• Space Morphers^™: Kids build a DIY rocket and launch an epic mission to transform a new planet's atmosphere, terrain and ecosystem. After a high-energy Rover Race to collect samples and data, they grow dazzling crystal trees and hatch a mysterious animal egg in a Space Lab.

• Make Waves^™: Campers ride the waves of entrepreneurship and invention! Inspired by a surfer's journey, they create prototypes, pitch their innovative products to hook investors and build a billboard boat to set sail and "make waves" in the market.

• Fur-ensics^™: Kids sharpen their animal detective skills with Cap E. Bara and a fleet of robotic capybaras. They investigate a trail of footprints, collect bits of fluffy fur and examine suspicious splatters before forensically analyzing evidence that has a surprising twist.
   
• The Infringers^™: Campers use their invention superpowers to solve challenges in their community and around the world. They miniaturize top-secret innovations, safeguard their designs using cryptography and protect their intellectual property from the Infringers.

"I love that this camp lets my kids step out of the usual roles that they have at home and in school, and explore different parts of themselves," said the parent of 2025 Camp Invention campers. "At camp my son learns to be more creative and my daughter learns to be more independent."

All local Camp Invention programs are facilitated and taught by qualified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 147,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,600 schools and districts across the nation. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.

The charges against Taylor stem from his arrest for stalking his former spouse and her fiancé in late 2024. After Taylor’s arrest, an officer with the Burnet Police Department seized his cell phone in order to obtain evidence to support the stalking accusations.  A forensic analysis of Taylor’s cell phone revealed evidence of stalking, but also uncovered more than 500 images of child pornography.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Alicia Willoughby and Peter Keim on behalf of the District Attorney’s Office.

District Attorney Perry Thomas complimented the work of the Burnet Police Department and stated, “I appreciate the joint efforts of law enforcement and the District Attorney’s office to keep offenders like this out of our community.”

Dlugach spent decades in broadcasting, including a long career as a sports producer at KPIX in San Francisco before returning to Texas in retirement. It was then that he embraced what he often described as his dream role — calling play-by-play for the Llano Yellow Jackets and writing sports stories for local publications, where his enthusiasm and passion for athletics quickly made him a fixture in the community. 

In January, Dlugach suffered a medical emergency after collapsing at an H-E-B in Burnet and was transported to Baylor Scott & White, where he began a gradual recovery. After two weeks, he was transferred to Llano Regional Hospital for physical therapy. As his needs increased, it was determined that he required around-the-clock memory care, and he later moved to Long Leaf in Bee Cave. He had been there only a few weeks when he passed away on March 26.

To many in Llano, Dlugach was more than a broadcaster — he was a familiar, reassuring presence who brought Friday night lights and Yellow Jacket athletics to life. He took pride in knowing the athletes, learning their stories, and connecting with their families. Friends say he had an uncanny ability to remember everyone he met, and his genuine interest in people made him as beloved off the air as he was behind the microphone.

Those who worked with him often noted that his passion for sports never faded. Whether calling a game, writing a column, or visiting with players, he approached every moment with enthusiasm and dedication. Simply put, few loved what they did more than Art Dlugach.

Services will be held April 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Llano High School Auditorium. The community is encouraged to attend. 

Her musical journey is as eclectic and vibrant as her soulful voice. Throughout, she has stayed true to herself and her vision as an artist, signing with independent label Blue Corn Music to release seven albums. She has also released three live albums. Her latest album, Mileage, released on the legendary Sun Records, won Best Contemporary Blues Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards. With soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and an unwavering commitment to her craft, Ruthie continues to carve out a path that is uniquely her own – inspiring audiences and fellow musicians alike.

 Tickets for the concert are $25 per person if purchased in advance at theodeontheater.com and $30 (cash only) at the door. Students 18 and under can purchase tickets for $10 at the door, if seats are available. For additional concert information and questions regarding reservations, email concerts@theodeontheater.com. Wine will be available for purchase by the bottle and glass from Murphy Creek Cellars. 

Other upcoming concerts at the Odeon include Susan Gibson on May 9, Aaron Stephens on June 13, Honey & The Hillbillies on July 18, Katie Shore on August 15, Bob Schneider on October 10, and Ordinary Elephant on November 7. Advance tickets may be purchased online at theodeontheater.com. The Odeon Theater is located on the square in Mason, Texas. The theater is owned and operated by the 501(c) (3) non-profit Odeon Preservation Association.

These reptiles become more active as they emerge from brumation — a state similar to hibernation in mammals. While encounters may increase this time of year, understanding snake behavior and following a few simple safety tips can help reduce fear and lower the risk of a bite.

Experts from the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences share five essential tips to help you stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.

Tip 1: Stay aware of your surroundings

In Texas, snakes often begin appearing in search of food and shelter in February and March as temperatures warm.

“The best way to avoid snake bites is to be aware of your surroundings and recognize the scenarios that lead to them,” said Toby Hibbitts, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology. “If you spot one, the best thing to do is leave it alone and let it go its way.”

Hibbitts, also a research scientist with the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, NRI, said snakes are ectothermic, or cold-blooded, meaning they rely on outside temperatures to regulate their body heat. Early in spring, they are commonly seen sunning on rocks and logs, but as temperatures rise, they become more active at night or in the twilight hours.

He recommends wearing closed-toe shoes and carrying a flashlight when walking outside at night to avoid surprising a snake and reduce the risk of getting bitten.

Tip 2: Learn how to identify snakes in your area

Texas is home to roughly 75 snake species, but only about a dozen are venomous.

“If you know which of these snakes live in your area, then it may ease your fears and increase appreciation for your ecosystem,” said Danielle Walkup, Ph.D., NRI research assistant professor in the Texas A&M Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management.

Common nonvenomous species found in Texas include:

• Garter snakes, often referred to as garden snakes.
• Rat snakes, also known as chicken snakes.
• Bull snakes.

Common venomous snakes in Texas include:

• Copperheads.
• Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins.
• Coral snakes.
• Several rattlesnake species, including western diamondback and timber rattlesnakes.

Many Texas rattlesnake species are in the Trans-Pecos region, in the far western part of the state.

Tip 3: Make the area around your home less inviting to snakes

Hibbitts said no chemical repellants have been proven to deter snakes. However, you can make your yard less attractive to snakes with simple maintenance.

To discourage snakes from visiting your yard:

• Keep grass short and trim overgrown vegetation.
• Remove woodpiles, debris and clutter where they could hide.
• Control rodents and insects, which attract snakes looking for food.

Some species, like rat snakes, seek food in chicken coops, barns or outdoor sheds. Securing these structures can help keep snakes out.

Tip 4: Ignore the myths and appreciate snake benefits

Walkup said snakes are not naturally aggressive and prefer to avoid humans.

“You may periodically hear stories about a snake ‘chasing’ someone, but in reality it is most likely trying to flee,” Walkup said. “The person may just be standing in the way of its closest cover.” 

Snakes also play an important role in nature by helping control insects and small mammals. Understanding these benefits can help reduce fear and encourage people to leave them alone.

Tip 5: Understand snake habitats and behaviors to protect you and your pets

Hibbitts noted that learning where venomous snakes typically live can help you watch out for them to prevent close encounters.

Examples of where venomous snakes are commonly found:

• Copperheads often blend into leaf litter and can be found in woodlands and grasslands.
• Cottonmouths are usually found near water, such as creeks, ponds and springs.

Pet owners should also take precautions to reduce the chance of their pets encountering a snake, such as keeping them on a leash during walks.

Snakes typically bite only as a last resort when they feel threatened. Even when venomous snakes bite people, about half of those venomous bites are “dry,” according to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. A dry bite means no venom was injected, as snakes often conserve their venom for prey.

Despite this fact, Hibbitts emphasized that all bites should be taken seriously. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately, especially if the species is unknown.

Need local, expert advice?

Speak with an AgriLife Extension agent about relevant resources and programs tailored for your county.

Historians generally trace one popular theory to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1582. When Pope Gregory XIII introduced the new calendar, New Year’s Day shifted from late March to January 1. In places like France, some people either didn’t hear about the change or simply refused to accept it. Those who continued celebrating the new year around April 1 became targets of jokes and were dubbed “April fools.” 

The origins of April Fools’ Day may also trace back to ancient spring festivals. The Roman celebration of Hilaria featured disguises, games, and general merriment - traditions that still resonate in today’s pranks. In France, the holiday became known as Poisson d’Avril, or “April Fish,” where people would secretly pin paper fish to each other’s backs. In Scotland, Gowkie Day (from “gowk,” meaning fool) was celebrated with tricks on the unsuspecting. The first documented mention of April Fools’ Day comes from a 1561 poem by Flemish writer Eduard de Dene, which describes a nobleman sending his servant on pointless errands, highlighting the idea of “fool’s errands.” By 1686 in Britain, the day was called “Fooles holy day,” with recorded pranks including tricking people into attending fictitious events, such as “washing the lions” at the Tower of London.

Regardless of its exact origins, April Fools’ Day has become a lighthearted tradition centered on humor, especially the kind families can enjoy together. When practiced in good-nature, the day offers a chance to share a laugh and break up the fast-paced routine of early spring. However, pranks that go too far or cause embarrassment, fear or damage can undermine that spirit, turning fun into frustration. The best April Fools’ jokes are the ones where everyone - including the target - can smile in the end. 

Switch the cereal

Pour a different cereal into the box, or replace it with popcorn. Morning confusion guaranteed.

Is this thing on?
Quietly remove the batteries from the TV remote. When someone tries to turn on the television and nothing happens, confusion (and giggles) ensue. Be sure to reveal the missing batteries quickly so the joke doesn’t become frustrating.

Googly eyes takeover
Stick googly eyes on everything in the fridge. Suddenly the ketchup bottle is watching you.

Fake bug surprise
Place a plastic bug inside a water glass or near a toothbrush. Keep it mild and avoid small children or anyone who scares easily.

Celebrity Photo Swap

The night before April Fools’ Day, quietly replace your framed family photos with pictures of your favorite celebrities. When everyone notices, it’s sure to get laughs.

Sticky Note Hug
Give your child or partner a hug in the morning and discreetly stick a note to their back that reads, “I dance for applause.” They are bound to be confused when people begin clapping for them. 

Fake emergencies
Pretending someone is hurt, sick, or in danger can cause panic and is never funny.

Messy or destructive pranks
Spilling food, shaving cream, or glitter everywhere may create more cleanup than laughs.

Scary surprises
Fake spiders, snakes, or jumpscare-style pranks can frighten young children or anyone with a phobia.

Embarrassing public pranks
Doing something to humiliate someone in front of friends, coworkers, or neighbors crosses the line.

Hiding or damaging personal items
Locking someone out, taking their phone, or breaking possessions can cause real stress and frustration.

False bad news
Announcing serious life events (job loss, illness, broken items) as a joke can deeply hurt someone emotionally.

Tech sabotage that frustrates
Deleting files, changing passwords, or tampering with electronics may cause confusion that lasts far beyond April 1.

Precinct 2 Commissioner Linda Raschke announced the upcoming countywide collection event scheduled for April 11 at NexWaste Recon Services, located at 1200 Roselea Dr. in Buchanan Dam. The limited event will accept bulk items and tires only. 

The City of Llano Spring Residential Bulk Pickup Day will take place on Saturday, April 4. Items must be on the curb no later than 7:00 a.m. and may not exceed 4 cubic yards of acceptable material. Unacceptable items include gasoline, motor oil, paint, chemicals, animal waste, tires, batteries and construction materials. 

The court voted to reinstate the countywide burn ban due to an extreme fire danger forecast. Four area fire departments were polled and were split on the recommendation, but commissioners ultimately opted to put the ban on.

Carrie Pickering from Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson reported that Llano County received $5,448 in tax sale excess proceeds. These funds are generated when property sold at a tax foreclosure auction brings in more than the delinquent taxes owed. After distributions to taxing entities, remaining funds revert to the county. As part of the distribution, the City of Horseshoe Bay received $5,478, Horseshoe Bay ESD No. 1 received $320.47, Llano County Road and Bridge received $640.93, and Llano Independent School District received $20,159.80. The county’s share will be placed in the general fund.

Commissioners also heard an introduction from San Antonio-based tourism marketing firm Phlox Partners, founded by Maggie McMahon and Natalie Stone Tate. The firm will provide tourism marketing services, including rebuilding the county’s website, creating official Llano County social media accounts, managing email marketing campaigns and handling public relations. The team faces a tight timeline to establish an online presence ahead of upcoming spring events. Following the presentation, McMahon and Tate held additional meetings with the Chambers of Commerce in Llano, Kingsland and Buchanan. They are expected to begin meeting with Llano County business owners to gain feedback for their overall marketing strategy. 

Judge Hardy read a proclamation designating April 2026 as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. According to the Hill Country Child Advocacy Center (HCCAC), 25 children in Llano County were identified as victims of abuse or neglect in 2025, and 126 Llano County children were interviewed regarding abuse allegations. Thirteen open court cases currently involve 19 local children. The proclamation encourages residents to show support by wearing blue April 8. A community event is planned that afternoon on the Llano Courthouse Square.

Commissioners accepted a $25,000 annual donation to the Llano County Sheriff’s Donation Fund from the White Family Foundation.

The court approved $200 to implement registration tags required under Texas Health and Safety Code Section 822.027. The state mandate requires counties to tag and track dogs deemed dangerous by a justice of the peace. Dog owners must pay a $50 registration fee, complete paperwork and attach the tag to the dog’s collar. First Assistant County Attorney Matt Reinstra noted the program is intended to identify repeat incidents involving dangerous animals. The initial funding will cover starter supplies of tags and documentation until fees are collected.

Commissioners also approved adding a Texas Association of Counties County Information Resource Agency (TAC CIRA) agenda manager tool to the county’s migration package. The tool will provide a faster method for publishing meeting information and materials. The cost includes a $900 setup fee and $1,850 annually. Hardy said the addition would enhance transparency.

Hardy was appointed to the Capital Area Council of Governments General Assembly to be considered for the CAPCOG Executive Committee. He was also appointed to the Capital Area Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CARTPO) committee, filling seats previously held by former judge Ron Cunningham.

With no replats and no executive session required, the court adjourned at 9:43 a.m.

Retail eggs averaged $2.50 per dozen in the latest Consumer Price Index report, down 58% from a year ago and at their lowest point since late 2023, said David Anderson, Ph.D., professor and AgriLife Extension economist in the Texas A&M Department of Agricultural Economics.

Wholesale prices experienced an even more dramatic correction. Large Grade A eggs that sold for more than $8 per dozen last winter dipped below $1 earlier this year before ticking upward ahead of Easter demand.

The movement reflects both increasing supplies and consumer reactions to last year’s unusually high prices, Anderson said.

“Egg prices have ticked up a little with Easter around the corner and the expectation for that seasonal demand — the Easter egg hunts and baking, deviled eggs and that sort of traditional use around the holiday,” Anderson said. “But shoppers will definitely notice prices are lower than last year.”

More laying hens means lower egg prices  

The primary driver behind lower prices is straightforward: more birds equals more eggs, said Greg Archer, Ph.D., associate professor and AgriLife Extension poultry specialist in the Department of Poultry Science.

Last year, Archer said, outbreaks of avian influenza that wiped out significant numbers of laying hens weighed on overall capacity nationwide and sent prices soaring.

Fewer and smaller outbreaks this winter allowed producers more time to rebuild.

U.S. table‑egg layer numbers rose from 292 million last March to about 308 million this year, marking a solid rebound after HPAI pushed the national flock to unprecedented lows in 2025.

“We have more birds compared to last year because producers around the country haven’t been hit as hard by HPAI,” Archer said. “There are a lot of eggs out there, and demand backed off some when prices were really high.”

Egg production still at risk from HPAI

Anderson said falling feed costs also helped the industry regain stability, though rising prices for soybean meal, corn and fertilizer tied to global geopolitical tensions could raise production costs later in the year. For now, eggs remain one of the most affordable protein options as beef prices continue to rise.

“High prices can change what we buy as consumers,” Anderson said. “But demand remained relatively strong, and those high prices signaled for more production, and prices fell as supplies increased.”

Archer said the industry has built in additional flock capacity to buffer against the uncertainty of future outbreaks. But the spring migration of wild waterfowl presents a heightened risk for the poultry industry. A recent HPAI case in Texas struck broiler houses, but Texas layer facilities have avoided outbreaks thus far.

HPAI will remain a concern for Texas producers until migratory waterfowl, the primary carriers of the virus, return north.

With Easter demand already lifting wholesale values from winter lows, he said any production disruptions or renewed disease pressure could quickly reshape the market in the months ahead.

“We should enjoy the prices right now,” Archer said. “Producers and the industry are focused on biosecurity, but if we see significant outbreaks around the country, we can expect to see prices increase.”

“Ever since I was a young kid, I've always wanted to play baseball at the next level, no matter where it was,” he said. “Putting all the work and stuff, especially these past four years in high school, I was like, ‘I can't not go play at the next level.’”

McMurry offered Humphries as a pitcher and a friend of his has been telling him about his positive experience there. 

“I was trying to get to other places and then I was like ‘you know, I’ve been offered the perfect fit,’” he said. “I really like Abilene and just having a couple of people I know down there helps me a lot and makes this choice really easy.”

Humphries has left his mark in the Llano athletic department.

As a pitcher, he is 9-6 in 22 appearances. He has allowed 51 earned runs off 83 hits and 61 walks with 133 strikeouts, a three-year fielding percentage of .792, and a batting average of .321 with 50 hits and 37 RBI. 

Those numbers will get better as the 2026 season continues to unfold. 

In football, he is the reigning District 13-3A Division I Most Valuable Player and fits the definition of the award as he made plays as a receiver, a defensive back and a special teams returner. 

As a receiver, he had 30 receptions for 434 yards, a 14.5 average per catch, and five touchdowns. As a defensive back, he made 106 tackles, had 11 pass deflections, caught five interceptions and recovered two fumbles. As a kick returner, he had an average of 16.4 yards per return and scored when the Jackets needed a game-turning touchdown.

Humphries also took care of business in the classroom and is ranked in the top five of his class. He was accepted into the prestigious McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, which takes no more than 11 percent of applicants. 

“It was pretty hard at the start,” he said when reflecting back on his decision to either attend Texas or go play baseball at McMurry. “For the first couple of days I needed to really think about it. When I first found out, I went and talked to my dad. I was like ‘what do you think I should do?’ And he said he's going to be proud of me no matter what, and I think that made it really easy. I have always wanted to play baseball and getting into McCombs was amazing, but it just didn't change my mind. When I was four years old and right when I picked up the baseball for the first time, I wanted to play on the next level.”

He credits his parents, Todd and Shelly Humphries, for his desire to excel in all he does.

“Honestly, I think it just comes from my parents just pushing me to be the best at everything I do, even with a busy schedule,” he said. “Whatever I'm going to do, I'm just going to put my best foot forward and just try to be the best at it.”

Junior Rebecca Vaughn finished 11^th overall with a squat of 320 pounds, a bench press of 200 pounds and a dead lift of 280 pounds for a total of 800 pounds in her state meet debut.

“We certainly did not win the thing, but she was there and she finished,” head coach Colton Center said. “And every time you finish — you don't bomb out — that's a huge accomplishment, especially when you're at state. So yeah, very proud of her.”

While Center was happy that Vaughn received scores for each lift, he noted the difficulty of advancing in a sport that is growing in popularity as well as how athletes receive scores.

This sport is about more than the ability to pump iron. That’s only one part. The other is meeting a technical standard in front of a judge.  

Throughout the season each meet has a judge at a station, observing how the athlete lifts the weight. And as lifters perform at regional and state meets, those judges become more advanced and look for many aspects of the lift before deciding to award the lift — the score — or not. 

Seasoned veteran athletes, some who have competed at the state meet before, sometimes don’t advance the following year because one judge may be looking for something specific. 

This state meet had six stations and Vaughn competed in the afternoon with 180 other athletes.

“It was actually a pretty pleasant meet setup,” Center said. “I liked being in the afternoon. We had the morning to do whatever we could to get ready and prepared, get a little sleep, so it wasn't too bad.”

The other part is that lifters from across the state, especially in south Texas, are recording totals that are at least 900 pounds. Mathis’ Bridget Seachord won the 198-pound division with a 400-pound squat, a 250-pound bench press, and a 370-pound dead lift for a total of 1,020 pounds. 

That’s why Center praised Vaughn.

“The accomplishment was being there,” he said. “We kind of knew going in we’re not really poised to win the thing. There's some crazy numbers out there, I mean some crazy numbers. You saw some really, really strong people, especially from the south of the state.”

The other part was the timing of the state meet.

“It was actually smack in the middle (of spring break),” the coach said. “We were down there Wednesday and Thursday and so she had she had four days (of spring break) before, then we were down there for two days. So it was different, it was different for all of us who went. It cuts right in the middle of that break.” 

Overall Center believes this experience will do Vaughn plenty of good .

“Some of our kids who have played in the third or fourth round of the playoffs, they know what the pressure is like on the football field, right?” he said. “So knowing what it's like to go to a big stage where it's literally the top lifters in the state and you know what the competition is going to be like, you know what the judges are and knowing what to expect. You can tell her, you could show her all you want before they get that real experience. Now she knows what to train for for the next 360-some-odd days until next year. She knows what is going to be expected.”

Participating 100 Club and EOW Relief Chapters: 

• Hill Country 100 Club
• The Corpus Christi Police Foundation
• 100 Club of San Antonio
• 100 Club of Kendall County
• EOW Relief Foundation
• 100 Club Heart of Texas
• The 100 Club of Comal County, Inc.
• 100 Club of Gillespie County 

These non-profit organizations are dedicated to providing immediate financial and emotional support to the families of first responders who are killed or critically injured in the line of duty. They ensure that those who stand ready for the community have a safety net in their time of greatest need. 

Since its inception in 2001, the Good Friday fundraiser has raised money for local 100 Club and EOW Relief chapters. The funds help provide immediate assistance following a tragedy, as well as ongoing support for mortgages, health insurance, and educational scholarships for surviving family members. 

Event Details: 

• What: Local McDonald's & 100 Club/ EOW Relief Good Friday Fundraiser
• When: Friday, April 3, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Where: Participating McDonald’s locations across South Central Texas
• Impact: 10% of all sales during the window will be donated to the 100 Club and EOW Relief chapters  

About McDonald’s of South Central Texas 

McDonald’s of South Central Texas is a co-operative of local business owners who own and operate more than 320 restaurants throughout the region. They are committed to giving back to the communities they serve through various local charities and initiatives. 

Cynthia Clinesmith will serve as both president and treasurer. Previous board member Darlene Boyles will serve as secretary, but also president-elect for 2027. Forrest Covin will finish his three-year term as vice president. Bryce Harris will chair events, while Joe Dan Rowland will chair legal oversight and mail. New board members David Wright will chair parks and trails, and Michael Appleby will chair communications and assist with events.

About 60 residents of the Horseshoe Bay POA attended the low-key business as usual Annual Meeting on Saturday morning March 21, the first full day of Spring in 2026. After Rowland certified that proper notification had been sent to the POA membership, President Bryan Roach moved that the minutes of the 2025 annual meeting be approved.

POA Executive Director Sandra Moravitz said, "Serving on the POA board requires meaningful commitment of time, energy and careful leadership. These three individuals helped guide this organization through important work that benefits the entire community." She then recognized the three outgoing officers of the POA board: president Bryan Roach, vice president Rick Overholt and treasurer Belinda Roberts. Moravitz outlined their responsibilities: Bryan Roach, as board president, was required to balance many moving parts while keeping the organization focused and steady. Residents came to know Roach as a very visible and hands-on leader during the community's Independence Day celebration. His willingness to step in and do the work, not just guide it, made a lasting impression.

Overholt, as vice president, was also chair of business and capital projects, and subcommittee chair of facilities, parks and trails. He is a strong advocate for the natural beauty and outdoor spaces that make Horseshoe Bay special. He has been deeply involved in the development and maintenance of the hiking trails, parks and ponds, and natural areas. His dedication to preserving and enhancing these spaces provided residents and their guests with opportunities to explore and enjoy the Hill Country landscape.

Roberts served five years as treasurer and brought valuable financial knowledge and organizational insight to the finance and accounting committee and board of directors. In ad- dition to overseeing the fi nancial responsibilities of the POA, she was chair of the personnel and administration committee and took the leadership role to update and maintain the employee handbook and developed a competitive employee ben- efits program. Her euorts helped strengthen the organization’s support structure for its stau while maintain - ing careful financial over sight.

Board members brought reports regarding their various roles of service during the past year. Most notably, Clinesmith gave an expla- nation about the diuerenc es in annual maintenance fees between HSB West and HSB Proper due to the times in which they were developed and increased development costs for HSB West. The annual fees of other subsequent POAs within HSB are significant ly higher.

Anticipating some large expenses required to maintain HSB POA amenities, such as painting Quail Point Lodge and improving the campground facilities, Clinesmith explained that a survey of the needed improvements will be sent to the membership to rank as to importance or necessity.

Clinesmith explained that a one-time assessment might be the best solution, but that would require a vote of the membership. She suggested that a $100 one-time assessment should be adequate. But again, it would be the decision of the membership.

The memory and message of Christ's passion death, and resurrection is central to the Christian faith. Over time, a visual reenactment of Holy Week led to the creation of Stations of the Cross as a spiritual pilgrimage. While the exact origin of the Stations is not entirely clear, it is ancient and associated with pilgrimages to Jerusalem in the early Christian centuries. Those who were able to walk the actual path Jesus walked to his crucifixion were deeply moved by the experience.

Christians throughout the ages made pilgrimages to walk the Via Dolorosa - the actual route believed to have been taken by Jesus through Jerusalem to Calvary. Pilgrims paused at various stations to remember and reflect on what happened to Jesus. Pilgrims who walked the path Jesus walked to his crucifixion were deeply moved by the experience. For over 2000 years pilgrims still seek the experience of following in the steps of Jesus. In December 2014, the vision was cast that Horseshoe Bay could host a regionwide experience of the Via Dolorosa. With creativity and inspiration, the project took off. Attractive Devotional Guides are available at the entrance to the Remembrance Garden to give guidance to pilgrims who walk through the Stations. In its eleventh year, The Stations of the Cross has become a tradition for Holy Week in the Highland Lakes. The Garden is beautifully lighted in the evening, but a flashlight is necessary to read.

The entire Highland Lakes Community is invited to experience The Stations of the Cross this Easter Season in the Remembrance Garden of e Church at Horseshoe Bay. Then, on Easter Sunday, celebrate Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!

The McFarlands have been residents of HSB for 40 years. They made the commitment in November 2024 after being informed of the cost of constructing the new Mausoleum II. Their daughter, Sandra, is the pro bono legal counsel to the association.

At the conclusion of the annual meeting, vice president Chuck Bard made the pre-planned announcement that Jordan, the former mayor and 2025 Citizen of the Year, was resigning as association president. Jordan’s leadership tenure accomplished the reconstituting of the Memorial Board, acquisition of additional acreage from the city and Resort, restoration of the original Mausoleum to proper maintenance, and completion of the new Mausoleum II. He leaves a conceptual master plan in process, and the financial security of a solidly invested endowment for the future.

Church at HSB Senior Pastor John Duncan led in a brief dedication of the new Mausoleum II. His eloquent words, “Since the beginning of this construction project, we have longed to make the space (and all of the memorial spaces and gardens) a Sacred Space: a place to remember, a place to reflect, and a place to re new…a place to remember loved ones; to reflect on the beauty and brevity of life, and to renew Hope. We aim to continue our commitment to make the Sacred Space a beautiful place, a garden space where grief and shared life can lead to deep, quiet spiritual reflection, and a place to find the Shepherd’s comfort in the shadows of life."

The annual meeting was the culmination of an amazing two year journey.

At the first annual meeting just one year ago, Bard described an “opportunity rich environment of a sold-out mausoleum needing TLC, a waiting list of those needing memorial space, no viable business plan, a limited source of income, limited room for growth, a bank account of $60,000, and a community with needs."

This remarkable two-year journey began in March of 2024 when Eileen Hurd expressed to Jordan her disappointment that the HSB Mausoleum was in a sad state of repair. He took that unhappy report as a challenge. Jordan organized an ad hoc meeting of the HSB POA officers and a few concerned citizens, including Hurd, less than one month later in April.

The Memorial Association had been the responsibility of the HSB POA Board since its inception.

Then-POA board president Donald Beeman readily agreed that the Mausoleum would be better managed by an independent board rather than the POA board. He volunteered that the POA board would resign from the Memorial Association if responsible citizens stepped forward to take their place.

One ad hoc meeting led to another. In addition to Bard and Hurd ,the next ad hoc meeting included past HSB Citizens of the Year Lorraine Robertson, Carol Rose, Jim Jorden and Mary Daniel. A plan was made to assume responsibility for the Memorial Association and the Mausoleum in need of repair and maintenance.

The POA board members convened as the Memorial Association Board following their regular June 2024 board meeting. One by one they resigned to Beeman, who in turn appointed Jordan. He then appointed the new board which consisted of the past Citizens of the Year and HSB Senior Pastor John Duncan.

Jordan enlisted Sandra McFarland as pro bono legal counsel for the Memo- rial Association. At the first official meeting of the new board in June 2024, they modified the bylaws from seven to nine board members, and then elected Bard, Hurd and Ron Mitchell to complete the nine member board. The first official action of the new board was to modify the bylaws to allow any and all property owners in HSB to join the association, rather than only HSB POA members.

Goals and objectives were identified at that first meeting. Jim Jorden and Ron Mitchell pursued additional acreage from the city and the Resort. All of the property had originally been owned by the Hurds. Bard went to work immediately to repair, restore and improve the exiting Mausoleum and bring it up to a high standard. Rose began to identify Mausoleum I owners to solicit needed contributions for the needed maintenance repairs. A conceptual master plan was inaugurated to include a new mausoleum.

By the end of 2024, a conceptual design and price for the new mausoleum was identified and adopted.

That is the point when the McFarlands stepped forward with the unanticipated anonymous gift sufficiently generous to build the new mausoleum allowing all sales revenue to go toward endowment for long term care and maintenance. This was something that the first mausoleum financial structure did not accomplish.

In January 2025, the "New Founders" pre-construction sales of niches and crypts was begun. Dede Hodge joined as general manager, and a new website was begun. All of this was described at the first annual meeting of the Memorial Association in March 2025.

Ground was broken for the new mausoleum in April 2025 and the materials were ordered from Coldspring to construct the mausoleum. Construction began in the summer of 2025 and was completed before the end of the year.

The second annual meeting was a celebration of a remarkable two year journey described by Bard, with visuals of the entire land clearing, removal of 40 tons of rock, and the remarkably complex construction process. The meeting ended with anticipation of even more developments for the landscaping and a conceptual master plan for more mausoleums, memorial benches with niches, above ground crypts, and the dream of a chapel and bathroom facilities.

In a brief board meeting following the annual meeting, Jordan’s resignation was reluctantly but gratefully accepted. Bard was elected the new president and Daniel was elected the new vice president.

“There are a lot of things going on throughout the day, but one of the new groups we have coming in is Texas Armored Combat, which does live reenactments of medieval battles,” said event organizer Amy Arnold. “They’re going to do a demo battle every 30 minutes from 2-5 p.m. Everyone is excited about seeing a bunch of guys dressed up as knights and using swords. The demo includes history and education.”

She said the group is trying to start a chapter in the Hill Country.

A wide variety of activities, exhibitions, musical performers and vendors such as nonprofits and local artisans are going to be part of the festivities from 12-10 p.m. Beer, wine and food will be available at the family and pet-friendly event centered on the square.

“Pistol Packin’ Paula will be walking around entertaining people,” Arnold said. “She’s known around Blanco from the Buggy Barn.”

Pistol Packin’ Paula is a gunslinger and Western performer.

The free event got its start in 2024. Last year, more than 1,000, people attended Founders Day.

“We’re still going strong,” Arnold said. “We added two more hours this year, so it’s a full day of bands and entertainment. We’ve tried to make sure there’s a little of something for everybody.”

Just like that first year, the Jesse Stratton Band will be headliner. Six bands are slated for the event.

“Plus, the ‘Picker’s Circle’ will join us at Bindseil Park,” she said.

Another highlight will be the color guard’s flag ceremony and presentation.

In the background of each Founders Day is a lot of hard work with a small crew, Arnold said.

“It’s all worth it when we see how many people come out to enjoy the day and to celebrate being Blancoans,” Arnold said. “We have a good weather forecast and we’re hoping for a good turnout.”

For more information, check out www.BlancoFoundersDay.com.

Residents should expect to receive phone calls or notifications and emergency sirens will be tested that morning, said Chris Liesmann, Blanco County Emergency Management coordinator and Precinct 3 county commissioner. The entire testing time is expected to last from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that day.

Capitol Area Council of Governments will send out a reverse notification through the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) at approximately 10 a.m., and the county will follow with its notification at approximately 10:15 a.m.

“Please bear with us. This is a request from the state,” Liesmann said. “We’re just doing as we’re instructed and we’re going to test our emergency notifications.”

Each landline and cell phone in the county should get the notifications. Anyone traveling through the county at the time should also receive the notifications.

Liesmann said it’s important to not disable your cell phone’s notifications because the system is used only to send out the most important information.

“Please do not go in there and disable your notifications because this is a big thing that we want people to (know), whenever we send these out, it’s for your benefit,” he said. “This is what’s supposed to happen. I know this one is going to be kind of confusing and is going to frustrate people, but please bear with us and let’s get through this thing. We’ll move forward and give the state our feedback.”

While some counties or localities send out various information through the IPAWS system, Blanco County only uses the system for emergencies.

“(It’s) important because if you’re sending out IPAWS, it’s bad. It’s something bad,” said Blanco County Judge Brett Bray. “(It’s) all the more reason not to turn (your notifications) off, because everybody needs to be alerted if it’s something really bad.”

“We try to limit the things that we send out across any of our notification platforms,” Liesmann added.

One thing that people should be aware of is that if you live close to another county, or will be close to another county on April 2, you may get notifications from multiple counties or agencies. This is because the IPAWS system is based on cell tower location, and can’t be as exact as notifications sent to landlines.

Liesmann said the county is also working with the cities to test the sirens on April 2.

“Everybody is used to the 12 o’clock sound, but it’s going to be at a different time and there will be multiple rings as opposed to just a singular ring,” he said.

The emergency testing is a request of the Texas Division of Emergency Management and is being done statewide that day.

“Regular training and testing of public warning systems builds readiness before disaster strikes and is an important component of community safety,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd in a press release. “Conducting drills to reaffirm procedures, promote confidence in technological tools, and identify potential shortfalls is key to ensuring these systems operate with precision, accuracy, and timeliness when they are needed the most.”

While the April 2 action is only a test, it is a reminder to update any emergency plans and make sure your contact information is up to date in the county notification system.

The season’s standout performer, Wildlife Team member Michael Axtell, has become a force to be reckoned with on the state level. Axtell’s spring highlight came at the San Antonio Livestock Show, where he clinched first place, earning a massive $10,000 scholarship.

His victory in San Antonio was the crown jewel of a dominant month. Just days prior, Axtell swept the Blanco/Harris Double Header (adding $3,000 to his fund) and later secured a win at the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, tacking on another $1,000.

Wildlife Team Finds Its Rhythm The success isn’t limited to individuals. The Wildlife Team—which tests students on habitat management, game laws, and outdoor safety—has shown steady improvement on the leaderboard. After back-to-back 8th place finishes in San Antonio and San Angelo, the squad surged to a 2nd place finish at the recent Schreiner Invitational in Kerrville. Supporting the team’s efforts were Reese Odiorne (2nd high individual) and Ben Russell (6th high individual).

The momentum carried into Spring Break, where the team traveled to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, placing 11th out of a massive field, with Odiorne finishing 11th individually.

Vet Science charges ahead

The Johnson City Veterinary Science Team is also proving they belong among the state’s elite. At the Schreiner contest, the team secured a 3rd place finish, demonstrating mastery of clinical procedures and animal handling. Leading the charge were Devlin Donaghey, who ranked 5th individually, and the multi-talented Michael Axtell, who placed 7th.

The road to Area

These contests serve as more than just trophy hunts; they are the practical application of Texas Ag-Science classroom instruction. With 28 different CDEs available across the state, these events prepare students for high-level careers in technical and leadership fields.

Both the Wildlife and Vet Science teams, along with Livestock Evaluation are now entering their final phase of training as they prepare for the high-stakes Area competitions scheduled for April.

In his report, Superintendent Sean Leamon said that the Puncherdome construction is moving along and “getting exciting” with a late July completion date still being projected. Work is currently being done on drainage and getting the correct slope for a sewer pipe. A delivery of the steel to be used in the project is expected by the end of the month. Superintendent Leamon reported that the insurance company representative said “it is the cleanest work site he’s ever seen.”

District enrollment is down by two students, both in the elementary school, the Superintendent said. Current district enrollment is 673, with 267 elementary, 215 junior high and 191 high school students.

The district’s insurance company will not pay for the damages from a recent incident with a leaking water cooler on the gym floor, the Superintendent said. Repair costs are estimated at $7,800.

The board approved the school calendar for 2026-27.

Superintendent Leamon said it is identical to last year’s calendar, with the exception of moving spring break up a week. The district used a survey of teachers in preparing the calendar.

Lori Graves, Mason Elementary School teacher, will retire this year, the Superintendent announced. “We really appreciate everything Mrs. Graves has done,” he said, adding that the district hopes to continue to utilize her in the future.

TXDOT is asking for the public to submit their comments on highway needs by April 24. They may be emailed to Michelle.Conkle@txdot.gov, with the subject line Attention: Rural TIP. Comments may also be mailed to: Texas Department of Transportation Austin District, Attn: Rural TIP 7901 N Interstate 35 Austin, TX 78753 Currently scheduled Mason County TXDOT projects are for installing cable median barriers on Highway 87 and “in various locations in Mason County.” The first is described as “.33 miles West of Art Hedwigs Hill Road to .362 miles South of RM 152.” The location of the second project was not identified. Ms. Conkle described the cable barriers as “posts that stick up out of the ground with steel cables running between them, placed between two lanes of traffic.” Each of these projects has a $1,300,000 budget and are scheduled to begin in 2029. In 2031, a third project to do a one-inch asphalt overlay on Highway 87 is scheduled. The budget for the overlay is $376,450.

Commissioners strongly recommended that TXDOT look at the Highway 386 and Highway 71 intersection, as well as Highway 29 and Highway 87 in the county. Both highways have seen a major increase in traffic and neither have shoulders or sufficient passing lanes, they said.

Mason County Judge Sheree Hardin also announced that Thursday, April 2 is the deadline to submit proposals for road building materials and the hauling of road building materials. On April 10, an evaluation committee will go over the proposals, and they will be up for approval at a meeting April 13. Information about submitting a proposal may be found on the home page or the Road and Bridge department page of the Mason County website.

In other business, Commissioners approved the Law Enforcement department’s purchase of seven new laptop computers from Peace Maker Technologies at a cost of $14,700 annually, for four years. The first year’s payment will come from the Friends of the Sheriff fund, with subsequent payments planned to be paid with Senate Bill 22 funds, said Sheriff Joe Lancaster.

A new part-time investigator clerk position in the Sheriff’s office was also approved by the Court. The four-hour per week position will help with paperwork in the department, and will pay $21 per hour, with retirement benefits. Along with creating this new position, the Court approved amendments to the 2026 budget year order to include the newly created position and to delineate responsibilities of the hiring process for both elected officials and department heads.

The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department received approval to renew its contract with PSTRAX Inventory Management Software. EMS is in its third year of using this software and the department has found it very helpful. The renewal fee for 2026 is $2,128, which has increased each year from the $1,965 cost in 2024.

The County renewed its property insurance with the Texas Association of Counties (TAC). The only change to its property schedule was the new carport at the Historical Building, said Judge Hardin.

Commissioners approved a request from Bluebonnet CASA and the Mason County Child Welfare Board to declare April as Child Abuse Awareness Month. Bluebonnet CASA Director Lisa Goehmann said that their agency serves five counties: Mason, Menard, Kimball, Edwards and McCulloch, and that they are in their 24th year. Bluebonnet CASA is a non-profit and gets all its funding from grants and public donations, she said.

Representatives from the Mason County Child Welfare Board, now in its 30th year, also attended Commissioners Court. This weekend is the annual Hamburger Fundraiser and Easter Egg Hunt on the courthouse lawn, which the public is encouraged to support.

Commissioners confirmed that the restrooms on the Courthouse lawn will be open April 4 for the Arts and Wine Fest.

With elections happening this May, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and give a little insight into my qualifications as well as a few ideas as I kick off my campaign. I grew up in Camp Air and graduated from Mason High School in 1995. I have strong family ties to Mason and came back to help care for my mother, Juanita Horton. I am currently married with seven children and five grandchildren.

Anyone who has known me throughout life can vouch that I am an honest, transparent, and trustworthy individual. I have dedicated many years of my life to being a police officer, Army soldier, communications, and detention officer, and even a Justice of the Peace. Now that I have retired, I feel I can better serve the Mason community by serving as City Commissioner. I believe there is an immediate need to increase two-way engagement with citizens, employees, organizations, and businesses to reduce suspicions and rumors all while fostering true transparency and accountability to the voters. I feel there is a strong need for better vetting and focused efforts into finding/keeping qualified candidates for the permanent City Administrator and City Secretary positions.

I want to address not only the city’s immediate needs but also create long term goals to get better results year after year. These strategies will help foster financial recovery and sustainability as well as to continue to allow room for growth for our thriving community. The current aging and problematic infrastructure needs addressing as well before it becomes a bigger issue or penalty. I believe creating some form of city-led business expansion with an attraction and retention initiative will strengthen the tax income by alleviating the overburdening of current citizens with even more tax increases. I realize this is a touchy process as Mason is such an amazing place currently, but with the right constraints this would only enhance what Mason has for everyone.

I am fully committed to enhancing the quality of life for Mason residents. I pledge to be readily available to all starting at this very moment. I can be reached at either my cell 512-588-4857 or by emailing townsend4district3@gmail.com. Feel free to call, text, or email me. Remember your vote is your voice!

The district held a public meeting in early March and has information and videos posted on the school website under www.masonisd.net/ bond2026. According to Superintendent Sean Leamon, “The main priorities of the bond are the safety of our students and staff, managing program/student growth and maintaining and updating MISD’s facilities.”

Specifically, Mr. Leamon says that the bond will fund olition of existing academic wings and renovation of the roof and HVAC are proposed. At Mason Junior High, funds will go toward a new HVAC system for the gym. Bond funds will pay for improvements to the school grounds, including new covered walkways, site circulation and parking improvements and security fencing to comply with state safety guidelines.

Schools may tax communities for two types of funding: Maintenance and Operations (M&O) and Interest and Sinking (I&S). M&O pays the bills dayto- day including utilities, salaries and supplies. I&S is designated for construction and capital improvements. The $35,000,000 bond will be financed over 30 years and paid off by increasing the I&S rate portion of Mason property taxes.

The MISD M&O tax rate is currently 0.7494 per $100 of taxable value, according to my 2025 property tax bill. MISD I&S was at zero in 2025 because it phased out when the previous bond, initiated in 2017 for capital improvements, was paid off in 2024.

The 2026 bond proposal to borrow $35,000,000 over a 30-year term would reinstate the I&S portion of the school tax at $0.3350 for a total rate of 1.0844, M&O and I&S combined.

Based on historical tables provided by MISD superintendent Sean Leamon, a combined rate of 1.0844, while higher than last year when there was no I&S tax imposed, is below all other previous rates going back to 2006.

If you have a homestead exemption, your tax bill for 2025 was likely lower than that of 2024 for two reasons: your taxable value dropped by an additional $40,000 and the MISD tax rate dropped from 1.1080 to .07494. For example, my school tax dropped by $1,023.59 from 2024 to 2025. If the bond passes, the savings I saw on my school taxes last year could shrink to around $200.

Mason County Appraisal District tax estimates issued June 9, 2025, quoted the Homestead Exemption as $100,000, meaning homeowners who apply and qualify for the exemption automatically have $100,000 deducted from the appraised value of their property before the school tax rate is applied. So, if your home was valued at $250,000, the amount used to calculate the school tax bill, or the taxable value, would have been $150,000 X 0.74940. Other taxing entities, like the Water District and the County, use the full value, in this example, $250,000, to calculate taxes.

In November of 2025, the Texas Legislature approved Texas Proposition 13, which increased the homestead property tax exemption from $100,000 to $140,000 to provide tax relief to homeowners. Based on the $250,000 example, the taxable home value to be used as a multiplier for MISD drops to $110,000 under the new statute.

The Mason County Appraisal District used the Proposition 13 exemption to calculate taxes for 2025. If you have a homestead exemption and you paid taxes in Mason in 2025, your bill issued in November 2025 reflected the change. School taxes were calculated using a $140,000 homestead exemption.

Proposition 13 provided an additional $60,000 homestead exemption as relief to taxpayers over 65. For eligible taxpayers, the $250,000 taxable value multiplier example dropped from $110,000 to $50,000 taxable value.

Based on the most recent census data, Mason County has a population of approximately 2,161. The age distribution for likely homeowners includes 22% over 65, 21% 45-64 years old and 23% 25-44 years old. The population age 24 and under is about 33%. The median age in Mason is 55.

Taxpayers over 65 who have not made substantial changes to their homestead are locked in to the amount they owed in school taxes during their first year of eligibility. Their tax will not change.

A small portion of the 33% below age 24 may pay property taxes, but most will not own a home yet. Renters will not pay toward the bond, but the owners of rental property, who are not eligible for homestead exemptions, will be assessed at a full value. Businesses will also pay the new rate at their appraised value.

It’s hard to predict the exact impact until 2026 Notices of Appraised Value are issued this summer. Comparing taxes year-over-year is not apples-to-apples because the appraised value of a homestead is a moving target. Even if the tax rate stays the same, when the multiplier that is the home appraised value rises, the bottom line rises.

There is a note in the fine print on my 2025 Mason County tax bill that says, “The difference between the 2020 appraised value and the 2025 appraised value is 54.09%.” The appraised value on my home has increased over 50% in five years!

Mason property values have skyrocketed since the pandemic. The MISD bond webpage provides a 20-year summary of aggregate taxable assessed value for the county which shows that over two decades the total assessed value has more than tripled from $192,582,797 in 2007 to a projected $686,336,277 in 2026.

Even though, across the board, our tax rates are generally lower than neighboring communities and our taxing units (city, county, water district and MISD) hew to very modest rate increases, the rising appraised home values used to calculate the tax due make the total tax bill jump annually. Tax rates are not so much the culprit for “high taxes” as soaring values.

While 2026 values are yet to be publicized, the impact of the cost of the Mason ISD bond is mitigated by two factors: the reinstated I&S, while higher than last year’s tax rate without I&S, is slightly less than in previous years and the taxable value of homesteads was reduced by Proposition 13.

Next time, in Part II of this series, I will delve into more detail on the context at the schools and the projects to be funded.

“I felt like we had some kiddos that did some things as well as anybody else in the district, and so I put them up,” head coach Craig Koch said. “And the coaches said, ‘Yeah, those kiddos did a great job’ and voted for them.

So that was cool.”

Sophomore post Ryder Balmos was named the district’s Newcomer of the Year.

“That was exciting for him,” Koch said. “We’ll have him back for two more years.”

First team all- district members are guard Cooper Ratliff and forward Rylan Hershman, who are both juniors.

“They played well enough against everybody,” Koch said. “Those two guys really made us go.”

Senior guard Corbin Martinez and junior post Robert Johnson were named to the second team.

Honorable mention went to senior forward Christian Gammill, junior guard Grant Nobles and sophomore guard Jaxon Valverde.

“I felt like I was able to nominate a few kids and the coaches really, really agreed with my nominations,” the coach said. “And we got everything that I could hoped for out of a team that really wasn't very good to start with.”

Koch praised his players for being willing to go through the strenuous practices that he conducted where the Punchers spent a lot of time on the defensive end.

He noted the players had around a month to get ready for district play because the football team’s season ended December 4.

The basketball team competed in two tournaments and three non-district games before beginning district play against Goldthwaite January 3.

“Collectively, if we hadn't gotten done what we needed to get done in practice then we wouldn't have gotten second place in the district,” Koch said. “So they bought in enough and played hard enough and did some things well enough for us to have a decent season and make a good district run and want to be in the playoffs and win a game. So the coaches recognized that; they all talked about it.”

While the coach can’t argue with the ending, he believes these Punchers are capable of accomplishing much more. “We did improve a ton and I told the kids if we could go back and play those first 15 games again — with what we know now — we'd be 26-4 probably,” he said. “But I was really, really pleased.”

Hosted by the Fredericksburg Rotary Club, the festival benefits local charitable initiatives and continues its mission of bringing people together through great beer, camaraderie and great causes. 

Friday, June 12 – Texas Craft Beer Competition & Awards Dinner 

The weekend kicks off Friday evening at Altstadt Brewery with the Texas Craft Beer Competition and Awards Dinner, awarding outstanding craft brewers from across the state.  

Saturday, June 13 – Festival at Marktplatz  

On Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., historic Marktplatz (Market Square) in downtown Fredericksburg will host more than 30 Texas craft breweries offering samples and beer for purchase. The festival will also feature live music, dancing, cornhole, food vendors, Texas wine selections, and family-friendly fun in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.  

Live Music Lineup (Saturday): 

• 1:15–3:15 p.m. – The Outlaw Years Band 

• 3:30–5:45 p.m. – Sister Golden Hair

Tickets  

General Admission tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate and include:  

• Three craft beer samples 

• A commemorative souvenir glass 

• Access to live entertainment and festival activities 

Supporting the Community  

Eighty percent of festival proceeds will support Rotary’s local charitable efforts, with the remaining twenty percent benefiting the building fund for Bethany Pre-School, a local organization dedicated to serving children in the community.  

This festival is not only a celebration of Texas craft brewing, but also a reflection of Fredericksburg’s strong community spirit. We’re proud to mark five years of bringing people together while giving back to the place we call home.  

For more information and ticket details, visit the website- https://fbgcraftbeerfestival.com/.

He shares this journey of discovery and achievements at the ARTS Encounters at Museo Benini Sunday, March 29, beginning at 1:30 p.m. This event is a gathering of creative minds – artists, writers and musicians and sharing their stories inspirations and talent an intimate setting. Everyone is welcome. Reservations are requested, but admission is free.

Gardner has been an international champion equestrian, a well-published author, and falconer. Together, he and his wife Marion have sailed solo more than 70,000 miles. Before retiring in 2021, he was an award-winning Horseshoe Bay contractor and landowner.

At 78 years old, Gardner began sculpting Egyptian Arabian horses. With his artwork revealing his intimate knowledge of this breed, it is now found in art collections in Europe, England, the U.S., and several of the royal families in the Middle East.

Marion Gardner, David’s wife of 62 years offers a perspective. “David is the oldest rookie sculptor in history. He has a well-earned reputation for being a trifle obsessive. I wake up every morning thinking ‘What’s next? Joining the circus?”

Judith Forbis, who lives part-time in Qatar, is considered the world’s foremost author and breeder of Egyptian Arabian horses. She recently commented, “I’ve known David more than 50 years. David was a world-class rider and a serious student of Egyptian Arabian horses. Everything he touched, he did exceedingly well. His sculptures capture the spirit, elegance, and movement of Arabian horses.” Gardner recently learned that Forbis will attend his presentation at Museo Benini.

Gardner grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, hardly the epicenter of the horse world. “I was born with the horse-loving gene. All of my friends dreamed of playing for the Boston Red Sox, but I dreamed of a life with Arabian horses.

“For 26 years, I lived that dream. I trained and rode some of the greatest horses in the world, traveled to Egypt over a dozen times studying pedigrees and buying Egyptian Arabian horses for export. Frankly, I would have done it for free.”

Stan Morey, executive director of the Arabian Horse Association of America commented “David Gardner was one of the most talented riders of his generation, particularly with Egyptian Arabian horses. Always a creative person, it comes as no surprise that he is such a talented sculptor.”

Remarking on the connection between Arabian horses and art, Gardner said, “All desert creatures, including Salukis, gazelles, falcons and Arabian horses share a uniquely slender elegance. They are among the most beautiful creatures in the world and have been the subjects of classical art for centuries. I am fortunate to relive that beauty through sculpting. I thank God for the gifts that He lent to me, including the most supportive wife imaginable, and Lexi, the best dog who ever walked the planet. Who could ask for more.”

David and Marion Gardner have been full-time residents of Horseshoe Bay for 28 years.

Gardner sculptures will be on exhibition for this presentation. Following a short social interlude, ARTS Encounters continues with 2-OG, the musical collaboration of Richard Steinberg and Randy Brown. The two Hill Country transplants started playing together in 2012. Both are multi-instrumentalists and have crafted a repertoire that many call “the soundtrack of our lives.” Both Brown and Steinberg are life-long musicians and vow to be eternally connected to their craft.

Reservations are requested for this event. Call 830693-2147 or email info@museobenini.com.

Eventually, we made it to the bridal boutique at Frost Brothers, a high-fashion San Antonio department store in the North Star Mall.

We were shown to a dressing room, and the wedding stylist brought out several gowns for me to consider.

Among them was a polished Priscilla of Boston satin gown that seemed to call my name the moment I touched it. Its A-line silhouette gently flared from the waistline. The fitted lace bustline and long sleeves added formal elegance.

Flower appliqués drifted down the sleeves and into its hemline and train, and the back was finished with a long row of covered buttons, designed to bustle. When I slipped on the smooth gown, it fit perfectly – no alterations needed!

I looked at my mother with hopeful eyes and quietly asked if we could afford it. She got out her checkbook and bought the gown right then and there.

After the wedding, my husband and I had the dress professionally cleaned and it was placed in a gold bridal keepsake box for preservation. Over our married years, the golden box traveled with us from home to home, always kept sealed and safely tucked away in closets. Every so often, I’d peek through the plastic window of the box to look at the gown and be transported back to the early days of a young bride and groom, the whirlwind days of married life, and the changing years spent raising a family. As time marched on, I continued to save the dress in hopes that a family member might want to wear it for their wedding, but each chose a gown of her own taste.

Fifty years later, after my husband and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary, I decided it was time to take the now “vintage” gown out of the box and give it away. At first touch, I quickly noticed the netting had become brittle, but fortunately the shiny satin and lace appliqués were still in beautiful condition.

Then, as I lifted the gown completely out of the box, my heart sank – there was a long yellow stain ran down the left side! How could that have happened after all those years sealed away? Suddenly, a memory surfaced. It was something that I hadn’t thought of in decades. A wedding guest, enthusiastic with drink in hand, had accidentally spilled champagne on me during the reception. The colorless splash had simply waited all these years to reveal itself. With the dress permanently marked, I knew no bride would want to wear it. What was I to do? Slowly, an idea began to form – one that felt both meaningful and hopeful. Our daughter was expecting a baby girl, and I wondered if my wedding gown could possibly be transformed into a baptismal or a naming gown for our future grandchildren. I knew exactly who to ask to sew it.

I brought the vintage dress to Gloria Ramirez, owner of Hummingbird Alterations in Marble Falls.

Gloria is a very talented seamstress known for her exquisite work, as well as for being a Horseshoe Bay Zumba instructor. I was aware that Gloria had graduated from the Technological Institute of Veracruz in Mexico, with a degree in Fashion Design. She agreed to take on my design project.

A couple of months later, Gloria called me to her shop. I wasn’t prepared for the wave of emotion that washed over me when I saw the finished dress. My wedding gown – once worn by a young college bride full of dreams – had been reborn into a beautiful baptismal gown, and I was elated. Gloria had carefully constructed the baptismal attire using the best parts of the satin, buttons, and lace appliqués. She purposely made the baby’s dress extra-long to hang down when the infant was held. She hand sewed more sequins and pearls on it and included a lining so the dress would feel soft against an infant’s skin. Gloria additionally sewed the original wedding gown’s label inside and constructed a matching lace headband. In that moment, I felt satisfied that my idea for the fifty-year-old dress had come full circle, and that it would carry on through the years with new purpose and life.

Our daughter’s baby is due soon, and my husband and I cannot wait to give the baby’s baptismal gown to our daughter and son-in-law and to see their reactions. Our new granddaughter will be adding her own chapter to the gown’s history. Our hope is that the gown will continue to be worn by future babies in the family. Perhaps one day, long after we’re gone, a great-grandchild will be slipped into it, and someone will say, “This baptismal dress was made from your great-grandmother’s wedding gown.” And in that small, tender moment, a piece of our faith, love, and dreams will still be there, woven into the dress and wrapped around the next little life that’s welcomed into God’s wonderful world.

Jenice Graham Benedict is a local artist and author who lives in Horseshoe Bay. She enjoys creating artwork and is also the author of the novel ‘IN THE LAND OF COTTON, a true-life American saga of family, faith, and perseverance.

BHS senior Carlos Perez broke three regional records on his way to winning the regional title. The previous squat record in the 123 weight class was 425 pounds. Perez set a new record with a 455 pound squat. The previous record on the bench press was 285 pounds. Perez set a new record with a bench press of 290 pounds. He completed a 440 pound deadlift. The previous total lift was 1,110 pounds. Perez’s total lift was 1185 pounds for a new regional record. He received the THSPA Region II Outstanding Lifter of the Meet plaque for the light platform in Division III.

Senior Donovan Hector won the regional title in the 220 pound weight class. Hector squatted 600 pounds, bench pressed 500 pounds and deadlifted 545 pounds for a total lift of 1,645 pounds. Hector won the plaque for THSPA Region II Outstanding Bench Presser on the heavy platform in Division III.

Kaden Elrod, a Blanco senior, won the silver medal in the 220 pound weight class. Elrod squatted 650 pounds, bench pressed 440 pounds and deadlifted 535 pounds for a total lift of 1,625 pounds en route to his second place finish in his weight class.

Sophomore Alex Shearer competed in the unequipped division that was just added in 2026. In this division, the lifter uses no additional lifting shirts. The division combines lifters from all classifications. Shearer lifted in the 132 pound division and won the gold with a 315 pound squat, a 185 bench press and a 405 deadlift for a total lift of 905 pounds.

Senior Hunter Rodriguez medaled with a fifth place finish in the 198 pound weight class. Rodriguez squatted 500 pounds, bench pressed 340 pounds, deadlifted 420 pounds for a total lift of 1,260 pounds.

Roger Barrera, a junior, placed seventh in the 220 pound weight class with a 570 pound squat, a 310 pound bench press, and a 535 deadlift for a total lift of 1,380 pounds.

Junior Ulysses Hernandez placed seventh in the 132 pound weight class with a 305 pound squat, a 185 pound bench press and a 365 pound deadlift for a total lift of 855 pounds.

Kyson Millard, a sophomore, placed 10th in the 275 pound weight class with a 430 pound squat, a 340 pound bench press and a 405 pound deadlift for a total lift of 1,175 pounds.

Perez, Hector, Elrod and Shearer will compete at the THSPA State Powerlifting Meet in Abilene March 27-28.

Two Blanco FFA students finished as the high individual in their respective contest and were each awarded a $4,000 scholarship from Schreiner University. Congratulations to Breanna Delgado, who won first place as an individual in entomology, and to Chance Martinez, who won first place as an individual in wildlife.

Complete results are as follows: Entomology, first place team: Breanna Delgado (first individual), Emma Edmonson (third individual), Aedan Olinick (11th individual) and Tatum Brown (15th individual).

Vet Science, first place team: Melissa Palacios (second individual), Brooklyn Plahy (sixth individual), Xavier Ayala (eighth individual) and Gisela Fernandez (ninth individual).

Wildlife, first place team: Chance Martinez (first individual), Creed Finch (fourth individual), Cayden Hinesley (14th individual) and Jake Brock (19th individual).

The second set of feedback being sought for Blanco’s Comprehensive Master Plan is titled “Path to Resilience, Shaping Blanco’s Next 20 Years.” Respondents can fill out the survey at Langfordplanning.com/blanco-rcp.

The second phase of the survey “focuses on future planning choices and practical strategies that will help Blanco remain strong, sustainable, and prepared for the years ahead,” according to Langford Planning on behalf of the City of Blanco.

“Help us see Blanco through your eyes. The interactive mapping activity allows you to drop pins directly on areas of town to highlight places you value, areas of concern, improvements and locations with future potential. This tool provides specific, location- based input that helps us understand how different parts of Blanco function today — and where targeted planning strategies may be needed,” the survey preface stated.

The first portion of the study received 74 full responses from Nov. 6 through Dec. 14 last year and its findings were reported this month to the city council. The survey’s objective was to provide “directional insight into community values and priorities, revealing consistent themes that can inform planning and visioning conversations and processes.”

The executive summary stated that respondents wanted to protect Blanco’s “small-town character, natural assets and sense of familiarity,” but also said there was a need for planning, resilience and economic stability for the two decades.

“Blanco is not being described as something to optimize or grow aggressively. It is being described as something to steward carefully,” the study said.

The survey said residents were open to change, but stressed the need to also protect “what already works.” Residents expressed pride in the Blanco River and water features, the pace of life, local businesses and gathering places, the ability to know one’s neighbors and the beauty of the town and its landscape.

Langford Planning developed five core themes from the responses. They are nature is Blanco’s anchor, small is a feature, local businesses are the community’s glue, Blanco is a place for human moments, and the need for stewardship of natural beauty instead of only preservation.

Respondents said they live in Blanco for its nature, and mentioned specifically the Blanco River, Blanco State park, native plants and wildlife, quiet view and dark night skies. Small is a feature because Blanco is quiet, friendly, slow, peaceful and familiar, respondents said. They are worried about too much traffic, becoming overly tourist driven and becoming “just another Hill Country stop.” Those who responded were concerned about the possible loss of walkability and visual simplicity, losing a recognizable town center and “not running into people you know.”

“Growth conversations must clearly define what Blanco will not become, not just what it will,” the findings stated.

Respondents said local businesses were the community’s glue and described them as “social infrastructure, not retail.” They appreciated long-standing local businesses and “places where staff know your name.” The survey summary stated that the city should prioritize locally owned businesses and small, incremental commercial growth.

The human moments portion of the survey said that “Blanco’s strongest asset is relational, not just physical.” Public spaces should support everyday connection, it stated. Responses often included a focus on friends gathering, familiar routines and casual walks.

Looking at stewardship, respondents focused on the historic Old Blanco County Courthouse and the square, seasonal landscapes, native flowers and “simple, wellkept environments.” Plannings should focus on the Hill Country character and “simplicity over spectacle.”

Noteworthy responses in the survey included the need to “make life better for residents” and to not focus on “making Blanco more impressive to outsiders.” Respondents expressed appreciation for “everyday moments” in Blanco, a strong connection to water and the Blanco River, and a preference for “authenticity over novelty.”

Repeated phrases in the survey focused on “defensive, not aspirational” words, the summary said.

“Residents are naming what they don’t want to lose,” it said.

Some often repeated phrases in survey responses include slow pace, peaceful, friendly, welcoming, smalltwo feel, uncrowded, fresh air, quiet, calm, the ability to “sit down, stay awhile,” and “run into people you know.”

Langford Planning listed eight strategic takeaways from the first phase, also known as the “visioning process.” 

They are: 

1. Lead with protection, not trans formation.

2. Treat water as both infrastructure and identity.

3. Frame resilience as cultural continuity.

4. Protect small businesses and everyday routines .

5. Reinforce the square and river as social anchors.

6. Support human-scale music and gathering.

7. Define limits as clearly as opportunities.

8. Honor the ordinary— that’s where Blanco’s value lives.

Dear Neighbors and Residents of Mason County, My name is John Gammill, and I am officially announcing my candidacy for District 3 Commissioner. My wife, Angela, and I are 5th generation citizens of Mason County. We moved back to Mason in 2021 after living in Fredericksburg while I cared for my father. All three of our sons—Ethan, Julian, and Christian—graduated from Mason High School, and we couldn't have asked for a better community in which to raise them.

I bring a unique perspective to this role as both a former city employee and a former city commissioner. In fact, I may be the only person to have served the city both by riding on the back of a trash truck and by sitting on the commission.

I am running because I believe our city needs clearer leadership and stability. We must ensure that our city does not shift toward a mayor-run system; our employees deserve consistent management rather than a new boss every two years. My first priority will be hiring a city administrator who can effectively facilitate the commission’s legislation while managing the complex day-to-day operations our city requires.

Additionally, I am committed to addressing affordable housing. I am currently reviewing the Habitat for Humanity initiative. While there is a significant amount of information to go through, I believe the situation could have been handled differently. Habitat for Humanity is a vital organization that provides the incredible gift of homeownership through hard work, and it deserves our thoughtful support.

I love our town and hope to have the opportunity to serve you again. Thank you for your support, and I am happy to sit down and discuss these issues with anyone who has questions.

Sincerely, John Gammill

“That was huge, that was quite a game,” head coach Jay Immel said. “I think that’s a great win.”

The scoring started quickly thanks to senior Ray Row, who hit a solo home run to the first inning.

Senior Kalen Langehennig and junior Kingston Garza each followed with base hits. Then senior Gustavo Valdez cleared the bases with a three-run homer for a 4-0 advantage.

“It was quite a start,” Immel said.

But the Warriors were unfazed. They hit a grand slam to take the lead 6-4.

Valdez remained cool, however, and answered with his second three-run homer that helped the Punchers build a 10-6 advantage.

Nevertheless, Ingram added a second grand slam to tie the contest at 10-10 headed into the seventh inning.

Junior catcher Slade Buell broke the tie with a solo home run.

Junior pitcher Grant Nobles closed out the contest for the win.

“There were six total home runs in that game,” the coach said. “I’ve never seen that before, where a team gave up two grand slams and still won. But it shows you the persistence of this team. They’ll just keep on keeping on.”

Mason returned to District 28-2A play March 13 and completed its sweep of Goldthwaite with a 9-4 victory to remain undefeated in district play.

The Punchers led 2-0 in the first inning only to see the Eagles respond with four runs in the second inning. But Mason answered by plating three in its half of the inning followed by two in the fourth and two in the sixth for the victory.

Mason recorded five hits to Goldthwaite’s two and both teams each committed five errors.

Immel noted that winning a contest like the one his team nabbed against Ingram says plenty about his Punchers.

“That's the third one where we've had to come from behind to win,” he said. “It just shows these guys that with the hitters that we have, we're just never out of the game. Just one swing of the bat can change anything, and I think they're starting to believe that more and more. So it just gives us a little bit more confidence when we get up there, even if we are behind that we can come back and still win it.”

Mason is at Johnson City Tuesday, March 24, and then welcomes the Eagles Friday, March 27, and Center Point Monday, March 30, in district play. The junior varsity takes the field at 4:30 p.m. followed by the varsity at 6:30 p.m.