Millions of Americans will be preparing meals and traveling throughout the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The American Red Cross has safety tips for the kitchen and for the highway.

“More home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year,” said Kristy Vandenberg, Chapter Executive for the Hill Country Chapter of the American Red Cross. The week of Thanksgiving is also one of the busiest travel periods. We want people to arrive at their destinations, enjoy time with their loved ones and make it home safely.”

COOKING SAFETY

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and related injuries. Follow these safety tips:

Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the cooking area.

Clean all cooking surfaces to prevent grease buildup.

Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food. Turn burners off if leaving the kitchen.

Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby. Use it to cover the pan if it catches on fire.

Place turkey fryers outside and away from the house, deck and garage.

TRAVEL SAFETY

Vehicles should be in good working order before heading out. Remember to:

Pack emergency supplies like blankets, water and snacks, flashlight and first aid kit.

Fill the fuel tank, check air pressure in tires and top-off windshield fluid.

Buckle up and obey all traffic signs.

Avoid distractions while driving like using mobile phones to talk or text.

Designate a driver who won’t be drinking whenever alcohol is served.

The Red Cross has a variety of emergency supplies and first aid kits available at www.redcrossstore.org.

KNOW HOW TO TREAT EMERGENCIES People can learn how to respond to emergencies by downloading the free American Red Cross First Aid App. Users receive instant access to expert advice whenever and wherever they need it. The app is available in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store by searching for American Red Cross or by going to www.redcross.org/mobileapps.

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More from Features.

Pedernales Electric Cooperative will accept member comments via its website on proposed changes to the Cooperative’s Bylaws and Conflict of Interest policy. The comment period began Nov. 19 and will run through Dec. 9, 2013.

The proposed changes to PEC’s Bylaws include:

Revising the qualifications for eligibility to run for and serve on the PEC Board of Directors.

Calling for a committee of members to review and determine whether Director candidates meet qualifications, rather than having PEC management and directors serve those roles.

Providing new mechanisms for filling vacancies on the PEC Board.

The proposed changes to the Co-op’s Conflict of Interest policy will apply to both PEC’s Board and management. These changes include:

Clarifying what a potential conflict of interest is, and that potential conflict, not just actual conflicts, need to be disclosed under the policy.

Underscoring the legal duty of Directors to candidly provide information under the policy.

Changing the language of the required certification form to first-person, emphasizing that the official signing the form personally affirms its terms.

“The Co-op has an established tradition of soliciting and integrating feedback from our members,” said PEC Chief Executive Officer John D. Hewa. “We encourage our members to go to www.pec.coop/comments and offer their comments and suggestions on these proposed changes.”

Member comments and suggestions also were solicited during the Co-op’s 75 Days of Listening Tour this summer. The Board at its November meeting on Monday also heard a summary report on the Cooperative’s 75th anniversary events, and this week will receive a detailed report of all member comments and suggestions gathered during the tour and at PEC events.

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More from Community News.

By Debbie Vallone-Homeier, A Paragon Builders/Vallone Real Estate

Home Warranties are important even on a brand new home. There are 2 basic types of home warranties you can get on a new home. One is through the builder themselves, and the other through a home warranty company. Most contractors will give you a warranty on their work that follows the old TRCC (Texas Residential Construction Commission) guidelines. Some will even give you the new home warranties through a Warranty company. Most contractors will even come back if you call them within 1 year and 3 months if you need a fix on those items covered under a one year warranty. But there are some contractors that will not give you a warranty. OR better yet, will not come back one day past the year you are out of warranty. ASK, those contractors what they cover and how they handle warranties when you interview them.

There are exceptions in the appliances that might be put in. These warranties will need to be addressed with the manufacture. However, if the connections were done by a contractor, you might have some issues here to address.

Once upon a time, there was a protection by the state called TRCC (Texas Residential Construction Commission) and they had some really good guidelines to follow on a new home. However, due to some individuals complaining about fairness, the organization was dissolved. Too bad, because it did help keep some contractors honest and help protect the people. A contractor had to register their jobs. Now without the existence of this organization, everyone is own their own. You should get a written warranty from the contractor you select. Most contractors will still honor the guidelines of the rules defined by the old TRCC commission.

So what are these old guidelines? The commission adopted a set of limited warranties and building and performance standards. The adopted limited warranties included: a one-year workmanship and materials warranty; a two-year mechanical and delivery system warranty; a ten-year structural warranty; and a ten-year warranty of habitability.

Parts covered for one year include exterior concrete, framing, drywall, insulation, exterior siding, trim, Masonry, stucco, roofing, doors, windows and interior flooring.

The two-year warranty covers the delivery systems of the plumbing, electrical, heating, air-conditioning and ventilation systems. Major structural parts are covered for ten years. They include the footings, foundations, beams, columns, load-bearing walls, roof framing systems and other parts that support the home.

The ten-year warranty of habitability addresses hidden defects discovered after the expiration of a given warranty period. For example, after the two-year warranty ends, a nail hammered into a pipe later rusts away and leaks, making the house unfit or unsafe for humans to live in. Although the plumbing warranty ended, the fact that an unseen defect led to an unsafe or unfit condition within ten years of the home’s completion makes the defect subject to the warranty of habitability.

Now saying all this, you need to make sure of what your contractor is covering. Will they guarantee their work? What if the one year is up by 1-3 months? How will the contractor you select handle the warranty? Will they give you an additional warranty through a warranty company also? Be sure to get this in writing and protect your huge investment.

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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More from Putting the Pieces Together.

From Waymond Lightfoot

By Texas Assoc. of Realtors

You’ve heard the old saying that real estate is all about location, location, location, and it’s pretty much true regardless of the property type or owner. Location is definitely important when it comes to commercial real estate, but once you get past the universal truth that location is key, the differences between residential and commercial properties start to emerge.

Residential real estate is about your primary dwelling place. It’s about having a roof over your head for you and your family. Commercial real estate is quite different as it’s usually about producing income for your business. Issues related to commercial property including accessibility/parking, proximity to other businesses that create customer traffic, community demographics, zoning, visibility, and, of course, costs are all important for you to consider.

Where do you fit in?

Based on your needs, you may fit into one of two types of commercial property owners: users and investors. Users are typically business owners who need commercial real estate space to house their businesses. The property can provide a place for you to sell your products or services, and you can either buy or lease the commercial property space for your business.

Investors are a different breed. You may be looking for the commercial property itself to be your income generator. Investors buy commercial properties and lease them to others, eventually selling parts of their commercial property portfolio when it makes sense to do so. You may see real estate as a good investment alternative to some of the options available on Wall Street. Real estate is less volatile, a good long-term investment, and, in Texas, very consistent.

Commercial real estate provides two big advantages for you as an investor: income production and tax depreciation. Investors, typically on the advice of their accountant, will eventually sell a commercial property when its depreciation cycle is coming to an end, taking the profits from the sale and reinvesting in another property through a 1031 Exchange. This is why some large chains and franchises build new stores and retire others.

What’s the difference?

Commercial real estate has similarities to residential real estate but also some important distinctions. For example, financing the purchase of a commercial property is different from obtaining a home mortgage loan. Commercial real estate loans usually require at least a 20 percent down payment, are traditionally amortized over 20 years, and have a three- to five-year balloon, meaning they reset after three or five years with a new rate depending on the market.

If you are thinking about buying commercial property, whether for its direct use (from which to run a business) or as an investment, it’s important to hire a Texas REALTOR® experienced in commercial real estate. REALTORS® with the Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation have undergone specialized training in commercial real estate.

Sharing the load

In Texas, a large share of state and local revenues – particularly those that fund public schools – comes from property taxes. In local communities, it’s advantageous to have a good mix of residential and commercial properties in order to have a broad tax base. That way, commercial property owners contribute, and individual homeowners aren’t overburdened with an unfair share of the tax load.

Whether you’re considering purchasing commercial property as a user or investor, you can see there is more to finding the right space than just location, location, location.

Learn more at TexasRealEstate.com.

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.

The 2013-14 Blanco County Fair and Rodeo Queen’s Court enjoyed the Lights Spectacular parade in Johnson City this past weekend. Pictured are Duchess Mikayla Frederick, Queen Sarah Shumake, Duchess Bret Leigh Nance, and Duchess Shelby Matjeka.

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More from Community News.

Brett Pilon is the first one to drop off his letter!

Blanco County News is now accepting Letters to Santa to be published in the Newspaper and then forwarded to the North Pole! Find a form on page 8 or stop by the office to pick one up! They need to be returned to our office by Wednesday, December 18.

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A new child well-being report released today by the Center for Public Policy Priorities shows that child poverty continues to increase despite economic recovery, underscoring the need for Texas to make greater investments that move children and their families into the middle class. The rate of children living in poverty has grown by 47 percent from 2000 to 2011, faster than the 18 percent growth rate of child population in Texas over the same period of time. In Blanco County, the child poverty rate went up by 27.9 percent, while the child population went up by 10.1 percent.

The report finds that far too many kids lack the basics they need to reach their full potential. According to the new Texas KIDS COUNT report, Investing in Our Future: 2013 State of Texas Children, outcomes for kids in health, education, nutrition, and safety often hinge on whether or not they live in poverty.

“Although poverty is certainly not destiny, poverty is still arguably the most important predictor of how kids are doing,” said Frances Deviney, Texas KIDS COUNT director and senior research associate at the Center for Public Policy Priorities.

The Texas KIDS COUNT report shows that 48 percent of public school students in Blanco County are economically disadvantaged, which can negatively impact how well they do in school. For example, 31 percent of economically disadvantaged 3rd-8th graders meet the 2013 STAAR Standards for reading, compared to 57 percent of non-economically disadvantaged kids.

“Texas’ continued underinvestment in education is steering us in the wrong direction,” Deviney said. “Texas’ investments in public education rank us 43rd in the country. With one of every 11 kids in the U.S. living in Texas, we have an enormous responsibility to make sure our future workforce, innovators, and leaders are fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Education investments such as prekindergarten help reduce the education gaps for economically disadvantaged children. However, after several years of growth, the report shows fewer 4 year olds in Texas are attending preschool—in the 2011-12 school year, 196,517 were enrolled, compared to 200,181 in 2010-11, likely due to automatic federal cuts to Head Start and the 2011 Texas Legislature’s preK grant cuts. In Blanco County, 31.4 percent of 4 year olds (or 37) were enrolled in prekindergarten in 2011-12.

The report also shows that proper health and nutrition are essential for children to do well in school. But, in Blanco County, 22.7 percent of kids were still uninsured in 2011 despite an overall decline in Texas. And in 2010, 21.5 percent of kids didn’t know where their next meal would come from.

“Over the last several years, we have been falling short on our commitments to Texas kids,” said Deviney. “Investing to ensure every child has access to a doctor when they need one, nutritious food, and a high quality education is the only way to build on what we do well and continue toward a prosperous future.”

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More from Community News.

The Blanco County Emergency Services District #2 met November 18 at the Blanco Volunteer Ambulance Corps building with all commissioners present except Darwin Labarthe. President Ann Hall called the meeting to order and postponed Public Comments since no one asked to speak at that time. The October 21 minutes were approved with one amendment—the payment of $120 to Brigham Insurance. Treasurer Mary Ann Millard reported total assets for October of $320,569.37, adding that some payments are coming in.

Director of the Blanco Volunteer Ambulance Corps Mike West reported a balance of $33,955 in the checking account, $5,179 in savings, and $20,790 in the Hill Country Heartbeat account, which is allotted for equipment. Income for the month of October included a little over $24K in patient revenue, which he said he would break down into itemized individual patient revenue before the next meeting, $18K from the ESD, and fundraising for a total of $44,101.00 for the month of October, the first month of the 2014 fiscal year. Total expenses for October were $45K, for a loss of $1600 for the month. He said that normally the corps would pay around $11K for workman’s compensation in November, but that arrangements have been made to pay a monthly amount of $1000. He said expenses are in line with what was expected; however, fuel costs are higher than expected because of the increased call volume.

A CPR training class that was scheduled for Blanco State Park has been postponed until January. Immediate needs for the corps include extrication suits, used to protect medics getting people out of vehicles or other dangerous situations. West said he has put this item in the budget for the past three years. He would also like to schedule extrication training with the fire department, so that efforts can be coordinated between those using the jaws of life to get people out and those administering medical aid. He said that Unit 212, a Bluebonnet Dodge which is still under warranty, is being repaired, but that Units 213 and 214 are ready to go on calls.

In the interest of community service, the corps will publish monthly health information on Facebook. There will be a Hill Country Heartbeat meeting in January and an Open House in March. At the request of the Blanco Chamber of Commerce, a “Burger Burn” is scheduled as part of the annual Blanco Lavender Festival, and members of the ESD are welcome to come out and help. West said the event raises a little money but that the main purpose is to promote good public relations.

The number of calls in October dropped to 54 from a normal month of nearly 80. The corps provides medics at football games and was present at the recent Western Showcase at the Buggy Barn, as well as providing mutual aid three times. The average response time for calls is six minutes and 38 seconds, including city and county calls. He said a number of runs take twenty minutes, and that sometimes the corps has to wait for law enforcement to arrive. In answer to a question from Blanco Fire Department board chair Harvey Lindeman, West said that the corps is paid a nominal amount of $150 for providing medics at Blanco ISD athletic events, but that the purpose is community service—“It’s our community---we should be there.”

Ann Hall introduced new Acting Blanco Fire Chief Ron Sallmann, and fire department Lynn Hicks, who reported October income of $17K from the ESD, and $23,513 in expenses with a loss of over $5K for the month. The total assets of the department, however, are $232,463.32.

The department had 18 calls, nine motor vehicle accidents, one EMS assist, and two other calls. Eighty-eight percent of calls came in while the station was manned, and the average response time was eight minutes. The department billed $4,064 but received no money. In response to a question from Ann Hall about what the budget item “Operational Reserves”means, Hicks answered that it is a fund to be used if the department runs out of money in the checking account. In response to a question about how the department uses credit cards, Hicks answered that there is one credit card, which stays in his wallet.

ESD Vice-President Wayne (“Dirt”) Dworaczyk reported that he has been investigating the issues which have been going on among fire department board members. He said that he felt he “got the runaround” on some questions he asked at the last fire department board meeting, so he “did some digging,” since as an ESD board member and a citizen he has the right to look at the department’s equipment. In his words, “We’re all here to support the citizens of Blanco ESD #2.” He said that he has questions about the trucks and equipment, “why they are not up to spec and running and why the maintenance is not being done that should be done when the fire department actually has the money to do that.” He said that he volunteered his shop to work on a truck which none of the firefighters wanted to drive because “it ran all over the road because it had mismatched tires.” He said people in his shop made mechanical repairs which were “simple maintenance,” and he questioned why this maintenance is not being done—that the department wants to buy new brush trucks, when the current equipment could be repaired. “These are simple maintenance items that we should do to protect these guys when they’re rolling down the road at 80 mph so that we don’t have an accident on the way to a fire.”He also said that much of the personal protective gear is out-dated and would not pass inspection. He said that the paid firefighters would not use it. “It seems like everything is about money,” he complained—“his money, their money--but here it is: the money belongs to the ESD, to the people, and we need to provide the firemen with the gear that they need, regardless of who it comes from. “He said that due to the squabbling among fire department board members, he does not see the ESD paying the fire department when they have money they are not using. “As the ESD board, we need to see some changes,” he concluded. Harvey Lindeman said that that he is the person responsible for the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) equipment and that firefighters “get as far away as they can from this equipment we’re using because they will not wear those SCBAs. These need to be fitted to each fireman and have their name on them so they know where to get them. Your life is on the line.” He said he got “a lot of grief” for attempting to use a $30K donation to buy ten new SCBA units because the VFD board members said he did not have the authority to do it and that the department did not need them. “There is no doubt that they are top-of-the line units,” he continued, “and I’m saying I’m going forward and if you don’t want to be part of it, get out of the way.”

After further discussion concerning filling tanks for the SCBAs and the state of the department’s equipment, Ann Hall said that a Mission Statement for ESD #2 has been developed which she called “a roadmap” for the future. It includes the word “teamwork” in several places. Further, she informed those in attendance of newly-enacted House Bill No. 3798, which states that “any property purchased or leased using district funds must remain the property of the district, regardless of whether the property is used by a third party under a contract for services or otherwise.” She added, “We’ve raised all these taxes—there is no need to save all that money to build a fire station. It’s the ESD’s job to build the fire station—it is more important to spend money on equipment and training.” She recounted a recent training for driving trucks which was canceled due to “disarray in the fire department.” Harvey Lindeman added, “We don’t have enough people to drive trucks out of the garage—why is that?” Ron Sallman said, “I’m just trying to get things calmed down. You put me in this position and I’m going to roll with it, (but) the infighting in the board is dragging us down. I’m on the hot seat for something I’ve had eight days to deal with—it’s just exhausting.” He continued that he has told the firefighters not to use equipment they are not comfortable with and that he is going to spend the money to get the equipment fixed because, in his words, “If someone is killed, it is the worst thing that can happen to a community.” David Parks said, “Ron, thank you for what you said, what you did. Everybody in this room wants firefighters to have the best equipment. What is the bottleneck? It seems that the board is the bottleneck.” Lynn Hicks responded, “It was never brought to the board.” Brian Reid said he would love new equipment, but that is not the issue. The board needs to vote, and a simple e-mail or phone call could accomplish that. Harvey Lindeman responded that the board has grown from two to seven members, and that trying to pass the new bylaws has consumed a lot of time. He said that Ron Sallman is the best leader the department has had, that he is the first one to actually do an inventory of the equipment. Ann Hall asked why there is a hesitancy to buy new equipment, that she heard someone say new firefighters should wait six months for bunker gear. “We have watched for too long that nothing happens—we either contract with people who can do the job, or we contract with other people who can.” Elaine Cross asked board members to say that they are on board with moving forward with purchases, and all three said they were. Barry Pierce, treasurer of the EMS board, said that EMS does not have the problems that the fire department has because of the leadership of Mike West. “He makes good decisions. Ron sounds like that—listen to him, and I guarantee you will move forward.”

Dirt concluded, “I’m trying to get free land and a free building, so spend the money on equipment.” He reported that he attended the November meeting of the Blanco city council to ask for a donation of land on the corner of Jones and Blanco Avenues, but the item was tabled until December because the city attorney was not present. Ron Sallman said he has begun applying for grants; but if the fire department has excess funds, it will not be eligible for them. Mike West said he would like the building of a joint EMS-fire department building to be a joint effort, with input from both organizations.

Finally, the board voted to delay the monthly payment of $17,000 from the fire department until the board meets and everyone is on the same page.

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More from Community News.

Christmas is upon us again. Let us not forget our Seniors, living at Live Oak Nursing Home. Visit Brieger Pottery shop and pick out an angel or two from our tree, located just inside, to help our residents have a Merry Christmas. Our residents thank you in advance for your warm generosity and wish you and yours a very Happy Holiday.

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The Blanco County Community Choir will present their 38th annual Christmas program this Friday and Sunday. A dedicated group of volunteer singers have worked hard since September to bring a quality musical experience to the community. This year’s program promises to bring Christmas music to your ears in a memorable way. There will be arrangements of traditional favorites such as “O Holy Night,” “Away in a Manger,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and “Rise Up Shepherd, and Follow.” Then there will be some exciting new sounds. The program will close with an arrangement of the 13th century chant “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” paired with a South African rhythmic tune actually sung in Zulu! That will be something to hear – Texans singing Zulu! It’s been a lot of fun to rehearse.

The singers are sopranos: Heather Beliveau, Renee Benham, Jane Copland, Judy Dorsett, Dorothy Hecimovich, Donna Lietske, Louise Paterson, Shanon Oneill, Gwendolyn Reynolds, Beverly Voron, Paige Whittaker, and Victoria Zaleski. Altos are: Lorissa Hinshaw, Tami Knoll, Rhonda Norville, Bee Reno, Gwen Michal, Rachelle Willgren, and Sally Windham. The tenors are: Arlyn Cook, Margie Heard, Charles Harper-Smith, Doug Pautz, and Joe Raymond. Those singing bass are Brian Hecimovich, Edward Hines, Keith McClellan, Stephen Porter, Frank Raymond, and Bill Voron.

Vickie Pautz is the director and Brenda Matheny is the pianist. Brandon Aly will play some percussion and some talented high school students from Blanco will provide soprano sax and flute accompaniment to the final piece.

The performances will be Friday, December 6 at the Baptist Church in Johnson City at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 8 at the Baptist Church in Blanco at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the sounds of the season.

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More from Community News.

I believe in Santa Claus. I have to for the sake of my grandchildren. They are convinced that Santa and Mrs. Claus, who appeared recently at the lighting of the Old Blanco County Courthouse, are the real thing. All the other Santa’s are just their helpers.

I have to believe in flying reindeer; stockings stuffed with candy, nuts and toys; Christmas trees twinkling with bright lights topped by angels or stars; and I believe that if I don’t behave as I ought, Santa just might give me a lump of coal. Santa is the epitome of the genuine good guy who provides good things for children of all ages, colors, creeds, nationalities and genders.

Now, I have to admit that not everyone shares my beliefs—and that’s O.K. It’s one of the blessings of living in a country where differences are tolerated and even celebrated--at least in theory. But I have to ask myself, “What is the real reason for the season?” Surely it isn’t just about Santa Claus, elves, colorful gift-wrap, twinkling lights and hectic last-minute shopping.

We are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ two millennia ago. “None other has had so profound an influence upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth. He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. ‘All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made’ (John 1:3).

“He ‘went about doing good’ (Acts 10:38), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.

“He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary’s cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift on behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth… His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world. He rose from the grave to ‘become the first fruits of them that slept” (I Cor. 15:20).

“He will someday return to earth. ‘And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together’ (Isaiah 40:5). He will rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our works and the desires of our hearts…”

Jesus is the living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come.” (Excerpts from “The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles,” LDS, January 1, 2000)

Yes, Santa Claus pales when compared to the Living Lord. “God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.”

(Comments? mustardseeds101@yahoo.com)

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More from Mustard Seeds.

Kelly Silvernail, age 67, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 26, 2013, with family by her side at Stone Oak Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, Texas.

Born in Orange, Texas on November 1, 1946, she graduated from Kountze High School in 1965. Kelly lived in Blanco, Texas with her husband for the last 20 years.

Kelly loved spending time with her family and friends. She was an active and involved member of Trinity Lutheran Church, an excellent cook, and vacationed annually in Fulton, Texas with her husband, Bill. She was known and loved by many for her big heart, great sense of humor, and beautiful spirit.

She is preceded in death by her father, Kelly Smith, mother, Helen Smith, and brother, Allen Smith.

She is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Bill Silvernail; children, Terri Lunceford and husband, Steve, of Liberty, Texas, and Kim Stone and husband, Regan, of San Antonio, Texas; stepchildren, Paula Boudreaux and husband, Tony, of Nome, Texas, Tamra Ocel of Austin, Texas, and Anna Sweat and husband, Nathan, of Katy, Texas; seventeen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Martha Salim, Nina Loper, and Rosemary Jackson; and numerous other family and friends.

A memorial service was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Blanco, Texas, on Tuesday, December 3, 2013, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions toward medical expenses can be made via Paypal to silvernailkelly@gmail.com, or deposited at Security State Bank of Blanco in the the name of "Bill Silvernail" or "Kelly Silvernail".

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More from Obituaries.

AUSTIN — Texas’ primary election is set for March 4, 2014, and the list of candidates for statewide office is largely settled, with Dec. 9as the filing deadline.

Most recently gaining notice was state Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, who announced her candidacy for lieutenant governor on Nov. 23. Van de Putte has 22 years of experience as a state lawmaker — eight years as a state representative and 14 years as a senator. She serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Van de Putte and her colleague Sen. Wendy Davis, D-Fort Worth, who is seeking the Texas Democratic Party’s nomination for governor, form the nucleus of an effort to end a 20-year Republican sweep in statewide elections. Also seeking the Texas Democratic Party’s nomination for lieutenant governor is Seadrift Municipal Court Judge Reynaldo “Ray” Madrigal.

State Attorney General Greg Abbott, a Republican, is campaigning to succeed Rick Perry as governor. Last summer, Perry chose not to seek another term in the office he has occupied since 2001 and speculation about his mounting a second run for the presidency continues. Also running for the Republican Party of Texas’ gubernatorial nomination are former Univision personality Miriam Martinez of the Rio Grande Valley, author and former radio show host Lisa Fritsch of Austin and secessionist Larry S. Kilgore of Arlington.

4 Republicans to vie

While incumbent Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst has presided over the Senate since January 2003, he appears unready to change his job description. Dewhurst, who explored and passed on a possible run for governor, faces a field of three of his fellow Republicans in the GOP primary: Texas Land Commissioner and former state lawmaker Jerry Patterson, Agriculture Commissioner and former state senator Todd Staples, and state Sen. Dan Patrick of Houston, chair of the Senate Education Committee.

4 seek to be next AG

In the race to succeed Greg Abbott as state attorney general is Houston attorney Sam Houston, a Democrat, the lone candidate seeking his party’s nomination. Seeking the Republican Party’s nomination are Texas Railroad Commission Chairman Barry Smitherman of Austin, state Rep. Dan Branch of Dallas, chairman of the House Higher Education Committee; and freshman state Sen. Ken Paxton of McKinney, vice chair of the Senate Transportation Committee and former House member (2003-2012).

4 running for comptroller

Seeking the Texas GOP nomination for comptroller of public accounts, to succeed Susan Combs as the state’s chief financial officer, are Republicans Harvey Hilderbran of Kerrville, chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means; Sen. Glenn Hegar of Katy, chair of the Senate Committee on Nominations; and Debra Medina of Wharton, a registered nurse, tea party activist and GOP primary candidate for governor in 2010. Accounting executive and energy company chief financial officer Mike Collier of Kingwood is running for comptroller on the Democratic ticket.

5 after Ag Dept. role

Now in primary races for the top spot at the Texas Department of Agriculture are Republicans J. Allen Carnes of Uvalde, former state Rep. Tommy Merritt of Longview, Karnes City rancher and attorney Eric Opiela, former state Rep. Sid Miller of Stephenville. Democrat Jim Hogan of Cleburne is seeking his party’s nomination for agriculture commissioner. Whoever wins election in November will succeed Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples, who is running for lieutenant governor.

Incumbent chief justice files

Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, a Republican, has filed for candidacy to retain his current position. Hecht, who has been a member of the high court since 1988, was appointed chief justice on Sept. 10 and was sworn in on Oct. 1. He succeeded fellow Republican Wallace Jefferson. As of Dec. 1, no Democrat had filed as a candidate for chief justice.

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On November 25, members of the Texas A&M Army ROTC’s Ranger Challenge Team are pictured with Dr. R Bowen Loftin ’71, President, Texas A&M University. Texas A&M’s Ranger Challenge Team took top honors for 1st Brigade, Cadet Command, Bold Leader Challenge held at Fort Knox, KY. From L-R, Front Row: Justin Scarbrough ’17, Katheryn Nolen ’17, Olivia Golden ’17, and Parker Zaitz ’17. Back Row: Andrew Owen ’14, Pres. R. Bowen Loftin ’71, Per Johnson ’15, Kyle Sauer ’16, Ben Ritchie ’16, Dan Stevenson ’16, Paul Mathy ’15, Chris Hooker ’15, Grant Weaver ’15. COL Michael A. Bottiglieri ’89, Professor of Military Science, and MAJ Joseph Nickel, Ranger Challenge Team Adviser.

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The Christmas Holidays are steeped in tradition. Nothing says “home for Christmas” better than having your house all decorated for the Holidays. The family Christmas tree stocked full of ornaments from the past can be so sentimental to us and important to keep in mind when decorating for Christmas. The challenge is keeping it fresh and up-dated while still holding on to that homey nostalgia. These few tips from Shauna and Erin at Two Sisters Home Makeovers can help you maintain the nostalgia and still have outstandingly beautiful Christmas decorations.

We encourage our clients to choose a theme because it ties everything together. It gives your home, the atmosphere, and the decorations a congruency that is very pleasing to the eye, comfortable, and inviting. When a room has this cohesive nature, your guests and loved ones will relax and enjoy their surroundings.

Choosing a theme for Christmas can be as simple as choosing a limited color scheme, like silver and gold for your décor. Although, you may want to go all out and choose a theme that makes a bolder statement about you, like a peacock theme, or an all-natural Organic theme, or maybe a light hearted Santa theme. No matter the theme, we at Two Sisters Home Makeovers will decorate your home to your tastes incorporating those traditional ornaments and decorations that have sentimental value and are steeped in your family’s customs. We have been decorating homes and businesses for Christmas for years and have mastered the art of balancing beauty and style with nostalgia and family traditions. We can make your home look like a million while never losing that signature look that says, “YOU”.

Whether you choose to do this with or without the help of Two Sisters, always remember to decorate your tree from the inside out, from the bottom to the top, and place “like” items evenly dispersed throughout. When you choose a theme stick to it throughout the room. Place your themed items evenly dispersed throughout your tree then fill in with your favorites from the past. These simple tips will help you create a beautiful, inviting yet still nostalgically traditional Christmas environment for your friends and family to enjoy through the Holiday Season.

To reach TSHM for any of your decorating needs you can call at 830-708-9862 or 830-481-3661. Mention this article for a 10% discount off the labor for decorating one room in your home or business.

Thank you and have a wonderful Christmas season! Shauna and Erin @ Two Sisters Home Makeovers

We invite you to look at our web page for all of your decorating needs: www.twosistershomemakeovers.com.

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Experience the joy of the holidays in a whole new way! On Thursday, December 19 at 7:30 audience favorite REVEL, the classical band, returns to Blanco in a seasonal celebration unlike any other, with winter-inspired masterworks, folk songs and dances, and original REVEL arrangements of traditional holiday favorites. From Brahms and Vivaldi to Piazolla and Vince Guaraldi of A Charlie Brown’s Christmas music fame, REVEL takes music lovers back to the roots of classical music in the intimate setting of the Uptown Blanco Ballroom. NowPlayingAustin.com says of REVEL’s award-winning artists, violinist Cármelo de los Santos, cellist Joel Becktell and pianist Carla McElhaney: ““What a stellar group! The feel of a REVEL concert is unlike that of any other chamber group. The way they seamlessly incorporate classical and contemporary music into one concert is both enlightening and refreshing.”

Tickets are available at www.blancoperformingarts.com or by calling 830-385-1173. Make a sparkling evening by adding a dinner at Uptown Blanco Restaurant with a special for ticket holders or a 10% discount on menu items. Call 830-833-0738 for dinner reservations.

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Show your caring side by donating and putting your name on a dove. Last year it was the Angel Tree, this year we have beautiful doves! Our doves start at $5 and you get a FREE 2013 calendar to take home. If you are donating in the name of a loved one, you can take a card to give to them to let them know how special they are.

We are starting our annual Food for Fines program for the local community. Now through January 15th, we will accept 1 unexpired box or canned food for $1 off your late fines! Do you have $3 in late fines, no problem! Just bring 3 cans. Do you have $20 in late fines? No problem either! Bring in 20 cans or boxes of goods and take care of that pesky debt!

It’s that time of year again to renew your membership with the Friends of the Blanco Library. Remember, all membership funds go towards purchasing new materials for the library. Love our bestsellers? Help keep them coming by being a Friend. Love to socialize? Friends’ members get exclusive invites to events and classes!

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

Recently Added Bestsellers: Accursed by Joyce Carol Oates, Control by Glenn Beck, Dance of the Seagull by Andrea Camilleri, Doing Hard Time by Stuart Woods, The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert, Silencing Eve by Iris Johansen, and Storm Front by John Sandford.

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On Sunday, December 1, we held our 3rd Annual Buggy Barn Museum Christmas Concert and Meal at Carriage Hills Ranch.

Carriage Hills Ranch was decorated beautifully for Christmas with a lighted Christmas tree inside and decorations outside as well. The evening was filled with great food, great music, and wonderful people. Everyone who came brought either an unwrapped toy and/or a food item. We received so many wonderful items that we will be taking to the food bank here in Blanco and giving the toys to the children in need this Christmas.

Our musical entertainment came from the talented Jean Prescott and Yvonne Hollenbeck. They sang some Christmas songs, old western tunes, and recited poetry that Yvonne Hollenbeck wrote herself. Our chuck wagon meal, prepared by Dennis Moore and his crew, was chili, beans, and cornbread followed by some desserts courtesy of Christine Bushong and family.

We would like to express our thanks to everyone who came and brought an item to give. We hope you all had just as much fun as we did. Merry Christmas to you from everyone at Buggy Barn Museum and Carriage Hills Ranch.

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Electricity permitted signs to be illuminated by light shining onto them, but the real revolution occurred when lightbulbs were used to form the images and words on signs. Lightbulbs flashing on and off made new demands on the attention of passersby. Lightbulbs blinking in sequence could also simulate movement. Add this property to the mix, and a dramatic transformation of American streets resulted.

Neon first appeared in signs in the 1920s, and reached its height of popularity in the 1940s. The first documented neon commercial sign in the United States was at a Packard Motor Car dealership in Los Angeles in 1923.After a period of decline, it underwent a renaissance, beginning in the 1970s. Artists experimented with neon as a conscious art-form, and several notable architects further helped in its revival. Renewed interest in this colorful medium also sparked interest in preserving historic neon signs.

In the decades after World War II signs were also transformed by a group of materials now known generically as "plastic." Plastic had several advantages over wood, metal and other traditional sign materials. As the name indicates, "plastic" can take almost any shape. It can also take almost any color. Plastic is translucent. Lit from behind, it appears to glow. It is relatively durable. Above all, it is inexpensive, and can be mass produced. Plastic quickly became the dominant sign material.

Sign Regulation

Historic commercial areas have customarily been a riot of signs. Yet if clutter has ample precedent, so do efforts to control it. Early attempts to regulate signs in this country include those of professional associations of advertisers, such as the International Bill Posters Organization of North America, founded in St. Louis in 1872.

Yet gradually courts found merit in the regulation of private property for aesthetic reasons. In 1954 the U.S. Supreme Court handed down the landmark decision, Berman v. Parker, in which the court declared: "It is within the power of the legislature to determine that the community should be beautiful as well as healthy, spacious as well as clean, well balanced as well as carefully patrolled."

With the blessing of the courts, communities across the nation have enacted sign controls to reduce "urban blight." And where historic buildings are concerned, the growth of local review commissions has added to the momentum for controls in historic districts.

Typically, sign controls regulate the number, size and type of signs. In some cases, moving or projecting signs are prohibited. Often such ordinances also regulate sign placement—owners are told to line up their signs with others on the block, for example. Materials, likewise, are prescribed: wood is encouraged, plastic discouraged or forbidden altogether. Sign controls often specify lighting sources: indirect illumination (light shining onto the sign) is often required instead of neon tubing, bare lightbulbs, or "backlighting," used in most plastic signs. Some ordinances forbid lighting completely. (Neon, especially, is still held in disfavor in some areas.) Finally, ordinances sometimes require signs to be "compatible" in color and other design qualities with the facade of the building and the overall appearance of the street.

Existing signs frequently do not meet requirements set forth in sign controls. They are too big, for example, or project too far from the building. Typically, sign ordinances permit such "nonconforming" existing signs to remain, but only for a specified period, after which they must be removed. If they need repair before then, or if the business changes owners, they must likewise be removed.

Sign controls offer communities the chance to reduce visual blight. They can also assist in producing both a new visibility and a new viability for historic commercial districts. Yet sign ordinances are not without problems. Sign controls satisfy contemporary ideas of "good taste." But "bad taste" has ample historic precedent. And in any case, tastes change. What is tasteful today may be dated tomorrow. Sign controls can impose a uniformity that falsifies history. Most historic districts contain buildings constructed over a long period of time, by different owners for different purposes; the buildings reflect different architectural styles and personal tastes. By requiring a standard sign "image" in such matters as size, material, typeface and other qualities, sign controls can mute the diversity of historic districts. Such controls can also sacrifice signs of some age and distinction that have not yet come back into fashion. Neon serves as an instructive example in this regard: once "in," then "out," then "in" again. Unfortunately, a great number of notable signs were lost because sign controls were drafted in many communities when neon was "out." Increasingly, however, communities are enacting ordinances that recognize older and historic signs and permit them to be kept. The National Park Service encourages this trend.

Information above was provided by the National Park Service. The next article we will cover Twentieth Century Signs and Sign Practices and Sign Regulation.

Signs within the Historic District must have a Certificate of Appropriateness issued by the Blanco Historic Commission at City Hall on Pecan St on the square.

For more information on the City of Blanco ordinance, amendment to sign regulations: http://www.blancoguide.com/signage/

For a PDF copy log onto: www.blancoguide.com/docs/UDCSigns.pdf.

On design guidelines log onto: http://www.blancoguide.com/design/. Design Guidelines help’s the Blanco Historic Preservation Commission (BHPC) with renovation/construction requests in the downtown historic district, which encompasses the 9 blocks that make up the square.

Rudy Nino a local resident is a builder member and advisor to the City of Blanco Historic Commission he is the owner of a successful residential and consulting company specializing on remodeling. Well known as SA Building & Remodeling, Co.

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A very elderly man with bad eyesight calls his neighbor and says, "Please come help me. I have a neat jigsaw puzzle, and I can't figure out how to get started." His neighbor asks, "What is it supposed to be when it's finished?" The man says, "According to the picture on the box, it's a rooster." The neighbor comes over and looks at the pieces on the table, then looks at the box, then turns to the man and says, "First of all, no matter what we do, we're not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a rooster." “Now,” he says, "let's put all the Corn Flakes back in the box."

Making all the pieces fit can be a lifelong struggle. In Luke 10:38-42 Jesus visited in the home of Martha. Martha's sister, Mary was present and was listening to the teaching of Jesus, while Martha "was distracted with all her preparations." Martha spoke to Jesus and asked Him to tell Mary to help her. Jesus said to Martha, "You are worried and bothered about so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." It should be pointed out that there was nothing evil about what Martha was doing. This was a case of misplaced priorities. Getting the pieces in order, in just the right place is important. Some things, though not evil, are just not as important as other things. Mary had made a conscious choice and Jesus says it was a good choice. When we come to hear what God has to say, like Mary, we also are making the right choice. Come and learn of the Lord's will for your life.

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' (Request in English or Spanish

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