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CELEBRATING DR. KING

COFFEE WITH THE CAPTAINS

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JANUARY 27, 2015

2014 JARRELL

CITIZEN OF THE

YEAR

Pastor John Warden A Life of Faith and Service

by Cathy Payne

F

idelis Publishing Group has selected the late Pastor John Warden as its 2nd annual Citizen of the Year for Jarrell. Warden, who passed away in June 2014, was the founder and Senior Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church for the last six years, as well as a steadfast supporter and leader in Jarrell for more than three decades.

Warden was chosen not only for his tireless dedication to the community as a Pastor and church leader, but also for the impact he made on individual lives. Described as a man of deep conviction by anyone who knew him, for a day or for a lifetime; the driving force behind that conviction was his faith in Jesus Christ and a passion to share that love with everyone he met.

“John’s faith was much deeper than words,” explains wife Paula.

“The man you saw in church or around town was the same man we knew at home. He didn’t have a ‘public persona and a private persona’ − the purpose of his life was to show the love of Christ, See Warden, p 7

Psalm 127:3

I T

M A T T E R S

T O

U S

info@georgetownadvocate.com

Central Texas’ Award-Winning Local News Source

P&Z Approves Seven Strand

by Mike Payne

S

eniors will soon have new options with the development of a 13-acre tract in Georgetown that will pioneer the movement toward quality and luxury living for senior adults. A new facility named Seven Strand Luxury Senior Living will be built behind Walgreens on Williams Drive, and is directly adjacent to one of the largest senior developments in Texas, Sun City.

This project was envisioned

by Georgetown residents from healthcare, technology and development backgrounds whose goal is to enable seniors to continue their active lifestyles while having additional support as needed. Bringing over 20 years of healthcare management to the organization, local resident, Brian Blaylock will serve as President and CEO of Seven Strand. Blaylock was formerly an executive at Lone Star Circle of Care, Scott & White, and Seton.

Blaylock’s project will include security and high-end amenities that research has shown to be in great demand by seniors today; a portion of these include: Fitness/ Wellness Center; Indoor Heated Pool and Spa; Art & Craft and Game Studios; 24-hour Nurse Practitioner; Restaurants/Bars/ Lounges; Library; Walking Trails;

DOCUMENTARY HELPS CHILD VICTIMS Page 5

Community Garden; Outdoor Recreational Facility; Golf Car Parking; Concierge Services; “This project will be comprised of six buildings totaling approximately 300 residences. All units, with the exception of those units utilized for demonstration and sales, will be reserved and customized for each resident in advance of construction finishout, with options on color, style, and décor,” explains Blaylock.

Sun City resident and City Councilman in District 2, John Hesser commented, “The addition of this development will contribute favorably to the quality of life standards that we enjoy here in Sun City. It will also offer new job opportunities, as well as

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Mr. Blaylock has been a good neighbor and has sought input from Sun City residents on how this project can be incorporated into the existing environment.”

“The addition of Seven Strand is a natural fit here,” Blaylock says, citing that Georgetown was named by Retirement Places Rated (Seventh Edition) as the Best Place in America to Retire.

“Seven Strand Luxury Senior Living will be able to continue this reputation by helping seniors to live independently in a style to which they are accustomed,” Blaylock concludes.

Seven Strand is slated to begin construction in late Spring 2015.

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individual or family can afford.

This class of medical care is known as “Direct Care,” and operates through a membership system (via a low monthly fee) that functions outside of the traditional insurance system.

In this case, patients’ visits are unlimited, and are included in the monthly fee. Direct access to your doctor via office visits, email and cell phone (no more waiting

for a nurse to relay a message) also means quicker, more reliable answers and greater peace of mind. Additionally, a limited patient roster—usually no more than 600, compared to 2,500 for a typical physician—means the doctor spends more time and pays closer attention to each individual.

Patients still need traditional insurance to cover specialist visits, See Dr. Graham, p 15

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Rotary Deadline for Educator’s 2014 Property Scholarship Tax Payment Since 2008, the GeorgeCITY DESK

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s office reminds property owners that Jan 31 is the state mandated deadline to pay 2014 property taxes without penalty or interest.

However, because the 31st falls on a weekend, the delinquency date is extended to Monday, Feb 2.

Tax Assessor Deborah Hunt said, “State law requires any 2014 property taxes not paid on or before February 2nd to be considered delinquent and must have an additional 7 percent penalty and interest added to the tax bill as of February 3, 2015.” The Tax Assessor’s office will recognize Feb 2 USPS postmarks on all mail as received on time. Taxpayers who wish to pay in person are urged not to wait until the last day to pay; lines are expected to be long.

There is a night drop box at the Georgetown office only, to the right of the front door. Any payments postmarked or carried into the office on or after Feb 2 will be charged penalty and interest. Mailed payments should be sent to 904 S. Main St., G’town, 78626.

“We encourage those who are not able to pay the full amount by the deadline, to pay as much as possible.

Some people may feel if they don’t have the money to pay the full amount of their property taxes by Jan 31, that their only option is to take out a property tax loan with a private lender.

“Instead, I encourage taxpayers to contact our office to discuss options.

Increased penalties, interest and attorney fees are applied to the remaining balance on delinquent accounts as of July 1. If they have a balance remaining in July, taxpayers may come to our office and sign a payout agreement with our tax attorneys.

Our goal is to collect property taxes for the jurisdictions that we represent, not to foreclose on their property.” stated Williamson County Tax Assessor/ Collector Deborah Hunt.

For answers on property taxes, visit wilco.org/CountyDepartments/TaxAssessorCollector or call 512943-1603. Tax Assessor/ Collector offices are open 8:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.

town Noon Rotary has offered scholarships for teachers continuing their education. The first was awarded to Dr. Janet Mormon; principal at Frost Elementary. In 2010, the scholarship was awarded to Deah Robbins, now the librarian at East View High School and sponsors the Interact Club at EVHS. A $1500 scholarship is available for a worthy applicant. The “application” consists of a current resume and letter of intent describing the goals and current or desired degree plan. Deadline is March 9. Submit questions and applications to Danny Swafford, Jr., at dannys@ccinsurance.com.

Wilco Shelter $80K Grant

Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) has been awarded an $80,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to fund the Offsite Adoption and Prevention Program, including free services.

WCRAS is the only shelter solely devoted to lost and abandoned animals of Round Rock, Leander, Cedar Park, Hutto, and Williamson County – a population of approximately 450,000 citizens. Since 2011, this open admission shelter has maintained a 90% or above save rate and has received national recognition for its life-saving mission. This “No-Kill” sta-

WCRAS’ Tawnie L’Allier microchipped Bromley before adoption.

tus is not mandated, but has been maintained because they believe it is the right thing to do.

The goal is to reduce the number of animals that come into the animal shelter. This includes free microchips for citizens of the five jurisdictions, free collar and ID tag with adoptions, and free spay/neuter surgeries for pets of families with a financial need. Contact the shelter staff at wcras@ wilco.org.

“Our aim is to reunite families with their pets faster with the help of microchips and tags” says Cheryl Schneider, animal services director. “By increasing our reunions and decreasing unwanted litters, we hope to decrease the number of animals entering the shelter and thus, decrease the chance of euthanasia because of overcrowding.”

WilCo EMS “Take 10” CPR Class

WilCo Emergency Medical Services (EMS) wants to make this county a better place for heart health. Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death among

adults over the age of 40 in the U.S. Each year, approximately 300,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest, and nine out of 10 die. When bystanders intervene by giving CPR and using AEDs before EMS arrives, things anyone can learn to do, four out of 10 survive.

In honor of heart health awareness, Williamson County EMS is launching the Take 10 CPR Program, which teaches CPR in 10 minutes. EMS will host a free Take 10 CPR Class for downtown Georgetown businesses February 24, at 8:45 a.m. in old courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, Georgetown, in the District Courtroom. Anyone interested in taking the course should register at take10CPR@wilco.org as space is limited.

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GEORGETOWN

Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. JANUARY 19—Nearly 200 people gathered at the Old Courthouse in the square and marched, with police escort, to Macedonia Baptist Church to honor the life and work of Dr. King.

The event opened with a prayer by Tyrone Adams director of the Georgetown Alliance of Churches. He thanked the assembly for a peaceful, heartfelt and loving march; “May hearts be changed that others may be changed as well.”

The parade was escorted

by Officer Justin Robbins, and led by Georgetown HS Navy Jr. ROTC. Led by Macedonia’s own Paulette Taylor, the participants sang “We Shall

Overcome” every step of the way to the church.

The program of music and speakers at the church was suffused with joyful noise and fellowship. Hands and hearts raised with gospel music and strong sense of community.

Southwestern University was represented by Ms. Kabi Kamua from the Ebony group. Her gospel and negro spirituals brought the crowd to tears. Ebony brings awareness to black and other minority groups at the University.

GISD Director of HR Cheryl Hoover spoke to the young people about integrity, humility and the importance of education.

Gifted speaker and musician Paulette Taylor played all the hymns from memory.

Mayor Dale Ross remarked, “This is the best Georgetown celebration I can remember. It was great to see the church overflowing with the biggest crowd we’ve ever had.”

Did You Know?

• Martin Luther King Jr.’s name was originally Michael. His father was also Michael King, hence why he was a Junior. However, after a trip to Germany in 1931, Michael King Sr. changed his own name in homage to historic German theologian Martin Luther. Michael Jr. was two years old at the time and Michael Sr. made the decision to change his

holidays. It was officially observed in all 50 states for the first time in 2000.

New Hampshire was the last state to celebrate it as the King-named holiday.

• The Japanese city of Hiroshima holds a special banquet at the mayor’s office as an act of unifying his city’s call for peace with King’s message of human rights.

son’s name as well.

• When Dr. King won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, he was the youngest man to receive the award.

• He divided the $54,000 Nobel prize among civil rights organizations.

• He is only the third American whose birthday is commemorated as a federal holiday, a distinction not even granted Ben

Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, or FDR, 44 years after his death.

• Nov 2, 1983 in the Rose Garden, President Reagan signed a law that the third Monday in January represent Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. At first, some states resisted observing the holiday as such, giving it alternative names or combining it with other

GISD Executive Director of Human Resources, Cheryl Lang-Hoover

Photo Top: SW Student De Andre Woods Walker, Mayor Dale Ross, Paulette Taylor, Event Director Tyrone Adams.

Bottom: Georgetown PD Chief Wayne Nero on the march with Ty Gipson, owner of Minuteman Press in Georgetown.

Chad Jackson, Jr. (2) enjoys his first march atop Chad Jackson, Sr.

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE

LAW ENFORCEMENT / JUSTICE

Inaugural “Coffee with the Captain” Positive Reflections of National Issues at the Local Level

Event creators Captain Evelyn McLean and 7-Eleven Franchise owner Meddy Tekle JAN 21—The Williams Drive 7-Eleven hosted the first of what promises to be a regular, and important series of events.

The Georgetown Police Department held its first official “Coffee with the Captain,” which turned out to be coffee with the captain, the chief, CSU and more than a dozen other officers and members of the department.

The officers bought coffee for and had conversation with customers and almost as many members of the press. In fact, every lo-

media stories about police throughout the country had trickled down to a local level,” says Captain McLean. “We are not a reactive police department. For example, all of our officers have had body cameras well over a year, ahead of any incident. We are not hosting Coffee with the Captains in reaction to any local event, rather community relations is part of our everyday mantra. Case in point, we have one of the largest volunteer programs in the State and our police work closely with these

cal media outlet, including KXAN and the Statesman, were interested in what the national temperature of police relationships looks like at the local level.

The intent was to listen to residents and establish closer ties with the community. The owner of the 7-Eleven store, Meddy Tekle, recently shared with Captain Evelyn McLean a conversation with a customer who felt negatively toward local police.

“Hearing Ms. Tekle’s story, it became apparent to me that the recent adverse

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volunteers providing for the public.”

McLean added, “Morning coffee is a great way to reach out to the people of Georgetow, and at the same time we are focusing on our relationship with business owners. This is a place where people will always be stopping in for gas or coffee; it’s kind of hub of friendly interaction for all the demographics in the city.”

Store employee Lee Wilson said she was pleased to see all the regulars this morning and so many other interested citizens. “People sometimes avoid the store if there is a large police presence here, but this will have a positive impact on our visitors.”

Tekle has been in Georgetown for four years and said she didn’t expect this kind of response; “Nationally, police relationships are a big deal right now, but Georgetown is a peaceful place and we are lucky our officers care like this. I have the best customers too; they are always respectful and happy.”

McLean is a regular customer and frequently buys coffee for others. She talks to customers on a regular basis and having a special event seemed like an organic extension of that daily rapport.

Chris Bachler, a regular customer, was interviewed

by KXAN-TV and although he appreciated the free coffee, he said “I think this will encourage more respect for the department and getting the community involved will make us all one team.”

Officer Alan McDonald says the department is al-

Georgetown residents Vince and Erma Bonacci with Police Chief Wayne Nero

Chris Bachler enjoyed a free coffee and thanked the department for the outreach. He was featured on the noon newscast. ready setting up and getting the word out for other meet & greets in Sun City and on the east side of town.

“As word gets around and we gain traction, we will have more and more traffic.

Good rapport and relationships begin down here at the troop level, and we don’t always get the chance to visit with the people we work for.”

McDonald also lives in Georgetown and “you couldn’t pay me to work anywhere else.” He says the department is well supported by the community and he is thankful for gestures above and beyond from residents wishing to show

their appreciation.

Just another example of what one officer said, “There’s a reason everyone wants to live in Georgetown.”

Georgetown Police invites residents to get involved with the Department through various means such as attending the Citizen Police Academy, becoming a Volunteer in Police Services, joining the Police Explorer program (ages 14-20), or participating in a ride-along with an officer.

For more information on community programs, contact Captain McLean at (512) 930-8408.

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THE ADVOCATE  JANUARY 27, 2015

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LAW ENFORCEMENT / JUSTICE

New Justice for Human Trafficking Victims “In Plain Sight” Documentary Premiere in Georgetown A paradigm shift in law

enforcement means there are no longer such things as “child prostitutes.”

More on that in a minute.

The Williamson County Juvenile Justice Center hosted a networking event at City Lights Theater for regional law enforcement organizations January 14.

The meet-n-greet included a showing of the 2014 documentary on sex trafficking in the United States.

Austin is in the center of the “triangle” of Dallas, San Antonio and Houston that feed I-10 and I-35.

Scott Matthew, Executive Director of WCJJC was very pleased to have a packed theater and spoke with the zeal he always shows when able to find solutions for kids. “Our goal is getting local law enforcement to work with advocacy groups to recognize the links between sex trafficking and other crimes. Children are being sold for sex in our state, sometimes even by their parents, who drop them at truck stops on I-35. For many of these kids, getting into detention is a blessing and we’re finding a lot of trafficking is hidden under criminal charges.”

Dawn Owens, Assistant Director of Bell County Juvenile Services, is part of a local round table that addresses this issue. Recently, Dara Hayden from Williamson County Juvenile Services participated and the two women put together the event to raise awareness of this invisible scourge.

Owens says, “It’s about bringing awareness to new groups because there are so few providers familiar with

and who understand the long-term implications and recuperation for victims.

We are about prevention, rescue and restoration. It’s not just about getting girls and women off the streets; they are victims who might need years to overcome physical and emotional scars, much like someone with PTSD.” The documentary tells the stories of six abolitionists around the country who are rescuing and helping restore women to health in shelters and after care homes. Several discussed their personal shock to find out that sex slaves aren’t just in Thailand or India, but in our own cities, on the Internet and even schools.

Hayden explained, “More and more these are not the ‘throwaway’ kids you see in movies. They are middle class, going to school and being picked up right after to spend the night being pimped, victimized, and then back to school. So we are training ourselves to look at kids in different ways. For example, truancy officers can alert us to when a child suddenly starts missing school or showing up late and falling asleep.”

The movie’s producer, Natalie Grant, is also a cofounder of Hope for Justice.

“There is no such thing as a child prostitute. Anyone underage is ‘trafficked’

and almost all of them have suffered neglect and abuse from a young age so they are confused about what is normal.

It happens everywhere in the world but the U.S. is good at hiding it.”

“Long-term solutions are necessary,” Grant says, “because you can’t ask a woman who is running what she wants to do with her life. She may have been told every night for years to get out and make money.

We’re not going to repeat that for her.”

Owens said, “We discover many of these kids when they come in for possession or domestic violence. Our staff are trained to recognize the signs because confining kids for criminal activity victimizes them all over again and we discovered 14 cases in Bell County in just one year.”

Commissioner Cynthia Long said, “It is very eyeopening and a great call to action. There are things we can do in government and at the non-professional level. People don’t want to acknowledge it, but if we continue to ‘live safe’ we won’t solve it.”

DPS Lt. Jeff Buuck says, “It is a top priority for us and we are constantly revising our process through experience. It gets tricky when trafficking victims commit crimes and create other victims. So, we are collaborating and building relationships because in the end, it’s not just a law

enforcement issue.”

What can be done?

Redeem Ministries of Austin serves sex trafficking victims exclusively.

Operations Director Calli Norris worked overseas and was heartbroken over the slavery she witnessed.

When she found out it was happening here too, she had to do something. The ministry is partnering with law enforcement and looking for financial support to maintain a 30-day shelter for women to give them a chance to get off the street and assess the level of after care they will need. “Some have difficulty leaving their lifestyle and become a disruption. Some as old as 40 have come to us and they aren’t able to deal with the change, so they need time to transition.” Visit RedeemMinistries.com to help.

City Lights will be showing “In Plain Sight” as a fundraiser for Redeemed Ministries and Traffick911.

See sidebar.

Visit www.wilcoonline. com for information about other local organizations working to end trafficking.

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tudents hear one question year after year...“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Perhaps not in those exact words, but the meaning is the same.

Youth of today are given opportunities from K-12 to help them choose career paths. Those opportunities come in many forms, from extracurricular activities such as sports and academic competitions to CTE Programs and to groups like Student Council and FFA. The Jarrell FFA group had one such opportunity when they were invited to the Capital Land and Livestock headquarters as

owner Jim Schwertner’s guests. As one of the largest livestock dealers in the United States, Capital Land and Livestock is well known to most everyone in the Agriculture business.

Ag Science teachers Shandy Bizzell and Wes McCarley accompanied 17 of their students to the CLL operation in Schwertner January 23.

Students were invited to Schwertner’s office to hear details on the daily operations of CLL. Schwertner also shared his thoughts on being successful and choosing the path that is right for them.

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what you are talking about and articulating your words is very important,” added Schwertner.

The tour continued with a trip out on the cat-walk above the cattle that came in the night before, then brief stops in at the sales, administration and accounting offices, followed by a stop at the scales to see how they weigh full truckloads of cattle at a time, accurate within a few pounds. As the group descended the stairs at the completion of the tour, Schwertner invited them to stop by or call anytime with any questions that they may have. He reminded them that they were always looking for interns and employees who were willing to work.

Future tours were discussed by Schwertner, Bizzell and McCarley.

Photos top L-R: Land & Cattle headquarters • Jim Schwertner emphasizing hard work (Students Chris Hart, Mark Nemec, Brent Patton, Kody Cockerham, Ethyn Payne, Ryan Fullerton, Katelee Daugherty, Nick Tucker, Jayden Smith, Zach, Fulp, Shyanne Bailey, Brycen Neal, Anthony Torres, Chance Colbert, Brad Green, Daja Goldsby and Richard Harkness • Tour initiates conversation between Mr. McCarley and Chris Hart • Schwertner and Bizzell discussing specific areas • A final hand shake between Schwertner and Bizzell before the group boarded the bus back to Jarrrell High School

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CITIZEN OF THE YEAR WARDEN, CONT FROM P.1 nity events.

and he did that to the best of his ability in all parts of his life.”

Reaching beyond his immediate congregation, Warden had a deep concern for the spiritual and physical well-being of his entire community, both in Jarrell and in Salado where

His heart for preparation and compassion extended to anyone in need.

Paula shares that whenever he was approached with any kind of need - financial, emotional or physical - he never hesitated to meet it without question or judgment. But John’s care

some maintenance jobs on their farm, and clean out a decades over-stuffed garage so Paula could park her car there. While Paula doesn’t try to over-spiritualize these events, she says each one, in retrospect, bolsters her faith in God’s care for her, and absolutely exemplifies who her husband was−and

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John and Paula at the Grand Canyon last year.

he pastored Grace Baptist Church for fourteen years prior to founding New Hope. After the F-5 tornado struck Jarrell in 1997, John was one of the first on the scene, acting as a type of spiritual first responder, and in some instances steering actual first responders who were uncharacteristically taken aback by the devastation before them. Paula recalls John telling her that one emergency worker kept shaking her head and saying, “We weren’t prepared for this…” That became a motivating mantra for John, who picked up the mantle of helping the communities he cared about become prepared, physically as well. In the wake of the tornado, he helped develop and actively worked on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Salado, a place that frequently floods, and later in Jarrell.

Day-to-day, John was a mentor to many, especially men, in his community who got to know him through bible studies and commu-

always extended beyond bandaging the immediate wound; he was concerned about people’s spiritual state, and would always offer the love of Jesus as the ultimate solution.

“He wanted people to be ready for eternity,” says Paula.

And as his unexpected passing starkly illustrates, no one can be sure that they have another day.

Paula and their three grown children, Doug, Melanie and Marissa and their families, are probably the best testament to his legacy. While understandably grieving their loss, Paula asserts that there is “absolutely no anger at God or anyone about this in our family.” She poignantly points to John’s attitude of preparation in their home and family. Alongside the unwavering faith in Christ that he instilled in his children, John made preparations in the months and weeks before his death, that, looking back, Paula unequivocally categorizes as “a God thing.” While she asserts that she never had any indication that John was in any way anticipating that he wouldn’t be around, his spirit of not waiting to do things motivated him to take her on a long-postponed vacation to the Grand Canyon, teach their son-in-law to do

what he wanted others to know about God. John’s message− in Paula’s words, “He was always ready for Heaven, really excited to get to be there some day.

He would want people to know Heaven is real and true, and anyone can have this assurance through faith in Jesus Christ.”

John Warden’s other legacy, New Hope Baptist Church in Jarrell (affectionately known as “the Barn Church” around town) continues to thrive. “Of course, we had to re-direct our course and we lost a few people,” says Paula, “but the church is not about one man, it’s about Jesus.” New Hope has recently formed a pastor search committee and is prayerfully seeking a new leader. In the interim, several long-time pastor friends of the Wardens are alternating leading the Sunday services, and New Hope’s Pastor of Outreach and Recovery, and Jarrell Fire Chief, Mark McAdams conducts the Wednesday evening service. New Hope began construction on a community prayer garden in John’s memory this past fall.

The Advocate will sponsor a community reception in John Warden’s honor in February. Look for details in upcoming issues of the Advocate, online at WilcoOnline.com, or on Facebook/JarrellStarLedger.

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE

JARRELL

New JISD Stadium to Open in 2015-2016 School Year

by Deborah Marquis

Records are made to

be broken... Not how an article about a new football stadium is expected to start, but this particular record is the reason that the new stadium is needed.

According to a report from JISD Superintendent Dr. Bill Chapman the enrollment for Jarrell ISD surpassed the 1300 mark.

Official enrollment as of Friday, January 23, 2015, was 1301. This number won’t stand for long, as a steady increase has been seen since the beginning of this school year.

This growth necessitates that facilities grow as well, as evidenced by the opening

of the new Middle School at the beginning of this year, the construction of a new gym on the Middle school campus, the current construction in progress at the High School, and now the approval of a new stadium on the High School campus. The addition to the High School is on track, with the expectation of steel going up in February.

The addition and the new middle school gym are both on schedule.

The plans for the new stadium were presented to the Board of Trustees by Hellas Construction of Austin at their January meeting. The Board approved spending a total of $3.518 million.

Funds will go toward an

addition of 1600 seats to the home side stands, a new press box on the home side with a covered rooftop deck, and moving the old press box to the visitors’ side. There will also be a 2900 square-foot climate controlled restroom/concession stand facility, a new home side ticket booth, new scoreboard, new track and artificial turf. These items will be paid for with proceeds from the existing bond package, with no expectation of a raise in taxes.

In addition, $452,000 from the district’s fund balance will be used to build a 70’x70’ weight room. All projects should be complete for the 2015-2016 school year.

Jarrell Basketball: Winning Has Become Tradition

by Deborah Marquis

In recent years, the month

of February brings on travel plans for the fans of the Jarrell Cougar and Lady Cougar basketball

teams. Well, fans get ready, because post season play is once again in the future for these young athletes.

Both teams will once again provide extended seasons for all to enjoy.

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The Cougars have five more games on the schedule, with four of those being at home.

Coach Sumner is leading a team comprised of young men from all grade levels this year. The team is undefeated in district with a record of 6-0. Catching a game is easy with their home appearances January 30th, February 6th, 10th and 17th; or with a short drive to Georgetown on February 3rd for a game against Gateway, or to Lago Vista on February 13th.

Of course, excitement is very much in the air when the Lady Cougars are on the court as well, since

they too are undefeated in district with a 7-0 record.

There are only three more chances to catch the Lady Cougars on the court at home and they happen to be the final three games of the regular season. They will be in action on January 30th, February 6th and 10th at home, with post season following soon after.

Games that are scheduled for February 10th against Florence will have a can food drive for admission to help restock the pantry at the Jarrell United Methodist Church.

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Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. ~1 Peter 3:15

presents the Jarrell Chamber of Commerce Gala

Everyone is invited to attend the 2015 Gala to be held February 21, 2015 at 6 PM. Tickets are $100 and include dinner and $20 in casino chips to get your night started.

Open Bar wristbands are available prior to the event for an additional $25. This is the Chamber’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

Tickets are limited, so act fast.

At the end of the night each $20 in chips is worth one raffle ticket for our Grand Prize valued at $1000. The more chips, the more chances to win. One lucky winner will be drawn for a weekend getaway for two to the WinStar Casino and Resort in Oklahoma.

Contact info@jarrellcoc. com or 512-677-5501 to purchase tickets.

THE ADVOCATE  JANUARY 27, 2015

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9

PEOPLE G EO R G ETO W N IC O N

Robert “Bob” Payne • 1938-2015 Note: Parts of this article are adapted from an obituary that Bob wrote himself. During his illness he wrote down his story so his beloved wife, Edith, would not have to.

Smith of Ijamsville, Maryland.

The Payne family served tours of duty in Scotland, Hawaii, Guam, Jacksonville, Florida, and Washington, D.C. Upon his retirement in 1979, Bob became the Manager obert “Bob” Payne of Leander died of Facilities forMRI/Intel, later SAS InstiJan 12. Bob was born in Big Spring, on tute Inc. of Austin, Texas where he served 19 November 1938. His family moved to 23 years before retiring for the second, and Pasadena, California, during World War final, time.

He was active in community affairs, volunteering with the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, and the Temple, Texas and Cedar Park, Texas Veterans Affairs Offices. He sat on the Military Affairs Council of the Austin Chamber of Commerce and was active in the International Facilities Management Association and the Williamson County Republican Party.

Bob liked to hunt, play golf and write in his spare time. He authored three books, including “Earhart’s Flight into Yesterday: The Facts without the Payne, the Storyteller, where he could always be found on a Saturday Fiction” (how the mystery of her last flight afternoon, giving a tour of the old Courthouse. was finally solved), “The Civilian Job Market, A Military Planning II, returning to Texas where they lived in Guide and Workbook” and “A Collection Midland, Quemado, Lake Jackson, and Bay of Essays, Poems, and Other Stuff.” and City, where he joined the Navy in 1955, “Guinn Rogers, an American Hero,” as retiring in 1979 after a 25-year career. Mr. well as political and social essays.

Payne served with honor in many foreign In addition to writing, Bob served as a countries including a tour at Guantanamo judge for the Texas Book Festival, in the Naval Base, Cuba, during the Cuban Misnon-fiction category, and also taught a class sile Crises and a combat tour with the U.S. on Writing Non-Fiction in the Georgetown Marines in Vietnam. A much decorated area. Bob was Editor of the Naval Cryptoveteran, Bob received 63 medals, ribbons, logic Veterans Association newsmagazine, awards, decorations and Letter citations CRYPTOLOG and edited the VA newsletduring his naval service. Bob married Edith

R

Above: Decorated Navy man Bob Payne.

Right: Dressed as “Three-Legged Willie” county founder Robert McAlpin Williamson, an icon of his day. ter, REACHOUT, and the award-winning IFMA Journal.

Bob was an officer in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and as a member of the Military Officers of America, the American Legion, The Fleet Reserve Association and the Disabled American Veterans organizations.

He also found time to volunteer at the Williamson Museum in Georgetown, and became a tour guide and docent at theHistoric old Williamson County Courthouse.

He also portrayed Robert McAlpin Williamson, who was known as “ThreeLegged Willie.”

In 2012 he became a member of the Williamson Museum board and Executive Director Mickie Ross explained, “He was always involved in anything he could be.

In the past two years, he took on all the courthouse tours and could often be found around the Square rounding up tour participants. He always came over early and stayed all day.”

Payne penned a play about 3-Legged

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Willie, which was performed in Sun City and at the Courthouse. He was a great lover of history—he toured all 254 courthouses in Texas— and was an expert on all things Dan Moody; he even had a role in the last “You Can’t Do That, Dan Moody”, performed at the courthouse.

Ross added, “People didn’t know but he was a great handyman and could build anything. He was really involved putting things together at the museum and designed many things to make our lives here easier.”

Bob is survived by his wife, Edith; and his son, Walter; daughter, Maria; grandson, Robert; and his three sisters, Zona Faye, Jackie and Debbie; and a large, extended family, all of whom he loved deeply and completely.

Bob’s final request is that we all remember, “The Golden Rule applies, in all things, at all times and in all places.”

Look for details about Payne’s memorial service on our Facebook page or at WilcoOnline.com.

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6:30 pm - Cocktails & Art Auction 7:15 pm - Performance of ‘The Wizard of BiG’ followed by Dinner & Dancing

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE

FAMILY LIFE

Building Better Brains

by Jim Kelley

LOCAL WRITER One of the most important studies on the human brain began in 1986 at the University of Minnesota.

David Snowden began a collection of brains donated by the nuns from the School Sisters of Notre Dame in Mankato, Minnesota. Of the nearly 700 brains collected thus far, the average rate of brain disorders related to dementia was consistent with the rate in the normal population. The striking difference was that the sisters did not exhibit the memory loss and dysfunction associated with the disease process. Although the supernatural can easily be assumed due to the sampling source, researchers focused on the lifestyle that is unique to these women.

This discovery has been seminal in later research investigating possible causes for this wonderful outcome.

• Diet included no processed or fast foods • Prepared their own food, maintained their facilities, and performed their own daily chores • Early to bed-early to rise • An engaged community united in purpose • Physically active • Purposed to serve God and others to the denial of themselves • Maintained a discipline of keeping their conscience clear before God and man • Studied Scripture daily • Practiced various forms of extended prayer • Committed themselves to the success of fellow nuns • Taught and practiced Christian meditations • Abstained from pointless amusements, television, video games, etc.

• Practiced moderation in food and alcohol consumption • Practiced regular exercises of memorization • Daily praise and worship • Abstained from smoking and substance abuse • Practiced personal responsibility in all things All of these habits have been investigated by universities and institutions via numerous studies, with results published in a wide variety of professional,

peer-reviewed journals.

Isn’t it fascinating that modern research has verified that these ancient practices protect and maintain brains challenged with various dementing processes.

Exo 15:26 Saying, If you will diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord your God and will do what is right in His sight, and will listen to and obey His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases upon you which I brought upon the Egyptians, for I am the Lord Who heals you.

Jim Kelley is an ordained minister who uses current research and developing EEG technologies to augment an intense form of pastoral care, which is designed to address the complete person. After his first pastorate in 1972, he left traditional pastoral care to search out the causes and solutions for moral mental, spiritual and physical failures so common in the church. This included 15 years performing psychological services for several government organizations that met the needs of the elderly, the young, the abused and the mentally ill. He is certified as a practitioner and trainer in the field of neurofeedback and is certified as a quantitative EEG technologist. Contact Jim at The Center For Power-Filled Living at 512-869-0936 or visit ChristNeuro.org.

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2/28/15.

THE ADVOCATE  JANUARY 27, 2015

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11

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Special Events Friday, Jan 30 9am - Noon FREE Veterans & Military Career Fair, Heroes Night Out Center, 1150 S. Bell Blvd., Cedar Park. See Austin Fire Department, Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Dept. of Public Safety (DPS), FedEx, TxARNG Guard & Reserve, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Austin Plumbers & Welders Local, Peak Performers, Express Pros, G4S Secure Solutions, TX Dept. of Ins, City of Cedar Park, TX Alcoholic Bev Com, Walgreen’s of Cedar Park, and Univ. of Phoenix.

Fri, Jan 30 5:30pm-7:30 pm History Happy Hour with the Williamson Museum, at the historic Courthouse on the Square in Georgetown. Visit 1860 and a debate in support of and against secession, then vote while enjoying period cocktails and appetizers! $15/person or $10/ Museum members. Reserve now at 512-943-1670, as space is limited. Contact Mickie Ross at 512943-1674 or mross@williamsonmuseum.org.

Friday, Feb 13 6pm 2nd Annual BiG Valentine’s Art Auction, Dinner & Dance Fundraiser The Taylor Mansion, 2109 East Fourth St. $75/ person - all proceeds benefit Brookwood in Georgetown (BiG). Reservations, annem@ brookwoodcommunity.org or inquire at the BiG Shop, 202 Austin Ave. in Georgetown.

BrookwoodCommunity.org/Georgetown.

Monday, Feb 16, 5-7:30 pm Bartlett UMC Annual Pancake Supper at 715 W. Clark St. Bartlett. All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes, Bacon, Coffee & More! $8 Adults/ $5 12 & Under. Carry-out available. Benefits the maintenance & preservation of historic Bartlett UMC building.

Saturday, February 21 6 pm Jarrell Chamber of Commerce Gala at Schwertner Ranch Event Center, 1200 Lindemann Rd., Schwertner. Tickets - $100/per-

son and include dinner and $20 in casino chips. Open Bar wristbands are available in advance for $25. At the end of the night each $20 in chips is worth one raffle ticket for the Grand Prize a $1000 weekend getaway for two to the WinStar Casino and Resort in Oklahoma. Contact info@jarrellcoc.com or 512-677-5501 for tickets.

Weekly Events Georgetown

AA Meetings Mon - 10 am, Wed & Fri - 3 pm at the Scott & White Clinic located at 4945 Williams Dr. Saturdays - 9:30 am at The Worship Place located at 811 Sun City Blvd..

Heroes Night Out Center

1150 S Bell Blvd, Cedar Park

Tues & Thurs‑ - 9:30 am Peer to peer Donuts & Coffee Wednesdays - Noon Peer to peer pizza lunch Wednesdays - 7 pm Veteran Support Group (at HNO Center AND at Akins High School at 10701 S. 1st St, Austin) Thursdays - 7 pm Combat Veteran Support Grp (at HNO Center)

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FREE ESL Classes -Wednesdays - 9:30 am - Noon presented by Friendship International at Round Rock First Baptist Church (First Life Center), 306 Round Rock Ave. 2014 2015 session runs through May 2015.

A fun place for learning English (levels 1-5) or practicing English while creating crafts, sewing, cooking, painting, learning about computers, or preparing for citizenship. New members welcomed each week and choose free classes. Visit friendshiprr.org, email friendship@fbcrr.org or call Molly at 512468-4236.

Potluck Meal & Bible Study Wednesdays - 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Calvary Chapel of Georgetown, 3400 Shell Road.

Youth group meets. Childcare provided. calvarygt.org. 512-966-9040 for info.

Royal Rangers & MPact Girls Wednesdays - 7 pm - 8:15 pm at River of Life Church, 6040 Airport Road, Georgetown. All ages are welcome ~ infant to adult!

For info, contact April at 512-863-0854.

Healing Rooms of G’town Thursdays 7 pm - 8 pm River of Life Church (6040 Airport Road) is bringing the Power of God’s Love & Healing to those in need, wherever they may be. If you or a loved one are in need of God’s Divine Healing, please contact Michelle at 512-508-3222 or 512863-0854. You may also email us at HealingOutreachMinistry@gmail.com. RiverOfLifegt.org

“All You Can Eat” Public Meal Wednesdays - 6-8 pm at American Legion Post 317, located at 201 W. FM 487 in Jarrell. $6 per person - dine in or carry-out.

Florence

Florence Noon Lions Club 1st & 3rd Wednesdays - Noon at the Florence Fire Hall, 301 Brewster St. Community Wide Fellowship & Game Day 1st & 3rd Wednesdays - 1 pm at First Baptist Church of Florence, 106 College Ave, Florence. Seniors 55+ welcome! Call (254) 793-2991 for info & transportation.

Monthly Events Georgetown

Stroke Support Group 1st Tuesday of the Month at 1 pm at 201 Seton Parkway, Learning Center, Round Rock.

Stroke survivors as well as their families and caregivers are invited to join us for education and support. Reservations are required. Contact Eduardo S. Maqueda at 512-324-4000 x 20911 or emaqueda@seton.org.

Cardiac Support Network Group 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 10 am at 201 Seton Parkway, Round Rock. Open to anyone wanting to learn about heart disease including how to prevent, reverse, and treat. For more information, contact Lydia Terry at (512) 3244000 ext. 21828 or laterry@seton.org.

Special Friends - Alzheimers Caregivers Support - Thursdays 10 am -2 pm Special Friends is a free, weekly respite care program that gives caretakers a few hours of free time. Special Friends meet in the foyer of the Worship Place in Sun City, 811 Sun City Blvd.; volunteers plan special activities, serve lunch, and truly have a fun time. Volunteers needed. Call Cheryl White (512) 864-1380 or Carol Cockrell (512) 240-9103.

Georgetown AGLOW 3rd Tuesday of the Month at 7 pm at Georgetown Parks & Recreation Ad Bldg, 1101 N College St., Georgetown. For further info, contact. Teresa Tucker (512) 355-2433.

Wolf Ranch Farmers Market Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm Wolf Ranch Ctr, 1015 W. University Ave, Rain or shine. wolfranchfarmersmarket.com

Memory Loss, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease, 4th Tuesday of the Month 11 am - 12:15 pm at the GHF Community Room, 2423 Williams Dr., Ste. 101, Gtown. This free program offers information about Alzheimer’s disease, signs, diagnosis, treatment options, coping tips & resources. Registration required. (512) 241-0420 or email txprograms@txalz.org.

VFW Post 8587 1000 College St Saturdays - 8 pm - Midnight “Freedom Karaoke” Sundays - Noon until ?

NFL Sunday Ticket - watch the games on 4 Flat Screen TVs Central Texas 912 Project Saturdays 9:30 am The Central Texas 9-12 Project is a community of American Patriots who have come together to restore our nation to its historical foundations. CenTex 912 discusses issues and create plans of action to influence our local, state and national leaders. Location varies visit www.centex912project.com for details.

Jarrell

Seniors’ Luncheons Mondays starts at 11 am at American Legion Post 317, located at 201 W. FM 487 in Jarrell. A $2 donation is requested.

Wednesdays starts at 11 am at the Jarrell Memorial Park Community Center, 1651 CR 305 in Jarrell. A $3 donation is requested.

Jarrell Noon Lions Club Mondays - 11:30 am at American Legion Post 317, located at 201 W. FM 487 in Jarrell.

VFW Post 8587 Monthly Meeting 3rd Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 pm 1000 College St, Georgetown. Call 512-8632535 for more info.

Williamson County Detachment #1022 of the Marine Corps League Last Wednesday of the Month at 7 pm at the VFW Hall, 1000 College St, Georgetown for dinner and meeting. All Marines and FMF Corpsman are invited to attend.

San Gabriel Writer’s League 1st Thursday of the Month - 6:30 pm at the Georgetown Public Library, 2nd Floor. All novice and authors welcome. www.sgwl.net.

Parkinson’s Support Group 4th Thursday of the Month at 2 pm in the Georgetown Health Foundation rooms at 2423 Williams Drive. This group is open to patients, caregivers, spouses, family, and friends. For information, contact Mary Jane Berry at 240-4167; dberry3@suddenlink.net.

Heroes Night Out 1st Friday of the Month 6 pm - 8 pm at the HNO Center, 1150 S Bell Blvd, Cedar Park. Free Peer to Peer dinner and show (kidfriendly) for veterans and families. Register online at heroesnightout.org.

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Marine Corps League Spaghetti Dinner 2nd Friday of the Month 5 pm - 7 pm at the VFW Hall, 1000 College St, Georgetown. All you can eat spaghetti, meatballs, bread, salad, & a drink $8 adults / $5 children. Proceeds go to the annual scholarship fund for Marine Corps JrROTC. VFW Fish Fry Last Friday of the Month 5:30 pm - 7 pm at the VFW Post 8587, 1000 College St, Georgetown. All you can eat catfish, chicken strips, fries, hush puppies, beans, potato salad, coleslaw & a drink $10 adults / $5 children. Proceeds benefit scholarship & veteran’s programs.

Fleet Reserve Assn. Branch 201 2nd Saturday of the Month - 7:30 pm at the IHOP in Pflugerville, 14310 S. I-35. For more info, go to fra.org.

Jarrell

“All You Can Eat” Fish Fry, 3rd Sunday of the month from 11 am - 1 pm at American Legion Post 317, located at 201 W. FM 487 in Jarrell. The cost is $9 per person.

Jarrell School Board 2nd Monday of the month - 7 pm at the Jarrell ISD Administration Building, 312 N. Fifth St. in Jarrell.

Sonterra MUD 3rd Monday of the month - 6 pm at the Sonterra MUD office, 113 Limestone Terrace Jarrell Livestock Association 4th Monday of the month - 7 pm at the Jarrell Memorial Park Community Center, located at 1651 CR 305 ESD #5 3rd Monday of the month - 6:30 pm at Fire Station #2, 155 CR 313 E, Jarrell, TX. Jarrell City Council 4th Tuesday of the month - 7 pm at the Jarrell Municipal Building located at 161 Town Center Blvd. in Jarrell.

Jarrell-Schwertner Water Board 2nd Wednesday of the month - 7 pm at the Jarrell Memorial Park Community Center, located at 1651 CR 305 in Jarrell.

Jarrell Chamber of Commerce. 3rd Wed of the month - 11:30 am at the Sonterra Community Pool Clubhouse, 616 Copper Ct. Catered lunch - $10/person.

Florence

Florence PTA 1st Monday of the month - 5:45 pm at the Florence Elementary Cafeteria. All parents are welcome – the PTA supports the Elementary, Middle & High Schools.

Florence Chamber of Commerce 4th Monday of the month - 12 pm at Florence Diner, 208 E Main St. Florencechamberofcommerce.org Florence City Council 1st Tuesday of the month - 7 pm at Florence City Hall, 106 S. Patterson in Florence.

To have your community, church, or non-profit event posted on our calendar, visit: WilcoOnline.com click on “Submit A Calendar Event”

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE

IN MEMORIAM

Donna Cowan Brown • 1955 ~ 2015 Donna Cowan Brown, 59, of Salado, Texas, passed away peacefully January 14 leaving a legacy behind.

Donna was a faithful member of First Baptist Church Belton and lived her life through Proverbs 31.

She was devoted to her loving husband, Steve, for 36 years, and a perfect mother to her three children.

Donna was born December 16, 1955. She grew up in Killeen, Texas and graduated high school from Round Rock, Texas. She received her Bachelor’s

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degree in music from Southwestern University of Georgetown.

Donna was a master teacher for 25 years at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She was also the founding owner of Kids’ Zone Inc., with locations in Central Texas.

Her other interests included ranching, music, art, and quilting. She touched countless lives through her teaching and civic endeavors. To know her was to love her.

She is survived by her

husband, Steve Brown.

Her three children: McKenzie Brown Teer and husband Nic; their children Caelan, Ben and Jax. Zachary Brown and wife Debi.

Whitney Brown Hicks and husband Matt; their two children Tatum and Harper. Her mother LaRue Cowan, her siblings Rick Cowan and wife Karen, Janet Cowan Shapiro and husband Dave. Also, many nieces and nephews. Donna is preceded in death by her father, M. J. Cowan.

In lieu of flowers, the

family asked for your support for one of her very favorite charities: Shepherd’s Rest/Hope for the Hungry, PO Box 786, Belton, TX 76513.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and therapists of Scott and White Memorial Hospital and Scott and White Continuing Care Hospital.

Services were held at First Baptist Church Belton on Monday, January 19, 2015 with Pastor Andy Davis officiating.

To God be the glory.

John Rewjuk • 1929 ~ 2015

vsk, Ukraine to Agneta Jakuschew. As a young man, he immigrated with his mother and brother to the United States; eventually serving in the U.S. Air Force. He married Billie Jo (Pleasant) Rewjuk of Austin, and they had two lovely daughters. John served faithfully in the military for 24 years; his work taking him and his family to Okinawa and Germany, as well as to many different U.S. states. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in history and worked as a real estate broker. John lived with his wife and daughters in Austin for many years, then relocated to Jarrell after retirement.

There, John enjoyed taking care of his kitties, being involved with the city council, and attending weekly senior luncheons, where he entertained the crowds with his jokes and laughter. He often perused joke books for new ways to entertain, and always had a punchline at the ready for friends and family members; his sense of John Rewjuk of Jarrell, Texas passed away humor will be greatly missed. He loved peacefully in his sleep the morning of Januto play, and really enjoyed making people ary 17, 2015. He was 85 years old. Funeral laugh. He loved his family. “Opa” enjoyed services were held January 27, 2015 at taking his grandchildren out to get ice Cook-Walden Capital Parks Funeral Home cream in the summers and sending them and Cemetery in Pflugerville. “funnies” in the mail.

John was born in 1929 in DnepropetroHe was preceded in death by his parents, including his step-father Wanya Jakuschew, his siblings and one daughter, Karen Auzenne.

John is survived by his wife, Billie Jo; his daughter Kathryn McLain and husband Al8626 FM 1105 • Jarrell len McLain of Lampasas; his 512-863-3020 son-in-law Arnold Auzenne of Austin; and five grandchildren: Viktor Auzenne, Brent McLain and wife Audrey, Jana (McLain) Huff and husband Andrew, Kevin McLain and wife Stephanie, and Phillip McLain.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill

Weekend Masses: Saturday 5 pm Sunday 8:30 am I-35 Exit 271 2.5 miles east on CR 311

www.holytrinityofcornhill.org

Sunday Services

St. Joseph’s

Episcopal Church 881 N. Main St. Salado, TX 254.947.3160 Sundays: 9:30 am Sunday School Sundays: 11 am Holy Eucharist www.stjosephsalado.org

SUNDAY SERVICES: 8:30 am Early Worship 9:45 am Sunday School 11 am Late Worship

Sunday School: 9:45 am | Worship: 11am Sunday Evening Service: 6 pm Adult Service & Youth Service (7th -12th grade)

210 S. Main St. Salado, TX 76571 254.947.5465

www.fbcsalado.org

Wednesday Services: 7 pm

New Hope Baptist ChurcH

“The Barn Church”

Adult Bible Study RA & GA(Boys & Girls 1st - 6th grades) Youth Group (7th -12th grade)

1700 CR 305 | Jarrell, TX | (512) 746-2828

THE ADVOCATE  JANUARY 27, 2015

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CLASSIFIEDS Classified Advertising POSITIONS AVAILABLE

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Experienced Scale House Operator

Welders/Fabricators Wanted

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Bi-lingual skills a plus; Call Becky 512-626-8765

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Administrative Assistant

(DOT Record and Computer Skills Required) Full Time. Jarrell area.

Steve Wadsworth 254-760-6957

Heavy Duty Truck/Equipment Mechanic Minimum 2 Years Experience Call Joe Zizzo 254-681-8204

Truck and Dump/Belly Dump Drivers Wanted

Full Time Florence Area Call Joe Zizzo 254-681-8204

Hiring CDL Truck Drivers. Home every 36 hours. We offer Health Insurance, 401K and Paid Vacation. Bi-annual raises with Get Paid to WAVE! If you wear the potential of 45¢ per running mile. Must be frown you can’t wear the crown! Hiring a least 25 years old, with a minimum of energetic, outgoing, happy, smiling two years experience. people to wave at the cars that pass our Call Mike (254) 527-3342.

Liberty Tax stores! Those who like to “Rock-out to Music”, dance, or sign spin will be given special consideration (and ANTIQUES more hours)! Liberty Tax Wavers wear the Statue of Liberty costume when they CLIP & SAVE THIS AD! work. If you are looking to be Antique Shoppe & Bookstore discovered, this could be your Website: antiqueshoppe.tictail.com opportunity! Call 512.863.7767 for an or Space 23 at Georgetown Antique appointment/ audition!

Mall on the square

Class A/CDL Required Call Joe Zizzo 254-681-8204

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WANTED ALL MOTORCYCLES before 1980! running or not! Japanese, British, European, American. Top $cash $paid!. Free appraisals! CALL NOW 315 569 8094 email: 1stkickcycles70@gmail.com

Dream Kitchen w/Granite, island, high end appliances, wood style floors 2000 +/- sq. ft on 2 ac • 775 sq ft garage/shop • equipment shed • well

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512-576-6755

FRESH off the Pit DAILY! Now offering

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Steven McC oy Pitmaster 30 Years Exp erience

Join us for

Made-From-Scratch Breakfast Mon. - Thurs. 6:30 am - 8 pm Friday & Saturday 6:30 am - 9 pm Sunday 6:30 am - 7 pm Dine In • Carry Out • Drive-Thru

7 Days a Week 6:30 am - 10:45 am

(512) 746-2900

305 Limestone Terrace (Cougar Plaza) | Jarrell, TX Northbound IH-35 Exit 275/Southbound IH-35 Exit 274

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE

PUBLISHER’S FORUM

Lunch Breaks and Break Breaks?

Gimme A Break!

by Mike Payne

Every now and then an

editorial just falls out of the sky and hits me on the head; and when this happens, I have to write it...

Last week I found myself waiting in line at the Post Office. First of all, this wasn’t your regular ol’ post office line – this was the “I only have thirty minutes for lunch, so let me run all my errands and get back to work on time” kind of line.

In other words, everybody in town was in this line that stretched for a country mile, and all of them had places to be, and most likely, jobs to hurry back to. I stood there (quietly) with my ADHD on full over-drive and rocked, paced, sang a little Johnny Cash under my breath, counted the holes in the ceiling tiles, wondered to myself if the woman ahead of me had washed her hair recently, and then counted the holes in the ceiling tiles again, lest I had made a mistake the first time.

After what seemed an eternity, it was my turn at the counter. This particular postal employee was helpful and friendly despite the mountain of work she literally had lined up in front of her. Seriously, I think she may have been a Girl Scout in disguise since the only thing she didn’t do was to reach under the counter and ask me if I wanted a warm chocolate chip cookie.

So where’s the editorial?

Well, at the desk beside her, was the other type of postal (quasi Federal Government institution) employee. The one who forgot he was in public service, and that the taxpayers he serves pay his salary.

Are you ready for this?

It’s 11:25 am (don’t forget afore mentioned line out the door around the building).

Mr. Public Servant leans over to Ms. Girl Scout and asks, “Have you taken your lunch break yet?” Looking at the line of people in front of her, Ms. Girl Scout responds, “No, I’m going to let ‘Susan’ go ahead of me.” To which Mr. Public Servant replies, “Well that won’t work – I’m leaving at 12:30, and I still have to take my lunch break and my break before I go.”

Now I can’t be sure that Mr. Public Servant is on a 9 to 5 schedule, and leaving at 12:30 doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s taking a half day off (plus a lunch break and a break break); but I can be sure that in the private sector many business owners work eighty to a hundred hours every week to earn enough to live and pay the taxes that result in

this postal employee getting a paycheck every Friday for the work he does (and the lunch breaks and break breaks he gets).

Let’s look at this by the numbers. There are over 30,000 Post Offices in the United States which employ about 500,000 people. If you apply the 80/20 rule and give the benefit of the doubt that 80% of these employees are really misplaced Boy and Girl Scouts, that equals about 400,000 people. Let’s assume that the remaining 20% are really misdirected trolls without a bridge to live under who want their lunch and their break, no matter that they’re off for a half day in 35 minutes, customers be damned. It’s amazing what 100,000 people who have no idea of what a customer is, or where their paycheck comes from, can do to the reputation of 400,000 who are trying to do a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay.

Interestingly, we have a President who thinks our Federal employees, including the U.S. Postal Service, don’t currently get enough breaks... They need more days off! In any private sector business I’ve ever been involved in, breaks were nice, but they never came at the expense of serving the customer, at least not for anyone who wanted to keep their job. Here is just another example of our President spreading his entitlement mentality and agenda to yet another sector of the populace. Giving everybody six more paid days off will fix everything. Why didn’t I think of that?

Creating Reality From Vision

VIP Visit to American Legion Right: American Legion National Commander Mike Helm, accompanied by national and state leadership visited American Legion Post 317 in Jarrell on January 19.

Right: Lorriane Fischer, Post #317 Auxiliary President; Mike Helm, National Commander of the American Legion, John LaVrar III, Jarrell Post #317 Commander.

Ken Peters Jr, SAL Division Commander; Jim Prendergast, National Executive Committeeman; John Hince, Division Commander; Johnny Kabella, Post #317 Chaplain; Lorriane Fischer, Post #317 Auxiliary President; Kathy Bentle, Canteen Manager; Mike Helm, National Commander of the American Legion, John LaVrar III, Jarrell Post #317 Commander; Bill West, State Adjutant; Gerry Hince, State Public Relations Chair; CW “Butch” Sparks, Alternate National Executive Committeeman; Lynn Sparks, State Commander; Fred Rogers, State Vice-Commander.

e m o H

s n a Lo Start Your Search With Us!

We offer an array of mortgage loan products with flexible features designed for EVERYONE!

As You begin The Home Loan Process, Keep These Considerations In Mind.

How Much Can I Afford?

Watching over Jarrell’s growth: • Information on economic development incentives • Assistance with the City’s permitting process • Available land and facilities

Many experts suggest that your monthly housing payment not exceed 30% of your total income.

Ask us about a loan program that’s suitable for you.

How Much Money Will I Need At Closing?

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Your down payment & any costs not paid by the seller will be due at the time of closing.

What Are Closing Costs?

There are a variety of costs needed to fund a loan & purchase a home.

We will let you know about all of these expenses up front.

For More Information:

Tommy Sladecek, Senior Vice President

Eagle Bank, A Branch of Round Top State Bank 512-746-2531 or TSladecek@eagle-bank.com

Equal Housing Lender. Some products may not be available in all states. Credit & collateral are subject to approval.

This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms & conditions are all subject to change without notice.

E.O.E.

THE ADVOCATE  JANUARY 27, 2015

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Business Card Ads • $40 per issue 512-746-4545 DR. GRAHAM, FROM P1 hospitalization and costly diagnostic testing, such as MRIs. In this type of practice, families have made a decision to invest a few dollars a day in their health, and in return, feel comfortable making the appointment they may have previously postponed due to out-ofpocket expense associated with an unmet deductible. Direct Care offers peace of mind that a patient can contact the doctor promptly with a simple question or in an emergency.

Dr. Loy Graham, owner of YourPersonalMD.net in Jarrell explains, “Switching your primary care to this type of practice will allow me to forego the current medical business model, which typically denies adequate time with patients to

comprehensively evaluate their circumstance. The Direct Care model allows me to get to know you, your medical condition, past and present, and to gauge it through a lens that is stronger than just a ‘few minute visit.’

I get to know my patients one on one and don’t have to rush through the process.”

Dr. Graham and YourPersonalMD.net is now seeing patients at 181 Town Center Boulevard, Suite 400, in the Jarrell Town Center. For more information on how you and your family can take advantage of this innovative state-of-the-art medical care, call 512-960-1770 or visit YourPersonalMD.net online.

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HOME AUTO LIFE

Lease Flags for Fundraising The Jarrell ESD #5 invites

residents in Jarrell to display the U.S. flag on five major holidays.

To facilitate this, Sphere Realty and Property Management, is sponsoring a Flag Lease Program and fundraiser for the Fire Department of Jarrell/Sonterra. All of the money raised will go directly to Local ESD #5 for new equipment and training.

For an annual fee of $30, the volunteer group will deliver, set, and pick up flags on Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day and Veterans’ Day. Tom Slowbe, CEO of Sphere explains, “The goal is to build community involvement by having

flags out on special days.

I have seen it in other communities; it looks good and is very patriotic. It’s a great way to bond with neighbors and salute the many veterans in our community.”

Slowbe says the ESD needs money and support and if Jarrell residents are able to commit, it will be a win-win for everyone.

Membership is available now and residents can sign up at www. sphere-realty.com. Billing is not yet automatic, but volunteers will

call to arrange payment.

Sphere will purchase the flags, display, store, and maintain them.

The flags will be the property of ESD #5.

Slowbe is hoping to show community spirit abounds in Jarrell.

“Flags are a vital and natural part of the town’s celebration and activities for all our days of national pride, and can benefit our fire and police in the process.”

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JANUARY 27, 2015  THE ADVOCATE