Coffee in hand, Lufkin? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: 58 Cowboy Church Mutton Busting and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you call a belt that is made of watches? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Lufkin officer gets 5-year prison sentence for using Flock data to monitor ex-girlfriend, her family (cbs19.tv) — A longtime Lufkin police officer has been sentenced to five years in state prison after admitting he misused Flock license plate cameras and law-enforcement databases to track his ex-girlfriend and her family. Investigators say he ran more than 25,000 improper searches, prompting a Texas Rangers probe and a full audit of Flock use by Lufkin police and Angelina County deputies, who were otherwise cleared of wrongdoing.
2. Abbott says data center permits frozen until power, water concerns addressed (ksla.com) — Plans for two AI data centers in Angelina County, including within Lufkin's influence, are on hold after Governor Greg Abbott froze new permits until power and water impacts are addressed. Lufkin city leaders and county commissioners are pushing for more local control over where such facilities can build, while state officials craft new rules on electricity, utility costs, and water use.
3. Rolling Hills Zoo Earns Accreditation (ksal.com) — Lufkin's Ellen Trout Zoo has earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, placing it among just 255 accredited facilities worldwide. The recognition follows a rigorous review of animal care, education, conservation, and operations, giving local families extra confidence in the quality and standards of their hometown zoo.
4. Beaumont United quarterback named Athlete of the Week (12newsnow.com) — Lufkin High School football fans saw the Panthers fall 62-27 to Beaumont United last Friday, as Timberwolves quarterback CJ Bronson accounted for seven touchdowns in a standout performance. Coaches praised Lufkin's strong football tradition even in defeat, while Beaumont now shifts focus to its homecoming game against Galveston Ball as district play continues.
5. SFA Greek Life raises money through philanthropy (thepinelog.com) — A Stephen F. Austin State University freshman from Lufkin is helping lead Greek life philanthropy that channels thousands of dollars to causes like ALS research, breast cancer awareness, and support for U.S. service members. Fraternities and sororities describe how frequent fundraisers, walks, and campus events both strengthen student community and extend support across East Texas and beyond.
Show off your photography skills and the sights around town! Click here to submit your Photo of the Day to Patch AM!
Add your event to our calendar and newsletter!
Want to see your event featured? Click here!
Other local events
Want to say something great about someone in town? Click here to submit your Shout Out to Patch AM! It's free!
Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.
Want to see your business here? Click here to connect with local customers.
What your neighbors are talking about on social media
Ok Lufkin! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A waist of time. (Thank you Martin L. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
We use a combination of real people and machines to tell you what's happening around town. Learn more about Patch AM.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Lufkin Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.