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Proud of the shelter
Hi, I’m Joe Parnell, your Kaufman County Court at Law Judge. I am a fifth generation Kaufman County resident and take great pride in Kaufman County, Texas. When it was time for my daughter, Laura, to come into this world, I was stationed in England in the Navy. Since she was not going to be born in Texas I did the next best thing I could for her. I had soil from Terrell shipped to London and placed it under the delivery bed so she would be born on Texas soil. Fifteen months later my son, John, was also born on Texas soil in London. Later Texas Governor Ann Richards signed a proclamation with the official seal of the state of Texas recognizing them both as being born in Texas since they were born on Kaufman County, Texas soil. They both attended Terrell High School now and appreciate being Texans and part of Kaufman County. They both realize how fortunate they are to be able to participate in band, sports, and community and church activities. Many children this age and under are not so fortunate. As the Juvenile Judge and Chairman of Kaufman County Juvenile Board, I see firsthand how many of our children are abandoned, neglected and/or abused. Fortunately for us, and especially for them, we have the Kaufman County Children’s Shelter. It is a top line facility. I take great pride in taking friends and visitors for a tour of this wonderful establishment. The needs of abandoned or abused children are fully met by a loving and caring professional staff under the direction of Rick and LaReta Williams. The good reputation of our children’s shelter has spread throughout the area and is the envy of surrounding counties. Our county is rapidly growing and so are the needs of our children’s shelter. The shelter needs our help. There are many ways that groups or individuals can help. In my court, juries are given the opportunity to donate their jury service fees to the shelter. My Sunday school class provides parties and presents for the children as well as spending time with them during parties. Several clubs and organizations hold fund-raisers for children’s presents or year round needs of the children. Individual donations and donations in memory of a loved one are always accepted. If we all work together, Rick and LaReta Williams will be able to continue their mission. We are blessed to have them. Thank you for helping us preserve our most precious resource-our children. |