4
Wednesday, December 21, 2016 Volume 118, Number 50 8 Pages $1.00 www.HerefordBRAND.com
days 'till Christmas
Make Newspapers Great Again
City settlement approval eases power rate increases By John Carson BRAND Managing Editor While Xcel customers in Hereford will be seeing an increase in their power bills during the coming months, the bump will not be nearly as steep as the company was planning. The Hereford City Commission approved a resolution dur-
ing Monday’s regular meeting for a settlement agreement between Xcel parent company Southwestern Public Service (SPS) and the Alliance of Xcel Municipalities (AXM). Hereford is one of almost 30 cities in AXM, and commission approval was needed to move for-
HANNA
ward with a settlement that slashed more than half of SPS’s proposed rate increase. “We aren’t completely pleased with the settlement, but it was the best we could get,” Hereford City Manager Rick Hanna said. “The settlement amount was based on
what AXM research showed the state PUC (Public Utility Commission) would approve.” SPS originally requested a $71.9 million rate increase for its AXM affiliates. AXM balked, forcing negotiations – which, if no settlement was reached, would have forced a decisive hearing before the PUC. The settlement lowered the
overall increase to $35 million, which amounts to a 7 percent bump in rates. With most of that 7 percent increase is consumed by fuel costs, Hanna said the settlement will allow the rate hike to be negligible for most customers. “As rate increases go, this is PLEASE SEE CITY | 3
Holiday police event beats the rap... uh, wrap By Chris Aguilar BRAND Staff Writer An overflow group of excited youngsters joined officers from Hereford Police Department (HPD) early Saturday for the first Shop with a Cop holiday event. Co-hosted by HPD and Wal-Mart, the day began at the local store with donuts and juice as participants mingled with family and officers. Half of the HPD force took part in the event – including officers who had just ended 8-hour shifts and three office workers – while the other was on duty. Officers were partnered up with a child, handed a $50 Wal-Mart gift card valued at $50 and were let loose to roam the aisles searching for the perfect Christmas gift. Whether purchases were made for a loved one or themselves, the young shoppers’ lit up like a Christmas tree. “The kids had a really great time, but I think us cops enjoyed the morning more,” said HPD officer Zack Cole-
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
Above, Hereford Police Chief Brent Harrison assists 5-year-old Amaya McLaughlin in selecting a Christmas gift, while, left Gracey Garza, 8, leads HPD Officer Daniel Garcia through the maze of aisles at Wal-Mart during Saturday’s Shop with a Cop.
PLEASE SEE SHOP | 3
Tierra Blanca readers shine like stars
By Chris Aguilar BRAND Staff Writer
Season preview?
BRAND/John Carson
Despite the calendar showing the season changing on Wednesday, Hereford received a visit from Old Man Winter over the weekend temperatures plummeted to highs in the mid-20s.
Students were given the opportunity to shine during the Dec. 12 called meeting of the Hereford Independent School District (HISD) Board of Trustees. Teachers from Tierra Blanca Elementary School (TBES) shared how their classes are using some friendly competition to pass reading goals. “We’ve always worked really hard to push our students to read,” TBES principal Hortencia Mendez said. “In the past, we found that students would lose interest in reading throughout the school year. “We had to find a way to keep that passion going.” Looking for different ways to keep the love of reading alive, school officials believe they found it in a friendly challenge called the “Million-word Reading
Program.” The program’s ultimate goal is to have students read a total of 1 million words by the end of the school year. “Of course, reaching that goal comes with great reward,” Mendez said. TBES librarian Marietta Flood added that studies show children who read a million words cover an entire year of reading growth. “Whether it’s three months, six months or one year, a million words is about how many words the brain needs to hear to make that growth.” Flood said In the 2015-16 school year, TBES had 24 students achieve the million-word goal with one student reading well over two million words. Those students then earned a trip to Barnes and Noble in Amarillo, where they were awarded gift PLEASE SEE READ | 8
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
Aurely Rodriguez, a kindergartener at Tierra Blanca Elementary School, searches for the just right tome.
Hereford BRAND Classifieds Apartments • Employment • Services • Garage Sales and more!
Call to place your ad today! (806) 364-2030
2 | Hereford BRAND
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
News
Have a story idea? John Carson, Managing Editor, editor@herefordbrand.com
Do you see what I see? Contributed photo
In preparation for the Christmas holiday break, Hereford Independent School District (HISD) challenged its staff to raise 1,500 jars of peanut butter for Snack Pak 4 Kids. The program, which sends home two jars per child during the Christmas break, wanted to make sure there was plenty to go around. HISD staff surpassed the goal collecting a total of 2,607 jars. The breakdown had the administration building contributing 640 jars, Stanton Learning Center 330, Tierra Blanca Elementary 228, Aikman Elementary 222, Bluebonnet Elementary 192, Hereford High School 173, Hereford Junior High 158, Hereford Preparatory Academy 138, Northwest Elementary 137, West Central Elementary 127 and Hereford Center for Accelerated Learning 50. Whiteface Ford and First Baptist Church donated funds for the remaining 212 jars.
(USPS 242-060) Published each Wednesday & Saturday in 2016 P.O. Box 673 506 S. 25 Mile Ave. Hereford, TX 79045
Subscription Rates Mail Delivery plus online
2 Years: $80.00 1 Year: $42.00 6 Mo: $24.00
Police Blotter
Online Subscription rates
1 Year: $42.00 6 Months: $24.00
Periodical Class Postage Paid At U.S. Post Office in Hereford, TX 79045
Hereford Police Department
standing city traffic warrants.
Postmaster: Send address changes to the Hereford BRAND, P.O. Box 673, Hereford, TX 79045
Dec. 13 Juan Manuel Martinez, 39, arrested on two outstanding misdemeanor warrants. Blanca Faith Quezada, 21, arrested for assault and interference with public duties. Daniel Ivan Rodriquez, 31, arrested on possession of drug paraphernalia, unreasonable noise and two counts of expired registration.
Dec. 16 Kevin Thomas Foster, 53, arrested for a thirdor-more offense of driving while intoxicated. Lloyd Ray Lujan, 55, arrested for no driver’s license and failure to maintain proof of financial responsibility. Juan Carlos, Silva, 30, arrested for possession or delivery of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Dec. 14 Romeo Chivalan Delacruz, 24, arrested on an outstanding misdemeanor warrant. Ricky Allen Johnson, 23, arrested for driving while intoxicated, resisting arrest/search/transportation and assault/bodily injury against a public servant. Christopher Contreras, 18, arrested for minor in consumption of alcohol. Javier Omar Valencia, 22, arrested for public intoxication and on two out-
Dec. 17 Devondelero Patterson, 43, arrested for no auto insurance. Ana Karen GuzemanDuran, 23, arrested for no driver’s license.
Phone: (806) 364-2030 Fax: (806) 364-8364
BRAND Staff 806-364-2030
Office Manager April Blacksher publisher@herefordbrand.com Managing Editor John Carson editor@herefordbrand.com Creative Director Andrew Bouillon design@herefordbrand.com Staff Writer Chris Aguilar reporter@herefordbrand.com
Dec. 18 Anna Ashley Oliver, 31, arrested for no driver’s license, on an outstanding city traffic warrant and outstanding misdemeanor warrant. Ciria Elaine Leal, 20, arrested for theft, possession
of marijuana and possession or delivery of drug paraphernalia. Dec. 19 Anastasia Paris Camargo, 19, arrested for theft. Sergio Javier Acosta, 47, arrested for possession of marijuana and criminal trespass. Deaf Smith County Sheriff’s Office
Fri, Dec. 23rd - Sun, Jan. 1st
2D Rogue One
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13
2D Rogue One
All But Last Showings
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13 3:30, 6:45
3D Rogue One
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13
Hereford BRAND
SCREEN 2 RATED PG
All Showings
Monday, Jan. 2nd
3:30, 6:45
2D Rogue One
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13
3D Rogue One
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13 12:20, 9:45
COLLATERAL BEAUTY
SCREEN 3 RATED PG13 12:00, 2:20, 4:45, 7:05, 9:30 220 N. Main • 806-364-0323 Mon. - Fri. • 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY
SCREEN 4 RATED R 12:25, 4:00, 7:10, 9:40
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES: WE Hereford, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment to Air Quality Permit Number 75702, which would authorize modification to an Ethanol Production Facility located at 3748 S Progressive Rd, Hereford, Deaf Smith County, Texas 79045. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.
was established in February 1901
2D ASSASSIN'S CREED
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13 3:30, 7:00
3D ASSASSIN'S CREED
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13 12:30, 9:40
2D PASSENGERS
SCREEN 6 RATED PG13 12:40, 3:45, 7:00, 9:45 Times subject to change, please check our website for current showtimes at www.pccmovies.com. Or call 806-364-8000, option 2 for showtimes.
3:30, 6:45
3D Rogue One
SCREEN 1 RATED PG13
2D SING
SCREEN 2 RATED PG 11:30, 2:00, 4:30, 7:00, 9:35
11:30, 2:00, 4:30, 7:00, 9:35
Bring in this ad and get a free travel size product!
Dec. 18 Johnny Stockinger, 25, arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Maria Barrientos, 36, arrested for forgery.
Thursday December 22nd
2D SING
The
Dec. 14 Ernesto Perez, 28, arrested for criminal nonsupport. Frank Salazar, 50, arrested for possession of less than 1 gram of a controlled substance. Desirea Lopez, 19, ar-
rested for possession of less than 1 gram of a controlled substance. Guyman Hudson, 67, arrested for felon in possession of a firearm.
Wednesday December 21st
12:20, 9:45
The Hereford BRAND is published at 506 S 25 Mile Ave, Hereford, TX 79045, twice a week. Periodicals postage paid at Hereford, TX 79045. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Hereford BRAND, P.O. Box 673, Hereford, TX 79045. Any erroneous reflection upon character, standing or reputation of any person, firm or corporation, which may occur in the Hereford BRAND will be gladly corrected once brought to the attention of publisher or editor. The publisher is not responsible for copy omissions or typographical errors that may occur other than to correct them in the nearest issue after it is brought to his attention and in no case does the publisher hold himself liable for damages further than the amount received by him from actual space covering the error. The Hereford BRAND is an award winning member of the Panhandle Press Association.
Dec. 13 Noe Vargas, 22, arrested for driving while intoxicated with a child passenger.
12:20, 9:45
2D SING
SCREEN 2 RATED PG
COLLATERAL BEAUTY
11:30, 2:00, 4:30, 7:00, 9:35
12:00, 2:20, 4:45, 7:05, 9:30
COLLATERAL BEAUTY
SCREEN 3 RATED PG13
OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY
SCREEN 3 RATED PG13
12:25, 4:00
SCREEN 4 RATED R
12:00, 2:20, 4:45, 7:05, 9:30
WHY HIM?
SCREEN 4 RATED R
12:25, 3:40, 7:00, 9:30
WHY HIM?
SCREEN 4 RATED R
2D ASSASSIN'S CREED
7:00, 9:30
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13
2D ASSASSIN'S CREED
3:30, 7:00
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13 3:30, 7:00
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13
3D ASSASSIN'S CREED
12:30, 9:40
SCREEN 5 RATED PG13 12:30, 9:40
2D PASSENGERS
SCREEN 6 RATED PG13
2D PASSENGERS
SCREEN 6 RATED PG13 12:40, 3:45, 7:00, 9:45
3D ASSASSIN'S CREED
12:40, 3:45, 7:00, 9:45 Times subject to change, please check our website for current showtimes at www.pccmovies.com. Or call 806-364-8000, option 2 for showtimes.
STEVENS CAR & TRUCK CENTER, HEREFORD, TX 1-800-299-2438 - www.stevens5star.com
Hereford BRAND 506 S. 25 Mile Ave., Hereford, TX 79045 (806) 364-2030 www.HerefordBrand.com
N. Hwy 385 806-364-2160 Sundays • NA meeting, 8 p.m., at Hereford Community Center, 100 Ave. C. For more information call 570-4648. • Praire Acres Activities: 10, Movie & Snacks; 11:30, Background music; 4, Tenth St. Church of Christ; 7:30, Dominoes Mondays • Rotary Club, noon, Sugarland Mall Grill • Deaf Smith County Historical Museum regular hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and only by appointment on Sunday • Troop 50 Boy Scouts, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Northwest Elementary. All boys ages 11-18 are invited to participate. Call 289-5354 for information. • Al-Anon Group, 7 p.m. at Fellowship of Believers Church, 245 Kingwood, for more information call 364-6045 or 676-7662. • Hereford Retired School Employees Association meeting will be at 12 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center.
• Masonic Lodge, 7:30 p.m., Masonic Hall. • Hereford Study Club meets at the Hereford Senior Citizens Center at 2 p.m. • Hereford Senior Citizen Center Activities: 8 - noon, Quilting; 8 - 8:45, Pool Exercise Class (women); 9-9:45, P. Ex. class (women); 10-10:45, P. Ex. class (men); 11:11:45, P. Ex. class (women) 1-1:45, P. Ex. Class (men) • Praire Acres Activities: 9:30, Discussion; 11:40, Background Music; 2, Bible Study/Spanish; 3, Caption This; 7:30, Bingo. Tuesdays • Deaf Smith County Crime Stoppers Board of Directors, 6 p.m., Hereford Police Department rec room • AA meeting, 8 p.m. Hereford Community Center, 100 Ave. C. For more information call 570-4648 • Support Group for TBI Caregivers meeting at 7 p.m. For information call 806-364-1892 or email: dgproctor@ gmail.com • Order of the Eastern Star, 7 p.m.
Masonic Hall • Pilot Club 7 a.m. King’s Manor Lamar Room • American Legion Post 192 monthly meeting at 7 p.m. • Alpha Alpha Preceptor chapter of Beta Sigma Phi meeting at 7 p.m. •Xi Epsilon Alpha chapter of Beta Sigma Phi meeting at 7 p.m. • Hereford Senior Citizen Center Activities: 8 - noon, Quilting; 8 - 8:45, Pool Exercise Class (women); 9-9:45, P. Ex. class (women); 10-10:30, Floor Exercise • Praire Acres Activities: 8:30, Beauty Shop; 11:40, Background Music; 2, Manicures for our ladies & men; 7:30, Watercoloring Wednesdays • Lions Club, noon, Hereford Community Center • Bippus Extension Education Club, 2 p.m. • NA meeting, 8 p.m., at Hereford Community Center, 100 Ave. C. For more information call 570-4648 • Hereford Senior Citizen’s Association
Tel.: 806-363-8200 Voice Resp.: 806-363-8255 Address: 3rd & Sampson Time/Temp.: 806-364-5100 Website: www.ffin.com
Board Meeting at 9 a.m. • Hereford Senior Citizen Center Activities: 8 - noon, Quilting; 8 - 8:45, Pool Exercise Class (women); 9-9:45, P. Ex. class (women); 10-10:45, P. Ex. class (men); 11:11:45, P. Ex. class (women) 1-1:45, P. Ex. Class (men). • Praire Acres Activities: 9:15, Zumba Gold Chair; 10, Discussion; 11:30, Chicken Soup for the Soul; 3, Bible Study; 7:30, Movie Night. Thursdays • Hereford Toastmasters, 6:30 a.m., Amarillo College. • Kiwanis Club, noon, Hereford Community Center. • Hereford Day Care Center Board of Directors, noon, Hereford Country Club. • Merry Mixers Square Dance Club, 7 p.m., Hereford Community Center. • AA meeting, 8 p.m., Hereford Community Center, 100 Ave. C. For more information call 570-4648. • Los Ciboleros Chapter NSDAR, 2 p.m. • The Humane Society of Deaf Smith
County meets at 7 p.m. at the Animal Control Building. • Hereford Senior Citizen Center Activities: 8 - noon, Quilting; 8 - 8:45, Pool Exercise Class (women); 9-9:45, P. Ex. class (women); 10-10:30, Floor Exercise; 10:30-1:00 • Praire Acres Activities: 9:15, Whoga; 10, Discussion; 11:30, Poems; 3, Bean Bag Toss; 7:30, Stain Glass Painting. Fridays • BINGO at Hereford Elks Lodge, 325 E. Austin Road at 7:30 p.m. • Hereford Senior Citizen Center Activities: 8 - noon, Quilting; 8 - 8:45, Pool Exercise Class (women); 9-9:45, P. Ex. class (women); 10-10:45, P. Ex class (men); 11-11:45, P. EX class (women); 1-1:45 P. Ex. class (men); 10-1, Hereford Nursing and Rehab Health Check • Praire Acres Activities: 9:15 Zumba Gold Chair; 10, Discussion; 11:30 Guidepost; 3, Decorating Bottles; 7:30, Movie Night.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Hereford BRAND | 3
SHOP WITH A COP: Inaugural event a success for all FROM PAGE 1
man said, who secured the grant which made the event possible. “Helping the community is our job. Shop with a Cop is just one way we get to show the community we care. “Events like this are the reason I became a cop.” Coming to HPD from Randall County and having seen what a success the program was there, Coleman took the necessary steps to bring it to Hereford. With permission of HPD Chief Brent Harrison and Hereford City Manager Rick Hanna, Coleman applied and was successful in obtaining a state grant to make it so. The $2,000 grant allowed $50 for 40 children, but as the morning progressed a total of 45 youngsters showed up for the event. What may have looked like a tough situation never materialized as officers and an unnamed donor came forward to ensure that no child left empty handed. “We had a great turnout that plans for next year’s event are already being discussed,” Harrison said. “We plan on
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
HPD Officer Zack Coleman swipes the card to secure Shop with a Cop purchases for 9-year-old Illiana Sanchez at Wal-Mart on Saturday. bringing the Hereford Fire Department on board, adding to the funds which will allow for more children to participate.” With the inaugural Shop with a Cop deemed more than a success by
organizers, plans are already underway for next year’s event. Among those plans, according to Harrison, is confirmation the program will be doubled if Hereford Fire Department also participates. Harrison said at Monday’s Hereford City Commission meeting that discussion with Fire Marshal Dean Turney have begun to make it a reality. “We are talking about hosting fundraisers to help with the program,” Coleman said. “There are a lot of things we can do as a community to help.” Among the ideas being tossed around for fundraisers are a softball tournament between HPD and Deaf Smith County Sheriff’s Office and a community cook-out.
CITY: FROM PAGE 1
good for low- and middleincome families,” he said. “The [negotiation] group did a good job. “With most of the increase taken up in fuel costs, you will end predominantly paying for what you use.” Hanna added that all customers would see a 50cent increase in base rate, but how large an overall hike in a bill will be determined by individual customer use. “The negotiated amount was the best we could have gotten, even if it had gone to a full-blown PUC hearing,” Hanna said. In other action, commissioners ratified a decision by the Hereford Zoning Board to deny the rezoning of property at 305 Kibbee Street. Property owner Isaac Casarez was seeking to have it rezoned from single-family to multi-family residential. The only action commissioners could take at the meeting was to concur with the Zoning Board. To overturn a Zoning Board decision, Hanna informed commissioners during their pre-meeting work session that ordinance required approval
by six of the board’s seven members. Monday’s did have a quorum, but only four mem-
bers were present with Angie Alonzo, Joe Garza and Cathy Bunch not in attendance.
Brenda Thomas is retiring! A Touch of Class is closing. Lynn will be at Carousel Beauty Salon. Please come honor Brenda as she completes 40+ years of service to her clients. December 20, 21, 22 We invite you to come by to share your memories over coffee & cider. You will be able to find Lynn K at a new location starting Jan. 3rd at 321 W. 3rd and at the same phone number 364-5050. The Carousel Beauty Salon. We appreciate your patronage.
First United Methodist Church invites you to
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE December 24 @ 5:30pm Carols, Communion, and Candlelight
And
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE December 25 @10:45am No Sunday School
First United Methodist Church Rev. Kevin S. Bushart 501 North Main Street, Hereford, Texas (806) 364-0770
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
Illiana Sanchez, 9, explains to Hereford Police Officer Zack Coleman just how a gift she selected operates. Coleman was instrumental in securing grant funds to make the first Shop with a Cop event possible.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION FOR AN AIR QUALITY PERMIT PERMIT NUMBER: 75702 APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. WE Hereford, LLC, 3748 S Progressive Rd, Hereford, Texas 79045-8515, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an amendment to Air Quality Permit Number 75702, which would authorize modification to an Ethanol Production Facility located at 3748 S Progressive Rd, Hereford, Deaf Smith County, Texas 79045. This application was submitted to the TCEQ on October 27, 2014. The existing facility will emit the following contaminants: Organic compounds, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hazardous air pollutants, and particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns and 2.5 microns or less. The executive director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The executive director has made a preliminary decision to issue the permit because it meets all rules and regulations. The permit application, executive director’s preliminary decision, and draft permit will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Amarillo regional office, and at the Deaf Smith County Library, 211 East 4th Street, Hereford, Deaf Smith County, Texas, beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review at the TCEQ Amarillo Regional Office, 3918 Canyon Dr, Amarillo, Texas. PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public comments or request a public meeting about this application. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comment or to ask questions about the application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting if the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing. You may submit additional written public comments within 30 days of the date of newspaper publication of this notice in the manner set forth in the AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION paragraph below. RESPONSE TO COMMENTS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. After the deadline for public comments, the executive director will consider the comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material or significant public comments. Because no timely hearing requests have been received, after preparing the response to comments, the executive director may then issue final approval of the application. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the application will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application, and will be posted electronically to the Commissioners’ Integrated Database (CID). INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. When they become available, the executive director’s response to comments and the final decision on this application will be accessible through the Commission’s Web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Once you have access to the CID using the above link, enter the permit number for this application which is provided at the top of this notice. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. http:// www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/hb610/index.html?lat=34.83&lng=102.364&zoom=13&type=r. MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/about/ comments.html, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. If you communicate with the TCEQ electronically, please be aware that your email address, like your physical mailing address, will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040. Further information may also be obtained from WE Hereford, LLC at the address stated above or by calling Mr. Brian Dobson-Totten, Senior Analyst at (612) 643-5256. Notice Issuance Date: December 9, 2016
4 | Hereford BRAND
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Opinion Trump needs to end affair with Russia President-elect Donald Trump has a Russia problem – and he alone can fix it. The longer he waits to do so, the more damage he'll do to his own credibility and that of vital American institutions. That damage is already too great. American intelligence officials now firmly believe Russia was behind efforts not just to meddle in the recent presidential election but to try its best to boost Trump's campaign over that of his rival, Hillary Clinton. The most recent revelations suggest Russian President Vladimir Putin personally signed off on the campaign, prompting President Barack Obama to promise a response. To determine the scope of the intrusions, and the motives behind them, Obama has ordered a full-scale investigation be completed by Jan. 20. That's appropriate, if well overdue. Republicans on Capitol Hill are now demanding a more thorough investigation, too. On Monday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell supported calls for a bipartisan Senate inquiry. "It defies belief that somehow Republicans in the Senate are reluctant to either review Russian tactics or ignore them. ... The Russians are not our friends." Trump? Inexplicably, even bizarrely, he has refused to condemn Russia's foreign intrusion in our elections. He has maintained his mid-campaign insistence that it didn't happen. He hasn't even joined calls to investigate. Last week, when asked for comment on the conclusions by America's intelligence agencies that Russia had indeed tried to influence the election, his transition team issued a statement ridiculing the nation's spy services. "These are the same people that said Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction," it stated. "The election ended a long time ago in one of the biggest electoral college victories in history. It's now time to move on and 'Make America Great Again.'" Whom does such deception serve? Certainly not the nation, which relies on those agencies for its safety. Nor does it serve its new president-elect. The mistakes about Iraq's weapons of mass destruction were made nearly 15 years ago, before some of the agencies involved in the current assessment even existed. And, for the record, Trump's Electoral College margin of victory was well below the historical average — among the lowest in history. Meanwhile, his strange defense of Russia has begun to cast a shadow over his international business dealings and that of some of those under consideration for his Cabinet. Several hawkish Republican senators have now promised to closely scrutinize Trump's choice for secretary of state, Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, given his and his company's close relationship to Putin and Tillerson's previous objections to U.S.-led sanctions against Russia. Trump has stirred concerns like those by his strange resistance to what ought to have been an immediate, bipartisan consensus that we quickly find out everything there is to know about Russia's interference in the election. He has left Americans with an uncomfortable feeling that he's willing to say just about anything to avoid calling out Russia. Whatever his reasons for doing so, he would serve himself, the nation, and the agencies that work to keep us safe, by changing his tone. Dallas Morning News
Elected Officials Hereford City Commission Mayor – Tom Simons 806-363-7100 Place 1 – Jose A. Garza 806-363-7100 Place 2 – Angie Alonzo 806-363-7100 Place 3 – Charlie Kerr 806-363-7100 Place 4 – Linda Cumpton 806-363-7100 Place 5 – Cathy Bunch 806-363-7100 Place 6 – Sam Metcalf 806-363-7100 Deaf Smith County Commissioners Court County Judge D.J. Wagner 806-363-7000 Commissioners Precinct 1 – Pat Smith 806-344-2148 Precinct 2 – Jerry O'Connor 806-679-6889 Precinct 3 – Mike Brumley 806-344-5901 Precinct 4 – Dale Artho 806-679-6789 Hereford ISD Board of Trustees District I – Kevin Knight 806-364-0438 District II – Mike Bryant 806-676-6656 District II – Emily Wade 806-363-2381 District IV – Carolyn Waters 806-364-0596 District V – Robert De La Cruz 806-363-8261 District VI – Angel Barela 806-363-2921 District VII – Clay McNeely 806-344-0713 State Officials Governor Greg Abbott – 512-463-2000; www.gov.texas.gov Senator Kel Seliger –512-463-0131 (Austin); 806-374-8994 (Amarillo) Representative John Smithee –512-463-0702 (Austin); 806-372-3327 (Amarillo) Federal Officials President Barack Obama – 202-456-1111 Vice President Joe Biden – 202-456-7000
Have an opinion? John Carson, Managing Editor, editor@herefordbrand.com
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." First Amendment, U.S. Constitution Those who are willing to sacrifice liberty for additional security deserve neither security nor liberty.
The problem is not with the light being turned on, but from the misconduct the light exposes.
Benjamin Franklin
Theodore Roosevelt
Abbott touts Perry choice as secretary
Tales of Deaf Smith County “It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go…” Meredith Wilson With the Dust Bowl, Great Depression and two world wars, there CAROLYN were times that it WATERS was hard for the early settlers in the county to look forward to Christmas – especially for gifts and decorations. However, they learned to “make do” with what was available. Much of the holiday and social life was centered around the church and school activities, which were quite often held in the same building in the communities scattered around the county at the time. Histories of these communities record stories of Christmas celebrations. The community Christmas tree and programs were a highlight of the year. Elton Johnson, who arrived in the county in the early 1900s, once stated that one of his favorite memories of life on the “treeless plains” during those days were those connected with the ingenuity that provided a community Christmas tree. Most years, Johnson recalled, a four-day wagon trip to the Canadian Breaks would result in a fine cedar tree arriving in town. One year, however, an early snowstorm made the trip impossible. A dead peach tree with branches wrapped in green tissue paper was substituted.
At another time, since no dead tree was available, a step ladder was decorated with green cloth gathered from the neighborhood rag-bags. When Frank and Caroline Eberle came to the area in 1915, they became very active in church and community progress. In their family history, Eberle stated that Christmas midnight mass drew overflow attendance with people standing outside. Many were members of other churches, which indicated the community's habit of working and worshiping together. James and Harriet Rutherford and their three children arrived in the area in March 1900. They acquired ranch land 16 miles northwest of town. On one occasion near Christmas, then 10-year-old son James was sent to town in the buggy for supplies. He lingered so long viewing Christmas toys and decorations that he had not returned home when it became dark. A search for the youngster found him asleep in the buggy about a mile from home. Whether he later received any of the toys he so admired was not included in the story. The Langston Shore family, which arrived in Hereford in 1908, stated in family history that “the community Christmas party was the highlight of the year.” Groups singing Christmas carols was a fun event, and visiting in homes for hot chocolate or hot cider between stops for caroling was also enjoyed. As one reads and researches
the histories of the families who came to this area in its early days, it is quite evident that Christmas and other celebrations at churches, schools and in the homes were of utmost importance. Although these celebrations may not compare with such events today, they were important and most folks looked forward to the such events. Long before Linus recited the passage from the gospel of Luke in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to explain the true meaning of Christmas, the early settlers of the county shared the message at home, at school and church. School and church programs, simple decorations and quite often small or no gifts did not keep the families from celebrating and sharing with friends and neighbors. The Christmas Day meal might have included ducks or geese from the playa lakes or even from Town Lake, now Dameron Park. By custom and often by need, families and neighbors depended on one another. Such should be, and hopefully will continue to be, in our community today a practice of people helping people. As we gather together with family and friends this Christmas season, let us remember the reason for the season. Surely the families of the early days have provided an example for us to follow. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14
AUSTIN – Presidentelect Donald Trump’s nomination of Rick Perry as the next secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy prompted this reaction by Gov. Greg Abbott: “Under Rick Perry’s leadership in Texas,” Abbott said, “the Lone Star State experienced unprecedented growth in the energy sector, which in turn created hundreds of thousands of jobs for Texans. Rick Perry was instrumental in creating a more favorable regulatory environment for the energy industry in Texas, and I have no doubt that he will bring that same expertise to his new post. The State of Texas looks forward to working with him to help advance America’s energy sector to create a more robust economy and greater opportunity for all Americans.” Perry, who served as governor of the Lone Star State from December 2000-January 2015, previously served stints as lieutenant governor, agriculture commissioner and as a member of the Texas House of Representatives. He unsuccessfully ran for president in 2012 and again in 2016. Presidential Cabinet members include the vice president, the attorney general and the secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury and Veterans Affairs. Unemployment decreases Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased to 4.6 percent in November, down slightly from 4.7 percent in October, the Texas Workforce Commission announced Dec. 16. Also, according to the state agency, Texas has added an estimated 210,800 seasonally adjusted jobs over the past year with the addition of 20,900 nonfarm jobs in November. The state has added jobs in 19 of the past 20 months. “Private-sector employment has been strong over the year with the overall job growth of 171,800 including 15,800 jobs added in November,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “The fact that our state has added jobs for 19 of the last 20 months is a credit to the diversity and resilience of employers in Texas.” (Ed Sterling is director of member services for the Texas Press Association and can be reached at edsterling@texaspress. com.)
Hereford BRAND | 5
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Religion
Have church news? Want to support our local churches? April Blacksher, Office Manager, publisher@herefordbrand.com
Church News Fellowship of Believers We have a SCHEDULE CHANGE for Christmas weekend. Fellowship of Believers will have a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24th at 6:00 p.m. but WILL NOT MEET on Sunday Morning, December 25, 2016 (to allow everyone time with family). The 6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve candlelight service will be rich with hymns of the season, including: "Away in a Manger" "Joy to the World" "Silent Night! Holy Night" "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You" and "Jesus Loves Me." Special music for the evening will include Peggy Mize singing "A Communion Hymn for Christmas" while those present have the opportunity to partake of the Lord's Supper. The evening service will conclude with us singing "Silent Night" while led by Harold Manning with guitar. We are located at 245 N. Kingwood. Call 364-0359 if you need more information. We wish everyone the very best of the Christmas season!
Assembly Of God Calvary Family Church 137 Avenue G 806-364-5686 Victory Family Worship Center 606 E 15th St 806-364-0305 www.thevictory.tv
Iglesia Vida 603 E. Park Avenue 806-346-7054 All services in Español.
Baptist Avenue Baptist 130 N 25 Mile Ave. 806-364-1564
Dawn Baptist Dawn Community 806-258-7330 First Baptist Church 5th & Main Street 806-364-0696 www.fbchereford. com Frio Baptist Church 7 miles S. on FM 1055 806-276-5380 Genesis Church 1 mile N. on Hwy 385 806-364-1217 www.genesischurch.com Good News Church 621 E. 15th 806-364-5239 Inglesia Bautista Fundamental 100 South Ironwood 806-364-1844 Iglesia Bautista Nueva Vida 201 Country Club Drive 806-364-2209 Mount Sinai Baptist 302 Knight Street
Episcopal St. Thomas Episcopal Church 601 W Park Ave. 806-364-0146
Inter-
Summerfield Baptist 605 Walnut St., Summerfield 806-357-2535 Temple Baptist 700 Avenue K 806-364-1892 Templo La Hermosa 213 Barker Avenue 806-364-2038 Western Heritage Christian Church Westway Community Center Westway Baptist P.O. Box 178, Rural Rt. 4 806-364-5092
Catholic La Iglesia De San Jose 13th & Brevard 806-364-5053 St. Anthony’s Catholic 115 N. 25 Mile Ave. 806-364-6150
Church Of Christ 15th Street Church of Christ 15th & Blackfoot 806-364-1581
Park Avenue Church of Christ 703 W Park Ave. 806-364-6094
Luke 1:32-33 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
Saturday, December 24
Fellowship of Believers 245 N. Kingwood St. 806-364-0359
6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
Luke 2:6-7
Sunday, December 25 Luke 2:10-12
Jehovah Witness Jehovah Wtinesses 111 Avenue H 806-364-5763
Latter Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 500 Country Club Drive 806-364-1288
Lutheran
Methodist
First United Methodist 501 N. Main St 806-364-0770 www.herefordmethodist.com Iglesia Methodista San Pablo 220 Kibbe 806-364-3100
Nazarene Church of the Nazarene La Plata & Ironwood 806-364-8303 Iglesia Del Nazareno 340 Avenue H
Non
Denominational Barn Church 3948 FM 1057 806-289-5706 Christian Assembly 1206 S Main St. 806-364-5882 Living Stones Church 802 Avenue K 806-282-1138 Son Rise 502 Mabel St. Faith Mission Church of God in Christ 806-307-309
Without Walls Praise Center Central Church of 802 Avenue K Christ 806-360-2830 148 Sunset Spanish & Bi-lan806-364-1606 gual Services La Iglesia De Christo 334 Avenue E 806-364-6401
Wednesday, December 21
Denominational
Immanuel Lutheran Church 100 Avenue B New Life 806-346-2740 Restoration Center www.lcms.org 15th & Whittier 806-364-8866 Palo Duro Baptist 5704 FM 809, Wilderado 806-426-3470
Verse of the Day
Pentecostal Iglesia De Cristo 103 Alamo 806-364-2906
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Presbyterian First Presbyterian 610 Lee St. 806-364-2471
Seventh Day Adventist Iglesia Adevntista Del 7 Dia 1204 Moreman St. 806-341-0315
Seventh Day Adventist 711 W Park Ave. 806-364-6127
Trinity
Fellowship Trinity Fellowship 401 W Park Ave. 806-364-0373
6 | Hereford BRAND
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Classifieds
Have a classified? Andrew Bouillon, Creative Director, design@herefordbrand.com
Mendoza Irrigation
Apartments 3 bdrm, 2 bath brick home on Juniper. Contact (806) 346-6401 between 6 & 9 p.m.
The Hereford BRAND accepts all advertisement for publication in the classified section on the premise that the product is available as described at the address advertised and will be sold at the advertised price. The Hereford BRAND reserves the right to edit, revise, properly classify or reject advertising copy which does not conform to its rules, regulation and credit policies. The Hereford BRAND does not assume liability or financial responsibility for typographical errors or omissions. We are responsible for the first and correct insertion and report any errors at one. The Hereford BRAND will not be liable for any damages or loss that might occur from errors or omissions in advertisements beyond the amount charged for the advertisements.
Used pivots for sale 6-zimmatics 4-valleys 8-reinkes
House for Rent, 2 bedroom, 1 bath. 124 Ranger. $700 month and $500 deposit. Call 806-364-5030.
Call John at 806-729-2396 for more information
Apartments for Rent: 806344-2390 or 806-344-2387.
Pet of the Week
Tierra Blanca Apartments now leasing, 1 and 3 bedrooms available. Call or come by today! 806-3632775
Employment Mechanic needed. Pay depends on experience. Apply in person at 1909 E. HWY 60 or call 806-3640951. Mer-Lindy is a female mix that is a little bigger than a chihuahua. She will be a small to medium sized dog and is about as friendly as they come but is pretty hesitant with men. She would be a great addition to the family with a small child. Lindy is 13lbs and such a sweet lapdog.
Hereford Nursing and Rehab seeking full-time dietary aid and housekeeping staff. Pick up application at human resources OT Feedyard in Hereford TX is currently accepting application for experienced loader operator with mill expereince. Competitive wages, benifets, and insurance. Please apply in person and speak to Tony Olmos.
Dogs are $100 to adopt which includes their spay/neuter and a rabies vaccination at our local vet. Please call (806)363-6499 if you are interested!
Home Health LVN Position Available Great work environment!!! Full time LVN needed for home nursing care. 8am to 5pm with some on call. Competitive pay and benefit package Enthusiastic go-getter a plus! Please apply in person at: Bluebonnet Home Health and Hospice 304 E. 11th Friona Texas (806)247-0057
Office Clerk needed for data entry, USDA request, filing and phones. Pay will depend on experience. Computer experience with Microsoft, email, excel and drop down menus preferred. Apply in person at Lineage Logistics, 900 Millard Ave., Friona, TX 79035. Dispatcher. Tech savvy. Call for an appoinment for an interview. Please no walk-ins. 363.2366.
NOW HIRING
JayBe Hiring for full time and part time drivers in the Hereford and Plainview area • Health Benefits • Paid Vacation • Local job with home time • Must have two years certified experience
Call or come by in person to 3600 FM 2856 Herford, TX 79045 Call 806-418-5031 or 806-731-3049
Classified Advertising Policies
Mesothelioma may occur 30 to 60 years after exposure to asbestos. Many workers were exposed from the 1940s through the 1970s. Industrial and construction workers, along with their families (second hand exposure) are among those at risk for mesothelioma, lung cancer or gastro cancer (throat, stomach, colon). Call us for professional insight.
EXPERIENCE
COUNTS Lawyers with more than 100 years combined expertise.
Ryan A. Krebs, M.D., J.D. Doctor-Lawyer in Full-time Law Practice
Richard A. Dodd, L.C. Timothy R. Cappolino, P.C.
Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
NO FEE FOR FIRST VISIT
OffICes In HOustOn/COnrOe, teMple and austIn, prInCIpal OffICe In CaMerOn
1-800-460-0606 www.Asbestos Law.com
WE BUY
OIL, GAS, &
MINERAL RIGHTS
Both non-producing and producing
TexSCAN Week of December 18, 2016 REAL ESTATE AGENTS
We broker Agriculture! Land and agricultural consultants, over 100 years of experience, petroleum and minerals, wildlife and ranch management, land brokerage and auctions, Ag Brokers, 1- 806-679-2645, www. agbrokersltd.com CDL A DRIVERS CDL A Drivers: Mid Central-South Regional. Run between Nebraska and Texas. Stay off both coasts! Home weekends. 2,800 miles/ week. Be home Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fremont Contract Carriers, 1-866-641-6914 or visit www.fcc-inc.com. SAWMILLS FOR SALE SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE info/DVD: www. NorwoodSawmills.com, 1-800578-1363, Ext.300N
SCHOOL/TRAINING AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-800-475-4102 HELP WANTED E N T R Y L E V E L H E AV Y Equipment Operator Career.
1-800-287-3157. breathalyzerineverybar.com
ACREAGE FOR SALE
47.75 acres,West Texas hunting, north of Comstock.Deer, javelina, turkey,quail, and dove. $2375 down, $394/mo., (9.9%,30 years).1-866-286-0199. www.ranchenterprisesltd.com.
ACREAGE FOR SALE 27.33 acres south of Rockspring.Heavy oak,pinon ACREAGE FOR pine,cedar cover.Native,exotic game,feral hogs,turkey. HEALTH $3136 down,$519/mo., MALE ENHANCEMENT+ E.D. (9.9%,30years).1-800-876-9720. SOLUTIONS Cheaper Than Viagra or Cialis.Gain 1-3 Inches www.ranchenterprisesltd.com. Permanently.30-Day Money Back Run Your Ad In TexSCAN! Guarantee.FREE Brochure:619- Statewide Ad ....................$550 239 Newspapers, 617,408 Circulation 294-7777www.DrJoelKaplan.com North Region Only ........$250 69 Newspapers, 165,558 Circulation BREATHALYZERS Region Only .......$250 Partners Needed! Soon govern- South 85 Newspapers, 267,744 Circulation ment law will mandate every bar West Region Only .........$250 85 Newspapers, 184,106 Circulation provide a breathalyzer.Learn how To Order: Call this Newspaper to be the first in,to cash in. direct, or call Texas Press Service Hired! Bulldozers, Backhoes & Excavators. Immediate Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits. 1-866-362-6497
including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI)
Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation.
CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422
LOBO MINERALS, LLC PO Box 1800 • Lubbock, TX 79408-1800
LoboMineralsLLC@gmail.com
Ag Brokers, Ltd. Contact us!Visit our website for more detailed information. www.agbrokersltd.com
(806) 679-2645
Land and Ag Business consultants with over 100 years experience:
• Ag business • Land brokerage • Brokerage • Oil & gas exploration and development • Mineral leasing and title examination • Ranch leasing
• Estate auction • Ranch, livestock and wildlife management. • Livestock risk management • Wind and solar project, leasing and development.
Please consider us for your land purchase, sale, management or consulting needs. Steve Sykes, Agent 6703 Alpine Lane Amarillo, TX 79109
at 1-800-749-4793 Today!
NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, We cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 1-800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop
Classifieds: 806-364-2030
Bulletin Board RICHARD C. (R.C.) HOELSCHER ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. thru 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. thru 5 p.m.
Monday - Thursday
GILILLAND INSURANCE ASSOCIATES
B.J. Gililland
Attorney services by Appoinment Only
P.O. Box 1775, 304 West Third, Hereford TX 79045 PHONE NO. (806) 364-1200 • FAX (806) 364-9130
BARRETT PLUMBING Serving Hereford and area for over 45 years Licensed and Bonded #M9828
806-364-1818 Harold Barrett Responsible Master Plumber
P.O Box 1600 Hereford, TX 79045
CHRIS GABEL AUTOMOTIVE
Complete Automotive Service Major & Minor Engine Repair
Transmission Overhauls Computer Controls Oil Changes Air Conditioning Electrical
Tune-Ups Brakes Alignments Mufflers
806-363-2886
240 N 25 Mile Ave
Credit Cards Accepted
Ph. (806) 364-1881 Fax (806) 364-8655
201 E. Park Ave. • P.O. Box 232 Hereford, Texas 79045
806-364-1919
I’M SOLD ON
Whiteface
out our Service Department for all your service repairs & maintenance 550 N 25 Mile Ave • Hereford, Tx
Advertise Here! 2x2: $30 per week 2x4: $50 per week Ad will be in both Wednesday and Saturday editions. To advertise call April at 806-364-2030
Lewy Body Dementia? Parkinson’s Disease Dementia?
Suffer From Visual Hallucinations? Been hearing or seeing things that are not actually present? You may qualify for a research study that is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a new investigational medication that may help to reduce the symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson’s Disease Dementia if: • You are aged 50 - 85 years with a diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies • You suffer from visual hallucinations that occur on more days than not • Medications you take have been on a consistent dose for at least 4 weeks For More Information, Please Contact Sleep Therapy and Research Center, Dr. James Andry or Sue Rafati at (210) 614-6000
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Sports
Hereford BRAND | 7
Have sport news? John Carson, Managing Editor, editor@herefordbrand.com
Lady Whitefaces can’t keep up with good start From Staff Reports
Contributed photo
Family and friends, back from left, Alicve Halt, Grace Gamez, Pete Vargas, Ralph Vargas and, seated, Virginia Campos, join Hereford native Ruben Vargas, back center in red jacket, at his induction into the Texas Tennis Coach’s Association Hall of Fame earlier this month. Vargas is a Hereford High graduate, who began his coaching career with the Herd.
Former Hereford mentor inducted into tennis hall
From Staff Reports A coaching career that began in his hometown and spanned four decades has led Ruben Vargas to the pinnacle of his profession. Vargas, a Hereford native, was honored for a stellar 34-year coaching career earlier this month when he donned the coveted red jacket after his induction into the Texas Tennis Coaches Association (TTCA) Hall of Fame. Born in Hereford in 1961, Vargas graduated from Hereford High School in 1979 after playing three years of varsity tennis under TTCA Hall of Famer Steve Thomas and Sheila Watley. After graduation, the courts of West Texas A&M called, and Vargas went on to play four years of tennis for the Buffaloes while earning a degree in education with teaching
certifications in physical education, biology and speech. He returned to his prep alma mater to begin his coaching career and directed the Whiteface tennis program from 198389. Taking over a fifth-place team in the district, Vargas turned the Herd into a force to be reckoned with by winning three straight district titles (1986-88) that included Region 1 finals appearances in 1987 and 1988. From Hereford, Vargas went to Vernon High, where he has forged a career among the best the state has seen. At Vernon, Vargas has turned in 27 consecutive undefeated district championships and 25 straight years qualifying for the TTCA state championships. Vargas’ Vernon squads won state crowns in 1993,
1998, 2000, 2001 and 2003. He was named TTCA 4A Coach of the Year in 1989 while at Hereford, then added the TTCA 3A Coach of the Year trophy for the 1998 season at Vernon. In addition, he was named the TTCA 2013 winner of the Ike Groce Vision Award and 2015 Carey Caldwell Character Award. Vargas was also honored as NFHSCA Texas, Regional and National Coach of the Year for 2012 and served as TTCA president from 2011-12. In total, Vargas has led Vernon teams to the UIL state tournament for 28 years in a row (19892016). He has also coached nine individual state champions, 15 state finalists, 12 state semifinalists and 17 other state qualifiers while at Vernon.
PLAINVIEW – Another solid first-quarter effort fell by the wayside Friday as the Hereford Lady Whitefaces lost to No. 17 Plainview, 53-33, in District 3-5A play. For the second straight outing, the Lady Herd (5-9, 0-2) saw middle-quarter duldrums snuff out strong early play. “We came out in the first quarter with a lot of energy,” Hereford coach Christy Connally said. “We got back to running our primary break, which gets started from our defense. “Then, in the second quarter, we had turnovers that led to Plainview points.” Lindsey Carrillo and Liz Ramirez both hit 3-pointers as the Lady Whitefaces forged a 12-11 lead after one. The advantage would be shortlived as the Lady Bulldogs embarked on a 17-5 second frame to take a 28-17 lead into the half. Another five-point quarter in the third and only 16 points for the second half prohibited any comeback hopes as the Lady Dogs pulled away. “We need to look inside more to feed our posts,” Connally said. “Another area we lacked in was shooting from the field. “However, we did a much better job of crashing the boards at both ends of the floor.” Despite the loss, the Lady Herd held an edge in rebounding, 24-21, for one of the few times this season. Faith Castaneda hauled in a game-high 8 boards, while Lexi Escobal had 5, and Samantha Lookingbill finished with 4. Scoring fewer than 34 points for the third straight game, the Lady Whitefaces have also gone without a double-figure scorer during
Community
Photo by Bryan Hedrick/HISD
Hereford’s Faith Castaneda (42) battles for one of her gamehigh 8 rebounds during Friday’s 53-33 loss to Plainview in District 3-5A play. that span. Escobal scored all her points in the second half – including 6 in the fourth quarter – to lead the Lady Herd with 8 points. Lori Arias recorded 5 of her 7 points in the second half, while Faith Castaneda finished with 6 points. Carrillo and Ramirez chipped in 5 points each. The pre-Christmas district buzzsaw for the Lady Whitefaces continued after press time Tuesday when they hosted No. 3 Amarillo.
The Lady Herd gets back in action on Dec. 27-28 at the annual Burkburnett holiday tournament. They resume district play on Tuesday, Jan. 3 with a visit to Randall. PLAINVIEW 53, HEREFORD 33 1 2 3 4 HHS 12 5 5 11 – 33 PHS 11 17 11 14 – 53 Halftime: 28-17, Plainview HEREFORD (33): Barba 0, Escobal 8, Lookingbill 0, Arias 7, Carrillo 5, Valenzuela 0, Ramirez 5, Villalobos 0, Castaneda 6. PLAINVIEW (53): M.Nails 8, Garza 2, Rincon 9, Long 5, H.Davis 8, J.Nails 7, Dizdarevio 10, M.Davis 4.
Have community news? John Carson, Managing Editor, editor@herefordbrand.com
Spreading holiday cheer
Contributed photos
Students from throughout Hereford Independent School District spent parts of the last week of classes before the holiday break touring local businesses to boost the Christmas spirit and holiday cheer. Entertaining folks taking care of fiduciary business this week at First Financial Bank were, Above left, third-, fourth- and fifth-graders from Tierra Blanca Elementary, Above right, the Hereford High School chorus, left, fifth-graders from Aikman Elementary and, right, a large group of fifth-graders from Bluebonnet Elementary.
COMING UP BETWEEN THE LINES Wednesday, Dec. 28 Boys Basketball Varsity at Midland tourney, TBA Girls Basketball Varsity at Burkburnett tourney, TBA Thursday, Dec. 29 Boys Basketball Varsity at Midland tourney, TBA Girls Basketball Varsity at Burkburnett tourney, TBA
545 N. 25 Mile Ave.
Friday, Dec. 30 Boys Basketball Varsity at Midland tourney, TBA Girls Basketball Varsity at Burkburnett tourney, TBA
Tuesday, Jan. 3 Boys Basketball Freshmen at Randall, 4:30 p.m. JV at Randall, 6 p.m. Varsity at Randall, 7:30 p.m. Girls Basketball Freshmen at Randall, TBA Varsity at Randall, 6 p.m. JV at Randall, 7:30 p.m.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Thursday, Jan. 5 Boys Basketball 7th-grade A team at Dumas, 5 p.m. 8th-grade B team at Dumas, 5 p.m. 7th-grade B team at Dumas, 6:15 p.m. 8th-grade A team at Dumas, 6:15 p.m. Girls Basketball 7th-grade vs. Dumas, 5 p.m. 8th-grade vs. Dumas, 6:15 p.m.
8 | Hereford BRAND
Community
Wednesday, December 21, 2016 Have a story idea? Chris Aguilar, Staff Writer, reporter@herefordbrand.com
HISD school holiday programs
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
Above, the Hereford Junior High band and chorus entertain Bluebonnet Elementary School students for the holidays. Left, Bluebonnet firstgrader Jocelyn Chavez, 7, tries her hand at directing the band. Right, Stanton Learning Center kindergartener Keren Gallegos, 4, hears a different drummer during a lull in the performance, while, below, a Stanton kindergarten class mugs it up after the teacher exits as, below, Stanton bilingual classes do their thing.
READ: FROM PAGE 1
cards to purchase books of their choice. “For the 2014-15 school year, TBES, as a campus, read 17 million words” Flood said. “During the 2015-16 school year, our campus read 46 million words. “It’s exciting. The numbers grow every year.” As of Dec. 13, TBES students had read 34 million words for this school year and are expected to surpass last year’s 46 million words by 20 million. School leaders are touting their students’ success to a board decision that assigned librarians to a school campus on a full-time basis. “I think a huge part of our students’ success is having Mrs. Flood here full time,” Tierra Blanca assistant principal Samantha Guerrero said. Wanting to challenge every student to reach the million-word goal, the staff concocted a plan to breakdown the million-word goal into six-week challenges –
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
TBES third-grader Jose Mercado makes sure his recent reading work is correct and recorded for the school’s “Million-Word Reading Challenge.”
allowing students to reach goals in six week increments. Students are encouraged to reach these six-week goals and are rewarded when they succeed. “We do different activities each six weeks that are designed to be fun for our students, but really our ulterior motive is to get them to read,” Flood said. “The kids know we are trying to get them to read. “Honestly, I don’t think they care. They are having so much fun.”
BRAND/Chris Aguilar
Tierra Blanca Elementary kindergartener Adali Arias, 5, peruses her latest reading selection for the school’s “Million-Word Reading Challenge” to increase the reading skills of students.