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The competition to be recognized as one of the “best of the best” Texas barbecue joints by Texas Monthly has heated up faster than a propane grill in Hank Hill’s experienced hands.For the 2025 edition of this quadrennial list, TM barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn and his staff of taste testers went to more restaurants than ever before — 319 stands, smokehouses, shacks or pits, to be exact.And while Gonzales’ own Baker Boys BBQ didn’t reach quite the same heights it did in 2017 and 2021 — when the restaurant was named one of the Top 50 spots in the Lone...

James Beard-nominated pitmasters draw praise for ribs, brisketSAN ANTONIO – Seguin’s Burnt Bean Co. landed at the top of Texas Monthly’s list of 50 best barbecue joints in the Lone Star State.Texas Monthly, which released its list on Tuesday, praised Burnt Bean pitmasters David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes for their weekend-only rib dishes, plus their brisket, turkey and sausage.The restaurant’s bourbon peach cobbler taco dessert and its ambiance, reminiscent of “a museum of small-town Texas,” were also noted. (Read the full review here.)This isn’t the first time Burnt Bean has earned high praise from respected outlets.Continue reading the full article...

On June 1, Ottine Mineral Springs in Gonzales will officially re-open to the public, unveiling a massive renovation to the historic site about an hour and 15 minutes from Austin. Until recently, this 40-acre property was home to just two private mineral-fed pools, but now this sprawling land is dotted with five new pools of varying adjustable temperatures, outdoor dining options, saunas, cold plunges, cabanas, fire pits, and much more.The scale of Ottine Mineral Springs' glow-up is hard to comprehend, so CultureMap made a little day trip out to the property to experience everything it has to offer and get...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Director of Communications Seth W. Christensen today released a statement calling out Congressional Democrats for politicizing disaster aid for farmers in need across the country:“Congressional Democrats are playing politics with disaster aid, withholding critical funding from farmers to manufacture controversy and blame the Trump Administration—when in reality, they’re pushing to misuse taxpayer dollars.Secretary Rollins is working in good faith to deliver relief quickly and responsibly. USDA has met weekly with eligible states, offering flexible options and clear guidance to avoid duplicating existing federal programs.Click here to read the original article from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

A class in leadership led a group of community members to take the lead on updating one of Seguin’s parks with a little extra shade.The Seguin Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Leadership Seguin Class recently cut the ribbon on a pavilion it had built at Manuel C. Castilla Park on the north side of the city.The group raised about $75,000 to construct the 40-foot by 60-foot shade structure through the help of community partnerships, Leadership Seguin member Jake Pflumm said.“This was a very concerted effort. It was a partnership,” he said. “It is a really big testament to the Seguin community...

Governor Greg Abbott today commended the Texas Legislature for making a Texas-size investment in the state's water infrastructure following passage of Senate Bill 7 and House Joint Resolution 7.“With the dramatic population growth that Texas continues to experience, our water supplies are drying up, impacting Texans and communities across our great state,” said Governor Abbott. “This Texas-size water package is critical to fix broken and leaking pipes and give our agriculture producers in the Rio Grande Valley and West Texas the water they need to grow their crops. Thanks to the efforts of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Burrows, Senator...

A bill increasing the amount of money the state spends to attract film and television productions to Texas has been sent to Gov. Greg Abbott after lawmakers agreed to lower what had originally been proposed at the start of the year.Senate Bill 22, filed by Houston Republican Sen. Joan Huffman, would allow the comptroller to deposit $300 million into a new Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Fund every two years until 2035. The Senate's version of the bill would have deposited $500 million every two years until 2035. However, the House amended this version of the bill to lower it...

I get it. The economy seems uncertain and companies across the country are looking for a place where they can grow with confidence. In Texas, we like to say it ain’t braggin’ if it’s true—and the fact of the matter is, takes care of business. With a budget surplus, world-class infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a can-do attitude that turns challenges into opportunities, Texas remains the safest place for business expansion and retention, both now and for generations to come.One of the biggest reasons businesses continue to choose Texas is our unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility. While other states like...

When business and manufacturing leaders plan facility upgrades, art is not usually part of the blueprint. Equipment, efficiency, and lighting systems come first — and understandably so. Yet, a growing body of research and field experience proves that strategically incorporated art can do more than beautify a facility. It can improve employees' well-being, boost productivity, and even enhance safety. Art is not a luxury. It's a smart, strategic investment in individuals — and in performance.How One Warehouse Transformed with ArtAustin Energy's warehouse at Cameron Park demonstrates how thoughtfully integrated art can elevate industrial spaces. Building upon a previous successful collaboration...

Oil and gas companies locate where they need to – proximity to the Permian Basin, Marcellus Shale or LNG hubs along the Gulf Coast for example. But where are their future employees looking to launch and grow their careers? Recent analysis from LearnToDrill.com, an online education and training resource for professionals in the oil and gas industry, offers insights into what its top five states with the fastest-growing career opportunities bring to the table as potential locations for workers.1) TEXASTexas provides over 400,000 direct jobs in the oil and gas industry, making up nearly 40% of all U.S. oil and...

Located in a carefully restored historic home on Camp Street in downtown Seguin, Texas, Pecantown Books and Brews is far more than a bookstore. It’s a place where the best in books, food, and community intersect. Founded by Tess Coody-Anders in June 2022, this cozy space has quickly become a regional destination for readers, food lovers, and regional travelers. “We opened almost three years ago in downtown Seguin with the intent of bringing new books, new food, and new opportunities to connect to the downtown area,” Coody-Anders said. The vision extended beyond creating a retail space to curating a unique cultural...

The Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) recognized 73 economic development organizations across the state as recipients of its 2024 Economic Excellence Recognition, an honor awarded during the 2025 TEDC Winter Conference held on February 28th in Austin.The Economic Excellence Recognition program celebrates economic development organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to professionalism. Recognition is based on staff certifications, professional memberships, organizational effectiveness, and training completed by both staff and governing bodies.Among this year’s honorees, several organizations from the Guadalupe Valley region received the prestigious recognition:Cuero Development CorporationGonzales Economic Development CorporationNew Braunfels Chamber of CommerceSchertz Economic Development CorporationSeguin Economic Development CorporationYoakum...

Governor Greg Abbott today touted the strength of the expanding Texas economy as new data released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows the Texas economy growing at a faster rate than the nation as a whole. The state’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew in the fourth quarter of 2024 at an annual rate of 3.5%, well ahead of the U.S. average of 2.4%.  “Texas offers businesses the freedom to succeed and Texans the tools to prosper,” said Governor Abbott. “It is hardworking Texans who power our booming and growing economy. Year after year, we continue to lead...

Though Seguin High senior Miguel Carrillo is eyeing a career as an electrician, he said he found other things that sparked his interest Wednesday at a career fair.Drawn to Seguin Career Day by the opportunity to speak with a representative of Masters Electrical Services, a stop at the TXFAME Lonestar Chapter booth also proved fruitful, Carillo said.“(TXFAME) sounds like a good opportunity to have. All of the opportunities they give, it sounds like a good program,” he said. “A lot of great people are here, a lot of great opportunities, a lot of great jobs, as well.”Those opportunities are what...

Is the zeitgeist right for ‘agrihoods’?Would you rather invest in a golf course community or one where valuable property is profitably used to grow food?“Agrihoods” are gaining steam as an alternative real estate strategy targeting affluent, younger demographics that are jazzed by the prospect of living and raising families among nature and abundant, organic food sources.According to the Urban Land Institute, there are now about 200 “agrihoods” in more than 30 states across the United States, with such developments increasingly popping up not just in rural areas but also in proximity to major cities. ULI defines agrihoods as “single-family, multifamily,...

Rural communities hold immense potential for growth, innovation, and development. However, capitalizing on this potential requires strategic efforts highlighting your rural community and its unique advantages. At Golden Shovel Agency, we specialize in empowering economic developers to promote their regions effectively.Why Promoting Rural Communities MattersEconomic development in rural areas is vital for cultivating growth, improving residents' quality of life, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Rural regions offer many benefits, such as lower operating costs, access to natural resources, and a close-knit community—yet they often face challenges in marketing themselves effectively to attract talent and investment.Read the full article from the Golden...

Texas was already the leading state in the nation for semiconductor chip manufacturing when, in 2022, the federal government passed the CHIPS Act and focused attention on bolstering this key industry. Texas’ government followed suit with its own CHIPS Act, spurring an influx of resources and job opportunities across the state. A new grant from the Department of Defense puts $7.5 million more into nascent semiconductor technician training programs at Austin Community College (ACC), readying the workforce to fill the high-tech jobs that will be created in coming years as new plants open.Strengthening National SecuritySemiconductors are the tiny computer “chips”...

As part of the Victoria Independent School District's (VISD) mission to obtain and retain high-quality, experienced teachers, in accordance with the newly implemented 2025- 2029 academic strategic plan, the district will stage a two-day job fair beginning on April 3.The job fair will offer experienced educators or individuals with a bachelor's degree looking to enter into a career path in the education the opportunity to connect with hiring managers and explore opportunities to teach in VISD. the two-day event is intended exclusively for individuals interested in a teaching position within VISD.Read the full article here.

Community members gathered to plant 76 trees at the Ag Friar Complex on March 1. Mac Martin, the Community Forestry Program Lead, conducted a tree planting demonstration. He placed the tree on its side and carefully removed the bucket. Avoid yanking the tree out. Various species of oak trees were also available for free for take home....Read the full article here.

While Texas might be best known for the fuel that’s under the ground, an exciting new hydrogen project at one Austin school explores the rich possibilities of several other natural resources the state has to offer. The Center for Electromechanics at The University of Texas at Austin has opened a cutting edge hydrogen power ‘proto-hub’ that will put clean power to the test and explore the possibilities of scaling up and modernizing the Texas energy industry.Several years in the making, this facility is part of the larger “Demonstration and Framework for H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond” project. H2@Scale is supported...

With the snip of a ribbon, the Seguin High School baseball team officially has a home, while the softball team got an upgrade.While the teams have already christened the turf having practiced and played in the new stadium, the Matadors Legends Baseball/Softball Field officially opened Monday during a special ceremony.Students, staff, family and community members all gathered to help cut the golden ribbon, which signified the opening of Matador Legends Ballpark.“Thank you for supporting Seguin ISD, our schools and our students,” Seguin ISD Superintendent Veronica Vijil said at the ribbon cutting. “We would also like to recognize the families of...

The Schertz Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is proud to announce that it has been honored with the 2024 Economic Excellence Recognition from the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC). This prestigious award was presented at TEDC’s 2025 Winter Conference on February 28th in Austin, Texas, placing Schertz among an elite group of 71 organizations recognized for their outstanding commitment to economic development.The Economic Excellence Recognition Program highlights organizations that uphold high standards in economic development through training, certification, and adherence to best practices. Recipients qualify based on the professional development of their governing board, economic development director, and staff, as well...

In Texas, the weather can turn on a dime. And in Southeast Texas, that means TxDOT needs to be ready for anything.“The strength of Mother Nature is so unpredictable,” said Melody Galland, director of maintenance for TxDOT in Houston. “Each of these weather events is a constant reminder that teamwork is essential—we can't face them alone. You have to learn to trust the people you have who work tirelessly to keep the roads open.”Southeast Texas experienced hurricanes last summer and an unprecedented winter snowstorm just six months later.Read the full article here.

Formulating an effective economic development strategy requires asking a full range of questions to identify community needs and priorities. Comprehensive economic development plans should address pressing and long-term needs in a community. Collaborating with key stakeholders ensures challenges and opportunities across all community sectors are acknowledged and considered as strategies are solidified. Golden Shovel Agency knows the questions to ask and the data to review to develop the most substantial economic development strategies and related plans.12 questions to ask when developing an economic development strategyWho are the key stakeholders in the region?Read the full article from Golden Shovel Agency here.

Scientists have long sought to effectively harness hydrogen as a clean power source. The earliest hydrogen fuel cell prototype, in fact, was developed in 1839, though American hydrogen research really took off after NASA used hydrogen fuel cells to power rockets in their race to space.The Gulf Coast was famously instrumental in journeying to the stars, and with plans for a massive new hydrogen hub on the way, it is also poised to help build the clean energy infrastructure of the future.The HyVelocity Hydrogen Hub is a collaboration between seven energy producers in the Houston area and is receiving funding...

Napoleon Hill’s iconic quote, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve,” embodies the spirit of possibility and ambition that fuels innovation. This mindset is essential for driving not only individual success but also the evolution of entire industries. Innovation thrives on the belief that challenges can be overcome and that new ideas, once envisioned, can be transformed into groundbreaking realities.By applying this principle, industries can achieve transformative growth. It encourages leaders, thinkers, and innovators to push boundaries, adapt to changing environments, and create solutions that shape the future. Whether through technological advancements, process improvements, or entirely new...

The medical device manufacturing industry is an innovative, thriving industry, to be sure. But even innovative, thriving industries entered 2025 with questions concerning making and assembling product, harnessing artificial intelligence, the new administration’s direction and, of course, costs.But answering those questions is what leads to progress.“With the ongoing pressures in health care to control costs, I believe the industry will continue to seek innovative ways to develop and produce products in a more efficient, cost-effective manner,” said Bob Vitoux, president and CEO of Warsaw, Ind.-based OrthoWorx, “while not forgoing the importance of quality and efficacy that has long been the...

Found along I-35 between San Antonio and Austin, New Braunfels is a vital community in the GVEC Region with a diverse base of companies operating in aviation, data centers, distribution, healthcare, and manufacturing. Tourism also flourishes in New Braunfels due to natural amenities like the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, highlighted by Schlitterbahn, the top waterpark in the country.New Braunfels Continues Rapid Growth New Braunfels is thriving, with a general population of 100,000, a growth rate of 2.87%, and a talented workforce approaching a half million within commuting distance. As more businesses and residents continue to move to New Braunfels, the nearly...

Located 25 miles southeast of San Antonio, La Vernia is a community in the GVEC Region home to several available commercial sites. It is built along US 87, a north-south corridor that starts near the Port of Victoria and travels through the country until it reaches Canada through central Montana.Pick from Several Commercial Sites for Development in La Vernia and the GVEC Region  Not only are there several commercial sites available in La Vernia, but there is also a strong, educated workforce to pull from. The community has a renowned school system and a median household income of $77,000. Learn...

Schertz is a vital community in the GVEC Region, named One of the Best Places to Live by Money Magazine. The desirable city located just outside San Antonio has more than 15,000 households and a population of 44,000, with a substantial projected growth rate.Work and Live in Schertz; A Jewel of the GVEC RegionSchertz’s strategic location offers easy connections to Austin, Houston, and the rest of Texas by both I-10 and I-35, making it a popular location for business investment. General Electric, Caterpillar, FedEx, Amazon, and Sysco have invested a combined half a billion dollars in capital to grow their...

Your perfect customer is searching for someone just like you. They want exactly what you offer. They need your skills, expertise and solutions. But if your LinkedIn profile isn't set up to grab their attention, they'll find someone else.When I started taking LinkedIn seriously, my business exploded. In one year my account grew from 7k to 30k followers, with a high proportion being my dream customers. This isn't random, and it's not luck. You can do it too. With intention, a process, and commitment to keep going, you can grow your business with help from LinkedIn.Read the full article from...

With a diverse economic base, Gonzales, TX, is a thriving community in the GVEC Region. It is home to well-known companies like Adams Extract & Spice, Purina, Tyson, Kitchen Pride Mushroom Farm, and BYK Industries, which completed a $50 million expansion in the city in 2020. Gonzales is also an agricultural hub for poultry, mushrooms, feed, and beef.Gonzales Holds Historic Place in the GVEC RegionBeyond its commercial and industrial base, Gonzales has played an essential role in the history of Texas. It is home to the first battle of the Texas Revolution in 1835, with the iconic Come and Take...

GVEC Economic Development recognizes the potential Goliad County provides with easy access to Corpus Christi. The city of Goliad itself is just 75 miles from the port, providing a key location for businesses that import materials and export manufactured products.  GVEC Economic Development Sees Potential in Goliad CountyGoliad County could be poised for growth in the coming years, and businesses are increasingly taking interest. It is currently home to 135 businesses across a variety of industries. The city of Goliad is also the smallest town in Texas to be selected for the Main Street Program.  Visit the GVEC website to...

Developers and site seekers have a wide variety of available sites for commercial development in the GVEC Region. Parcels of land come in various sizes, from smaller plots with rail access to vast expanses of shovel-ready sites primed for facility development. Available Sites in the GVEC Region Fit Every IndustryNot only does the GVEC Region have large expanses of land, but it also has easy access to large metropolitan areas. Developers can fly into San Antonio, Austin, or Houston and quickly reach available commercial sites throughout the GVEC Region via I-10 and I-35. Visit the GVEC website to look at some of...

More money continues to flow into the local economy. The city of Seguin wrapped up 2024 with a look at sales tax data for the last few years.Finance Director Susan Caddell shared the news about the city's growing sales tax collections during a presentation at the last meeting of the Seguin City Council. Caddell says Seguin's sales tax growth exceeded that of most communities in this area.“Really good news on the sales tax front. (We had) a 12.46 percent increase from this time last year. You can see every month, with the exception of June, we're up. Then you can...

In today’s fast-evolving skilled trades industry, employers are navigating significant challenges, including labor shortages, high turnover rates, and widening skills gaps. To address these issues effectively, companies must prioritize talent management strategies that foster recruitment, retention, and ongoing employee development. A key component of this approach is job task analysis, a systematic process that helps organizations pinpoint the exact skills and knowledge workers need to excel in their roles.The role of job task analysis in workforce developmentJob task analysis is a powerful tool that enables employers to break down each role into specific tasks and identify the knowledge, skills, and...