October 30, 2019 Issue

Now that the heat of Summer is gone and the nights are cooler, water temperatures have dropped below the comfort level for most swimmer s. This has also reduced the demand for chemical sanitizers but pools still require routine maintenance and the leaves are already beginning to fall. Pool sanitizers work by killing bacteria and algae.

Wind farm developers are still rushing to start wind farm projects before the federal Production Tax Credit phase down increasingly takes effect. The Hill Country has fortunately not been impacted, although nearby areas such as Mills, McCullough, and Concho counties are seeing a progression in industrial wind farm projects. Updates on these developments and others will be discussed at a brief, informational meeting hosted by Save Our Scenic Hill Country Environment (SOSHCE).

Mason Study Club began its new year on Wednesday, September 25th. The officers for 2019-2020 provided lunch and the guest speakers were from The Haven located in Brady. The Haven is a “refuge” for domestic violence victims. The abused can feel safe out of harms way while at The Haven. During a brief stay, victims have access to Counseling and are urged to job search. During the club business meeting, President Joyce Mutschink introduced two new members, Nancy Jordan and Karen Toone.

Riata Service Organization held their October 22nd meeting at the home of Judy Cordes. Judy, Susan Coe and Becky Griffith were our hostesses. Rene Ince, our Vice President, introduced our speaker, Ms. Lisa Ruthven, owner of Murphy Creek Cellars. This business was opened two years ago and stocks over 110 Texas wines.

Filling for the 2020 Republication Primary begins Saturday November 9, 2019 and will continue through Monday December 9, 2019 at 6:00 PM. Information packets for those interested in running for an eligible county office may be picked up in the County Clerk’s Office or from Republican Party Chairman Wanda Rueffer.

The Punchers traveled to Center Point on Friday night and, in a game they controlled all night, racked up their third district victory after shutting out the Center Point Pirates 42-0. The opening kickoff gave Center Point possession of the ball; but, the Pirates had trouble ever moving the ball down the field.

I. Scope: 1. The most important point is that the draft ordinance ONLY regulates demolition. Unlike most historic preservation ordinances, it does NOT impose any design review requirements or affirmative maintenance obligations. Consequently, it does NOT regulate additions or alterations to buildings if there will be no demolition of any of the original structure.

“Boss” Lion Michael Murphy gaveled the meting to order at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22nd. The meeting was well attended & we had 5 guests. John Palacio brought 2 members of L.C.R.A., Bruce Lehmberg brought a guest & was responsible for the program, Mark Lehmberg’s guest was Pastor Fred Krebs and Mark Nash brought Pastor Peter Aguilar. Pastor Fred Krebs opened the meeting with prayer.

Saturday, October 19, 2019, was a very special Homecoming for the Mason High School Class of 1969. The class had fifty-one graduates. Thirty-three members of the class met at Lea Lou to reminisce and reconnect. Upon registration, the classmates were “tagged” with a photo of themselves from the 1969 Branding Iron.

A video produced by the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame will be on display at the Mason Square Museum as the museum officially opens its new exhibit October 31 on the life of Anna Martin. Martin was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, located in Fort Worth, in 2011.

The Mason County Nutrition Program is having a Bake Sale on Friday November 1, at Mason Feed Store. All proceeds from the sale will help fund our Nutrition Program for our senior clients, both homebound and at the Senior Center. Join us at Mason Feed Store located at 111 Austin Street in Mason.

The Punchers traveled to Center Point on Friday night and, in a game they controlled all night, racked up their third district victory after shutting out the Center Point Pirates 42-0. The opening kickoff gave Center Point possession of the ball; but, the Pirates had trouble ever moving the ball down the field.

Last week, the JV Purple took on the Center Point Pirates. The Punchers had control of the game from the very beginning. After a quick first half the Punchers were winning with a score of 18-0. A strong first half carried over into the second as the Punchers continued the scoring.

7th grade The seventh grade Punchers won a close one as the final buzzer sounded, 14-12. It was a back and forth battle the whole time but we were able to capitalize on a few drives and our defense was able to hold them out to get us the win. Scoring for the seventh grade Punchers were Sutten Silerio with a rushing touchdown and a 2 point conversion; Caeleb Carter on a rushing touchdown and Hunter Bradley got an interception.

Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Mason County WinterFisch, which will kick off with the WinterFisch Celebration on December 7th. WinterFisch is Mason County’s participation in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Winter Rainbow Trout Stocking Program and is one of over 100 release site statewide. WinterFisch begins on December 7th and continues through April 31st.

Wind farm developers are still rushing to start wind farm projects before the federal Production Tax Credit phase down increasingly takes effect. The Hill Country has fortunately not been impacted, although nearby areas such as Mills, McCullough, and Concho counties are seeing a progression in industrial wind farm projects. Updates on these developments and others will be discussed at a brief, informational meeting hosted by Save Our Scenic Hill Country Environment (SOSHCE).

Fall is here in Mason, Texas! Temperatures are starting to drop and the “Gem of the Hill Country” is kicking off its season with wine and hunting. Over the past month, our local vineyards and wineries have been preparing the fruits of their labor, with stained fingers and big smiles.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Mason Post 8554, is honored to present the Veterans Day program, in honor of our veterans, Monday, November 11, 2019, at 10 AM in Heritage part of Mason, provided that the weatherman is in accord. Otherwise, we will use the Gym of the River of Life Church.

The fourth grade faculty and students at Mason Elementary would consider it a great pleasure if all of our Mason County Veterans would join us for a luncheon on Monday, November 11th in the Mason High School Commons area, followed by a program of celebration in the High School gym beginning at 12:30 p.m.

St. Joseph’s parishioners invite you and your friends to come enjoy a delicious Mexican Dinner this Sunday, November 3rd. Serving will be 11 AM – 2 PM and the location is still in St. Joseph’s Hall! You may “Eat In” and enjoy a relaxing meal or you may drive thru for “Take Out” plates. Each plate is $10.00 and the meal consists of enchiladas, beans, rice, salad, tea and a dessert. Your support is always appreciated. (Note: Remember to change your clocks back one hour Sat ...

Riata Service Organization held their October 22nd meeting at the home of Judy Cordes. Judy, Susan Coe and Becky Griffith were our hostesses. Rene Ince, our Vice President, introduced our speaker, Ms. Lisa Ruthven, owner of Murphy Creek Cellars. This business was opened two years ago and stocks over 110 Texas wines.

Filling for the 2020 Republication Primary begins Saturday November 9, 2019 and will continue through Monday December 9, 2019 at 6:00 PM. Information packets for those interested in running for an eligible county office may be picked up in the County Clerk’s Office or from Republican Party Chairman Wanda Rueffer.

The Mason County Nutrition Program is having a Bake Sale on Friday November 1, at Mason Feed Store. All proceeds from the sale will help fund our Nutrition Program for our senior clients, both homebound and at the Senior Center. Join us at Mason Feed Store located at 111 Austin Street in Mason.

The Punchers traveled to Center Point on Friday night and, in a game they controlled all night, racked up their third district victory after shutting out the Center Point Pirates 42-0. The opening kickoff gave Center Point possession of the ball; but, the Pirates had trouble ever moving the ball down the field.

Logan Ranch Camp will be hosting a community wide Harvest Time Family Festival on Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM to raise funds to support the monthly regional youth outreaches it sponsors. Come enjoy the beautiful grounds of Logan Ranch Camp as you shop local vendors’ crafts, unique jewelry, holiday splurges, essential oils, beauty products and more!

Save the date for freshly baked, yummy KRISPY KREME donuts, FRIDAY November 1 for $10 a dozen. 100% profit goes to help Mason community animals. PICK UP FOR Pre orders will be at Mason Bank, beginning at 8:30 am. Buddy’s Animal Rescue is holding their third annual KRISPY KREME fundraiser. Buddy’s is a 501c3 nonprofit rescue dedicated to bottle feeding orphaned kittens and puppies and spaying/neutering/fostering dogs from our local pound.

When you’re out with your little cheerleader and batman Thursday, be sure to stop by the Eckert Civic Center for a real treat! The Mason Star Gazers are having a sky viewing party on Halloween Night (Thurs. October 31st) from 6-9pmat 1024 McKinley St. We’ll be setting up our telescopes at 6, if you’d like to see them in the evening light.

The Friends of the Library invite you to join us at the library November 7th at 6:00 to hear the tales of storyteller and author, Elizabeth Ellis during our annual meeting and membership drive. Elizabeth Ellis hails from a long line of Appalachian Family Storytellers. Influenced by the tales she heard during her childhood, Elizabeth went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in English and History and Master’s Degree in Education with a specialization in Librarianship to disadvantaged children ...

Where did October go? I feel like it was full speed ahead on October 1 and now the month is about over. Halloween is big for some people. I try to get a few bags of candy to hand out and then the battle is not to eat the candy before Halloween.

I have been asked to assist in the production of a new book on the late Texas Ranger Charlie Miller. Even today I am asked on a quite regular basis ‘what can you tell me about Charlie Miller’ questions. Thus it came as no surprise to be asked to assist in this latest effort to document Ranger Miller, who died 08 December 1971.

Come enjoy a chili lunch at the Castell School/Community Building on November 2nd, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Chili with all the fixings, dessert and a drink, all for only $10. Along with the fundraiser luncher are some raffle items (hunting knives, customized metal yard sign, gift cards, George Foreman grill).

A video produced by the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame will be on display at the Mason Square Museum as the museum officially opens its new exhibit October 31 on the life of Anna Martin. Martin was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, located in Fort Worth, in 2011.

St. Joseph’s parishioners invite you and your friends to come enjoy a delicious Mexican Dinner this Sunday, November 3rd. Serving will be 11 AM – 2 PM and the location is still in St. Joseph’s Hall! You may “Eat In” and enjoy a relaxing meal or you may drive thru for “Take Out” plates. Each plate is $10.00 and the meal consists of enchiladas, beans, rice, salad, tea and a dessert. Your support is always appreciated. (Note: Remember to change your clocks back one hour Sat ...

Looking for the Best in Us The annual Hunters' & Visitors' Guide is in this edition of the paper. It is, by far, the largest publication we do all year long, and subsequently, it requires all our focus and attention in the final days of preparation. As we were finishing up this year's Guide, tightening up the layout and making last minute edits, we still had to deal with all the usual weekly/daily tasks.

Scientists have now confirmed what everyone already knew. This last summer was a booger; not just for Mason County, but for the world. Since systematic global record keeping began in 1880, sixteen of the seventeen warmest years on record have occurred since 2000. The lone exception before the 21st Century was in 1998.

Kendal Hemphill Since 1787, the press has referred to itself as the “Fourth Estate - a bastion of free speech and protector of the first amendment above all else. In your editorial in the October 9th edition, you waxed eloquently about losing writers over the years. You went on to explain how Kendal has gone on to pursue other interests in life making it sound like the absence of his columns in future issues was his idea. Yet the truth of the matter is far different.

City Meeting Letter to the Editor: The melodrama at the October 21st City Commissioner’s monthly meeting was terrific! The basic agenda started with audience comments. So, before the items on the agenda are discussed by the commissioners, audience comments are made on Item numbers 6 and 7 concerning the need for a financial committee.

Kendal Dear Gerry, I read the news in this week’s paper that Kendal’s column will be discontinued as if November 2019. As a non-subscriber I have no financial way of demonstrating my displeasure with this decision. However, I believe that his column was always thoughtful and well-written, as well as articulate, interesting, and humorous.

Love This Paper! It seems like the Devil has chosen to enter Mason County from all directions these past months. He is probably loving all of the turmoil that he has generated. The latest being the Kendall Cancellation upheaval. This paper is a great paper for those who love Mason. Gerry has done a fine job of creating the edition for each week.

Real News As of Oct. 24 the Brady Standard-herald (325-597-2959) had no plans for discontinuing Kendal Hemphill’s column, nor does the Junction Eagle (325-446-2610). Neither had heard anything about it. OOPS! Well, folks, fake news seems to have made it’s way to our fair city of Mason. K.H. did not make this call, so who did? Jerry Carlman

Kendal’s Column Bob Feuerbacher hit the nail on the head with last week’s letter to the editor. He couldn’t have been more right. They are taking away our historical monuments, trying to take away our guns, and worse yet our freedom of speech. For those of you considering cancelling your Mason newspaper, check out the conservative Buffalo Gap newspaper (Buffalogapnews.com).

Cast Iron Dutch Oven Bread the source of this recipe is unknown I’m not sure where this recipe originated, but it would not surprise me to find out that it began out on the Texas prairies well over a century ago! It’s the kind of recipe that would work well to feed a bunch of hungry cowboys back then, and it would do the same today.

Don’t miss your chance to hear and meet Tumbleweed Smith, iconic Texas radio personality! He has one of the most recognized voices in Texas, he is funny, and he is FREE to see here at the library next Thursday, Nov. 7th, at 6:30 P.M. in the Stribling Room. Mark your calendars now!! You know we had two great programs in October: Western author and actor Eric H.

Monday Night At Morton’s “As I begin to write this, I ‘slug’ it, as we writers say, which means I put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is ‘eonlineFINAL,’ and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started.

Finally, a Veteran!...? When the prospect of military service popped up, I didn’t know the National Guard from a cattle guard. Generally speaking, that’s still the case, despite my having “served” in the Texas Army National Guard for nine years, not too long after muskets had been cast aside in favor of more effective firearms.

Skillet Ground Beef Stew This cooler weather is putting me in the mood for soups and stews! There is a slight difference between the two. Soups are more liquid based usually made with lighter ingredients. Stews tend to be heartier and take longer to cook, which is where the term “Stew” comes from. This is one of my favorite stews because it doesn’t take long.

Last Monday evening the City Commission met for a long meeting that covered a number of issues, and a few of them may be of interest to many in our community, so I would like to discuss a few of them. One particular discussion may affect anyone in Mason who owns or lives in one of the older historic buildings that our town is known for.

Where did October go? I feel like it was full speed ahead on October 1 and now the month is about over. Halloween is big for some people. I try to get a few bags of candy to hand out and then the battle is not to eat the candy before Halloween.

Beauty, beauty, everywhere. Autumn sees to that. Trees changing color. Leaves beginning to fall. And the sky. Clear, fresh, pure. Lucky, lucky, lucky to be alive. To see the sun rise. To notice the heron at water’s edge. Or spot a buck running through the brush. To hear cows bellow in the morning. Or an owl late at night. To smell bacon frying. Or the smoke from a neighbor’s fireplace. To yell and scream when the Punchers win. To sing a song. Or hum until B ...