In a letter dated April 15, district officials said the report stemmed from a social media post about a possible bat sighting on campus on April 14.

“Bandera ISD has protocols that are carried out when we receive a report for any incident of this nature on campus,” the letter stated, adding that “the safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priorities.”

School officials urged families to take precautions, noting that bats can carry rabies, a rare but serious viral infection transmitted through bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

“While not all bats are infected, it is important to take any potential exposure seriously,” the district wrote.

Parents were instructed to seek medical attention immediately if a child had direct contact with a bat or with any wounded or dead animal, or if contact cannot be ruled out.

“Prompt evaluation is critical, as rabies is preventable when treated early,” the letter stated, noting that health care providers can determine whether post-exposure vaccination is necessary.

The district also encouraged parents to monitor children for unusual symptoms and to consult medical professionals or local health authorities with concerns. Contact information for the Bandera County Health Department and the Texas Department of State Health Services was included in the notice.

No additional details about the incident were immediately released.

The petition follows a fatal head-on collision March 24 near Enchanted Springs Ranch.

Area resident Brad Dobson launched the effort, urging Tx-DOT to prioritize widening the highway, a move he said would improve safety, ease congestion and support economic growth.

The petition, posted at https:// www.change.org/p/widen-statehighway- 46-between-boerneand- pipe-creek, describes Texas 46 as “a vital corridor in our daily lives” that remains “dangerously narrow and inadequate for the ever-increasing traffic it supports.” It cites a rise in crashes, attributing many to narrow lanes and a lack of sufficient shoulders for safe travel or emergency stops.

Dobson said frustration with the state agency’s inaction continues to grow, especially as fatalities persist along the roughly 11-mile stretch connecting State Highway 16 in Bandera to Interstate 10 in Boerne.

“Is widening Texas 46 the answer? I don’t know. Is installing a center turn-only lane the answer? I don’t know,” Dobson said. “Are center-lane barriers the answer? I don’t know. But the fact we keep having deaths and nothing’s being done is not the answer.”

The Bandera County Commissioners Court approved a resolution April 7 calling on Tx-DOT to make upgrades along the corridor, citing increasing traffic volumes and a history of fatal crashes extending from Kendall County into Bandera County.

The resolution states Texas 46 is “totally inadequate to handle the volume of traffic between State Highway 16 and Interstate 10 in Bandera and Kendall counties,” adding that Tx-DOT has received repeated requests for improvements without a firm commitment or timeline.

According to crash data from TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Division covering the Texas 46 West corridor between Texas 16 and Interstate 10 from 2016 through March 2026, there have been 550 reported crashes, including 10 fatal crashes resulting in 13 deaths. An additional 44 people were seriously injured.

More than half of the fatalities — eight of 13 — involved head-on collisions, with 10 occurring within the past five years.

The petition states traffic congestion has become a daily frustration for residents, commuters and travelers, and warns that continued residential and commercial growth will further strain the roadway if improvements are not made.

Signers of the petition have shared personal stories and concerns.

“I drive from Lakehills to Boerne and back every single day. This road terrifies me. I refuse to drive it with my kids in the car. Something needs to be done now,” one commenter wrote.

Another signer, Colin Pena, said his father, Mickey Pena, and his father’s girlfriend, Marcia LaRochelle, were killed in a crash on Texas 46 on Jan. 5, 2025.

“Robert Delmon Gray was intoxicated and hit them head-on,” Pena said. “If only there was a center divider, they might still be alive and with us today. The fact that TxDOT has not made this highway safer is unacceptable.”

Pena added that the dangers of the highway are widely known.

“They know it’s unsafe, as we all do,” he said. “Put in a concrete center divider. Make it wider. If Texas is too cheap to save lives, I’ll come get my hands dirty and help do the work myself.”

TxDOT data over a 10-year period from 2016 through March 2026 shows:

• 550 total reported crashes

• 13 fatalities in 10 fatal crashes

• 44 serious injuries

• 94 minor injuries

• At least 151 total injuries or deaths Planned improvements through 2029 include repaving and the addition of turn lanes, but do not include a center median, according to officials.

Alamo Regional Transit, or ART, is a program of the Alamo Area Council of Governments, a regional organization that coordinates services among local governments in South Central Texas.

ART provides public transportation across a 12-county region, including Bandera County, with a focus on rural mobility.

The Bandera Connect route operates Monday through Friday and links key locations in the city of Bandera with Lake Medina Shores, offering residents access to essential services, shopping and medical care.

According to materials released by the Alamo Area Council of Governments, the route includes stops at several high-traffic and community locations.

In the city of Bandera, stops include the Arthur Nagel Clinic, Silver Sage Senior Center, Bandera Lowe’s Market, the county courthouse, Kronkosky Public Library, Silver Sage Home Goods and Dollar General locations.

The route then extends south toward Lake Medina Shores, with stops at Dollar General on Wharton Dock Road, Lake Medina Community Pool, Walker Community Church and Copper Lantern.

Service begins with the first run at 9:30 a.m. and continues throughout the day, with the final run at 5 p.m., according to the schedule shown on the flyer.

Unlike ART’s traditional demand- response service, Bandera Connect follows a fixed route with designated stops.

Riders can board at these locations, and materials note that drivers may also stop when flagged along the route.

The flyer also indicates that deviations from the fixed route are available upon request within three-quarters of a mile, provided riders call ahead of time.

Additional deviation stops include the Bandera Family Practice Clinic and Bandera CVS Pharmacy.

Fares are listed at $1 per ride for the Bandera Connect service, though the flyer notes the fare is currently suspended.

ART vehicles are ADA-compliant and include features such as wheelchair accessibility, bike racks and free Wi-Fi, according to the flyer.

Officials say the service is intended to improve mobility for residents who may not have consistent transportation, connecting rural communities to everyday needs and services across Bandera County.

For more information or to plan a trip, residents can contact ART dispatch at 1-866-889-7433 or visit the AACOG website at aacog.gov/art.

Competing with a roster of just five athletes, Bandera turned in what coaches described as a complete team effort, highlighted by two school records and multiple podium finishes.

Milesia Casas led the charge, capturing first place in both the 800-meter run and the 400 meters. Her time of 56.26 seconds in the 400 set a new school record.

The 4x400-meter relay team of Merry Robinson, Casas, Cassi Williams and Sydney Moore also set a school record, winning the event with a time of 3:55.39.

Madison Davis earned a second-place finish in discus, while Moore added two more silver medals in the 100-meter hurdles and 400 meters.

Robinson placed third in the 200 meters and finished fourth in the 100 meters, recording a personal best in the latter. Williams also qualified for regionals in the 300-meter hurdles with a personal- record performance.

Bandera will compete next at the Region 4-4A Meet, scheduled for May 1–2 in Kingsville.

The measure, titled the Measures Against Marxism’s Dangerous Adherents and Noxious Islamists Act — or MAMDANI Act — seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow federal authorities to deport, deny admission to or strip citizenship from noncitizens tied to specific political or religious movements outlined in the bill.

Under the proposal, individuals connected to socialist or communist organizations — including the Chinese Communist Party — as well as groups categorized in the legislation as “Islamic fundamentalist,” could face immigration penalties.

The bill also targets those who express support for those ideologies, with language defining advocacy broadly to include producing, sharing or possessing supportive materials.

Roy said the legislation is aimed at addressing what he views as ideological threats entering the country through immigration.

“Our immigration system has been used in ways that undermine American workers and introduce ideas that conflict with our founding principles,” Roy said in a statement announcing the bill.

The legislation names several organizations that would fall under its restrictions, including groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah and Boko Haram. It also provides a limited exemption for individuals whose involvement with the specified ideologies occurred before age 14.

The bill’s acronym appears to reference New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a naturalized U.S. citizen and democratic socialist who immigrated to the United States from Uganda as a child.

Mamdani’s office has not publicly responded to the proposal.

Roy has previously backed similar efforts.

In October, he introduced the Sharia-Free America Act, which proposed restricting entry for foreign nationals based on adherence to Islamic law.

Data from the Pew Research Center estimates the U.S. Muslim population at about 3.45 million as of 2017.

The bill has been introduced in Congress and awaits further consideration.

According to TxDOT, more than 28,000 traffic crashes occurred in Texas work zones in 2025, resulting in 203 deaths, including seven roadside workers. Most of those killed were drivers or passengers, underscoring the risks motorists face when traveling through construction areas.

With more than 1,800 active work zones statewide, TxDOT officials said increased roadway construction tied to Texas’ growth makes driver awareness critical.

“Maintaining a safe highway system requires year-round effort from brave and dedicated work crews,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said in a news release. “Unfortunately, work zone crashes happen far too often. It’s crucial that drivers slow down, pay attention and give workers space.”

TxDOT encourages drivers to reduce speed, stay alert and avoid distractions when entering work zones. Officials also stress the importance of leaving adequate following distance, obeying posted signage and allowing extra travel time to account for delays.

Drivers are also reminded to follow the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law, which requires motorists to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching vehicles with flashing lights, including law enforcement, emergency responders and highway workers.

The campaign is part of TxDOT’s “Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe.” initiative, which promotes safer driving habits statewide.

Although reasonable care is taken, clerical errors may exist.

In the section where those individuals who are arrested and booked are listed, law enforcement entities are denoted by the following abbreviations: SO – Sheriff’s Office; BTM – Bandera Town Marshal; DPS – Texas Department of Public Safety; PCT – Precinct/Constable; TPW – Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Based on the Bandera County Sheriff's Office report for April 13 through April 20, here is the arrest report and jail population with ages included: David Traylor Rutherford, 62, of Medina was arrested on April 14 on a misdemeanor warrant from another agency.

Terry Newton Smith, 51, of Bandera was arrested on April 17 for driving while a license was invalid with a previous conviction and without financial responsibility.

Wiley Ray DSpain IV, 24, of Bandera was arrested on April 18 for driving while intoxicated.

Phillip Wayne Parsons, 25, of San Antonio was arrested on April 18 for simple assault causing bodily injury to a family member.

Colsten James McNeely, 23, of Bandera was arrested on April 19 for driving while intoxicated.

As of Monday, April 20, the jail report indicates a total population of 49 inmates, consisting of 37 males and 12 females, with four contract inmates from Real County

That is more than twice the projected cost in the previous state water plan published in 2022.

The draft report, released by the Texas Water Development Board, says the increased costs are due to inflation in construction costs, more frequent droughts and a decline in existing water supplies as the state’s aquifers become depleted.

The state last year earmarked spending $20 billion over the next two decades for water infrastructure and supply projects — an amount that falls far short of what will be needed, according to some experts.

“This figure validates concerns that $1 billion a year is not going to be sufficient to meet the infrastructure needs to ensure our water supply,” said Perry Fowler, executive director of the Texas Water Infrastructure Network, a construction trade coalition for water projects.

The state water plan is created with input from 16 regional planning groups that identify future water needs in their regions and how to meet them. The draft plan is open for public comment and can be accessed here: https://tinyurl. com/3ktz5fpm.

Talarico raises record $27 million; Cornyn leads Paxton in fundraising State Rep. James Talarico raised a record $27 million in the first quarter of this year, the largest-ever sum for any Senate candidate in any state in the first quarter of an election year, The Texas Tribune reported.

“Winning in Texas will require unprecedented resources,” said Seth Krasne, Talarico’s campaign manager. “This grassroots fundraising haul puts our movement in a strong position to spread our message in some of the most expensive media markets in the country. But we can’t take our foot off of the gas.”

Talarico has raised more than $40 million since entering the race last September from more the 540,000 individual contributors.

On the Republican side, where incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn is heading to a May 26 runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, Cornyn outraised his opponent by fourfold, pulling in $9 million in the first quarter. Paxton raised $2.2 million “The Cornyn campaign continues performing at a high level, building off the over performance in the March (3) primary to announcing a massive fundraising haul in the first quarter of 2026,” Cornyn campaign manager Andy Hemming said.

Judge orders Camp Mystic to preserve cabins where girls died An Austin state district judge ordered Camp Mystic’s owners not to alter, repair or demolish cabins that housed campers and counselors who died in last year’s July 4 flood along the Guadalupe River, southwest of Kerrville.

The flood killed 25 girls, two counselors and one of the owners of the camp.

The camp’s owners are being sued by the parents of 8-year-old Cile Steward, the only victim whose body has not been recovered. Other parents of children who died in the floods also have lawsuits pending.

“This finding is supported by facts tending to show that defendants owed a duty of care to Cile Steward and other minor campers, which they breached by operating Camp Mystic in a high-risk zone without adequate flood protections,” Judge Guerra Gamble wrote.

The injunction remains in place until the lawsuit is resolved or the court rules otherwise. The judge set a trial date of May 3, 2027.

SNAP rule forces recipients to read food labels Changes in what can be purchased under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are now in place in Texas, and consumers are spending more time examining the ingredients label, the Texas Standard reported.

SNAP benefits can no longer be used to buy candy or sweetened beverages under Texas Senate Bill 379 passed last year. That includes drinks with more than 5 grams of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener.

The ban does not include baking sugar or sweet cereals, however. The guidelines do not provide an itemized list, so retailers must interpret them and apply them to the food items they sell.

“You use Google a lot to get the internet’s interpretation. You look at the law and how it’s written,” said John Robertson of Austin’s Fresh Plus grocery stores.

Data-center owners grilled by legislators

Texas lawmakers grilled data-center developers, energy companies and grid officials recently on the impact of the state’s data- center boom, the Houston Chronicle reported. Grid officials say they are proposing regulations that will ensure Texas can handle data centers without raising electricity costs for consumers or risking power blackouts.

Officials from various Texas energy companies said data centers could help upgrade the state’s grid infrastructure.

“If we have an opportunity to have new customers coming to the state pay for that, we'll have done some really good work,” said Brian Lloyd with Dallas- based Oncor Electric Delivery, the Texas utility with by far the most data centers seeking to connect to its system.

Thomas Gleeson, chairman of the Public Utility Commission, told lawmakers his agency is working with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the grid operator, on rules to encourage data centers to bring their own power generation to help prevent price spikes.

“I honestly don't think on the generation side you're going to see a large increase in costs at this point, because we have so many renewables and batteries on the system,” Gleeson said.

Amount of state in drought increases again Near the end of March, 89% of the state was in drought, according to hydrologist Mark Wentzel with the Texas Water Development Board. That is the largest extent of drought in nearly four years, Wentzel wrote. In addition to continued dry conditions, average March temperatures were 66.8 degrees, beating the previous record by more than 1.5 degrees.

Wentzel said there is some reason for optimism with a wet, cooler start to April and a forecast of drought contraction in much of the state, except for the Panhandle and West Texas by early summer.

“Also note that we’ve set a new monthly record every year since 2021. In 2021, we set the record for the hottest December. In 2022, it was the hottest July, hottest September in 2023, October in 2024 and November in 2025,” he wrote.

Now March 2026 can be added to that list.

Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com

The rally is scheduled to arrive along 11th Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of its 2026 route from Miami to Mexico City.

Gumball 3000 is a seven- day, 3,000-mile road rally that blends car culture, entertainment and celebrity appearances.

Founded in 1999, the event is known for featuring high-end supercars driven by a mix of entrepreneurs, influencers and public figures.

Organizers emphasize the rally is “a rally, not a race,” focusing on the experience rather than competition.

Bandera’s stop is expected to serve as a high-energy lunch break before participants continue south toward the U.S.-Mexico border.

Event organizers say the public can expect a festival-like atmosphere throughout the afternoon, including cattle drive parades, live music, gun shows and merchandise vendors.

The event is free and open to the public, with no tickets required.

The rally regularly draws large crowds in host cities, offering spectators an up-close look at rare and exotic vehicles while blending local culture with the global car event.

Bandera was selected in part for its identity as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” providing a Texas Hill Country backdrop for the rally’s cross-country route.

Organizers encourage attendees to follow official Gumball 3000 social media channels for updates ahead of the event.

• Steak Night, 6 p.m., 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796 4849. Bring your own steak and grill it yourself at this longtime Bandera tradition.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Enjoy an evening of family-friendly outdoor fun with rides, campfires and sweet treats.

THURSDAY, APRIL 23 • Cowboy Capital Golf Tournament, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. A four-person scramble hosted by the chamber, featuring a 1 p.m. shotgun start, followed by dinner and awards.

• Nature Walk, 9 a.m., Lost Maples State Natural Area, 830-966-3413. Explore local wildlife and plants on a guided morning walk; binoculars encouraged.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Evening rides and campfire activities for all ages.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24

• City Nature Challenge (April 24–27). Help document local wildlife by taking photos and uploading observations to iNaturalist.

• Blood Drive, 2–7 p.m., Bandera Brewery, 830-522 2246. Donate blood and receive a free T-shirt and pint coupon.

• Big Jeans Paint Party, 4–9 p.m., First National Ice Haus, 646-734-9754. A creative night of painting, socializing and local flair.

• Catfish Fry-Day, 4 p.m., Al’s Hideaway, 830-510-3331. Enjoy fresh fried catfish served until it’s gone.

• Bob Stewart Live, 6:30–9:30 p.m., Wild West Bar & Grill at Flying L Ranch, 830-796 7746. Live music in a relaxed Hill Country setting.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Family-friendly outdoor evening activities.

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 • Nature Challenge continues. Explore and document nature across the region.

• Cowboys on Main, 10 a.m. and noon, Western Trail Heritage Park. Free Old West reenactments bring Bandera’s cowboy history to life.

• Bandera Gunfighters, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Rattlesnake Ridge. Live shootout performances with familyfriendly Western storytelling.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Evening outdoor fun for all ages.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

• City Nature Challenge continues. Participate by photographing and sharing local wildlife.

• Sunday Horseback Ride and Chuckwagon Breakfast, 9–11 a.m., Major Hope Corral, 830-328-2203. Ride, rope and enjoy a cowboy-style breakfast.

• Sunday Funday with Bandera Equine Posse, noon, 210 Cypress St. Community trail ride and lunch supporting a local nonprofit.

• Frontier Times Museum Jamboree, 1–4 p.m., Frontier Times Museum, 830-796 3864. Live music and storytelling, featuring a tribute to Mary Schenk.

MONDAY, APRIL 27

• City Nature Challenge concludes. Final day to submit observations.

• Monday Night Potluck, 5 p.m., Paniolo Winery. Bring a dish and enjoy themed dinners with the community.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Wrap up the day with a relaxed evening outdoors.

The meeting will be held at the lecture hall at 125 Lehmann Drive in Kerrville and will bring together members from Bandera, Gillespie and Kerr counties.

Hill Country Resistance, a nonpartisan group formed in early 2025, organized its first rally as part of the nationwide “Hands Off” demonstrations at the Kerr County Courthouse.

The group has since drawn participants from across the region, with rallies growing in size and aligning with broader national protests.

Although not affiliated with a political party, members of the Democratic women’s group have participated in the rallies.

The May 5 presentation is expected to focus on organizing efforts beyond downtown demonstrations, as well as past and future protest activity. Local concerns, including immigration enforcement, are also expected to be discussed.

The luncheon will also mark the installation of newly elected officers for the 2026-27 term, including Vice President LaShay McKeel, Secretary Evelyn Allbritton and Treasurer Karel Bennett.

Organizers say group is expected to play a role in upcoming elections, including the May 26 runoff and the Nov. 3 general election.

Check-in begins at 11:15 a.m., followed by a business meeting at 11:45 a.m. The program will begin at noon, with the meeting concluding at 1 p.m.

The event is open to the public, but reservations are required by May 2. Attendees may purchase a box lunch for $15 or opt for a beverage-only option for $5, or bring their own meal.

Bandera County commissioners Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution calling on the Texas Department of Transportation to make upgrades on 46, citing rising traffic volumes and a history of deaths along the corridor stretching west from Kendall County into Bandera County.

Commissioners are asking the state to outline planned improvements, including definite timelines and a commitment to prioritize the project within the agency’s San Antonio district.

The resolution notes, “Too many lives have been lost.”

As of press time, TxDOT had not responded to the Bulletin’s request for comment.

According to crash data from TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Division covering the 46 West corridor between Texas 16 and Interstate 10 West from 2016 through March, there have been 550 reported crashes, including 10 fatal wrecks resulting in 13 deaths, with an additional 44 people seriously injured.

More than half of the fatalities — eight of 13 — involved headon collisions, and 10 of those occurred within the past five years.

Among those killed were members of a Bandera County family in October 2024 and a 21-year-old Bandera man in a March 24 collision.

The resolution states that 46 is “totally inadequate to handle the volume of traffic” in Bandera and Kendall counties and notes that previous requests to TxDOT have not resulted in a firm timeline for improvements. TxDOT data also identifies 46 West as the highest-traffic rural roadway in Bandera County, with a designated “crash-density hotspot” along the corridor.

Current planned improvements through 2029 include repaving and the addition of turn lanes, but do not include a center median, officials said.

A Bandera man has pleaded guilty to three counts of manslaughter in connection with a 2024 crash on Texas 46 that killed a family of three, Kendall County prosecutors said Friday, April 10.

Carl Sidney Galm, 60, entered the plea April 10 in Judge Kirsten Cohoon’s 451st state District Court as part of an agreement supported by the victims’ surviving family members, according to the Kendall County District Attorney’s Office.

Galm was sentenced to 18 years in prison and fined $10,000.

Prosecutors said Galm must serve at least nine years before becoming eligible for parole. He had no prior criminal history, court records indicate.

The charges stem from a head-on collision Oct. 29, 2024, on 46 West.

Investigators said Galm was driving a Ford F-250 westbound after leaving Boerne when the crash occurred about 7:45 p.m. more than six miles outside of town.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, multiple witnesses reported a long line of traffic behind an 18-wheeler.

Investigators said Galm attempted to circumvent the line of vehicles in a no-passing zone on an uphill curve, crossing a double yellow line.

Authorities said Galm drove around at least five vehicles before his truck collided head-on with a Toyota Corolla driven by Roger Louis Waid.

Investigators said Galm was traveling 93 mph just seconds before the impact.

Waid, his wife Patricia Ann Waid and their teenage daughter Blake Lynn Waid died at the scene.

At the time, Galm was taken to a San Antonio hospital with minor injuries. A blood test revealed no drugs nor alcohol in his system.

“The 18-year plea agreement reflects the gravity of the unjustified risks taken that evening,” according to a prepared release from the District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation was led by the DPS with assistance from the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office, the Boerne Fire Department, the Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Kendall County Emergency Medical Services and Bandera Emergency Medical Services.

The case was prosecuted by Steven Belt and Derly Chapa.

Conducted by Donald Allman, the certified public accountant for the city, the audit noted the net worth of the city of Bandera government at $11,820,824, of which $2,245,646 serves as an unrestricted net position to be used by the mayor, currently Denise Griffin, and the City Council however they choose to benefit the city. The city also saw an increase in net position, or net income, of $504,219.

Several key takeaways were provided by Allman: Water, sewer and sanitation income increased $118,000, a 6% rise that indicates economic growth. Just as significantly, water, sewer and sanitation expenses decreased $197,000, or 11%, a strong indicator of good fiscal management, according to Wright.

Allman credited Wright with the city’s clean audit.

“I can’t say enough great

SEE AUDIT FINDINGS, PAGE 4 things about Allyson Wright,” Allman said. “She did a great job getting all the accounting information together. Definitely one of the best treasurers, finance directors, accounting managers — whatever you want to call it.”

When Wright came onboard as city treasurer in 2022, the city had eight findings in its audit. In 2023, there were three findings; in 2024, two; and in 2025 — the year audited — there were zero findings.

“A finding in a municipal audit is a formally reported deficiency,” Wright said. “A weakness in internal controls, or an instance of noncompliance with laws, regulations or grant agreements discovered by auditors.”

The 2025 audit also found that the city of Bandera had a net position increase in governmental funds of $338,184. The report covered the 2025 fiscal year through Sept. 30, 2025.

I don't think there is a clear definition as it seems to have changed with the newer generations. Is it just another one of those Bandera things? I've done a little bit of world traveling in my time and never encountered the term anywhere but here in my hometown.

Back in the day I certainly never heard folks from my mom and dad's generation ever mention it. Had it been posed to them, I feel certain that their response would have been a lot different than mine. I have been using and hearing those words since my high school days.

People around my son's age have heard and used the term too but surely it has a different meaning. For instance, most of them might be able to tell you what a counter check was back in the day, but I guarantee they never filled one out.

That always brings to mind a favorite story involving Jim Foster and my aunt Smokey Kindla and the check written out on a tortilla. The bank honored it because things in Bandera were truly different back in the day.

I hesitate to even venture a guess about my granddaughter's age group thoughts on the matter of back in the day things.

'What's a counter check, Bruh?'

In fairness, I have to admit I have never used a cash app or venmo either because I am from so far back in the day. I relied heavily on her assistance years ago as I struggled to learn about navigating the internet while entering the computer phase of my life.

Both of my grandfather's experiences of back in the day would have involved horse and buggies, chopping firewood with an axe but never even a thought of a man walking on the moon although they both lived to see it on tv. Amazing!

As they would say back in their days, 'Put that in your pipe and smoke it'.

Some more of the lost terms from back in their day that you aren't likely to hear being used nowdays would be, hornswoggle, rapscallion, reprobate, blowhard, scalawag, gadabout or mollycoddle. I don't recall the nuns ever mentioning those while I was receiving my early education at St. Joseph Catholic School in Bandera.

Then there were some harsh terms that might raise more than an eyebrow if used in modern day conversation.

Some things like nincompoop, skinflint, ignoramus, codger, coot, goodie two-shoes, fogey or hellion might get you popped on the old Schnozzola by some chicken-livered cockamamie scoundrel.

Unfortunately, I never got to know my grandma Kindla, but I heard that she was a flapper back in her day. Back when 'putting on the ritz' and 'the cat's pajama's' were common phrases. Her generation called a convertible car a breezer. How cool is that? That's one I had never heard of until recently while doing some research.

I just might start using some of those old sayings just for fun while I continue writing stories of growing up in Bandera back in the day.

The project will be featured in a 4D theater at the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum, which is scheduled to open in 2027. The theater is designed as an immersive experience using visual effects, sound and physical elements to recreate the historic battle.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said he approached Sheridan after reviewing plans for the theater.

“Once I saw the plan for the theater, I knew there was only one screenwriter, film producer, and director in the world to make this film for the Alamo Museum – Taylor Sheridan,” Patrick said. “Over the last decade, Taylor has told the story of the American west — the people, the land, the depth, and the history — in a way no other filmmaker has.”

Patrick said Sheridan agreed quickly to take on the project.

“I reached out to Taylor and asked if he would consider filming and directing this historic project at the Alamo,” Patrick said. “Despite his incredible schedule, he did not hesitate before enthusiastically answering yes.”

Sheridan said he viewed the project as an opportunity to honor those who fought in the battle. “The Alamo is the very bedrock Texas was founded upon,” he said. “To chronicle the sacrifice made by the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives defending the Alamo is an honor I eagerly accept.”

Although reasonable care is taken, clerical errors may exist.

In the section where those individuals who are arrested and booked are listed, law enforcement entities are denoted by the following abbreviations: SO – Sheriff’s Office; BTM – Bandera Town Marshal; DPS – Texas Department of Public Safety; PCT – Precinct/Constable; TPW – Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Emileigh Payge Cowart of Poteet was arrested on April 8 on multiple local warrants.

Deborah Ann Rojas of Lakehills was arrested on April 9 on a local warrant.

Allison Mary Throne of San Antonio was arrested on April 11 for possession of a controlled substance (PG 1/1-B < 1G).

As of Monday, April 13, the jail report indicates a total population of 59 inmates, consisting of 43 males and 16 females, with nine contract inmates from Real County.

Without that unity, Patrick said state Rep. James Talarico, the Democratic nominee, could win the U.S. Senate race, The Dallas Morning News reported.

State House Speaker Justin Burrows said he believes the GOP will keep its majority in the chamber but agreed unity is critical.

“We've got to be on the same page,” Burrows said. “We've got to be working and rowing in the same direction.”

Democrats, who have not held a majority in either chamber in more than 20 years, would have to flip 14 Republican seats to achieve a majority in the 150-member House.

Data centers set to get billions in tax breaks

An exemption for the state’s booming data center industry means Texas will lose $3.2 billion in sales tax revenue over the next two years, The Texas Tribune reported.

Lawmakers say they will consider proposals to either limit the tax break or eliminate it altogether when they meet in January for the next legislative session.

“These new numbers are extremely concerning, and I will say they’re unsustainable,” said state Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, the chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Finance. “I plan to look at filing legislation to either repeal the exemption or take a very close look at it and see.”

The tax break was approved by lawmakers in 2014, when there were far fewer data centers and they were much smaller. If nothing changes, exemptions could reach $1.75 billion annually by 2030.

The state already has more than 300 active data centers, with more than 100 additional projects either under development or planned.

Texas could face $700 million in SNAP penalties New federal rules designed to cut waste in the nation’s food stamp program means Texas taxpayers will have to pay $700 million more each year to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, The Tribune reported.

Officials with Texas Health and Human Services disclosed this to lawmakers at a recent committee hearing.

Almost 9% of the state’s SNAP payments had an error, slightly better than the national rate of 11%. Texas has until October 2027 to bring the error rate down below 6%.

The error rate is based on unintentional mistakes by either the agency or the client receiving the benefits that result in an overpayment or underpayment Nearly one-fourth of the state’s population gets some type of assistance from Texas Health and Human Services.

“We are dealing today with a health care epidemic, but not from a disease or virus,” said Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, the committee chairwoman. “With scandals in places like Minnesota and California drawing national attention, we, as Texans, must examine our own system and see how we measure up to other states.”

Court pauses smokable cannabis ban, higher fees A Travis County district judge has temporarily lifted a statewide ban on the sale of smokeable hemp products, The Texas Tribune reported. The temporary restraining order is in effect until at least April 23, when another hearing is scheduled.

Texas hemp companies sued to block new state rules that have wiped out a huge portion of the legal cannabis market, the Texas Standard reported. The rules took effect March 31 and prevented stores from selling smokable hemp products and vastly increased licensing fees.

Smokable products make up the vast majority of hemp sales in the state.

“I estimated that flower is about half the market and smokable products put together including vapes are about two-thirds of the market,” said Robin Goldstein, a University of California economist who researches cannabis markets. He said the Texas market had about $4 billion in retail sales annually.

The plaintiffs are also suing over a jump in annual licensing fees for manufacturers from $250 to $10,000. Retailers must now pay $5,000 per store, up from $150.

“These provisions function not merely as regulatory tools, but as significant economic barriers not authorized by statute,” the lawsuit contends.

The suit was filed by the Texas Hemp Business Council, the Hemp Industry and Farmers of America, and eight Texas-based hemp companies.

State to launch statewide food permit July 1 The Department of State Health Services will begin offering statewide operating permits for food trucks in Texas beginning July 1, the Austin American- Statesman reported.

Food truck owners currently must pay each city’s permitting fees to operate there, which discourages them from traveling to other places to sell their food.

“It’s a hassle to take time off to go and do that where we have to stop what we’re doing and lose money that day,” said Dallas food truck owner Eloisa Schessler.

Some cities opposed the new law, fearing they may lose control of how mobile food trucks operate in their jurisdictions. They will still be able to control where and when food trucks operate, but they will not be able to collect permit and inspection fees.

Texas’ job growth continues to outpace national rate Texas added 40,100 nonfarm jobs in January to reach 14,379,500 positions, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.6 percentage points, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.

“Texas employers continue to spur our state’s economic momentum, adding more than 40,000 jobs across a wide range of major industries,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “TWC remains committed to supporting Texas’ pro-growth policies and world-class talent pipeline that make Texas the best place to do business.”

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the state remained at 4.3%, which is below the national jobless rate of 4.7%.

Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com

• Steak Night, 6 p.m., 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796 4849. Bring your own steak and grill it cowboy-style.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Evening of outdoor fun with rides and treats.

THURSDAY, APRIL 16 • Bandera Middle School Talent Show, 6 p.m., Bandera Middle School. Students showcase music, performances and creative acts.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17 • Just Us, 6:30–9:30 p.m., Wild West Bar & Grill at Flying L Ranch, 830-796-7746. Live music in a relaxed Hill Country setting.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 • Monthly Shooting Matches, Bandera Gun Club, 210-287-3785. Competitive shooting events open to all skill levels.

• Bandera Bunny Run/Walk, 8:30 a.m., Village of Hope Events Center.

Family-friendly spring run and walk event.

• 3rd Saturday Market, 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Sheepwalk Ranch. Shop local goods, artisan crafts and farm products.

• Earth Day Watershed Workshop, 9–11 a.m., River Oaks Courts, 830-246-2220. Learn about water conservation and stewardship.

• Cowboys on Main,

10 a.m. and noon, Western Trail Heritage Park. Free Old West reenactments.

• Bandera Gunfighters, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Rattlesnake Ridge. Liveaction Western shootouts.

• Keyhole Garden Demo, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Lakehills Area Library, 830-510-2777. Hands-on lesson in waterwise gardening.

• Drive a Tank Raffle, 6 p.m., Frontier Times Museum, 830-796-3864. Enter to win a unique armored vehicle experience.

• Wade Lowrie & Gary Cornell, 6:30 p.m., First National Ice Haus, 646-734 9754. Live music downtown.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19

• Bandera Music Festival, 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796-4849. All-day live music benefiting a local scholarship fund.

• Sunday Horseback Ride and Chuckwagon Breakfast, 9–11 a.m., Major Hope Corral, 830-328-2203.

Guided ride with breakfast and ranch activities.

• Plant and Paint Party, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Art Sea Paint & More, 210-501-4232. Creative pot painting and gardening event.

• Bunco Fundraiser, 2–5 p.m., American Legion Post 157, 830-796-7528. Games benefiting the Cancer Fund.

MONADAY, APRIL 20 • Monday Night Potluck, 5 p.m., Paniolo Winery. Community dinner with themed dishes and local wine.

TUESDAY, APRIL 21

• Wagon Rides, Campfires and S’mores, 6:30 p.m., Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745.