Lots Available in Lampasas
Business Park
by Rachel Stanford
During their monthly meeting on May 15th, Lampasas Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Trustees addressed an issue involving signs advertising available lots in the Lampasas Business Park. President of the Board Misti Talbert stated that the signs had given the impression that the entire business park was for sale, which is not accurate. The signs were meant to advertise individual lots within the business park for commercial real estate.
LEDC is considering hiring a real estate broker to help sell available lots in the business park.
LEDC is considering hiring a real estate broker to help sell available lots in the business park.
LISD Special Board Meeting
The Lampasas ISD School Board of Trustees will meet Monday, June 3rd at 5pm for a 2024-2025 Budget Workshop. The meeting will be held in the Administration Building at 207 W 8th Street.
What’s Goin’ On??
Tonight, head to Saloon 37 and enjoy live (and free!) Blues music starting at 7pm. Or, to cap off your week with some extra fun, ride north to Gatesville for the 50th Anniversary of the Gatesville Shivaree, an event similar to Rabbit Fest in Copperas Cove and Spring Ho here in our beloved Lampasas. The carnival is already up and running if you’d like to attend tonight from 7pm-10pm, but Saturday they’ll be out there all day long with vendors, music and more! On Saturday morning, the Farmers’ and Craft Market will be out on the Square early as they go back to summer hours to beat the heat. Catch them from 8am-1pm every Saturday morning all summer long. After stocking up on goodies, support your Badger Cheerleaders at their carwash fundraiser from 9am-2pm at Badger Car Wash. And to the east of us, Nolanville is holding their 4th Annual Monarch Festival from 9am-12pm to celebrate and educate the public about the Monarch migration. There will be vendors, kite flying, music, and even a live monarch release! If you take a peek inside the Radiogram, we have the Monarch festival listed on Sunday but we assure you, that was our mistake. Oops!
On Sunday, the Badger Wrestling team is hosting a Pickleball Tournament at Putters & Gutters to raise money for the 2024-2025 school years’ meets. This past year, a lack of funds kept these amazing competitors from a few of their matches – let’s make sure that doesn’t happen again! The tournament starts at 2pm. The Campfire Bar & Grill team was in the studio this morning to remind folks of their second “1st Sunday Market” this Sunday, June 2nd from 11am-5pm in Copperas Cove, along with their other weekly events. Check out their Facebook page for more.
Coming up next week, Vacation Bible School is launching off at School Creek Baptist Church from Monday to Thursday. On Monday evening, the Lometa United Methodist Church invites local women for food, faith and fellowship at their church beginning at 5pm. They will host the event every 1st Monday through December. If you are able, bring a Bible, a snack to share, a neighbor and a grateful heart! And on Tuesday, attend a free Property Tax Seminar starting at 6pm at New Covenant Church here in Lampasas. You will learn about property taxes, your right to protest, what your rights are and get up to date on property tax reform legislation. The hosts ask that you please bring your Notice of Appraised Value with you.
Love to you, Lampasas, enjoy your weekend!! - MG
On Sunday, the Badger Wrestling team is hosting a Pickleball Tournament at Putters & Gutters to raise money for the 2024-2025 school years’ meets. This past year, a lack of funds kept these amazing competitors from a few of their matches – let’s make sure that doesn’t happen again! The tournament starts at 2pm. The Campfire Bar & Grill team was in the studio this morning to remind folks of their second “1st Sunday Market” this Sunday, June 2nd from 11am-5pm in Copperas Cove, along with their other weekly events. Check out their Facebook page for more.
Coming up next week, Vacation Bible School is launching off at School Creek Baptist Church from Monday to Thursday. On Monday evening, the Lometa United Methodist Church invites local women for food, faith and fellowship at their church beginning at 5pm. They will host the event every 1st Monday through December. If you are able, bring a Bible, a snack to share, a neighbor and a grateful heart! And on Tuesday, attend a free Property Tax Seminar starting at 6pm at New Covenant Church here in Lampasas. You will learn about property taxes, your right to protest, what your rights are and get up to date on property tax reform legislation. The hosts ask that you please bring your Notice of Appraised Value with you.
Love to you, Lampasas, enjoy your weekend!! - MG
Lampasans Love their Live Music!
Last night, Lampasas Radio brought forth the long-awaited return of a fan favorite – Wednesday Night Live! At 7pm sharp, local artists took the stage to warm up the crowd as they trickled in, fresh off of work or simply looking for a change of scenery. The back parking lot filled up as Roland Schaub and Zach Huckabee took the stage, followed by our very own sports broadcaster and correspondent Matt Janacek, backed up by Donnie Price on bass, Dave Peterson on the drums, Joel Allen and Cord Jackson on guitar and his lovely wife Dawn and daughter Joey with vocals. Coming in after Matt was another of our team, the loveable and charismatic Doak Hensley. All played recognizable titles as well as a few of their own. Then came the main event – recording artist and two-time Texas Entertainer of the Year, Pauline Reese! Turquoise mic in hand, Pauline started off reminiscing on stage with Ronnie, reflecting on her time at the station. Always classy, Pauline managed to keep her banter radio-friendly while still entertaining the crowd. Pauline had all eyes on her during her set, singing hits like “Trail to Monterrey” and the fun ode to the Texas tradition of floatin the river, “Banks of the Guadalupe”. Lyndell Lucas wrapped up the night with a song or two as another Wednesday Night Live, the first since Covid hit in 2020, went down in the books. We are grateful to Pauline and all the artists for making time in their schedules to liven up a Wednesday night for us. Until next time, love to you Lampasas! - MG
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month
by Rachel Stanford
On May 28th, at 9:00AM, the Commissioners Court officially declared the month of June Elder Abuse Awareness Month. Commissioner Jamie Smart commented on how overlooked elder abuse is as an issue. Elder abuse is often unreported, meaning that we can’t be certain how often it occurs, and there’s no way to know how many victims receive justice. Professionals from Adult Protective Services, Isabelle Jones and Maria Douglas, introduced themselves to the Commissioners Court. Adult Protective Services caseworkers investigate cases of abuse and exploitation among elderly and disabled adults, similar to Child Protective Services. They also offer shelters, necessities, health services, and mental health services for a brief period of time to victims of elder abuse. Currently, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services states that APS have completed 83,737 elder abuse investigations in Lampasas. If you believe that you or someone you love is a victim of elder abuse, you are encouraged to contact APS at their abuse hotline: 1-800-252-5400.
Lampasas City Council
Last night's workshop session began with a lengthy discussion regarding the draft lease agreement between the County of Lampasas Rodeo Association and the City of Lampasas. Too many variables and unaddressed concerns forced no action on the later agenda item approving a lease agreement. Issues stemmed from finding the proper balanced solutions to accommodate multiple interested parties regarding the scheduling, communication, use, maintenance responsibility, and arena visitor protocols. The main interested party voices in attendance were Assistant City Manager Ryan Ward, presenting the proposal, Chris Harrison and Alexis Thompson from the Rodeo Association, and Samantha Taylor representing the Lampasas Riding Club. Issues also arose and emotions ran high at times regarding the need to accommodate community needs as a public park owned by the taxpayers of the city while balancing the needs of the Rodeo Association in both bringing in events and maintaining the arena grounds. Previously, the City and the Rodeo Association have partnered financially to upgrade the arena and stands in order to draw in larger rodeo events which would generally increase economic activity in Lampasas - a goal of each party. This potential lease agreement will also impact the use of the arena by the general public at times. The potential for minor changes to arena accessibility for the general public in order to accommodate up to 12 special rodeo events per year seem to be some of the sticking points. Councilman Morris suggested the parties get together to work out the issues associated with this partnership as the City is interested in accommodating equally all community stakeholders. Also during Workshop Session, the updated Water Conservation and Drought Contingency Plan was submitted and Assistant Manager Ward explained the changes that were made since the last meeting. Ultimately, Council members will review the full 111 page report for discussion and approval at a future meeting. Mr. Neal Leavell spoke on behalf of the Cooper Spring Nature Park Board in asking the City to approve updated visitor guidelines and regulations. The City approved the new guidelines and they will be added to the City's Code of Ordinances. In a sign of the times, included in the list of ordinances is a drone "no fly zone" over the park. This month, the Lampasas Public Library gave its report. There are 2 full-time and 3 part-time employees at the City Library. The library recorded over 14,000 visits last year, providing access to over 59,000 items in both digital and print form. In total, over 52,000 items were checked out of the library during the past year. Roughly 135 programs were offered throughout the year as well, with over 2,900 attending those programs. In other business, the City also approved an amendment to Ordinance 1148 regarding the pooling of sick leave for City employees. The change will allow for employees to have greater flexibility to potentially help colleagues facing longer term medical needs. The Lampasas Economic Development Council is meeting June 17th @ 5:30pm. - Matthew Janecek
WE LOVE OUR TEACHERS!!
Queszarrah Olson is a Behavioral Interventionist at Lampasas High School, a group of teachers that often goes unnoticed for all they do!! She waS notified of her award with a delivery of balloons to her classroom and congratulatory photo op on April 10th. Congratulations Queszarrah!!
Q: What was it like to receive the honor of Teacher of the Year?
A: I was very honored to have my dedication acknowledged by my coworkers. Contributions of special education teachers, especially those like myself who work more with behavior than academic lessons, tend to not be as obvious. I gladly accept Teacher of the Year for having a hand in assisting high school students to become the best versions of themselves and contributing to our community.
Q: What did your students think of your award?
A: Many of my students were happy I finally got noticed for what I do.
Q: What traits do you hope to bring to your classroom?
A: I want the students who visit my classroom to feel safe, accepted and heard. I role-model and uphold what I want to see. My consistency and fairness builds that investment with students that stick with them for a long time. Humor and humility help a hard time become less difficult to manage. I exhibit patience, calm and forgiveness with those who need it the most.
Q: What words would you like to leave your student’s with at the end of the year?
A: You ultimately are the one responsible for your choices and actions. It’s not easy to make the right decision, but honoring yourself and your feelings will always be worth it. Be sure to surround yourself with the people who encourage and support you to achieve greatness.
Q: What was it like to receive the honor of Teacher of the Year?
A: I was very honored to have my dedication acknowledged by my coworkers. Contributions of special education teachers, especially those like myself who work more with behavior than academic lessons, tend to not be as obvious. I gladly accept Teacher of the Year for having a hand in assisting high school students to become the best versions of themselves and contributing to our community.
Q: What did your students think of your award?
A: Many of my students were happy I finally got noticed for what I do.
Q: What traits do you hope to bring to your classroom?
A: I want the students who visit my classroom to feel safe, accepted and heard. I role-model and uphold what I want to see. My consistency and fairness builds that investment with students that stick with them for a long time. Humor and humility help a hard time become less difficult to manage. I exhibit patience, calm and forgiveness with those who need it the most.
Q: What words would you like to leave your student’s with at the end of the year?
A: You ultimately are the one responsible for your choices and actions. It’s not easy to make the right decision, but honoring yourself and your feelings will always be worth it. Be sure to surround yourself with the people who encourage and support you to achieve greatness.
Lampasas Middle School Tennis Takes District
Below are our results from the Middle School District Tennis Tournament. Coach Laina remarked, “Everyone played so good Saturday! We had several out for band, but we showed up to play through the misty weather and finished just in time before the rain came.”
1st Place
Jack Allison - 7th Boys Singles
Madelynn White - 7th Girls Singles
Bentley/Emerie - 7th Mixed Doubles
2nd Place
Pablo/Alex - 8th Boys Doubles
Hannah/Mattie - 7th Girls Doubles
3rd Place
Nate/Michael - 7th Boys Doubles
Ellie Peiser - 8th Girls Singles
4th Place
Jordan/Maddie - 7th Girls Doubles
Consolation Winners
Porter/Isaac - 8th Boys Doubles
Laetyn/Nolan - 7th Boys Doubles
Haley/Lorelai - 8th Girls Doubles
The team represented Lampasas well. After tallying points awarded for top finishers, your LMS Badger Tennis Team WON 1ST PLACE and are DISTRICT CHAMPS!!!
“I am so proud of how well they played and how much growth everyone showed over the last couple of months,” said Coach Laina. “We even got a compliment on how good our players are! So, if you see a tennis player walking around, be sure to tell them good job!”
1st Place
Jack Allison - 7th Boys Singles
Madelynn White - 7th Girls Singles
Bentley/Emerie - 7th Mixed Doubles
2nd Place
Pablo/Alex - 8th Boys Doubles
Hannah/Mattie - 7th Girls Doubles
3rd Place
Nate/Michael - 7th Boys Doubles
Ellie Peiser - 8th Girls Singles
4th Place
Jordan/Maddie - 7th Girls Doubles
Consolation Winners
Porter/Isaac - 8th Boys Doubles
Laetyn/Nolan - 7th Boys Doubles
Haley/Lorelai - 8th Girls Doubles
The team represented Lampasas well. After tallying points awarded for top finishers, your LMS Badger Tennis Team WON 1ST PLACE and are DISTRICT CHAMPS!!!
“I am so proud of how well they played and how much growth everyone showed over the last couple of months,” said Coach Laina. “We even got a compliment on how good our players are! So, if you see a tennis player walking around, be sure to tell them good job!”
Browning Community Garden Club Flower Show Winners
The Browning Community Garden Club held its annual flower show on May 4th, 2024. There were a total of 157 entries across 5 divisions. Ann Laver won 13 1st place ribbons, earning her the Sweepstakes Award! This rosette is given to the person with the most 1st place entries.
Other winners include:
Ann Laver - Award of Merit; Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts
Anelicia Cheney - Campbell Petite Award; Campbell Table Artistry Award; Campbell Educational Award
Betty Secrest - Award of Design Excellence; Tri-Color Award
Colin Highley - Youth Award
Daniel Logue - Botanical Arts Design; Botanical Arts Photography
Donna Calloway - Horticulture Excellence
Gail Eltgroth - Grower’s Choice Award; Collector’s Showcase
Michelle Potter - Elfin Award; Botanical Arts Horticulture
Paula Boales Pabis - Arboreal Award; Designer’s Choice Award
Other winners include:
Ann Laver - Award of Merit; Botanical Arts Artistic Crafts
Anelicia Cheney - Campbell Petite Award; Campbell Table Artistry Award; Campbell Educational Award
Betty Secrest - Award of Design Excellence; Tri-Color Award
Colin Highley - Youth Award
Daniel Logue - Botanical Arts Design; Botanical Arts Photography
Donna Calloway - Horticulture Excellence
Gail Eltgroth - Grower’s Choice Award; Collector’s Showcase
Michelle Potter - Elfin Award; Botanical Arts Horticulture
Paula Boales Pabis - Arboreal Award; Designer’s Choice Award
WE LOVE OUR TEACHERS!!
It’s National Teacher Appreciation Week, a sentiment that we hold year-round but get to express in a big way each May! The Radiogram reached out to teachers around the County who really stood out to their students, colleagues and parents as Teachers of the Year. We are happy to present the first two, Megan Cantrill and Vonzella Hammons. Let’s show them some love!!
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Megan Cantrill, 3rd grade teacher at Hanna Springs Elementary, was announced as the District Elementary Teacher of the Year on Thursday, April 26th, as well as the Teacher of the Year for her campus earlier in the month!
Q: What was it like to receive the honor of Teacher of the Year? A: It is a huge honor, and I am proud to represent Hanna Springs Elementary School and Lampasas ISD. Q: What did your students think of your award? A: My amazing third-grade class was very excited! Q: What traits do you hope to bring to your classroom? A: I try to see each student as an individual and support their learning with positive encouragement. I challenge them to try their best every day and grow as learners and leaders. Q: What words would you like to leave your student’s with at the end of the year? A: At the end of the year, I want my students to remember how much they have accomplished and to keep following their dreams! |
Vonzella Hammons is a 1st grade teacher at Kline Whitis Elementary. Ms. Hammons was announced Teacher of the Year on April 10th!
Q: What was it like to receive the honor of Teacher of the Year? A: It was such an honor to even be nominated, much less win, Teacher of the Year because there are so many amazing, dedicated educators on my campus. Q: What did your students think of your award? A: My first graders were so excited to share this experience with me. They come to class every day and work just as hard as I do, it felt like they won, too! Q: What traits do you hope to bring to your classroom? A: Our classroom is an extension of the real world. We show kindness and respect to all who enter our room and work together to build others up, as well as ourselves. My goal is for my students to develop a passion for wanting to learn more and to develop kindness and understanding for others. Q: What words would you like to leave your student’s with at the end of the year? A: I plan on reminding my students to give their best effort in all they do, to show kindness to others, and take what we have learned into the real world. I love to remind my students they are our future leaders, and they can turn their dreams into reality one day and I will always be there cheering them on! |
LISD Summer Food Program
(News Release - April 26th) “Lampasas ISD Nutrition Services” WILL SERVE UP GOOD NUTRITION FOR LOCAL CHILDREN THIS SUMMER.
Bringing healthy summer meals to “Lampasas Community” children ensures kids have a healthy vacation and return to school ready to learn.
“Lampasas” – This summer, “Lampasas ISD Nutrition Services” will connect children 18 and younger and enrolled student with disabilities up to 21 years old with healthy, no cost summer meals. The Seamless Summer Food Option (SSO) is a U.S. Department of Agriculture nutrition program administered in the Lone Star State by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). For the children who rely on school meals during the academic year, these meals offer a source of good nutrition when school is out for the long summer vacation.
“‘Lampasas’” children need good nutrition year-round so they can learn, grow, and succeed in life,” said Jessie C Pittman, Director of Nutrition Services. “With nearly 2 million food insecure children living in Texas, these healthy meals are vital to nourishing young Texans during the summer vacation.”
“Summer Meal Program kicks-off at Hanna Springs Elementary on Tuesday May 21, 2024, with breakfast being served from 7:30am to 9:30am. Lunch will be served from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday – Friday through Friday July 19, 2024.”
“Summer Meal Program kicks-off at Taylor Creek Elementary on Monday June 3, 2024, with breakfast being served from 7:30am to 9:30am. Lunch will be served from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday – Thursday through Thursday June 27, 2024.”
Bringing healthy summer meals to “Lampasas Community” children ensures kids have a healthy vacation and return to school ready to learn.
“Lampasas” – This summer, “Lampasas ISD Nutrition Services” will connect children 18 and younger and enrolled student with disabilities up to 21 years old with healthy, no cost summer meals. The Seamless Summer Food Option (SSO) is a U.S. Department of Agriculture nutrition program administered in the Lone Star State by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). For the children who rely on school meals during the academic year, these meals offer a source of good nutrition when school is out for the long summer vacation.
“‘Lampasas’” children need good nutrition year-round so they can learn, grow, and succeed in life,” said Jessie C Pittman, Director of Nutrition Services. “With nearly 2 million food insecure children living in Texas, these healthy meals are vital to nourishing young Texans during the summer vacation.”
“Summer Meal Program kicks-off at Hanna Springs Elementary on Tuesday May 21, 2024, with breakfast being served from 7:30am to 9:30am. Lunch will be served from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday – Friday through Friday July 19, 2024.”
“Summer Meal Program kicks-off at Taylor Creek Elementary on Monday June 3, 2024, with breakfast being served from 7:30am to 9:30am. Lunch will be served from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday – Thursday through Thursday June 27, 2024.”