County Judge David Hullum concluded the Burn Ban should remain in place. He added that several county department chiefs punishable by a fine.)

expressed the same opinion. All County Commissioners were in agreement. (Please note: A violation of the Burn Ban Order is a Class C misdemeanor, Temperatures are hovering in the high 90’s - 100s in Texas momentarily. Although Eastland County was blessed with rain in past weeks, no precipitation is in the immediate forecast and some areas are becoming dry.

The Consent Agenda, placed at the beginning of the meeting, covers “non-conventional and routine matters” on which the court may act on with one single vote. Items may be moved to the regular agenda if necessary.

At Monday’s meeting, Auditor Loretta Key and Treasurer Christina Dodrill answered at few inquiries, mostly regarding indigent health care funds or fees. Judge Hullum commented that the county was doing well with indigent health care funds. He expressed the opinion the funds were going to people who did really need them.

County Clerk Kathy Jentho presented names of individuals receiving Completion for Open Meetings Act, Public Information Act, AI Certificates of Course

training and Cybersecurity training.

The Consent Agenda, which also includes approving previous minutes, budgetary and appropriative matters, bill, claims and accounts was approved

unanimously.

ument officially autho In Business to be discussed, following the burn ban, Commissioners approved an Indigent Defense Grant Resolution presented by Judge Hullum. The docrizes the county to apply for and accept funding from the Texas Indigent Defense Commission to subsidize local court-appointed attorney fees for low-income defendants, according to sources, and is adopted annually.

Approval for the purchasing of a 2019 International LT 625 haul cent 4).

truck, and payments for the truck were approved. This item was brought to the agenda by Commissioner Robert Rains (Pre Two items presented by Treasurer Dodrill were approved for employee payroll deduction: AirMedCare Network

(AMCN) Membership (Fly-U-Home) - (con Grandfather-x2 (twins), a tiguous 48 states) - and - AMCN-Fly-U-Home (global).

the fiscal year 2027 pro The Court closed out the meeting with discussion and consideration of posed budget. Monday’s discussion included mainly elections issues, Auditor Key explained, such as monetary increases for a line item.

On a lighter side, Judge Hullum reminded that congratulations were in order to Commissioner Rains on becoming a new girl and a boy.

***** Please Note: A special meeting of the Eastland County Commissioner’s Court will meet on Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 9:00 AM in the Eastland County Commissioners’ Courtroom, Eastland Texas, to discuss and consider appointing Eastland County Appraisal District Chief Appraiser Randy Clark Designated Officer for the 2026 tax year and authorize him to calculate No-New-Revenue Rate, Voter Approval Rate, De Minimus Rate, and prior years actual collection rates.

1) DECLARE 2) PRAYER AND PLEDGE 3) Discuss and ignated Officer for the banks received a Certificate of Appreciation from

consider appointing Eastland County Appraisal District Appraiser Randy Clark Des-2026 tax year and authorize him to calculate No-New-Revenue Rate, Voter Approval Rate, De Minimus Rate, and prior years actual collection rates.

***** Posted by order of Eastland County Commissioner’s Court Any of the above

4) Adjournment

and foregoing agenda items, which require action, may be acted upon by the Commissioner’s Court Eastland Count Commissioners’ Court may vote an/or act upon each of the items listed in this Agenda.

The Court reserves the right to retire into executive session whenever it is considered necessary and the Open Meetings Act.

legally justified under

Secondly, the residents were anything but ing between council members that has led to a “hostile work environment,” and the resignation of Eastland City Manager Savannah Fortenberry during a heated meeting last week.

During the meeting, multiple residents spoke for more than an hour, urging the council to happy with the in-fight curb the in-fighting, and demanded that Councilman Joe Williamson, Hackney and former mayor Larry Vernon work harder to be productive members of the board.

After the public discussion, the council held a public executive session to discuss the situation with Eastland Police Chief Tim Pitts. During an outburst at the council’s previous meeting, Pitts became embroiled in a verbal exchange with Williamson, and was escorted out of the building.

Shortly afterward, a the city by Williamson, and Hackney asked the city attorney to draft an agenda calling a special meeting to discuss Pitts’ outburst. Both the com- complaint was filed with

Pitts’ personnel file.

plaint and note from Hackney were placed in During the meeting, Vernon said the meeting to discuss any reprimand to Pitts was unnecessary as the police chief had done nothing wrong. He also asked that both documents be permanently removed ately.

After the decision, Pitts and Williamson from Pitts’ file immedi

both agreed to put their personal difference aside to work for the betterment of the city.

The council approved the motion unanimously with Williamson providing the second.

In other action, the council approved the hiring of Ron Holliday as the interim city manager, effective July 28.

The Friendship Meal will be this coming Tuesday, August 4th, 2026.

The supper in Eastland takes place every month, it is It’s a home-cooked meal, and anyone

the first Tuesday of The menu for & dessert. Washed

individuals to attend. August…Pulled pork sandwich, beans, coleslaw, applesauce down with tea donated by Dairy Queen in Cisco and then our baskets put together by 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Community Hall at the

corner of Lamar and

Valley.

The meal is a food by the parishioners of

ministry project, run the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

We know our guests come for the cooking,

socializing and basket drawing. The only requirement is an appetite.

2 weeks later, the Friendship Meal is in Cisco on Tuesday, August 18th, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Same menu. The meal will be at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Hall, located 11th and Avenue F, you can’t miss it! questions, please call

Pete Loftin at 254-595--

2303.

So, bring yourself, free to everyone, friends, or strangers. from any community but they stay for the is invited for food and fellowship. We encourage families and drawing for gift on the comer of West Wild Flower Florist in Cisco. Join us from If you have any

MBA-HM, BSN, RN, as Chief Nursing Officer

Eastland Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce that Brandi Riley, MBA-HM, BSN, RN, has been

named Chief Nursing Officer (CNO).

We are especially LVN, Scrub Nurse, grateful for Brandi’s willingness to serve as Interim Chief Nursing

month. Her steady leadership, dedication, and commitment during this transition have been invaluable, and we are excited to have her continue leading our nursing team in her new role.

Brandi is proud to call Cisco home, where she lives with her husband, Justin, and their son. Their daughter and son-inlaw are also raising their young family in Cisco. Outside of work, Brandi enjoys spending time with her family, cheering them on at local football games and stock shows, and giving back to the community she proudly calls home.

Brandi began her nursing career at Eastland Memorial Hospital in May 2007 her career at EMH, she advanced through and leadership roles, including Med-Surg Post-Operative RN, Outpatient Surgical Services & Education

as an LVN. Throughout a variety of clinical Officer over the past Manager, and Chief Nursing Officer before leaving the Manager, Director of and a deep passion for organization in August 2020.

From August 2020 through June 2024, Brandi continued to expand her leadership experience at Hendrick Health, where she served as Ambulatory Surgery Center Inpatient Services, and Financial Analysis RN. These roles broadened her expertise in clinical operations, strategic leadership, and healthcare management.

In June 2024, Brandi returned to Eastland Memorial Hospital as the Cardiac Rehabilitation Registered Nurse, bringing with her a leadership experience, rural healthcare.

From her first days as an LVN to being named Chief Nursing Officer, Brandi’s being named Chief career reflects a Nursing Officer. Her deep commitment to serving patients, supporting caregivers, and strengthening rural healthcare. Her experience, dedication, both patients and

and genuine care for staff make her an wealth of knowledge, exceptional leader for

the nursing team.

Please join Eastland Memorial Hospital in congratulating Brandi Riley, MBAHM, BSN, RN, on

for nursing services,

leadership marks an exciting new chapter as Eastland Memorial Hospital continues its commitment to providing exceptional care to the communities it serves.

Cases Filed with DA: 10; YTD 132

Cases Filed Juvenile: O’ YTD 8 Traffic Citations: 110; YTD 1057 Warnings Issued: 337; YTD 3335 Total Contacts: 447; YTD 4392

Animal Control Issues Citations Issued: 0;

Total Calls for Service: 104; YTD 1718 YTD 46 Warnings: 3; YTD 138 Impounded 27; YTD 1153 Adopted 3; YTD 42 Quarantined 3; YTD Notes: 1 -DWI Arrest; 7- Felony Warrant

11 Arrests; 6- Narcotics Arrests; 1- Other Arrests. ******* Eastland Fire Department June 2026 Total Calls for Service - 70; YTD 393 Building Fire - 2; YTD 19 Trash or rubbish fire 3; YTD - 16 Brush or Grass Fire - 4; YTD - 27 YTD - 328 EMS Calls - 17; YTD

Medical Assist - 28;

1; YTD - 25

- 72 Motor Vehicle Accident with Injuries Motor Vehicle Accident with No Hazardous Condition - Injuries - 4; YTD - 53 8: YTD - 45 Lock-out - 0; YTD 18 YTD 25

Public Service - 1; Dispatched and Cancelled in Route - 1; False Alarm or False

YTD 29 Call - 1; YTD 22

Smoke Detector Activation due to Smoke detector

malfunction - 0; YTD 3 activation, no fireunintentional - 0; YTD 3

Notes:

Participated in Hometown Heroes Basketball Event; Conducted community wildfire assessment with group from Langford; Conducted fire safety presentation for Walmart employees; Hosted ISO pre-survey meeting with Verisk; Attended regional TCFP meeting in Abilene to complete HOD requirements; Participated in TCFP compliance inspection.

****** City of Eastland YTD - 1,063

Municipal Court June 2026 report Criminal Cases - 114; City Ordinances - 3: New Cases Filed - 117:

YTD - 83 YTD - 1,146 Disposed Cases - 59; YTD - 895 Warrants - 24; YTD 253 Active Cases - 4,823; YTD - 4,823

Inactive Cases - 377;

YTD - 377 Cases Pending - 5,200; YTD-5,200 $12,132; YTD - $141,565

*** City Revenue State Revenue Fines, Crt Cost, $5,585; YTD - $78,980 E - $17,717; YTD $220,545 End of Month $17,717; YTD-$73,972

*** June 24-25:

City Revenue - $175,070

State Revenue - $113,575

City Revenue -

Total: $288,645 June 25-26 $175,070 Over/Under ($33,505) $113,575 Over/Under ($34,595) Total $288,645 Over/ Under ($68,100)

State Revenue -

Withers

****** Report ran by: Dena Deputy Court Clerk Eastland Municipal Court ****

City of Eastland

Commissioners Court: I would like to take this opportunity to Thank You each of you,

the City Manager and this community, for the privilege to continue my education as Deputy Court Clerk, of the

Eastland Municipal Court. I love the work I do and do my best to serve this community to the Highest Standards I can. I take my job performance serious as I am rewarded each day.

This opportunity benefits me at my job performance and just as a servant to this community.

I touch lives each and every day!

Many Blessings

Dena R. Withers

Week of July 27 - 31

New challenge to school funding system

The Midland school district is suing Education Commissioner Mike Morath and other state leaders in another challenge to the state’s public school finance system, known as “Robin Hood,” according to The Texas Tribune.

Three legal challenges over the past three decades have failed, with Texas courts ruling that the recapture system complies with the state constitution. Under recapture, wealthier school districts — such as Midland, with its considerable oil and gas holdings — send money to the state, which then distributes it to school districts with low property values.

In the case of Midland, the district sent $92 million back to the state in the 2024-2025 school year, sixth highest in the state. Austin ISD sent back the most money that year at $771 million.

“They’re setting the tax rate. We collect the taxes. We send it to the state,” Guinn, the Midland school board president, said last week. “Then we get blamed as a local district and local board member for taxes being high. It’s just a revolving door.”

School administrators have contended that state leaders have not invested adequately in traditional public- school campuses, opting instead to promote charter schools and to create a voucher program that uses public funding for private or home schooling.

Breakaway buoys disrupt Rio Grande bridges Hundreds of federal border buoys broke loose during recent flooding, disrupting traffic at international bridges, the Texas Standard reported. The floating border barrier was installed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It consists of interconnected orange cylinders, each 4 feet high, 15 feet long, and weighing about a ton apiece. Officials in Eagle Pass temporarily stopped traffic on the city’s two international bridges. That city is also the location of about 2,000 feet of a separate floating barrier installed by Operation Lone Star in 2023. Those buoys remained intact during the recent flooding.

“The state buoys remain intact where they were located initially and have not moved,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “They’re being reinforced as we speak to make sure they’re not moved.” Many of the federal buoys became lodged into the river, while others floated into Mexico, where some were reportedly recovered by residents and sold as scrap metal. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol said in a statement that contractors were working to recover the remaining buoys.

State could overhaul university funding Texas could roll out a new funding model for four-year colleges that allocates more money to schools with higher graduation and retention rates, according to the Austin American-Statesman. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board presented the model to university representatives last week. It will propose the plan to lawmakers during next year’s legislative session.

Under current law, four-year colleges receive funding from the Legislature through formula funding, largely based on the number of courses offered and the number of students enrolled. Since 1999, funding has also come from institutional enhancement funding, which is not formula-based and varies widely, from $56 to $5,734 per student. Some lawmakers have criticized enhancements as a “slush fund.”

Sarah Keyton, deputy commissioner of the higher education agency, said the new funding model would make university budgeting The new model, if adopted by lawmakers, rewards universities for progress toward a degree and diplomas awarded. It was created with input from university leaders across the state.

"This formula could really accelerate our progress towards the goals of the state education plan (to) get more students earning credentials of value and entering the workforce and driving our statewide economy forward," Keyton said.

State takes action to protect residential ratepayers At Abbott's direction, the Public Utility Commission and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas have taken action to shield residential ratepayers from the costs of data center expansion sweeping across much of the state. Those actions include: • Requiring data centers to pay for transmission infrastructure and contribute to "meaningfully reducing" residential electric bills.

• Preventing large data centers from diverting existing power away from the ERCOT grid.

• Changing how data centers pay for the infrastructure needed to serve them.

• Developing stronger standards that data centers must meet before connecting to the grid.

A controversial data center project in Henderson County near Cedar Creek Reservoir has been pulled after the company said it couldn't comply with Abbott's standards, The Tribune reported. The site was expected to take 12 years to build out and to consume 5 million gallons of lake water per day by its fifth year. It drew considerable opposition from residents because of the location's proximity to a developed subdivision. 41 screwworm cases in Texas to date Forty-one cases of New World screwworm cases have been confirmed in Texas by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Standard reported, with one additional case in New Mexico. The latest infestation was confirmed in a baby calf in western Starr County, the first detected case in the Rio Grande Valley.

The screwworm is the larval stage of a parasitic fly that feeds on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals. Without treatment, infestations can be fatal.

Federal and state officials are working to contain the outbreak, with several counties in South and West Texas under quarantine that limits movement of livestock.

1.6 million eggs in Texas are recalled

Several brands of white and brown eggs sold in Texas are under a recall because they may be contaminated with salmonella, the Statesman reported. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Midwest Poultry Services is voluntarily recalling nearly 1.6 million eggs.

The company announced that the eggs were produced and distributed from Texas farms between June 6 and July 3, with sellby or best-by dates between July 20 and Aug. 17. They were shipped to Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana and Brookshire Grocery stores in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Mississippi, as well as other smaller retail outlets. The recalled eggs will have an identifying code number printed on the left or right sides of the carton in date-coding ink only. Only codes P-1950 or 0840962 with a Julian Date between 157 and 184 printed on the side of the carton are subject to recall. As of July 24, the company has not identified any illnesses linked to the recalled eggs.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

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MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Brazos / 361st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00106-CR Zykia Charelle Green v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey AFFIRM Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00119-CR Randy Lee Bolling v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Tarrant / Probate Court No. 2 7/23/2026 11-25-00120-CR Randy Lee Bolling v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Tarrant / Criminal District Court No. 3 7/23/2026 11-25-00131-CV WP Liquidating, Ltd.; WPL-GP, LLC; and Robert N. Thompson v. Anthony Fenoglio OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Parker / 43rd District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00145-CR Samantha Jo Hayes v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey AFFIRM Midland / 238th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00169-CR Gustavo Longoria v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey AFFIRM Taylor / 350th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00181-CR Rodney Allen Snead v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey AFFIRM Gaines / 106th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00185-CR Antonio Cruz Vasquez v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Taylor / 104th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00209-CR James Holdane Syme a/k/a James Holdane Syme, III v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Taylor / 350th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00251-CV Roxie Sue Shorter f/k/a Roxie Sue Wolf et al v. Coffield Family Properties, LTD. et al OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFIRM Borden / 132nd District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00048-CV Spencer Jon McFarland v. Tracey Denise Bouyer MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Trotter AFFIRM Denton / 393rd District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00095-CR Michael Richard Waleski v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFMOD Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00097-CR Michael Richard Waleski v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFMOD Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00014-CR Dana Joy Jones v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams AFFMOD Ector / 358th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00063-CR Allen Hernandez v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Trotter DISM Taylor / 104th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00157-CV In the Estate of Mary Louise Dawson, deceased MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey DISM Midland / County Court at Law 7/23/2026 11-26-00160-CR Jose Alberto Vasquez, Jr. v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey DISM Midland / 238th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00161-CR Jose Alberto Vasquez, Jr. v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey DISM Midland / 238th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00196-CV In re Jessica Coronado MEM OPINION ISSD by Chief Justice Bailey CONGRT Midland / 318th District Court 7/22/2026 11-26-00210-CV In re George Alois Meissner PET MAND DISP DENIED Taylor / 326th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00212-CR In re Aaron Garret Pudden PET MAND DISP DENIED Taylor / 104th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00137-CR Laterrance Charles Brooks v. The State of Texas ORDER ISSD ABATED Tarrant / 371st District Court 7/23/2026 11-24-00112-CV Leni Petrov v. Will-Brooks Inv, LLC MT EXT REHEAR DISP PRO SE DENIED Erath / County Court 7/23/2026 11-24-00112-CV Leni Petrov v. Will-Brooks Inv, LLC MT REHEAR DISP PRO SE DENIED Erath / County Court 7/23/2026 11-24-00112-CV Leni Petrov v. Will-Brooks Inv, LLC MT SUPP RECORD DISP PRO SE DENIED Erath / County Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00095-CR Michael Richard Waleski v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00097-CR Michael Richard Waleski v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00106-CR Zykia Charelle Green v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Ector / 161st District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00119-CR Randy Lee Bolling v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Tarrant / Probate Court No. 2 7/23/2026 11-25-00120-CR Randy Lee Bolling v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Tarrant / Criminal District Court No. 3 7/23/2026 11-25-00169-CR Gustavo Longoria v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Taylor / 350th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00178-CV Jay Mills Contracting, Inc. v. William Pace; Linda Israel; Stacey Israel; Melanie Lynn Cason; Cindy Sanders; and Erath County MT EXT BRIEF DISP APE GRANT Erath / 266th District Court 33

22

7/23/2026 11-25-00181-CR Rodney Allen Snead v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Gaines / 106th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00185-CR Antonio Cruz Vasquez v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Taylor / 104th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00209-CR James Holdane Syme a/k/a James Holdane Syme, III v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Taylor / 350th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00280-CR Brian Armendariz v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP APP GRANT Gaines / 106th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00298-CR Terry Jay Williams v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP STA GRANT Palo Pinto / 29th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00358-CR Mario Valerio v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP STA GRANT Taylor / 350th District Court 7/23/2026 11-25-00369-CV Christopher M. Perricone v. Katie Beth Perricone MT DISP PRO SE Palo Pinto / 29th District Court 7/23/2026 11-26-00019-CR Michael Andrew Counterman v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP APP GRANT Midland / 142nd District Court

7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Cost by donation.

It's to HOT to cook at home. Come eat with us.

Consignment: Ranch Liquidation: 130 Cows 5-8 yrs Old which includes 30 Pairs, 70 Bred 3-7 month to Good An gus Bulls, $ 30 open Representative Sales Brad Baker, Weatherford, TX 2 Blk Hfrs 280# @545 ea.

Spotted Bull 290# @545

Eddie Eddington, Albany,

TX Blk Mf Cow 1595# @ $192 Blk Mf Str 390# @ $495 Dallas Lupton, Sagerton, TX Brin Hfr 465# @ $640 2 Gray Bulls 426# @ $500 Betty Brewer, Breckenridge, TX Red Hfr 575# @ $360 Blk Hfr 710# @ $320 Younger Fawcett, Rising Star, TX Blk Hfr 500# @ $400 Blk Bull 560# @ $363 Shawn McDougal, Mineral Wells, TX Red Hfr 525# @ $455 Blk Cow 1605# @ 175 Brent Butler, Seymour, TX Red Wf Bull 795# @ $300 Red Wf Bull 2370# @ $240 Sandra Haney, Jacksboro, TX 3 Blk Bulls 350# @ $545 ea.

Blk Hfr 310# @ $555 Nantz L& C, Graham, TX 105 Blk Strs 421# @

$477

ea.

108 Blk Hfrs 454# @ $426 ea.

Jerry L. Deweber, Bowie, TX Gray Bull 2526# @ $250 Harrell Farm & Ranch, Graham, TX 3 Blk Strs 615# @ $400 ea.

Blk Hfr 595# @ $360 Shahan Family LP, Aledo, TX 5 Blk Hfrs 438# 2 $425 ea.

Blk Bull 245# @

$ 690 Sale Every Monday at 10 AM Ronnie Hardin 940-- 521-2158

Danny Hardin 940-- 550-8109

They enjoyed toobing for their first time at the They joined Rusty and Joyclyn Wicks’ decorated boat for the boat parade and ended the weekend watching fireworks from La Mancha from the boat. Thanks for the FIREWORKS .

The Fire Works were Beautiful, as always. (Photo by Joyclyn Wicks and copy by Boogie Tyson).

lake. Tyson even knee boarded.

Her resignation sparked a heated exchange between Mayor Michael Hackney, councilman Joe Williamson and councilman Larry Vernon that led the city attorney to step in and ask for a quick adjournment.

“Gentlemen, I hope you are proud of yourself for putting something like this on the Internet,” said Vernon, holding up a printed document published on the internet after Fortenberry called current working conditions within the city untenable.

Vernon’s display brought a quick response from Mayor Michael Hackney, saying “We’re not going to get into that, Larry.”

Despite the warning, Vernon continued his defense of Fortenberry, saying her resignation should be followed by those of Williamson and Hackney – both of whom were accused of intimidation and creating a hostile work environment.

Following Fortenberry’s resignation. Williamson issued an apology to the council and the City of Eastland employees, claiming the inflammatory note published did not reflect who he is as a person, or city leader.

“It’s exactly you,” Vernon said. “Joe, you should resign. This is your fault. Both of you (Williamson and Hackney) should resign.”

Vernon’s assertion led Hackney to angrily question if anyone cared what he thought.

Vernon wasn’t the at Williamson, who was recently elected to Chief Tim Pitts voiced his dissatisfaction with Williamson, saying he had “zero integrity, sir.”

Earlier in the meeting, Eastland resident Richard Pleasant also called out Williamson as a “ only official venting office. Eastland Police sham.”

“All of the mularkey going around ripples back to you, Mr. Williamson,” he said. “What’s your agenda> Your comments … I can pull them up on the web, when you slam-dunked the police department and halfassed slam-dunked the fire department. Is your agenda to take down the City of Eastland?”

“What’s your agenda,” Pleasant said while looking at the city councilman. “The crap you put on the net was bull. You are a sham of what this city needs.”

For Fortenberry, she said her decision to step down didn’t come lightly. Her interactions with members of the council, she said, had become confrontational, a fact that made her ability to work effectively as the city manager impossible.

“Serving the City of Eastland has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional career,” she said. I am proud of what has been accomplished alongside our dedicated employees, department heads and community partners. Unfortunately, I can no longer continue to serve in an environment that has become increasingly hostile and detrimental to me effectively performing the duties of city manager.”

Fortenberry cited three incidents that led to her decision, including intimidation attempts by Williamson, as well as an alleged incident in which Hackney directed the words “bullshit” at her and paperwork was thrown back at her in a “disrespectful and confrontational manner.”

“I believe the conduct I have experienced has gone beyond legitimate oversight and, instead, has created an adversarial and unprofessional work environment that has not only affected me but the organization, as a whole.”

Fortenberry said she also witnessed disrespect toward Pitts at times.

The exchange between councilmembers isn’t city leaders have exchanged words. Shortly before being elected mayor, Hackney referred to Vernon as a “son of a bitch” following the former mayor calling him a “drug mule.”

Buy-Out Program The required paperwork has been submitted to GLO and there are six properties that will be removed through the Buy-Out Program. Pending eligibility clearance, the City was prepared to begin procurement activities on July 6, 2026, with the following anticipated timeline:

• Eligibility review and applicant coordination: May - June 2026

• Environmental and historic compliance activities: May - August 2026

• Procurement, appraisal, and acquisition activities: July - October 2026

• URA coordination and occupied property activities: June - November 2026

• Demolition and site restoration: September - December 2026

• Final contract closeout activities: December 2026 The properties currently listed on the buyout are: 714 N Seaman, 715 N Seaman, 716 N Seaman, 720 N Seaman, 722 N Seaman, 723 N Seaman.

Since the meeting in June, there has been an issue with Texas Historical Commission. THC will not allow the project to move forward using GLO funds until the properties are independently evaluated for any potential historic meaning. Langford Community Management is currently seeking an individual to evaluate the properties, but this could be an extra cost to the city and additional time. We are having this evaluated by GLO to see if there are any payment options available within the grant to do this. I anticipate have more information in the coming weeks from GLO and Langford regarding a decision to move forward.

TWDB Flood infrastructure Fund Grant Currently the crew is working on asphalting the road where the line was laid and next will be installing the vault for the valve on Daugherty and Plummer and completing the tie ins. We are waiting on two property owners near this area to realign the pump line in a straighter manner than what was originally drawn up. This will require two easements to be adjusted. Once the bore is complete, the next step will be to tie in the line with the existing main. This work will have to be scheduled as water service will be temporarily interrupted while the contractors complete the work. We will notify once the time and date has been determined.

Downtown Sidewalk Repairs

TxDOT will be repairing specific sections of the

sidewalks around downtown in the upcoming months. TxDOT estimates a month before starting in Eastland. The repairs have been delayed due to other projects. These are prioritized by TxDOT funding.

Additional Information

• Please review the budget calendar dates and let us know if you will not be able to be in attendance.

• We were not chosen for the downtown revitalization grant this cycle but can reapply when the grant cycle opens again.

• The comprehensive plan grant is underway. We are currently gathering documents needed to begin the kickoff portion.

• Flock cameras will no longer be installed due to grant funding. We have chosen to pull the application as the grant is no longer funded at this time, and the cameras have not been installed due to permitting being backed up throughout the State with Flock. The grant was originally awarded, but due to permitting Flock cannot meet deadlines, and the grant funding is no longer available.

CITY MANAGER’S JULY REPORT

• Drainage on the corner of Seaman and Commerce- TxDOT has responded to the request to review the inlet on the corner of Seaman and Commerce. This drain has been previously cleaned by the city, we have utilized our HydroVac machine, ran the jet machine to try and chew away what might be blocking the drainage. We believe we have gone as far as we can without digging up Seaman Street. We believe the issue is being caused further in the line. We will have to devise a plan with TxDOT on a solution. There are three total drains in the downtown area that have issues and we believe they are all tied to the same trunk line. I have requested drainage plans from TxDOT to review and devise a plan.

Savannah Fortenberry, City Manager *****

City of Eastland Department Reports

Eastland Code Compliance Depart.

June 2026 Open Cases Beginning of Period - 23; YTD 370 New Cases Opened - 30; YTD 144 Cases Closed 12; YTD 172 End of Month Total - 41 *Total Violations Opened - 40 * Total Violations Closed - 20 Junk Vehicles - 0 Dangerous Buildings - 5 Citations Issued - 0; YTD 13 Warnings Issued - 0 Cases Reported for Back Taxes - 0 Annual Notices - 30 Fines Assessed $0; YTD $6,830 Fines Paid - $0 Served Jail Time - 0 Fines Dismissed $0; YTD $2,616 Total Fines Paid/SVD/ DSMSD - $0 Cases Abated by City - 0 Costs of Cases Abated- 0 Abatements Paid - 1 Abatements Paid Amount - $0 Liens Filed - 0 Lien Amount - $582.75 Lines Paid - Amount YTD $1,112.75 Citations Issued: Non reported Editor: I want to thank the members of Congress, and the titans of big oil for all they have done for this country.

First, I want to thank Congress and the other politicians for the national debt which last time I looked it was $39 trillion and counting at about $3.7 billion a day just in interest. Also, I want to thank them for their diligence in fair taxation for all the tax breaks for the people they represent otherwise; broke and come out as multi-millionaires? There should be no deductions allowed for anything, businesses or individuals. If this were true, everyone would be paying their fair share. The tax rate would be so low, the average person and small business would pay a pittance. They can hold their heads up and say, “I paid my fair share of taxes, now you pay yours”.

Some people will say that entrepreneurs need tax breaks so they can hire others. Thank goodness for these entrepreneurs, they will still be making money and the only reason they ever hired anyone else make them more money. The large entrepreneurs might have to wait another year to replace the yacht they purchased last year.

My question is when everyone gets all these tax breaks, who has to make up the difference? I think one answer is the national debt and guess who that is?

Second, I want to thank the big oil companies for all they have done to make us 1973 they have known that they should be using our own oil for our was and still is, it would cost vast amounts of money and time to to the oil we produce, and we have lots of oil that we purchased from others in underground storage reserves. We are some 50 plus years since OPEC made us line up at gas stations to purchase a limit of 5 gallons of gas, our reserves are at an all-time low and what is left may only be partially recoverable, only process imported oil. What happened to all that tax break money and oil companies got for the last 50 years that were supposed to make us independent of foreign oil? Please show me where I am wrong and I will apologize.

Sincerely, Larry Greer Carbon, Texas 76435

Week of July 20 - 24

Flooding batters Hill Country once again

A massive amount of rain once again engulfed the Hill Country, causing widespread flooding in several counties, including Uvalde, Kerr, Kendall and Gillespie. At least two fatalities were reported near Comfort and Uvalde.

More than 270 people were rescued. Damage was widespread from rains bringing as much as 25 inches to parts of Kerr County and 10 to 15 inches in other counties.That is much lower than the toll from last summer’s flooding, which killed more than 130 statewide, the San Antonio Express- News reported. Officials and residents credit improved warning systems, including text alerts and flood sirens, and fewer people clustering on riverbanks, since it was not a holiday weekend — unlike the July 4, 2025, flood.

Law enforcement officials fanned out to campgrounds, hotels and RV parks as the floodwaters began to raise, though this time the flooding built up over a few days.

“We weren’t caught off guard by something nobody expected,” state Rep. Wes Virdell, R-Brady, said at a news conference Friday. “We had a lot of critical, key people that were in the proper locations that were very instrumental in helping us. Residents were very aware of the possibility of what’s going to happen when that river floods.”

Gov. Greg Abbott signed a major disaster declaration seeking federal assistance for rebuilding efforts in 28 affected counties.

State agencies asked to cut spending by 3% in next

budget cycle

Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows announced their top four priorities for the 2028-2029 budget cycle last week, including requiring state agencies to reduce base spending requests by 3%. Other priorities include addressing affordability concerns, fully funding public education, supporting teachers, and advancing property tax reform.

In a news release, Abbott said the budget guidance “protects our historic investments in public education and teachers, delivers even more property tax relief, and makes the cost of living more manageable for Texas families through strict standards of efficiency and accountability from every state agency.”

The 90th legislative session begins in January.

Mortgage delinquencies up among first-time homeowners

First-time homeowners in Texas are increasingly failing to make their mortgage payments on time, the Houston Chronicle reported. Increasing homeowner insurance costs are the primary culprit, according to data from the Federal Housing Administration.

Most FHA borrowers are first-time homebuyers and typically have lower credit ratings and less money for a down payment, making them more vulnerable to rising monthly costs. Roughly 6% of FHA loans in Texas were at least 90 days past due, up from 3.7% a year earlier.

“This unfortunately positions Texas at the epicenter of the national affordability squeeze,” Scott Norman, CEO of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, told state lawmakers in June.

Home insurance rates have increased by an average of 80% since 2020, according to the Texas Department of Insurance. Compounding the situation, homeowners with low credit scores are paying almost $3,000 more annually for home insurance than those with high credit scores.

Late payments on conventional mortgages have remained flat, with less than 1% of borrowers seriously behind on their payments.

Howden named Texas secretary of state Abbott has named Robert S. Howden to succeed Jane Nelson as Texas secretary of state, according to the Texas Standard. Nelson left office on July 17.

Howden has served as Abbott’s legislative director since September 2024. He will serve as interim secretary until the legislative session begins in January, when he will need to be confirmed by the Texas Senate.

“His experience in the legislative process and extensive public service have prepared him to protect the integrity of Texas elections and represent our state with strength on the global stage,” Abbott said in announcing Howden’s appointment.

The office’s primary responsibility is overseeing elections and voter rolls. It also oversees business filings, such as limited liability corporations and other entities.

Talarico holds fundraising edge over Paxton With less than four months before the November general election, Democratic nominee James Talarico has vastly out-raised his GOP rival Ken Paxton in the U.S. Senate race, the Chronicle reported.

The Austin-area state legislator ended June with a bank balance of $21.5 million, according to newly filed documents with the Federal Election Commission. After factoring in expenses, incumbent senator Paxton’s campaign was left with a balance of just $1.7 million.

Both candidates are heavily backed by socalled super PACs. The Talarico-aligned PAC has $21.6 million in the bank, including $10 million from LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman. The Paxton-aligned PAC, which spent heavily in his successful runoff against incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, was left with just $35,000 to start July.

Talarico hopes to break Texas Democrats’ 32-year losing streak in statewide elections. He has raised more than $68 million thus far, the most for any non-incumbent in a U.S. Senate race.

Abbott campaign paid $25K to rent elephant

Gov. Greg Abbott's reelection campaign paid $25,000 to rent Paige the elephant for the state GOP convention from an exhibitor that failed to register with the city of Houston before bringing the elephant to the George R. Brown Convention Center, according to the Chronicle.

A campaign finance report revealed the amount the campaign paid to East Texas Elephant Experience to parade her at the June convention. The city's regulatory division said it had no record the company registered as a licensed exhibitor at least 20 days before the event as required by city code.

Klayton Rutherford of PETA said the payment rewards an exotic animal entertainment industry that has come under criticism over its treatment of elephants.

"The amount of money that is involved in this industry is staggering," Rutherford said. "The most prominent elected official in the state arranged this exhibit and it was done apparently in violation of the city's ordinances and that's alarming." The Abbott campaign declined to comment.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist.

He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@ texaspress.com.

MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams DISM Tarrant / 67th District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00180-CV Shawna DeBoer and Durk DeBoer v. Angela CooperSubstitute, De-Boer REO, LLC.

MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Trotter DISM Erath / 266th District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00182-CR Justis Ray Guynes v. The State of Texas MEM OPINION ISSD by Justice Williams DISM Scurry / 132nd District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00066-CR Kayla Rae Downs v. The State of Texas ORDER ISSD ABATED Denton / 16th District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00144-CV Ameritrade Services Company, Inc. f/k/a TD Ameritrade Services Company, Inc. v. AP Gulf States, Inc. and Good, Fulton, ORDER ISSD ABATED Tarrant / 141st District Court 7/16/2026 11-24-00323-CV Teresa D. Darling and Lochie Hosch a/n/f of Kellie J. Darling v. Old Republic Insurance Company MT REHEAR DISP ANT DENIED Howard / 118th District Court 7/16/2026 11-25-00044-CR William Milton Caram v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Taylor / 42nd District Court 7/16/2026 11-25-00059-CR Renee Reeves v. The State of Texas MT WDR ATTY DISP APP GRANT Ector / 70th District Court 7/16/2026 11-25-00322-CV In the Estate of James Dwain Vinson, deceased MT EXT BRIEF DISP APE GRANT Taylor / County Court at Law No. 2 7/16/2026 11-25-00326-CR Kenneth Ray Acorn, II v. The State of Texas MT DISM DISP APP GRANT Nolan / 32nd District Court 7/16/2026 11-25-00334-CR Kenneth Joseph Dalhaus v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP ANT GRANT Tarrant / 372nd District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00003-CR Jayven Alexander Landerth v. The State of Texas MT EXT BRIEF DISP APP GRANT Ector / 358th District Court 7/16/2026 11-26-00031-CV In the matter of B.F.P, a juvenile MT EXT RESP DISP PRO SE DISMMT Ector / County Court at Law

36

Maybe it's because he wears a uniform and people take it more seriously when present -

ed by authority.

Whatever the reason, please keep it up!

We Eastlanders want our little town looking good!

Thank you, Ora Halllmark

CONSIGNMENT: 400 Steers & Heifers a mix of Blacks & Charolais off of one ranch weighing 400 to 500 lbs.

Representative Sales Jay Bob Binder, Lorenzo, TX Gray Bull 1645# @ $263 Red Bull 825# @ $328 Robby Curtis, Abilene, TX Blk Hfr 475# @ $417 Blk Str 330# @ $620 Dennis Pool, Snyder, Tx Red Str 525# @ $420 2 Red HFr 668# @ $326 ea.

CZ Land & Cattle, Roby, TX Blk Cow 1195# @ $193 7 Blk Bulls 648# @ $377 ea.

Carl Davis, Mineral Wells, TX Blk Hfr 775# @ $340 Grey Str 590# @ $400 Mike Stewart, Archer City, TX Blk WF Bull 415# @ $490 Blk Hfr 445# @ $420 Jerry Cabler, Spur, TX 7 Blk Bred Cows @ $4700 ea.

2 Red Cows @ $4000 ea.

Randy Lowe, St ephenville, TX 9 Blk HFrs 653# @ $355 ea.

9 Blk Strs 683# @ $375 ea.

David Whitley, Graham, TX Blk Hfr 455# @ $465 Blk Bull 560# @ $400 Jason Castle, Henrietta, TX 2 Blk WF Hfrs 802# @ $330 ea.

3 Blk WF Hfrs 635# @ $365 ea.

RJ Nail Partnership, Arlington, TX Red Bull 1955# @ $252 Blk WF Cow 1320# @ $190 Alex Fambro, Mingus, TX 3 Blk Strs 307# @ $620 ea.

1 Brin Hfr 295# @605 Sale Every Monday at 10 AM Ronnie Harden 940-5212158

Danny Hardin 940-- 550-8109

ural Resources, 2nd Place Kaylinn McDowell- Poultry, 2nd Place Intermediate Divi sion: Aislinn McDowell- Citizenship, Civic Education & Com - munity Service, 1st Place Stella Monty- Fashion & Interior Design, 4th Place Mason Thurman-

Rabbits, 4th Place Senior Division: Colton Dodrill-

Shooting Sports, 5th Place

Karsyn Dodrill- Food & Nutrition, 3rd Place Saylor Monty- Fashion & Interior Design, 5th Place Pebbles Whitaker-

Public Speaking, 2nd Place

County Judge David Hullum explained that although the Court does not have land use authority (for privately owned property), it does not have to show support to solar farm endeavors in Eastland County. Abatements were not being given, he emphasized. The resolution in its entirety can be read on page 2.

An item regarding the Rising Star VFD annual fundraising event on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 was brought to the top of the meeting, so that Wayne Jones and others from Rising Star attending the meeting could return to their regular business matters. RSVFD was asking the Court to approve the closing of CR 290 for the aerobatic portion of taking place from 12 - 2pm that day, as has been done in years past. It was assured that detour signs would be in place and mentioned that Eastland County Sheriff deputies had helped in former years, among others. This item also passed unanimously.

The County wide Burn Ban remains ON for the time being. Judge Hullum said Fire Chief Constancio had suggested it should remain in place at this time. “My suggestion is to leave it on,” Judge Hullum agreed. He added that he might consider lifting the burn ban if the county should receive a lot of rain.

County Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2020 freightliner bobtail dump truck and gave permission to make payment for Precinct 4. This item was brought to the agenda by Commissioner Robert Rains, Pct. 4.

Along the same line, Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2026 Caterpillar Model 140 JY Motor Grader with trade-in of a 1988 Caterpillar 12G Motor Grader, and to allow County Auditor Loretta Key to request quotes sioner Ronnie Wilson, Pct. 3 brought this item to the agenda.

The Court further approved a request by Phillip Allen to receive an insurance allowance in lieu of participating in Eastland County health and dental coverage, and heard a report of 9 names on the Salary Grievance Committee, presented by County Clerk Cathy Jentho.

Commissioners voted to adopt the Eastland County Fraud, Waste and Abuse Policy as presented by County Auditor Loretta Key. This policy needs to be reviewed annually, Auditor Key noted.

County Sheriff Jason Weger brought an item to the agenda regarding the approval of a change order for dispatch addition G701 - 2017. Apparently, the addition’s blue prints did not include wall outlets.

The Consent Agenda - approved by Commissioners - was preceded in the July 13 meeting 2025 audit report, presented by Condley and Company, LLP. The County was given a “clean audit opinion” and the auditor explained various graphics to the court. All in all the audit went smooth-Commissioners were informed.

6-1 to 6-30-2026 Marriage Records

Areyan, Johnny Naranjo & Guillen, Neria Carissa Francisca Ballinger, Jayden Tyler & Chaney, Cadence Jean Barrett, Trace Hayes & Pack, Ambry Lyn Carlson, John Paul & Duplissey, Kathleen Clair Carney, Daniel James & Duncan, Faith Cheyenne East, Drew Garrett & Rego, Andrea Caroline Hernandez, Jacob & See, Kayleen Dawn

O Connor, Michael Manoel & Teague, Mary Noel Starr, Robert Jacob & Hernandez, Lynanna Leigh

Steele, John William & Jones, Addison Baileigh

Eastland County Court Eastland County Clerk

Fischer, Richard Lee, Criminal Mischief >=$100

<$750 Hall, Jared Lee, Violation Bond or Protective

Order

Martinez, Rudy, Driving While Intoxicated -

Second Offense

Rodriguez, Jesus, Health and Safety Viol Class C Thomas, Zachery Vonte, Possession Marijuana, 4

ounces or less but more than 2 oz Willen, Robert William, Reckless Damage

While I stepped into this role with a commitment to supporting the and stabilizing clinical operations, the events of the past 32 business days have created an environment of extreme administrative instability, operational dysfunction, and escalating legal and clinical liability. I can no longer, in good professional standing or within the bounds of my nursing license, maintain a leadership role under these conditions.

The critical factors necessitating my immediate departure include: Crisis: The Emergency faces 26 open shifts. This severe vacancy rate creates an imminent threat to safe patient-to-nurse ratios, compounding the risk of medical errors and potential patient abandonment. The ER nurses leaving in

(Continued Page 4... ) four weeks is a result of the workplace, not RI QGLQJ E opportunity”. Not to mention the over 25% of employees

Letter to The Editor

• Total Collapse of Clinical Oversight: Following the abrupt termination of the previous CNO, the hospital has seen a total vacuum in stable leadership. This practice, has apparently been a trend long before my arrival at Eastland Memorial. As of this week, the hospital is operating without a Quality Manager and, very soon, an Infection Control/ (PSOR O Manager. Forcing an (PJQF SPQ to operate during an RQJRLQJOQG PQ 6YLF 6 investigation without these foundational safety and compliance roles places the entire clinical staff under unacceptable liability.

ES OLRQ of Essential ER/RAC QG %F RI RQGQLOL Yesterday, administration informed me that my access to a shared folder containing all Emergency SPQ RSLRQO data—including SYLR T Regional Advisory Council (RAC) data left by the prior manager— has been revoked. I was told the entire IROG NQ RILQ because it contained unproven peer writeups regarding alleged narcotic diversion by a SFLFQLQE my predecessor. Leaving QYLG EQF diversion accusations on a public drive is an egregious breach of PSOR FRQGQLOL by my predecessor. Regardless, using this administrative oversight MLFLRQ R summarily delete or block access to vital RAC trauma logs and compliance data, without consulting or warning me, completely cripples my ability to manage state trauma designation TLPQ P follow-up reports, and performance improvement.

• Bypassing of SPQ /GLS in Regulatory Matters: Regarding the aforementioned unproven diversion allegations, the nurse in TLRQ LQFOGG P LQ her email correspondence to upper leadership. SL P QGLQJ her direct supervisor, executive leadership proceeded to schedule and conduct two separate formal meetings with this employee completely without my knowledge, input, or presence. This deliberate exclusion undermines my authority as the Emergency SPQ 1 Manager and prevents me from ensuring due process, accurate clinical oversight, and proper department documentation.

RLO :RN Environment and Employee Retaliation: The internal culture has devolved into one of intimidation rather than compliance. The FNLQJQGTLRQLQJ RI (5 RR II without due process or thorough investigation, creates a hostile work environment that directly compromises staff focus and morale during critical clinical shifts. Furthermore, the practice of escorting out department heads upon receiving notice—as seen with the Quality Manager last week— demonstrates a pattern of retaliation that disrupts operational continuity. A healthy workplace treats mistakes as data, not evidence. Twenty employees across multiple departments do not share the same delusion, nor do the public press releases. The fact that administration still fails to act is a EILQJ GLSSRLQPQ from a public relations standpoint.

Prior to submitting this resignation, I consulted with employment attorneys, legal nurse consultants, and nurse practitioners. The unanimous directive from these legal and clinical experts is that I must not absorb the profound institutional and regulatory liability generated by this administration’s operational failures.

As a Registered Nurse, my primary legal and ethical obligation is to patient safety and the preservation of nursing practice standards under the Texas Board of Nursing. The administrative decisions over the past month have made it impossible to safely, or realistically, IOOORREOLJLRQ I will leave my company laptop on my desk and keys in my box outside the door. All reports are in my drive and current up to July 8th, 2026. I expect my QOSFFNLQFOGLQJ all hours worked up to this date, to be processed in accordance with Texas payday laws.

R QR FRQF P past this notice. All responsibilities of the operations of the ER now fall to Interim CNO, Brandi Riley.

I am elated for this fever dream of a job to QOOFRPRQQG .LOQ6QG51 Emergency SPQ 0QJ Emergency Services Eastland Memorial RSLO