Business & Community Journal --- Memorial Day Edition, 2010
w w w. M y C o u n t y - L i n e . c o m
Volume 3 Issue 37
Speak up, join the discussion, take part!
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
Memorial Day Edition
JUNE,
2010
vol.3 Issue 37
On The Cover:
The Christen Eagle was developed in the 1970’s as akit-built aircraft by Frank Christensen for competition, advanced aerobatic training and sport cross-country flying. It’s one of my favorite aircraft. Photo by mwnorris
In This Issue:
Memorial Day Growing Up Small Town Law of the Land Meet Melissa Morgan Daily Devotional Ranger Library Tumbleweed Smith Ranger Fly-In & AirShow Clint Coffee Eastland Chamber Eastland County 9-12 Out and About Life Planning Issues Gov. Rick Perry Treasure Hunters Out of the Box From the Backside
More on the Web...
June First Edition Deadline -- 05/28/2010 June Mid-Month Deadline -- 06/11/10
Memorial Day T
Contents
hree years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans -- the Grand Army of the Republic -established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. ocal springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Miss., April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well. n 1966, Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed and residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo’s claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events. y the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities. t was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays. o ensure the sacrifices of America ’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging and coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day and the National Moment of Remembrance. he National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.” ~from US Dept. of Vet. Affairs website
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The County Line Published by Mike Norris Wolverine Design
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Mike &rris Ruth No
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Growing
Up Small Town, Mike Norris
Send comments to: smalltown@mycounty-line.com
What are we doing for the Summer?
Well folks, it’s officially summer time! The kiddos are out of school, the temps are bouncing all over 80’s and 90’s, and we’ve cranked up all three air conditioner units at the old homestead. (not all at once mind you!) So now what? Well, I’ve been entertaining myself by following the oil spill fiasco and asking myself why those drilling rigs don’t just have floating spill barriers anchored around them 24/7 as soon as they go online. Seems like a no-brainer to me that since oil tends to float on top of water that a few thousand feet of floating plastic “booms” would make a nice catch-all. Even if you left a few hundred feet open for service ships to come and go, if there was a major spill a couple of guys in small boats could close up the gap and trap the oil right there. Oh I know what you’re thinking -- the oil leak is happening at the bottom of the ocean, not at the surface. Well, you’re right. Maybe the failsafe should be near the surface instead of at the bottom of the ocean. That’s just for starters, but if that’s not good enough for you then it looks to me like the broken pipe wasn’t under much pressure... evidenced by the fact that the oil immediately began its upward “float” to the surface rather than shooting out at high velocity for several feet before billowing upwards...and if that were the case, then a flexible hose with a larger diameter than the broken pipe could have
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been slipped over the end of the pipe and the oil could have been captured rather easily. Maybe the oil and gas industry needs to invest in super large “barf” bags to cup over broken pipes when all hell breaks loose. I’m just saying. I’ve also been watching how the DOW average has fallen off a cliff but nobody seems too concerned... even with the most suspicious single-day trading hick-up that’s ever happened when the DOW fell nearly 1,000 points in less than 15-minutes on an otherwise slightly normal trading day. How odd is it that it doesn’t seem to rate too high on the list of “The more you know...” news items? Call me a conspiracy theorist, but somewhere out there is a little piece of computer source code that knows what happened, and why. And somebody wrote that code. I’m just saying. And one other thing I’ve noticed is how congress is gung-ho on reforming the financial industry... and they’re taking it very seriously too...but not enough to get on the airwaves and talk to us about it. That reminds me of something that my daughter did the other on her
first day home out of school. I had been telling her that I had to work on the paper this week and that I didn’t want to hear her asking me to go here, go there, do this or do that every 20 minutes because she was suddenly bored at home with nothing to do. So a little later that afternoon my dad shows up here at the house. I thought he just dropped by to see how things were going...nope...he came by to pick up my daughter and take her down to Nana’s house. What? “Sherrie, why didn’t you ask me before you called Nana to see if you could go down there?” “Because you told me not to ask, dad!” Well, now I know why congress won’t talk to us about their financial reform plans. We’ve made it pretty clear how we feel about their big government agenda, and just like a teenager who’s been told over and over again to stop asking for stuff they can’t have...congress has stopped asking what we think. Maybe congress should be grounded for the summer. OK, that’s enough of that. In the last issue, I wrote a little piece for the “On the Cover” page that
asked all my readers to help spread the word about The County Line. Well, I just wanted to thank you for some of the feedback that I’m already getting. Thank you! Now, here are my plans for The County Line for the summer... I need help! No, not mental help. I need contributors, sales people, delivery people, writers, photographers, layout artists, designers, website administrators, and someone to bring me ice cold tea every 30 minutes! I need staff! But here’s the catch...I need people who are wanting to volunteer! I need freebies! I need interns! Do you know a college kid or high school kid that needs soemthing to do this summer, but is willing to work for peanuts? No? I didn’t think so. Well, it was worth a try. A lady told me the other day, “I don’t see how you keep on top of what you’re doing.” Another reader told me several weeks ago, “I don’t see how you do it?” Well, the answer is Red Bull! Haha! No really. It is. OK, that’s a lie...but I did try one of the 5-hour energy drinks the other day. Not that one, a different one. It was downright tasty! In fact, if I had an intern, I would send them to the store right now for a 6900 I-20 (West-Bound Side Access Rd) Exit 349 case of them!
Ranger, TX (254)647-3800 Closed Tuesday’s Open 10am till 9pm Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat Open 10am till 3pm Sun Brisket * Sausage * Chicken * Ribs * Daily Desert
~mwnorris
If you are willing to work for peanuts, or on a commission basis, send your resume to: willworkforfree@ mycounty-line.com
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37
■ The
Law of the Land - Agricultural Law , by Doug Jordan
Oh Bury Me (Not) On The Lone Prairie: Establishing Family Cemeteries on Texas Farms and Ranches
In the famous cowboy folk song known as “The Dying Cowboy” (also known as “The Cowboy’s Lament”) sung by the likes of Roy Rogers, Tex Ritter and Johnny Cash, the following verse appears: “Oh bury me not on the lone prairie, where the coyotes howl and the wind blows free, in a narrow grave just six by three… Oh bury me not on the lone prairie.”
However forlorn this kind of interment may seem to others, a spot on the family farm or ranch might be considered by some Texans as the perfect final resting place. But before Grandpa can be buried near his favorite fishing hole on the Home Place, several state and local regulations, as well as other factors, must be considered to avoid potential violations of law, including a few that carry criminal penalties. The last thing anyone (especially Grandpa) wants is to be forced to have his remains exhumed and moved, or for a well-intentioned surviving family member to be cited for a Class A misdemeanor over his dead body. Texas Statutes Chapters 711 through 715 of the Texas Health and Safety Code were enacted to provide direction for those concerned with the establishment and operation of cemeteries. The rules for family cemeteries, as opposed to cemeteries owned and operated by “cemetery organizations” (as defined in the statutes), are relatively easy to comply with, but are not to be ignored due to the potential penalties if violated. The following is a discussion of those sections of the Code that are related to establishing family cemeteries. 1.Section 711.001 – Definitions. This section of the Code provides the statutory meaning of 28 terms used throughout Chapter 711, General Provisions Relating to Cemeteries. These defined terms include: “Cemetery” is defined as “a place that is used or intended to be used for interment, and includes a graveyard, burial park, or mausoleum.” (Emphasis added to other defined terms). “Interment” is “the permanent disposition of remains by entombment, burial, or placement in a niche.” The term “interment” is not to be confused with “inurnment,” defined as “the placement of cremated remains in an urn.” “Remains” means “either human remains or cremated remains,” with those terms defined, respectively, as “the body of a decedent” and “the bone fragments remaining after the cremation process, which may include the residue of any foreign materials that were cremated with the human remains.” It is necessary to have a clear understanding of these somewhat
morbid terms to correctly apply the regulations to the intention of the landowner. For instance, if Mr. and Mrs. Ewing want to set aside a few acres of South Fork for the family members and their pets to be buried under, or their cremated remains ceremonially spread or entombed upon (hopefully after their deaths due to natural causes), it is essential to have a working knowledge of the terminology and how to navigate the rules accordingly.
2.Sec. 711.003 - Records of Interment. This section establishes the requirement for a record to be maintained of all interments in a cemetery. The record must include: The date the remains are received; the date the remains are interred; the name and age of the person interred if those facts can be conveniently obtained; and the identity of the plot in which the remains are interred. 3.Sec. 711.008 – Location of Cemetery. This section sets minimum distance requirements outside municipal boundary lines for cemeteries to be established, based on the population of the nearest municipality. These distances range from 1 mile for small communities (populations of 5,000 to 25,000), to 5 miles for large cities (populations of at least 200,000). There are some interesting exceptions to the location rules which were undoubtedly granted for site-specific purposes and/or jurisdictions, but a general exception is allowed for cemeteries existing and operating prior to enactment of the rule (September 1, 1989). 4.Sec. 711.012 – Rules. Here the Texas Funeral Service Commission is authorized to adopt rules, establish procedures, and proscribe forms to enforce and administer various sections of the chapter relating to nonperpetual care cemeteries as defined in Sec. 711.001. Family cemeteries are normally established as non-perpetual care cemeteries, thereby eliminating the need for establishing a trust fund for maintenance. The Texas Funeral Service Commission’s website at http://www.tfsc.state. tx.us provides general information regarding family cemeteries with specific instructions on how to survey and record plats and certificates of declaration of dedication of the land with the local County Clerk’s office. (Note - it appears from a close reading of Sec. 711.034 that only cemetery organizations are required to dedicate land for cemetery purposes, but it is recommended that private family cemetery landowners follow suit and put the public on notice of the existence of a cemetery to prevent potentially unsuitable or prohibited development on adjacent property - see Sec. 714.002, Limitation on Location of Feed or Slaughter Pens Near Cemetery). 5.Sec. 711.041 – Access to Cemetery. The general public is granted ingress and egress rights to a family cemetery via routes
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Agricultural
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Law , Continued...
designated by the landowner. Visits are to be allowed during reasonable hours and only for purposes usually associated with cemetery visits. These provisions logically exclude, but can’t prevent, teenagers visiting at midnight on Halloween. 6.Sec. 711.052 – Criminal Penalties. Failure or refusal to maintain the record of interments required by Sec. 711.003 is a Class A misdemeanor. Clearly, Texas is dead serious about cemetery recordkeeping. 7.Sec. 714.001 – Depth of Graves; Criminal Penalty. This section provides for minimum burial depths based on the type of container used to hold the decedent’s body. If the container is made of impermeable material, the top surface must be at least one and one-half (1½) feet below the surface of the ground. If not made of impermeable material, the top surface of the container must be no less than two (2) feet below ground level. These requirements may be relaxed by county ordinance or rule if subsurface soil conditions or other relevant conditions so dictate. This section does not apply to interment in a sealed surface reinforced concrete burial vault. A person commits a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $200 if the person buries the body of a decedent in violation of this section or in violation of an ordinance or rule adopted under this section. Local Government Rules County governments and other quasi-governmental agencies (e.g. Lower Colorado River Authority) have only limited authority to regulate land use and establish rules related to environmental or public safety matters. These may include flood plain management, drainage, underground cabling, etc. Before having a survey conducted, it would be prudent to contact the county environmental department, the county commissioner elected from the precinct where the proposed cemetery will be located, or the county judge to determine if any rules have been instituted with regard to family cemeteries. Likewise contact the office of any other quasi-governmental agency with potential authority over use of the proposed property.
affected landowners or may terminate after a period of time under their own terms, but until such amendment or termination they remain an encumbrance on the property. In addition to deed restrictions, the real property records must also be examined to determine if there are public and private easements that may also affect the use of the subject land. Rural Texas is a spider’s web of underground pipelines, overhead electric transmission lines, and buried telephone fiber-optic cables. These easement agreements normally restrict the use of the property within the easement area. Another factor is whether the land to be converted to cemetery purposes is subject to a lien. If so, the deed of trust or other security agreement should be reviewed to determine if such a conversion would be in violation of the lien instrument. Lenders are wont to maintain certain loan-to-value ratios on their collateral, and conversion of a significant portion of your property to cemetery use might well have a negative impact on its market value. Why? Unfortunately, not everyone may be as fond of your late relatives as you are. Doug Jordan Title Examiner/ Attorney, Board Certified in Farm and Ranch Real Estate Law Security Title Company Question or comments regarding this article may be emailed to the author at: doug@securitytitleco.com
Other Factors In addition to state and local laws, there are other factors that must be considered prior to the establishment of a cemetery on private land. These are related to real property and contract law specific to the land being considered. First, an examination of the real property records of the subject land must be completed to determine if there are any deed restrictions prohibiting or limiting use of the land for cemetery purposes. A restriction of this type could have been included in a laundry list of restrictive covenants in a deed recorded decades ago and long forgotten, but still valid today. Restrictions may also be found in separately recorded instruments related to property located within rural subdivisions that exist throughout the state. These restrictions sometimes can be amended by a vote of the The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37
■ Meet
Melissa Morgan, submitted by Paula Howard
Eastland County Losing to Win Competition Plus, A Night With Melissa Morgan
LAST CHANCE!!!
Winners will be announced on KATX 97.7 fm Radio the week of the event!
The Losing to Win competition is open to all Eastland County residents. The fee is $20 dollars to sign up, and all proceeds will go towards the jackpot. Several local businesses are donating products & services to go toward the prizes for the winners. This will be a 3 month competition. It starts June 4th, and will end August 27th. Winners will be announced September 3rd. There will be three different categories; men, women, and teams. The kick off meeting will be June 4th at the Second Photo courtesy Melissa Morgan Baptist Church in Ranger, Texas. That will be the initial weigh in, your before photo will be taken, and if you have any questions you can come & ask them that ■ EMH Volunteers, Kelly Davidson night. Also, June 18th Melissa Morgan, a competitor off the reality show 4th Annual EMH Golf Tournament The Biggest Loser will be in Eastland County to speak to us about her The E.M.H. Volunteers are out in force collecting sponsor money, raffle items weight loss adventure. There will also be a question/answer session for and door prizes for the upcoming Fourth Annual E.M.H. Golf Tournament. anyone who has questions to ask her. The one-day golf tournament is on Saturday, June 5th at the Lakeside Golf Tickets for Losing to Win competitors will be $5 dollars in advance, Course. First, Second and Third place winners in each flight will receive and $10 dollars at the door. The tickets for non competitors will be $10 $$CASH$$ prizes. Door prizes and raffle items will be available throughout dollars in advance, and $15 dollars at the door. Again, proceeds from the day! A BBQ dinner will follow for all players. this event will go toward the jackpot. Come out and play for the day! For more information on the competition, or a Night with Melissa If you are in need of an entry form, you may contact Rhonda Reeves at 631Morgan call Paula Howard at 325-733-7279, Wendy Rodgers at 2545350 or Leisha Hodges at 631-5368. 647-5486, or Monica Henderson 254-442-2242. The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Daily
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Devotional, Wanda Lee Beck Skinner
Genealogy
Genealogy is an interesting hobby although some it is a curse. It can be very boring to look at someone’s family reports that contain only dates and places but I have found it makes it very interesting to have real life stories from the past to attract others into research. Several years ago my brother and I visited my uncle, Daddy’s brother and requested he take a trip over Eastland and Stephens County and show us the places that the family lived in this area. Of course, my grandfather was born in New Hope in Stephens County. We drove the county road and although it was very different than when my family lived there in the early 1900’s the uncle showed us many of the places he and his family lived. Then he would add commentary about where the aunts and uncles lived. We rounded one curve and there on the ground was a complete roof. He said it was the roof of the house they lived in so long ago. He also said that he and three brothers cleared the brush from the land and did the farm work. My grandfather had asthma and was not always able to work in the pastures and fields. The boys built the fences, barns, chicken houses and other buildings. They also had to walk a long way to school. One of his other brothers related some stories about the events of walking to and from school. I encourage you to talk with the oldest members of your family and ask questions about their youth and the way of life. It sure makes the genealogy of a family more interesting. Go prepared: tape recorder, camera, paper and pens and good clean ears. Listen closely and write it down as they talk. Go home and rewrite it while you can still read what you have written. Inspiration
Trouble Come to Help Us Grow II Corinthians 12:9-10 New King James Version “And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore
I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” No one I know has a perfect life even though some are very good at putting on a good show to others. It can be such a comfort to accept the truth that life isn’t always good, everything does not go your way and yet in the larger scheme of things, it does make sense. We can take hope in the fact that God can be praised. When troubles come and we seek God’s help and leadership we will be able to be strengthened. An additional plus is the troubles will help us realize how we need to relate to others by standing by them in their time of trouble. Psalm 139:23-24 King James Version “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” The mountain of life’s difficulties seems to grow higher every day. America faces faults along the pathway. Enemies continue to trouble our path. The question comes, “How can I help ease the burden for the American people?”Look at the above verse and ask, “Has any part of the problem been caused by me?” “Am I part of the problem or part of the solution? I believe each of us has to take responsibility in our own life and in the life of our country. The prayer of the Psalmist is one of a willing heart for God to look deep into his heart and soul to make his life good. Are you willing to do the same? Pretty scary to think about but remember God already knows you better than you know yourself. And the beauty is God loves you anyway. Search for that trait and begin to love other people. It may take a lot of time on your knees praying for God to lead and help you.
YOU Missed a Spot!!! Trace Atkins, country song writer & entertainer, said “A man should be able to walk from Louisiana to Cancun without getting his boots wet. That’s how many drilling platforms we should have in the gulf.”
Advertise with The County Line! Call (254)631-8407 The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37
■ @The
Ranger Library, Diana McCullough
Send comments to: ranger@mycounty-line.com
Texas Library Conference Last Friday, our mayor, Margaret Green, and I attended the Economic Development Sales Tax workshop in Abilene. This was a worthwhile experience, and is required, every other year. It was also expensive, $150 each, so yes, I EXPECTED it to be good. I was not disappointed, and I did take notes, and we both brought back big notebooks--so our “learning” should not be short-term. I could write more on this subject, but I need to switch gears. By the time you read this, Saturday, May 29th, will be history and so will the 2010 Memorial Day Weekend Fly-In and Airshow at the Ranger Airfield. I attended my first Airshow ever last year, and it was AWESOME. Last year we had about 96 planes and two helicopters. More biplanes are expected this year, and some are here now. Saturday is also Splash Day at our Ranger City Swimming Pool, so there’s going to be lots of fun going on in Ranger. Our Loan Star Libraries Status Update for Fiscal Year 2011 was submitted today. We will remain at Level 1, providing equal service to all Texans, at the highest rate of funding. Please don’t forget the projected budget cuts for nearly all of the Texas budget, I’m sure not forgetting. Time to “skinny-up”, tighten the belt, oh boy-- we do what we have to do! Today I called my favorite book company, Brodart. Did you know that we get a 46.5% discount (on hardback books) and we pay NO shipping and no sales tax? Even Wal-Mart cannot compete. My favorite saleslady, Enola, answered the phone. Enola is Brodart’s most personable salesperson, and I was saddened to learn that she is retiring in 29 days, but heartened that she’s excited to be a GREAT grandmother in August. The weather today in Williamsport, Pennsylvania was in the high 80’s, and they like that. (And they use expensive heating oil in the winter time. I’m so going to miss my phone friend Enola and the little trivia that she shares as we wait for the next title to load into her computer that she calls “slow”. Can you see why we relate?) Summertime is fast approaching and I only ordered books that will be released in the next three months, 16 in all, and here they are: (already released, in stock, and expected SOON) Nowhere to Run by CJ Box; The Walk by Richard Paul Evans; Innocent by Scott Turow; and Cross Roads by Fern Michaels. Releasing in June (right around the corner!) is The Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey; Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovich; Private by James Patterson; Ice Cold by Tess
Gerritsen; and Broken by Karin Slaughter. In July we can expect: Live to Tell by Lisa Gardner; The Search by Nora Roberts; Troublemaker by Janet Evanovich (Enola gave me more details on this title!); and Shadow Zone by Iris Johansen. Here’s what we are looking forward to in August: Veil of the Night by Linda Howard; Tough Customer by Sandra Brown (!!!); and Queen of the Night by JA Jance. The newest Lisa Jackson is only available in tradeback (not acceptable, so if you get this in a hardback book club edition, I’d LOVE for you to donate it) and Anchor Point by Texas author Donna Van Cleave wasn’t available so I can probably just contact this author directly— and forget about our big Brodart discount. (Sometimes you just got to go with Plan B!)Want to know what we’ll want come September? (God willing, of course!) Saying Goodbye by Nicholas Sparks. Michael Connelly’s next title is Reversal and is expected in October. Greg Isles’ next book is planned for release in January--it is titled Unwritten Laws. Stephenie Meyers, author of the Twilight books, will surprise us one day, maybe. “Midnight Son” (Edward’s story) was anticipated last September, but supposedly due to an unpermissable release on the Internet, she has indefinitely postponed this title. (Don’t mess with Stephenie. She can hold a grudge. Or maybe it’s just an “excuse”...) Last weekend, Jim and I drove out to Midland, and along the way I believe we saw THOUSANDS (not hundreds) of wind turbines, turning in the West Texas wind. Well, all of that “power” has to go somewhere to be of any use... The Fed Ex man delivered a big, heavy box this week from Lone Star Transmission. There are two proposed “tracks” for the transmission lines for these wind turbines. One is detailed in red, the PREFERRED route; the other is detailed in green, the ALTERNATIVE route. The alternative route appears to go through Morton Valley, just so you know. The preferred route looks to be north of Ranger. So far, three citizens have delved into that heavy box and looked at the maps. Friends, there is a LOT of info in that box, and this box is for YOU. You don’t even have to say “please” to look. If you are interested in this wind energy project, come on in! I honestly believe that our community has a LOT of potential, but honestly, we have lots of work to do. When it comes to Economic Development, we need to turn over every rock that we can! I want to leave you with this memorable quote as stated at last Friday’s workshop: “The rising tide lifts all boats.” Are you ready for that tide? I am. Take care, and as always...ENJOY READING!
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Tumbleweed
Smith, Big Spring
Send comments to: tumbleweed@mycounty-line.com
Dairy Cows and Alligators
Tom Browning has spent most of his life in Athens. His daddy had the first dairy there. “We milked thirty cows twice a day,” says Tom, “and sold the milk for ten cents a quart, delivered. He went out of business in 1942. When you milk thirty cows twice a day, it’s quite a job. We had a Delco light plant back in those days. We had a big boiler to wash the bottles. We did every bit of it: bottled it, delivered it and sold it for ten cents a quart.” The delivery wagon was a popular sight around Athens. “He had a Model T truck first, then graduated up to a Model A. We used that old Model A truck for years. It had the words BROWNING’S JERSEY DAIRY PHONE 152 painted on it. There weren’t very many telephones. Every time someone got one, they added that number to it, so we were 152.” Tom grew up going hunting and fishing and it seemed only natural that he have a career as a game warden. He’s retired now and lives beside a private lake just outside of town. Every room of his house is like a museum with all kinds of Indian artifacts, pocketknives, animal skeletons and other memorabilia he collected during his years as a game warden. Each item is carefully displayed in large cases with glass tops. He enjoys showing the articles to visitors and telling bout his adventures. Tom worked all over the state and knows about the flora and fauna of several parts of Texas. He
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has a keen woods sense and knows when to hunt or fish. He spends a lot of time doing both. Some of the trophies on his wall indicate his deep knowledge of the outdoors. Tom’s family loved practical jokes. “I had an uncle that lived at Paducah, Texas and farmed several sections of land. This was back in about the mid-thirties, I think it was. He wrote my daddy a card and wanted him to send a threefoot alligator up to Paducah. Some people out of Dallas had built a big lake down here called Coon Creek Club and there’s alligators in it. “My daddy got one of the guides down there to catch a three foot alligator. He crated it up and sent it to my uncle, Otis Browning, in Paducah, Texas. My uncle got it and put it in the back of his pickup, which had about three inches of dirt in it. He watered it down a little bit and pulled in at the local café. Within about fifteen minutes there must have been fifty people looking at that alligator in the back of his pickup. “One of the gentlemen there was about 85 years old and had the reputation of always having the last word. If you told about something, he told something that would top it. He looked at that alligator and asked Otis where he got it. My uncle said he plowed it up. And man replied, ‘when I first come to this country we used to plow them things up coming and going.’ He wasn’t going to be outdone.” How to Deal With a Cop Killer
Larry Gill is a historian and is active in the Merkel museum, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year. The museum has had an active five years. It started out in a building that once was a western wear store. It filled up quickly because residents of Merkel anxiously donated articles of historic interest. Two building expansions have increased the museum to more than three times its original size. The displays of vehicles, photographs, uniforms and other items are so well done the museum looks like it has been there for decades. When Larry is not doing museum work, he serves as a constable. Occasionally both his jobs come together in some of his presentations to school kids. “I love to dress up in some of the costumes
and uniforms we have around here,” says Larry. “Sometimes I dress up like Johnny Reb and tell some civil war stories. Since I’m a peace officer, one of my favorite stories in the museum is about an incident that occurred back in 1925 when a Merkel constable was killed. When I tell it, I wear my law enforcement clothes complete with gun, gunbelt, hat, bandana and boots and try to re-enact the story. “The sheriff from Big Spring came to Merkel and told the constable he needed some help. He said a man from Merkel had killed a man in Big Spring and the killer was working on a farm south of Merkel. The sheriff and constable go out there to find the wanted man in a field grubbing tree stumps. As they walked toward the man, he reaches down and picks up a rifle he had lying on the ground and shoots the constable in the stomach. He falls and crawls over against a tree. “The sheriff starts running to keep out of the line of fire and borrows a car from a neighboring farmer. As he is driving off, the man with the gun catches up to him and shoots him. Then he went back to the constable, took the pistol from the constable’s holster and shot him in the head. He then came back to Merkel to tell his family goodbye and began running south. “They caught him at Lohn. He was hiding in a boxcar. There was a huge posse. Thousands of people were looking for this guy. The posse was led by the Abilene police chief. The assistant chief walked up to the man in the boxcar and told him if he would surrender he wouldn’t be hurt. He shot the assistant chief in the leg. That was it. Some of the men had dynamite and they threw it under the boxcar. “They got his body out of there, secured it with a rope on the running board of the Abilene police chief’s car, then they drove all over the county showing this man off, sending the message that you don’t kill law enforcement officers. That might not go over too much today, but it seemed perfectly all right in 1925.” The museum has a photograph of the man tied to the running board of the Model A vehicle. The people in Merkel didn’t want him buried in the local cemetery, but he was taken out to the cemetery at night and placed in an unmarked grave.
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The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Clint
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Coffee CLU ChFC, State Farm Insurance® Agent Is CD Laddering Right for You?
With the recent volatility in the stock market, people are hesitant to put their entire nest egg into the market. Additionally, with the economy creating tight times for families, it’s often necessary to make sure funds are available if and when we need them. For those investors who are either reluctant to jump head first into the market or those who may have a need for cash, the strategy of laddering Certificates of Deposit (CDs) may be appropriate. CD laddering is the process of structuring your investment into CDs to take advantage of the higher rates afforded by longer-term time deposits, yet maintaining liquidity by arranging it so that equal portions of the invested money is available periodically. To accomplish this, you begin by buying numerous CDs with various maturities. For instance, let’s say you have $25,000 to invest. Rather than investing the $25,000 in one CD that matures at a designated time, by laddering CDs, you may choose to invest $5,000 in each of five separate CDs. In this example, you would then purchase a 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 4-year, and 5-year CD in equal amounts of $5,000. After one year, when your first CD matures, you would invest it in a new 5-year CD. Each year, a CD will expire and, if the funds are not needed, they will be reinvested in a new 5-year CD to take advantage of the higher interest rate typically offered by a 5-year CD as compared to the 1- or 2-year CDs. This approach allows you the comfort of knowing that a CD will mature each year in case you need the money, yet still take advantage of the higher rates typically offered for longer maturities. Staggering your maturity dates also helps smooth out the volatility of the market. If interest rates rise during the year, you will have money available to invest in a higher rate CD. Or, if rates fall, only a portion of your investment dollars will need to be reinvested at the lower rate.
You know you need life insurance. In fact, you probably already know your agent. Call me and I’ll help you get the right life insurance for you and your family.
Clint Coffee, Agent 959 E Main St Eastland, TX 76448 Bus: 254-629-1222 clint@clintcoffee.com
statefarm.com® State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY and WI), State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company P062048 2/07 (Licensed in NY or WI) - Bloomington, IL
CD laddering may be a strategy that’s appropriate for your lifestyle. Plus, with the guaranteed interest rate offered on CDs, you will be able to plan your future with confidence. Talk with your State Farm insurance agent Clint Coffee at 254-629-1222 for additional information.
YOU Missed a Spot!!!
If the administration doesn’t want us to drill offshore, maybe they should let us drill more on land? American drilling creates jobs, reduces demand for foreign oil, and helps strengthen our economy. The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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■ Eastland
Chamber, Cristal Rose
KTAB Comes to Eastland
Have you ever wanted to see a live news broadcast, or meet the personalities that bring you ground breaking news coverage? Well, on July 20th, you will get your chance. KTAB will broadcast live on the square in historic downtown Eastland, Texas. Don’t miss your chance to be on television, enjoy live entertainment, great food, and up to the minute news coverage!! More details to be released at a later date. BUSINESS OF THE MONTH: Bboxlady.com Bboxlady.com is a new business for Eastland County. Joellen Hodge owns this Internet enterprise and is pleased with the growth she has seen in just one year. The idea of a website dedicated to letting people put just about any kind of classified ads online for free may sound crazy, but it works. Jo “rents” advertising space to local business who know how popular the site has become. Jo says she has been able to support the site through advertising and the low cost of listing certain large dollar items like vehicles and homes If someone is looking for a used car, or a baby bed, the Bboxlady probably has one listed. Open 24 hours a day, you can check out the listings any time if the day or night.. The contact page lets you e-mail your items, comments or questions directly to Jo, who handles everything herself before it goes public. “I am determined that no person be able to post anything that would make someone else uncomfortable on my site…This is a business, and you should be able to walk in any time and feel comfortable.” Jo promises her clients and readers she double checks every word before it is made visible. A fun collection of Widgets are on the site…you can check out NASCAR News, World Reports and even updates on antiques. Jo says it makes the site more fun, and a great go to place for people who are on the go! If you would like to advertise with the Bboxlady. com, her website address is: http://bboxlady.com or give Jo a call at 254-212-1948/254-653-7179. In the meantime…y’all go be nice to each other! NEW MEMBERS: MicroplexNews.com Baytech Auto Rental Farmers Insurance
■ Eastland
County 9-12 Project, Greg Sellers
The Power of the People
When we hear the phrase, “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…” most of us probably have a flashback to high school government or civics class. And, truthfully, that is about as far as our attention span lasted! Like many other school subjects, we didn’t see much value in learning stuff we would never have a use for in the ‘real world’. The ‘real world’ we live in today however, has evolved from what we knew back then. Today it is ever more important for the average person to be knowledgeable and educated on the U.S. Constitution. The members of the Eastland County 9-12 Project would like to help our community become better informed about the rights and protections that are reserved to us as citizens. “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” This is the preamble or introduction to the Constitution. Its purpose is to tell us the purpose of the document. It is worth taking a look at these phrases and what they really mean. We the People of the United States This phrase clearly identifies that the Constitution was created by the people – not a king or tyrant. It is a document of the common man, not favoring an upper-class or lower-class or middle-class. in Order to form a more perfect Union The Constitution is an effort to improve and perfect the Articles of Confederation that had first joined the thirteen colonies into the United States. The experience gained in ten years of government under those Articles clearly showed where improvements were needed. establish Justice In 1787, the unfairness of laws and trading practices was a great concern of the people. The ‘system’ favored those who had wealth and power. Today, we have the benefit of a
Leeann Barron Financial Advisor Cisco, TX 76437 254-442-1564
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Eastland
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County 9-12 Project, Continued...
justice system that is the fairest in the world. It has not always been so and while imperfections still exist, we are still able to strive for the justice the Constitutional Framers had in mind. insure domestic Tranquility Domestic uprisings could threaten the new Republic and lead to anarchy and collapse. A properly balanced government that was responsive to the needs of the people was critical to the stability of the nation. provide for the common defence The new nation was vulnerable to attack from all sides. The individual states were not capable of fending off attack from land or sea alone. Britain and Spain were a threat as well as Indian attacks from within. Only by maintaining a strong Union could the states present a strong defense.
people by the Constitution of the United States of America. Opinion articles are from Eastland County 9-12 Project members. The views expressed are those of the authors alone. They may or may not represent the views or opinions of the Eastland County 9-12 Project. The Eastland County 9-12 Project is a non-political movement. The 9-12 Project is designed to bring us all back to the place we were on September 12, 2001. The day after America was attacked we were not obsessed with Red States, Blue States or political parties. We were united as Americans, standing together to protect the greatest nation ever created. Please visit http://www.the912project.com for more information.
promote the general Welfare The whole point of having tranquility, justice and defense was to promote the general welfare of the country and the citizens. The government was to see to these things to the benefit of everyone and provide the environment that would allow the nation to thrive and flourish as a result of the hard work and productive labor of free citizens. and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity This was the final culmination of the whole process – the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the difficult job of setting up a government that would be a model to the rest of the world. Citizens could look forward to being free in a paradise of Liberty as opposed to having nothing for themselves except to work for the benefit of a king and to extend that benefit to their children and succeeding generations. do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America We the People… do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. Everything else is sandwiched in between these statements. It provides a name for the document that follows and restates the name of the nation adopting the Constitution. The word “ordained” indicates the Constitution was set in place by a higher power – in this case “the people” and that it was “established” indicates that it replaces all prior systems of government.
When we take the time to consider our Constitution and Bill of Rights, it should jump right out at us that the original intent was for the people to be the masters of government – not government as master of the people. Which way is it working today? I submit that “we the people” have become lazy and allowed our government to get out of hand. Did you know our elected officials take an oath of office to “…support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America against all enemies foreign and domestic”? In this day and time we have allowed our elected representatives to undermine and circumvent the Constitution for all kinds of reasons. Accountability to the people is not a partisan issue. No matter what your political affiliation may be, the time has come for us all to take back the power that is vested in the The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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More Photos, Page 17 The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37•
ARNOLD LOCKSMITH SERVICE 24 Hour Emergency Service
254-442-1878 • 254-488-1935 1308 W. 14th St. • Cisco, Tx 76437 Certified/Insured
TX Lic B15738
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■ Eastland
County 9-12 Project, Greg Sellers
What is the Bill of Rights and Why do We Have It?
What we often call the Bill of Rights is not actually an independent or separate document but rather is a term referring to the first ten amendments to the newly minted United States Constitution that were ratified and adopted in 1791. There were actually twelve amendments proposed but only ten of them were ratified. This fact illustrates that the collection of amendments were considered and acted upon individually and not as a package. By the same token, the amendments are not in any particular order of priority or importance. The principal political persuasions of the time were known as the Federalists and Anti-Federalists. Concerning the role of the new Constitution, they seemed to mostly agree that there was a need to limit the powers of the central government and reserve the rights of the people. However, there was disagreement on how to best accomplish that aim. Federalists believed that the Constitution was already written to sufficiently limit the powers of government but the Anti-Federalists desired to insure such limitation by spelling out certain specific rights that were to be protected.
will actively defend them. If we are ignorant of what our Constitution says and what it means, how then will we know that our government and our elected representatives are doing what is right? If we surrender our rights to the government, what hope will be left to have a government “of the people, by the people, for the people”? Opinion articles are from Eastland County 9-12 Project members. The views expressed are those of the author alone. They may or may not represent the views or opinions of the Eastland County 9-12 Project. The Eastland County 9-12 Project is a non-political movement. The 9-12 Project is designed to bring us all back to the place we were on September 12, 2001. The day after America was attacked we were not obsessed with Red States, Blue States or political parties. We were united as Americans, standing together to protect the greatest nation ever created. Please visit http://www.the912project.com for more information.
Federalists maintained that the proclamation of the natural rights of men was sufficiently documented in the Declaration of Independence that preceded the Constitution by thirteen years. They believed the Constitution should serve only as the framework to enable the building and operation of the national government and that it was already understood that the national government would have no powers beyond what was specifically allowed by the Constitution. This perspective was solidified by inclusion of Article 9 and 10. These two articles are not as well known and quoted as perhaps Article 1 & 2 but they are just as important to defining the powers of our government. Article 10 states: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. The Constitution does two things – it gives specific powers to the federal government and prohibits the States from exercising certain powers that belong to the federal government. It is that simple. Everything else remains under the control of the States or the individual citizens of the United States. Article 9 states: The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. This article is meant to ensure that because the individual rights of the people are not specifically and exhaustively listed, it does not mean that the government can assume those rights. Rather, the writings of the founders unequivocally show that ALL power resides in the people first, then the States, and the federal government is only allowed the power that is specifically enumerated or listed in the Constitution. Have you read the Constitution lately? The basis of our Bill of Rights is the proposition that the liberties of a nation can only be secured by citizens of firm conviction who understand our rights and liberties and The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37•
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■ Out
and About, Mike Norris Rising Star -- It’s A Relatively Small Town
A couple of weeks ago, I received a phone call from a woman who just wanted to talk to me about the NORRIS family name. She told me she was a Norris, and that anytime she came across Norris’s whom she had never met, she enjoyed talking to them about where they came from and where their families were established. She told me that she would love to meet with me and talk about our respective families. In addition to that, she wanted me to have a look at a piece of property that she owned in Rising Star. Well, as it happened, I already had a meeting scheduled with Nancy Bostick of the Rising Star EDC for the following week. So luckily, we were able to schedule an afternoon to meet and talk. Her name was Jo Sledge, and she is the owner of the Rising Star “City Market Building” which is just south of down town Rising Star. For the last couple of years, she has been refurbishing the building from the roof, down! As I walked in, the open spaciousness of the building is breathtaking -- it’s like a little old church building scaled up to the size of a highschool gymnasium! Jo says she would like to open the building for reunions and special events, like gospel concerts; weddings, anything where a bunch of people would like to get in out of the Texas sun for a while. But that is still farther down the road since the rennovation is still in its early stages. As far as being kinfolk...well, we agreed that there’s reason to suspect as much, but I seriously need to brush up on my family tree! I’ll have more on both subjects in a later issue...Stay Tuned! Rising Star -- Main Street & City Park Improvements!
Shown here is a photo of the new steps and hand rails that have been installed on the downtown sidewalks of Rising Star. Nancy Bostick of the Rising Star EDC says the new rails make shopping in downtown Rising Star much easier and safer. You’re invited to come down to Rising Star and see for yourself! On Saturday, June 12th, the Rising Star “Star Pride” organization and the Rising Star EDC would like to invite local and area visitors to a “Carnival in the Park” event to be held in the Rising Star City Park. The event will last from 10am to 2pm and will include classic carnival games such as coin tossing, dart throwing and others. There will also be an Olde Tyme Photo Booth and a fun Jail Booth where you can have your best friends locked up until someone pays to get them out. The event goes to raise money for replacing
the Rising Star City Park playground equipment. Many of the Rising Star kiddos enjoy playing on the existing equipment, but some of it is in need of retirement after a long service of standing up to years of energetic kiddos. You can help by coming by and enjoying a fun day in the park with your families and friends.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Life
Planning Issues, Jim Kennedy
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Send comments to: lifeplanning@mycounty-line.com
76 Reasons Why Not to Invest in the Stock Market 1934 Great Depression 1935 Spanish Civil War 1936 Economy Still Struggling 1937 Recession 1938 War Clouds Gather 1939 War in Europe 1940 France Falls 1941 Pearl Harbor 1942 Wartime Price Controls 1943 Industry Mobilizes 1944 Consumer Goods Shortage 1945 Post-War Recession Predicted 1946 Dow Tops 200- MARKET HIGH 1947 Cold War Begins 1948 Berlin Blockade 1949 Russia Explodes A-Bomb 1950 Korean War 1951 Excess Profits Tax 1952 U.S. Seizes Steel Mills 1953 Russia Explodes H-Bomb 1954 Dow Tops 300- MARKET HIGH 1955 Eisenhower Illness 1956 Suez Crisis 1957 Russia Launches Sputnik 1958 Recession 1959 Castro Seizes Power in Cuba 1960 Russia Downs U-2 Plane 1961 Berlin Wall Erected 1962 Cuba Missile Crisis 1963 Kennedy Assassinated 1964 Gulf of Tonkin
1965 Civil Rights Marches 1966 Vietnam War Escalates 1967 Newark Race Riots 1968 USS Pueblo Seized 1969 Money Tightens- Market Falls 1970 Cambodia Invaded- Vietnam Spreads 1971 Wage Price Freeze 1972 Largest U.S. Trade Deficit Ever 1973 Energy Crisis- Gas Lines 1974 Steepest Market Drop in Four Decades 1975 Clouded Economic Prospects 1976 Economic Recovery Slows 1977 Market Slumps 1978 Interest Rates Rise 1979 Oil Prices Skyrocket 1980 Interest Rates At All-Time High 1981 Steep Recession Begins 1982 Worst Recession in 40 Years 1983 Market Hits New Highs 1984 Record Federal Deficits 1985 Economic Growth Slows 1986 Dow Near 2000 1987 Record-Setting Market Decline 1988 Iran Hostage Crisis 1989 October “Mini-Crash” 1990 Persian Gulf War 1991 Fall of Berlin Wall 1992 Global Recession 1993 Health Care Reform 1994 Fed Raises Interest Rates Six Times 1995 Dow Tops 5,000
1996 Dow Tops 6,000 1997 Hong Kong Reverts to China 1998 Asian Flu 1999 Y2K Scare 2000 Tech Bubble Burst 2001 Terrorist Attacks on USA 2002 Corporate Accounting Scandals 2003 Invasion of Iraq 2004 Interest Rates Rise 2005 Gulf Hurricanes 2006 North Korea Tests Nuclear Missiles 2007 The Chinese Correction 2008 The Global Financial Crisis Begins 2009 The Great Recession 2010 ??? 1 Good Reason Why You Should $20,371,000 This is the amount a mere $10,000 invested in the S&P 500 Index in January of 1934 would have been worth in December 2009. Emotionally we are always thinking of reasons not to invest in the stock market. Is there fear today? Absolutely! Just think: What would Warren do? (Warren Buffet, that is – arguably the greatest investor of all time). Well…he says, “Buy Fear!” These 76 years of experience should help us to be comfortable with this discipline.
You cannot buy the S&P 500 index. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Jim Kennedy is a Registered Representative with VSR Financial Services, Inc. Kennedy Financial is independent of VSR Financial Services, Inc. Securities & Advisory Services offered through VSR Financial Services, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser & Member FINRA/SIPC.
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■ Texas
Government, Gov. Rick Perry Service Members Make the Ultimate Sacrifice to Preserve Freedom
Houston, Tx, May 31, 2010 “Today is a solemn day, a moment of remembrance, as we honor the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Places of honor like these, like Arlington National Cemetery and even the Normandy American Cemetery have a timeless air about them and a still sense of peace that seem out of place in our busy lives. It is well and good to be here today, to reflect on the harsh realities of war and recall the lives of those who have gone to their final rest after serving their country. If you were to walk over to section S1, Site 2649 you’d find the gravesite of Jimmie West an Army Staff Sergeant who saved the life of one of my best friends, Jay Kimbrough during a firefight in Vietnam in May, 1967. As Jimmie’s does, every single one of the markers on these hallowed grounds tells a story and reflects a life devoted to a higher purpose. As one who came of age during the Vietnam War, I will admit that my generation was not unified in its regard for those who served but I am proud that America has largely turned the corner in the way it celebrates the members of our military. As a result, more people may agree with my contention that there is no higher form of public service than wearing the uniform of one’s country Don’t get me wrong; I have high admiration for those who dig wells in third world villages or serve in public office but someone who will face incoming fire to set people free is on a whole other plane. On days of remembrance like this, we celebrate our own freedom won through brutal sacrifice and are humbled. However, I prefer to dwell on the amazing sacrifices our fighting men and women have made throughout our history so that oppressed people all over the world can breathe the rare air of freedom. I think of Iraqis, their index fingers still purple
from the first democratic vote of their lives or the first Afghan girls to publicly attend school in generations because American warriors fought to liberate them. I think back to the emaciated prisoners in Buchenwald who endured years of degradation, torture and abuse and the relief they must have felt when their Nazi captors fled in fear of Patton’s mighty Third Army. Earlier this year, I had the honor of speaking at a memorial service for a fellow Aggie, Mr. Bill McKenzie who was an officer in that liberating force. His distinguished service in WW II grew out of his sense of duty…and ultimately informed his lifelong commitment to serving others. Like the vast majority of what has been called the Greatest Generation Bill returned home with a heightened sense of what matters and a desire to make a difference through service. We are blessed with the emergence of a new greatest generation as our young soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and Coast Guardsmen go boldly in harm’s way for the cause of liberty.
but also the accolades of a new generation as we commemorate such immeasurable sacrifice. To those interred here and such places across our country as well as those who have are one with the soil on battlefields around the world we salute you and we thank you. We recall your sacrifice, we honor your service and we pledge to never waver in our commitment to freedom. We pick up your charge, and vow our eternal vigilance, against the forces of oppression, against incursions on liberty, no matter where they may arise. As Texans, as Americans, as humans, we can do nothing less. On this day of remembrance, may God bless you and, through you, may He continue to bless the great state of Texas.” ~Gov. Rick Perry’s remarks at a Memorial Day ceremony at Houston’s National Cemetery.
They are the latest in a long line of brave Americans stretching back to the Minutemen of Concord who have heeded the call to serve and submitted themselves to the cause of freedom no matter what the cost. Memorial Day is an essential part of the American experience and a fitting tribute to our war dead. At its inception, it was called Decoration Day a time to scatter flowers on the graves of fallen warriors. Today, let us carry on that tradition, bringing not only flowers
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County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Treasure
Hunters, Jerry Eckhart
Is There Any Treasure Left?
When some folks think of treasure, they envision pirate chests filled with gold coins and jewels. Others picture treasure a jars filled with old coins dug up from pioneer homesteads and yet more dream of golden bars stacked in a remote cave. That is the nature of treasure dreams. Many rush out and purchase a metal detector, thinking they will be the lucky ones. Some are, but many are not and their newly acquired metal detector goes into the closet to rest in a dark corner from then on.
The truth is that there is still treasure to be found, right here in Eastland and surrounding counties. That treasure will have a different form than our dreams, but it is still treasure none the less. There is an old adage that says, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” I am not sure just where that saying came from, but it is surely true. So, if that is true, what can the treasure hunter really find close to where he lives? Charles Garrett, founder of Garrett Electronics, one of the largest metal detector manufacturers in the world, often says, “You can find treasure right in your own back yard.” I’ve known Charles for years and know that what he says is true. There are many lost and potentially valuable coins lost in every yard in this area. It is true that many are simply common everyday coins, but there is still the possibility of a really old one. Indian artifacts are all around this part of the country and they can be found just about everywhere, even within the borders of our towns. Recently, a yard man was raking up a pile of debris for one of his customers and out of the soil popped a prehistoric flint knife. This is possibly one of the oldest artifacts found in Eastland County, and it was found right in a back yard. Stone arrow points, spear points and flint tools are frequently found along the shores of the many lakes in our area. People will walk the shoreline when lake levels are low and pick them up
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Editor’s note: To see more of Jerry’s treasure finds, visit his Facebook profile. Just search Facebook for “Jerry Eckhart”
out of the sand. Other treasures are found with metal detectors along those same fresh water beaches. Among the hundreds of aluminum pulltabs and discarded drink cans, metal detectorists find coins, rings and necklaces. All these items were lost by sunbathers and swimmers as they pursued their fun in the sun. To the antique collector, nothing excites more than a rusty skeleton key, a discarded lock or some other artifact that brings back visions of the past. Many collectors not only haunt the antique stores, but actively search old farmsteads with their metal detectors to find things they can add to their collections. Often, in addition to the metallic objects, they spy old marbles, porcelain doll parts or old bottles. They see those because they are intently watching their metal detector search coil as they swing it in front of them. It does take practice and skill to use a metal detector to find these treasures. Although metal detectors have improved in quality and sophistication over the years most new detector owners don’t step out their front door and start finding unless they know a little about their machine. That means buying from a reputable metal detector dealer and not from a discount store or online discount house. You must have someone who is trained and experienced in the particular unit you purchase. When you know what that magic metal find will and will not do before you buy it, you will increase your chances of finding that treasure in your own back yard. So, is there any treasure left? The answer is: There certainly is and people are finding treasure every day. You can too if you really want to, but it does take time and a real desire to do so. If there is enough interest, we may discuss some of the tricks and techniques that successful treasure finders use in issues to come. Good Luck, Jerry Eckhart
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37
■ Treasure
Hunters, Jerry Eckhart
■ Gorman
Events, Jill Rainey
Don’t miss my Gray Ghost Nite Hunt
Benefit for BOB HAMMONTREE
The best, most exciting hunt of this year. Not just silver dimes, but collectible coins of all kinds. You won’t find a hunt anywhere that has what this hunt has. Test your skill. Date/Time: Saturday, August 21, 2010 at full dark. No lights of any kind for the first 30 minutes. No digging tools, coins will not be buried. Penlights and small headlamps are allowed after first half hour. Entries limited to 35. Entry fee: $35.00 Sign up now for a place. When 35 entrants are registered, there will be no more. Call Jerry Eckhart: 254-631-6809 for entry form. Email: jmeckhart@sbcglobal.net
Bob Hammontree, owner of City Grocery in downtown Gorman, recently suffered a stroke that has put him and his wife Brenda in a tough spot. Thanks to a willing community and support from their past and present employees, the store has remained open. This community is now asking for your help, there will be a benefit BBQ and Silent Auction for Bob on Saturday, June 26th, at the old school gym in Gorman, entertainment will be provided. If you are interested in helping or donating an item, please contact Tacy or Jill at Gorman City Hall (254)7342317. We will start serving at 5:00pm and go until everything is gone. Ya’ll come out and help us support one of the great families of our town.
First EASTLAND PRIDE! Declared “Rousing Success!” “It was a rousing success!” said Eastland City Manager Ron Holliday when asked how the first EASTLAND PRIDE! Cleanup went on Saturday, May 22. “With the great public and private partnership between First Financial Bank, the Eastland Old Toads,” he said, “and the assistance from the city, we could not have asked for a better event.” Holliday reported the 40 yard dumpster, provided by First Financial Bank, was filled to overflowing capacity early Saturday morning and additional items were hauled by pickups and trailers, 37 loads to be exact, to the City Convenience Center. Thanks to the efforts of Tom O’Neil of First Financial Bank, Pam Rose of the Old Toads, and city staff including Holliday, Bobby Jacoby, Bill Dolen and Chief Cecil Funderburgh, this first EASTLAND PRIDE! has been declared a great success. “The city is glad to lend support to this first EASTLAND PRIDE! cleanup,” Holliday said, “and we look forward to the next one and the next one and the next one! Let’s make sure EASTLAND PRIDE! continues to thrive!
RISING STAR
Saturday Night BINGO Every Saturday Night Doors Open 5:30pm Play Starts 7:00pm Concessions Available American Legion 205 S Main Kenny Rutledge
(325)642-2983
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ Out
of the Box, Joellen Hodge
Send comments to: thebox@mycounty-line.com
The Lessons of Honor It is the day we set aside to honor those in the military who gave their lives for the ideals of freedom in the United States. Memorial Day gives us an opportunity to teach our children that the price of democracy is priceless, and those who pay for it are to be remembered with pride. It is the ultimate history lesson for all of us. I looked up this day on line, and found the basic info I had known since third grade. Once the Civil War had ended, many communities set aside a day as a memorial to those who had died. Looking back it must have been a healing process for so many families. Experts say that over 600,00 military people died in those four years of war. They deserved honor even as those they left behind deserved some dignity and closure. All this brings me to what may very well be the first formal Memorial Day’s observance and something many of us do not know. According to a newspaper report from Charleston, S.C., dated May 1, 1865, a crowd of over 10 thousand people gathered together for a “Decoration Day”. The sight for their celebration was the “Washington Race Course”, which had been used as a prison camp for Union soldiers captured by the Confederancy. It has also been used as a mass grave for those who died in the prison. Those who gathered that day had taken on the unimaginable task of removing each body and then giving everyone of them a proper burial. This monumental undertaking took them only ten days. The work, when completed, included a fence around the area and archway. During the observances on that day in 1865, according to the report, there were sermons,
■ Eastland
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County Crisis Center
Kids Day in the Park
The Eternal Flame-Arlington Cemetery Picture by Mark Wooten
singing and picnics. It was also noted that nearly 3000 of those in attendace were children. Those folks that gathered that day were almost everyone of them born into slavery. It was a sea of people who had come into this country with no rights, and their futures were uncertain at that moment. And these same people chose of their own accord to honor those who had fallen in battle for a nation they themselves were just being allowed to join. They brought their children and gave thanks. They prayed, and they did the right thing by honoring those who fought for what they thought was right. Memorial Day lessons are not learned on the battlefields. They are learned by what our children see us do. Do we honor our fallen and our veterans with our respect? Do we ask our government to care for our veterans and safeguard the programs that give back to them what they gave us? These questions will only be answered with YES if are truly grateful enough to teach our children what freedom costs. If you have an idea about an article, e-mail me: johodge@bboxlady.com
“Celebrate Children” was this year’s theme for Kid’s Day in the Park. April is child abuse awareness month and our community comes together by raising awareness about child abuse and neglect, and prevention. The original date scheduled for Kids Day in the Park was rained out and it was touch and go for the rescheduled date of Saturday, May 15. The rain held off and those attending enjoyed the pleasant coolness of the day from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Eastland Park Hill. Despite the cloudy weather, there was still a good turn out with about 250 children and 200 parents attending. Children enjoyed playing games, riding ponies, eating hot dogs and playing in the jump houses while their parents had opportunity to learn about some of the children’s programs in Eastland County. Many thanks go out to Eastland County Children’s Advocacy Center, Crime Victim Assistance Center, Court Approved Special Advocates of Eastland County, and Cisco/ Eastland/Ranger Head Start for being a part of this day. Special recognition goes to the Cross Timbers Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse for going above and beyond to help with this event. This fun filled day was made possible by donations of time and generous contributions from Eastland Brookshire’s, Eastland Sonic, Eastland Wal-Mart, Great Western Dining Services, Eastland Fire Department, Eastland Chamber of Commerce, Child Welfare Board, and Donald Cate CPA. Thanks to Eastland County Newspapers, KATX All Texas Radio, microplexnews. com, Ranger ISD, Cisco Elementary, Siebert Elementary, Rising Star ISD, Gorman ISD, Head Start, Redeemer Lutheran Day Care, Son Light School, Mulberry School and Myrtle Wilks Center Day Care for helping get the word out. Most of all thank you to the children who came out and the parents who brought them. We appreciate you.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37 Send comments to: footnotes@mycounty-line.com
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37• ■ From
The Backside, Henry J. Clevicepin
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Send comments to: backside@mycounty-line.com
Cotton Underwear & $10 to Mexico... By Henry J. Clevicepin Collaborated by Nellie Frecklebelly and Agnes & Ophilia Fudpucker
RISING STAR
Saturday Night BINGO Every Saturday Night
Well, we got a little more rain this oil coming out of the leak but everything has failed. Doors Open 5:30pm week here in Buzzard’s Roost. Now Ol Estee K. being the creative genius he is, said why Play Starts 7:00pm me and ol Estee K. Bibbles, my mulebarn partner & don’t they just make a floating capitol building with Concessions Available beer drinking buddy, we grew up out in west Texas all of the congressmen in it and float it over that where you could stand up to your butt in water and get leak…….if they can suck as much oil out of that hole American Legion sand blowed in your eyes at the same time, so we call as they suck money out of us taxpayers the problem 205 S Main Kenny Rutledge a rain this time of the year a little cotton shower, so will be solved in about 20 minutes !!!!! (325)642-2983 we could get our cotton planted. But me and ol Estee You know everybody is cussing ol Obama, K. swore when we left that area, the only cotton we even some of his own Democrats and some of them was ever gonna have was gonna be in our underwear yaehoos that voted for him. Now during one of mine and we’ve kept it that way so far. and ol Estee K.’s little brain storm sessions down at Now me and ol Estee K. was settin down at the the Buzzard’s Roost Bar & Grill, we got to thinking, Ambers & Just Silver Bullet Guns Buzzard’s Roost Bar & Grill the other day having us it will be far easier to limit and undo the train wrecks a cold brew and he got a call from an ol gal wanting that an Obama presidency will cause than it will be all us Buzzard’s Roost people to donate our clothes to restore the common sense & good judgment to all to a charity for the starving people all of over the of the idiots who wanted him to be the president in world. Ol Estee K. told the lady that me & him and the first place. Blaming the prince of fools is a lot Nellie Frecklebelly and the Fudpucker sisters was all worse than blaming the whole bunch of fools that All items at Ambers so fat that anybody that would fit in our clothes shore made him their prince. America can survive Obama, Excluding Tyler Candles & Sterling Silver wasn’t starving !!!!!! who is merely a fool, but it is less likely to survive a Speaking of starving, ol Estee K. was telling me multitude of fools that made him the president. about two Mexican beggars down in Austin he had About the end of our little drinking session ol Starting the first week of sale, April 5th! heard about. Now ol Jose & Carlos begged in different Estee K. sprung some more of his trivia on me. He Prices being lowered each week until all items are sold! parts of town and about the same amount of time, said did you know that the last 4 letters of American Sale includes Displays, Cases & Registers! but ol Carlos was only collecting about $8 to $10 a spells I Can. The last 4 letters of Republican spells I day while Jose was coming home every night with a Can. And the last 4 letters of Democrats spells RATS. Just Silver Bullet Guns suitcase full of $10 bills, drove a new Mercedes, had Kinda fits don’t it !!!!! In fact ol Estee K. said that’s a nice house and lots of money to spend. Ol Carlos why they don’t want the Ten Commandments posted All Items one day said to Jose “hey amigo, I work just as long in courthouses, because if you post “Thou Shall Not Excluding Consignment and hard as you do….how do you bring home so Steal, Thou Shall Not Lie & Thou Shall not commit Guns & Personal Collection much money?” Jose says “ Look at your sign…what Adultery in a building full of lawyers, judges and does it say?” Ol Carlos reads his sign to Jose “ I have politicians, it creates a hostile work environment. no work, a wife and six kids to support, please help Well me & ol Estee K. got to go have another No Trades. Cash or Check !!!” No wonder you get only $8 or $10 a day….my session down at the Buzzard’s Roost Bar & Grill. Credit/Debit Cards plus 3% sign says “I ONLY NEED TEN DOLLARS TO GET BACK TO MEXICO !!!!” Words of Wisdom from Henry J. : It’s WE the Open Mon-Fri 10a ~ 5:20p And this immigration deal just keeps getting worse. People, not ME the President !!!!!! You know our government is a piece of work ain’t Open Saturday 10a ~ 1p they????? Don’t you find it amazing that during the You can email ol Henry J at : henryjclevicepin@ 113 West Main St - Eastland, Texas mad cow disease epidemic our government tracked a aol.com North Side of the Square single cow, born in Canada almost three years back, right to the pen where it was in Washington State and then tracked her calves to their pens all over everywhere. But they are unable to locate 11 million From the Backside Sponsor From the Backside Sponsor illegal aliens wandering all over our country. Ol Estee K. suggested we give each illegal a cow so the Fencing, Metal Buildings, Dirt Hauling Average return for 18yrs = 14.07% government could track them. $50,000 minimum investment Low, Low Risk Motorgrading Roads We got that little oil leak down in the Gulf that they been trying to figure out what to do about it. Call: 254-631-2658 Call: 254-433-1928 They been trying to hook up something to suck the The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
RETIREMENT SALE 30% Off
Marked Down 15%
Joe Bond Construction
Life Settlement Investments
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37 Doctor Simpson of Eastland Memorial Hospital received “sneeze” pillows from a class of 5th and 6th grade girls from the Daugherty Street Church of Christ. On the front row from left to right is Kori Brinkley, Lauralee Mace and Lillie Harper. On the back row going left to right is Angel Reep and Shannon Sosebee. These pillows are used after surgery to comfort and to hold! Photo submitted by Wendy Mace
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ Memorial Day Edition, 2010 v3.37•
27 ..
■ Footnotes, Mike Norris
Angel Food Ministries
Ordering Cut-Off Date Thursday June 17th You can now order online from our website: www.angelfoodministries.com
Online Ordering Cut-Off Date Saturday June 19th Distribution Saturday June 26th
Call Ilene for more information (254)442-1969
YOU Missed a Spot!!!
Class of 1977 Meeting 1 PM June 19
Advertise with The County Line! Call (254)631-8407
WHEN: JUNE 19, 2010 WHERE: 515 CRESTWOOD DR. (home
of Darrell Basham) WHAT TIME: 1:00 – ?
We will be taking up a collection for pizza and sodas. We will be ordering pizza around 1:30. It will be come and go as you want. But, if you want pizza you better come early and then go visit other classes. Bring a swim suit if you want to go swimming. We will be out by the pool and gazebo area out back. Looking forward to seeing everyone. Looking for addresses for Jessie Jimenez, Brian Haun, Mark Thompson, Vicki McCormick Brown, Debbie Van Dyke Bingham, Scott Kirkpatrick, and Sylvester Wilson. Thanks, Terry Simmons simmons.terry@sbcglobal.net
■ Help
REMEMBER!!!
With the construction of the new water tower underway, the normal traffic route around the Eastland City Park will be interrupted throughout the summer. Citizens and visitors need to be observant of all traffic signs and personnel as well as the movement of heavy equipment and vehicles in the area. General traffic will not be allowed in the immediate area of the construction site. One-Way traffic flows to be converted to Two-Way. Watch for signs!
Wanted
EBAA Iron Inc. is now accepting applications for full-time experienced maintenance personnel for night shift(10:30pm-7 am). Background in hydraulics, pneumatics, and industrial electronics a plus. Applicant must be able to work in a challenging and fast paced environment. Benefits include base pay with incentive, 401K, credit union, medical, dental, vision and life insurance. Apply in person at the Eastland plant on Tuesdays, 8:00am till 10:00am located on CR442, or send resume, by e-mail to kaelj@ebaa.com or mailing to: EBAA Iron Inc P.O. Box 877 Eastland, Texas 76448
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com