Issuu

â€‰For Your Information

2019

F.Y. I.

Opportunity knocks

A publication of

in Rockdale and Milam County, your guide to resources in the area

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Reporter photo

The heart shaped rock that reads Welcome to Rockdale that sits in front of City Hall was first placed near the western entrance to the city. Crews from Mine Services and Commercial Contracting placed the petrified rock taken from Sandow Mine near the US 79-FM 1786 intersection in 2004.

Welcome to Rockdale A

built a new football stadium with s mayor of Rockdale, I want to extend a warm welcome AstroTurf. The City contracted with to all newcomers, guests the YMCA to manage the city pool, and local citizens. As you’ll read in which has provided many new this publication, our city has much offerings at the pool. A splash pad to offer its residents as well as visis currently under construction at itors. Sumuel Park to be completed this The City of Rockdale commuyear. In an effort to make Rockdale nity continually works together to more pedestrian friendly, the sidemake Rockdale a great place to live walks in downtown Rockdale are and raise a family. In the past ten being redesigned, new sidewalks years, the city has strived to reinare being installed from City Hall vent itself and has succeeded. in the east to the west of town past Mayor John King Exciting things are happening and Walmart and Highway 79 is underwe are actively improving quality going resurfacing. of life and infrastructure. We are continually pursuing new businesses A short list of our accomplishments include: and will continue our efforts to make Rockdale a Rockdale Independent School District recently great place to live and raise families.

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Milam County Courthouse is located at 102 S. Fannin Ave., Cameron, TX 76520. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic places.

Welcome to Milam County

from Brazos, Travis, Williamson and ilam County has a long and rich history as one of the Bell counties have discovered the original 23 Texas municibeauty and charm of Milam Counpalities. In 1837, it was the largest ty and many have decided to put county in Texas stretching from the down roots and now live here and Gulf Coast to the Panhandle. The commute to work. county seat is located in downtown The county is growing with new Cameron in a Renaissance Revivbusiness as well. Aggressive ecoal architecture styled courthouse nomic development plans of the made of local cream-colored limecounty and its two major cities stone that was built in 1890 and have attracted new business. We placed on the National Register of offer plentiful electricity through Historic Places in 1977. our power grid including our 340 Milam County is centrally locatkv power lines that originate west Milam County Judge ed in the heart of Texas, with an of Rockdale at the old Alcoa site. Steve Young easy commute to Austin, Bryan-Col The single best asset of the lege Station, Temple and Waco. The county is its people. Truly, salt county offers peaceful country living and reasonable of the earth common sense, friendly, hardworkland prices within range of all the amenities of a ing people, who will welcome you to the County. big city. The county is situated between the Black- So please come join us in tranquil, friendly, Milam land Prairie and Post Oak Savannah regions. People County, Texas.

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Rockdale Historical Society presents the

Rockdale I&GN Depot Museum ~ Built in 1906 ~

11 N. Main St. • Rockdale, TX 76567 • 512-446-2020 • rockdale_depot@att.net Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Sunday 1-4 pm, or by appointment

RENTALS AVAILABLE: DEPOT, CABOOSE, DINING CAR

Family Dentistry Welcoming New Patients

Providing comprehensive, gentle dental care to Milam County and the surrounding area since 1982.

Family Dentistry

Cindy Bell, Dr. Larry Jones, Sandy Jones RN RDH, Kim Westbrook, Denise Starnes RDH, Dolores Sullivan, Shirley Leopold

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Larry Don Jones DDS 302 Meadow Drive Rockdale, TX 76567 (512) 446-2535 5

Businesses always welcome

new opportunities for businesses n behalf of the Rockdale Chamber of Commerce, I while helping to maintain a healthy would like to welcome you community environment. to Milam County. Whether you’re here The Chamber is a proud sponvisiting, just moving in, or already a sor of events throughout the year member of our community, we are to help support the community. here to make your time enjoyable. I am grateful for all of our board The history of the city of Rockdale members, committee volunteers dates back to 1873, and the Chamber and ambassadors, who tirelesswas established in 1952 to support ly ensure our events bring peoand advocate for the success of our ple, organizations and businesses area businesses. Our mission as the together to support one another. Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is to I encourage you to reach out to preserve and promote the economic a Rockdale Chamber of Commerce Rockdale Chamber Chair interest and well being of Rockdale. representative anytime you need Cassidy Paschall As the 2019 Chamber chair, I am a business service. We are willing excited to work close with our dedto help share our knowledge and icated board, where our members actively pro- integrated connectivity. Working together creates mote the area business climate. We are creating a stronger voice for a stronger community.

Welcomes 3,4,6 CIty of Rockdale 8 Milam County 12 City Map 16 Utilities and services 18 Appraisal District, tax rates 20 For Your Information

2019

F.Y. I.

Opportunity knocks

A publication of

in Rockdale and Milam County, your guide to resources in the area

ARTICLE INDEX Economic Development 21 Medical Facilities 22 Library 23 Newspaper 24 Public schools 26 Higher education 30

Cover photo and design by Shannon Whorton. The red bellied woodpecker made famous by the anthropomorphic Woody Woodpecker at Walter Lantz Studios made its home in a dead tree inside the Rockdale city limits. It’s barred back and gleaming red crown make this noise maker a joy to watch. It can also stick out its tongue nearly two inches past the end of its beak. Wha ha hahaha! Wha ha hahaha!

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City Hall located at 505 W. Cameron Ave. is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.1 2 : 3 0 p. m . a n d 1:30-4:30 p.m. Reporter photo

City of Rockdale

ocated in South Central Texas, in the eastern end of the Post Oak Belt, just miles from its intersection with the Blackland Prairie, Rockdale was settled in 1873-74, years when it was the western terminus of the International & Great Northern Railroad. Below is listed information about the government that runs the city.

CITY COUNCIL

(Term expiration in parentheses)

Mayor John King (May 2022) East ward

City Council Rockdale citizens adopted a new Home Rule City Charter in 2016. Michelle Larkin (May 2022), Richard Coppedge It provides for a mayor and six city council (May 2021), Denise Wallace (May 2020) members, three council members each from an east ward and a west ward. West ward The mayor is elected at large. Terms for all are three years. Terms are scattered where two members are elected each year. A mayor is elected every third year. Regular city council meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Rockdale City Hall, corner Belinda Hillhouse (May 2022), Jason Barcak (May of Cameron and Wilcox (US 79 and FM 487). 2021), Doug Calame (May 2020)

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CITY STAFF

Administration Chris Whittaker, cit y manager; Terr y Blanchard, city secretary; Theresa Burgess, administrative assistant; Sandra Ellis, treasurer; Susie Birdcamp, receptionist; Curah Beard, marketing director; Barbara Holly, director; Lon Williams, building official. Municipal Court Jerry Waggoner, judge; Paula Phillips, court clerk. Library Melanie Todd, librarian/director; Ariel Buentello, Isabel Schuch, Brenda Burks, aides. Police Department Thomas Harris, chief; Stephen Goodrich, lieutenant; Jody Tillery, sergeant; Corey Puente, Joah McCaleb, Dillian Ford, Davin Stevens,

Jonathan Richardson, Michael Hubnik, Jeremiah Harden, officers; Shana Goodrich, office administrator; Tracy Rodriguez, Esther Cole, Sandra Kunkel, Trina Young, telecommunicators; Janiece Armagost animal control officer. Public Works Jason Hubbell, director; Bobby Joe Tindle, foreman; Jimmy Palmo, parks/cemeteries technician; Jeffrey Baggerly, Basilio Salazar, Anthony Conover, parks/streets technicians; Frank Flores, Daniel Martel, Danny Davis, streets/ parks technicians; James Barnett, streets equipment operator; Billy J. Tindle, streets equipment operator I; Joseph Montelongo, wastewater utility superintendent; Paul Nieto, water/wastewater heavy equipment operator; Josh Smith, Brandon Seelke, Matt McGowan, Justin Williams, water/wastewater technician; Makayla Wardlow, wastewater technician.

Reporter photo

Brand-new digs After seven-years of planning, the Rockdale Police Station opened in April 2019 on the corner of East Cameron (US 79) and Green. In April 2012, Police Chief Thomas Harris reported the state of disrepair to the then 97-year-old building the station housed in. Four years later, the council agreed to spend $3 million on a new police station. Local businessman Lin Perry presented a proposal for the lot where the new building is currently situated.

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City Airport Board Oversees Coffield Airport and makes recommendations to the City Council for action. Meets as necessary. Members—Ray Kuchera (chair), Kent Givens, James Cox Jr., Jack Cooper, Charles Matula, council member Doug Calame. Building Standards Commission Conducts hearings on matters concerning building compliance with city rules and regulations and makes recommendations to the City Council for action. Meets as necessary. Members—Richard Henderson, Elmo Miller, James Earley. Cemetery Committee Takes up matter dealing with city cemeteries and makes recommendations to the City Council for action. Meets as necessary.

Members—Wallace Jones, Jack Brooks, Paul Luckey, Ernest Garza, Margaret Green, council member Jason Barcak. Library Board Deals with matter pertaining to the Lucy Hill Patterson Memorial Library, makes recommendations to the City Council for action. Meets quarterly on the first Thursday at 6 p.m. Members—Sharon Cloud (chair), Kris Reuter, Don Stockton, Michelle Earley, Sherilyn Johnson, Dolores Sonntag, Melanie Todd (librarian), council members Belinda Hillhouse, Denise Wallace. Municipal Development District Appointed by, but independent of, the city, performs economic development for Rockdale with a mission to attract new businesses and support existing businesses. Needs council approval of some matters.

YOUR MILAM COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

The Sheriff’s Office maintains a force of fifteen patrol deputies and investigators. Deputies are available 24 hours a day seven days a week to respond to service-calls, emergencies, traffic complaints, and criminal activities. In addition to our Patrol Division, we have five jail deputies in charge of inmate transports and court services, and a school resource deputy assigned to the Cameron ISD. The Milam County Jail is staffed with 28 Corrections Officers and seven various Jail Staff members who are all working hard every day to maintain the safety and security of the inmates in the jail. Additionally, there are ten very professional ladies who make up our Communications and Records Division. Our Dispatchers make sure that when someone calls for help, help is sent to them as quickly as possible. My staff and I take a proactive approach to keeping our citizens safe and utilize advancements in technology to make our efforts more efficient and successful. We are dedicated to serving you, The People, and we vow to uphold your rights and freedoms, equally, as guaranteed by the Constitution of both the United States of America and of this great State of Texas. Please visit our website for more details and information at:

milamcountysherifftx.org 512 N. Jefferson Suite A ~ Cameron Texas 76520 Phone - 254-697-7033 ~ Fax - 254-697-7037 ~ Jail - 254-697-7063

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City Meets the fourth Monday of each month at 6 p.m. Members—Dr. John Weed III (president), John McKenzie, Allan Miller, Elissa Benford-Roberts, Bobby Pelzel, Dr. Denise Monzingo, Trent Wages, council member Michelle Larkin. Executive director is Kara Clore.

Meets as necessary. Members—Doug Williams (chair), Barkley Lagrone, Sharon Cloud, Judith Slusher, Joan Ratliff, Charles Miles, Jerry Waggoner, council member Belinda Hillhouse. Save the Old City Hall

Parks Board Oversees city parks and recreation facilities, makes recommendations to the City Council for action. Meets quarterly on the third Thursday at 6 p.m. Members—L. C. Richards (chair), Michael Duncan, Lisa Benford-Roberts, Koye Bleeker, council member Richard Coppedge. Planning and Zoning Comission Oversees zoning and other meetings, holds hearings and makes recommendations to the city council for action.

City Hall, built in 1895, was home to the police department for 17 years.

The STOCH group is interested in preser ving the building which s e r ve d a s R o c kdale’s police station. Contact Geri Burnett with photos and/or memories of the building at 512-446-5057.

Hotel Lodging America’s Best Value Inn 221 N. U.S. Hwy 77, Rockdale 512-446-5800 ABVIRockdaleInn.com Days Inn 221 US 77, Rockdale 512-446-5800 DaysInn.com Rainbow Courts Motel 915 E Cameron Ave, Rockdale 512-446-2361 RainbowCourts.com Regency Inn 213 US 77, Rockdale 512-446-7555 RegencyInnandSuites.com Rockdale Inn 1200 W Cameron Ave, Rockdale 512-446-2575 Quality Inn 702 W Hwy 79, Rockdale 512-446-3600 ChoiceHotels.com

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Milam County, an original place

ilam County was once a giant. As created by the Republic of Texas in 1837 it occupied one-sixth of Texas. When it was downsized in 1850, the land which was the original county formed, in whole or part, 33 other counties. Milam County includes part of the Post Oak Belt and the agriculturally rich Blackland Prairie. It is located in the center of a triangle formed by three Texas metropolitan areas, Austin, Temple-Killeen and Bryan-College Station.

County facilities Most of the county’s offices are located in Cameron although several have satellite facilities in Rockdale. The courthouse is located in downtown Cameron with numerous other offices in the area. Note: At presstime for preparation of this publication, county commissioners were investigating the feasibility of moving most of the county’s offices to the former Little River-Cameron Hospital at 708 North Crockett, out of the downtown area. Commissioners Court The commissioners court is the general governing body of the county. Presiding officer is the county judge. It sets the county tax rate, adopts budgets, establishes voting precincts, maintains roads and bridges, appoints and hires county employees and much more. Commissioners court meets the second and fourth Mondays at 10 a.m. in the courthouse. • County Judge—Steve Young, 254-697-7000. • Commissioner, Pct. 1—Richard “Opey” Watkins, 254-593-3171. • Pct. 2—Donald Shuffield, 254-697-7054. • Pct. 3—John Fisher, 512-446-2580. Reporter photo • Pct. 4—Jeff Muegge, 512-898-2115. The bronze of Benjamin Rush Milam, the counCounty Auditor ty’s namesake, was erected in 1936 by the State The County Auditor’s primary responsibility is of Texas to commemorate one hundred years of to oversee financial record-keeping for the coun- Texas Independence. It sits on the courthouse ty and to assure that all expenditures comply with lawn. He commanded Texas forces in the 1800s. the county budget. Location, Milam County Annex 103 West Main, Cameron 254-697-7026; Monday through Friday, 8 records, official bond records, military discharge records and other miscellaneous records. The office a.m. to 12-noon, 1 to 5 p.m. is responsible for legal instruments which include • County Auditor, Danica Lara. real and personal property, power of attorney filings, bonds, plats, marks and brands, assume names, County Clerk The County Clerk is the registrar for filing and deputation records, issuance of bail bond checks, recording all birth and death certificates, trust fund beer and wine hearings, wills for safekeeping, pro-

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County bates, guardianships, civil cases and misdemeanor cases. The Election and Voter Registration Department is a part of the County Clerk’s office. Location, 107 West Main, Cameron, 254-697-7049; Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • County Clerk, Jodi Morgan. • Deputy Clerks. Susanne Gelner, Nancy Tucker, Jennifer Northcott, Holly Dohnalik, Annisha Williams. Monica Montez. Supervisor and Corrections Department provides offenders placed on supervision the opportunity to change criminal attitudes and behaviors through implementation of services and sanctions. Location, 103 South Fannin, Cameron; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday; 254-697-7022. • Michelle Preston, director. Constables Texas constables are licensed peace officer who perform various law enforcement functions. Among

their duties are serving warrants and civil papers. • John Anderle, Constable Pct. 1. • Charlie West, Constable Pct. 2. • Jay Beathard, Constable Pct. 3. • Michael Moehling, Constable Pct. 4. County/District Attorney The County/DA prosecutes criminal cases in district courts, county courts, and justice courts. The district attorney represents the state in asset forfeiture cases, bond forfeitures cases, juvenile matters, protective orders, child protective services, and aids crime victims through its victim assistance coordinator. Located in the Blake Building, 204 North Central, Cameron; 254-697-7013; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. • Bill Torrey, County/District Attorney. • Staff—Assistant County/District Attorney, Kyle Nuttall; Paralegal/Office Manager, Donelle Keen; Investigator, Anthony Robertson; Paralegal/Hot Check/CPS, Veronica Jones; Felony Legal Assistant/ Receptionist, Kim McGowan; Misdemeanor Legal Assistant, Collie Terry; Victim Assistance Coordina2008 Highland Ave. Rockdale, TX 76567

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INTEGRITY

County tor, Kristi Dalbey.

District Clerk Milam County’s District Clerk serves as registrar, recorder and custodian of all 20th District Court pleadings and legal causes of action. Located in the Blake Building, 204 North Central, Cameron; 254-697-7052; 8 a,n, to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. • Karen Berry, District Clerk. • Deputy Clerks—Misty Kirk, Cindy Vrazel, Esther Vargas, Margot Contreras, Renee Young; third floor, courthouse, 254-697-7052; 8 a.m. to 12-noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. District Judge The District Judge presides over 20th District Court along with many other duties including making appointments and serving on boards. • John Youngblood, District Judge. • Court Coordinator/reporter—Angela Ralston, second floor, courthouse, 254-697-7010; 8 a.m. to 12-noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Emergency Management/Homeland Security Under the direction and control of the county judge, administers a program of Comprehensive Emergency Management, designed to reduce the vulnerability of the citizens and communities of Milam County to damage, to injury, and to loss of life and property by providing a system for the mitigation of, preparedness for, response to and recovery from natural or man-made disasters. First floor, courthouse, 254-697-7060; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. • Susan Reinders, coordinator.

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C Health Department The Health Department protects and immunizes residents against health threats, educates on health-related matters, provides regular and special clinics and monitors health issues. Rockdale office/clinic—One-Stop Center, Bell at

Reporter photo

The Milam County Jail Museum on 112 W. First St. in Cameron served as the county’s jail from 1875 to 1975. The Romanesque revival style features stone detailing above windows and a hanging tower with trap door.

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County Main, 512-446-4026; Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12-noon, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Cameron office/clinic—209 South Houston, 254-697-7039; office hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; clinic hours, Monday and Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 12-noon and 1 to 5 p.m.; first Monday of each month, 8 a.m. to 12-noon and 1 to 6 p.m. • Robert Kirkpatrick, director. • Dr. S. H. Richardson MD, county health authority. Justices of the Peace Justices of the Peace preside over J-P Courts which deal with misdemeanors, small civil disputes, landlord-tenant disputes and others. They may also conduct inquests and perform marriages. • Greg Hoelscher, Justice of the Peace Pct. 1, 512 N. Jefferson, Cameron; 254-697-7004; Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12-noon and 1 to 5 p.m. • Sam Berry, Justice of the Peace Pct. 2, 512 N. Jefferson, Cameron; 254-697-7008; 8 a.m to 12-noon, 1-5 p.m., Monday through Thursday; Friday, 1-5 p.m. • Andy Isaacs, Justice of the Peace Pct. 3, 313 N. Main, Rockdale; 512-446-5214; Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Gary Northcott, Justice of the Peace Pct. 4; 123 S. Main, Thorndale; 512-898-5252; Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12-noon, 1 to 4 p.m. Juvenile Probation Department Juvenile Probation Department supervises youths who are placed on probation through the court system, working closely with law enforcement, schools and parents. Office is 103 West Main, Cameron; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday; 254-697-7026. • Jennifer Lopez, Chief Juvenile Probation Officer.

the

• STAFF—Donna Polson, Victoria Melcher, juvenile probation officers; Galindo Banda, juvenile probation officer/TJJD Parole Officer; Chris Lopez, juvenile intensive supervision probation officer; Angela White, counselor. Sheriff’s Department The law enforcement agency for all unincorporated areas of the county, the sheriff’s department also maintains and administers the county jail and works closely with municipal police departments and all other law enforcement agencies. It has a new, public-oriented website at https://www.milamcountysherifftx.org/ which enables viewers to access information on sex offenders, inmates in the county jail, an interactive crime map and much more. Located in Milam County Law Enforcement Center, 512 North Jefferson, Cameron; 254-697-7033, available to answer calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week. CrimeStoppers tips—1-888-697-8477. • Chris White, Sheriff. • Sheriff operations—Mike Clore, captain; John Mendoza, William Behler, lieutenants; John Vargas, Sam Ferguson V, patrol sergeants; Amberley Weyand, Robert Weyand, Bret Wier, Stephen Hanel, Joshua Perez, Juan Paniagua, Ryan Blankenmeier, Lauren Hensley, deputies; Nathan Law, patrol deputy; Robert Wagnon, school resource officer; Wynema Adams, sheriff’s administrative assistant; Annette Vargas Montez, records clerk; Angela Schoppe, records clerk part-time. • Jail operations—Doug Veach, administrator; Amber Knowlton-O’Donnell, jailer; Rebecca Ferguson, booking/jailer; James Pratt, captain; Kim Stewart, transport coordinator; John Torres, lieutenant Continued on page 25

A merican L egion Carlyle Post 358 2534 N. FM 487 (P.O. Box 501) Rockdale, TX 76567 • 512-446-2996 alrockdale358@gmail.com Like us on Facebook: American Legion Carlyle Post 358

Veteran’s Services Gun Range Building Rentals

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Camaraderie. Youth. Defense. Americanism. Communities.

CITY OF ROCKD Garbage Collection Days Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday

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CKDALE, TEXAS

Map courtesy of Morning Star Publishing House, Elgin, Texas, 512-925-6034

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Utilities/services

he City of Rockdale proves utility services including water, sewer and garbage collection. In addition the city provides leaf and brush pick up service to its residential garbage customers.

tank at the Texas Street pump station. Finally, Rockdale has about 271,000 linear feet (about 51.3 miles) of water distribution lines that range in size from 1-12 inches. To request a water meter be reread, call 512-446-2511. The city’s wastewater treatment plant, loWater, sewer cated on Beverly Street, is permitted to treat The city provides fresh water service and up to 1,250,000 gallons per day. In addition, sewer/wastewater service to all city residents the city has about 271,000 linear feet (about and commercial customers. 51.3 miles) of wastewater lines ranging in size The city’s water treatment plant on Mill Av- from 6-24 inches. enue can treat up to 3.66 million gallons per Homeowners are responsible for mainday and the Texas Street water plant treats up taining the lateral wastewater line from your an additional 1.58 million gallons per day, for house to the wastewater main, even though a total system capacity of 5.24 million gallons part of the line may be on public property. per day. There are two elevated water storage Call 512-446-2511 for more information. tanks. The Mill Street tank can hold 150,000 gallons of water, and the Allday tank can hold Electricity 200,000 gallons of water. As per state law, residents can choose The city also has a 285,000-gallon ground- which retail electric provider to use for elecwater storage tank at the Mill Street pump tric service. Oncor Electric owns the poles station and a 500,000-gallon ground storage and wires in the Rockdale city limits. The Pub-

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F.Y.I.

lic Utility Commission of Texas website offers a listing of all 129 electrical providers in the Milam County area. Visit their website powertochoose.org for a listing and price comparison of these providers. Natural gas Atmos Energy Corporation is the natural gas-only distributor to the City of Rockdale. They are headquartered in Dallas and service more than 3 millions customers in over 1,400 communities across eight states. They also manage the proprietary pipeline and storage facilities in Texas. They can be contacted via website at atmosenergy.com or by calling 888-286-6700. Telephone The primary local phone company in Rockdale for landline service is AT&T. For service questions or information visit their website or call 800-288-2020.

Garbage/Brush Collection The City of Rockdale offers garbage collection once a week for residential and small business owners through its contract with Waste Connections. See map on pages 16-17 for a guide to garbage collection days by street. The city also provides a bulky waste collection site at the Public Works facility on weekdays from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., except on holiday. It is located at: Bulky Waste Collection Site Open weekdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m., except on holidays 301 Mill Avenue Rockdale, TX 76567 512-446-5620 Brush collection Call City Hall at 512-446-2511 for brush/ tree cuttings removal.

Look for these upcoming special sections ME VOLU XIII

Gridiron ~ August 29, 2019 The Brainy Rockdale Fair ~ October 17, 2019 Bunch Hunting Guide ~ October 31, 2019 Thanksgiving Greetings ~ November 28, 2019 Letters to Santa ~ December 19, 2019 Diamond ~ February 20, 2020 HUNTING DIAMOND GUIDE Easter Greeting ~ April 9, 2020 Graduation Tab ~ May 21, 2020 FYI Digest ~ July 30, 2020

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Inside :

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Meet the Milam County Game Warden

INSI Rockdale of the Coverage Lady Tigers in Tigers and Soccer, Softball, Baseball, lifting, Tennis, Golf, Power Basketball Track and

Life Lessons in a Deer Blind

To advertise, call or email Cassidy Paschall, 512-446-5838, cassidy@rockdalereporter.com

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Milam Appraisal District

he Milam Appraisal District determines values on every piece of real estate in Milam County. Each May, property owners will be mailed the appraised values of their properties. They have 30 days to file a formal protest if they disagree with the numbers. The appraisal district office welcomes taxpayers to visit them for discussions about any property values they may find questionable. Oftentimes, having a quick visit offers both the appraisers and property owners some insight into the situation. Because of the open line of communication, resolutions often occur at that point. The Milam Appraisal District building is located at 120 N. Houston, Cameron, TX 76520. Phone 254-697-6638 or visit milamad. org. Hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

2018 Tax Rates (per $100 valuation) City of Rockdale $.911 Milam County $.730 Buckholts $.311 Cameron $.753 Milano $.250 Thorndale $.750 School districts Rockdale ISD Buckholts ISD Cameron ISD Gause ISD Milano ISD Thorndale ISD

$1.36 $1.10 $1.37 $1.04 $1.45 $1.17

City

publ

Subscribe to If you would like a subscription, fill out this coupon, call 512-446-5838 or go to www.rockdalereporter.com to sign up. You can get the traditional paper version or an online subscription—or both. With an online subscription, you have access to all the news, photos, sports and advertising that is in the traditional paper, you just won’t have to wait so long to get it. It’s like getting a letter from home every week!  $40 in Milam County  $45 elsewhere in Texas  $50 outside of Texas For an online subscription or online-print combination,

you may go to www.rockdalereporter.com to subscribe. Name______________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________ City______________________________ State__________________ Zip___________ Credit Card #___________________________________ Expires________________ All major credit cards accepted. Mail to: The Rockdale Reporter, Box 552, Rockdale, TX 76567

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Trio of services

Rockdale Chamber of Commerce he Rockdale Chamber of Commerce strives to give members of the Rockdale business community a place to share a vision for the future of Rockdale, a sounding board to create more business opportunities and a vehicle to help promote the economic interests and well-being of the community. The chamber is a community based, non-profit organization chartered July 18, 1952 for the purpose economic improvement of Rockdale. The first president of the Chamber was J.B. Newton and its board of directors were: W.H. Cooke, E.C. Dillen, Alex McLeod, A.A. Goehler, Louis G. Gest, R.E. Fritz, T.B. Ryan and John M. Weed, Sr. When they met for the first time in Octobert of 1952 they stated: “The Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is not just an organiza-

City of Rockdale Marketing arketing Director Curah Beard is responsible for developing and implementing pro-active and effective public relations and marketing programs to

Reporter photo

Rockdale Chamber of Commerce’s rock house was constructed in 1937 out of petrified wood that was common to the area at that time. It became the Chamber office in 1995. tion; it is the spirit of the whole body of citizens and a medium through which any individual may work for community betterment.” support and stimulate economic development in the City of Rockdale. The director will focus on filling existing venues in Rockdale with an emphasis on “heads in beds” events as well as promoting events funded by HOT funds.

BILL TORREY

COUNTY AND DISTRICT ATTORNEY MILAM COUNTY, TEXAS THE BLAKE BUILDING (254) 697-7013 204 N. CENTRAL Fax: (254) 697-7016 CAMERON, TEXAS 76520 1-800-216-0490 Email: daoffice@milamcounty.net Reporter photo

RMDD is located at 134 N. Main St., Rockdale. Call 512-446-2111 for information. Rockdale Municipal Development District enefiting, strengthening and diversifying the economic base of Rockdale is the mission of Rockdale Municipal Development District (RMDD). Rockdale residents voted in 2010 to create the RMDD, which collects a half-cent sales tax on all items in the district subject to sales tax. Its jurisdiction includes the Rockdale city limits. The money is collected and used for economic development.

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Winnie L Nursing & Rehabilitation offers a SECURE UNIT for residents requiring additional assistance due to Alzheimer’s or Dementia.

Health care in Rockdale

Rockdale’s Health Care is bouncing back from a major setback but the diagnosis is good. In December, 2018, Little River Health Care closed down its Rockdale hospital and two associated clinics. The former Richards Memorial Hospital had been open for 44 years. But Rockdale’s health community didn’t take it lying down. One new clinic reopened in February and another, with the backing of a major Central Texas health care provider is promised during the fall.

ROCKDALE MEDICAL—Rockdale Medical Clinic opened Feb. 11 at 520 North Main, the longtime site of the Rockdale Medical Association Clinic. Medical staff logged in patients at the new Rockdale Medical Clinic in February of this year. Reporter photo

The clinic, operating under cardiologist Dr. Jeremiah Havins and Nurse-Practitioner Terry Buchanan, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone is 512-429-0189. Rockdale Medical Clinic ser ves patients 12 and up. ST. JOSEPH’S—The Rockdale Hospital contacted CHI-St Joseph’s in Bryan and that well-respected major player in Central Texas health care plans to open a clinic this fall, through Health Point rural health, on the former Rockdale hospital campus. It’s been a complex series of events as the hospital board had to wait for buildings to be released through the complicated Little River bankruptcy process. At FYI presstime there was still uncertainty over funding for the venture as the hospital district sought to reclaim a sales tax which the district once used for health care but has been used for the Rockdale Municipal Development District’s (MDD) economic development efforts.

Providing high quality medical care, customer service, and commitment to health and wellness for all of our patients. 200 Sydney Blvd. ~ Thorndale, TX 76577 ~ www.countrymeadowsclinic.com P: 512-898-4001 ~ F: 512-898-4201 ~ F: 512-399-5274 (medical records fax)

A joyful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 17:22 22

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Lucy Hill Patterson Memorial Library

Photo by Peter Parker

Rockdale’s library got its start in 1953 with a donation of 2,300 books from the Texas State Library. Dr. George Hill Patterson’s $12,500

donation in memory of his mother who was born in Rockdale and numerous other donations have helped sustain the community library.

he Lucy Hill Patterson Memorial Library is a member of the Central Texas Library System. The two-story building houses a collection of more than 33,000 volumes of print and in video, audio, and large print format materials to over 11,500 patrons throughout Milam County. It has 12 computer work stations for patrons. The second story is reserved for it’s extensive children’s collection. Upstairs children can cuddle with a good book in the many nooks and crannies furnished with pillows and chairs. The library also offers summer reading programs, story times for pre-schoolers and computer workstations. It also works with the Literacy Volunteers of Milam County and the Milam County Genealogical Society. Lucy Hill Patterson Memorial Library 201 Ackerman Street Rockdale, TX 76567 512-446-3410 Fax: 512-446-5597 pattersonlib@rockdalecityhall.com rockdalelibrarytx.org

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Library staff from left to right are, Isabel Schuch, library aide, Melanie Todd, librarian; Ariel Buentello and Brenda Burks library aides.

Hours

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays – 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturdays – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

he Rockdale Reporter has been the No. 1 source of information about Milam County since 1873, which is one year longer than the town Rockdale. The Cooke family bought the newspaper in June 1911 and it has been continuously owned and operated by the family. The paper is available in traditional print format and online. It offers residents and visitors comprehensive coverage of the county. WHO Editor Mike Brown

mike@rockdalereporter.com

Staff writer Wynton Thomason

Classified ad rep Gloria Zapata

gloria@rockdalereporter.com

Production Shannon Whorton

wynton@rockdalereporter.com

shannon@rockdalerporter.com

Advertising rep Cassidy Paschall

Office staff Suzy Ammon

cassidy@rockdalereporter.com

suzy@rockdalerporter.com

Circulation staff Cliff Dungan

cliff@rockdalerepoter.com

Bertha Mills William Follis

Publishers Ken Esten Cooke / Christine Granados

kencooke@rockdalereporter.com christine@rockdalereporter.com

Publishers Emeritus J.W. (Bill) Cooke Peggy Cooke

WHAT The Rockdale Reporter offers both print and online editions of the weekly newspaper. The Reporter’s print circulation is 3,000. Its digital subscribers are 200 plus and its online page views are upwards of 14,000, 3,200 of which are unique users. WHERE The Rockdale Reporter can be found at 221 E. Cameron; online at rockdalereporter.com; Facebook users can like The Rockdale Reporter’s page and on Twitter @ReportRockdale.

Cindy Lindeman, MS Licensed Professional Counselor

Individual and Family Therapy with Children, Adolescents and Adults Accepting Medicaid and most major insurances cindylindeman1964@gmail.com 125 N. Main St. • Rockdale, Texas 76567 Office: (512) 543-5112 Cell: (830) 459-8468

Central Texas Leading Realty Since 1954

Carol Worley - Broker/Owner 221 Ackerman St. Rockdale, TX 76567 Office: 512-446-3706 Fax: 512-446-3268 Email: cmatous1@yahoo.com www.jimcurreyrealty.com

Commercial & Residential

963 N. FM 908 • Rockdale, TX 76567

Your hometown builder and remodeler since 1979 512-446-2693 ~ blandcc.com ~ charles@blandcc.com 24

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Tuesday – late breaking news. WHEN The newspaper is published on Thursday Advertising deadlines: noon, Monday – Clasand distributed on Wednesday. Subscribers can sified ads; 5 p.m. Monday – Display ads receive a print edition in the mail or online. Newspapers are also available on racks and HOW newsstands located in the city. Regular busiTelephone 512-446-5838 ness hours are Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fax 512-446-5317 and Friday 8 a.m.-noon. Address News deadlines: 10 a.m., Monday – letters to 221 E. Cameron the editor; noon, Monday – general news, rural P.O. Box 552 community correspondence (Thursday and Rockdale, TX 76567 Friday news releases are encouraged); 11 a.m.

County jail deputy; Clayton Domel, Samuel Ferguson IV, Jonathan Mendoza, jail deputies; Charles Self, bailiff/jail deputy; Jamie Wells, Tamarha Kelley, Jeremy Knaus, sergeants; Cindy McBee, sergeant/training officer; Heather Gustum, Sandra Dworaczyk, Priscilla Herrera, corporals; Bonnie Acosta, Isaac Cervantes, Jaz’Mine Jones-Eaglin, Crystal Corley, Teresa Wilson, Alexander Infantino, Titus Lewis, Sheila Lagrone, Steven Aguilar, Darius Ford, jailers. Tax Assessor-Collector Collects taxes for Milam County and other taxing authorities, calculate taxes on property, including agricultural land, timberland, and railroad rolling stock, and then billing statements are mailed to taxpayers. The office is also responsible for motor vehicle registrations and the collection of related fees and taxes. Rockdale Office—One-Stop Center, Bell at Main; 512446-5103; 8 a.m. to 12-noon, 1-4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Cameron Main Office—101 South Fannin, 254-6977017, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sherry Mueck, Tax Assessor Collector. • STAFF—Cindy De La Rosa, chief deputy; Alejandra Good, Janie Mendoza, Heather Wall, Adrianna Zawadzke, deputy clerks. Treasurer Chief custodian of county finances, the treasurer’s office is charged with the safekeeping and investing of county funds. Location, Milam County Annex, 103 W. Main, Cameron; 254-696-7032; 8 a.m. to 12-noon, 2 to 5 p.m. • Linda Acosta, Treasurer. Veterans Service Officer Assists veterans, including answering questions,

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Continued from page 15 advising and educating individuals and groups what benefits are available. The VSO also aids veterans in filling out forms. Rockdale Office—One-Stop Center, Bell at Main; 512-446-5103; 8 a.m. to 12-noon, 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday. Cameron Office—Blake Building, 204 North Central; 254-697-7031; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. • Ken Janicek, Veterans Service Officer.

Steve Young Milam County Judge We’re Moving Milam Foward syoung1088@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/steve.young.71216

Public Schools in Milam County

Rockdale High School was renovated in 2009 and 424 students in grades 9th through 12th attended in 2018-19.

Rockdale ISD Central Office

Susan Pantaleon, assistant principal 512-430-6140 Denise Monzingo, superintendent P.O. Box 632 | 520 West Davilla, Rockdale, TX 76567 Rebecca Ingram, counselor (students M-Z) 512-430-6140 ext. 2140 Phone: 512-430-6000 Kelly Wyndham, counselor (students A-L) 512-430-6140 x 2150 Rockdale High School 500 Childress Drive Tiffany Whitsel, principal Rockdale, TX 76567 512-430-6140 512-430-6140 phone Brent Hasselbach, assistant principal 512-446-3512 fax 512-430-6140 Rockdale Independent School District The second largest school district in Milam County, Rockdale has a current enrollment of 1,464 students attending four different campuses. RISD fast facts: Budget total $14,736,606; Taxable value: $439,862,157. Tax rate: Maintenance and Operations (M&O) $1.17; Interest and Sinking (I&S) .19 cents; Total $1.36.

Student Ethnicity: White 39%, Black 9%, Hispanic 48%, other 4%. Rockdale ISD Board of Trustees meetings are held 5:30 p.m., the third Monday of every month at the Rockdale High School Library at 500 Childress Drive, Rockdale, Texas. Trustees are: Troy Zinn, president; Lin Perry, vice president; Wenda Dyer, secretary; Raymon Puente, Charles Miles, Julia Cardona and Amy Casas.

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Rockdale Elementary School Alesha Eoff, principal 512-430-6030 x5010 April Eichberger, assistant principal 512-430-6030 x5010 625 W Belton Rockdale, TX 76567 512-430-6030 phone 512-446-5229 fax

Rockdale Elementary is located on West Belton Street and serves 364 students in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. The building’s 1950s architecture features a lion and elephant raised from the bricks at the front entrance of the building.

Rockdale Intermediate School Kathy Pelzel, principal 512-430-6200 Keely Reisner,counselor 512-430-6200 1338 West Highway 79 Rockdale, TX 76567 512-430-6200 phone 512-446-3682 fax

Rockdale Intermediate opened its doors to 327 students in 2009. It is located about two miles west of Rockdale on Highway 79. It serves 3rd, 4th and 5th graders.

Rockdale Junior High School Kelly Blair, principal 512-430-6100 Heather Webster, assistant principal 512-430-6100 Angela White, counselor 512-430-6100,3140 814 Bushdale Rockdale, TX 76567 512-430-6100 phone 512-446-2597 fax

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Rockdale Junior High is located on Bushdale, just up the road from Tiger Field. It is home to 349 middle school students in grades 6th, 7th and 8th.

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Public schools Buckholts ISD In 2017-18, there were 145 students enrolled in the Buckholts ISD’s high school campus, which serves students in pre-kindergarten to 12th grade. BISD fast facts: Budget total $2,069,715 (2018); Taxable value: $37,487,861 (2015); Tax rate: M&O $1.04; I&S .06 cents; total $3.28. (2015). Student Ethnicity: White 41%, Hispanic 57%, other 2%. (2017). Buckholts ISD Board of Trustees meet the fourth Monday of the month at the Buckholts Elementary School Library located at 203 S. 10th St., Buckholts, TX 76518. Trustees are: Adam Losoya, president; David Meinardus, vice president; Kerri Hernandez, secretary; Jessie Benavidez; Leslie Lorenz; Ricky McCall and Margaret Green. Contact information: Buckholts ISD Central Office, Nancy Day Sandlin superintendent,203 S. 10th, Buckholts, TX 76518; 254-593-2744 or 254-593-3011. Buckholts High School, Kris Shaver, principal, 254627-0500.

Cameron ISD The largest school district in Milam County, Cameron has a current student enrollment of 1,872 across four campuses. They are: Ben Milam Elementary with 577; Cameron Elementary 415; Cameron Junior High 403 and C.H. Yoe High 477. CISD fast facts: Budget total $14,698,063; Taxable value: $323,698,292. Tax rate: M&O $1.04; I&S .33 cents; total $1.37. Student Ethnicity: White 33%, Black 17%, Hispanic 48%, other 2%. Cameron ISD Board of Trustees meetings are held 6 p.m., the second Monday of every month at the administration building at 304 E. 12th Street, Cameron, Texas. Trustees are: Jason Dohnalik, president; Greg Hoelscher, vice president; Franci Denio, secretary; Roy Martinez, James Burks, Michael McAnulty and Alan Patterson. Contact information: Cameron ISD Central Office, Allan Sapp, superintendent, 304 E 12th, Cameron, TX 76520, 254-697-3512,Fax 254-6972448. Ben Milam Elementary, Terry Dawson, principal, 1100 E 21st St., Cameron, TX 76520, 254-697-3641 Cameron Elementary, Wendy Mahan, principal, Cameron Junior High, Wendy Mahan, principal; James Henderson, assistant principal for 4th, 6th and 8th graders; Laci Rasberry, assistant princi-

pal for 3rd, 5th and 7th graders; Choya Vaculin, counselor, 404 E. 22nd, Cameron, TX 76520, 254697-2131, Fax 254-605-0379. C.H. Yoe High, Brian Stork, principal; Christiana Graham, assistant principal; Melissa Shelton, counselor; Cindy Stroud, counselor; 303 E. 12th St., Cameron, TX 76520, 254-697-3902, Fax: 254605-0413. Gause ISD In 2017-18, there were 184 enrolled in Gause ISD, which serves pre-kindergarten through eight grades. GISD fast facts: Budget total $2,229,714; Taxable value: $253,604,688; Tax rate: M&O $1.04; I&S .0 cents; total $1.04. Student Ethnicity: White 50%, Black 11%, Hispanic 35%, other 4%. (2017). Gause ISD Board of Trustees meetings are every month at the Gause ISD at 400 College St., Gause, TX 76556. Trustees are: Bill Jones, president; Linda Hoppe, vice president; Kathy Turner, secretary; Melanie Rasco; Henry Bonorden; Tammy Smith and Randy Grenwelge.

• Metal Buildings • Barns • Roofing • Steel Products • Welding Supplies • Beams • Pipes • Angles • Squares • Plates • Rebar • Culverts • StaTite 50 • High Tensil Wires

512-455-6789 Hwy. 79 E. Milano, Texas sales.crowecompany@gmail.com

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Public, private schools Contact information: Gause ISD, Brad Jones, superintendent/principal, 400 College St., Gause, TX 77857, 979-279-5891.

Contact information: Thorndale ISD Central Office, Adam Ivy, superintendent, 300 N Main St., Thorndale, Texas 76577-0870; 512-898-2538, Fax 512-898-5356. Thorndale Elementary School, Michael Young, prinMilano ISD cipal, 300 N Main St., Thorndale, Texas 76577 In 2018-19, there were 467 enrolled in the Mila- 512-898-2538, Fax 512-898-5541. no ISD’s three campuses – Milano Elementary Thorndale Middle School, Scott Frei, principal School, Milano Junior High School and Milano 300 N Main St., Thorndale, Texas 76577; 512-898High School. 2538, Fax 512-898-5505. MISD fast facts: Budget total $6,104,429; Tax- Thorndale High School, Jennifer Parnham, princiable value: $102,240,524. Tax rate: M&O $1.17; pal, 300 N Main St., Thorndale, Texas 76577; 512-898I&S .28 cents; total $1.45. 2538, Fax 512-898-5090. Student Ethnicity: White 64%, Black 6%, Hispanic 26%, other 4%. (2017). St. Paul Lutheran School Milano ISD Board of Trustees meetings are Serves pre-kindergarten to 8th grade. held 7 p.m., the fourth Thursday of every month David Mueller, principal at the Milano High School Library located at 600 Kelly Brymer, preschool director (pre-kindergarN. 6th Milano, TX 76556. Trustees are: Carl Blake, ten-4 years) president; Shawn Walton, vice president; Lynnette Taylor, secretary; Michael Andrews; Edward 101 N 3rd St P.O. Box 369 Westbrook; Jay Willingham and John Yakesch. Contact information: Milano ISD Central Office, Thorndale, TX 76577 Robert Westbrook, superintendent, 500 N. 5th St., 512-898-2711 Milano, TX 76556; 512-455-2533; 512-455-1200; Fax Fax 512-898-5298 512-455-1201. Milano Elementary School, Courtney Todd, principal 500 N. 5th St., Milano, TX 76556; 512-455-2062, Fax 512-455-1204. Milano Junior High School, Rick Kutcher, principal 600 N. 6th St., Milano, TX 76556; 512-455-6701, Fax 512-455-1203. Milano High School, Catrina Steinbecker, principal 600 N. 6th St., Milano, TX 76556; 512-455-9333, Fax 512-455-1202. Thorndale ISD Thorndale ISD enrolled 541 students across three campuses – Thorndale Elementary School, Thorndale Middle School and Thorndale High School. TISD fast facts: Budget total $6,695,550; Taxable value: $134,201,405. Tax rate: M&O $1.17; I&S .0 cents; total $1.17. Student Ethnicity: White 72%, Black 1%, Hispanic 24%, Other 3%. Thorndale ISD Board of Trustees meetings are held 6:30 p.m., every month at the Thorndale ISD Board Room at 300 N. Main St., Thorndale, TX 76577. Trustees are: David A. Hall, president; Kimberly Biar, vice president; Ann Glenn, secretary; Kirk Becker; Adam Fisher; Dean Betak and Chad Martinka.

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The RDA was established in 2006 as a 501c3, a non-profit organization whose mission is to foster, promote, maintain and encourage the civic, social, commercial, tourist and economic welfare of downtown Rockdale by empowering the merchants in this designated area with guidance and education to the best of our ability and to encourage the consumer for greater patronage through various public activities. Please visit us on Facebook to view current events and projects. Also, let us know if you would like to become a member of this great service organization.

Higher education Institute for Teaching God’s Word Theological Seminary 103 Mulberry St., Rockdale, TX 76567, 512446-5564, itgw-njcc.org

he Institute for Teaching God’s Word has conferred 355 bachelors, masters, doctorate and faith-based counseling degrees, since it began in 1986. The Institute is accredited with the American Association of Theological Institutions. Its theology and biblical studies curriculum is focused on practical skills and biblical knowledge to help pastors and lay leaders lead and grow their congrega- credits may not transfer to other universities. tions. The seminary is not an accredited liberal The seminary was founded by doctors Dennis arts and sciences university and its degrees and L. and Clara Brooks and has 14 instructors.

Nearby universities, colleges The city’s close proximity to large cities offers college-bound students access to top universities in the nation such as, The University of Texas-Austin, Texas A&M University-College Station, Baylor University-Waco, and Southwestern Universi-

ty-Georgetown. Blinn Junior College in Brenham, Temple College in Temple and Austin Community College in Austin attract a large number of students from the Rockdale area. The colleges have a close working relationship with area schools.

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Looking for the Perfect Space to Host Your: Family Reunion Q Birthday Party Q Wedding Festival Q Cook-Off Q Car Show Q Concert Q Dance Horse Show Q Rodeo Q Livestock Event Q Campout Conference Q Seminar Q Company Outing Visit www.RockdaleCityHall.com for information about: • Facility Rental • Patterson Civic Center • Fair Park, Pavilion and Arena • Park Pavilion Reservations • Pool Parties • Lodging

Rockdale Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

he Chamber of Commerce is a community based, non-profit organization designed to help build the business community. For us in Rockdale, it is so much more. Our dedication is first and foremost to our members and businesses, but we are also passionate about the community as a whole. We strive to make sure that our businesses are successful and that we unify the public spirit of our community. Our mission is to preserve and promote the economic interest and well-being of Rockdale. We complete our mission every day by working with all other entities and community groups in Rockdale with the same vision. According to Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives Association, “The Chamber gives members a place where they can become engaged, sharing a vision for the future of their community and sharing the collective influence to make it happen.” At the Rockdale Chamber of Commerce, we believe in these statements and uphold the integrity and poise to be a valued organization within our community. Citizens have a responsibility to join the Chamber of Commerce as a sense of personal obligation to make a positive difference in their community. Another role of the Chamber is that we serve as our communities’ Visitor Center. This gives us a responsibility to bring visitors and tourists into our community to visit our historical sites, engage in scheduled events, stay in our hotels, shop our stores and dine in our restaurants. Please visit Rockdale Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, 1203 W. Cameron Ave, Rockdale TX 76567. For more information, call 512-446-2030. You may also email: info@rockdalechamber.com Or visit our website: www.rockdalechamber.com or Facebook @ RockdaleCoC

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