January 4, 2019 - Stamford American

January 4, 2019 16 PAGES FULL OF NEWS, SPORTS, AND OPINION

STAMFORD

BOBBY GRIFFIN NAMED A TOP EXECUTIVE IN CORPORATE DIVERSITY ..... PAGE 3

American THE NEW

Stamford Bulldog quarterback Peyton Bevel was chosen as the 2018 Big Country Homepage Sports Player of the Year. In 12 games, Peyton threw for over 4,500 yards with 57 touchdowns, and rushed for almost 500 yards with 6 more TDs on the ground. That’s a combined 5,019 yards with 63 touchdowns.

In the game vs. DeLeon Bevel set state records for the most touchdown passes in a game and the most passing yards in a game. (Photo courtesy of Bearden Photography)

2018 was a great year for Stamford! Join us for a quick review, starting page 2.

TTHE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 10, ISSUE 33 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 97, ISSUE 39 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 113, ISSUE 40

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SEE BASKETBALL TEAM PHOTOS..............PAGE 8 SEE TRI AREA STOCK SHOW.......................PAGE 3

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MARK THE DATE...

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 or you want to see 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 773-2500.

JAN 17TH

FAMILY NIGHT: The Cowboy Country Museum’s next Family Night will be Thursday, January 17

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST from 5:30-6:30pm. This month’s theme is “Your Family Tree”. Come and learn about the history in your family. All ages are welcome. This event is free of charge. (Please note, that all children must be accompanied by an adult.)

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

JAN 22ND

ART SOCIAL: The Cowboy Country Museum is hosting an Art Social Tuesday, January 22 from 3-4pm. During this social, we will focus on two pieces of western art currently on display at the Museum. All ages are welcome. Please come join us!

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

Have an item for our community Calendar? Call 325-773-5550 and tell us about it or email it to office@americannewspapers.net

What is Your Stamford Connection?

Let us know – kay@americannewspapers.net (325) 773-5550

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

Friday 53 | 31

Saturday 60 | 39

Sunday 62 | 49

Monday 63 | 43

Tuesday 62 | 39

Wednesday 61 | 44

The weather is provided for you

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

Thursday 60 | 43

Looking Back at 2018

BY KAY SPEARS One change we can count on every twelve months is moving on into a new year. Most of us look forward to the new year with anticipation. The past year may or may not have been a “good” year for us. and we have hope that the new year will be better.

There is a comfort in knowing yearly events in our community will be on the calendar for 2019. These include Bulldogs athletics, the Chamber of Commerce Awards night, the annual Sagerton Hee Haw, and the Texas Cowboy Reunion.

The New Stamford American reported in the January 5, 2018 issue that Randy and Mary Denson opened Quencher’s liquor store at Christmas time, 2017. Also reported in January was the Tri Area Stock Show and a town meeting at Anson City Hall with Beto O’Rourke, candidate for 16th Congressional District. The Stamford American archives were digitized and made available free of charge on the Portal to Texas History website through a grant from the Tocker Foundation, in partnership with the Stamford Carnegie Library and North Texas University. There was the Jones County Junior Livestock Show, and Denise Dennis presented $1,475 to West Texas Rehab on their televised Telethon. There was a 23-acre fire in Jones County fought by the Stamford, Anson, Hawley volunteer fire fighters and the Texas A & M Forest Service. No injuries were reported.

SEE 2018, PG 5

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

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

SUBMISSIONS POLICY

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

NOTICE

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

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

MEMBER 2017 TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

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

CBRE’s Bobby Griffin Named A Top Executive In Corporate Diversity Bobby Griffin, CBRE’s Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion, has been named to the 2018 Black Enterprise list of Top Executives in Corporate Diversity. The annual list honors leading professionals who drive innovation, productivity and profitability by ensuring across-the-board diversity.

“Bobby has had a strong and positive impact on diversity and inclusion across our organization in the eight short months he has worked at CBRE,” says Jennifer Ashley, Global Director of Human Resources, CBRE. “Under his leadership we continue to celebrate the unique skills of our diverse employee base while opening our doors to more individuals across the globe.”

Since joining CBRE Mr. Griffin has traveled across the United States assessing the current state of diversity and inclusion at the Company and worked closely with both executive leadership and CBRE’s Employee Network Groups to develop innovative programs and initiatives. Prior to joining CBRE, Mr. Griffin served as the Global Director of Diversity and Inclusion for Flowserve Corporation, a global manufacturing and services company. He has held various diversity and inclusion and human resources leadership positions in Fortune 100 companies in the health care and consumer products sectors.

Bobby Griffin He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in management from Abilene Christian University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas.

The Top Diversity Executives’ list appears in the March/April 2018 issue of Black Enterprise and can be

found online at http://www.blackenterprise.com/list-top-corporate-diversity-executives-2018. Bobby is listed under Vice Presidents.

Bobby is the son of Marilyn Griffin of Stamford and Bobby Griffin of Ft. Worth and the grandson of Thelma Johnson of Stamford and the late James Dilliard.

About CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2017 revenue). The company has more than 80,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate investors and occupiers through approximately 450 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers a broad range of integrated services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

TRI AREA LIVESTOCK SHOW

On Saturday, January 5, 2019, the Tri-Area Livestock Show will resume its annual tradition of joining FFA and 4-H members from Lueders-Avoca, Paint Creek, and Stamford schools in exhibition of their livestock and agricultural mechanics projects. Check-in for sheep, goats, and swine will be held on Friday, January 3rd from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with check-in for cattle,

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chickens, and rabbits to be held on Saturday morning prior to the show. The show will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday with the judging order as follows: agricultural mechanics, sheep, goats, cattle, rabbits, chickens, and swine. Will Winter, swine breeder from Idalou, will judge all categories of livestock.

Immediately prior to the swine show, at approxi-

mately 12 p.m., the everpopular cake auction will be held. All proceeds from the action benefit the show’s prize money fund and assist with facility upgrades.

The public is invited to attend the 2019 Tri-Area Livestock Show to watch the events, support our local youth, and participate in the cake auction. All events will be held at the Weldon Holbrooks Show Arena,

located north of the Texas Cowboy Reunion Grounds.

For more information, or if you would like to make a donation to the show, please call James Decker at (325) 668-4878 or John Jensen at (325) 228-4281.

NEWS BRIEFS DONATE: A Winter Weather Wear Drive is being sponsored by the Stamford Rotary Club. Please donate your new or gently used coats, hoodies, gloves, scarves, and socks! Monetary donations can be mailed to: The Stamford Rotary Club, Attn: Winter Wear, 109 E McHarg St, Stamford, TX 79553. All donations are kept locally. A donation box is at the Stamford American and several locations throughout town.

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

Grades 6-12 welcome to attend.

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

TUTORING: SMS Tutoring every Thursday from 6:00-7:00 at Common Ground. This is an opportunity for your child to get extra help on their school work. Please have your children take advantage of this help. For more information, contact Paul Wright at 773-3604 or 370-6378.

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.

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.

Have an item for News Briefs?

Call 325-773-5550 and tell us about it or email it to office@americannewspapers.net

BIRTHDAYS JAN 2 - Macie Fernandez JAN 8 - Dominic Vega JAN 10 - Billie Bean JAN 11 - Michele Copeland Know someone who is having a birthday? Please remember to call us at 325-773-5550 and let us know!

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

HELLO FROM COWBOY COUNTRY

By Jewellee Kuenstler

Photos, photos, photos!

Lately, a docent and I have been sorting and categorizing photographs. This has been a long and tedious job, but we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. The reason that this has been such a tedious task is due to the fact that probably three-fourths of the photographs do not have any writing on them to let us know who they are or what is occurring. The docent I am referring to is Barbara Billington. She is absolutely amazing! Her wealth of knowledge is the only thing that has saved my sanity, not to mention that I learn so much from her about the people and places of Stamford.

While sorting through photographs, we came across a small photo, 2 ¾” x 2 ¾”, of a building under construction. The photograph is old, probably early 1900s. We began to research this photo and below is a summary of what we found. (Sometimes the research journey is the most exciting part.)

Barbara brought me an old Stamford American newspaper from November 13, 1975. This was the 75th

Anniversary of the town of Stamford. And right there, on page six was an enlarged photo, exactly like the one we found. The caption in the newspaper noted, “FIRST CITY HALL GOING UP – Workmen can be seen on ladders and on the roof as scaffling [sic] surrounds the first city hall at Stamford, built about 1907 or 1908 where the post office now stands. Shown is the front of the building, which faced west. The young town’s fire department was housed downstairs and an opera house was situated upstairs.”

WOW! I mean we had this huge city hall in our town square and it also had an opera house, really?! I had to know more about this building. So, I began to dig.

I started with the Stamford newspapers that are available on-line through the Portal to Texas History. The digitized newspapers begin in 1904, and the earliest mention of the City Hall was found in the September 2, 1904 edition. Well, that would mean that the City Hall must have existed before the “1907 or 1908” date that was in the caption of the 1975 edition. Since,

Upcoming Events at the Museum January 14 – Genealogical Meeting at 5pm January 17 – Family Night from 5:30-6:30pm January 22 – Social from 3-4pm

City Hall circa 1909

the digitized papers did not go farther back, I began to dig into the archives at the museum. In an essay titled, “The Growth of Stamford,”

by Evalyn Baker, probably written in the 1920s or 1930s, she states, “Three years after Stamford was established, the citizens of Stamford erected a City Hall in the center of town.”

We now have a date for the first city hall, 1903.

Next, I came across a Permanent Street Improvement Bond. Noted at the bottom of the bond was the words, “Payable at the office of the State Treasurer, Austin, Texas or at the banking house of S.M. Swenson & Sons, New York City…” The bond was for one thousand dollars. The bond was first issued in October 1902. Not only was this bond money to be used to pave the dirt streets of this West Texas cow town, but it also allowed money to be used to build a city hall - the one in the photo that Barbara and I found.

Being little more than a frontier town, I was still really perplexed by such a large City Hall, that apparently every local civic club held their meetings at, as well as the town band, the fire department, the jail, the city government offices, AND an opera house! Then I came across a program for an event at the Opera House. Dated March 13, 1906, this Recital Program listed three different acts for that night’s entertainment. A poetry reading by Ella James Raines, followed by a Comedietta in One Act titled, “After a Storm Comes A Calm”. Finally, there was a comedy in one-act titled, “The Burglar”. That would have been something to see.

As I was researching through the newspaper articles, I came across some interesting items concerning the City Hall that I would love to know more about. Some are funny, yet some of the articles remind

Construction of City Hall 1903 us of a different time, a time that wasn’t so pretty or tolerant. In the September 2, 1904 edition of the Stamford News on page 5, a meeting conducted by the Sons and Daughters of the Confederacy met at City Hall. This organization was established in Tennessee in 1894 and a chapter was organized in Stamford shortly after the city’s inception.

The purpose of the organization was two-fold, to give aid to aging Civil War vets and to keep alive the ideals promoted by the Confederacy. Most historians view it as a white supremacy group that was not violent like the Klu Klux Klan.

On a lighter note, another article printed in the December 2, 1904 edition gave a very bold warning to anyone caught dumping excrement at the Fire Department that was located in City Hall. I would LOVE to know more about that story. What kind of excrement was left? Who would leave something like that at the Fire Department? Was it a prank? So many questions.

Although the original City Hall was large, it needed to grow with the town. In the

December 20, 1907 edition of the Stamford News, a bond was passed that provided $4000 for enlarging City Hall. Although this was passed at the end of 1907, it wasn’t until June 5, 1908 that an advertisement was placed in the Stamford News for contract bids, “Sealed bids will be received on an addition to the City Hall of Stamford, by the City Secretary, until 4 o’clock June 15th, 1908.”

For reasons I could not locate, the City Hall on the square was condemned and torn down at the beginning of 1917, the same year the current City Hall on the corner of McHarg street was erected. By spring the city had sold the land in the middle of the town square to the federal government and by June 1, 1917, construction had started on the Post Office. What a cool bit of history! If you would like to see the archives that I garnered information from, then stop by. If you have more information to add, please let me know.

I want to remind you about some great events that we have scheduled at the Museum for the month of January:

Monday, January 14 – Genealogical Meeting at 5pm: If you are interested in discovering your family’s roots or you need help getting past a wall in your family tree, please come to our meeting. It is free of charge and refreshments will be served. All ages are welcome.

Thursday, January 17 – Family Night from 5:30-6:30pm: This month’s theme is “Your Family Tree”. Come and learn about the history in your family. All ages are welcome, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

This event is free of charge.

Tuesday, January 22 – Art Social from 3-4pm: During this social, we will focus on two pieces of western art currently on display at the Museum. All ages are welcome. Please come join us!

As always, we love for you to stop by and visit with us. If you have any information or just want to say “Hi”, email us at cowboycountrymuseum@ yahoo.com or call us at 325/773-2500.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

2018: Continued From Page 2 In February there was the Meet the Candidates night presented by Texas A & M AgriLife in preparation for the primary elections in March. The first King’s Court was held at the Stamford High School gym and included students from 12 surrounding schools.

Stamford Middle School 6th graders had their poems published. There was a football realignment with the Bulldogs in 2A Division, District 3 beginning in the Fall. The Basketball team to be in 2A Region, District 8.

Gary Gibbs opened the Big Red’s Liquor Store. Lupie Gonzalez was appointed to the Library Board by Stamford City Council. Bulldog players were named to the All-State Team. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 661 held the Lueder’s Pancake Supper fundraiser.

Paul Chaisson became the new administrator for the Community Care Center.

The Bulldogs were District Champions and Bi-District Champions in 2A basketball, and H. D. Lewis signed to play football for HardinSimmons University. Barry Bailey, Jr. was tried at the Jones County Courthouse and acquitted of 1st Degree Murder for the death of Jessie Arms in Stamford in 2016.

In March Lady Bulldog players were chosen to be on the All-District team and students were named to Academic All District.

The Jones County Primary Election results were announced with a run-off needed for County Tax Assessor-Collector. Miranda Alvarado was introduced as the new Stamford Lady Bulldogs Softball Coach. At the Chamber of Commerce Banquet Caden Mathis and Cassie King were given Outstanding Senior Boy and Girl awards. The Sagerton Hee Haw was held. Stamford placed first at District UIL. Devin Villanueva’s baseball jersey #11 was re-

tired by Stamford Athletics.

April, 2018 was proclaimed Autism Awareness Month by the Stamford Mayor and City Council.

Sonic Manager, David Fernandez, was recognized for outstanding service to Stamford ISD. Being sworn-in in May were James Decker as the new Mayor of Stamford, Dennis Braden as returning City Councilman and Paul Wright as new City Councilman. Justin Corzine and Callie Metler-Smith were sworn-in as new members of the Stamford ISD School Board. Former Bulldog, James Washington, was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL Draft.

In June Jennifer Caddell was chosen as the Texas Cowboy Reunion Hostess and Josie Fladager as the TCR Sponsor.

July held the lead as the surprise month when Stamford Hospital closed the doors to the Emergency Room and inpatient facilities. Dr. Douglas Kruckner resigned from Stamford Healthcare System. On a brighter note KTAB television station from Abilene was in Stamford as part of its On the Road series.

Suzanne Haterius-Fusaro was named as the new Director of Operations for The Grand Theater. Marge Barnett Day was declared for July 13th, and the TCR Parade was led by Parade Marshal Johnny Anders.

Congressman Jody Arrington and family attended the TCR festivities on July 4th.

From August to November the Jones County Courthouse saw its first Capital Murder Trial in 29 years. Chuck Pruitt retired after 28 years as the Jones County Veterans Service Officer. Mitchell Glen Butler was arrested in the murder case of Alice “Sissy” Brigham. Dr. Jessica Johnson was approved to serve as Medical Director for the

Stamford Family Health Center. The Stamford Police Department was responsible for getting 748 grams of Methamphetamine off the street, seizing over $10,000 and arresting two women in the process.

In September Jones County saw the 60th Annual Jones County Fair and its first BBQ Cook Off. The Stamford Carnegie Library was awarded a position in the Code Club for Small and Rural Libraries Grant.

Dr. Shaun Barnett announced his retirement as Stamford ISD Superintendent in October. The Jones County Commissioners Court announced that help with disaster money for Jones County was not a certainty. Callie Metler-Smith announced the closing of the Anson American newspaper, a supplement to the New Stamford American, after 7 ½ years of operation. Kay Spears moved from Editor of the Anson American to Editor of the New Stamford American.

In November Callie Metler-Smith’s children’s book, Ben’s West Texas Snow, was published.

Stamford Goodfellows began another year of helping the community. The Grand Theater reopened

after a great community effort. Jones County Sheriff Greg Arnwine resigned after serving 2 years of his elected 4-year term.

Closing out the year in December, Jim Astin retired from the First Bank Texas as Stamford Branch President and Scott Beardon took on that role. Joe Whitehorn, Jones County Commissioner for Precinct 4, retired. The Jones County Commissioners Court took applications and held interviews to fill the Sheriff position. Danny Jimenez, Jones County Constable, was selected to be the Sheriff for the unexpired 2-year term. St. John’s Methodist Church hosted a successful Christmas Dinner for the community.

There were ups, downs and surprises in 2018.

Through it all Stamford and Jones County stayed strong.

All of us here at the New Stamford American wish you a safe and prosperous Happy New Year!

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JANUARY 4, 2019

LONG ROAD TO MERCY:

By David Baldacci Atlee Pine’s twin sister, Mercy, was abducted from their home when they were six. Atlee was seriously injured, but recovered. Her drive to find what happened to her sister led Atlee to join the FBI. She currently serves at the Resident Agency that encompasses the Grand Canyon. The state of Rhode READING REVIEW Island could fit within this territory.

Martha Jarred A dead mule is found on the floor of the canyon with “j” and “k” carved on its side. The rider, Ben Priest, has not been located. Atlee contacts Ben’s brother, Ed, who sends a family picture to her. The description of the missing tourist does not match that of Ben Priest. Two people are missing. As she investigates the disappearances, Atlee’s supervisor orders her to stand down and take some vacation days.

Following an attempted assassination by apparent US Army soldiers, Attlee is more determined than ever to see the case through.

Since Ben is from Washington, D.C., Atlee and her secretary, Carol Blum, head east. She battles Russians and a North Korean ninja, as well as Federal government agents. Atlee is finally able to access Ben’s computer where she learns that a weapon of mass destruction has been placed in a Grand Canyon cave.

She determines that a group within the US government linked with Russia is planning to stage a coup. At this point, Atlee is not sure who can be trusted.

With coordinates found on Ben’s computer, Atlee and Carol return to the Grand Canyon hoping to located the bomb before it can be detonated. At one point in her life, Atlee was almost an Olympian weight lifter. Her incredible strength will be put to the test as she tries to save the world teetering on the brink of war.

LONG ROAD TO MERCY debuts a new character for bestselling author, David Baldacci. Atlee Pine survives a childhood trauma and is now focused on insuring others will not suffer as she did. Atlee is smart and courageous. Her secretary, Carol Blum, is older but proves to be a life-saving partner as she accompanies Atlee’s rogue adventure. Through multiple twists and turns, the women become friends as well as co-workers. The complicated plot, full of intense action and espionage, could be ripped from the headlines. Colorful descriptions and educational historical information regarding the Grand Canyon add realism to the setting.

Spoiler Alert — cliff hanger ending.

Titles by David Baldacci can be found at Henderson Book Store, located on the Square in Haskell, open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 12:00 — 5:00.

Please call Martha Jarred, 940-864-3072, for more information.

news@americannewspapers.net I’ve written in this space several times about Stamford’s Christmas Day dinner. Several weeks ago I wrote that this dinner has a simple mission, to ensure that no one in Stamford is forced to spend Christmas Day alone. This event began 31 years ago and in that first year, served 75 meals primarily to shut-ins. Over the years, the event has grown to encompass delivery, take-out, and dine-in options.

This year, those options combined to provide a record 800 meals, over 25% of the town’s population.

Almost 600 meals were served via delivery alone. It took 36 turkeys, 32 double recipes of dressing, hundreds of slices of ham and dozens of gallons of green beans and sweet potatoes.

Most importantly, it took an army of volunteers. Over 100 people from across the community prepared ingredients ahead of time, cut pies and packed fruit on Christmas Eve, arrived at the church at 2 am on Christmas Day to begin

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

a meal at the cooking, and same table spent their and then Christmas Day depart. They serving and deeat. Then livering meals, they trade and ultimately, desserts. cleaning up the They re-fill aftermath. each other’s The ChristESSAYS FROM WEST drinks. mas Day dinner They talk to is an exciting, OF 98 each other’s exhausting, kids. They energizing James M. Decker visit about affair. It’s easy their lives. to wonder if They STAY. Together. One you have enough energy regular volunteer told me to power through another that 40 years ago, he never year. Then, the dinner hapdreamed that he’d spend pens and you know you’d Christmas Day like this, never, ever miss one. It is serving and eating a meal often said that sharing a with hundreds of people table and a meal is one of who aren’t just people the most powerful, leveling in the same community, experiences that a group of they’re family. people can have together.

This year, I took the opEvery year, I look across portunity to deliver a few the dining room and I am meals and I was reminded reminded of the accuracy of something very imporof that statement. I see tant. What we do on Christpeople sitting side-by-side mas Day in Stamford is a whose paths might never wonderful experience, but otherwise cross, from all it lasts only one day a year. ages, backgrounds, and The Christmas Day dinner creeds. Then I see someserves a variety of needs in thing even more special. peoples’ lives—food, comThey don’t just wolf down

panionship, and encouragement of one another. But those needs are present in our communities the other 364 days a year too.

How can we bring the spirit of the Christmas Day dinner to our community year round? What can we do to uplift our fellow community members all 365 days of ever year?

Ultimately, the food is important, but the dinner is about more than food. It’s about uplifting everyone, regardless of age, background, creed, or other specific need. I’m not quite sure how we can bring that to our community for 365 days, but I do know that it matters and Lord willing, we’re going to figure out how.

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.

DEATH NOTICE Amos Carl Cooper, 64, of Stamford, passed away December 24, 2018 in Stamford. Memorial services were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 5, 2019 at KinneyUnderwood Funeral Chapel with Rev. Marshal Harris officiating. Online guestbook entries may be given at www. kinneyunderwoodfuneralhome.com

Shawn Lindsey, 51, of Stamford, passed away December 21, 2018. Following Shawn’s wishes, cremation was selected. Memorial services were held 12:00 p.m. on January 4, 2019 at First Baptist Church with Randy Quisenberry and Pastor John Ward officiating. Online memories may be shared at www.kinneyunderwoodfuneralhome.com

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

JANUARY 4, 2019

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Basketball teams from around Texas and 2 from Australia came together after Christmas to play in the Anson Lions Club 8th Annual Holliday Tournament fundraiser.

Lions Club 2018 Basketball Fundraiser

BY KAY SPEARS The Anson Lions Club held their eighth Annual Holiday Tournament December 27 & 28, 2018 in the three Anson ISD gyms. Twenty-two teams were represented from Texas and two from Australia. The Texas teams included Anson, Borden County, Childress, Comanche, De Leon, Hamlin, Hawley, Hico, Llano, Post, Quanah, Roscoe, Seymour, Sweetwater, Taylor, Vega, Waxahachie, Wellington and Wylie. The Girls Bracket was won by Vega and Wellington won the Boys Bracket.

Janet Hagler reported on her Face-

Book page, “The Anson kids were able to spend time with the Aussie kids, make friends and memories. We introduced them to Hot Pockets, frozen pickle juice, and Texas brisket. They introduced us to vegemite, Tim Tam cookies and Aussie chants.” The emoji she used reflected that she wouldn’t be buying vegemite any time soon.

She stated that Jones County Attorney Chad Cowan, an active Lion, and his daughter Haley gave the “Aussies” a tour of the 1910 Courthouse. They were able to go up and investigate the inside of the clock tower. During the tournament the two teams from Aus-

Raiders Named to All-Region Teams The All Region Teams for DII Region 2 were revealed this week. Lueders-Avoca Raiders named to the 1st Team All-Region Offense were Kicker Mortiz Lutz and Utility Player Logan Hearn.

Named to the 2nd Team All-Region Offense were Wide Receiver Jacob Jarvis; Spread Center Tobi Crane; and Spread Back Daiquan Brown.

Named to 2nd Team Defense were Nose Guard Wyntanna Fields; Linebacker Jeremiah Jarvis; and Utility Player Jacob Jarvis.

Logan Hearn was also selected Six Man All State 2nd Team Defense Utility Player.

tralia left onlookers with the memory of a cheer ending in “Oi, Oi, Oi!” This is an annual fundraiser for the Anson Lions Club, which supports the international mission of sight conservation. They provide financial support for eye exams, eye glasses for local citizens and Lions Camp scholarships.

The other annual fundraiser is a Pancake Supper and the funds raised are used for local projects such as the Softball Field dedicated in 2011.

Jot a note to yourself on your 2019 calendar to attend next year.

BALES GINNED AT AREA GINS as of 12/28/18 Ericksdahl Coop Gin - 3326 Farmer’s Coop Gin-Stamford - 4344 Farmer’s Coop Gin-Radium - 1318

Caden Mathis, a 2018 graduate of Stamford High School, was named to the President’s list at Lubbock Christian University for the Fall 2018 semester. To achieve this goal, a student must be enrolled full-time and have 4.0 GPA. Caden is the son of Cody and Misty Mathis.

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2018-2019 Varsity Bulldog Basketball Team PHOTOS BY BEARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

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JANUARY 4, 2019

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SMS Tutoring SMS Tutoring every Thursday from 6:00-7:00 at Common Ground. This is an opportunity for your child to get extra help on their school work. Retired teachers have chosen to give back by pouring their

Varsity Lady Bulldog Basketball Team

heart of love in your child.

Please have your children take advantage of this help.

For more information, contact Paul Wright at 7733604 or 370-6378. We look forward to serving your children.

10 JANUARY 4, 2019 USDA SAYS IT WILL DELIVER ON TRUMP REQUEST FOR 5-PERCENT SPENDING CUT Under orders from President Trump to cut spending by 5 percent, the USDA may try to slash the taxpayer-subsidized crop insurance program, eliminate a green-payment program, or take an ax to its research agencies, if recent proposals are any indication.

LEAH PENNIMAN ON HER NEW BOOK, ‘FARMING WHILE BLACK’ Leah Penniman is codirector and program manager of the 72-acre Soul Fire Farm in Grafton, New York, which is dedicated to training a new generation of black, brown, and indigenous farmers while working to dismantle racism and injustice in the food system.

Her new book, “Farming While Black: Soul Fire Farm’s Practical Guide to Liberation on the Land,” is a first-of-its-kind guide for farmers of color.

TODAY’S QUICK HITS OREGON DAIRY STILL DIRTY (Statesman Journal): Lost Valley, the state’s second-largest dairy, which sources the Tillamook cheese company, continues to rack up wastewater violations and fines.

CHOBANI BOOM SLOWS (Bloomberg): Some dairy farmers in New York grew their herds to source Chobani’s flagship processing plant. Now, with the yogurt brand flagging, some farmers have resorted to dumping raw milk.

‘MALNUTRITION IS NOT INEVITABLE’ (The Telegraph): World Food

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KASN AG REPORT

By Richard Kemp Prize laureates David Nabarro and Lawrence Haddad say the world needs “to give new meaning to the food we eat,” to ensure it is nutritious, affordable, abundant, and as waste-free as possible.

EPA TO PROPOSE E15 RULE BY FEBRUARY (Reuters): Early next year, the EPA will unveil its proposal for year-round sales of E15, carrying out orders from President Trump, and would complete work on the rule by May, according to a document filed at the White House budget office.

RICE STUBBLE AND SMOG (Washington Post): India is trying to reduce dangerously high levels of wintertime smog in Delhi by persuading farmers in the state of Punjab to mulch their rice stubble after harvest rather than burning it, the age-old method of clearing fields for the next crop.

BURGER CHAINS SCORE POORLY (Consumer Reports): Only two of the top 25 burger chains, BurgerFi and Shake Shack, serve beef from cattle raised without antibiotics; 22 of the chains “give no indication of having a policy that limits antibiotics in the beef they serve.”

WEST TEXAS TREES AND LANDSCAPES

By Bruce Kreitler and the KWKC Green Team You know, years ago, I used to have trouble remembering to put the correct year on things that I needed to date, after a new year had come along. These days, the years are flying by so quickly, that putting the wrong year is a mistake I seldom make anymore.

As I’ve said before, as I get older, my personal time machine goes faster and faster. 2018 sure flew by, and I suspect the only difference with 2019 will be that it may disappear even faster than 2018 did.

Since New Year’s happens less than two weeks after the “official” start of winter, I think it’s safe to say that we are now firmly into winter, which means there are some things we should do, and some things we should not do, at this time of year.

If you need to put out new mulch or compost, now would be a very good time to do that, in fact, sooner would be better than later. On the other hand, since it will be a couple of months before any trees start breaking bud, if you need to procrastinate a little while before

removing mistletoe, there’s enough time available to accommodate that procrastination. If you need to do some pruning that means removing a large percentage (over twenty five percent) of a tree’s canopy, you could procrastinate a little on that, but again, sooner would be better than later.

In my opinion, one thing that we shouldn’t be doing at this time of year is a heavy cutting back of shrubs. As far as I’m concerned, shrub trimming during the wintertime should be confined to just maintenance pruning.

Heavily cutting back an overgrown shrub is almost certainly going to cause it to try to put on a bunch of new growth, at the first opportunity. We usually get plenty of stretches of mild weather during our winters, and those mild periods would almost certainly allow heavily pruned shrubs to put on new growth.

Unfortunately, our nice, clement, periods in the winter tend to be followed by some really cold temperatures. Any new growth that has managed to extend itself while the weather was mild, will be killed by cold temperatures. Large reductions of shrubs are stressful to the plants, and should wait until freezing temperatures, or potential freezing temperatures, are over for the year.

While some may say that crape myrtles are also shrubs, to my way of thinking, they are kind of in a class of their own, and I want to talk about them separately.

Something I see a lot of during the winter, and extending into the early

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spring, is where people have heavily cut back their crape myrtles. While most shrubs are planted to be kept a certain size, or shape, crape myrtles are different in that they are planted more for color, and as specimen plants.

One of the reasons that I don’t class crape myrtles with shrubs is because they are not at all suited to the same kind of pruning that a shrub gets. In fact, as far as how they respond to pruning, they are much more like a tree than a shrub. Since crape myrtles are more tree-like in their growth, and response to pruning, that means they should be handled differently.

Above, when I mentioned “heavily cut back” for crape myrtles, what I meant was topping them.

It’s a very common practice for people to pick a height they think is necessary, and just cut off all the stems in a crape myrtle at that height. A lot of people do this because they think it’s just the way crape myrtles need to be handled, and that they will bloom better as a result. The reality is that topping them that way damages the health of the plant, and probably actually reduces the number of blooms, and the plant’s overall attractiveness.

What I suggest to people concerning crape myrtles, is that if they have room to grow taller, keep the lower part of the plant free of unsightly sprouts and excess canes, and let the main plant be as big and beautiful as it can.

Note that I said “if they have room”. A lot of crape myrtles are planted in

places where there just isn’t room for them to grow as tall as they would like. In those cases, while topping them might not be the best thing that ever happened to them, it’s either that or remove the plant entirely. If you like your crape myrtle, and would like to keep it, that’s an easy choice.

Crape myrtles bloom on new growth, so as much as possible, whatever pruning you might have in mind for them, especially if it involves heavy removals, should be done before they start their springtime activity. However, crape myrtles are very late in coming out, and there is plenty of time to get that done after winter is essentially over, before they start putting a new year’s growth, and blooming.

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.

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Workforce Commission Reports Continuation Of Employment Trend Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 3.7 percent in November, remaining at the same 42year low rate as in October, the Texas Workforce Commission reported Dec. 21.

The Texas economy added 14,000 seasonally adjusted non-farm jobs in November and annual employment growth was 3.0 percent for the month, marking 103 consecutive months of annual growth, according to the commission.

“The addition of 365,400 jobs over the year and 14,000 jobs in November demonstrates the consistency with which employers in our state create job opportunities for the highly skilled Texas workforce,” said TWC Chair Ruth R. Hughs. “The Texas economy offers employers access to a competitive workforce and provides job seekers with career options in a variety of growing Texas industries. The numbers are a testament to the resilience of our Texas employers and the diversity of our Texas economy,” she added.

The manufacturing sector recorded the largest private-industry employment gain over the month with 9,100 jobs added and led all industries in growth.

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area recorded the month’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a nonseasonally adjusted rate of 2.1 percent, followed by the Amarillo MSA, second lowest with a rate of 2.5 percent, and the Odessa MSA, third lowest with a rate of 2.6 percent.

Special Elections Are Set Gov. Greg Abbott set Tuesday, Jan. 29, as the special election date to fill two recently vacated seats in the Texas House of Representatives.

Those seats are House District 145, vacated by

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ed Sterling

former state Rep. Carol Alvarado, D-Houston, a House member since 2008, and House District 79, soon to be vacated by Rep. Joe Pickett, D-El Paso, a House member since 1995.

Alvarado in early December won a special election runoff for the Texas Senate seat vacated by Sylvia Garcia, D-Houston, who resigned from office after she was elected to the U.S. House in November. Alvarado was administered the oath of office on Dec. 21.

On Dec. 15, Pickett resigned from office effective Jan. 4, citing health issues.

Candidates who wish to have their names placed on the special election ballot must file their applications with the Secretary of State no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 3. Early voting by personal appearance will begin Jan. 14.

Regent Chair Is Elected Kevin Eltife, appointed in 2017 by Gov. Abbott to a six-year term on The University of Texas System Board of Regents, was unanimously elected chairman of the board on Dec. 20.

A native of Tyler, Eltife has a resume that includes service on the Tyler City Council as a councilmember, as mayor of Tyler, and as state senator for District 1.

While mayor of Tyler, Eltife received national recognition for the creation of a “pay as you go” business plan that strategically

eliminated general obligation bond debt and lowered property tax rates.

As a state senator, Eltife was noted for his bipartisan cooperation and his leadership in finance, economic development, open government, health and human services, and government organization.

The UT board of regents oversees 14 higher education institutions, an enrollment of more than 235,000 students and an operating budget of $19.5 billion.

Coalition Includes Paxton Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Dec. 20 announced that he and 38 state attorneys general had sent a letter to congressional leaders, asking them “to fully consider criminal justice reforms” like those contained in the federal FIRST STEP Act (House Resolution 5682).

The letter explains that many states already have enacted criminal justice reforms similar to those in the FIRST STEP Act to great success, such as incentivizing federal inmates to participate in recidivismreducing programs such as vocational training and academic courses.

H.R. 5682 also would put more tools in the hands of prosecutors, allowing them to seek the most appropriate sentence for an individual’s crimes, Paxton said.

“This legislation provides additional tools and flexibility to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, better equipping our correctional system to ensure that people coming back into our communities are prepared to do so as responsible citizens who do not pose a risk to our communities,” coalition members wrote in the letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

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VIP MENU January 7-11 Monday Cod Fish, Beans, Coleslaw, Hushpuppies, Peaches Tuesday Chicken & Dumpling, Salad, Crackers, Dump Cake Wednesday Chili Cheese Dogs, French Fries, Pea Salad, Banana Thursday Hamburger Steak with Onions & Gravy, Baked Potato, Corn On Cob, Mixed Fruit Friday Chicken Fajita Salad, Refried Beans, Mexican Corn, Apple Toffee Cake

news@americannewspapers.net God’s Word is never changing and is the same today, tomorrow and forever. From the beginning, His Word held meaning and it will continue to do so until the end (Luke 21:33).

Within His Word, we can find the answers to life’s biggest questions.

As followers of Christ, we are called not to live like the world but instead to live our lives like children of God (1 John 3:1). This requires devotion, submission and full out surrender.

This world we live in is a dark one, but praise the Lord we have been given the light that can never be extinguished (John 8:12).

When I think of persecution, the first thing I think of is terror and punishment. We read in the New Testament that Christians suffered great persecution while spreading the Good News of Christ. And sadly in many parts of the world similar persecution is still going on today.

However, in our everyday lives, we are greatly blessed to not have to deal with such great persecution for being a believer. But at the same time being a Christian is not the most popular thing in this day and age.

The more that we seek God the more we will be able to see clearly

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the Spirit of God living in you that is bringing their sin to light. And the Holy Spirit’s work in when this happens, our life. There are many be encouraged, for ways to see and feel our you know that your spiritual growth, but faith is genuine. one way I have noticed When you begin is through the world’s to realize that the reaction. When people world hates you… know that you are a firm that’s when you can believer and you really be reassured that you carry your cross daily, are truly walking in then their thought progenuine faith. Jesus cess might change about says, “If the world you (2 Cor. 2:15-16). I’ve By Dalton Mathis hates you, rememseen it happen in two ber that it hated me ways, the Holy Spirit first. The world would love you as either draws people to you, because one of its own if you belonged to they are curious and want what you it, but you are no longer part of the have. And when this happens, we world. I chose you to come out of should always use this as an opporthe world, so it hates you.” (John tunity to share God’s glorious Grace 15:18-19) Jesus tells us that we will (Eph. 5:16). The other reaction is not be popular or like everyone else that people are completely ashamed because we are following Him. True of their sins and become convicted Christ followers are different than when near or around you. Some people might even think you’re crazy the world; there is a definite separation between them and the world (2 Cor. 5:13) and feel uncomfortable around them. I encourage you to when in your presence. This is not look around and make sure you’re because of you necessarily, but it’s

Temporary Residents

PASTOR’S PEN

living for God’s Kingdom and not the ungodly society of this world.

As children of the light, we must always carry that light with us. Our witness is so powerful and has great impact on both believers and nonbelievers alike. Every moment we get we should look to bring glory to God’s wonderful name. Sharing the love of God with others is our duty, and we should not look to win their approval but instead win the approval of our Heavenly Father (Gal. 1:10).

We do this by not conforming to the world but by living for the Kingdom of God. So I encourage you not to try to please the world because the world and Jesus have never gotten along. But share the Truth with this broken world and do everything you do with a loving heart so they might come to know who He is. (John 13:35) Your everyday witness and love could determine someone else’s eternal destination. Do not love the world, because we are only temporary residents (1 Pet. 2:11)… But instead, share the love of Christ with this broken world. Blessings to you this coming week!

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

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

Bethel (Christ) Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 1024 E. Vanderbilt 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 9:00

Faith Lutheran Church Sagerton, Texas 940-200-0723 AM Worship: 10:30

Bethel Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 10707 N. FM 600 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 11:00

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

Am Worship: 10:45 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 11:00am 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 Ron Ballard, 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 Father Angelo Consemino 1001 S Swenson 325-773-2659 AM Mass: 11:00

Temple Baptist Church Jesse Morton 309 E Campbell 325-773-2550 AM Service: 11:00

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

Trinity Church Dr. Robert Wingrove 220 E. McHarg

Solomon Temple Baptist Church Rev. Donnie Massey 315 N. Haskell St. 325-773-2213 AM Worship 9:30

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Another Christmas has passed and also another year has left us. It seems that 2018 went by so fast for me, I did not accomplish much. I guess getting slower goes along with getting older!!! I want to wish every one a Very Good Year in 2019. Now we have to get use to writing 2019.

That always takes a little effort.

Thank goodness the weather was not as bad as they said it would be on Christmas, so travel was not too bad. I just don’t like cold weather.

Activities in January 2019 include: Sunday, Jan. 6, members will gather at the Old Glory Lodge Hall for their monthly meeting beginning at 4 P M. Stew or Chili and desserts will be for the evening meal.

The Multi County Retired Teachers and School Personnel will be meeting at the Anson Methodist Church for their luncheon and meeting at 11:30 A M. Volunteer hours will need to be turned in at that time, if you have not already done so.

There will be a Senior Citizens Dance at the Old Glory Community Center on Thursday, Jan. 10 from 7 P M until 10 P M with a live band and snacks will be furnished. Everyone is invited to attend. If the weather is bad, the dance will be canceled.

The Hobby Club will be meeting at the Sagerton Community Center at 2 P M on Thursday, Jan. 17.

We will start having our Musicals on Saturday, January 26, with the oncession stand opening at 5;30 and the program will begin at 6 P M. If the weather is bad, there will not be a musical held. If you are not sure, call 989-2816 or 989-2966. If the weather is nice, we want to see all of you at the musical, the first in 2019.

On Dec. 18, Tracy Dunham of Hamlin, Shelly Dunham and Mittie Dunham drove to Midland for the funeral of a nephew. They stated the traffic there was horrible.

news@americannewspapers.net of Rodney On Dec. and Tracy 20, Pide and Dunham Mittie drove for the famto Abilene for ily Christa doctor’s apmas. It was pointment and a day filled while there with lot of they joined family memtheir grandbers, gifts, daughter, Sonja Dunhan, OLD GLORY NEWS visiting and food. for lunch and

By Anita Dozier Dale and a visit.

Carm Letz My grandenjoyed a day filled with daughter, Sara Heidenfun, gifts, and food on the heimer, and her sons 23rd with their family; from Maryland flew in last Terry and Laramie Letz Sunday to attend the fuand Brody of Sagerton, neral of a relative in Rule.

Micah and Lacey New, DarShe remained in this area visiting relatives and enjoy- bee, Laynee, and Hazelee from Haskell. ing having Christmas with On Dec. 20, Carm and family until Saturday, Dec. Dale attended the School 29, when she and her boys Christmas Program at flew back to Sevren, Marythe School in Haskell; land. Her husband, Chief granddaughters; Darbee Petty Officer J G Heidenand Laynee took part in heimer was not able to the program. Dale and attend since he was on Carm’s grandson, Brody duty. We enjoyed having them here for a while since Letz, took part in the Band Concert on the same day they do not get to come to at the First Baptist Church Texas very often. in Haskell.

Adam Rhoads of Terrell Danny and Phyllis Letz came to spend the night had their family home with his grandmother, on Christmas Day in the Bernice Rhoads. On Sunevening to celebrate their day, 23rd, they drove to holiday. Enjoying the day Amarillo to the home of together were Jana and her daughter, Sherry and Albert Hinkle of Abilene, David Breeding for a famJana Conner from Wichita ily Christmas on the 24th.

Falls, Casey and Emery Others enjoying all the Letz, Rylan, Cale and Madiactivities, gifts and food syn of Stamford. Eric and were Sherry’s daughter Troy Conner of Wichita and husband, Rachel and Falls were not able to atNathan Ciomperlik from tend.

Hearne, Bernie’s brother, Danny and his band Floyd Offield his wife played at a New Years Cora Sue, their daughter, Jana Roesner and son Scott Party at Bronte on Saturday evening.

Gallegas all of Amarillo.

I enjoyed having part Enjoying a day filled of my family here for our with fun, gifts, and food Christmas Celebration on at the home of Glen and Sunday, 23rd. We all had a Helen Pierce were Wes and great time but sorry some Tracy Pierce, Kelsey and were unable to attend.

Kambryn from Nocona, Fifteen were present and Kambryn’s friend, Corby eleven was absent. Sure is from Norman, Oklahoma, hard to get a large famJamie Wilde of Knox ily together on a special City, Matthew Pierce of holiday.

Stamford, Wayne and Mike and Maxelle Baldree Kara Briggs and Crete, of of Tuscola spent the night Haskell, Kade and Sarah with me on Saturday, the Lowack of San Angelo, 22nd. Sara Heidenheimer, and Bobby and Kim Lowack and Kelly from OG. Zach and Ryan spent the night with me on the 23rd.

Pide and Mittie Dunham Spending Christmas Day and Shelly went to Hamlin with Pide and Mittie Dunon the 22nd to the home

ham, Gerral Waldan and Shelly Dunham were Gerral’s son and family, Justin and Barbara Waldan, Cody and Hunter of Hawley; Gerral’s daughter, Kelly Waldan from Abilene; Pide and Mittie’s son and wife, Rodney and Tracy Dunham of Hamlin, Shelly’s son, Colton Hill and friend Kiana Serin both of Lubbock. Colton is Pide and Mittie’s grandson.

Visiting with Pide and Mittie Dunham on Sunday afternoon were Bo and Whiz Creighton from OG. I attended the Christmas Program at the Faith Lutheran Church on Christmas Eve. It was a beautiful program and lot of nice refreshments following the program.

Daughter, Rita Stephens, of Abilene and I joined hundreds of folks at the Christmas lunch served at the First United Methodist Church in Stamford on Christmas Day. Many,many volunteers made the delicious lunch possible.

Thought for the week: “If your headed in the right direction, each step, no matter how small, is getting you closer to your goal.”

Happy Birthday wishes go to Shawna Vahlenkamp, Matt Jennings, Meta Kupatt, Furman Metcalf, Chloe Teichelman, Chris Baldree, Bernice Rhoads, Wesley Corzine, Kevin Meier, Tate Starks, Colt Gentry, M’Lynn Johnson, Andrew Hertel, Iona Baldree, Beverly Davis, Robert Tribbey, Randy Wilks, Brian Lehrmann, Ruby Olson, Doug McEwen, Clancy Lehrmann, Joe Sam Stubbs, Alvin Hertel, Kim Lowack, Pide Dunham, Justin Corzine, Cody Baker, Robert Diers, and Danielle Oliver.

We wish you many more.

Anniversary greetings go to Glen and Helen Pierce (69), Furman and Juanita Metcalf, W D an Lois Allison, Rachel and Nathan Ciomperlik, Steve and Karen Lehrmann, James and Marilyn Martin, Jerry and Judy Manske, Trapper and Morgan Dixon, and Jacky and Gail Ray.

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Paint Creek Students of the Week

Angel Thompson - 9th Grade

Zoey Townsend - 3rd Grade

Johnathan Beauchamp Pre-K

Bailey Hawkins - 12h grade

14 JANUARY 4, 201

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Keep Looking Forward In last week’s column I talked about reflecting on the year that has gone by, briefly looking at the ups and downs that we experienced throughout the year. This week, I wanted to flip the coin, so to speak, and talk about the future as we have officially entered 2019. Just like every turn of the year, many of us always say that we will “change this year” or that we are “glad last year is over” so we can start fresh.

I have talked in the past about New Year’s Resolutions that we tend to Will McClure make at this time and, while many of us stick to them, many others break the resolution within a week or so because we set our expectations too high or expect to reach our goals too quickly.

As a result, many of us keep falling back into old habits that we swore we would break at the end of the previous year and end up making the same mistakes all over again. Then, by the time we reach another new year, we find ourselves in the same cycle and repeating our problems.

There is no one solution for everyone when it comes to trying to change for the future, but when we stop and think about it we do live in a society where we look for instant gratification in every little thing. It has become such an issue that any small task we ask our youth to do becomes an entire ordeal. Something as simple as getting up to throw a piece of trash away is now such a burden that they will either just leave the trash where they are sitting or try to toss the trash into the can from a distance. Granted, this has happened in the past (I can remember a few of my own classmates have this problem), but it seems to have escalated along with other trivial tasks to the point where the only reason you need to get up is to walk to the next thing. It has become this way due to the need for instant gratification of certain tasks in society, which brings me back to it being the reason why resolutions are broken so quickly. We want things done right then and there.

Not two or three months from now, but rather within a week. And when it doesn’t happen when we want it, we give up.

The thing with having resolutions is trying to plan for the future. Sure, our resolutions can be simple and easy to obtain depending on what we want, but the long-term ones can have more impact if we just stick with them. It could be something as seemingly simple as trying to exercise more. Just because one doesn’t lose anything within a week is not a reason to just up and quit, it takes time. Saving money is just as good as well. We could be saving up to get something small like a new television or appliance, or we could be putting money back for that vacation we have been wanting for so long. I wish we can all say that we could put aside at least $250 to $500 every month for our big purchase to make it get here faster, but we all know that it may not be feasible. Even if you are lucky enough to be able to put aside a big portion of money each month, you never know when a big expense will pop up, setting your plans aside for a time.

However, it is okay to be able to have that small “nest egg” for that emergency if it comes up and if nothing does, then you have reached your goals. Whether it is the two examples I have just mentioned or you have another big goal in mind, you just have to have patience and stick with what you are aiming for. Things take time and a big resolution will definitely fall into that category. But as long as we keep looking forward instead of wanting it right then at that moment, we can build up our patience and still have a satisfying result for ourselves. After all, we all want 2019 to be a good year for us, so we should make an effort to start with our best foot forward.

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

THOUGHTS FROM UNDER THE CAP

A House Full Of Santas I walk into a house in White Oak, near Longview, and all I see is Santa Clauses. They are everywhere. Every room including the bathroom has Santas of all sizes and descriptions.

In some rooms they take up so much space there’s barely enough room to squeeze by. The house belongs to Sandy Rawlings. I asked her how many Santas she has.

“I don’t have an exact number, but I’m going to say close to a thousand.

And they range from teeny-weeny to life-size.”

You can’t imagine the feeling you get when you see all those Santas.

They are well displayed and you just want to sit down, have a cookie and coffee and look at each one.

“I buy a lot, I’ve made a lot. My friends and family are constantly giving me Santa Clauses. I am addicted. Instead of being a crazy cat lady I’m a crazy

Santa lady.”

Sandy also has Santa Claus table decorations and a collection of Santa Claus cookie jars, some of which are valuable antiques.

She spends three days decorating her house for Christmas. The decorations stay up until New Year’s Day. “It makes me happy when they are all out. I kind of dread it at first because it’s work but when they’re all out I’m just so happy. Sometimes I go from room to room looking at them. It gives me a good feeling to see all those smiling faces. I hate to put those little faces in boxes after Christmas. I always feel bad for them. It’s like

they were performing and now their time on stage is over until next year.”

Sandy has been collecting them since the late seventies. It all started when she bought one.

“That’s all it takes. Just one. If you like them. It just ricochets from there.”

She gets lots of visitors in December.

“I have lots of friends who have seen it over the years. I used to have little cookie parties and everybody went crazy over all the Santas. Every year

TUMBLEWEED SMITH

they ask me if I’m putting my Santa Clauses out.

I tell them yes. I’ll keep doing it until I just can’t.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without them.”

She has some favorites, the ones that mean the most to her.

“My favorite is this one here on this shelf. It’s the very first one. Then of course the special ones that my kids have given me. But I love all of them.”

Sandy has two Christmas trees. The main tree is all Santas, of course. I asked her if Santa is going to be good to her this Christmas.

“He’d better!”

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Classifieds Send ads and news articles to: office@americannewspapers.net or FAX 325-773-5551

HELP WANTED MAINTENANCE POSITION Aspermont Small Business Development Center, Inc. is seeking applicants for the position of a full-time maintenance person.

This person will be responsible for care and upkeep of the Double Mountain Coach vehicles and the facilities.

Applicants should have knowledge in preventive vehicles maintenance and minor building maintenance and grounds keeping.

Must also have a current driver’s license and be available for on call duty.

The ASBDC Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; all applicants will be given equal consideration regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation or belief.

The ASBDC, Inc./Double Mountain Coach maintains a Drug Free Workplace and Drug-Alcohol Policy Testing Program. Position will remain open until filled.

For more information or to receive an application you may contact Lisa Flowers at (940) 989-2239 or (940) 989-3538.

Sagebrush Living Center has openings for Direct Care staff for all shifts. Pick up applications at Sagebrush Living Center, 1101 Columbia St, Stamford, 325-773-2791.

TexSCAN Week of December 30, 2018 ACREAGE 15 acres east of Eldorado. County road frontage.

Gently rolling with beautiful oak tree cover. Whitetail, blackbuck, axis, hogs, turkey. $2700 down, $448/mo.

(9.9%, 20 years). Several tracts to choose from. 800876-9720, www.ranchenterprisesltd.com.

AUCTION

New Listing! 264 CR 169 O’Brien Nice Home and Barn on 10± Acres!......$162,000 1502 Compton 3/2/2 Ranch home w/room for horses! hardwoods, Fireplace!...$128,900 1210 Landon Nice stone home 3/2 w fireplace! ........................................................$106,000 1501 Hudson Rd Over 2,800 Sq. Ft. 3/2/2 rock home w a 3/2 apt...................SOLD 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 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 202± ac Cultivation N of Rule 10± O’Brien 3/2 family home, barn and tank! List price $162,000 640± 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 Shackelford County 200± ac Quarry income, Good Hunting!

Fisher County 631± Ac All Pasture! Rough Creek 370± Ac Canyons, Springs, Hunting 178 ± Ac Shinnery, Fantastic Hunting 1423± Ac Canyons Kent Co 789± Ac Improvements w Hunting!

SOLD

41st Annual Cattleman Bull & Female Sale, 12 Noon, Jan. 19, 2019, El Campo Livestock Auction, El Campo, TX. Adrian Knight Tx Lic #11102 Kelly Conley Tx Lic #9558. 903-452-7591, 903-850-3449, www.cattlemansale.com.

BASEBALL BASEBALL TOURS – See MLB Games at Fenway Park, Yankee Stadium, Wrigley Field, etc. Deluxe motor coach transportation, quality hotels and game tickets. Free brochure 507-217-1326.

CHARITY Donate a boat or car today to Boat Angel. 2-Night Free Vacation. Sponsored by Boat Angel Outreach Centers to stop crimes against children. 800-700-BOAT, www.boatangel.com.

GUN & KNIFE SHOW Texas’ Biggest & Best Gun & Knife Show! Jan. 5-6.

Dallas Arms Collectors Association, your store for personal protection, military, hunting, targets, ammo & much more! Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy., 972-369-6062.

INTERNET SERVICE HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data.

FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 855-294-6235

LEGAL ASSISTANCE Roundup®, a common weed and grass killer, may be linked to the development of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in farm workers and employees in garden centers, nurseries, and landscapers. Call 800-460-0606 for professional insight or visit www.RespectForYou. com/NHL.

OIL AND GAS RIGHTS We buy oil, gas & mineral rights. Both non- producing and producing including non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, Lubbock, TX 79408-1800.

SAWMILLS Sawmills from only $4,397.00 – Make & Save Money with your own bandmill – Cut lumber any dimension. In stock, ready to ship! Free info/ DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com. 800-567-0404, Ext.300N.

TRUCK DRIVERS Be Your Own Boss! Get Paid to See the Country!

Quality Drive-Away is looking for CDL Drivers to deliver new trucks. www.qualitydriveaway.com, 574-642-2023.

CAREER TRAINING

McLane in Fort Worth is expanding and has great opportunities for CDL-A Drivers, Warehouse, C l e r i c a l a n d Wa r e h o u s e S u p e r v i s o r s ! H i r i n g Event: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 4 and 8 a.m.-noon Jan. 5, 7550 Oak Grove Road, Forth Worth, TX 76140. McLANENORTHTEXAS.COM.

Airline Mechanic Training - Get FAA certification.

Approved for military benefits. Financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance, 800-475-4102.

FREON R12 WANTED: Certified buyer will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. 312-2919169; www.refrigerantfinders.com.

WANTED

Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 283 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads Start At $250 • Email ads@texaspress.com NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.

16 JANUARY 4, 2019

news@americannewspapers.net

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Great-tailed Grackle The natural world around us can, and should amaze us humans on a daily basis.

Many of the columns that I write are about animals that the majority of people do not realize live in their own backyards. However, there is a species of bird that thrives in west Texas year-round, and is one that is probably very familiar to most people, and that avian species is the Great-tailed Grackle.

The Great-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus) is a distinctive species of bird that can be observed throughout Texas. Outside of this state, it occurs north to Kansas and west to central California. It also occurs south of the border to Central America. Only the most northernmost populations migrate during the colder winter months.

With such a large yearround range, this species could be considered to be a habitat generalist. It apparently prefers areas that have some form of a natural semi-permanent water source, but human habitations with items such as pools and lawn irrigations obviously suffice. Its population densities have risen in arid areas of the southwest due to agricultural irrigation.

At first glance, Greattailed Grackles appear to be just another variety of black bird. However, upon closer inspection the subtle iridescent purple coloration on the head, neck, back, and underparts region really stand out against the black wings and lower body. The tail on males is quite long (hence the common name) is often described to be diamond-shaped in appearance. Males and females are sexually dimorphic, which means that they differ from each other in several morphological characteristics. Females differ from the males in that they are typically dark brown on the head, neck, back, and underparts rather than being adorned with the

WILD ABOUT TEXAS

By Michael Price

iridescence that males possess. Both species have gray legs and beaks. The bright yellow eyes are particularly noticeable on the darker colored males. Great-tailed Grackles are birds of moderate size, with body length of roughly eighteen inches and a wingspan of just over two feet.

This species of grackle is noisy and gregarious, preferring to live in large colonies of up to a hundred individuals or more. This is particularly true during the winter months when several hundred Great-tailed Grackles may congregate in prime feeding areas.

This avian species is omnivorous, feeding on a large variety of small invertebrate animals such as snails, insects, and arachnids as well as larger prey that have backbones including lizards, frogs, fish, and even smaller birds and their eggs. It will also feed on various fruits, seeds, and berries, and many times will steal these food

items from other species of smaller birds.

Males are quite promiscuous during the spring breeding season. It is not uncommon for one male to mate with ten or more females in just a few days time. Further research now shows that females may just as promiscuous as the males are. Males will put on a tremendous show for the females; this show compromises of a dramatic display of raising the feathers on his back while strutting, vibrating, and singing. Once the female has selected a male, breeding takes place.

In this species of bird, the female does the majority of the reproductive work. She will build the nest out of various sticks, twigs, grasses and leaves, then will lay the three to four inch long oval, gray blue patterned with reddish blotches eggs.

Incubation lasts about two weeks, and is done entirely by the female. Upon hatching, the young will remain in the nest for another three weeks, all the while being tended to and cared for by their mother. When it comes to taking flight, the youngsters are taught by, you guessed it, the female.

This species is common, and population studies have shown that its numbers are increasing. It is one of the few birds that many naturalists will consider to be pests, and many states will allow the removal of this species from gardens and other areas if it is determined to be a threat or a nuisance.