ERNA Sands is producing high quality road base essential for local road repair, construction, and more. Stop by 224 Evans Lane Mason TX M-F from 6am-3pm to view our products in person or call 325-216-4189 to place your order.

💻 Browse products and learn more: www.ernasands.com

✍️ Letter from the Editor

Dear Neighbors,

As the last breath of August bears down, we’re balancing late-summer chaos with early-fall promise. Porch piles meet planner pages. Harvest events mingle with homework. And somewhere in all that swirl, we find those bright little moments of connection that make this place home.

One of those came in this week from Matt in Brady, who found his great-grandmother’s 1936 cookbook and started testing Depression-era recipes. He wrote:

We took him up on it (you’ll find porcupines simmering a few scrolls down), and we hope others will follow his lead. Share your family recipes, your attic finds, your granddad’s handwritten spice rub. This is your front porch, too.

And speaking of community genius — Venture Fest is coming Oct 2nd to Fly Gap Winery! We’re showcasing high schoolers who are pitching bold ideas about rural innovation. Know a student who should be on stage? Here’s the presentation and [the Student + Teacher Guide].

We’re also looking for mentors, sponsors, event crew, and friendly faces to clap for these kids. Let us know how you want to plug in.

Here’s to the recipes, stories, and students shaping the Hill Country — one pot, one porch, one pitch at a time.

— Katie

🪴 Fresh Off the Porch 08/28/25

This week’s Fresh off the Porch showcases the Hill Country gearing up for fall with a full slate of celebrations and community pride. Mason is at the heart of it, with Miiller’s Meat Market’s 40th anniversary, the new Frontera clinic ribbon-cutting, and family nights at the Odeon. Traditions continue with Old Yeller Day and the Wild Game Dinner, while nearby towns bustle with county fairs, BBQ cook-offs, fireworks, and live music. On the school side, the Punchers, Lady Jackets, and Harper squads are kicking off seasons strong, and students are stepping up in FFA, UIL, and campus cleanups. Local businesses are expanding, farmers markets and vineyards are welcoming harvest season, and neighbors are turning out for library storytimes, senior socials, and youth art showcases. Altogether, the region feels vibrant and close-knit — balancing heritage with fresh energy, and celebrating the wins that make small towns shine.

Events

1. Miiller’s Meat Market 40th-Year Celebration (Mason) – Monday, September 1, 2:00–5:00 PM. A come-and-go reception honoring four decades of local service and memories.

2. Labor Day Holiday (Mason) – Monday, September 1. A day of community rest and celebration in town.

3. Frontera Healthcare Ribbon-Cutting (Mason) – Wednesday, September 3, 4:00–5:30 PM. Join for light refreshments and guided tours of the new clinic.

4. Smurfs Movie Night at The Odeon (Mason) – Wednesday, September 3, 7:00–9:00 PM. A family-friendly screening of a beloved animated classic.

5. Seaquist House Monthly Tour (Mason) – Saturday, September 6, 10:00 AM–1:30 PM. Historical guided tours in a beautifully restored Hill Country home.

6. Mason Military Museum Open Day – Saturday, September 6, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Explore local military history—from Civil War to modern times.

7. Mason County Historical Museum Open Tours – Saturday, September 6, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM. Free admission to exhibits celebrating community heritage.

8. 4-H “The Pastures” Program & Golf Fundraiser (Mason) – Saturday, September 6, 5:00–8:00 PM. An evening supporting youth agricultural education and community camaraderie.

9. Texas Hill Country Review Concert at The Odeon – Saturday, September 6, 7:00–9:00 PM. A showcase of singer-songwriters from Mason and the Hill Country.

10. Karaoke with DJ Polo P at Willow Creek Café (Mason) – Saturday, September 6, 9:00 PM–midnight. A lively musical night for locals and visitors alike.

11. Old Yeller Day (Mason) – Saturday, September 20. A nostalgic family celebration honoring Fred Gipson with food, music, arts, and the annual dog parade.

12. Wild Game Dinner (Mason) – Saturday, November 8. A community dinner featuring wild game dishes, door prizes, and a live auction supporting local causes.

13. Hill Country Cup Charity Golf Tournament (Fredericksburg) – August 29–September 1. A four-person Texas Scramble benefiting local charities.

14. Western Music Festival & Bandera Round-Up (Bandera) – August 29–31. Enjoy live western music, cattle-drive parades, crafts, and reenactments.

15. Kendall County Fair (Boerne) – August 29–31. Livestock showcases, rodeo excitement, and a lively Queen’s pageant.

16. Kow Kick & BBQ Cook-Off (Junction) – Saturday, August 30. A community fair with family games, BBQ competition, and local vendors.

17. Fireworks on Main (Fredericksburg) – Saturday, August 30. A festive community fireworks display lighting up the Hill Country sky.

Community Features & Heritage Highlights

18. Seaquist House Restoration Matching Grant (Mason) – A local donor pledges dollar-for-dollar matching up to $100,000 to support exterior repairs and preservation efforts.

19. Fort Mason Museum Reopening – The historic 1851 fort now offers restored officers’ quarters open for local and visiting history buffs.

20. Texas Hill Country Trail Promotion – Regional efforts continue to promote heritage tourism and celebratory pride in Hill Country’s historic charms.

Youth & High School Sports Highlights

21. Mason Punchers Football Season Kick-off – Varsity hits the gridiron Friday, August 29 at Wall High School, followed by a home game versus Brady on September 5.

22. Mason ISD Varsity & JV Puncher Scrimmage vs. Llano – Friday, August 15. The teams took to the field in a spirited preseason tune-up in Llano.

23. Mason Punchers Cross-Country Opens Season – August 27 at Brownwood Invitational. Runners prepare for a strong fall season.

24. Mason Youth Tennis Club Match Play – August 30. Students and families gather at the Mason City Courts for friendly matches.

25. Llano Lady Jackets Cross-Country Relay – Thursday, August 15. The team competed at the Wimberley relay meet, showcasing teamwork and endurance.

26. Llano Lady Jackets Volleyball Classic – August 15–16. The team placed third in tournament play with wins over Junction and Copperas Cove JV.

27. Puncher JV Football Hosts Blanco – September 4 at the Mason ISD field. Local athletes square off under the lights for hometown fans.

28. Mason Elementary Mile Club – September 9. Young students begin their fitness program with laps around the school track.

29. Harper High School Cross-Country Invitational – September 3. The Jaguars host their annual Jacob Krebs meet, drawing teams from across the Hill Country.

30. Harper HS JV Football Scrimmage – August 28 at D’Hanis. Junior varsity athletes sharpen their skills ahead of district play.

31. Harper HS Volleyball at Bronte Tournament – August 29–30. The varsity team competes in a key early-season tournament.

32. Menard Youth Flag Football Registration – Open through August 8. Kids across the county sign up to learn teamwork and enjoy friendly fall competition.

33. Menard ISD Campus Cleanup & Volunteer Effort – Community volunteers and staff worked together in August to prepare the campus for a bright new school year.

Awards & Recognitions

34. Dark Sky Preservation Awards – The Hill Country Alliance honors local efforts to reduce light pollution and protect our region’s starry night skies.

35. Mason County Volunteer Spotlight – A local volunteer firefighter receives recognition for 20 years of service to the community.

36. FFA Chapter Awards – Mason High School FFA students honored for livestock judging and leadership achievements at the district level.

37. UIL Academics Kick-Off – Mason ISD students recognized for their strong start in academic competition prep, with several top finishes at preseason meets.

Civic Pride & Community Building

38. Hill Country Dark Sky Conference (Blanco) – A successful regional gathering focused on protecting the area’s natural dark skies.

39. Water-Wise Development Workshop (Wimberley) – A collaborative workshop bringing developers and community members together to explore sustainable water and landscape planning.

40. Mason County Cancer Benefit Raffle Announced – Tickets now available for September’s annual fundraiser supporting families affected by cancer.

41. Mason Senior Center Dance Social – September 10. An evening of classic country tunes and community fun for seniors.

42. Pioneer Memorial Library Storytime – Weekly children’s program resumes September 11 with books, crafts, and singing.

Business Highlights & Milestones

44. New Café Opening on Mason Square – A family-owned coffee and pastry shop launches in early September, adding to the charm of the courthouse square.

45. Local Boutique Expansion – A Mason women’s clothing boutique announces plans to double its retail space by fall.

46. Llano Farmers Market Harvest Season – September Saturdays bring fresh produce, crafts, and live music to the courthouse square.

47. Fredericksburg Vineyard Harvest Crush Parties – Local wineries host grape-stomping events and harvest dinners in early September.

48. Harper Feed & Supply Renovation – A long-standing family business completes its major remodel, offering more space and new services.

49. Brady Small Business Development Seminar – September 12. Entrepreneurs gather for a half-day workshop on digital tools and customer service.

Community Spotlights & Good News

50. Junction Youth Art Exhibit – Opening September 15 at the Kimble County Courthouse. Local students display artwork celebrating Hill Country creativity.

🌤️ Weather at a Glance — Week of August 28–September 2, 2025

Well, butter my biscuits—that Texas Hill Country’s fixin’ for itself a real mixed bag this week! Thursday's a scorcher hitting around 100°F, folks, and we’re talkin’ prime heat-wave territory—get your shade game on and keep them water jugs full.

As we mosey toward Friday and Saturday, temps dip into the mid-90s, but afternoons might bring another stray storm or two—don’t be caught out doin’ chores when thunder starts gossiping overhead. Sunday and Monday cool just enough—highs in the upper 80s to low 90s—with a few soggy surprises, especially in the morning. By Tuesday, we’re aiming for more sunshine and slightly less humidity, with highs back in the low-mid 90s. No signs of hail or floods this week, but them afternoon thundershowers can be ornery—watch for quick wind gusts or heavy rain that’ll have you sprinting for cover.

So, in one sentence: hot as a cast-iron skillet with steamy nights, flash pop-up storms most afternoons, and a little relief in the air by week’s end. Stay cool, stay smart, and may your porch sittin’ be shade-friendly and storm-safe!

Community Content & Classifieds

🎉 Listening Tour Spotlight: AEIOU Students Opens Its Doors

Last Thursday afternoon, Mason welcomed a brand-new resource for families navigating the special education system. At 411 Ft McKavit Street, Tina Painter officially opened the doors to her new business, AEIOU Students, LLC — short for Advocating and Educating to Improve Outcomes for Unique Students.

Tina knows firsthand that “special education” isn’t just about visible or profound disabilities. “Today, it covers everything from dyslexia and dysgraphia to autism and other learning differences,” she explained. “But too many kids aren’t identified until high school — sometimes as late as ninth grade.”

Her own motivation comes close to home. When her grandson struggled in school, Tina pushed for testing that the district initially resisted. What she discovered — confusing rules, intimidating acronyms, and parents left out of the loop — drove her to launch AEIOU Students. “Parents walk into an IEP meeting with six or seven school officials using jargon like ARD, RTI, or BOY. It’s overwhelming. My job is to level the playing field.”

That’s why we grabbed a copy of Tina’s Special Education Glossary — a plain-language guide to all the alphabet soup. We’ve made it available digitally so you don’t have to sit through another meeting wondering what’s being said. 👉 [Click here to get the glossary]

AEIOU operates on a sliding scale so every family can access advocacy. Those on reduced or free lunch pay about 25%, while others pay more. Tina believes families need “skin in the game” so they can partner in the process, not just hand it over. Her approach is to negotiate early, avoid costly legal battles, and keep the focus where it belongs: on the student.

As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent myself, I find Tina’s work deeply important. For a long time, my own challenges went unnoticed — in part because I was always on the honor roll, graduating at the top of my class. Unique students are not always those who are failing. Some are excelling, but still working twice as hard under the surface. I went on to earn an MBA and multiple industry credentials before ever receiving a diagnosis. For girls especially, socialization often masks symptoms, which can delay recognition even further.

That’s why I encourage parents to reach out to Tina and talk through their child’s education plan. Even strong students may have gaps that are accidentally overlooked — gaps that, if addressed early, could unlock not just better grades, but confidence and lifelong resilience.

Her long-term vision? To work herself out of a job — because schools and communities will meet students’ needs without outside help. Until then, Mason and the Greater Mason County area now have a guide who knows the law, speaks the language, and sits beside them at the table.

📞 Contact Tina Painter, AEIOU Students

• Website: www.aeioustudents.com

• Phone: 325-294-4524

• Location: 411 Ft McKavit St C, Mason, TX

And because this is part of The Townie Listening Tour: if you’d like your business or story featured, hit reply with your contact info and a story angle. We’ll set up a time to visit.

💼 Job Board / Help Wanted

🦌 Hunting Guide Needed – Fredonia, TX
Full-time hunting guide needed for MLD season + ranch hand work in the off-season.
📞 Call Justin Mondrik at 830-317-1977 for more info.

🛠️ Local Services & Contractors

Powers Aquatics Construction & Landscaping
📞 Call Lloyd Powers at 325-446-6085

Nailed It Clearing and Dirt Work – Josh Nail
Land clearing + dirt work
📞 325-347-7665

Twisted K Construction – Ashton Kettinger
Rural construction work
📞 830-333-4589

🫙 For Sale / Local Products

Sheri Ivy’s Homemade Salsa
$12/pint. Made locally. Limited batch.
🛒 Stop by London Grocery & Grill (17451 US-377, London, TX 76854)
📞 Or call (325) 475-2296 to place your order!

2020 Grand Design SOLITUDE 377MBS Fifth Wheel
$42,500. Sleeps 10. 40 ft with 4 slide outs, king bed, bunks, Cummins Onan generator. Well maintained. Mason County.
📞 Call Joel at (830) 777-7550 for more info.

🎟️ Community Events & Fundraisers

London Community Assoc. Raffle – Drawing Sept 13
Win firearms or a Lyssy & Eckel gift card.
🎟️ Tickets: $5 each or 5 for $20
📞 Call Philip at 325-446-5344

Click here to 👉 Submit your classified to The Townie.

Snoop that listing! — Real Estate

📍 325 East Rainey Street, Mason, TX
Built in 1954, this charming red-brick home is tucked just minutes from the local schools. With 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a cozy 1,866 sq ft footprint, it sits on a quarter-acre lot—plenty of yard without the upkeep. Inside, you'll find warm wood finishes, spacious rooms, and updates throughout. The sellers are even offering a roofing allowance to help you get started fresh. This one’s got great bones, and even better potential.

💬 Want to see it in person? Call Shayne Smith at 325-347-4012 or email [email protected].

FOR SALE :: 3BR / 2BA home on small acreage in Erna, TX. 1985 double-wide mobile home needs full remodel. Well, septic, and electric in place. Nice front-yard shade tree and direct highway access. $75,000. Call Randy at (325) 347-2520.

📍 From the Hill Country to the Coast :: Whether you're settling down in San Saba, looking for a weekend escape in Utopia, or finally making the move to Port Aransas—Jennifer Nack knows what makes a home the right home. With 25 years in the business, deep Texas roots, and a serious heart for giving back, Jennifer brings real value to every transaction.

💬 Ready to start your search—or your sale? Call Jennifer at 210-410-1276 or email [email protected]

Click here to 👉 Submit your real estate or rental to The Townie.

Business Backbone with Walt & Nadine

📍 Now serving children and adults in McCulloch and surrounding counties
From ages 3 to 103, Olive Branch is here for the hard stuff—grief, trauma, transitions, and everything in between. You don’t have to do life alone. Their compassionate, licensed team offers counseling for individuals and families navigating real-life challenges, right here in rural Texas.

📞 Call: 210-564-4310
🌐 olivebranchsa.com

Dear Walt & Nadine,
Every time I see a local event posted — whether it’s a fundraiser, a museum open house, or even a concert — I wonder if I should be doing something with my business. I make homemade dog treats and a few other pet items. Folks seem to like them when I bring samples around, but I’ve never officially “popped up” at an event.

There’s a lot coming up: the 4-H golf fundraiser, Miiller’s Meat Market’s anniversary, even Old Yeller Day. But I don’t know how to ask if I can join, or how to tell if it’s worth the time and setup. Do I need a booth? A table? A permit? I don’t want to annoy anyone, but I also don’t want to miss a good opportunity.

How do I know if I’m ready — and how do I actually make it work?

— Thinking About a Table

Click here to 👉 Submit your Q to Walt & Nadine.

WALT SAYS: Start small, not fancy.

You don’t need a “booth.” You need a clean table, a good sign, and something people actually want to buy. Lucky for you, Mason loves dogs — Old Yeller Day alone proves that.

If I were you, I’d be calling the folks behind that dog parade today. Ask if they’ve got space for vendors. Bring your top three treat varieties, some water bowls, and a tip jar. Boom. Pop-up.

Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to be everywhere. You need to show up well where people already like what you sell.

Skip the golf tournament — they’re not there to buy. But Miiller’s 40th? That’s a crowd that loves meat and probably owns a lab named Duke. That’s your customer.

Pick events with your people. Keep your costs low. And always bring dog bags — they forget, and you’ll be the hero.

NADINE SAYS: Walt’s spot-on about starting with the right events. Pop-ups can be wonderful if you’re thoughtful about fit. Here’s how I’d approach it:

1. Pick two strategic events this season. Old Yeller Day is a natural fit — you could even do “Best in Show” treat bags. Also look at the Mason County Historical Museum tours — families will be out and about. A small pet corner outside could be a win.

2. Reach out with respect. Contact organizers 2–3 weeks ahead. Ask, “Are you accepting pop-up vendors? I make homemade dog treats and would love to complement your event.” Most local groups welcome it if you’re kind, tidy, and relevant.

3. Prepare like a pro.

   • Portable table, sign, business cards

   • Samples (cut small, clean, labeled)

   • A simple price list — 1 for $4, 3 for $10

   • A way to collect payment and emails

4. Set a goal. It could be $150 in sales, 20 new email contacts, or meeting 3 new collaborators. That’s how you’ll know if it was “worth it.”

One last tip: if an event has no pet connection, partner with someone who does. Maybe the new café opening wants free treat samples for dog-owning customers that weekend. Now you’re top of mind — without ever setting up a table.

🕵️‍♀️ The Biz You Didn’t Know Existed

• Bogusia’s Farmstand – “Sourdough from the Heart of the Hill Country”
  From the rolling hills of Poland to a cozy microbakery in the Texas countryside, Bogusia Speakman offers long-fermented, organic sourdough baked goods that bring comfort and tradition to your table.
  🌐 Bogusia’s Farmstand on Facebook

• Cross Keys Designs – “Let Us Tell Your Story!”
  Interior design rooted in personal storytelling—spaces that reflect your journey, style, and soul.
  🔗 FB: CrossKeysDesigns

• WIN: Women’s Innovation Network – “Women in Business: Networking + Learning Together”
  A regional women’s business network with regular events, mentorship, and community support.
  🔗 FB: WIN

• RV EMT – “Mobile RV Repairs. Reliable Parts. Ready to Roll.”
  On-the-go RV service and parts for Texans with wanderlust.
  🌐 rvemt.com

• Heart of Texas Taxidermy – “Preserving Your Trophies for a Lifetime”
  Local taxidermist with deep Texas roots and a law enforcement background.
  🌐 heartoftexastaxidermy.com

• House of Joy Art Studio – “Art from the Heart of the Hill Country”
  Local artist Joy Milliorn brings creativity and community to San Saba through watercolor workshops, artisan events, and an inspiring studio space. Explore, create, and connect.
  🌐 houseofjoyartstudio.com

*sponsored 👉 Click here to advertise in The Townie — all ads free until Oct.

💼 Job of the Week

ERNA Sands is Hiring!

Join a growing team at Mason’s own sand plant. Entry-level role with warehouse + office tasks. Must be 18+, able to lift 50 lbs, and eager to learn. We’ll train the right fit.
📧 Apply: [email protected]

*sponsored 👉 Click here to advertise in The Townie — all ads free until Oct.

Career & Money with Laurel and Reese

Because even small-town superheroes need a reset.

Gentle, body-based yoga to help you slow down, breathe deeper, and come back to yourself — no flexibility required.

📍 With Alison Pounds, trauma-informed yoga for real-life rest.
🌐 alisonpoundsyoga.com | IG: @alisonpoundsyoga

*sponsored 👉 Click here to advertise in The Townie — all ads free until Oct.

Dear Laurel & Reese,

I love my town deeply. I grew up here, left for a while, and came back because I believe in this place and want to help it grow in ways that are sustainable, inclusive, and rooted in what makes the Hill Country special.

Lately, I’ve found myself volunteering for everything: helping with historic preservation efforts, attending town hall meetings, promoting dark sky initiatives, even setting up chairs at the local library’s water-wise planning workshop. I keep thinking—this is the work I care about most. But I have a full-time job in an entirely unrelated field, and I can’t shake the feeling that I’m living two lives: the job that pays the bills and the work that feeds my spirit.

Is there actually a way to turn community care into a career? Or am I just dreaming?

Signed,
Heart First, Paycheck Second

Click here to 👉 Submit your Q to Laurel & Reese.

First of all: you are not just dreaming. You’re doing the dreaming and the doing, which is more than most people manage when they care deeply about something. What you’ve built—through time, energy, and presence—is more than a résumé line. It’s community capital. And yes, it can absolutely become a career.

Let’s break it down.

1. You’re already a civic leader. Time to own it.

The way you describe your involvement? That’s not dabbling. That’s grassroots organizing, public engagement, and nonprofit collaboration in action. Reframe what you’re doing: you’re a connector, advocate, and steward of local change. That’s valuable—and fundable—work.

2. Start with local orgs, not job boards.

Look at who’s already doing work aligned with your passions: city planning departments, heritage organizations, watershed alliances, regional tourism boards, or local nonprofits focused on sustainability and development. Many of these orgs are under-resourced and would pay someone like you… if they knew you were interested and available.

Script to try:

Sometimes the work exists—it’s just contract-based, part-time, or hiding in someone’s desk drawer until the right person comes along.

3. Follow the funding.

Community-impact careers often follow grants. You might find job opportunities through county partnerships, state heritage funding, rural development grants, or environmental coalitions. Don’t be afraid to ask: “Who’s funding this?” That trail often leads to organizations who need help executing big visions.

You can also consider writing small grants yourself—funding for heritage preservation, dark sky education, or local history initiatives often includes stipends or admin fees.

4. Build your bridge—not a leap.

You don’t have to quit your job tomorrow to pursue this calling. Instead, set a 6–12 month plan:

• Take on a small paid contract or stipend-based project.

• Start building a portfolio of your civic work (photos, flyers, press mentions, quotes from collaborators).

• Let people know you’re open to project-based work or transition opportunities.

• Attend a workshop or training in grant writing, community planning, or nonprofit leadership.

The key is showing that your community heart comes with professional skills—and you’ve got both.

Your town is lucky to have you. The future you’re imagining? It’s not just possible. It’s needed. And you’re not behind—you’re already on the path.

Signed,
Career & Money with Laurel & Reese

Home and Garden with Hazel Mae & Fern

🛋️ Cross Keys Designs – “Let Us Tell Your Story”

Your home isn’t just a place—it’s a reflection of your life, your memories, your style. Cross Keys Designs helps you bring that story to life through curated interiors that feel personal, soulful, and deeply yours.
🛠️ Let your home speak. www.crosskeysdesigns.com

Dear Hazel Mae & Fern,
We moved out to the country for the quiet, the stars, and a little more space to breathe. What I didn’t realize was how quickly that “space” would get filled with soccer cleats, muddy boots, and tiny jackets that somehow never make it to a hook.

I’m trying to carve out a mudroom that actually functions (read: keeps my sanity intact) and figure out how to light our yard so my kids don’t trip over armadillos at night without washing out the beautiful night sky we came here for.

Any tips for keeping order indoors and ambiance outdoors?

Sincerely,
Stars, Spills & Soccer Drills

Click here to 👉 Submit your Q to Hazel Mae and Fern.

Dear Stars, Spills & Soccer Drills,

Hazel Mae here, and let me just say — you are speaking our language. Trying to preserve your patch of Hill Country heaven while wrangling muddy children is like trying to keep a white couch clean during a root beer float fight. Noble. Nearly impossible. But worth it.

Let’s tackle that mudroom first — or as I like to call it, “The Last Line of Defense Between Outside and My Sanity.”

You need zones, sugar. Not shelves, not baskets — zones. Think like a football coach: cleats go here, bags go there, jackets get hooked immediately, or someone runs laps (metaphorically, of course… unless you’re into that). Install a boot tray with gravel or a thrifted baking sheet to catch the worst of the mess, and label every dang hook. I used old paint stirrers and a Sharpie. It ain’t fancy, but it works.

And if you're short on space, a vertical shoe rack and a bench with cubbies can turn a corner into command central. Just remember: if you make it cute and kid-proof, you’ll win the war most days.

Fern here, and bless your heart for loving the stars enough to ask. Out here, the dark sky is sacred — not just for its beauty, but for what it reminds us of: how small we are, and how lucky we are to be still enough to notice.

For your yard, I recommend downward-facing, shielded lights with warm LEDs (2700K or less). They provide just enough glow to guide little feet without blasting light up into the cosmos. You can find solar-powered path lights that flick on gently as the sun sets, or motion-activated lights near doors and tricky steps.

Even better, get your kids involved. Have them help set up a few lights along their path to the trampoline or chicken coop or wherever they’re flinging their shoes these days. When they take part, they take pride. And when they see the Milky Way stretch across that big ol’ sky above them, maybe they’ll forget to argue about who left their socks in the hose bib.

Hazel Mae again, and let me just say this — you’re doing fine. It’s a messy, muddy, magical life out here. Just don’t forget to step out barefoot once in a while, tilt your head back, and say, “Mercy, would you look at that sky.” Everything else will wait.

With grit, grace, and a boot tray by the door,
Hazel Mae & Fern

🔨 Contractor’s Corner

Sponsored by Refuge Decor & Designs
From paint color consultations (thinking Clary Sage for a soft refresh? Or Alabaster for that clean, calm glow?) to full space makeovers, Tessa brings local charm, expert eyes, and just the right amount of “let’s do this” energy to every project—starting at just $50.
📞 Call 254-630-8950 | 💻 FB: @RefugebyTessa

Ladies, the sweat-and-salsa season is here — and we say that’s all the more reason to sprinkle a little joy on your week. Below are our handpicked deals, treats, and everyday upgrades to help you feel good, look good, and support The Townie while you’re at it. Go on, darlin’ — treat yo’self.

🛍️ Levi’s – For When the Thrift Store Runs Cold
When we can’t find vintage 501s at the resale shop, we head straight to the source. 30% off sitewide and still the coolest jeans west of the Pedernales.
Shop Levi’s Labor Day Sale

🛒 Etsy – Holiday Hints & Handmade Gold
Shame on us for saying it, but the holidays are peeking over the horizon. Stock up on bulk handmade gems now — like those cozy Azerbaijan slippers we can’t pronounce but can’t live without.
Browse Etsy Finds

👢 Mattress Firm – Lay Your Labor Day Down
We spent a fortune on our mattress and don’t regret a cent. If you’ve been putting off your upgrade, now’s the time — up to 70% off, which means sweet dreams and no backache.
Snag a Mattress Deal

🎁 QVC Home – Clearance Without the Chaos
Labor Day deals without fighting a single parking lot. Up to 50% off and maybe even monthly payments — hallelujah and pass the clicker.
Shop QVC Clearance

🛍️ Macy’s – Hill Country Luxe
We’re a hundred miles from Macy’s, but this online sale (25–50% off) brings the big city to your front porch. Just enough glam for your Labor Day lounging.
Browse Macy’s Sale

🛒 Stanley – Sip Pretty, Stay Cool
You can’t chase a toddler or paint a cabinet without hydration. Stanley’s Labor Day sale means your tumbler stays icy through this seasonal blaze.
Grab a Stanley Tumbler

👢 American Eagle – Back-to-School, Take Two
For every parent who couldn’t justify the $70 jeans during school shopping — now’s your second chance. 50–70% off and worth it for peace at the breakfast table.
Shop AE Sale

🎁 Academy Sports + Outdoors – Prep Like the Punchers
Until their Kerrville store opens, we’re shopping Academy online. Snag gear for tailgates, dove season, or just surviving soccer practice.
Stock Up at Academy

🛍️ FlexJobs – Remote Work, Real Results
Looking to swap your car commute for coffee on the porch? FlexJobs rounds up remote gigs without the spam. Real jobs. Real flexibility.
Explore FlexJobs

🛒 Green Chef – Dinner, Done
Fern says this is for those nights when “the tomatoes are overripe, and so are your nerves.” Organic meal kits that do the thinking for you.
Try Green Chef

👢 Ka’Chava – Morning Fuel for the Weary & Wise
A breakfast shake packed with enough nutrients to power a school drop-off, grocery run, and a call to the plumber — all before 10 a.m.
Blend Up Some Ka’Chava

🧤 From the Flour-Dusted Files of Brady, TX

Reader Matt from Brady wrote in after last week’s edition with a gem we just had to share:

Matt, we’re tipping our aprons to you — and to your great-grandmother. This is exactly the kind of neighborly wisdom and nostalgia we love. Thanks for reminding us that good food doesn’t have to be fancy — just heartfelt and shared.

We picked one of her recipes to try this week — straight from the 1936 VIKO Cook Book:

🍅 Porcupines (Meat & Rice Balls in Tomato Soup)

1 lb. ground round steak
1 small onion, chopped fine
½ cup uncooked rice
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
2 cans tomato soup

Mix everything up, shape into balls, and cook slowly in tomato soup for 1 hour and 15 minutes. That’s it! (Chopped mushrooms optional but welcome.)

📝 Got a family recipe, old cookbook, or kitchen memory to share? Hit reply and send it our way. Let’s keep these stories simmering.

Travel and Dreamers: for when you want to wander but not too far…

🏛 If These Walls Could Speak: The Seaquist House Story

If these walls could speak, they would tell you of grand dances held under flickering gaslight, of neighbors gathering in parlors lined with black walnut beadboard and floor-to-ceiling windows, of whispered hopes and hushed prayers that carried through generations. Standing tall on Broad Street in Mason, Texas, the Seaquist House has been more than a home. It has been the town’s crown jewel — a living landmark whose story mirrors the rise, fall, and resilience of the Hill Country itself.

Today, thanks to the passion of Jan Appleby and the many volunteers she convinced this house could indeed be saved, that jewel is shining again. In 2015, Jan’s vision became a reality when the Seaquist House Foundation, Inc. was incorporated as a Texas nonprofit. With a Board of Directors drawn from those early volunteers, the Foundation has preserved the house and opened its doors once more as a centerpiece for community, celebration, and economic vitality.

A House Built to Last

Construction began in 1887, and the Seaquist House quickly became one of the finest surviving examples of Victorian Italianate architecture in Texas. Its stately exterior combines native sandstone with imported hand-carved limestone, while the interior showcases intricate walnut woodwork and long-leaf pine floors. Nearly every room tells a story: ornate fireplaces, original beadboard and tin ceilings, stained-glass windows that catch the morning sun, and even a ballroom on the third floor where music once drifted out over the neighborhood.

The home has also witnessed history firsthand. It stood through World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II, adapting to the times. Jenny Reynolds, along with the second generation of Seaquists, even opened parts of the first and second floors as a boarding house to help meet expenses. Over its lifespan, the Reynolds family lived here for 28 years, and the Seaquist family for 96 years — three generations in all.

But like so many historic homes, time was not always kind. Roof leaks spread, wood warped and rotted, and eventually the grandeur began to fade. For decades, the house teetered between memory and ruin — until the community, led by determined locals like Jan and the Foundation’s Board, refused to let it be lost.

Jan’s Mission

When asked why she pours so much of her time and heart into this project, Jan doesn’t hesitate. It’s the craftsmanship. “The details here are unlike anything you’ll find in modern construction,” she says. “Every hinge, the hand-carved newel post and banister, the arched and curved walls, the Victorian Eastlake hardware, the long-leaf pine of the floors, and every pane of stained glass — it all tells a story of people who built with pride.”

As a fifth-generation Mason resident, Jan also sees the house as a keeper of community identity. Saving the Seaquist House is, in many ways, saving the soul of Mason.

More Than a Museum

While the Seaquist House attracts history buffs, architects, and builders from across Texas, it isn’t just a place to tour. It’s a place to gather. The Foundation has opened its doors for events that bring the house back to life — from holiday parties and small weddings to brunches and photo sessions. Future plans include larger weddings once the rear landscaping is complete, and networking mixers that will make the house a hub of civic life once again.

These events don’t just support the preservation effort; they allow new memories to be layered onto old ones, keeping the Seaquist House not only relevant but vital to Mason’s future.

An Economic Driver

Heritage tourism is one of Mason County’s strongest economic engines, and the Seaquist House is at its center. Visitors who come to tour the house also shop downtown, dine in local restaurants, and stay in nearby lodging. Supporting the Foundation doesn’t just preserve a landmark — it supports the broader economy, ensuring Mason remains a place where families can live, work, and play.

A Living Legacy

If these walls could speak, they might sigh with relief. Saved from decay, restored with love, and reimagined for the next generation, the Seaquist House is more than a monument to the past. It is a promise to the future — that Mason values its heritage enough to invest in it, celebrate it, and share it with the world.

📊 Seaquist House at a Glance

• Year Built: Construction began in 1887

• Style: Victorian Italianate with Queen Anne touches

• Size: 22 rooms, including a third-floor ballroom

• Materials: Native sandstone, imported exterior limestone, walnut woodwork interior

• Distinctive Features:

  • 15 fireplaces

  • Stained glass windows throughout

  • Carved staircases and Eastlake hardware

  • Towering ceilings on third floor with period light fixtures

• Ownership: Seaquist House Foundation, Inc. (Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofit, founded 2015)

• Tours: Public tours available the first Saturday of the month

• Annual Event: Christmas at the Seaquist House — held the Saturday after Thanksgiving (free, open to public, donations encouraged)

• Venue Use: Available for private events (holiday parties, showers, small weddings, photo sessions, fundraisers). Larger weddings and mixers planned with upcoming landscaping improvements.

• Location: 405 Broad Street, Mason, Texas

• Website: www.seaquist.org

• Tour/Events Information: 325-347-4058

And because this is part of The Townie Listening Tour: if you’d like your business or story featured, hit reply with your contact info and a story angle. We’ll set up a time to visit.

🎶 Rural Hometown Vibes 🎶

We’ve been cooking up something special for your speakers. Meet Rural Hometown Vibes — The Townie’s very own playlist, packed with 41 songs to carry you from Friday night lights to a lazy Sunday porch swing.

It’s a mix of small-town swagger, Texas grit, and toe-tapping joy — perfect for road trips, backyard BBQs, or just sweeping the kitchen with a little more attitude.

So turn it up, darlin’, and let the weekend start early.

👉 Listen to Rural Hometown Vibes on Spotify

💌 SHARE THE LOVE

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