Chamber announces Food & Wine Fest winners

Lee County Soccer Scores

 

Chamber plans Food & Wine Festival

4-H Playday and Buckle Series announced

Benefit planned for Manheim woman struggling with breast cancer

 

Girl Scouts Participate in Food Drive

11/25/08  Junior Girl Scout Troop 2127 held their 3rd Annual Food Drive last week. Girls passed out bags through out several neighborhoods in Giddings then returned a few days later to pick-up the filled bags.

The food was given to Immanuel Lutheran Church for their Food Pantry to help the needy in the Giddings area during the holiday season.

Snow's BBQ To Be Featured On Texas Country Reporter

Lexington's Snows BBQ will be featured this weekend on the Texas Country Reporter.

The restaurant got its mark on the "map" earlier this year when it was awarded the title of "Best Barbeque in Texas" by Texas Monthly Magazine. Texas Monthly Article 

The enterprise is operated by Lexington native Kerry Bexley and his "pit boss" assistant Tootsie Tomanetz, who works at Giddings Middle School during the week. The pair partnered up in March 2003 combining "good BBQ, good service, and friendly people to help make it a success".

The restaurant is open for business just one day a week, Saturday. They open at 8:00 a.m. and are usually sold out by 11:00 a.m. Snows is located at 700 Main Street in downtown Lexington.

The Texas Country Reporter is broadcast locally on Austin's KEYE 42 on Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and on Bryan/College Station KMAY 6 on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. Times & Channels

 

Lee County Judge Evan Gonzales To Lead Statewide Association

10/1/08  Lee County Judge Evan Gonzales was recently elected president of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas (CJCAT). CJCAT is a statewide organization with more than 1,200 active members.

Judge Gonzales took his oath of office at the CJCAT annual conference held in Fort Worth in mid-September.

CJCAT promotes the interests of county government through continuing education and active participation in governmental affairs, particularly the state Legislature.

As a member of the executive board Gonzales will travel to Austin during the 2009 legislative session to testify in committee hearings and help monitor legislation that will impact county government.

Gonzales is the former president of the South Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association, a sub-region of CJCAT.

Gonzales is a lifelong resident of Lee County and has served as Lee County Judge since 2003.

Judge Gonzales and his wife Marsha (Keilberg) have three children; Joshua, Jessica and Jaclyn.  

Community Collections For Ike Victims Exceeds Expectations

9/21/08  Community volunteers banded together Saturday to work for a worthy cause and their collections exceeded all initial  expectations.

On Saturday, the Giddings Ares Chamber of Commerce and the Giddings Food Pantry coordinated a food drive to benefit the victims of Hurricane Ike. The fundraising event was held in the Classic Bank parking lot.

Denise Harlan, Executive Director of the Giddings Area Chamber of Commerce reported Sunday that the drive was a complete success. The effort yielded $6,783 and 18 pallets of donated items. 

Cargill/Nutrena donated the use of a tractor/trailer rig to haul the items to the Capitol Area Food Bank in Austin.

Residents of Giddings and the surrounding area collected and delivered items like canned foods, water, diapers, baby formula and baby wipes. The items will be taken to the Texas coastal regions that were hit the hardest when hurricane Ike rolled ashore on September 13th.

Food Drive For Ike Relief Saturday

9/19/08  The Giddings Area Chamber of Commerce has been getting numerous calls from the community on how they can help the Hurricane Relief Effort. 

The Chamber has been working hard to put together a central location for donations that will be used locally and for the immediate relief of evacuees in the Austin area shelters.

Refugees located in the Giddings area, who need supplies can contact Gene Parker, Director of the Giddings Food Pantry (979) 542-3343 or (512) 826-0248. 

The Giddings Food Pantry/ CARE center, in conjunction with the Giddings Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a food drive to help in the relief effort.

Denise Harlan, Executive Director of the Chamber said, "Our community has been blessed and we want to give back". 

Canned items, non perishable food products, diapers, baby formula, baby wipes, and bottled water are the things that are most needed. Monetary donations need to be made to the Giddings Food Pantry.

The drive will be held at the Classic Bank parking lot on Saturday, September 20^th from 7am to 7pm.  Volunteers are needed to help with the collections.  Contact the Chamber office at 979-542-3455 to find out what times are available for you to volunteer.

Lee County Virtually Unaffected By Hurricane Ike

Cooler Weather In Store As Front Enters Area

9/14/08  Except for minor traffic congestion most everything went along in normal fashion for the local community. Residents of Lee County received only a slight change in the weather due to Hurricane Ike.

Wind gusts up to 45 miles per hour - in the Lee County area - were reported by Austin and College news stations.  

Very light rain fell in many parts of the county on Saturday morning and then again late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.   

No major damage was reported from the storm and things remained normal through out the county. 

After Ike had passed through Texas a cool front began working its way into this part of central Texas and is expected to bring cooler temperatures, with highs in the 80's for the next several days.   

State Preparing For Search & Rescue, Extra Traffic Not A Big Problem For Giddings

State

"Texas Taskforce Ike" representatives reported, during the 4:30 p.m. State-to-County conference call, that residents in the Galveston area of the Texas coastline should expect to see a 20-25 foot surge between 2:00 and 3 a.m. Saturday morning. (National Weather Service Photo)

The National Weather Service was predicting that the center or "eye" of the storm would make landfall at Galveston Island and would stretch out 30 miles on each side of the island.

Those in charge of evacuation efforts stated that all special needs individuals had been evacuated and that overall evacuation efforts had been completed.

State officials reported that 87 shelters were open an they expected to have over 100 shelters operational by Saturday morning. (NOAA Photo)

During the early morning hours on Saturday responders will be involved in a "search and rescue" (SAR) mission and that at that point SAR would be the No. 1 priority.    

Lee County

9/12/08  11:30 p.m.  The extra traffic was not nearly the problem for Giddings as it has been in the past - during previous Houston evacuation efforts. 

At 3:00 p.m. Giddings police officers reported that traffic had backed-up to County Road 226 (Country Club Road). The problem was  worked out quickly with the manual operation of the lights at 290 & 141 and 290 & 77.

Traffic on Hwy 77 was, at one point, backed up past the District Court Building on the south side and to the State Farm Insurance office on the north side.

City officials had also coordinated with railway officials to lower the number of trains that were scheduled to run through Giddings on Friday. Spencer Schneider, with the City of Giddings, said that instead of a train passing through every few hours, by 4:30 p.m. Friday only two had gone through Giddings. (Photo: taken at approximately 3:30 p.m. Friday, from the Lee County Courthouse bell tower)

Officials were poised to react, during the early morning hours, to problems that the potential high winds might cause. City, County and Bluebonnet Electric workers will be out to make repairs as long as conditions are safe to do so.

Traffic Congestion, Gasoline Shortage Main Concerns For Community Officials During Ike Evacuation

9/11/08  (2:20 p.m.)  Traffic congestion on Highways 290 and 77 is one of the main concerns for community officials during the current coastal evacuation caused by Hurricane Ike.

Giddings' Police Officers and Lee County Sheriff's Deputies began to manually operate the traffic lights at the intersection of Highway 290 & 77 today at around noon.

There was some early speculation about whether this area would be subject to a "one-way, contra-flow" type set up, but officials said that all preliminary indications did not suggest a single direction for traffic would be necessary at this time.

Gasoline shortages were a problem during the evacuation caused by Hurricane Rita in 2005. Since then officials have tried to do a  better job in the overall effort to prepare for situations that may arise. 

 City, County and school representatives all reported that their fuel supply tanks had been "topped off" and that they were in good shape to respond to situations as they arise.

State officials were somewhat concerned about the re-stocking of fuel at gas stations along several of the evacuation routes. During the 10:30 a.m. statewide conference call officials agreed that measures had been put in place to facilitate the situation as much as possible. Fuel haulers are expected to run around-the-clock as long as conditions are safe to operate in.  

3rd Annual Word Wrangler Festival Set For Friday

Giddings will celebrate the 3rd Annual Word Wrangler Festival this Friday, September 12th, from at 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Authors from all over Texas are expected to attend the event which will be held at the Giddings Public Library and Cultural Center.

The event has been tabbed as "A Celebration of Creativity in Lee County" and is expected to host a crowd larger than ever with over 25 Texas authors on hand.

Many of the authors will read from their manuscripts and discuss where they gather the inspiration for their work. They will also entertain questions from the audience.

Visitors may purchase books at the event and autographs will be available. Door prizes will be given out through out the day. 

The Giddings New Horizons Lions Club will be on hand to assist with refreshments by providing a walk-in-coffee for those who attend. The group will accept free will donations for their efforts.    

Seton Salad & Sandwich Luncheon

Tuesday, September 9th   11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Martin Luther Lutheran Church  Giddings, Tx

Tickets: $6.00 - available at the door

Giddings Associates of Seton Development Board

Proceeds benefits League House and Neonatal Center

 

Law Enforcement Center Opens

8/3/08  Friday, August 1st marked the much awaited opening of the new Lee County Law Enforcement Center.

 

Sheriff Rodney Meyer was joined by other area officials, members of his staff, civic leaders and Lee County residents as he cut the ribbon and invited members of the community to enjoy a tour of the prisoner-free facility. 

Meyer praised the hard work put forth by everyone involved and thanked his wife and his assistants who helped him as he worked throughout each phase of the extensive project. 

The front entrance of the building is marked with two dedication plaques. The first outlines county officials involved in overseeing the project and lists the architect and the builder of the facility. This plaque was unveiled by Precinct 4 Commissioner Linda Kovar who took over as commissioner when her late husband Thomas Kovar passed away earlier this year.

The second plaque was unveiled by Robyn Goodson, the widow of the late Sheriff Joe Goodson. Mrs. Goodson was joined by two of Sheriff Goodson's children and two of his grandchildren during this special part of the ceremony. Sheriff Goodson's image appears in bronze on the plaque.

As citizens toured the well constructed building they were amazed by the latest technology that was included in its construction and at all the space inside the facility.

The new jail will be used to house both male and female prisoners from Lee County. Officials also expect to accept prisoners from neighboring counties. Many other jails are either at or above capacity and some do not have to ability to handle female inmates.

Prisoners are expected to be transferred to the new building within the next few days.       

Immanuel Lutheran Church Hosts Mariachi Band From El Paso, Texas

7/28/08  This past weekend Immanuel Lutheran Church hosted the San Pablo Mariachi Band for a Saturday concert and the church's Sunday morning worship. 

The band hails from the Ysleta Lutheran Mission congregation in El Paso, Texas and is on a mission trip that will include several  performances in Texas cities including Austin and Waco.

The group entertained Immanuel members and residents from the Giddings community with beautiful Christian music in both English and Spanish at Saturday night's concert.

The outdoor event was held at the Immanuel athletic field which is in front of the church on Highway 77 North. 

After the Saturday night concert the group joined the Immanuel congregation for its Sunday morning 10:30 a.m. worship service.

Young men and women make up the vocal group and both play equally complementary roles regarding the vocal and instrumental makeup of the band.

The spokesman for the mariachi group is Steven Heimer, a well spoken religious communicator who has an amazing alto voice and plays the trumpet for the group.

The group includes vocalists ages 12 - 40+ years. All of the members of the group play instruments including trumpets, guitars, guitarrons and violins.

The Ysleta group will continue their Texas travels and also make stops outside of the state. Some of the scheduled concerts include Prairie Grove, Lowell and Bella Vista, Arkansas.  

The next stop for the singers was in Austin where they were expected to perform for the congregation of Redeemer Lutheran Church at its first ever Hispanic worship service at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.     

All Content Copyright 2008 Lee County Live - All Rights Reserved

individuals all donated items that were raffled off today to raise money for 20 year old Andrew Boriack who was stricken with lung cancer last year.

The winning raffle tickets were drawn today at a bake sale which was also held for Andrew.


Proceeds for the bake sale, raffle and an online auction are dedicated to fund living, travel, and lodging e

xpenses for Andrew while he is undergoing chemotherapy and (ultimately) a Stem Cell Transplant.

Log on to www.jk-auctioneers.com to check out the online auction.

Andrew’s Auction & Update

7/06/08  Andrew’s latest doctor’s appointment was good, his blood work looked better;  his hemoglobin was 11.7 compared to 6.9 when he was in the hospital in June when he was undergoing his new ICE chemotherapy.  He is getting daily Neupogen shots to help with this and he got two units of blood recently. Things have started to look up.

He had a little side effect when he started his new chemotherapy, but the doctors worked out the problem and he seems to be doing a whole lot better right now. He will go back to the hospital July 9th for his next round of chemo and then he will see his specialist, Dr. Melear, on July 14^th for new lab work.  

The efforts of the Lee County community have touched Andrew and his family. All of the help from the community, the prayers, and the fundraising efforts have had an impact on Andrew’s progress.

At the request of Andrew's mom we have included his mailing address for anyone who would like to send him a card or note to let him know you are thinking about him.

Andrew Boriack   1548 FM 141 Giddings, Texas  78942

The online fundraising auction for Andrew started on Sunday, July 6^th. If you are able, please help Andrew with a bid on the item of your choice. The auction will run July 6^th – July 12^th. Click Here To View Auction Items   

Andrew, Cancer & The Fight Life Has To Offer

By: Dana Lehmann

6/25/08  Just over two years ago I had the opportunity to photograph GHS senior Andrew Boriack. When I met Andrew I was pleasantly surprised by his mild manner and quiet, shy demeanor. Andrew, of course, had other things he’d rather be doing, but reluctantly gave in to the wishes of his mom and agreed to meet for the appointment.

By the time Andrew’s appointment was over I had realized that this was a kid that was extremely likeable, profoundly humble and a young man that would prove to be a success at whatever it was that life had to offer him.   

In May 2006, Andrew would graduate from Giddings High School and enter the workforce. Andrew had spent time learning all he could about diesel engines (it’s in the Boriack genes) and started a job with Aquila Gas Company. Just as Andrew was beginning his young career, he would receive the worst news of his life.

Feeling ill, showing signs of labored breathing, and coughing, Andrew sought the care of a physician. After a few routine visits to the doctor’s office, a chest x-ray was ordered. The x-ray showed something on his upper right chest, an obstruction that was pressing on his lung and blocking most of its air flow and rendering it ineffective. 

A CAT scan was completed on July 30^th 2007 and the results were made available the next day. Needless to say, it was a terrible shock to both Andrew and his parents when the doctors told them something was very wrong.

It was suggested that Andrew might possibly have Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and he was sent to an Oncologist in Austin right away.

Dr. Jason Melear saw Andrew immediately and, judging by the symptoms, told Andrew and his family that he felt sure Andrew was suffering from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The diagnosis would soon be verified when they met with a surgeon to do a biopsy.  By August 6^th Andrew was set for a string of tests that would fill up the entire week. Andrew endured procedure after procedure - including a bone marrow biopsy, needle biopsy and PET scan.

A surgical biopsy was scheduled for August 15^th but was canceled one hour before the family was to leave for Austin. The surgeon said it was absolutely not safe to do the procedure considering the condition of Andrew’s lung.  After the surgeon discussed this with Dr. Melear, Andrew was admitted into the hospital to start chemotherapy right away. Dr. Melear said at that time Andrew was in Stage 2 of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Andrew started ABVD chemotherapy and got it every two weeks.

With 13 treatments behind him, Andrew was handling it all very well and there was a considerable amount of shrinkage in the tumor. He was still able to work part time and enjoyed doing things with his family and friends. But by the end of January 2008, he was having a hard time breathing and was put on steroids to help with the inflammation. After a trip to the ER and the doctor Andrew returned home but as the days progressed his condition just seemed to worsen. A CAT scan was done and the family was told the Hodgkin's had now actually spread into nodules of Andrew’s lungs.

A lung biopsy was done on April 21^st and Andrew spent the night in ICU. On April 23^rd Andrew learned that he had gone from Stage 2 to a Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. 

The treatment plan was to change his chemotherapy to ESHAP, which he started on April 24^th while he was still in the hospital, and to eventually do a Blood Stem Cell Transplant at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas.  He was released on May 1^st.

Andrew was admitted back into the hospital on May 15^th for five days of ESHAP chemotherapy.  He was released for two days, for a trip to Baylor Medical Center in Dallas, to meet with the Blood and Stem Cell Transplant physician.  Dr. Fay was very encouraging and hopeful that with a Blood and Stem Cell Transplant Andrew would go into total remission.

It was further determined that before the Blood and Stem Cell Transplant could happen Andrew’s tumors would have to shrink. A scan revealed that the tumor had not grown, but that it had not shrunk any either. Once it finally starts to show some shrinkage Andrew would be able to head to Dallas for two very long visits where the Blood and Stem Cell Transplant will take place.

Andrew has had fluid drained off his right lung four times. He is on oxygen almost all the time and not able to move around a whole lot.

Recently, Andrew had a full body CT scan. The results were not good. The ESHAP chemotherapy treatments did not work. He will head back to the hospital on Wednesday (June 25^th) for three days of treatment called ICE. He will then return home for two weeks and then go back to the hospital for a second round of the ICE.  Andrew will endure three rounds of ICE and then have another CT scan.  

The biggest problem is that he is very weak.  He is hardly able to eat and the main concern is the condition of his lungs. The Lymphoma has taken over his lungs, so this is what they have to concentrate their efforts on right now.  

The specialist is optimistic, and hopeful that Andrew’s ordeal will soon come to an end. For now, Andrew continues to battle. He is hanging in there - fighting, praying and believing… because for now, this is the fight that life has to offer.  

Andrew is the son of Theresa & Gordon Jenke and Douglas Boriack. This story is written using medical information provided by Andrew’s mother Theresa. 

If you would like to help: A fund has been set up in Andrew’s name, at Round Top State Bank, to help the family during this trying time of need. To make a donation that will help with living, travel and lodging expenses associated with Andrew’s treatment and care you can click the “DONATE” button. Except for a nominal processing fee incurred by PayPal, absolutely all of the funds you donate will go directly to the care of Andrew. Rachael Kipp Gold is Andrew’s cousin and is handling the fundraising effort for him and his family. If you prefer, you can make a contribution at Round Top State Bank in Giddings or contact Rachael Gold @ (979) 540-9359.

The Story of Fathers Day 

6/15/08  Even though many people believe that Father's Day was established as a holiday in order to help greeting card companies sell more cards, that is not the case.

Actually when a "father's day" was first proposed father's day cards didn’t even exist.

Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington, first suggested the idea of a "father's day" in 1909. She came up with the idea as a special way to honor her father, William Smart.

Smart, a Civil War veteran, was widowed when his wife (Mrs. Dodd's mother) died during the birth with their sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to raise a brand new baby and his other five children by himself farm in Washington State.

Once Mrs. Dodd became an adult, she realized the accomplishment her dad had realized.  Dodd felt that her dad’s self-sacrifice and strength, while raising his children as a single parent, should be commended.

The first Father's Day was observed on June 19, 1910 in Spokane Washington.

At nearly the same time in towns and cities across the United States other people were beginning to celebrate a "father's day" but no specific day had been set aside to honor “Dad”.

Support for Fathers Day was shown by President Calvin Coolidge in 1924. Fathers Day was observed for many years before, finally in 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the third Sunday in June as Father's Day.

As the years have gone by, Father's Day has become a day to not only honor your biological father but a time to recognize all men who act as a father figure. Grandfathers, stepfathers, uncles, big brothers and adult male friends have come to be recognized on Father's Day.

Dad Facts:

There are 64.3 million fathers in the U.S.

In families where the mother works outside of the home, 14% of fathers are full-time stay-at-home dads.

Nearly 25% of all married dads have three or more children living at home.

One in five single parents with primary custody is a dad. 31% of them are due child support from their child's mother.

11% of Dads are stepdads, living full-time with their spouse's children. 85% of Dads live only with their biological children.

Two-thirds of children under the age of six eat dinner with their dads every day.

Six out ten children under the age of six were praised at least three times a day by their fathers.

One in twelve men serving in the army is a dad.

One in four dads, who work outside the home, spends less than an hour a day with their kids.

38% of working dads say they would take a pay cut to spend more time with their kids.

Relay For Life Exceeds Fundraising Goal

6/10/08  The Lee County Relay For Life has exceeded its 2008 fundraising goal.

As of last Friday night the 2008 Lee County Relay For Life had raised over $96,400.00. According to event chair Amanda Becker this amount exceeded the original target of $90,000.00 that had been set by Relay For Life officials. (Photo: Hundreds of Lee County residents walked to raise money for cancer research)

Many of the teams turned in money on Saturday and Monday and several have made contact with "Relay" officials informing them that they have more to turn in within the coming days. 

The final totals are still pending but the event will, without a doubt, show a final tally of above $100,000.00 for the year, reported Mrs. Becker.

Young and old alike took part in the 12 hour marathon walking event which is put on each year by the American Cancer Society. These events play a major part in the fundraising needed to fund cancer research and education. 

This year 35 teams participated with 12-15 members per team. Over 400 Lee County residents took part in the fundraising affair that has become a huge experience for people in Giddings and the surrounding communities.  

The Relay For Life wrap-up will be held June 17^th at 6:00pm at Immanuel Lutheran School gym. Officials will announce the final totals, top fundraising teams, and special awards at that time.   

Relay For Life Begins Friday Evening

6/4/08  The American Cancer Society's Relay For Life will kick off its 2008 fund-raising event this Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. at Buffalo Stadium.

Event participants from all over Lee County will be on hand to raise money to assist in the fight against all forms of cancer.

Each year members of the Giddings community gather to raise thousands of dollars that are dedicated to cancer research and educational programs.

Clubs from the Lee County area, local church groups and our high school students are among those who return year after year to walk throughout the night to support the effort.  

Local DJ's, Curtis Krause and Byron Kalbas, will combine with musicians Chris Austin Martinez and Heather Roberson to provide entertainment for the event throughout the night.

The 12 hour event will begin Friday at 7 p.m. and last until Saturday morning at 7 a.m.    

Lee County Little League To Host All Star Tournament

6/4/08  The Lee County Little League will host the 9 year old boys all star tournament at the Giddings city park fields beginning June 16th. Teams from Washington County, Burleson County, Grimes County, LaGrange, Schulenburg, and Lee County will compete in the week long event.

LC Little League President Sheri Fritsche is looking for members of the community to serve as volunteer scorekeepers and work as game announcers. If you are willing to help e-mail Sheri at: sheri1167@yahoo.com .

City Council and School Board Election Results

5/12/08  Charlie Brown defeated Fred Jones by 57 votes to win the position of Giddings Mayor in Saturday's city council election. Brown claimed 144 votes to Jones' 87 votes.

One city council spot was open and was filled, un-contested, by Leonard Kreigel. Mr. Kreigel received a total of 194 votes.

Mary Ellen Whitsel won the school board position, left open by Greg Strickland who recently re-located because of his job. Whitsel beat Victor Gonzales by 45 votes, 174-129.

Rodeo Queen Contest Sunday

5/1/08  The royalty contest for the Lee County Fair and Rodeo will be held this Sunday, May 4th beginning at 9 a.m. Contestants will compete for the titles of Rodeo Queen, Sweetheart and Princess. 

Contestants are all Lee County residence or are members of the Lee County Sheriff's Posse (LCSP).

The three categories of contestants are: Queen, ages 14 to 18; Sweetheart, ages 9 to 13 and Princess ages 3 to 8. The contest consists of a speech competition and a horsemanship challenge which is based on the contestants riding ability.

The LSCP will be awarding over $5000.00 in prizes to the contestants; saddle, crowns, buckles and various other prizes are available for the girls to win.

This year five girls will contend for the designation of Rodeo Queen. The contestant that is honored with the title will win a $500 scholarship, other prizes and will represent Lee County at other events around the state.

Winners will be announced before the Rodeo on May 10th at 6 p.m.    

Fishing Tournament Benefits Camp For All

4/23/08  Bass Pro Shops will host the 2nd Annual Amity Fishing Tournament on May 3. The event will be held at Lake Somerville Park and is a fundraiser for Camp For All in Burton, Texas.

Contestant check-in will begin at 6:00 a.m. with fishing from 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.  Prizes will be awarded. Entry fees are; Adults $30 and Children $10. Registration forms are being accepted at Bass Pro Shops, Lake Somerville Marina and on-site the day of the tournament.

Camp For All is a facility in Burton that host campers from all over the area who have diseases and disabilities. Campers are able to enjoy the outdoors and be involved in activities they don't normally get to participate in.  

Jousters Come To Giddings

The AMTGARD Medieval Reenactment Group rolled into Giddings this weekend erecting a modern day "tent city" at the Fireman's Park. The facility played host to hundreds who flocked to Giddings to participate in the occasion. The crowd invaded the park staying in RV's and tents, enjoying a picnic type cook-out, family fun and festivities.     

The group set out to celebrate the traditions that surround the Renaissance period. Participant competed in the jousting events, sporting skirts and tunics; armed with battle shields and foam tipped swords and arrows. The crowd enjoyed festivities for three days; men, women and children of all ages were allowed to take part in the affair which ended Sunday afternoon. 

American Veterans Traveling Tribute To Arrive May 14

4/7/08 The American Veterans Traveling Tribute is set to be escorted to  its Giddings exhibit site at Buffalo Stadium on Wednesday, May 14th. Set up of the wall will begin at 7 AM on Thursday, May 15th with public viewing and the laying of the wreath starting at 12 noon.

School visits and educational programs are scheduled for Friday, May 16th. 

The site will host an Armed Forces Day Tribute on Saturday, May 17th; events will include a Ride Of Honor for Lee County Veterans, Posting Of Colors by Texas Buffalo Soldiers and special ceremonial music by the Capitol City Highlanders Pipe Band.

Saturday's service will continue with a Flyover and a public address by Keynote Speaker Congressman Michael T. McCaul. Recognitions of Military Service, a Law Enforcement and Firefighter Tribute and a Ceremonial Program by the Apache Del Rio Inter Tribal Organization will follow.

Events will continue Saturday evening at 5 PM with the Reading of Names listed on the wall.

An onsite church service will be held on Sunday, May 18th at 11 AM with the official Tribute closing service is slated for Sunday at 5 PM.

The Tribute will close out its visit to Giddings at 7AM on Monday, May 19th. 

Key-Fischer Finishes 3rd At Rodeo Houston

3/23/08  Giddings barrel racer Tammy Key-Fischer finished 3rd in the Super Series Shootout on Saturday, March 22nd at Rodeo Houston. Key-Fischer completed the course with a time of 15.43 seconds, winning $15,500.

Earlier in the week Key-Fischer placed 1st in each of the three Super Series V go rounds. She then placed 2nd in the Semi Final II round on Friday with a time of 15.18 seconds. She finished 3rd in the Super Series Championship with a ending time of 15.54 seconds. 

Saturday's Super Series Shootout determined the overall money champion for the 2008 Barrel Racing series at the Houston competition. Lindsey Sears of Ropesville, Texas was the Champion with a time of 15.17 seconds. Sears claimed a total prize of $61,500. Jill Moody of Letcher, South Dakota took second place finishing in 15.34 second, earning a total of $19,500.

South Lee County Firefighters Win Grant

3/17/08  The United States Homeland Security Department will assist in the purchase of new personal protection equipment, including air packs and bunker gear for the South Lee County Volunteer Fire Department (SLCVFD).

The group won a grant that is issued through the Firefighter Assistance Fund, a source of support that was set up as a result of the 9-11 attack in New York. U.S. Representative Michael McCaul visited the SLCVFD station, located in Northrup, to deliver the grant check for $38,204. McCaul applauded the firemen for their selfless service to the security of the public in the rural community.

Members of the SLCVFD and representatives of the local community were on hand to welcome Rep. McCaul, officers of the fire department including Curtis Oltmann, Chris Becker, Tommy Miertschin and Robert Hinze accepted the check on behalf of the fire department.

South Lee County resident Joyce Bise wrote the grant so that the rural firefighting and rescue group could apply for support. Mrs. Bise announced that as a whole Lee County firefighting groups had qualified for and received nearly $500,000 in assistance from this U.S. Government funding source. In 2005 the Giddings Volunteer Fire Department collected over     $104,000 and in 2007 the North Lee County Volunteer Firefighters were eligible for almost $300,000.

Dube and Key-Fischer Place At Houston Rodeo

3/16/08  Area barrel racers Jackie Dube and Tammy Key-Fischer placed well during rodeo action at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

Jackie Dube finished in 4th place on both Wednesday and Thursday in the barrel racing competition with times of 15.88 seconds and 15.79 seconds. On Friday she took 2nd place posting a time of 15.47 seconds. Dube was in 3rd place in the Super Series IV competition with a three run aggregate time of 47.14 seconds.

Riding in Super Series V Tammy Key-Fischer placed 1st on Saturday with a time of 15.54 seconds. Key-Fischer came back on Sunday and again claimed 1st prize finishing the round in 15.51 seconds. With two rounds complete Key-Fischer holds an aggregate time of 31.05 seconds. Round three for Super Series V is scheduled for Monday night at 6:45 pm.

The (overall) Super Series Champion will be crowned on Saturday, March 22nd.

Giddings New Horizons Lions Celebrate 20 Years

2/22/08 An anniversary is a time to celebrate and the Giddings New Horizons Lions Club did just that Wednesday, February 20, marking the 20^th year of their charter with Lions Clubs International during a luncheon at the clubs new meeting place, Monzi’s Annex.

The celebration set out to acknowledge the charter members who are still in the club and recognize other members who have achieved service dates of 20 years. Lions Candy Clark, Sandra Furry, Linda Ehler, Arvella Polka, Jaime Manning, Linda Pruitt, Kim Morgan, Denise Harlan and Michelle Patterson were all honored.       

Lion Kim Morgan, who served as chairman and organizer of the event, prepared a DVD slide show of photographs from the past which sought to memorialize all the events that the club has been involved in throughout the years and acknowledge all of the achievements of the club. Club members who attended the event received a copy of the DVD.

Guest speakers included Past District Governor Lion Clarence “Quatie” Wolfshohl, Region 4 Lions Eye bank Director Lion Joe Franks and District Governor Lion Floyd Golan who presented the awards. Vice District Governor John Rouser and Lions from several other area clubs were in attendance, members of the Giddings High School Leo Club were also on hand to enjoy the festivities. 

The club used this event as an opportunity to make contributions to the Lee County First Responders; $1300 for the purchase of a new heart defibrillator, to the Giddings Fire Department; $700 for the purchase of a back pack air tank, and to The Friends of The Depot organization; $500 to purchase five memorial squares in the foundation of the Depot Restoration Project (one of the squares will be dedicated in the name of the Giddings High School Leo Club). Spencer Schneider, David Burttschell and Denise Harlan accepted the donated funds on behalf of the groups.  

Rachael Gold, Giddings New Horizons Lions Club president, stated "our club now looks forward to many years of further service to the citizens of the Giddings community and is proud to call Giddings home".   

The Giddings New Horizons  Lions Club is an asset to the Giddings area providing service to the community and honoring Giddings High Schools seniors by presenting scholarships to students who will be attending college or technical school.  The club gave out $22,000 in scholarship funds in 2007.  The group is also the organizer of the Giddings Community Blood Drive and is a proud supporter of the Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville which host campers from all over the state of Texas who have disabilities or juvenile diabetes.

City Council Votes To Purchase Golf Course

2/5/08 Voting unanimously Monday night, the Giddings City Council approved the purchase of the Giddings Country Club and Golf Course from current owner, Alan Roberts for the asking price of $550,000. The price includes 70 acres of land, four buildings and equipment. After receiving the overwhelming support of area residents, school officials and area businesses the council felt that buying the entity was a win - win situation. The course has been used by citizens, both young and old, by the GHS Golf Team and by visitors from out of town. It is an asset to the community and something the the city did not want to see slip away. The transaction is set to be finalized by February 15 and will be funded by Certificates of Obligation that will be paid back within a 15 year period.

Over 200 Locals Turn Out For Casting Call

2/2/08 Over 200 would be stars turned out Saturday for a casting call held in Giddings to staff an upcoming Hollywood movie which is set to be shot in the Smithville area. The Francine Maisler Casting company was on hand to photograph and interview locals for several parts, both speaking and non-speaking rolls, in the upcoming production. The group wasn't announcing if anyone would receive speaking parts in the movie but several of the aspiring actors were called back for a second, more in depth, interview. The crew representing Maisler casting was tight lipped about the specifics of the movie, saying that they had signed off to complete privacy for the production and that more details would be available at a later date. 

                                                      BEC building packed with would be stars

Casting call brings out locals, both young and old

American Veterans Traveling Tribute

1/29/08 The American Veterans Traveling Tribute will be in Giddings during the Lee County Fair and Rodeo, May 15-18, 2008. The goal of the tribute is to serve as a continual reminder of America's Veterans and their dedication to freedom. The Tribute is an unforgettable exhibit that honors the men and women who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. The Tribute will be on display at Buffalo Stadium and is scheduled to be open for viewing Friday, May 16 @7:00 a.m. thru Sunday, May 18 @ 8:30 p.m.    

Open Casting Call For Hollywood Film

1/29/08 Francine Maisler Casting will be conducting a search in Giddings for people to be considered for speaking and non-speaking rolls in an upcoming major Hollywood movie to be filmed in Texas.

The agency is looking for people of all ages and ethnicities, and are especially looking for: older adults with weathered faces, people of all ages with interesting, expressive faces, expectant mothers, outdoorsmen 25-45 yrs. old, children and families.

An open casting call will be held on Saturday, February 2nd in Giddings at Bluebonnet Electric Auditorium, 426 East Austin St. (Highway 290 East) from 11 a.m. thru 5 p.m.

"An Affair Of The Heart"

1/25/08 The Friends of the Depot organization that was developed to aid in the fundraising efforts of the downtown depot area and is geared towards the restoration of the the three historic train depots in the downtown Giddings area. The organization has set the date for its 2008 fundraiser for February 9th. The event will be held at the Monzi's Annex on North Main Street (Hwy 77) in Giddings, adjacent to the depot restoration area. The benefit will offer a fun filled evening including a social hour, dinner, a fundraising auction and music for dancing by Chris Brade. Tickets are $50 per person or $500 for a sponsorship table of eight. Tickets or sponsorships can be purchased by calling Joyce Bise @ (979)540-2720 or Fay Iselt  (979)540-2721.  

Friends Of The Depot Restoration Project

1/23/08 In addition to their upcoming fund raising event "An Affair Of The Heart" the Friends of the Depot organization will be offering an opportunity for the public to purchase a memorial to help finance the project. Part of the interior restoration on the project includes the foundation and floor. The original solid concrete floor will be cleaned, scored and stained to complement the historic renovation that is planned for the buildings. Patrons will be given a chance to sponsor a 4X4 foot section of the foundation which may be personalized with the sponsors name or dedication which can be by an individual or business. Each 4X4 foot section is available for $100 and can be reserved by contacting Joyce Bise @ (979) 540-2721 to handle the arrangements.   

City Council Holds Public Hearing Concerning Golf Course

1/22/08 Community leaders, business owners and concerned citizens lined up Tuesday night to voice their opinions on whether the City of Giddings should purchase the Giddings Country Club and Golf Course. The 70 acre property has been offered to the city for a purchase price of $550,000.00. The property is currently owned and operated by Alan Roberts who has offered the site to the city and given them the first option to buy it. Mayor Pro-Tem Fred Jones and City Manager Hector Forestier started tonight's discussion by giving a brief history of recent events involving the property and then opened the meeting to public comments.

Denise Harlan, Executive Director of the Giddings Area Chamber of Commerce was the first to speak noting that the project had the full support of the Chamber's Board of Directors. She added that the most visited portion of the Chamber of Commerce's website was the area of information relating to "recreation".

Louis Gaeke, owner of Gaeke Construction, then spoke with emotion about helping to build the facility which was a project undertaken by several area citizens who wanted to build the course for the community to enjoy.  

Jeff Dock represented the GISD when he spoke of what the course meant to the students at Giddings High School who compete in the GHS golf program. Mr. Dock focused his comments on the fact that if the course closes for good the golf team will not be able to practice on a regular/daily basis. He noted that a trip to any other area course would not be possible because of time constraints. Several current students who are involved in golf as well as many former players were in attendance but did not speak.

Mark Johnson from Bluebonnet Electric Coop assured Council members that Bluebonnet is in full support of the City purchasing the property and offered BEC's help to see that the project have a successful start. 

 Several other speakers were able to add to the discussion including Jerri Varnado who mentioned that the course is used by area youth and senior citizens as well as all ages in between.

The meeting concluded with only on negative comment about the project. The Council is set to vote on the proposed property purchase at its next meeting on February 4, 2008.         

Little Dribblers 2008 Season Off & Running
1/19/08 Parents, grandparents, fans and supporters came out in full force to support the Giddings area youth as the 2008 Giddings Little Dribblers kicked off their 2008 season today. This weeks schedule will see 13 games at two different gyms with 28 teams total competing for titles in four brackets. Games got under way at 8:00 a.m. at both gyms and are scheduled to last until 6 p.m.
   
Immanuel Lutheran To Observe Heritage Day On Jan. 27
1/13/08 Immanuel Lutheran Church will be celebrating it 125th anniversary in a special way with events to memorialize and celebrate the founding of the church . "Heritage Day" is planned for Sunday, January 27 when former Pastor Wilburn Michalk (retired) will serve as guest speaker for both the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services. Leaders of the church have requested that members dress in the attire of the 1880's, when men sported full beards and women wore full length dresses. Immanuel pastors will don formal black robes as was the norm in the period of the 1880's. Members and guest of the congregation will take part in the heritage based services and enjoy a traditional German feast following the second service. Reservations for the meal are being accepted at the church office, 542-2918.

Little Dribblers To Begin Play Jan. 19th
1/11/08 Giddings Little Dribblers are set to begin play on Saturday Jan. 19th. Children in grades 1 and 2 will play at the Giddings Elementary School gym while grades 3,4,5 and 6 will be competing at the Giddings Intermediate Gym. Children from Giddings and Dime Box are eligible to compete in brackets for children ages 6-12 years. The league will host a separate division for girls in 5 & 6th grades. Action will begin at 8:00 a.m.