Articles - News - Bandera Bulletin

Pageant winners receive scholarship awards

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:53:00 -0500

The Bandera County Chamber of Commerce recognized its 2025 pageant winners with scholarship awards during a ceremony at Monte Alteza Tapas & Wine Garden.

Pageant Director Jennifer D'Spain presented awards to the titleholders. Miss Bandera County Queen Gabriela Cabrera received a $1,500 scholarship, Miss Bandera County Teen Srey Ayers received $300, Miss Bandera County Junior Teen Catalina Rose received $150 and Miss Bandera County Queen First Runner-Up Bailey Barth received $400.

D'Spain credited the community and local business leaders who have helped the program grow, including Bandera County Chamber of Commerce President Michele Kosmalski.

"She has been overly tolerant of me this year to make this all happen, and I appreciate you so much," D'Spain said.

The ceremony was held at Monte Alteza, a business owned by Cabrera's parents, and featured a silent auction to raise funds for the third annual Bandera County Pageant, scheduled to begin in October. Donated items included a painting by local artist Melissa Sutherland, wine memberships from Monte Alteza and contributions from numerous local businesses.

For D'Spain, the pageant represents something larger than crowns and competition.

"I saw that down Main Street, 80% of businesses are owned by women," D'Spain said. "We are the leaders and mentors for these young women that we are working with. We are building up these ladies to the potential that they have, even in their own small town. What they can do and the impact they can make on their community is tremendous."

She said those women-owned businesses and community leaders inspired her when she first moved to Bandera.

"And I saw that when I moved to Bandera, and it was very inspiring," she said.

One of the evening's most heartfelt moments came when D'Spain addressed Cabrera directly.

Earlier this month, Cabrera shared her experience living with autism in an interview with The Bulletin. D'Spain praised the growth she witnessed during Cabrera's time in the program.

"The growth that I have seen, Gabriela, I just want to share has been amazing," D'Spain said. "If any of you have dined here at Monte Alteza, she wasn't waiting tables, and now she is. She is open and loving and talking with the community and sharing her gifts with so many people, and I am absolutely so proud of you."

D'Spain also announced a new partnership between the Bandera County Pageant and the Bandera County Fair for this year's competition.

"If you're interested, applications are available," she told attendees.

The scholarship program and pageant are supported through donations and sponsorships from local businesses, including Hyo Silver, Bandera Electric Cooperative, 11th Street Cowboy Bar, H-E-B, Lowe's, Walmart, B-Daddy's BBQ, Hicks Ranch, Buddy's Water, Well & Septic, Water Boys of Medina, The Mayan Ranch, Sovereignty Ranch, Bandera Brewery and other community partners.

Applications for the October pageant are available online at banderacountypageant.com.

EMS crash on Texas 16 remains under review

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:34:00 -0500

The collision involving a Bandera County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) vehicle and a passenger vehicle on Thursday, July 23, remains under review, according to county officials.

The accident occurred at approximately 8:10 p.m. on State Highway 16 near the Shell station in Pipe Creek. Authorities reported that an unidentified female driver collided with the EMS vehicle, causing the airbags in her vehicle to deploy.

EMS personnel treated the driver at the scene, while local law enforcement agencies temporarily blocked the area to allow crews to clear debris and investigate the crash.

Officials have released few details about the incident as the review continues.

“At this time, I am not able to provide information regarding the personnel involved or comment on the incident while the matter is under review," said Bandera County EMS Chief Shannon Griffin. Our focus remains on the well-being of everyone involved and cooperating fully with the appropriate agencies.”

This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as they become available.

Hernandez out at Chamber of Commerce

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 12:02:00 -0500

The Bandera County Chamber of Commerce has parted ways with Executive Director James Hernandez.

According to Hernandez, the Chamber approved the following statement for release: “Effective July 13, 2026, James Hernandez is no longer with the Chamber as Executive Director. We appreciate the contributions James made during his tenure and wish James the best in his future endeavors.”

Hernandez told The Bulletin he has continued to make himself available to assist the chamber if needed.

“I’ve continued to make myself available to the Chamber to help with any questions and was there a few days ago helping them get some things done,” he said. “I want to see the Chamber succeed.”

Hernandez also said the Chamber turned over the Round-Up Labor Day Market to the Bandera Business Association, a move Chamber President Michelle Kosmalski confirmed.

“There is no employee there at the Chamber to replace me currently, and putting together a two-day market requires a full-time employee to sign up vendors and plan everything,” Hernandez said.

The chamber did not provide additional comment on Hernandez’s departure. However, Kosmalski said, “We are revamping the Chamber, and we are relocating our office off Main Street. We are excited about the changes to come in the future.”

Medina Lake reaches highest level in years as floodwaters recede

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:24 -0500

Medina Lake reached its highest level in years Wednesday as heavy rainfall from last week's flooding continued to replenish the long-struggling reservoir.

The lake climbed to 27.9% of conservation capacity, according to Water Data for Texas.

Its mean water level rose from 998.99 feet on July 15 to 1,019.85 feet on July 22 — an increase of more than 20 feet in one week.

Conservation storage also more than doubled during that period, increasing from 32,759 acre-feet to 71,107 acre-feet.

The dramatic rise comes after Medina Lake spent years at historically low levels following prolonged drought.

Mandatory evacuation orders in the City of Bandera were lifted Friday, July 17, allowing residents to return to local RV parks after floodwaters along the Medina River began to recede.

Recreationalists took to the Medina Lake last week following its rise to levels not seen in years. As of Wednesday, the lake is sitting at 27.9 percent capacity. BULLETIN PHOTO/ Veronica Rector

Bandera County Emergency Management Coordinator Judy Lefevers said the county was fortunate to avoid the loss of life experienced elsewhere in the Texas Hill Country.

'We are very blessed,' Lefevers said.

The Medina River at the Texas 173 South gauge crested at 15.86 feet Thursday evening before steadily falling as floodwaters moved downstream.

Although conditions have improved, Bandera County Emergency Management is asking residents and property owners who sustained damage during the July 12 flooding and severe weather to complete a damage report through the Texas Division of Emergency Management's Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool, or iSTAT.

'This is vital to our response efforts, understanding the scope of need, and possible recovery funding in our area,' the agency said in a statement.

Damage reports can be submitted online at damage. tdem.texas.gov.

Residents recover as oodwaters recede across Bandera County

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:23 -0500

Although no fatalities were reported in Bandera County during the recent flooding, many residents are still coping with the aftermath as county officials assess damages and complete emergency repairs.

According to county officials, approximately $300,000 in emergency repairs have already been completed in the Pipe Creek area alone, with permanent repair costs expected to be significantly higher.

For Amber Klippel and her family, the flooding brought an abrupt evacuation from their home at Riverside RV Park.

The family was awakened early July 15 when deputies with the Bandera City Marshal’s Office arrived at their door and instructed them to leave immediately.

“The deputy said, ‘You need to leave now,’” Klippel recalled.

Fortunately, the family's camper was already attached to their truck, allowing them to evacuate quickly.

“But it was already underwater when we were leaving,” Klippel said. “Our campers are stuck at the high school (Bandera High School) up there.”

Like many flood victims, Klippel faced the challenge of protecting her belongings with little warning. She said a recently purchased $500 air conditioning unit was submerged under approximately six inches of water, and her truck – which has no sunroof - sustained electrical damage from the heavy rainfall.

“So many things go through your mind with anything like this,” she said.

The family later found assistance through Silver Sage, where local charity worker Art Crawford helped provide food, shelter, supplies, and accommodations for both the family and their dogs.

As the Medina River rose, Riverside RV Park flooded, prompting officials to issue evacuations to the residents. PHOTOS COURTESY AMBER KLIPPEL

While residents worked to reach safety, emergency responders and volunteers were also called upon to protect livestock threatened by rising waters.

On July 16, E.J. Dennis of Rancher Navy, a disaster response organization, helped coordinate the rescue of more than 80 horses from a ranch near Sisterdale. Rising floodwater had cut off access to the property, preventing local volunteer firefighters from reaching the site.

“The staff at the ranch were left to their own devices to try and get their horses out of the stables and barns that were in the floodplain as the water was rising,” Dennis said. “We got the horses out of the stables and barns and onto higher ground.”

Dennis said floodwater later receded enough to allow trailers onto the property.

“It was a mix of the local community, the people who own the horses, and their friends and family along with our response team,” Dennis said. “We were able to get the 80plus horses loaded up and relocated to another facility where they could continue to be monitored and cared for.”

As floodwater continues to recede, Bandera County Emergency Management Coordinator Judy Lefevers has been working with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to assess damage throughout the county.

“We had very few people report individual damage to their homes,” Lefevers said. “We’ve had four people indicate their residence was affected. Not to discount anybody’s report, but nothing significantly structural.”

Lefevers said TDEM teams identified several damaged low-water crossings in the Pipe Creek area, including one on Bear Springs Road.

“Temporary repairs have been made,” she said. “Nobody is stuck where they can’t get out of a neighborhood or anything like that.”

Overall, Lefevers said the recovery process has progressed smoothly.

“There’s been about $300,000 worth of emergency repairs completed,” she said. “The total estimate to do permanent repairs is much higher than that. This includes the temporary and emergency repairs that were completed inside the city limits as well.”

Residents who experienced flood-related damage are encouraged to participate in the state’s damage assessment process. Information and links to the Texas Division of Emergency Management damage survey are available through the Bandera County Emergency Management Facebook page: facebook.com/ banderacountyoem.

LiftFund launches flood relief program for Hill Country businesses

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:22 -0500

LiftFund has launched the 2026 Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Program to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations recover from the July flooding that affected communities across the region.

The San Antonio-based nonprofit announced the program July 17, saying many businesses were still recovering from last year's floods when the latest storms caused additional damage, business disruptions and financial setbacks.

Eligible small businesses and nonprofits may apply for grants of up to $10,000 to assist with rebuilding and repair costs, replacement of lost or damaged equipment, and general operating expenses.

To qualify, applicants must have been operating on or before July 1, 2025, be located in one of 16 eligible counties — including Bandera, Kerr, Kendall, Medina and Uvalde counties — and demonstrate they suffered a negative economic impact from the July 2026 floods.

'Our hearts are with the Texas small businesses that are facing yet another tragic disaster,' LiftFund President and CEO Amy Hereford said. 'When disasters strike, they need trusted partners who can respond in a matter of days to sustain the business and its employees.'

According to LiftFund, the organization has deployed 525 grants and loans totaling more than $17 million across the Hill Country during the past year to support businesses recovering from natural disasters.

The nonprofit has provided disaster recovery assistance for more than 30 years following hurricanes, wildfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

'Every small business that reopens strengthens its community,' Hereford said. 'When entrepreneurs can recover, employees return to work, families regain stability, and local economies begin moving forward again.'

LiftFund is also working with philanthropic organizations, corporate partners and community leaders to expand recovery resources for affected businesses and nonprofits.

Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the effort may donate through Lift-Fund, while business owners seeking assistance can learn more about eligibility and available resources by contacting the organization.

Abbott surveys flood damage, outlines recovery efforts

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:21 -0500

Gov. Greg Abbott surveyed flood-damaged communities in the Kerrville area Monday, July 20, by helicopter and said Texas is shifting its focus from emergency response to recovery and rebuilding following severe flooding that impacted much of the state.

'I want to thank all the first responders, volunteers and our fellow Texans for the swift and effective response to the floods,' Abbott said. 'We are now transitioning into the process of cleanup and rebuilding.'

Abbott said the state is working with local officials to expedite debris removal and accelerate rebuilding efforts. Approximately 490 homes have been identified as having sustained damage from the flooding.

The governor also encouraged Texans to support recovery efforts by donating through Rebuild Texas at rebuildtx.org.

During the aerial assessment, Abbott observed damage to neighborhoods, roadways, bridges and other critical infrastructure. He was joined by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and Texas Military Department Adjutant General Thomas Suelzer.

Following the flight, Abbott met with emergency management officials for updates on search and rescue operations, debris removal, infrastructure restoration and ongoing recovery efforts.

Abbott reaffirmed that the state is providing personnel, aircraft, boats, high-water vehicles and other resources to support local communities and affected families.

The governor also urged residents in impacted areas to continue monitoring local weather forecasts, avoid flooded roadways and follow guidance from state and local officials.

Abbott was joined at a news conference by Kidd, Suelzer, Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly, local emergency management officials and other state and local leaders involved in the response.

Texans can find flood recovery resources and preparedness information at disaster.texas.gov and TexasReady. gov. Current road conditions are available at DriveTexas.org.

Faith and Freedom Club welcomes Junker, Burgess

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:20 -0500

The Faith and Freedom Club of Medina met Monday, July 13, at the Rodney Camp Pavilion to hear presentations from County Judge-elect Susan Junker and meteorologist Cary 'Dr. Doppler' Burgess.

Junker reflected on what she described as the 'amazing journey' of the United States over its 250year history.

She spoke about the responsibility of every citizen to support and serve the country, saying that commitment is the foundation of a thriving nation.

A retired Army colonel, Junker served nearly 25 years on active duty and has also served as commander of the Bandera American Legion Post.

During the meeting, Junker presented a U.S. flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and a certificate of recognition to Medina residents Neal Keiser and Larry Kirk in honor of their military service.

Keiser shared how he became involved in military service and discussed the locations where he was stationed.

Raised in a rural community, he later moved to Medina after being stationed in San Antonio.

He worked in computer processing for the military and also served as a deacon at Medina First Baptist Church for 40 years.

Kirk was unable to attend after experiencing a medical emergency that morning.

Burgess, known throughout the Hill Country as 'Dr. Doppler,' concluded the program.

A native of Fredericksburg and Kerrville, Burgess said he knew from a young age that he wanted to become a meteorologist.

A self-described 'weather nerd,' Burgess has worked as a radio and television meteorologist and journalist for stations in Austin, the Hill Country, Oklahoma and South Carolina.

He also shared the story of surviving a carjacking and kidnapping while working in South Carolina, describing the experience as life-changing.

Burgess said the ordeal had a profound impact on his Christian faith.

Burgess began his career as a storm chaser before advancing to on-air meteorologist. He currently covers weather in the Hill Country and reports through Channel 7 in Austin.

His presentation prompted numerous questions from those in attendance.

The Faith and Freedom Club of Medina meets on the second Monday of each month at the Rodney Camp Pavilion. Refreshments are served at 3 p.m., followed by the program at 4 p.m.

Previous speakers have included local authors, historians and notable Medina residents.

For more information, follow the Medina Community Facebook group, where Vickie Shroyer posts updates about the club.

Bandera County Judge-elect Susan Junker, left, and meteorologist Cary 'Dr. Doppler' Burgess pose following the Faith and Freedom Club of Medina meeting July 13 at the Rodney Camp Pavilion. BULLETIN PHOTO/ Tracy Thayer

COMMUNITY IN ACTION

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:19 -0500

Art Crawford serves dinner to residents staying at Silver Sage Community Center after the facility opened as Bandera County's emergency shelter during this week's flooding. The shelter provided meals, cots and a safe place to stay for families displaced by rising floodwaters, including evacuees from Pioneer RV Park and other flood-prone areas. BULLETIN PHOTO/ Veronica Rector

CORRECTION

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:15 -0500

A caption error on last week’s front page mistakenly identified the mayor as Rebeca Gibson. The Bulletin apologizes for the error. The online edition reflects the correct information.

Pearl Harbor sailor who enlisted in Texas to be laid to rest after 84 years

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:14 -0500

Fireman 1st Class Joseph Conner to receive full military honors Aug. 1 following DNA identication

Editor’s Note: This story first appeared online in last week’s e-edition. Subscribers to the Bulletin get an additional page of coverage that didn’t make it to print. Subscribe today at BanderaBulletin.com!

A World War II sailor who enlisted in Houston before losing his life during the attack on Pearl Harbor will be laid to rest with full military honors nearly 84 years after his death.

Fireman 1st Class Joseph Ucline Conner enlisted in the U.S. Navy in Houston on Nov. 8, 1939. Less than two years later, he was among the 58 crew members killed aboard the USS Utah during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. After decades of being listed among the unidentified dead, advances in forensic science have allowed his remains to be identified.

Conner will be buried with full military honors Aug. 1 at Prien Memorial Park, 2220 Country Club Road, in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at approximately noon.

Born June 30, 1915, in Lake Charles, Conner grew up in nearby Cameron, Louisiana. After enlisting in Houston, he completed recruit training at Naval Training Station San Diego before reporting aboard the USS Utah in January 1940. He advanced to the rank of Fireman 1st Class, serving in the ship's engineering department until his death.

Originally commissioned as a battleship in 1911, the USS Utah had been converted into a target and anti-aircraft training ship by the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Moored west of Ford Island on the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, the ship was struck by two torpedoes within minutes of the attack and quickly rolled onto its side. Despite rescue efforts by fellow sailors, 58 members of the crew were killed.

For his service, Conner was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, Asiatic- Pacific Campaign Medal with Bronze Star and the World War II Victory Medal.

Following the war, many of the unidentified USS Utah sailors were buried as unknowns at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. In 2022, the Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency exhumed those remains as part of an effort to identify the missing crew members using modern forensic technology, including DNA analysis and dental and anthropological records. Conner's remains were among those positively identified.

The burial comes as the U.S. Navy commemorates its 250th anniversary, marking more than two centuries of service in defense of the nation.

Fireman 1st Class Joseph Conner

Sheriff’s Arrests

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:13 -0500

Editor’s note – Readers are reminded that an arrest is not an indication of guilt. People are presumed innocent after an arrest until convicted.

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.

William Lee Fogle, 42, of Bandera was arrested on July 19 on multiple felony warrants from another agency.

Brandon Schane Hancock, 45, of Bandera was arrested on July 20 on a warrant for driving while a license was invalid.

Luke Edward Wilhelm, 47, of Haltom City was arrested on July 20 for possession of a controlled substance (PG 1 < 1G in a Drug-Free Zone) and criminal trespass.

Marjorie Mishael Parks, 34, of Bandera was arrested on July 20 for manufacture/ delivery of a controlled substance (PG 1 >= 4G < 200G), manufacture/ delivery of a controlled substance (PG 3/4 < 28G), and intentional/knowing/ reckless/criminally negligent abandonment or endangerment of a child.

Community Foundation launches flood relief fund to aid Hill Country recovery

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:12 -0500

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has launched a relief fund to help communities including those in Bandera and Kendall counties recover from this week’s catastrophic flood.

The fund is geared to support both immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts, officials said.

According to the foundation, the Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Fund will provide grants to nonprofit organizations and civic partners offering emergency assistance, essential services and extended recovery for residents affected by the July 2026 floods across the organization's 10-county service area.

Community Foundation CEO Austin Dickson announced the fund during a virtual news conference Friday, saying recovery efforts will continue long after floodwaters recede.

'Our hearts break that the Texas Hill Country is once again facing catastrophic flooding,' Dickson said. 'Just one year after the devastating July 2025 floods, many of our neighbors are again in harm's way.'

Dickson said the foundation has spent the past year working with nonprofits on disaster recovery following the July Fourth holiday 2025 deluge — which claimed 139 lives and caused billions of dollars in damage — and expects similar efforts will be needed after this week's storms.

Those torrential rains pummeled the Hill Country and saw area waterways including the Guadalupe River and Cibolo Creek swell to record levels, leading to evacuations, high-water rescues and damage to infrastructure.

'One of the things we've learned in the past year in recovery is not about repairing what was lost, but rebuilding what comes next,' Dickson said. 'Recovery is a group project. The best of humanity comes out when communities are healing and repairing.'

According to foundation officials, the relief fund will initially support organizations providing shelter, food, water and cleanup assistance before shifting toward more extensive recovery projects, including rebuilding homes and small businesses.

Officials said the fund is separate from the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund established following the disaster last year.

Meanwhile, state officials reported at least two flood-related deaths elsewhere in South Central Texas this week.

Bandera County Emergency Management Coordinator Judy Lefevers said Friday that no fatalities had been reported in Bandera County, and officials have said the same for Kendall County.

Foundation officials said individuals, businesses and organizations can contribute to the Texas Hill Country Flood Relief Fund to support the rebuilding effort.

According to its website, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country was founded in 1981 and works with donors to offer grants to nonprofit organizations and award scholarships across a 10-county region that includes Bandera, Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Mason, Real and Uvalde counties.

The foundation manages more than $100 million in charitable assets and focuses on supporting community needs across the Hill Country.

More information about the foundation and how to donate is available at communityfoundation. net.

Flood recovery hotlines available for Texas farmers, ranchers after agricultural emergency declared

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:10 -0500

Texas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses affected by recent catastrophic flooding have access to disaster recovery assistance through several Texas Department of Agriculture programs after Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller declared an agricultural emergency for dozens of counties, including Bandera County.

The department is encouraging affected producers to apply for disaster assistance through the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund, which provides grants to eligible farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses to repair or replace agricultural infrastructure damaged by natural disasters.

The Texas Department of Agriculture also is making the following resources available: STAR Fund: Producers can apply for disaster assistance by calling 833380-8282.

Hay and Feed Hotline: Livestock producers needing hay or feed, or those wishing to donate, can call 877-429-1998.

AgriStress Helpline: Farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers seeking free, confidential, 24-hour mental health support can call or text 833-897-2474.

Miller said the agricultural emergency declaration was issued in response to catastrophic flooding across Central and South Texas that has damaged crops, pastureland, fences, roads, bridges and other agricultural infrastructure while threatening livestock operations.

'Texas agriculture is taking another heavy blow,' Miller said in a statement. 'Families who make their living on the land are watching their crops, livestock, and homes threatened by rising floodwaters. The Texas Department of Agriculture will always stand with our Texas farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. We'll do everything we can to help them recover.'

According to the department, major flooding continues along several river systems, including the Nueces River southeast of Uvalde, where floodwaters have inundated cropland, pastureland and agricultural infrastructure.

'The floodwaters will recede, but for now I'm asking producers to stay safe and follow the guidance of local emergency officials,' Miller said. 'No crop or piece of equipment is worth risking your life.'

The agricultural emergency declaration includes Bandera County along with more than 50 other counties affected by severe weather and flooding. The Texas Department of Agriculture said additional counties may be added as conditions warrant as recovery efforts continue.

EDC meeting canceled due to lack of quorum

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:08 -0500

The Bandera Economic Development Corporation's regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday was canceled due to a lack of quorum, leaving several funding requests and other business pending as the board works with one vacant seat.

The cancellation comes weeks after board member Eric Cothran resigned effective July 1, citing an inability to keep up with an increasingly demanding meeting schedule.

In his resignation letter, Cothran said he accepted his appointment when meetings were consistently held on the third Tuesday of each month, but said the schedule later expanded to include additional meetings, workshops and frequent changes.

'I do not believe it is fair to the board or to the citizens of Bandera for me to continue occupying a seat when I am unable to reliably attend and participate,' Cothran wrote. 'The work of the EDC is important, and the board deserves members who can be present, engaged, and available to contribute on a consistent basis.'

Cothran said stepping down would allow the City Council to appoint someone whose schedule better accommodates the board's current meeting demands.

The resignation leaves the seven-member board with six members: President Kim McAleb, Vice President Diana Walters, Secretary Andrea Jankoski, Treasurer Nancy DeFoster, and board members Patricia McMullan and Gay Guilott.

In the wake of the resignation, the City of Bandera issued a public call for applicants to fill the vacancy.

The city said the EDC consists of seven directors appointed by the City Council to two-year terms. The corporation is responsible for promoting economic development and advising the council on incentives related to commercial and industrial development.

Before the meeting was canceled, the agenda included several items. Board members were scheduled to consider promotional funding requests of $5,000 for the Arthur Nagel Community Clinic's annual Cork & Fork fundraiser and $12,900 for the Bandera Chamber of Commerce to support the Bandera Gunfighters.

The board was also expected to discuss selecting legal counsel for the EDC, investment options for EDC funds, and whether to help fund the city's $598,400 obligation for the Texas Department of Transportation sidewalk improvement grant.

Additional agenda items included preparing two EDC-owned properties for sale by authorizing a survey and flood elevation study for the Hackberry and Second Street property and pursuing commercial rezoning for the Maple and 10th Street property.

A budget workshop was also scheduled.

No new meeting date had been announced as of press time.

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:07 -0500

Bandera residents Megan Wise, left, and Casey Miller, owners of the Twisted Texican food truck, pose with meals prepared for delivery to the Riverside Nature Center in Kerrville, where volunteers and first responders assisting with flood recovery received food through a partnership with World Central Kitchen. The team delivered about 100 meals, while another World Central Kitchen crew distributed meals directly to flood-affected residents in their homes. The Twisted Texican's upcoming locations are posted on its social media pages. COURTESY PHOTO

UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:05 -0500

SATURDAY, JULY 25

• Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Enjoy wagon rides, campfires, s'mores and all-day putt-putt golf for the whole family.

• Bandera Gunfighters, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Rattlesnake Ridge. Live Western shootout reenactments featuring period costumes, cowboy storytelling and family-friendly entertainment.

• Cowboys on Main, 10 a.m. and noon, Western Trail Heritage Park. Free Old West demonstrations celebrating Bandera's cowboy heritage.

• Hotter Than Hell BBQ Cookoff, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Lake Medina RV Resort, 830-751-2640. Barbecue competition featuring wild game, margaritas, live entertainment and camping.

• National Day of the American Cowboy, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Bandera City Park. Celebrate cowboy heritage with gunfight reenactments, trick ropers, live music, arts and crafts vendors, family activities and free cowboy biscuits and gravy beginning at 10:30 a.m. Admission is $10 for adults; children 12 and younger are free.

• Happy Hour, 4-6 p.m., River Oaks Courts Art House Gallery & Cafe, 830-246 2222. Discounted drinks and appetizers.

• Riding on Faith Family Rodeo Weekend, 6 p.m., Mansfield Park. Two-night rodeo featuring trick riding, barrel racing, bull riding and performances by Cheridyn Bateman and Jesse Bateman.

• Live Music, 6:30 p.m., First National Ice Haus, 646-734-9754. Live music in downtown Bandera.

• Live Music, 7-10 p.m., Eagles Nest, 830-850-0944. Live local music.

• Live Music, 7-10 p.m., Drunken Buck, 210-608-8060. Live music.

• Live Music, 9 p.m., 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796-4849. Live music as part of the venue's July concert lineup.

SUNDAY, JULY 26

• Sunday Horseback Ride & Chuckwagon Cowboy Breakfast, 9-11 a.m., Major Hope Corral, 830-328-2203. Guided horseback ride with an authentic cowboy breakfast. Reservations required.

• Sunday Funday, noon.

• Fourth Sunday Cowboy Jamboree, 1-4 p.m., Frontier Times Museum, 830-796-3864. Western music, fiddle performances and cowboy entertainment.

• Live Music, 1 p.m., First National Ice Haus, 646-734-9754. Live music in downtown Bandera.

MONDAY, JULY 27

• Bandera County Fair Community Meeting, 6 p.m., Bandera American Legion Post 157, 830-796 7528. Community members are invited to help plan the 2026 Bandera County Fair.

• Open Mic, 6-9 p.m., Kickback Korner, 830-796 4496. Weekly open mic hosted by Randy Smith and Willie.

TUESDAY, JULY 28

• Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Family-friendly outdoor activities.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29 • Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Wagon rides, campfires, s'mores and putt-putt golf.

• Steak Night, 6 p.m., 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796-4849. Bring your favorite cut of meat and grill it yourself.

THURSDAY, JULY 30

• Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Family activities and outdoor fun.

• Happy Hour, 4-6 p.m., River Oaks Courts Art House Gallery & Cafe, 830-246 2222. Discounted drinks and appetizers.

FRIDAY, JULY 31

• Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Family-friendly outdoor activities.

• Happy Hour, 4-6 p.m., River Oaks Courts Art House Gallery & Cafe, 830-246 2222. Discounted drinks and appetizers.

• UNO Game Night, 4 p.m., First National Ice Haus, 646-734-9754.

• Riding on Faith Rodeo, 6 p.m., Mansfield Park Rodeo Arena. Final event of the summer rodeo series.

• Bingo, 7-10 p.m., Pipe Creek Volunteer Fire Department, 830-535-4511. Cash prizes and concessions benefiting the fire department. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live Music, 7-10 p.m., Eagles Nest, 830-850-0944.

• Live Music, 9 p.m., 11th Street Cowboy Bar, 830-796-4849. Live music as part of the July lineup.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 • Bandera Market Day, Courthouse Lawn. Monthly market featuring local vendors, artisans and handcrafted goods.

• Wagon Rides, Campfires & S'mores, Flying L Ranch Resort, 830-796-7745. Family-friendly outdoor activities.

• Cowboys on Main,

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

• Bandera Gunfighters, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Rattlesnake Ridge. Live Western shootout reenactments.

• Live Music, 2 p.m., Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar Saloon, 830-796-8826. Live music kicks off the venue's August lineup.

• Live Music, 7-10 p.m., Eagles Nest, 830-850-0944.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2

• Sunday Horseback Ride & Chuckwagon Cowboy Breakfast, 9-11 a.m., Major Hope Corral, 830-328-2203. Guided horseback ride and cowboy breakfast. Reservations required.

• Live Music, 3 p.m., Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar Saloon, 830-796-8826. Live music continues as part of the August lineup.

K'STAR to host annual Big Ta-Do fundraiser Sept. 12

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:04 -0500

K'STAR will host its annual Big Ta-Do Chili Cook-Off, Car and Bike Show on Saturday, Sept. 12, to raise money for its Emergency Children's Shelter in Kerrville.

The fundraiser will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Hwy. 27 in Kerrville. The event will feature a chili cookoff, classic cars and motorcycles, live music, vendors, raffles and family activities. Children 12 and younger will be admitted free, while admission for adults is $5.

According to K'STAR, the goal is to raise $70,000 to replace the roof of its Emergency Children's Shelter, which provides a safe home for children in crisis. The organization said replacing the roof is essential to maintaining a secure environment for the children it serves.

'This year, our goal is to raise $70,000 to help replace the roof of our Emergency Children's Shelter,' the organization said in its event materials. 'With your support, we can continue providing a place where healing begins and ensure every child who walks through our doors has a safe place to call home.'

K'STAR expects more than 500 people to attend the event, which also includes a silent auction and opportunities for businesses and individuals to support the fundraiser through sponsorships, vendor booths, raffle donations and monetary contributions.

K'STAR is a nonprofit organization that operates an emergency children's shelter, family counseling center, Halo's Kloset and family support services for children and families throughout the Texas Hill Country.

For more information, to register or donate, visit kstar.org or contact Sergio Mennella at 830-928-2036 or sergio.mennella@kstar. org.

Texas A&M Forest Service commissions new investigator

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:02 -0500

Texas A&M Forest Service commissions new investigator

Texas A&M Forest Service commissioned Tyler Sanders as its newest law enforcement investigator during a swearing-in ceremony Thursday at agency headquarters in College Station.

Sanders joined Texas A&M Forest Service in 2022 as a resource specialist, first serving in Commerce before transferring to Mineral Wells. He was selected for the agency's Law Enforcement Department in November 2025 and became a licensed Texas peace officer after graduating from the Weatherford College Law Enforcement Academy in June.

He will be stationed in Amarillo, where he will serve the Texas Panhandle as the region's newest law enforcement investigator.

'Investigator Sanders fills a critical law enforcement role in the Texas Panhandle,' Chief Law Enforcement Officer Connor Murnane said. 'In an area prone to wildfires, the Law Enforcement Department works with local cooperators, stakeholders and landowners in the Panhandle to identify the origin and cause of these fires.'

The swearing-in ceremony formally recognized Sanders as a commissioned Texas peace officer with Texas A&M Forest Service. He took the oath of office and received his badge during the ceremony.

Over the next several months, Sanders will complete a field training program, working alongside experienced investigators before assuming full investigative responsibilities.

Sanders becomes the 13th law enforcement investigator with Texas A&M Forest Service. The department investigates the origin and cause of wildfires and enforces state laws protecting Texas' natural resources.

In 2025, investigators conducted 151 wildfire investigations and 78 timber theft investigations, recovering more than $157,000 for landowners who were victims of timber theft.

Murnane said the department also works proactively with landowners to help prevent timber theft and arson.

Local fire departments, fire marshals and law enforcement agencies may request assistance from Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement with wildfire origin and cause investigations. Suspected wildfire arson may be reported to the Texas Arson Hotline at 800-364-3470.

Tyler Sanders

Lakehills Area Library features fiber artist Anna Macnak

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 23:00:00 -0500

The Lakehills Area Library is featuring the work of fiber artist Anna Macnak throughout July.

Macnak moved from the Pacific Northwest to Texas in 2010 and now lives in Lakehills with her husband, Greg. Around the time of the move, she discovered a passion for quilting.

She describes her work as being inspired by the natural world and often recreates special places she has visited, including Funter Bay, Alaska, through fiber art. She also strives to mirror nature through her choice of fabrics and quilt designs.

One of her original quilts, One World, was designed by Macnak and quilted by Kustom Kwilts of Pipe Creek. The piece features a paper-pieced pattern of women representing every continent, symbolizing women coming together 'to care for and heal our world.'

One World received an honorable mention at the Hill Country Quilt Guild's 2025 Quilt Show.

Macnak is also a Texas Master Naturalist with the Hill Country Chapter and serves as center director for the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center in San Antonio.

The Lakehills Area Library, 7200 FM 1283, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 830-510-2777.

DPS identifies Tuesday crash victim

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:56:00 -0500

Editor's Note: This story is an update to this original piece.

The Texas Department of Public Safety has identified the motorcyclist who was killed in a crash Tuesday afternoon in Bandera County as Cole Justin Davila, 20, of San Antonio.

According to DPS, preliminary information indicates a trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle traveling on State Highway 16.

"The motorcycle evaded and collided into the rear of a Lexus SUV," DPS Sgt. De Luna Jr. said in a statement. "The rider of the motorcycle, identified as Cole Justin Davila, 20, of San Antonio, was pronounced deceased on scene."

The crash occurred shortly after 2 p.m. Tuesday near the intersection of State Highway 16 South and Farm-to-Market Road 1283.

"No further information is available at this time," De Luna said.

In a post shared to the Facebook group Fallen Riders, Eddie Davila, who identified himself as Cole Davila's father, thanked the riding community for its support and asked anyone who has photos of his son to share.

"I want to thank you all for being part of this group. I'm still lost for words. My wife and I are struggling with this," he wrote. "We will let you all know once we decide what to do going forward. I ask that you be patient. If anybody has videos or pictures please upload. Thank you all again."

Motorcyclist dies in crash after fleeing DPS

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 08:21:00 -0500

A motorcyclist died Tuesday afternoon after crashing into the back of an SUV while attempting to evade a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper in Bandera County, according to officials.

The crash occurred shortly after 2 p.m. July 21 near the intersection of Texas 16 South and FM 1283.

DPS said a trooper tried to initiate a traffic stop on the motorcycle along 16.

Instead of stopping, the rider fled and later struck the rear of a Lexus SUV.

The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have not released the rider’s identity.

The crash remains under investigation.

This is a developing story.

Long-Awaited Budget Workshop Ends Abruptly

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 16:11:00 -0500

The Bandera City Council's long-awaited budget workshop for the 2026–27 fiscal year was canceled Wednesday after the council lost the quorum required to conduct business.

Council Member Lynn Palmer did not attend the meeting. As of publication, she had not responded to The Bulletin's request for comment regarding her absence.

Council Members Deanna McCabe, Tammy Morrow and Debbie Breen, who had repeatedly called for the workshop in the interest of what they described as greater financial transparency, were in the middle of reviewing the budget before the meeting was canceled. The workshop ended after Council Member Jeff Flowers left early.

According to City Administrator Toni Kunz, special meetings require a super quorum of four council members. With Palmer absent and Flowers departing, only three council members remained, forcing the workshop to be canceled.

In a statement to The Bulletin, Flowers said his departure was due to an unexpected personal matter.

"I did have to leave the workshop early due to an urgent and pressing personal matter that required my immediate attention," Flowers said. "I felt confident that the preliminary review of the budget was in capable hands with the remaining members, and my departure was strictly due to unavoidable scheduling constraints."

It is uncertain when the budget workshop will be rescheduled to.

The canceled special meeting agenda and the 2026–27 budget packet are available for download here.

Residents recover as floodwaters recede across Bandera County

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:17:00 -0500