In just four more days, we will say “good-bye” to 2017 and ring in the New Year.
It has been an interesting twelve months, to say the least.
There have been several good-news stories to happen in Freestone County, Texas.
Here are ten of our favorites:
1. The “birth” of Freestone Medical Center. As midnight chimed in on January 1, 2017, Fairfield Hospital Board member, Sherry Brackens, and CEO Stace Holland, marked the transition from ETMC to Fairfield’s new hospital.
2. Celebration of gospel-blues musician, George Washington Phillips. Following several years of research, author and music critic, Michael Corcoran, introduced his new book, “Washington Phillips and His Manzarene Dreams,” to the people of Teague, Texas. Unbeknownst to his friends and neighbors, the late jack-leg preacher from the Simsboro community had recorded 18 songs with Columbia Record between 1927 and 1929.
Phillip’s unique music, created with an instrument he called a Manzarene, has garnered fans from around the world and, recently, a Grammy nomination.
3. Teague High School Senior Raises Funds for Law Enforcement. Through raffles, bake sales and various donations, Megan Martin of Teague raised enough funds to outfit every full-time law enforcement officer in Freestone County with special ballistic plates. Designed to protect against high-powered munitions, a total of 96 plates were purchased.
4. Freestone County Museum Observes 50-Year Anniversary. Celebrating with music, stories and new exhibits, Freestone County Historical Museum marked their 50th year of preserving the history of our county. The Museum is under the direction of Curator Patricia Pratt and Board members: MUSEUM Leslie Tate, Sherrie Minze, Linda Mullen, Nancy Rula, Brad Pullin, Ralph Billings, Muriel Morton and Don Awalt.
5. Fairfield Library Awarded Over $49,000 for Renovation Grant. Receiving a new look this year, thanks to a substantial grant from the Tocker Foundation, Fairfield Public Library held their Grand Opening in August. The new space includes a Lego table in the kids section, a collaborative table with video console in the teen section, 16 computer stations and counter table with chargers for personal laptops.
Instrumental in the recent improvements are many community volunteers, including Library Board members: President Lyle Red, Vice-President Scott Mills, Secretary Ralph Billings, Treasurer Gena Robinson, Cristi Allred, Carol Bradley, Rachel Bossier, Tammy Gawryszewski, and Christine Manning. Serving as Library Director is Gary Wiggins.
6. Restoration of 1936 Fire Truck. Parked on the grounds of the Freestone County Museum for decades, the 1936 Fairfield Fire Truck was beautifully restored, and made its debut during the Freestone County Fair parade in June. Completing the project were Steve White, owner of S&M Radiator Muffler, Carroll Embry, Bill Green, and Sharon Embry.
7. Business After Hours Event Launched by Fairfield Chamber. A monthly mixer has become very popular for Fairfield-area business owners and professionals, this year. Hosted at local restaurants and small businesses, the casual event offers games, door prizes, an inspirational talk and networking opportunities.
8. Armadillo Races Take Off for Patriotic Holiday. Last seen in Freestone County in 1961, the fast and furious Armadillo Races returned this year during the Fourth of July celebration at the fairgrounds in Fairfield, Texas. Untouched by ludicrous player salaries, the armadillos race only for joy and earthworms. Celebrity racers included Quesa Dillo-Bump and her husband, Speed Bump, and his brother, Shelldon Bump.
9. Teague Baseball Field Renamed. Dedicated in honor of the Teague Lions’ most dedicated sports fan, the late Chad Thomas, the baseball field in Teague was renamed this year. Instrumental in making the change were City of Teague, Teague Baseball & Softball Association, Taber Foley, and Aaron Griffith Welding, along with the support of numerous friends and family.
10. Freestone County Answers the Call for Help. Opening their arms to hurricane evacuees, and traveling south to aid in rescue efforts, residents of Freestone County were quick to give assistance as Hurricane Harvey flooded the Gulf Coast region. Donations poured in to local fire departments, churches, city hall, and even local hotels.
The quickly-formed FREECO Disaster Relief Volunteer Group coordinated with local efforts and, in conjunction with Tri-County Golf club, raised over $6,000 the following month during a concert benefit. Several former evacuees returned to attend the event, referring to the area as their second home.
