December 6, 2019 12 PAGES FULL OF NEWS, SPORTS, AND OPINION
STAMFORD
American THE NEW
Holly Jolly Christmas Classic to be Held Saturday Saturday will be a holly jolly time in Stamford! The first Holly Jolly Christmas Classic, benefiting the children and families of the Noah Project, will be kicking off Saturday, December 7th on the downtown square. The day will kick off with the Santa Chase 5k Run at 10 am. All ages are welcome to enter and participate. At noon, the car show will begin, along with photo opportunities with Santa and food and shopping vendors. The Christmas Decorating Contest will start at 1 pm, with all proceeds from the contest directly benefiting the Noah Project. Also at 1 will be the Christmas Cash Drawing. Those with tickets must be present to win. The Grand Theatre will be hosting a special Christmas movie showing at 2 pm, featuring
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Admission will be free for all. The Car Cruise will begin at 4:30 pm. All are welcome to watch the cruise from the square or along the car cruise route, which will take place down South Swenson. The final event of the night will kick off at 6 pm, with live music by Texas Country artists Finis Smith and Holt Jones, held on the north side of the square. The concert is also free for all who attend. Those who would like to participate in the 5k run or car show can contact the Chamber for more information, or sign up on site, beginning at 9 am. Contact the Chamber at chamberdirector@ stamfordtx.org or 325-773-2411 for more information on any of these events.
THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 11, ISSUE 29 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 98, ISSUE 35 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 114, ISSUE 36
Jan McKeever Announces Candidacy The Route for the 5K will begin and end at the BBVA Compass Bank Building. It will start at 10 AM on December 7th.
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It is with great excitement, but also regret, that I announce my candidacy for Commissioner of Jones County, Precinct 2. I regret that Steve is not here to continue serving the residents of the precinct, but am excited for the same opportunity. I am familiar with the people, roads, bridges, and culverts of the precinct. I have driven every mile of the precinct and am knowledgeable about needs and trouble spots. I have confidence that I can work with and supervise the experienced road crew. My complete focus will be making sure the citizens of the precinct have safe, serviceable roads. I will also serve as a strong voice for you on the Commissioners’ Court. I believe you deserve a representative that puts your concerns and rights first. I will be available and responsive so that your voice can always be heard.
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MARK THE DATE... DEC 7
HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS: The Stamford Chamber of Commerce is hosting the first Holly Jolly Christmas Classic on December 7th on the downtown square, benefiting the children and families of the Noah Project. The Santa Chase 5k Run will kick off the day’s activities at 10 a.m. Food, shopping and music will also be available to enjoy throughout the afternoon and into the evening. A special car cruise will wind the car show events down at 4:30 p.m., followed by music guests Finis Smith and Holt Jones at 6 p.m. Contact the Chamber at chamberdirector@stamfordtx.org or 325773-2411 for more information on any of these events.
DEC 8
BAND CONCERT: Sunday, December 8th, the Stamford ISD band program will present its annual Christmas Concert. The concert will be in the high school auditorium and begin at 3:00 PM. The entire band program will perform with the Beginning Band going first. They will be followed by the Middle School Band and the High School Band. The whole performance will last about an hour. The band concert is a cultural event for our community. Admission is free.
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THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST DEC 14
BOOK SIGNING: Jewellee Jordan Kuenstler will be at the Grand Movie Theater on Saturday, December 14 at 6:00 pm to sign copies of her book, “Heavy Date Over Germany, The Life and Times of B-17 Tail Gunner Ray Perry.” The Grand will be showing the movie, “Midway”, at 7:00 that evening.
DEC 19-21
CHRISTMAS BALL: Texas Cowboys’ Christmas Ball is December 19, 20 & 21. Held in historic Pioneer Hall, 2300 Avenue G, Anson, the ball will feature classic western music, dancing, listening, refreshments and seasonal fellowship. Traditionally held the Thursday, Friday and Saturday before December 25th, this festive family event is open to the public.2019 SCHEDULE: Thursday, December 19 – Ranch Supper, 5:30pm-7:30pm; Michael Martin Murphey & The Rio Grande Band, 8pm-midnight; Friday, December 20 – Jake Hooker & The Outsiders, 8pm-midnight; Saturday, December 21 – Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys, 8pmmidnight (Texas Cowboy Santa appearance with candy for kids). Ticket prices & purchases are at www. ansoncowboyschristmasball. com.
Callie Metler-Smith | Publisher callie@americannewspapers.net Kay Spears | Editor kay@americannewspapers.net Gayle Lovvorn | Office Manager office@americannewspapers.net
Friday 49 | 35
Saturday 61 | 47
Sunday 74 | 53
Monday 68 | 35
Tuesday 49 | 31
Wednesday 54 | 37
Thursday 57 | 37
The weather is provided for you by Country Drug Store. We’re here for you Rain or Shine.
Stamford Hospital in Transition BY KAY SPEARS The full roster of the Stamford Hospital District Board was on hand for the meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 in the Stamford Hospital Board Room, Stamford, Texas. Board Members are Kevin Corzine, Gary Decker, Mark Lundgren, Kevin McCright, Chuck Muehlstein, Wyatt Oakley and Sutton Page. In addition, the following were in attendance: Haskell CEO Chris Strickland, Haskell Chief Operations Officer Michelle Stevens, Haskell Clinic Manager Pam Snow, outgoing Stamford CFO Elizabeth Miller, Stamford Staff including Lab Director Bill Lee, Administrative Assistants Cheyenne Bereuter and Debbie Walters and Billing Manager Nancy Clark. Board President Kevin McCright opened the meeting before Sutton Page gave the invocation and the minutes from the Novem-
Attending the Stamford Hospital District Board meeting on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 were outgoing Stamford CFO Elizabeth Miller, Haskell Clinic Manager Pam Snow, Haskell COO Michelle Stevens and Stamford Administrative Assistant Debbie Walters. ber 13, 2019 meeting were approved. The Financial Report was approved after CFO Miller went over the stats and data in the packet provided to those at the table. During this report Miller brought up the potential change of ownership of the Stamford Clinic and the
SUBSCRIPTION RATES Within Haskell, Jones, and Stonewall Counties: $30 Within Texas: $32 Within the United States: $35 DEADLINE
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move to the Clinic building across the street from the hospital. She stated that the Clinic is making money for the Stamford Hospital District. Strickland stated the partnership between Haskell Memorial and Stamford Hospital Districts has the backing and support of
Hendrick Medical Center. The Clinic Operations Report was presented by Haskell CEO Strickland. He stated the IT department would be operated jointly between Haskell and SHD. SEE HOSPITAL, PG 11
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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
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ICE Dallas Office Opening Its Newest Detention Facility In West Texas The field office director (FOD) for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) for Dallas, Texas, is announcing a new ICE detention facility that’s officially opening during the week of Dec. 9. FOD Marc J. Moore explained that the new ICE facility was actually built in 2010 by the state of Texas to house inmates for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. However, the facility has never been used. “This Bluebonnet Detention Center acts as a win-win for the state and federal governments,” said Moore. ICE needed additional high-quality bed space to accommodate the huge influx of Central Americans who arrived at the U.S. Southern border this year. And Jones County, Texas, now has its nine-year building investment finally put to good use.” Moore oversees ERO operations in 128 counties in North Texas and the state of Oklahoma. BBDC operates from an intergovernmental service agreement (IGSA) between ICE and Jones County, Texas. The facility is managed by Management and Training Corporation (MTC), which will be overseen by ICE officers. The new facility will house about 1,000 ICE detainees as they await the outcomes of their immigration proceedings, or their removal to their countries of origin. IGSAs are contractual agreements made between government agencies. BBDC is a state-of-the-art detention facility with seven video-teleconferencing (VTC) immigration courtrooms,
seven private booths for asylum interviews, tablet technology for detainees, and multiple indoor and outdoor recreation spaces. There are 35 medical personnel on staff to tend to the population’s health concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. BBDC is located in Anson, Texas, about 30 miles north of Abilene, Texas, and about 3 ½ hours west of Dallas. Most of the facility will house men; however, one separate section has been designated to house up to 72 women. BBDC has 25 housing units within about 100,000 square feet. The 42-acre plot is big enough to easily accommodate expansion, if needed in the future. To accommodate the strict standards required in all facilities that house ICE detainees, BBDC required some modifications to bring the facility up to ICE Performance-Based National Detention Standards. “I’m thrilled with my staff for professionally tackling all the operational and redtape hurdles to get BBDC fully ready for move in in such a short amount of time,” said Moore. Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) identifies, arrests and remove aliens who present a danger to national security or are a risk to public safety, as well as those who enter the United States illegally or otherwise undermine the integrity of our immigration laws and our border control efforts. ERO upholds America›s immigration laws at, within and beyond our borders through efficient enforcement and removal
Dallas Field Office Director Marc J. Moore conducted a tour for the media of ICE’s Bluebonnet Detention Center in Anson, Texas on Tuesday, December 3, 2019.
The illegal immigrants detained by ICE at the Anson Bluebonnet Detention Center will sleep in dormitory style bunk beds while going through the process to be allowed to stay in the United States or not. operations. aliens in detention facilities Nationwide, ICE currently located across the United houses more than 52,000 States.
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Haskell Memorial Hospital to Increase Access to Local Specialty Services
Haskell Memorial Hospital on Wednesday entered into an affiliation agreement with Hendrick Health System to strengthen local healthcare services. The partnership, the first of its kind in Texas, will increase access to healthcare specialties, reinforcing Haskell Memorial’s commitment to offer high quality, affordable services close to home. “Healthcare is crucial to rural communities, which are often many miles from urban city centers with higher levels of healthcare,” said Chris Strickland, Haskell Memorial Hospital CEO. “Partnering with Hendrick allows us to provide more specialized care to our communities while reducing the burden of traveling for healthcare.” Hendrick Health System’s support of rural healthcare, together with this alliance helps to ensure that healthcare remains accessible in the region while expanding access to services and expertise from Hendrick providers. The Haskell community already benefits from local access to several Hendrick outreach specialty clinics, including cardiology, orthopedics and ophthalmology. As community health needs are assessed, additional specialties will be added. “Partnerships with our rural providers have been an important part of Hendrick Health System’s heritage, and today we are excited to formalize our long-standing relationship with Haskell Memorial Hospital through this affiliation agreement,” said Brad Holland, president and CEO for Hendrick Health System. “Through this new and meaningful agreement, combined with Haskell Memorial’s recent partnership with Stamford Family Health Center, Hendrick has committed to strengthening the healthcare in both communities through this one affiliation. I applaud the leaders and boards of both institutions for their foresight in understanding the importance of these key relationships.” This affiliation forms on the heels of an inter-local agreement signed last week between Haskell Memorial Hospital and Stamford Hospital District, under which Haskell Memorial will manage the Stamford Family Health Center. The collaboration of these three organizations helps secure the future of rural healthcare in this region, and serves as a model for other rural healthcare systems that might be considering strategic partnerships to help them stay afloat in an uncertain rural healthcare climate. The affiliation with Hendrick is effective immediately. Patients of Haskell Memorial Hospital and its clinics will experience no change to their visits except for the availability of additional services. Schedules and services offered will be announced at a later date. ABOUT HASKELL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Founded in 1939, Haskell Memorial Hospital is Critical Access Hospital in Haskell, Texas. The facility offers inpatient care, a swing bed program, radiology, physical therapy, cardiac rehab, lab services, an emergency department, hospital clinic and an urgent care walk-in clinic.
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Stamford Band Presents Christmas Concert Sunday, December 8th, the Stamford ISD band program will present its annual Christmas Concert. The concert will be in the high school auditorium and begin at 3:00 PM. The entire band program will perform with the Beginning Band going first. They will be followed by the Middle School Band and the High School Band. The whole performance will last about an hour. The band concert is a cultural event for our community. Admission is free. Our concerts are special events because they allow us to showcase our band program from beginning to end. The concerts are handled in a way that meets special criteria with UIL and TEA. Because of that, students who are academically ineligible may participate without penalty to themselves or the school. Our concerts also are aligned with the Music TEKS so that every moment of the event is meeting state standards. We invite the general public to attend this cultural event of the holiday season here in Stamford.
VIP MENU DEC 9-13 Monday Ham & Beans, Salad, Cornbread, Fried Okra, Apple Cobbler Tuesday Tamales, Salad, Hominy, Jell-O Wednesday Cod Fish, Corn, Beets, Hush Puppies, Pink Salad
Thursday Hamburger Steak with Onions & Gravy, Baked Potatoes, Salad, Chocolate Pudding Friday Chicken Pot Pie, Salad, Strawberries
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OBITUARIES
Don Roger Haynes
Albino “Al” Rangel
Don Roger Haynes 80, of Stamford, passed away Saturday, November 23, 2019 in Munday, Texas. Graveside service was held Wednesday, November 27 in the Fairview Cemetery Tuxedo, Texas with Pastor John Erwin officiating. Don’s family received friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 26 at Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home in Stamford. Don was born December 18, 1938 in Stamford. He is the son of the late Hollis and Hattie Rae Ferguson Haynes. He graduated from Stamford High School in 1957, and received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Economics from Texas Tech University in 1961. He married Judy Carlton July 1, 1961 in Tuxedo. Throughout his life Don lived in various towns but always considered Stamford his home. He was able to move back to Stamford when he began working for West Texas Utilities (now AEP) where he worked for many years until his retirement. Don was a past member of the Lions Club. Don was a faithful member of St. John’s United Methodist Church where he was always willing to help with anything that needed to be done. He enjoyed trains, riding as well as movies and documentaries. Don’s true passion was genealogy. He has assisted many people in finding and being re-acquainted with their family members. He also spent many hours updating and mapping our local cemeteries. Don is preceded in death by his parents and one grandson Jacob Haynes. Family left to cherish his memories are his wife Judy Haynes of Stamford; sons Danny Haynes and wife Stephanie of Richmond, Texas and Bryan Haynes of Dallas; one sister Hollis Rae Boyd of Austin; Grandchildren Patrick Tuley of Houston, Ashely Tuley of Oklahoma City, OK, and Madison Haynes of Dallas as well as several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to The Treasures of Grace Prison Ministry in care of Sue McCurley, 1508 North Avenue G, Haskell, Texas 79521.
Albino “Al” Rangel, 95, of Stamford, TX died Monday, December 2, 2019. Visitation was Thursday, December 5, 2019, 5 to 7 p.m. at Tankersley Funeral Home. Funeral Services were at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 6, 2019 at the Trinity Church with Dr. Robert Wingrove officiating. Burial followed in Highland Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Tankersley Funeral Home. Al was born January 2, 1924 in Sinton, TX where he attended school and lived until age 16 when he moved to Stamford, TX. He was the only child of Cleophas and Seberiana Cerrano Rangel. Al’s parents both passed away while he was a young child, leaving him to be reared by his aunts and uncles. Al married Gregoria Casaz on August 9, 1941 in Stamford, TX at St. Ann’s Catholic Church. Al worked at the Stamford Memorial Hospital for 20 years and for Vernon Lovvorn in his farming operation. Al was a man who believed in starting his day early and spending his time working; even when on a walker he would weed eat the grass in his yard. He enjoyed mowing grass and requested the purchase of a new mower when he was well into his 80’s, which he did not get! He was an avid fan of cowboy movies with his favorite being Rio Lobo and his most sought-after stars were John Wayne and Tom Selleck. His also enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboy’s football games. Al enjoyed his family gatherings, with the final one being the Saturday after Thanksgiving. He was a member of Trinity Church. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years, Gregoria Rangel in November of 2006; and an infant daughter, Lydia. He leaves his loving memories to be cherished by his; son, Lupe Rangel and wife Bessie of Stamford, TX, son, Frank Rangel and wife Rosa of Romeoville, IL, daughter, Martha Ruiz and husband Victor of Cedar Hill, TX, daughter, Soila Rangel of Stamford, TX, son Luis Rangel and wife Aurora of Abilene, TX, daughter, Francine Kamman and husband Alvin of Stamford, TX, and son Victor Rangel of Stamford, TX; 13 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.tankersleyfuneralhome.com.
The First United Methodist Church of Anson Food Pantry had a true Thanksgiving blessing with Spring Market of Anson, Manager Jordan Gomez, donating hams for our clients at our November distribution. Also, we are so thankful for the Food Bank of West Central Texas. The First United Methodist Church of Anson has been so blessed by the support for our Bazaar and Turkey Dinner. Thanks to all who participated by attending, helping and donating including Jeannie Free of Smiles Restaurant, Meals on Wheels, Jordan Gomez of Spring Market, Sherron Torres, and the turkey donor.
Well, I do hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and stayed safe and well. The weather was an up and down problem, but I guess everyone that lives in Texas can expect that and live with it. Since I did not have a news article last week I have to get some from a couple of weeks ago. The Hobby Club met on the 21 with Dorothy Toney, Mittie Dunham, Cheryl Hertel, Tomzie Steele, Joan Doss, Nan Sublett, Anita Dozier and Sybil Kendrick present. The ladies discussed the results of the Club Bazaar and were delighted with the turnout. They discussed ways to make things a little better for the coming year, was very pleased with the many vendors and their ideas. It was decided this was the best Bazaar the Club has ever had, and we certainly appreciate all the folks that came out and supported the Bazaar. The ladies then discussed the Christmas Party coming up on the first week in December. Following a few more discussion for the coming year, the meeting adjourned. Nan showed the ladies how to make a cute Christmas decoration. She brought enough supplies that each lady could make her own decoration. Thanks, Nan, for the cute decoration. Sybil, Mittie and Anita served delicious refreshments and Cheryl won the door prize. Our Thanksgiving week was darkened with the loss of our dear brother, Virgil Vahlenkamp, 87,of Denton. The funeral was held on Monday at the Faith Lutheran Church and burial in the Old Glory Cemetery. Virgil grew up in this community and was baptized, confirmed and married in the Lutheran Church and wanted his final departure in the same church. He served in the army and worked for the Lone Star Gas Company most of his life. He is survived by his wife Geneva of Denton, a daughter, Brenda of Alabama, three sons, Virgil Jr. and Charles of Denton, John
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of Colorado, nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, three sisters, Anita Dozier, Verlene Corzine, and Betty Weise, an Aunt Corene Lowack, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Herbert and Eugene (Gus) Vahlenkanp. Daughter, Marcie spent Sunday night with her mother, Anita. Daughter, Susan, visited with her Mother on Monday. Geneva Vahlenkamp and Charles of Denton visited with me on Tuesday. On Tuesday evening I enjoyed the holiday celebration in the home of Norman Dozier and all the family and friends in their beautiful home near Noodle. A great evening of food and visiting. Spending a few days with Bernice Rhoads were her family, Sherry and David Breeding of Amarillo, Tom Lee and Angie Rhoads and Adam from Kilgore, Rachel and Nathan Ciomperlik from Hearne, and Sara and Taylor Castleberry from Lewisville. They also had their Christmas at this time. A great time with plenty of food, fun and gifts. Kenny Spitzer had a full house of relatives on Thanksgiving day with Jim and Kathleen Seal of Clyde, Jeff Letz of Abilene, Craig and Leset Letz of Borger, Weldon and Belinda Spitzer of Tulsa, OK, Amanda Settle from Illinois, Ann Gimlen from Tulsa, Jerry Wienke of Lubbock, Bill Wienke of Phoenix, Leslie Wienke from College Station, Judy Wilkins from Lubbock, Tye and Susie Spitzer, Schevy and Shea Humphrey and Kynlee all of Newcastle, C
Elizabeth J and Courtney Hanze Martin from and Macey Moran, Kolton of Throckand Erica Presmorton, Kyle ton, Kase and Spitzer from Kynber from Nocona, Wade Cisco, Wesley Spitzer from and Jackie Weatherford, Martin, Eli and Chico and OLD GLORY NEWS Shayle Martin Kaylee Acosta, and Jamie, all Jaden and of Aspermont, By Anita Dozier Jackson from Chris and Sara Stamford, J Chamberlain, T Spitzer from Austin, and Aidan, Bailey, Raylen, Lanyn, Todd and Stacy Spitzer, and Evan of Ft Worth and Drake and Kelly from OG. Ethan and Bethanie Martin, Douglas and Debbie Holly, Hayden and Bo from Vahlenkamp spent ThanksSwenson. They all enjoyed a giving Day in Abilene with fish fry and all the trimmings. her family in the home of Dale and Carm Letz had her daughters, Cassidy and their family over for the Joe Mack Tomlin. On Friday Thanksgiving celebrating on they had Thanksgiving at their home near OG with his Saturday. Enjoying the meal and fun time were Micah family, Robert and Sabrina Vahlenkamp, Bailey, Berkley, and Lacey New, Darbee, Laynee, and Hazelee from Rylie, Damond, and CJ from Haskell and Terry and Anson, and Robert and Pam Laramie Letz and Brody of Vahlenkamp, Levi, Savana, Sagerton. Isaiah, Wesley and Ashton Having Thanksgiving on of Stamford. Saturday were the family I spent Thanksgiving of Glen and Helen Pierce. on Friday in the home of Enjoying all the good food daughter, Rita Stephens, and fun with Nanna and in Abilene with my family. Granddaddy were Jami There were 22 present and Wilde of Knox City, Kara all family members were and Wayne Briggs and Crete present with exception of of Haskell, Matthew Pierce a granddaughter Sara and from Stamford Lake, Wes her family, Petty Officer and Tracy Pierce of Nocona, J G Heidenheimer, Zach Kambryn Pierce and friend, and Ryan from Pensacola, Carson Rowlett from Tech, FL, and Chris Baldree. We Kelsey and Corby Covalt missed them. We all had a from Norman, OK,Kade and wonderful time. Sara Lowack from AsperThe James and Marilyn mont, and Kim and Bobby Martin family had their Thanksgiving celebration on Lowack and Kelly from OG. Kambryn, Carson and Kelly Saturday at the OG Community Center on Saturday. spent Saturday night with Lanham and Holly Martin Nanna and Granddaddy. from Moran were hosts Danny and Phyllis Letz to the event. Present were had a big Thanksgiving Jeffrey Martin from Lipan, dinner on Friday evening for Gerald and Harley Williams family and guests. Attending were Eric Conner from and Capri of San Angelo,
Wichita Falls, Albert and Jana Hinkle and his Mom, Anita Hinkle and great granddaughter, Remmington all of Abilene. Casey and Emery Letz, Madisyn, Rylan, and Cale of Stamford. Visiting with Danny and Phyllis Letz on Sunday were Leon and Sharon Langley from San Angelo. Several members gathered at the Old Glory Lodge Hall for their monthly meeting. Doug Vahlenkamp called the meeting to order and led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance to both flags. A moment of silence was held in memory of a member who recently passed, Virgil Vahlenkamp of Denton. Members receiving 60 year pins are Kraig Kupatt of Sagerton and Laural Jones of Beeville. Receiving 50 year pins are Robert Carpenter from Gray, TN, Kathleen Miller from Stamford, and Ronnie Fred Teichelman from Amarillo. No reporter was appointed at this time. Winners of the prizes donated by the Grand Lodge were Brenda Vahlenkamp and Clara Richards. Gladys Vahlenkamp won the door prize. Couple present with anniversary in December are Don and Pat Pyron. The meal for next month will be soup and desserts furnished by the members. Following the meeting the group enjoyed games and a meal of ham and all the trimmings and yummy desserts. Virginia Douglas of Abilene visited with her Dad
and brother Fred Douglas and Frederick Douglas in OG on Wednesday. Just a reminder of the Senior Citizens Dance at the Old Glory Community Center on Monday, Dec. 9 from 7 P M until 10 P M with a live band and snacks will be furnished. Everyone is invited to attend. Thought for the week: “There are a terrible lot of lies going around the world, and the worst of it is that half of them are true.� Happy Birthday wishes go to Donnice Jennings, Karen Lehrmann, Randy Lehrmann, Marie Zell, Tamera Schonerstedt, Haley Rhoads, Ty Rhoads, Morgan Earthman, Tabitha Schonerstedt, Buddy Letz, Aimee Bowman, Gerry McDowell, Terry McDowell, Hunter Teichelman, Katrina Jansky, Philip Quade, Jesse Macias, Philip Clark, Jamie Harms, Eustaquio Castro, Carrie Earthman, James Branch, Beaty Bryant, Polly Frazier, Wesley Martin, Judy Wilkins, Herbert Williams, Oleta Cornelius, Kaye Swink, Amber Lackey, Lisa Schonerstedt, Trance Rosenquist, Virginia Douglas, Justin Griggs, Gail Ray, Kellye Teichelman, Bill Tabor, Callie Smith, Jimlee Baucum, andTracy Kuenstler. We wish you many more. Anniversary greetings go to Ed and Jan Wolsch and Ivy and Kaye Swink. Have a wonderful day.
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The paw print
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Bulldogs Schedule Thursday, December 5, 2019 At Winters Tournament Varsity Boys Friday, December 6, 2019 At Winters Tournament JV Boys and Varsity Boys Saturday, December 7, 2019 At Winters Tournament JV Boys and Varsity Boys Sunday, December 8, 2019 Optional open gym 3:00pm
Go Bulldogs! Stamford 44, Clyde 50 Despite leading 21 to 19 at the half, Stamford came up short on Tuesday evening against Clyde. Clyde’s surge in the 2nd half gave them the victory. Leading the scoring was Austin Brewer with 27 points. D’Marcus Barber had 14, Rylee Sconce 2 and Lane Patton had a free throw. Stamford 13 8 16 7--44 Clyde 10 9 13 18--50
Stamford 61 Archer City 54 The Bulldogs got off to a great start in the game vs. Archer City on Tuesday, Dec. 3 and never looked back. They outscored AC 36 to 25 in the first half and held off a 4th quarter scoring blast from the Wildcats in the 4th quarter. Leading the scoring for Stamford was Austin Brewer with 20 points, Trace Price with 13, and D’Marcus Barber with 12. Others contributing were Lane Patton and Keyven Mueller with 5 each, Stephon Johnson with 4 and Coy Lefevre with 2. Stamford 17 19 12 13--61 Archer City 12 13 8 21--54
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Hegar Transfers Excess Revenue Into Rainy Day, Highway Funds Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Nov. 25 announced the transfer of $3.33 billion into the State Highway Fund and into the Economic Stabilization Fund, commonly known as the Rainy Day Fund. Each fund received more than $1.66 billion, or 50% of the total transfer. The transfer amounts are based on crude oil and natural gas production tax revenues in excess of 1987 collections. If either tax generates more revenue than the 1987 threshold, an amount equal to 75% of the excess is transferred, according to an agency news release. In November 2014, voters approved a constitutional amendment allocating at least half of these severance taxes to the Rainy Day Fund, with the remainder going to the State Highway Fund for use on non-toll highway construction, maintenance and right-of-way acquisition. PATRICK APPOINTS COMMITTEE Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick on Nov. 26 announced his appointment of a committee to review the history and procedures for the placement of art and other decor in the historic Texas Senate Chamber. Sen. Bryan Hughes, R-Mineola, will serve as chairman of the committee. Members appointed include Sens. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston; Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels; Borris Miles, D-Houston; Beverly Powell, D-Burleson; Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown; and Kirk Watson, D-Austin. According to the State Preservation Board, the chamber’s two brass chandeliers have been in place since 1890 and 15 historical Texas paintings were hung in the room before 1915. Also, a portrait of Stephen F. Austin by an unknown artist behind the lieutenant governor’s desk dates from circa 1836, making it one of the oldest pieces in the Capitol.
CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS
Ed Sterling
In the announcement, Patrick mentioned that in 2015, he resumed the annual practice of placing a Christmas tree in the historic chamber after many years with no tree. DISASTER FUNDS: PLAN SET Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush on Nov. 21 announced the release of the state’s action plan detailing the distribution and eligible uses of some $4.3 billion in Community Development Block Grant Mitigation funds. The funds, coming from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, are to be used to assist Texas communities with mitigation projects, addressing risks within the areas impacted Hurricane Harvey and floods in 2015 and 2016. “Hurricane Harvey was a storm of historic proportions with more than $100 billion in property damage and immeasurable disruption to the lives of Texans,” Bush said. “Many communities in Texas have faced repeated flooding...With this action plan, the General Land Office will prioritize large-scale projects to maximize available infrastructure funding to improve the resiliency of Texas homes, businesses and infrastructure from future storms.” GRANT TO ENHANCE LIFELINE Dr. Courtney N. Phillips, Texas Health and Human Services executive commissioner, on Nov. 26 announced the agency is receiving a two-year grant of more than $3 million from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s State
Capacity Building Initiative. The goal is to increase the state’s capacity to provide free, confidential emotional support and services to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Grant funds will be used to assist Texas call centers in answering more calls from residents, reducing wait times and connecting them to local treatment facilities, support and nearby crisis or emergency service centers, Phillips said. Health and Human Services plans to contract with four local mental health authorities to implement the grant in March 2020: The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, Integral Care (Travis County), MHMR of Tarrant County and Emergence Health Network in El Paso County. Antitrust claims resolved Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Nov. 25 announced that his office has reached a settlement with T-Mobile resolving the state’s antitrust claims against the proposed merger of mobile wireless telecommunications service providers Sprint and T-Mobile. According to an agency news release, the agreement is designed to prevent the New T-Mobile from increasing prices for wireless services on Texans for five years after the merger is complete. Also, it commits the New T-Mobile to: —Give all Texas customers access to T-Mobile limited data rate plans at a cost far below what is currently offered in the industry; —Commit to provide 5G wireless broadband coverage to areas where most Texans live, including most Texans living in rural portions of the state within the next three years and to expand that 5G coverage dramatically within the next six years; and —Offer Texas residents that are currently employed by Sprint and T-Mobile substantially similar employment with the New T-Mobile.
Starting and Finishing I’m not much of an athlete. If you’ve known me any length of time, that’s not exactly breaking news. I like to think that I have several talents in life, but athletic talent is not on that list. My athletic exploits peaked with some competent right field play in Little League, a handful of successful quarterback sneaks in junior high football (to be clear, I was third string), and trying my best to not finish last in junior cross country and track meets (occasionally, I succeeded). But on December 7, I’m running a 5K. Okay, “running“ might be a strong word. I’ll be “participating” in it. You see, the Stamford Chamber of Commerce is launching a new Christmas event, the “Holly Jolly Christmas Classic.” Stamford has struggled
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ESSAYS FROM WEST OF 98 James M. Decker over the years to maintain a good community Christmas celebration, so our community members are trying something different and creative. Santa will arrive on a classic car and then there will be pictures with Santa for the kids and a car show for the adults. There will be shopping and a cash drawing. The Grand Theatre will be showing “Christmas Vacation” for free. The day will conclude
with a car cruise and a concert. And oh yeah, that 5K. The day kicks off with the “Mayor’s Santa Chase 5K.” If you follow me on Facebook, you might have seen the video of me promoting the race by running on a treadmill in a Santa suit. Several larger cities like Abilene and Lubbock have an annual race tagged as the “Mayor’s,” so that the mayor can encourage health and fitness in the community. We want to do the same thing in Stamford as we move forward with our new Christmas event as an annual celebration. It’s no secret that American society has widespread health and fitness issues. It is estimated that 33% of American adults and 17% of children are classified as obese. Obesity-related health issues contribute to hundreds of thousands of deaths in America each year. Research indicates that healthcare costs
associated with obesity exceed those associated with smoking. But it’s not just obesity. Some of us are just flat out of shape. We’re not as strong as we should be and we get winded too easily. As we all get older, good fitness helps us live longer and healthier, with a better quality of life. It also helps us more easily overcome physical challenges associated with aging. I want to see Stamford’s people live longer, healthier lives and that starts with me. I may never be an excellent athlete, but I can be fit. It’s going to be a challenge. Exercising is not natural for me. I’m terribly flat footed. My mind fights against me the whole time I work out. I have to battle the mental urges that tell me to just quit. But I’m going to get through that and I hope I can encourage some of you to do the same. If you are around Stamford on Saturday, I hope
you’ll join us at our new Christmas celebration. It’ll be the first of its kind in town and we intend to grow it from this inaugural effort. I also hope you’ll join my family and me in the Mayor’s Santa Chase 5K. If you don’t think you can do it, just look to me as your example. I may have to walk for 75% of the race, but I’m going to do it. I won’t be first, and I may finish dead last, but one thing is certain: I will finish it. 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.
ROTARY CLUB NEWS Mindy West, history teacher at Stamford High School, takes a tour with a group each summer to some special places of interest. This past summer, the group planned a historic tour to Italy and visited Rome, Pompeii, Naples and Florence. She had prepared a slide presentation of some of the highlights of her trip. While in Rome, they had the opportunity to visit many of the churches and other historical sites. They travelled through the country to tour Pompeii and on to Naples and Florence. She said that she has now had the opportunity to visit every American Cemetery where our soldiers are buried in Europe. Being a history teacher, her programs are so interesting because she always includes much of the historical significance of each place she visits.
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 11:00
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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Don’t Miss the Moments This past Thanksgiving weekend I spent time in San Antonio with my family and, besides the long drive there and back really being the only negative, the trip was a great time to catch up and have some fun with family. I was even able to just sit down, relax and play some games with my mother, sister and THOUGHTS FROM nephew just like always as well as catch up on things UNDER THE CAP about life in general. As a result, we were able to create Will McClure some more lasting memories while we had the chance (even my dog Scout was able to go as well and needless to say she was quite tired when we came back home!). In the rush of daily life and the constant need to jump from one thing to the next, it can be easy to miss the good moments of life and as the years go by and we get older, it can seem like the days go by way too fast. I personally could not believe that the first half of the school year is nearly over as it seems like just yesterday the year had only started. For kids, it can seem like things take forever, but the anticipation and patience levels are not really set yet so it is understandable. In addition, with the rise of technology and “instant gratification,” it can be very easy to lose track of time and miss life’s little moments. Now more than ever, we need to be able to slow down every once and a while and appreciate these moments while they are available to us before we miss the chance to make a lasting memory. A good example of this outside of family is just showing some kind of support for the community at large. It could be helping make the community a better place by helping clean up areas or even attending an event held by our youth to show that we are supportive of their hard work, which will in turn encourage them to keep moving forward in what they love to do. On a personal example, I attended the last show of the high school production of Clue for the students of Sweetwater where the kids showed their passion for the stage and hearing the praise from their parents and teachers surely meant the world to them. On the other side, I even joined many of my fellow teachers to dance to the song “Thriller” during one of our last pep rallies to not only be supportive of the team by being a “team player” but also have some fun in the process. The moments did not have to be major, but they would have been sorely missed had I not taken the opportunities given. Life can be pretty crazy at times and may seem like all we do is get up, go to work, come home, eat dinner, go to sleep and get up the next morning to do it all over again. As a result, we tend to put on figurative “blinders” to our immediate world around us and end up missing out on life’s little moments that make everything worth it in the end. While we will always have to push forward with this daily grind, there needs to be times where we stop and pay attention to the things our family, friends and community have for us. I can all but guarantee all of you out there reading this have that one event, family gathering or even simply declining to meet with a friend that you wish you took the time to do, but were too busy with life. Let that feeling be something that motivates you instead of depressing you and resolve to not miss the moments when they arise. Life can go by fast, so be able to tap on the breaks every once in a while. Until next time, dear reader, my cap’s off to you!
Terlingua’s Female Entrepreneur I was on one of the dusty roads in Terligua’s ghost town riding in Mimi Webb Miller’s Checker Cab when a young girl flagged us down, ran over to Mimi and told her in an excited voice, “We’ve just found a house here. We’re moving from Austin next month.” There’s a reason Terlingua is known as Austin Far West. That morning I stood in a long line of people waiting to get a bite of breakfast at a little walk-up eating place. It does a thriving business. Mimi owns it. She grew up in Wichita Falls. “When I came out here as an adult in my 20’s I went back home and asked my daddy why we never came out here when I was growing up. There’s a vortex here that sucks you in.” She came out here, fell in love with a Mexican man and set up housekeeping on a ranch south of Lajitas and had 2 children. She became quite popular in the remote mountain country that is becoming more popular with Texans. When Governor Ann Richards came to the Big Bend
to inaugurate the Wild And Scenic River portion of the Rio Grande, Mimi went down the river with her and had fun. “I’m John Tower’s niece,” says Mimi. “After that river ride, I decided I’m no longer a Republican. The Democrats go on the river, they get drunk and then talk politics. I’m changing parties.” She says when she first got to Terlingua there were simple pleasures. “You could fish out here for catfish with ivory soap or something called hellgrammites which are dragon fly larvae and they just look awful. But fish love them. That was fun.“ Mimi is a little concerned about Terlingua’s growth. “It’s a little scary because it’s such a fragile area. We lack water and trash has become a problem. Who would have thought trash disposal would become so
important down here?” She has been in Terlingua 40 years and has found a lot of business opportunities. “My coffee shop is called Espresso Y Poco Mas. At first it was just a little window you walked up to and placed your order. But now we have a patio outside with tables and chairs and our menu has grown. I have a new place called Taqueria al Milagro. It’s a real elevated taco stand. It’s not expensive. You bring your own beer. We furnish ice. And then I have La Posada Milagro, a 7-room motel.” Mimi owns property in Mexico. “If you drive to
TUMBLEWEED SMITH
BIRTHDAYS DEC 10 - Callie Metler DEC 11 - Tracy Kuenstler DEC 12 - Jeanie Mueller DEC 13 - Deborah Huggins Know someone who is having a birthday? Please remember to call us at 325-773-5550 and let us know!
Lajitas, I own the mountain on the left. It’s about 6,300 feet high with a lot of waterfalls, one of them 40 feet. It’s the best drinking water in the state of Chihuahua. I actually built 2 duplexes overlooking the river and that little village across from Lajitas. I take people on tours into Mexico.” She also has other enterprises that require her to be in California. She is a casting director and finds people to do movies and TV commercials. “Some are actors from the Screen Actors Guild and sometimes they’re just regular folks. You remember when Cindy Crawford was younger and drank the Pepsi with short shorts on? That was mine. And I’ve supplied talent for Super Bowl commercials.”
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HOSPITAL: Continued From Page 2
Classifieds
HELP WANTED
Sagebrush Living Center is accepting applications for Direct Support Staff. Contact Karen Wolsch or Doug Stanley. Contact Kathy Phillips at 325773-2791 at Sagebrush Living Center, 1101 Columbia St., Stamford, TX. 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 Stamford Residence & Rehab Center Is Now Hiring Seeking motivated employees filled with integrity who are compassionate, dependable, proficient, team players looking to serve our loving residents and fellow co-workers. Open positions: PRN LVN, CNA, Laundry. FT CNA and Kitchen Aide. Apply today at: 1003 Columbia, Stamford, Texas 79553, 325-773-3671
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Stamford American welcomes letters to the editor on any subject. Letters to the Editor will be published with the name of the writer, should be limited to 300 words, signed, and should include a telephone number for verification. The editor reserves the right to edit any letter for any reason and to reject letters for publication for any reason. Letters deemed libelous and/or not for the public good will be rejected. Letters to the editor reflect the opinion of the writer and not necessarily that of The Stamford American.
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.
He brought up the current calendar and the discussion resulted in the plan that the Stamford Clinic would not be closed if the two Nurse Practitioners wanted the same days off. This would be addressed soon and, if need be, staff from Haskell would cover those positions in Stamford in the future. His goal is to have the Clinic open 7 days per week. The actual holiday list for closure is New Years, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Under New District Business it was approved to hire two people to cover the two employees going on maternity leave at Country Elegance. It was approved to have Dee Haddock removed from the Resolution for Banking with Chris Strickland and Michelle Stevens to be added. Any action of Building Plans for Diagnostics was tabled for a future meeting. The Diagnostic Lab is now in what was the operating room and a plan to move it to the North Wing of the hospital building, or the old (SWIC) Stamford Walk-in Clinic will be the topic of discussion. The Board went into Executive Session with no action taken and the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 7:45am.
8603 FM707 TRUBY RANCH Fantastic Home w/ a pool 126± acres...$975,000 HWY 277 Hawley Faith over Fear home, barn w/horse stalls 51± Acres!.............$460,000 1502 Compton Stamford 3/2/2 Ranch home 1.6± AC!......Reduced! $126,500 1105 New Hope Road 2/2 brick Great Location!................... IN CONTRACT 703 Columbia Nice 3 bedroom 2 bath on a corner lot w 2 car garage!......$72,000 New! 804 Wells 3/1 w CH/A, tiled walk-in Shower and covered porch!..$67,500 716 E Oliver 4 bedroom/ 2 baths quiet area..............................................$68,900 1207 HUDSON 3 bedroom, 1 bath in a good location!..............................$49,900 New 1315 Hudson Rd 3/1 w CHA Great location!................................$39,900 712 E Vanderbilt Gorgeous 1910 2 story Victorian home...... IN CONTRACT 519 Commercial Ave, Anson- 3/1 Rock home w Metal shop...............$49,000 Sagerton 3 bd 1 bath with fireplace and out buildings on corner lot!........$35,000
COMMERCIAL
1303 Swenson - 25,000 sq ft building 1631 17th St, Anson - over 4,000 sq. ft, restaurant equip....... IN CONTRACT 901 Commercial ANSON- 12,600 Sq. Ft. parking lot, HWY Frontage$175,000 The Hamlin Elevator, 423 E Lake Drive, Hamlin
FARM & RANCH
FISHER COUNTY
480± AC SE of Roby Tank, water well 170± Ac SE of Rotan Pasture SOLD Paved Rd frontage IN CONTRACT
CALLAHAN COUNTY
1,015± AC Great Sock Farm or Hay farm SOLD 10 ac Old Peanut Co-op Property
HASKELL COUNTY
126 ac cult. N.380 Rule 227± AC N of Rule Good combo place Pasture and cultivation! Great Hunting! 160± AC – The Kittley Irrigated Farm Northwest of Rule! SOLD 271± AC SE of Weinert Dry land farm w/ pasture, tanks and creek! 619± AC N of Lake Stamford pasture and tanks!
JONES COUNTY
NEW 377 ac on Hwy 277 Pasture/Cult. Coop water 1,764± Ac Near Lueders Great Hunting! 323 Ac Creek, Cultivation and Hunting! 663± AC Great combo place w/ fence, pens, water well and tank 20± AC Near Ft. Phantom OAK TREES w/ Electric and rural water! 220± AC Cultivation on California Creek and US HWY 6 RD Frontage 247± Stock Farm SOLD 389± AC Cultivation, Rural water and Electric N of Merkle 160± AC south of Avoca IN CONTRACT 139± AC- Farrington Cotton Farm Prime Cultivation 50± AC Cultivated farm 230± AC Ft. Phantom River Ranch, Excellent Hunting! 782± AC N of Neinda Mostly Cultivated farm 45± Acres Right outside of Town
KENT COUNTY
925± AC-Panther Canyon Ranch-Native pasture w/ food plots, springs on Panther Canyon and Croton Creek on the north Boundary!
SHACKELFORD COUNTY
440± AC North of Abilene Cultivation and pasture w/ Spring, Rural Water and 3 tanks! 140 Country Cove Nice Brick 3/2 home with Fireplace & huge back yard! List Price $164,900 Blacksmith Shop, Art Studio and 3 Bedroom Home in Albany List Price $82,500
STEPHENS COUNTY
85± AC Native pasture w/ house
STONEWALL COUNTY
330± ac cult. & pasture, good stock farm 5,900± AC- Seven Diamond L Canyon Ranch two creeks and salt fork river 2,082± -AC- Double View RanchSpectacular views, River, 4/3 Home and Barns, rural water! 800± AC - White Ghost River Ranch - Salt Fork of the Brazos! Views of the River Canyon! 320± AC – Hall River Ranch River Frontage w/ 2 story home and additional acres for lease! 330± AC- Great View of Double Mtns. w/ scenic deep canyons, large neighbors, hunting! 130± AC- Youngers 130 Good Cultivation and great Hunting! 332± AC – Canyon West Ranch Great Views! Water, Electric & Secluded! 133± AC S of Swenson Brushy w/ HWY 380 Frontage Electricity on site! 1,455± Acres Base of the Double Mountains! 165± Acres All pasture, Great Hunting!
TAYLOR COUNTY
5± Acres Off of HWY 351 No Restrictions Reduced $32,500 Taylor Ridge Estates- 20-80 Acre rural tracts Call for info. 707 Ranch 10-12± tracts SOLD 20± Acres White Mines Road Creek, Hunting, No Restrictions $140,000
THROCKMORTON COUNTY
460± AC Morning Star Game Ranch High fenced turnkey w/ Hunting Ranch 160± AC Cultivation and Pasture w/ 3BR Home west of Woodson
DICKENS COUNTY
1,450± AC Fantastic Hunting, Shinnery, Large Stock Tank
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
12 DECEMBER 6, 2019
JONES COUNTY ARRESTS 11/24-11/30 11/24/2019, 3:26:00 AM Krystale Marie Rodriguez, Driving While Intoxicated 2nd MA 11/24/2019, 7:11:00 PM Melvin Lee Hampton, Poss Marij <2oz MB 11/24/2019, 10:51:00 PM Bobby Joe Phillips, Poss Cs Pg 1 <1g FB 11/25/2019, 1:10:00 AM Leonard Alvin Mahan, Unl Carrying Weapon MA 11/25/2019, 1:13:00 AM Douglas Allen Boling, Unl Carrying Weapon MA 11/25/2019, 7:08:00 PM John Allen Shinn, Driving W/Lic Inv W/Prev Conv/Susp/W/O Fin Res MB, Driving While Intoxicated 3rd Or More F3 11/25/2019, 9:22:00 PM Dimetria Lashaun Styles, Criminal Trespass MB 11/25/2019, 11:03:00 PM Chris Martinez, Taylor County Warrant#2-1202-19-Evading Arrest/Detention 11/26/2019, 9:25:00 AM Travis Lynn Dean, Theft Prop >=$100<$750 MB 11/26/2019, 11:38:00 AM Lyle Johnathan Griffith, Poss Marij <2oz MB 11/26/2019, 11:48:00 AM Christopher Kyle Woolf, Stonewall Co. Warrant 0012589667 Child Support 11/27/2019, 7:11:00 AM Elizabeth Jane Walker, Poss Marij <2oz MB 11/27/2019, 7:20:00 AM Casey Ryan Stiewert, Poss Marij <2oz MB 11/27/2019, 9:34:00 AM Ruben V Reyes Jr, Court Commit 11/27/2019, 1:16:00 PM John Pierce, No Insurance MC 11/28/2019, 2:11:00 AM Bronson Joseph Serasio, Unl Poss Firearm By Felon F3 11/29/2019, 8:08:00 PM Jennifer Beth Larsen, Driving While Intoxicated 2nd MA 11/29/2019, 9:24:00 PM Bryan Tharp, Driving While Intoxicated 3rd Or More F3 11/30/2019, 5:16:00 AM Jacquline Maye Villarreal, Driving While Intoxicated W/Child Under 15 YOA, FS , Abandon Endanger Child Criminal Negligence FS
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Substandard Rental Properties Discussed BY KAY SPEARS The Stamford City Council met on Monday, December 2, 2019 at Stamford City Hall. Mayor James Decker opened the proceedings before giving the invocation and leading those assembled in the Pledge of Allegience. The Councilmen at the meeting were Robert Wingrove, Ken Roberson, Jimmy Doan and Paul Wright along with City Manager Alan Plumlee, City Secretary Kim Bryant and City Attorney Raymond Hollagaugh. CFO Karen Lou Graham and Chief of Police Darwin Huston were present in the audience. No one was scheduled to make a public comment and the Consent Agenda was approved. These items consisted of the minutes of the last Regular City Council Meeting on November 18, 2019 and the following entity property demolitions. Demolition of entity property located at Lot 2, Block 134, College Heights Addition, Town of Stamford, Jones County, Texas (907 Boulevard). Demolition of entity property located at Lots 3, 4 and
W ½ Lot 5, Block 18, Hanna East Side Addition, Town of Stamford, Jones County, Texas (710 E. Moran). The Council moved on to the Regular Agenda, which had no item withdrawn from the Consent Agenda. Mayor Decker introduced the workshop to discuss an ordinance regulating substandard structures used as rental properties. He stated City Manager Plumlee, Police Chief Huston and Code Enforcer Manuel Ramos attended a meeting on Substandard Structures sponsored by the Council of Governments (COG) in Abilene, Texas in August. His concern is when landlords are renting houses that are uninhabitable and taking advantage of the poor. Decker went on to say there are several ways to make sure this does not happen including having an annual fee for rental properties, inspect the property when it changes renters, property inspection when the name on the water/sewer bill is changed or the owner pays a fee when a new tenant moves in. Plumlee stated the town
of Commerce, Texas charges for a yearly inspection. Plumlee referenced the 2012 International Property Maintenance Code that is part of the City of Stamford’s ordinance 885 approved in 2014 by the Council. This gives the Enforcement Officer inspection guidelines for the outside and inside of a structure. He stated several towns are doing this through their Code Enforcement Officers. Decker stated all the major cities have ordinances to charge fees for inspections. The discussion brought in dangerous buildings, uninhabitable buildings, making sure these are not being rented out to people to live in. Decker stated, “We have people who are desperate for a place to live, will take anything they can get and you have property owners who know that. If we can eliminate that, then there will be some folks who will have better places to live.” The City Manager stated, referencing the ordinance, “It goes to make that inspection and tells that property owner ‘You either get that fixed or you get a citation or it could be torn down.’” The Mayor stated that good, quality rental properties are in short supply in Stamford, “because you have either really nice ones that are too expensive for your average working class person to afford or you have junk, you have the slums.” Doan brought up the issue of not “going into anyone’s house.” Decker stated the action they are discussing would not happen if someone was living in the structure, but when one tenant moves out and before another one moves in. Roberson stated if the property owner pays the water/sewer bill, the City would not know when a new renter moves in. That brought up the idea of a yearly inspection and the cost of paying someone to do this job. The Mayor stated he wanted to have this discussion to have the Council
bring up ideas and get feedback on this issue. He stated there are tools available to use in the ordinance already approved. He would like to have it, “A) Easily enforceable and B) It can be easily shared with our citizens to know that it exists.” City Manager Plumlee began the City Manager’s Report with the wait at the light at Harmon Park being a problem. He stated he contacted TxDOT and received the information that, “You are either too close to it or you’re too far away from it.” He stated he forwarded information about the missing signs around town to Tx DOT. He went on to state he sent information concerning the 2020 Census to the Council of Governments. He gave an update on orange tagging vehicles in Stamford. The criteria of getting an orange tag on a vehicle being, “If it is not inspected, located anywhere the public can see it or parked in the front yard.” They continue working on the clarifier. Wingrove brought up dangerous playground equipment at Harmon Park. It was discussed to dismantle or replace them. The City has placed boards around the plastic slide and they are being taken down so people can climb up and jump off of it. Doan asked for an update on the Cowboy Country Museum. Plumlee stated he was waiting on test results. This is in reference to the Museum being closed due to a mold infestation. No other information was forthcoming concerning the Museum. Wright brought up the West Cemetery stating markers are being worked on. There is a need for relatives to come forward and give names and dates of loved ones buried there. The condition of the Cemetery has been improved. Mayor Decker adjourned the meeting.