It’s been a busy week here in Milam County

Sometimes, so much happens in Milam County that we just need to do a recap. This is one of those weeks.

Congratulations to the Yoe High Marching Band and their fifth place finish at the state marching contest. They did a great job and speaking as a former “band nerd” I know how much hard work is required to get to that place. 

Another set of congratulations to the sports teams that made the playoffs. This season was a little bit of an off season for many of the county schools, but making the playoffs is always a great way to end the season. 

Last Saturday marked the opening of the 2024 Primary season as it was the first day to file for a place on the primary ballot for both parties here in Milam County. There are multiple races on the ballot this year with some of them already shaping up to be quite competitive. 

The following races will be on the Milam County Ballot: District Judge, County Attorney, Sheriff, Tax Assessor-Collector, the Precinct 1 and Precinct 3 County Commissioners’ offices, and the four Constable positions.

One of the competitive races is the Constable’s position in Precinct two. Current Constable Charlie West announced last week that he would not run for reelection and would be retiring at the end of his term. Charlie has been a fixture in Milam County Law Enforcement for as long as most of us can remember and he will be missed in that aspect; however, Charlie isn’t going anywhere and will always be a welcomed visitor here in this Judge’s office. Thank You Charlie for all you do and have done.

Anyone interested in running for office on a party ballot should contact the party chairs for more information. Here are the current Milam County chairs and their contact information: Democrats - Jeanette Jacoby - (910) 922-3474 and Republicans - Warren “Dude” Matous – (512) 763-9213. If you are interested in running for office as an independent, you can get more information from the Texas Secretary of States Office; their website is www.sos.texas.us

Monday in Commissioners’ Court, the Commissioners accepted donations to help pay $60,000 of the $75,000 needed to cover the monies requested from the Rockdale and Cameron City Councils and the Rockdale and Cameron ISDs to help support HOP services. 

SB Energy donated the $60,000 and were on hand to present the check to the county. We appreciate their help in this effort as do the riders who rely on the HOP for transportation. The Milam County Commissioners’ Court thanks SB Energy for their help and their generous donation.

As we move into the holidays, there are several first events that will take place this week. This Thursday evening will see the lighting of the Rockdale Community Christmas Tree and the first of many “Sip and Shops” put on by Rockdale businesses for the holidays. These are always a good time and it’s great to see the kids’ faces when the Christmas tree is all lit up. Thanks to Riot for sponsoring the tree. 

This Thursday will also see the lighting of the square in Cameron. Then, the Cameron Christmas Parade and Festival will be on Dec. 7. There are lots of activities planned for this event with local businesses staying open late, vendors and food trucks on the square, fireworks, and the opportunity to get your picture taken with Santa as he visits for the evening. 

These are just the few events that happen in the next week. Likewise, not to be left out, Milano, Thorndale, and Buckholts will also have parades and festivals that I will highlight in the next few weeks as they get closer. It’s good to live in a county that still holds these old-fashioned events and still knows how to make folks feel welcome. Thanks to all who help to put these events on.

Lastly, next week is Thanksgiving and it’s time to start thinking about our neighbors and family who need some help. Please remember these folks and if you have the chance help out the food pantries as you can. Likewise, if you need some help, please ask. Anyone needing information on how to contact these organizations please give our office a call here at the courthouse at (254) 697-7000.