Blanco County News: Community News http://www.blanconews.com/ News coverage, photos, events, obituaries and more published every Wednesday for Blanco County, Texas (including Blanco, Johnson City, Round Mountain), Hye, Stonewall, Dripping Springs, Spring Branch, Bulverde, and Kendalia. http://www.blanconews.com/favicon.png Blanco County News: Community News http://www.blanconews.com/ en-us Tue, 29 Jul 2014 02:34:10 +0000 Blanco County News Copyright 2014 Blanco County News: Community News. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. <![CDATA[The EmilyAnn Theatre and Garden presents Shakespeare Under the Stars, Richard III]]> By Logan Giberson

Sporting more than twenty years of theatrical excellence, Shakespeare Under the Stars is back at the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens this summer with its production of Richard III. The show runs from July 31st through August 9th nightly at 8:15 p.m., except on Sundays. If you consider yourself a citizen of Wimberley, you’ve probably been to at least a few of these performances. If you haven’t, you had better get down to the EmilyAnn before tickets sell out! These shows fill fast, as people flock from all over Central Texas for a fun night at the outdoor theatre. The shows aren’t just great entertainment, they also serve as a social hotspot for theatre fans and actors alike. What about the show? Great question. Richard III is a tale of a man so twisted and so desperate for the crown that this darkness manifests, changing his appearance. Richard’s physicality becomes as twisted and deformed as his own soul. The show gives insight into one of history’s most complex periods. Taking place in 1484, the play depicts England as it endures a drastic shift of power from one royal lineage to another. The choice to portray the show in its true time can only be described as extremely bold yet immensely rewarding for the cast of high school students. In a time so rife with social conflict, the young but experienced actors have been challenged to reach new depths of character development. The cast strives to reflect the sheer tempestuousness of 1484 in overwhelming detail. The actors and actresses mentioned in interviews that the social conflict drives the play, and not unlike social conflicts today, it affects a whole nation. Part of what makes Richard III so accessible to many audiences is how relatable it is. One actress, Caitlin Iliff, referred to the show as “ironically mainstream” on account of how applicable it is to American society. The play is as much of a political and social commentary today as it was when Shakespeare wrote it. Judgment and prejudice abound as Richard himself guides the audience throughout the show. Viewers are challenged to differentiate between grittiness and beauty as they intersect more often than one might think. In simple words, the actor playing Richard III, Reed Neal, described it best: “the show is a conflict of impulse and logic, and everything in between.” If you are looking for a great night out in Wimberley, then bring your friends and family to Richard III, presented by the EmilyAnn’s own Shakespeare Under the Stars.

Tickets: Thurs - Sat. Adults $15.00 & Students $10.00

Special Midweek Pricing - Mon. - Wed. Adults $10.00 & Students $5.00

Groups of 10 or more attending together $12.00/each

Tickets available online at www.emilyann.org or at the door.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 15:18:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117203/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117203/
<![CDATA[Peter Mangan Wins Calendar Photo Contest]]> By Crystal Spybuck

Hey Kids! Do not miss our Summer Reading Party July 25th at 10:30am. We have been having a blast! Even though our activities will be done, you can continue to collect your prizes until August 9th!

Our 2014 photo contest has concluded and our judges have been busy! We are happy to announce that Peter Mangan is our winner with his photo entitled “Redbud Butterfly.” Our judges felt that his photo had excellent composition, color contrast, aesthetic value, and was a good representation of what makes Blanco unique. Congratulations Mr. Mangan for winning a Kindle! Other photo contest participants will still be represented in our 2015 calendar as a thank you for your submissions and support.

Special Announcement: The 2014 calendars have been reduced to $1. This is an excellent time to pick up a few for the wonderful Hill Country pictures inside!

As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: By Its Cover by Donna Leon, Carnal Curiosity by Stuart Woods, Frog Music by Emma Donoghue, The Girls of Atomic City by Denise Kiernan, The Circle by Dave Eggers.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 14:58:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117195/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117195/
<![CDATA[Sheriff’s Deputy Struck During Traffic Stop]]> From Sgt. Ben Ablon, Investigator

On July 21, 2014 at around 11:30 pm two Blanco County Sheriff’s Deputies stopped a vehicle in Blanco upon observing a traffic violation. The vehicle also matched the description of a suspect in an incident earlier that evening.

The driver, who has been identified as Eduardo Agustin Navarro, had an outstanding warrant for his arrest that was discovered during a routine check.

The deputies were in the process of arresting Navarro, when he jumped back into the vehicle. As the deputies were attempting to remove Navarro from the vehicle, he put the vehicle in drive and pushed the accelerator. One unidentified deputy was struck by the vehicle.

Navarro fled the scene and the vehicle was recovered later.

This morning information was received indicating where Navarro was hiding. Officers from the Blanco County Sheriff’s Office, Blanco Police Department, Johnson City Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety responded. As the officers arrived, Navarro fled on foot and was captured after a short chase. He assaulted another officer during the arrest.

Navarro was taken to the Blanco County Jail on the warrant, with additional charges pending.

The Blanco County Sheriff’s Office wishes to thank the Blanco Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Johnson City Police Department, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, and the Blanco EMS for their assistance in this matter.

The identification and status of the deputy who was struck has not been released by the Sheriff’s Department.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 14:22:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117188/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117188/
<![CDATA[Donations Sought for Critically Injured Teen]]>

Donations are being accepted at Johnson City bank to assist the family of a Blanco County teen who was critically injured in a vehicle accident last week.

Rilee Moser, age 16 of Johnson City is a senior at LBJ High School. She was critically injured Monday July 14th in a one vehicle roll-over on FM 1623 in Gillespie County. Moser was transported by Air Life to University Hospital where she remains in critical condition in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Rilee is the daughter of Sam and Susan Whittington of Johnson City and Scotty Moser of Bulverde.

The fund established at Johnson City bank is designed to help the family with the vast amount of expenses associated with staying with a loved one during a lengthy hospital stay. Money donated to the fund becomes available immediately to the family by way of debit card. Excess funds will be placed in a savings account for the parents to use how they see fit in regards to Rilee’s medical treatment, recovery or rehabilitation.

“There is still a little (money) in the fund, but they are going to need quite a bit more” stated Tina Scott, JC Bank employee and coordinator of the fund.

Letters and cards can be mailed to Rilee and/or her family at University Hospital, Pediatric ICU, c/o Rilee Moser - Room 7113, 4502 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 14:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117187/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117187/
<![CDATA[Don’t Dub a Shot to Support the Family Crisis Center]]>

The Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center is looking for sponsors for the area’s oldest Golf Tournament and Silent Auction

Burnet, Blanco, Llano and Lampasas: Don’t miss out on supporting the Highland Lakes Crisis Center in their Annual Golf Tournament and Silent Auction coming up October 25, 2014 at the Delaware Springs Golf Course in Burnet. The purpose of this benefit tournament is to raise funds in order to continue services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Llano, Burnet, Blanco, and Lampasas counties.

“We are seeking sponsors, donors, and underwriters,” said Phillip Lee, Golf Tournament Director. “This fundraiser is the largest the Crisis Center hosts to raise awareness and support local families in need.”

The Golf Tournament has four levels of sponsorship: Platinum, which is a donation of $1,500 and allows for 8 golfers; Gold, which is a donation of $1,000 and allows for 4 golfers; Silver, which is a donation of $500 and allows for 2 golfers; and Bronze, which is a donation of $250 and allows for 1 golfer. Each sponsor will receive recognition on golf course signage and in the local media during and after the tournament.

A few local businesses have become sponsors so far including The Business Center, Johnson Sewell Ford Lincoln, and Blanco Auto Parts. Additional individual sponsorships include John and Barbara Racz, Brett and Eva Ballard, and Ken and Jean Anderson.

On average the Crisis Center provides free and confidential services to 350 individuals a month, including children, women, and men. Last year, 590 adults received services and over 620 children received services in Blanco, Llano, Burnet, and Lampasas counties. The Crisis Center also answered over 2,000 crisis calls from men, women, and children needing help in 2013.

“We have relied on the community’s support to help local families in need, especially children,” said Alma Lahmon, Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center Executive Director. “By becoming a sponsor or donor for our golf tournament you partner with us in creating safer local communities and support our mission to end domestic and sexual violence, dating violence, and stalking.”

The entry fee is $65 a player, which includes greens fee, cart, refreshments, and hamburger dinner. The deadline to register is October 17, 2014 and is limited to the first 144 players. Golfers should expect fantastic raffles and door prizes this year, including a new car for a Hole In One prize. The silent auction will also have great items from local merchants in which participants can bid. For more information please call (830) 693-3656 and ask for the golf coordinator.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 14:13:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117185/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117185/
<![CDATA[Tim Ross Hired for AgriLife Agent Position in Blanco County]]> By Tricia Hartmann

A Special meeting of the Blanco County Commissioners Court was held on July 22, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse, Johnson City, Blanco County, Texas. All four County Commissioners and Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie attended the Special meeting.

After Judge Guthrie called the meeting to order the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman presented the minutes of the Regular meeting and the Workshop meeting of July 8, 2014. Blanco County Commissioner James Sultemeier approved the minutes of the Regular meeting and County Commissioner Chris Liesmann seconded. A motion for approval of the minutes from the Workshop meeting was made by Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg and seconded by County Commissioner John Wood. There was no discussion, and the minutes were approved as read.

Judge Guthrie asked the Commissioners Court to consider declaring the following items as surplus property and authorization to place the items on GovDeals: Ferguson steel roller, 100 gallon fuel tank, a 10’6” x 6’ cattle guard, and a 1997 Ford pickup truck. Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier gave a motion to place the items on GovDeals and County Commissioner Granberg seconded this motion. No discussion followed, and the motion carried.

The Commissioners were asked to consider acknowledgement of the hiring of Tim Ross by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service for the AgriLife agent position in Blanco County. Kathleen L. Greer, as District Extension Administrator in District 10 for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, introduced Ross.

Greer told the Court, “Tim is from California and he is very excited to begin this position. Please consider him for the position at the current salary and travel allowance.” Greer asked if there were any questions, and Judge Guthrie told the Court he had taken the opportunity to meet Tim Ross and his wife. Judge Guthrie added, “Tim is looking forward to working here. Tim is from California and attended school in Kansas.” Greer added that Ross will serve his first two weeks in his new position in Gillespie County and his first day of work in Blanco County will be on August 21st. A motion to acknowledge the hiring of Tim Ross by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service for the AgriLife agent position in Blanco County was made by Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann and seconded by County Commissioner Granberg. Judge Guthrie called for discussion and there was none. After the County Commissioners approved the motion made by County Commissioner Liesmann Judge Guthrie told Ross, “welcome aboard.”

According to Gretchen Sanders, Blanco County Extension Agent, Tim Ross hails from Chico, California. While in California Ross served as a County Extension Agent and ran a family agriculture business. Ross taught a youth gardening series as part of the educational activities for his Agritainment business. Some of the products Ross grew included pumpkins and the farm also produced homemade jellies. The business conducted wedding events as well. Ross has brought his horse and buggy from California and has already visited Moore’s Buggy Barn Museum. As the AgriLife agent in Blanco County Ross will be working with Blanco County youth livestock and 4-H projects, and with adult education pertaining to agriculture, livestock, and natural resources.

The County Commissioners approved the bond for Ronald Steubing as Constable Precinct Four. A motion to approve was given by Blanco County Commissioner Granberg and seconded by County Commissioner Wood.

Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners Court that the bid for the County employees’ health insurance had come in considerably lower than was expected. According to Judge Guthrie, “the bid is much lower and includes a $20,000 rebate as well. It looks really good.” Blanco County Commissioner Wood made a motion to authorize the County Judge to sign the 2014 Renewal Notice and Benefit Confirmation with TAC for health insurance. County Commissioner Sultemeier seconded the motion. There was no discussion, and the motion was approved.

The Blanco County Commissioners Court was asked to consider the burn ban. Judge Guthrie told the Court, “there have been a few grass fires in the area, and you [the Court] may want to consider the burn ban. According to KVEI we are not in bad shape, but some of the other counties have put burn bans in place.” Blanco County Commissioner Wood spoke up and said that he would make a motion to put the burn ban on until the next County Commissioners Court meeting. Judge Guthrie called for a second but there was none. The motion made by County Commissioner Wood died.

The Commissioners Court considered approval of the outstanding bills in the amount of $560,907.24. Judge Guthrie reported that this amount included payment of bi-annual debt service. Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann gave a motion to approve payment of the bills and County Commissioner Sultemeier seconded. Judge Guthrie asked for discussion and there was none. The motion carried.

The Special meeting ended after a motion to adjourn from Blanco County Commissioner Granberg. The motion to adjourn was seconded by County Commissioner Sultemeier.

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Fri, 25 Jul 2014 14:12:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117184/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117184/
<![CDATA[Scouts Visit Camp Tahuaya]]>

Have you ever wanted to build a robot- or learn wilderness survival- or have lessons on woodcarving? All these activities, plus many more, were offered for a week to scouts recently attending Boy Scout Camp Tahuaya near Lake Belton, TX. Fifteen boys and three adults from Blanco’s Boy Scout Troop 497, sponsored by the Blanco United Methodist Church, attended the fun-filled, busy week. During their time at camp the boys met scouts from other troops, camped in tents, worked on merit badges and participated in activities which encouraged their growth in leadership skills. It was difficult for the scouts to choose which classes to take since such a large variety was offered. Some of the class choices at Camp Tahuaya were swimming, kayaking, photography, rifle shooting, computers, pioneering, graphic arts, digital technology, geology, shotgun shooting and climbing. If you enjoy the out-of-doors, good fellowship and the opportunity to learn new skills while having fun, then contact 918-804-4840 for information concerning Troop 497’s summer schedule of events.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:31:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117141/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117141/
<![CDATA[Retired U.S. Army Chaplain Celebrates Twenty Years of Service as Pastor]]> From Bert Schadee

This year the Chapel In The Cove in Spring Branch, Texas is celebrating the twentieth anniversary of Pastor Doug Groen’s ministry. He is believed to have the longest tenure of any Pastor in the Canyon Lake area. Pastor Groen is a retired U.S. Army Chaplain. Following college and seminary training in the Midwest, Pastor Groen volunteered to become a U.S. Army Chaplain during the Vietnam era, serving overseas in combat with an infantry division. Other tours followed in Korea with another infantry division and joint command. He culminated his military career in a major command position, managing all Army Chaplain medical assets in the U.S. and overseas. The wisdom he gleaned from these tours he transferred to his peers. He became one of the founding fathers for a residency training program for Army Chaplains; he has trained active duty chaplains and civilian clergy. During these years he established and accredited four training centers within the Army, the last being at South Texas Veterans Health Care System in San Antonio. His specialty areas of study include theology, adult education, religious education, clinical pastoral education, and marriage and family therapy. In 1994 he was selected to become the Pastor at the Chapel In The Cove located in Spring Branch, Texas (http://chapelinthecove.org). A sense of faithfulness begins with the choices and commitments we make in life. He exemplifies for our spiritual community the calling and leadership by being with us and among us for twenty years. He knows his people as one who has shepherded people in diverse settings often providing spiritual care to those in crisis experiencing trauma, grief and loss. Pastor Groen has led the Interdenominational church with passion and commitment. His ability to include people from numerous denominations to follow their belief in God and find unity is a testament to his unending guidance in faith. Pastor Groen and Jan, his wife, are the parents of two daughters and four grandsons living in Texas and Ohio. Jan serves as the pipe organist for the military community in San Antonio, Texas.

The Chapel In The Cove was chartered in the 1970s. Started by a few early settlers of the Cypress Cove subdivision, the church grew as it moved from its initial meeting place in the local park to the community’s Civic Center. In 1982 about 20 people began building the church on property donated by the subdivision developer and the chapel was completed in 1983. The Chapel has 15 beautiful stained glass windows dedicated to members and friends.

As an interdenominational, community church, Christians from all denominations come together under the banner of one Lord, one Spirit, and one baptism. The richness of their beliefs, the hospitality of their outreach, and the power of the Holy Spirit working in, through and before them, give the fellowship a unity that witnesses to the nature of the Church.

Please feel free to join the Chapel In The Cove on Sunday mornings. Service starts at 10:00AM. Our address is 3674 Tanglewood Trail in Spring Branch. You can visit our website at chapelinthecove.org.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:26:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117137/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117137/
<![CDATA[Ribbon Cutting Held for Dr. Scott Jurica]]>

The Blanco Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting to welcome Dr. Scott Jurica to Dr. Schramm’s office at 405 Main St on Thursday, July 10.

Dr Scott Jurica, DC, born in Austin and raised in south Texas, grew up around natural and holistic medicine his entire life. Dr Scott Jurica finished his pre-med studies at Texas A&M and his bachelors degree at Southwest Texas (now Texas State) in San Marcos. He then completed Chiropractic School at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, as well as his Masters in Nutrition, in addition to in excess of 500 hours of postgraduate work with some of the most esteemed doctors in the world. While practicing in New York City, he fell in love with another native Texan, got married and started a family. Their son is now a toddler and they knew in their gut, returning home to Texas was inevitable.

Once Dr Scott Jurica was in contact with Dr. Schramm, he knew they were like-minded and this was the right fit. Dr. Schramm is one of the most respected holistic doctors in his field and it will be exciting to partner with him and take what Dr Jurica has learned from practicing in NYC and add Dr. Schramm’s 37+ years of experience.Dr Scott and wife Lisa are thrilled to be back in Texas and Dr. Jurica looks forward bringing his knowledge and passion to each and every patient while working closely with Dr. Schramm.

Dr. Jurica will be available for appointments Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 pm. Call the office at 830-833-0889 or visit www.drkenschramm.com to make an appointment.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:25:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117136/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117136/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Hold Budget Hearing Workshop]]> By Tricia Hartmann

The Blanco County Commissioners Court held a Budget Hearing Workshop meeting on Tuesday, July 8th, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. The meeting was held in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse, Johnson City, Blanco County, Texas. The Workshop meeting was held pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code (the Texas Open Meetings Act). All four County Commissioners and Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie attended the meeting. The line items referenced in this article represent a fluid discussion, or a “work in progress.” These and other line items make up the 2014-2015 Blanco County Proposed Budget. There will be a filing period and a public hearing before the final Budget is adopted in the fall.

Judge Guthrie opened the meeting and asked the County Commissioners to refer to the work copies they had been given. Maggie Goodman and Allen Dean of the Johnson City Library spoke first. The library asked for an increase over last year’s funds. Dean told the Court, “we are increasing our technical facilities. This includes 25 new computers, Wi-Fi, and we partner with the Texas Workforce Commission. We also offer e-books, partnerships with the schools for math and science; we offer a safe place for students who need computer access, and reading programs. We are a vital and vibrant entity offering services to all parts of the community.”

Goodman also spoke to the Commissioners. She said the library wants to increase services and programs for the community, and many of these services are not available elsewhere. At the same time, some grants and endowments are shrinking. Goodman thanked the Commissioners for their consideration, and reminded them, “all these programs are necessary and important to the community.”

Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners that education funds for the County Judge’s office will need to be increased for next year. “A new Judge will take office in November and the training is in Lubbock. The computer I use in my office is my own personal laptop, and there is no computer for the new Judge.”

Judge Guthrie reported that the Blanco County Clerk’s office requested a modest increase for next year’s operating budget, mostly because of the telephone budget. The operating budget for Election Administration costs will be higher for next year because it is an election year.

Blanco County District Clerk Debby Elsbury requested a small operating increase for phones and data usage, saying, “our office is in a crunch situation, not a want.” Elsbury also asked for funding to add either another fulltime staff member, or increased funding for part time help. According to Elsbury, “about 50 reports are due to the State and other entities because of the increased number of criminal cases. A recent audit recommended increasing the number of people working in this office. With just two people, it just doesn’t work.” Elsbury is also concerned about the need to hire and train a new employee because it is likely that she and the other employee will retire in the not too distant future.

Judge Guthrie agreed that the State continues to increase the number of requirements and reports from offices. These requirements increase the number of reports. Elsbury added, “the legislature comes up with more reports, and it is very time consuming.” Judge Guthrie thanked Elsbury for her presentation.

Blanco County Attorney David Hall reported an increase in the cost of supplies and phones, books, and resources. He said that yet another requirement by the State will be e-filing, and this will be difficult to implement. Hall added that the special prosecutor fund is needed, and requested that these funds be kept in the budget. “We are seeing more cases, autopsies, etc.”

Debby Elsbury also commented on the upcoming requirements for e-filing. Elsbury told the Court, “we do not have an IT person. There will be increased costs to handle this [forthcoming e-filing requirements by the State].” Blanco County Commissioner James Sultemeier asked if money should be allocated now to assist with upgrades to handle the costs of e-filing. Elsbury replied that because e-filing is not required until 2016, any computer updates today would be obsolete by then. Judge Guthrie agreed, “the new requirements will create a snowball effect, and these increased costs by 2016 should be expected.”

Judge Guthrie reported that the Blanco County Tax Assessor/Collector foresees no increase in operating costs for next year. Blanco County Sheriff Bob Morgan said, “all is good but employee salaries. I would like to request a five percent increase across the board. We need to increase these salaries. Training is expensive, and our salaries are below several other counties.” The proposed budget for the Sheriff’s Department included modest increases for education and uniforms, and decreases for automotive expense and medical expense for inmates. Sheriff Morgan added that a new deputy position has been added to the new budget. Judge Guthrie told Morgan, “we will take note of these items but it’s all discussion right now. Thank you for your presentation.”

The Blanco County Treasurer’s office requested an increase for supplies and computer operations for next year. According to Judge Guthrie, “the County Auditor’s budget is set by the District Judge. We see an increase in costs for computer operations and dues.” Indigent health care requested the same funding as last year, with no increase.

It was reported by Judge Guthrie that Emergency Management has seen a reduction in expenses, “in part because we no longer have a Motorola maintenance agreement.” The District Judge budget foresees a significant decrease in funding for next year. The District Attorney reported that much of his operating budget is contingent on grants. He added that his office is looking into a contract lawyer for the appellate court because there are so many more trials. “The need exists for a special prosecutor for sex abuse cases because this area has one of the highest rates for sex abuse; it is twice the State average.” Juvenile Probation asked for an increase in funds over last year, and these were mostly for salary increases.

Reports were given for Community Services groups, State agencies, non-departmental budgets, Justice of the Peace offices, Constables, County inspectors, and others. These groups asked for mostly modest increases because of increased operating costs.

Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners that the County has given substantial amounts to each County Precinct for paving projects during the past year; therefore he does not foresee how to give more money to the roads and bridges budgets for next year. Judge Guthrie reported that fund requests for independent auditors and Blanco County Appraisal District were lower for next year. “The lower funding requests are because the law library has increased online use and there is no need to maintain it. The Blanco County Appraisal District has informed us there will be an increase in tax revenue for next year, although we do not have the final figures yet.” The budget workshop also included discussion of County Revenues for next year.

Funding request for the Blanco County Recycle Center was higher for next year. Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg said, “the glass pulverizer has gotten some age and we are seeing more maintenance issues. As people utilize the center more there is also an increase in personnel to maintain it.”

As the discussion turned to salaries, Judge Guthrie told the assembly, “I would like to propose an across the board five percent increase for all [County] employees. We have held the line for the last few years and new properties with fairly large amounts of revenue are reported by the Appraisal District. We did really well on our last Audit, and we have these funds because of our employees and elected officials.”

Judge Guthrie added, “We can pay for the raise. I think we can fund this budget with a five percent salary increase.” He asked for comments, and Blanco County Commissioner Chris Liesmann replied, “we will look at it [proposed costs] and all the line items.” Judge Guthrie replied, “this is my proposal…we will get to the bottom line of the operating budget and can refigure salaries if needed.”

The question of health insurance for County employees was raised. Judge Guthrie replied, “we are very fortunate. We were told there would be a 10% increase and we just heard it is 3.5%.” Judge Guthrie asked for additional questions or comments, and there were none. The Workshop meeting ended with a motion to adjourn by Blanco County Commissioner John Wood. This motion was seconded by County Commissioner Granberg.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:16:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117130/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117130/
<![CDATA[Soccer Field Contruction Underway at Yett Park]]>
By Danilea Wiedman

During the 1940’s, when the property of Yett Park was “officially” deeded to the Blanco Chamber of Commerce, the Yett family had only a few stipulations. One of the most important was that it benefit and support the community. With the new addition of The Blanco Youth Soccer Association’s soccer fields, these wishes will extend far beyond the bounds of the City of Blanco and Blanco County, bringing youth and community together in grand style.

The Blanco Youth Soccer Association has practiced and played on the property of Security State Bank & Trust for the last several years. Without this privilege, the Association would not have had the opportunity to grow as it has, and because of this, it now requires larger grounds to practice and play on. Robert Seymour, Vice-President of The Blanco Youth Soccer Association expressed his deepest gratitude to Security State Bank & Trust. “We wouldn’t have made it without them”, he said. “We also would not be here if it was not for the generosity of Dirt Works; they are volunteering to take on the incredible project of leveling the ground.”

Although construction is underway, it won’t be until next year before games can be held at Yett Park. The main field will be regulation size, allowing for youth up to age 17 to play, “I am excited to see the older youth have an opportunity to play on a regulation size field. I am even more excited with the hopes and anticipation of a Traveling League team to include Johnson City and Blanco youth. Right now they have to go to Dripping Springs or Austin.” Seymour said.

In addition to the main field, there is the possibility of two other practice fields; their location is to be determined in the future.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:16:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117131/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117131/
<![CDATA[LCRA and PEC Award $25,000 to Courthouse for Masonry Repair]]>
LCRA and PEC present a $25,000 grant to the Old Blanco County Courthouse Preservation Society to repair masonry and stone on the building’s exterior. This grant is part of the LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program. Pictured, in the front row, from left to right, are: Diana Gonzales, PEC representative; Carolyn Boydson, Society advisor; Richard Giron, Society vice president; and Jim Harris, Society president. Back row: Tom Martine, LCRA Board member; Andree Barnes, Society board member; and Karen Rankin, LCRA representative.
From LCRA

The Old Blanco County Courthouse Preservation Society will be able to repair masonry and stone on the building’s exterior, thanks to a $25,000 community development grant.

The Lower Colorado River Authority and Pedernales Electric Cooperative provided the grant to repair and replace mortar and stone in critical areas of the old courthouse on Blanco’s downtown square. The preservation society began an effort to save the Texas historic landmark in 1986. The preservation society is responsible for purchasing, renovating and operating the courthouse.

“The old Blanco County Courthouse is considered a legacy in our community,” said Richard J. Giron, vice president of the preservation society Board. “We’re doing everything possible to continue its structural integrity, its place in history and its beauty as an integral part of the City of Blanco, not only for our residents, but for visitors and generations to follow.”

As the building ages, cracked stone and large holes in the masonry compromise the exterior of the courthouse and structure of the building. The masonry repairs will stop water from entering the building in and around the windows, which has damaged the structure.

“This grant plays an instrumental part in the ongoing, daunting task of preserving this magnificent building,” Giron said.

Maintaining the integrity and historic value of the building is complex when stone and mortar on the exterior of the building need to be repaired or replaced. But the work is important: A survey report for the National Register of Historic Places calls the courthouse “one of the finest examples of courthouse architecture from the late 19th century in Texas.”

The historic courthouse is a popular site for visitors, as well as weddings, seminars, special events and outdoor events. In 2013, the building hosted 3,742 visitors and 42 events.

The community grant is one of a number of grants recently awarded through LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program. The program provides economic development and community assistance grants to cities, counties, volunteer fire departments, regional development councils and other nonprofit organizations in LCRA’s electric and water service areas. The program is part of LCRA’s effort to give back to the communities it serves. Pedernales Electric Cooperative is one of LCRA’s wholesale electric customers and a partner in the grant program.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117129/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117129/
<![CDATA[City Council Approves Purchase of Radios for City Hall, Police Department]]> By Pricilla Seals

At their regular meeting on July 8, members of the governing body of Blanco discussed purchasing radios for the mayor and city hall to monitor emergencies. The mayor had complained that he has no communication with police and fire departments and can only talk to the Blanco State Park. After input from the Blanco Volunteer Fire Department about their new radios, the decision was made to buy higher-quality radios for better communication in case of a catastrophic event, but to buy two instead of three, for a total of $7500.

Economic development consultant Mike Barnes gave his final report on the research he did in conjunction with Adams Engineering to find ways to fund the Streetscape Project. Barnes was hired by the city in 2013 to develop a timeline and plan for three phases of the project but admitted that after extensive research in conjunction with Langford and Associates, the city’s grant writer, “There is no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow,” and that the city will have to pay for the project if it is a priority. His recommendations included growing the Blanco economy since more property tax revenue is needed. He also suggested that the city investigate Chapter 380 agreements for re-investment of incoming funds. City Attorney Eddy Rogers asked Barnes to give the city a copy of all research “so we don’t have to re-invent the wheel” as the project progresses, and Barnes said that he had already sent the documents as attachments. A letter from Streetscape chair Jack Twilley has been submitted formally dissolving the contract with Mike Barnes. In other Streetscape business, Twilley has asked for an estimate from the architect who is working on the façade of the Blanco National Bank and beautification of the sidewalk in front of it for the cost of extending that project the length of the sidewalk on the north side of the square.

Fire Chief Ron Sallman reported that the department answered 16 calls in June, with an average response time of seven minutes, 32 seconds. He said the fire trucks now have extrication equipment that works. Lieutenant Bridges explained the Knox Box system, which the department advocates for public buildings and businesses in Blanco. Similar to a lockbox on a house, the box would be installed on the building, with keys inside it to unlock the building. The fire department could access the box with its own key, speeding up the process of entering a burning building without beating down doors or waiting for someone to show up with a key. According to Chief Sallman, the system, which is used in Comal County, is “a well-used, tried-and-true system.” The entity which uses the system would have to buy it, but Sallman said merchants have seen their insurance rates go down because of having one. A city ordinance could be passed to require merchants and public buildings to have one. Mayor Homan asked Chief Sallman to request a sales representative to make a presentation to council. Chief Sallman also asked council for permission to replace the old, unreadable “No Parking” signs in front of the fire department on Pecan Street. He said an anonymous donor has donated money for new signs. He also requested permission to put up signs on Fifth Street across from where trucks exit the fire department garage, since they have to take extra time to maneuver around parked cars. Council approved both requests.

Police Chief Mike Ritchey reported that calls were up about ten per cent in June, but that traffic enforcement is down about 30 per cent. He said he will talk to officers about that. He requested that the city re-write its old fireworks ordinance requiring fireworks stands to be erected farther from other buildings in case of explosions. Eddy Rogers said he would work with Ritchey to have something ready for council approval by the next meeting. Chief Ritchey also requested permission to buy a new desktop computer with funds coming in from traffic citations. Mayor Homan said no action was needed on Ritchey’s request since it does not require funds from the city. Ritchey reported that he has brought four new reserve officers on board in order to allow the regular officers to use vacation time they have accrued. Ty Grenwelge, Darren Ellis, and Keith Williamson will assume their duties after completing field training.

Chief Ritchey said he will also be developing a best Practices and Recognition Program to set down in writing the protocols that officers should follow. He said that when officers adhere to them, the department’s liability is lowered. Council member Maria Guerrero, a Boerne police officer, agreed, “It takes a lot of time, but it makes it more uniform.” Chief Ritchey is also investigating the purchase of a new vehicle—a Tahoe Special Services Vehicle, for $27K, on which equipment could be installed from other police vehicles which are no longer serviceable. He said that the department is earning $15/hour for working for TxDOT on road construction, having a police vehicle in place at the construction now taking place on Highway 165. The department has earned $2100 in the last ten days and anticipates continuing to work for the duration of the project, which is expected to last another year. Members of the audience who travel that road groaned to hear that news.

Public Works Director Nathan Cantrell notified council that will be buying a new utility truck for $30K and was told that he does not need council approval if the money is in his budget. Discussion of a contract for removal of dirt for irrigation purposes was tabled pending approval of a new waste water permit for the city.

In the Public Comments portion of the meeting, Keep Blanco Beautiful spokesperson Retta Martin asked for a pledge from the city to help fund underground wiring for the Christmas lights in Bindseil Park. Mayor Homan said she would need to present an amount to the city during the budget process in August. She also reiterated that KBB members are no longer physically able to lay out all the extension cords to power the Christmas displays. Council member Al Turner responded that the volunteer fire department has agreed to help KBB run the cords, but that she needs to make a list for them. She responded that KBB members will be there to supervise. Chief Sallman added that they will be happy to help.

Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau Director Libbey Aly expressed her thanks to the mayor, the police chief, and the fire chief for all their help during the recent Blanco Lavender Festival in June. She apologized for confusion about the street closures she had requested for the Lavender Festival. Mayor Homan said that the city is working with TxDOT on getting help for managing traffic coming and out of Yett Park at next year’s festival.

In his comments, Mayor Homan also thanked police and fire departments for their help during the Lavender Festival. “I believe the festival went really well,” he said.

Following Executive Session, council members voted to remove probation status for City Secretary Kristi Walker.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:13:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117128/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117128/
<![CDATA[Blanco National Begins Outer Renovations]]>
Virtual Design of the new façade for Blanco National Bank.
Courtesy of Blanco National Bank.
From Blanco National Bank

Blanco National Bank management has wanted to update the exterior of the Blanco office for several years but the time was never right. This year rotting wood was discovered in the wood posts and awning in front of the Home Office building next door to the bank. Management decided to bring in architect John Klein to design a new façade for the main building that would also incorporate a replacement awning for the Home Office. Klein, of Stehling Klein Thomas Architects in Fredericksburg, has designed all three branch buildings for the bank.

Besides the small Home Office awning, another awning will run the length of the bank building facing Fourth Street. This, together with benches along the wall and large planters providing additional seating, should make walking the square more pleasant. The sidewalk will also be replaced and there will be a stone entryway into the building, directing visitors through double glass doors that include an automatic opener. During renovation, visitors will enter the bank through a temporary entrance routed through the Home Office.

Klein and bank management obtained approval from the Blanco Historical Committee for this project and have also consulted with the Streetscape Committee in an effort to incorporate its plan into the bank’s design.

Duecker Construction, the Stonewall company that has built the bank’s three branches, is doing the renovations. Construction has begun and is anticipated to last through September.

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Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:08:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117127/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117127/
<![CDATA[12th Annual Spangle Dangle Celebration “Best One Yet”]]>
Photo by Willard Gibbons
By Danilea Wiedman

This year’s Spangle Dangle Celebration was held at the Blanco County Fairgrounds over the 4th of July weekend.

Festivities began Friday afternoon with the hope of what would soon prove to be, ‘The Best One Yet!’ Mr. Spangle Dangle himself, Dale Hardy of Johnson City, was more than pleased with the day’s festivities and growing support. Patriots from near and far began arriving two hours before the gates opened.

You could feel the excitement all around, the immeasurable sense of appreciation and gratitude held by all, for all. Yes, the 4th of July, 2014 was an excellent evening here in the Hill Country.

All Photos by Willard Gibbons.

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Fri, 11 Jul 2014 14:47:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117037/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117037/
<![CDATA[Blanco Team Takes Second in Washer Tournament]]>
1st Place Winners, David Perez (left) and George Comacho (right).
Photo by Danilea Wiedman
By Danilea Wiedman

This year’s winners of the Spangle Dangle Celebration and Washer Tournament held on Saturday, July 5, 2014 with eighteen very competitive teams from all around the Central Texas Hill Country. One team remained undefeated from the very first washer tossed to the very last.

A brilliant pairing of two outstanding players - David Perez of Lampasas, and George Comacho of Granite Shoals, never played as partners until this tournament. When Perez’s regular partner and teammate was a no show, he turned to George Comacho, a second generation champion. From the beginning, this duo controlled the day, remaining undefeated to eventually take first place.

Second place went to Julian Mancha and Luis Garcia of Blanco. Third place went to Coach Lewis Jenkins and former student, LeRoy Martinez of Johnson City.

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Fri, 11 Jul 2014 14:43:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117036/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117036/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Decide to Wait on Environmental Impact Study for Middle Creek Bridge]]> By Tricia Hartmann

The Blanco County Commissioners Court met in a Regular meeting on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. The meeting was held in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse, Johnson City, Blanco County, Texas. All four County Commissioners and Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie attended the Regular meeting.

Blanco County Commissioner John Wood led the Court in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman presented the minutes from the Special meeting of June 24, 2014. The minutes were approved as read after Blanco County Commissioner Chris Liesmann gave a motion to accept and County Commissioner Paul Granberg seconded. No discussion followed, and the motion carried.

Paving bids for Precincts One, Two, Three, and Four were received by the Court. Each of the Commissioners reviewed the bids submitted for their respective precincts. After reviewing the bids for Precinct One, County Commissioner Wood gave a motion to accept the paving bid by Big Tex Paving. The motion was seconded by County Commissioner Granberg. Blanco County Commissioner James Sultemeier made a motion to accept the paving bid for Precinct Two from Big Tex Paving, and County Commissioner Liesmann seconded. Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann gave a motion to approve the paving bid for $222,469.65 in Precinct Three. This motion was seconded by County Commissioner Granberg. Commissioner Granberg reviewed the bids for Precinct Four and made a motion to accept the bid from Big Tex Paving in the amount of $36,139.68. All motions were approved by the Court with no discussion.

Blanco County Commissioner Granberg told the Court that the firm of Blanton & Associates would contract for an environmental impact study for the Middle Creek Bridge project not to exceed a cost of $5,500. The proposal by Blanton & Associates is a written version and there are some verbal proposals as well. The proposals were collected to allow the County Commissioners to gather numbers for costs. According to Commissioner Granberg, “the proposal will cover all to be done in an environmental impact study like this…we were told it is not really necessary to do but we feel it is in the County’s best interests.” Blanco County Commissioner Granberg made a motion to approve an environmental impact study for the project not to exceed $5,500. Commissioner Liesmann seconded the motion and Judge Guthrie called for discussion or questions.

A discussion followed and County Commissioner Sultemeier asked if the money for the study was in the budget. Commissioner Granberg answered that it [the study] would be an additional expense and different line items to the budget would be reviewed. County Commissioner Wood recommended that, “we hold off for now until we know if we have the funds for the study.” Commissioner Granberg recommended that the study not be signed off on yet, but that all else is in place. Commissioner Granberg agreed that the budget would come first and the study would be completed when it is known if the money is available. County Commissioner Liesmann agreed that the Court pass and wait for authority to bid the project first, and prior to construction of bridge and approaches.

County Commissioner Granberg said, “no construction until all is completed. We want to let people who are concerned know that we will look at the environmental impact and get the numbers.” Commissioner Granberg added, “we may possibly shop costs, and look at the environmental study before project construction begins.” The motion to authorize for an environmental impact study for the Middle Creek Bridge project was withdrawn by County Commissioner Granberg.

Judge Guthrie asked if anyone in the audience wished to speak regarding the proposed Middle Creek Bridge project. Several residents who attended the meeting said they wished to speak to the Court about the proposed Middle Creek Bridge project.

Al Niece has worked in equipment construction for many years and was the first to address the Commissioners Court. Niece told the Court, “I am glad you have tabled [this bridge proposal] regarding an environmental bid. How did Middle Creek get put in front of the five to six projects referenced in the Blanco County Transportation and Economic Plan? What happened? We have issues on County Road 407 where a death occurred.” Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier answered that the study included studies of roads and bridges on State roads, not County roads.

Concerned resident Virginia Russell spoke to the Court next. Russell said, “I too am glad that the study is tabled. We want you to know that the proposed site has already been compromised. I have pictures to show this and I will share them with you.” Chris Faught also spoke to the County Commissioners. Faught told the Commissioners, “if you have an environmental study done we will also hire an environmental Consultant regarding the rules and laws at issue. Middle Creek is subject to several laws, and these include State and Federal laws. These laws protect our natural resources.” Faught went on to name several agencies who are involved in the enforcement of these laws. He ended by saying, “we are here to help the County and make sure that if construction is done it is done properly and all laws are applied. We will check for compliance of them.”

Stephanie Morgan also spoke to the Court regarding the proposed Middle Creek Bridge project. Morgan told the Court, “I am a permanent full time resident of the area and there is negative impact. We have safety concerns…it is a bad idea. There is fast traffic on this narrow road and there are blind spots.” Morgan continued, “I have met many of my neighbors during this process, and most of them are peaceful people, it is why we are here. We are united. We do not want to keep anyone out. Yes, there are safety issues. Why are there no warning signs or flood gauges?” County Commissioner Granberg said the same signs are at all the creek crossings. Morgan replied that the residents recommend a more modest approach. “If the project has been discussed for 14 years what other County actions are on record?” Commissioner Granberg answered there was discussion [of the project] in regards to the County budget. Morgan ended by saying, “I ask that you consider my comments as food for thought…this is an inappropriate project for Middle Creek.”

Keith Hickman asked the County Commissioners, “where did the money come from for this bridge? Is it from individuals, trusts, corporations, or County tax dollars?” County Commissioner Granberg answered the money was from the road and bridge fund. Hickman asked, “tax dollars?” The discussion period ended at this time, and Judge Guthrie said, “we will pass with no action at this meeting.”

The County Commissioners considered discussion of the importance of procedural compliance of the Purchase Order Policy and approval of non-compliant purchases as recommended by the County Attorney. Blanco County Auditor Cindy Lent and Judge Guthrie addressed the Court regarding this matter. Lent told the Court there are two steps that must be followed for approval of a purchase. She said the opinion of the County Attorney is that it is best to pay it [invoice]. “But all follow statutes.”

Judge Guthrie told the Court, “this is a new procedure. There are to be no purchases without a purchase order (P.O.) first. All must be done in the proper order and approved by me. The item under discussion is a $729 part for the glass pulverizer. The County Attorney has recommended payment, but we must have a P.O. before making a purchase.” Lent added that there are provisions for emergency situations. County Commissioner Granberg gave a motion for approval of the non-compliant purchase as recommended by the County Attorney. This motion was seconded by County Commissioner Wood. No discussion followed, and the motion passed.

The Court also considered appointment to the Constable Precinct Four position to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Ty Grenwelge. Judge Guthrie told the Court there are three candidates under consideration for the appointment. Blanco County Commissioner Wood said that all three candidates are well qualified and experienced. County Commissioner Wood made a motion to appoint Ronald Steubing to fill the Constable Precinct Four position recently vacated. County Commissioner Granberg seconded Commissioner Wood’s motion. Judge Guthrie asked for additional comments or discussion and there was none. The motion carried.

Judge Guthrie asked the Court to consider Resolution opposing the proposed new rule to define “waters of the United States” as defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the United States Army Corp of Engineers. Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners, “Blanco County has not really been affected by the proposed new rule, but our western neighbors have been. There are real problems with the Environmental Protection Agency’s new definition of waters, and the proposal vastly expands the Federal Clean Water Act. Other counties in the State have asked to look at opposing the proposed new rule.”

Judge Guthrie added that the rule means agencies make rules, and not by the legislative process. Blanco County Commissioner Sultemier gave a motion to accept Resolution opposing the proposed new rule and County Commissioner Liesmann seconded. No discussion followed and the motion was approved.

The Commissioners Court approved the estimated July 2014 payroll in the amount of $257,991.03. A motion for approval was made by County Commissioner Liesmann and seconded by Commissioner Wood. The official reports were also approved after a motion from County Commissioner Wood and seconded by Commissioner Sultemeier. The last item on the Agenda was approval of the outstanding bills for $73,684.10. Judge Guthrie said if there were any questions regarding the outstanding bills these could be asked of Blanco County Auditor Cindy Lent and Blanco County Treasurer Camille Swift. A motion to approve the outstanding bills was presented by County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by Commissioner Granberg. No discussion followed, and the motion was approved.

The Regular meeting ended after a motion to adjourn and seconded by Commissioners Sultemeier and Liesmann, respectively. The Court adjourned until 10 a.m. The Court would reconvene at 10 a.m. to hold a Workshop meeting pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code (the Texas Open Meetings Act). Coverage of the Workshop meeting will run in the July 16th edition of the Blanco County News.

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Fri, 11 Jul 2014 14:41:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/117035/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/117035/
<![CDATA[PEC Encourages Members to Help Co-op “Beat the Peak”]]> From PEC

Pedernales Electric Cooperative’s power costs accounted for 67.5 percent of the Co-op’s total operating expenses in 2013. PEC members can help reduce those wholesale power costs by participating in the Co-op’s Beat the Peak program.

The Cooperative pays a higher price for electricity purchased from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day from June through September, when demand for electricity is highest. The Beat the Peak program encourages members to shift energy use away from that peak period, and more than 15,000 PEC members have already enrolled.

The Beat the Peak program is free, voluntary and gives Co-op members the opportunity to reduce PEC’s costs. Co-op members can help Beat the Peak by shifting their electric use away from peak hours by taking simple steps between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. such as:

• Raising the thermostat by 3 degrees.

• Shifting hot water use – laundry, dishwashing, etc.

• Avoiding use of major appliances.

“Every year participation in Beat the Peak has grown, and that’s a sign to us that members are interested in ways to manage and conserve their energy consumption,” said the executive sponsor of the program, PEC’s Vice President of Communications & Business Services Michael Racis. “I encourage our members to join the Beat the Peak program and learn how to more efficiently manage their energy use.”

The Beat the Peak program runs through Sept. 30, and members interested in volunteering to Beat the Peak can join online at www.pec.coop, by calling 1-888-554-4732 and speaking to a representative or by visiting any PEC office. More detailed information about the Beat the Peak program is available at www.pec.coop/BeatThePeak. All members enrolled in the program on or by Sept. 30 are entered into a drawing to win an Energy Star washing machine or one of 10 Nest Learning Thermostats.

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Thu, 03 Jul 2014 14:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116942/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116942/
<![CDATA[12th Annual Spangle Dangle Celebration is Finally Here]]> By Josh Gissel

It’s time for the 12th annual Spangle Dangle event in Johnson City. According to Spangle Dangle organizer, Dale Hardy, this year is going to be the most exciting two day event yet.

Mostly it’s about the sounds, a breeze whipping the flags around the Blanco County courthouse, and the whistle and pop of backyard pyrotechnics, which usher in the annual commotion of small-town excitement served up American-style in Johnson City.

Folks come from around the area to fill up on a large helping of that small-town flavor. Our local Spangle Dangle Celebration is a present-day revival of what makes this country great — a reunion for all of us who hold dear the pure pleasures of a simpler time, community spirit and tasty goodness that is deep fried.

Vendors strategically place themselves around the Blanco County fairgrounds offering their various samples of Americana ranging from steamy hot dogs, and the always classic hamburgers with fries. There will also be other crowd favorites, such as smoked corn and steak on a stick, cherry snow cones and billows of cotton candy, which drive parents to spit on napkins and wipe sticky, pink residue from children’s faces.

It is important to note that no ice chests are permitted at the fairgrounds during the festivities this year.

One can already hear the squeak and crunch of folding chairs being set up on gravel as parade-goers find their preferred viewing spots – some folks claim their same spot year after year as part of their family tradition. This year the Spangle Dangle 2014 Fourth of July Parade will take place on Saturday, July 5th at 10 am.

Parade participants will begin setting up at 9 am on Pecan Street in front of the First United Methodist Church of Johnson City. At 10 am, the forward-ho will cry out, as the floats make their way along the parade route. The route will begin at the corner of LBJ Drive and East Pecan Avenue and then travel west to Nugent Avenue. It will then make a right around the Blanco County Courthouse and then head east on Cypress Street leading back to LBJ Drive.

People will stand and remove their hats as a color guard passes. Engines purr as the classic cars roll by, while proud owners smile and wave to the crowd. The distinctive clatter of hoof-clops will follow, as riders mosey on by via horseback.

Young children will wait in anticipation of the floats coming, especially the ones that throw out candy, and they’ll squeal in delight when some sugary goodness lands at their feet.

The Spangle Dangle parade remains charmingly the same as it has in years past. We wouldn’t have it otherwise — knowing that we have farmers on classic tractors, handmade floats with waving children, and family memories in the making.

For the second year in a row, Spangle Dangle organizer, Dale Hardy, is encouraging kiddos under the age of 18 to dress in a patriotic costume and bring their pets dressed the same way. “If you both dress in your best red, white and blue costume – we’re going to give a trophy for the best dressed kid and pet!” he said. Pets include anything from dogs, cats, pigs, horses, cows, chickens, goats or lambs, or possibly a younger sibling.

Awards will be given to the top three floats, as well as the “Most Patriotic Float,” and the “Most Patriotic Youth/Animal Combo Presentation.”

In order for your float to win a trophy, you can fill out an entry form online prior to the event or you can submit one early that morning before the parade begins. You can get the form from Dale Hardy via email at spangledangle2013@gmail.com.

Following the parade, registration will open at 1:00 pm for the annual Washer Pitching Tournament.

Throughout the weekend Trolley Rides will be available for those both young and old between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm. A small donation fee will be required per rider, but the funds will go to support the Spangle Dangle Organization and the Buggy Barn Museum.

As participants pull into the fairgrounds on the evening of the Fourth of July, youngsters will be provided with little American flags to wave around during the traditional fireworks program. The program will begin at approximately 9:15 pm. It will start with a Color Guard presentation, posting of the Colors, Amazing Grace, Pledge of Allegiance, Invocation, Singing of the Star Spangle Banner, followed by another awesome display of fireworks to the tune of patriotic music. The actual pyrotechnic portion of the program was written specifically for the Spangle Dangle celebration.

But the fun doesn’t end just on July fourth. The same fireworks program will repeat on Saturday, July 5th as well.

Since 2008, the Spangle Dangle celebration has always included local bands to perform at these celebrations, and this year is no different. Local country singer/songwriter Scooter Pearce will be performing on July Fourth from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm.

On Saturday, July 5th, Bobby Beal and his crew will keep the party going from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm as well. There will be other music performers sharing in the fun both nights from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm with breaks in between for the firework shows.

This year the good folks from the Antique Engine and Tractor Pull organization have teamed up with Spangle Dangle and they will be showcasing their medium and small sled pull tractors for an exhibition from 7 pm to 9 pm on Saturday night at the fairgrounds, just before the fireworks program begins.

After the fairgrounds have emptied, and the lawn chairs are stowed, periodic pops and sizzles from diehard firework enthusiasts signal the finish to a perfect weekend. Eventually, we’ll return home and fall asleep, perchance to dream of winning the Washer Pitching Tournament next year.

It’s all a part of what makes living in small town, rural Texas, great.

Happy Independence Day, America.

To learn more information about the Spangle Dangle Celebration in Johnson City, visit their website at www.spangledangle.com.

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Thu, 03 Jul 2014 14:06:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116939/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116939/
<![CDATA[Tejas Art Club Display on Through July]]>

June 14 was Flag Day and the Tejas Art Club is having a display at the Blanco Library to commemorate this occasion and 4th of July. Visit the display at the Library and see the flags painted by members of the Club.

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Thu, 03 Jul 2014 13:59:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116938/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116938/
<![CDATA[Welcome Home: An American Tribute to Vietnam Veterans]]>
Tay Ninh Province-A moment to relax in the jungle.
Taken in 1970 by Jim Holcome, 1st Cav., 2nd. Bn., 5th Cav.
By Keith J. McClellan

His father graduated from West Point in 1930; his brother in 1955. Ross Lewis is proud to be the product of a West Point family. He, too, is a soldier of the United States of America having served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968 during which time he served as a Signal Corp platoon leader near the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea from 1967 to 1968. “Since then,” said Ross, “there has not been a day in my life that I have not thought about my time in Korea. For me it was a defining experience at a young age. It has grown, over the years, to galvanize my love for the United States and the privilege it was for me to serve my country.”

Ross Lewis passed through Blanco County in April of this year and spent some time at the home of Gene and LaVada Triesch on the banks of the beautiful Blanco River. Gene and Ross were stationed together in South Korea with the 7th Infantry Division. For Gene and LaVada he signed a book that he has published entitled, “Welcome Home/A Monument of Honor” that pays tribute to the Vietnam Veteran. “It is not a book about the Vietnam War, nor the politics, nor the ‘rights or wrongs’ of the decisions and strategies which were made regarding the United States’ involvement in Southeast Asia. Instead, Welcome Home/A Monument of Honor is about the fabric of the American military people, ordinary citizens who served our country as best they could.

“They came from every corner of America: big cities, small towns, urban and rural surroundings. They grew up as dreamers, athletes, scouts, and builders of model airplanes. No matter where they were born, they all had common bonding qualities. They had hearts. They had families. They had fears. They were young men and women of fiber, feelings, apprehensions, valor and dedication.

“Many had no defined direction in their lives. Others had personal ‘blueprints’ for success. Most had little understanding of the Vietnam War. Others were eager to fight Communism. And still others were simply dutifully following orders which placed them in an unknown land, foreign to anything they had ever known and experienced. Yet, the substance and ever-present bond for all of them remained: they were dedicated human beings who, despite their many varied opinions and points of view, felt a sense of loyalty to our country and ‘gave it their all’ while serving in Vietnam.”

A couple of years ago in the Blanco Historic Cemetery, a simple ceremony was held to honor our American veterans. In attendance were men and women who had served in World II, Korea, the Middle East, Bosnia and Vietnam. When the program ended, a veteran of Vietnam approached the organizers and, with a tear in his eye, thanked them. “Do you realize that that was the first time since I returned from Vietnam that I have been recognized for my service?”

Because Vietnam was, and still is to some extent, an unpopular war, those who served there, instead of returning to heroes’ welcomes, have often been vilified as “the bad guys.” Ross Lewis set out to rectify some misconceptions.

After his military service, Ross travelled the world as a professional photographer. In 1993 he developed the Special Eyes on the Environment or “SEE” program for children with disabilities. These special youngsters came from both public and private schools and most had multiple disabilities. The children were provided cameras and rolls of film and embarked on field trips during which they were to take pictures of “the beauty and the blemishes that you see.” Without any further instructions they took the pictures. “I would just stand back and provide the film,” said Ross.

“You would not believe the black and white photos! They were as if they had been taken by semi-professionals. The SEE program became an instrument for building self-esteem and confidence. We exhibited the pictures extensively for the public and they attracted the attention of civic and educational leaders and public figures. The kids presented without any fear and they would speak about their love for the beauties of God’s world and of the damage being perpetuated upon it. There were no disabilities there!”

From that humble beginning came the inspiration for Ross Lewis’ book. Most of the men and women who served in Vietnam carried cameras. “The essence of photography,” says Ross “is spiritual. It’s about your connection with the outside world and the spirit of the people. It’s like music, it comes from within.”

“This book is constructed around the personal, sensitive, non-combat photographs of the soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen during their moments of pause in their often-dangerous missions. Their wonderful lasting images were not just ‘passing accidents’ from unskilled photographers. On the contrary, their poignant, decisive moments of concentration captured a detailed tapestry of Vietnam during the 1960’s and 70’s. Their soft, gentle images reveal their inner souls which were always present despite the circumstances.

“Perhaps it would be a quiet moment in a beautiful landscape or village. Or it could be a picture of a child who gazed into the soldier’s lens without hesitation or fear. Conversely, it could be a photograph of the horror of the aftermath of battle, or a moment of exhausted rest in the ever-threatening jungle. These photographs are the subtle, yet powerful untold stories of the Vietnam War, which graphically communicate the hearts of the people who served there. The pictures, in concert with the veterans’ biographies, define the profound humanity of these Americans.”

Mr. Lewis was sure that “the photographs of the gentle souls of our soldiers and sailors and airmen” were lodged in attics, basements and garages throughout the United States. “Traveling 20,000 miles through 14 states, from Massachusetts to Arkansas,” said Lewis, “I have had the extreme privilege to personally visit, interview and collect the photographs of 62 veterans, of which 29 are featured in this book.” Every story told in the book is unique. Some stories recount the personal horrors of the men who faced death at every minute. Other stories speak of those who were in less dangerous, yet ever-challenging environments which had a lasting impact upon their lives. Each of the stories reflects the essence which exists within all human beings.

The real story, according to Ross Lewis, is that they were just “regular guys from cities and towns all over this country. Not that they believed in the cause, but that they believed in our country. The real truth about who they really are came out of the pictures taken by those boys. They are reflections of their souls.”

“This country needs a profound healing,” said Mr. Lewis. “When the Vietnam veterans came back, they were scorned—like a mother rejecting her sons and telling them they’re bad. Some said that they have never forgotten being scorned when they came home. However, their amateurish pictures show their true hearts and who they really are.” When interviewed by Mr. Lewis, seventy percent of them broke down in tears, saying they never before had the confidence or felt they had the right to tell their stories. They each expressed their appreciation for what Mr. Lewis was doing.

The final account in the book was given by Randy Smith of the U.S. Marine Corps. He participated in the final, never-forgotten, historic episode of the Vietnam War in April of 1975. He was assigned to protect the American Embassy in Saigon and played a major role in the final helicopter evacuation from that embassy. “I really don’t remember eating or sleeping the last forty-eight hours or so in Saigon. I was operating on sheer instincts and using my Marine Corps training to get the job done at all costs. Many thousands of lives depended on getting on those choppers and getting as far away from the onslaught of Communism as possible. It was paramount to all those locals, whose lives had been intertwined with the American presence for the past ten thousand days, to get out…to get out at all costs.

“It was my responsibility to let pre-assembled groups go to the incoming choppers. I was in total charge of that gate and I heard a lot of pleading: ‘Marine You Let Me Go Now!’ Most realized by this time they would be one of the lucky ones who would get out alive. But even the shortest wait for the next chopper was like an eternity. They wanted out now! I played no favorites and everyone got the exact same treatment: stern but fair! As I look back I realize I became hardened that day. I felt like I lost my last remaining glimmer of innocence.

“So why was I the one who decided who got out…who lived and who didn’t? That’s a heavy burden! Only God should decide who lives and who dies! And for a young 19-year old person to have that responsibility is pretty tough.” Perhaps Randy Smith’s Vietnam Moment was also America’s Vietnam Moment.

On the back cover of Ross Lewis’ book is a reproduction of a poster drawn by a South Vietnamese Child that says, “War is not healthy for children and other living things.”

(For more information about Welcome Home/A Monument of Honor by Ross Lewis, and to see some of the photographs, go to www.welcomemonument.com or email Mr. Lewis at vietbookofhonor@att.net. Books may be ordered from the above website or from Amazon.com)

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Thu, 03 Jul 2014 13:57:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116937/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116937/
<![CDATA[Young Blanconian Gives Back]]>
Trent Phipps brings his donation to Good Samaritan.
Photo by Kary Phipps.

For the longest time, six-year-old Trent Phipps of Blanco wanted his own lemonade stand. So his dad Troy Phipps recently built him one. Trent set up in front of the Blanco National Bank during last month’s Lavender Fest and sold lemonade to raise funds for a local charity. He chose the Blanco Good Samaritan Center, which provides food, clothing and financial assistance to needy families across Blanco County.

Trent’s lemonade customers dropped bills and coins into his plastic milk jug, which he and his dad later delivered to the center. Good Samaritan volunteer Paul Montague accepted Trent’s donations, which amounted to $67.84. “We want Trent to understand how important it is to have a giving heart,” said mom Kary Phipps.

In the near future, Good Samaritan volunteers plan to give Trent a VIP tour of the center. “We appreciate our young friend so much,” said Sheryl Rodgers, president. “He’s a shining example of volunteerism in our community.”

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Thu, 03 Jul 2014 13:53:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116936/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116936/
<![CDATA[Review Board Held for Kendall Hartmann]]>

An Eagle Review Board was held Thursday May 19, 2014 at Blanco United Methodist Church for Kendall Hartmann. Sitting on the Review Board were Keith McClellan, Amanda Raczkowski, Rev. Bill Mosley, and Dr. Doug Becker.

The Eagle Board was convened to determine the Scout’s attitude toward and acceptance of Scouting’s ideals, to make sure that good standards of performance have been met in all phases of his life and to be sure the Scout recognizes and understands the value of Scouting in his home, Troop, school, and community.

The Scout must not only know the Scout Law and Oath but be living both. Kendall is now an Eagle Scout and his Court of Honor will be held at a later date.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:32:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116848/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116848/
<![CDATA[BYFL Joins NFL Youth Development Program USA Football, Files 501c3]]> By Gerald Elrod

The Blanco Youth Football League (BYFL) has joined the NFL Youth Development Program USA Football. This is going to be an outstanding change for the kids in this community and the direction of our youth program.

Coaches are in the process of taking mandatory level one coaching certifications through USA Football. Coaches are being trained in coaching fundamentals, health and safety, football basics, all player skills training, proper equipment fitting, concussion awareness, and most importantly heads up tackling.

Under the NFL development program, BYFL is required to have a Player Safety Coach (PSC) that has to have online certifications as well as hands on training that will take place this year at Cedar Park Vista Ridge High School in July. Bobby Beard graciously volunteered his time and effort to become our PSC. BYFL coaches will also be receiving age appropriate coaching certifications and now have a full website that gives them an endless library of videos by NFL coaches and players for drills and position training as well as all other aspects of the game.

We now have a complete structure to work under to get all of the coaches the proper training and for all to be on the same page to make easy transitions for the kids as they move up each level. Coaches have age appropriate practice plans through the website which will give stability and structure that the kids deserve.

BYFL is also now a nonprofit corporation and has filed for 501c3 status which is pending with the IRS. It will be retroactive to when we broke from Pop Warner so that donations made even in 2012 and 2013 will be tax deductible.

With nowhere to turn for help, and with a lot of complaints on where the program was at, I called Attorney Gary Currier. His first words were, “I would love to help this community.” He donated his time and expertise to walk us through the 501c3 process. It never would have happened without his efforts.

We are currently seeking donations to get a portable scoreboard which would allow us to have several more home games as the league requires a scoreboard.

Another huge change this year is that Blanco will play in its own size division for the first time in our youth football history. Blanco is now in a division with Lago Vista, Brady, San Saba, Mason, Llano, Johnson City and Goldthwaite. To reduce travel, neutral site games will be played halfway to most games. Blanco will not travel to Brady and Brady will not travel to Blanco.

There are so many more changes in the works as the league has listened to all the parents and have been working tirelessly as volunteers to make the necessary changes for the kid’s sake.

Please help support us in a positive way as we are not paid coaches, just volunteers trying to better our community. Contact us on our website www.blancoyouthfootball.com, or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BlancoYouthFootballLeague.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:30:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116845/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116845/
<![CDATA[Hunger Games Lock-In Held at Trinity Lutheran Church]]>

A Hunger Games inspired lock-in for 5th to 8th Graders was held on Friday, June 13th. Karla Riley, Trinity’s 5th – 8th grade Sunday School teacher, came up with the idea for this lock-in to teach her students about how hunger is used to manipulate populations around the world. Based on the book trilogy by Suzanne Collins, ten “Tributes” registered for this overnight experience. Also very importantly, eight “Advisors” or “Haymitchs” also participated. These high school students led their assigned tributes to each competition. While they were occupied hunting supplies from the Cornucopia, adults were setting up a surprise game of Lazer Tag in the parking lot.

Tying in with scripture, the evenings games and topics included self-esteem, integrity, willingness to sacrifice for others, and so much more. Part of the admission to the games was an offering of a food item to be donated to the Blanco Good Samaritan Center.

One of the most poignant experiences for the Tributes was the actual meal. All meals were served in large “to go” boxes so they could not tell what was in them. Neither the tributes nor the advisors knew what was about to happen. When each opened their box, some contained only a piece of pita bread while the others contained an over-stuffed BBQ sandwich, pickle, potato salad, chips and dessert. Naturally, they were all expecting the same meal. Those getting only bread and water were horrified when they saw what others got. One tribute started to cry. Her advisor very quietly slid his box of food over to her and comforted her. One tribute said, “Now I get what you are doing here! Now I see.” Some began to share their meals with those who got only bread. In the end, all got the same meals…and plenty of it.

After the meal, they all settled in to watch the movie, “Hunger Games, Catching Fire”. This time, they understood more about how the use of hunger was used to control the districts. The evening didn’t end there. There were more games and activities until about 3 a.m. Some slept for a couple of hours, but the aroma of pancakes and eggs stirred them awake.

Thank you to all the adults who participated in the scene set up, furniture moving, grocery and meal planning, clean up, and all the details that made this an incredible night together: Ron and Tami Bigler, Harry and Merle Conger, Angie Daniels, Charles Riley, and Hal and Sandy Switzer. A very huge thank you to Karla Riley for spending hours upon hours dreaming all of this up.

Even with all the adults helping, we could not have done this without the “Advisors” - high schoolers who were willing to spend 24 hours with our young tributes. God bless Chase Horton, Hunter Riley, Savannah Kershaw, Talon Cain, Tanner Cain, Wade Wardlow, Tyler Bigler and Gus Martinez III.

Our prayer with them before the evening began was based on a popular Christian song: A man who saw so much pain and suffering in the world became angry with God and asked God why he would let bad things happen in the world. “Why don’t you do something about it?” the man cried. And God replied, “I did, I created YOU.”

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:26:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116844/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116844/
<![CDATA[Chamber to Hold Volunteer Appreciation Party]]>

From Libbey Aly, Executive Director and Curtis Knutson, President, Board of Directors

The 10th Annual Lavender Festival is complete and the Blanco Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau and the Lavender Festival Steering Committee would like to say Thank You!

Thank you to all of the supportive community members who volunteered at the festival. The festival would not be what it is without the helpful and shining faces of our Blanco residents. Truly one of the reasons why visitors come back year after year! The Festival thanks our amazing group of sponsors; without their support, the festival could absolutely not happen: Blanco National Bank, Real Ale Brewing Company, Texas Lavender Association, Go Texan and the Texas Department of Agriculture, Express Automotive Services, GVTC, Guardian Title Company, Lone Star Capital Bank, Security State Bank, Pecan Street Brewing, Hill Country Lavender, Uptown Blanco Arts & Entertainment, The Hawn Holt Ranch, Redbud Café, Progressive Waste Solutions, Blanco Regional Clinic, Papa Joey’s, Hill Country Alliance, George Clary, Dean Swarthout, New Life Computers, and Strickland Drugs. Again, we so very much appreciate your support of the Chamber of Commerce. Extra special Thanks go out to Mayor Chuck Homan, Lesley Griffin of the Old Blanco County Courthouse, and Chief Mike Ritchey and the fine officers of the Blanco Police Department.

We owe The LBJ National Historical Park and Superintendent Russ Whitlock, a huge “Thank You” for donating the use of their park shuttle and drivers for this year’s event. The parking at Yett Park was a successful venture and the drivers did an amazing job. We also appreciate the use of the radios that kept our Steering Committee team in close contact with one another during the event. LBJNHP has always been a big supporter of the Chamber and Chamber events and we could not be more appreciative.

The proceeds from the Lavender Festival provide the Blanco Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau with operating funds for the entire year. Paying staff and “keeping the doors open” is how the money is spent. “As Blanco continues to grow, the Chamber of Commerce is an integral part of that growth in the support provided to our local businesses. Continuing to establish Blanco as a destination location is another aspect of the operations of the Chamber. Visitors who come and spend the night and enjoy our town brings new dollars to Blanco that is invaluable to our City budget.”

To show our appreciation, all festival volunteers and sponsors are invited to attend a Volunteer Appreciation Party this Friday, June 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Yett Memorial Park. Join us under the big pavilion for supper and let us show you just how thankful we are for the help. Please feel free to call 830-833-5101 if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you all on Friday.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:25:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116843/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116843/
<![CDATA[Third Annual Children’s Art Festival Promises Fun with ‘Strings and Things’]]>

The third annual Children’s Art Festival, Strings and Things, is this Saturday, June 28 at the Uptown Ballroom and Courtyard from 9am-12:30pm for kids ages 6-12.

This free event presents opportunities for students to express themselves in music, dance, art, and drama The music segment will include a hands on demonstration with the students and a short concert by Elaine Barber, principal harpist for the Austin Symphony and featured soloist across the US. Andrea Meehan, director of the beautiful, recently opened Uptown Blanco Textile Studio, will direct the students in tie dyeing their own tee shirt. Virginia Pohlmeier teaches folk dancing to all ages in Austin and will share her love of movement with the kids in circle and line dancing. Sarah Culpepper, prize winning teacher, returns to this year’s festival to spark the children’s storytelling creativity.

This event is offered free to the children and is underwritten in part this year by the Claron Cage family and C.A, Rust. Other donations are gladly accepted.

Registration is required since spaces are limitied. Please call 830-833-5164 or visit www.blancoperformingarts. to register. Children should bring a plain white tee shirt for dyeing.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:23:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116842/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116842/
<![CDATA[PEC Members Elect Two Directors, Vote in Election System Referendum]]>
Emily Pataki (District 2, left) and Kathryn Scanlon (District 3, right) were elected by PEC members to serve a three-year term on PEC’s Board of Directors. Election results were announced at PEC’s annual meeting held Saturday, June 21, in Cedar Park.
From PEC

Pedernales Electric Cooperative welcomed almost 700 attendees at its annual meeting Saturday, June 21, in Cedar Park. The meeting is PEC’s largest annual event and brought together PEC members to participate in the Co-op’s election, to learn more about their Cooperative and to speak with the Board of Directors and Co-op staff.

PEC members who hadn’t already participated in the Co-op’s election by voting early online or by mail had one final opportunity at the annual meeting to vote on their preference of a voting system for future elections, and also to elect directors from Board districts 2 and 3. Election results were announced near the conclusion of the business meeting, and members elected Emily Pataki of Cedar Park as District 2 director and re-elected Kathryn Scanlon of Austin as District 3 director. Each will serve three-year terms on the Co-op’s Board of Directors.

The Co-op membership also voted their preference to retain the Co-op’s current at-large voting system for future elections. The vote was 9,219 to 7,957, at-large voting over single-member district voting.

Prior to the beginning of the business meeting, members had a chance to visit with Co-op staff, as well learn useful information about topics such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, PEC history, electrical safety, and other initiatives, subjects and programs.

During his remarks to members in attendance at the business meeting portion of the event, PEC Board President and District 7 Director Dr. Patrick Cox discussed PEC’s history, adversities and accomplishments — and the Co-op’s return to focusing on what’s most important to PEC members.

“We have returned to our core business and core values — planning for the future; providing safe, reliable and affordable energy to our members; returning capital credits to our members; and working in the most cost-effective manner possible.” Cox said. “We have made significant progress the past five years. Thanks to the dedicated, hard work of many members and PEC employees, we have made tremendous accomplishments in restoring trust, financial accountability, and transparency while providing excellent, member-friendly services to our members. The success of PEC is built on the trust of our members and our employees. We have the most open and transparent co-op in the country.”

PEC Chief Executive Officer John D. Hewa gave a report highlighting initiatives the Co-op has been working on and has excelled at, as well as improvements he’d like to see made and initiatives moving forward that will benefit the Co-op and its membership. He touched on a wide variety of topics, including power reliability and resiliency, rates, member services, mobile and convenience services improvements, power supply, renewable energy, the Co-op’s cost-of-service study, member and community engagement and new tools and technology.

Hewa reminded members of their important stature with the Cooperative. “I want you to know this is your co-op. We want to always make sure we’re focusing on that. There’s a balancing act we have to do here on rates, growth, new systems, performance, people, trucks and teamwork. Every day, we’re working to make sure we’re bringing forward the right balance and doing things you’d expect us to do as stewards of this co-op.”

He also noted the Co-op is looking to further improve on its strength in the area of power reliability by utilizing new technology and tools. “The best practices that have helped us be strong, we’re looking to preserve, but we’re also looking at new technology and tools,” Hewa said. “This is a really complex business, and it’s changing very rapidly.”

Hewa also responded to a number of member comments on rates, fees, retail electricity provider competition and contracts, renewable energy, controllable costs and security of the Co-op’s systems.

A Board special organizational meeting was held immediately following the annual meeting, and officers for the next year were elected as follows:

President: District 7 Director Dr. Patrick Cox

Vice President: District 3 Director Kathryn Scanlon

Secretary-treasurer: District 1 Director Cristi Clement

2014 PEC Board election results

Near the conclusion of PEC’s June 21 annual meeting, Survey & Ballot Systems, which managed balloting for the Co-op, announced that 17,813 total votes were cast, including 11,424 by mail, 5,731 online and 329 in person at the annual meeting. The total votes cast represent 8.11% of the Co-op’s 219,571 members.

2014 PEC election results are as follows:

· District 2 director

o 8,943 votes: Emily Pataki

o 8,393 votes: William D. (Bill) Boggs

· District 3 director

o 7,966 votes: Kathryn Scanlon

o 4,488 votes: Don Zimmerman

o 3,037 votes: Arnold LeVine

o 1,794 votes: Judy Lawler Pokorny

· Election system referendum

o 9,219 votes: All at-large voting

o 7,957 votes: Single-member district voting

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:18:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116837/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116837/
<![CDATA[Two Weeks Remain to Enter Library Photo Contest]]>
These kids enjoyed Soda Experiment fun at the Library last week. More events are scheduled every Friday through July from 10:30am-11:45am.
By Crystal Spybuck

Hurry up! There are only two weeks left to enter our photo contest to win a Kindle!

Here are the rules:

-This contest is for Blanco County Residents ONLY

-Photos need to be at least 12” x 14” at a resolution of 300 dpi

-Photos must be your own pictures

-Photos need to be full color, no black and white or sepia

-Professional and amateur photographers are welcome

-No photos will be accepted that have won other contests

-If you won our photo contest in the past, you cannot win again, but we will accept your submissions

-There is a limit of 3 photo submissions per person

-A Media Release form must be submitted along with your photo(s)

Visit our website to download a media release form and submit your entries! Hurry because the contest ends July 7th!

Hey Kids! Join us for our Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading program! Sign up for prizes for reading this summer. This week’s program is Bubble Fun. We had fun with Soda Experiments last week! Remember, if you want to participate for July 3rd’s Building Circuits with PEC, you need to pre-register at the front desk.

As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Blossom Street Brides by Debbie Macomber, I’ve Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark, Letting Go by Maya Banks, One More Thing by B.J. Novak, and Robert B. Parker’s Cheap Shot by Ace Atkins.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:15:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116836/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116836/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Hear Public Comments on Proposed Middle Creek Bridge]]> By Tricia Hartmann

Blanco County Commissioners held a Special meeting on Tuesday, June 24, 2014, at 9:00 a.m. All four County Commissioners and County Judge Bill Guthrie were present. The meeting was held in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City, Blanco County, Texas.

After Judge Guthrie called the meeting to order Blanco County Commissioner John Wood led the Court in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman read the minutes of the Regular Meeting held on June 10, 2014. The minutes were approved as read with a motion to accept from County Commissioner Wood and a second by Blanco County Commissioner James Sultemeier.

Judge Guthrie asked Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg if he wanted to give an opening statement to the Court regarding the proposed Middle Creek bridge project. County Commissioner Granberg began, “this project has been in the works for at least 14 years. It is not a spur of the moment proposal. The reason it has not moved forward is because there was no right of way and a lack of funding. We have acquired the right of way and the funds are available. So we are ready to move forward and engineers have completed a plan that includes costs [of the project]. All is in place to move forward, but we have opposition to the project and we want to hear public comments. There is a sign-up sheet for those who wish to speak.”

Judge Guthrie introduced Greg Haley to the Court. Haley prepared the engineering proposal that includes costs of the project. Haley said the project has been approached in the same way as similar projects have been, and strict design criteria are required. Right of way acquisition is also important with no severances. The profile dictated the design, with avoidance of the creek bottom. Haley continued, “PEC Consultants of Austin did the structural design. Cost of the bridge is estimated at $178,500 and this does not include add on items, insurance, bonds, etc. Approximate cost of the structure could be $200,000.”

Judge Guthrie said, “there is a large contingent here who opposes the Middle Creek bridge project.” He asked Attorney Colby Karhan, speaker for those who oppose the proposed bridge, to address the Court.

Karhan told the Court, “We have lived here since 1976 and I am a 2001 graduate of Blanco High School. I was a member of the All State football team. As an attorney I am here to speak for all who are opposed to this project. It is important to me. When a project makes sense it is pretty easy to connect the dots. This is a road less traveled and there are no documented injuries or fatalities on this road or crossing. It [this project] is not fiscally responsible for this County. Please refer to the Blanco County Transportation and Economic Development Plan that was just approved in January.” Karhan added that this was a two year project with good input and an advisory committee. All necessary partners were included, and the Plan represents a future blue print of the County. “Seven low water crossings are listed in the Plan, and there is no mention of Middle Creek. It doesn’t make sense.”

Karhan continued, “cost of the project is estimated at $200,000. That’s a lot of money for this County, approximately one fourth of the road and bridge funds. A recent report shows the County is 7.2 million in debt. All residents should have public input because this proposal affects them. There are 341 people in the community who have signed the petition. ‘They are against this bridge proposal.’ They do want to improve the road, and the pavement could be fixed and trees trimmed. This would improve safety. There was no [opportunity for] input given on the project until this April when it was thankfully asked for by Commissioner Granberg. Karhan ended his statement and added that the question of what about a compromise that would include signage and a cost efficient crossing has been asked. The response given to us was a 100 year bridge and nothing less.”

Judge Guthrie asked the assembly if there were questions, and someone asked, “does traffic warrant this? What about a compromise; that is good government. This project is not fiscally responsible.” Judge Guthrie asked for those who were opposed to the Middle Creek bridge project to please stand. Judge Guthrie informed the Court, “we have a list of a number of names who wish to speak.” He asked how many still wished to speak following Attorney Karhan’s statement. Mrs. Russell said, “we need to connect the dots.” She agreed with Karhan’s comments. Carl Russell said he also agreed with Karhan’s statement. As Judge Guthrie called the names of those who had signed up to speak many of them answered that they agreed with the statements made by Karhan and did not need to speak.

Larry Martin of Blanco told the Commissioners Court he had questions in regards to the bridge. Martin asked Commissioner Granberg, “do you have funding?” Commissioner Granberg answered, “yes.” Martin asked, “will funding leave a tax burden for County residents?” Commissioner Granberg told him, “funding is from issuance of certificates already included, there is no increase proposed.” Martin continued, “this will not cost the tax papers money?” Judge Guthrie answered, “cost is $200,000, but no tax increase.” Martin asked, “does $200,000 include approaches?” Engineer Greg Haley replied that it did not. Commissioner Granberg said, “in my opinion the approaches will be minimal and will be done in house.” Martin also asked if the roads on both sides of the bridge will be fixed to the standard of the bridge. Commissioner Granberg replied this would be fixed to the existing road standard.

David Ford addressed the Commissioners Court next. Ford introduced himself as a civil engineering graduate of University of Texas ’64 with considerable engineering experience. Ford began, “safety is important and I am against this project. There is no major safety issue here.” Ford referred to the relatively low incidence of flooding in the area. Ford continued, “this is really a financial issue. Given engineering costs of $60,000 to $80,000 the total cost could be extrapolated at $750,000…this project will take a lot of land and cost a lot of money. Environmentally it will take a lot of silt and concrete. The project makes no sense environmentally. I have no financial stake in this but I am opposed from an engineering and financial perspective.”

Citizen Virginia Russell told the Court that the question has been asked what to do in a flood? The answer is we have it covered. So what is your question? Is there no confidence in our EMS? Regarding cost let’s see what construction companies offer…I think the project will cost more.

Middle Creek property owner Mrs. Lane spoke to the Court in support of the proposed bridge. Mrs. Lane told the Court, “my family owns the land where the crossing is an issue. There are six streams feeding in at the crossing and the road drops 100 yards. There is dry creek before it enters water. I’ve seen road rage here and it is a dangerous road. If two vehicles meet someone must back up, and when backing up someone can go over into a deep pool. The crossing is very strange and it is especially dangerous at night. There are eight dry creeks on our land alone.”

Lane added, “opponents of the project have a toxic political and selfish reason to keep out our first responders, working people, and others so they get to have their private paradise road. Regarding traffic, it is already here. Yes, there is a petition. On the petition there is no mention that on this narrow public road a cement truck lost its brakes and went down. There is a facility here where many events take place and the motorcyclists and bikers have found our road too. My family has 105 years of records and people have been misrepresented. Signatures on a petition are only as good as what the people have been told. I have seen the figure of $500,000 repeated in the paper over and over.”

Lane continued and said they say there are no floods but I have pictures and it floods…McCall and Monarch Creeks. “Look in your hearts and see if a pulse beats…and do the right thing.”

Lane added there is concern that residents will lose prescriptive easement across the crossing. A gate proposal has been proposed and gate openers would be needed. Does the County pay for this? “It is documented that in 2001 we met with Commissioner Granberg and we all have liability issues. Traffic came when the road was paved, and I don’t remember any complaints about paving. So do we never construct the bridge? Do we abandon the studies that have been made? The scenic view isn’t more important that the need to protect citizens. I cannot see how it got so out of hand.”

Tom Jones spoke to the Commissioners Court next. He introduced himself as the attorney for the Lane family. Jones told the Court that the Lanes donated the land for the bridge and the County is on notice that flooding is a big issue. “Your duty is to maintain, inspect, and make safe for the general public. We must take action to protect the public. The County has viable options.” Jones added that under the Texas Tort Claims Act no caps may apply if knowledge of liability exists. The County is on notice and continues to be on notice of substantial liability. “We must put emotion and personal and community issues aside and do what is best for the County and general public. Thank you.”

David Steitle also spoke to the Commissioners. Steitle told the Court he has experience in traffic engineering in San Antonio and other cities. He is a resident and says this area is growing. Steitle said he is very concerned about who is responsible for the safety for those who use the road and for the precinct. Steitle read a letter he had written to Commissioner Granberg. The letter asks the Commissioner to consider safety first and not popularity and not to compromise safety of the public.

As Director of Public Works in San Antonio Steitle recounted an incident where safety was not maintained and an 18 year old girl lost her life. “Lives were ruined and I have lived with guilt.” Steitle ended by saying, “lives are the issue, not County liability. We have an opportunity…with growth the need for safety increases. Don’t compromise based on public emotions.”

As the public discussion and comment session of the meeting was ending Karhan asked if he could speak again. Karhan asked if the Court could vote today. Judge Guthrie answered, “there would be no action, and there are no specifics re costs. This was not an action item.” Karhan said, “we do not want this issue lost.” Judge Guthrie replied that the item will most likely be put on the Agenda for the first meeting in July. Steve Marshall added a comment, “usually engineering costs run 10%, why is this 35%? Has the possibility of safety and increased traffic after the bridge is constructed been considered?”

After the public comments and discussion ended the Commissioners Court approved payment of outstanding bills in the amount of $105,546.10. Judge Guthrie asked the Court to consider accepting the resignation of Ty Grenwelge, Constable Precinct Four as effective on June 30, 2014. Judge Guthrie received a letter from Grenwelge in which Grenwelge expressed his gratitude for the opportunity of rewarding service. A motion to accept the resignation was made by Blanco County Commissioner Granberg and seconded by County Commissioner Chris Liesmann. There was no discussion and this motion passed.

Blanco County Commissioner Granberg asked for authorization to advertise for paving in Precinct Four. Granberg said he would like to get on with this [process] and advertise for bids to start the paving process. He said the roads to be paved had not all been determined yet. Blanco County Commissioner Wood seconded the motion made by County Commissioner Granberg. No discussion followed and the motion carried.

Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann asked for authorization to advertise for paving in Precinct Three. County Commissioner Liesmann’s motion was seconded by County Commissioner Sultemeier. This motion passed with no discussion. At this time the Special meeting ended with a motion to adjourn from Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann and a second from County Commissioner Granberg.

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Thu, 26 Jun 2014 18:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116835/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116835/
<![CDATA[Three Weeks Left for Library’s Photo Contest]]>
Magician John O’Bryant entertains during the summer reading program.
By Crystal Spybuck

We need volunteers! Do you have free time on your hands? Do you want to get to know your neighbors? Then signup to be a volunteer at the Blanco Library! We have many opportunities available. Stop by the library this Volunteer Signup Week to learn more!

Hey Kids! Join us for our Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading program! Kids ages 6 and younger, you can win prizes for every 10 books you read! Kids ages 7 and older can win prizes for every 10 hours you read! We have programs for kids ages 4-8 every week this summer. This week’s program is Soda Experiments. Remember, if you want to participate for July 3rd’s Building Circuits with PEC, you need to pre-register at the front desk.

Three weeks left for our Photo Contest! Check out the rules on our Home Page. Winner receives a FREE KINDLE! As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Lost Lake by Sarah Allen, Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris, Power Play by Danielle Steel, Raising Steam by Terry Pratchett, The Supreme Macaroni Company, The Target by David Baldacci, Unlucky 13 by James Patterson, Winter’s Tale by Mark Helprin, and The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls by Anton Disclafani.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 19:54:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116789/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116789/
<![CDATA[Cub Scouts Attend Camp]]>
Picture by Amanda Raczkowski. Top row Ethan Wheat, Hayden Raczkowski, Alex Hartman, Thaddeus Reishus, Alex Simon, Brent Torres. Bottom row Ryan McGill, Sol Hain, Kayla Raczkowski, Jordan Torres. Not pictured Lori Wheat, Lizzy Wheat, Sam Garrett, Cassie Hartman.

Fourteen boys and girls from Blanco Cub Scout Pack 497 and Frontier Girls Troop 246 attended Scout Day Camp June 10-13 in Stonewall, at the LBJ State Park. The theme this year was Gizmos, Gadgets, and Goo. Scouts made Gak by combining Borax and white glue, did experiments with Mentos and soda, and learned about the properties of dry ice. They designed their own bridges, using dry spaghetti and marshmallows, then created catapults using Popscicle sticks and rubber bands. The principles of aerodynamics were taught by building paper airplanes and flying kites. The scouts had a great time learning the rules of Ultimate Frisbee, soccer, and tennis as they played these with their dens. All scouts also got to participate in archery, BB Gun Marksmanship, and fishing. No scout camp would be complete without practical lessons about conservation. The campers learned about the principles of Leave No Trace and put them into action by picking up trash, making sure the park area looked as clean or better than before camp began. Composting was taught by having each scout make their own worm bin to take home. Each afternoon, all scouts got to cool off with a swim in the Stonewall Pool.

If you are in 1st through 5th grade, think these activities sound like fun, and would like to join Cub Scouts, then please contact Amanda Raczkowski at 214-762-4949 or email amr291@gmail.com. Girls interested in joining Frontier Girls may contact Sarah Garrett at 830-833-4371

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 19:19:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116780/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116780/
<![CDATA[Girl Scout Troop 2104 Donates Cookies to Local Heroes]]>

Blanco Girl Scout Troop 2104 worked hard during cookie season this year. Through their hard work and donations made by community members the girls were able to donate cookies to our local Blanco Volunteers and Heroes.

The troop was able to donate cookies to Blanco Police Department, EMS, Fire Department, and Blanco State Park Rangers.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 19:15:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116779/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116779/
<![CDATA[Blanco Scout Troop 497 Busy During May]]>
Bottom Left: Troop 497 on a canoe outing on the San Marcos. (From L-R) Grady, TG Guide, Bret, Morgan, Mark, Matthew, Tyler, Mitchell, Tucker and friends.

The scouts were honored to participate in the Flag ceremony in the Blanco Car Show on May 17th. We had 7 scouts there to present the colors, Joaquin led the troop through the ceremony while Grady, Wes, Morgan and Alex presented the colors. Pledge of Allegiance to the US flag and the Texas flag were both recited. We would like to thank the Car Show for the generous donation they gave our troop. The scouts had a great time looking at all car show entries and just hanging around by the river.

Monday May 19th we had a Court of Honor ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of our scouts over the past 4 months. We had 5 boys advance in rank. Grady –Scout, Tyler – 2nd Class Scout, Mitchell – Star Scout, Morgan and Skylar – Life Scout. We also had scouts who earned a variety of merit badges.

May 23rd and 24th the Troop went to San Marcos to camp at Pecan Park campground on Friday night. They got up the next morning and went to TG Canoes and Kayaks for a 7-mile canoe excursion. It was a guided excursion that led the group down the San Marcos with a couple of portages where they had to lower the canoes with ropes. The scouts learned to canoe and better their communication skills during this adventure.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 19:03:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116778/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116778/
<![CDATA[Gourmet Dinner to Support Good Samaritan]]>

The Good Samaritan Center on Pecan St. is a well known and necessary component of the Blanco community. The Center provides services for those in need and those shopping for a bargain. It is surprising how many “Sunday” outfits are purchased at the thrift store! Many local children’s school wardrobes are the result of frugal shopping by thrifty mothers. Costuming for high school productions, prom dresses and even wedding gowns have come “off the rack” at Good Samaritan. Besides clothing, food and financial services are available for those in need. One volunteer has been overheard saying that it is his “goal to see that no child in Blanco goes hungry”.

Good Sam (as it is fondly known) was conceived in 1990 by the citizens of Blanco in response to a call by the Ministerial Fellowship (an organization of Blanco churches). It’s goal was (is) to provide a visible, centralized program to help people in need who reside in Blanco. In 2013 4718 bags of food were given to 1732 families. $48,410 in special aid was distributed to 267 families to help with rent, electric bills, water, propane and, in some cases, for medicine. One must qualify for food and financial support but any one can shop at the thrift store.

Except for a small amount of funding from the County Commissioners Court, all the funds distributed by Good Samaritan come from donations, grants, and the sale of donated clothing and other items. No support comes from the State of Texas or the federal government. No one is paid for working at the center.

You can help! On Sunday July 13 Trinity Lutheran Church is hosting a late afternoon event to raise money for the Center. For $25 (tickets purchased in advance) a gourmet dinner will be served and an entertaining lecture on “Migration, Birders Should Do It Too” will be enjoyed. The price includes a raffle ticket and there will be a silent auction. For more information and tickets call 830 833 4771 Mon-Fri, 9am to 1pm.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 19:01:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116776/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116776/
<![CDATA[Lavender Festival Blooms for 10th Anniversary]]>
By Willard Gibbons

Though a blustery storm on Thursday night threatened to sweep away those set up for Friday’s opening of the 10th Annual Lavender Festival, everything was set to rights by Noon on June 12.

This year marks the first year for overflow parking at Yett Park, which was packed with visitor’s vehicles, and a free shuttle to the Festival. Cooler morning temperatures were enjoyed by all, but the Texas heat also made it’s yearly appearance in the afternoons.

Those who grabbed lunch at the festival and headed down to shady Bindseil Park were treated with great musical entertainment. Those with the dancing bug enjoyed Saturday night’s dance at Yett Park, featuring Jim Raby and the Good Whiskey Band and The Almost Patsy Cline Band.

Imagine Lavender Farms and Hill Country Lavender Farm were open to visitors and offered tours and family fun. The Speakers Pavilion in the Old Blanco County Courthouse featured lectures on Cooking, Lavender History, and How-To seminars.

The 10th Annual Lavender Festival was another great success by the Blanco Chamber of Commerce and all the volunteers that made it possible.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 18:29:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116769/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116769/
<![CDATA[McClung, Sauceda, Turner Sworn In at Council Meeting]]>
By Priscilla Seals

The regular meeting of the governing body of Blanco on June 10 was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, following the precedent set recently by Blanco County Commissioners. Newly re-elected council members Bobby McClung, Martin Sauceda, and Al Turner were sworn in by Mayor Chuck Homan.

In the Public Comments section of the meeting, resident Wayne Gosnell reminded council members of the ongoing public education campaign to keep the night skies free of light pollution, citing the recent recognition of Dripping Springs as an International Dark Sky City, one of only six in the nation and the only one in Texas. He presented council members with two tickets to attend a one-day conference called “Better Lights for Better Nights” to be held August 15 in Dripping Springs. The educational event, co-sponsored by the City of Dripping Springs and the International Dark Sky Association, will include presentations by professionals, exhibitors, and educators. Registration can be done online at www.TexasNightSkyFestival.org.

Mayor Homan commented on the upcoming Lavender Fest June 13-15, with hopes that everyone would stay safe during the festival. He also thanked Public Works Director Nathan Cantrell and his staff for planting bushes and shrubs adjacent to the post office, with the cooperation of postmaster Tina Kmetz. He welcomed other Blanco merchants to do similar projects.

Blanco Youth Soccer Association Treasurer Thaddeus Millard presented a request to council for use of the city-owned field next to the police department on Blanco Avenue as a practice field. Following assurances from Millard that there would be no parking issues and that he would mow the field a little shorter than the city does, council unanimously approved the request. “We just want to make it nice for the neighborhood kids,” said Millard.

Blanco Historic Preservation Commission chair Retta Martin reported that a Certificate of Appropriateness has been issued to the Blanco National Bank for some renovations to the facades of their buildings on the north side of the square. The wooden building will be restored to its original appearance, including windows with transoms, according to Martin. She also pointed out an oversight by council in the approval process of the Streetscape conceptual plan. Although council members voted to approve the plan, the approval was not recorded in council meeting minutes. Mayor Homan suggested that Martin and city secretary Kristi Walker get together to put the correct wording into amended minutes for that date since Historic Preservation Officer Becky Greathouse needs written approval to proceed with Streetscape projects.

A discussion concerning purchasing radios for communication between City Hall and the police department was tabled until more information on the best type of radio could be presented to the mayor. He complained that city hall personnel cannot communicate with the police department with their current radio.

A request by the public works department to allow Alexander Construction Company to remove dirt from the 110-acre parcel recently acquired by the city for irrigation purposes was also tabled when council member McClung expressed reservations about the aesthetic results of digging dirt out of the site. “Is it going to be a 50-foot ditch?” he asked. “We don’t want to be building an eyesore.” The mayor suggested that Cantrell and McClung drive out to the site and look it over. The dirt would be sold to the construction company at $20 per load, but could also be used for road projects by the city. The delay would give City Attorney Eddy Rogers time to write up a contract with the construction company.

There was no report from the fire department, as their meeting had not taken place until Thursday, June 12.

Police Chief Mike Ritchey thanked the city and the taxpayers for the paving of the police department parking lot, which he said has improved the work environment of officers as well as improving drainage from the parking lot. He also addressed the issue of engine-braking, which was discussed at the May meeting, saying he has not been able to find an ordinance in other localities which specifically addresses that noise and pointed out the difficulty of enforcing it. Council members were provided a copy of the current noise ordinance, and Eddy Rogers said a sentence could be added to it to include engine-braking as a violation. Chief Ritchey said he is not in favor of an elaborate ordinance, favoring a “complaint-driven” system whereby officers respond to individual complaints.

Ritchey presented his monthly statistics to council, saying “I’m not disappointed in them.” The issue of dog complaints was discussed, since dogs running at large and biting people continues to be a problem. Ritchey also made a request to replace two police vehicles, which he said “are in bad shape” and have cost $9700 in repairs over the past six months. He expressed a preference for a Tahoe vehicle, which would cost $23K without special equipment, since equipment could be transferred from the older vehicles, which he said are not worth $1500. “I just need direction from city council,” he concluded. Council members Danny Ray and Al Turner suggested he start looking for something, and Ritchey responded that he would look for money in his budget. Mayor Homan suggested that there might be money available at budget time, “if we get lucky.”

Nathan Cantrell also requested purchase of a new utility truck from the Houston-Galveston Area Co-op, stating that he has money in the street department budget to buy one. He was also instructed by council members to go out and see what he could find and bring back a report.

The meeting was adjourned after Executive Session, with no action taken on items discussed.

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Thu, 19 Jun 2014 18:12:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116767/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116767/
<![CDATA[Woman’s Club Elects New Officers at Annual Luncheon]]>
By Crystal Spybuck

Dear Friends,

Our 2013-2014 Year has wrapped up and our annual Luncheon was a blast! Our venue and meal was lovely out at Onion Creek Kitchen’s. Thank you to the committee that arranged the beautiful luncheon!

The mini thrift fashion show was quite educational and entertaining. Everyone participating was challenged to purchase an outfit for under $20 from a thrift store. Many ladies had on beautiful attire, but most of us used our own shoes and jewelry. I would say that Dean Myane won the fashion show by producing a complete outfit (including accessories and shoes) for under $20!

Carol Davidson as our retiring president installed the new officers with gifts. Bonnie Holmes as the new president; Kathee Copeland is 1st vice president; I am your 2nd vice president; we will announce the rest in our next article.

The new board will have its first meeting at 1pm June 11th and Department and Hostess Chairpersons will meet at 2pm June 11th at the Blanco Library. Department and Hostesses are:

Ann Wynn

Bonnie Holmes

Carol Davidson

Carolyn Boydston

Crystal Spybuck

Dean Myane

Diane Turner

Gwen Risinger

Linda Howard

Mary Nabers

Mary Neighbors

Nancy Cline

Pat Ryan

Rhonda Norville

Wendy Watson

We look forward to working with you all in the coming year. Remember, our theme is “Blanco, Then and Now” which will be exciting as we recycle some old Woman’s Club traditions!

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:48:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116725/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116725/
<![CDATA[D-Day Memorial Ceremony Held at WW2 Museum]]>
Nell Krueger speaks during the Ceremony, thanking the Buggy Barn Museum Complex for their efforts in preserving WW2 artifacts.
Photo by Willard Gibbons

As leaders of the world gathered in Normandy on Friday to remember the D-Day landings, in north Blanco there was a similar gathering with the same mission. County Commissioners Paul Granberg, John Woods, and James Sultemeier, Mayor Chuck Homan and City Councilman Danny Ray, Kermit Roeder, County Inspector, the American Legion, and a variety of other folks came together to note the significance of that day 70 years ago when America began the campaign that would end with the surrender of Germany 11 months later. All were honored to be in the presence of several WW2 veterans who were in attendance.

The event was held at the Buggy Barn Museum Complex on N 281. It began with an invocation, the national anthem was sung by Judy Dorsett, which was then followed by the solemn moment in recognition of the fourteen Blanco citizens who paid the ultimate price during WW2. It was a time to acknowledge the sacrifice that Americans were, and are still willing to make, to defend freedom in the world.

The occasion also served as an opportunity to recognize Nell Krueger and Roy Byars for their tireless efforts at preserving and promoting the history and heritage of Blanco. Both were instrumental in obtaining artifacts from the USS Blanco County that are now on display in the WW2 museum. Mr. Byars, a WW2 veteran, has passed on, but he was represented by his daughters Patty Haas and Marilyn Mikes. Ms. Krueger spoke about how she was delighted to see how Blanco’s appreciation for its heritage was continuing thanks to so many of the folks who were there.

“Nell, this should show you that your vision is on the way to becoming reality,” summed up Dennis Moore, referring to Ms. Krueger’s constant advocacy for creating a place where we could all share in the appreciation of our community’s history. Following the formalities, attendees toured the WW2 and Buggy Barn Museums where the Moore family hosted refreshments in a setting that allowed for all to continue the occasion for reflection.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:41:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116722/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116722/
<![CDATA[July 4 Parade Now Accepting Entries]]>

The Spangle Dangle 4th of July Patriotic celebration will be a two day event this year with fireworks and fun on Friday and a parade Saturday morning at 10:00 am in downtown Johnson City, Texas.

If you would like to enter the parade and join the celebration please call Roxanna Avants at 512-627-0584 or email roxannaavants@yahoo.com. Come on out and be an entry or be a spectator and show your patrotisim.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:41:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116721/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116721/
<![CDATA[Gem of the Hills Receives $1,000 Grant for Ramp]]>
Back row, left to right, Arlene Bayless, Madora Beckman, Ada Cooley, Mitch Parker, Frances Dickey. Front row, left to right, Cyndy Hounsell, Monta Knoll, Grace Walker.

The Gem of the Hills Senior Citizens Community Center has received a grant from Pedernales Electric Cooperative Community and Economic Development to build a ramp into the exercise facility.

On June 4, 2014 Karen Marshall delivered the $1000 check and dessert to the delight of the Skip–Bo players.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:23:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116714/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116714/
<![CDATA[PEC Members Invited to Annual Meeting June 21]]> From PEC

Pedernales Electric Cooperative members are invited to the Co-op’s annual meeting June 21 in Cedar Park. The meeting and related activities will be held at the Leander ISD South Performing Arts Center, located on the Cedar Park High School Campus at 2150 Cypress Creek Road.

At the annual meeting, PEC members will be able to participate in informative and engaging activities, meet with Co-op staff, make statements to the Board and attendees, and receive reports regarding the Cooperative’s activities and initiatives. Members also will have an opportunity to cast their ballots in the 2014 PEC election and to hear election results.

Doors open for member registration and election voting at 8 a.m. A variety of family-friendly activities and informational booths are scheduled to open at 8:30 a.m, with the official annual business meeting beginning at 10:30 a.m. PEC election results will be announced during the business meeting.

In this year’s election, PEC members will vote on their preference of a voting system for future director elections, and also to elect directors from Board districts 2 and 3. The election system referendum was called for by the Co-op’s Board to provide PEC members the option to vote on their preference between the Co-op’s current at-large system of voting and a single-member district voting system.

In the director election, Co-op members will select from the following candidates, listed here in ballot order:

· District 2: Emily Pataki, Cedar Park; William D. (Bill) Boggs, Leander

· District 3: Judy Lawler Pokorny, Cedar Park; Kathryn Scanlon, Austin; Arnold LeVine, Austin; Don Zimmerman, Austin

Members registering at the meeting prior to 10:30 a.m. and remaining for the duration of the business meeting will have a chance to win door prizes, including:

· A retired PEC pickup truck

· An iPad and Apple TV (combo prize)

· An energy-efficient smart TV

· A laptop computer and Nest thermostat (combo prize)

Meeting registration and member voting close at 10:30 a.m. Complete PEC election and annual meeting information is available at www.pec.coop.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:22:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116713/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116713/
<![CDATA[Library in Search of Volunteers, Photo Submissions]]>
Visit www.blancolib.org for the full, Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading Program Schedule.
By Crystal Spybuck

We need volunteers! Do you have free time on your hands? Do you want to get to know your neighbors? Then sign up to be a volunteer at the Blanco Library! We have many opportunities available. Stop by the library June 16th through the 21st during our Volunteer Sign-up Week to learn more! Hey Kids! Join us for our Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading program! Kids ages 6 and younger, you can win prizes for every 10 books you read! Kids ages 7 and older can win prizes for every 10 hours you read! We have programs for kids ages 4-8 every week this summer. Check out our Photo Contest Rules on our Home Page! Winner receives a FREE KINDLE! As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information. Recently Added Bestsellers: Auschwitz Escape by Joel Rosenberg, Be Careful What You Wish For by Jeffrey Archer, The Cairo Affair by Olen Steinhauer, Field of Prey by John Sandford, Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner, Hunting Shadows by Charles Todd, and Keep Quiet by Lisa Scottoline.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:19:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116712/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116712/
<![CDATA[Blanco Performing Arts Ends Season on High Note]]>
Violinist Julia Pautz (Left) and Pianist Maimy Fong (Right).
Photo by Charles Willgren
From Vickie Pautz

The sold out audience was certainly “wowed” by violinist Julia Pautz’s masterful presentation of Beethoven, Brahms, Sarasate, and Gershwin at the last concert of Blanco Performing Arts fourth season on Sunday, June 1 at the Uptown Blanco Ballroom.

Austin pianist Maimy Fong was a persuasive and intuitive partner throughout the program that evoked emotions of peace, sorrow, longing, elusive love, and sheer joy.

Pautz’s powerful technique was up to the challenging “Zigeunerweisen” by Sarasate and her lush tone soared on the “Bess You Is My Woman Now” from the Gershwin/Heifetz Porgy and Bess suite. Pautz and Fong responded to the standing ovation with a heartfelt encore, Dvorak’s “Songs My Mother Taught Me”.

The 2014-15 season is already planned and season ticket orders will be available soon on www.blancoperformingarts.com

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:04:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116707/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116707/
<![CDATA[Event, Music, and Speaker Schedule for 10th Annual Lavender Festival]]> From Blanco Chamber of Commerce

The 10th Annual Lavender Festival kicks off Friday, June 13 at Noon. Make sure to visit the Information Booth on the Square for additional information.

Lavender Festival Market

-Friday Noon to 6 PM

-Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM

-Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM

Events for Imagine Lavender Farm:

Friday 13th:

-Master Gardener’s present A Firewise Program all day

Saturday 14th

-Master Gardener’s present A Firewise Program all day

-Artist David Mills painting en plein aire- Prairie Project

-10am: Shari Bauer speaking on Fairy Houses & Gardens

-12pm-4pm: Alan Newman presenting Honey Bee Demo

-2pm: Handmade Soap Demo

-3pm: Shari Bauer speaking on Fairy Houses & Gardens

In the field:

-Flag Day

Sunday 15th:

-Master Gardener’s presenting Firewise Program all day

12pm-4pm: Alan Newman of Alamo Beekeepers Association presenting Honey Bee Demo

-2pm: Handmade Soap Demo

Daily in field: Fairy Habitat open, Monarch Way Station, Childrens activities.

Sat & Sun: Visit from a Fairy in the field

Events for Hill Country Lavender

Friday 13th:

-12pm-”History of Hill Country Lavender and Growing Lavender in Texas”

Saturday 14th

-10am- Lavender Wand Making Class - $10 each

-1pm- “Here’s What I’ve Learned” - meet the owner and ask her about growing lavender.

Sunday 15th

-1pm “History of Hill Country Lavender and Growing Lavender in Texas”

Music Schedule

-Friday, June 13:

3:00 pm - 5 pm, Allen Ray Wallace & Southern Comfort

- Saturday, June 14:

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm, Jesse Stratton

2;00 pm - 3:00 pm, Bobby Mack

4:00 pm - 5:30 pm , Zydeco Blanco

-Sunday, June 15:

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm, Austin Forrest

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Bepko, Fletcher, Santos & Rose

Lavender Dance at Yett Park

-The Almost Patsy Cline Band at 6:30 - 8:30

-Jim Raby & The Good Whiskey Band 9:00 - 11:30

Tickets are $10.00 at the gate. Children under 12 are free.

Speaker’s Pavilion

-On Saturday:

11:30 am - Texas Lavender Association - Panel discussion with members of the Texas Lavender Association. Bring your questions about growing, harvesting, and marketing Texas Lavender. If you want to grow lavender as a hobby or as a business, or sell lavender products, this is a great resource for your questions.

-1:00 pm - Melanie Van Aken - All About Lavenders History, Use and Growing Tips. In the 10th year of growing and using culinary and medicinal herbs, including lavender, Melanie Van Aken (of Heron’s Nest Herb Farm) will share lavender’s history as well as its amazing and valuable uses. She will also be sharing her own experience with growing, harvesting and making products with Lavender Essential Oil. You will have an opportunity to make a unique Essential Oil Mister at the end ($5 optional)

2:30 pm - Master Gardeners of Blanco County. Panel discussion with local Master Gardeners will include what Master Gardeners can do for you and your community, living with deer in the Hill Country, Fire Wise landscaping - to protect your home from wildfires, drought tolerant plants, native trees and grasses, invasive species and suggested alternatives.

-On Sunday:

11:30 am - Valerie Greene - Wimberley Valley Gourmet Specialties will speak on ways to use fresh herbs and lavender in your food. Food will be available for sampling to see how tasty culinary infused oils and vinegars can be. Featured lavender dish will be ice cream with a lavender Balsamic Vinegar!

1:00 pm - Melanie Van Aken - Be a part of the Bee Solution. Beginner beekeeper Melanie Van Aken will share how you can help and not harm your local bee populations. Hear practical ideas for your own garden to support all of your pollinators, especially bees. Learn some amazing facts about honey and the hive.

2:15 pm - Fred Van Aken - Growing Lavender “Off the Grid”. Rainwater collection and Solar driven drip irrigation have produced great results in the field at Heron’s Nest Herb Farm. Farmer Fred Van Aken will share his experience with growing herbs including lavender, tips for creating just the right soil, troubleshooting for herbs and lavender’s special needs.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:03:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116706/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116706/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Consider Fire Suppression, Pass on Burn Ban]]>
Citizen Elaine Cross spoke to the Commissioners Court regarding proposed subdivision regulations to include fire suppression.
By Tricia Hartmann

The Blanco County Commissioners Court held a Regular meeting on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. The Commissioners met in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City, Texas. All four County Commissioners were present. Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie was absent because he is attending school at this time. Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg presided over the Regular meeting in Judge Guthrie’s absence.

The Regular meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman read the minutes of the Special meeting of May 27, 2014. A motion to accept the minutes as read was given by Blanco County Commissioner Chris Liesmann and seconded by County Commissioner James Sultemeier.

Blanco County Commissioner John Wood asked the Court to consider amending subdivision regulations to include fire suppression. The proposed regulations state that: “In a subdivision that is not served by fire hydrants as part of a centralized water system certified by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality as meeting minimum standards for water utility service, the commissioners court may require a limited fire suppression system that requires a developer to construct: (1) for a subdivision of fewer than 50 houses, 2,500 gallons of storage; or (2) for a subdivision of 50 or more houses, 2,500 gallons of storage with a centralized water system or 5,000 gallons of storage. Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1390, Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2007.

Blanco County Commissioner Wood told the Court the County has carefully been considering fire suppression for subdivisions. The issue of County liability has been raised. County Commissioner Wood thanked County Attorney David Hall for his work on the proposal. Hall has reviewed the proposal thoroughly and said there was no County liability; the liability for maintaining the storage equipment would be to the home and property owners of the developments.

Johnson City Fire Chief Burdett spoke to the Court regarding the proposal. Burdett said, “the proposal is well intentioned, but I would like to see a more comprehensive fire code for Blanco County.” A specific question was who would be responsible for maintaining the system. Burdett told the Commissioners Court, “we need a credible water supply that we can trust…but any water is appreciated.”

Citizen Elaine Cross also addressed the Court regarding fire suppression. Cross thanked the Commissioners for their work on the proposal. Cross said, “water is a hard to come by resource.” Cross reminded the Commissioners of what can happen in a fire when fire fighters are forced to seek out alternative water supplies to refill tanks. Sometimes grass or structural fires occur on impassible terrain, and equipment is costly. Cross said the ordinance could be a “helping hand” to fire fighters.

Blanco County Attorney David Hall said there has been a lot of research conducted for the proposal. His questions pertained to general authority and liability. Hall reminded the Commissioners the proposal can be changed to suit specific needs. Hall said there are four title companies who are licensed to operate in Blanco County. Requirements could be made for the developer on record to indicate signage on storage tanks on each plat. The title companies would get notice of requirements of subdivision responsibility to maintain equipment because, “there is a lot at stake for who has government authority in subdivisions and responsibility to maintain.”

Blanco Fire Chief Ron Solomon told the Court, “I am all for more water.” Solomon said that 2500 gallon storage tanks would be critical for the initial knock down but firefighters would still have to shuttle for additional water. Blanco County Surveyor Amil Baker asked for clarity regarding maintenance of paved roads and added that this discussion could be part of a potential workshop.

A discussion followed as to who must enforce the proposal and who would oversee the maintenance of the equipment. Blanco County Commissioner Granberg and County Attorney Hall said the homeowners have total responsibility. According to Hall, “if not maintained [the system] is rendered useless. The fire suppression plan would give an extra pot of water to fire fighters.” Baker said requirements could include fire suppression equipment to be installed as per ordinance when subdivisions are developed. This installation would be met before authority for subdivisions are given as part of a check-off system.

Cross gave a comparison between maintenance of roads and tanks, because County roads require responsibility of property and homeowners. As the discussion ended County Commissioner Wood told the Court, “the proposal is a good idea but I would like to see more backing from the Fire Department and Fire Chiefs.” Blanco County Commissioner Wood said that he would not make a motion to accept the subdivision regulations to include fire suppression at this time. Wood added, “another workshop to answer additional questions is needed.” He thanked everyone for their input.

County Commissioner Granberg told the Court, “everyone has gotten rain and things are green and are looking pretty good.” County Commissioner Sultemeier said he would pass on taking action on the burn ban. Therefore the County-wide burn ban remains off. County Commissioner Granberg asked Kathy Strickland, secretary to Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie to clarify requirements for prohibiting the sale or use of “restricted fireworks” which are defined as “skyrockets with sticks” as classified in 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 173.100®(2) for the July fireworks season. Strickland told the Court, “in order to restrict the sale or use of ‘restricted fireworks’ the County must be under a drought index of 575 and there must be a burn ban in place. Blanco County is currently in a 0-200 drought index. Hence, per the Texas Forest Service no action is taken.”

County Commissioner Granberg asked the Commissioners Court to consider acknowledgement of receipt of the 2013 audit for the North Blanco County Emergency Services District. A motion to accept the audit was given by Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann and seconded by County Commissioner Wood. No discussion followed and the motion carried.

The Court was also asked to consider authorization to reduce the salary of the Tax Assessor/Collector (TAC) by $200 per month and increase the salary of the Chief Deputy TAC by the same amount for the extent of the term of the current TAC due to health issues. Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier made a motion to authorize the change in salary. This motion was seconded by County Commissioner Wood; no discussion followed and the motion carried.

The Court approved the final plat for the Summit Springs Subdivision. A brief presentation by owner Davy Roberts indicated there was good interest in completing the development on the Burnet County side and that development was proceeding on the Blanco County side of the project. According to Roberts, “the water system would include fire hydrants positioned near tanks at a central location. Trucks can come to fill up on the Blanco side which includes about 25% of the project.” Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann asked if all documents had been submitted and he was told they had been. County Commissioner Liesmann gave a motion for approval of the plat for Summit Springs Subdivision and County Commissioner Wood seconded. There was no discussion and the motion carried.

Blanco County Commissioner Wood asked the Court to authorize for paving projects in Precinct One. The paving would be done on Cottonwood and Maenius Roads. Blanco County Commissioner Wood gave a motion to approve and County Commissioner Liesmann seconded. There was no discussion and the motion carried.

The Court heard a lengthy presentation of the annual report from the outside auditor for FY 2012-2013. The auditor said the report was made in compliance with all rules and regulations set forth in Gatsby Annual Review. The auditor’s assessment was that Blanco County, “is in good financial condition,” and, “the [Blanco] County does a good job of making and holding the budget line.” A motion to accept the annual report was given by Blanco County Commissioner Wood and seconded by County Commissioner Sultemeier; this motion carried.

The Commissioners Court approved the estimated June payroll of $256,887.69. Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann made a motion for approval, County Commissioner Wood seconded, and the motion passed. All official reports were in, and those were approved by the Court with a motion for approval made by Blanco County Commissioner Liesmann and a second by County Commissioner Sultemeier. The outstanding bills in the amount of $54,043.49 were also approved by the Commissioners Court. Blanco County Commissioner Wood gave this motion and County Commissioner Sultemeier seconded. After approval of the motion the Regular meeting adjourned.

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Thu, 12 Jun 2014 20:00:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116705/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116705/
<![CDATA[End of Year Party for Lucky Leaf 4-H Club]]>

Lucky Leaf 4-H Club members celebrated their end of year party at the Blanco Bowling Alley. The club has had a very successful year and would like to thank the club sponsors Sheila Mercer and Terri Waxler for their hard work and support throughout the year.

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Fri, 06 Jun 2014 20:12:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116626/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116626/
<![CDATA[It’s All About Birds and Migration]]>

Blanco will have a wonderful opportunity on July 13 to hear well known birder and traveler, Bob Warneke, speak on the subject Migration: Birders Should Do It Too. The event will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. The talk will be followed by a gourmet dinner. A raffle and silent auction will help raise money for Blanco’s Good Samaritan Center and New Life Children’s Center in Canyon Lake. Tickets are limited and include the talk, dinner and one raffle ticket.

As well as being a great traveler and excellent speaker, Mr. Warneke is a recognized national leader in the area of conservation. He served three terms on the board of the American Birding Association and is presently president of the board of the Malcolm C. Damuth Foundation which is an organization devoted to acquisition and protection of natural habitats around the country. He also serves on the board of the Texas Conservation Alliance.

For more information and to purchase tickets please call 830 833-4771 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Fri, 06 Jun 2014 20:11:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116625/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116625/
<![CDATA[Dr. Schramm Receives Chamber’s Night Sky Friendly Business Recognition Certificate]]>
Dr. Kenneth L. Schramm (3rd from left), Debbie Schramm (2nd from left), and Dr. Scott Jurica (left) receive the Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit Tuesday from Curtis Knutson, Chamber President (2nd from right) and Libbey Aly, Chamber Executive Director (right). Not Pictured: Retta Martin, Chairperson, Blanco Historic Commission.
By Wayne Gosnell

Dr. Kenneth Schramm, Debbie Schramm, and newly-arrived associate, Dr. Scott Jurica, were presented the Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit by Curtis Knutson, Chamber President, on Tuesday, June 3, 2014. The outdoor lighting fixtures on Dr. Schramm’s office on Highway 281 just off Blanco’s Square now comply fully with Blanco’s Unified Development Code in that they do not shine above the horizon to cause light pollution in Blanco’s skies nor do they cause any significant glare off premises.

Upon receiving the Certificate of Merit, Dr. Schramm stated, “Dr. Jurica, my wife, Debbie, and I fully support preserving the Hill Country’s nighttime skies. The health, well being, and enjoyment of all Blanco citizens is significantly enhanced by a dark night sky. We are glad we could help out in even a small way by making sure all our outdoor lights are night sky-friendly.”

The Chamber’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Recognition Program now has nine local businesses that have been singled out for recognition. Curtis Knutson, Chamber President, stated “The Chamber is delighted that another of our members has qualified to be a Night Sky-Friendly Business. We make these recognitions in conjunction with the Hill Country Alliance, so we’re part of a Hill Country-wide effort in night sky preservation. We hope our entire membership will eventually follow the Schramm’s good example.”

Because Dr. Schramm’s office is situated in Blanco’s Historic District, the outdoor lighting at the office is particularly important. Retta Martin, Chairperson of Blanco’s Historic Commission, emphasized this point stating, “Having good outdoor lighting in Blanco’s Historic District is essential to maintaining the unique, rural ‘sense of place’ that is the Blanco we all love. Businesses such as the Schramm’s that place high value in preserving our night skies by controlling their outdoor lighting also preserve our rural heritage. This is something we should all greatly appreciate.”

For more information about the Chamber’s program and how to become a Night Sky-Friendly business, contact the Blanco Chamber of Commerce at (830) 833-5101; info@blancochamber.com. For information on how to join, for free, the Hill Country Alliance’s Night Sky Co-op, go to www.hillcountryalliance.org/HCA/HillCountryNightSkyCoop.

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Fri, 06 Jun 2014 19:57:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116614/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116614/
<![CDATA[Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Program Kicks Off]]> By Crystal Spybuck

Hey Kids! Join us for our Fizz, Boom, Read Summer Reading program! Kids ages 6 and younger, you can win prizes for every 10 books you read! Kids ages 7 and older can win prizes for every 10 hours you read! We have programs for kids ages 4-10 every week this summer:

June 1st – August 2nd, 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

June 6th- How Does Your Garden Grow?, June 13th- Spiders!, June 20th- Soda Experiments, and June 27th- Bubble Fun.

July 3rd- Building Circuits with PEC (Pre-sign up required), July 11th- Magnetic Attraction, July 18th- Mystery Science, July 25th- Closing Party!

Do you have free time on your hands? Do you want to get to know your neighbors? Then signup to be a volunteer at the Blanco Library! We have many opportunities available. Stop by the library June 16th-21st during our Volunteer Signup Week to learn more!

Check out our Photo Contest Rules on our Home Page! Winner receives a FREE KINDLE! As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Accused by Lisa Scottoline, Afterburn/Aftershock by Sylvia Day, Aimless Love by Billy Collins, Americanah by Chimamanda Adichie, Dark Lycan by Christine Feehan, Deadly Heat by Richard Castle, Gabriel’s Redemption by Sylvain Reynard, Moving Target by Judith A. Jance, Returned by Jason Mott, Tatiana by Martin Cruz Smith, and Walking Dead: Rise of the Governor by Robert Kirkman.

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Fri, 06 Jun 2014 19:56:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116613/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116613/
<![CDATA[Wild Woman Weekend Earns $40,000 for Local Non-Profits]]>
From L-R: Cyndy Granberg Hounsell, Marilynn Lageman, Linda Nash, and Andree Barns.
By Cyndy Granberg Hounsell

The Blanco Non-Profit Coalition, otherwise know as Wild Woman Weekend, is dishing out again to four non-profits in Blanco. This time they are dishing up $40,000. That is an increase of $12,000 from last year. Thank you to all of the volunteers and the Blanco community for making this second event even more successful than the first one.

On June 2nd, Cyndy Granberg Hounsell, treasurer of BNPC, presented checks for $10,000 to each of the non-profits: Marilynn Lageman, Friends of the State Park; Linda Nash, Blanco Library, Inc.; Andree Barns, Old Blanco County Courthouse Preservation Society; Gem of the Hills Senior Citizens Community Center. These organizations work hard to support the citizens of Blanco, and these funds will support their efforts.

We loved dishing out seconds, and cannot wait to dip up thirds! Wild Woman Weekend has started planning for their third ultimate gal-pal road event to be held the second weekend of April 2015. With such a fantastic track record and with Blanco women working tirelessly for their community, the expectations are high that the achievements will continue the third time around. Mark your calendars and come join the fun. Ladies if you would like to join with other women in our community to help this action packed weekend achieve even greater heights, contact Connie Barron at goddessfit@aol.com or Bette Vest at bettemv@gmail.com, and they will be glad to put your talents to work for the benefit of the Blanco Non-Profit Coalition.

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Fri, 06 Jun 2014 19:05:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116607/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116607/
<![CDATA[Two Blanco Residents Graduate From Master Naturalist Course]]>
Blanco residents Suzanne Atkinson, seated left, and Steve Scheffe, standing, are new Master Naturalists, having completed an intense, 12-week course of study in mid-May and graduating last Thursday (May 22). Scheffe also earned his Master Naturalist Certification, with 40 hours of Volunteer Service and eight hours of Advanced Training completed during the year. Others in the photo are Jan Belz, center, and Katherine Romans, both of Austin, who also earned their Master Naturalist designation in a ceremony at The Trails Clubhouse in Horseshoe Bay.
(Photo by Kay Herring)

Two residents of Blanco – Suzanne Adkinson and Steve Scheffe – were among the 21 men and women who graduated last week from the 12-week Master Naturalist course of study offered this past spring by the Highland Lakes Master Naturalist Chapter.

Scheffe, who also spends time in Austin, earned a special designation – Certified Master Naturalist – for completing 40 hours of Volunteer Service and eight hours of Advanced Training during the year. Only 11 of the 21 graduates earned this designation by graduation time. Adkinson will earn her certification designation later this year.

The 40-hour course is part of a state-wide program sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Graduation ceremonies for the class were held Thursday (May 22) at The Trails Clubhouse in Horseshoe Bay.

The Master Naturalist organization and the course, which is offered every year, emphasize the inter-connectedness of humans and nature and prepare graduates to share their knowledge with others in the area through a minimum of 40 hours a year of Volunteer Service. All study is geared toward a better knowledge and understanding of the Texas – and specifically the Central Texas – ecosystem. The course typically starts in February and ends in May.

During the one-day a week, 12-week course, the students studied 20-plus topics, delivered by experts in the fields of ecology, geology, climate and soils, ecosystem concepts, plants, ornithology (birds), entomology (insects), ichthyology (fish), herpetology (snakes), mammalogy (animals), archeology, and the ecology and management of forests, aquatics, wetlands and rangelands. Extremely knowledgeable guest speakers on the topics and field trips to various locals in the Highland Lakes were highlights of the course, according to several graduates.

The course is offered annually, generally beginning in February. Requests for the limited class space of 20 should be made in January. Persons interested in knowing more about the Master Naturalist program can go to the Web site of the Highland Lakes Master Naturalist Chapter at http://txmn.org/highlandlakes/ .

In addition to the two Blanco graduates, the others in the Class of 2014 are: Marble Falls / Meadowlakes: Linda Brown, Kay Herring, Lou Ann Holland, Sandra Landis; Kingsland/Sunrise Beach: Judy Haralson, Marilyn McClain, Alice Rheaume, Tracy Salmi; Lynn Wolheim, and Jan Belz, Kingsland/Austin; Burnet: Mary Musselman. Horseshoe Bay: Donald Cruver, Hanna Drago, Ann Stevenson; Spicewood: Beth Mortenson, Anne Holly, Wayne Holly; Other Highland Lakes areas: John De La Garza, Buchanan Dam; Katherine Romans, Austin.

More than half of the students, who have already completed the 40 hours of Volunteer Service requirement, in addition to eight hours of Advanced Training, received their Certified Master Naturalist designation. They are Linda Brown, Donald Cruver, Hanna Drago, Judy Haralson, Lou Ann Holland, Mary Musselman, Alice Rheaume, Tracy Salmi, Scheffe, Ann Stevenson, and Lynn Wolheim.

Coordinator of this year’s class was Ralph Herter of Burnet; Melanie Huff was assistant coordinator.

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Thu, 05 Jun 2014 21:22:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116569/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116569/
<![CDATA[Dr. Scott Jurica, DC to Join Dr. Ken Schramm, DC in Blanco Beginning June 2]]>

Dr. Scott Jurica, DC, born in Austin and raised in south Texas, grew up around natural and holistic medicine his entire life. His parents made his baby food from organically grown food from their garden. As a child, he witnessed his cousin, Dr. Logan Cox, do amazing things on his patients and knew he had the same passion to heal and help people get healthy naturally.

Dr. Scott Jurica finished his pre-med studies at Texas A&M and his bachelors degree at Southwest Texas (now Texas State) in San Marcos. He then completed Chiropractic School at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, as well as his Masters in Nutrition, as well as in excess of 500 hours of postgraduate work with some of the most esteemed doctors in the world.

Dr. Jurica took on one of his greatest challenges and accomplishments by starting his practice in the heart of New York City. He can attest for anyone who deals with a high amount of stress in his/her life, by taking the leap to build his practice from scratch in the Big Apple. Through great faith and perseverance, the practice continued to prosper, as did he as a doctor and person.

While practicing in New York City, he fell in love with another native Texan, got married and started a family. Their son is now a toddler and they knew in their gut, returning home to Texas was inevitable. The path to get there was unknown, until now.

Once Dr. Scott Jurica was in contact with Dr. Schramm, he knew they were like minded and this was the right fit. Dr. Schramm is one of the most respected holistic doctors in his field and it will be exciting to partner with him and take what Dr Jurica has learned from practicing in NYC and add Dr. Schramm's 37+ years of experience.

Dr. Scott and wife Lisa are thrilled to be back in Texas and Dr. Jurica looks forward to bringing his knowledge and passion to each and every patient while working closely with Dr. Schramm during this exciting new chapter of his life. Everyone deserves to feel healthy, happy and full of life!

Please go to our website at www.drkenschramm.com and click on ‘about Dr. Jurica’ to read more and contact/welcome him. Or better yet, give him a call at (830) 992-9790, or email at info@drscottjurica.com. Be on the lookout for our Grand Re-opening at the end of June, and stop by during Lavender Festival for a meet and greet!

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Thu, 05 Jun 2014 21:11:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116563/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116563/
<![CDATA[Old 300 Bar-B-Q Honored with Night Sky-Friendly Award]]>
Blanco Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Libbey Aly presents the Chamber’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit to the Old 300 Bar-B-Q. Old 300 owner, Mike Betzer (left), and manager, Ladd Pepper (right), received the award beneath the long dormant, “Y’all Come and Eat,” red arrow, now made Night Sky-Friendly.
By Wayne Gosnell

On Friday, May 24, 2014, the Old 300 Bar-B-Q received the Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Certificate of Merit. Chamber Executive Director Libby Aly presented the certificate to Mike Betzer, owner of the Old 300, on behalf of Curtis Knutson, Chamber President.

Mike and his wife, Sue, are intent on ensuring that the Old 300, situated at 4th and Pecan Streets on the corner of Blanco’s Historic Square, blends into the overall milieu of historic Blanco. One important way of doing this is to have outdoor lighting that does not trespass off the property line, does not produce annoying glare, and does not shine above the horizon to cause light pollution and degrade the nighttime skies above Blanco.

Preservation of Blanco’s night skies is an intregal part of Blanco’s Historic Preservation Action Plan, a plan approved by the Blanco City Council and overseen by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. Having starry skies is part and parcel of Blanco’s treasured rural heritage, a heritage that is diminished wherever there is light pollution. The Blanco Chamber of Commerce’s Night Sky-Friendly Business Recognition Program, implemented in cooperation with the Bee Cave-based Hill Country Alliance, supports this preservation goal by recognizing businesses with good outdoor lighting.

“We are excited about our Night Sky-Friendly Business Recognition Program and the positive support it has amongst our Chamber members,” said Aly. “We appreciate the support of the City Council and value our cooperation with the Hill Country Alliance. We look forward to recognizing many more of our Blanco businesses and organizations and to helping others make their establishments truly Night Sky-Friendly.”

For more information about the Chamber’s program and how to become a Night Sky-Friendly business, contact the Blanco Chamber of Commerce at (830) 833-5101; info@blancochamber.com. For information on how to join, for free, the Hill Country Night Sky Co-op, go to www.hillcountryalliance.org/HCA/HillCountryNightSkyCoop.

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Thu, 05 Jun 2014 21:06:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116562/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116562/
<![CDATA[BVFD Appoints New Board Members, EMS Sees Calls Increase]]> By Merannda Button

The May 19th regular meeting of the South Blanco County ESD #2 began with a clarification to last month’s minutes. It was declared that all Fire Department funds kept in Blanco National Bank are tax dollars and that all funds in Cattleman’s (Lone Star) Bank are donation monies or revenue from fundraisers.

During the Treasurer’s Report, ESD Board President Ann Hall told attendees that the ESD had received a clean audit as done by Neffendorf, Knopp, Doss and Co. and gave a short overview. It was moved and approved to accept the audit. Treasurer Mary Ann Millard reported that after looking into CD options at other banks, she thought it would be better to stay with Blanco National Bank, but to look into their options again in September. She also reported a current total balance of $389,792.21. Finally, it was decided that it was time for the ESD to purchase a laptop computer with Office and Quickbooks for sole use by the ESD. The computer had already been budgeted for and approved to purchase.

EMS Director Mike West reported 76 calls for the month, including 17 walk-ups and 9 mutual aid calls, with an average response time of 6.79 minutes. As the budgets for EMS and VFD are due June 1st, West gave the ESD a look at some of the EMS’s expanded budget categories, “Ya’ll sent out a list last month, of how you wanted items broken down a little more, and I agree with that. This is simply a description of every account listing for Blanco EMS.” He asked the Board to let him know if they had more suggestions, and told the board he would be breaking down a few more line items, like payroll, before the Budget would be finished.

Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ron Sallman reported a total of 12 calls for the month, which included 2 EMS assists and 2 calls cancelled en route. Average response time was 10 minutes 42 seconds. He also reported that all 9 sets of bunker gear had arrived, as well as 9 sets of wildland gear. They also received a new training library and a new laptop, items that were funded with grants. The new extrication equipment, purchased partially with Fish Fry money and the cost supplemented with taxpayer dollars, has also arrived and been installed.

Fire Department Board President Harvey Lindeman reported that the Board had gained two new members and filled the Treasurer and Secretary Position with Jim Harris and Sally Windham respectively. ESD Treasurer Mary Ann Millard and President Ann Hall requested from the Fire Department Board clearer and more precise accounting reports during the monthly meetings. Specifically requested were accounting documents including Purchase Orders, Invoices, and receipts for large purchases, and a report of checks written. Lindeman replied that he would “take care of it.”

Dar Labarthe gave an update on the Strategic Plan. He explained that he had found a volunteer who will be working with him during the summer to “help develop a proposed action plan and time related targets that will be available for discussion by all parties by the end of the summer.” The volunteer is a Blanco resident and student at St. George University. The volunteer’s work will be part of a project for his academic program. As part of the Strategic Plan update, Fire Chief Ron Sallman spoke on a few items related to bettering Blanco’s ISO rating, including that the Fire Department now had access to a water tank in Rockin J, in order to better serve customers in that development. The Fire Department Chief and Board Members also reported that an “initial plan” had been developed for VFD to become a First Responder Unit.

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Thu, 05 Jun 2014 20:57:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116558/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116558/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Approve Ordering a Local Option Liquor Election in Precinct Four]]> By Tricia Hartmann

Blanco County Commissioners Court held a Special meeting on Tuesday May 27, 2014, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting was held in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City, Texas. Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie and all County Commissioners except Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg attended the Special meeting. After Judge Guthrie called the Special meeting to order the Commissioners Court stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman read the minutes of the Regular meeting of May 13, 2014. Blanco County Commissioner Chris Liesmann gave a motion to accept the minutes as read, and this motion was seconded by County Commissioner John Wood. No discussion followed, and the minutes were approved.

Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners, “a petition has been filed and signatures have been collected for an election to be held on November 4, 2014. The election would legalize the legal sale of all alcoholic beverages, including mixed beverages.” Judge Guthrie added that he had heard of no opposition to the petition. Blanco County Commissioner Wood made a motion to order an election on November 4, 2014. The motion was seconded by County Commissioner Liesmann. Judge Guthrie asked if anyone wished to speak on this matter, and there was no discussion. The motion carried.

Blanco County Commissioner James Sultemeier asked the Commissioners Court to consider authorization for paving bids for Precinct Two. No discussion followed the motion made by Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by County Commissioner Wood; this motion passed.

Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners Court that his office had received the 2013 audit for the South Blanco County Emergency Services District. A motion to accept the audit was given by Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by County Commissioner Wood. There was no discussion, and the motion carried.

Judge Guthrie directed the attention of the Commissioners Court to the packets the County Commissioners were given regarding the 33rd & 424th Judicial District Courts Administrative Order Setting Compensation of Court Appointed Attorney Fees for Burnet, Blanco, Llano, and San Saba Counties. Judge Guthrie told the Court that he would answer any questions.

A public hearing had been held on April 9th, 2014 in Burnet County, Texas, pursuant to Section 551.001(3), Texas Open Meetings Act for the following purposes: Setting the criminal and juvenile fee for appointed attorneys at the standard hourly fee to $75 per hour. Setting the criminal and juvenile fee for appointed attorneys on capital murder cases at the standard hourly fee to $100 per hour. Setting the Child Protective fee for appointed attorneys at the standard hourly fee to $75 per hour. Set the maximum the number of payable hours for in-court at 10. Set the maximum number of payable hours for out-of-court at 10.

A motion to acknowledge the Administrative Order was given by Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by County Commissioner Liesmann. The motion passed with no discussion or opposition.

The Commissioners Court approved the outstanding bills in the amount of $98,210.79. A motion for approval of the outstanding bills was made by Blanco County Commissioner Wood and seconded by County Commissioner Sultemeier. The business of the Special meeting was concluded after a motion to adjourn and a reminder from Judge Guthrie and County Commissioner Sultemeier for everyone to get out and vote.

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Thu, 05 Jun 2014 20:54:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116556/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116556/
<![CDATA[Blanco Performing Arts to Close Season with Blanco Native, Julia Pautz]]>

Blanco Performing Arts closes their season “Outside the Music Box” on Sunday afternoon, June 1 at 3:00 at the Uptown Blanco Ballroom with Blanco native Julia Pautz who returns in a full length solo recital with collaborative pianist Dr. Maimy Fong.

This program of Beethoven, Brahms, Gershwin, and Sarasate promises to woo and wow. Hailed by the Dallas Morning News as “a genuine virtuoso”, Julia has been a member of the San Diego Symphony since 2010. Graduating with honors from Cleveland Institute of Music, she earned her master’s degree at University of Southern California and a professional studies certificate from The Colburn Conservatory both with renowned violin pedagogue Robert Lipsett. She has appeared at the Aspen Music Festival, Brevard Music Center, ENCORE School for Strings, the Sarasota Music Festival, and Basically Beethoven music series. She has recently presented solo recitals in southern California to acclaim.

Dr. Maimy Fong, pianist & vocal coach, has played everywhere from Weill Hall at Carnegie, to Dell Hall at the Long Center. She earned a Bachelor's degree in piano with a concentration in vocal accompanying from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. She also completed Master's and Doctoral degrees in piano performance at the University of Texas at Austin School of Music. She has worked for the Des Moines Metro Opera, Austin Lyric Opera, and was the first pianist-coach in El Paso Opera's Artist-in-Residence Program. In 2009, she helped co-found and now is Artistic Director for the "Feed Your Soul" Music Series at Dell Children's Medical Center. For more information, please visit the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FeedYourSoulAustin. In Austin, she maintains an active schedule of playing chamber music, instrumental and voice recitals, teaching, and vocal coaching.

A limited number of tickets are still available. Visit www.blancoperformingarts.com or call 830-385-1173for information and tickets.

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Fri, 23 May 2014 21:03:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116391/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116391/
<![CDATA[Geocache “Race” Finishes in Blanco]]>
Wayne Gosnell (Right) holds the far-travelling toy Lamborghini and stands next to Karlis Gangis (Left) who help the car get back to Blanco.

Wayne Gosnell was surprised recently when Karlis Gangis, a citizen of the country of Latvia in Eastern Europe, showed up in Blanco bearing an unexpected treasure -- a bright yellow, cast metal, toy Lamborghini, the winner of the "Great Trans-AtlanticTuscany to Texas Motor Race."

Wayne and his wife, Martha, had placed the Lamborghini, along with two other cars, a Mercedes and a Corvette, in a geocache in the Tuscany region of Italy four years ago with the goal of “racing” it back to Blanco, moved along by fellow geocachers.

Geocaching is a high tech sport in which participants use GPS units to find hidden “treasures" all over the world. "Trackables", such as the three toy automobiles, can be placed in geocaches and given a mission, which fellow geocachers can help fulfil.

Wayne and Martha's Mercedes and Corvette trackables crossed the Atlantic first but crashed and burned enroute to Texas. The Lamborghini was lost in Latvia for two years but later reemerged at a geocaching event there.

Karlis, a Microsoft contractor with over 10,000 geocache finds, had a business trip planned to Texas and personally drove the car across the finish line on the Blanco River.

There are at least eighteen geocaches within five miles of Blanco, some with trackables such as the victorious Lamborghini.

To learn more about the amazing sport of geocaching and the other 2.3 million hidden caches, go to www.geocaching.com, join for free, and discover a whole new way of looking at the world.

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Fri, 23 May 2014 20:59:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116390/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116390/
<![CDATA[Library to Close Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day]]> By Crystal Spybuck

Special Announcement: The Library will be CLOSED Monday, May 26th for Memorial Day. Even if your items are stamped due on this day, nothing is actually due. Please have a happy and safe holiday from your friends at the library!

Remember to come see Sunny the Reading Dog today at 3:30pm at the library! For our classical readers, go to our catalog (https://blanco.biblionix.com), click on “See What’s Hot,” and select our “Classical Literature” booklist. For our Western lovers, be sure to check out the new Western Memorial Collection in our large conference room!

Check out our Photo Contest Rules on our Home Page! Winner receives a FREE KINDLE! As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Evening Stars by Susan Mallery, Frozen (novelization) by Disney, Insurgent by Veronica Roth, Monuments Men by Robert M. Edsel, NYPD Red 2 by James Patterson, Still Life with Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen, The Traitor’s Wife by Allison Pataki, and We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler.

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Fri, 23 May 2014 20:49:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116381/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116381/
<![CDATA[PEC Members to Decide on Voting System]]> By Jodi Lehman

With party primary elections coming to a close next week, area residents face another vote, to determine two seats on the Pedernales Electric Cooperative Board of Directors. PEC members will also have the opportunity to vote to continue with “at large” elections for directors or to change to a “single member district voting” system that allows only members within a district to vote for who will serve as the district's director.

Under the current at large system of voting, candidates for the PEC board must reside within the boundaries of the district they seek to represent, but all 217,860 PEC members from PEC's entire service area have the right to vote for who will represent the individual districts.

The PEC's seven districts span 8,100 square miles and 24 counties. PEC's service area is demographically and geographically diverse, home to rapidly growing cities as well as expansive ranch land. Some PEC members believe the interests of members living in urban centers differ from those of members in rural areas of PEC's reach. Others believe the business interest of PEC trumps any geographical differences.

Texas Senator Troy Fraser strongly favors changing to a single member district voting system. Even though the PEC has come a long way since Senator Fraser had to force open the doors at PEC (the board actually locked the doors to its board room to prevent members and the press from attending board meetings), Fraser feels the transformation of the PEC governance structure will not be complete until it implements single member district voting.

Dave Collins, a retired management consultant residing in Johnson City, said he came to understand the various, competing sides of the issue of single member district voting when he was involved with the PEC Board’s Governance Committee and the issue of voting structure was debated. “There are certainly attractions to the single member district approach, but the PEC Board is not a legislative body like a City Council or County Commissioner’s Court. It is a corporate board and like any corporate board member, each PEC director is obliged to represent all PEC members, equally. Single member district voting undermines that obligation, one specified in the governing documents of the cooperative. So, I continue to support at-large voting.”

Milton Hawkins of Johnson City, who was an early leader in making PEC a more transparent governing entity, favors the new single member district system because it “allows the owner-members in a district to elect their own representative, without outside interference, and is the only hope of rescuing our cooperative from the Austin area dominated, green-at-any-cost crowd that has been able to control the PEC board for the last several elections.”

Blanco County Attorney David Hall was a leader in the efforts to reform PEC and strengthen members' rights at PEC favors changing to single member district voting. “If I thought it logical and productive for me to vote in an El Paso congressional district, or for a Dallas socialite to vote in mine, I would support at large voting.”

So how do the current batch of candidates feel about changing to single member district voting? The two District 2 candidates are split on the issue. Incumbent Bill Boggs favors continuing the at large system because it is “based on the long standing cooperative principle of one member/one vote every year.” However, Boggs said he can “live with whatever the members decide” and will act to implement the members' choice if re-elected to the board. Emily Pataki “strongly favors” changing to a single member district voting system to encourage more local involvement in PEC matters. “I think the PEC membership deserves to know its directors better, and the best way for that to happen is for directors to be more tied to their districts during the election process. Additionally, it will save the co-op time and money each year if we only have to send ballots to the districts that are electing directors.”

The four candidates for District 3 director are mixed on changing voting systems. Incumbent Kathryn Scanlon favors retaining the current at large system because “directors are elected to represent all members, so all members should be able to vote for all directors.” Scanlon said, “I can't imagine any business having directors elected by getting votes from only shareholders that live in different geographical areas.”

Candidate Arnold LeVine favors changing to the single member district voting system because it “prevents special interest groups outside a district from dominating what should be a local election decision.” LeVine believes directors should not only live in the districts they represent but also be known in their districts. “I live in Austin; no one in Junction or Blanco knows me.”

Candidate Judy Lawler Pokorny also backs changing to single member district voting to elect PEC’s directors. “Since PEC directors are each related to a specific district or geographical area, it seems to me to be more in alignment with the spirit of the way the cooperative has established the board.”

At the PEC candidate forum on April 24, candidate Don Zimmerman favored the current at large system but has since been swayed by the “overwhelming” grass roots movement and now supports changing to a single member district voting system.

Three years ago, PEC members were split when asked to select between three different voting systems: retain the at large system (8,122 votes), change to single member district voting (6,400 votes), or adopt a hybrid system with some directors elected in districts and others elected at large (4,212). Less than 10% of the over 200,000 PEC members eligible to vote in that election opted to voice their opinion regarding how directors are elected to serve on the PEC board.

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Fri, 23 May 2014 14:59:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116352/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116352/
<![CDATA[Newly-Elected Blanco City Council Members Congratulated by Mayor]]>
Roxie Avants pins a hand made poppy to Coucil Member Maria Guerrero in honor of Veterans for Memorial Day.
By Priscilla Seals

Blanco Mayor Chuck Homan congratulated re-elected council members Martin Sauceda, Bobby McClung, and Al Turner at the May 13 regular meeting of the governing body of Blanco. However, he expressed disappointment at the low voter turn-out, with only 46 citizens casting votes in the May 10 election. “ I wish more people would come out and take an active role in our city government,” he said. Candidate Jim Raby lost by a slim margin of two votes to the three incumbents. Council members canvassed the votes and voted to accept the results.

The issue of dealing with loud vehicles and noisy neighbors was discussed several times during the meeting, first by Retta Martin during the Open Comments portion of the meeting. She referred to the signs on Highway 281 entering Blanco which forbid trucks from engine-braking, but said that other trucks are often noisy. Police Chief Mike Ritchey said that the city does not own any devices to measure the decibel level in order to enforce a noise ordinance. Resident Martha Gosnell said that complaining to the police about noisy neighbors was effective when she lived near noisy A&M students in Bryan. Chief Ritchey responded that complaints about loud, inconsiderate neighbors will be investigated, but that noisy vehicles cannot be dealt with in that way. Later in his police report, Chief Ritchey was asked by City Attorney Eddy Rogers about the cost of devices to measure decibel levels. Rogers volunteered to work with the chief to investigate the cost of the devices and bring back a report to council. Resident Roxie Avants complained about a loud vehicle near her home and was told by Chief Ritchey to call the department when it happens again, and someone will definitely respond.

American Legion Auxiliary members Randi Weeks and Roxie Avants used the Public Comments time to pin poppies on council members and the mayor in honor of veterans for Memorial Day. “Thank you very much for letting us honor the veterans,” said Mrs. Avants. State Representative Jason Isaac presented an “Honor and Remember” flag to the city to be flown on designated holidays such as Memorial Day and whenever a Texan service member dies in the line of duty. Details about the symbolism of the flag can be found at the honorandremember.org website. Isaac thanked all veterans and family members present at the meeting. Mayor Homan said he would make sure the flag is flown on Memorial Day.

Also in the Public Comments time, PEC representative Tessa Schmidtzinsky reminded council and residents about the upcoming annual PEC meeting June 21 at the Leander ISD South Performing Arts Center in Cedar Park. Two directors and a ballot initiative will be voted on. PEC members can vote by mail, online, or in person at the meeting, which will include family-friendly activities.

Other comments included a plea by Retta Martin for the city to ban plastic bags, which have been responsible for the death of several animals who have ingested them. A question about new signage identifying handicapped-accessible curbs was answered by the mayor, who said they are the work of TxDOT and that the city was not consulted. Finally, resident Roxie Avants praised the police department for their efficient work in dealing with a lock-down at Blanco Elementary School last week. Al Turner added that he had heard positive comments from dozens of residents about the department’s quick action.

Planning and Zoning Commission representative Martha Gosnell recommended the appointment of Jon Brieger to P&Z, based on a unanimous vote at their last meeting. Council voted to approve the appointment.

Blanco South Library District Vice-President Greg Hinton and member Dave Lageman reported on sources for the library’s funding, which include a lump sum of $12K from the city of Blanco, $5K from Blanco County, in addition to tax revenue, tax revenue of $67,345K, income of $43,500 from the non-profit Blanco Library Inc. organization, and $7,200 from fund-raising by the Friends of the Blanco Library. These funds constitute 88 percent of the library’s annual funding, which allows it to serve its 6,000 patrons. “There is no resource more valuable to our young people,” said Lageman, adding that the continuing education opportunities it provides are vital to the adults who use it. Volunteers gave 7000 hours of their time in 2010 through 2012-- providing the library a total dollar value of $50,600.

However, Lageman sounded an ominous tone by projecting that the library may be forced to close or curtail its hours in the future because it will use up its endowment in the next eight to ten years. “It is a community problem,” he concluded. “We must come together to find a solution so that our 6,000 patrons can enjoy the benefits that the library provides.”

Blanco Fire Chief Ron Sallman reported 12 total calls in April, with 71 calls for the year to date. Average response time was 10 minutes and 42 seconds, which was longer than usual because of grass fires at the edge of the fire district, according to Sallman. He informed council that the department’s new bunker gear has arrived, which he called “the latest and greatest,” thanks to grants from Texas A&M University. The grants have also allowed the department to purchase a training library and new SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) packs, which provide 45 minutes of air. The city fire truck has been fitted with a gas and cyanide detector, as well as extrication equipment--$42k worth of equipment, according to Sallman. The department’s volunteer corps has risen to 16, up from three last November, and will cap at 20 when the gear is available. A donation of bunk beds to the firehouse has enabled the department to move toward lowering the city’s ISO rating by allowing 24-7 staffing at certain times, such as the Real Ale Ride on May 17.

The fire department has determined that 96 addresses in the city have entrances which are inaccessible to fire trucks, due to low tree limbs, low-hanging utility wires, or vehicles blocking access. Sallman explained that the clearance for a fire truck is 14 feet, six inches, and that brushing an overhead utility wire would be extremely hazardous for a truck or a firefighter. “It’s something we need to address from an ISO standpoint,” warned Sallman, since the ISO inspector will drive down every street before compiling his report. The mayor asked for a copy of the list in order to notify residents, who may not even be aware of a problem.

Finally, Sallman asked for direction in making improvements to the fire department building, which is leased from the city. The mayor said he would ask Pete McKinney, the code compliance officer, to meet with the chief.

Police Chief Ritchey provided council members with statistics for the month of April, saying that they look “real good.” “You are doing a fine job,” responded Al Turner. The issue of additional radios was raised by the mayor, who requested that some money be found in the budget to have a radio at city hall. He complained that since the new system has been put in place, he can only talk to the Blanco State Park. Chief Ritchey said he needs an additional radio for the police station as well. No action was taken on that request, and the meeting adjourned without the need for an executive session.

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Fri, 23 May 2014 14:52:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116350/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116350/
<![CDATA[9th Annual 5K Fun Run for Project Graduation]]>
1st Place Male, Joaquin Olmeda and 1st Place Female, Noemi Houshmand

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Mon, 19 May 2014 17:37:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116323/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116323/
<![CDATA[Rebecca Howerton’s Western Collection Now Available at the Blanco Library]]> By Crystal Spybuck

Dear Western Lovers,

We are happy to announce a special collection just for you! In our large conference room, we have assembled a selection of Rebecca Howerton’s personal Western collection. Thanks to a generous donation from her daughter, Renee Howerton, this collection is beautifully on display and available for check out. We have Louis L’Amour’s leatherette bound books so you can enjoy the feel of a good book. There you will also find the nearly complete collection of William Johstone’s books as well. Be sure to stop by and check out our Western Memorial Collection.

Also, for our classical readers, go to our catalog (https://blanco.biblionix.com), click on “See What’s Hot,” and select our “Classical Literature” booklist. We have been working hard for nearly a year to assemble our collection of true Classical Literature. This collection is great for those brushing up on their reading and those preparing for college!

Check out our Photo Contest on our Home Page!

As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Cincuenta sombras de Grey por E.L. James, Inferno por Dan Brown (español), The Last Dark by Stephen Donaldson, and Missing You by Harlan Coben.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 17:30:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116320/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116320/
<![CDATA[Fifth Annual Kids Day Out at Blanco State Park]]>
Herpetologist Jared Holmes gave a presentation on snakes and their importance to our ecosystem.Photo by Karyn Parker.
From Karen Lundquist

Blanco State Park was a beehive of activity on Friday, May 9, when more than 80 third graders from Blanco Elementary School descended upon the park for the 5th annual Kids Day Out Program. Although the weather forecast was for the possibility of rain, the day started out warm, calm and humid. However, by the end of the program, we all had to rush for cover as the skies opened, up bringing some much needed, very welcome rains.

The Kids Day Out Program is a day for the third graders to experience nature first-hand outside of the traditional classroom. They are exposed to a wide array of subjects and are provided hands-on opportunities to learn about various aspects of wildlife and the environment. The program this year was supported by numerous volunteers, most of whom were Highland Lakes Master Naturalists (the Highland Lakes Chapter covers Blanco, Llano and Burnet Counties).

Throughout the day, the third graders moved through a series of learning stations which focused on different animal species: mammals, bats, birds, fish and spiders. They also participated in an interactive game where they explored the habitat needs of wildlife and how different species compete for resources in order to survive. The final station involved a watershed model which addressed topics such as pollution, erosion and the impact of human actions on the water around us.

The day concluded with a presentation by local herpetologist Jared Holmes who shared his cache of snakes with the kids, ensuring that they understood the importance of snakes to the ecosystem and helping them to develop a respect and appreciation for them.

Organizer Connie Barron reported that departing comments from the children, teachers, parents and volunteers indicated that a fun and rewarding time was had by all. In fact, one student said that this was his first visit to Blanco State Park and, to quote him, “It was one of the best days of my life!” Simply, but powerfully put! Thanks to all who helped make this another successful “Kids Day Out” at Blanco State Park.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 17:26:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116319/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116319/
<![CDATA[2nd Annual Memorial Day Fundraiser Set for May 25]]> By American Legion Post 352 Commander, Teddy Weeks

As you’re looking forward to the summer ahead with picnics, swimming, horse back riding or just soaking up some sun., Memorial Highway Post 352 of the American Legion would like to invite you to their 2nd Annual Memorial Day Fajita fundraiser.

We hope you will stop by and enjoy a great Fajita Dinner after church; we will have our smoker on the north side of the court house May 25, 2014 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm.

We hope you will come out and remember what Memorial Day is about, those who gave all. Blanco County has a history of strong military support.

Blanco County’s veterans go all the way back to the: Indian Wars, Texas Rangers, Civil War, W.W.I, W.W.II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Panama, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the War on Terror.

Blanco County has been strong for Independence through-out our history. May we remember our veterans this holiday? I for one am proud of Blanco County Veterans.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 17:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116316/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116316/
<![CDATA[Class of 1954 Meets for Reunion]]>

The class of 1954 met at the Canyon Lake cabin of Merle Sewick, Saturday, May 10, with eleven of the original twenty-three members present. Joyce Page Torney and Merle Bonnet Sewick had prepared an exceptional meal and the setting was ideal. As always, many memories were shared with many laughs and some sadness. Arlon Bindseil gave the blessing and a short narration of our class. He honored those we have lost--Joe B. Wagner, Steve Weber, Truman Hearne, Lee Bagby, Jamie Kay Wagner Simmons, and Betty LaBuff. Plans were made to again have a reunion in three years, possibly first Saturday in May.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 17:05:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116313/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116313/
<![CDATA[Jennings Anderson Ford Awards Scholarship to Local FFA Member]]>
Pictured from L to R: Amy Berg, Alexandria Penshorn, Nancy and Tito Romero)

Alexandria Penshorn, a 2014 graduate of Blanco, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship by Jennings Anderson Ford and Ford Motor Company. Alexandria plans to study Computer Systems in Agriculture at Tarleton State College.

Jennings Anderson Ford has sponsored the scholarship program for the last thirteen years and is proud to be involved in helping students reach their education goals.

The Built Ford Tough Trucks / FFA Scholarship Program is designed to recognize FFA members’ talents and accomplishments while encouraging their future academic achievements.

“We are proud to support the youth in our community like Alexandria and to do our part in helping other young people realize their goals,” said Scott Wilson, Jennings Anderson Ford Dealer Principal. “I wish Alexandria the best of luck at Tarleton State.”

Since the first F-Series truck introduced in 1948, Ford has supported the National FFA Foundation, and for more than 55 years, people all over America have been putting Built Ford Tough Trucks to work. Ford knows the value of hard work, and believes that hard work should be rewarded. Educating aspiring young people to become the leaders of tomorrow is just another way of ensuring a successful future.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 16:53:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116310/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116310/
<![CDATA[City Council Election Results]]>

The three incumbents, Martin Sauceda, Robert "Bobby Mack" McClung, and Al Turner, were able to keep their seats on the City Council. A total of 46 voters participated in the election, and were allowed to vote for multiple candidates.

Unofficial Voting results were as follows:

Martin Sauceda: 30 Votes

Robert "Bobby Mack" McClung: 28 Votes

Al Turner: 25 Votes

Jim Raby: 23 Votes

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Mon, 19 May 2014 16:37:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116305/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116305/
<![CDATA[Girl Scouts Plant Two Trees on BISD Campus]]>

Girl Scout Cadettes and 5th Grade Juniors from Blanco Troop 2104 recently spent an afternoon working hard at the Blanco Elementary Campus. The girls planted two trees on the campus to help improve their community.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 16:34:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116304/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116304/
<![CDATA[Texas Ramp Project Builds in South Blanco]]>
These team members are, left to right, Pastor Lee Romero of the First United Methodist Church in Johnson City, Harry Conger, David Hamm and Samantha Jacks.

Blanco County’s wheelchair ramp builders launched another free one this week, even working in the rain to get it done. The Texas Ramp Project provided the materials and local volunteers provided the labor on behalf of a disabled vet in south Blanco County.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 16:28:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116303/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116303/
<![CDATA[County Commissioners Do Not Reinstate Burn Ban]]> By Tricia Hartmann

Blanco County Commissioners held a Regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. The Commissioners Court met in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse located in Johnson City, Texas. Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie and three County Commissioners were present.

The Regular meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman read the minutes of the Special meeting of April 22nd, 2014. Blanco County Commissioner John Wood gave a motion to accept, and County Commissioner James Sultemeier seconded; the minutes were approved as read.

Judge Guthrie asked the Court to consider opening sealed bids for a parcel of land in Blanco County described as +/- 1,968 square feet, East ½ of Lot 1, Block 8, James Fentress Survey #171, located on N. Avenue G in the city of Johnson City with the minimum bid being set as the appraised value of $10,000. Judge Guthrie reported there was only one sealed bid and he opened it. The bid was from Patty Elliott in the amount of $10,106. Judge Guthrie asked the Commissioners Court to accept the bid, and a motion to accept was made by County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by County Commissioner Paul Granberg. No discussion followed, and the motion carried.

Consideration of the burn ban was raised, and County Commissioner Wood reported, “because we’ve had rain I recommend we pass on the burn ban.” No action was taken, and the burn ban remained off.

The Commissioners Court was asked to consider proclamation declaring May 18-24, 2014 as Emergency Medical Services week in Blanco County. Judge Guthrie read the proclamation to the Court as follows: WHEREAS, emergency medical services is a vital public service; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams are ready to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and WHEREAS, access to quality emergency care dramatically improves the survival and recovery rate of those who experience sudden illness or injury; and WHEREAS, the emergency medical services system consists of emergency physicians, emergency nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, first responders, educators, administrators and others; and WHEREAS, the members of emergency medical services teams, whether career or volunteer, engage in thousands of hours of specialized training and continuing education to enhance their lifesaving skills; and WHEREAS, it is appropriate to recognize the value and the accomplishments of emergency medical services providers by designating Emergency Medical Services Week; now THEREFORE, I, Bill Guthrie, County Judge of Blanco County, Texas in recognition of this event do hereby proclaim the week of May 18-24, 2014 as EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES WEEK.

Blanco County Commissioner Granberg gave a motion to accept the proclamation after it was read, and Commissioner Sultemeier seconded. This motion was approved.

The Commissioners were asked to consider authorization for the County Judge to sign an interlocal agreement with Lubbock County for the Regional Public Defender for Capital Cases program. According to Judge Guthrie, “this has been a continuing program for a number of years. I ask for the authority to sign this contract, and I will be happy to answer any questions.” No questions or discussion followed, and the County Commissioners approved the motion made by County Commissioner Wood to approve the authorization. Commissioner Wood’s motion was seconded by Commissioner Granberg.

Judge Guthrie asked the Commissioners to consider resolution recalling Blanco County Appraisal District Board member Will Shelton pursuant to Section 6.033 of the Texas Property Tax Code. Judge Guthrie told the Court, “he [Shelton] has asked to be recalled. Is there anyone who wishes to speak regarding this issue?” No one spoke, and Judge Guthrie continued, “I would like to thank him for his service.” A motion to accept the resolution was made by County Commissioner Sultemeier and seconded by Commissioner Wood. All members of the Court signed the resolution.

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Mon, 19 May 2014 16:08:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116299/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116299/
<![CDATA[What’s Vibradrumhealing? Find out at the Healing Arts Center May 13]]>

Danny Shuford and Kat Diamond have been on a life changing journey that has brought them to Blanco, Texas. Traveling in a Motorhome from their residence in Colorado, they have been on the road since the fall of 2013 weaving their desire to help others and their musical gifts together to create Vibradrumhealing.

They met in the summer of 2013 while playing together for a Cherokee Medicine Woman in Carbondale, Colorado. At the time Kat had her own holistic Healing Center that included Sound and Dance therapies as well as essential oil treatments for health and wellness. Danny, who had a background in health and fitness, and personal development was also a professional drummer. The two found that they shared a common understanding of the benefits of sound vibration on both the physical and emotional bodies.

Each had already been using sound vibration and movement in a variety of settings with children and adults. Kat decided to join Danny on a tour to Mexico and dissolved her business knowing that the next evolution of transformative work with people was ahead of them. After months of traveling the duo first took their work back to Colorado and offered group, couple, and individual sessions in their unique form of Sound Experience for Transformation.

On May 13th at 7pm, Kat and Danny will offer a group experience in Sound-Essence at the Healing Arts Center of Blanco and Canyon Lake. Participants will be treated to an evening of amazing medicinal essential oils and sound therapies for relaxation, focus, and increased self awareness which supports wellness on all levels. Space is limited so the center asks that you call (830) 833-0510 to reserve. Suggested Donation is $20 and participants are asked to bring their own pillow for comfort.

You can read more about the work at www.vibradrumhealing.com.

The address of the Healing Arts Center is 4520 Hwy 281 South, Blanco, Texas 78606.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 21:05:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116214/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116214/
<![CDATA[Alexandria Penshorn Among PEC Scholarship Receipients]]>
From PEC

Pedernales Electric announced the 14 area high school seniors receiving scholarships from the Co-op during an April reception held in the students’ honor at the Co-op’s headquarters in Johnson City.

“By helping our local students pursue their educational goals, we are investing in their future, as well as the future of our local communities,” said PEC Vice President of Member Services Eddie Dauterive, who also serves as the PEC Scholarship Committee President.

For more than a decade, the Co-op has offered scholarships to local high school and home-schooled seniors in its service area. This year, 345 students applied for 14 scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.

Lisa Hsi, a senior at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy, received the top scholarship worth $10,000. Hsi will be attending Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, this fall to study chemistry and pharmacy. “This scholarship means a lot to me. It has allowed me to consider schools out of state, already giving me greater opportunities,” Hsi said. “I am grateful that an organization [PEC] believes in me and is willing to invest in my education to help me accomplish my goals.”

Recipients were selected based on their applicant profiles, including academic performance, community involvement, extracurricular activities and financial need. Applicants also were evaluated on an essay in which they were asked to identify a person, nonprofit organization or special interest group dedicated to serving their community and to explain how the group has helped influence them.

“We received some amazing responses from students,” said Dauterive. “As a cooperative, PEC strives to bring added value, services and opportunities to our members and communities, and it’s encouraging to see the positive influences and strong support systems our local young adults have.”

To learn more about PEC’s scholarship program, visit www.pec.coop/scholarship.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 20:58:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116208/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116208/
<![CDATA[Lion’s Club Donates to Local Groups]]>

Kathy Copeland, Library Inc. Board, Pie Stone, Good Samaritan, Lions Club President Tom Davidson, Linda Howard, Pioneer Museum, Retta Martin and Judy Dorsett Keep Blanco Beautiful. The Lions Club donated $200 to each as part of the Lion’s Club’s continued effort to support the community.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 20:55:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116205/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116205/
<![CDATA[Sam-Mar Ranch Realty Welcomes Moncure Family to Blanco]]>
From L-R: Doug Moncure, Kim Moncure, Office Manager Megan Topper, Margo Davis, and Sam Davis.

Sam and Margo Davis of Sam-Mar Ranch Realty would like to welcome Doug and Kim Moncure to the Blanco Community.

Coming from Houston, the Moncures sought out property in the Hill Country in order to be closer to family. They have acquired the property at 101 Rolling Hills Road and bring two business to Blanco. Kim is the owner of Cowgirl Kim, an online store that focuses on high-end western, or "unique western chic", clothing and accessories for women; www.cowgirlkim.com. Doug is the owner of M&M Roofing, Siding, and Windows, which has 9 locations throughout Texas and Louisiana. You can visit their website at www.mmroofsiding.com.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 20:46:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116200/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116200/
<![CDATA[Blanco Revs Up for 26th Annual Classic Car Show]]> From Jack Webb

It’s that time of year when we again invite you to join us at the Blanco Classic Car Show at the Blanco State Park on Saturday, May 17th. It is also Armed Forces Day and we cordially invite all Active-duty, veterans, National Guard, Reserves and retired military to attend our FREE show and allow us to thank each and every one of you and your families for your service and sacrifice to our country.

Rev up your engines, turn your radio or CD player up and head to Blanco State Park for this year’s edition of the Blanco Classic Car Show! It is time to show off the hard work you have done over the winter on your favorite special “ride”. It is amazing to watch new and repeat visitors who love these vintage muscle, classic and antique vehicles come down to the banks of the beautiful Blanco River to share their love of these machines.

Classic hotrods, foreign sports cars and antique vehicles of all ages and types await you on Saturday, May 17th, starting at 10:00 AM. The event is “free” to walk-in visitors wishing to view the show and there is ample parking near Blanco State Park. Great food, cold beverages and colorful, commemorative T-shirts will be available for purchase at the show. Awards for this year will include the Park Ranger’s Choice, Mayor’s Choice and Best of Show. Winners in various categories will be selected by ballot during the show.

You and your family will almost be able to hear the songs of the Beach Boys, the Beatles, The Association and Jan & Dean along with your favorite memories from the past as you leisurely walk by the muscle cars, classics and antiques of long ago. The entire family can spend the day surrounded by the sights and sounds of immaculately restored vehicles from a bygone era. Remember the drive-in movies, the car hops at your favorite drive-in restaurant and surfing songs on the AM radio. You know, the days before cell phones, I-Pads, laptops and personal computers when life seemed a little less hectic. Memories will flow back through your mind and heart as you stroll down the lines of restored classic cars, custom cars and trucks. Share those re-awakened memories with your children, grandchildren or even great grandchildren and let them know that grandma and grandpa were once very cool and still are!

As many as 200 restored cars, trucks and other vintage vehicles will be displayed on the grassy banks of the beautiful Blanco River starting at 10 a.m. You can also see pre-1949 classic sedans, limos and vehicles that traveled our Texas highways before the advent of the Interstates. See classic MG’s, Triumphs and other British cars and trucks that now make their home in and around Texas. There is a lot to see at the Blanco Classic Car Show, including Street Rods and Special Interest Vehicles. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. and runs until 11 a.m. with events scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Awards will be presented at 2:00 p.m.

The Blanco Masonic Lodge #216 is the operating sponsor of the show which is co-sponsored by the Blanco State Park. The stated goal of the show is “to provide a showcase for the talents of local and out-of-town car clubs, restoration enthusiasts and collectors”, and to provide fun and entertainment for visitors and participants. While the show is a passion of love for both the participants and organizers, one of the objectives is to generate funds to support community projects, awards and educational support programs, in and around the Blanco community. Revenues, after show expenses, from sponsorships provided by local business and community leaders go to help us provide scholarship programs, reading improvement programs, educational and community recognition awards, civic improvements, disaster and other relief programs. Such programs, as the Community Builder Award and the Ernie R. Davis, Jr., Memorial "Care & Share Dinner", the annual Thanksgiving time meal, which is prepared and served by volunteers from Blanco Masonic Lodge #216 and Blanco Eastern Star Chapter #934 are also made possible by funds earned at the car show.

The dinner is served at the Masonic Lodge, located at 11th and Main Street in Blanco Texas. The "Care & Share Dinner" meals are also delivered to those seniors and physically challenged person who cannot make it to the lodge to participate in the dinner.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 20:33:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116197/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116197/
<![CDATA[Stars-in-the-Park Hosts Semi Annual Event]]>

Jack Petersen (left) and Ryan Behrends, both from the Hill Country Astronomers, adjust telescopes for viewing the stars, planets, and galaxies in Blanco's night sky.

On a beautiful, clear evening with a perfect crescent moon, over 40 people enjoyed the semi-annual "Stars-in-the-Park" event at Blanco State Park last Friday night.

The next event will be held in early fall. Watch for it!

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Fri, 09 May 2014 20:12:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116193/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116193/
<![CDATA[First Baptist Hosts Family Reading Fair]]>
From Mary Park

Last Sunday afternoon, May 4, First Baptist Church hosted a Family Reading Fair for students who attend their Community English Classes. The church wanted to bless these students and their families with beginning home libraries.

Cinco De Mayo decorations set the tone for this festive event. Each family was given a bookcase and books to start their libraries. Children enjoyed face painting, blowing bubbles, and hearing stories in the reading center. Everyone enjoyed browsing the book tables, visiting, and snacking from the beautifully displayed finger foods.

Over the past five months church members have been donating books and funds for this project. They were also involved in making the bookcases, adding their own personal touch to each one. Many thanks must be given to Literacy ConneXus, an organization in Fort Worth that gave us some idea guidelines and provided sturdy book bags and many of the books.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 19:56:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116187/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116187/
<![CDATA[Blanco Cowboy Church Holds Youth Play Day]]>
From Arnella Calhoun

On Sunday, May 4th, the Blanco Cowboy Church held the first of three Buckle Series Youth Play Days at the Church arena following worship services and a covered dish lunch. Twenty-six youth participated, earning their awards and earning points for the buckles which will be awarded to high point youth at the third and final play day event. The next play day will be held on Sunday, May 18 and the final play day will be Sunday, June 7th.

Many thanks go to the adult leadership and to all the willing hands who helped make the play day successful.

The following youth are congratulated for their excellent sportsmanship as they "RODE FOR JESUS", from the following listing of the PeeWee lead-line; PeeWee independent; Sub-Junior; Junior; and Senior:

Chase Fortune, Riley Rust, Josie White, Amaya Avants, Jenna White, Kendall Kramer, Court Krause, Antonia McNeill Stephen Arnold, Shanon O'Neill, Emma Watson, Crystal McKee, Shane Rust, Daniel Arnold, Emily Boylan, Dawson Cox, Kade Kneese, Brandon Phipps, Madison Kneese, Rachel McGill,

Rachel Arnold, Allison King, Chane Klopper and Caleb McCarthy.

Matthew 18:5...."And whoever receives and accepts and welcomes one little child like this for My sake and in My Name receives and accepts and welcomes Me."

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Fri, 09 May 2014 19:55:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116186/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116186/
<![CDATA[Blanco FFA Annual Rabies Clinic: Wednesday, May 14th 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm Blanco High School Agricultural Science Building]]>

Dog Vaccines

Rabies Vaccine: $10.00

DHPP Vaccine: $20.00

Total Cost: $30.00

Cat Vaccines

Rabies Vaccine: $10.00

FVRCP/LEUK: $20.00

Total Cost: $30.00

If you choose to have the RATTLESNAKE VACCINE the cost is $25.00.

If this is your animal’s first snake vaccine, your animal must have a booster in 30 days at the Blanco Veterinary Clinic. Please call the clinic at 830-833-5140 to make an appointment for your animal’s snake vaccine booster.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 19:14:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116182/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116182/
<![CDATA[An Interview with Eric Harrison, Blanco Landscape Artist: The Importance of Place]]>
By Jim Pounds

I'm speaking with Eric Harrison, artist, who lives outside Blanco, Texas. He currently has a show hung in The Redbud Cafe, on the square in Blanco.

Jim Pounds: Eric, welcome. I want to just dive in with your art and your process. Your father is also a successful artist. Did he encourage you to paint?

Eric Harrison: Yes, he did. He provided the best type of encouragement - to encourage by example. He is primarily a self-taught artist but learned a lot from his grandmother who also painted Texas landscapes.

JP: Who else has influenced you?

EH: I see myself painting in the tradition of Texas art that goes back to the founding of the Republic of Texas. Hermann Lungkwitz, brought landscape painting from Germany to the Republic. I've also been influenced by Porfirio Salinas, Robert and Julian Onderdonk, Robert Wood, Dawson Watson, and my dad, Robert Harrison all of whom painted the Hill Country with a deep sense of connection with the land.

JP: I don't think you could produce the art you do without being so immersed in the place of your work. You told me that you look out of your studio window every day and see the subject matter you paint.

EH: Living in the Hill Country allows me to know the landscape I paint, which lends an authenticity to my work I don't think I could claim without the day to day immersion.

JP: Tell me a little about your process. How do you work?

EH: I'll see something that captures my attention. I can make a sketch, take a photograph, or simply observe long enough to make an impression in my mind. Then I'll take that sketch, photograph, or memory back to the studio, and work it up to a painting.

JP: You work in a home studio. Do you paint every day?

EH: Every day. Since my art is an extension of my everyday life and its source comes from my every day experiences, I am working all the time.

JP: I've noticed an amazing transformation in your painting in the three years since you've been out in Blanco County. You seem to be growing in many directions, Eric. What are you currently exploring in your landscapes? What's going on?

EH: I’m interested in making a reconnection to the land. Most people today live in cities and don’t experience being in daily contact with the natural world. That is a departure in our way of life that is somewhat experimental given that for the majority of our history we were very much connected to the land. Painting, for me, is a way of remembering and revering the land I am familiar with.

JP: Eric, I've seen that you do some figurative paintings and some of your more abstract work, but it seems that those other interests have taken a backseat while you've worked hard to get your landscape painting acknowledged. Do you have plans to paint in other styles and subject matter going forward?

EH: Yes absolutely. I work in many styles, but my galleries and collectors probably only know of a few sides of my repertoire. I'm looking to expand that knowledge of what I paint and show these different aspects of my work to the public. I'm definitely attracted to the way the Impressionist painters were able to use light and atmosphere in their landscapes and increasingly interested in how Post-Impressionist painters like Cezanne and Gauguin used color and abstraction to charge their paintings with more overtly emotional and spiritual overtones. I’m looking forward to seeing how these influences play out in my new work.

JP: You have a show currently hung in the Redbud Cafe on the square in Blanco. Running through when?

EH: Yes, I’m honored to be showing my work in my new hometown. My wife and I and our two boys moved out here from San Antonio about three years ago. Kim and I were married in 1995 at her parents place just west of Blanco. We always wanted to make a home here and are thankful we could finally do it. The Redbud Cafe was the place we began meeting new friends and making new memories so I couldn’t be happier with having my art show there. The show and sale began on the Spring Equinox and it runs through the month of June.

JP: Where else is your work offered right now?

EH: I currently have work for sale in Boerne at Smilovici's Galleria and in San Antonio at Charles Morin's Vintage Texas Art Gallery.

JP: Do your boys paint? Are you starting a family dynasty like the Wyeths? Let's see...your grandmother, your father, then you...

EH: Ha. I would love to see that. But I think I'll take the same path my dad did with me, in that I'll encourage them to pursue whatever their interests may be. There have been many famous second and third generation artists who came to their skill through great hardships under a demanding artist parent -- Picasso and Andrew Wyeth are two examples. But that success came at great emotional expense to the children and I think there is another way that sense of mastery can be achieved.

My oldest son, Noah, loves to draw. He's a very good illustrator. So, perhaps, we may see a Wyeth type of family tradition emerging here. Ethan, on the other hand, draws too, but he prefers to go out and find the bones, the nuts and berries, animals and birds. He's much more the naturalist like a woodsman or biologist.

JP: Eric, thank you for this interview. You've provided a lot of food for thought. I hope your show at The Redbud will be a huge success. I think it will be.

EH: Well thank you for being a friend and also a patron of the arts.

Eric Harrison may be contacted through his website: www.hillcountrypainter.com

Jim Pounds is a writer and architectural designer who lives in Austin and Blanco. You can visit him at www.CasaDesignCo.com or japounds.blogspot.com

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:59:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116180/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116180/
<![CDATA[Blanco Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Don Reilly, Investment Adviser]]>

As a registered agent with New England Financial; a MetLife company, Don specializes in helping folks with all of their retirement, financial and insurance (including Home, Auto, Life and Long Term Care) needs. Serving residents of Blanco County and the outlying Hill Country area, Don brings the reputation and strength of one of the largest insurance companies in the world, MetLife, to you. Making decisions on your financial future can be overwhelming, Don can guide you through these tough decisions with simple solutions and peace of mind.

Don enjoys spending time with his own family as well as playing music. He can be seen regularly at the Redbud Café, on the square, singing the smooth, acoustic tunes of the 60’s and 70’s.

To speak with Don Reilly and to hear more about MetLife, he can be reached at 210-473-9535.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:53:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116175/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116175/
<![CDATA[Meet Kristi Walker, Blanco’s City Secretary]]>
By Merannda Button

Kristi Walker was sworn in as Blanco’s new City Secretary on April 8, 2014. She follows in the footsteps of 20 plus year veteran, Bobbie Mowery, and she understands those are some big shoes to fill.

“There’s a big learning curve.” said Walker. With an election coming up May 10, Walker told us she hasn’t had much experience with the political aspect of the job, but the City has contracted with Mowery to come in and train Walker on that and other aspects. Walker does have over 20 years administrative and bookkeeping experience. “I love working with people. I have strong reporting and analyzing skills.” Walker says she is also looking into getting a City Secretary Certification, attending election school, Small City classes, and has joined a City Secretary Group.

“Everybody [at the city] has been great and helpful… welcoming me in.” said Walker.

Walker moved to Austin in 2012, after living in Florida for 20 years. Her husband Joe’s family lives in Johnson City. She worked as Operations Coordinator for Sorenson Communications where part of her job description included many administrative duties as well as scheduling and reporting. They later moved closer to the family, but when the commute began to interfere with her family’s schedule, Kristi started to look for a new job.

“We have a 2 year old boy, Jackson, and a 4 year old girl, Madalyn. I would have to leave [for work in Austin], sometimes before my son would get up from bed. My daughter kept asking me, ‘Can you take me to school?’ It was hard, I wanted to be closer for them.”

Now that she has found a job closer to home, Walker and her family are looking for a house within Blanco County to settle permanent roots. “We’re here to stay.” said Walker.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:51:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116174/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116174/
<![CDATA[Are You Tougher Than a Boy Scout?]]>
By Niki Lockwood

Did you see all of the canoes on the Blanco River this past Saturday? Things were really skimming along! There were Boy Scouts everywhere. Blanco Boy Scouts Troop 497 is reviving the Canoe Races that started in 1970 and were held until the early 1980s. The intent is to have this as a yearly event.

There were Troops entered in the Races from San Marcos, Fredericksburg, Lockhart, Hutto, and, of course, Blanco. Most of the Troops had three teams signed up. Each team consisted of three Scouts whose combined age could not exceed forty four. Each boy had to be a registered Scout in the Troop for whom he was racing.

Larry Kuebel carted the canoes up the river to the starting line and started the races. Joe Lockwood, helped by Judge Don Barnett, timed each of the canoe teams as they crossed the finish line in the State Park. Volunteers Jim Heard and David Crawford officiated portage around Water’s Dam, and parents and scout leaders officiated portage around City Dam below Klepac Greenhouses. Dean Woodley represented BSA Capitol Area Council and Morgan Baxter, the BSA Hill Country District.

Jimmy Klepac offered a beautiful campsite on the bank of the Blanco River under giant pecan trees; without this camp area, the races could not have been held. Perry Kuebel offered her talents to draw up a design that was used for the t-shirts. It was a sight to see from the bridge with all the tents set up. The Scouts camped out Friday night and on Saturday morning the races began at 9am. There were 36 Scouts participating in the races and with leaders and spectators the crowd reached nearly a hundred.

Greg and Roberta Baker provided the prizes for the races. First place prize was a canoe and paddles. Second and third place prizes were camp cook stoves. Hutto Troop 12 took home the First Prize Canoe. Coming in Second and Third were Lockhart Troop 215 and San Marcos Troop 18. They each received a camp cook stove. Each scout from the top three teams also received a medal.

The Races began above Water’s Dam and the Scouts had to port their canoes around Water’s Dam and Flat Rock Dam and paddle hard to the finish at the dam in the State Park. The course was approximately a mile long. Blanco Scouts used the aluminum canoe that won the 1973 race for Mark Kuebel, Will Weber, and Mickey Lear.

There were only a few minor incidents such as a canoe being swamped and a strong head wind impeding progress. There were a few bumps, bruises and scrapes but nothing that could dampen the spirit of these Scouts. See you next year!

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:48:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116173/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116173/
<![CDATA[Property Owners Sent Appraisal Letters for the 2014 Tax Year]]>

State Law requires county appraisal districts to notify property owners about changes in their property’s value. On May 2, 2014, the Blanco County Appraisal District mailed 10,944 property owners letters showing their 2014 proposed appraised values.

Hollis Boatright, Chief Appraiser for Blanco County, reminds property owners that the letter of appraised value is not a tax bill, so please do not pay at this time.

Boatright emphasized the importance of this letter and the key information it contains. “A property owner has the right to appeal to the Blanco County Appraisal Review Board on any disagreement with the property’s value, exemptions, ownership and other areas,” she said.

The Appraisal Review Board, commonly referred to as the “ARB”, is an independent panel of citizens responsible for hearing and settling protests from property owners who disagree with some action by the appraisal district. The notice includes instructions on how and when to file a protest and a protest form. Please visit www.blancocad.com for additional information.

What should a property owner review? “Look at the proposed value for 2014,” Boatright said. “The letter states the land’s value and any improvement value for the property for the current year.” An improvement is a building, structure, fence or any type of fixture to the land.

The appraisal letter also includes current year information on exemptions granted on the property and last year’s value.

Homeowners that qualify for property tax homestead exemptions have a limitation on their homes’ appraised value, beginning with the second year that they qualify their home for homestead exemption. The appraisal district may not increase their home value by more than 10 percent for each year since the last reappraisal year unless something new was added to the tax roll or if the appraisal district discovered structures that were not taxed in a prior year.

Letters to property owners whose values increased will also include “estimated taxes”. These estimated taxes are based on the new taxable value and last years tax rates. Taxing units will set final 2014 tax rates in September. Please remember that the final amounts may vary from these “estimated” amounts.

Boatright asks property owners to check the legal description and their mailing address to be sure it is correct. “If your notice has an old address, please let us know. The post office only forwards mail for a short time and the tax bills will go out in October,” Boatright added.

A property owner is responsible for informing the appraisal district of the correct mailing address. A property owner is liable for additional penalties and interest on a tax bill that is not paid on time.

In summary, please check your name, address and legal description and that all exemptions you qualify for were granted. If you disagree with the proposed value on your land or your buildings, or if you feel an exemption was denied, you may file a written protest by the June 2, 2014 deadline.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:47:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116170/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116170/
<![CDATA[Twin Sisters Hall Looks to Foster in New Era]]>
By Steve Dean

Twin Sisters Dance Hall is perhaps the oldest still existing and functioning dance hall in Texas. Despite the well-known and long standing claim to that title made by Gruene Hall in New Braunfels, which dates from 1878, there is evidence that Twin Sisters is in fact eight years older.

Twin Sisters is located about seven miles south of Blanco, at 6720 State Hwy. 281. The hall takes its name from a nearby pair of hills, the "Twin Sisters," which are visible for many miles around. By the end of the 1850s, a small group of initial homesteads near this site had become the center of German settlement in the area. One of the enterprising settlers, Max Krueger, constructed the community's gristmill, cotton gin, and one of its stores, as well as this hall and an accompanying bowling alley, which was lost to fire in 1967. Local resident Johon Haas, in his 2007 web article, "My Town: Twin Sisters," asserts that the hall was built and opened in 1869-70, as his great grandfather was one of the locals who helped raise the structure. During this early period, the building served as a dance hall and community center, and, according to Haas, the hall opened to the public in January, 1870. Since that time, Twin Sisters Dance Hall has functioned continuously as a community center for dances, weddings, family functions, fundraisers, and other events. The hall has continued to host a first Saturday night dance for generations.

Twin Sisters and its legacy are crucial to the history of Texas music and culture. It is common knowledge that, without the early dance halls, the rich tradition of Texas music as we know it today would not exist. These halls nurtured the earliest forms of Texas music and helped propel it to the international stature it enjoys today. The long list of performers who have appeared at Twin Sisters reads like a who's who of Texas music, including figures such as “Pappy" Selph, Cliff Bruner, Adolph Hofner, Caesare Masse, and even a young George Strait, who later became one of the highest selling artist in Country Music history.

Currently the hall is owned by Twin Sisters Dance Hall Club, Inc., a non-profit that oversees the building's maintenance and operation. The Club has recently embarked on a mission of improving not only the hall's physical upkeep, but also its profile as an entertainment venue, with a long-term plan to present more prominent regional and national acts. The Club has likewise entered into negotiations with Texas Dance Hall Preservation (texasdancehall.org) to help with preservation efforts and elevate the profile of the iconic hall.

Texas Dance Hall Preservation (TDHP) has assisted many historic halls in this endeavor, including Sengelmann Hall, Anhalt Hall, Schroeder Hall, and many others. The organization's mission is to help preserve and promote these halls, and wherever possible to help them develop viable status as contemporary music venues. TDHP aims to promote not only financial success for these halls, but physical improvement, renewed community pride, and tourism possibilities. The excellence reflected in high-profile venues such as Gruene and Luckenbach Halls is the result of a great deal of work and planning over time, and requires a thorough understanding of each hall's potential.

The first of many planned shows at Twin Sisters will feature the award-winning Amber Digby & Midnight Flyer (amberdigby.com). Digby has earned high praise from country legend Vince Gill and more recently John Morthland, who wrote: “if there’s a more promising hard-country singer on the horizon than Amber Digby, I’ve been kept in the dark." She has appeared at the Grand Ole Opry and recorded with multi-platinum-selling and Texas favorite Mark Chesnutt. Digby is considered by many as "The Texas Dance Hall Queen" and has emerged as a contemporary favorite with Texas radio and dance hall owners. Future shows will also include appearances by Two Tons of Steel, who pack Gruene Hall on most Tuesdays ("Two Ton Tuesdays"), and Mike and the Moonpies, one of Austin's hottest young acts.

Twin Sisters also continues its commitment to local up-and-comers such as the very popular Cameran Nelson, who continues to draw enthusiastic audiences of all ages. The hall has also begun a monthly Zydeco Second Sunday dance (1-5pm) with Curt's Bar B Q, which continue from this spring through late fall. This recurring show features regional favorites Zydeco Blanco, who have an active touring schedule throughout the state.

All of these efforts will hopefully foster a new era of pride and financial stability for one of the Lone Star state's most revered–and oldest–dance halls. What better way to spend a Saturday night or Sunday afternoon than enjoying one of Texas' oldest traditions - dancing, visiting with friends, eating Bar B Q , and experiencing the Texas Living History.

Visit www.twinsistershall.com for a full performance list.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:44:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116169/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116169/
<![CDATA[Know Your Blanco City Council Candidates]]> By Merannda Button

Early Voting for three City Council seats is now open at Blanco City Hall during their regular business hours. Election Day is May 10, and will be held in the Byars Building on the Square from 7 am to 7pm. You must have a valid photo ID in order to vote.

Here is a list of the acceptable forms of photo ID: Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS, Texas personal identification card issued by DPS, Texas concealed handgun license issued by DPS, United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph, United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph, or a United States passport.

Blanco City Council Election uses a multi-member plurality voting system. “The plurality voting system is a single-winner voting system often used to elect executive officers or to elect members of a legislative assembly which is based on single-member constituencies. This voting method is also used in multi-member constituencies in what is referred to as an exhaustive counting system where one member is elected at a time and the process repeated until the number of vacancies is filled.” - www.princeton.edu

Blanco County News gave each candidate the opportunity to answer a few questions on their views and reasons for running. Answers are listed in order received.

Jim Raby

What is Blanco's largest need/weakness, and how would you see it fulfilled/fixed?

I believe the biggest weakness our city has at this point is leadership. I hope that my knowledge and work ethic can help to bring this to our city council. Six years of service in the United States Marine Corps and 15 years of owning successful business’s has prepared me for the task at hand.

What strength would you see the City of Blanco utilize better/differently?

I would like to see the City of Blanco use of their Public Works department more wisely. My main concern as it sits today is our water supply and the lines that deliver it to our residents.

Why are you the best candidate to sit on Blanco's City Council?

I feel that I am the best candidate because I genuinely care about the City of Blanco and how it grows. I want to see it grow but I want to see it grow in the right way without losing who we are. I want all citizens to be treated fairly and equally without any personal agendas affecting them and I will work hard to make sure this happens.

Martin Sauceda

What is Blanco's largest need/weakness, and how would you see it fulfilled/fixed?

I think our biggest need is to make sure our water and sewer plants can adequately handle our current requirements and have the capacity for future growth. There are several things in the works that will ensure we will be positioned to handle the load for several years.

What strength would you see the City of Blanco utilize better/differently?

I think the fact that we are less than an hour away from two major cities, is a strength that could utilized better. The success of several of the events hosted in Blanco shows that we are a great destination to visit. We need to continue to support these events and help find other ways to get people to stop and visit Blanco as they are traveling through.

Why are you the best candidate to sit on Blanco's City Council?

I believe I work well with the Mayor and the rest of City Council. I always try to get input from members of the community when decisions need to be made. We have made many improvements to the city since I’ve been on Council, including the new Police Department building and the renovations to City Hall. I hope we will continue to work together to make more improvements to the city and tackle any new issues that may come our way.

Al Turner

There are many problems facing our city right now. In my opinion the greatest is the sewer plant and the need to bring it up to date and meet the numerous requirements the State has placed upon the City. I don't have all the answers. I may not be the best candidate for the job but, I am willing to give it my best.

Bobby McClung

What is Blanco's largest need/weakness, and how would you see it fulfilled/fixed?

The city is facing the need for upgrades to its water and waste water infrastructure. These issues have been on the table for some time and have been discussed at length. I am encouraged that over the last three years the Council has taken steps to educate themselves as to the operation of these systems and what options may present themselves, but it is now time to determine a firm path forward and proceed with adequate improvements.

These improvements cannot happen overnight and will take a variety of steps over several years. It is important to finalize a plan and move forward now so we can meet the needs of a growing Blanco five or more years down the road.

What strength would you see the City of Blanco utilize better/differently?

Blanco has an historic Texas town square that attracts folks to Blanco for sightseeing and special events. What is often less obvious is the value that the square plays in attracting new businesses and new residents to our community. The intrinsic benefits of a vital and energized town square supporting commerce and family activity in Downtown Blanco cannot be overstated.

There has been a great deal of interest and energy expended by our citizens to improve the streets and walkways around the square through initiatives such as the Visionaries in Preservation and most recently the work done by the City sanctioned Streetscape Committee. The City could do a better job of embracing these efforts and in keeping revitalization on the square and along Main Street a higher priority.

Why are you the best candidate to sit on Blanco's City Council?

Having been involved in local Government and the issues confronting the Blanco community since 1994 makes me a well qualified candidate to serve on the City Council. However, Blanco has been blessed by having many qualified and competent citizens interested in supporting our community. The other candidates on the upcoming ballot are also each uniquely qualified to serve Blanco and deserve your support.

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Fri, 09 May 2014 18:38:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116167/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116167/
<![CDATA[Blanco County Aggie Moms Host Garage/Bake Sale for Scholarships]]> By Tricia Hartmann

Blanco County Aggie Moms will host their annual Garage Sale on Saturday, April 26th. The Sale is set for 8 am – 2 pm at First Baptist Church of Johnson City, 102 North Avenue Q, Johnson City, Texas, 78636. The sale is a large multi-family one, and items include appliances (including large and small TVs), furniture (including but not limited to couches, curio cabinets, bookshelves, bar stools), home décor, accessories, clothing and shoes, jewelry, kids’ items, athletic equipment, bedding, kitchenware, baby items, health aids, and much, much more! And don’t forget…you will also have an opportunity to buy delicious baked goods. These are baked with Aggie Mom love.

Blanco County Moms was incorporated in 2006 and includes Aggie Moms from Johnson City and Blanco. The group is a nonprofit organization and all funds go directly to scholarships for incoming TAMU freshmen. The Blanco County Aggie Moms hold regular meetings and welcome new Aggies and their families each year with an annual summer picnic. Blanco County Aggie Moms also distribute goody bags to Aggies during semester finals, recognize Aggie students for graduations and birthdays, and make contributions to various Aggie-sponsored events.

Blanco County Aggie Moms work enthusiastically to raise money toward scholarships for incoming Aggie freshmen. Those funds are combined with funds from the Blanco County A&M Association of Former Students. The two groups award several scholarships each year to deserving freshmen.

The Blanco County Aggie Moms look forward to welcoming a new group of Aggies for 2014 – 2015. They are grateful for the opportunity to assist these young people. Please come out and support them on Saturday, April 26th.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 18:56:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116005/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116005/
<![CDATA[Blanco Woman’s Club News]]>
By Crystal Spybuck

Dear Friends,

I would like to say thank you to the ladies who attended our April meeting. We had a delightful program presented by Erin Rice-Oyler ‘s Blanco Ballet and Creative Dance class. The applause the girls received was elating! Thank you also to our hostesses Andree Barnes, Shirley Beck, Carolyn Boydston, Rhonda Norville, and Pat Rogers for the Easter inspired décor and spread. I know the children enjoyed the Easter egg treats you made! It was beautiful in the Old Blanco County Courthouse and a perfect staging area for the lovely spring afternoon.

Remember ladies that next month is our Annual Luncheon, which will be held at Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farms on May 14th at 12pm. The lovely and talented Sibby Barrett will be whipping up a deliciously light spread. You will receive an email with further information closer to the date. We will also be having a small fashion show, so be ready for some fun!

See you soon!

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:58:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116004/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116004/
<![CDATA[Troop #497 Eagle Project Benefits Community]]>
Kendall Hartmann (Right) and Alex Andrade (Left) carrying one of the railroad ties to be placed for positioning.
By Niki Lockwood

Have you noticed the improvements at Yett Park? There is an attractive and safe series of steps outside the restrooms by the rodeo grounds. The new steps are an Eagle Scout Project that was recently planned and executed by Life Scout Kendall Hartmann as he works towards earning his Eagle Scout Rank. The work was done during the weekend of April 12th – 13th.

Kendall found a project that would benefit the community. Kendall had many opportunities to use the leadership and planning skills that he has been developing as a Scout. There were plans to draw and to get approved and supplies to gather. The width of the landing had to be determined to fit the slope of the hill. Some of the most important planning was spent in making sure that there was enough help to finish the project. The construction of the project called for leveling and excavating the ground, cutting railroad ties, moving and positioning the railroad ties, hammering rebar into the ties, and smoothing and leveling the ground to place the railroad ties.

Kendall called on Scouts, friends, and family for help. Blanco Heating and Cooling loaned a backhoe for excavating the dirt and gravel. Chain sawing of the railroad ties was done by adults, but moving the ties into place and hammering in the spikes was accomplished by the Scouts. Kendall’s project was well executed and is an important contribution to better and safer access to the Pavillion and restroom facilities from the rodeo arena side.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:56:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116003/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116003/
<![CDATA[4th Annual Bands 4 Band Festival will Feature Local Favorites]]>

The 4th Annual Bands 4 Band Music Festival will be held this Saturday, April 26 at Yett Memorial Park from 12:00 Noon until 11 p.m. Admission to the festival is $20.00 for adults and $5.00 for students. This year, the festival will feature local favorites Zydeco Blanco, Bobby Mack, Devil’s Hollow, Allen Ray Wallace, Jim Raby Band and The Hair Farmers (featuring Blanco Panther Band alums Tucker McClung and Clifford Benson). As always, the highlight of the day will be performances by the Blanco Panther Marching Band and the Panther Drumline.

Bands 4 Band was started four years ago as a way to supplement the needs of a growing band program. The Blanco Panther Band has grown significantly over the last several years and to continue to provide the best possible support to the program, monetary contributions are very important. Proceeds from Bands 4 Band go to the Blanco Band Boosters and the funds are used to lessen fees associated with band participation for students.

This year, in consideration of the recent passing of one of the Band Program’s alumni, Forrest Jones, a portion of the proceeds from this year’s festival will go to his family to assist with expenses. Forrest was a member of the Panther Drumline and such a big part of the growth and success of the line. He will be remembered always and greatly missed. Forrest was a huge help in the first three years of the festival and this year’s festival will be a chance for Blanco to pay tribute to this fine young man that loved the Band so much.

Gates will open at 12:00 Noon and the first band will take the stage at 1:00 with the Panther Band performing at 4:00 p.m. Please visit the website: www.bands4band.com for more information and to view the performance schedule.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:54:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116002/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116002/
<![CDATA[KBB and 100 Volunteers Pick up Blanco]]> By Retta Martin

Early on Saturday morning of April 12, over 100 volunteers began preparing for the 15th annual "Don't Mess with Texas and Keep Blanco Beautiful Trash Off" and 8th annual "River Cleanup". By 9:30 am you could see young and old in bright neon yellow KBB shirts all around the city of Blanco and on the river in kyaks and canoes with black bags picking up trash. The Daisy Girl Scouts came with their special shirts that they had made just for this day. The KBB crew was busy preparing lunch at the Bindseil Park and the City employs were already on their heavy equipment moving discarded items into the 8 dumpsters that IESI provides for this cleanup day.

KBB and the City of Blanco thank the young people with BISD FFA. The Leo Club, the Blanco Boy Scouts, the Cub Scouts and Daisy Scouts for helping to Keep Blanco Beautiful by volunteering for this event. We also want to thank all of the adult volunteers who have worked with us every event year for so many years and our new volunteers.

We want to thank Lowe's for their donation of the food to serve our volunteers who come in hungry after all that work. Without our sponsor, patron and business members we would not be able to accomplish what we have.

Every time I drive into or around Blanco I am amazed at how clean it is compared to 15 years ago. We appreciate the City Police Department for working with the citizens of Blanco 365 days a year to comply with the Nuisance Ordinance 332. Our volunteer leaders who have been with us from the beginning have also commented on the difference. Many potential home buyers 15 years ago would not buy homes here because it was so trashy and now we hear how many move here now because it is so clean.

Our Mission Statement is: To educate and engage Blanco citizens to take responsibility for improving their community environment.

"Thank You" From the Directors of KBB

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:48:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115999/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115999/
<![CDATA[KBB and 100 Volunteers Pick up Blanco]]>
By Retta Martin

Early on Saturday morning of April 12, over 100 volunteers began preparing for the 15th annual "Don't Mess with Texas and Keep Blanco Beautiful Trash Off" and 8th annual "River Cleanup". By 9:30 am you could see young and old in bright neon yellow KBB shirts all around the city of Blanco and on the river in kyaks and canoes with black bags picking up trash. The Daisy Girl Scouts came with their special shirts that they had made just for this day. The KBB crew was busy preparing lunch at the Bindseil Park and the City employs were already on their heavy equipment moving discarded items into the 8 dumpsters that IESI provides for this cleanup day.

KBB and the City of Blanco thank the young people with BISD FFA. The Leo Club, the Blanco Boy Scouts, the Cub Scouts and Daisy Scouts for helping to Keep Blanco Beautiful by volunteering for this event. We also want to thank all of the adult volunteers who have worked with us every event year for so many years and our new volunteers.

We want to thank Lowe's for their donation of the food to serve our volunteers who come in hungry after all that work. Without our sponsor, patron and business members we would not be able to accomplish what we have.

Every time I drive into or around Blanco I am amazed at how clean it is compared to 15 years ago. We appreciate the City Police Department for working with the citizens of Blanco 365 days a year to comply with the Nuisance Ordinance 332. Our volunteer leaders who have been with us from the beginning have also commented on the difference. Many potential home buyers 15 years ago would not buy homes here because it was so trashy and now we hear how many move here now because it is so clean.

Our Mission Statement is: To educate and engage Blanco citizens to take responsibility for improving their community environment.

"Thank You" From the Directors of KBB

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:48:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/116000/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/116000/
<![CDATA[News from the Blanco Library]]> By Crystal Spybuck

Our Photo Contest for the 2015 calendar is starting now and the winner gets a FREE Kindle! Submit your pictures of what you think make Blanco unique or a moment in time that you have captured in our wonderful Hill County City or surrounding areas.

Contest Rules:

-This contest is for Blanco County Residents ONLY

-Photos need to be at least 12” x 14” at a resolution of 300 dpi

-Photos must be your own pictures

-Photos need to be full color, no black and white or sepia

-Professional and amateur photographers are welcome

-No photos will be accepted that have won other contests

-If you won our photo contest in the past, you cannot win again, but we will accept your submissions

-There is a limit of 3 photo submissions per person

-A Media Release form must be submitted along with your photo(s)

Visit our website to download a media release form and submit your entries! Hurry because the contest ends July 7th!

Please join us May 8th 12-1pm for our open house tour the new Blanco County Archives website. This webpage was created through the Texas Treasures grant in collaboration between our library and Johnson City Library. Please feel free to browse: http://blanco.advantage-preservation.com/.

As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: Behemoth by Scott Westerfeld, The Chase by Janet Evanovich, Labor Day by Joyce Maynard, Inquebrantable/Unbreakable by Jenni Rivera, Los 5 lenguajes del amor by Gary Chapman, Por el placer de vivir by Cesar Lozano, and Winners by Danielle Steel.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:40:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115993/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115993/
<![CDATA[Commissioners Accept Replat of Lots 55A and 55B Landon’s Crossing]]> By Tricia Hartmann

Blanco County Commissioners Court conducted a Special meeting of the Commissioners Court on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners Courtroom of the Blanco County Courthouse located in Johnson City, Texas. All four County Commissioners and Blanco County Judge Bill Guthrie attended the Special meeting.

Judge Guthrie called the Special meeting to order and the Commissioners Court recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Blanco County Clerk Karen Newman read the minutes of the Regular meeting held on April 8th, 2014. Blanco County Commissioner Paul Granberg made a motion to approve the minutes as read and County Commissioner James Sultemeier seconded the motion. No discussion followed, and the minutes of the April 8th Regular meeting were approved as read.

The Blanco County Commissioners Court was asked to consider acceptance of Rocky River Road and River Oaks Road in Rocky River Subdivision for County maintenance. Blanco County Commissioner Granberg reported there were issues with whether property owners had to sign an easement…there was some confusion if property owners signed. According to County Commissioner Granberg, “this means we will pass and revisit this action later.”

The Blanco County Commissioners Court considered replat of Lots 55A and 55B in Landon’s Crossing Subdivision. Kathy Strickland, secretary to Blanco County Judge Guthrie told the Commissioners Court that the owners of the lots had bought the parcels of property. County Commissioner Granberg said that the land was combined into lots and replatted now. Judge Guthrie asked, “so lots 55, 56, and 57 are gone now?” Kathy Strickland answered, “yes, we have lots 55A and 55B now.” County Commissioner Granberg said, “this could not be done before because the lots were too small. [This] is the proper way so there is no issue in the future.”

Blanco County Commissioner Granberg gave a motion to approve the replat of Lots 55A and 55B in Landon’s Crossing Subdivision. County Commissioner John Wood seconded County Commissioner Granberg’s motion. Judge Guthrie noted that the survey had been done by Blanco County Surveyor Amil Baker. Judge Guthrie called for discussion and there was none; the motion carried.

Blanco County Commissioner Sultemeier made a motion to approve payment of the outstanding bills in the amount of $199, 838.74. The motion was seconded by County Commissioner Granberg. No discussion followed and the motion carried.

There was no additional business for the Commissioners Court and the Special meeting of the Commissioner Court was ended. Blanco County Commissioner Chris Liesmann gave a motion to adjourn and County Commissioner Granberg seconded.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:37:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115990/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115990/
<![CDATA[What to Bring and What Not to Bring to the Blanco County Household Waste Collection Event]]>

The Event will be held April 26th, 8:00am-3:00pm.

What to bring

Household tire collection & disposal for a fee.

Lead-acid batteries.

Rechargeable batteries.

Large household trash items: Construction debris, carpet, appliances, including refrigerators, stoves, freezers, microwaves, dishwasher, water heaters.

Scrap steel & metal.

What not to bring

Dioxins.

Containers larger than 5 gallons.

Explosives.

Medical & Pharmaceutical items.

Compressed gas cylinders (aerosols & camp stove propane).

Fluorescent light bulbs.

Industrial or commercial/business waste.

Paper, cardboard, aluminum, glass & plastic bottles #1 & #2 (These items are accepted at Blanco County Recycle Center).

Household chemicals.

Petroleum based paint, stain, varnish.

Latex paint.

Cell phones, telephones.

Computer components, parts, monitors.

Televisions.

Used motor oil.

Antifreeze.

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Fri, 25 Apr 2014 16:37:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115991/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115991/
<![CDATA[News from the Blanco Library]]> By Crystal Spybuck

We are pleased to announce the creation of a website dedicated to the historical archives of the Record Courier, Blanco County News, Blanco County Record, and more! Join us April 10th, 6-7pm for our open house and tour the website! This web page was created through the Texas Treasures grant in collaboration between our library and Johnson City Library. Please feel free to browse: http://blanco.advantage-preservation.com/. Do not worry if you miss us on April 10th, because we are having a second open house on May 8th from 12-1pm.

Also, be sure to take pictures around this beautiful spring time Blanco because our Photo Contest for the 2015 calendar is starting soon! This year we are giving away a Kindle.

As always, remember to check our website at www.blancolib.org or call us at 830-833-4280 for more information.

Recently Added Bestsellers: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, Private L.A. by James Patterson, Cockroaches by Jo Nesbo, Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki, and The Gingerbread Man by Catherine McCafferty.

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Thu, 17 Apr 2014 14:47:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115815/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115815/
<![CDATA[Extension Education Association Annual Spring Luncheon to be Held April 24]]>

Flower Pots! All sizes, shapes, colors, and details will be the theme for Door Prizes at next week’s Blanco County Extension Education Association Annual Spring Luncheon. Each individual who has his or her name drawn will be awarded the option to make their personal selection from the various door prizes that are offered.

The luncheon will be held Thursday, April 24, 2014, at the Blanco First United Methodist Church, 61 Pecan Street, Blanco, Texas. Serving will begin at 11:00 am and continue until 1:00 pm. Cost will be $9.00 per person.

Main dishes, side dishes, salads, and desserts will be offered for your menu choices. Cookbooks, containing the recipes of the food items for tasting will be available for purchase for $4.00. A record number of items and a record variety of goods will be offered in our Country Store this year—with emphasis on “homemade”. It is always fun to see just what might appear and be available at a bargain price!

Each year the Association works toward funding a county 4-H scholarship for our county youth and funding a portion of each 4-H member’s annual enrollment fee. Please attend and help us achieve this worthwhile goal. You will not be disappointed!

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Thu, 17 Apr 2014 14:45:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115812/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115812/
<![CDATA[Looking for Plants, Food, and Fun?]]> By Pat Owens, Master Gardener

We are all in for a treat. It is spring again and we are all looking for places that can provide Plants for our ongoing gardens, Food that is tasty but not our everyday fair and loads of Fun for all in the family. We may even find something we never thought of before that sparks our interest. Where do we find such a place? I do not know about all the time but I do know about one Saturday in April that will have all of that and more! Sponsored by Master Gardeners of Blanco County and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, local office 868-7671.

Plants, Food, and Fun all day Saturday April 26, 2014 from 9-3pm at Johnson City’s City Park located on Main Street (Hwy. 290) in Johnson City. The City Park is on the north side of the street and has a short walled expanse of lush green grass. Parking is available on the two-border streets and all around the Blanco County Courthouse just one block north. The City Park will overflow with lots of non-profit community groups that make up some of our area’s most enthusiastic neighbors. Come show your support to benefit these groups and our community.

Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your questions on a variety of subjects. The Plants for sale will be mostly native plants. We can help you decide what is the best plant for your garden condition and giving you new ideas for your growing garden. Our information tables with Master Gardener Specialists will introduce you to Vegetables, FireWise Landscaping, Rainwater Harvesting and more. See a wildlife drip basin in action, find out which invasive plants are harming our countryside, roadsides and waterways and how you can help stop them. Fire season seems to be happening year long with this continued drought we are experiencing. We can help you understand ways to protect your home and property.

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Thu, 17 Apr 2014 14:45:00 +0000 Community News http://www.blanconews.com/news/115811/ http://www.blanconews.com/news/115811/
<![CDATA[Pedernales SWCD Hosts 30th Annual Breakfast in Celebration of Soil Stewardship Week]]>

“Soil is an amazing substance. A complex mix of minerals, air, and water, soil also teems with countless micro-organisms, and the decaying remains of once-living things. Soil is made of life and soil makes life. To the farmer, soil is where crops grow? To the engineer, soil is a foundation upon which to build. To the ecologist, soil supports communities of living things. To the archaeologist, soil holds clues to past cultures. To the city dweller, soil nurtures grass and gardens. To the soil scientist, soil is all of these things. Soil has been called "the skin of the earth" because it is the thin outermost layer of the Earth's crust. Like our own skin, we can't live without soil.?” Source: Soil Science Society of America

The Board of Directors of Pedernales Soil and Water Conservation District are proud to continue their long-standing tradition of hosting the Annual Soil Stewardship Breakfast in honor of Soil Stewardship Week. This year’s theme, “DIG DEEPER: Mysteries in the Soil,” reminds all of us to recognize the importance of conserving even the simplest of resources.

In 1955, the National Association of Conservation Districts began a program to encourage Americans to focus on stewardship. The stewardship concept involves a personal and social responsibility, including a duty to learn about and improve natural resources for the purpose of using them wisely in order to leave a rich legacy for future generations. This tremendous responsibility lies with all of us.

The program relies on locally led soil and water conservation districts nationwide sharing and promoting stewardship and conservation activities. Districts throughout Texas provide conservation and stewardship field days, programs, workshops and additional outreach efforts throughout their communities to educate citizens about the need to care for soil, water and related renewable natural resources.

As part of their observance of Soil Stewardship Week, the Pedernales Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting the 30th Annual Soil Stewardship Breakfast on Wednesday, April 23, 2014 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Pavilion on Whittington’s Mountain. There will be food, fun, fellowship and a brief program presented by a local church leader on this year’s theme. Seating is limited, so it is requested that you bring your own lawn chairs. For directions or more information, please contact the PSWCD office at 868-7237.

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