Columns/Opinions

I assume that folks who read these columns are at least somewhat interested in Nature and our native habitat. If this describes you, then there are two brand-new books out that will interest you.

The first book is "Seasons at Selah: The Legacy of Bamberger Ranch Preserve." This book was so much anticipated that I put my name on a list to buy a copy even before the actual publication. Why was it so anticipated? Because of the subject involved and the people who made it happen.

The subject is J. David Bamberger and his legendary work to restore a worn-out ranch in Blanco County into the showcase Bamberger Ranch Preserve we see today, and to educate thousands of Texans on how to manage their land.

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By Nancy Bannister

Reading Recommendations: Marie Thérése, Child of Terror: The Fate of Marie Antoinetté's Daughter, Susan Nagel -

In December 1795, on the midnight stroke of her 17th birthday, Marie Thérése, the only surviving child of Marie Antoinetté and Louis XVI, fled Paris's notorious Temple Prison, kept in solitary confinement after her parents' brutal execution during the Terror, she had been unaware of the fate of her family, save the cries she heard of her young brother being tortured in the next cell.

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It’s human nature to think that things won’t happen in your town. For those of us in San Saba County, especially Richland Springs, it’s also human nature to think that the storms will always go around us. It seems that every time there’s a good rain headed right toward our little town, it always splits and goes around us. It’s the stuff of lore from all the old timers around here.

When a massive historic storm had a bull’s eye right on Richland Springs two Friday’s ago, I think I can speak for many, that we were shocked to say the least. Fortunately, it is also human nature to help your neighbor in times of crisis. And help they did. The community of Richland Springs has so many people and organizations to thank. If you’ll grant us the indulgence of thanking them here, I’d be appreciative.

By Sharon Hayes

San Saba Sew-N-Sews are hosting a Quilter’s Round-up next Saturday afternoon, June 2nd, 2-4 p.m. at the Parkview Baptist Church in San Saba, Texas. We want to give an invitation to those interested in quilting, and experienced quilters to come and share one quilt at this event.

The quilts will be displayed on the pews in the sanctuary and each quilter will have an opportunity to share the story of that quilt. You will be able to see ideas and techniques that are truly unique and special. The combination of colors and quilt patterns for blocks will be a great learning time for all attending.

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By Sue Ransom

This has been a Memorial Day to remember in more than one way. Praise God for our precious troops, and thank God that no one was seriously hurt this weekend. The weather service says it was sheer winds not a tornado. The damage throughout the area and especially in town has been extensive. In times of adversity the good folks step in and help out. That has certainly been the case here as supplies have come in from Brady, Brownwood and San Saba. I believe some came in from Rochelle as well. The response has been a blessing for all involved. Donations are coming in for those who have no insurance to pay for their repairs. Once things settle down a little bit, the information will be posted for those who require help. I hate for our little community to finally make the local news in this fashion.

By Sue Ransom

I don’t know what it is about simultaneously watching a rain shower at the same time as the sun is shining, but it just makes my heart happy. It shouldn’t, because I know that means the rain that we need so desperately is going to stop. Still, watching the rain this morning with the sun making each drop sparkle was a joyous way to start the day.

By Jo Price

The rain came down early Sunday morning. It was just a small amount two-tenths, but any moisture at all is more than welcome. Monday is cloudy with a promise of rain.

This is the last week of school and of course there are all sorts of things going on. The first year band students are having their first concert Monday and then the grade school will have their awards given out, which is always a big thing for the students.

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By Sue Ransom

The final push is here, and the teachers and students are trying to get it all done. I have students in my classroom constantly working to finish their science fair projects. I don’t know what I will do next year because I will only have one classroom from which to teach. It has been convenient for all the teachers to send students with extra work to the vacant classroom. We will be getting a new teacher and that person will be using my classroom. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted. The extra teaching time will more than make up for the loss of a room.

By Jo Price

The last day of school is May 24th and everyone is excited and making plans for the summer months ahead.

No rain this past week, but just maybe there will be some this next week.

Sunday was Mother’s Day and it would seem everyone had a very enjoyable day. Jack and Lanell Daniels went to Lometa to eat lunch and ran into Thomas and Sheila Smithhart, Jerome and Shirley Meischen and Louise Barefoot and her son from Lampasas.

The home of William and Jane Clark was also a busy place Sunday.

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By Dr. Don Newbury

My Mother’s Potato Salad…

Soon after the inception of this column more than 15 years ago, I committed to sharing noteworthy recipes with readers from time to time. A dozen weeks into my writing regimen, I shared a cinnamon toast recipe.

It elicited no response- -favorable or otherwise--so I have been reluctant to make culinary suggestions--until now. I expect no drumrolls, but I do admit “chest-swelling” with the mere mention of my saintly mother’s potato salad.

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