Welcome to Lampasas.

Whether you've lived here your whole life, are taking a homecoming trip or are visiting Lampasas for the first time, our town has plenty to offer.

Many of my best memories have been made in Lampasas, and I always missed home when I was out of state in college. Lampasas' springs, hills, ranches, eateries and, above all, its friendly people were never far from my mind. Here's hoping Spring Ho gives you an opportunity to enjoy all the above.

Spring Ho has earned its growing reputation as one of Texas' best town festivals. Where else can you catch a fireworks show, stroll along the creek, scoot your boots at a street dance featuring budding music stars and recording artists, tackle a 10K route that will make your muscles scream and then replace all the calories you've burned by stopping for a funnel cake or some barbecue cook-off goodies?

If you're new to Lampasas or haven't visited for several years, now is a great time to see what's new. Retail stores, restaurants and homes have sprung up in recent years. Downtown Lampasas glimmers with a recently completed boot mural, and another mural project on Second Street is sure to spark a colorful look at our town's past.

A sports park near Farm-to- Market Road 580 West is on the way, and new school campuses are set to open for their first classes in August. All it takes is one good look at the new Lampasas High School or Taylor Creek Elementary in east Lampasas County to know Lampasas is a place on the move.

For all that's new in Lampasas, though, I've always thought what makes the city great are the things that don't seem to change. Drivers waving when they pass you on the street. Landmark stores and restaurants. Seeing your former teachers in the grocery store and stopping to shoot the breeze. Hundreds of people who actually know your name and neighbors who will do anything to help.

A number of high school reunions also are planned for this week. If your class is meeting, we hope you'll relive plenty of memories and enjoy seeing friends you haven't heard from in awhile.

That's what makes Spring Ho so exciting -- the opportunities to form new friendships, strengthen old ones and celebrate Lampasas' storied past and exciting future.