November 9, 2018 - Stamford American

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2018 THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 10, ISSUE 25 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 97, ISSUE 31 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 113, ISSUE 32

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Capital Murder Trial Comes to an End

BY KAY SPEARS

The first capital murder case seen in Jones County, Texas in 29 years has come to an end. The trial covered 35 days, 18 of those involved the jury. On Monday, November 5, 2018, the defense and prosecution teams gave their final arguments before the jury was sent out to deliberate the life or death sentence of Dillion Gage Compton, 24.

Extra chairs were brought into the packed courtroom.

Officers and officials from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and the Office of the Investigator General (OIG) were in attendance as well as correctional officers from the TDCJ Robertson Unit, Abilene, Jones County, TX, and law enforcement officers from Jones and Taylor Counties. The family of the victim, Marianne Johnson, filled their reserved benches.

The prosecution spoke first, then the defense, and then the prosecution was given a final chance to address the jury. The prosecution team kept to the facts and evidence of the case that pointed to Compton’s future danger if he were given life without the possibility of parole.

SEE TRIAL, PG 15

News media gather at Jones County courthouse for death penalty verdict.

Numerous voters in Stamford, including 97 year-old Bland Harrison, turned out for the mid-term elections on Tuesday, November 6.

City Council Works to Improve Water Treatment Plant

BY KAY SPEARS On Monday, November 5, 2018 Mayor James Decker opened the regular meeting of the Stamford City Council. All present stood while Jimmy Doan gave the invocation before participating in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Also in attendance were City Mgr. Alan Plumlee, City Atty. Raymond Hollabaugh, City Secretary Kim Bryant, CFO Karen Lou Graham, Melinda Smith, Ken Roberson, Paul Wright, and Police Chief Darwin Huston.

There were no Citizen’s Comments at this time

and the minutes from the October 15, 2018 Regular Council Meeting were approved.

Next on the agenda was to discuss/take action on the Housing Authority Board Member appointments. The terms of Harold Foster, Cary Davis and

Shirley Moore expire on December 31, 2018. The Council approved re-appointing these individuals from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020 and thank them for their willingness to serve.

SEE CITY, PG 7

City Council gets update on water treatment plans by Coldon Rich, EHT Co.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST Callie Metler-Smith | Publisher callie@americannewspapers.net Kay Spears | Editor kay@americannewspapers.net Callie Metler-Smith | Ad Manager ads@americannewspapers.net Gayle Lovvorn | Office Manager office@americannewspapers.net P.O. Box 870 102 S. Swenson Stamford TX 79553 325-773-5550 FAX: 325-773-5551 office@americannewspapers.net 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.

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The weather is provided for you

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

MARK THE DATE...

FLU SHOTS: Shots are now available at Stamford Family Health Center, 1601 Columbia St., for only $25. Open Monday – Thursday 7am – 6pm & on Fridays 8am – 5pm.

CODE CLUB: Stamford Carnegie Library CODE CLUB every Tuesday, 4:00-5:00 pm.

Grades 6-12 welcome to attend.

DONTATE: 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 checks made out to Stamford American, P O BOX 870, Stamford, TX and note on the check it is for Denise Dennis.

RENT: The TCR Old Timer’s Association rents the Bunkhouse and Roundup buildings. The new manager is Ann Heathington, and she can be reached at 325-7738057. Please leave a message and she will return your call.

(You will be reaching a business called From Scratch.)

The price for the Bunkhouse is $50 deposit and $250 for a one day rental. The price for the Roundup is $150 deposit and $325 for a one day rental.

NOV 13TH

SILVER SOCIAL: The Cowboy Country Museum would like to invite anyone who would like to join us for a Silver Social, Tuesday, November 13th, from 3:00-4:30. This is a time set aside for visiting and being pampered. We will have a short presentation celebrating Veterans’ Day. We

also want to invite any and all veterans to attend as well.

Refreshments will be served.

If you have any questions, call us at 773-2500.

FAMILY NIGHT: The Cowboy Country Museum would like to invite everyone to join us for Family Night, Tuesday, November 13th, from 5:30-6:30. This month’s theme is The Importance of Veterans’ Day. We will have a presentation to learn about Veterans’ Day, then several activities, including dressing up in uniform. We also want to invite any and all veterans to attend as well.

As always it is free of charge.

(Please note, that all children must be accompanied by an adult.) If you have any questions, call us at 7732500.

JAN 14TH

GENEALOGY MEETING: The Cowboy Country Museum will be hosting a Genealogy Society meeting on Monday, January 14, 2019 at 5pm.

If you are interested in learning more about your family genealogy and the resources that are available at the Museum for research, please plan to attend. All ages are welcome and it is free of charge. If you have any questions, call us at 7732500.

State Representive Stan Lambert and State Senator Charles Perry co-hosted a town hall meeting in Anson on Thursday, November 1st. Perry discussed how his focus on the next session will be School Security, Flood Funding, Infrastructure Funding, and Health Care. Lambert also discussed his time on the Sunset Commission and how happy he was with the decision to keep Rural DPS offices open.

BIRTHDAYS NOV 12 - Connie Stanley, Sasha Raines NOV 14 - Ralph Gabriel NOV 15 - Jerry Pingle, Stacey Bennett NOV 17 - Eddie Jones, Kay Spraberry Know someone who is having a birthday? Please remember to call us at 325-773-5550 and let us know!

Community

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

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Halloween in Stamford

Paint Creek G/T Program Nominations Paint Creek ISD offers a Gifted and Talented (G/T) Program in addition to regular education programming for grades K – 12. The G/T Program is designed to meet the needs of students demonstrating exceptional skills in academic and creative areas.

Anyone wishing to nominate a child believed to be an intellectually or creatively gifted learner is encouraged to come by the office at Paint Creek School between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and pick up the necessary forms. The office is open from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Those students nominated will go through a screening procedure that requires special testing. At the time of nomination, parents will be requested to grant permission for this test.

Nomination period for Paint Creek ISD is November 2-16. All completed nomination forms are due back in the Paint Creek School office by Friday, November 16, 2018.

For further assistance, contact Valiene Bullinger during school hours at 940-864-2868.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

HELLO FROM COWBOY COUNTRY

By Jewellee Kuenstler

This week I was asked to bring some items to Mrs. West’s American History Class at the High School.

They have begun studying World War I, so I began to see what we had to offer at the Museum. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of items we had. I wanted to bring World War I “home” for the students, to let them see items that belonged to boys from our area. I had a wonderful time discussing these items with the students, and letting them touch and feel these pieces of history to get an idea of a soldier’s life in 1918.

Our best items came from the family of Claude F. Norman, a World War I vet from Rule, Texas. According to the family stories, Norman played the fiddle.

After hearing this, the Army “acquired” a fiddle and he would play for the troops in the trenches during down time. As part of the donation from the family, there was his uniform jacket, a small Bible he carried with him through his time in France, a trench lighter, postcards of places in France, a letter from a friend, a postcard to his mother, and his dog tags.

The family also donated his World War I gas mask and helmet. The students loved to look at and touch these items. They were all surprised at how heavy the gas mask and container were and how little the helmet protected a soldier’s head.

Next, we examined a

1919 SMS Ranch Catalog.

In this book, Frank R. Hastings, manager of the SMS Ranches, listed all the cowboys that either volunteered or were drafted during the war. The list was pretty extensive for our small area. Hastings also included a photo of one cowboy that was killed in action in France and never got to come home. Hastings had a great respect for the cowboys and knew them to be very tough, fearless, and honor bound. He was surprised to find that the cowboys that were drafted were really terrified to go.

Upon questioning one “sixfoot two cowpuncher” the reason finally became clear.

The boys that were being drafted were not given a chance to be in the cavalry, but were put in the infantry. These cowboys felt at a distinct disadvantage to be going to a foreign place, to fight people they didn’t know, without a horse underneath them.

We read several articles from the Stamford Leader, The Hamlin Herald, and The Haskell Free Press, from 1918. These articles were about boys that had perished in the war either from battle or illness. One young man in particular stood out. The Stamford Leader ran an article about the death of Vernon D. Hart, a local boy from Stamford. The article detailed the townspeople’s reaction to the news of his death, grown men put their head in their hands and cried,

women were weeping on the square, but the most poignant quote from the article read, “But, there was a more touching scene than all this. Down at the home of his mother, on East Oliver Street there was a grief that knows no bounds.

There was the mother, Mrs. Julia C. Hart, who fainted away when the sad telegram came from Washington, after being received from overseas.” The article ended with the last letter that Hart had sent home before he died.

Our next Family Night will be on Tuesday, November 13th, from 5:30-6:30. This month’s theme is The Importance of Veterans’ Day. We will have a presentation to learn about Veterans’ Day, then several activities for the children, including dressing up in uniform. As always it is free of charge. Please note, that all children must be accompanied by an adult.

If you are a veteran, please join us for this Family Night and allow us to honor you. Your sacrifice and service allow us the freedoms we enjoy on a

daily basis. And the kids need to see you, they need to understand how many people in our community have served in our Armed Forces.

We will also be hosting a Veteran’s Day Silver Social at 3pm on Tuesday, November 13th. Please come see us for refreshments, coffee, cocoa, and a good visit.

Everyone is welcome!

Santa’s Head Elf has been in touch with me this week. As of right now, Santa is planning to visit the Museum on Saturday, December 1st from 2-4pm.

However, he made it clear that since he is an avid Bulldog fan, if we are still in the playoffs he would have to reschedule so he could watch the game! So, mark your calendars for December 1st. Along with Santa, we will also have ornament making activities at the museum to decorate our Museum Christmas tree. I believe there will also be events happening on the square as well. Come join in on the fun! (We’ll keep you updated if the date changes for any reason. GO BULLDOGS!)

If you are interested in genealogy, or learning more about your family’s history, or you just want to know what resources the Museum has to offer, then plan to attend a Genealogy Society meeting on Monday, January 14, 2019, at 5pm.

This will be a come and go event, so if you do not get off work until 5, stop by when you can.

One final note, I’m going to get a little political on you. (No, I’m not going to bash any government officials, sorry!) But, we do need your help. A bill is going before Congress that will allow more funds to be given to Museums and Libraries around the nation, especially small museums and libraries. Please contact your congressmen and ask them to cosponsor the Museum and Library Science Act of 2018. It is super easy, just go to www.congressweb.com/AAM/ and put in your zip code and it automatically generates an email to your congressmen saying that you want this bill to be passed. It took me less than 5 minutes.

Deadline is November 13th.

Please take the time to let them know how much important the museum and library are to you.

So many exciting things are yet to come! It makes coming to work a joy every day! If you have never visited the museum, please take time to stop by. I’m here Tuesday thru Friday from 12:30 to 5:30.

As always, we love for you to stop by, either to volunteer, or just to visit.

If you have visitors from out of town, bring them by!

Our email is cowboycountrymuseum@yahoo.com or you can call us at 325/7732500.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

ESSAYS FROM WEST OF 98 James M. Decker

Vacant Buildings and Vacant People, A Year Later [One year ago this week, I started this essay series. I was inspired by a national feature on local football hero James Washington, then an AllAmerican at Oklahoma State, now a rookie second round NFL draft pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers. That national author wrote of Stamford’s vacant buildings but also its wonderful people. One year later, Stamford still has vacant buildings. Some buildings are recently vacant. Some previously vacant buildings are now occupied. We have other new construction happening. But the community’s greatest asset remains its people. If you read this essay back in November 2017, I hope you re-read it and enjoy it again. If this essay is new to you, I hope it inspires and encourages you.]

Recently, I read a wonderful and well-reported feature published at Bleacher Report on Stamford’s own national football star James Washington, and I was struck by several of the undertones. As a community leader and business owner, I cringed a bit reading of vacant buildings and closed businesses. But then, I took a step back and considered it some more.

This was not an author belittling a community or rural America at large. Nor was it, like some past stories, our own community members describing our town as “dying.” Rather, a reporter who had never been to Stamford, Texas wrote objectively about what he saw. What he saw included some vacant buildings and closed businesses, but he also saw something more. He saw something that captivated him—the people of Stamford.

He saw, as he wrote, “charm”…and a town that “celebrates its existence and its people.” He wrote of friends and family who look upon James Washington as a role model, but who are role models themselves—the good, honest, hard-working people who work hard, take care of their own business, and are the quiet cogs that make a community successful. He wrote of people who are proud of a favorite son, not merely because of fame and fortune, but because he’s worked hard and earned his way into accomplishing his extraordinary dreams.

He wrote of schoolchildren who see James as proof that they can be anything that they want to be. This is something that we must work hard to instill in all children.

Where you come from doesn’t limit the kind of person you can become or what you can accomplish.

The author juxtaposing vacant buildings against wonderful people reminded me of a story from my own family in 1986, when my father had a career opportunity that would bring him to Stamford. He asked his father, my grandfather, what he thought about the town.

My grandfather said that, in all his years as a deliveryman and route salesman in the area, even when times were lean for him, he was always treated decently when he came to Stamford. That’s something my family has confirmed in our experiences for the last 31 years here.

This community’s greatest asset is its people. Seeing that quality observed and reported by national sports media is refreshing and exciting.

Vacant buildings can be changed. It’s a lot harder to change a culture of vacant people. When I read over the words in that article, I am energized to ensure that the buildings and economy of Stamford match its people.

James Decker is a lawyer, farmer, and mayor in Stamford, Texas, and the creator of the forthcoming “West of 98” podcast and website. He may be contacted through Facebook at facebook.com/james.decker.

news@americannewspapers.net We did have a few days of beautiful weather, since the rain on Wednesday. I bet we will be getting a freeze soon, it is getting time for it. Everything has grown up and there is lot of grasses and weeds around now.

I believe everyone had a lot of fun during Halloween. Maybe all went well with no accidents, Thankful for that.

Now we have an important holiday coming up on the Sunday, the 11th.

Remember our veterans that are still with us, so many have passed on and we must honored their memory and what they did for our freedom.

Just approximately three weeks until the great Thanksgiving. A wonderful time of family gatherings, and usually cold weather.

Just a reminder the Multi County Retired Teachers and School Personnel will be meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 14 at the Hawley Church of Christ for their luncheon and meeting at 11:30 A.M. Please try to be present.

The Hobby Club will be meeting on Thursday, Nov. 15 at the Sagerton Community Center for their monthly meeting at 2 P M. The Hobby Club had a super great Bazaar at the Sagerton Community Center on Saturday. We had a lot of vendors, great drawings and plenty of good food. A great group of folks came and went and all left with one or two packages and very happy. All of the delicious pastry was sold and all the lunch food was sold. I was so disappointed that I did not win the beautiful quilt and so were many more. Winning the quilt was Colin Brown of Rule,

pleasantly winner of the surprised deer feeder when Helen’s was Michael nieces, Paula Hertel of Rule, Heinz of the Pioneer Laverne, OklaWoman bowl homa and set was won Betty Davis

by Tori Ponder and husband of Haskell and the frozen OLD GLORY NEWS Tommy from Beaver, Oklaturkey winner homa came was Michelle

By Anita Dozier for a visit.

Toney of On Saturday, Sagerton. Lot they had a cousin reunion of great prizes to enjoy. at the Pierce home with Great words of apprecia22 of Helen’s nieces and tion was extended to all the nephews attending. They Hobby Club members and all brought food for lunch others on the hard work and then had a hamburger put into making the Bazaar cook out for the evening a great success. Looking meal. Helen and Glen were forward to next year. so proud to see all of them Debbie Vahlenkamp and and to have them to come Carm Letz attended the Bato their home. From a famzaar in Sagerton on Saturily of seven girls with Helen day. Later Debbie drove to the only sibling left, it was Sweetwater to visit some of her family, the David Scotts. such a surprise and honor to have all of them to come Dale and Carm Letz took to see them. She stated that their grandson, Brody Letz, her and Glen’s hearts were to Abilene to Teakwando. so full of love and joy from Following church serthe visit of all of her nieces vices on Sunday morning in and nephews that came Stamford, Doug and Debbie from Knox City, Haskell, Vahlenkamp and Dale and Abilene, Lubbock, Midland, Carm Letz was enjoying lunch and had surprise visi- Oklahoma and Old Glory.

Daughter Marcie Tucker tors to join them, John and of Hamby came to visit me Celinda Allison from Garon Saturday evening and dendale who were passing stayed all night and atthrough. A most enjoyable tended church with me on visit was held by all. Carm Sunday. I enjoyed her visit and Debbie attended Praise and help very much. and Worship Service on A large group of memSunday evening. bers gathered at the Lodge Mittie Dunham was in Hall on Sunday afternoon Aspermont on Sunday and for their monthly meeting met Theresa Anderson of and turkey dinner. PresiAspermont and Joe and dent Doug Vahlenkamp Beverly Ward of Tolar for called the meeting to order lunch. Joe and Beverly was and led the group in the on their way back home Pledge of Allegiance to from Lubbock and stopped both Flags. The minutes to have lunch with the two were read and treasures ladies and enjoyed a great report given. A moment of visit. silence was held in memory On Friday evening, Glen of a member who recently and Helen Pierce were

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

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passed, Bobby Joe Lusk of Rule. Doug reported on the success of the sausage supper and word of appreciation was extended to all who worked and helped to make the supper a success. Approximately 432 folks enjoyed the delicious meal in spite of the rain and mud. A discussion was held on purchasing new tables and chairs. It was decided to let the trustees check around for the best buy. A motion was made to do some work on the inside of the Lodge Hall to make it look neater. The motion carried and the trustees will decide what to do. Terry Letz won the door prize. The election was held and officers were elected as follows: President Doug Vahlenkamp; Vice President - Keith Corzine; Secretary - Diane Smith; Treasurer - Verlene Corzine; Trustee - Terry Letz; Fiance Committee - Chub Richards; Reporter - Anita Dozier. Members present with birthdays in November included Diane Smith and Keith Corzine. The next meeting will be on Sunday, December 2. Ham will be furnished, please bring a vegetable and dessert for the evening meal.

Thought for the week: “There is no greatness where there is no simplicity, goodness and truth.”

Happy Birthday wishes go to Gene Flanary, Doris Baucum, Laura Mueller, Susan Martin, Jay Beakley, Maxie Kohout, Lindsey Baldree, Greg Epley, Donnie Barbee, Ronnie Lackey, Emmery Nehring, Lori Ridenour, Amanda Johnson, Tina Jones, Carol Smith, and Bill Green. We wish you many more.

6 NOVEMBER 9, 2018 One of the things that I frequently talk about with tree owners is the fact that a tree represents a lot of useable energy for many different organisms, whose life cycle depends on getting past the tree’s defenses to access that energy. That kind of discussion often comes up when the tree we’re looking at has some kind of fungus attacking it.

By the way, I think of fungus as my least favorite thing to try and treat in a tree. The reality could be, and probably is, that there are other things that actually kill more trees than fungi. However, as an urban forester, rather than a silviculturist, my focus is on individual trees, not whole forests. In a landscape, a single tree is usually pretty important, and it’s loss, or retention, is going to be taken pretty seriously by its owner.

A silviculturist may be comfortable with a certain percentage of loss in a forest, but looking around a neighborhood, and telling a homeowner that losing their tree was no big deal, because the neighbors still have plenty of canopy cover, isn’t going to be taken too well.

Anyway, getting back to the potential meal that trees represent, there’s a lot more things than just

news@americannewspapers.net leaves do you think it takes for a pecan tree to create the energy needed to produce one pecan?

After you wrestle with that one for awhile, how many pecans do you think it takes to feed one squirrel for a year? Then, how many squirrels does it take to feed one WEST TEXAS TREES predator that feeds on squirrels? It’s going to AND LANDSCAPES take a lot of pecan trees

By Bruce Kreitler and to furnish enough folito meet the needs the KWKC Green Team age of that particular food chain all the way to the apex predator at the top fungus that depend on of it. trees. Trees are more than These days, with all the just an energy source, they’re a veritable smorgas- discussion about green house gases, especially bord of the natural world. carbon dioxide, the term When you get down to it, all life on earth depends on “carbon capture” is used a lot. When trees, and sunlight for subsistence, other green leafy plants, and trees are in the group are converting sunlight that converts that sunlight into energy, part of that into something that other process is stripping carbon species of life, who can’t out of the atmosphere, and directly convert sunlight, sequestering it. While we can use. Trees are “automay like that part of all of trophs”, which means they this, it’s not just sunlight are capable of producing that is being converted into their own food (energy) something other things from existing resources such as carbon dioxide and can feed on, but also the carbon dioxide. The carbon available elements (nutricapture part of this is ents). As most autotrophs where a lot of the physido, they use light from the cal body of a tree comes sun to power this process. from, and there are plenty In one way or another, the of things, and fungi are in entire food chain is based this group, that want to on things that can confeed on that stored carbon. vert sunlight into usable Of course, when they do, energy. that either returns it to the Not to get too sideatmosphere, or is part of tracked, but each trophic the process of returning it step up the food chain, to the atmosphere. I think comes at a huge loss in the carbon capture part of efficiency. Doing a little tree growth is incredibly study along those lines interesting, and imporyields some pretty imprestant, but it’s not exactly sive information about what people think it is. In how much energy leafy reality, if we are going to green plants have to create depend on trees to remove to supply food for the rest excess carbon dioxide of the food chain. Just as from the atmosphere, the an example, how many

only way to obtain that is to increase the number of trees in the world, and keep that number up.

Carbon stored in trees is only held there temporarily, and in order to depend on trees as a storage “tank” for increased amounts of carbon, we would have to make the storage part of that cycle (the tank) bigger.

The funny part about this is that grasses are much better at carbon capture than trees, but the return cycle back into the atmosphere for the carbon in grass is much quicker.

One of the ways to think about all of this, is that the sun is a big battery, or at least energy distribution point, and green leafy plants, trees being key among them, are how that energy is converted into a usable form. Of course, when a tree is growing, say in your yard, there are a lot of things that would really, really, like to get at that converted/stored energy, and take it to the next stage. Part of the process of retaining trees, and keeping them in good health, is trying to prevent, or at least slow, that natural process.

If you have any landscaping, landscape maintenance, or tree questions you would like answered in this column, submit them care of cmetler@stamfordamerican.net or info@ BrokenWillow.com.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

AS CHINA TIGHTENS ITS BELT, U.S. SOYBEANS FEEL THE PINCH The giant of world soybean trade, China, will slash its soy imports by 10 percent this trade year under the dual effects of a trade war with the United States and an outbreak of African swine fever, said the U.S. agriculture attache in Beijing.

SIX MONTHS TO SOW IDEAS FOR VOLUNTARY ORGANIC CHECKOFF Rebuffed by the Trump administration, the Organic Trade Association turned to the public on Monday for ideas on how to design a voluntary checkoff program to raise research-andpromotion money for the sector and where to put the money.

TRUMP’S TRADE WAR KNOCKS SOYBEANS OUT OF RUNNING FOR TOP U.S. CROP FOR A DECADE The neck-and-neck race between soybeans and corn for the title of No. 1 U.S. crop is over after one lap, with corn the victor and soybeans out of the running due to trade war with China. The USDA says corn will be the acreage king for years to come while soybeans recover slowly from the loss of sales to China, which used to buy one of every three bushels of U.S. soybeans.

INSPECTOR GENERAL TO REVIEW USDA RELOCATION OF TWO AGENCIES Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue aims to announce the new homes for two USDA research agencies in early 2019, potentially relocating them as far away as California to save money and make it easier

KASN AG REPORT

By Richard Kemp to recruit workers. The inspector general, however, will review whether Perdue can act on his own, announced two lawmakers.

FOUR TIMES MORE TARIFF PAIN THAN FINANCIAL GAIN IN ‘NEW NAFTA’ Although President Trump declared the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement a big win for U.S. farmers, a study released on Wednesday says U.S. farm exports will fall by $1.8 billion due to retaliatory tariffs by Mexico and Canada. That would be four times larger than the gains the trade pact would produce.

EPA WOULD EXEMPT CAFOS FROM RIGHT-TOKNOW REPORTING OF MANURE GASES The EPA has proposed a rule that would exempt industrial livestock farms from a requirement under a “community right-to-know law” that they notify state and local officials of gases produced by the manure on their farms.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

CITY: Continued From Page 1 The following City Holidays for 2019 were approved. New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day, two days for Thanksgiving, two days for Christmas and one Floating Holiday to be approved on a personal basis.

Project Manager Coldon Rich from the engineering company of Enprotec, Hibbs & Todd (EHT) gave a presentation and asked for approvals concerning the New Membrane Water Treatment Plant. Several months ago, a pilot study was done on the water from Lake Stamford. Raw water from Lake Stamford was run through a small, scale sized water treatment plant with membranes in it to see if those membranes had the ability to treat the water from Lake Stamford.

After this was completed, a report was submitted to the TCEQ and the majority of the report was approved.

Then they submitted a request for proposals to the Texas Water Development Board, the entity providing the money to complete this project. They approved getting proposals for this project. Rich gave a list of the manufacturers who have submitted proposals to supply the membranes and a document scoring the companies, which included filtration, price and experience. There were four pilot studies completed, each

with a different type of membrane. After questions were answered and the subject discussed, the Council approved the scoring in order for EHT to go ahead with the design project.

Next, Alan Plumlee led a discussion concerning transferring funds between the Lake Lot Lease funds and the general fund. The Council approved the transfer.

Another item was a request to close a portion of McGowan St. in Stamford.

Mr. Davis is the owner of adjacent property on S. McKinley St., living at the corner of McKinley and McGowan. The discussion uncovered questions about the property. The Council approved to table this item until Council Members can go out and take a look at the property.

Next on the agenda was to re-visit the City’s investment possibilities and to take action, if needed. Jim Astin from First Bank of Texas was able to provide information. It was approved for the following people to meet and look into investment possibilities: Jimmy Doan, Alan Plumlee, Ken Roberson and Karen Lou Graham.

Next, it was approved to table a tax bid until further information could be obtained. The entity property is located at Lot 2, Block 107, Original Town of Stamford, Jones County, Texas (R28820). Bid from Melvett and Bonnie Ford.

City Manager, Alan Plumlee, reported Stamford joining Jones County in their Disaster Declaration. FEMA came to Stamford last week to look at some of the sites that were caused due to heavy rains and wash outs on roads. The potholes are not included. “What we’re waiting on is the President to declare a Presidential Declaration before we actually start getting some money.” FEMA told Plumlee if allowed they would come back with funds to scrape the dirt or gravel roads, grade them, put a crown on them and put dirt, gravel on them.

Mr. Plumlee received word from the commissioner in Haskell County. The City and County of Haskell have agreed to allow all the lake residents in Haskell County to haul debris from the recent storms to the Haskell landfill at no charge. He continues to be in touch with and gather information concerning the water treatment plant.

Melinda Smith spoke about the Abilene Reporter News having an article on the Cowboy Country Museum. Mayor Decker gave an update on the Grand Theater. It will be opening to the public on “Black Friday”, November 23rd.

The movie to be shown has not yet been announced.

The meeting was then adjourned.

Jones County 4-H to Sell Poinsettias for Fall Fundraiser Jones County 4-H Clubs will be selling POINSETTIAS for a Fall fundraiser that will benefit all 4-H members. You can order one or more poinsettia pots for $12 each. This is a great opportunity for individuals,

businesses or churches to purchase poinsettias for the upcoming holiday season.

4-H members will be taking orders through November 9th. Delivery date is expected the first week in December. Payment is due

at the time of the order.

To order your poinsettias, contact a local 4-H member, email your order to jones@ ag.tamu.edu or call the Extension Office at (325)8232432.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

7

Paint Creek Students of the Week

Katie Perez - 6th grade

Audrianna Yanez - 5th grade

8 NOVEMBER 9, 2018

The Dog Pound

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Students sprucing up the “S” on E. Hamilton Street.

Bresha Applin is serving as the 2018-2019 Bulldog mascot.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

SHS Band (photo by Bearden Photography)

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NOVEMBER 9, 2018

9

Jones County News

10 NOVEMBER 9, 2018

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

CHARITY Our good word for today is CHARITY. Personally, I like this word.

It just has a pleasant sound to it. The Apostle Paul wrote about it in the Bible. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (KJV) “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” These were listed as the top three traits of a mature Christian. But he gave charity as the most Bill Hillier important. The Apostle went on to say that no matter what you did or said, if it was not done out of the spirit of charity it was of no value. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (KJV) “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.” Charity is love for our fellow human beings. It is said that charity begins at home. It is true we must love those in our home and care for their needs above all. But, we must carry charity even further: outside the home. And remember this: 1 Peter 4:8 (KJV) “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” See a need, fill that need, but do it out of love, not duty (that’s a word for another day). And, you surely will have a blessed day.

A GOOD WORD FROM BROTHER BILL

Bro. Bill

Lueders-Avoca FFA Officers served as group leaders at the annual Jones County Ag in the Classroom Field Day held in Anson.

Pictured are: Riley Moore, Jeremiah Jarvis, Lexi Williams, Mattie Barnes, Alyssa Webb, Gloria Moorefield and Alyssa Wyatt.

The Anson Tiger JV Football Squad Traveled to Clyde

BY COACH NICHOLS The Anson Tiger JV football squad traveled to Clyde on Thursday, October 25, 2018, and took on the

Comanche Indians. The game was very physical and both teams played well. The Tigers fell behind early in the contest only to surge back in the second half and

DEATH NOTICE Dolly Joyce Dodgen, loving wife, mother, grandmother, passed from this life to her eternal home Friday, November 2, 2018 at the age of 74 years. Funeral services were held 10:0 a.m. Tuesday, November 6, 2018 in Kinney-Underwood Funeral Chapel with Don Longoria officiating. Interment followed in Hawley Cemetery under the direction of Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home in Stamford. Visitation was held from 6-7 p.m. Monday evening, November 5, 2018 at the funeral home.

ultimately fell at the end by the score of 21-14.

Highlights: Scoring for the Tigers included: Mason Hagler 4 yd TD run, Gavin Williams 12 yd TD catch from Hagler, 2 pt conversion – good – Gavin Williams 3 yd catch from Hagler.

Playing well for the Tigers included Max Hagler, Clinton Shank, Robin Tacker, Haygen Garcia, Marco

Gonzales. The offense was effective because of the blocking of the offensive line mentioned above. Also playing well included Gavin Williams, Levi Lozano, Mason Hagler, Riley Pippen, and Jacob Garza. Playing well defensively for the Tigers included Devin Thompson, Martin Mendes, Ethan Doby, and Chris Lynn.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

THE RECKONING: By John Grisham Premeditated, cold blooded murder. Pete Banning offers no reason for his actions. Although he survived atrocious suffering as a prisoner of war at the hands of the Japanese during World War II, Banning refuses to let his lawyers use insanity as a defense.

Pete wanted to have a career in the military. The Great Depression plus the early deaths of his parents changed his plans. Pete resigned his commission and came home to save his family’s Mississippi farm, but remained in the reserves. His wife, Liza, never expected to be a farmer’s wife. After reaching an uneasy peace with Pete’s sister, Liza adapted to the Southern rural lifestyle. When war seemed inevitable, Banning’s reserve unit was recalled and sent to the Philippines.

General McArthur’s abrupt departure left thousands of American troops cut off from supplies and reinforcements. Banning’s unit was forced to surrender or face starvation. The commanders thought that Japan would abide by the Geneva Convention’s protocol for the humane treatment of prisoners. Japan, however, refused to acknowledge that treaty. Banning was caught in the horrendous Bataan death march where thousands of U.S. troops died.

Barbaric treatment at the hands of the Japanese, plus the ravages of diseases such as dysentery, malaria and

READING REVIEW Martha Jarred Dengue fever increased the mortality rate of the American soldiers.

Before he was sent on a slave ship to Japan’s mainland, Banning managed to escape. He joined a group of guerrilla warriors fighting in the jungle.

Shortly before the liberation of the Philippines, Banning was seriously wounded. He managed to survive the brutal conditions he was subjected to by focusing on returning home to his wife, his children and his Mississippi farm.

Pete’s family were shocked when they were notified he was missing in action and presumed dead. Liza took the news very hard. Among the friends who came to comfort her were the pastor and his wife of the Methodist church. Dexter Bell faithfully continued his daily visits until word arrived that Pete was alive.

Within two years of Banning’s

homecoming, Liza has been committed to an insane asylum and Pete, the decorated war hero of Ford County, Mississippi, is on trial for the first degree murder of Dexter Bell.

THE RECKONING presents a haunting picture of life in the South during the 1940’s. The story is told in three parts. The second section gives a detailed backstory of the military service of Pete Banning providing a deep insight into his strength and perseverance. This compelling narrative documents in vivid detail the tragic losses of the U. S. Military during a dark portion of World War II. The Banning family’s heartwrenching story continues as lives are altered due to circumstances beyond their control. Grisham is at his finest when picturing court room procedurals.

Lueders-Avoca Raiders at home against Parkview Christian Final Lueders-Avoca 50-Parkview 47. (Courtesy of Roger Niehaus)

VIP MENU November 12-16 Monday Taco Salad, Spanish Rice, Mexican Corn, Pears Tuesday Orange Chicken, Oriental Rice, Fortune

Cookies, Green Beans, Mandarin Oranges Wednesday Chicken Fried Steak, Baked Potato, Salad, Sour Cream Cheesecake Thursday Chili Cheese Dog, French Fries, Macaroni Salad, Cinnamon Apples

Friday Ham Pasta Salad, Broccoli Salad, Waldorf Salad, Crackers, Yogurt

11

12 NOVEMBER 9, 2018

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Meet the Seniors NICOLE PARKS FAVORITE SUBJECT: Art WHAT GOALS DO YOU PLAN TO ACCOMPLISH DURING YOUR SENIOR YEAR?: To finish school, learn alot about life, make new experiences WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?: To join the military, army branch WHAT WILL YOU MISS ABOUT STAMFORD?: My grandpa BEST PART OF BEING A

STAMFORD BULLDOG?: I love that the school is small DAKOTA SANDERS FAVORITE SUBJECT: Ag WHAT GOALS DO YOU PLAN TO ACCOMPLISH DURING YOUR SENIOR YEAR?: Making A’s and B’s WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?: I plan on going to college to be a diesel mechanic WHAT WILL YOU MISS ABOUT STAMFORD?: The TCR

PASTOR’S PEN RJ SMITH

FAVORITE SUBJECT: Athletics

WHAT GOALS DO YOU PLAN TO ACCOMPLISH DURING YOUR SENIOR YEAR?: To be great at everything I do WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?: Work WHAT WILL YOU MISS ABOUT STAMFORD?: Family BEST PART OF BEING A STAMFORD BULLDOG?: The pride

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 Baptist Church Pastor Bud Akins 301 E Moran 773-2577 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 Chapel Gerald Spalding 501 W. McHarg 325-773-2866 AM Worship: 10:00 Faith Lutheran Church Sagerton, Texas 940-200-0723 AM Worship: 10:30

First Assembly of God Family Worship Center Pastor Randy Rawls 1214 Compton 325-773-2435 Am Worship: 10:45

Sun. 10 Bible Classes 11 Morning Assembly Orient Street Church of Christ Wes Horn 510 S Orient 773-3419 Worship: 10:30

First Baptist Church John Ward 214 N Swenson 325-773-2781 AM Worship: 11:00

Paint Creek Baptist Church Pastor Tony Grand 940-864-3358 AM Worship: 11:00

House of God Pastor Bobby Acosta 802 Ferguson St Sundays 11:00am

St Ann’s Catholic Church Father Angelo Consemino 1001 S Swenson 325-773-2659 AM Mass: 11:00

Lueders First Baptist Church Roscoe McCoy 228-4622 AM Worship: 11:00

St. John’s United Methodist Church Pastor John Erwin 201 S Ferguson 325-773-2561 AM Worship: 10:50

MacKenzie Trail Cowboy Church Greg Taylor 325-513-2505 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 Ron Ballard, Preacher

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

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

By Dalton Mathis

Dressed for Action The Lord Jesus Christ is coming back soon! Whether that time is tomorrow or another thousand years from now, we as Christians should be ready for His arrival. I say this because Jesus said to “Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning.” (Luke 12:35). We are to be ready for his arrival, because it could happen at any moment. Even more so we must realize that whether Christ comes back in our lifetime or not, we still are fading away quickly and our individual life on earth is so very short.

The Bible tells us that our life is like “a mist that appears for a little time then vanishes.” (James 4:14). The older I get the more I realize the truth that is in this Scripture. Moses, too, felt the same when he prayed to the LORD, “teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom” (Ps. 90:12). It should be no secret that our life on this earth is short, and in the

same comparison we as Christians should rejoice knowing that Eternal Paradise is not too far away. For the Bible tells us that the reward for trusting Jesus as LORD of your life on this earth will be “the salvation of your souls” (1 Pet. 1:9).

To stay dressed for action literally means to be ready at all times. Some translations use the phrase “let your loins stay girded”.

This description is like a man that is prepared to run because he has tucked in his long robe inside his belt. Since he has his robe tucked in, he is ready to work hard for the LORD and he surely won’t trip while doing this faithful service. Since we know that life is passing by and Jesus tells us to “stay dressed for action” we might as well serve Christ with all that we have in these remaining days of our life.

One day were going to meet the Messiah face to face. He already knows the answer of course, but what

if he asked you what you did with your life? How would you respond? Would your answer be full of things that are only about you and your achievements or would there be some things that gave Him glory?

Remember we were placed here not for our own glory but for the glory of the Almighty King (Isa. 43:7).

I heard it said best by my dad the other day. He said, “that most people on a tombstone look at the two dates. One is when they were born and one is when they passed away. No one really pays attention to the dash in between the two dates. But the dash in between is the most important because it symbolizes our life, and God is more concerned about what we do with the dash between the numbers than anything.”

We must make the most of this small dash that we have been given. What is your dash going to say one day?

Stay dressed for action!

Blessings to you this week!

ROTARY CLUB NEWS Last week, the Stamford FFA Ag Team presented their Ag issue program on CRSSPR and this week the Ag Issue’s Team from Haskell presented their program. They have chosen the topic of RIGHT TO REPAIR LEGISLATION. The AG teacher is Missy Thompson and the team includes Kaelyn Bevel,

C’Era Taylor, Grace Colley, Kourtney Gibson and Braelyn Bevel. They have selected an interesting topic and were well prepared to present both sides of the issue. Government regulations and restrictions in the sales contract in some cases prevent purchasers of equipment to be able to select the repair people

that they prefer when their equipment needs to be maintained. The pros and cons were well defined and members of our Club had some interesting questions for each side. Again, we can be proud of our young people as they prepare for their future.

Nominations Sought For Gifted And Talented Stamford ISD will accept nominations for the 2019-2020 Gifted and Talented Program, November 1-November 19. If you are interested in nominating a student in grades K-12 for this program, you will need to go by the campus principal’s office to complete the

necessary forms.

Students are selected for the gifted program based on their scores in five areas. The areas are: (1) Parent Checklist (2) Teacher Checklist (3) Intelligence Test (4) Creativity Test and (5) Performance Tasks.

The student must score

at the district line on 4 out of the 6 areas to qualify.

Students who were previously nominated but did not qualify must wait two years before being nominated again.

For more information, contact the campus principal’s office.

Opinion

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Stop, Think Child Safety There has been an alarming trend that has been in the news lately and that is the numerous incidents of people in their vehicles failing to observe a stop sign. Sure, it happens all of the time, but it is still wrong to do. However, this particular stop sign holds even more importance because it is the one that comes out when a school bus is stopped to drop off or pick up children. I know it seems crazy to think about, but it is true and it has been happening a lot more often than you think. You can pull Will McClure up videos of people actually jumping curbs and driving on sidewalks just to get around stopped school buses! My big worry here is that this is something we should not have to be reminded of to do or even talk about, with the big reason being that it is not to inconvenience drivers but instead to insure children are safe.

What brought this discussion to light recently is the story of the three siblings in Indiana that were stuck by a vehicle while crossing the street to the school bus, which had the stop sign extended. Further reports stated that the older sister of the three tried to save her brothers when the car just kept coming. This was a tragedy that should never have happened, and it was all because someone thought they knew better, but now they must face the consequences of their poor judgment.

How did our society get so far gone that many people care so much about themselves that they do not care who they are affecting? We have all of these laws in place for a reason to make sure that safety is the number one priority, yet people think they know better. You see people go by stopped school busses or go well over the speed limit, especially during construction, or make their own turning lane at a red light, all for what? Saving a few minutes travel time? I know sometimes that we are in a hurry, but there has got to be a time where we all say “enough is enough” and try to help prevent the reckless drivers. Going a step further here, we also need to think about the children that are watching these acts and, when they get older and get their license, think that it is okay to break the safety laws as long as “no one gets hurt.” Even if no one is hurt by reckless behavior, it can still have a long-lasting effect.

I will freely admit that this week is a rant, but I am sure that you are just as sick and tired of these incidents that we see daily. There is nothing practical or “smart” about breaking laws and it is only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt. However, there are some individuals at least trying to curb these behaviors. Recently I saw a post on social media where a bus stopped in the middle of a two-lane road, blocking both lanes of traffic. The driver wasn’t broken down, but instead took a stand to protect the children boarding and unloading by doing this act to prevent any sort of incident. While some may say that is inconsiderate, it would be no different had the driver stopped normally with the sign out as both lanes would need to stop.

There is no inconsiderate behavior here; it is instead very praiseworthy to think about children’s safety. I would hope that these recent incidents can serve as a reality check for many, but we all know that eventually we will move on and some will go back to disregarding the law. I say we should not let it lie and instead make an effort to make sure that we can all be safe on the road, both motorists and children. We see that sign all of the time, especially by schools, and I think we need to always remember it: “slow, think child safety.”

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

THOUGHTS FROM UNDER THE CAP

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

13

Fun With Pigeons It was raining when I visited Mike Sutton of Andrews. He has a series of tin-roofed buildings where he keeps hundreds of homing pigeons. Rain on a tin roof makes a pleasing sound, which mixed well with the cooing of the pigeons.

“We have a 600 mile race here once a year and we have four or five 500 mile races,” says Mike. We had a race from Shreveport, Louisiana, and two of my pigeons were turned out on a Saturday morning at seven o’clock and they got here in Andrews at five PM. That’s 503 miles.”

He takes them further from home each training session.

“I start at a mile, let them come home, then I move up to five miles and let them come home. I’m training a new group right now and they went eleven miles yesterday.

Next weekend I hope to get them out to twenty-five or thirty miles.

I need to get them out to about sixty miles before the races. Our first race will be 100 miles but they don’t need to be trained that far.

Once they come home from sixty miles they can come home from just about anywhere.”

There are several theories why homing pigeons always return home.

“Some say they use a magnetic field. There are some who say

TUMBLEWEED SMITH they use their strong sense of smell. They have put contact lenses on them to cover their eyes so they couldn’t see, then turned them loose and they still came home.”

In a race, times are registered by computer, a big change from earlier days when the birds carried bands on their legs that had to be removed, causing some pain.

“I put a chip in their legs and I have a scanner. When they cross that scanner it scans their number into a clock, which indicates the time they got here. After the race is over and all the birds have

come home we take this computer clock over to the clubhouse and we have a computer over there. We enter everybody’s clocks into the computer and the computer generates a race sheet that tells who won the race.”

Mike says racing pigeons started in Europe.

“China has come into pigeon racing in the last few years and now has some 300,000, more pigeon fliers that any other country. They go to Europe and buy birds. Last year a bird was sold for 400,000 dollars to a Chinese man. There’s a race or two now that pays 50,000 dollars to the first place bird.”

Mike paid five dollars for a pigeon that beat one that cost his competitor 20,000 dollars. Mike also has some roller pigeons.

“They are birds that fly real high and turn somersaults on the way down. They tumble head first and they’re fun to watch.”

Mike has been fooling with pigeons sixty years. He has some show pigeons.

From Armistice Day to Veterans’ Day In 1918, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month, the world rejoiced and celebrated. The “war to end all wars” was over. November 11, 1919 was set aside as Armistice Day in the United States, to remember the sacrifices made by men and women during World War I. Congress

voted Armistice Day a federal holiday in 1938, 20 years after the war ended. In 1953 Congress passed a bill introduced by a Kansas congressman renaming the federal holiday Veterans’ Day. Americans still give thanks for peace on Veterans’ Day. There are ceremonies and speeches and at 11:00 in the

morning, most Americans observe a moment of silence, remembering those who fought for peace. Let’s all remember those brave men and women who served our country and secured peace for all of us.

14 NOVEMBER 9, 2018

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Secretary of State Pablos Applauds Early Voting Turnout Statistics compiled by the office of the secretary of state show Texans cast ballots in record numbers during the early voting period before the Nov. 6 midterm general election.

Of the 12,255,607 registered voters in the 30 mostpopulous counties of Texas, some 4,884,528 individuals voted in person or by mail during the early voting period of Oct. 22 through Nov. 2. That comes to nearly 40 percent of registered voters for those counties. If not a record, that is unusually high in comparison to early voting in previous nonpresidential elections.

Texas Secretary of State Rolando Pablos, the state’s chief elections officer, on Nov. 2 encouraged the 11 million registered voters who did not take advantage of early voting to get to the polls and vote on Election Day. “As you head to the polls, please be prepared to join the millions of Texans who are eager to cast their votes,” Pablos said. “I ask you to be patient and respectful as Texans celebrate this privileged event of civic duty to exercise their fundamental right to vote.”

Pablos addressed rumors that electronic voting machines might be inaccurately processing ballots.

He assured voters that each of their choices on their ballots would be counted accurately and securely and that “every polling place in Texas is staffed by trained elections officials and personnel who are there to help you, are ready to assist and can ensure that you are able to successfully cast your vote.”

Abbott Requests Declaration Gov. Greg Abbott on Oct. 30 sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting a presidential disaster declaration for counties especially hard-hit by severe weather and flood-

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ed Sterling

ing that caused widespread damage across the state in mid-October.

More counties may be added to the declaration as local, state and federal agencies continue to assess damages, Abbott said.

“The magnitude of recent severe weather and flooding has taken a serious toll on Texans across the state. With such widespread flooding and devastation, additional resources are needed to help Texans recover,” Abbott said.

In addition to his request for a presidential disaster declaration, Abbott on Oct. 30 expanded his state disaster declaration to cover some 111 Texas counties.

Abbott has authorized the use of all available resources of state government and of political subdivisions to aid in the response efforts.

TxDOT Urges More Safety The Texas Department of Transportation on Nov. 1 announced that since Nov. 7, 2000 — a period of 18 years — at least one person has died on Texas roadways every single day.

To increase awareness, TxDOT called for Texans to post photo and video testimonials using the social media hashtag #EndTheStreakTX. “We all have the power to end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Laura Ryan.

“Don’t drink and drive; put away the cell phone; buckle up; and obey traffic laws. Be the driver you would want

next to you, in front of you or behind you. Together, we can end the streak.”

“It’s heartbreaking to know that every day for the past 18 years someone has lost a spouse, child, friend or neighbor on our state’s roadways,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass.

“Ending this deadly daily streak is a shared responsibility. We will continue to engineer our roads to be more forgiving of drivers’ errors, but we all must work toward ending such preventable contributing factors as distracted driving, speeding and drunk driving.”

Revenue Total Increases State sales tax revenue totaled $2.6 billion in October, an amount 7.3 percent more than the amount reported in October 2017, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said on Nov. 2.

Total sales tax revenue for the three months ending in October 2018 was up 12.6 percent compared to the same period a year ago.

The sales tax is the largest source of state funding for the state budget, accounting for 57 percent of all tax collections.

However, revenue from other major taxes on motor vehicle sales and rentals, motor fuel and oil and natural gas production were mixed for the month, as follows: — Motor vehicle sales and rental taxes, $438.4 million, down 2.6 percent compared with October 2017; — Motor fuel taxes, $298 million, down 4.2 percent compared with October 2017; and — Oil and natural gas production taxes, $439.9 million, up 52.4 percent compared with October 2017.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR FLUID INJECTION WELL PERMIT Mercury Operating, LLC, 1303 W. Walnut Hill, Ste 305, Irving, TX 75038, is applying to Railroad Commission of Texas for a permit to inject fluid into a formation which is productive of oil and/ or gas.

The applicant proposes to inject fluid into the Flippen Formation, Clemmer Lease, Well Number 6. The proposed injection well is located 4 miles southwest of Anson in the Harold (Flippen Lime) Field, in Jones County. Fluid will be injected into strata in the subsurface depth interval from 2400 to 2422 feet.

LEGAL AUTHORITY: Chapter 27 of the Texas Water Code, as amended, Title 3 of the Texas Natural Resources Code, as

REAL ESTATE For Sale: 217 acre farm with river frontage in Haskell County between Rule & Sagerton. 150 cultivated acres, brick farmhouse, city water. Also pastures with good hunting.

Asking $1,200/ac. Contact Susan Black @915-487-9367.

amended, and the Statewide Rules of the Oil and Gas Division of the Railroad Commission of Texas.

Requests for a public hearing from persons who can show they are adversely affected, or requests for further information concerning any aspect of the application should be submitted in writing, within fifteen days of publication, to the Environmental Services Section, Oil and Gas Division, Railroad Commission of Texas, P.O. Box 12967, Austin, Texas 78711 (Telephone 512-463-6792).

HELP WANTED Full-Time LVN needed at Stamford Family Health Center, 1601 Columbia St., Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Applications available through Human Resources by emailing: hr@stamfordhosp.com.

Contact Debbie Walters at 325773-4884 for more information.

SERVICE Mowing, weed eating, tree trimming, and clean up.

Reasonable prices. 325-3705411

2952 CR 216 Beautiful 4 BD, 2 bath 2 story 1 acre South of Town!..........$153,900 1502 Compton 3/2/2 Ranch home w/room for horses! hardwoods, Fireplace!...$129,900 1501 Hudson Rd Over 2,800 Sq. Ft. 3/2/2 rock home w a 3/2 apt.IN CONTRACT 1611 N Swenson Previous Cliff House Restaurant in great location............... $79,000 1217 Compton Gorgeous Stone home w/ 2 bedrooms, 1 bath....... Reduced.$68,900 716 E. Oliver 4 BR, 2 bath with 2 car garage in quiet neighborhood.................$69,900 1310 Hudson 3 Bd, 2 bath w/carport close to country club......................................SOLD 1609 Swenson 1,200 sq ft metal building............................. Reduced $29,500 Jones County

FARM & RANCH

Stonewall County 800± ac on the Salt Fork of the Brazos!

108± ac Shinnery near River! REDUCED 4,743± Ac Patterson N Ranch 165± Ac livestock/hunting CONTRACT548 ± Ac Pasture, Cul. Great Hunting 155± Ac LIVE WATER! SOLD 483± Ac Half Cultivation SOLD 512± ac Top of Flat top CRP, 2 wells 65± Ac Pasture w hunting E of McCaulley 704± Ac Clear Fork, Cult. & Pasture SOLD

Haskell County 640± Ac Mule Creek Ranch Great Hunting w Nice Cabin!

512± ac Top of Flat top CRP, 2 wells 65± Ac Pasture, hunting E of McCaulley

Fisher County 631± Ac All Pasture! Rough Creek 370± Ac Canyons, Springs, Hunting 178 ± Ac Shinnery, Fantastic Hunting 1423± Ac Canyons

Shackelford County 200± ac Quarry income, Good Hunting!

Kent Co 789± Ac Improvements w Hunting!

SOLD

NOVEMBER 9, 2018

15

COURT: Continued From Page 1 They laid out Compton’s pattern to the jury which included deflecting guilt away from himself, lying until it was proven he was lying, then blaming his victims and showing no remorse for his criminal acts.

The prosecution stated if given life without parole, Compton can work in the general population and in time with good behavior could work his way back to the very job he had when he killed Marianne Johnson. They stated nowhere would be safe and nowhere would he not be around women. Included in their statements was the reference to Compton’s mother, herself being raised in a horrific home.

That she didn’t go on to commit rape and murder.

The prosecution asked the jury as to Special Issue #1 to vote yes to the question of future danger and no to there being sufficient

mitigating circumstances.

“Stop him here and stop him now, because you are the only ones who can.”

The defense concentrated on the mitigating circumstances in Compton’s life to warrant the sentence of life without parole. “Trauma created the person we have now.”

They stated that Compton learned to blame others and to wear masks from his family from birth and that his family, agencies, schools all let him down.

The defense conceded there were two different Comptons, but they were the damaged child and the one trying to overcome his past. They pointed out it was said the he had a maladaptive way to deal with trauma, from a psychological evaluation.

The defense blamed the prison system for the circumstances that led to Johnson’s death.

There was a breakdown in

structure, procedures and interactions between the guards and the prisoners in the maximum security prison. They went on the defense with the prosecutors, stating that the state wanted to “sell” the jury on the “notion” that the years 0 to 6 don’t matter.

“My job is to save this kid’s life.” “Are you going to put Dillion down like a dog?”

When the prosecution’s turn came again, they stated that nothing Compton faced in his life was worse than what he dished out. That he is a vicious and violent man and that childhood trauma was not sufficiently mitigating not to give him the death penalty. They listed the characteristics Compton has displayed in the two crimes he has been convicted of including liar, manipulative, self-centered, blames others, sneaky, excited by crime, brazen and opportunistic. The prosecution asked the jury if Compton was to receive life without parole, “who else is going to die?”

The prosecution then came back around to Marianne Johnson and Comp-

ton’s other victims, including her family who has to live without her. They also spoke of the people who keep us safe, the prison guards and correctional officers. That these people look beyond fear and the terrible deeds of the people in prison. They show inmates respect, their goal being rehabilitation and to get them back into society.

The jury was sequestered on Monday, November 5th and rendered their sentence on the morning of Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Compton received the death penalty.

After the sentence was read, the family was given the opportunity to make impact statements. Compton sat in his seat and looked at the speakers but showed no emotion. Several family members made statements, looking at Compton and telling him what he had taken away from them and how they felt about it. Many members of Marianne Johnson’s family cried, as did members of the audience which included the jury.

16 NOVEMBER 9, 2018

news@americannewspapers.net

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Big Country Electric Cooperative Announces Annual Contest You’re a Texas high school student. You’re smart; you have big dreams.

Maybe you’ve never been out of the state, and maybe you’ve never flown on a plane, but you want to travel—experience a big city, visit historic landmarks and meet people, and not just fellow high schoolers but influential public figures, like U.S. representatives.

If that describes you, then you’re a candidate to compete for a slot on the Government-in-Action Youth Tour, an all-expensepaid trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by Big Country Electric Cooperative and organized by Texas Electric Cooperatives.

Apply by January 24, 2019 for your chance to win a ticket for this adventure, which has been called the trip of a lifetime. Three local contestants will be chosen by an independent panel of judges to represent BCEC on the Governmentin-Action Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., June 1221, 2019. An alternate will also be chosen in the event a winner cannot make the trip. Each winner and the runner-up will also receive a $1,500 scholarship from Big Country Electric Cooperative.

Youth Tour is an actionpacked trip to the U.S. Capitol with about 150 of your

peers and chaperones from across Texas and more than 1,700 from across the United States. You’ll visit the Washington National Cathedral, Arlington National Cemetery, Mount Vernon, Smithsonian Institution, memorials, and more.

Activities include learning about rural electrification, seeing a performance at the Kennedy Center, going on a boat cruise of the Potomac River with dinner and dancing, and meeting congressional leaders.

You could be part of this legacy shared by the more than 3,800 past Texas Youth Tour students – more than 50,000 nationwide - who have participated since 1965. To apply, submit your video on this year’s contest topic: Compare how electricity and the Internet have changed society and everyday life for rural Americans. How will they continue to do so?

Eligible entrants must: •Be a current 10th, 11th, or 12th grader at a school in Big Country EC’s service area (Borden, Fisher, Garza, Haskell, Jones, Kent, Mitchell, Nolan, Scurry, Shackelford, Stonewall and Throckmorton Counties).

•Students’ parents/ guardians DO NOT have to be members/customers of Big Country Electric Cooperative to compete in and win

the Youth Tour contest.

•Application form may be submitted via webform at bigcountry.coop, by clicking on Service Beyond Electricity → Youth Tour. If you prefer, you may download the printable version and submit to Sarah McLen at smclen@bigcountry.coop or fax to 325.776.2246. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 24, 2019.

•Once your application is received, you will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to post your video. Videos will only be available to the group of Youth Tour applicants, not the public.

•Videos must be uploaded by 10:00 p.m. Thursday, January 31, 2019. Please include your name with the video title. Example: Title of my Video by John Smith.

Videos must be a minimum of 3 minutes but no more than 5 minutes long.

•Multiple applicants CANNOT submit the same video. The video MUST BE YOUR OWN ORIGINAL CREATION! Entrants will be notified of results by email or phone

by Noon on Monday, February 11, 2019.

For more information about Youth Tour, contact Sarah McLen at (325) 7763803 or smclen@bigcountry.coop.

Middle School OAP to Perform The Stamford Middle School One Act Play will have a public performance this Sunday, Nov. 11th at 3:00. The One Act Play district competition will be in Albany on Thursday, Nov. 15th at 1:00. The name of the play is “A Canterbury Tale from the Wife of Bath.” Stamford will be the second play to perform.