May 2023

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The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office released the following arrest report from May 9-May 17. Michael Jose Alvizo, 33, Edgewood, arrested on site for driving while intoxicated.
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Austin Bank announces new branding

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“Same bank. Same name. Same family. New look,” shares East Texas based Austin Bank regarding its new logo, tag line and brand colors. The bank is the same bank it has always been, with the same commitment to its customers, employees and communities. They have simply modernized their look. The Austin family and all leadership remains the same. Austin Bank is proud of its commitment to the communities they have served for over 120 years.
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Eaglettes come up short in Regional Quarterfinals

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The Canton Eaglette softball team saw another dream season draw to a close last week, falling to a talented Farmersville program in the Regional Quarterfinals. Despite the disappointing finish the Eaglettes would etch their name into the school’s record, winning the program’s first-ever district title, setting a high-water mark for wins in a season with 30 and reaching the Regional Quarterfinals for the second year in a row.
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Van chamber announces award winners during festival

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Three major award winners were recognized by the Van Area Chamber of Commerce May 13 during the chamber’s Cinco de Mayo Festival. Long-time Van High School Counselor Bill Giles was named as the chamber’s ‘Citizen of the Year’ while Joan Driver was selected as the chamber’s ‘Volunteer of the Year.’ C&H Fire Pits, owned by Cole and Hannah Wagley, was named as the chamber’s ‘Business of the Year.’ The Van Area Chamber of Commerce’s Cinco de Mayo Festival moved from its original location to the gymnasium at Connections, formerly the Van United Methodist Church, due to forecasts of inclement weather May 13.

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Bright Star Baptist Church of Wills Point hosted a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater called “Burritos and Banditos” on Saturday, May 20. The play began at 6 p.m.

All Together Now:

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Kindness, Friendship, and Unity BRANDI COLLARD-SIMPSON Director, Grand Saline Public Library The Grand Saline Public Library is kicking off its annual Summer Reading Program by donating books to Grand Saline ISD and Fruitvale ISD kindergarteners to encourage a love of reading and learning. The theme of this year’s program is All Together Now: Kindness, Friendship, and Unity.