News

davidb@vanzandtnews.com An agreement between Van Zandt County and the Animal Protection League of Longview was unanimously approved by the VZC Commissioners Court during its regular meeting March 13. The contract was approved following a presentation by Animal Protection League Director Sheila Phillips and a recommendation by VZC Pct.

Carter BloodCare has scheduled a blood drive from 2-6 p.m. Monday, April 1, at the Walmart Supercenter located at 603 East State Highway 243 in Canton.

Canton ISD Superintendent Brian Nichols released a statement March 19 about the school district’s decision to cancel classes Monday, April 8, due to the total solar eclipse. “Canton ISD has made the decision to cancel classes Monday, April 8 in anticipation of the total solar eclipse,” emphasized Nichols.

Katie Parker still gets nervous just crossing the street. Eight years ago, a careless driver plowed into her and her dog, Riley, while they were out for a jog. Parker was hit with such force that she was thrown more than 60 feet. Riley, a Great Dane, was killed on what was supposed to be a pleasant morning jog.

Texas recorded a new all-time low number of hunting-related accidents across the state, according to the 2023 Texas Hunting Accident Report. A new record low of 10 non-fatal hunting-related accidents and one fatality were reported in 2023.

On Tuesday, March 12, the Van Police Department arrested a man suspected of striking a multi-station fuel pump causing a fire, according to the Tyler KETKTV website. A spokesperson with the Van Police Department confirmed to the News that the story on the KETK-TV website was accurate.

The Edom arts community and many other well-wishers turned out on March 9 to dedicate a historical marker for Potters Brown, a pottery shop and studio opened in Edom in 1971 by revered artist Doug Brown (1943-2020). Beth Brown, Doug’s widow and fellow potter, led the ceremony to unveil the marker, located in front of the Potters Brown shop.

The Edgewood Police Department recently released information regarding an investigation into puppies that were dumped at the city park. “On Thursday, March 7, 2024, the Edgewood Police Department was dispatched to the city park in reference to some puppies that had been dumped,” said Edgewood Police Chief John Morrison in the press release.

In a media release March 13, Wills Point Police Chief Aaron W. Long announced the termination of an off-duty police officer in the department.

With a number of law enforcement and elected officials in and around Van Zandt County standing behind them, VZC Sheriff Joe Carter and VZC Sheriff ’s Department Lt. Bob Keltner held a news conference regarding an update on sex offender investigations in VZC.