Blanco resident Kendall Myers and her “first kill” buck. The buck was killed on December 26, 2012, on the Crum Ranch in Cherokee and was officially gross scored at 162 2/8.

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This bobcat was shot by Kelly Eiland at his deer lease off of Crabapple Road on Sunday.

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Toni with her first deer, harvested on the Daniels Ranch with her dad, Pat Daniels, on January 5, 2013.

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Happy New Year! New beginnings are special opportunities. If community service is one of your New Year's resolutions, there are volunteer opportunities right now in your Blanco Historic Cemetery Association. Give us a call!

Section 3D: C. C. Pruitt, Veteran (no dates on old stone but our records say 1821-1883); Charles Culpepper (1920-2004, cemetery marker only); E. A. Watts, Veteran, CO. H, Texas, HV ARTY, CSA (Feb. 4, 1843-Dec. 22, 1933); William Ardis Bryant (Nov. 10, 1935-Jan. 18, 1983); Pamela Ann Barbee Norris (June 15, 1957-March 6, 1981). On this row there is an elaborate metal Confederate States of America cross with the words "Deo Vindice" and the dates 1861-1865. It does not seem to be associated with a marked grave but could be a marker on an unknown.

B. Tenison (a name carved into a stone slab lying on the ground with no dates. The plot map indicates that this is the first grave in the Blanco Cemetery); Malinda Watts (Nov. 5, 1805-Mar. 24, 1872); Alexander Watts (July 12, 1809-Dec. 22, 1978); Lucretia McCoy (Nov. 20, 1841-Feb. 20, 1891); James W. Dilworth, Veteran (Jan. 1, 1928-May 23, 1992).

E. O. Turner, "Born in Blanco Co., TX" (Oct. 8, 1870-Sept. 17, 1875); Nancy J. Watts (June 17, 1835-Sept. 22, 1881); Infant Comparet, son of Edwin and Mildred Comparet (Feb. 21, 1911); Edwin Martin Comparet (June 12, 1879-Nov. 29, 1931); Mildred Brigham Comparet (Oct. 31, 1879-Sept. 20, 1959).

"Lupe" Guadalupe A. Padilla (Sept. 19, 1967-Oct. 17, 1976).

Section 2D: Joseph T. Hearne, Veteran (July 12, 1936-Dec. 13, 1993); Henrietta Comparet, daughter of J. M. Comparet (Oct. 17, 1886-Aug. 5, 1888); Wilhelmina Comparet (Feb. 17, 1852-Dec. 12, 1917); J.M. Comparet (Aug. 6, 1835-Feb. 19, 1908); Henry Walter Comparet (Jan. 12, 1877-Feb. 3, 1879).

Francis C. Harrison (Aug. 16, 1856-April 26, 1880); Luise Zunker (Dec. 3, 1885-July 29, 1901); T. Roscoe Edwards, Jr. (Jan. 25, 1876-Nov. 16, 1904).

Allie A. Davis, wife of C.C. Davis (Nov. 26, 1855-Mar. 6, 1879); James Edward Tuffly (Oct. 9, 1914-Oct. 24, 1996); Lessie N. Tuffly (Mar. 11, 1912-Jan. 28, 2006); Inez L. Stanford (1878-1961); Janice. R. Stanford (June 26, 1945-May 17, 1955); Georgia June Stanford (June 11, 1919-Mar. 2, 2003); Thomas R. Edwards (1851-1940); Annie E. Edwards (1947-1932); Annie Edwards (Jan. 17, 1874-June 6, 1956). This grave may be in Section 2C.

Section 1D: N.J. Rust, wife of J.D. Rust (Sept. 18, 1849-May 18, 1906); Joe D. Rust (1888-1954); Sallie H. Rust (1891-1987); John V. Edwards (1887-1960); Athol S. Edwards (1885-1959). Jettie Edwards Felps (1889-1964).

There are 20 plus unknown graves that are unmarked, marked with a rock, or have unreadable funeral markers.

If you have stories or family connections that you would like to place in a public file, please send them to: Gail McClellan, Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 473, Blanco, TX 78606 or .

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Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service in Blanco County will sponsor a Private Applicator License training and testing program on Tuesday January 29th in Johnson City. The program will be held at the Hoppe Room, Courthouse Annex, beginning at 8:00am. The training portion will conclude at 12:00 noon. Lunch will be on your own, and we will resume at 1:00pm with the testing. The test usually takes about an hour to complete.

All farm and ranch operators who need a Private Applicators License to purchase “restricted use or state limited use” pesticides are invited to attend this program.

Please RSVP the Extension office (830) 868-7167 by Friday the 25th at 5:00pm. The cost is $60.00 to cover the materials and handbooks. These are yours to keep as a reference. Once you pass the test, the license is good for 5 years. The license fee is $60.00 to be paid to the Texas Department of Agriculture. During this 5 year period you will be required to complete 15 hours of Continuing Education (CEUs) in order to recertify.

Extension educational programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. Individuals with disabilities who require auxiliary aid, service or accommodations in order to participate in this school are encouraged to contact the AgriLife Extension office at 830-868-7167 to determine how reasonable accommodations can be made.

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Blanco County Lucky Leaf 4-H Club collected coats during the month of December to give to local families in need. Members Anna Olmedo, Brenna Wallace and Jasmine Barker are pictured in front of Town & Country Cleaners where the coats were collected. A very special thanks to owners Beverly Zimmerman and Tim Tunner for their donation of cleaning the many gently used coats.

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Happy New Year! We have been greeted with REAL Texas weather this year. It makes it difficult to have good days to work outside, but it will happen.

If you purchased a living Christmas tree to use inside this year, it is time to move it outside. Either plant it in the ground or use it as a patio tree. Keep it damp but not soggy. Add 2–3 inches of mulch around the tree.

If you received a plant for Christmas or purchased one, remove the foil from the pot, set it in the sink, run water through it, and let it drain. Place it back into the container. Set the plant in the brightest light available. Check it every 3-4 days for water. Check with your finger. If it is dry to the second knuckle, it needs to be watered. Feed at least every other week during winter. Potted plants need to be fed more often during the summer months and growing season.

K.B.B. is in the process of removing Christmas decorations from the Pecan Bottom and Bindseil Park. We added to the decorations this past season, so there is much more to remove. If the weather permits, we were working on Tuesday, January 8. We will work until the parks have been restored to normal. There will also be frozen plants to remove, new plantings, fertilizing and mulch to spread.

When you begin to cut down frozen plants, especially perennials, check how low the stems are dead (soft). Cut the stems below the soft portion and cover with mulch. This will help protect the plant roots from freezing. More plants will return the following spring.

Now is the time to do heavy pruning on hedges and shrubs. Prepare garden beds for Spring planting. There is still time for cool weather plants. Check with the nursery for transplants and fruit trees that are available.

Call Judy at 830-833-5663 or Retta at 830-833-4729 if you need information or if you have time to work with us.

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More from Keep Blanco Beautiful.

Prov 4:20-23 says, “My son, attend (perk up your ears) to my words; incline (stretch forward) thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life (spiritual) unto those that find them, and health (physical) to all their flesh. Keep (guard) thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Reading and heeding The Word, being a diligent student of the sayings, teachings, and precepts of The Bible, are the keys to true success in the Christian’s life. Success, both spiritual and physical. Both in the sweet by and by, and in the rough here and now. God’s Word will profit you now, in a very practical daily way, and will profit your eternal soul.

John 6:63 - It is the spirit that makes alive; the flesh profits nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. Notice, you are not spiritual if you are not in the Word. God’s Words are spirit. God’s Word is living and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, and divides the soulless from the spiritual, and is a discerner (decisive) when it comes to the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb 4:12). It will divide what is your own mind or will, and what is God’s mind and will.

The Word is a seed, an incorruptible seed, which lives and abides forever (1Pt 1:23). It is perfect (Jam 1:25). The Bible is God's Book. It is God breathed (inspired). Holy men wrote this book as the Spirit of God moved them (2Pt 1:19-21). How do we know the Bible is God’s Word? Hundreds of fulfilled prophecies, written hundreds, and even thousands, of years before they happened.

God magnifies His Word, even above His Name (Ps 138:2). God's Word is pure (Prov 30:5). Psa 12:6-7 - The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. You can trust that God has preserved His Word, just as He promised.

We must receive this Word like the Thessalonians did - as being from God and not from man (1Thess 2:13). When you read or hear The Word spoken, do you receive it as Almighty God speaking directly to you, or do you see it as suggestions and stories written by men? We are to receive God’s Word as from God, and take it seriously.

God's Word is absolute truth. Joh 17:17 - Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. God's Word will never pass away. It is eternal (Mk 13:31). It does not change: Psa 119:89 - For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven. It is a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path (Ps 119:105). God's Word is a fire and hammer (Jer 5:14, 20:9, 23:29), consuming its hearers, and smashing lies and every false way into pieces.

God's Word should be consumed and ingested (Job 23:12, Jer 15:16, Ps 119:103, 19:10). We cannot neglect to eat our natural food, and expect to function properly for very long. How much more, do you suppose, should you not miss your spiritual meals if you intend on functioning in Biblical success? Most Christians are starved! We need to feast on God’s Word! Many are malnourished and weak in the faith for lack of Word!

We must meditate day and night in God’s Word, and obey it, to prosper and have good success (Josh 1:8). We must both read and heed His Word. We must be doers of God's Word (Jam 1:22-25 & Mt 7:24-27). The wise hear the Word and then do it. The foolish hear the Word, and go on their merry way. Fools deceive themselves, thinking that because they have heard the Word, that is enough. The one blessed in his deed is the one who continues in (does) what God’s Word says. He hears it, then seeks to apply it.

I encourage you to read the Bible through this year. It only takes about 80 hours. There are 8,760 hours in a year. Give 80 hours to reading The Word. That leaves 8, 680 hours for other things. Now, surely you can handle that, Christian! Turn off the TV for an hour. Eat and read at lunch. Get up a little earlier. Cut out a hobby. Do whatever you have to do to make time for reading God’s Word. It is life to those that find them, and health to their flesh. Until next time, rejoice in The Lord!

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More from Focus on Faith.

All over the Old Testament, there are wars and rumors of wars! Rumors? No, details of wars that took place, describing how God helped His people victoriously slay the enemy. He devoured the enemies of his people, and caused his people to slay the enemy over and over again. Even women were major reasons that kings were killed; even one who portrayed herself as a whore, beheaded a ruler of a nation.

We have to fight sometimes, to ensure our safety and that of our children and grandchildren. I am so thankful for previous presidents of our nation who have led us to victory, and for those who have fought for our freedoms.

When I wake up sore and achy, muscles and bones just sore from laying on one side too long during the night, I sometimes soak in a hot bathtub, and thank the Lord for clean, hot water, and the safety and privacy of my bathroom, the safety of my warm home and land, and that I was born in this great nation of the United States of America.

There are some less fortunate, and I am sympathetic for them, but cannot help them. I can however, help myself, and that I do. I am thankful for the law that says I can protect myself, and for the laws that God put in place for the safety of those of us who love Him and believe in His dear Son, Jesus.

But there are those who seek to destroy us and our country, and it is written that they will try to destroy us, so we need to do whatever we can to protect ourselves and our little ones!

Read about how God saves His people, and causes His people to succeed in wars against other nations, and seek God for His divine help!

Psalm 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulerstake counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, Daniel 7:25

And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.

Daniel 7:24-26 (in Context) Daniel 7 (Whole Chapter)

If God has done it for others, He will do it for us! He can cause our enemies to confuse themselves and kill themselves! This modern technology can certainly backfire on someone with just the slip of a finger on a wrong button.

Read about this one in Joshua 10:11:

“And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.”

When you read Judges and Kings, for example, 1 Kings 16, you see how God does punish nations for sinning against Him, and also how He rewards kings and nations who love Him and keep His commands, and destroy all false gods within the territories of the kings domain.

Read God’s Word and see.

Hosea 4:6

”My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.”

You can take this any way you want to, but you can’t deny that knowledge is power, and the devil tried to trick Jesus by quoting Scriptures to Him, but because Jesus knew the Word, the Truth, He quoted it right back to the devil, thus defeating him for a little while, until another opportunity arose.

How well do you know God’s Word? Are you reading it? It is power. Don’t be the one who only listens to what the preacher shares to all the congregation when you go to church. Be the one who takes notes and goes home and opens up your Bible and sees if the preacher was preaching truth, and keep on reading and learning of God and how much He loves His people! Those of us who love Him and keep His commands are His people, if we believe in Jesus Christ we’ve been grafted unto the True Vine, which is Jesus!

Make a New Year’s resolution to read and learn of the LORD!

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More from Focus on Faith.

A young man who had much potential in the Roman army was told by his commander to gather sticks for a fire. He first was insulted and thought it below him to do so. His commander noticed his downcast look and took him aside and said, "If kindling wood is not gathered, the fire will not be started, if the fire is not started, a warm meal will not be provided on this cold evening, and the troops may be weakened in the night, and tomorrow in battle all may be lost!"

His task was not so unimportant after all. Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” (Matthew 13:31-31). God majors in small beginnings. Let us trust God, looking for the opportunity of service in our circumstances, and pray for God to use us as He sees fit for the advancement of His kingdom.

(To request a free non-denominational Bible correspondence course or to ask a Bible question call 830-833-4884 or emailbcc102@gmail.com - No personal contact will be made unless requested.)

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While the speaker at a Wisconsin church Bible conference, I met a discouraged visiting minister who said he had just resigned as pastor of a church he had served for eleven years. During his time as pastor, the church had grown from only a few families to a sizeable congregation. He had enjoyed his work there until one of the members began to criticize him; then he had allowed this grumbler to drive him to despair. Finally, tired of the attacks of his critic, he had quit.

Hearing the former pastor’s heartbreaking story reminded me of a paragraph in the book, “The Tongue---Angel or Demon?” that has been played out again and again in too many churches: “Contentious tongues have hindered the work of God a thousand times over. Critical tongues have broken the hearts and health of many pastors.” Here before me was living proof of author George Sweeting’s accurate observation.

But ministers aren’t the only targets of cruel critics. Sadly, fault-finders exist everywhere. And they’re always engaged in their favorite pastime: cutting down all who don’t live up to their exaggerated expectations. Oliver Wendell Holmes said, “The human race is divided into two classes – those who go ahead and do something and those who sit still and inquire why it wasn’t done another way.”

When we find ourselves unable to please our critics, we are in good company. Some grumbled when our Lord healed sick people on the Sabbath, others complained because they felt He spent too much time with sinners. Judas was upset when He allowed a woman to anoint His head with an expensive ointment, saying it should have been sold and the money given to the poor. Judas didn’t care about the poor, but linking his protest to the needy made him look good. Those who focus on faults are always looking for ways to justify their caustic comments that injure innocent people.

Peter said we are most like our Lord when we take unjust criticism patiently (1 Peter 2:20-21), but that’s a tall order. Few aspire to follow the steps that led to the cross.

Opportunities to demonstrate the reality of our faith when under fire abound because there is never a shortage of critics. These negative nuisances are everywhere, continually searching for something wrong with those who are doing their best to serve the Lord. They are always the first to hear of anything wrong and feel it their duty to spread the word. For centuries, their cruel tongues have kept ministers on the move, contributing to what a major news magazine once called “the game of musical pulpits.”

Are you a victim of critics in your church or community?

Lovingly tune them out.

Even the moon couldn’t keep shining if it paid attention to barking dogs.

The discouraged Wisconsin pastor found help in realizing he had been listening to the wrong people. Many in his church had appreciated his ministry and been helped by it but he hadn’t heard their compliments because he was so preoccupied with the cutting words of one who chose to focus on his faults. Listening to faithful people would have kept him from being discouraged and enabled him to continue his important work. He decided it was time to make a new commitment to his Lord and return to focusing on loving God and serving people as he had done before being devastated by criticism.

Let’s stop listening to the wrong people.

Those who love, support and encourage us deserve our attention. They are gifts from God to enable us to live in the sunshine no matter what our critics say.

Roger Campbell is an author, a broadcaster and columnist who was a pastor for 22 years. He can be reached at .

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More from Focus on Faith.

Colton Elrod drives to the basket.

Photo by Diana Schwind.

Blanco hosted a junior varsity tournament on Thursday, January 3, 2013 and Saturday, January 5, 2013.

Eight teams played in the junior varsity division with another eight teams competing in the freshman division.

The Blanco JV “Gold” team played in the freshman brackets, defeating Poteet 41-35, falling to Johnson City 24-32, and downing Llano 41-20 to capture third place.

The Blanco JV “Blue” team played in the junior varsity brackets, defeating Mason 63-10, downing San Antonio Lutheran 51-19, and losing to Llano 39-50 for second place.

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Carlin Green shoots over the Hawk for the score.

Photo by Diana Schwind.

The Panthers defeated the Canyon Lake Hawks 45-32 on Friday, January 4. Blanco led at half time 24-16.

Junior Kyle Sauceda scored the nets for 17 points. David Ramirez and Josh McCaslin each added 6 points. Colton Childress, Carlin Green, and Sam Isenberg scored 5 points, and Brett Chanmpion tossed in a free throw for 1 point.

The JV teams faced tough opponents with the Gold falling 17-44 and the Blue losing 27-40.

The Panthers will travel to Ingram on Friday, January 11, to fight the Warriors in their first district game.

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Starting their district with a 61-39 win over the Comfort Deer was a sweet way to begin 2013 for the Panthers on Friday, January 4, 2013. Blanco led 24-14 at the halftime break.

Sophomore point guard Lexee Jenkins led the team with 14 points, senior Leslie McClinton ripped the nets with 12 points, junior Meaghen Seales and sophomore Jamie McClinton each added 11 points. Also scoring for the Blanco were sophomores Reagen Rogers, 6 points, Payton Savarino, 4 points, and Charlsey Smith with 3 points.

The Panthers host the Johnson City Eagles on Tuesday, January 8, 2013, after press time. Then on Friday, January 11, 2013, the Panthers travel to Ingram to take on the Warriors.

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Registration Details

Registration for your team of 6 is $60 ($10/player) if paperwork and money are turned in by January 16. $15/player if after January 16. Minimum Team age --- 6th grade-Adult!

Email or find us on Facebook! Registration packets can be picked up and dropped off at the High School office or email us! Team captain collects all $ and turns in packet with all waivers signed. Registrations accepted through January 16. Double Elimination Bracket.

Spectator Admission: $5 Adults, $3 Students.

Other Fun Things

1st Place team gets team picture in the newspaper!

Concessions available.

The class of 2013 thanks you for your support!

Come out, have some fun & show off your Dodge & Duck skills!

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Robert Macgregor sings "Don't Be Cruel" with Elvis impersonator Robert Moran of New Braunfels. Elvis surprised residents and visitors on Wednesday, December 19, following Live Oak Medical Center's annual Christmas dinner. Family and friends gathered at the nursing home to celebrate the season with a huge feast of turkey and ham and all the trimmings. Each year, the staff at Live Oak prepare the massive feast, deck the residents out in festive holiday wear, and for the ladies, do their hair and makeup. The care and love the staff have for the residents is evident and makes the holidays very merry!

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More from Community News.

Is the remodel project for you or to sell your place? If the remodel is for you, it is a different ball game. But if the remodel is to help you sell your place, there are lots of things to keep in mind. Let’s talk about what you really need to do for both regardless.

If you are doing a remodel for yourself outside the city limits, the rules are different too. You don’t need building permits, for one. If the house is in the city limits, you need to apply and get a permit to make changes. This permit must be displayed in the window. An inspector will occasionally drop in to check it out. Some builders will make sure they follow the rules and code, even when you are outside of the city limits. Ask your builder what they do.

What is the difference if you are remodeling for yourself? If you plan on staying in this home, it’s almost whatever you want to do for your preference. Use those wild bright paint colors, pink carpet, remove that closet, or whatever strikes your fancy. A couple things you should do regardless are to hire licensed subcontractors to do the work, or hire a General Contractor to oversee the project. If there is electrical work to be done, it should all be done to code, meaning, anything not in code should be brought to code. This might cost a bit more, but it is for your protection. Plumbing is the same as electric. Hire someone who is licensed and allow them to do it properly. Remodeling that bathroom? You want a pink toilet, sink, and tile? This is a matter of preference. If that is what you like, than do it. It just does not help if you go to sell. Using bright colors of paint and carpet in each room that the kids picked out again are perfectly fine if you plan on living in the house and not selling it. Make the changes you want, since you are the one to live there. Just hire quality people so you can get the job done and enjoy.

Now let’s talk about if you are remodeling to sell. You really need to find a builder that can guide you “Correctly” on all the necessary code requirements. If you do not, the person buying the home will normally get an inspector who will point out all the things not done to code. What happens then? The new buyer will request these items to be corrected or get a credit to correct them. meaning, you could be paying for a job twice. Take all that beautiful 30’ railing on that second level that was fixed, painted incorrectly, and already paid for. Per Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the top edge of a railing must be 42 inches (plus or minus 3 inches) above the floor or walking area. The newly installed electrical outlets in the wet areas or exterior areas don’t have GFI. Again, these will be on that inspection report as an issue. These are just a couple of the things that can be a problem for you if not done correctly. Again, more money to change these out or credit that buyer. As you can see, simple things can bite you if you don’t know what you are doing or the person you hire is not familiar with the code. You will want to paint with neutral colors. Flooring should also be in neutral colors whether it is tile, wood, or carpet. People prefer to paint after they buy a color is they so chose. If you have an older home, more than likely the electrical changes will lead to more changes to bring them all up to code. A licensed electrician normally will not and should not do a simple change if it does not bring it to code. Doing a kitchen remodel can cost you a ton of money. If you are planning to sell, you normally will not be able to recover this money. If the kitchen is in really bad shape, you might need to do a remodel to help sell. Ask your Real Estate Agent what they think and get a cost from a builder. And if you do need to remodel that bathroom, again stick with basic colors. Use that white toilet, neutral tiles, and sink.

Regardless if the remodel is for you or to sell, get a quote, schedule for repairs, and hire quality people. Get references. Make sure the work is done to code; otherwise it could cost you double the amount if you go to sell. Ask about warranties too. This is for your protection.

For all Your Real Estate and Building needs or questions, call Debbie at 830-833-4249 or 713-818-6658.

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More from Debbie Vallone-Homeier.

Buying a home for the first time or the fifth can elicit a range of emotions from excitement to anxiety. Owning a home you can make your own can be fulfilling, but taking on the responsibility of homeownership might be stressful. The good news is that you can reduce that stress and focus on the enjoyable aspects of homebuying with these eight tips:

Be a smart saver. Long before you tour potential properties, lay the groundwork for a good home-buying experience by saving up for your down payment. Having some money to put toward the purchase gives you more flexibility when it’s time to get a loan.

Know what your credit report says. You’ll want to check your credit report to see if there are any mistakes or problems you can clear up prior to applying for a mortgage. You can request one free credit report annually from each of the three credit-reporting companies by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.

Learn about loans. Finding out as much as you can about various types of loans and assistance programs will give you the knowledge to find the right loan for you – one that you will be able to afford for the life of the loan. You can research whether you qualify for any assistance programs at TxHomePrograms.org.

Get pre-approved. You’ll put yourself in a strong homebuying position by getting pre-approved – not just pre-qualified – for a mortgage. Be realistic about how much you can actually afford. Take a hard look at your own finances and future plans to make sure you are living within your means.

Determine what you really want. Do you see yourself in a ranch-style home or downtown loft apartment? A neighborhood where you can walk your kids to school?

Figure out what features are most important to you and decide if there are some items you desire but could look past if everything else falls into place. Once you determine the must-haves, you can quickly make decisions about which properties to view.

Make sure you have professional assistance. Buying real estate is much more involved than most other transactions, even high-dollar purchases like automobiles and stocks. It can be a tremendous help to have a professional looking out for your best interests along the way.

A Texas realtor can explain the entire process, help you negotiate, keep the transaction on track and make sure you have the information you need to make good decisions.

Understand what goes into an offer. There’s much more to a good offer than deciding what price you’re willing to pay. Before you start searching for homes, talk to your Texas realtor about earnest money, option periods and fees, inspections, contingencies, closing time frames and other factors that may make your offer more attractive to the seller while protecting your interests.

Don’t let up after your offer is accepted. Not every transaction ends up with a closing. However, you give yourself the best chance of getting the keys to your new home if you and your realtor stay on top of the deadlines and tasks. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during this important part of the process. It will save you time and stress later on.

Buying a home should be an exciting time in your life. If you plan well and work with people who are looking out for your best interests, you can minimize the stress and enjoy the process of purchasing a new home.

For more information on buying a home or finding a Texas realtor, visit TexasRealEstate.com. For your real estate needs, please contact Waymond Lightfoot (RE/MAX Genesis) at 210-386-5201.

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More from The Real Estate Corner.

The Blanco Middle School UIL Team was also honored by the monthly Spotlight since they won a recent meet by a resounding margin of over 500 points over the second-place team.

Photo by Charles Willgren.

The library of Blanco High School was packed at Monday night’s BISD trustees’ meeting, not just with parents of Blanco Middle School UIL champions being honored, but with parents of elementary school students seeking answers about the safety of their children at school in the wake of the Newtown, Connecticut, shootings. An Update on District Safety Plans and Procedures was already scheduled, at which time Superintendent Dr. Buck Ford and principals from each campus explained their procedures.

Stephen Myers, parent of a kindergarten student, called the Sandy Hook shootings “a wake-up call that we need to heed” and called the schools of Blanco “a prime target for someone to copycat.”

“Our kids and our teachers are our most precious assets,” he continued, “and I want to be part of this discussion.” His solution to the perceived danger is paid, armed personnel at each school. “If someone walked in tomorrow, what would happen?” was his question and the question of all present.

President Matt Herden responded that a meeting has been held with first responders—the new Blanco Police Chief Michael Ritchey, county police, and EMS—but that the district does not see arming teachers as an appropriate reaction.

Austin police officer Joseph Hernandez, parent of two elementary students, cautioned trustees that it takes a lot of training for an individual to respond to a threat, and that the responsibility of teachers should be to take care of their students, not fire at intruders. He said there are enough trained police personnel available, himself included, to step up and provide security for the district. He cautioned against what he called a “kneejerk” reaction, as did Matt Herden, discounting the suggestion of Lt. Governor David Dewhurst that all teachers should be armed.

Dr. Ford read a policy statement stressing that each campus has an emergency response plan and that students and faculty perform intruder drills. He added that the current safety plan is under review. He expressed a sentiment echoed often in the wake of tragedies, that the perpetrator sent up red flags that someone could have seen and responded to. He encouraged parents and residents to be alert for suspicious behaviors.

In response to a concern by elementary parent Thaddeus Millard that exterior doors are left unlocked, principal Linda Romano said that they are not, and that she walks around the building often to make sure they are locked. There is also a sign-in procedure, she added, so that no one gets past the office without signing in. Blanco High School teacher Jason Murphy said he has discussed exit procedures with his students and that his classroom door is kept locked now so that no one can come in unannounced. He concluded, “I think everyone here is smart enough to come up with the best solution for our schools.”

Trustees seemed to welcome the input of those in attendance. Trustee Charles Riley responded, “It’s unfathomable. We all have kids, and we want to take care of our kids and your kids.” Darrell Wagner added, “We’re thinking about it as hard as you are, and we want to work it out.” Trustee Tim Nance said, “We want to know what your vision is.” He asked Dr. Ford where parents could get feedback for their concerns, and Dr. Ford responded that they should call the school administrative office. Principal Linda Romano told this reporter that she plans to send a letter to parents outlining the safety measures in place at BES to ease concerns. She echoed a sentiment expressed at last night’s meeting, that if any good comes from the Sandy Hook tragedy, it is that other schools become safer places. Elementary parent Tell Finch expressed concern that this issue may “get kicked down the road.” The contrary was true at last night’s meeting, where it was obvious that heightened security and student safety have been and will continue to be first priority. Trustees continued their discussion during Executive Session.

On a lighter note, Dr. Ford and students from each campus celebrated School Board Appreciation Month by honoring trustees with gifts ranging from snack packs to hand-written books and collared Blanco ISD shirts. A mural behind the trustees’ table proclaimed the district motto, “Rising to New Heights” with a picture of each trustee on a balloon rising above the façade of the renovated original Blanco School. Dr. Ford commended the trustees “for their commitment to school quality and advocacy for the children of our community,” calling it a “year-round commitment” and presented each of them a certificate. Blanco High student body president Kelsey Schwind presented each trustee with a limited edition Blanco Panther decal. Each elementary school grade “adopted” a trustee and interviewed him, with results ranging from a pre-K book entitled, “Where Is Mr. San Miguel?” to a book of hand-drawn pictures for Kirk Felps, to a “Biography of Matt Herden” composed by fifth graders. Middle school students gave each trustee a packet of bluebonnet cookies, while middle school UIL winner Taylor Kotfass read an original poem based on the children’s book, “The Legend of the Bluebonnet.” Montana Wiseman read an original humorous story called, “The Fortune Teller,” in which trustees each made a wish which was granted, based on luck and the hard work of each of them. Principal Bill Luna explained that the bluebonnet symbolizes service, and that trustees have modeled that quality to the students of BISD. Finally, a packet of handwritten letters from middle schoolers was presented to the trustees.

The Blanco Middle School UIL Team was also honored by the monthly Spotlight since they won a recent meet by a resounding margin of over 500 points over the second-place team. Team members Taylor Kotfas, Jayme Mowery, Jackson Hunter, Ciara Keogh, Lance Reinhard, Chase Coggins, Jacob Robinson, Garrett Seales, and Brenna Wallace each received a certificate and praise from Mr. Luna, who said,” This presentation makes me happy and proud. It’s how they won the points. They didn’t show off—they won with class.”

Dr. Ford shined the Spotlight for the district on Kathy Anderson, Director of Curriculum and Special Programs, commending her for an “outstanding job for the district.He called her a “valuable part of the administrative team” and said he welcomed the opportunity to honor her. Among her accomplishments is the implementation of the C-Scope Program, which aligns curriculum and her leadership of the Migrant Program in the district.

In other business, Dr. Ford updated trustees on steps by the district to implement Goal #2—“BISD Students will be college and post-high school ready.” Each principal enumerated activities to promote this goal, including career days, college days, Talent Search activities and high-school level courses at the middle school, and dual-enrollment classes at the high school. Principal Dustin Barton said that 42 juniors and seniors are currently enrolled in college-level classes while still in high school.

Kathy Anderson conducted a public hearing on the results of standardized testing in the district, which this year include TAKS results but not the controversial STAAR test. Results can be found on the district website, blancoisd.org.

Trustees voted to approve a resolution to defer implementing a statutory provision to have the STAAR test count as 15 percent of a student’s final grade. This is the second year that districts have received permission from the state to defer this requirement. Trustees also voted to order an election for school board trustee for places 5, 6, and 7 for May 11, 2013. Matt Herden currently holds Place 5; Charles Riley, Place 6; and Bernie San Miguel, Place 7. The first day to file for a place on the ballot is January 30, 2013, and the last date will be March 1 at 5 p.m.

The March trustees’ meeting has been changed from the second Monday, March 11, to the first Monday, March 4, because the original date falls within the district’s spring break.

Vanguard Contractors project manager Joel Benjegerdes updated trustees on the progress of the elementary school construction/renovation project and showed pictures of new windows in place at the back of the Old Yellow Building and exposed trusses in the new library, which will give it “a lodge look,” according to Benjegerdes. He said a highlight of the latest progress is the gypsum board which is 90 percent complete in the east classroom wing, allowing the heat to be turned on. In response to trustee San Miguel’s question, Benjegerdes said that the drainage issues have been corrected now that grass has germinated to absorb runoff. Darrel Wagner asked why a water softener system was not originally specified, and if its addition late has caused damage to appliances in the new cafeteria kitchen. Kay Fraser said there does not seem to be a problem. He also asked why the freezer space is not as large as that at the high school and was told that additional shelving could be added to increase its capacity. Finally, he requested that TxDOT be contacted to coordinate the flashing school zone lights on Highway 281 with the times that school opens and closes. A walk-through of the historic building with trustees is scheduled for Monday, February 11, at 6 p.m. prior to the regular meeting.

Following Executive Session, trustees voted to extend the superintendent’s contract for three more years.

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Texas Buffalo Soldier Association Members at 2011 Lake Brownwood Open House.

The Buffalo Soldiers will be at Blanco State Park on Saturday, February 9 for a fun and educational outdoor experience for the entire family. This Heritage & Outreach program from Texas Parks & Wildlife is a lasting tribute to the Black soldiers who served in the U.S. Army during the Indian Wars campaign from 1866 to 1892, and emphasizes our shared western heritage of that historic time. The Native Americans had such great respect for the fighting abilities of these soldiers that they called them "Buffalo Soldiers," because of the strength and courage they displayed in battle.

Buffalo soldiers were stationed at frontier forts and other military outposts from Texas to the Dakota territories to help with the westward expansion of the United States. "They helped build the West!"

On February 9 you will be able to visit frontier encampments and experience life as it was on the western frontier. Learn about the life of the Buffalo Soldiers including their history and culture. Participate in several outdoor activities such as backyard bass fishing with cane poles, Orienteering, Frontier baseball, Seminole Scouting, which includes Native American stories and games, and animal tracking. Also learn about women of the frontier – especially Cathy Williams, the only documented case of a lady Buffalo Soldier.

The program runs from 10:00am through 4:00pm and will be located at various sites throughout the park. The event is free with paid park entry. Entrance permits are $4 per person, children 12 and under are free.

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