Gladewater mirror weekly div community service entry by Gladewater Mirror

An eyesore came down last week in Gladewater. This house on Howard Street, behind the former Gladewater Middle School was being torn down and is the first of many eyesores to be torn down in the coming year as Gladewater mounts a major campaign to clean up the city. Scan the QR Code with your smartphone to see a timelapse video of the tear down.

Can’t we fix this ...

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and all pleaded guilty unless otherwise indicated, Byrd’s office said: James Gary Nixon, 42, of Gladewater, drew eight years in prison Aug. 30 for tampering with physical evidence. Robert Earl Fitzgerald, 51, of Big Sandy, drew eight years in prison Aug. 30 for possession of a controlled substance--four grams or more but less than 200 grams of methamphetamine. Big Sandy police investigated the Nov. 19, 2015 offense. Byrd represented the state at sentencing; Longview attorney John Moore represented Fitzgerald. Elaina Kaye Grunden, 23, of Gilmer, on Aug. 31 drew a 10-year prison term upon pleading guilty to tampering with physical evidence, and received nine concurrent seven-year prison terms when her probation was revoked Senior Bear Isaiah Davis scored the winning touchdown of the game against on nine counts of “forgery-the Kilgore Bulldogs and the Gladewater defense held tough for a 29-27 victory. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell Continued on Page 11

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"Can't we fix this?" Gladewater Mirror Community Service Weekly Newspaper One of the things we are most proud of with the Gladewater Mirror is its community involvement. For the past two years we have used barrels of ink to promote the cleanup and beautification of the city of Gladewater. Those barrels of ink have turned out to be highly effective. We have pointed out eyesores, dangerous abandoned buildings near schools, and public buildings in the historic downtown that needed attention. As a result of our push for improvement a Beautification Board was created in the late spring of 2015 and Suzanne was appointed to the board and named Chairman. Through the newspaper's efforts a $110,000 TXDOT Green Ribbon grant was awarded for implementation in 2016 but is actually being effected in Spring 2017. A grant was secured and completed for a native planting enhancement of an outdoor Gladewater Museum historic firetruck exhibit and downtown planters have been planted with drought resistant native plants through the efforts of the Beautification Board, Vital Earth (a local global mulch and chemical company) and the Gladewater Mirror. As you can see from the included materials there is much more involved. Volunteers have been motivated and connected so that very real changes are occurring in our Main Street City including the Adopt-a-Spot campaign which was created at the Mirror and effected through the Beautification Board with free advertising provided. The cherry on top has been the addition of small housing contractors who are making use of newly cleared lots to offer low cost housing with financing available. This followed a push by the Mirror to support the city's strengthened ordinances for safe rental housing which created quite an uproar but was eventually passed and is beginning to have effect. We have attacked and seemingly licked the graffitti artists in town. After publicizing their three attempts and focusing on neighborhood watchfulness, as well as added lighting from AEP SWEPCO we have had no further incidents. We are also proud of our "Can't We Fix This" series that miraculously sees the problems corrected usually within days. We also promote heavily the monthly recycling and the fall and spring city cleanup days. We feature pictures of volunteers each month and a series of pictures for the two annual heavy cleanup days. (Jim is also a regular volunteer in the recycling efforts.) As a result of the coverage there is a bit of a status symbol to this volunteerism. It hasn't fallen off a bit since we have been doing this.

We have also been told that the city will be receiving a second TXDOT Green Ribbon Grant of $110,000 for 2018 because of our efforts at pursuing additional grants. We have also contacted the Atlanta TXDOT district to see if we can qualify on our Upshur County side of town for Green Ribbon Grants. We have placed a column from Oct. 5 first in the materials after the letters which helps explain a part of what has been accomplished. The rest of the material is in date order starting in January of 2016. Again we are proud of what we are accomplishing by partnering with the city, community-wide projects and a host of volunteers. Suzanne & Jim Bardwell Gladewater Mirror work: 903-845-2235 cell: 903-235-8544

Page 2, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016

Action hero or thief … Here we are with a brand spanking new year full of promise and I am, pardon my country plain speaking, ‘spitting mad’. I hate that too, since I had all those wonderful warm, fuzzy “It’s a Wonderful Life” holiday feelings. How I went from Holly Jolly Suzie to the Grumbling Grinch has to do with a heck of a lot of work and an empty hole. Yep, an empty hole has me so angry my hair could stand on end just like Old Hickory, Andy Jackson’s did when he got mad. But when he got mad he generally shot somebody and I promise you that my volleys will only be verbal…and in print. Sometimes I love it that we ‘buy our ink by the barrel’ and this is one of those times. Months back I wrote my very first grant for the Gladewater Beautification Board and lo and behold, miracle of miracles we got it. A grant for $600 to beautify the area by the Gladewater Museum’s firetruck exhibit on the corner by Broadway Elementary with $500 more to follow. Museum Director Elaine Roddy studied the native plant list, sought advice from Vital Earth’s Terrie Hammer and enlisted the help of volunteers to till the soil, pull the grass and prepare for plantings. She even went so far as to buy some plants out of her own pocket and paid some workers to help prep. Then the biblical torrents of rain hit that put a pond where our project needed to go. So we got an extension, waited for sunshine and picked out the last of the plants. Jim Bardwell and I got our son’s old high school pickup truck to rolling. It is lovingly, and accurately referred to as our Lowe’s truck. And, we headed to Lowe’s to buy up all the plants that could fit in ‘Old Blue’ that met the requirements of our grant. Elaine met us at the firetruck and the three of us planted trees,

Jan. 9th - 10th

February 13th - 14th March 12th - 13th April 9th - 10th May 14th - 15th June 11th - 12th July 9th - 10th

Suzanne Bardwell shrubs, native grasses, plants and more. Followed by Farrell Alexander cleaning up the lot and giving it an amazing ‘haircut’. You know why everyone went to all this effort? To make Gladewater a more beautiful place. To create a corner for citizens, especially kiddos to enjoy for years to come. Our plans also include benches, stepping stones or a sidewalk and a fence to keep the cars from parking on the exhibit. Sad, but necessary. What we didn’t count on needing was another shrub because someone helped themselves to our Camellia bush. How in the heck does someone have the gall to go and pull a plant out of the ground and in the middle of winter no less? I am going to demonstrate a petty streak here and say that I hope that pretty little Camellia curls up its little green leaves and dies. Because NO ONE should ever be rewarded for stealing. I may have to get James Moore and some of his buddies to ride herd on our plants and any trespassers that are tempted to help themselves. Cowboys generally know how to take care of problems like this. My daddy always taught me that “a ‘man’ is only as good as his word”. In other words we are the sum total of what we do based on what we say. I am pretty sure that “thou shalt not steal” is still one of the Top Ten if you know what I mean. So, everybody, this is a call to action. We have got to watch out for the city’s property, our neighbors’ property and our own. We have to live our lives in such a way that others want to join us in the fight to make our little corner of God’s creation a better, safer, more beautiful place. We have to commit to not give up or give in when we have given our time, our talent and our energy to projects that get a hit whether that is a ‘missing shrub’, or a critical broadside. Also, let’s commit to making Gladewater a warmer, more beautiful town in 2016. Now, that is well worth the effort. After all, this is our home. And if whoever took that shrub wants to return it - that would be wonderful. I am a strong believer in redemption. Remember, we are the sum total of our actions. That means we can all be ‘action heroes’! No kidding.

August 13th - 14th Sept - NONE Gregg Co. Fair October 8th - 9th November 12th - 13th December 10th - 11th

THE ECONOMIST By Dr. M. Ray Perryman

Year in Review: The Texas Economy

The oil surge ended in 2015, and the Texas economy felt the effects. Through November, 133,100 jobs were added to reach a total of 11.9 million nonfarm employees in the state. While the economy is creating jobs, this is well below the pace of hiring from last year, when by this time the economy had already added 361,200 jobs. Most of the difference is due to the drastic changes that have occurred in the oil industry following the drop the oil prices. Where the mining and logging sector added 27,500 jobs over the entire year in 2014, the sector has already lost 33,500 jobs in Texas thus far in 2015. Although the price of oil is far below sustainable levels, the oversupply in the market continues to pressure the price down. As mentioned in previous columns, the oversupply is largely due to increased US shale production as well as increased production from OPEC nations as part of a strategy to price out other oil producers. As OPEC and major US companies have yet to cut their production, it is likely that the price of oil could continue to fall, though many analysts (including this one) agree that the price is projected to rebound sometime in 2016. It is estimated that American oil and gas companies have cut over 86,000 jobs since June 2014, and with the price of oil falling again to less than $40 per barrel and low capital budgets being reported, we may well see further job losses in the industry. However, although rig counts are reaching pre-oil boom levels, the industry has still not seen the level of job loss from the oil bust in the 1980s when Texas alone lost 240,000 jobs. Unlike in the previous oil bust, the Texas economy has so far remained fairly resilient, as job growth in other sectors has offset the losses in the oil industry. The great majority of the job growth in Texas so far this year has come from the service-providing industries, which comprise 85% of total nonfarm employment in the state. Specifically, the education and health services sector has added 57,600 jobs this year, 48,600 of which were in the health care and social assistance subsector alone. In addition, the leisure and hospitality sector has added another 54,600 jobs, 92% of which were in the accommodation and food services subsector. Large gains have also been seen in the trade, transportation, and utilities sector with 33,200 additional jobs (mainly driven by the addition of 25,200 jobs in retail trade) and the professional and business services sector with 28,200 additional jobs. Public sector jobs have also increased by 20,800 thus far this year. Along with the logging and mining sector, the manufacturing sector has also taken a hit this year with a loss of 35,800 jobs as of November. Employment in the information and construction sectors has remained relatively unchanged, though the number of building permits for single-family homes and multi-family buildings issued over the past year has increased from previous annual totals. In the 84th Texas Legislative session this past year, lawmakers approved $4 billion in tax cuts in the face of a multi-billiondollar budget surplus. Specifically, the Legislature passed a 25% cut to the business franchise or margins tax and an increase to $25,000 in the homestead exemption on school property taxes, which is estimated to save the average Texas family over $120 per year. The state budget leaves billions of dollars of estimated revenue unspent, in part due to political philosophy and in part due to the uncertainty in the economy with lower oil prices. The past year has been a rocky road for the Texas economy. Even so, the state business complex has proven to be resilient. Despite the losses in the goods-producing sectors, the Texas economy is now much more diversified than in the past, as shown in the growth in services and other sectors. I expect 2016 to be somewhat calmer in terms of the state economy, with growth across most sectors and some late strength in oil and gas, and I wish you all the best in the year to come. __________________________________________ Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com). He also serves as Institute Distinguished Professor of Economic Theory and Method at the International Institute for Advanced Studies.

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The Gladewater Mirror Periodicals Postage Paid Gladewater, TX USPS 575-140 ISSN Number 1045-5671 The Gladewater Mirror is published weekly by Bardwell Ink, LLC 211 N. Main Street Gladewater, TX POSTMASTER: Send PS3579 to The Gladewater Mirror P.O. Box 1549 Gladewater, TX 75647

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Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 23

Locals honor civil rights leader

Celebrating a man with a dream - MLK national holiday

Pothole of the Week

This week’s “Pothole of the Week” is on Allison Street. Help us locate more potholes and tget them fixed by sending your favorite pothole to GWpotholes@aol.com.

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Plane crash leaves 1 dead, 1 injured

By Phillip Williams/Correspondent GILMER--A 73-year-old Gladewater man was killed and his wife severely injured when the airplane he was piloting crashed in a field south of Gilmer on the night of Jan. 12. Samuel Oliver Lucky was pronounced dead at the scene by Upshur County Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Rhonda Welch at 2 a.m. the next day, Welch said. His wife, 57-year-old Pamela Rickman Lucky, was flown to East Texas Medical Center in Tyler in critical condition, said Jean Dark, spokeswoman for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Pamela Lucky, who was reportedly not found until several hours after the crash, suffered numerous broken bones, but is expected to recuperate, said Welch. The DPS said the incident occurred just west of U.S. 271 near Eagle Road on a ranch in a field, but Welch said it happened at the end of Tranquility Road on an oil lease in her precinct. The northbound Cessna Skyhawk struck some trees perhaps Rescuers search the plane crash wreckage that half a mile south of the Gilmer airport when it appeared to claimed the life of Gladewater pilot Sam Lucky and come in low, the judge said. Welch said she did not talk to Mrs. injured his wife Pamela last week in southern Upshur Lucky personally, but that the survivor stated that the plane “had County. DPS Photo looped kind of around” the airport and was “right in line with

Compiled by Suzanne Bardwell Faith and family were the foundation that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life was built upon. People throughout the nation joined together Monday to honor Dr. King. Dr. King was born Michael Luther King Jr. on Jan. 15, 1929 but later had his name changed to Martin. His grandfather began the family’s long service as pastors of Atlanta, Georgia’s Ebenezer Baptist Church. Dr. King graduated from high school at age 15 and received his B.A. degree in 1948 from Morehouse College in Atlanta where both his father and grandfather graduated. After three years of theological study at Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania where he was elected president of a predominately white senior class, he was awarded his bachelor of divinity degree in 1951. He enrolled at Boston University and completed his graduate work receiving his doctorate degree in 1955. In Boston, he met and married Coretta Scott, with whom he had two sons and two daughters. In 1954 Dr. King became pastor of the Dexter Ave. Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Also at this time he was a member of the executive committee of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). After leading the 382 day bus boycott successfully, on Dec. 21,

1 Section, 10 pages

1956 the Supreme Court declared unconstitutional laws requiring segregation on buses. In 1957 Dr. King was elected president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference which provided leadership for the civil rights movement. The ideals for this organization he took from Christianity. In the next 11 years Dr. King traveled over six million miles and spoke over 2,500 times. He also wrote five books and numerous articles during this period. Dr. King conferred with President John F. Kennedy and campaigned for President Lyndon B. Johnson. He was arrested upwards of 20 times and assaulted at least four times. He was awarded five honorary degrees and was named Time Magazine’s Man of the Year in 1963. At the age of 35, Dr. King was the youngest man to have received the Nobel Peace Prize. On the evening of April 4, 1968, while standing on the balcony of his motel in Memphis, Tennessee he was assassinated. Dr. King was the driving force behind watershed events such as the Montgomery Bus boycott and the March on Washington which helped bring about such landmark legislation as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He is remembered each year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day which became a federal holiday in 1986 to commemorate his contributions to America.

the runway” when “something happened--boom.” Welch gave this summation of events surrounding the crash: The Luckys had been to Sulphur Springs to dine, and had visited Sam Lucky’s brother and sister-in-law there that day. The Gladewater couple’s Cessna Skyhawk left the airport there at 7 p.m. and was scheduled to arrive at the Gilmer airport at 7:35. A relative of Sam Lucky called the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office and asked it to check the Gilmer airport to see if the couple’s vehicle was there since they were not answering their phone. The vehicle was indeed there, so the office began contacting other airports to see if the couple might be at one of them. When that failed to turn up their whereabouts, the sheriff’s office contacted the Texas Department of Public Safety to use its electronic tracking device off Pamela Lucky’s cell phone, which located the phone near the crash scene. First responders heard her calling for help and discovered she was about halfway out of the plane’s window. Mrs. Lucky said she had been there about five hours. News of Sam Lucky’s death hit those who knew him hard. Continued on Page 2

Can’t We Fix This?

Last year the Gladewater Mirror introduced its weekly “Pothole of the Week” feature and it appears to be working, because potholes that had been a permanent fixture on Gladewater streets have begun being fixed. Sometimes it just takes pointing out problems to get them fixed. Following that same line of thought - we now introduce our newest feature - “Can’t We Fix This?”. Maybe it’s the old “can’t see the forest for the trees” train of thought, but there seems to be many obvious problems that should be easy and inexpensive fixes around town. Our first “Can’t We Fix This?” is this street sign at the corner of US 271 and Pacific. It just looks bad, so - “Can’t We Fix This?”

Last chance to enter Kenny Rogers ticket giveaway PICKIN’ PRIZE There is only one Kenny Rogers and this is your last chance to enter the Gladewater Mirror’s concert ticket giveaway. The undisputed king of crossover country music, who has sold over 100 million records and charted 120 hit singles in his amazing career, including “The Gambler,” “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town,” “You Decorated My Life,” “Islands in the Stream” (with Dolly Parton), “Through the Years,” “Coward of the County,” “Lady” and dozens more, will be at the Horseshoe Casino’s Riverdome in Bossier City, La., Jan. 29. Rogers is hitting the road for what he says is his farewell tour. So don’t miss your chance to see this legendary singer. The Mirror is giving away 1 pair of tickets to a lucky new subscriber and 1 pair of tickets will be awarded in a random drawing. To enter simply purchase a 1-year subscription to the Mirror for $29 (you can get 2 entries for a 2-year subscription) or fill out the entry form inside this week’s edition. Must be 21 years of age to enter and no photo copies of form will be accepted. The drawings will be held Jan. 21. Good luck!

Gladewater Mirror Publisher Jim Bardwell presents champion Pigskin Pronosticator JD Shipp with a trophy for his 2015 football season prediction accuracy. Shipp beat out a group of sports pickers that included: Gladewater ISD Superintendent Dr. J.P. Richardson; Union Grove ISD Superintendent Brian Gray; White Oak ISD Superintendent Mike Gilbert; Austin Bank President and Bear alum Todd Clifton; Mirror sports writer Ellis Hayden; and Bardwell. Shipp’s stat prep included his years as a Bear football player and as a super fan of his high school team and the Aggies. The former First Team All District Bear offensive lineman swears it was the Bear Juice during his high school football playing years at GHS that toughened him up for competition. “It was horrible,” Shipp said. “I don’t know if we drank it because it was helpful or if we just wanted to show how tough we were to one another.” Whichever the case, Shipp proved his competitive toughness with the highest rate of pigskin pick success. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

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Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 14

1 Section, 12 pages

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Allen, Haralson named Man and Woman of Year

Man of the Year Christian Allen is presented his plaque Gladewater City Secretary Melba Haralson was GHS senior Taylor Radford was named Youth of the of recognition by JD Shipp. announced by Lois Reed as Woman Citizen of the Year. Year by GHS Assistant Principal Darren Richardson. By Suzanne Bardwell The 85th Gladewater Chamber of Commerce Banquet speaker/ artist Richard Hight was a hit with the capacity audience at last week’s annual banquet. Hight was sponsored by Gladewater National Bank for the event. During his inspirational message the Hight produced two works of art which will be displayed at Gladewater National Bank for the community to enjoy. The key to Hight’s speech was that it was more important to focus on individual strengths rather than to focus on weaknesses. “What makes you different will make you great,” Hight said.

Master of Ceremonies, GHS Assistant Principal Darren Richardson welcomed the crowd. Rev. Dick Dobbins of First United Methodist Church gave the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Allyson Phillips. In addition to the awards pictured, Citizens of the Month Amy Davis, Marilyn Johnston, Tom Perryman, Melissa Holcomb, Rickey Wallace, Rhonda Wright, Melville Murphy and Rocky Hawkins were acknowledged with plaques. Main Street special recognition included The Heartland Group, the Gladewater Police Department, Christian Allen and James Moore.

Economic Growth Members recognized included Tommy Ellis Trucking, TICO Technical Installation, Coffee-ology, Gladewater School of Massage, McKaig Chevrolet-Buick Dealership, Shipp’s Marine, J.O. Williams Ford Dealership and Gym 101. Also recognized for contributions to the community were Shelia Faggans organizer for the Caring Hearts 5K Run held annually and John Paul and Beverly Tallent for their dedication to the Chamber and to the community. The evening concluded with a benediction by St. James Baptist Church pastor Damien Reese.

Lansdale indicted Safety hazards not just with rent houses in parents’ deaths

By Jim Bardwell The son of a 68-year-old Gladewater couple, found murdered in their home on January 14, was indicted Friday by a Gregg County Grand Jury on a charge of capital murder. Casey Lansdale, 41, was charged with murder after police found his parents - Raye and Charles Lansdale – dead inside their residence located in the 1500 block of N. Main. Police discovered the murders while on a welfare check. Raye and Charles Lansdale had been reported missing. LANSDALE Continued on Page 3

IRS phone scams continue locally

By Suzanne Bardwell Diane Allen reports that the IRS phone scams are still being floated in the greater Gladewater community. “I got a call last week and if I hadn’t seen the scam reported previously it would have frightened me, “ she said. The IRS continues to warn consumers to guard against scam phone calls from thieves intent on stealing their money or their identity. Criminals pose as the IRS to trick victims out of the money or personal information. The IRS suggests the following tips to avoid becoming a victim: *Scammers make unsolicited calls. Thieves call taxpayers claiming to be IRS officials. They demand that the victim pay a bogus tax bill. They con the victim into sending cash, usually through a prepaid debit card or wire transfer. They may also leave “urgent callback requests through phone “robo-calls” or via phishing email. *Callers try to scare their victims. Many phone scams use threats to intimidate and bully a victim into paying. They may even threaten to arrest, deport or revoke the license of their victim if they don’t get the money. *Scams use call ID spoofing. Scammers often alter caller ID Continued on Page 3

By Jim Bardwell The City of Gladewater is hosting a public hearing on May 26 to discuss the proposed “Certificate of Occupancy” ordinance, which could require all residential rental property to be inspected before a new tenant is allowed to move in. The public is invited to attend at the Former Students’ Building at 6 p.m. and speak on this topic to help the city council make a more informed decision. At last month’s city council meeting, several landlords loudly opposed the ordinance saying it would created an undue burden on property owners and renters. Landlords told city officials they needed to focus on other problems in the city - such as water quality and street repair before starting to dictate how property owners should manager their own businesses. And social media has been on fire with dozens of people voicing their opinions on the current condition of Gladewater’s rent houses. And while most of the focus has been directed toward residential properties, there are several vacant downtown commercial properties which are in plain sight and an eyesore to Gladewater visitors, not to mention those who live here and see it every day. These properties are black eyes to Gladewater. For example - 109 N. Main St. and 115 S. Dean St. are both vacant and 109 N. Main has a large plate glass window that is broken and is in need of replacement, and appears to be held together with duct tape. There is heavy foot traffic in front of this property and should someone

accidentally lean on the broken window it could shatter and cause serous injury. It would appear to be a hazard to the general public who walk the downtown city sidewalks. This damaged window has been this way for many months and both buildings have been vacant and rundown for several years. Yet, nothing

City taps Cannon to lead Main Street Kathy Jo Cannon was raised in Gladewater and graduated from GHS in 1988. Recently she moved back home to be near her parents after 17 years working for Wyndham Vacation Resorts. She has 24 years of experience in hospitality, customer service, recruiting, admissions, design, event planning, marketing and training professionals. Cannon has been working at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Tyler as a Community Health Worker. KATHY JO CANNON She will begin her new role The Gladewater Main Street as Gladewater Main Street Program has a new manager Manager next week. and she’s from Gladewater. “The search committee

consisting of myself, Robert Johnson, and Jim Bardwell had a tough task of choosing between many quality candidates,” said Gladewater City Manager Theo Melancon. “It is exciting to bring on someone from the community who brings over 17 years of experience in hospitality, tourism, and event coordination. “The search committee highlighted a candidate’s ability to ‘hit the ground running’ and I believe we made a great choice as Kathy Jo will be able to take Main Street where it needs to go in short order.”

Melancon said he envisions Cannon and the Main Street Program focusing on “revitalizing our downtown through developing long term plans for the historic preservation of the downtown, lowering vacancy rates, and driving foot traffic to downtown. If we make the downtown economy more vibrant, there will be greater opportunities to design and preserve our heritage.” Cannon attends St. James Baptist Church in Gladewater. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Philander Smith College in Arkansas.

has appeared to have been done to fix these buildings. Is duct tape an adequate form of repair for such a large plate glass window or any glass for that matter? Isn’t the owner or the manager of the property responsible for repairs when the general Continued on Page 2

Pothole of the Week

Here’s an oldie, but a goodie. This week’s “Pothole of the Week” is on Center Street, right off U.S. 80. We’re sure this one has been featured before and it was even fixed. But the fix must not have lasted. Send your favorite pothole to our new email address: pothole@gladewatermirror.com.

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Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Couple indicted for abusing horses By Phillip Williams & Jim Bardwell GILMER --The Upshur County Grand Jury on March 31 returned 13 indictments - including two against a Longview couple for cruelty to livestock animals in Gladewater, said District Attorney Billy Byrd’s office. The two indictments against the couple were initially sealed but following their arrest last Thursday, Byrd’s office identified the pair as 33-year-old Alisha Rae Duvall and her husband, 30-year-old Ronnie Arthur Knox. The couple, charged in connection with starvation of horses on Rodeo Street, have since bonded out of jail, according to Byrd’s office manager, Lisa King, who said Duvall was released from Gregg County Jail on $10,000 bond. Last month the couple were in Gladewater City Court as officials were seeking to permanently remove seized horses from their Gladewater property. Following a lengthy hearing, Gladewater City Judge Donna Blalock took the couple’s nine horses and awarded them to Safe Haven Equine Rescue following a court hearing. Blalock found the animals to have been cruelly treated, although Knox claimed he had fed them regularly. One of the horses, which was found struggling on the ground when rescuers arrived at the five-acre pasture on South Rodeo Street, later died from lack of food and improper care. The judge granted full custody of all eight horses to Safe Haven, which has been nursing them back to health. Richard Fincher, Safe Haven Executive Director, testified that the animals were seriously under weight - in some cases as much as 200 pounds under normal weight. A veterinarian testified that the horses were “starved to death” and city prosecutor Madison Hood displayed color photos of each horse. Knox presented receipts for hay he had bought over the past year and his attorney tried to blame the malnourished state on a feeding syndrome, but in the end Blalock was not convinced. Duvall could face up to two years in state jail if convicted and she could face additional charges related to the eight surviving horses. According to Gregg County jail records, Duvall has been arrested six times on charges related to animal cruelty. In 2009, she was found guilty of misdemeanor animal cruelty and sentenced to two years’ probation. In other Upshur County indictments - defendants, charges and bond information include: * Connie Jean Richter, 39, of Hawkins, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on Jan. 2. She remained in county jail under $10,000 bond. * James Douglas Baker, 40, of Longview, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on Feb. 5, $7,500 bond * Ronald Curtis McGee Jr., 39, of Gilmer, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on Feb. 21, $10,000 * Jarrod Craig McBride, 35, of Ore City, unlawful possession of firearm by felon on Feb. 23. He remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. * Charles Richard Coup III, 30, of Longview, driving while intoxicated--subsequent offense on Feb. 25, $10,000 * Dana Christian King, 34, of Winnsboro, driving while intoxicated--subsequent offense last Dec. 19. His bond is $25,000. * Domingo Esparza, 57, of Mt. Pleasant, driving while intoxicated--subsequent offense last Dec. 3, $10,000 * Gilmer resident John Patrick Walker, who turned 44 April 5, possession of controlled substance with intent to deliver (methamphetamine) on Jan. 21, $25,000

Vol. 75, No. 15

Cruisin’

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1 Section, 12 pages 31st Annual

Gusher Days blows into town Friday Car enthusiasts got to show off their rides in four cities this past Saturday as the Highway 271 Progressive Car Cruise rolled down the highway for the third year. The event began with breakfast in downtown Gladewater, sponsored by the Gladewater Main Street Program, then headed north with stops in Gilmer, Pittsburg and finally Mount Pleasant. About 65 cars were on display at each stop. The car cruise is a highlight for the car owners and fans alike who get to see the wide variety of restored antiques and muscle cars. The regional partnership is a great investment for tourism as it helps promote events throughout the region. Photos by Christian Allen

Listen up! Clear your calendar this weekend - because the 31st East Texas Gusher Days festival is rolling into the downtown area Friday through Saturday.

Carnival Opens: April 14th Luncheon: April 15th 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Chamber Main Events: April 15-16 www.Gusher-Days.com Check out this year’s Gladewater Mirror Gusher Days special issue so you won’t miss out on all the carnival rides and games, sampling all the chili cook-off offerings, browsing all the arts and crafts vendors lined up and down the brick streets, and Continued on Page 12

Mirror recognized at press convention

Jim Bardwell, owner and publisher of the Gladewater Mirror was named Journalist of the Year for small weeklies. The award is based on quality of writing, investigative reporting and impact on the community.

The Gladewater Mirror was recognized for journalistic excellence this past weekend at the 90th North & East Texas Press Association convention in Longview. Owner/publisher Jim Bardwell was named Journalist of the Year with the judges commenting: “great writing from news and feature and exceptional work on volunteers being asked to sign ‘accountability agreement’seriously? Great job! Makes me wonder if a change was made!?” The Mirror again won for Community Service. “Potholes & Eyesores: Fill it Up & Wipe it Out! This was a great thing you did for your community and readers. It’s a shame when people have to ‘shame’ others into doing things to better our areas. However we do what

we must to get things done. Keep up the excellent work!” judges said. The Mirror also won first for Editorial Writing with judges commenting: “Great editorial! Freedom of the Press, indeed!” Also loved the thanksgiving editorial “Our tables are full and we are still dissatisfied.” Suzanne Bardwell won first for column writing with the columns “Can’t Stop this” about the game where Caleb Williamson was injured and public prayer filled a football stadium. “Very powerful!” judges commented. The judges also noted on a column titled “Higher Ground”: “Great column. We liked both pieces. They were well written with a strong message.” The Mirror also won second place in Feature Photo, second in News Photo and third in

Sports Photo with Jennifer Bardwell’s action shot of a wrestler flying through the air at last year’s Gusher Days especially impressing the judges. Suzanne Bardwell was also named second in Photographer of the Year honors with judges commenting on the portfolio of photos submitted: “Your sports photos conveyed all the excitement and action of those moments.” The Gladewater Round Up Rodeo tab won second in Special Sections competition and the Mirror took third in advertising composition. Other awards included fourth in Sports Coverage and Headline Writing. In overall division competition the Gladewater Mirror won second in Sweepstakes.

Local sales tax revenues bounce back up

From Staff Reports Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced he will send cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts $591.4 million in local sales tax allocations for April, 2.6 percent more than in April 2015. These allocations are based on sales made in February by businesses that report tax monthly. “The cities of Dallas, Austin, Sugar Land and Fort Worth saw substantial increases in sales tax allocations that helped stop a four-month streak of declining sales tax allocations for the state overall,” Hegar said. “Energy-centric cities such as Houston and Midland continue to see decreases in sales tax allocations.” Gladewater’s sales tax revenue moved back into the black last month, up 3.86-percent over last year’s monthly figures $72,922.62 in 2016 compared to $70,212.13 in March 2015. The positive upswing in March also helped chip away at the year-to-date red ink - $314,234.89 so far this year compared to $322,182.36 during the same reporting period in 2015 for -2.46-percent, almost half of last month’s yearly decline of -4.22.

County City

Current Net Payment Comparable Rate This Period Payment Prior Year

% Change

2016 Payments To date

Gregg Clarksville City 1.000% 2,355.05 2,567.06 -8.25% 11,870.28 Easton 1.000% 778.49 298.05 161.19% 3,577.34 Gladewater 1.500% 72,922.62 70,212.13 3.86% 314,234.89 Kilgore 1.500% 506,890.04 645,693.90 -21.49% 2,852,198.29 Lakeport 1.500% 11,007.08 10,727.04 2.61% 51,047.47 Longview 1.500% 2,189,930.15 2,237,300.30 -2.11% 9,834,987.00 Warren City 1.000% 378.60 307.63 23.06% 2,016.36 White Oak 1.500% 65,448.36 83,583.26 -21.69% 276,589.74 County Total 2,849,710.39 3,050,689.37 -6.58% 13,346,521.37 Upshur Big Sandy 1.500% 18,274.64 19,851.97 -7.94% 75,290.06 East Mountain 1.000% 1,998.12 1,677.60 19.10% 7,913.85 Gilmer 1.500% 123,138.07 118,491.92 3.92% 520,921.51 Ore City 1.500% 14,355.94 11,790.51 21.75% 56,229.49 Union Grove 1.000% 204.53 204.19 0.16% 882.25 County Total 157,971.30 152,016.19 3.91% 661,237.16

CLEAN SWEEP

Gladewater’s City-Wide Cleanup was held Saturday and was a big success, with city crews helping residents get rid of 13 tons of unwanted items, including old tires. The cleanup effort comes just in time for this weekend’s East Texas Gusher Days. Photos by Christian Allen

2015 Payments To date 15,213.17 2,028.11 322,182.36 3,089,605.65 53,500.99 10,631,030.39 2,465.91 360,559.95 14,476,586.53 78,463.07 7,384.40 497,160.21 48,215.53 878.77 632,101.98

% Change -21.97% 76.38% -2.46% -7.68% -4.58% -7.48% -18.23% -23.28% -7.80% -4.04% 7.16% 4.77% 16.62% 0.39% 4.60%

Free Download!

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Seventeen area superintendents throw support behind Simpson

Vol. 75, No. 16

1 Section, 12 pages

Seventeen East Texas school superintendents from across Senate District 1 endorsed State Representative David Simpson for Texas Senate. Simpson faces Rep. Bryan Hughes in the GOP Runoff on May 24. Gladewater mayorial candidate Mark Carpenter answers a question at Monday night’s political forum. “After much thought, I have decided to endorse Representative David Simpson in the Senate District 1 runoff election, said Michael E. Gilbert, superintendent of White Oak I.S.D. “I have had the opportunity to meet and work with both Representative Simpson and Representative Bryan Hughes in past legislative sessions. I firmly believe that David Simpson is committed to the students and professional educators of our Texas public schools. He will be a strong voice for all students in the Senate district despite the efforts of our lieutenant governor to divert taxpayer funds to finance private schools.” Gilbert is joined by the superintendents from 16 other districts (Arp, Avinger, Big Photos by Sandy, Bloomburg, Carlisle, Suzanne Bardwell DeKalb, Maud, LibertyEylau, Longview, New Chapel The winners of the 31st Hill, New Diana, Sabine, Annual East Texas Gusher Simms, Tatum, Union Grove, Days Parade, sponsored by Waskom). Gladewater National Bank Another East Texas Gusher Dr. J.P. Richardson said were: First Place – Ricky Days is in the record books Monday he does not endorse Wallace and his Antique after days of exciting carnival Carriage; Second Place – candidates in his role as rides, great food and music, a Sam Walker and his 1968 Gladewater Superintendent. vintage car show, 32 entries orange Camaro; and Third “I am honored by the in the parade, the crowning Place went to the GHS of another CASI chili cooksupport and trust placed in National Honor Society’s off champion and more than me to protect our students, Diaper Drive five dozen commercial/arts our teachers, our values, and and crafts vendors lining the most critically—the necessary brick streets. and equitable funding for Gusher Days president the 83 school districts that Nick Foster said the Hip Hop span Senate District 1,” said carnival owners said this Simpson. year’s event “was the best he “As we enter the next has ever done at Gusher Days. legislative session, funding I visited with most of the battles for our public schools vendors and the vast majority said they were happy with will be the greatest challenge the crowds and they had great faced by our elected officials. days, revenue wise.” Once again, the courts have Foster invited others to get ruled the legislature has involved, saying “We are not provided adequate and looking for more directors. equitable funding. It has been “I was impressed with the a recurring theme and it is overall event. I want to extend time for the Texas Legislature a special thanks to GISD to finally face the reality of for their involvement in the their constitutional obligation. parade and Gusher Days . As I will be standing firm with always a huge thank you to all directors and helpers that our students, our parents, and make our event possible.” our educators,” concluded Look inside for more photos and the list of winners from the festival Simpson.

usher

ays 2016

Another successful year

50¢

Candidates field questions at political forum By Jim Bardwell Three incumbent Gladewater City Council candidates told a crowd of about 50 people that they didn’t think it was necessary to ask voters to approve spending $2.3 million for the city’s new ball field complex, now under construction. While three of the four challengers said they would have given voters the opportunity to approve or deny the expensive project. Mayor Harold Wells and challenger Mark Carpenter, Place 2 councilman Leon Wa t s o n a n d c h a l l e n g e r Larry Seery, and Place 3 councilwoman Lana Niemann and challenger Mark May fielded questions at the Gladewater Mirror/Gladewater Garden Club forum held at the First United Methodist Church’s Jeter Hall. Place 3 candidate Johnathon Allen was a no-show for the event. Watson said the city was “desperate to build a ball field so our kids would have a place to play” and the city was “pressed for time.” Wells blamed the decision Continued on Page 9

August move-in still on target for new school

By Suzanne Bardwell The GISD school board approved checks totaling $1,817,763.31 to Brady Environmental, Huckabee and RLM for school construction costs. With 49.62 percent of bond funds expended there is a balance of $13,813,129.94 still available. Superintendent Dr. J.P. Richardson reports that the construction is still on target for the August move in. He also said that furniture is being put together for Weldon at this time. The move-in into the new building in the middle of May then the current Weldon area will be remodeled for Broadway to move in during August. A stadium update reported that the sound system should be finished soon for baseball and softball. A security system is also being installed in the baseball/softball field areas.. Continued on Page 9

Kilgore College’s new president addresses Gladewater Lions Club

What were they thinking?

Someone felt the need to scratch their name into the bench at the War Memorial honoring Bradley J. Gaudet who gave his life for his country in 2011. If you recognize that your child or someone you know did this please impress upon them the seriousness of their lack of respect for a fallen soldier and his family. And, it would be appropriate for them to pay for repair. photos by Suzanne Bardwell

By Suzanne Bardwell Kilgore College trustee and Lion James Walker introduced the new KC President Dr. Brenda Kays as last week’s program speaker for the community organization. “My goal is to lead KC forward,” Dr. Kays said. “Not to necessarily fill Bill Holda’s shoes. I will just be doing the job in heels.” As the first woman president in Kilgore College history, Kays succeeded Dr. Bill Holda who had served as president since 1996. Dr. Kays earned her Master of Education in Counseling degree from Midwestern State University and a doctorate of education from the University of North Texas in Denton. “Data tells us that students that attend community college first are more successful,” Dr. Kays said. “Community colleges are warmer, friendlier and often students are first generation college students.” Ensuring their success is high on Dr. Kays’

KC President Dr. Brenda Kays list of priorities. “We will continue to keep an eye on student success,” she said. “Students are entrusting us with their goals and dreams.” She said that America needs talent and Continued on Page 4

Page 2, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, April 20, 2016

To follow or not to follow

Rules exist for a reason. Usually. Some we have a tendency to bend, others we break with a wink, and others we follow either out of personal safety concerns or out of respect. I have been known to have a bit of a lead foot. Most of the time I am consumed with whatever is on my little old mind and I don’t realize I am breaking the law. As soon as I do, I nearly always ease off the pedal. I always get a fresh plate on the second go round at a buffet and I do not double dip at a party. I never cheat at games. If someone beats me they are better than me and I know it. A rule I broke with abandon as a journalism teacher who had to motivate a group of teenagers to produce a nationally competitive K-12 yearbook and a high school newspaper was to allow food in my production room. Always. Drove my principal crazy but he loved me anyway. (Also, when he needed a snack he knew where to go.) When I was a student I was a bit chatty when I should have been listening. I can remember having to write 1,000 times as a freshman in high school…”I will not be a detrimental influence in class”. Apparently whoever I was chatting with couldn’t keep up with their work. Personally, I have always been a multi-tasker. In an emergency I will go into a men’s restroom (single

Suzanne Bardwell use only). This is one of those rules that is right up there with breaking the glass and pulling the fire alarm. When it is an emergency it is an emergency people. I have never vandalized anything in my entire life. I don’t know what my Mom said or did to ingrain in me that children don’t write on walls, or scratch their name into memorials. I wish I knew, then I would create handout instruction sheets for new parents and tell them they would be tested round about the time their kid turns 13. I also never assume when attending a hosted event with specific rules and boundaries that I can make up my own. My mother would have given me a good old Sunday church service pinch and asked me who “made you queen of this universe?” One thing I learned from good old Mom is that it sure ain’t me. And one last thing, the only time my name will be scratched on a memorial will be when it includes my birth and death date.

They say I’m a picky eater ... Wow - people were everywhere last Saturday in downtown Gladewater and boy it was fun. Everywhere I walked Jim there were crowds of people – all pretty nice, too. I got to be a chili dog at East Texas Gusher Days by helping Jim and Suzanne with the East Texas Gusher Days Chili Cookoff. The Gladewater Mirror and R&K Distributors are sponsors of the event, so I was there representing the newspaper. And I had to work pretty hard all day Saturday – from laying around and watching Jim set up the tables and chairs to laying around and watching all the judges sample 23 chili entries. Now you might think I was being lazy, but you would be wrong. I was very busy laying around keeping a close eye (both my blue and brown eye) out for falling cheese cubes that might fall from the judging table. Yep, it’s a hard job, but some puppy had to do it. Speaking of eating – Jim and Suzanne say I’ve been getting pretty picky lately – not eating as soon as they put the food bowl down. I guess they’re really worried because they have changed brands several times and even tied to bribe me with cheese. Actually, I’m not that picky – I’m just an only puppy so what’s the hurry? I mean, the food isn’t going anywhere – unless one of those pesky outside cats sneaks inside and steals my food. And I guess that could happen – those cats are pretty vile felines. Apparently I’m not the only puppy with picky eating habits. Our friends at Texas A&M have been doing some studies on the subject. I guess my twin down there – Reveille – is not cleaning his bowl, either. According to Dr. Sarah Griffin, lecturer at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, many pet owners are becoming more conscious of the quality of food they are feeding their pets, but it is often difficult to determine what constitutes a healthy and nutritious meal. A dog or cat’s nutritional requirements vary based on age and health, which may leave some pet owners questioning how to provide the right kind of food. “The ingredient list on pet food does not provide information on the quality of the ingredients or the nutritional adequacy of the overall diet,” she explained. “However, the ingredients are listed on the label in descending order of weight. Ingredients with higher water content are listed higher on the list. Because water is included in the weight of the ingredients, ingredients

Jack

The Newshound with higher water content will be higher on the list than similar amounts of dry ingredients, even though the ingredient listed higher may actually contribute fewer nutrients to the overall diet. For example, if chicken is approximately 70 percent moisture and chicken meal is 10 percent moisture in a can of food, chicken will be listed higher on the ingredient list than chicken meal, even if both are providing the same amount of actual chicken.” Although chicken may look more appealing on an ingredient list than chicken meal, both can provide an adequate amount of chicken for your pet. Chicken meal is the dry rendered product from a combination of clean chicken flesh and skin with or without bone. Contrary to popular belief, chicken meal does not include feathers, heads, feet, or entrails. In addition, Griffin said the ingredient list may be used to make the product appealing to pet owners. “Some pet foods include ingredients such as artichokes, blueberries, or lentils on their ingredients list to appeal to pet owners, but the ingredients are often in such small amounts that they have little or no nutritional benefits.” The ingredient list can be confusing, but the most important aspect for pet owners to look for is the nutritional adequacy statement. This statement, supported by The Association of American Feed Control Officials, will determine if the product is “complete and balanced.” Pet owners should also consider important characteristics of their dog and cat when selecting a pet food, including their pet’s age, health, and activity level. Griffin recommended consulting your veterinarian to determine your pet’s nutritional needs. “Veterinarians should make nutritional recommendations according to the patient’s age, activity level, lifestyle, body weight, medical history, underlying morbidities and current medications,” she said. “In general, puppies and kittens need higher protein and fat than older dogs and cats. If you have questions about your pet food, bring the label to your veterinarian, so they can help you determine what is best for your pet.” Pet owners often face another common problem: deciding whether canned or dry food is best for their pet. Griffin explained. “In general, canned foods are higher in water than dry foods, but dry foods are higher in carbohydrates than canned foods. I recommend introducing both dry and canned food to puppies and kittens early in life because it will help the animal be more accepting of change if they ever require a specific diet later in life.” So see Jim and Suzanne, it’s not just me.

KC fraternity inducts Carter Upsilon Delta, the Kilgore College chapter of Sigma Kappa Delta, the national English honor society for two year colleges recently inducted 34 KC students at a ceremony on April 14. Area students honored with membership for their achievements includes Gladewater’s Anna Carter White Oak’s Jamie Baber, Madison Belcher and Nicolas Gaviria; Longview’s Trystan Deck, Phillip Foster, Tiffaney Goodwin, Aaron Key, Cruz Mendez, Daniel Moreno, Staci Raffety and Kimberley Scott and from Gilmer Morgan Miller and Mikayla Patterson. Membership requires students maintain a grade point average of at least 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, to earn lower that a “B” in a college English class and to complete at least one semester of college studies. KC began its chapter in 2009. Jason Graves department chair for language development serves as sponsor.

News & Advertising Deadlines: Noon Monday

Office Hours 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Telephone: 903-845-2235 Fax: 903-845-2237

Email: gladewatermirror@aol.com

Owners:

Jim & Suzanne Bardwell Publisher/Editor: Jim Bardwell Advertising: Suzanne Bardwell Office Manager: Tiffany Hobbs

Subscriptions are $29/year in Gregg, Smith & Upshur counties and payable in advance.

THE ECONOMIST By Dr. M. Ray Perryman

Oil and water ...

“Whiskey is for drinking and water is for fighting” is a sentiment often attributed to Mark Twain. As far back as the earliest human settlements, the availability of water has determined the location of civilization, and water is essential to municipal, agricultural, and industrial development. Many areas of the United States (including Texas) face a notable challenge in providing sufficient fresh water supplies to meet the needs of growing populations and economies. Since the historic drought of the 1950s, Texas has been planning and investing in needed infrastructure to increase available supplies. From the 1960s through the early 1980s, most of the state’s reservoirs were constructed; since that time, the focus has shifted to alternatives such as conservation, brush control, and recycling. Even with this commitment to planning for water needs, a dry year can bring on shortages, particularly in the arid regions of the western half of the state. At the best of times, supplies are tight in many areas. Against this backdrop, the use of water in the process of oil and gas exploration and development (including fracking) is highly visible, even though the industry uses only 1-2% of water in Texas. To compound the problem, many production areas (such as the Permian Basin and parts of south Texas) are drought prone, exacerbating the problem. From the perspective of an oil or gas company, water represents a significant expense. Water acquisition and management can be about 10% of the cost of drilling and dealing with the water that accompanies oil can devour up to two-thirds of monthly operating costs once the well is producing. First, companies must acquire clean water to use in the fracking process and other aspects of drilling. Second, they must dispose of water that flows back during the completion process as well as what’s generated along with the oil. All in all, water management can cost millions of dollars over the lifetime of a well. With drought and water shortages, companies have developed ways to use brackish water for fracking rather than fresh. Many companies are becoming much more adept at reusing water, and methods for recycling water are improving. State regulations have also made the use of recycled water more feasible since 2013, and operators are now allowed to recycle water for fracking uses and transfer fluids for recycling between leases without a permit. Another option is to purchase treated wastewater from municipalities. Recycled wastewater from Odessa is now ready for use (as of January 2016) after completion of an enhancement to the city’s water treatment facilities undertaken as a public-private partnership effort involving Pioneer Natural Resources, a large firm operating in the area. A similar project has been considered for the City of Midland, though is now on hold with low oil prices. Public-private partnerships such as these are an excellent way to obtain a win-win, with cities obtaining additional revenue and oil companies getting the water they need. Oil companies must also dispose of flowback water (which occurs during completion of the well) and produced water (which is water produced as part of the production of the well). The amount of produced water varies significantly by well and location, and 10 barrels for each barrel of oil produced is not an uncommon ratio, with some cases as high as 50 to 1. Options for water disposal include injecting into a disposal well, various methods of recycling and reusing, and transporting to a centralized water treatment facility. Water injected into a disposal well is permanently removed from the hydrological cycle, which is a clear downside in dry areas. Water treatment at a centralized facility is an option that is also growing, but the significant capital investment required has thus far limited such facilities to the largest producers. There have been calls for industry initiatives to develop the infrastructure for more use of centralized treatment facilities, which are more likely to occur in the future after prices rebound. Beyond these explicit costs, there are other considerations. One of these is community perceptions. Oil and gas companies typically spend substantial time and money to enhance their image in the areas where they operate. They may endow scholarships or donate items to local high schools, participate in community activities by sponsoring golf tournaments or other events, and allow employees time off for volunteer activities. In deciding how to manage water, one consideration is how area residents will see the oil company action. For example, it may be worth spending a little more money to recycle water because area residents (and others) view that as a preferable option and as a commitment to the community. Another consideration in the water decision is risk avoidance. Fines for rule violations under the Texas Natural Resources Code (which includes provisions to protect water) are steep, and the Environmental Protection Agency can also levy large fines. If a problem occurs, litigation and cleanup is yet another expensive possibility. In short, companies may commit additional funds for water management in the near term in order to reduce the chances of expensive consequences down the road. While the pressure is off for now due to lower crude prices and reduced drilling activity, it is only a matter of time before the problem resurfaces. As drilling activity rebounds in the future, the need for water by the industry will also rise. Improvements in recycling methods and other initiatives to reclaim water are crucial elements of a long-term solution.

The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, June 15, 2016, Page 9

Jacoby wins Quintana Xtreme Bulls

Elliot Jacoby from Fredericksburg TX. won first place and the coveted Johnny Quintana Memorial belt buckle, along with $3,919.80 in Wednesday night’s Xtreme Bulls at the Gladewater Round-Up Rodeo. Jacob rode Western Haulers Raptor RG bull and scored a 87.5. In 1971 Johnny Quintana drew a bull, V-61, a bull that had never been ridden at the time - until he met Quintana in Gladewater and set a world record of 94 points.

Work continues on Lake Gladewater’s boat dock by the fishing pier. Photo by Suzanne Bardwell

Lee Library Summer Youth Reading Program “On Your Mark, Get Set…Read!”

Chris Villanueva won the Friday and Mason Spain won the Wednesday and Thursday Saturday night Junior Bull Riding night Junior Bull Riding competition. Photo by Jim Bardwell competition. Photo by Jim Bardwell

Registration for Lee Library’s Summer Reading Club is under way for area children 12 years old and under. The theme for this year’s 2016 Texas Reading Club is “On Your Mark, Get Set…Read!” The reading contest and kickoff begins Wednesday, June 15 at 11 a.m. and runs through Wednesday, July 13. The goal of Lee Public Library is to help keep children’s reading skills sharp during the summer months and help them to retain what they have learned during the regular school year. The readers earn incentives as they reach their reading goals. Special fun and exciting programs are planned during each week of the Summer Reading Club. Abundant Laughter Puppet Show featuring Black Light Puppetry, James Wand Secret Agent Magic Show, Texas Parks & Wildlife Critter Scene Investigation, Emergency Services Vehicles & Workers, Make & Take Crafts Day, Movie Days, Story Times & More are just a few of the exciting programs planned. Calendars for June and July events and times are available. With the support of Friends of the Library, area businesses, organizations and individuals, the library is able to offer this program free to the public. For more information call the library at 903-845-2640. Register today and join in for a fun-filled summer. “On your Mark, Get Set…Read!”

HOUSE FOR RENT 10812 Union Grove Rd 3/1 - 1 car garage Recently updated $875/mth, $800 deposit 903-918-4942

We are hiring!

MULTI FAMILY GARAGE SALE 2003 Ashley (Warren City) Friday & Saturday 8 - ??? baby clothes, electronics & much more

Contact: Jobs@Able.com 903-759-4299

YARD SELL

338 Texas St (near Clarksville City Vol Fire Dept) Friday and Saturday June 17-18 8:30 a.m. – ??? Gas range, small appliances, clothes-ladies size L, household/ christmas items

ESTATE SALE

FRIDAY / SATURDAY JUNE 17-18 9am-5pm 2304 Harold (Off Gay Ave) Near Lake Everything must go! dinnerware, crystal, household, furniture, antiques, collectibles, 2 box freezers, toolbox, garage/building supplies, clothes, more!

WE BUY OIL, GAS & MINERAL RIGHTS Both non-producing and producing, including

Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI)

Please provide us your desired price when you contact us and we will evaluate for a possible offer.

Lobo Minerals, LLC

P.O. Box 10906 • Midland, TX 79702 C: 806-620-1422 lobomineralsllc@gmail.com

LOOKING TO BUY

LIFT FOR PRIDE GO-GO SCOOTER

903-844-8465

PUBLIC & REAL ESTATE

AUCTION OWNERS: CLIFTON HILL

Tues., June 21, 2016 | STARTS @ 8:43 A.M. Location: 13700 Hwy 177 | Shawnee, OK

CLASSIC CARS, BOAT, CAR PARTS, ROCK MOLDS, ANTIQUES, COLLECTIBLES & MISC. Running 2-3 Auction Rings!

Directions: From Int 40 take Exit 181 (Hwy 177) go South approx 1 ½ mi, auction on right. Auctioneer’s Note: Clifton has been collecting cars & parts for over 50 years! He has decided to close his museum, liquidate and offer his property at auction. Don’t miss this auction, lots of neat collectibles, cars & car parts, something for everyone! This is a HUGE AUCTION we will be running 2-3 auction rings all day, so bring a friend. Loader available day of auction. Motels available in Shawnee, OK. For more info and pictures: www. chuppsauction.com. TERMS: NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS. ANY ANNOUNCEMENTS DAY OF SALE SUPERSEDES PREVIOUS ADVERTISING.

For full item list, more info & pictures visit www.ChuppsAuction.com CHUPPS AUCTION CO.

Stan Chupp | (918) 638-1157 Dale Chupp, Realtor | Century 21, NEOKLA (918) 630-0495 E. J. Chupp | (918) 639-8555

HELP BEAUTIFY GLADEWATER! Adopt-a-Spot

The newly formed Gladewater Beautification Board would like to partner with community organizations, churches, youth groups, businesses, scout troops, civic groups, Sunday School classes, school groups, families and individuals to help Keep Gladewater Beautiful by adopting an area of their choice to keep free of litter and perhaps enhance to help promote hometown pride and the attractiveness of our area to visitors. If you or your group would like to help make our corner of the world cleaner and more appealing to citizens and visitors please send your contact information to Todd Clifton at: tclifton@austinbank.com or Suzanne Bardwell at 903-845-2235 or sbardwell@gladewatermirror.com Let’s make a difference together!

Gladewater Beautification Board Members: Farrell Alexander Todd Clifton Wanda Allard Tracy McKnight Suzanne Bardwell Matt Ruesing Terrie Hammer

Page 10, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, June 15, 2016

CAN YOU HELP?

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated...” -Mahatma Gandhi-

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED!

These dogs are in immediate need of ADOPTION, RESCUE or FOSTER. If you can help, please contact the HSNETX in Longview (903) 297-2170 or email relocation@hsntx.org.

The Gladewater Museum’s 1950s era firetruck exhibit at East Broadway and Pacific Streets was hit by vandals this weekend. The repairs will be costly. Citizen tax dollars were put to work Monday by a city grew removing graffiti from the building in front of the water tower at East Allison and Center Streets. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

No one hurt in plane crash 31855922 Border Collie / Mix Age: 8 years 6 months Gender: Female Color: White / Black Spayed/Neutered: Yes

31874549 Retriever, Labrador / Mix Gender: Male Color: Yellow Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Large Size : Medium

The meticulously landscaped home of Torin and Tammy Gibbons at 801 Briar Cove is the Yard of the Month. The multi-level shrubs, decorative pots with seasonal flowers and manicured lawn are impressive in design with decided curb appeal.

31882184 Terrier, Fox, Wire / Mix Age: 8 months Gender: Female Color: White / Black Spayed/Neutered: No

31882824 Retriever, Golden / Mix Gender: Female Color: Yellow Spayed/Neutered: No Size: Large

Yard of the Month Sponored by

Sponsored by

We are hiring! Contact Jobs@Able 903-759-4299

Caring.

Superior Soils & Fertilizers

By Phillip Williams GILMER--Two persons escaped injury Friday night when their airplane clipped a power line and crashed near Fox Stephens Field, said Gilmer Fire Chief Jerry Taylor. The PA-28 Piper fourseater’s wheels clipped the high line when the airplane came in too low toward the runway, a source said. Neither Taylor nor the pilot knew the occupants’ names. The Gilmer Police Department said the Texas Department of Public Safety investigates all airplane crashes. Neither the DPS office in Tyler nor the department’s office in Gilmer had any details on the incident as of this newspaper’s deadline Monday. Although at least one ambulance responded to the incident, Taylor said neither person was taken to a hospital. The crash was the second near the Gilmer airport this year. A Gladewater man was killed in the earlier accident.

Nature.

Caring is much more than a word that describes our nature. At UT Health Northeast, it’s what we dedicate ourselves to do for our patients day in and day out. And as such, much of our work revolves around patients with cancer. We’ve brought together recent breakthroughs in cancer technology with groundbreaking techniques in personalized cancer care and prevention. Backed with The University of Texas System’s resources, we’re the only university medical center in the region, and the only hospital situated on 600 acres of healing Northeast Texas woods. If you or someone you love is looking for hope, call 1.855.506.HOPE. Healing just feels better here.

uthealth.org Varian Tours of Excellence Reference Site

UTH_CaringNature_11.5x10.5_GlimerMirror.indd 1

7/2/15 11:21 AM

FREE DOWNLOAD

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 28

50¢

1 Section, 10 pages

RECYCLE ...

City flushing lines more after latest TCEQ report

7/11/16, 8:32 AM Gladewater’s drinking water exceeds maximum levels for contaminants caused by the chlorine treatment process, according to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The TCEQ said the maximum level allowed for haloacetic acids is 0.060 milligrams per liter, while Gladewater’s water supplies tested at 0.062 and 0.066 milligrams per liter at two Jim, sites. The two samples are taken from: Site 1 is at Briarwood Here isSite the Chart and 2 isyouatrequested: the Vet Clinic on US 80.

Quarter Quarter 2 2016 Quarter 1 2016 Quarter 4 2015 Quarter 3 2015 Average

Gladewater’s recycling efforts - which were started under the former city council husband and wife team of Delbert and Judy Burlison - remain strong, as demonstrated last Saturday morning with 133 families bringing recyclable items to the Gladewater City Hall drop-off point, where volunteers helped unload the unwanted items. According to Clayton Burroughs, Gladewater recycling coordinator, in January 123 families participated, with 119 in February and 143 in March. He said 129 families dropped off items in

April, 132 in May and then 96 in June. Each month a different civic group volunteers to man the monthly drop-off, which is always on the second Saturday of each month. This month Red Rock volunteered. In August, the Weldon Alumni will be on hand to help, followed in September by the North Loop Church. The Gladewater Lions Club will handle the recycling dropoff in October, followed by the Gladewater Former Students Association in November and the Gladewater Round-Up Rodeo Association in December.

Site 1 55.9 44.9 72.2 90.2 65.8 (66)

Site 2 49.9 43.8 62.2 93.1 62.25 (62)

Haloacetic acids are formed when chlorine, which is used as a disinfectant, reacts with organic matter in the water. “The notice involving haloacetic acids is new,” Gladewater City Manager Theo Melancon said. “The limits are set on a 12 Theo Melancon month average. As such, our high levels from the latter half of City Manager last year still count against our average. For the last 6 months, (903) 845-2196 (Ofﬁce) our have been below the state limits. (903) levels 845-6891 (Fax) Gladewater has started a more aggressive approach to flushing water lines in response to the report. The TCEQ said some people who drink water with elevated level of these contaminants over a number of years have an increased risk of cancer. However, the agency said residents do not need to use an alternative water supply.

Pothole of the Week

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This series of potholes is on George Richey Road right off of Shell Camp in the 1000 Block. Beware the 1-2-3 action.. Good News - the pothole on Sabine Street has been fixed. Thank you to the city workers. Send your favorite pothole to pothole@ gladewatermirror.com

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Union Grove Rocket Scientist - Aero-Space Team climb the highest dune at White Sands National Park and triumphantly reach the summit for this group photo.

Union Grove rocketeers make history The Union Grove ISD Aero-Space Team made history at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico on June 28 when they successfully launched their all aluminum, 20’ rocket from a launch pad at that facility. The rocket, designed and built by Union Grove students and approved for launch by NASA engineers, was their third attempt and first successful launch. Lion III was designed to reach 100, 000 feet and travel at Mach 2.7 with a loaded total weight of 570 lbs. The data gathered from the Lion III launch at the military installation will be released at some point during the coming months and the UG Aero-Space Team will be able to debrief and examine their flight information at that time. The Union Grove team was able to recover much of the

rocket including the nose-cone and data sensors, along with the main body and tail section. Union Grove’s Aero-Space Team is part of the statewide Systems-Go program that incorporates STEM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) into their CTE program. Union Grove is one of only eight schools in the nation qualified and sanctioned by NASA to launch a rocket at this level. Team members include Allison Wilson, Lauren Gibson, Ale Mayhan, Mack Allen, Austin Owens, Coleson Klein, Dacie Dyess, Lainey Harvey, Kyra Winn, Caitlyn Fisher, Cole Evans, Hayden Gray, Riley Scott, Cameron Cox, April Bass, Hanna Chambliss and Joni Pope. The group is taught and coached by science teacher Greg Park.

Local sales tax revenues dip after 3-months in black From Staff Reports Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced he will send cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts $624 million in local sales tax allocations for July, 2.3 percent more than in July 2015. These allocations are based on sales made in May by businesses that report tax monthly. “The cities of Dallas, San Antonio, Austin and Fort Worth saw noticeable increases in sales tax allocations,” Hegar said. “Energy-centric cities such as Houston and Midland continue to see decreases in sales tax allocations.” However, after posting positive numbers for three months in a row - Gladewater’s local sales tax revenue slipped into the red, posting a -5.64-percent decline for the reporting period ($73,919.75 in 2016 compared to $78,342.95 in 2015). For the year, Gladewater stands at a -1.73-percent, $575,144.54 in 2016 payments to date compared to 2015 payments to date of $585,273.59.

County City

Current Net Payment Comparable Rate This Period Payment Prior Year

% Change

2016 Payments To date

Gregg Clarksville City 1.000% 2,322.51 2,624.78 -11.51% 21,890.09 Easton 1.000% 460.32 114.91 300.59% 5,760.26 Gladewater 1.500% 73,919.75 78,342.95 -5.64% 575,144.54 Kilgore 1.500% 459,976.97 569,325.53 -19.20% 4,551,951.00 Lakeport 1.500% 12,537.78 14,585.99 -14.04% 90,695.81 Longview 1.500% 2,169,986.78 2,263,125.91 -4.11% 17,041,143.17 Warren City 1.000% 431.08 815.54 -47.14% 3,517.12 White Oak 1.500% 60,316.18 64,280.46 -6.16% 481,985.50 County Total 2,779,951.37 2,993,216.07 -7.12% 22,772,087.49 Upshur Big Sandy 1.500% 14,553.76 16,489.71 -11.74% 143,373.05 East Mountain 1.000% 1,708.20 1,592.12 7.29% 13,496.31 Gilmer 1.500% 130,029.44 114,581.63 13.48% 952,575.16 Ore City 1.500% 14,840.83 10,480.90 41.59% 103,062.95 Union Grove 1.000% 0.00 185.51 -100.00% 1,320.05 County Total 161,132.23 143,329.87 12.42% 1,213,827.52

2015 Payments To date 27,043.12 2,666.46 585,273.59 5,390,756.88 99,517.39 18,255,896.39 4,805.29 591,746.79 24,957,705.91 138,090.66 12,643.43 874,108.70 86,460.57 1,581.66 1,112,885.02

% Change -19.05% 116.02% -1.73% -15.56% -8.86% -6.65% -26.80% -18.54% -8.75% 3.82% 6.74% 8.97% 19.20% -16.54% 9.07%

Page 10, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, July 13, 2016

KC Rangerette tryouts Thursday, new freshmen announced Friday

GADA Ice Cream Social Thursday July 14 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Participating downtown businesses. Sample & vote for your favorite homemade ice cream

CAN YOU HELP?

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated...” -Mahatma Gandhi-

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED!

Thanks to many helping volunteer hands and grants from Lowe’s and Keep Texas Beautiful the native planting project at the Gladewater Museum’s exhibit is complete. Next on tap is an exhibit sign, stepping stones and benches for adults who bring their kiddies to play on the firetruck. Citizens are encouraged to help keep the site clean. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

These dogs are in immediate need of ADOPTION, RESCUE or FOSTER. If you can help, please contact the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center located at 303 HG Mosley in Longview or call 903-297-PETS.

Minnie ID#: A32051614 German Shep Gender: F, Age: 2 Available Immediately Very sweet, will require a fenced in yard

Bean ID#: A32051553 Shepherd-x Gender: M Age: 2-3 Available Immediately Large Size

The Yard of the Month is the lovingly landscaped home of Judith and Raymond Hyden at 136 Lee Street. A mix of trees, shrubbery and seasonal flowers enhanced by discrete statuary and multilevel bedding creates a very attractive front yard.

Phoenix ID#: A32053247 Pit Bull Terrier-x Gender: M Age: 9 months Available: Now

Gabby ID# 32051463 Min Pin-x Gender: F Young Adult, 1.5 yr old 11 lb Available: Now

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The Kilgore College Rangerettes will announce new freshman members on Friday, July 15, after this week’s pre-training rehearsals. Pre-training rehearsals will take place Monday through Wednesday, July 11-13, in the Deana Bolton-Covin Rangerette Gymnasium on the Kilgore campus. The new Rangerettes will be chosen by outside judges, director Dana Blair and assistant director Shelley Wayne. “Girls trying out will learn various routines during this week such as kick, jazz and studio combinations,” Wayne said. Tryouts will be 8 a.m. Thursday, July 14, where the girls will try out in groups of four. New freshmen will be announced at a closed meeting 10 a.m. Friday, July 15, in Dodson Auditorium. Pre-training rehearsals Monday through Wednesday are open to the public but the tryouts on Thursday and the announcement of the new freshmen on Friday are closed to the public. The Rangerettes were the first of their kind when they began in 1940 as a vision of the late Gussie Nell Davis. The organization created a unique combination of dance moves and precision drills that quickly earned them the reputation not only as the originators of dance/drill teams, but as the best in the world. Known for their high kicks and the jump splits, the organization has traveled around the world, entertained millions and spurred a multibillion-dollar dance/drill team industry worldwide.

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Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 29

1 Section, 10 pages

Gladewater Fire Chief Wayne “Snuffy” Smith talks to Ashmir Mattu, owner of Robert’s Grocery which caught fire the night of July 14. The store, which has been a mainstay in the city for decades, appears to be a total loss with the roof collapsed and the contents charred. The store is located in the 1600 block of N. US 271. The cause of the fire has not been determined. News of the fire prompted dozens of people to comment on social media with people sharing their memories of the landmark grocery which started out as Durham’s Grocery and was later named McGees, before eventually being named Robert’s Grocery. Read the comments at: https://www.facebook.com/ GladewaterMirror. Photo by Jim Bardwell

Pothole of the Week

50¢

City, GEDCO to hold special joint meeting

By Jim Bardwell The Gladewater City Council and Gladewater Economic Development Corporation will be meeting today, Wednesday, July 20, at 4 p.m. in a special joint session to discuss the new $2M ballpark complex. The two taxing entities will meet with representatives of Heartland Parks and Recreation to discuss the status of the project - which has slipped behind schedule due to extensive weather problems in the spring. Officials broke ground for the complex on April 25, 2015 and had hoped to be playing ball by this summer. The meeting will be held at the Gladewater Chamber of Commerce, located at 215 N. Main Street. The meeting also calls for consideration of economic development incentives related to a project at the recently opened Gladewater lake store.

City expected to finally vote on CO ordinance By Jim Bardwell It has been almost 30 days since the Gladewater City Council last debated on how to handle a proposed “certificate of occupancy” ordinance. Thursday night the council is expected to finally vote for the ordinance, which is designed to “promote safe and healthy living conditions for tenants, protect neighbors from hazards, and promotes community cleanliness” by requiring all residential rental property to be inspected prior to any move-in. The issue has resulted in several public hearings and much discussion and even some finger pointing with landlords calling

the action unnecessary and an undue burden on them. The city took on the challenge in an effort to rid the city of a serious sub-standard housing problem, which has been illustrated through photos of dilapidated homes presented in several power point presentations. A draft of the ordinance can be viewed at: http://www.cityofgladewater.com/wp-content/ uploads/2016/06/Residential_CO_June_13_2016.pdf. In other business Thursday night, the city is expected to honor 19-year-old William Colbert, who saved seven-year old Serenity Johnson, who had chased her float about five feet Continued on Page 3

Cool sweets beat Texas heat

This week’s pothole is located in front of the Gladewater Former Students’ Building in the 2500 block of Hendricks Street. Send your favorite pothole to: pothole@gladewatermirror.com and we’ll pass it along to the city, county and state.

Habitual offender given 25-year prison sentence

By Phillip Williams/Correspondent GILMER--115th District Judge Lauren Parish sentenced 25 persons on felony charges and six for misdemeanor crimes between July 8 and 12, said Upshur County District Attorney Billy Byrd’s office. Details of the felony sentencings were as follows, and all defendants pleaded guilty unless otherwise indicated, Byrd’s office said: Roy Edward Thompson, 44, of Gladewater, received 25 years in prison as a habitual offender July 11 for possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver--one gram or more but less than four grams of methamphetamine. The Upshur County Sheriff’s Office investigated the July 27, 2015 offense. Byrd represented the state at sentencing; Gilmer attorney Dwight Brannon represented Thompson. Casey Andrew Clark, 37, of Big Sandy, drew concurrent terms of incarceration on two drug charges July 12. He received three years in prison for possession of a controlled substance--one gram or more but less than four grams of methamphetamine--and six months in state jail for possession of a controlled substance--less than one gram of methamphetamine. Continued on Page 10

Shoppers got to beat the Texas heat last week as they visited select shops and enjoyed samples of “Old Fashion Homemade Ice Cream” during the 4th Annual Gladewater Antique District Association Ice Cream Social. The Peoples’ Choice and Judges’ Choice for the best homemade ice cream will be announced at t Thursday’s GADA meeting. Businesses particitaing in the annual event were: Round Up Antique Mall with peach ice cream, Hillie’s Artwork with salted caramel pretzel ice cream, Antiques II with strawberry ice cream, Bits “N” Pieces with blueberry ice cream, Sugar Shack with butterfinger ice cream, R & S Clocks and More with pineapple sherbet, Gladewater Antique Mall with pineapple ice cream, and The Screen Door with coffee with chocolate covered coffee beans ice cream.

Roy Dunnavant at R&S Clocks and More’s pineapple sherbet was such a pleaser customers were finding larger containers for the next serving. Photos by Suzanne Bardwell

Lola May at The Screen Door created an original recipe of coffee ice cream with chocolate covered coffee beans for last Thursday’s Gladewater Antique District Association Ice Cream Social.

A bevy of glamorous sisters were enjoying the ice cream social at the Gladewater Antique Mall. Jill Two year old Jaden Bohanon decided to take the Scurlock and her sisters Jane Hollingsworth and Julie Santa Fe Express for a spin during Thursday’s GADA Nicholson definitely enjoyed the event and each other. downtown ice cream social.

Page 10, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, July 20, 2016

An eyesore no more ...

This home at the corner of Rodeo and Hendricks streets is an example of turning an eyesore into a neat and well-kept home improving the neighborhood and contributing to a positive impression by visitors to the Rodeo Arena, Former Students’ Building and Gladewater High School. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

These two headstones were recently discovered discarded on city property off Pacific Street. At first it was thought this might be an abandoned graveyard, but on further investigation it appears the headstones were stolen and dumped at the back of this field in heavy brush. The names on the headstones are Odell W. Warren and Tulos E. Will. Please call the Gladewater Mirror if you have information that can help us get them back to the proper families. Photo by Jim Bardwell

The old church at Roden and Miller Streets is growing closer to removal. The formerly dangerous structure near Weldon Elementary School was a focus of Code Enforcement Officer Al Harrison for cleanup to improve the neighborhood as well as ensure safety. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

CAN YOU HELP?

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated...” -Mahatma Gandhi-

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED!

These dogs are in immediate need of ADOPTION, RESCUE or FOSTER. If you can help, please contact the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center located at 303 HG Mosley in Longview or call 903-297-PETS.

Cricket ID#: A32138278 German Shep/Pyr-x Gender: F Age: 1 Weight: 59 lbs

Rae ID#: A32051554 Pointer-x Gender: F Age: 8-9 months Weight: 41 lbs

Sadie ID#: A32114102 Lab-x Gender: F Age: 4 Weight: 56 lbs

Diamond ID#: A32084863 Terrier/Boxer-x Gender: F Age: 5 months Weight: 23 lbs

With temperatures expected in the triple digits on Monday the Growden family of Gladewater took to the lake for a day of fun and family memories.

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A capacity crowd of children, parents and grandparents were thoroughly entertained by the very British and funny James Wand at Lee Library’s Summer Reading Program special event. In addition to special events such as this Lee Library hosts a weekly story time on Thursdays at 11 a.m. with special activities following. All children are invited to attend. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

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Five-year old Remington Lang of Gladewater assists Lee Library Summer Reading Program Spy Magic’s James Wand of England in magic tricks that touted the joy of reading at the annual special event for area children. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

LOOK INSIDE

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 30

50¢

1 Section, 10 pages

Eyesore finally coming down; new Pothole of the Week ballpark needs $80K for parking lot By Jim Bardwell It’s a small step in the right direction - the demolition of a dilapidated house on W. Gay Avenue - but at least its a step forward. The Gladewater City Council voted to demolish the house located at 221 W. Gay Avenue after the city said the owner did not respond to letters addressing the problem. According to the Gregg County Appraisal District’s online information the home is owned by Eula Lavaugh Ray and has an appraised value of $10,410. The city estimates the cost of tearing down the home at around $5,000. A lien will be placed against the property in an attempt to recoup the taxpayer expense should the property ever sell. This is just one on a long list of neglected houses in Gladewater needing to be either rehabbed or demolished. Some of the homes - near schools and along the walking path students take to get home - are burned out, while others have roofs with holes in them and windows boarded up. In another housing issue, the council finally voted to approve a “certificate of occupancy” ordinance, which the council had batted around for several months after meeting up with stiff vocal opposition from landlords. The ordinance is designed to “promote safe

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FI This eyesore at 221 W. Gay Avenue will soon be demolished after the Gladewater City Council voted to tear down the dilapidated home since the owner failed to keep it up. Photo by Jim Bardwell and healthy living conditions for tenants, protect neighbors from hazards, and promote community cleanliness” by requiring all residential rental property to be inspected prior to any move-in. A few landlords opposed the ordinance saying it would cost them too much to bring their houses up to code and that cost would be passed on to renters, who can’t afford it. The city maintained the homes were part of the landlords’ businesses and this ordinance was needed to rid the city of a serious substandard housing problem. A violation of the ordinance, which begins Oct. 1, would be

a Class C misdemeanor, with a max fine of $500. Councilman Dennis Robertson, who asked that the issue be delayed another 30 days so the council and landlords could sit down and work out a compromise, was the lone dissenting voter. In other business, Steve Altmiller, CEO of Good Shepherd gave the council an overview of the proposed affiliation with Duke Lifepoint. Last month, Good Shepherd Health System announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding to pursue an acquisition by Duke LifePoint. As part of the proposed acquisition, Duke LifePoint

has agreed to continue important community commitments such as the GSMC clinic in Gladewater and Altmiller said he wanted to city of Gladewater to know GSMC planned to remain a part of the community. He said the “last three years have been a struggle for us,” financially, but the new partnership with Duke LifePoint Healthcare System will allow GSMC to grow. Plus since they will be moving from a non-profit medical facility to a for-profit, GSMC “will be paying taxes” and that will help cities like Gladewater. In other business, the Continued on Page 6

Gladewater received a twofer last week when the TxDOT crews repaired two bad sections of U.S. 271, just north of U.S. 80. The two areas had been patched previously, but that didn’t hold due to the heavy traffic flow. Send your favorite pothole to pothole@gladewatermirror.com

D E X

Local men indicted by Upshur grand jury

to uproot my family,” said Lewis “Coach Lane and I have been friends since he was Gladewater. He called me one morning at 7:00 am and said, ‘Hey, Jermaine, I need your help.’ I thought he needed me to come help him move some furniture or something. He said, ‘No, I’m the new head football coach at Pine Tree. I need you come help me coach these kids.” After conversations with his wife, as well as discussing it with Gladewater’s AD/head football coach (John) Berry, whom he greatly respects. He eventually decided to make the move and has already been working with Pirate players in their off season program. Coach Berry is experiencing what happens when your program is successful, your staff gets opportunities at other schools. Berry is losing five coaches from his 2015 staff. Along with Lewis, the Bears football staff has lost Jonny Louiver, J. J. Barry, Weston Griffis and Jayme Bradley. Former offensive coordinator Jonny Louvier is now the head football coach of the Frankston Indians and J. J. Barry will be the defensive coordinator for the West Rusk Raiders. Jayme Bradley has been assigned as an assistant basketball coach. Currently, the 2016 Bears’ coaching staff is made up of

By Phillip Williams/Correspondent GILMER-The Upshur County Grand Jury returned 27 indictments, eight of them sealed, last Thursday, said District Attorney Billy Byrd. Jurors also passed two cases and no-billed another case, he reported. Of the indictments, seven were for driving while intoxicated--subsequent offense, Byrd’s office said. Defendants, charges, dates of the alleged offenses, and bond information in the open indictments were as follows, the office said: Joshua Keith Capps, 29, of Gladewater, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on April 3, $10,000 bond Robert Aloysius Hallette, 58, of Gladewater, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on April 30, $10,000 Kelly Madelina Madden, 50, of Gladewater, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on May 2, $10,000 Bobby Gene Brown, 46, of Big Sandy, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on May 24, $30,000 Clifford H. France III, 52, of Hawkins, unlawful possession of firearm by felon on March 17, $25,000 Gilmer resident James Olen Fuller, who turned 54 Monday, aggravated assault with deadly weapon on Aug. 27, 2015, $25,000 Nicole Katherine Bullock, 32, of Gilmer, prohibited substance in correctional facility on May 16. She remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. Arthur Dennis Hill, 51, of Gilmer, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on June 19, $25,000 Shane Williams, a 47-year-old Gilmer man, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on June 30. He remained in county jail under $10,000 bond Mark Tres Motley, 50, of Diana, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on Feb. 12, $25,000 Gregory Aaron Banks, 40, of Jefferson, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on May 18, $10,000 James Jeremy Boriski, 41, of Gilmer, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on May 5, $10,000 Manuel Medina, 19, of Tyler, possession of controlled substance (cocaine) on March 20, $10,000 Don Carlos Griffin, 63, of Gilmer, evading arrest/detention with vehicle on May 22. He remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. Gilmer resident Claiborne Andrew Pannell, who turned 56 Saturday, prohibited substance in correctional facility on April 25, $25,000 Ladarius Johnte Fluellen, 20, of Ore City, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on June 6. He remained in county jail under $10,000 bond.

Continued on Page 3

Continued on Page 10

The parking lot at the new ballpark complex needs paving, but that will cost an additional $80,000. Photo by Jim Bardwell

Lewis headed to Pine Tree hardwood

By Ellis Hayden Gladewater’s head basketball and assistant football coach, Jermaine Lewis has joined the coaching staff at Longview’s Pine Tree High School. He joins a former Gladewater colleague, Kerry Lane who is now the Pine Tree head football coach, to serve as an assistant coach with the Pine Tree football and basketball teams as well as teach physical education classes. “This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make,” said Lewis. Lewis has been with Gladewater since 2008 has coaching basketball and football, as well as assisting with other sports. He became the head coach of the Bears’ basketball team in 2011. The Bears won the District Championship in 2015, their first since 2002. “I really expected to be at Gladewater for a long time. I’ve turned down other opportunities in the past, including one to my former high school, Houston Wheatley. But I didn’t want

The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, July 27, 2016, Page 3

New Texas Drawn Hunt opportunities available First application deadline Aug. 3

AUSTIN – Hunters can start making plans for the upcoming seasons now by applying for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Drawn Hunts. The online system is currently accepting applications and the first hunt category deadline is less than a month away. The first application deadlines are in August. August 3 is the deadline for the alligator hunt categories, and August 11 is the deadline for archery deer, exotic, javelina and the new private lands dove hunts. Other hunt category deadlines occur from August 23 through January 26. A full list of category deadlines can be found online. Hunters can apply up to 11:59 p.m. Central Time on the application deadline, and after the application is submitted, they can check their drawing status online at any time. The Drawn Hunts program offers affordable hunting experiences throughout the state, including several Youth-Only hunt categories. Application fees are $3 or $10 depending on the hunt category. Adult hunters that are selected may also need to pay a Special Permit fee of $80 for regular hunts and $130 for extended hunts. Some categories, such as the Youth-Only hunts, require no application fees or permit fees. For more information or to get started in the application process visit the TPWD drawn hunts web page. For questions, contact hunt@tpwd.texas.gov or call 512-389-4505 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Gladewater Family Dental presented the Gladewater Bear Football Program with Under Armor Mouth Guards for the 2016 Football Season. Dr. Charles Coppock and Office Manager Tori Huff presented the Mouth guards on Friday to AD/Head Coach John Berry, Coach Wesley Johnston, Coach Kevin Clark and Coach J.R. Tatum. Courtesy Photo

Roughnecks make TSWA 3A All-State Baseball Team

BRYAN – West’s Bailey The senior pitcher was 13-3 Horn is the player of the year with a 1.29 earned run average honors on the Texas Sports in leading West to the state title Writers Association’s Class 3A FIRST TEAM Pitchers - Bailey Horn, West, sr.; Will Jones, Van All-State Baseball Team. Alstyne, sr.; Grayson Rodriguez, Nacogdoches

TSWA 2A All-State Baseball Team announced Union Grove’s Gray and Klein make honorable mention list

BRYAN – Beckville’s Ethan Harris and Flatonia’s Casen Novak shared player of the year honors on the Collin Street Bakery/Texas Sports Writers Association’s Class 2AAll-State Baseball Team. Harris, a sophomore, was 14-0 on the mound, with an 0.99 earned run average for state runner-up Beckville. Harris, who played outfield when not pitching, batted .457 with 46 runs batted in. Novak batted .485 with 30 RBIs and 26 stolen bases as the senior shortstop led Flatonia to the state title.

Utility infielder - Jacob Flores, Riviera Kaufer, sr. Utility outfielder - Brody Gail, Weimar, jr. Player of the year – (tie) Ethan Harris, Beckville, soph.; Casen Novak, Flatonia, sr. Coach of the year – Shawn Bruns, Flatonia

FIRST TEAM Pitchers - Ethan Harris, Beckville, soph.; Garrett Martin, Lindsay, sr.; Nick Flores, Flatonia, sr. Reliever - Easton Migl, Flatonia, jr. Catcher - Tyler Melton, Chico, sr. First baseman - Tanner Sembrera, Weimar, jr. Second baseman - Zach Collins, Beckville, jr. Shortstop – (tie) Casen Novak, Flatonia, sr.; D’Mond LaFond, Refugio, jr. Third baseman - John Mike Bounds, Beckville, sr. Outfielders - Ethan Cherry, Dallardsville Big Sandy, sr.; Braden Wise, Beckville, sr.; Cody Krueger, Miles, sr. Designated hitter - Zack Mazza, Bosqueville, sr.

HONORABLE MENTION Pitchers - Stacey Bailey, Kerens, soph.; Ty Boedeker, Shiner, jr.; Ty Condel, Shiner, sr.; Will Davis, Harleton, jr.; Jase Embry, Riesel, sr.; Lane Hardy, Dodd City, sr.; Dallardsville Austin Hendrix, Big Sandy, jr.; Ethan Hightower, Meridian, sr.; D’Mond LaFond, Refugio, jr.; Justin Lambright, Trenton, fr.; Jason Mallory, Rosebud-Lott, sr.; Zack Mazza, Bosqueville, sr.; Drew Neece, Albany, sr.; Andrew Saenz, Corpus Christi London, soph.; Jevon Santos, Charlotte, fr.; Lance Smith, Tolar, sr.; Michael Turman, Thorndale, sr.; Aaron Walters, Center Point, jr.; Braden Wise, Beckville, sr.; Cole Van Ness, Refugio, sr.

SECOND TEAM Pitchers - Ligon West, Stamford, sr.; Brady Tackett, Windthorst, jr.; (tie) Jake McDonald, Maud, sr.; Aaron Rodriguez, Abernathy, sr. Reliever - Kalen Johnson, Chico, sr. Catcher – (tie) Austin Hendrix, Dallardsville Big Sandy, jr.; Aaron Walters, Center Point, jr. First baseman - Trey Ellis, Cushing, sr. Second baseman – (tie) Kaddin Mikulik, Flatonia, jr.; Seth Spinn, Holland, sr. Shortstop - Layton Vonberg, Big Sandy, sr. Third baseman - Caleb Cobb, Clarendon, sr. Outfielders - Jaston McBee, Chico, sr.; Yancey Otto, Lindsay, jr.; Bandy Mataska, Petrolia, sr. Designated hitter - Drew Neece Albany, sr. Utility infielder - Randal Garza, Agua Dulce, fr. Utility outfielder - Ty Boedeker, Shiner, jr.

AtoZ

Relief pitchers - Nelson Bermudez, McCamey, soph.; RJ Garcia, Agua Dulce, fr.; Landon Odom, Gary, soph.; Tanner Sembrera, Weimar, jr. Catchers - Nelson Bermudez, McCamey, soph.; Brandon Cerny, Shiner, jr.; Joey Garza, Charlotte, sr.; Hayden Gray, Union Grove, sr.; Calvin Seago, Hawley, sr.; Jacob Seggern, Thrall, sr.; Kacey Waxler, Cumby, sr. First basemen - Kalin Bracken, Morton, sr.;Shane Burns, Axtell, sr. Second basemen - Scott Guzman, Thorndale, fr.; Kalen Johnson, Chico, sr.; Zane Navarro, Carlisle, sr.; Kason Orr, Bosqueville, sr.; Hunter Pope, Abbott, soph.; Logan Schulte, Nazareth, sr.; Clay Stevens, Muenster, soph. Shortstops - Ashton Albert, Thorndale, soph.; Gabe Castillo, Riviera Kaufer, soph.; Tanner Clark, Crosbyton, sr.; Josh Cobb, Clarendon, soph.; Ty Condel, Shiner, sr.; Jordan Fulmer, Bosqueville, sr.; RJ Garcia, Agua Dulce, fr.; Blayne Jones, Muenster, jr.; Andrew Saenz, Corpus Christi London, soph.; Jevon Santos, Charlotte, fr.; Adam Soliz, Morton, sr.; Cade Brown, Tolar, jr.; Cameron Weatherly, Chico, jr.; Raphael Urushimoto, Olney, sr. Third basemen - Blaine Besetzny, Flatonia, sr.; Dylan Bohnert, Anderson-Shiro, sr.; Will Carpenter, Bosqueville, sr.; Braden East, Forsan, sr.; Ben Griffin, Dallardsville Big Sandy, sr.; Aaron Rodriguez, Abernathy, sr. Outfielders - Ted Fuller, Harleton, jr.;Ethan Harris, Beckville, soph.; Holden Horton, Dodd City, sr.; Coleson Klein, Union Grove, sr.; Will Koberick, Tioga, jr.; J.T. Lilley, Big Sandy, sr.; Korbin Martinez, Borden County, sr.; Brandon Northcutt, Tolar, sr.; Bo Pearson, Crawford, sr.; Tyler Richter, Thorndale, sr.; Ligon West, Stamford, sr.; Demonderick Winters, Burton, fr.; Logan Veitenheimer, Windthorst, sr. Designated hitters - Brent Mynar, Abbott, jr.; Brady North, Chico, sr.

from our FAMILY MEDICINE DOCTORS

SNORING CAN BE A SIGN OF A SERIOUS MEDICAL CONDITION

Snoring and the sounds people make while doing them have been the source of jokes for ages. But snoring isn’t a joke – it can mean you have obstructive sleep apnea, a serious condition caused by complete or partial blockage of your upper airway. Because of the blockage, you can’t breathe smoothly, and you snore. You also wake up many times during the night to open up your airway muscles and get adequate oxygen. While many people don’t realize they snore, their sleeping partners are all too aware of it. That’s why it’s important to ask your bed partner if you snore. Here’s what you need to know about obstructive sleep apnea: Symptoms: Because you’re not getting enough oxygen for your body and are frequently waking up, your sleep isn’t restful. That means you can suffer from daytime sleepiness or fatigue, headaches and dry mouth or sore throat in the morning, trouble concentrating, or memory impairment. Risks: If you’re overweight or obese, you smoke, have diabetes, are male, are an older adult, or have an abnormal airway; you have a higher risk for developing sleep apnea.

Complications: If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack, and abnormal heart rhythms. Diagnosis: Diagnosis is made based on your symptoms and a sleep study, called a polysomnography. You may have to go to a sleep lab, where monitors will measure your blood oxygen levels, breathing pattern, heart rate, and other vital signs while you’re sleeping. Treatment: Losing weight (if needed), avoiding alcohol and sleeping pills, and sleeping on your side can lessen sleep apnea and improve your sleep. In addition, your doctor can prescribe a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The CPAP machine includes a mask that is worn during sleep. It provides enough air pressure to keep your airway open so that you get adequate oxygen when sleeping. This column is published bi-monthly in the Gladewater Mirror. You can submit a medical question for consideration in future articles by mailing your question to: A to Z from Our Family Medicine Doctors, UT Health Northeast, ATTN: Office of Public Affairs, 11937 U.S. Highway 271, Tyler, TX 75708.

Ngoc Dieu, D.O. UT Health Northeast’s Family Medicine Residency Program

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

(903) 877-7000

Healing Just Feels Better Here. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and most commercial insurance.

Healing Just Feels Better Here.

2808 South Main Street, Suite T & V, Lindale uthealth.org/lindale

Central Heights, soph. Reliever - Isaac Gallego, Alpine, jr. Catcher - Tyler Bradshaw, Jim Ned, sr. First baseman - Preston Macik, West, sr. Second baseman - Cade Johnson, Jim Ned, sr. Shortstop – Griffin Paxton, West, sr. Third baseman – (tie) Ryan Kotulek, Shallowater, sr.; Collin Isbell, Idalou, sr. Outfielders - Dryden Virden, Wall, soph.; Tristan Gonzalez, West, sr.; JD Townsend, Shallowater, sr. Designated hitter - Logan Breton, Grandview, sr. Utility infielder - Anthony Gomez, Banquete, sr. Utility outfielder - Tyler Rosser, Grandview, sr. Player of the year – Bailey Horn, West, sr. Coach of the year – Cory Beckham, West SECOND TEAM Pitchers - Tanner Riley, Clyde, jr.; Aaron Cardona, Bishop, sr.; (tie) Bryce Curtius, Van Alstyne, sr.; Dallin Woods, Friona, sr. Reliever - Erik Owen, White Oak, sr. Catcher - AD Pena, Banquete, sr. First baseman - Trey Jones, Van Alstyne, sr. Second baseman – (tie) Layton Gully, Wall, sr. Bryson Calaway, Littlefield, sr. Shortstop – Garrett Frazier, Jim Ned, jr. Third baseman -Jake Mijares, Banquete, sr. Outfielders - Travis Allbritton, Brock, sr.; John Park, Clyde, jr.; (tie) Garrett Sanford, Wall, jr.; Jonathon Medina, Banquete, jr. Designated hitter - Ryan Gully, Wall, fr. Utility infielder - Connor Smith, Shallowater, sr. Utility outfielder - Bryce Pauler, Buffalo, sr. HONORABLE MENTION Pitchers - Dylan Blackwell, Danbury, sr.; Seth Boleman, Brock, sr.; Jacob Burton, New Diana, soph.; Alex DeLeon, Lago Vista, jr.; Will Doty, Jim Ned, jr.; Michael Everett, Odem, jr.; Blake Frye, Amarillo River Road, sr.; Anthony Gomez, Banquete, sr.; Jackson Gore, Kirbyville, sr.; Chase Hacker, Farmersville, jr.; Nathan Hawkins, Sunnyvale, sr.; Chris Henderson, White Oak, sr.; Nick Hoelscher, Harmony, soph.; Tyler Hollingsworth, Woodville, jr.; Thomas Hurtado, Wall, sr.; Justin Jenkins, Mildred, sr.; Connor

Lowe, Grand Saline, soph.; Preston Macik, West, sr.; Kyle Smith, Boling, sr.; Colton Starns, Hallettsville, jr.; Steven Vejil, Gateway College Prepatory, jr.; Jarred Zumwalt, Luling, sr. Relief pitchers - Nick Alonso, Cameron, sr.; Noe Garza Jr., Bishop, sr.; Bryce Pauler, Buffalo, sr. Catchers - Jon Burge, Van Alstyne, sr.; Noah Coronado, Shallowater, sr.; Collin Docker, Lago Vista, jr.; Trey Erwin, Edgewood, soph.; Kolby Finley, Trinity, sr.; Danta Gomez, Clyde, sr.; Nic Garcia, Falfurrias, sr.; Chase Hacker, Farmersville, jr.; Dalton Horner, Bishop, sr.; Cody Owens, White Oak, sr.; Kamry Weber, Bowie, sr. First baseman - Bruno Castillo, Rice Consolidated, sr.; Kyler Kent, Pottsboro, sr.; Gabe Mendoza, Brock, sr.; Rhett Read, Leon, jr.; Cole Silliman, Elysian Fields, jr.; T.J. Vela, Odem, sr. Second basemen - Kandon Bennett, Henrietta, jr.; Blake Burns, Linden-Kildare, sr.; Colson Coheley, Leonard, sr.; Cash Crane, Leon, jr.;

Michael Everett, Odem, jr. Shortstops - Turner Bannister, Edgewood, soph.; Aaron Bolin, Grand Saline, sr.; Casey Brownlow, Grandview, jr.; Alex DeLeon, Lago Vista, jr.; Noe Garza Jr., Bishop, sr.; Jared Lorenz, McGregor, soph.; Lawson Mickler, Bowie, sr.; Erik Owen, White Oak, sr.; Colton Starns, Hallettsville, jr.; Dallin Woods, Friona, sr. Third basemen -Tye Elie, Edgewood, jr.; Trace Hardee, Bowie, sr.; Chris Henderson, White Oak, sr.; Luke Hundt, Van Alstyne, jr.; Dalton Kolar, West, soph.; Ryan Kotulek, Shallowater, sr.; Hunter Thomas, Franklin, sr. Outfielders - Tyler Brown, Kirbyville, fr.; Aaron Cardona, Bishop, sr.; Bryce Curtius, Van Alstyne, sr.; Quinton Ellis, Breckenridge, sr.; Jackson Gore, Kirbyville, sr.; Derrick Hinojosa, Bishop, sr.; Will Jones, Van Alstyne, sr.; Elijah Trest, White Oak, soph.; Rico Trevino, Bishop, jr.

Lewis headed to Pine Tree hardwood Continued from Page 1 Athletic Director/Head Coach John Berry, defensive coordinator, Barry Lindsey; offensive coordinator, Bobby Chadwick and middle school coordinator/asst. AD Scott Clower. Assistant coaches Curtis Armstrong, Kevin Clark, James Tatum, Jeff Hodges Wesley Johnston, Justin Linnstaedter, Quinton Thomas and Josh Yount will be leading the Bears this season. Gladewater’s new head basketball coach will be Jeffrey Coleman. A veteran coach with 34 years of experience and over 500 wins, Coleman coached at Tyler’s Robert E. Lee in 2013-15 and at Kilgore the previous four years. At Kilgore, he led the Bulldogs to three-straight postseason trips including to a the regional semi-finals in 2013. Prior to that, Coleman spent 20 years at Idabel High School in Idabel, OK, where the Warriors earned a state championship in 2005 as part of numerous long playoff runs.

HELP BEAUTIFY GLADEWATER! Adopt-a-Spot

Gladewater Beautification Board Members: Farrell Alexander Todd Clifton Wanda Allard Tracy McKnight Suzanne Bardwell Matt Ruesing Terrie Hammer

SCRIM

GES Glade water h o sts White 7 :30 p house .m. Au g. 19 Union Grove h Troup osts 7:30 p .m. Au g. 19

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 33

50¢

1 Section, 10 pages

City gets much needed help

Pothole of the Week

Finally, a light at the end of the tunnel

By Jim Bardwell Whatever you want to call it - a loan, a gift, or divine intervention - the City of Gladewater’s luck seems to be turning around thanks to volunteers and outside help. The city faces many financial challenges in 2017 - a leaky roof at the city library that needs repairing, no money to pay for paving the new $2 million ballpark complex, and dozens of unsightly and overgrown lots scattered throughout town that need cleaning up. The city’s library roof has been leaking for several years. Patching has helped, but still buckets have to be set out every time it rains to catch the drips that have ruined books and equipment. The Friends of Lee Library volunteer group have even been raising money through private donations to pay for the costly roof repairs since the city has pushed the repairs from one year to another. And Mayor Harold Wells said at this year’s

Council eyeing tax hike of 4.5 to 6 cents

budget workshop, he favored addressing the issue next year. Well “next year” apparently didn’t sit well with former mayor John Paul Tallent and his wife Beverly - so the couple have offered to pay for repairing the roof. Tallent said the city can pay them back over the next four to five years. Tallent also has decided to spearhead an effort by the Gladewater Chamber to start cleaning up the debris-filled, unsightly lots around town. He addressed members of the chamber at their monthly meeting and outlined the two to three year plan of attack. “I didn’t want to get involved,” he told the gathering. But he also couldn’t sit idly by, so he and Beverly have pledged $2,000 to get the ball rolling. “We’ve let our town go too long. We’re going to clean this town up.” The first lots on Tallent’s hit list are on Howard Street, the Continued on Page 8

By Jim Bardwell None of the Gladewater council members wanted to raise taxes Monday night - it’s unpopular and it is a burden on taxpayers. But city services, even basic services, cost money the city currently doesn’t have due to slumping property values. So after about two hours of discussion at a special budget workshop, the council asked city manager Theo Melancon to bring a balanced budget to them Thursday at 6 p.m. that is funded by a 4.5 to 6-cent tax increase. The current rate is $0.66 per $100 valuation. Every penny increase equals about $10/annually on a $100,000 home. So taxpayers will be kicking in an extra $45 to $60 if the council adopts the tax hike. Melancon had asked for a 9-cent tax increase, saying the city needed the big jump to keep from laying off employees or cutting programs. But council members couldn’t bring themselves to hit the taxpayers with that large of increase.

D E

X I F

Kudos to the city for patching the pothole in front of the Former Students’ Building on Hendricks Street. With workers stretched thin with so many city jobs to be done including repairing streets; Gay Avenue, Hendricks and Rodeo Drive as the most heavily traveled city streets by thousands of visitors to Gladewater High School fall sporting events should be a priority on the city’s to do list to ensure a good impression of our city.

The Pothole of the Week can be found on Virginia Street all the way from Gay Avenue south to Jeanette Street. This stretch of street is pockmarked with breaks, dips, gouges and washouts.

Continued on Page 4

Gladewater man gets probation in attempted deadly conduct case

Gladewater’s Lake Warden Mike Herrod receives a catfish to measure from a young angler at Saturday’s event. Over 150 kids participated. (See more photos By Phillip Williams/Correspondent Photo By Suzanne Bardwell GILMER--115th District Judge Lauren Parish sentenced 23 on Page 10) persons on felony charges and two for misdemeanor offenses between Aug. 2 and 9, said Upshur County District Attorney Billy Byrd’s office. for the scoreboard in less than By Suzanne Bardwell Details of the felony sentencings were as follows and all Gladewater Superintendent 10 years. pleaded guilty unless otherwise shown, Byrd’s office reported: He also reported that security Gladewater resident Devontric Teray Smith, who turns 26 Dr. J.P. Richardson reported cameras and a spotlight have on Aug. 24, was placed on five years “deferred adjudication at Monday’s school board been installed at the stadium meeting that a new $260,000 probation” Aug. 5 for attempted deadly conduct. track to ensure security and “Deferred adjudication” means no final conviction appears on electronic scoreboard will be assist evening and early a defendant’s record if he/she successfully completes probation. installed by the first football morning walkers. He also However, when such probation is revoked, the individual can game. The 24’ x 32’ foot said that fencing and painting structure will have a 13’ x 22’ receive up to the maximum sentence for the offense. renovations are planned for The Upshur County Sheriff’s Office probed Smith’s May video area. the softball and baseball fields Athletic Director/Head 21, 2015 crime. Like all other defendants who were placed on probation, he was ordered to pay court costs, $50 to Coach John Berry has been that will include painting and charged by Dr. Richardson fencing. Crimestoppers and $100 to the Crime Victims Fund. Board members minus Some other terms of Smith’s probation include a $1,000 fine, with securing sponsors to Rickie Blackmon, approved 400 hours of community service, undergoing an alcohol-drug help underwrite the cost of the construction check payments evaluation, receiving counseling, consulting a licensed drug board with six sponsor slots to to Apex, Huckabee, RLM, counselor, receiving instruction in anger management and be placed on the scoreboard B r a d y a n d L o n e Star with each sponsorship valued training in life skills. Furnishings for a combined Assistant District Attorney Natalie Miller represented the state at $5,000. Dr. Richardson says that the sponsorships will pay total of $1,257,920.30 for Continued on Page 3 construction of Bond. An additional payment to RLM of $99,954.74 for improvements and renovations at Jack V. Murphy Stadium was also approved by the board.

$260K scoreboard, bond wrap up addressed by GISD trustees Dr. Richardson reported that there are glitches and loose ends that are being addressed at both Weldon, the new GMS and the stadium. Air conditioning issues are being ironed out at Weldon Elementary and GMS as well. A mural placed at the new GMS library was measured incorrectly and will remain in place as is until the replacement mural is available. New Weldon playground equipment has yet to be installed because of additional costs related to asbestos abatement at the site. According to Dr. Richardson the playground equipment will be installed after school starts. He also reported that Weldon’s auditorium was power washed and that all loose ends will be addressed. The board passed the new dress code with a vote of 5-1

with Jon Rowe opposed. The only significant change was that belts would no longer be required if pants were fitted and not sagging. A new state mandated appraisal system was adopted which will allow for experienced teachers to be evaluated every three years as long as there is not a significant change in teaching assignment. Administrators will continue to be evaluated annually as well as probationary teachers. Resignations were accepted from custodian/bus driver Jason Wragg and paraprofessional Hayley Hawkins. Employment contracts were approved for Tony Rivera who will coach and teach P.E. at the high school and middle school, Culinary Arts teacher Mary Rhodes and third grade teacher Katherine Pace.

Demographics vary among the four districts including numbers of English as a Second Language students and special needs populations, as well as economically disadvantaged. To see how your campus scored turn to Page 5. To view complete reports visit the Texas Education Agency website and click on 2016 Accountability Ratings http://tea.texas.gov/Student_ Testing_and_Accountability/. According to the TEA, nearly

98 percent of all Texas school districts and charters earned an A, the highest preliminary rating possible for 2015-2016. Ratings are based on annual financial reports provided to TEA by districts and charters from the 2015 fiscal year. A school district or charter is assigned one of four possible letter grades (A, B, C or F) and a financial management rating of Superior, Above Standard Achievement, Meets Standard or Substandard Achievement.

Local schools meet TEA standards

The 2016 public school accountability ratings have been released by the Texas Education Agency with Gladewater, Union Grove, White Oak and Sabine ISDs all receiving the ‘Met Standard’ rating. To receive the rating districts and campuses must meet targets on three indices of four which include: student Perennial favorite with art lovers, artist Rome Smith demonstrates her technique achievement, student progress, at Yesterday’s Treasures during Saturday’s Art Stroll. Smith has participated in closing performance gaps and every one of the six Art Strolls that have been held. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell postsecondary readiness.

Page 2, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Only 129 shopping days left ‘til Christmas My birthday is this Friday but we celebrated it August 6. Jim gave me tickets to see Peter Frampton (my fourth time) followed by Lynyrd Skynyrd. The best part of the gift was meeting the famous musician/rock star. Frampton was one of the staples of the Guitar Hero game that introduced his music to an entirely new generation. In my youth he was one of the biggest selling rock stars of the time. Well, this old Baby Boomer got a kick out of the front row seats and the Meet & Greet which was attended by two couples. TWO! (Todd and Neta Clifton eat your hearts out!) The other fans received a letter, as did we, that Frampton would not be able to attend. We decided to make sure and camped out. The letter was intended for band member fans, not the Frampton guests. Persistence paid off once again. We actually got to visit with the once famously handsome rock star whose golden brown locks caused female fans to swoon. Well, no problem there. First, I have never been a swooner for looks, and second, that great guitarist no longer has those flowing locks. But man, can he play. His passion for music was evident from the first lick of the guitar to the last lick of the swoon worthy encore. Frampton loses himself in the music and the moment. There is a life lesson there I am sure. Lynyrd Skynyrd was everything a music fan would expect. Raucous, LOUD, (so loud that I am saving for hearing aids), patriotic, redneck and emotionally engaged. Why then was I waiting for the last strains of “Freebird” to leave? There is such a difference between someone doing something well for money and doing something passionately because they are lost in what they are doing. Getting lost in the magical moments of excellence is something I strive to experience. Jim Bardwell has given me some amazing gifts over the

Suzanne Bardwell years. Consider that I am not a “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” kind of gal. Besides concerts and meeting my Guitar Hero, Jimmy has given me a musket ball from the Battle of San Jacinto. (I have a crush on Sam Houston.) I have an autographed picture of a ‘rabbit’ (pooka) drawn by Jimmy Stewart labeled “Harvey” in Mr. Stewart’s own hand. Jim once took me to Dunleith Plantation in Natchez, Mississippi to meet Greg Iles, a best selling author who autographed a book per my hubby’s request: “To Suzanne, a true Southern Belle”. (I thought I was Scarlett O’Hara until I was 40 when I then realized I was just a loudmouthed Melanie.) I also have a piece of the Berlin Wall, a signed picture of Eric Clapton, a wild assortment of snow globes, and a bracelet that tells a part of our story in charms. But the first gift my Prince Charming ever gave me was at church camp in Athens when I was 13 years old. It was an orange flower from lakeside which he managed to have deposited on my bunk pillow with a note that said: “Love, Mr. Me”. Well, “Mr. Me”, I love your ability to give the most amazing gifts. Maybe I should prime the pump here and say that I can not wait for Christmas! After all, there are only 129 shopping days left.

EDITORIAL It is you who will make a difference in Gladewater Amazing things are happening around Gladewater and every citizen can be a part of the adventure. Volunteers are making inroads into problems that have been years in the making, sometimes even generational. Yes, some of the problems are a result of limited budgets, sometimes improper or poor maintenance, and occasionally even limited vision. Some brick walls were a result of a lack of willingness to receive input that strayed from the status quo. Unfortunately, in a few areas the lack of progress or success was a result of a few individuals who welded power on boards and organizations who were more interested in territory than receiving new ideas. But that appears to be changing and changing rapidly. Behind the scenes donors, both financial and through their physical labor, have temporarily plugged the holes of Lee Library’s roof. Now local philanthropists have generously offered to loan the city the money to properly repair the problem. Innovation is being embraced in resolution of problems throughout the city. Key individuals who know how to color outside the lines are finding new resources, programs, grants and opportunities that will help Gladewater move successfully into a 21st century hometown. Concerned citizens from one end of town to another are cleaning up their neighborhoods and demanding a higher standard of living in a community where in the past eyes

were often shut to neglect and dangerous living conditions. Gladewater’s children need to know that they deserve not only safe housing, but also a lovely environment in which to learn, play and thrive. They also must learn that they too, have a responsibility in helping to create and maintain that environment. Those values are the true investment in Gladewater’s future. Gladewater Cares! could be our new motto and one well worth our commitment. From volunteers at our school campuses; the new Boys & Girls Club after school program; to local Boy Scout and Cub Packs not only learning nifty skills, but living the values of volunteerism; our youth are being mentored and taught to lead. Of course those values are being lived out front and center in many of our local churches, youth groups, civic and social organizations that go far beyond their intended mission to do more, to be more. That more is writing the future of Gladewater. Although laws, regulations and ordinances are necessary in our world of city government and public education for enforcement of standards; they do not touch hearts, ignite effort or promote a sense of community with a desire for something better. It is each citizen’s efforts that contribute to that grand goal. It is you who will make a difference in Gladewater. You.

The Gladewater City Council will meet Thursday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. and consider the following business: * CONSIDERATION of awarding bid for the 2016 Group Pavement Rehabilitation Program * PUBLIC HEARING regarding a request from Linda Hanson Humber to subdivide property located at Abstract A8 Henry W. Augustine Survey, Tract 79, more commonly known as 2820 W. Upshur * CONSIDERATION of demolition of request from Linda Hanson Humber to subdivide property located at Abstract A8 Henry W. Augustine Survey, Tract 79, more commonly known as 2820 W. Upshur * PUBLIC HEARING regarding a request from Craig Morgan and Linda Pope for a restricted commercial zoning for the sale of alcoholic beverages for on premise consumption at Lots 9B & 10B NCB 56, more commonly known as 104 S. Main Street * CONSIDERATION of request from Craig Morgan and Linda Pope for a restricted commercial zoning for the sale of alcoholic beverages for on premise consumption at Lots 9B & 10B NCB 56, more commonly known as 104 S. Main Street * PUBLIC HEARING regarding a request from Mobilitie, LLC dba Texas Utility Pole Authority to install a new 120’ utility pole within an existing right-of-way of Pacific Street in the vicinity of Lot 1A NCB 1 * CONSIDERATION of request from Mobilitie, LLC dba Texas Utility Pole Authority to install a new 120’ utility pole

within an existing right-of-way of Pacific Street in the vicinity of Lot 1A NCB 1 * CONSIDERATION of awarding bids for purchase of real property located at Abstract A175 William Goodwin Survey, Tract 18, total of 19.82 acres, located on Phillips Springs Road * CONSIDERATION of awarding bids for purchase of real property located at; a) Lots 1-3 NCB 7 Gladewater and PT Alley, more commonly known as 116 W. Pacific Avenue and b) Lots 5-7 Block 7 Greenway, more commonly known as 197 E. Eleanor Street * CONSIDERATION of TxDOT’s removal of signal on US 80 at Dean Street and subsequent maintenance of STOP signs * CONSIDERATION of ordinance to amend §134.05 – Use or Possession of Restricted Smoking Paraphernalia * CONSIDERATION of authorizing City Manager to negotiate lease agreement with GEDCO for storage space in Lee Public Library * CONSIDERATION of ordinance to amend the budget for fiscal year 2016 * CONSIDERATION of PROPOSED tax rate for fiscal year 2017 * EXECUTIVE SESSION for 6-month performance evaluation of City Manager * RECONVENE in to open session and take any action necessary regarding evaluation of City Manager

Thursday city council agenda set

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Telephone: 903-845-2235 Fax: 903-845-2237

Email: gladewatermirror@aol.com

Owners:

Jim & Suzanne Bardwell Publisher/Editor: Jim Bardwell Advertising: Suzanne Bardwell Office Manager: Tiffany Hobbs

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THE ECONOMIST By Dr. M. Ray Perryman

A man, a plan, a canal, Panama In June, work was completed on an expansion of the Panama Canal, with hopes of increased trade between Asia and the US Gulf and East Coasts. The canal was originally completed in 1914 at a cost of more than $350 million dollars. It took a decade to build the lock canal stretching roughly 50 miles to connect the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The canal eliminates the need to travel around the southern tip of South America and shortens a sea journey from Asia to the US East Coast by some 8,000 miles. In 2015, 340 million tons of goods passed through the Panama Canal, representing about 6% of global trade in terms of capacity. However, as international shipping rates have fallen because of uncertain international trade levels and an oversupply of ships, shipping companies are increasingly using larger, more efficient ships. These vessels are too large for the original canal locks, making it necessary for the Panama Canal to expand in order to be able to compete in the evolving economy. The Panama Canal expansion took nine years and cost $5.4 billion. It doubles the canal’s capacity through adding a third lane with larger locks. While previously the canal could only accommodate ships that carried a maximum of 5,000 containers, the new locks can accommodate ships carrying up to 14,000 containers. The new locks use reinforced steel, which did not exist at the time of the original construction, and a staggering 4.4 million cubic meters of concrete (significantly more than is in Hoover Dam and the accompanying power plant facilities). In Panama, the project has created an estimated 30,000 jobs and is expected to spur further investment from the private sector in support services located along the canal, including a new container terminal outside Panama City. Not only will the expansion increase the level of traffic and size of ships, but also generate higher toll revenues for the country. The toll is roughly $90 per shipping container, and the canal’s executives anticipate a 16% to 17% revenue increase within the first year. It is expected that the larger ships will move more perishable cargo like produce, fish, and meat to the East Coast ports while new liquefied natural gas producers will take advantage of the canal to export to new Asian markets. In response to the anticipated increase in trade, US ports are also expanding in order to accommodate larger ships. East and Gulf Coast ports have spent over $150 billion on infrastructure improvements including dredging for deeper harbors, expanding terminals, and improving rail and road connections to docks. Although a majority of containerized freight from Asia has historically arrived at West Coast ports to be then transferred to rail or freight trucks to reach the rest of the continental US, even before this year, problems with shipping congestion and labor disputes have shifted more imports bound for the eastern part of the US to East and Gulf Coast ports. These ports now receive close to 34% of containerized imports from Asia, compared to a little over 29% two years ago. Nine out of the 10 fastest growing import ports in the US in 2015 were found along the Gulf and East Coasts and not a single West Coast port made the list (the 10th fastest growing port was San Juan, Puerto Rico). This trend will only continue with the completion of the Panama Canal expansion, as an estimated 10% of US import container traffic from Asia is expected to shift from the West Coast to other terminals by 2020. Texas is poised to benefit from the shifting trade routes. About 20% of all US port tonnage moves through the state’s ports, and three Texas ports (Houston, Beaumont, and Corpus Christi) are among the 10 busiest in the country. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Texas ports invested over $300 million from 2010 to 2014 in improvements as Texas hopes to become even more competitive in global trade. The Port of Houston, for example, is expecting to see 5-6% annual growth in trade over the next few years. Houston is a logical gateway for any shipments bound for the central US, and trade with Asia accounts for approximately a third of the port’s container volume. While there is a lot of potential for import growth, the Panama Canal expansion may have an even greater impact on Texas exports such as liquefied natural gas. With continued updates to port and transport infrastructure, Texas can take advantage of the increased trade coming and going through the Panama Canal. By increasing the efficiency and lowering the cost of shipping, the expansion can enhance economic activity around the world. As a major gateway and the leading state for exports, Texas can only benefit from this major enhancement to global transportation infrastructure. Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com). He also serves as Institute Distinguished Professor of Economic Theory and Method at the International Institute for Advanced Studies.

Recycling 2nd Saturday of month at City Hall

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016

Council hears earful at tax hike hearing

By Jim Bardwell The Gladewater City Council got an earful at the first of two public hearings on the proposed 9-cent tax hike and the 2017 budget last Thursday night. Taxpayers loudly voiced their displeasure and disappointment in the council and many of its recent decisions, such as approving the $2.3 million ballpark without taking it to the people to decide as well as proposing a 9-cent tax hike to fund the proposed budget which includes approximately $4,455,000 in the General Fund and approximately $2,457,000 in the city’s Enterprise Fund. The council will formally vote on the proposed budget and tax rate at its Sept. 15 regular council meeting. A second and final public hearing was set for Tuesday, Sept. 6. The results of the second public hearing were not available at presstime. But the first public hearing was probably enough for some council members. “The ballfield is the main thing everyone is upset with,” said former mayor John Paul Tallent. “Our ballfield looks like a piece of junk compared to others. It was a rush to judgement.” Councilwoman Lana Niemann replied by saying if she gets criticized for doing what she thought was best for the city, then she was OK with that. Local business owners Don and Jan Greenwood told the council “we’re paying for your lack of judgement and stupidity.” City manager Theo Melancon said the new ballfield complex makes up about 14-percent of the city’s debt in 2016-17 - about $140,000. Niemann then asked the crowd of about 25 in attendance which they thought was more important - the library or the ballfield. The crowd quickly and loudly replied - “Library.” Tallent told the council they had used “poor judgement,” in voting for the ballfield complex, but then said “it’s built, we need to support it now.” Continued on Page 11

Vol. 75, No. 36

50¢ Evidence Bears 29, Bulldogs 27 tampering Look Inside! nets 8 years 1 Section, 12 pages

By Phillip Williams Correspondent GILMER--115th District Judge Lauren Parish sentenced 21 persons on felony charges and one for a misdemeanor between Aug. 30 and 31, said Upshur County District Attorney Billy Byrd’s office. Details of the felony sentencings were as follows, and all pleaded guilty unless otherwise indicated, Byrd’s office said: James Gary Nixon, 42, of Gladewater, drew eight years in prison Aug. 30 for tampering with physical evidence. Robert Earl Fitzgerald, 51, of Big Sandy, drew eight years in prison Aug. 30 for possession of a controlled substance--four grams or more but less than 200 grams of methamphetamine. Big Sandy police investigated the Nov. 19, 2015 offense. Byrd represented the state at sentencing; Longview attorney John Moore represented Fitzgerald. Elaina Kaye Grunden, 23, of Gilmer, on Aug. 31 drew a 10-year prison term upon pleading guilty to tampering with physical evidence, and received nine concurrent seven-year prison terms when her probation was revoked Senior Bear Isaiah Davis scored the winning touchdown of the game against on nine counts of “forgery-the Kilgore Bulldogs and the Gladewater defense held tough for a 29-27 victory. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell Continued on Page 11 An eyesore came down last week in Gladewater. This house on Howard Street, behind the former Gladewater Middle School was being torn down and is the first of many eyesores to be torn down in the coming year as Gladewater mounts a major campaign to clean up the city. Scan the QR Code with your smartphone to see a timelapse video of the tear down.

The teal ribbons around town focus attention on ovarian cancer. Wording on the ribbons remind people to ‘know the symptoms’. The ribbons are placed annually by a local gentleman who lost his wife to the disease. He wants to raise awareness to protect others from the disease.

Men indicted on child endangerment, Pothole of the Week burglar of habitation charges BY PHILLIP WILLIAMS/Correspondent GILMER--The Upshur County Grand Jury last Thursday returned 18 indictments, three of them sealed, while no-billing three cases and passing one other, said District Attorney Billy Byrd. Defendants, charges and bond information in the open indictments were as follows, Byrd’s office said: Tyler Wayne Craig, 24, of Gladewater, burglary of habitation on April 19. He remained in county jail under $50,000 bond. Korwin Trenard Key, 30, of Gladewater, abandoning or endangering child on Feb. 7, $10,000 bond Randy Keith Andrews, 26, of Big Sandy, assault/family violence with previous conviction on July 1. He remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. John Robert Keith, 46, of Sulphur Springs, evading arrest/ detention with vehicle on June 11. He too remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. Martin Rosales, 32, of Leesburg, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on July 1. He also remained in county jail under $100,000 bond. In a reindictment of a case, Herbey Garza, 38, of Longview, was charged in a single indictment with two counts of possession of controlled substance--one of THC and one of methamphetamine. He is accused of committing both offenses April 5. Total bond was set at $15,000. Jason Russell Parks, 36, of Gilmer, theft of property (of) less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions on June 30,

$10,000 Scott Raymond Arnold, 23, of Gilmer, theft of property (of) less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions on Aug. 5. He remained in county jail under $5,000 bond. Shanell Lavette Knox, 39, of Longview, theft of property (of) less than $2,500 with two or more previous convictions on July 16, $5,000 Michael Shane McGinnis, 39, of Harleton, theft of property of the value of $2,500 or more but less than $30,000 on July 18. He remained in county jail under $30,000 bond. Michael Dwayne Johnson, 53, of Gilmer, driving while intoxicated; subsequent offense on July 29. He remained in county jail under $25,000 bond. Randy William Sharp, 53, of Omaha, Tx., possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) with intent to deliver on July 16, $50,000 Braden Derek Jones, 29, of Gilmer, possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine) on May 4, $10,000 Jimmy Wayne Turnbough, 44, of Buffalo, Tex., evading arrest/ detention with vehicle on July 18. He remained in county jail under $10,000 bond. Adrian Okeith Johnson, 19, of Tyler, evading arrest/detention with previous conviction on June 27, $5,000 The indictments which were sealed because no arrests had been made in those cases included one each for driving while intoxicated--subsequent offense, burglary of building and tampering with physical evidence.

This series of deep gouges can be found in the 700 black of Martha Street. Send your favorite pothole to: pothole@gladewatermirror. com and we’ll pass it along to the city, county and state.

Page 12, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016

Lansdale to speak at ‘Meet the Author’

Gladewater native and bestselling author Joe Lansdale will be the speaker at the Oct. 6 Friends of Lee Library Meet the Author at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be offered prior to the event with a brief membership meeting held before Lansdale speaks. Lansdale is the Writer in Residence at Stephen F. Austin University. He has authored over 40 novels and numerous short stories. He has written for comics, television,

film, newspapers and internet sites.

Jack’s Pick of the Litter

Awards won include the Edgar Award, eight Bram Stoker Awards, the Horror Writers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the British Fantasy Award, the Grinzani Cavour Prize for Literature and many others. His novella “Bubba HoTep” was adapted to film starring Bruce Campbell and Ossie Davis and has become a cult movie favorite. The film adaptation of his novel “Cold in July” was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

The Gladewater Antique District Association hosted Bluegrass & Burgers Saturday night as a fundraiser for the billboard fund. The East Mountain Bluegrass Band entertained the crowd that enjoyed grilled hamburgers, watermelon and more on the lovely grounds of Walker Manor. A silent auction was also held with items ranging from a handcrafted crate bench to collectibles. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

Jack needs your help - these dogs are in immediate need of ADOPTION, RESCUE or FOSTER. If you can help, please contact the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center located at 303 HG Mosley in Longview or call 903-297-PETS.

Jesse ID#: A33398976 Yorkie Gender: M Age: 7+ NEUTERED

Pigtails ID#: A33270440 Catahoula/Pointer-x Gender: F Age: 1 Weight: 34 lbs

Cindy ID#: A33403211 Pit Bull Terrier-x Gender: F Age: 2 Weight: 44 lbs

Sampson ID#: A33376416 Lab/Shep-x Gender: M Age: 2 Weight: 48.5 lbs

Last Saturday’s Recycling Day, held at city hall, had 128 households participate. The North Loop Church of Christ was the group that volunteered on this day. The monthly recycling effort is held on the second Saturday of every month, with a different civic or church group volunteering at the site. Photo By Jim Bardwell

Political correctness is killing the United States By Phillip Williams/Correspondent GILMER--Conservative author Nick Adams told the quarterly meeting of the Upshur County Republican Party’s Executive Committee on Saturday night that “political correctness” must be crushed because it “is killing the United States.” Adams, an Australian in the process of becoming an American citizen, deemed political correctness “a cultural mind-set. . .that says that you should strive for mediocrity and not greatness.” It is “kissing butt and not kicking it,” he added. The author of two books, Retaking America--Crushing Political Correctness and The American Boomerang, Adams also described how he has established the Foundation for Liberty and American Greatness to combat “anti-American bigotry.” The organization is going into American elementary, middle and high schools to discuss what makes the nation special, the Constitution, and what the United States has given the world, said Adams. “We want them (students) to understand that America is a values system,” he explained.

FLAG is also “a pro-American voice in the culture” which has “America’s back” on radio and television when critics charge that the nation is racist and “the great Satan of the world,” Adams added. In addition, “FLAG wants to host the world’s first antiAmerican watch list,” he said. The organization plans to find out the workplaces of, and obtain photographs of, those who hate America and identify them through Google on the World Wide Web, Adams told the group at the Lantana Activity Center outside Gilmer. “If you libel America, you’re treated like a hero. That’s outrageous,” the author asserted. He said his organization was trying to change the culture and the media “narrative,” and that “FLAG is all about using the tactics of the left back against them.” Elaborating on that, he said “it’s our turn to shame” people for their views. He said that if someone says something bad about the United States, “FLAG’s gonna call you a racist.”

Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 39

1 Section, 12 pages

50¢

2016 UGHS HOMECOMING Reclaim your neighborhood “National Night Out” block parties will be held throughout Gladewater and on the Upshur County Courthouse in Gilmer on Tuesday, Oct. 4. The event is intended to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in a united fight for a safer nation. The Gladewater Police and Upshur County Crime Stoppers are spear-heading the effort locally. The Upshur County event is set for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. “National Night Out is another opportunity for our department to reach out to members of our community in an effort to build positive relationships, said Gladewater Chief of Police Rob Vine. “With what we are seeing in other parts of the nation, we are extremely fortunate here in Gladewater to enjoy the working partnership we have with our citizens, which is based upon open communication and trust. This event gives citizens and officers alike an opportunity to spend time getting to know each other, as people and as fellow human beings, which is absolutely key to successfully working together as a team.” In Gladewater, four community block parties are planned as of Monday, according to organizers. Parties will be held at St. James Missionary Baptist Church in the Red Rock Community, the Garfield Community Center, as well as block parties on Melba Street and Culver Street. Residents are encouraged to host their own black parties and get out and meet your neighbors. If you would like to coordinate your party with the Gladewater Police Department or if you need help planning it, call Capt. Michael Kirkwood at 903-845-2166 or go to: GLADEWATERPD.COM/NNO .

Union Grove ISD pulled out all the stops last week in celebrating homecoming - week long activities at school, recognition of alumni, a parade, fireworks and the crowning of this year’s homecoming queen. Last year’s Homecoming Queen Lauren Gibson crowned this year’s Homecoming Queen Emily Harroff as her brother Caleb looked on. Photos by Kim Hill

New state representative speaks to Oil Patch TRTA

By Suzanne Bardwell Jay Dean, who will be sworn in as the District 7 State Representative in January spoke to the Oil Patch Texas Retired Teachers & School Personnel unit last Thursday at their September meeting at Gladewater’s First United Methodist Church’s Jeter Hall. Several local businessmen, concerned citizens, Mayor Harold Wells and City Manager Theo Melancon also attended the program. “So much that is right about education has been swept aside,” Dean said. “There is a whole lot more right with education in Texas than what is wrong.” Six area superintendents were invited to attend as guests of the group those who came were Union Grove’s Brian Gray, White Oak’s Mike Gilbert and Spring Hill’s Steven Snell. The three are active in lobbying legislators to support and protect East Texas school districts. Dean said that as a legislator he is “absolutely, categorically opposed to vouchers” because of the negative impact it would have on public education and students. “We are 44th in school spending as a state, yet we want to recruit world class companies,” Dean said. “We need to be focused on working with education to accomplish our goals.” Dean attributes some of the problem of addressing issues by the legislature to the fact that it meets every other year and said

Clean it up ...

This section of overgrown vegetation on Pacific Street is scheduled to be cleaned up by volunteers. The effort is being spearheaded by former mayor John Paul Tallent. Volunteers plan to hit overgown lots throughout the city.

District 7 Representative-elect Jay Dean spoke to the Oil Patch Texas Retired Teachers & School Personnel chapter of TRTA last Thursday at First United Methodist Church. Concerned citizens, businessmen and three area superintendents also were in attendance. Photo By Jim Bardwell that it sometimes takes two to three sessions to tackle serious “We were the first city to ban K2,” Dean proudly said. “But problems and issues within the state.” it took four years to get through the legislature the same ban. As former mayor of Longview he pointed to their city’s fight “We have to take a look now at our education system. We against K2, a form of synthetic marijuana which has proven to Continued on Page 7 be dangerous.

Lee Public Library is a lifeline for many

By Suzanne Bardwell Amy Whitaker is a regular at Lee Public Library. The mother of a 2-year old and a 7-year old lives in nearby public housing and walks to the library several days a week. “I can’t afford computer service and I have a workfrom-home business,” Whitaker said. “People in need, need access to resources. The library is my lifeline and it is right across the street.” That lifeline’s hours were cut from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the city belt tightening that has occurred in the face of declining mineral and tax revenue and rising costs for necessary infrastructure repairs that have been postponed for years. One group, the Friends of Lee Library, exists to support library needs through twice annual

Amy Whitaker is one of several who regularly use the Lee Public Library as their lifeline. Photo by Suzanne Bardwell book sales and membership continues through this week in drives. The fall book sale the meeting room of the library

during library hours. FOL will host Meet the Author at 6:30 p.m. next Thursday, Oct. 6 in the Meeting Room of the library. Gladewater native and Stephen F. Austin University Author in Residence Joe Lansdale will be the speaker. Lansdale has had several best selling books some of which have been made into movies and television series. The library also hosts a children’s story time weekly on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and a Summer Youth reading program with activities to engage and support what children are achieving as students. “What a community values is evident in what it supports,” FOL Membership Chair Judy Banner said. “Literacy should be at the top of the list.”

Recycling 2nd Saturday of month at City Hall

Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016

Locals get probabtion for drugs BY PHILLIP WILLIAMS Correspondenbt GILMER--Some 10 felony defendants were sentenced by either 115th District Court Judge Lauren Parish, or visiting Judge Joe Clayton, between Sept. 21 and 23, said Upshur County District Attorney Billy Byrd’s office. Clayton sentenced one defendant Sept. 21 while Parish sentenced the others Sept. 23, the office said. Other details of the sentencings were as follows, and all defendants pleaded guilty unless otherwise indicated, Byrd’s office reported: James Travis Foster, 37, of Gladewater, was placed on four years probation of a twoyear state jail term Sept. 23 for possession of a controlled substance--less than one gram of methamphetamine. The Upshur County Sheriff’s Office probed the April 3, 2015 offense. As were all defendants placed on probation, Foster was ordered to pay a $50 fee to Crime Stoppers, contribute $100 to the crime victims fund and undergo a drug/alcohol evaluation. Some other terms of his probation are 400 hours of community service, training in life skills, and paying an attorney’s fee, court cost, a $1,000 fine and a $180 fee for the Texas Department of Public Safety’s testing of the drug in the case. Assistant District Attorney Aleana Peoples represented the state at sentencing. Gladewater attorney Barry Wallace represented Foster. Kelly Madelina Madden, 50, of Gladewater, was placed on five years probation of a twoyear state jail term Sept. 23 for possession of a controlled substance--less than one gram of methamphetamine. However, she was ordered to remain in county jail until a bed opens at a substance abuse

Vol. 75, No. 40

50¢

1 Section, 10 pages

GPD adds aerial drone to arsenal By Jim Bardwell Drones have been used in the military, for commercial purposes, and for personal use for several years and now law enforcement is integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the police force. Like other forms of police equipment, the Gladewater Police Department’s drone is another important tool in the department’s crime-fighting tackle box. The drone can take officers places they have not been able to go before - above the crime scenes or accidents for a more detailed vantage point. With a drone police can actually look down and see who and what police are dealing with. It can enhance the department’s ability to put resources in the right spot at the right time quickly. Sgt. David Burrows said police aren’t using the drone to spy on residents, its just another tool to help police do their job better and safer. For example, the drone will be able to fly into a location where a suspect is in a concealed position while keeping police safe from harm and still gathering valuable information which can led to the person’s capture. Or the drone can pursue a suspect who has fled into thick wooded areas or difficult terrain and give police on the ground a bird’s eye view and help with the Gladewater Police Detective Justin Carlson watches as Sgt. David capture. Another very important purpose Burrows takes the GPD’s new drone through its paces. Carlson of unmanned aerial system used in law is training to assist Burrows in operating the drone. enforcement is for search and rescue. Photos by Jim Bardwell Continued on Page 3

Continued on Page 9

Can’t we fix this ...

This dead tree is ready to topple on to someone’s car as they drive down Shell Camp Road, just north of U.S. 80. A nearby resident said she has pleaded with Gladewater city officials for months to cut it down, but still it stands due to budget retraints. Hopefully no one will get seriously hurt before this dangerous tree can be removed.

Noted author Joe Lansdale guest speaker October 6

Gladewater native and bestselling author Joe Lansdale will be the guest speaker at the Oct. 6 Friends of Lee Library “Meet the Author” at 6:30 p.m. in the library. Refreshments will be served. Lansdale is the author of over 40 novels and numerous short stories. His work has appeared in national anthologies, magazines, and collections, as well as numerous foreign publications. He has written for comics, television, film, newspapers, and Internet sites. He has received the Edgar Award, eight Bram Stoker Awards, the Horror Writers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the British Fantasy Award, the Grinzani Cavour Prize for Literature, the Herodotus Historical Fiction Award, the Inkpot Award for Contributions to Science Fiction and Fantasy, and many others. His novella Bubba Ho-Tep was adapted to film by Don Coscarelli, starring Bruce Campbell and Ossie Davis. His story “Incident On and Off a Mountain Road” was adapted to film for Showtime’s “Masters of Horror,” and he adapted his short story “Christmas with the Dead” to film hisownself. The film adaptation of his novel Cold in July was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. He is currently co-producing several films and is “Writer In Residence” at Stephen F. Austin State University, and is the founder of the martial arts system Shen Chuan: Martial Science and Shen Chuan Family System. He is a member of both the U.S. and International Martial Arts Halls of Fame. He lives in Nacogdoches with his wife, dog, and two cats.

Sweat equity plus $10K committed to cleanup, community volunteers needed

By Suzanne Bardwell Sweat equity is being invested in Gladewater along with about $10,000 to clean overgrown lots and clear debris in areas that create a negative impression of Gladewater as a welcoming hometown with inviting businesses. Former mayor John Paul Tallent and his wife Beverly are chipping in $2,000 and the Gladewater Economic Development Corporation is putting an $8,000 in the pot to clean up lots according to Tallent. The labor along with the financial contribution by Tallent who is spearheading the endeavor to clean up 30 lots has already made a dent in some neighborhoods that looked more like a swamp or jungle than a city block. “We’ve got a lot to do,” Tallent said. “But we are doing it.” Tallent who has already attacked some lots on Gay Avenue, as well as around

GLADEWATER FALL BEAUTIFICATION DAY SATURDAY 8 a.m. - noon

Gladewater residents may deposit bulky household garbage items into dumpsters located along E. Commerce Street downtown. Prohibited items include tires, paint, shingles, batteries, chemicals, refrigeration items, and commercial waste. The City of Gladewater will provide curbside pickup for disabled and senior citizens. To schedule this complimentary service, call Gladewater Public Works at 903-845-2586 no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 7. Perry and Roden Streets said that most of the expense was for labor and he would like to appeal to the community for more volunteers to help clear, clean and beautify their hometown.

“Boy Scout Pack 196 is going to help with the debris piles from the cleanup,” Tallent said. “But those young men could sure use more hands on a project this size.” Attacking the undergrowth

after years of neglect is going to require a lot of manpower and citizens are urged to start with their own blocks and work out. “We need a lot more men Continued on Page 10

Page 2, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016

Hometown volunteers needed ... A couple of years ago the Gladewater Mirror started running pictures of Eyesores and dangerous areas like falling down houses near schools in our community. We wrote columns and editorials about the importance of the areas which are most heavily traveled that are the only impression of Gladewater most people have. Consider that for thousands of people who attend events at Gladewater High School, Jack V. Murphy Stadium and the Rodeo Grounds all they see of Gladewater is Highway 271, Highway 80, Gay Avenue and Rodeo Drive. A lot has happened in those two years of the newspaper shining a light on these problems. The City Council created a new Beautification Board which somehow I got appointed to and it was time to put the elbow grease in addition to the ink to work. The Beautification Board’s first grant was a $1,000 Keep Texas Beautiful Lowe’s sponsored project of native plantings at the Gladewater Museum Firetruck exhibit which has been beautifully maintained by board member/volunteer Farrell Alexander. And the project isn’t finished yet. Although there were some beautifully merchant-maintained downtown planters, many more had become a shameful dumping ground for cigarette butts and dirty diapers. Those planters have, thanks to the Beautification Board’s funding, Terrie Hammer’s design, Vital Earth’s contribution of soil, and Terrie’s labor of love putting in the plants, elevated the downtown beauty factor for shoppers and natives alike. We do need help keeping those plants healthy. If they are near your place of business please consider keeping them watered and clear of debris so that our investment in downtown beauty continues to flourish. The Beautification Board is also sponsoring Adopt-A-Spot where individuals, churches and civic groups can adopt an area and commit to keeping it litter free. Anyone interested in helping out needs to just claim your territory and call Todd Clifton at Austin Bank or Suzanne Bardwell at the newspaper and get after it. The biggest grant award news is the $100,000 plus Texas Department of Transportation Green Ribbon Award which was secured through the Beautification Board to enhance the River

Suzanne Bardwell Bridge entry to Gladewater and three areas on the south loop near the new school construction. Our young people need to know that beauty is something that we all can share, that we deserve, and that all of us are responsible for maintaining. Another beautification project that will engage some of Gladewater’s school children is in the works for November. However, the clean-up ball got rolling a long time ago when Delbert and Judy Burlison committed to engaging citizens in monthly recycling and cleanup programs. Their leadership and commitment to Gladewater planted the seeds that are coming to fruition. Now we have Energizer Bunny John Paul Tallent, committed councilman and volunteer Sonny Anderson and hopefully a growing army of volunteers who will continue the Burlisons’ legacy because of civic pride and love for Gladewater. Another project in the works thanks to Police Chief Rob Vine is Operation Crackdown, which, if Gladewater qualifies, may see 20-30 dilapidated and dangerous buildings removed by the National Guard. Keep your fingers crossed. This Saturday is the city’s monthly recycling day and many volunteers along with Republic Waste Management will make sure that the brawn is available to unload what citizens bring to City Hall. There are too many people to name in this short space who are making a difference, a BIG difference by rolling up their sleeves and investing their sweat equity in Gladewater. This is an exciting time to be a part of this community. We are on the edge of bringing back a level of pride that Gladewater used to be known for and a town to be envied. A hometown that is cared for and loved. A wonderful place to come home to.

THE ECONOMIST By Dr. M. Ray Perryman

Rainy Days May Be Here To Stay (for the Short-Term) While the diversified state economy continues to grow, one area that will continue to feel the pains of lower oil prices will be the State Treasury. Texas greatly benefitted from the oil boom through revenue from natural gas and oil production taxes, which equal 7.5% of the market value of natural gas and 4.6% of the value of oil production in the state. Sales taxes, motor fuels taxes, and many other sources of funds tend to rise with the price and production of oil. Revenue from these taxes peaked at $4.6 billion in 2014, which was 9.4% of general revenue for that year. (These statistics are based on the State’s fiscal year, which runs from September 1 to August

31.) From fiscal year 2010 to 2014, the natural gas and oil production tax revenue grew at an average of 27.2% and 40.0% annually. However, as oil prices dropped in 2015, associated tax revenue also fell to less than $4 billion for fiscal year 2015 (only 7.9% of general revenue). In fiscal year 2016, revenues fell even further, with tax revenue of just $1.7 billion from oil production and only $579 million from natural gas. All in all, the Comptroller’s office had to reduce its revenue estimate for fiscal years 2016 and 2017 by $2.7 billion, due in large part because of lower oil and gas tax collections and related sales tax revenue.

This episode is not the State’s first experience with rollercoaster tax revenue from oil and gas. In the aftermath of the oil downturn of the 1980s, the state had to raise taxes and cut funding in many areas to cover the shortfall when the energy-dominated economy went downhill. To help avoid future problems, the Texas Legislature created a safety net in the form of an economic stabilization fund (ESF), commonly referred to as the “rainy day fund.” The fund was designed to set aside tax revenues during boom years in order to have funds available for any subsequent drops in oil and gas activity (like we have today). All but four states use an ESF, but with a balance of nearly $9.7 billion, Texas now has the largest (passing up Alaska in fiscal year 2016). The idea is that with conservative budgeting and fiscal management, the use of the ESF will allow the state to meet cash flow needs without having to borrow money or raise taxes in lean times, which is a normal practice for many other states as well as what was typical for Texas for much of the past three decades. More than 85% of funding for the ESF comes from oil and gas production taxes, with the remainder from a share of any uncommitted balances in the state’s general revenue at the end of each 2-year session. Originally, the fund received 75% of each year’s oil and gas production tax revenue in excess of the revenue received in 1987 ($531.9 million for oil and $599.8 million for gas). In 2014, a constitutional amendment diverted half of the ESF’s share of the oil and gas tax revenues to the State Highway Fund for transportation needs. Even with only receiving half of its original share, the ESF grew an estimated $1.2 billion in

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fiscal year 2015 after the state yielded close to $4.2 billion in oil and natural gas production tax revenue. In November, the fund will receive another $439.5 million. Over the course of the fund’s lifetime, the ESF has received $19.5 billion in deposits and has earned another $789.9 million in interest. The Legislature can make appropriations from the ESF to cover a current budget deficit or a projected revenue shortage with threefifths approval, but that has only happened once (in 2011, when $3.2 billion was used to cover a budget gap). The Legislature can also make appropriations for any other purpose with the approval of two-thirds of the body, and six appropriations of this nature have been made for purposes including water projects, disaster relief, public education, economic development, and health and human services. Overall, the Legislature has approved appropriations totaling $10.6 billion since the fund’s inception. Even with appropriations in the 1990s that nearly wiped out the balance of the fund multiple times, the recent oil surge has provided a substantial nest egg. While the state constitution sets a maximum balance for the fund at 10% of the general revenue received during the previous biennium, the ESF balance has never approached the cap. Also, the 2014 amendment stated that the ESF must have a “sufficient fund balance” but it is not specified what that should be in any amendment or law. Instead, a committee determines what the sufficient balance should be prior to each legislative session and it is currently set at $7 billion for the 2016-17 biennium. With the state facing slowing revenue growth due to the slack oil and gas industry activity, whether and how to use the available funds in the ESF will be a major topic up for debate in the upcoming legislative session. Funding challenges range from redesigning the foster care system to funding various pensions to education and infrastructure needs. In recent years, lawmakers were able to spot rain about as often as West Texans during the recent drought. Without a rise in oil prices, large spurts in funding for the ESF are going to be scarce (the natural gas production tax revenue did not even meet the threshold to be able to contribute to the ESF in fiscal year 2016). However, these are the rainy days that the ESF was originally created for, and there is a clear argument for using some of the huge available balance to meet the pressing needs of a vibrant state with enormous growth potential.

The Gladewater Museum’s Music Room has expanded its Rockabilly exhibit with the addition of a new section dedicated to Bob Luman who has been inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. The Texan rocker was born in Blackjack and raised in Nacogdoches. Luman performed at Bear’s Paradise in Gladewater as well as the Louisiana Hayride and many other area gigs. Inducted to perform at the Grand Ole’ Opry, Luman left his mark on American music. He passed away at the age of 41 from pneumonia. To learn more visit the Gladewater Museum Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment. For information call 903-845-7608 or email: info@gladewatermuseum.org.

Celebration to mark Stone Fort Museum’s 80th anniversary set NACOGDOCHES — Alongside Nacogdoches’ celebration of its 300th anniversary and Stephen F. Austin State University’s preparation for its 100th, the Stone Fort Museum on the SFA campus will honor 80 years of service to the university and community during a celebration slated for Oct. 15. SFA Piney Woods Fiddlers will open the 80th celebration at 6 p.m. at the fort before City of Nacogdoches Mayor Roger Van Horn reads a proclamation regarding the fort’s historical importance. The public is then invited to participate in come-and-go activities, including a Dutch ovencooking demonstration by Nacogdoches Boy Scouts and a discussion of life as a Texian soldier by David Pistole, living history re-enactor. “The museum is marking its anniversary with the launch of an institutional planning process that will align our programs more closely with the SFA Envisioned strategic plan,” Spears said. “The planning committee, comprising SFA faculty and staff members, local heritage resource professionals and community members, is working to advance the mission of the museum as a learning laboratory for SFA students and a relevant resource for the community.” The exhibit “El Camino Real de los Tejas and Building

Nacogdoches: 1716 - 2016” will be on display during the event and, Spears said, will correlate well with the celebration’s overall spirit. “The exhibit is an outgrowth of a decade-long project on the Camino Real, dating back to the 1998 awardwinning exhibit, ‘Traversing the Wilderness: El Camino Real in Eastern Texas,’” she added. “A series of workshops from 2008 through 2012 introduced educators to the national historic trail, and in 2015, the museum completed the initial installation of a Spanish Colonial demonstration garden that interprets native and introduced plants along the trail. The current exhibit focuses on the trail along which the Spanish traveled on their way to eastern Texas, the people and places along the trail and their impact on the development of Nacogdoches.” A John Wayne film, “The Big Trail,” will be shown on the Stone Fort’s north lawn beginning at 7:30 p.m. with a brief introduction by Jeff Williams, an expert of the Camino Real trail, who will discuss the difference between trail travel fiction and reality. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (936) 4682408 or email stonefort@ sfasu.edu.

Ratcliffe to meet in Gilmer

GILMER--U.S. Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Heath), who represents most of Upshur County in Congress, will hold a town hall meeting Monday night. The event, which will feature others speakers and is sponsored by East Texans for Liberty, is set for 7 p.m. at Disabled American Veterans post No. 204 on U.S. 271. Among other topics, Ratcliffe will discuss his questioning of FBI Director James Comey concerning Hillary Clinton’s emails, the Obama “administration’s internet giveaway, ransom payment to Iran, Syrian refugees and the effects on the U.S.A.,” said ET4L President Stacy McMahan in a news release. Ratcliffe, who represents the Fourth Congressional District, is opposed by Libertarian Cody Wommack in his bid for reelection to a second term in the Nov. 8 election. U.S. Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Tyler) represents the First Congressional District, which includes a small portion of Upshur County that is not in Ratcliffe’s district. Other speakers Monday include Keven M. Ellis, Republican nominee for the District 9 seat on the State Board of Education, and civic activist James Still, who is presenting a monthly series to ET4L on the nation’s “founding fathers.”

Page 12, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016 Gladewater sophomore Benjamin Turner and Union Grove freshman Cody Ferguson of Boy Scout Troop 198 were hard at work early Saturday morning along with Scoutmaster Allen Fowler at cleaning up a lot that had been cleared last week by John Paul Tallent and volunteers. The mowing revealed a lot piled high with refuse and trash that had been thrown into the overgrowth on the corner of Miller Street. The dedicated three tackled a job that needed at least 10 people to make headway. Photos By Suzanne Bardwell

The sixth annual Caring Hearts of Gladewater Cancer Awareness and fundraiser event fans Cartreyvon Anderson and Mahogany Anderson of Lone Star cheered on second place winner Dominque Owens of Diana; while first place winner Jessi Gonzales and her mother third place winner Carla Sexton had Jantzen and Jase along for the run. The Avinger family ran for the second year. Sexton is a cancer survivor who ran in last year’s race shortly after fighting and winning her battle with breast cancer. Photos by Suzanne Bardwell

Former White Oak High School track star Adrian Stephens, niece of Caring Hearts of Gladewater founder Shelia Faggans worked Saturday’s Caring Hearts of Gladewater sixth annual 5K at Lake Gladewater, Stephens is currently a graduate student at the University of North Texas and serves as the Director of Football Academic Operations at UNT. The 5K event boasted a variety of booths and the Good Shepherd Breast Center mobile mammography unit while Ragin’ Sound DJ’s provided motivational music and the Body of Believers Ministries’ ladies hosted a snack table. Tiffani Branch, GHS 2004 alum donated a wreath to auction and a silent auction with NFL memorabilia secured by Faggans and her supporters also helped to raise funds to support the needs of area cancer patients

Gladewater city workers collected eight large dumpsters full of trash (8,500 cubic feet) Saturday during the annual City-wide Fall Cleanup. Last fall the city collected seven dumpsters (5,500 cubic feet) full. The city holds city-wide clean-ups twice a year - in the fall and spring. Photo By Jim Bardwell

Lansdale brings his passion for writing home where it began Continued from Page 1 and shared memories from the audience. “The movie ‘Cool Hand Luke’ had come out when we were teenagers,” GHS classmate Rocky Hawkins

said. “In that movie Steve McQueen’s character eats 50 boiled eggs. Joe oneupped his character and on a dare ate 50 raw eggs at the bowling alley here.” Whether the gulping of 50

Jack’s Pick of the Litter Jack needs your help - these dogs are in immediate need of ADOPTION, RESCUE or FOSTER. If you can help, please contact the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center located at 303 HG Mosley in Longview or call 903-297-PETS.

Josey Ann ID#: A33640151 American Pit Bull Terrier-x Gender: F Age: 1.5 Weight: 50 lbs

Hazel ID#: Daisy ID#: A33672729 Lab/Pit-x Gender: F Age: 1.5

raw eggs made Joe Lansdale cool or not to his peers, he has certainly attained that status with his fans and critics. He has won a bevy of awards that includes the E d g a r Aw a r d , 1 0 B r a m Stoker Awards, the Horror Writers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the British Fantasy Award, New York Times Notable Book of the Year and a continuing list that is seemingly endless. His novel “The Thicket” was voted one of the best historical novels by the Library Journal. “I saw a lot of racism, meanness and oddness, as well as a lot of kindness,” Lansdale said. “I draw on all those things. As well as tall tales and stories I heard from others. A number of the dark things I write about are inspired by true events.” Lansdale said that he grew

* Born Oct. 28, 1951 in Gladewater * Lansdale v. Tyler Junior College (Oct. 9, 1970) - Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled regulation of length or style of a college student’s hair is irrelevant to any legitimate college administrative interests and any such regulation creates an arbitrary classification of college students. * Author of novella “Bubba Ho-Tep” which became a cult movie classic * Film adaptation of novel “Cold in July” nominated for Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival * The Sundance TV series “Hap & Leonard” season 2 will kick off March 2, 2017 * Written four episodes of “Batman: The Animated Series” * Founder of the Shen Chuan: Martial Arts Science * Member of the United States & International Martial Arts Hall of Fame * Writer in Residence Stephen F. Austin University up poor and worked in a city program for kids from poorer homes. “I did garbage truck work, brush gathering, street jobs,

whatever they had in the summer,” he said. “I also worked at tearing down houses with hammer and crowbar, and toward the end

of my time in high school, like a lot of kids I went to school with, worked nights at the aluminum chair factory in Owentown, Imperial Aluminum.” Lansdale met his wife at Stephen F. Austin University where he is now the Writer in Residence. After they married he said they moved back to his family’s home in the Starrville area and farmed. “We grew and canned everything we needed,” Lansdale said. “I thought farming would allow me the time to pursue writing. That didn’t happen. I had to turn my complete attention to words and Karen was supportive. Here we are all these years and books later. “I am like a magpie. Any idea that seems shiny to me, I pick it up and take it back to my nest.”

Dani ID#: A33647784 Lab-x Gender: F Age: 1 Weight: 53 lbs

Sabine ID#: A33233198 Husky Gender: F Age: 2 Weight: 71 lbs

The meticulously maintained Yard of the Month at 202 Lafayette belongs to Martha Jo Nichols. The multi-level shrubs, tree placement, pot plantings, porch decorations and cushiony St. Augustine make for a lush yard and eye candy.

Yard of the Month Sponored by

Superior Soils & Fertilizers

Recycling 2nd Saturday of month at City Hall

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016

Vol. 75, No. 49

1 Section, 10 pages

50¢

Builders finding Gladewater ‘business friendly’ By Jim Bardwell There is a movement afoot in Gladewater, with civic pride renewed with every overgrown lot cleaned up and every delapoidated house torn down. And this communityy-wide effort to change Gladewater’s image has not gone unnoticed to people outside the city limits. Last week Longview city officials visited Gladewater to review a new housing project under construction by East Texas Homes, LLC. East Texas Homes builds cost-effective custom homes and spec homes throughout the East Texas region, including L o n g v i e w, W h i t e O a k , Hallsville, Marshall, Kilgore and now Gladewater. Currently the company is building four 650-750 square foot homes behind the Gladewater Emergency Services building, with hopes of turning those four in to dozens more.

The Longview contingency was reveiwing ETH’s project because a similar project is being propose for their city and they wanted to see a finished product. But while in Gladewater, ETH’s Mike Alston said the group was extremely impressed by all the cleaned up lots they saw during their drive through town. Even more impressive was the fact that the clean-up effort is a volunteer endeavor. “They were very impressed,” said Alston, who said the cleanup effort is one reason he and his partners decided to invest in Gladewater. “With all the cleaned up areas, it is prime opportunity for us. And the city has worked with us the whole way. I bet you’ll see a lot more developers start looking at Gladewater.” “Gladewater is in a very pivotal stage in its history. I cannot think of a more pressing time for the city to seize the moment and take advantage

of new opportunities,” said Gladewater City Manager Theo Melancon. “Many governmental entities fail to keep customer and resident service at a premium. Our goal will always be to remain resident-centric. Our goal to be a professional, yet friendly administration will be welcomed by developers. Mr. Alston has developed a brilliant plan of action and we have been pleased with getting to work alongside him through these projects.” Alston said he and his partners son Aaron Alston and friend Joe Pinkston are offering Gladewater renters a chance to own for the same price as renting. The homes, while smaller than standard homes now being built in the area, have all the amenities as their larger cousins - marble countertops, two bedrooms, one bath with central air and heat and carpent throughout - but with a much

smaller price tag. He said these homes are geared for the “firsttime buyers” or retirees. “Our homes cost between $65,000 to $75,000,” Alston said. “So if someone is paying $700 each month in rent, we can get them in their own home for the same price. Who

wouldn’t want to own a home rather than rent - if it doesn’t cost them more.” Alston said East Texas Homes is able to keep costs low by building in areas like Gladewater where property prices are reasonable and construction costs like city

water tap fees are low. Another key for ETH is they offer buyers private financing. Alston explained that privatte financing allows people with less-than-perfect credit the opportunity to get into a home, which then allows Continued on Page 10

Driver just thankful no one was hurt

75th Anniversary Pearl Harbor facts At 7:55 a.m. Hawaii time (1:55 p.m. CST) on December 7, 1941, Japanese fighter planes attacked the U.S. base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, launching one of the deadliest attacks in American history. The assault, which lasted less than two hours, claimed the lives of more than 2,400 people, wounded 1,000 more, and damaged or destroyed nearly 20 American ships and more than 300 airplanes. Almost half of the casualties at Pearl Harbor occurred on the naval battleship USS Arizona, which was hit four times by Japanese bombers. As we commemorate the anniversary of this “date which will live in infamy,” as President Franklin D. Roosevelt described it on December 8, 1941, explore five little-known facts about USS Arizona and the attack that plunged America into war.

By Jim Bardwell Kimberly Brown Huckfeldt is seeking answers. Who threw a large chunk of solid concrete at her windshield while driving down US 80 and why didn’t local police come to help her and her 6-year-old special needs daughter when called? It all happened the night of Nov. 22 as she and her daughter were driving west on US 80 towards Big Sandy after shopping at Brookshire’s in Gladewater. “As I left the city limits I remember taking into my thoughts how the wind increased, due to a storm coming in the area.,” Huckfeldt recalled. “As I continued on I noted to myself the leaves and empty plastic bags blowing across the road and just past the rodeo grounds someone had lost a full white kitchen bag of trash on the side of the road. I also noticed how dark out it was and that I was the only car out driving.” Huckfeldt said what happened next as she neared the area of US 80 where the speed limit increases to 70 mph shocked and scared her. “Out of nowhere, like a bomb, the windshield exploded. Somehow my reflexes saw something whitish flash into view and I flinched, closing my eyes and then turning my face towards my left shoulder as the glass sand blasted both me and my little girl.” Huckfeldt said her first thought was for her daughter’s safety “did she get injured, I know that I was covered in glass dust and pieces but lucky no cuts or injuries, however I couldn’t check on her yet, we hadn’t even come to a complete stop.” Huckfeldt said she managed to stay in control of the car and slowed down pulling to the shoulder of the highway. She said both of them were covered in glass and were in complete shock - but both were safe. But where did the concrete come from? Huckfeldt and her daughter were the only vehicles on the highway, so it couldn’t have been thrown up by a passing car or truck. Why would someone throw such a dangerous object at her car? “I had no doubts that there wasn’t one single car, bag, or leaf in, or on either shoulder of the highway, nor was there anything

in the air being blown by the wind, no overpasses or overhanging tree branches,” Huckfeldt explained. She thought maybe she had collided with a deer that leaped to avoid the impact and hit the windshield. “I could tell that whatever it was only impacted the windshield. I just couldn’t make any sense to what happened,” she remembered. “My next thought was ‘Oh dear God’ please don’t let it be a person I hit and somehow just didn’t see them.” She described the impact as “deafening and explosive,” with the windshield shattered and an inward dent the size of a person’s head occurred directly above her steering wheel. Continued on Page 10

SEE YOU AT THE PARADE THURSDAY

1. Twenty-three sets of brothers died aboard USS Arizona. There were 37 confirmed pairs or trios of brothers assigned to USS Arizona on December 7, 1941. Of these 77 men, 62 were killed, and 23 sets of brothers died. Only one full set of brothers, Kenneth and Russell Warriner, survived the attack; Kenneth was away at flight school in San Diego on that day and Russell was badly wounded but recovered. Both members of the ship’s only father-and-son pair, Thomas Augusta Free and his son William Thomas Free, were killed in action. Though family members often served on the same ship before World War II, U.S. officials attempted to discourage the practice after Pearl Harbor. However, no official regulations were established, and by the end of the war hundreds of brothers had fought—and died¬—together. The five Sullivan brothers of Waterloo, Iowa, for instance, jointly enlisted after learning that a friend, Bill Ball, had died aboard USS Arizona; Their only condition upon enlistment was that they be assigned to the same ship. In November 1942, all five siblings were killed in action when their light cruiser, USS Juneau, was sunk during the Battle of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Continued on Page 10

Gladewater is lighting up the night with this year’s parade theme, “Night of Lights.” The Christmas Parade, set for Dec. 8 at 6 p.m., will feature floats, marching bands, classic cars, EMS vehicles and a visit from the Mayor of the North Pole himself, Santa Claus! Plus, there’ll be free hot chocolate provided by Gladewater National Bank and much more! It’s sure to be a Ho, Ho, Holiday good time for the entire family. At the conclusion of the parade, everyone is invited to First United Methodist Church’s Jeter Hall located at 217 Quitman Street, where the winners for the Christmas Parade and Window Decorating Contest for downtown businesses will be announced.

Page 10, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016

Driver just thankful no one was hurt Continued from Page 1

“My heart sunk. I began to cry and plead with God, I had to go back and be sure,” she recalled. As she headed back towards Gladewater, not sure where the incident precisely happened, then spotted “a patch of scattered rocks appearing all shapes and sizes up to size of fair slice of birthday cake. The sight of this debris undoubtedly not there before or after the impact and therefore the exact spot the incident occurred.” “Suddenly my thoughts and emotions shifted to fear and confusion. Who and Why would or could anyone deliberately set out to pitch rocks at passing cars. Were there other cars that got hit or was I the first of many to get hit? I didn’t know what I should do next, and the fear I felt was unnerving and now feeling in fear for both our lives, I sped up passing the scene kinda ducking down not knowing if anyone was still there, and if so, would they throw rocks at us again or run off?” Once she felt safe, Huckfeldt pulled to the side of the road near the Gladewater Memorial Park Cemetery and called 9-11 and waited for the Gladewater police to arrive and help her and her daughter. “I took pictures of the inside of the windshield, then a friend came and helped us,” she explained. “My phone rang 15-20 minutes later, a call from dispatch, stating that a Gladewater

officer had drove out to the rodeo grounds and did not see me anywhere. I said, that he had not gone far enough, that I was just over a small hill, in which we were the same distance from each other just over this small hill between us. I said, that I’m standing by my car, looking at the flashing caution lights at the intersection adjacent to the rodeo. She informed me that I was out of their jurisdiction and they could not come help me.” She said her call was transferred to Upshur County Sheriff’s Office which sent a state trooper to the scene. “At this point I am shook to my soul with extreme concern, that my daughter and I were very very fortunate not to have lost our lives,” she recalled. As to why Gladewater police transferred the call to Upshur County Sheriff dispatch, Gladewater Police Chied Rob Vine said “As a general rule, we do not respond to calls for service outside of the city limits of Gladewater. We will, however, respond as an assisting agency to locations outside of our city limits if we are requested to do so by another law enforcement agency (i.e. Gregg or Upshur County), however these responses are typically limited to locations not far past our city limits and calls where a quick response would be appropriate and/or necessary. Sometimes either Gregg or Upshur County may not have a deputy close and may have a longer than normal expected response time so they will call and request we respond to a

location close to our city and stand by until their deputy arrives.” A similar situation occurred a few months earlier east of Gladewater’s city limits on US 80, when Suzanne Bardwell’s car windshield was suddenly hit by a large object - causing an indention about the size of a grapefruit. Bardwell said there were no other vehicles around at the time the object came out of nowhere and struck her car. “There were no cars anywhere near me,” Bardwell said. “I thought that it had to come from the woods because there was nowhere else it could have come from. If anyone else has had a similar experience they need to let the Gladewater Police Department, or agency in the jurisdiction it happened know about it. This needs to be stopped before someone is seriously injured or killed.”

Aaron and Mike Alston show off one of their new homes being built in Gladewater.

Continued from Page 1 them to buld their credit rating so they can refinance with a local bank in three for four years.” Alston said more housing, results in more people and that is what retailers look for when planning to expand into an area. “From the moment I got to Gladewater, I was told that we could not gain a retail footprint,” Melancon said. “Retail is the next step, we must first focus on residential housing. We began that process with the Certificate of Occupancy, but we are also wanting to encourage new development as well. Once we have the residential rooftops, retail will follow. This is all part of a greater roadmap for our long-term sustainability as a community that will weather the booms and busts of the turbulent oil economy.” Alston said if ETH’s project is succesful, then he sees no reason why more homes couldn’t be sprouting up in the now cleared lots throughout the city, adding “Gladewater is much more business-friendly.” “This is absolutely a win for the City of Gladewater, as well as all taxing entities,” Melancon said. “Most importantly, it is a win for taxpayers. As we grow our value within the current footprint, we will be able to harness more revenue while releasing the burden on taxpayers individually. It has been a pleasure working with Mr. Alston and the many other developers who have researched our city. And I can assure them that doing business with Gladewater is good business.”

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Christmas elves Candy and Gil Maroney were caught helping Santa out with First United Methodist Church’s Christmas Blessing Project which supports the needs of Angel Tree and needy children in the greater Gladewater area. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

The University of Texas Tyler Meadows Gallery is hosting the university’s annual BFA Student Exhibition through Dec. 16. Eight undergraduate art students’ work is featured including Gladewater’s Laminda Miller’s paper and ceramic sculpture. The gallery is located in the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. Hours are 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment. Miller exhibited her work in this past year’s Art Stroll. Her work was exhibited at the Gymfinity location. Courtesy Photo

Builders finding Gladewater ‘business friendly’

Help Us Make Sure Every Child Has A Gift This Christmas! Drop off your new unwrapped toys at the Gladewater Mirror - 211 N. Main St. - by Friday, Dec. 9th and we will get them to Gladewater’s Manna House for distribution to local families in need.

Bring a smile to a child’s face!

Mary ID#: A34129469 Pyr-x Gender: F Age: 1.5 Weight: 56 lbs

Barry ID#: A34092719 Yorkie-x Gender: M Age: 10 Weight: 9 lbs

Anna ID#: A34104188 Anatolian Shep-x Gender: F Age: 7 months Weight: 26.6 lbs

Juan ID#: A33919559 Bullmastiff-X Gender: M Age: 2 Weight: 64 lbs

Page 6, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016

District 8-3A hands out All-District Honors

The White Oak Roughnecks and the Sabine Cardinals were well represented on the District 8-3A Division I All-District football team. Local players named as superlatives were White Oak’s quarterback, Heath Hood was named as the district’s Offensive MVP and his teammate, Brandon Cook was named the district’s GISD Tecnology Director demonstrated some of the Defensive MVP. Kason latest virtual reality gaming with the assistance of Kienzie from White Oak was GHS Student of the Month Clint Starling at last week’s chosen as Utility Player of the Rotary meeting. Bateman gave a brief history of the Year. Sabine’s Collin Keifer developing technology for Rotary members while was chosen as the Offensive member Larry Clemons and Starling tried their hands Lineman of the Year. Sabine’s at the VR gaming. Eli Morris and White Oak’s Photo By Suzanne Bardwell Conner Weeks received Special Team honors for the district. T. Q. Jackson from Jefferson was named as the league’s Most Valuable Player. The Bulldogs’ Trey Hodge was named as the Offensive Newcomer of the Year and teammate, Dee Mitchell picked up the Defensive Newcomer of the Year. Jefferson’s Taylor Smith was the Defensive Lineman of the Year. Other earning superlative recognition were Utility Players: Seth Lathrop (Redwater); Jacob Bobbitt (New Boston), Mo McEntire (Hughes Springs) and The old church at Roden and Ragland Streets is in the Jefferson’s Kylan Thomas. As last stages of demolition and cleanup dramatically Special Teams Players: Jaylon enhancing this area near Weldon Elementary Huff (New Boston), Dedrick School. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell Hill (Hughes Springs) and Josh

Kellogg (Jefferson. Voting was conducted by the district’s coaches, and Jefferson’s coaching staff was the District 8-3A Division I Coaching Staff of the Year. FIRST TEAM - OFFENSE Quarterback: River Bennett, Sabine; Running back: Damien Hines, Jefferson, Connor Hearron, White Oak, Adam Caudle, Sabine, Peyton Davis, Redwater; Fullback: Deandre Dedmon, New Boston; Glenn George, Sabine; Wide Receiver: Maurice Rudd, Jefferson; Max Kutch, White Oak, Kason Kienzle, White Oak, Lavoundrick Vaughn, Redwater, Samuel Sanchez, New Boston; Zach Anderson, Hughes Springs; Line: Dawson Cunneen, White Oak; Carter Wheat, White Oak; Jon-Michael McKinney, Sabine; Taylor Williams, Sabine; Austin Jones, Redwater; Colton Bradford, Redwater; Cole McCool, New Boston; Hunter Brabham, Hughes Springs; Todd Polver, Jefferson; Dylan Polver, Jefferson; Tight end: Nolan Owens, Sabine; Grant Hickerson, Redwater; Tyler Graham, New Boston. First Team - DEFENSE L i n e : C a l e b Wi n c h e r, Redwater; Lonnie Hurd, New Boston; Tony Kemp, Hughes Springs; Alijuan

Rice, Jefferson; Damien Hines, Jefferson; Jaylon Jeffery, White Oak; Cheyenne Compton, Sabine; Linebacker: Caleb Hampton, White Oak; Tanner Murphy, Jefferson; Chase Reeves, White Oak; Kobe Renfro, Sabine; Mason M c C l o s k e y, R e d w a t e r ; Defensive back: Kepha Luster, Jefferson; Antonio Castiglione, White Oak, Nick Carter, Redwater; Dee Black, Jefferson; Punter: Nolan Owens, Sabine; Peyton Davis, Redwater; Kicker: Landon Fuquay, Jefferson. SECOND TEAM - OFFENSE Quarterback: Phillip Sissons, New Boston; Running back: Bryce Johnston, Hughes Springs; Tryon Williams, Jefferson; Dallas Reeves, White Oak; Nick Carter, Redwater; Fullback: Bo McEntire, Hughes Springs; Austin Warlick, Redwater; Wide Receiver: Kepha Luster, Jefferson; Elijah Trest, White Oak; Joe Hendrix, Redwater; Jacob Bobbitt, New Boston; Brady McEntire, Hughes Springs; Line: Cole Hobbs, Sabine; Tanner Foster, Sabine; Dylan Roberts, Redwater, Ben Culp, Redwater; Trenton Davis, New Boston; Bryce Green, New Boston; Harrison Reagan, Hughes Springs; Trace Camp, Hughes Springs; Jaren Kelly, Jefferson; Alijuan Rice, Jefferson.

SECOND TEAM - DEFENSE Line: Hunter Harrison, Redwater; Cole McCool, New Boston; Deandre Dedmon, New Boston; Jaraylon Jones, Hughes Springs; Cleivlend Williams, Jefferson; Elijah Trest, White Oak; Slate Wiseman, Sabine; Linebacker: Tyler Dewitt, Redwater; Clark Black, Hughes Springs; Jordan Randle, Jefferson; Stancio Battles, New Boston; Defensive back: Kason Kienzle, White Oak; T Taylor, Sabine; Lavoundrick Vaughn, Redwater; Jacob Bobbitt, New Boston; Alex Bruce, Hughes Springs; Punter: Kason Kienzle, White Oak; Kicker: Josh Trice, Sabine; Joe Hendricks, Redwater. HONORABLE MENTION Redwater: John Michael Russ, Wayde Moody, Trevor Oakes, Colt Bradford, James Viatkus, Seth Lathrop; Sabine: Mauro Gallegos, Austin Bonner, Cameron Furrh, Sam Longhofer; White Oak: Antonio Castiglione, Kyle Berry, Jake Sears, Johnny Kelley, Dawson Cunneen, Zach Maly, Adrian Snyder, Connor Hearron, Max Kutch; Jefferson: K’Von Smith, Jacari Mosley, Rocky Cunningham, Spencer Perkins, Josh Kellog, Trace Smith, Maurice Rudd; Hughes Springs: Colton Tigert, Sean Starks, Zachary Pilgrim, Dedrick Hill; New Boston: Hayden Branson, Jon House, Deaundre Robinson.

The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2016, Page 9

Obituarties LEWIS EDWARD “ED” JONES

Memorial services for Lewis Edward “Ed” Jones, 69, of Gladewater will be held 1 p.m. Saturday December 17, 2016 in the chapel of McWhorter Funeral Home. Ed which he was known by to his friends and family was born January 11, 1947 to Lewis Dotson and Janetta Marie Jones and passed away December 13, 2016 at his home in Gladewater. He was a lifelong resident of Gladewater and a 1965 graduate of Gladewater High, a member of First Baptist Church in Gladewater, attended Hillcrest Baptist Hospital School of Nursing in Waco, He met and married the love of his life Jill Hogan in Tyler on April 14, 1984. Ed was a Registered Nurse and retired after 35 years of service in the medical field. He trained under open heart surgeons Dr. Michael E. DeBakey and Dr. Denton Cooley in Houston, He assisted in setting up Heart Cath labs at UTHSC Tyler and Providence Hospital in Waco, Worked as Assistant Director or Director of Surgery at Longview Regional, Roy H. Laird Memorial, Henderson Memorial, Gladewater, and Mother Frances Hospitals. Mr. Jones became a Mason at Masonic Lodge #92 in Waco, TX and was a member of the Masonic Lodge #854 in Gladewater. He enjoyed spending time with his family, woodworking in the shop, making fudge, watching and reading about history especially the Kennedy family. Honorary Pallbearers will be James Smith, Alan Martin, Chuck Tant, Marc Thur, and Lynn Hogan. Ed is preceded in death by his parents and Father in law John E. Hogan. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Jill Hogan Jones; daughters Stephanie Jones and Andrea Jones Deary also her husband Adam; grandchildren Colten Jones, Cory Jones, Brendon Deary, and Keagan Deary; sisters Janetta Owens and Paula Smith also her husband James; mother in law Della Hogan; brother in law Lynn Hogan; sister in law Brenda Hogan; numerous nieces and nephews. Ed was also known as “Marie’s Favorite.” If so desired Ed would have wanted donations to be sent to the Shriners Children Hospital in Shreveport ATTN: Donations 3100 Samford Ave. Shreveport LA 71103 Please visit Ed’s on-line register book at www.mcwhorterfh. com to leave a memory for the family.

Mr. Brewer was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, George and Flavy Brewer, and two sisters, Helen Hesser and Hettie Evans. The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Visiting Angels and Hospice of East Texas for the compassion and care given to Herald.

FAIRY (PEGGY) ROMINES

Fairy (Peggy) Romines, 88, of Mesquite, Texas, passed away on December 15 2016. Peggy was born in Lonoke, Arkansas on January 28, 1928 to Henry and Eura Hutchings. She graduated from Gladewater High School. Peggy was married to Robert N. Romines on December 28, 1946. They were married 52 years. Peggy worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone in Midland for over 35 years. She also enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert in 1998. Peggy is survived by her daughter, Robin Wilson, her grandchildren, Tara and Robert Walraven, and her great grandchildren, Brennan and Ashley Walraven. The funeral services were held Monday, December 19, 2016 at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend David Harwood officiating. Interment will follow at the Resthaven Memorial Park. Online condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com Services are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home 801, Andrews Hwy, Midland, Texas 79701 (432)683-5555.

Cornelius King was ringing the bell for Red Kettle donations for the Salvation Army at Brookshire’s last Friday morning. The Salvation Army was founded in England in 1865 and is one of the most effective charities meeting needs throughout East Texas and in over 106 countries. It is rated highly by watchdog organizations such as Give Wisely. The organization depends heavily on the annual holiday kettle donations to support its programs and ministries. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

CHARLES “HAROLD” BREWER

Graveside services for Charles Harold Brewer, 74, of White Oak were 3:00 p.m. Saturday, December 17, 2016, at the Old White Oak Cemetery in White Oak. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater. Mr. Brewer passed away Thursday, December 15, 2016 in Longview. Mr. Brewer was born January 18, 1942 in Gladewater to the late Jack and Katie Brewer. He served in the United States Air Force. Mr. Brewer was a member of the Gladewater Masonic Lodge # 852. He was retired from Stroh’s Brewery after many years of service as a Warehouse Operator. Mr. Brewer also owned and operated Brewer’s Furniture in White Oak with his wife Lois. Charles enjoyed collecting memorabilia and antique cars; he was especially proud of his 1955 T-Bird. Charles was a White Oak Roughneck fan and he and Lois never missed an opportunity to watch the teams play. He served on the White Oak School Board for 20 years. He will be dearly missed by all the loving family and friends he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lois Brewer; son Tony Brewer and wife, Kerry of White Oak; daughter Lisa McMichael and husband, Randy of Flower Mound; sister Jackie Baese of Hallsville; three grandchildren Allison Brewer of Longview, Matt McMichael and wife, Heather of Grapevine and Josh McMichael of Seattle, Washington as well as many other loving family and friends.

Abbott lays wreaths at Texas State Cemetery

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott attended and delivered remarks at the inaugural wreath-laying ceremony for Wreaths Across America Day at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin. Following the ceremony, Governor Abbott laid wreaths at the graves of three Medal of Honor recipients buried in the Texas State Cemetery – Brigadier General Robert Galer, Sergeant Jason Logan and Second Lieutenant George O’Brien. “I am honored to be a part of the inaugural Wreaths Across America event at our state’s cemetery,” said Governor Abbott. “We’re called on today and every day to remember our fallen heroes. We must remember their names, we must remember their lives and we must remember their sacrifice, because we are each entrusted with their legacy of faith in this great nation. May we always remember our troops in harm’s way still today, and may we never forget the price they pay so that we can be free.”

Demolition approved for six houses, request for equipment denied for now By Jim Bardwell The Gladewater City Council voted Thursday night to begin the process of demolishing six dilapidated houses and cleaning up the lots for potential development. Two houses on the hit list were spared after family members of the property owners asked for extra time to show the city they were trying to restore the homes. The properties saved are located at 901 Nelwyn and 1005 Kay Drive, while homes at 512 Wood, 1000 N. Culver, 2810 Hendricks, 2812 Hendricks, 1007 W. Pacific, and 1100 Phillips Springs were axed following Thursday night’s public hearing and council vote. The council was asked to consider spending about $250,000 worth of vehicles and equipment to help employees do their job better and Gladewater City Manager Theo Melancon even presented a power-point presentation showing the needs. But the council voted to keep

the city’s checkbook closed for now and asked Melancon to do more research into the equipment needs and fit it in the current budget, which just started Oct. 1.

ter Memorial Park Cemetery. The bid was the middle one, with the others being $19,000 and $59,000. The council did not believe the job could be done for just $19,000.

The council was forced to hike taxes 9-cent to fund current city services and took $195,000 from the Gladewater Economic Development Corporation to make ends meet. So, spending more than $250,000 on non-emergency items at this time was not a popular idea. Melancon was asking: two backhoes for $64,500; 2 or 3 utility service trucks up to $80,000; 2 police pursuit vehicles up to $80,000 and 2 lawn mowers up to $12,000.

The council also selecting James D. White Electric of White Oak as the vendor for a SCADA system for the city’s water plant upgrade. A SCADA system is an assemblage of computer and communications equipment designed to control wastewater treatment and municipal water treatment systems.

In other business, the council approve a blanket permit for the annual MLK Parade to be held January 20 in downtown Gladewater, passed a resolution authorizing application for financial assistance from the Texas Water Development Board for utility system improvements, and awarding a bid of $30,000 for the mowing of the Gladewa-

The council approved a lease agreement with Tommy and Penny Hayes, who are operating the 5H Bait & Country Store at Lake Gladewater. The couple will handle the cleanup around the swimming area and boat ramps in exchange for the store and house rental. The city placed a value of $1,200 per month on the work. The council appointed Mary Ann Cumby and Judy Banner to the Library Board, but held off making any appointment to the Main Street Board.

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Recycling 2nd Saturday of month at City Hall

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Voters keep status quo on city council

HAROLD WELLS

LEON WATSON

LANA NIEMANN

Gladewater voters decided they like the city council as is for now and reelected mayor Harold Wells, Place 2 Councilman Leon Watson and Place 3 Councilwoman Lana Niemann. Only Watson’s race was close, as he edged out challenger Larry Seery by just 10 votes - 263 to 253. Seery told the Mirror Monday he did not plan to ask for a recount. In the other races - Wells defeated challenger Mark Carpenter, 341 to 193, while Niemann’s 318 votes outdistanced her two opponents by a wide margin. Mark May wound up with 165 votes and Johnathon Allen had 43. Election results will be canvassed by the city council on May 16 at 6 p.m.. In East Mountain, Mayor Neal Coulter hung on to his seat on the East Mountain City Council by just three votes - defeating two challengers. Coulter wound up with 59 votes, while Gari Bellis had 56 and TD Dollison had 38. Two council seats were also up for grabs Saturday. And long-time councilman Charles Medlin won’t be returning, as he lost his bid for re-election. Medlin had been a councilman since the city incorporated in the 1980s. Marc Covington earned the most votes with 98, followed by Danny Medlin with 63, Lester Glover with 60 and Charles Medlin with 53. The top two vote getters will serve.

Runoff early voting set for May 16-20

BY PHILLIP WILLIAMS Correspondent GILMER-Early voting opens Monday in Upshur County for the statewide May 24 Republican and Democratic parties’ runoffs. All such voting will be held daily from Monday through Friday, May 20, at county Election Administrator Lory Harle’s second-floor office in the Upshur County Courthouse. It is located on the downtown Gilmer square. Voting hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, May 16, and Thursday, May 19, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the other three days. The only two local races are on the Republican ballot. Sheriff Anthony Betterton faces Longview police officer Larry Webb in Betterton’s bid for reelection to a fifth term, while two deputies in the county tax office, Luana Howell and Mary Anne Farrow, Continued on Page 3

Vol. 75, No. 19

1 Section, 12 pages

Prayers for our nation

By Suzanne Bardwell The local observance of the National Day of Prayer was held last Thursday at noon at the downtown War Memorial with the theme “Wake Up America”. North Loop Church of Christ pastor Joe Chase gave the welcome and introduction for the annual event. “There is no such thing as a Christian nation,” Chase said. “There is just a nation filled with Christians.” Chase said that it was time for Christians to do double duty and urged the crowd to “beseech God today to make our character what it should be.” Mayor Harold Wells who gave a National Day of Prayer Proclamation acknowledged the need for reliance on God and referenced the historic example of presidents Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. “We must continue to pray for the sake of peace and for our nation,” Wells said. He also noted that despite America’s great ethnic and religious diversity, “We reaffirm that we are one nation under God.” Brother Bailey Harris, pastor of First Baptist Church brought the invocation and explained the purpose of the annual event. Continued on Page 12

50¢

Gladewater man killed in truck wreck By Phillip Williams Correspondent A 47-year-old Gladewater man was killed in a one-vehicle accident on U.S. 271 between Gilmer and Gladewater on Friday, said Upshur County Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace Wyone Manes. Manes said she pronounced Jason L. Hall dead at the scene in the rural West Mountain community south of Gilmer after his pickup ran into a wooded area and struck a tree. The site is just north of the intersection with Camp Road. The Texas Department of Public Safety said the accident is thought to have occurred at 7:40 a.m., but that it apparently went undiscovered for several hours. Investigating DPS Trooper Brandon Love arrived at the scene at 3:26 p.m., Manes said. The victim’s sister-in-law, Cindy Hall, said Monday the vehicle was located by using the app on his wife’s cell phone after the wife repeatedly tried to call him, and the calls went straight to voice mail. Cindy Hall also said Jason Hall had “blood sugar problems,” and that he had told her he was diabetic. Hall, a night worker at Walmart in Gilmer, had gotten off work at 7:30 a.m. and “I guess he went to sleep on the way home,” Manes said. His southbound 2000 Ford F-150 pickup ran off the left side of the roadway before entering the woods, she said. Hall, who was alone, was wearing a shoulder belt, the judge said. He had talked to his wife by phone just before getting off work, and his wife then went on to work, said Manes. East Mountain, and possibly West Mountain, firefighters cut down several trees in order to remove the vehicle from the scene, Manes said. The body was taken to Rader Funeral Home in Longview.

Historic Rosedale Cemetery community picnic set Can’t We Fix This? By Suzanne Bardwell Rosedale Cemetery has a storied history and a unique place in the story of Gladewater. That story and place will be celebrated Saturday with a picnic on the grounds beginning at 10:30 a.m. The cemetery’s history has been honored with a historical marker which traces the origins of Rosedale. It reads: “When John Kettle Armstrong and his wife Sarah bought 160 acres here in 1844 they were among the first settlers. Sarah died in 1856 and Armstrong set aside this tract for a cemetery. Tradition says the Armstrong slaves were interred outside the grounds. After Armstrong’s death in 1860 his second wife Margaret Fisher married a Mr. Stewart. For years the Armstrongs and Stewarts allowed everyone to use the graveyard which was called “Stewart Cemetery”. After the railroad started the town of Gladewater a cemetery association organized in 1911 and changed the name of the graveyard to ‘Rosedale’. An additional five acres were

purchased from J.K. Armstrong and his wife. ‘Permits’ for burial were sold instead of lots. When the East Texas Oil Boom began this policy allowed all surface and mineral rights to remain with the association. In 1932 two oil wells were drilled on the burial grounds. The association used the profits to build a caretaker’s cottage, roads, a rock fence and to landscape the grounds. In 1973 after 41 years the wells were plugged. Still in use, the burial ground has about 265 unmarked and 750 marked graves. Many of the

older plots are covered with large red rocks.” The organizing officers in 1911 were Mrs. A.F. Beamer, president; Mrs. Will Hendrix, vice president; Mrs. L.J. Everett, secretary-treasurer; and Mrs. F.E. Stancil, comm. In 1933 officers listed on a memorial plaque were Mrs. L.J. Everett, president; Mrs. J.P. Jackson, vice president; Mrs. J.T. Jeter, seceretarytreasurer; and Mrs. F.E. Stancil, Comm. The tranquil and well maintained grounds although fronting Highway 80 are an

island of beauty. The historical markers dating from the 19th century are impressive in design and often poignant in their epitaphs. The small squares that represent the many children’s graves from around the turn of the 20th century are a reminder of the challenging times that generation faced. This cemetery is of unique beauty with towering trees that shade the area even at noon time. Community members are warmly invited to attend Saturday’s event. Annual family membership dues for Continued on Page 2

A gentleman came into the Gladewater Mirror office last week and asked us to help get this safety hazard on N. Tenery Street fixed. He said he alerted city workers to the problem over a year ago, but the problem remains and he fears children walking in the area may fall in and become injured. It looks bad and is dangerous, so - “Can’t We Fix This?”

Page 12, The Gladewater Mirror, Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Prayers for our nation Continued from Page 1

“This stands as a call for us to seek God’s guidance,” he said. “On this the 64th National Day of prayer we need to make sure that others learn from our lives how to love.” Congregational singing led by Chris Downing and Downing’s Plus included “God Bless America”, “I Need Thee Every Hour” and “Sweet Hour of Prayer”. Pastor Ray Boulter of First Christian Church led the prayer for the nation that included praise for blessings and beseeching God for forgiveness for the historic mistreatment of Native Americans and the institution of slavery. “We also pray for freedom

of religion, not freedom from religion,” he prayed. Pastor Dean Simmons of the Church of the Nazarene in his prayer for churches prayed, “It is not the name over your door but what Christ is doing in our hearts. Everyone is commanded to share the Gospel.” Restoring Joy Ministries Director and pastor Charli Caraway gave heartfelt intercession for America’s families and the institution of marriage and Gladewater Police Chief Rob Vine led a sincere prayer for those who govern and the government. In conclusion, Lisa Wilburn led those attending in the Lord’s Prayer. The scripture for the event was Isaiah 58:1a “Shout it

North Loop Church of Christ pastor Joe Chase gave the welcome and introduction for the Day of Prayer. aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet.” Serving as color guard for

the event were members of Welcome Home Soldiers! who also organize greetings

MISTY DAWN HAWLEY

Beautification Board member and Vital Earth coowner Terrie Hammer worked last week on the pots downtown by planting native plants which are drought and pest resistant. The Beautification project will continue until all the pots are filled. Vital Earth donated the potting soil for the project. Downtown merchants are urged to help keep an eye on the pots keeping them clean of debris and watering when needed. Photo By Suzanne Bardwell

Misty Dawn was born in Gladewater, on February 10, 1977, to Ruby Henry and the Late Wardell Hawley. At an early age, she professed the Lord and became a member of the Union Temple CME Church where she remained until her demise. She graduated with honors in the top ten percentile of her class of 1995. She was a cheerleader and very active in her school. Later, she pursued her education beginning at Kilgore Junior College where she was a cheerleader also. She graduated with with honors from Kilgore Junior College. She continued on to The University of North Texas in Denton, TX where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Journalism and Political Science. Her Master’s Degree was obtained in Emerging Media and Communications, received at UTD. Misty’s career began at KETK in Tyler, as a Producer and later, she went to FOX 4 in Dallas as a writer for the news. After FOX 4, she went on to Produce at Wize Trade; The University of Dallas in the Broadcasting Department; and currently she was employed as a Communications Manager for UTD. She is preceded in death by her brother Anthony Freeman, maternal grandparents - grandmother Willie Williams and grandfather Wilbert Williams SR. Loving memories will be cherished and mourned by her: Mother Ruby Henry; Brother, Keithan Freeman; Sisters, Marsha Hawley, Robyn Fort (Tyrone); Her Rascals, Tyrone II, Chasity, Shayla, Skylar; her god-daughter, Savannah; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, many other relatives and loving friends. Active Pallbearers: Karl Hass, Jeff Cooley, Chris Sale, Derek Hughes, Steven Sosinski, Kenneth Horton, Hubert Harper, and Jenon Derrick. Honorary Pallbearers: Wilbert Williams, James Williams,

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the national observance visit www.NationalDayof Prayer. org online.

Willie Williams, Walter Williams, Lendell Hawley, Lander Roberts, Tyrone Fort II, Tony Williams, Stevens Williams, Timothy Williams and David Nickleberry. It is written in the Book of Lamentations, Chapter 3, Verses 22-23 that the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; Great is His faithfulness. We, the Williams Family, would like to personally thank each of you for joining us in Celebrating the Home Going of our Beloved Misty Dawn. Thirty-nine years doesn’t seem like a long time. But it was just long enough for Misty to establish an everlasting relationship with God. A relationship that has afforded her not only a new home in Glory, but a new wardrobe that showcases a pair of golden slippers that take the place of that closet full of shoes. I won’t stand before you to list all of her academic accomplishments or her employment history, because as we look around the building we can see how her infectious smile and her inner beauty has brought us all here to just say, “Thank you God , for the privilege of knowing such an Awesome Angel”. The book of Ecclesiastes talks about seasons, a time for every purpose under heaven. Although it saddens us deeply, but this is Misty’s season. A time to be plucked for the trials and struggles of this life. Leaving family and friends who loved her dearly. To reap eternal peace, the peace that James talked about that passes all understanding. A peace that has allowed her to enter into her eternal rest. We love you Misty and even though our hearts are heavy, we have this hope that if we do not become weary in well doing, in due season we too shall reap our eternal harvest, if we faint not. Until we meet again, this is not good bye; it’s “I’ll see you later”.

MRS BETTY VAUGHN

Mrs. Betty Vaughn, 65, of Gilmer, Texas passed away on Saturday, April 23, 2016. She was born on July 26, 1950 in Pittsburg, Texas. Mrs. Vaughn worked for Texas Home Health. Mrs. Vaughn is survived by numerous family members and friends. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer. Please leave online condolences at www.croleyfh.net.

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