Lisa Wingate, New York Times #1 Bestselling Author, led The Hamilton Public Library Book Club meeting on Tuesday, June 30. Wingate spoke about her writing process, her research on historical information, and answered audience member questions. Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase Wingate’s books and have them signed.
James Hooper, Pastor of Victory Christian Fellowship Church, Hamilton City Councilman and author, signed copies of his new book, “Rewired by God.” The focus of his new book is how “God’s Word interacts with the way the human mind processes reality.” Sharon, Hooper’s wife of 39 years, is also pictured.
In conjunction with Main Street’s Market Days held the second Saturday of each month in historic downtown Hamilton, a pair of local businesses, including Texas Rose Tattoo Commission and The Black Sheep Mercantile, hosted customers, friends, local residents and visitors in celebrating their fourth anniversary. “The event included classic cars, food, music, local shopping and an opportunity for the community to come together,” said Amy Cowart, who owns and operates the two businesses with her husband Shawn Warcot. The couple made the decision to relocate to Hamilton from California. “Over the past four years, we’ve enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people, restoring an old farmhouse, opening our businesses, and doing our best to contribute to Hamilton’s downtown and local events,” she said. “Like many small business owners, we’ve experienced the challenges and rewards of starting over, investing in a small Texas town, becoming part of the local community and creating a place where people can gather.” Pictured right (l-r), Maisyn Norton, Chamber Manager Tamara Timmons, Kensli Timmons and dad Chad stopped in for the celebration and got to watch artists Steve Varner and Katie Roa in action. Pictured below with his son Rusty, Alex Catoe’s 1964 Corvair Monza was on display during the car show.
Photos by Grant Lengefeld
Get creative with a variety of hands-on art and craft programs throughout July at Hamilton Public Library. From watercolor painting and paper quilling to jewelry making and fiber arts, there’s something for every age and skill level.
Local artist Jackie Cunningham will lead two summer-themed watercolor classes, offering participants the opportunity to create bright, seasonal paintings while learning watercolor techniques in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Classes will be held on Wednesday, July 15, at 2 p.m. and Wednesday, July 29, at 1 p.m. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking to build your skills, these classes are designed to inspire creativity and fun. Registration is required and a $5 fee covers all materials needed.
On Friday, July 17, at 2 p.m., Hamilton High School student Haley Hopper will return to the library to teach the art of paper quilling. This unique craft uses carefully rolled and shaped strips of paper to create beautiful designs that can be turned into greeting cards, wall art and keepsakes. All supplies will be provided, making it easy for beginners to give this intricate art form a try.
Young crafters ages 6-10 are invited to create their own colorful jewelry during Stretchy Bracelet Beading with Laura Bristle on Wednesday, July 22, at 2 p.m. Participants will design and assemble bracelets using a variety of beads while developing fine motor skills and expressing their personal style. Space is limited, so register by Friday, July 17. A fee of $10 covers all materials needed.
For those who enjoy yarn and needlework, the library also hosts a weekly Fiber Arts gathering every Wednesday at 4 p.m. Crafters are encouraged to bring their crochet, knitting, embroidery, cross-stitch or other handwork projects to work alongside fellow makers. This informal group welcomes beginners and experienced fiber artists alike and provides a great opportunity to learn new techniques, share ideas and enjoy fellowship.
“Creative activities do so much more than produce something beautiful,” said Director Kym Jeschke. Whether you’re painting, beading, quilling, or working on a crochet project, taking time to create is an investment in both your well-being and your sense of community. We’re excited to offer opportunities where people of all ages can learn a new skill, meet others with similar interests and experience the joy of creating.”
Space is limited for many classes, and advance registration is encouraged. To register or learn more about upcoming library programs, stop by Hamilton Public Library or visit www.hamilton- public-library.org.
These programs are part of Hamilton Public Library’s ongoing commitment to providing educational and enriching opportunities for the community throughout the year.
The 54th Annual Dove Fest Parade is officially in motion with a date set for Sept. 5 and a theme in place. This year’s theme is America 250, Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom.
That Fourth of July patriotism can continue in September with the Dove Festival parade, honoring America’s 250th birthday, the nation’s history, heroes, traditions, and bright future.
Businesses, schools, churches, organizations, clubs, families, and groups of friends are invited to be a part of this once-in-a-generation celebration with a float in the parade.
Themes and ideas for floats could include Historic moments, Military tributes, Small-town traditions, American landmarks, Hometown heroes, Visions for America’s future, etc.
The online registration link will be posted very soon on the Hamilton County Dove Festival Facebook page. For vendor information or to request an application, contact hamiltonchambertx@gmail.com, send a direct message on Facebook to the Dove Festival page/Chamber of Commerce page, or call 254-386-3216.
Hamilton FFA had a great showing during the 98th Texas FFA Convention. A lot of hard work and success have led to these students achieving some of the highest honors and awards. Addy Clowdus, Colton DeLaGarza, Masyn Raibourn and Cooper Turner received their Lone Star FFA Degree which is the highest award possible at the state level. Cade Branquinho, Brazos McGregor, Haley McGregor, and Katy Parrish competed in the Texas FFA Rodeo. Branquinho ended up as the 2026 Texas FFA Steer Wrestling Champion.
Hamilton’s First Baptist Church started its summer music camp on June 29. The camp will end July 3 with a production of the play “Holy Moses” on Friday evening. All week, kids are separated into fun groups like the purple pandas, yellow yaks and red rhinos for music rehearsals, where they learn their roles and songs for Friday’s performance, in between snack time, recreation, crafts, and bible study.
The Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) is alerting Texas pet owners that New World Screwworm (NWS) has been confirmed in Texas, the first detection in the United States since the pest was eradicated in 1966. NWS flies lay eggs in wounds or skin openings of mammals, and their larvae feed on living tissue, which can cause severe damage and even death if left untreated.
While that sounds alarming, NWS can be treated successfully when caught early. The initial case in Zavala County was identified in a calf, but dogs, cats, and other companion animals are also at risk, so pet owners across the state should keep a close eye on their animals.
There is no need to panic. The United States successfully eradicated NWS before, and state and federal agencies have been preparing for this moment for more than a year. Response efforts are already underway in South Texas, approved treatments are available, and animal health officials are on the ground across the region.
What Pet Owners Should Watch For Even small breaks in the skin, including scratches, insect bites, or surgical incisions, can be places where flies can lay eggs. Pet owners should watch for:
• Any wound, no matter how small, that shows unusual swelling or discharge
• A foul or distinctive odor coming from a wound
• Behavioral changes such as pain, excessive licking or chewing at a wound, loss of appetite, or unusual tiredness
What to Do If You Suspect NWS If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to treat the wound at home. There are no safe home remedies. Your veterinarian will examine your pet and can collect and submit samples for official testing if NWS is suspected.
If you suspect a case, keep the animal where it is and wait for your veterinarian’s instructions, since human movement of infected animals is a primary way NWS spreads. You also should report suspicious cases directly to the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) veterinarian on call at 1-800-550-8242.
The Bottom Line
Check your pets regularly for wounds, keep them clean, and call your veterinarian right away if you see anything unusual. Early detection is critical, not just for your pet, but for the broader effort to protect Texas pets, livestock, wildlife, and people.
Justin James and Arora Thompson of Jonesboro announce the birth of their daughter, Ellie Mae James.
Ellie Mae was born on May 17 at Coryell Memorial Hospital Emergency Room. She weighed 6 pounds seven ounces and was 18.5 inches long.
She is welcomed home by her sister, Blakeleigh Ann James, age 3.
Maternal grandparents are Terry and Jen Thompson of Sterling, Colorado. Paternal grandparents are James and Crystal Gould of Jonesboro.
AUSTIN — Warmer weather across Texas means more time outdoors and more encounters with wildlife.
Spring and early summer are also when many species give birth and raise their young, which can lead to confusion when animals appear to be alone.
Each year, well-meaning Texans pick up young wildlife, especially fawns and baby birds, believing they have been abandoned. In most cases, that is not true. Removing these animals from the wild can do more harm than good and, in many cases, is against the law.
“People want to help, but intervening is often the worst thing you can do,” said Richard Heilbrun, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Wildlife Division Deputy Director. “Most young animals are not abandoned, their parents are nearby and will return. The best thing you can do is give them space.”
Under Texas law, it is illegal to possess most native wildlife without the proper permits. It is unlawful to take, capture, possess or attempt to relocate wildlife except as allowed by state regulations.
White-tailed deer fawning season typically begins in early to mid-May. Fawns are born with spotted coats that help them blend into their surroundings. Does will often leave their fawns hidden for hours at a time while they feed, returning periodically to nurse. A fawn found alone, lying quietly in grass or brush, is likely not abandoned.
Baby birds are also commonly mistaken for being abandoned. Many species, including doves, blue jays and mockingbirds, spend time on the ground as they learn to fly. These young birds, known as fledglings, may appear vulnerable but are still being fed and watched by their parents nearby. If the bird has feathers, open eyes and is moving around, it is likely in a normal stage of development and has not been abandoned. Remember, most native bird species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, so it’s important to avoid disturbing or injuring them.
The public is encouraged to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid approaching or handling animals. Getting too close can prevent a parent from returning and may place the young at greater risk.
Turtles are also frequently encountered this time of year, particularly on roadways. Remember, wild animals do not make good pets and removing them from their habitat can harm their survival and health If a wild animal appears sick, injured or orphaned, the first step is to contact a TPWD-permitted wildlife rehabilitator to see if they are able to receive that species. TPWD advises against attempting to handle or transport wildlife yourself.
While not currently in Texas, New World Screwworm has recently been detected about 60 miles from the Texas-Mexico border. Newborn mammals are very susceptible to infestations by NWS. If you see maggots on a live animal, immediately report the sighting to your local wildlife biologist. Early detection and reporting are key to managing and eradicating a NWS infestation.
Learn more about what to do upon encountering orphaned or injured wildlife on the TPWD Wildlife Division website. Tips from biologists regarding fawns and baby birds are available on the TPWD You-Tube channel.
101 N. Rice
PO Box 833
Hamilton, TX 76531
254-386-3145
