DONATIONS FOR UKRAINE will be accepted through April 3 by The United Methodist Church of Frankston from anyone in the area.  Checks should be made payable to UMC Frankston and note that the donation is for Ukraine Relief. The donation by check may be placed in an envelope and dropped in the church offering plate or delivered to the church office at 161 S. Weldon Street during office hours. Donations of cash should not be mailed, but may be hand-delivered in an envelope with the donor’s name and a note that it is for Ukraine.  Church officials say that all donations will be deposited and a single check from the church will be sent to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) with 100 percent of the donations going to Ukraine Relief.

April 1, 2022

‘22-23 Middle School, High School

cheerleaders announced by FISD

Cheerleaders for 2022-2023 at Frankston Schools have been announced by school officials.

The cheerleaders for Frankston Middle School are Kamryn Allen, Zoe Beveridge, Jessie Ellis, Trinity Hallmark, Emma Hedger, Angela Hurtado Zavala, Maddison Jones, Desirae Lazo, Kira Pope, Jillian Reed and Emma Stinson.

Frankston High School cheerleaders announced are Katelyn Abbott, Emilie Batchelor, Lynsie Bizzell, Addisen Blackwell, Caitlyn Deupree, Ella Dowling, Ashley Fridinger, Jenna Gould, Julianna Gould, Leann Haney, Aryonna Hatton, Mariyah Hatton, Chloe Hedger, Briley Jimenez, Nyla Muhammad and Kaysie Nabors.

April 1, 2022

LAKE PALESTINE UMC TRUNK OR TREAT — This family was one of many who took advantage of the “Trunk or Treat” event at the Lake Palestine United Methodist Church, overlooking Lake Palestine on FM 315 near Chandler. Church officials report a good crowd of lake area youngsters and their parents and other relatives were on hand to provide a safe place for “trick or treaters” on Halloween, Oct. 31. — Courtesy Photo

Oct. 31,  2022

BOOTHS —  This was one of the  “Trunk or Treat” booths in the parking lot of the United Methodist Church of Frankston Monday evening, Oct. 31. Visitors at the nearby Downtown “Spooktacular” took advantage of the church booths. (See more pictures HERE )

— Citizen Photo

Downtown ‘Spooktacular’ attracts huge

gathering to celebrate Halloween here

Frankston area children, their parents and other relatives and friends enjoyed an evening of fun and organized “trick or treating” at the annual “Spooktacular” Monday, Oct 31 in downtown Frankston.

The event lived up to its reputation as a place for area children to do their normal Halloween thing in a safer environment, according to Monica Atwood, coordinator for the Frankston Economic Development Corp. sponsor.

Two booths, manned by folks dressed for Halloween, came away with prizes for their efforts at the event. Winning the first prize for “best booth” giving out candy was Pandora’s Box. Second place went to Silver Moon Saddles, Tack and Gifts. Both are Frankston businesses. Getting first and second for Best Costumes were the individuals manning those respective booths.

Besides those winners, there were many other individuals dressed in Halloween attire, both manning booths and throughout the visiting crowd.

Adding more atmosphere to the occasion was popular music supplied by a disk jockey (DJ), Jerry Parker, arranged by the EDC. Sponsors also set up a booth where children could pose for photos taken by parents.

Besides the booths lined up along Commerce Street, west of the Town Square City Park, the United Methodist Church of Frankston provided a “Trunk or Treat” event about two blocks to the east in the church parking lot. Spooktacular visitors took advantage of that as well.

Coordinator for the event, Mrs. Atwood, herself dressed for the occasion, was pleased with this year’s Spooktacular. It was an event she had started back in 2018 under the auspices of the Frankston EDC.

“I think this year’s Spooktacular was one of our best,” she said. “Everyone seemed to have a good time and that is one of the things the EDC wanted for the community at Halloween.”                                    (See Spooktacular video clip HERE  )

Oct. 31,  2022

‘Trunk or Treat’ event scheduled

at Lake Palestine UMC on Oct 31

A “Trunk or Treat” event will be held on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31 at the Lake Palestine United Methodist Church on FM 315 overlooking Lake Palestine near Chandler.

The event from 5:30 to 7 p.m. is designed to give “trick or treaters” a safe alternative to their traditional Halloween activities.

Area youngsters and their parents are being invited to take advantage of this Halloween opportunity.

On Sunday, Oct. 30, the church enjoyed a Potluck Lunch following the 10:15 a.m. Hymn Sing Sunday worship service with a special guest at the piano.

Oct. 31,  2022

Truck or Treat set Oct. 31

at Methodist church here

A Trunk or Treat event has been scheduled on Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31 at the United Methodist Church of Frankston.

The event will.be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the church at 110 S.. Weldon Street in Frankston.

Area children and adults are invited to come and take advantage of this occasion to help insure the safety of those who want to replace or supplement their “trick or treat” activities on Halloween night. The event is free and open to anyone in the area.

Oct. 31,  2022

Halloween ‘Spooktacular’ in downtown

Frankston for area residents on Oct. 31

It’s almost time for Frankston’s annual “Spooktacular”, scheduled  every year on Halloween, Oct. 31 downtown on the square, this year from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Economic Development Corp. Board member Monica Atwood started the Spooktacular in 2018 to give area kids a safe place to “trick of treat” without dodging moving vehicles. She has organized it ever since, with the exception of 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic would not allow it.

Mrs. Atwood said this year, there will be a DJ, display to take photos, calf roping dummy and roping instructor and plans to have a face painter.

Local businesses and other community organizations will be invited to set up booths and tables full of candy and other goodies for young “trick or treaters”.

Area children are expected to come in costumes and go from booth to booth throughout the spooky gathering. Also adults customarily dress up and join the activities, taking many pictures for sharing.

The event is designed to get the whole community involved in the activities.

Mrs. Atwood says any individual or organization is welcome to create a booth and give away their own candy.

There will be  $100 first prizes and $50 second prizes for best costume and for best display by a “vendor” handing out candy, she said.

Commerce Street and West Railroad Street will be blocked off to through traffic, the organizer said.

The EDC board is inviting area adults and children to come and be a part of this local Halloween celebration event.

“From the buzz I’m hearing, the vendor displays are getting bigger and more interactive,” Mrs. Atwood said.

Oct. 29,  2022

Hilltop Baptist Fall Festival

slated Oct. 29 at Berryville

Hilltop Baptist Church in Berryville will have a Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. designed for area families.

There will be food, lots of fun and games, face painting, pumpkin painting, and a  bounce house.

Hilltop Baptist Church is located at 11269 C R 4117 in Berryville.

Church members invite families to come out and enjoy an evening of fun, filled with food, prizes, and candy.

Oct. 25,  2022

Heather Glaspie appointed to vacant

Place 1 on the Frankston ISD board

Frankston School trustees appointed Heather Glaspie to Place 1 on the board on Tuesday, Oct. 25 in a special meeting after a series of interviews with applicants, according to a report by Supt. Nicci Cook.

The Place 1 seat became vacant after the resignation of Sheila Smith, effective Oct. 15, was accepted by the trustees. Mrs. Smith had been serving on the Board of Trustees since her election in May 2021.

The appointee will serve for the next six months until the May 2023 election when she has the option to seek election to serve the remaining two years on the unexpired term, Supt. Cook said.

The new trustee is a graduate of Frankston High School and has two children attending Frankston Elementary School, the superintendent said.

The Board conducted six interviews with applicants after they invited interested community members to sign up on the school website.

Oct. 24,  2022

Early voting in Nov. 8 General

Election continues thru Nov. 4

Early voting by personal appearance of registered voters in the Nov. 8 General Election continues thru Nov. 4 in Anderson and Henderson counties at locations in each county, according to information from the election offices.

Area voters in Henderson and Anderson counties may access sample ballots for appropriate voting boxes by accessing the county websites on the adjacent sidebar.

Candidates opposed include federal, state and county positions and a trustee election for the LaPoynor Indpendent School District and the Neches Independent School District. In the Coffee City Council election, there are oppositon candidates for one place. The candidates are listed on the Sample Ballots for the respective voting boxes or precincts. Unopposed candidates are declared elected.

In Anderson County, there is only one location designated, the Anderson County Courthouse Annex at 703 N. Mallard, Suite 103A-103B, in Palestine.

From Oct. 24-28, the location will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Then on Saturday, Oct. 29, the location will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 30, voters may cast early ballots from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. From Monday, Oct. 31 thru Friday, Nov. 4, early voters may cast ballots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m

In Henderson County, there will be five locations at which early votes may be cast, according to the Notice of General Election.

In Athens, early voting by personal appearance will be at The Texan – A Landmark Venue, at 209 E. Tyler St.

From Oct. 24-28, the Athens location will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 29, the hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 30 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. On Monday thru Friday, Oct. 31 thru Nov. 4, the early voting location will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

In eastern Henderson County, early votes may be cast at LaRue at the Henderson County LaRue Complex, 9551 County Road 4719, at the First United Methodist Church at 204 State Highway 31 West in Chandler, and at the Faith Baptist Church,  13567 TX-31 in Brownsboro.

The other early voting location is in western Henderson County at Seven Points. Details on dates and hours may be obtained on the county website accessible in the adjacent sidebar.

The LaRue early voting location will be open from Oct. 24-28 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from Monday, Oct. 31 thru Friday, Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Chandler location will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 24-28 and on Monday, Oct. 31 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Then on Nov. 1-3 the location will be receiving early voters from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday, Nov. 4 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. At Brownsboro, early votes may be cast on Oct. 27 and 28 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Nov. 3 from 7 a.m to 7 p.m. and Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, the General Election will be held and area voters may go to their appropriate voting box to cast their ballots.

Voters in Frankston Box 18 will cast ballots at the Frankston Courthouse Annex, 320 S. Commerce. Patrons who reside in LaPoynor ISD and Neches ISD and vote in Box 18 will receive ballots to cast in their trustee elections.

Those who vote in Box 16 and those who reside in the Neches ISD will be voting at the Neches First Baptist Church, 200 Anderson Street.

Voters who are designated to vote in Box 23 and those who reside in LaPoynor ISD, Cayuga ISD and Neches ISD will cast appropriate ballots at the Pisgah Baptist Church, 11401 E. FM 837, in the Brushy Creek area.

There are three voting precincts in the Henderson County area west of Frankston. Box 4LP voters will cast ballots at the Coffee City Community Center, 7019 Pleasant Ridge Rd. Box 4MS will be located at the Moore Station Community Center, 4720 CR 4319, LaRue. Boxes 4NLP-4SE will be at the Henderson County LaRue Complex, 9551 CR 4719, LaRue. Ballots will be available at those boxes for those who vote in the LaPoynor ISD, Coffee City, Brownsboro ISD and City of Athens elections.

Sample ballots for each of the boxes in the Frankston area of Anderson and Henderson counties as well as more details on the election are available at the respective websites.

Oct. 22,  2022

Lord’s Acre Country Store, Auction

scheduled by UMC Frankston Oct. 22

The 37th annual Lord’s Acre Harvest Festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston, 161 South Weldon, at East Main.

The Festival is the church’s main fund-raising activity. Because of members’ and other community supporters’ participation, the Festival has helped the church realize many goals, church officials say. They describe the event as a day of fun, food and fellowship for all who attend.

The day will begin at 9 a.m. when the Country Store opens, stocked with homemade or newly purchased goods church members have donated. Some examples of items to be found are jams, jellies, breads, pies, cakes, relish, preserves, decorative home accents, toys for children, Christmas items and casserole covers. Everything in the Country Store sells for $35 or less, according to the sponsors.

At 10:30 a.m., the popular auction will begin. Items up for bidding are also homemade or newly purchased and donated by church members. These items are valued in excess of $35 and usually are sold for as much as bidders desire to pay.

Some examples from past years’ auctions include porch swings, barbecue smokers, pecans, oil paintings, weekend trips, dolls, seasonal wreaths and decorations, cap racks, quilts, afghans and a year of desserts. A wide variety of items are usually available for bidding at the auction, sponsors say.

The Food Committee will be serving coffee, canned drinks, desserts and a few breakfast items. The Covenant Cookers will be selling barbecued brisket sandwiches and chips. These will be available around 10:30 a.m. until gone. Other briskets will be sold through the auction.

The Lord’s Acre Committee, headed by Karen Faulkner, has urged church members and other Frankston area residents to make plans to attend this year’s Lord’s Acre Harvest Festival and take advantage of the opportunities for purchasing a favorite item, enjoying food and meeting and greeting friends and neighbors.

Oct. 21,  2022

Seniors, Band Sweetheart, Beau

honored in ceremonies Oct. 21

Senior Frankston Indians, cheerleaders and Mighty Indian Band members were honored in Senior Night pre-game ceremonies Friday night, Oct. 21 and the 2022 Band Sweetheart and Beau were announced during halftime of the Frankston-Beckville football game.

Seniors honored include athlete Benton Allen, athlete Ke’aundre Barnes, cheerleader and athlete Lynsie Bizzell, athlete Jared Cook, band member Natalie Crawley, band member Ryan Derr, Career and Technology student Madison Dollarhide, athlete and band member Matthew Fridinger, athlete Christian Hernandez, athlete and band member Ramiro Hernandez, band member Kaitlyn James, band member Savannah Lindsey, athlete Kody Loebig, band member Jordan Medlin, band member Abigail Menjivar, athlete Jeremiah Mitchell, band member Jaycee Nabors, band member and CTE student Brady Nolan, band member Noah Priestly, band member Henry Suggs, athlete Logan Taylor and band member Sammy Wilcox.

Honored at halftime were Mighty Indian Band Sweetheart Jaycee Nabors and Beau Henry Suggs.

The seniors and the band honorees were accompanied by parents, relatives and other sponsors.

Oct. 17,  2022

FISD board accepts resignation

of Place 1 trustee, eyes successor

Frankston School trustees Monday, Oct. 17 voted to accept the resignation of Place 1 board member, Sheila Smith, and decided to appoint her successor rather than order a special election to select a Place 1 trustee, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

Mrs. Smith has been serving on the Board of Trustees since her election in May 2021 and her resignation was effective on Oct. 15.

The board expressed their appreciation for her service in a statement:

“Thank you, Sheila Smith, for your leadership, commitment to our students, staff and community, and your support of our mission to continually strive to improve the education system for our students.”

The board will be announcing later the interim appointee to Place 1 to serve until the May 2023 trustee election.

In other action, the board voted to renew the District of Inovation Plan for FISD adopted first in 2018. The plan states the following in its introductory statement:

“The option to become a District of Innovation (DOI), became a reality during the 84th Legislative Session in House Bill 1842. This statute gives traditional independent school districts most of the flexibilities available to Texas’ open-enrollment charter schools. The district’s ability to exempt itself from burdensome state mandates will support our Vision of ensuring that each child learns, grows, and achieves to their potential. Our Board of Trustees has been the guiding force behind our effort to become a District of Innovation so that the district Vision may be realized by achieving each of our district goals.”

The board decided to postpone action on an intruder detection report by Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC) audit until an audit has occurred.

They approved unanimously the purchase of Pelican Conversion Thermostats by Ideal Impact but took no action on approval of a purchase of security software due to the lack of a second to a motion.

Early in the meeting, a public hearing was held on the Financial Intergrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) report for FISD.

Frankston ISD received a superior rating, determined by 20 indicators, with a score of 96 out of 100 possible points. Highlights of the report indicated that FISD was in compliance with the payment terms of all debt agreements and made timely payments to the Teacher Retirement System (TRS), the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other government agencies. The 2021-2022 report was based on fiscal year 2020-2021 data.

The trustees also reviewed the Board Outcome Goal Progress Monitoring Report. The charts reviewed are shown HERE .

The board unanimously approved the Consent Agenda which included the Quarterly Investment Report, the English as a Second Language (ESL) annual program evaluation, the appraisal calendar with revised appraisers, revisions to account cards and the 2022-2023 District Improvement Plan shown HERE .

Principals gave reports on activities and made announcements for their campuses.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens recognized seventh grade Students of the Month Atley Hanks and Desirae Lazo. Enrollment reported was 184 with 53 sixth graders, 63 seventh graders and 68 eighth graders.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell announced the Outstanding Indians in the fourth grade. They are Evan Bristow, Christopher Souza and Karson Wilson. Current enrollment was 368.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported on activities and achievements and reported current enrollment of 245, including 71 ninth graders, 69 tenth graders, 51 eleventh graders and 54 twelfth graders.

In the Finance and Facilities report by Business Manager Randi Westbrook, information on a recycling grant, sound system speakers at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium and Robert Loper Coliseum, auditorium lights, a 30-year roofing plan and middle school plumbing lines.

Supt. Cook confirmed campus enrollment figures reported by principals and said  current district enrollment was 797 compared to 813 on Oct. 18, 2021. She said the Oct. 29, 2021 snapshot enrollment was 808.

The superintendent announced that dedication of the Robert Loper Coliseum has been scheduled for Dec. 8 during the FHS Basketball Tournament. She said the December board meeting will be on Monday, Dec. 5.

She congratulated the Frankston Mighty Indians Band on results of the UIL Marching Contest and noted that October is Principal Appreciation Month, singling out FISD principals Melanie Blackwell, Melissa Wimmer, Cindy Owens, Jeff Teague and Edgar Rodriguez.

She also recognized Frankston Fishing team members who placed 13th out of 27 teams at a recent tournament. She also congratulated the boys Cross Country team, the Maidens volleyball team and the Indians football team for their accomplishments.

Oct. 11,  2022

Goodman takes oath for Place 5

Council vacancy; grant budgeted

Mike Goodman, local businessman, received the oath of office as Council member for Place 5 on the Frankston City Council on Monday, Oct. 11 at the regular meeting, according to unofficial minutes submitted by City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

Goodman takes a position formerly held by the late Elmer Gene Birdwell on the Council.

The Council proceeded to amend the 2022-2023 city budget to include the newly appointed grant money of $108,750 to be used to help finance several upcoming special projects budgeted by the city.

Much of the meeting dealt with Council consideration of a number of routine matters:

— Approved a replat of Block 43 at the corner of Mary and North Francis streets.

— Selected Frentress Engineering to complete project implementation for the City of Frankston’s 2023-2024 Texas Community Development block grant program funding administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture, Resolution 10112022.

— Selected Grantworks to complete application and project implementation for the City of Frankston’s 2023-2024 Texas Community Development block grant program funded and administered through the Texas Department of Agriculture, Resolution 10112022A.

— Appointed Acker & Company Certified Public Accounts to conduct the upcoming annual audit for fiscal year 2021-2022.

— Appointed Judge Gary Thomas as City Judge for the fiscal year 2022-2023.

— Approve the entering of an annual Interlocal Agreement between the City and Anderson County for various governmental functions and services.

— Approved a Job Description for the Code Enforcement Officer position.

— Approved the artwork for a crosswalk extending from the corner of the Kathleen Cook Fitzgerald Museum to the Town Square City Park sidewalk.

The Council also heard an update from City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith regarding property maintenance letters mailed.

Following reports by staff, the Council heard announcements regarding events, including the Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat on Oct. 31 and the annual Lord’s Acre Auction on Oct. 22.

Oct. 11,  2022

   Local Retail Office Manager

   appointed by Austin Bank

Jeff Austin III, Chairman of the Board, recently announced the promotion of Austin Bank employee Tana Beaver to Retail Office Manager of the Bank’s Frankston office.

The promotion was approved at the September 2022 Board of Directors meeting at the Austin Bank corporate office in Jacksonville.

“Tana is a true professional who is dedicated to giving our employees and customers exceptional service,” said Austin. “We are proud to have her as a member of the Austin Bank team.”

Beaver joined Austin Bank in July 2015 as a Teller at the Jacksonville South location. She later served as a Floater Teller working in offices throughout the Bank’s Southwest Market.

Prior to moving into her new role, she was the Teller Operations Supervisor at the Jacksonville Main Drive Thru. Beaver had many years of supervisory experience in other industries before she began her banking career. She shares that experience as a Mentor to new employees through the Bank’s mentorship program.

A graduate of Troup High School, Beaver holds a degree in Business Communication from Jacksonville College. She and her husband, Billy, reside in Jacksonville and have two daughters and five grandsons.

Oct. 8,  2022

SQUARE FAIR BOOTHS — A large crowd of residents, former residents and visitors browsed through the many booths in the Town Square City Park in observance of the 46th Frankston Homecoming and Square Fair. The celebration began at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium with an Indians football team victory and the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. — Citizen Photo

Huge crowd attends Square Fair fest

in downtown Frankston on Oct. 8

A huge throng of residents, former residents and visitors crowded downtown Frankston, its Town Square City Park and surrounding areas Saturday, Oct. 8 for the 46th annual Square Fair after a Homecoming Ceremony and football game on Friday night, Oct. 7.

Fans of Frankston High School were still celebrating the big 61-20 win over Big Sandy and  crowning of the 2022 Homecoming King and Queen.

In a parade which began at 10 a.m. on Main Street were the FHS Band, several floats and other entries and cars carrying the King and Queen and their Homecoming Court.

The floats were those designed by classes at Frankston School, many loaded with youngsters whose parents viewed and took pictures from streetside.

See Photos of Homecoming Parade, Square Fair HERE

Special participants in the Homecoming Parade were the King and Queen selected on Friday night at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium. They are Benton Allen and Ja’Shalyn Hatton, seniors.

Other members of the Homecoming Court in the parade were 9th Graders Jenna Gould, Morgan Redic, Adrian Donnell, Tristan McCoy; 10th Graders Aryonna Hatton, Kaysie Nabors, Carson Allen, Tyler Rogers; 11th Graders Madeline Grier, Emmely Hernandez, Kaymon Davis, Ryan Harper; and 12th Graders Lynsie Bizzell, Jaycee Nabors, Carly Willits, Christopher Hale, Kody Loebig and Caleb Ramsey.

Also featured in the parade were Little Mr. and Miss Square Fair Tucker Stringer and Sailor Morris and Tiny Mr. and Miss Square Fair Braden Morris and Olivia Allen.

The parade was led with flagbearers on horseback, Deb Edmondson with the American flag and Kensy Matthews with the Texas flag. Prior to their arrival in the parade, a prayer was delivered by Duane Nesmith, associate pastor of First Baptist Church of Frankston. Popular local singer Brooks Atwood sang the “Star Spangled Banner".

Oct. 1,  2022

Frankston Homecoming, Square Fair

slated on Friday, Saturday Oct. 7-8

Preparations are underway for the traditional Frankston Homecoming and Square Fair scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 7-8, according to school and community organizers.

This will be the 46th Square Fair, started in 1975. Its regular schedule was missed on two occasions, the latest in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2018, the Square Fair, due to rain, was rescheduled for December when it was held in conjunction with Christmas in the Park.

In the pre-game Homecoming ceremony Friday night, Oct. 7, Ja’Shalyn Hatton was crowned Queen and Benton Allen King of the Homecoming at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium,  following presentation of the Homecoming Court.

The Homecoming Court included 9th Graders Jenna Gould, Morgan Redic, Adrian Donnell, Tristan McCoy; 10th Graders Aryonna Hatton, Kaysie Nabors, Carson Allen, Tyler Rogers; 11th Graders Madeline Grier, Emmely Hernandez, Kaymon Davis, Ryan Harper; and 12th Graders Lynsie Bizzell, Ja’Shalyn Hatton, Jaycee Nabors, Carly Willits, Benton Allen, Christopher Hale, Kody Loebig and Caleb Ramsey. (See photos of Homecoming Court selections HERE )

A Homecoming Bonfire was held on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Lenore Berry Ballpark in Berryvillle. A large crowd attended this second annual event, sponsored by the Lenore Berry Sports Assn.. (See Photos of the Bonfire HERE )

Coordinator Jessica Tatum said that on the next day, Saturday, Oct. 8, the traditional Square Fair will get underway in downtown Frankston at 10 a.m. with a Homecoming Parade led by the Frankston High School band.

In the parade are expected to be a number of floats, some from school classes and some others. Also in the parade will be the newly crowned FHS Homecoming King and Queen and their Court as well as the selections for Little Mr. and Miss Square Fair and Tiny Mr. and Miss Square Fair. Some floats have already committed to be in the parade while more may be planning to reserve spots later.

Ms Tatum said that West Main Street, West Railroad Street and South Commerce Street will be closed to vehicle traffic from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. to accommodate Square Fair activities.

As is customary, booths from community organizations offering food, crafts and other products and services will be spaced inside the Town Square City Park. Ms Tatum said some booths have been reserved, but she invites and expects more to reserve spots during the week prior to the event.

Tammy Bostick, entertainment coordinator, said that local entertainment will be provided throughout the day beginning at 11 a.m. Listed as entertainers are Butch Fulton, Brandi Derr, The Lykins Family, Elizabeth Derr and Gracey Ginn.

Further updates are expected to follow as the dates of the events draw closer.

The Square Fair is a community event, sponsored by the Square Fair Committee, established at the first Square Fair in the mid-1970s.

The historic event was started as part of the Frankston Bicentennial celebration, headed by the late J.C. Hicks, a former FISD superintendent. Part of the Bicentennial Committee was the Festival Division. It was composed of Chairperson Jerry Gideon, former FISD superintendent, and members Rilea Cook, the late Celexie Pierson, Sharon Atwood, former band director Pat Stringer, June McLane Brown, Alana Dickerson Moore, Tawana Blair, the late Dorthella Lewis, Kay Ellis Querry and Mary McLane Phillips. Mrs. Atwood was the first Square Fair Coordinator, a position she held for 15 years, during the infancy of the event.

Oct. 1,  2022

COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR — Carter Bloodcare was on hand to receive blood donations and Maxwell Pharmacy, Frankston was giving influenza vaccine to some visitors at the Community Health Fair sponsored by The United Methodist Church of Frankston on Saturday, Oct. 1.

— Citizen Photo

22nd Community Health Fair held

Oct. 1 at UMC Family Life Center

Area health care providers offered a whole range of services to area residents at the 22nd annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston, 161 S. Weldon Street at the intersection of East Main Street.

The event is sponsored by the United Methodist Women and is free and open to the public.

Maxwell’s Pharmacy  provided Flu vaccines.

Family Circle of Care Mobile Clinic were to have walk-up COVID-19 vaccinations.

Christus Ross Breast Center had the mobile bus providing mammograms, and appointments may be scheduled by calling (903) 606-5433, select option 3.

Carter BloodCare held a blood drive during the event. Anyone eligible was invited to schedule an appointment for a donation. Those who have contracted COVID-19 and are fully recovered were eligible to donate blood 28 days after all symptoms have disappeared.

Appointments could be scheduled online or call (903) 363-0400.

The following providers were scheduled to be on hand to help with your health needs:

FAYS (Family and Youth Success Program) MH (Mental Health), Amerigy Energy, Carter BloodCare, Catholic Charities, Ross Breast Center, CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, Crisis Center of Anderson and Cherokee Counties, East Texas Honey, Family Circle of Care, Fitness Center UMC Frankston, Frankston Family Dentistry, Harbor Hospice, Humana Insurance, Kip Sutherland Medicare Advocate, and Lake Palestine Animal Hospital.

Additional providers scheduled were Legacy at Jacksonville, Maximus, Maxwell Pharmacy, N8 Wellness & Therapy – Dr. Donovan Thomas, DC, Oak Street Health Medicare Doctors, Primrose Health Solutions, Rainbow House Food Pantry, Renew You Cryotherapy, Ross Breast Center, Texas WIC, Twin Oaks Health & Rehab, United Healthcare, UT Health Frankston, and UT Tyler Health Science Center.

Sept. 19, 2022

FISD trustees reorganize, elect

2022-2023 officers on Sept. 19

The Frankston ISD Board of Trustees reorganized and elected officers for 2022-2023 during the Monday, Sept. 19 meeting of the trustees, according to a report by Supt. Nicci Cook.

Elected as president of the board was Dustin Holladay, president; Junior Mascorro, Vice President; and Brian Merritt, Secretary.

The Consent Agenda, which included the 2022-2023 Anderson County Adjunct Faculty Request and revision to account cards, was passed unanimously.

Trustees also reviewed an overview of progress on the Progress Monitoring Report of Board Outcome Goals. Charts of progress on the goals may be seen HERE .

A presentation was given by Laurie Elliott, Loan Star Governance Board coach hired by the board. After the presentation, the Superintendent Guardrails Progress Measures Aligned to the Student Outcome Goals and the Progress Monitoring Calendar were approved by the board unanimously.

The trustees also approved installation of interior security locks but tabled purchase of security software.

After consideration of purchase of an automatic athletic field stripper, a motion to purchase failed due to lack of a second.

In other action the trustees unanimously voted to nominate board member J.R. Newman for a spot on the Henderson County Appraisal District Board of Directors.

Reports from campus principals outlined their activities and enrollment.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported that a flag presented by the district congressman and flown over the U.S. Capitol was raised in front of the middle school.

She said a robotics club has been started for any sixth through 12th graders. Building will begin every Monday after school, beginning on Sept. 26 and students will get to travel and compete in the Region 7 competition in the spring, the principal said.

Students of the Month in the Eighth grade were announced. They are Wyatt Reed and Harli Halfpenny.

Middle school enrollment reported was 187 with 53 sixth graders, 64 seventh graders and 70 eighth graders.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported on “Outstanding Indians” in the fifth grade. They are Maya Avila, Emma Church and Kenzie Davis.

Elementary school enrollment reported was 371.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported on various activities. He said enrollment totaled 249 with 72 ninth graders, 69 tenth graders, 53 eleventh graders an 55 twelfth graders.

Supt. Cook confirmed campus enrollments and said total enrollment was 807 compared to 814 on Sept. 20, 2021 and 808 on the Oct. 29, 2021 snapshot date.

The superintendent said a final date for a dedication for the Robert Loper Coliseum is under further study. She also told the board about results of a preliminary staff survey on a proposed 4-day school week for 2023-2024. She said the staff survey indicated that the conversation should be continued. The proposal will be submitted to the District Advisory Committee to determine if there will be any further distribution of the survey, the superintendent indicated.

Sept. 15, 2022

Area cities get sales tax

allocations in September

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the September 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

Frankston, Berryville, Cuney and Poynor reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $44,078.88 for September   compared to a $38,409.22 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 14.76 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $383,255.77 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $330,267.20, a gain of 16.04 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,796.94 for September compared to a $2,236.55 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 25.05 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $25,798.35 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $22,243.72, a gain of 15.98 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $21,325.05 for September  compared to a $22,573.15 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 5.52 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $191,276.24 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $191,962.27, a decrease of 0.35 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,292.32 for September compared to a $3,192.79 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 3.11 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $31,210.64 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $27,083.47, a gain of 15.23 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,228.13 for September compared to a $1,399.87 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 12.26 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $10,864.55 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $10,835.22, an increase of 0.27 percent.

Sept. 13, 2022

Frankston Council okays 2022

property tax rate, levy Sept. 13

The Frankston City Council voted to adopt a 2022 property tax rate of $0.346551 per $100 valuation and adopted an appropriate ordinance levying the tax rate for property within the City of Frankston, according to unofficial minutes from the Sept. 13 Council meeting submitted by City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The Council had earlier approved a General Fund budget of $1,367,951.46, which would be partially funded from property tax revenue.

The Council also unanimously approved an ordinance lowering the speed limit during Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot) construction on U.S. 175 in Frankston.

After hearing a presentation from J. Brinker of Apex concerning fiber optic internet for the City and its benefits and discussion by the Council, a motion to contact the city attorney and conduct research on the proposed service was passed unanimously.

During the public forum, Garrett and Carey Moynihan updated the Council on their recycling efforts. They indicated they had presented the program to Frankston ISD and plan to move forward with a grant through the school to create a recycle center.

After hearing reports from city staff and announcements including the annual Homecoming and Square Fair on Oct. 8, the meeting was adjourned.

Sept. 13, 2022

Frankston Council to consider tax

rate for 2022 in Sept. 13 meeting

The City of Frankston will hold a meeting to consider adopting a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2022 at 6:30 p.m.Tuesday, Sept. 13 at the City Hall Council Chamber at 240 W. Main Street, according to a notice posted recently.

The proposed tax rate is $0.346551 per $100 valuation and would not increase total property taxes in the City, according to the notice.

Sept. 13, 2022

Frankston EDC board makes plans

for upcoming events in downtown

Directors of the Frankston Economic Development Corp., in their September meeting, made plans for  events coming up later this year in the city and agreed to consider circulating a questionnaire to citizens to Target Economic Priorities, according to minutes submitted by Kelli Landreth-Smith, secretary.

In an update on the Spooktacular, it was decided that the event will be held on Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in downtown Frankston. Monica Atwood was given permission to pass out bags of candy to people with booths.

The directors discussed additional Christmas lights for the downtown area in preparation for the annual Christmas Festival set for Dec. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. Barbara Simpson said she was looking into hiring carolers for the festival and informed the board that it would cost around $850 to hire them. It was reported that the current bid for the Christmas lights for the downtown area is $4,365, without additional lights. Board members approved the current bid for the lights.

No action was taken on donating older Christmas decorations and renting/buying new ones. Also no action was taken on a budget for Christmas in the Park.

The board discussed the citizen questionnaire and voted to add suggestions to the questionnaire for consideration at the October meeting

Large turnout for East Texas Food Bank Distribution Sept. 13

— Citizen Photo

Sept. 13, 2022

East Texas Food Bank to offer

new Frankston Mobile Pantry

TYLER — The East Texas Food Bank (ETFB) will offer a new Mobile Pantry monthly with fresh produce and meat in Frankston in Anderson County on the second Tuesday of each month, from 10 a.m. to noon at The United Methodist Church of Frankston located at 161 Weldon Street.

“Anderson County has a great need for food assistance as 13.9 percent of the residents are food insecure or 8,060 people, according to the latest data from Feeding America’s Map the Meal  Gap,” said Dennis Cullinane, CEO of the East Texas Food Bank. “Studies show a direct link to good nutrition and health outcomes so the ability to offer more vegetables and fruits will greatly benefit the residents.”

The East Texas Food Bank currently has seven partner agencies that operate food pantries in Frankston, Elkhart and Palestine. There are also special programs to help seniors with a monthly box of food and children receive backpacks of food through their school. To find out more information about the different programs in Anderson County visit our website at www.EastTexasfoodbank.org  and click on Find Food.

The drive-through Mobile Pantry is open to anyone needing food and there are no ID requirements.

About the East Texas Food Bank

Established in 1988, the East Texas Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief nonprofit in East Texas covering 26 counties. ETFB provides over 25 million meals each year to 200 partner agencies and feeding programs. Our mission is to fight hunger and feed hope in East Texas. For more information, visit www.EastTexasfoodbank.org .  

Aug. 23, 2022

Local area Troop 328 youth earns

Eagle Scout Rank as of July 30

Scout Troop 328, chartered by The United Methodist Church of Frankston, has a new Eagle Scout, as of July 30, a church spokesperson announced.

The new Eagle Scout is William Ethan Ogg, son of James and Wynona Ogg of Berryville. The junior at Frankston High School has served as a volunteer fireman with the Berryville Volunteer Fire Department where he recently earned the official rank of firefighter, the spokesperson said.

Both of his parents are veterans, retired from the U.S Marine Corps and the spokesperson believes that his older brother, Levy, is currently serving in the Marines.

Upon graduation from high school, the new Eagle Scout plans to attend a firefighter academy so he can become a fulltime firefighter, according to the announcement.

Aug. 16, 2022

Frankston City Council approves final

2022-23 General Fund, W&S budgets

The Frankston City Council on Tuesday, Aug. 16 approved a 2022-2023 General Fund budget of $1,367,951.46 and a Water and Sewer Fund budget of $771,578.96 following a workshop at City Hall, according to a report from City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The General Fund budget for the City Hall projects expenses of $111,200 and payroll of $97,565.33.

The budget for the Police Department includes $200,939.53 in expenses and $455,869.35 for payroll.

Municipal Court budget expenses were projected at $25,650 and payroll at $104,313.

Budgeted for the Frankston Volunteer Fire Department was $54,700 for expenses. There is no payroll.

The Frankston Depot Library and Museum budget for expense was $20,400. There is no payroll.

Budgeted for the Street Department was $258,200 for expenses and $34,114.25 for payroll.

Frankston Parks was allocated $5,000.

In the Water and Sewer Fund budget, $414,000 was projected for expenses and $357,994.36 for payroll.

Mayor Tommy Carr advised the Council about the need for a part-time code enforcement officer and the Council agreed to adding that expense to the City Hall budget.

After a request by Council member Gerald Hall, the Council added $5,000 to the City Hall budget to cover expense to create a command center for use by FEMA and other agencies in a crisis situation. The center would include eight computer and phone drops in the Council Room, according to Hall.

It was reported that a large portion of the budgets are from grants and city reserve accounts to cover a large generator for water pumps, installation of a generator at City Hall, an upcoming street project and a new car for the Police Department. The City expects to receive more grant money after Oct. 1 to help cover some of the special projects.

The Council approved the 2022-23 Fiscal Budget as well a $2,400 annual raise for all fulltime and part-time employees to help with the rising costs prompted by inflation.

Aug. 15, 2022

FISD trustees okay budget, tax rate

for 2022-23 after hearing on Aug. 15

Frankston ISD trustees Monday, Aug. 15 approved a 2022-23 budget of $10,026,167 and a total ad valorem property tax rate of $1.203553 per $100 valuation, down from the current tax rate of $1.259 for 2021-22, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The budget anticipates projected revenue of $3,166,500 from local sources and $6,859,667 from the state.

The lower property tax rate was partly made possible by a $42,152,244 increase in taxable values for property in the district. In 2021, the values were $319,895,599 while 2022 values are $362,047,843.

The overall property tax rate approved includes  $0.9429 per $100 valuation for maintenance and operation and $0.260653 for the interest and sinking fund used to service bonded indebtedness. FISD anticipates a bond payment of $781,928, up from the annual bond payment of  $772,875.

The trustees approved the budget and tax rate after a public hearing held prior to the regular meeting of the board.

By categories, the budget allocates $7,434,907 for salaries in the new year to meet the board goal of retaining world class educators. It is up from $6,949,788 in 2021-22 when teacher salaries were subsidized from federal funds in the Elementary and Secondary Emergency Relief II (ESSER II) American Rescue Act program related to extra expenses from the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to that program’s availability in 2020-21, the salaries budget was $7,058,614.

The Instructional budget anticipates expenditures of $6,325,171 in 2022-23, up from $5,895,597 in 2021-22 with increases designed to enhance student achievement and the College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) program.

The Extra-curricular budget anticipates $743,604 in 2022-23 compared to $706,604 in 2021-22. Increases anticipate increased expenditures for post-district activities and pay for officials at athletic events.

The Security Budget allocates $200,000 in expenses for 2022-23 compared to $68,000 in 2021-22, to provide additional funds to enhance school security measures. Among recommended security measures approved by the board are student and employee identification badges; all FISD exterior doors locked, including campus entrances; new locks on interior doors where students or adults are present; bullet-resistant film on exterior glass in common areas; and exploration of gun detection security camera software.

The Facilities Budget anticipates $1,613,312 in expenditures in 2022-23, compared to $1,326,369 in the 2021-22 budget.

Budgeted under SB22: Statutorily Required Public Notices, was $5,000, the same as the year before. It was reported that actual expenses in this category in 2021-22 was $2,912.78.

Under HB1495: Advocacy Spending, $1,813 was budgeted.

The budget for the Cafeteria will be set, based on free breakfast for all students and student lunch prices of $2.95 per meal. Part of revenue is derived from non-local sources.

Other action besides approval of the budget and tax rate included unanimous approval for continuation of property and casualty insurance coverage from Hibbs Hallmark. The board also approved the appointment of J.R. Newman as delegate and Junior Mascorro as alternate to serve as board representatives for the Texas Assn. of School Boards (TASB) Delegate Assembly.

Consent agenda items approved were budget amendments for the 2021-22 budget; resolution for attendance accounting purposes; TEA Innovative Courses for grades 7-12 for 2022-23; courses for 7th and 8th graders for high school credit for 2022-23; and School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) members for the 2022-23 school year. Details on any of these approved consent items may be obtained by contacting the school office.

More in article below.

Aug. 15, 2022

FISD receives ‘A’ rating by TEA

in 2021-22 accountability report

The Frankston ISD received an “A” rating with 10 distinctions from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in its 2021-22 Accountability Report, Frankston trustees learned Monday, Aug. 15, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The distinctions are ELA/Reading, Mathematics, Comparative Academic Growth, Postsecondary Readiness and Comparative Closing the Gaps in high school; Mathematics in middle school; and Mathematics, Science, Postsecondary Readiness and Comparative Closing the Gaps in elementary school.

The trustees also learned of opening day enrollment figures and other information from campus principals and the superintendent. They also learned of revisions and content of the Employee, Student and Extra-curricular Handbooks.

The Employee Handbook had changes regard notification of parents regarding qualifications, medical certification, harassment of students and public information on private devices.

The Student Handbook had revisions regarding instruction of the prevention of child abuse; family violence, dating violence and sex trafficking; parent access to online learning systems and financial aid requirements. There were no changes in the Extra-Curricular Handbook for 2022-23.

The Student Handbook can be seen HERE and the Extra-curricular Handbook HERE .

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blakewell reported on campus activities and said current enrollment was 377.

Frankston Middle School Principal Cindy Owens featured new MS employees, student perfect attendance and the MS accountability rating summary. She said total enrollment was 189, with 53 sixth graders, 65 seventh graders and 71 eighth graders.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported on new employees on his campus and various activities in the early days of the new school year. He reported total enrollment was 247 with 71 ninth graders 69 tenth graders, 54 eleventh graders and 53 twelfth graders.

Supt. Cook confirmed the enrollment on the three campuses and said total district enrollment is 813. She said that compared with 794 at start of school in August 2021. The district had 808 students on the snapshot date of Oct. 29, 2021.

Aug. 15, 2022

LITTLE FREE PANTRY — Members of the Lake Palestine United Methodist Church, overlooking Lake Palestine, are shown restocking the Little Free Pantry, which is available to provide food for those who need it for one reason or another. The church finances purchase of the food through donations and projects like the recent garage sale. — Citizen Photo

Aug. 15, 2022

Area cities get sales  tax

allocations in August

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the August 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville and Poynor among  area cities over the prior period last year.

All area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $49,688.28 for August   compared to a $43,267.48 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 14.83 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $339,176.89 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $291,857.98 a gain of 16.21 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,915.88 for August compared to a $2,613.98 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 11.54 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $23,001.41 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $20,007.17, a gain of 14.96 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $22,996.34 for August  compared to a $23,727.26 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 3.08 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $169,951.19 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $169,389.12 a gain of 0.33 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,149.22 for August compared to a $3,177.14 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 0.87 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $27,918.32 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $23,890.68 a gain of 16.85 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,,405.52 for August compared to a $1,316.65 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 6.74 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $9,636.42 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $9,435.35, an increase of 2.13 percent.

Aug. 10, 2022

City of Frankston implementing

water saving plan as of Aug. 10

The City of Frankston is implementing water saving measures and has issued regulations which would limit the irrigation of landscaping areas starting Wednesday, Aug. 10, until further notice.

The regulations were announced in a letter from Mayor Tommy Carr.

“The City of Frankston will be enforcing the water usage to ensure the continued supply of our water resources, the Mayor said. “Please do your part conserving our water supply to avoid any shortages as well as disruption in your service.”

The city has been suffering an extended period without significant rainfall, prompting increased irrigation of landscaping areas.

The Mayor said in the letter that anyone with questions contact City Hall.

According to the regulations, city water customers with a street address ending in an even number (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) are required to irrigate landscape areas only on Sundays and Thursdays from 8 p.m. to midnight on designated days and until 10 a.m. the next day.

Customers with a street address ending in an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) are required to irrigate landscape areas only on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 8 p.m. to midnight on designated days and until 10 a.m. the next day.

The letter sets penalties for failure to comply with the water saving measures announced. A violation of the plan is a misdemeanor, punishable upon conviction, by a fine of not less than $10 and not more than $200, according to the letter. It further states that each day one or more of the provisions of this plan is violated shall constitute a separate offense.

According to the letter, if a person is convicted of three or more distinct violations of this plan, the utilities superintendent shall, upon due notice to the customer, be authorized to discontinue water service to the premises where such violations occurred. The letter further states:

“Service discontinued under such circumstances shall be restored only upon payment of a service charge, hereby established at $50, and any other costs incurred by the city in discontinuing service.”

According to the letter, suitable assurance must be given to the utilities superintendent that the same action shall not be repeated while the plan is in effect. The letter further states that “compliance with this plan may also be sought through injunctive relief in the district court”

Aug. 9, 2022

Frankston Council okays EDC budget

considers other items at Aug. 9 meet

The Frankston City Council at their August 9 meeting approved the budget of the Frankston Economic Development Corp. and mobile home variances, a replat, installing a street light and  erection of a storage building in a number of items on the agenda, according to City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The Council considered moving forward on a grant through the East Texas Council of Governments for a Recycling Center. The Council agreed such a center would be a great thing but thought the city should focus on an education program about recycling before setting up a center. It was decided to table the proposal at this time, while research could be done on educational material to be handed out to the public.

In other matters, the Council:

— Approved a replat for property on West Murchison Street.

— Approved a mobile home variance on Anderson County Road 300.

— Approved a mobile home variance on West Main Street.

— Approved a storage building at Murchison and Francis streets.

— Approved a street light on North Garrison Street.

Mayor Tommy Carr addressed the Council and audience about filling out a formal complaint form at City Hall to help the city enforce areas which may be in violation of the city’s property maintenance ordinance. He also announced Phase 1 of the water usage drought plan to take effect on Wednesday, Aug. 10.

Following staff reports, the meeting was adjourned. (See EDC Story Aug. 1 BELOW )

Aug. 9, 2022

Grief Support Ministry group to begin

at Frankston UMC Tuesday, Aug. 9

Rev. Charles Kimble, retired United Methodist pastor, will begin a grief support group on Tuesday, Aug. 9, at 6:30 pm. at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston.

This gathering will be on “Working through Life’s Changes: Becoming Whole Again.”

In addition to serving seven churches since 1994, Rev. Kimble has had additional training and experience in Pastoral Care, having been Hospital Chaplain at Christus Mother Frances Hospital and now Hospice/Bereavement Chaplain at Hospice of East Texas since 2021. He has conducted grief workshops and held grief support groups.

“We are blessed to have him coming to Frankston to offer help and encouragement to anyone who is grieving,”  church sponsors said.

Sponsors say this support group is open to anyone, and there will be no charge for participating. At this meeting, dates for the next meeting will be decided.

Aug. 5, 2022

UMC Frankston sets Blood Drive

with Carter BloodCare on Aug. 5

Carter BloodCare is in critical need for blood donations and The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be trying to help.

A blood drive is scheduled  for Friday, Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UMC Family Life Center, 161 S. Weldon St. in Frankston.

Carter BloodCare will be onsite to take donations.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment before arriving. If online access is available, potential donors are asked to complete an online questionnaire prior to their appointment

Potential donors are informed that if they have contracted COVID-19 and are fully recovered, they are eligible to donate blood 10 days after all symptoms have disappeared.

To schedule an appointment online those interested may visit http://www.carterbloodcare.org/ . They may also call (903) 363-040.

Aug. 4, 2022

FISD trustees set property tax,

‘22-23 budget hearing Aug. 15

The Frankston ISD Board of Trustees Thursday, Aug. 4 set the date for the Tax Rate and Budget Hearing for Aug. 15 and renewed its contract with Henderson and Anderson counties for collection of ad valorem property taxes, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The Board also approved the 2022-2023 Student Code of Conduct. The approved Code of Conduct may be seen HERE .

In other action, the Board approved the Consent Agenda which included routine amendments to the 2021-2022 Budget to utilize unspent funds available from one budget item to another where the funds are needed. It also included approval of the appraisal calendar for teacher evaluations for the 2022-2023 school year. Routine policy updates from the Texas Assn. of School Boards and othe revisions to local policies were also included. For more information on any of these items, interested persons may contact the school office.

All of the above actions were approved unanimously by the seven board members.

Supt. Cook reminded the Board that the State Board of Education School Safety Training had started on Feb. 14, 2022 and that the Nov. 14 and Dec. 12 board meetings would be merged into a single meeting on Dec. 5.

The superintendent also reported that the FISD application for the Teacher Incentive Allotment program had been approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). She said a “Recognized” teacher could annually receive approximately $6,000, an “Exemplary” teacher $12,000 and a “Master” teacher $22,000 over a five-year period. She said 2022-23 will be the year for data collection to determine designations.

She also informed the board of a new hire on July 11.

Supt. Cook reminded the Board of the Aug. 8 Meet the Teacher and the Meet the Indians and Maidens events coming up. She also provided a map which directs traffic flow for those bringing students to each school campus in the mornings. A photo of that map may be seen HERE .

Aug. 1, 2022

Frankston EDC Board okays budget

proposal for 2022-23 at Aug. 1 meet

The Board of Directors of the Frankston Economic Development Corp. approved a proposed budget for 2022-2023 of $178,300 after a discussion in their August 2022 meeting, according to Kelli Landreth-Smith, secretary.

The budget anticipates sales tax revenue of $65,000 and $108,397.27 in net operating income from 2021-2022 to fund the budget.

Major items on the proposed new budget include $60,000 for the downtown sidewalk project and $50,000 to the Frankston Volunteer Fire Department.

The proposed budget was to be presented to the City Council for their approval in their Aug. 9 meeting.

The financial statement for the EDC indicated actual expenses for 2021-22 of $37,686.42, which was $96,113.58 less than the 2021-22 budget of $133,800.

In other matters, the board received an update on downtown crosswalks. Director Barbara Simpson reported that Dace Kidd will begin painting the crosswalk between the Tommy Davis building and the park in the next several weeks.

Present for the meeting were President. Jim Dwyer, Vice President Monica Atwood and directors Gigi Selman, Patty Lookabaugh, Judy McNeill, Barbara Simpson and Jamey Lade.

July 20, 2022

“BIG HOUSE” BEGINS — Young people in the fifth thru 11th grade from area churches gathered Wednesday, July 20 at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston making plans for using their time and talents in mission projects in the Frankston area. The group was treated to a meal provided by the host church in preparation for getting to work on scheduled projects thru July 24. — Citizen Photo

July 20, 2022

Students from UMC churches

planning area mission projects

On Wednesday, July 20, about 100 students and adult sponsors are “camping” at The United Methodist Church campus while using their time and talents in mission projects in a program known as “Big House”, according to church officials.

Churches have sent fifth thru 11th grade students from Wildwood, Lexington, Chandler, Dayspring, Quitman and Rose Hill United Methodist churches.

Area residents who need some help with repairs, painting, yard work, reorganization and other chores have been scheduled as job sites, church officials say.

The program is designed for students who are excited about helping others, a cornerstone of Jesus’ teaching, sponsors say.

UMC Frankston hosts are helping  the students have the best experience possible.

July 12, 2022

JULY 12 MEETING

City Council approves revised contract,

proposed budget with library, museum

The Frankston City Council, at its July meeting, voted to approve renewal of the revised contract with the Frankston Depot Library and Museum, Inc., with a stipulation, and approved a proposed library and museum budget of $20,400 for the upcoming fiscal year, according to unofficial minutes submitted by City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The revised contract included a stipulation that ensured the city has first refusal if the FDLM board ever dissolves. The contract was approved unanimously.

The Council agreed on the date of a Special Budget Meeting for Aug. 16.

As part of the procedure in the matter, the Council approved Grantworks as the company which would be the administration/project delivery service provider to complete project implementation for the American Rescue Plan Act funding administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, other federal or state agency. The minutes indicated that Grantworks was the only company responding to a city request for possible providers.

In other action, the Council unanimously agreed that anyone selling inside the city limits needs a permit as well as permission from a property owner if the sale is on private property. The decision stated that the seller does not have to register through the Farmers Market or sell solely in the designated area of the Farmers Market.

The Council also unanimously approved a mobile home variance on a site on Kickapoo Street. The variance was granted as a temporary living situation while a home was being built. The minutes indicated that various neighbors attended the meeting and expressed no objections to the variance after learning of the temporary nature of the mobile home location. The approved variance stipulated that building of the permanent residence begin 180 days from the date of approval and that construction is completed by two years.

In an item from the Council, Gerald Hall asked for volunteers for the Frankston Volunteer Fire Department. He said the FVFD is down to just a few volunteers as first responders. However he indicated that a person can volunteer to help in the office or other areas of the department, if desired, not necessarily only as a first responder. He said “any help would be appreciated”.

Other items were discussed, including some property maintenance concerns, but were either tabled or referred to the appropriate department for investigation or consideration, when appropriate.

Following reports from various staff or departments, the meeting was adjourned.

July 11, 2022

Hilltop Baptist Church Vacation

Bible School set on July 11-15

Hilltop Baptist Church will hold their annual Vacation Bible School on July 11-15, 2022 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Children from kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to attend and learn about “Jesus, Our Foundation of Love” through Bible verses and stories, missions, arts and crafts, and music. A snack will be provided each night.

Family Night will be held on Thursday, July 14, beginning at 7 p.m. The children will be showcased during a short program focused on the learning events of the week.

Hilltop Baptist Church is located at 11269 County Road 4117 in Berryville.

For more information call Dianne Burgamy at 903-360-1824 or Brother Randall Jinkins at 903-530-4335.

July 11, 2022

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July 10, 2022

Area cities get sales  tax

allocations in July list

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the July 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

All area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $41,788.34 for July   compared to a $32,730.28 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 27.67 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $289,488.61 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $248,590.50 a gain of 16.45 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,912.43 for July compared to a $2,560.38 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 13.74 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $20,085.53 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $17,393.19, a gain of 15.47 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $20,467.25 for July  compared to a $20,923.61 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 2.18 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $146,954.85 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $145,661.86 a gain of 0.88 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,231.60 for July compared to a $3,125.66 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 3.38 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $24,769.10 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $20,713.54 a gain of 19.57 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $909.77 for July compared to a $979.97 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 7.16 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $8,230.90 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $8,118.70, an increase of 1.38 percent.

June 26, 2022

PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION —A large crowd of community residents gathered Sunday, June 26 for the 16th annual Patriotic Celebration at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston to help celebrate the upcoming Independence Day, July 4, of our nation. Featured speaker was Father Mark Kusmirek from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Frankston. The event featured patriotic songs by choirs and the audience as well as individual singers. The speaker gave a history of the crises the nation has faced through the years and concluded with the assurance that our nation and its people are resilient and will survive both current and future crises with the same resolve.

— Citizen Photo

16th annual Patriotic Celebration in Pictures

CHURCH CHOIRS PERFORM — Choirs from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church (above) and First Baptist Church of Frankston (below) performed patriotic selections during the 16th annual Patriotic Celebration Sunday, June 26. The Baptist Choir performed a medley of service anthems while recognizing veterans from those branches in the audience. — Citizen Photos

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Below left is the featured speaker for the 16th annual Patriotic Celebration, Father Mark Kusmirek, pastor of the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Below right. is First Baptist pastor Scott Wiley, who closed out the ceremony with remarks and the benediction. — Citizen Photos

June 26, 2022

Annual Patriotic Celebration

scheduled June 26 in Frankston

Members of the Frankston area community are expected to gather on Sunday, June 26 at 2:30 p.m. for the 16th annual Patriotic Celebration at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston, 161 S. Weldon at East Main in Frankston.

The celebration is open to the public, free of charge. Sponsors welcome donations, if desired.

Featured speaker for the event will be Father Mark Kusmirek from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Frankston. The speaker is a veteran and was the Catholic Chaplain for Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. for several years. A part of the program will feature the history of the music, “Taps”, part of the nation’s culture and history.

The 2022 celebration will feature many longtime participants, plus several first time performers to help the community celebrate Independance Day, the 4th of July.

Choirs will include the First Baptist Church and the Catholic Church. Tammy Bostick, Lashonna Adams, Kay Randle and Christina Thomas will be featured, along with Kathy and Al Avizo.

The audience will be invited to participate in the singing of patriotic songs and other features to help celebrate the anniversary of the nation’s independence.

“Ours is a unique country and worth celebrating,” sponsors believe. “Come and celebrate with the community.”

Cookies and ice cream will be served following the program.

The UMC Human Relations Team invites residents of the Frankston area community to attend and bring friends and family. For further information, interested persons may call the church office at (903) 876-2235, during regular office hours, or email.

“BEAT THE HEAT MUSIC FEST” — Area residents and visitors braved the heat of the late afternoon Saturday, June 4 to enjoy the music of one of the bands at the Music Concert in the Town Square City Park in downtown Frankston. The crowd was expected to swell  as the concert continued until 9 p.m.

— Citizen Photo

Frankston UMW Rummage Sale

set for Friday, Saturday June 3-4

The United Methodist Women (UMW)  of Frankston will be hosting their annual Rummage Sale on Friday, June 3 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday, June 4 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston, 161 S. Weldon St.

The sale is open to the public and there is no admission charge. Rain or shine, shoppers may come to this indoor event where items for sale are clean and neatly displayed.

The UMW sale will include “lots of treasures” such as Christmas decorations, housewares, books, electronics, shoes, purses, jewelry, toys and tools.

This rummage sale is the Frankston UMW’s major fundraiser for their missions, which include support of the Clothes Closet and the Rainbow House Food Pantry.

For more information, those interested may call (903) 876-2235, during the hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, closed for lunch from 1 -2 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 6 pm., except for holidays.

Church members or others in the community who want to donate items for the Rummage Sale may ask when they may bring items for the sale.

May 27, 2022

LaPoynor High School Class of 2022 graduates

— LaPoynor ISD Courtesy Photo

LaPoynor Class of 2022 Graduation

May 27; top graduates recognized

A Graduation Ceremony for the 34 graduates of the Class of 2022 of LaPoynor High School will be held on Friday, May 27 at 7 p.m. at the Nichols-Corley Gymnasium on the LaPoynor campus.

A program for the ceremony and other graduation information was provided courtesy of  LaPoynor ISD.

The ceremony will begin with the traditional music of “Pomp and Circumstance” by Sir Edward Elgar.

The Invocation will be led by Honor Student Sydney Reid followed by the Welcome from Supt. Marsha Mills.

The Salutatory Address will be given by 2022 Salutatorian Filiberto  Juarez and the Valedictory Address by 2022 Valedictorian Jefferson Young.

High School Principal, Mrs. Donna Jeffus, will present awards and recognize the Senior Class.

Then diplomas will be presented by the LaPoynor ISD Board of Trustees. They are Patrick Debusk, Bryan Forester, Cornelius Hambrick, Clayton Hamil, Jacob Haynes, Ryan Reynolds and Kyle Riley.

The Benediction, led by Honor Student Matthew Bailey, will be followed by the processional when the graduates will leave the gymnasium to pursue their futures.

Graduation exercises began on Sunday, May 15 with a Baccalaureate service at the LaRue United Methodist Church.

The Kindergarten graduation was held on Tuesday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at the Nichols-Corley Gymnasium.

Eighth Grade Graduation is scheduled at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 26 also at the gymnasium

Pictures of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian Jefferson Young and Filiberto Juarez, along with the names of other students receiving Academic Honors, are featured with the 2022 LaPoynor Graduates Roll HERE .

May 20, 2022

Alex Oxford, Tia Billingsly receive

Austin, Moore graduation honors

The 45 graduates of Frankston High School Class of 2022 received their diplomas Friday evening, May 20 at Commencement and two of their classmates were honored with the presentation of the Jeff Austin Award and the W.E. Moore Award, given to an outstanding male athlete and an outstanding female graduate.

AUSTIN, MOORE AWARDS — Alex Oxford and Tia Billingsly were presented the coveted Jeff Austin Award for the outstanding male athlete, and the W.E. Moore Award for the outstanding female graduate during Frankston High School Commencement on Friday, May 20.

— Citizen Photo

The coveted Jeff Austin Award, given since 1939 to an outstanding male athlete, went to Alex Oxford.

The equally coveted W. E. Moore Award was presented to Tia Billingsly, an outstanding female graduate and an outstanding athlete.

The awards were presented by Chelsey Vinzant, FHS/FMS College and Career Counselor.

Honored for their academic achievements were Valedictorian Riley Selman and Salutatorian Haidyn Hokit who delivered the Salutatory and Valedictory addresses during the ceremony.

Recognized additionally for Academic Honors were Bayne Bacon, Maggie Caveness, Collin Deupree, Cullen Jones, Kaitlyn Matthews, Cory Morgan, Grace Roark and Ryan Taylor.

Leading in the Invocation was Bayne Bacon. Maggie Caveness led in the Pledge of Allegiance. Grace Roark gave the Welcome and Kaitlyn Matthews led in the Benediction.

When all was said and done, High School Principal Edgar Rodriquez certified the graduation of the 45 seniors and they made their way to the podium to be handed their diplomas by School Board President Junior Mascorro.

At the close of the ceremony, the graduates joined in singing the school song, “Hail to the Blue and White”.

FHS Commencement in Pictures HERE

The graduates traditionally hurled their caps high in the air as a symbol of their start of their post graduate lives.

A large crowd of proud parents and friends were present in the newly-named Robert Loper Coliseum for the ceremony.   

(Scholarships, awards HERE )   (Class of 2022 Roll and Honor Graduates HERE )

Frankston High School Class of 2022 graduates

— FISD Courtesy Photo

May 18, 2022

Class of 2022 Commencement set

May 20; Honor Grads recognized

The 45 graduating seniors of the Class of 2022 of Frankston High School will be holding Commencement on Friday, May 20 at the FHS gymnasium. The slide show will begin at 6 p.m. and the ceremony at 6:30 p.m.

Following is the order of the ceremony as reported by Frankston ISD:

The Class will enter the gymnasium to the sound of the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” and the ceremony will begin with the invocation led by honor graduate Bayne Bacon.

The Class and attendees will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by honor graduate Maggie Caveness.

Honor graduate Grace Roark will extend the “Welcome” to all attending.

Salutatorian Haidyn Hokit will deliver the Salutatory Address.

Chelsey Vinzant, FHS/FMS College and Career Counselor, will present awards.

Valedictorian Riley Selman will deliver the Valedictory Address.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez will deliver the Certification of Graduation followed by Presentation of the Class for the receiving of diplomas.

FISD School Board President Junior Mascorro will present diplomas to graduates.

Following the singing of the school song, “Hail to the Blue and White”, the ceremony will end with the Benediction led by honor graduate Kaitlyn Matthews and the Class will leave the gymnasium to the sound of the Recessional.

Prior to the Commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. a Scholarship Recognition event will be held in the gymnasium.

Elementary school and middle school ceremonies are scheduled during the week.

Middle School Awards will be presented in a ceremony on Thursday, May 19 at 8 a.m. in the school auditorium.

Then at 10 a.m. the same day, Kindergarten Graduation will be held in the auditorium.

On Friday, May 20 at 9:15 a.m., Frankston Elementary School will hold the Awards Ceremony in the auditorium.    

(Class of 2022 Roll and Honor Graduates HERE )

May 16, 2022

FISD trustees employ personnel,

review Pre-K monitoring reports

Frankston School trustees Monday, May 16 employed professional personnel and reviewed Progress Monitoring Reports for Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) based on data from the Children’s Learning Institute, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

They also heard campus reports and updates on use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds under ESSER III.

In a fairly abbreviated session, they also approved of the monthly financial report under the consent agenda.

The Pre-K report on Literacy indicated that end-of-year CLI data for all students in literacy is above projections at this time. The report indicated that, in the 2021-2022 school year, two veteran teachers taught Pre-K, the classrooms were expanded to give more learning space, and each classroom had a supporting fulltime para-professional to assist and work with students. For 2022-2023, plans call for continuing use of the same veteran teachers along with keeping a para-professional in each class.

The report on Pre-K Numeracy reflected much the same utilization of veteran teachers and para-professionals in 2021-2022 and the intent to continue that plan in 2022-2023 in light of the campus evaluation being on track.

Business Manager Randi Westbrook updated the board on the projects/supplies funded with ESSER III funds, including the HVAC, Learning Center renovations and personnel costs.

Campus principals gave their usual reports on activities and events.

Elementary Principal Melanie Blackwell recognized students who were “Outstanding Indians”, reported on the Robotics Competition, Arbor Day Tree, STAAR tests, Gifted and Talented (GT) Trip, 5th Grade Career Day, Field Day and   also reported current enrollment to be 370.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported on the FFA Banquet, UIL participation celebration and events during the last week of school. She said total middle school enrollment was 192.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported on plans for Final Exam Weel, the Band Concert and Graduation. He recognized Timothy Ryals as Farm Bureau Student of the Month and Kaitlyn and Riley Webb as Teachers of the Year. He said total high school enrollment was 221 with 62 ninth graders, 57 tenth graders, 57 eleventh graders and 45 twelfth graders.

Supt. Cook confirmed the campus enrollment figures and said total district enrollment was 783, down by 11 students from the start of school in August 2021. She also reported on total COVID-19 cases since the start of school, which had not increased since March 29.

May 15, 2022

FHS GYM NAMED FOR LOPER — The Frankston High School gymnasium will be the Robert Loper Coliseum after it was announced that the Frankston School Trustees had voted the change in their April meeting and formally announced it at the Wall of Honor Ceremony Sunday, May 15. Loper was also one of two 2022 inductees to the Frankston ISD Wall of Honor recognized at the ceremony.  — Citizen Photo

WALL OF HONOR INDUCTEES — Four persons were formally recognized for selection to the Frankston ISD Wall of Honor in a ceremony Sunday, May 15. From left are 2021 selections T. L. Beard and Ruth Tindel and 2022 inductees Carl House and Coach Robert Loper. The plaques shown were ceremoniously re-added or added to the Wall during the event. — Citizen Photo

FISD Wall of Honor inductees

praised; gym named for Loper

Four individuals were recognized Sunday, May 15 as newest recipients of places on the Frankston Independent School District Wall of Honor in a ceremony in the lobby of  the FHS gymnasium, now to be known as the Robert Loper Coliseum.

Coach Loper was inducted in the ceremony as one of the two 2022 inductees on the Wall of Honor and received the added honor of having the school gymnasium named for him as a result of action by the FISD Board of Trustees on April 18 but only announced formally at the Wall of Honor Ceremony.

The other 2022 inductee, honored posthumously, was Carl House, a former FISD trustee and person active in a number of youth, church and community organizations and service to individuals.

Plaques for the 2022 inductees were added to those of prior honorees in the  gymnasium lobby and cafeteria.

Selected in 2021 posthumously and honored at the May 15 ceremony were T. L. Beard and Mrs. Ruth Tindel whose plaques had already been added but were ceremoniously re-added during the event. Because of precautions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the FISD decided to further recognize them in the public ceremony along with the 2022 honorees this year.

Several speakers spoke in behalf of the four honorees: Missye Smith Ward for Mr. Beard; Joe Tindel for his wife, Ruth, also praising the other honorees; Bob Whitehurst, Jerry Beard and Todd House for Carl House; and Kyle Dezern and Vance Dallas for Loper. The veteran Frankston basketball coach also spoke of his time at FHS and gave credit to coaches and players who had contributed to his teams through the years.

Started in 2015, the Wall of Honor recognizes members of the community for their exceptional achievements in their chosen field, exceptional community service or outstanding contribution to the Frankston Independent School District.

A summary of the achievements of the Wall of Honor inductees were outlined in previous accounts of their achievements as well as during the ceremony.

Coach Loper served as FISD teacher, athletic director and coach from 1988-2016 and was noted for his continually competitive basketball teams, one of which was a state finalist. He also coached Cross Country and assisted in other sports. He also was inducted into the Texas Assn. of Basketball Coaches (TABC) Hall of Fame in 2019.

Mr. House, a 1979 graduate of Frankston High School, not only served as school trustee but also was active in his church. A scholarship benefit program for deserving dual credit students bears his name, the Carl House Dual Credit Scholarship. He was also actively involved in other community service and sensitive to the needs of individuals.

Further information on the service and contributions of Coach Loper and Mr. House is provided in articles HERE .

On announcement of the honorees in 2021 and during the May 15 ceremony, Mr. Beard’s and Mrs. Tindel’s contributions were noted.

Mr. Beard, a Frankston native and 1941 FHS graduate, was selected for his love for education, his service to the country in World War II, his successful career  which provided jobs for many Frankston residents, his work on behalf of Frankston as Anderson County Commissioner of Precinct 3 and his overall devotion to his hometown.

Mrs. Tindel was selected for her more than 20 years of service to FISD employees and patrons as tax assessor-collector and her work on PEIMS, payroll and employee insurance, as well as assisting the superintendent and business manager in budget preparations. Her community service included work with the Frankston Medical Assn. in helping obtain a doctor, and later at the Austin Clinic, along with her inspiration and help for her husband with management and operation of The Frankston Citizen newspaper from 1973-2005.

Further information on the service and contributions of Mr. Beard and Mrs. Tindel is provided in articles HERE .

May 15, 2022

Baccalaureate for 2022 FHS grads

May 15 begins Graduation Week

Graduation week for the Frankston High School Class of 2022 begins on Sunday, May 15 at 4 p.m. with a Baccalaureate Service at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 1379 N. Frankston Hwy.

The service comes after a special Top Ten Academic Honors Banquet on Tuesday, May 10 at 6 p.m. at the FHS cafeteria, adjacent to the school gymnasium.

At that banquet, Valedictorian Riley Selman and Salutatorian Haidyn Hokit and others receiving Academic Honors were recognized. They are Bayne Bacon, Maggie Caveness, Collin Deupree, Cullen Jones, Kaitlyn Matthews, Cory Morgan, Grace Roark and Ryan Taylor.

Commencement is scheduled for Friday, May 20 in the gymnasium with a slide show starting at 6 p.m., followed at 6:30 p.m. by the ceremony.

Prior to the Commencement ceremony at 8:30 a.m. a Scholarship Recognition event will be held in the gymnasium.

Elementary school and middle school ceremonies are scheduled during the week.

Middle School Awards will be presented in a ceremony on Thursday, May 19 at 8 a.m. in the school auditorium.

Then at 10 a.m. the same day, Kindergarten Graduation will be held in the auditorium.

On Friday, May 20 at 9:15 a.m., Frankston Elementary School will hold the Awards Ceremony in the auditorium.

The program for the FHS Commencement, along with formal recognition of the Top Ten Academic honorees and the Graduate Class Roll will be reported beginning Monday, May 16.  

May 15, 2022

FISD Wall of Honor ceremony

to honor inductees on May 15

Frankston Independent School District will hold a Wall of Honor Inductee Ceremony to honor the 2022 inductees and those 2021 inductees selected last year on Sunday, May 15, 2022 at 2 p.m. in the FHS gymnasium lobby and cafeteria.

The FISD announced the recognition of veteran Frankston Indians basketball Coach Robert Loper and the posthumous recognition of Carl House, FISD School Board Member from 2003-2019, for their nomination and induction to the FISD Wall of Honor for 2022.

Plaques for the 2022 inductees will be added to those of prior honorees in the Frankston High School School gymnasium lobby and cafeteria.

Selected in 2021 posthumously were T.L. Beard and Mrs. Ruth Tindel whose plaques have already been added. However, because of precautions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the FISD decided to further recognize them in the public ceremony along with the 2022 honorees this year.

Started in 2015, the Wall of Honor recognizes members of the community for their exceptional achievements in their chosen field, exceptional community service or outstanding contribution to the Frankston Independent School District.

A summary of the achievements of the Wall of Honor inductees was outlined in the FISD announcement.

Coach Loper served as FISD teacher, athletic director and coach from 1988-2016 and was noted for his continually competitive basketball teams, one of which was a state finalist. He also coached Cross Country and assisted in other sports. He also was inducted into the Texas Assn. of Basketball Coaches (TABC) Hall of Fame in 2019.

Mr. House, a 1979 graduate of Frankston High School, not only served as school trustee but also was active in his church. A scholarship benefit program for deserving dual credit students bears his name, the Carl House Dual Credit Scholarship. He was also actively involved in other community service and sensitive to the needs of individuals.

Further information on the service and contributions of Coach Loper and Mr. House is provided in articles HERE .

On announcement of the 2021 honorees in 2021, Mr. Beard’s and Mrs. Tindel’s contributions were noted.

Mr. Beard, a Frankston native and 1941 FHS graduate, was selected for his love for education, his service to the country in World War II, his successful career  which provided jobs for many Frankston residents, his work on behalf of Frankston as Anderson County Commissioner of Precinct 3 and his overall devotion to his hometown.

Mrs. Tindel was selected for her more than 20 years of service to FISD employees and patrons as tax assessor-collector and her work on PEIMS, payroll and employee insurance, as well as assisting the superintendent and business manager in budget preparations. Her community service included work with the Frankston Medical Assn. in helping obtain a doctor, and later at the Austin Clinic, along with her inspiration and help for her husband with management and operation of  The Frankston Citizen newspaper from 1973-2005.

Further information on the service and contributions of Mr. Beard and Mrs. Tindel is provided in articles HERE .

Prior inductees to the Wall of Honor whose plaques are displayed in the Frankston High School School gymnasium lobby and cafeteria include the following:

2015 — A.B. Awalt, Teacher and Coach 1928-1940 and FISD Superintendent 1951-1961; J.C. Hicks, Superintendent, Teacher and Coach, 1946-1970; CM Sgt. Jerry W. Simmons, 1976 FHS graduate, Chief Master Sgt. USAF; Jesse W. Smith Sr., School Board Member, President, 1947-1967

2016 — Jeff Austin Sr., 1930 FHS graduate, Successful businessman, Longtime supporter of FISD; Eugene “Guy” Bizzell, 1931 FHS graduate/Salutatorian, 1957 U.S.A. Teacher of the Year.

2017 — James M. Bloxom Sr., 1947 FHS graduate, FISD School Board Member, 1958-1991; Carl Cook, FISD employee, 1946-1972; Troy C. House, 1951 FHS graduate, FHS teacher 1962-1993; U.S. Army Spc. Heath K. Pickard, 2006 FHS graduate, KIA October 16, 2008-Iraq.

2018 — No applications received.

2019 — Kathleen Cook Fitzgerald, 1934 FHS graduate, FISD teacher 1961-1978, Service to the Frankston community; G.V. “Bo” Ousley, FISD Teacher, Coach and Principal, 1956-1992. Coach of 1961 State Basketball Champions; Jerry Gideon, FISD Superintendent, 1970-1985, 40 years in Education; Sonny Perry, 1955 FHS graduate, FISD Teacher/Coach 1982-1992.

2020 — No inductees due to pandemic.

April 30, 2022

ART WALK ON THE SQUARE 2022 — A big crowd of browsers and shoppers were gathering on Saturday, April 30 in the downtown Frankston Town Square for the annual Art Walk on the Square, sponsored by the Economic Development Corp. of Frankston. Visitors were expected to continue coming until the.event closed at 4 p.m.   — Citizen Photo

April 27, 2022

‘Mighty Indian Band’ earns coveted

Sweepstakes Award at UIL Contest

The Frankston Indian Band came home Wednesday, April 27 with the Sweepstakes Award after winning Division 1 ratings in Concert and Sight Reading at the University Interscholastic League Contest at Carthage.

The Sweepstakes Award is given to a band which finished with a Division 1 rating in Concert, Marching and Sight Reading within the same calendar year.

The 70-member band received the Sweepstakes Award for the first time in over 40 years, according to a Frankston ISD announcement.

April 18, 2022

FISD comprehensive improvement

project to utilize fund balance plan

The Frankston Independent School District Board of Trustees Monday, April 18 unanimously approved a plan for use of the district’s fund balance to finance various campus and facilities improvements, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The improvements covered technology, elementary, middle and high schools, transportation, maintenance and athletics and total expenditure was projected to be $799,249.82.

Technology — Addition of six exterior and eight indoor security cameras to provide adequate coverage as recommended by principals and the school security officer. Cost was projected to be $32,744.20.

Elementary Campus — Addition of a Dome climber at the main playground area with school bus and Merry-Go-Cycle on the side playground. Cost projection was $7,339.63.

Middle School Campus — Updating lighting fixtures (with controls) and bulbs to LED for better lighting at lower energy costs. (Two options are to be considered.) Cost projection was $143,528.80.

High School Campus — Purchase of 90 new band uniforms to replace 12-year-old deteriorating uniforms which have unreplaceable missing pieces. The new uniforms are designed to last 12-15 years and are projected to provide for growth of the current 70-member band. Total cost was projected at $28,530.

Transportation — A) Replace five oldest buses (one 1999 and four 2005) with new buses in connection with a TCEQ Clean School Bus program grant. Estimates are that the purchase would put FISD five years ahead of the current bus replacement schedule. Savings were estimated to be $258,300 and total costs of $291,700, with possible slight changes, pending grant approval.

B) Replace cameras of all buses with state of the art devices and cloud-based software providing daily updated downloads of information. Total Cost projected at $81,326.

C) Purchase of a new Expedition vehicle, including towing package, to replace one taken out of service. Total Cost estimated at $50,085.

D) Add new Traverse vehicle to the fleet to replace two vehicles (2003 and 2006 models) about to be retired from service and the Traverse is described to fit the district’s needs. Total cost estimated at $37,299.

Maintenance — (A) Install new fencing behind the practice football field extending to the agriculture barn to prevent hogs coming onto football fields and other areas. Cost was projected to be $24,720.

B) Purchase of a Sports Turf Renovation machine for de-thatching, aeration, vertical mowing, turf leveling and infield lip removal. FISD currently was reported as spending $5,000 per year to hire verticut service. Total cost was projected at $17,145.

C) Purchase of new mower to replace two mowers which require much service. The proposed new mower will cut an eight-foot swath which will cut mowing time in half and be safer on hillsides, it was reported. Cost was projected at $31,959.19.

Athletics — A) FISD tennis courts were reported as needing resurfacing. Cost was projected at $27,872.

B) Repurposing the building at the end of the football field which is currently used for storage and space for some softball/baseball practice. Plans call for cleaning out the building, adding retractable nets, updating lighting and looking at new flooring ideas. Cost was projected at $25,000.

Additional actions, reports on the April 18 meeting in  separate article BELOW.

April 18, 2022

FlISD trustees review Board Outcome

Progress, hear school campus reports

Frankston School trustees Monday, April 18 reviewed Board Outcome Monitoring Reports under College, Career, Military Readiness (CCMR), approved the consent agenda, heard campus and staff reports and approved resignations and new employment as well as teacher contracts for the 2022-2023 school year, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The board discovered that the overall evaluation was on track for the increase in percentage of graduates that meet the criteria for CCMR from 71 percent in 2019 to 81 percent by August 2025. They also heard that the campus evaluation is on track for career/military graduate data for for all students. They also heard plans for moving forward toward their goals. It was reported that the only way to be career ready is to obtain an industry-based certification (IBC). Currently 89 percent of FISD graduating seniors have obtained an IBC. Three are still working on it and hope to have it completed by graduation.

Included on the consent agenda approved was the certification that FISD will use the 2022-2023 Instructional Materials Allotment to satisfy the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) curriculum.

Campus principals gave reports on activities and achievements on their campuses.

Elementary Principal Melanie Blackwell reported on her outstanding Indians and on activities including Pajamas for Plants, Atten-DANCE Party, End of Year MAP, Egg Hunts, Purple Up for Military Kids and Pre-K and Kindergarten Roundup. She reported that current enrollment was 368.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported on the Eighth Grade Leadership Group Egg Hunt and recognized Emilie Batchelor and Christina Graham for the Attendance Incentive. She also recognized the Seventh and Eighth Grade boys who won first and the district championship in track. She said current enrollment at MS was 195.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez recognized Logan Taylor as the Farm Bureau Student of the Month and gave dates for upcoming events at the school. He said current enrollment on his campus was 222, including 62 in the ninth grade, 58 in the 10th grade, 57 in the 11th grade and 45 in the 12th grade.

In her report, Supt. Cook confirmed individual campus enrollments and reported a total enrollment of 785, down nine students from the start of school in August 2021. She also reminded of various deadlines for board training and the Teacher Incentive Allotment and reported results from the Anderson County Livestock Show.

April 16, 2022

March 29, 2022

FISD reports one new staff case

of confirmed COVID  March 29

One additional staff member has been lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 in a report on Tuesday, March 29, according to Frankston ISD.

According to school protocol, all student families and staff members have been notified of the new case and that the individual was last on campus on March 28.

The new case brings the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 83. The student total remains at 180 for an overall total of 263 confirmed since school opening.

On Tuesday, March 8, a staff member, last on campus on March 4, was reported to have been lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, bringing the staff total since August 2021 to 82 while the student total remained at 180 for an overall total of 262 since school opening.

On Thursday, Feb. 24, two students were lab-confirmed to have COVID and all student families and staff members were notified of those new cases in which the individuals were last on campus on Feb. 10.

The report of cases on Feb. 24 brought the total  of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 180 while the staff member total remained at 81. The overall total was 261 since school opening.

On Friday, Feb. 18, all student families and staff members were notified of one new student case in which the individual was last on campus on Feb. 2.

That new case brought the total of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 178. The staff member total remained at 81 for an overall total of 259 confirmed since school opening.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date since the opening of school are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The new case is being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

March 28, 2022

FISD trustees review outcome goals,

approve teacher contracts for ‘22-23

Frankston School trustees Monday, March 28 reviewed the Board Outcome Goal Progress Reports for Kindergarten, and first and second grade students, approved the consent agenda and approved personnel resignations and teacher contracts for 2022-2023, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

Among the items approved on the Consent Agenda was the certification of Supt. Cook as the District Representative to the Region 7 Regional Advisory Committee for 2022-2023. Also approved were school auditors Pattillo, Brown and Hill for the school year ending Aug. 31, 2022. A resolution approving off-campus activity for attendance purposes was also approved.

Campus principals and staff also gave their reports and updates.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported that Eli Beard and Mia Ulrich were named Outstanding Indians in Pre-Kindergarten. She also reported on celebrations and observances, including Women’s History Month, Read Across America, Kindergarten Rodeo, BRAVES Western Day, Thank You Maintenance and Custodians and Kid’s Heart Challenge. She said current enrollment at her campus was 368.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported that Huck Slater participated in the Spelling Bee over Spring Break. The event was held in a virtual setting this year. Also she reported that Levi White received a Gifted and Talented Scholarship provided by Region 7 to Texas A&M Sea Camp, a Fishing Camp. Mrs. Owens also presented a list of the Tribe Members in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades for the fourth six weeks. Also observed in middle school was a Tribe Treat — PJs and Cupcakes.

She noted that Luke Dugan and Gunner Vinzant went to the Houston Livestock Show and the seventh and eighth grade track teams placed first in the Mildred JH Relays track meet. Total enrollment was reported as 198.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported that Jenny Kennedy and Kaylee Davis were named Farm Bureau Teacher and Student of the Month. He also reported on the FHS One-Act Play winning at district and going to bi-district to be selected as alternate to advance in the UIL competition. He also reported on the Academic UIL winners and participants, STAAR testing and the SAT scheduled in April. Rodriguez said HS enrollment was 226, including 63 ninth graders, 58 tenth graders, 63 eleventh graders and 42 twelfth graders.

Business Manager Randi Westbrook gave a report and update on Finance and Facilities. She reported on completed facilities which included the track at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium. She also reported on a Property Value Study which included origins of property values, responsibilities and requirements plus possible fund balance projects.

Supt. Cook confirmed attendance figures given by principals and said total district enrollment was 792, down two students from Aug. 12, 2021. She also reported on the number of COVID-19 cases among staff and students since the opening of school in August 2021. The superintendent reported on the employment of a new administrative assistant, Jade McBride.

Supt. Cook announced that the 2022 Frankston ISD Wall of Honor ceremony has been scheduled for Sunday, May 15 at 2 p.m. in the FHS cafeteria. The 2022 inductees selected are Carl House and Robert Loper, she said. Also included for honors in the ceremony will be the 2021 inductees T.L. Beard and Ruth Tindel, whose ceremony last year was postponed due to COVID-19 complications.

She also informed the board of the 2022 Summer Leadership Institute, Cybersecurity Training and a policy update on employee medical leave.

The board voted to table action on new business items until the next meeting.

March 14, 2022

Frankston EDC board seeks bids

for monument, museum HVAC

The Frankston Economic Development Board Monday, March 14 continued consideration of a sign promoting the city, a monument for the Town Square City Park and an alternate heating and air conditioning system for the Kathleen Cook Fitzgerald Museum, according to a report of unofficial minutes by secretary Kelli Casey Landreth-Smith.

The consideration of the sign’s location was tabled pending a possible survey of an area near the intersection of FM 19 and SH 155.

The Board also tabled consideration of a Veterans Memorial monument for the park pending the receiving of additional bids on the project.

Also tabled was consideration of using an alternate heating and air conditioning unit as an upgrade for the Fitzgerald Museum. The board expressed a desire to receive multiple bids before deciding to purchase a unit.

Board member Gigi Selman informed directors that a large number of artists are expected for this year’s Artwalk on the Square, scheduled for the last Saturday in April. She said two food trucks have been booked for the event and she is working on promoting the Art Walk.

Board member Monica Atwood told the directors that there have been two bands scheduled for the Music Festival, set for Saturday, June 4 from 5 to 9 p.m. downtown. One of the bands is a classic rock band, “Second Childhood”, and the other is a country music band, “Six Miles to Mixon”, she said.

EDC directors present at the meeting were Jim Dwyer, president, Vice President Monica Atwood, Gigi Selman, Patty Lookabaugh and Jamey Lade.

Garrett and Carey Moynihan, were visitors at the meeting and they updated the board on progress with a recycling center.

March 8, 2022

Council expresses preference to own

land near park before improvements

The Frankston City Council Tuesday, March 8 showed a preference for owning the land southwest of the Town Square City Park before any expenditure of money on any improvements to the property, according to a report of unofficial minutes by City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The preference of the Council came after a review of action by the Economic Development Corp. Board to decline to purchase the land and use the money to make improvements to the area.

The Council voted unanimously to approve the selection of a new website provider, CivicPlus, which services many city websites in the area, throughout Texas and the United States. The EDC board had voted to seek a new website provider. Annual cost is $4,400 which will be covered by the EDC.

The Council also approved the Audit of city finances for 2020-2021 by Acker & Company. The audit was completed and no issues with the city’s finances were found.

In other action, the Council unanimously approved a replat at 230 Elizabeth and another replat at 216 E. Main.

After the Council considered the Racial Profiling Report, they expressed a desire to speak with Police Chief Darren Goodman about the report. They voted to table the matter until the Chief could be in attendance.

Council member Johnnie Day expressed his thanks to everyone for their phone calls and prayers when he was ill.

Among announcements made was the time change to daylight savings time on the coming weekend. It was also announced that the Farmers’ Market opening day would be on April 16 and the Art Walk on the Square will be on the last Saturday in April.

Departmental and staff reports were given and the meeting was adjourned.

March 8, 2022

FISD reports one new staff case

of confirmed COVID  March 8

One additional staff member has been lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 in a report on Tuesday, March 8, according to Frankston ISD.

According to school protocol, all student families and staff members have been notified of the new case in which the individual was last on campus on March 4.

The new case brings the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 82. The student total remains at 180 for an overall total of 262 confirmed since school opening.

On Thursday, Feb. 24, two students were lab-confirmed to have COVID and all student families and staff members were notified of those new cases in which the individuals were last on campus on Feb. 10.

The report of cases on Feb. 24 brought the total  of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 180 while the staff member total remained at 81. The overall total was 261 since school opening.

On Friday, Feb. 18, all student families and staff members were notified of one new student case in which the individual was last on campus on Feb. 2.

That new case brought the total of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 178. The staff member total remained at 81 for an overall total of 259 confirmed since school opening.

In the last report on Monday, Feb. 7, three staff members, last on campus Jan. 21, Jan. 26 and Feb. 1 were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to a notification sent student families and staff members.

Those new cases brought the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 81. The student total, at that time, remained at 177 for an overall total of 258 cases confirmed since school opening.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date since the opening of school are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The new case is being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

March 1, 2022

Voters go to polls today, March 1

for two party primary elections

Registered voters in the Frankston area of Anderson and Henderson County will be casting ballots in person today, March 1 in primary elections for the Democratic and Republican parties.

Hours for voting are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Voters will be voting for candidates who seek to be nominees for federal offices, members of the State Legislature, and state, district and county offices and for the purpose of electing county chairs, according to the notice of election. Sample ballots may be seen by selecting from links to the websites for the county of residence available in the sidebar of this website’s Home Page.

Voters must pick a Party Preference to vote in this election, according to election instructions.

Election offices in both Anderson and Henderson counties have published the following information on their websites:

In Anderson County, voters in the area will be voting at the following locations today, election day:

Today, Election Day, voters who reside in the area served by Box 18 may cast ballots at the Frankston Courthouse Annex. Voters in the Neches ISD who reside in the area served by Box 16 may vote at the First Baptist Church, Neches; and voters in the area served by Box 23 at the Pisgah Baptist Church, Brushy Creek.

In Henderson County, voters in the area will be voting at the following locations today, election day:

Voting for Box 4LP will be at the Coffee City Community Center, 7019 Pleasant Ridge Rd., Frankston. Box 4MS will be at the Moore Station Community Center, 4720 CR 4319 at LaRue and Boxes 4NLP thru 4SE will be at the Henderson County LaRue Complex at 9551 CR 4719, LaRue, according to the election office.

Due to new election requirements passed by the Texas Legislature, voters are advised to either call the two counties’ election offices or link to election information for the county of residence in the sidebar on the Home Page of this website for instructions or other details.

March 1, 2022

Annual Fat Tuesday Pancake Supper

planned by Methodist Men March 1

The United Methodist Men’s group of The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be hosting its annual Fat Tuesday “All You Can Eat Pancake Supper” on Fat Tuesday, March 1 at the church’s Family Life Center,  161 S. Weldon Street, on the southeast corner of East Main and Weldon streets in Frankston.

The men will start serving pancakes and sausages at 5:30 p.m. and will continue serving until 7:30 p.m.

During the supper, Mardi Gras music will be played and Mardi Gras beads  distributed to help create the New Orleans atmosphere.

Donations will be accepted at the annual UMM fundraiser to help fund their charitable projects, including their traditional wheel chair ramp ministry, Feed the Hungry ministry and support of the Clothes Closet and Rainbow House Food Pantry.

Anyone in the Frankston area community is invited to come enjoy pancakes and sausages and all the trimmings and help fund the UMM’s ministry.

For more information, contact the church office at (903) 876-2235 or visit the website.

Feb. 27, 2022

Frankston First Baptist to present

A&M Singing Cadets on Feb. 27

First Baptist Church of Frankston will be presenting the voice of “Aggieland”, the Texas A&M University Singing Cadets in their University Concert Series on Sunday, Feb. 27, at 3 p.m. at the church sanctuary.

The concert is free and open to the public, according to church spokespersons.

The Singing Cadets are described as one of the oldest collegiate singing organizations in the world. They have toured in America and abroad and have earned recognition for doing so, including invitations to sing for American presidents.

On Sunday, Feb. 20, The University of Mary Hardin Baylor presented “One Voice” in concert. The choral ensemble repertoire consisted of both contemporary and classical music performed with the whole family in mind.

For more information, those interested may call (903) 876-2411 or visit the First Baptist Church website .

Feb. 27, 2022

‘St. Paul Speaks’ dramatization set

at UMC of Frankston on Feb. 27

The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be presenting the performance of “St. Paul Speaks” at the worship service at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 27 at the Family Life Center, 161 S. Weldon at East Main Street in Frankston.

Church sponsors describe the event as free and open to any who desire to attend.

“St. Paul Speaks” is identified as the Performance Scripture Ministry of Philip Smith.

During the performance, the room becomes the first century church and the audience sees and hears the dramatization of Apostle Paul delivering his letters to them with love and passion, according to information from Smith.

Performer Smith is described as an accomplished actor who has accepted a calling to dedicate his talent and service to bring the letters of Paul the Apostle to life through Performance Scripture.

The performance is described as a theatrical presentation composed exclusively of Scripture from Philippians, Colossians, Galatians, Second Timothy and “The Gospel of God’s Love” compiled from several of Paul’s letters, all with set, costume and lighting.

The information from Smith indicates that he has performed at a wide variety of events, including Sunday services, banquets, Bible studies and Senior and Youth activities.

The sponsoring church is expecting the performance to be a special event for those attending.

After the performance, a lunch of “Soup, Sandwiches, Salad and Dessert” will be served by the church.

Those requiring more information may call the church office at (903) 876-2235 or go to the church website .

Feb. 24, 2022

FISD reports two student cases

of confirmed COVID  Feb. 24

Two additional students have been lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 in a report on Thursday, Feb. 24, according to Frankston ISD.

According to school protocol, all student families and staff members have been notified of the new cases in which the individuals were last on campus on Feb. 10.

The new cases bring the total of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 180. The staff member total remains at 81 for an overall total of 261 confirmed since school opening.

On Friday, Feb. 18, all student families and staff members were notified of one new student case in which the individual was last on campus on Feb. 2.

That new case brought the total of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 178. The staff member total remained at 81 for an overall total of 259 confirmed since school opening.

In the last report on Monday, Feb. 7, three staff members, last on campus Jan. 21, Jan. 26 and Feb. 1 were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to a notification sent student families and staff members.

Those new cases brought the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 81. The student total, at that time, remained at 177 for an overall total of 258 cases confirmed since school opening.

Prior to the Feb. 7 report, a student, last on campus on Jan. 27, and a staff member, last on campus on Jan. 28, were added Jan. 31 to the list of confirmed cases reported since August 2021.

Those cases brought the total of students to 177 and staff members to 78 for an overall total of 255 since the opening of school.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date since the opening of school are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

Feb. 21, 2022

FISD trustees extend contracts,

employ personnel on Feb. 21

Frankston ISD trustees  employed contract personnel and approved extension of contracts of administrators for another year Monday, Feb. 21, according to a report of the regular meeting.

The trustees extended administrator contracts for another year for Supt. Nicci Cook, High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez, Middle School Principal Cindy Owens, Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell, Assistant Principals Melissa Wimmer and Jeff Teague, Business Manager Randi Westbrook and Athletic Director Paul Gould.

New contract personnel employed were Hannah Felts, District registered nurse; Elizabeth Lade, MS/HS Art Teacher; and Jennifer Skender, MS/HS Life Skills teacher.

Trustees approved the Consent Agenda which included approval of the 2022-2023 School Calendar, and Revisions in the RIPICS Plan and adopted a Resolution regarding wage payments during emergency school closings.

The Board also heard reports on Progress Monitoring of students in third grade, kindergarten and first and second grades based on STAAR testing.

On the Student Outcome goal to increase the percent of third grade students whose score meets grade level or above on STAAR reading from 43 percent to 53 percent by August 2025, it was reported that the overall evaluation was on track.

On the Goal Progress Measure of the percent of kindergarten students who score on grade level or above in reading will increase from 40 percent to 50 percent by June 2025, it also reported that the overall evaluation was on track.

On the Goal Progress Measure of the percent of first and second grade students who score on grade level or above will increase from 53 percent to 63 percent by June 2025, it was reported that the overall evaluation was slightly off track.

Each report went into greater detail on distribution of student groups and evaluation protocols as well as plans moving forward to continue improvement.

Campus principals gave reports on their activities.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported on Indians of the Month in Kindergarten. They are Valeria Albarran, Willow Craver and Riley Henderson. Also reported were Black History Month, BRAVES Trips, 100/101 Days of School, Valentine’s Day Celebrations, Parent/Teacher Conferences, Atten-Dance Party and Twos-Day on Feb. 22. She also reported on For the Love of Jeans, Counselor Appreciation, Lunch Delivery and Fill the Fridge.

Ms Blackwell said current enrollment in elementary school was 368.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens recognized Chelsea Lloyd, sixth grade English Language Arts teacher, as Farm Bureau FMS Teacher of the Month. Among activities reported was the FMS Dance. She said current FMS total enrollment was 202.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez recognized Jared Cook as Farm Bureau outstanding student for high school. He gave note to activities and observances including Black History Month, CTE Month, FFA Dress-Up Week and the One-Act Play Contest on March 9-10 and Spring Break on March 14-18. He said current enrollment in high school was 227, including 64 ninth graders, 58 tenth graders, 63 eleventh graders and 42 twelfth graders.

Supt. Cook confirmed the various campus enrollment figures and said total FISD enrollment was currently 797, up by three students from Aug. 16, 2021. She said the 2021-2022 Snapshot on Oct. 29, 2021 was 809. She also reported that there had been 259 COVID-19 cases since August, 2021, 178 students and 81 staff members.

The superintendent congratulated the students who competed in the Canton Academic UIL Invitational Meet on Feb. 12. She said Elizabeth Derr received fourth place in Spelling and Vocabulary and Sir Isaac Foster received fifth place. The Literary Criticism Team of Ryan Derr, Sir Isaac Foster and Elizabeth Derr received third place as a team. Serenity Foster advanced to the second round of Poetry Interpretation.

Also the superintendent said Caitlyn Deupree and Grace Giles will be competing in the Girls Regional Powerlifting Meet on Feb. 26 at Rice High School. She also mentioned the FHS basketball teams in the playoffs,

Also reported was those FHS Band students who are advancing to the state Solo and Ensemble contest and congratulated Riley Selman who will participate in the ATSSB All-State Band at San Antonio. She also noted that Aiden Barnes, Conner Wolfe and Jack Suggs earned Superior ratings for their solos at Regional. Chloe Dollarhide and Eli Perry earned Excellent ratings.

Advancing to state for their solo performances are Brady Nolan, John Riley Jimenez, Cullen Jones, Savannah Lindsey, Campbell Oliver,  Alex Prater and Riley Selman. Advancing for ensemble performances are Jones, Gracie Roark, Henry Suggs, Matthew Fridinger, Lindsey, Jaycee Nabors, Ryan Taylor, Haidyn Hokit, Oliver and Selman.

Also recognized were members of the Fishing Team Walker London and Bayne Bacon and Austin Carr and Robert Walker, 12th and 14th at Sam Rayburn East Division on Feb. 19. Also recognized were Eric Dowling Jayden Singletary and Ryan Harper.

Cheryll Milgrim, District Coordinator for the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, gave an update on her program. Elements of the update presented as a digital presentation for the trustees was made available as part of the meeting report and is accessible .

Feb. 20, 2022

Frankston First Baptist to present

two public concerts on Feb. 20, 27

First Baptist Church of Frankston will be presenting two concerts in their University Concert Series, one on Sunday, Feb. 20 and another on Sunday, Feb. 27, both at 3 p.m., at the church sanctuary.

Both concerts are free and open to the public, according to church spokespersons.

On Sunday, Feb. 20, The University of Mary Hardin Baylor will present “One Voice” in concert. The choral ensemble repertoire consists of both contemporary and classical music performed with the whole family in mind.

Then on Sunday, Feb. 27, The voice of “Aggieland”, the Texas A&M University Singing Cadets will be in concert. The Singing Cadets are described as one of the oldest collegiate singing organizations in the world. They have toured in America and abroad and have earned recognition for doing so, including invitations to sing for American presidents.

For more information, those interested may call (903) 876-2411 or visit the First Baptist Church website at www.fbcfrankston.org .

Feb. 18, 2022

FISD reports one student case

of confirmed COVID  Feb. 18

One additional student has been lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 in a report on Friday, Feb. 18, according to Frankston ISD.

According to school protocol, all student families and staff members have been notified of the new case in which the individual was last on campus on Feb. 2.

The new case brings the total of students contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 178. The staff member total remains at 81 for an overall total of 259 confirmed since school opening.

In the last report on Monday, Feb. 7, three staff members, last on campus Jan. 21, Jan. 26 and Feb. 1 were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to a notification sent student families and staff members.

Those new cases brought the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 81. The student total, at that time, remained at 177 for an overall total of 258 cases confirmed since school opening.

Prior to the Feb. 7 report, a student, last on campus on Jan. 27, and a staff member, last on campus on Jan. 28, were added Jan. 31 to the list of confirmed cases reported since August 2021.

Those cases brought the total of students to 177 and staff members to 78 for an overall total of 255 since the opening of school.

On Friday, Jan. 28, two notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that two more students and two more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 and indicated the last times those individuals were on campus. Those new cases brought the totals for students to 176, and the staff total rose to 77 for an overall total of 253 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date since the opening of school are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

Feb. 15, 2022

Area cities get sales  tax

allocations in February

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the February 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville, Coffee City, Poynor and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

All area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $46,723.08 for February   compared to a $38,261.82 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 22.11 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $88,787.14 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $71,661.92 a gain of 23.89 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $3,745.00 for February compared to a $2,861.90 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 30.85 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $6,755.24 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $4,966.02, a gain of 36.02 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $29,845.14 for February  compared to a $28,410.65 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 5.04 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $51,575.33 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $48,075.80, a gain of 7.27 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $5,945.68 for February compared to a $3,511.43 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 69.32 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $9,037.05 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $6,189.73 a gain of 46.00 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,498.07 for February compared to a $1,366.94 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 9.59 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $2,728.23 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $2,638.09, an increase of 3.41 percent.

Feb. 9, 2022

UMC Frankston sets Blood Drive

with Carter BloodCare on Feb. 9

Carter BloodCare is in critical need for blood donations and The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be trying to help.

A blood drive is scheduled  for Wednesday, Feb. 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UMC Family Life Center, 161 S. Weldon St. in Frankston.

Carter BloodCare will be onsite to take donations and  COVID-19 antibody tests will be available on all successful donations

Donors are asked to scheduled an appointment before arriving. If online access is available potential donors are asked to complete an online questionnaire prior to their appointment

Potential donors are informed that if they have contracted COVID-19 and are fully recovered, they are eligible to donate blood 10 days after all symptoms have disappeared. Individuals who are fully recovered from COVID-19 who may be interested in convalescent plasma donations are also informed of that opportunity.

To schedule an appointment online those interested may visit http://www.carterbloodcare.org/ . They may also call (903) 363-0400 .

Feb. 8, 2022

Mayor suggests other street

improvement option needs

The Frankston City Council will be looking for other options for the city’s plans to undertake a comprehensive street improvement project following a revelation by Mayor Tommy Carr at the Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 8, according to unofficial minutes reported by City Secretary Kelli Casey Landreth-Smith.

The mayor informed the Council that due to the fact that the city freezes taxes for property owners age 65 and older, one-third of the taxpayers would be exempt from contributing to the street project. That would mean that two-thirds of taxpayers would be paying toward an interest and sinking fund which would be used to retire any Certificates of Obligation proposed as a means of financing the project, he explained. As a result, more research is needed to discover what other options the city has for improvements of streets, the mayor said.

Earlier in the meeting, the Council voted to accept the resignation of Place 5 Council member Greg Main and approved the appointment of former Mayor Gerald Hall to the vacated Place 5 seat. Hall was administered the oath of office by City Secretary Casey Landreth-Smith.

In other matters, the Council approved unanimously a revised ordinance announced at a prior meeting to designate a Reinvestment Zone at 699 N. Frankston Highway occupied by Frankston Packaging, formerly known as Frankston Paper Box factory. The Council had previously adopted a Revised Guidelines and Criteria for Tax Abatement which would be used in formulating the ordinance.

The Council considered a Resolution for Tax Credit after a request by Paul Farmer, Vice President, representing Candlewood Village. Farmer explained to the Council that Candlewood is applying for a tax credit provided by the state. He said it is based on a point system and that Council support would help the facility gain additional points required to qualify. He also said that the city granting a $250 waiver on an upcoming permit fee was being sought. Following Mr. Farmer’s request and explanation, the Council voted unanimously to approve the resolution and waiver.

Additionally, the Council unanimously approved submitting an application for a $66,700 grant for the Frankston Police Department to purchase License Plate Readers.

At the request of the Frankston Garden Club, the Council approved planting of a Memorial Tree for Terry Bacon in the Town Square City Park.

The Council also approved appointment of Council member Roger McDonald to the Anderson County Appraisal District Board of Directors. They also approved appointment of Ron Stutes from the Wilson Law Firm as City Attorney.

Consideration of the final audit report from Acker and Company and the Racial Profiling Report from the Police Department was tabled until the reports are completed.

Mayor Carr presented Frankston Police Chief Darren Goodman and the Frankston Police Department with a certificate of appreciation for their zero tolerance campaign over New Year’s Eve. He also spoke about Bulk Water Sales and said he felt it was important for the city to protect its water supply and not supply massive amounts of bulk water for large projects.

In announcements, the Council was reminded of the Art Walk on April 30. It was also noted that new officer Kristen Green had graduated from the Academy and started on the job training. Also announced was that the Farmers’ Market opens on April 16 and that 12 vendors had been approved so far.

After various departmental reports, the meeting was adjourned.

Feb. 7, 2022

Frankston EDC board defers plan

to purchase land near city park

The Frankston Economic Development Board has decided to defer action on a contract to purchase 3.14 acres of land southwest of the Town Square City Park and consider other options while they use EDC funds for other projects in the area, according to a report by Kelli Casey Landreth-Smith, secretary.

The directors also approved acquiring the services of Civic Plus as the new website provider.

After consideration and research, the Board decided to deny approval of participation in the Regional Broadband Local Match. Part of the information learned indicated that the program involves local entities contributing a portion of funds required to conduct a study on improving broadband service in the East Texas area. Information received indicates that the East Texas Council of Governments has received a 70 percent federal grant and is seeking the balance of funding from governmental entities in the East Texas area.

The directors are continuing their study of the look and effectiveness of a promotional sign for the city to be placed at the location of the Frankston Volunteer Fire Department, just east of the Frankston Depot Library on SH 155. Board President Jim Dwyer plans to discuss the location with Fire Chief Doug Hicks.

The board decided to keep the same budget as last year to help finance the Art Walk on the Square. Director Gigi Selman said she has a lot of artists interested. It was also suggested that a need exists to attract more artists to display their work in the Town Square City Park since buildings on the square are now filling up with tenants.

Directors also discussed changing the Music Festival from May to June. The board approved a motion to allow Festival organizer Monica Atwood to set a date for the event.

Visitors at the meeting, Garrett and Carey Moynihan, asked about a recycling program and expressed an interest in getting more involved.

Board members present were Dwyer, Gigi Selman, Patty Lookabaugh, Judy McNeill, Barbara Simpson and Jamey Lade.

Feb. 7, 2022

FISD reports three more staff

COVID cases confirmed Feb. 7

Numbers of staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased on Monday, Feb. 7, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

Three staff members, last on campus Jan. 21, Jan. 26 and Feb. 1 were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to a notification sent student families and staff members on Monday, Feb. 7.

The new cases bring the total of staff members contracting the virus since the opening of school in August 2021 to 81. The student total remains at 177. Overall there have been 258 cases confirmed since school opening.

Prior to this report, a student, last on campus on Jan. 27, and a staff member, last on campus on Jan. 28, were added Jan. 31 to the list of confirmed cases reported since August 2021.

Those cases brought the total of students to 177 and staff members to 78 for an overall total of 255 since the opening of school.

On Friday, Jan. 28, two notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that two more students and two more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Tuesday, Jan. 25 and another student was last on campus Friday, Jan. 21, according to the notifications. The two staff members were last on campus on Monday, Jan. 24 and Thursday, Jan. 27, respectively.

Those new cases brought the totals for students to 176, and the staff total rose to 77 for an overall total of 253 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

Jan. 31, 2022

One student, one staff FISD

COVID cases reported Jan. 31

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased on Monday, Jan. 31, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

A student, last on campus on Jan. 27, and a staff member, last on campus on Jan. 28, were added to the list of confirmed cases reported since August 2021.

The new cases raise the total of students to 177 and staff members to 78 for an overall total of 255 since the opening of school.

On Friday, Jan. 28, two notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that two more students and two more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Tuesday, Jan. 25 and another student was last on campus Friday, Jan. 21, according to the notifications. The two staff members were last on campus on Monday, Jan. 24 and Thursday, Jan. 27, respectively.

Those new cases brought the totals for students to 176, and the staff total rose to 77 for an overall total of 253 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Three notifications sent to parents and staff members on Tuesday, Jan. 25 stated that eight more students and three more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Wednesday, Jan. 12 and another student was last on campus Jan. 11, according to the notifications. Two students were last on campus Jan. 13 and three others on campus Jan. 19. The three staff members were reported last on campus on Jan. 21.

The Jan. 25 cases brought totals for students to 174 while the staff total increased to 75 for an overall total of 249 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

Jan. 28, 2022

Two student, two staff FISD

COVID cases reported Jan. 28

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased on Friday, Jan. 28, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

Two notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that two more students and two more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Tuesday, Jan. 25 and another student was last on campus Friday, Jan. 21, according to the notifications. The two staff members were last on campus on Monday, Jan. 24 and Thursday, Jan. 27, respectively.

The new cases brought the totals for students to 176, and the staff total rose to 77 for an overall total of 253 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Three notifications sent to parents and staff members on Tuesday, Jan. 25 stated that eight more students and three more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Wednesday, Jan. 12 and another student was last on campus Jan. 11, according to the notifications. Two students were last on campus Jan. 13 and three others on campus Jan. 19. The three staff members were reported last on campus on Jan. 21.

The Jan. 25 cases brought totals for students to 174 while the staff total increased to  75 for an overall total of 249 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Two notifications sent to parents and staff members on Jan. 21 stated that two more students were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Thursday, Jan. 20 and the other student was last on campus Jan. 14, according to the notifications.

Those Jan. 21 cases brought totals for students to 166 while the staff total remained at 72 for an overall total of 238 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.  

Jan. 25, 2022

Eight student, three staff FISD

COVID cases reported Jan. 25

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased on Tuesday, Jan. 25, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

Three notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that eight more students and three more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Wednesday, Jan. 12 and another student was last on campus Jan. 11, according to the notifications. Two students were last on campus Jan. 13 and three others on campus Jan. 19. The three staff members were reported last on campus on Jan. 21.

The new cases brought totals for students to 174 while the staff total increased to 75 for an overall total of 249 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Two notifications sent to parents and staff members on Jan. 21 stated that two more students were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Thursday, Jan. 20 and the other student was last on campus Jan. 14, according to the notifications.

Those new cases brought totals for students to 166 while the staff total remained at 72 for an overall total of 238 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

The number of confirmed cases reported since a report on Jan. 19 has increased by 22, including 17 students and 5 staff members. On that report there had been an increase of 25 students and 12 staff members, the largest increase during one reporting period.

The Jan. 19 report brought the overall total since the beginning of school in August 2021 to 227, including 157 students and 70 staff members.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

Jan. 24, 2022

FISD trustees eye annual report

at public hearing, regular meet

The Frankston Independent School District Annual Report was the subject of a public hearing and was published as provided by the Texas education code as part of the Monday, Jan. 24 regular meeting of the FISD Board of Trustees, according to a report by Supt. Nicci Cook.

Elements of a summary of the report were presented to the board as part of the hearing. It included the 2020-2021 District Accreditation Status, the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR), the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) Financial Standard Reports, the Campus Performance Objectives, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board report and the Report of Violent or Criminal Incidents.

A summary of these reports is available on the complete report to be available on the FISD website at www.frankstonisd.net/Content2/54 .

In the separate meeting of the board, the trustees approved 6-0 the consent agenda which included a resolution of annual review of the FISD investment policy and approval of an out-of-state field trip.

Consideration of a resolution to approve leave for personnel who were required to be absent because of COVID-19 reasons was removed from the consent agenda but no action was taken on the agenda item in later deliberations.

In action items, the trustees approved 6-0 participation by the Board of Trustees in the Lone Star Governance training.

In other matters during the meeting, the Board of Trustees was recognized as a part of School Board Recognition Month. Board members are Junior Mascorro, J.R. Newman, Brian Merritt, Sheila Smith, Ryan Bizzell, Dustin Holladay and Joe Reed.

The board went into closed session to discuss evaluation of the superintendent. After returning to open session, the trustees voted to defer making any changes in the superintendent’s contract which expires in June of 2024.

The board heard various reports from campus principals and other administrators.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported on various extra-curricular and athletic activities. She said middle school enrollment was 202.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell recognized the Indians of the Month in the first grade. They are Norah Clifton, Riley Hudson and Nathan King. She also recognized fourth grade teacher April Dowling as the Frankston Elementary School outstanding teacher. She also made note of such activities as Teacher Planning Days, Atten-Dance Party, Mid-Year MAP testing, a fifth grade Medieval Times Trip, BRAVES trips and Parent-Teacher Conferences set for Feb. 11. She reported that the elementary school enrollment was 368.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported on various activities. He also recognized Brianna Looney as the Texas Farm Bureau Student of the Month. He said his campus’ enrollment was 232, with 66 ninth graders, 60 tenth graders, 63 eleventh graders and 43 twelfth graders.

Business manager Randi Westbrook gave an update on various finances and facilities. She reported that work on the athletic track was proceeding on schedule so far.

Supt Nicci Cook reported that FISD had received a grant from Region 7 to hire a registered nurse (RN) with salary funding for 15 months.

She confirmed overall district enrollment presented by the principals. She said current district enrollment is 802, up by eight students since the opening of school on Aug. 16, 2021. She said it compares with the 2021-22 Snapshot enrollment of 809 on Oct. 29, 2021. She said the number of COVID-19 cases since August 2021 was 238 as of Jan. 24, with 166 students or 20.6 percent and 72 staff members or 48.6 per cent.

Jan. 21, 2022

Only two more student FISD

COVID cases reported Jan. 21

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 were down Friday, Jan. 21, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

Two notifications sent to parents and staff members stated that two more students were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. One student was last on campus on Thursday, Jan. 20 and the other student was last on campus Jan. 14, according to the notifications.

The new cases brought totals for students to 166 while the staff total remained at 72 for an overall total of 238 since the beginning of school in August 2021.

Supt. Nicci Cook said she is hoping that the lower number on Jan. 21 means that the incidence of cases is beginning to decline.

On Jan. 20 a letter to parents and staff members indicated that four students, three last on campus on Jan. 13 and one on Jan. 18, and two staff members, one each last on campus on Jan. 14 and Jan. 18, were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. Another notification the same day indicated that three students, one last on campus on Jan. 13 and two more on Jan. 14 were confirmed.

As of that Jan. 20 report, 164 students and 72 staff members for an overall total of 236 had been confirmed since the beginning of school  in August 2021.

A Jan. 19 report contained in three notification letters to parents and staff members indicated that 25 students and 12 staff members had been confirmed in that count to be infected with the virus.

One student was reported to have last been on campus on Friday, Jan. 7.

Twelve students had last been on campus on the following dates: four on Jan. 13, five on Jan. 14, two on Jan. 18 and one on Jan. 19. Six staff members were last on campus on Jan. 14.

Another confirmed group of four students had last been on campus on the following dates: one each on Jan 12 and Jan. 13, and two on Jan. 14. Two staff members were last on campus on Jan. 13 and 14 respectively.

Among a third confirmed group were four staff members, last on campus as follows: one on Jan 10 and three on Jan. 14. Eight other students confirmed were last on campus as follows: two on Jan. 10, one each on Jan 11 and Jan. 12 and four on Jan. 14.

The Jan. 19 report brought the overall total since the beginning of school in August 2021 to 227, including 157 students and 70 staff members.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

The cases are being handled, as others, with health department contact tracing and quarantine periods, according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Cook said.

Jan. 20, 2022

Library, museum board approves

finances, 2022 officers, directors

Directors of the Frankston Depot Library and Museum Inc. Thursday, Jan. 20 approved a budget for 2022 and the financial report for 2021 while electing directors and officers for the new year at their annual meeting.

The new budget anticipates increases in personnel compensation along with increases in revenue sources. The financial statement for 2021 showed that the corporation ended the year under budget, realizing revenues in excess of expenditures.

Three officers were re-elected and one new officer elected by the board. Re-elected were Jim Dwyer as president, Joe W. Tindel Sr. as vice president and Amber Nabors as treasurer. Elected secretary was Monica Atwood.

The 2021 directors elected four new directors: Cody Newton, Monica Atwood, Rita Pannell and Bianca DeMers. Others on the 15-member board were re-elected. The current president of the Friends of the Library will continue as a board member.

Library Director and Board Member Sabrina Carter reported that progress is being made on increasing the number of library patrons which had declined as a result of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. She also hopes to resume the Children’s Program with the expected availability of someone to head the program.

Ms Carter said a room in the library has been converted into a meeting room for use by library patrons with laptops and to read and study. She said the room is also being used by some outside groups by arrangement, and rules of use are being formulated. She said it also has the potential of being used for children’s story time when that program resumes.

Thanks to a donation earlier, four new computers and a few children’s books were purchased, the library director reported. She also reported that donations are being received as a result of an option on city water bills to donate to the library.

Her report also gave statistics on miscellaneous receipts, end-of-year book totals, new members, patrons and materials.

In the Friends of the Library Report, board member Rita Pannell said the organization’s fund raiser this year is the sale of ornaments of the depot building. She said they are being sold for $15 each or two for $28 as keepsakes from the library for travelers and citizens desiring to purchase them. The report also noted receipts from periodic automatic deposits from various individuals and from the Square Fair book sale.

President Dwyer reported that the Economic Development Corp. plans to finance improvements in heating and air conditioning equipment at the Kathleen Cook Museum as well as reporting on other capital improvements and maintenance at both the museum and the library.

The board meets annually in January and in special meetings when necessary.

Jan. 20, 2022

Student, staff cases of COVID-19

increase in Jan. 20 FISD report

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased further Thursday, Jan. 20, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

A letter to parents and staff members sent on Jan. 20 indicated that four students, three last on campus on Jan. 13 and one on Jan. 18, and two staff members, one each last on campus on Jan. 14 and Jan. 18, were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19. Another notification indicated that three students, one last on campus on Jan. 13 and two more on Jan. 14 were confirmed.

The new cases bring the totals to 164 students and 72 staff members for an overall total of 236 since the beginning of school  in August 2021.

The Jan. 19 report contained in notifications to parents and staff members indicated that 25 students and 12 staff members had been confirmed in that count to be infected with the virus. The report indicated the students and staff that last had been on campus at various times earlier in the week.

One student was reported to have last been on campus on Friday, Jan. 7.

Twelve students had last been on campus on the following dates: four on Jan. 13, five on Jan. 14, two on Jan. 18 and one on Jan. 19. Six staff members were last on campus on Jan. 14.

Another confirmed group of four students had last been on campus on the following dates: one each on Jan 12 and Jan. 13, and two on Jan. 14. Two staff members were last on campus on Jan. 13 and 14 respectively.

Among a third confirmed group were four staff members, last on campus as follows: one on Jan 10 and three on Jan. 14. Eight other students confirmed were last on campus as follows: two on Jan. 10, one each on Jan 11 and Jan. 12 and four on Jan. 14.

The Jan. 19 report brought the overall total since the beginning of school in August 2021 to 227, including 157 students and 70 staff members.

Three notification letters were sent, one for each of the above groups.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

As in previous cases, the local health department will begin case investigations and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with those infected. Any students and staff that came in close contact will be directly notified.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

Jan. 19, 2022

Student, staff cases of COVID-19

increase in Jan. 19 FISD report

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased further Wednesday, Jan. 19, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

The report contained in notifications to parents and staff members indicated that 25 students and 12 staff members had been confirmed in the Jan. 19 count to be infected with the virus. The report indicated the students and staff that last had been on campus at various times earlier in the week.

One student was reported to have last been on campus on Friday, Jan. 7.

Twelve students had last been on campus on the following dates: four on Jan. 13, five on Jan. 14, two on Jan. 18 and one on Jan. 19. Six staff members were last on campus on Jan. 14.

Another confirmed group of four students had last been on campus on the following dates: one each on Jan 12 and Jan. 13, and two on Jan. 14. Two staff members were last on campus on Jan. 13 and 14 respectively.

Among a third confirmed group were four staff members, last on campus as follows: one on Jan 10 and three on Jan. 14. Eight other students confirmed were last on campus as follows: two on Jan. 10, one each on Jan 11 and Jan. 12 and four on Jan. 14.

The new report brings the overall total since the beginning of school in August 2021 to 227, including 157 students and 70 staff members.

Three notification letters were sent, one for each of the above groups.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

As in previous cases, the local health department will begin case investigations and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with those infected. Any students and staff that came in close contact will be directly notified.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

Jan. 14, 2022

Student, staff cases of COVID-19

reported by FISD increase Jan. 14

Numbers of students and staff members who were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 increased further Friday, Jan. 14, according to a report from Frankston ISD.

The report contained in notifications to parents and staff members indicated that 38 students and 5 staff members had been confirmed in the Jan. 14 count to be infected with the virus. The report indicated the students and staff that last had been on campus at various times earlier in the week.

Two students and one staff member were reported to have last been on campus on Friday, Jan. 7.

Seven students had last been on campus on the following dates: one on Jan.10 and 2 each on Jan. 11, Jan. 12, and Jan. 13. Two of the five staff members were last on campus on Jan. 12.

Another confirmed group of 19 students had last been on campus on the following dates: one each on Jan 11 and Jan. 14, two on Jan. 10, six on Jan. 12 and nine on Jan. 13.

Among a third confirmed group were two staff members, last on campus on Jan 12 and Jan. 14. Ten other students confirmed were last on campus as follows: one each on Jan. 11, 12  and 14, two on Jan. 10 and five on Jan. 13.

The new report brings the overall total since the beginning of school in August 2021 to 190, including 132 students and 58 staff members.

Due to privacy requirements the FISD will not be be releasing the names of infected individuals.

The dates of reports and the number of individuals confirmed on each date are included on the FISD COVID Dashboard on the school website.

As in previous cases, the local health department will begin case investigations and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with those infected. Any students and staff that came in close contact will be directly notified.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and on notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Nicci Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

Jan. 13, 2022

FISD reports six staff, eight

students with COVID cases  

Frankston Schools reported on Thursday, Jan. 13 and Wednesday, Jan. 12 that more students and more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to notifications sent by the school.

On Thursday, Jan. 13, school notifications reported that one student, last on campus on Friday, Jan. 7, two students, last on campus Jan. 11 and 12, and one staff member, last on campus Jan. 12, were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19.

The notifications on Jan. 12 indicated that four students, last on campus on Friday, Jan. 7, Monday, Jan. 10, and Tuesday, Jan. 11, and one staff member, last on campus on Jan. 11, were confirmed to have COVID-19. Four other staff members, last on campus Jan. 11, and another student, last on campus Jan. 11, were confirmed to be infected with the virus.

The new cases bring the overall total since the beginning of school in August to 94 students and 53 staff members for an overall total of 147 since August 2021, according to calculations after the report.

A report on Jan. 10 indicated that one student and two staff members, last on campus on Jan. 7, 2021 and on campus the previous week, were confirmed to have COVID-19, along with three students who tested positive and were not on campus the previous week. Another staff member and a student lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 were also on campus the week before, last present on Jan. 7.

Those cases brought the overall total since the beginning of school in August to 86 students and 47 staff members for an overall total of 133, according to calculations after the report.

A Jan. 7 report indicated that one more student (last date on campus 1/6/22) was lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 bringing the overall total to 81 students and 44 staff members since the opening of school in August.

Three student and one staff cases reported on Jan. 6 brought the overall total to 80 students and 44 staff members for a total of 124 since the opening of school in August, the FISD report indicated.

On Wednesday, Jan. 5, the FISD had reported five new staff and nine new COVID-19 student cases were lab-confirmed during the winter break.The student and staff cases reported on Jan. 5 brought the overall total to 77 students and 43 staff members for a total of 120 since the opening of school in August, according to that report.

The Jan. 5 report was the first case or cases to be reported since Dec. 16, prior to the winter break, when a student, last on campus on Dec. 15, was lab-confirmed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus.

Due to privacy requirements, the FISD will not be releasing the names of the individuals or details that may identify them.

As in previous cases, the local health department has begun a case investigation and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with the infected individuals. All students and staff that came into close contact will be directly notified.

All previous confirmed cases including the ones reported on Dec. 16, Jan. 5, Jan. 6, Jan. 7 and Jan. 10, along with the new cases reported on Jan. 12 have been added to the school Dashboard.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

Jan. 10, 2022

Frankston EDC to do more research

on plans to purchase land near park

The Frankston Economic Development Corp. Board of Directors continued to map its plans for purchasing of 3.14 acres of land southwest of the Town Square City Park by deciding to conduct more research before moving ahead with a contract for purchase of the property, according to minutes from the board’s meeting by Kelli Landreth-Smith, secretary.

The board unanimously approved initiation of a title search as part of continuing research in their January meeting.

In other action, the board approved dates for upcoming community events. They approved April 30 as the date for the annual Art Walk on the Square and May 14 from 6 to 9 p.m. for the Concert in the Park. Further details on both of these events will be forthcoming as the dates for the events approach.

The Board also approved Dace Kidd as the artist for a crosswalk in the downtown square area. The proposed location for a picturesque crosswalk will be on the north side of the intersection of South Commerce and West Main Street on the town square.

Directors considered purchase of Christmas decorations for the Town Square City Park and took a first step in that project by agreeing to seek bids before approving any purchase.

They also discussed acquiring a new website provider for the city but called for more research on prospects before any decision is made.

The board also began consideration of participation in the Regional Broadband Local Match and directors had a lot of questions regarding the program.

Preliminary information indicates that the program involves local entities contributing a portion of funds required to conduct a study on improving broadband service in the East Texas area. The information received so far indicates that the East Texas Council of Governments has received a 70 percent federal grant and is seeking the balance of funding from governmental entities in the East Texas area. Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith was delegated to contact the ETCOG to receive further information.

Board members are President Jim Dwyer, Vice President Monica Atwood, Gigi Selman, Patty Lookabaugh, Judy McNeill, Barbara Simpson and Jamey Lade. Kelli Landreth-Smith is secretary.

Jan. 10, 2022

FISD reports three staff, five

student COVID cases Jan. 10

Frankston Schools reported on Monday, Jan. 10 that five more students and three more staff members were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The report indicated that one student and two staff members, last on campus on Jan. 7, 2022 and on campus last week, were confirmed to have COVID-19, along with three students who tested positive and were not on campus last week. Another staff member and a student lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 were also on campus last week, last present on Jan. 7.

The new cases brings the overall total since the beginning of school in August to 86 students and 47 staff members for an overall total of 133 since August 2021, according to calculations after the report.

A Jan. 7 report indicated that one more student (last date on campus 1/6/22) was lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 bringing the overall total to 81 students and 44 staff members since the opening of school in August.

Three student and one staff cases reported on Jan. 6 brought the overall total to 80 students and 44 staff members for a total of 124 since the opening of school in August, the FISD report indicated.

On Wednesday, Jan. 5, the FISD had reported five new staff and nine new COVID-19 student cases were lab-confirmed during the winter break.The student and staff cases reported on Jan. 5 brought the overall total to 77 students and 43 staff members for a total of 120 since the opening of school in August, according to Supt. Cook.

The Jan. 5 report was the first case or cases to be reported since Dec. 16, prior to the winter break, when a student, last on campus on Dec. 15, was lab-confirmed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus. At that time 68 students and 38 staff members had been confirmed to be infected with the virus since the of opening of school, according to that report.

Due to privacy requirements, the FISD will not be releasing the names of the individuals or details that may identify them.

As in previous cases, the local health department has begun a case investigation and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with the infected individuals. All students and staff that came into close contact will be directly notified. Those who were in close contact will remain off campus for up to 14 days to ensure they do not have the virus, so there will not be any further spread, according to the FISD notification.

All previous confirmed cases including the ones reported on Dec. 16, Jan. 5, Jan. 6, Jan. 7 along with the new cases reported on Jan. 10 have been added to the school Dashboard.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

Jan. 5, 2022

Area cities get sales  tax

allocations in January

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the January 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville, Coffee City, and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $42,064.06 for January   compared to a $33,400.10 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 25.93 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $42,064.06 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $33,400.10, a gain of 25.93 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $3,010.24 for January compared to a $2,104.12 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 43.06 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $3,010.24 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $2,104.12, a gain of 43.06 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $21,730.19 for January  compared to a $19,665.15 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 10.50 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $21,730.19 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $19,665.15, a gain of 10.50 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,091.37 for January compared to a $2,678.30 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 15.42 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $3,091.37 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $2,678.30, a gain of 15.42 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,230.16 for January compared to a $1,271.15 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 3.22 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $1,230.16 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $1,271.15, a decrease of 3.22 percent.

Jan. 5, 2022

FISD reports five staff, nine

student COVID cases Jan. 5

Frankston Schools, on Wednesday, Jan. 5, reported five new staff and nine new COVID-19 student cases lab-confirmed during the winter break, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.  

Due to privacy requirements, the FISD will not be releasing the names of the individuals or details that may identify them.

The student and staff cases bring the overall total to 77 students and 43 staff members for a total of 120 since the opening of school in August, according to Supt. Cook.

As in previous cases, the local health department has begun a case investigation and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with the infected individuals. All students and staff that came into close contact will be directly notified. Those who were in close contact will remain off campus for up to 14 days to ensure they do not have the virus, so there will not be any further spread, according to the FISD notification.

This was the first report of a case or cases since Dec. 16, prior to the winter break, when a student, last on campus on Dec. 15, was lab-confirmed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus. At that time 68 students and 38 staff members had been confirmed to be infected with the virus since the of opening of school

On Dec. 6, a staff member was reported lab-confirmed for COVID-19. The individual was last on campus on Nov. 30, bringing the staff total to 38, according to that report.

On Nov. 29 a student was reported lab-confirmed for COVID-19. The  student was last on campus on Nov. 19, prior to the Thanksgiving break, that report said.

The student case brought the student total to 67 along with 37 staff members for a total of 104 since the opening of school in August, it was reported by FISD at the time.

All previous confirmed cases, including the ones reported on Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and  Dec. 16 along with the new cases reported on Jan. 5 have been added to the school Dashboard.

The cases are being handled according to FISD safety and health protocols, outlined on the school Dashboard web page and notifications sent to parents and staff, Supt. Cook said.

The FISD notification states that while there is no reason to believe that those who were in close contact with the infected individuals have reason to be concerned, it is advised that they and any member of the FISD community watch for the symptoms widely reported by school and health officials and report to a physician any which are cause for concern.

April 8, 2022

Concession stand sales to help fund

Carl House Dual Credit Scholarships

The Scholarship Committee of The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be operating the concession stands at softball and baseball games between Frankston and LaPoynor on Friday, April 8 at Frankston to benefit the Carl House Dual Credit Scholarship Fund, it was announced by the committee.

The games will begin at 5 p.m., first with a softball game between the Frankston Maidens and the LaPoynor Lady Flyers, followed at about 7 p.m. by a baseball game between the Frankston Indians and LaPoynor Flyers. The games are expected to end around 9 p.m.

The committee plans to sell the usual concession items, but also they will be selling a pulled pork sandwich plate, including baked beans and potato salad, for $10.

All proceeds from the concession stands on that date will be used to aid students taking dual credit classes while in high school, leading to a possible Associate of Arts (AA) degree.

The funds raised at the concession stand will help finance scholarships to those students who are unable, financially, to pay the tuition costs of college classes, according to the committee.

The scholarship program, about 10 years old, has been described as very successful in providing help to deserving students who desire to begin their college careers while in high school. The committee cites many success stories that started with the help received from the Carl House Dual Credit Scholarship Fund.

Fans of both Frankston and LaPoynor  have been urged to attend the softball and baseball games to support their teams and this scholarship program. In addition to raising funds through sale of concession items, the committee welcomes additional donations to the scholarship fund.

The April 8 date is one of two dates provided by Frankston ISD for operation of the concession stands at home games by the scholarship committee. The other date has not been set but will be announced when determined.

April 8, 2022

UMC Frankston sets Blood Drive

with Carter BloodCare on April 8

Carter BloodCare is in critical need for blood donations and The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be trying to help.

A blood drive is scheduled  for Friday, April 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UMC Family Life Center, 161 S. Weldon St. in Frankston.

Carter BloodCare will be onsite to take donations.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment before arriving. If online access is available, potential donors are asked to complete an online questionnaire prior to their appointment..

Potential donors are informed that if they have contracted COVID-19 and are fully recovered, they are eligible to donate blood 10 days after all symptoms have disappeared.

To schedule an appointment online those interested may visit http://www.carterbloodcare.org/ . They may also call (903) 363-0400 .

CHRISTMAS PARTY — Members and guests of the Lake Palestine United Methodist Church gathered on Friday night, Dec. 16 for their Christmas party at the church, overlooking Lake Palestine. Finger foods were enjoyed and  gifts were exchanged during the evening. — Citizen Photo

Dec. 15,  2022

Area cities get sales tax

allocations in December

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the December 2022 period showing increases for Frankston, Berryville, Coffee City and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

Frankston, Berryville, Cuney and Coffee City reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $40,620.35 for December   compared to a $39,684.85 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 2.35 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $516,861.81 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $450,019.25, a gain of 14.85 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $3,125.66 for December compared to a $2,691.75 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 16.11 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $35,199.61 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $29,582.71, a gain of 18.98 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $20,113.50 for December  compared to a $18,982.12 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 5.96 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $250,455.93 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $248,302.68, an increase of 0.86 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,170.81 for December compared to a $3,103.08 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 2.18 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $40,505.43 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $35,437.99, a gain of 14.29 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,263.28 for December compared to a $2,734.47 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 53.80 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $15,180.20 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $16,507.86, a decrease of 8.04 percent.

See Christmas in the Park Story, Pictures HERE

Dec. 10,  2022

June 26, 2022

Hilltop Baptist Church to hear

report on Africa Mission Trip

Four members of Hilltop Baptist Church, joined by four members from two other churches, participated in a mission trip to Mzuzu, Malawi, Africa from May 31 through June 9.

Trip participants gave a trip report Sunday, June 26, at Hilltop Baptist Church, during the evening service, beginning at 6 p.m. Pastor Randall Jinkins said the report showed how God worked during this brief trip and how over 20,000 people responded to the Gospel message.

Everyone returned safely to the U.S.A. on Saturday, June 11. Members of Hilltop who participated were Gordon Folmar, Dianne Burgamy, Tracy Jinkins and pastor, Randall Jinkins.  They were joined by Malinda Patton, Jill Loar and pastor, Scott Loar of Fairview Baptist Church in Town Bluff, Texas, and Dr. Richard Harvey, pastor of Cross Baptist Church of Eufala, Alabama.

The trip was evangelistic in nature with the men preaching in 45 schools, showing the Jesus Film 25 times, preaching in three prisons, and sponsoring a Football/Netball Bonanza with over 1,000 in attendance, where Scott Loar preached at halftime. The ladies conducted Women’s Conferences in four churches.

June 24, 2022

Life Line Screening to offer health

services at FLC on Friday, June 24

Life Line Screening will be at the Family Life Center of The United Methodist Church of Frankston on Friday, June 24 to provide preventative advanced ultrasound screening for arterial health, according to an announcement.

The organization is described as providing five screenings, including carotid artery, heart rhythm, abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease and osteoporosis risk. link

For more information or to make an appointment, interested persons may call (888) 653-6450.

A flyer provided by the company is available at the church office. It provides more information on the services to be offered.

June 20, 2022

FISD trustees approve salary scale,

student lunch prices for 2022-2023

Frankston School Board of Trustees approved the 2022-2023 teacher salary scale, school meal prices, and accepted Superintendent Guardrails and Progress Measures aligned to the Student Outcome Goals in their regular meeting on Monday, June 20, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

The trustees also approved all items on the consent agenda, including the 2022-2023 Region 7 Contract Services, a Public Notice of Intent to Apply for Federal Grant Funds and a Shared Service Agreement with Tyler ISD Regional Day School for the Deaf.

A tentative Budget Workshop for the board was set for Thursday, Aug. 4 at 6 p.m.

The Teacher Pay Scale for 2022-2023 ranged from $41,000 to a maximum of $58,000 at 20 years. A $2,000 stipend was set in each year of service.

The board okayed a 30-cent increase in student lunches and other increases as presented by Food Service for the 2022-2023 school year to offset increases in costs.

Business Manager Randi Westbrook gave an update on Finance and Facilities and the uses of federal Elementary and Secondary Emergency Relief grant funds.

The board also discussed other items, including school security, but no action on those discussion topics was taken at the meeting.

Supt. Cook reminded the board of the Summer Leadership Institute scheduled in San Antonio on June 16-18 and in Fort Worth on June 29-July 2.

Anyone requiring details on the board actions may contact the school office during summer hours.

June 14, 2022

Frankston Council approves submitting

FDLM contract for update in next year

The Frankston City Council, in their June meeting, approved the submitting of the contract with the Frankston Depot Library and Museum, Inc. (FDLM) for updating of current provisions pertaining to the Frankston Depot Library and the Kathleen Cook Fitzgerald Museum for the coming fiscal year, according to unofficial minutes submitted by City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The Council voted unanimously to submit the contract to the city attorney for updating outdated provisions and will vote on the updated contract and funding during budget deliberations.

In other action, following an executive session, the Council approved a $500 bonus to city employees. They also approved an ordinance to deny a rate increase by Oncor. The action is a routine action which is a step in the process pertaining to the company’s request for the increase with the Texas Public Utility Commission, which may or may not approve the increase, city officials explained.

The Council approved a request for variance on a mobile home already in existence after considering all options. In another matter, they unanimously approved a subplat of acreage on Garner Street.

Discussed by the Council were possible uses of the property formerly occupied by the nursing home and other complaints involving property and abandoned vehicles.

Mayor Tommy Carr informed the Council that he plans to start budget meetings at the first of August and would inform them of the date(s) later.

Following departmental reports, the meeting was adjourned.

June 12, 2022

Area cities get sales tax

allocations in June list

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the June 2022 period showing increases for Berryville and Cuney among  area cities over the prior period last year.

All area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $36,646.38 for June   compared to a $38,775.23 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 5.49 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $247,700.27 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $215,860.22 a gain of 14.75 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,710.39 for June compared to a $2,671.02 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 1.47 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $17,173.10 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $14,832.81, a gain of 15.77 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $20,955.57 for June  compared to a $21,272.88 payment a year ago. That’s an decrease of 1.49 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $126,487.60 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $124,738.25 a gain of 1.40 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,629.62 for June compared to a $3,107.30 payment a year ago. That’s an increase of 16.80 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $21,537.50 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $17,587.88 a gain of 22.45 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,036.31 for June compared to a $1,172.45 payment a year ago. That’s a decrease of 11.61 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $7,321.13 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $7,138.73, an increase of 2.55 percent.

June 11, 2022

13th annual Fish Fry scheduled June 11

to benefit Mikey Jones Scholarship Fund

The 13th annual Fish Fry, benefitting the Mikey Jones Scholarship Fund, has been scheduled for Saturday, June 11 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Family Life Center of  The United Methodist Church of Frankston.

Fried catfish, with all the trimmings, is $10 per plate and can be eaten inside or ordered to go. All proceeds benefit the fund.

The Mikey Jones Scholarship Fund is designed to aid students in achieving their academic goals beyond high school, especially those students with interests in the vocational and trade fields. Sponsors say thousands of dollars have been awarded to Frankston and LaPoynor students since the death of Mikey Jones. Currently one senior from each school receives $1,000 to further their education.

Mikey Jones has been described as a well-known mechanic in the area who inspired all who knew him with his amazing mechanical skill and a person who brought joy to the people of this community with his amazing perspective on life.

At the event, music will be provided by Joe Dale Dickerson’s Caddo Creek Band. The band is well known in the area and will provide music that can be enjoyed  by anyone interested in dancing.

The annual fish fry in Mikey Jones’ honor will be held again this year inside at the air conditioned United Methodist Church Family Life Center, located at the intersection of East Main Street and South Weldon Street, behind Austin Bank.

Due to the continuing risk from COVID-19, the scholarship committee hopes that each person will do whatever makes them comfortable regarding wearing of masks and consider getting all the COVID shots, for which they are eligible, if they have not done so.

In addition to attending the Fish Fry, those interested may contribute to the Mikey Jones Scholarship Fund at Austin Bank.

More information can be obtained by contacting Jerry Jones at (903) 724-0192.

June 10, 2022

UMC Frankston sets Blood Drive

with Carter BloodCare June 10

Carter BloodCare is in critical need for blood donations and The United Methodist Church of Frankston will be trying to help.

A blood drive is scheduled  for Friday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UMC Family Life Center, 161 S. Weldon St. in Frankston.

Carter BloodCare will be onsite to take donations.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment before arriving. If online access is available, potential donors are asked to complete an online questionnaire prior to their appointment.

Potential donors are informed that if they have contracted COVID-19 and are fully recovered, they are eligible to donate blood 10 days after all symptoms have disappeared.

To schedule an appointment online those interested may visit http://www.carterbloodcare.org/ . They may also call (903) 363-0400 .  

June 4,  2022