Who would have guessed that Blanco would be home to two, and possibly three, Space Shuttle commanders/pilots? Terence T. “Tom” Henricks and Daniel C. Brandenstein each moved to Blanco unbeknownst to the other. Not only did they move to Blanco but they moved into the same neighborhood.

Working for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Colonel Henricks commanded two Space Shuttle missions and piloted two missions from 1991 to 1996. He was a member of three NASA Program Review Change Boards controlling annual expenditures in excess of 500 million dollars. He was responsible for transporting the orbiter across the country atop a 747 airliner. As an expert on landing systems he led the redesigns following the Challenger accident and the selection of overseas Shuttle landing sites. He was the first person to log over 1,000 hours as a Space Shuttle commander or pilot. In 1996 he flew the longest Space Shuttle flight up to that time, spending 16 days doing space studies sponsored by ten nations and five space agencies. He has logged 42 days, 18 hours and 38 minutes in space.

Captain Brandenstein piloted Space Shuttle Challenger on the first mission to conduct a night launch and night landing. The 6-day mission deployed a communications/meteorological satellite and conducted tests of the Shuttle’s Remote Manipulator system (1983). In 1985 he commanded Space Shuttle Discovery with an international crew. The 7-day mission deployed three communications satellites and deployed and retrieved a satellite that conducted X-ray astronomy observations.

In 1990 Captain Brandenstein commanded Space Shuttle Columbia on an 11-day mission that also deployed the Syncom IV Communications Satellite and returned to earth the Long Duration Exposure Facility and conducted numerous medical experiments. In 1992 he commanded the first flight of Space Shuttle Endeavor on a 9-day mission that retrieved and repaired the INTELSAT Communications Satellite and conducted Space Station assembly experiments.

It is impossible to enumerate all the background, experience and qualifications of these two gentlemen, but here are a few: Henricks joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in various states, England, and Iceland. Following USAF Test Pilot School he commanded the 57th Fighter Weapons Wing Detachment at Edwards Air Force Base and did experimental test pilot flight evaluations of the F-16. He was the first to fire an AIM-9 missile from an F-16C.

Colonel Henricks evaluated weapons and developed tactics that were employed with success during the Gulf War. He was a finalist twice for the Air Force’s world renowned Thunderbirds precision flight team. Honors include the Distinguished Flying Cross, NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, two Defense Meritorious Service Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals, four NASA Space Flight Medals, Bell Helicopter Chairman’s Award of Excellence, induction into the Ohio Veteran’s Hall of Fame, and an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from Heidelberg College, Vaughn College, and The Defiance College. He retained Top Secret Clearance through 2005. He has made 749 parachute jumps and holds a Master Parachutist rating. He has flown 30 different types of aircraft logging over 6,000 hours of flying time. He has an FAA Commercial Pilot rating.

Captain Brandenstein served with the U.S. Navy Flight Training Command and was designated a Naval Aviator. He completed two combat deployments to Southeast Asia accruing 192 combat missions and 400 aircraft carrier landings. He led various squadron divisions that supported combat flight operations. As a Test Pilot and Program Manager he conducted developmental flight tests of classified electronic warfare systems. He also led a maintenance team that assured operational readiness of 14 A-6 aircraft and associated ground support equipment for a deployed fleet squadron.

Captain Brandenstein has received the Iven C. Kincheloe Award from the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, the Haley Space Flight Award, the Yuri Gagarin Gold Medal, the Flight Achievement Award, two NASA Distinguished Service Medals, two Outstanding Leadership Medals, four NASA Space Flight Medals, was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2003, named Distinguished Alumnus of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, received an Honorary Doctor of Science from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, an Honorary Doctor of Engineering Degree from Milwaukee School of Engineering, and 35 Department of Defense, U.S. Navy, and Foreign Medals.

After his service with the United States Air Force and NASA Colonel Henricks has served in the private sector: The Timken Company as Director of Sales and Marketing-Aerospace and Super Precision; Textron Inc. as Vice President-Government Business Development, Deputy Director of V-22 Program, and Director of Program Management, Textron Information Services; McGraw-Hill, President of “Aviation Week” and led the first U.S. media visit to all Chinese manned space facilities; is presently the President of Henricks Enterprises, Inc., Blanco, Texas, where he is a sought after consultant for aerospace and media projects and services. He sits on several non-profit boards. He is also a partner with Newport Board Group (Dallas & Central Texas) and is a Six Sigma black belt, owns and operates a biplane, is a public speaker and entrepreneur.

Since leaving NASA, Captain Brandenstein has worked for IBM as Special Assistant to the Vice President where he led the activities of the astronaut team and support staff. He conducted Congressional visits and initiated new business in Russia. He was Director for Quality Assurance and Director of Program Development for Loral Space Information Systems. For Lockheed Martin Space Operations he was Vice-President for Customer Service and Vice President and Program Manager of Mission Support Operations Contract. He retired in 2012 from the United Space Alliance where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. This was a $1.7B company with 10,000 employees providing services to NASA’s Space Shuttle and International Space Station and Exploration programs. Following the completion of the Space Shuttle program he led the successful transition to a smaller 3000 employee company.

Read Article.

More from Features.

AUSTIN — Maryland is the next state in Gov. Rick Perry’s sights. He’s already been to California, Connecticut, Missouri and New York to court businesses, hoping they will pull up stakes and head to the Lone Star State.

Perry announced on Sept. 12 that he would be in Maryland on Sept. 18 to make his pitch. To prepare Maryland for his arrival, a 60-second radio ad and 30-second TV ad are running in several markets. “The ads showcase the opportunities and freedom available to families and businesses thanks to Texas’ smart fiscal policies,” the governor’s office stated, adding, the nearly $500,000 television and radio ad buys and the governor’s trip are paid for by “TexasOne” and “no state tax dollars were to be used for his travel and accommodations, or for the ad buy.”

TexasOne, according to information at texasone.com, raises money to fund “special events, outreach programs, and other exciting and highly visible marketing and communications programs. These programs are directed at a targeted audience of corporate decision makers and site selectors.”

An excerpt of what Perry says in one advertisement is this: “Unfortunately, your governor has made Maryland the tax and fee state, where businesses and families are paying some of the highest taxes in America. Since taking office in 2007, he's approved 40 new taxes and fees, projected to cost you $9.5 billion more through 2014. That’s a job killer. …”

The Baltimore Sun, in a Sept. 12 news article about Perry’s planned visit, quoted a spokeswoman for Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley. She referred to the visit as a “job-poaching expedition.”

Justice Hecht gets promoted

Gov. Perry on Sept. 10 announced the appointment of Justice Nathan L. Hecht of Austin as chief justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, effective Oct. 1.

Hecht, set to serve as the court's 27th chief justice, succeeds Wallace B. Jefferson, who announced his resignation earlier this month.

Hecht was first elected to the Supreme Court of Texas in 1988 and is the senior justice on the court. He has won re-election four times. He previously served as a justice of the Texas 5th Court of Appeals and as judge of the 95th Judicial District Court in Dallas County.

Tax revenue trend continues

Texas Comptroller Susan Combs on Sept. 11 announced the state sales tax revenue in August was $2.39 billion, up 2.1 percent compared to August 2012.

“The latest monthly gains were led by sectors such as construction and the restaurant industry,” Combs said. “For the recently ended fiscal year, state sales tax revenue totaled $25.8 billion, an increase of 7.2 percent from fiscal 2012. Both business and consumer spending contributed to the gains for the year.”

Combs said she would send cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts their September local sales tax allocations totaling $575 million, up 2.8 percent compared to September 2012.

Election ID obtainable

Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, and election identification certificates are now available, only for voters who do not already have a required form of photo identification. There is no fee for the certificate.

On Sept. 13, the Texas Department of Public Safety announced that a select group of 50 Texas Department of Public Safety offices will be open to accept applications for an election ID certificate from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays until Nov. 2. For more information, go to dps.texas.gov or call (512) 424-2600.

Robotic tuna checks hull

A six-foot-long robotic fish designed to detect contraband hidden on a ship’s hull is being tested on the hull of the Battleship Texas, the museum ship docked at the San Jacinto State Historic site in La Porte.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department on Sept. 11 reported that the fish, going by the name of BIOSwimmer, “is a highly maneuverable, unmanned underwater vehicle that is equipped with a sophisticated suite of sensors and embodies the natural shape of a tuna.”

A test team, the agency said, planted packages “of mock contraband of varying sizes in tight, hard-to-reach spaces on the battleship’s hull and putting the BIOSwimmer through the paces to see if it can successfully detect them.”

Read Article.

More from Regional News.

Betty Jean died September 16, 2013 at Ghost Creek Ranch in Blanco, Texas. She was born July 2, 1925 in Oklahoma City to Col. Clint T. Johnson and Ruth Ester (Smith) Johnson. Her big brother was Bernard T. Johnson.

Betty attended the University of Oklahoma where she met and eventually married Dale J. Patterson, a dashing young aviation cadet in 1944.

After WWII, Dale and Betty, with their two young children, Michael Dale and Patricia Ann, began a 40 year adventure in the international oil business. Over the years the family moved from Oklahoma to Texas, then on to Venezuela, Canada and Scotland, with many side trips back to Houston which eventually became home.

Betty Jean is survived by her son Michael and wife Terri. Daughter Patricia Ann and husband Randy. Three granddaughters Tracy Chiari and husband Romano, Kerri Taylor and husband David, Becki Hayes and husband Mike. Her great-grandchildren Austin Falwell, Madeline Falwell, Erin Chiari, Ryan Chiari, Travis Taylor, Rebecca Taylor, Sarah Taylor, Eden Hayes, and Everleigh Hayes.

Betty wanted to send very special thanks to Angels for Elders, Wimberly, especially her caregivers Blanca, Flora, Margie, and Paula. We are forever grateful for the guidance and love shown by the staff at Hill Country Memorial Hospice.

There will be a private family memorial at Ghost Creek Ranch. Betty asked that in lieu of flowers donations to Hill Country Memorial Hospice are most appreciated. hillcountrymemorial.org/giving, or P.O. Box 835, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, or to the charity of your choice.

Read Article.

More from Obituaries.

September 17, 1976

September 21,1988

Community Effort Assists Hurricane Gilbert Evacuees

The Blanco area was spared the destruction of Hurricane Gilbert, and yet blessed with much needed rain. It appeared to rain in patches with most of the area receiving well over an inch and possibly up to three inches.

Most evacuees abandoned the coastal area for refuge in the Hill Country spare bedrooms of relatives and local motels filled quickly.

City of Blanco and Blanco County emergency units set up their EOC’s on Thursday in a standby mode in case we had flooding or tornadoes. The Old Blanco Courthouse group allowed the Blanco EOC to have a convenient information place.

Blanco ISD allowed the use of the gym should evacuees need shelter. City hall manned the phones and would have opened the Senior Citizens Hall for them should it be needed.

The nursing homes offered shelter should the ill need a place. Dr. Weaver and Dr. Vause were on standby and the emergency room at the family clinic was made available.

Bob Bindseil, president of the Chamber of Commerce, was on standby with members of their organization to man the shelter at the gym. Word was received from the boy scouts, church groups, and many individuals offering food, bedding, and assistance.

Blanco Emergency Management set the Municipal Building at 5th and Pecan as the local EOC where the BVFD manned the radios and phone with people ready to roll as did the BVAC sit and wait by their units round the clock should the need arise.

Blanco is a very caring community. In time of need it shows.

September 18-24, This Week in History

September 18, 1793 - George Washington lays the cornerstone to the United States Capitol building.

September 22, 1862 - President Abraham Lincoln issues a preliminary Emancipation Proclamation which sets a date for the freedom of more than 3 million black slaves in the United States and recasts the Civil War as a fight against slavery.

September 18, 1870 - Old Faithful Geyser is observed and named by Henry D. Washburn during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition to Yellowstone.

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from Remember When.

We would like to thank the community of Blanco, Blanco EMS, Blanco Police Department, Air Life, surrounding law enforcement agencies and members of the Blanco/Comfort ISD family for their help, thoughts, and prayers after last week’s football game vs Comfort.

I would like to also thank the “moms” that helped my wife during this stressful time.

A special thanks to those who participated in the prayer circle following Phillip’s injury. It is through the power of the prayer circle that we believe Phillip was able to make a speedy recovery.

Unfortunately, Phillip will not be playing in any future games. However, he will be travelling with the Panthers.

I also would like to thank the First Baptist Church for the thank you prayer Sunday the 8th.

We love you all and God Bless You.

Phil 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.”

Edward, Laura, Ed Jr, and Phillip Alvarado

Blanco, Texas

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from Announcements.

Blanco resident Ryan Perkins donated 18 inches of hair to Locks of Love. He hopes to encourage others to do the same. Ryan donates in honor of his Grandmothers, Mary Stauffer and Marion Perkins, who both passed from this life due to Cancer. Sometimes there is a wonderful reason behind the long hair that others do not see. Thank you to Cut n Curls Dalia Zamora for a great cut!

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from Community News.

There is an new game brewing up on the north side of town. The Blanco County WW2 Museum is preparing to open later this month on a limited basis. The WW2 Museum is the latest component in what is developing as a Museum Mall, with the anchor being the Buggy Barn Museum. The Museum is connected with the Nimitz Museum in Fredericksburg and the Texas Military Museum in Austin and will likely increase local visitors, which will help in promoting Blanco County as a history and heritage destination.

The Blanco County WW2 Museum covers three areas: it is the home of LST 344 - the "USS Blanco County," it offers a period view of the County and the citizens who served, and it provides a unique chronology of the European Theater of Operations in WW2 designed to supplement the Nimitz Museum where the focus is on the Pacific Theater. The connection with the other Museums and historic sites will increase visitation and help put Blanco on the map as a place that values its history and heritage.

Rick Sebenoler is acting Director/Curator of the WW2 Museum. "We've put together a pretty unique presentation of the war in Europe. Now we need to add in the local flavor and are looking for the stories, artifacts, and memories of local veterans who served in the war. Our intent is to tell the story of that time from the view of the folks of Blanco County. We're looking for any connections with the veterans who served during that time."

The WW2 Museum is a component of the Buggy Barn Museum Complex, which is a 501c(3) non profit corporation. The Blanco Chamber of Commerce, Blanco Retreat LLC, and Pioneer Museum are currently sponsoring the site. Their goal is to build a coalition among the Museums, the library, the BISD, and the community as a whole to promote the history of the area.

Buggy Barn Founder Dennis Moore summed it up: "We've got a wealth of historical resources, we just have not done a good job of shining a light on what’s here. With every passing day we lose a little more of our history here, and we need to record as much as we can, while we can. This WW2 Museum will help get us the additional exposure and connections to help that happen." The Museum's website is http://ww2blancomuseum.com/, which is building up as an educational resource for students of that era.

The WW2 Museum will begin conducting tours of the facility later this month with the intent of involving the community in the effort to promote Blanco as a place that values its history and heritage. The museum will be open to Blanco County residents on a limited basis as it continues to build out this year.

Read Article.

2 photos attached to this article.

More from Features.

Congratulations to Mary Beth Bueno as our 2013 Photo Contest Winner! Her photo will be in the Blanco Library’s 2014 calendar, as will other picture submissions. If you submitted a picture for our contest, be sure to pick up one of our calendars because you will be in our Honorable Mention section! Also we would like to say a big thank you to our local business sponsors who helped to fund this calendar.

Be sure to stop by any time this month to see the Tejanitos’ Art Display in our large conference room. Each child made beautiful paintings and the exhibit only lasts through the end of September!

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

Recently Added Bestsellers: Ever After by Kim Harrison, Frost Burned by Patricia Briggs, Summer Girls by Mary Alice Monroe, and The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman.

Read Article.

More from Community News.

This is a continuation from last week’s article on the ‘Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings’. Here is the web’s link http://www.blanconews.com/news/112251/ if you missed it.

The guidelines were initially developed in 1977 to help property owners, developers and federal managers to apply ‘The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation’ during the project planning stage by providing general design and technical recommendations.

A case-by-case determination is best accomplished by seeking assistance from qualified historic preservation professionals in the very early stages of the project planning. Unlike the Standards, the Guidelines are not codified as program requirements.

The following information pertain to historic buildings of all materials, construction types, sizes and occupancy; and apply to exterior and interior work; as well as new additions and the buildings site and environment. They are presented in a “Recommended” vs “Not Recommended” format.

The guidelines begins with the most basic and least invasive approaches that will help the project achieve the desired goal, before considering work that may involve more change and potentially greater impact on the historic character of the building is maintained during any upgrades.

The Planning Stage

#1 Recommended: Forming an integrated sustainability team when working on a large project that includes a preservation professional to ensure that the character and integrity of the historic building is maintained during any upgrades.

Not Recommended: Omitting preservation expertise from a sustainability project team.

# 2 Recommended: Analyzing the condition of inherently-sustainable features of the historic building, such as shutters, storm windows, awnings, porches, vents, roof monitors, skylights, light wells, transoms and naturally-lit corridors, and including them in energy audits and energy modeling, before planning upgrades.

Not Recommended: Ignoring inherently-sustainable features of the existing historic building when creating energy models and planning upgrades.

# 3 Recommended: Identifying ways to reduce energy use, such as installing fixtures and appliances that conserve resources, including energy-efficient lighting or energy-efficient lamps in existing light fixtures, low-flow plumbing fixtures, sensors and timers that control water flow, lighting and temperature, before undertaking more invasive treatments that may negatively impact the historic building.

# 4 Recommended: Prioritizing sustainable improvements, beginning with minimally invasive treatments that are least likely to damage historic building material.

Not Recommended: Beginning work with substantive or irreversible treatments without first considering and implementing less invasive measures.

The Maintenance Stage

#1 Recommended: Maintaining historic buildings regularly to preserve historic fabric and maximize operational efficiency.

Not Recommended: Delaying maintenance treatments which may result in the loss of historic building fabric or decrease the performance of existing systems or features.

#2 Recommended: Retaining and repairing durable historic building materials.

Not Recommended: Removing durable historic building materials and replacing them with materials perceived as more sustainable; for instance, removing historic heart pine flooring and replacing it with new bamboo flooring.

#3 Recommended: Using environmentally-friendly cleaning products that are compatible with historic finishes.

Not Recommended: Using cleaning products potentially harmful to both historic finishes and the environment.

#4 Recommended: Using sustainable products and treatments, such as low VOC paints and adhesives and lead-safe paint removal methods, as much as possible, when rehabilitating a historic building.

Read Article.

More from Features.

Blanco Performing Arts is delighted to present Outside the Music Box, the fourth season of stellar classical music concerts in the beautiful Uptown Blanco Ballroom. The new season promises to expand musical horizons with passionate and energetic artists who move beyond the familiar musical box with sounds that inspire, delight, and often surprise.

The season opens on Saturday, October 26 at 7:30 pm with the captivating pianist, Washington Garcia. Now from Texas, Dr. Garcia has performed in his home country, Ecuador, throughout South America, in Asia, and the USA, and charmed audiences last year at his Austin Symphony performance of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1.

Audience favorite REVEL, the classical band, returns for a special holiday concert on Thursday, December 19. Combine this concert with reservations at the fine Uptown Blanco Restaurant as a gift to your special friends and family.

The Zenith Quintet, four saxophones and piano, on February 1 will truly move listeners outside of the musical box. Their concert, Games On, includes music by Baroque composer Vivaldi, Argentine tango composer Piazzolla, and their own arrangement of video game themes.

The Texas Guitar Quartet on March 22 brings the talented international contest prize winning artists with their own arrangements of classical pieces and new works. Expect an exhilarating performance!

Blanco's own Julia Pautz returns on Sunday, June 1 at 3:00 with Austin pianist, Maimy Fong, for an afternoon of something old and something new. Declared a "genuine virtuoso" by the Dallas Morning News, Julia’s concert is a perfect ending to thinking outside the box.

Season tickets are now on sale both on the website www.blancoperformingarts.com or by calling 830-385-1173. A season ticket purchase amounts to receiving one concert for free. Senior and student discounts also apply.

Read Article.

More from Community News.

And He saith unto them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19 KJV)

A good time of laughing, fun, and fellowship was had by the men's group of Abundant Grace Fellowship Saturday morning ,September 14th.

It was challenging, standing alone on the "casting" green - just a man and his fishing rod -trying to float a lure into the four buckets spaced apart from 35 to 65 feet. Besides battling the elements (well, actually, it was calm and sunny), one also had to endure the mental harassment of his "Brothers," while he attempted to cast under par.

Being much harder than it looked, we found ourselves having to dig down deep for a steady hand and a firm - yet gentle - cast. Avoiding grass hazards, tree traps, and unpredictable crazy casts (I suspect some on purpose), we courageously persevered through the morning.

It was a great day indeed.

Some of the lessons we learned include: 1. Don't let the preacher lead the prayer before a competition he is involved in. 2. Don't lean back in your chair. 3. Wearing your hat backwards does not help. 4. Don't let Doug hold your crutch. 5. Don't bet against a guy with a cane.

Next meeting is Oct. 26th. More details to follow.

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from Community News.

Olga Palomino, Activities Director at LBJ Medical Center and Nursing Home, celebrated her birthday on Monday, September 16. Volunteers from Blanco brought smiles to all the elderly with cake and treats. With them was "Mr. RIGHT," Texas Farm Bureau's Ross McCormick, who brought many smiles to all the ladies! Volunteers Tania Almanza, Jennifer Case, and Vanessa Gomez came and helped out too!

From L-R: Tania Almanza, Olga Palomino and Ross McCormick.

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from Announcements.

The American Legion Memorial Highway Post 352 & its Auxiliary are gearing up for the 6th annual Veterans Parade on Saturday November 9, 2013 at 10:00AM in beautiful downtown Blanco, Texas.

They are very excited to honor our veterans and active military with in this parade. If you are a veteran, they would like to invite you to come out and ride on our “Veterans Float of Honor”. They would also like to say Thank You to each and every one of you for your service.

The American Legion believes this year the parade will be bigger and better than ever. Watch the paper for more information to come. If you are interested in being in the parade or would like to be involved and help support our veterans please call or email Roxanna Avants, cell 512-627-0584 or roxannaavants@yahoo.com. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Read Article.

More from Community News.

Dear Editor,

The "Hill Country Heartbeat" EMS fundraiser on Saturday September 14 was successful due to our generous sponsors. Thank you.

Heart Stopping: Blanco National Bank, Methodist Stone Oak Hospital

Elevated Heart Rate: Blanco Auto Parts, Mike and Reba Neagle

Shooting for Recovery: BlackBrush Oil and Gas, LP and TexStar Midstream Services, LP, H. Olsen Limited Partnership, Kaler Energy Corp., Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP, Real Ale Brewing Company, Seitel, Inc.

Normal Heart Rate: Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C., Blanco A/C, Electrical & Plumbing, Cattleman's National Bank, Crofts-Crow Funeral Home, EMSAR Of Texas, Kirk & Sheila Felps, Mike Barnes Group, Inc., New Braunfels Welders Supply, Inc, Security State Bank and Trust, Sam-Mar Ranch Realty, LLC, Thornton-Carlisle Operating Company, LLC, Vallone Real Estate, VFIS of Texas, Lowe’s

Submitted by Cyndy Hounsell for the Hill Country Heartbeat

Read Article.

More from Opinion.

September 13, 2013

To The Editor:

Last night I attended a disturbingly sad meeting. A small but intense group of genteel veterans (U.S. Veterans, mind you) and their lovely spouses were gathered together to discuss the “why” behind B.I.S.D.’s current attempt to EVICT Blanco’s American Legion Post from its OWN sixty-five year old building? Allow me to quote Monday Night Football, “C’mon Man”!

Q: How can one respected and civic-minded community icon become embroiled in a lawsuit against another respected and civic-minded community icon? It’s sad! Sorry! Sick! And…Shameful! “C’mon Man”! Last night our gathering of ‘Fine Folks’ were told that legal expenses for this battle over the “little old building” could easily exceed $100,000…for BISD alone! Citizens…Allow THAT to soak in! Q: $100,000 (and mounting) in legal fees spent for what purpose? Q: WHO made such an “empty headed” vacuous decision? Q: Who decided that kicking Blanco’s American Legion Post out of THEIR building would serve ANY useful or worthwhile purpose? Q: More importantly “how” and “why” were such decisions reached? There are decent citizens who want to know. “We The People” (particularly those of Blanco) have a right to know. These kinds of matters are never decided in a vacuum. Someone, somewhere, thought this was the correct thing to do; “WHO and WHY?” To date, the American Legion Post has been unable to obtain answers to those two overriding questions.

Once upon a time…I honorably served on the BISD school board. Once upon a time I honorably served as a member of this American Legion Post. And once upon a time I honorably served our country; I am a veteran. Personally, I see NO valid reason for the American Legion Post to be forced into relocating. This is a fight that should never be fought. I say to BISD; “Call off the dogs of war…tend to the business of educating our children.” I also say; “C’mon Man!” REALLY!

Jim Pepper: Captain, United States Marine Corps; Veteran of Foreign War; Citizen of Blanco

Read Article.

More from Opinion.

I encourage you to read Matt 18:21-35 carefully. We find in this story a very important teaching on forgiveness. This must be considered when it comes to answered prayer. We may not be receiving answers to our prayers, because we are not forgiving. It is a very real hindrance.

We are told in 1Co 11:1 to follow Paul as he follows Christ. So, how is God concerning forgiveness? (Psa 86:5) “For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” (Jer 31:34) “....... for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Luk 23:34) “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” We see here our God is a forgiving God. We are to also be forgiving.

We are instructed clearly by Jesus on the importance of forgiveness in praying (Mt 6:12, 14-15, Mk 11:25-26). We cannot expect our prayers to be answered if we live in unforgiveness, bitterness, and hatred. Unforgiveness will torment us (Mt 18:34). It will make us physically sick, emotionally sick, mentally sick, & spiritually sick. Besides the effects on us, it affects those around us. We can become envious, bitter, angry, depressed, and miserable to live with. Most importantly, unforgiveness is a sin. As per the story in Mt 18:21-35, we have no right not to forgive since we have been forgiven everything - an unpayable debt - by God

We are told to forgive as Christ did. (Eph 4:32) “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” (Col 3:13) “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”

So how did Christ forgive us? Unconditionally and completely. Rom 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Psa 85:2) “Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah.” (Col 2:13) “And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;” (1Jn 2:12) “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.” (Eph 1:7) “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;” (Rom 4:7) “Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.”

There are two types of forgiveness. Restorative forgiveness (reconciliation), and general forgiveness (intercessory). Let me explain. Just because we forgive someone, doesn’t mean we have to be reconciled to them. Restorative forgiveness only comes when the offending party confesses, repents, and is truly sorry for their actions. For instance, the above paragraph lists verses talking about Gods forgiveness towards us. That is His unconditional part. However, it does not profit us if we do not repent (Act 2:38, 3:19, 26:18) and in humility ask for it. The same goes in our relationships with people. Jesus explained this in Lk 17:3-4.

Another example: If I have hurt my wife‘s feelings, she offers me general forgiveness in prayer. She prays as Jesus did on the cross, “Father, forgive him”. She does not take up the offense. She refuses to be bitter. However, restorative forgiveness (reconciliation) will only come when I take responsibility for my actions, repent, and in humility ask her to forgive me. As a Christian, she is to forgive when I do so. By the way, a flippant “Well, I’m sorry!” doesn’t count. That’s not true repentance. Though our covenant relationship was still intact, our fellowship was broken until I repented.

This is the meaning of 1John9. Judicially, we are spiritually forgiven of our sins when we are born again. However, after salvation, we still sin in soul and body. When we do so, we ask God’s forgiveness, so our fellowship may be restored on our end. I would term this parental forgiveness. My child doesn’t cease to be my child when they sin, but they hurt our fellowship on their end, until they, in humility, ask forgiveness. When they do this, I forgive and fellowship is restored. God does this with us.

We must accept responsibility for what we have done. We must in humility repent and ask forgiveness. We also must never refuse to give forgiveness when it is asked for in truth and humility. We do unto others, and we would have them do to us. Take it to the bank: If you are harboring unforgiveness, your prayer life is hindered. You are cutting off the faucet of God on your end. You are also allowing the Enemy to come in an create havoc in your life. Get rid of unforgiveness! But how, you ask?

1. Understand that forgiveness is a choice, an act of the will. Don’t go by feelings. Feelings will be healed over time as you continue to choose forgiveness. 2. Understand that forgiving someone does not mean you are saying what they did was ok. It does not justify their actions. 3. Do not allow thoughts of the hurtful action to replay in your head. When they pop up, cast them down immediately, pray for and bless the person if they are alive (Mt 5:44). If they are deceased, just thank God that you are forgiven, and for giving you the grace to forgive. With thoughts come emotions. If you want the painful emotions to stop, you must refuse to allow the past hurts to take up even a few seconds in your brain. You have the power, by the grace of God, to do this. 5. This is just a practical work, but it may help. Write down all those nagging hurts that you are refusing to forgive. Purposefully forgive each one. Then burn the paper, and never look back. Forget those things which are behind as Paul did. Forget the past! Don’t let your future be ruined because of your past! Put your foot down, and say “No more!”. Until next time, rejoice in The Lord!

Read Article.

More from Focus on Faith.

On February 23, 1836 the dictator of Mexico, Antonio López de Santa Ana, arrived with an army of 5,000 men. When Bowie fell ill, Travis, with 186 men, assumed total command of the Texan forces. Desperately he wrote for aid: "I call on you in the name of liberty, of patriotism & everything dear to the American character to come to our aid…. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier." His last note was to the friend caring for his son: "Take care of my little boy…. If this country should be lost, and I should perish, he will have nothing but the proud recollection that he is the son of a man who died for his country." If this is all that he had left, what a proud heritage, what an honor.

In the end this is what draws many to the Christ. As Jesus said, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself" (John12:32), and again, "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). If one has nothing left but the One who died for his sins, he is most blessed. If he has everything but this, he is poor indeed. Come and learn about the gift that changes everything!

To request a free non-denominational Bible correspondence course or to ask a Bible question call 830-833-4884 or email bcc102@gmail.com - No personal contact will be made unless requested. You may now also request a free 70 page book entitled, 'The Good News From God'.

Read Article.

More from Focus on Faith.

What a question, right? Do we trust God with our life? The very life He gave us! Do we give it back to Him and ask Him to lead us and guide us?

Do we take all our plans and ideas to Him and ask Him how to put them together so they will be successful & prosper us? The very same ideas He probably gave to us in the first place; do we ask Him for His guidance and blessing?

This is Proverbs 16 -“1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord. 2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits. 3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.”

See there? Each morning we should go to God and tell Him our plans for the day. How easily we forget to include God in our plans, and then wonder what went wrong with them.

We worry about what’s going on around us in the world today, while we are actually seeing prophecy being fulfilled, but look!

“4 The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. 5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.”

We can trust in God’s Word. His ways are higher! His thoughts, much wiser! And it’s true. He even used Judas for His plans!

“6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil. 7 When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

Some days I go to bed thinking, I’ve flunked another test, knowing God will give it to me again someday! But check this out:

“8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right. 9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”

Now verse 9 just said we plan our ways, but God directs our steps and makes them sure. Some people call it luck when they are in the right place at the right time, but my friends, here is proof that IT IS NOT LUCK. God intervenes for us, and makes our steps sure! PRAISE GOD!

“10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment. 11 A just weight and balance are the Lord's: all the weights of the bag are his work.

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness. 13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it. 15 In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.”

Proverbs 8:16 “By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.”

Psalm 22:28 “For the kingdom is the Lord's: and he is the governor among the nations.”

Isaiah 24:21 “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth.” KJV

Proverbs 16 continued.

“16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! 17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. 18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. 20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.

He that handles a matter wisely (by whose wisdom? God's!) and trusts in the LORD, HAPPY IS HE!!!

"21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. 22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly. 23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips. 24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."

"PLEASANT WORDS ARE... HEALTH TO THE BONES"!!!

"25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."

Our ways lead to death!!! God's ways lead to happiness & life!

"26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him. 27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire. 28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends. 29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good. 30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass. 31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. 32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. 33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.”

There is so much to glean from Proverbs. What about verse 33?

“The whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.” God IS and God DOES cause us to prosper, and receive the inheritance of Christ Jesus, when we believe in Jesus and turn to God and His WISDOM, and HIS WORD, and make decisions based on it, instead of the way of the world. God can move mountains for us! Praise HIM!

Read Article.

More from Focus on Faith.

This past week, 13 members of the Blanco FFA Chapter attended the annual Hill District FFA Leadership Camp in Fredericksburg. While there, over 150 FFA members from 14 schools across the Hill Country participated in leadership building activities in addition to completing business associated with FFA activities for the upcoming school year.

BHS Junior, Logan Dodd, served as one of the camp’s planners and workshop presenters and is the current Hill District FFA Vice-President. Other Blanco FFA members in attendance included: Payton Savarino, Kyle Sauceda, Megan Wier, Rance Dollahite, Jessica Sevilla, Jamie McClinton, Brenna Wallace, Molly Edmondson, Paige Green, Jacob Robinson, Garrett Seales and Montana Wiseman. Advisors for the Blanco FFA are Felice and Jason Marek.

Read Article.

1 photo attached to this article.

More from School.

The name Andrew Ripp is being spoken by students from Round Rock to San Antonio to Blanco, Texas. Students will have the opportunity to hear the magic of Andrew’s music here in Blanco, Texas on Wednesday, September 25th, at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Blanco. The concert is free.

According to his publicist, Andrew’s career began in 2005. Since then Andrew “continues to create music that pushes the boundaries of genre stereotypes, blending the energetic beats of pop music into a soul culture and adding the depth and groove of soul music and pop culture.”

Andrew has an amazing voice and he is able to combine lyrics in such a way that creates a very motivational experience for listeners. Blanco student Carson K. says, “His songs are amazing and I connect with a lot of them!” Blanco Young Life leader Tucker Morrow adds, “I would say Andrew is one of the most talented musicians I have ever seen, and puts on as good a live show as anyone I've ever heard.”

Andrew Ripp’s album She Remains the Same debuted at #1 on the Singer/Songwriter chart on iTunes in 2010. Others songs have been featured on the Billboard 100 charts and on American Idol. In recent years Andrew has moved to Nashville and became known as a songwriter as well as an artist and musician. Won’t Let Go is Andrew’s newest album, and of it Andrew says, “I did the work, and I gave it everything I have.” Andrew is proud of the hard work that created his latest album, and he says, “This album is rooted in the idea of hope and love, and it is meant to speak life. Audiences can hear the depth of those messages in every lyric; in every note.”

Andrew Ripp is also a touring artist, and many local students have come to love his music by hearing him perform at Young Life Camp at Crooked Creek Ranch in Colorado. From Dru R., “I like Andrew Ripp’s music. It made an impact on me at Young Life Camp and really helps me when I'm feeling down. I listen to it and it brings back good memories from camp when I first heard his voice and first started to accept Jesus as my savior.”

Young Life Leader Page Morrow also believes Andrew shares effectively through his music, “What I have to say about Andrew is that he does an awesome job of sharing his testimony through his music. The way he presents the gospel through song is evidence of the impact Jesus has had in his life!”

Blanco student Jamie M. also shares what Andrew’s music means to her. “Andrew's music tells his testimony and the love he has for The Lord. Listening to him play and tell his story is clear that God can do amazing things. He is very talented and by far my favorite musician!!”

Andrew’s music continues to draw a diverse and increasingly larger audience of music aficionados. Blanco student Payton S. summarizes her appreciation for Andrew’s music as well. “Andrew Ripp's songs are so easy to relate to! Not only does he tell you the stories behind them, but you can listen to his songs and match them to your own story! He is amazing and I can't wait for him to get here!”

Like Payton and others, we hope that you can’t wait to hear Andrew Ripp in concert too! Please come out and be our guests for this life changing event on Wednesday, September 25th at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Blanco, Texas.

Read Article.

More from Community News.