From the President

As this is my last article, I want to thank those who helped make the State Conference a success. Angela Laidacker and Joyce Francis were principal planners of the little details and kept everything straight. Becky Frost of County Progress handled the vendors with experience and knowledge, while Amy and Julie kept us all going with information we all share. We owe them great thanks.
I also wish to thank all the vendors, sponsors and committee members who supported our conference and made it such a great success. Also, the hotel staff members were great and accommodating in all aspects of handling our meeting. To everyone who attended, on behalf of your officers we appreciate your participation and hope everyone had a wonderful time and learned a great deal.
With that said, my wife, Mary, and I certainly would like to thank all the fellow officers who helped with their knowledge and support. A big thank you to Borden County Judge Van York and his wife, Barbara. Special thanks to Jim Allison who regularly communicates with us on legislative issues and who will continue to be one who really is at the frontline watching as the bullets fly by. What a unique position he has as he knows so much more than most legislators and can back up statements with the historical knowledge and facts he possesses.
In this business you get to meet many people who are professionals in their fields or who are very knowledgeable and friendly, ready to give advice, direction and help. I’ve valued their input and shared their concerns about county government. I look up to them as mentors and guides in decision-making; many of you can identify with me. I have gained respect and understanding that comes from listening and seeing what is sometimes underrated by how things are done. I really feel fortunate that in this time in my life, I have had the opportunity of a lifetime to be where the action is and have input, however small, in making decisions for the welfare of county government. It is overwhelming to say the least.
As the reins of the presidency have been turned over to Trinity County Judge Mark Evans, I urge everyone to support him as you have supported me. Also, as Tarrant County Commissioner J. D. Johnson makes his step forward, help him whenever you can. As we go through our phases of leadership, we rely on input from our fellow commissioners courts and other county officials with their advice and expertise. We don’t have all the answers, and we never will, but as we grow older and wiser, we learn from all of you and hope we can do our best to support and represent your concerns.
In this next legislative session, be ready to be ever vigilant in what is going on with laws that can be detrimental to county government. There are many issues that need watching. We need to give guidance to representatives and senators as they attempt to harness us with unfunded mandates and detrimental laws that will affect the way counties do business. In other words, watch out!
As you go about your lives, remember God through Christ, and remember that all you receive is by His grace. We are truly blessed as we have been called to do His work as chosen officials. Pray for understanding and guidance as you proceed in helping your constituents. Be ever mindful of concerns, and ask for help in decision-making. Pray for all who are ill and suffering as well as our troops in harm’s way. Pray for each other as you begin each day, and thank Him at the end of each day for all He has done. Bless you all.
Gilbert Pargmann, President CJCAT