This Issue....
Holiday Recipes!
Sleepy Gomez is Carving Out A Niche!
Business & Community Journal
December, 2009
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NEW WEBSITE ► www.mycounty-line.com
Jerry Tebay, Texas Hunter
Some Favorite Recipes... In case you’re still hungry after the holidays! ►► See page 22
Christmas Trees & Window Dressing! ►► See “On the Cover”
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
Volume 2 Issue 27
December, 2009
On The Cover:
vol.2 Issue 27
Contents
James Brookhart, of The Gold Lantern, enjoys decorating Christmas trees so much that one is never enough!
Happy Holidays, friends and neighbors!
James Brookhart of The Gold Lantern has been busy spreading Christmas cheer! Photo by mwnorris
In This Issue:
Growing Up Small Town
Sleepy Gomez Out of the Past Gorman I.S.D. Rising Star Library Clint Coffee Tumbleweed Smith Ranger Library EMH Volunteers Jim Kennedy Texas Hunter Political Hot Seat Lone Star Youth Outdoors
Favorite Recipes From the Backside Footnotes
On The Web:
More Articles... Advertiser Lists... Distribution Maps... Breaking News...
Starting around October of every year, I start getting into the holiday mood. Every month from October through January (yes, I said January,) is one fun holiday event after another.... bam, bam, bam-bam, and bam! October has Halloween, November has Thaksgiving, and December has the double-header, Christmas and New Year’s. Then January follows up with my birthday! Haha! That’s four straight months of big goings-on around my family, and I’m sure most of those events affect your families as well. Oh, and I didn’t even mention hunting season, my mother’s birthday, my daughter’s birthday ~ my gosh did I forget anything? How many people wish we could just work 9 months out of the year so we could take October through December off for restoring our ties with Faith, Family and Friends? Works for me! Needless to say, quite a few of us squeeze more into the holidays than we might do otherwise. For example, James down at The Gold Lantern must love to decorate Christmas trees. When it comes to decorating Christmas trees, James is the exact opposite of myself. Ruthie has to beg me to help her with the Christmas tree every year, mainly because I’m just lazy. But if I have to untangle a single strand of Christmas lights, I feel like I have accomplished my assigned duties of house decorating and it is ok for me to return to watching TV. Of course, Ruthie delights, or not so much, in waiting until I get comfortable again before calling back in for the assist. It’s gone beyond tradition now, it’s become procedure. So when James contacted me to come down to the Gold Lantern to take some photos of their Christmas tree display, I was happy to hop in my truck and drive over. When I got to The Gold Lantern, I began admiring the “green” tree next to the counter while James finished up with a customer. While I was waiting, I took notice of their “upside-down” tree and the “red” tree that was obviously visible. But James surprised me when he told me that they had seven Christmas trees this year and wanted to feature all of them in the County Line! “Seven? I see three,” was my reply. Then James pointed out the “white” tree, the “country” tree, the “black and gold” tree, and the “half” tree! And not only did he decorate each tree, but he surrounded each tree with colorfull gifts and home decor to match each tree setting...including suspended ornaments and decorations from the ceiling! “Wow,” was the only thing I could say. So I took photos and I placed the fullpage collage of Christmas trees in the November issue of The County Line. And if you turn to page 26 of this issue, you’ll see the collage once again. But people, please trust me when I tell you, this paper is not able to do justice to the vibrant colors and creativity which is on display at The Gold Lantern. I wish it did, but it doesn’t even come close! James called me again this week and told me that he had been working on the window displays down at the Connelle Hotel and asked if I could go by and get some more pictures and mention it in this issue. James also told me that he had another tree in the Roof Garden of the Connelle and that Ann Folsom had a tree on display in the Connelle lobby. If you need a little inspiration or some Christmas tree therapy, go by The Gold Lantern and talk to James. ~mwnorris
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The County Line is published monthly and distributed in the following cities: Albany Baird Breckenridge Carbon Cisco Cross Plains DeLeon Desdemona Eastland Gordon Gorman Olden Ranger Rising Star Strawn Thurber
Thank you for reading The County Line! Mike &rris Ruth No
Photo by mwnorris
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Growing
Up Small Town, Mike Norris
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Showering with Watermelons & Mountain Biking on Park Hill
When I was a kid and we lived here in Eastland, I remember walking from our house on West Main Street pretty much to anywhere in town I wanted to go. I loved walking down to Alsup’s with a handful of quarters to play video games. I remember hitting Alsup’s practically every day, either to spend my quarters or to pick up a loaf of bread or a couple of Cokes and Dr. Peppers for mom, myself and my sister. During the summers, my aunt and uncle would harvest watermelons on their place in Kokomo and bring them to our house so my cousin and I could peddle them to passers-by. I don’t remember what we charged for the watermelons but I do remember having Tupperware boxes full of $1 bills and $5 bills, nickels, dimes, and quarters. And we thought we were making a killing! There’s a couple of fun stories that my cousin and I remember from those days. I think our favorite is the day we decided to hide the water hose in the stack of watermelons... I’m sure your mind is stirring over the possibilities, because obviously the Texas summers are so hot that people look for any and all ways to cool off. And I’m sure nothing is as refreshing as an ice-cold shower spray while searching for the ripest watermelon in some stranger’s yard!
By the way, if you are the poor old lady who drove by our watermelon display with the windows rolled down in your car, we are still very, very sorry. Honest. Yes, that was a scolding that we have never forgotten. Another funny story from those days is the day that my good friend...(I’ll tell you his name in a minute)...and I decided to go bike riding. I had my cool, yellow bike, and my friend didn’t have a bike that day – I can’t remember why. So we decided to ‘borrow’ my sister’s cool purple bike, complete with purple and pink, sparkley handlebar tassels! Well, my buddy refused to ride my sister’s bike, something about it not being as cool as I thought it was, so I let him ride my bike and I rode my sister’s. We rode around the block a couple times and eventually ended up on Park Hill. We eventually ended up on the north-side parking lot near the flag pole, doing our normal daredevelish, death-defying, Evel Knievel stunts. (for you youngsters, Evel Knievel was ~our~ Tony Hawk, Jeremy McGrath or Ricky Carmichael) My sister’s bike didn’t have brakes... so obviously, due to safety and liability concerns, we parked
it leaning against one of the many large boulders. My cool yellow bike, on the other hand, had awesome brakes! And we devised a method to test not only the awesomeness of my bike’s braking system, but also the fearlessness of ourselves. “No Fear!”...yea, we invented that. So it was my turn on the bike, and I peddled myself into a blur of tennis shoes and pumping knees...straight at the rocky bluff along the side of Park Hill. And at just the right moment, I slammed on the brakes! Sliding the bike sideways! Gravel and rocks flying out over the edge of the shear cliff into oblivion! And me and the bike come to a complete stop only inches for certain death! “HA! Beat that! Man, you can’t beat that!” Oh the challenge was on, the bar was set. Just how close can you get to the edge without going over? You can’t get any closer than that! Well, my buddy was determined to prove me wrong. And I knew he was gonna give it a hard try. So I had to slide down the side of the cliff so I could eye-level with the edge. Because the only way he could get closer was to be within little bitty inches of the edge.
I had to be close so I could see it for myself. So off he goes! He gets back so he can make a running start. Here he comes. He’s coming now. Oh he’s going fast! Ok, here he comes! He’s hitting the brakes! Oh the gravel is flying! It’s gonna be close! Oh crap!!! At some point, both of us realized that as cool as my yellow bike was, it still could not fly. And the look on both of our faces is burned into my memory. That little kid in that movie “Home Alone” where he slaps on the aftershave...that little second before he starts screaming...that was us, we invented that. A few seconds later, my buddy was laying flat on his back, head-first, half-way down the cliff. And I don’t know which one of them I was more concerned about – my buddy or my bike. Miraculously, neither was hurt... but to this day, I have not forgotten the look on my buddy’s face when he used my yellow bike to invent another social icon – The Air Jordan! Ain’t that right, Mike?
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 ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Special
Feature, Mike Norris
z e m o G Sleepy
Introducing...
Carving Out A Niche Rising Star man turns plain wood into works of art. If you happen to run into Sleepy Gomez, it won’t take long to realize he is anything but what his self-assumed nickname implies. Most days, you can find Sleepy working in his shop next to his home in Rising Star, sculpting a piece of mesquite wood into a wooden worshipper, a dancer or even a “chupacabra.” Where did Sleepy get his nickname? Born Mike Atwood, Sleepy legally changed his name about 35 years ago just so he could enter a stock car race. And the name just sort of stuck. It didn’t have anything to do with Snow White and the seven dwarfs, but he could’ve easily changed his name to “Happy” because these days, that is what he is. He is an artist and a sculptor who finds inspiration for his mesquite wood pieces in nature. The mesquite in each sculpture is meticulously chosen by Sleepy, who wanders among the acreage of mesquite next to his property and other areas around Rising Star until he finds just the right piece of wood. Most times, the wood is still attached to a tree and most, he has to cut it down himself. “You have to stand at a certain angle to see a shape,” Sleepy said, adding that when he finds just the right piece, he never really knows what it will turn out to be until it is done. So now, he spends his days hunting for unique pieces of mesquite. And his neighbors, Weldon and Arla Hill and David and Sara McGowen, are happy to help. “His sculptures are very unique, and we don’t ever mind him coming out on our property and looking for mesquite,” said Arla Hill. The McGowens are always happy to oblige. “We’ve got lots of mesquite on our property in the country, so he just goes out there and looks for what he wants,” said Sara McGowen, wife of David. “The sculptures are very neat – he is quite talented.”
Photos courtesy SG
Jack of all trades Sleepy is a jovial guy with an infectious smile – an artist, dreamer, philosopher and a jokester who has done everything from welding, building and designing printing presses to making fountains and chandeliers from copper. He’s also built and raced cars, been the technical adviser and writer for an auto racing magazine, a grocery store owner and even ran his own waste removal company for a while near the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Oh yes, and he also builds and flies model airplanes and writes about them, too. He just finished a one-act play and children’s stories, too. Sharon, his wife of 31 years, says it is not easy living with such a creative guy, but she loves them. “He is always doing something and sometimes he starts too many projects at once,” she laughed. “And sometimes he needs a little direction, but don’t we all?”
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27•
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 ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Special
Feature, continued
At 69, Sleepy is not nearing retirement, either. “I could’ve been a doctor or a lawyer, but I wanted to work with my hands,” Sleepy said. Foray into woodworking After he graduated from high school in Ennis more than 50 years ago, he bounced around to several colleges, but finally found his calling when he went to University of North Texas at Denton. “There I took a woodworking class and basic welding,” he said. He then went on to his main vocation, machining and welding pressing and work with a custom architectural metal design firm in Dallas. He even fashioned some of the stainless steel areas around the baggage claim at the Dallas/Fort Worth airport. Then he began making custom copper light fixtures and fountains, which he still does today. Basically all Sleepy needs to hear is that something cannot be built, and he’ll figure out a way it can be. But the twists and turns on the track of Sleepy’s life finally led him to the small community of Rising Star, where he and Sharon stopped about a yearand-a-half ago. And it is there, where folks traveling on U.S. Highway 183 will see a sign on the side of the road in front of his house advertising his creations. Another sign hangs in the showroom that reads “Welcome to Sleepy’s Workshop,” which invites visitors to take the time to enjoy his pieces both of copper and mesquite that are also for sale. If he is not out hunting too early – in the afternoon he’ll take one of his dogs like Jones, his boarder collie, or Wagner, whom he calls a “brown leaper.” “He’s brown and he leaps,” Sleepy said with a laugh. Wooden sculptures When the muse hits him, it hits hard. First he cuts the wood down from the tree with a chain saw. Then he trims it and uses an electric sander to get the smooth texture. As the shape takes form, he finally uses a file and fine sandpaper. The finishing touch is several coats of polyurethane. “You can keep these outside for a while with a few coats of that,” he said. His mesquite sculptures range in size from three to four feet up to six feet tall. He is now working on a seven foot piece that he envisions as a “Sasquatch,” known to many as “Bigfoot,” one of his largest creations. “It may take a while to finish this one,” he said. For now, if you want to look at Sleepy’s artwork, you just have to make the trip. But soon, he hopes to have a Web site up and running. And don’t look for his fountain of creativity to dry up any time soon. “Being creative is hard sometimes, but I never get tired of it,” Sleepy said.
Follow-up Notes: Before reprinting the Abilene Reporter News article, I spoke to Sleepy on the phone and met with him in Rising Star. It’s true, he’s got a larger than life spirit and an infectious laugh. We spoke about flying model airplanes and driving race cars. He told me the story of “Sleepy Gomez” and had me laughing along with him. Hopefully, we’ll hear more out of Sleepy in the months to come. In the mean time, Sleepy’s website is located at www.sleepysworkshop.com and his work can also be seen at Stone’s Antiques in downtown Rising Star.
Reprinted with permission from Abilene Reporter News, June 7th, 2009
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Out
of the Past, Luther Gohlke Ol’ Coon
It was a typical Monday morning late 1970’s, Walnut Street Clinic, Ranger, Texas, a myriad of usual phone calls, and a crowded waiting room. Ol’ Coon was next, I can’t remember his real name, but we all just called him Coon. This day he arrived early, anxious to be seen as were other folks in distress. The nurse put him in the first office where he nervously waited. He was about 6’2” tall, skinny as a rail, white male, khaki shirt, jeans and a pair of old worn out cowboy boots, bald headed, over 60 yrs old, bow legged and a thin face with squinty eyes. He appeared shaky, tense, embarrassed, shuffling his feet around and leaning back and forth. Now Coon was an old cowboy never really ever had a steady job except for breaking horses and half way training them. Kids all raised, he and his wife lived alone just north of Ranger, just a small 4 room house with flower beds and a small fence around it on 4-5 acres of land. He also owned an old nag or 2 and an old worn out pickup. Coon was an honest man, poor but honest, gave to the bottle some, but always paid his bills. “Morning Coon” I said as I walked into the office, closed the door and sat down. “Morning Doc” he replied. “You havin’ a problem?” I asked. “Shur am doc. I got the scours.” He whispered nervously looking at the door to make sure no one heard him. Scours, for some of you who might not know is another name for diarrhea in cattle. He was of the old school, very modest and didn’t want anyone to hear him. “How long you been sick?” I asked. “Well Doc, it all started yesterday
afternoon, ya know it being Sunday and all I decided to tuff it out. The Mrs. and I were sitting on our front porch in our rockers enjoying the spring sunshine. We ain’t got no TV ya know so after dinner sittin’ there, it hit me, ya know, the scours. Man Doc, my belly cramped up and I mean I had to go bad. Doc, I struck out for the out-house in a hurry. It sits out to the west of our house ya know we don’t have any indoor facilities don’t you know Doc?” “Yea, I knew that Coon” I responded. “I headed down that path, moving as fast as I could and I immediately observed that the fence gate was latched. We have to keep it closed on account of the wife’s little dog. I knew I had to make a quick decision - should I unlatch it or should I take a chance and scissor it” And in as serious a voice as I’ve ever heard he said “I decided to scissor it and Doc that were a mistake.” He went on to describe the cleaning up process, which I won’t go into. It was difficult, but I had to keep a sincere, sympathetic, professional look on my face. I wouldn’t have embarrassed him for any thing because he was very sensitive and I had a lot of respect for him as a patient and friend. Then he said “I took baking soda and water, it was all we had, but Doc I ain’t doin’ no better.” “Take these little pills, Coon, and you’ll be better in a few hours.” I said as I handed him some samples.” “Doc I don’t know what we’d do without you. These sure are little pills, must be dynamite” he said as he walked out the door. “Take care Coon.” “See you later Doc.”
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Gorman,
I.S.D., John Howard, Jr. ~ jhoward@gorman.esc14.net
Music At Gorman High School
Even though marching season has officially come to an end, the students of music have been very involved in the art of making music. Presently, we are in preparation for the upcoming Christmas Concert, which is scheduled for Thursday, December 17 at 6:30 PM in the Auditorium. In addition, several students have been actively engaged in ATSSB and TMEA auditions. As was recently reported, Jaylon Miley was selected to perform in the ATSSB District Band performance, which took place on Saturday, the 14th of this month in Glen Rose, Texas. This was an amazing concert exhibiting the extraordinary talent that the students of Region 7 have acquired in their short musical education. The District High School band played the following selections: Midway March, Amazing Grace, Haunted Carnival, and Flight of the Piasa. In addition, James Thomas competed in two rounds of the annual TMEA vocal competition, in which he was chosen to perform in the District Choir which performed in Cleburne last Saturday, November 21. The musical ability of the 120 students that sang in the performance on Saturday was absolutely astounding. The District choir performed the following selections: I’m Seventeen Come Sunday, Abenlied, Be Thou My Light, and Swinging with the Saints. Also, the District men’s choir combined with the Region men’s choir and sang Ave Marie. A CD of this performance is available from APAD Digital Recordings* 810 Kilpatrick * Cleburne, Texas 76033-7471. The cost is $15.00, well the worth the expense. Finally, Cisco College extended and invitation it area High Schools for students and directors to perform with them at their Christmas Concert. Their will be two practices followed by the performance on December 3 at 7:30 PM in the Cisco College Auditorium. The Gorman Panther band has eight members that will be performing in that concert: Jacob Fritts, Raven Kehl, Jaylon Miley, Angelena Perez, Brittany Ramirez, Daniel Rivas, Katey Thackerson, and James Thomas. All of these students are to be commended for their commitment to musical excellence.
Gorman High School Spanish III Class Dancing, singing, and just having a blast. This is what Mrs. Sanchez’s Spanish III class did on Monday, November 2nd during Justo Lama’s concert. They developed a great new understanding for the Spanish music through Justo’s inspiring songs along with a few crushes. After the concert the students were allowed to take pictures with Justo and each got their shirts autographed by Justo himself. This years Spanish III class consist of Seniors only whom are: Brenda Velasquez, Kimi Seaton, Perla Maldonado, Erica Limon, Katie Fritts, and Jon Flores. They are extremely grateful with Mrs. Sanchez for allowing them to attend Justo’s concert for the last time their Senior year and hope future Spanish classes will be fortunate enough to attend one of these concerts too!
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Gorman,
I.S.D., Latricia Hampton ~ hampton@gorman.esc14.net
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U.I.L. One-Act Play
Last week Gorman Middle School competed in the district one-act play competition in Ranger. The group performed “The Tale that Wagged the Dog” which is a comedy set in Victorian times. This was the first one-act play experience for most of the participants, and they spent many hours rehearsing and learning lines. Three of our participants won awards: Mykisha Hampton – All Star Cast, Jacquelynn Rainey – Honorable Mention All Star Cast, and Garet Vaughn – Technical Crew Award. All of the students were great representatives of Gorman Middle School.
Gorman High School Student Council News
Gorman High School Student Council is doing a shoebox Christmas for boys and girls ages 4-18. This Christmas, small items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, brushes, toy cars, stuffed animals, lotion, art supplies, candies, dolls and action figures would be greatly appreciated. Shoe box donations may be turned in to student council members or Coach Lovelace. This year’s student council officers are: President, Brittany Henderson; Vice President, Maria Raygoza; Secretary, Rachel Tucker; Treasurer, Erica Madera; and Reporter, Erica Limon. The sponsor is Jera Lovelace. The student council also hosted a bake sale and a penny drive. They plan to sell candy canes for Christmas. The student council plans to do many more fundraisers and community service activities throughout the school year.
Pictured left to right Back row: Lacey Wilson, Connie Gonzalez, Mykisha Hampton, Jacquelynn Rainey Front row: Garet Vaughn, Crystal Brinegar, Turner Whitten Below: Students from Gorman attend leadership forum.
John Ben Shepperd System of Service Leadership Forum The following Junior Class Members attended the John Ben Shepperd System of Service Leadership Forum held at the Lake Brownwood 4-H Center on November 18th, 2009: Jose Huerta, Jaylon Miley, Cecilia Olivares, Maria Raygoza, and TJ Warren, they were escorted by Mrs. Schaefer-Junior Sponsor. The forum is sponsored by Comanche Electric Cooperative Association in conjunction with The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. The mission of the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute is to provide Texans an education for and about leadership, ethics and public service. The goal of the Institute is to develop a well-rounded leadership program to improve Texans’ personal leadership skills, develop their sense of community responsibility, and educate them on the importance of ethics and public service. Their challenge is to prepare Texans to accept leadership responsibility and lead the state into a bright future. In the morning session the focus was on personal traits and how they relate to others in a group as well as how they relate to being a leader. The afternoon session was a hands-on activity where they were divided according to their personal traits. Each group was given two large sheets of paper, a paper plate, balloons, straws, aluminum foil, and masking tape. They were told to construct a tower using only these supplies that could withstand a light gust of wind and must be a minimum of 5 feet tall. Group 6 included Jaylon Miley, Maria Raygoza,
and TJ Warren, along with two other students from other schools. They were able to meet all the requirements and were the winning team. Congratulations to these team members. Good leadership skills, math skills, and science skills were needed to complete the project successfully. It was a learning experience for all students that attended the forum.
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 ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Rising
Star Library Notes, Ginger Tobin
Library Invaded by Bears & “Humpty Dumpty” Critters On Monday, November 16, while no one was looking, the RISING STAR LIBRARY was invaded by some “interesting” critters, creatures or animals-according to your interpretation of such. No matter how you interpret these interlopers, they have almost completely taken over the library, grabbing the attention of every patron who enters! Two WHITE bears have claimed the area beneath the RISING STAR LIBRARY’S Christmas tree! One is BIG; one is small. I don’t know if they are kin to each other or not; but what I can say for sure is that they are both WHITE. From further investigation, I find they may be POLAR BEARS, as they are white and USUALLY live within the Arctic circle. This type of bear is the largest carnivore species found on land. An adult male weighs around 770-1500 pounds. These WHITE bears do not appear to weigh that much; perhaps they cannot find the proper food in Rising Star? And, the big question is…how did they get here? You really MUST come by to see them… there are also TWO Humpty Dumpty crittersyou know, the “sat on a wall” type of critters! Here’s what was said of them:
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall; Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the King’s horses And all the King’s men Couldn’t put Humpty together again!
wall” at the library. You might wonder how all these “critters” came to be at RISING STAR LIBRARY… this is all part of STAR PRIDE’S effort at “lighting up Rising Star” for the Christmas season. A flurry of activity by STAR PRIDE members Maria Jones, Ginger Tobin, Noreen Pittman and Butch Garrett on Monday really brightened up the library-both inside and outside with decorations and TWO Christmas trees as well as lights on the front of the Library. And…they have not finished! THANK YOU STAR PRIDE. LIBRARY “WISH TREE” IN PLACE A “wish tree” has been installed at the RISING STAR LIBRARY with small wrapped boxes on the tree; each box has one of the Library’s wishes shown on the bottom. Patrons of the Library can select a box; contact the Librarian or volunteer on duty to pay for the gift; and make residents and Library patrons happy for years to come with the gift. There will be different monetary selection amounts, so please come by and generously grant one of these wishes to benefit the entire City of Rising Star and residents of nearby communities. If you use the Library, you know that we strive to have books that will interest everyone; this is one way to help us realize that dream. The donor can keep the gift box; their donation will be acknowledged by letter and mention in the Library Notes column. Ed.Note: More Rising Star Library Notes available on the County Line website! www.mycounty-line.com
In Spanish:
Humpty Dumpty Sentado en un muro Humpty Dumpty Se ha caido muy duro. Todos los caballeros Y jinetes del rey, Fueron a levantarlo Y no pudieron con el.
One of our very faithful library patrons and donors, Betty Kendrick, came by the library; discovered that one of the “Humpty’s” was about to lose its hat and kindly took him to her home to sew it back on. Humpty later reported that the sewing was painless to its head; and he was very happy with the repair and is comfortably “sitting on a The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Clint
Coffee CLU ChFC, State Farm Insurance® Agent
Costly Misconceptions: Most People Mistakenly Believe Long-Term Care is Covered
Have you failed to get insurance for long term care in a nursing home because you think you already have coverage? If so, you’re like a lot of other people, according to a Roper survey of Americans 45 years of age and over, recently released by the American Society on Aging (ASA). That misconception can become costly when you consider long-
term care in a nursing home currently averages $56,000i a year, according to the US Government, and is expected to quadruple by 2030ii. People could easily find their assets depleted, their choices limited and their independence gone if they need long-term care but have made no plans to pay for it. And chances are good they will need long-term care. Statistics released by the Health Insurance
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
Association of America say that after age 65, Americans have more than a 70 percent chance of needing some form of long-term care, whether it’s an aide coming to their home, a stay in an assisted care facility or an extended stay in a nursing home.iii Younger people may also need long-term care if they’ve had a stroke, for example, or been in an accident. “This survey confirms that Americans need to wake-up to the realities of long-term care,” said Jim Emerman, senior vice president of the ASA. “All it takes is a phone call to a financial services professional to find out the truth behind the misconceptions so many have about long-term care.” Some of the common misconceptions uncovered in the Roper studyiv are these: Forty-two percent were not aware Medicare only covers longterm care expenses for a short time, and only after someone is released
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from the hospital. Thirty percent were not aware Medicaid coverage for longterm care is only available after someone’s financial resources are exhausted. Almost half (46 percent) are under the impression their health insurance will automatically cover long-term care. It’s dangerous to assume you’re covered for long-term care. When the need for a nursing home stay or other long-term care arises, you may discover you’re not covered and have waited too long to buy insurance. Long-term care insurance is an important part of a financial plan. I urge people to speak with a financial services professional about their need for long-term care insurance now, before it’s too late to get coverage. i Estimates from: Health Care Financing Administration, Office of the Actuary, National Health Statistics Group. As presented in, “Nursing Homes.” AARP Public Policy Institute Fact Sheet. February 2001: pg. 3. ii Can Aging Baby Boomers Avoid the Nursing Home? Long-term Care Insurance for Aging in Place.” American Council of Life Insurers. March 2000: pg. 15. iii Lewin Group estimates based on the Brookings-ICF Long-term Care Financing Model, 1992. As cited in, “Long-term Care: Knowing the Risk, Paying the Price.” Health Insurance Association of America (HIAA). 1997: pg. 12. The level of coverage provided by long-term care insurance depends on the type of policy you purchase. Some types of care received may not be covered by longterm care insurance. iv Study conducted by Roper ASW, August 2002. Released by State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and the American Society on Agency (ASA), April 2003. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois - statefarm. com®. The American Society on Aging is not an affiliate of State Farm®. The Long-Term Care Insurance policy 97058 is underwritten by State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company.
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
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LTC102-40 Rev. 5/27/2003
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Tumbleweed
Smith, Big Spring
BUDDY MOODY LIVES IT UP IN THE VALLEY
I continually make a study of characters, people who live life to its fullest and have fun every day. Some people look like characters but are not. Some people don’t look like characters but are. Buddy Moody of Harlingen fits both categories; he looks like a character and is one. Our visit started out at his real estate office. We got into a quiet place and he told me all kinds of stuff. He looks like a giant; 275 pounds and six and a half feet. He wears western hats with five and six inch brims, big belt buckles and boots that come up to his knees. Of course he tucks his pants legs into the boots. The belt buckle he was wearing has what looks like the rear end of a cylinder on a fully loaded.38 caliber pistol embedded into it. When he turns the cylinder, it clicks. “I own 28 pairs of boots,” says Buddy, “and 27 hats. Almost that many belt buckles. I dress like this every day except when I’m officiating a high school football game. On those days I wear low quarters.” Every once in awhile a rambunctious player will accidentally collide with him on the field. After the play, someone will ask Buddy if he would like anything. His standard reply is “Bud Light.” When he goes into a steak place he tells the waitress to “just wipe its butt and cut off its horns and bring it to me.” Sometimes he orders a hindquarter. He started telling me about his house. “It’s got slot machines, crap tables, a wet bar and a fabulous stereo system. The walls are full of trophy animals.” Intrigued and curious, I asked him if we could continue the interview at his home. He said “yep” and off we went. Sure enough, it is a well-equipped
party house. When we pulled into his driveway he opened the door of his pickup to show me the rosewood dashboard and ostrich quill seat covers. Buddy is an auctioneer and stays busy doing all sorts of selling. Some time ago he had a band and wrote music. One of his songs reached number 35 on the top 100 list. He is also a reserve policeman. He is a dead ringer for Charlie Daniels. A picture on the wall of his house shows both Buddy and Charlie standing side by side. When I was asked to point to the real Charlie, I pointed to Buddy. “Everybody does that,” he says. “You really can’t tell us apart.” Buddy has Charlie’s cell phone number and they are close friends. Occasionally Charlie will sneak into Harlingen, stay in Buddy’s house and shoot wild hogs on Buddy’s ranch. Onetime Charlie told Buddy, “You’re my twin. You look like me, talk like me and walk like me. I’ve heard that everybody on earth has a twin. I’ve found mine.” Buddy ‘s real name is Bueford Charlie Moody. Sometimes he’ll walk into a place where Charlie Daniels is playing, go backstage and even the security people will think he’s the real Charlie Daniels. Maybe Charlie should see if he could pass for Buddy.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
■ @The
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27•
Ranger Library, Diana McCullough
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Ready to Travel the World? Your Local Library Can Help You “Book” Your Own Trip!
Have you ever wanted to take a trip to Hong Kong? Well, me neither. But I took one. In the book, 9 Dragons, the latest by Michael Connelly. Books can take you ANYWHERE! There are thousands of trips and adventures available here at the Ranger City Library, and best of all—they are free! (At least they are free for the first two weeks, then we do charge an old-fashioned 5¢ per day late fine, or you can call and renew your books by phone.) My next trip was to the Black Hills of South Dakota, in the newest book by Nora Roberts (aptly titled “Black Hills”). Nature lovers will appreciate this book as one experiences the inside workings of a wildlife refuge. Readers who enjoy suspense will like this book, too. Last night I started You Were Born for This: 7 Keys to a Life of Predictable Miracles by Bruce Wilkinson, the author of the #1 bestseller “The Prayer of Jabez”. I have always felt extremely lucky and expect good luck, and now I realize I may just be surrounded by miracles! Ha! Sometimes, I think we MAKE our own luck. My daddy used to say, “the harder I work, the luckier I get!” And there’s truth in that. After our Day of Champions, I wrote about Ken Charman yelling at me from his big orange tractor to “Get out of the way!” And that’s how it is sometimes with God, we need to get out of God’s way. I’ve only read about 1/3 of You Were Born for This, but that seems to be the sentiment of this book, not to get out of God’s way per se, but to ALLOW the Lord to work through us. Here’s the dedication: “To Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory.” From Ephesians 3:20-21. We CAN live ABUNDANTLY! You do not have to travel far. I have wanted to go to the Thurber Museum for a long time. It’s official name is the W.K. Gordon Center for Industrial History of Texas. We often eat out at New York Hill restaurant, but the museum is closed by the time we get there, so I had to PLAN a trip. An autumn road trip. Might as well go
to the Dr. Pepper Museum in Dublin too, right? Jim chose to appease me—and we had a WONDERFUL day! I packed a picnic lunch and we traveled down the Interstate and took the temporary exit for Hwy. 16 (due to the construction on I-20). At DeLeon we got on Hwy. 6 for Dublin. Tours for the Dr. Pepper Museum are only $2.50 per person, and we went through the plant with a young Boy Scout Troop from Dallas, which made it a unique experience. Our tour guide was excellent. Afterward, I coerced my husband across the street to the Antique Store. We just looked, didn’t buy—we have enough old stuff of our own! Mandatory FM was playing on Dublin’s Main Street, livening the atmosphere with music. We left by way of County Road 219 which intersects with 108, coming back up the access road to the museum at Thurber. This state-of-the-art museum was built by Tarleton State University, and it is VERY impressive if you are at all interested in the history of coal and oil and bricks and the communities of Thurber and Ranger, hence a little higher admission--$4 per person. We were NOT disappointed! I encourage you to go if you’re considering it. Next we traveled east until the Hwy. 4 Exit to Palo Pinto. Shawn W. had told me how scenic this road was this fall—and Shawn would not lie to me! It was a beautiful drive, and although I had imagined circling back on U.S. Highway 180, Jim preferred to return by way of Palo Pinto Lake, and I don’t need coercion. We
rambled the back-way through Mingus and Strawn and back to Hwy. 16, and home again home again, jiggidy jog. Tricia Emery called us “local tourists”, and that beats buying a plane ticket! Sometimes. Our road trip was educational. Jim had no idea that Ranger’s “Out of the Past” Antique Store was bigger and better than the store that he was drug into. Now he does! We described this year’s fall foliage as “golden”, and the fields were still a healthy green. Some years offer a more vibrant and brilliant array of autumn colors, but “golden” is good. If you want to see an assortment of pretty red leaves—come to the library! Even our ground and sidewalks are decorated in lovely fall colors. Whoever planned and planted our Bradford Pear trees and crepe myrtles deserve a lot of credit. Ranger has a lot to offer. Lots of potential here. A miracle would be most welcomed, but thoughtful work (think of Julie Austin’s stamina) makes a nice difference.
Our newest books include Other Men’s Horses by the late, great Elmer Kelton (we can expect one more from this prolific author who died in August); Half Broke Horses (A True Life Novel) by Jeannette Walls; I, Alex Cross by James Patterson; Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo; Breathless by Dean Koontz; Under the Dome by Stephen King; Grave Secrets by Charlaine Harris; and Rainwater by Sandra Brown. We have also purchased nine new books for children with a generous Memorial Gift from the family of Pierre Leuvre Kendrick of Cisco. I just read one of those new children’s books, Born to Read, to precocious 4 year old Haven, then thanked her for giving me my last paragraph. Here’s the last sentence from Born to Read: “Yes, readers can go anyplace!” Travel safely, and as always...ENJOY READING!
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ EMH
Volunteers, Kelly Davidson
EMH Volunteers to Host OPEN HOUSE
Come see what we are all about!
On Thursday, December 3rd from 5:30p.m. until 7:00p.m. the Eastland Memorial Hospital Volunteers are having a ‘come and go’ Open House in the new EMH Boardroom next door to the SunShine Gift Shoppe. While you visit with our volunteers and receive information/ applications you are welcome to enjoy refreshments from our gift shoppe as well as the 10% SALE on ALL MERCHANDISE that will be going on for this evening only. Don’t miss the fun, refreshments and great shopping, come on by! Books Are Fun!
The EMH Volunteers are hosting a two day fundraiser in the meeting room located beside the SunShine Gift Shoppe in the Earl and Billye Bradley Rehab/Wellness Center. It will be on Wednesday, December 9th, from 10:30 am until 8:00 pm and again on Thursday, December 10th, from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm. You’ll find cookbooks, holiday books, children’s books, history books and more. A diverse assortment of Christmas items, cards, educational toys, gifts for all ages and decorative pieces you’ll enjoy. All are new, highquality items offered at discounted prices of up to 70 percent off the suggested retail price. These items are offered through Books Are Fun, which expanded earlier this year to include the former Imagination Books company. We hope to see you there! The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27•
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Life
Planning Issues, Jim Kennedy Reducing Your Tax Bill
Can You Reduce Your 2009 Tax Bill? 4 Questions…
Tax planning of any sort is undeniably becoming more and more complicated. Yet at the same time, it is also becoming increasingly more valuable to taxpayers. Talk with your professionals about these 4 ways that could help you trim your tax bill for 2009: #1… What is in the “2009 Act” that could put dollars into your pocket? If you are thinking “nothing that can help me,” you might want to talk with your tax professional. The deepest recession in years has led to a comprehensive economic stimulus plan that our lawmakers hope will stimulate the economy and create new jobs. Part of this plan is the American Recovery & Reinvestment Tax Act of 2009 (the “2009 Act”). The “2009 Act” includes…well, what does it not include may be easier. Brand new tax credits are allotted on a number of things from both increased existing and brand new tax credits, to the AMT exemption increase, to a deduction on car purchases to changes in business expensing... and the list goes on. You might be surprised what will fit your unique situation. #2…If you are a high-income professional, an independent consultant or self-employed, did you know you have the potential to shelter up to
$195,000 individually in a retirement plan? This means $195,000 will be subtracted from your taxable income. Of course, this depends on you and your spouse’s employment status, earned income, actuarial assumption and other variables such as current tax laws. There is just one catch—but it’s a big one: you must open this retirement plan before the end of the year. NOW might be a good time to pick up the phone, call us and ask questions. (P.S. If you already have a plan in place that fits your situation, don’t forget to find out the highest amount you can contribute to it and max it out!) #3…Are you aware that Congress has provided tax incentives to stimulate domestic natural gas and oil production financed by private sources? Section 263 of the tax code allows investors to deduct up to 100% of the intangible expenditures of drilling, which is usually 65 to 80 percent of the well, during the year the investment was made. Additionally, tangible drilling costs are 100 percent tax deductible and may be deducted as depreciation over a seven-year period. Are there alternative investments that could be helping you minimize your tax bill? There might be…but you have to go looking for them, they won’t come to you. #4…Do you know how much you could be paying Uncle Sam for 2009? By this time of the year you probably
have a good idea what your income will be for 2009, as well as a general estimate of any major capital gains or losses. Once you know these numbers, a tax professional can help you estimate your tax. I encourage you to speak with your tax professional and financial advisor within the next couple of months to talk about your current outlook as well as any tax-trimming strategies. For example: carryover losses from 2008, along with different types of losses realized in 2009, provide opportunities for immediate tax benefits. You may want to make your January mortgage payment in December, prepay property taxes due in early 2010 or make specific charitable donations. The key here is to ask questions. Our government has spun
quite a few webs in the tax code over the past couple of years. Some of these provisions will stay and some will go in the upcoming year(s). And there will be new provisions. Bottom line: The laws present important planning opportunities for many taxpayers, but change is the only current constant in our tax law. Asking questions could help you best take advantage of them – but don’t wait until December. You need to start now in order to make use of every opportunity available to reduce your 2009 Tax Bill. 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.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Texas
Hunter, Jerry Tebay
“That Guy”
As Texas hunters, most of us hunt on leased land. Some are fortunate enough to have family owned land and still others hunt mainly public land. Where ever we hunt, we are very rarely alone. Texas has the most deer hunters per capita of any state. That being said, as with my lease, there are several hunters at any given time. Sure, most hunters have their own little spot picked out and feeders and stands in place, but no matter how the property is laid out, every hunter on the property affects each other and their hunt in different ways. Some affects are positive and others are negative. I’m sure each of you has that annoying lease partner or “bubba” brother in-law that just seems to do things as he pleases. He stays up late making all kinds of drunken noise and always seems to tick people off. He brings his buddies and shoot all their guns at camp just for fun. They may drive the property when they know there are hunters in the field or habitually get to their stand late. Maybe it’s leaving trash in the field or not cleaning up at camp. Maybe it is the guy who shoots more than his share of animals or just can not follow lease rules. What ever it is at your camp, take some time to think
out every thing you do so you won’t be labeled “that guy”. One of the most annoying things that can happen while hunting is to be in your stand at three pm and then have a fellow hunter drive through the property in their truck with dual exhaust at four thirty on the way to their stand. This shows nothing but disregard for the other hunters. Whether it is in a truck, four wheeler or side by side, the mere presence and disruption that late in the day is going to have a negative affect on the hunters already in the stand. Always try to know where the other hunters are on the property and when they like to go to their stand. That way, if you have to pass their stand or even come close to it, you can make the extra effort to be as quiet and as least disruptive as possible, even changing your route if necessary. Respect the area that other hunters have chosen. Unless it is common to do so and you have their permission, never attempt to hunt another hunter’s stand. Just because they may not have made it to the lease or property that day, does not make their stand necessarily available. It is rude and, in my opinion, border line unethical. Each hunter puts numerous hours each year into getting his stand just right for them to hunt. That hunter probably knows the animals that frequent the area around their stand and is most likely hunting
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a particular animal or animals. Nothing feels more gut wrenching than having the big ole buck you’ve been hunting all year taken by a hunter in your stand with out your permission. Again, unless it is common and you have their permission, DO NOT hunt any stand that is not yours. If you do obtain permission and hunt someone else’s stand, clean up after yourself. Do not leave coke cans, beer cans, spit cups or any other trash in their stand. If you do, they probably will not allow you to hunt that stand again. From time to time, ask the land owner if there is anything you can help out with around the property. This not only shows you are willing to help out, but shows the landowner that their property is not being taken advantage of. If you notice fences down or anything that needs attention, always mention it to the landowner before attempting any repairs. Most landowners will appreciate the help and will remember it when lease time rolls back around. After you do take that trophy, please resist the urge to pull a bubba move and strap it to your tail gate or hood and parade it around town. Sure, your buddies will think your cool, but grandma coming home from church will think hunters are nothing but a bunch of beer drinking’, corn fed rednecks. We, as hunters have historically had a bad reputation among non hunters. With all the talk about ethics and education along with advancements in management over the last few years, that perception is beginning to change. That’s good for us hunters, but it’s our responsibility to keep that perception positive. Let’s all do our part never to be labeled “that guy”.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Political
Hotseat, Mike Norris Never Let A Good Crisis Go To Waste: The Cloward-Piven Strategy
So, here I am. Toiling away on my computer well after midnight on a typical Thursday evening – correction, make that Friday morning. I am surfing the Internet looking for something meaningful and thought-provoking to write about in my next issue of The County Line. To be honest, having an entire paper with empty pages waiting to be filled as you are running headlong toward another deadline is a very daunting predicament. But not being one to step down from the soap box without having at least attempting to spill my half-coherent thought processes onto eager ears, I finally locate something of issue that I can speak out on. So I type a few well-chosen keywords into my favorite search engine and click the obligatory “Search” button. Moments later, I am confronted with pages and pages of text ~ none of which looks very entertaining or enjoyable to read. And I begin to skim over the search results with much the same look on my face that you are probably expressing right now. “OK, here it is...” I mumble to myself as I click on the chosen link. The page I am looking at displays a full-text quote from an article that was published in May of 1966. I have never heard of the author(s) of the article, except as referenced in the news and on television only very recently. So I begin reading the article for the very first time and I really have no idea what to expect. But I knew going in that the article was very politically charged, very politically motivated. So I expected to be fuming at the mouth and pulling my hair out within minutes...but I continued reading just the same. After the fourth paragraph, I’m still digesting the material...I’m hesitating to formulate my opinion just yet because the article is only laying the fundamental groundwork for its basis. The author’s observations are legitimate, if you can overlook the word choice which demonstrates a clearly liberal thought process. But the first sentence of the fifth paragraph alerts you to the overall purpose of the article: Quote~ “A series of welfare drives in large cities would, we believe, impel action on a new federal program to distribute income, eliminating the present public welfare system and alleviating the abject poverty which it perpetrates. “ OK, let me provide some background here. The article details a strategy to eliminating the current welfare system in America. Basically, it says that the current welfare system in America provides so much assistance to the poor and underprivileged, that if all of the current eligible candidates were to sign up for and demand the full assistance to which they are entitled, the system would effectively fail and crash under its own weight. After that, in order to meet the demands of the people, the administration would be forced to revamp the entire system from the ground up. In other words, if you just look at the situation as it is described in the first four paragraphs of this article, the obvious problem is that the current welfare system provides too much assistance and too many benefits to those who are participating in the programs. In fact, the author’s overwhelming admission and acknowledgement that the system would be unable to fund
these programs in their entirety is the first indication that the problem is an over abundance of welfare programs ~ NOT a shortfall. But whereas the conservative viewpoint would be to reduce the size and scope of the programs and reduce the overall budget liabilities as a whole, the author’s liberal solution is to orchestrate a huge effort within the poor and underprivileged communities to create massive demand for existing programs to such a point that the system collapses under its own weight. I’m sorry...but that’s like driving your car with a flat tire until you have nothing left but the rim..instead of putting on the spare before you leave the drive way. I’ve seen people do that by the way and they quickly turn a $5 plug into several hundred dollars worth of replacement tires and destroyed wheels! In my opinion, if you know the problem is with the programs and the entitlements, then cut back on the programs and the entitlements. How do you justify pushing more and more people onto the programs when you know the programs are going to fail? How does that help the people? Back to the article...as the article continues, it begins to address the actions of “Community Organizers” and how they must advocate on behalf of the eligible individuals to seek full welfare benefits: Quote~ “Organizers will have to become advocates in order to deal effectively with improper rejections and terminations. The advocate’s task is to appraise the circumstances of each case, to argue its merits before welfare, to threaten legal action if satisfaction is not given. In some cases, it will be necessary to contest decisions by requesting a “fair hearing” before the appropriate state supervisory agency; it may occasionally be necessary to sue for redress in the courts...Advocacy must be supplemented by organized demonstrations to create a climate of militancy...” As I read on, these statements catch my attention: Quote~ “As the crisis develops, it will be important to use the mass media to inform the broader liberal community about the inefficiencies and injustices of welfare.” “And throughout the crisis, the mass media should be used to advance arguments for a new federal income distribution program.” The article concludes with the following: Quote~ “If organizers can deliver millions of dollars in cash benefits to the [omit] masses, it seems reasonable to expect that the masses will deliver their loyalties to their benefactors. At least, they have always done so in
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27•
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Political the past.”
Hotseat, continued
OK, I read the whole article, and I didn’t lose any hair. That’s good. But in my gut I can’t get over the idea of how the authors of this article would prefer to bring about change through an aggressive effort to collapse the system from the inside...rather than the more logical proposition of simply reducing the maximum benefits to a more fiscally responsible level. I think we are seeing this strategy at work in many areas today. Rather than address health care costs directly, both the Senate and the House have compiled huge health care reform bills which seem to just provide more benefits to more people. Earlier in the year, the stimulus plans provided more funds to ailing businesses which equated to nothing more than a collection of welfare programs to failed businesses and labor unions. I don’t see where doubling up on the country’s debt is actually solving anything here. In fact, if this article is any indication of the core strategy being used by this administration, then the entire system has to collapse from its own weight before any real change can take place. Is that the CHANGE they were talking about last year? I HOPE not. Excerpts from: The Weight of the Poor: A Strategy To End Poverty Richard A. Cloward Frances Fox Piven Columbia University School of Social Work, May 2, 1966 “You never want a serious crisis to go to waste.” ~Rahm Emanuel, White House Chief of Staff
Google “cloward piven crisis”
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Cisco
Youth, Greg Sellers
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Lone Star Youth Outdoors A Weekend To Remember How was your weekend? It is a typical Monday morning greeting that we exchange at the coffee shop or the workplace – part of the pleasantries of everyday life. How often can you tell your friends that you had a weekend that was truly memorable? I’m telling my friends today about a weekend I hope I never forget. You see, it was my pleasure to be included with a group of dedicated men who gave up their weekend and even work hours to host a group of boys from area children’s homes for a weekend outdoors. This trip was dedicated to deer hunting on a local area ranch. Each boy was paired with an adult guide and they shared the weekend together hunting, fishing, target shooting, and archery practice. Oh, and let’s not forget the inevitable Snipe Hunt and pranks that take place around camp once the day’s activities are
done! It is truly amazing to witness the energy of a bunch of teen and pre-teen boys! Several boys took time out from perhaps more fun activities to complete their Texas Hunter Safety certification and were recognized in front of the group for their achievement. Safety is stressed in the program and it is the number one priority for each of the guides to teach as they take on the various activities. So what makes the weekend so memorable? For me it was Matt. No it is not his real name because I would never compromise his privacy but this 14 year-old young man was a joy to be around. I met him at a previous outing during dove season and was pleased to see he had made this trip too. He recognized me and said I would be his guide. Now that’s an ego booster for sure! After a chilly night in sleeping bags in the boys sleeping quarters, he was raring to go at 4:30 a.m. and banging on my tent to make sure I wouldn’t oversleep! The camp cooks had coffee going and a fire in the pit so after chasing the chill away we made sure Matt had a coat and gloves and we headed out to our hunting area. Whispering last minute
instructions in the pre-dawn, we settled in to wait for shooting light. Only moments later I whispered in his ear. “Deer!” He responded carefully and quietly as he had been taught. In the dim morning light, the rifle roared and so did Matt. “I got him!” He exclaimed. We laughed together as he showed me how bad he was shaking from the “buck fever”. We spent a few minutes before going out of the blind as he rattled off Gatling-gun style, all the things that passed through his mind from the sighting until the shot, recreating the sequence of events. I don’t know whose grin was bigger, his or mine. Matt’s deer was the only one brought in that morning so he enjoyed a certain amount of celebrity with the other boys. The adults were good to congratulate him and give him a well deserved “atta boy”! We did not see anything else the rest of the weekend but it was OK. Matt and I had already shared something special. He and his buddies went home Sunday. They were dog-tired, dirty, and very happy. So was I. Lone Star Youth Outdoors is a locally based, non-profit organization that exists to provide outdoor experiences like this to boys who are residents at area children’s homes. Volunteers are just that. They donate their time, resources, equipment and a wealth of outdoor experience to these boys who might not otherwise have such an opportunity. There is always a need for funds to provide food, supplies, and equipment. We extend our sincerest appreciation to landowners who allow us to use their property and we would love to have more landowner partners. If you would like to know more about this program or would like to help support it, please contact: Lone Star Youth Outdoors lsyouthoutdoors@yahoo.com.
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•County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27
■ Special
Feature, Mike Norris
e t i r o v a F r u o Y f o e m So Holiday Recipes
We put out the call for our readers to submit some of their favorite holiday recipes to us so we could share them with the rest of you! Here’s to sharing some memorable holidays with friends and family!
Enjoy!
Seasoned Saltines
Cranberry Salad
1 pkg Dry Ranch Dressing Mix 1 1/2 cup Canola oil 2 tbsp crushed Red Peppers 1 tsp dill weed 1/2 tsp Tony’s Creole Seasoning 1 box of Saltine Crackers
2 3-ounce packages cherry Jello 1 1/2 cup water, boiling 1 4-ounce can crushed pineapple, drained 1 can whole cranberries, drained 1 cup pecans, chopped 8 ounce cream cheese 8 ounce sour cream
courtesy Ruth Norris
Fruit Cake Cookies for Carol Bullock
1/2 cup butter 2/3 cup brown sugar 1 egg, beaten 1 tsp baking soda 1 1/2 tsp milk 1 1/2 cup flour 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp allspice 1 tsp cloves 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 cup fruit juice (I believe that Mom used orange juice) 1/2 pound pineapple (the kind you find on the baking aisle at Christmas time) 1/2 pound cherries (same ones you find at Christmas time in both red and green) 4 cups pecans Mix all ingredients together and drop by the teaspoonful on cookie sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes in a 300 degree oven. Cool on wire rack.
Whisk together dry ingredients and Canola oil and pour over box of saltine crackers in airtight container. Roll, shake, and tumble crackers occasionaly until oil is absorbed...aprox. 2 to 4 hrs. Serve with or without your favorite dip.
Mom’s Party Mix courtesy Rebecca Gattis
Melt ½ pound butter and add the following items: 4 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp celery salt 1 tsp onion salt ½ tsp garlic salt ½ tsp Accent
for Carol Bullock
Dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Add pineapple and cranberries and chill until slightly thick. Add pecans (they should float in mixture) and chill until firm. Cream sour cream and cream cheese together and spread on top of Jello mixture. Chill until set.
Mix together the following items: 2 cups mixed nuts 2 cups wheat Chex 2 cups rice Chex 2 cups corn Chex 3 cups Cheerios 17 ounces thin pretzels Pour butter mixture over cereal, nuts and pretzels and bake 2 hours on a sheet pan at 250 degrees. Stir every 15 minutes.
The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com
County Line Business & Community Journal ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Special
Feature, continued
Potato Casserole courtesy Sue Bakker
Lightly brown: 1 cup onions in ¼ cup butter ( I use 1 stick) Add: 2 lb. bag frozen hash brown potatoes 2 cups grated cheddar cheese 1 carton sour cream (8 oz) ¼ cup mayo salt and pepper to taste
Mom’s Cheese Roll courtesy Rebecca Gattis
Danish Wedding Cakes for Carol Bullock
1/2 pound butter (not margarine) 5 Tbsp sugar 2 tsp vanilla 1 Tbsp ice water 2 cups flour 1/2 cup pecans, chopped fine Powdered sugar for rolling
for Carol Bullock
1 pound mild cheddar cheese, grated 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 cloves garlic, minced fine 1 cup pecans, chopped fine paprika
10” Graham cracker crust (She made hers according to the instructions on the graham cracker crumb box - crumbs and melted butter pressed into the pie plate and then baked for 10 minutes I think.)
Combine cheeses, garlic and pecans. Form logs in the shape of the crackers you will serve them with (we used Ritz crackers) and roll in paprika. Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate. Slice and serve.
Filling 12 ounces cream cheese 2 eggs 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla small can of crushed pineapple, drained
1 can cream of mushroom soup ( I use cream of mushroom w/ roasted garlic Put in 13x9 pan sprayed with Pam…. Mix 2 cups Rice Krispies with ½ stick melted butter….Spread over potato mixture…cook 1 ½ hour @ 350
Pineapple Cheesecake
Millionaires for Carol Bullock
1 pkg individual caramel candies 3 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp water 3 cups pecan halves 3 4-ounce Hershey milk chocolate bars 1/3 bar of paraffin wax Melt caramels, butter and water in double boiler. Mix in pecan halves and drop by the teaspoonful onto buttered cookie sheet. Allow to set up.
Beat all but pineapple until smooth. Add pineapple and bake 20 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Cool 1 hour. Topping 1 pint sour cream 2 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla Mix together and spread over cooled cake. Bake 5 minutes and then cool completely.
Melt Hershey bars and paraffin wax in double boiler and dip caramel pieces in to coat. Allow to set up on wax paper.
Mix together all ingredients except for powdered sugar and roll into small balls. Roll in powdered sugar and bake for 15 minutes in a 350 degree oven or until slightly brown.
Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
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■ From
The Backside, Henry J. Clevicepin Diggin’ Holes By Henry J. Clevicepin and Collaborated by Nellie Frecklebelly and Agnes & Ophilia Fudpucker
Well, it has cooled down considerably here in Buzzard’s Roost, just in time for the hunting season. I went down to the Buzzard’s Roost liquor store the other day and got me plenty of ammunition for the season. Me and my mule barn partner & beer drinking buddy, Estee K. Bibbles, was out hunting the other day and came up on this deep hole. It was so deep we couldn’t see the bottom of it, so Estee K. said there’s an old transmission laying over there, why don’t we pick it up and throw it in the hole and see how long it takes to hit the bottom. So we both picked it up and threw it over the edge and started listening. About that time we heard the brush behind us rustling and here come a big ol billy goat busting out of the brush about hunnerd miles an hour and ran straight up to the hole and jumped off head first. Me and ol Estee K. was scratching our heads and wondering what in the cornbread world was going on, when an old farmer come walking up and ask if we had seen his billy goat? We said, well, there was one just run out of those bushes and jumped in this hole head first a few minutes ago. The ol farmer said” that’s impossible, I had him tied to an old transmission laying around here”. Speaking of deep holes and going a hunnerd miles per hour, that’s about what our congress is doing with this health care bill. They are digging a hole so deep we can’t see the bottom and they’re going a hunnerd miles an hour trying to get it done. I just can’t understand why they are in such a hurry to pass a bill that is over 2000 pages. It’s kinda like ol Estee K. told me the other day, he said” now let me get this straight. We are going to pass a healthcare bill written by a committee whose head says he doesn’t understand it. Passed by a Congress that hasn’t read it but exempts themselves from it, signed by a President who hasn’t read it and who smokes, funding administered by a treasury chief who didn’t pay his taxes, overseen by surgeon general who is fatter than a town dog and financed by a country that is broke. Then ol Estee K. said, Henry J., what could possibly go wrong????” I told him that the only good thing for the older people was that we can expect long delays before they euthanize us. And you young whippersnappers that don’t have insurance because you think you’re invincible better wake
up. This plan threatens anyone without insurance (that could cost as much as $15,000 per year for a family) with jail or being fined 2.5% of their total income. I’m telling you, folks, these idiots are out of control up there. We have the monkeys running the circus in Washington. The Republicans are threatening to filibuster the bill….all they have to do is hire Mel Tillis to read the entire 2074 pages to the Senate and that will take until the next election. If this works out anything like the stimulus bill it will be a total train wreck. The only thing Obama’s stimulus package has done is drive the unemployment from about 7% up to 10.4% and still headed up. Now that is change we can believe in isn’t it. And why in the world did we still have this terrorist Major Husan still in the Army after they had known he was contactin some of them other terrorist thugs. I’ve had about all of this political correctness & profiling I can stand. My ol buddy Jerry Reynolds, the Carguy, was madder than a stepped on red ant bed last week when he read where General Casey said “ what happened at FT Hood was a tragedy, but I believe it would be a greater tragedy if our diversity became a casualty here”. Well Bull (that’s half a word). Why don’t he go ask the families of those who got killed and the others that were wounded what they think about his diversity. If they got a funny Muslin name, they need to check’em out. Them boys that crashed into those buildings in NY weren’t named Slim & Tex. And now
boys and girls, today we have the fox guarding the henhouse and tomorrow the wolves will be herding the sheep. Obama just appointed , as he calls them, two devout Muslins, Arif Alikhan & Kareem Shora (now set down and get you a beer, cause you ain’t gonna believe this one) to the Homeland Security Council. I told you, you wasn’t gonna belive it !!!!!!! Now ain’t that gonna make you sleep better at night ????? Well, speaking of beer, I got to go get one and go help Estee K. try to get that billy goat tied to the transmission out of that hole. Words of Wisdom form Henry J. : Insanity is doing things over & over expecting different results. (kinda sounds like Congress don’t it? ) 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 ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Rising
Star EDC & Downtown Park, Nancy Bostick, Paula Carpenter & Betsy Herron
The Walls Came Tumbling Down
Years of memories came tumbling down last week in downtown Rising Star with the demolition of the building well known on Main Street as “Watkins Grocery.” Rising Star EDC (Economic Development Corporation) has announced that the property, now vacant, will become a downtown park in memory of Lee Hughes. His sons. Dalton and Danny, have donated the building to the Rising Star EDC. History of the building includes its being a radio repair shop owned by W.N. “Radio” Jenkins (he and his wife lived there); the Watkins Grocery; then Lee Hughes purchased the building and ran the grocery for several years. After he closed the grocery, he used the building for storage for the nursing home. The building was then rented to a used furniture and junk business. When that business closed, the Hughes family kept the old building and used it for storage themselves.
Thank You! The Rising Star Economic following for their donations: Frank Agnew Whites Cafe Southwest Fence Terry Singleton Stones Antique Mall BarbaraMedley
Development Corporation wants to thank the Palace Drug Betty’s Quick Stop Women’s Ministry Sherry Murphree Kenny Rutledge LaJuan Killion
Family Food & Fun Main St. Bar-BQ Josh Constanceo Star Grocery Sharon Fraley
Our traveler’s free coffee, sodas and cookies was a great success. We also handed out literature about what Rising Star has to offer and our friendly and welcoming hospitality. EDC members participating were Nancy Bostick, Mike McGinn, and Butch Garrett. Others were Jeannine Tuttle, Jacob Kunert, Sadie McGinn, Ricki McGinn, Ginger Tobin, Sleepy Gomez, and Chris Jones provided seasonal music with his guitar. Thank you Family Food & Fun for the breakfast pizza, it was so good! One Person Can Make A Difference A man on the beach where thousands of starfish lay dying in the sun saw a girl tossing them into the sea, one by one. “Why bother?” he asked. “You won’t make much of a difference.” Tossing yet another starfish into the sea, the girl said, “I made a difference to that one.” Rising Star is trying to make this new park equipment a reality and with generous individuals like you giving to this cause our park will have new equipment by this spring. Thank you, Betsy Herron City Administrator City of Rising Star P.O. Box 35 104 N Main Street Rising Star, Texas 76471 Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
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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 ~ December, 2009 v2.27• ■ Footnotes, Announcements and Parting Thoughts
Strawn Hometown Country Christmas Dec. 5, 2009 1-6 pm STRAWN MERCHANTS will be open with special bargains, treats and gift ideas. Register for free drawings. Palo Pinto Cowboy Church Band will provide lots of Christmas music and Cowboy Chuck Wagon Grub Located between House of Flowers and Ancient Art Soap. Arts and Crafts booths with plenty of Chritmas ideas in the Professional Cemetery Bldg. Old Time Christmas House and Candy Shoppe presented by Community Animal Rescue located at Screen Door Antiques Horse drawn Wagon Rides at Screen Door Other activities, Cheerleaders Bakesale, Face painting and kids games
2-4 pm
CARE
7 pm
A STROKE ON THURSDAY NOVEMBER 12TH. MARY IS THE WIFE OF BILLY HARMON AND MOTHER OF SHAWNAH BASS AND MATTHEW HARMON. HER CONDITION IS VERY SERIOUS BUT STABLE. MARY IS IN ICU AT WYOMING MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IN CASPER, WYOMING. SHE HAS A LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY AHEAD BUT IS BEGINNING TO SHOW SIGNS OF PROGRESS. HER DOCTOR HAS DISCONTINUED THE RESPIRATOR BUT WILL NEED TO DO ANOTHER DRAIN TO RELIEVE PRESSURE AND PREVENT SWELLING OF THE BRAIN, IF ANYONE WOULD LIKE TO SEND A CARD OF ENCOURAGEMENT, THE ADDRESS IS: MARY HARMON % WYOMING MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 1233 SECOND ST CASPER, WY 82601 THERE WILL BE A BENEFIT TO HELP WITH MEDICAL EXPENSES AT COOK’S FISH BARN ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6TH. FROM 11:00AM UNTIL WHENEVER PEOPLE STOP COMING. THE FAMILY APPRECIATES ALL THE PRAYERS AND PHONE CALLS MADE TO INQUIRE OF MARY’S PROGRESS.
Natural Shots - Photos with Santa - main street
6 pm
BENEFIT FOR MARY HARMON MARY JEAN (BENSON) HARMON, DAUGHTER OF MARY ANN UNDERWOOD, SUFFERED
LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE Trophy for Grand Champion Float presented by First National Bank Albany/Breckenridge-Strawn Lighted All terrian (small vehicle) contest, Best in Parade prize free pet spay/nueter presented by and lunch at Flossies Cafe
SANTA at the PARK
Sponsored by Strawn Volunteer Fire Dept.
Come out for some fun and support the great merchants and businesses of STRAWN - MERRY CHRISTMAS!
FIRST BAPTIST TO HOST 3 0N 3 ADULT BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT First Baptist Church of Comanche will be hosting a 3 on 3 basketball tournament December 1-6, 2009. Divisions for the tournament include adult men’s, adult women’s, adult co-ed, and senior-over 40. Any person 18 or older who is not currently in high school may participate. Teams are composed of four people and will play half-court games. All games will take place in the FBC Gym located at 407 N. Mary St. in Comanche. There is a $40 per team registration fee and the tournament format is double elimination. Winners for the tournament will receive a tournament t-shirt and all proceeds from the tournament and concession stand will go to students raising money to attend youth ministry events and mission trips in 2010. FBC welcomes all churches, businesses and individuals to form teams and participate in this fun event. Teams can sign up online and find a complete list of rules as well as a schedule online at www.fbccomanche.com, in person at First Baptist Church 407 N. Houston, or by phone (325)356-2051. Any questions can be directed to Chris Weaver, minister of youth and education.
Gorman
Christmas Light Parade December 12th Pictures with Santa 4pm ~ 5:45 Parade at 6pm Anyone interested in more information can contact the city office (254)734-2317 Everyone is invited to attend and even be in the parade if they want.
Angel Food Ministries
December Cut-Off Date Tue. Dec. 8th OnLine orders -- Wed. Dec. 9th. Distribution -- Sat. Dec. 19th
RISING STAR
Tour of Homes
December 13th 2pm - 5pm Tickets $5.00 Available at any Star Pride Member Location and Stone’s Antique Mall Star Pride Meeting Tuesday Dec. 1st
Cisco AARP Chapter 2447
Regular monthly meeting Thursday, December 17, 2009. In the Hillside Village, Wheatley Community Center at 1006 Humble Ave. This will be our Christmas supper, the Chapter will furnish the Ham. Please bring a side dish or desert. Drinks, paper plates, & cutlery are furnished by the Chapter. We eat at 6:00 PM. Come join us for Fun, Food & Fellowship. Followed by a brief business meeting and the swearing in of the new officers for 2010 We will not have our 4th Friday night Musical in December, as it falls on Christmas Day.
Our next musical will be January 22, 2010 We will see you then.
RISING STAR
Saturday Night BINGO Every Saturday Night Doors Open 5:30pm Play Starts 7:00pm Concessions Available American Legion 205 S Main
Visit our website for more articles, photos, and news about the things that interest you -- http://www.mycounty-line.com
Kenny Rutledge
(325)642-2983
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The County Line Business & Community Journal ● P.O. Box 1156 ● Eastland, Texas 76448 ● http://www.mycounty-line.com