On July 4, 2025, a massive flash flood ravaged the Texas Hill Country. First and foremost, we send our thoughts and prayers to the families who lost someone and grieve with them and the state of Texas. My name is Kristine Simon, I’m a 5th generation Texan, and as a Texan, I have endured many natural disasters: tornadoes, hurricanes, hailstorms, and of course, flash floods. This one breaks my heart.

My stepdad, George Shamblee, lost all of his tools that were stored in a 16 ft enclosed custom trailer fitted for his tools valued over $40,000. His trailer was parked at Guadalupe Keys, owned by Drew and David (his work partners), where there were 8 trailers and 4 ConX containers washed away, putting them all out of business. George has lived in Kerrville since 1997, and while he only lost material possessions, those possessions are his livelihood during retirement, which has been a rough time due to health problems. He built this business by word of mouth, which is a compliment in a small town where everyone knows everyone. He’s the guy who never hesitates to help others or animals (we called him Dr. Doolittle); he’s a skilled woodworker, all-around handy person, and kind to everyone he meets. My daughters spent time at his place during the hot Texas summers and floated down the Guadalupe to cool off.

Unfortunately, George didn’t have insurance to replace all his tools or the custom trailer. After years of fighting cancer, his funds have already been drained and he’s living on social security.

Now it’s my turn to do a good turn for him. He will use these funds to purchase new tools (we have a list of what was lost) and trailer. George came into my life during my wild teen years in Arlington, and he provided love, patience, and a stable place for me to grow up. While I reside in Southern California, my mother, daughter, sister and two brothers still live in Texas with their families.