H.R. No. 1971 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Hometown News in McLennan County published its last issue on January 28, 2015, and this is a fitting opportunity to pay tribute to the history and achievements of this unique local enterprise; and WHEREAS, The paper was founded by Roger Jones, a veteran of the newspaper industry who first worked in the Waco Tribune composing room in 1953, when he was still in high school; in 1960, he went to work for the Dallas Morning News, and in 1961, he purchased the Patillo Printing Company and the Waco Farm and Labor Journal and established his own commercial print shop, the Jones Printing Company; and WHEREAS, In the mid-1980s, Mr. Jones saw an opportunity to create a local publication that represented the unique character of southwest McLennan County; from its first issue in August 1985, Hometown News provided coverage of city and school officials, outstanding citizens, and the achievements of the area's students and student athletes; and WHEREAS, Hometown News is closing up shop due to a changing media environment, but its publisher and staff may take great pride in the fine job they did sharing the stories of the communities they served; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the last issue of Hometown News and commend Roger Jones and his staff for their exemplary service to their readers; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Jones as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Anderson of McLennan ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1971 was adopted by the House on May 21, 2015, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House