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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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Items should be typed or printed and should include the name and daytime phone number of a contact person. Items submitted after deadline will be considered for that week's edition but may be held over for later publication. Photos should include information on the time and place of the event, as well as full names of people from left to right, front row to back.

Seniors articles from 2006 archived in the on-line Courier:

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Dec. 21, 2006 Column Dec. 7, 2006 Column
Three East Texas Communities Recognized As Texas Certified Retirement Communities	Published Nov. 30, 2006
Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Nov. 30, 2006 Column Nov. 23, 2006 Column Nov. 16, 2006 Column Oct. 26, 2006 Column Oct. 19, 2006 Column Oct. 12, 2006 Column Oct. 5, 2006 Column Sept. 21, 2006 Column
Silver Sage Corral sponsors golf tournament	Published Sept. 14, 2006
Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Sept. 14, 2006 Column Sept. 7, 2006 Column Aug. 31, 2006 Column Aug. 24, 2006 Column Aug. 17, 2006 Column Aug. 10, 2006 Column Aug. 3, 2006 Column June 22, 2006 Column June 15, 2006 Column
TRIAD to meet June 15	Published June 8, 2006
Do you have a plan for your loved ones?	Published May 11, 2006
Did you have ancestors from Kerr County? Kerr 150 Committee to honor county residents 90 and older	Published March 9, 2006
Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Published March 9, 2006
Second Sunday Socials to begin DANCE, VISIT AND ENJOY	Published March 2, 2006
Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL	Feb. 23, 2006 Column Feb. 16, 2006 Column Feb. 2, 2006 Column Jan. 12, 2006 Column Jan. 5, 2006 Column
Current Seniors articles
Seniors articles published in 2007	Seniors articles published in 2005

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Dec. 21, 2006    Our Third Thursday Talk to be held Dec. 21 at 10:30 a.m. will feature a Christmas Sing Along. Come join us for our sign-along with a variety of traditional Christmas carols. The menu for Thursday includes baked ham with pineapple, glazed sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli and lemon meringue pie – why not plan to stay for lunch. Call the center at 796-4969 by 9 a.m. Thursday to order this festive meal.     Matt Hesley will be having the Friday Nite Jam Session Friday, Dec. 22, at 6:30 p.m. It's always an entertaining experience, so bring a friend and join in the fun. If you wish, bring a snack to share.     There's still time to shop our Thrift Store for those last minute items. If you have donations, you can drop them by during the regular store hours. Our normal hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through 3 a.m.. Because we depend on volunteers to operate the Thrift Store, call 796-3590 after 10 a.m. to make sure the Thrift Store is open.     Holiday closures:     Christmas Holiday: the center will be closed Monday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 26.     New Year Holiday: the center will be closed Monday, Jan. 1, and Tuesday, Jan, 2, 2007.     If you participate in the Meals-on-Wheels program, you might want to order extra meals on Friday, Dec. 22, for Dec. 25 and 26, or Friday, Dec. 29 for Jan. 1 and 2. The center's column is also taking a holiday and will not appear in the newspaper Thursday, Dec. 28.     Reminders:     The first week in January, we will resume the free foot clinic. Plan to be at the center by 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 4. The only requirement is to bring your own towel and feet that need some TLC.     We don't want you to forget the monthly breakfast held at the center on the first Friday of each month. What a way to start the New Year – come have breakfast with us Friday, Jan. 5, 2007. Our serving hours are 7 a.m. through 9 a.m. and you can't beat the prices. The food isn't too shabby either!!     In closing, all those associated with the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center – our wonderful volunteers, Board of Directors, Ann Gay Bishop, Executive Director, Lisa Chandler, Administrative Assistant and Ron Cramer, Maintenance, would like to wish each and every one of you a wonderful and blessed Holiday Season.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Dec. 7, 2006    The center will be showing the movie "The Nativity Story" Friday, Dec. 8. The time for the film has not yet been determined, so contact the center prior to Friday to confirm the time.     The Baptist Church Christmas Cantata will be presented at the Silver Sage Corral in the Great Room Friday, Dec. 15, beginning at 7 p.m. Plan to join us for a wonderful evening of music in celebration of the spirit of Christmas.     Now that the holiday season is upon us and the deserts and candies are in abundance, it might be a good time to start an exercise regime, to keep those extra pounds to a minimum, the center has exercise programs available. We have aerobics classes for seniors are held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings for an hour, starting at 8:30 a.m. in the Great Room. We also have a multi-level yoga class held every Monday morning at 10 a.m. in the Great Room, and everyone is welcome, whether you're a beginner or more advanced.     We're planning our cookie exchange for Thursday, Dec. 14. Call the center at 796-4969 to sign up. It's a perfect way to get a variety of home-baked cookies for the upcoming holidays. Each person bakes enough of their chosen cookie to give at least a half dozen to each of the participants on the list. Call the center at 796-4969 to find out how many have signed up so you'll know how many cookies to bake. When the exchange takes place, you end up with a wonderful assortment of holiday cookies, plus a visit from Santa.     We would like to thank all of you for making our Thrift Store 50 percent sale such a success. We consider it a win-win: shoppers got bargains and the Thrift Store made room for more donations. Now that Christmas is just around the corner, we have put out several Christmas decorations that are very reasonably priced. Our normal hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Because we depend on volunteers to operate the Thrift Store, call 796-3590 after 10 a.m. to make sure the Thrift Store is open.     In observance of the Christmas Holiday, the center will be closed Monday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 26. If you participate in the Meals-on-Wheels program, you might want to order extra meals Friday, Dec. 22.

Three East Texas Communities Recognized As Texas Certified Retirement Communities Published Nov. 30, 2006    AUSTIN (Nov. 20) - The Texas Department of Agriculture announced today that three communities - the city of Athens, the city of Lufkin and Nacogdoches County - are the first in the state to receive the designation of Certified Retirement Communities. This recognition comes from an initiative to help rural Texas communities encourage retirees and potential retirees to make their homes in areas of Texas that have met the criteria for certification by the department as a Texas Certified Retirement Community (CRC).     TDA launched the program in June 2006 to help Texas communities become part of a statewide marketing campaign to attract retirees and tourists. The CRC program encourages Texas tourism while promoting the state as a desirable retirement destination to retirees and potential retirees both in and outside Texas.     Communities seeking certification must complete applications and assessments covering a wide range of topics including demographics, tax structure, local housing availability, safety, employment opportunities, availability of health care services, public transportation, continuing education, leisure living, recreational areas and sports at all levels. The application also includes support from the community, a marketing plan and a long-term plan. An advisory team representing leaders in business, healthcare, city government and state government reviewed and scored the applications.     "A relocating couple has an economic impact of 3.7 factory jobs, and retirees bring a wealth of brainpower available for community service and part-time employment," said Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs. "We look forward to working with and supporting each new certified retirement community as we evaluate the qualities that make each place an ideal retirement destination."     Jeb Hensarling, U.S. congressman representing residents of Athens, is one of many who recognize how the ability of the state to attract retirees to its cities and communities will benefit both Texas and the retirees.     "This certification would help attract retirees to Texas, providing a great economic partnership for the city, state and seniors," Hensarling said.     The city of Athens, population 11,297, sought the CRC designation to bolster the economic impact retirees will have on the community's economy. This goal was reiterated by State Sen. Todd Staples, who understands how the CRC program benefits Texas and believes Athens has proved itself worthy of the designation.     "Athens hosts quality medical facilities, is home to a large community college system and maintains a myriad of recreational attractions including numerous golf courses and lakes," Staples said. "Athens also has many civic and volunteer organizations reflecting its strong community values."     State Rep. Betty Brown recommended the city of Athens for the CRC designation. She believes collaboration between Athens and TDA would surely increase visibility for potential residents. "Athens is in a prime position to become a CRC with the many amenities available, including the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, the East Texas Arboretum and the North East Texas Center for the Arts," Brown said in her recommendation letter. "Athenians are also blessed with facilities such as the local East Texas Medical Center and Trinity Valley Community College."     The city of Lufkin, population 32,709, recognizes that attracting quality retirees as future residents benefits the entire community. Lufkin has an abundance of recreational opportunities, a number of nationally recognized healthcare facilities and a welcoming attitude toward new and prospective residents.     Paul Parker, the city manager of Lufkin, said his community would be enriched by the influx of senior citizens who would bring a strong volunteerism and mentoring work ethic to the city.     "Because modern retirees typically have accrued assets and disposable income available, their arrival in the community would fuel increased desires for quality residential housing, superior medical facilities, contemporary shopping, entertainment venues and meaningful entrepreneurial opportunities," Parker said.     Angelina County Judge Joe Berry agreed, citing the wealth of experience retirees bring to a community.     "We feel retirees make for a much better community because they support the city and county's efforts to improve our communities with a better lifestyle," Berry said.     Nacogdoches County, population 59,203, located in the Texas Forest Country, offers retirees a great scenic setting combined with the cultural advantage of urban life. The county also offers low property tax rates.     During the 79th regular legislative session, State Rep. Roy Blake Jr. authored House Bill 1982, which established the Certified Retirement Community designation program. Blake expressed his full support of the community.     "I believe the natural beauty of the Piney Woods and lakes of East Texas, as well as the recreational and historical attributes of our area, make Nacogdoches a perfect community for retirees," Blake said.     Nacogdoches County Judge Sue Kennedy says a retiree can find the setting of their dreams in this community of character.     "Nacogdoches County offers the amenities of first-rate medical facilities, diverse medical specialties and accommodating physician offices and pharmacies," Kennedy said. "A day of shopping, visiting antique markets, strolling through museums and libraries, touring historical spots and dining at fine restaurants can make a routine trip to a physician a pleasant affair." The CRC program is open to any community in Texas wanting to showcase itself as a retirement location and a tourism destination. Communities that want to market, promote and develop themselves as desirable retirement setting are encouraged to apply.     For more information on the Texas Certified Retirement Community Program, please visit www.agr.state.tx.us or contact the Texas Department of Agriculture, Rural Economic Development Division, P.O. Box 12847, Austin, Texas 78711, or call the toll-free Rural Assistance line at (877)428-7848.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 30, 2006    Medicare Part D Update – Wednesday, Nov. 29, at 10:30 a.m.. A representative from AACOG (Alamo Area Council of Governments) will present a program on prescription plans covered by Medicare Part D. If you are currently on prescription medication, you are asked to bring in your list of medications for evaluation to help determine the most economical plan for you. If you'd like to stay for lunch, call the center by 9 a.m. and order a meal.     You have two more days to shop the center's Thrift Store and take advantage of the 50% off sale (on most items) that will run through the end of November. We're also having a bag sale, but we've lowered the price to $2. Fill a bag with as many clothes as the bag will hold for a total of $2. With the threat of cool weather it's a good time to stock up on warmer clothing. Treasures await your purchase. Our normal hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Because we depend on volunteers to operate the Thrift Store, call 796-3590 after 10 a.m. to make sure the Thrift Store is open.     Is breakfast your favorite meal? If so, come join us at the Silver Sage Friday, Dec. 1, for a delicious breakfast featuring a variety of selections including breakfast tacos with eggs, hash brown potatoes, bacon, sausage and cheese; biscuits and gravy, and pancakes and sausage. Come meet the members of the Board of Directors as they prepare and serve breakfast. The prices are right, the food is delicious, and best of all, the proceeds help support the Silver Sage Corral! If you can't stay for breakfast, fax in your to-go order at 796-8970 and you can pick it up anytime between 7 and 9 a.m..     If you like cookies, our annual cookie exchange is a terrific way to acquire a variety of cookies to share with family and friends during the holidays. Last year we had several participants, all of whom enjoyed the variety of cookies they received on the scheduled day of exchange, plus the visit from Santa who made the day complete. We've started a "cookie list" and if you're interested, include your name on the list. Based on the number signed up, each person bakes their enough of their chosen cookie to give at least ½ dozen to each of the participants. When the exchange takes place, enjoy the rewards of those participating and have a wonderful assortment of holiday cookies. Ceramics Class Update: the ceramics classes have been scheduled for 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. There's still room for participants. If you're interested, please contact the center and register for the classes. There will be a supply list available for those participating. Several molds are available for you to select from, making it easy to plan your first project. It's not too late to think Christmas gifts!     The foot clinic, normally held the First Thursday of the month, has been canceled for the month of December. The free foot clinic will resume the Thursday Jan. 4, 2007.     If you're not familiar with the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center and its services, we'd love to have you stop by for a tour of the facility at 803 Buck Creek Blvd., or contact us by phone at 796-4969. While you're there, you can pick up a monthly menu and calendar of events. We also rent out the great hall and dining room for meetings and parties.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 23, 2006    We kicked off the holiday season with our annual style show sponsored by The Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. All of those in attendance had a very enjoyable evening and got wonderful ideas for gift giving, available from our local merchants. We would like to extend our heart-felt thanks to Peggy Ashmore and Margaret Paradee for their tremendous effort in organizing the event. Several of the Silver Sage board members and volunteers provided their time and talents in assisting with this event. We would also like to thank all volunteers and local merchants who donated food items for refreshments. We are thankful every day that we live in such a wonderfully supportive community.     The Thrift Store 50% off sale (on most items) that will run through the end of November. We're also having a bag sale, but we've lowered the price to $2. Fill a bag with as many clothes as the bag will hold for a total of $2. With cool weather it's a good time to stock up on warmer clothing. Stop by and see how many treasures you can find for a real deal. The Thrift Store will be closed Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Nov. 23-25 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Our normal hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Because we depend on volunteers to operate the Thrift Store, call 796-3590 after 10 am to make sure the Thrift Store is open.     Come join us for our birthday luncheon to be held Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 11:30 am. We're celebrating those who have November birthdays and lunch is on us. If your birthday isn't in November, come anyway, join in the fun, and all we ask is that you bring a side dish to compliment the main dishes provided by the center. The birthday luncheon is always the fourth Tuesday of each month. We apologize that last week's column identifying Nov. 21 for the birthday luncheon was in error. If you're ever unsure about the dates of the regularly scheduled events held at the center, please call 796-4969.     Think cookies! We're in the planning stages for our December cookie exchange. Last year we had several participants, all of whom enjoyed the variety of cookies they received on the scheduled day of exchange, plus the visit from Santa who made the day complete. We've started a "cookie list" and if you're interested, include your name on the list. When the exchange takes place, enjoy the rewards of those participating and have a wonderful assortment of holiday cookies for family and friends. Ceramics Class Update: the ceramics classes have been scheduled for 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. There's still room for participants. If you're interested, please contact the Center and register for the classes. There will be a supply list available for those participating. We have several molds available to select from, making it easy to plan your first project. Think Christmas gifts!     Closed for the Holidays. The Silver Sage Corral will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23-24. No meals will be served those days, but you can order extra meals Wednesday, to have available for Thursday and Friday.     Medicare Part D Update – Wednesday, Nov. 29 at 10:30 a.m.: we have a representative from AACOG (Alamo Area Council of Governments) presenting a program on prescription plans covered by Medicare Part D. If you are currently on prescription medication, you are asked to bring in your list of medications for evaluation to help determine the most economical plan for you.     Cancellations: There will be no Friday Night Jam Session for the month of November     The foot clinic, normally held on the first Thursday of the month, has been cancelled for the month of December. We apologize to those of you who came for the November foot clinic and found it cancelled. We will resume the free foot clinic the first Thursday in January, 2007.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Nov. 16, 2006    Start off the holiday season by attending the November Style Show, to be held Thursday evening, Nov. 16, at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available at The Gingerbread House, Shoe Biz, or the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity center for $15. This is a perfect opportunity to preview current gifts and fashions available at the Gingerbread House and Shoe Biz. It's a wonderful way to get ideas for your holiday shopping and support our local retailers. We promise you'll enjoy yourself and you may even win one of the door prizes. Refreshments will be served after the show. Proceeds from the sale of tickets help support the Silver Sage Corral.     Attention shoppers: the Thrift Store has received so many donations, that we're running out of storage room. In order for us to reduce our inventory, we're having a 50% off sale that will run through the end of November. We're also having a bag sale, but we've lowered the price to $2. Fill a bag with as many clothes as the bag will hold for a total of $2. Stop by and see how many treasures you can find for a real deal. We're open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Because we depend on volunteers to operate the Thrift Store, call 796-3590 after 10 a.m. to make sure the Thrift Store is open.     Come join us for our birthday luncheon Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 11:30 a.m. We're celebrating those who have November birthdays and lunch is on us. If your birthday isn't in November, come anyway, and join in the fun. All we ask is that you bring a side dish to compliment the main dishes provided by the center.     Think cookies! We're in the planning stages for our December cookie exchange. Last year we had several participants, all of whom enjoyed the variety of cookies they received on the scheduled day of exchange, plus the visit from Santa who made the day complete.     A list will be started at the center. If you're interested, include your name on the list. When the exchange takes place, enjoy the rewards of those participating and have a wonderful assortment of holiday cookies for family and friends. Ceramics classes are being scheduled for Fridays at 1 p.m. The first class started Friday, Nov. 3. There are still lots of room for participants. If you're interested, please contact the Center and register for the classes. There will be a supply list available for those participating. We have several molds to select from, making it easy to plan your first project. Think Christmas gifts!     Closed for the Holidays: the Silver Sage Corral will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23-24. No meals will be served those days, but you can order extra meals for Wednesday, to have available for Thursday and Friday.     There will be no Friday Night Jam Session for the month of November.     Cancellations: The foot clinic, normally held on the first Thursday of the month, has been cancelled for the month of December. We apologize to those of you who came for the November foot clinic and found it cancelled. We will resume the free foot clinic the first Thursday in January, 2007.     Happy Birthday wishes to those celebrating their Nov. 16-30 birthdays: Lola Barton, Phyllis Boulware, Jacky Buck, Bob Caswell, Maurice Center, James Duff, Leona Dukes, Vona Fremland, Mamie Garrett, Ed Gase, Yolanda Goodloe, Clyde Greene, Maxine Jank, Jerry Jilek, Truman Looper, Fred Mansell, Peggy Maris, Jo Ann Marshall, Dolores Matheny, Bonnie Mcilvain, Pat Naney, Arthur Nicholl, Marie Pickett, Fred Powell, Mary Raser, Lillian Roberts, Judy Rodriguez, Ella Sharpe, Dorothy Shelton, Marjorie Sorenson, Kathryn Thompson, Cecilia Trejo, and Joe Tyra.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 26, 2006    Our Third Thursday Talk, featuring Caesar Jaime, investigator with the Bandera County Sheriff's Department covering fraudulent schemes and ID theft was a huge success. Watch the column for information on the November topic. It is our goal to present topics that will be of interest to those in attendance.     Don't forget our Halloween party to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 31, at 11:30 a.m. Not only are we having a pumpkin-carving contest, but you will also be entertained by music provided by Irvin Stevens. Order a meal by 9 a.m. Tuesday, and have lunch with us. The lunch menu for Oct. 31 is goul-losh, sauted squash, green peas, bread, milk and cake. The pumpkin-carving contest promises to be great fun. Join as a team or enter on your own. We'll have real pumpkins available for carving, donated by Beverly Powell from the Methodist Church. Bring your favorite "ooo-y" gooey, dreadfully scrumptious dessert of your choice to share. And by all means, don't forget to wear your costume!!!     Do you have time on your hands? Would you like to be of help in the community? Volunteering is a wonderful way of staying busy and helping others in your community. The Silver Sage is always looking for volunteers! Just a few hours of your time during the week is a tremendous help to our center. We need "receptionists" to help answer phones and greet people as they come into the center. Call 796-4969 and inquire about how you might help?     Class planning for ceramics is underway. If you're interested, please contact the center and register for upcoming classes. There are a variety of activities being held at the Silver Sage Corral: bingo, dominoes, bridge, weaving, tapestry, quilting, and painting, to mention a few. Stop by and pick up a monthly calendar of events.     Election Day-November 7: will you be out of town, are you homebound, are you 65 years of age or older? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you can vote early by mail-in ballot. To access a mail-in ballot, a website has been created – www.friendsvote.org/BallotByMail/. This is an effort to assist voters in getting a mail-in ballot. The online tool allows a person to look up their name, and with a simple click of the mouse, you can print out the application already filled out and ready for your signature. The center has on-line capabilities and will assist any seniors who are interested in getting their mail-in ballots printed and ready for signature. Please contact us at 796-4969 if you wish to have a ballot prepared.     Friday Night Jam Session: Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center. If you love to listen to music, this is the event for you. Local talent, featuring Matt Hesley never ceases to present a wonderful program. Plan to come, bring a friend, and share in a good time. There is no admission charge, but donations are always welcome. Refreshments are provided by those wish to bring their favorite snack or dessert to share with the group.     A wonderful way to end the column is to extend birthday wishes to those celebrating their special day from Oct. 16 through Oct. 31: Archie Ackerman, John Adams, Peggy Araiza, Stella Armstrong, Olga Bolduc, Melwyn Borgens, Barbara Brischetto, David Bronson, Clay Bumpass, Mike Casebolt.Roanne Center, Joan Chadwick, John Collins, Mary Conley, Florence Ellis, Roberta Fusco, Larry Hall, Adren H eisler, Doris Holt, Dominick Ionnarone, Mary Kirkpatrick, Howard Loomis, Liliana Lovisa, Jacob Masengale, William Matheny, Jo Jody McCulley, Frank Montague III, Jane Moore, Lenna Newman, Cindi Rackley, Ruth Reeves, Mark Rister, Tekla Roberts, John Sellberg, Joyce Sellberg, Terry Shaw, Lynne Sowerby, V. Springfield, Betty Suddath, Craig Tips, Beverly Wiese, Dorene Willliams, and Kay Wilson.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 19, 2006    Election Day-November 7: will you be out of town, are you homebound, are you 65 years of age or older? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you can vote early by mail-in ballot. To access a mail-in ballot, a website has been created – www.friendsvote.org/BallotByMail/.     This is an effort to assist voters in getting a mail-in ballot. The online tool allows a person to look up their name, and with a simple click of the mouse, you can print out the application already filled out and ready for your signature. The center has on-line capabilities and will assist any seniors who are interested in getting their mail-in ballots printed and ready for signature. Please contact us at 798-4969 if you wish to have a ballot prepared.     We had an unexpected large turnout for the flu vaccinations. Unfortunately, there was only enough vaccine to treat the first 65 people. We apologize for the inconvenience to those unable to get their flu shots.     However, another date will be set for those individuals to get their vaccinations. If you will contact the Acute Care Center in Boerne, 830-249-9995 and have your name and phone number included on the list for the flu shots when they return to the Silver Sage Corral, they will contact you by phone and let you know the date and time you should be at the center to receive your flu shot. This will assure that you will not be inconvenienced again. Come join us for the Third Thursday Talk, featuring a speaker discussing areas of interest relating to our community. Caesar Jaime, Investigator with the Bandera County Sheriff's Department will cover fraudulent schemes and ID theft Oct. 19. There have been recent cases in the area and Jaime felt it timely to discuss these topics. No one is immune to being a victim, and becoming educated regarding these fraudulent practices and ID theft can aid us in avoiding them.     The program will start at 11 a.m., and will last approximately 15-20 minutes followed by a question and answer period. If you would like to join us for lunch, please contact the center by 9 a.m. Thursday, to order a meal.     Plan to attend our annual "Fall into Quilting" quilt show on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 22, from noon until 4 p.m.. We have received over 60 entries for judging. All entries will be displayed at the quilt show for the oooh's and ahhh's of the public. Admission to the quilt show is free and we hope you'll plan to drop by and see all of the beautiful quilts, wall hangings, and wearable art.     Tickets for the raffle quilt are $1 each or $5 for 6, and the drawing for the raffle quilt will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. The winner does not have to be present to win. All proceeds from ticket sales are donated to the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center.     It's birthday celebration time again. The October birthday luncheon will be held Tuesday, Oct. 22, beginning at 11:30 a.m. We're featuring chili and cornbread accompanied by all of the delicious side dishes/desserts prepared by those in attendance. If you're birthday is in October, the treat is on us.     Have you created the face for your pumpkin? Plan to join us Tuesday, Oct. 31, to celebrate Halloween, and display your talent for carving a pumpkin face. We'll have real pumpkins available for carving , donated by Beverly Powell from the Methodist Church. Be a kid again and come join us for a fun-filled event.     Volunteers needed!! Just a few hours of your time during the week is a tremendous help to our Center. We need "receptionists" to help answer phones and greet people as they come into the Center. Call 796-4969 and inquire about how you might help?     Thrift Store thrives! We are continually receiving donated merchandise and have quite an assortment. Stop by and see what's "new" in our inventory. You might even think about becoming a volunteer. Store hours are 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. However, lack of volunteer workers often results in the store being closed. If you think it might be something you'd enjoy, call the Silver Sage at 796-4969.     We would like to extend thanks to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country for awarding a grant to the Bandera County Community on Aging/Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center. It's the support of organizations like the Community Foundation that allow our center to continue as an active and integral part of Bandera County.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 12, 2006    With the flu season fast approaching, we are offering on-site flu shots Friday, Oct. 13, to folks in our community. If you're covered by Medicare, the shots are free, but you must have your Medicare card with you. For those not on Medicare, there will be a charge of $25. Come to the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center from from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.     Golfers, now's the time to register for the Four-Man Scramble Golf Tournament to be held this Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Flying L Golf Club. The registration fee is $70 and includes green fees, golf cart, lunch, fun and prizes given for hole in one, longest drive, closest to the pin and longest putt. We have a variety of auction items for our silent auction. Our area is scheduled to have cooler weather, to make golfing even more enjoyable.     Registrations will be accepted through Oct. 13 and if you make a last minute decision to play on Saturday, you can register at the Flying L Golf Club at 8:00am. Tee time will be 9 a.m.     Lisa Chandler will be accepting the registration forms at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969 through Friday, or at the Flying L Saturday at 8 a.m. It's bingo time again! Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Oct. 17, and bring a friend. For those of you who love to play bingo, we guarantee a good time and fun prizes. The cost is extremely reasonable at $5 for eight cards, each card having six games. The fun begins at 12:30 p.m. If you'd like to come for lunch prior to bingo, call the center before 9 a.m. to order a meal.     Caesar Jaime, investigator with the Bandera County Sheriff's Department, will discuss fraudulent schemes and ID theft Thursday, Oct. 19. There have been recent cases in the area. No one is immune to being a victim. Becoming educated regarding fraudulent practices and ID theft can aid us in avoiding them.     The program will start at 11 a.m., and will last approximately 15-20 minutes followed by a question and answer period. If you would like to join us for lunch, please contact the Center by 9 a.m. to order a meal.     The Third Thursday Talk is a community service to present information and education and features a speaker discussing areas of interest relating to our community.     Plan to attend our annual "Fall into Quilting" quilt show Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 22, from noon until 4 p.m. The drawing for the raffle quilt, currently on display at the Silver Sage Corral, will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. The winner does not have to be present to win. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six, available either at the center or during the quilt show.     Admission is free and we hope you'll plan to drop by and see all of the beautiful quilts, wall hangings, and wearable art. If you are interested in entering an item in the quilt show, entry forms are available at the center. There is a $5 fee for each entry. The center will be serving lunch both days. If you have questions concerning booths for vendors, entries for the quilt show, or donations for the sew shop, please contact Lisa Tucker at 510-4138.     The month of October brings mental images of colorful fall leaves, cooler weather, and Halloween. Plan to join us Tuesday, Oct. 31, to celebrate Halloween, and enter our pumpkin carving contest. Now's the time to create that unusual Halloween face, sharpen your favorite knife, and prepare to carve a real pumpkin. Plans are currently under way for the party as well as the carving.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Oct. 5, 2006    Treat yourself to a foot massage. Come join us at the Foot Clinic Thursday, Oct. 5, at 10 a.m. There’s no charge, just bring a towel and prepare to sit back and relax.     Come join us at the Silver Sage for breakfast Friday, Oct. 6, from 7-9 a.m. We have a variety of selections including breakfast tacos with eggs, potatoes, bacon, sausage and cheese; biscuits and gravy, and pancakes and sausage. The prices are very reasonable. If you can’t stay for breakfast, fax in your to-go order at 796-8970 and pick it up anytime between 7-9 a.m.     The Silver Sage Corral will be closed Monday, Oct. 9, for Columbus Day, and no meals will be served.     We are offering on-site flu shots. The shots will be done at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center Friday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you’re covered by Medicare, the shots are free, but you must have your Medicare card with you. For those not on Medicare, there will be a charge of $25.     If you’re a golfer, and haven’t signed up for our 4-Man Scramble Golf Tournament to be held Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Flying L, now’s the time to make that call and register. The registration fee is $70 and includes green fees, golf cart, lunch, fun and prizes. If you would like to donate silent auction items, or be a sponsor, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral at 796-4969.     Calling all quilters: our annual "Fall into Quilting" quilt show is right around the corner. Plan to drop by and see all of the beautiful quilts, wall hangings, and wearable art crafted by local quilters. The scheduled dates are Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 22, from noon until 4 p.m. The drawing for the raffle quilt, currently on display at the Silver Sage Corral, will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. If you don’t have your tickets, they are on sale at the Center or you can buy them at the quilt show. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six. The winner does not have to be present to win. If you are interested in entering an item in the quilt show, entry forms are available at the Center. The Center will be serving lunch both days. There is no admission charge to the quilt show, so come join us. If you have questions concerning booths for vendors, entries for the quilt show, or donations for the sew shop, please contact Lisa Tucker at 510-4138..     Another month for birthday wishes extended to those celebrating their birthdays from Oct. 1–15: Dorothy Baker, Leona Brandt, Carol Browne, Johnette Brown, Lillian Breshers, Dorothy Callahan, Nela Capps, Wright Carlisle, James Cody, David Cooke, Billy Craddock, Joseph Correa, Gladys Flores, Annie Gibben, Jimmie Gibbs, Brenda John, Willard Graves, Cindy Harrington, Alvin Harris, Sandra B. Holmes, Janet Kelley, Doris Keslar, H.H. Koenig, Danie Lough, Esther Maldonado, Ruth Meador, Archie Mercer, Glenn Morganstern, Peter Nelson, Patricia Pearson, Karen L. Queen, James Reeves, Wanda Roach, Mary Scheele, Mary Schultz, Ralph Smith, Roderick Shelton, David Sollinger, Richard Stevens, Kathy Teich, George Theaux, B. Vanderford, Marlen Vonoverbeke, Jim Wilson, and Opal Word.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Sept. 21, 2006    New Fax Number: The Silver Sage Corral has a new fax number: 830-796-8970. The number went into effect Friday, Sept. 8.     Olga Buldoc, a well known local artist, is instructing oil painting classes that began Monday, Sept. 11. It's not too late to register. Come have fun, and learn to express your creativity through painting. Please call the Center if you are interested in registering for the class.     This is the last chance to sign up for the trip to Kinder, La., scheduled for Thursday and Friday, Sept. 21-22. Your reservation and fee for the trip should be at the center by Wednesday, Sept. 20. Call the center at 796-4969 now and reserve your space. The cost is $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Included in the price is round trip bus, one night stay at the Best Western and a $23 coupon that can be redeemed for cash or food. Pick-up spots for travelers: Silver Sage Corral in Bandera, Rock Church in Pipe Creek and Walmart in Boerne. Departure is 6 a.m. from the Silver Sage Thursday and return is 11 p.m. to the Silver Sage Friday.     Plan to join us for the monthly birthday luncheon Tuesday, Sept. 26, at 11:30 a.m. The menu featuring Italian cuisine will include spaghetti with meat sauce, salad and green beans. Those in attendance always have a wonderful time, enjoying the meal and socializing. If your birthday is in September, the treat is on us. If your birthday isn't in September, we suggest that you bring a covered dish or dessert to share.     We would like to thank The Gingerbread House for donating a wonderful assortment of items for our Thrift Store. We have also received lots of additional merchandise to add to our inventory. One of the items is a new eight-place setting of Mikasa stoneware, including three serving pieces. We are also featuring the $3 bag sale: fill a plastic bag with all the clothing you can put in it for only $3. You'll find our prices are extremely reasonable. Operating hours for the Thrift Store are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through 3 p.m. However, there are times the store will be closed due to lack of volunteers. We're in need of volunteers to run the Thrift Store every other Saturday.     If you think you might be interested in helping us out, call the center at 830-796-4969.     October is a month filled with lots of activities sponsored by the Silver Sage Corral. Not only can you have lots of fun, but you are helping support the Center.     Four-Man Scramble Golf Tournament     Golfers, plan to join us for a day full of fun and prizes Saturday, Oct. 14, at the Flying L Golf Club for our Second Annual Four-Man Scramble Golf Tournament. If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers, or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral, 830-796-4969.     Quilt Show     "Fall into Quilting" quilt show to be held Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21-22. This is an annual fund-raiser held at the center, sponsored by the Heritage Study Group and features a judged quilt show. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of each category. There will be a sew shop featuring all sorts of donated sewing/quilting fabrics, kits and notions, and vendors with a variety of merchandise. In addition, the Center will serve lunch both days. Please contact quilt show chair Lisa Tucker, 830-510-4138 if you have questions concerning booths for vendors, entries for the quilt show or donations for the sew shop.     Surprise Activity     Who would you become if you could change your identify?

Silver Sage Corral sponsors golf tournament Published Sept. 14, 2006    The Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center will host the second annual Silver Sage Corral Four-Man Scramble Golf Tournament Saturday, Oct. 14, at Flying L Ranch. This is one of the Silver Sage Corral's major fundraisers for the year.     The Silver Sage Corral is a non-profit organization, the sole site in Bandera County that administers the Meals on Wheels and in-house nutrition programs. They also offer recreational activities and health-related programs. Their success depends on the acquisition of grants, the generous support of local businesses and donations from supporters.     Additional funds are needed this year to change from out-sourcing meals to preparing meals at the senior center.     Sponsors are needed for the Four-Scramble Golf Tournament. The following are ideas for supporting the event: sponsor one of more of the 18 holes; golf tournament shirts; small gift bags for tournament participants; a hole-in-one prize; advertising expenses; providing give-away prizes; donating an item for the raffle or silent auction and corporate sponsorships.     Donations are tax-deductible.     Prizes will be awarded in the tournament: $600 for first place; $400 for second place; $280 for third place and additional prizes for longest drive, longest putt, closest to the pin and hole-in-one. The cost is $70 per player.     For more information, call 830-796-4969.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Sept. 14, 2006    The Silver Sage Corral has a new fax number: 830-796-8970. The number became effective Friday, Sept. 8.     Our Sunday Social held on the second Sunday of each month, will be postponed until further notice. Check our weekly column or call the center to find out when it will resume. A new season of art classes began on Monday, Sept. 11. It’s not too late to register. Come have fun, and learn to express your creativity through painting. Olga Bolduc, a well known local artist, is the instructor for the class and takes great pride in the success of her class participants. Please call the center if you are interested in registering for the class.     Calling all bingo players – come join us for our monthly bingo extravaganza on Tuesday, Sept. 19. Pay $5 for 8 cards, with 6 games each and with any luck, you’ll win at least one prize. Bingo begins at 12:30 pm. It’s a perfect opportunity for you to join us for lunch at 11:30 before bingo.     The trip to Kinder, scheduled for Thursday and Friday, Sept. 21-22, is fast approaching. With fall upon us, it’s a perfect time to take a get-away trip. Call now and reserve your room. We have lots of vacancies, and if we don’t have a minimum of 40 travelers, we will have to cancel the trip until another time. Contact your friends and give us a call at the Silver Sage Center - 796-4969 and have your name put on our list. The cost will be $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Included in the price is round trip coach, one night stay at the Best Western and a $23 coupon that can be redeemed for cash or food. Pick-up spots for travelers: Silver Sage Corral in Bandera, Rock Church in Pipe Creek and Walmart in Boerne. Departure is 6 a.m. Thursday and return is 11 p.m. Friday.     WE NEED GOLFERS! Participants will have a day full of fun, golf and prizes at our Second Annual 4-Man Scramble golf tournament. A golf cart with an assortment of drinks will be following the players around the links. Instead of trophies, we’re giving fantastic prizes donated by local merchants and surrounding golf courses. If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969. Your support of the tournament as a player or a sponsor has a positive effect on the operation of the Center.     The “Fall into Quilting” quilt show will be held Oct. 21-22. This is an annual fund-raiser held at the center, sponsored by the Heritage Study Group and features a judged quilt show, a sew shop featuring all sorts of donated sewing/quilting fabrics, kits and notions, and vendors with a variety of merchandise. In addition the Center will serve lunch both days. Please contact quilt show Chair Lisa Tucker, (830)510-4138 if you have questions concerning booths for vendors, entries for the quilt show, or donations for the sew shop.     Our Thrift Store continues to receive wonderful donations from individuals and estates throughout the area. Stop by and browse the store. Our prices are extremely reasonable and you just never know what you might find. Our normal operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through 3 p.m. However, there are times the store will be closed due to lack of volunteers. If you want to confirm the store is open before you make a trip, call the center at 796-4969. Donating items is a great way to “clean house” and help support the Silver Sage Senior Activity Center. If you have items to donate, but no way of getting them to us, call the Center and we can make arrangement to pick them up. A tax deduction letter can be provided for all donations.     Volunteers to the Rescue!! The Silver Sage is always in the need of volunteers at the front desk, helping with in-house meals and meals-on-wheels, Thrift Store assistance and fund raisers. If you would like to spend a day a week, every two weeks or even once a month, any help is always appreciated. Contact the Silver Sage Corral at 796-4969 to volunteer.     Become a kid again -surprise event in October –- stay turned to our weekly column for updates!     We would like to wish a Happy Birthday to those celebrating birthdays Sept. 15-30: Juanita Baker, Don Ball, William Behrens, Margie Bratton, Cyndee Chandler, Gordon Coker, Guadalupe Cruz, Betty Dawes, Jim Durst, Gene Fee, Bob Fillpot, Joan Gase, Patricia Godkin, Gerhardt Herbolsheimer, Carol Hilton, Judy Hooper, Alice Hubbard, Karen Johnson, Marlene Johnson, Murray Lestourgeon, Thomas McGarity, Jack Mackey, Marjorie Mayer, Robert Minegar, Bernice Morgan, Elsie Morgan, Travis Morgan, Sr., Lee Newman, Georgia Nuckles, Leonard O’Hara, Jack Pearson, Mary Portman, Erma Potter, Rita Recker, Leisha Rister, Richard Roberts, Gilbert Scheele, Douglass Schultz, Ilene Stephenson, Kin Stokes, Ricky R. Walker, Joyce Wilson, Mahin Witkowski, Bruce Woodall, Sr., Ruth Woodhul, and Barbara Young.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Sept. 7, 2006    Don’t forget our regularly scheduled foot clinic at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 7. The clinic is free – all you need to bring is a towel, your aching tired feet and prepare to enjoy the relaxing massage. What a way to treat your feet after the holiday weekend. It’s almost guaranteed that after all of the TLC, you’ll leave the Center with a smile on your face. For those of you who like to plan ahead, the foot clinic is held on the first Thursday of each month. Mark it on your calendar and plan to join us.     You have less than three weeks to register for the Kinder, LA trip scheduled for Sept. 21-22. The cost will be $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Included in the price is round trip coach, one night stay at the Best Western and a $23 coupon that can be redeemed for cash or food. Pick-up spots for travelers: Silver Sage Corral in Bandera, Rock Church in Pipe Creek and Walmart in Boerne. Departure is 6 a.m. Thursday and return is 11 p.m. Friday. We need a minimum of 40 travelers, so contact your friends and give us a call If you’re interested, call the Silver Sage Center at 796-4969 and have your name put on our list.     Golf Tournament – Oct. 14 – Flying L Golf Club – Silver Sage Corral golfing event - the center is accepting golfer registration and donations for our second Annual Four-Man Scramble Golf Tournament, to be held on Oct. 14 at the Flying L Golf Club. If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969. This is a terrific way to have a day full of golf and fun and help support the Senior Center. It can’t get much better than that.     Quilt Show Preparation Begins: October brings another major fund raiser for the Center – the annual “Fall in to Quilting” quilt show, be held at the Silver Sage Corral on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21-22. This event is sponsored by the Heritage Study Group and features a judged quilt show, a sew shop featuring all sorts of donated sewing/quilting fabrics, kits and notions, and vendors with a variety of merchandise. In addition the Center will serve lunch both days. Please contact quilt show Chair Lisa Tucker, (830)510-4138 if you have questions concerning booths for vendors, entries for the quilt show, or donations for the sew shop. Our Thrift Store has been a tremendous success due to the wonderful donations received from individuals and estates throughout the area. It’s a great way to “clean house” and help support the Silver Sage Senior Activity Center. If you have items to donate, but no way of getting them to us, call the center and we can make arrangement to pick them up. A tax deduction letter can be provided for all donations.     The Silver Sage is always in the need of volunteers at the front desk, helping with in-house meals and meals-on-wheels, Thrift Store assistance and fund raisers. If you would like to spend a day a week, every two weeks or even once a month, any help is always appreciated. Contact the Silver Sage Corral at 796-4969 to volunteer.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 31, 2006    Thank you to those who helped us run the booth at the Old Settlers Gathering at Mansfield Park Friday, Aug. 25. Although the weather was a little on the hot side, we managed to keep our cool and have lots of fun serving our customers. We also want to thank all of the terrific bakers who donated desserts. We had a wonderful selection of mouth-watering desserts to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. The success of the center’s fund-raisers are directly related to the participation of the volunteers.     The center will be hosting a Diabetes Clinic held Thursday, Aug. 31, at 10 a.m. It is expected to last approximately two hours. The informative session will be presented by Sarah Villega, RN, from Methodist Health Care Diabetes Education. Please call Methodist Healthcare Health line 1-800-333-7333 to reserve your place. There is no fee.     Friday, Sept. 1, is our monthly breakfast, and what a perfect way to start the holiday weekend. Make your selection from our menu and leave the cooking and serving to the Silver Sage Corral. Select from breakfast tacos, biscuits and gravy, pancakes and sausage or bacon, scrambled eggs, and hash brown potatoes. The prices are right, the food is delicious, and best of all, the proceeds all help support the Silver Sage Corral!     The Silver Sage Corral Thrift Store will have a booth Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 2-3, during the Celebrate Bandera weekend. We’ve selected lots of items that we’re sure will be things you can’t live without. We’ll have a section devoted to Halloween and Christmas holiday items. There will also be a variety of other items for the curious shopper. Because we will be operating the booth on Saturday, the Thrift Store will be closed. If you think you would be interested in helping us run the booth, please contact the Silver Sage Corral and leave your name, and the time most convenient for you to work.     The center will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, and there will be no meals served or delivered. For those receiving the home-delivered meals, plan ahead and order an extra meal for the Monday holiday.     Our popular free foot clinic will be held on Thursday, Sept. 7, starting at 10 a.m. Bring a towel and prepare to relax with a wonderful foot massage including nail trimming. We can almost guarantee that you will walk away with a spring in your step.     Don’t forget to register for the Kinder, La., trip scheduled for Sept. 21-22. The cost will be $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Included in the price is round trip coach, one night stay at the Best Western and a $23 coupon that can be redeemed for cash or food. Pick-up spots for travelers: Silver Sage Corral, Rock Church in Pipe Creek and Wal-mart in Boerne. Departure is 6 a.m. Thursday and return is 11 p.m. Friday. We need a minimum of 40 travelers, so contact your friends and give us a call If you’re interested, call the Silver Sage Center at 796-4969 and have your name put on our list.     Silver Sage Corral golfing event - the Center is accepting golfer registration and donations for our Second Annual 4-Man Scramble Golf Tournament, to be held Oct. 14 at the Flying L Golf Club. If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969.     We’ve had some inquiries about learning to line dance, but need an instructor. Let us know if this might be something you’d be interested in by contacting the Center at 796-4969, and speak with Lisa Chandler.     Being a volunteer can be a truly rewarding experience. The center is always in need of volunteers to help out in a variety of areas: front desk, helping with in-house meals and meals on wheels, and thrift store assistance.     September birthday greetings to the following people who will be celebrating their birthdays from Sept. 1-15: Jane Amberson, William Anderson, Edward Autry, Barbara Bartkoviak, William Behrens, Ingrid Blumenthal, Patricia M. Brown, Gwyn Claxton, Helen Dalton, Jose DeLeon, Dorothy Denton, Daryle Gibbens, Robert Graham, Robert Gowan, Delores Hall, Lola Heinen, Mary James, Betty Jones, Joseph Koenig, Lisa Mares, Lula McWhorter, Sarah Morgan, Mary Munafo, Vera Nichols, Marilyn Stubbeman, Margaret Paradee, Terry Patrick, Patsy Pogue, Erma Potter, Patricia Robbins, Verna Lee Schaefer, Douglass Schultz, Robert Sosebee, Frederick Sowerby, Jan Tallichet, Betty Thomas, Mary Waldman, Ricky R. Walker, Donna Walters, Ben Weil, Cheryl Wildfond, James Wilson, and Lee Yelton.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 24, 2006    Every birthday luncheon is always a success and this month was no exception. Not only was the food and camaraderie outstanding, it was an opportunity for our new Executive Director, Ann Gay Bishop to meet those in attendance. If you weren’t able to attend, we invite you to stop by and meet Ms Bishop.     Thank you to all of our volunteers who attended lunch and a workshop at the Center on Wednesday, Aug. 2. We would also like to thank Fire Marshal Ralph Dresser who reviewed evacuation procedures and fire safety. Our volunteers left with not only updated information regarding their various responsibilities, but also an understanding of the importance of training in emergency situations. The Silver Sage Corral will be operating a food and drink booth at the Old Settlers Day Gathering Friday, Aug. 25, from 10 am to 8 pm at Mansfield Park. The location of the booth will be in the shade near the pavilion at Mansfield Park. We need dessert donations of cookies, brownies, or easy-to-eat desserts not requiring refrigeration. If you would like to make a dessert, please bring it to the center by Thursday morning, Aug. 24.     Friday Night Jam Session: Aug. 25 at 6:30 pm in the Great Hall of the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center. If you love to listen to music, this is the event for you. Local talent, featuring Matt Hesley never ceases to present a wonderful program. Plan to come, bring a friend, and share in a good time. There is no admission charge, but donations are always welcome. Refreshments are provided by those wish to bring their favorite snack or dessert to share with the group.     There will be a Diabetes Clinic held at the Center Thursday, Aug. 31. If you’re interested, contact the Center and have your name included on a list for additional follow up once we receive additional information.     Friday, Sept. 1, is our monthly breakfast, and what a perfect way to start the holiday weekend. Make your selection from our menu and leave the cooking and serving to the Silver Sage Corral and sit back and enjoy your meal. Select from breakfast tacos, biscuits and gravy, pancakes and sausage or bacon, scrambled eggs, and hash brown potatoes. The prices are right, the food is delicious, and best of all, the proceeds all help support the Silver Sage Corral!     The Silver Sage Corral Thrift Store will have a booth Saturday and Sunday, during the Celebrate Bandera weekend. Plan to stop by and see what items we are offering for sale. We’re sure there will be something you can’t live without. We need volunteers to help run the booth. If anyone would be interested, just give the Center a call and leave your name, with the day and time that would be most convenient for you to work. Holiday:     The Center will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, and there will be no meals served or delivered. For those receiving the home-delivered meals, plan ahead and order an extra meal for the Monday holiday.     Be sure to call and register for the Kinder, LA trip scheduled for Sept. 21-22. If you’re interested, call the Silver Sage Center at 796-4969 and have your name put on our list. The cost will be $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Last trip, the fee for a single room should have been $90 but in error, we only charged $60, which was quite a bargain for the individual, but a $30 loss for the Center. However, considering all that’s included, the $90 is still a bargain. We need a minimum of 40 travelers, so contact your friends and give us a call     The Stroke Prevention Health Screening Event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 11. The cost of the screening will be $45. This type of screening can be very costly in a hospital and we have an opportunity to be checked for much less. If you would like more information, or would like to register for the screening, please call 1-800-931-4772. Silver Sage Corral golfing event - the Center is accepting golfer registration and donations for our 2nd Annual 4-Man Scramble Golf Tournament, to be held Oct. 14 at the Flying L Golf Club.     If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969.     The Center is still planning to start a ceramics class in the fall – late September, early October. Before we can confirm the class, we need to know how many would consider taking the class. If you are interested, please call the Center at 798-4969 and have your name and phone number placed on the ceramics class list. We will contact you once final arrangements are made.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 17, 2006    Plan to join us for our August birthday luncheon on Tuesday, August 22, at 11:30 am. It’s not only for those with August birthdays, but for anyone looking for a wonderful meal and socializing. The menu includes Lisa’s meatloaf, with side dishes of corn and mashed potatoes and the wonderful food prepared by those attending. If your birthday is in August, the treat is on us. If your birthday isn’t in August, we suggest that you bring a covered dish or dessert to share.     We are pleased to announce that we have appointed a new Executive Director for the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center. Mrs. Ann Gay Bishop resides with her husband in the Pipe Creek area and has had extensive experience with the operation of non-profit organizations. If you haven’t already met her, the birthday luncheon would be a perfect time to stop by the Center, meet Mrs. Bishop and enjoy the luncheon.     The Silver Sage Corral will be operating a food booth at the Old Settlers Day Saturday, Aug. 25, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mansfield Park. The location of the booth will be under the pavilion at Mansfield Park. The Center is responsible for providing desserts for the bake sale. We need dessert donations of cookies, brownies, or easy-to-eat desserts not requiring refrigeration. If you would like to make a dessert, please bring it to the Center by Thursday morning, Aug. 24. We also need people to help with the sales during the day. If anyone would be interested in helping work the booth, please contact the Center. We promise lots of TLC and short work schedules.     There will be a diabetes clinic held at the center Thursday, Aug. 31. We will keep you posted as more information becomes available.     The center is in need of an 8 X 10 storage shed. If you have one available and would consider donating it to the Silver Sage Corral, please contact us at 796-4969. We will provide you with a tax form as proof of the value of the donation.     Be sure to call and register for the Kinder, LA trip scheduled for Sept. 21-22. If you’re interested, call the Silver Sage Center at 796-4969 and have your name put on our list. The cost will be $45 for a double and $90 for a single. Last trip, the fee for a single room should have been $90 but in error, we only charged $60, which was quite a bargain for the individual, but a $30 loss for the Center. However, considering all that’s included, the $90 is still a bargain. We need a minimum of 40 travelers, so contact your friends and give us a call.     Date change: The Stroke Prevention Health Screening Event, originally scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 24, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 11. Be sure to change your calendars to reflect the new date. This type of screening can be very costly in a hospital and we have an opportunity to be checked for much less. If you would like more information, or would like to register for the screening, please call 1-800-931-4772.     The center has received several registrations and donations for our Second Annual 4-Man Scramble Golf Tournament to be held on Oct. 14 at the Flying L Golf Club.     If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral: 796-4969.     Birthday Wishes go out to the following who are celebrating their special days Aug. 16 through Aug. 31:     Joseph Anderson, Barbara Baker, Elizabeth Burch, Patrick Burch, Heather Burell, David Cox, Bobbie Crider, Wilton Crider, Lloyd Darr, Catherine Deen, Barbara Deter, Gene Foerster, Evalyn Foyil, Elmer Franks, Robert Holland, Martha Johnson, Joyce Kennedy, Audrey Kierdorf, Neva King, Delbert Langford, Barbara Mackey, Jim Mathison, Dee Maxwell, Bill McDonald, James McNaire, Heinz Meissner, Lyda Morton, Eugene Neitzke, Mary Noack, Linda Peterson, Telvy Robbins, Timothy Sanchez, Patricia Schieber, Norman Scott, Alice Slinkard, Wilvie Smith, Amy Stevens, Washington Stevens, Frank Wallace, Edward Wiese, Joy Wilson, Joe Winters, and Trina Word.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 10, 2006    Don’t forget our regularly scheduled Sunday Social, held on Aug. 13 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. It’s a wonderful opportunity to join in dancing to the "golden oldies."     We always have a wonderful time and dancing is a great form of exercise! If you wish, bring a snack to share.     Don’t forget our monthly Bingo on Tuesday, Aug. 15. Come join us at 12:30 for lots of fun and prizes. $5 will buy eight cards – each card has six games. Bring a friend and try your luck!     There will be a Stroke Prevention Health Screening Event on Thursday, Aug. 24. Health Screening Specialists will be here conducting ultrasound screenings that can find out if you are at risk of stroke or vascular disease.     These tests are available to us for $45 each and discount packages are available. This type of screening can be very costly in a hospital.     This is an opportunity to be checked for much less. If you would like more information or to register for the screening please call 1-800-931-4772.     The Kinder trip was such a success, we’ve scheduled another trip. Mark your calendars: the dates are Sept. 21-22. If you’re interested, call the Silver Sage Center at 796-4969 and have your name put on our list.     Final arrangements are being made, and will be published once all of the details have been confirmed. We need a minimum of 40 travelers, so contact your friends.     New arrivals at the Thrift Store: we’ve recently had a large donation of collectibles and some antiques.     Stop by and see if anything piques your interest. We still have some of the canning jars left at extremely reasonable prices. The Store hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. However, because of our lack of volunteers, there are some days the Thrift Store may be closed.     Contact the Thrift Store at 796-3590 or the Silver Sage Corral at 796-4969 after 10 a.m. to confirm if the store will be open. We are in desperate need of volunteers to operate the Thrift Store on Fridays and alternate Saturdays. If you think you might be interested, contact the Center.     The Center is in need of an 8 X 10 storage shed. If you have one available and would consider donating it to the Silver Sage Corral, please contact us at 796-4969. We provide you with a tax form as proof of the donation.     The 2nd Annual 4-Man Scramble Golf Tournament, sponsored by the Silver Sage Corral has begun the count down for the Oct. 14 event being held at the Flying L Golf Club. If you are interested in registering for the tournament, sponsoring prizes for the golfers or donating silent auction items, please contact Lisa Chandler at the Silver Sage Corral –796-4969.     A BIG thank you to Super S Manager David Ekman for the donation of greeting cards to the Silver Sage Senior Center.     It’s truly a shame, that within our community, we have a few individuals who CONTINUE to vandalize a non-profit organization’s vehicles for a few gallons of gas, attempt stealing a battery, side mirror, or anything else that might appeal to their whims at the time. Our funds are limited, and we depend on the generosity of the community and volunteers who serve our senior citizens. We do not understand why we continue to experience vandalism; it undermines everything the Silver Sage Corral represents.     We ask that if you’re in the area during the evening, and see any unusual activity, please call the police department and report your concerns.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published Aug. 3, 2006    The Silver Sage Corral Red, White and Blue birthday luncheon held July 25 was a huge success. Our dining room was filled to capacity. We’d like to thank Bob Moore our "chef of the day" and the many able-bodied assistants. The grilled hamburgers and sausage with all the trimmings, plus the wonderful side dishes appealed to everyone’s appetite. We would like to extend a thank you to all who contributed covered dishes to compliment the meal. We also honored Betty Suddath for all of her volunteer work and participation with the Center’s activities. She will be relocating to New Braunfels to be near her daughter and before she leaves, we wanted her to know how much she is appreciated, and how much she will be missed. The birthday luncheons are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month, and everyone is invited.     Don’t forget our regularly scheduled foot clinic at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 3. The clinic is free – all you need to bring is a towel, and prepare to enjoy the relaxing massage. It can’t get much better than that. For those of you who like to plan ahead, the foot clinic is held on the first Thursday of each month. Mark it on your calendar and plan to join us.     Is breakfast your favorite meal? If so, come join us at the Silver Sage on Friday, August 4, for a delicious breakfast featuring a variety of selections including breakfast tacos with eggs, potatoes, bacon, sausage and cheese; biscuits and gravy, and pancakes and sausage. Come meet the members of the Board of Directors as they prepare and serve breakfast. The prices are very reasonable. If you can’t stay for breakfast, fax in your to-go order at 460-8545 and you can pick it up anytime between 7 and 9 a.m.     Our regularly scheduled Sunday Social will be held Aug. 13 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. for dancing and socializing. We always have a wonderful time and dancing is a great form of exercise! If you wish, bring a snack to share.     We’d like to report the trip to Kinder, LA was a gigantic success. There were 48 participants who had a wonderful time and encouraged us to schedule another trip. So, in response to their request, we have scheduled another trip for Sept. 21 and 22. We need to have at least 40 participants so pass the word to your friends. Stay tuned for more information on cost and dates.     Volunteers Needed!! If you’ve visited our Thrift Store lately and found it closed, it’s because we have no volunteers to keep it open. We need volunteers to help on Thursdays, Fridays and alternate Saturdays. The hours are 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Contact the Silver Sage Corral at 796-4969 to volunteer.     Regardless of how "old" we are, birthdays should never be forgotten – it’s part of our identity. Happy Birthday wishes for those celebrating birthdays from August 1 – 15:     Evie Angell, William Araiza, Della Bailey, Linda Bratton, Paul Chevalier, Grace Darr, Dorothy Ferris, Jay Field, Guy Fusco, Addie Garsea, Ellen Garver, Marie Glasscock, Keith Gordon, Beverly Herbolsheimer, Tom Heywood, Helen Hicks, Gary Johnston, Mable Kleibrink, Alex Kustra, David Lestourgeon, Arthur Lich, Vita Lopez, Cindy Masengale, Yvonne Miller, Robert Moore, Jacque Morrow, Milton Noack, Annette Nowell, Linda Parsons, Wheeler Petty, Guy Pickett, Robert Ruble, Cecelia Schmidtke, Robert Shaw, Susan Shaw, Avis Smith, Donald Stephenson, Merrilee Swinford, Linda Taylor-Scott, Margaret Waller and Genave Wilson.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published June 22, 2006    The count-down begins...the trip to Kinder, La. scheduled for July 20-21 is just around the corner. Don’t miss out on the fun. Limited space is available–sign up today. The cost of $45 per person or $60 single includes round trip bus fare, one night’s lodging at the Best Western, a continental breakfast, and a $23 coupon that is redeemable for either cash or food. What a deal! Stop by the Silver Sage Corral or call 830-796-4969 to sign up or get more information. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled trip.     If you haven’t paid a visit to the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, you might not be aware that in addition to serving lunch-time meals, we offer a vast selection of activities including bingo, bridge, dominoes, walking and exercise, yoga, quilting, weaving and tapestry, and oil painting. If any of these peak your interest, contact the Center for more information. We’re here to serve our senior citizens and if there are classes you would like to see included, we welcome your suggestions.     Weaving classes are taking a summer break and will resume in the fall.     The Friday Night Jam Session will be held on June 23 from 6-9 p.m., headed by Matt Hesley and featuring local talent. Come join us at the Silver Sage Corral and we can promise you a toe-tappin,’ footstompin’ good time. Bring a friend, and if you wish a snack or dessert to share, and come join in an evening of music, dancing and socializing.     Did you know the Silver Sage recycles aluminum cans? If you would like to help the Center and the environment, save those aluminum cans and drop them by the Silver Sage. And while you’re there, be sure to stop in so we can thank you for your support.     Happy Birthday and many more to Noel Goodloe, Mickie Towers, Evelyn Wyatt, Stanley Johnson, Tommy Schultz, William Cornelison, Gail Hord, Susan Jennen, Kay Wilmot, Adele Murphy, Victor Sanders, Linda Shaw and Vera Smith, Kenneth Thompson, Earline Lindig, Louise Liebold, Ottie Neitzke, Chris Henderson, James Stovall, Robert Berlin and Olivia Schuiteman.     Our June birthday luncheon/pot luck will be held on Tuesday, June 27 at 11:30 featuring chicken tetrazini, squash casserole, and garlic bread. Bring a side dish and come join us. The only requirement: you must have to attend is–an appetite.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published June 15, 2006    Once again we have teamed up with Don Ball, of Si Texas Tours and scheduled a trip to Kinder, La. The coach bus will depart from the Silver Sage Corral on July 20 at 6 a.m. and return on July 21 at approximately 11 p.m. The cost is $45 per person for double occupancy and $60 for single occupancy. This includes round trip bus fare, 1 night stay at the Best Western, a continental breakfast and a $23 coupon that can be redeemed for cash or food. You can't beat the price or the fun. Come by the Silver Sage Corral and sign up today. Limited seating is available so sign up early! If you are unable to come by, just call 830-796-4969 and we will be glad to put your name on the list.     There seems to be some confusion about the cost of our meals that we serve in our dining room and deliver to our Meals On Wheels participants. Recently the suggested donation for the meals was increased to $4.25 per meal. This is merely a suggested donation. If you cannot afford $4.25 per meal, we request that you pay what you can afford. If you have stopped receiving meals due to the suggested donation increase, I hope this clarifies our position and that you will reconsider your decision and join us again for one of our meal programs. Call by 9 a.m. and place your order. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Laura at 830-796-4969.     The Silver Sage Corral Thrift Shop is still in need of a volunteer to work at the store every other Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The store is located in the perfect location and has lots of customers and repeat customers. This is a great way to meet members of the community and lunch is on us. Every Thursday is clothes bag day. For $3 you can stuff as many clothes as you can into a Wal-mart size shopping bag. There is a huge variety of sizes from children to extra large adults. Donations are always accepted for the thrift shop. To make arrangements for pick up, call 796- 4969. The Thrift Shop is located in the strip mall on SH 16 south and is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday thru Saturday.     A special thank you goes to Jerry and Anna DeGroot for sharing their beautiful and tasty garden goodies.     Happy Birthday wishes and many more to Evelyn Jilek, Robert Lewis, Mary Smith, Georgia Mae Erfurt, Lois Buxkemper, Mona Rollison, Alfred Anderwald and Clifford Herbst.     The winner of last month's birthday luncheon flamboyant costume contest was Ethel Fitzgerald. Congratulations Ethel! She received a gift certificate for dinner for two compliments of Herrera's Restaurant y' Cantina. Thank you Herrera's for your continued support!

TRIAD to meet June 15 Published June 8, 2006    Bandera County Sheriff Weldon Tucker announced that the next TRIAD meeting will be held on Thursday, June 15, at 2 p.m. at the Silver Sage Adult Activity Center.     “As new sheriff, I look forward to meeting you,” Tucker said. “Please bring your ideas and concerns on how to better serve the elderly of our county.     “If you cannot attend, please arrange for another representative of your group or organization to attend.”

Do you have a plan for your loved ones? Contributed Published May 11, 2006    Give the loving gift of preparedness to those you love. If you have not considered inheritance planning, it is not to late.     Linda Murdock, a representative of the Texas Methodist Foundation, will present, "Putting Your House in Order," a seminar for those who are getting older. Included in the seminar is a workbook to guide you in making important decisions.     Murdock will discuss requirements for a valid will and other estate planning tools. The workbook provides helpful information about the needed paperwork including samples of a living will.     The presentation will be Thursday, June 1, at 7 p.m. at Lakehills United Methodist Church. To ensure enough workbooks are prepared, please contact Wesley Nurse Kathy Bates at 830-751-2121 by Sunday, May 29, if you wish to attend.

Did you have ancestors from Kerr County? Kerr 150 Committee to honor county residents 90 and older Contributed Published March 9, 2006    The committee planning Kerr County's 150th birthday celebration is seeking residents 90 and older for special recognition at the courthouse on April 7.     Chairman and former Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. urges men and women born in 1916 or earlier -- or residents who know of anyone who qualifies -- to contact Clarabelle Snodgrass at 830-895-3022. Herring notes that the invitation extends to anyone who will turn 90 this year. Nursing homes, churches and other organizations in Kerrville, Hunt, Ingram, the Divide, Mountain Home and Center Point and in the Cypress Creek, Turtle Creek and Camp Verde areas are being asked to help locate and register those eligible by March 15.     There is no registration fee.     The committee plans to recognize these long-time residents after an appearance by Gov. Rick Perry.     The governor is expected at the courthouse around noon on April 7.     Wearing period clothing is appropriate, but not mandatory, Herring says.     The courthouse ceremonies will fall on the second day of the four-day celebration. Other events will include a parade with marching bands, floats and vehicles from this area and San Antonio, a fashion show, dance exhibitions and other live entertainment in Louise Hays Park and at the star in the pavement at Earl Garrett and Water Streets. Later in the month, the Symphony of the Hills will perform a commemorative work by composer Carold Nunez, commissioned by the orchestra as its contribution to the Sesquicentennial. The music will be part of the program as the Symphony concludes its 2005-6 season on April 27 at the Cailloux Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Kerrville.     Contacts:     Clarabelle Snodgrass, 830-895-3022 Joe Herring Jr., 830-257-7242 or joe@herringprinting.com.

Second Sunday Socials to begin DANCE, VISIT AND ENJOY Published March 2, 2006    Join us in the afternoon each 2nd Sunday of the month from 3-6 at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center.     Great songs for dancing, wonderful songs to listen to, music you haven't heard in a long time and some you haven't heard at all; 200 watts of great, soft country sounds. A suggested donation of $2 per person may be left at the door. These donations will assist with building utilities and operations. Bring finger foods or sweets if you like. Soft drinks can be purchased from the vending machine. Coffee will be provided.     The first Second Sunday Social will be March 12. For more information call 830-796-4969.

Highlights from SILVER SAGE CORRAL Published March 9, 2006    The Second Sunday Social is back! Come to the Silver Sage Corral on March 12 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. and join in the fun. There will be music for dancing or just listening to. Bring a snack to share, if you want to. A suggested donation of $2 will be accepted in the donation bucket at the door.     The rising cost of auto insurance…what can you do to reduce your rates. You can attend the AARP Driver Safety Course on March 14 and March 15 from noon until 4 p.m. at the Silver Sage Corral. You must attend both days to receive a certificate. The course is open to all ages. You do NOT have to sign up for the course. This course cannot be used for ticket dismissal.     Kinder, La bound! If you signed up for the trip, don't forget your money is due by March 17. There is still space available for one man and one woman. The coach bus will leave the Silver Sage Corral at 6 a.m. sharp on March 23 and will return at approximately 11p.m. on March 24. A small cooler with drinks and snacks can be taken on the bus. You will receive your $23 coupon when you arrive at the casino. For furthe