It seems everyone who was alive for 9/11 was affected in some way. Our youth need to be taught about what happened.

The youth of today know little about 9/11 except what they learns from books.

We must never forget. So this Friday, - please fly your Ameri can Flag on Patriot Day.

Larry Monroe DAY Chapter 41 254-631-9226

#ecmlibrarynews The library now offers “Book Club in a Bag.” Each bag contains 8 physical books, discussion questions, and access to the e-book and audiobook on our have 25 bags to choose from across nine clubs from around

genres. Several book Eastland County have already checked out several of the titles and have given positive feedback. One person from your book club may check out the whole bag and then share the books with the club.

Literary Fiction: Dead by John Kenney, by Ian McEwan, The

What We Can Know Correspondent by Virginia Evans, How to Read A Book by Damoff Historical Fiction: The Collector of Burned Books by Roseanna White, Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser, James by Percival Everett Mystery/Thriller: Kills Well With Others My Husband’s Wife by Samantha Soto Yambao by Deanna Raybourn, by Alice Feeney, Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston, All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

Eastland Library

Kristen Perrin, A Cute Little Murder by Molly Harper Fantasy: The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer, Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry, Becoming Hook by Mary Meacham,The Elsewhere Express Science Fiction: All Systems Red by Martha Wells Romance: The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez Christian Fiction: A Deeper Well by Jill Eileen Smith Nonfiction/Memoir: A Brief History of the Alam Malik, Finding My

Universe by DrSarah Way: AMemoir by Malala Yousafzzai These bags were of Museum and Library

funded by the U.S. Institute Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and

Archives Commission.

National Senior Citizen Day Party.

We are looking from Sandra Hazelip, Doctor,

forward to a visit author, and traveler extraordinaire this month. monthly community BINGO on the 19th and all are welcome to come out and play.

We will have our

Thank you, Julie Hudson

an unforgettable evening as Barry Corbin shares stories from his incredible career spanning more television, theatre, and on stage.

than 40 years in film, Show Begins at 7:00 PM. Tickets, $40 each, are on sale now! majesticeastland.com.

About Barry Corbin: From Lonesome Dove and Urban Cowboy to Ranch, One Tree Hill, and the Academy

Yellowstone, The

recognizable and

Award-winning No Country for Old Men, Barry Corbin has become one of America’s most beloved actors. Join us for an unforgettable evening as Barry shares behind- the- scenes stories, rare photos memories from his incredible career, and answers your questions live. This is a one-ofa- kind opportunity to meet the man behind the legendary roles.

Photos & Memories/ Autographs and Q&A!

Majestic Theatre 108 N. Lamar Street

$15.00 LOWER Slaughter Bulls & Cows:

$15-$20.00 LOWER Bred Cows & Pairs: LOWER ON SHORT

SUPPLY and LOWER

QUALITY

Feeder Steers:

Med & Large #1 300-400

lb.

$3.90- $5.00

400 - 500 lb $3.50-

$4.25

500 - 600 lb $3.25 - $

4.20

600-700 lb. $3.00 -

$3.40

Feeder Heifers:

Med. & Large # 1 300-400 lb $.3.40-

$4.80

400-500 lb $3.15-$4.20

500-600 lb $2.95-$3.85

600-700 lb $2.70-$3.20

Longhorn/Dairy NT Fresh Ropers NT Slaughter Cows: High Dressing $1.30-

$1.65 Low Dressing $.95--

$1.25 Slaughter Bulls High Dressing $1.80-

$2.05 Low Dressing $1.50 -

$1.75

Bred Stock Cows:

Choice NT

Medium $2400-$3000 Aged NT

Cows w/calves: Choice NT Medium $3300-$4000 Aged NT

Buyers 43 Sellers 99 Head 760 SALE DATE 9–1-2026 Livestock Sale Every Tuesday!

Goats & Sheep Start at

10:00 Cattle to follow IH 20 and FM 3363 Olden Exit P.O. Box 70 Eastland, Texas 76448 Telephone (254) 629--

2288 Fax (254) 629-2484

texascattleexchange.

com

Hamburgers & Hot Dogs September 19th from 5:00–7:00 PM Sewing Circle September 28th from 9:00 AM–3:30 PM We hope to see everyone and look forward to a great month at the DAC!

Corporal Rains was recognized as this year’s Grand Champion by Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) President Maj. Erick McGuire of the Florida Highway Patrol. The event was held from Aug. 10–14, in Pittsburgh, Pa., bringing together 47 of the top inspectors from across the U.S., Canada and Mexico to compete in NAIC, the only North American event dedicated to commercial motor vehicle inspector excellence. Corporal Rains’ commitment to public safety and his exceptional skill and professionalism as a commercial vehicle inspector,” said DPS Colonel “This honor reflects Freeman F. Martin. “Our department is extremely proud of his achievement and the way he represents DPS and our entire state on one of the biggest stages in commercial vehicle enforcement.”

In addition to being named Grand Champion, Corporal Rains received the High Points Award – United States, as the top-scoring U.S. inspector. He further distinguished himself with strong performances in multiple categories, including: First Place – Hazardous Materials/Dangerous Goods and Cargo Tank/ Bulk Packaging Inspection First Place – Passenger Carrier Vehicle Inspection Third Place – North American Standard Level I Inspection (the most commonly performed 37step inspection) NAIC competitors undergo rigorous testing across six inspection categories over two days, performing mock roadside inspections on commercial vehicles, identifying violations and applying advanced safety protocols under timed, real-world scenarios. The competition also provides cutting edge training on the latest safety technologies, hazardous materials regulations, post-crash inspections and more—skills competitors take back to their home jurisdictions to enhance roadway safety.

As the 2026 NAIC Grand Champion, Corporal Rains will attend the upcoming CVSA Annual Conference and Exhibition in Orlando, Fla., where he will be honored and address Alliance membership at the awards luncheon on Sept. 23.

Important Dates: Aug. 11 - Sept 12 Submit Artwork Online; - Sept 19 - email Notifi cation if Artwork is Selected. Sept 26 - 10AM - 3PM: Drop-off artwork and Lyric. Oct. 3 - 10AM - 4PM Ripfest. Oct. 3 - 3PM: Awards Announced.

More info and submit artwork @ WWW. LYRICARTCENT ER.ORG/OLDRIPSART2026.

Next week is looking more promising! More clouds and cooler temperatures are expected through the middle of the week. Until then, keep that water bottle handy and remember, September might be on the calendar, but summer is still calling the shots!

September 1, 2026 AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced a new 10-year transportation plan with a total projected investment of $138 billion.

In a rapidly growing state, this transformational investment will help improve safety, reduce congestion and strengthen the supply chain.

“Texas’ booming economy and growing population demand a transportation system that keeps people and products moving safely and efficiently,'

said Governor Abbott. “This $138 billion investment will strengthen our roadways, reduce congestion, improve safety, and support growing communities across Texas. By investing in critical infrastructure today, we are building a bigger, better Texas for “Working closely with our transportation partners and incorporating input from Texans, the UTP lays out a path to advance projects Texas Transportation Commission Acting Chair Alvin New said. “These investments will improve mobility, enhance connectivity, and make our roads safer for everyone. I want to thank Governor Abbott and the Texas Legislature for their commitment to funding projects that will connect you with The Texas Transportation Commission approved Transportation Program (UTP) in its August meeting, which includes $95 billion for projects across the state over the next 10 years. The investment is supported by an additional $43 billion in development and routine maintenance.

“This 10-year plan complexity of meeting Texas’ transportation needs in one of the fastest-growing states Executive Director Marc Williams said. “It is focused on practical outcomes—improving safety, preserving the system we have, and supporting reliable movement for people and goods. With continued attention to project delivery, stewardship and longterm performance, these investments help position TxDOT to meet today’s demands while planning responsibly for the The UTP lays out a plan for project development to enhance safety, address congestion and connectivity, and preserve roadways for Texas drivers. The program also includes future.”

public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, international trade and bicycle and pedestrian connectivity. Learn more about the program in the UTP Fact Sheet.

Many of the projects in the 2027 UTP are roadway on Texas’ 100 Most Congested Roadways list. Texas Clear Lanes congestion-relief projects funding will increase, supporting the $90.6 billion total investment for completed, under- construction and planned nontolled projects since 2015. The plan also investment in safety and increases funding for rural corridors and key economic hubs.

In the Brownwood District, these projects include: US 84 (Brown County): Widening project from 0.45 miles west of FM 2126 to near the Fort Worth and Western Railroad. Letting FY 2027-2030.

US 84 (Coleman County): Widening project from 0.6 miles west of US 283 to FM 568. Letting FY 20312036 I-20 (Eastland County): An emergency relief project at the Leon River. Letting FY 2031-2036.

US 281 (Lampasas County): Widening project from US 183 to the Coryell County line. Letting FY 20272030.

US 84 (Mills County): Widening project from FM 573 to US 183. Letting FY 2031-2036.

The Commission adopted the UTP after an extensive process to allow the public to voice comments and opinions on the projects listed in the document. More information on comments received and the public involvement process can be found at txdot.gov.

There are many ways you can support our program! You can sign up to run/walk our 5K, tell a friend about our event, come volunteer on the day of the event, or become a SPONSOR! on Wheels Eastland. Message me for details! Heather Chapman

Program: Registration at 10:00 am Welcome and Recognition of Families and former church pastors Singing and Special Music Testimonies Cemetery Report from Gary Harris Offerings for both the church and the cemetery association Recognition of oldest man and woman attending Message: Matt Lawrence Prayer and Dismissal Luncheon meal and deserts provided by the church and cemetery association officers Please join us for worship and fellowship. RSVP for the meal can be made via voice message or text to Kevin Ziehr at 817-946-5715. You may also mail your RSVP to PO Box 264 Cisco, TX 76437.

Donations and memorials for the cemetery may be mailed to: Pleasant Hill Cemetery Association PO Box 312 Cisco, TX 76437 Donations and memorials to the church may be mailed to: Pleasant Hill Baptist Church PO Box 264 Cisco, TX 76437

A CWPP helps communities become more resilient to wildfires by documenting local risks, assessing community capabilities, and identifying projects to implement over the next 5–10 years.

Your feedback will help ensure that wildfire risks have been accurately identified and that the actions included in the plan reflect the current needs of Eastland County residents.

Scan the QR Code on the right with your phone or enter langfordplanning.com/eastland-county-cwpp into your web browser to visit the Eastland County CWPP website and submit your comments or suggestions by September 7th, 2026 .

It's the perfect opportunity to fuel up for holiday festivities or enjoy a relaxing morning with your community.

Entry is a 'pay what you can' donation at the door, with all contributions directly supporting our community programs. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!

During the interview, the guests share the history of Avir at Woodlands Villas and discuss the services and amenities available to residents. Avir at Woodlands Villas offers several levels of care, including skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, and respite care. Having these services available within the same community helps provide continuity of care for residents and their families as needs change over time.

The assisted living community is a Type B facility, allowing staff to provide a higher level of assistance for residents who need help with everyday activities. This can include medication administration and assistance with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, transferring, and other personal- care needs.

The facility also offers a variety of activities designed to keep residents engaged, socially connected, and enjoying their days. These activities help create a strong sense of community while supporting residents’ quality of life and giving them opportunities to stay active and involved.

The conversation also highlights the importance of creating a welcoming environment where residents can feel at home while families have the reassurance of knowing that additional support and levels of care are available when needed.

Watch the full Rip’s Report interview here:https://www.youtube. com/live/XGGN5rqN-dI?is=GuV0CcZn7NCDOztB To schedule a visit to Avir at Woodlands Villas, call (254) 629-1001 or visit during normal business hours at: 125 Inspiration Blvd., Eastland, TX 76448 Follow Avir at Woodlands on Facebook for upcoming events, activities, and special announcements.

Watch past Rip’s Reports:https://www. youtube.com/live/5Dfh- K4C1Hc?si=oxfLs-GZnXJn8DaI8 Click playlists Subscribe to Eastland County Today:https:// publisher.etype.services/ Eastland-County- Today For subscription information or other questions, call Eastland County Today at (254) 629-1707.

“This budget will raise more total property taxes than last year’s budget by $573,218.37, which is a 5.7312% increase from last year’s budget, and of that amount $128,827.76 is tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year,” official county

records state.

Public hearings were held at the meeting regarding the county budget and tax rate. No citizens attending voiced an opinion on these items.

Commissioner Robert Rains moved to ratify the proposed 2026 maintenance and operations tax rate of 32.9500 cents and to ratify the proposed 2026 debt service tax rate of 0.007891 cent. It was also moved that the 2026 property tax rate be increased by the adoption of a total tax rate of 33.7391 cents, which is effectively a 9.8375 percent increase in the total tax rate.

All this items were adopted unanimously, as we wrote above.

To Note: “This tax rate will raise more taxes for maintenance and operations than last year’s tax rate. The tax rate will effectively (be) raised by 9.8375% and will increase taxes for maintenance and operations on a $100,000 home by approximately $30.22.”

In the Order Adopting Budget for Fiscal Year 2027, the Court orders that “said Budget be, and it is hereby, approved and ad- opted showing the total appropriation for the General Fund maintenance and operations budget.”

County Court Adopts Budget

The Court further ordered that $12,000 of the market value of each residential homestead for which a valid homestead with the Eastland County Appraisal District, of age or older, is exempt from ad valorem taxes in the amount of exemption levied by Eastland County. This is also ordered for persons disabled, but those eligible for both is entitled to only one of the above, and may choose either.

Additionally at the meeting, Judge Hullum recommended the County Wide Burn Ban remain in place. All agreed with the recommendation. set, as well as salaries, expenses, and other allowances of all elected County and Precinct July 2nd in Eastland County Today). Several changes were made to the proposed FY 2027 budget, considered warranted by law and required by the interest of the taxpayers by the court, prior to adopting with the County Clerk and County Auditor.

- Reported by Margaret Hetrick

Don’t be scared, be prepared!

The supper in Eastland WDNHV SDFH WH VW Tuesday of every month, LWLVHHWHHQH,WV a home-cooked meal, and anyone from any community is invited for food and fellowship. We encourage families and individuals to attend.

The menu for September…Chicken Pot Pie, yams, rolls, salad & dessert. Washed down with tea donated by Dairy Queen in Cisco and then our drawing for gift baskets put together by Wild Flower Florist in Cisco. Join us from 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 ministry project, run by the parishioners of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

So, bring yourself, friends, or strangers. We know our guests come for the cooking, but they stay for the socializing and basket drawing. The only requirement is an appetite.

2 weeks later, the Friendship Meal is in Cisco on Tuesday, September 15th, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Same menu. The meal will be at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Hall, located on the corner of West 11th miss it! questions, please call 2303.

Program: Registration at 10:00 am Welcome and Recognition of Families and former church pastors Singing and Special Music Testimonies Cemetery Report from Gary Harris Offerings for both the church and the cemetery association Recognition of oldest man and woman attending Message: Matt Lawrence Prayer and Dismissal Luncheon meal and deserts provided by the church and cemetery association officers Please join us for worship and fellowship. RSVP for the meal can be made via voice message or text to Kevin Ziehr at 817-946-5715. You may also mail your RSVP to PO Box 264 Cisco, TX 76437.

Donations and memorials for the cemetery may be mailed to: Pleasant Hill Cemetery Association PO Box 312 Cisco, TX 76437 Donations and memorials to the church may be mailed to: Pleasant Hill Baptist Church PO Box 264 Cisco, TX 76437

Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodeny Scott personally stopped construction until he could visit the region.

Hundreds of people showed up at the annual meeting of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, gathering outside its headquarters in what resembled a tailgate party.

The federal government already has sent bulldozers into Big Bend National Park Among those trying to rally people to the cause was former Republican Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson. "I have yet to encounter anybody in the Big Bend area who does not oppose a wall," he said.

While Big Bend is a national park, several state parks could be affected by attempts to build border barriers, including Big Bend State Park and Seminole Canyon State Park.

TPWD chair Paul Foster addressed the concerns of those attending the annual meeting.

"I think we agree with most of you and are working with the governor's office and the federal government," he said. "Our goal is to minimize damage to the ecosystem and the natural beauty of not only the parks, but the whole area."

Abbott proposes extending ban on H-1B

visas

Gov. Greg Abbott last week proposed extending a ban on H-1B visas used to hire foreign workers to all Texas public school employees, The Texas Tribune reported. A similar ban is already in place for Texas universities. The governor says he will push for legislation to ensure "exactly zero" of Texas school employers are in the state on federal visas.

"We're tired of the federal government not putting limits on who can come in under H-1Bs, and because of the federal government's failure to control H-1B visas, Texas is having to put our foot down, and that means making some tough decisions," Abbott said.

Texas school districts employ more educators holding H-1B visas than any other state, according to an analysis from the National Education Association. Dallas ISD leads in the number of educators hired with H-1B visas at 171.

The policy change would require legislation to pass during the next regular session of the Texas Legislature, which begins in January.

Patrick threatens schools who retain ‘inappropriate’ books Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick threatened last week to lower ratings of schools who do not pull books marked as "inappropriate," The Dallas Morning News reported.

"We're coming for the books," Patrick said in a message to superintendents. "We ask that you do it on your own and remove these books." Patrick controls the state Senate agenda and says school districts may eventually face funding cuts if those books remain in school libraries. He did not say how that would occur.

Abbott last year signed a bill into law that gives school boards the authority to pull books from school libraries if parents or members of the public believe they are indecent or profane. Patrick said new penalties are necessary because school districts are not complying.

Democrats have said stricter oversight over books in school libraries threatens local control and access to books.

Up to 25,000 plugged oil and gas wells could fail, group warns A new watchdog group’s analysis of Texas oil and gas well data claims 25,000 plugged wells across the state are at risk of failure, threatening to contaminate the aquifers many communities rely upon for their water supply, the Houston Chronicle reported.

The number of socalled “zombie wells” — plugged wells that rise from the dead — is about 50 times higher than previously reported.

Leaking zombie wells are a growing problem in ing number of plugged wells fail, sending toxic wastewater up to the surface and contaminating aquifers.

The group, Future Heist, has created an interactive map to identify the wells at risk.

The group scraped state websites for information. It assigned each well a score based on several factors: the well plug’s age, well construction quality, compliance history and its proximity to oil and gas wastewater injection. All the information is publicly available on websites belonging to the Texas Railroad Commission. reporting on what oil and gas did to Texas, and the facts were always right there in the public record — just buried where no one could use them,” Saul Elbein, Future Heist’s director, said in a statement. “Future Heist digs them out and makes them impossible to ignore, so people can see what was done to them and decide what comes next.”

Texas crime rate falls for third straight year The state’s crime rate has declined for the past three years, according to data released by the Texas Department of Public Safety, including by 13% in 2025. The crime rate peaked in 2022 at 2,830.14 offenses per 100,000 people and has declined each year since.

Overall, the violent crime rate is down 13.19% from 2024. The property crime rate is down 13.31% for the same period.

Abbott touted anti-crime measures taken during recent legislative sessions. “We passed the toughest bail reform package in state history, backed law enforcement, and targeted violent repeat offenders,” he said.

Smuggled Texas fuel is bankrolling cartels Fuel smuggling has likely surpassed narcotics as the Mexican drug cartels’ leading income source, according to DPS and reported by the Houston Chronicle. DPS reports the cartels smuggle fuel worth $12 billion to $17 billion a year from Texas into Mexico.

“Fuel trafficking is a threat that is operating in plain sight,” Col. Freeman Martin, the department’s director, told the state Senate Select Committee on Homeland and Border Security. “They’re loading fuel trucks …. or any container you can think of and hauling it south.”

Cartels have been known to drive empty trucks into legally purchased and taxfree fuel from licensed terminals. The trucks are then driven to unregulated fuels sites, where cheaper products are blended into the fuel. Customs documents are forged or changed, and the fuel is taken to Mexico, Martin said.

One possible solution is to make it illegal for trucks carrying hazardous materials to deviate from pre-planned routes or to carry more than 80,000 pounds, according to state

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.

I needed it most.

Wanda Baird on behalf of my husband Don Baird

A CWPP helps communities become more resilient to wildfires by documenting local risks, assessing community capabilities, and identifying projects to implement over the next 5–10 years.

Your feedback will help ensure that wildfire risks have been accurately identified and that the actions included in the plan reflect the current needs of Eastland County residents.

Scan the QR Code on the right with your phone or enter langfordplanning.com/eastland-county-cwpp into your web browser to visit the Eastland County CWPP website and submit your comments or suggestions by September 7th, 2026 .

(8-27, 9-3-2026)

Register Today Children receive: Peer interaction Fishing Guidance & Basic Techniques Fishing Fun Pack-Rod & Reel, Tackle Box, T-shirt & Hat, Photo Plaque Join us for a morning of fishing followed by lunch and a special awards ceremony!

Pre-registration is

required, space is limited Participants must be at least 6 years old Accessible for all special needs Parent/Guardian must attend with each child Free event, lunch included Questions: Contact Event Coordinator Steve Key 254-6316026 lakeleon@castforkids. org Contact your local agent today Eastland County Farm Bureau 1311 E. Main, Eastland 254-629-1704 aschneider@txfb-ins. com https://castforkids. org/event/lakeleon/

GRAHAM LIVESTOCK Commission 204 Hwy 67 South Graham, Texas 940-549-0078 

August 24, 2026 

Receipts were 1007 including 208 Packer Cows, Bred Cows and Pairs. 799 calves and yearlings. We had 149 consigners and 40 buyers. Packer cows were $15 lower. Packer bulls were steady to $10 lower. Young replacement cows and pairs were steady to $250 lower. The market on steers and heifers weighing 600# and under were $20 lower. The market on steers and heifers weiging over 600# were $15 lower. President Trump’s recent trade statements negatively impacted both the broader financial markets and livestock sector. This has introduced severe supply chain competitive between American Ranchers and foreign countries. Please pray for our current leaders to make better decisions that positively impact our industry along with our troops and much needed rain. 

RECEIVING STATION 

For GLC located at Old Mineral Wells Sale Barn 2805 N. Oak Ave., Mineral Wells, TX 

Open Saturday & Sunday 8 AM-5 PM 

Representative Sales 

Terry Blanks, Haskell, TX Blk Bull 2150# @ $232 Larry Gerhardt, Cisco, TX 4 Blk Bulls 235# @ $600 ea. 3 Blk Hfrs 218# @ $500 ea. Todd Matlock, Bowie, TX 8 Blk Strs 785# @ $306 ea. Blaine Buerger, Archer City, TX Blk Cow 1115# @ $185 Blk Bull 1940# @ $210 Adam Hampton, DeLeon, TX 2 Gray Strs 667# @ $316 ea. Yellow 585# @ $346 Tom Wachendarter, Plano, TX 3 Blk Strs 606# @ $340 ea. 15 Blk Strs 705# @ $339 ea. Jay Cannon, Paradise, TX Red Bull 450# @ $400 Yellow Pair $4800 Hat 6 Ranch, Weatherford, Tx 7 Blk Bulls 622# @ $315 ea. 4 Blk Bulls 507# @ $363 ea. Mike Wilfong, Stephenville, TX 2 Red Wf Strs 422# @ $427 ea. 2 Blk Strs 535# @ $366 ea. Darin Drury, Throckmorton, TX 6 Blk Bulls 638# @ $300 ea. 7 Blk Bulls 579# @ $340 ea. Jenifer Holland, Comanche, TX 4 Blk Pairs $4500 ea. 3 Blk Pairs $4900 ea. Luis Varela, Ft. Worth, TX 5 Red Hfrs 320# @ $440 ea. 3 Red Bulls 258# @ $570 ea. Sale Every Monday at 10 AM Ronnie Hardin 940- 521-2158 Danny Hardin 940- 550-8109