This Issue....
5th Graders Write History!
Local Business Celebrates 25yrs!
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NEW WEBSITE ► www.mycounty-line.com
Texas History Continues!
Business & Community Journal
February, 2010
Volume 3 Issue 29
February’s First Issue!
The County Line Now Comes Out Twice a Month! Watch for the Upcoming Mid-Month Issue!
Santa Claus Bank Robbery A New Take on the Tale ►► See Page 4
President Lincoln’s Birthday ►► See “On the Cover”
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
February, 2010
vol.3 Issue 29
On The Cover:
Contents Lincoln’s Birthday - Feb. 12 Valentine’s Day - Feb. 14 President’s Day - Feb. 15 Washington’s Birthday - Feb. 22
The County Line Published by Mike Norris Wolverine Design
P.O. Box 1156 Eastland, Tx 76448 Phone: (254)631-8407 Fax: (866)633-8715 (toll free)
Visit Our Website:
www.mycounty-line.com The Lincoln Memorial was formally authorized by Congress on February 9, 1911. The first stone was put into place on Lincoln’s birthday, February 12, 1914. Photo used under license
In This Issue:
Growing Up Small Town Cisco I.S.D. 5th Graders Ranger Library Pig Tales From Hogtown Carbon - Then and Now Tumble Weed Smith Tech Tips Bryan’s 25th Anniversary Eastland 9/12 Project Out of the Past Texas Hunter Life Planning Issues Rising Star Library Outdoors Game Warden Out of the Box From the Backside Texas History, Part 2
Footnotes
More on the Web...
Advertising inquiries, article submissions, news releases, comments, please email: countyline@wolverinedesign.com
The County Line is published monthly and distributed in the following cities: Abilene Albany Baird Breckenridge Brownwood Carbon Cisco Cross Plains DeLeon Desdemona Eastland Gordon Gorman Olden Ranger Rising Star Stephenville Strawn Thurber Weatherford
Thank you for reading The County Line! 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 ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Growing
Up Small Town, Mike Norris
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Change is for the better? My vote - No. Super Bowl time again! Are you ready for some football? Wait? The season’s already over? Dang, I missed it! Again! I have frequently told my friends and those who have asked, that since graduating from high school, (where I actually enjoyed participating in everything football and basketball), I have lost interest in sports and most sporting events - especially professional sports. I know, instead of being the big football fanatic like most guys my age, I have mostly lost interest in things where I can not directly influence the events or outcomes. I suppose, that if my only choice is to be a spectator, then I can always find something else to occupy my time. The same can be said for politics. Up until recently, it was quite easy for me to ignore or divert my attention away from the actions of our political leaders and I use that term loosely. Fluctuating tax rates, foreign policy, domestic agendas, and even political scandals, rarely garnered much more of my attention then the occassional sound bite or headline. Pretty much the same as with dog-fighting football stars, or juicedup homerun hitters, I always seem to have better things to worry about. In truth, I have always assumed that the three “independent” branches of government, acting within our established system of checks and balances, would
naturally look after itself with little or no influence required on my part. After all, we are generally taught in school that the Founding Fathers were so critical and concerned about protecting the Liberties of the common citizen that extra measures were taken at every oportunity to enact strict limits on the powers of government. And after 234 years, why should that change now? Of course, as with many Americans, that innocent assumption is on the verge of fundamental change. Just like some media executive who wants to make a few tweeks to how stock car racing is scored, it has become obvious to me that there’s several politicians who want to get in there and tweek things in our basic form of government. Not all politicians look to the foundations of this country with a sense of pride, patriotism, and reverence. In fact, with each passing day, I have come to realize that a growing political cancer has taken up arms and has been waging a secret war against the very cornerstones of the American way of life. For these political miscreants, it is not enough to simply live in the greatest country on the planet, where they themselves have found success, enjoyed the freedoms of the American Dream, and climbed to immeasurable heights beyond what many other humans on this tiny planet could hardly imagine. For
these delusional, anti-Americans, their increasingly harmful influence seems bent on bringing about the destruction of the very Freedoms and Liberties which empowered them to achieve their own accomplishments. They want fundamental change. I’ve heard enough talk about change. The only thing that I expect to change, is how closely I pay attentnion from now on. I am no longer going to be a spectator. That is what has changed. For centuries, individuals from all over the world, have come to America, not in an effort to change it, but with a deep desire to experience it, to be like us, to enjoy our Freedoms and experience our Liberty...to become Americans. Should that change? My vote - No. According to U.S. Census data, for every four citizens born in the United States, an immigrant desperately moves to the United States wanting to become a citizen. That’s a higher ratio of immigration than any other country on the planet! People come here because we have the most Freedom and the most Liberty. Should that change? My vote - No. For over 200 years, no other modern-day society has captured the hearts and minds of the human race as have the American People. We have established our place
among history’s great civilizations and continue to inspire others around the world to follow our path. Should that change? My vote - No. Look at the recent events in Haiti. Our own government, represented by no less than three presidential administrations from the past 17 years, Obama, Bush and Clinton, made a public appeal for aid to Haiti. In addition, countless foreign dignitaries did the same in the name of the United Nations or other organizations. Why do these government officials stand before the camera, humbled and with solemn faces, to appeal to the public, and more directly the American People, for support and aid in times of crisis? It is because private American citizens were hopping into planes, boarding ships, and hitting the ground running with help and aid, open hearts and energetic minds to lend whatever support and effort was needed to the Haitian community before these politicians could even lend their “leadership” to the effort. It is because the American People are the most generous people of the world and we do not sit around and wait for our politicians to tell us what to do. We The People are the leaders of this great country. Not the politicians. Should that change? My vote - No.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
■ Cisco
I.S.D., Stephen Forester 5th Grade History Club puts Santa Claus Robbery to Rhyme
Beginning this school year, there is a new ‘club’ on the campus of Cisco Elementary. The new club is a history club involving the 5th grade class. Those 5th graders who are interested in making history a hands-on subject signed up for the club. The mission of the history club is to promote an appreciation for the history of our community, state, and nation and then actively involve the students in the preservation of the history for future generations both in the classroom and in the community. The 5th graders who signed up must maintain A-B honor Roll status and be faithful to our club meetings. The club’s initial project was to pair off in 6 groups and create a poem about one part of the infamous Santa Claus Bank Robbery here in Cisco. Other projects being planned include a family history, a transcription and photograph markers at Oakwood Cemetery, and a field trip to local historical points. These poems were the work of each group with a leader, researcher, writer and speaker. On Tuesday, December 15, the groups were able to share the poems with the majority of the elementary school…and now they would like to share them with you…
“The Robbery in Rhyme” The Trip to Cisco Cheyenne Rodriguez Gypsy Gray Lupita Bernon Michael Medina
From Wichita Falls down to Cisco came the men Thinking of committing a terrible sin On December 23rd they dressed up in disguise to commit a crime And this would be Ratliff’s second time The drive was long the night was cold Santa and his men were trying to be bold Ratliff is on his way Like Santa Claus on his sleigh Hours have past And they finally run out of gas The trip was done, it was time for the hold up So they had to just give up
Santa Claus Suit
Jaimilynn Humphries Dylan Brunson Hope Melton
Santa Claus suit is red Ratliff is dead
The suit is very soft, But it made him cough Ratliff borrowed the suit from a lady Who was very old and cranky She owned a hotel And she ran it very well He met his friend in a town Tried on the suit before the showdown He had a bad time But he paid for the crime
The Bank Robbery Harley Kendall Shay Murk Kobe Conring Jewel Sharp
Mr. Santa in the suit You had giant big black boots All the children thought you had candy That’s why they thought you were so dandy You ran in the bank and said give me the loot Or I will shoot Mr. Santa you were so snobby You committed a bank robbery There was a woman and her little girl who ran out with fright They ran over to get the police to tell them of the scary sight No one knows who began the shoot But we do know you got off with the loot You took two girls without doubting And the young girls starting pouting You got away in a car without any gas And all the people started to gasp
Not-So-Great Escape Savannah Forester Pecos Vaughn Shawna O’Keefe
The not-so-great escape from the bank Began with shots, real ones not blank They used the girls as shields to get out The bullets were flying about They ran out of gas on the side of the road They money was a huge load
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
continued...
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Daily
Devotional, Wanda Lee Beck Skinner
You Can Count On Christ
Wanda Lee Beck Skinner © January 21, 2010 The world today is filled with tremendous disappointments. People often let you down and make you feel a lack of worth. It seems there are few who choose to give compliments, To those who love to bring love, kindness and mirth. Even those with whom you share your love, heart and sour, May be the ones who forget to show you their appreciation. Even though in their daily life you play an important role. From your life they seem to always be on vacation. The people in authority in your home, county and town, May take you for granted and expect so much of you. They may even confront you with no smiles, just a frown. No matter how many volunteer jobs you are required to do. But I am here to let you know there is one who will never ever fail. Jesus Christ is the only one who lived a perfect life and he does care. His love goes beyond anything and can lead up a great happy trail. The joys and troubles of your life He is willing to hear and share. There is one you can count on through all the life you may live. He will understand when friends and family seem to forsake. He loved you so much His perfect life H e was willing to give. So that you all the right choices would be able to make.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
■ Cisco
I.S.D., continued...
They got another car to help; the driver a fourteen year old Ratliff forgot the money and one man the story is told Back into their car the chase was on When the sheriff caught up they were already gone Finally the police officers arrested Ratliff and his gang Without a whole lot of bang
The Capture Jared Stamey Tyler Murray Juan Lopez
Before Bradford’s car rolled to a stop, he was out with double barrel shotgun He shot three men one of them was barely still alive while the others were having fun
After they escaped by the Brazos River They tried to steal a car from Mr. Wylie, a young driller Mr. Wylie’s father aimed for one of the robbers then shot his son
The robbers got away with nothing to eat except for oranges, and that’s not fun
The robbers were suffering from their injuries and lack of food They weren’t in a very good mood They returned to Cisco to hide in plain sight The next morning when there wasn’t very much light Then they were caught by Sheriff Foster He was so tall they thought he was a monster
The End of the Tale Hallie Taylor Kase Gayle Nicholas Thompson Evan Martinez
After the robbery he was put in jail Hold on a second, that’s not the whole tale They moved him back to Eastland in 1929 He was put in jail without a dime First he tried escape then he killed a jailor So far, all that he did was a BIG failure He was probably taken outside where it was really freezing He was going to be hung and mob didn’t do much teasing Then behind the Majestic Theater where they were playing “The Noose” They hung Santa like a Christmas goose!! The first time they tried, Santa fell down That must have been embarrassing in front of the whole town! So the Santa Claus tale comes to a close A bank robbery gone bad and history made in a little town called Cisco
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
■ @The
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29•
Ranger Library, Diana McCullough Conquest at Sea
Today is Sunday afternoon and the sweet chimes of children’s laughter resonate in our building. As I pulled up to the library and saw all of the boys, I couldn’t miss the “quarterback” football passes in the street...so I decided to put the car in reverse and park in front of The Quarter Store. You may know I’m a little picky about my car. Even a broken rearview mirror. There’s a birthday party in progress at 718 Pine St.--our library premises adjoin Ranger’s Community Room. Happy sounds. My weekend’s been full of them! Our daughter, Keri, and her husband came in late on Friday. Schyler had a roping event in Denton; Keri and I spent yesterday stimulating the economy and then with her sister, the mother of our three adorable grandchildren. Hence the happy sounds. Most of our church service this morning I spent in the nursery with my granddaughter, Brittyn Lynn, and her contemporaries—hence the happy sounds, ditto. Then lunch at my parents. Yes, ditto. Two Sundays ago, Jim and I left the Gulf of Mexico aboard Carnival Cruise’s Conquest ship en route to Key West, Florida, and Freeport and Nassau, of the Bahama Islands. We actually left Ranger at approximately 7:07 AM on Saturday morning, detained by a train crossing, with the bank temperature reading 7 degrees. (Yes, 7 degrees. Way below the fahrenheit freezing temp of 32.) Freezing pipes were my biggest
worry. Jim and I talked about Mike’s request for TWO articles in February, and how I’d mentioned this trip to him. Jim said, “You should have brought a County Line to leave in the ship’s library,” and I told him, “I did!” Jim replied, “You’ll be an INTERNATIONAL writer,” and I laughed. Ice crystals hung on everything—trees, grass, roofs—the sun rose on a white winter wonderland; diminishing towards Waco, but still evident in Groesbeck, Texas. Driving through Houston is a hassle. I say I will NEVER drive in Houston, but my husband says, “You never know,” or some such. We FLEW through Houston at noon (I only screamed once. “Jim, SLOW DOWN!) arriving in Galveston before 1:00. Took a short tour of the town, seeing Carnival’s Ecstasy in port, the historic house, Moody Mansion, on 14th St. that we’d toured in 1979 when we brought Jim’s stepdad, Bill Duffield, to John Sealy Hospital. Our room at Best Western wasn’t quite ready so we filled up the car and satisfied our short list at Wal-Mart. This was our 4th Conquest Cruise in four years. How lucky is that? Last February, due to Hurricane IKE and FEMA employees, our Best Western reservation was bumped and we had to stay in Texas City—but we still ate at IHOP on Sea Wall Boulevard. We had anticipated eating at Joe’s Crab Shack (we never have) but the Internet
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■ @The
Ranger Library, Continued
reviews were less than stellar. We decided to walk over to Kroeger (just across the side street) and check out their deli. We bought two Classic “Wraps”, cokes, and a big bag of chips and “picnicked” at the table in our room—we even carried up vanilla cappachinos from the lobby, which I called “dessert”. Jim and I split the first wrap and set the second in the fridge. Woke up eager and excited at 5:12 AM on Sunday; washed hair, got ready; carried a load to the car including that “wrap”, the chips taped shut, a 16 oz. Bottled coke, a bottled water, and the motel’s “freebies”--and left it in the car as we ate Best Western’s continental breakfast. Then we took a cold walk down the Sea Wall looking for a homeless person to share our extra food with—we’d seen several homeless people on Saturday, and I wanted just one, but I could deal with two as long as they were friends--that “wrap” was divided in two. The weather was pretty cold. (My dad said 17 degrees in Ranger. ) No homeless persons. Walked back to our motel, packed up and said a prayer, checked out, and drove to Carnival’s port, watching futilely for any homeless, and discussing possible options. Taking our bags quickly out of the car, I asked the baggage man if he’d like a sandwich—well, a “wrap”--for lunch, holding it up for him to see. “Untouched,” I said. He quickly agreed and I offered him the whole sack which now included an orange and an apple. He said, “Yeah!” He seemed so happy. Remember our prayer? We’d prayed for
the RIGHT person to share our abundant food. We boarded our big beautiful ship at approximately 11:42 AM, after visiting with Eddie, a fellow passenger from Fort Worth, and his wife and their next door neighbors and their combined four kids—who missed four days of school for this cruise. We would see them intermittently during the week. Nice friendly faces. In Galveston, embarkation occurs on the 3rd deck and we quickly climbed six flights of stairs to the Lido Deck and headed straight for the bountiful buffet line. Our cabin on Deck 6 was ready at 1:30 and our luggage arrived several hours later. Jim had signed us up for “freestyle dining” so we were able to eat in the Renoir dining room anytime between 5:45 and 8:30, or so. (We never ate that late.) We called it a night early. We were tired. Sleep is peaceful in the womb of a mighty ship. Woke up, brightly refreshed, and dressed leisurely for a delicious breakfast. Walked around this ship city on this first “Fun Day at Sea”, bought Port Hole frames as requested by one of Jim’s co-workers and several other items. We don’t plan to buy ANYTHING bulky for ANYONE in the future—just for the record. After a light lunch (we split a wrap, then split a hamburger), we rested and read in our cabin. The outdoor deck was cold and windy on this January day. Monday night was a formal night. We took some
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■ @The
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29•
Ranger Library, Continued
professional pictures (that we did not purchase), then I ate a Greek Farmer’s Salad, lobster and shrimp, and had warm chocolate melting cake and ice cream for dessert. Do you get the idea that food is a major component of a cruise? After dinner, we enjoyed listening to a talented musician on the 3rd floor, then a guitar group across from the Casino, then Karaoke. Before calling it a night we went up to the 9th Deck and listened to the Nik L Beer Band for a little while. We had a nice evening. Lots of variety. Since this was our fourth cruise in four years on the Conquest, we opted out of seeing the SAME shows a fourth time. The shows were really good the first time, and pretty good the second time-especially the juggler and the magician, but four times to see the SAME show did not interest us. The ship was the same but our itinerary was different. We’d never gone to the Bahamas before. Our ship set anchor in Key West, Florida on Tuesday morning. Jim and I watched from one of the upper decks. We enjoyed a big leisurely breakfast, walked around the deck, took pictures, and left the ship—with our Sail & Sign cards and photo ID in hand. Key West is beautiful. Popular with many people including Jimmy Buffett and the late Harry Truman. We chose a cool day to visit. The record low for Key West is 41 degrees and it was 42 degrees that morning—nearly tying the record. The weather did warm up some and I was fine in jeans and a
sweater. We explored on our own, came back to the ship for a tasty lunch, climbing 9 flights of stairs (you enter and leave the ship on Deck Zero for the other ports). Of course, we needed the exercise! Our Trolley Tour left at 1:30 for 100 historical points of interest, including Harry Truman’s Little White House, Ernest Hemingway’s house, the Audubon House, and the Southernmost point of the U.S. The highest altitude of the island is 18 feet above sea level. It was a fun tour. We had a good guide. We walked around the area and visited the shops. Returned to the ship a little tired...a GOOD tired... As we dressed for dinner, we heard that President Obama was informed of a large earthquake in Haiti at 5:52. Our ship was set to sail. My first thought, and words were, “What about a tsunami?” Sounds self-centered, huh? I found out later there was a tsunami warning for the Bahama region, but the warning didn’t last long. I fretted over those poor Haitians with nearly every bite of dinner. I couldn’t help but feel guilty over my abundance, the stark contrast seems so unfair. Earlier, Jim and I had walked the track on Deck 10 and watched the ship sail away from Key West. Jim texted all of our daughters and they texted him back. I called my dad and learned that our City Guys were repairing broken water pipes all over Ranger. The music in the Degas Lounge seemed a little too loud that night. The rest of the ship was quiet, except for the constant bells and chimes of the casino. We called it a
night shortly after 9 PM. Wednesday and Thursday proceeded likewise and all too quickly. Wednesday we anchored in the Bahama island of Freeport and Thursday we anchored in Nassau. Wednesday was an Island Tour and Thursday was a Historical Highlights tour. Every tour included markets. We bought a few little things, namely four trivets made of fishing line and tiny shells for our daughters. Time will tell if these can withstand the heavy force of a hot, heavy pan crashing down. For demonstration, the island woman tossed one down on a concrete floor—I think Lora could be much more forceful than concrete. We’ll see. The natives were sweet and friendly. Our fellow passengers pleasant. We tend to develop some comraderie when traveling. It’s probably due to all of that laughter! We had lots of fun. Friday was another “Fun Day at Sea”. It was sunny and warm on the outside decks, sipping cool drinks and catching some rays while reading our books and listening to the Calypso music. Saturday, our last “Fun Day at Sea” was rainy, windy, and the ocean was wavey. The exterior doors were blocked and all passengers remained indoors. Jim and I did walk the long, long hallways of Decks 6, 7, and 8. Jim was happy with the football games on TV in our cabin and I was happy with my book. We didn’t even dress for dinner, just ordered room service—turkey sandwiches on toasted bread and chips. A nice conclusion to a very
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lazy, last day of vacation. Rocked and rolled through the night and we liked it. I insisted that we NEEDED to eat a good breakfast on Sunday morning, I knew our cupboards were bare at home. It was still dark as we ate that last meal, then wandered outside to the exterior deck as we entered the Port of Galveston with the sun peaking over the horizon. Our voyage was over. Lucky for us, Deck 6 SelfDebarkation, was called first, right after Early Flights. Jim and I can not only carry our own bags, we can even carry them down the stairs. One man, waiting in line for the elevator said, “Well, good luck with that,” he saw our heavy suitcases. I replied, “The stairs ARE the hardest part.” (But...it IS DOWN stairs!) Customs was easy and fast. The trip from Galveston to Ranger a little bit longer. And slower. Traffic was light in Houston, I don’t remember ever saying THAT before. My biggest fear? A broken water line and a flood. Was that wasted worry? Or answered prayer? Our house was fine, or just like we’d left it anyway! I had no fear of our little grandbaby getting sick, but he did get sick, but he recovered too. Thank the Lord for blessing us, even when we don’t know what to pray for. All’s well that ends well. We had a good trip, thank you, Mike, for asking! Take care, and as always... ENJOY READING!
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
Tales From Hogtown, Carol Pell January and February
Thanks to all who attended the dance last Friday evening. Our attendance was down quite a bit. It was so cold – I wanted to stay home myself! Hopefully the weather will moderate a bit and we look forward to seeing everyone again for the February 12th dance. We have had such wonderful weather the last several winters – now we are paying the piper! One thing we know, it won’t last long. The best thing to do during this cold spell is to read. Come to the library at the DAC Monday through Thursday from 3:00 to 5:00 or Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00. We have lots of books – I’m sure you can find one to interest you. We also have magazines, books on tape and a computer with Internet access. January is the time to renew the DAC calendar for the New Year. Breakfast, of course, will still be served the first Saturday of each month. The dance will be the second Friday of each month. We look forward to getting the dates set for the craft shows and Christmas Store. Keep watching Pig Tales for all the fun things going on at the DAC. See you in Desdemona! Carol Pell
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Carbon
- Then and Now, Linda Neeley The Texas Sandstorm That Lasted For 54 Years...
M o s t schools publish yearbooks or annuals and Carbon High School was no exception. It was called “The Sandstorm.” Each school year all of the students looked forward to its publication. When was the first edition published and where did it get its name? The
1986 Sandstorm staff decided to find out – so they researched and published a history of the book which is reprinted here in its entirety: THE SANDSTORM HISTORY Back in 1936, Mr. H. D. Thomason, Superintendent of Carbon Schools, decided that Carbon should have a
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school annual. Therefore, he put together a group of eight editors, and together with the rest of the seniors, they published the first edition of the Carbon annual. Because of that, on a certain day in 1936, approximately thirty seniors gathered in a classroom with the purpose of naming the first annual. They “brainstormed” for quite some time, coming up with several different ideas, but nothing that they felt suitable for Carbon’s first yearbook. Just when everyone felt like giving up, Arduth Black Been looked out the window at one of the worst sandstorms that can be remembered at Carbon. After viewing the blowing sand, she said to the class, “Why don’t we call it the Sandstorm?” So they did! The Sandstorm first opened up fifty years ago in 1936 during the celebration of Texas’ centennial. Fifty years later, during Texas’ sesquicentennial, the Sandstorm is still in business – better than ever. One thing remains the same, however. The Sandstorm is still in operation
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today for the same reason it started in 1936. “For the purpose of preserving some of the memories of high school days which may fade from the mind’s eye.” This quote comes from the 1936 school annual – The Sandstorm. There were four more editions of The Sandstorm published after 1986 and each adhered to the purpose for which it was originally established. As you most of you may know, I have been on a mission to find a copy of all the annuals published at Carbon High School. I feel fortunate to have located all but the years of 1936, 1938, 1940 and 1941. Therefore, once again, I am asking for your help in locating these last four years. Photos of students prior to 1936 would also be very much appreciated. You may contact Linda at the folowing: phone: 830-598-5613 email: lneeley47@yahoo.com on the web: www.carbonhighschoolreunion.org Your assistance is greatly appreciated.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
■ Tumbleweed
Smith, Big Spring
SIEB’S FLATWOOD SORGHUM
Mike Siebert makes syrup on the family farm near Flatwood, just out of Eastland. “My grandfather made a living here with two mules and a walking plow,” says Mike. He farmed cotton in the early 1900’s.” Mike was the district attorney in Eastland before taking up syrup making. “It’s just something I enjoy doing. I’ll have to admit making syrup is kind of an unusual hobby.” It’s something he tried years ago. “I bought a syrup mill from a gentleman in Carbon probably thirty years ago and tried to make syrup then, but we ended up with what I call green glue. The mill sat unused because I was busy raising a family and trying to make a living like most people. After I retired I got to thinking about it and decided to try it again.” Mike says syrup making in the past was a big part of country living. “Somebody in all these little communities scattered around had a sorghum mill. Families would harvest cane in the fall, then gather at the home of the person who had the mill. They’d make syrup for the next year. It was a social gathering, a social event and at the same time allowed them to have some sweetening for their families for the coming year. Sugar was expensive and some people couldn’t afford it.” He makes syrup from sweet sorghum cane. He planted his first batch in 2007. “That year we had 55 inches of rain, which was unheard of. It took off and it was unbelievable. We had to get the old mill in running order. That was the start of our syrup making.” Mike strips the cane and runs it through a press that squeezes out
the juice. He strains the juice then cooks it in a 60-gallon vat over propane burners. The cooking evaporates the water that’s contained in the juice. “The total time that it’s boiling, you have to constantly skim the impurities off of the top. It’s nice to have some friends and neighbors over to help with the skimming.” One of Mike’s friends made a video of the syrup making process and put it on utube (search for Flatwood sorghum syrup making). Mike labels his product Sieb’s Flatwood Sorghum. He gives most of his syrup to friends. Mike not only grows cane. He also grows a corn patch every year. He picks it the old fashioned way, by hand. He also cleans it by hand, sitting under a shade tree with his pocketknife. Once he gets all the bad kernels out, he shells it in an old John Deere corn sheller. He makes corn meal and gives it to his friends and family. “It makes outstanding cornbread. And being a country boy, cornbread and syrup or cornbread and gravy with blackeyed peas is pretty hard to beat.” The rural life appeals to Mike. He has a barn full of horse buggies and wagons. He’s thinking about getting them in shape to be in parades. He hasn’t had time to miss the courtroom.
■ Tech
- Tips, Cameron Buck, Bryan’s Computers Avoiding Malware, Spyware and Junkware
Malware is the new term for any unwanted program that invades your computer and makes unwanted changes. Spyware, adware, and viruses are all being lumped into this group. There are some great products out there that will help you clean up these infections, but the real trick to keeping your computer is to avoid exposing yourself to them. Here are a few tips: 1. Don’t use file sharing applications. If I see Limewire, Bearshare, or Frostwire on a PC, I can find malware 100% of the time. There is simply no way to safely download with these programs because you can’t trust the source. 2. Never open an email attachment if you don’t know what it is. Even if you know the person who sent the email beware of attachments. Many computers with infections will send out email to everyone on their address book without the owner ever being aware.
3. If you get pop-ups when opening a web page don’t click inside the popup to close it. Always click the red “x” in the upper right corner. The “cancel” or “close” button in the pop-up might have unintended effects. 4. If you get a message from your computer warning you that it is infected and you need to download such and such software to remove the virus, don’t do it. At this point you are already infected, downloading the fake virus remover will only make it worse. No legitimate software ever uses this tactic. 5. Avoid free downloads unless you are absolutely sure you can trust the source. Often these are packaged with a good deal of adware, so be careful. Most of the time good common sense will keep your computer safe. Start practicing safe web viewing and you will find you rarely have a problem with malware.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Business
Feature, Mike Norris
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Bryan’s Celebrates 25th Anniversary “I have learned that if me to walk with him on a little tour of days and memories gone by in the long Telling Room. “That one is for my father one advances confidently the shop. Jackson Family history of the love for more or less, this next one is mine!” in the direction of his “We’re going to be putting in a shipping motorcycles and motorcycle racing. Bryan can’t hold back a smile as he opens dreams, and endeavors to area here with an overhead door”, he As we walked into the first room, Bryan up the door on his own little display. live the life he has imagined, he will meet pointed out as we stepped into the back. started pointing to pictures on the walls... If the first room reminds you of Marlon a success unexpected in common hours.” He then told me the story of how they naming faces, recalling dates. Directing Brando and The Wild One, then this one ~ Henry David Thoreau moved the hose crimping machine to my attention from the photos of his father makes you feel like you just stepped into For the past 25 years, one name in the back one afternoon after he had been circa 1950’s, wearing an iconic leather an arena filled with the sounds of wining Eastland has been synonymous with just dreading it for years when he realized jacket and riding the classic motorcycle, two-stroke engines, roaring crowds, and about anything involving high performance it needed to move. Bryan says with his down to the exact bike sitting there in the the unmistakable smell of moist dirt cars, trucks, bikes, computers, signs and huge characteristic smile, “I couldn’t room with us and the same leather jacket mixed with a dab of gasoline and 2-stroke graphics or even the Internet. And that believe we moved that in 4hrs after I put hanging on a stand nearby. engine oil. name has been Bryan’s. it off for so long!” “My mother rode a bike along with I almost let loose a Tim-the-Tool-ManI claim to have met Bryan Jackson back We then stepped into the old Internet my dad. She didn’t ride with him on his Taylor impression, “Rarrrgh, rarrgh, in the early days of dial-up computer training room where they used to hold bike, mind you – she had her own bike, rarrgh!” networking...before everyone had even computer classes. Bryan has turned that and they rode together,” Bryan points out. Bryan was still talking to me, but I heard of the Internet. Some of my friends room into what I would have called an “And here’s my first little bike. It took was honestly paying more attention to here in Eastland connected to a local ideal living room for a college bachelor. me forever to track this down,” Bryan the Yamaha dirt bike sitting before me BBS (Bulletin Board System) which was I’ve seen pictures of employee break says about the minibike next to me. I between two massive blue columns, more or less the result of a hobby and rooms with video games and exotic take notice of the old Kodak pictures of surrounded by pictures of dirt-throwing, fascination that some of the guys here furniture, but never one with plush theater about a 10 or 12 year old curly headed air-seeking, two-wheeled, motor cross had with computer gaming. At the time, seating, a digital projector, 10-ft movie boy riding what appears to be the exact insanity! And nothing topped it off Bryan was just one of several screen screen and surround sound! same bike I’m standing next to, right better than the mannequin sitting on the names whose faces and real life personas “We call this our family room,” Bryan down to the white pinstripes on the dark dirt bike, in full rider’s gear – helmet, I had never seen or spoken to. chuckles as I look at the movie posters red gas tank. goggles, chest protector, pads, boots, all As most locals know, that hobby grew decorating the walls. We then stepped into the other Story the way down to his gloved hands – one into what became TXOL Internet – which “Man, this is for years was only one of the many awesome!” is the services offered out of Bryan’s one- only thing I can say stop, anything that goes fast, Parts Plus in reply. I swear I auto parts store located on the Eastland could almost smell “Miracle Mile” of East Main Street.. the popcorn. Bryan’s auto parts store was already “We like to get well-known here in Eastland long before the crew together the Internet and before relocating out and enjoy a movie to the Miracle Mile. In the early days, now and then, Bryan’s occupied a storefront on South maybe a football Seaman Street next to the old radio game. Bryan adds, station, across from Coats Furniture. “The Superbowl is Bryan’s soon moved into its current coming up.” location, the much larger bowling center “And over here building, and the extra space allowed the are our two Story enterprising Jackson family to incorporate Telling Rooms.” several businesses under one roof. Auto Bryan directs parts and accessories, computer sales and my attention to service, printed banners signs and vehicle what used to be graphics all found a suitable corner over two rooms filled the years. wall-to-wall When I asked Bryan how he missed with computers, the Internet portion of the business, he networking hubs, said “It was hard to pass on because it display monitors, was such a good business.” He quickly and flashing added, “But we’re better streamlined now ethernet ports. and a tighter family.” Now the walls are I hadn’t been behind the scenes there at covered with full Bryan’s in several years so Bryan invited print murals of Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
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■ Business
Feature, continued...
of which holding up that no-need-for-words #1! Whew! What was Bryan saying? “This is my bike, the one I rode in my last race.” As he was telling me the story of his last race, he showed me the pictures that a sports photographer had captured of his big spill. The whole sequence, frame by frame. The guy had sent it to him after the race as a memento. Ouch! I also noticed some x-rays hanging on the wall but I didn’t ask about them – they pretty much spoke for themselves. For all his broken bones, cuts and scratches, Bryan has won more motocross trophies and championships then I have room to mention. Needless to say, both in business and on the track, Bryan is no stranger to success. And as with riding motocross, you have to be ready for all the bumps and bruises along the way. As we walked back up toward the front counter, I asked him what he had planned for the next 25 years. He smiled that huge Bryan Jackson smile and said “Well, I don’t know, Mike. We’ll just have to take those as they come, I guess.”
Left to right: Dan Morgan, Bryan Jackson, Tina Jackson, Bertie Jackson, KG Jackson, Daniel Jackson, Sierra Jackson, Bill Alrt, Patrick Pitts, Roy Don Rogers and Cameron Buck. Photo courtesy Bryan Jackson
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Eastland
ARNOLD LOCKSMITH SERVICE
County 9/12 Project, Pam White
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BRIAN BIRDWELL, SURVIVOR OF THE 9/11 ATTACK ON THE PENTAGON, TO SPEAK AT LOCAL EVENT
The Eastland County 9/12 Project will be hosting Brian Birdwell on Thursday, February 4, 2010 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM at the Myrtle Wilks Community Center Auditorium in Cisco, Texas. Lt Col (Ret) Brian Birdwell is a survivor of the terrorists’ attacks on 9/11/2001. After the hijacked American Airlines Flight 77 collided into the Pentagon, Birdwell was thrown to the ground and engulfed in flames. Of the burns that consumed 60 % of his body, nearly half were 3rd degree, resulting in the need for 30+ operations. Brian’s recovery has truly been remarkable and spiritually he is stronger than ever before. Together, he and
his wife, Mel, share that spiritual strength and encouragement with other burn survivors and their families through the message of Christ’s love and sovereignty. Brian and his wife, Mel, communicate a compelling message of enduring hope, unwavering faith, undying patriotism and unconditional love. They welcome the opportunity to address groups and are willing to tailor their message for specific needs. With honesty and insight, the Birdwells will encourage, inspire and motivate change in the hearts of all. The mission statement for Brian Birdwell’s “Face the Fire Ministries” exists for the purpose of glorifying Jesus Christ. They hope to do this by helping burn survivors, wounded servicemen and women, their families
and the medical facilities that specialize in their care. Because he and his wife experienced the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges facing survivors of these tragedies, the organization seeks to minister by providing encouragement, hope and financial assistance when needed. Their website is http:// www.facethefire.org/. Brian’s “Face the Fire Ministries” will have a table set up to sell his book, “Refined by Fire” following his presentation. Mr. Birdwell does not charge for speaking engagements, but does ask for donations to his very worthy ministry.
Lee & Joni Bozarth
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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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
of the Past, Luther Gohlke Three Loads of Iron
Almost daily after school, we searched the neighborhood of South Denison, TX for scrap iron, old newspapers and even knocked on doors, asking people if they had any to give us. You see it was the early 1940s. World War II, the big one, was in high gear with Germany and Japan. People, particularly the elderly were ready and willing to do their part to aid in the fight. Members of our society at that time were savers; in the past we wasted nothing. And two young boys collecting and working to make a few bucks could touch the heart of folks and allowed us to haul loads of old papers, scrap iron etc. The two young boys were me and my brother Gene. We were energetic and hard workers at a young age. We understood at an early age the value of a dollar. On one occasion we saw a large pile of scrap iron in a back yard of a certain house about 8 city blocks from our own house. We knocked on the door and an older man acknowledged the knock. “What can I do for you boys?” “We would like your scrap iron.” we replied. He paused. “Are you boys cub scouts” he asked. He further explained that he was saving it for the cub scouts. “Yes sir, we are cub scouts.” We lied. “What troop do you belong to?” he asked. We quickly responded, “Troop 11, Sir.” We were taught by our parents to respect older people, in fact, all people and to say yes sir, no sir,
thank you sir or mam. He told us to take the iron. Immediately we were on our bikes going home to get our wagon and begin the laborious task of hauling three wagon loads of heavy iron to our house. The job finished, neatly piled in our back yard, we proudly told our mother, who was always home, the story. “All we had to do was tell him we were cub scouts,” we bragged. Our mother’s reaction and first question came as a surprise. “Are you cub scouts?” she asked knowing the answer already. We reluctantly said “No, mam” “Did you tell the truth?” she asked “No, mam.” We said in unison. “Then you go back to Mr. Robert‘s house and tell him the truth right now.” We both gulped. This would be hard to do; eat crow; maybe have to take the iron back. The dollars were about to disappear! Gone! All our hard work for nothing, but the worst was yet to come. The trip to Mr. Robert’s house was a slow one. We circled the block on our bikes 2 or 3 times. Finally, the moment of truth, courage came, we had no choice. We knocked on Mr. Robert’s door, hoping he was gone, but he was there. “Sir” I said being the oldest and the natural spokesman for Gene and me; voice quivering, “We are not cub scouts.” “I didn’t think you boys were. No harm, just bring the iron back!” Bring it back! Woe is me, another four hours of hard work. We did haul it back and got a hug from our mom. We also
apologized to Mr. Roberts and to our mom. A lesson learned? What do you think? Yes, we did learn a lesson, in fact, several lessons. Truth, then and now is the best policy. Greed is not acceptable. We see these two Christian principles being broken daily by the liberal media, at the work place and by our peers. It has
become the norm, expected and excused. Three wagon loads of iron and a mom who realized the importance of honesty, integrity, truth and contentment with who we are, what we are, wherever we are and what God has allowed us to have to use here on this earth. We have both always tried to live by these principles throughout our lives.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Texas
Hunter, Jerry Tebay
Five Star Venison Steaks
Well, yet another deer season in the books. Hopefully the 2009-2010 white tail season allowed you to fill your freezers deep. Personally, I did not take a deer this season as I was, yet again, out smarted by a 160 class ten point. I have been bow hunting this deer for two seasons and I’m not sure I’ve even paid any attention, much less given any thought to taking any one of the hundreds of other deer I’ve seen over the last two years. Kind of got some tunnel vision going on, you see. Luckily for me, I did take an elk this past fall in Colorado. To say the least, I have plenty of groceries. Over the years, I have seen many different recipes for venison, but few have I actually liked. Some people like to fry it as chicken fried steaks and others cook it on a grill. Personally, I cook all my game as I would any other meat of the same cut. I generally process the back strap and tenderloins myself. I leave the grinding and sausage making to the pros. Since I process the back strap and tenderloin myself, I can cut it how I like, and how I like it is thick. Both tenderloin and back strap make excellent steaks. Nothing against chicken fried steak, but that’s not the best method of cooking these cuts. Some people use the excuse “chicken frying it takes the gamey taste out of it”. That is not true. It may hide or mask the taste, but it doesn’t remove it. Nothing will. It is not about how you cook it, it is about how you took care of the meat from the second you killed the deer to the time it becomes table fare. If an animal is properly cleaned and cooled, then promptly processed either by you or your favorite processor, then the meat should never have a gamey taste. The best way I have found to cook both deer and elk steak is by using a marinade and a flavor injector. The marinade is used to add flavor and to help keep an otherwise lean meat hydrated while cooking. It is absolutely delicious. You will be very hard pressed to tell it is game meat at all.
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The recipe is as follows: 4 tblsp margarine or butter if you prefer 2 heaping tblsp of Zatarain’s creole seasoning 4 tblsp of Worcestershire sauce 3 tblsp brown sugar 3 tblsp Lawry’s teriyaki and pineapple marinade 2 strips maple bacon Salt and Pepper to your liking.
Begin with two one and a half inch cuts of steak and place it in a small baking pan. Then mix the above ingredients to make the marinade. You will need to microwave the margarine or butter to liquefy it. Wrap the steak with the maple bacon and secure it with a toothpick. The bacon helps with keeping the edges of the meat hydrated as it cooks. Next using a marinade injector, inject each steak with the marinade. Pierce the steaks all over while injecting the marinade. I like to have no more than a quarter inch between injection holes. Try to get as much marinade in the steak as possible. Save the remaining marinade for later. Next, over a hot grill (500F or High) cook the steaks approximately 7 minutes each side or until the inside temperature is about 150. Use the remaining marinade and brush on each side as you turn them. This will produce a medium to medium rare cook. If you like it a little more done, cook until the inside meat temperature is about 160. Be careful not to overcook the meat, both deer and elk are very lean and will dry out quickly past 140 degrees. The result of overcooked venison is not very pleasing at the table. The marinade and bacon gives a sweet smokey taste. The brown sugar will caramelize while cooking creating a sort of icing you will taste with every bite. The Zatarain’s gives just a hint of spice and bite. I also use this recipe on wild hog and store bought pork. If you cook venison as often as I do, you’ll love this recipe. It goes well with almost any drink and the best thing of all is my wife loves it. I hope yours does too….
Wendell Tipton for County Commisioner Pct. 2 I would like to take a moment, if road is higher than the edge of the elected as your county commissioner I road. The roads that I have been on would be doing more than working on picking up trash needs to have the barthe roads. The commissioner’s court ditches cleaned out, by removing the meets twice a month or more to vote tree and brush. Once the ditches have on the bills received by the county. been cleaned then the commissioner The court also discusses and decides can start building the roads up higher on contracts, policies, regulations, and to keep the water out of the roads. This how to spend your hard earned tax dol- is where the crown in the road comes lars. in. The crown keeps the water off the If elected as your County Commis- road. As most of the TAXPAYERS sioner, I will be responsible for repre- know when water stays on the road it senting the TAXPAYERS and listening makes a mud hole. The plan that I have to all your needs. I will be a caretaker is to clean the ditches, so that we can of your hard earned tax dollars. I will pull the dirt out of the ditches and put spend only the tax dollars necessary to back on the road. This will help raise operate productively and in the best in- the road and give a place for the water terest of the TAXPAYERS. I will work to run, not pool in the road. The roads to set a budget for the county that is did not get in this shape overnight. This efficient and will benefit the TAXPAY- is not a little project it will take time ERS. I will not vote to raise taxes un- and hard work. As you know most of less it is absolutely necessary. the roads are rub-boarded. There is one If elected as your commissioner I reason for the rub-boards. That is when will make a special effort to listen to the blade on the Grader starts jumping new ideas and have an open mind about up and down. There are two reasons everything that might benefit the TAX- that the blade is moving. They are bePAYERS. Your commissioner needs to cause the knuckles have some wear be prepared for any and all emergen- and need to have new brushings put in cies to protect you the constituents. As them or the other reason is operating your commissioner I will work dili- the Grader too fast and the front-end gently with all other entities such as gets to bouncing. The only way to fix city, county, federal governments, fire the rub-boards is to cut the road down department, law enforcement, hospi- below the rub-boards, so that the road tal, indigent healthcare facilities, and is smooth, then you can build the road many others. I will make the best ef- back up and keep it smooth. fort to attend to any and all situations I will be available to the public that will arise. As your commissioner I needs seven days a week. I will set will always give 100 percent effort and goals that I would like to see come be a servant to you the TAXPAYERS. true every year to benefit the TAXIf elected as your commissioner I PAYERS. will be responsible for upgrading the I would appreciate your support and county roads, for safer and easier ac- vote in the Republican Primary. cess to and from your home. The roads have been graded flat for so long that Thank you. there is no longer a crown in the road. Wendell Tipton A crown is where the middle of the Paid political advertising by Wendell Tipton, P.O. Box 332, Ranger.Tx 76470
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■ Life
Planning Issues, Jim Kennedy 10 Planning Tidbits for 2010
NFL Quarterback Roger Staubach declared, “Nothing good comes in life or athletics unless a lot of hard work has preceded the effort. Only temporary success is achieved by taking short cuts.” Although we aren’t in the business of coaching athletics, we are in the business of coaching Life and believe that this holds true in any arena and that the most productive hard work is built upon a solid plan. It’s the New Year and what a great time to establish a 2010 checklist for your Life Plan. Whether you have an established plan in place or not, I encourage you to sit down with your significant other and discuss the following: (1) What do you think your total income will be this year? What tax planning strategies can you implement? Not sure? Talk with your tax professionals and Life Planner today so you don’t miss out on expiring opportunities throughout the year. (2) Speaking of income, how much are you planning to spend this year? And on what? Charitable Inclinations? Vacations? Everyday stuff? Don’t know if you are on the right track? Check out the simple 60/40 budget rule in our on-line learning center: www.kennedyfinancial.com.
(3) What is your grade in risk management? Here is a checklist for your checklist: (a) Reviewed your Auto, Home and Liability policies with your Life Planner? (P.S. 99.99999% of the policies we see are not in-line with that families needs) (b) Do you have enough life insurance? Disability Insurance? (c) Should you consider
purchasing long-term care this year? (4) Is your emergency fund sufficient? An emergency fund should be able to cover a minimum of 3-6 months of expenses. (5) Do you have your legal documents in order? When was the last time they were reviewed by an attorney? It’s recommended that they be reviewed every 3 to 5 years to be compliant with current law— due to the current changing estate tax laws, this may especially be critical for large estates. The basic legal documents include, but are not limited to: wills and trusts, durable powers of attorney, medical powers of attorney and living wills. (6) Have you discussed your final wishes with your family? Although this is not the most popular table topic, you can alleviate a lot of hard feelings and help avoid upheaval and bad holiday gatherings after you are gone.
feelings regarding risk tolerance? Is your investment plan structured to keep up with inflation? (10) Last, but not least - what is your LifeScore goal for 2010? Rate yourself 1-10 for your present situation and your 2010 goal on the following 10 Life Issues: Health, Professional Life, Financial Fitness, Spiritual Life, Important Life Relationships, Giving Back, Life-Long Learning, Time Management, Knowing and Focusing on Your Strengths, and Overall Life Plan. A printable version can be found in our on-line learning center. Sounds like a lot to absorb, but in keeping with what Roger Staubach stated, the hard work you put in today can make all the difference for your tomorrow. Securities & Advisory Services offered through VSR Financial Services, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser and Member FINRA/SIPC. Kennedy Financial Services is independent of VSR Financial Services, Inc. VSR does not provide tax or legal advice.
(7) One question on everyone’s mind for 2010: should I convert my IRA or part of my IRA to a Roth IRA? What about my employer sponsored retirement plan? Is it possible to convert it? You are not going to be able to answer this one alone, so bring it up to your Life Planner and talk about the pros and cons. To check out some of the most commonly asked Roth Questions visit our on-line learning center. (8) What are your retirement goals? How much have you saved? How much do you need to save? (9) Do you have a disciplined investment strategy in place that’s in-line with your unique situation, future goals, family dynamics, and
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Rising
Star Library Notes, Ginger Johnson Tobin A Wonderful Place to Spend an Afternoon
Our Rising Star Library is an enticing place to be on a winter’s afternoon; it’s bright, cheery, and warm and has LOTS of books to take you to any corner of the world, for an adventure you’ve imagined only in your dreams. As I’ve mentioned recently, the library has new lights; and they’re all burning; it does make a huge difference in the way the library welcomes each
and everyone who enters. Come give it a try!
OUR WISHES ARE STILL COMING TRUE The Christmas “wish tree” at the library yielded many wonderful gifts from our library patrons; we are so thankful for each and every one of them. This very week, we received another answer to our wishes-reams of printer paper to be used with our computer system, from Sadie and Mike
McGinn. Thanks so much, this will probably last us most of the year. BOOK REVIEW-“God on a Harley” by Joan Brady You might feel exactly like I did when I ran across this book; the title seemed strange to me; but I admit I was intrigued and wondered what the book was like…so I checked it out and am I glad I did! I suppose many of you are like me, I have mostly thought about God the way I’ve seen Him pictured, as a very wise looking Person with a long flowing beard; but sometimes I think of God as a Spirit. Of course, I know that God can be anything He wishes to be, but on a Harley just had not entered my head!
This is a very short book, only 147 pages; I finished it in about 1-1/2 hours one evening recently when my Satellite Dish just was NOT working correctly; and I
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didn’t have anything else to do but read! (Maybe it was meant to be?) I read the book; and was amazed at the knowledge that I gleaned from it. I
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■ Rising
Star Library Notes, continued...
was also amazed that the next day I was still thinking about what I’d read and deciding that I could really benefit and have a better life if I would adhere to the principles listed in “God on a Harley.” Well, I suppose you are realizing that I liked the book. Some might not like it and that’s OK. One of my favorite sayings is “Each to his own.” Listed below are a couple of reviews of this book by others; you will probably get a better picture of what the book is about from them. CYNTHIA SUE LARSON of the San Francisco bay area writes about “God on a Harley.” “When I first saw the title of this book, I must have laughed for several minutes straight. I leafed through a few pages, wondering if the story was any good, and was quite surprised to discover that this spiritual romance novel is not just good—it’s excellent! What if God appeared as a
gorgeous man with long sable hair and a black jacket atop a Harley Davidson 1340cc motorcycle to a single 37 year-old woman? Could this be what it takes to help her shake off the self-limiting behaviors and beliefs that have stood between her and a happy life? You’d better believe it! As our heroine, Christine, slowly begins a life-altering journey to transform her life into one she actually enjoys living, she finds the meaning of love, and the secrets to enjoying a happy life. Even if you normally don’t enjoy romance novels, I’m sure you’ll love “God on a Harley.” This book is sheer genius and can help you see your life in a whole new light!” B. B. LUCAS of Lexington, Kentucky gives a man’s review of “God on a Harley.” “This book was given to me by a female friend who shares a love of reading, as I do. Quite honestly, the title put me off a little. But after
reading it, twice, I came away with a different view on a lot of issues relating to life and relationships on the whole and how women see the same things. I found it to be both inspirational and entertaining at the same time. Moving and thought provoking without being heavy handed or biased from a woman’s perspective. My Christmas shopping included 10 copies which I gave as gifts, and I received several “Thank yous” after they had read it.” MARY CHRAPLIWY of New Jersey gives her viewpoint on “God on a Harley.” “I got this little treasure from the library. I say little because it is very short, but it is jam packed with such truth, such faith. It’s the story of Christine, a burned out nurse who is lonely and downright angry with the way her life has turned out. She bases her life on whether she has a relationship
or not and is increasingly miserable and angry at the start of this fable. Then God arrives. He comes in the form of a handsome stranger on a Harley. Slowly, through this fable, he teaches her what she’s been doing wrong and helps her find the meaning of life. This short book packs a very heavy message…one that will make you re-examine your own thought processes and the direction of your life. It’s a story that will linger in your thoughts for a long time…it will hopefully make you think… make you change…grow.” NOTE FROM THE COLUMNIST: If you are now intrigued to give this book a chance, the call letters at Rising Star Library are “F BRA” (Joan Brady). It will be checked back in soon, but I JUST HAVE TO READ IT ONCE MORE!”
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29•
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Cecil Funderburgh for County Clerk
Hi! My name is Cecil Funderburgh, and I am running for election to the office of County Clerk of Eastland County. I’d like to take just a few moments of your time to tell you about myself and why I want to be your County Clerk. I was born in 1940 at the old Blackwell Hospital in Gorman. My Father and my Grandfather both worked for Texas Electric Service Company in De Leon and Eastland, and I guess I inherited some of their love for electricity, because for many years, I owned and operated my own radio and television repair shop in Gorman. I served four years in the United States Air Force working with electronic navigation systems. I am very happily married to the former Patty Pryor Shannon, and I feel so blessed that God sent her my way! Together, we have six children and ten grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren! Needless to say, family is a very high priority in my life! I love working with people! When I retire from the City, I want to continue my career of public service, and what better way than to serve as County Clerk of Eastland County, where I will come into contact with people every minute of every day, working closely with the County Court. Those of you who know me know that I am dedicated to
service. Those of you that don’t know me, I want the opportunity to show you my level of devotion. I consider myself a person of very high integrity, morals, and character. I’ve always had a desire to work in an occupation where I could help others, so I entered the field of law enforcement in 1979 as a patrol officer for the City of Gorman. I served the citizens of Gorman for eleven years, ten as their Chief of Police, before I moved to Eastland and was appointed Chief of Police for Eastland Police Department in 1990. I taught traffic law, DWI, and accident investigation at the Regional Law Enforcement Academy from 1983 until 2004. I also serve as Emergency Management Coordinator and Floodplain Administrator for the City of Eastland. I am currently in my 20th year of service to the citizens of Eastland, and I am looking forward to many more years of service to Eastland County. I have served on the Eastland County Child Welfare Board, the Board of Directors of Eastland County Crisis Center, Eastland County Crime Stoppers, the Eastland County Dispatch Advisory Board, and the Criminal Justice Advisory Committee and Homeland Security Committee for West Central Texas Council of Governments. I served as president of the Eastland County Law Enforcement Association,
vice-president of the Eastland County Peace Officers Association, and served for several years on the Gorman Volunteer Fire Department. In 1984, I was honored as Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Eastland County Newspapers, received the Community Service Award from the City of Gorman in 1990, and Eastland Kiwanis Club Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 1993. Also in 1993, I received the Employee of the Year award from the City of Eastland. I was honored as Rotarian of the Year in 1995, received the Community Service Award from the City of Eastland in 2000, and received the Public Safety Excellence Award from the Eastland Chamber of Commerce in 2004. In 1994, I applied for and was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services division to help start the Eastland County Crisis Center to provide services to victims of family violence. That organization has grown and evolved into the Crime Victims Assistance Center and the Child Advocacy Center in Eastland, providing services to children and victims of sexual assault and family violence. I started the “Light Up
Our Kids” program in 1991, the Bicycle Safety Program in 1994, and the Eastland Citizens Police Academy in 1995. I mention these accomplishments to illustrate my passion for innovation and positive change. Our world is a great place, and with just a little effort, we can make it better. I think that my background in public service as administrator of two law enforcement agencies and my record of professional integrity make me well-suited and qualified to serve as your County Clerk. During my 30+ years of service to the public, I have never forgotten that I work for YOU... the taxpayers. My record of fairness and impartiality will be continued in my new capacity as your County Clerk, if I am elected. I expect the County Clerk’s office, under my guidance, to be a professional, efficient, and customer-friendly place. I firmly believe that an elected official should be much more than just an employee, and I would expect no less from my staff! I am asking for your vote, your influence, and your support in the Republican primary election on March 2, 2010. Thank you! Cecil Funderburgh
Paid political advertising by Cecil Funderburgh, 413 E. Foch St., Eastland, TX 76448 Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
■ Outdoors
With The Game Warden, Zach Havens Rain on a Tin Roof
The weatherman f o r e c a s t e d widespread rain for Thursday the 28th of January and actually got it right. I had planned to take a day off from Game Warden duties and catch up on jobs around the house. My list of honey do projects starts growing in September when dove season begins and continues to grow until deer season ends in January. The prospect of purposely working outside in the pouring rain did not look as good as my wife’s offer. She suggested that I ride with her to run a few errands. I agreed to go even though I was thinking about traveling to a covered boat slip on Lake Leon and bouncing a crappie jig off the lake bottom.
many different topics the ladies in the beauty shop covered in less than 35 minutes. I learned about death, divorce, dating, child care, rat poison, in-laws and the cost of beauty. Guys, the next time you see a woman with highlights in her hair, just think about that rod and reel combo you have wanted and buy it. The new fishing pole costs less and will last a lot longer than the hair tint.
The day started with me being held captive at a beauty shop located near Morgan Mill. I understand the culture of the barber shop but this beauty shop experience had me backed into a corner. I counted how many steps it was to the door and looked for an alternate escape route. My wife did offer for me to stay in the car. I wished I had. I did my best to hide behind my laptop and give the impression that I was lost in work and oblivious to the conversations around me. I was amazed at how fast and how
Crappie on area lakes are staged in deep water and are biting steady on jigs and minnows. Big crappie are biting slow. Small crappie are hitting jigs hard enough to make a fishing pole bend. The measuring board dictates that they are released if they are less than ten inches long. Most of the crappie I have looked at over the last two weeks are thick. I have heard of a few 14” long fish being caught but have not seen any.
The sound of rain on the tin roof of the beauty shop reminded me why I had agreed to come on this trip. The steady rhythm of the rain covered up the sound of the ladies visiting and gave my mind a chance to think about crappie fishing and deer antlers.
and did not see a single deer antler on the wall. Can you still remember the antlers from the first buck that you killed? My first buck was a pencil horned eight- point that I killed in San Saba County when I was about thirteen years old. I have killed bigger deer since but nothing compares to seeing that small eightpoint hit the ground. I remember cleaning that set of antlers and placing them on a book self in my room. I glanced at that set of antlers when I was supposed to be doing homework or going to sleep and relived the hunt several times. My son recently killed his first buck. We made a European skull mount out of his buck and have it displayed in his room. I hope he will enjoy his first set of antlers like I have enjoyed mine. Be careful. See you in the woods, on the water and maybe the beauty shop (if you are brave enough).
I looked around that beauty shop
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Out
of the Box, Joellen Hodge Turn Me Off
I am not a big fan of watching television. Lets face it, most of what we see on the screen is immoral, repetitive and in bad taste. I would rather watch a three hour documentary about paint drying on the side of a barn, than have to sit through ten minutes of Housewives of Orange County. As bad as that type of programming can be, the worst just might be the commercials. There is a 30 second ad on television for a popular laundry detergent. Some pre-teen girl moaning and groaning about having to wear a pair of hand-me-down jeans instead of the $100.00 pair she wanted at the mall. Seems Mom got stains out of the jeans with the Tide and now this unlucky, mistreated child is forced to walk around in her sister’s perfectly good pants. Gads, where is child protective services when you need them? This is the sort of mindset that television has brought into our lives. An hour of television has an average of 15 to 20 minutes of commercials in it. Most television ads are about 30 seconds long. So you and your family can be exposed up to 40 ads an hour!
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I want to re-write that laundry detergent commercial. This time, lets have the kid pulling her own jeans out of the dryer and holding them up. Mom and Dad are too tired to do the laundry of a half grown girl. They are both working to pay for the house they all live in and the ridiculously high utility bills needed to keep her skinny butt warm in the winter. Anyway…she holds the pants up to the camera and tells us how smart her Mom is to know how to get stains out of old jeans and make them wearable again. She goes onto say the money they saved was used to buy Grandma a new pair of eyeglasses since her benefits don’t cover eye care. Then she actually hangs the pants up so they will be ready for school on Monday morning.. She gets to sell another box of product and we get an example of how people are supposed to act. Check me out at the following sites:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5820436_make-hot-pickled-eggs.html http://www.bboxlady.com http://www.examiner.com/x-35302-Rural-Family-Examiner
Y’all…go be nice to each other…
Your kids are sitting there, soaking up all these images of products they are told they need. Acne medicine, hundred dollar jeans, computers, etc., etc., and etc. Want to know why you are spending so much on your shopping trips? You are a being a good provider for your family and you learned from television that good mommies and daddies buy only certain products. Yea…we “grown-ups” are just as likely to fall into the trap as well. The biggest problem with all this imaging is every one thinks they deserve whatever they saw. And we don’t. We only deserve what we are willing to work for. That goes for kids and adults. Everyone wants a good car, but not everyone works for it. You have to match your wants to your efforts. If they don’t balance out, then you better get another job or go back to school. And don’t tell me that’s not fair, because guess what? Life is not fair. Nobody gets a certificate of fairness on the day they are born. Now is a good time to put limits on what you allow into your home. The constant in-your-face sales pitches from television are a danger to family happiness. Sit down and talk honestly to your loved ones about your beliefs in spending and saving. Tell them what is important and what will not be tolerated in your home. It is one of the greatest lessons you will ever teach. Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
■ From
The Backside, Henry J. Clevicepin
Kennedy & Brown, Obamo & Tiger Something old, something new, somebody lied, and one’s going down by two. By Henry J. Clevicepin and Collaborated by Nellie Frecklebelly and Agnes & Ophilia Fudpucker
Well, it’s been kinda sad around Buzzard’s Roost this month. Me and my ol buddy Joe Bond from over around Ranger lost a very dear friend to a battle with cancer earlier this month. Terry “Pete” Peeples wasn’t just our friend……as Pastor Paul at the Leon River Cowboy Church said, you could see how many friends he had cause that big old church building was packed tighter than a George Strait concert…standing room only. And that funeral procession was longer than a well rope. Now ol Estee K. ask me just how long a well rope was and I had to explain to him that it is twice as long as it is from the middle to one end. Everybody’s gonna miss oh Pete, with that tooth pick hanging out of the corner of his mouth and that sheepish grin that look kinda like an old mule eatin briars. Rest in peace ol buddy !!!!!!!! And them Democrats up in Washington kinda got stirred up this week when that Republican Scott Brown gave’em a little butt whuppin in that race for Ted Kennedy’s old seat in the U.S. Senate. That seat had been held by a Kennedy for over 50 years. I imagine Obama wished he hadn’t made fun of ol Brown’s little truck now. Ol Estee K. allowed as to how Obama was about the
best weapon the Republicans had, since every time he went to help somebody campaign, they got their butt spanked. Now he is headed out to Nevada to help Harry Reid….right on Mr. Prez….I hope he goes to help Nancy Pelosi next….now that’s change we can finally believe in !!!!!!!! Maybe now, since they don’t have that little 60 vote monopoly, they will come out of those locked rooms and let the world in on what is happening. What happen to all of them promises Obama made 7 or 8 times about we would be able to see all of the negotiations on C-Span? Even the big wheel over C-Span called him up and ask him about it, but he still wouldn’t open up the doors. Now surely when he was running for President, Obama wasn’t running around lying to all of us just to get in office was he??????? Oh, tell me it ain’t so !!!!!! We can’t wait to see how he is going to dress this State of the Union message up and tell us how good things are. Like that old saying…you can put lipstick & earrings on a pig, but you still got a pig. And he ain’t got enough lipstick to put on this pig to make it look good. He just don’t get it, that unemployment is still going up and everybody is so broke if fat geese was a nickel a pound, most people couldn’t kiss a small hummingbird’s
butt. Every time he opens his mouth the stock market and money markets go down. If you actually count the people who give up looking for a job, we have 17% unemployment, we got them goofy radical Muslims killing people over here again like at Ft Hood and that Fruit of the Loom bomber that almost brought that airplane down and now Osama Bin Ladin saying we’re going to have more killings over here soon. And Obama’s running around like he doesn’t know if he is washing or hanging out ????? Like ol Estee K. said the other day….”this is one of them …wake your buddy up, cause he ain’t seen a wreck one like this one”.!!!! And how about all them deals he made those Senators from different states to get them to vote for his healthcare deal……that is unconstitutional, immoral, illegal and anything else you can think up about it….in the real world it is called bribery and you would
go to jail for it, but them crooks up there play by different rules than we do. And last but not least, we heard this week that ol Tiger Woods was in a sex rehab down in Mississippi. Now ol Estee K. was wondering what in the cornbread world do they do in a sex rehab center. Estee K. said, why not just send him down here to our local Buzzard’s Roost vet and get him neutered…..problem fixed !!!!! That way he can keep his putter in his bag and go back to playing golf !!!!! Estee K. just amazes me how he can take a problem so complex and come up with a simple answer !!!! Words of Wisdom from Henry J : I disagree with Kay Jewelers…..I bet more kisses begin with Budweiser that they do with Kay !!!!!! You can email ol Henry J at: henryjclevicepin@aol.com
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Texas
History - Count Down to the Alamo, Part 2, Mike Norris
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January and the First Weeks of February, 1836 JANUARY, 1836 San Antonio, Texas Word has already reached the Texian commander, Sam Houston, that the Mexican president and military general, Antonio López de Santa Anna, was marching north in an effort to retake Texas. After the loss of the Alamo garrison in early December, Santa Anna was angered and determined to remove the influence of American foreigners from the embattled Mexican territory. The Mexican forces had left several cannons, including an 18-pounder, when they surrendered the garrison to Texian forces on December 9th, 1835. Since taking possession of the poorly converted mission, the Texians had worked to strengthen their defenses. The Texians had constructed various catwalks which allowed defenders to easily fire of the walls, however they were afforded very little protection while doing so. The acting garrison commander, Colonel James Neill, requested aid and supplies stating “If there has ever been a dollar here I have no knowledge of it.” Neill’s request for supplies fell to Sam Houston who sent Colonel James Bowie
■ Supporting
and 30 men to assist Neill with the removal of the Maxican cannon and to abandon the garrison. When Bowie arrived, Neill persuaded him of the importance of the Alamo’s strategic value. Bowie sent a letter to acting Texian governor, Henry Smith, arguing “The salvation of Texas depends in great measure on keeping Bexar out of the hands of the enemy.” Bowie added, “Colonel Neill and myself have come to the solemn resolution that we will rather die in these ditches than give it up to the enemy.” Throughout the month of January, the Texian forces at the Alamo garrison worked to strengthen their position and made repeated calls for aid. FEBRUARY, 1836 Alamo Garrison, Antonio, Texas
B. Travis. Only a few days later, a small group of Tennessee volunteers arrived led by the Tennessee statesman, Davy Crockett. On February 11, Colonel Neill left the Alamo in an effort to recruit additional reinforcements and procure supplies. Before departing, Neill placed Travis in command but afterward, the mostly volunteer force elected to follow Bowie
based on his reputation as a spirited fighter. Bowie and Travis agreed to share command. On February 12, Santa Anna’s forces crossed the Rio Grande river. The Mexican force marched northward through heavy winter snows and on February 21, the Mexican army reached the Medina River, only 25 miles from San Antonio de Bexar. To Be Continued...
San
In the first week of February, 30 men arrived at the Alamo under the command of Colonel William
Our Local Schools, by Mike Norris
For 2010, The County Line will once again be available for home delivery! But that’s not all...we have also taken on the goal to help raise money to support our local schools. If you would like to have The County Line delivered directly to your home each month...or you would like to give The County Line as a gift to a friend or loved one...please visit our TEAM-WOLVERINE.COM
website and read how we are turning home delivery of your favorite monthly publication into a fund raising drive for our local school districts! Home delivery is inexpensive and convenient, and will help raise money for a good cause. Please visit TEAM-WOLVERINE.COM and learn more. Thank you!
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Happy Valent ine’s Day!
•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29
Advertise Online With
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ February, 2010 v3.29• ■ Daily
Devotional, Wanda Skinner
The Importance of Family
Wanda Lee Beck Skinner © January 19, 2010 I have done genealogy and inspirational articles for many years and in this issue I will combine the two. The inspiration will be one that deals with how creatures teach us lessons about life. I read an inspiration about the lark one day that touched my heart. Did you know the lard does not sing when it sets on the nest? But when it begins to fly away it begins to sing. The higher it flies the louder the song. Interesting isn’t it. The question came to me, do I sing when I am safe at home? I wonder why this is true. Do you think maybe the bird is so busy caring for her family she does not sing on the nest. I do not know many of us get so busy with the chores and duties of life at home we do not think about the wonderful blessing we have nor are we thankful for the most precious possession on earth: the family we have. Our song of joy and peace should be seen and heard by them first and then it should spread for others to hear. Remember that someone is watching and listening to your actions and your deeds. Genealogy is indeed an interesting study and it is a never ending study. A friend of mine commented that she was a relative of a famous man long ago. Her words fell on closed ears. One day she reminded me of her relative and I went to the internet and typed in the name. I quickly found the man’s history and a lot of great clues to help her put together a notebook of her ancestor. It just so happened that she was also kin to the first president of America by adoption. You just never know what jewels are there to be uncovered. Please remember to check out the clues and find real proof such as birth, marriage, death and tombstones. Then a word of warning, if every person were no more interested in their family history than you are, would that history be lost to future generations?
■ Footnotes, Announcements and Parting Thoughts
Recent Low Temps, Other Issues Slow King Kong’s Progress The frigid temperatures recently experienced in the area caused several issues that have delayed portions of the major work dubbed King Kong in the city. The first delay was with the city’s portion of sewer line replacement in the 300 Block of South Daugherty. The freezing temps caused numerous water line leaks throughout the city and took the crews working on Daugherty Street elsewhere. The city has since resumed the Daugherty Street work. The temperature drops also caused several issues with the major water line replacement that is currently underway along South Daugherty from Commerce to Plummer. Crews with Darnell & Dickson ran into other issues with work at the intersection of Commerce and Daugherty that started their delays. Once crews were ready to begin trenching for the water line replacement, it was found that the concrete base under the brick surface of the street was much thicker than anticipated. This issue called for the need to use jackhammers and other equipment to remove the extra thick concrete causing a slow down in the overall schedule. It was anticipated that the work was to be past the ER drive off Daugherty on Friday and if all goes well, the work should be to Plummer by the end of this coming week. Please remember if you have NON EMERGENCY reasons to visit Eastland Memorial Hospital, or Dr. Maples’ Clinic, you MUST enter the large hospital/Church of Christ/Maples Clinic parking area from Walnut Street. Walnut is one block west of Daugherty. For EMERGENCY entry to EMH, please use OLIVE Street to the ambulance entrance. The project continues with other crews working along South Seaman from Valley south to Lens. Additional work continues on North College (Hwy. 3101) as well as along the old Bankhead Highway. Just a reminder, when travelling in these areas, please be alert and watch for crew members and heavy equipment. Residents and businesses in the areas are also reminded that water service interruptions may be necessary at times during the work.
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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
Angel Food Ministries
February Cut-Off Date Wednesday February 17th Distribution Saturday February 27th Call Ilene (254)442-1969 www.angelfoodministries.com
March 2, 2010 Primary Election Information Voters may begin calling Cathy Jentho, County Clerk, now to see if they are eligible to vote by the mail procedure. 254-629-1583. February 1, 2010 is the last day to register to vote Early Voting Period February 16-26, 2010 County Courthouse 8:00 AM-5:00 PM February 20, 2010 7:00 AM-3:00 PM Saturday extended voting hours at County Courthouse
For questions or comments please contact Eastland City Hall at 629-3349.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com