Newton County approves proclamations honoring Harvest Call volunteers and BACA Heroes Weekend

The Newton County Commissioners Court on an April meeting read and approved proclamations recognizing two volunteer groups: Harvest Call, credited with rebuilding 24 homes in Newton and Jasper counties after April 2024 flooding, and Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), designated for a BACA Heroes Weekend in the last weekend of April 2025.

The court read a proclamation for Harvest Call, noting volunteers rebuilt 24 homes and provided “emotional and spiritual support” to families affected by the April 2024 floods. Billy Jordan, introduced as representing Midnight Disaster Service (a volunteer group), spoke about long-term recovery work and the retired volunteers who had been working locally since October. Several Harvest Call representatives — Tim Slagle, Barbara, Paul and Loretta Zimmerman — stood with the group during the reading.

The court then read and approved a proclamation recognizing BACA Heroes Weekend. An unnamed speaker who identified herself as president of the local BACA chapter described the organization as an international nonprofit that supports children who have suffered abuse and works with local officials and programs. The court pledged to coordinate a photograph that would include the county judge, sheriff and district attorney when those officials are available.

Both proclamations were approved by voice vote. Commissioner White moved to approve the Harvest Call proclamation; the motion was seconded and approved. A separate motion to approve the BACA proclamation was seconded by Commissioner Hobson and approved.

The court said it will place a separate formal proclamation for Harvest Call on a future agenda so the group can receive a copy before leaving on a scheduled trip.