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Border Patrol Station opening next week
SANDERSON – The long-awaited formal opening of the US
Border Patrol station in west Sanderson has been scheduled for next week. Officials and dignitaries, both local and state, and
the community will descend on the new Customs and Border Protection’s
Sanderson Border Patrol Station at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, as the
facility is formally dedicated. Participating in the event will be Ernest Rodriguez,
patrol agent in charge of the station, Terrell County Sheriff Clint McDonald,
Terrell County Judge Leo Smith and Cesar Blanco, representing Congressman
Ciro Rodriguez’s office. The dedicatory address will be given by Deputy Chief
Patrol Agent Carry Huffman. It has taken over three years to complete the $4.8
million facility, primarily because the initial contractor defaulted. The construction of the building was managed by the
United States Army Corp of Engineers. The 16,000-square-foot facility houses the growing
contingent of Border Patrol Agents assigned to the area. Sanderson has already received a significant increase in agents and will continue to do so over the
next two years, the agency said. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, the public will
be given tours of the building and refreshments will be served. There will also be demonstrations by Border Patrol K9s,
the Sector Response Team, the Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue Team
and by the Marfa Sector’s recruiting personnel. The event will end at 2 p.m. By STEVE LANG Sul Ross
News and Publications ALPINE – When Mike Flynt rediscovered Sul Ross State
University, nearly every major media outlet but the Discovery Channel soon
followed him to Alpine. Fifty-nine-year-old students returning to college are
not unheard of but, until last month, 59-year-old collegiate football players
were. Flynt, 59, seeks to complete his final year of
eligibility as a Lobo football player. The newest darling of the AARP crowd
last wore a Sul Ross uniform in 1970. Dismissed from the team prior to the 1971 season
because of a rules infraction, he welcomed the opportunity to compete again. “There are not many times in life when you have an
opportunity to go back and right a wrong,” he told a press conference of
local, regional and national media Monday. “I want to play but, at the same
time, I want to help these young men to make up for some young men I let down
36 years ago.” Flynt is an Odessa native and a member of the Permian
High School 1965 state champions. He transferred to Sul Ross in 1969 with three seasons
of eligibility remaining. During the 1970 campaign, he was named team captain and
co-defensive player of the year. He recorded 24 tackles in one game,
recovered four fumbles and intercepted a pass in another as the Lobos enjoyed
a 7-3 season. The following year, a dormitory incident turned into a fight and Flynt was dismissed from the team. Life continued, and Flynt finished his undergraduate
degree. He has worked in the physical fitness field for many
years, as a strength and fitness coach at several universities, as a trainer
for branches of the military and, six years ago, he invented a piece of
strength training equipment and now has his own company. Finishing that final year of eligibility remained an
on-again, off-again dream. Last summer, he contacted Lobo Head Coach Steve Wright,
met with him in Alpine and asked for a try-out. Flynt passed muster in strength, speed and agility and,
when the season-opening roster was announced, the grandfather was listed as a
senior linebacker. “Coach Wright and his staff evaluated me fairly,” Flynt
said. His coach told the audience this was not a publicity stunt. “I made a decision that Mike could come and we would
take a look at him making our football team,” Wright said. “I’m not limited
by barriers – barriers such as gender, race, disability or economic status. “If this had affected our team framework, Mike would
not be here,” he said. “If I did this for publicity, I would not be here [at
the press conference].” Flynt said countless e-mails from fellow
non-traditional students and senior citizens called him an inspiration. “So many people have prayed for me, I’ve had letters and
e-mails from people all over the country who say I have inspired them. Well,
they’ve inspired me.” Like Satchel Paige who pitched three scoreless innings
for the Kansas City A’s in 1965 at the age of 59, Flynt ascribes to Satch’s
theory: “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you
were?” “Physically, I appreciate that I am able to take
advantage of the opportunity,” Flynt said. He said being a positive influence on his much-younger
teammates remains a goal. “If I can help them make some right decisions, that’s a
victory for me,” he said. “One of the biggest victories for me thus far has
been their acceptance of me. “It’s a whole new experience looking out from inside
the helmet this time,” Flynt said. Wright, 51, joked that Flynt has already been a
positive influence on him. “I’m diabetic, and I’ve lost eight pounds just by
watching Mike,” the coach said. “He’s already made an impact.” A slight groin pull kept Flynt off the traveling squad
for the season opener. It remains uncertain if he will travel in uniform to
the game tomorrow against Southwest Assembly of God in Waxahachie or the
Sept. 15 contest in Belton against the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. But
when the team plays its home opener Sept. 22 at Jackson Field against East
Texas Baptist University, number 49 – at age 59 – will be on the sidelines
awaiting his chance after a 37-year hiatus. By LYN ROSAS Special to
the News Leader GRADY – All three seniors for the Sanderson Eagles took
to the field as captains to meet up with the captains of the host Wildcats
here Friday night. The Eagles won the toss and elected to kick off first. That was just about the end of the Eagle’s luck for the
night and they made the long trek home, the victims of a 58-8 drubbing by
their hosts. Sophomore David Shoemaker kicked off and John Ramirez
took the ball. Two plays later, Ramirez scored the first of the 58
points the home team would rack up for the night. After repeated attempts at yardage, the Eagles finally
scored when Senior Ben Rubio handed off to Phillip Lascano for a 65-yard TD
and the point after kick was good to put them on the board with eight points.
Early in the second quarter, sophomore Ryan Rosas
intercepted a pass and then ran the ball 10 yards for an Eagle first down. But the drive stalled and the Wildcats took over on
downs. Wildcats Justin Tubb ran it in for a TD moments later
and it was now 38-8. The Wildcats had a good night of football and were
prepared to play the game. Before the half-time buzzer they had scored 46
points while the Eagles held onto their lonely eight. It was all over early in the third quarter when the
margin went to 50 points. In six-man football, the game is over any time after
the half when one team is ahead by 45 points or more, a tradition known as
the 45 mercy rule. “We had an off night, and it wasn’t enough for one or
two to be doing their job, sophomore Jacob Benavidez said. “We needed to
pull together as a team and didn’t,” said fellow sophomore Ryan Rosas. “We went into the game over confident and a little cocky,” senior quarterback Ben Rubio told the News
Leader. “We had an off night.” Phillip Lascano romped for one carry of 68 yards and
the only Eagle touchdown of the evening. He also had five tackles. J.D. Brotherton carried 13 times for 24 yards and Jacob
Benavidez carried three times for 17 yards. Jacob also had two-and-a half
tackles and one interception. Ryan Rosas had four punts for a 31-yard average. He
also had four and a half tackles and one interception. Raul Salazar contributed three tackles to the Eagles’
effort The orange and
black will get a chance to redeem themselves tonight when they take on the
Water Valley Wildcats at 6:30 p.m. Parents night will precede the football
game, starting at 5:45 p.m. The Eagles Junior High Football players get their first
taste of action on September the 13 when they will host a scrimmage at Eagle
Stadium starting at 4 p.m. DRYDEN – There is a demand right now for hangars and
vehicle parking at the Terrell County Airport and having the right facilities
could attract development in the county. That was the essence of a report to the Airport Board
Tuesday by Airport Manager C.D. Curry. One owner of a “brand new Mooney” is building a home in
Terlingua and wants to build another resort home in Terrell County if he had
a hangar to get his airplane out if the weather, Curry said. “I know of at least two others who would park their
airplanes but there’s nothing here,” he said. The owner of a larger twin-turboprop Raytheon Beech
King Air 100 comes to Terrell County “three of four times a year” to hunt. Having a hangar would encourage this operator to
overnight in Terrell County, he said. Curry said he has also gotten several requests for
covered vehicle parking at the airport. One customer regularly parks a large motor home at the
airport and he would pay rental for covered parking. Curry said hangars and vehicle parking could provide
income for the county if they were available. “This would encourage investment in the community and
that would provide more tax money,” Board Member Steve Forrest said. “People
with million-dollar airplanes will pay good money to protect their
investment.” He said improvements at the airport would bring in
high-income people who will spend money in the community and provide jobs. “What do we do as the county for the ranchers?” Board
Secretary Martha Allen said. “We only maintain four county roads.” She said economic development could help ranchers who
can no longer rely on ranch animals for their livelihood. The board voted to recommend standards for hangar
construction to the Terrell County Commissioners Court, something the
commissioners had asked for. The court earlier approved standards for siding and uniform colors but asked for more building standards so
improvements to the airport would have a uniform appearance. Curry has gotten pricing for various hangars but board
members agreed hangars will have to wait an extension of the ramp which has
to precede hangar development. A “Routine Airport Maintenance Program” grant from the
Federal Aviation Administration can be used for pavement but the amount
available for next fiscal year has not been released. In other action, the board discussed a community
barbecue at the airport, perhaps some time next spring. Proceeds could go to a community project like the
Terrell County Volunteer Fire Department. Allen said regular barbecues at the airport were well
attended in the past. Curry said he would try to find a time when a flying
club might want a “fly-in” with several airplane coming in at once so
visitors could see some airplanes. By KIM RAPP News
Leader Production Manager SANDERSON – The town got to meet the Eagles – lots of
Eagles – at the annual “Meet the Eagles” program, which was moved to the
Bicentennial Park Pavilion last week due to some welcome sprinkles. Of course, the varsity Eagles were presented but other
Eagles greeting the crowd were members of the junior high football team, led
by Coach Leighton Conway. The team consists of Chris McDonald, Robert Montalvo,
Taylor Roberts, Roy Shoemaker and Shawn Stegal. And Dryden Baker, Jalen Chriesman and Daniel Luevano,
newcomer Sourabh Bhakta, Ryan Arthur, Ryan Johnson, Abraham Orozco and Mason
Blackmon. The junior Eagles will see their first action against
the Fort Davis Indians in “The Pit” for a scrimmage game at 4 p.m. on
Thursday, Sept. 13. The boys will play their first season game against
Rankin in Rankin on Thursday, September 20. Kick off is at 5 p.m. “The boys look good,” Conway told the News Leader.
“We’re playing with some who have not played before. We will fill in spots.
We have some good returning eighth graders.” Junior High cheerleaders meeting the crowd were Kayla
Fuéntez, Bailee Everett, Isabelle Rivera and Daniella Garza. The Eagle Band was introduced, directed by Thomas
Torres. Drum majors this year are senior Davis Stumberg and
junior Raquel Hinkley. Band members include Kelly Lomas, Melissa Gonzales,
Jimmy Rapp, Daniella Garza, Robert Montalvo, Jalen Chriesman, Jonathon
Calzada, Chris McDonald and Michael Dillard. Others are Mason Blackmon, Shawn Stegal, Juliana
Castro, Casey Couch, Daniel Luevano, Ryan Johnson, Dryden Baker, newcomer
Kayla Fuéntez, Catherine Barron, Bailee Everett, Ashley Barron and Rosa
Gonzales. Also making music are Ernestina Gonzales, Ralston
Rosas, Abraham Orozco and Isaac Ramirez. The Band Boosters had a meeting last week. Lindy
Stumberg will be president, Corina Castro was elected vice president, Laura
Galvan will serve as secretary and Tammy Truesdell will be treasurer with the
resignation of Veronica Luevano. The Band Boosters are the ones who make sure we all get
fed at home games from the concession stand. Proceeds go to a scholarship and other activities and
needs. Torres said the Band is looking at entering a marching
contest in October and will play the National Anthem at the open house of the
Border Patrol Station next Wednesday, September 12. The junior high cross-country team will be Ashley
Hagelgans, Melissa Gonzales, Ryan Arthur, Taylor Roberts and Shawn Stegal. High school cross-county runners are Miriam Nuńez, Rosa
Gonzales, Victoria Busch, Jessica Garza, Noemi Nuńez, Julianna Castro and
Ernestina for the girls, coached by Trisha Nichols and newcomer, sort of,
Marissa Aranda. Aranda is not new to Sanderson but is new to TCISD. Guys running the distance for Coach Leighton Conway are
Jimmy Rapp, Cordell Lawson, Travis Roberts, Kelly Lomas and Phillip Lascano. The boys will run at Sul Ross tomorrow, Sept. 8, in
Alpine. High school cheerleaders are Taylor Johnson, Hannah
Black, Clarissa Brotherton, Blakeney Chriesman and Ashley Hernandez. Co-captain cheerleaders are Danell Graham and Davis
Stumberg. Alexa Davis will be kept warm this season as Beaker. Tiny tots turning out for the pep squad are Abby
Carasco, Meagan Seidel, Olivia Aduato, Kailey Dominguez, Taryn Mitchell,
Grace Jahn, newcomer Kayla Baker, Annette Roberts, newcomer Lauryn Carroll,
Katie Roberts, Analise Galvan and Brooklin Zuniga. They are led by cheerleading coach Dora Benavidez. The traditional watermelon was served up after the many
introductions. SANDERSON – The school board last week approved plans
for six new tennis courts to be built behind the old high school building. It will be the first tangible results from a successful
May bond issue election that approved $14 million in school improvements. The first issue of $9.5 million in bonds was sold last
month. The courts will be in the area presently used for parking behind the high school. The space currently occupied by tennis courts will
become parking and the new entrance to the new gym will be at the south as
originally envisioned. The board also adopted the budget for the new fiscal
year and proposed a tax rate of $1.1615. There will be a public hearing on the tax rate at 6:45
p.m. on Monday, Sept. 17, before the regular board meeting. The board adopted a pay schedule provided by the Texas
Association of School Board for an increase of four percent at the
“mid-point” for personnel and to pay Superintendent Gary Hamilton $82,600 per
year, retroactive to July 1. Technology Director David Carrasco’s contract was
modified to a 12-month contract retroactive to Aug. 1. By LYN ROSAS Special to
the News Leader FORT STOCKTON – Katie Rubio is 12 years young and in
the seventh grade this year. She is the daughter of Jeri Rubio of Fort Stockton and
Rene Rubio of Sanderson. Katie moved to Fort Stockton when she was nine and this
year she has her plate full when it comes to activity. She is a cheerleader, volleyball player and runs
cross-country besides finding time to maintain honor roll grades. To be elected a cheerleader at Fort Stockton Middle
School, you have to be recommended by all of your teachers, have good grades
and maintain a good attitude and behavior. In other words, you must be an exceptional student. Among the approximately 64 young ladies who tried out
for volleyball, Katie was chosen as one of the 24 who make up the team. She will also be running cross-country this year. “It is a big
responsibility I have taken on, but I am up for the challenge,” she told the
News Leader. DRYDEN – Two mule-drawn covered wagons with all the
comforts of the modern age passed through here this week on a nine-month
odyssey from Texarkana, AR, to Tombstone, AZ. Why Tombstone? “That’s just where we wanted to go,” said Denise Smith
from the lead wagon piloted by her husband Mike. In the second wagon were Carol Coleman of Greenville
and Dustin Coleman of Texarkana. The two wagons, pulled by seven mules with one horse in
tow, left Texarkana on July 4. They hope to reach the town that was “too
tough to die” by March. Tombstone, a silver mining town in southern Arizona,
was best known for the “gunfight at the OK Corral” in 1881. The gunfight happened in a vacant lot that has come to
be known as the OK Corral. Although only three people were killed during the
gunfight, it is generally regarded as the most famous gunfight in the history
of the west. Wyatt Earp,
his brothers Morgan and
Virgil Earp and Doc Holliday fought Frank and Tom McLaury and Ike and Billy Clanton. Both McLaurys and Billy Clanton were killed. Morgan and
Virgil Earp were wounded. Smith, a rancher in Texarkana on the Texas-Arkansas
border, owns the two wagons and the mules pulling his wagon. The Colemans own the animals pulling the second wagon.
Carl Coleman also operates a ranch and Dustin owns the Double C Trucking
Company. A sign on Smith’s wagon touts their mule sales but
says, “We don’t rent pigs.” “We have been planning the trip for three years,”
Denise Smith said. The covered wagon they are riding in is equipped with a
king-size bed, bathroom, sink, “Mr. Buddy” heater, solar panel, citizen band
radio, hot water heater and running lights, among the modern conveniences. The foursome spent Sunday night in Dryden and Monday
night in Sanderson. They planned to continue west to Marathon, Alpine,
Marfa, Valentine and Van Horn on their trek across Southwest Texas. County
to vote on budget next week SANDERSON – No one spoke at pubic hearings last week
and again Tuesday on the budget and tax rate for Terrell County for fiscal
year 2008 beginning Oct. 1. The county has formally proposed a tax rate of 24.24 cents per $100 valuation for “maintenance and
operations” and 3.71 cents for debt service. The total rate of 27.95 cents, still one of the lowest
in the state, would finance a total budget of $3.37 million. County Treasurer Lynda Helmers said the total budget
includes funding from sources other than taxes such as fees and other county
income. SANDERSON – The First Calvary Baptist Church of Sanderson
has invited the public to a week of revival meetings with Sanderson’s own
Matt Green next week. Services begin with the 11 a.m. worship service Sunday,
Sept. 9, at First Calvary Baptist Church, 2nd and Oak Street, and continue
nightly at 6 p.m., concluding on Sunday, Sept. 16. The son of Cindy Green and grandson of Pastor Paul and
Glenda Ray, Matt was raised with his two brothers Paul and Anthony in Sanderson and graduated
from Sanderson High School in 2002. He attended Ambassador Baptist College in Lattimore,
NC, and recently graduated with a Bachelor of Evangelism. Matt is married and he and his wife Arianne have two
children, Malachi and Isabella. They currently live in Saluda, NC. Matt was called to the ministry at age 17 while attending First Calvary Baptist Church here. Throughout his years at Ambassador Matt had a standing
engagement to preach at a campground in Cherokee, NC, and gained valuable
experience preaching to various age groups. “He has become a forceful preacher and plans to enter
full-time evangelism,” the Rev. Ray said. “Matt was much loved by kids and
adults alike while living in Sanderson and has grown into a fine young man,
full of promise and on fire for the Lord.” SANDERSON – There has been a decrease of something like
210 tons of old junk cars, refrigerators and other refuse from Terrell County
in the last two weeks. The county has contracted with Odessa Wrecker Service to
remove the debris, allowing it to be sold for scrap. The county is not paying for the service but the
contractor can keep what he can get by selling the scrap metal. The county gains by improving the appearance of the community. George Carter said he and George Carter, Jr., picked up
about 30 old cars and about 350,000 pounds of old refrigerators, washing
machines and the like last week. A crusher compacted the scrap at the Terrell County
landfill and Carter hauled away seven 18-wheel flatbed truckloads of debris. He said they will be back next week, trying to get 50
old cars per week until the last of the cars has been acquired. What is not carried off will be buried in a pit at the landfill. Carter said the old cars have been an “eyesore” and he
can get about $40 per ton, or about $60 per car. The other scrap can also be
sold to be recycled. “What they are trying to do by removing old cars is to
help clean up the town,” Carter said. “If he can make some money, that’s great,” County Judge
Leo Smith said. “We gain by getting the county cleaned up at no cost to us.” Dismissal
motion filed in Wool case By MELISSA PERNER Editor and
Publisher Ozona
Stockman LUBBOCK – A
motion to dismiss has been filed in federal court to try and settle
and the Wool Growers Central Storage Co. bankruptcy case. Last week’s motion asked the court to dismiss the
Chapter 11 case. Wool Growers filed for bankruptcy in April, 2006. The motion came after US Bankruptcy Judge Robert L.
Jones denied the reorganization plan on July 19. “Since that didn’t work out, we thought that maybe we
could accomplish the same thing outside of bankruptcy,” Wool Growers
bankruptcy attorney Byrnie Bass. “This, we think, is the fastest and best way
to get almost the same amount of money to the creditors if our plan had been
confirmed.” Court documents say the Wool Growers board of directors
have deposited $2.6 million to be paid to the creditors and claimants in the
case with escrow agent Walter O’Ches-key. The directors are George Bunger Jr., Bill Black and
John Allison. Out of the $2.6 million contribution, $191,700.73 will go toward professional fees for the attorneys, $3,000
to O’Cheskey, $30,795.32 to the Mohair Producers Board, $158,141.69 to trade
claims and $2,215,496.85 to producer claimants. The balance of $865.84 will be applied to any
unexpected expenses incurred by O’Ches-key or returned to Wool Growers to be
applied to the US Trustee’s fees. After all distributions have been made, or after the
expiration of 90 days from the date that the order dismissing the case
becomes final, O’Cheskey will return any remaining funds to Wool Growers to
paid back to the three directors on the promissory note executed by Wool
Growers to the directors as consideration for their contribution, court
documents said. “I can’t think of any three men more honored character
than these board of directors,” Bass said. “They are good citizens.” The amount of producer claims filed in the case comes
to $3.3 million. Of that, $30,795.32 will go to the Mohair Producers Board
due to a court approved settlement and agreement. All of the producer claims will be sent a form of release of any and all claims or causes of action in
exchange for a dividend in the approximate amount of 67.75 cents on the
dollar in the amount of their claim filed and allowed in this case and in
full satisfaction of the claim, court documents said. The money will then be disbursed by O’Cheskey. The court papers said if a producer chooses not to sign
the release and accepts the settlement, his unpaid dividend will be returned
to Wool Growers to be paid back by Wool Growers to the three directors on the
promissory note executed by Wool Growers to the directors. The creditors committee, which helped with the
bankruptcy’s reorganization plan, has approved this motion and settlement,
Bass said. The producer “hasn’t lost anything and they can still
go ahead and exercise their legal rights,” he said. A hearing has been set for 1:30 p.m. Oct. 4 at the
Federal Courthouse in San Angelo if an objection or other response is filed
on the motion to dismiss. The judge will rule on the motion if no objection or
response is filed. Only one group of creditors has filed motions
throughout the bankruptcy process objecting to the Wool Growers plan. MNL September 7, 2007 MARATHON – The Marathon Mustang football team came out
second best in their opening season game at Imperial Friday when the Buena
Vista Longhorns embarrassed Marathon 57 to 12. Cito Hernandez ran 12 yards for one touchdown while
Devin Kolesar caught a 45-yard pass from Colten Johnson to put up six more. Coach Peńa told the News Leader the boys would focus on playing hard and conditioning. Tonight, the boys will hit the road again, this time
headed for Grandfalls to take on the Cowboys. “We will work very hard to prepare ourselves,” Peńa
said. Earlier this week, the Lady Mustangs traveled to Fort
Stockton to meet the Comstock Panthers for a little time on the volleyball
court. The Mustangs lost. Peńa feels that a few of the younger girls are still a
little nervous, but went on to say “they’ll be fine.” This weekend the girls will travel to Buena Vista for a
tournament. Peńa likes tournaments because it gives the girls a lot
of playtime and is a good experience. Popular
Marathon coffee bar ends run MARATHON – There is one less place to get a bite to eat
in Marathon after the closing of the Marathon Coffee Shop. Paul Dupree re-opened the café last year after it had
been closed for a period. But Dupree and his wife Carolyn have become new parents
and will not reopen the coffee shop. The Gage hotel owns the building but Hotel Manager
Wilma Schindler said there are no immediate plans for the café at this time. But, because of the lack of restaurants in town, the
hotel has opened Café Cenizo for breakfast in the mornings, Schindler said. MARATHON –
A hot-air balloon from the Big Balloon Bash in Alpine paid a call on Marathon
last week. Walter
Hawkins pilots the enormous ride, Midnight Angel. “It was
really quite a sight,” Andrea Johnson told the News Leader. She said
other people in town saw the balloon being inflated and “headed for the track
field.” She
estimated around 100 people showed up. The
students got an up-close look as Hawkins told a little about ballooning history. When
finished, the football team helped fold up the “envelope.” Fifteen
balloons showed for this years annual Big Balloon Bash in Alpine. The “bash”
has been happening annually for 12 years and has been moved from the Alpine
Regional Airport to Sierra La Rana, a gated community just two miles south of
Alpine on State Highway 118. Its three
days of flying, vendors and fun for all ages held every Labor Day weekend and
is currently drawing in 2,000 to 3,000 people. Financial
sponsors are the City of Alpine and the Alpine Chamber of Commerce. There was
a “fire concert” Sunday at Buck Stadium where the balloons fire up a symphony
at the direction of a band director. The
balloons make the “music” by turning on their thrusters at the direction of
the conductor. Check out
their website at bigbendballoonbash.com. By MARILYN SHACKELFORD News
Leader History Writer MARATHON – The Marathon Baptist Church was organized as
an independent missionary Baptist Church on February 6, 1898, in the
clubhouse, which at that time was the schoolhouse. A charge, in which members were directed to take the
word of God as their supreme authority in doctrine and practice, was
delivered to the church by Elder J.E. Bell. Charter members were Charles Totty (the only man), A.
Dickson, M.E. Hatch, Ella Hatch, S.W. Walker, Leta Rooney and Edan Hatch. Brother L.D.
Simpson, my great grandfather, was the first deacon elected on November 13,
1898. There was a discipline committee appointed by the
church, which “churched” (removed from the fellowship) unruly members guilty
of dancing or of behavior the committee thought unfitting for a Christian. These members were restored to the fellowship when they
acknowledged their wrong. If they failed to do this, the committee visited
them and tried to show them the error of their ways. This practice was discontinued in later years. On March 8, 1903, $600 was subscribed to start a
building for church meetings. The building committee included Dr. Beakley, Charles
Totty of membership, Deacon L.D. Simpson and Pastor C.E. Summers. In 1906, another building committee was appointed,
consisting of William Rogers, L.D. Simpson, Homer Spruce and Fred Clark. A
later member of the building committee was John Marshall. Most of the work was done by members and volunteer carpenters. It is believed that the building
was completed between 1907 and 1910. The minutes of August 28, 1910, state that Brother Fred
Clark was appointed to collect from members of the church a sufficient amount
to insure the building and fixtures against fire for the amount of $1,500. After this entry there is a lapse of 14 years in the
church records. However, it is known that the Reverend D.E. Adams of Alpine
came for many years one Sunday each month to preach. Sixty active members are listed in the church book for 1924. From this time on there are no records until 1930. For
most of the time, the church had a pastor for regular services. This was for only one Sunday of the month. They had
Sunday school regularly. In 1943, they had church every two Sundays during the
month. In 1947, the first full time pastor was hired. His name
was Brother Parsley. Mrs. John Yarbro told him she was so glad that they
finally had a preacher who had an easy name to remember. The very next
Sunday, she arrived at church and called him Mr. Celery. She used to tell
this story on herself. When the new parsonage was built in 1950, Brother
Hollis Croft was the first pastor to live in it. That same year, the State Board granted the church $500
to add Sunday school rooms. Two rooms were added above the existing rooms at the
north end of the church. This made the church two stories in the north
location. At the entrance, there were two more rooms built on either side of the door. The baptistery was put in
the church in 1953. Ted Colston, a local welder and mechanic, donated his
time to help build it. Mrs. J.J. Miles painted a picture of Christ praying in
the garden and presented it to the church in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie
Martin. At this time I have to tell a story about myself. When Brother Croft came, I was attending the Baptist
Church. The trouble with the situation was I loved to dance. You can see
right away I was in deep trouble. Saturday night, I went to a dance at the Post with Mama
and Daddy and Gayle, my sister. The next morning, I got up and went to
Church. During the service, Brother Croft said that if anyone
danced, they were not welcome in the Church and were going to Hell. Believe me, I got up, got my Bible and headed for the
door. I walked down the street to the Methodist Church and
there I have remained. How times have changed, as at one dance later on in the
years, I danced with one of the Baptist preachers at the Post. The Baptists have a long and interesting history. They
have received some large memorials and have refurbished the inside and
outside of the church. The two upstairs rooms have been taken out and the
grounds have been landscaped. T.J. Joyner is the preacher at the Baptist Church and
he and his wife, Tracy, are doing a wonderful job with the Marathon kids and
the church. They welcome you to Church on Sunday. Go and give a smile. PTO
to visit 'Alice in Wonderland' MARATHON – The Marathon Parent Teacher Organization is
planning on a trip for elementary students this month. At the first PTO meeting last week, the non-profit
organization made plans to take the entire elementary school to see Alice in
Wonderland on September 18. President Judy Briones and other volunteers will
accompany the kids to Gatti Land for lunch and then on to the show at the Globe Theater in Odessa. The group will have a fundraiser at the West Fest on
September 22, where they will sell cotton candy and snow cones. Marathon ISD will forward the money for the trip and
the PTO will reimburse the cost to the district. In keeping with the Alice in Wonderland theme, the
youngsters are now reading the story and the classrooms are filled with imagination as the kids work
on wonderland art projects. The fee for joining the PTO has dropped this year to
$10 for families and $25 for businesses. “You don’t have to have children to become a member,
just someone who cares and wants to be involved with the kids,” Briones said. ALPINE – One tradition led to many others for new Sul
Ross State University students. Nearly 400 new students, joined by faculty and staff,
attended the ninth annual new student convocation last week in Marshall
Auditorium. The yearly event is designed to introduce students to
the traditions of Sul Ross and encourage commitment and participation in the
university community. President R. Vic Morgan welcomed the Class of 2011 by
urging them to become a part of the Sul Ross tradition and serious investors
in their education. “You made the right choice in choosing Sul Ross,”
Morgan said. “I hope you choose to set as a goal a degree in four years and truly
be a member of the Class of 2011.” Student Government Association president Jaime Rios of
Roma urged the new students to make the most of their university experience. Morgan emphasized the importance of Sul Ross traditions
and academic traditions in general as a means to build continuity,
cohesiveness and pride in the culture and heritage of university life. He referred to the new student convocation, painting and lighting the Bar-SR-Bar at Homecoming and
hiking to the desk at the top of Hancock Mountain as some of the Sul Ross
traditions. “Traditions can be a vital part of an institution and
the traditional part of your experience should become a vital part of your
memories of your alma mater,” he said. “Get involved in campus life. Be a part of the Bar-SR-Bar
tradition, and start your own traditions, too,” Morgan said. “Start things
that are worthwhile.” He closed his remarks to the Class of 2011 with
questions. “Will this be the best year of your life?” he asked.
“Will you achieve the goals you set? If you compete in athletics or perform
on stage, will you strive to do the best you can in any endeavor? “Can you accomplish all your goals?” Morgan asked. “Can
you make a difference?” "As students, you have the opportunity to succeed
or fail,” he said. “As former Secretary of Education [Richard] Riley said,
‘it is also to insist that you become a serious investor in your own
education.’ “You made the right choice and you’re about to become
part of the tradition and culture that is Sul Ross,”" he said. “You made the right choice so
plan to get involved and to get a degree in four years.” Provost and Vice President for Academic and Student
Affairs Dr. David Cockrum gave a brief history of Sul Ross and its namesake,
Lawrence Sullivan Ross, who was Texas Ranger, Civil War hero, Governor and
Texas A&M University president. Gregory Schwab, associate vice president of Enrollment
Management, welcomed new students to the campus and presented the class to
Dr. Morgan. The convocation included a charge to the entering class
and the passing of the spirit stick from Luke “Spike” Miller, to Leobardo
Nunez, a Class of 2011 member. The convocation concluded with singing the “Alma
Mater,” led by Dr. Donald Freed, associate professor of Music. Dr. Justin Badgerow, assistant professor of music,
played the Processional and Recessional. Annual Fall on the Mall activities followed on the
University Mall. Sul
Ross offers new NRM program ALPINE – The Sul Ross State University Department of
Natural Resource Management is offering a new degree concentration in
Conservation Biology. The NRM department currently offers concentrations in
Wildlife Management, Range Management, and now Conservation Biology. The new program refocuses the former Ecosystem
Management concentration. “The Con Bio program is a result of student demand,”
Department Chair Dr. Louis Harveson said. “Within the last five or so years
we have noticed an increase in the number of students in our program that
didn’t really fit in our Wildlife or Range program.” He said students wanted a program that was broader and
that focused on environmental issues and community involvement. “I think they’ll find a home in our Con Bio program,”
he said. Conservation biology is an action-oriented science
focused on the protection and restoration of the Earth’s biological
diversity. The department’s goal is to make the Conservation
Biology Program an interdisciplinary program spanning biology, geology,
sociology, education, natural resource management, and policy. Students in the Conservation Biology Program will be
trained in a wide variety of disciplines including wildlife ecology and
management, rangeland ecology and restoration, population dynamics and
modeling, systems and spatial analysis and environmental law and policy. New faculty member Dr. Patricia Moody Harveson is the
program adviser. She received her Ph.D. in Wildlife Science from Texas
A&M University and her M.S. from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Her research interests include population ecology,
systems analysis and modeling, environmental policy and the use of GIS and
remote sensing in natural resource conservation. Her current research projects include studying the impacts
of urbanization on endangered Florida Key deer and a regional project focused
on the landscape ecology and metapopulation dynamics of mountain lion and
black bear populations in west Texas and northern Mexico. Moody Harveson will also serve as the primary advisor
for the SRSU Chapter of the Society for Conservation Biology. The Club’s mission is to promote interdisciplinary
collaboration across the university and local community. encourage
volunteerism on local, national and international levels and support the
sustainable use of natural resources and the conservation of biological
diversity. Club president is Catherine Brown. Other Club officers
include Vice President Tara Poloskey and Treasurer Masahiro Ohnishi. “We’re hoping to have a broad mix of members from the
university and local community,” Moody Harveson said. “We see ourselves
working closely with the Alpine community and surrounding areas through
volunteer projects like the community garden and recycling program. “Education and outreach will also be a big focus for
the club and we plan to work with area schools to encourage and promote our
mission,” she said. “The club is also planning some fun camping trips to
various parks and we hope to take many of our members to the national meeting
for the Society of Conservation Biology this summer.” Meeting times and dates for the Conservation Biology
Club will be posted on campus and around town. By CHUCK HALL Culture
Artist What’s the difference between a vegetarian and a vegan?
The crux of the matter is in how you define the term “vegetarian.” To some people, “vegetarian” means that they don’t eat
anything that an animal had to die for. The common phrase is, “I don’t eat anything that had a
face.” To others, “vegetarian” means that not only do they not
eat anything that once had a face but they don’t eat anything that came from
an animal, period. This includes animal by-products like eggs, cheese and
other dairy goods. The word vegan, usually pronounced “VEE-gun,” was
originally derived from the word “vegetarian” in 1944. Environmentalists and founders of the United Kingdom
Vegan Society, Elsie Shrigley and Donald Watson, became frustrated that the
term “vegetarianism” had come to include eating dairy products. They combined the first three and last two letters of “vegetarian” to form “vegan,” which they saw as “the
beginning and end of vegetarian.” The British Vegan Society defines veganism in this way: “The word ‘veganism’ denotes a philosophy and way of
living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practical, all forms
of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other
purpose and, by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free
alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals and the environment. “In dietary terms, it denotes the practice of
dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.” Incidentally, Donald Watson lived to be 95 years old so
he must have been onto something. So in modern usage, a vegan doesn’t eat anything that
came from an animal. (There is some controversy over honey, though, which
some vegans, including myself, eat.) A vegetarian, on the other hand, may eat animal
products as long as there is no animal death involved. Such a diet may include dairy and eggs, so a few more terms were coined. A lacto-vegetarian is a person who doesn’t eat meat but
who eats dairy products. A lacto-ovo-vegetarian eats dairy products and eggs.
A pescaterian eats fish but does not eat other animals. Some pescaterians
also eat dairy and eggs, while others do not. Confused yet? I have a theory that most people become
vegans just so they don’t have to call themselves “lacto-ovo-pescaterian
vegetarians.” But seriously, in spite of all the labels out there,
there are a lot of benefits to limiting or eliminating animal products
altogether from your diet. Next week we’ll look at some of the studies on the
benefits of vegan and vegetarian diets. In the meantime, visit the Vegan
Society’s site at http://www.vegansociety.com/html. Chuck Hall is a Sustainability Consultant and author.
His latest book, “Green Circles: A Sustainable Journey from the Cradle to the
Grave,” is now available at the Culture Artist Web site at
www.cultureartist.org. You may contact Chuck by email at chuck@cultureartist.org. TCNL September 14, 2007 Border Patrol Station formally opens SANDERSON – It only took three years and two months but
the US Border Patrol station in west Sanderson is now officially a reality. A large group of citizens, delegates, school children
and others showed up under cool, cloudy skies Wednesday for a formal ribbon
cutting on the $4.8 million facility. It came six years and one day from the worst terrorist
attack on US soil, a fact that was not lost in several of the dedicatory
speeches. Keynote speaker
Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Carry Huffman noted that the delay in opening the
facility brought to the light the “challenges” the patrol faces. “In response to these challenges, we have had
unprecedented growth,” he said. “A catalyst to that grown came six years ago
yesterday. Through tragedy come the real heroes, the people who provide us
with a safe and a great place to live.” He said the heroes are not athletes, movie stars or
politicians but people in law enforcement, emergency medical service, fire
fighters and others dedicated to protecting the community. “Some people are willing to die just to kill us,”
Huffman said. “But we honor those who are willing to die to save us.” He said 103 agents are on the “roll of honor,” people
who gave their lives for our freedom. The 16,000-square-foot facility houses the growing
contingent of Border Patrol Agents assigned to the area. Sanderson has already received a significant increase
in agents and will continue to do so over the next two years, the agency
said. While no specific numbers have been released, the
agency has said staffing at the Sanderson station will triple within three
years. “When we had groundbreaking at the start of 2004, it
was supposed to take 18 months and it’s been three years and two months,”
Sanderson Patrol Agent in Charge Ernest Rodriguez said. “But when you see the
building you will see it has been worth the wait.” Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, the public was
given tours of the building and refreshments were served. There also were demonstrations by Border Patrol K9s,
the Sector Response Team, the Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue Team
and by the Marfa Sector’s recruiting personnel. Referring to the delay, Patrol public relations officer
and master of ceremonies Bill Brooks said the February 26, 2004, groundbreaking
“seems like it was prehistoric at this point.” Cesar Blanco,
deputy district director for US Rep. Ciro Rodriguez, read a letter from his
boss noting the Marfa Border Patrol sector is one of the finest in the
country. He noted the community also contributes to the success
of the agency through its support. “I’m one of the
luckiest sheriffs on the border and you can ask any of the 26 other
sheriffs,” Terrell County Sheriff Clint McDonald said. He noted the professionalism of the Border Patrol and
the Sanderson station have served the community well. It took over three years to complete the $4.8 million
facility, primarily because the initial contractor defaulted. The construction of the building was managed by the
United States Army Corps of Engineers. Among those honored was Eddie Zion of
the Corps of Engineers. SANDERSON – The Sanderson Eagles came home for the
first game of the season before a home crowd last week, much improved over
the week before but still just shy of their first victory. It was “Parents Night” and, before the game began,
parents of players, cheerleaders and other participants were honored. In a closely-fought contest with the Water Valley
Wildcats, Sanderson sent their guests home with a narrow 47-44 victory and
the second loss of the new season for the Eagles. The blood-letting started early as junior running back
Johnathan Garcia started the scoring for the visiting team with a 52-yard
scamper with a little over a minute gone in the game. He would give the Eagles fits all night with long runs. The point-after kick by sophomore Tanner Latham was
wide of the mark and the Eagles were down 6-0. But the orange and black moved down the field and, a
little over two minutes later, sophomore Eagle Ryan Rosas ran in from the
seven and Ben Rubio split the uprights with his kick. The Eagles led 8-6. With 1:47 left on the first-quarter clock, Ben scooped
up a fumble and ran 38 yards for pay dirt. He turned around and booted the
PAT and it was 14-6 Eagles, an advantage that only lasted for a few seconds. On the ensuing kickoff, Garcia galloped 70 yards for
another score. This time Latham found the mark and it was 16-14 Eagles. Sparked by a 34-yard pass from Ryan Rosas to senior
Isaac “Bubba” Ramirez as the quarter wound down, senior Raul Salazar found
sophomore Jacob Benavidez in the end zone for a ten-yard score. Ben booted
the PAT and the Eagles led 24-14. But the Wildcats roared back three minutes later as Garcia galloped 19 yards for a score. The PAT failed on a high snap but the visitors had
narrowed the lead to 24-20. Jacob Benavidez took the ensuing kickoff the length of
the field for what appeared to be an Eagle score but it was called back on a
penalty. As the half wound down, sophomore Sheyenne Smith ran it
in for six more for the Wildcats and Latham added two more. The teams went to the locker room at intermission with
the visitors ahead 28-24. But the Eagles would again take the lead and Jacob
would get his long run back as he returned the kickoff 68 yards. This time it
counted and Darren Seidel added two more with his toe. It was now 32-28
Eagles. Garcia again put the Wildcats on top less than four
minutes later, running it in from the six. The PAT failed and it was Wildcats
34, Eagles 32. The Wildcats recovered an on-side kickoff at the Eagle
36 and Sheyenne Smith extended the lead moments later, running it in from the
16. The Eagles blocked the PAT kick but it was now 40-32
Wildcats. The visitors extended their lead to 47-32 when the
ever-present Johnathan Garcia romped 56 yards for a TD. Sophomore Cason Wood found senior Shaylen Ascol in the
end-zone for a single-point conversion. In six-man football, the conversion rule is reversed
from the 11-man variety. It’s two points for a kick and one for a run or
pass. With a 15-point deficit, many fans headed for home in
the fourth quarter. But the Eagles were not done. With 4:51 left in the game, Jacob threw to Ryan Rosas
for a 40-yard gain and Jacob then ran in from the four. The PAT failed and it
was 47-38. The Eagles scored again with 1:34 left on a 20-yard
pass play from Ben Rubio to Jacob. The PAT failed on a high snap and the
47-44 score went into the record books. Ben was five for nine in the passing department for 75
yards and one touchdown. Jacob took over while Ben nursed a sore knee and was
two for three for 43 yards. Raul Salazar was one for one for 10 yards and a TD and
Ryan Rosas tossed an incompletion. In rushing yardage, Ryan carried nine times for 58
yards and one TD, followed by Phillip Lascano with ten for 35. Raul and Jacob both carried eight times, Jacob for 37
and one TD and Raul for 31 yards. Jacob also received three for 37 yards and two TDs.
Phillip had two for 32, Ryan had one for 34 and Jaime Rodriguez hauled one in
for 16 yards. Tonight, Sept. 14, the Eagles travel toFort Davis to
take on the ever-tough Indians. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. “They always play us tough,” Head Coach Mark Dominguez
said. “But if we make sure we have eliminated our mental mistakes, we should
be OK.” Dominguez said the Eagles were much improved last week
over the week before when they lost to Grady 58-8 but more improvement is
needed. “We had four turnovers, one at a crucial point just
before the half,” he said. “It’s a lot easier to play than to fight back. “If we eliminate turnovers and the mistakes, I think
we’ll be OK,” Dominguez said. “We’re going to have to block and we’re going
to have to execute. It’s got to be block and tackle, tackle, tackle. “It was a big change from the Grady game,” he said.
“I’m looking for the boys to keep on improving.” County
OKs community plan SANDERSON – The population of Terrell County will grow
by 250 residents in the next ten years but will revert to its present
population of 1,081 by 2040. That was one of the conclusions of a planning study by
GrantWorks of Austin, approved Monday by County Commissioners. “We are already seeing some of that increase with the
Border Patrol and oilfield workers,” said Jerry Carvajal of Alpine,
GrantWorks director for West Texas. Marilyn Shashoua, planning services manger for
GrantWorks of Austin, told the News Leader all population estimates by the
State Data Center show decreases in population later in the century because
the “baby boomer” population boost will have ended by then. Carvajal said there are 880 residents in Sanderson, 43
in Lomita Terrace, 106 in the Newberry Addition and 19 in Dryden. “I was very impressed with the town,” Carvajal said.
“You have a very clean town.” The study identified 476 homes in Sanderson, of which 417 were occupied. There were 17 homes in Lomita
Terrace, all occupied, and 68 in Newberry Addition, 50 of which were
occupied. Of the Sanderson homes, he said, 194 were in “good”
condition, 137 were “fair” and 145 were in “poor” condition. The water and sewer system is “very well maintained,”
he said. The only “concern” cited in the study was the possible replacement
of two 42,000-gallon water storage tanks on Javelina Hill with a single
225,000-gallon tank. He estimated the total cost of such a replacement at $365,000. Providing a new water well for Dryden was estimated at
$200,000 and Carvajal said he was “not sure that is feasible” for nine homes. The sewer system in Sanderson is “in excellent shape”
but Dryden is now serviced by “antiquated cesspools,” he said. Putting Dryden on the sewer system was “not feasible”
but it could be upgraded to a septic system, which he estimated at $8,000 per unit, something for
which grant money is available. Carvajal said GrantWorks can help the county apply for
such grants. He said Sanderson is “very lucky” to have so many
streets paved but there are a few that still need paving. Drainage needs upgrading but it is “almost impossible”
to get funding from the US Office Rural Community Affairs because that is a
“very low priority” for the agency, he said. The county has acquired a drainage study from Landgraf
Crutcher Associates of Odessa and is implementing it in phases. The first phase on Pine Street east of Fifth was funded
largely by a Texas Department of Transportation “Border Colonias” grant. The county has started a second project a block north
on Hackberry using county resources. Cactus Chat:Football brings out visitors By KIM RAPP News Leader Production Manager SANDERSON – Football always seem to bring
out – or in – out of town visitors. The Sanderson Eagles first home game was
no different. Among the visitors were Johnny &
Carmella Gomez, proud parents of Kim Dominguez. They hail from Balmorhea but are Eagle fans
through and through. They travel to all Eagle games, including
Grady or wherever the schedule takes us. The News Leader asked Carmella what happens
when we play the Balmorhea Bears. “GO
EAGLES,” she said. Also in town were Josiah Nevarez and his
fiancée, Michelle Mendoza. They were here to visit grandparents Joe & Rosario
Fuentes. They currently reside in Lubbock and enjoyed a trip to
Ciudad Acuńa, Coah, and Del Rio. They also enjoyed a peaceful weekend with Joe &
Rosario. Nevarez is the son of John & Christina Nevarez
ofMidland. Christina grew up in Sanderson. In town for training is Matt Green. In fact, there are
two Matt Greens in town, no relation to each other. One is an ultimate fighter training with Adam Johnson. He hails from Carlsbad, NM. The 19 year old is new on the circuit, fighting for
only nine months now. “This kid is
destined for title contingency,” Johnson told the News Leader. “We are thrilled to have
him.” The “we” referred to Round One Fight Trainers, LLC. Johnson is the primary shareholder & CEO of the
organization. Green is currently training for his next fight in
October in Lufkin. The other Matt Green is an SHS graduate of ‘02,
currently residing in Saluda, NC, with wife Arianne and their two children
Malachi and Isabella. Green is in town preaching revival all week at the
First Calvary Baptist Church. He is the Grandson of Pastor Paul & Glenda Ray. tax rate for 2007-2008 SANDERSON – Terrell County Commissioners Monday
approved a $7.29 million budget for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 and a
total tax rate of 27.95 cents per $100 valuation. “We spent quite a bit of time getting the wording
right,” County Judge Leo Smith said. The state has mandated specific wording that must be
used to adopt a budget and tax rate. County Treasurer Lynda Helmers said the total budget
includes debt service. It includes all anticipated spending for the coming
fiscal year. In making the motion, Commissioner Kenn Norris used
state wording to say the adopted tax rate will provide an increase in revenue
of 15.8 percent over the current year but reduce taxes by 10.15 percent. He said the reduction would amount to a decrease of
$27.40 for a $100,000 home from $269.80 in the current year to $242.40 in the coming year. Norris added that this is the county tax rate only. The
school tax rate, for example, is higher than the county rate but still lower
than last year. Terrell County School District last week adopted a tax
rate of $1.16 per $100 valuation. Commissioners also approved a salary schedule discussed
earlier providing a six-percent increase in employee pay. And the court time and date for regular meetings at 9
a.m. on the second Monday of the month, unchanged from the current year, and
a holiday schedule essentially the same. In other action, commissioners approved the hiring of
John Corry Hefner and Roger Dale Stratton as “tech one, level one,
entry-level” workers for the county Road and Bridge Department and Erica
Bartley as an assistant librarian. Stratton moves up from a temporary summertime employee
to a permanent position. Bartley, who has also been retained as a part-time
emergency medical technician, will work 20 hours per week in the library. She is the wife of Deputy Sheriff Steve Bartley who
recently returned to the county position. The family had to move to the Lubbock area last year
because of cancer in the arm of a child but the disease is now in remission
and the family has returned to Sanderson. And commissioners appointed Consuelo Galvan, Monica
Graham, Nancy Stegall and Carolyn Hutto as election judges for the coming
year. Homecoming
2007 to honor past royalty SANDERSON – Jessie Mae McClellan of Sanderson will be a
special guest at the 2007 Homecoming Sept. 28 as Terrell County school honors
homecoming royalty of the past 50 years. McClellan, SHS queen of 1957 and a long-time Sanderson
Elementary teacher, will be featured in the homecoming parade and will be
presented at the pre-game coronation ceremony Friday before the Sanderson-Grandfalls
game. Other past queens and royalty include 1947 Queen Nancy
Peavey, 1967 Queen Amelia Escamilla, 1967 Queen Jeanette Kerr, 1987 Queen
Jill Rose and 1997 King and Queen Violita Lopez and Francisco Lopez. “We are looking forward to this new and exciting year,”
Superintendent Gary Hamilton said. “The students work hard to make this event special. “Our cheerleaders and student council work tirelessly
to have a super extravaganza,” he said. “The school appreciates the community
support that is so freely given. We hope everyone comes out to have a great
time.” Hamilton also announced the candidates for 2007. Queen nominees are Hannah Black, Rosa Gonzalez, Danell
Graham and Irma Nuńez. Candidates for king are Leo Busch, Ben Rubio, Raul
Salazar and Davis Stumberg. Class princesses are freshman Ernestina Gonzalez,
sophomore Blakeney Chriesman and junior Raquel Hinkley. The SHS Student Council is in charge of the homecoming festivities that include a bonfire and
parade on Thursday, Sept. 27, the junior class barbecue on Friday and the
presentation of the new king and queen and class princesses prior to kick off
on game night. There will be a special pep rally on Friday afternoon. The junior class barbecue fundraiser will include
brisket and sausage cooked by David Brotherton. Tickets are on sale from any junior class member for $5
or $6 at the door. The junior class raises funds to pay for the prom and
the 2007-08 banquet. SANDERSON – Aerial hunting of predators in Terrell and
Pecos Counties this week has resulted in several kills with two helicopter
services flying to ranches where livestock have been killed. Steve Forest of Dryden and Phil Johnston of Kerville
bagged three coyotes and a skunk in south and east Terrell County on the
first day Monday, flying a Robinson R-22 helicopter. Flying out of Bobby Stegall’s ranch north of Sanderson,
Gary Hutto of Sanderson and pilot Terry Honaker of Smith Helicopters of Pecos
killed two coyotes and a feral hog on the first day. Terrell County Commissioners last month agreed to
transfer $25,000 in the current budget and to include $50,000 in next year’s
budget to finance an aerial hunter to control predators and rabies. The contractors will provide 20 to 22 hours a month for
predator control and have a helicopter available for three to five hours per
month for search and rescue if needed. Hours not used for SAR could be rolled back into predator
control, under the program. Terrell County Commissioners appointed County Judge Leo
Smith, Commissioner Charles Stegall and rancher Gary Hutto to a committee to
oversee the program. Representing Pecos County are County Judge Joe Shuster,
County Commissioner George Riggs and rancher D.A. Harral. Trapper Hoppy Turman is the seventh member of the committee. Terrell County Commissioners agreed to transfer funds
from the contingency fund to a line item for trapping and predator control. “We’ve got to do something,” Hutto told the News
Leader. “We need this for rabies control as much as anything. “It’s really getting bad to the north of here and it
could come down these canyons in no time,” he said. There have been several reports of people attacked by
rabid bobcats and other predators in communities just north of Terrell County. Hutto said predators also killed off many fawns in the
hunting season last fall. Changes
grace football sidelines By KIM RAPP News
Leader Production Manager SANDERSON – There is a new face and a few other changes
on the sidelines this year as the Sanderson Eagle football team plays its
season. Jeremy Calzada of Monahans has offered his services as
an athletic trainer. Calzada, the grandson of Tony and Edelmira Calzada, is
a physical therapist in Fort Stockton. He contacted TCISD and inquired about the position and got the job. He will travel to all the games, wrapping up,
stretching out and checking out our boys, which frees up the coaches to do
their jobs – coaching the team to victory. Another change is that the team has gone “hi-tech.” All the coaches are wearing headsets this year. They coaches use the headsets so they can communicate
with each other. That’s not a problem when they are all along the
sideline but this allows one coach to go upstairs to the press box and get a
different view of the field and then relay information to the coaches on the
field. Coach Leighton Conway said the headsets are similar to
hand-held two-way radios. “They’re fairly simple,” he said. Other
high schools in the area seem to have had the same idea and are also “miked
up.” Danell
to head student council SANDERSON – Danell Graham has been elected president of
the Sanderson High School Student Council. Vice president is Hannah Black, Blakeney Chriesman will be treasurer and David Shoemaker is
secretary. Davis Stumberg and Jenny Hernandez were elected senior
class representatives. The junior class selected Jimmy Rapp and Raquel
Hinkley. The sophomores chose newcomer Jake Hall and Elise Boyd and the fish
voted in Ralston Rosas and Taylor Johnson to represent them. SANDERSON – A “workshop” on what is desired for a new
Terrell County Convention Center at Oak and Second Streets will be at 9:30
a.m. Monday, Sept. 24, as part of the next County Commissioners Court
meeting. “Next February it will have been four years since the
[Texas] attorney general said we had to build a convention center,” County
Judge Leo Smith said. “I don’t want to see us talk it to death. “This is going to be the biggest thing Terrell County
has ever done,” he said. Attorney General Gregg Abbott ruled that the county
could use a “venue tax” approved by the voters in 2000 “only” in connection
with a convention center. Smith asked County Commissioners Yolanda Lopez and
Della Fuentes to meet with architect Monty Hunter of Odessa and discuss ideas
for the facility. Hunter has been hired to plan the center as well as
repairs to the courthouse. Commissioner Kenn Norris said all commissioners should
be involved in the planning and suggested other ideas should be sought from
the public. “I am totally opposed to public meetings,” Smith said.
“There are seven people here today and if we had seven different ideas, it
would be a total fiasco.” Smith said when groups get involved, each wants it done
his way and when he doesn’t, he causes problems. “We’ve been threatened with a lawsuit three times over
this,” he said. Smith said his idea of letting two commissioners
oversee the project was based on a similar plan with the Bicentennial Park
improvements over seen by Commissioners Norris and Charles Stegall. “By this time next year, dirt will be turned” on the
convention center, Smith said. “We want this to be a showplace,” Norris said. “We
should all be involved in the planning.” SANDERSON – The cleanup of old junk cars, refrigerators
and other refuse from Terrell County continued this week with the removal of
several cars from Phelps Auto. Steve Cole of Slim’s Auto has bought the car repair
shop on Sanderson’s west side and agreed to provide the old cars. Odessa Wrecker Service has been retained to remove the
debris in an agreement with Terrell County. There is no cost to the county but Odessa Wrecker will
be allowed to sell the scrap metal. The county gains by improving the appearance of the
community. George Carter and George Carter, Jr., picked up about
30 old cars and about 350,000 pounds of old refrigerators, washing machines
and the like last week. This week, the cleanup continued. County Judge Leo Smith has suggested anyone with old
cars or other debris to contact his office and arrange for a pickup. A crusher compacted the scrap at the Terrell County
landfill last week and Carter hauled away seven 18-wheel flatbed truckloads
of debris. Carter said they will try to get 50 old cars per week
until the last of the cars has been acquired.
What is not carried off will be buried in a pit at the landfill. Carter said the old cars have been an “eyesore” and he
can get about $40 per ton, or about $60 per car. The other scrap can also be
sold to be recycled. “What they are trying to do by removing old cars is to
help clean up the town,” Carter said. “If he can make some money, that’s great,” County Judge
Leo Smith said. “We gain by getting the county cleaned up at no cost to us.” Cole asked the Carters to remove the catalytic
converters and rear axles from several of the old cars, which was done before
the cars were hauled off. County rec. to join Fort Stockton SANDERSON – The popular Terrell County recreation
program will join a similar organization in Fort Stockton to provide fall
sports for elementary school-aged children. Terrell County Commissioners Monday approved a payment
of $1,400 to register 40 children in the program. “The summer recreation program has ended but everywhere
in the world they play fall sports,” Organizer Tammy Truesdell told the
court. She said Alpine has a soccer league for children ages
four to 12 but Fort Stockton has a “full-blown recreation department.” She said that Alpine “treated us like step-children but
Fort Stockton was very happy to include us in their program.” Truesdell said the neighbors to the north offer tackle
football for children in grades three to six and flag football for children
in first and second grades. She said Sanderson could enter girl’s volleyball for
grades three to five and one team in each of two divisions of soccer for
Pre-K through second graders. Registration is $35 but Truesdell said with the county
contribution, parents will not be asked to pay. She said she would inquire about school buses from
Terrell County Independent School District, paying for fuel and a driver from
recreation department funds. The department has been funded through county contributions and donations. She said businesses would be solicited to provide
uniforms that could display the donor’s name on the back. All games would be on a Saturday and Truesdell said the
Fort Stockton recreation department has agreed not to start Sanderson games
before 9 a.m. to allow for travel time. She said Iraan may also join the Fort Stockton program. “This program has been great,” County Judge Leo Smith
said. “We can’t thank you enough.” Eagles
compete in cross country ALPINE – Travis Roberts placed eighth and Noemi Nuńez
ninth for the Sanderson Eagles cross-country team among 38 runners in the
high school event at a meet here last weekend. The girls are coached by Trisha Nichols and Leighton
Conway coached the boys. Noemi had the best time of the Eagles, running the
distance in 14:07. Placing 20 was Vicky Busch, in 28 was Miriam Nuńez,
Rosa Gonzales placed 29 and Ernestina Gonzales also ran in the meet. Travis finished with a time of 19:18.40. Jimmy Rapp placed 19, crossing the line in
22:44.50. Philip Lascano ran the five-kilometer
race in 23:40 and Kelly Lomas finished the race in 24:20.80. The junior high runs a three- kilometer race. Having the best time of 16 participants was Taylor Roberts,
clocking in at 12:29.20. Ryan Arthur ran the race in 14:37.70, placing fourth,
and Ryan Johnson placed 13, finishing the race in 19:14.00. The cross-country crew will run its next race in Wink
on September 23. SANDERSON – Cactus Health Services, Inc., of Sanderson
has appointed Teresa Andrews of Lone Grove, OK, as its director of
operations, effective Oct. 1. Andrews is a veteran of 30 years of health care
experience and 18 in management. She was practice manager for Ardmore Surgical
Associates of Ardmore, OK. Andrews took computer and basic courses at Ardmore
Higher Education business School. “We are still looking for a CEO,” public relations officer Melinda Maldonado said. CEO Candace Chandra resigned recently but has remained
on in a consulting capacity. SANDERSON – Terrell County Commissioners Monday
finalized a provisional contract tentatively awarded last month to Texas
Disposal Systems of Austin for trash collection in the county. The proposal was for 175 dumpsters to be emptied once
or twice per week for $150,000 per year.
County Judge Leo Smith said the county had been using
Duncan Disposal but the contract had expired. Duncan offered to provide the
service for $175,000 per year. County Attorney Marsha Monroe told the court TDS had
agreed to “98 percent” of what the county had requested. The company will provide 175 dumpsters to be emptied
weekly or bi-weekly. Municipal Sales Rep. Ralph Wueller said last month
experience in Alpine had indicated the proper number of dumpsters should be
about 135. Monroe said TDS had agreed to a two-year contract,
renewable for an additional three years. Wueller told the court last month it had based its
pricing on a five-year contract, which was required to amortize its
investment in new equipment. Monroe had countered that the county had no experience
with TDS and a five-year contract was “too long.” Wueller told the court he will start service Oct. 1 but
can start earlier if needed. “It won’t be as smooth [a transition] if we have to
start early but we can,” he said. TDS will provide four dumpsters for Dryden and $6,200
per year is in the contract for that service. County Judge Leo Smith said Dryden has to be included
or trash will be “up and down the highway.” Dryden residents do not pay for trash removal because
that is billed through the water department, which does not serve Dryden. AUSTIN –
The 2006-2007 Edition of “Who’s Who Among American High School Students,”
published and distributed this month, includes Sanderson High School Senior
Davis B. Stumberg. The
nomination was based on his academic achievement and his endorsement by the
Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership organization, which named him as a HOBY
finalist last year. Only the
highest achieving students in high school are considered for this honor and
represent the top five percent of all high school students in the nation. Davis will
be eligible to apply for scholarships totaling over $100,000. He is one
of the candidates for Homecoming king, an announcement coming this week. As
co-captain of the cheerleading squad, drum major of the band, president of the senior class, and
vice president of National Honor Society, Davis is building and developing
leadership skills. He earned
district recognition in his junior year in One Act Play, area and regional
recognition in UIL and track, and advancement state competition for History
Fair. Academically,
Davis received TCISD awards for the highest grade in Algebra II, and all year
A-B Honor Roll. Davis was
inducted into the National Honor Society in April. Off
campus, he was vice president of the Sanderson 4-H Club. He was a
representative to American Legion’s Boy’s State this summer and less than a
week later, he was back in Austin where he attended the UT track
summer camp, concentrating on high jump. He then
attended the Sul Ross Cheer camp in Alpine, where he was the only Sanderson
cheerleader named “All Star American Cheerleader.” Between
his other activities, Davis was head lifeguard at the Terrell County Pool and
also worked with the summer recreation program. The “Who’s
Who” book is distributed to more than 11,000 colleges, high schools,
libraries and youth group organizations, which affords national recognition. “Who’s Who
Among American High School Students” has been recognized for more than 40
years as a reliable herald of future success. MNL September 14, 2007 By BARBARA NOVOVITCH Special to
the News Leader MARATHON – Verdant, tree-shaded Post Park just five
miles southwest of Marathon was such a magnet last year for visitors to the
West Fest and Cabrito Cook-off that the Marathon Chamber of Commerce has
chosen that site again for the annual event, set this year for Friday and Saturday,
Sept. 21 and 22. West Fest activities include the cook-off, with cooking
teams invited to set up after 10 a.m. Friday. The dance, with music by Los
Tejanos of San Angelo, begins at 8 p.m. Friday night. Canoe races, roping contests for the younger set, a
dunking booth run by the Alpine school district and local food, drink and
craft vendors are among the other activities planned. Cooking may begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Goat and
brisket entries must be cooked on an open fire and pits dug into the ground
or pressure cookers are not allowed. Prizes – $600 is the first prize for cabrito and $300
for showmanship – will be announced at 4 p.m. Saturday, per West Fest
rules. Ruben Ortega, Brewster County commissioner from Marathon, said cooking teams and West Fest visitors are
welcome from throughout West Texas and beyond. “Last year, we had cooks fromOdessa and as far away as
Lampasas,” he said. “And we look forward to an even bigger turnout this
year.” Cooking teams may include up to five members and they
must either pre-register and pay the entry fees of $75 for cabrito, $20 for
brisket and $10 for dessert by contacting the Marathon Chamber at
432/386-4516. Or entrants can simply appear with supplies, cooking
equipment and fuel on Friday. ThePost Park area has a rich military and geological
history and both are explained through illustrated placards near the park
entrance. It was first known as Fort Peńa Colorada, or Red Rock. Another name for it is the Rainbow Cliffs and visitors
can see why from the hints of yellow and red in the novaculite outcroppings
atop the surrounding hills. From 1880 to 1893, the fort served as a sub-post of the
larger military headquarters in Fort Davis some 60 miles to the northwest,
which was the home of the renowned Buffalo Soldiers. Both units were charged with protecting early settlers against Indian raids along the Comanche Trail
in the Big Bend and Mexico. The five-acre park was given to Brewster County in 1935
by the grandfather of Texas State Comptroller Susan Combs, who also arranged
for the Works Progress Administration to build a dam across Peńa Creek,
creating the spot where local fishermen cast their lures for large-mouth bass
and perch and West Fest weekend racers will launch their canoes. Combs still owns the adjacent land, where remaining
buildings from the original military fort can be seen in the distance upon
arriving at Post Park. Cook spaces at the park will be assigned Friday on a
first-come, first-serve basis except under the large cottonwood at the south
end of the park. That space was purchased by last year’s winning team,
headed by Marathon resident and Rope-O-Matic owner Lee Roberts. Sponsors of the 2008 West Fest are the Gage Hotel,
Johnson Feed & Western Wear, Permian Distributors (Coors Light &
Miller Lite), Big Bend Telephone Company, Mustang Propane, Rope-O-Matic,
Trans Pecos Bank and Shirley’s Burnt Biscuit. 'Burnt
Biscuit' observes one year MARATHON – Shirley’s Burnt Biscuit, a landmark in town
for many years, changed hands one year ago. Don Boyd and his wife Jacquelin took over the business
in September, 2006, when Shirley Rooney retired. Rooney had the bakery for seven and a half years and
had built up quite a clientele. “I loved it,” she told the News Leader. She would arrive six days a week at 3:30 a.m. and go
till about 2 p.m. Sunday was her day of rest. Rooney still gets orders phoned in to her. She forwards
them to the Boyds and they take care of it. Famous all over the area for fried pies and the like,
the Boyds have kept the same recipes and even expanded the menu somewhat by
adding Colaches and some different types of breads. During the month of September, the Burnt Biscuit will
offer fried pies and other delicacies with a complimentary cup of coffee. This is the Boyd’s way of saying thank you to the
community. “I plan to have many more happy years,” Boyd said when
asked if he were ready to throw in the towel. “Stop in and say hello to us and employee Phoebe
Campbell,” he said. “We’ll be happy to see you.” Now 73 years young, Rooney enjoys sleeping in a little
and watching TV. But she still stops in the shop for a snack now and then. MARATHON – The Brewster County Sheriffs department, in
cooperation with the US Border Patrol, apprehended seven illegal aliens over
a six- day period last week. It began when Deputy Sean Roach of Marathon apprehended
a suspicious individual 20 miles south of Marathon at Spring Creek Ranch. Salvador Rivera Hernandez was arrested with 21 pounds
of marijuana in a duffle bag. Upon questioning the suspect revealed that there were
three more individuals involved. He told Roach he actually had 50 pounds of pot but the
load got too heavy and he unloaded some in the desert. Three days later the three individuals were apprehended
and were indeed hauling 324.5 pounds of marijuana. The three were turned over to the Border Patrol. Sheriff Ronnie Dodson took Hernandez for a ride to
locate the missing weed and six hours later they found it. Three more individuals were apprehended by the Border Patrol, bringing the total to seven illegal
aliens and 365.5 pounds of pot. Dodson said he was pleased with the performance of his
deputies but disappointed in the number of aliens and drugs that still get
through. Hernandez was turned over to the US Drug Enforcement
Agency and the other six have been turned over to the Immigration Customs
Enforcement agency. Marathon
will 'meet' their Mustangs MARATHON – Marathon will get a chance to meet the
Mustangs at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20 at the football field. The event is hosted by the Marathon student council. The athletes from the football team and volleyball
teams will be introduced to the community along with coaching staff. Those who come out and show their support will be treated to watermelon, thanks to the Mustang Booster
Club. Coaches, athletes and students invite everyone to come
out and join the fun and help cheer the Mustangs and lady Mustangs on in
another exciting year of sports. Speaking of volleyball, with the addition of Haley
Williams, the colts will have enough girls for a junior high volleyball team. Haley, a seventh-grade student from Caddo, OK, recently
moved to Marathon where her grandparents, Gary and Lois Horton, already
reside. “I am excited to be here and even more excited to be
playing volleyball since I have never had the opportunity before,” she said Coach Gene Peńa has two games lined up for the girls
against Balmorhea, times and dates to be announced. Five
Mustangs to learn leadership MARATHON – Five Mustangs from Marathon High will attend
the Leadership Institute at The University of Texas Permian Basin in Odessa
on Wednesday, Sept. 19. The group was chosen by counselor Kay Houston. Juniors Marshal Duncan, Celestine Garcia and Memi Lara
will attend along with sophomores Cito Hernandez and Irene Hernandez. They will be accompanied by Margaret Mathews. The group will spend the day attending workshops and
maybe even have a little fun. Mustangs
'45d' at half MARATHON – As if Coach Gene Peńa didn’t have enough to
deal with, the Mustangs took a loss last week in Grandfalls. At halftime, the score board read Cowboys 51, Mustangs
zip. Due to the “45 mercy rule,” the game was over. In six-man football, when one team leads by 45 points or
more any time after one half is played, the game is over. Suiting up last week was Kenny Plane who joined the
team so there would be enough players. Cito Hernandez got a little bunged up and was on the
sidelines. Also sitting out a few games is Damian Portillo. After the loss the Mustangs had to make the drive home
in a paint balled bus. An open date tonight, Sept. 14, will give the Mustangs
a chance to rest up and heal some sores before hosting Valentine next week,
Sept. 21. Bank
feeds Student Council at meetings MARATHON – Trans Pecos Bank will provide the meal for
the monthly Mustang Student Council meetings here. The bank has agreed to
coordinate a monthly meal to promote good leadership in the community. The Student Council has various events throughout the year in which they are involved. Susanna Fuéntez will sponsor the kids again this year. Vocalist
Mason to perform at SRSU ALPINE – Singer Patrick Mason will present a vocal
recital as part of the first Sul Ross State University Evening of the Arts,
Friday, Sept. 21. Mason will perform at 6:30 p.m. in Marshall Auditorium.
There is no admission charge and the public is invited. In addition, the Evening of the Arts includes an art
exhibition opening at 7:30 p.m. in the Main Gallery of the Francois Fine Arts
Building and the play, “The Children’s Hour” by Lillian Hellman, starting at 8:15
p.m. in the Studio Theatre. Mason’s long and successful association with Bridge
Records was crowned in 2006 when his CD of “The Songs of Amy Beach” was
nominated for a Grammy Award. He will present some of Beach’s songs as well as
selections from Broadway and classical selections in other languages and
English. A baritone, Mason has been hailed by critics and
audiences for his performances of a wide range of repertoire spanning the
last 10 centuries. He studied voice at the Peabody Conservatory with
Francesco Valentino and art song with Ellen Mack. His performances and recordings reveal his broad
interest in music of all types and styles. He is also a Berton Coffin Faculty Fellow at the
University ofColorado at Boulder. Alpine's
Peterson on commission AUSTIN – Gilbert E. Peterson of Alpine, an investments
officer at West Texas National Bank, is one of seven people appointed to the
Texas Historical Commission. Gov. Rick Perry announced the appointments last week. The commission works to preserve the state’s
architectural, archeological and cultural landmarks. Peterson is a board member of the Alpine Public Library
and the Davis Mountains Trans-Pecos Heritage Association. He is president of the Board of Leadership Big Bend,
past president of the Rotary Club of Alpine and past treasurer of the Alpine
Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of the Texas and Southwestern
Cattleraisers Association. Peterson received a bachelor’s and master’s degree from
Southern Methodist University. His term expires Jan. 31, 2013. Also appointed were Mario Castillo of San Angelo, John
Crain of Dallas, David A. Gravelle of Dallas, Jon Hansen of El Paso, Lisa
Hembry of Dallas and Dr. Steve Tomka of San Antonio. ‘Change
a Light, Change the World’ ALPINE – The Greater Federal of Women’s Clubs Alpine
chapter has adopted a resolution to “improve the environment, one light bulb
at a time.” President Mary Vongsavath of Alpine said the club at
its meeting last week “unanimously adopted a resolution in support
of the ‘Change a Light, Change the World’ national campaign.” She said the resolution encourages everyone to take the
“Change a Light Pledge” and switch to lighting products that have earned the
government's ENERGY STAR designation. “Everyone can take a simple step by changing an
inefficient light bulb in their home, office, school and business
to an ENERGY STAR qualified light bulb,” Vongsavath said. She said the club distributed “Top 10 Green Tips”
that included several themes, including “Change a Light.” “Switch it up,”
“Catch a Ride,” “Seed a Solution,” “Quit the Drip,” “Talk Back,” “Make
Laundry Cool,” “Make Learning Easier,” “Stay Young” and “Keep it in Check.” The Club calendar for 2007-2008 was distributed and
reports on the Summer months’ club activities were provided. Metha
Sprinkle gave the federation report on the Western District matters. “Everyone enjoyed the salad lunch and documentary films
on Global warming that followed,” Vongsavath said. By CHUCK HALL Culture Artist There are many reasons to consider a
vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Some people choose a vegetarian diet
because they want to minimize cruelty to animals. Others do so to lessen the
environmental impact of growing food animals. Still others enjoy a vegetarian diet
because of the health benefits. The American Dietetic Association and
Dietitians of Canada listed several of these benefits in its position paper
on vegetarian diets. Some of the benefits listed in the report
include lower levels of saturated fat, cholesterol and animal protein and
higher levels of beneficial carbohydrates, fiber, magnesium, boron, folate,
antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids and phytonutrients
(nutrients used by the body to help fight diseases.) These nutritional benefits reveal
themselves in the many ways. Vegetarians have a lower Body Mass Index on
average than non-vegetarians. An analysis of over 76,000 subjects showed that death
from heart disease was 31 percent lower among vegetarian men than
non-vegetarian men and 20 percent lower among vegetarian women than
non-vegetarian women. Even when comparing obese vegetarians to thin non-vegetarians,
the vegetarians had much lower cholesterol. Several studies have demonstrated that vegetarians
routinely have lower blood pressure than non-vegetarians. They also have much lower incidence of hypertension
than non-vegetarians. Rates of self-reported diabetes among vegetarians were
less than half the rate of the general population. Non-vegetarians have a 54 percent increased risk for
prostate cancer and an 88 percent increased risk for colorectal cancer. A study in the United States revealed that those who
ate meat were twice as likely to develop dementia as those who did not. Non-vegetarians are more than twice as likely as
non-vegetarians to develop gallstones. Rheumatoid Arthritis is believed to be an autoimmune
disease involving inflammation of the joints. A vegetarian diet may
contribute successfully to treatment of RA, according to a study conducted in
Finland. Until researching the many health benefits of a
vegetarian diet, I was a meat-eater. But the more evidence I accumulated from various
studies on the subject, the more I lost my carnivorous appetite. If you want to reap the benefits yourself, you don’t
have to go “cold turkey.” You can gradually decrease your meat intake. Even a
partial reduction will gain some health benefits, so pass the salad. Chuck Hall is a Sustainability Consultant and author.
His latest book, “Green Circles: A Sustainable Journey from the Cradle to the
Grave,” is now available at the Culture Artist Web site at www.cultureartist.org.
You may contact Chuck by email at chuck@cultureartist.org. Schools set tax rate SANDERSON – The Terrell County School Board Monday
night officially adopted the tax rate for next year at $1.1615 per $100
valuation, down from $1.342 in the current year. In adopting the new rate, the board noted the $1.0215
rate for “maintenance and operations” would provide a decrease in that budget
of 2.72 percent from the current year. The “M&O” rate was reduced because of requirements
under House Bill One, approved last year by the Texas Legislature. It required a 33 percent reduction in the rate each of
two years. Also included in the new Terrell County ISD budget is
14 cents to pay debt service on a $14 million bond issue approved by the voters in May. School Business Manager Blain Chriesman said a balance
of about $400,000 remains from an earlier bond issue. The board sold $9.5 million of the new bonds last month
and the first project out of the box will be new tennis courts behind the
current high school building. In other action, the board agreed to let the Terrell
County Recreation Department use a school bus to take elementary-school-age
children to Fort Stockton on Saturdays this fall to participate in the
program there. Tammy Truesdell and Julie Flax told the board the
recreation program would provide pay for a driver and fuel for the bus. Truesdell said 15 children had signed up for tackle football and seven for volleyball. Flax is the volleyball coach for the team. And the board agreed to a committee of Board President
Ada Lee Robbins, Secretary Johnnie Couch and Cheryl Seidel to come up with a
new “superintendent evaluation instrument.” Robbins said the Texas Association of School Board has
come up with a procedure better than what the district has been using for
evaluating the performance of the superintendent, one of the responsibilities
of the board. Several members said the current method of evaluating
the superintendent needed correction. SANDERSON – Some old wood being piled up for the
Sanderson Homecoming bonfire next week has been returned after several people
apparently helped themselves last week. Sheriff Clint McDonald said he spoke to some people who
said they took some of the wood and they agreed to return it. He said some felt they had a right to the wood since it
was stacked on county property at the County Road and Bridge yard. One told McDonald a Road and Bridge employee had said
he could take the wood. “That’s not something they have to give,” McDonald
said. “It doesn’t belong to the employee and it doesn’t belong to those who
took it.” McDonald said he could file criminal trespass and theft
charges against those who took the wood but he preferred to just get the
property returned. “For one thing, it’s trespassing on county property and
it’s theft,” he said. “The amount of the theft is determined by replacement
value, not the value of the old wood. “But we don’t want to go that way,” he said. “People
just need to return what they took.” McDonald said US Border Patrol Supervisor Billy Black
donated some new wood used for concrete forms on the home he is building at
Hackberry and School Street. “But that doesn’t mean that wood is available for
anyone who wants it,” McDonald said. Others have also donated wood. The senior class is responsible for collecting wood and
other flammable debris for the bonfire on Legion Street, to be lit Thursday
night, Sept. 27, as part of the annual Homecoming activities. The Homecoming celebration honors former Sanderson High
School graduates. It will surround the football game on Friday, Sept. 28,
between the Sanderson Eagles and the visiting Grandfalls-Royalty Cowboys at
Eagle Stadium. Homecoming queens and kings from the past 60 years will
be honored with several returning for the event. Special guest of honor will be Jessie Mae McClellan,
homecoming queen in 1957. Eagles
0-3 for the year By KIM RAPP News Leader Production Manager FORT DAVIS – The Sanderson High School Eagle football
squad suffered its third loss in as many games this season last week and the
second by the dreaded “45 mercy rule.” The Fort Davis Indians, who always give the Eagles a
hard time, sent the kids in orange and black home second best in a 59-14
score. The Indians struck early with the game only 17 minutes
old when Jeffrey Alvarado threw a 59-yard strike to Adrian Hernandez for six.
Michael Cauble kicked the extra point and it was 8-0 before some fans had
found their seats. The Eagles didn’t have much luck and turned the ball
over on downs only to have Hernandez run into the end zone for six more.
Cauble’s toe split the uprights again and with 5:45 left in the first
quarter, the scoreboard read Indians 16, Eagles zip. Failing to create a first down, the Eagles would then
punt the pigskin back to the Indians. Hernandez would score again bringing the tally to 24-0. In the second quarter, the Eagles finally found some
momentum and moved down the field. Phillip Lascano found the end zone with a five-yard
run, putting Sanderson on the board with 5:24 left in the half. Ben Rubio’s
point-after kick was blocked and it was 24-6. Two minutes later Caylor Corley scored six of his own
for the Indians making it 32-6. Raul Salazar
started moving the ball downfield and QB Ben Rubio found Bubba Ramirez and
Darren Siedel with passes. With 1:34 left in the half, Raul made his way to the
end zone for six more. Ben turned around and booted the PAT and it was 32-16
in favor of the host team. The Indians scored again as the clock ran out, taking a
39-14 lead into the locker room at half time. Ryan Rosas ran the kickoff back to the 32-yard line to
open the third stanza. Raul Salazar and Phillip Lascano moved the ball a few
more yards but the Eagles came up short and the Indians scored again with
8:13 left to play in the third. The score was now 47-14 in favor of Fort
Davis. The Eagles again were forced to punt and Marcus
Hartnett went in for six upping the tally to 53-14. Lascano ran for 20 yards and Raul and Ryan added a
couple of yards more but the Eagles fell short at the 10-yard line Adrian Hernandez scored again, ending the game with the
45-point mercy rule. Final score was 59-14 with 2:10 left on the
third-quarter clock. Ben Rubio was four for five in the passing game for a
total of 43 yards in the losing effort. Raul Salazar carried the ball 13 times for a total 60
yards. Phillip Lascano had five carries for 32 yards and Ryan Rosas had a
total of 17 on four carries added to his credit. Isaac Ramirez caught a pass for 20 yards. Darren Seidel
added 15 yards on two passes to his total and Jacob Benavidez caught one pass
for eight yards. While the Indians were tough, the Eagles face perhaps a
tougher competitor tonight when they host the Rankin Red Devils at 7:30
tonight in “The Pit.” Quarterback Ben Rubio was philosophical about the
contest against the sixth ranked team in Six Man Football. Fort Davis is rated 14 while Sanderson is down the
slate at 38th. “It’s going to be tough,” Rubio said. “But I have faith
in my teammates.” A new flag team has been added to the Eagle spirit
squad this year. Jenny Hernandez, Jessica Garza, Julianna Larrinaga and
Sarah Sivils tote new flags, sponsored by Sanderson State Bank, Pecos County
State Bank and Circle B Storage. To help keep Beaker, aka Alexa Davis, cool this year
during the warmer games, the cheerleaders have purchased a vest with pockets
in which she can insert ice packs. “The collar is mandatory for mascots during warmer weather,”
Cheerleader sponsor Dora Benavidez told theNews Leader. “The vest was
purchased to cut down on Beaker molting.” helicopter crash FORT STOCKTON – The two occupants of a small, two-place
helicopter crashed last week while searching for predators northwest of here. Pecos County Sheriff Cliff Harris said pilot Terry
Honaker of Smith Helicopters of Pecos and rancher Lane Porter of Fort
Stockton were injured when the Robinson 22 aircraft experienced “some kind of
engine failure. “He had just landed and refueled and they were going
back up,” Harris said. “They were headed east, they went over a power line
and something popped. They lost all power.” Helicopters can be landed safely after a power loss
through a procedure known as “auto-rotation” but Harris said the aircraft was
too low and Honaker “didn’t have time.” He said the aircraft had just cleared a power line,
which is about 50 to 60 feet above the ground. The accident happened northwest of Fort Stockton and
east of Ranch Road 1776 east of its intersection with US Highway 285. Honaker was recovering at home this week. He was
airlifted to Odessa Medical Center by Care Star Helicopter after the accident. Porter was treated for a broken rib and bruises at
Pecos County Memorial Hospital. Pecos and Terrell County have agreed to hire Honaker
and Steve Forest of Dryden to fly ranchers on predator control. The contractors will provide 20 to 22 hours a month for
predator control and have a helicopter available for three to five hours per
month for search and rescue if needed. Hours not used for SAR could be rolled back into
predator control, under the program. SANDERSON – Terrell County will celebrate its
designation as the “Cactus Capital of Texas” with its 10th annual Prickly
Pear Pachanga, Saturday, Oct. 6. This year’s celebration will include the Prickly Pear
Pachanga Dinner and Silent Auction and the traditional cactus contests. The Dinner and Silent Auction will be at St. James Hall
beginning at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and wine. Dinner will be served about
8 p.m. Instead of the usual buffet or served seated dinner,
the meal will be at “serving kiosks” scattered throughout the hall. Party tables set for six will provide guests with the
formality of a seated dinner but will encourage mingling with friends and
neighbors. This year’s dinner format will also give guests more
time to view the array of items in the silent auction, donated by local and
out-of-town businesses and friends. Door Prizes will also add to the
evening’s fun. In order to help with planning for the event, advance
tickets are being sold. Dinner tickets are $20 per person and some are still
available. Cactus enthusiasts are invited to participate in the
annual cactus contests. They include the Cactus Specimen Contest, Cactus Photo
Contest, Container Cactus Garden Contest and the Cactus Cooking Contest. Contest entries will be accepted from 9 to 11 a.m. at
St. James Hall that day. Contest rules and other specifics will be announced
next week. For more information about dinner tickets, donation of
Silent Auction items or contest participation, please call Henry Beth Hogg,
Cindy Kelso or Christine Hinkle. Eagles
‘mentor’ young students By KIM RAPP News Leader Production Manager SANDERSON – Athletic Director and Coach Mark Dominguez
and his staff are teaching our boys more than how to get a first down. Sanderson High School football players and the mascot
“Beaker” are going to the Elementary school on Fridays to spend time with and
mentor the younger generation. They read to them, help with school work and whatever
the teacher needs. “Coach D” and the coaching staff are trying to teach
his players that the younger ones do look up to them. He also wants to show the younger ones that others in
the community care about them. Third grade teacher Rosella Bilano thinks the older
kids coming is a “wonderful idea. “The younger ones can see that it takes responsibility
and dedication to become a football player,” she said. It is a community service, Dominguez said. “If it goes well, there may be other opportunities to
serve,” he said. “We’ll see.” The News Leader
accompanied the players to the school last week and saw first hand the
players reading to the kids, showing flashcards and playing games. The kids loved it, older ones included. “It really
opened my eyes and reminded me that these kids do look up to us,” senior Ben
Rubio said. “It will effect how I present myself, in front of children
anyway.” He said several of his teammates feel the same way. Homecoming
next week SANDERSON – Next week is Homecoming as Terrell County
schools honor royalty of the past 60 years. Thursday night will be the annual parade and bonfire,
rescued somewhat when people who had helped themselves returned wood they had taken. Friday the pep rally is at 2:45, the barbecue by the
junior class to follow and the Sanderson Eagle football game with
Grandfalls-Royalty at the “Pit.” Before the 7:30 p.m. kick-off, royalty from the past will be
honored and the 2007 queen and king will be crowned, chosen from among Hannah
Black, Rosa Gonzalez, Danell Graham and Irma Nuńez for queen and Leo Busch,
Ben Rubio, Raul Salazar and Davis Stumberg for king. SANDERSON – A course in hunter education has been
scheduled for next month. Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden Dan Waddell said
the meeting will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27, in the Sanderson
Community Building. He said those who want to start off with coffee and
doughnuts can arrive at 7 a.m. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, those born on or
after Sept. 2, 1971, and are 17 and over, must complete a hunter education
course to hunt in Texas. Those aged 12 through 16 must complete a hunter
education course and be accompanied by a person 17 or older licensed to hunt
in Texas. Those under 12 years of age must be accompanied by
someone 17 or older licensed to hunt in the state. Hunters must successfully complete a hunter education course to hunt in Texas. But Waddell said any individual may take the course on
a voluntary basis and is encouraged to attend regardless of requirements. The course will include instruction in modem firearms
and primitive sporting arms handling and safety, outdoor responsibility and
ethics, laws and regulations, wildlife conservation and management, hunting
traditions, field care of game and wilderness first aid and survival. The minimum age for certification is 12 years. Students
12 or older successfully completing the course will be issued a “Temporary
Student Card” at the end of the course. Students will then receive an original “Hunter
Education Certificate” from Texas Parks and Wildlife after
processing the paperwork. Those less than 12 years of age will receive a
“Certificate of Attendance” but must take the course again after turning 12
for proper certification. The course cost is $15. Since 1972, more than 575,000 Texans have completed the
hunter education course, which is mandatory in 50 states, 10 Canadian
provinces and Mexico. For more information or to register for the course,
contact Waddell at 432/940-1645 or Texas Parks and Wildlife at 800/792-1112
or 512/389-4999. Or visit the official website for Texas Parks and
Wildlife at www.tpwd.state.tx.us.
SANDERSON – A benefit barbecue luncheon and donations have brought in more
than $3,500 to help Veronica Ybarra with medical bills. Ybarra was operated on last week for breast cancer and
had a scheduled treatment at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston this week. The barbecue at the Pavilion at Bicentennial Park
Sunday raised $3,128 to help with medical bills and all the proceeds from a
raffle have not yet come in. Organizer Yolie Connelly said the Houston visit was to
“make sure they got everything.” Still to be raffled are a half-carat diamond bracelet
from Zales Jewelry, donated by Richard Lopez, and a leather folding chair
donated by Sanderson State Bank. Connelly said raffle tickets are available by calling 432/345-2935. If there is no answer, orders can be left
on the answering machine. The raffle will be within the next two week, perhaps
next week during Homecoming activities at Eagle Stadium, Connelly said. In the meantime, she said, an account has been set up
for Ybarra at Sanderson State Bank. The total amount collected was at $3,500 and climbing
at press time. Meanwhile, a group of breast cancer
survivors in the Big Bend area plans a public meeting in Alpine next month to
discuss the possibility of a mobile mammogram unit to serve Big Bend. “Breast cancer survivors, friends and
family members of those with breast cancer, health care providers,
elected officials, and any other interested parties” are invited to the
meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 1, at the Kokernot Lodge in Alpine, organizer
Adrienne Evans said. “The meeting’s purpose is to create an
informal coalition to share information about this project, receive input and
build a consensus,” she said. “Please bring your ideas, perspective and
expertise to be heard at the meeting.” For more information, contact Evans at
432/371-2725. Or send an e-mail to her at superluckygirl13@yahoo.com. BALMORHEA – All four of the girls and three boys placed
in the top ten at a cross-country meet here last week. There were a total of 17 high school girls, 17 high school
boys and 13 junior high boys in the race. Noemi Nuńez placed third Jessica Garza was fourth,
Juliana Castro came in sixth place and in seventh place was Miriam Nuńez. A pair of Roberts brothers came in second. Travis Roberts was second in the high school meet with a time
of 20 minutes even in the five-kilometer race. Younger brother Taylor Roberts finished second with a
time of 13:52 in the 3-K contest. With his best finish so far, Jimmy Rapp finished in
22:36, placing sixth. In fourteenth place was Kelly Lomas and newcomer
Cordell Lawson clocked in at 26:03, placing him one behind Kelly at
fifteenth. Coming in fourth place in junior high was Shawn
Stegall, clocking in at 15:23. Ryan Arthur placed seventh with a time of 16:31 and in
thirteenth place was Ryan Johnson, running the race in 23:05. The next cross-country meet will be in Wink tomorrow,
Sept. 22. Cactus
Chat By KIM RAPP News Leader Production Manager SANDERSON – Pascuala
Livingston had lots of company
last weekend, including son Bobby
&Tracey Navarez of Sheffield. Tracey is the sister of Lyn
Rosas of Sanderson. Making the trip from Imperial was Becky & Larry Chavarria. Becky isPascuala’s niece and said she really
enjoys reading the News Leader
on-line. You can too, by dialing up www.tcnewsleader.com. Also here was Delores
& Paul Lopez. Delores is
also Livingston’s niece. They hail from Fort Stockton where he works for the
Department of Criminal Justice and she is a housewife. Joining them was 20-year-old son Trey. The sisters came to visit the grave of their mother, Zulema
Alvarez, on her birthday and to celebrate Bobby’s birthday. Also coming from Fort Stockton was Livingston’s daughter Terry
& Tom Cash. Tom is a
homebuilder while Terry has been a
school bus driver for 24 years now. Livingston made Bobby’s favorite, enchiladas, and
cake was served, of course. After all, what’s a party without cake? By ELIZA ODGERS 4-H Reporter SANDERSON – Hey, 4-Hers, I’ll be your new 4-H reporter
and I’ve got a report for you. Last Saturday Doodle, Stephanie and Johnny Odgers, Mark
Carroll and his family and I went to a rabbit show in Odessa. I showed two rabbits. Luke and Lauryn Carroll sure did
have “Fuzzy Fever” at the show. Activities for Monday are the Clover Kids, woodwork and
sewing from 4:30 to 6:30. Where has the year gone? Start working on your Fair projects and start getting your animals ready
because it’s coming sooner than we expect. Tomorrow is the fishout so make sure you pack your
fishing poles. Meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow at the courthouse. And don’t forget the Mexican luncheon Sunday noon,
Sept. 30, at the Community Building. SANDERSON – The first livestock project meeting for the
Sanderson 4-H will be at 4 p.m. next Saturday, Sept. 29 at the Terrell County
Fair Hall. Project leader Bobby Stegall will be available to
answer questions for youth interested in showing this year. He will also have contact information available on where
to locate livestock projects for the upcoming show season. Stock show dates include the Terrell County Fair
January 24 to 26, the Odessa Sandhills Stock Show January 4 to 12, Fort Worth
Livestock Show January 11 to February 3, San Antonio Livestock Show January 31 to
February 17, San Angelo Livestock Show February 21 to March 2 and Houston
Livestock Show March 3 to 22. 4-H
plans fishing at the Oasis SANDERSON – The Sanderson 4-H Club will have a day of
fishing and relaxation at the Oasis Ranch tomorrow, Sept. 22. Lunch will be
provided. “We must have a current enrollment form and medical
treatment for everyone attending,” Extension Agent Mark Carroll said. “We
leave from the courthouse parking lot at 9 a.m. and will return at 5
p.m.” Contact Carroll at 432/345-2291 for more information or
to enroll. The Club also will host a Mexican food luncheon at 12
p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Community Building. The meal will include tacos, chicken enchiladas, beans, rice, drinks and dessert. Each meal will be $6 per person and to-go plates will
be available. Proceeds from the lunch will benefit 4-H projects
throughout the year. ‘Boots
to Baubles’ online auction SONORA – “Boots to Baubles,” an online auction to be presented by the Texas Pecos
Trail Region, has been planned to raise funds for TPTR preservation and
heritage tourism projects. “This is a fun and lively way to put fancy boots on
your feet and baubles on your fingers – all while helping to raise funds,”
TPTR Regional Coordinator Keith Godwin said. Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 10, gifts will be available
for bid including hunting trips, western wear certificates, business
services, adventure tours “and more than a few baubles to catch your fancy,”
she said. “You can view the sample catalog of items and start
your wish list, on the website now,” Godwin said. “Visit www.texaspecostrail.com and follow the ‘Boots to Baubles’ links on the home
page.” Bidding will last four weeks, ending before
Thanksgiving, providing a chance to win items for holiday gift giving. The Texas Pecos Trail Region is a non-profit affiliate
of the award-winning Texas Heritage Trails Program that works with
communities and organizations around the state to improve economic growth
through the preservation and promotion of historic, cultural and
environmental heritage. The Pecos Trail Region covers 22 counties in the
central-southwestern region of Texas including Terrell. The THT programs have helped increase attendance to heritage sites by more than 16 percent
over a five year marketing period and the investment of each dollar spent on
heritage tourism returns more than $24 back into those same communities,
Godwin said. She said the auction is “a great way to draw attention
to your community and to garner press for your donated business or service –
with the hundreds of visitors that hit our website each week.” For more information on the “Boots to Baubles” auction, on donating an item to the Texas
Pecos Trail Region programs or for traveling the Pecos Trail Region, contact
the office at 325/387-2927 or visit the website. MNL September 21, 2007 West
Fest starts today MARATHON – The winners of Marathon’s West Fest and
Cabrito Cook-off today and tomorrow, Sept. 21 and 22, will receive money
prizes and an unusual steel goat’s head trophy welded onto a horseshoe. The West Fest will be at the Post Park five miles
southwest of Marathon beginning today when cooking teams arrive to claim
their spots. Canoe races along Peńa Creek, roping contests for the
youngsters, a dunking booth run by the Alpine school district and local food,
drink and craft vendors will also gather at the tree-shaded county
park. The Friday night dance, which begins at 8 p.m., will
feature the Los Tejanos of San Angelo. Brewster County Commissioner Ruben Ortega of Marathon
said cooking teams and West Fest visitors are welcome from throughout West
Texas and beyond. He said cooking teams should pre-register with the
Chamber of Commerce by calling 432/386-4516 or just come to the Post Park
today. Entry fees are $75 for cabrito, $20 for brisket and $10
for dessert. All entrants should bring their own supplies, cooking equipment
and fuel, he said. The cooking teams may begin their preparations at 8
a.m. tomorrow and all entries for cabrito, brisket and dessert must be
prepared at the park, according to the West Fest rules, which also specify
that goat and brisket entries are to be cooked on an open fire with
no pits dug in the ground or pressure cookers allowed. The cooking team judged the best in cabrito will win
$600. The prize money for brisket and dessert depends upon
the number of entries, according to the Chamber’s West Fest committee. Top prize for showmanship will receive $300. Winners
will be announced at 4 p.m. tomorrow. The top three winners in each cooking category and the
showmanship winner will receive goat’s head trophies, created by a
Marathon artist who asked not to be identified. MARATHON – The social calendar here is pretty full for
the next few weeks with the annual West Fest Cabrito Cook-off this weekend,
the Third Annual Roadrunner Open Road Race for cars Oct. 6 and the M2M
26-mile foot race the following week. Road Race Coordinator Kenda Furman said 68 drivers had
signed up as of press time this week “and we’ve still got lots of calls to
return.” She said race sponsors are hoping to see 100 entrants
in the race but as many as 150 could be accommodated. “We are well under way,” she said. “Marathon is getting
excited about the welcome party.” She said motel and hotel rooms are quickly being booked
for the weekend. Top sponsors this year are Trans Pecos Banks, Sand
Ridge Energy and Coors Lite/Miller Lite. The race is a spin-off from the popular Big Bend Open
Road Race between Fort Stockton and Sanderson. It is very similar except the race is on US Highway 385
between Fort Stockton and Marathon. The course is 40 miles each way from south of Fort Stockton to north
of Marathon. Except for the Unlimited Class, drivers compete on how
close they can come to the speed for their class. There are classes for
speeds from 85 miles per hour to 160 mph. Speeds in the unlimited class can exceed 200 mph in
places. The race week begins on Wednesday, Oct. 3, and Thursday,
Oct. 4, with registration, technical inspections and driver schools at the
Ritchey Building and practice runs along US 385 north of Marathon. The welcome party will be at the Marathon Motel at 5
p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, sponsored by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce and the
Volunteer Fire Department. On Friday, Oct. 5, activities move to Fort Stockton
with more registration and technical inspections in the morning and more
driver classes in the afternoon. There is a car show at Zero Stone Park from 4 to 5:30
p.m. where spectators can see the cars up close and personal. A parade along Dickenson Street in Fort Stockton at
5:30 p.m. Friday wraps up the pre-race public events. The main event starts Saturday, Oct. 6, with racers
meeting at Rooney Park. After a “sweep” of the course, the first racers will
start south of Fort Stockton. They will gather around the school office and athletic
field on Ave. D in Marathon and start back for the final leg after a lunch
break. After the finish in Fort Stockton, there will be an
after race party at Rooney Park and the awards banquet starting at 7:30 p.m.
in the Pecos County Civic Center. Furman said the best way to see the race is to
volunteer as a “gate guard” along the course. The guards are stationed at entrances to the highway to
assure no one strays into the path of a speeding racecar. For
more information, contact Furman at 432/336-8525, extension 16, or visit the
website at www.rrorr.net. Rodriguez
in town for park study WASHINGTON, DC – US Rep. Ciro D. Rodriguez will be in
Marathon tomorrow on a tour of national parks from San Antonio to West Texas with
Rep. Nick J. Rahall, II, chairman of House Committee on natural Resources. Rodriguez and Rahall will be at the Gage Hotel at 6:30
p.m. tomorrow, Sept. 22, to learn about Big Bend as part of the tour. They also will visit the San Antonio Missions, Amistad
Recreational Area and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic river and meet with representatives from all
parks including the Guadalupe Mojntains National Park and the Fort Davis
national Site. “I think Chairman Rahall for accepting my invitation to
visit the diverse and historic parks of the 23rd District of
Texas,” Rodriquez said. “Parks along
the US-Mexico border operate with unique challenges that require special
resources to preserve the natural landscapes while securing an international
border and in San Antonio community groups have played a vital role in contributing to the historic preservation of our San
Antonio Missions. “As we tour the national parks and historic sites in my
district, Chairman Rahall will be able to see first-hand how important these
destinations are to our local economy and how important it is to conserve the
natural resources for generations to come.” MARATHON – The long-awaited garden here is finally a
reality. Last week, elementary students broke ground and planted
turnips, lettuce and mustard greens. The garden, in the southern corner of the schoolyard,
was inspired by Danielle Gallo of Marathon. “Marathon Elementary gives special thanks to Patrick Picasso for hauling in dirt and compost, Clyde
Curry and Eve’s Garden for supplying the compost, Chuck Ries for the dirt and
Neil Chavigny for use of the equipment,” Elementary teacher Andrea Johnson
said. “Also, a special thank you to veteran gardener Laverne Avery for her
expert advice. “A scarecrow watches over the garden and will hopefully keep the grasshoppers away,” she said. The students will tend the garden, learning how things
grow while learning responsibilities, teamwork and how to care for a garden. MARATHON - The “Librarian Idol” contest is over and,
while she received more than 1,000 votes, Marathon’s Carol Townsend did not
win. The winner was Janis Benefield of Stratford High School
north of Amarillo. The Friends of the Marathon Library also announced this
week they will raffle off a quilt made by Townsend. Tickets are $5 each or three tickets for $12. The quilt
is on display at the library and will be raffled off on July 4, 2008. In Alpine, The Friends of the Alpine Library will have
a book sale called the “Super Brown Bag Book Sale.” The cost is $5 for a brown bag and “you can fill ‘er
up,” Asa Stone of the library said. “One book or 20, we don’t care.” All proceeds go to benefit the Alpine Public Library.
The sale is to make room for new books. Yoga
class to build toward sun salutation' MARATHON – Marci Roberts will host a Yoga gathering at
the Evans Gallery at 10 a.m. tomorrow, Sept. 22. The plan is to start slow and build to a full “sun
salutation” with a total of 108 salutations, which are basically stretching
exercises. In the Yoga practice, 108 is a commonly used number.
There are different theories of where it came from, said Roberts. Roberts has exposed the Lady Mustangs volleyball team
to Yoga and is working with them. She said professional athletes and students alike use
Yoga to build their flexibility and strength. The gathering tomorrow will be done to music. “You don’t have
to know a thing about Yoga to enjoy this gathering,” Roberts said. Afterwards, tea and snacks will be available. Roberts said thousands of people will be doing this
around the world on this day, which is the National Day of Peace. It also falls on Yom Kippur this year, the Jewish day
of atonement. It will be observed in this way from London to Los Angeles
to Hong Kong. The day is timed with the Autumnal Equinox, which is
the time there are equal hours of day and night. It technically happens at 4:51 a.m. Sunday morning
Central Time. The event is called the Global Mala Project and is a
fundraiser to raise awareness about Yoga and to raise funds for organizations
such as AIDS prevention and global warming, though contributions can go to
any charity. Some celebrities
involved are Ziggy Marley, Jennifer Aniston and Sting just to name a few. For more information on the Global Mala Project or to
make a donation, check out the web site at www.globalmala.org. MVFD
sets fundraiser at cook-off MARATHON – The Marathon Volunteer Fire department will
raise funds again this year at West Fest, starting today at the Post Park. Proceeds this year will go towards buying a new fire
truck. Fire Chief Daniel Eaton said the current truck has many
years of military use and has been serving Marathon for many years. “After spending much money and time on repairs and
still not having a dependable truck, the MVFD has decided to seek the
purchase of a new truck that will meet our needs well into the future,” he
said. The J.P. and Mary Jon Foundation started off the
fundraising kitty by donating $12,000 but there is still much to be raised,
Eaton said. The MVFD will sell t-shirts, coffee and breakfast items at the entrance of West Fest. It will also sell
chances to win a large artist proof photograph of Mariscal Canyon at Cross
Canyon. The prize will be awarded at the Marathon 2 Marathon
foot race October 13. Winners need not be present to win, Eaton said. At West Fest The MVFD will also work parking, at the
request of the Chamber of Commerce, in addition to transportation to and from
the park from Post Road. Marathon
artist featured in Marfa
art show MARFA – Maisie Lee of Marathon will be one of the
featured artists at an art show here next month. Her work is known throughout Marathon and includes the
doors of the Catholic and Methodist churches. She is currently employed at Chisos Gallery where her
work is also displayed. Her work consists of wood and clay sculptures, pastel
and oil paintings and wood carvings. She said she is “thrilled” to have been invited to
participate in the show. “It was a surprise and is quite an honor,” she told the
News Leader. “Uncrossed Borders - A Journey into the West Texas
Culture Clash” is the name of the show, which will be at Carmen’s Cafe at 317
E. San Antonio St. here October 5, 6 and 7. Show promoters said it will be a presentation of the
art and culture of West Texas. Work will be shown from the private collections of the
area including Pepper Brown, Lucille Logan, Georgia Waller, Ran “Van Gogh in
Van Horn” Horn, Bryant “Eduardo” Holman and more. There will be a special showing of the children’s mural
from the old gym in Alpine along with the Painted Ponies from the Presidio
High School art students. Artist from Chihuahua will also show their work. A special feature will be the Bake Turner International
Film Festival with Turner playing for the opening reception from 4 to 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 5, with a performance by a live band later in the evening. The show is being funded by $10 donations from
individuals. To donate or for more information call Beverly at
432/837-3768 or flag down “The Limo,” a vintage Chrysler “stretch”
limousine seen around town. MARATHON – Employees of Marathon Construction were seen
Tuesday morning getting a start on the final roof work for the Marathon
Methodist Church. The work included some rake trim that had been left off
the original metal roof and applying a sheet metal roof to the front porch of
the church, which had been asphalt shingles before. Workers will also install metal flashing over the small
room on the back of the church to protect it from further water damage. Church members then plan on installing bead board
paneling on the ceiling of the front porch, reworking the cedar posts on the porch,
painting the window and door trim around the church and continuing to cover
and paint the sides of the church where prior foundation repairs have been
completed. A landscape plan was drawn up and donated by a local
landscape artist. Work should begin on implementing that plan as the
other repairs are wrapping up. “This little church in Marathon is just one example of how a few inspired and excited community members can
make a big difference,” church member Tom Crase said. “If you drive around
town, you can see evidence of such activity at several existing, as well as
new homes.” In addition, the recent free trash pickup, provided by
the county, “made a great difference in the appearance of the town,” Crase
said. “The community really got behind that effort as numerous truck and
trailer loads of trash was hauled out of town.” MARATHON – Victoria Zimmerman has been elected
president of the Marathon Student Council this year. Vice president will be freshman Colten Johnson, Omar Grano will serve as secretary and Krystal Aguilar
will keep an eye on the funds as treasurer. Susanna Fuéntez and Gracie Galindo will again sponsor
the council this year. The student council consists of grades five to 12. This year, “24 members signed up and are ready to
work,” Fuéntez said. Convention Center plans take
shape SANDERSON – Banquet seating for up to 500 guests, a
smaller meeting room, a separate senior citizen center, visitor center and
full-meal kitchen were among the features identified as desirable in a new
Terrell County Convention Center. County Commissioners conducted a “workshop” on plans
for the facility Monday. The large banquet room would be divisible into smaller
rooms by partitions and the facility would have a southwest theme. Architect Monty Hunter of Hunter Corral Associates of
Odessa said he could take those criteria and begin to develop plans for a
convention/visitor center on a lot at Oak and Second, which the county has
acquired for that purpose. Plans for a convention center grew out of an opinion by
Texas Attorney General Gregg Abbott in February, 2004. Terrell County voters in 2000 approved a “venue tax” as
part of the state sales tax to finance economic development and questions
arose about what the money could be used for. Abbott said the county should use the money for items
included in the election but could do so “only” in connection with a
“convention center.” The county has asked for another AG opinion as to
whether the county can borrow money against future venue tax receipts or
whether it can only use what is in the bank. County Judge Leo Smith said the county should plan for
all of its convention center needs now. If it needs to scale back, it can do
so later. “This is going to be the biggest thing Terrell County
has ever done,” he said earlier this month. He said Monday the center could do for Sanderson “what
the Gage Hotel did for Marathon. Shops will spring up around it like they
have in Marathon. “We are not going to start small and add to it,” Smith
said. “This is a one-shot deal. We don’t want to overkill it but seating
should be for at least 400 to 500 people.” He said he wants to “get the ball rolling” and, if the
county cannot borrow against future tax receipts, there may be grants or
other financing available. Smith said the Terrell County Hunter’s Feast with more
than 300 diners is the biggest event now in the county but having adequate
seating could attract other events. He said officials at the Big Bend Open Road Race, held
each April, have already told him they could have the annual awards banquet
in Sanderson every other year if it had the facilities. The Permian Basin Planning Commission and other
regional agencies could meet periodically in Sanderson if it could
accommodate them. Commissioners generally agreed not to include a “youth
center” in the plans, mostly because there was a doubt it would get used. County Treasurer Lynda Helmers suggested instead that
the big room in the center be used for movies maybe once a month or so. An office for the Terrell County Recreation Department
should be included, commissioners agreed. Smith said he would like to use the present “ChemWaste” building, more commonly known as the
“Little Green House” on the property in the plans. If the building cannot be salvaged, he said, perhaps at
least the slab could be used. The kitchen should be accessible both to a senior
citizen center in the ChemWaste building and to the main meeting room. The senior citizen lunch currently provided by Pecos
County Community Action Agency could be taken over and operated every day by
the county if the proper facilities existed. Smith said he envisions “shadow boxes” throughout the
facility with displays of the culture and history of the region. AdventGX President Jose Quintana said the center, if
done right, could attract “traveling exhibits” from museums throughout the
region. The entry could be through a garden of native plants
and Smith would like to see a rock garden or other display. Parking was an issue but Hunter said having a lot of
cars parked on the main street of town could be a draw in itself. “A vibrant, busy street can be an advantage,” he said.
“Having to walk past stores on Main Street to get to your facility could be a
big help.” Some parking could be accommodated in the space now
occupied by a small home at Second and Downie. Commissioners agreed to call for bids for someone to
remove the house and that land could be used for off-street parking. SAN ANGELO – A spokesman for Town & Country Stores
here Wednesday confirmed a report on the company’s website that Susser
Holdings Corp. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the parent
company of the San Angelo-based stores in an all-cash transaction valued at
approximately $361 million, subject to certain closing adjustments and before
transaction costs and expenses. Town & Country is a privately owned company and a
leading convenience store operator in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico with
140 locations serving Central and West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, and 28
locations serving Eastern New Mexico. It includes a large store and truck stop on the west
edge of Sanderson. Town & Country had total reported sales of $842
million and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of
$50 million during the 12 months ended Aug. 4. Town & Country owns approximately 80 percent of its
stores, along with a land bank of 14 undeveloped locations for future
development. Susser expects to finance the transaction through a
combination of committed debt financing, lease financing and excess cash. The transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings
per share in 2008. The transaction is anticipated to be completed in 60 to
90 days and is subject to federal antitrust review, required consents and
other regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The spokesman said she did not know if the new
ownership would involve any changes. Corpus Christi-based Susser Holdings is a
third-generation family-led business that operates 330 convenience stores in
Texas and Oklahoma under the Stripes banner and supplies branded motor fuel
to more than 370 independent dealers through its wholesale fuel division. Susser owns and operates more than 150 Laredo Taco Co.
restaurants inside the Stripes convenience stores that feature authentic
“made from scratch” Mexican food. Town & Country Food Stores is a convenience store
operator in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, with 168 stores, of which 161
operate under the Town & Country banner and seven under the Village
Market banner. The company operates restaurants in 110 stores,
primarily operating under the Country Cookin’ name. Town & Country stores offer a selection of
merchandise, gasoline and ancillary products and services. The company’s operations also include a small wholesale
motor fuel distribution business. By JIM STREET Ed & Pub SANDERSON – The scoreboard read 76-24 and it was over
at halftime, the result of the “45” rule in six-man football that says if one
team is ahead by more than 45 points any time after halftime, it’s time to go
home. But in some respects, the hometown Sanderson Eagles
have nothing to hang their heads in shame about. True, they are 0-4 on the new season and have lost
three fourths of those games by the “mercy” rule. But the competition has been really tough and they did
give the sixth-ranked team in the state a run for their money at times last
Friday. All the opponents this year have ranked higher than
Sanderson and the Eagles came within three points of Water Valley at home Sept.
7. Last week, the Eagles had periods of brilliance but the
Red Devils showed why they are ranked so high and it was over at half time. And the Eagles did it without J.D. Brotherton, Phillip
Lascano and Jacob Benavidez who were nursing injuries. It all started with half a minute gone in the game when
Garrett Avalos ran it in from the 20. Juan Hernandez kicked the extra point
and it was 8-0 Rankin. About half a minute later, Avalos threw a 17-yard
scoring pass to Chase Epley. Hernandez again split the uprights and it was
16-0 in favor of the visitors with 8:52 left on the first-quarter clock. The Red Devils extended their lead to 24 points about
two minutes later when Hernandez scampered 32 yards for six and then booted
the PAT. But with 3:34 left on the first-period clock, Eagle
quarterback Ben Rubio found teammate Ryan Rosas in the end zone for a
two-yard pass. Ben turned around a booted the PAT and it was 24-8. A minute later, Ben found a fumbled ball over his head
at the Rankin 40. He pulled it down and ran to the five-yard line before
being brought down. Moments later, Darren Seidel ran the ball in for
another Eagle score. Ben again split the uprights and it was an
almost-respectable 24-16. But the joy only lasted about nine seconds until Avalos
returned the ensuing kickoff 45 yards for six more. The kick was good and the visitors extended their lead
to 32-16. They would tally again before the first stanza ended
when Avalos ran it in from the ten. The PAT missed the mark and it was 38-16
with ten minutes gone in the game. With a scant 20 seconds gone in the second period,
Avalos again scored on a 29-yard dash and the PAT was good, stretching the
lead to 46-16. A couple of minutes later, Jason Lemmond scored from
the three for the Devils and the PAT made it 54-16. But the Eagles were not ready to put their tails
between their legs, if that’s what Eagles do. Ryan Rosas scampered for 18 yards and then freshman Johnathan Calzada scampered for 30 more to
paydirt. Ben Rubio’s toe added two more and it was 54-24. But that ended the night for the Eagles’ scoring. The
Red Devils added eight more on a 21-yard pass play from Avalos to Chase Epley
and half a dozen more on a pass from Avalos to Jorge Castillo. The final nail in the coffin came with eight more on a
13-yard scamper by Hernandez who also booted the PAT at 1:40 in the first
half. The Devils had only to take a knee a couple of times
before the kids from Rankin headed home and the Eagles went across the street
to the Fifth Quarter at the Church of Christ. Ben Rubio completed five of 14 passes for 42 yards and
one touchdown in the losing cause. On the other side of the ball, he also
hauled in one interception. Johnathan Calzada ran seven times for 50 yards and one
TD. Ryan Rosas had 49 yards on four carries. Raul Salazar at 15 carries for
20 yards and Darren Seidel had one scoring five-yard run. Bubba Ramirez hauled in two passes for 25 yards. Ryan
Rosas had two receptions for seven yards and one score and Johnathan Calzada
had one for 10 yards. Tonight is homecoming with the Eagles hosting the
Cowboys from Grandfalls-Royalty. After coronations and the honoring of “past royalty”
going back to 1947, kickoff will be at 7:30 p.m. at Eagle Stadium. Homecoming
to honor past royalty SANDERSON – This has been Homecoming week at Sanderson
High School and, among the activities is tonight’s football game between the
Sanderson Eagles and Grandfalls-Royalty Cowboys at 7:30 p.m. But before kickoff, “past royalty” from 1947 to present
will be honored, including the 1957 Miss Future Homemaker of America, Jessie
Mae McClellan of Sanderson. Also honored will be the 2007-08 Homecoming king and
queen. Superintendent Gary Hamilton said there was no
“homecoming queen” as such until recently but “royalty” was crowned before a
home football game each year. The first Miss SHS was Amelia Escamilla of the class of
1968, who was honored in the fall of 1967. McClellan, Miss FHA of 1957 and a long-time Sanderson
Elementary teacher, will be featured in the homecoming parade and will be presented at the pre-game
coronation ceremony tonight. Other past royalty include Escamilla, Nancy Peavey,
Jeanette Kerr, Jill Rose and 1997 King and Queen Violita Lopez and Francisco
Lopez. “We are looking forward to this new and exciting year,”
Superintendent Gary Hamilton said. “The students work hard to make this
event special. “Our cheerleaders and student council work tirelessly
to have a super extravaganza,” he said. “The school appreciates the community
support that is so freely given. We hope everyone comes out to have a great
time.” Queen nominees for 2007 are Hannah Black, Rosa
Gonzalez, Danell Graham and Irma Nuńez. Candidates for king are Leo Busch, Ben Rubio, Raul
Salazar and Davis Stumberg. Class princesses are freshman Ernestina Gonzalez, sophomore Blakeney Chriesman and junior Raquel Hinkley.
Activities this week included Hillbilly day Monday in
which students dressed like country bumpkins, flip-flop and shades day
Tuesday, PJ and crazy hair day Wednesday, “fashion disaster” day yesterday
and spirit day today, Sept. 28, in which students were to wear orange and
black. The SHS Student Council is in charge of the homecoming
festivities that included a parade and bonfire yesterday, Sept. 27, a special
pep rally at 2:15 p.m. today and the junior class barbecue at 3:30 p.m. The barbecue raises funds to pay for the prom and the
2007-08 banquet. It will include brisket and sausage cooked by David
Brotherton. Tickets are on sale from any junior class member for $5
or $6 at the door. County
retirees will get raise SANDERSON – Retired Terrell County workers got a raise
Monday when County Commissioners approved an increase in the county’s “cost
of living adjustment” from 60 to 100 percent. County Treasurer Lynda Helmers said the percentage is
based on the annual official federal COLA, not the amount of the increase. If the federal COLA goes up five percent, the retiree
will get a five percent increase in his retirement check, she said. The county also increased its contribution to the
retirement fund, matching the employee’s contribution with $1.75 for every
$1, up from $1.50 in the current year. And County Commissioners agreed to pay $300,000 into
the Texas County and District Retirement System, resulting in a decrease in
interest costs in future years. Helmers said it makes fiduciary sense to pay down the
balance while oil and gas revenues are up in the county to lower costs in
future years. The court agreed to keep a balance of about $10,000
from 2004 tax notes in a fund for improvements to the Terrell County Airport. In other action, the court agreed to provide $19,397 in
playground equipment, primarily for the new Legion Park next to the baseball
field. It also includes a swing set for Bicentennial Park. A Rabies Clinic was approved for Saturday, Oct. 20. Dr.
Paul Weyerts of Alpine will conduct the semi-annual clinic in the sally port
at the Sheriff’s office for the same fee as preceding years. Weyerts will provide rabies shots for a registration
fee of $3 per pet. And commissioners agreed to extend a new drainage ditch
on Pine between Fifth and the end of the street by about 15 feet in each
direction. The action would prevent erosion from washing into the
ditch from surrounding areas. The court took no action on providing uniforms for Road
and Bridge Department workers pending a review of whether the uniforms would
impose a tax burden on the employees. County Judge Leo Smith suggested the county buy ten
shirts and ten work pants for each worker per year. Helmers suggested steel-toed boots as perhaps more
desirable than uniforms. She said the workers need adequate protection while
working in the field. New
Deputy Sheriff on board SANDERSON – The Terrell County Sheriff’s Office is back
to full strength as of this week with the hiring of Patrick Freeman of
Longview. Freeman was sworn in Monday to fill the vacancy created when Jason Hamilton moved to Alpine. Freeman was employed by the Gladewater Police
Department for a year and a half before accepting the Terrell County
position. Freeman said he wanted to come to Sanderson because “I
like small town living.” He said he is single but he intends to stay here for a
“long time.” Time
sheets for workers approved SANDERSON – To comply with the National Fair Labor
Standards Act, Terrell County workers will now be required to fill out time
sheets to account for hours worked. Terrell County Commissioners Monday approved the use of
a uniform time sheet and time-clock rounding and affirmed a policy on work
schedules. Most employees will work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday
through Friday with an hour off for lunch. Workers for the Road and Bridge and emergency services work other hours but, except for the Sheriff’s
Department, workers will get compensatory time for all hours worked above 40
per week. The “rounding policy” states that if an employee starts
or stops work within five minutes of the scheduled time, it will be “rounded
out” to the proper time. County employees do not get overtime but Commissioners
said they were very concerned that employees take “comp” time – time off for
work exceeding 40 hours per week. Salaried workers must also fill out time
sheets. “We thought they were exempt but they are
not,” County Treasurer Lynda Helmers said. Comp time must be taken before employees
use vacation time, according to the policy. “We are not doing this just because we want
to,” County Attorney Marsha Monroe said. “It is required by the National Fair
Labor Standards Act.” SANDERSON – Availability of affordable housing is the
number-one “challenge” facing development in Terrell County, followed by the
need for a convention/visitor center and an improved “local image.” These were identified in a report to County
Commissioners Court Monday by AdventGX of College Station after a weekend of
public meetings here in May. The company has a $47,000 contract with the county to
develop a plan for economic development through tourism. AGX President Jose Quintana said after housing, the
convention/visitor center and a community image, the next needs are a
community marketing program, or “brand” development, and promotion of nature
and heritage tourism. Quintana presented a power-point program as part of a
“workshop” on the proposed convention center at Oak and Second. He said the convention center and the other aspects of
economic development “are all tied together.” An attractive convention center could be a “magnet for
special events.” He said it should provide a sample of the history and
culture of the region. It could even allow visitors to get a sense of “Old
Mexico without crossing the border.” County Judge Leo Smith has proposed a convention center
with a southwest theme with displays of the culture and history of the region
displayed throughout. Quintana suggested working with the Pancho Villa Museum
in Ciudad Chihuahua, Chih., and other tourist facilities to illustrate some
of the colorful history of the region.
To reach its goals, Quintana said the county should
concentrate on “opportunity vectors” including housing, nature and heritage
tourism, regional “brand” development and attracting new businesses,
particularly in retail and information technology sectors. He said manufacturing is not a realistic option at the
present time. To achieve the desired housing, Quintana suggested a
“small-scale planned community” to be publicly owned with housing that is
“smaller but better quality.” The “public” agency would acquire “manufactured
housing” and sell the units while maintaining ownership of the property. A management organization would provide exterior
maintenance to the homes and surrounding land. Homes in the “model park” could sell for $37,000 to
$140,000 and, because they would be modular construction, could be erected on
site in 45 to 50 days. Quintana also said there is an opportunity to develop
“infield” housing by putting new or upgraded homes in as many as 50 home
sites now occupied by old, derelict houses. For tourism, Quintana suggested a tourism
research and development program, which he estimated to cost $37,000. He suggested two new organizations be
created to further economic development, a non-profit Terrell Foundation to
receive grants and a for-profit Terrell Tourism Corporation that would sell
shares and then earn commissions on bookings and other money-making ventures. Quintana suggested an investment of $90,000
to support tourism development and $70,000 for brand development. Sanderson is in the “top half of rural
communities in the state when it comes to cleanliness,” he said. He also suggested $45,000 for an
“incubator” program to bring in new businesses in retail in information
technology. He said the Texas governor’s office has an economic development program
that could bring in new businesses from out of state. 'Prickly
Pear Pachanga' planned for next weekend SANDERSON – Planners of this year’s Prickly Pear
Pachanga, to be Saturday, Oct. 6, here, have released the details for the
several contests as part of the annual observance. It celebrates the naming of Terrell County as “Cactus
Capital of Texas” ten years ago. Contests include the Cactus Specimen Contest, Cactus
Photo Contest, Container Cactus Garden Contest and the Cactus Cooking
Contest. Contest entries will be accepted from 9 to 11 a.m. at
St. James Hall Saturday, Oct. 6. The annual Cactus Specimen Contest includes seven
divisions, Prickly Pear – widest pad, Prickly Pear – longest pad, Prickly
Pear – most tunas on pad, Cow tongue Prickly Pear – longest pad, Ocotillo –
longest, Cholla – tallest and specialty Cactus. The top three winners in each division will receive a
cash prize, $9 for first Place, $6 for second and $3 for third. Participants are limited to one entry in
each division. For the Cactus Photo Contest entry must be of a Terrell
County cactus. Photos may be color, black and white or sepia, must be an 8x10
with no frame or mat, and must be submitted to Christine Hinkle no later than
Friday, Oct. 5. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three cactus
photographs in the amounts of $25 for first place, $15 for second and $10 for
third. The Container Cactus Garden Contest will judge entries
for the most unique and attractive cactus garden planted in a moveable
container. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three entries,
$25 for first place, $15 for second and $10 for third. The Cactus
Cooking Contest will accept prepared dishes containing edible cactus. The
dishes will be judged on appearance, taste and the creative use of cactus. The Cactus Cooking Contest guidelines require some form
of edible cactus be a significant ingredient. Dishes may be hot or cold, the
recipe does not have to be original but must be homemade and written recipe
must accompany prepared dish. Sources must be included on written copy. Cash prizes will be awarded to preparer of the top
three cactus dishes of $25 for first place, $15 for second and $10 for third
place. Participants are limited to
one entry. The celebration will include the Prickly Pear Pachanga
Dinner and Silent Auction, along with the traditional cactus contests. The Dinner and Silent Auction will be at St. James Hall
beginning at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and wine. Dinner will be served about
8 p.m. Instead of the usual buffet or served seated dinner,
the meal will be at “serving kiosks” scattered throughout the hall. Party tables set for six will provide guests with the
formality of a seated dinner but will encourage mingling with friends and
neighbors as they visit food stations to choose from variety of dishes. Door
prizes will also be offered. In order to help with planning for the event, advance
tickets are being sold. Dinner tickets are $20 per person and there are still
some available. For more information about dinner tickets, donation of Silent
Auction items, or contest participation, call Henry Beth Hogg, Cindy Kelso or
Christine Hinkle. SANDERSON – The Sanderson Lions Club will have a
Caravan Sales for the Blind Broom and Mop Sale on Friday, Oct. 12. The sale will from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oak Street,
between Katie and Travis Roberts’s new antique shop, “TheTumbleweed,” and
Kenn Norris’s antique shop and real estate office. The Caravan for the Blind Truck brings quality products
made by the blind to communities across Texas. A variety of household and industrial mops, brooms and
brushes, barbecue, kitchen, bath, laundry . and lawn tools and deck, car and truck washing brushes
and squeegees will be available for purchase. The sale supports the Lions Club and helps the blind. Advance sales order forms are available by calling
Lions Club Secretary Christine Hinkle at 432/345-2977 SANDERSON – The Terrell County 4-H Club will host a
Mexican food luncheon at 12 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Community Building. The meal will include tacos, chicken enchiladas, beans,
rice, drinks and dessert. Each meal will be $6 per person and to-go plates will
be available. Proceeds from the lunch will benefit 4-H
projects throughout the year. The club will also have its first livestock project
meeting at 4 p.m. tomorrow, Sept. 29 at the Terrell County Fair Hall. Project leader Bobby Stegall will be available to
answer questions for youth interested in showing this year. He will also have contact information available on
where to locate livestock projects for the upcoming show season. Stock show dates include the Terrell County Fair
January 24 to 26, the Odessa Sandhills Stock Show January 4 to 12, Fort Worth
Livestock Show January 11 to February 3, San Antonio Livestock Show January 31
to February 17, San Angelo Livestock Show February 21
to March 2 and Houston Livestock Show March 3 to 22. 4-Hers had a day of fishing and relaxation at the Oasis
Ranch last weekend. A total of 17 youth and 11 adults took part in the
event, catching and releasing fish and “pigging out” on hot dogs provided by
Sonny Adauto. By ELIZA ODGERS 4-H Reporter SHEFFIELD – The “lure” of the fish-out brought in a
whopping 28 in attendance – 17 “minnows” (kids) and 11 “bass” (adults) to the
Oasis Ranch last weekend. Many a line was baited with quite a few fish caught and
released. We played games, filled our bellies and some got “baked” by the sun. We would like to thank the volunteers and Sonny Adauto
for cooking the hot dogs. All in all, it was a slashing good time. Clover kids had their first meeting last Monday, Sept.
24. Woodworking had eight kids and sewing had five. This Monday, Oct. 1, is photography at 5:30 p.m. and youth financial at 7 p.m. on the second floor of
the Courthouse. Mexican dinner is coming up on Sunday, so 4Hers come
and help, please. Last but not least, fair projects are to be started and
you need to get your animals ready if you are going to show. SANDERSON – The annual “See you at the Pole” event had
its best turnout in ten years when nine students showed up to pray for our
schools and our country this week. “See you at the Pole” is a nationwide event initiated
and led by students, which began in 1990. The theme this year was “Gather. Unite. Pray. Come
together” from John 17:20 to 23. The students gather at the flagpole of their school to
pray for their schools and their countries. In 2006, more than two million teens gathered in the 50
states. International reports came in from six countries. Canada shares the same day with the US while Australia
observes the day in May. Adults are welcome but the event must be initiated and
led by the kids. SANDERSON – The Rio Grande - Pecos River Soil and Water
Conservation District Number 237 has invited the public and any agencies with
interest to participate in a program development group meeting next week. The meeting will be at the NRCS Office at 823 W. Oak at
1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2. The meeting is to request participation and invite
comments from a broad range of local agencies, organizations, businesses and
ranchers that have an interest in natural resource conditions and needs. The discussion will help the Local Work Group, led by
the Rio Grande - Pecos River SWCD and USDA Natural Resources Conservation
Service district conservationist to address county based funding for the
fiscal year 2008 Environmental Quality Incentives Program, known as EQIP. The LWG will make recommendations on resource concerns
to be addressed, eligible practices, cost share rates and ranking for county
based funding. One of the guiding principles of the 2002 USDA Farm
Bill is that conservation programs be locally led. Through stakeholder meetings, the public is given an
opportunity to help local conservation leaders set program priorities. These meetings are open to the public. “The EQIP program was established in the 1996 Farm Bill
to provide a single, voluntary conservation program for farmers and ranchers
to address significant natural resource concerns,” Conservationist Darrel
Seidel said. Nationally, it provides technical and financial assistance to address natural resource concerns. Administered by the Natural Resources Conservation
Service, EQIP was reauthorized in the 2002 Farm Bill and awards cost share assistance to
agricultural producers who will apply cost share and incentive practices,
which provide “significant environmental benefit,” Seidel said. In Texas, NRCS provides funding to each county to
address local high priority resource concerns. For more information, call the USDA Service Center
office at 432/345-2595. Service Center locations and program information can be
found on the Texas NRCS website at www.tx.nrcs.usda.gov. By MELISSA PERNER Editor and Publisher ~ Ozona Stockman LUBBOCK – The Wardlaw Group has filed an objection to
Wool Growers’ motion to dismiss in the ongoing bankruptcy case. The objection, filed Sept. 19 in US Bankruptcy Court
here, says that the motion to dismiss is nothing more than Wool Growers’
attempt to accomplish what it tried to pursue through the company’s
reorganization plan, which was denied in July. “The best interests of officers and directors, Bunger,
Black and Allison, may be served but not the best interests of the creditors
and the estate,” the objection said. The Wool Growers Board of Directors are George Bunger
Jr., Bill Black and John Allison. Court documents say the Wool Growers board of directors
has deposited $2.6 million to be paid to the creditors and claimants in the
case, with escrow agent Walter O’Cheskey. The Unsecured Creditors Committee has filed a limited
objection to the motion to dismiss stating that the motion to dismiss does
not require O’Cheskey to deposit the funds at the highest rate of interest
possible at an approved depository of the US trustee’s office. The committee’s limited objection also states that the
motion to dismiss does not specify who shall be entitled to the interest on
the funds in the possession of O’Cheskey in the event there is a delay in the
distribution of funds due to legal proceedings. “Although the court has discretion in deciding whether
to grant [Wool Growers’] motion to dismiss, [Wool Growers] has failed to
prove that a dismissal would be in the best interests of creditors or the
estate and has failed to show cause for dismissal,” the objection said. The Wardlaw Group claims that it has shown the terms of
the motion are vague, fail to fully explain the disposition of Wool Growers’
assets and effectively prejudice creditors who do not execute a release to
the board of directors. Wool Growers is attempting to obtain credit without
filing a motion and that the motion to dismiss provides for payment of
administrative expenses and professional fees without review by the court,
the objection stated. “Cause exists
for the appointment of a trustee in this matter to administer the bankruptcy
estate so that all unsecured creditors are treated equally and fairly,” the
objection said. “A trustee would ensure that all of [Wool Growers’] assets
are liquidated in an orderly manner and that the maximum return on assets is
obtained, instead of allowing the officers and directors to force the
acceptance of less than 100 percent of their debts in order to benefit
officers and directors who come into the court with unclean hands.” A memorandum opinion written by US Bankruptcy Judge
Robert L. Jones states that Wool Growers Board of Directors should be held
liable for the corporation’s debts that arouse during a two-year period where
the corporation’s corporate charter was forfeited for failure to pay
franchise taxes. The company filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy on April
28, 2006. During the two-year period, many of the company’s funds
were taken and improperly used, the documents state. The reason for the corporate charter forfeiture is due
to irregularities found by the Wool Growers accounting firm. The firm said that there was something wrong with the
company’s inventory values and that the firm didn’t feel comfortable filing a
franchise tax return without a physical inventory. The firm then told the Wool Growers Board of Directors
to perform a physical inventory, which was never done. The Wardlaw Group consists of Jack David Wardlaw, Jesse
Lem Wardlaw and Wardlaw Brothers, which is composed of Jack David Wardlaw
III, Mack Miers Wardlaw and William Chase Wardlaw. A hearing to rule on the motion has been set for 1:30
p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, at the Federal Courthouse in San Angelo. MNL September 28, 2007 By KIM RAPP Acting Editor MARATHON – The Los Jax Team of Marathon won the award
for best Cabrito at the annual West Fest and Cabrito Cook-off here Saturday,
sponsored by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce. The team of Ben Ramirez and Ruben and Joe Gonzales said
they were “very excited” to win the award. They have been trying for six
years. Second best were Rosalinda and Tom Crase, calling
themselves “The Crazys,” and coming in third was Lynn Shackelford,
representing the Dead Horse Ranch. Shackelford then split the price of the best spot for
next year’s West Fest with Todd Liverman. The spot is auctioned off and this year it brought in
$1,500 for the “Friends of the Post Park,” which improves and maintains the
park. The “Friends” auctioned off two spots this year and
Buddy Cavness will set up under spot number two next year for a price of
$500. The annual event, one of the top red-letter days on the
Marathon calendar, was moved from the Ritchie Building to the Post Park last
year. The park provides more space and more shade so it was
returned this year. First place for brisket this year went to the Lampasas Bunch, consisting of Todd Liverman, Roy
Stewart and Kim and Logan Van. In second place was Mark Sanchez of Alpine, calling
himself Lonesome Dove. The Los Jax team won third place in the brisket event. The Marathon student council delivered the delicacies
to the five judges. “This way, the judges do not interact with
contestants,” Chamber spokesman Rhonda Garlick said. Three of the judges were local boys, Pancho Ortega,
Mark Mullin and Frank Galvan. From Alpine, Joe and Olga Keese made up the
five. The best beans award went to the Lampasas Bunch. Second
place went to locals Marilyn and Mackey Shackelford of the Dead Horse
Mountain Ranch. They beat out son Lynn and Della Shackelford who came
in third, also representing Dead Horse Mountain Ranch. In the dessert category, Sue Neie of Alpine took home
braggin’ rights in first place with her empanadas. In second place was the Dawg Grangers, made up of Buddy
Cavness, Ray and Terry Ortega and Leslie Charles-worth. Bringing home third place prize was “The Crazys.” In the showmanship category, first place went to Lynn
and Della Shackelford along with Dewey Stockbridge. In second place was Efran, Lionel Maltose, Robert Zalo
and Cito Hernandez, calling themselves The Windmill Gang. Coming in third with a Halloween theme was Chef Paul
Petersen, Juan Scott and Andrew MacArthur representing the Gage Hotel. This years canoe race winners were high schoolers
Colten Johnson and Devin Kolesar. Among the games was a dunk tank sponsored by the Alpine
school district. Brewster County Sheriff Ronny Dodson and Chief Deputy
Ryan Skelton were among those that took a dip as people paid $1 for three
softballs to throw at a target. When the ball hit the target, the “victim” took a
plunge. Also on the card were roping contests for the younger
set, washer toss games and local food, drink and craft vendors. Many spent the day eating, visiting and listening to
music played by a disc jockey. The dance, with music by Los Tejanos of San Angelo, was
Friday night. MARATHON – With another West Fest behind it, Marathon
is looking to forward to two major races in the next two weeks. The Road Runner Open Road Race for automobiles will be
on Saturday, Oct. 6, and the Marathon 2 Marathon foot race is the following
Saturday, Oct. 13. These two days red-letter days in Marathon were run, no pun intended, on the same day last year. That didn’t work out very well so planners agreed to
schedule them a weekend apart this year. This will be the third annual RRORR and year number
five for the M2M. The road race supports itself through entry fees and
sponsorships and Marathon and Fort Stockton both benefit from the business it brings. The M2M benefits the Texas Diabetes Institute. Road Race Coordinator Kenda Furman of Fort Stockton
told the News Leader there were 87 entries “and counting” with just over a
week to go to race day. MARATHON – There will be a grand opening tomorrow for
the old Adobe Rose Inn near downtown Marathon. The building has opened as a bed and breakfast and
“Father Rick” Ruiz with Lil’ Jimmy and Tony Lujan will entertain at the
opening at 7 p.m. tomorrow at 102 South First, just south of the railroad
tracks. Spokesman Tim Thayer said a suggested donation of $10
will help the Marathon Volunteer Fire Department acquire a new brush fire
truck to replace a 28-year-old military surplus truck the town is now using. He said the open house will feature “great food, an
open bar and live music.” Thayer said his sister, Lisa Cameron of Bandera,
acquired the property next to the James Evans Art Gallery in 1998 and converted
it into a bed and breakfast. He said she put the property up for sale and a cousin, Alan C. Byron of Boston, bought the old inn. He plans to offer rooms starting at $125 per night with
complimentary cocktails in a “common room” on the second floor. The room opens onto a second-story balcony as does one
of the sleeping rooms. The common room also features a television with Dish
Network satellite service. Each room has a small DVD player and a large bedroom in
the back also includes a 32-inch flat-screen television set. Thayer said Byron will stay in that room when he is in
town, which he said could be as much as six months out of the year. “He has business interests to attend to in Boston or
he’d be here all the time,” Thayer said. Another room in a 32-foot Airstream travel trailer also
has a television. Thayer said the business has some 300 movies on DVD to
let clients use. Byron also plans to open a Southwest, “Tex-Mex”
restaurant with seating indoors and out, Thayer said. Byron said Jane Lord Dunning will operate the
restaurant. She is the proprietor of two successful restaurants in Maine with
Southwest cuisine. Byron said Dunning will collaborate with and share the
management of the restaurant with Thayer and Tara Sechrest. The restaurant, to be known as “Rondo Luna,” will be
open in the next few weeks. The building was originally built in 1898 and was once
owned by Lucille French, who started the French Grocery Store in Marathon. Town
& Country sold to Susser Holdings SAN ANGELO – A spokesman for Town & Country Stores
here Wednesday confirmed a report on the company’s website that Susser
Holdings Corp. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the parent
company of the San Angelo-based stores in an all-cash transaction valued at
approximately $361 million, subject to certain closing adjustments and before
transaction costs and expenses. Town & Country is a privately owned company and a
leading convenience store operator in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico with
140 locations serving Central and West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, and 28
locations serving Eastern New Mexico. It includes a large store and truck stop on the west
edge of Sanderson. Town & Country had total reported sales of $842
million and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of
$50 million during the 12 months ended Aug. 4. Town & Country owns approximately 80 percent of its
stores, along with a land bank of 14 undeveloped locations for future
development. Susser expects to finance the transaction through a
combination of committed debt financing, lease financing and excess cash. The transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings
per share in 2008. The transaction is anticipated to be completed in 60 to
90 days and is subject to federal antitrust review, required consents and
other regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The spokesman said she did not know if the new
ownership would involve any changes. Corpus Christi-based Susser Holdings is a
third-generation family-led business that operates 330 convenience stores in
Texas and Oklahoma under the Stripes banner and supplies branded motor fuel
to more than 370 independent dealers through its wholesale fuel division. Susser owns and operates more than 150 Laredo Taco Co.
restaurants inside the Stripes convenience stores that feature authentic
“made from scratch” Mexican food. Town & Country Food Stores is a convenience store
operator in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, with 168 stores, of which 161
operate under the Town & Country banner and seven under the Village
Market banner. The company operates restaurants in 110 stores,
primarily operating under the Country Cookin’ name. Town & Country stores offer a selection of
merchandise, gasoline and ancillary products and services. The company’s operations also include a small wholesale
motor fuel distribution business. MARATHON – Marathon youth have joined forces with
Alpine, Marfa and Fort Davis to play soccer. The teams are split into age groups. There are teams
for children under six, under eight and under ten years old. Diana and Brian Cook are coaching the U-6 team, calling
themselves the Mustang Longhorns. Coaching the U-8 team is Leandra Ramirez and Simon
Martinez. Andrea Johnson is also lending a hand. The five of them will all coach the U-10 team. The teams will have six regular season games going
until November 18 with a weekend tournament. The U-6 and U-8 don’t keep official scores. Backers said they looked far and wide to find enough
kids who wanted to play but they are still short on adults. Even older youth
would be appreciated. A high school kid with nothing better to do can join in
the fun and be a role model to the younger generation. They might even have some fun. Sponsors this year are Silla Furniture Design of Marfa,
Sierra La Rana and Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Games will be on Saturdays and Wednesdays, rotating so
that families can have some Saturdays off. Home games will be
here of course, away games will be played in Alpine, Marfa or Fort Davis. For a complete
schedule go to www.bigbendsoccer.com. The group will have a bake sale outside the Trans Pecos
Banks here from 11 a.m. till 2 p.m. tomorrow, Sept. 29. Proceeds will go towards covering registration fees.
Donations are also accepted. Those interested in volunteering can call Diana Cook at
432/386-3561. West
Fest was ‘fun filled’ time By CAPRI GARLICK Paper Brigade MARATHON – The West Fest last weekend was a fun- filled
day. One of the events in particular was the canoe races. The contestants that won were freshmen Colten Johnson and Devin Kolesar, a senior at Marathon High
School. They were
unstoppable in the championship round against two sophomore boys from Alpine
ISD, Daniel Flud and Chino Macias. Congratulations Devin and Colten. EDITOR’S NOTE: Capri Garlick is a member of this year’s Paper
Brigade, fifth graders that contribute stories to the News Leader. She will be joined by Audrey Galindo.Back to top MARATHON – Pre-K and Kindergarten students last week
were able to plant two rows of turnips and lettuce in addition to the rows
already planted by Andrea Johnson’s third and fourth grade students. By Monday, the
warm sun and drenching afternoon showers had caused the seeds to start
sprouting. The young
students were excited to already see the green shoots appearing. The garden, in the southern corner of the
schoolyard, was inspired by Danielle Gallo of Marathon. It was to allow students to
learn about life by watching plants grow to maturity. By ANDREA JOHNSON Special to the News Leader MARATHON – A four-week-long unit on “Alice in
Wonderland” ended Friday with a Mad Hatter Tea Party. Children from Pre-K
through fourth grade participated. Elementary Library Aide Martha Abrego read the Lewis
Carroll classic to students. They designed
and constructed top hats and rabbit ears in art class with Belinda
Bynum. During PE, they learned to play croquet but with
mallets, wickets and wooden balls, not with hedgehogs, flamingos, and cards like Alice. The Marathon PTO picked up the tab for the students,
teachers, teacher aides and parent volunteers, Judy Briones and Haley Galvan,
to attend a performance of the play “Alice in Wonderland” at the Globe
Theatre of the Great Southwest in on the Odessa College campus in Odessa on
Tuesday, Sept. 18. T.J. Joyner
drove the bus. Students were also
treated to pizza at Mr. Gatti’s afterwards. The last event was a Mad Hatter Tea Party on Friday,
Sept. 21. Odd-sized chairs and tables held students as they tea drank out of odd-sized teacups – nothing matched. The students wore their top
hats and rabbit ears. Pre-K teacher Laverne Avery and the PreK and
Kindergarten classes decorated small cakes with blue icing and wrote “Eat me”
on them in white. Mary Mather made the tarts
and I contributed “Mock Turtle Soup.” Toast with orange marmalade
rounded out the tea party. Thanks to the Marathon PTO
for its support. SANDERSON – Terrell County will celebrate its
designation as the “Cactus Capital of Texas” with its 10th annual Prickly
Pear Pachanga, Saturday, Oct. 6. The celebration will include the Prickly Pear Pachanga Dinner
and Silent Auction and the traditional cactus contests. The Dinner and Silent Auction will be at St. James Hall
beginning at 7 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres and wine. Dinner will be served about
8 p.m. Instead of the usual buffet or served seated dinner,
the meal will be at “serving kiosks” scattered throughout the hall. Party tables set for six will provide guests with the
formality of a seated dinner but will encourage mingling with friends and
neighbors as they visit food stations to choose from variety of dishes. Door
prizes will also be offered. In order to help with planning for the event, advance
tickets are being sold. Dinner tickets are $20 per person and there are still
some available. Cactus enthusiasts are invited to participate in the
annual cactus contests. They include the Cactus Specimen Contest, Cactus Photo
Contest, Container Cactus Garden Contest and the Cactus Cooking Contest. Contest entries will be accepted from 9 to 11 a.m. at
St. James Hall Saturday, Oct. 6. The annual Cactus Specimen Contest includes seven
divisions, Prickly Pear – widest pad, Prickly Pear – longest pad, Prickly
Pear – most tunas on pad, Cow tongue Prickly Pear – longest pad, Ocotillo –
longest, Cholla – tallest and specialty Cactus. The top three winners in each division will receive a
cash prize, $9 for first Place, $6 for second and $3 for third. Participants are limited to one entry in
each division. For the Cactus Photo Contest entry must be of a Terrell
County cactus. Photos may be color, black and white or sepia, must be an 8x10
with no frame or mat, and must be submitted to Christine Hinkle no later than
Friday, Oct. 5. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three cactus
photographs in the amounts of $25 for first place, $15 for second and $10 for
third. The Container Cactus Garden
Contest will judge entries for the most unique and attractive cactus garden
planted in a moveable container. Cash prizes will be awarded
to the top three entries, $25 for first place, $15 for second and $10 for
third. The Cactus Cooking Contest will accept
prepared dishes containing edible cactus. The dishes will be judged on
appearance, taste and the creative use of cactus. The Cactus Cooking Contest
guidelines require some form of edible cactus be a significant ingredient.
Dishes may be hot or cold, the recipe does not have to be original but must
be homemade and written recipe must accompany prepared dish. Sources must be
included on written copy. Cash prizes will be awarded
to preparer of the top three cactus dishes of $25 for first place, $15 for
second and $10 for third place. Participants are limited to one entry. For more information about
dinner tickets, donation of Silent Auction items, or contest participation,
call Henry Beth Hogg, Cindy Kelso or Christine Hinkle. ALPINE – There will be a community public meeting of breast cancer survivors, friends and family members of those with breast cancer, health care
providers, elected officials, and any other interested parties Monday to
discuss a possible mobile mammogram unit to serve Big Bend. The meeting was called to create an
informal coalition to share information about the project, receive input and
build a consensus. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct.
1, at Kokernot Lodge. For more
information, contact Adrienne Evans at 432/ 371-2725 or e-mail her at superluckygirl13@yahoo.com. Mustangs
lose volleyball MARATHON – The Lady Mustang Volley Ball team was
defeated this week by the Buena Vista Longhorns. For game one, the score was 25-6. In game two, the
girls lost 25-9 and in the final game the Mustangs gave it a good fight but
lost 25-17. Their next games will be
tomorrow in Alpine against Alpine and Sierra Blanca. There will be a dual match
beginning at 3:30 p.m. |