The Lead Live Podcast: Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025 episode

The Oct. 14 episode of The Lead Live, hosted by Louis Amestoy, covered flood recovery efforts, upcoming local events, and community developments. Guests included Janelle Peralt of JP Properties, Kyla Gesell, Mike and Jan Pieraccini of Gunny’s Warriors, and Schreiner University Professor Chris Distel.

Flood Recovery and Water Symposium

Professor Chris Distel, a conservation and ecology specialist, previewed the upcoming Texas Water Symposium, set for Thursday, Oct. 23, at 6 p.m. at Schreiner University. The symposium will focus on grassroots flood recovery, featuring panelists such as Bridget Symm, Jeremuy Walther of KUTS, watershed ecologist Clint Carter, and Suzanne Davis, a Blanco River recovery resident. Becky Etzler will moderate.

Distel highlighted the geological dynamics of the South Fork of the Upper Guadalupe, which contributes to rapid rainfall funneling and the severity of the July 4 flood. He emphasized the ecological importance of “coarse woody material” (logs, wood) in the river basin for mitigating future floods and restoring the ecosystem, cautioning against its extraction. He also raised concerns about the flood’s impact on wildlife, particularly the rare fatmucket mussel and the increased activity of non-native species like axis deer and feral hogs.

Gunny’s Warriors Field of Honor

Mike and Jan Pieraccini of Gunny’s Warriors discussed the upcoming Field of Honor event, scheduled for Oct. 18-20 at River Star Park, featuring 500 flags. Opening ceremonies are Saturday at 11 a.m. The event theme, “Honor Your Hero,” extends recognition beyond the military to include teachers, neighbors, and grandparents. Speakers will include Dr. Ringo, Lucy Wilkey, and Toby Appleton. A special presentation will honor an eight-year-old flood survivor. The event also includes kids’ activities, music, food trucks, and coloring sheets for first responders.

Local News and Community Discussions

Amestoy and Peralt discussed an editorial advocating for a conservancy to protect and manage the Louise Hayes Park area, including the River Trail. Other local topics included:

• Flood Investigation: Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Speaker Dustin Burroughs announced an investigation into the July 4 flood, questioning Camp Mystic. Amestoy argued this overlooks other factors and locations.
• City Business: The Kerrville City Council was to consider a new tax district for the Whiskey Springs development.
• Elections: Tom Jones and Stewart announced candidacies for county judge. Bobby Templeton announced his candidacy for Precinct 4 against Bubba Walters.
• Community Calendar: Upcoming events include the Tivy Hall of Fame induction, a job fair at the Hill Country Veterans Center, and a flood benefit concert.
• Local Human Interest: City public works employees returned a Kansas State University class ring, lost in 1996, to Randy Fox.