February 9, 2018 - Stamford American

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 9, 2018 THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 10, ISSUE 38 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 97, ISSUE 43 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 115, ISSUE 44

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Faith, Peace, and Love During Kings Court

BY ALLISON BIGBIE Wednesday, January 31st at 7pm the first Kings Court, which was more than warm and welcoming, was held at the SHS gym.

The FCA had opened arms to the community, local schools and surrounding areas in hopes to pack the gym for the moving experience with a live praise band, student devotionals and a speaker.

SEE COURT, PG 7

Bulldogs Still Undefeated in District Noah Horn brings the ball up the court for another two points against the Anson Tigers. Horn led the Bulldogs in scoring with 14 points against the Tigers. The Bulldogs won 53-40.

Police Chief Huston Gives Annual Report During Regular Council Meeting

BY WILL MCCLURE The Stamford City Council held its regular meeting Monday evening, February 5th, to discuss several property bids as well as hear the annual report from Stamford Police Chief Darwin Huston. Mayor Johnny Anders called the meeting

to order at 5:15 pm, with Councilmember Dennis Braden and City Attorney Raymond Hollabaugh absent, and asked Councilmember Jimmy Doan to lead the invocation. After Anders led the room in the Pledge of Allegiance, the council needed to immediately go into executive session to

discuss city matters due to a time constraint. As such, the council entered into executive session at 5:16 pm. The council would return to open session at 5:45 pm with no actions needed to be taken from the executive session.

The meeting then moved forward with opening the floor to citizen’s com-

ments. However, with there being none that evening, the council instead moved forward with approving the minutes of the January 16th meeting as presented.

The next item was the first reading of City Ordinance 815, which was the triannual re-adoption of the city’s curfew for Stamford’s youth.

SEE CITY, PG 4

Stamford Police Chief Darwin Huston presented his annual department report to the Stamford City Council during its regular meeting last Monday, February 5th.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST Callie Metler-Smith | Publisher callie@americannewspapers.net Allison Bigbie | Editor editor@americannewspapers.net Ben Gonzalez | Ad Manager ben@americannewspapers.net

Friday 71 | 36

Saturday 61 | 22

Sunday 43 | 24

Monday 56 | 38

Tuesday 65 | 34

STAMFORD RESIDENCE AND REHABILITATION

By Jayme Brattain, Activity Director

P.O. Box 870 102 S. Swenson Stamford TX 79553 325-773-5550 FAX: 325-773-5551 office@americannewspapers.net

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

MARK THE DATE...

FEB 10

SMORGASBORD: The Swedish Smorgasbord at Bethel Lutheran Church in Ericksdahl will be held February 10, 2018. We will be serving 450 people at the event with seating times at 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The tickets are $25.00 each and only sold in advance. For tickets contact Connie Shurley 325-773-3757 or Tena Tankersley 325-668-2796.

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

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.

Thursday 65 | 42

VOLUNTEER: The Stamford VIP Center is in need of volunteer route drivers to deliver Meals on Wheels to our homebound people.

Please contact Rita at 325-773-2337 Stamford VIP Center.

Gayle Lovvorn | Office Manager office@americannewspapers.net

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

Wednesday 61 | 41

We really enjoyed the Super Bowl this year. We ordered Pizza Hut pizza, cokes, chips, & ice cream for all the residents. They ate so much pizza. I couldn’t believe it some even ate 4 to 5 pieces. We were more excited about the food than the game. When I asked the residents who they thought would win, we only had 2 people going for the Eagles and about 5 for the Patriots. But most of them said it’s the Cowboys or nothing...Haha!

Now as most of you know we have had a new administrator Paul Chaisson for a few months now. He has been doing a wonderful job, and the residents really like him. Most people don’t know he is also a fantastic piano player, and he has been playing for the residents during their lunch. They absolutely love it. The residents and the staff will be singing along to all the different songs.

It been a nice change for us all. We are still needing a church for this month to host our church services on Sunday. We didn’t have one last month or this month. So if you would like to help for the month or even just one of the Sundays, we would love to have you just give me a call. Okay, that’s it for this week we hope you all have a blessed week.

Thanks, Jayme Brattain Activity Director (325)773-3671 Exodus 15:2 The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him— my father’s God, and I will exalt him!

The weather is provided for you

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

FEB 20

WOMEN’S FAIR: The 20th annual Town and Country Women’s Fair is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20 in conjunction with the Texas Farm Ranch Wildlife Expo in the Display Building on the grounds of the Taylor County Expo Center. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the event will conclude at 2:00 p.m. The day is free to the public and is filled with educational programs and creative ideas to promote agricultural food and fiber products. You may spend the entire day or pick and choose the sessions you want to attend.

FEB 22 FAMILY NIGHT: The Cowboy Country Museum would like to invite everyone to join us for Family Night, Thursday, February 22, beginning at 5:30 PM. This month’s theme will be Remuda Roundup!

We will have a short presentation about remudas on ranches, instruction on working with clay, and you will get to make your own horse sculpture in clay to be put on display in the museum.

So, come and join us, and the best thing is, it’s FREE! (Please note, that all children must be accompanied by an adult.) If you have any questions, call us at 773-2500.

MAR 1

CHAMBER BANQUET: The Stamford Chamber of Commerce will host their annual banquet on Thursday, March 1, 2018. The theme for this year’s banquet is “Better Together.” The banquet is open to the community and will include a meal, awards and a speaker. Nominations are now being accepted for one business of the year, one citizen of the year and a senior boy and girl. Tickets will go on sale in mid-February for $20 and can be purchased at the Chamber office at 107 E. McHarg Street or from any board member. Contact Caitlin Richards at 325-7732411 or chamberdirector@ stamfordtx.org with any questions.

BIRTHDAYS FEB 12th - Charlotte McCright Know someone who is having a birthday? Please remember to call us at 325-773-5550 and let us know!

Community

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

These Stamford Middle School 6th graders had their poem published. (bottom row) Lawton Terry, Deavine Hoadley, Angel Montanez, Emily Douglas, Ja’Kain Whittaker, Lainee Lefevre, Emily Blackstock, Jaeden Hickson, Valerie Silguero, Ellanie Clifton, David Jeremy, Kayleigh Suitor; (top row) Robert McEwen, Ethan Arendall, Pablo Guiterrez, Alina Villanueva, K’leigh Beltran, Ja’Saunte Neal, Jojo Flores, Chambree Lefevre, Quinten Pryor, Lorah Andruch, Emily Muehlstein, Adelfa Pardo, Caylee Ender, Aracely Delarosa, Macie Zuber, Leticia Garza. Not pictured are Bryson Bolin, Anthony Villanueva, Caden Hernandez and Kyndall Edwards.

Bulldogs to Face New Opponents in District Realignment The University Scholastic League last week announced realignment for the school year beginning next fall. In football, Stamford will be in 2A Division 1 District 3 and will face regular district opponents in Forsan and Hawley and former district foe Winters, and will add Ozona into their district.

Basketball season will find the Bulldogs in 2A Region 1, District 8 along with Albany, Cross Plains, Haskell, Hawley, and Roscoe Collegiate. A notable absence in Stamford’s District football and basketball line-up is Jones County rival Anson, who moved up to 3A.

Stamford Local Elections to Be Held May 5th Saturday, May 5, 2018 is election day for all local elections. The city of Stamford have three places on the ballot, that of Mayor, Council seat 4, and Council seat 5. These position is currently held by Mayor Johnny Anders, Dennis Braden, and James Deckers.

For the hospital is Places 4, 5, 6, 7 which is currently held by Erick Richards, Chuck Muehlstein, Kevin Corzine, and Wyatt Oakley.

Stamford School Board will have two open spots that are currently occupied by Jason Hall and Steve Garcia.

The filing period for a place on the ballot began on January 17th and continues through February 16, 2018. Applications may be obtained from the Superintendent’s Office, City Hall, or Stamford Hospital Early voting will begin on April 23rd and continue through May 1, 2018.

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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JONES COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT The Jones County Sheriff’s Office from January 26th to February 1st responded to 53 calls for service.

There were 10 Traffic Stops conducted. The following people were booked into the Jones County Jail during this period: Ophelia Monique Taylor, Display Fictitious Motor Vehicle Registration; James Allen Crain, Warrant; Lank Anthony Stafford, Warrant; Amanda Reid, Court Commit; Jason Cooper, Driving while License Invalid w/previous conviction; Sephrenia Minor, Criminal Trespass; Michael Moore, Hold for Taylor County; Brasten Dale Becker, Hold for Haskell County; Aaron Dewayne Marsh, Warrants x3; Buddy Whiteley, Driving while License Invalid; Jennifer Salan, Public Intoxication; Wesley Garner, Driving while License Invalid; Billy Reynolds, Warrant; Cassidy Eugene White, Warrant; Phares Chapmen Scarbrough, Warrants x2; Steven Scott, Disorderly Conduct; Melony Channette Brooks, Assault causing Bodily Injury Family Violence; Stephanie Lea Hill, Warrant; William Wadkin, Theft Summary of calls responded to: Agency Assist – 4, Alarm – 4, Animal Control – 3, Civil Matter – 1, Civil Standby – 1, Disturbance – 1, Domestic Disturbance – 6, Escort – 2, Fire – 3, Harassment – 1, Investigation – 2, Livestock – 2, Motorist Assist – 1, Motor Vehicle Accident – 1, Public Service – 1, Reckless Driver – 2, Routine Patrol – 2, Suicidal Subject – 1, Suspicious Activity – 7, Theft – 1, Warrant Service – 6, Welfare Check – 1 Calls Responded to: 01/26/2018 Deputy Soliz responded to a welfare check call. Calling party was another law enforcement agency requesting a check on juveniles at a local residence. Deputy Soliz made contact with the juveniles and caretaker; all were found to be in good condition.

01/27/2018 Sergeant Alfaro responded to a domestic disturbance call. Calling party stated that two females were engaged in a verbal altercation.

Sergeant Alfaro spoke to the adults and juveniles on scene and determined a physical altercation occurred. Suspect had left the scene prior to law enforcements arrival. Report was taken.

01/31/2018 Deputy Zertuche responded to a disturbance call. Calling party stated that a male subject was becoming agitated at their place of business.

Deputy Zertuche made contact with the male who calmed down and was allowed to stay.

02/01/2018 Deputy Lively responded to an agency assist call. Calling party, Child Protective Services, requested assistance as they checked on the wellbeing of juveniles. Deputy Lively stayed on scene until CPS concluded their investigation.

ESTRAYS: The Jones County Sheriff’s Office will post Estray notices on the Jones County Website. Please check the website for any Estrays and notify the Sheriff’s Office at 325-823-3201 if you have any information on an Estray.

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Big Red’s Liquor Store on North Swenson is now open. Gary Gibbs is the owner. The staff includes Manager Jenny Garner and employees Kajsa Lopez and Jeanie Mueller. They are open Monday-Saturday and have a drive thru for your convenience.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

CITY: Continued From Page 1 The ordinance simply reaffirmed the city’s stances that minors were prohibited from public places between the hours of 12:00 am and 6:00 am each night year round as well as between the hours of 8:00 am and 3:00 pm each weekday during the regular school year session. As there were no major changes to the ordinance, the council moved to approve the first reading as presented.

Stamford Police Chief Darwin Huston then stepped forward to present the Police Department Annual Report that included the Racial Profiling Report. Huston stated that the number of arrests rose from the year before from 242 in 2016 to 395 in 2017. 2017 also saw an increase in animal control calls with a total of 1,012, up from 754 the year before. Huston did point out that there was a decrease in the amount of stolen property with $57,774 reported stolen in 2017 (down from $93,743 in 2016), with $46,014 recovered. 2017 also saw 89,336 miles covered in patrol units as well as $8,007.06 in repair costs.

After fielding a few questions from the council as they read the breakdown of Huston’s report, Anders thanked Huston for his always-thorough report each year as the council moved forward with the next item on the agenda.

The final item of the regular agenda saw the council unanimously ap-

prove the appointment of Lupie Gonzales to the Library Board, replacing Barbara Harrison who is retiring from the board this year. The council then moved on to the large consent agenda that featured 14 property bids in total, all from one single bidder.

City Manager Alan Plumlee asked to strike one bid for the vacant lot on the corner of North Wetherbee and East Bunkley, stating that it would be discussed at a later time. The council looked at the remaining 13 bids, with Councilmember James Decker pointing out six properties that were near buildings that needed to be torn down anyway. Decker stated that he saw these six could be combined with the other lots once the houses are removed in order to sell the properties in blocks.

Further discussion among the council concerning the bidder revealed that the prospective buyer actually did not own any property within Jones County and that the bids received, save for one, were between $34 and $51. The council discussed the fact that the bids were low and that it did not seem feasible to let properties go for such low amounts, despite the fact that some needed to be cleared anyway. The council discussed the possibility of establishing a bid minimum at a later date before returning to the bids presented. Councilmember Ken Roberson suggested that the council approve one, or even two,

of the bids to see how the buyer would treat and handle the property. As such, the council moved to approve only one bid of $101 for the vacant lotand-a-half on the east side of Ferguson and north of McGown while also rejecting the other 12 bids.

The final item for the evening was the City Manager’s Report with Plumlee beginning by informing the council that the pipe was being fused for the water line and that the clearing is going well to help with the pipe installation process. In reference to the plant, Plumlee said that everything was moving smoothly with the installation of fence and new gates. Plumlee continued by informing the council that they were invited to the Cowboy Country Museum by Museum Director Luci Wedeking and Museum Coordinator Jewelle Kuenstler after the next council meeting on February 19th.

The council agreed to hold the meeting as scheduled before moving the meeting to the museum on that date. Plumlee finished his report by stating that he would be having a meeting the next day with the school and hospital districts to finalize voting contracts, as well as get voting machines, and that the contract was signed for the airport farm that morning along with receiving the first half of the yearly payment. With his report finished and no other business to conduct, the council adjourned for the evening at 6:18 pm.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

HELLO FROM COWBOY COUNTRY By Jewellee Kuenstler There are a lot of stories in the news today about celebrating your heritage.

Ancestry.com, 23 and Me, genealogical TV shows, all of which focus on helping you discover your roots. I believe, however, that your heritage can extend farther than blood relation. For example, if you are a Texan, no matter your ethnicity, you share in the Spanish heritage, it is all around us.

If you are from Louisiana, you share in the French heritage, and so on. So, today, I hope to help you connect with your heritage. Some of you may be a blood relation, but the majority of you will not be biologically connected. Yet, whether your family has been here 100 years, or 100 days, we all share in this heritage!

The heritage I am referring to is the Swenson family that first owned and settled an area that encompassed twelve counties in West Texas. But, for our purposes, we are going to focus on our neck of the woods. The story of the Swenson family is really the epitome of the American dream. Probably like most of you, I knew the basic story, like, “Didn’t they

have a ranch?”, “Hey, didn’t they start the rodeo?”. But to hear the entire story from the beginning has been very awe inspiring.

It has all the earmarks of a modern-day movie. The immigrant that came from nothing. The love story. The hard work that pays off in the end. Standing up for your beliefs! (I mean, Mr. Spielberg, you should be taking notes.)

I have been doing lots of research on the Swenson family lately, but the majority of the information I will be sharing comes from a wonderfully written book, The Swenson Saga and the SMS Ranches by Mary Whatley Clarke. The book was written in 1976, and through research and personal interviews with the family, she has woven a true American story! I plan to tell the story in a series of articles, and I can by no means begin to include all the awesome stories that she tells in the book, so if you get a chance you should read it. Well, here goes!

Swante Magnus Swenson, (pronounced Svante), was reportedly the first Swede to set foot on Texas soil.

His story begins in Lattarp, Barkeryds Parish, Jonkopings, Sweden, on February 24, 1816. (Just to refresh you on your history, Texas was a colony of Spain.)

When he was old enough, he was apprenticed to a merchant in the village of Eksjo, Sweden. This was presumably where he learned business, especially the mercantile business.

According to lore, there was a falling out between the boss and S.M., and in 1836 he sailed for America, arriving in New York City.

(In 1821, Mexico got its independence from Spain, and in 1836, Texas declared and won its independence from Mexico. It became its own nation.)

Some stories say he was dead broke when he arrived, yet he quickly found a job at a retail store. After about a year, he moved to Baltimore, Maryland, and took a better position as a bookkeeper for the B and O Railroad Company. No one seems to know for sure what spurred S.M. to move to Texas, but looking at the time period, Texas was considered a land of opportunity. So, in 1838, he boarded a ship and came on down.

His first job in Texas was in Columbia, which was, at that time, the capital of Texas. He went to work for John Adriance, who owned a mercantile business. S.M. must have really impressed Adriance, for after only a year of employment, Adriance offered S.M. a partnership. S.M. would take a wagon and peddle merchandise to the rural areas and they would split the profits. S.M. purchased an old ambulance wagon, filled it with merchandise from Adriance’s shop, and started on his way. According to personal accounts, S.M. was a very good salesman, extremely personable, and easily made friends everywhere he went. He also proved to be very successful, meeting a need for these rural families that

could not get to a town very often for supplies. The people nicknamed him the “Peddler Prince.” It was during one of these trips that he met Sam Houston. (Yes, the one and only Sam Houston. I get goose bumps at this part!) This chance meeting would begin a life-long friendship between the two.

S.M.’s peddler sojourns would take him by the Finckley Plantation. Here he got to know the owners, Dr. George W. Long and his wife, Jeanette. Dr. Long suffered from tuberculosis and had moved here for his health. He brought thirtyfive slaves with him from Tennessee to work on the Texas plantation.

Dr. Long did not like the way his overseer was dealing with his slaves, so he was looking for a new overseer. He was too sick to take the job on himself, but after meeting S.M. he felt he found the right man. S.M. did not believe in slavery.

It was a part of his new life that he did not agree with, but was confronted with constantly. S.M. had a dream of replacing the enslaved people with Swedish immigrants. Keep in mind during this time, slave owners could not free their slaves unless they received Congressional permission from the Republic of Texas, which was very unlikely.

Eventually, around 1840, S.M. did accept the job of overseer, as well as becoming partners with Dr. Long in a mercantile store in Richmond, Texas.

In 1842, Dr. Long passed away from his illness. His widow, Jeanette, returned to live with her cousin, Susan McReady, in Tennessee. (Remember Susan for later!) Swenson stayed on the Finckley Plantation and purchased the neighboring farm called Thompson’s Place. This was the first land that S.M. owned in Texas.

With Jeanette in Tennessee, S.M. wrote letters to her discussing the business of the plantation. Through their correspondence, a romance grew, and in 1843

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

Swante Magnus (S.M.) Swenson, founder of SMS Ranches and the first Swede to set foot on Texas soil.

S.M. was bold enough to confess his love for her by writing, “I have tried to be worthy of your respect. I do not dare say love, yet.” Jeanette wrote back that she shared his feelings. A short time later, she returned to Texas where the two were married.

Happily ever after? You’ll have to read the next part of the story to find out!

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

from out of town, bring them by! Our email is cowboycountrymuseum@ yahoo.com or you can call us at 325/773-2500.

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PCISD Students of the Week

Nominations Are Now Being Accepted For The Chamber’s Annual Awards Stamford wouldn’t be Stamford without its businesses and citizens. The Stamford Chamber of Commerce will be recognizing a Business of the Year and a Citizen of the Year at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet on Thursday, March 1, 2018.

The Chamber is accepting nominations for the two awards until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2018. To nominate a citizen or business, list the citizen

Kamryn Delmasso - 2nd grade

Dyna Knowles - 9th grade

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

The day started out so pretty and I was enjoying it, but then it hit with a bang and the air filled with dust and dirt again. Boy, it got cold in a hurry. PRAY FOR RAIN. Guess this is the big day for so many, the Super Bowl.

I know some folks really look forward to this every year, but some of us don’t get too excited. I would not want to be up there in that cold weather.

Just a reminder, The Multi County Retired Teachers will meet at the Orient Street Church of Christ on Wednesday, February 14, at 11:30 A M for their luncheon and meeting. This is also Valentine’s Day. The Hobby Club will be meeting on Thursday, February 15 at 2 P M in the Sagerton Community Center.

We still plan to have our monthly musical on the 24th, it all depends on the weather.

We are glad to report that Pide Dunham is doing much better today. He is in the hospital in Abilene.

Phyllis Letz stated that the First United Methodist Church in Sagerton had a great pot luck lunch today following services today.

The Faith Lutheran Church in Sagerton will be having a pot luck lunch next Sunday following church services. Come and enjoy an inspiring service and join us for lunch.

Jami Wilde of Knox City,

or business and a brief description of why they should be recognized. Descriptions should be no more than 500 words and can be typed or handwritten. Please submit nominations by email to chamberdirector@stamfordtx.org, mail to 107 E. McHarg Street Stamford, TX 79553, or drop them by the Chamber’s office located at 107 E. McHarg Street.

The board of directors will review the nominations

OLD GLORY NEWS

By Anita Dozier Wayne and Kara Briggs and Crete of Haskell and Matthew Pierce of Lubbock were all visiting with Glen and Helen Pierce and had lunch with them. Kim Lowack also visited in the afternoon.

Gathering in the home of Dale and Carm Letz for a Super Bowl party were Marvin and Brenda Vahlenkamp of Aspermont, Keith and Lou Corzine of Stamford, Diane Smith and Rita Stephens of Abilene, Shawna Vahlenkamp and Kirt Williamson of Roby, Terry and Laramie Letz and Brody of Sagerton and Doug and Debbie Vahlenkamp.

Members gathered at the Old Glory Lodge Hall on Sunday afternoon for their monthly meeting. President Doug Vahlenkamp called the meeting to order, Diane Smith read the minutes and Verlene Corzine gave the treasurer’s report. Doug reported that the Grand Lodge sent a message that the OG Lodge’s quota for new members in 2018 will be 5. Trustees, Marvin Vahlenkamp and Terry Letz reported on the repair on the water well

and select the recipients.

Recipients will be contacted and then announced at the Banquet. The Chamber hopes you will help recognize the great individuals and businesses that make Stamford the community it is with your nominations.

Contact Executive Director, Caitlin Richards at 325-7732411 with any questions.

and stated they had some bids and prices so they can begin to do some work on the well. Anita reported on the rental of the Lodge Hall.

Chub Richards won the door prize. Following the meeting a few members stayed to enjoy a pot luck meal. The next meeting will be held on Sunday, March 4, at 4 P M. Hamburgers will be furnished and ladies as asked to bring desserts.

Thought for the week: “Reality is created by the mind, we can change our reality by changing our mind.”

Happy Birthday wishes go to Ashley Thomas, Kyle Martin, Brett Hight, Chad Spitzer, Joe Castro, Brannon Manske, Maribel Garcia, Harold Bredthauer, Kami Baitz, Jesse Meier, Darlene Hold, Marilyn Brasher, Jacky Ray, Kelsey Pierce, David Jouett, Thomas Letz, Celie Gentry, Sadie Gentry, Elizabeth Womack, BoJenson Martin, Jon McAden, Kim Dorethy, Josepth Turner, Terry Spraling, Margie Fannin, Calvin Stegemoeller, Marla Mills, Abbey Dudensing, Anna Lynn Vahlenkamp, Tommy Smith, Mindy Howard, Johnnie English, Butch DeBusk, Dana Martin, and Sonja Denison. We wish you many more.

Anniversary greetings go to John and Cheryl Gibson, Jamie and Dana Harms, Robert and Norma McLellan, and Randy and Denise Cochran. Have a great day.

The Paw Print

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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Bulldogs Named to All-State Team The 67th annual Collin Street Bakery/Texas Sports Writers Association Class 2A All-State Football Team for 2018 has been revealed. Named to the First Team Offense-Tight End was Lonnie Applin. Third Team Offense Guard was Caden Mathis. Honorable Mention Defense choices were Linemen - Tim Chambers and Utility - Tre Mitchell.

STAMFORD ISD MENU Feb 12-16

COURT: Continued From Page 1 Those who attended Wednesday night’s amazing event got to see firsthand the positive impact Kings Court has to offer, which is exactly what the coaches and FCA members hoped for.

Seats were filled by students, parents, teachers, friends and locals. At least 12 surrounding schools had students attend including: Hamlin, Munday, Haskell, Hawley, Merkel, Anson, Paint Creek, Lueders, Rule, Aspermont, Albany, and Roby. Students from these schools also shared student devotionals.

The live praise band from Albany had the crowd standing and singing along with hands held high in worship. Listening to them sing good Christian music while looking at the crowd with smiles on their faces was just a glance of what the power of Kings Court brings to a community.

People from towns that we have played against or been rivals with were all united at Kings Court. Neighbors that may not always see eye to eye with each other were there, and some people you may not know much about could have been sitting in the seat next to you. People were there, all

together, as a whole, with a sense of peace throughout the whole gym.

With the original speaker not being able to make it, Coach Casey had asked Paul Wright if he wouldn’t mind filling the spot. I must say, Mr. Wright definitely knows how to get the word out, especially to the school-aged kids.

Paul was full of energy as he spoke to the crowd and spread his attention over every inch of the gym. He read verses from the Good Book and shared personal stories of just how good our God is and the miracles he’s worked.

After Mr. Wright shared, those who volunteered to help anyone in need of prayer or saving, found a place with Paul on the court. While the band played lifting music, people from the crowd poured onto the gym floor joining the volunteers who were there to help them turn their life over to God. Joyful tears were shed throughout the whole gym during the beautiful experience. Seeing kids of all ages being there for one another as they walk side by side having faith and believing in the power of prayer was more than a moving experience. It left chills.

The FCA raffled off benches made

by Paul Johnson himself, an FCA rep, which brought in close to $1000 and Paul Wright raising another $1000 all to cover expenses of Kings Court. What was left over is to be put towards a special scholarship that would send kids to FCA Camp.

Coach Ward, who is the Youth Minister and Interim Pastor at First Baptist Church, and Coach Casey both share the same desire as most FCA members, “to love these kids and do whatever it takes.” They want to give the kids stability by earning their trust and give them a positive example for them to make a difference. “All it takes is 1, 2 or 3 kids to make a change for others to see and follow.” The good news is, Kings Court will continue year after year in hopes more kids will grow spiritually and spread from school to school and town to town. We look forward to seeing what next year’s Kings Court will bring. Everyone is more than welcome and encouraged to attend.

Monday Pancakes Sausage Assorted Fruit Juice, Milk Variety Chicken Nuggets, Mac & Cheese, Garden Salad, Savory Green Beans, Apple Slices, Milk Variety Tuesday Sausage Kolache Yogurt Assorted Fruit Juice, Milk Variety Enchiladas, Charro Beans, Salsa, Seasoned Corn, Fresh Fruit, Fruit Crisp, Milk Variety Wednesday Biscuit, Eggs, Bacon OR Cereal & Cheese Stick Assorted Fruit

Juice, Milk Variety Frito Pie, Lettuce & Tomato, Cucumber Slices, Carrots, Cinnamon Applesauce, Cookie, Milk Variety Thursday Breakfast Burrito Hash Browns Assorted Fruit Juice, Milk Variety Meatball Sub Sandwich, Potato Rounds, Fresh Veggie Cup, Mixed Fruit, Milk Variety Friday Breakfast Club OR Cereal & Cheese Stick Assorted Fruit Juice, Milk Variety Pizza, Seasoned Corn, Red Bell Pepper Strips, Fruity Gelatin, Milk Variety

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Basketball Scores MONDAY, FEB. 4, 2018

Mixed Team - Stamford 15, Albany 27 (Season Record: 4-4) 7th Grade - Stamford 37, Albany 25 (Season Record: 13-0) 8th Grade - Stamford 18, Albany 21 (Season Record: 4-9) 9th grade - Stamford 39, Hawley 19 (Season Record: 9-6)

Bulldogs Still Undefeated in District The Bulldogs continue their undefeated record in district with a win over the Anson Tigers 53-40 in Friday night’s action. Noah Horn led the scoring with 14 points. Others scoring were Lonnie Applin with 9, Zach Duran and Peyton Bevel with 8 each, Trace Edwards with 7, Caden Mathis with 5, and Austin Ramos with 2.

The Bulldogs took a bite out of the Plowboys defeating them 63-22 on Tuesday, February 6. Noah Horn scored 20 points along with Lonnie Applin’s 15 to lead the scoring for the Bulldogs

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

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FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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10 FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

7th Grade--Season Record 13-0-- 1 Rue Dancer, 2 Hayden Henager, 3 Coy Lefevre, 5 Jeremiah Quinonez, 10 Cruz Cantu, 13 Amhrye Sea, 14 Jonathan Andruch, 22 Caleb Cole, 24 Stetson Koenig, 25 Dominic Vega, 30 Cameron Shoemaker, 31 Kyle Young, 33 Tres Thurman, 34 Charles Moore, 41 Isaiah Thompson, 42 Steven Cavazos, 44 Aaron Duran, 55 Alex Flores (Photo courtesy of Bearden Photography)

7th/8th Mixed Team--Season Record 4-4--00 Orlando Moreno, 1 Rue Dancer, 5 Jeremiah Quinonez, 31 Kyle Young, 33 Tres Thurman, 41 Isaiah Thompson, 43 Dalton Womble (Photo courtesy of Coach Edwards)

8th Grade--Season Record 4-9--4 Dylan Faulks, 11 Isaiah Gonzales, 12 Steven Ruzario, 15 Kolbie Proffitt, 20 Aaron Frohn, 23 Wyatt Heathington, 32 Tate Mathis, 35 Elijah Andruch, 40 Alias Huerta (Photo courtesy of Bearden Photography)

9th Grade--Season Record 9-6--1 Toby White, 3 Gerardo DeLaRosa, 4 Carson Carver, 5 Ryheem Smith, 10 Brennon Day, 11 Nathan Villanueva, 12 Stephon Johnson, 15 Tyler Wheeler, 21 Cato Macias, 22 Luke Thane, Coach Ballard (Photo courtesy of Bearden Photography)

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

11

People of Words…And Action

The recent State of the Union Address got me to thinking about this topic. I will readily admit: I did not watch the speech or any of the associated hubbub.

It’s a history thing with me. What we call the “State of the Union Address” is a creation of modern entertainment, aided and abetted by rah-rah needs of both political parties.

It is not prescribed in the U.S. Constitution, which requires only that the President “shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.”

Until 1946, this task was simply called the “Annual Message.” Thomas Jefferson eliminated the in-person address to Congress, believing it “too monarchical.” His tradition of a written report submitted to Congress continued until Woodrow Wilson returned to an in-person address. A primetime television address seems like tradition to us now, but only began in 1965. For the vast majority of American history, the Annual Message was merely an administrative update on things that had transpired and a request of things that were needed.

In 2018, what is our expectation from the State of the Union Address? A President (no matter the party) draws grand, sweep-

ing conclusions about accomplishments, takes credit where it may or may not be due, and makes ambitious requests for the future. His party cheers.

The other party does not.

The speech begins and ends full of pomp and circumstance. The opposition party gives a rebuttal, relying on standard talking points detached from the content of the President’s speech. Commentators breathlessly analyze it all.

It’s all more monarchical than President Jefferson would’ve cared for.

But then what happens?

Life goes on. Congress doesn’t begin a fit of inspired legislative frenzy.

The President doesn’t pursue half of the requests that were made. 12 months later, whether the same party is in control of the White House or not, it’s rinse and repeat.

The State of the Union Address is merely a symptom of the American civic climate. We value words and entertainment over action and accomplishment.

Fixing that in Washington DC is a tall task, but it’s a climate present in our rural communities as well.

We talk—whether it be in city council meetings, the café, or with friends— about what needs fixing and, if we have some level of influence, we might even say what we’re going to do about it. But do we?

How many things have you vowed to take action on in the last 12 months,

ESSAYS FROM WEST OF 98 James M. Decker and how many of them have actually seen action taken? How many items have seen real success or substantial progress towards success? We cycle back around to the same topics at the next month’s board meeting, the next year’s budget discussion, or the next conversation at the café, and oh yeah, we once again talk about what needs to be fixed and how we’re going to fix it.

Life is short. The months and years seemingly pass quicker and quicker.

Words are important. We must illustrate the ideas and goals that we have and set an agenda for accomplishment. But we must be more than words.

We can talk all about how we’re going to fix this or that, but until we actually have something to show for those promises, we’re no better than the feveredyet-futile discourse we complain about in Washington. So, reader, I leave you with this: what have you been vowing to fix or take action on? And how will you REALLY do it?

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

Stamford VFD responded to a fire at Stamford Lake on Sunday afternoon, February 4th. The fire occured around 12:30. and started from a pile of embers that had been dumped that caught grass on fire and spread to the trailer. The trailer was the weekend home of a couple that lived in Midland.

12 FEBRUARY 9, 2018

VIP MENU February 12-16 Monday Beans & ham, Salad, Diced potato, Cornbread, Pears Tuesday Taco salad, Refried beans, Spanish rice, Ambrosia Wednesday

Health

Roast & gravy, Mashed potatoes, Green beans, Rolls, Strawberries Thursday Spaghetti with Meat sauce, Italian green beans, Salad / garlic bread, Peaches Friday Cheese Burgerwith all the fixings, French fries, Melon

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Hiatal Hernia Should Be Addressed

DEAR DR. ROACH: Two months after having neck surgery under general anesthesia, I find that I have a partially collapsed lung. A CT scan showed “subsegmental atelectasis.” It also showed that I have a hiatal hernia, and that my stomach is in my chest. What can I do about it?

-- Anon.

ANSWER: “Atelectasis” (Greek for “imperfect extension”) means that an area of the lung is not properly inflated, so it is not helping exchange gasses. This is a universal finding after surgery, where the normal breathing pattern is interrupted.

We use a device called an incentive spirometer (one common model has three balls that can be lifted up with a deep inhalation) to help reinflate all the areas of the lung after surgery.

Two months is a long time after surgery to still have atelectasis. It sounds to me, in your case, that the lung can’t completely inflate because your stomach is compressing part of it. The hole in the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen, and which is the primary muscle of breathing) where the esophagus passes through is called the diaphragmatic hiatus. In some people, that hole is large enough that part of the stomach can go through the diaphragmatic hiatus and into the chest. This is a hiatal hernia.

There’s only so much room in the chest, so the stomach’s presence there certainly will collapse part of the lung.

The reason this may need to be corrected is not because of the lung -- most people have tremendous lung reserves and will do fine without one or two lobes of the lung, or even an entire lung; rather, the stomach can bleed or twist inside the chest, and that’s an emergency. You need to talk to your surgeon or regular doctor about the hiatal hernia.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I read your recent column on how brand and generic drugs regulate the amount of medicine in a tablet. Why do thyroid cancer patients need such careful control of their medicines?

-- A.P. ANSWER: Thyroid cancer patients do need to be very careful. Most experts keep the thyroid level just at the very high end of the normal range, so that the TSH level stays low. TSH stimulates the thyroid and may stimulate any remaining but dormant cancer cells. So, it’s really important to watch this carefully, as a frankly high thyroid level increases the risk of heart rhythm disturbances, among other problems.

DEAR DR. ROACH: You wrote a column on urine having no medical benefit or

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

By Dr Keith Roach, M.D.

purpose. When I was in boot camp for the military (1964), they collected our urine every morning in a large bag in a container. When we asked the purpose of this, they said it was used in medications.

Any truth to this? If not, do you know the purpose of collecting the morning urine?

-- W.R.B. ANSWER: You have me stumped. I know that in the 1940s, when penicillin was first available, it was much easier to purify the penicillin that was excreted unchanged in the urine than it was to extract it from the Penicillium mold.

However, that was not an issue by 1964.

I tried to look this up, but found nothing. I know a lot of veterans read this column, and I am curious if someone has an answer.

READERS: The arthritis booklet discusses rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and lupus. Readers can order a copy by writing: Dr. Roach, Book No. 301, 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient’s printed name and address. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu or request an order form of available health newsletters at 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803. Health newsletters may be ordered from www.rbmamall.com. (c) 2018 North America Syndicate Inc. All Rights Reserved

Opinion

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

No Need to Brag Hello, reader! I am writing this after the end of Super Bowl LII where the Philadelphia Eagles have won their first Super Bowl championship and their first championship overall since 1960 (before the Super Bowl was even created). Naturally, and this happens every year, THOUGHTS FROM after the game was over, social media was flooded UNDER THE CAP with fans bragging about the win and Patriots fans Will McClure angered with the loss.

I’m pretty sure that every other post that I saw was something or other about the game from memes, to angry comments, and also just plain bragging about the win. With that said, seeing as how this is the Eagles’ first Super Bowl ring, I’m pretty sure that we will be hearing the bragging for a while. I know when my Denver Broncos won their third ring two years ago, I was bragging for some time, but at the end of the day I am just a fan and not a player on the field.

All I did was cheer on my team; I didn’t do any of the work.

This ultimately brings me to my thoughts for the week, and it is concerning this concept of bragging. We all do it, and it is natural to want to brag when something goes our way. However, there is such a thing as too much bragging. In fact, going back to the Eagles, there were numerous reports of Eagles fans rioting in the streets of Philadelphia just because their team won.

Um, what?! What kind of logic is this where fans riot in the streets after a victory? It would still be inexcusable if the Eagles had lost, but this made absolutely no sense to me as you would never see anything happen in our area. While it is true that we do not live in a major city, we still have teams to root for with our young athletes representing our town. When the Bulldogs won their State Championships back in 2012 and 2013, there was simply celebration and, of course, a bit of bragging rights. However, after a bit of time passed the bragging ended, and we were simply proud of our boys and a job well done.

All I am saying here is that too much bragging just leads to arrogance, and no one likes someone who walks around being arrogant about something. This is especially true when you had little to do with what is being bragged about. Is there a time to be proud of an accomplishment? Of course, but consistently bragging about something for days or even weeks to come does no one any favors and it just makes you look like an arrogant person. So, it is okay to brag a little bit, but at the end of the day you need to be able to also show pride over bragging. If you are filled with pride you can talk about something without it going into bragging about it. If you show pride, then you do not need to brag as those around you will recognize it and, probably most importantly, respect that pride without you needing to “rub anyone’s face in it.” Enjoy the moments for what they are, whether you were even involved or not, and let pride win over bragging every time.

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

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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Liberty’s Taj Mahal Pizza Oven Paul Schmidt of Liberty is a retired chemical engineer. During his working years he traveled the world and became interested in cooking. He attended some culinary classes. He started creating plates of food that are pleasing to the eye. One is a bowl with 3 different types of soups in it. The bowl is not divided into compartments but the soups are separated.

“The 3 stay divided,” says Paul, “and you eat the soups in turn. I make cold soups using watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew melon. So you have green, sort of an orange and a red. It’s pretty to look at as well as being cool and delicious.”

Paul has a library of cookbooks and refers to them when he’s preparing a gourmet dish.

“I have a whole group of balsamic vinegars and olive oils which are interesting to put on dishes at the last minute to give them a little bit of a kick.”

When I visited with him he was preparing a fig and almond dish.

“Sautee the fig with a little bit of butter in the skillet, then stuff an almond without the skin into the fig. Add a little bit of salt and that’s about it.”

Paul is famous for his custom-built pizza oven in his back yard. He bought the parts in Dallas (which were almost too large for his pickup to handle) and had it assembled by a craftsman from nearby Dayton. It is not your usual pizza oven. This one is a monument to the Italian specialty. It’s a work of art.

He treats it as such.

“To cook a pizza the first thing is you start the oven three days in advance so it can heat up to its proper temperature which is in

the 600 degree range. And that means the tile on the floor where you cook the pizza and the whole inside of the oven. Make sure they are all at 600 to 650 degrees.

This requires getting up in the middle of the first night and adding more wood.

Then you cook the pizza for 2 and a half to 3 minutes. At the same time as you’re starting the fire, you normally start your pizza dough for the crust 3 days in advance.”

Paul keeps a small scale nearby to get the perfect

TUMBLEWEED SMITH

weight of the dough. He prefers a thin crisp crust.

He is particular about what he puts on his pizzas.

Stores in Liberty do not have some of the ingredients he uses, like whole milk mozzarella cheese.

Some of his pizzas have unusual ingredients.

“One of the favorite ones is asparagus pizza. For that I use an Alfredo sauce with asparagus, then sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese that has been freshly grated.”

Paul’s pizza parties are legend. He sometimes will have 25 guests.

“I normally plan on a little bit more than half a pizza per person. We have some red wine to go along with that, a salad and dessert.

My wife makes the dessert.”

Big Country Electric Cooperative Operation Round Up Program Accepting Applications for Local Charitable Needs Applications for charitable financial assistance from Operation Round Up will be accepted now through February 20, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. Visit bigcountry.coop and click on the Operation Round Up logo for more information or to download an application.

Who can apply for help?

Any local organization or program that provides vital community services. Food needs and food banks, shelter, medical and health needs, rescue organizations, educational projects, child care programs and other special needs are just a few of the ways this fund helps organizations and families in our local communities. Our fund has assisted the Stamford EMS,

Anson Meals on Wheels, Anson Lions Club, various food banks and senior citizen centers, area volunteer fire departments, Snyder Community Resource Center, Scurry County Ministerial Alliance and a host of other programs, to extend the reach of helping hands in our communities.

Families and individuals with demonstrated financial need are also eligible for assistance.

The Operation Round Up program is supported

by Big Country Electric Cooperative members whose electric bills are “Rounded Up” to the nearest dollar. The “Round Up” amount goes into the Operation Round Up fund for distribution to individu-

als and organizations with demonstrated financial need only in the counties we serve: Borden, Fisher, Garza, Haskell, Jones, Kent, Mitchell, Nolan, Scurry, Shackelford, Stonewall and

Throckmorton. Every penny stays right here at home.

Please contact Sarah McLen at (325) 776-3803 or at smclen@bigcountry.coop with any questions.

ROTARY CLUB NEWS

Cotton is one of the major sources of income in our area. When the farmer does well, everyone does better. Rex Ford, Manager of the Farmers Coop Gin in Stamford, talked to the Club about this year’s cotton crop and various aspects of the industry. More than half of the cotton was brought into the gin in round bales instead of modules.

He told of the minor difference there is in ginning this as compared to the conventional method. He talked about the price of cotton and how some cotton was affected by a fungus this year. Cotton is now under Title One and provides assurance of a fair price for the product. This year’s crop provided an average yield with an average price of 64 cents a pound.

14 FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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Classifieds Classified ads: $6 minimum first 20 words Deadline 10 a.m. Monday 111 E Campbell 3 stories, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 6 fireplaces!.Reduced $217,900 712 Vanderbilt Victorian 2 story 3 bd, 2 bath w/ shop!..................Reduced $111,500 515 Dodson Drive Nice 2 story, 4 br, 2 bath family home!.............List price $92,500 1217 Compton Gorgeous Stone home w/ 2 bedrooms, 1 bath....... Reduced.$69,900 806 Davenport Nice brick home 3 bd, 1 bath, 1 car garage w fenced yard and cellar!.... $64,900 716 E Oliver Great Family Home 4/2 /2 quiet area!.......................List price $59,900 1310 Hudson 3 Bd, 2 bath w/carport close to country club............List Price $57,000 916 Wesleyan Great 2 Bd 1 Bath Brick Home w/ CH/A and 2 Car Garage..$49,900 1403 Hudson Rd Cute 2 bd w/ 1 car garage and huge bk yard in nice area!...$34,500 412 E Handlan Clean 2 br, 1 bath with storage and EXTRA lot on corner!...$32,000 1609 Swenson new 1,200 sq ft metal building................................ Reduced $29,500 717 E Campbell great 3/2 on corner lot! Needs TLC!.....................Reduced $21,900 HAMLIN 48 AVE B Great family home 3/2/2 on corner lot!........Reduced $89,500 RULE 1501 Union nice Brick home w/ 3bd, 1.5 bath and shop!.....Reduced $42,000

FARM & RANCH

Jones County 704± Ac Clear Fork, Cult. & Pasture 165± Ac Combo livestock/hunting place!

152± Ac N of Trent Cultivation 155± Ac LIVE WATER! SOLD 38± Cultivation near Noodle SOLD

Haskell County 620± Ac Mule Creek Ranch Great Hunting w Nice Cabin!

545± Ac Pasture, Cultivation BIG Water!

520± Ac cultivation & pasture 160± Ac North of Rule, CRP 48± Ac Great Homesite & Stock farm!

Shackelford County 248± Ac All pasture, Great Hunting 181± Ac quail buffer & fishing! SOLD

HELP WANTED Stamford Residence & Rehab is looking to hire a Weekend RN Supervisor & PRN CNA’S, LVN’S, & RN’S. Please call for more info.

(325)773-3671

REAL ESTATE House for sale - 1408 Bartley, Stamford, 3 bedroom 2½ bath. Call 325-260-4913

Call us with news and ads 773-5550

Stonewall County 4,743± Ac Patterson N Ranch 925 ± Ac Pasture, Cul. Great Hunting w/ cabin 548 ± Ac Pasture, Cul. Great Hunting 483± Ac Half Cultivation 118± Ac N of Aspermont Fisher County 1,561± Ac Hunters Paradise!

631± Ac All Pasture! Rough Creek Area 178 ± Ac Shinnery, Fantastic Hunting Kent Co 789± Ac Improvements w Hunting!

SOLD

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Women’s Fair Scheduled – February 20 “If you eat and wear clothes, you are involved in agriculture.” This is the slogan for the 20th annual Town and Country Women’s Fair scheduled for Tuesday, February 20 in conjunction with the Texas Farm Ranch Wildlife Expo.

The Women’s Fair will be held in the Display Building on the grounds of the Taylor County Expo Center. The Extension Women’s Fair Task Force has planned a day filled with educational programs and creative ideas to promote agricultural food and fiber products. Plan to join women from Abilene and the surrounding area for a day of fun and useful information.

Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the event will conclude at 2:00 p.m. The day is free to the public and the conference facilities are accessible for the physically disabled. You may spend the entire day or pick and choose the sessions you want to attend.

At 9:30 a.m. we will “Quilt with Brenda”. Join us for this 15 minute session and see the latest in quilting with speaker Brenda Keith, Quilt Designer and owner of Quilt Shop in The Oaks. Her creative style will offer many options for making unique quilts.

The 10:00 a.m. session, “Living Well Aware: Essential Elements to Health & Happiness” will feature Dr. Patricia Sulak, MD. who is a nationally recognized practicing physician, researcher, speaker and medical school professor. In a motivating and entertaining fashion, she delineates the documented self-induced nature of today’s most common health problems empowering audiences to make life changing alterations to dramatically decrease their risk of disability and disease.

Each year, Medicare loses billions of taxpayer dollars to improper claims. This puts the Medicare trust fund at risk for everyone and affects the future of the Medicare program. “Healthcare Fraud” will be addressed at the 11:15 a.m. session presented by Jennifer Salazar – Program Director for Texas Senior Medicare Patrol. Three Steps to prevent healthcare fraud will be presented and all participants will receive a personal health care journal.

During the sponsored luncheon, CATO of Abilene will provide a look at the newest in fashions through a style show.

The afternoon program will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Detective Timothy Pipes speaking on “Self Defense Through Awareness”. Detective Pipes is a full-time law enforcement professional, currently employed by the Abilene Police Department as a detective assigned to the Criminal Investigation Divisions’ major crimes against persons unit.

Through various awareness tips presented in the program, participants will learn which actions make you a target to assailants and which deter them.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m. we will “Sew with Molly”. Molly Yarger, owner of SEW in Abilene will be stitching up a surprise to close out the afternoon. You will not want to miss this fun program where Molly will share what is new in the world of sewing.

Women’s Fair attendees will receive a SWAG bag of information, samples, coupons, and goodies. Local, area, state, and national businesses are providing door prizes for the event which will be drawn for throughout the day. A variety of vendors and educational booths will also be on hand throughout the day featuring information and sale items.

We hope you will join us on February 20 for the 2018 event in the Display Building on the grounds of the Taylor County Expo Center. For more information, contact the Jones County Extension Office at (325) 672-6048.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Keys to Faith Faith, it’s a word that is very familiar to the ordinary ear. We all have heard the word used before in some type of form or fashion.

Faith is more than just a word however it is a way of life. The writer of Hebrews gives us a great definition of faith, he writes, “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Heb. 11:1). When we say we have faith we are declaring that we believe what we cannot see and we are trusting a Higher Power to act on our behalf. The Greek translation of the word faith is “total reliance”. Having total reliance in something is completely trusting and believing that it will happen.

To have faith we are to have total reliance. The early believers in the 1st-century church age set the bar quite high on this term that we so easily toss around in our present-day society. If we truly do have faith in God then we are saying that we are fully relying on Him and Him alone. Yes, that can become difficult, but trusting in His promises is what He calls us to do (Rom. 4:21) Faith is not just a sweet lyric to a song or a cute sign that hangs up in your living room; no faith is the only way to Eternal Paradise.

The Word tells us that; “We are made right with God by our faith in Jesus Christ” (Rom. 3:22). Our faith and the measure of it is what determines our Eternal destiny. We also read that, “It is impossible to please God without faith” (Heb. 11:6). So in order to be on good terms with the One who created us, we must have faith that is not weak but instead is in full out reliance on His promises.

Sometimes it’s hard to have faith in a world where the enemy is always looking to destroy our trust in God. But without a doubt, the people who have faith till the end are the ones who will be saved. (Matt. 24:13).

Below are 7 key points that can strengthen your trust

PASTOR’S PEN

By Dalton Mathis

so that you will truly have faith to follow the Savior!

1. Remember that God created you in His image, special and unique (Gen. 1:26, Ps. 139: 13-17). There is no one else like you in this world and there never will be. You are who God says you are!

2. Watch over your heart.

To watch over your heart, you must rely on His help by getting into His Word and seeking His presence through prayer (Pro. 4:23).

3. Know that you will fall short (Rom. 3:23). You will make mistakes, but Christ will be there to pick you up and enable you to press on (Phil. 3:14).

4. Always recall that faith involves the knowledge that God will make all things work together for the good of those who love Him (Rom. 8:28).

5. Keep seeking God’s purpose in your life. Remember that whatever He has placed in your heart is bigger than you (Ps. 37:4).

6. Look beyond what you can see and trust Him in both the high and low times of your life (2 Cor. 5:7).

7. God requires you to be faithful, not successful.

If you are faithful, you will end up being successful in His eyes (Matt. 25:23).

If you can trust Him with something as big as your Eternal Security, can’t you also trust Him with something as small as your earthly needs? Fight the Good Fight of Faith!!!

Respect the Blood, Dalton Mathis

Pancake Supper Set for February 24 On February 24th, 2018, the Ladies from American Legion Auxiliary Unit 661 in Lueders will be having their Annual Pancake Supper in the Lueders-Avoca Elementary/Jr High Cafeteria from 5:30 -8:00 p.m.

The cost will be $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. As always , this fundraiser is to help with the ALA scholarship fund for graduating one or more graduation Senior in Jones County.

This year the Ladies will also be having a Silent Auction that will be going on at the same time that goes toward other youth programs and helping Veteran programs. If you have something to put in the auction or would like participate and bid on any of the items, please come to the event February 24th in Lueders.

If you are a 2018 Graduation Senior in Jones County and would to apply for the ALA Scholarship, please contact your school counselor or one of the ladies at the Lueders ALA Unit 661.

Letitia Smith Chaplain/Edu. Chairperson/Photographer ALA Unit 661 Lueders, TX

FEBRUARY 9, 2018

15

Family Night at the Museum The Cowboy Country Museum would like to invite everyone to join us for Family Night, Thursday, February 22, beginning at 5:30 PM. This month’s theme will be Remuda Roundup! We will have a short presentation about remudas on ranches, instruction on working with clay, and you will get to make your own horse sculpture in clay to be put on display in the museum. So, come and join us, and the best thing is, it’s FREE! (Please note, that all children must be accompanied by an adult.) If you have any questions, call us at 773-2500.

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

Common Ground Youth Ministry Paul Wright 219 S Swenson 325-773-3604 Faith Chapel Gerald Spalding 501 W. McHarg 325-773-2866 AM Worship: 10:00 Faith Lutheran Church Sagerton, Texas 940-200-0723 AM Worship: 10:30 First Assembly of God Family Worship Center Pastor Randy Rawls 1214 Compton 325-773-2435 Am Worship: 10:45 First Baptist Church Pastor Jacob West 214 N Swenson 325-773-2781 AM Worship: 11:00

Central Baptist Church Pastor Bud Akins 301 E Moran 773-2577 Worship: 11:00

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

Central Presbyterian Rev. Dr. Kelly Pigott 601 Rowland 325-773-3381 AM Worship: 11:00

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

MacKenzie Trail Cowboy Church Greg Taylor 325-513-2505 AM worship 11:00 Heart of God Church 114 E Campbell Joanne Ochoa AM Worship 10:30 Nugent Baptist Church Craig Thames 228-4457 Worship: 11:00 Nugent Church of Christ Nugent, Texas Ron Ballard, Preacher 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

St Ann’s Catholic Church Father Angelo Consemino 1001 S Swenson 325-773-2659 AM Mass: 11:00 St. John’s United Methodist Church Pastor John Erwin 201 S Ferguson 325-773-2561 AM Worship: 10:50 Solomon Temple Baptist Church Rev. Donnie Massey 315 N. Haskell St. 325-773-2213 AM Worship 9:30 Temple Baptist Church Jesse Morton 309 E Campbell 325-773-2550 AM Service: 11:00 Trinity Church Dr. Robert Wingrove 220 E. McHarg

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FEBRUARY 9, 2018

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Staff at Stamford Healthcare System wore red on February 2, 2018 for National Wear Red Day® which is a special day to bring attention to the staggering fact that each year, one in three women die of heart disease and stroke. Fortunately, 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes. Go Red for Women encourages all women to schedule a visit with their doctor to learn their personal health numbers including Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI) and assess their risk for heart disease and stroke. For more information and to schedule your heart health checkup, please call Stamford Health Clinic at 325-773-5733.

Residents and Staff at Country Elegance (above) wore red to support women’s heart health awareness on National Wear Red Day® held Friday, February 2, 2018. Heart disease is the number one killer of women with approximately one woman dying every minute. The good news is 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes like healthy diet, exercise and quitting smoking.

The Silver Fitness Class at Stamford Health Club wore red on National Wear Red Day® held Friday, February 2, 2018 to help raise awareness for women’s heart health. Daily physical activity and a healthy diet are key strategies to help reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease. For more information about the basics of fitness and how you can improve your heart health, please call Stamford Health Club at 325-721-2568.