The caller advised they were attempting to detain the male subject at gunpoint when he placed the female between himself and the caller as a shield and exited the property with her.

The male subject entered the caller’s vehicle outside with the female and left the area at a high rate of speed.

Deputies began searching for the stolen vehicle as well as processing the scene on Knape Road. Through evidence located at the scene and the initial caller’s information deputies were able to identify the male subject as Justin Joseph Howard, 40, of Houston and the female subject as Ashley Renea White, 39, of Houston, who had last been seen with Howard on May 17.

White had been reported as a missing person through the Houston Police Department earlier on May 19. Deputies learned that Howard had just been released from jail after being arrested for a family violence assault against White.

A statewide CLEAR alert was issued for White with Howard and the information for the stolen vehicle.

On the morning of May 20, at approximately 8:07 a.m., Fayette County Sheriff's Office received a call of a possible sighting of the stolen vehicle in a pasture in the area off Old Plum Highway and Egypt Road near La Grange. Deputies arrived and located the vehicle in the pasture near a tree line approximately a quarter mile from the roadway.

Fayette County Investigators launched a drone to approach and were able to confirm that it was the stolen vehicle and to observe that Howard was still inside.

Deputies established a perimeter around the area to prevent the vehicle from leaving and to place deputies between the subject and occupied residences in the area.

The Austin County Regional Special Response Team (SRT) was requested to make scene and Fayette County EMS units were staged nearby to respond while deputies continued to hold the perimeter and observe Howard.

It appeared that Howard had entered the pasture in an attempt to hide there and was later unable to move the vehicle due to the mud after the significant rainfall.

The SRT team approached to make contact with Howard who exited the vehicle while restraining White in front of him as a shield. Howard displayed a pistol forcing SRT members to engage him out of concern for the safe- ty of White and the officers on scene. White was removed from the scene by the SRT team safely and SRT medics began rendering aid to Howard.

Despite lifesaving measures Howard succumbed to his injuries on scene. White was transported to an area hospital by FCEMS for injuries previously inflicted by Howard. White was later flown to another medical facility and at this time is still receiving medical care for her injuries.

The incident is currently being investigated by the Fayette Coun- ty Sheriff's Office and the Texas Rangers at this time.

The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank local citizens for being attentive to the information that was put out and calling in the location of the vehicle and their deputies, Fayette County EMS, Lee County Constable 1 and 2 and the other agencies involved on scene. Schulenburg Police Department for their assistance with the initial scene. and to the Austin County Regional SRT Team which is made up of personnel from Austin, Colorado, and Fayette counties.

linger May 29-31, bringing a full weekend of food, mu sic, competition, and small- town tradition.

Festival weekend kicks off Friday, May 29, with Chef's Choice Entrée and Dessert contests, along with Chips & Salsa and Bartend -

er's Choice competitions. Live music from the Air - plane Band will wrap up the evening from 8 to 11 p.m.

Saturday's lineup fea - tures barbecue competi - tions in brisket, chicken, pork spare ribs, pork butt, and pinto beans, as well as Farmer's Breakfast and Adult Breakfast Beverage contests.

One of the newest attrac - tions this year is the $1,000 Steak Shootout Cook-Off, giving grill masters a chance to compete for cash prizes, bragging rights, and top honors.

Families can also enjoy free kids activities includ - ing water slides and bouncy houses throughout the day,

while festivalgoers can take part in the annual crowd-fa - vorite Tomato Toss Contest beginning at 4 p.m.

More than $6,000 in prize money will be award - ed during the BBQ Cook-Off and Steak Shootout competitions Award Cere - mony on Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

A live auction featuring a $500 Buyer's Bonus is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sat - urday evening, followed by DJ entertainment. Mason

Jar of La Grange and R&R Shaved Ice will also be on

site Friday and Saturday

serving festival attendees.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday, May 31, communi- ty volunteers will serve the awesome Ellinger chamber fried chicken and sausage meal featuring homemade fried chicken, sausage, but - tered potatoes, green beans, and sauerkraut. Plates will be available for $15 through both dine-in and drive-thru service while supplies last.

The Sunday meal has long been one of the festival's most cherished traditions, drawing families and visi - tors from across the area to

enjoy a homemade meal and hometown hospitality.

Raffle tickets are also available for purchase now and during the festival. Only 1,200 tickets will be sold, with 50 prizes to be awarded. Tickets are $20 each or three for $50. Cash, check, and Venmo pay ments are accepted. You do not have to be present to win. The drawing will be held live at 1:30 p.m. Sun - day via Facebook Live. To purchase tickets, call or text 979-966-8612.

See you in Ellinger this weekend, where history and hospitality meet!For regis- tration information, official contest rules, and addition- al festival details, visit el lingertexas.com.

SEALY - Save the date. The Bluebonnet Mas ter Gardener Association will host its Annual Fruit & Citrus Tree Sale on Friday, Aug. 28. This will be a day of sale. A variety list can be found on the Bluebonnet Master Gardener website. The Annual Fruit & Citrus Tree Sale will take place on Friday, Aug. 28, starting at 8 a.m. at the American Le gion Post #442, 1630 Meyer St. in Sealy.

There will be Bluebon net master gardeners on site to help with the selection of fruit and citrus trees. All trees are locally sourced to ensure they are acclimated to this area. All proceeds benefit the Bluebonnet Mas ter Gardener Association scholarship fund, commu nity gardening projects, and summer activities for area youth.

The Bluebonnet Master

Gardener Association is a

network of trained master volunteers working direct -

ly with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Ser - vices in Austin, Colorado, Fayette, and Washington counties. More information can be found here: https:// txmg.org/bluebonnet. There will also be an educational program on Fri-

day, Aug. 28, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at American

Legion Post #442 located

at 1630 Meyer St. in Sealy.

The Fall Horticulture Sem- inar is hosted by the Horti - culture Committee of Aus - tin County and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Austin County. Program registration will begin at 12:30 p.m. with the first presentation beginning at 1 p.m. The program will cost $20 per person or $35 per couple. They ask that you please RSVP to the Austin County Extension Office at 979-865-2072 or online at https://austin.agril - ife.org/event-registrations/ to reserve your seat. If you purchase a tree from the sale, you will receive a $5 discount on the program.

For any questions, con - tact the Agriculture & Nat ural Resources Agent in Austin County, Stacie Vil - larreal, at 979-865-2072 or one of the other agents in Colorado, Fayette, or Wash ington.

day, June 18. The annual row crop tour will start with regis - tration at the Nada Com - munity Center at 4:30 p.m. They will leave for the tours promptly at 5 p.m. The tour will include stops at the cotton demonstration plot and corn demonstration plot to hear from AgriLife specialists. Following the field tours, will be a barbecue dinner and evening pro -

gram. Three TDA CEUs will be offered to private

pesticide applicators.

For more information, please contact the Colora - do County Extension Of -

fice at 979-732-2082.

at 171 S. Main in La Grange accepts old flags for proper disposal. The drop-off bin located inside the museum is

open 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. If leaving flags outside the door when the museum is closed, please put them in a plastic bag or a box so that they are not laying on the ground.

SEALY DANCE TO BE HELD

SEALY - The Sealy Dance will be held Saturday, June 6 at the Sealy American Legion Hall located at 1630 Meyer St. in Sealy. The band, Al Sulak and the Country Sounds, will be providing live music from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. The public is always welcome.

FATHER'S DAY/BBQ EVENT PLANNED MILLHEIM — Millheim Harmonie Hall will hold a Father’s Day and barbecue celebration Sunday, June 21 at the hall located on Farm-to-Market Road 949 between Sealy and Bellville. The beef, pork and mutton meal is a real Texas style open pit barbecue with serving beginning at 11 a.m. The cost to make your plate and dine in is $18 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. To go plates at the drive-thru are $18 and served from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will include a cakewalk, gun raffle, ballons, face painting, and live auction at 1 p.m. To donate items for the live auction. Music will be provided by Lost Cause Band.

CERNOCH FAMILY REUNION

Descendants of Jon and Maria Cernoch will have their 37th biennial family reunion on Saturday, June 6 at the Dubina KJT Hall. Registration begins at 11 a.m. with lunch around noon. Each family is asked to bring covered dish foods to share. Eating utensils and drinks will be furnished. Meeting and activities to follow lunch. Contact Sandy Kerby at 281-615-3639 or Janell Cernoch Ellison at 409-779-5355 or cernochdescendants.dubi -

natx@gmail.com with any questions.

CLERKS OFFICE TO CLOSE FOR SOFTWARE CONVERSION COLUMBUS - The Colorado County Clerk's office in Columbus will be closed Friday, May 29 due to soft -

ware conversion.

FRELSBURG VFD TO HOLD FEAST FRELSBURG — The Frelsburg Volunteer Fire Department will hold its annual feast Sunday, June 14 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church grounds in Frelsburg. A chicken and sausage meal, at $15 per plate, dine-in or drive-thru, will be served starting at 11 a.m. Plates to go drive-through line will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hamburgers and nachos will be available after 3 p.m. A live auction will begin at 1 p.m. The event will include a drawing, cake wheel, country store, games and silent auction. A free dance, with music by The Lost Cause Band, will follow the auction and continue until 8 p.m. Proceeds go toward new fire equipment and operating expenses.

CAT SPRING AG TO HOLD BBQ CAT SPRING — The Cat Spring Agricultural Society will hold its annual Barbecue Fest Saturday, June 6 at the hall at 13035 Hall Rd. in Cat Spring. The barbecue beef, pork and sausage meal will be served starting at 5 p.m. Dine in and plates to go are $15 and children 10 and under $10. The event includes a live auction that starts at 6:30 p.m., deck of cards raffle, cake walk, fun events for the kids and cornhole tournament beginning at 4 p.m.

'I had a mother who read to me Sagas of pirates who scoured the sea, Cutlasses clenched in their yellow teeth, 'Blackbirds' stowed in the hold beneath.'

I am 'up north,' as people say, spending time with my parents at their cabin. My parents are spending more time in town, especially in the winter. But now it is spring, and to hear them tell it, being a nonagenarian is no reason to stay away from the place they love best.

I help out a little with things that are getting harder for them to do, but honestly, I don't do much more than enjoy their company and fold into their life for a few days, talking and running errands and sharing thoughts about the news of the day and memories of the past.

And I listen to my mom reading.

My mom has always read aloud. Reading was a daily habit for my mother, and she made it clear from the time I was small that there was nothing unusual about reading aloud -- a children's story, an editorial or the Bible. My mom read aloud to us nearly every day, as I recall.

The stories left an indelible mark. I remember the sweetness of Laura Ingalls Wilder describing Pa playing the fiddle by firelight in the middle of the Wisconsin woods, and I remember the horror of Hans Christian Andersen describing the house where the witch lived at the bottom of the sea, built with the bones of drowned sailors. My mom took me to all these places, my sister and I, and my father was listening, more often than not.

Perhaps for a while my mother read a little less. I honestly don't know if she read aloud as much when they were busy building their cabin in the woods. But not long after, perhaps even before my father's eyesight began to fade, my mother began reading aloud again every day.

My mother complains, 'I read it, but your father remembers it!' And it's true, my dad listens carefully and has an excellent memory.

She reads a daily devotional aloud. She reads an essay by a nature writer. She reads a chapter in a book they are working through. She reads a meme she thinks is funny. She reads an article from the local paper. She reads to my dad, and when I visit, I hear her read.

Yesterday, I went to my mother's book club. There were nearly 20 women reading the poems of a local poet. And I realized that my beliefs about writing and the value I place on books come almost entirely from my mom.

She felt that books should be shared. She let me know that stories brought people together. She was honest if she didn't understand what a writer was trying to say or if they used a word she didn't know. There was no shame in that. Read the passage aloud. Talk about it. Look up the word. How else can you learn?

Years ago, I helped organize a reading for Mother's Day. There were short stories about mothers and poems about a mother's love. I honestly don't remember what all we read. But one poem, 'The Reading Mother,' by Strickland Gillilan, stayed with me. Even though the poem was old and a little sentimental, it stuck in my mind because it was still so deeply true for me.

'You may have tangible wealth untold; Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.

Richer than I you can never be I had a Mother who read to me.'

Till next time, Carrie

Columbus chamber celebrates Magnolia Days success, local graduates and summer season

COLUMBUS — The Columbus Chamber of Commerce extends sincere thanks to everyone who supported and attended the Magnolia Days Festival 2026. From volunteers and sponsors to vendors, performers, and festivalgoers, the event’s success was made possible through the dedication and participation of the entire community.

Looking ahead, plans are already underway for Magnolia Days Festival 2027, scheduled for May 14–15, 2027, so mark your calendars! The chamber is proud to report an outstanding turnout and overwhelmingly positive feedback following this year’s festival. Community members came together to celebrate the spirit, hospitality, and traditions that make Columbus such a special place.

The chamber would also like to extend heartfelt congratulations to all area graduates. This milestone represents years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and the chamber wishes each graduate continued success and exciting opportunities in the future. Special congratulations go to our Junior Ambassador, Alejandra Diaz. We thank her for her involvement and dedication over the past two years with the chamber and wish her the very best in all her future endeavors. As summer begins, the chamber encourages residents and visitors alike to continue supporting local businesses and participating in the many events and activities taking place throughout the season. Summer brings opportunities to gather, enjoy our town, and support the businesses and organizations that make Columbus unique.

From the Country Market to family-friendly gatherings and community initiatives, summer activities offer meaningful ways for residents to connect with neighbors, explore local offerings, and celebrate the community’s vibrant spirit.

The chamber invites everyone to attend the next Columbus Country Market on Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Courthouse Square. Farmers, bakers, artists, authors, artisans, cooks, canners, and jam makers will all be featured, offering something for everyone. The event will also include live music, plants, food vendors, and much more.

We would also like to remind everyone about the upcoming 90 Miles on 90 Garage Sale Adventure, taking place Friday and Saturday, June 5–6; a true shopper’s paradise stretching from Sealy to Seguin, with Columbus right in the heart of the treasure hunt. Maps will be available beginning Friday, May 29 on our Facebook page and at the chamber office. For Colorado County residents who are not located along Highway 90 and who would still like to participate, the chamber is hosting Tunes and Treasures on Travis on Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the Courthouse Square. Vendor spaces are available for $30. For more information or to reserve a space, please contact the chamber office at 979-732-8385.

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, along with H-E-B, invites everyone to attend the annual Fireworks Display on Saturday, July 4th at the Columbus Golf Course. The fireworks show will begin at 9:15 p.m. The City pool will be open until 9 p.m., and Liberty Bell Sweet Treats will be available on site. Please note that the football stadium will not be open for viewing, so guests are encouraged to park along designated roadways for viewing areas. Restrooms will not be available, so please plan accordingly. In addition, the Chamber will host a 4th of July Coloring Contest from Wednesday, June 1 through Tuesday, June 29, open to ages 5–10. Coloring sheets may be picked up beginning June 1 at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce office, located at 425 Spring St. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.

In addition to summer events, the chamber invites the community to attend two upcoming ribbon cuttings: Kingdom Worship Center Ministries at 717 Walnut St. on Thursday, June 4 at 4:30 p.m. and Grand Oaks Antiques & Gifts – 14th Anniversary at 1034 Milam St. on Thursday, June 11 at 11:30 a.m. Chamber members are invited to attend our next quarterly mixer on Tuesday, June 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., hosted by First National Bank of Eagle Lake at 408 Walnut St.

Together, Columbus can make this summer one of connection, celebration, and shared success.

For information about chamber members and events, follow us on Facebook or visit our website at www.columbustexas.org.

Data from the American Clean Power Association indicate that the state has 54 wind projects stalled as part of a nationwide delay affecting 165 onshore wind projects.

President Donald Trump has long opposed wind power. Energy experts such as Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger say the administration is using the regulations, such as ensuring a wind project would not affect military airspace, as an attack on renewable power.

“It’s hard to see this as anything other than an effort to slow or stop wind power regardless of the consequences for consumers, the environment and grid reliability,” Metzger said.

In a statement, a defense department official said DOD is still evaluating the projects.

The department’s evaluation of wind turbines “is inherently complex and time-consuming because it involves balancing two critical, and sometimes competing, interests: developing energy sources while ensuring military operations and readiness are not degraded or impaired to the extent an unacceptable risk to national security is creat- ed," the official said.

R&D plays vital role in state’s economy Texas is one of the top five states contributing to research and development, according to a recent report from the state comptrol- ler's office.

The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates R&D’s contribution to gross domestic product, “after accounting for the resources used to produce goods and services, employment and compensation from 2012 to 2023.”

The R&D value added by Texas businesses reached $29.2 billion in 2023, a 131% increase from 2012. Further, R&D in the state supplied nearly 195,000 jobs and $30.1 billion in wages, salaries and benefits in 2023.

Texas has 15 Tier 1 colleges and universities, the most in any state. In 2024, more than 11,800 patents were issued in Texas, the second highest in the country, after California.

“When investments are made in research, the returns multiply — strengthening our competitiveness, securing our future and improving the lives of all Texans,” said Fernanda Leite, interim vice president for research at UT-Austin.

First case in 2026 of West Nile virus reported The year's first case of West Nile virus has been reported in a Harris County resident, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, though 80% of people infected with West Nile never experience symptoms.

“West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses are a fact of life in Texas in the warmer months, and all Texans should take precautions against mosquito bites to stay safe and healthy,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer A. Shuford. She advised removing standing water from homes and yards, such as in buckets, old tires and other items.

The symptoms experienced by the unlucky 20% include fever, headache, nausea, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue. Though rare, West Nile virus can be fatal.

In the past five years, there have been 976 cases of West Nile in Texas, according to DSHS, with 106 deaths during that period.

Franklin Mountains State Park grows by 1,000 acres

Franklin Mountains State Park, 15 minutes from El Paso, is now 1,054 acres larger to the east as the result of a new land acquisition, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported.

“I am excited about this acquisition,” said Superintendent Cesar Mendez, “which extends the buffer zone all the way to Martin Luther King Boulevard, adding some lower ele- vation and flatter land to Franklin Mountains State Park and securing access points (trailheads).”

With 28,000 acres — or 43 square miles — the park is one of the largest urban wilderness parks in the world. It has more than 120 miles of trail and is a popular site with birders.

The acquisition helps safeguard the main mountain area of desert bighorn sheep habitat.

Federal aid for

Panhandle wildfire victims The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a request for grant funds to assist victims of the Hunggate Fire in Randall County, which has merged with the Chocolate Chip Fire, burning an estimated 14,000 acres and threatening more than 1,245 homes.

Aid has also been granted for the Sinky Fire in Potter County, which has burned more than 2,500 acres and prompted evacuation of more than 500 acres.

“Texas has secured federal resources to further guard against wildfire threats in the Panhandle,” said Gov. Greg Abbott. “With this grant approval, Texas has additional tools to help Texans remain safe from wildfire danger.” The approval of a Fire Management Assistance Grant makes the state eligible for 75% reimbursement from the federal government for eligible costs as- sociated with wildfire sup pression. These grants are available to states, counties and cities to support the mitigation, management, and control of fires that threaten to become major disasters.

Broker imposter scams being reported Several attempted broker- imposter scams over the past few months have prompted the Texas Department of Banking to warn that such ruses could pose a significant threat to finan cial institutions and consumers.

According to a TDB news release, “consumers are targeted after conducting searches for high-rate investment opportunities.

Individuals contacted by the fraudsters are often not existing bank customers and are located across the United States.”

Some red flags to look for are cold calls, an incorrect or bogus email address, low-risk/high-reward offers, and unusual funding procedures.

Anyone who is targeted by a broker imposter is encouraged to contact the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority at finra.org.

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

The Lunch & Learn is open to the public and is presented on Wed., June 3,at the Sealy American Legion, 1630 Meyer Street, in Sealy, with doors opening at 11 a.m. for networking opportunities. The panel will convene at 12 p.m. Lunch is provided.

Sponsors are Sealy American Legion, Jordan Ranch, Modern Dentistry and Kreative Ledger Business Solutions.

Court Filings Marriage Licenses Sean Christopher Hurlstone and Kendra Colleen Johnson Austin Michael Watkins and Paige Isabella Saxer

Divorce Filed

Diana Maibelin Chacin Finol and Englis Jose Caravajal Lopez

Divorces Granted

John Henry Martin and Ann Lanier Marilyn Schobel and Michael Schobel

County Court Cases Filed May 15

Nykolas Arik Trevino, reckless driving.

May 20

Adrian Torrentera, resist arrest, search or transport.

Luis Eduardo Alvarez, driving while intoxicated.

Deeds May 14

Deed: Joan F. Pappas to Chris C. Pappas, co-trustee, Lot 1, Piney Creek Subdivision, Section 1.

Deed: Cerda Javier Vazquez to Serina A. Chavira, Multiple Lots/Blocks, J.J. Walker Addition Subdivision.

Deed: Blazek Land Trust to Larry W. Blazek, see recording.

Deed: Blazek Land Trust to Michael C. Blazek, see recording.

Deed: Blazek Land Trust to Patrick A. Blazek, see recording.

May 15

Deed: Wade W. Seelye to Tyler Duane Carlson, Lot 1, Nichols Street Subdivision.

Deed: David Garner to Candice Garner, see recording.

Deed: Alanna Thurman to BSR Properties II LLC, Lot 6, Block 3, Hunters Crossing Subdivision, Section 2.

Deed: Nicholas Incrapera to Clayton Properties Group Inc., Lot 17, Block 1, Hunters Crossing Subdivision, Section 2.

Deed: John Steven Webb to Jerry L. Sisson, Multiple Lots/Blocks, Piney Creek Subdivision, Section 1.

Deed: Trammel Allan Martin to Thomas Michael Haygood, see recording.

Deed: Straussffeld Captial LLC to Nancy Medrano, Multiple Lots/Blocks, J.J. Walker Addtion Subdivision.

Deed: Patrick Haidusek, independent executor to Patrick Haidusek, see recording.

Deed: Jaime Schroeder to Kristi Reddoch, see recording.

Deed: Jessie Kokemor to Molly Ann Alexander, see recording.

May 18

Deed: Marvelyn Rose Granger, trustee to Marvelyn Granger, see recording.

Deed: Pamela S. Cox to Kyle Wayne Cox, see recording.

Deed: The Estate of Aileen Dixon Rains, deceased to Northern Trust Company, see recording.

Deed: Rhys Reichardt to Robert Necker, see recording.

Deed: Shirley Fajkus, independent executor to Shirley Fajkus, see recording.

Deed: Smith Square Family Trust to Douglas Edward Smith, see recording.

Deed: John Michael Dixon to Clay M. Dixon, see recording.

Deed: Brenda Sue Stelwagen to Beverly Ann Dierschke, see recording.

Deed: Vacha Tree Services LLC to Klatt Properties LLC, see recording.

May 19 Deed: Phillip Wayne Robinson to Brandy N. Robinson, Lot 6, Block 3, Brazos Country Subdivision, Section 1.

Deed: Rhonda Ohara to Kristin Martinez, see recording.

Deed: Mandi Swartz to Shawn Jackson, see recording.

Deed: Mandi Swartz to Grady and Tami Ables Family PM Trust, see recording.

Deed: Sarah Supak to Matthew Jackson, see recording.

Deed: Sarah Supak to Grady and Tami Ables Family PM Trust, see recording.

Deed: BSR Properties II LLC to Matthew Bauer, Lot 1, Block 3, Hunters Crossing Subdivison, Section 2.

Deed: Cory Kennedy to Barron Peyton Bullock, see recording.

Deed: Alison McLean to Howard Glenn Frey III, see recording.

Deed: Brianna Aleeza Loera to Andrea May Fonacier, Lot 3, Block 3, Westward Pointe Subdivision, Section 1.

May 20

Deed: Marcia Lee Koenig to O.D. Emery Jr., see recording.

Deed: Priyanka Makthal to AHS Holding Group LLC, Multiple Lots/Blocks, Sealy Subdivision.

Deed: The Estate of Charles Jerome Peters, deceased to Charleen Lorraine Holman, individually, see recording.

COLORADO

Court Filings County Court Cases Filed May 19

Clinton James Kolz, cockfighting: space.owns/ trains/equips.

Gabriel Alexander Ambriz, Count I: unlawfully carrying weapon; Count II: possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Jamal Lockwood, unlawfully carrying weapon.

Floyd Roosevelt Denly Jr., indecent assault.

Diana Michelle Reyes, Count I: resist arrest, search or transport; Count II: unlawfully carrying weapon.

Destin Jermaine Smith-Shields, Count I: unlawfully carrying weapon; Count II: possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Tamika Lashay Mitchell, violate bond/protective order.

Laura Marie Jonas, driing while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without finan cial responsibilities.

Deeds May 14

Special Warranty Deed: Steven W. and Maria I. Corcoran to Steven Corcoran, trustee, Maria Corcoran, trustee and Corcoran Living Trust, 40.00 Acres, WW Thompson League.

Special Warranty Deed: Steven W. and Maria I. Corcoran to Steven Corcoran, trustee, Maria Corcoran, trustee and Corcoran Living Trust, 70.265 Acres, WW Thompson League.

Special Warranty Deed: Scott Allen and Donna D. Saunders Anderson to Scott Allen Anderson, trustee, Donna Saunders Anderson, trustee and Anderson Living Trust, Lot 15, Oakridge Ranch, Section 8, HT&B RR Survey, et al.

Special Warranty Deed: Austin and Emily Latta to Lavonia Diane Eder, 1.2298 Acres, Lot 30, Settlers Reserve, Section 1, Thomas Boatwright Survey.

May 15

Quitclaim Deed: Michelle P. Hurd to Travis A. Hurd, 54.049 Acres, Oliver B. Crenshaw Survey.

May 18 Gift Deed: Dwayne Scott and Audrey Anne Schobel to Samantha Lynn Schobel Alarcon, co-trustee, Ryan Scott Schobel, co-trustee, and Dwayne Scott and Audrey Anne Schobel Family Trust, 1.0 Acre, Alexander Thompson Survey.

Gift Deed: Dwayne Scott and Audrey Anne Schobel to Wagon Trail Ranch LLC, Various Tracts, Alexander Thompson Survey, et al.

Warranty Deed: Bob and Julie Whisnant to High Cotton Business Park LLC, 10.10 Acres, BBB&C RR Co. Survey.

May 19

Warranty Deed:Gabriel Angel Jr. and Maria Yanet Garcia to Ailyn Licona, Lot 5C, Block 24, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Tony F. Rogers and Arline F. Shults to Cathy G. Phillips, 11.74 Acres, J. Smith Survey.

May 20

Deed: Scott R. Kilpatrick to the State of Texas and Texas Transportation Commission, 0.1892 Acre, A. Alley Survey.

Gift Deed: Marilyn Williams to Dennis Russell, Lot 12, Block 59, City of Weimar.

Warranty Deed: Justin and Chelsea N. Rosenauer to Margaret M. Tomlin, 0.286 Acre, Lot 3, Block 49, Weimar.

FAYETTE

Court Filings Marriage Licenses

Kaulin Ray Schubert and Ashlyn Taylor Niewald Elijah Dane Martin and Grace Olivia Green Michael Alexander Morrison and Keleh Mae Barnett

County Court Cases Filed May 20

Louis Cliff Jr., possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Tonnie Tate Robinson, assault causes bodily injury/ family violence.

Priscilla Alvarado, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without finan cial responsibilities.

Crystal Pena Gonzalez, driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content in an amount greater than or equal to 0.15.

Jordan Alisa Willett, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without financial responsibilities.

Ana Luisa Borquez, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without financial responsibilities.

District Court Dispositions May 19

Tarah Ashley Hamilton, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams. Defendant’s case was dismissed.

Deeds May 14

Special Warranty Deed: Michael W. and Betty A. Urban to ET Gathering & Processing LLC, 0.25 Acre, J. Green League, A-189.

Special Warranty Deed: ET Gathering & Processing LLC to Michael W. and Betty A. Urban, 0.43 Acre, J. Green League, A-189.

Special Warranty Deed: Rhonda E. Clemons to B.E.L.&J.E. LLC, 35.277 Acres, S.P. Brown League, A-22.

Special Warranty Deed: SKF Interests Series LLC and BSF Unlimited Series LLC to FSK Interest LLC, see instrument.

Warranty Deed: Marcus Daniel and Hillary Danielle Zarosky to Agustine Arturo and Pennylane Runyon Lara, 26.162 Acres, William H. Toy League, A-105 and Fayette County School Land League, A-182.

Warranty Deed: The Muldoon Camp Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society Chapter 302, and Lawanda S. Tipton and LETSD Living Trust, Lots 1-2, Block 3, Muldoon.

May 15

Deed: Robert Donald and Betty Louise Moore to Robert and Betty Moore Management Trust, Acreage in Montraville Woods League, A-115, see instrument.

Deed: Robert Donald and Betty Louise Moore to Robert and Betty Moore Management Trust, Acreage in Montraville Woods League, A-115, see instrument.

Deed: The Estate of James M. Easterling Jr. and Sally Ann Easterling to James M. Easterling Jr. Family Trust and Sally Ann Easterling, Acreage in J. Dalrymple League, A-166 and M. Muldoon League, A-73, see instrument.

Special Warranty Deed: Robert Donald and Betty Louise Moore to Robert and Betty Moore Management Trust, 9.974 Acres, Montraville Woods League, A-115.

Warranty Deed: The Estate of Douglas Ray and Geri Gene Foreman, Natalie Foreman and Erica Dawn Delgado to Keith M. and Cindy Matocha, 6.400 Acres, J.P. McFarland League, A-232.

May 18

Special Warranty Deed: Fred L. and Patti Hopper to Fred Lynn and Patti Kay Hopper and Hopper Family Trust, see instrument.

Special Warranty Deed: The Estate of Spiro J. Pappas to Harriet Pappas to Michael S. Pappas, Interest in 108.374 Acres, James Bell 1/4 League, A-14.

Warranty Deed: Wil- liam and Rhonda Edwards Living Trust, and William Bond Edwards to William Edwards Maritial Trust and William Bond Edwards, 20.022 Acres, William O. Burnham League, A-124.

Warranty Deed: BSF Unlimited Series LLC and Fritsche Acres Series LLC to Fritsche Acres LLC, see instrument.

Warranty Deed: Brandon and Amarae Tuttle Anders to Mark D. and Kari D. Groschke, 56.131 Acres, James Hunley League, A-209.

Warranty Deed: John Douglas and Tracey Lynn Kent to John Douglas and Tracey Lynn Kent, and Casa Azul Trust, High Hill Ranch Subdivision, see instrument.

May 19

Warranty Deed: Hobart Mckinley IV and Christina Pickett Blackwell to Hank Cejka, 7.595 Acres, J.G. Bearrier League, A-137.

May 20

Warranty Deed: Ronald and Rebecca Kunkel to Tyler Kunkel, 2.0000 Acres, Nathaniel Townsend League, A-103.

Warranty Deed: H.R. Bowers Investments Inc. to Hidden Antler Ranch Trust and Garrett D. Shuffield, 544.8 Acres, John Dalrymple 1/3 League, A-166 and James P. McFarland League, A-232.

Warranty Deed: Pinedo Family Trust, Alba Pinedo and Oakbones LLC to Oakbones Development LLC, 11.045 Acres, James Winn League, A-114.

Each pair must be placed in an individually sealed bag and dropped off at one of the three drop off locations. Three feed stores in the Austin County include Steinhauser's in Sealy, Linseisen’s Feed & Supply in Bellville, and Lindemann Store in Industry, will serve as the dropoff locations.

A limit of 20 pairs per household per month is allowed. All feral hogs must be harvested in Austin County and signed paperwork must be completed when dropping off the ears to collect the bounty.

First place team, Miller Creek Milers logged 2869.62 miles. Second place team, Fayette Savings Bank walked 2841.68 miles, and third place team, Sole Sisters and Brothers, walked 2322.99 miles.

Six teams competed in the eight-week long competition designed to help participants increase their physical activity and create healthy habits, including Weimar Walking Gurus, Seybro Door & Weatherstripping and Bloomers.

Friends of the Weimar Public Library continues to sponsor the program through the Colorado County AgriLife Extension office to encourage par ticipants to increase their regular daily exercise and establish a healthier daily routine.

In addition to improving physical health, the Walk Across Texas program fosters community connections and encourages fun, competitive social interactions and community spirit.

Friends of the Weimar Library encourages community members to consider joining the next Walk Across Texas program not only for the health and well being aspects of the program, but also for the fun, spirited competition the program encourages.

Contestants pay an entry fee of $50, provided by a sponsor (civic club, business, school, or service group). Contestants may select a sponsor or be selected by a sponsor. A headshot photo is required, with permission to be used in media.

Contestants are required to sell a minimum of 25 season passes to the fair.

The contestant who has the highest ticket sales will be crowned junior membership queen and receive a buckle. Past winners will compete for junior queen only. Contestants are expected to represent Colorado County by attending fair functions throughout the year, as well as ride on the Colorado County Fair Float in 80% of area parades.

Also, parents are responsible for helping with maintenance and decora- tion of the fair float for area parades, and to pull float,

if necessary. Contestants should be in good standing within the school and community and promote a positive image for themselves and Colorado County. Contestants must be single, never married or divorced, nor have given birth, or expecting a child. A contestant must be of good moral character and not engage in inappropriate or illegal activities that would be an embarrassment to the fair association or community of Colorado County.

Activities that promote profanity, nudity, illegal drugs, alcohol, or inappropriate social media posts will result in forfeiture of title and awards.

The board of directors reserves the right to make the final decision if this sit uation arises.

The contest will take place on Saturday, Sept. 5, at the Colorado County Fairgrounds “Founders’ Hall” building., following the Junior Miss Contest, and consist of two parts: a private interview, and a public interview with outof- county judges while in formal wear attire. Judges’ decisions are final.

Contestants may sign up online at the Colorado County Fair Website or by contacting Christy Alonso 979-942-0902 or Shannan Gerik 979-732-0865.

The deadline to enter is Sunday, June 28 and a mandatory meeting will be held that day at 5:30 p.m. at the Colorado County Courthouse in Columbus.

Sculptures by local students created from recycled materials advanced to the District and State competitions sponsored by Texas Garden Clubs.

Addie Werland won first place at District IV Coastal Prairie Council and at Texas Garden Clubs in Division 3. Rhonda Schonenberg won first place at District IV and second Place at Texas Garden Clubs in Division 5.

Awards were presented by District IV Director Sharon Wegenhoft, Live Oak Art Center Director Erin Storey and Columbus Garden Club President Regena Williamson.

Keep Columbus Beautiful and Columbus Garden Club will be working with the Live Oak Art Center again to bring the 2026 Recycled Art Show to Columbus in the fall. Students in grades 1 through 8 are eligible to enter.

After what many thought would be a rebuilding year for Schulenburg football in 2025, the Shorthorns and newly hired head coach Clay Ferguson turned in a 6-6 overall record and showed a lot of good flashes in Ferguson's first year.

This team has had good coaching over the past few years, but for a team to play like they did last year in a brand new tenure is a great sign for the future.

Schulenburg looked really fluent in a lot of areas during the 2025 season and under the circumstances, it looks like this team is only going to get better.

In just his second season at the helm, there's a really good chance that Ferguson could make this team into one of the best in the area.

Fayetteville was able to score runs in the beginning, middle, and end of the game while putting on a strong pitching performance and playing a clean game defensively.

Fayetteville scored their first run in the top of the second inning on two

botched balls and a wild pick off throw.

The Lions scored three more runs in the very next inning on a double, a triple from Kole Schmitt, and a base hit from Dylan Hen- neke to make it 4-0.

Fayetteville scored their final run in the top of the seventh inning on two hit by pitches, a double from Schmitt, a walk from Hen -

neke, and a wild throw.

They were able to seal the game in the bottom of the seventh on a fly out a two strikeouts to win it 5-0.

Fayetteville won the second game by a score of 17-8.

Fayetteville will play one game only in the state semi-finals against Groveton Centerville Saturday, May 30 at 7 p.m. at Lake Creek High School in Montgomery.

SOCCER

VOLLEYBALL

FOOTBALL