Community Corner

🌱 How a Lufkin officer’s Flock camera abuse led to prison time

Spotted on the Lufkin calendar: Fright at the Museum - 21+

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Coffee in hand, Lufkin? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • How a Lufkin officer's Flock camera abuse led to prison time
  • Will Lufkin gain new power over massive AI data centers?
  • What this new accreditation means for Lufkin's Ellen Trout Zoo visitors

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!)

Weather forecast:

  • Thursday: A couple of thunderstorms, with a high of 91 and low of 73 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Friday: A shower and t-storm; humid, temps: high: 86, low: 71.
  • Saturday: Showers and a heavier t-storm, with a high of 83 and low of 69 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

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.
   

📸 Around Lufkin

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Does anyone know a reliable person or service that can open a car hood if the latch is broken?
    Any recommendations would be appreciated. TIA! (Nextdoor Downtown)
  • Same dog from before came back she's been out here since about 1:30-2.
    She's on my dogs tie out and I need to take him out so please come get her if she's yours (Nextdoor Hudson)
  • Sam's Club posted a job opening for Merchandise and Stocking Associate in Lufkin. Apply here.
  • Pilot Travel Centers, LLC posted a job opening for Moe's Team Member in Lufkin. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Lufkin here.

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!

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