A former Manor Independent School District special education aide has been arrested on a charge of injury to a child, elderly individual or disabled individual after investigators documented more than 20 aggressive encounters with autistic elementary students.

Pamella Craig, 51, worked at Presidential Meadows Elementary School and is accused of at least 23 aggressive physical encounters with five students over 11 days, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by the Journal. All five students were 9 years old, nonverbal, diagnosed as autistic and unable to comprehend or communicate, police said.

Each incident was recorded on Manor Independent School District classroom cameras.

In one incident, records show, Craig grabbed a student by the face, jerked his head and screamed in his face four times. Another report said she forcefully made a female student pick up her toys and slammed her back into her chair Aug. 12. 

Police allege Craig forced students into their seats on several occasions, with records noting Craig told investigators she is “overly aggressive” with special education students.

Craig was booked into the Travis County Jail, in lieu of paying a $15,000 bond.

Families of students directly involved were notified, and Presidential Meadows staff have received additionaltraining, according to Principal Valiza Castro.

Craig’s arrest follows another booking of a former Presidential Meadows teacher, Michael Nathan, who was arrested earlier this month after allegedly assaulting a 9-year-old student. 

According to an affidavit, Nathan grabbed the student by the backpack during dismissal Aug. 25, pulled the child back into the building, slammed the student against a wall and pinned them with his forearm across the neck and chest for about 10 seconds. 

Nathan’s bond was set at $5,000 with a no-contact order.

Manor ISD stressed the two cases are unrelated.

“While these were isolated incidents that coincidentally occurred around the same time, our Presidential Meadows staff have received additional training focused on student management and appropriate employee conduct,” Castro wrote in a letter to families.

District officials said all employees undergo required criminal background checks and fingerprinting before being hired. The district acknowledged maintaining student safety requires ongoing training, oversight and accountability after employees begin working in schools.

The district offered no further comment upon request. 

Manuel Salgado, 22, met his ex-girlfriend Mariana Palacios at Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop Sept. 13 and fatally shot her at close range before turning the gun on himself, according to Bastrop police. Salgado was transported to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries two days later.

Austin police also responded Sept. 15 to a welfare check at 744 W. William Cannon Drive and found Desiree Guana, 27, dead from apparent gunshot wounds, officials said.

Investigators determined Guana had been living with Salgado and that he was romantically involved with both women. A preliminary investigation indicates he was responsible for both deaths, according to police.

The cases remain under investigation.

Officials said emergency crews responded about 8:34 p.m. Sept. 15 to the 16300 block of County Line Road. One adult was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim’s identity has not been released.

No further information was immediately available.

Investigators Monday remained tightlipped about the case, but did say it is an isolated incident and added there is “no threat” to the public.

According to a social-media post, officers rushed to 1200 Willow St. at 5:20 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, after receiving reports of two people suffering from gunshot wounds.

When police arrived, “One adult female with fatal injuries was located and one adult male with life-threatening injuries was on the scene.”

The man was taken by emergency medical services to an area hospital. His condition was not revealed by the authorities.

Identities will be released after relatives are notified, officers added.

Fisherman’s Park, located in a bend of the Colorado River, is a popular recreational destination spot.

The green-tinted bench was unveiled Sept. 10 during a ceremony featuring remarks from Mayor Theresa McShan, Public Works Director Michael Gonzales and retired pastor Sheldon Johnson. Morrow was an Elgin native born in 1964 and joined the city in 2019 following a career at the Texas State Capitol.

“I remember in his interview so long ago, John mentioned that he wasn’t ready to retire,” Gonzales said. “At his time with the city, John helped with just about anything and was happy to jump in.”

Morrow started in the parks division before switching to streets in 2023, while also assisting with special events and other city operations.

Those who knew him said they remember Morrow for his friendly personality and willingness to strike up a conversation.

The bench’s inscription reads: “A cherished friend to all, whose kindness and warmth will never be forgotten.”

Three multifamily housing developments under construction in Elgin are expected to bring more than 600 apartment units to the city, including one nearing its final stages.

Building Official Michael Hinds briefed city leaders earlier this month on the progress of Cedar Grove, The Katy and CMC Southside Apartments. Cedar Grove, a 231-unit development at 1600 Avenue C, is the furthest along, with completion projected in early 2027.

“They’re moving pretty quickly, so we should see some big progress,” Hinds said.

Cedar Grove encountered a delay tied to the Texas Department of Transportation and work at the development’s entrance, pushing back its timeline.

The project’s clubhouse recently received permanent power, moving it closer to final inspections.

“We’re looking at finals probably here in the next couple weeks,” Hinds said.

Cedar Grove is in the process of pursuing phased occupancy, which would allow residents to move into completed portions while other sections remain under construction.

The city is requiring all amenities to receive certificates of occupancy before any residential buildings can be occupied.

“All the funds still have to be there before anybody can live there,” Hinds said. “Right now, they are sitting at the final stages of their project.”

The Katy, a 150-unit development at 601 W. Second St., remains in the in-ground phase after completing a re-permitting process to allow phased occupancy.

“We have a current time of completion set for April 30,” Hinds said. “That’s based off the builder’s opinion.”

CMC Southside Apartments, the largest of the three at 308 garden-style units, is being built on 11 acres at 230 Roy Rivers Road in the Elgin Business Park.

According to officials, the development also remains in the in-ground phase, though some steel structures have been erected. Planned amenities include a dog park, clubhouse, pool and remote work spaces.

“Based on my professional opinion, I think we’re looking at 12 to 24 months, but we’ll have to wait and see,” Hinds said.

“Folks in east Will iamson County, Bastrop County and Manor will be seeing a lot of Candice in the weeks ahead. We’re really happy to bring her onboard and we know she’ll deliver when it comes to covering sports and outdoors,” said Emily Treadway, area editor.

Parent company Granite Media Partners Inc. is a 50-year-old news and marketing firm that owns 12 Texas papers including the Press, Courier and Journal.

Gilmore, who started Sept. 9, said she is excited about chronicling local athletics and sporting events.

During the last few weeks, Gilmore has covered stories for the Press as a freelance sports correspondent, so some Central Texas coaches are already familiar with her.

“Sports have been a big part of my life since talk, so I decided to turn the love into writing,” said Gilmore, an El Paso native and recent Texas State University graduate. “I’ve become a major Liverpool Football Club fan and occasionally I will root for the Patriots. In my career so far, I have covered soccer and basketball at the high school and collegiate level, but I am excited to become more involved in the football and volleyball community in the area.”

Outgoing Sports Editor Carter Bordwell will now transition into a new role as the digital editor of the Central Texas Group.

Bordwell, who got his feet wet in the world of sports, said he is ready for a new challenge covering breaking news and crime reporting.

“While sports will always hold a special place in my heart, I am excited to become a more well-rounded reporter as I continue to learn and gain valuable experience,” Bordwell said. “I enjoy covering this area and am happy to do that in a different way.”

To send sports items or tips to Gilmore, email candice.gilmore@granitemediapartners. com or

call 512-352-8535.

Elgin was first on the scoreboard in the Sept. 11 loss and held a lead heading to halftime. Despite the outcome, head coach Rich Lucero said he was able to identify some inconsistencies and areas for improvement with the developing roster.

“Specifically on third downs and in the red zone, but you only learn by trial of fire, and that’s where we’re at,” he said.

The Wildcats found their stride with 49 seconds left in the first quarter on a receiving touchdown by sophomore running back Kelly Wendo.

Freshman running back JC Keller added the lone score of the second quarter, breaking through the Duck defense along the line of scrimmage to give the Wildcats their 15-13 halftime lead.

“The biggest part of our game plan was trying to establish a run game, because I think that’s what you need to do to win football games long term,” Lucero said. “The other side of that is possessing the ball so that we could keep their strong offense on the sideline, and I thought we did enough of that.”

Elgin would not find the end zone again until late in the fourth quarter, when sophomore quarterback Tanner Modesette connected with Wendo to set the final score at 36-19.

“We believe in Tanner Modesette, and we’re going to support and continue to develop,” Lucero said. “Sometimes it just takes time.”

With district play starting soon, the Wildcats now hold a 1-2 overall record.

Elgin travels to face Del Valle Friday before hosting the Rudder Rangers Sept. 25. The team opens district play against Pflugerville at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at Pflugerville High School.

Elgin has accumulated 45 sets won so far in the 2026-27 season. This success is a stark change from last year, when the team finished sixth in district with 23 sets and a 7-27 overall record.

Second-year head coach Hope Pawlik said the early going required patience as players adjusted to her approach.

“Coming in as a new coach, it takes a while for girls to trust you and to buy in,” Pawlik said. “My style of coaching is significantly different than a lot of other coaches, so for them, understanding the new systems that we were going to place took a little bit.”

Once last season concluded, Pawlik did not waste any time changing the way the team looked and operated. Players took on tougher practices, increased conditioning and one-onone training to address details often overlooked like hip and setting mobility, according to Pawlik.

The varsity and freshman teams now participate in Friday conditioning sessions, elevated volleyball IQ instruction and a weekly leadership class focused on discipline on and off the court.

“We continue to say that we need to be comfortable being uncomfortable,” Pawlik said. “We don’t rely on external factors off the court, only the ones we can control and are in front of us on the court … It was tough and I plan to keep increasing the expectations.”

The coach added she also used the offseason to overhaul the program’s culture and vision, implementing themed days, weekly individual player spotlights and stronger relationships with nearby middle school and club programs.

“I wanted the environment to be a place where they feel like players can come and we will continue to grow them,” Pawlik said. “I’m a big believer in vertical alignment. It’s important to us the middle schools and club teams know our name and systems there too, so our relationship starts even sooner.”

The Lady Cats fell to fourth-ranked Hendrickson in straight sets (2522, 25-13, 25-16) in their second district match Sept. 11. They now sit seventh in district standings.

Elgin traveled to face Pflugerville Connally after press time Sept. 15.

— Overheard at the car parts store

“I love this season of year,” I announced to the coffee club last week.

“Whoa, hold on,” one of them muttered, gripping his mug. “It’s not Christmas yet. There’s plenty of shopping days left.”

“No,” I said with a laugh. “I’m talking about the big car show on Saturday morning, same weekend as the Poultry Festival. Besides, I don’t start Christmas shopping until the week before.”

Someone chimed in with, “You think kids still care about cars like we did? Some don’t seem to even care about a driver’s license.”

“Not entirely true,” I protested. “The machines look different today, and the technology has shifted. But wheels are still a small-town teenager’s passport to the outside world.”

I took another sip of coffee, recalling I got my first car in 1963.

“True, we spent our weekends under the hood of a homebuilt hot rod or a muscle car then. But look around today, that passion still exists,” I added. “Same latenight garage hours and pride of ownership. The tools in the garage have changed, but the pride of driving something unique remains.”

The conversation took me back to a time when most young guys were graduating from building plastic model cars to hiding hot-rod magazines inside their history textbooks and drawing flames on paper schoolbook covers.

It was an era when every Detroit-built car had a distinct personality. You didn’t just know a Chevrolet from a Ford or a Dodge at a quarter mile away; even a novice could tell a Bel-Air from an Impala, a Mainline from a Fairlane, or a Coronet from a Meadowbrook.

Getting a license was a sacred rite of passage, and individuality was paramount. D i n a h Shore filled the airwaves singing, “See the USA in your Chevrolet.” Ford ads touted sleek styling by promising, “Ford has a better idea.”

Not to be outdone, Dodge captured the youthful spirit of the era by proclaiming, “One look and you’ve got Dodge fever.”

And the autumn unveiling of the new model lines was pure September magic.

That magic never faded for me. I still feel it every time I walk into my garage, where my trio of mid-1950s Fords reside: a ’55 Ford Crown Victoria, a ’57 Ford Thunderbird and a ‘57 Ford sedan. That last one was purchased new off the showroom floor by my grandparents in Northeast Texas. It was the very car in which I learned to drive and drove around on dates with my first and second girlfriends.

It is fair to say my life would have turned out much differently if American steel and internal combustion engines hadn’t given me an incentive to survive high school afternoon classes. We lived for the final bell, just to watch the pilgrimage of rolling stock leave the parking lot, carrying classmates to jobs or to the local burger joints.

We lived for the anticipation of cruising the Mount Pleasant city streets at night, blazing the asphalt at East Texas drag strips on the weekends and slowly driving past the Martin Theater on a Friday night to see who was at the movies.

“So,” I said, tossing a couple of bucks on the table before exiting the coffee club. “Do yourself a favor and check out the car show. It’s going to be packed with incredible machines and memories for all generations.”

After all, whether you’re 16 or 86, 500 horsepower and a gorgeous paint job will always sound a lot like Christmas.

Contact Aldridge at leonaldridge@gmail.com. Other Aldridge columns are archived at leonaldridge. com.

 • Burglary 

Sept. 8

• Assault causes bodily injury family violence; interfering with public duties

• ICE detainee; no driver’s license

• False report to peace officer

• Driving with no insurance (2nd offense)

• Criminal mischief

• Driving with no insurance; unlawful carrying of weapon

• DWI

• Assault; assault causes bodily injury; violation of promise to appear

• No driver’s license; speeding (25 MPH over); violation of promise to appear 

Sept. 9

• Assault on a family/household member impeding breath/ circulation; continuous violence against the family; terroristic threat of family/household

• Violation of bond/protective order

• Driving with invalid license

• DWI

• Property theft

• Driving with invalid license with previous conviction/suspension

• Criminal trespass

• Speeding (1-15 MPH over limit); no insurance (2nd offense)

• Driving with a handheld electronic devices; expired license plates; possession of child porn; possession of a controlled substance; ran stop sign; no insurance

• No driver’s license

• Resisting arrest/search of transport

• DWI

• Robbery; unlawful possession of metal or body armor by felon Sept. 10

• No driver’s license

• DWI

• Possession of a controlled substance

• DWI

• No driver’s license; possession of a controlled substance; violation of promise to appear; no safety belts; no insurance

• Failure to register as sex offender Sept. 11

• Driving with invalid license with previous conviction/suspension

• DWI

• Speeding; tampering with government record

• Defraud/harm

• Possession of a controlled substance

• Assault causes bodily injury

• Burglary of vehicle; forgery

• DWI

• DWI Sept. 12

• DWI

• Interfering with public duties

• Interfering with emergency request for assistance

• Marijuana possession

• Terroristic threat of family/ household

• Public intoxication

• DWI

• DWI Sept. 13

• Possession of a controlled substance; possession of drug paraphernalia; unlawful carrying of weapon

• Public intoxication

• Assault causes bodily injury

• Assault causes bodily injury

• Discharge of firearm in city limits; public intoxication

• Failure to identify-refusal to give info; public intoxication

• Possession of controlled substance

• Violation of promise to appear; ICE detainee; no driver’s license; no insurance

• DWI

• Public intoxication

A super PAC affiliated with Senate Majority Leader John Thune last week purchased about $32 million in television broadcast ads across the state’s major media markets, The Texas Tribune reported. In addition, MAGA Inc., a PAC aligned with President Donald Trump, bought $10 million in ads.

Paxton is trailing slightly in the most recent polls. To date, he vastly has been outspent by Talarico and his allies.

Paxton spoke at the Republican midterm convention held last week in Dallas, according to the Texas Standard. He unveiled his economic plan, titled “Protecting the Texas Promise.”

“Everywhere I go, I meet Texans working harder than ever that still worry that they’ll never get ahead,” Paxton said. “Those are the people that I’m fighting for.”

Meanwhile, Talarico was slated to appear on late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s network show, but the interview was pulled under concerns the Federal Communications Commission would take punitive action.

The interview was aired on YouTube instead. Several news outlets reported it received 5 million views in its first 24 hours.

Wildfire risk remains high as hunting season begins The Ross Fire in North Texas has become the largest summer wildfire recorded in state history, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service. As of Sunday, it had consumed 90,400 acres and was 83% contained.

Active wildfires were reported in five other locations in the Hill Country, northwest of Austin and San Antonio.

With hunting season now underway, officials are urging sportsmen and sportswomen to be mindful of activities that could spark a blaze. In August, the forest service responded to 313 wildfires.

“The rapid onset of a flash drought increased fire occurrence and intensity statewide in August,” said Walter Flocke, Texas A&M Forest Service fire analyst. “Under flashdrought conditions, grasses, brush and timber fuels lose moisture rapidly and become susceptible to ignition.”

A flash drought appears and worsens quickly, often over a few days or weeks.

Equipment used by hunters, such as vehicles, trailers and ATVs/UTVs, is the second-most common cause of human-caused wildfires in Texas, behind debris burning.

“Even a small spark can quickly ignite a wildfire under the right conditions,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “Texans are encouraged to stay alert and be aware of hazards that can cause a wildfire while hunting this season.”

What’s new for the 2026-27 hunting season Dove hunting kicked off this year’s hunting season on Sept. 1, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has announced regulatory changes for the coming year. Among the alterations are updated identity-verification rules to combat residency fraud.

Texas residents must provide a valid driver’s license or a personal identifi cation certificate issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Non-Texas residents may be required to provide REAL ID-compliant identification.

Other regulation changes include:

• “Doe days” expanded in 21 counties from four to 16 days.

• Earlier start for the South Zone Dove regular season.

• Elimination of Special White-winged Dove Days.

• Matagorda and Wharton counties now closed to wild turkey hunting.

• Harvest of unbearded wild turkey hens now prohibited statewide.

• Definition of muzzleloader modified to allow for use of new muzzleloading technology.

Several season dates have been changed for the 2026-027 hunting season and can be found at tpwd. gov.

Texas SNAP application backlog skyrockets Applications to receive SNAP benefits, formerly called food stamps, have ballooned almost 4,000% since January, The Dallas Morning News reported. The backlog of pending applications now exceeds 150,000, according to data from the state Health and Human Services Commission.

“This is alarming,” said Diana Forester, director of health policy at Texans Care for Children. “It is very strange to me — I can’t believe it’s as big as it is.”

The federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed in July 2025 heavily restructured Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility, including adding work requirements and requiring a state to fund part of the program based on its “error rate,” which calculates how much recipients were underpaid or overpaid in a year.

“New SNAP mandates require a thorough review of each case to ensure program integrity and accuracy,” state agency spokeswoman Jennifer Ruffcorn wrote in an email. “HHSC will continue supporting eligible Texas families as quickly as possible.”

About 300,000 Texas households have lost SNAP coverage since September 2025, with the total dropping to 1.33 million as of August, nutrition officials report. Food banks across Texas are reporting higher demand for services.

Guidelines designed to protect consumers from discriminatory pricing The Texas Department of Insurance recently reminded insurance companies that it is illegal to use factors other than insurance risk to set home and auto rates.

“In Texas, we take pride in looking out for one another. When families are feeling the weight of property- insurance costs, they deserve the confidence of knowing that their premiums are determined by genuine risk, not by pricing tactics that take advantage of customer loyalty,” said Commissioner Amanda Crawford. “Insurance is about pricing risk, not pricing the customer.”

Common factors used to determine premiums for home insurance include the home’s age, location, replacement cost and any prior claims.

Auto insurance rates are determined by claims history, locations and the customer’s age and gender. Insurance customers with questions can call the TDI help line at 800-25-3439 or visit tdi.texas.gov.

Cities push back on bid to disband power companies On the campaign trail, Gov. Greg Abbott has proposed dismantling cityowned utilities, saying it would save customers money by increasing competition.

Two cities that own electric utilities are pushing back, according to the Texas Standard.

San Antonio and Austin have the state’s largest city-owned electric utilities. Officials with both say they offer some of the cheapest electricity rates in the state because their utilities operate as nonprofit companies.

Abbott said his proposal would save 10% on the average electric bill for Austin and San Antonio residents. Among those disagreeing is Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “Fundamentally changing our utility through deregulation would have broad and significant consequences to those we serve,” he wrote in a statement.

There are 72 municipally owned utilities that provide power to 5.1 million Texans, or 15% of the state’s population, according to the Texas Public Power Association.

Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

When people gather and have long conversations, typically some life issues or concerns come up. We might hear: “My job is really tough just now,” “Toil and sorrow, all I do is work,” or perhaps, “It seems like there is so much conflict about spiritual issues.”

If you read Genesis chapter 3, you will discover information relating to the statements above. Because Adam and Eve failed to obey God’s command, sin entered their world and is now passed along to us.

Sin is a condition we’re born with, not mere deeds we do.

Sin separates us from God, just like it separated Adam and Eve in the Garden. Their actions brought about embarrassment and shame, creating that separation and leading them to hide.

And, if you read closely, the people never sought to find God. No, God looked for them.

He initiated contact. God called for them, asking where they are. Do you suppose He really didn’t know where they were?

I think God wanted Adam and Eve to know where they were — hiding, shameful and not looking for Him. They reluctantly responded.

The results of this conversation in Genesis changed life forever. Details that never existed before suddenly altered life.

Observations from this passage include people denying accountability and passing blame. New changes described how living creatures related to each other, and the punishment on snakes: their isolation from other animals, they were to be mostly feared and slither on the ground.

The 15th verse is interesting as it describes ongoing conflict and rebellion. This verse is also called “The First Evangel,” and is about the spiritual war between Satan and Jesus. Ultimately, Jesus will win, and the serpent’s head will be crushed.

Other life changes that began in Genesis chapter 3 include pain in childbirth, ground thorns making growth difficult, working “by the sweat of your brow” and death itself.

I doubt neither Adam nor Eve foresaw the great ripple effects of their disobedience. We too may be naive in our choices or feel justified by our anger or rebellion, yet there are always consequences.

But remember: God is still faithful.

He continues seeking us and helping us see clearly. He initiates contact, and I pray you will notice when He knocks on your heart’s door.

Open the door and say yes to Him.

Today, I pray that we will consider our choices. Until next week, Anita Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.

City Council unanimously accepted the certification of Jessica Jaimes as an unopposed candidate Sept. 1. The council approved an ordinance declaring her elected to the vacant seat, simultaneously canceling the Nov. 3 special election item.

Jaimes was appointed to the Ward 1 position in May following the resignation of Councilwoman Joy Casnovsky, who relocated outside of Elgin. The council later called a special election in July to fill the rest of the unexpired term.

With no other candidates filing, state law allows the city to cancel the election and declare the unopposed candidate elected.

“The authority responsible for preparing the ballot must certify that there is an unopposed candidate,” City Secretary Peyton Standifer said. “I am technically the authority for the city.”

Standifer is also required to post a copy of the Ward 1 election cancellation ordinance at each polling location that would have been used for the contest.

Although the Ward 1 race has been canceled, Elgin voters will still go to the polls Nov. 3 for a separate special election asking whether to allow the sale of all alcoholic beverages, including mixed beverages, within the city.

Former Manor ISD special educational aide Pamella Craig was arrested on charges of injury to a child, elderly individual or disabled individual.

Craig worked at the Presidential Meadows Elementary School and according to an investigation by the Manor Police there was no less than “23 overly aggressive physical encounters between Craig and five students over 11 days,” according to an arrest affidavit obtained by the Manor Journal.

Officials said families of students directly involved in the reported incidents have been contacted.

“While these were isolated incidents that coincidentally occurred around the same time, our Presidential Meadows staff have received additional training focused on student management and appropriate employee conduct,” Principal Valiza Castro wrote in a message to families.

This comes after Former Presidential Meadows teacher Michael Nathan was arrested earlier this month after allegedly assaulting a 9-year-old student, according to an affidavit obtained by the Journal.

Reports said Nathan grabbed the student by the backpack during dismissal Aug. 25 and pulled the child back into the building. The suspect allegedly slammed the student against a wall and pinned them with his forearm across the neck and chest for about 10 seconds.

Manor ISD stressed the two cases are isolated incidents.

Officials said all employees undergo required criminal background checks and fingerprinting before being hired. The district acknowledged maintaining student safety requires ongoing training, oversight and accountability after employees begin working in schools.

Presidential Meadows Elementary received an F with a score of 58 out of 100 in the Texas Education Agency’s most recent accountability ratings. The system is designed to measure how well students are learning in each grade and if they are prepared for the next level, as well as how effectively districts prepare students for success after high school.

Investigators Monday remained tight-lipped about the case, but did say it is an isolated incident and added there is “no threat” to the public.

According to a social-media post, officers rushed to 1200 Willow St. at 5:20 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, after receiving reports of two people suffering from gunshot wounds.

When police arrived, “One adult female with fatal injuries was located and one adult male with life-threatening injuries was on the scene.”

The man was taken by emergency medical services to an area hospital. His condition was not revealed by the authorities.

Identities will be released after relatives are notified, officers added.

Fisherman’s Park, located in a bend of the Colorado River, is a popular recreational destination spot.

The Elgin Police Department has paused the city’s use of Flock Safety license plate reader cameras while officials consider whether to resume or cancel the program.

Police Chief Chris Noble announced the decision in a Sept. 2 letter to Mayor Theresa McShan and Acting City Manager Beau Perry, citing growing controversy over how Flock data is used, stored and shared. He said the pause will remain in effect until he receives further direction from elected officials.

“The decision to pause the cameras was my decision, solely,” Noble said.

Elgin’s system includes 25 cameras and a mobile trailer equipped with four of its own.

According to the chief, the cameras have played a significant role in investigations ranging from violent offenses to property crimes.

“Regrettably, there will be a direct impact on our ability to investigate crimes,” Noble said.

The overall program costs roughly $102,000 annually, according to officials. Thirteen cameras are funded through the city’s general fund at a cost

“There will be a direct impact on our ability to investigate crimes.”

— Police Chief Chris Noble of about $39,000 per year, while 12 cameras and the trailer are supported by a Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority grant totaling around $63,000.

Noble said he learned Sept. 2 that Gov. Greg Abbott had ordered state agencies to stop funding Flock cameras, which he said will directly affect the grant-funded portion of Elgin’s system.

“I believe this is a good time to follow the governor’s lead and pause our use of Flock Safety until our elected officials determine if resumption or cancellation is in the best interests of the Elgin community,” Noble said in the letter.

The chief noted controversy has grown nationally following incidents in which law enforcement officers misused the cameras for personal reasons.

A Lufkin police officer has been charged with 100 felony counts of alleged misuse of Flock information, and other criminal investigations involving misuse are underway, according to Capital Highlights by Gary Borders.

Noble said he has not received concerns tied to a specific incident in Elgin, but the issue has become significant enough that community input is warranted.

“It must be the community’s decision on what to do next,” he said.

The department also plans to discuss the pause and possible cancellation with Flock Safety.

“It must be the community’s decision on what to do next.”

— Police Chief Chris Noble

My focus on stones continues: what Scripture says about stones, how they were used as memorials and how interesting it is that God Himself uses the phrase “heart of stone” to illustrate our feelings and responses.

Ezekiel 36:26 says: “I/ God will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit within you. I will remove the heart of stone from your body and give you a heart of flesh.”

He will remove the stony cold heart and give us a heart that is responsive and obedient to Him. He will give us a tender heart.

I recall a Bible study class with women of various ages — some single, others married, divorced, widowed or mothers. As we became comfortable with each other, some prayed aloud. I’ll always remember when a young woman prayed, “Lord, please change my cold stony heart.”

I noted a daring prayer, and one voiced before a group of loving, caring friends.

How might we describe a stony cold heart?

Well, perhaps it describes a person who feels hardened, one who seems icy in demeanor or relationships but also likely clouded by fear. Or maybe it is someone closed off and defensive or guarded and distrusting.

The individual is the only one who knows if this coldness and defensiveness is in regard to people or about their relationship with God. Regardless, scripture tells us that God knows about stony hearts, and He cares.

Because God wants the very best for us, He wants to exchange the stony heart for a tender heart.

Here’s an illustration to help us understand.

When problems arise and we’re tempted to be bitter — when there is injustice or pain that hurts so badly that we pull away in defense — we still have a choice. We can embrace the pain and justify our behavior, or we recognize the choice … to be bitter or be better.

When we choose and embrace bitterness, however justified we feel, the result is a hardened heart. We discount God’s ability to heal and care for us, and we want to guard and defend ourselves.

Once we embrace bitterness, it grows and the root takes hold. We continue to find reasons to justify this bitterness.

But God, and only God, is able to cut the root of bitterness without killing us. He can remove it.

Dare to submit yourself to spiritual surgery. Allow Him to remove the root and replace it with peace and a tender heart.

Choose tender, not stony! Until next week, Anita Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.

The crash occurred about 2:58 p.m. Aug. 29 at westbound U.S. 290 and Old Kimbro Road. The sedan was turning northbound onto Old Kimbro Road from the highway when the 18-wheeler struck the passenger side, according to the Manor Police Department.

“Tragically, two adult occupants of the sedan, a male and female, were pronounced deceased on scene,” MPD said in a statement.

A child in the sedan was airlifted by Serious Trauma Air Response Flight to an area hospital with significant injuries, according to reports.

The 18-wheeler driver was not injured.

The identities of those involved were not released.

The crash occurred along a stretch of U.S. 290 included in a planned $8.7 million Texas Department of Transportation improvement project extending from Gregg Manor Road to Cedar Street. The project includes turn-lane, traffic- signal and roadway improvements at several intersections, with construction expected to begin in late 2026 and be completed in late 2027.

City Council made the call following an hourlong discussion in executive session on personnel matters involving Eads. As of press time Friday, Sept. 4, officials declined to provide further comment on the decision.

Eads was not available for comment.

Development Services Director Beau Perry will continue serving as acting city manager with full administrative authority, according to the city.

The city first announced Aug. 31 that Eads was on a temporary leave of absence but did not provide a reason. Officials said at the time that all city departments, emergency services and public programs would continue operating as normal.

Eads was sworn in as Elgin city manager in December after serving as interim city manager for several months.

Before coming to Elgin, Eads served as city manager in Laredo. According to reporting from KGNS News, Eads resigned in January 2022, with then-Mayor Pete Saenz saying he left for personal reasons.

The budget is built around a proposed rate of 68 cents per $100 valuation, up from nearly 62 cents last year. The increase would cost a homeowner with a $100,000 house about $66 more in taxes this year.

Budget documents show the proposed rate would generate about $8.5 million in property taxes, up from roughly $7 million last year. Almost $300,000 of that increase would come from new property added to the tax rolls.

The average homestead tax bill is projected to rise from $1,657 to $2,001, based on a projected 4% increase in taxable value, according to officials.

The proposed rate includes about 57 cents for maintenance and operations, with the remaining cents for the city’s interest and sinking fund, which covers debt payments.

Officials said much of the additional revenue from the higher tax rate would go toward recurring personnel costs, including new employee positions and a compensation study, although council members have not finalized how the money will be divided.

“Those are recurring costs that you can then budget on, and you would expect to be able to pay for (in the future),” Acting City Manager Beau Perry said.

Perry said the city projects a positive general fund balance and that some previously set-aside money remains available, though he cautioned it cannot be treated as a recurring revenue source.

About $400,000 from a prior bond-related fund could also be used for certain parks or police expenses.

“You do have an amount of money that if you did decide to do one-time capital, buying, equipment or funding the reserve that you have that ability to,” he said.

Perry noted the council can still lower the rate before final adoption, but they are under a time restraint.

The Sept. 1 votes do not finalize either the budget or tax rate.

The council is scheduled to hold another public hearing Sept. 15 before voting on the final tax rate.

The victory came after a disappointing offensive performance in Elgin’s season opener against Manor, when the Wildcats fell 30-14. Elgin bounced back in a big way against Northeast, finding its rhythm offensively and putting together a strong performance on both sides of the ball.

Freshman JC Keller led Elgin’s rushing attack with 125 yards and two touchdowns, while senior athlete Jaxen Malek and Brandon Sorrells also found the end zone.

The victory moved Elgin to 1-1 on the season as it now turns its attention to a road matchup against rival Taylor at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.

Taylor enters the matchup with a 2-0 record after opening the season with back-to-back wins. The Ducks defeated Austin Eastside Early College 40-20 before earning a 49-30 victory over Burnet on Friday.

Junior quarterback Johnny Guzman has helped lead Taylor’s explosive for 190 yards and four touchdowns against Burnet. Sophomore wide receiver Jeremiah Caldwell caught all four of Guzman’s touchdown passes and now has seven touchdown receptions through the first two games.

Elgin’s defense will have its hands full trying to slow down a Taylor offense that has scored 89 points through two games. Seniors Andre Simmons and Trey Flores will look to lead the Wildcats’ defense as Elgin tries to limit the Ducks’ big-play ability.

On the other side of the ball, Elgin could look to take advantage of Taylor’s struggles against the run. The Ducks have allowed more than 150 rushing yards per game, which could give Keller an opportunity to build on his two-touchdown performance against Northeast.

Sophomore quarterback Tanner Modersette also showed signs of improvement in Elgin’s win and will look to continue developing as the Wildcats prepare for the rivalry matchup.

For Elgin, limiting turnovers, establishing the run and continuing to improve offensively will be key against the undefeated Ducks. The Wildcats will look to carry the momentum from Saturday’s win into Taylor and move above .500 on the season.

• DWI; reckless driving; unlawful carrying of weapon

• DWI

• Driving without taillights; intoxicated assault with vehicle; no driver’s license; reckless driving; speeding

• Possession of a controlled substance • Failure to signal; possession of a controlled substance

• Criminal trespass SEPT. 2

• Possession of a controlled substance

• Possession of a controlled substance

SEPT. 3

• Expired/invalid driver’s license; no insurance; operating an unregistered vehicle

• Intoxication assault with vehicle

• Driving with invalid license with previous conviction/suspension

• Collision involving damage to vehicle; driving with invalid license with previous conviction/suspension

• Deadly conduct discharge firearm; unlawful carrying weapon

• DWI

• Tampering with government record to defraud/harm

• ICE detainee; property theft

• Assault of a family/household member with a previous conviction

• Parent contributing to nonattendance • DWI 3rd or more conviction

• Failure to signal; open container driver; parent contributing to nonattendance; possessionofdrugparaphernalia SEPT. 4

• Possession of a dangerous drug

• Collision involving injury

• DWI 3rd or more count; ICE detainee • Burglary of habitation; terroristic threat

• Criminal trespass

• Possession of drug paraphernalia; property theft

• No driver’s license; no insurance

• Robbery

• DWI with open alcohol container; unlawful carrying of weapon SEPT 5

• Interfering with public duties; possession of a controlled substance; marijuana possession

• ICE detainee; No driver’s license

• Possession of a controlled substance • Driving with no license

• Property theft

• ICE detainee; sexual assault

• Property theft 2/more previous convictions

• Public intoxication SEPT. 6

• Driving with invalid license with previous conviction/suspension; DWI 3rd count

• DWI

• DWI with open alcohol container

The tall, gray-haired man walked toward me from the house next door. I was copying the phone number from a “For Sale” sign on a lot at Lake Murvaul in East Texas.

I had no idea I was meeting one of the best neighbors I would ever have.

This was years ago, before the “art of neighboring” was killed by 5-inch glowing rectangles and buried under a pile of unread texts. Before phone screens replaced the loving attention we once gave to family, friends and folks living next door.

“Looking to buy a place on the lake?” the old fellow quizzed me. “Good fishin’ here.”

His thinning hair and weathered face revealed his age, but his smile, twinkling eyes and curiosity hinted at a much younger heart.

“I love this lake, wouldn’t live anywhere else. Retired and moved here from Dallas 17 years ago,” he said.

I bought the property and that summer while turning it into a new home, “Mr. Bill” made the time and the work tolerable.

“How ’bout a glass of tea?” he sometimes called out.

“Come on, sit down,” he always laughed. “I got a new joke for you.”

No one guffawed louder or longer at Mr. Bill’s jokes than he did.

Then he might offer, “Come over for supper later. Katherine’s fixin’ pork chops. I might save you one.”

After we moved in, Mr. Bill and Miz Katherine quickly “adopted” my children. He timed his afternoon coffee with the arrival of the school bus.

“Y’all better get over here,” he’d call out to my kids. “Katherine just made cookies.”

“Bug” was the name my daughter, Robin, selected for the terrier mutt she adopted, but Bill called the puppy “Bitsey.” The dog soon became Bill’s “bus alert.”

Good hearing was not a requirement for Bill’s fishing, however. You could hear his boat on many mornings, heading out at full throttle before the sun came up on the cove.

“Catch anything?” I’d quiz him later.

“Naw,” he would say with a laugh. “One tried to jump on my hook, but I talked him out of it.”

More than one Saturday morning, he was at my back door.

“Got any coffee? Katherine won’t let me have any more. Says I don’t need it. And if she calls, don’t you tell her I’m over here,” he’d tell me with a grin.

Miz Katherine eventually decided it was time to move closer to family in Fort Worth.

“Crazy woman,” Bill said, shaking his head. “I came to this lake to stay.”

He protested to all, except Miz Katherine, of course. Up went the “For Sale” sign. “Where ya’ going?” I asked one day, seeing him heaving suitcases into the car.

“To see the kids,” he replied. Looking around to make sure Miz Katherine wasn’t within earshot, he smiled and said, “If anyone stops to look at the house, tell ’em it’s eaten up with termites, the roof leaks and the plumbing’s shot.”

“Gotcha,” I said with a chuckle. “Have a good trip.”

The little place next door eventually sold, and they moved away. About that time, opportunity called me to Boerne in the Hill Country.

Even today, however, having been away from that lake for many years, when someone talks about how we used to have good neighbors, I still think about one who made my life richer — a neighbor always looking for another cup of coffee, laughing and saying, “I’ve got a new joke for you.”

The vote brings in Christopher Bailey three weeks af ter trustees named him the lone finalist in a monthslong search that drew more than 40 applicants. State law required the district to wait 21 days before formally making the hire, though officials said he has already spent time visiting campuses and meeting community members in his first few days.

“I am not a behind-the-desk superintendent,” Bailey said in a statement. “If you want to find me, look in a classroom, a hallway, a bus lane, a gym, a band hall or the stands.”

Bailey comes to Elgin with more than 20 years of experience in public education, recently serving as superintendent of Goldthwaite Consolidated Independent School District.

Bailey told the Courier in August that his early priorities would include getting to know the district and addressing challenges surrounding academic development.

“I know that there are some challenges within the district around student learning, specifically around accountability, and I want to be part of that solution for kids,” he said.

Bailey succeeds Jana Rueter, who retired in June after 34 years in public education, including four years leading Elgin ISD. Rueter will serve as superintendent emeritus through Dec. 31.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Christopher Bailey to Elgin ISD,” board President Byron Mitchell said in statement. “We believe he brings a wealth of experience and is a great fit for our community.”

Stormy Hickman served as interim superintendent during the transition.

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

With the state’s new fiscal year beginning Sept. 1, Texas hospitals are expected to lose $27 million per day in additional Medicaid funding, according to the Texas Standard. The shortfall follows the Trump administration’s withholding of approval for about $9.8 billion in three programs under the Comprehensive Hospital Increase Reimbursement Program, or CHIRP.

The program provides additional funding to cover the gap between Medicaid reimbursement rates and the actual costs hospitals incur when providing health services to Medicaid patients. Four million low-income Texans, most of them children, are enrolled in Medicaid.

“It is impossible for a hospital to take a huge loss on a Medicaid side of their portfolio and not have that impact services across the board, regardless of what type of insurance a patient has,” said Sara González of the Texas Hospital Association.

The federal government is withholding these funds as it questions how local jurisdictions in Texas calculate the taxes they collect from hospitals. Under CHIRP, the federal government matches those funds so the hospitals can cover their actual Medicaid costs.

Gov. Greg Abbott has called the funding holdup an economic “gun to the head.”

SEVERAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS FACE STATE TAKEOVER IN 2027 More than a dozen Texas school districts could be taken over by the state in 2027 if they do not improve student performance before next year’s A-F accountability ratings, according to The Texas Tribune.

At least 14 districts had at least one school campus with a failing grade, according to this year’s preliminary ratings. Under state law, the Texas education commissioner must take over any district that receives five consecutive failing ratings — or close that failing school.

After a takeover, the district’s elected board of trustees is replaced with an appointed board of managers for at least two years.

Campuses under threat of closure next year are in the following districts: Clarksville, Cleveland, Coldspring-Oakhurst, Elgin, Judson, Kingsville, Manor, Nacogdoches, Poteet, Runge, San Angelo, San Antonio, Spring and Waco.

Districts have until Sept. 11 to appeal a school’s grade rating.

NEW LAWS TOOK EFFECT IN TEXAS ON SEPT. 1

A bevy of new laws took effect Sept. 1, according to the Texas Standard, including changes to how consumers can repair electronic devices, greater regulation of residential solar sales, and the allowance of certain forms of gold and silver as legal tender.

State House Bill 2963 requires electronics manufacturers to provide owners and independent repair businesses with the parts, tools and documentation they need on “fair and reasonable terms.” That requirement applies to consumer electronics with a wholesale price of at least $50, but only to items offered for sale in the state after Sept. 1.

The measure contains numerous exemptions, including many motor vehicles, farm equipment, large home appliances and video-game consoles.

Another legal change requires residential solar system salespeople to register with the state and to work for a registered solar retailer. Consumer advocates said complaints about solar panels submitted to the attorney general increased by 818% between 2018 and 2023.

Another law recognizes qualifying privately produced silver and gold specie as legal tender in the state. The state comptroller is responsible for approving a system allowing electronic payments backed by bullion.

LAWMAKERS LOOKING TO FURTHER CUT SCHOOL PROPERTY TAXES

A Senate analysis indicates that nearly 40% of Texas homeowners pay no school property taxes. Some legislators hope to increase that share in the upcoming regular session, which begins in January. The Houston Chronicle reported that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick directed a Senate committee to assess the impact of increased homestead exemptions in past years, with the possibility of raising them further next session.

Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, chairs that committee and has been at the forefront of efforts to expand homestead exemptions. Currently, the first $140,000 of a residence’s taxable value is exempt. For those over 65 or with disabilities, the exemption rises to $200,000.

Patrick hopes to raise the homestead exemption to $180,000 and to lower the age at which homeowners qualify for a senior exemption from 65 to 55. For his part, Gov. Greg Abbott is pushing a constitutional amendment that would eliminate school property taxes for homeowners.

“The state will fully fund public education without you having to pay for it in your homestead,” Abbott said. “The amount you get on your bill from the local school district that you pay in property taxes should be zero dollars for the rest of your ownership of that house.”

GOP SET TO GATHER IN DALLAS FOR MIDTERM CONVENTION President Donald Trump and other GOP leaders hope this week’s midterm convention in Dallas will help the party win roughly 35 races that could determine control of Congress, according to The Dallas Morning News. The Senate race between Republican Ken Paxton and his Democratic opponent James Talarico is, by all indications, among the biggest.

Trump appeared on Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s podcast to promote the convention being held at American Airlines Center, home of the Dallas Mavericks. It is expected to draw 20,000 attendees over two days.

The first-of-its-kind midterm convention is intended to generate enthusiasm for the GOP candidates in what is predicted to be a tough election year for the party.

TALARICO ACCEPTS CNN DEBATE INVITATION; PAXTON MUM State Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin, last week accepted CNN’s debate invitation, marking the fourth time the U.S. Senate nominee has agreed to debate Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee.

Both are seeking the seat held by John Cornyn, R-San Antonio. Paxton has indicated he would debate his opponent but hasn’t committed to a specific event, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

“I’ve accepted the debate because I answer to the people of Texas — (Paxton) won’t because he answers to his billionaire holders,” Talarico said.

Paxton has not debated an opponent since before he was elected to statewide office in 2014. His senior adviser said in mid-August Paxton would debate Talarico, and expected an announcement to be “forthcoming shortly.”

Borders is a veteran awardwinning Texas journalist. He published community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders @texaspress.com.

The funding, administered by the Texas Veterans Commission, will provide services to an estimated 4,790 area veterans through a range of programs including emergency financial assistance, transportation, legal services, mental health support, home modification and rental and mortgage assistance. “Our veterans represent the strength and resilience of our great land, and every veteran deserves the opportunity to build a fulfilling life after service,” Abbott said in a statement.

Earlier this spring, TVC commissioners approved $40.8 million in grants to 190 veteran organizations across the state, serving more than 125,600 veterans and their dependents.

Since 2009, the Funds for Veterans’ Assistance program has awarded nearly 1,800 grants totaling more than $400 million.

Funding comes primarily from Texas Lottery games designated for veteran support, with additional contributions available through vehicle registration and hunting and fishing license purchases.

“ We’re incredibly thankful for the organizations across Central Texas that show up every day to support Texas veterans and their families,” said TVC Deputy Executive Director and U.S. Army veteran Shawn Deabay. “These grants help strengthen that work. It’s great seeing the community give back to those who served.”

Grant recipients supporting the Bastrop County area include: · A Sanctuary for Military Families: $211,000 for non-clinical mental health · Austin Dog Alliance: $350,000 for service dog program · Austin Habitat for Humanity: $100,000 for Housing for Texas Heroes · Caritas of Austin: $45,000 for non-clinical mental health; $150,000 for financial assistance; $38,000 for clinical counseling; $116,000 for financial assistance · Catholic Charities of Central Texas: $275,000 for financial assistance · Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation: $400,000 for financial assistance · Goodwill Industries of Central Texas: $200,000 for financial assistance · Heroes Night Out: $165,000 for financial assistance · National Guard Association of Texas: $250,000 for financial assistance · Samaritan Center for Counseling and Pastoral Care: $400,000 for clinical counseling · Semper Fi & America’s Fund: $300,000 for financial assistance · Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation: $300,000 for financial assistance · USA Cares: $250,000 for financial assistance Veterans seeking assistance can find local organizations at tvc.texas. gov/directory or visit tvc. texas.gov for a complete list of grant recipients.

Elgin opened its match against Atkins with a 25-21 victory in the first set, but the Tigers responded with a 25-18 win in the second. Atkins then took the third set 25-21, putting the Lady Cats on the brink of defeat. Elgin battled back in the fourth set, earning a 25-17 victory to force a deciding fifth set. Atkins ultimately pulled out the close match with a 15-11 win in the final set.

The Lady Cats responded with a strong performance against McDade, sweeping the Bulldogs 3-0. Elgin controlled the match from the opening serve, winning 25-9, 25-16 and 25-22.

With the two matches, Elgin improved to 18-11 on the season and continued to show progress as it prepares for district competition.

The Lady Cats opened district play Tuesday against Georgetown and will return home to host Hendrickson at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11.