Incumbent Henry P. Jackson announced his bid for Smith County Precinct 1 constable.

Before becoming constable in 1999, Jackson, a Democrat, worked eight years as a reserve officer for the city of Tyler and two years as deputy constable for Precinct 3.

Jackson, 55, has owned a private security business, H&J Controls, for more than 22 years.

He has a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and holds a peace officer certification.

Precinct 1 encompasses primarily the Tyler city limits.

While constable, Jackson started the Community Policing Program, which has increased the number of patrols in the precinct's neighborhoods.   more »

Assistant Police Chief Paul Cross said Monday he was planning to retire after 24 years with the El Paso Police Department.

"I've been an assistant chief for four years," said Cross, 48. "I was thinking about retiring in December. I teach part time at UTEP and will start teaching part time at the University of Phoenix. That's enough to keep me busy."

Cross' retirement will be the second among the top command at the Police Department this month. Police Chief Richard Wiles announced that he will leave the position at the end of the month, and he has hinted he will join the crowded field for sheriff.   more »

For 20 young black males, Project Y.E.S. has been instrumental in their saying "yes" to their dreams.

"I thought it was about getting big, so I was excited about coming," said Darius Walker, 15. "We've had a lot of speakers who know where we're coming from and they tell us how to be successful. It put a thought into my mind that I can be successful too, so when I think about it, Project Y.E.S. is about getting big in a way."

Project Youths Exemplifying Success began in July through collaboration between Shiloh Comprehensive Community Center and   more »