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Beware! says FF Homeowner (Page 3-A)

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Independent News That Matters

Seventy-five cents

Vol. 14 No. 4

PUBLISHED IN THE FREESTONE COUNTY SEAT, FAIRFIELD, TEXAS

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Haz-Mat Spill

Blocks I-45 Monday morning

A hazardous material spill shut down the northbound lane of I-45 at mile marker 206 on Monday morning, January 26, 2015. According to Bob Colwell of TxDOT – Bryan District, both northbound lanes were closed, and traffic was detoured at FM 833 to State Highway 75.

According to DPS Trooper D.L. Wilson, at 11:00 p.m.

Sunday evening, January 25, 2015, a tractor tanker truck was northbound on I-45 when it drifted off the main lanes onto the shoulder and struck an unattended disabled pickup.

The tanker went out of control, jack knifed and rolled over into the east ditch.

The tank began leaking, and a hazmat team was dispatched. The Interstate was shutdown and no one allowed within a thousand feet, as the material was offloaded into another truck No injuries were reported.

The roadway was opened back up about 10:45 a.m. on Monday morning, January 26, 2015.

Only about 12 gallons of liquid toulene actually leaked out, according to DPS. (Toulene is a chemical that can be used as a solvent or as an additive for fuels. Its fumes can be explosive.)

DPS verbal report courtesy of KXXV – Channel 25.

Thirty Year Sentence: Accepting a 30-year sentence in exchange for pleaing guilty to the charge of continuous sexual assault of a child is Carlton Eugene Bratner (far left), who waits as court documents are prepared by (left-right) Janet Rogillio, County Attorney Chris Martin and Assitant DA Cari Heinen. Bratner was represented in court by Fairfield attorney George Robinson (far right).

(Photo by Megan Hempel)

Community Service Celebrated by Fairfield Chamber of Commerce

W

hether celebrating the service of individuals or remarking on the cooperation between local clubs, “Community” was the underlying theme for this year’s Awards Banquet, hosted by the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Roy Hill complimented the Chamber, and thanked Executive Administrator Brenda Shultz for the “remarkable job” she does.

“The Chamber makes people feel they are a part of the community,” he says.

An audience, 200 strong, rose to their feet as Freestone County Girls Scouts brought in the U.S. and Texas State flag.

The National Anthem was performed, with trumpet fanfare, by members of the Grand Band from Eagle Land.

Two guest speakers opened the evening’s event. Although their delivery differed, the theme of community remained the same.

Laid back and jovial, Pastor Robert Smith of River of Life Family Worship described his journey in becoming a part of the community. “We must work as a body,” he says. “When we do our part, something special begins to happen.”

Polished and sincere, Pastor Ken Pruitt of First

-Chamber BanquetPage 7-A

Man Takes Plea in Child Sexual Assault Case A

Freestone County family can rest easy now, following the sentencing of Carlton Eugene Brantner on Thursday, January 22, 2015.

Brantner was arrested on March 7, 2014 and charged with two counts of continuous sexual assault of a child and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

With his attorney George Robinson, Brantner

appeared before 87th District Court Judge Deborah Oakes Evans to accept a plea agreement.

In exchange for a guilty plea, District Attorney Chris Martin offered Brantner a sentence of thirty years in the state penitentiary and dismissal of the charge of aggravated assault.

Megan Hempel reporting.

Possible May Bond Elections B

All Smiles is Fairfield’s 2015 Citizen of the Year, Beth Ireland (left), retired Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3. Chamber Ambassador Brenda Isaacs (right) presents Ireland with her award. Ireland joins several community leaders and volunteers, who were honored during last week’s Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet.

See page 7 & 8-A for additional pictures.

(Photo by Mary McDonald)

ond proposals to raise money for maintenance, along with strategies for replenishing the account that pays for teacher’s salaries, were considered during a special session of the Fairfield Independent School Board meeting on January 20, 2015.

These had been introduced during a regular session earlier this month.

Superintendent Rick Edwards presented trustees with several Maintenance Rolling Bond options after consulting with the District’s financial advisor.

An $800,000 bond ($2.4 million) for four years would not increase the current I&S tax rate of around .06% and the rate would actually be reduced after two years.

A $1,000,000 bond for three years ($3 million) would also not raise the current I&S tax rate and would be amortized over four years.

A $1.5 million bond for 3 years was discussed, but not recommended by Edwards, as could raise the I&S tax rate, as well as create some I&S cash payment concerns.

One use for Maintenance Bond monies would be to update and keep the bus fleet new, according to Superintendent Edwards.

The board could elect a 3 or 6 year bus rotation cycle.

If new buses were purchased every three years, the District would realize approximately 70% of an old bus’s value; the amount on a 6 year rotation would be about 50%.

Calendar

Inside

“Crowns” The Gospel Musical

Four Sections Classifieds...........Pages 4 - 6-D Wedding Guide.........Section C Oil & Gas...................Page 2-D Obituaries..................Page 4-A Real Estate.................Page 5-D

Teague

Jan 29-7:30 pm / Jan 31-3pm THS Auditorium

Receipts, from the sale of the retired buses - as much as $750,000, would go back into the M&O fund.

That account pays teachers’ salaries and operating expenses and would help alleviate the anticipated shortfall from a reduction in state funds to the District.

The Board has also been discussing what action, if any, should be taken regarding the aging Junior High complex with the possibility of having a bond election to finance the work.

Superintendent Edwards indicated that the maximum amount of a bond election the District should attempt was $20,000,000, as advised by their financial advisor.

It was noted that the bonds to finance the Intermediate complex will be paid off in 2024.

The Board will have to make a decision at the February 10th meeting as to whether to have one, both, or no bond

-Bond ProposalsPage 3-A

-Viewpoints-

2-A

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Winston Churchill: A Man for All Times It is an old debating point: Do the times make the man, or does the man make the times? In the case of Winston Churchill, whose death 50 years ago Saturday the British are remembering with more than nostalgia, it is both.

The times in Churchill’s case were both World War I, in which he served as a battalion commander, and World War II, which he helped win for Britain and America. By the standard he set, all political leaders since -- with the possible exception of Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan -- are mere pygmies. Yet, even they pale in his shadow.

No one else can touch Churchill for his vision, leadership and most of all persistence. Like Babe Ruth who struck out a lot, but who also hit many home runs, Churchill “struck out” more than once, but his successes far outweigh and overwhelm his failures.

London Mayor Boris Johnson has written a wonderful book called “The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History.”

Not only did Churchill make history, he bent it to his will and still today embodies the classic definition of a leader.

He had many contemporary enemies and there are those in Britain who still believe

he was too full of himself and that many of his ideas were ill conceived. Yet, his achievements were so momentous those voices get little attention outside academic circles and left-wing media who have forgotten how to fight and win wars.

Churchill had a way with words that conveyed great truths and necessarily stirred the hearts of his countrymen.

Probably his best-known words were uttered after the RAF defended Britain from bombings by the German Luftwaffe: “Never in the field of human conflict has so much been owed by so many to so few.”

In 1942, following the Allied victory near the Egyptian coastal city of El Alamein, which marked a turning point in the Western desert campaign, Churchill said: “Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”

Churchill wrote, spoke and did things that endure. What modern politician can match his clarity of thought, writings and voracious reading? His 1946 “Iron Curtain” speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, foresaw the Cold War with the Soviet Union.

Of the man, Boris Johnson

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writes, “...you are acutely aware of being chained to a genius, and a genius of unbelievable energy and fecundity.”

Churchill, notes Johnson, “produces more published works than Shakespeare and Dickens combined, wins the Nobel Prize for literature, kills umpteen people in armed conflict on four continents, serves in every great office of state, including prime minister (twice), is indispensible to victory in two world wars and then posthumously sells his paintings for a million dollars.”

Churchill had a far less than ideal upbringing. His father, Randolph, mostly rejected him and gave him, not love, but criticism; his mother pushed him but was often preoccupied with a series of men not her husband; he was small and often the object of bullying, but he overcame it all through the force of his ego, strong will and persistence (“Never give in, never give in, never, never, never -- in nothing, great or small, large or petty -- never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense.

Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.”

I recall the TV coverage

Cal Thomas

TEA Party

Tea Leaves

of his 1965 state funeral.

Thousands lined London streets. Dockworkers lowered their cranes in tribute as his body was borne down the River Thames on a barge.

Churchill was more than a leader for his time. He was a man for all time; a man for all seasons, as Robert Bolt titled his play about Sir Thomas More.

Johnson concludes his book: “There has been no one remotely like him before or since.” The world is the worse for it.

(Cal Thomas’ latest book is “What Works: Common Sense Solutions for a Stronger America” is available in bookstores now. Readers may email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors@tribpub.com.) (c) 2015 Tribune Content Agency, LLC. ____________________

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Our January TEA Party meeting was opened with prayer

by Henry Horton and the pledges to the American and Texas flags.

Due to Ken Emanuelson not being able to attend, we had an open discussion on current issues, including possible Presidential candidates, what is happening in the Texas House, possibilities of the newly elected folks in Congress, etc. We had a good open debate!

The Freestone County TEA Party is looking forward to a successful year!

We welcome all and appreciate suggestions! Our next meeting will be Monday February 16. Please mark your calendars.

Phone volunteers are needed. God bless America!

Please check our web page for information. Speaker for February’s meeting will be posted when confirmed! freestonecountyteaparty.org

In My Opinion It’ll Never Be Time for Term Limits on Congress

By Lee H. Hamilton

It didn’t get much attention at the time, but the elections last November did more than give Republicans a majority in the U.S. Senate. Voters also added to the ranks of people on both sides of Capitol Hill who believe members of Congress should serve a limited number of terms.

Americans are frustrated with the federal government as a whole and with Congress in particular, and are searching for a simple solution. The notion that the bums could get thrown out automatically has great appeal.

I should say up front that you’re not going to hear a strong argument in favor of term limits from a guy who served 34 years in Congress. But I want to spell out the reasons for my bias, not because I think term limits are a burning issue in Washington — they’re not — but because I wish they were less of an issue for ordinary voters. Congress has a lot of problems right now, and term limits are a distraction from the truly hard work that needs to be done.

Term limits supporters believe that bringing in fresh thinking and new leaders on a regular basis will make Congress Internet download speeds up to 10mbps fo more representative. However, stripping voters of the right as $49.99 whom they’ve supported in the to re-elect a representative We can your existing HughesNet past does not make for aupgrade more democratic system— rather, less.

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Kicking members of Congress out of their seats just as they’re gaining the ability to legislate effectively and oversee the government responsibly is tantamount to demoting Congress to the status of a minor agency. Term limits are not the solution to the real dysfunction that besets Washington.

They reduce the choices of voters, shift power to the executive branch, and move representative democracy in the wrong direction.

Lee Hamilton is Director of the Center on Congress at Indiana University. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.

REPORT

Freestone County January 28, 2015 Sheriff’s Report .F C www

reestone

-Courthouse News-

ountyTimes.com

Freestone County

Sheriff’s Report

By Sheriff Don Anderson Deputy was dispatched to Fisherman’s Point to take a theft report. The complainant reported that his girlfriend had taken his tools.

Dew VFD and Butler VFD responded to a report of a barn that was on fire on FM 1848.

Deputy arrested one in Dew on a motion to adjudicate on an earlier charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Wortham P.D. was dispatched to N. Third on a report of a subject that left a store without paying for a bottle of whiskey.

Deputy and Trooper assisted a stranded motorist near the 186 mile marker on IH-45.

Teague Medic 2 transported a 10 year old boy to the E.R. that had run into a car on his bicycle.

Trooper and Wortham P.D. responded to a two vehicle crash near the 208 mile marker on IH-45.

Butler VFD assisted Fairfield Medic 8 with a subject that was conscious but non-responsive at a residence on CR 340. Fairfield Medic 8 transported the subject to the E.R. Game Warden was dispatched to a report of a deer in the roadway on FM 416 near the Winkler Store.

Deputy assisted Trooper on a DWI traffic stop on FM 1365.

One subject was booked into jail for DWI. Fairfield Medic 8 transported an offender from the Boyd Unit to the E.R. Wortham P.D. booked one into jail for DWI. Deputy was dispatched to an alarm call on CR 340. Deputy advised that it was a false alarm.

Trooper assisted Teague P.D. with a one-vehicle crash on Hwy 179 at FM 553.

Teague VFD and Teague P.D. responded to a general smoke alarm at the Teague High

-Bond Proposals-

Continued from 1-A elections in May. After closed session, Superintendent Edwards’ contract was renewed for one year.

Mary McDonald reporting. _____________________

Don Anderson

School. Teague P.D. advised that they did not see any smoke Don Anderson or fire at the school.

Streetman VFD, Fairfield VFD and Southern Oaks VFD responded to grass fire that was getting into the trees on CR 141.

Deputy and Game Warden responded to a trespassing complaint on CR 661. The caller stated that the property had been divided up legally and now someone is plowing up her part.

Deputy and Trooper assisted Fairfield P.D. at the Fairfield JR High School on a complaint of two teams that were getting out of hand.

Teague VFD assisted Fairfield Medic 6 with a resident that had fallen on CR 890.

Teague VFD and Kirvin VFD responded to a report of a bon fire that had gotten out of control on CR 978.

Fairfield Medic 6 transported a 50 year old female to the E.R. that was having difficulty breathing.

Deputy was dispatched to CR 1171 on a caller’s complaint that embers from a neighbors trash fire were blowing into her yard. The neighbor agreed to put out the fire.

Deputy was dispatched to assist Teague P.D. with a prowler report on South Street.

Dew VFD responded to a fire alarm at the Dew School.

Fairfield Medic 6 transported a 76 year old female to the E.R. that had fallen and injured her head.

Teague VFD and Kirvin VFD responded to a grass fire on CR 901.

Deputy was dispatched to a civil stand-by on a child custody exchange on CR 851.

Fairfield VFD responded to a report of a fire in a pasture on FM 1580.

Trooper, Dew VFD and Fairfield Medic 6 responded to a onevehicle roll over near the 183 mile marker of IH-45.

Deputy and Fairfield Medic 6 were dispatched to CR 417 to check on a resident that was having mental issues.

Dew VFD responded to a report of a fire in a field that was located southwest of Dew. Dew VFD advised that the fire was a controlled burn.

Deputy was dispatched to a domestic dispute on CR

360. One party departed with another relative.

Deputy was dispatched to a report of loose livestock near the 210 mile marker of IH-45.

The owner arrived to put up the animals.

Fairfield Medic 6 transported a 74 year old male with an altered mental state to the E.R. Trooper was dispatched to a report of a vehicle that had struck an animal at the 189 exit in Dew. The caller reported that the animal looked like a coyote or bobcat.

Deputy and Fairfield VFD were dispatched to a grass fire between the 196 and 197 mile marker of IH-45.

Deputy and Trooper were dispatched to a report of a vehicle that had struck a tree on Hwy 84 E. near Butler.

Deputy was dispatched to the Southern Oaks area on a report that someone had stolen money from the caller’s vehicle.

Deputy and Trooper responded to a report of a vehicle that had struck a power pole on FM 488 near CR 232.

Deputy and Fairfield P.D. were dispatched to meet a complainant at a local business in reference to a theft. The complainant stated that he had lost a large sum of money in the parking lot. The complaint advised that he had gotten the license plate number of the people that had picked up his money in the parking lot.

Wortham VFD was dispatched to assist with a grass fire on LCR 209.

Deputy took a burglary report at a travel trailer in the Southern Oaks area.

Deputy and Teague P.D. responded to a hold up alarm at a business in Teague.

Deputy advised that one of the employees had accidently set off the alarm.

Deputy was dispatched to FM 416 on a report of pets that may have been abandoned by renters. The owner of the animals advised that the animals had not been abandoned and would be picked up later that evening.

Deputies were dispatched to a domestic disturbance in the Lakewood area. One subject was arrested and booked into jail on an assault/family violence charge.

Deputy was dispatched to vehicle burglary in the Kingswood Addition. The caller stated that her purse had been stolen from her vehicle during the night.

The purse was located in a vacant lot with all of its contents intact.

Teague P.D. booked one into jail for DWI. Deputy responded to a report of an 18-wheeler that was dragging something that was

‘Beware!’ says Fairfield Homeowner

Unscrupulous people have found a new way to gain entrance into one’s home and take their things, as happened to an individual in Fairfield, Texas recently.

The victim has chosen to remain anonymous but gave a statement to the Freestone County Times to warn others of this scam.

It was very cold Friday afternoon, January 16th, when a young and attractive woman, described by the victim as Hispanic, knocked on the door of a Fairfield resident and identified herself as being with the electric company.

However, the homeowner told her she did not know anything about why she was at her house.

“Didn’t the electric company tell you I was coming out?” she responded.

The young woman told the Let us too Pamper landowner it was late to FOR FOR call the electric company (after Your Pooch 5:00 p.m.), but convinced her BUSINESS BUSINESS to walk into the backyard to survey where a pole should be placed.

The owner said that woman was very chatty, speaking of how small flags needed to be put in certain areas, but she did not have them with her.

Several times, the woman would get on her cell phone,

FOR USINESS

speaking Spanish.

“I feel like she was talking about me, but how did she know I could not speak Spanish?” the homeowner wondered.

While they were in the back yard, it is believed that someone entered the house and stole a lot of valuables, including some priceless Let us Pamper heirlooms.

The theft was not discovered Your Pooch until around midnight, at which time the police were called out.

Fairfield Chief of Police Kenny Bulger said they are still determining the value of the merchandize taken, and the investigation is ongoing.

He confirmed that the woman was definitely not with the

electric company.

“Be careful. Keep your doors locked,” the homeowner warns.

She is left to wonder many things, like how did know they where her things were kept and how were they able to get in and out so quickly?

Mary McDonald reporting. ____________________

causing sparks. Deputy advised the problem was corrected.

Deputies were dispatched to a report of an 18-wheeler that was jack knifed and blocking the roadway on Hwy 84 near CR 521.

Teague Medic 2 was dispatched to the Kilgore Trailer Park to check on a 1 year old that was believed to have ingested roach powder.

Deputy was dispatched to civil dispute on CR 237. The caller advised that friend would not return a vehicle that had been loaned to him.

Teague Medic 2 transported an 89 year old male to the E.R. that was experiencing shortness of breath.

Deputies located vehicle at the church in Kirvin that had been reported to have been stolen out of Mexia.

Donie VFD, Teague VFD and Dew VFD were dispatched to a report of a grass fire off FM 80 just south of Donie.

Fairfield Medic 6 transported a 34 year old female to the E.R. was having trouble breathing.

Trooper assisted a stranded motorist near the 210 mile marker of IH-45.

Wortham P.D. was dispatched to Avenue D. to meet with a resident about a dog that may have been shot. The caller stated that there was a dog in her yard that was wining. The caller advised that she heard a gunshot when she stepped back into her house.

Deputy and Fairfield VFD responded to a report of a grass fire in the ditch on Hwy 75 S. Deputy took a trailer theft report on CR 404.

Deputy booked one in from court on the charge of continuous sexual abuse of a young child.

Wortham P.D. was dispatched to a domestic dispute on E. Brazos. Wortham advised that no assault had occurred.

Deputy booked one into jail on an outstanding warrant for theft by check.

Deputy, Trooper, Fairfield VFD and Fairfield Medic 6 responded to a one vehicle roll over on IH45 near mile marker 205.

Deputy was sent to Hwy 84 E. to be on the lookout for a 91 year old male that had bought a used car in Palestine. After purchasing the car, the subject had driven away leaving his wife at the dealership. The subject was later located in Conroe, Texas.

Teague P.D. booked one into jail for driving while license invalid.

Deputies assisted Fairfield P.D. on a report of subjects that were fighting at the Pizza Hut. One subject was jailed.

Teague Medic 2 was dispatched to a residence on Main Street to transport a subject to the E.R. that was having a seizure.

TXDOT notified that the West Service Road was flooded near Dew. Deputy, Trooper, Fairfield VFD and Fairfield Medic 8 responded to a report of a car that had come to rest on its side after rolling near the 208 mile marker of IH-45.

Deputy gave a courtesy yard to stranded motorist on Hwy 84.

Deputy dispatched to a prowler call on CR 941.

Jail Population – 44 And so it goes… _______________________

“No Job Too Big Or Too Small”

Residential •is Open Commercial for Business Insured for Your Protection Family Owned

3-A

Fairfield Police Report By: Chief of Police Kenny Bulger Monday, Jan. 19th 12:25 PM-Officer Lawrence to PD to speak to subject about property that he had dropped at store, property located and returned to owner.

2:49 PM-Officer Tharp on civil stand by.

7:58 PM-Officer Gallegos assist deputy on domestic.

Tuesday, Jan. 20th 3:07 AM-Officer Gallegos on alarm going off.

8:30 AM-Officer Lawrence to PD to meet a complainant.

2:23 PM-Officer Tharp on minor wreck in parking lot.

Wednesday, Jan. 21st 1:41 PM-Officer Palacios on loud music complainant.

5:06 PM-Officer Palacios and Weinmann on report of subjects fighting, one subject arrested.

6:25 PM-Officer Hartley on alarm call.

Thursday, Jan. 22nd 6:41 AM-Officer Weinmann on reported 911 hang up, ended up being phone trouble.

7:44 AM-Officer Palacios on alarm going off.

9:37 AM-Officer Palacios on report of missing property.

11:30 AM-Officer Weinmann on report of possible wreck, ended up car had just ran off roadway.

2:28 PM-Officer Palacios on alarm going off.

5:29 PM-Officer Palacios on report of customer at store causing problems, customer was asked to leave.

8:12 PM-Officer Hartley on

report of reckless driver.

9:41 PM-Officer Hartley on alarm going off.

10:47 PM-Officer Hartley on report of disturbance, subjects gone on arrival.

Friday, Jan 23rd 7:50 AM-Officer Tharp on alarm going off.

10:08 AM-Officer Tharp on disturbance, one subject asked to leave.

4:20 PM-Officer Tharp to speak to a complainant.

6:20 PM-Officer Gallegos on 911 call from residence, was phone problems.

Saturday, Jan. 24th 2:00 AM-Officer Markham on report of suspicious kids, were broke down, gave ride to.

2:35 PM-Officer Tharp on report of disturbance at game.

7:13 PM-Officer Markham on suspicious vehicle.

8:48 PM-Officer Gallegos on report of subject coming into store acting strange, was unable to locate.

9:10 PM-Officer Gallegos on report of gas smell, Gas company was called.

11:20 PM-Officer Gallegos and Markham on report of subject fighting, area checked and was unable to locate.

Sunday, Jan. 25th 12:32 PM-Officer Tharp on alarm going off.

11:59 PM-Officer Gallegos and Markham on report of disturbance at residence, one subject arrested for warrant. ______________________

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Obituaries Neal Combee

Wilma Berry Neal Combee, 70, of Fairfield, passed away Monday, January 19, 2015 at his residence.

Memorial services were held 1:00 P.M. Saturday, January 24, 2015 at the Dew United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Neal was born January 10, 1945 in Auburndale, Florida to parents Marcus and Dorothy Bass Combee. He had been a Fairfield resident for three years moving from Lake City, Florida. He was employed in metal building construction. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Martha Cheshire.

Left to cherish is memory are five children, Penny Hicks and husband Wayne of Greenville, TN; Charlotte Arman and husband Bryan of Fairfield; Kelli Glover of Winter Haven, FL; Chad Combee of Gainesville, FL; Taylor Combee of Gainesville, FL; one brother, Irvin Fillman of Auburndale, FL; one sister, Ruby Ware of Lake City, FL; nine grandchildren, Larry Pillow and wife Heather; Marcus Pillow and wife Lanett; Priscilla Zwierzchowski and husband Justin; Bradley Brown, Jamie Brown, Kristina Brown, Gabrielle Chavez; Shelby Hicks; Matthew Hicks and wife Aja; three great-grandchildren, Riley Zwierzchowski, Braidyn Brown; Caleb Brown; and one on the way, Olivia Rayanne Pillow.

To view an online obituary, send a personalized sympathy card, or leave the family a personal tribute, please visit our website at www. cappschapel.com _____________________

Wilma Berry, 99, a lifelong resident of Streetman, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2015 in Fairfield. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2015 at Cade Cemetery near Streetman with Rev. Clayton Smith officiating.

Mrs. Berry was born August 24, 1915 in Freestone County to parents Marion Jack and Nora Etta Anderson Jenkins.

For a number of years Mrs. Berry served as Grand Marshall of the Streetman Fourth of July Lawnmower Parade. She also worked for a number years as hostess/cashier at the Country Smokehouse in Streetman. She was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Streetman.

Wilma was a strong, amazing woman who loved life. She was very special to her family.

She will be greatly missed.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Frederick Monroe Berry in 1967, three brothers, two sisters and a granddaughter.

Left to cherish her memory is three children, A. D. (Butch) James and wife Marvie of Fairfield; Dorothy Whalen of Streetman; Johnny James and wife Mary Lou of Scurry, TX; five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.

To view an online obituary, send a personalized sympathy card, or leave the family a personal tribute, please visit our website at www. cappschapel.com _____________________

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The National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Chapter 1191 held its monthly meeting at the Asian King Buffet in Waxahachie on Tuesday, 13 January 2014. Bob Mc Guire, with the Senior Medicare Patrol Program (SMP), accompanied

by Jeannie Garrett, spoke to NARFE members about healthcare fraud and prevention. The SMP is a program funded in part by the U. S. Administation on Aging and operated by the Better Business Bureau Education Foundation of Greater Houston. The program was expanded to cover the entire state of Texas in 2008.

Recommendations included protecting the Medicare card and number, reviewing the Medicare Summary Notice in a timely manner, and reporting mistakes or asking questions of the medical provider or health plan as soon as possible. Maintaining good medical records to verify charges is very important. Also covered were fraudulent attempts over the phone to obtain credit card and banking info; Medicare or Social Security numbers, including attempts to verify information; and pressure tactics to make a quick decision on limited time offers. If any of the above occurs, and questions still remain after contacting the medical provider or health plan, contact may be made with the SMP at 713-341-6184 or 1-888-341-6187. Also check www.texassmp. org Protect, detect and report are keys to prevention.

Other sources of help provided were: Medicare - 1-800633-4227 or www.medicare.gov; Area Agency on Aging - 1-800-252-9240 for help with benefits; Federal Trade Commission - 1-877-438-4338 or www.ftc.gov for identity theft information; free annual credit report - 1-877-322-

Consumer Alert:

Consumers Warned of Timeshare Fraud The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) warns owners of timeshare vacation properties of a fraud scheme involving unlicensed title insurance companies.

Consumers should always make sure they are dealing with properly licensed title companies and can contact TDI’s Consumer Help Line at 1-800-252-3439 for assistance.

Timeshare fraud typically begins when a person contacts timeshare owners and either says they are representing a buyer or offers to help them sell their properties. The person sends the owner to work with a specific title company, but the company doesn’t exist.

The company address, phone number, and website are legitimate-looking but are all fake. Finally, the person asks the owner to send money to an account in Mexico and then disappears without providing any services.

“These fraudulent schemes typically involve a company that has gone by several different

names, but none are licensed

by TDI,” said Commissioner David Mattax. “Timeshare fraud is a serious crime, which can cost consumers thousands of dollars.”

TDI urges consumers to follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim of timeshare fraud: --Make sure any title company you work with is licensed or registered to sell title insurance in Texas by calling the TDI Consumer Help Line at 1-800252-3439.

--Know the company’s exact name. Unlicensed companies

often use names that are similar to the names of licensed companies.

--Verify that the title insurance company you’re using has a physical office with a real address and a working phone number. If possible, visit the office in person.

--Ask the buyer’s representative to send you details in writing about the services offered.

--Ask questions about expenses you are asked to pay up front. Seek a second opinion if the explanation is suspicious. If you are asked

to transfer funds to Mexico, contact the taxing authority in Mexico or an attorney to advise you.

--Ask questions and take notes if there’s anything you don’t understand. The title insurance company shouldn’t hesitate to answer your questions.

For answers to general insurance questions, for information about filing an insurance-related complaint, or to report suspected insurance fraud, call the Consumer Help Line at 1-800252-3439 or visit our website at www.tdi.texas.gov.

You may also file complaints against businesses with the Texas Attorney General at www.texasattorneygeneral. gov. ______________________

Texas Launches Toll-Free Number to Help with Long-Term Care The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) is launching a toll-free number to help qualifying Texans connect with long-term care services.

The telephone number is 1-855937-2372. It has been set up to

THE GENERAL LEDGER Carol Bradley

-ENROLLED AGENTA trusted name for over 70 years

8228 or www.annualcreditreport.com; Legal Hotline for Older Texans - 1-800-622-2520; Texas Dept. of Insurance - 1-800578-4677 for ratings and complaints on insurance companies; and Securities and Exchange Commission - 1-800-732-0330 or www.sec.gov for a “Senior Care” package.

NARFE Chap. 1191 covers Ellis, Navarro and adjacent parts of the surrounding counties. Membership in NARFE is open to all active and retired federal employees and their spouses, former federal employees, and former spouses who are entitled to a federal survivor annuity. For more information, please call Midlothian at 972-268-5793 or 972-775-2463, Waxahachie 469-939-8102, Ennis - 214-949-6197, Red Oak - 412-722-6307, or Corsicana - 903-874-3092. Or, you may go to www.narfe. org or http://www.dfwnarfe.net/Chapter1191/ChapterPage. html or see NARFE Chapter 1191 on Facebook.

Representing Tax Payers before the IRS 424 W. Commerce • Fairfield • 903-389-4027 311 Main St. • Teague • 254-739-2557

help older adults (60 and up) who currently receive Medicaid and/or Medicare, people of all ages with disabilities, and caregivers.

The growing population of aging Texans, in addition to the approximately four in 10 Texans who have some type of disability, has created demand for the new number. According to the 2010 census, Texas has the third largest aging population (65 and older) in the United States.

More than 3 million Texans are over the age of 65, and that number is expected to more than double to 7.5 million by 2040.

The new number streamlines the process for those seeking information about long-term care services, which include personal care, nursing care, help around the house, and help for caregivers.

“Texans who take advantage of the new number will speak with a trained professional who can help identify their needs and put them

in touch with service providers in their area,” said Jon Weizenbaum, DADS commissioner. “We think this approach will help Texans receive the services they are eligible for much more efficiently.”

When Texans call the number, they will be routed to a representative at the nearest Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) based on the ZIP code they enter. ADRCs provide information and help connect individuals to state and federal benefits. They are linked to hundreds of service providers statewide and can help Texans enroll for services if requested.

ADRC representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and this service is free.

Additionally, the new number will help existing Medicare/ Medicaid recipients ensure they are receiving all the long-term care services they are eligible for.

-Fellowship-

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

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5-A

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Fairfield Christian Center Sunday Services Sunday School - 9:45 a.m.

Morning Worship - 10:45 a.m.

Evening Worship - 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Services Youth Group - 7:00 p.m.

Adult Bible Study - 7:00 p.m.

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“God has been good,

Drive One it has been great; but the best is yet to come,” Sr. Pastor Robert Smith, says as he outlines Fairfield’s River of Life Family Worship Center’s Big Vision for 2015. Pastor Robert says the Church and the Food Come By and See Our Friendly Sales Pantry are both experiencing growing pains.

“Where We Still Out Perform The Competition” Staff for a Great No Pressure Deal!

“That’s a good thing, but it is something we have to deal with,” he explains.

We Proudly Sell & Service In recent months, they have torn out the wall between the foyer and the sanctuary to allow for more a Full Line of chairs to hold an enlarging congregation.

They plan an extensive remodel of the entire building in 2015.

Trucks, Cars & SUV’s.

Perhaps more critical, is the River of Life’s Food Pantry.

HOME • AUTO •1201 BOAT RV • Texas MOTORCY West Hwy. •84•Fairfield, With 1,000 people to feed, the shelves are empty within two weeks after stocking it.

903.389.4186 • 800.254-4186 The Food Panty has to turn away needed donations by the truck load because there is no room to stock www.AllStarFord.com INSURANCE the products, according to Pastor Robert.

River of Life has plans to build a new, state of the art, Food Panty warehouse on the James Barrentinewith a large Eric Harwell Sam Judd Garlan Steed Church property on Highway 84.

In addition to food items, they will be able to house such things as appliances and will have a full clothing ministry.

In order to do this, they are selling the building on Commerce Street where the Food Panty is located.

INSURANCE This property is also home of Global Hearts International and Family SERVICES Dollar.

Mark E. Chavers “When the building is sold, the contract will contain a clause that the & Staff new owner will honor the two year contacts of Global Hearts and Family For all your insurance needs ...

“The way a command is Dollar, so their operations will not be impacted by the sale,” Pastor Robert to protect the ones you love. given affects the way the explains. movement of the unit is The Big Vision also includes a lot of events in 2015: 218 S. Hall Street •Fairfield, TX executed,” is the opening -- A Valentines Banquet is scheduled for February 15th. sentence in The Drill Pad. www.eagleinsservices.com -- There will be a Men’s Conference April 17th – 19th.

The importance of giving a -- Beginning the Sunday after Easter, the church will have both a 9:00 proper military command is further described in The a.m. and 11:00 a.m. service.

P.O. Box 307 Army Study Guide: “A --The church is planning a four year anniversary for the Senior Pastors, Fairfield, TX 75840 c o r r e c t l y dPhone: e l i v903-389-2238 ered Robert and Lissa Smith. command wFax: i l 903-389-4335 l be -- Hell House will be back this year – location to be revealed later in un d e rs t o o d b y the year. everyone...and demands will i n g , c o rr e c t a n d -- A Citywide BBQ will take place in October. immediate response.”

-- Galaxy Day Care is in full swing with 38 kids attending.

One wonders if the writers -- Perhaps the biggest news is that River of Life will open its doors to quoted above read what The You Need...The Cu 118Insurance West Commerce have Spanish services.

David wrote in Psalm 29: Fairfield, Texas 75840 “We plan to have it up and running before the end of the year,” Pastor LIFE“The • HEALTH AUTO • COMMERCIAL • LONG TERM voice of the •Lord is .

Reggie & Monica Davis Robert reveals. powerful...and...majestic!”

903.389.6206 Throughout this Psalm the --The Live Nativity on the Courthouse square (pictured above) was a big "Behold, I make all things new." results of “the voice of the hit. Plans have not been solidified yet, but they are hoping to have an Rev. 21:5 Lord” are staggering. That event of giant propositions for Easter. Look for details in “The Times.” phase - “the voice” - occurs “I would like to thank the City of Fairfield/Mayor Roy Hill, Fairfield Chamber seven times in this Psalm of Commerce/Brenda Schultz, and Freestone County Commissioners and coincides with the Court/Judge Linda Grant for allowing us to put on the Live Nativity on number of times that the same phrase appears in the square.” Pastor Robert expresses.

Genesis 1. Both passages “Pastor Ken Pruitt and the First Baptist Church provided the Worship of Scripture express one Team for both programs,” he continues. theme: “The glory, power “God was in it all the way. Mayor Roy Hill had asked us to move our and majesty of our God rest Live Nativity to the Courthouse, but the Chamber and the County had to upon all of His creation.”

Family Owned Since 1946be seen His might can approve it, as well. If any [of the entities] had refused, it would not have everywhere: the skies, the taken place, but everyone wanted it,” Pastor Robert reveals.

Family Managed seas, on land, in the Photo courtesy of Denise McAdams. wilderness; in the mighty 450 E. Main in Fairfield Mary McDonald reporting. mountain ranges, the (903) 389-9217 ________________________________________________ terrible results from bolts of

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Community Calendar AARP’s TaxAide’s Free Income Tax Service every Thursday, Feb 5 to April 9th 9am to 2pm First United Methodist Church 201 North Mount St, Fairfield, Texas Freestone Cancer Support Group 1st Tuesdays – 5:30 p.m.

Conference Center 24 Texas Hours a Day Fairfield,

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Website · –(254) Fellowship Hall – 1st UMC 3843 Fairfield, Texas 205 N McKinney St · Include your organization by calling Mexia · 903-389-NEWS (6397) or email information to news@freestonecountytimes.com

lightening when they strike the earth. His power is seen when animals give birth to their young. He can even be seen in the desert regions! The glory of God is revealed wherever man looks!

Some may refuse to hear His voice or have no desire to respect the power in that voice. Those of us who do, however, are blest. Yet, we are left with two nagging questions: Why have we been chosen to see the power and majesty of God while others cannot see Him? And then, what is our obligation to God and to them?

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-Community-

Hats Off!

to ‘Crowns’ Thursday and Saturday Crowns, the Gospel Musical, debuts at the Theatre at Teague High School Thursday, January 29, at 7:30 pm and Saturday, January 31, at 3:00 pm. A collection of stunning hats from the collections of Irene Slaughter and Lois Gatson will be on view in the lobby preceding the performance.

Freda Payne, multi-talented vocalist and actress, and the gifted area cast members will present their “crowning achievement” for Trinity Star Arts Council (TSAC) audiences.

Much goes into a community theater production of this caliber. Preparation by cast and musicians is a given, but the crew including props, lighting, and sound make any production go from ordinary to exceptional. Promotion and advertising are also essential prerequisites for the event.

Tickets are $10 and available at the door, online at www.trinitystararscouncil.org for pick up at Will Call, Armadillo Emporium in Fairfield, and The Teague Chronicle in Teague.

TSAC is a non- profit organization whose members provide enrichment of the arts in musical performances, author visits, art shows, school programing, and culinary events throughout the year. No salaries are paid; no office is maintained.

Arts programing ticket pricing is kept to a minimum. TSAC depends on the support of patrons and businesses through annual membership, corporate sponsors, established trusts, donations, and volunteerism. Just like public television, TSAC depends on YOU for quality programs in this area. TSAC meets a need for the arts in this area, an opportunity that has previously been unavailable. TSAC brings the arts to you; it is public art, entertainment, and enrichment. Audiences and patrons approve the efforts of TSAC through financial support, attendance, and volunteering. Without this support, TSAC cannot function.

Enjoy the arts - TSAC presents Crowns! ________________________________

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Fairfield Library Stays Put Renovation Plans in the Works Have you noticed that the “Future Home of the Fairfield Library” sign, on Highway 75, has disappeared?

Recently, the Fairfield Library Board decided to keep the Library where it is, instead of building a new facility, as had been planned.

Original owner of the property, Warren Davis, purchased it back for the amount he had sold it to them, several years ago.

There had been a clause in the bill of sale that stipulated Mr. Davis would have first choice to purchase the land, should the Board decide not to build a new library.

Interestingly enough, according to Library Director, John Stevens, the need for square footage has been reduced over what it was ten years ago, making the current size of the building, 5,300 square feet, right for their needs.

Stevens says that the

introduction of the Internet is responsible for the reduction of space required.

For example, the many shelves of Encyclopedias have become obsolete. Patrons go to the World Wide Web to obtain the same information they once searched for from those volumes of books.

“We will never purchase any of those beautiful books that currently line the shelves.”

Stevens says.

Bookkeeping for the library, book checked out information, and book inventory no longer requires file cabinets, as these are kept on the computer.

Keeping up with statistics about the library is now done via computer.

Stevens said that even the IRS forms were not delivered to the library this year. He is not sure why and is checking into it, but believes it is because all IRS forms can be retrieved through the

Internet.

The Library has hired an architect to determine what renovations will be required to update the Library.

Stevens anticipated making a dedicated area for the computers used by patrons.

“Rolling shelves” are being considered that will reduce shelf space. eBooks are being introduced, with classes to be taught on how to access and use the new check our check out process.

Look for more information about eBooks in a February edition of the Freestone County Times.

Fairfield Library Board members are: Tommy Miller – President, John Fryer – Vice President, Gina Robinson – Treasurer, Ralph Billings – Secretary, Gary Wiggins, Scott Mills, Lee Earl Johnson, Christine Manning, and Lyle Red. Mary McDonald reporting.

New Appointments and Old Trees Discussed by Fairfield City Council New board appointments and old trees were up for discussion during the Fairfield City Council’s January 13th meeting.

Fairfield Industrial Development Corporation (FIDC) will welcome two new members to its board of directors. City Councilmen approved the appointment of Mary Small and Jason Hullum to replace outgoing members Justin Turner and Mark Chavers.

Small and Hullum will begin their three year terms alongside current board members George Robinson, chairman; Will Hallmark, vice chairman; Andy Awalt, secretary/treasurer; Warren Davis, John Alford, and FIDC president Brent Ballard.

New Emergency Management Coordinator James Minze presented the 2015 Freestone County Mitigation Action Plan to councilmembers for approval.

Emergency mitigation plans outline procedures for managing events like fire, natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, etc., and other emergency situations.

Minze explained that the plan is implemented countywide by

each cities’ governing body and requires yearly review and updates.

City Manager Jeff Looney led discussion regarding clearing of land east of the Fairfield City Park playground, located between the park and Navarro College campus. He shared that Shane Thornton of 3T Brush Control has submitted a bid for $4,700.

Councilman Randy Johnson questioned the method of brush and tree removal, voicing concern for the salvageable foliage and young dogwoods.

Mr. Looney assured the council that desirable trees and shrubbery will be marked to insure their safety and special care will be taken to preserve and maintain the natural landscape. City workers will be on hand to supervise work and handle cleanup.

Also mentioned was the intended use of the land after it has been cleared.

Looney answered that, once the brush and dead trees are cleared, the City will be able to better assess the possibilities and consider appropriate projects.

Councilmen approved a request from Szurgot & Peede on behalf of homebuilder

Clyde E. McKelvey to replat lots 19 & 18-A, located at 199 Talford Street, combining them into one lot to be identified as 19-R. Discussion was held regarding the installation of awnings at the Civic Center.

The proposed awning would be placed above the large front doors of the center. This awning would be wide enough for two cars and include an extended concrete drive and walkway for more convenient entry into the building. Three smaller, flat roofed awnings are expected for the remaining doors.

Previous bids on this project were estimated between $4,000 and $6,000. The City currently has $27,000 budgeted, but chose to table the item until next month’s meeting to allow time for drafts to be completed.

Companies interested in bidding on the project will be invited to the February 11, 2015 meeting.

In other business, the council accepted the minutes from the December 9, 2014 meeting, and approved the bill register and quarterly finance report for the month.

Megan Hempel reporting ____________________

Long Awaited Improvements in Works for City of Teague, Texas Teague will start the New Year off right with several long-awaited improvements in the works, following a productive meeting of the City Council Tuesday, January 20, 2015.

Aldermen voted to grant Mayor Earnest Pack the authority to apply for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in the amount of $345,000 for the upcoming year.

Shawna McElfish of Traylor & Associates of Tyler, Texas, the firm assisting the City with the grant application and submittal process, outlined the projects to be funded by the grant.

McElfish explained that, with approval of the City’s application and a financial match of $45,000, the grant money will be used to rehabilitate Water Well #1, as well as the water lines on Washington Street, and update the SCADA system at the water treatment plant.

The new Highway 84 Sewer and Water Project is well on its way as Aldermen voted to approve the lowest bid, received from Pittard Construction Company in the amount of $699,832.

In addition to this, Aldermen accepted a contract change order which reduces the

construction company’s bid by $148,544. This amount is an approximation of money that could be saved by permitting City employees to complete some of the work.

Also passed was a budget amendment appropriating another $150,000 for the new Highway 84 Water and Sewer Project, bringing the total to $706,000.

Mayor Pack clarified that, although the original budget for the project was set at $546,000, the submitted bids ranged from $699,832 to $1,120,210, demonstrating the need for supplementary funds. He shared that any money not utilized for the project will be returned to the City’s fund balance account.

In other business, Aldermen chose to change the date of the regular Council meetings to the third Monday of each month beginning February 16, 2015.

The Freestone County Mitigation Action Plan was accepted as presented by James Minze, Emergency Management Coordinator.

Following executive session it was announced that Robert Garcia and Steven Posey would be hired in the Public Works Department. James Hastings was hired as a Police Officer.

Megan Hempel reporting.

Let our advertisers know that advertising works. Tell our advertisers that you saw them in The “Times”

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

-Community-

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FISD Teachers, Student of the Year -Chamber BanquetContinued from 1-A

Baptist Church expressed the importance of embracing our diversity as individuals, as we practice the spirit of community. “I am honored to be a part of this community,” he says.

During the awards presentations, Fairfield Superintendent Rick Edwards thank everyone for making him and his wife feel so welcomed. “It is amazing how this community works together,” he remarks.

Before announcing the Teachers of the Year, Edwards spoke of how Fairfield ISD teachers always talked about what they can do to improve the lives of their students.

Those honored this year include: --Mikki Riffenberg – Elementary School --Shetonia Scires – Intermediate School

High Teacher of the Year, Susan Walsh, is presented a plaque by Fairfield ISD Superintendent Rick Edwards during the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet on Thursday, January 22, 2015.

Shetonia Scires is Fairfield Intermediate Teacher of the Year.

Elementary Teacher of the Year is Mikki Riffenberg.

-Chamber AwardsPage 8-A

FHS Student of the Year is Caitlynn Stone, the daughter of Cheryl and Steve Stone.

(Photos by Mary McDonald)

Darla Matthews is Fairfield Junior High Teacher of the Year.

FISD Teacher of the Year is Donna Housewright.

AT 10:30AM

Fairfield

8-A -Chamber Awards-

-Community-

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Continued from 7-A

--Darla Matthews – Junior High School --Susan Walsh – High School --Donna Housewright – Fairfield ISD Student of the Year is FHS Senior, Caitlynn Stone, daughter of Cheryl and Steve Stone. Her list of achievements were lengthy, including participation in nearly every sport offered, officer positions in several organizations and a heavy course load of honor classes. Caitlynn is expected to earn the distinction of Valedictorian this year.

Service to the community continued to be celebrated with presentations of the Chamber awards.

Lauded for 28 years service to Freestone County is Citizen of the Year, former Justice of the Peace – Pct. 3 Beth Ireland.

Praised for raising more than $45,000 to be used for local cancer survivors is Civic Organization of the Year, Freestone Cancer Support Group.

Commended for their continued support of local organizations and charities, as well as their 30-year commitment for providing $1 million in scholarships to FHS graduates is Business of the Year, Community National Bank & Trust.

Applauded for their sponsorship of youth and school organizations is Small Business of the Year, Hometown Pharmacy.

Following the awards, a lively cake auction was orchestrated

by Ralph Billings. Eighteen cakes went out for bid, bringing in over $3,000. The biggest item, a chocolate layered affair, decorated with a yellow rose in frosting, sold for $310.

According to Brenda Shultz, proceeds go to pay for the banquet, and anything left over goes toward the fireworks display in July. (Fairfield Chamber is responsible for $4,000 while the City pays $10,000 for the Fourth of July event.)

“We had a really, really good response,” says Brenda Shultz.

Civic Organization of the Year are the members of Freestone Cancer Support Group. Their contribution to the Fairfield community was recognized during last week’s Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. Cancer survivor, Betsy Monico, presented the award. (Photos by Mary McDonald)

“I appreciate everybody’s participation this year.”

Cakes were donated by Accessories, Etc., Bayless NAPA Auto Supply, Capps Memorial Chapel, Community National Bank, Eagle Insurance, Freestone County Support Group, Armadillo Emporium / Juls by Jul, Kennedy’s Korner, Morrison Lawn Care, Oncor, RJT Rentals, Rollo Insurance Agent – Tony Adkins, Safety Logistics, SEC Energy, The Berry Patch, Edward Jones and Cristina Sandifer.

Door Prizes were contributed by Adrenaline Fitness, AdvoCare Independent Distributor – Ashley DeVillier, Creations Flowers & Gifts, ItWorks! – Amber Svoboda, L&M Trophies, Origami Owl Independent Designer – Gina Martin, P31 Fitness, Scentsy – Angie Vondra, Texas Outfitters and Thrive Promoter – Jason Schick.

The 2015 Chamber Awards Banquet Sponsors were Community National Bank & Trust, Luminant Power, CETA, Adrenaline Fitness and Bear Paw Custom Embroidery.

Fairfield Chamber of Commerce 2015 Officers, and staff, include President Pam Chavers, VicePresident Jason Hullum, Second Vice-President Mo Adams, Treasurer Josh Bayless, Administrative Assistant Brittany Gillian and Executive Administrator Brenda Shultz.

2015 Directors include Julee Emmons, Piper Morrison and Tony Adkins.

2015 Ambassadors are Amy Freeman, Amy Ralstin, Bettye Trask, Brenda Isaacs, Cristina Sandifer, Diana Lewis, Gail Farish, Gary Trammell, Gene Chavers, Jennifer Chavers, Landis Bayless, Mary Small, Michelle Adams, Mile Svoboda, Sharon Fox and Tina Williams.

Small Business of the Year is presented to Vance Ogelsbee Karen Leidy reporting. (left) and his wife, Angela, of Hometown Pharmacy. Fairfield Chamber ______________________________________ Vice-President Jason Hullum awarded the couple’s plaque.

Business of the Year is accepted by Jason Hullum of Community National Bank & Trust. Fairfield Chamber Ambassador, Mary Small, made the presentation.

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-Community-

1-B

An Animated Adventure

at Fairfield Band Boosters’ Iigurubando-Con

Kept busy drawing caricatures of those attending Iigurubando-Con, including a very happy Andrea Wempel is cartoonist Kristen McGuire (right). (Photo by Mary McDonald) ___________________________________________________________________ Prior to event, David gave Kellie Hodnett pointers on how to put on an anime convention, as he has assisted in a number of big Dallas cons.

He even created the Iigurubando Con Web-site!

“I like helping out. Kellie approached me about doing this Con and I readily agreed,” David explained.

Another highlight of the convention was the cosplay contest.

Six participants showed off their favorite costumes as the audience voted for their favorites.

Ultimately, it was Reaver of Fable 3, a.k.a. Dallis Gregory, who was awarded the title of runner-up.

The powerful vampire Alucard of Hellsing, Nathan Rikard, claimed the grand prize, a 3 day pass to this year’s A-Kon 26 in Dallas, generously donated by Band Boosters President Kellie Hodnett.

Also in attendance were vendors such as Ken Vail of Healthy Rhythm Community Art Gallery; Caitlin Finley of The Horse’s Mouth Book Store; Artisan Pens by Ed; Russell Holland, author of the Providence Chronicles; David Doub of Dusk Comics; Lisa Cossentino-Miller of Songbird Beauty; Janice Hardin, Name Rings Jewelry, and Kristen McGuire of KrisComics.

Many of these generous individuals, including the talented guests, donated a percentage of their profits to the band.

The Fairfield Band Boosters would like to thank everyone who came out to Iigurubando Con! “We had a great time!” exclaimed Ms. Hodnett.

“A special thank you to our guests, Sonny Strait, Kristen McGuire and David Doub. You Dark Comics publisher, David Doub, brought samples of guys were amazing and the his fiction and lead a panel on the “Origins of Horror” during crowd really loved you!” ____________________ Saturday’s anime convention. (Photo by Mary McDonald) Anime enthusiasts and supporters of the Grand Band from Eagle Land filled the Fairfield Junior High commons area and band halls for a unique fundraising event Saturday, January 24th.

Iigurubando-Con, an anime convention organized by the Fairfield Band Boosters, raised over $3,000 to assist in sending 145 band members to Disney World in Orlando Florida during Spring Break in March.

While there, the band will participate in a marching competition against other bands from all around the world! Contests for the band’s Flag Corps and Twirlers are also held there.

In support of this once in a lifetime trip, renowned voice artist Sonny Strait, cartoonist Kristen McGuire, and David Doub, publisher of Dark Comics, donated their time and talents to Iigurubando-Con. Sonny Strait, most noted as the voice of Krillin from Dragon Ball Z, signed autographs, posed for photographs and hosted an insightful panel,

answering questions while still taking time to playfully harass his family in the audience.

“I was once asked who would win in a fight between Krillin and Yoda,” he recounted when asked about his character’s impressive abilities, “Krillin obviously!”

Cartoonist and voice actress Kristen McGuire was a real crowd pleaser. Along with David Doub, McGuire shared how to draw comics and manga, spending time making illustrations for the crowd.

The third guest at Iigurubando Con, David Doub, seemed to be everywhere at the event Saturday.

He personally conducted the costume contest, interacting with the contestants to keep the event lively and fun.

Besides being available for autographs, he participated in a panel on The Origins of Horror.

David is the Publisher of Dark Comics, which he describes as “dark fiction” about vampires and other creatures of the night.

FACING OFF for the grand prize during the Iigurubando Cosplay Contest held Saturday, January 24th are the vampire Alucard and Reaver. Dallis Gregory (Reaver) was named runner-up and Nathan Rikard (Alucard) took home the win and a three day pass to A-Kon 26 provided by Fairfield Band Booster President Kellie Hodnett. (Photo by Megan Hempel) ________________________________________________________________________

MAKING ONE FAN VERY HAPPY is voice actor Sonny Strait. Mr. Strait graciously agreed to sign shoes, hats, and numerous other items during his autograph sessions. (Photo by Megan Hempel) _______________________________________________________________________

DEMONSTRATING THE SKILL of playing Warmachine/Hordes is Ronnie Tanner. (Photo by Karen Leidy) ______________________________________________________________________

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2-B

Wortham Jr. High All A Honor Roll 6th Grade: Summer Settlemyer, Jaedyn Stapleton, Reagan Stuver and JJ Rojas.

7th Grade: Samantha Lee and Jackson Tacker.

8th Grade: Hallie Fautt, Abby Jenkins, Michael Keathley, Ashley Mao, Abby Pirkle, Taylor Underwood and Dakota Widenor.

AB Honor Roll 6th Grade: Tyler Dunnahoe, Trevor Harp, Dillon Kelley, Travis Laminack and Lane McDaniel.

7th Grade: Kaeley Bean, Jessica Black, Becky Ellestad, RyLee Goolsby, Gunnar Guest, Chance Latham, Skylar Phillips, Skylet Rogers, Justace Starkey, Zak Widenor and Samantha W. 8th Grade: Colton Demonney, Parker Fautt, TaTa Felder, Jayde Hamilton, Kaleb Hook, Mirana Keathley, Matthew Koskol and Carrington McGary. _____________________

Teague Elementary First Grade A Honor Roll: Jaiden Aclin, Jayden Arnold, Preslee Barkouskie, Brenda Barrientos, J.J. Bates, Abby Biggs, Austin Bourgeois, Ziana Brantner, Gracie Brown, Marvin Brown, Kayden Busby, Manny Carr, Nicole Chaires, Jett Chapman, Wyatt Cox, Armando Diaz, Landon Evans, Braden Gauntt, Kynlee Grabbs, Andrea James, Colton Jones, Blake Maggard, Kaley Mason, Alma Medina, Jordan

-EducationTriston McAlpine, James Montrose, Araceli Palacios, Titus Platt, Max Ramirez, Joseph Salinas, Ethan Shoop, Ty’Rhionna Smith, Kinley Staggs ,Kyla Steward, Chris Teal, Charis Ticknor, David Vaughn, Me’Shellei Wright Third Grade A Honor Roll: Shaina Ashford, Medina, Leonardo Morales, Chris Chloe Birdwell, Jacob Boyd, Junior Nickleberry, Anthony Noblin, Bond, Aubrey Cearley, Jolee Haley, Emma Noblin, Kiara Payne, Tammy Holland, Leynie Horton, Anyima Peacock, Daisy Rivera, Dulce Lopez, Keely Mathis, Austin Brenda Rodriguez, Jack Rogers, Mosely, Annie Oakes, Angel Perez, Cinthia Serrato, Gracie Smith, Omar Perez, Declan Smith, Reese Rylee Stacks, Miley Steen, Payton Stacks, Kylynne Terry Thompson, Sebby Velazquez, A/B Honor Roll: Aly Arrezola, Anayeli Bailon, Garrett Barkouskie, Ethan Ward A/B Honor Roll: Ja’Kyrion Allen, James Barrentine, Daniel Beldin, Loani Baranda, Wyatt Childs, Jaycie Boren-Padgett, Jennifer Mason Copeland, Emilee Davila, Contreras, Lexie Couey, Kaylee Yaneli Diaz, Jerry Estrada, Kyrsten Cuevas, Adonias DeSantiago, Anna Hall, Harley Hazen, Brayden Diaz, Jacey Evans, Bradyn Faulk, Leija, Bridget McAlpine, Cole Natalie Gomez, Jaylynn Lockhart, Mims, Rylie Mushinski, Jamont Barrett Maggard, Caroline Molina, Owens, Tristan Phillips, Kyle Angela Owens, Jesse Perez, WantAspyn Perry, Samantha Ramirez, Shugart, Kameryn Thompson, Madison Reid, Ayden Richardson, Mason Warren, Reginald to Williams Know...

Korree Risken, Reid Rogers, Second Grade A Honor Roll: Caiden Adams, Cate Satterwhite, Blakely Scott, Payton Bond, Bo Bowers, Rian Madaline Smitson, Charla Starr, Dillon, Skylar Erwin, Altrie Farris, Brolen White, Cameron Williams, Cameron Fortson, Maggie Alex Yepez Goolsby, Jaylon Gray, Andres _______________________ Henriquez, Korbin Hullum, James Ingram, Quincy Jones, Rodrigo Lerma, Esmeralda Lopez, Alexis McKain Brown, Ellie McManus, Jesse Montrose, Dixon Nichols, Karlie Paris, Jayci Phillips, Laila Ross, John Clayton Stuver, Rhyleigh Tanksley, Luke Winters, Claudia Zamora A/B Honor Roll: Moises Alamilla, Cameron Allison, Jennifer Alvarez, Nate Arredondo, Tee Bates, Michael Buck, Gene Burns, Dreyvin Carpenter, Caden Crutcher, Grayson Dancer, Jaxon Dillon, De’ja Franklin, Aldo Gallegos, Gayla Garcia, Cam Gonzales, Brandon Gray, Brycen The paper Hensel, Kymani Johnson, Jason with Kiser, Zak Leija, Ashlynn Little, Ellie Mathison, Jacob Matthews, the “BUZZ”

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Local Scout Earns Eagle Award Court of Honor Planned for Feb. 14th

Fairfield Junior, Dakota Thornburg, 16, earned the Boy Scout rank of Eagle Scout on September 18, 2014. A special Court of Honor will be held February 14 at First Baptist Church, Fairfield, beginning at 3 pm to celebrate. The ceremony will be in the church sanctuary with a reception to follow in the children’s department. All friends, scouts and scouters are invited to attend with a special invitation extended to Eagle Scouts. Scouting attire is encouraged. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest Rank awarded to

Boy Scouts and is earned by only 2-4% of all scouts.

Dakota began his Scouting career in the first grade as a Tiger Cub. He continued through the ranks of Cub Scouts and earned their highest award of Arrow of Light. He crossed over to Boy Scouts in 2009.

In Boy Scouts, Dakota attended several different summer camps, merit badge camps, served in various positions of responsibility within his Troop, and participated in multiple service projects.

He was selected for Order of the Arrow and completed Twin Arrows National Youth Leadership Training.

After moving up through the ranks of Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star and Life, to achieve Eagle a Scout must earn 21 merit badges and demonstrate Scout spirit, service and leadership.

This includes an extensive service project that the Scout plans, organizes, leads and manages.

Dakota’s Eagle project was the renovation of rooms used by the 5th and 6th graders at First Baptist Church. Walls were torn down, carpeting taken up and replaced, doorways were sheet rocked over, and all was painted. Funds for the project were raised through the church by donations and with Dakota planning and executing a spaghetti dinner. After 255 man hours by Dakota and a small group of volunteers the project was completed.

Dakota would like to again thank his church family for all their support during his project and the volunteers who worked so hard to make it happen. A special thanks goes to his first ScoutMaster, Keith Turchi, of Troop 668, Fairfield, Hope Brewer, CubMaster of Cub Scout Pack 668, Fairfield, and Clint Flatt, ScoutMaster, Troop 70, Mexia under whom Dakota achieved Eagle. Thank you for your guidance, your leadership and your involvement with the Boy Scouts of America. ____________________

Nomination Forms Accepted for Gifted & Talented Program Kindergarten students in Fairfield ISD may be nominated for the Gifted and Talented Program by parents or community members until February 4th.

Parents or others from the community may nominate students for consideration for the program by completing a nomination form in the elementary office. The gifted program is designed to meet the needs of students who are able to perform at a remarkably high level of accomplishment compared to others their age.

--Is your child quick to see solutions and new ways to solve problems?

--Does your child love to learn something new? Will she stay interested in that new subject?

--Is your child deeply

sensitive to the feelings of others?

--Does your child show strong determination and persistence?

--Does your child is think of unique ways to express ideas?

--Does your child show strong determination and persistence?

--When your child is working in a special area of interest, is he/she able to work long periods of time without getting tired of it?

--When faced with difficult or complex work, does your child enjoy the challenge?

--If this describes your child, he/she may be showing characteristics of giftedness. For additional information, contact Rachel Bossier at 903-389-2148 or Rachel.bossier@fairfield. k12.tx.us

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Hours -Entertainment -

i-45 restaurant and coffee shop Exit 197 - Fairfield, TX - 903-389-3383

3-B

OPEN 24 HOURS

Online Book Club

Fairfield

to Learn about Oveta Culp Hobby

by John Stevens

by John Stevens

We’re plunging into 2015, although there seem to be loose ends from 2014. The library has changed it hours back to the old schedule of Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

The County restored most of their funding past commitment, prompting this change.

Computer training will be available on a computer program at the library or through your home computer.

There has been major personnel changes as we saw Barbara Crossno, 37 year volunteer on the Library Board and at the library, retire and move to Austin, Texas. Barbara was the leading citizen for the Moody Matching Grant that financed the current building in 1981. Barbara also served on the Central Texas Library System Board in Austin for many years.

Another change occurred when Helen Defrance, library staff member for nine and a half years, resigned to follow family service pursuits. Grandbabies rule!

Fourteen resumes were received to fill the staff position, and Audie McAdams was selected for the position. Welcome Audie on your next visit.

Wally Torrez, who had been working at the library on a Workforce grant was hired on a part time schedule.

The Fairfield Library Association Board of Directors asked Gary Wiggins, of Red Hat Rentals, to fill Barbara Crossno’s vacancy.

The library received it’s certification for 2015 from the Texas Library Association and archives Commission.

After many hours of discussion, consultation and planning over the last few years, the Board decided to sell the property it had purchased on Fairway for new library construction.

An offer by the Fairfield Industrial Development Corporation and Navarro College to renovate a building on the new college campus site was turned down for cost and building size issues.

Plans now are to use the current building with design changes to better meet the needs of the library public.

John Fryer has served the Fairfield Library Board and, at the same time served the Fairfield Independent School District. We appreciate the service of all the library Board member volunteers and John, also, for his FISD volunteerism.

2014 saw a great deal of support from the community in library use, memorial donations, book donations and program participation.

Luminant, the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Pizza Hut, Lyle Oil and Auto Parts, Sonic, All About Taxes, Best Friends Daycare, Call 4 Computers, Red Hat Rentals, City of Fairfield, Freestone County, Central Texas Library System, Inc., Navarro College and numerous personal donors Approximately 7,000 book assisted the Public Library to selections will be available serve in 2014. Many thanks! through the new e-Book This year, as last, the program. library did NOT receive IRS filing forms and publications.

Teague Library was promised the 1040 series of IRS report forms but had not yet received them. You can access the list of forms and publications online ((over 10,000) on your computer at irs. gov site. When you find a form you need, you can download it and print it for use. At the library, we reduced the charge for a copy page of your tax information or forms to 10 cents each. Filing and submitting via the free Turbo tax form is available, however, to retain a copy requires a thumb drive.

Editorial Comment: How have the American people allowed their elected representatives to make such a complicated, frustrating and unfair system just to pay our taxes? Somebody is crazy in this picture; the representatives or us. We should make all candidates swear to stop this insanity. I never know if I’m paying too much or too little and where it is really spent. Thanks.

The Board has implemented the availability of e-Books at the library through the Overdrive program. Once registered into the program, e-Books may be downloaded into e-readers from any online computer source. To register, you must have a valid library card (issued free on presentation of verified residence), and registration by someone at the library.

For those needing e-reader operations skills, a class will be held on demand for instructions. The library will not supply e-reader devices to the public. Library cards not updated or owing fines will be ineligible.

Approximately 7,000 book selections will be available on a first come basis. The Fairfield Public Library is part of the North Central Texas Library Consortium (about 15 area libraries) to share their inventory of e-Books.

Newly purchased books include: “Killing Patton” by O’Reilly, “Rush Revere and the American Revolution”, by Limbaugh, “George Washington’s Secret Six”, by Brain Kilmeade, “41” by George W Bush, “Mean Streak” by Sandra Brown, “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In “ by Luis Zamperini, “The Total Money Manager” by Dave Ramsey and others. Please look around your living areas for unreturned overdue library books. Mention this article for a discount.

by John Stevens

Oveta Culp Hobby wore many hats during her long and eventful life: director of the Women’s Army Corps and the first Army woman to earn the rank of colonel; first secretary of Health, Education and Welfare; chairman of the board of the Houston Post; and leadership in the city of Houston that included advocating for civil rights and working with the Houston Symphony and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Oveta Culp Hobby: Colonel, Cabinet Member, and Philanthropist, by Debra L. Winegarten is the first biography of this remarkable woman, whose life spanned most of the 20th century – 1905 to 1995.

On March 2 at 7:30 p.m., Texas PBS will present an online discussion with Winegarten, giving readers the chance to learn more about Mrs. Hobby and her many accomplishments.

To participate, go to texasourtexas.texaspbs. org/book-club.

Winegarten follows Mrs. Hobby from her childhood in Killeen to the University of Texas School of Law, to Houston, where she made her home. In 1941, with the United States on the brink of entering World War II, General David Searles asked Mrs. Hobby to build a women’s army from scratch.

Initially reluctant to leave her family in Houston, her husband – former Governor William P. Hobby – encouraged her to accept the challenge.

Coming up later in 2015 for the Texas PBS Online Book Club are Texas Ranger: Jack Hays in the Frontier

Fairfield Library Report

by John Stevens

by John Stevens

Southwest by James Kimmins Greer; The Life and Times of Willie Velasquez: Su Voto Es Su Voz by Juan Sepulveda; and The Improbable Rise of Redneck Rock by Jan Reid.

Texas PBS invites everyone to join the conversation and be part of this unique experience. Go to texasourtexas.texaspbs. org/book-club, www. facebook.com/texaspbs, and @TexasPBS on Twitter.

About the Texas PBS Online Book Club The Texas PBS Online Book Club was formed by Texans who want more opportunities to learn and discuss our shared history.

The book club meets online throughout the year and gives readers a chance to discuss topics with noted experts.

Past topics have included Governor Ann Richards, the role of Texas in the Civil War and the 1937 New London, Texas, school explosion.

For more information about the online book club, go to texasourtexas.texaspbs. org/book-club.

About Texas PBS The mission of Texas PBS is to build a vibrant public broadcasting platform throughout Texas by: --Cultivating financial resources for local affiliates - - S p e a r h e a d i n g collaborations among stations --Illuminating public issues through relevant program content --Advocating for policies that support robust public media For more information about Texas PBS, go to www. texaspbs.org. ___________________

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FREESTONE COUNTY TIMES

903-389-NEWS (6397)

-School Sports-

4-B

Teague Lions Basketball

Fairfield Eagle Basketball Jan 20 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 30 Feb 3 Feb 6 Feb 10 Feb 17

Palestine Madisonville Brownsboro Groesbeck Mexia Palestine Madisonville Groesbeck

Away Home Home Home Away Home Away Away

Jan. 20 McGregor Home Jan. 23 West Away Jan. 27 Blooming Grove Home Jan. 30 Bruceville-Eddy Away Feb. 3 Clifton Home Feb. 6 Marlin Away Feb. 10 Whitney Home Feb. 13 McGregor Away Feb. 17 West Home

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Palestine Madisonville Open Groesbeck Mexia Palestine Madisonville

6:30pm 6:30pm 6:30pm 6:30pm

(903) 389-2159 903-389-4125 620 S. Elm

Agency Manager

4

C

Backing The Lions, Eagles & Bulldogs To The Playoffs!

(903) 389-1300

Jan. 20 Kerens Jan. 23 LaPoynor Jan. 27 Cross Roads Jan. 30 Dawson Feb. 3 Bye Feb. 6 Cayuga Feb. 10 Hubbard

5pm 4pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm

Encourages you to support your local High School Sports Teams!

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GO! FIGHT! WIN!

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GO EAGLES!!!

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We support all Freestone County Teams!

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Wishing all the Teams of Freestone County a Winning Season.

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Jan. 20 Kerens Jan. 23 LaPoynor Jan. 27 Cross Roads Jan. 30 Dawson Feb. 6 Cayuga Feb. 10 Hubbard Feb. 13 Kerens Feb. 17 LaPoynor

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Jan. 20 McGregor Home Jan. 23 West Away Jan. 27 Blooming Grove Home Jan. 30 Bruceville-Eddy Away Feb. 3 Clifton Home Feb. 6 Marlin Away Feb. 10 Whitney Home

Away 6:30pm Home 6:30pm Home Away Home Away

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Teague Lady Lions Basketball

Fairfield Lady Eagle Basketball Jan 20 Jan 23 Jan 27 Jan 30 Feb 3 Feb 6 Feb 10

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Our Teams

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-Sports-

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

5-B

Split Week for Lady Eagles The Fairifeld Lady Eagles earned a split of the week and are in the top three in the district at the halfway point. Fairfield fell behind but regained the lead in both games.

The Lady Eagles travelled to Palestine to take on the Ladycats.

Palestine was looking for its first district win of the season and the Lady Eagles were trying to avoid a second straight loss. The Ladycats jumped into a 12-3 lead but Fairfield went on a run to trail by two at the end of the first quarter.

Fairfield got three pointers from Kim Hayes and Jaida Smith to take the lead in the contest. Sarie Hill hit three of four free throws and took a 25-21 halftime lead.

Hill and DaMeka Shed scored six points each in the second half and the Fairfield Lady Eagles coasted to a 5142 win in District 18-4A play.

Shed finished the game with 14 points and Hill also added a double digit night with 12.

Smith added eight and Hayes finished with seven in the win.

Fairfield returned to the Johnson Activity Center to take on the Madisonville Lady Mustangs. Fairfield needed to win to stay within a win of the district leading Mexia Ladycats. The game was a thriller all the way to the final buzzer.

Madisonville jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead with a three pointer by Tra’Dayia Smith.

She added a short jumper and a free throw in the run. Erica Lyle ended the run with a free throw and Susan Owens hit a long three to cut the lead to 10-4 midway through the opening period. The Lady Mustangs continue to hold a double digit lead and had a 17-6 lead at the end of the first.

Smith hit a shot to open the second and that would be the only field goal the Lady Mustangs would score the entire period. The Lady Eagle defense held Madisonville to three points and scored nine in the period to cut the lead to five. Fairfield missed their seven shots from the field but Caitlynn Stone scored a lay up and Shed had a basket and foul shot to cut into the lead.

Stone scored just before the half and the Lady Mustangs held a 20-15 halftime lead.

Alexia Leveston had a put back off the glass to extend the lead to eight and Stone answered with a three pointer to cut back into the lead. Lyle hit a three pointer and Hill had a basket and foul shot. The Lady Eagles kept the defensive pressure on and gave up only four more points in the third period.

The Lady Eagle defense held Madisonville to only seven points over the second and third period on three of fifteen shooting. Fairfield was able to take the lead heading into the fourth period at 28-24.

Susan Owens and Shed added to the lead in the

early moments of the fourth period and Smith and Shakayla Burns were keeping the Lady Mustangs in the game. Fairfield was in the penalty and the Lady Mustangs attempted 22 free throws in the fourth and hit 14 of them, six by Burns and three by Smith. Shed had a put back and was fouled but missed the free throw to lead by three 38-35 with just over a minute to go. Burns cut the lead to one and Smith hit a free throw to send the game into overtime.

Smith opened the overtime period with a jumper and three pointer.

The Lady Mustangs went on a 7-0 run over the first couple of minutes of extra time and led 45-38 before Sarie Hill hit a couple of free throws and Shed had a basket to cut into the lead but it was not enough. Madisonville’s Smith closed the game out with three of four at the foul line and the road win 51-45.

Shed led the Lady Eagle scoring with 14 points and Stone also finished in double digit with 10.

Fairfield will host a pair of games at the Johnson Activity Center when they host Brownsboro in a nondistrict game and then will resume district play against the Groesbeck Lady Goats in the first game of the second round of district play.

Scott Batts reporting. _____________________

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Wortham Up Against Kerens Going up for the blocked shot is Daniel Trantham. Wortham Bulldogs lead Kerens going into the half, but couldn’t hold on in the end. Kerens ended up with the win. Final score, Wortham 38 Kerens 57.

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Lady Bulldogs Defeat Kerens

Fighting off the tough Mustang defense is Lady Eagle Sarie Hill. Fairfield lost the game to Madisonville in overtime play on Friday, January 23, 2015.

(Photo by Melissa Lee)

Resolutions E SAF EN V O R P IVE ECT EFF

The Lady Bulldogs held off the Lady Bobcats for the third time this year.

Wortham was up 30-21 at the half but trailed 36-39 at the end of the third.

Kameron Rhodes and Elisha Libhart made some high pressure free throws at the end of the game to seal the win for Wortham.

Wortham’s seniors

stepped up their play and Elisha Libhart held Breanna Baxter to 11 points as the Lady Bulldogs improved to 20-4 on the season and 4-3 in District play.

Points scored: Kamarie Freeman 19, Elisha Libhart 13, Kameron Rhodes11, and Courtney Chasteen 9.

Reported by Coach Vance Hughes

With a 2 pt. shot, Courtney Chasteen helps the Lady Bulldogs with the win over Kerens Tuesday night at home.

(Photos by Jennifer Lansford)

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Eagles Sweep Week to take District Lead

Fighting a Mustang for control of the ball is Eagle Cam Adams. (Photo by Melissa Lee)

The Fairfield Eagles swept the week of district games, passed twenty wins, and took over the district 18-4A lead all by themselves. They are alone at the top at 3-0 and face a pivotal week of games this week.

The Eagles took to the road to Palestine to take on the Wildcats. Fairfield took control in the second half on the way to the district win.

Both teams were a little shaky at the beginning of the game, although Jarrett Carpenter hit the first shot of the game. From there, the Eagles made one of their next eight from the field and Palestine took the lead at the free throw line. Fairfield got hot at the end of the period when Eagle guards, Rahiem

Hayes, Keishaun Cunningham and a pair from Cam Adams each hit shots from the field and regained the lead and had a 13-8 lead after one.

Fairfield extended the lead into the second quarter with Cam Hicks hitting a couple of short jumpers but Palestine took the lead on four of five from the field. Kevin Parrish hit all eight of his free throws in the frame and Palestine took the lead at the half 2825.

Palestine faced a fierce defense to open the second half. Hicks and Charles Oliver opened with a pair of baskets, Oliver’s on a beautiful pass from Hicks for the lay in.

Adams added a pair of the three pointers, one of them turned into a four point play

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Palestine made only one of their final ten from the field in the third period and were outscored 20-6.

The third period and into the fourth period, Fairfield went on a 28-6 run to take the lead they would not give up. Adams hit a three along with two other baskets and Ransom hit a pair of jumpers to seal the 62-50 district win.

Adams finished with four three pointers and 23 points on the night. Fourth others neared double digits and Palestine guard Parrish 16 points, hitting all nine of his attempts from the foul line.

The Eagles returned to the Johnson Activity Center to take on the Madisonville Mustangs.

This was an second quarter but Oliver and Hicks each scored and extended the lead. At the end of the first half, Ransom scored when he had a steal and coast to coast lay up.

Brackens had an easy score on the crossover dribble for a 33-22 lead at intermission.

The Eagles caught fire from the field in the third period, making eight of eleven shots and outscoring the Mustangs 20-11 to take a 20 point lead. Cam Adams scored on three of those field goals and Carpenter added two more for the 53-33 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

The teams exchanged point for point in the final period and the Eagles maintained

important district contest and the Mustangs were trying to solidify their position in the district standings, but the Eagles took control early.

Madisonville jumped out to a quick lead but the Eagles quickly took the lead and maintained it throughout the game.

Charles Oliver sparked the first quarter offense with a thundering dunk off of a backcourt steal.

Keishaun Cunningham stole one on the next possession and repeated the feat on a beautiful pass and was fouled.

David Ransom and Dominic Bracken, returning from an ankle injury, hit threes to finish the first period with a 10-0 run and an 18-10 lead.

Fairfield went cold from the field in the early part of the the twenty point lead and the 75-55 win. Ransom sparked a run of four straight field goals for Fairfield and Dedrick Garner and Caleb Scires added fourth quarter baskets as the time elapsed.

Cam Adams scored 14 points to lead the Eagles scoring and Charles Oliver hit double figures with 10.

The Fairfield Eagles hit their bye game on Tuesday but they don’t get the night off. The Eagles face the Brownsboro Bears on Tuesday and then return to the Johnson Activity Center and district play when the Groesbeck Goats come to town.

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Making the two point shot against the Madisonville Mustangs is Fairfield Eagle Charles Oliver.

(Photo by Melissa Lee)

FJH Boys Win 3 of 4 The Fairfield Junior High Boys Basketball teams won three of the four games against Mexia on January 22nd.

8A Team won – Fairfield 47, Mexia 36.

Scoring points for Fairfield were: Jaise Oliver – 17, Kameron Ransom – 11, Kadarrius Walker and Jordan Gibson – 8 points each, Devin Cunningham scored 2 and Keshum Crenshaw put one on the scoreboard.

8B Team won – Fairfield 37, Mexia 17.

Scoring points were: Adan Vazquez – 10, Jashaugn Hatchr and Darrell Jones – 8 each, Kyle Wallace and Tonio Carter

– 3 each, Jack Latshaw and Sahil Raja – 2 each, and Jordan Dawkins made 1.

7A Team lost - Fairfield 42, Mexia 51.

Scoring were: McWilliams – 12 points, Jarmicael Hudson and Gelico Dudley – 8 points each, Chris Cotton – 7 points, Kendrick Parks – 3 points, and Andrew Williams and Justim Abram made 2 each.

7B Team won – Fairfield 25, Mexia 21.

Scoring were: Connor Smith – 7, Brandon Washington – 6, Tyler Haynes and Carl Daniels 4 each, and Blake Martinez and Michael Crouch made 2 points each.

JANUARY 2015

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

FREESTONE COUNTY TIMES

Ceremony Creative ways to make a memorable entrance ...........................................................................

Planning

Guide to choosing the right groomsmen ...........................................................................

Trends Hot trends in wedding cuisine

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

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The timing of when a couple cuts the wedding cake can have a specific meaning. Long ago, the cake was usually cut at the very end of the reception and would signal to the guests that it was the end of the festivities. Today, cutting the cake is an unspoken signal that represents that the formal wedding is nearing a close, and guests who would like to leave can do so without worry of being rude. Many couples will cut the cake right after dinner as a courtesy to older guests who may want to get started on their trips home. This affords them the chance to make an earlier exit, rather than staying through the dancing that could extend into the wee hours of the night or missing the cake entirely. Cutting the cake mid-reception also serves another practical purpose for couples who are paying a photographer by the hour. Photographers typically go home after the cake-cutting, so a mid-reception cutting can save couples a substantial amount of money.

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How to Preserve Wedding Bouquets and Arrangements A bride’s gown may garner its share of attention come her wedding day, but floral arrangements also tend to impress guests. Fresh flowers make a wedding and the ensuing reception more inviting and appealing.

According to The Knot.com, couples can expect to spend 8 percent of their wedding budget on flowers.

For the average wedding, that equates to roughly $2,000 for various arrangements and bouquets. That can be a considerable expense for fragile flowers with a shelf life of only a day or two.

But instead of tossing beautiful bouquets and other flowers into the garbage once the wedding day has come and gone, couples can employ various methods to preserve those impressive displays for years to come.

Air drying One of the easiest ways to preserve flowers is to dry them out. This is best done by hanging blooms upside down so they will remain straight and not warp or wither while drying.

Secure flowers in small bundles and hang from an out-of-the-way spot in a cool, dry area. The flowers may need to remain hanging for up to three weeks before they are completely dried out. After which, gently remove the flowers and arrange them in a vase or another container. Otherwise, reassemble a bouquet how it was and carefully display.

Pressing Pressing is another way to preserve floral bouquets and arrangements. To press flowers, find a few heavy books to stack or another weighted object. Place the flowers between parchment paper or waxed paper and lay the heavy items on top. You also can place the flowers in tissue paper between the pages of a book so they are not jostled.

Leave the blooms for a week or two and then check on them before putting them in a shadow box or photo frame.

Chemical drying Silica gel, borax and regular sand can be used to dry and preserve flowers as well. These can be handy for people who desire to preserve an entire bouquet as-is.

Silica gel is a desiccant commonly found in small packets inside of new shoes and purses. It also can be purchased at home improvement retailers and is used to dry out musty basements and other areas.

Fill a deep container halfway with the silica gel or other drying material. Put in the bouquet and then gently add more product to the top of the flowers so they are completely submerged. Place a snug cover over the top of the container and let everything sit for about a week. Slowly the moisture will be absorbed from the flowers.

Some people choose to spray dried flowers with a sealant to keep them looking nice longer. An all-purpose craft spray might work. You also can ask for recommendations from the florist who handled your arrangements, and that florist may even preserve the flowers for you for an additional fee.

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7 Tips for a Great Honeymoon A couple’s honeymoon is their first real chance to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of wedding planning.

Couples who want to make sure their first getaway as husband and wife goes off without a hitch might want to heed the following advice.

1. Start saving early.

Honeymoons are expensive, so to afford the vacation of your dreams it’s wise to begin saving for the honeymoon as early as possible. It may be well worth it to compromise and make sacrifices in other areas to ensure you have enough funds for your dream honeymoon getaway. Do not expect cash gifts at your wedding to pay for your trip.

If you do, you may be sorely disappointed when the time comes to take off.

2. Read online reviews.

Online reviews can paint an accurate picture of a potential honeymoon destination.

Look at vacationer-supplied photographs to see how the accommodations match up to the resort’s own marketing materials. You don’t want too many surprises, such as service fees, dirty rooms or a lack of beach amenities, to ruin your trip.

3. Plan at least one exciting outing. While on

your honeymoon, be sure to go on at least one adventure.

Try an activity you have never done before, such as snorkeling, traveling a zip line or swimming with stingrays.

4. Pack early. After a long wedding day and reception spent dancing into the wee hours of the morning, you probably do not want to spend time packing. Pack your suitcases and travel essentials in advance of your wedding day so you have more time to sleep in before you depart for the airport. Also, remember not to over-pack. You want to have room for the souvenirs you purchase along the way.

5. Enjoy your surroundings.

Put down the smartphone or tablet enough to truly enjoy your surroundings. A honeymoon is an opportunity to relax, and that may not be possible if you’re tied to your devices. Friends at home can wait for your status updates and wedding pictures.

6. Splurge on something expensive. Whether it’s an ultra-fancy dinner or an exotic souvenir, indulge.

7. Leave your itinerary open. After scores of wedding appointments and watching the clock, it’s nice to fly by the seat of your pants. _____________________

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

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How to Build a Wedding Registry Many once-popular wedding traditions have fallen by the wayside. But one wedding tradition that has withstood the test of time is the wedding registry. Couples about to tie the knot still build a wedding registry so their guests know what to buy them as wedding gifts. This saves guests the trouble of agonizing over what to buy the couple getting hitched and also ensures that couples won’t receive two or more of the same item.

Building a registry can be fun, as couples can act like kids in a candy store and add items they might otherwise not be able to afford. But there is a method to building a registry that can ensure the process of giving and receiving gifts is comfortable and convenient for everyone involved.

--Choose a national chain. Many stores will allow couples to establish a registry, but it behooves couples to choose a national chain or chains for their registry. A local boutique store might sell several items you would love to have, but that store may only be accessible to guests who live nearby, and such stores may be more expensive than larger national chains that can afford to charge less for similar products. Choosing a national chain ensures all of your guests will be able to access and purchase a gift from your registry, and make those purchases without breaking the bank.

--Choose a store with an online presence. When choosing a store for your registry, it also helps to choose a store with an online presence that’s user-friendly. Ideally, pick an online retailer you have already had positive experiences with. This not only will make it easier for your guests, but also for you should you decide to return items down the road.

--Choose more than one store. You also want to choose more than one store when building a registry. Some guests will prefer to shop in-store rather than online, so you want to give them some options so they don’t have to drive far

and wide to find the lone brick and mortar store for your registry.

--Visit the stores and do your homework. Though some stores allow you to develop a registry entirely online, it still helps for couples to visit the store together and build their registries in the more traditional way. Visiting a store as opposed to browsing the store website allows you to touch and feel products, which can give you a more accurate idea of their quality. In addition to seeing the products in person, read online reviews of products before putting them on your registry so you can ensure you’re getting quality items.

--Choose items that vary in price. Many couples are sheepish about putting expensive items on their registries.

That’s not surprising, as the cost of attending a wedding, especially one that features lots of out-of-town guests, can be substantial. But some guests, such as the bride and groom’s parents and siblings, may want to give a more high-end gift, so don’t be afraid to include items in a range of prices, from the inexpensive to the more costly, on your registry.

--Don’t abandon the registry after your big day.

You won’t end up getting everything you include on your registry, but that doesn’t mean you should just forget about those items that never made their way into your home.

Many retailers offer couples significant discounts on items from their registries that were never purchased, and those discounts may extend for as long as a year after the big day. Revisit your registry after the wedding to see if you can find great deals on those items you never received, and continue to do so until the registry expires.

Building a registry can be a fun activity for couples about to tie the knot. But there are some guidelines to follow to make the process go smoothly for guests and couples alike.

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Make Your Engagement Bachelors in Fine Art/Photography Sam Houston State University Photo Shoot a Success Engagement photos vary depending on the couple.

Often reserved for save-thedate cards and now commonly used to spruce up wedding websites, engagement photos can range from formal shoots in which couples are dressed to the nines to more laid back shots featuring couples in more everyday attire.

When planning an engagement shoot, couples should give themselves carte blanche with regard to style, as the photo shoot need not follow many of the more accepted rules that the wedding itself will ultimately adhere to. Once couples have settled on a style for their photo shoot, there are additional ways to ensure the session is a success.

--Find a photographer who shares your sensibilities.

Photographers can vary greatly in style, and an engagement photo shoot will be most successful when couples find a photographer whose style matches the theme they are looking for with their photo shoot. You likely would not hire a nature photographer to photograph a basketball game, so don’t hire someone who specializes in posed shots if you want your photos to be more lively and spontaneous. Before you

hire anyone, ask for samples of each photographer’s work to be certain you’re getting someone who has experiencing shooting the type of photos you want to take.

--Solicit ideas from the photographer.

Some couples already know exactly where they want their engagement photos to be shot and which poses they want to be arranged.

However, many couples have little or no experience with professional photo shoots, and such couples should solicit ideas from each photographer they are considering hiring.

A skilled and/or seasoned photographer should propose several ideas. Be wary of photographers who offer little input, as you may ultimately be dissatisfied with their work once the shoot has come and gone.

Many engagement photos will never be seen by anyone other than the photographer and the couple he or she is shooting, so don’t be bashful during candid shots for fear of being embarrassed down the road. Have fun with the candid shots, and your other photos are likely to come out better as a result.

An engagement photo shoot should be fun and reflect the personalities of the couple.

A few simple strategies can ensure couples’ shoots accomplish both of those things.

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--Avoid studio shots.

Many couples prefer their engagement photos be taken somewhere they have a personal connection to, such as the sight of their first date or a park they frequently visit. Studio photo shoots might provide the best lighting, but couples have no connection to such spaces, and down the road they may regret not taking the photos in someplace that’s a little more meaningful. In addition, a photo shoot outside the studio affords couples and their photographer more opportunities to experiment and improvise, which can produce a wider array of shots than a studio photo shoot is likely to deliver.

--Don’t forget candid shots. Candid shots make the photo shoot more fun and loosen couples up a little bit.

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Be Smart About Wedding Beauty Preparation All eyes are on the bride and groom on their wedding day.

Feeling beautiful and dapper can boost a couple’s confidence and ensure they look back on their wedding photographs and videos with pride.

Certain beauty basics and makeup and hair strategies can help any bride look spectacular on her wedding day. The following are some dos and don’ts of wedding day beauty preparations.

DO employ the services of a professional hairstylist and makeup artist. Professionals have the experience and tools of the trade to help you to look your best. From contouring to make your face seem slimmer to enlarging the appearance of small eyes, some tricks of the trade are best left to the pros.

DON’T forget to schedule a trial run. Make this appointment several months before the wedding day so you have ample time to work with your stylists and experiment with colors and hair arrangements to fit your personality and the style of your gown. Take plenty of pictures and notes so you will remember what needs to be on hand for the wedding day.

DO allot enough time for the wedding day beauty appointment. If you will be going to a salon, block out two or more slots instead of one. This way the stylist does not overbook and will not feel rushed. Many brides opt to have stylists come to their homes. There may be an extra charge for this service, but it may be well worth the cost.

DON’T make any drastic changes to your appearance right before the wedding. This includes changing your hair color or texture, extreme tanning, using colored contact lenses, or chopping off all of your hair. It’s better to wait until after the wedding to change your style.

DO bring a veil, headpiece, hair extensions, and any other accessories to your hair consult. This enables the stylist to practice working with these items.

DON’T tweeze or wax brows too close to the start of the ceremony. Redness and swelling are common side effects of

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tweezing and waxing, and they can be difficult to mask with makeup. Instead, take care of hair removal a day or two prior to the wedding.

DO exfoliate your skin prior to the wedding. This doesn’t necessarily mean you should endure a harsh fruit acid peel or another procedure. You can exfoliate with a gentle washing of your skin with a nubby washcloth to remove any dryness and errant flakes. Moisturize well to ensure a smooth palette for makeup application.

DON’T wash or condition hair the day of the wedding.

Intricate styles tend to stay better when hair has a little grip.

“Dirty” hair is easier to work with than shiny, freshly washed locks. If you must wash, remember to thoroughly dry your hair before going to your appointment.

DO wear a little extra makeup than you are accustomed to wearing because it will show up better in photos. However, do not wear so much that you look clownish. A makeup artist can help you achieve the right balance.

DON’T have bridesmaids wear makeup that is bolder than yours, especially red lips. No one should upstage the bride.

DO experiment with any products you haven’t used before to test for allergic reactions and see how well they wear.

DON’T wear too much under-eye concealer or one that is too light of a shade. This can draw more attention to problem areas than remedy them.

DO bring a pain relief medication in case a tight hairstyle or headpiece causes a headache.

DON’T forget that men need a little help as well. Exfoliation and moisturizing can help dry skin. Guys should use a new razor and plenty of cream before shaving to avoid irritation.

A dusting of finishing powder can banish shiny noses and foreheads for photo-ready faces.

Chances are more photographs will be taken of a newlywed couple than at any other moment in their lives. Certain beauty dos and don’ts should be followed so couples put their best faces forward.

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Wedding Invitation and Postage Tips Whether a couple is planning a lavish wedding or a more low-key affair, the wedding invitations are an essential part of keeping guests informed about the big day.

While couples can now share details of their wedding through email or even digital invitations, many still prefer to go the traditional route and send paper invitations.

In addition to the cost of the invitations themselves, couples need to factor postage into their wedding budgets. It may not seem like much, but the cost of postage can add up quickly. The following are a few postage pointers for couples about to tie the knot.

--Choose envelopes wisely. The size of your envelopes contributes to the cost of the postage necessary to mail your invitations.

Postal services have specific size and shape parameters that govern postage. Envelopes that are oddly shaped or fall outside of these strict measurements are usually susceptible to additional postage charges. That’s because the envelope cannot run through standard sorting machinery and must be hand-processed.

--Consider the weight. Mailings that exceed one ounce will require additional postage, even if they are in standard envelopes. Invitations, with their various components and thick card stock, typically weigh more than one ounce.

Never purchase postage in advance, as you will not know what the completed invitation costs prior to mailing. Always weigh the invitation with all inserts included to get an accurate estimate of postage. Then purchase stamps accordingly.

--Get to know your local postal employee.

Many postal employees, especially those who work at the smaller branches, grow accustomed to seeing the same customers over and over. They can be very helpful and good resources when it comes to saving money on postage. Strike up a conversation with the person behind the counter and ask advice on the best way to mail invitations and ensure they arrive looking beautiful. Choose an off-peak time so the postal employee can give you his or her full attention and will not feel rushed by a line forming behind you.

The employee may suggest hand-canceling envelopes, which means the invitation will be

processed by hand rather than run through machinery to avoid damage.

uploaded image to make the invitations even more special.

--Stamp the return envelope. Invitations typically include response cards that guests will send back to confirm if they will be attending the festivities. To facilitate the RSVP process, stamp the response card.

--Do a test run. You may want to send a complete invitation to yourself just to see how it arrives in the mail. This way you can check the level of damage and have an opportunity to make any changes, such as adding a piece of vellum to prevent ink from smudging or to place bows or adornments in another area.

--Prep invitations six to eight weeks in advance. Invitations should be mailed nearly two months prior to the wedding. This allows guests to plan and respond accordingly.

--Double-check envelopes before sending. Ensure that postage is sticking well and that envelopes are well-sealed. In addition, verify that you have the most current addresses for recipients. If invitations get returned to sender, they can cost you even more time and money to resolve any issues.

--Consider custom postage. The post office should carry several attractive options for wedding invitation stamps. However, you also may be able to go online and purchase custom postage that features a graphic or an

--Give your mail carrier a heads-up. Let your assigned mail carrier know that response cards will be on the way. They tend to be small and can get lost in among other letters and mail. A small token of gratitude, such as a gift card, for your mail carrier may ensure all of your response cards arrive.

A wedding just isn’t the same without the guests. Make sure friends and family are well informed about the wedding by sending out invitations in advance and ensuring the proper postage will get those invites where they need to go.

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

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Guide to Choosing the Right Groomsmen Music Mistakes to Avoid Wedding guests are usually anxious to head to the reception, where they can let loose and party. Music is an essential component of a lively and fun wedding reception, and there are some musical miscues couples should look to avoid to ensure the music is not memorable for all the wrong reasons.

--Blocks of silence: Nothing makes time seem interminable more than silence. Always have a constant flow of music to avoid awkward silences. This includes the time guests are waiting prior to the ceremony as well as when they’re entering the cocktail hour. Music will help everyone feel comfortable, and it creates a pleasing atmosphere, so make sure music plays throughout the festivities.

--Second-guessing a professional: In an effort to curb costs, some couples provide their own playlists via an mp3 player or a streaming service for the music.

This is often a mistake. Hiring a professional means you will not have to worry about managing music on top of your many other wedding day responsibilities.

A band or deejay usually also serves as the emcee for the event, announcing key moments of the reception as well as getting guests up on the dance floor.

--Playing only one type of music: Playing too many songs from one genre of music will alienate some of the guests who simply are not interested in that type of music. Professional deejays or performers know how to offer a great mix that will appeal to the masses, and they are often well worth the cost. Try to span different decades and genres to keep as many of your guests on the dance floor as possible.

--Failure to make a song list: Some songs you may feel are essential to the wedding and others may be on a do-not-play list and are associated with negative memories. Band leaders and deejays are not mind readers. Give your band leader or deejay ample time to review your requests so that he or she has time to find a song that may not be in his or her collection.

--Dancing to long songs: Pay attention to a song’s length, and choose spotlight dance songs wisely.

Remember that guests will be watching you dance with parents or each other, and a five-minute song can seem never ending while others are waiting around. Avoid very long songs, as the mix of music should be upbeat.

The wedding isn’t the time to play “American Pie” by Don McClean, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” or Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird.”

Grooms-to-be face many decisions regarding their pending nuptials, but few may prove as delicate as choosing the groomsmen for the big day. Friends who expect to be groomsmen may be disappointed if they are not ultimately chosen, while brothers may feel left out if they are not asked to walk a bridesmaid up the aisle.

Choosing groomsmen should not be taken lightly. Groomsto-be who are facing some difficult choices with regard to that decision can follow a few pointers to ensure they make the right call.

--Pick a number. Before you even consider who you want your groomsmen to be, speak to your fiancé about how many bridesmaids she hopes to have. The number of groomsmen and bridesmaids typically matches, so your fiancé’s intentions may make your decision a lot easier. For example, if you have two brothers and several friends you’re considering, but your fiancé only intends to have a maid of honor and one bridesmaid, then you can just ask both of your brothers to serve as groomsmen. Friends are unlikely be offended if family members get the nod ahead of them, so discuss numbers with your fiancé before you begin trimming your list of candidates. If you already have an idea of who you want to be your groomsmen but your choices outnumber your fiancé’s, see if she has anyone else she can add to her party so no one is left out.

--Choose the best man for the job. Many grooms pick a brother to serve as their best man, and while that’s a nice sentiment, it’s important that grooms recognize that being a best man carries with it some responsibility. A best man will organize the bachelor party, give a toast at the wedding and handle any post-wedding duties, such as returning the tuxes or arranging for the newlyweds’ transportation to the airport.

If your brother is already incredibly busy or if you doubt he is up to the task of being a best man, then you might be better off asking him to be a groomsman and finding another best man who’s more capable of juggling the numerous responsibilities that come with being best man.

--Don’t forget your fiancé’s family. While you should not feel pressured to pick anyone in particular as your best man, if your fiancé has any brothers, ask her if she had her heart set on including any of them in the bridal party. Some brides want their brothers to be groomsmen, so discuss this with your fiancé before asking anyone to line up beside you. This discussion can go both ways as well, as you can ask your bride-to-be to include a favorite sister in her bridal party if you so desire.

--Confirm their availability. When asking friends or family members to be groomsmen, it’s best to ensure they can actually make it to the ceremony. This is a concern for grooms who are planning a destination wedding or those getting married in their fiancé’s hometown and not their own, as some guests, including potential groomsmen, may not be able to afford to attend an overseas or faraway ceremony.

When asking, explain the situation to them, and let them know you fully understand if they cannot commit to being a groomsman due to travel or financial concerns. Confirm their availability as soon as possible, as you don’t want to be down one groomsman come your big day. For those who you want • Aa Membe to be a groomsman but are unable to make it, it can be nice gesture to buy them a groomsmen gift as a token of your • Bridal Re appreciation for their friendship.

Many grooms face difficult decisions when choosing their groomsmen. But there are ways to make such decisions a lotfor a easier than they may seem.

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--Inappropriate lyrics and volume: Keep the music at an acceptable volume, and avoid songs with suggestive language or curse words that are inappropriate in a family setting.

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Once wedding vows and rings have couples think it might be fun to have want their bridal party members to been exchanged, many couples join each member of the wedding party enter in a more traditional way before their friends and family to celebrate enter with a different song. Not only the newlyweds do something more Court Armetaledramatic and humorous. with a wedding reception. ManyArthur will this take a• Wilton lot of coordination brides and grooms eagerly await the on the part of the deejay, but it can --Include the entrance in your moment when they can make their make the entrance choppy as well. planning. If you want to follow a grand entrance to the reception, Introductions go & more smoothly certain theme, such as “Star Wars” Oneida •may Reed Barton, and over the years it has become if couples have the entire wedding or “Mission Impossible,” coordinate customary for couples to make a party enter to a particular song that in advance with a deejay or band 903-389-3018 bit of a splash when makingOXO their • revs up the crowd and gets them members.

Talk about what, if any, Nordic-Ware • LeCreuset •www.accessoriesetcfairfield.com Henckel first appearance as husband and excited for the grand entrance. At props you plan to use and the type of wife. Some enter with a special the height of the song, the bride music that will be playing. If entrances song. Others prefer something a bit and groom will enter. The entrance involve choreography, be certain to Willow Tree Angels • Tyler Candles more theatrical. Explore these ideas typically segues into a couple’s first practice in advance of the wedding so for memorable wedding reception dance. everything will work out well and look entrances.

--Go with people’s strengths. A professional. However, even stunts Infant - 9showcase mos. special that go awry can be entertaining and --Catch guests by surprise. couple may want to Wedding guests will probably expect skills as they enter the reception hall. funny for guests. the wedding party to enter through a There’s no limit to what couples can --Low-key entrances are certain door and the bride and groom do, from acrobatic techniques to tap acceptable, too. Couples who to follow afterward. An element of dancing to juggling. If it’s entertaining, aren’t into much fanfare should not surprise, such as the couple rising it very well may prove memorable. feel pressured to make an entrance from the floor or appearing from a --Make sure everyone is on board. with a dance routine or to have any different area in the reception hall, Couples should recognize that some stunning visual effects. If you want may not require a lot of planning members of the wedding party may a low-key introduction, arrange for but can have a dramatic effect. be uncomfortable acting like clowns such an entrance with the emcee.

Unpredictable entrances also in front of a crowd. Do not force Wedding entrances are what a include unexpected song choices or anyone to participate in crazy antics couple makes of them, and they dramatic lighting to immediately draw if they do not want to. Find things can run the gamut from traditional everyone’s attention. each member of a wedding party introductions to theatrical skits and --Stick to one or two songs. Some feels comfortable doing. Couples may dance routines.

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Hidden Expenses that can Sink Your Wedding Budget In the days of yore, the responsibility of paying for a wedding fell to the bride’s parents. But that tradition has largely fallen by the wayside in recent years, when more and more couples have used their own savings to finance their weddings. Few couples enter the process of planning their weddings unaware of just how expensive weddings can get, but costs can easily begin to escalate if couples are not careful.

Couples know that certain wedding expenses, such as the cost of booking a reception hall, will eat up a large portion of their budgets. But there are some hidden expenses that couples must build into their budgets to avoid finding themselves in debt as they walk down the aisle as husband and wife.

--Taxes: Sales tax might not seem so significant when you’re buying everyday items, but the taxes add up quickly when paying for a wedding. Depending on where you live, state and local sales tax can exceed 9 percent in the United States, and some Canadians pay as much as 15 percent in combined sales taxes depending on where they live. Before signing contracts with any vendors, couples should get the price including sales tax written into their contracts, as failing to do so may result in a several thousand dollar surprise when the time to pay up arrives.

--Gratuities: Gratuities are another potentially hefty expense that often takes engaged couples by surprise as they start to plan their weddings. Some reception halls build gratuities for staff into their estimates, and these tips for the staff can be as high as 25 percent at some venues. But even if gratuities for reception hall staff are already accounted for, don’t forget to include tips for additional vendors the day of the wedding. Couples may be expected to tip the florist, photographer, band or deejay and even the reception hall maitre d’ if his or her gratuity is not included in the aforementioned staff tip. Brides-to-be typically tip their hairstylist and makeup artist on the day of the wedding as well.

--Postage: Couples who plan to invite guests via email or online invitations can skirt the cost of postage. But many couples still prefer traditional paper invitations, which include return envelopes that tradition suggests should also be stamped. Save-the-date cards have grown in popularity as well, and these cards must also be stamped and mailed. Depending on the size of your guest list, postage can cost several hundred dollars before you mail your last invitation. And don’t forget to save some money for postage to mail thank-you cards once the big day has come and gone.

--Overtime: Overtime fees for reception hall staff and additional outside vendors are typically written into contracts, but few couples imagine needing more than the predetermined allotment of time noted in their contracts. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, as unanticipated events such as a misplaced wedding license or heavy traffic on the way to the venue can force the party to start late and thus extend past its deadline. Set aside some money for overtime so you don’t find yourselves scrounging for dollars or charging the extra few hundred dollars on your credit cards.

Weddings are expensive, and even more so when hidden fees start to make their presence felt. Couples who build such fees into their budgets will find it easier to avoid breaking the bank than those who don’t.

Choosing a Wedding Photography Package --Engagement photoshoot: Couples who want to do an engagement photoshoot may want to negotiate such a shoot into their photography package. Some agencies include engagement shoots in their packages while others do not. If the engagement photoshoot is on your list of needs, then look for an agency that provides such services as part of its packages or agencies willing to include the engagement photoshoot for free or for an added fee.

--Party size: The number of people on the guest list should factor into your choice of wedding photographer. If your guest list is especially large, then you might want to consider hiring two or more photographers to document the day. Many agencies offer separate packages for couples who want one photographer and couples who prefer two or more photographers, so it pays to examine the price differences between such packages to see if more than one photographer can fit into your budget. Couples with relatively small guests lists can typically get by with just a single photographer to document their ceremonies and receptions.

--Travel: When discussing a wedding photography package, ask how much travel is included in the package. This is important for couples whose ceremonies are in a separate location from their receptions. If the distance between the ceremony site and the reception venue is considerable, you may have to pay extra for the photographer to travel between both sites.

While a reasonable amount of travel is typically included in a photography package, it’s best that you confirm this prior to signing an agreement.

The Many Ways to Recycle or Repurpose a Wedding Gown Brides want to look their best on their wedding days.

In addition to professional hairstyling and makeup, many brides invest in extravagant wedding gowns.

Estimates suggest the average wedding gown costs $2,000. Brides who indulge by purchasing a designer dress can pay upward of $5,000 for their gowns. But even the most expensive dress will only be worn once by the blushing bride. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways brides can reuse or recycle their wedding gowns.

Heirloom One of the easiest ways to get more from your gown is to pass it down to another bride after your wedding day. Brides frequently save and preserve their gowns with the intent of passing it down as an heirloom to a daughter or another family member. Maintain the beauty of the gown by hiring a professional dry cleaner or wedding gown preservation service to treat and package the gown before storing it for some lucky lady’s future use.

Religious outfit If you feel the style of the gown won’t keep up with the times, the fabric of the gown can be repurposed into a baptismal outfit or a communion dress or suit. Christian children are welcomed to the faith in white clothing, which is a symbol of purity and cleansing of sin. Seamstresses can fashion beautiful dresses or suits from original wedding gowns.

Play clothes Many little girls and boys like to play dress-up. And rather than have a gown sitting in the closet, use it to make play clothes for little ones. The gown can be turned into a dress for a fairy princess or an ice queen.

Ornaments or favors Lace from gowns can be turned into doilies, accents on other clothing, undergarments or decorative pieces for the home. A lace-covered lampshade can be a creative way to commemorate your wedding day for years to come.

Art Use the gown as a background for artwork. Simply stretch it across a wooden frame and staple on the back. You then have a handy canvas at the ready.

Nursery dÊcor Decorate a baby’s nursery with a portion of the wedding dress, which can be turned into a crib skirt or pillow. The dress can also be used to create frilly curtains. A white dress will blend with just about any pattern.

Anniversary tablecloth Measure out the length of a dining table, and cut and sew the gown into a special occasion tablecloth. Take it out each year on your anniversary.

Stuffed animals Present children with cozy friends that they can love for years. Cut out a pattern for a bunny or bear and use it to craft a stuffed toy from the gown. Visit a local craft shop for stuffing fill and buttons for eyes.

Donation Some less fortunate people cannot afford a gown. Work with a church or shelter and find out where you can donate the gown to be used by someone who normally would not wear something so lavish.

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Theater prop Many plays and musicals feature wedding scenes. An upstart theater company may benefit from having a wedding gown in their costume department.

Handkerchief Cut out a piece of the gown and sew the hem. Offer it as the “something old� or “something borrowed� for a loved one’s wedding.

Wedding gowns do not need to be relegated to a closet once a bride has said “I do.� Turn that dress into something useful for years to come.

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Transportation Tips: Getting to and from Your Wedding Transportation can be easily overlooked when couples plan their weddings.

Couples may recognize they may have to hire a car or limousine to get them to their ceremonies and then their receptions, but what happens when the limousine calls it a night?

While some couples immediately depart for their honeymoons after saying good-bye to their wedding guests, many build a day in between the wedding and honeymoon, giving them a chance to rest, take stock of their wedding gifts and finish packing. That leaves the question of how a couple will return home from the reception or get to the airport.

The best man may offer to drive the bride and groom where they need to go. But if the best man is from out of town, he may not have a chariot awaiting to escort the newly christened husband and wife to the airport.

As a result, all members of the wedding party should discuss their post-wedding travel plans in advance. Any person who will be arriving in a hired car will need to make arrangements to have their own vehicle available at the end of the wedding or be able to call a taxi or car service to get a safe ride home. Some wedding party members may decide to park a car at the reception site or a hotel the day prior to the wedding so they will have a return ride. It’s also a good idea to ask friends or family members who are not in the bridal party for a ride home.

Safety is an utmost concern after the wedding. Even if wedding party members have a car available, no one should drive when intoxicated.

Couples may want to include the phone number of a local taxi service in their hotel gift bags just to be safe.

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Did You Know?

Origins of the Word: Honeymoon There are various theories as to the origin of the word “honeymoon.”

One such theory suggests the word traces its origins to the Old English phrase “hony moone,” which suggests the honeymoon was initially steeped in cynicism.

“Hony” is a reference to honey and, the theory suggests, refers to the strong feelings of affection and sweetness newly married couples harbor and display for each other.

However, “moone” is a reference to how fleeting this period of time is and how it is likely to change as quickly as the moon changes.

One rosier theory as to the origin of the word “honeymoon” suggests the word dates back to the fifth century, when calendars were based on the moon cycle.

During this period, newly married couples drank mead (which accounts for the “honey”) throughout their first month of marriage (or for a full cycle of the moon), as mead was a beverage many believed to be an aphrodisiac.

Modern Trends

Some videographers will edit portions of the ceremony and preparations for the big day in the time between the ceremony and reception. This gives all guests, including those who may not have been able to make the ceremony, the chance to view the nuptials.

--Unobtrusive technology: This trend relates to the equipment used to capture wedding memories rather than the actual finished product.

No one wants their view of the ceremony or reception to be marred by a big, bulky camera.

Smaller video cameras enable videographers to seamlessly blend in and perhaps capture shots that larger cameras could not.

Preserving wedding memories takes on new meaning when couples explore the growing collection.

However, few trends in wedding videos. people want the stark reality _____________________ of a high-definition camera that highlights every flaw.

--Film chapters: Dividing segments of the video into different chapters allows viewers to fast forward to the parts they want to see and pass those they can skip. This saves the hassle of having to watch the video in its entirety.

--Cinematic styling: Instead of a stationary camera on a tripod, this method of filming incorporates different angles and close-up shots to give the video a modern feel. It’s shot more like a movie than a documentary, allowing viewers to feel as though they’re really experiencing the event.

--Artistic, indy feel: Film buffs may want a wedding video that breaks the mold.

Ask videographers to create something that would fit in at the Sundance or Tribeca film festivals.

--Same-day editing: Want to revisit the ceremony at your wedding reception?

in Wedding Videography A couple’s wedding day is often a whirlwind for the bride- and groom-tobe. Happy couples hope to remember every little detail, but that can be difficult when so much is going on. That is why many brides and grooms hire videographers to preserve the memories of their weddings.

A professional videographer can be a wise investment.

Today’s wedding videos have come a long way from their poorly produced predecessors.

Gone are the potentially cheesy soundbites and elevator music. Many of today’s videos are artfully edited and highly cinematic productions that could have couples wishing they were viewing videos in theaters.

The following are some wedding video trends popular among today’s couples.

--Brief clips and highlights: Few people want to sit through their entire wedding day frame-by-frame.

Montages of key elements of the day are much more popular than a chronological unfolding of the ceremony and reception.

Some videographers like to show snippets of what’s to come at the start of the wedding video, then go into more extensive segments later on.

--Special filters or film: Filters and lighting effects can give a wedding video an entirely different feel. For example, filming in 8mm can lend a grainy touch to the video and make it seem ethereal or even part of a home movie

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Hot Trends in Wedding Cuisine Once a couple has officially tied the knot, the newly recognized man and wife and all of their guests will retire to a party room where they can mingle, dance and enjoy a good meal.

In the past, standard fare like prime rib and roasted chicken dominated wedding menus.

But today’s weddings cater to people of various culinary tastes, and couples and their

guests can expect more upscale and creative cuisine to be rolled out for wedding receptions. The following are a handful of the more popular trends with regard to wedding cuisine.

Miniature bites Many people say good things come in small packages, and when it comes to miniature versions of favorite foods, they may be right. Instead

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of large meals that fill guests up fast, they can munch on smaller bites of their favorite dishes. How about a piece of meatloaf topped with whipped mashed potatoes? A cherry tomato with a small piece of mozzarella cheese makes a mini caprese salad. Turning favorite foods into bite-sized adventures can add a touch of whimsy to the reception.

Breakfast for dinner Some couples are circumventing high price tags for their weddings by choosing to hold the festivities at less expensive times of day.

Brunch-themed weddings are a big hit with those who would much rather dine on a stack of pancakes than a dish of pasta.

Omelet stations, croissants and a bevy of other breakfast table fare can be enjoyed any time of the day.

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Dim sum Dim sum allows guests to sample different foods without filling up. Carts of dumplings and other small plates of appetizers can be wheeled around so everyone can choose what they want and what they want to avoid.

Gourmet comfort food People love familiar comfort foods, but now gourmet comfort foods are shaking up wedding receptions. Macand-cheese with gouda and brie or chicken pot pie with a puff-pastry crust are a few offerings that can add glamour to down-home cooking.

Food with a show Instead of passed foods or buffet stations, couples are opting to make food an experience for guests. An oyster bar with a chef serving fresh seafood or a dessert master whipping up flambŽ

is a feast for the eyes and mouth.

Interesting buffet stations Keep guests on their toes with various meal stations. A bountiful display of artisanal cheeses, fruits and breads will be a cheese lover’s dream.

These stations also can be appetizing focal points around the room and ensure all guests get a bite of what they like best.

Family style Rustic and informal weddings have grown in popularity.

Rather than food being brought to the guests or participants lining up in buffet lines, family-style dining allows guests to share conversation and pass the peas at the same time. Larger, rectangular tables allow more guests to sit with one another and serve themselves food from

community plates located in the center of the tables.

Food and beverage pairings Food-forward wedding couples are offering guests mouthwatering appetizers matched with a cocktail. A slider and a craft beer or a dumpling and a shot of saki are examples of this trend.

Nontraditional “fake” cakes Instead of a multi-tiered cake or the cupcake fad that is starting to fizzle, couples are now opting for something new. Desserts that mimic the look of cake, but aren’t quite that combination of sponge and frosting are trending.

Crepes, pies, cookies, and doughnuts are acceptable and can add a creative spark to the cake-cutting ceremony.

When offered along with dessert stations, guests can certainly get their fill of sweet delights.

Vegan and gluten-free options Chances are one or more people attending the reception will be on a restricted diet.

Rather than relegate these guests to dining on side dishes and patchwork meals, certain couples are building entire offerings around vegan and gluten-free foods.

Couples are getting creative with their food and beverage offerings at their weddings.

Guests never know which culinary wonders they will encounter as they gather to wish the newlyweds well. _____________________

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Deer Processing, Cattle Domestic Hog & Wild Hog, Hardwood Smoked Sausage, Summer Sausage, Snack Sticks and Jerky available year round!

All made with USDA inspected meats

936-396-9300

EXTENDED HOURS - Open 7 Days A Week During Deer Season M - F 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Rutherford Tree Service

Rutherford Tree Service TREE REMOVAL & PLANTING LOT CLEARING STUMP GRINDING BUCKET TRUCKS & OPERATOR FOR RENT *OTVSFE #POEFE

Bobby “Bubba” Rutherford, Jr.

903-388-4472 903-389-3528 3528 “A Cut Above the Competition”

Carroll Lumber Company 208 S. 5th Avenue, Teague, Texas

Bus. 254-739-2071 *** Fax 254-739-3549

New Home Construction Kelly Moore Paint - Remodeling bobbyrutherfordjr@gmail.com Clint Skinner, Owner carrolllumber@sbcglobal.net

Privacy Fenced With Key Code Gate

Texas

BUDGET INN FREE HIGH SPEED INTERNET FREE Continental Breakfast Low Daily & Weekly Rates

903-391-1191

An RV’s Home Away From Home!

ELECTRICAL

35 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN FREESTONE COUNTY Free Estimates Reasonable Prices

Primrose RV Park

AL JOHNSON

House Leveling Specialist PAINTING Primrose RV Park Primrose RV Park CABINETS HAUL AWAY BRUSH Primrose RV Park

REMODELING ADDITIONS PLUMBING TREE TRIMMING

DANNY COCKERELL ROOFING

625 W. 2nd Ave., Corsicana, TX

Roofing - All Types All Phases of Construction Building & Remodeling Trenching, Back Hoe & Brush Hog Demolition Painting & Texturing House Leveling Electrical

The Wortham Store Full Stock of:

CLA Estate Planning Workshop is planned for February 10th from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Buffalo, Texas.

The workshop provides information on estate and retirement planning: pros and cons of wills and trusts; how to avoid probate; long term health care concerns; tax reduction planning.

Guests will receive a free workbook.

RSVP to 1-866-252-8721. __________________________________________________________

LIQUOR, BEER & WINE Hours: Mon-Sat 10am - 9pm FM 27 & Hwy. 14 (corner)

254-765-3488

PACK’S BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICE

CALL 4 COMPUTERS Visit our NEW location!!

“Providing quality service since 1976”

Repair/Upgrades Networking Custom Built Systems Consulting

206 S. 13th | Teague, Texas 75860 254-739-3735 or 903-388-7122

INCOME TAX SERVICE BOOKKEEPING SERVICE Individuals Partnerships Corporations Trusts Estates ●

●

●

●

19 Years Experience Rod Norton

(903) 389-6942 211 West Main St, Fairfield (behind Rutherford Auto)

120 CR 947 • Teague, TX 75860

A Cut Above Satellite Rural High Speed Internet

24 Hour Road Service

“Serving the area since 1994” 903-322-3181 800-606-3181 Houston, Dallas or 903-388-2285

New & Used, Recaps - Wheels - Wholesale Tires

Waco Channels Available

ACutAboveSatellite.GetDish.com

Truck/Car/Farm Minor Mechanic Work

After Hours: 254-640-2481

TLT #1 Mexia 254-562-2070

TLT #2 Hwy 84 E. Fairfield 254-203-3401

TLT #3 TLT #4 Hwy 84 Mexia Buffalo 254-562-2811 254-747-3028

ANDERSON COUNTY LIVESTOCK AUCTION Sale Every Wednesday at 12:00

web site: www.andersoncountylivestock.com

(903)764-1919 • Fax (903)764-1918 Randy Lowery, owner 936-414-0993

Danny Turner 903-724-9214

-Farm/Ranch-

2-D

Anderson County Livestock Auction Report Danny Turner 254-739-5971 903-724-9214

Hwy 19 & FM 294 Elkhart, Texas (903) 764-1919

Randy Lowery 936-876-5725 936-414-0993

www.andersoncountylivestock.com SALE EVERY WEDNESDAY - 12 NOON Receipts from Anderson Livestock Auction showed a total of 372 head of cattle sold on January 21, 2015 with 33 buyers and 61 sellers.

Trend of Market: Steady Steers 200-300 lbs-----------------------------------255-385 300-400 lbs-----------------------------------242-377 400-500 lbs-----------------------------------235-295 500-600 lbs-----------------------------------227-275 600-700 lbs-----------------------------------200-230 700-800 lbs-----------------------------------180-205 Heifers 200-300 lbs-----------------------------------240-365 300-400 lbs-----------------------------------230-290 400-500 lbs-----------------------------------227-277 500-600 lbs-----------------------------------215-243 600-700 lbs-----------------------------------195-233 700-800 lbs-----------------------------------165-201 Slaughter Slaughter Cows--------------------------------80-118 Slaughter Bulls-------------------------------105-135 Stocker Cows & Pairs Stocker Cows----------------------------875-2400.00 Pairs-------------------------------------1325-2400.00 Goats

By Their Head-----------------------------45-150.00 This report is a GUIDE only. It is provided to show market trends and is not inflated to deceive Producers or the general public.

Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Inc. Russell L deCordova Cody deCordova Ty deCordova P.O. Box Drawer P, Buffalo, Texas 75831 (903) 322-4940

SALE EVERY SATURDAY - 12 NOON Receipts from Buffalo Livestock Marketing showed a total of 561 cattle January 24, 2015 with 103 sellers and 41 buyers.

Slaughter Cows Cutter Cows-------------------------------------95-110 Fat Cows-----------------------------------------90-106 Canner Cows--------------------------------------60-95 Slaughter Bulls Heavy Bulls-------------------------------------110-135 Light Bulls--------------------------------------105-125 Pairs Choice Pairs------------------------------------------N/T Good Pairs-----------------------------------2000-2700 Plain Pairs-----------------------------------1100-1900 Bred Cows 3-6 yr old----------------------1250-2650 Steer/Bull Calve & Yearlings 150-200 lbs-------------------------------------320-375 200-300 lbs-------------------------------------300-375 300-400 lbs-------------------------------------275-345 400-500 lbs-------------------------------------245-315 500-600 lbs-------------------------------------225-265 600-700 lbs-------------------------------------205-223 700-800 lbs-------------------------------------195-205 Heifer Calves & Yearlings 150-200 lbs-------------------------------------300-350 200-300 lbs-------------------------------------275-335 300-400 lbs-------------------------------------245-310 400-500 lbs-------------------------------------215-270 500-600 lbs-------------------------------------195-265 600-700 lbs-------------------------------------185-200 700-800 lbs-------------------------------------165-205 These prices reflect the GOOD and CHOICE cattle, and the plainer cattle would be 15 to 20 dollars behind these figures.

2316 Marlin Hwy. 6 East • Office 254-753 3191 • Office 254-753-3191

Jody Thomas 254-223-2958 ard Waco, TX 76705

Mexia Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet Feb. 7th The Mexia Chapter of Ducks Unlimited will be holding its annual banquet on February 7, 2015 at the Cowboy Club on Highway 14 South of Mexia.

Refreshments will begin at 5:00 with dinner at about 6:30.

The Chapter will be giving away 100 or more firearms.

This year’s banquet will include raffle items, a silent auction and a live auction. There is a 50 GUN raffle, Duck Yahtze and many more fun games.

The live auction will include: a Helicopter Hog Hunt, a Duck Hunt for 2 in Argentina, a Hunt at the Tonkoway Ranch (near Bryan), and a Tejun Crawfish

Boil.

There be a special area for “Greenwings” (kids under 17) with lots of activities for prizes.

Ticket prices are: EARLY PURCHASE: Singles $60, $100 couple and $40 for Greenwings.

AFTER 1/31/15: Singles $85, $125 couple and $40 for Greenwings.

TICKETS ARE LIMITED, so call IVAN at 254-562-3112 or go by Jackson’s True Value. In Groesbeck, see Roy Defriend at Limestone County Courthouse.

Come Out For a Really Good Time!!! ______________________

Goats 9:00 a.m. SALE EVERY TUESDAY Cattle 12:00 p.m.

Receipts from Waco Livestock Auction showed a total of 879 head of cattle sold on January 20, 2015.

No. 1 Steers Under 300 lbs--------------------------------325-390 300-400 lbs-----------------------------------285-350 400-500 lbs-----------------------------------250-290 500-600 lbs-----------------------------------230-265 600-700 lbs-----------------------------------220-250 700-800 lbs-----------------------------------200-220 No. 1 Heifers Under 300 lbs--------------------------------250-325 300-400 lbs-----------------------------------250-325 400-500 lbs-----------------------------------240-275 500-600 lbs-----------------------------------220-250 600-700 lbs-----------------------------------190-220 700-800 lbs-----------------------------------180-205 Slaughter Cows High Yielding----------------------------------105-118 Low Yielding--------------------------------90 to 100 Fats-----------------------------------------105 to 115 Thin & Shelly---------------------------------75 to 90 Packer Bulls (1250-2075 lbs) Yield Grade 1&2 -------------------------110 to 136 Cow & Calf Pairs Young Choice--------------------------2500 to 3050 Young Fair------------------------------2250 to 2500 Aged Pairs------------------------------1850 to 2250 Young Pregnancy Test Stocker Replacement Cows 1350 to 2650 Sale Every Tuesday

Groesbeck Auction & Livestock Co.

LIVESTOCK AUCTION, LLC

Bill Hughes Don Henderson Stephen Bradley Bradley Harryman (903) 626-4651 (254) 385-6460 (254) 716-1535 (254) 315-8232

SALE EVERY THURSDAY - 12 NOON

FREESTONE COUNTY

XTO Energy Inc. has recompleted the Craig Gas Unit Lease, Well No. 4 in Freestone County. The well is 4.6 miles NW of Donie, Texas, in the Freestone (Travis Peak) Field.

The well has a total depth of 13,054 ft. with producing intervals of 8,577 ft. and 9,010 ft. and is on 128.67 acres of the Sam R. Craig Survey, Abstract 158. It produces 1.108 million CF of gas per day on a 30/64 inch choke.

Freestone County Oil & Gas Report Sponsored by:

-6#3*$"/54

K.D. Timmons, Inc. 200 S. Fairway Fairfield, TX

620 S. Elm Madisonville, TX

(903) 389-2159

(936) 348-6071

FSA Announces New for Disaster Relief Assistance Yield Data for Safety K.D. Timmons, Inc. Net Calculations

Waco, Texas 76705 Jody Thomas- 254-223+29501

Waco, TX 76705 Jody Thomas 254-223-2958

OILREPORT & GAS

Deadline Set

JANUARY 30, 2015, is that January 30 deadline the deadline to apply for -- to visit your local Farm assistance if you suffered Service Agency office to file qualifying disaster related an application for payment/ livestock or grazing losses compensation. between October 1, 2011 Learn more on the web and December 31, 2014. at disaster.fsa.usda.gov. Or The Livestock Indemnity call your local FSA county Program and the Livestock office.

Forage Program were Don’t wait; act today! reauthorized by the 2014 This public service Farm Bill to provide relief announcement was brought to ranchers Waco Stockyard impacted by to you by the USDA Farm drought, blizzards and other Agency.

Waco, Service TX 2316JodyMarlin Hwy.254-223-2958 6 East Thomas natural disasters.

You have ____________________ 76705 just a few more days -- until

Waco Livestock Auction,LLC. Waco Stockyard

2316 Marlin Hwy. 6 East Office 254-753-3191

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Reflections from Red Oak Ranch

Freestone County, Texas

by Jan Fielden

This little event has happened to us before…another time…another cow…and even a horse! Some cows are just more curious than others are and some horses are more confident than others are. The Colonel took “Ole Blue” out of the barn and forgot to close the barn door. Several years ago, Sable, our first Buckskin horse, walked into the open barn, took the lid off her oats and ate her fill. The other cow that walked in just checked everything out and never found anything to her liking.

After those experiences, we always close the door… except this once.

Well, now we have a goggle eyed cow that just cannot help herself. She is so curious she wants to look in everything and every place. The door was open and so she walked right in. Being the observant kind, she found the bag of cubes that was open and setting on the floor.

I had finished feeding the horses and was on my way to the house. Coming up the drive I looked to see if the barn door was closed and no it wasn’t and what is that standing in the barn? That’s a cow with her head all the way down in the bag of cubes! I jumped out of the truck and ran down there yelling the whole way at her and of course she didn’t hear a thing. She was so busy eating more than she needed of cubes! When I got to the door of the barn and yelled at her, she turned and looked at me as if to say, are you talking to me? The cow walked out of the barn as if nothing untoward had happened, stopped about 3 feet from the door, turned around and just stared as I closed the door!

I have no doubt this cow will find something else to explore. Ahhh…life at the Red Oak Ranch!!

U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini offers farmers new information to update program payment yields that will help them better select protections offered by the Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs. The new programs, established by the 2014 Farm Bill, are cornerstones of the commodity farm safety, offering farmers protection when market forces cause substantial drops in crop prices and revenues.

“The Farm Bill provided landowners with the option of updating their farm program payment yields. This is the first time that many producers have been able to update yields since 1986,” said Dolcini. “We’ve worked with the Risk Management Agency to make available certified yield data that producers can use to better calculate how the new safety net programs can offer the best protection against market swings.”

Producers can check with their local FSA county office to see if data is available for them. This data belongs to the producer and only the producer associated with the crop insurance records will be provided this service.

Updating yield history or Tree can reallocating base acres occur until Feb. 27, 2015.

FSA also issued a reminder

200 S. Fairway Fairfield, TX

that from Nov. 17, 2014, to (903) 389-2159 March 31, 2015, producers will make a one-time election of either ARC or PLC for the 2014 through 2018 crop years. For more information, producers are encouraged to make an appointment to go into their local FSA county office. To find a local FSA county office, visit www.offices.usda.gov.

Additional information on the new programs is available at www.fsa.usda.gov/arc-plc.

These programs were made possible through the 2014 Farm Bill, which builds on historic economic gains in rural America over the past five years, while achieving meaningful reform and billions of dollars in savings for the taxpayer.

Since enactment, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has made significant progress to implement each provision of this critical legislation, including providing disaster relief to farmers and ranchers; strengthening risk management tools; expanding access to rural credit; funding critical research; establishing innovative public-private conservation partnerships; developing new markets for rural-made products; and investing in infrastructure, housing and community facilities to help improve quality of life in rural America.

For more information, visit www.usda.gov/farmbill. ____________________

Buffalo Livestock Marketing

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Join us for a FREE Steak Dinner under a Texas Size Tent & Support on-going part of our Western Heritage-----the youth of Texas High School Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 7:00 P.M.

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Hwy. 75/79 Intersection Buffalo, Texas 75831

FREE CORNETT FINANCIAL, LLC Wealth Management

Receipts from Groesbeck Auction & Livestock Co. LLC showed 541 head G. Art Cornett, CFP of cattle on Thursday, January 22, 2015 with 80 sellers and 33 buyers.

Registered Investment Advisor Rep Boner-----------------------------------------------110-115 900 West Commerce Boner-----------------------------------------------100-105 P.O. Box 278 Breaker------------------------------------------------93-97 Fairfield, TX 75840 IRA Rollovers Phone: 903-389-8503 Canner Cows-----------------------------------------87-92 Fax: 903-389-8504 Thin---------------------------------------------------81-86 Retirement Income Planning Bulls Yield Grade 1 & 2 -------------------------137-140 Investments & Insurance Art@CornettFinancial.com Bulls Yield Grade 3 & 4 -------------------------130-136 Managed Fee-Based Accounts www.CornettFinancial.com Stocker Cows me adjustments and corrections as well, since Judy is actually Jody. Sorry about Young Bred Cows------------------------------2200-3300 sticky note from anPlain employee who has since moved on.

Older Bred-------------------------------1400-1700 Good Choice Pairs-----------------------------2200-3000 ections as you Common see fit. Medium Pairs-----------------------1700-2100 Stocker & Feeder Calves & Yearlings Steers Good & Choice e us to begin running this ad in this week’s issue that we are currently working 300-400 lbs----------------------------------------330-365 400-500 lbs----------------------------------------285-310 500-600 lbs----------------------------------------265-280 600-700 lbs----------------------------------------240-265 Christy Jackson Heifers Good & Choice Freestone County Times 300-400 lbs----------------------------------------280-350 903-389-6397 NEWS 400-500 lbs----------------------------------------240-305 500-600 lbs----------------------------------------220-275 Wealth Management 600-700 lbs----------------------------------------210-260 G. Ar t Co r ne tt , CF P #2 & #3 type calves & yearlings $.10 - $.30 CWT lower.

Registered Investment Advisor Rep

Please call

High School Rodeo

Free Estimates

Rutherford Tree Service

903-388-4472 903-389-3528 *OTVSFE #POEFE

Bobby “Bubba” Rutherford, Jr. “A Cut Above the Competition”

Advertising is the lifeline bobbyrutherfordjr@gmail.com that keeps your community newspaper in the business of 120 CR 947 • Teague, TX 75860 reporting local news.

We encourage all of our COR NE T T F INA NCIA L , L L advertisers C readers to let know that you saw them in The “Times”

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

-Home/Health-

3-D

Bob “Rowdy” Dowdy Raises the Bar for Next Generations At 91 years of age, Bob “Rowdy” Dowdy, with a great sense of humor, has made quite a positive difference to his family, friends, community, church, and country.

Two days after Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7, 1941, he and two other Milby High School classmates quit school and joined the Marines.

Bob found himself in the Pacific Theatre for 34 months. He was part of the first offensive landing in the Pacific in World War II at Guadalcanal and two other offensive landings.

At least one mishap, involving enemy transports, resulted in the narrow escape of his life.

While serving in the Marine Corp, a pretty young woman obtained his address from a friend and began writing to

him. They wrote back and forth over a period of time, but had not met.

Home on leave in Houston, Texas, Joyce Louise Ivy and Robert Franklin Dowdy met for the first time.

They married on January 26, 1946 and had three sons: Robert Earl, Bruce Wayne and Thomas Joe Dowdy.

The boys married and gave the couple 8 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and even one great-great grandchild.

Bob spent 24 years as a Houston Police Office, assigned mostly to the Park Place Sub-station in Southeast Houston.

As a rookie, he was part of a detail trying to get a suspect out of a building.

As the others were formulating a plan, he snuck

Individuals Appointed, New Court Date for Freestone County Commissioners With Commissioners attending a conference on February 18, 2014, the bimonthly regular February meeting of Commissioners Court has been scheduled two days earlier for Monday, February 16th at the regular time, 9:00 a.m., as decided at the January 21, 2015 meeting.

Treasurer Kay Taylor announced that all work on the phone/internet installation project has been completed.

During the installation, some corporate employees asked for assistance for such things as setting up voice mail.

Since the project has been completed, offices requesting assistance will be required to obtain a purchase order and will be charged for the service going forward.

Commissioner Precinct 4, Clyde Ridge, informed the Court that he will satisfy the TxDOT matching fund for Federal Off-System Bridge Program of $57,000 by repairing other bridges in his precinct.

The bridge, on County Road 930, is expected to take over a year to complete, according to Ridge.

The court approved the reappointment of County Auditor to Donna Lynn Williams for a two year term, beginning January 1, 2015 and ending December 31, 2016.

The Sheriff’s Office turned in a Racial Profiling report that contained 238 traffic stops, 166 of which were Caucasian individuals.

Constable Precinct 1, Buck Bonner, turned in a Racial Profiling Report that indicated two traffic stops had been made, with no

racial profiling.

Both Racial reports were accepted by the Court.

The 22 member Freestone County Historical Commission, chaired by Brad Pullin, was reappointed for 2015-2016 by Court action.

Bill payments, totaling $1,051,043.85, with budget amendments included, were approved for payment.

However, Treasurer Kay Taylor announced that she is sending a memo out advising that the Treasurer’s Department will be strictly adhering to the cut off time in place and will not be accepting bills turned in after that deadline for the current week’s payments.

Taylor explained that bill invoices are about 12 inches high each week. These have to be balanced out, approved by the Auditor, County Judge, and herself, before they are inputted into the system.

When an invoice comes in after cut-off, it cannot be simply added into the system, and has to be handled as a separate item for approval.

The Senior Services report, and Auditor and Treasurer’s December reports were approved as was the December 31, 2014 quarterly investment report with outstanding CDs totaling $7,545,149.79.

The minutes of the December 10th, 17th, and 23rd and the January 7th meetings were accepted.

Road use agreements for County Road 300 and 350 were approved.

Two educational certificates for Bill Madding and one for Donna Lynn Williams were accepted.

Mary McDonald reporting

Make a SPECTACLE of your business Advertise in the FREESTONE COUNTY TIMES

and SEE the results 903-389-NEWS (6397)

into the back of the building, and starting shouting, “Get him Rowdy; tear his leg off.”

Bob relayed that the “fella was so scared that he gave himself up.”

As a result, Rowdy became his nickname, and he kept it throughout his career.

Why was the make believe dog named Rowdy?

Bob shared that while they were in Guadalcanal, there was a dog that took a liking to his detail, but to him especially.

They called him, “Rowdy.”

“Rowdy hated the Japanese because they beat him. He would sniff them out and warn us if they were around.

He saved us many times,” Bob shared.

“When it was time to leave, someone snuck him on the ship,” Bob said with a twinkle in his eye.

Bob even invented a striping machine and started striping parking lots in Houston and surrounding areas. He later striped running tracks and football fields and traveled to several states doing this.

Eventually, the business took him to Mexico City and Saudia Arabia.

In 1974, the family moved to Joyce’s hometown of Fairfield, Texas.

They settled into the community and were active members of Cornerstone Baptist Church. He was a trustee; she taught Sunday School.

As the church population began to age and, with no children to fill the empty classrooms, Bob was instrumental in getting the building deeded over to River of Life Family Worship

Center.

“His wife [who passed away in 2008] had left him a letter asking that he do something for the children that were attending River of Life.

“He has helped in so many ways and is a blessing to us.

He comes to the Food Pantry every week to help or just hang out,” says Pastor Robert Smith of River of Life.

Because he left school to join World War II, he did not graduate from high school. In 2005, he was allowed to walk with the Milby High School graduates. His diploma was back dated to June 6, 1942.

He was fond of telling his grandchildren, “Study so it won’t take you 63 years to graduate.”

About six months ago, Bob was badly burned in his back yard. After driving himself

to the emergency room, he spent 35 days at Southwest Medical Center in Dallas.

“I appreciate it when people stop me and say, ‘Thank you for your service,’ but I have always thanked the doctors and nurses for all they do. The people at the Rehabilitation Center were especially good to me,” Bob stated.

Recently “The Retired Badge,” Official Publication of the Houston Police Retired Officers Association, chronicled some of the exploits of Bob’s life.

The “Times” expounded on that article and added information obtained from son, Thomas Dowdy.

Bob Dowdy, like many of the Greatest Generationers, raises the bar high for the next generations.

Mary McDonald reporting

-Public NoticesHOTCOG’s Annual Meeting

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January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Held in Freestone County

-PUBLIC NOTICES-

-PUBLIC NOTICES-

NOTICE OF HEARING PUBLIC NOTICE A public hearing will be held for parents and property owners of the Fairfield Independent School District on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. in the FHS Johnson Activity Center, North Lecture Room.

The purpose of the hearing is for discussion of the district’s annual report that includes the Texas Academic Performance Report 2013-14 (TAPR), campus performance objectives, a report of violent or criminal incidents, and information received under Texas Education Code 51.403 (e) from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

The hearing will be held in conjunction with the regular meeting of the FISD Board of Education. ________________________ NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters of Independent Administration for the Estate of David Gregory, Deceased, were issued on January 6, 2015 in Cause No. PR 8350, pending in the County Court of Freestone County, Texas, to: Samantha CammackTalley, whose residence is in Harris County, Texas.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: Jeffery A. Armstrong Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, PLLC P.O. Box 1470 Waco, Texas 76703-1470 DATED the 12th January, 2015

day

of

Jeffery A. Armstrong Attorney for David Gregory _________________________ Fairfield ISD is seeking E-Rate services for Funding Year 18 (July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016) All interested vendors please visit: http://www. sl.universalservice.org/menu. asp Form 470 Application Number: 739250001257461 Please review and submit bids/proposals for services listed on the RFP at https:// erate.esc12.net/R12/ __________________________

-PUBLIC NOTICES-

-PUBLIC NOTICES-

“We’re going on the road,” states Justin Lewis, Secretary/ Treasurer of Heart of Texas Council of Governments (HOTCOG), regarding the Annual Business Meeting being held for the first time in Fairfield, Texas on Thursday, January 22, 2015.

Mr. Lewis explained that the meetings are usually at the HOTCOG offices in Waco, Texas.

However, these will be held at different locations in the six county HOTCOG area in the future – Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone and McLellan Counties, with Freestone County being the first.

Judge Daniel Burkeen of Groesbeck, Texas gave the invocation.

Numerous dignitaries, from the various locations, were present.

Attending from Freestone County were Freestone County Commissioners, Bodie Emmons and Craig Oakes; Judge Linda Grant; Sheriff Don Anderson; FISD Trustee Kevin Benedict; and three Justices of the Peace: Theresa Farris, Deborah Hamilton, and Cinnamon Archibald.

President Kay Taylor, of Freestone County, welcomed everyone and attended to the business portion of the meeting.

Judge Penny Redington, Executive Director of Texas Association of Regional Councils (TARK), administered the Oath of Office to the 2015 Board Members (pictured above left). Kay Taylor and Judge Linda Grant were among those sworn in.

Students from Mart High School received special recognition for having entered a contest and won an emergency trailer from TARK. It was explained that the students will be able to use it for such things as providing a rest and rehydration area in an emergency.

Executive Director Russell Devorsky spoke on the new State Legislature.

“Every Texas Head of State office, expect the Speaker of the House, has a new person in the position,” says Devorsky.

Devorsky believes the true power lies with the lieutenant governor’s position, which is

now Dan Patrick.

Devorsky revealed that the first thing Lieutenant Governor Patrick did was to do away with the two-thirds rule (2/3 of Senate had to agree for a measure to pass) to becoming majority rule.

Devorsky feels this gives majority an unfair advantage.

“Who will step up to seize the power?

There are 8 fresh Senators and 80% of the House is new,” Devorsky wondered.

He also indicated that a lot of institutional knowledge left, as a result of the recent election.

Devorsky revealed that he believes the State will push taxes down to the local governing levels.

“If you ask a person to come speak, don’t do the whole speech before they can,” Judge Redington joked to Devorsky, who had just introduced her.

Indeed, much of her talk was similar to his.

“In the House, there are 98 Republicans, just 2 shy of having a super majority,” she revealed Judge Redington told HOTCOG that TARK will try to represent them to the 84th Legislation.

She revealed that Texas, if it were a nation, would have the 7th largest economy in the world.

She said that the Statue of Liberty would fit inside the State Capitol, and that it is 15 ft. taller than the US Capitol.

Judge Redington distributed TARK’s objectives to present to the 84th Legislation.

These deal with Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement, Community and Economic Development, Environmental Quality, Emergency Communications, Emergency Procedures, Health and Human Services, State Financial Assistance Grant and Transportation.

Outgoing President, Kay Taylor gave her farewell speech to the gathering.

Sam’s Restaurant catered the meal.

Before adjourning, twelve jars of Cooper Farms Peaches were given out as door prizes, which would seem the perfect item to represent Fairfield and Freestone County.

Mary McDonald reporting.

Weather Whys: January Thaw Q. This time of year, you hear about the “January Thaw.” What is it?

A: It’s a term that at one time was only considered folklore, but now we know there is some factual evidence to support it, says Brent McRoberts of Texas A&M University. ‘The ‘January Thaw’ refers to the period that often occurs around mid-January when cold temperatures take a break, and it is warm over much of the United States,” he explains. “This is often especially true in the upper Midwest and the Northeast, when snow is on the ground from very cold temperatures in the early part of January. Dips in the jet stream and other factors make mid-January a prime time for milder, and sometimes, way above normal temperatures, hence there is a ‘thaw’ that occurs over much of the country.”

Q: How long does the thaw last?

A: Not very long, McRoberts adds. “The typical January Thaw will only last a week or so, and then it’s right back to the cold temperatures,” he notes. “That’s because cold air masses – some of them arctic – are frequently pushing southward this time of year. We know that on average, Jan. 23 is typically one of the coldest days of the year, and the thaw often happens right around or after that day. This does not mean that all of the ice and snow are melted during the thaw, but very often there are temperatures 10 to 15 degrees above normal. And it’s true that a January Thaw does not happen every year, but it does happen at least 50 percent of the time in each decade, so a lot of people look forward to it.”

For more news about Texas A&M University, see http://today.tamu.edu/. Follow them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TAMU.

-Real Estate-

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

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#111 Fairfield- 3/2/2 Brick home built in 1985, 1820 sq.ft. per FCAD, gorgeous kitchen remodel with new hickory cabinets, granite, huge island that seats 8, wbfp, stainless steel appliances, cathedral ceiling in living room, engineered hardwood flooring and ceramic tile, second garage/workshop, +/-1.613 acre,

590 Fount Kirby St.

$209,000

3/2/2 brick home features a beautifully remodeled island kitchen with hickory cabinets, granite countertops with tile backsplash, brand new stainless steel appliances, engineered hardwood flooring, and recessed & track lighting. The split-level island seats eight and the kitchen is open to the living room with cathedral ceiling and wbfp. Two bedrooms share a hall bath with tub/shower combo. Both bedrooms have walk-in closets—one bedroom with two walk-ins. The master suite is located across the living room. It has a large bathroom with dual sink vanity and a tub/shower combo, and a huge walk-in closet. A covered back porch, 2nd garage/workshop, sidewalks in the front & back yards, and a paved driveway finish out this amazing home.

#28

Publisher’s Notice: REAll real estate advertised herein is subjected to the Federal DUCED! Fair Housing Act, which Teague-3/1 makes it illegal to advertise house, large “any preference, limitation storage building or discrimination because with shower, of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any preference, limitation or discrimination.”

We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

With close to one hundred listings to choose from, you’re sure to find one that will meet your needs. In addition to our own listings, we are happy to show any property listed with any real estate company.

-COMM. PROP. FOR LEASE-

-MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE-

Commercial property for lease. 2,640 sq.ft. located in Heritage Properties strip mall for $1,147/mo in Fairfield.

Contact Larry at 903-3898665 _________________________

3 bedroom 2 bath, nice kitchen and living room. Huge walkin closet master bedroom. $72,765. 903-328-6125. ________________________

-HOMES FOR SALE-

Fixer Upper for Sale. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 stall metal building on .95 acre of land located at 562 E. Reunion in Fairfield. $32,000 (no owner finance) call 903-875-6781.

Service! Selection! Savings! ________________________ Locally owned, good old fashioned values. House for Sale: 130 Bond St., FairfieldHomes.US 888-268- Fairfield. 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, 2385. office, large carport, fenced ________________________ backyard, storage building on corner lot. Brick, 1,400 sq. ft. $125,000. Will consider trading for land. 903-3884200. ________________________

-MOBILE HOME FOR RENT-

For Rent: 1 bedroom mobile home. No pets. 903-915-0107 or 903-389-6368 ________________________ Try it before you buy it!

3 bedroom 2 bath. $950 monthly, brand new units!

Good kitchen and living, open floor plan. Your choice of locations! 888-526-1551. ________________________

Give us a call today!

*Reduced! *Seller will pa **These 2

Selling Freestone & Leon County properties since 1981.

Schwab Realty, LLC is a Licensed Real Estate Broker

Phone: 903.536.2672

Toll Free: 800.671.2672

$3,900/AC Jewett: 9.62 Acres Scattered oak trees cover the land with road access on two sides. Very quiet, secluded and offers good hunting & recreation opportunity.Platinum Access to the utilities are at the road, this property Member Mobile Home for Rent 2 will not last long! $119,000 Centerville: A beautiful well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 Bedroom/1 Bath. Located in car garage home located in the quiet Adkisson Acres Subdivision. The Streetman area. Contact A.V. home is approx. 1,400 sq. ft. of heated/cooled living space and was built at 903-599-3352 in 1986. There is a large and spacious living room, the breakfast area SOLD With close to one hundred listings to choose from, you’re sure to find one that will meet your needs. In addition________________________ to our own listings, we are happy to show joins any property listedand with real estate company. the kitchen allany bedrooms have plenty of closet space. The large backyard is completely fenced and ready for pets. Located in town, close to all the schools and churches, city utilities! Great home to raise a family HOMES Make and appointment to come see this today! $155,000 Leona: 10 acres with a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home on pier and beam. Land is mostly wooded with scattered openings. A really nice 30x30 metal shop, insulated on a slab, 13x36 three stall pole barn, 12x18 Deb Manahan storage building and a 300 ft. water well. Home has approx. 2,000 sq. ft. (per owner) of living space and was built in 2002. A beautiful spiral stair 903-879-2441 (Cell) case leads to the upstairs bedroom, over sized master bedroom with large Bodie Emmons Corey Hale closet and custom cabinets in the kitchen. Located in Centerville ISD. 254-717-4174 903-879-5168 MOTIVATED SELLER, REDUCED!!! $129,900 Centerville 2.05 Acres 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with an office.

HOMES Home was built in 2012 with 1,500 sq. ft. of living area and features an 3B/2B/2G Brick with beautiful landscaping #1313 $159,500 open floor plan with a spacious kitchen and living room. Beautiful Streetman: 3B/2B/2G beautiful brick home with large yard and picket fence in front and privacy fence in back #315 $117,500 laminate hardwood flooring covers the floor with oversized utility room 4 B, 2 B 2 CARPORT BRICK home on 1 acre. lots of extras #555 $215,000 and office. A 10x20 storage building is also included. With beautiful 3B/2B MH on 10 wooded acres with storage buildings, chicken coops, fruit trees and water well $70,000 landscaping, towering oak trees and few neighbors you are guaranteed NEW LISTING: 2 Lakefront lots in The Wilderness with 3B/2.5B/2 bilevel, brick home, relaxation. This property backs up to a large ranch and has easy access to & 2 boat slips #305 $580,000 NEW LISTING: 5 Bedroom/2.5 Bath/2 car garage, brick home in Fairfield, needs Hwy. 7. Located in Centerville ISD. SOLD!!!

3 Bedroom/2 Bath updating, but priced accordingly SOLD #383 $110,000 $199,000 19.31 Acres Centerville: +/-20 wooded acres that provide the 4.99 Acres + Pool NEW LISTING: 3/2/2 carport beautiful custom brick in the country on 8 (+/-) acres. outdoor enthusiast with some of the greatest hunting and fishing Open living area, split bedroom design, tile floors, fp, large sunroom, stone patio, Pretty, ranch-style home on beautifully landscaped with gazebo, community water and water well, metal shop, and opportunities in east Texas. Property includes a Western Cedar 2 bedroom barn with pipe fence.Call for appointment #833 $275,000 acreage with paved roads, 1 bathroom home with a metal roof, artesian water well with a brand new ACREAGE freshly updated, nice pool pressure tank, screened in front and back porches with washer and dryer 40 (+/-) Wooded Acres in Waller/Hockley Area #515 hook ups in the mud room. The floor plan is open, with a large kitchen with beautiful view, barn with 13 Wooded Acres great getaway SOLD #2400 $45,000 NEW LISTING: 10 Wooded Acres close to town on PR 917 #495 with newly installed granite counter tops, back splash and tile floors, stalls and fenced pasture. Great for horses and show animals. large living area and all inside furniture appliances convey with home.

LOTS This is a great place for rural living not too far from town.

2 LOTS in West Main Place Addition #1230 Trails run through the property providing recreational opportunities for COMMERCIAL family and friends. Other features include a three stall enclosed pole barn 1.5 ACRES on Hwy 75 in Dew #2080 $15,000 with overhang, a 12x18 storage building and newer septic system.

RV PARK 15 rv, 5 full trailer setups on 2.46 acres, city utilities $255,000 Beautiful hardwood trees cover the land and Keechi Creek runs along the LOT AT 521 E. COMMERCE .60 acre #717 $60,000 6.69 ACRES on Hwy 84 and FCR 941 #8058 $60,000 east boundary line and provides great sand bass fishing in the spring time.

4.52 ACRES ON HWY 84 & FCR 471 #220 $60,000 The property is fenced on three sides with lots of wildlife including deer, hogs, squirrels, and bobcats. If you are looking for privacy, solitude and Photos available at http://www.landsoftexas.com/member/8956 Libby Harris, Realtor great hunting this is the place for you! SOLD!!!

Platinum $179,500 Buffalo: 10.045 Acres, 2 bedroom, 1 bath home on pier and  903-879-2180 lculwellharris@gmail.com Member EQUAL HOUSING beam with approx. 1,600 sq. ft. of living space built in 2000. The floor OPPORTUNITY 1½ ACRES IN DEW. Utilities plan is unique with high ceilings, lots of windows, covered front porch, available #2080 Jacuzzi bath tub and much more. The land is completely fenced, square 20 acre homestaed in shape with 50% of the land being open pasture, a 280 ft. water well, RICHLAND CHAMBERS ag exempt and a 24x32 storage building. #1450 $2,750/Ac Centerville: 25 acres east of Centerville off of Hwy 7, beautiful wooded tract loaded with deer, hogs and other wildlife. Black Branch Creek runs thru the property, all you need is your gun and camping supplies REDUCED!!! $237,000 22.80 acres/Centerville: A beautiful brick home with approx.

1,870 sq. ft. of living space, a 2 car garage with lots of room. This 2b/2b home overlooks a beautiful improved hay meadow, with a small stock RVthrough PARK set HOMES pond and a three stall pole barn. Lots of wildlife roam theup and read to town #805 quiet area southeast 3B/2.5B BRICK W/FP ON 5 ACRES, 2 BLDGS FOR property, perfect for horses and cattle. Located in a Close of Centerville in the CISD school district. SOLD!!!

SHOP/BARN #895 $185,000.00 $275,000 Centerville: 4 bedroom 2 bath 2,100 sq. ft. home on 12.51 wooded acres. This is a Kodiak steel framed building (Barndominium) 3B/2B BRICK W/SHOP COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE 9 ft. tall ceilings, double paned windows, front and back porches, 25x60 ON 3 ACRES TEAGUE #2090 $80,000.00 storage container. Great weekend home or permanent residence, lots of 3B/1.5B BRICK HOME ON 2 LGR LOTS ON deer and other wild game roam through this area. 20 ACRES in Butler Area $1,400,000 518.353 Limestone County: This of property has road frontage.

Utilities a 2B/1BAc. brick in town, new floors, HEATHER ST. #2165 $65,000.00 #1533 marsh, awesome potential developing five star duck hunting newfor lights and all afreshly painted.

3B/3B LOG HOME W 2FP OPEN LlV/DIN/KIT , Ready to move 200 in. #1320 roughly 170 acres is wetlands, acres of improved pasture and 200 acres of scrub brush trees for deer/hog 3B/2½B brickhome onhunting.

5 acresOther of features include UNIQUE VANITIES, LRG CLOSETS TIN CEILINGS, a 3b/2b 1,728 sq. ft. house built inGame 2007 room (per CAD) fenced property, and 30x30 garage, 30x60 ON 18 ACRES WITH LOTS OF TREES $375,000.00 (5) stall pole barn, two4buildings ideaworking for a shops or cattle, all new stock ponds, pens for barns.fencing Located close to perimeter and cross replaced sixtown years#895 ago.

3B/2.5B BRICK W FP, LARGE MASTER SUITE, In Teague 3b/2b2 bedroom, brick older Centerville: 10.00 Acres 1 bath cabin approx. 600 LIFETIME DECK GREAT FOR ENTERTAINING SEPA- $79,500 on 3porches. acres. Property Lots of pecan ACRE TRACTS on North sq. ft. with fronthome and back is 95%10 wooded with large trees, 20x20 shop, highway utilities a RATES MOTHER-IN-LAW HOUSE, 5 STALL BARN hardwood timber, great access off offenced. a black Great top county road,frontage, with water, for 4 h project. #2090 $80,000.00 wooded & open #1405 telephone and electric on site. Lots of wild life including deer and hogs W/TACK RM, FEED RM AND WASH RM, RIDING access to the Trinity River is only 3 miles away. Great place to get away ARENA, EXTRA PENS ON 20 ACRES $450,000.00 and enjoy what mother nature has to offer! $2,600/ac Centerville: 10.79 Acres of beautiful virgin hardwood timber, 3B/2B DW W/2 LIV AREAS, LG FR PORCH, CP, Keechi Creek runs through the middle of the property and provides 2200sf BARN ON 10 AC. #560 $115,000.00 excellent sand bass fishing in the spring, deer, hogs, and squirrels are BEAUTIFUL FRAME HOME W/HISTORICAL MARKER abundant. This property is perfect for the year round sportsman! SOLD!!! $3,450/ac Leon County: 18.00 Acres located in the St. Paul/Shilo area ON REUNION SOLD #1201 with FM 542 road frontage. Property is 100% wooded, loaded with 2B/1B FRAME HOME ON CORNER LOT IN TEAGUE mature hardwood timber, get access, fenced on three sides and all the utilities are available. Lots of wildlife including deer, hogs, and squirrels #1601B $45,000.00 through the property making for great hunting. Unrestricted, 2B/1B FRAME ON S 9TH TEAGUE - GREAT RENTAL roam Oakwood ISD. CONTRACT PENDING!!!

PROPERTY #1601A $39,000.00 $99,500 Flynn/Normangee: 19.21 Acres located between the towns of Normangee and Flynn. Beautiful oak trees are scattered throughout the 2B/1B FRAME W/LOTS OF CHARM ON LRG LOT IN property, a brand new 1 acres lake has been constructed and is ready to be TEAGUE #1851 stocked with fish, lots of wildlife including deer and hogs roam through the land. This property is set up perfectly for the weekend hunter or ACREAGE Photos available at http://www.landsoftexas.com/member/8956 someone looking to build a permanent residence. Property is fenced on 20 ACRES IN BUTLER AREA - WOODED - GREAT three sides and all utilities including water, electric, and telephone are at the road. Under wildlife exemption! CONTRACT PENDING!!!

FOR RECREATION #1533 $62,070.00 $3,500/ac Centerville: 28.08 Acres This property is 40% wooded with 10 ACRE TRACTS ON N HWY 75 AND FM 833 hardwood timber, iron wood slough runs through the property making for #1401 great duck hunting opportunities, roughly 2 miles from the Trinity River flyway. Property is completely fenced, county road frontage with water, electric, and septic on site. A small camper and carport with convey with LOTS the sale, agriculture exempt!

Oak Tree Realty 316 W. Hwy 84 • Fairfield 903-389-5263

$239,000

903-389-LAND

Got something to sell? Announce it in the paper that hits the newstands early!

Use the Classifieds

It's easy to place an ad or find the items you want, and it's used by thousands of shoppers every week!

Freestone County Times

Call 903-389-6397 for rates

NEW LISTING AT RED LAKE - LOT ON EAST SIDE

6-D -HELP WANTED-

-Classifieds-HELP WANTED-

-HELP WANTED-

-HELP WANTED-

J�� O���������� �� F��������: L��� A������������ Qualified applicants will possess a high school diploma or equivalent and minimum of three years of experience in loan support operations, title complany, general accounting or banking as well as general knowledge of the following: accounting/financial systems; office equipment and systems used for the storage and retrieval of business information; standard records management and file classification practices; title, crop, and credit life insurance documentation; documentation requirements for title policies, deeds of trust; and collateral. Specialized knowledge of written correspondence principles.

Skill in oral and written communication. Basic skill level in Microsoft office applications.

Please send resume and salary history to: Wendy Swift, Texas Farm Credit 3210 W. Northwest Loop 323, Tyler, Texas 75702 E-Fax: 877-206-8334 Email: wswift@texasfcs.com EOE/AA/M/F/D/V Cochran Chemical Company is seeking qualified, full time treat/pump truck driver. Must be familiar with treat/pump truck. Benefits, 401K, and competitive salary offered.

Contact Margie Bailey 903391-3333 or Kevin Satterwhite 903-394-1770. _________________________

JOB OPENINGS FOR GENERAL LABOR at new truck tarping operation in Jewett, Texas.

Candidates must have good communication skills. Flat bed trucking experience and bi-lingual a plus but not required.

Contact Bob Moore at 423-580-7681 or email resume to rmoore@safetarp.com

COME BE A PART OF OUR TEAM! Wortham A/C, Inc. is looking for an experienced Service Technician for immediate employement.

Must have a minimum of 5 years field experience in the residential and light commercial markets, a clean driving record, and must be able to pass a background check. Job offers a competitive salary based on experience, paid sick days and holidays, and health insurance. Applicants must apply in person at 622 South Third Street, Wortham, Texas. No phone applications will be accepted. If you are a team player, and desire to be part of a company with high standards and commitment to its customers, please apply.

Nucor Steel - Jewett, Texas Accounting Supervisor Position

Apply in person at 420 Moody St. Fairfield, TX 903-389-1236 EOE

-HELP WANTED-

-HELP WANTED-

General Labor Locomotive Service Inc. – Fairfield, TX Full-time, on-call position for light repair of locomotives and rail cars. Training provided, no experience necessary. Basic computer skills required. Above average pay and benefits.

Apply online at www. locomotiveservice.com or leave a message at (303) 362-3348 ________________________

ACCOUNTING CLERK

Texas Home Health of America is rapidly growing!

Our team in Waco is looking to immediately hire caring and compassionate part-time Care Partners to assist our clients in the Streetman area. Must be at least 18 years of age, have reliable transportation, and a love of client care. Please contact the Recruiter at (254) 755-6111 or 1-800-792-3603 for details. ________________________

Fairfield/Buffalo Area

Busy department. High volume work ticket processing and data entry. Remove tickets. Min. 2 years as an accounting clerk. Accounting department experience a real plus.

Excel and Word. employ@brelsfordpersonnel.com

Let them know that advertising works.

Tell our advertisers that you saw them in The ”Times”

Nucor Steel, a fortune 500 company, in the steel manufacturing industry seeks strong, degreed Accounting Supervisor for its Jewett, Texas location.

•Possess effective interpersonal and communication skills.

•Be able to multi-task in fast-paced environment.

•Possess excellent computer skills with speed and •accuracy, especially Excel.

•Have successful work history.

•Work with confidential and time sensitive material.

•Be a flexible and cooperative team member familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field.

•Rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.

•Have ability to prioritize, work independently, and prioritize work for others.

•Reports organization's finances on a weekly and monthly basis including projections, budgets, analyze data, etc.

•Have a B.S. in Accounting or Business.

•Prefer a Master’s degree/CPA and two years accounting system experience.

Drivers wanted to transport If you are interested in this position, please forward a railroad crews in the Teague, TX resume via email to marsha.skinner@nucor.com or fax area. Paid training, benefits, &to 903.626.6289. company vehicle provided.

Starting pay $.17 per mile or $7.50 hour while waiting. Apply Nucor is an Equal Opportunity per Employer - M/F/Disabled/Vet and online at www.renzenberger.com.

Drug Free Workplace

Kent Trucking – Drivers Needed: Class B or CDL. Apply at 718 State Hwy. 75 South or call 903-389-7497. ________________________

DRIVERS WANTED

Local company is looking for drivers to transport railroad crews up to a 200 mile radius from Teague, TX. Must live within 20 miles of Teague, be 21 or older, and pre-employment drug screen required. A company vehicle is provided, paid training, & benefits available. No special license needed. Compensation is $.17 per mile or $7.50 an hour while waiting.

Apply at www.Renzenberger.com

Come join our awesome team!

2-10 LVN 2-10 CNA

January 28, 2015 www.FreestoneCountyTimes.com

Carry-On Trailer Corp., located in Mexia, Texas, is a major manufacturer of Utility and Cargo trailers. We are seeking applicants for the following positions.

Mig Welders-(Structural fabrication experience preferred) Utility Assembly (Mechanical experience preferred) Forklift Operators (Outdoor flatbed loading experience preferred) Applicants must apply in person at Carry-On Trailer 935 Industrial Blvd. in Mexia, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All potential applicants are subject to a preemployment drug screen. Participates in the E-verify program.

Nucor Steel - Jewett, Texas has an opening for a CNC/Lathe Operator/Machinist Nucor Steel, a fortune 500 company, in the steel manufacturing industry seeks an experienced CNC/Lathe Operator/Machinist for its Jewett, Texas location.

•Strong technical knowledge and prior experience with machine shop equipment and processes.

•Strong commitment to safety in all job aspects.

•Strong knowledge of G codes.

•Ability to transfer drawings from Autocad to Gibbs Cam or other related programs.

•Proficient in operating Siemens or Fanuc controls.

•Prefer a diploma/certificate/apprenticeship in machining technology discipline, 5 years of CNC or similar machining equipment, and strong knowledge of the steelmaking process.

If you are interested in this position, please forward a resume via email to marsha.skinner@nucor.com or fax to 903.626.6289.

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/Disabled/Vet and Drug Free Workplace

TUTLE & TUTLE TRUCKING IS NOW HIRING - CLASS A CDL DRIVERS to haul cement around the MEXIA area, M - F, some Sat. Pays a % of the load. MUST HAVE 2 YRS OF VERIFIABLE DRIVING EXP IN A TRACTOR TRAILER, MIN CRIMINAL & MVR VIOLATIONS, Min. age 23; DRUG SCREEN AND BACKGROUND CHECK CONDUCTED. Must follow all FMCSA rules and regulations.

RIO/felonies case by case. Contact Velvet at 800-827-7738 for a driver’s application!

IS LOOKING FOR A

Qualified Sales Consultant For interview, please come by 1201 West U.S. Hwy 84 903-389-4186

-PETS-

-RVS FOR SALE-



FREE PUPPIES! Cute 8-week old mixed breed puppies need good homes. Mom is mostly mini-pin, dad is sneaky neighbor’s dog, a mediumlarge mutt, white with orange spots. 903-389-3523 _________________________

For Sale 2014 Heritage Glenn Travel Trailer. Has 3 slide outs. Like new condition.

Paid 40,000. Asking $30,000 firm. Can be seen in Buffalo.

Call Larry or Margie 903-3913069, 903-388-4151. ________________________

-LIVESTOCK-

-MISC. SERVICES-

BJ’s Poultry offers baby chicks, baby ducks, and vegetables that are in season.

Call 903-389-6838 _________________________

Campbell Painting & Remodeling Interior / Exterior painting Drywall repairs Custom finishes Free estimates Based in Fairfield 903-724-5613 _________________________ Sitter/Companion Have 22 years experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Great references. Call Lynda at 903-879-2628. ________________________

Learn to Fly-Fish

at Texas Fresh Water Fisheries ATHENS— The Dallas Fly Fishers will teach morning and afternoon classes for beginning fly-fishers at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center’s (TFFC) Fly Fish Pavilion on Saturday, March 14th.

Due to limited space, pre-registration is required.

Contact TFFC by e-mailing tffc@tpwd.texas.gov or by calling (903) 676-2277. Leave your contact information (name, phone, e-mail) to receive a class confirmation.

There is no fee for these classes, but regular admission to TFFC is required.

Instruction will lead to basic fly-fisher certification and will focus on fly-tying, learning about flyfishing equipment, performing the basic four-part cast, sampling aquatic insects to see what fish eat, discussing freshwater ecology, tying useful fishing knots and learning about safety and ethics issues associated with fly-fishing.