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Three Shepherd Children Brave Snowstorm and More

On Christmas Eve, the Holy Mass at Immaculate Conception Church was scheduled for 9:00 p.m. (rather than midnight) to accommodate the CCD children Kinder - 5th grade who had rehearsed a special program to present after Communion. At about 6:30 p.m. that evening a bountiful snowfall started which gave Skidmore the first and very beautiful White Christmas in history, reportedly 10 - 12 inches of snow.

The first 3 pews were reserved for the anticipated 16 to 20 students, but it was soon realized the snow had kept all "Shepherd Children" home except for 3 (among the smallest of the students) who arrived in full costume:

Adam Gonzales, Zachary Mortensen, and Eddie Salas, Jr.

They looked so small sitting close together in what seemed like acres of reserved space acound them. And they soon knew it was up to them to present the program alone.

When the time came, they looked at each other, then bravely headed to the back of the Church where their program started. With the organ playing softly, they processed down the aisle "in search of the Infant Jesus" towards the creche, where they knelt, hands held in prayer, and sang/prayed a very soft "Silent Night." A loving and supportive congregation sang softly as backup and encouragement to the 3 lonely Shepherd Children, then responded with generous applause. The 3 managed to smile and appeared relieved but happy with themselves. They had done the work of 20!

Congratulations, admiration, kudos, way-to-go to these 3 students!
-- Submitted by Reeys Falcon

Send Your Snow Photos to the Signal!

Brady Bednorz creates a snow angel.

More photos continue to trickle in as the last remnants of melting snow trickle off area rooftops. Rather than linking to each set of photos separately, we ask that you click on "The Great Snowstorm of 2004." and look for links to the other albums at the top of the page. You may have to hit the "refresh" button to see the newer additions.

Send your digital photos to the Skidmore Signal and we'll add them to the album. Our collection of snowmen continues to grow!

The Great Snowstorm of 2004

The Ross home looks even nicer surrounded by a blanket of snow.

Like an event straight out of a made-for-TV Christmas Special, Skidmore residents awoke Christmas morning to a winter wonderland. Area children enjoyed a rare opportunity to build a snowman and engage in snowball fights while adults snapped plenty of photos to commemorate the historic event. Unfortunately, the "entire staff" of the Skidmore Signal was stranded in Corpus Christi when the storm hit. We were, however, able to send a photographer back to Skidmore Saturday afternoon. Check out the results in "The Great Snowstorm of 2004." PS: Send your digital photos to the Skidmore Signal and if we like em' we'll add them to the album. Don't forget those snowman shots!

UPDATE: Wanda Mortensen sent some more great winter photos. Check out Wanda's Snowman Shots and "Save the Barbies!"

UPDATE: Stacie Bednorz submitted some nice shots taken out in the country. Check out Stacie's Christmas Shots". Be sure to look for "Shrek."


Joshua and Morgan Lopez play in the snow outside their grandparents' home.

Obituary: Billie Frances Standridge

Billie Frances Thornal Standridge, age 73, passed away December 19, 2004 in Midland, Texas.

Mrs. Standridge was born October 21, 1931 in McAlaster, Oklahoma to Arthur Thornal and Elizabeth Littlefield. On October 31, 1947 she married Carmen R. J. Standridge in Oklahoma. Mr. Standridge preceded her in death December 21, 2003.

Mrs. Standridge was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Midland and formerly resided in Beeville. She was a beautician and owner of Billie's Beauty Shop, and a member of the Volunteer Fire Department EMS and Ladies Auxiliary. For many years she drove a bus for Skidmore-Tynan I.S.D.

Mrs. Standridge is survived by two sons, Richard Allan Standridge and wife Michelle of Midland, and Michael Wayne Standridge and wife Martha of Goliad; three daughters, Frances Smigielski and husband Robert Smigielski of Beeville, Patricia Ann Cole and husband James Cole of Semora, NC, and Tessie Claudine Rugar and husband Fred Rugar of Beeville; two sisters, Tommie Baldi of El Paso, and Wanda Anderson and husband Leonard Anderson of Oceanside, CA; ten grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren. A great granddaughter, Doretta Standridge also preceded her in death.

Funeral arrangements by Galloway and Sons Funeral Directors, Beeville, Texas
Visitation hours: 6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m. Thursday, December 23, 2004.
Funeral: 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 24, 2004
Pastor: Jason Teague
Burial: Evergreen Cemetery, Skidmore, Texas.
Pallbearers: Ray Martin, Frank Carriger, George Baker, Allen Bohac, Steven Standridge, and Robert Meyers.
Honorary Pallbearers: Ladies Auxiliary of Skidmore.

A White Christmas?

Now that's not something you see often in Skidmore's weather forecast. Next issue... best snowman contest winners.

Jane Nutt Sings at Annual Historical Society Christmas Dinner

Standing from left to right: Dee Buerger, Tut Buerger, Jessie Mae Wallek, Edwin Wallek, Barbara Segelkin, Maureen Duge, Dick Segelkin, Cora Laechelin, and Annette Griffith. Seated left to right: Jane Nutt, Edgar Duge, Carol DuBois, and Delia Arismendez. Not pictured are Alma Gonzales (late arrival), Betty Strong (still cooking) and Keith Petrus (behind the camera).

Papa's Market hosted the "umpteenth" annual Skidmore Historical Society dinner Tuesday, December 14th. Jane Nutt was the featured entertainment for the evening. Her vocal performance of Silent Night was a real treat, especially for those of us who never before heard her sing. Dick Segelkin was also called upon to read a poem about the true meaning of Christmas. Fellow society member Betty Strong cooked up a feast for the occasion featuring turkey and dressing, a spiral cut ham, yams, fruit salad, and a large selection of desserts. At least one of the assembled diners missed sampling the desserts after overindulging in Mrs. Strong's wonderful, raisin and pecan dressing. Special thanks to the staff of Papa's Market for assisting in preparation and presentation of the the dinner, and to Carol Dubois for the use of her decades-old but still quite attractive table decorations.

Elementary Christmas Program Dedicated to Patricia Holubec

Mrs. Holubec couldn't help being a little "verklempt" over the surprise dedication.

Former S-T Elementary Principal and current High School Principal Patty Holubec was surprised and touched to be honored in the Thursday, December 16th, Elementary Christmas Program.

"The Skidmore-Tynan Elementary is continuing a 7 year tradition of honoring community members who have contributed much of themselves and their valuable time to our community and/or our school throughout the years. This year's Christmas Program will honor former Elementary Principal Patricia Holubec. This tribute is in celebration and gratitude for her years of service to our school and children. Mrs. Holubec began her career in education as a kindergarten teacher in 1977, then went on to teach several other grade levels in our district. Later she also served as elementary facilitator. She left Skidmore for a brief time to work in Taft and Beeville, before returning to Skidmore to serve as Elementary Principal in 1998. With Mrs. Holubec at the helm, Skidmore-Tynan Elementary achieved the status of a nationally recognized Blue Ribbon School in 2003. After establishing this strong foundation for our young students, Mrs. Holubec has now taken the lead role at the High School where she serves as Principal aspiring to develop a top quality education for ALL Skidmore-Tynan students. We dedicate this program to Mrs. Holubec as she strives to build a stronger program so that our younger students will continue to benefit in the years to come."

The theme for the evening was a "Hometown Holiday." It was standing room only as Kindergarten and 1st grade children serenaded the audience with Jingle Bells, Holiday Lights, and On Christmas Morning. The 2nd and 3rd grade followed with It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Merry Christmas to Me, and Santa Needs a Vacation. The 4th and 5th grades teamed up for a multi-cultural performance entitled "Paint the Town December." Students featured in the presentation were: "Painters" Erica Abrigo, Magarita Aguilar, Brad Butler, Amber Campbell, Mikaila Chambers, R.J. Estrada, Lonnie Jordan, Kevin Lopez, Tiffany Rozell, Emily Salinas, Clarissa Soto, and Nino Trevino. Solo performers included Kyle Scotten as Mr. Ladin in Nes Gadal Haya Sham; Tamara Merritt as Mrs. Abraham in The Light of Kwanzaa; Ryan Martinez as Mr. Scrooge in Rockin' on the Housetop; Zachary Mortensen as Luke in Just a Tiny Baby; and Leigh Mae Banda as Senora Frida in The Colors of Las Posadas. The final presentation of the evening was Candle in the Window - with a little improvisation as technical difficulties interfered with the candle lighting.


4th and 5th Graders "Paint the Town December."

Thanks to Rita Burgess for directing the Christmas program and Elementary Principal Trisha Vasquez for serving as emcee for the event. Thanks also to Soto Signs, Mrs. B. Martinez, Skid-Mart, the S-T High School Ag Department, and the many parents, teachers, assistants, and students who worked hard putting the program together.

School Board Recognizes Athletic Honorees, Arroyo "District Coach of the Year"

All-District Football MVP Blake Stautzenberger shakes hands with Superintendent Dr. Belmarez.

The S-T ISD Board of Trustees recognized the recent accomplishments of Skidmore-Tynan student athletes at their regular monthly meeting, Monday, December 13, 2004. On display before the board were the Bobcat District and Bi-District Football Championship trophies and T.E.A. Accountability System Recognized District Plaque.

Receiving special recognition in Volleyball were Emily Mengers and Rebecca Ramos who were both named 2nd Team All-District. Cindy Gonzales, Katlynn Mengers and Sarah Schirmer received Honorable Mention recognition. Academic All district honorees were Stephanie Coker, Darcy Curnutte, Lucy Espinoza, Ashley Hernandez, Emily Mengers, Katlynn Mengers, Rebecca Ramos, and Sarah Schirmer. The Volleyball team is coached by Darcy Stockton and Joseph Grimes.

Coach Arroyo congratulated both the boys and girls Cross Country teams who each qualified for the regional meet. Runners were Chantale Adames, John Boscamp, Rob Boscamp, Brandon Burgess, Josh Castaneda, Alysa Drake, Stephanie Estrada, Matt Martinez, Coleman Mengers, Monica Olivares, Sarah Schirmer, and Jarius Yzaguirre. Coach Arroyo noted that Jarius also qualified for the state meet in Round Rock. The Cross Country teams were coached by Joseph Grimes.

After the entire Football team filed through (see previous Signal story for District Football Honorees), Superintendent Dr. Belmarez announced that head coach Adam Arroyo, by a vote of 6-1 among 31-AA Athletic Directors, was named District Coach of the Year. The sole dissenting vote was his own as coach Arroyo refused to vote for himself because, as Dr. Belmarez noted, "that's the kind of guy he is."

The Signal congratulates Skidmore-Tynan student athletes and the excellent coaching staff on a job well done.

Bob Horn to be Honored in County-Wide "Appreciation Celebration"

Bee County Sheriff Robert L "Bob" Horn is retiring December 31st, 2004 after 40 years in law enforcement. Bee County residents are honoring the sheriff at an "Appreciation Celebration" on his last day in office. The event will be held in the First Baptist Chuch Christian Activity Center gymnasium at 600 N. Jefferson in Beeville and is open to the public. Come and go, or come and stay from 3:30 - 7:00 p.m. -- Submitted by Lynn Cox

S-T Christmas Program Brings Standing Ovation and Encore Performance

Members of the High School Choir.

Parents, students, and faculty attending Thursday night's Jr. High and High School Christmas program were blown away by the talent displayed by our S-T student musicians. Under the able tutelage of music instructor Florencio Lara, the band and choir have grown not only in size but in ability as well.

The evening's recital began on a bit of a sour note, quite literally, as the 6th Grade Band made a false start of "Jolly Old St. Nicholas." Mr. Lara turned to the audience with his best "Home Alone" expression while the kids had a good laugh and began again. The slightly more experienced 7th Grade Band belted out Jingle Bells, Frosty the Snowman, and Echo Carol with nary a hitch.

As the High School Band took the stage they were joined by members of the High School Choir who made a dramatic entrance from the rear of the auditorium. Each choir member carried a single lit candle to the front of the stage where they gathered to sing Silent Night, Do You Hear What I Hear, O' Holy Night, and The First Noel/Pachelbel's Canon featuring several impressive solo vocal performances.

With a hard act to follow, the High School Band rose to the occasion with Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer, Three Christmas Carols, and What Child is This. It was the final performance of the evening that brought the crowd to their feet in a standing ovation as the band played a powerful rendition of the Ukrainian Bell Carol. In what may be a first for a Skidmore-Tynan music program, the band was called on for an encore performance.

High School Principal Patty Holubec and Superintendent Dr. Belmarez served as hosts for the program. Together they congratulated the students and their instructor on a job well done.


The High School Band under the direction of Florencio Lara. Click here to download a high resolution copy of this photo.

Cast your Ballot for Garrett Gonzalez in KRIS-TV’s “Six Sports Play of the Year.”

Bobcats football player Garrett Gonzalez was nominated in this year’s KRIS-TV “Six Sports Play of the Year” online poll. His heads-up steal of a sure interception against Hebbronville in the playoffs is one of the year's Top 10 plays.

Beginning Wedesday, December 8th at 10:00 p.m., fans can begin placing their votes on the KRIS-TV website. Students, parents, teachers, anyone can log on and view the plays 24 hours a day. From the home page, just click on “Sports” and you’ll see the poll. The winner will be announced December 22nd, 2004.

Everyone log onto KRIS TV Sports and cast your vote for Garrett (video clip #9) - then email everybody on your buddy list and tell them to vote too. To vote, look to the right of the first video clip where you'll see a blank for your e-mail address. That will take you to the voting area. Let’s show ‘em that Bobcat fans are a force to be reckoned with! You can also email this story by clicking on the envelope icon below.

School Board to Recognize Student Athletes

The S-T ISD Board of Trustees will recognize recent outstanding S-T athletic achievements at the beginning of its regular meeting Monday, December 13, 2004. The session will begin at 7:00 pm and will include recognition of the S-T Ladycats volleyball post -season honors, S-T Ladycat and Bobcat cross country team and individual post-season honors, state qualifier Jarius Yzaguirre, and S-T Bobcat football team and individual post-season honors.

Regular meeting action items include "Consideration and possible action to direct the establishment of an additional school district polling location in the community of Tynan" and "Consideration and possible approval of personnel recommendations."

Robbery at Skidmore Shamrock

If you drove by the local Shamrock Saturday evening, you may have noticed a collection of police cars responding to an apparent robbery. An ambulance was also called to the scene but it appears there were no physical injuries. More details as they become available...

UPDATE: Suspect apprehended Monday - local man confesses to both recent Shamrock robberies. Read all about it in the Bee-Picayune online edition.

Beeville 22nd Annual Christmas Home Tour

The Beeville Art Association is hosting their 22nd annual Christmas Home Tour on Sunday afternoon, December 12, 2004, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Five gaily decorated homes including the 1860's McClanahan House and the Barnhart House, home of the Beeville Art Museum, are on tour. Complimentary refreshments will be available. Tickets are $6 at the door and $5 pre-purchased at the Beeville Art Museum, Hogue's Jewelry, and Kay's boKays in Beeville. Tickets are $1 for children under 12. -- Submitted by Sandra Campbell, The Beeville Art Association.

Santa Entertains Children at 3rd Annual Lions Club Pancake Supper

Kiera Metz shares her Christmas wish list with Santa... and those are "Minnie Mouse" pony tails!

Little Bryce Baker summons his courage.

The Skidmore-Tynan Lions Club held its annual Pancake Supper with Santa Sunday, December 5th. Lions Ann & Russell Duggins report the sale of over 50 suppers, raising more than $200 for local Lions charities. Santa Claus was a bit late arriving, after briefly misplacing his suit, but made it in plenty of time to take requests and answer questions. "Where are your reindeer?" asked one little boy. "What color is your sleigh?" Lions Vickie Stubenthal, Brittany Luna, Robin White, Dee LeCount, Keith Petrus, and David Waishes helped greet customers, distribute pancake plates, and bus tables. With the kids' Christmas wishes safely recorded - along with those of a few adults, and after the last of the flapjacks were stacked and distributed to hungry patrons, Lions Club members closed the doors and exchanged Christmas gifts in a special post-supper celebration.

S-T Band Concert Rescheduled

The S-T Band/Choir Christmas Concert originally scheduled for Monday has been moved to Thursday, December 9. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm at the S-T Events Center.

Bargains Galore at Church Rummage Sale

Come early to snag the best deals at Saturday's Immaculate Conception Church Rummage Sale. The sale will take place at the church hall on Refugio & 2nd Street from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Items include clothes, glassware, toys, and lots more!

Pancakes with Santa

The Skidmore-Tynan Lions Club will hold its 3rd Annual Pancake Supper with Santa on Sunday, December 5th. The event is scheduled from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Chisholm Trail Cafe. Once again, Santa Claus has graciously agreed to take time out of his busy holiday schedule to listen to the Christmas wishes of area children. We're told he is not camera shy so bring your little one along for a photo with Santa. Supper will include piping hot pancakes, coffee or orange juice, and your choice of a side of bacon or sausage. Plates are just $4 and all proceeds go to Lions Club Charities.

Robert Henry Hartman

Readers of the Wednesday, December 1st, edition of the Bee-Picayune were saddened to learn of the death of Robert Henry Hartman, age 93 of Skidmore. Mr. Hartman was a member of the First Baptist Church where he served as "deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and usher; always willing to help anyone whenever possible." Mr. Hartman's obituary is online at Victoria Advocate.com. The Signal will post a link to the more extensive Bee-Picayune obituary when it appears in their online edition.

Junior High Sports Pics

Joe Manuel Casarez leads his teammates on a fast break against Banquete's 7th grade basketball team.


Zach Petrus tries to shoot over a Banquete player in the 8th grade game