Bastrop, Texas – Feed the Need Missions, a dedicated nonprofit ministry on a mission to feed people physically and spiritually in their communities, is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest initiative: the “Give Back Beef” program. This transformative program aims to create sustainable funding while providing communities with locally sourced, allnatural beef products.

Unity of the Brethren was first organized in Bohemia in 1457 by the followers of Jan Hus, born 1369 in Husinec. In 1402, he was elected rector of the university in Prague and became the preacher of Bethlehem Chapel. The four pillars of Jan Hus’s concept of patriotism were “love your neighbor as yourself.” His measure of an individual was based not on race or status, but rather upon one’s character. The second pillar is the willingness to stand up for what was right, honest and just. The third was seeing every nation as a portion of the whole of humanity, having the right to possess its own land with freedom to conduct its own affairs. The fourth was a compassionate interest in all people being sensitive to the oppressed.

The public is invited to attend a project kick-off meeting and join the Middle Yegua Creek Watershed Partnership on Jan. 9 in Giddings.

The winners have been announced for the Carmine Chamber of Commerce Lighting contest, which was held on Dec. 21.

In the residence division, First place, Gerald and Sidnie Byrket; Second place, Mr. and Mrs. Fernando Cerda; and Third place, Karen Springer.

In the business division, First place, Buck-Up Auction and Realty owned by Heather Kaspar; Second place, Darlene’s Custom Sewing owned by Darlene Etzel; and Third place, Martin Luther Lutheran Church.

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Are you a Texas high school student? Would you like to travel, experience a big city, visit historic landmarks, and meet new people? Perhaps you’d like to meet face-to-face with influential figures like U.S. representatives, or maybe you’re looking for an inspirational and educational experience in the company of fellow Texas teens.

M The Stray Gathering Cowboy Church hosted a beautiful candlelight service on Christmas Eve. Prior to the service they served hot cocoa, coffee, doughnuts, cookies and bread pudding to all those in attendance delight.

The annual Smith-McMillan NSDAR Chapter Christmas Luncheon was held at the Fritsch Auf! Valley Country Club. During the social prior to the program, members and guests mingled and perused the many beautiful Christmas raffle items whose sales benefit the chapter’s scholarship fund for area high school recipients. Regent Pamela Burke opened the program part of the luncheon at 11:30 a.m. along with Chaplain, Kathy Schatte in leading the DAR Ritual. Sherry Hebert accompanied on her on violin singing the National Anthem. Following the DAR Ritual, Regent Burke welcomed and recognized a special guest, Carol Lowe who is Director of District VII in Texas.

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Astro (Shepherd mix) and Herman (Retriever mix) are both around 2 years old. They are both neutered, current on vaccines, leash and kennel trained.