June 29, 2016 Issue

July 11-14 July 18-21 July 25-28 This is available for all incoming 7th-12th boys and girls. This free camp will be from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Our 7-8 year-old boys (pictured) concluded their 2016 season as Champions of the Fredericksburg tournament this past weekend. An epic ending to a great season for these young men. Mason was undefeated in the tournament with early round wins over Kerrville and Burnet leading them to a match-up against Llano for the opportunity to play in the finals.

Last Friday, June 24th, the two-year old class from Steady Steps came to visit the Mason Square Museum. Braxtyn, Lathan, Gaige, Jax, Cash, Holden, Payden, and Benjamin were extremely excited to see the “rocks”, the antique oxen yoke, the guns, and the Mammoth tusk. The children touched everything touchable (note fingerprints on glass displays), and did a great job of oohing and aahing. Their enthusiasm was contagious as Grover, on the arm of Rosemary Davis, talked to the children about Maso ...

The Seaquist House, 405 Broad St., will be offering tours the first two Saturdays in July – the 2nd (4th of July weekend) and the 9th (Roundup) from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. So far we have excellent attendance at the tours which began in March and folks are coming from all over the place!

The largest group of golfers this year, 30 of them, showed up for last night’s Scramble! Divided into 7 teams, they spread out over the course and began chasing those golf balls around. By about 7:30, the groups started drifting back to post their scores. The James Toeppich team of Bobby, Connie and Randy carded a -8, and that was good enough to place and keep them firmly in first place.

The Mason County Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to join us for our 52nd Annual Round-up Celebration! Kick off for this weekend long celebration will begin Thursday, July 7th with the Mason County Team Roping Event sponsored by Karen and Dennis Townsend. For more information, please call Dennis Townsend at 325-456-8635. On Friday July 8th, the Mason Rodeo Association will host a 4-D barrel race beginning at 7:30 p.m.

The Mason County Farm Bureau is a voice for Texas agriculture, a supporter of local youth and an integral part of our community, according to the president of the local farm and ranch organization. “I sometimes think we’ve been a part of our community for so long that sometimes people forget why we’re here,” Shannon Worrell, Mason County Farm Bureau president, said.

Roger Q. Burtner Rev. Roger Q. Burtner, of Brady, passed away on Thursday, June 23, at the age of 97. Rev. Burtner is survived by his wife Jane Marie Burtner, of Brady, three children : George Dworsak of Brady, Robert R. Dworsak of Bloomsburg, PA and Christine Farner and husband Cody of Fredonia, four grandchildren : Matthew Dworsak, Mallory Bottesch, Jessie Farmer and Brant Farmer and four great-grandchildren: Bryce and Emmett Dworsak and Colin and Declan Bottesch.

AUSTIN, Texas—The Texas Historical Commission (THC) has recognized the Mason County Historical Commission (CHC) with a Distinguished Service Award for the 2015 year of service. The THC issues Distinguished Service Awards each year to CHCs that document well-rounded programs of history- and preservation-related projects. The award (WAS or WILL BE) presented during a meeting of the county commissioners court on June 27th to commend the CHC’s dedicated service and stewardship of Texas’ uniqu ...

Runners from across the state will head to Mason, Texas on Saturday, September 24, 2016, for the 10th Annual Gem of the Hill Country 5K & 10K Run/Walk. The race will start at 8:00 a.m. in front of the M. Bevin Eckert Library just south of the town Courthouse and Square. The 5K & 10K courses meander through the charming and historic neighborhoods of Mason, featuring hills, valleys, and some of the most scenic views in the Texas Hill Country.

According to a city ordinance that has been in effect since 1950, firing or exploding fireworks within the City is prohibited; however, this is enforced for the most part only when a complaint is received. Complaints can be called into Mason Sheriff's office dispatch at 325-347-5252. EXTREME CAUTION should be taken when using fireworks.

Pari-mutuel horse racing returns to Fredericksburg this weekend, with two days of live racing at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds on Saturday and Sunday, July 2 and 3. Admission to the races is $7 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12 years of age, and free for children 5 and under.

Those wishing to enter the Dr Pepper Open Tennis Tournament need to get their entries in as soon as possible. The tournament will be July 14-16 for Juniors and July 16-17 for Adults. The entry deadline is Tuesday, July 5th. You may go online and enter the tournament at www.masontennisassociation.com or mail entries to Mason Tennis at PO Box 865, Mason 76856.

A free health and wellness program offered by Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. Methodist Healthcare Ministries and the Texas A&M AgriLife County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences invite you to take part in U.S. Diabetes Conversation Maps, a free diabetic education program. If you have diabetes, are predisposed to diabetes, take care of someone with diabetes, or are just interested in knowing about diabetes, please join us this summer!

The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the Hill Country Criminal Defense Lawyers Association invite Mason County residents to a special event on Friday, July 1st at 1:30 p.m. on the north steps of the Mason County Courthouse. Just as they did last year, there will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps.

Great Summer Escapes As soon as that final school bell rings in Mason County, it seems the travel plans kick into full gear. There's a bit of schedule juggling as end-of-year activities wind down. Then, we have to determine if there are vacancies at our preferred destinations, are there folks available to check on the pets, feed the livestock, pick up the mail and water the lawn.

GREAT FAMILY COMPANION!!! BUDDY - 1 Year Old Male -Mix Breed Sweet, loving and playful! Buddy is just a great all around family dog. He is housebroken and crate trained. Buddy loves to play with other dogs and has done well with his foster cats. He is an energetic boy that would do well in a home with another dog for him to play with, or a home where he will be given a big backyard and plenty of exercise.

The Mason Lions Club met Tuesday, June 21st, for it’s weekly luncheon meeting. There were 32 members and 5 visitors in attendance. Among the visitors were Will Smith from the Austin Lions Club, Leslie Cope, and Miley Gibbs. “Boss” Lion Joel Kuykendall passed around a sign up sheet for volunteers for the hamburger cook at roundup and Marty Bentson, chairman of the 5K/10K run/walk event passed around a sign up sheet for that event. Past District Governor Al Owen presented the program which ...

June is Audiobook month, and we’re celebrating by adding more new bestseller books on CD to our collection and new downloadable audiobooks to our digital Overdrive collection. If you’re commuting, traveling, or working, audiobooks can make your day so enjoyable! Audiobooks: The Escape by David Baldacci (CD F BAL Pul.3) The First Hostage by Joel C.

Hit parade Often, when people find out I write for newspapers and magazines and AlGore’s interwebnets, they say, “Oh, you’re a journalist.” Every time that happens I say, “No, I’m a writer.” OK, sometimes I tell them I’m a dolphin waxer, but for some reason no one believes me. Except for that real estate lady in Branson, Missouri.

In the early seventies, I would listen to a talk show on the radio, as I drove into work in downtown Austin. It was the Sammy Allred and Bob Cole show. Sammy was so rude and obnoxious, that by the time I got to work, I was in a really bad mood.

Humor In Real Life... In the company of three physicians and a veterinarian recently during a three-day span, I queried their personnel about day-to-day occurrences that make them smile. In three cases, answers came quickly. The vet, however, thoughtfully detailed a foul-up at a clinic decades ago. Hearing the account makes me wonder if it is included in lectures at the mother school of veterinary medicine, Texas A&M University.

Green Chile Cheddar Burger Foil Packs With the 4th of July around the corner it gets me to thinking about grilling. With minimum effort and practically no clean up this foil pack makes for the ultimate week night meal or summer party main attraction. You can serve with your favorite chips or grilled vegetables.

Every year at this time one of the most important issues we at the City deal with and have to communicate to our residents is about the water that we supply. One of the main issues for the past several years has been the hot dry weather and the habit we all have of outdoor watering to keep our landscapes green.

I hope you have great plans for July 4th. I better get busy if I intend to have plans. We have bid farewell to our pastor this week. First, we had a fellowship party at Stephen and Joyce Mutschink’s home on Thursday. Lots of good food and fellowship. Sunday, we had a musical morning.

When the moon in the sky Looks like a big pizza pie... It might be “amore.” But for sure, it’s time to go to Lea Lou Co-Op. Night or day. It’s always time for pizza. Build it and they will come. Just tell the friendly staff what you want. They will build it to your liking. One flat price. No extra for toppings. So pile it on. Fresh. And lots to choose from. Quick. Good. And salads too. A fun place to eat. Plus a beer and wine bar. Plenty of room to spread out. Big round tables. Perfect ...

On Saturday, June 11th, members of the Anderegg Family Reunion met at the graveside of their ancestor at Salt Branch in extreme northwest Gillespie County. John Ulrich Anderegg (1819-1900) served in the Mason County Minute Men under Lt. W. Charles Lewis, April 4 - June 15, 1860, to protect the homes on the Texas frontier during the Civil War.

Thom Canfield, President of Mason Bank, is proud to announce new employees and promotions. Jennie Armes has been with the bank since 2002. She is a 2002 graduate of Angelo State University with a degree in Finance with Real Estate. In addition to her role as teller and Compliance Officer Jennie has now assumed the role of Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) Officer.

A few weeks ago the congregation of Art UMC was saddened to learn that its Pastor, the Rev. John Alsbrooks, will be retiring effective June 30, 2016. Rev. Alsbrooks has been a Minister of the United Methodist Church for 23 years, but has only been Art’s Pastor for two years.

During the week of June 12th to June 18th, Kendra Klaerner, Steeley Smith and Justyn Tedder represented Mason, Mason County and Mason ISD at the 2016 American Legion Auxiliary’s 2016 Bluebonnet Girls State Program, held at Texas Lutheran University at Seguin. Their attendance was sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Fort Mason Unit 285 here in Mason and their fees were underwritten by the generous donations of J.K.

During the week of June 12th to June 18th, Kendra Klaerner, Steeley Smith and Justyn Tedder represented Mason, Mason County and Mason ISD at the 2016 American Legion Auxiliary’s 2016 Bluebonnet Girls State Program, held at Texas Lutheran University at Seguin. Their attendance was sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Fort Mason Unit 285 here in Mason and their fees were underwritten by the generous donations of J.K.

Those wishing to enter the Dr Pepper Open Tennis Tournament need to get their entries in as soon as possible. The tournament will be July 14-16 for Juniors and July 16-17 for Adults. The entry deadline is Tuesday, July 5th. You may go online and enter the tournament at www.masontennisassociation.com or mail entries to Mason Tennis at PO Box 865, Mason 76856.

Blixen Hofmann and Faith Ingracia competed at the NBTA State Competition in San Antonio. Blixen did an amazing job by placing 3rd in her State Solo routine, this being Blixen’s very first Competition. Great job! Faith Ingracia placed 4th in the Miss Majorette of Texas Pageant, 3rd in Fancy X-Strut, 4th in State Solo and 1st in Two Baton. In May, Faith also competed at State UIL receiving a Division One, for the fourth year in a row, in her UIL Routine. As Faith goes on to become the Feature T ...

Our 7-8 year-old boys (pictured) concluded their 2016 season as Champions of the Fredericksburg tournament this past weekend. An epic ending to a great season for these young men. Mason was undefeated in the tournament with early round wins over Kerrville and Burnet leading them to a match-up against Llano for the opportunity to play in the finals.

GREAT FAMILY COMPANION!!! BUDDY - 1 Year Old Male -Mix Breed Sweet, loving and playful! Buddy is just a great all around family dog. He is housebroken and crate trained. Buddy loves to play with other dogs and has done well with his foster cats. He is an energetic boy that would do well in a home with another dog for him to play with, or a home where he will be given a big backyard and plenty of exercise.

A few weeks ago the congregation of Art UMC was saddened to learn that its Pastor, the Rev. John Alsbrooks, will be retiring effective June 30, 2016. Rev. Alsbrooks has been a Minister of the United Methodist Church for 23 years, but has only been Art’s Pastor for two years.

Thom Canfield, President of Mason Bank, is proud to announce new employees and promotions. Jennie Armes has been with the bank since 2002. She is a 2002 graduate of Angelo State University with a degree in Finance with Real Estate. In addition to her role as teller and Compliance Officer Jennie has now assumed the role of Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) Officer.

July 11-14 July 18-21 July 25-28 This is available for all incoming 7th-12th boys and girls. This free camp will be from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the Hill Country Criminal Defense Lawyers Association invite Mason County residents to a special event on Friday, July 1st at 1:30 p.m. on the north steps of the Mason County Courthouse. Just as they did last year, there will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps.

A free health and wellness program offered by Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. Methodist Healthcare Ministries and the Texas A&M AgriLife County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences invite you to take part in U.S. Diabetes Conversation Maps, a free diabetic education program. If you have diabetes, are predisposed to diabetes, take care of someone with diabetes, or are just interested in knowing about diabetes, please join us this summer!

Those wishing to enter the Dr Pepper Open Tennis Tournament need to get their entries in as soon as possible. The tournament will be July 14-16 for Juniors and July 16-17 for Adults. The entry deadline is Tuesday, July 5th. You may go online and enter the tournament at www.masontennisassociation.com or mail entries to Mason Tennis at PO Box 865, Mason 76856.

Pari-mutuel horse racing returns to Fredericksburg this weekend, with two days of live racing at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds on Saturday and Sunday, July 2 and 3. Admission to the races is $7 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12 years of age, and free for children 5 and under.

According to a city ordinance that has been in effect since 1950, firing or exploding fireworks within the City is prohibited; however, this is enforced for the most part only when a complaint is received. Complaints can be called into Mason Sheriff's office dispatch at 325-347-5252. EXTREME CAUTION should be taken when using fireworks.

Runners from across the state will head to Mason, Texas on Saturday, September 24, 2016, for the 10th Annual Gem of the Hill Country 5K & 10K Run/Walk. The race will start at 8:00 a.m. in front of the M. Bevin Eckert Library just south of the town Courthouse and Square. The 5K & 10K courses meander through the charming and historic neighborhoods of Mason, featuring hills, valleys, and some of the most scenic views in the Texas Hill Country.

The Mason County Farm Bureau is a voice for Texas agriculture, a supporter of local youth and an integral part of our community, according to the president of the local farm and ranch organization. “I sometimes think we’ve been a part of our community for so long that sometimes people forget why we’re here,” Shannon Worrell, Mason County Farm Bureau president, said.

The Mason County Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to join us for our 52nd Annual Round-up Celebration! Kick off for this weekend long celebration will begin Thursday, July 7th with the Mason County Team Roping Event sponsored by Karen and Dennis Townsend. For more information, please call Dennis Townsend at 325-456-8635. On Friday July 8th, the Mason Rodeo Association will host a 4-D barrel race beginning at 7:30 p.m.

The Seaquist House, 405 Broad St., will be offering tours the first two Saturdays in July – the 2nd (4th of July weekend) and the 9th (Roundup) from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. So far we have excellent attendance at the tours which began in March and folks are coming from all over the place!

Roger Q. Burtner Rev. Roger Q. Burtner, of Brady, passed away on Thursday, June 23, at the age of 97. Rev. Burtner is survived by his wife Jane Marie Burtner, of Brady, three children : George Dworsak of Brady, Robert R. Dworsak of Bloomsburg, PA and Christine Farner and husband Cody of Fredonia, four grandchildren : Matthew Dworsak, Mallory Bottesch, Jessie Farmer and Brant Farmer and four great-grandchildren: Bryce and Emmett Dworsak and Colin and Declan Bottesch.

When the moon in the sky Looks like a big pizza pie... It might be “amore.” But for sure, it’s time to go to Lea Lou Co-Op. Night or day. It’s always time for pizza. Build it and they will come. Just tell the friendly staff what you want. They will build it to your liking. One flat price. No extra for toppings. So pile it on. Fresh. And lots to choose from. Quick. Good. And salads too. A fun place to eat. Plus a beer and wine bar. Plenty of room to spread out. Big round tables. Perfect ...

I hope you have great plans for July 4th. I better get busy if I intend to have plans. We have bid farewell to our pastor this week. First, we had a fellowship party at Stephen and Joyce Mutschink’s home on Thursday. Lots of good food and fellowship. Sunday, we had a musical morning.

Green Chile Cheddar Burger Foil Packs With the 4th of July around the corner it gets me to thinking about grilling. With minimum effort and practically no clean up this foil pack makes for the ultimate week night meal or summer party main attraction. You can serve with your favorite chips or grilled vegetables.

Humor In Real Life... In the company of three physicians and a veterinarian recently during a three-day span, I queried their personnel about day-to-day occurrences that make them smile. In three cases, answers came quickly. The vet, however, thoughtfully detailed a foul-up at a clinic decades ago. Hearing the account makes me wonder if it is included in lectures at the mother school of veterinary medicine, Texas A&M University.

In the early seventies, I would listen to a talk show on the radio, as I drove into work in downtown Austin. It was the Sammy Allred and Bob Cole show. Sammy was so rude and obnoxious, that by the time I got to work, I was in a really bad mood.

Hit parade Often, when people find out I write for newspapers and magazines and AlGore’s interwebnets, they say, “Oh, you’re a journalist.” Every time that happens I say, “No, I’m a writer.” OK, sometimes I tell them I’m a dolphin waxer, but for some reason no one believes me. Except for that real estate lady in Branson, Missouri.

June is Audiobook month, and we’re celebrating by adding more new bestseller books on CD to our collection and new downloadable audiobooks to our digital Overdrive collection. If you’re commuting, traveling, or working, audiobooks can make your day so enjoyable! Audiobooks: The Escape by David Baldacci (CD F BAL Pul.3) The First Hostage by Joel C.

Great Summer Escapes As soon as that final school bell rings in Mason County, it seems the travel plans kick into full gear. There's a bit of schedule juggling as end-of-year activities wind down. Then, we have to determine if there are vacancies at our preferred destinations, are there folks available to check on the pets, feed the livestock, pick up the mail and water the lawn.