Home Care In San Saba, TX

Here's how many people are behind on debt payments in San Saba County, Texas

Household debt reached a record $17.29 trillion in the third quarter of 2023, according to the New York Federal Reserve.

Excluding housing debt, the total was $4.8 trillion, up 6.4% from the same period a year earlier. Delinquencies of over 90 days have been rising steadily since 2021, although they are still at low levels by historical standards.

Stacker analyzed data from the think tank Urban Institute to find out where people are most likely to miss their debt payments. This data shows that excluding mortgages, 26% of American adults were significantly late on their debt payments in February 2022. The median debt in collections totaled $1,739, with unpaid medical bills being the most common.

The Urban Institute's numbers also show that nonwhite households tend to have much higher rates of default than white households and that households in less affluent counties tend to have higher debt default rates than wealthier ones.

Based on the think tank's data, Stacker estimates that a household living in a predominantly white county with an income of $150,000 has roughly a 13% chance of being seriously delinquent in its debt payments. In comparison, a household living in a predominantly nonwhite county with an income of $50,000 has a 47% chance of having debt in collections.

Academic research from the National Bureau of Economic Research published in 2019—using more granular data and sophisticated statistical techniques—found other factors, such as a borrower's credit history and total loan balances, matter a great deal, too.

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Debt in San Saba County by the numbers

30.4% of residents have debt in collections.-- owing a median amount of $2,189.00- 16.67% of residents have medical debt in collections- Data on student loans are unavailable- 3.39% of residents are at least 60 days delinquent on their car/retail loans- 5.15% of residents are delinquent on their credit card payments

This story features data reporting and writing by Wade Zhou and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 3,017 counties.

By Patrick McCullough, Senior Meteorologist NWS San Angelo, Texas

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As anyone who has lived or worked around the Hill County of Texas knows, the weather across the area can change rapidly from day to day. This is especially true in the spring, when all four seasons can seemingly pay a visit on any given day. San Saba County and the City of San Saba are no exception, which makes it difficult to plan for when it comes to the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8th. Although pinpointing the forecast will get easier as we get closer to the day of the eclipse, we can look back at previous years to get a feel for what the weather may or may not be for that day.

Cloud cover: The eclipse path crosses from Mexico north across Texas and stretches northeast into the Great Lakes region. But a look at cloud cover through the years on April 8th shows that the most likely area to see clear skies occurs from Mexico into Central Texas, with the likelihood for cloud cover increasing rapidly from the Central Plains into the Great Lakes.

Temperatures: Temperatures can vary wildly across the area in the month of April, with temperatures on April 8th ranging from 29 degrees for a morning low as observed in 2007, to an afternoon high of 90 degrees on April 8th 2006. The average high and low temperatures are somewhere in between with an average low of 48 degrees and an average high of 74 degrees. Warm to hot temperatures with highs climbing above the 90-degree mark are not rare and occur about 10% of the time.

San Saba Climatology for April 8th:

Average Low: 47.5

Coldest Low: 29 April 8th 2007

Warmest Low: 66 April 8th 2020

Average High: 74.2

Hottest High: 90 April 8th 2006

Coldest High: 33 April 8th 2007

Precipitation: Springtime in Texas can always be an adventure, and the climatology around the date of the eclipse reflects this. On April 7th and 8th of 2007, a winter storm produced significant amounts of ice and snow across portions of San Saba County including the City of San Saba. On the opposite side, severe thunderstorms producing quarter size hail (1.00 inch) occurred as recently as 2021. With what may be a large number of people camping outside for the eclipse, lightning is a major weather safety concern. The climatology shows about a 16% chance of lightning for April 8th, but when considering the period from April 5th-April 10th when people may be camping outdoors, the chance for lightning at some point during that period increases to near 70%!

When it rains, it can really rain across the area. A look through the weather records show that it rains on about 10% of the days around the date of the eclipse. The heaviest rain fell in 2005 on April 6th when 1.64 inches of rain was recorded.

Weather Safety Concerns: As already mentioned, the possibility of lightning and severe thunderstorms with large hail and damaging winds are always a concern. These storms can also produce very heavy rainfall, enough to cause swiftly flowing flood waters of creeks and streams across the area. Strong winds following cold fronts that move through the region can easily produce 40 to 50 mph winds. These winds would be capable of blowing over tents and perhaps even campers that may not be anchored to withstand these winds. Finally, given the temperature extremes possible from below freezing and the chance of ice to hot afternoon temperatures near 90 degrees, we cannot forget to think about things such as hypothermia and heat exhaustion as well as dehydration.

The best way to remain safe is to have multiple ways of receiving hazardous weather watches and warnings from the National Weather Service. NOAA Weather Radio, local radio and tv stations, and weather alerts on your cell phone and mobile devices are several ways to get these alerts.

The local National Weather Service office here in San Angelo, will be able to provide a better idea of the weather expected for the day of the eclipse about 10 to 14 days in advance, although that outlook will be more about trends and general patterns. More specific forecasts will be available seven days in advance with the accuracy and timing becoming more certain as we approach April 8th.

There is a time for everything. Sometimes, one seeks the cultural attractions of big Texas cities like Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio. Other times, the charm of a smaller, more intimate town calls. Beyond the well-known destinations of Fredericksburg, Galveston, and Corpus Christi, Texas is home to many unique towns with their own special allure. For those looking to explore the road less traveled and discover distinctive locales, here are 9 offbeat towns in Texas worth visiting.

More in TexasThese 7 towns in Texas have the best main streets.

Muenster

Muenster offers a deep dive into Texas's German heritage, perhaps more so than any other town in the state. Visitors are immediately greeted with enchanting German-style architecture. Located in northern Texas, Muenster was established in the late 1800s by German Catholic immigrants. It's one of the few towns in the United States that still celebrates its German roots with fervor. Every spring, the town hosts Germanfest, a major celebration in North Texas, at the picturesque Heritage Park. Golf enthusiasts will find Turtle Hill north of the town an excellent venue, while 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery provides a unique spot for brunch with stunning views of the Red River.

Goliad

While the Alamo Mission in San Antonio is a well-trodden historic site, the Battle of Goliad, equally pivotal for Texas's independence, offers a quieter but no less significant experience. Goliad is home to Presidio La Bahia, a superbly preserved example of a Spanish frontier fort, marking an important chapter in Texas history. The town also boasts one of Texas's most beautiful and well-preserved historic courthouses. Notable sites include Mission Espiritu Santo, established in 1749, the ruins of Mission Rosario, and the Fannin Memorial Monument, honoring a notable figure in the Texas Revolution.

Rocksprings

Rocksprings stands out for its proximity to one of Texas's most remarkable natural wonders, Devil's Sinkhole State Natural Area. This site is renowned for housing one of the largest colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats, a spectacular sight as they emerge from the state's largest known single-room cave. The Historic Rocksprings Hotel offers a unique stay, positioned at one of the highest points of the Edwards Plateau, while Kingburger serves up delectable Mexican cuisine, rounding off the offbeat experiences available in Rocksprings.

San Saba

San Saba, a charming town with a restored historic center, is home to about 3,200 residents. It is located in central Texas, along the northern edge of the Edwards Plateau, offering a distinct feeling of being worlds away from the hustle and bustle of big-city life, despite being less than two hours' drive from Austin. Renowned as the Pecan Capital of the World, San Saba boasts the Mother Pecan Tree just east of the city, known for producing more important pecan varieties than any other tree worldwide. The town features numerous restaurants, including the Pecan House Grill, celebrated as one of Texas Hill Country's best-kept secrets. For a quick breakfast, Larry’s Corner Cafe is the go-to spot. San Saba also offers proximity to Colorado Bend State Park, a stunning natural treasure of the state.

Vidor

Vidor's history as a former Ku Klux Klan stronghold is a somber aspect of its past, with historical accounts detailing the presence of multiple Klan factions. Today, it's important to approach the town's history with sensitivity and acknowledge the efforts towards change and inclusivity. Vidor offers natural attractions and community parks, such as Claiborne West Park and the Lions Club Veteran Memorial Park, which provide peaceful settings for relaxation and reflection. For dining, Rikenjaks is noted for its selection of craft beers and delicious nachos, contributing to the town's offerings beyond its historical context.

Pittsburg

Pittsburg is notable for housing the Northeast Texas Rural Heritage Museum and the full-scale replica of the Ezekiel Airship, which is claimed to have flown a year before the Wright Brothers' famous flight. This makes Pittsburg an intriguing visit for those interested in aviation history. Additionally, the Witness Park and Prayer Tower offers a serene environment featuring a bronze statue of Jesus washing Peter's feet and a tower adorned with stunning stained-glass windows. Efurd Orchards is a must-visit for those seeking fresh peaches or homemade ice cream, adding to the town's charm.

Jefferson

Jefferson, dubbed the official Bigfoot Capital of Texas, intrigues visitors with its rich history and the possibility of encountering Bigfoot, particularly in the area known as "the Bigfoot Alley." As a former major riverport pre-dating the Civil War, Jefferson's downtown area is ideal for exploring through its Historic Walking Tour, offering a glimpse into the town's storied past. The Jefferson Historic Museum presents engaging exhibits on the town's history and culture, while the town's truss bridge represents a significant development in all-metal truss construction, making it an interesting sight for visitors.

Paris

Paris, Texas, may not have the grandeur of its European counterpart with over 50,000 street lights, sweeping boulevards, or sparkling fountains, but it still offers attractions that make a visit rewarding. One feature Paris shares with its namesake is an Eiffel Tower replica, albeit a smaller one at 65 feet tall, uniquely adorned with a large red cowboy hat. For fishing enthusiasts, Pat Mayse Lake in the Pat Mayse Lake Recreation Area is an ideal spot for white bass. Additionally, the town is known for hosting the Tour de Paris in July, a cycling event that ranks among the largest in the state and features the Pump Track Paris, one of the largest asphalt pump tracks in the United States.

Uncertain

The town of Uncertain boasts a name as intriguing as its origins. According to the Texas State Historical Association, one explanation for the town’s name references the challenges steamboat captains faced when docking their vessels there. Another suggests the name stemmed from the residents' uncertainty about their citizenship before the boundary between the United States and the Republic of Texas was clearly defined. Amidst various theories, Uncertain is nestled along the shores of Caddo Lake, Texas's only natural lake. Visitors can explore this scenic waterbody through Johnson's Ranch Marina, the state’s oldest inland marina, or wander through Caddo Lake State Park, which boasts the world's largest cypress forest.

The Takeaway

Texas's vast landscape, covering an astounding 268,596 square miles — roughly the combined size of France and Switzerland — is dotted with countless towns, each offering unique attractions. While destinations like Fredericksburg are renowned for their access to popular state attractions, there's a special charm in exploring the less crowded, more unusual locales. For those drawn to the path less traveled, towns like Muenster, Goliad, Rocksprings, and San Saba offer exceptional experiences. However, Vidor's mention as "possibly the creepiest town in Texas" due to its historical context requires a sensitive approach, acknowledging its complex history while recognizing the broader spectrum of attractions and experiences available in Texas's offbeat towns.

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The sheep dog trials are returning to San Saba! The Texas Sheep Dog Association was founded in San Saba way back in 1963. Competitive trials are held all across the USA and Canada, and Texas is known as a tough proving ground for working border collies. Texas has also produced some of the very competitive sheep dog handlers . . . several of the USA’s World Trial competitors are from Texas!

But what is a sheep dog trial? Well, a handler-dog team will work together to move a group of sheep through an obstacle course. The handler sends the dog from the handlers’ post, and while the handler remains at the post, the dog is sent to retrieve sheep that have been set out over 400 yards away. The handler will communicate to the dog with whistles, and will maneuver the dog to steer the sheep down the field through a set of gates, to the post, around the post, and then through an obstacle course consisting of gates and a pen. There is also a maneuver in a marked circle on the ground (that is called a “shed”) where the handler leaves the post and joins the dog to work together to separate the sheep and hold them apart. The course has a time limit that starts when the handler sends the dog from the post.

Each team starts with all the points available, but a skilled judge is watching each part of the course and is deducting points for “mistakes” such as crooked lines between obstacles, missing a gate, circling the pen, missing the shed, etc. Neither the dog or the handler is permitted to touch the sheep. If a sheep challenges a dog and charges, the judge will usually permit a clean single nip to the sheep’s nose with an immediate release. Any other gripping by the dog is an immediate disqualification.

The San Saba Reunion Sheep Dog Trial will have two judges. Mr. Arwyn Davies is coming over from Wales in the UK, to judge the Open and the Nursery classes. Ms. Alison Holmes is from Sanderson, Texas, and will be judging the Open Ranch class.

Kim and Regan Kirk are hosting the TSDA San Saba Reunion Sheep Dog Trial at their ranch located at 510 TX-16. Banners are up at the gate entrance on the highway. Competition starts on Wednesday, February 28, and runs through Sunday, March 3. The runs will start each day at 730 a.m. and run most of the day, usually ending between 4 and 6 p.m. Spectators are welcome. Bring your lawn chairs and dress for the weather. Please leave your pet dogs at home. Admission is FREE! There will be light refreshments available and donation proceeds will benefit local 4H and FFA scholarships. TSDA is excited to be returning to its roots in San Saba, and we hope to see you all there!

My name is Breck McCoury. I am 16 years old, in the 11th grade and live in San Saba, Texas. I am the daughter of Waylon and Sarah McCoury. I am extremely passionate about Barrel Racing and my horses. I want to get my degree in Agricultural Business and see where that takes me. I look forward to representing the Lometa Lions Club as their 2024 Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Queen.

My name is Kenli Roberson and I'm a junior at Huckabay High School. I'm involved in FFA and Erath County 4H. I'm a member of the FFA and 4H horse judging teams. I show market goats and breeding does. I enjoy clipping, fitting my goats, and helping the younger show kids. I served as an ambassador, junior board member, this past year on the first Erath County Junior Livestock Board. Horses have been a big part of my life, teaching me many lessons and being there for me, they are great therapy. I enjoy running barrels and riding my horse at home. I'm an Erath County Riding Club and Region 10 Rodeo member. During the summer, I go to FFA rodeos around me. My future plans are to attend college, TSU or OSU, to major in animal science. I also have plans to become certified in PEMF Therapy to help horses and show animals. I have attended the Diamondback Jubilee since I was small because my mom is from Lometa. I also spend a lot of time in Lometa with my family. I'm excited to be running for Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Queen.

My name is Kylie Wyatt. I am a Sophomore at Lampasas High School, and the daughter of Henry and Ann Wyatt. I am an active member in FFA rasing my own show rabbits, and competing in horse judging. I also compete in several barrel racing associations, and am heading to the World Barrel Racing finals in Oklahoma in April. I volunteer at the Animal House Hotel where I make sure all pets are comfortable during their stay, and assist in pet grooming. I am currently taking college courses and looking into different colleges to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner. I love being able to represent our small town rodeo world. I look forward to representing the Lometa Lions Club as the 2024 Miss Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Queen.

Allie Rein Urich, 2023 Diamondback Jubilee Princess. Daughter of Chris and Jen Urich. Allie is 11 years old and has been riding since age three. Allie is in the fifth grade at Florence Elementary School. Allie loves to sing and will be performing with Florence Honor Choir in New York at Carnegie Hall later this year. Her rodeo life consists of Barrel races, Playdays, Ropings and Ranch Rodeos almost every weekend while she chases her dream of being the PRCA Rookie of the Year. When not at school or riding horses, Allie enjoys playing fast-pitch softball, fishing and playing with her friends. Allie plans to become a large animal vet when she grows up. This spring, Allie has enjoyed raising “Buttercup” a bottle calf. Allie is truly looking forward to the opportunity of representing Lometa as your 2024 Diamondback Jubilee Duchess.

My name is Harper Reata Evans. I am in 6th grade at Goldthwaite Middle School. Although I am a Mills County kid now, I grew up in Lometa as a Hornet. I am competing for the title of Duchess. The Diamondback Jubilee is my hometown rodeo. I have a huge love for my horses. I compete in rodeo; I run barrels, tie goats, and breakaway rope. My goals include making it to the NFR in barrels and breakaway roping. My heroes are Jackie Crawford and Brittany Pozzi-Tonozzi. I look forward to representing Lometa Lions Club as their 2024 Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Duchess.

My name is Aveigh Galbreath. I am 12 years old, in the 6th grade and live in Llano, Texas. I am the daughter of Morgan Gilger and Brooke Galbreath. I love the sport of Rodeo, running barrels, poles, ribbon roping and all things horses. I love playing basketball, running cross country, and cheerleading. I want to own and work at an Equine Rehabilitation center when I grow up. I look forward to representing Lometa Lions Club as the 2024 Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Duchess.

Mesa Hammond is very excited about the opportunity to compete for the Little Miss Diamondback Jubilee Rodeo Princess! Mesa is the daughter of Sean and Natalie Hammond of Lampasas County, and she is an avid and dedicated barrel racer. She takes horses and riding very seriously, works hard and has many lofty goals for the upcoming year! She would absolutely love to represent Lometa and the Lion’s Club, and is ready and willing to put forth all of the effort that the title will hold.

Peyton Head is the nine-year-old daughter of Derrick and Jessica Head, from Center City, Texas. Peyton is a 4th grader at Goldthwaite Elementary and loves her community. She is involved in rodeo, softball, basketball, theatre, showing livestock and loves attending church. Peyton hopes to work in the equine industry when she grows up. She is thankful for the opportunity to run for Lometa Diamondback Jubilee Princess with the help of her horse Iceman and appreciates her family and friends who support her!

My Name is Korie McCoury, daughter of Waylon and Sarah McCoury. I am nine years old. I enjoy riding Badger, loving on any animal I can get my hands on, fishing and a little bit of hunting. When I grow up I want to be a professional barrel racer. Korie looks forward to representing the Lometa Lions Club.