You have to see this art display -- spectacular!

Friends, the first arTexas was an overwhelming success.  The art was absolutely breath-taking; some of the very best in Texas.  Here are a few pictures that will encourage you to visit the Art Display in the Civic Center through 23 October.

A room full of people with some inspiring Art

And, when it was announced that an art piece won a ribbon . . . .

there was much excitement!

Tyler Fletcher was the emcee and he was superb.

The winner of "Best in the Show" was 25.  "When I was in the 8th grade, my teacher told me I was the worst artist in the class. I have learned that anyone can be an artist if they want it bad enough."

"The arTexas committee was the best.  To them belong the honor for their commitment, dedication, and love of art.

As one who has lived in Salado and loves art:

"This is a superb art display."

Thank you artists and visitors.  

VR/Skip

Your Village in 3 minutes, 7 October, 2015

Friends,

1.  arTexas, Reception tomorrow, 8 October, 6 P.M., Civic Center

     This committee has planned and produced a most amazing event.  From nothing, they raised $9000 all of which will be given as money for the best art in various category.  In fact, one of the committee members won $500 for their art and gave it back to be given to other contestants.  Over 111 pieces of art has been entered into this competition.  Some of the best artist in Texas have entered.  This is no small-time event.  It is being talked about across Texas.  This is a Salado-proud competition that deserves every citizen in Salado to see and enjoy.  It is spectacular.   Really magnificent in every way.  A huge "thank you" to a committee that produced what some considered to be impossible, a very powerful event.

2.  Christmas in October is here.  Beginning 9 October and continuing through 10 October in the Venue on Royal Street, this event is one of the best every year.  It will be no different this year.  Every possible space has been filled with some of the most beautiful merchandize in Texas.  Everything from food to magnificent Christmas decorations and gifts will be available for your enjoyment and purchasing pleasure.  Invite your family, neighbors, friends, and anyone else you know.
        No one does it as well as Salado.  Come and see!

3.  Saturday, 10 October, 2-5 P.M., you must come and see Salado's newly finished Fire Station on 2484 across from the Salado High School.  You will be amazed at how spectacular and well planned this Fire Station is.  And, what is more important -- they paid as they went.  People volunteered their labor, their time, and their money to pay in full the cost of building.  There is NO debt!

     It is family day -- free demonstrations, food, and events.  Let the children enjoy the fire engines.  At 3 P.M. watch the firemen demonstrate how they get trapped people out of a wrecked car.

    The only thing that is wrong with this outstanding building is that the pantry is empty.  One way to say thank you for the Volunteer Firemen is to fill that pantry with non-perishable food that can be quickly prepared and eaten.  If you cannot make it Saturday, you can leave your food gift on the front porch of the Fire Station.  The Fire Chief and Firemen check throughout the day and will place your food in their pantry.  Of course, they may sample to make sure it is OK.  Please -- whether it is a can of Chili or a package of cookies, your gift is a wonderful token of appreciation.

4.  The Board of Aldermen/Lady workshop will begin at 7:30 instead of 6:30 P.M., Thursday, 8 October,  so that they can support arTexas.  As usual, the workshop will be in the Municipal Building.

Watch Salado shine!  We are doing just fine and that is how we do business every day.  Stand proud, Salado!  You have so much to offer now and in the future.

VR/Skip

Your Village in 3 minutes, 6 October 15

Hidden Glenn, the Senior Retirement Center continues to be built.

This email from Shey Justice, SHCM

Director of Leasing, came yesterday:

I wanted to send an e-mail and introduce myself.  As the Director of Leasing I will be overseeing the entire leasing process for the Hidden Glen community.

I have attached a preliminary copy of the Leasing Sign we are in the process of finalizing.  The number on the sign is now live and can be given to prospects.  One of my Leasing Specialists will answer the number personally and add the prospect to a waiting list.

Our Leasing process includes us setting up a temporary office either on or off site 90 to 120 days prior to CO.  We anticipate this occurring within the next 30 days.  We then contact all prospects on the wait list to begin taking applications.  Marketing, signage, and advertising are activated as needed.

Once we have mobilized, we will make sure we contact you and introduce ourselves.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Shey Justice, SHCM

Director of Leasing

2.  

Grandparents day at the Elementary School

A great morning, 7:15 A.M. and grandparents and their grandchildren are going through the service line to get an early breakfast and some early morning hugs.  Some grandparents from as far away as Kansas for the breakfast.  Carmen was there with her 12 grandchildren.  In all she has 21 grandchildren.  

Teachers came by and introduced themselves and bragging on the grandchildren which made the grandparents smile with pride.  Some grandchildren, like Olivia helped their grandparents walk to the table and later the door.  

It was a wonderful Salado Tuesday morning -- once that will be remembered for years to come.  What a wonderful gift the Elementary school gave us.  Thank you

3.

A note of tremendous sadness


"Today I was reminded how precious life is. I have been working hard for the first annual arTexas competition. We received so many beautiful pieces, truly impressive art. We had several high schoolers enter, but one in particular pulled my heart strings. I knew nothing about him, but his quiet spirit touched me. He submitted a drawing that we already had two buyers for it. I was so excited to tell him that his artwork sold even before the show opened or was judged! Sadly, I will never get that chance, because he committed suicide this morning. I wish he gave himself some time, because I believe once he realized his artwork sold, he might have had a reason to stay a little longer. Please pray his for his family. He left behind four siblings, he was the oldest child, and a Junior in high school."

Please remember the family and friends; the high school students, those who work at the arTexas, and our Village.  When tragedy strikes, it effects us all.

VR/Skip

Your Village in 3 Minutes, Sunday, 4 October

Friends,

Here is the latest in your village:

1.  Grants -- the Fire Department will receive a $200,000 grant in the future.  They are number 2 on the list to receive it sometime this year. According to the Fire Chief, the money will be used to buy a new BRUSH truck to fight fires that begin in the Brush areas.

College Hill has received a $17,000 grant for work to be done on our historical College.  Bill Kinnison wrote the submission and received the grant for his work.

Susan Terry and Keep Salado Beautiful are submitting their paperwork for a $90,000 grant.  Susan explains "our project would fund the North gateway sign and landscaping."  Looking around Salado, Keep Salado Beautiful's touch is everywhere.

Public Art League (PALS) has also received grants.

arTexas has received numerous donations.  Over 111 pieces of Art is being judged this weekend.  Art from all over Texas! 

Who says Salado cannot receive grants!  This is Proof Positive!!!! 

2.  Dave Swarthout sent this email:

"A prominent person was at what was called a VIP meeting in Killeen and overheard a conversation regarding the road construction in Killeen. The people that were talking were quite miffed by the fact that all the construction crews had been moved to Salado and were wondering what pull Salado had over Killeen. The person just sat there with a smile on their face."

3.  The Board of Aldermen/Lady receives request to name buildings and bridges after people who have contributed much to our Village over the years.  These requests are all well-written and the people are very deserving.  However, the Aldermen/Lady fill that there are not enough buildings and bridges in Salado to give everyone the proper credit they deserve.  Someone, who has given and sacrificed as much as someone else, will be left out and that is not acceptable.  The Board of Aldermen will continue to work to find a way to recognize everyone.  One has suggested a public Wall of Honor with a brief write-up of each person's contribution.  Other suggestions? 

VR/Skip

Lookin' just Fabuuuuuulous!

Friends,

What great community efforts are going on by people who are going forward:

1.  The Village Picnic sponsored by the Mill Creek Association was a great success.  Lots and lots of people; good food; and most important, great fellowship.  Here are a few pictures:

They cooked, cooked, and cooked some more!

They came with their families and ate and laughed and ate and laughed.

They played, played, and played some more while dad got pictures for the family album.

They greeted, greeted, and greeted some more -- buds appreciating each other.

They enjoyed, enjoyed and enjoyed some more.  (Probably mourned over poor ole UT.)

2.  Fire Chief Shane made a show-stopping announcement.

'2014-2015 Bell County Miss Flame giving her crown to 2015-2016 Bell County Miss Flame. 

Congratulations Sarah Kate on becoming not only our departments 2015-2016 Miss Flame but also winning Bell County Miss Flame! (Kylar won this as well) We are very proud of them both! 

Thank you Kylar for everything you have done for the department as our Miss Flame!"

Shane, you never looked better!  Kyla and Sarah you are our Miss Americas!

VR/Skip

A great Saturday, 3 October

Friend,

Please take the time today to enjoy the cool weather and bright sunshine with two wonderful events:

1.  The Mill Creek Village Picnic at Sherrill Park, across from the old club house at the low water bridge.  It is a great opportunity to see old friends and make new acquaintances.  It is also good food with the right price:  Free.

Come and Go beginning at 11 A.M. and ending at 2 P.M. Dress very informal and enjoy a great event in a beautiful location,

2.  At 3 P.M., there is a blessing of the Pets at St. Joseph's Episcopal Church.  Last year, over 15 pets were blessed from dogs to hampsters.  It is fun, heart-warming, and beneficial.  The blessing, done by Vicar Robert Bliss, is done with respect and love.  There are no guarantees.  Casper will return this year for a second blessing.  He needs all he can get.

  

Casper

VR/Skip

What a Dedication! Wat a Church!

Friends,

The Dedication of the new Catholic Church building was inspirational and thought-provoking.  It is a magnificent, beautiful house of worship.  Standing room only, members and guests heard the Bishop talk about his trip to Cuba with Pope Frances.  In the Bishop's words, "our mission must be one of mercy and love."  It was obvious from the spirit of the people that mercy and love were already being practiced at St. Stephens.  There were many, many smiles, tears of joy, and happiness as people greeted each other, participated in the worship serve, and took the Sacraments.  Thank you St. Stephens for a beautiful church, and wonderful worship service.  We celebrate with you and appreciate your commitment and dedication.

VR/Skip