Smithville Mayor Arrested, Record Fish Caught

The former mayor of Smithville, Scott Saunders, Jr., was arrested on sexual assault of a child charges Monday, according to the city. Even though he won re-election in November, Saunders resigned in January, saying he wanted to take time to focus on his family, business and mental health after having a difficult 2020. According to court records, the charges stem from alleged incidents in June 2010 and May 2015.

The Shiner Gazette

Shiner’s Spoetzl Brewery announced that it officially reopened to the public as of April 30. That announcement comes of what’s been a nearly 15-month long closure of the local brewery brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

Giddings Times & News

A 93.3 lb and 78.8-inch long needlenose hybrid gar was landed after Kayla Goerlitz of Ledbetter shot it with a crossbow and reeled it in on May 2. The huge freshwater fish set the Lake Somerville record for the largest one ever caught.

New Ulm Enterprise

After 39 years in New Ulm, Ernie’s Quick Shop is closing. Ernie Gross is not sure when the last day in the station will be as of now he is selling down his supply of beer and cold drinks, but as of May 3 his regular fuel is already gone and only a bit of diesel remains. The gasoline tanks will be dug up next week. He replaced the tanks in 1990 and now they must again be replaced. The expense is just too great for that plus rising insurance costs.