In Loving Memory~Verna Lee Rawlins

Verna Lee Rawlins, 79, died December 26, 2008 in Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, Texas.

Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday January 2, 2009 at Goree First Baptist Church in Goree, Texas. Visitation will be Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at McCauley-Smith Funeral Home in Munday, Texas for family and friends.

Born March 30, 1929 in Goree, Texas. She worked in Munday First National Bank for 30 years. She was a member of Goree Methodist Church.

Survivors: Two nephews: Phil Johnson of Anson, Texas and his daughter Miranda Johnson of Haskell, Texas and David and Lisa Johnson of Eastland, Texas and children Sarah and Tod Gay and Hunter Gay of Eastland, Texas; One Niece: Laura Stovall of Knox City, Texas and her Children: Melissa and Anthony Sayers of Dayton, Ohio; Derek Stovall; Sean Stovall; Heather Stovall and Nicole Stovall, all of Knox City, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; One sister: Jessie Mae Johnson and one infant brother.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

A Productive Year in '08

Santa's in Goree?

Got a request from Jerry (Brooks) Massey (Goree Class of 1955) for someone that lives in the Goree Area who could take a picture of her parents' grave. She is now living in Houston so hopefully someone can send her a picture.

Her Mother and Dad are Leroy and Lucy Brooks.

If some of you can help, email Jerry for the general location of the grave sites...Keith

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Can you believe it-Goree has a Santa Claus?
I think his name is really Santa Jimmy Claus.

At 12/24/2008 2:47:42 AM Central Standard Time, I sent an email to my Goree Group Email List.

Jimmy Claus, while having his morning cup of coffee, checked his emails. He got up, poured himself another cup of coffee, put on his coat, picked up his camera, and started for the door. His family questioned where he was going so early on Christmas Eve morning in the cold. As he crawled into the old pickup truck, he told them that he had one more gift to get in order to help someone else far away have a brighter, more memorable, Christmas.

With a cold wind blowing, Jimmy Claus walked around in the Goree Cemetery looking for the particular place noted in my email. When he found it, he circled it several times taking pictures, trying to get the best angles.

My vision of Jimmy Claus when he got back in the warm pickup is, while taking a drink of the now cooling coffee, he said a short prayer for all those buried there and their still living families.

Before noon, Jimmy Claus was back in his warm home, had processed the pictures and had emailed them to Jerry in Houston. At 12/24/2008 1:07:46 PM Central Standard Time, Jimmy Claus forwarded me a copy of the pictures.

We can all be sure that Goree still has good people that go out of their way to help with happiness of others. It is still as it was when we lived there.

Thanks Santa Jimmy Claus, you did good!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you.
Keith and Nancy

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Golly, there are a lot of Santas in the Goree area offering to help Jerry.

Let's all run down to Jerry's for New Years. She said we could stay with her (see forwarded email). We could have a big New Years party of Goree alumni. Unnn, on second thought, her husband Jimmy, and their daughter might throw us out, maybe better if we go one at a time.

Anyway, a big thank you, to all that offered to take pictures for Jerry.

Betcha there was surprise, excitement, and a few tears when Jerry opened the email from Santa Jimmy on Christmas Eve. Next, bet she called husband Jimmy and their daughter to see the pictures, maybe even called in the dog and cat too.

As my grandkids say, in the olden days, about sixty-five years ago, 1943, Jerry and I were in the first grade and believed in Santa Claus big time. Now we believe again because of Santa Jimmy. Jerry there is a Santa Claus, just this year his name is Santa Jimmy Claus.

Just passing on Jerry's email so you all know that all Goree people are being thought of this Holliday season. Keith

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HI SANTA'S HELPER,

YOU ARE SO RIGHT. I COULD NOT HAVE RECEIVED A BETTER PRESENT THAT WARMED MY HEART THAN THE PICTURES OF MY MOM AND DAD'S TOMBSTONE WITH THE BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS ON TOP, I DID NOT HAVE A PICTURE OF MY MOM'S DATE OF DEATH ON IT EITHER.

THANK YOU SO MUCH, SANTA JIMMY, YOU HAVE KEPT THE BELIEF OF SANTA AND ALL HIS GOOD DEEDS ALIVE AND THE WORLD IS A BETTER PLACE FOR HAVING YOU.

THANKS TO ALL THE GOREE PEOPLE WHO EMAILED ME AND OFFERED TO GO AND TAKE PICTURES. IF ANY OF YOU EVERY NEED A PLACE TO STAY WHILE IN HOUSTON, PLEASE CALL ME.

YOU DO NOT KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LOVE A PLACE OR THE PEOPLE UNTIL YOU LEAVE IT. THERE IS TRULY NO PLACE LIKE GOREE OR THE PEOPLE. GOD MADE A SPECIAL PLACE THERE.

GOD BLESS ALL AND LOVE TO YOU,

JERRY BROOKS MASSEY

Dimple Jetton dies at 100

(Obit from the Wichita Falls Times Record News)

Monday, December 8, 2008

GOREE, Texas — Dimple Jetton, 100, of Spearman died Friday, December 5, 2008, in Hansford Manor in Spearman, Texas.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 9, 2008, at the Goree First Baptist Church with Genoa Goad officiating. Burial will be in the Goree Cemetery under the direction of McCauley-Smith Funeral Home in Munday, Texas.

Mrs. Jetton was born April 17, 1908. She celebrated her 100th birthday this year. She was a homemaker and a member of Goree First Baptist Church. She moved from Goree to Spearman in 1985. Dimple and Sam B. Jetton were married May 26, 1946, in Munday, Texas. Mr. Jetton died February 14, 1983.

Survivors: one daughter, Lynell Williams of Spearman, Texas; two grandchildren, Lynette Babcock of Mineral Wells, Texas, and Kevin Williams of Goodwill, Oklahoma; one great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn Babcock of Mineral Wells, Texas; several nieces and nephews.

Click here: Dimple Jetton dies at 100 : Obituaries : Times Record News

A Lost Tradition...

Years ago when I was young!!! HAHA, the community used flowergirls at funerals. These girls were selected by the family of the deceased in the same way pall bearers were selected. Usually they got young teen girls. When Dimple's Mother-In-Law passed away the family wanted all 3 of us Brogden girls, even though I was too young. Our family was very close to the Jetton and Lambeth families. So the 3 of us and also my Aunt Avis Harris were selected. You carried a spray of the flowers and made a line on each side of the church door. They carried the casket through this line of flowers. Then sometimes the graveyard was just right by the church and the girls carried these flowers on to the cemetery. The last time I was a flower girl was at the funeral of our Pastor at Friendship Baptist at Hefner, when Bro. Jess Gray passed away. I remember most of the Haskin girls were, as well. It was a privilege to do this for the family. I remember Dimple quite well as a Peek and also after she married S.B. They visited in our home many times and we at theirs as well. Those were the good ole days when people had time for people. Keith, I want to tell you that we appreciate you keeping all of us informed. We get slack in saying thanks, but I personally want to thank you and hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas this year. Thanks again, Reba Brogden Mason

Back during those years the body of a deceased person was kept in the living room of the home until time for the funeral. All night and day there was someone, usually two, setting with the body. Some of you may be able to pick yourself out of the pictures (1951) below. Best I remember all the girls from the Goree High School were the Flower Girls. Reba may very well be in these pictures.

In Loving Memory~Dimple Jetton

MUNDAY — Dimple Jetton, 100, died Friday, Dec. 5, 2008, in Spearman, Texas.

Services are Tuesday at Goree First Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. with McCauley-Smith Funeral Home in Munday.

(Dimple Jetton and daughter Lynell Williams at 2005 Goree Homecoming.)

Neat happening...

Here is an interesting email that I received this morning. Just have to share....awhile ago I joined the Diva's and apparently Ms. Cornell is a member, as well. Thus our common interest sparked a conversation about her connection to our hometown.

...my reply to her email:

How cool! Yes, all of those names and stories are familiar to me. My husband is the one that is actually from Goree. I hear such wonderful stories about Doc Taylor, as they call him. My mother-in-law was a Coffman and I’ve been really interested in their heritage lately and how it fits into the historic aspect of our town. I’m trying to get several landmarks on the historical registry. We just bought the bank building where the drug store and office spaces once called home and plan on renovating it into an office space and hunting lodge. As a matter of fact, the structure got a new roof last week. I’d love to hear your remembrances. Do you have any pictures? I’m interested in the theatre and skating rink, etc. I would like to share our conversation on the Goree blog, as there are many who may be able to fill in the blanks for you.

Sincerely,
Tammie

...her email:

I saw your address as Goree in Knox County . My aunt and uncle lived there from 1906 forward. He was Dr. William Taylor and she was Bettie Madole Taylor and taught 6th grade. His office was behind the drug store. Doris (a man) was the pharmacist. Jack Hampton lived across the street from Uncle Willie and Aunt Bettie. I can't remember the next door neighbor's name, or Clarence's last name who leased the farm. I'll think of more later or maybe their full names will float up.

Best regards,
Becky Madole Cornell

See What Knox County Is Up To!!!

Remelle has updates on the affairs in and around us. First go see what Remelle, our county economic director, said about our Homecoming by clicking HERE. Then go HERE for the rest of the happenings in and around Knox County. Things are still hoppin'.

As a matter of fact, Mr. Greg Fix called last week. He and his wife bought the Lois Moore house and they called to let me know that they closed the deal. They were attracted to this house due to the fact that it reminded them of their childhood homes. They won't be moving and working (from New Mexico) here until their daughter graduates from High School in May. He also let me know that they were renting the former Peek's Service Station for his real estate office. Which is ironic considering it was an online article about 'last' service station closing that pricked their hearts and caused them to even look Goree's way.

Goree Barber Shop

The picture is in the Goree Barber Shop and, if we figured correctly that Tuffy is about 10 years old, it was made about 1941.

Eva (McSwain) Pechacek gave the picture to Jackie (Latham) Styles at the Goree Homecoming. She knew that Tuffy, her brother, is the boy in the front chair and that George Crouch is the front chair barber. I borrowed the picture from Jackie, scanned and cleaned it some, and sent it to people that remember the 1930s and 1940s. Others came up with the name of the back chair barber, Tom Cowsar. Several were sure that the person in the back chair was one of the Moore boys. I cut the heads out of a 1943 Moore family picture and sent it to others to confirm that the back chair person was Nealie Moore. I then placed date/names on the picture.

Don't forget to stop the blog song player at the very bottom of the page, or else two songs will play at the same time while watching this video...

Our prayers are with you...John Wayne and Barbara

Christopher Wayne Harris
Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Christopher Wayne Harris, 32, was born July 1, 1976 in Abilene to Gary Harris and Laura Hale Harris and was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Friday, November 14, 2008.He attended school in Abilene including Cooper High School before moving with his family to Fort Worth in 1996. He accepted Christ as his savior when he was a child and faithful member of Elmcrest Baptist Church where he was baptized by T. C. Melton and loved singing in the children's choir. Chris had a very passionate spirit, an easy laugh, caring eyes, and a quick wit and loved a practical joke. He was an avid fan of The Dallas Cowboys and The Texas Longhorns but his favorite thing was spending time with his family, especially Christmas Eve at Big John and Honey's house. He was a very affectionate person who never missed an opportunity to say "I love you".

On January 24, 1997 Chris married the love of his life, Bobbye Nell Lester, in Fort Worth. They have three children, Zachary Lynn, 11 years old, Zane Christopher, 10, and Zoye Annell, 7. Chris was a loving husband and a devoted father and was dearly loved by his family. Chris lived a lot of life in his thirty-two years. In January 2008, he suffered a stroke but as with other challenges in his life, Chris was a fighter and overcame virtually every symptom of his stroke. One day shortly after the stroke the doctor's said Chris would probably not live through the day, but he and God had other plans. Chris had a very happy and healthy ten months following the stroke. He had taken to clapping his hands and saying; "cool, cool" over any excitement.Chris had recently moved back to Abilene where he went to work for Tejas Properties Construction, immediately proving himself a quick study, a beloved co-worker, and a true asset. In prior years Chris had worked in the plumbing industry and since 2000, had been very involved with Teen Challenge Ministries. It would be Chris' wish that the Lord use his life and death to accomplish many good things, bring honor and glory to His name, and lost souls to Jesus.

He is survived by his wife, children, and parents, two brothers, John William Harris and wife, Becca, of Humble, Texas and Michael Paul Harris of N. Richland Hills and one sister, Caitlin Rebecca Harris of N. Richland Hills. Grandparents John Wayne and Barbara Harris of Abilene, Charles and Ollie Hale of McKinney, Texas and Richard and Velda Price of Centerville, Texas. He is also survived by aunts and uncles Scott Harris of Keller, Texas, Scott and Cathy McCleary and David and Paige Hale of Abilene, and Alan and Laurie Hale of Canadian, Texas. He is also survived by numerous cousins and many, many friends.

Services will be held at Broadview Baptist Church Tuesday, November 18th at 2:00 p.m., with burial to follow in Elmwood Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, November 17th at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.

Pallbearers will be Uncles Scott Harris, Scott McCleary, Alan Hale, and David Hale, Cousin Ryan Harris and friend Brent Anders.

The family suggests that memorials be made to Teen Challenge, 3850 South Loop 1604 West, San Antonio, Texas, 78264; or to the donor's favorite charity.Guest Registry and Obituary online at:www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com.

Fishin's good~real good

This was the first day's catch. The second day was almost that good. And the third was a bit less. And I'll never tell what they used for bait!

These two fellas stayed in Goree at 'A Place To Stay' for three nights and had themselves a big time. Catfish galore! These guys became aquainted in the oilfield business and are now lifelong fishing buddies. 'Grumpy', who is on the right, was on a road trip and decided to check out the lake while passing through. After seeing the huge heads on the fence posts, he decided to tell Floyd about it and they planned their next fishing adventure at Miller Creek. They'll be back and they will be telling others about their new found fishin' hole. And I'm hopin' they'll put in a good word for the lil' cabin.

The Homecoming Top Twenty

THE BEST THING ABOUT GOING TO SCHOOL IN GOREE:

20. You could say David Letterman has his Top Ten, but I'm from Goree and I have a Top Twenty.

19. The Converse basketball shoes we wore cost $5.98

18. You attended a donkey basketball game in this very gym.

17. You didn't have to have any acting skills to be in the junior or senior play.

16. You could go to Rhineland and sneak in and tour the Catholic Church at night.

15. You could climb the water tower and the night watchman would laugh at you because you got scared.

14. There were no wrestling classes.

13. The best day of school was when we had a fire drill and got to slide down the big slide.

12. You dated a Mogul, a Panther, a Greyhound or a Mustang at least once while you were in high school.

11. You wore an evening dress, not a formal, at the Halloween Coronation.

10. They didn't search your car -- if you had one -- for drugs.

9. You started to school after Labor Day.

8. You learned to type on a manual.

7. We thought there was only one language and it was Texan.

6. You knew Mrs. Moore would be your eighth grade teacher.

5. You got in trouble if you played hooky once a year.

4. You walked to school or rode a bus.

3. Text meant text books, not text messaging.

2. Your senior trip was the first time to travel out of Goree.

And the #1 best thing about growing up in Goree....

1. You could be the next homecoming speaker!

We are proud of our firemen...

Goree Fire Department was established in 1926 and is still going strong in 2008. That fire truck was bought in 1926. It is a Graham Brothers Truck. Firemen then: N.W. Roberts, Chief, Elbridge Coffman, Asst. Chief, Henry Coffman, Walter Coffman, Morgan Wright, Deaton Greene, Rubey Hammons, Jack West, Nealie Moore, Quince Hall, George Nix, Virgil Peek, Adolph Camp, Robert Couch, Max Maloney, Roy Moore, E.W. Blankenship, Jim Goode, Jot Tynes, Oakly Roberts. (This picture and info was found in the Knox County Museum of Benjamin, Texas)

Firemen now: Jason Blake, Chief, Jimmy Harlan, Grady Weaver, Randy Hibdon, Michael Castorena, JR Shumate, Trey Harlan, Wally Aguilar, Greg Blake

The City of Goree and the Homecoming Committee recognize these men and their dedication to keeping our town safe and sound, then and now. And a big thank you to all the hard work in providing the great start for our homecoming festivities. The firemen's meal was wonderful! Thanks also to those who helped them...Jeanette Blake, Casey Shumate, Cathy Weaver, Carlene Harlan, Dorothy Hibdon and Kobe Ramirez. And, last but not least, there were those who donated desserts, meat and processing....thanks to all!

Hometown Girl

"Growing up on a small Texas farm, waking each morning to hot biscuits with wild plum jam was the beginning of the day's fond memories.

Pedaling bicycles to wild plum thickets around the 4th of July added chapters to my story. From the window of my memory, I can see mom teaching me the tradition of making and giving wild plum jam.

In the Fall of 1990, with the encouragement and help of family and friends, Texas Plum Line became a reality.

Sharing Texas Plum Line with you leaves my story - to be continued..."

...that little ditty was from www.texasplumline.com and Texas Plum Line is a business that originated in Goree, Texas. I'm not sure, but I think the wild plums are still harvested from Goree. Goree Ex, Connie Haskin Bingham, is the founder of this business. She, by the way, was a speaker at our 2008 Homecoming Program along with Carl Harris and Jan Roberts. These three reminded everyone what it was like to grow up in our town and be a Goree Wildcat. If you missed these talks, then you really missed a treat! A Top Twenty Treat, even!

Homecoming pictures...hot off the press.

Homecoming Parade...

Who says Goree didn't have a homecoming parade! We raided back porches for furniture and plants on the Friday of homecoming to decorate the empty building downtown. The chiminea came in handy, it was a bit chilly at the street dance.

Homecoming Update for '08

Well, I cannot wait to share details with ya. Pictures, stories, etc. It was a wonderful homecoming and it isn't over just yet. The dance is going on as we speak and in the morning is the church services.

BETTTEERRR YET! What did you think? Be honest, now! Comment on this post and let us know...tell us what we did right so we can do it again. Tell us what (in a nice way) what we could do different or better.

Right around the corner...

In Loving Memory~David Norris Fitzgerald

David Norris Fitzgerald of Midland died at Hospice of Midland Memorial Hospital, Wednesday, September 24, 2008.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m., Monday, September 29, at Memorial Christian Church with Rev. Terry Rothermich officiating. A private burial service was held Friday, September 26 at Resthaven Memorial Park in Midland.

Born January 25, 1923 in Goree, Texas to Archie and Mamie Fitzgerald, Dave was an outstanding basketball player for the Goree High School Wildcats, staying for a second senior year so that the school could field a team. On September 8, 1942 he married Frances Camille Morrow, in Lubbock. He was a proud World War II veteran, having served across Europe as a dental assistant with the 291st Engineering Combat Battalion.

Dave was a mainstay of the Permian Basin oil business, beginning his career pumping gas, to ultimately owning several companies of his own, including Slough Equipment Company, Melco Blowout Preventer, Pheasant Rubber, Fitzgerald Electric Supply. and Fas-Line Sales and Rentals, to mention a few. He was very active in the Permian Basin International Oil Show, being chosen as the 2004 Oil Show Honoree. He served on the Board of Directors of numerous organizations including Midland National Bank, TMBR/Sharp Drilling Company, and Memorial Christian Church.

Dave was a man of great integrity and generosity, going out of his way to help those in need and serving as a mentor and friend to many. His love of life included his wife, Frances, his children and grandchildren, and his extended family, including many treasured nieces, nephews and cousins. He delighted in spending time with family, whether enjoying this home on Lake Sweetwater, counting cows on his beloved ranch in Nolan County, or touring New York City with his grandchildren. Through the years, Dave and Frances traveled the world with many dear and lasting friends.

Survivors include his wife, Frances Camille Fitzgerald, of Midland; his three daughters and their husbands, Sunnye and John Dinger, of Odessa, Suzanne and Jim Bobo, of Odessa, Lisa and Mike Herring, of Sweetwater; his six grandchildren; Scott Dinger and his wife Amanda; Jeff Dinger and his wife Michelle; Jamie Russell and her husband John; David Bobo and wife Karly; Jon Paul Bobo and wife Amelia; Brittany Jill Kessler; Mark Herring and wife Jill; and Matthew Herring and wife Cindy; twelve great-grandchildren; and sister, Jonelle Patterson.

The family suggests memorials be directed to Hospice of Midland, PO Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702; Star Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 112, Midland, Texas 79702; or Memorial Christian Church, Endowment Fund, 1001 Andrews Highway, Midland, Texas 79701.

"I shall pass through this world but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show; or any good I can do; let me do it now, let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again."

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at http://www.npwelch.com/.

Snakes are on the move!!! Be Careful!

Casey & Caroline found it in city barn
Trey, Kobie & JR on south edge of town

Hard @ Work

To drive into Goree one must exit and pass under, over, by the new overpass. It's a sad site to say the very least. The state says that they don't have enough man-power to maintain it. We as a town couldn't see the beautiful landscaping, etc. just sit there and go to waste. Sooo, the GGG got to work. Twelve volunteers (Oldies but goodies, teens, and a fourth grader) +1 if you count the baby went out last night armed with tons of gloves, two weedeaters, one push mower that wouldn't push, three tractor shredders, and lotz of gumshion. We made a huge dent in the problem, but it is not quite finished. But, knowing this bunch...I bet they get 'er done.

Water Tower...

New Sign

In Loving Memory~Radene Hutchens Turner

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Story last updated at 9/10/2008 - 1:55 am

Mrs. Radene Turner of New Home departed this life on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008, at the age of 80 years. She was born Sept.30, 1927, in Goree, to Rado and Jewel (Gass) Hutchens. Radene attended school in Goree, Draw and she graduated from Tahoka High School in 1945. Mrs. Turner attended Draughns Business College in Lubbock were she received her associate degree in 1947. Radene married Dick Turner in Tahoka on Dec. 23, 1947; he preceded her in death on Oct. 29, 1993, after 46 years of marriage. She was the bookkeeper for New Home Co-op Gin and the New Home city secretary for many years. Radene was an avid baseball and football fan; she loved playing games, especially dominos and crossword puzzles.

Those left to cherish her memory are one daughter, Judy Gandy and husband David of New Home; one son, Dickie Turner and wife Gerry of Crowley; three grandchildren, Kauy Wehe and husband Rodney of Keller, Jason Gandy and wife Meghan of Lubbock and Josh Gandy and wife Paige of Acuff; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Thena Clarke of Ruidoso, N.M.; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Turner was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a charity of your choice.
Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, 2008, at White Funeral Home in Tahoka.

Celebration of Life Services will be 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12, 2008, at the New Home Baptist Church in New Home with Rev. Kenneth McClung officiating and Rev. Calvin Gray assisting. Interment will follow in the Nevels Memorial Cemetery in Tahoka.

Arrangements are under the personal care of White Funeral Home in Tahoka. Online condolences may be sent to http://www.whitefuneralhome.com/.

Homecoming Correction!!!!

On the time for the homecoming meal on Saturday the time should be 11:30 a.m. and NOT 11:00 a.m.
Sorry for the typo, Tammie!

Saturday's Happenings...

Big Sucess!

The bake sale was a big success...sold out in two hours! We will be using the money to put glass squares in the last two windows of the structures above City Hall. A big thanks to everyone who participated!

In Loving Memory~Nadine Couch

BIG SPRING -- Nadine Couch, 90, of Big Spring died Tuesday, Sept. 2, at her residence. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. today, Sept. 4., at Goree Cemetery in Goree. The family received friends Wednesday at Myers & Smith Funeral Home.She is survived by sons Monty Couch of Odessa and Danny Couch of Andrews; daughters, Shirly Smith of Roswell, N.M., Marylon Montgomery of Big Spring and Pamela Boren of Watauga; and one sister.Arrangements are by Myers & Smith Funeral Home. Pay your respects online at www.myersandsmith.com. Published in the Midland Reporter-Telegram on 9/4/2008

Sharing an email update with the Tx Historical Commission:

April Garner is a Program Development Specialist with the Heritage Tourism Program of Texas Historical Commission. And this is an exerpt of an email that I sent her in response to her "what can we do to help" email.

April, how exciting to hear back from you so soon! I met with the Visioning Committee and Remelle just last night and I realize that things are moving fast around here! Goree doesn’t wanna get left behind in their dust.

We, as a small town of three hundred in Knox County, are partnering with the Knox County Visioning Group, a county wide effort for bettering our part of Texas. Knox County and Judge Travis Floyd are PIONEERS in this endeavor and it is a very well-known effort. Goree has recently created a 501c-3 organization, Going for Greatness in Goree Group, http://cityofgoree.org/goingforgreatnessingoree.aspx , and this group is partnering with the city government’s brand spankin new 4A/4B corporations (taxes begin in Oct) to rebirth a town. Nature and Historic Tourism are what we are after. Our county wide economic director, Remelle Ferrar, is almost finished with the marketing, maps, etc. for our very own “Adventure Trail” thru Knox County (about to be hot off the presses, saw the final draft yesterday). Goree will fit into this trail, but as things stand right now I need money to get the work started on the ‘city’ side. We have a historic jailhouse, domino hall, and a possible hotel site. We have a building that would be a perfect place for a walk thru historical museum like the one in Hico, Texas. Hunting is hot in our area and so is Miller Creek, a lake right by us. The exterior of our downtown needs awnings, sidewalks and sandblasting of the bricks.

That’s what is going on with the ‘city/county’ side of which I am involved. Now, on the personal side! My husband and I have bought the historic bank building in the downtown area (waiting on the deed). We want to restore it, as close to historic accuracy as possible. The purpose would be for our office space (which is now in our home) and the back portion would be perfect for a hunting lodge with four units. Our business, Trainham Ice & Meat, is in the buildings next door. We have already renovated a small house in Goree for a bed & breakfast and it is up and running. Remelle told me about tax incentives for our project. I’ve studied these incentives over the internet and it seems like our project qualifies. Before work begins, I am under the impression that I need to have this property and the others for the city well on the way of getting on the Natl. Registry.

Thank you for your help and guidance in our endeavors.

In Loving Memory~Sammy Kelley

Sammy H. Kelley, age 73 of Garland, TX, passed away August 31, 2008. He was born June 24, 1935, in Throckmorton County, TX, to William Henry & Verna Opal (Lewis) Kelley. Mr. Kelley proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was a Retired Dallas Fire Fighter and a member of California Lane Church of Christ. Mr. Kelley is survived by his daughters: Karie Loftin & husband Jeff of Rowlett, TX, and Kristan Kelley of Garland, TX; sisters: Colleen Sedwick of North Bend, WA, and Paula Roberts of Latham Springs, TX; brothers: Mike Kelley of Latham Springs, TX, Richard Kelley of Tyler, TX, and David Kelley of Arlington, TX; and granddaughter: Kami Kelley of Garland, TX. He was preceded in death by his wife Karen in 2001; and his parents. Funeral services will be held 10:00am, Friday, September 5, 2008, at Rest Haven Funeral Home - Rockwall Chapel with Dr. Aubrey Patterson and David Kelley officiating. Inter- ment will be in Rest Haven Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday evening at the funeral home from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

Join us for...

Friday~October 10th
· 6:00 pm~Fireman’s Bash ($6.00)
· 7:30 pm~Bingo (To play bring a prize)
· 8:00 pm~Street Dance with The J. Hollis Band

Saturday~October 11th
· 9:00 am~Registration & Continental Breakfast
· Visitation~ Goree Wildcats
· 11:30 am~Lunch by Stanley’s BBQ ($8.50)
· 2:00 pm~Master of Ceremonies, Jack Hampton

Jan Roberts~Class of ‘65
Connie Bingham~Class of ‘55
Carl Harris~Class of ‘71

· 5:00 pm~Sack Supper ($5.00)
Going for Greatness in Goree Group
· Visitation by class~Locations TBA
· 8:00 pm~Rhineland Dance with Mad Martin

Sunday~October 12th
· 10:30 am~Worship at FBC with guest speaker:

John Wayne Harris

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GOREE HOMECOMING
PO Box 33

Goree, Tx 76363

Call us: Candy @ 940-422-4900

Email us: goreehomecoming@yahoo.com

~Well, Come On Home~

Rain, Rain

Word is on the streets is...it's a floodin'. No, not floodin'...just a gulley washer outer!

Finishing Touch...

Before

After

A patio, extra beds and a driveway are among the finishing touches at the new business in town! "A Place to Stay" is open for hunters, weekenders, etc. In the past couple of months, the place has been rented a few times, but will go into full swing when hunting season opens. There are several reservations set for September. People from all over are visiting our area for recreation purposes. Let's welcome them!

Another Grant Awarded...

More money from the government???? YES!!! Shortly after receiving the afore mentioned grant for the City's 10% match, we got word that another grant application that Nancy Birkenfeld had submitted was another great success. This grant request was for $30,000 to replace water meters for the entire system due to the serious 45% water loss. We were awarded 16,500 in the form of a grant and 13,500 in the form of a low interest loan. The lost water being found will quite possibly make up the loan payment single handedly. Aren't we blessed?

Grant Awarded...

Goree got money from the Government??? Why, yes they did! The Mayor of Goree signed the paperwork for a USDA-RD grant in the amount of $9900.00 and a low interest loan for $2600.00. The City was previously awarded a grant through ORCA, but still had to come up with the 10% matching funds of $12,500.00. Goree is in desperate need of work on the water system and this money will complete a project that was left half done in a previous effort.

According to Larry Clements, Rural Development Specialist (far left), communities need to know that you can get money from the government for help with your problems. He added, "The towns who do benefit from our programs are those who have 'a mover and a shaker' like Nancy Birkenfeld." Nancy Birkenfeld is a City Councilperson who has gone the extra mile in making sure her community gets a fair shake. She, with the guidance of Mr. Clements, worked through much paperwork in order that the matching funds were sought and found. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your hard work. It, literally, paid off!

Day Dreamin' Again...

There are times when I read, hear or watch something that sends me into deep thought. My brow usually crinkles, my head sometimes tilts and my eyes gaze upward through the transoms of my hundred year old Victorian home. In those moments, visions of sugar plums dance in my head. I guess one could call it a transom trance.

I had such an experience this morning upon reading a CNN article and proclaimed, "This is it!" This is just one of the visions that we, Goree...rrrr bigger than that...Knox County, could encapsulate. Here are some of the 'buzz' phrases* that I picked up on while reading that article which was sent to me by a Goree home comer, Jan Roberts, who still longs for her hometown to be the best it can be.

• "Once we understood the vision, we chose to come here," Keith Brown said...
  
• He sees it as an opportunity to help his native area, and he likes being able to keep a fishing rod in his office that he sometimes uses on lunch breaks. The Browns are happy to be close to his family, and think this is a safer place to raise their daughter...
  
• They are both classical musicians...
  
• They miss the arts...
  
• Julia Brown is a little troubled by a lack of ethnic diversity...
  
• I think it's much better for her (daughter) to live in a more wholesome place where we're not caught up in this rat race all the time," Julia Brown said...
  
• The Browns can fly kites in their front yard when the wind is good, and Keith Brown likes to pack a picnic supper and take his daughter on walks up the hill behind their house to view the rolling landscape. Wendy is a big fan of the night sky, a spectacle masked by city lights. 'We'll get out of the car and she'll look up and she'll go 'Wow!' when it's a really clear night,' Julia Brown said. 'How many 3-year-olds notice that?'*
  

My question is how can we beckon 'big city' professionals to come home to their roots even if they've never called here home to begin with? We, KCVG, already have a plan to draw professionals with Knox County roots home, which is great. But, I thought this angle was worthy of attention, too. Let's face it, we have valid challenges. There is somewhat of a resistence from country folk towards the efforts of bringing the theatric, classical arts, music, ethnic diversity, and technological advances into our backyards. But, as the story articulates, Rural America needs to advance without losing its' sense of wholesome place in order to attract. How do you have a Starbucks lifestyle without a Starbucks? I don't know the answer, 'cuz this country girl sure loves an occasional vente caramel frappucino! (See? Even my spell check doesn't know what to do with vente or frappucino, for Pete's sake?)

*The Associated Press: CNN.com/living

Traffic Jam

Here's another old picture I found, taken sometime around 1976.
Notice the rush hour traffic jam.
Ed Hargrove

In 1955...

Comments made in the year 1955!

That's only 53 years ago!

'I'll tell you one thing, if things keep going the way they are, it's going to be impossible to buy a week's groceries for $20.00.

'Have you seen the new cars coming out next year? It won't be long before $2, 000 will only buy a used one.

'If cigarettes keep going up in price, I'm going to quit. A quarter a pack is ridiculous.

'Did you hear the post office is thinking about charging a dime just to mail a letter

'If they raise the minimum wage to $1.00, nobody will be able to hire outside help at the store.

'When I first started driving, who would have thought gas would someday cost 29 cents a gallon. Guess we'd be better off leaving the car in the garage.

'I'm afraid to send my kids to the movies any more. Ever since they let Clark Gable get by with saying D word in GONE WITH THE WIND, it seems every new movie has either H word or D word in it.

'I read the other day where some scientist thinks it's possible to put a man on the moon by the end of the century. They even have some fellows they call astronauts preparing for it down in Texas

'Did you see where some baseball player just signed a contract for $75,000 a year just to play ball? It wouldn't surprise me if someday they'll be making more than the President.

'I never thought I'd see the day all our kitchen appliances would be electric. They are even making electric typewriters now.

'It's too bad things are so tough nowadays. I see where a few married women are having to work to make ends meet.

'It won't be long before young couples are going to have to hire someone to watch their kids so they can both work.

'I'm afraid the Volkswagen car is going to open the door to a whole lot of foreign business.

'Thank goodness I won't live to see the day when the Government takes half our income in taxes. I sometimes wonder if we are electing the best people to congress.

'The drive-in restaurant is convenient in nice weather, but I seriously doubt they will ever catch on.

'There is no sense going to Lincoln or Omaha anymore for a weekend, it costs nearly $15.00 a night to stay in a hotel.

'No one can afford to be sick anymore, at $35.00 a day in the hospital it's too rich for my blood.

''If they think I'll pay 50 cents for a hair cut, forget it.'

The Scoop of Knox Prairie

A report on the three day event has been posted!

The tour of Knox County

Refreshments at Miller Creek with brief talks on Nature Toursim! The Miller Creek stop was a hit and then the crowd gathered at picnic tables on the lawn of the Memorial Building in view of the downtown for a presentation about our efforts and dreams. This was also the first opportunity for a bathroom break. There were approximately fifty people who participated. The assessment team consisted of representatives from Historical Commission, Tx Dept of Ag, Economic Development specialists, etc. Wonderful wealth of wisdom. Even with Goree in disrepair, they enjoyed the enthusiasm and heart that we, as a community, exihibit.

Nature Tourism

What fun we had gearing up for the Real Rural Tourism Symposium last Friday in preparation for tomorrow! Remelle and I toured the tour. We mapped, timed, planned and played all afternoon. Tough job, but someone had to do it. We blazed our way around Knox County and 'experienced the prairie'.

A heavy rain the night before kept us from 'experiencing' over in Vera, but that makes my excitement of the unknown grow even greater. I'm showin' up for the simple purpose of finishing what we started.

As this event plays out, it will be well worth the time and effort. The symposium is like a bridge which unites, connects and serves its' purpose. Through our county-wide connection we can accomplish something together that we couldn't alone. All of our little pieces make one beautiful picture called the Knox Prairie.


Here is a detailed schedule of the tour, click here. A lot has been going on around here due to the tour stopping in Goree and at the lake...James has the Memorial Building park mowed and spiffy, Glenn from the City has been sprucing up the street corners, Caroline and I went out to Miller Creek this morning and picked up four bags of trash, Miller Creek Ranch has dropped off refreshments for the stop at the lake and TXDOT has worked hard shredding highways and weedeating the overpass these last two days.