May 10, 2019 - Stamford American

May 10, 2019 16 PAGES FULL OF NEWS, SPORTS, AND OPINION

STAMFORD

American THE NEW

MAYOR DOES EMS WEEK PROCLAMATION..................

SEE PAGE 4

Election Results The unofficial election results are in for the May 4 elections.

District 1 City Council - Johnny Anders 37 and (winner) Robert Wingrove 40 Stamford ISD School Board - (winner) Curtis Birdsong 153; (winner) Eric Strand 155; Mindy Flow 40; Riley Carver 147; Cynthia Wimberly 136; Matthew Duran 37.

Stamford Hospital District - (winner) Kevin McCright 187; Heather J. Buzzard 97; (winner) Sutton Page 196; (winner) Gary Decker 292

MARK THE DATE...

MAY 21ST

MEETING: Jones/Haskell Genealogy Society meeting Tuesday, May 21st at 5:30 pm. Please join us as we learn how to research deeds and abstracts.

Congratulations go to Nolan Baker, Daydn Titus, Quincy Johnson, Marissa Bryant, Zach Duran, and Trace Edwards for their third place video in the Project Celebration PSA contest. They received a $1,000 check on behalf of 2019 Project Graduation from the Texas Department of Transportation (Abilene) in cooperation with the Stamford Police Department. (Photo courtesy of Texas Department of Transportation , Abilene) TTHE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 10, ISSUE 50 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 98, ISSUE 4 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 114, ISSUE 5

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MAY 25TH

MUSEUM FAMILY DAY: The Cowboy Country Museum will be open graduation weekend on Saturday, May 25, from 2-6 pm. Bring your families and out of town visitors for museum tours all afternoon with a special Western art lesson for kids at 4:00. Melissa’s Mexican Food with Attitude will be here serving street tacos benefiting Cooking for a Cause!

CITY COUNCIL STORY....SEE PAGE 3

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NEWS BRIEFS

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST

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.

Friday 78 | 61

Saturday 68 | 59

Sunday 66 | 56

Monday 69 | 53

Tuesday 73 | 58

Wednesday 79 | 60

Thursday 76 | 60

The weather is provided for you

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

Letter Carriers Food Drive Coming May 11th

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 325-773-8057. 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.

BIRTHDAYS

MAY 14 – J. Leldon Clifton, Shelby Copeland MAY 17 – Marc Furr

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

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

The National Association of Letter Carriers will conduct its 26th annual “Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive” this Saturday, May 11th. Naddia Dhalai of the Post Office says for those customers wanting to participate, they should leave their non-perishable food donations in a bag near their mailbox on Saturday,

May 11, before their letter carrier arrives.

In the days leading up to the food drive, letter carriers will be delivering special bags along with your mail that may be used to make donations. Food collected during Saturday’s drive will be delivered to local community churches, food banks and food pantries for

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.

distribution.

While all non-perishable donations are welcome, foods that are high in protein such as canned tuna, salmon, beans and peanut butter are most needed. Canned fruits and vegetables, whole grain, low sugar cereals, macaroni and cheese dinners and 100% fruit juice also top the list

of most needed items.

Last year’s drive resulted in carriers collecting 71.6 million pounds of food from local communities, becoming the nation’s largest one-day campaign to collect food for distribution to needy families.

NOTICE

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

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

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

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Mayor Decker Declares EMS WEEK May 19-25

BY KAY SPEARS On Monday, May 6, 2019, the Stamford City Council met at Stamford City Hall for a scheduled meeting.

Mayor James Decker opened the meeting. Jimmy Doan gave the invocation and Mayor Decker led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. In attendance were Mayor Decker, Council Members Melinda Smith, Ken Roberson, Jimmy Doan, Paul Wright, City Manager Alan Plumlee, City Attorney Raymond Hollabaugh, City Secretary Kim Bryant and Chief of Police Darwin Huston.

Under the Consent Agenda: The minutes from the Regular Meeting on April 15, 2019 were approved.

The Council approved the bid for property located at Being the W 115’ of Lot 7 and the middle 50’ of Lot 6, Block 72, Original Town of Stamford, Jones County, Texas; being that property more particularly described in a Warranty Deed recorded in Volume 51, Page 208 of the Official Records of Jones County, Texas (R13439) from Henry and L.V. Vega (403 E. Gould).

Under the Regular Agenda: Mayor Decker read a Proclamation recognizing EMS Week with the theme EMS Strong, Stronger Together. The week of May 19 – 25, 2019 is designated as Emergency Medical Services Week. He encouraged the community to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. He presented the proclamation to Kara Pierce, EMS Director.

Next item was for Council to consider/take possible action on a request to operate a shipping container in a Single Family zoned area of Lots 16, 17 and 31 ½ of 18, Block 1, Sample and Frizzell

Addition in and for the City of Stamford, Jones County, Texas better known as 916 Texas from Vance Proctor.

The City Manager explained the ordinance and that 30 letters were sent out to property owners around the property giving them an opportunity to respond if they had objections. There were no unfavorable replies. Proctor is bringing this matter to the City Council after taking it to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Plumlee explained the variance. The Council Members discussed the ordinance and the variance. The Mayor brought up that since a variance is not possible, then should the ordinance be updated and/or changed. A metal building can be 325 square feet and the metal shipping container discussed is 320 square feet. It was discussed to further study the ordinance and meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission. Plumlee asked if Proctor is in violation of the current ordinance. The ordinance states shipping crates rather than shipping containers. The motion to table the request and table the enforcement against Proctor was approved.

Next on the agenda was for the Council to consider/ take possible action on the award of the Texas Water Development Board DWSRF Project No. 62685 – Contract B: Elevated Storage Tank Contract contingent upon approval by the Texas Water Development Board.

Scott Hays from Enprotec/ Hibbs & Todd explained the process, the bids and recommended the bid from Phoenix Fabricators and Erectors, LLC. It was approved to accept the bid from the recommended company.

Next was for the Council to consider/take possible action on Resolution 2019-4

MAY 10, 2019

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Stamford Bands Ends School With Concert SUBMITTED BY MICHAEL COPELAND

Scott Hay of Enprotec/ Hibbs & Todd in Abilene, TX gave their recommendation on a bid for the installment and related work of the new elevated water storage tank.

– Denying AEP rate increase.

It was approved to keep the same rates.

The Council went into Executive Session in accordance with Section 551.072 of the Government Code, deliberation regarding real property – property at Lake Stamford. When the Council returned to Open Session, no action was taken on the matter discussed in closed session.

The City Manager stated that the meeting to canvas the election results will be on Monday, May 13, 2019 at 5:15pm in the Council chambers at City Hall. Three Council Members needed to be present.

He stated that one person used the new system to accept credit cards to pay their water bill. To pay a water bill with a credit card only, go to http://stamfordtx.org and follow the instructions.

Click on City of Stamford.

The City of Stamford Epayment will come up, click on it and follow directions.

There is about a 7% fee from the credit card company to pay water bills this way.

May 14, 2019 at 2:30pm at City Hall, bids will be open for the raw water pump and related work.

Other matters in the City Managers Report: Chemicals have been ordered to use in the City Pool. There are properties that need to be condemned. The Texas Communities Group does title and deed searches for the City. They mailed letters to the property owners. He stated Lake Stamford has received about 3 ½ feet of water.

The Mayor stated that the new Council Member will be welcomed at the next Council Meeting, Monday, May 20, 2019. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Stamford ISD Band Program will end the school year with its annual Spring concert on May 20th at 6:30 PM. Performances will be done by the Beginning Band, the Middle School Band, and the High School Band. The concert will feature selections that each band performed on their Spring contests and some additional tunes. Each band will also perform a popular selection from the rock group Queen. Admission to the concert is free.

The concert is the ending highlight of a successful Spring by all three performance groups. The High School Band received a Division 2 (Excellent) in UIL Concert and a Division 1 (Superior) in UIL Sightreading in February. Many students also competed in the UIL Solo and Ensemble event in February. The ensemble of Brandon Campbell, Clayton Castro, Candice Frohn, and Carli Lefevre qualified for the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest in June with their performance.

The Middle School Band performed in the Cisco Music Festival in March. They received a Division 2 in concert and a Division 1 in sight-reading. The Beginning Band performed in the Clyde ISD / N-Tune Music / Prime Time Beginning Band Festival in April.

They received a Division 1 for their performance at the festival.

ROTARY CLUB NEWS Each year the Rotary Club presents a $1000.00 Scholarship to a senior based solely on an essay of 1000 words or less that they submit. The topic this year is “WHAT ARE THE TOP INFLUENCES THAT HAVE HELPED YOU IN MAKING DECISIONS AS YOU PLAN TO PREPARE FOR YOUR FUTURE.” This year nine seniors, Garret Arendall, Nolan Baker, Peyton Bevel, Nikita Bhakta, Zachary Duran, Carli LeFerve, Brittany Macias, Cameron Poulton and Melanie Ratheal submitted essays and were invited as guests of the Club today. They were asked to tell something about themselves, their achievements and their plans for the future. This year, the essays were exceptionally well written and it was difficult in making the final decision. We know from their leadership that they will do well. We can be proud of the Stamford High School Class of 2019.

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Lessons of Nehemiah Nehemiah is one of my favorite leaders in the Bible, for several reasons. If you aren’t familiar, Nehemiah was a Jewish exile who was cupbearer to Artaxerxes, the king of Persia. The king controlled the areas that formerly belonged to the Jewish kingdoms of Israel and Judah after they collapsed. Nehemiah earned the trust of the king, who permitted him to journey back to Jerusalem to aid the residents who were suffering and to rebuild the walls of the city.

I previously wrote an essay last year, “Walls to Build,” that discussed Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He did it without any experience and in something less than a safe environment.

Neighboring tribes were threatening to overrun the city and did not want to see the walls rebuilt to their former strength. The Book of Nehemiah speaks of the workers undertaking the job with a shovel in one hand and a sword in the other. I encouraged each of us to take inspiration from Nehemiah’s wall-building to rebuild the proverbial walls of rural America.

As magnificent as Nehemiah’s wall-building project was, it wasn’t ALL he did to rejuvenate Jerusalem.

It had been many generations since the people had heard the Laws given by God to Moses, so Nehemiah worked with the priest Ezra to restore the peoples’ knowledge of the Law and to restore their covenant with God. Late in the Book of Nehemiah, the people made a covenant with God to deliver to the temple their first fruits as a tithe to God—the best of their grain, livestock, wine, olive oil, and so on. This was given for several reasons. First, it was a sign of obedience to God, to give your first fruits to him, and be blessed for your faithfulness, rather than selfishly keep them for yourself. Second, these

ESSAYS FROM WEST OF 98 James M. Decker supplies would sustain the priests who served the people in the temple and would provide for the widows and orphans as a social safety net.

Our community-wide Easter service this year included a message out of Nehemiah10 and it was an inspiring message that has had my mind working ever since. The speaker, a local youth minister who had not grown up in Texas, observed that he wasn’t from a farm family. He didn’t have livestock or crops to give. But giving livestock and crops as a tithe to God signified giving the best things that the people had—the rewards of their time, effort, and energy. In those days, the temple was the center of the community. Life—social, spiritual, and otherwise—revolved around the temple. God called the Jewish people to give the best of their time, effort, and energy to the temple. But by that same token, he was calling the people to give the best of their time, effort, and energy for the betterment of their community and the people within it.

And today, we can do the same. Where do we focus our time, effort, and energy? Where we do that, our priorities lie. We may SAY we have different priorities, and honestly, we may say that in hopes of convincing ourselves to do better, but our actual priorities are where we spend the best of us—our time, our effort, and our energy.

SEE DECKER, PAGE 14

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

EMS Week Proclamation To designate the Week of May 19 - 25, 2019, as Emergency Medical Services Week WHEREAS, emergency medical services is a vital public service; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and WHEREAS, access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness o r injury; and WHEREAS, emergency medical services has grown to fill a gap by providing important, out of hospital care, including preventative medicine, and followup care; and WHEREAS, the emergency medical services system consists of first responders, emergency medical technicians, paramed-

ics, emergency medical dispatchers, firefighters, police officers, educators, administrators, pre-hospital nurses, emergency nurses, emergency physicians, trained members of the public, and other out of hospital medical care providers; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams, whether career or volunteer, engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills; and WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week; now THEREFORE, I, James M. Decker, Mayor of Stamford, Texas, in recognition of this event do hereby proclaim the week of May 19-25, 2019, as EMERGENCY MEDICAL

Stamford City Council proclaims EMS Week as May 19-25, 2019, during Monday’s City Council meeting. Pictured (left to right) are Mayor James Decker and Stamford EMS Director Kara Pierce. This year’s EMS Week theme is EMS Strong: Stronger Together.

SERVICES WEEK With the theme, EMS Strong: Stronger Together, I encourage the community to observe this week with

appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. /s/ James M. Decker, Mayor

Community Action Network Celebrates 55 years of Service 2019 Marks the 55th year since the Community Action Network was established to help American families and communities overcome obstacles to poverty. Over 1000 agencies across the country are working every day to create opportunities and transform the lives of their neighbors making communities stronger and helping families across the US thrive. Double Mountain Outreach Services (DMOS), an agency of Aspermont Small Business Development Center, is a proud member of the Community Action Network, and is helping families throughout its service area of Stonewall, Kent, Throckmorton, Haskell, Knox and Jones counties. Each May, during Community Action Month, DMOS reflects on the impact the agency and the network has had on

families. Last year alone, DMOS served over 3000 people in our service area, and the Community Action Network served 15 million across the country with immediately needed services such as shelter and food, and also long-term solutions like education and job placement. Community Action Agencies serve 99% of all American counties with life-changing services to help families achieve financial stability. All agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community.

DMOS has 2 programs.

First, the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) which has a primary emphasis on meeting the immediate home energy needs of those with low incomes and high relative energy burdens, with a secondary emphasis on reduc-

ing the energy needs and cost to such households.

The program consists of 2 components: 1) Household Crisis - Provides Utility assistance, service and repair of existing heating and cooling units or portable units in an energy related crisis. 2) Utility Assistance - Provides energy payments to assist low-income household to reduce their home energy needs.

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program provides the administrative support for all programs of the agency and provides information and referral, emergency services and case management. Our agency has a wide network of area service providers and contact persons available in an effort to provide clients with assistance as needs arise. The case management program is designed to assist clients

desiring to become self-sufficient. Staff provide budget counseling and assist clients to establish short term and long range goals.

This program can provide on-going assistance for the time necessary to achieve self-sufficiency.

DMOS is a member of the National Community Action Partnership and the Community Action Network, which was born out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. The mission statement of Double Mountain Outreach Services is: We strive for elimination of poverty in the midst of plenty in Haskell, Jones, Kent, Knox. Stonewall, and Throckmorton Counties, Texas by opening to everyone the opportunity to work and the opportunity to live in decency and dignity. For more information, see our website www.doublemountainservices.com

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

LUEDERS-AVOCA 5TH 6 WEEKS HONOR ROLL A HONOR ROLL: Aydenn Cervantez, Summer Davis, Noah Nieves, Christina Quinn, Cami Clinkinbeard, Savannah Mooney, Vanessa Watson, Ethan Lieb, Tobi Crane, Brittney Villanueva, Alyssa Herrera, Lexi Williams, Clara Hammmond, Logan Hearn, Alyssa Wyatt A-B HONOR ROLL: Hayden Falany, Eli Lira, Ellen Tabor, Gage Wilcher, Shelby Huggins, Daniel Jarvis, Grace Miller, Nicholas Quinn, Michael Acosta, Cole Clinkinbeard, James Gaspar, Samuel Fron, Jacob Gaspar, Jaydon Mooney, Mattie Barnes, Scott Eggleston, Wyatt Moorefield, Faith Ruiz, Tatum Crawford, Nathan Villanueva, Courtney Webb, Evan Lopez, Jacob Hammond, Hope Ruiz, Destiny Laurents, Moritz Lutz Stamford Diagnostic Services has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Ambulatory Health Care Accreditation. Stamford Diagnostic Services is part of Stamford Healthcare System and includes Imaging Services (X-ray, CT, and Ultrasound), Physical Therapy and Laboratory (the lab is accredited by COLA®). Pictured (left to right) are CEO Sandy Finley, Physical Therapist Lacy Viertel, Rad Tech Sean O’Hearn, Lab Manager Bill Lee, and our rural health clinic’s providers Jennie Rhymes, FNP, and Jamie Benham, FNP.

Stamford Diagnostic Services Awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® Stamford Hospital District recently announced that Stamford Diagnostic Services has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Ambulatory Health Care Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its nationally recognized standards. The Gold Seal of Approval® is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care.

Stamford Diagnostic Services underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey on March 19, 2019.

During the review, a Joint Commission surveyor with expertise in ambulatory health care evaluated compliance with ambulatory care standards related to a variety of areas, including coordination of care, infec-

tion prevention and control, management of medications, and patient education and training. The specific areas surveyed include: Diagnostic Imaging, Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasound, X-ray, Family Practice (clinic), and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PT).

Established in 1975, The Joint Commission’s Ambulatory Health Care Accreditation Program encourages high-quality patient care in all types of freestanding ambulatory care facilities.

Today, the Ambulatory Health Care Accreditation Program serves 2,100 ambulatory care providers, with more than 8,500 sites of care, which, in turn, serve more than 83 million patient visits annually.

“Joint Commission accreditation provides am-

bulatory care organizations with the processes contributing to improvements in a variety of areas from the enhancement of staff education to the demonstration of leading practices within the ambulatory setting,” said Pearl Darling, MBA, Executive Director, Ambulatory Care Accreditation Program, The Joint Commission. “We commend Stamford Hospital District, DBA Stamford Diagnostic Services, and its staff for achieving this pinnacle, demonstrating a commitment to patient safety and quality. Your passion, dedication and tenacity can ultimately improve patient care. Thank you for your commitment to patient safety and entrusting The Joint Commission to assist you.”

“Stamford Diagnostic

Services is proud to receive accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier health care quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” added Sandy Finley, Chief Executive Officer, Stamford Healthcare System. “Staff from all across Stamford Healthcare System continue to work together to develop and implement strategies that have the potential to improve care for the patients in our community.”

The Joint Commission’s ambulatory health care standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help organizations measure, assess and improve performance.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE: Emma Acosta, Harlie Barnes, Bowdy Caldwell, Cole Clinkinbeard, Solee Dubowik, James Gaspar, Bailee Henderson, Jaxson Jarvis, Brantley Silvas, Jaydon Mooney, Rody Neal, Ellen Tabor, Zurrie Taylor, Vanessa Watson, Gage Wilcher, Hunter Wylie, Michael Acosta, Ariel Barton, Cami Clinkinbeard, Summer Davis, Kylie Flores, Levi Pratt, Daniel Jarvis, Montana Pratt, Zaebrion Mays, Savannah Mooney, Nicholas Quinn, Jonathan Tabor, Bella Watson, Ivan Frazier, Matthew Willis, Mary Moon, Jase Tabor, Mattie Barnes, Tobi Crane, Scott Eggleston, Destiny Laurents, Moritz Lutz, Faith Ruiz, Hope Ruiz, Brittney Villanueva, Nathan Villanueva, Alyssa Webb, Courtney Webb, Alyssa Wyatt

ROTARY CLUB NEWS Since 1976, Paul Chaisson has been composing songs and putting them to music. One of his first compositions to get copyrighted was “In God We Trust”. This pertained to the eras of history for America. He has over 100 songs in his library, and he told the story of how he composed two of his songs---the other being in “He Has Risen” (a story of the first Easter). He also sang the songs. He had recently purchased a book on lyric writing and learned that every word in a song should be focused on telling the story. With this in mind, he has had to change some of the wording in some of his lyrics in order to best express his thoughts. Early in his career he had his own dance band and in the military, he was in the Army Band and has personally performed at functions for generals. It was an educational program.

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MAY 10, 2019

HELLO FROM COWBOY COUNTRY

By Luci Wedeking

Taking a break this week from Mary Whatley Clarke’s story about A.J. Swenson to share some more behind the scenes dispatches from the vault!

As I mentioned last week, I love the feedback and visiting with folks about these stories we’ve featured on A.J. in the newspaper. I have also been visiting with some of AJ’s descendants in efforts to add more to my research. It all started out trying to find a photo of Selma, of which I had been told there are not many.

After a few weeks visiting I have made two new friends, A.J.’s grandson, and A.J.’s great-granddaughter! We have all been emailing back and forth, and thanks to Eric Swenson and Christy Swenson Kreger, I am able to share some more photos of Selma with you!

AJ and Selma Sitting

Stamford Inn Receipt 1906 Going to keep this article short and include more pictures…

I love this photo with AJ and Selma sitting together in their rocking chairs, reading. It’s just one of those casual honest moments we all experience in our homes and it even looks like they might be sharing a newspaper.

Christy also sent this one with Selma and her grandchildren Selma Mathilda Swenson Taylor (left) and Carl Eric Swenson (right), the children of her son John Eric Swenson and Anna Mathilda Petterson Swenson.

Back at the SMS office, I was able to finally identify another photo I has suspected was of Selma, and now that I had seen these other photos to reference I am happy to confirm it!

This photo of her outdoors in the black coat was in with A.J.’s things. I just knew he had to have kept a picture of her, it was just unmarked and now she’s been identified!

Along with photographs, I keep coming across amazing artifacts, last week I found a letter Selma had written her son, Willie (later known to all as “Mr. Bill” Swenson), from one of her visits to Sweden for a wedding, back in 1911 when Willie was just 16. It included a smaller handwritten letter from Magnus (later known as “Swede”), Willie’s eleven year old brother, who along with

their youngest brother Randolph, had accompanied her on the trip. I will include Magnus’ text with the photo: “Mr. W. Swenson June 27, 1911.

Dear Willie I am at West Jargra now. I went with Uncle Oscar yesterday and drove logs to the lumber mill which Grandfather ust [sic] to own. On the way here when we was in U.S. we crossed a bridge that was about 3 blocks long.

And we went throw [sic] tunnels about from our house to the pasture at home. They have a cart that mamma a them had when they were little. The wheels are heavy built. They have little buggies with out tops.

They have 4 wheels. Two little ones and two big ones to drive with horses. The wheels on the buggies are about as big as the cart wheels that is the front wheels on the buggies.

Write soon.

Your brother Magnus Swenson” I have also come across some old receipts from Stamford’s early days that A.J. had saved in the vault!

The Morrow and Lowdon Bankers of Stamford Texas is from 1900, when the town was founded.

The Stamford Inn receipt from 1906 shows A.J. had two meals, had his laundry done and had a bath.

Guessing he stayed for some good cooking while Selma and the kids were on one of their trips to Sweden.

Hope y’all enjoy these photographs and findings as much as I have. They really make our history come alive!

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Selma Anderson Swenson

Morrow and Lowdon, Bankers of Stamford Texas 1900

Selma in hat and glasses

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Property Tax Reform Bill Goes To Conference Committee The Texas House of Representatives on May 1 passed Senate Bill 2, legislation proposing to bring property tax relief to homeowners, but the lower house slowed the bill’s momentum by tacking on 25 floor amendments.

If finally passed in the coming days, the legislation would lower the rollback rate for most local taxing authorities from 8 percent to 3.5 percent and 2 percent for school districts.

The bill also allows local option elections on proposals to exceed rollback rates.

SB 2, like House Bill 1, the state budget bill, is now in the hands of a conference committee of five House members and five Senate members tasked with producing a final, agreed-to version. Meanwhile, all eyes are on the calendar and the clock as constitutional deadlines set in and the May 27 end of the session grows near.

Gov. Greg Abbott lauded the progress made on the property tax reform bill.

“For too long, Texans have watched their property taxes skyrocket while being reduced to tenants of their own property. That is not the Texas way,” Abbott said.

“In the final days of the legislative session, I am confident this historic legislation, combined with additional reforms working their way through the system, will reach my desk where I will sign them into law. I look forward to working with Lt. Gov. Patrick, Speaker Bonnen and the entire Legislature to deliver lasting property tax relief to every Texan.”

PARTIES SETTLE VOTING SUIT Parties in the lawsuit LULAC v. Texas Secretary of State David Whitley and consolidated cases agreed to a settlement over Whitley’s Jan. 25 letter to county voter registrars.

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ed Sterling

In an announcement released April 26, Whitley wrote, “Today’s agreement accomplishes our office’s goal of maintaining an accurate list of qualified registered voters while eliminating the impact of any list maintenance activity on naturalized U.S. citizens. I will continue to work with all stakeholders in the election community to ensure this process is conducted in a manner that holds my office accountable and protects the voting rights of eligible Texans.”

In his role as the state’s chief elections officer, Whitley wrote the letter directing registrars to identify and remove from voter rolls non-U.S. citizens registered to vote in Texas. That letter sparked the lawsuit.

Plaintiffs agreed to dismiss their claims and the Secretary of State’s office agreed to issue a new advisory notifying Texas counties on a revised process for identifying and removing non-U.S. citizens from the state’s voter rolls.

The Secretary of State’s office, in following the new process, will send to county voter registrars only the matching records of individuals who registered to vote before identifying themselves as non-U.S. citizens to the Texas Department of Public Safety when applying for a driver license or personal identification card.

HOUSE OKS MARIJUANA BILL HB 63, legislation lessening penalties for possession of an ounce or less of marijuana, won House approval on April 30, on a vote of 103-42.

If passed, the penalty for minor possession of marijuana would be a misdemeanor citation, like a traffic ticket. Authored by House Speaker Pro-tempore Joe Moody, D-El Paso, the bill drew support from both political parties.

Before a final vote was called in the House, Moody said in the course of a longer statement, “Members, 22 states and the District of Columbia have passed bills like this and the sky hasn’t fallen there. Whatever you think about Colorado-style legalization, this isn’t it.”

HB 63 was received in the Senate for consideration on April 30, but Lt. Gov. Patrick, who presides over the upper chamber, indicated in a social media post that he would not allow the bill to progress any further.

REVENUE TOTAL INCREASES Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar on May 2 announced state sales tax revenue totaled $2.8 billion in April, an amount 3 percent more than the amount reported in April 2018.

“State sales tax revenue continued to grow, but at a modest pace compared to recent months,” Hegar said in an agency news release. “Increased sales tax collections were mostly from the construction and services sectors, while collections from retail trade saw a moderate decline,” he added.

Furthermore, Hegar said, total sales tax revenue for the three months ending in April 2019 was up 6.2 percent compared to the same period a year ago.

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MAY 10, 2019

KVRP Schedule

Friday, May 10 Game of the Week on Big Country 97 (and kvrp.com) Class 2A Regional Quarterfinals Softball Playoffs Game 1 of Best-of-Three Series Stamford Lady Bulldogs vs. Windthorst Trojanettes in Iowa Park Pregame at 4:15 pm... First pitch at 4:30 pm Game of the Week on Big Country 97 (and kvrp.com) Class 2A Regional Quarterfinals Softball Playoffs Game 2 of Best-of-Three Series Stamford Lady Bulldogs vs. Windthorst Trojanettes in Iowa Park 30 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1 Game of the Week on kvrp.com Class 2A Area Round Baseball Playoffs Game 1 of Best-of-Three Series Stamford Bulldogs vs. Eldorado Eagles at Hermleigh Pregame at 12:45 pm... First Pitch at 1:00 pm Game 2 of Best-of-Three Series Stamford Bulldogs vs. Eldorado Eagles at Hermleigh 30 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1 Saturday, May 11 Game of the Week on Big Country 97 (and kvrp.com) Class 2A Regional Quarterfinals Softball Playoffs Game 3 of Best-of-Three Series (if necessary) Stamford Lady Bulldogs vs. Windthorst Trojanettes at ACU Pregame at 8:45 am... First Pitch at 9:00 am Game of the Week on kvrp.com Class 2A Area Round Baseball Playoffs Game 3 of Best-of-Three Series (if necessary) Stamford Bulldogs vs. Eldorado Eagles at ACU Pregame at 12:45 pm... First Pitch at 1:00 pm

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Lady Bulldogs are Area Champs The Lady Bulldogs jumped off to an early lead in the first inning and never looked back as they became area champs by defeating Miles 8-1.

Laramie Terrell led the offense going 3-4 and getting on base 5 times.

Savanna Gonzales was 2-3, Jacelyn Bell 2-5, everyone else on the roster had 1 hit. Citlaly Gutierrez went the distance with 18 strike-outs and only

4 hits.

Honored as KVRP Players of the Game were Gutierrez, Terrell, and Gonzales.

SHS MLS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 3 0 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

R H E 8 11 1 1 4 5

The Lady Dawgs will face the

Windthorst Trojanettes in a Bestof-Three Series in Iowa Park. Game 1 is at 4:30 on Friday, May 10, with Game 2 following 30 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1. Game 3 (if necessary) will be at 9:00 am on Saturday, May 11. All games will be broadcast on Big Country 97 and kvrp.com.

Bulldogs are Bi-District Champs

BY KEVIN BARTLEY Thursday, May 02 in the first game of the best of 3 series, the Bulldogs snagged a late lead and defeated De Leon 10-7.

Stamford trailed 7-6 in the bottom of the sixth inning when Zach Duran singled on a 0-1 count, scoring two runs. Duran led Stamford to victory by driving in four runs. He went 2-for-3 at the plate. Duran drove in runs on a single in the fourth and a single in the sixth.

De Leon got things moving in the first inning.

Kelan Hodges grounded out, scoring one run.

Stamford evened things up at five in the bottom of the fourth inning. An error scored one run for the Bulldogs.

Lane Patton got the win for Stamford. He allowed two hits and zero runs over one and one-third innings, striking out one and walking zero. Josh Mueller started the game for Stamford. He surrendered seven runs on eight hits over five and two-thirds innings, striking out three.

Austin Stogsdill took the loss for De Leon. He surrendered four runs on two hits over one and twothirds innings, striking out one. Lane Powledge started the game for De Leon. He allowed one hit and six runs over four and a third innings, striking out ten.

Duran went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead Stamford in hits. Duran led Stamford with two stolen bases, as they ran wild on the base

paths with four stolen bases.

De Leon racked up ten hits in the game. Mattson Locke, JT Morris, Kevin Yeager, and Colton Smith each had multiple hits for De Leon. Locke led De Leon with three hits in four at bats.

123 456 7 RH E DLN 3 2 0 0 1 1 0 7 10 3 SHS 0 0 2 4 0 4 X 10 3 3 In the second game, which had to be moved to Saturday at Henrietta, saw the Bulldogs score in the top of the 7th to win the series and the Bi-District Championship.

Duran was once again hot, going 3-3, Kaleb Flick was 1/4, Regan Detamore 1/3, Cade Lefevre 1/2. Josh Mueller had a sacrifice fly.

Zach Duran pitched all 7 innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 run, 4 walks and 6 strikeouts.

123 456 7 RHE SHS 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 6 0 DLN 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 4 2 The Bulldogs will play Eldorado Friday, May 10th in Hermleigh at 1:00pm, and Game 2, 30mins after.

If needed, game 3 will be at ACU at 1:00pm.

All games will be streaming on kvrp.com.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Baseball photo by Leeann Mueller

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Bulldogs, Bi-District Champs

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10 MAY 10, 2019 SECRET SITES ARE ON USDA’S SHORT LIST FOR NEW HOMES OF RELOCATED AGENCIES The finalists in Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue’s plan to move two research agencies out of KASN AG REPORT Washington include “multiple” undisclosed With Richard Kemp sites in Indiana, a symbol of complaints of hidden motives and scanty material to support the move.

SANDERS CALLS FOR AG TRUST-BUSTERS, LARGE GOVERNMENT ROLE IN FARMING Fundamental change in U.S. agricultural and rural policy is “an absolute necessity,” said Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders on Sunday in calling for Teddy “Roosevelt-style trust-busting laws to stop monopolization of markets and break up massive agribusinesses.”

TRUMP THREATENS HALF A TRILLION DOLLARS IN CHINA TARIFFS Three days ahead of the arrival of a Chinese trade delegation, President Trump said he would impose 25 percent tariffs on $525 billion of Chinese products as leverage for a resolution of the Sino-U.S. trade war that led to retaliatory duties on U.S. exports including soybeans.

DICAMBA REVISITED: WILL CORN FACE THE SAME DAMAGE AS SOYBEANS? Dicamba-tolerant corn seeds aren’t available yet. But if the seeds reach the market, and tens of millions more acres are sprayed with the herbicide, some scientists expect a repeat of the soybean disaster, in which the highly volatile weedkiller drifted off-target and damaged 5 million acres of conventional soybeans.

HOW CLIMATE CHANGE IS ALTERING THE FOOD AMERICA GROWS From invasive pests and drought to longer growing seasons and floods, climate change is reshuffling our system of agriculture, reports The New York Times in a piece that summarizes how these new realities are affecting 11 crops.

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WEST TEXAS TREES AND LANDSCAPES

By Bruce Kreitler and the KWKC Green Team There are lots of ways to classify and talk about trees. They can be divided up into shade, spring color, fall color, long lived, short lived, spreading, columnar, hardwoods, softwoods, large, small, and etc. etc.

A lot of the different ways that we think about and classify trees depends on who is doing the classifying.

When you start trying to pigeonhole species of trees into various groups, you find out pretty quick that most trees fit into more than one category. For example, a redbud would be a low growing, spring color, short lived, deciduous, understory tree.

One of the large groupings that is pretty easily understood is deciduous and evergreen. For the most part, if trees have needles, they are evergreen. In this area the only exception to that would be the bald cypress trees. While the pines, junipers, firs, and cedars being evergreen is well know, there are a lot of trees with leaves that are also classed as evergreen.

We have a lot of species with leaves that grow locally that we normally think of as

evergreen.

One thing that is not generally understood about evergreen trees is that they do have a cycle of changing out their leaves or needles. Some of these trees will gradually change every needle on the tree over a period of a couple of years while others may sporadically change out some needles here and there with no fixed cycle controlling how long it takes before they have been completely changed out.

After all, that pile of pine needles under a pine tree that supposedly never drops its needles had to come from somewhere.

Regardless of how long the trees with needles take to change out their foliage, they are what really defines the category of evergreen.

Most of the time, they will have the same appearance and the same amount of foliage year round. The fun starts when we get to the trees with leaves that are either classified evergreen, or thought of as evergreen.

The leafy trees that retain their leaves either year round or at least longer than their deciduous cousins are usually not so steady in their “evergreen” foliage as the trees with needles. While the trees with needles maintain that normal year round foliage, the leaved trees, at least the ones common in this area, that aren’t deciduous tend to drop a lot of leaves in the spring. The best example of this is the live oaks.

Even though we think of live oaks as evergreen, what they really do is dump almost all of their canopy very quickly in the spring and re-foliate just as quickly.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

They will grow the blooms that will become acorns, drop their leaves, grow new leaves and drop the blooms all in less than a month.

Sometimes this process only takes a couple of weeks.

What this develops into for the homeowner is a big mess of leaves and blooms that need to be cleaned up in the spring. I refer to this process as molting, and I think that describes it pretty well. While the live oaks are doing this, they don’t look healthy or attractive. Fortunately, since the process is over quickly, the healthy ones regain that nice live oak canopy early in the spring and look good for the rest of the year.

Most of the year, people that own large live oak trees really like them. These trees are statuesque, cast good shade, have an interesting shape, and are long lived specimen trees. A good live oak can really add to a landscape. This time of year, when the live oaks are in this “molt” stage, the owners aren’t quite as pleased with their trees. Especially if they have an enclosed yard that is knee deep in leaves and blooms from a tree that is supposed to be evergreen.

If you have a yard with a mix of live oaks and deciduous trees like elms or ashes, then you will also have the pleasure of raking leaves in both the fall and the spring.

While magnolia trees tend to hang on to their leaves for more than one year, they do drop more of them in the spring than at any other time. With the size and toughness of the magnolia leaves, a few extra of them on the ground goes a long way. Still, with the large white fragrant flowers that

magnolias have, I think a little bit of extra leaf litter can be forgiven.

Some trees are evergreen in warmer regions and deciduous in colder regions.

Both the lacy oak and the monterrey oak will either keep their foliage all winter here or keep it through most of the winter before dropping it in January or February. If these same trees, and indeed the southern magnolia, were planted further north, they would drop leaves in the fall like any other deciduous tree.

Both of these trees are good quality oaks and in my opinion, underutilized in this area.

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

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

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MAY 10, 2019

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Kindness Goes Far Recently I found a video on YouTube that really caught my attention with a very powerful message. The video was of a TEDTalk speech, which are always good in my opinion so I was intrigued there, and the title of the video was simple: “I Was Almost a School Shooter.”

Naturally, the title really took THOUGHTS FROM me off guard, and I immediately clicked it to see the speech of a UNDER THE CAP man who had gone through a rough childhood. I would highly Will McClure recommend each and every one of you out there to seek out this video and watch it for yourselves; it is that powerful. To briefly summarize, the man had been raised by drug-addicted, abusive parents and had to constantly be the “new kid” in school as his parents had to always move from one place to the next. Consequently, he was bullied a lot and soon began acting out. At one point he mentions even going as far as to cutting himself and soon wanting to get a gun to take out his anger. However, he was stopped from doing so by a simple act of kindness from a friend that he had stolen from and lied to. He said that it wasn’t forceful like “is there anything I can do for you?” Instead, it was “come on in, have a seat and let’s watch a movie.” As a result of this kindness from someone who he thought would turn his back on him, the man turned his life around and is now a husband and father to four children. And that friend? They are still friends to this day, and he was in the audience for the speech.

I know I gave away the entire video here, but the story is that important to hear as well as the final message the man gave: give love to those that deserve it the least. To me, this was so important to hear that I ended up sharing the video with my fellow teachers at school. We live in a time where so many people are dealing with hardship and others cannot stop to understand what is happening. As a result, a few days of a bad attitude and behavior can be seen as a “threat” instead of someone just going through a rough patch. Instead of showing kindness, many call the police when what a person needed most was someone to talk to. I’m not even talking about going to therapy; it could be something as simple as “hey, sit down for a minute I want to show you this funny video I found.” Nothing intrusive, nothing pushy, just kindness.

It is true that we have to experience bad attitudes and rude behavior on an almost daily basis, but how we react is how a difference can be made. This is especially important with children as so many have to come from broken homes and parents that just do not care; heartbreaking situations that many of us cannot even begin to imagine. As a result, many of these kids choose to act out in school simply because they crave attention as they do not get it at home. For some, a bad month could turn into a lifetime of legal trouble just because an adult saw them as a “threat” instead of showing kindness. We can all have bad days, and for some the days can become weeks and even months. However, no matter what we see or what is done to us by these individuals, we need to be the source of kindness no matter what they have done, especially when this person happens to be a child or teenager. We can never really know how our actions can make a lasting impact, so let us make sure that we are trying to instill a positive change and make sure that we give love to those that deserve it the least.

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

A Poem For Mother’s Day Gary Penney of Lorena writes and recites cowboy poetry. He has performed his work at some of the most prestigious cowboy poetry gatherings in the country. An Arizona artist, Marla Sellers, was working on a book of her paintings and asked Gary to write some verse for the book. One poem is called WRAPPED IN LOVE. “I came across a picture taken forty years ago. The picture was my mother; you could see her youthful glow.

She wore a skirt of turquoise and a blouse of snowy white, a blue shawl draped around her and her hair was combed just right.

The shawl had been a present given on her wedding day. She shared it with her children in a very special way.

I gazed upon this picture and my eyes filled up with tears as I thought of

all the good times that we had throughout the years.

A hearty western woman with a dedicated life, she had been a perfect mother and a most deserving wife.

She’d raised six lovely daughters and a lone endearing son. Her work seemed never ending, yet she could never be outdone.

She was our daddy’s helpmate, working cows and busting sod. Time was made for each of us and her Sundays went to God. She read her Holy Bible the way that we all ought.

Her life could be a lesson of how we should all be taught.

We were raised on hope and faith with our God’s love from above. It bound us all together as a family filled with love.

She used to call us kids together and take that old blue shawl and wrap us in her loving arms to make each of us feel small.

Even when we left her home and took jobs earning wages, we were still her babies, regardless of our ages.

TUMBLEWEED SMITH

We’d all come back to visit, though at times it got real sad. Her mind had started failing and her health was turning bad.

Father time had come acalling, as he’s always apt to do. He tapped her on the shoulder and said this time I’ve come for you.

The last time that I saw her she was peaceful in her bed. She looked directly at me and this is what she said: You know that I’ve been ready and I’ve heard God softly call: come to me my loving child let me wrap you in my shawl. “

Yippehay, yippiwho.....all righty, all righty It’s not every day a guy turns ninety!

Come help celebrate the 90th birthday of Johnny Goodwin, Saturday, May 11, 2019 at Stamford VFW Post # 9179, Stamford, TX 79553 from 4:00-6:00pm. Come join us for a fabulous time with family, friends, food, music, eats, drinks, cake, laughter, and love. RSVP: Jacki Lott 361-4636096 or LaToshia Ignont 361-461-4241

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Well, we have had a lot of stormy weather and lot of rain. I don’t mind the rain, but I wish the storms would quit. We don’t need that hail. Everything is so pretty and green and the wild flowers have done so well, better than I have ever seen.

Don’t forget Mother’s Day coming on Sunday.

There will be a lot of gatherings for many families.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers.

Sybil Krendrick, (who lives in down town Old Glory) is so pleased to announce the arrival of a new great granddaughter, Ryley Jean-ne Mitchell, born on May 1 weighing 5 pounds and 10 ounces, 18 inches long. The proud parents are Clay and Whitney Mitchell of Stanton, TX. Maternal grandparents are Garry and Julie (Hawkins) Hull, also of Stanton. She has a great aunt and uncle, Jan and D P Harris, that live near Old Glory. Little Ryley has lot of relatives in and around Aspermont. Congratulations to the proud family.

Just a reminder that our musical will be on Saturday the 25th. Mark your calendar.

Charles and Sue Day of Decatur came to visit her sister-in-law, Mittie Dunham

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MAY 10, 2019 13

Six members of the Jones County Extension Education Association (EEA) recently attended and hosted the District 7 EEA Spring Conference and Retreat at the Texas 4-H Conference Center on Lake Brownwood. Pictured above are Denise Roberts, Barbara Shaw, Dona Morgan, Debbie Hailey, and Carla Vest, all members of the Sunshine EEA Club. Also attending was Amie Price, of the Compere EEA Club. The theme of the Conference was “Earth, Wind, Fire and Rain,” with featured speaker, Randy Turner, former television meteorologist in Abilene. Other activities included Cultural Arts Contest, Nature Scavenger Hunt, Rock Painting, Business Meeting, Silent and Live Auctions, and more. Nine other counties in District 7 EEA attended, including Lampasas County EEA, who co-hosted the event.

Featured in the background is a mural representing the theme, which was painted by Jones County artist, Linda Holland. If you are interested in learning more about the Extension Education clubs in Jones County, call the Jones County AgriLife Extension office at 325-823-2432.

the beautiful on Monday.

Paramount Wednesday Theatre in Sybil KenAbilene on dricks and Friday eveMittie Dunham ning. It was enjoyed a day an amazing out in Asperproducmont, running tion and we errands and going to the OLD GLORY NEWS enjoyed it very much.

Library. On Following Saturday Mittie

By Anita Dozier the program went to Sybil’s I spent the and helped her night with Marcie. set out some plants.

Approximately twenty On Sunday, Clint and members attended the Old Misty Jones honored their Glory Lodge monthly meetson, Levi Jones, with a ing at the Lodge Hall on graduation dinner at the Sunday afternoon. PresiCentral Baptist Church in dent Doug Vahlenkamp led Aspermont. Mittie enjoyed the group in the Pledge of the dinner and fellowship.

Allegiance to both flags.

Laynee New and Hazelee A moment of silence was New of Haskell spent Saturday and Saturday night with held for a member that had recently passed, Helen Lehtheir grandparents, Dale rmann. The minutes were and Carm Letz. Sunday read and treasurer’s report afternoon, Dale and Carm given. A discussion was were in Munday where they held on getting the inside of attended the dance recital the Lodge building painted. in which granddaughter, The trustees will be calling Darbee New, took part. for a work day to get the Phyllis Letz was in air conditioners ready for Abilene on Tuesday to pick summer. up Jana’s grandchildren Members present with from school while Jana birthdays in May were Gary was busy with tests. Jana Teichelman, Doug Vahlenis Phyllis and Danny’s kamp, and Don Pyron. daughter.

Anniversaries included Daughter, Marcie Tucker, Marvin and Brenda Vahlenand I attended the Celebrakamp and Doug and Debbie tion Singers production at

Vahlenkamp. Diane Smith won the door prize. Following the meeting the group enjoyed games and a delicious meal of salads and desserts. The next meeting will be held on Sunday, June 2 and the evening meal will be sandwiches and desserts furnished by the members.

Thought for the week: “Success consists of going from failure to failure without the loss of enthusiasm.

Try not to become a man of success, but rather a man of value.”

Happy Birthday wishes go to Brittany Weaver, Gabriel Vahlenkamp, Megan Hertel, Valton Schmidt, Caylee Ender, Terry Morris, Gary Teichelman, Hazelee New, Katie Yarbrough, Sam Fouts, Diane Barbee, Brayden Smith, Philip Manske, Tarah Toney, Kathy Teichelman, Julie DeBusk, and Emmett Dudensing. We wish you many more.

Anniversary greetings go to Gene and Cinda Flanary.

Have a wonderful day.

Oliver Elementary will offer an ESL program for LEP (Limited English Proficient) students during the summer of 2019. An eight week summer program will be offered for students who will be eligible for admission to kindergarten or first grade at the beginning of the next school year.

This program will begin Mon. June 3rd and will end on July 25th. The hours will be from 8:30 until 11:30. Transportation will not be provided.

For more information, please contact Kyle Chambers or Sandy Templeton at the Oliver Office #325-773-5713.

Oliver Elementary ofrecerá un programa de ESL para estudiantes de LEP (con dominio del inglés limitado) durante el verano de 2019. Se ofrecerá un programa de ocho semanas de verano para los estudiantes que serán elegibles para la admisión a kindergarten o primer grado al comienzo del próximo año escolar. Este programa comenzará el lunes 3 de junio y finalizará el 25 de julio. El horario será de 8:30 hasta 11:30. No se proporcionará transporte.

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con Kyle Chambers o Sandy Templeton en el Oliver Office #325773-5713.

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Spring- Shifting Gears I love the month of May. I love this month because it signals something new is about to start.

School is letting out, flowers are starting to bloom, and everything is just so green. I love this transitional period because I can feel the weight lifted off my shoulders that has stacked up throughout the school year.

It feels like freedom. Freedom from all the things that have been dragging me down and keeping me in a rut. I can relate to the plants that get to blossom, to the sun that can shine brighter (and warmer), and to the endless number of insects (unfortunately) who now feel free to emerge from their winter hiatus. My body and mind operate at their best during this time of year as I embrace this freedom with open arms.

You may not share this same enthusiasm for this month as I do (puns are hard to do in writing), but hopefully you do have a time of the year where you experience this kind of transi-

PASTOR’S PEN

By Jarrell Cunningham Youth Minister at the Church of Christ tion and freedom. It’s a cool feeling honestly, it’s empowering and life giving. The feeling of something new, the feeling of adventure and opportunity.

It helps us not only survive our time on this planet, but to thrive and genuinely enjoy it.

Whatever this time may bring for you, there is always a bigger picture to consider. The cool thing is, God invites us into His bigger picture. As Christians, springtime also signals the celebration of something truly marvelous and awe-inspiring, Easter. While we had Easter Sunday, we are still in the season of Easter for the next several weeks and this has me thinking about what this time was like for the people living in and around Jerusalem almost

two-thousand years ago. The heartbreak, the sadness, the confusion, the joy, and the melancholy they must have felt as they watched what happened to this man named Jesus. The Gospels take us on a roller coaster ride through the trial, execution, and resurrection of Jesus.

And this story is so significant and so important because what happened during this time, changed the course of human history forever. This first Easter season released an entirely new form of freedom to all humankind. It created a table everyone is invited to sit and eat at. This new freedom, quite literally, changed the world. It changed how people viewed the world, how people interacted with one another, and what people knew about God. The cool thing about this, is it changed the world twothousand years ago. And it has continued to change the world in each subsequent day.

It changed the world yesterday, today, and it will again tomorrow. We have been given the gift of ultimate freedom. Our

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

freedom is found in communion with God and with God’s people. We have the freedom to sow love where there is hatred, light where there is darkness, hope where there is despair, and unity where there is division. The freedom offered

by Jesus transcends physical borders, political parties, skin color, social status, disabilities, and everything in between.

We have been given a gift, a gift that is truly one-of-a-kind.

So, in this time of transition, in this time where we see the beauty of the earth, and in this time where we celebrate the life, legacy, and continued impact of our savior; my hope is you cherish this gift. I hope you cherish it and you use it. Use it to love, care, forgive, and heal. Use it to spark change, in the same ways that Jesus did. Use it to glorify God and build God’s kingdom.

I hope you accept this gift and join us at the table, to eat, and to be a part of God’s bigger picture. I hope you embrace this ultimate freedom, follow Jesus, and do all that you do with love, truth, grace, and determination.

DECKER: Continued From Page 4

Just like the people of Jerusalem in Nehemiah’s day, the city walls of rural American need rebuilding. A city wall signifies security and prosperity. A crumbling wall signifies a crumbling society, particularly with regard to its future security and prosperity. It’s no secret, if you read my essays regularly, that rural America needs to rebuild its own walls.

But rural America could also take a lesson or two from Nehemiah 10. What if we recalibrated our time, effort, and energy to the right places? What if we focused that on the betterment of our community and the people within it?

What if our priorities—individually, in our families, in our businesses and organizations—centered around giving of ourselves to improve our community?

What could each of us accomplish?

What could we accomplish together?

James Decker is a lawyer, farmer, and mayor 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.

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

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

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

Common Ground Youth Ministry Paul Wright 219 S Swenson 325-773-3604

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

Faith Chapel Gerald Spalding 501 W. McHarg 325-773-2866 AM Worship: 10:00

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

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

MacKenzie Trail Cowboy Church AM worship 11:00

First Assembly of God Family Worship Center Pastor John Shepard 1214 Compton 325-773-2435 Worship: Saturday 6PM

Heart of God Church 114 E Campbell Joanne Ochoa AM Worship 10:30 Nugent Baptist Church

Craig Thames 228-4457 Worship: 11:00 Nugent Church of Christ Nugent, Texas Wayne Kitchens, Preacher Sun. 10 Bible Classes 11 Morning Assembly Orient Street Church of Christ Wes Horn 510 S Orient 773-3419 Worship: 10:30 Paint Creek Baptist Church Pastor Tony Grand 940-864-3358 AM Worship: 11:00

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

St Ann’s Catholic Church 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

MAY 10, 2019 15

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HELP WANTED

FOR RENT

Sagebrush Living Center has openings for Direct Care Staff for 2pm to 10pm evening shift. Also need 10pm to 6am LVN. For information call Karen Wolsch or Doug Stanley at 325-773-2791 or come by Sagebrush Living Center, 1101 Columbia Stamford, TX.

House for Rent: 1319 Landon, 3br 2 bath, Large Kitchen, Recently Remodeled, $700 per month, First and Last month as Deposit, 6 months to year lease. Call 325-370-5079

Big Country Electric Cooperative currently has an opening for a Purchasing Agent & Material Clerk Supervisor in our Roby office. Please go to our website: www.bigcountry. coop/content/careers-co-op to apply online. Deadline to apply is Friday, May 17, 2019 at 11:30 a.m.

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

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICE

English as a Second Language Summer School Program Anson Elementary will be offering a summer program for children of limited English proficiency who will be eligible for admission to kindergarten or first grade in the beginning of the next school year. This

program will help your child to continue in his/her development of English language proficiency, literacy and academic skills needed for success in school. Please contact Mrs. Bobbi Lytle, Programs Director for Anson ISD, at 325-823-2404 to receive information about the program.

RESIDENTIAL

712 E Vanderbilt Gorgeous 1910 2 story Victorian home.Reduced.....$135,900 1018 Reynolds Historic 4bd home w/ basement, near school.Reduced$135,900 1502 Compton Great 3/2/2 Ranch Home on 1.6± AC! Reduced!...... $128,900 1210 Landon Stamford 3/2 Limestone Family Home w/ Fireplace! $106,000 7725 US Hwy 277 Hawley, Nice A-frame on almost half an acre! ......$69,000 2514 CR 389 Anson Country living - large 4/2 on 3 acres!......IN CONTRACT 2325 Ave Q Anson, Newer 4/3 Brick home w/ Shop 6± Acres.........$330,000 1222 Ave L Anson Farmhouse style, 2/2, fenced bk yard..........IN CONTRACT 715 Ave J Anson UPDATED 3/2 Brick, Sprinkler System...............$169,900 1726 22nd St Anson Spacious, 1922 Sq. Ft. 2/2 Brick .......................$129,000

COMMERCIAL

1611 N Swenson Historic Cliff House Restaurant REDUCED..............$79,900 1631 17th St, Anson over 4,000 sq. ft, restaurant equip. ..........IN CONTRACT 901 Commercial, Anson 12,600 sq. ft. Large parking lot..................$225,000

FARM & RANCH

DICKENS COUNTY

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

EASTLAND COUNTY

622± AC All Coastal, Good Water!

FISHER COUNTY

953± AC over ¾ mile river frontage! IN CONTRACT 619± AC- Valley View Ranch- Tremendous wildlife, elevation changes, good water! IN CONTRACT 130± Ac South of Sylvester on FM 1085 Nice small tract in good area!

179± Ac Sweetwater Creek Ranch West of Trent Thick Brush w/ some cultivation! IN CONTRACT

CALLAHAN COUNTY

BURGESS AUCTIONEERS 31st ANNUAL SPRING EQUIPMENT AUCTION SAT, MAY 11, 9:00AM 6 MILES SOUTH OF GRAHAM TX 2338 FM 1287 RT & NITA WELLS ESTATE-Complete Liquidation of Equipment & Personal Property, and Others LARGE AUCTION!

PARTIAL LISTING: 2014 JD 5100M 2K HRS—2014 NH T.105 1800 HRS— 2011 VERSATILE 400 2800 HRS—NH VERSATILE 9682 4700HRS— JD 3040 MFWD—FORD 7700—FORD 2120 MFWD— 2016 CAT D5K2 DOZER—2- 2018 GENIE TELEHANDLERS— 2012 JCB 320T SKID STEER—2014 JCB 330 SKID STEER— WELDERS— JD 469 RND BALER—NH BR 7070 RND BALER—NH BC 5070 SQUARE BALER— OTHER LATE MODEL BALERS & CUTTERS— SEVERAL HUNDRED PIECES OF FARM & RANCH EQUIPMENT ALSO SELLING FOR THE WELLS ESTATE: Antiques, Roll Top Desk, Depression Glass, Carnival Glass, Collectibles, China, Primitives, Collector Plates

WE WILL RUN 2 RINGS ALL DAY LIVE ONLINE BIDDING AVAILABLE, WITH LEVEL FOR MORE INFO & PICTURES: www.burgessauctineers.com

940-549-0970 - Sim Burgess TDLR# 9880

1,015± AC Great Sock Farm or Hay farm

COMANCHE COUNTY

735± AC - 4D Game Ranch – Turnkey High Fenced Hunting Ranch w/ Lodge!

HASKELL COUNTY

202± AC - Box Springs Ranch - Improved Grass, Stock Tank w/ Good Water Well!

160± AC – The Kittley Irrigated Farm Northwest of Rule!

152± AC - Top Kevil Cotton Farm - Good black land farm w/ 1/2 the minerals! IN CONTRACT

JONES COUNTY

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

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

160± AC Cultivation south of Avoca 157.8± AC Stock farm w some pasture off HWY 6 SOLD 139± AC- Farrington Cotton Farm Prime Cultivation 50± AC Cultivated farm great hunting!

KENT COUNTY

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

521± AC – The Grove- Shinnery & Mesquite Combination, Great Hunting!

SCURRY COUNTY

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

SHACKELFORD COUNTY

200± AC - Quarry Income w/ Good Hunting! SOLD 160± AC – All pasture, Great Hunting!

SOLD

STEPHENS COUNTY

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

85± AC w/ house

STONEWALL COUNTY

4,743± AC - Patterson North Camp - 2 Live Creeks w/ Hunting Lodge... A Must See! SOLD 5,900± AC- Live Water… Coming Soon!

2,082± -AC- Double View RanchSpectacular views, River & Cabin!

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

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

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

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

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

330± AC- Great View of Double Mtns. w/ scenic deep canyons, large neighbors, great hunting!

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

160± AC- Spring Canyon Ranch Great Hunting w/ Lodge! IN CONTRACT 130± AC- Youngers 130 Good Cultivation and great Hunting!

TAYLOR COUNTY

76± AC - Near Jim Ned School. Motivated Seller!

50± AC White Mines Road-Wylie ISD-No Restrictions!

5± Acres Off of HWY 351 No Restrictions In Contract!

Taylor Ridge Estates- 20-80 Acre rural tracts Call for info

16 MAY 10, 2019

news@americannewspapers.net

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Stamford FFA’s Cooper Wilhelm and Peyton Bevel exhibited 2 of the 7 breed champions in the Grand Drive at Rodeo Austin’s 2019 Junior Market Barrow Show on March 24th. Peyton Bevel exhibited the Champion Yorkshire; his barrow was bred by Contender’s Livestock of Stamford, Texas. Cooper exhibited the Reserve Grand Champion Barrow of the show and was also the Champion Hampshire. Cooper’s barrow was bred by Lackey Livestock of Haskell, Texas. (Photos courtesy of Heather Wilhelm)