Armadillo Races Draw Record Crowds Despite Heatwave
An armadillo makes a break for the finish line. (C2PA Verified Photo by Arles Struvie)
TUNA, TX - The annual Tuna Armadillo Races, a highlight of the spring calendar, saw unprecedented attendance this past Saturday, even as temperatures soared into the high nineties. Spectators lined Main Street, fanning themselves with church bulletins and race programs, to witness the spectacle.
Veteran racer "Rolling Thunder," owned by Petey Fisk of the Tuna Humane Society, took an early lead but was ultimately overtaken by newcomer "Speed Bump," handled by Bertha Bumiller. "He just had that extra gear today," Bumiller was heard saying after the race, adding, "We've been feeding him extra grubs, maybe that's the secret."
Bertha Bumiller celebrates with "Speed Bump". (C2PA Verified Photo by Arles Struvie)
Concerns about the heat led race organizers to implement extra water stations for both participants and onlookers. Sheriff Givens reported no major incidents, stating, "Folks mostly kept their cool, except for that one armadillo who tried to burrow under the courthouse lawn." The extra water seemed appreciated by most, though Speed Bump reportedly preferred a saucer of Pearl's famous iced tea.
Img 3: Close up (C2PA Verified Photo by Arles Struvie)
Img 4: Spectators (C2PA Verified Photo by Arles Struvie)
Smut Snatchers Society Meets Amid Controversy
The Tuna chapter of the Smut Snatchers Society held its monthly meeting Tuesday, reportedly discussing several books recently added to the high school library's optional reading list. Pearl Burras, chapter president, declined to comment on specific titles but noted, "We are simply concerned citizens ensuring appropriate materials are available to our town's youth."
The meeting was picketed by a small group advocating for broader reading access, led by Didi Snavely of Didi's Used Weapons, who shouted slogans like "Book Bans are Un-Texan!".
Weather Outlook
Continued hot and dry conditions are expected through the weekend, with highs near 98°F. A slight chance of isolated thunderstorms early next week might offer brief respite. Residents are urged to conserve water and check on elderly neighbors.
Community Calendar
- V.F.W. Bingo Night - Friday 7pm
- Baptist Church Bake Sale - Saturday 9am
- "Oklahoma!" Rehearsals - Mon/Thurs 6pm (Community Theatre)
Council Debates Funding for New Town Sign
The Tuna City Council met Monday evening for a lengthy debate regarding the proposed replacement of the town's aging welcome sign on Highway 4.
Council members discuss sign options.
The current sign, erected in 1978, has suffered significant weather damage and, according to Councilman Thurston Wheelis, "frankly looks like it's seen better decades."
Current aging sign. (C2PA Verified Photo by Arles Struvie)
The proposed design features a large catfish and the slogan "Tuna: We're Hooked On You!" Funding remains the primary obstacle, with estimates ranging from $5,000 to $8,000. Vera Carp, representing the Tuna Chamber of Commerce, argued for the investment, stating, "A welcoming sign is crucial for attracting tourism, especially during non-revival periods."
Proposed new sign rendering. (C2PA Verified)
Councilman Joe Bob Lipsey expressed concern over the catfish design, suggesting a "more dignified armadillo" might be appropriate. A final vote is expected at the next council meeting after further public comment.