From a grandmother who knows nothing, nada, zip about sports, but who understands passion, excitement, and committment, and who recognizes that Snyder can boast of something other than oil and wind.
In all of my years of living in other states and cities, it as been part of my life story to talk of Snyder. It has not been unusual for me to find interested listeners ...everyone wants stories of the wild west, the colorful characters, and I could always find strangers in California, Louisiana, New Mexico who wanted "one more story about the man who had a beef with the town and wouldn't come past the City Limits".
But now I would like to revisit my past and tell another kind of story about Snyder.I would love to brag bigtime about something Snyder is doing so right. So right that it could be a model for all the silliness we hear about in other parts of the country. What we see with ill-spent money, with lost values among the youth, with wild marketing plans that promise much and cannot deliver.
Here's what I would do. I would wait until someone asked me THE question: "where do you come from?", and then I would say, " from Snyder, Texas, a little town in far West Texas that has the best kept secret for revitalizing, renewing, recharging the malaise that prevades. I come from a town which has The Answer ." And then, I would start bragging....
Snyder is a town with a Junior College. Nothing new there, lots of little towns across the country have a Junior College. This Junior College , Western Texas College by name, has a thoughtful, intelligent Board. Nothing new here. Then, this hardworking, conscientuous Board hired a president who thinks outside of the box. That's a step up from the usual; lots of Junior Colleges hire presidents who want to do good things but may not be humble enough to accept advice. This particular Junior College president, Mike Dreith by name, listened to recommendations, he studied the conference. He worked hard to make a choice that would benefit everyone. So he set the stage for something that Snyder can truly brag about.
So, Coach Jason Sutter comes on the scene. Probably lots of fans have seen Jason during a basketball game. They enjoy his enthusiasm. They can enjoy the game, played by the tallest boys they have ever seen, doing what a good team does....play as a team. But if only everyone in Snyder knew Jason's story, his recruiting methods and his coaching style, we could brag about our town wherever we go....to Granbury, to Las Vegas, to New York, and even on cruises.
There is much more to tell about Jason, Western Texas College and the leadership of that institution, but that's another blog. This one is to go on record - Snyder has something to brag about.....
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
For Your Information
and this blog is dedicated for your information.....Starting today, you will be seeing postings from me, and others who have something to say about "what we can do in Snyder to_______" (you finish the sentence.
Let's have some input on how we can get some things done, who really cares what happens to Snyder, and what we want to happen in our town.
Feel free to respond, ask questions, answer questions, and generally just jump right in to make Snyder truly the best little town in West Texas.....
Let's have some input on how we can get some things done, who really cares what happens to Snyder, and what we want to happen in our town.
Feel free to respond, ask questions, answer questions, and generally just jump right in to make Snyder truly the best little town in West Texas.....
Monday, August 4, 2008
County Commissioners Court
County Commissioner Court met on Monday, August 4, 2008 at 8:30 am. All commissioners were present and the meeting was called to order by Judge Waller. Terry Williams opened with prayer and pledges to both the American and State of Texas Flags were recited.
Wade Warren submitted a letter of resignation from the county appointed board of managers of Cogdell Memorial Hospital. Warren explained, "that he had no plans to run for a spot in the spring and by resigning now, hopes the court or the new board will select someone from one of the two precincts to become familiar enough with the operations to be a candidate in the first election."
One bid from Abilene for a truck for Precinct 3 was opened and reviewed. It was for a 2003 Freightliner CL 120 at $39,500. Howard Limmer made a motion to accept the bid and was seconded by Mr. House. The motion passed
Discussion concerning the pool construction in Towle Park proved that to wait only costs money. Prices continue to rise. "The bid of $1.4 million today was not that far out of line over the $900,000 budgeted a year ago due to these increases", stated Terry Williams. Terry Brannon explained that "dropping items to try to keep it in line with your budget" could be addressed. Howard Limmer stated that making some of the changes "Would not make much difference."
Both Choloanne Lindsey, Pct 4 and Judge Waller "hated to start taking stuff out."
The $15,000 contingency if construction hit rock could be used ONLY if rock was hit and then charge the county instead of having it in original budge. Larry Thompson presented discussion concerning fence, splash pad and pool entrances. "If you're going to play, you should have to pay," was Mr. Thompson's comment. Linsey, stated "I don't think we can start doing that since we're not charging now," with reference to splash pad use. Thompson fells strongly that the expenses and upkeep on the pad would justify a charge that would allow citizens to use the pool and pad for the initial entrance fee. The number of diving boards was kept at two, not having lockers, the rock contingency and putting the pump equipment above ground were the amendment's made to the original pool design and then passed by the commissioners.
Tom Mann from the Council of Governments (COG) spoke to the court concerning a mobile communications trailer that will be placed in Scurry County but can be used by 19 West Texas COG counties. "We learned a lot of lessons after 9/11 about difficulties with interdepartmental communications" Mr. Mann stated. This trailer will be a self-contained, self- sufficient command center with mobile communications interconnecting VHF, UHF, 700 MHz and 800MHz radios enabling communication systems to be connected regardless of radio systems. The county will pay the $140,00 needed for construction but will be reimbursed next year using FY2007 Homeland Security Grant funds. The mobile unite will be housed and stored in Scurry County. Mr. Mann stated "the command unit should be used daily not just parked." The construction of the unit will begin today with an expected delivery date of January 2009. The trailer will need to be secured and protected from vandalism and weather.
Cy Posey, Fire Marshall reported that trucks for the department continue to be worked on and kept effective for use by the firemen. One of the two brush trucks the county voted paid for should be up and running soon. Experience on the first will be beneficial when working on the second and speed up that process.
Linsdey from Pct 4 ask that bids be taken for a vibrating roller to speed up work on the many caliche roads in the precinct.
Budget line item transfers and paying of bills were discussed and passed.
The meeting was adjourned with another meeting scheduled for Tuesday August 5, 2008 at 10 am. A tentative work session is scheduled for Thursday, August 14, 2008 if needed.
Wade Warren submitted a letter of resignation from the county appointed board of managers of Cogdell Memorial Hospital. Warren explained, "that he had no plans to run for a spot in the spring and by resigning now, hopes the court or the new board will select someone from one of the two precincts to become familiar enough with the operations to be a candidate in the first election."
One bid from Abilene for a truck for Precinct 3 was opened and reviewed. It was for a 2003 Freightliner CL 120 at $39,500. Howard Limmer made a motion to accept the bid and was seconded by Mr. House. The motion passed
Discussion concerning the pool construction in Towle Park proved that to wait only costs money. Prices continue to rise. "The bid of $1.4 million today was not that far out of line over the $900,000 budgeted a year ago due to these increases", stated Terry Williams. Terry Brannon explained that "dropping items to try to keep it in line with your budget" could be addressed. Howard Limmer stated that making some of the changes "Would not make much difference."
Both Choloanne Lindsey, Pct 4 and Judge Waller "hated to start taking stuff out."
The $15,000 contingency if construction hit rock could be used ONLY if rock was hit and then charge the county instead of having it in original budge. Larry Thompson presented discussion concerning fence, splash pad and pool entrances. "If you're going to play, you should have to pay," was Mr. Thompson's comment. Linsey, stated "I don't think we can start doing that since we're not charging now," with reference to splash pad use. Thompson fells strongly that the expenses and upkeep on the pad would justify a charge that would allow citizens to use the pool and pad for the initial entrance fee. The number of diving boards was kept at two, not having lockers, the rock contingency and putting the pump equipment above ground were the amendment's made to the original pool design and then passed by the commissioners.
Tom Mann from the Council of Governments (COG) spoke to the court concerning a mobile communications trailer that will be placed in Scurry County but can be used by 19 West Texas COG counties. "We learned a lot of lessons after 9/11 about difficulties with interdepartmental communications" Mr. Mann stated. This trailer will be a self-contained, self- sufficient command center with mobile communications interconnecting VHF, UHF, 700 MHz and 800MHz radios enabling communication systems to be connected regardless of radio systems. The county will pay the $140,00 needed for construction but will be reimbursed next year using FY2007 Homeland Security Grant funds. The mobile unite will be housed and stored in Scurry County. Mr. Mann stated "the command unit should be used daily not just parked." The construction of the unit will begin today with an expected delivery date of January 2009. The trailer will need to be secured and protected from vandalism and weather.
Cy Posey, Fire Marshall reported that trucks for the department continue to be worked on and kept effective for use by the firemen. One of the two brush trucks the county voted paid for should be up and running soon. Experience on the first will be beneficial when working on the second and speed up that process.
Linsdey from Pct 4 ask that bids be taken for a vibrating roller to speed up work on the many caliche roads in the precinct.
Budget line item transfers and paying of bills were discussed and passed.
The meeting was adjourned with another meeting scheduled for Tuesday August 5, 2008 at 10 am. A tentative work session is scheduled for Thursday, August 14, 2008 if needed.
Scurry County Commissioners July 28, 2008
County Commissioners met on July 28, 2008 at 10am to hear budget requests as they continue working on the 2009 budget. This work session heard from several entities.
Gene from the Golf Course requested an additional full-time employee and to keep up with rising costs involving fuel, grease and maintenance move excess funds from other lines to this expenditure. Chemicals and fertilizer line would remain the same. A John Deer Debris Blower valued at $2,600 would be a valuable asset to crews. Progress at the course continues, water lines have been replaced and work continues on outdated and old irrigation lines and heads. Cooperation between the Green's Committee, Precinct 2 and the commissioners are contributing factors to efforts being made at the course. The improvements have increased activity and interest in the course. Judge Waller responded by saying, "We will consider the requests."
Sheriff Jackson requested a new Basic 12-15 passenger van that can be equipped with a cage to separate male, female prisoners as well as protect the driver. The cage won't be permanent and can be moved from van to van. Sheriff Jackson then questioned the court why his salary increase was based on his base salary 12 years ago. His salary compared to new hires and current EMS director is lower. His request for a salary increase had four key components to be taken into consideration: size of department, responsibility, liability and supervision. Terry Williams responded by saying "that a comparison study of other counties with similar attributes shows Scurry County to be in line." Mr. Williams then stated that "the EMS salary was justified due to the medical training required for that position." Mr. Williams stated, "it would be hard to replace EMS director, but if you resigned, there would be a line for the Sheriff position." In further discussion, how to better use orange and white crews, Sheriff Jackson stated that more certified Precinct Jailers would be beneficial. Jailers would need to understand that they must demand respect from crews and supervision is a must so that the crews would be productive in their assigned tasks. Sheriff Jackson also stated, "certified, licensed, inmates can be utilized quite efficiently by the county when available." (ie plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc)
Airport discussions pursued ways to decrease the requests for new hangers and repair of the large hanger roof. It was recommended that "carport" type hangers will be sufficient and patching the leaks in the large hanger be done with sealants and caulk.
Until final tax evaluations are complete and the county has a dollar amount to work with for 2009, budget decisions will be put on hold.
Gene from the Golf Course requested an additional full-time employee and to keep up with rising costs involving fuel, grease and maintenance move excess funds from other lines to this expenditure. Chemicals and fertilizer line would remain the same. A John Deer Debris Blower valued at $2,600 would be a valuable asset to crews. Progress at the course continues, water lines have been replaced and work continues on outdated and old irrigation lines and heads. Cooperation between the Green's Committee, Precinct 2 and the commissioners are contributing factors to efforts being made at the course. The improvements have increased activity and interest in the course. Judge Waller responded by saying, "We will consider the requests."
Sheriff Jackson requested a new Basic 12-15 passenger van that can be equipped with a cage to separate male, female prisoners as well as protect the driver. The cage won't be permanent and can be moved from van to van. Sheriff Jackson then questioned the court why his salary increase was based on his base salary 12 years ago. His salary compared to new hires and current EMS director is lower. His request for a salary increase had four key components to be taken into consideration: size of department, responsibility, liability and supervision. Terry Williams responded by saying "that a comparison study of other counties with similar attributes shows Scurry County to be in line." Mr. Williams then stated that "the EMS salary was justified due to the medical training required for that position." Mr. Williams stated, "it would be hard to replace EMS director, but if you resigned, there would be a line for the Sheriff position." In further discussion, how to better use orange and white crews, Sheriff Jackson stated that more certified Precinct Jailers would be beneficial. Jailers would need to understand that they must demand respect from crews and supervision is a must so that the crews would be productive in their assigned tasks. Sheriff Jackson also stated, "certified, licensed, inmates can be utilized quite efficiently by the county when available." (ie plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc)
Airport discussions pursued ways to decrease the requests for new hangers and repair of the large hanger roof. It was recommended that "carport" type hangers will be sufficient and patching the leaks in the large hanger be done with sealants and caulk.
Until final tax evaluations are complete and the county has a dollar amount to work with for 2009, budget decisions will be put on hold.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Scurry County Arts Alliance
The Scurry County Arts Alliance met Tuesday July 22, 2008 at the Dermott School. There were 17 in attendance. Jennifer Wells from Therapy on The Square reported that her ceramics demonstration for Saturday on The Square was met with much success having about 14 working on projects. They will be completed Saturday July 26.
Chef Paul from Hot Springs, Arkansas brought excitement and ideas to consider as the Alliance prepares well into the 2009 Calendar.
Blake Robertson, a 2005 SHS grad and a senior at Texas Christian University, a member of the Not Quite Ready for Broadway Company enlightened the group with what performances would be held at THE RITZ for the next month.
Paula Hatfield updated the group on the fund raising project: 18 Month Calendar showing dates to remember for community meetings, all three area schools, as well as WTC events on campus and at The Coliseum. The calendar should be available to the community before August 25 when all schools and WTC begin classes.
Chef Paul from Hot Springs, Arkansas brought excitement and ideas to consider as the Alliance prepares well into the 2009 Calendar.
Blake Robertson, a 2005 SHS grad and a senior at Texas Christian University, a member of the Not Quite Ready for Broadway Company enlightened the group with what performances would be held at THE RITZ for the next month.
Paula Hatfield updated the group on the fund raising project: 18 Month Calendar showing dates to remember for community meetings, all three area schools, as well as WTC events on campus and at The Coliseum. The calendar should be available to the community before August 25 when all schools and WTC begin classes.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Snyder City Council Meeting July 7, 2008
The City Council met in chambers beginning at 5:30 pm with prayer by Mayor Noah followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Council members in attendance were Mayor Noah, Vernest Tippens, John Reed, Terry Martin, Bill Harris, City Manager Merle Taylor, City Secretary Jeanne Johnson. Stephanie Deucheneaux was absent. Visitors introduced themselves.
Mayor Noah introduced and recognized the Employee of the Month David Nicholson. He was praised for his hard work and dedication on the job to the City of Snyder.
Minutes from previous meetings on June 2 and June 16 were approved unanimously by the council.
Insurance benefits were discussed at length by the council. Blue Cross Blue Shield; TML; and
R H Administrators, Inc were represented. After the presentations were made the council voted to use Blue Cross Blue Shield as the employee insurance company.
Old business item concerning "The Colortyme/Hodges Burnout" drew discussion on how to best benefit the city. Paperwork with the county has been filed to meet the necessary guidelines to sell the property. The Council voted to accept sealed bids with stipulations that will insure the property will be developed/maintained. A minimum bid of $5,000 was agreed upon and assurance that the new owner will provide construction plans and proof of loan application in a time frame of 3-6 months. Any construction will have to meet all city building codes. This information in a formal and legal presentation will be brought back before the council.
Motions were made and passed to approve the quarterly investment report; Hazard Mitigation Action Plan; and the City of Snyder to accept credit card payments for fines, fees, court costs and other charges and assess a service charge that will be authorized by the City Manager to contract encumbrance of credit cards, make deposits of fees and services to the City's General Fund.
A resolution prohibiting on street parking at the locations described as the East bound right of way of the 1800 block of Huffman Avenue; and the North bound right of way of the 700 block of N. College Avenue (S.H. 208) was passed.
The council approved Resolution R080707C that will execute a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Snyder and The Housing Authority (located in Big Spring) to collaborate efforts in providing affordable housing opportunities to the citizens of Snyder.
Personnel Policies, Section 4.2 J Compensation Plan was amended and passed to include a "On Call/Stand--By Pay for two employees in the Street, Water Distribution, and Sewer Lines departments at a rate of $12.00/day. The designated employees should respond within 20 minutes of notification of concern.
Sue Mercer, ONCOR, presented information in support of Resolution R080707D that allows the city to suspend the Augusts 8, 2008 effective date of ONCOR's requested rate change. This will allow the city time to study the request and to establish reasonable rates. This also approves cooperation with ONCOR cities steering committee to hire legal and consulting services, to negotiate with the company, and direct any necessary litigation and appeals. This resolution was discussed and passed by the council.
At this time a brief recess was taken by the council and visitors.
The council then moved to the monthly cash disbursement report which was reviewed, discussed and passed.
The monthly personnel report shows there are 5 vacancies and no applications at this time.
Motions made by Reed and Harris were made to adjourn at 8pm.
The next regular City Council Meeting is set for August 4, 2008 at 5:30 pm in City Council Chambers.
Mayor Noah introduced and recognized the Employee of the Month David Nicholson. He was praised for his hard work and dedication on the job to the City of Snyder.
Minutes from previous meetings on June 2 and June 16 were approved unanimously by the council.
Insurance benefits were discussed at length by the council. Blue Cross Blue Shield; TML; and
R H Administrators, Inc were represented. After the presentations were made the council voted to use Blue Cross Blue Shield as the employee insurance company.
Old business item concerning "The Colortyme/Hodges Burnout" drew discussion on how to best benefit the city. Paperwork with the county has been filed to meet the necessary guidelines to sell the property. The Council voted to accept sealed bids with stipulations that will insure the property will be developed/maintained. A minimum bid of $5,000 was agreed upon and assurance that the new owner will provide construction plans and proof of loan application in a time frame of 3-6 months. Any construction will have to meet all city building codes. This information in a formal and legal presentation will be brought back before the council.
Motions were made and passed to approve the quarterly investment report; Hazard Mitigation Action Plan; and the City of Snyder to accept credit card payments for fines, fees, court costs and other charges and assess a service charge that will be authorized by the City Manager to contract encumbrance of credit cards, make deposits of fees and services to the City's General Fund.
A resolution prohibiting on street parking at the locations described as the East bound right of way of the 1800 block of Huffman Avenue; and the North bound right of way of the 700 block of N. College Avenue (S.H. 208) was passed.
The council approved Resolution R080707C that will execute a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Snyder and The Housing Authority (located in Big Spring) to collaborate efforts in providing affordable housing opportunities to the citizens of Snyder.
Personnel Policies, Section 4.2 J Compensation Plan was amended and passed to include a "On Call/Stand--By Pay for two employees in the Street, Water Distribution, and Sewer Lines departments at a rate of $12.00/day. The designated employees should respond within 20 minutes of notification of concern.
Sue Mercer, ONCOR, presented information in support of Resolution R080707D that allows the city to suspend the Augusts 8, 2008 effective date of ONCOR's requested rate change. This will allow the city time to study the request and to establish reasonable rates. This also approves cooperation with ONCOR cities steering committee to hire legal and consulting services, to negotiate with the company, and direct any necessary litigation and appeals. This resolution was discussed and passed by the council.
At this time a brief recess was taken by the council and visitors.
The council then moved to the monthly cash disbursement report which was reviewed, discussed and passed.
The monthly personnel report shows there are 5 vacancies and no applications at this time.
Motions made by Reed and Harris were made to adjourn at 8pm.
The next regular City Council Meeting is set for August 4, 2008 at 5:30 pm in City Council Chambers.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Happenings In Scurry County--Mark your Calendar
SNYDER DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION
FARMERS' MARKET
Every Saturday (except July 5) 7am - noon East Side of Square
Bring your fresh fruits/vegetables; plant; crafts
JULY 4th Celebrate with activities in Towle Park and don't forget to catch the Parade
SCURRY COUNTY ARTS ALLIANCE will meet Tuesday July 22, 2008 6:30 pm at the Dermott School. Mission Statement: Recognizing that the ways we live, survive, work, and create are part of our identity, the Scurry County Arts Alliance celebrates the creativity, heritage, and character unique to West Texas through workshops, presentations, outreach, education, and support.
Visit www.scurrycountyarts.org for upcoming events and join this committed group of individuals with a vision to promote arts in the community.
WHAT IS GOING ON IN SCURRY COUNTY? The Scurry County Arts Alliance is preparing an 18 month calendar as a fund raiser that will give residents of the county an opportunity to see what is going on at a glance. On sale in August.
27TH ANNUAL CANYON GUN, KNIFE, COIN SHOW
August 2nd and 3rd
The Coliseum
Admission $3.00 (children 12 & under free/parent)
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY and residents of Scurry County have joined efforts to raise awareness about a worthwhile project: HOPE LODGE (see related story) Further details about how YOU can become involved is forthcoming.
FARMERS' MARKET
Every Saturday (except July 5) 7am - noon East Side of Square
Bring your fresh fruits/vegetables; plant; crafts
JULY 4th Celebrate with activities in Towle Park and don't forget to catch the Parade
SCURRY COUNTY ARTS ALLIANCE will meet Tuesday July 22, 2008 6:30 pm at the Dermott School. Mission Statement: Recognizing that the ways we live, survive, work, and create are part of our identity, the Scurry County Arts Alliance celebrates the creativity, heritage, and character unique to West Texas through workshops, presentations, outreach, education, and support.
Visit www.scurrycountyarts.org for upcoming events and join this committed group of individuals with a vision to promote arts in the community.
WHAT IS GOING ON IN SCURRY COUNTY? The Scurry County Arts Alliance is preparing an 18 month calendar as a fund raiser that will give residents of the county an opportunity to see what is going on at a glance. On sale in August.
27TH ANNUAL CANYON GUN, KNIFE, COIN SHOW
August 2nd and 3rd
The Coliseum
Admission $3.00 (children 12 & under free/parent)
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY and residents of Scurry County have joined efforts to raise awareness about a worthwhile project: HOPE LODGE (see related story) Further details about how YOU can become involved is forthcoming.
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