Lifestyle

Howard Payne University presented degrees to 187 graduates at Commencement ceremonies held in May for fall 2020 and spring 2021 graduates. Degrees were conferred by Dr. Cory Hines, HPU president, and other university personnel.

Texas State Senator Lois Kolkhorst will speak at Industry, Texas’ Celebrate America event on July 3 in Industry’s City Park at 725 Main Street. This day will also mark the 190th anniversary of Industry’s founding.

Last Monday morning, June 21, Combined Community Action came to Irene LeBlanc Pool in Sealy to giveaway box fans and cooling towels to eligible families. Residents could arrive at Cryan Park, stay in their car while filling out information then pickup fans and heat preventative items before being on their way. Visit CCAction.com or find Combined Community Action on Facebook for more information.

What an odd 15 months it’s been. The Friends of the San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site wanted to reassure stakeholders that things are starting to normalize. Hopefully, visitors return to the historic site in full swing this summer, or certainly by the fall if you’re waiting for cooler weather.

Betsy’s Bakery opened for business last week at 125 2nd Street in Sealy. Betsy Harlan and Jacob Haverlah, both life-long Sealy residents, own and operate the bakery and café that is open Tuesday-Sunday and offers breakfast and lunch options in addition to sweets.

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court Queen of Angels, had a second fundraiser June 4. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the court wasn’t able to have their bake sales with the KC’s Lenten Fish Fries.

Austin County readers chose their favorites from dozens of categories to determine the Best of the Best winners. Congratulations to all who received votes in this year’s competition and the race to find next year’s readers’ choice champions begins now!

The Austin County Sheriff’s Office debuted a new look Friday, June 18. Although the vehicles will remain the same, the ACSO uniforms now include a solid black shirt with a tan patch that identifies the agency. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Rhys Reichardt, Hunter Schumann and Avery Oliver were the recipients of the Austin County Livestock Association Scholarships at the recent meeting of the Association at the Cat Spring Hall. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Kyle and Holly Posey are excited to announce the birth of Liam James Posey, who was born April 29 at 7:39 p.m. He weighed 6 pounds and 3 ounces and measured 19.2 inches long..