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Terry County Retired Education Professionals met on Tuesday, March 7; President Judy Kennedy called the meeting to order at 11 a.m. After the invocation, pledges to the American and Texas flag, the unanimous approval of both the minutes and the treasurer’s report, Michelle Cooper, the major educator for the South Plains Underground Water Conservation District (Terry, Yoakum, and Gaines counties) gave a program on the ABC’s of xeriscaping. It was eye-opening, inspiring, and quite relevant, considering the state of our drought-stricken yards. Her rousing PowerPoint presentation focused on the seven principles of xeriscaping and included pictures of existing xeriscapes, one of which is at the UWCD office. Handouts included a booklet featuring water wise plants and a leaflet about rainwater harvesting. The UWCD has these available at their office at 802 Tahoka Road.
Read moreBrownfield’s Janna Forbes, has become the first LeadOn graduate from the State of Texas to participate and graduate from the program. The American Pistachio Growers (APG) Leadership Program, known as LeadOn, is a year-long program designed to provide a unique experience, consisting of industry education seminars and leadership training led by APG and industry leaders. The goal of the program is for participants to graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to provide capable pistachio industry leaders in the future. The program provides a well-rounded education in the American pistachio industry, enhanced understanding of issues facing the industry today and in the future. In addition, LeadOn also provides participants with a wide range of professional contacts within the industry. And, many LeadOn graduates have been elected to APG’s Board of Directors. Highlights of the program include: State and Federal legislative presentation by APG’s lobbying firms, Water Issues—understanding the political and legislative issues surrounding water, Legislative visit to California’s State Capitol—meeting with legislators and regulatory officials, Leadership presentation—what style do you posses and how to effectively implement it, Hands-on pistachio orchard tour with Bob Beede, University of California Cooperative Extension, Food Safety, and its importance in food production and APG Nutrition and Marketing programs—why are they necessary and what do they do. Janna and her husband Klint own Tex-Achio’s pistachio orchard here in Terry County.
Read moreThe six candidates who are running to represent the citizens of Brownfield on the city council answered a few questions for the News this week so that folks can get to know them. Four candidates are running to fill two at-large seats on the council. Michael Tackitt, who was elected in 2021, is seeking to keep his at-large spot. Three other candidates are running at large: Don Bishop, Jimmy Garza and Leon Pope. Marshall Martell and Mark Williams are seeking to represent Districts 4 and 5, respectively.
Read moreWellman-Union has announced a new Athletic Director for the future of Wellman-Union sports. Head Girls Basketball Coach Josh Bailey, a familiar face at WUISD, has signed on to fill the role. Coach Bailey, a graduate of Lubbock Christian University, comes with a very impressive resume where he has coached both on the collegiate and high school levels. Bailey also brings 15 years of Athletic Director experience to Wellman-Union. During those years he has been a part of multiple playoff appearances and 8 State Championships at 3 different schools. “I am super excited to lead the Wellman- Union Athletic family and thankful for the opportunity. I have always been drawn to the small school environment and I am looking forward to the process of growing high-character student-athletes on a daily basis. The future is extremely bright at Wellman-Union and can’t wait to get to work.”
Read moreEngineer Nathan Tells, a former 2003 Brownfield High School Graduate, received the “Firefighter of the Year” award from the City of Odessa. “The Firefighter of the Year Award” is given to one individual who exemplifies the positive characteristics of a member of the fire service and who has a notable record of service and achievements. Tells is a third-generation firefighter having been employed by OFR since 2013 after he was involved in mission work which included trips to India and Kenya. From the Nominations: “Engineer Tells is one of the most knowledgeable members of our department, but where he really shines is his willingness to engage and help anyone who seeks it.” “He serves as a great example of what a Firefighter should be.” “Engineer Tells is always helping others on scene and is quick to give advice if it is needed. His knowledge and tactics are invaluable to everyone around.” Nathan and his wife of 10 years, Brandee, have a 9-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son.
Read moreUSDA has rolled out two new programs. The Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase 2 and Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP). The ERP Phase 2 program is for qualifying losses suffered in 2020 & 2021 crop years. PARP is for revenue losses suffered in 2020 crop year. Both programs are very detailed and require some research and figuring before applying. Please refer to the article below along with other resources listed below.
Read moreThe Plains Cotton Growers Inc. 66 th Annual Meeting has been set for Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at the Overton Hotel and Conference Center in Lubbock. Walk-in registration as well as a buffet breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m., and the program will commence at 9:00 a.m. This year’s program will feature keynote speaker John Kriesel. Kriesel is a combat veteran who served in Iraq and is a former State House Representative in Minnesota. While in Iraq he lost three friends and was tragically injured yet came home with a powerful message of hope and living testimony to the value of a positive attitude to overcome any challenge.
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