COLUMBUS, TEXAS Cheers magazine

COLUMBUS FAMILY FUN

SUGAR HIGH

FALL / WINTER 2025

SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY CHOIR

EXPLORE COLUMBUS

BIG EASY RANCH

Cheers!

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page 22

f THE BEST OF COLUMBUS

WINGMANN TAXIDERMY, A Visit With George Barnes, RYAN’S DEVICE REPAIR Meet Steve & Grace McCullough, LADIES NIGHT OUT ... and so much more!

COLUMBUS PHYSICAL THERAPY COLUMBUS PHYSICAL THERAPY locations inPHYSICAL Columbus and EagleTHERAPY Lake COLUMBUS located at the new Columbus Wellness Center located at the new Columbus Wellness Center

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Welcome!

This year has been one of learning. Not through big declarations or milestones, but through small, steady lessons in patience. Patience with others. Patience with myself. I’ve learned to loosen my grip on the idea that things have to stay the same to still be good. Change is inevitable, but if I keep looking for the helpers, for the good in people, then I can stay soft in a world that sometimes feels too hard.

That’s what I see here in Columbus and all across Colorado County. I’ve lived here a long time. I raised my children here. I run my dogs in the parks here. And I still choose to call this place home.

MICHELLE BANSE Partner/Publisher

Some of my most peaceful moments happen with a leash in my hand, walking at Beason’s Park or through one of the many green spaces we’re lucky to have. These parks are more than grass and trails. They’re where we show up, quietly and faithfully, for ourselves and each other.

This season, I don’t know exactly what I’m letting go of, but I do know I’m learning to carry things differently. I’m learning to pause, to notice, and to not rush past the small things that are actually everything. There’s a lot to be proud of in Columbus lately. I see new businesses opening their doors in old buildings, blending history with fresh beginnings. I love seeing familiar faces at festivals and downtown markets, where this small town opens up a little wider and lets us all in again.

The Columbus, Texas “Cheers” magazine is published

by Texas-based Trips Publications, a publisher with a focus on small towns throughout Texas. To view all of the towns in the Trips Publications family, visit tripspublications.com or call 979-725-3080 to request copies.

Michelle Banse Partner/Publisher Lori Olivarez-Ligues Partner/Sales Kara Kleimann Victoria Frederick Reporter/Photographer Lyra Quinn Editorial Assistant

And then there are the people who quietly shape this community in lasting ways. Like Steven Theiss, who recently retired as the longtime H-E-B store manager. He greeted me by name every time I walked in. He always made time.

He always smiled. The new manager has big shoes to fill.

Brooke Ligues Bridget Helfrich Sales Assistants

Or George Barnes, whose presence in the meat department was once featured in a Local Spotlight and appears again here on page 42. George suffered a major health setback with multiple strokes. And yet, through it all, he continues to post updates filled with faith and strength. He wrote recently, “Having multiple strokes leaves you with good days and bad days. And you fight your butt off to get through those days. BUT GOD! That’s all I will say! Amen.”

Sandra Weeber Deborah Stolar Distribution

I also find joy in the little moments, like walking my whippet through the farmer’s market on the courthouse square, laughing at his antics while we shop for dog treats, veggies, and handmade soap that smells like heaven. I get to tell people about his breed, hear their guesses (greyhound?), and connect over something as simple as a shared love of animals.

Contributors Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Tracey Wegenhoft, George Barnes, Shannon Barnes, Katie Wessels, Steve McCullough, Grace McCullough, Ryan Fedako, Ryan Almanza, Billy Brown, Cristina Monge, Omer Khan, Rick Walla

If I could whisper one thing into the heart of every reader, it would be this: Be good to each other. Everyone is struggling with something. We may not believe the same or vote the same, but we can still care. That’s what Colorado County does best. Neighbors helping neighbors. That’s what makes it home.

Editorial 979-725-3080 michelle@tripspublications.com

Welcome to Columbus, Texas.

Located between Austin and Houston, as well as San Antonio and Houston, Columbus is a small community that takes pride in its achievements.

This year has been particularly significant. The Columbus High School football team advanced to the state playoffs and secured the state championship. Furthermore, the Columbus Junior Little League Softball team traveled to Washington State, returning as the Junior League Softball World Series Champions.

LORI OLIVAREZ-LIGUES Partner/Sales

In addition to its acclaimed sporting events, the city features a range of attractions that consistently draw large audiences. Notably, the Magnolia Days Festival, formerly known as the Magnolia Homes Tour, occurs each May. Other esteemed events include Colorado Thunder by the Colorado and the Colorado County Fair, both of which attract substantial attendance and are highly regarded within the region.

Columbus may appeal to travelers seeking a brief stopover or weekend getaway. The area provides diverse dining venues, retail shops, and places for refreshment, making it an excellent choice for visitors.

We invite you to visit Columbus this autumn for a day or weekend experience. Be sure to observe the historic oak trees, many of which are prominently located in the center of the streets.

3 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

Advertising 979-451-0826 lori@tripspublications.com 406 W. Main Street, Suite 105 Weimar, Texas 78962 979-725-3080 tripspublications.com Printed in Mexico Facebook: Trips Publications

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AREA FAVORITES LOCAL TREASURES

Places to Explore in Columbus, Texas EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF COLUMBUS WITH THESE LOCAL GEMS The Santa Claus Museum in Columbus opened in 1990 with the donation of Mary Elizabeth Youens Hopkins’ Santa collection.

What began as 2,500 pieces has grown to more than 5,000 including figurines, dolls, artwork, music boxes and memorabilia made from wood, china, fabric and other materials.

Highlights include a five-foot department store Santa, Coca-Cola Santas painted by Haddon Sundblom, and works by Norman Rockwell and Thomas Nast. The museum has expanded several times and today stands as one of only two Santa-themed museums in the country.

Santa Claus Museum, 604 Washington St., Columbus Website: santamuseum.org The Columbus Country Market is held on the last Saturday of every month from March through November, running from 9 a.m. to noon at the historic courthouse square in downtown Columbus.

Visitors can browse a vibrant selection of fresh produce, baked goods, breakfast tacos, hot coffee, handmade crafts, plants, local honey, soaps and more, all offered by community vendors.

Columbus Country Market, 400 Spring St., Columbus Website: columbusFMtx.org Grand Oaks Antiques & Gifts offers a curated mix of new and antique décor and giftware from more than 30 dealer booths.

Shoppers will find fashion accessories, baby apparel, artisanal knitted and crocheted pieces, Watkins products, guitars and accessories, as well as unique home furnishings. The store combines small-town charm with an eclectic, well-styled display supported by chandeliers and thoughtful layouts.

From top: Santa Claus Museum – A display case showcases part of the museum’s collection of more than 5,000 Santas in Columbus. Columbus Country Market – Shoppers browse colorful vendor tents at the monthly market on the courthouse square. Grand Oaks Antiques & Gifts – Vintage finds and home décor fill the shelves at the Milam Street shop in downtown Columbus.

6 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

AREA FAVORITES Hometown Goods, just down the street, houses multiple vendors offering a range of merchandise including women’s and children’s clothing, toys and games, dollhouse miniatures, antique French and English furniture, and industrial-style modern pieces.

Grand Oaks Antiques & Gifts, 1034 Milam St., Columbus Website: grandoaksantiques.com Hometown Goods 1008 Milam St., Columbus, TX 78934 The Silver Barn opened in 2008 and has become a go‑to spot in Columbus for unique gifts, home décor, tabletop accessories and Texas‑themed treats. The shop also showcases children’s apparel and bath-and-body items, offering a well-curated mix of merchandise in a friendly, small‑town setting. The store briefly relocated before returning to Columbus in 2019, cementing its role as a local favorite.

The Silver Barn, 521 Walnut St., Columbus Website: thesilverbarn.com The Nesbitt Memorial Library serves as Columbus’s municipal library and stands as a hub for reading, research and community programs. Named for the Nesbitt family who funded its construction, the library opened in 1979 and later expanded in 1987 to include an archival vault and a Texas Room for local history collections.

Patrons can access traditional and digital library resources such as TexShare databases, Libby e‑books, and local history archives including a robust genealogical and photograph collection. A large doll collection is displayed in the children’s section, offering a unique attraction to all visitors.

Nesbitt Memorial Library, 529 Washington St., Columbus Website: www.columbustexaslibrary.net The Live Oak Art Center serves as the only dedicated visual arts venue in Columbus, offering free admission in a historic setting. Founded in 1954 as the Live Oak Art Club, it acquired the Victorian-era Brunson Building in 1986, launching a permanent home for rotating exhibitions, classes, workshops and an on-site art and photography library.

Housed in what once was a saloon and hardware store, the center hosts about ten exhibitions annually featuring both emerging and established artists, along with community education programs.

Live Oak Art Center, 1014 Milam St., Columbus Website: liveoakartcenter.org Continued on page 8.

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From top: The Silver Barn – Shoppers find gifts, décor and specialty items inside the downtown Columbus store.

Nesbitt Memorial Library – The local library is a hub of activity and a resource for all.

Live Oak Art Center – The historic Brunson Building houses the nonprofit art center on Milam Street in Columbus.

AREA FAVORITES - continued from page 7 Frontier Coffee, also known as Frontier Rodeo Coffee Co., serves the Columbus community from its flagship storefront at 815 Walnut Street. The shop sources 100 percent Arabica beans, artisan-roasted blends with names like Bareback, Saddle Bronc and Bull Rider, and strives to bring “the spirit of the west in every cup”.

In addition to specialty coffee, the café offers bakery items, grab‑and‑go lunches, breakfast fare and extends a welcoming, laid‑back atmosphere perfect for early risers and regulars alike.

Frontier Coffee, 815 Walnut St., Columbus Website: frontierrodeocoffee.com Maria’s Mexican Café is a family‑owned staple in Columbus since 1996, beloved for all‑day service of Mexican‑American comfort food including homestyle breakfast plates, tacos, gorditas and a lunch buffet. Diners praise the flavorful breakfast tacos and the welcoming atmosphere, with casual dine‑in, patio seating and a drive‑thru available to accommodate every schedule.

Maria’s Mexican Café, 1221 Fannin St. Website: mariasrestaurant.com Dairy Cone is a nostalgic burger stand and outdoor diner that has been a Columbus staple since opening in 1950. The menu features made-to-order cheeseburgers, chicken and shrimp baskets, floats, soft-serve ice cream and more in a casual setting with outdoor seating and drive-thru service. Locals praise its hometown atmosphere, friendly staff and freshly prepared roadside-style fare.

The diner operates Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The restaurant is especially known for its award-winning burgers, which have been voted the best in Colorado County. Their beef is ground fresh daily, giving the burgers a reputation for quality and flavor that has made Dairy Cone a local landmark for generations of families and travelers passing through.

Dairy Cone, 836 Walnut St., Columbus

From top: Frontier Coffee Co. offers specialty coffee drinks, fresh pastries and grab-and-go breakfasts from its location on Walnut Street in Columbus. Maria’s Mexican Café serves homestyle Mexican-American comfort food, including breakfast tacos, gorditas and a lunch buffet, in a casual, family-friendly setting. Dairy Cone is a longtime Columbus favorite known for burgers, baskets and soft-serve ice cream. The restaurant has been a community landmark since 1950.

8 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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BOUNDLESS ADVENTURE

Big Easy Ranch FROM WORLD-CLASS GOLF AND HUNTING TO FINE DINING AND SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY, THE 2,000-ACRE RETREAT NEAR COLUMBUS BLENDS LUXURY WITH CAMARADERIE IN A ONE-OF-A-KIND OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

10 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY VICTORIA FREDERICK

W

ithin a short drive from the main streets of Columbus, Texas, among winding roads dotted with sprawling oak trees and grazing horses, sits a one-of-a-kind sporting paradise in the heart of the Texas foothills.

Big Easy Ranch spans 2,000 scenic acres and is an exclusive, members-only sanctuary that elevates outdoor adventure and leisure into an art form. Luxury is not just a promise but a standard woven into every experience, from trophy deer hunts and championship golf to renowned culinary moments. One trip through the front gate is enough to see why it is considered a sporting club like no other.

The story of Big Easy Ranch begins with Billy Brown, a Louisiana native who built a career in the oil and gas industry. The ranch was first a private escape, but as Brown entertained family, friends and colleagues, his vision grew. He dreamed of a gathering place that blended Southern hospitality, world-class outdoor sports and the camaraderie he valued most. With encouragement from those around him, Brown turned that vision into reality, creating a retreat where members could step away from the bustle of city life and reconnect with the outdoors.

Hunting and fishing have always been a foundation of the property.

A pivotal chapter in its transformation came in 2020, when Brown asked acclaimed golf architect Chet Williams to return. Williams had previously designed a par-3 course at the ranch, and this time was tasked with creating an 18-hole championship course, aptly named The Covey. The goal was to build something unmatched in Texas, allowing the natural landscape to guide the flow of play.

Williams spent months walking the land, studying its contours and designing holes that highlighted rolling hills, water features and native grasses. The result is a modern marvel that blends seamlessly with its surroundings.

The Covey is noted for being generous off the tee but strategically complex around the greens. Environmental stewardship was central to the project. More than 700 native trees were planted, and careful attention was paid to preserving existing natural features. The effort produced a course celebrated for both its playability and beauty.

Recognition soon followed when Golf Digest named The Covey the “Best New Private Golf Course in America 2025.”

Top photo: Golfers enjoy a round at The Covey, the 18-hole championship course at Big Easy Ranch in Columbus. Middle photo: Hunters take aim in one of the outdoor blinds at Big Easy Ranch, a property known for its worldclass sporting experiences. Bottom photo: A whitetail deer pauses at the feeder on the grounds of Big Easy Ranch, where wildlife and native habitat are carefully preserved. Courtesy photos.

11 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

EXPLORE COLUMBUS - continued from page 11

Golf is only part of the ranch’s appeal. Mornings bring anglers to the pond for peaceful rainbow trout fishing, while afternoons may be spent on the shooting grounds during popular European pheasant drives. Guided hunts, kayaking on the lake and fine dining at the Camellia Grill, which offers a Louisiana and Texas-inspired fusion menu, round out the experience. For the outdoorsman, possibilities are nearly endless.

Community also remains at the heart of Big Easy Ranch. With 150 employees, 45 of whom work exclusively on golf course maintenance and operations, the ranch has become the second-largest employer in Colorado County. Brown and his team support local revitalization through the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, investing in people and projects that benefit the wider community. For Brown, good people make everything possible, and first-class service means never settling for less.

The spirit of Big Easy Ranch is as much about camaraderie as it is about raising standards in outdoor experiences. Named for Brown’s hometown of New Orleans, long nicknamed “The Big Easy” for its effortless charm, the ranch channels that same welcoming spirit and laid-back luxury for members and their guests. Here, life slows down, friendships grow and every sunrise is an invitation to savor the extraordinary. With championship golf, world-class sporting adventures and a taste of genuine Southern hospitality, Big Easy Ranch is a reminder that the good life is not just found. It is built and graciously shared in the Texas foothills.

The Big Easy Ranch is located at 2400 Brunes Mill Road, Columbus, and online at bigeasyranch.com.

Above, the windmill and street signs mark the entrance to Big Easy Ranch in Columbus, a 2,000-acre property known for championship golf, sporting adventures, and Southern hospitality. Page 10, sunrise casts a warm glow over Big Easy Ranch in Columbus, where 2,000 acres of rolling landscape provide a setting for golf, hunting, fishing, and fine dining. Courtesy photos.

12 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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VOICES UNITED

Columbus Community Choir FOUNDED IN 2003, THE CHOIR UNITES VOICES FROM ACROSS THE COMMUNITY FOR A FREE CHRISTMAS CONCERT THAT HAS BECOME A BELOVED HOLIDAY TRADITION IN COLUMBUS

MERRILL AND ELAINE LUMAN

When December settles in Columbus, the air turns crisp and the familiar preparations begin with lights strung along Main Street and the Christmas tree raised in Courthouse Square. While the decorations signal the start of the holiday season, one local organization has been preparing for months for its largest event of the year. The sound of the Columbus Community Choir tuning up inside First United Methodist Church signals the beginning of a cherished tradition. To locals, this Christmas concert is not just another holiday event but a community gathering that brings people together note by note, year after year.

Founded in 2003 by Merrill and Elaine Luman, the Columbus Community Choir began with a simple vision: to share the joy of music with as many people as possible, regardless of religious background or vocal training. Today the choir ranges between 40 and 50 singers. By day they are electricians, plumbers, nurses, teachers, doctors and retirees, but in practice they stand together as tenors, basses, altos and sopranos, united by a shared gift of song.

Director Stephen Spanihel has led the group for the past five years, shaping each program

Above, the Columbus Community Choir performs its annual Christmas concert, a tradition that brings together singers from across the community each holiday season. Courtesy photo.

14 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY VICTORIA FREDERICK

“WE DON’T HOLD AUDITIONS. IF YOU FEEL IT IN YOUR SOUL, YOU SHOULD COME OUT AND SING.” and cultivating the welcoming spirit that defines the ensemble. Committee member Rick Walla said the group’s inclusiveness sets it apart. “We don’t hold auditions,” he says. “If you feel it in your soul, you should come out and sing.” That open-door policy has made the choir a truly ecumenical ensemble, with members representing many faiths, bound together by a simple love of music.

The choir presents two major concerts each year, one for Palm Sunday and the much-anticipated Christmas concert each December. Both performances are free to the public. The community responds with enthusiasm, with 500 to 600 people filling the auditorium at Columbus High School to hear the newest production and music collection the choir has worked on for months.

Promotion for the concert is a grassroots effort, supported by flyers, newspaper ads and announcements on local radio station KULM. Word of mouth carries the invitation even further. For many residents, the question is not whether they will attend but how many friends and family they will bring along.

Continued on page 16.

Top Left Photo: Accompanist Vicki Glynn lends her talent at the piano, guiding voices with steady harmony during rehearsals.

Courtesy photo. Right Photo: The historic First United Methodist Church in Columbus stands as both a spiritual home and a performance space for the community choir.

15 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

GET IN THE SPIRIT - continued from page 15 On concert day, the auditorium hums with anticipation as guests are welcomed with a medley of holiday music. The choir is accompanied by six to twelve instrumentalists, including local musicians and a few from neighboring towns.

Several soloists are featured throughout the program, their voices blending seamlessly with the larger chorus, while narration by Russell Thomas and Fred Olsen weaves story and song together to bring the Christmas narrative to life.

Though the production is polished, it relies entirely on donations to cover expenses such as professional lighting, sound and music licensing.

Community support has sustained the choir year after year, ensuring the concert continues. Just as important as financial contributions are the singers themselves, guided by the choir’s motto: “Reaching Out Through Music.” New members are always welcome. Those interested need only reach out to First United Methodist Church to be connected with a committee member and invited to the next rehearsal.

No auditions. No barriers. Just the belief that music can bring people together, heal and inspire.

As the final notes of “Silent Night” echo and the audience heads into the winter night, it is clear the Columbus Community Choir has once again woven the true spirit of Christmas through every voice, instrument and heart in the room.

This year’s production, “The Ballad of Bethlehem,” will be presented on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. at Columbus High School.

Learn more about the Columbus Community Choir at First United Methodist Church, 419 Washington Street, Columbus or online at columbusfumc.org.

Top Photo: Members of the Columbus Community Choir gather for a group portrait at the 2003 Fourth of July celebration, a community event the choir no longer performs.

Middle Photo: The choir performs in full voice with instrumental accompaniment, bringing festive music to life on stage.

Bottom Photo: The Columbus Community Choir presents its annual holiday concert, filling the stage with song and spirit.

Courtesy photos.

16 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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Sugar High COLUMBUS’ NEWEST BOBA SHOP BLENDS FUN, FLAVOR AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT INTO A DESTINATION WHERE KIDS, FAMILIES AND NEIGHBORS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME Some business owners are made for small-town life. They are driven by a passion for their customers, both new and returning, promising a quality product and a welcoming atmosphere. Their success is the town’s success, and they are devoted to the people they serve. At first glance, one might not expect a new boba tea shop and its owners to embody these qualities. Yet for Columbus’ newest sweet destination, Sugar High, service and community are at the heart of everything.

Although Sugar High is not Omer Khan and Amir Bashir’s first venture into business ownership, it quickly became clear that it filled a need in the community. “There was no place in town for just kids in mind,” Omer said. Inspired by that idea, and by his sister’s comment that there were no boba tea shops nearby, he set out to create a space where food, fun and connection could thrive.

One step inside makes it clear Omer’s vision was about more than offering a product. It was about creating an experience as soon as the door opened. Neon signs glow, casting a vibrant, Instagram-worthy light. The smell of waffles fills the air as smoothie blenders hum in the background. Walls are lined with imported toys, candies and quirky treasures, so full of detail that visitors cannot take it all in at once. “You should see the kids when they come in here,” Omer said. “They just smile.”

From top, a cup of boba tea is sealed at Sugar High in Columbus, offering a colorful blend of fun and flavor. Owners Omer Khan and Amir Bashir, along with community members, celebrate the ribbon cutting for Sugar High, Columbus’ newest destination for boba tea, desserts and frozen yogurt. Courtesy photo.

18 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY VICTORIA FREDERICK It is easy to see why. Beyond the décor, the menu is a colorful celebration of treats.

Along with a wide selection of milk and fruit boba teas, Sugar High offers housemade frozen yogurt, including a rotating mystery flavor, with more than 40 toppings to mix and match. For something truly unique, there are taco waffles, a playful twist that tastes as good as it sounds.

Omer’s creativity does not stop there. To enhance the kid-focused atmosphere, claw machines and electronic prize games are being added to create an arcade-inspired wall. The menu also continues to expand.

One upcoming item was inspired by a dessert Omer discovered while traveling.

With help from a local bakery, he plans to introduce realistic fruit-shaped cupcakes, a unique addition designed to catch the eye and delight customers.

As with any small town, community is central. Columbus has embraced Sugar High with enthusiasm, and many regulars are already familiar faces. Having lived in the city for two years, Omer has worked to give back by sourcing locally whenever possible. Décor pieces, baked goods and fixtures have been purchased from area businesses. “Being a business owner also

means being a customer,” he said. Omer even offered a sneak peek at his next venture, a vintage-style bar and cigar lounge that will open right next door. Like Sugar High, it is designed to be another welcoming and unique addition to the Columbus community.

Sugar High is more than a business. It is proof that a simple idea can flourish into a must-see destination. It is a place where families gather, kids smile, and fun and flavor go hand in hand. With Omer’s constant stream of new ideas and the town’s support, the future of Sugar High looks every bit as sweet as its treats.

Sugar High is located at 1420 Walnut Street in Columbus and can be followed on Facebook @ColumbusTX-SugarHigh.

Top photo: The “Boba Land” wall at Sugar High in Columbus provides a colorful backdrop for photos and adds to the shop’s playful atmosphere.

Bottom photo: The counter at Sugar High displays a menu of boba teas, frozen yogurt and desserts, alongside shelves filled with toys and treats that give the shop its vibrant character.

19 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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TASTE OF COLUMBUS

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Lucy’s Wine & Coffee Bar FROM ECUADOR TO TEXAS, FROM EQUESTRIAN TO RESTAURATEUR – CRISTINA MONGE SHARES HER PERSONAL JOURNEYS In small towns, word of mouth often travels faster than the Wi-Fi connection. And curiosity is a public virtue. Therefore, it came as no surprise when the arrival of a new café in downtown Columbus was met with excitement and curiosity.

As customers enter Lucy’s Wine & Coffee Bar it is almost impossible to imagine that the physical building was a health and fitness center for the past three decades. The completely renovated interior is welcoming and fun. With a lively mix of furnishings and textures like raw wood, modern lighting and cozy seating areas, Lucy’s has a vibe that is unique and exciting.

When Cristina Monge introduced herself as the owner of Lucy’s Wine and Coffee Bar, the most common question followed, “Who is Lucy?” With a grin, Cristina answered, “My mom is Lucia or Lucy. In Ecuador, she is called Lucia, but here it is Lucy.”

Cover: Cristina Monge enjoys a cup of fresh Ecuadorian coffee and a slice of Lucy’s famous made-from-scratch key lime pie.

Above, Lucy’s offers cozy areas to sip and enjoy as well as conventional table seating for comfortable dining.

22 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY KARA KLEIMANN

“OUR FOCUS IS ON PIES; THAT’S HOW IT ALL STARTED. WE WERE THE FIRST PIE HOUSE IN ECUADOR AND SOUTH AMERICA.” Born and raised in Ecuador, Cristina and her family made the move from South America to North America and the United States in 2023, deciding to settle in Texas. “Our plan was to open a restaurant in the United States,” Cristina began. They came to the Houston area on the advice of a realtor friend and ended up finding a building in Sealy. Cristina continued, “There was a shop in Sealy that was open, and my mom said, ‘this is the place I want’ and my mom is the type of person that gets inspired. It was like spiritual for her.”

Cristina explained the path her mother took to becoming a restauranteur. From having a passion for cooking and baking to hosting a successful cooking show to opening the first Lucía Pie House & Grill restaurant in Quito, Ecuador in 2010. According to Cristina, “Our focus is on pies; that’s how it all started. We were the first pie house in Ecuador and South America.” Today, there are nine Lucía establishments in Ecuador – five restaurants and four coffee shops.

Cristina was not involved in the restaurant business initially. Her original passion was horses. After high school, Cristina studied Equine Science at Melbourne Institute in Australia for two years.

While she was in Australia, her mother opened the original Lucia Pie House & Grill in Ecuador.

“When I came back home, I started working with horses,” Cristina recalled, “but I would fill in when Mom needed a server on the night shift … I started as a server and then as a supervisor.” When the manager needed to be replaced, Cristina told her mother, “I’ll manage it until you find the right person.” The “right person” turned out to be Cristina. In a short time, her mother opened a second restaurant, with three more to follow. Then, in 2015, Cristina opened her first café – Lucia Coffee Shop – in Ecuador.

Clearly Cristina’s imminent equestrian career had taken a sharp turn. However, her passion for horses proved to be extremely beneficial since Cristina met her now husband, Xavier Ayala, while working with horses. A fellow horse trainer at the time, Xavier continues to work with horses here in Texas; he is also a skilled architect.

Continued on page 24.

Top photo: Bacon, Pear and Bleu Cheese Flatbread is a tasty example of Lucy’s fresh and flavorful menu options.

Bottom photo: Cristina and Xavier are always ready to greet and serve customers.

23 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

TASTE OF COLUMBUS - continued from page 23

In their search for a new home with attached commercial space, the couple found and purchased the two-story property at 1024 Milam Street in downtown Columbus. “When we bought this place, my family thought we were crazy because there was so much work to do,” Cristina admitted. “It was a lot. And the building is really old, from 1895.”

Determined and not afraid of a challenge, Cristina and Xavier quickly transformed the antiquated building into its current stylish condition. “Xavier did the blueprints; my uncle is the interior designer,” Cristina declared, “and we made it happen. We got it done.”

While never a small task, putting a restaurant together is truly Cristina’s forte. Decisions about food, drinks and menus come naturally for her; the key is real ingredients and simplicity. In her own words, “It’s about making the truth about things. It’s just normal magic.” She went on to explain that starting with real ingredients and not skipping steps are basic standards for creating truly good food and drinks. For example, Cristina clarified, “we make fresh whipped cream from real cream. We don’t buy it readymade in a can. … And, we have our own brand of coffee from Ecuador.” The coffees served at Lucy’s are all naturally sourced in South America. Not cutting corners and genuine farm-to-table products are priorities for Cristina.

There is no doubt about Cristina’s passion for true ingredients and her frustration with society’s callousness when it comes to food preparation. She shared this simple anecdote about shopping for

groceries: “You can go to the supermarket, and you can buy a cut apple. But, you know once you cut an apple, it turns brown. So, why are those apple slices clear and white? They use chemicals.

Why don’t you just buy an apple, and cut it yourself? It is such a short step.” Everything served at Lucy’s is made from scratch with real ingredients, no shortcuts.

If a versatile menu offering handmade food and drinks, friendly servers and a fashionable atmosphere appeal to you, check out Lucy’s Wine & Coffee Bar at 1024 Milam Street, Columbus.

Top left, Lucy’s is a local favorite for fresh lunch options. You’ll want to arrive early and stay late.

Top right, barista and waitress, Erick and Krystal, are a great team for customers needing their morning caffeine.

Bottom right, served with a smile, Lucy’s offers a variety of sweet and/or savory crepes (made from scratch, of course).

24 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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ON THE HUNT

Wingmann Taxidermy RYAN AND ELENA ALMANZA PROUDLY AFFIRM THEIR ‘BUSINESS IS FOR THE BIRDS’ Some people know their passion early in life. Others find it much later, while fervently searching or when least expected. Ryan Almanza inadvertently stumbled into his life passion on a casual venture with a friend.

The inception of Wingmann Taxidermy began about six years ago following a waterfowl hunt with friends. “One of my buddies shot a really nice pintail and wanted to get it mounted. So, I went with him to the taxidermist,” Ryan shared. “I had never walked into a taxidermy shop before. I was amazed by all the mounts.” Thus began Ryan’s path to becoming a taxidermist and business owner.

“It stayed on my mind,” Ryan continued, “a few days later I got on YouTube to learn how to do it.”

With no formal training, Ryan mounted his first duck, a bluewinged teal, by following YouTube videos. “I made the neck three

inches too long,” Ryan admits, “that was the only weird thing.”

Ryan was not deterred from trying again, and his second mount was a complete success. “I did a redhead for a friend, and he actually paid me for it,” Ryan declared. The idea of making some extra money, especially while doing something he enjoyed, was extremely appealing to Ryan. “I searched and found a taxidermy school in Llano,” Ryan explained. “It was a six-week, hands-on program. We were there almost every day.”

Summer 2020 was a busy time for Ryan and his wife, Elena. In July, Ryan graduated from taxidermy school on the exact same day the couple closed on the purchase of a new home. Fortunately, the Almanzas’ new property included a structure that would become Ryan’s workshop for Wingmann Taxidermy. “I was working out of the garage for a little while and fixing this place up,” Ryan explained looking around. “Once I got this finished, it was a whole lot better.”

Above, Ryan Almanza puts the finishing touches on a Mallard drake mount.

28 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY KARA KLEIMANN

“THE BEST THING ABOUT IT ALL FOR ME IS SEEING A CUSTOMER’S EXCITEMENT WHEN GETTING HIS BIRD BACK” Running a business is no small undertaking. For Ryan and Elena the biggest hurdle continues to be how to distribute their time between work and family and business. “This is our first-ever business,” Elena started. “Sometimes it’s hard to balance everything. We both have full-time jobs, and we have a baby.” Therefore, Ryan puts in most of his taxidermy hours after the rest of the family is asleep.

Tossing a glance at Ryan, Elena attested, “This man lives for taxidermy. He will literally stay up working into the wee morning hours to get clients their birds.” While the couple has discussed turning the side gig into a fulltime venture, Ryan and Elena agree they are not ready for that step yet.

Waterfowl can be mounted in a wide variety of different positions. When determining the best pose for each harvested bird, Ryan considers the customer’s preference first and then adds the breed and condition of the bird.

“The truth is every bird has its own challenge,” Ryan confirmed. “No two are exactly alike.” Elena chimed in, “Sometimes the stage the bird is in, like molting, makes it harder for him. It may not even look like it’s molting until he starts working with it.” Nodding, Ryan agreed that the quality and quantity of plumage greatly affects the mounting process as well as the end result.

To date, Wingmann Taxidermy is an undeniable success.

Ryan has increased his output every year since he opened, with a current running total of nearly 1,000 mounts in less than five years. It is not just about the bird or mount for Ryan, it’s mostly about the customer. “The best thing about it all for me is seeing a customer’s excitement when getting his bird back,” Ryan confessed. “When kids walk in and are excited about it, that’s even better. I really enjoy that.” Smiling, Ryan concluded, “and the very best is when someone new to this comes in, and they get excited. I just love to see that.” Those are flashback moments for Ryan, reminding him of his own amazement and enthusiasm when he visited that first taxidermy shop years ago.

Perhaps the most unique request for a mount came from one of Ryan’s family members. Ryan chuckled, “My uncle wanted his duck laying on its back, holding a bottle of Tito’s vodka.” That mount and many more can be viewed on Instagram and Facebook at Wingmann Taxidermy.

29 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

Top, The Almanza family – Ryan, Elena, and Aniya (5 months old).

Left, lesser scaup duck mounted in flight.

Courtesy photo.

Bottom, special pins are used on this Bufflehead duck to keep feathers in place until the mounting process is complete.

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IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

TECH RENEW

Ryan’s Device Repair HOW THE RE-DISCOVERY OF A HIDDEN TALENT BECAME RYAN FEDAKO’S DESTINY Ryan Fedako, owner of Ryan’s Device Repair, spends most of his days repairing and building electronic devices.

However, aside from his business, Ryan does not fit the stereotype of a technology guru. In fact, Ryan found success as a baseball player and a musician before settling into the tech scene.

At the young age of 9, Ryan executed his first computer repair. “As a little kid I would open things up, take the parts out and put them back together,” Ryan began.

“When I was in third grade, my dad’s computer had a popup warning every time he turned it on. It said something about a file that could not be found in the system or was not working right.” Like most 9-year-old boys, Ryan took it upon himself to mess with the computer. However, unlike most 9-year-olds, Ryan successfully resolved the problem. “I don’t know why I thought I could do it,” Ryan recalled, “but one day I just sat down and started hunting for that file. I found it, deleted it, and fixed it. Then, as if it was no big deal, I told my dad, ‘Hey, I fixed it.’”

After that initial repair, Ryan ignored his innate comprehension of technology for more than a decade while other talents consumed his time and energy. Much of Ryan’s time during junior high and high school was spent on the baseball field. During his senior year, Ryan taught himself to play the bass guitar and formed a garage band with some of his buddies. “We started playing in little dives in San Antonio, singing about broken hearts and stuff,” Ryan chuckled.

32 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

From top, Ryan works on a customer’s laptop; a sample of devices available at Ryan’s Device Repair.

BY KARA KLEIMANN

While attending college in Corpus Christi, Ryan joined The Scott Wiggins Band as the bass guitarist. The band relocated to New Braunfels a few years later, a move that proved to be especially fortunate for Ryan. “One night we were playing at Tavern in the Gruene, and I looked out in the crowd and saw three cute blondes,” Ryan confessed. Laughing, he continued, “I remember pointing them out to John (the drummer) and saying, ‘let’s talk to them during the break.’” Ryan had no idea that during that break, he would meet his future wife, Casey Pavlicek. And neither Ryan nor Casey would have predicted their impending future in Casey’s hometown of Columbus.

Ryan went back to college to finish what he had abandoned years earlier. It was then that Ryan’s forgotten knack for technology resurfaced.

“I needed an iPhone, but I didn’t have enough money to buy one,” Ryan explained. “A friend gave me an old iPhone; it had a broken screen and wasn’t really working.” Ryan not only fixed the phone, but he tapped into his comfort zone with electronics that had lain dormant since childhood. “When I fixed that first iPhone, I remembered that feeling,” Ryan stated. “That’s when I changed my major to computer science.”

After Ryan embraced his own talent with technology, family and friends were quick to benefit from it as well. Ryan was frequently asked, “Can you fix this?” As he completed his computer science degree, Ryan began taking on small repair jobs in his spare time. In 2012, as word spread and business increased, Ryan’s Device Repair was born. Ryan rented a small space north of town for one year before moving to his current location on Fannin Street.

Continued on page 34.

Above, Ryan, Casey, Piper and Andi pose for a quick family photo in the store. Courtesy photo by Ryan Fedako.

33 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD - continued from page 33 “I KNOW I COULD MAKE MORE MONEY AT A BIG TECH COMPANY, BUT I CHOSE MORE TIME AND LESS MONEY.”

Almost any business owner has at least one story of threat or misfortune to tell; Ryan is no exception. Ryan and Casey were jolted from their sleep one night when a police officer knocked on their door at 3 a.m. “Our daughter was like 2 years old at the time, and she was staying at Casey’s parents for the night,” Ryan disclosed. “I knew it was the police, and I was scared to death something had happened to her. So when I opened the door and he told me someone had broken into the store, I sighed, ‘oh, thank God.’ Honestly, I was relieved.” Being robbed is never a pleasant experience, but Ryan was able to put it all into perspective.

On the lighter side, Ryan has several stories of device mishaps that call him into action. Cellphones, especially, meet with bizarre fates like falling in the toilet, being driven over or chewed on by a pet.

In many cases, Ryan is able to replace parts and repair the phone.

In some cases, however, the device is unfixable and requires replacement. “I had a guy come in once,” Ryan shared, “who had dropped his phone all the way to the bottom of a molasses bin.

That one was not recoverable. So I sold him another phone.”

Ryan’s computer science degree qualifies him for jobs and careers

that would bring in larger salaries than his small-town business.

However, in his own words, Ryan said, “I know I could make more money at a big tech company, but I chose more time and less money.” For Ryan, there are great benefits to running his own business. “I’m able to help raise the kids with Casey and decide my own hours,” Ryan confirmed. “That’s important for me. Plus, I like it. I like working for myself.”

Having a local business allows Ryan time to be more involved in the community, too. For example, Ryan spent seven years on the Chamber committee that plans the annual Magnolia Days festival. “I was in charge of the music,” Ryan described, “booking the bands and talent, and then managing the stage during the entire weekend.” Currently, Ryan serves on the Columbus Little League board and is an enthusiastic softball coach, placing high importance on good sportsmanship and committed players.

If you need a device repaired or are in the market for something new, go see Ryan Fedako at Ryan’s Device Repair, 1139 Fannin Street, Columbus or find him online at www.ryansdevicerepair. com.

Above, from left, Ryan Fedako of Ryan’s Device Repair works on a laptop at his shop, where he specializes in restoring computers, phones, and other electronics; before and after: iPhone on left as customer brought it in; iPhone on right as Ryan returned it.

34 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

COMMUNITY HEART

Meet Steve and Grace McCullough THROUGH DECADES OF SERVICE AND QUIET LEADERSHIP, STEVE AND GRACE MCCULLOUGH HAVE HELPED SHAPE COLUMBUS INTO A COMMUNITY DEFINED

BY KINDNESS AND CONNECTION

Above, Steve and Grace McCullough have dedicated decades of service to Columbus, helping shape the community through kindness and quiet leadership. Right, Steve McCullough speaks at a Lions Club event, reflecting his longstanding commitment to local service and community involvement. Courtesy photos.

Turn onto the historic main street of Columbus and you will quickly feel the atmosphere shift. Warmth radiates from the historic buildings that line the street, making strangers feel like neighbors and neighbors feel like family. This is a town where business owners greet you by name after only one visit, and smiles come easily to those passing by on the sidewalk. Columbus happily welcomes newcomers passing through, but its real strength lies in the devotion its residents show to each other and the town. Everyday acts of stewardship and generosity knit the community together, whether that means helping a neighbor in need or collaborating to put on a town event. Few people illustrate this spirit better than Steve and Grace McCullough, two individuals whose steady kindness and service have quietly shaped Columbus into the warm, resilient hometown so many are proud to call home.

This partnership did not begin in Columbus. It began decades ago at Texas State University, then called Southwest Texas State, where the allure of a live band at a dance hall brought them together. The band that night was Ace in the Hole, fronted by George Strait. Forty-four years later, Steve and Grace’s journey has taken them many places. For most of Steve’s professional career in the oil and gas industry, their family moved often, living across the country and even abroad in the United Kingdom. When it came time to retire, the couple chose a little white house just off Columbus’ main road.

36 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY VICTORIA FREDERICK

Steve and Grace McCullough are active volunteers in Columbus, from building with Habitat for Humanity to grilling burgers with the Lions Club and supporting countless community events.

Courtesy photos.

Settling into a new town where they did not know anyone was not unfamiliar, but Steve and Grace decided the quickest way to make connections and put down roots was through volunteer work.

That choice blossomed into what Steve fondly calls “a second life of service.” They began with Habitat for Humanity, picking up hammers and paintbrushes not only to build houses but also to build relationships. “We really try to get to know the homeowners and their families and stay in touch,” Steve said.

Their involvement did not stop there. One opportunity led to another, from serving on the board of directors for Colorado County Crime Stoppers and taking active roles on Columbus’ Planning and Zoning Committee to helping organize the monthly market on the square. Steve and Grace soon found themselves busier than ever. The most enduring part of their service centers on the Columbus Lions Club. Steve began as a board member and is now first vice district governor. By July 2026, he will become district governor, overseeing 2,000 members in 53 districts.

“Lions are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet,” Steve said. It is clear he and other members take pride in being part of the largest nonprofit service organization in the world. With so

many events and opportunities to serve, the Lions devote time to distributing food at the pantry, organizing their annual charity golf tournament and offering support to local charities. But the McColloughs’ favorite event is helping the Lions cook their famous lion burgers at the Magnolia Festival each May, an annual highlight that is part fundraiser, part celebration of Columbus.

These days, they joke that they are “busier than ever,” managing packed schedules with the help of two calendars. Steve even carries business cards identifying himself as a volunteer, always ready to lend a hand. “There’s always something to be working on,” he said with a laugh. Grace added, “We have lots of time we can give.” Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2023 the Chamber of Commerce honored them as Volunteers of the Year, an award they said was unexpected but is now proudly displayed by their front door.

If you find yourself at a local event or festival, odds are you will run into the McCulloughs. Whether they are serving food, building community, offering a friendly greeting or enjoying a stop at the local brewery, their devotion is a reminder that in Columbus, being a good neighbor is more than a tradition. It is a way of life.

37 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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LOCAL INSPIRATION

STILL GEORGE:

Faith, Family, and the Fight to Come Home George Barnes came home on February 26, 2025. The house was ready. It had been renovated by a community that loves him, prayed over by family, and rearranged to meet the needs of a man who had fought for his life and won. But as George sat in his room, something inside him stilled. He was home, but nothing was the same.

“I got sad because I couldn’t do anything,” he said. “I’d washed my cars, cut yards, helped everybody. Then one day it shuts off. And you feel like crap. You feel like, ‘I’m nothing now.’”

But George Barnes is not nothing. George Barnes is still George.

In October of 2024, George suffered a stroke while out fishing.

He told his friend David, “I don’t feel well,” and went home. He had one stroke at CCH and others after arriving at Memorial Hermann in Houston. After he was admitted, George lost his speech, movement, and the ability to swallow. He could shrug his shoulders, turn his head, and communicate only with his eyes. But he could still pray.

the household, the bills, the emotions of their children, and the logistics of a husband suddenly unable to walk or talk.

But she did not carry it alone.

Their sister-in-law Katie Wessels saw it clearly. “Behind the scenes, the community turned out in droves,” she said. “More people came to his barbecue fundraiser than Little League. I told him, ‘You’re moving mountains from that hospital bed.’”

George’s strokes were ischemic. On one side of the brain stem, he had a full occlusion. On the other side, there was partial access, and the brain stem itself was also affected. He was also diagnosed with diabetes. From ICU to long-term acute care, to Methodist, TIRR, and finally Nexus in Conroe, George spent nearly five months away from home.

Every day of it, he says, was a conversation with God.

Before they put him under for an angiogram, George looked at the doctors and said, “I’m praying for you.

To take care of me. And to be here for her.” He was thinking not of himself, but of his wife Shannon, the woman he’s been with since she was 17.

“The only thing he didn’t lose was his brain,” Shannon said. “He could still communicate.

We played charades. He led every decision.

Through all of it.”

Shannon, who once laid beside him and whispered prayers into his ear when he couldn’t speak, carried more than the weight of survival. She carried

Left to right, Shannon Barnes, George Barnes and Katie Wessels: the team that works together in faith and recovery.

40 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

BY MICHELLE BANSE

“You get down and you get out, and then you find out who really loves you,” George said. “There were days I couldn’t speak out loud, but my brain was talking to God. Full conversations. He was the only one I could talk to. My faith is stronger now than I can even explain.”

Even when bleeding complications nearly took him again, once from a feeding tube insertion and later during the freeze in early 2025, George never stopped believing.

“I knew I’d be okay,” he said. “I wanted to show people what God can do.”

At Nexus, George was chosen as the patient speaker even though his voice had only partially returned. Therapists and visitors said they could feel the presence of God in his room. One respiratory therapist entered, paused, and simply said, “He’s a man of God, isn’t he?”

Back home now, George still undergoes regular speech, occupational, and physical therapy. He works out at a station in the living room, rigs up ways to cast his fishing rod one-handed, and maneuvers through the house in a chair he once resisted.

“This chair is temporary,” he said. “God gave it to help me.”

His presence is undeniable. He is funny. He is compassionate. He is a little stubborn. And he is the same man who once took half the town fishing, fixed neighbors’ cars, and delivered groceries to the elderly just to see them smile. He doesn’t ask for money.

He asks for prayer.

“If I hadn’t shown people my faith before, they wouldn’t have shown up like they did,” he said. “That’s how I know it was real.

You put good into the world, it comes back.”

Shannon, who never left his side, says it simply. “They carried me through.”

And George, who once wondered if his life still held purpose, now knows better.

“You think you love somebody,” he said, “but you find out what love really is when you fall. And they carry you.”

From top: George gets a hug from Steven Theiss, his friend and supervisor at H-E-B for more than 30 years. “I love that man still today … he helped me with my life,” George said. Next, Michael Fitzgerald, who along with his wife lifted George up in prayer. George fondly recalls teaching Michael how to fish. Other photos show George celebrating his last day at Nexus Neurorecovery Center in Conroe and ringing the bell of recovery. He is surrounded by the love of his family. Courtesy photos

41 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

A YEAR IN COLUMBUS Community, Traditions and Festivities Columbus is a community that loves to gather, celebrate, and keep traditions alive. Each year brings a full calendar of events that showcase the town’s spirit, from small-town suppers to festivals that draw visitors from across the region.

The Fourth of July fireworks show lights up the Columbus Golf Course each summer. September features the Colorado County Fair and Parade, the Columbus Lions Club Golf Tournament, and the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department Gun Raffle.

The year begins in January with the Chamber Annual Membership Meeting and the CDA Court of Mary Queen of the Snow #1588 Walk for Life. February follows with the Rotary Club Pancake Supper, the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department’s Oyster and Fish Fry, the Knights of Columbus Hunter’s Exhibit and Chili Supper, and the St. Roch Catholic Daughters and Knights of Columbus Turkey Dinner.

October is packed with fall celebrations, including the St. Roch Catholic Church Picnic on the first Sunday, National Night Out on the first Tuesday, the St. Anthony Fall Festival on the second Sunday, the St. Anthony Halloween Carnival on the last Saturday, and Trick or Treat Around the Track.

March highlights include the FFA Show, Sale and Parade, as well as the St. Roch Knights of Columbus Stew Supper and Raffle. In April, the community gathers for the Colorado County Fair Association Shrimp Boil, City Wide Trash-Off, FFA Alumni Boots and Bling, the Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale, the Little League Barbecue, a Health and Wellness Fair, and Community Connections Day. May brings the Magnolia Days Festival on the third weekend, the National Day of Prayer on the first Thursday, Thunder by the Colorado Truck and Tractor Pull, and the Live Oak Chapter CCA Annual Banquet. In June, treasure hunters look forward to 90 Miles on Hwy 90, held the first full weekend.

December closes the year with festive favorites: the Lighted Parade on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and Ladies Night Out on the first Thursday.

In addition to these highlights, Columbus also offers monthly traditions. The Columbus Country Market takes place the last Saturday of each month from March through November. The Columbus Food Pantry opens every third Friday, and the Santa Claus Museum welcomes visitors each Friday from 1 to 5 p.m.

Many other exciting events are held throughout the year. For the latest updates, visit www.columbustexas.org or call 979-732-8385.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS The 22nd annual LIVE OAKS AND DEAD FOLKS CEMETERY TOUR returns to the Old City Cemetery on Nov. 1 with new stories from Columbus history. From the prosperous to the penniless and the illustrious to the ill-fated, a cast of unforgettable characters will bring the past to life.

A costumed actor-guide will lead guests by lantern light through the tombstones, recounting the true stories of the dearly departed. This year’s tour features all-new characters, unearthed through months of research.

“I’m always thrilled to uncover hidden gems among the graves,” said Tracey Wegenhoft, Nesbitt Memorial Library Foundation board president. “We have real heroes buried among us. Columbus was at the pinnacle of the birth and glory years of the Republic of Texas. It’s all right here under our feet. We just need to tell it.”

Tickets are $25 and go on sale Oct. 1 at the library or online at Live Oaks and Dead Folks 2025 by the Nesbitt Memorial Library Foundation.

Proceeds benefit the foundation.

Tours begin at 6:30 p.m. Guests are asked to arrive by 6:15 p.m.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the grounds may be historic but the sticker burrs are real.

LADIES NIGHT OUT returns to Columbus on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, from 4 to 9 p.m. The Columbus Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to enjoy a festive evening of downtown and around-town shopping, with many local businesses staying open late. Start your experience with a commemorative wine glass package that includes a wine glass, shopping bag, shopping guide and a Jingle & Mingle shopping card. Packages will be available beginning Nov. 17 at the Chamber office. Event day wine glass sales will also be available on site starting at 9 a.m. inside the Chamber office and after 3 p.m. just outside. Supplies are limited, so shoppers are encouraged to purchase early.

The evening will be filled with holiday fun including wine sampling at participating locations, a festive food court in front of the Stafford Opera House, local vendors on the Courthouse Lawn, live music, delicious local treats, free shuttle service and lighted horse-drawn carriage rides through downtown.

Guests can also enjoy a free photo booth on the square to capture the memories.

Shoppers who visit at least 12 of the 14 participating businesses and have their shopping card stamped will be entered to win a $1,000 cash prize.

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1229 Milam Street

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2025 YEAR SEASON WINS: District Champions • Sectional Champions • State Champions Southwest Regional Champions • Junior World Series Champions

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CONTACTS a CONNECTIONS ATTORNEY AT LAW

BUTANE/PROPANE

The Law Office of Paige Sciba 281-620-8551 Page 27

Columbus Butane Co. 1340 Walnut Street 979-732-2074 Page 31

AUTO SALES, SERVICE AND REPAIR

CHURCH

Cavender Auto Country Chevrolet, Buick & GMC 1700 IH-10 East, Weimar 979-725-8515 Back Cover Cavender Ford 4860 IH-10 East, Frontage Road 979-277-3597 Back Cover Columbus Tire Center 1223 Walnut Street 979-732-2689 Page 27 D-Zee’s Automotive 108 Oak Cluster Drive 979-732-5919 Page 9 Schneider Tire and Lube 3931 Highway 90 979-732-2005 Page 5 BED AND BREAKFAST The Clubhouse Eagle Lake Page 13

First United Methodist Church 1229 Milam Street 979-732-2643 Page 44 CONSTRUCTION Settlers Reserve 979-885-6262 Page 4 COMPUTER REPAIR Ryan’s Device Repair 1139 Fannin Street 979-942-9101 Page 27 EDUCATION Columbus ISD 105 Cardinal Lane 979-732-5704 Page 4 St. Anthony School 635 Bonham Street 979-732-5505 Page 13 FINANCIAL Capital Farm Credit 8 East Palm Street, Bellville 979-865-2219 Page 30

Edward Jones Keith McRee 1001 Milam Street, STE A 979-493-5300 Page 17 Edward Jones Carrie I. McRee 526 Spring Street 979-732-8266 Page 17

INSURANCE Texas Farm Bureau Insurance 1480 Walnut Street 979-732-2383 Page 9 IRRIGATION SYSTEM

Lone Star Bank 1515 Fannin Street, STE D 979-500-4080 Page 4

Texas Irrigation & Pipe, LLC 1870 Frelsburg Road, Cat Spring 979-732-3970 Page 17

FOOD AND DRINK

LANDSCAPING

Frontier Rodeo Coffee 815 Walnut Street 979-500-4060 Page 31

Midway Water Gardens & Stonemasonry 1156 Santa Anna Road 979-732-6129 Page 35

Magnolia Society 920 Milam Street 979-500-4260 Page 25

MUSEUM Texas Cotton Gin 307 North Main Street, Burton 979-289-3378 Page 44

Maria’s Mexican Café 1221 Fannin Street 979-732-6278 Page 20

NURSERY

The Dewberry Café 1237 Bowie Street 979-732-5553 Page 27 HOME IMPROVEMENT AND REPAIRS Mark Thayer 979-618-1316 Page 17

Take Root 180 Oak Cluster Drive 979-942-6590 Page 21 ORGANIZATIONS Columbus Chamber of Commerce 425 Spring Street 979-732-8385 Page 5

Columbus Historical Preservation Trust 425 Spring Street 979-732-5135 Page 39 OUTDOOR PLAYGROUNDS Playset Services 1260 Business State Highway 71 979-253-8536 Back Inside Cover PLUMBING Awesome Plumbing, LLC 832-215-4250 Page 5 Bold Plumbing 1203 Travis Street 979-733-0626 Page 38 Early Birdie Plumbing 832-544-6621 Page 26 PHYSICAL THERAPY Columbus Physical Therapy 107 Shult Drive 979-732-5783 Inside Front Cover PORTABLE BUILDINGS Knight Outdoor Building 1758 1-10, Weimar 979-398-4318 Page 30

Knight Outdoor Building 4662NE I-10, Sealy 281-608-2808 Page 30 REAL ESTATE Heidi May, Realtor 819 Walnut Street 832-588-5525 Page 35 SHOPPING Kitchen Thyme 2002 Highway 71 South 979-500-4102 Page 25 Potter’s Western Store 2106 Highway 71 South 979-732-2288 Page 27 The Silver Barn 521 Walnut Street 979-732-7260 Page 31 TreHouse Embroidery and More 107 East Main Street, Weimar 979-725-8844 Page 35 Walmart 2103 Milam Street 979-732-8341 Page 25

TITLE SERVICE Mid-Coast Title Company, Inc. 410 Walnut Street 979-733-0440 Page 21 UTILITIES City of Columbus 605 Spring Street 979-732-2366 Page 30 VETERINARY Columbus Animal Clinic 923 Walnut Street 979-732-5758 Page 13 Colorado Valley Veterinary Services 1393 Bus Highway 71 979-732-9981 Page 9 WATER WELL SERVICE Busselman Water Wells 509 Veterans Drive 979-733-2766 Page 39 Neuendorff Water Well Service, Inc. 509 Veterans Drive 979-732-2897 Page 21

STORAGE RENTALS Stow and Go Storage 1268 South Highway 71 979-733-6403 Page 38

CHURCH LISTINGS BAPTIST First Baptist Church of Columbus – 1700 Milam St. • 979-732-6261 • Sun 9 a.m. & 6 p.m.; Wed 6 p.m.

Greater Smith Baptist Church – 833 Preston St. • 979-732-2551 • Sun 11 a.m.

Iglesia Bautista Nueva Jerusalem – 1122 Spring St. • Sun 9:45 a.m.

CATHOLIC St. Anthony Catholic Church – 1602 Bowie St. • 979-732-2562 • Sat 6 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m., 10 a.m., Spanish noon; Weekday Masses vary St. Roch Catholic Church – 1600 Frelsburg Rd. (Mentz) • 979-732-3460 • Sat 4 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.; Thu 5:30 p.m.

Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church – 1031 Church Ln. (Frelsburg) • 979-732-3430 • Sun 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Latin); Weekday Masses vary CHURCH OF CHRIST Milam Street Church of Christ – 815 Milam St. • 979-732-2441 • Sun 11 a.m.

West Oaks Church of Christ – 214 FM 806 (Cardinal Ln.) • 979-732-3001 • Sun 10:20 a.m.

EPISCOPAL St. John’s Episcopal Church – 915 Travis St. • 979-732-2590 • Sun 10:30 a.m.

LUTHERAN St. Paul Lutheran Church – 201 Veterans Dr. • 979-732-2423 • Sat 7 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m. & 11:05 a.m.

METHODIST First United Methodist Church – 1229 Milam St. • 979-732-2643 • Sun 10 a.m.

St. Paul United Methodist Church – 916 Fannin St. • 979-732-2352 • Sun 11 a.m.

NONDENOMINATIONAL / COMMUNITY Columbus Community Church – 1503 Bowie St. • 979-484-8055 • Sun 10:30 a.m.

Reese Lane Bible Church – 2022 Reese Ln. • 979-732-2852 • Sun 10 a.m.; Wed 7 p.m.

Thousand Trails Church Service – 1062 Thousand Trails Ln. • 979-732-8229 • Sun 2 p.m.

OTHER DENOMINATIONS Columbus Church of God – 3231 Columbus Loop • 979-732-3030 • Sun 9 a.m.

Columbus First Church of the Nazarene – 711 Fannin St. • 979-732-8769 • Sun 11 a.m.

Iglesia Cristiana Principe De Paz – 1131 Fannin St. • Sun 10:30 a.m.

45 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

RECIPES FOR THE SEASON

CREAMY ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND SAGE PASTA INGREDIENTS • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste • 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells work well) • 2 tablespoons butter • 2–3 fresh sage leaves, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1/3 cup reserved pasta water (or a splash of cream, optional) • Optional: toasted walnuts, pine nuts, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes PREPARATION Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and tender. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water before draining. In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté sage and garlic over medium-low heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add roasted squash to the skillet and mash slightly with the back of a spoon. Add drained pasta and toss to coat. Stir in cheese and enough reserved pasta water to make it creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, topped with more cheese or toasted nuts if desired.

GRANDMA’S SOUTHERN CORNBREAD DRESSING INGREDIENTS • 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 cup cornmeal • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 large eggs • 1 cup buttermilk

DRESSING • 1 tablespoon canola oil • 1 medium onion, chopped • 2 celery ribs, chopped • 3 large eggs • 2 cans (10.75-ounce cans) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted • 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning • 1 teaspoon pepper • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 2 cups chicken broth

PREPARATION Preheat the oven to 400°. In a large bowl, whisk flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk.

Pour oil into an 8-inch ovenproof skillet; place skillet in the oven for 4 minutes. Meanwhile, add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture; stir just until moistened. Carefully tilt and rotate skillet to coat bottom with oil; add batter. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in a pan on a wire rack. Reduce oven setting to 350°. For dressing, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery; cook and stir 4-6 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat. Coarsely crumble cornbread into skillet; toss to combine. In a small bowl, whisk eggs, condensed soup and seasonings; stir into bread mixture. Stir in broth.

Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until lightly browned.

Where the cold quiets, the heart warms deeper still.

46 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

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