Commissioners update on Covid-19 status
Wilbarger County Judge Greg Tyra reported that local nursing homes have been tested by state and he had received no reports of coronavirus from that testing. Testing of state employees at all three campuses of North Texas State Hospital is also underway, and results will be reported at a later date. There are no new…
Read MoreCampaigning begins in earnest for runoff election
Ronny Jackson, a candidate for U.S. House District 13, visited with Vernon residents during a meet-and-greet this week at a local restaurant. Jackson is in a runoff election with Josh Winegarner to replace Mac Thornberry. The runoff will be July 14. More from the candidates along with sample ballots will be in a special voting…
Read MoreBDC supports effort to bring five jobs to Vernon
The Vernon Business Development Corporation offered an economic incentive package to a local manufacturer in hopes of bring more jobs to the community. Ricky Rater, owner of Pearson Livestock Equipment, met with BDC board of directors on Wednesday, May 20, saying his business was looking to become more efficient in its operations to remain…
Read MoreGovernor Abbott announces Phase III to Open Texas
Governor Greg Abbott, on Wednesday, announced the third phase of the State of Texas’ plan to safely open the economy while containing the spread of COVID-19. Under Phase III, effective immediately, all businesses in Texas will be able to operate at up to 50% capacity, with very limited exceptions. Business that previously have been able…
Read MoreGosline is first woman to serve as mayor of Vernon
Pam Gosline is Vernon’s new mayor. In an historic first, she becomes the first woman to serve as mayor of Vernon. She took over following the resignation of Doug Jeffrey, officially accepted on Tuesday night. Gosline was the only candidate for mayor, and in a normal year would have assumed office in May. However, due…
Read MoreGov. Abbott says hair, nail salons can open Friday
Governor Greg Abbott on Tuesday, held a press conference where announced that he is issuing an Executive Order to expand openings of certain businesses and activities. The Governor also announced new guidance from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on graduation ceremonies and the creation of Surge Response Teams to combat any COVID-19 flare ups in…
Read MoreWilbarger County offices operating by appointment only
Wilbarger County offices will now be operating by appointment only. Access to the courthouse will be limited after the Wilbarger County Commissioners held an emergency meeting Monday to discuss the coronavirus. Judge Greg Tyra asked the Commissioners Court to ratify a declaration of emergency last Monday, which he had proclaimed earlier. The declaration would expire…
Read MoreRestaurants struggle to stay open
Vernon restaurants and the Vernon Plaza movie theater are facing an unprecedented challenge after Gov. Greg Abbott issued an order closing them. Gov. Abbott, on Thursday, issued an executive order that will close restaurants and schools, among other things to combat the spread of the coronavirus. During a news conference at the state Capitol, Abbott…
Read MoreCounty schools grapple with changing conditions
Wilbarger County schools will be shut down this week, with plans to offer online distance learning, starting March 30 as well as meals to students. The details on how that will work are still being ironed out this week by school staff. The rapidly shifting conditions have created nightmares for local schools trying to develop…
Read MoreRailroad Commission’s Wayne Christian discusses oil market
AUSTIN – As Saudi Arabia and Russia flood the international energy market with a glut of crude oil, prices have dropped to unsustainable levels that threaten the future of the Texas oil and gas industry, its associated benefits to the state economy, and American energy dominance. The United States recently became the largest producer…
Read More