The 87th Legislature was as we expected it to be. Participation from not only Judges and Commissioners, but sheriffs, treasurers, other elected officials, and association representatives helped us to stay engaged in order to have our voices heard. All of us together challenged those who wished to silence us. Even the legislators themselves, though some may not publicly … [Read more...] about A Call for Continued Leadership
County Focus
Knox County Veterans Memorial
Traveling along the highways of Texas, none is more significant than State Highway 6 (SH 6). Reaching from the Texas-Oklahoma border on the north to the Gulf of Mexico on the South, along SH 6 travelers see these signs dotting the roadside landscape. Ever present are these reminders of the sacrifice men and women of Texas and this nation made in the service of their country. … [Read more...] about Knox County Veterans Memorial
A Glimpse in the Life of Gaines County Judge Tom Keyes
Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives, giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Gaines County Judge Tom Keyes for taking the time to visit with us.
My folks moved to Seminole, the county seat of Gaines County, in 1950 when my father was named high school principal. I was born in Seminole in 1952. I went through the local school system, graduating in 1970. While growing up, I spent several summers as a junior lifeguard at the local pool. However, in high school I went to work for my best friend’s dad chopping cotton and … [Read more...] about A Glimpse in the Life of Gaines County Judge Tom Keyes
Going the Extra Mile
Veteran Services Officer Making a Lasting Impact
Tomika Nowlin, a retired Air Force non-commissioned officer, takes care of more than 8,500 Bastrop County veterans ranging from World War II through all recent and ongoing conflicts and wars. She was so successful in her first year that the Judge and Commissioners have received letters of appreciation from the deputies at the federal penitentiary and the county sheriff’s office … [Read more...] about Going the Extra Mile
Sincere Listening
Lessons Learned From a Dusty Road and an Apricot Branch
Welcome to a new year, and if you’re new to office or renewed to office, this is local government and we are family, so welcome to the family. We are glad you joined us! When asked to submit this little article, I struggled with what the topic should be. So many different folks read this publication. Different officials in different offices doing different things, but … [Read more...] about Sincere Listening