August 23, 2019

August 23, 2019 12 PAGES FULL OF NEWS, SPORTS, AND OPINION

STAMFORD

American THE NEW

City Council Moves Toward Adopting the Tax Rate

BY KAY SPEARS Mayor James Decker opened the second of two regular monthly meetings of the Stamford City Council, held on Monday, August 19, 2019 at Stamford City Hall. Everyone rose before Ken Roberson gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. In attendance were Mayor Decker, Council Members Robert Wingrove, Ken Roberson, Jimmy Doan, Paul Wright, City Manager Alan Plumlee, City Attorney Raymond Hollabaugh, CFO Karen Lou Graham and Chief of Police Darwin Huston.

The Consent Agenda contained the minutes from the regular City Council

Meeting on August 5, 2019 and the Work Session on August 12, 2019. These minutes were approved.

There were no Citizen’s Comments presented to the Council, and no action was taken on the Public Hearing for City Budget Fiscal Year 2019-2020. Two public hearings are required by law, and this was the first one. The contractual agreement, with stated changes, with Ericksdahl Water Supply was approved.

Next on the agenda Chief of Police Darwin Huston addressed the Council concerning three City employees that were not included in the raises given this year.

SEE CITY, PAGE 12 TTHE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 11, ISSUE 14 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 98, ISSUE 20 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 114, ISSUE 21

Commissioners Called Meeting to Discuss Detention Facility

BY KAY SPEARS

Darwin Huston, Stamford Chief of Police addresses the City Council at their meeting on Monday, August 19, 2019 concerning this year’s salaries for City employees.

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A Called Meeting of the Jones County Commissioners Court met on Monday, August 19, 2019 at the Courthouse in Anson, TX. In attendance were Judge Dale Spurgin, County Commissioners James Clawson, Lonnie Vivian, Ross Davis, Joel Spraberry, County Clerk LeeAnn Jennings, County Tax Assessor Collector Gloria Little and County Sheriff Danny Jimenez.

The Public Participation Form was pointed out by Judge Spurgin, inviting anyone to fill out if they would like to participate in the public comment portion of the meeting.

The 2020 Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Fees was discussed. Judge Spurgin stated this item needs to be adopted by the end of this month. It was approved to not make any changes on the fees. The Jones County 2020 Holiday Schedule for the usual 13 days was approved.

Next on the agenda was to Discuss and Take Action on Texas Midwest/Jones County Detention Facility.

Judge Spurgin convened the Board Meeting of the Texas Midwest Facility Corporation.

SEE COMMISSIONERS, PAGE 6

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MARK THE DATE...

MEDICAL FUND: There has been a medical fund account set up for Beth Lawson Green at First Bank Texas in Stamford. Please help out with a donation if you desire. God bless you!

DONATE: Denise Dennis is still collecting aluminum cans for recycling to raise money to donate to West Texas Rehab Center. You can drop them off at her house on the corner of Reynolds & Vassar. You can also drop off cans or monetary donations for her here at the Stamford American or mail to Stamford American, P O BOX 870, Stamford, TX and note on the check it is for Denise Dennis.

AUG 26TH TOWN HALL: State Representative Stan Lambert will be hosting a legislative town hall forum across HD 71.

Following a presentation from Rep. Lambert about the outcomes of the 86th Legislature, attendees will be able to join the discussion about their state government and the impact of the past session.

The Jones County town hall will be Monday, August 26th (5:30-6:30pm) at the Anson Public Library - 1137 12th St., Anson, TX 79501.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST

Friday 99 | 76

Saturday 98 | 75

Sunday 101 | 76

Monday 101 | 76

Tuesday 98 | 74

Wednesday 97 | 74

Thursday 98 | 73

The weather is provided for you

by Country Drug Store. We’re here for you Rain or Shine.

SEPT 10 FUNDRAISER: Taste of Country sponsored by Noah Project, Haskell Civic Center, Tuesday, September 10 from 5:00 – 7:00. Silent Auction from 4:30-6:30.

Tickets are $15, call 940864-2551 or at the office on the 3rd floor of the Haskell County Courthouse. Noah Project serves Haskell, Jones, Knox, Stonewall and Throckmorton counties. If you need more information, call Tommye Jo Clark, chairman, at 940996-6084.

BIRTHDAYS

AUG 25 – Larry Mueller AUG 28 –Maddielynn Clifton, Jimmie Wilhelm AUG 29 – Terri Plumlee AUG 31 – Jerry Hill, Tona Mullins

Know someone who is having a birthday? Please remember to call us at 325-773-5550 and let us know!

Callie Metler-Smith | Publisher callie@americannewspapers.net Kay Spears | Editor kay@americannewspapers.net Gayle Lovvorn | Office Manager office@americannewspapers.net

Wood temporarily replaced the glass broken on the front door of the Cowboy Country Museum in Stamford, Texas. Thieves broke the glass to gain entrance on Sunday, August 18, 2019. The door was repaired on Wednesday, August 21, 2019.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Within Haskell, Jones, and Stonewall Counties: $30 Within Texas: $32 Within the United States: $35 DEADLINE

The deadline to submit news and advertising is 5 p.m. on Fridays. Exceptions may be granted only by permission from the publisher.

SUBMISSIONS POLICY

The New Stamford American reserves the right to reject unsolicited submissions for any reason. Articles and news items submitted are subject to editing by staff.

NOTICE

Any erroneous reflection upon the character, reputation or standing of any individual, firm or corporation will be gladly corrected upon being brought to the attention of the publisher.

The New Stamford American (USPS 025-332) is published weekly at 102 South Swenson, Stamford, Jones County, Texas by Clear Fork Media Group LLC. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stamford, Texas 79553. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The New Stamford American, P O BOX 870, Stamford, Texas 79553 MEMBER 2019 TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

102 S. Swenson, P.O. Box 870, Stamford TX 79553 * 325-773-5550 * FAX: 325-773-5551

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AUGUST 23, 2019 3

OBITUARIES

Homer Alf Swinson Homer Alf Swinson, 84, of Stanton, Texas passed away on the August 20, 2019. A funeral service was held 10:00am Thursday, August 22, 2019, at the Downtown Church of Christ, Stanton, Texas. Interment followed at Evergreen Cemetery in Stanton.

Homer Alf Swinson was born on October 5, 1934 in Cisco, Texas to Cicero Van and Emmie Reeves Swinson.

Homer was the 6th of seven children.

The family moved frequently, and Homer started school in the Pleasant Valley community near Abilene, Texas. The family later moved to Nugent, Texas, northeast of Abilene and lived on the Clearfork of the Brazos River, where he roamed the riverbanks catching fish and hunting squirrels. He attended and graduated High School in Lueders, Texas in 1952.

Homer worked in Anson, Texas, delivering bulk fuels from 1952 until 1957. He met the love of his life, Torchy Derden, in 1954 at a little hamburger joint called the “Hut”, where Homer would stop in for a daily milkshake.

Torchy’s mother thought Homer was very cute for a high school boy. She played matchmaker and set up Torchy to meet him. Torchy was 6 years Homer’s junior, which after a few dates Torchy’s mom discovered, and was horrified. It was too late.

In 1957 Homer was drafted and inducted into the army and went to basic training in Fort Ord, California. Upon completing basic training and subsequent leave, he was to ship out to Germany. At 17, Torchy flew to LA, met her sister and brother-in-law, met Homer on leave, and she and Homer were married August 9, 1957.

Homer spent two years in the army in Germany accompanied by his young bride there. He was honorably discharged in 1959 and the couple returned to Abilene, Texas.

Homer was offered a pumping job in Midland, Texas and in 1959 Homer and Torchy moved to Midland. Mike was born in 1960. Homer and Torchy continued to work and live in Midland and Mandy was born there in 1962. Homer was transferred to Eastland in 1964 and Melinda was born while the family lived in Eastland in 1964. After a move to Abilene in 1964, Homer moved his family to Stanton, Texas in January of 1966. Homer spent the remaining 53 years of his life as a resident of Stanton. Homer’s family and the care of his family was his life. He was the hardest working man any of us knew. Homer loved and cherished us, every one.

In 1968 Homer opened the first carwash in Stanton, which served the community for 50 years. In 1979 he formed Swinsons Contractors Inc. and owned and operated that business until the summer of 2016, when at 82, his health would no longer permit him to work.

Homer loved the lake and Possum Kingdom (PK) was THE lake. From the time he and Torchy began dating in 1954, PK was a magical place of fun and memory making.

A place where daddy became a playmate for us kids and the hardworking man played hard.

We all grew up, married and Homer became Papaw in 1986 and welcomed the first two, Dex and Drew, of 5 grandchildren whom he loved dearly. In 1989 Tyler was born, Dakota came along in 1990 and Flint in 1995.

Homer’s grandchildren were the light of his life and nothing was too much trouble for him to see the joy in their eyes. Going to the lake at Possum Kingdom was a special place and time for them all.

The memories made at PK, from the time Homer and Torchy were dating and enjoying the company of Homer’s siblings, to those memories he and Torchy made with us kids and finally those precious memories made with his grandchildren. Those times were truly the spice of Homer’s life and those memories and stories will live in family lore for decades to come.

In 2011 Papaw was blessed by the birth of the first of three great granddaughters. Paisyn Allred, who shared a birthday with him, and Falynn in 2014, the second great granddaughter. Paisyn and Falynn loved their Papaw as he loved them and shared dance moves and Christmases and loved to trick or treat Papaw and Torchy (Tata) on Halloween. In October 2018 Wesley Kate Swinson came along and spent a charmed Christmas with Papaw that year.

Homer is survived by his wife of 62 years Torchy Derden Swinson; three children and their spouses, Mike and wife Darla Swinson of Midland, Texas, Mandy and husband Kevin Newman of Stanton, Texas, Melinda and husband Rusty Allred of Graham Texas; five grandchildren, Dexter and wife Hollie Allred of Stanton, Texas, Drew and wife Lacey Swinson of Rockwall, Texas, Tyler and wife Marquelyn Swinson of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dakota Newman of Stanton and Flynt Newman of Stanton; three great granddaughters, Paisyn and Falynn Allred and Wesley Swinson; one sister, Maybell Trout of Eastland, Texas and numerous nieces and nephews.

Homer was preceded in death by his father, Cicero Swinson, mother, Emmie Reeves Swinson, four sisters, Mardell Trout, Margaret Brown, Byrdie Daniels, Lavada Hargrove and one brother, Luther Cicero LC Swinson.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Legacy Ranch in Midland, Texas for their very personal and loving care of their Husband and Father during his illness. Additionally, the family would like to thank the Make a Difference Home Health for their love and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New Mexico Christians Children’s Home in Portales, New Mexico.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

Jordan Dixon Kirk Jordan Dixon Kirk, 4 of Nocona, went to be with Jesus on Saturday, August 17 surrounded by his family and friends.

Jordan was born August 7, 2015 and joined our family December 2, 2015. One of Jordan’s most memorable features was his toothy grin; his smile could brighten anyone’s day. Jordan loved all kinds of music, but his favorite was Moana.

Although Jordan had many limitations, it did not stop him from making huge impacts on so many. Jordan loved going to school in Mrs. Q’s Pre-K class and being spoiled by his nurses.

Our fondest memory is our recent family vacation to Disney World through Make-A-Wish. Jordan’s favorite time of the day was when his brothers came home from school to play with him.

Jordan is survived by his parents, Jeremy and Meagan Kirk, brothers Larry Morales, Finn Goette of Germany, Jacob Scogman of Sweden, Logan Barnes, Jay Kirk, Michael Kirk, Biscuit Kirk, and Jaxon Kirk; his grandparents Traci and Ted Murphey, Bart and Mary Rosenquist, and Jeff and Starla Kirk; and numerous great-grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Jordan’s celebration of life will be Tuesday, August 20, 10:00 AM at Lighthouse Assembly of God in Bowie under the direction of Scott-Morris Funeral Home with Brother Justin Harris officiating. Jordan’s family will receive visitors Monday, August 19, 4:00 - 6:00 at Lighthouse Assembly of God. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jordan to “A World for Children Foster Services” in Wichita Falls, TX through their website: https://www.awfc.org/ Jordan radiated joy with his infectious laugh and Jordy Smacks.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES: Ericksdahl Cooperative Gin Company of Avoca, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit No. 44541, which would authorize continued operation of a Cotton Gin located at 11958 County Road 241, Avoca, Jones County, Texas 79503. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.

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Operation Round Up

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ac ce pt fo ing ch r l a a oc pp ne rita al lica ed bl tio s. e ns

A helping hand for the Big Country since 2015.

Operation Round Up is supported by Big Country Electric Cooperative members whose electric bills are "rounded up" to the nearest dollar.

Every penny stays right here at home, in the counties we serve: Borden, Fisher, Garza, Haskell, Jones, Kent, Mitchell, Nolan, Scurry, Shackelford, Stonewall and Throckmorton.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR HELP? Individuals and organizations for food, shelter, clothing, health, education, or other charitable needs.

Visit bigcountry.coop and click on SERVICE BEYOND ELECTRICITY for more information or to download an application.

Application Deadline: Thursday, August 29 at 5:00 p.m.

Contact Sarah McLen with any questions: (325) 776-3803 or smclen@bigcountry.coop

HOT--DRY --PRAY FOR RAIN The weather has not changed, but there was a cloud in the North West last evening and it sure did do a lot of loud thundering. It sprinkled here while the sun was shining. I suppose someone got a shower out of that.

Later in the night the lightning was so bad and the thunder was so loud, and I got several drops of rain. Today it’s back up to 107, sure would like a BIG shower.

I feel for the students and teachers in this heat, but guess they have a cool building and have to stay inside.

Those poor football players.

Remember our Musical is Saturday evening. The concession stand opens at 5:30 PM so come hungry and the program starts at 6 PM. We will be looking for you.

Last Sunday, Bo and Whiz Creighton took Mittie Dunham with them to Lubbock to see the Dailey and Vincent Show for her birthday. While there they enjoyed seeing Prairie Dog Town and The Windmill Farm.

On Saturday, Mittie Dunham attended the funeral for Alpha Grice in Jayton. Then she had lunch in Jayton with her sister-in-law, Catherine Dunham, and her son Todd Dunham from Clyde.

The Senior Dance on Thursday evening at the Old Glory Community was well attended and everyone enjoyed the great music and the delicious snacks. Thanks to the ladies for bringing some good food.

The next Senior Dance will be on Sept. 9 and everyone is invited to attend. Come out and

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

OLD GLORY NEWS

By Anita Dozier join in the fun for just $5.00.

The Hobby Club met on Thursday in the Sagerton Community Center for their monthly meeting with JoAnn Doss, Tomzie Steele, Cheryl Hertel, Karleigh Hertel, Joyce Lefevre,, Dorothy Toney, Anita Dozier, Vickie Wilhite, Nancy Griffin and Mittie Dunham present. Following the roll call, the minutes, and the financial report, the club began their meeting. Many items on the agenda were discussed including the quilt, tickets, prices, booths, and food for the Bazaar that will be coming up on November 2. (If you are a Vendor and would like a booth, please call Tomzie Steele.) Also discussed were repair on the rooms that are in need, club night out, projects for September and October. Scholarships, and Christmas Ornaments.

They also discussed making a recipe book and the need of good recipes. We are still in need of a few more fruit jar lid rings by the next meeting, if you have any to spare we would love to have them.

Following the meeting the group enjoyed the delicious refreshments that Cheryl and Karleigh served. Winning the

door prize was Vickie.

Carm Letz drove to Haskell to meet the teachers with her granddaughters, Darbee in the third and Laynee in the second. On Saturday, Carm accompanied Kraig and Leslie Kupatt to Albany to attend the wedding for Jessica Decker and Ryan Vaughn. Later Carm drove to Haskell to get the three granddaughters, Darbee, Laynee, and Hazelee to spend the night with her and Pa. They all went to church together on Sunday and then had lunch at the Pizza Hut in Stamford. Joining them for lunch were Terry and Laramie Letz and Brody of Sagerton, Doug and Debbie Vahlenkamp of OG and the girls’ mother, Lacey New of Haskell.

Colton Hill and Keana Serin of Lubbock came to visit Mittie Dunham and Shelly Dunham to help them celebrate their birthdays. Everyone enjoyed cake and ice cream.

Phyllis Letz stated that she was busy with doctor appointments, but she did go to Lueders on Tuesday to help Jana with her classroom, and said they had it looking really cute for her students.

Later Phyllis and Jana went to Stamford and joined other family members at a restaurant to help Madisyn celebrate her birthday. Enjoying the celebration were Casey and Emery Letz, Cale Letz, all of Stamford, Madisyn from Tech, Jana of Abilene, Suzie McLellan, Mike Lefevre, of Stamford, and Danny and Phyllis from OG. Happy Birthday, Madisyn.

Thought for the week: “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.”

Happy Birthday wishes go to Keli Lawson, Stanley Diers, Eric Barbee, Sharon Brinson, Clark Terrell, Robert Ace Turner, Glen Pierce, Gail Morrow Shirley Smith, Russell Flanary, Herman Hearn, Deanne Conner, Kinsey Brown, Carl Thompson, Lottie Edwards, George Abernathy, Wyatt Smith, Jean Godfrey, Britta Manske, and Andrea Bailey.

We wish you many more.

Anniversary greetings go to Eddie and Martha Wolsch, Jay and Sharon Beakley, and Keith and Lou Corzine. Have a wonderful day.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Governor Takes Action To Prevent Acts Of Terrorism Texas now boasts its own Domestic Terrorism Task Force, established by order of the governor in the wake of the deadly Aug. 3 shooting in El Paso.

Twenty-two people were killed and 24 injured by a suspect firing a military-style assault rifle in a popular shopping venue.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Aug. 14 said the task force’s job will be to analyze and provide advice on strategies to maximize law enforcement’s ability to protect against acts of domestic terrorism. The first meeting is set for Aug. 30.

“Our top priority is to keep Texans safe in their communities, he said, adding that “Texas is stronger when we come together in pursuit of a shared goal, and today’s actions are vital steps in our ongoing fight against extremism and violence.

We stand united against those who wish to bring harm to our state, and together we will build a safer future for every Texan.”

Meanwhile, Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to: —Conduct a state intelligence assessment on the domestic terrorism threat; —Establish a Domestic Terrorism Section within the Texas Fusion Center to proactively seek, assess and monitor domestic terrorism and other mass casualty threats; —Coordinate with the designated regional fusion centers in Texas to increase the detection and monitoring of domestic terrorism and other mass casualty threats; —Establish Domestic Terrorism Teams comprised of DPS Special Agents to provide immediate direct support to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces and increase the number of special agents to conduct domestic counterterrorism investigations; —Increasing the number of DPS special agents and analysts in the Texas Anti-Gang Centers conducting investigations of criminal gangs affiliated with Neo Nazi and White Nationalist groups and networks espousing terrorist attacks.

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ed Sterling

TASK FORCE MEMBERS NAMED The Governor’s office posted the following list of those who will serve on the new Domestic Terrorism Task Force: Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dennis Bonnen and Attorney General Ken Paxton. Also, DPS Chief Steve McCraw, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd; Major General Tracy Norris, Texas Military Department; Executive Director Amanda Crawford, Texas Department of Information Resources; and Executive Director Carter Smith, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.

Also included are members of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, members of the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Attorney John Bash, Western District of Texas; Jeff Murray, U.S. Department of Homeland Security; members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Lubbock County District Attorney K. Sunshine Stanek; El Paso Police Chief Greg Allen, Hidalgo County Sheriff Eddie Guerra, Hidalgo; and Capt.

Anthony Carter, Collin County Sheriff’s Office, North Texas Fusion Center.

Fusion centers combine the capabilities of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in combating criminal activity.

TEA RELEASES RATINGS The Texas Education Agency on Aug. 9 released preliminary financial accountability ratings for more than 1,100 school districts and charters across the state.

According to the agency, 87 percent earned the highest

preliminary rating possible for 2018-2019. A school district or open-enrollment charter is assigned one of four possible letter grades — A, B, C or F — and a financial management rating of Superior, Above Standard Achievement, Meets Standard or Substandard Achievement.

Ratings for 2018-2019 are based on annual financial reports provided to TEA by districts and charters for the 2018 fiscal year.

TEXAS’ NOTES RATED HIGH State Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Aug. 15 announced Texas repeated its high credit ratings for this year’s Texas Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes, short-term debt obligations to help the state manage its cash-flow needs for fiscal 2020.

“Texas has once again received the highest short-term credit ratings on these one-year notes,” Hegar said. “These high ratings, coupled with the maintenance of our AAA longterm ratings, help keep Texas’ borrowing costs low and save taxpayer dollars as we manage our cash flow. Our creditworthiness reflects our conservative approach to financial management, an increasingly diverse economy and our broad and rising employment base.”

Hegar added, however, that issues such as emerging trade tensions, the need to continue to address long-term obligations on the state’s balance sheet and increased spending pressures continue to pose potential risks to the Lone Star State’s future credit.

ECONOMY ADDS JOBS IN JULY The Texas Workforce Commission on Aug. 16 announced that in the month of July the state’s economy added 35,200 seasonally adjusted total nonfarm positions.

Also, the unemployment rate held steady in July at 3.4 percent, matching the all-time record low set in June. The rate of 3.4 percent is the lowest recorded unemployment rate since tracking began in 1976.

AUGUST 23, 2019

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COMMISSIONERS: Continued From Page 1 The members of the Board are Judge Spurgin, Sheriff Jimenez, County Auditor Gwen Bailey, Commissioner Joel Spraberry and Bill Carman as the public representative. Attorney Herb Bristow with the law firm of Haley & Olson was asked to consult with the parties at the joint meeting during the Executive Session.

The Open Meeting resumed after the Executive Session had ended and legal advisor Bristow reported that Management Training Corporation (MTC) has been in negotiations with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to provide for the housing of detainees at the detention facility. “They are proposing to occupy the facility as soon as it can be retrofitted and decommissioned from its empty status.”

He read from the Inter-

governmental Services Agreement (IGSA), “to provide programs and care in a properly staffed and secure environment under the authority of the Immigration and Nationality Act. All persons in the custody of ICE are administrative detainees. The term recognizes that ICE detainees are not charged with criminal violations and are held in custody to ensure their presence throughout the administrative hearing process and to assure their presence for removal from the United States pursuant to the lawful final order by an Immigration Court, the Board of Immigration Appeals or other federal judicial body.”

Bristow went on to state that the agreement is to house a minimum of 750 up to 1,000 adult male detainees. He stated they are proposing to expand

the Processing Center to accommodate up to about 150 detainees at a time. Improvements are proposed to be made to include the addition of administrative offices in a 10,000 square foot building to be used by ICE and their staff.

He stated, “The facility will offer employment for 200 plus employees,” with the starting wages to be $20.49 plus the benefits for that particular category.

“That, obviously, will be a positive impact on the local community from the point of view of providing jobs.

The timing of the project is to get it ramped up and opened within 90 days of the date the Commissioners Court approves the proposed contract.”

Judge Spurgin stated that final documents will be reviewed at the next Commissioners Court, Monday, August 26, 2019. There is a

planned Executive Session at that meeting. There will be a three-board meeting at that time, Jones County Public Facility Corporation Board, Texas Midwest Public Facility Corporation Board, and Commissioners Court.

The following items were not covered at this meeting and will return on the agenda for Monday, August 26, 2019: Intergovernmental Services Agreement with ICE/Detention Compliance and Removals/Office of Acquisition Managed; Operation and Management Service Agreement with MTC; Agreement for Capital Improvement under the Operation and Management Services Agreement; Agreement to Restructure Payment Terms of Bonds and Amendment to Bond Documents; Agreement of Lease Property from Jones County Public Facility Corporation.

Pastor Richard Strait, Pastor Wes Horn and Sonny

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Attorney Herb Bristow represents Jones County in the negotiations with ICE concerning housing detainees at the Midwest/Jones County “Bluebonnet” Detention Facility. He was present at Commissioners Court on Monday, August 19, 2019.

Judge Spurgin then Campbell participated stated there was no action in the public comments to be taken on the 2020 segment of the meeting, Budget Workshop until the representing themselves. next meeting on August 26, Judge Spurgin stated he 2019. With no further busiwould look into the quesness, the Commissioners tions they brought up. The Court was adjourned.

Texas Midwest Public Facility Corporation Board was adjourned.

LOCAL CHURCHES Avoca Baptist Church Rev. Les Mims 773-3531 AM Worship: 11:00 Avoca United Methodist Church Dennis Huffaker 773-3909 AM Worship: 9:45 Bethel Church of God in Christ Pastor Session 407 W Handlan 325-773-5730 Bethel (Christ) Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 1024 E. Vanderbilt 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 9:00 Bethel Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 10707 N. FM 600 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 11:00

Central Presbyterian Rev. Dr. Kelly Pigott 601 Rowland 325-773-3381 AM Worship: 11:00 Common Ground Youth Ministry Paul Wright 219 S Swenson 325-773-3604 Faith Lutheran Church Sagerton, Texas 940-200-0723 AM Worship: 10:30 Family Church of Christ 1505 E. Wells St 325-773-5250 Worship: 9:45 a.m.

1st Assembly 1214 Compton Pastor John Shepard Worship: Saturday @ 6:00PM (325)267-0955

First Baptist Church John Ward 214 N Swenson 325-773-2781 AM Worship: 11:00 House of God Pastor Bobby Acosta 802 Ferguson St Sundays 11:00 am Lueders First Baptist Church Roscoe McCoy 228-4622 AM Worship: 11:00 MacKenzie Trail Cowboy Church AM worship 11:00 Heart of God Church 114 E Campbell Joanne Ochoa AM Worship 10:30 Nugent Baptist Church Craig Thames 228-4457 Worship: 11:00

Nugent Church of Christ Nugent, Texas Wayne Kitchens, Preacher Sun. 10 Bible Classes 11 Morning Assembly Orient Street Church of Christ Wes Horn 510 S Orient 773-3419 Worship: 10:30 Paint Creek Baptist Church Pastor Tony Grand 940-864-3358 AM Worship: 11:00

WANT TO SPONSOR THE CHURCH PAGE? Call 325-773-5550

St Ann’s Catholic Church 1001 S Swenson 325-773-2659 AM Mass: 11:00 St. John’s United Methodist Church Pastor John Erwin 201 S Ferguson 325-773-2561 AM Worship: 10:50 Solomon Temple Baptist Church Rev. Donnie Massey 315 N. Haskell St. 325-773-2213 AM Worship 9:30

Temple Baptist Church Jesse Morton 309 E Campbell 325-773-2550 AM Service: 11:00 Trinity Church Dr. Robert Wingrove 220 E. McHarg

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

AUGUST 23, 2019

The Jones Counting Processing Center in Anson will be opening soon!

Now Hiring for all positions including: Detention Officers – $20.49 per hour

Cooks, Maintenance Techs, and CDL- B Drivers Registered Nurses, Dentist, Mental Health Professionals

Full benefits packages available Apply online at www.mtcjobs.com Or Call

(801) 693-2600 for more information

Management & Training Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Everyone Loses in the Blame Game It seems like a terrible occurrence these days as every time we turn on the television or browse the internet there is another news story of a shooting.

It is horrifying to see that these trends are continuing, but all that is really being done about it is a group trying to assign blame to something else. We see this in politics all of the time, speTHOUGHTS FROM cifically in the push for stricter gun laws, as politicians blame UNDER THE CAP the ease of getting guns as the problem and nothing else. This Will McClure eventually trickles down to the citizens that just continue to assign the blame instead of doing something about it. Now, I am not here to be pro- or anti-gun with regards to this and while I do have my opinions on the matter, this is not the main focus of my thoughts this week. Instead, I think I can speak for a lot of you out there who are just sick and tired of the tragedies and the subsequent “blame game” where things are blamed for the actions of human beings. Instead of others taking responsibility in failing to see the signs or try to help these individuals committing these deeds, the focus is redirected to another entity entirely and we end up essentially back at square one when it comes to actually trying to do something about these incidents.

A more recent example of this notion of blaming is actually not really that new as it has been a focus for politicians in the past and that is the blaming of violent video games for the actions of those violent individuals. Once again, while I am not saying that these games have had an effect, I’m also saying that they are the wrong focus here. Other than guns themselves, violent media has gotten the figurative finger point when it comes to violent actions with many saying that kids experiencing the media will eventually copy it. I think we can all agree that children are impressionable and they model people and things that they see. However, when they are exposed to these items and do not have proper context or supervision, then I can see where this blaming may be coming from. On the other hand, I think I can also speak for those that are sick of the blaming who say that they have been exposed to violent media as children and turned out just fine. This is mainly because they had adults, or at least older individuals, help them understand that while they can have fun with the media itself, the actions are still deplorable in real life. I can say that I have been exposed to this kind of media all of my life, even watching horror movies at home when I was five and playing the original Grand Theft Auto on the first Playstation before I was even a teenager. In my opinion, the reason that these items did not have as big of an impression on me is that my parents were there to step in and model good behavior and teach me that those violent acts are wrong. Media is fiction, but it should never go to reality.

My final thoughts about this idea this week goes to my previous statement: my parents taught me right from wrong. If I did something wrong growing up, my parents didn’t run to blame some kind of media or someone else for what I did. Instead, I was held responsible for my actions and would see the items taken away or censored in some way. Children look to parents or guardians to learn right from wrong and parents have simple things like media ratings and sites like CommonSense.org to know what is and isn’t right for their kids. Instead of assigning blame, more individuals need to take responsibility to ensure future acts from happening. After all, it is very easy to start playing the blame game, but in the end there are, and will never be, no winners in the end.

Until next time, dear reader, my cap’s off to you!

Western Union’s Bicycle Delivery Boys When Bill Cole of Midland was in high school in Abilene, he delivered telegrams for Western Union.

“They wouldn’t hire anybody under 16,” says Bill, “so when I turned 16 I knew Western Union was hiring messenger boys so I went to work. I’d start about 4 o’clock, soon as I got out of school and work until about 7. On every shift they’d have maybe 3 or 4 messengers. We’d cover the whole town on our bicycles delivering telegrams. Course Abilene wasn’t as big as it is now.”

The telegram was a major means of communication during the 40’s and 50’s because not everybody had a telephone.

“They’d give us several telegrams to deliver and give us sort of a route to take. Usually they’d give each messenger 10 to 12 telegrams at a time.

When we’d deliver those,

we’d come back and get some more.”

The delivery boys didn’t have any special uniforms.

“We had a little pin that said Western Union on it and we’d pin it on our shirt.”

The telegrams came into the Western Union office by Teletype. They’d come in on narrow strips of paper that were then pasted onto square sheets of yellow paper that had the words Western Union at the top. Then the manager would put the message in an envelope.

“We’d deliver it to where it was addressed.

When they came to the door I’d have them sign a form that said they received it. Delivery boys never saw what was writ-

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ten on the telegrams.”

Lots of businesses used telegrams.

“Hotels and motels would get reservations by telegram. Floral shops got lots of their orders by telegrams.

Businesses used Western Union to order supplies. Some had a way of contact Western Union that they had a telegram to pick up. They called them night letters. And of course we had things like singing telegrams every once in a while. Sometimes companies would contract with Western

Thursday Sausage & Potatoes, Butterbeans, Cucumber & Tomato, Cornbread, Jell-O Friday Chili Cheese Dog, French Fries, Pea Salad, Banana

Union to put out samples of their products.

I remember one time there was a contract with the people who make TUMS and the delivery boys would stand on street corners and hand out sample packages of TUMS.” I asked Bill about those singing telegrams.

“If someone wanted to wish a relative or friend a happy birthday they’d contact Western Union and ask that one of the delivery boys go to the address and sing Happy Birthday. People that got them really enjoyed them.”

I asked Bill if he ever got a tip for delivering a singing telegram.

“I don’t remember any. I wasn’t a very good singer.”

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Something I get a lot of questions about this time of year, or really all through the spring and summer, is whether or not trees can be planted during this season. Since I spend so much time talking and writing about what a great time of year fall and winter are for planting, versus summer, that’s a fair question. The short answer to whether or not you can plant at this time of year is yes.

Since it’s not fall or winter right now, and the reasons for planting then don’t apply at the moment, I’ll just go over that briefly, to explain why I urge planting then in the colder seasons so strongly and then move on.

The very best time to plant trees is when doing so causes the plant the least amount of stress. Generally, in the fall and winter most trees, even evergreens, aren’t doing a lot and the shock of being moved and/or planted causes them a lot less trouble. This of course translates into better survival rates and less after-care for tree owners, thus being the basic reasons for pushing fall/ winter on potential new tree owners. There’s more to it than that, but as I said, briefly and then move on.

As far as planting trees in the summer goes, yes, if this is the time of year it occurs to you, and/or you’ve just lost a tree (way too much of that going on lately), and need to replace it, then by all means, select one and get it in the ground.

Because most people are more active in their landscapes in the spring and summer than during the winter, best time to plant or not, the large majority of the planting happens during warmer weather. Another factor is that there are indeed a lot of plants, other than trees, which do need to be installed in the spring or summer, and

this results in a lot of trees going in at the same time, while the rest of the work is being done. It may be a good idea to plant some trees in the middle of January, but as far as annual summer color, many perennials, and turf goes, a January planting isn’t going to work out so well. Since not everybody has the inclination to pay for planting two different sets of things, at two different times, when doing it all at once is going to be more cost effective, a lot of trees tend to go in when the grass and other plants get installed.

In fact, there’s a lot more to it than even the convenience of putting in trees with everything else. For instance, while the summer may not be the most premium time to plant trees, as far as the casual consumer, who has to buy plants at a nursery goes, even if they would rather put in trees during the winter, good luck finding just the ones they want. Because the majority of planting is done in the summer, that’s when growers and nurseries make the most plants available. For the most part, this has nothing to do with when the best planting time is, but is a direct response to market forces. If people were suddenly to switch to planting most of their trees during the winter, and doing very little of it during the summer, nurseries would respond to that by making trees easily (in fact they would be climbing all over each other competing for the business) available in the fall/winter. When people like myself talk about winter planting, we’re referring to larger plants and people who order trees rather than make off the cuff, spur of the moment, purchases.

Something else that’s a little different this year is that when

WEST TEXAS TREES AND LANDSCAPES

By Bruce Kreitler and the KWKC Green Team people talk to me about planting large trees, such as two hundred gallon, or eight inch trunk diameter, I’m encouraging them to go ahead, even though it’s approaching the hottest time of year. Normally I would gauge whether or not a particular client was expecting the extra care a tree like that would need going in at this time of year and make my recommendation, either full steam ahead or wait for winter, accordingly. The difference is that unlike in the past there’s no guarantee that those big trees are going to be available a few months from now when the weather is more suited to placing those big babies in the ground. Just as an example, the last load of big trees I brought in came from a nursery two hundred and fifty miles away, and also had the additional cost of being trucked that distance attached to them. Not only that, but of two different large variety/sizes that I purchased, I got the last ones they had. That doesn’t speak well to my chances of being able to find two comparable trees next winter, or even next week for that matter.

AUGUST 23, 2019 9

10

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AUGUST 23, 2019

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

EXAMPLE A NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT RENEWAL

and material, or significant public comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.

PERMIT NUMBER 44541

After the technical review is complete the executive director will consider the comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material, or significant public comments. If only comments are received, the response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the application, will then be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments or who is on the mailing list for this application, unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing.

EXAMPLE A

address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 15 days following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely AIR PERMIT RENEWAL filed, the Executive Director will forward the application

APPLICATION Ericksdahl Cooperative Gin Company of Avoca, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 44541, which would authorize continued operation of a Cotton Gin located at 11958 County Road 241, Avoca, Jones County, Texas 79503.

This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/ assets/public/hb610/index.html?lat=32.915833&lng=99.686111&zoom=13&type=r. The existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the following air contaminants: carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.

PERMIT NUMBER 44541

and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.

OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING APPLICATION Ericksdahl Cooperative Gin Company of Avoca, has applied to the Texas Commission on You may request a contested case hearing. The applicant Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Number 44541, which would authorize or the executive director may alsoPermit request that the application be directly referred to a contested case continued operation of a Cotton Ginhearing located at 11958 County Road 241, Avoca, Jones County, Texas after technical review of the application. A contested casesite hearing a legal proceeding similarlocation is provided as a public 79503. This link to an electronic map of the orisfacility's general to a civil trial in state district court. Unless a written courtesy and not part of the application orfornotice.

For refer to application. request a contested case exact hearing islocation, filed within 15 days from this notice, the executive director may act http://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/hb610/index.html?lat=32.915833&lng=on the application. If no hearing request is received This99.686111&zoom=13&type=r. application was submitted to the TCEQ on August within this 15 day period, no further opportunity for The existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the 2, 2019. The application will be available for viewing and hearing will be provided. According to the Texas Clean following contaminants: carbon monoxide, nitrogen organic copying at the TCEQair central office, TCEQ Abilene regional Air Act § 382.056(o) a contestedoxides, case hearing may only compounds, particulate matter office,including and the Jones particulate County Courthouse, 1100 12th be granted if applicant’s compliance history is in2.5 the microns MAILING In addition to submitting public matter with diameters ofthe10 microns or less and orLIST less and sulfur Street, Anson, Jones County, Texas beginning the first day lowest classification under applicable compliance history comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, requirements and if the hearing request is based on this application by sending a request to the Office of the dioxide. if any exists, is available for public review in the Abilene regional office of the TCEQ.

disputed issues of fact that are relevant and material to the Commission’s decision on the application. Further, the Commission may only grant a hearing on those issues submitted during the public comment period and not withdrawn.

Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.

group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical

that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record.

For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1 800 687 4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.

This application was submitted to the TCEQ on August 2, 2019. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Abilene regional office, andCONTACTS the Jones AGENCY AND County INFORMATION Public comments and requests must be submitted either Courthouse, 1100 12th Street, Anson, Jones County, Texas beginning first day of publication of this A person who may be affected by emissions of air the electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, from the is entitled to request or in writing Texas Commission on Environmental notice. The facility’s compliance file,contaminants if any exists, isfacility available for publica review in theto the Abilene regional hearing. If requesting a contested case hearing, you Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box office of the TCEQ. must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware

The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting action includes the incorporation of changes in emission factors related to this permit. The reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.

The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting action includes the incorporation of changes in emission factors related to this permit. The reasons for any changes or PUBLIC COMMENT You may submit public comments, or a request for a to contested case hearing to are included in the renewed permit, may include the enhancement of incorporations, the extent they the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The Further information may also be obtained from control at the plant aor enforceability of the permit. The TCEQ may actCooperative on thisGinapplication TCEQoperational will consider all public comments in developing Ericksdahl Company of Avoca, 11958 final decision on the application.

The deadline to submit County Road 241, Avoca, case Texas 79503-2248 or by calling without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested hearing public comments is 15 days after newspaper notice is Mr. J. Kelley Green PE, Texas Cotton Ginners’ Association, published.

After the deadline for public Director of Technical Services at (512) 615-1102. if certain criteria are comments, met. the executive director will prepare a response to all relevant

Notice Issuance Date: August 5, 2019

Classifieds HELP WANTED Hanson Paint & Body Shop in Haskell, Texas is taking applications for the position of auto body paint and repairman. Please apply at 207 S. 1st Street, Haskell, Texas.

Sagebrush Living Center is accepting applications for a weekend janitor, Direct Support Staff, laundry worker (4 on and 2 off ), and cook’s helper (1 pm to 6:15 pm, 4 on and 2 off ). Please contact Kathy Phillips, Mario Cedillo or Doug Stanley Facility Director.

Phone # 325-773-2791.

Throckmorton County Memorial Hospital is now accepting applications for a full time night shift RN and PRN LVNs. Please call Kinsi Voss at 940-849-2151/940-256-0430 for more details. Resumes may also be emailed to vossk@ windstream.net

Call Us for your Classified Advertising Needs!

325-773-5550

A Subscription Makes A Great Gift!

325-773-5550

AUGUST 23, 2019 11

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

HELP WANTED Vacancy Announcement Hamlin Independent School District An Equal Opportunity Employer August 7, 2019 Position Title: General Maintenance Technician

Location: Hamlin Collegiate ISD Facilities Salary: Negotiable Length of work schedule: 12 months Position Requirements: High School diploma or equivalent. *Ability to communicate effectively. *Ability to read and understand instructions for cleaning, maintenance, and safety procedures *Ability to operate cleaning equipment and lift heavy equipment. *Knowledge of basic construction, electrical, plumbing, vehicle/bus maintenance and repair procedures. *Ability to operate hand and power tools. *Ability to work independently. *Follow routine cleaning and maintenance procedures to maintain a high standard of safety, cleanliness, and efficiency of building operations and grounds.

Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), with Passenger and School Bus endorsements a plus.

Application Procedures: Go to district website: www.hamlin. esc14.net to download application, or Pick up application at: Hamlin Collegiate ISD Administration Building, 450 SW Ave F, Hamlin TX 79520, 325-576-2722 Application Deadline: Until filled * Applicants for all positions are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, veteran or military status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

The district Title IX Coordinator is: Brock Cartwright, Superintendent.

1105 New Hope Road 2/2 brick Great Location!...........Reduced!.....$97,000 1215 Wesleyan Nice 3/2 w fireplace and hot tub room!..................$92,500 716 E Oliver 4 bedroom/ 2 baths quiet area!...........................................$69,900 512 Dodson Drive, Great Buy 3/2.........................................................$49,900 712 E Vanderbilt 1910 2 story Victorian family home.......Reduced $129,900 1502 Compton Great 3/2/2 Ranch Home on 1.6± AC!............IN CONTRACT 7725 US Hwy 277 Hawley A-frame on almost half an acre!................$68,000 2325 Ave Q Anson 4/3 Brick home w/ Metal Shop on 6± Acres.......$330,000 1222 Ave L Anson Farmhouse style, 2/2, fenced bk yard...........................SOLD 715 Ave. J Anson UPDATED 3/2 Brick, Sprinkler System......................SOLD 1502 Ave K Anson 1885 sq. ft. separate apartment & metal shop......$184,900 1222 23rd St ANSON 4/2, 2400 sq ft, manufactured home on 1 acre..$167,000 1720 Ave I Anson. Charming 2/1 cottage style home .............IN CONTRACT 519 Commercial Ave, Anson 3/1 Rock home w shop..... Reduced! $51,000 COMMERCIAL 1611 N Swenson Historic Cliff House Restaurant...................IN CONTRACT 1631 17th St, Anson 4,000 sq. ft, restaurant equip. included....IN CONTRACT 901 Commercial ANSON- 12,600 Sq. Ft. parking lot, HWY Front...$175,000

FARM & RANCH

DICKENS COUNTY

1,450± AC Fantastic Hunting, Shinnery, Large Stock Tank

FISHER COUNTY

480 ± AC SE of Roby Tank, Well & Rural Water!

170± AC SE of Rotan Pasture w/ Shinnery, Paved rd frontage, well & rural water.

953± AC IN CONTRACT 130± Ac South of Sylvester on FM 1085 Nice small tract in good area!

CALLAHAN COUNTY

1,015± AC Great Sock Farm or Hay farm IN CONTRACT

HASKELL COUNTY

271± AC dryland farm w/ Pasture NE of Haskell NEW 227± ac N of Rule Cultivated w.

Pasture NEW 627 ± AC - Mule Creek ranch- live water, cabin, great hunting 202± AC - Box Springs Ranch - Improved Grass, Stock Tank SOLD 160± AC – The Kittley Irrigated Farm Northwest of Rule!

JONES COUNTY

20± AC OAK TREES w/ Electric and Rural Water near Ft. Phantom 220± AC California Creek Cultivation w/ HWY 6 frontage & good fence!

230± AC Premier River Property w/ cabin N of Ft. Phantom 1,170± AC Cattle place Pasture, pens, good fence HWY 180 & FM 600 frontage 663± AC Great combo w/ fence, pens, water well and tank N of Anson 389± AC Cultivation, Rural water & Electric N of Merkle 80± AC Nice Horse Place w/ 4 Bed home near Hamlin lots of Improvements!

2 Tracts of 62.14 acres each, CR 440, tanks, well, fencing, hunting.

NEW 782± AC - Mostly cultivated farm.

Outside of Neinda 512± AC - on Top of Flat Top - CRP, 2 Water Wells and Beautiful Views!

202± AC – 202 Ranch- great hunting West of Stamford 247± AC Stock Farm, Culti and pasture!

160± AC Cultivation south of Avoca 139± AC- Farrington Cotton Farm Prime Cultivation 50± AC Cultivated farm great hunting!

230± AC Ft. Phantom River Ranch, Excellent Hunting!

KENT COUNTY

922± AC-Panther Canyon Ranch-Native pasture w/ food plots, springs on Panther Canyon and Croton Creek on Boundary!

521± AC – The Grove- Shinnery & Mesquite Combination, SOLD

SCURRY COUNTY

1,421± AC - Impossible Canyon Ranch Deep Canyons & Fantastic Hunting!

SHACKELFORD COUNTY

440± AC Cultivation & Pasture w/ Spring, Rural water & 3 tanks!

STEPHENS COUNTY

155± AC Great Hunting, Cabin with 2 Earth Tanks!

85± AC w/ house

STONEWALL COUNTY

5,950± AC- Seven Diamond L Canyon Ranch two creeks and river 2,082± -AC- Double View Ranch- Spectacular views, River & Cabin!

1,322± AC - Maddie Ola Ranch - Big Water, Extremely Diverse, & Great Hunting!

800± AC - White Ghost River Ranch - Salt Fork of the Brazos! Views of the River Canyon!

668± AC - MZ East Pasture Ranch - Ready to Hunt, Spectacular Views!

320± AC – River Frontage w/ Beautiful 2 story home and additional acreage for lease!

387± AC - Great Hunting w/ Cabin Set Up and Ready to Hunt!

249± AC River Bluff Ranch mile of SFB River, gorgeous bluffs, shinnery, elevations, very diverse!

130± AC- Youngers 130 Good Cultivation and great Hunting!

332± AC – Canyon West Ranch Great Views!

Water, Electric & Secluded!

TAYLOR COUNTY

50± AC White Mines Road-Wylie ISD-No Restrictions! SOLD 5± Acres Off of HWY 351 No Restrictions List Price $40,000 Taylor Ridge Estates- 20-80 Acre rural tracts Call for info.

707 Ranch 10-12± acre rural tracts Call for Info. SOLD 20± Acres White Mines Road Creek, Hunting, No Restrictions List Price $140,000

THROCKMORTON COUNTY

460± AC High fenced, turn-key hunting ranch 160± AC Cultivation & Pasture w/ 3 BD Home W of Woodson

Statement on 2018-2019 Accountability On August 15, 2019, TEA released the 20182019 Accountability Ratings for Stamford ISD. As a district, Stamford ISD received an overall rating of a B. Last year, Stamford ISD received an overall B rating as well. For the first time, the 2018-2019 TEA Accountability Ratings will include letter grades for each campus. Stamford High School received an overall rating of an A, Stamford Middle School received an overall rating of an F and Oliver Elementary received an overall rating of a D. In addition, Stamford High School earned three Distinction Designations: Academic Achievement in English Language Arts/Reading, Top 25 Percent in Comparative Academic Growth and Top 25 Percent in Comparative Closing the Gaps. Oliver Elementary received a Distinction Designation for Academic Achievement in Science.

We understand that we have some areas of strength and some areas that need additional attention. As a team, we have taken a proactive approach by examining data early this summer, and then began scheduling professional development opportunities targeting specific areas. Whether

we scored an A, B, D or F, we will look to continuously improve what we do in every area because we are either moving forward in each area or we are moving backward. Areas of strength can easily become areas of concern if we do not take this approach. It is important to understand that the TEA ratings do not tell the whole story about our district and are not the only measures of student achievement or of the incredible amount of investment our staff members have in our students. Stamford ISD has been, and will continue to be, an outstanding district where excellence is the standard and the mission is to provide an environment that is conducive to learning so that each child can become productive members of society.

We are blessed with a community that supports this school, believes in our staff and trusts us with our most valuable resource – our children.

Sincerely, Will Brewer Superintendent Stamford ISD

12 AUGUST 23, 2019

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CITY: Continued From Page 1 He stated he was speaking for himself as one of those three employees. He asked why he didn’t receive a raise in pay. Mayor Decker stated raises are not based on merit/performance at this time. He stated this year was focused on the employees having a livable wage and “those were in need of adjustment while the top level administrators were probably in line within salaries across the area and otherwise.” Huston stated that the Council was saying that he “is at the cap of what I make.” Roberson said, “I think that’s probably pretty close.” Huston stated he didn’t see that in writing twelve and a half years ago, when he was hired and that it should have been. Mayor Decker said, “The City Council evaluates the raises every year and I know there were some years before I was on the Council where nobody got raises due to financial reasons or allocating money otherwise.”

Huston argued that normally everyone gets a raise or no one gets a raise.

Wingrove stated that there

was no special meeting, as Huston alleged, but there was a “consensus of the Council that we only have so many dollars to work with and there comes a point when you just can’t keep dipping into the pot that we come up with larger and larger salaries and probably, at this time, you are probably one of the highest paid in this area for a city this size.”

Mayor Decker stated he asked City Manager Plumlee for a budget draft giving employees a “fifty cent per hour raise for all employees with the exception of two waste water employees who had licensing increases” and “to leave the top three unchanged.” He presented this proposal to the Council and they seemed “on board” with it. He stated that “it’s not a personal thing, it’s just looking at the City budget and looking at budgets across the board in the area.”

Huston asked specifically if there will be a cap on other City employees.

The discussion included the need to look at inflation, the cost of living

and what is the best for the City. Huston told the Council they “saved $3,100, basically slapping three employees in the face.” Mayor Decker stated the amount wasn’t $3,100, but including FICA and other items.

He stated the decision was made deliberately, and they didn’t flippantly pick three random employees. “It was a decision that those three salaries are exceedingly well paid relative to their peers within the area and that those probably need not to be changed this year.” He stated Huston’s opinion was respected and valued.

Next, City Manager Plumlee stated the Tax Rate was to remain the same, .981333. He stated the Tax Rate has not been raised in the past two years. There will be a Public Hearing on the Proposed Tax Rate at the next Council Meeting, 5:15pm, on Tuesday, September 3, 2019, due to Labor Day being on the regularly scheduled Monday meeting. The second Public Hearing will be on Friday, September 6, 2019 at 1:30pm, also on the second floor of City Hall. At the

regular meeting on Monday, September 16, 2019, they will adopt the Tax Rate. The dates were approved and it was approved to have the Tax Rate unchanged at .981333 per $100 valuation.

The next item was the Budget Workshop. EMS subsidy was discussed to include having the other entities contribute more. Plumlee and Wingrove are also EMS Board Members. Airport repairs and improvements were discussed.

The City Manager reported the Convenience Stations were being worked on and there would be short term, interim, locations for tree limbs. Representative Stan Lambert will have a Town Hall Meeting on Monday, August 26, 2019, 5:306:30pm at the Anson Public Library. He went over water leaks being addressed at Avoca.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Due to Labor Day falling on the next regular scheduled Council meeting, the next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at 5:15pm on the second floor of Stamford City Hall. These meetings are open to the public.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

LETTER TO THE EDITOR A Letter of Thanks to the Firefighters!

My family and I moved back to this area in the mid-1990s because we had begun to miss the culture that is present here. While we had always known it existed, after you’ve lived here for a while you sometimes take it for granted.

This past Wednesday afternoon, August 14th, we were reminded of the character and heart that is prevalent in the people of Central and West Texas that makes this part of the world so very special. A lightning strike on Tuesday night caused a tree to smolder which resulted in an ember flaking off onto the grass nearby sometime during the morning on Wednesday. Within a few hours that ember had grown into a large fire. Over the next couple of hours, the best in humanity was demonstrated on our family ranch. Members of the oil company on our lease showed up not only to make sure their oil equipment was secure but to also begin wetting down one of our family houses and its surrounding area. They also directed the early fire departments who began showing up shortly after our call to 911. One of the deputies of the Jones County Sheriff’s Department was among the early arrivals and was helping water down the family house and surrounding lawn as well.

During the afternoon, Volunteer Fire Departments from Lueders, Anson, Hawley, Albany, and Hamby as well as the Texas Forestry Service arrived. About 30 firefighting vehicles showed up including fire trucks, water tankers, UTV’s to scout the fire line, dozers, maintainers including one from a neighboring rancher, and 4 air tankers. Around 60 firefighters came to help including close friends and neighbors, but mostly people that didn’t even know us all of whom chose to give up their afternoon and evening to protect our property.

It represents the amazing character in the people who live here, and we are humbled to be the beneficiaries of this wonderful group of community servants.

To all of you, please accept our most heartfelt appreciation.

Thank you!

On behalf of the members of the Harvey Ranch and the Macgregor family, Mark and Karen Viertel