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BELLVILLE — An Austin County jury has sentenced a convicted sex offender to life in prison after he was accused of blinding a sheriff’s deputy with a shotgun blast, officials said. The case took place in La Grange in Fayette County but was moved to Austin County on a change of venue due to widespread local media coverage, according to the Texas Attorney General’s Office, which prosecuted the case.

Designated proceeds from a recent Sealy KC Drive Thru Fish Fry were presented to the Austin County Peace Officers Association. The Sealy Knights of Columbus Co. 3313 appreciate all of the efforts made by all of the various policing agencies serving in our Austin County. Receiving the presentation on the left of the check is Brandon Drake, ACPOA President and an Austin Co. Sheriff Department member, with Sealy KC Grand Knight Robert Kent looking on from second row immediately behind Brandon’s left side. Making the presentation for the Sealy KC’s to the right of the check is Joe Lemos, a Council Trustee. The ACPOA will use the proceeds to fund some of their charitable programs.

The Austin County Jail Museum is undergoing much-needed upgrades to ensure the oldest occupied public building in the area remains one of the most popular attractions around, officials said. The museum is at 36 Bell St.

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Jobeth Hines-Lorraine, beloved wife, mother, and friend passed away on July 3, 2022, in Katy, Texas. She was preceded in death and reunited with her loving son, Samuel Erin Hines, and her parents Lilburn Neal and Marjorie Walden. Jobeth is survived by her husband, Robert D. Lorraine; Her stepdaughters Kalie Lorraine and Kasey Lorraine; Her stepsons Robert W. Lorraine and Cody Lorraine; and her grandson Michael W. Robberson.

Looking for something to do before the end of summer? Find out what events are happening in August around Austin County. Prices and times may vary.

Seeing fewer swimmers even as temperatures soar, Sealy’s Irene LeBlanc Pool is looking to boost attendance by offering discounted admission, the City Council recently heard. City employee Michelle Winney appeared before the council to discuss a price reduction at the facility, which the council approved.