Dieter F. Uchtdorf tells a story about a man “whose lifelong dream was to board a cruise ship and sail the Mediterranean Sea. He dreamed of walking the streets of Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. He saved every penny until he had enough for his passage. Since money was tight, he brought an extra suitcase filled with cans of beans, boxes of crackers, and bags of powdered lemonade, and that is what he lived on every day.

“He would have loved to take part in the many activities offered on the ship—working out in the gym, playing miniature golf, and swimming in the pool. He envisioned those who went to movies, shows, and cultural presentations. And, oh, how he yearned for only a taste of the amazing food he saw on ship—every meal appeared to be a feast! But the man wanted to spend so very little money that he didn’t participate in any of these. He was able to see the cities he had longed to visit, but for the most part of the journey, he stayed in his cabin and ate only his humble food.

“On the last day of the cruise, a crew member asked him which of the farewell parties he would be attending. It was then that the man learned that not only the farewell party but almost everything on board the cruise ship—the food, the entertainment, all activities—had been included in the price of his ticket. Too late the man realized that he had been living far beneath his privileges.” (Ensign Magazine May 2011)

I suppose this could be called the Parable of the Cruise Ship. It could be likened to many things but I propose to liken it to an American citizen who fails to realize his privileges as a citizen of the United States. What a blessing it is to live at this time in this great nation! There are some, however, who are willing to sell their privileges of citizenship for a mess of proverbial pottage.

The Constitution of the United States was designed to limit the power of the federal government by spelling out very specifically what that government of the people, by the people and for the people can and cannot do. Anything not thus spelled out is left to the prerogative of the various states or of the people.

Noah Webster wrote in 1834, “When you become entitled to exercise the right of voting for public officers, let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers, just men who will rule in the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government depends on the faithful discharge of this duty; if the citizens neglect their duty, and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon be corrupted; laws will be made, not for the public good, so much as for selfish or local purposes; corrupt or incompetent men will be appointed to execute the laws; the public revenues will be squandered on unworthy men; and the rights of the citizens will be violated or disregarded.

“If a republican government fails to secure public prosperity and happiness, it must be because the citizens neglect the divine commands, and elect bad men to make and administer the laws. Intriguing men can never be safely trusted.” (Noah Webster, “Advice to the Young”, 1834)

It is imperative that each of us realizes that our unalienable rights as citizens are granted to us from our Creator rather than from any earthly government. If we want to enjoy the full exercise of our rights and privileges we must know and defend the Constitution of the United States. If we fail to do so, we will end up like the man on the cruise ship—eating beans, crackers and artificial lemonade when we could have been enjoying the feasts, the harvests of freedom and independence that citizenship offers to each of her own. Let’s not live below our privileges by neglecting to understand and to preserve the Constitution, the basic law of the land.

Comments? mustardseeds101@yahoo.com

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AUSTIN — June 16 was the deadline for the governor to veto or approve legislation passed in the regular session of the 83rd Texas Legislature.

Gov. Rick Perry beat the deadline by two days, releasing a list of vetoed and approved bills on June 14. Just a few among the 24 bills Perry prevented from becoming laws by strokes of his pen were:

HB 217 — prohibiting school districts from selling beverages with added sweeteners, milk with more than one percent fat or juices less than 100 percent juice.

HB 950 — providing uniformity between state and federal anti-discrimination laws so that employees and employers have consistent laws governing employment relations.

HB 2836 — requiring all statewide standardized tests to be determined valid by an entity independent of the Texas Education Agency or the State Board of Education.

HB 3063 — giving state-sponsored competitive advantage to some Texas communities over others in attracting aerospace industry businesses.

SB 15 — adding to the management responsibilities of boards of regents of institutions of higher education and would expand the training requirements of individual regents.

SB 17 — providing for a free-of-charge, state-provided school safety-training program for certain employees of a school district or charter school that does not have a peace officer or security personnel assigned full-time to the campus.

A few from the list of bills Perry put his signature of approval on include:

HB 8 — revising statutes relating to protective orders issued for victims of human trafficking and the offense of human trafficking;

SB 21 — requiring mandatory drug screening as a condition for the receipt of unemployment benefits;

HB 308 — allowing public school students and staff to use traditional holiday greetings and display religious scenes and symbols on school property.

However, SB 1, the state’s general appropriations bill for fiscal years 2014-2015, suffered a number of line-item vetoes by the governor. One of those vetoes was of the budget for the state’s Austin-based Public Integrity Unit, a state agency tasked with investigating ethics complaints lodged against public officials.

In explaining his veto, Perry wrote, “Despite the otherwise good work the Public Integrity Unit’s employees, I cannot in good conscience support continued State funding for an office with statewide jurisdiction at a time when the person charged with ultimate responsibility of that unit has lost the public’s confidence. This unit is in no other way held accountable to state taxpayers, except through the state budgetary process. I therefore object to and disapprove of this appropriation.”

In April, Travis County District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg, chief of the Public Integrity Unit, was arrested on a charge of driving while intoxicated. After serving a short jail sentence, she was released. Some lawmakers pressured Lehmberg to resign, but she chose to remain in office.

Redistricting bills move

The Texas Senate, in special session on June 13, approved the four major redistricting bills Gov. Perry originally called state lawmakers to pass in the current special session of the Legislature.

Senate bills 1, 3 and 4, as tentatively approved by the Senate, would preserve the federal court-drawn maps of the state’s U.S. Congressional districts and Texas House districts. Those three bills were passed on split votes with 16 Republicans voting aye and 11 Democrats voting nay. SB 2, relating to the redistricting maps of state Senate districts, was approved on a unanimous vote. All four bills move to the House, where that body’s select committee on redistricting will take up and consider its own set of bills relating to the districts as redrawn in 2012 by a San Antonio federal court. Differences in the House and Senate versions of the bills would have to be worked out in a conference committee.

Perry adds to session call

On June 10 Gov. Perry added items relating to the funding of transportation infrastructure projects to the special session call and June 11 he expanded the call to include two more items: legislation relating to the regulation of abortion procedures, providers and facilities; and legislation relating to establishing a mandatory sentence of life with parole for a capital felony committed by a 17-year-old offender.

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On June 12, 1953 Arthur Daniel and Marjorie Preiss were united in marriage in Sequin, TX. They currently reside in Johnson City. They are blessed with two sons, Carl of Dallas and Kenneth of Flower Mound and one daughter Nellda Gallagher of Ft. Worth.

They have 4 grandsons, Paul, Andrew, Mason and Jordan, and 2 granddaughters, Emily and Catherine and 1 great-granddaughter, Fiona Elise Daniel.

A celebratory trip to Royal Gorge, CO. and Pikes Peak, is in the future.

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Audra Janice Joiner was born April 21, 1932 and went to be with the Lord June 4, 2013 with her children by her side.

Her parents Alvin and Maggie Duhman Brower preceded her in death: as well as her husband John Wayne (Bo) Joiner in 1998; and two sons, an infant Alvin Lee in 1948, and Alan Kent in 2001.

She is survived by her children, Barbara J. Cowey and husband Albert of Seguin, Diana K. Blackburn and husband James of Blanco and Jay W and wife Laura of Sutherland Springs.

Grandchildren are Christopher A. Joiner and wife Rose of Schertz, Clifton L Cowey and wife Sheryl, Darrel W Cowey and wife Susan of Seguin, Eric A. Cowey and wife Andrea of College Station, Fairah L. Solomon and husband Heath of Arkansas; Melissa D. Blackburn, Max W. Blackburn and wife Renee’ of Blanco, Hannah J. Blackburn of Bryan, Emily R. Blackburn of Temple, Jennifer L. Joiner, Joshua W. Joiner and wife Casi, Jessica D. Shelton and husband Jaime, Jaelyn N. Joiner, Jaclyn D. Joiner all of Sutherland Springs. She also had eleven great grandchildren.

Janice had many titles and was best known as Mom, Granny, Nanny, Me maw and Great-Gran. A few things her children would say are she was “one of a kind” and she would always say “Can’t never could”. She was as much sassy as she was kind hearted. Janice was the most amazing chef, loving the opportunity to provide for family and friends the dropped by for a visit through out her fifty-one years of marriage with Bo and then the years on her own.

Early on she did childcare to assist in providing and to stay home with her children. She took in washing and ironing from others as well. As Dad developed a drilling and oil field workover business in Wilson County, Mom did the books and ran parts for the jobs. She never let her lack of formal education hold her back. Parts finding, before computer days, was a gift that she excelled at. Her ability to make beautiful items from others leftover never ceased to amaze family and friends. She was a talented Seamstress and could crotchet anything leaving treasures for us.

Our lives have been blessed and are better because she was our Mom, Granny, Nanny, Me maw, and Great-Gran.

A memorial graveside service by Brother Gary Erwin with Precious Memories sang by Keith Johanson was held Thursday, June 6, 2013 at the Sutherland Springs Cemetery. The grandsons served as pallbearers.

Memorials may be given to the AGWM#2954972 at Hope Church in LaVernia to benefit a granddaughter leaving for the mission field in Kenya come September.

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Sarah McKenzi Brotzman, daughter of Corey Brotzman and grand daughter of Mike and Sandra Brotzman was chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Texas Pageant. The pageant was held June 9 and 10 in Houston, TX at the Royal Sonnesta Inn & Suites. Sarah competed in the Teenage division along with 98 other girls ranging from 16-18 years old.

The National American Miss pageants are dedicated to celebrating America’s greatness and encouraging its future leaders. Each year, the pageant awards thousands in scholarships and prizes to recognize and assist in the development of young women nationwide. All activities are age-appropriate and family-oriented.

Families interested in learning more about this unique and outstanding youth program may visit www.namiss.com.

The National American Miss pageants are for “Today’s Girl and “tomorrow’s Leaders.” The pageant program is based on inner beauty, as well as poise and presentation, and offers an “All-American spirit of fun for family and friends.” Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for the future.

Sarah competed in the casual wear modeling, photogenic, interview, personal introduction and formal wear competitions. She was awarded a 4th runner up in the casual wear modeling which earned her an invitation to compete at the national level pageant held in Hollywood, California during Thanksgiving this year! Sarah was awarded 1st runner up as most Promising Model overall as well as Portfolio Award for her photos and most exciting she was chosen both days for her “spirit” and received a Spirit of America Trophy day one, and then was the judges overall pick for Most Sportsmanship and Friendliest overall during the formal crowning event.

Sarah would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who helped her get to the Texas pageant; Git R Dug, Rivalry Screen Printing, Buggy Barn Museum, Alexander Construction, Ruiz Construction, Best Western Blanco Luxury Inn and Suites, Blanco County Inn, K&C Supply, Blanco Veterinary Clinic, Blanco Tire and Brakes, Robert and Nickie Cox, Redbud Cafe, Express Care Blanco, Mom, Grandma and Papa, Aunt Dixie and Doug, cousins Laura and Mike Brotzman and Hallie and Steve Brown.

In Sarah’s own words, “Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to represent Blanco County in such an awesome environment! I had a great time and made lots of new friends, it was a great experience! I am planning on doing whatever it takes to attend the National Pageant in November. I know it will take lots of hard work and dedication, and lots of sponsorships! Wish me luck!”

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Leading utility expert John D. Hewa has been named as the new chief executive officer of Pedernales Electric Cooperative. Hewa currently works in Arlington, Virginia, as vice president of research, engineering and technical services for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

“John impressed the Board with his knowledge of new technologies that can create efficiencies while improving services,” said PEC Board President Kathy Scanlon. “The Board voted unanimously in support of John whose leadership will allow PEC to implement progressive programs that improve our members’ experience while still controlling costs.”

Hewa is a national speaker who is known in the electrical industry for his technical experience and get-it-done enthusiasm. His spirit of innovation and collaborative approach have brought him success in earlier positions as general manager for Talquin Electric Cooperative in Florida and as director of utilities for the City of Manassas, Virginia. Hewa is known for looking critically at every aspect of a business to improve efficiency and customer service. He holds a Bachelor degree in electrical engineering and a Masters degree in engineering management. He is a licensed Professional Engineer.

“PEC has a long-standing reputation of excellence in an industry that is now undergoing significant change,” said Hewa. “My mission is to work closely with members to understand what they are experiencing and how PEC can improve service. I appreciate and I am honored that the Board selected me to lead this Co-op at this critical time.”

The PEC Board began a national search in February for a dynamic leader who could deliver on the Co-op’s strategic plan for members. Hewa will begin July 22, replacing RB Sloan, who left the Cooperative in March. Former chief financial officer Frank Skube has been acting as Interim CEO.

“John sees things in three dimensions and is the new face that represents the cooperative world today,” said District 6 Director Larry Landaker. “I have the utmost confidence that John Hewa can deliver to members and make PEC a model for the industry. He has the know-how and clout to get it done.”

PEC is the nation’s largest distribution electric cooperative with more than 250,000 meters and a service territory of 8,100 square miles. As of 2012, the Co-op had more than $1.3 billion in plant assets and posted a net margin of nearly $47 million.

Hewa said he is eager to serve members of the Texas Hill Country. “I am thankful for this wonderful opportunity to help shape the future of PEC by giving particular attention to member expectations. My goal is to have a long-lasting and positive impact on the member experience. That’s one way PEC and all cooperatives can truly distinguish themselves from other electric providers.”

Hewa, his wife, Laura, and their three daughters enjoy outdoor family activities and are looking forward to exploring Central Texas.

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More from Community News.

This weekend, June 20-22, the Blanco Youth Football League will host its First Annual BBQ Cook-Off at Yett Park in Blanco.

The BYFL Cook-Off will start with set-up on Thursday, and Cook’s Choice and Margarita Competition on Friday night, as well as the newly added Kid’s Burger Contest at 7pm! A movie for the kids will be shown at 9pm, admission is $2, and concessions will be available.

On Saturday, the BBQ Competition will begin, with rival teams serving up their best brisket, chicken, and ribs – judges will evaluate the presentation and taste of the entries.

In addition, there will also be a contest for the best beans, best BBQ Sauce.

There will be activities through out the day on Saturday, but the biggest, aside from the BBQ Cook-off, will be the Washer Tournament – registration begins at 11am, the tournament goes until noon.

Turn in times for the cook-off will be: Dutch Oven, noon, Beans, 12:30pm, Chicken, 1pm, Ribs, 2pm, Barbecue Sauce, 230pm, and Brisket, 3:30pm. At 5pm, there will be a live auction, and at 6pm, winners will be announced and trophies handed out.

After a day of cooking and playing, Southern Mix will take to the stage under the covered pavilion at Yett Park at 8pm.

There will be a $10 gate fee for all adults and children over 12. Children 5-12 are $5, and 5 and younger are free. The wristband will get you in all day.

The event is BYOB, but this is a family friendly event. Please drink responsibly.

Fees are as follows: Kid’s Competition ($20 entry fee), BBQ Competition ($150 Entry fee) Brisket, Chicken, Ribs (spare), Cook’s Choice (Included in Entry fee) Friday night, Team bake grill, smoke whatever they want and serve to guests and judges, Margarita Competition ($25 Entry fee) Friday night, Dutch Oven Competition ($25 Entry fee) Saturday, Beans Competition ($25 Entry fee) Saturday, BBQ Sauce Competition ($25 Entry fee)Saturday, Washer Tournament ($25 Entry Fee) Saturday at 12:00 p.m.

For more information, and for the rules and regulations, please visit the BYFL website at www.blancoyouthfootball.com.

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Blanco Performing Arts will present the second annual Children’s Art Festival on Saturday, June 29 from 8:30-noon at the Uptown Blanco complex. Four talented presenters from different artistic areas will participate.

Nominated for “Best Classical Instrumentalist of 2011-2012” by the Austin Critics’ Table, pianist Carla McElhaney is highly regarded as a passionate and dynamic performing artist and coach. She plays with REVEL, the classical band, and the newly formed Zenith Quintet and teaches at Texas Lutheran University. She will play a short program of widely contrasting pieces as illustrator and artist Ellen Murray paints her interpretation of the music.

A graduate of Ringling School of Art and Design, Ms.Murray is active in Austin as a children’s art camp instructor and will guide the students in painting their own creations.

Ballet San Antonio principal dancer Sarah Pautz will lead the students in interpretive dance and movement. She has performed leading roles with the Ballet in her five years with them and is also sought-after as a teacher and guest artist. Sarah Culpepper, a past recipient of Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year in the Comal ISD and literary UIL event luminary while a student at BISD, will lead the children in dramatic improvisation inspired by Carla’s musical selections.

This event is sponsored in part by the Texas Commission on the Arts and is offered free of charge, but registration is required because space is limited. To register, please call 830-833-5164.

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L-R: Jacie and Avery Walla, Baylee Byler & Cameron Scruggs spent all day Saturday playing in the Blanco river, and managed to sink the kayak too!

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Got the Too Hot to Be Outside – Summertime Blues? Stop by the library and pick up a bestseller or new movie today! Thanks to our Friends of the Blanco Library, we have added tons of movies to the collection. We have everything from “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” to the “Harry Potter” set and “The Lord of the Rings.” We also have the top five New York Times Bestsellers: Inferno by Dan Brown, And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini, Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris, 12th of Never by James Patterson, and The Hit by David Baldacci.

Parent’s, don’t forget to bring your kids to meet local teen author, Connor Eyzaguirre this Friday at 10:30am! Here is our updated schedule:

June 21st

Meet Youth Author: Connor Eyzaguirre

June 28th

Meet the Author: Kathleen Shields

July 5th

Playing in the Potato Patch

July 12th

Snakes Alive!

July 19th

Fun with Gnomes & Fairies

July 26th

Closing Readings and Party w/ Connor!

The Blanco Library needs your help! We need front desk volunteers for Monday afternoon 3-6pm, Friday mornings 10-1pm, Friday afternoon 1-4pm, and Friday afternoon 4-6pm. If you are interested in any of these positions, please come into the library and fill out an application. Be sure to let us know which one of these volunteer availabilities you want.

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

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Revelation 18:1-24 - “1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.

2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.

4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.

6 Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double.

7 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.

8 Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.

9 And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,

10 Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come.

11 And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their merchandise any more:

12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble,

13 And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.

14 And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.

15 The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,

16 And saying, Alas, alas that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!

17 For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,

18 And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city!

19 And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate.

20 Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.

21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.

22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee;

23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived.

24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.”

I’ve read that the book of Revelations was written so the nations persecuting Christians could not understand it. God’s Word says people who are not believers of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and son of man, who lived, died and arose from the dead, don’t understand because it’s written in John 12, verse 40 “40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.”

In John 12:32 Jesus said “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.”

Would you like to experience real peace in your heart? Jesus gives us His peace, and when you’ve experienced it you won’t want to live a day without it. He draws us to His Door, but we must reach out and knock on it before He will open it. Our hearts must sincerely want Him and love Him.

As for this chapter, if Babylon the whore is religion, sin or both, it’s still death. Any life without Christ is death. As we reach deeper into the life and ways of Christ Jesus, we realize we’re nothing without Him and can’t live a rich, full life without His guidance and Word. His Word is living waters, and they are full of His life flow. Be filled with His Word and His Holy Spirit, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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1John 3:1a says, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” The name “Father” is powerful and holy. It is the very name by which we are instructed to address and relate to our Creator, our God. We are to pray, "Our Father". “A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society.” - Billy Graham. Our society is seriously lacking the respect and honor it once had for fathers. Dads like those portrayed on The Rifleman, The Andy Griffith Show, Little House on the Prairie, My Three Sons, etc.; have been replaced with Homer Simpson, Al Bundy, & Frank Barone (You can tell I haven’t watched TV in a while). Rude, lazy, & clueless seems to be the idea of fathers today - and our society suffers for it.

The world cries out for good father's today. A Godly Man - a Godly father - has become the exception in our day, rather than the rule. But why? I suppose there is more than one answer, but could much of the reason be because fathers don't know The Book? Because they are not students of God's Holy Word? They are not disciples of The Lord Jesus Christ? I believe this is true, because God is our Heavenly Father, and to be a godly father, is to be like Him. And in order to be like Him, we must know Him; and we only will know Him through knowing His Word. If every father knew and obeyed God’s Word, much of the world’s problems would be solved overnight. That may seem like an overstatement, but I don’t believe it is.

So what are Fathers to do? Fathers are to give instruction (Prv 1:8, 4:1, 13:1, 15:5). They are to teach their children primarily God’s Word (Dt 11:18-21). For a father to consistently instruct his children in God’s Word, he must first know it himself. Bringing a child to church for an hour on Sunday is not enough. They are bombarded with worldly philosophy all week, so God’s philosophy must be taught all week. A family alter is the best investment of time a father can make. Time with the family everyday to read God’s Word, discuss it, sing unto The Lord, and pray together.

Fathers make the rules (Prv 6:20). There should be no debate about the rules of the house; no debate about whether or not we’re going to church; no debate about what is expected from children. Make the rules, in line with God’s Word, and enforce them.

Fathers correct (Prv 3:12, Heb 12:6, Rev 3:19). All three of these verse speak of two things: Love & Discipline. They go hand in hand. If you love your child, you discipline your child. If you don’t love your child, then you don’t. It’s that simple. “A Man’s children and his garden both reflect the amount of weeding done during the growing season.” A father provokes his child to wrath, if he does not bring him up in the instruction and warning of the Lord (Eph 6:4).

Fathers rejoice in their children when they do well (Prv 15:20, 23:24, 29:3). Raise your child to be wise in God’s Word, and you will rejoice in him later. He won’t be perfect, just like you’re not perfect - but he will reflect God’s ways and character. Fathers also don’t burn bridges or close their hearts to their wayward children. They look for him constantly to come to his senses, and runs to him with open arms when he does (Lk 15:20). That is how our Heavenly Father loves, and we are to do the same. “Small boys become big men through the influence of big men who care about small boys.”

“Blessed is the man that hears many small voices call him father!” (Ps 127:3-5). Children are a blessing from God. Perhaps your father was cruel, physically abusive, or abandoned you. That is not your fault. That is his weakness; his lack of being a real man - a godly man. Forgive him. Let go of the bitterness and hate. Turn him over to God to be dealt with. Let God heal your broken heart. Ask Him - He will do it. At the same time, you can’t blame your father for your sorry life and all of your bad decisions today. God is your true Father (Isa 64:8). He is a Father to the fatherless (Ps 68:5). Give your life to Jesus, and be adopted by the best Dad in the universe (Gal 4:4-7)! Make no more excuses. You are not destined to failure. That is a lie. Call on your Heavenly Father.

“What Is A Dad? A dad is someone who wants to catch you before you fall, but instead picks you up, brushes you off, and lets you try again. A dad is someone who wants to keep you from making mistakes, but instead lets you find your own way, even though his heart breaks in silence when you get hurt. A dad is someone who holds you when you cry, scolds you when you break the rules, shines with pride when you succeed, and has faith in you even when you fail…” - Unknown. “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.” Believe in your children. Bless them, challenge them, encourage them. This is what God does - this should be what we do. To all the godly fathers out there, I say “Thank you”. Keep pressing forward. Don’t give up. It’s not hopeless - and you’re not helpless. God’s grace is sufficient! Until next time, rejoice in The Lord!

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Little Johnny was visiting his grandparents on their farm. They gave little Johnny a slingshot and he practiced in the woods, but he could never hit the target. As he was walking back to the house, he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let a rock fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it. He was shocked and grieved. He hid the dead duck in the woodpile, only to see his sister watching. For the next few days when it came chore time, his sister said, "Johnny wants to do it", and she would whisper to Johnny, "Remember the duck."After several days of this he was fed up and he came to Grandma and confessed that he killed the duck. She knelt down, gave him a hug, and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing. But because I love you, I forgave you, I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."

In Christ "we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace" (Ephesians 1:7). The cross of Christ is the great demonstration of His love for us. Sometimes a person comes to Christ but they let something from their past burden them and gain control over them to the extent that they cannot move forward. If you have come to Christ refuse to let your 'forgiven past' dominate your life. As Paul said, "Consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11). The Lord truly seeks not only to forgive you of all your transgressions but also to really give you a new life. Come and learn of our Lord's grace and His plan for your life!

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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By Diana Schwind

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So many times we get asked the question “Do we need to find an Architect to design and draw our home?”, and my answer is NO. Most builders can design and draw your home for you. Why pay all the extra fees? Personally, I know if we design and draw your home, we give you that as a credit back if you have us build it. And if you don’t use us to build, we do invoice for the design and drawings. Do all builders do this? No. That is why you should get a couple quotes from several builders. I also think you get a more personal touch with the builder doing this.

Bring all your ideas, pictures, chicken scratch, and whatever else with you when you are ready to sit down and start talking with the builder. The builder will take all your stuff and add it together to create that dream home. If you already have a set of plans, they can be altered too. Your builder will be glad to explain the process. Baby steps, is the motto. The builder will start with your ideas, get them on paper/computer, modify…modify…modify until you are happy with the design. Don’t be afraid to change something at this stage. It will be much easier to add that sink and additional plumbing, a utility room, attached garage, etc. Some things are not a big deal later, like a detached garage. Just ask your builder what you need to include.

If you are building the house yourself, you might want to get an architect to make sure your plans will work and that they are engineered correct. If you decide to use an architect, interview them just like you would a builder. Are your personalities compatible? What are their costs? What all will they do for you? How much will changes cost you? Just a few questions to ask.

There are programs you can buy for your computer to help you design your home. Beware of these too. They can help you get the general concept down, but for the final consult your builder. We once had a client that used one of these programs and they proceeded to tell us what materials to use, how many nails it would take, and more. Was it accurate? No. Did it tell where to use treated wood and not? No. So be careful. This will be your home and it is the one place you really do not want to skimp on.

Your builder will go over the pros and cons of an architect. Just ask them to tell you why or why not you might want to use an architect. Happy designing!

For ALL Your Real Estate and building needs or questions, call Debbie at (830)833-4249/(713)818-6658 or debbie@vallonerealestate.net

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Blanco County News is hosting a Summer Writing Contest! The theme is “News from 2113” Think you have what it takes to write a newspaper article? Let’s find out! Pick up an official entry form, with complete rules at the Newspaper Office, 714 4th St, or at the Blanco Library.

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So your family’s housing needs have changed and you’ve decided to put your home on the market. Now you need to find someone who can successfully market your property and get you the most exposure to attract offers … but where do you start?

Use the good kind of traffic

The Internet has become the starting point for many homebuyers’ property searches, and online marketing efforts have grown to reflect that trend.

A 2011 survey of Texas homebuyers and sellers found that 89 percent of buyers used the Internet in their search, and 94 percent of sellers in Texas reported that their home was listed or advertised online.

But Web-based marketing doesn’t just include the multiple listing service anymore. An increasing number of REALTORS® are using their own Web site or blog, their broker’s Web site, social media and social networking sites to promote their listings.

The good thing about the Web is you can offer visitors multimedia tools that more buyers expect to find while searching. Check out a prospective REALTOR®’s current listings online. Do they include photo slideshows, a virtual tour or maybe even a diagram of the home’s layout? You might be able to expect your REALTOR® to provide the same for your home.

Don’t forget the old reliables

Despite the increased attention paid to online marketing tools, there remains a lot of value in traditional marketing techniques. Yard signs, open houses, printed fliers and newspaper ads are still considered standard tools for promoting your home to a variety of audiences.

In fact, 85 percent of Texas homebuyers said they find print newspaper ads very useful or somewhat useful in their home search in 2011. Your ideal REALTOR® should be familiar with the market, which publications reach the largest number of potential buyers and whether classified ads or display ads are appropriate.

Holding open houses may also be included in your Texas REALTOR®’s marketing plan. But if not, or if you would prefer not to, you can always discuss these options with them and they will be happy to accommodate your wishes. These are great conversations to have with your Texas REALTOR®, whose goal is to help you get the most out of your investment.

Asking for referrals is a great way to search for a Texas REALTOR®. Ask your friends, family members or coworkers who they would recommend. A word-of-mouth referral is great starting point where you can get honest feedback.

Find the best fit

It’s ideal to work with a Texas REALTOR® who is familiar with your area because they will understand which marketing tools are most likely to succeed. Ask prospective REALTORS® about their current marketing and how they would market your property. REALTORS® have different strengths that may include the Internet, MLS, print ads, open houses, staging, and other means. Make sure you’re comfortable with the marketing efforts planned for your property.

In addition, the Find-a-REALTOR® search on TexasRealEstate.com allows you to locate a REALTOR® by proximity to your area, and you can narrow the search by designations and by specialty. Remember that you aren’t obligated to work with a Texas REALTOR® until you sign a residential listing agreement form. You are free – and encouraged to – interview multiple REALTORS® to determine who can meet your expectations before deciding to enter into a contract with someone.

In today’s real estate market, many agents launch an all-out multi-faceted marketing campaign. A buyer’s market means stiff competition for sellers and it helps if you pull out all the creative stops. Sit down with your REALTOR® and discuss innovative ways to step up the marketing strategy. The more visibility your property has, the more likely you are to come across a qualified buyer.

For more information on buying or selling property in Texas, please call Waymond Lightfoot at (210) 386-5201.

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More from The Real Estate Corner.

We recently returned from Sarasota, Fl. spending time with my 2 children and 2 grandchildren. Of course my Daddy, Harvey "Gene" Green, who will be a young 90 this Dec. lives with me, here in Blanco and took the trip as well. He spent 10 days with his grandkids and great-grandkids, something he doesn't get the joy of doing often enough. While staying at the Sarasota Sun 'N' Fun Resort, we had plenty to keep us all busy, even during the rainy days and the tornado warning that came through while staying there. Thank God, no touch down! Nothing can be more important than spending time with family! - Deborah Green Dworaczyk and Harvey "Gene" Green

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Join the Celebration! Yes, once again we are going to have a spectacular Fourth of July Spangle Dangle Celebration, an event for all ages, starting in downtown Johnson City.

Break out the lawn chairs and grab a spot on the parade route, starting at the corner of LBJ Drive and East Pecan Avenue, going west to Nugent Avenue, making a right around the Courthouse, then going east on Cypress Street back to LBJ Drive. Bring the kids, grandma and grandpa, mom and dad, even your next door neighbor for a fun-filled day, starting at 10:00 AM. Anyone can participate in the parade, so, if you would rather be moving than sitting, dress up in your most patriotic attire and be part of it. That is what makes a parade so much fun. A new trophy for the most patriotic child and animal combo will be awarded, so kids talk to your elders and get them to help you dress up with your dog, cat, pig, horse, cow, chicken, goat, lamb and put on a show for the parade celebration. This could be the highlight of the whole day! We will give out a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Best Floats, the most Patriotic Float, and the most Patriotic Child/Animal Combo Presentation.

Other activities will get underway at the Blanco County Fairgrounds, starting with the washer pitching competition.

Registration begins at 12 noon and competition starts at 1:00 PM. Live music performed by the Nelson Broyal Blues Band, Scooter Pearce & Law by the Gun, beginning at 5:30 PM at the outside pavilion at the Blanco County Fairgrounds. We will have live music playing until midnight, with a break during the fireworks celebration.

There will be fun activities taking place, such as getting your picture taken with the Longhorn, and the Spangle Dangle staff will be giving away Glow in the Dark Swords, Necklaces and American Flags. We will also have food and drink vendors at the fairgrounds.

The 2013 Fourth of July Spangle Dangle Fireworks Program will begin at 9:15 PM at the outside pavilion facing the rodeo arena. There will be a reading of the Constitution (excerpts), Color Guard Presentation of the Flag, Pledge of Allegiance, Invocation, Song “Star Spangled Banner” and then, of course, the 2013 Fourth of July Spangle Dangle Fireworks Show. God Bless America.

The 2013 Fourth of July Spangle Dangle Celebration is sponsored by many businesses / organizations of Blanco County , Johnson City and Blanco. Give them a hip hip hurray for helping make the 2013 Spangle Dangle Event happen. We will announce all of our sponsors the week after the event. You can also help sponsor the event by giving donations at the gate when you arrive at the Blanco County Fairgrounds. For more information on the Spangle Dangle Celebration and view the list of sponsors, log onto the Spangle Dangle web site www.spangledangle.com. The web will continuously be updated for past, present and future events of Spangle Dangle. Happy Fourth of July from the members, staff and sponsors of Spangle Dangle.

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Pedernales Electric Cooperative welcomed 843 attendees at its annual meeting Saturday, June 22, in Kyle. The annual meeting is the Co-op’s largest and most important event, bringing together members from across PEC’s 8,100-square-mile service area to participate in the democratic cooperative election process and learn more about Cooperative business. This year members also had a chance to help their neighbors by donating blood and contributing to a food drive supporting an area food bank.

Members re-elected Chris Perry of Dripping Springs and elected James Oakley of Spicewood to serve on the Co-op’s Board of Directors. Perry, the District 4 incumbent, defeated Jimmy Skipton to retain his seat on the Board for a second three-year term. Oakley ran unopposed for the District 5 seat. Election results were announced at the conclusion of the annual meeting.

This year PEC is celebrating its 75th anniversary, and the annual meeting kicked off a listening tour during which the Co-op is encouraging members to share their memories of and aspirations for their Cooperative. During her remarks to the crowd, PEC Board President and District 3 Director Kathryn Scanlon acknowledged the Co-op’s history as well as its commitment to building its future based on the voices and interests of its members.

“The utility industry is changing rapidly, and we will need to change with it to effectively serve our members for another 75 years,” Scanlon said. “The strategic plan developed last year calls for a serious look at customer choice, energy efficiency, renewable energy, rates and other concerns.”

She also introduced John D. Hewa, who has been named the Cooperative’s new chief executive officer. Hewa most recently served as vice president of research, engineering and technical services for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

“I am invigorated to join a partnership of a cooperative and its members that has collectively set the highest aspirations for clean renewable energy, for making wise decisions about energy efficiency and demand response in the midst of tremendous growth here in central Texas,” Hewa said. “And I am very impressed by a cooperative and its employees that have set even higher marks for reliability and for ensuring affordability through a balanced energy portfolio.”

PEC’s interim Chief Executive Officer Frank Skube gave a report highlighting the Cooperative’s achievements during 2012.

“One of PEC's most remarkable achievements for 2012 continued to be outstanding service reliability,” Skube said. “It's not easy to stay at the top of any industry, but PEC employees deliver top-notch service year after year ….

“This reliability is a testament to the planning, construction and maintenance of a robust distribution system that together serves more than 247,000 meters along more than 17,400 miles of electric line.”

After the election results were announced, the meeting’s door prizes were drawn. Members winning door prizes were:

2009 Mercury Mariner hybrid SUV, retired from PEC service — Lon Harper of Canyon Lake

Energy Star flat-panel LED TV — Bonnie Lyons of Spring Branch

Energy Star front-loading washer and dryer — Melba Maley of Marble Falls

$500 Kohl’s gift cards (2 were awarded) — C. Moerbe of Dripping Springs and Donny Bokor of Buda.

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

President: District 7 Director Dr. Patrick Cox

Vice President: District 2 Director William D. Boggs

Secretary-treasurer: District 1 Director Cristi Clement

The next regularly scheduled Board meeting will be held Monday, July 15, at 10 a.m. at PEC’s E. Babe Smith Headquarters Building in Johnson City.

2013 PEC Board election results

At the conclusion of PEC’s June 22 annual meeting, Survey & Ballot Systems, which managed the election, announced that 18,332 total votes were cast, including 12,242 by mail, 5,777 online and 385 in person at the annual meeting.

Board of Directors election results were as follows:

District 4 Director

9,673 votes: Chris Perry

8,410 votes: Jimmy Skipton

District 5 Director

15,184 votes: James Oakley

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