ten requires understanding who serves on each side of the court room. In Texas, the responsibilities of prosecuting criminal offenses, advising local government bodies, and defending accused individuals are divided among distinct legal roles.

In Colorado County, local structure and state law combine

these responsibilities in unique ways. Here is a comprehensive guide to the attorneys serving the county, its municipalities, and the public.

1. The Colorado County Attorney: A Dual Role In larger Texas metro areas, prosecution duties are split be - tween two separate government departments: a County Attorney, who prosecutes lower-level mis - demeanors and advises local offi - cials, and a District Attorney, who

focuses on state felony prosecu tions. Under the Texas Government Code, rural and mid-sized coun - ties have the authority to merge these operations to streamline costs and administration. Colo rado County operates under this combined system, electing a single District & County Attorney (held by Jay Johannes) Key Responsibilities of the Office

1. County-Wide Prosecution: The office holds dual prosecutorial authority over all state-level crimi - nal charges originating within the county. This ranges from Class A and B misdemeanors (such as trespass or first-offense DWIs) in Constitutional County Court to major felony charges (such as burglary or grand larceny) in state District Court.

2. Legal Counsel for County Government: The County Attor-

ney acts as the chief civil legal ad visor to the Commissioners Court, county department heads, and lo - cal law enforcement agencies.

3. Civil & Protective Actions: The office represents the State of Texas in local Child Protective Services (CPS) interventions, han - dles asset forfeitures, processes hot check restitution, and seeks protective orders for victims of family violence.

Combining these roles pro - vides a single point of contact for local law enforcement officers and crime victims throughout the state judicial process.

2. Municipal Attorneys: Local City Counsel

While the County Attorney

handles state-level enforcement, individual incorporated cities

within Colorado County maintain separate legal representation. Be - cause small rural municipalities rarely require full-time, in-house

legal departments, city councils typically contract with private at -

torneys or regional law firms to fill the City Attorney or Municipal

Attorney role.

Primary Functions of Municipal Attorneys

• Drafting City Ordinances: Writing local legislation cover - ing zoning laws, building safety codes, animal control, and traf fic rules within city limits.

• Government Operations: Advising mayors and city councils during public meet- ings on compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Texas Public Information Act.

• Municipal Court Prosecution: Serving as the city prosecutor for Class C ordi- nance violations and traffic tickets issued by local municipal police.

Municipal Legal Services

• City of Columbus: Uses contracted municipal legal counsel, retaining the law firm Bovey & Cochran, PLLC

• City of Weimar: Appoints a designated City Attorney, contracting with practitioners such as attorney Carl Dawson.

• City of Eagle Lake: Retains specialized municipal government counsel, working with attorneys like Philip J.

Boedeker. 3. Defense Counsel: Public Defenders and Court-Appointed Attorneys While government attorneys represent the State of Texas or local municipalities, defense counsel sits on the opposite side of the aisle representing the accused.

Under the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, any person accused of a crime facing po- tential jail or prison time who cannot afford a private attorney is entitled to legal representation at public expense.

• The Role of Defense Counsel: Defense attorneys investigate charges, review ev idence presented by prosecu- tors, negotiate plea terms, file pretrial motions, and represent clients during bail hearings and trial proceedings.

• How Indigent Defense Works in Colorado County: Colorado County fulfills this constitutional mandate primarily through the Colorado County Public Defender's Of- fice, which employs a full-time public defenders dedicated to representing individuals who cannot afford private legal counsel. To handle caseload spikes, specialized cases, or potential conflicts of inter est, local District and County Courts also maintain a court-appointed attorney system.

Through this supplemental roster, qualified local private defense lawyers are assigned on a case-by-case basis to ensure every eligible defendant receives a complete and constitutionally sound legal defense.

Understanding the sepa- ration between county pros ecutors, municipal attorneys, and defense counsel highlights how checks and balances op - erate within the local legal system. Each plays a vital role in upholding due process, ensuring fair representation, and maintaining public safety throughout Colorado County.

that one of the suspects in a June 2026 jugging offense received

time in Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ).

Eddie Lewis, 43, pled guilty to jugging, evading arrest and theft of property and received five years confinement in TDCJ. In Texas, jugging is a specific criminal offense. Victims are fol - lowed from a financial institution or commercial business with the intent to commit theft or robbery at another location. The suspects watch customers leave banks, ATM's or drive-throughs, or oth - er financial institutions who may have cash on them.

Sealy PD recommendations on how to protect yourself from jugging: - If you believe you are being followed, do not drive directly home.

- Consider driving to a busy, well-lit location or a police station.

- Avoid displaying cash or valuables.

- If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts.

- Never confront or approach a jugging suspect.

- If you see suspicious activity, call law enforcement and provide as much information as safely possible, including the vehicle de -

scription and license plate.

- If you feel you are in imme- diate danger, call 911.

that becomes more than ordinary worry-and why recognizing se -

rious anxiety matters, particularly when someone is struggling emo tionally. But anxiety does not look the same in everyone.

Knowing the Seven Anxiety Disorders and understanding their differences can help replace judg -

ment with compassion.

Seven Different Faces of Anxiety

1. Generalized Anxiety Disor- der (GAD)

A person with GAD may worry excessively about everyday mat - ters but not necessarily based on the reality of a problem – there’s a lot of 'what-iffing'. Focusing on the worst possibilities about health, family, finances, work or general fears of life, worry can be difficult if not impossible to control and may be accompanied by restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, sleep problems and/or difficulty concentrating. There is an unending battle going on in the mind and it is exhausting. Treatment may include ther - apy, medication and changes in lifestyle to healthier routines. The

good news: people can learn to manage worry and improve their quality of life but usually this requires professional help.

2. Panic Disorder Panic Attacks can arrive sud - denly and feel terrifying. A rac - ing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, dizziness or a feeling of losing control may make someone fear they are dy- ing or having a medical emer - gency. Panic Disorder involves recurrent unexpected attacks and ongoing concern or changes in be - havior because of them. Therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication is often required. Understanding the pan -

ic cycle can reduce its power.

3. Social Anxiety Disorder

This is more than shyness or being an introvert. A person may have an intense fear of be- ing judged, embarrassed, reject ed or humiliated. They strive to avoid conversations with strang - ers, meetings, public speaking,

social events or other situations where they feel exposed. Speak- ing in front of any group is often the number one fear. Therapy

and gradual exposure can help, and medication may sometimes

be appropriate on a short-term

basis. With treatment, people can become more comfortable partic -

ipating in life.

4. Specific Phobia

This involves an intense, per- sistent fear of a particular object or situation-such as heights, flying, animals, germs, needles or blood. The fear may lead to significant avoidance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and gradual exposure are common treatments. Fear can be learned-and it can also be unlearned.

5. Agoraphobia A person with Agoraphobia may fear situations where escape or help might be difficult if pan - ic-like symptoms occur. Crowds,

public transportation, lines, open or enclosed spaces, or being out - side the home alone may become frightening. Treatment can include therapy and gradual, individual - ized exposure. Getting a person to see a professional may require a family intervention; thus, the fam- ily goes together to a professional and learns how to construct an in tervention. And a Therapist that will make a home visit, though rare, may be required. Treatment can help expand a world that anx -

iety has begun to shrink.

6. Separation Anxiety Disorder

This involves excessive fear or distress about being separated

from someone to whom a person is strongly attached. It may in - clude fears that something terrible will happen, reluctance to leave home or be alone, sleep difficul - ties or physical symptoms.

It can occur in children and adults, but children most often have a fear that the par- ent or other caregiver will be hurt while away or not return.

Psychotherapy, Play Therapy with children and gradual exposure and family involvement can help. This is not simply being ‘clingy.’

Understanding can open the door to compassion and help.

7. Selective Mutism Usually occurring in childhood, a child may be able to speak normally in comfortable settings but consistently be unable to speak in certain social situations, such as school. The child may appear frozen, with - drawn or extremely quiet. Often, they are viewed as op positional.

Selective mutism is not stubbornness or defiance.

Treatment may include behavioral approaches, Play or Art Therapy, and/or gradual speaking practice; and cooperation among parents, schools and clinicians is essential. If untreated, indi- viduals can continue with this disorder into adulthood.

When anxiety is understood, children (and adults) can be helped rather than pressured or shamed.

Understanding the Cycle Many anxiety disorders involve a similar pattern: ALARM/FEAR/WORRY/ AVOIDANCE OR ESCAPE Avoiding something frightening can bring shortterm relief—but it can also strengthen the fear over time.

That is why compassion mat ters.

We do not need to diagnose someone to recognize that they may be struggling.

The person who avoids

crowds may not be antisocial. The person terrified of flying is not being ridiculous.

The person who repeated ly asks, “What if something goes wrong?" is not simply choosing to worry. And the child who cannot speak at school is not being defiant.

Instead of saying, “Just get over it," we can say: "I can see that you’re strug- gling. How can I help?" Anxiety disorders are real.

They are treatable.

Recovery is possible.

If you want to talk about your anxiety and get support: Call-Chat-Text 988; 24/7 Free Support; Specialist for Teens, Veterans and Spanish Speakers For an immediate life-threatening emergency: Call 911. Let the Dispatch- er know of your situation; ask for the Colorado County Mental Health Deputy.

Help is available. All you have to do is ask and help will be on the way.

This series is designed with the professional in mind. Bring your lunch and learn about a variety of topics that help you have a more productive gar- den, prettier flower beds, or how to better understand your landscape ecosystems.

The topic this month, “Na- tive Fruits" is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct.13, and the guest speaker will be Stephen Janak, extension program specialist. Most struggle to grow apples and peaches, even though they are our favorite fruits. Registration begins at 11:50 a.m. and the program lasts till 12:50 p.m.

The Lunch-N-Learn Series are held at the Fayette County Agricultural Building at 255 Svoboda Ln. in La Grange. All Master Gardener Lunch-N-Learn programs are free. Bring your own lunch and drink. Light refreshments are available from master gardener hospitality hosts.

For information, contact the Fayette County Extension Service at 979-968-5831 or visit http://fayette.agrilife.org.

TCHCC’s famous homemade chicken and dumplings will be served in the Hanslik Banquet Hall beginning at 5:30 p.m., while supplies last.

The biergarten will be stocked all evening with cold pivo, and you may even be able to get a domino game going. Bring your lawn chairs, but please leave your coolers at home!

Saturday’s activities begin at 10 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m. with the CHS Czech Royalty and area dignitaries.

The Ewald Kubota Hospoda will offer cold pivo and musical entertainment by Czech and Then Some and The Lost Cause Band from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The annual Muziky, Muziky event will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. in the Sanford Schmid Amphitheater, with gates opening at 5:30 p.m.

This year’s Legends Series, Part XII, will feature a tribute to Harry Czarnek and the Texas Dutchmen legendary orchestra.

Amphitheater admission is $15, or $10 for students. Children under 12 are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate with cash, check, or credit card.

In addition to enjoying the music, visitors are invited to stroll through the Czech Village, a recreated early-1900s village with homes, barns, and stores. Demonstrations of early Texas life will take place throughout the grounds all day. These include work in the Zapalac Sawmill; operation of the Czech Newspaper Museum press and engine and the new Snokhous Blacksmith Shop; corn shelling and grinding; hay pressing; and the making of textiles, soap, noodles, sausage, and more.

Children’s activities will be offered by the Leo’s Club, including a train ride, as well as the CHS Royalty, KJZT, SPJST, KJT, and RVOS. The popular stein-holding contest will take place at 12:20 p.m., and SPJST will offer Czech trivia in the Hospoda during music breaks. Wagon rides will be available throughout the day, featuring draft horses used at the Houston Rodeo.

New this year is Rybníky, the "fishpond." A 20-foot stock trough will be stocked with

catfish so visitors can try their luck. Hook a fish and tell your own fish story!

An antique farm equipment show sponsored by the South Texas Wheel Spinners & Crank Twisters Club and an antique and classic car show will spread throughout the Czech Village. The Janak Barn & Texas Czech Agricultural Museum displays farm practices and implements from the late 1800s through the 1940s.

Visit the vendors for fresh, stone-ground cornmeal, pickles, jellies and jams, Czech apparel, candles, and much more.

Cold drinks and Czech food will also be available, including sausage, sauerkraut, homemade bread, and Czech BBQ brisket on a bun. Finish your meal with Weikel's koláe!

The Czech Village houses two music museums. The Czech Music Museum of Texas and the Polka Lover’s Club of Texas Museum.

Inside the TCHCC Main Center, stop by the Kopecky Gift Shop to browse new stock, including authentic Czech items, T-shirts, caps, crystal, periodicals, a large selection of music CDs, and Christmas decorations for 2026. Hanslik Hall will host the annual KJT State Taroky Championship.

Stop in to learn about this fun card game.

In the Main Center museum, explore the featured exhibit, “250 Year Czech Amer- ican Legacy," and the newly updated Nás Nový Domov Museum.

Have you always wondered about your Czech roots? Volunteers in the spacious Melnar Library will be available to help with genealogy research.

In case of rain, the festival will move to the Pavilion Hall and Fairgrounds area. There is plenty for the entire family to enjoy. Come Czech out the fun!

Pfeffer is a native Houston- based Texan but continues to manage and develop the Waller County family farm that traces its title back to Jared Groce’s “Old Three Hundred" grant, a founda tional part of Texas history.

With his brother, Kirk, he works to maintain his family’s history that goes back to Noah Smithwick, a participant in the revolution, and later a Texas Ranger.

Readers attest that Shouts From the Republic “reads like an action novel," is a well-sourced and fascinating history of Texas, and presents detailed references that include the well-known and little-known stories of Texas history.

Pfeffer builds the background for Shouts From the Republic, from his avid interest in Texas history inspired by his father’s passion for the state’s past and his personal library that has grown to 2200 books on Texas history, many of which are original editions dating back as far as the 1830’s. He actively engages with community through presentations and discussion about Texas history, urging his audience to recognize their role in preserving liberty for future generations.

The library is excited to close out the 2026 Author Series with Pfeffer and urges you to include this presentation on your calendar of events for October.

Call the Weimar Public Library at 979-725-6608 for information and to RSVP.

SCHULENBURG — The Bishop Forest Class of 1963 will hold a get-together on Friday, Oct. 16 at Oakridge Smokehouse Restaurant in Schulenburg. The gathering will be at noon in the restaurant’s private dining room at the back. All classmates and surviving spouses are invited to attend. If you will be attending, please contact Dottie Mensik at email dottie.mensik1944@gmail.com or cell phone 979-235-0358.

KC TO HOLD MONTHLY BARBECUE

FAYETTEVILLE — The Fayetteville Knights of Columbus monthly barbecue Sunday, Oct. 11. Whole chickens are $12, sausage links are $6 and a slab of ribs is $20. Orders may be placed by calling 979-249-6003. Advance orders are appreciated. Orders may be picked upat the pits behind the church center from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

SHARE YOUR CHRISTMAS

COLUMBUS — The First United Methodist Church at 1229 Milam St. in Columbus will be doing its Share Your Christmas. Anyone wishing to donate to help less fortunate children, call 979-256-7912.

BLOOD DRIVE SLATED

MENTZ — St. Roch in Mentz will hold a blood drive Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 1 to 7 p.m. at the St. Roch Parish Hall in Mentz. For more information, contact Linda Venghaus at 979-877-8984 for details . In memory of Vernon Warschak.

ST. JOHN ROAT BEEF/SAUSAGE MEAL ELLINGER — St. John Lutheran Church in Ellinger will serve roast beef and sausage meal, drive-thru to go only, Sunday, Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meal is $15 per plate. There will be a free-will donation bake sale. Everyone is encouraged to buy advance tickets. A drawing will be held at 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Lucille Koehl at 979-966-7710 or Sharon Fritsch at 979-966-3515.

We had a family reunion this past week.

My mother and uncle were the only representatives from the older generation. Everyone else was a cousin of mine -- except Grace. Grace is the daughter of my cousin, Mary.

Grace is getting married in Ireland soon, but she took time off work to be with relatives, telling family stories and building puzzles at the dining room table.

I don't think I'd have driven across the country when I was her age to spend time with people so much older than myself. But Grace is a special person, and somehow Grace and I got to talking about the round-robin.

The round-robin was a circulating letter that began when my mother was still in college. Before email, when long-distance telephone calls were still expensive, my family would read the letters from everyone on the list, take out their old letter, and send the robin on with a new letter.

This went on for years and years, and the list grew longer and longer as more of my cousins joined the list.

Then email became commonplace, and the family started a private Facebook page, and everyone knew what was going on pretty much when it happened. The robin seemed to have outlived its usefulness. It was lost on several occasions, only to be discovered months later in a pile of mail or under a bed. Finally, it disappeared for good. No one knew who had the final batch of letters in their possession. The round-robin never resurfaced, and that was several years ago.

'Why don't we start it again?' Grace asked.

'Do you think people would want to write?' I said.

'I would.' And I realized that a person Grace's age may never have received a letter in the mail. Bills and birthday greetings and news and gossip are all delivered digitally.

'The news was always so old by the time it arrived,' my cousin Jill complained.

'I don't think it's about news,' I tried to explain.

'I think it's about getting to know each other better,' my cousin Susan said.

I think she nailed it. Because we are good about letting one another know about the big stuff -- the births and deaths and weddings and moves. What the robin did was provide an excuse to simply share what we were doing that day.

It was always a little late and incomplete. But somehow, because it was, it made more of an impression.

'Should we ask if people would like to restart it?' I asked Grace. And Grace said we should.

So that night after dinner, Grace stood up and asked if anyone would like to write in the round-robin again. A few people said no, they didn't want the stress of having that pile of letters show up. A couple said they already knew what was going on and didn't need it.

But a surprising number raised their hands and said yes, they'd like to have the old bird flying again.

I wrote a letter, put it in a big envelope and sent it to Grace. We will see what happens. There are no guarantees that this old form of correspondence will survive.

But I am hopeful. I am hopeful -- not because my remaining aunts and uncles will enjoy it (although I'm sure they will) and not because all my cousins will participate (I'm sure many of them won't).

I am hopeful because there are now a lot of us who, once again, believe it is a very special thing to get a letter in the mail.

Till next time, Carrie

Two live SouthWest RailCams cameras have now been installed at Tower 3 and the Tommy Shults Photo Pavilion in Flatonia.

To view the live feeds, visit southwestrailcams. com, select the RailCams list, scroll to Texas, and choose the Flatonia, La Grange, or Weimar camera locations, or visit the South-West RailCams YouTube channel.

The screen includes many interesting extras, too. You can pull the slider at the bottom of the screen to see the last 12 hours. The audio features train engineers talking to each other and to dispatch.

“Our museum has a monitor in the front window that shows the live feeds 24/7. We are so excited about this new addition to our already awesome museum displays,” said President Greg Kadlub and Treasurer Joanette Kadlub of the Flatonia Rail Museum.

SouthWest RailCams began in 2010, started by Jeff and Christi Rossi as a video service after years of providing railroad radio feeds throughout California, Arizona, and New Mexico.

In addition to their radio feeds, they launched a network of live railroad cameras in 2022, allowing railfans to watch trains from locations across the country without being trackside.

“As railfans ourselves, we wanted to give back to the hobby and create something that would help fellow railfans plan their trips and know when trains might be moving through their favorite locations, especially when spending time out in the heat,” said Christi.

Today, SouthWest Rail-Cams continues to be built by railfans, for railfans. “Our goal remains the same: to share our passion for the railroad hobby, provide useful resources to the railfan community, and help others enjoy the excitement of watching trains whether they are standing trackside or watching from home,” said Christi.

Andrew Baker, vice president of the La Grange M-K-T Depot, Flatonia Rail Museum board member, and moderator for South-West RailCams, said he enjoys helping expand the RailCams network throughout the region.

“I love getting new towns involved in the Rail-Cams,” said Baker. “It allows people of all ages to watch trains from the comfort of their own home, for free, on the SouthWest Rail-Cams YouTube page. I’ve had the pleasure of assisting with the installation of both Flatonia cameras and the La Grange camera.

It’s fun to jump from camera to camera trying to follow a train or find out what different towns’ weather conditions are, especially in the winter when there’s snow on the ground.”

Baker said the cameras not only give railfans a new way to enjoy the hobby but also showcase communities like Flatonia to viewers across the country and around the world.

A patrol unit checked the area and located the vehicle as it entered Sealy jurisdiction.

The vehicle was stopped and, following an investigation, Howard Odean Harris III, 33, was arrested for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and fraudulent use or possession of indentifying information.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Black Jar Honey Contest is a sensory-based honey competition designed to show- case the flavor and aroma of honey while celebrating beekeepers and the diversity of honey produced by honeybees.

The contest featured entries from beekeepers throughout Texas, including Austin, Bexar, Burleson, Colorado, Fayette, Schleicher, Walker, Waller, and Washington counties, with participants sub- mitting their finest honey for judging. Unlike traditional honey competitions, the Black Jar format allows judges to evaluate honey based primarily on taste and aroma, without being influenced by its color or appearance.

“This contest gives honey a chance to speak for itself,” said Stacie Villarreal. “It highlights the incredible diversity of fla vors that bees and beekeepers can produce, from delicate floral notes to rich, complex flavors."

Following the judging, Bob and Diane Mahan from Bexar County were named the 2026 Black Jar Honey Contest winner; judges' notes include that it had a floral and fruity aroma, along with a fruity flavor with floral notes. Our second-place winner was Glen Frey from Walker County; judges' comments were Autumn in a jar! Third place went to Tom Shaughnessy from Austin County, also recognized for an outstanding entry; judges' comments included fruity, cider aroma, and fruity upfront with a warm finish.

In the People’s Choice Award, several people in the extension office tasted the top six honeys and chose Brain Jessogen from Colorado County.

The Black Jar Honey Contest is part of a broader effort to promote beekeeping, educate the public about honeybees and pollination, and encourage appreciation for locally produced honey.

“We are grateful to everyone who entered, judged, volunteered, and supported this year's contest,” said Villarreal. “Events like this bring attention to the hard work of beekeepers and the important role honeybees play in our communities and agriculture.”

For information about the Black Jar Honey Contest, upcoming events, or local beekeeping activities, contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Stacie Villarreal at 979-865-2072 or visit Austin. agrilife.org.

At a gas station in Carrollton, Talarico called on Paxton to condemn the Iran war and join his call to suspend federal gas and diesel taxes. Hours later, Paxton said the gas tax should be permanently eliminated.

Talarico first called for pausing the gas tax in April until prices fell below where they were when the war began in February, when the U.S. and Israel conducted joint air attacks against Iran. He has urged Paxton to join his call several times since. He has called the war a “disaster” and blames it for exacerbating affordability issues for Texas families.

“Ken Paxton supports this disastrous war in Iran that’s driving up our costs,” Talarico said. “Today, I am calling on him to oppose this war and support my plan to suspend the federal gas tax and the federal diesel tax so we can provide Texans some necessary relief.”

Paxton responded by saying he supports suspending the gas tax permanently.

“Repealing those taxes would put money straight back into drivers’ pockets every time they fill up, and Washington should fund roads by cutting waste, not by taxing Texans at the pump,” he said.

The federal gasoline tax is 18.4 cents per gallon of gas and 24.4 cents per gallon of diesel. Nearly all the tax col lected goes in the H ighway Trust Fund for federal highway and mass transit spending.

The average price in Texas last week was $3.94 per gallon for gasoline and $5.90 a gallon for diesel, according to AAA.

Abbott lifts restrictions on dyed diesel Gov. Greg Abbott has lifted restrictions on dyed diesel usually allowed only in off-road and industrial equipment in order to lower diesel prices, the Houston Chronicle reported.

He issued a disaster proclamation last week expanding its use. Dyed diesel is exempt from fuel taxes. Abbott also requested a waiver to the Clean Air Act from the Environment Protection Agency to get around federal limits on which diesel can be sold.

“Texas agriculture and freight run on diesel,” Abbott said in a statement. “Record prices put both industries at risk and raise costs for every Texas family. Farmers and truckers can now use dyed diesel on Texas roads, and fuel, crop, and timber loads can move at a higher weight.”

The three-term governor is locked in a close reelection contest in a midterm election dominated by cost-of-living concerns. His Democratic opponent, state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, had earlier called for suspending all diesel taxes, which Abbott said is not in his power to unilaterally do.

Voter snafu highlights difficulty in registering A Texas backlog of at least 200,000 voter registration applications and updates was caused by a state error. Now election officials are scrambling to respond before voting begins.

Texas is one of only eight state that doesn’t have universal online voter registration. The state Department of Public Safety’s web portal is the only option for registering online or update a voter registration. That option was ordered by a judge after a six-year legal battle.

Votebeat and The Tribune recently reported a flaw in the system where DPS failed to send counties thousands of voter applications and updates submitted through its web portal, dating back to October 2025. There have been bipartisan calls for an investigation into what went awry. State officials so far have provid ed few details.

“We live in a system that has been designed to make things harder for voters,” said Sarah Chen, the senior supervising attorney at Texas Civil Rights Project. “We don’t have online voter registration, except for this teeny little carveout, and because of the teeny little carveout, now we have these technical glitches resulting in this backlog.”

Cruz scores win on college sports bill

The U.S. Senate passed a major bipartisan bill last week that would overhaul the college sports industry — a bill heavily backed by Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz, Politico reported.

The bill was backed by members of both parties and President Trump. It would replace a patchwork of state laws governing student- athlete pay, transfers and eligibility with a single federal set of rules.

“Today the Senate has the opportunity to protect the half-million college athletes and the millions more who follow in their foot- steps," Cruz said in a floor speech last week. “Students are transferring three or four times. Pros are trying to play ball against college kids. Conflicting court de cisions have created a fragmented system — one that no one intended.”

The measure passed 7722 but faces an uncertain future in the House, where Republicans oppose some of its provisions.

Public schools could lose $227M to student voucher exodus Rural school districts in Texas could lose millions of dollars in funding this year after thousands of students turn to using vouchers to leave for private and home schools, the Houston Chronicle reported. A new analysis of state data indicates at least 28,200 public school students took a voucher instead, resulting in a loss of at least $227 million in state funding for their public schools.

While large urban school districts have seen the most students leave, the loss could be felt more acutely by smaller school districts, where losing a handful of students can dramatically affect their budgets.

Of the 725 school districts that saw at least one student take a voucher and leave, 514 — or 70% — have fewer than 2,000 students. Most of those districts don’t have a private school within their boundaries, meaning the children are either being homeschooled or are attending a virtual private school.

Public schools are state funded based on student attendance. The average loss for each student who takes a voucher is $8,200 on average, though it varies depending on the students and where they live.

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 petitions were picked up October 1st, and copies of the petition will be sent to Governor Abbott and Senator Lois Kolkhorst. Austin County’s voices will be heard.

Perhaps you have noticed that Governor Abbott is voicing concern regarding data centers. Still, until he calls for an EMERGENCY SPECIAL SESSION, none of his expressions of concern nor limited regulations will actually ban data centers, battery energy storage systems, 765kV lines, large scale power generation facilities like nuclear plants, wind and solar farms, and other related data center facilities.

Texas desperately need a ban to provide time to evaluate the impact to county infrastructure and public safety systems and put into place much-needed guardrails. Texas’ counties need to be empowered to take part in these decisions.

Ask Governor Abbott to call for an EMERGENCY SPECIAL SESSION immediately, before the November elections. Please continue to let Governor Abbott know how important this is to you. How important this is to Austin County. How important this is to TEXAS.

Governor Abbott Official Contact: Phone: (512) 463-2000 AbbottPressOffice@gov.texas.gov P.O. Box 12428 Austin, TX 78711

Regards, Elizabeth 'Liz' Cubage

“The service that these fire departments and food pantries provide Bluebonnet’s members and communities is vitally important and providing these grants is one of the proudest things we do at Bluebonnet,” said Ben Flencher, chairman of Bluebonnet’s board of directors. “The work they do helps people and families at the time when they need it the most.”

The grants will support the firefighters and first re sponders who devote their time, skill and courage to keeping communities safe. The money will help cover costs such as fuel, equipment, repairs and other critical needs. The grants will help food pantries provide holiday meals during Thanksgiving and Christmas that many families would not have otherwise.

These grants do not come from Bluebonnet members’ bill payments or rates. They are funded through unclaimed capital credit payments to former members that are returned from the State of Texas.

Court Filings Marriage Licenses

Logan Mathew Stilts and Marissa Grace Jack Thomas Herbert Mendenhall and Martha Cecilia Martinez

Divorces Filed

Miranda Lynn Murray and Christopher Aaron Murray La’Kisha Lynelle Barzar and Brian Adam Barzar Donna Annette Garcia and Ruben James Garcia

Divorce Granted

Danyal Davison and April Ann Davison

County Court Cases Filed Sept. 28

Corey Jess Page, unlawfully carrying weapon.

Corey Jess Page, driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content in an amount greater than or equal to 0.15.

Martin Chase Schoppe, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/ suspensions without financial responsibilities.

Christopher Wayne Downey, driving while license invalid with previous convictions/suspensions without financial responsibil ities.

Latrell Dion Cox, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Victor Anthony Provost Jr., possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

District Court Indictments Sept. 23

Jaelan Emanuel Anderson, organized retail theft in an amount greater than or equal o $2,500 but less than $30,000.

Jaelan Emanuel Anderson, aggravated robbery.

James Edward Brewer, evading arrest/detention with vehicle.

Brandon Davon Green, abandon/endanger child intentional/ knowing/reckless/ criminal negligence.

Brandon Davon Green, abandon/endanger child intentional/ knowing/reckless/ criminal negligence.

Ageo Olvera Guerrero, possession of marijuana in an amount greater than 4 ounces but less than or equal to 5 pounds.

Richard Blake Ingram, assault of pregnant person.

Lucious Clarence Josey Jr., evading arrest/detention with vehicle.

MasonAlvin Kaase, criminal mischief in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000.

Mason Alvin Kaase, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $30,000 but less than $150,000.

Mason Alvin Kaase, attempt to commit burglary of habitation.

Arman Karapetyan, theft of cargo in an amount greater than or equal to $200,000.

Rahul Nolastname, theft of cargo in an amount greater than or equal to $200,000.

Rahul Nolastname, theft of cargo in an amount greater than or equal to $200,000.

Virender Phore, theft of cargo in an amount greater than or equal to $200,000.

Virender Phore, theft of cargo in an amount greater than or equal to $200,000.

Javarius Thompson, aggravated robbery.

Isaiah Williams, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 2 in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams.

Dispositions Sept. 29

Abel Gomez, motion to revoke, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. Originally filed Aug. 4, 2019. Defendant’s probation was revoked and sentenced to 35 days jail with credit for 35 days served, and was assessed fees, fines and restitution.

Dakota C. Semmler, aggravated sexual assault of a child. Defendant was acquitted by a jury.

Tanyi Orang Ayuk, attempt to commit forgery of government/national instrument/ money/security. Defendant was sentenced to 30 days jail with credit for 30 days served, and was assessed fees, fines and restitution.

Tanyi Orang Ayuk, attempt to commit bail jumping and failure to appear. Defendant was sentenced to 30 days jail with credit for 30 days served, and was assessed fees, fines and restitution.

Joe Paul Rodriguez, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. Defendant was sentenced to two years state jail with credit for 182 days served, and was assessed fees, fines and resti tution.

Jerome Anthony Jacobs, motion to revoke, fraud use/ possession of identifying information in an amount greater than 5 items but less than 10 items. Originally filed May 24, 2023. Defen dant’s probation was revoked and sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice with credit for 211 days served, and was assessed fees and fines.

Warren Micah Wright, attempt to commit burglary of habitation. Originally filed July 4, 2023. Defendant’s probation was revoked and sentenced to three years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice with credit for 662 days served, and was assessed fees and fines.

Joe Paul Rodriguez, bail jumping and failure to appear, felony. Defendant was sentenced to two year in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice with credit for 165 days served, and was as- sessed fees and fines.

Koby Lyons, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount less than 1 gram. Defendant was sentenced to three years deferred adjudication, and was assessed fees and fines.

Harry Harrison, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. Defendant was sentenced to 10 years probation, and was assessed fees, fines and restitution.

Eddie Lewis, jugging burglary of vehicle. Defendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice with credit for 27 served, and was as- sessed fees and fines.

Eddie Lewis, criminal mischief in an amount greater than or equal to $2,500 but less than $30,000. Defendant was sentenced to five years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Deeds Sept. 23

Deed: Tejano Ventures LLC to Rodolfo Montiel, see recording.

Deed: Lisa M. Villarreal Trust to Mark Anthony Villarreal, see recording.

Deed: Gregorio Munoz to Biliulfo Roman, see recording.

Deed: Shirley Archer to Judith Amber Archer Howell, Lot 29, Block 2, Hunters Crossing Subdivision, Section 1.

Deed: Marvin Ray Schroeder, deceased to Dylan Schroeder, see recording.

Sept. 24

Deed: Marie Louise Milner, independent executor to Marie Milner Survivors Trust, see recording.

Deed: Monika Mikeska to Kandi Turner Kinsey, see recording.

Deed: T Bank to Torans Precision Fabricating Inc., see recording.

Sept. 25

Deed: Matthew A. Kovar to Stephanie Linn Kovar, see recording.

Deed: Martin Arroyo to Paula Cruz Rojche, see recording.

Deed: Starla Dolence to Melanie M. Walker, see recording.

Special Deed: Michael Svinky to Eiger Express Pipeline LLC, Multiple Lots/ Blocks, Sealy Subdivision.

Special Deed: BSR Properties II LLC to Pierre M. Judge, Lot 19, Block 6, Hunters Crossing Subdivision, Section 2.

Sept. 28

Deed: Tana Friedrich Hauerland to Bradley Ventures LP, see recording.

Deed: Allene Samsel Crosby to Coralberry Holdings LLC, see recording.

Deed: Melissa Kretschmer to Salt Fork Resources LLC, see recording.

Deed: Jack W. Brandes to David Zaunbrecher, see recording.

Deed: Jack W. Brandes to Jorge Luis Vega Flores, see recording.

Deed: BSR Properties II LLC to Reta Albright, Lot 7, Block 3, Hunters Crossing Subdivision, Section 2.

Sept. 29

Deed: D.R. Horton Inc. to Chase Ryan Svetlik, Lot 7, Block 4, Westward Pointe Subdivision, Section 3.

COLORADO

Court Filings Marriage License

Dylan Hunter Sharp and Autumn Marie Boehm

County Court Cases Filed Sept. 24

Gaige Gilbert Coronado, assault causes bodily injury.

Jessica Balderas Torres, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $100 but less than $750.

Stephen Randolph Weaver, terroristic threat cause fear of imminent serious bodily injury.

Kyle Steven Navarro, assault causes bodily injury/ family violence.

Meagan Racquelle Koerth, bail jumping and failure to appear.

Isauro Franco III, bail jumping and failure to appear.

Julie Cesar Reyes Calderon, bail jumping and failure to appear.

Ted Eldore Schneider, Count I: unlawfully carrying weapon; Count II: possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Sept. 25

Jacinto Cruz Hernares, resist arrest, search or transport. Jose German Barrientos- Garcia, driving while intoxicated, second.

Sept. 29

Silvano Uribe-Reyes, duty on stiking fixture/high way landscape in an amount greater than or equal to $200.

District Court Dispositions Sept. 30

Mario Misael Castro- George, smuggling of persons. Defendant was sentenced to two years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Alyssa Marie Emmons, fraud use/possession of identifying information in an amount greater than 5 items but less than 10 items. De- fendant was sentenced to five years deferred adjudication, and was assessed fees and fines.

Jose Reyes Garcia, deadly conduct by discharging firearm. Defendant was sen tenced to six years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice probated six years, and was assessed fees and fines.

Stacy Lamar Harris Jr., possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 1/1-B in an amount greater than or equal to 4 grams but less than 200 grams. Defendant was sentenced to four years deferred adjudication, and was assessed fees and fines.

Charles Allen Hubenak, unlawful possession of fire arm by felon. Defendant was sentenced to four years deferred adjudication, and was assessed fees and fines.

Mario Salinas, motion to revoke, driving while intoxicated, third or more. Defendant was sentenced to seven years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Wytrent Brian Spicer, theft of firearm. Defendant was sentenced to four years deferred adjudication, and was assessed fees and fines.

Deeds Sept. 23

Gift Deed: Carolyn Pilsner to Davy Pilsner, 3.00 Acres, Tract 1, John Mc-Crosky Survey, A-31.

Warranty Deed: Isis N. Diaz to Michael Gavin Romo, Lot 3, 28, Block 2, Griffin Subdivision, Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Michael Gavin Romo to Felicia Frazier, Lot 3, 28, Block 2, Grif- fin Subdivision, Eagle Lake.

Sept. 24

Special Warranty Deed: Ruth Laigle Homes, trustee and Trust under the Last Will of George A. Laigle to Angel H. and Jovita Villalon Saucedo, 45.66 Acres, I&GN RR Co. Survey, A-635 and Haywood Moore Survey, A-410.

Sept. 25

Special Warranty Deed: The First State Bank of Columbus to The First National Bank of Bastrop, Lot 3, Block 8, et al.

Warranty Deed: Lola Margaret Collins to Chris and Terra Jo Rhodes, Lot 127, Lake Sheridan Estates.

Sept. 28

Special Warranty Deed: Dax and Michelle Dittrich to Peak Ovine LLC, 14.787 Acres, Jasper A. Sergeant League Survey, A-652.

Special Warranty Deed: Big Easy Ranch Development LLC to Richard J. Andrassy and Emily Robinson, Lot 33, Big Easy Ranch Estates, Section 2, Replat No. 1.

Special Warranty Deed: Elie and Rita Bejjani to Elie and Rita Bejjani, co-trustees and Bejjani Family Revocable Management Trust, 19.47 Acres, W.B. Dewees Survey, A-18 and J. Burnham Survey, A-8.

Warranty Deed: Rucka Enterprises LLC to Rucka Enterprises LLC Series A, 0.213 Acre, Block 35, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Rucka Enterprises LLC to Rucka Enterprises LLC Series B, Lot 5, Block 41, Frazer Subdivision, Patrick Reels Survey, A-475, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Rucka Enterprises LLC to Rucka Enterprises LLC Series C, 0.30 Acre, Block 45, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Rucka Enterprises LLC to Rucka Enterprises LLC Series D, 0.2961 Acre, Block 39, P. Reels Survey, A-475, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Rucka Enterprises LLC to Rucka Enterprises LLC Series E, Block 22, City of Eagle Lake.

Warranty Deed: Lee Frank Beken to Blake A. and Brittani L. Rerich, 5.509 Acres, J. Brennan Survey, A-92.

FAYETTE

Court Filings Marriage Licenses

David Travis Harvey and Rylie Elizabeth McGee Imed Boudidah and Yvette Hawkins Epstein Nicholos Lee Malota and Sabina Evita Garcia Freddy Andy-Edward Meek and Kate LAuren Eaves

Divorces Filed

James Michael Null and Kimberly Ranee Null Annulment — Samantha Merecki and Philip Mazin

County Court Cases Filed Sept. 23 Noe R. Lopez, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Iman Sarah Chamich, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Dania Guadaupe Vela, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Joseph David Mena, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Joe Xavier Sosa, driving while intoxicated.

Bradley Michael Hamil- ton, duty on striking fixture/ highway landscape in an amount greater than or equal to $200.

Sept. 24

Hailey Maidlow, nursing regulations Elizabeth Ann Felix, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 2 ounces.

Andres Jose Cardenas, criminal mischief in an amount greater than or equal to $100 but less than $750.

District Court Cases Filed Sept. 24

Hugo Rafael Rebollar, theft of property in an amount greater than or equal to $30,000 but less than $150,000.

Andrew Edward Wilson, aggravated assault with deadly weapon.

Leonardo Govea-Romero, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 2 in an amount less than 1 gram.

Blake Ryan Marek, possession of controlled substance Penalty Group 2 in an amount greater than or equal to 1 gram but less than 4 grams.

Omar Alejandro Espinoza- Paniagua, evading arrest/ detention with vehicle.

Deeds Sept. 23

Deed: Erwin James Zoch Revocable Living Trust and Erwin James Zoch to Ranae W. Zoch Wolff, Surface Only, 12.22 Acres, being Tract 2B, Elizabeth Campbell League, A-26.

Warranty Deed: Waldo R. Boehm to Waldo R. Boehm Real Estate Trust and Waldo R. Boehm, Surface Only, Acreage in George W. Keene League, A-222 and Edward Y. Keene League, A-221, see instrument.

Warranty Deed: Jared Michael and Rebekah Hernandez Spaulding Brannon to Cesar and Sara Garza, 0.868 Acre, being Lots 178-180, Section 2, Clear Lake Pines Subdivision.

Warranty Deed: Robust Solutions LLC to Highland Creek Cabin LLC, 20.29 Acres, RJ Ross League, A-271 and Eases, J.R.J. Ross 1/3 League, A-271.

Sept. 24

Gift Deed: Sharon Olle A. Rode to Michael W. Olle, Lots 15-20, Block 26, Schulenburg.

Warranty Deed: Carol Robert, Ross Edward and William Dunning to Stanley Boyd Spencer, et al, 23.12 Acres, J.G.W. Pierson League, A-84.

Warranty Deed: Gary D. and Julia K. Meade to Gary Don and Julia Kay Meade and Meade Trust, 23.00 Acres, Jesse S. Counsel League, A-36.

Warranty Deed: Gary D. and Julia K. Meade to Gary Don and Julia Kay Meade and Meade Trust, 30.45 Acres, J.S. Counsel League, A-36.

Warranty Deed: Susan Michalk Richards to Brittany Marie Boehm, 11,312 sq. ft., being Lot 2, Michalk Resubdivision, Hilltop Addition, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Gerald and Mary Frances Vaughn to LDCC Investments LP, 17.873 Acres, J.M. Burton 3/4 League, A-25.

Sept. 25

Warranty Deed: Dustin and Theresa McKee to Break Right Ranch LLC, 10.000 Acres, Franklin Lewis League, A-64.

Warranty Deed: Richard W. and Bobbie Sue Fajkus to Joel Tamez and Berenice Tamez Socorro, 5.433 Acres, William H. Toy League, A-105.

Warranty Deed: Ciernio Balderas and Micaela Balderas Garcia to HG Sheet Metal LLC, 15.251 Acres, C. Kenner League, A-341.

Sept. 28

Special Warranty Deed: August A. Fuchs, et al to August A. Fuchs, and Marty Lynn and Ashley D. Oeser, 54.930 Acres, 54.930 Acres and 40.000 Acres, J.G. Wilkinson League, A-108.

Special Warranty Deed: Gary Don and Ronda Kay Von Minden Nietsche to Jace Ben and Carisa Kay Clapsis Nietsche, Lot 3, Block 1, Weikel-Schiller Addition, La Grange.

Special Warranty Deed: Gary Don and Ronda Kay Von Minden Nietsche to Jace Ben and Carisa Kay Clapsis Nietsche, 101.97 Acres, William Nabors League, A-251 and Ease.

Special Warranty Deed: Delphine Doris Rohan to Richard Alan, Michael Louis and Dennis Wayne Rohan, Lot 1, Block 7. Weikel-Schiller Addition, John Eblin League, La Grange.

Warranty Deed: Michael Louis Robbins Revocable Trust and Michael Louis Robbins to Jeremy Wayne Wells, et al, 2.12 Acres, Elizabeth Devers League, A-40.

Warranty Deed: Jeremy Wayne Wells, et al to Michael Louis Robbins, 0.80 Acre, F.W. Grassmeyer League, A-195.

Warranty Deed: Thomas Frederick Beuscher and Ann Humphreys Radcliffe to Sam Garland Jr. and Elizabeth Jane Miller, 30.74 Acres, William J. Russell League, A-89.

Warranty Deed: William C. Buschardt III to WCB Living Trust and William C. Buschardt III, 25.779 Acres, J.G. Wilkinson League, A-108.

Warranty Deed: John E. and Ruth A. Orsak to Ja- cob Richard Satterfield and Cheyenne Kelli Orsak, 2.764 Acres, John Vanderworth League, A-312.

Warranty Deed: Alejandro V. and Rosa M. Raygoza to Jose Luis and Erika L. Velazquez, 3.000 Acres, John H. Whitehurst League, A-324.

Sept. 29

Gift Deed: Dallas Anderson Jr. to Dallas Anderson III, 1.500 Acres, T.O. Berry League, A-127.

This is the tenth year for the Fayette Heritage Museum and Archives to participate in this event with free programming that includes something for everyone. You may attend one or all the sessions. Beginners are welcome and local genealogists will be on hand to answer questions. Handouts, coffee and snacks will be provided.

•Building Your Digital Family History Archive with EvaAnne Johnson, Genealogy and Local History Librarian at Wilmette Public Library, kicks off the event from 9 to 9:50 a.m.

While we are researching our family tree, we often collect a lot of digital files - from downloaded records and emailed documents to scanned photographs and mobile screenshots. What should we do with all these digital files, and how can we keep them organized?

This presentation will cover the basics of digital preservation and outline practical steps for creating a well-structured Digital Family History Archive to safeguard your genealogy work.

•Researching Your Scottish Ancestors with Erika A.

Ward, PGCERT (Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies), from 10 to 10:50 a.m. Learn the basics of the legal system. Do you have ancestors who emigrated from Scotland? Are you unsure of which records exist, how to use them, or where to find them? This class explores the rich landscape of Scottish historical sources- including census, church, civil, and immigration/ emigration records- to help you uncover the stories hidden in your Scottish heritage.

•Cluster Research, or Discovering You’re Related to the Whole Block with Jessica M. Trotter, Genealogy Presenter and Researcher, from 11 to 11:50 a.m.

This session includes tips, tricks, and examples of how researching the neighborhood and other associates of your ancestors can further your own research.

•Unlocking Your Roots: Starting Your Genealogy Journey with Barbara Coakley, Genealogy Researcher, Speaker, Author, from 12:50 to 2:10 p.m. Learn how to start your genealogy journey or update your skills using a repeatable research process. Begin with what you already know, frame your research question, explore essential records, and organize your discoveries.

•Beyond the Family Tree: An Introduction to Oral History for Genealogy with Adrienne Cain Darough, MLS, CA Assistant Director and Clinical Associate Professor, Institute for Oral History, from 2:25 to 3:15 p.m. Genealogy often begins with documents, but it becomes powerful through storytelling. This presentation explores the fundamentals of oral history and how intentional interviewing can uncover context, culture, and connections that traditional records may miss. Learn how to plan, conduct, and preserve meaningful family interviews.

•Texas & Southern Genealogy Resources at the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History with Margaret Schlankey, Assistant Director for Public Services, Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, UT, from 3:30 to 4:20 p.m. The Briscoe Center has a vast collection of resources helpful to genealogists with roots in Texas and the American South. This presentation will go over what's available and how to access them.

•Researching Your Revolutionary War Soldier: A Case Study with Craig R. Scott, CG, FUGA, President and CEO of Heritage Books, Inc., from 4:35 to 5:25 p.m. A Revolutionary War ancestor can be a goldmine of information if you know where to look. This lecture aims to examine types of service, compiled military service records, pension applications, settled accounts, and where other documents can be found using a step-bystep methodology in a case study.

•Gen Z + Genealogy: Getting the Younger Generation Interested in Genealogy Research with Carl Smith, MLIS, Manager of the Family History Research Center at the Clayton Library Campus, from 5:40 to 6:30 p.m. Do you have a passion for family history but are worried about who carries the genealogical torch after you? Join in for a special presentation on Gen Z + Genealogy where we’ll discuss tips and tricks on how to foster understanding, communication, and participation with the younger generations, and ideas to better market genealogy to different age groups in ways that can increase interest in the topic all around.

You must reserve a seat for the event, which will take place in the Museum and Archives above the Fayette Public Library at 855 S. Jefferson St. in La Grange. Please contact Rox Ann Johnson and Wyatt Walker at archives@ cityoflg.com or call 979968-3765 and press 2 when prompted.

30, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the KC Community Center at 190 S.

Brown St. in La Grange.

The free event is designed to help individuals protect themselves from identity theft by securely shredding confidential documents. Cooperative members are encouraged to bring paper documents they no longer need and have them professionally shredded on-site.

Paper documents will be accepted for shredding. Items such as cardboard, binders, hard drives, electronics, CDs, floppy disks, and other non-paper materials cannot be accepted.

In the cooperative spirit of neighbors helping neighbors, donations will be accepted during the event to benefit Senior Connections, a local organization serving older adults in the community.

“Co-op Shred Day is a practical way for cooperatives to serve their members while helping protect personal information,” said Fayette Electric Cooperative General Manager and CEO Doug Lambert. “It’s also an opportunity to celebrate National Co-op Month and the cooperative values of community commitment and member ownership.”

“At CVTC, we are committed to providing services that help protect and support our members,” said Colorado Valley Telephone Cooperative General Manager Kelly Allison.

“Co-op Shred Day is a simple but important way we can work together to help safeguard personal information while giving back to organizations that make a difference in our communities.”

October is National Co-op Month, a time to recognize the cooperative difference and the positive impact cooperatives make in the communities they serve. FEC and CVTC encourage members to take advantage of this free service while supporting a worthwhile local cause.

For more information, visit Fayette Electric Cooperative or https://www.cvctx.com

This scholarship is designed to support individuals seeking to further their careers through continued education. If you live within Weimar or Schulenburg independent school districts or your work serves residents in these areas, you may be eligible to apply.

While professionals in education and healthcare are strongly encouraged to apply, this opportunity is open to individuals across all fields.

"We believe it's never too late to pursue education, whether it's a certification, a new degree, or a change in direction. By supporting professionals who choose to invest in their learning, we’re not only helping individuals grow, we’re strengthening the future of our entire community. When individuals thrive, our community thrives.” said Melanie Ramirez, program director.

Deadline to Apply: Dec. 1, 2026 Interested applicants should visit stanzelfamilyfoundation.org/scholarships and click Apply Today under Professional Scholarships or reach out directly to Melanie Ramirez at melanie@stanzelmuseum.org for more details on eligibility and the application process.

The closure is expected to remain in place for approximately three months

(weather permitting). The contractor for the project is Hunter Industries of San Marcos. The project cost is $1,090,000.

Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time during the construction period.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Public Infor- mation Officer Lucea'n Kuykendall at Lucean.

Kuykendall@TxDOT.gov or 361-293-4436.

The cemetery's first known burial dates back to 1852, and the cemetery was designated a Historic Texas Cemetery in October 2009.

For many years, access inside the cemetery could be difficult after periods of rain. The newly installed road will make it easier and safer for families, visitors, funeral processions, and those caring for the cemetery to reach burial sites.

The Alleyton Cemetery Association stated they are deeply grateful to Webber for its generosity and assistance with this important improvement.

“This road means so much to us,” said Theresa Williams, president of the Alleyton Cemetery Association. “After so many years, we are thankful to finally have better access throughout the cemetery, especially during wet weather. We sincerely appreciate Webber and the workers who helped make this possible.”

The Alleyton Cemetery Association remains committed to preserving, maintaining, and honoring this historic burial ground for present and future generations.

They struggled to start the season and also struggled towards the end of August, but they’ve recently won seven out of their last eight games, so they’ve obviously made some adjustments to get on the winning side of things.

Head coach Lauren Hoffman knows what it’s like to take this team well into the playoffs and it seems like they've figured some things out in order to win more games.

If the Lady Bulldogs stay on this kind of pace, they could definitely be a team to look out for come playoff time.

They’ve kind of gone back and forth with their wins and losses, but they’ve won enough to have a winning record and they actually have a really good record in district play.

Led by head coach Donald Zapalac, Schulenburg is known for producing winning seasons. They are also known for doing well in the playoffs and making state championship appearances, so this is looking like another Lady Horns team that knows how to win and will be just fine when it comes to the postseason.

Sealy had a great start to the season and had a winning streak of 11 games throughout the month of August. They’ve remained consistent and even went on a four-game win streak in September.

This team has a bunch of upperclassmen that includes three seniors, so their leadership is definitely playing a part in their success.

The Lady Tigers volleyball program has been very good in recent years and it’s a great sign that they’ve been able to continue their winning ways.

According to DCTX writer Carter Yates, Columbus was the preseason Class 3A Division I State Championship pick in Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine.

But Columbus has exceeded even our admittedly lofty expectations, beating five Class 4A teams in a row. Those wins didn’t come against slouches either.

Preseason top-ten Bay City was the opener, perennial power Bellville was on the schedule, and always-salty Needville loomed.

But it’s not just the wins — it’s the dominance with which Columbus has won. Bellville was the only game within one score.

Keep in mind, Columbus is doing this while losing star wide receiver Braylon Fisher, switching last year’s District Offensive MVP, Jack Schobel, from quarterback to wide receiver, and playing two quarterbacks in sophomore David James and Peyton Blakeman.

Running back Demariye “Doc” Cantu has been the season’s breakout star, rushing for over 270 yards and four or more touchdowns in three consecutive weeks.

The line play has been excellent, as expected, with Texas commit Keyon Hemphill-Woods and Christopher Quinn.