|
|
|
|
|
MILO HARVEST IN FLOYD COUNTY--Harvesters are seen Tuesday morning reaping the milo crop on the Whittle & Moss Farms southwest of Floydada, Floyd County. Floyd County Extension Agent J.D. Ragland said, "We have tripled our milo crop this year in Floyd County due to the hailed out cotton earlier. Normally we plant about 40,000 acres of milo, but this year we planted over 120,000 acres. The yields are from 7,500 bushels per acre to 1,500 bushels per acre. It varies from irrigated to dryland.
Gross Gets 35 Years For Aggravated Assault Jacob Gross, 24, of Lockney, was sentenced, Wednesday, October 15, to 35 years in prison for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The offense occurred June 24, 2003 in Lockney. After one and half days of testimony, Floyd County jurors found Gross guilty of the offense. Gross chose to be sentenced by Judge Randy Hollums instead of the jury. "He could have gotten anywhere from 5-99 years, and up to a $10,00 fine" said District Attorney Becky McPherson. "But because Gross used a 17 inch knife in the commission of the offense he must serve a minimum of 17 1/2 years before he is eligible for parole." Gross also had a previous record for burglary. "He was sentenced to 7 years for that crime and served 5 years," said McPherson. "He also stole a car after he committed the offense and he tore up wiring in the Floyd County jail while he awaited the trial. He did approximately $900 worth of criminal mischief while in the jail. "All of these factors were considered in the sentencing." Jurors heard testimony from an 18 year old female victim and Gross himself. The assault occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. the morning of October 15. The victim had returned from Plainview and dropped off her parents car at a sister's house to be used by the sister the next day. The victim was walking the one and one-half blocks from her sister's home to her parent's house when the assault took place. Crossing Main Street the victim was approached by her former boyfriend, Jacob Gross. According to the victim, Jacob asked her, "What are you doing?" She answered, "Nothing". The victim stated that Gross then hit her on her head and stomach and knocked her down. She said he pulled a knife and forced her into an alley and threatened to kill her. The victim related that Gross threatened her on and off for 2 hours and told her he would kill her if she tried to get away. The victim stated she had sexual intercourse with Gross in order to get away from him. Gross chose to testify and admitted he had a knife and that he hit and knocked the victim down. However, Gross stated he only intended to scare the woman. Gross also admitted going into the alley so no one would see the knife, but he contended the sex was consensual. After the attack the victim went home and told her parents. Police were called and Gross was arrested within 3 hours after the offense. During the punishment stage Gross testified that he had worked 6 days--3 days at one job and 3 days at another. No family members or employers testified on his behalf. The victim chose not to make a victim impact statement, however her father testified during the trial that she was still so frightened that she would wake up and be too scared to sleep by herself. The father stated the victim would sometimes feel the need to sleep with her parents. "Gross asked for a speedy trial and he got one," said McPherson. "I appreciate the citizens in this county. They are very willing to serve as jurors. This makes it easier to have a speedy jury trial." Gross' lawyer has given notice he plans to appeal. "It may take up to a year for the Court of Criminal Appeals to decide," said McPherson. "However, Gross will be waiting in prison."
Church Opens Activity Center STAND Intervention/Family Connections and Families in Unity combined gave a total of $1,000 in matching funds to a new youth and recreation center in Floydada, called the "Powerhouse Center". STAND Intervention also donated 3 computers with monitors, 2 laptops, 2 computer desks, and 1 office chair. Lynn Marler donated a basketball goal with the pole and Wanda Russell donated a ping pong table. Powerhouse Center, located at 607 W. Lee, is a ministry of Calvary's Cornerstone Fellowship. The Center is located in what used to be Bethany Baptist Church. "First Baptist Church graciously donated the building to us," said Administrator Rick Peralez, "and for this we are forever grateful. "Our mission with this ministry is to be a community outreach center for all ages, from young to old alike. Our most prominent push has been the youth program simply because we have had our Fifth Quarter fellowship after every home football game. "We have also hosted STAND Intervention & Family Connections meeting as well as Families in Unity. "The Floydada Chamber of Commerce will be meeting here on November 4th. "Some of our other visitors include Gerald Davis, BGCT Consultant from Dallas, John Silva, BGCT church starting office from Lubbock, Dr. Gene Meacham, Director of Missions from Plainview, and Ray Morales' LSU Tigers football team, from the area Tiger League. "We feel the need to make ourselves available to the community and do whatever it takes to demonstrate the love of Christ through whatever program necessary." Also part of the church's ministry is the Senior Adult luncheon which meets at noon every Thursday at Calvary's Cornerstone Fellowship church for a time of devotion, fellowship, and of course lunch. "October 31st we will be having our Fall Fest at Powerhouse for the children from 7-9 p.m.," said Peralez. "It is a perfect time to drop off the kids if you are attending the football game. After the game we will be open for the Jr. & Sr. High students. An open house for the Center will be Tuesday, October 28th from 6 &endash;8 p.m. "We invite everyone to come by and see what our facility has to offer you and our community," said Peralez. "Presently we have 3 ping pong tables, 1 air hockey table, 1 foosball table, 1 basketball shootout game, 1 pool table, and 3 playstation areas. We hope to, in the near future, have our computers setup and an after school tutorial program in place. Lubbock Worksource has also donated 4 computers and monitors. "Also, since we are an authorized distributor for AMA-TechTel high speed wireless internet, we will have internet access use on our systems." Peralez's administrative office is at this location and is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to answer any questions. The phone number at the center is 983-2895. Any donations can be mailed to P. O. Box 66, Floydada, Tx. 79235 in care of Powerhouse Center. STAND Intervention/Family Connections and Families in Unity combined gave a total of $1,000 in matching funds to a new youth and recreation center in Floydada, called the "Powerhouse Center". STAND Intervention also donated 3 computers with monitors, 2 laptops, 2 computer desks, and 1 office chair. Lynn Marler donated a basketball goal with the pole and Wanda Russell donated a ping pong table. Powerhouse Center, located at 607 W. Lee, is a ministry of Calvary's Cornerstone Fellowship. The Center is located in what used to be Bethany Baptist Church. "First Baptist Church graciously donated the building to us," said Administrator Rick Peralez, "and for this we are forever grateful. "Our mission with this ministry is to be a community outreach center for all ages, from young to old alike. Our most prominent push has been the youth program simply because we have had our Fifth Quarter fellowship after every home football game. "We have also hosted STAND Intervention & Family Connections meeting as well as Families in Unity. "The Floydada Chamber of Commerce will be meeting here on November 4th. "Some of our other visitors include Gerald Davis, BGCT Consultant from Dallas, John Silva, BGCT church starting office from Lubbock, Dr. Gene Meacham, Director of Missions from Plainview, and Ray Morales' LSU Tigers football team, from the area Tiger League. "We feel the need to make ourselves available to the community and do whatever it takes to demonstrate the love of Christ through whatever program necessary." Also part of the church's ministry is the Senior Adult luncheon which meets at noon every Thursday at Calvary's Cornerstone Fellowship church for a time of devotion, fellowship, and of course lunch. "October 31st we will be having our Fall Fest at Powerhouse for the children from 7-9 p.m.," said Peralez. "It is a perfect time to drop off the kids if you are attending the football game. After the game we will be open for the Jr. & Sr. High students. An open house for the Center will be Tuesday, October 28th from 6 &endash;8 p.m. "We invite everyone to come by and see what our facility has to offer you and our community," said Peralez. "Presently we have 3 ping pong tables, 1 air hockey table, 1 foosball table, 1 basketball shootout game, 1 pool table, and 3 playstation areas. We hope to, in the near future, have our computers setup and an after school tutorial program in place. Lubbock Worksource has also donated 4 computers and monitors. "Also, since we are an authorized distributor for AMA-TechTel high speed wireless internet, we will have internet access use on our systems." Peralez's administrative office is at this location and is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to answer any questions. The phone number at the center is 983-2895. Any donations can be mailed to P. O. Box 66, Floydada, Tx. 79235 in care of Powerhouse Center.
Laura Farris Honored as Woman of Distinction
Laura Farris, of Floydada, will be honored at the Girl Scouts Women of Distinction Awards dinner, November 20, at 6:30 p.m., at the McInturff Conference Center in Lubbock. The guest speaker will be Judge Judy Parker. Since 1993, Girl Scouts of Caprock Council have honored women from across the Council's eighteen county jurisdiction who have inspired girls through their example, to achieve the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism, and service. Farris was nominated for the distinction by the 1950 Study Club, Rev. David Jones of the First United Methodist Church, Julianne Cornelius, and Debbie Braselton. Laura, and her husband Tom, have a nine year old son, T.K. (Thomas Kinder III). The owner of Floydada Ford, Laura was named Woman Dealer of the Year in 1994, which was presented to her in New York by the CEO of the Ford Company. She was also named Floydada's Citizen of the Year in 2002 by the Floydada Chamber of Commerce. A prominent businesswoman in Floydada, Laura not only owns a car dealership, but she has also opened up three new stores in Floydada: Napa Auto Parts, Radio Shack, and Ace Hardware. She also serves on the Economic Development Board. Farris is also known for her organizational skills and her driving force behind successful businesses and projects. One of those projects, "Kids Korner" child care has been a great benefit to the community. "Not long ago," said Rev. Jones, "Laura noticed that Floyd County families with working moms and dads needed child-care and pre-school education. It is typical of Laura that she saw a need and did something about it. "She rallied community support, put together a team of local citizens, raised money, purchased property (revitalizing a church building that would otherwise be empty), built an additional building, hired a staff, and Kids Korner came into being. Kids Korner has grown so much (from 15 per day to 50 per day), that an additional building is soon to be built. "Laura also doesn't just build and walk away. Several times a week she visits Kids Korner, adding new enthusiasm and inspiration to what is already there." An employee at Floydada Ford, Debbie Braselton, said, "Laura has helped many employees through financial and personal crisis...Our mornings at Floydada Ford begin with a prayer meeting. All employees are encouraged to come....I am so thankful we have a boss who allows us and leads us in a time of prayer." A member of Floydada's First United Methodist Church, Laura teaches children's Sunday School class and delivers the children's message during the worship service. She is also the chairperson of the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee and is a member of the church governing board. Laura was born in Pampa to Robert A. and Doris Johnson. She was a Brownie and a member of Girl Scout Troop 9. As a Girl Scout Laura designed the Ecology badge which was devised by her troop. "Girl Scouts is an organization that develops social skills along with leadership skills," said Laura. "Girl Scouts also builds strong friendships, not only in the troop setting, but also in the many Girl Scout camping experiences." As a teenager Laura grew up active in dance, music and all types of sports--particularly tennis. For several summers she trained under Cliff Drysdale World Championship Tennis at Lakeway. A graduate of Pampa High School, Laura attended the University of Hawaii in the summer of 1980; the University of Sydney Australia in the summer of 1983 (where she established a "Year of the Bible"--a program launched by President Reagan); and Texas Tech 1980-1984. She graduated Tech with a BA in advertising and Public Relations. Upon graduating Laura worked with KLLB-FM radio in Lubbock, where she composed and sold advertising. In 1988 she bought Floydada Ford Mercury dealership and moved to Floydada. "Laura Farris is a builder," said Julianne Cornelius. When she took over the Floydada Ford-Mercury, there was one vehicle on the lot. Today, it is a thriving business. "Laura's goal, it seems, is to make our town the best that it can be for her little son and all the people who live here. In a small town like ours, we hear so many times, 'I wish we could do something to make this town grow.' Laura just does it, and that exhibits the qualities of the Girl Scout Promise and Law in her life." TDA Salutes Floydada The community of Floydada was recognized by the Texas Department of Agriculture for its rural development efforts at a special ceremony October 15, marking the official kick-off of TDA's Texas Yes! program to market and promote rural Texas. Floydada was one of 21 other Texas communities honored as a 2003 Texas Yes! Hardworking Rural Community for its efforts to boost tourism, job growth, leadership mentoring, community development and other economic opportunities in rural Texas. "Rural Texas is alive and kicking," said Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs. "We wanted to recognize and celebrate the commitment these 21 communities have made to their citizens and their future. In turn, we are making those same commitments to rural Texas with our new Texas Yes! initiative." The other 2003 Texas Yes! Hardworking Rural Communities included Bastrop, Brownwood, Canadian, Clifton, Coleman, Crowell, Duval County, Falfurrias, Fort Stockton, Graham, Gun Barrel City, Jasper, Mason, Ozona, Perryton, Robert Lee, Robstown, Sulphur Springs, Sweetwater and Yoakum. Internet connectivity, technology training and business assistance were identified two years ago as the top priorities of Floydada. Now two private broadband companies are bringing wireless Internet to the "Pumpkin Capital of Texas," a newly opened GED lab has graduated more than 50 adults and enrolled another 100 and a new community technology center is open. This fall, plans supporting business retention and expansion, workforce development, nature tourism and new business start-ups will be unveiled. "The reality of the Technology Center will have lifelong effects on our citizens," said Dora Ross, executive director of the Floydada Economic Development Corporation. "We believe the citizens who utilize the Center and become more educated and qualified in the job market will also improve their self-esteem and quality of life. It will help us bridge the digital divide in the under served populations and provide opportunities for our citizens to gain employable skills or advance to higher paying jobs." Texas Yes! is a broad-based membership program and initiative launched by TDA. The program is open to rural communities, Texas businesses with locations in rural Texas and individuals, organizations and associations that support and promote rural Texas. "An important part of Texas Yes! is to spotlight the success stories of rural communities across the state," said Combs. "One community's success can be the spark for another's." The Texas Yes! Advisory Board includes Pulitzer-prize winning author Larry McMurtry: Evan Smith, editor, Texas Monthly; Emmett McCoy, founder, McCoy's Building Supply Centers; Tom Dobson, chairman and CEO of Whataburger; Dr. Robert Sweazy, vice president, Texas Tech University; George Cogswell, president and publisher, Abilene Reporter-News; Tim Crenwelge, mayor of Fredericksburg; Rob Brown, with the R.A. Brown Ranch; and Tom Perini, with Perini Ranch Steakhouse. "The caliber and commitment of our board members is a testament to the strong support for rural Texas," said Combs. Gov. Rick Perry joined Commissioner Combs in saluting the hardworking rural communities at the Oct. 15 Texas Yes! kick-off event. He also recently announced a $1 million grant from his office to the Texas Yes! program for a two-year effort to market and promote tourism in rural Texas. The grant is part of Gov. Perry's broad economic development initiative.
Obituaries
K. ETHEL CARMACK Services for Kathryn Ethel Carmack, 97, of Glen Rose were held Monday, October 20, 2003 at Moore-Rose-White Memorial Chapel in Floydada. The Rev. Phil Carpenter officiated. Burial was in the Floydada Cemetery under the direction of Moore-Rose-White Funeral Home of Floydada. She departed this life on October 16, 2003 at the Glen Rose Medical Center in Glen Rose, where she had resided the last two years. She was born July 7, 1906 in Winters to Hallie and Albert Glenn. Ethel or "Carmack" as she was known to all, was the eldest of eight children. She grew up surrounded by a loving family in the southwestern area of Texas. She was married to Cager Bryant Carmack in Knox City on April 19, 1924. Four children were born to this union: Cagerlene Daley, Glenn Carmack, Billy Carmack and Bobby Carmack. Ethel and Cager moved to the Floydada area in the early 1930's. After Cager's passing in February, 1987, Ethel continued to live in the family home in Floydada until age and health forced her to move to an assisted living facility in Granbury. Ethel was an active and loyal member of the First Christian Church in Floydada for almost 70 years. She lived a happy, productive life for 97 years, 3 months and 10 days, bringing joy to all those around her, and will be much missed by everyone. She was preceded in death by her son, Glenn, her husband, Cager, her daughter, Cagerlene and one granddaughter, Jeri. She was also preceded in death by her parents and 5 brothers and sisters. She is survived by two sons, Billy and wife Nita and Bobby and wife Leila; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. BETTY JO GILBREATH Funeral services for Betty Jo Perry Gilbreath, 79, of Floydada will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 23, 2003 at the First Baptist Church of Floydada. Reverend Anthony Sisemore will officiate and Reverend Armando Morales will assist. Burial will be in the Floydada Cemetery under the direction of Moore-Rose-White Funeral Home of Floydada. Mrs. Gilbreath passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2003 at Mangold Memorial Hospital in Lockney. She was born on July 15, 1924 in Floydada to J. T. Perry and Addie Tomlinson Perry. She married John Wesley Gilbreath on September 2, 1950 in Plainview. He departed this life on December 27, 2002. She was a telephone operator and enjoyed being with her family. She was a lifelong resident of Floydada and was a member of the Whirlwind Sams Trailer Club and First Baptist Church. Survivors include a sister, Louvenia Brown of Floydada; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. The family suggests memorials to the Exodus Fund at the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 610, Floydada, Texas 79235. The family will
receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00
p.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2003.
CHARLES A. STEVENSON Private services for Charles Albert "Button" Stevenson, 92, of Canyon have been held. Arrangements were by Blackburn-Shaw Funeral Directors Memorial Chapel. Mr. Stevenson died Tuesday, October 7, 2003. He was born on his parent's farm in Floyd County on May 7, 1911. He played polo at the professional level and had been a mortician prior to entering the Navy at the beginning of World War II. He served as a corpsman in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he farmed and ranched in Floyd and Briscoe counties and in Chaves County, New Mexico. While living in Roswell, New Mexico, he was an active member of Alcholics Anonymous and accepted Jesu as his Lord and Master. He was preceded in death by his wife, Naomi Smith Stevenson in 1970 and a sister, Chi Clark in 1988. Survivors include his son, Max Stevenson; three grandsons, Jim Stevenson, Tommy Stevenson and Sam Stevenson; three great-grandsons, Cedar Stevenson, Holt Stevenson and Clayton Stevenson.
Dear Editor, Hi folks. The state is building you a new Farm Road from two miles north of South Plains, east about 16 miles to FM 1065, which is about four miles south of Quitaque. Notice the scenic view on the right, starting about 8 miles east of SH 207 on around to lookout point. The scenic view you see is about 65,000 cubic yards of loose excess excavation that was allowed to be pushed over the side. Wonder what a three inch rain will do to it? Danny G. Holland, P.E. Retired Engineer Plainview
By The Way | by Alice Gilroy
A View From The Lamplighter | by Ken Towery
The Hesperian-Beacon invites you to read a collection of thoughts and memories by Ken Towery. The "Reflections of Ken Towery" can be found on this website by clicking here.
Classifieds AUTOMOBILES FOR SALE SHERIFF SALE--1985 Oldsmobile 4 Dr. -VIN #1G3CX6930F1339224; 1991 Chevrolet 4 Dr. - VIN #1GNC513ZOM2139201. Date sale October 27, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. Vehicles located 120 E. Missouri. Sheriff may accept or reject all bids.
FOR SALE--2001 Chevy Silverado Extended Cab Pickup with topper and bedliner. Call 983-6111.
WEST TEXAS LEE COMPANY--Automate your cotton module builder with "The Module Hand" and eliminate the need for an operator. Fits most brands. We install on locations. 806-892-2565; 1-800-825-3346, Idalou, Texas.
Floydada 502 N. 2nd Street----Garage sale Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
812 W. VIRGINIA--Garage sale Saturday 25th - 8:00 a.m. til 3:00 p.m.
GRAZING WANTED--Wheat pasture, milo stalks and/or grass. Call 292-9723 or 983-5431 (nights).
HELP WANTED LOCKNEY HEALTH & REHAB CENTER is hiring CNA's and parttime dietary staff. Call Keri at 652-3375.
FOR SALE--3 bedroom, 2 bath, 30x30 shop at 110 South First. Call Mike Giesecke, 983-3453 or 983-3787.
FOR SALE BY OWNER!--3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, updated throughout, corner lot, nice fenced yard, storage building.PRICE REDUCED!! Call 983-2064 or 983-2865, ask for J.
FOR SALE -- Brick home. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, basement, attached garage, large yard, 124 Mae Avenue. Call 983-2910.
FOUND: Little girl's purse. Found at Punkin Days. Call 983-3434.
LONGABERGER BASKETS - Half Price. Call 983-2214.
$202 - QUEEN MATTRESS SET. Brand new, never used, with warranty. 806-517-1050.
QUEEN PILLOWTOP doublesided mattress set. New, still packaged. Warranty. List - $550, Sell - $236. 806-517-1050.
FULL PILLOWTOP doublesided mattress set. New, still packaged. Warranty. List - $400, Sell - $208. 806-517-1050.
FULL SIZE MATTRESS SET. New, never used. $180.00. Call 806-517-1050.
$230 - KING MATTRESS SET--Brand new, still packaged. Warranty.Call 806-517-1050.
$268 - KING PILLOWTOP mattress set. Brand new, still packaged, warranty. Call 806-517-1050.
QUEEN CHERRY SLEIGH BED. New, still boxed. List - $750. Sell - $399. Call 806-517-1050.
ALPHATEX KENNEL, AIKEN, TEXAS offers superior quality AKC Registered, DNA Certified Collies, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds. Puppies and stud service available. www.alphatexkennels.com
PROPERTY FOR SALE-Floyd County, pursuant to a tax foreclosure sale, is offering for sale the following property in the City of Lockney: All of Lots No. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 in Block 35 and Lots 1 and 2 in Block G of the N.B. Davis Survey located in the City of Lockney, Floyd County, Texas also known as the Webster Service and Supply, Inc. property. Any offers should be submitted to: William D. Hardin, County Judge, Courthouse Room 105, Floydada, Texas 79235.
PAINTING INSIDE AND OUTSIDE. Vance Mitchell 983-6111.
NEED HOUSECLEANING? Call 685-0131 anytime. Reasonable pricing.
CEMENT WORK? Sidewalks, patios, driveways, curbing. Odd jobs around home or farm. Gary Bennett. Call or leave message. 983-5120.
LARRY OGDEN AUCTIONEERING Estates, Farm, Ranch, Business, Liquidations, State Licensed and Bonded. (806) 983-5808. TX. #9240.
|
 |
|
