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"We're fortunate that our economy in Pecos continues to be fairly
diverse," said Montgomery, who has been with the bank for 37 years.
"With the test track, prison, food processing, and the sulphur plant,
along with oil, farming and ranching, we're a little more diverse than
some of the other neighboring towns."
Security State Bank, located at Third and Cypress streets, employs a
total of 35 people within the community in both full-time and part-time
positions, representing over 500 years of banking experience. Bank also
has paid dividends to its shareholders, most of whom are local
residents, for over 40 consecutive years.
Security State Bank is both the only locally-owned bank in Pecos, and
the only one with its own automatic teller machine, located in the
drive-thru area on West Second Street.
"One half of our customers are utilizing the ATM," said bank vice
president W.H. Oglesby. The ATM offers 24-hour access to checking and
saving accounts at ATMs across the United States and in other countries
as well.
Security State Bank offers basic checking and saving services,
certificates of deposit and both consumer and commercial loans. "We
provide all services to depositors, including checking accounts,
interest bearing checking accounts and CDs," Montgomery said.
In the lending area, Ray Owen is senior vice president and senior
lending officer, while Gilbert Abila is vice president and Bobby Clark
assistant vice president.
Abila, a 1983 graduate of Pecos High School, has been on the job as an
assistant vice president at Security State Bank for four years after
returning to West Texas. He is the bank's consumer and real estate loan
officer, and is in his 13th year in the banking business.
Owen came to Pecos from 1st Interstate Bank in Arizona, where he spent
three years involved in agribusiness lending. He is a 1987 graduate of
Texas Tech, where he earned a B.S. in agricultural economics, and worked
at the Ford Bank Group and First National Bank of Lubbock before his
move to Arizona.
He is involved in direct lending for agribusiness and commercial loans.
He also handles some consumer lending and oversees the whole lending
function of the bank.
Clark moved into his new position in early 1995. He began work with
Security State in July of 1988 as internal auditor and loan review
officer. Currently, he handles consumer loans.
In the loan department, they finance real estate, automobiles,
commercial and agricultural ventures. The trust department sets up
trusts and settles estates.
"We are proud of our employees and their commitment to the community,"
Montgomery said.
Assistant vice president Brenda McKinney oversees the new accounts and
CD department, and is assisted by Sylvia Carrasco and Jackie Warren.
Oglesby said Security State Bank is home owned and operated. "The
stockholders are people you know in the community. We are proud to be a
part of Pecos and to continue to serve the community."
Directors for Security State Bank are William R. Bickley, Michael A.
Harrison, David G. Johns, James B. Kenney, Dudley K. Montgomery, J.F.
Pattee, Archie B. Scott, W.H. Oglesby and Ray Owen. Montgomery is
president and CEO.
Reeves County Hospital has sustained some stability in its operations.
The presently elected board and its vision and perception of how to flex
in the changing health care field has taken the district from a critical
"status quo" to a competitive, growing business with a positive future.
This is a plus for the community; the board, administrator and
cooperation of the medical staff have reduced expense through
renegotiating contracts and agreement and adding new services. Nothing
like this activity has taken place over the past eight years.
Dr. Ma has been here a full year and has been a valuable asset
contributing with the rest of the staff to the well being of the
community.
Dr. Libbie, a podiatrist, plans to make his residence in Pecos and
practice his specialty beginning in September 1997.
Clinics include, OB/GYN, cardiology, ENT, ophthalmology, oncology and
orthopedics.
The Reeves County Hospital Home Health Agency will be open in March to
give citizens of Pecos and the county a choice in health care.
Another new service, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, will provide an avenue
of care never before available to the community. This service will begin
in March of 1997. Announcements will be made in the near future.
The Physical Therapy Department was established in August of 1996. A
new mode of treatment will be available in March, in the form of
occupational therapy services. An announcement will be made when the
service is set up.
Women's health was a big issue in 1996. Reeves County Hospital began
providing mammography services and breast and cervical exams through
grant funding. Women with no resources can be accommodated for these
services since the grant funding is provided for a three year period.
This is the second year of a two-year contract with Lubbock Methodist
Hospital System and it has been a very compatible relationship with
positive impact.
The museum opened in 1962. Over 50 rooms of Reeves County West Texas
history awaits those who visit the hotel and No. 11 Saloon. The saloon
dates back to 1896, the hotel to 1904. Both were built by R.S. Johnson,
a retired Texas Ranger.
Original brass plates on the saloon floor mark the place where two
gunfighters died in shootouts. Among the furniture is a 100 year old
music box whose tunes bring back images of a working saloon and the
Orient, finest hotel between Fort Worth and El Paso. The ceilings of the
lobby and dining rooms of the hotel are the original pressed tin.
The 50 rooms in both buildings depict life in this area around the turn
of the century. Delicious meals served family style for 35¢ and a clean
room were a welcome refuge to a weary travelers.
Exhibit rooms throughout both buildings display a wide variety of
items, such as western heritage and rodeo including women ranchers and
cowgirls, natural history and Indian artifacts. The bedrooms of the
hotel range from turn of the century school, the home and several
business.
The multi-cultural history of the area is reflected as well. Each
community has a room dedicated to their own history. The volunteers of
the West of the Pecos Museum have made all this possible.
In the beginning, their labors created the facility and their continued
support makes the museum possible. In addition, the Friends of the
Museum, is an organization created to provide additional manpower and
financial support for the museum for special events.
Membership to this worthwhile organization is by annual dues: $10
single and $15 for a couple. Participation is based on individual
interest. If you are interested in volunteering on a regular basis or
otherwise we welcome your participation.
During the year, there are 10 temporary exhibits that provide frequent
visitors a special experience. In addition, the students of the
community are offered special events such as in spring, the Student Art
Festival, Kids of the Museum and during Christmas, the Christmas Program
and decorating live Christmas trees.
During the year, many private and public functions are enjoyed in the
saloon and courtyard. Visitors to our museum from all over the U.S. and
many foreign countries average almost 18,000 per year.
Have you visited your museum lately? Take the time to come by with your
family and experience your history at the West of the Pecos Museum.
Unique shopping for the Pecos area is the West of the Pecos Museum's
Mesquite House Gallery and Gifts shop. We offer a variety of unusual
spring gift ideas.
Our sweet sage potpourri from the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert has a
delightful, soft fragrance. A book, authored by a local resident,
containing a collection of potpourri recipes and the history of this art
is available. It might give you ideas about what to do with your
soon-to-be flowering garden blooms.
A much requested new arrival is the book entitled, "Healing With Plants
in American and Mexican West." It is interesting and will possibly
increase your awareness about your environment. The gift shop also
houses an assortment of butterfly and bird books to help you identify
your spring back yard visitors.
Another original gift idea is beautiful 50 year old cedar fencepost oil
candles and votive holders. You might want to shop early for Father's
Day presents. These are especially different.
From a northern Mexico artisan's colony come wonderful hand thrown
pots. They sport designs taken from 1920 antique rug patterns and are
beautifully fashioned.
A local jeweler has designed a small Pecos Bill charm, in sterling,
which will be arriving any minute. A charm for one's bracelet is always
an appreciated gift and what better way to share your very own Pecos
hero with a loved one?
Unusual framed mirrors and watercolors are available to decorate your
home, along with lamps, bowls and dishes. We still have a few antique
teapots that seem to be the collector's rage this decade.
Children's toys, books, and western wearing apparel are always a treat
for youngsters to receive for birthdays.
The museum always appreciates your business as the proceeds from the
Mesquite House benefit the museum. We hope to see you soon. We know you
are looking forward to the new cookbook that will be returning from the
publishers in a few weeks.
Do remember to include the Mesquite House Gallery and Gift Shop when
you need a unique idea.
The store's camera center carries an assortment of film and offers
Express Delivery for regular prints. A person can take their film in
before noon and have their prints in the next day, according to a store
employee. Special orders take a little longer.
Hunting, camping and work equipment are also available at the Central
Pecos store, as are garden tools and supplies, household cleaning,
health and beauty products.
Windham's wife, Gloria, son, Keith, and daughter, Tammy, make up the
11-member staff. Others are: Manager Ysabel Lara, Paul Hernandez, Mandy
Sotelo, Delma Lozano, Lupe Herrera, Julie Garcia and Alice Lara.
Gibson's True Value Home Center is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.
to 6 p.m.
The agency is presently owned and operated by Edward A. Daniel and Roy
Prewit. Both joined the agency in 1960. They are assisted by Mona
Mauldin, Rosemary Varela, Tina Trujillo, Karen Hornberger, and Matt
Metler.
Companies represented by Pecos Insurance Agency, Inc. are Trinity
Insurance Companies, American States Insurance, American Fidelity
Insurance Companies, Union Standard Insurance, The St. Paul Insurance
Company, Fidelity & Deposit, Western Surety, and Merchants Bonding
Company. They also represent other companies who provide all types of
special insurance.
This general insurance agency handles fire, auto, casualty and marine
insurance placement for both personal and commercial clients.
Crop hail and multi-peril insurance is available for farm customers,
and life insurance along with group health coverage with Blue Cross is
also offered
The Pecos Insurance Agency, Inc. staff wishes to thank its clientele
for their support and loyalty through its half-century of operation and
pledges the same dedication to the satisfaction of its customers now and
in the future.
Work continues on development of the South Worsham Field, and a study
is underway to determine whether additional wells should be drilled in
the Worsham field that has supplied much of the city's water over the
years.
How to get rid of used water is another problem that may require
purchase of a television camera that will travel underground.
Recent studies have shown collapsed sewer lines, said interim city
manager Harry Nagel.
By running a television camera into all main lines, the staff can
determine where breaks occur and what needs to be replaced.
"We will have to replace some lines," Nagel said. "I think we would be
better off buying our own equipment and selling it when we are through
with it."
City staff can operate the cameras after only two hours training, he
said.
Solid waste is being taken care of by Wes Tex Waste, who collects
refuse from dumpsters and alleyways and hauls it to Penwell.
Nagel said the city plans to close the Type I landfill that is lined to
prevent leakage of decaying garbage into the underground water table.
But to provide service to local residents, they will dig another unlined
trench that will accept Type IV debris only. That is primarily
construction debris, limbs and shingles.
"We want to dig the trench ourselves, so citizens won't have to pay
WesTex Waste to haul it. Now if you have a water bill you can dump in
the Type IV landfill for nothing."
One new fire truck was purchased last year, but Nagel said another is
needed, and the money is available to pay for it.
With one new ambulance purchased each of the last two years, the
volunteer ambulance service is in good shape.
Work done on the pound last year improved conditions for dogs and cats
that must be held for their owners.
No change was made in the parks department, Nagel said.
The council is working to hire a new city manager to lead the 80-plus
employees into the future.
General Manager Stephen Lawrence welcomes everyone who likes to visit
the plaza and take advantage of the high quality of gasoline and diesel
products, while adding changes are planned in the near future.
"We've added new menus at the restaurant (Thad's), and we should begin
doing remodeling to it within the next year," Lawrence said.
The local Flying J was one of the first in Texas, but others are being
added on all the time. Lawrence said there are currently 95 truck stops
located across the U.S., and the first one outside the country, in the
Canadian province of Quebec, is due to open this year.
Closer to home, Flying J is building another truck stop on I-20 in Tye,
west of Abilene. That will give the company a location about every 200
miles along the interstate in Texas, from Anthony to Texarkanna.
Flying J offers a full range of services to its customers such as
Thad's, its full-service restaurant, truckers' lounge, video game room
and convenience store with daily deli specials.
The plaza also offers shower facilities that have been called "the
cleanest on the interstate this side of the Mississippi." Other
facilities include a hair style shop, boot shine and laundry room.
The truck stop opened in September of 1988. The Flying J name comes
from the first name of the founder, Jay Call, and his love for
airplanes. He started the chain in the early 1960s when he opened his
first gasoline station in Willard, Utah.
The first Flying J travel plaza was completed in Ogden, Utah, in 1979.
In the early 1990s, Flying J entered into a partnership with Du Pont,
whose Conoco brand is now on the fuel pumps, both here in Pecos and at
virtually all locations across the country. Conoco, along with other
major bank credit cards, are accepted at Flying J, and the facility also
has an automatic teller machine for 24-hour cash access through credit
cards or bank ATM cards.
"The facility has been expanded to better accommodate our residents,"
said Rivera. "Our plans are so that we can provide better quality care
and also have an Alzheimer's Wing."
The expanded facility added 30 more beds and private bathrooms, a
larger kitchen and more office space. "With the new addition, it will
enable us to add an Alzheimer's wing and provide better quality care,"
she said.
The nursing home in 1995 had a "face-lift" with new furniture and
draperies, a part of the decor. "All the rooms were painted along with
the recreation area," said Rivera.
New bedspreads and living room furniture were also added to better
accommodate the residents.
Pecos Nursing Home is privately owned, and has been operated by Greg
Johns since 1977. It is a 90-bed facility with private and semi-private
rooms, and is located on Memorial Drive, just behind the Reeves County
Annex building.
Marci Rogers is the administrator with 81 employees in nursing, dietary
and housekeeping.
The facility has also recently acquired a whirlpool, to provide
whirlpool treatments for patients that need it.
"It's also associated with the retirement center for senior citizens,"
said Rivera.
Housekeeping personnel take care of all the laundry, cleaning,
maintenance and gardening.
Dietary personnel take care of cooking and dish washing, while a
dietary consultant helps with the menus.
The home also has a social activities director, along with volunteers
and a social activities consultant. They organize bingo, birthday
parties, holiday parties, picnics, exercise classes, senior citizens
luncheons, church services of various denominations, Spanish reading
Bible study, weekly movies and bus rides. Residents also enjoy arts and
crafts activities.
Residents are provided 24-hour nursing care with licensed personnel on
each shift. Services provided include medications, bedside care,
treatments such as respiratory therapy, oxygen, skin/wound care and
access to physical therapy.
Suctioning, catheterization, nasal gastric and gastric feedings, along
with insulin therapy and lab work are all a part of the nursing provided
the residents.
"We also give access to orthopedic surgeons, ophthalmologist, dentist,
optometrist and make doctor's office visits locally if a patient is able
to go," said Rivera.
A pharmacy consultant, a medical director, and three registered nurses
are available as consultants seven days a week to provide coverage.
The nursing home has four computers to help them with scheduling,
facilitate paperwork and provide more efficient nursing care.
Pecos Nursing Home also participates in a certified nurses aide program
established in the facility through the Texas Department of Health,
which the nursing home is qualified to have directly with the state.
The program was first initiated through Odessa College.
"We feel very lucky to participate in this program since not every
long-term care facility is able to qualify," said Rivera.
As manager of the supermarket, located at 1800 S. Eddy St., Torres said
"there's been some big changes," as far as sales and competing with
other grocery stores go.
Torres said he's had no problems slipping into the manager's position,
"I was already doing a lot of the stuff I'm doing right now."
He said the store offers food and service "as good as anyone else."
"The main thing we strive for is customer service," he said, "The
customer is number one."
"We're not staying at a stand still," said Torres, noting the Western
Union service and video store that have been added to Bob's services.
He added that "we offer the same thing as the other store (La Tienda),"
referring to fresh baked goods and tortillas which are acquired from its
sister store every day. Before then, goods were brought in from
Carlsbad's La Tienda.
Torres said "we went through a lot of people," when the "changeover,"
first came about, referring to staff changes when Furrs', Pecos' other
major grocery store, was purchased by Bill and Joe Fenn, the owner of
Bob's Thriftway, in November of 1995.
He claimed all was done with the idea of improving customer service.
"We're getting there," he said regarding their meeting their service
goals.
"We strive for professionalism and experience," he said, adding that
training is offered.
"I feel we've got a good staff right now," said Torres.
"We're open to any suggestions," he said, advocating an open-door
policy.
"With the closing of Socorro's Restaurant, I was offered this
opportunity to embark on a new business," said owner Chon Jasso.
Jasso stated that this new opportunity offered him a chance to bring
his experience and qualifications to make Terri's Restaurant a unique
dining experience.
Many of the same dedicated employees have blended with the great help
already implemented at Quality Inn.
"We brought the same cooks that were employed at Socorro's to work here
and have up to three cooks at one time working on the different menus we
offer," said Jasso.
Together the crew have a combined cooking experience of over 50 years.
The restaurant will offer delicious steaks, T-bones, ribeyes and many
other American dishes.
"We'll be featuring a lot more American dishes along with our famous
authentic Mexican food," said Jasso. "Everything is made from scratch,"
he said.
Terri's will also offer a daily buffet with different food items
featured. One cook will be working on breakfast, while another will be
working on breakfast and still another on lunch items.
"We'll also have a salad and soup bar," said Jasso.
The buffet will be extra special on Sundays, with mouth-watering
home-cooked meals featured. This buffet will accommodate church-goers
and families.
"Even though the buffet will be seven days a week, on Sundays we will
make it extra special with special items such as roast beef, fried
chicken, mashed potatoes," said Jasso.
Hours for Terri's Restaurant are from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. Buffet will
be open from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
"If we still have customers here late at night we will stay open until
10 p.m. and the buffet will be kept open until we feel that our
customers have been properly accommodated," said Jasso.
Coffee clubs are welcome at Terri's Restaurant and breakfast specials
will soon be offered.
"We plan to do some remodeling on breakfast and provide a friendly
atmosphere where people can come in an enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee,"
said Jasso.
Other plans include to purchase another tortilla machine.
"We also cater parties, have a large banquet facility which is perfect
for parties," said Jasso.
"We're very pleased with our employees, they are doing a tremendous
job, even though we were off to a rocky start, we are smoothing out the
rough edges," said Jasso.
He also stated that even though a lot of construction is going on, he
urges customers to come on in.
"They're doing a great job on remodeling, it's going to be great," said
Jasso. "It's been really nice working with Andy and Sam Pattel," said
Jasso, who states that the hopes to continue the association for a long
time.
Orders to go are welcome and plans in the future may include delivery
to businesses during the lunch hour.
"We want to accommodate all our customers, so if there's a special dish
they would like, we will try to make it," he said.
Chips and salsa before a meal are still offered.
A seafood buffet is featured on Fridays, with catfish, scallops,
stuffed crab, shrimp, oysters and all the trimmings.
"We appreciate all the locals who have followed us to this new
location," said Jasso, who issued a special thanks to the Downtown Lions
Club members who meet weekly at the facility.
"We welcome other clubs to come and try the new atmosphere and our
delicious food," said Jasso.
Reverse osmosis water is utilized in everything from cooking to
drinking to provide a safer, cleaner and better tasting meals.
Even though the buffet is opened daily, customers can still order
anything off the menu.
"They don't have to eat the buffet only, they can order from the menu,"
said Jasso.
New menus will also be printed with all the facility has to offer.
"We want to make everyone welcome and urge them to come over," said
Jasso.
Manager Pablo T. Carrasco said the local funeral home has been in
business "for a long time."
It first began operating under the ownership of the Anderson Family at
the corner of Fifth and Cypress and in 1962 relocated to its current
address, 607 W. Third St., when the home of a prominent ranch family,
the Rosses was renovated for the operation.
It was recently bought out by the Loewen Group of Family Funeral Homes,
whose headquarters is in Canada and Regional Office in Abilene.
Carrasco, Funeral Directors and embalmers, Jackie Harkey and Tony
Lujan, and most recently, Adam Arredondo, make up the funeral home staff.
"All the paperwork is done right here in this office," said Carrasco of
his function and station in the two-story building.
Pecos Funeral Home offers services that begin with the preparation of
the body to the burial.
The funeral home manager said either Harkey or Lujan are always present
for the preparation of a body and during all funeral services.
Personal beauticians are called in if requested, he added.
PFH staff work with family members to coordinate all the services and
even have a room filled with a selection of caskets that range in price
and intricacy.
The bottom floor of the building has two viewing rooms for family
members to spend with their loved one, and a chapel that sits 250 people
and is equipped with a family room.
The facilities are modern, Carrasco pointed out, the hearses are
immaculately kept and every funeral need is considered.
"We're on call 24 hours a day," said Carrasco, "and we honor all burial
insurances."
Pecos Funeral Home believes that everyone deserves a proper burial and
"nobody will be turned away," indicating that they offer payment plans
to fit any family's need.
"Everybody is treated fairly," and equally, he added.
The local agent acknowledges his many "loyal customers," who he said
stuck with him "no matter where we go. We really appreciate their
business."
Ortiz said he began with American National Insurance in 1977 and in
1984 went on with Employers Insurance of Texas.
"When that went under," he said, he opted to "go on my own," with his
wife in 1990, taking over the former EIT office in the corner of
Washington and Johnson Streets, carrying only Metropolitan Life.
In 1992 the couple dropped Metropolitan and began to expand their
business along with the services they offer to the public by
implementing other insurance groups such as: National Lloyd's,
Progressive and Northwestern.
Also policies through Dairyland and Foremost Insurance companies have
been available since the couple began their business, along with Viking
County Mutual.
Luz said he is able to monitor Dairyland activity, as his office is
connected to the company's mainframe computer in Austin. "We're looking
into to doing that with other companies," he added.
"We don't have Gerber Life anymore," said Luz, "but we're in the
process of adding Charter Insurance." He added that the carrier is
"pretty competitive with companies that carry the standard rates."
For the past three years, policies for life, fire, home, commercial,
auto, motorcycle, mobile homes and motor homes have been prepared for
customers at the Luz Ortiz Insurance Agency in Pecos, Monahans, Kermit,
Wickett, Grandfalls and the surrounding area.
Luz said he likes to assess a potential customer's situation before
advising them to sign up with his agency because, "I don't feel
comfortable," allowing them to cancel a policy they've had for a long
time.
"I like to see what's best for them," he said.
The couple enjoys using their business in promoting local events for
the community and said, "We enjoy being on our own."
Recently joining Career and Technology Education Office Administration
program with Pecos High School by hiring a part-time student, Veronica
Sauceda, Luz said "it's been working out great," and added he hopes to
continue with the program.
Sauceda seems to be enjoying her post at the insurance agency and said,
"We all get along."
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Security Finance manager Ana Varela said she and
the staff want to thank their customers for a great year.
"It has always been Security Finance's main concern to help the people
in Pecos and surrounding area with financial loans," Varela said.
Loans range from $100 to $400.
Security Finance is a successful and growing company. It has presently
expanded into 15 states. With 200 offices in Texas alone, the company's
goal is to have 600 offices nationwide.
"Security Finance is always looking into hiring individuals who are
interested in having a financial business career," Varela said. "We
provide on-the-job training."
Working with Varela are Aurora Franco and Gloria Aguilar. They provide
fast and friendly service, processing loans quickly.
"Phone applications are a great service that Security Finance
provides," Varela said.
Credit starter loans are offered to qualified applicants who have been
turned down for a loan because they have no credit history.
"Come by and let us help you start your credit," Varela said.
Aligned with Bitstreet Internet, Oilfield offers 100 hours of Internet
access per month for a flat fee of $35. Users dial a local access
number, so no long-distance fees are added.
Jeannette Alligood, co-owner, said the $50 sign-up fee includes
software for one of the most popular Internet browsers, Netscape 2.0.
Other browsers can be used with the service, including Microsoft
Explorer, which comes packaged with the Windows 95 operating system
installed on most new computers.
Once connected to the Internet, the user has access to everything on
the World Wide Web, FTP, Gopher, Telnet and other Internet servers, plus
E-mail.
Electronic mail is the most economical way to communicate with other
computer users, because there is no long-distance charge nor postage
cost. And mail is placed in the recipient's mailbox until he or she is
ready to download and read it.
Alligood said that local technical support is also available, so no
long-distance charges are incurred if you have a problem with E-mail or
Internet access.
"We also offer expertise in Home Page design so you can advertise your
business on the World Wide Web," Alligood said.
And they can provide the server where the Home Page will reside,
register it with search engines and help to maintain it. Photos,
graphics and sound may be included on a site.
"Check with us for prices," said Alligood.
Oilfield Phone has been in business since 1981, providing telephone
service to remote areas in the oil patch or ranch homes. They are also
an authorized CellularOne agent, extending service to almost any
location on the road or in the brush.
"We sell all kinds of telephones, including cellular and business
systems," Alligood said. "We install, service and maintain them."
The local owners and staff invite everyone to visit their spacious
offices at 401 S. Cypress St.
PECOS AT WORK 1
Feb. 27, 1997
Security State's financial status
tus remained strong in 1996
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Security State Bank's financial outlook continued
to be strong in 1996, with capital again exceeding 14 percent of assets,
according to President Dudley Montgomery.
"We're fortunate that our economy in Pecos continues to be fairly
diverse," said Montgomery, who has been with the bank for 37 years.
"With the test track, prison, food processing, and the sulphur plant,
along with oil, farming and ranching, we're a little more diverse than
some of the other neighboring towns."
Security State Bank, located at Third and Cypress streets, employs a
total of 35 people within the community in both full-time and part-time
positions, representing over 500 years of banking experience. Bank also
has paid dividends to its shareholders, most of whom are local
residents, for over 40 consecutive years.
Security State Bank is both the only locally-owned bank in Pecos, and
the only one with its own automatic teller machine, located in the
drive-thru area on West Second Street.
"One half of our customers are utilizing the ATM," said bank vice
president W.H. Oglesby. The ATM offers 24-hour access to checking and
saving accounts at ATMs across the United States and in other countries
as well.
Security State Bank offers basic checking and saving services,
certificates of deposit and both consumer and commercial loans. "We
provide all services to depositors, including checking accounts,
interest bearing checking accounts and CDs," Montgomery said.
In the lending area, Ray Owen is senior vice president and senior
lending officer, while Gilbert Abila is vice president and Bobby Clark
assistant vice president.
Abila, a 1983 graduate of Pecos High School, has been on the job as an
assistant vice president at Security State Bank for four years after
returning to West Texas. He is the bank's consumer and real estate loan
officer, and is in his 13th year in the banking business.
Owen came to Pecos from 1st Interstate Bank in Arizona, where he spent
three years involved in agribusiness lending. He is a 1987 graduate of
Texas Tech, where he earned a B.S. in agricultural economics, and worked
at the Ford Bank Group and First National Bank of Lubbock before his
move to Arizona.
He is involved in direct lending for agribusiness and commercial loans.
He also handles some consumer lending and oversees the whole lending
function of the bank.
Clark moved into his new position in early 1995. He began work with
Security State in July of 1988 as internal auditor and loan review
officer. Currently, he handles consumer loans.
In the loan department, they finance real estate, automobiles,
commercial and agricultural ventures. The trust department sets up
trusts and settles estates.
"We are proud of our employees and their commitment to the community,"
Montgomery said.
Assistant vice president Brenda McKinney oversees the new accounts and
CD department, and is assisted by Sylvia Carrasco and Jackie Warren.
Oglesby said Security State Bank is home owned and operated. "The
stockholders are people you know in the community. We are proud to be a
part of Pecos and to continue to serve the community."
Directors for Security State Bank are William R. Bickley, Michael A.
Harrison, David G. Johns, James B. Kenney, Dudley K. Montgomery, J.F.
Pattee, Archie B. Scott, W.H. Oglesby and Ray Owen. Montgomery is
president and CEO.
Hospital working to change with times
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - The health care field is changing so rapidly it
is a day-to-day challenge to keep up with the changes.
Reeves County Hospital has sustained some stability in its operations.
The presently elected board and its vision and perception of how to flex
in the changing health care field has taken the district from a critical
"status quo" to a competitive, growing business with a positive future.
This is a plus for the community; the board, administrator and
cooperation of the medical staff have reduced expense through
renegotiating contracts and agreement and adding new services. Nothing
like this activity has taken place over the past eight years.
Dr. Ma has been here a full year and has been a valuable asset
contributing with the rest of the staff to the well being of the
community.
Dr. Libbie, a podiatrist, plans to make his residence in Pecos and
practice his specialty beginning in September 1997.
Clinics include, OB/GYN, cardiology, ENT, ophthalmology, oncology and
orthopedics.
The Reeves County Hospital Home Health Agency will be open in March to
give citizens of Pecos and the county a choice in health care.
Another new service, Pulmonary Rehabilitation, will provide an avenue
of care never before available to the community. This service will begin
in March of 1997. Announcements will be made in the near future.
The Physical Therapy Department was established in August of 1996. A
new mode of treatment will be available in March, in the form of
occupational therapy services. An announcement will be made when the
service is set up.
Women's health was a big issue in 1996. Reeves County Hospital began
providing mammography services and breast and cervical exams through
grant funding. Women with no resources can be accommodated for these
services since the grant funding is provided for a three year period.
This is the second year of a two-year contract with Lubbock Methodist
Hospital System and it has been a very compatible relationship with
positive impact.
Local residents are welcome
to visit museum and gift shop
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - West of the Pecos friendliness is what visitors
experience when they enter the lobby of the Orient Hotel, now the West
of the Pecos Museum.
The museum opened in 1962. Over 50 rooms of Reeves County West Texas
history awaits those who visit the hotel and No. 11 Saloon. The saloon
dates back to 1896, the hotel to 1904. Both were built by R.S. Johnson,
a retired Texas Ranger.
Original brass plates on the saloon floor mark the place where two
gunfighters died in shootouts. Among the furniture is a 100 year old
music box whose tunes bring back images of a working saloon and the
Orient, finest hotel between Fort Worth and El Paso. The ceilings of the
lobby and dining rooms of the hotel are the original pressed tin.
The 50 rooms in both buildings depict life in this area around the turn
of the century. Delicious meals served family style for 35¢ and a clean
room were a welcome refuge to a weary travelers.
Exhibit rooms throughout both buildings display a wide variety of
items, such as western heritage and rodeo including women ranchers and
cowgirls, natural history and Indian artifacts. The bedrooms of the
hotel range from turn of the century school, the home and several
business.
The multi-cultural history of the area is reflected as well. Each
community has a room dedicated to their own history. The volunteers of
the West of the Pecos Museum have made all this possible.
In the beginning, their labors created the facility and their continued
support makes the museum possible. In addition, the Friends of the
Museum, is an organization created to provide additional manpower and
financial support for the museum for special events.
Membership to this worthwhile organization is by annual dues: $10
single and $15 for a couple. Participation is based on individual
interest. If you are interested in volunteering on a regular basis or
otherwise we welcome your participation.
During the year, there are 10 temporary exhibits that provide frequent
visitors a special experience. In addition, the students of the
community are offered special events such as in spring, the Student Art
Festival, Kids of the Museum and during Christmas, the Christmas Program
and decorating live Christmas trees.
During the year, many private and public functions are enjoyed in the
saloon and courtyard. Visitors to our museum from all over the U.S. and
many foreign countries average almost 18,000 per year.
Have you visited your museum lately? Take the time to come by with your
family and experience your history at the West of the Pecos Museum.
Unique shopping for the Pecos area is the West of the Pecos Museum's
Mesquite House Gallery and Gifts shop. We offer a variety of unusual
spring gift ideas.
Our sweet sage potpourri from the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert has a
delightful, soft fragrance. A book, authored by a local resident,
containing a collection of potpourri recipes and the history of this art
is available. It might give you ideas about what to do with your
soon-to-be flowering garden blooms.
A much requested new arrival is the book entitled, "Healing With Plants
in American and Mexican West." It is interesting and will possibly
increase your awareness about your environment. The gift shop also
houses an assortment of butterfly and bird books to help you identify
your spring back yard visitors.
Another original gift idea is beautiful 50 year old cedar fencepost oil
candles and votive holders. You might want to shop early for Father's
Day presents. These are especially different.
From a northern Mexico artisan's colony come wonderful hand thrown
pots. They sport designs taken from 1920 antique rug patterns and are
beautifully fashioned.
A local jeweler has designed a small Pecos Bill charm, in sterling,
which will be arriving any minute. A charm for one's bracelet is always
an appreciated gift and what better way to share your very own Pecos
hero with a loved one?
Unusual framed mirrors and watercolors are available to decorate your
home, along with lamps, bowls and dishes. We still have a few antique
teapots that seem to be the collector's rage this decade.
Children's toys, books, and western wearing apparel are always a treat
for youngsters to receive for birthdays.
The museum always appreciates your business as the proceeds from the
Mesquite House benefit the museum. We hope to see you soon. We know you
are looking forward to the new cookbook that will be returning from the
publishers in a few weeks.
Do remember to include the Mesquite House Gallery and Gift Shop when
you need a unique idea.
Meyers Electric settles into new home
while entering third decade of service
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Meyer's Electric & Cabinet Co. is now in its 21st
year of serving Pecos and the surrounding community, having just moved
into a new location this past year.
The company, owned and operated by Harold & Lucille Meyers and their
son, Royce, originally started out mainly as an electrical business to
do work on residential wiring. In recent years, that work has been
expanded to include more commercial wiring.
After their start, it was decided to add cabinet building and
installation to their business.
They custom-build and install kitchen, bathroom cabinets and
entertainment centers, all of which can be either stained or painted.
they also handle Formica and Wilsonart plastic laminates.
Custom preformed counter tops can also be ordered to fit the needs of
the customer. A raised panel door machine and a 26" drum sander has been
purchased in recent years to keep up with trends.
After seeing a need to expand their business to have more room to
operate in, they decided to purchase a building at 2325 Toliver St.
After extensive remodeling of the building, it was opened during ribbon
cutting ceremonies Sept. 3, 1996.
The Meyers want to take this opportunity to thank their many customers
who have made their company a success over the years.
Gibson's planning to increase
hardware supply department
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Serving area residents for over three decades
now, Gibson's True Value Home Center, at 810 Walthall St., offers a
diverse stock for a variety of home needs.
"Jack Chenault and his wife and her brother started the business in
1965," said owner Larry Windham. "Her brother, Don Doan, was also a
partner in it. She bought him out in 1976, and in 1994 Mrs. Chenault
retired and I purchased the store from her."
Windham has been the long time manager of Gibson's, which originally
was affiliated with the chain of discount stores throughout Texas, but
became a True Value store back in 1985, while retaining the familiar
name.
"We plan to put more hardware items in the future," said Windham.
The store already carries plumbing and electrical supplies, along with
paint and tools, "those are our main components now," Windham added.
The store's camera center carries an assortment of film and offers
Express Delivery for regular prints. A person can take their film in
before noon and have their prints in the next day, according to a store
employee. Special orders take a little longer.
Hunting, camping and work equipment are also available at the Central
Pecos store, as are garden tools and supplies, household cleaning,
health and beauty products.
Windham's wife, Gloria, son, Keith, and daughter, Tammy, make up the
11-member staff. Others are: Manager Ysabel Lara, Paul Hernandez, Mandy
Sotelo, Delma Lozano, Lupe Herrera, Julie Garcia and Alice Lara.
Gibson's True Value Home Center is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.
to 6 p.m.
Pecos Insurance marking
50th anniversary Saturday
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - The Pecos Insurance Agency, Inc. celebrates 50
years of service to the Pecos community on Saturday, having been
licensed March 1, 1947, by Paul Dowling, W. H. Holcombe, and Archie
Scott.
The agency is presently owned and operated by Edward A. Daniel and Roy
Prewit. Both joined the agency in 1960. They are assisted by Mona
Mauldin, Rosemary Varela, Tina Trujillo, Karen Hornberger, and Matt
Metler.
Companies represented by Pecos Insurance Agency, Inc. are Trinity
Insurance Companies, American States Insurance, American Fidelity
Insurance Companies, Union Standard Insurance, The St. Paul Insurance
Company, Fidelity & Deposit, Western Surety, and Merchants Bonding
Company. They also represent other companies who provide all types of
special insurance.
This general insurance agency handles fire, auto, casualty and marine
insurance placement for both personal and commercial clients.
Crop hail and multi-peril insurance is available for farm customers,
and life insurance along with group health coverage with Blue Cross is
also offered
The Pecos Insurance Agency, Inc. staff wishes to thank its clientele
for their support and loyalty through its half-century of operation and
pledges the same dedication to the satisfaction of its customers now and
in the future.
City looking to solve
water, sewer problems
during upcoming year
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Water - how to get it and how to get rid of it -
are top priorities for the Town of Pecos City as it heads into a new
year.
Work continues on development of the South Worsham Field, and a study
is underway to determine whether additional wells should be drilled in
the Worsham field that has supplied much of the city's water over the
years.
How to get rid of used water is another problem that may require
purchase of a television camera that will travel underground.
Recent studies have shown collapsed sewer lines, said interim city
manager Harry Nagel.
By running a television camera into all main lines, the staff can
determine where breaks occur and what needs to be replaced.
"We will have to replace some lines," Nagel said. "I think we would be
better off buying our own equipment and selling it when we are through
with it."
City staff can operate the cameras after only two hours training, he
said.
Solid waste is being taken care of by Wes Tex Waste, who collects
refuse from dumpsters and alleyways and hauls it to Penwell.
Nagel said the city plans to close the Type I landfill that is lined to
prevent leakage of decaying garbage into the underground water table.
But to provide service to local residents, they will dig another unlined
trench that will accept Type IV debris only. That is primarily
construction debris, limbs and shingles.
"We want to dig the trench ourselves, so citizens won't have to pay
WesTex Waste to haul it. Now if you have a water bill you can dump in
the Type IV landfill for nothing."
One new fire truck was purchased last year, but Nagel said another is
needed, and the money is available to pay for it.
With one new ambulance purchased each of the last two years, the
volunteer ambulance service is in good shape.
Work done on the pound last year improved conditions for dogs and cats
that must be held for their owners.
No change was made in the parks department, Nagel said.
The council is working to hire a new city manager to lead the 80-plus
employees into the future.
Flying J plans restaurant remodeling
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Flying J Travel Plaza, at Interstate 20 and U.S.
Highway 285, is a favorite stopping place for truckers and local
residents, and continues to offer residents the lowest fuel prices in
the area.
General Manager Stephen Lawrence welcomes everyone who likes to visit
the plaza and take advantage of the high quality of gasoline and diesel
products, while adding changes are planned in the near future.
"We've added new menus at the restaurant (Thad's), and we should begin
doing remodeling to it within the next year," Lawrence said.
The local Flying J was one of the first in Texas, but others are being
added on all the time. Lawrence said there are currently 95 truck stops
located across the U.S., and the first one outside the country, in the
Canadian province of Quebec, is due to open this year.
Closer to home, Flying J is building another truck stop on I-20 in Tye,
west of Abilene. That will give the company a location about every 200
miles along the interstate in Texas, from Anthony to Texarkanna.
Flying J offers a full range of services to its customers such as
Thad's, its full-service restaurant, truckers' lounge, video game room
and convenience store with daily deli specials.
The plaza also offers shower facilities that have been called "the
cleanest on the interstate this side of the Mississippi." Other
facilities include a hair style shop, boot shine and laundry room.
The truck stop opened in September of 1988. The Flying J name comes
from the first name of the founder, Jay Call, and his love for
airplanes. He started the chain in the early 1960s when he opened his
first gasoline station in Willard, Utah.
The first Flying J travel plaza was completed in Ogden, Utah, in 1979.
In the early 1990s, Flying J entered into a partnership with Du Pont,
whose Conoco brand is now on the fuel pumps, both here in Pecos and at
virtually all locations across the country. Conoco, along with other
major bank credit cards, are accepted at Flying J, and the facility also
has an automatic teller machine for 24-hour cash access through credit
cards or bank ATM cards.
Industrial Communications in 45th year
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Industrial Communications has been offering a
variety of mobile phone and paging services to customers in Pecos and
the surrounding area for 45 years.
The company began operations in 1952, and co-owners Jim Blanchard and
Johnny Billeiter have run the business since 1966. They are assisted by
technician Randy Edwards, installer James Sharp and bookkeepers Lenora
Blanchard and Tanya Rodriguez.
Industrial Communications has car phones, two-way communications and
paging systems available for both personal and commercial use. The
company is a sales and service representative for both General Electric
and Motorola communications equipment.
"We are active in all communications areas the public would need,"
Rodriguez said. "If you want the newest and latest, we have it, or we'll
have the literature and prices."
Rodriguez said although the car phones the firm sells are not called
`cellular,' "They operate in the same way, but it's more of a
`high-tech' system.
"Normal cellular phones put out three watts maximum power, while our
car phones put out 12 to 15 watts," she said, adding that with other
cell systems from national companies, "Everything goes out-of-state.
Everything you buy here stays here."
In paging systems, Rodriguez said Industrial Communications "recently
installed a new beeping service that's digital-numeric. It offers
statewide service with only one local number."
She added that "We also have tone and voice and voice storage pagers
for the local area," as well as pagers which cover just the surrounding
region for less money than the statewide paging system costs.
Industrial Communications is located at 2203 W. Third St., and can be
reached at 445-5150. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8
a.m. to 5 p.m., though Rodriguez said "We do have somebody on call
24-hours a day for emergencies."
"We do a lot of work with the city and county, and we go out on calls
when their radios break down."
Pecos Nursing Home expands facility,
offering new equipment for residents
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Pecos Nursing Home is striving to provide better
quality care for their patients following their expansion, according to
supervisor Anita Rivera.
"The facility has been expanded to better accommodate our residents,"
said Rivera. "Our plans are so that we can provide better quality care
and also have an Alzheimer's Wing."
The expanded facility added 30 more beds and private bathrooms, a
larger kitchen and more office space. "With the new addition, it will
enable us to add an Alzheimer's wing and provide better quality care,"
she said.
The nursing home in 1995 had a "face-lift" with new furniture and
draperies, a part of the decor. "All the rooms were painted along with
the recreation area," said Rivera.
New bedspreads and living room furniture were also added to better
accommodate the residents.
Pecos Nursing Home is privately owned, and has been operated by Greg
Johns since 1977. It is a 90-bed facility with private and semi-private
rooms, and is located on Memorial Drive, just behind the Reeves County
Annex building.
Marci Rogers is the administrator with 81 employees in nursing, dietary
and housekeeping.
The facility has also recently acquired a whirlpool, to provide
whirlpool treatments for patients that need it.
"It's also associated with the retirement center for senior citizens,"
said Rivera.
Housekeeping personnel take care of all the laundry, cleaning,
maintenance and gardening.
Dietary personnel take care of cooking and dish washing, while a
dietary consultant helps with the menus.
The home also has a social activities director, along with volunteers
and a social activities consultant. They organize bingo, birthday
parties, holiday parties, picnics, exercise classes, senior citizens
luncheons, church services of various denominations, Spanish reading
Bible study, weekly movies and bus rides. Residents also enjoy arts and
crafts activities.
Residents are provided 24-hour nursing care with licensed personnel on
each shift. Services provided include medications, bedside care,
treatments such as respiratory therapy, oxygen, skin/wound care and
access to physical therapy.
Suctioning, catheterization, nasal gastric and gastric feedings, along
with insulin therapy and lab work are all a part of the nursing provided
the residents.
"We also give access to orthopedic surgeons, ophthalmologist, dentist,
optometrist and make doctor's office visits locally if a patient is able
to go," said Rivera.
A pharmacy consultant, a medical director, and three registered nurses
are available as consultants seven days a week to provide coverage.
The nursing home has four computers to help them with scheduling,
facilitate paperwork and provide more efficient nursing care.
Pecos Nursing Home also participates in a certified nurses aide program
established in the facility through the Texas Department of Health,
which the nursing home is qualified to have directly with the state.
The program was first initiated through Odessa College.
"We feel very lucky to participate in this program since not every
long-term care facility is able to qualify," said Rivera.
Bob's has new manager, services
Although manager for less than six months at Bob's Thriftway, Bobby
Torres has almost 19 years experience in meeting the public's grocery
needs.
Bob's has new manager, services
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Although manager for less than six months at
Bob's Thriftway, Bobby Torres has almost 19 years experience in meeting
the public's grocery needs.
As manager of the supermarket, located at 1800 S. Eddy St., Torres said
"there's been some big changes," as far as sales and competing with
other grocery stores go.
Torres said he's had no problems slipping into the manager's position,
"I was already doing a lot of the stuff I'm doing right now."
He said the store offers food and service "as good as anyone else."
"The main thing we strive for is customer service," he said, "The
customer is number one."
"We're not staying at a stand still," said Torres, noting the Western
Union service and video store that have been added to Bob's services.
He added that "we offer the same thing as the other store (La Tienda),"
referring to fresh baked goods and tortillas which are acquired from its
sister store every day. Before then, goods were brought in from
Carlsbad's La Tienda.
Torres said "we went through a lot of people," when the "changeover,"
first came about, referring to staff changes when Furrs', Pecos' other
major grocery store, was purchased by Bill and Joe Fenn, the owner of
Bob's Thriftway, in November of 1995.
He claimed all was done with the idea of improving customer service.
"We're getting there," he said regarding their meeting their service
goals.
"We strive for professionalism and experience," he said, adding that
training is offered.
"I feel we've got a good staff right now," said Torres.
"We're open to any suggestions," he said, advocating an open-door
policy.
Jasso takes experience at Socorro's
into operation of Terri's Restaurant
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Home-style meals with a friendly atmosphere are
what the new owner of Terri's Restaurant is hoping to offer their
customers.
"With the closing of Socorro's Restaurant, I was offered this
opportunity to embark on a new business," said owner Chon Jasso.
Jasso stated that this new opportunity offered him a chance to bring
his experience and qualifications to make Terri's Restaurant a unique
dining experience.
Many of the same dedicated employees have blended with the great help
already implemented at Quality Inn.
"We brought the same cooks that were employed at Socorro's to work here
and have up to three cooks at one time working on the different menus we
offer," said Jasso.
Together the crew have a combined cooking experience of over 50 years.
The restaurant will offer delicious steaks, T-bones, ribeyes and many
other American dishes.
"We'll be featuring a lot more American dishes along with our famous
authentic Mexican food," said Jasso. "Everything is made from scratch,"
he said.
Terri's will also offer a daily buffet with different food items
featured. One cook will be working on breakfast, while another will be
working on breakfast and still another on lunch items.
"We'll also have a salad and soup bar," said Jasso.
The buffet will be extra special on Sundays, with mouth-watering
home-cooked meals featured. This buffet will accommodate church-goers
and families.
"Even though the buffet will be seven days a week, on Sundays we will
make it extra special with special items such as roast beef, fried
chicken, mashed potatoes," said Jasso.
Hours for Terri's Restaurant are from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. Buffet will
be open from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
"If we still have customers here late at night we will stay open until
10 p.m. and the buffet will be kept open until we feel that our
customers have been properly accommodated," said Jasso.
Coffee clubs are welcome at Terri's Restaurant and breakfast specials
will soon be offered.
"We plan to do some remodeling on breakfast and provide a friendly
atmosphere where people can come in an enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee,"
said Jasso.
Other plans include to purchase another tortilla machine.
"We also cater parties, have a large banquet facility which is perfect
for parties," said Jasso.
"We're very pleased with our employees, they are doing a tremendous
job, even though we were off to a rocky start, we are smoothing out the
rough edges," said Jasso.
He also stated that even though a lot of construction is going on, he
urges customers to come on in.
"They're doing a great job on remodeling, it's going to be great," said
Jasso. "It's been really nice working with Andy and Sam Pattel," said
Jasso, who states that the hopes to continue the association for a long
time.
Orders to go are welcome and plans in the future may include delivery
to businesses during the lunch hour.
"We want to accommodate all our customers, so if there's a special dish
they would like, we will try to make it," he said.
Chips and salsa before a meal are still offered.
A seafood buffet is featured on Fridays, with catfish, scallops,
stuffed crab, shrimp, oysters and all the trimmings.
"We appreciate all the locals who have followed us to this new
location," said Jasso, who issued a special thanks to the Downtown Lions
Club members who meet weekly at the facility.
"We welcome other clubs to come and try the new atmosphere and our
delicious food," said Jasso.
Reverse osmosis water is utilized in everything from cooking to
drinking to provide a safer, cleaner and better tasting meals.
Even though the buffet is opened daily, customers can still order
anything off the menu.
"They don't have to eat the buffet only, they can order from the menu,"
said Jasso.
New menus will also be printed with all the facility has to offer.
"We want to make everyone welcome and urge them to come over," said
Jasso.
Pecos Funeral Home has long history
of serving community in time of need
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Since the early 1900s Pecos Funeral Home has been
serving area families "in their time of need."
Manager Pablo T. Carrasco said the local funeral home has been in
business "for a long time."
It first began operating under the ownership of the Anderson Family at
the corner of Fifth and Cypress and in 1962 relocated to its current
address, 607 W. Third St., when the home of a prominent ranch family,
the Rosses was renovated for the operation.
It was recently bought out by the Loewen Group of Family Funeral Homes,
whose headquarters is in Canada and Regional Office in Abilene.
Carrasco, Funeral Directors and embalmers, Jackie Harkey and Tony
Lujan, and most recently, Adam Arredondo, make up the funeral home staff.
"All the paperwork is done right here in this office," said Carrasco of
his function and station in the two-story building.
Pecos Funeral Home offers services that begin with the preparation of
the body to the burial.
The funeral home manager said either Harkey or Lujan are always present
for the preparation of a body and during all funeral services.
Personal beauticians are called in if requested, he added.
PFH staff work with family members to coordinate all the services and
even have a room filled with a selection of caskets that range in price
and intricacy.
The bottom floor of the building has two viewing rooms for family
members to spend with their loved one, and a chapel that sits 250 people
and is equipped with a family room.
The facilities are modern, Carrasco pointed out, the hearses are
immaculately kept and every funeral need is considered.
"We're on call 24 hours a day," said Carrasco, "and we honor all burial
insurances."
Pecos Funeral Home believes that everyone deserves a proper burial and
"nobody will be turned away," indicating that they offer payment plans
to fit any family's need.
"Everybody is treated fairly," and equally, he added.
Ortiz continues to expand
insurance business in area
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Marking his 20th anniversary in the insurance
business this year, local insurance agent Luz Ortiz and his wife Isa
continue to expand their business to better meet the public's needs.
The local agent acknowledges his many "loyal customers," who he said
stuck with him "no matter where we go. We really appreciate their
business."
Ortiz said he began with American National Insurance in 1977 and in
1984 went on with Employers Insurance of Texas.
"When that went under," he said, he opted to "go on my own," with his
wife in 1990, taking over the former EIT office in the corner of
Washington and Johnson Streets, carrying only Metropolitan Life.
In 1992 the couple dropped Metropolitan and began to expand their
business along with the services they offer to the public by
implementing other insurance groups such as: National Lloyd's,
Progressive and Northwestern.
Also policies through Dairyland and Foremost Insurance companies have
been available since the couple began their business, along with Viking
County Mutual.
Luz said he is able to monitor Dairyland activity, as his office is
connected to the company's mainframe computer in Austin. "We're looking
into to doing that with other companies," he added.
"We don't have Gerber Life anymore," said Luz, "but we're in the
process of adding Charter Insurance." He added that the carrier is
"pretty competitive with companies that carry the standard rates."
For the past three years, policies for life, fire, home, commercial,
auto, motorcycle, mobile homes and motor homes have been prepared for
customers at the Luz Ortiz Insurance Agency in Pecos, Monahans, Kermit,
Wickett, Grandfalls and the surrounding area.
Luz said he likes to assess a potential customer's situation before
advising them to sign up with his agency because, "I don't feel
comfortable," allowing them to cancel a policy they've had for a long
time.
"I like to see what's best for them," he said.
The couple enjoys using their business in promoting local events for
the community and said, "We enjoy being on our own."
Recently joining Career and Technology Education Office Administration
program with Pecos High School by hiring a part-time student, Veronica
Sauceda, Luz said "it's been working out great," and added he hopes to
continue with the program.
Sauceda seems to be enjoying her post at the insurance agency and said,
"We all get along."
Security Finance's business expands
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Security Finance manager Ana Varela said she and
the staff want to thank their customers for a great year.
"It has always been Security Finance's main concern to help the people
in Pecos and surrounding area with financial loans," Varela said.
Loans range from $100 to $400.
Security Finance is a successful and growing company. It has presently
expanded into 15 states. With 200 offices in Texas alone, the company's
goal is to have 600 offices nationwide.
"Security Finance is always looking into hiring individuals who are
interested in having a financial business career," Varela said. "We
provide on-the-job training."
Working with Varela are Aurora Franco and Gloria Aguilar. They provide
fast and friendly service, processing loans quickly.
"Phone applications are a great service that Security Finance
provides," Varela said.
Credit starter loans are offered to qualified applicants who have been
turned down for a loan because they have no credit history.
"Come by and let us help you start your credit," Varela said.
Oilfield Phone offering Internet
without long distance charges
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - Oilfield Phone Service is proud to be the
catalyst that brought local Internet access to Pecos.
Aligned with Bitstreet Internet, Oilfield offers 100 hours of Internet
access per month for a flat fee of $35. Users dial a local access
number, so no long-distance fees are added.
Jeannette Alligood, co-owner, said the $50 sign-up fee includes
software for one of the most popular Internet browsers, Netscape 2.0.
Other browsers can be used with the service, including Microsoft
Explorer, which comes packaged with the Windows 95 operating system
installed on most new computers.
Once connected to the Internet, the user has access to everything on
the World Wide Web, FTP, Gopher, Telnet and other Internet servers, plus
E-mail.
Electronic mail is the most economical way to communicate with other
computer users, because there is no long-distance charge nor postage
cost. And mail is placed in the recipient's mailbox until he or she is
ready to download and read it.
Alligood said that local technical support is also available, so no
long-distance charges are incurred if you have a problem with E-mail or
Internet access.
"We also offer expertise in Home Page design so you can advertise your
business on the World Wide Web," Alligood said.
And they can provide the server where the Home Page will reside,
register it with search engines and help to maintain it. Photos,
graphics and sound may be included on a site.
"Check with us for prices," said Alligood.
Oilfield Phone has been in business since 1981, providing telephone
service to remote areas in the oil patch or ranch homes. They are also
an authorized CellularOne agent, extending service to almost any
location on the road or in the brush.
"We sell all kinds of telephones, including cellular and business
systems," Alligood said. "We install, service and maintain them."
The local owners and staff invite everyone to visit their spacious
offices at 401 S. Cypress St.
Water Works serves homes, oilfield
PECOS, Feb. 27, 1997 - The Water Works offers a full line of water
treatment equipment for sale or rent.
Water softeners, bottled water coolers, counter top dispensers and
under sink reverse osmosis systems are stocked for immediate
installation. Salt delivery service is also available.
The company maintains an inventory of parts for repair of all equipment
it sells and many other brands as well. All eq~uipment can be rented on
a monthly basis or purchased outright.
Drinking water systems can usually be installed within 24 hours of your
order while water softeners usually require two days. Larger equipment
is also available for commercial clients.
The Water Works also offers clean soft water, or bulk R/O water hauling
to the oilfield. A clean 130 bbl transport is available for 24 hour
dispatch.
The Water Works has been operating in Pecos for some 50 years. It is
located at 819 S. Hackberry St., under the water tower and just north of
Eagle Stadium.
Employees are Daniel Jaramillo, Danny Fleming, Alex Portillo, Elfida
Howard, and Jim Ivy.
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_
Copyright 1997 by Pecos Enterprise
Division of Buckner News Alliance, Inc.
324 S. Cedar St., Pecos, TX 79772
Phone 915-445-5475, FAX 915-445-4321
e-mail news@bitstreet.com