There will be a drawing for bundle prizes, and R&R Shaved Ice will be there serving cold, sweet treats for readers.

It’s not too late to check out and read a few more books to log for points. The last day to log books and claim any prizes and/or tickets will be Friday, July 24.

Nesbitt Memorial Library is located at 529 Washington St., Columbus.

The 2026-2027 officers are Evani Nino, Lana Potter, Jacob Koy, Caden Koy, Emily Weid, Kelsey Weid and Jack Dudensieng. Dudensieng was unavailable to attend the conference.

EAGLE LAKE — The Eagle Lake City Council approved the GOGov citizen notification software during its July 14 meeting following a lengthy discussion over the program’s cost and data security.

The software allows the city to send emergency alerts, service updates, and other notifications directly to residents.

Alderman Amy Maxwell said the system was both “robust” and affordable, costing the city about $4,300 annually for approximately 800 notifications.

Mayor Anthony Johnson questioned whether the software was necessary, expressing concerns about protecting sensitive city and resident information.

“I don’t think it’s necessary,” Johnson said. “Technology grows, but I feel like it could be dangerous.”

Johnson also pointed to the city’s existing Beacon program, which residents and businesses use to monitor water usage at no cost to the city.

“We can use that money for something else,” Johnson said.

It was unknown if Beacon could be used for more than water usage information.

Following the discussion, the council unanimously approved the purchase. Johnson voiced his opposition, but under Eagle Lake’s council-manager form of government, the mayor is not a regular voting member and does not cast a vote on council business.

Quikrete expansion

Following a public hearing, the Eagle Lake City Council approved Quikrete’s request to rezone a residential property to industrial, allowing the company to expand its local operation.

City Manager Tink Jackson said the expansion will allow Quikrete to mix concrete in Eagle Lake rather than relying on its Rosenberg facility.

Alderman Billy Sosa asked how the city would benefit from the project.

Jackson said the expansion could create additional jobs, lower concrete prices locally and increase the city’s property tax revenue.

In other council action Eagle Lake resident Gil James expressed concern to the council about dilapidated buildings in the downtown district. James said issues including rodents, broken window glass and water damage from other buildings have been problematic for him at his property. Mayor Anthony Johnson apologized to James on behalf of the city.

Isley Edwards was named to the Board of Adjustments by Mayor Johnson. The board still has a vacancy to fill.

Mayor Anthony Johnson praised city employees for their work to get the pool open for the summer season.

Weimar Elementary School

Summer Almeida will be a paraprofessional.

Emily Kunschick will be a student teacher and a paraprofessional.

Stephanie Lopez will be a bilingual paraprofessional. She is a graduate of Lamar Consolidated High School.

Landie Sanders will be a reading intervention and dyslexia teacher.

Shelby Vacek will be a paraprofessional. She is a graduate of Weimar High School.

Karli Vickers will be a pre-K teacher.

Mark Vickers will be a fourth-grade science and social studies teacher. He is a graduate of North Greenville University and All Saints High School.

Weimar Junior High School

Carlton Tucker will work in the in-school suspension (ISS) and discipline alternative education placement (DAEP) programs. Tucker will also fulfill the role for Weimar High School.

Weimar High School

Melissa Garey will be a special education teacher. She is a graduate of the University of Houston and Katy High School.

Merina Horton will be a chemistry, anatomy and physiology teacher and coach.

Irene Juarez will be a secretary.

Abby McIver will be an art and theater arts teacher. She is a graduate of the University of Texas Dallas and Chaparral High School.

Vicki Reeves will be a paraprofessional. She is a graduate of Southwest Texas University (now Texas State University) and St. Paul Catholic School.

Kendra Tucker will be an integrated physics and chemistry (IPC) and biology teacher.

Conner Williams will be an independent studies math and physics teacher and coach.

50 YEARS AGO

Wednesday, July 22, 1976 The beginning of the rice harvest season was front page news. Colorado County’s anticipated $23.1 million rice crop was having problems in 1976. Issues included prices not rebounding as expected earlier, and the predictions for Colorado County rice averaged less than the 1975 rate of $9.30 per hundredweight.

Rains at the time caused some fields to be wet and cutting was postponed. That postponement would reduce yields on the second crop, and the first crops were getting a later harvest. Jack Vawter of Eagle Lake and Earl Frey of Bernardo were pictured operating a combine.

Sales tax for the City of Columbus was up 19%, and the city received $2,942 for April sales.

The sheriff’s office was given a different story about what happened the day two hitchhikers were shot near Borden by a motorist who said the hitchhikers tried to kidnap him.

75 YEARS AGO

July 26, 1951

Jim Willms brought in the first bale in the area for the second year in succession. Jim Willms of Route 2 in Columbus brought in the 481-pound bale of cotton. It was bought by the First State Bank at 42 cents per pound.

Only 1.68% of taxes in the county for 1950 were reported to be delinquent.

No new polio cases were reported in Colorado County for the week.

100 YEARS AGO

Thursday, July 29, 1926 The Central Power & Light Co. Began work on their high-tension line from Eagle Lake to Weimar, according to a statement made by local manager Joe Shaw. It is planned to supply current to Columbus, Weimar and Schulenburg over this line when completed.

Mr. Jack Schneider had a nice residence erected on his place about three miles south of here. The house is a two-story frame and has eleven rooms, The work was done by Contractor Henry Boehme.

According to the city of Weimar, the pursuit ended at approximately 3:30 p.m. July 16. Officials said the suspect was taken into custody without posing any further threat to the community.

Law enforcement officers from the Colorado County Sheriff’s Office, Austin County Sheriff’s Office and the Weimar Police Department remained at the scene following the arrest.

Authorities asked motorists to avoid the area while officers completed their investigation.

No additional information about the suspect or the circumstances surrounding the pursuit had been released as of press time.

The Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office released additional detai ls this week about the investigation that began with Hill’s July 11 arrest on charges of compelling prostitution, solicitation of prostitution and sexual assault.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Hill was released on bond July 12 after being transferred from the Lavaca County Jail to the Fayette County Jail. As part of his bond conditions, he was ordered to report for placement of a GPS ankle monitor within 72 hours.

Investigators said Hill failed to appear in Fayette County District Court on July 15, where he was scheduled to represent clients as a criminal defense attorney, and also failed to report for installation of the court-ordered GPS monitor.

Authorities said those violations, along with additional investigative information that has not been publicly released, led a magistrate to revoke Hill’s bonds and issue new arrest warrants.

A Fayette County grand jury later returned indictments on the same charges.

The warrants were adopted by the U.S. Marshals Service, which located Hill at a residence in Gonzales County on the evening of July 16.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, marshals attempted to take Hill into custody and offered him an opportunity to surrender peacefully. During the encounter, Hill suffered an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Texas Rangers are investigating the circumstances surrounding Hill’s death.

Sheriff Steven Greenwell said the investigation into the underlying criminal allegations will continue.

“This investigation did not end with Mr. Hill’s death,” Greenwell said. “Our investigators, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue every credible lead, identify any additional victims and thoroughly investigate the full extent of the alleged criminal conduct brought to our attention.”

Greenwell also said investigators are working to determine whether any other individuals knowingly participated in or facilitated the alleged criminal activity.

Authorities said anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office, Lavaca County Crime Stoppers, the Texas Rangers or the Texas Attorney General’s Office.

At approximately 1:37 a.m., deputy Smith conducted a traffic stop in the 1800 block of Highway 90 A in Eagle Lake. After further investigation, the driver, Cleve Hart, age 51, of Houston, was arrested for DWLI. The case was cleared by adult arrest.

At approximately 7:42 a.m., deputy Machac responded to the 4800 block of S IH-10 Road in reference to a disturbance. Case cleared, information only.

SUNDAY, APRIL 12

At approximately 9:09 p.m., deputy Melendez was dispatched to the 1000 block of Oak Street in reference to a possible structure/electrical fire. Information was gathered from the reporting party to complete an information report.

MONDAY, APRIL 13

At approximately 8:20 a.m., deputy Chapa was dispatched to the area of IH-10 eastbound and Hwy 71, Columbus, in reference to a theft. Upon arrival, information was gathered to generate this report. Case active.

At approximately 12:13 p.m., deputy Frey was dispatched to the 1000 block of CR 162, Rock Island, in reference to a theft. Upon further investigation, a report was taken. Case closed by report.

At approximately 1:01 p.m., deputy Chapa was dispatched to the 1000 block of Old McDonald Road, Glidden, in reference to a medical emergency. Upon arrival, enough information was gathered to generate this report. The case is active pending autopsy.

At approximately 2:08 p.m., deputy Mican met with a victim at the Sheriff’s Office lobby in regards to a possible assault. The victim wanted the incident document; the victim was placed with the Family Crisis Center. Case closed.

At approximately 2:03 p.m., deputy Frey was dispatched to the area of CR 114 east of CR 176, Garwood, in reference to a theft. Upon further investigation, a report was generated. Case closed by report.

TUESDAY, APRIL 14

At approximately 5:25 a.m., deputy Thomas was dispatched to the 1300 block of Lakeside Drive, Eagle Lake, for a verbal disturbance. Upon investigation, it was determined by deputies that a party involved in the disturbance was violating an active protection order. The subject was placed into custody and transported to the Colorado County Jail without incident.

This case was closed by arrest.

At approximately 8:30 a.m., Jail Lieutenant, Holly Smith, was made aware of an individual who violated a court order, who is currently incarcerated in Colorado County. Upon further investigation, it was determined that charges would be pursued for Violation of Protective Order - Class A Misdemeanor. The case will remain open pending charges.

At approximately 4:10 p.m., deputy Schoppe was dispatched to the Columbus Travel Center Convenience Store, located at 4800 IH-10, Alleyton, in reference to a 911 hangup. During the investigation, he was made aware of a transient that had been at the location for over 24 hours. After making contact with the subject he was found to have drug paraphernalia on his person. While attempting to place the subject in custody, he resisted a lawful arrest. An arrest was made and the report completed.

At approximately 3:00 p.m., deputy Schoppe was dispatched to the Citgo Convenience Store in reference to a disturbance. An arrest was made and the report completed.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15

At approximately 11:42 a.m., deputy Blair was dispatched to the 1000 block of Double Creek Road, Cat Spring, in reference to an animal complaint. Case inactive, unless further information develops.

Thursday, April 16 At approximately 10:15 a.m., deputy Gorman received a public service from the subject in reference to a scam. The complainant resides in the 1200 block of Alleyton Road S, Alleyton, Tx. Information was received.

At approximately 10:00 a.m., deputy Gorman was dispatched to Columbus Community Hospital for a mental health transport. The patient was transported without incident.

At approximately 12:12 p.m., deputy Blaha was dispatched to the 1000 block of FM 1693 in reference to theft. After further investigation, a report was taken.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., deputy Blair was dispatched to 4499 US Hwy 90 E (Happy Oaks), Alleyton, in reference to property damage and theft. Case cleared by complainant withdrawal/affidavit of non-prosecution.

DISCLAIMER

Arrest and court records are public information, and the press has the right to publish them under the First Amendment of the US Constitution.

It is important to note that an arrest should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The program encourages parents to read to their children from birth to five years old to teach pre-reading ski l ls l ike letter sounds, large vocabulary and foundational knowledge of the world. Registration is free, and progress is tracked by paper log or app.

Giovanni Mart inez and Wyatt Wrobliski received the Emmett and Illian Kveton Foundation Scholarship. Cullen Barrett, Cade Neumann and Parker Prenatt received CEF Trade School Scholarships.

Colby Lewis and Rylan Carruthers received the W.H. Miekow Education Foundation Scholarships, which recognizes the top two students in the graduating class for mathematics and English.

Lewis and Keller Mc-Clel land received the Dr. Luther Street Memorial Scholarship. Colten Koy and Kloee Woytek received the Don H. Harrison Memorial Trade Scholarship. Jami lah Betanzos and DeAnna Reaume received the Martin William Jr. Memorial Scholarship. Jamilah Betanzos also received the Clyde A. Werland Memorial Trade Scholarship.

Caylie Neisner received the Columbus Christian Women’s Organization Scholarship for her to continue education at Blinn College.

Held at the Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum, the annual event honored recipients of the Joseph & Victor Stanzel Memorial Scholarship, along with several additional scholarships established by local families and donors to recognize community members whose legacies continue to support future generations.

This year’s Joseph & Victor Stanzel Memorial Scholarship recipients are Jamison Bennett, Cheyenne Booker, Caleigh Brock, Reagan Dusek, Jayse Janda, Zowie Lee, Phoenix Richter-Trejo, Daysi Rico and Lance Tolbert.

Additional scholarships awarded include: Clark Scholarship – Landa Family Education Foundation: Jamison Bennett Ginger Stanzel Bosl Memorial Scholarship: Reagan Dusek Cyndy Reed Legacy Scholarship: Jamison Bennett Wanda Johnson Beaudry Stanzel Memorial Scholarship: Jailyn Guerrero, Aidan Mendez, Shalanie Olvera, Phoenix Richter- Trejo and Daysi Rico Recipients represent students from Schulenburg, Weimar and La Grange independent school districts, as well as Sacred Heart Catholic School.

Beyond recognizing academic achievement, Scholar Launch serves as an introduction to the Foundation and the community of scholars who have benefited from its support over the years.

Students toured the Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum to learn about the aviation legacy of brothers Joseph and Victor Stanzel and assembled balsa wood model airplanes, a handson activity inspired by the brothers’ entrepreneurial spirit. The evening concluded with cookies served at the Stanzel family home, offering students and their families an opportunity to connect while celebrating the beginning of a new chapter.

The event also brought together Foundation directors, committee members, donors, staff and scholarship alumni, giving the newest recipients the opportunity to network with graduates now working in a variety of professions.

Since 1991, the Joseph & Victor Stanzel Memorial Scholarship has awarded scholarships to more than 600 high school and professional students from the Schulenburg and Weimar areas, creating a network of scholars committed to education, leadership and community service.

The Stanzel Fami ly Foundation was established in 1989 by brothers Joseph and Victor Stanzel, founders of the Victor Stanzel Co., a model aircraft manufacturing company based in Schulenburg. Today, the Foundation cont inues to support educational opportunities and community health initiatives throughout the Schulenburg and Weimar areas.

The nonprofit will help voters check their registration status, provide information on voter ID cards, share a local voters guide with specific ballot details and more.

Adults can pract ice voting on a real machine with Colorado County Elections Administrator Rebecka LaCourse. Meanwhile, children can learn about civic engagement by voting for their favorite Texas animal.

The Saturday event wil l run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St., Columbus. This will be one of four Day of Action events in the area for LWV’s nationwide Unite and Rise for Voting Rights initiative for the anniversary.

The Cardinal community will have the opportunity to meet the Columbus High School coaches, the 2027 senior athletes and learn more about joining the booster club. Vendors wil l also be selling Cardinal gear for fans to show their support at games and around town.

The pep rally will be held in the old high school gym near 245 May St., Columbus. Afterwards, head on over to the cafeteria for the ice cream social.

High School Freshmen Orientation

Monday, Aug. 3 | 1–3 p.m.

| Columbus High School, 103 Cardinal Ln Prior to orientation, students must have completed online registration and submitted proof of residency.

Schedule Pickup

For seniors: Thursday, Aug. 6 from 9–11 a.m. at CHS.

For juniors: Thursday, Aug. 6 from 1–3 p.m. at CHS.

For sophomores: Friday, Aug. 7 from 9–11 a.m. at CHS.

Proof of residency is due prior to or at schedule pickup.

Senior Parking Spot Painting Party Friday, Aug. 7 | 9 a.m. | Columbus High School, 103 Cardinal Ln

Meet the Teacher: Pre-K through 5th Grade Friday, Aug. 7 | 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Columbus Elementary School, 1324 Bowie St Enter through cafeteria doors. All students must have completed online registration and bring proof of residency.

Weimar ISD

ESL Night

Monday, Aug. 3 | 4–6 p.m.

| Weimar Elementary Cafeteria, 515 W Main St Bilingual staff will be available to assist parents in completing registration paperwork.

El personal bilingüe estará disponible para ayudar a los padres a completar la documentación de inscripción.

Meet the Teacher: Pre-K through 12th Grade Monday, Aug. 10 | 4–6 p.m.

All students complete registration and bring proof of residency.

Rice CISD

High School Freshmen Fish Camp Orientation Thursday, Aug. 6 | noon – 4 p.m. | Rice High School, 1095 Raider Dr

High School Senior Sunrise Monday, Aug. 10 | 6:15 a.m. | Rice Veterans Memorial Stadium, 1094 Raider Dr

High School Family Night Monday, Aug. 10 | 5–7 p.m. | Rice High School Commons, 1095 Raider Dr

High School Senior Portrait Day

Tuesday, Sept. 8 | Rice High School, 1095 Raider Dr

Toni Conner Art Gallery Ribbon Cutting

Friday, July 24 | 4:30 p.m. | Dorsett Dye & Associates Real Estate, 518 Spring St | Columbus Toni Conner’s gallery showcases pet portraits, human portraits and colorful scenes from the places she and her wife have explored together. Her goal is to invite people to experience art, spark meaningful conversations and continue contributing to the growing local art scene in Columbus. Come talk art, weather and small-town happenings while Conner adds a sketch of you to her Wall of Fame!

Christmas in July

Saturday, July 25 | 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. | downtown Columbus From photos with Santa to seasonal drinks, shopping, food, and festive fun, this is a summer celebration you won’t want to miss! Stay tuned for more updates to come!

Santa’s Summer Vacation

Saturday, July 25 | 4– 6 p.m. | Hound Song Brewing Co., 535 Walnut St | Columbus The Columbus Historical Preservation Trust (CHPT) and the Santa Claus Museum invite you and your family to kick off the holiday season early! Enjoy tasty bites, coloring fun, vendor goodies, Santa photos and more! Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

Weimar End of Summer Reading Splashpad Party Monday, July 27 | 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Weimar Pavilion and Splashpad, 106 W Market St | Weimar The splashpad will be open, and the library will have crafts, games and prizes and will announce all of our summer reading program raffle winners!

Nesbitt Summer Reading Ending Party

Tuesday, July 28 | 10:30 a.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus The library will be drawing for the summer bundle prizes, and snow cones will be provided by R&R Shaved Ice. Admission is free, and this program is for all ages!

Colorado County Democrats

Fundraising Dinner

Saturday, Aug. 1 | 6 p.m. | Hound Song Brewing Co., 535 Walnut St | Columbus More details and ticket info to come.

Blessing of the Backpacks

Sunday, Aug. 2 | 10 a.m. | First United Methodist Church, 1229 Milam St | Columbus The new school year is approaching, and members of the congregation will provide free school supplies and written special notes of encouragement to supply students with love, faith, kindness and confidence for the year ahead. Pastor Sunshine will also pray over the students and their backpacks.

FBC Columbus Ice Cream Fellowship

Sunday, Aug. 2 | 6 p.m. | First Baptist Church Columbus, 1700 Milam St | Columbus Join the church community for an ice cream social and ministry fair in the Family Life Center. Please bring your favorite ice cream with you, ideally a half gallon per family. Toppings will be provided.

Columbus Country Market

Last Saturdays from March to November | 9 a.m. – noon | County Courthouse Square, 400 Spring St | Columbus

Eagle Lake Market on the Square Third Saturdays | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. |100 E Main St | Eagle Lake

Stop and Shop on Milam Street Saturdays | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Milam Street | Columbus Participating vendors will be offering store specials.

Weimar Farmers Market

Second Saturdays from January to November | 8 a.m. – noon | City Pavilion, 106 W Market St | Weimar

COMMUNITY SERVICES Columbus Food Pantry

Third Fridays | 8 a.m. – noon | Family Life Center, 419 Washington St | Columbus

Dementia support group

First Tuesdays | 2–3 p.m. | United Methodist Church, 200 W Prairie Ave | Eagle Lake Dementia Practitioner Tonja Moon leads the group in engaging conversations, learning effective approaches for communication and introducing activities and therapy techniques designed to promote connection and inclusivity.

Eagle Lake Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry First and fourth Mondays | 9:30– 11:30 a.m. | First Baptist Church, 527 N Lake Ave | Eagle Lake

Seniors Together

First and third Wednesdays | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | St. Paul Lutheran Church Lighthouse, 201 Veterans Drive | Columbus

United Methodist Church Mobile Food Pantry Second Mondays | 9:30–11 a.m. | United Methodist Church, 200 W Prairie Ave | Eagle Lake

HEALTH AND FITNESS Fitness is Fun

Every Wednesday | 10–11 a.m. | United Methodist Church, 200 W Prairie Ave | Eagle Lake Mindful stretching and strength exercises with as high or low impact as needed for those over 40. Takes place in the Methodist Fellowship Hall. Sponsored by Methodist Women.

Flex, Stretch & Balance for Adults Every Monday and Wednesday | 9–9:45 a.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus Stretching, breathing exercises and low impact movement.

Library in Motion

Every Wednesday | 10 a.m. | Weimar Public Library, 1 Jackson Square | Weimar Activity changes every week. Check the library website for activities at weimar.ploud.net.

Water Aerobics

Tuesdays through July | 10–11 a.m. | Weimar City Pool, 106 W Market St | Weimar Hosted by Misty Strode. This event requires registration. You will need to pay pool entry fee or have a pool membership.

EDUCATION, READING AND ARTS Family Storytime

Every Thursday | 10–10:30 a.m. | Weimar Public Library, 1 Jackson Square | Weimar Followed by Preschool Discovery Activity Time.

Free summer art camps (Ages 5-13) Monday through Friday | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Live Oak Art Center, 1024 Milam St | Columbus The Live Oak Art Center will have a new camp every week for free with limited seats available. Ages 5-9: June 8-12, June 22-26, July 6-10 and July 27-31. Ages 10-13: June 15-19, June 29 – July 3, July 13-17 and July 27-31.

Mother Goose Storytime (Ages 0-5) Every Tuesday | 10:30–11 a.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus

Nesbitt Memorial Library Book Club Second Thursdays | 10:15–11:15 a.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus January – Fortune is a Women; February – The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie; March – A Spool of Blue Thread; April – A Tree Grows in Brooklyn; May – Homeseeking; June – Wild Dark Shore; July – The Lost Bookshop; August – Making Rounds with Oscar; September – Bloodlines; October – The Red Tent; November – Night Watch

Sip and Study

Every Thursday | 4–7 p.m. | Moonside Macaron, 102 W Main St | Eagle Lake Students of all ages can gather to enjoy drinks and snacks while working on homework and receiving tutoring. Volunteer tutors needed.

Weimar Book Club

Second Mondays | 6 p.m. | Weimar Public Library, 1 Jackson Square | Weimar

YA for Adults Book Club

Monthly on select Thursdays | 5 p.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus Visit the library’s website for dates and books at www. columbustexaslibrary.net.

ENTERTAINMENT

Anime Night (Kids all ages) Every Friday | 6–8 p.m. | Moonside Macaron, 102 W Main St | Eagle Lake Kids of Eagle Lake will check out exciting anime shows, chat with friends and enjoy Japanese snacks and food.

Bingo Night at The Rez 1908 Third Fridays | 6 p.m. | The Rez 1908, 312 E Main St | Eagle Lake Play free bingo with friends for a chance to win awesome prizes. Enjoy delicious food and cold drinks available for purchase in a fun, laidback atmosphere for everyone.

Game Night (Kids all ages)

Every Saturday | 4– 8 p.m. | Moonside Macaron, 102 W Main St | Eagle Lake Kids and community members of all ages are welcome to try out various board, card games and more while engaging critical thinking and building new friendships.

Lego Club (Ages 2-6)

First and third Tuesdays | 4–5 p.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus Lego Club for ages six and up. Lego Duplo for littles ages two to five.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons Club (Ages 12-18) Second and fourth Tuesdays | 4 p.m. | Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St | Columbus Learn and play the world’s greatest tabletop role-playing game! Gain problem solving skills, socialize with friends, use your imagination. No character? No problem. For questions or information, contact Dungeon Master Cody at 979-732-3392 or gravesc@columbustexas.net.

Weimar Chess Club

Every Tuesday | 3:45–4:45 p.m. | Weimar Public Library, 1 Jackson Square | Weimar For all ages, no membership required. Lead by Scholastic Coach David McCall who teaches you how to play chess and gives you winning tips.

“Backpacks symbolize the burdens students carry on their hearts—heavy, invisible loads of academic and social pressures,” the church posted. “The new school year is approaching, and members of the congregation have written special notes of encouragement to supply students with love, faith, kindness, and confidence for the year ahead.”

Pastor Sunshine Reyes will also pray over the students and their backpacks. The church is located at 1229 Milam St. in Columbus.

New shoes will be available for school age children while supplies last. Shoes will be distributed on a first come first serve basis. Children must be present to receive the shoes. Sizes and quantities are limited. The event will be at 1503 Bowie St. in Columbus. Call 979-484-8055 for more information.

Program requirements: must be a senior citizen 60 years or older, or have a disability, must be a US military veteran or a surviving spouse of a veteran, must own home and land, must be the owner’s primary residence, must be current on property taxes, mortgages and other obligations, and must been HUD area median income requirements.

This is not an emergency repair program. The process usually takes several months to complete. Repairs available: home accessibil ity modifications, plumbing, electric, roofing, HVAC or foundation repair.

Applications are available on the Habitat for Humanity website or call 979-732-5677 for more information.

I believe God is sovereign. Indeed, He is the independent ruler of the universe, the Lord to whom I submit my life. I submit to His ultimate authority and I trust Him with all life’s situations.

That means I t rust Him in those moments that confound me or prompt a pause — especially things that appear to be mere coincidence or happenstance.

I agree with my friend Squire Rushnel l, who te rmed such th i ngs “GodWinks.”

Because God is sovereign, nothing occurs without His knowing. He’s aware of each detail.

Yes, I ponder with those who quest ion: “ What about hor r i f ic things?” or “What about grievous events?” Like Job in the Old Testament, life happens without our understanding, and God owes no one an explanation or teaching.

Life is just not that simple.

While God is all knowing and powerful, He is no puppet master dictating our every move.

We are accountable to Him, and answer for our choices and decisions.

He is so very specific. Scripture tells us He knows how many hairs are on our head, where we live, when we live and the number of our days. Certainly, He knows the pathway of our lives.

There is no such thing as a coincidence, because God uses even the smal l things. Think of the people you meet, the situations you find yourself in and the scheduling of your day.

People you encounter are your area of ministry. Situations become chal lenges of adversity or opportunities to bless others. Your schedule — especial ly the crazy changes beyond our control — are God’s way of moving us from one location and set of people to another, how He helps us clarify our priorities.

Have you been delayed by some unforeseen detai l? Perhaps that’s God’s way of saving you from some problem. There was an occasion in my life when stopping to purchase a cup of coffee saved me and my husband from a horrific accident with a huge 18-wheeler.

Only God knew what was ahead on the road that day. His timing is specific.

Ask God to provide i nsight as we wa l k through the detai ls of life. Look for His unique opportunities.

God has something part icular with your name on it.

You live because there is a unique purpose for you. You can uniquely encourage someone today. Your smi le may be what brightens their day. A kind greeting can make all the difference.

Be the coincidence in someone’s life and make that Godly di fference for them. Until next week, Anita

Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.

Columbus Police Chief Chris Mayfield said the investigation into the incident is still ongoing and has not progressed towards identifying a motive.

“When we have that big of an incident, like the report and everything, it’s a lot…just gathering all that and putting all everything together,” Mayfield said. “…There’s more completeness to it, but we are at the same spot as we were.”

Between July 3-5, 417 game wardens contacted 10,817 vessels, issued 1,466 citations and 1,974 warnings for various boating safety violations, filed 62 boating while intoxicated (BWI) charges and four driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges. Wardens also made 20 additional arrests for various other offenses.

The 62 BWI charges represent the highest number filed by Texas Game Wardens during the Fourth of July holiday weekend since 2019.

Despite responding to 25 boating incidents over the weekend, game wardens did not receive any reports of boating-related fatal ities, although numerous incidents involved serious bodily injury. There were also two open-water drownings; one at Lake Hawkins in Wood County and one at Lake Palo Pinto in Palo Pinto County along with numerous calls for boating assistance statewide.

“Thousands of Texans and visitors safely enjoyed time on the water this holiday weekend, and we’re grateful the majority of boaters made responsible decisions by wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol and watching out for each other,” said Col. Ron VanderRoest, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Law Enforcement Division director. “At the same time, the two lives lost are a sad reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike and the importance of remaining vigilant.”

In addition to boating safety enforcement, game wardens responded to numerous significant incidents, including several vessel collisions, a reported hit-and-run involving a personal watercraft, medical emergencies, arrests for possession of controlled substances, multiple suspected human trafficking cases discovered during calls for service and proactive enforcement, and the rescue of a kayaker who had been in the water for approximately three hours without a life jacket after capsizing.

Boating safety education was a priority throughout the weekend. Through TPWD’s Adopt-A-Ramp program, our invaluable volunteers made 393 contacts with boaters at Joe Pool Lake, Lake Lavon and Lake Bastrop, sharing information about boating laws, life jacket use and safe boating practices before people launched.

As part of the outreach effort, TPWD also hosted a Fill the Boat life jacket donation event at Cedar Hill State Park. The event collected 23 adult life jackets, three youth and infant life jackets and three canine life jackets. Once inspected, the donated life jackets will be distributed to area life jacket loaner stations to help make safety equipment more accessible to the public.

“Texas Game Wardens did exactly what Operation Dry Water is designed to do by identifying and removing impaired operators before someone gets hurt,” said VanderRoest. “Whi le we’re proud of the work wardens accomplished this weekend, the safest holiday weekend is one where everyone chooses to avoid alcohol and drugs on the water.”

Texas Game Wardens will continue proactive boating safety patrols, education efforts and outreach throughout the summer, encouraging everyone on the water to wear a properly fitted life jacket, designate a sober operator, monitor changing weather conditions and complete boater education.

More information about boating safety, boating laws and boater education requirements is available at https://tpwd.texas.gov/ fishboat/boat/.

Dr. Michelle Marburger, Blinn College District Vocational Nursing Program Director, has been chosen to serve on the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Healthcare Workforce Advisory Board, a statewide panel created to address healthcare workforce shortages and strengthen partnerships between healthcare providers and higher education institutions.

Marburger is one of 13 appointees to the advisory board, which was established by the 89th Texas Legislature.

“I am honored to serve on the Texas Healthcare Workforce Advisory Board and contribute to statewide efforts that strengthen and advance Texas’s healthcare workforce,” Marburger said. “I am committed to leveraging my experience in nursing education to support innovative, data-informed solutions and foster collaboration among healthcare providers, workforce partners and educational institutions.”

Marburger has been with Blinn since 1998. She became a full-time faculty member in 2002 and the Program Director in 2005. Marburger also is president of the Texas Association of Vocational Nurse Educators Board of Directors.

Marburger has extensive nursing and leadership experience across acute care, home health, long-term care and education, including service to the Brenham and La Grange areas.

Michelle Trubenstein, Dean of Health Sciences, said Marburger’s experience as a nurse educator and program leader will make her a valuable voice on the advisory board.

“Dr. Marburger wi l l bring a breadth and depth of information and perspective to this board,” Trubenstein said. “I am excited that she was selected to serve.”

TWC Executive Director Steve Pier said the new advisory board reflects the state’s commitment to developing solutions that meet local healthcare workforce needs.

“The Healthcare Workforce Advisory Board marks a significant milestone in our commitment to strengthening the Texas healthcare workforce,” he said. “Bringing together leaders from education, hospital systems and community health centers will help us provide localized, data-driven strategies to support the professionals who care for our communities.”

To address challenges facing the healthcare industry, the advisory board will develop a collaboration toolkit and resource guide. These tools are designed to facilitate local partnerships between healthcare providers, workforce boards and institutions of higher education. The partnerships will help communities more effectively identify and address healthcare workforce needs, said Pier.

Blinn’s Vocational Nursing Program consists of classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences in area healthcare facilities.

Clinical rotations are held at hospitals and other healthcare facilities throughout the area. Program graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) and the Nursing Jurisprudence Examination and are considered licensed vocational nurses after passing both exams. Over the last three years, almost 98% of program graduates have found jobs in the profession.

The appl ication for spring 2027 admission opens on Sept. 17, and the application for fall 2027 opens on March 4, 2027. For more information, visit www.blinn.edu/vocational- nursing/.

More than 270 people were rescued. Damage was widespread from rains bringing as much as 25 inches to parts of Kerr County and 10 to 15 inches in other counties.

The death toll so far is much lower than the casualties from last summer’s flooding, which ki l led more than 130 statewide, the San Antonio Express- News reported.

Officials and residents credit improved warning systems, including text alerts and flood sirens, and fewer people clustering on riverbanks, since it was not a holiday weekend — unlike the July 4, 2025, flood.

Law enforcement officials fanned out to campgrounds, hotels and recreational- vehicle parks as the floodwaters began to rise, though this time the flooding built up over a few days.

“We weren’t caught off guard by something nobody expected,” state Rep. Wes Virdell, R-Brady, said at a news conference July 17. “We had a lot of critical, key people that were in the proper locations that were very instrumental in helping us. Residents were very aware of the possibility of what’s going to happen when that river floods.”

Gov. Greg Abbott signed a major disaster declaration seeking federal assistance for rebui lding efforts in 28 affected counties.

State agencies asked to cut spending by 3% Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows announced their top four priorities for the 2028-29 budget cycle last week, including requiring state agencies to reduce base spending requests by 3%. Other priorities include addressing affordability concerns, fully funding public education, supporting teachers and advancing property-tax reform.

In a news release, Abbott said the budget guidance “protects our historic investments in public education and teachers, delivers even more property- tax relief and makes the cost of living more manageable for Texas families through strict standards of efficiency and accountability from every state agency.”

The 90th legislative session begins in January.

Mortgage delinquencies up among first-time homeowners

First-time homeowners in Texas are increasingly failing to make their mortgage payments on time, the Houston Chronicle reported. Rising homeowner insurance costs are the primary culprit, according to data from the Federal Housing Administration.

Most FHA borrowers are first-time homebuyers and typically have lower credit ratings and less money for a down payment, making them more vulnerable to rising monthly costs. Roughly 6% of FHA loans in Texas were at least 90 days past due, up from 3.7% a year earlier.

“This unfortunately positions Texas at the epicenter of the national affordability squeeze,” Scott Norman, CEO of the Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, told state lawmakers in June.

Home insurance rates have increased by an average of 80% since 2020, according to the Texas Department of Insurance. Compounding the situation, homeowners with low credit scores are paying almost $3,000 more annually for home insurance than those with high credit scores.

Late payments on conventional mortgages have remained flat, with less than 1% of borrowers seriously behind on their payments.

Howden named Texas secretary of state Gov. Greg Abbott has named Robert S. Howden to succeed Jane Nelson as Texas secretary of state, according to the Texas Standard. Nelson left office on July 17.

Howden has served as Abbott’s legislative director since September 2024. He will work as interim secretary until the legislative session begins in January, when he will need to be confirmed by the Texas Senate.

“His experience in the legislative process and extensive public service have prepared him to protect the integrity of Texas elections and represent our state with strength on the global stage,” Abbott said in announcing Howden’s appointment.

The office’s primary responsibility is overseeing elections and voter rolls. It also oversees business filings, such as limited liability corporations and other entities.

Talarico holds fundraising edge over Paxton With less than four months before the November general election, Democrat ic nominee James Talarico has vastly outraised his GOP rival Ken Paxton in the U.S. Senate race, the Chronicle reported.

The Austin-area state legislator ended June with a bank balance of $21.5 million, according to newly filed documents with the Federal Election Commission. After factoring in expenses, state Attorney General Paxton’s campaign was left with a balance of just $1.7 million.

Both candidates are heavi ly backed by super PACs. The Talarico- al igned political action committee has $21.6 million in the bank, including $10 million from L i nkedI n co- founder Reid Hoffman. The Paxton- aligned PAC, which spent heavily in his successful runoff against incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, was left with just $35,000 to start July.

Talarico hopes to break Texas Democrats’ 32-year losing streak in statewide elections. He has raised more than $68 million thus far, the most for any non-incumbent in a U.S. Senate race.

Abbott campaign paid $25K to rent elephant Gov. Greg Abbott’s reelection campaign paid $25,000 to rent Paige the elephant for the state GOP convention from an exhibitor that failed to register with Houston officials before bringing the elephant to the George R. Brown Convention Center, according to the Houston Chronicle.

A campaign finance report revealed the amount the campaign paid to East Texas Elephant Experience to parade the pachyderm at the June convention. The city’s regulatory division said it had no record the company registered as a licensed exhibitor at least 20 days before the event as required by city code.

Klayton Rutherford of PETA said the payment rewards an exotic animal entertainment industry that has come under criticism over its treatment of elephants.

“The amount of money that is involved in this industry is staggering,” Rutherford said. “The most prominent elected official in the state arranged this exhibit and it was done apparently in violation of the city’s ordinances and that’s alarming.”

The Abbott campaign declined to comment.

Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.

com.

City Manager Tink Jackson said he has been approached by multiple people interested in opening game rooms that operate 8-liner slot machines, mainly in buildings that are currently vacant.

“We have neighboring cities that have gaming available. If people are going to go play the game machines, then we need an ordinance in place here that gives the city the right to inspect and keep businesses from operating illegally,” Jackson said.

The ordinance could:

• prohibit standalone game room businesses;

• limit existing businesses to a maximum number of gaming machines (council discussed anywhere from two to five machines); • establ ish licensing and per-machine fees; • allow city inspections; and

• require surveillance cameras. “We need to do something before these businesses start coming in,” Jackson said.

Chief of Police Donald Chaney advised council to make the installation of live surveillance cameras mandatory for businesses with game machines in use. “You’ll always have that criminal element coming in,” Chief Chaney said.

The city currently has no ordinance governing gaming machines. Council’s discussion last week comes more than seven years after a 2018 multi-agency investigation resulted in illegal gambling-related arrests at three businesses in Eagle Lake and two in Garwood.

Jackson said one business in the city currently operates four or five gaming machines. Under a proposed ordinance, the city could establish licensing fees and a per-machine fee while also setting a maximum number of machines allowed at each business.

Revenue generated through licensing and machine fees would go to the city.

Alderman Billy Sosa said many Eagle Lake residents already travel to neighboring communities to play gaming machines.

“We might as well have the money here and make some profit,” Sosa said. He added that any business wanting to install gaming machines would be required to follow the city’s regulations. “We’ll do it our way, not their way, if they want the machines,” he said.

Council members indicated they favored strict regulations, including limiting the number of gaming machines allowed at existing businesses whi le discouraging dedicated game rooms from locating in Eagle Lake. No action was taken on the proposed ordinance.

Hello, everyone, and welcome back to The Huddle. This week, I’m talking about the pros and cons of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals in sports.

The main sport affected by NIL deals is college football, and many fans are torn over them.

Looking at the pros first, there are several benefits to NIL deals, especially for the players. Universities have been making thousands — and sometimes millions — of dollars from players’ athletic performances, and the athletes deserve a piece of the pie.

It also provides athletes with some security in their careers. Let’s say (God forbid) a player suffers a career-ending injury. Everything they worked their entire life for vanishes in one play, and now they don’t even have a dime to show for something they worked so hard to achieve.

But let’s flip the coin and look at the cons of these NIL deals.

The biggest con is that it’s all a money game now. Whoever can pay the most money lands the best players, similar to free agency in the NFL.

Some of the top high school players still take the old-fashioned route, setting their sights on a school and trying to earn a scholarship. But others are only chasing the money, which creates another problem.

Let’s say a five-star recruit chooses a school that offers a lucrative NIL deal. The player arrives on campus, but the school soon realizes he isn’t as good as expected.

The school has invested thousands of dollars in a player who didn’t pan out and may feel obligated to play him because of that investment. It’s equally unfair to the athlete, who may feel pressure to live up to the dollar amount attached to his name instead of simply playing the game he loves and developing at a steady pace.

Lastly, and probably most importantly, NIL deals take away from college football. They take away one of the biggest draws of sports: competition on the field.

The richest schools will often get the best players. While there is still plenty of competition in college football, and the games remain exciting to watch, the competition is slowly moving away from the field and into the checkbooks.