Lufkin proclaims Kinley Carter Owens Day; honors five promoted police officers

Mayor Mark Hicks presented a proclamation declaring April 7, 2026, as Kinley Carter Owens Day in the City of Lufkin, asking citizens to honor her memory, wear pink, and support families affected by childhood cancer. The proclamation described Kinley as a beloved child who inspired community awareness of DIPG, a rare pediatric brain cancer, and invited family members forward for the presentation.

“Now, therefore, I, Mark Hicks, mayor of the city of Lufkin, on behalf of the entire city council, do hereby proclaim April 7th, 2026, as Kinley Carter Owens Day in the city of Lufkin and encourage all citizens to honor her memory by spreading kindness, supporting families affected by childhood cancer, wearing pink in her honor, and continuing to learn more about DIPG to raise awareness and fight against it,” the proclamation read.

Following the proclamation, Chief Brazell introduced and recognized five promotions within the Lufkin Police Department: Officers Chris McClurg and George Bautista were promoted to corporal; Brad Davis and Jim Cowan were promoted to sergeant; and Sergeant Dale Dodd was promoted to lieutenant. Chief Brazell described the department’s promotional process—including a physical readiness test, a comprehensive written exam, and a graded skills assessment center evaluated by external assessors—and presented new badges during a pinning ceremony with family members present.

Mayor Hicks invited the families and members of the public to remain for the meeting or depart as they wished. The promotions and the proclamation were presented during the meeting’s ceremonial portion and no formal votes were required.