Ask Billie

You are a great group of readers and usually catch the mistakes long before the writer. Yes, you read last week's article twice. Sorry about that, but a first in the 20 years of columns for the Wharton Journal-Spectator. The amazing thing to me is that it has not happened more often.

Have you been around a news room on press day? Take a look at any newspaper and wonder how world news, local happenings, advertising and all the other topics make it to deadline. An article run twice seems very insignificant.

I am sure we could all write a book on things we learned from our children. We may not realize it at the moment but rearing children is a twoway street.

One day, after being totally exasperated, I asked my child if she were ever going to grow up. Her reply has stayed with me, "No, because grown-ups have no fun".

I decided she may be right and I would not grow up either. Someone has said that when you grow up you miss the wonders of childhood. The child in me still enjoys Halloween and it is understandable that it is the second most decorated holiday.

Houston Chronicle writer Leon Hale wrote that he felt deprived because Halloween had come and he was without any spooky plans. Next year we must remember to invite him to Wharton. Thanks to everyone; churches, businesses and individuals who made it possible for hundreds of children to have a fun evening.

Fall is a wonderful time of the year in Wharton County. October was a special time with absolutely beautiful weather and I hope you have noticed the butterflies on their way south. A back drive bougainvillea in full bloom seems to be a favorite spot.

Shortly after daybreak most mornings the sounds of ducks and geese can be heard, reminding us cool weather is on the way. What a great place we have to call home.

While we are enjoying our quality of life let us not forget it came at a price. From the early beginning of Wharton County, our sons and daughters have gone into the military and many did not return.

Since Nov. 11, the official Veterans Day, falls on Sunday, we will commemorate the date Monday, Nov. 12. The time is 11 o'clock at the Wharton County Memorial Flame.

For many years our local Pilot International Club has planned a program fitting the occasion. The names of persons who lost their lives in each of the wars will be called. This is a small but significant way to remember their sacrifices.

At the end of the ceremony, at approximately 11:30 a.m., everyone is invited to reconvene at the Wharton County Sheriff's office for a ground breaking. This is the site chosen for the Wharton County Law Enforcement Memorial. This date and time seems significant because we have had five peace officers who have given their lives to protect Wharton County citizens.

You remember this is a totally volunteer project made possible through donations from businesses and individuals throughout Wharton County. For tax purposes you may make your donation through the Wharton County 100 Club.

You may mail them to P.O. Box 46, El Campo 77437, hand it to one of the 100 Club Board members or drop it by the Sheriff's office.

If there are questions I will be glad to answer them. Thanks in advance for your generosity and please join us Monday, Nov. 12 for both ceremonies.