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Bandera County Courier is published weekly by Gail S. Joiner, 1210 Hackberry St., Bandera, TX 78003. Subscription price $26 per year in Bandera County, TX; $36 per year for other Texas counties; $40 per year out of Texas. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Bandera County Courier, P.O. Box 1704, Bandera, TX 78003. Periodicals Postage pending in Bandera, Texas.

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Seniors articles from 2005 archived in the on-line Courier:

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Dec. 22, 2005 Column Dec. 8, 2006 Column (The 12/8 column was run again in the 12/15 issue) Dec. 1, 2005 Column Nov. 24, 2005 Column Nov. 17, 2005 Column Nov. 10, 2005 Column Nov. 3, 2005 Column Oct. 27, 2005 Column Oct. 20, 2005 Column Oct. 13, 2005 Column Oct. 6, 2005 Column Sept. 29, 2005 Column Sept. 22, 2005 Column Aug. 25, 2005 Column Aug. 4, 2005 Column
Melodiers perform	Published Sept. 15, 2005
Retirees building for retirees	Published Aug. 4, 2005
Jellystone sale sour deal for Inky	Published July 28, 2005
Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	July 28, 2005 Column July 21, 2005 Column July 14, 2005 Column July 7, 2005 Column June 30, 2005 Column June 23, 2005 Column June 16, 2005 Column May 19, 2005 Column May 12, 2005 Column
Silver Sage Melodiers plan future performances	Published May 5, 2005
Current Seniors articles
Seniors articles published in 2007	Seniors articles published in 2006

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Dec. 22, 2005    The holiday season is a time of giving, sharing and caring and the Silver Sage Corral is hoping that someone out there who can assistance with the following: 1. we are in need of a dryer; 2. we need some donated time for construction to our kitchen facility. If you can help with either of these, please contact Laura at 796-4969.     HOLIDAY CLOSURES:     The Silver Sage Corral will close at noon on Friday, December 23rd and will be closed all day Monday, December 26th, 2005, Friday, December 30th and Monday, January 2nd, 2006. Following are the holiday schedule changes: 1. Tapestry Classes will be cancelled during the holidays. They will resume Wednesday, January 11, 2006. 2. Oil Painting; no classes on Monday December 26th or January 2nd. Classes will resume on January 9, 2006. 3. The Melodiers will not practice during the holidays. 4. Exercise classes are cancelled on Monday, December 26th, Friday, December 30th and Monday, January 2. Yoga classes will continue as usual.     Our monthly birthday potluck luncheon will be Tuesday, December 27th at 11:00 am. Please note that we will be starting early. We will be having a New Years Eve Party with finger foods. Betty Schultz will be playing music and the ball will drop at 12:00. Hats and horns will be provided. If you need suggestions on what to bring, call Lisa at 796-4969 or stop by and see her at 803 Buck Creek. She has some great easy recipes for finger foods.     The Silver Sage Thrift Shop will be closed December 23rd, 24th, 30th and 31st. We have recently received many donated items. We have furniture, clothes, knickknacks, records, etc.     Also, we have an antique cash register from the old Hatfield General Store. Come by and make an offer. We are located in the strip mall on Highway 16 South. We would like to sincerely thank Barbara Bartkoviak and family for their generous donations.     Get well wishes for a speedy recovery go out the Bill Recker.     Our sincere condolences go to the Kirkpatrick family on the loss of their loved one.     Happy Birthday wishes and many more to Larry Maris, Gwen McCullough, David Sharrock, Vester Potter, Janet Allen, Lee Morgan, Judith Bronson, Karen Hein, Gloria Greenlee, Irving Marbach and Richard Allen.     I would like to personally wish each and every one of you a fun, safe and happy holiday season!

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Dec. 8, 2005    BUYERS BEWARE! If you have recently attended a home fire safety presentation by MasterGuard and invited the presenter to come to your home, beware. The salesman has a high pressure approach. The items may be top of the line, but that doesn’t mean they are any more effective. The Silver Sage Corral does not endorse MasterGuard or any of its products, nor does the Bandera County Fire Marshal, the city fire department and the county fire departments.     Dining and dancing will be enjoyed by all who attend the Winter Formal sponsored by G.A.L.S. When: Dec. 17, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Where: Silver Sage Corral. Advance tickets can be purchased at the Corral for $15 per person or $25 per couple. Tickets at the door will cost $20 per person. Admission includes dancing, food, a complimentary raffle ticket and a picture to remember it all. Ticket sale proceeds will go to help support the Silver Sage Corral.     Ann Fonfa was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. Using informative information and alternative medication, she cured the cancer. In 1997, Ann founded The Annie Appleseed Project to inform, educate, advocate and raise awareness around Complementary/Alternative Medication (CAM) and other issues, and to provide a voice for patients to their providers. Ann seeks to bridge the gap between these groups around CAM. Ann gives talks to many groups around the country. She loves to tell people about the many ways to use "Natural Strategies to Reduce Risk." Ann Fonfa will be speaking at the Silver Sage Corral on December 8 at 1 p.m.     T’was the Night Before Christmas…On Dec. 13 at 8 a.m., Ms. Allbrittons English class will be at the Corral reading Christmas stories. Hot chocolate and coffee will be served. Don’t be a Scrooge, come and listen.     On Dec. 19 at 2 p.m., the Silver Sage Corral will host a Christmas cookie exchange. Santa Claus will be here to sample the cookies. Please sign up no later than Dec. 14 if you want to participate. The number of cookies made will depend on how many cookie bakers that sign up.     All Christmas items are now 50 percent off at the Silver Sage Emporium. The sale will be from now until Dec. 25. There are all kinds of Christmas items to choose from. This is the bargain of the year. The Emporium is located in the strip mall on SH 16 south.     Empty unwrapped boxes are still needed for the Spirit of Christmas project. You can drop them off at the Silver Sage Corral. All shapes and sizes are needed. The wrapping begins Dec. 15 at 9 a.m. Help the needy children of Bandera County have a Merry Christmas by donating boxes or wrapping the boxes. If your children or if you know of any children that need to receive gifts, call Jesse Parks at The Helping Hand at 830-796-8300.     A sincere sympathy goes out to the Della Mae Cox family. Ms. Cox was one of the first Board of Director members. She volunteered a lot of her time to the Silver Sage Corral and will be truly missed. Happy Birthday wishes and many more to Carol Nichols, Donna Ramirez, Ralph Woodhull, Barbara Maxwell, Leroy Rogers, Lenna Walker, Paul Westmeyer, Robert Roach, Angelika Inzanti, George Meador, Betty Baxter, Maggie Espinosa, Clara McWilliams and David Reichel.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Dec. 1, 2005    I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It's time to start getting in the holiday spirit. G.A.L.S, a high school gal club, is hosting a Winter Formal for all senior citizens on Dec. 17 at the Silver Sage Corral from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at the Corral for $15 per person or $25 per couple. Tickets at the door will cost $20 per person. Admission includes dancing, food, a complimentary raffle ticket and a picture to remember it all. Ticket sale proceeds will go to help support our meal programs.     Breakfast will be cooked and served at the Silver Sage Corral by the board of directors on Friday, Dec. 2 from 7 a.m until 9 a.m. If you have never been, you don't know what you are missing. You can get pancakes, biscuits and gravy or breakfast tacos with the works. You can dine in or take out. Fax your take out orders to 830-460-8545 on Thursday and it will be ready for you to pick up at 7 a.m.     On Dec. 8 at 1 p.m., Ann Fonfa will be speaking at the Silver Sage. Ann Fonfa was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer after finding a lump. She has no family history of breast cancer. Her business background has been in sales/marketing as a national, regional and local manager. She traveled extensively for business from 1970 through 1995. Ann has been a full-time advocate for people with cancer since then. She will be speaking on alternative medicine, natural therapies and patients' rights. If you are interested in any of these subjects, Ann is the person to listen to.     Mark your calendar for Dec. 13 at 8 a.m. Ms. Allbritton's English class will be at the Corral reading Christmas stories. Hot Chocolate and coffee will be served. Too bad there isn't a fire place to cozy up to.     The Silver Sage Emporium has extended the sale on all Christmas items until December 7 for 25 percent off. There are all kinds of Christmas trinkets, ornaments and much much more. Stop by and get yourself a bargain. The Emporium is located in the strip mall on SH 16 south.     Empty unwrapped boxes are needed for the Spirit of Christmas project. They need to be dropped off at the Silver Sage Corral by Dec.15. All shapes and sizes are needed. Help is needed at the Silver Sage to wrap the boxes on Dec. 15 starting at 9 a.m. The needy children of Bandera County deserve to have a wonderful Christmas. So, come and participate in this thoughtful project. If your children or if you know of any children that need to receive gifts, call Jesse Parks at The Helping Hand at 796-8300.     A sincere sympathy goes out to the Lansford family for the loss of their loved one, Mariellen Kline.     Get well wishes go out to Elaine Lilly. We all wish you a speedy recovery.     Happy birthday wishes and many more to Lola Barton, Bill Bowie, Marjorie Sullivan, Angie Walden, Herb Young, Marilyn Hazelwood, Lisa Tucker, Kay Welch, Donna Deuth, Rose Greenwalt, Ruby Harris, Linda Bachmeier, Nina Talk, Helen Williams, Dale Herndobler, Virgie McHaney, Dorothy Schultz, Irene Smith and Marjorie Weatherford.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 24, 2005    The Silver Sage Emporium now has all Christmas items on sale until Monday, November 28 for 25 percent off. The Christmas season seems to arrive faster and faster every year! If you have any small furniture or appliances that you would like to donate to the Emporium, we would like to take them off you hands. They can be dropped off at the thrift store located in the strip mall on SH 16 or dropped off at the Corral. If you need for us to pick the items up, call 830-796-4969 and make arrangements.     Empty boxes, toys and gifts for the Spirit of Christmas project need be dropped off at the Silver Sage Corral no later than December 15. All shapes and sizes are needed and the boxes need to be unwrapped. Little elves are needed to wrap the boxes on Dec. 15 starting at 9 a.m. Assisting with this project is just one small way you can help support the needy children of Bandera County. If you would like your children to receive some of the gifts or if you know any children that need to receive gifts, call Jesse Parks at The Helping Hand at 830-796-8300.     The craze is on, that is the scrap booking craze. We would like to start holding a weekly scrap book party here at the Silver Sage Corral on Thursday afternoons. If you are a scrap book maniac, we would like for you to join the crowd. To enroll in the class, call Lisa or Laura at 796-4969.     A sincere sympathy goes out to the Martinez family for the loss of their loved one, Guadalupe Martinez.     Get well wishes go out to Mary Jo Kirkpatrick. We all wish you a speedy recovery.     Happy Birthday wishes and many more to Jacky Buck, Truman Looper, Ella Sharpe, Arthur Nicholl, James Duff, Fred Mansell, Mary Raser, Kathryn Thompson, Jerry Jilek, JoAnn Marshall, Lillian Roberts, Dorothy Shelton and Maurice Center.     HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL, FROM THE STAFF AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT THE SILVER SAGE CORRAL!

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 17, 2005    The most elegant event of the year is here. Shoe Biz and The Gingerbread House will present The 2005 Gift and Fashion Show on Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Silver Sage Corral. Hors d’ oeuvres and an array of desserts will be served immediately following the show. Admission is $10 per person. You can purchase your tickets at the Silver Sage Corral, The Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. Buy your tickets early, there is limited seating availability. All ticket proceeds benefit the Silver Sage Corral.     Our birthday pot luck luncheon will be Nov. 22 at 11:30 a.m. We will be serving turkey, dressing, green beans, cranberry sauce and black olives. We need all of those who will be attending to signup on the list posted on the bulletin board so we do not have an over abundance of any item. Chris Lackey with Capital Fire and Safety will be presenting a home fire prevention program.     The Silver Sage Emporium is still in need of a volunteer to work at the store on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. We are coming into the busy season and expect to have a large quantity of customers. The thrift store is located in the strip mall on SH 16. If you are interested, please call Laura at 830-796-4969. All clothing will be on sale for 50 percent off until Nov. 21.     Save your empty boxes for the Spirit of Christmas project. The boxes need to be unwrapped. All shapes and sizes are needed. You can drop off the boxes at the Silver Sage Corral from now until further notice. This is just one little way you can help support the needy children of Bandera County. If you would like your children to receive some of the gifts or if you know any children that need to receive gifts, call 830- 796-4969 and we will let you know how to apply.     I want to thank Karen Hensley and her family for assisting our clients when they call. It seems as though our phone numbers are just one number different. Karen said it is alright to leave a message but you must leave your phone number in order for her to call you back with the correct number.     A sincere thank you goes to Donnie Otis, Louis and Jackie Kieschnick and Buddy and Marianne Sandidge for your memorial donations.     Get well wishes go out to Bill Araiza and Adeline Herbst. We wish you a speedy recovery.     Happy Birthday wishes and many more to Vona Fremland, Maxine Jank, Phyllis Boulware, Bob Caswell, Leona Dukes, Yolanda Goodloe, Dolores Matheny, Judy Rodriguez, Ed Gase, Marie Pickett, Bonnie McIlvain, Peggy Maris, Clyde Greene and Cecilia Trejo.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 10, 2005    I would like to apologize to everyone who was expecting to receive a flu shot on November 4. The Texas Department of Health ran out of the vaccine two days prior to the Health Check-up. If you still need to get the shot, call 830-796-4969 and we will put you on the list to call when the new shipment of the vaccine is received. Again, I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.     Just a friendly reminder; the Silver Sage Corral will be closed Friday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veteran's Day. If you are a meals on wheels recipient, and would like to order and extra lunch for that day, call 796-4969 by 9 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 10 and place your order.     The 2005 Gift and Fashion Show which is presented by Shoe Biz and The Gingerbread House benefiting the Silver Sage Corral will be held November 17 at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $10 per person which includes hors d'oeuvres and a decadent dessert buffet immediately following the show. Tickets can be purchased at the Silver Sage Corral, The Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. This is an elegant annual event you do not want to miss. Buy your tickets early, there is limited seating available.     Do you like yoga? Come join in the relaxation and stretching. Classes are every Monday at 10 a.m. Willie McDaniel returned on November 7th as the yoga instructor. He has been teaching yoga for many years. He'll give you a great workout.     Here comes Santa Claus, Here comes Santa Claus -- Is it that time already? The Silver Sage Emporium now has its Christmas goods for sale. Stop in and ask one of the super shopper volunteers to assist you in purchasing the perfect gift for that someone special. Also, all clothing will be on sale for 50 percent off until Nov. 21. If you are a people person, the Emporium is looking for a volunteer on Tuesdays from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. If you are interested, please call 830-796-4969.     A sincere thank you goes to Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Ryan, Jr., Jerry and Opal Word, Dorothy Darden, Cecelia Schmidtke and Carol Browne for you generous memorial donations. Get well wishes go out to Betty Schultz. Wishing you a speedy recovery.     Happy Birthday wishes to Jack Beiter, Timothy Rogers, Charlie Wilson, Kim Bankston, Eva Mae Brown, Mary Ann Jureczki, Lizette Tetzloff, Elinor Vandergriff, Darlene Watts, Rosemary Lundquist, William Roche, Alberta Ruble, Bill McCoy, Christine Grohman, Marianne Sandidge, Flora Sosebee, Jules Jennen and Robert Shaw.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 3, 2005    The Silver Sage Corral is now accepting applications for a part-time custodian/maintenance person. Duties include janitorial cleaning, light duty maintenance and lawn maintenance. Qualified applicant must be able to lift 50 pounds. Hourly rate depends on experience. Fax your resume to 830-460-8545 or stop by and complete an application.     We are an equal opportunity employer. We are also looking for a volunteer cashier for Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. If you are interested, call 830-796-4969.     Join us for the extravaganza of the year. The 2005 Gift and Fashion Show which is presented by Shoe Biz and The Gingerbread House benefiting the Silver Sage Corral will be held November 17 at 6:30 p.m.     Hors d'oeuvres and a decadent dessert buffet are included in the admission price of $10 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the Silver Sage Corral, The Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. Buy your tickets early, there is limited seating available.     The Bandera County Artists Association meets at 1 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at the Silver Sage Corral. The Association's next meeting, to be held November 21, will feature a demonstration by Dana Schoppa, an art instructor who specializes in southwestern oil painting. In addition, an art class is held at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center every Monday from 9 a.m .to noon and is conducted by Olga Bolduc, a well-known artist and a volunteering resident of Bandera. Any one interested in participating in Bolduc's art class may contact her at 830-460-4839.     A sincere thank you goes to Phil and Ruth Becker, George and Ruth Meador, Jim and Cathy Barnard, Alven and Deborah Stewart, Buddy and Marianne Sandidge and Betty Ruede for you generous memorial donations.     Our condolences go out to the Family of Maurine Ryan. She will be truly be missed by all.     Happy Birthday wishes Martin Pompa, Pete Camp, Joe Rodriguez, Carolyn Smith, Neal Dalton, Flossie Lentz and Donna Payne.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 27, 2005    Newly elected Board Members, Tom Doebbler, Ed Barnes and Linda Bachmeier were sworn into office by Judge Holt at the Oct. 21 board meeting. They are replacing Joe McMullan, Peggy Araiza and Opal Word. Buddy Sandidge was elected to fill the position of vice president. Welcome to the Corral, guys and gal.     The "Fall into Quilting" quilt show Oct. 16 was a huge success. The "Boots and Broncs" raffle quilt was won by Jody Patrick. Thank you to everyone for participating and supporting the Heritage Quilt Club and the Silver Sage Corral.     Calling all men and women 42 Domino players and alternate players. Every Thursday at 12 noon the games begin. Get here early so you can pick your table. If you are interested in joining this fun and exciting group, a sign up sheet has been placed on the bulletin board or you can call the Corral and we will list you. If you would like to join us for lunch, call 830-796-4969 by 9 a.m. and place your order. Lunch is served at 11:30.     Members of the Bandera County Artists Association participated in a portrait painting workshop conducted by art instructor Zella McLemore Oct. 3 and Oct. 17 at the Silver Sage Corral. The twoday workshop followed a portrait painting demonstration by McLemore during the Association's Sept. 19 meeting. A veteran artist with years of oil painting experience, McLemore comes to the Texas Hill Country from her hometown of Houston. Her background includes studying arts at the Museum of Fine Arts Glassell School in Houston and at the Houston Civic Arts Center. She also spent eight years fine-tuning her oil painting skills with nationally known artist Dick Turner.     The Bandera County Artists Association meets at 1 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at the Silver Sage Corral. The Association's next meeting, Nov. 21, will feature a demonstration by Dana Schoppa, an art instructor who specializes in southwestern oil painting.     Its time to jam the night away. The jam session will be Friday, Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. All musicians are welcome. The more the merrier music will flow. So, come one, come all. Bring a finger food or dessert to share. It's sure to be a jammin' good time.     There will NOT be a foot clinic in November or December. They will resume the first Thursday in January. Thank you to all of the kind and caring nurses who have put so much time and effort in taking care of our feet. Hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season.     Breakfast is ready! Come and get it! On Friday, Nov. 4 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., the board of directors will be serving their delicious breakfast. If you are dining with us, breakfast tacos are only $1.10 and pancakes with bacon or sausage or biscuits with gravy are only $2.75, both include coffee or orange juice. To-go tacos are $1.00 and to-go breakfast plates are $2.50, but do not include coffee or orange juice. To-go orders can be faxed to 830-460-8545. They can be picked up after 7 a.m.     Following the breakfast from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., we will have a mini-health fair in conjunction with the Texas Health Department and Texas Agricultural Extension Service. Flu shots will be administered at the fair. You do not need to make an appointment. The cost for the shot is $10 unless you have Medicare Part B. If you have Medicare Part B, the shot is free. But, you must bring your card with you.     The 2005 Gift and Fashion Show, presented by Shoe Biz and The Gingerbread House and benefiting the Silver Sage Corral will be held Nov. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Hors d'oeuvres and a dessert buffet is included in the admission price of $10 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the Silver Sage Corral, The Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. If you have never attended before, you must put this on your list. It's fabulous!     Our sincere condolences go out to the Schultz Family for the loss of Mary Nell Schultz. She will be truly be missed by all.     Happy Birthday wishes to John Adams, Nick Ionnarone, Kay Wilson, Dorene Williams, Mary Kirkpatrick, Liliana Lovisa, Bettie Suddath, Patty Adamson, Barbara Brischetto, Ruth Reeves, Helen Bayliss, Mike Carter, Edwina Daniel and Zelma Riley.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 20, 2005    The first annual Silver Sage Corral Golf Tournament was a great success. It was a close game, but there had to be winners. First place prize of $600 went to Johnny Cardenas, Mike Cardenas, Jesse Cardenas and Willie Pember; 2nd place of $400 was won by Kenneth Moore, Jack McGee, Mark Elder and Gary Thompson; 3rd place of $280 went to Bill Sampson, Charles Grant, Dan Montes and Bill Araiza. The closest to the pin winner was John Lynch; longest drive winner was Bill Sampson and longest putt went to Mark Elder. Way to go teams, good golf.     The Silver Sage Corral would like to thank all sponsors and all who donated prizes and auction items for the tournament. They are Alamo Cycle Plex, A Cut Above, American Title, Artisianaworks, Bandera Title Company/ Taylor & Ruhnke, PC, Bandera Tri-County Home Health Agency, Inc., Bandera Veterinary Clinic, Barrel House Feed & Hardware, Texas Rose Realty/Browning & Associates, Buddy's Water Well Service, Custom Glass & Mirror, D'Spain Sales and Service, Inc., H & R Block, Medina Lake Betterment Association, Moore Title Company, Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union, Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar, Skyline Ranch, The Cabaret Dancehall, The Farm Country Club, Wharton Ranch, Phil Wilson Insurance, G. G. MacDonald, Inc., Shoe Biz, Bandera American Legion Post #157, Carol Graves, CPA, Addie's Hair Care, Back in the Saddle, Bandera Chiropractic Center, Bandera General Store, Bandera ISD, Bandera True Value Hardware, Classics- Burgers & "Moore", Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Bandera Fitness, Country Depot Antiques, Cowboy Capital RV, Dairy Queen, Edwin Watts Golf Superstore, Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club, Fitness First, Golfland Practice Center, Guaranty Bank, Hy O Silver, Massage Works by Carolyn, McMullan Insurance, Radio Shack, Riverhill Country Club, Inc., Sassaphrazz, Sonic Drive In, Spirit Horse Gallery, Texas Country Furniture, The Pampered Chef-Desirae Cardenas, Wells Fargo, Cakes by Dan, LH7 Ranch, Flying L Ranch and the Silver Spur Guest Ranch. We know we call upon each and everyone of you frequently and we appreciate and thank you for your continued support.     Flu shots are in! On Nov. 4 from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., we will have a mini-health fair in conjunction with the Texas Health Department and Texas Agricultural Extention Service. Flu shots will be administered at the fair. The cost for the shot is $10 unless you have Medicare Part B. If you have Medicare Part B, the shot is free. But, you must bring your card with you.     Our birthday potluck luncheon will be Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 11:30 a.m. We will be serving bratwurst, sour kraut and German potato salad. Bring a side dish and join in the October festivities.     The jewelry sale at the Silver Sage Emporium has been extended until Oct. 22.     The Emporium is currently accepting donated items that are slightly used and in good condition. If you need to make arrangements for any items that need to be picked up, call 830-796-3590. The thrift store hours are Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.     If you are handicapped or have special needs, what would you do during a major evacuation or crisis? The Silver Sage Corral has special needs forms that you need to complete and we will forward them to the proper authorities in Bandera County. This enables the authorities to plan and assist you as needed. If you need a form you can pick one up at the Silver Sage Corral or call 830-796-4969 and we will mail you one.     A special thank you goes to Roger Roberts for taking the time out of his busy schedule and fixing our oven free of charge. Your kindness is greatly appreciated. Happy Birthday wishes to Melwyn Borgens, Lenna Newman, Peggy Araiza, Mary Conley, Jacob Masengale, William Matheny, John & Joyce Sellberg, Mark Rister, Stella Armstrong, Olga Bolduc and Lynne Sowerby.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 13, 2005    We are hoping to have, in conjunction with the Texas Health Department and Texas Agricultural Extension Service of Bandera County, a mini-health fair in November. Flu shots will be available at the health fair. If you would like for us to contact you as to when the health fair will be, call 830-796-4969 and we will put your name on the list.     On December 8 at 1 p.m., we will be having a guest speaker, Ann Fonfa. She will cover topics about natural strategies to reduce risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and arthritis. Referencing the many ways complementary and alternative cancer therapies can help, strategies for lifestyle and more. She will speak on the multiple benefits derived from using combinations of nutrition, dietary supplements, mind/body/spirit, detoxification and exercise. In the course of explaining the way things combine to offer a synergy, she will discuss traditional Chinese medicine, organic foods, massage, yoga, etc. She will be using evidence based information from various conferences, journals, researchers and other sources and will include personal information about her own experiences, ailments and therapies that worked. She is a cancer survivor. Plan on attending as this will be very informative for those interested in alternative medicine.     The thrift store hours are Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.     Happy Birthday wishes to Mary Nell Schultz, Kathy Teich, Dorothy Callahan, Ruth Meador, Archie Mercer, David Sollinger and Roanne Center.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 6, 2005    The Silver Sage Corral's 1st Annual Golf Tournament will be this Saturday, Oct. 8. Not many teams have registered, so for those who are playing, the chances of winning are in your favor. There is still time to register. Forms can be picked up at the Corral or the Flying L Golf Course. The 1st place team will win $600, 2nd place $400 and 3rd place $280. There will also be prizes for the longest putt, closest to the pin, longest drive and a 4- wheeler has been donated by Alamo Cycle-Plex for the hole in one prize. There will be certificate give-a-ways, a raffle and silent auction. Even if you don't play golf, come out and place your bids at the silent auction and purchase your raffle tickets. There have been many wonderful items donated for these events.     Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. is the famous free foot clinic. You get your toenails clipped, your feet washed and massaged for free. All you have to do is bring a towel. Your feet will love you for the rest of the day. There is a nurse available for diabetics. If you wish to stay and join us for lunch, call 830-796-4969 by 9 a.m. and place your order.     Hey, Grandpa! What's for supper? We're not havin' supper, we're havin' breakfast on Friday, Oct. 7 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. We've got breakfast tacos with egg, taters, cheese and bacon or sausage. Ohh, and we've got biscuits with sausage gravy or flapjacks with bacon or sausage. If yur eatin' with us ya git coffee and orange juice, too. You can git em to go if ya want. Git yur orders in by 7 a.m. by callin' 796- 4969 or faxin' it to 460- 8545. Pick 'em up at 7:30 a.m. or we kin deliver 'em after 9 a.m. Let us know when orderin'.     The Silver Sage Emporium sale of the week is 25 percent off of all glass and crystal. There are some beautiful pieces available. The Emporium is now accepting donated items that are slightly used and in good condition. They can be dropped off Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. or call 796-3590 to make arrangements for any items that need to be picked up.     The Silver Sage Corral will be closed Oct. 10 in observance of Columbus. There will be no meals on wheels deliveries. If you want an extra meal on Friday, please call 796-4969 by 9 a.m. on Friday and place your order.     The Bandera County Artists Association met at the Silver Sage Corral on Sept. 26 and Oct. 3 to attend a portrait painting demonstration by Zella McLemore. The class was completely full of interested artists. They will meet again on Oct. 10 to paint a portrait of their own.     The "Boots and Broncs" raffle quilt is now on display at The Silver Sage Corral. Tickets are $1 each or 6 tickets for $5. All ticket sale proceeds go to the Silver Sage Corral. The "Fall into Quilting" Quilt Show will be Oct. 15 and 16 at the Silver Sage Corral. There will be food and drinks available.     The 2nd Annual Bandera County Economic Development Luncheon will be held at the Silver Sage Corral on Oct. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Four speakers will address a wide range of topics that go to the heart of Bandera County's economic future. The cost is $10 which includes a rib-eye lunch. You must make reservations by Oct. 17. There is limited seating so make your reservations today by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 796-3045. This event is being sponsored by Gary Johnston, REM,GRI.     Tacos and More are now donating breakfast tacos to the Silver Sage Corral. They will be on sale daily at the Silver Sage Corral from 9 a.m to 11 a.m. The cost is 50 cents each. It will be first come, first serve. If you are interested in volunteering to assist in the sale of the tacos, call Lisa or Laura at 796-4969.     We give our condolences to Patricia Godkin on the loss of her mother, Bertha Godkin.     Happy Birthday wishes to Al Harris, Nela Capps, Patricia Pearson, Dave Cooke, Lori Desmuke, Johnette Brown, Roderick Shelton, Carol Browne, Esther Maldonado, Wright Carlisle, Cindy Harrington, Dan Lough, B. B. Vanderford, and Jody Gibbens.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Sept. 29, 2005 Charlie Stricker of Stricker Welding and Supply fixed the railings at the Corral. Photo Courtesy of Silver Sage Senior Center    Get your four-man golf team ready. Oct. 8 is the date, Flying L Golf Course is the place for the 1st Annual Golf Tournament sponsored by The Silver Sage Corral. Registration forms can be picked up at the Corral or the Flying L Golf Course.     The entry fee is $70 per player which includes green fees, cart rental and lunch buffet. Checks should be made payable to The Silver Sage Corral. The 1st place team will win $600, 2nd place $400 and 3rd place $280. There will also be prizes for the longest putt, closest to the pin, longest drive and a 4-wheeler has been donated by Alamo Cycle-Plex for the hole in one prize. There will be certificate give-a-ways, a raffle and silent auction.     Shoppers can get 25 percent off all clothing, including the new western wear, hats and boots at The Silver Sage Emporium. Sale runs out on Sept. 30. There are lots of women, children and men's clothing. The Emporium accepts donated items that are slightly used and in good condition. The hours are Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call 830-796- 3590 to make arrangements for any items that need to be picked up.     Our famous free foot clinic will be held Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Bring your towel and get your toe nails clipped and you feet washed and massaged. There is a nurse available for diabetics. If you wish to stay and join us for lunch, call 830-796-4969 9 a.m. and place your order.     On Oct. 7, the board of directors will be serving their delicious breakfast from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Dine in for only $2.75 and you have a choice of biscuits and gravy or pancakes with bacon or sausage. The breakfast tacos with egg, potato, cheese and bacon or sausage are $1.10. Coffee and orange juice are included.     Orders to go are also available, but they do not include the coffee nor orange juice. To go breakfast plates are $2.50 and breakfast tacos are $1. Fax your to go orders to 460-8545 or call 796-4969 by 7 a.m. They can be picked up at 7:30 am or delivered after 9 a.m. Please specify when ordering.     The Silver Sage Corral will be closed Oct.10 in observance of Columbus Day. There will be no meals on wheels deliveries. If you want an extra meal on Friday, please call 796-4969 by 9 a.m. on Friday and place your order.     The "Fall into Quilting" Quilt Show is fast approaching. It will be Oct. 15 and 16 at the Silver Sage Corral. If you haven't purchased you raffle tickets for the "Boots & Broncs" quilt, stop by today. Tickets are $1 each or six tickets for $5. All ticket sale proceeds go to the Silver Sage Corral to help support our various activities and our meals on wheels program.     The 2nd Annual Bandera County Development Luncheon will be held at the Silver Sage Corral on Oct. 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be four speakers that will address a wide range of topics that go to the heart of Bandera County's economic future. The cost is $10 which includes a rib-eye lunch. You must make reservation by Oct. 17. There is limited seating so make you reservations today by call the Chamber of Commerce at 796-3045. This event is being sponsored by Gary Johnston, REM, GRI.     Our good friend Charlie Stricker of Stricker Welding and Supply comes through again. He volunteered his time and materials to fix the railings on our back steps. He also loaned us his laminating machine. The Silver Sage Corral thanks him for his kindness. We give our condolences to Linda Bachmeier on the loss of her father and to Judge Richard Evans on the loss of his mother.     Get well wishes continue to go out to Adeline Herbst and Martina McNamana. Ladies, you need to hurry back, we all miss you.     Happy Birthday wishes to Juanita Baker, Lupe Cruz, Alice Hubbard, Leonard O'Hara, Marjorie Mayer, Dorothy Monk, Diane Shubert, Lillian Breshers, Opal Word and Brenda John.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Sept. 22, 2005    FORE! A FOUR man scramble is being held at the Flying L Golf Course on October 8, 2005. This will be the 1st Annual Golf Tournament sponsored by The Silver Sage Corral. All golfers are welcome. Registration will continue until Sept. 30, if you intend to play, drop off your entry fee at The Silver Sage Corral or mail to P.O. Box 1416, Bandera, TX 78003. Checks should be made payable to The Silver Sage Corral.     You can pick up a registration form at The Flying L Golf Course or at The Silver Sage Corral. The cost is $70 per player which includes green fees, cart rental and lunch buffet. The 1st place team will win $600, 2nd place $400 and 3rd place $280. There will also be prizes for the longest putt, closest to the pin, longest drive and a 4 wheeler has been donated by Alamo Cycle-Plex for the hole in one prize. There will be certificate give-aways, a raffle and silent auction. Rain out date will be Oct. 22.     The Cajun Fest is almost here. To get you in the mood, The Silver Sage Corral will be having Cajun Dancers perform in our Great Hall on Sept. 23 at 2 pm. This event is free and every one is welcome. "Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler" (Let the good times roll), as our Cajun friends say.     For those of you who miss the Cajun Fest, our birthday pot luck luncheon menu will consist of Cajun Cuisine (It won't be spicy). The luncheon will be Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 11:30 am. Bring a side dish that will serve 10 to 12 people. If you need some ideas for a dish, call Lisa or Laura at 796-4969, we have a wonderful Cajun Cookbook that Kathryn White has loaned to us.     Our Friday Night Jam Session will be Sept. 23 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Bring a snack food to share. Come one, come all and enjoy the music, dancing, food and friends. Admission is on a donation basis. The donations help with our utility and operating expenses. They allow us to continue sponsorship of our variety of programs like the Jam Session.     Participation in our Tuesday night yoga class has dwindled to a sparse few. The professional instructor, Loren Hutchinson, travels from Kerrville. It is an excellent opportunity to release some stress after a long day at the office. The class is held every Tuesday at 6 pm. For each class, the cost is $4 a person. If you wish to participate, all you have to do is show up and bring a yoga mat.     All clothing, including the new western wear, hats and boots will be on sale for 25 percent off for the remaining of the month at The Silver Sage Emporium. There is still plenty of western wear for women and some children and large men's sizes. An array of other clothing that has been donated by individuals to support our senior programs is included in the 25 percent off sale. If you would like to donate slightly used items that are in good condition to The Emporium, it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am - 3 pm. Call 796-3590 to make arrangements for any items that may need to be picked up.     All the votes are not in yet. You still have time. Call 796-4969 and place your vote as to whether you would like to have music played on tapes featuring Irvin Stevens as the DJ or if you would like to have Karaoke on Sunday afternoons here at the Corral.     Health Screen Specialists of America will be hosting a stroke prevention and vascular disease screening on Wednesday, Sept. 28. A family physician typically cannot order an ultrasound evaluation for someone who does not have symptoms of vascular disease or osteoporosis. Health Screen Specialists enables you to detect health concerns before they become health problems. The screenings are quick, non-invasive and painless. Call 1-800-218-9041 today to schedule your screening.     I am glad to let you know that Sid Wilmot is out of the hospital and is doing well. Get well wishes continue to go out to Adeline Herbst and Martina McNamana.     Happy Birthday wishes to Bob Fillpot, Gordan Coker, Carol Hilton, Leisha Rister, Ruth Woodhull, Travis Morgan, King Stokes, Don Ball, Bernice Morgan, Jack Pearson, Lee Newman, Margie Bratton and Karen Johnson.

Melodiers perform by Judy Goodenough Published Sept. 15, 2005    The Melodiers, singers and auto harp players from the Silver Sage Corral, performed a program of happy songs at the Bandera nursing home Tuesday, Sept. 6.     The group met at the senior center to rehearse at 9:30 a.m., then went to the nursing home to share their music with residents there at 10:30 a.m.     If you like to sing or play the auto harp, consider joining the Melodiers. Regular rehearsing time is 10 a.m. every Tuesday morning except on the first Tuesday of each month.     Rehearsal is at 9:30 a.m. and the trip to the nursing home to present the program is 10:30 a.m.     The group includes some families of home-school children as well as the local retired folks that become family at the Silver Sage Corral. Come join.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 25, 2005    Can you believe it is almost September? The Silver Sage Corral will be closed Sept. 5 in observance of Labor Day. If you receive meals on wheels and wish to order an extra meal for that Monday, please call by 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 2 and place your order.     I would like to remind everyone that school is back in session. With our Center being so close to the high school, we need to be careful and stay alert; there will be extra traffic.     Yee-haw! He's a pickin' and she's a grinnin'! The 4th Friday Jam is Aug. 26 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Come by the Corral and play, listen or dance. Bring a finger food to share with all. Y'all come by now, ya' hear?     The Melodiers will resume their practice on Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to come and join the singers. They give several performances throughout Bandera County during the year.     FREE! Yes, our famous foot clinic is free. For free, you will get your feet washed, massaged and your nails clipped. You can't beat the price. There is a nurse available to assist diabetics. It is scheduled for Sept. 1 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Come early and get in line. Don't forget to bring a towel. If you would like to stay and join us for lunch, please call 830-796- 4969 by 9 a.m. and place your order.     Friday, Sept. 2 from 7-9 a.m. is our board breakfast. They cook up some good grub. For $2.95 you can get Ken cakes (pancakes) with sausage or bacon or homemade biscuits and sausage gravy. The breakfast tacos come with egg, bacon or sausage, potatoes and cheese. They are $1.10 each. To go orders can be faxed to 830-60-8545. Please indicate on your order if you will be picking it up or if you want it to be delivered. Deliveries are after 9 a.m.     There is a new senior living retirement community for independent seniors in Bandera. The Terraces at Bandera is located at 167 Beaumont Street Some of the amenities include total yard care and weekly maid service. There are only six units available so hurry and contact Robert Tyler at 713-299-7109 to discuss leasing arrangements or visit their web site at www.Terracesatbandera.com.     We are in need of a few good men or women volunteers. There are several positions available including kitchen server and front desk receptionist. Please call Lisa or Laura at 830-796-4969 if you are interested.     The Silver Sage Emporium is now running weekly specials. Stop by and check them out. Also, there is still plenty of western wear, boots and hats for sale. Don't miss out on these bargains.     Our condolences go out to Betty Baxter for the loss of her son, David Lape.     Get well wishes go out to Della Mae Cox. I am pleased to let you know that Jack Mackey, Wilvie Smith and Mary Garcia are up and doing much better. We wish them continued healing.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 4, 2005    On Aug. 8, at noon, we will be having some guest speakers about the new Medicare Part D. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and will also help you with the completion of the application. Plan on attending as this will be very informative and helpful.     Don't forget if you signed up for the 55 Alive Defensive Driving Class, it is scheduled for Aug. 9 and 10 at 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you would like a meal that day you must call 830-796-4969 by 9 a.m and place your order.     Have you ever been in the situation that you wished you knew how to use a fire extinguisher? Or, have just forgotten how to use one? We will be having a fire extinguisher training course Aug. 11 at 9 a.m. We are fortunate enough to have Mr. Ralph Dresser, Bandera County Fire Marshal, here to teach and/or refresh us on the proper use of a fire extinguisher and to answer any questions you may have. This will be a hands on course.     Our Kinder, LA trip is full, but we have two single spaces available to room with another participant. One is male and one is a smoking female. Remember, you must pay by Aug. 17. If you do not pay by then we will assume you have cancelled and we will notify the next person on the waiting list. So please get your money in on time.     The Silver Sage Emporium has a huge selection of LP records. They are going for cheap. If you are a collector or just like to listen to records, stop by the Emporium and take your pick. There are various artists and a lot of collector sets.     Happy Birthday and many more to Jay Field, Beverly Herbolsheimer, Cindy Masengale, Helen Hicks, Bill Araiza, Della Bailey, Boyd Noack, Ellen Garver, Wheeler Petty and Jacque Morrow.

Retirees building for retirees Introducing The Terraces at Bandera By Stephanie Logue Published Aug. 4, 2005 Doris and Bob Tyler turned their retirement into work to make retirement more enjoyable for other seniors. For rental information about The Terraces at Bandera, call them at 713-299-7109.    Shortly after beginning their lives sans employment, Bob and Doris Tyler realized two things about retirement: it was boring and fiscally unrewarding. So using miles of lumber, Bob terraced the 167 block of Beaumont and transformed it into a retirement community.     The Terraces at Bandera was designed for independent seniors. The only concessions to age are the half-rise steps leading up to the custom built patios that span each unit and the total yard care and weekly maid service.     With the goal of making retirement years enjoyable, The Terraces at Bandera is located within half-a-mile of the Silver Sage Senior Activities Center. Privacy fenced yards are shaded by huge trees. Each yard and deck of the six-unit retirement community has been designed and built around trees and native plants, making it unique. Landscaping includes birdbaths, bird feeders, bird houses and a variety of colorful plants and shrubs.     Also remarkable, each unit has a carport with enough space for two vehicles. Covered awnings run from the carport to the front door and offering protection from both summer sun and inclement weather. Two-way switches provide lighting for the stairs at night. Four street lights and lights along the driveway remove the intimidation from nighttime returns to home and parking.     The six units all have two bedrooms, two full baths (with a garden tub off the master bedroom), an open, inviting kitchen-living room space complete with a dishwasher and a utility room.     Bob started building at 167 Beaumont in December 2004. It took him two months to clear and clean the property, carefully saving the existing trees. He built the first unit -- a prototype -- by himself. That took three months. After Bob was sure his idea would work, he hired local construction crews and purchased semitruck loads of lumber from Hevenor Lumber. The result -- Bandera Terraces -- with what Doris calls "friendly fences" that are double-sided for aesthetics, low enough for neighbors to chat together and high enough to screen off each unit into a totally private, beautifully landscaped world.     The Terraces at Bandera was designed for non-smokers and not designed to meet the needs of pets or children. Having elderly parents sparked Bob's and Doris' interest in building for retirement-age seniors. "And," Doris laughs, "we fall into that category now too."     Being in that category does not stop master-landscaper Doris from planting breath-taking gardens with rocks and native, deer-resistant plants. Nor did it stop Bob from both building and overseeing the retirement community to completion.     Bob grew up in Sabinal and, since Doris was from Houston , spent 30 years living in Houston. "I told Doris, 'for 30 years I've lived down there and messed with traffic. Now that your mom and dad have passed away and we have no jobs, let's live where I want to live.'"     The result is a split between the ranch he leases in Tarpley and the property the couple bought between Bandera and Kerrville. Until their home in Houston sells, Doris' time is also split between two locations.     "I had never done anything like this before," Bob says, expressing appreciation for Bandera County's friendly and talented people. "I met people like Steve Horn (who did the concrete work) and Buddy Sandidge (an electrician) who taught me a lot. I'm hands-on. I get very involved. I participated in the project from start to finish.     "Every deck is free-formed to fit around trees and different from the others in some way. Steve even built a curvy sidewalk to save trees. I told him 'just make it pretty,' and I think he did. I also enlarged and shaped the yards to give each of them the benefit of shade trees and preexisting vegetation. "     So dedicated was Bob to his vision, that one deck is built around three trees. One privacy fence is built around a huge tree limb, which gives both connecting units the benefit of both the shade and the beauty.     The Terraces at Bandera is a retirement community with heart -- a reflection of Bob and Doris Tyler.     For more information, call 713-299-7109 or visit the website at www.terracesatbandera.com.

Jellystone sale sour deal for Inky Senior citizen eyes loss of lifetime RV site lease BCC Staff Published July 28, 2005    Ingrid ("Inky") Blumenthal holds a paid-infull $6,500 contract for a lifetime lease on a camping space at Pioneer River Resort -- formerly Jellystone Park -- but the sale of the resort has sent her to a new park. Former owner Bob Abbey refused comment when asked why Blumenthal must now pay to park her RV at a new location in spite of having purchased a permanent lease from him.     Abbey's Vacation Resorts Platinum Group signed the contract with Blumenthal on April 16, 1996 and added to the contract twice, requiring Blumenthal to pay for electricity and a $300 per year maintenance fee. She paid the $300 maintenance fee for 2005 on Dec. 17, 2004. "I always paid it up ahead of time so there would be no problem," the senior citizen said.     "I purchased a lease on space Number 10. That space was destroyed in the 2002 Flood. It was not possible for me to move back until the park was rehabilitated. That was in April 2003."     Blumenthal returned to Jellystone in October 2004, even though her permanently leased space had not yet been repaired. She moved into a site in the main park. On Wednesday, July 6, without prior notice, Blumenthal found the park had been sold. When she attempted to discuss her lifetime agreement, she was informed that the new owners had not purchased the Jellystone-Yogi Bear business and therefore had no commitment to Blumenthal's contract. She was informed that she would be charged $175 per month, plus electricity. Blumenthal moved out of the park on July 11.     Bandera City Police Department officer Neil McLean investigated a series of complaints surrounding Abbey's sale of the property two years ago. As in Blumenthal's case, memberships were not accepted and residents were not warned ahead of time. McLean's investigation turned up no evidence of deception. "Since it can't be shown that deception was involved," McLean said, "it is a civil action. Those with complaints can hire an attorney and take their case to court."

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published July 28, 2005    You better hurry or you are going to get left behind. Our trip to Kinder, La. is filling up fast. The bus leaves the Corral at 6 a.m. on Aug. 25 and returns about 11 p.m. on Aug. 26. The cost is $30 per person for double occupancy and $60 for single. This cost covers your coach fair via Si Texas Tours, a one night stay at the Holiday Inn, which is located next door to the Coushatta Casino Resort, a continental breakfast and a $23 coupon to use for meals or cash it in for more chips.     On the way, the bus will stop at Buc-ees for a leg stretch break and again in Beaumont at Luby's for lunch. On the way back, the bus will stop in Winnie, amongst numerous fast food restaurants. It will be your choice of where you want to eat. You are allowed to bring drinks and food on the bus if you wish. Come by the Corral and sign up now or call us at 796-4969 and we will put you on the list.     There are still a few slots available for our 55 Alive Defensive Driving Course. The class will be Aug. 9-10 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. You must attend both days to receive a certificate for your insurance. This course is not good for ticket removal. Stop by the Corral or call us at 796-4969 and get signed-up.     Kathryn White was the lucky winner of our lawn care raffle. She will have the Bandera Bells working hard in her yard. Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets, all proceeds go directly to the Silver Sage Corral. A Special thank you goes to the Bandera Bells for supporting the seniors in the Bandera County community.     We are in need of a few good men or women who would like to volunteer. Currently, we need a front desk receptionist on Wednesday and Friday afternoon. The hours are from noon to 4 p.m. Also, the Silver Sage Emporium is in need of a volunteer for every other Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a volunteer that can fill in for vacations, sick days and just on the spur of the moment. If you are interested, please call 830-796- 4969 or come by the Corral at 803 Buck Creek.     Raffle tickets will be on sale at the Corral for the 2005 Raffle Quilt "Boots & Broncs." It is on display at the Silver Sage. It was machine pieced/hand appliquéd by the Heritage Club Study Group and machine quilted by Karen Hoskelis. Raffle tickets cost $1 for one ticket or $5 for six tickets. The drawing will be held Oct. 16 during the "Fall into Quilting" quilt show scheduled for Oct. 15-16 at the Silver Sage Corral. You do not have to be present to win. All proceeds from the ticket sales go to the Silver Sage Corral.     The Melodiers will be resuming their practices at the Silver Sage Corral. The first practice will be Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. They will be preparing for a program in September. If you would like to join, contact us at 796-4969. Every age is invited to join.     Get well wishes go out to Jack Mackey, Mary Garcia, Jay Field and Wilvie Smith.     Happy Birthday and many more to Lois Hayes, Judy Goodenough, Mary Zirkel, Tom Heywood and Cecilia Schmidtke.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published July 21, 2005    The volunteer appreciation party was a success with approximately 55 volunteers attending. Speaker Sister Cecilia Gros had interesting stories about her life in Ghana, West Africa. She has taught crippled children to swim and says it is a beautiful sight to see them so free in the water. Thank you, volunteers, for all your hard work and dedication. It is greatly appreciated.     Trip to Kinder     Seating is still available for the trip to Kinder, La. The group will leave the Silver Sage Corral at 6 a.m. on Aug. 25 and return around 11 p.m. on Aug. 26. The cost is $30 per person for double occupancy and $60 for single. That covers coach fair via Si Texas Tours, a one-night stay at the Holiday Inn next to the Coushatta Casino Resort, a continental breakfast and a $23 coupon to use for meals or cash in for more chips. The bus will stop twice on the way to Louisiana, once in Beaumont at Luby's for lunch. It will also stop twice on the way back. The stop in Winnie will allow passengers their choice of fast food. Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. Sign up at the Corral or call 830-796-4969.     Drive Alive course     A few slots are available for the 55 Alive Defensive Driving course on Aug. 9 and 10 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Both days must be attended to receive a certificate for insurance. The course is not good for ticket removal. Stop by the Corral or call 830-796- 4969 to sign up.     Quilt raffle     Raffle tickets are on sale at the Corral for the 2005 Raffle Quilt, "Boots and Broncs." The quilt was machine pieced and hand appliqued by the Heritage Club Study Group and machine quilted by Karen Hoskelis. Raffle tickets are $1 for one ticket or $5 for six tickets. The drawing will be held Oct. 16 during the "Fall into Quilting" quilt show scheduled for Oct. 15-16 at the Corral. You do not need to be present to win. Proceeds go to the Silver Sage.     Birthday luncheon     The monthly birthday luncheon will be Tuesday, July 26 at 11:30. Spaghettizucchini casserole and cucumber salad will be served. It is a potluck, so please bring a dish to serve at least 12 or a $3 donation in advance so a dish can be prepared.     Catholic Charities will attend as a guest speaker and will prepare attendees free of charge with a power of attorney, medical power of attorney and directive to physician. They will also answer legal questions about these documents, wills and guardianships.     Melodiers     The Melodiers will resume practice at the Corral on Aug. 30 at 10 a.m., preparing for a program in September. If you would like to join, call 830-796-4969. Every age is invited to join.     Birthday wishes     Happy birthday and many more to Ethel Fitzgerald, Melvin King, Irma Gomes, Matthew Rogers, Norman Lloyd, Kathy Cerwin, Thomas McMullen, Henrietta White, Eva Shedd, Bobby Malone and Carol Reinhard.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published July 14, 2005    Kinder trip     Let's get ready to gamble! We have scheduled a trip to Kinder, Louisiana on Aug. 25-26. We will leave the Corral Thursday at 6 a.m. and return Friday at 11 p.m. The cost is $30 per person for double occupancy and $60 for single. This cost covers your bus ride via Si Texas Tours, a one night stay at the Holiday Inn with a continental breakfast and a $23 coupon to use at your discretion. You can cash it in for chips or you can use it for your dining pleasures. Come by the Corral and sign up or call us at 796-4969 and we will put you on the list.     Driving course     There are still some spaces available for our 55 Alive Defensive Driving Course. The class is scheduled for Aug. 9- 10 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. You must attend both days to receive a certificate for your insurance. This course is not good for ticket removal. Stop by the Corral or call us at 796- 4969 and get signed-up. There is limited space available so get your name on the list as soon as possible.     Lawn care raffle     The drawing for our lawn care raffle will be July 20. The Bandera Bells will pamper the winner's lawn on Saturday, July 23.     Come by the Corral and purchase your tickets. Tickets are $2 each. There haven't been many tickets sold, so your odds of winning are great!     Raffle quilt     Your must see it to appreciate it. The 2005 Raffle Quilt "Boots & Broncs" is now on display at the Silver Sage. It is beautiful. It was machine pieced/hand appliquéd by the Heritage Club Study Group and machine quilted by Karen Hoskelis. Raffle tickets cost $1 for one ticket or $5 for six tickets.     The drawing will be held Oct. 16 during the "Fall into Quilting" quilt show scheduled for Oct. 15- 16 at the Silver Sage Corral. You do not have to be present to win. All proceeds from the ticket sales go to the Silver Sage.     Volunteer needed     The Silver Sage Emporium is still in need of a volunteer to work every other Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.     If you are a people person you are the one for the job. Contact Ken Clark at 830-796-4969 if you are interested.     Mystery lunch     Where will we go? What will we eat? It's Mystery Lunch time. We will be leaving the Corral on Tuesday, July 19 at 10:30. This is always a fun adventure. Sign up at the Corral or call us at 796- 4969 and we will sign you up.     Birthdays     Happy Birthday and many more to Mary Eitzen, R. D. Whiteside, Helen Berkley, Lea Sistruck, Marguerite Stevens, Jane Malone, Ken Clark, Ruth Cooper, Frank Nuanes, Evalyn Poole, Connie Taylor, and Clarice Wilson.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published July 7, 2005    The ever popular free foot clinic will be held this Thursday at the Silver Sage, from 10-11:30 a.m. Bring a towel and your feet will be given treatment to keep them smiling for the rest of the day.     The volunteer appreciation party will be held on Wednesday, July 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the Lakehills Civic Center, 1225 PR 37. Two buses will transport on a first-come, first-seated basis. One bus will leave the Silver Sage at 4 p.m. and the next bus will leave at 5:30 p.m. All Bandera, Lakehills, Pipe Creek and Medina-area Silver Sage Corral volunteers are invited. Finger foods, drinks and desserts will be served. Boyd and Mary Beth Noack will pick up our special guest speaker, Sister Cecelia Gros, from the airport on July 7. She is flying in from Ghana, West Africa. I'm sure she will be excited to be back home in Lakehills. If you need directions to the volunteer party, call 830-796-4969. We hope to see all volunteers attend.     Charlotte Curry will hold an oil painting workshop on July 11 and 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the art class room. She will teach techniques for the hill country, bluebonnets and hills and rocks in water. Call Olga Bolduc at 830-0796-4839 for more information.     The 55 Alive Defensive Driving Course is filing up fast. It is scheduled for Aug. 9 and 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Drivers must attend both days to receive a certificate for insurance. This course is not good for ticket removal. To sign up, stop by the Corral or call at 830-796-4969. Limited space is available.     Jo Russell was pleased with the lawn maintenance performed by the Bandera Bells. One more lawn care raffle will be held on July 20. The Bandera Bells will pamper the winner's lawn on Saturday, July 23. Come by the Corral to purchase a ticket. Tickets are $2. Your chances of winning are good!     The 2005 Raffle Quilt "Boots and Broncs" is now on display at the Silver Sage. It is beautiful. It was machine pieced and hand appliqued by the Heritage Club Study Group and machine quilted by Karen Hoskelis. Raffle tickets are $1 per ticket or $5 for six tickets. The drawing will be held on Oct. 16 during the "Fall Into Quilting" quilt show scheduled for Oct. 15-16 at the Silver Sage. You do not have to be present to win. All proceeds from the ticket sales to to the Silver Sage.     The Silver Sage Emporium is in desperate need of a volunteer to work every other Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you are a people-person, you will love it. Contact Ken Clark at 830-796-4969 if you are interested.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published June 30, 2005    The monthly breakfast will be Friday, July 1, from 7-9 a.m. Join everyone in the dining room or place your order by phone or fax. For $2.75, you can have your choice of biscuits and gravy, pancakes with bacon or sausage or breakfast tacos. Each dine-in order includes orange juice or coffee. To-go breakfast tacos are $1.10 each. Call 830-796-4969 to order by phone or 830-460-8545 to fax. Indicate when placing the order if you will pick it up or need it delivered.     Volunteers are special people. A volunteer appreciation party will be held Wednesday, July 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the Lakehills Civic Center, 11225 PR 37. Finger foods, drinks and desserts will be served. Sister Cecelia Gros, missionary in Gahna, West Africa, will be the guest speaker. She calls Lakehills home and will entice enthusiasm as she relates her experiences. All Bandera, Lakehills, Pipe Creek and Medina area Silver Sage Corral volunteers are invited. If you need directions, call 830- 796-4969.     Jo Russell won the lawn care raffle. She will have her lawn pampered by the Bandera Bells Dance Team this weekend. One more lawn care raffle ticket will be drawn on July 23, so come by the Corral to purchase a ticket. Tickets are $2 each. Your odds of winning are great!     The 2005 raffle quilt, "Boots and Broncs," is now on display at the Silver Sage. It was machine pieced and hand appliqued by the Heritage Club Study Group and machine quilted by Karen Hoskelis. Raffle tickets are $1 for one or $5 for six. The drawing will be held on Oct. 16 during the "Fall into Quilting" quilt show scheduled for Oct. 15 and 16 at the Silver Sage. You do not need to be present to win.     Get your Bandera County Sheriff's Department refrigerator card. These cards need to be completed and posted on your refrigerator. They are helpful to emergency personnel during emergencies. Stop by the Corral and pick one up or call at 830-796-4969 and ask for a card to be mailed to you. Get well wishes go out to Jack Mackey and Pat Mayfield. If you know of anyone who is ill and needs get well wishes, call Laura or Lisa at 830-796- 969.     Happy birthday and many more to Nancy Gibbs, Julian Talichet, Myra Chevalier, Dan Huffman, Frank Lape, Raymond White, Margaret Callahan, Marcia Bower, Leon Salzman and Ann Guilott.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published June 23, 2005    The Silver Sage Corral has received a grant from LCRA that will enable the senior activities center to upgrade the kitchen to meet commercial standards. This will enable the center to cook meals for congregate groups and Meals on Wheels recipients. Plans are to have the kitchen completed and the new program in place by September.     Bandera County Sheriff's Department refrigerator cards are now available. These cards need to be completed and posted on the refrigerator. They help emergency personnel in the event of an emergency. Stop by the center and pick one up or call 830-796-4646 and ask for one to be mailed to you.     Special needs forms are also available for those with disabilities or difficulty getting out of the house in case of an emergency. Once these forms are completed and turned into the sheriff's department, they will be kept on file. If a 911 call comes from your location, the information will automatically appear on the computer. This enables the 911 dispatcher to handle the situation according to your needs.     Tapestry classes have been canceled for June, July and August and will resume in September. Seems everyone has exciting plans for the summer.     Don't forget about the Friday Night jam. It will be Friday, June 24, at 6:30 p.m. All musicians are welcomed. Bring a snack or finger food to share with all and enjoy the pickin' and grinnin.'     The monthly potluck luncheon will be Tuesday, June 28. Beef enchiladas, rice and beans will be served. Bring a side dish to feed at least 10 people. Those unable to bring a side dish may donate $3 and a side dish will be provided.     Get well wishes go out to Nick Lonnarona and Mary Young.     Happy birthday and many more to Noel Goodloe, Mickie Towers, Evelyn Wyatt, Stanley Johnson, Tommy Schulz, William Cornelsion, Gail Hord Susan Jennen, Kay Wilmot, Adele Murphy, Victor Sanders, Linda Shaw and Vera Smith.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published June 16, 2005    The Silver Sage Emporium bag sale was a great success and made room to bring in the new clothing that was donated by Janet Moore at The Cowboy Store. Many clothes are left to choose from at a clearance sale price. The Silver Sage Corral thanks the Cowboy Store for their generosity.     The Second Sunday Social has been canceled for June, July and August. Steve Forrest, a member of the Paul Flowers Quartet, will be undergoing knee surgery and will be unable to perform. Everyone wishes him well. An attempt will be made to resume the social in August.     For those needing lawn care, raffle tickets are on sale for $2 each. Lucky winners will be entitled to The Bandera Bells Dance Team's lawn care service on Saturday, June 25 or Saturday, July 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Bandera Bells Dance Team will mow, plant flowers or take care of other lawn maintenance. Tickets will be drawn on Wednesday, June 22 and Wednesday, July 6. Take a chance and let a "Bell" help you.     Get well wishes go out to Barbara Bartkoviak and Dough Schultz. And condolences to Wes Van Vleet on the loss of his son.     Happy birthday and many more to Jackie Billups, Georgia Mae Erfurt, Mamie Mayfield, Lois Buxkemper, Mona Rollison, Jill Tallman, Alfred Anderwald, Marcia Buckman, Martha Willems, Bettie Hawkins, Clifford Herbst, Kenneth Thompson and Louise Leibold.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL By Ken Clark Published May 19, 2005    As you all know by now, Patricia Godkin has resigned as Silver Sage director to pursue greater challenges at the Cedar Creek Nursing Home in Bandera. We wish her well in her new position.     We wish Laura Tuttle well in her position as new executive director. She is enthusiastic, warm and friendly—attributes that will bring a great deal to the position. Come in, say "hello" and wish her well. On a similar note, Carol Hilton has accepted a position on the Silver Sage board of directors and brings a generous personality, wisdom and organizational skills.     Come and bring a friend for the May 24 birthday luncheon, beginning at 11:30 a.m. and dedicated to Pat Godkin for all her hard work, planning and contributions. The Silver Sage will supply hotdogs, hamburgers, French fries and baked beans, so bring a covered dish or donate $3 and enjoy a good lunch out on the patio—weather permitting.     Friday, May 27 will be the Friday Night Jam with finger foods. All musicians are welcome.     Yoga is Monday mornings at 10 a.m. with Willie McDaniel, Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. with Lauren Hutchinson and Thursday mornings at 8:30 a.m. using videotapes. All classes are only $4 and are open to all ages.     Oil painting classes every Monday morning at 9 a.m. with Olga Bolduc as the painting professional.     Exercise classes are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and everyone is welcome.     Weaving classes are every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. and more students are encouraged to attend. Also at 9 a.m. each Tuesday, the Bluebonnet Study Group meets for quilting and other interests.     Wednesdays usher in tapestry classes, beginning at 9 a.m. The Bandera Quilt Guild meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. The Heritage Study Group Quilters meet the first, second, fourth and fifth (in a long month) Wednesday, beginning at 9:30 a.m.     Thursdays boast some of some of the hottest domino/42 contents in the area, beginning at 12:30 p.m. in the dining room.     Fridays are for bridge, beginning at 9 a.m. Friday Night Quilters start at 6 p.m.     Lunch is available every weekday at 11:30 a.m. Menus are available at the front desk of the Silver Sage. If you are over 60, the suggested donation is $3. For those under 60, the cost is $4.75. Please call and reserve your meal by 9 a.m. that day. There will be no meals served on Monday, May 30, the Memorial Day holiday.     The Silver Sage Emporium is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There are a lot of new items and "gotta haves." The facility is in the strip mall next to the Mexican restaurant. Volunteers are waiting to show you around. A volunteer is still needed to fill in when someone is ill or takes the day off. Please call Ken Clark at 830-460-8313. A Meals on Wheels team (driver and jumper) is also needed each Thursday, beginning on May 26. Please call Laura at 830-796-4969.

Highlights from Silver Sage Corral Published May 12, 2005    Silver Sage Corral Executive Director Pat Godkin’s last day is May 13. Laura Tuttle, who has been administrative assistant at the Silver Sage Corral, will replace Godkin.     Godkin has accepted the position of office manager for Cedar Creek Nursing Home. "This was a very difficult decision," she said, "since I have enjoyed working with the seniors. I would like to personally thank all of the volunteers who have made my job so easy over the past two years. I appreciate all of the hours and dedication you put into the program. Unless you work at the center, you have no way of knowing what a difference these volunteers make in the lives of our seniors. Be sure and stop by the center and congratulate Laura."     Are you prepared for a medical emergency? It is important to have information readily available for EMS workers. If you live alone, it is critical.     If you are over 60 and live alone, it is recommended that you have a medical alert service. This typically consists of a panic button that is kept with you at all times. In the event you start feeling dizzy or fall, you can push the button and help will be dispatched. The Alamo Area Council of Governments has some units available for seniors. If you qualify, they will pay for the installation and the first six months of service. After that, the monthly fee is $30.     If you can’t afford this service, have a buddy program in place. Make arrangements with a friend, family member or neighbor to "check-in" on a daily basis. If you are uncomfortable with this option, the sheriff’s department has a volunteer who will call you on a daily basis. Her name is Fran Pue and you can call her at 830-589-7722. If you choose this option, you will need to commit to a time that Fran can call you every day. If you don’t answer, the Sheriff’s Department will be dispatched to your home. For more information, call the Silver Sage at 830-796-4969.     If you need to go to the hospital in an ambulance, the emergency medical technicians need critical information already filled out and easily available. Remember, you could be unconscious or disoriented. The sheriff’s office has a pink sheet with all the information needed. Get a copy or create your own.     If you create your own, include the following: your name, date of birth, health insurance information including policy numbers, a current list of all medications you are taking including over-the-counter supplements, a list of medicines you are allergic to, a list of your previous medical conditions, the name of your preferred hospital and your current doctors including telephone numbers and the names and numbers of your next of kin or the person you want to be notified of your condition. If you have a "Do Not Resuscitate" in place, it will need to be included with your other information. Without a copy, the medical personnel cannot honor your wishes.     After you have compiled the information, put it together in an envelope in a place easily spotted by EMS. Right by the door or on the refrigerator are two possible ideas. Put EMS on the outside of the envelope in big letters.     If you need help putting together an EMS packet, call the Silver Sage Corral and get an appointment for help. Bring all medications you are taking (including vitamins and over-the-counter supplements).     A gift shop volunteer is needed for every other Saturday, along with a floater who can fill in when someone is on vacation or sick. Anyone who can donate one day a week, please call Ken Clark at 830-460-8313.     The Melodiers will resume their practice schedule on Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. You do not need to be a senior to join this group. The only qualification is a desire to perform and the ability to have a good time.     Life Line Screening will be conducted at the Silver Sage on Tuesday, June 14. They will provide low-cost stroke/carotid artery, abdominal aortic aneurysm and peripheral arterial disease screening. The cost for each screening is $45, or you can purchase the package for $109. They also have osteoporosis screening available for $35, $129 for all four.     During the last screening, there were 84 participants. Four people, who had a regular physician but had never been tested for vascular disease, were diagnosed with life threatening diseases.     Birthdays for May 11-17 include Linda Lansford, Mary LeStourgeon, Sophie Mazurek, Louis Vannatter, Dick Westley, Dorothy Bailey, Bill Bryce, Robert Jones, Vivian Neal, Richard Sanford, Mary Noack, Charlotte Salzman and Liselotte Tietz. Happy birthday! If your name is not on the list or the date is wrong, come by the Silver Sage and update your information.

Silver Sage Melodiers plan future performances Published May 5, 2005    The Melodiers, singers and autoarp players from the Silver Sage performed a program of Spanish songs at the Bandera nursing home on Tuesday, May 3. The group met at the senior center to rehearse at 9:30, then went to the nursing home to present their music for the residents at 10:30. The May 3 program was the last meeting for the Melodiers until fall when they plan to meet at the Silver Sage on the last Tuesday of August at 10 a.m. to prepare a program for September.     If you like to sing or play the autoharp, you have all summer to think about joining the group which includes several families of home-schooled children as well as the local retired folks of the Silver Sage.