• In a headline in Tuesday’s edition above the story about local Girls State participants we included an incorrect description of the sponsoring entity. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 102 is the group that coordinates local participants.

The ARTS Arena continues to grow as youth across the area join in the creation of expressive works. Personal stories, exploratory adventures and learning are shared through the Arena. Arts for Rural Texas, a 501(c)(3) non-profit offers programs for youth and adults. During this time when the news media and all those around us speak of stress and isolation, ARTS offers opportunities to interact and create.

The Smithville Times

Dustin Canik of Fayetteville was selected to receive the 2020 All American Scholar Award sponsored by Catholic Life Insurance, one of the nation’s top 10 largest fraternal life insurers. Each year, Catholic Life awards 35 scholarships worth $1,000 each to graduating high school seniors who have not only demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and academic achievements but have also gone above and beyond in their civic duties and made a difference in their communities.

Plans are being made for the resumption of services at Holy Cross Lutheran Church on Sunday, May 24 in accordance with state guidelines. A letter outlining the current plans will be mailed to members this week and will also be available on the church Facebook page and website. Please note these plans are tentative as the church awaits the outcome of the reopening of businesses, restaurants, etc. in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Pastor Beck will continue to upload abbreviated services devotions, and other materials to the Holy Cross Facebook and YouTube pages. You can find them as follows, Facebook: Holy Cross Lutheran Church; YouTube: Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Warda, TX. Website: www.holycrosswarda. com. Check these services often as circumstances may change. The church phone number is (979) 242-3333.

Fayette County Sheriff Keith Korenek reports that on Friday, March 8, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Canine Unit, Sgt. Randy Thumann and K9 partner Kolt, stopped a Chevy 1500 pickup on Interstate 10 at the 659 mile-marker at approximately 1:08 p.m. for a traffic violation. After speaking to the driver, Sgt. Thumann became suspicious that the vehicle may be involved in transporting illegal narcotics. Sgt. Thumann was given consent to search the vehicle. Sgt. Thumann deployed his canine partner Kolt to conduct an exterior sweep of the vehicle. Sgt. Thumann observed Kolt alerted to the vehicle for the presence of illegal narcotics. Sgt. Thumann and Investigator Smith searched the vehicle and discovered approximately eight pounds of heroin concealed in an elaborate aftermarket compartment built into the vehicle exhaust tunnel. The narcotics have an estimated street value of $1,095,000. The driver, Bobby Cavazos, 40 from Weslaco, was arrested for felony heroin possession and taken to the Dan R. Beck Justice Center.

Shane Hollas is the St. Rose of Lima Catholic School (SRLCS) 2020 Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton Award recipient. SRLCS thanks Shane for numerous years of service and support to Catholic education. He and his wife Tonia sent both of their children, Jase (2014) and Brynlee (2016) to St. Rose School. His volunteerism included coaching several athletic teams over the years since 1993. Sports included football, basketball (boys and girls) and he assisted with softball and track. Shane continues to be a faithful St. Rose School supporter. Pictured from left are Rosanne Gallia, principal, Shane Hollas and Rev. Timothy Kosler, pastor.

Coronavirus claimed another victim from Fayette County on Wednesday, May 13.

Someone left their cocaine at the counter of Sutherland’s Lumber in La Grange. It’s now at the La Grange Police Station, in case anyone is looking for it.