The Advocate - 2014 Year In Review

2014 IN REVIEW WilCo Page 4 Georgetown Page 5 Jarrell Page 6

FORT HOOD HEROES OP-ED BY CONGRESSMAN JOHN CARTER Page 14

GeorgetownAdvocate @Advocate_TX

DECEMBER 30, 2014

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

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2013 Citizens of the Year Mickie Ross, Director of the Williamson Museum was selected as 2013 Citizen of the Year for Georgetown for her role in “connecting Williamson County to everything!”

Visionary Troy Bradshaw was chosen for his service, investment and contribution to the Jarrell community.

Last January, Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC, parent company of the Advocate, recognized Mickie Ross (Georgetown) and Troy Bradshaw (Jarrell) as the 2013 Citizens of the Year in their respective communities. Recipients of

this award are citizens who serve as inspirational role models, and whose influence makes a significant civic or economic impact on their community. The 2014 winners will be announced in the January 13, 2015 issue of the Advocate.

CITY DESK

Recycling Options for Christmas Trees & Boxes

CITY OF GEORGETOWN Residents are encouraged to recycle Christmas trees, boxes and wrapping paper to reduce material going to the landfill. If you recycle your tree, please remove the tree stand and any garland, ornaments, or lights.

Artificial trees cannot be recycled.

Curbside: Texas Disposal Systems customers in the city limits of Georgetown can put Christmas trees on the curb for collection on your regular yard trimmings pickup day. There is no restriction on the length of a tree for yard trimmings pickup. It can be placed at the curb un-cut.

All curbside-collected yard trimmings are brought to the City’s Collection Station and ground into mulch.

Boxes and Wrapping paper: Cardboard boxes and wrapping paper are recyclable. If they won’t fit in your recycling cart, you can put wrapping paper and boxes in a larger box and set it next to your recycling cart so it can be recycled.

Ribbons and bows are not recyclable. Cellophane wrap and plastic bags are recyclable if they are placed in a yellow bag-the-bag, tied, and placed inside the recycling cart. Note that no extra plastic bags next to your trash cart are permitted without a bag tag. Go to recycle.georgetown. org for a complete list of recyclables.

Christmas Tree Dropoff: From December 26 through January 31 at no charge, Christmas trees will be accepted at the City of Georgetown Collection Station. Normal fees will apply to other items brought to the Collection Station.

Mulch is available, year-round, free-of-charge to City residents at the Collection Station at 250 W.L. Walden Drive. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Collection Station will be closing at 12 p.m. on December 24 and will be closed on December 25 and January 1. For details, contact Texas Disposal Systems at (512) 930-1715.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY Waste Management and Williamson County offer free tree recycling at the Williamson County Landfill

Eat, Drink and Be Mayor-y

Mayor Dale Ross hosted a Holiday party for 400 of his closest friends; city and county VIPs, museum members and residents at the Old Courthouse December 20.

Pictured above: Vicki Jackimiec, Maryor Ross, Tracy Edmiston and Chip Edmiston. from Friday, December 26, 2014, through Saturday, January 10, 2015. Free tree recycling is particularly useful for residents who do not have curbside pickup.

The Williamson County Landfill also serves as a collection point for the Hutto Food Pantry, and residents are invited to donate non-perishable foods when they drop off their trees.

The Williamson County Landfill provides the mulch to Williamson County residents at no charge.

The Center is located at 600 Landfill Road, Hutto.

Regular hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon The landfill is closed on Sunday.

A

Fireworks Use Not Allowed The Georgetown Fire Department reminds residents that City of Georgetown ordinances prohibit the use of fireworks in the city limits of Georgetown or within 5,000 feet of city limits.

Use of fireworks could result in fines up to $2,000.

Areas within 5,000 feet of the city limits include, but are not limited to, the neighborhoods of Cedar Hollow, Crystal Knoll, Escalera, Fountainwood, Indian Creek, Logan Ranch Road, Lost Rivers, Oak Crest, Olde Oak Estates, Serenada, Shady Oaks, Turtle Bend, Woodland Park, and areas along D.B Wood Road.

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P.O. Box 213 • Jarrell, TX 76537 • (512) 746-4545

a publication of Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC Publisher: Mike Payne • Editor: Cathy Payne

Copyright © 2014 Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC- All Rights Reserved

Contributing Writers: Jeff Binney Wine Corner Dave Schumacher Points of View Freelance Correspondents Ann Marie Ludlow Greta Bauer Atticus Jackson Deborah Marquis Address of Record: 181 Town Center Blvd.

Suite 500 Jarrell, Texas 76537 512-746-4545 info@GeorgetownAdvocate.com

First Class Mail Subscriptions: $32.00 / 26 issues Georgetown Advocate P.O. Box 213 Jarrell, TX 76537

To see a map of the area where fireworks are prohibited, go to files.georgetown. org/fireworks-ban-map.

To report unauthorized use of fireworks in city limits, call the Georgetown PD at (512) 930-3510.

Correction

In our report on the Crispin Robledo trial the Dec 16 issue of the Advocate we mistakenly described the victim as having been pregnant when she was assaulted June 29. She gave birth one month prior to that incident and her son was a newborn.

The victim’s stepmother, a witness for the State, was pregnant in June 2013.

In our coverage for State v.

Roe, we misidentified ADA Danny Smith.

The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the Georgetown Advocate, administration, staff or contributing writers. The views expressed in all letters to the editor and signed opinion articles are those of their authors.

All letters to the editor must include a name, address and phone number for verification. Anonymous and unverified letters to the editor will not be printed. The Georgetown Advocate reserves the right to edit letters for length and journalistic style, and has a recommended length of 300 words.

2013 Best of Texas General Excellence

2012 Media Honor Roll

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8 KJV

THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

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2014 - A LOOK BACK: JUSTICE / LAW ENFORCEMENT Schwertner Bank Robbery Suspect in Custody February 23

made sure that it was done correctly because it was for $1 million. I can promise you in any other county it would not have been that high and there wouldn’t have been as much due diligence as we’ve had here.”

UPDATE: Gamboa’s current trial date is March 2 in the 26th District Court.

Cold Case Verdicts for Jana Duty June 18 On February 14, the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Jesse Gamboa, who robbed the Schwertner State Bank last Halloween. Capt Fred Thomas was joined

by Capt. Pete Huey, bank Chair Jim Schwertner, Texas Ranger Matt Lindemann, WilCo Detective Rick de la Vega, D.A. Jana Duty, and Sheriff Wilson to share congratulations on a job well done and some details about the investigation.

The big break came as a result of a website created by a local FBI agent. The domain was designed to be virtual bait. As it turned out, the site had only one visitor, and he came back many times. As is often portrayed in movies and TV, criminals really do want to know if they’re being found out.

Investigators tracked the visitor and began looking into him. Thomas said, “they went back to shoeleather and surveillance; typical police work.”

As a result of their continued efforts, a State search warrant was executed by the detectives and the Rangers on a storage unit connected to Gamboa.

In the storage unit, in an unusual twist, officers found all $107,000 stolen from the Schwertner Bank despite months that had passed since the robbery. They also found the bag carried into the bank, firearms and another $39,000 in cash.

Approximately $100,000 worth of guitars, other musical equipment and jewelry was also recovered from the storage unit. The investigation is continuing to determine what else, if anything, may have been stolen.

Schwertner also commented, “This is the reason why people want to do business in Williamson County. Because Williamson is tough and fair on crime.” Schwertner continued, “I’d also like to point out we’ve got a brand new District Judge. When you have a new judge you always have to wonder if he or she will be tough on crime as well. But I can tell you Judge Stacey Mathews fit the bill. When she got the warrant, she signed it right away and also she

On December 14, 1991, by “unknown means and method,” Rex Nisbett caused the death of his wife Vicki and disposed of her. Because her body was never found, no previous Williamson County District Attorney found sufficient evidence to arrest and prosecute him. Jana Duty decided the Sheriff’s department had indeed done a diligent investigation and, as she told the jury, “Rex can have his secret, but he can not have his freedom.”

Shortly after taking office in 2012, Duty made it a personal mission to begin examining all of the cold cases in Williamson County. She began with the oldest case, which made headlines across the country last year when she helped bring James Wolcott’s new identity into the public eye.

In 2014, she prosecuted the nation’s first delayed strangulation murder, which after a May mistrial, is set for retrial. When Duty first looked at that case, the defendant Crispin Harmel was in jail for credit card fraud.

But, the first thing she saw in the file was an autopsy photo of Jessika Kalaher and asked the question, “Why was there no murder charge?”

Duty and ADA Mark Brunner successfully tried WilCo’s first murder case without a body.

“The goal from the very beginning,” Duty said, “for me and the family was to get Vicki back and we were willing to be very ‘reasonable’ in our plea bargain offer because we just wanted her back. They’ve never really said goodbye or put her to rest. There will always be a disappointment that we couldn’t get that done.”

Duty says personally the victory bolsters her confidence to continue to pursue cold cases. “Justice delayed was justice denied. I’m happy the family finally had

their day in court and they are no longer being denied justice for Vicki!”

UPDATE: Crispin Harmel re-trial set for April 6, 2015 in the 368th District Court.

Cold/Capital Case Closed

November 4 Mildred McKinney was 73 years old in 1980, and was planning to live out her golden years near her children and grandchildren in Williamson County. Her plans were ended in a very brutal manner by Steven Thomas, a pest control worker who had noticed the nice things in her home. He returned later, in the middle of the night, to rob her and viciously violated and murdered her.

McKinney’s death was unsolved until 2012 when the District Attorney’s office learned the DNA evidence had gotten a hit.

Williamson County Assistant District Attorney and lead Prosecutor Lytza Rojas began working the case.

Rojas explained a case like this comes along once in a career. She mentioned all three prosecutors, Rojas, ADA Josh Reno and ADA Lauren McLeod have all worked capital cases before but this is the first in which they got the death penalty.

Despite their success, “There are no celebrations.

Nothing in a capital case is taken lightly,” she says, “And no one ever wins. It is something the law allows, and the way the law is framed ensures only a small percentage of people are even eligible.”

Constable 3 Compassionate Option

There are a lot of people who find themselves the subject of an arrest warrant because they received a citation but did not have the money to pay the fines and fees. The majority and large percentage of the total cost is all added after the court assesses the penalty. There are myriad fees imposed by the state, all of which can drive the cost of a citation into the hundreds of dollars.

Precinct 3 Constable Kevin Stofle recognized that many people don’t have an extra $700-900 to pay the penalties and fees for traffic violations, expired tags, or driving without insurance, to name a few. If a driver accumulates two or more, that can add up to a lot of money but there is no option other than to pay it, or the Justice of the Peace will issue a warrant for arrest. Drivers who have not appeared to pay for a speeding ticket are not violent criminals and yet they must live with the fear that they could be arrested and put in jail at any moment. The situation creates risk for the driver, his or her passengers, and creates a huge burden of stress.

Stofle wants people to know, “My office has compassion for citizens, especially those who aren’t criminal but are rather just people who got themselves in a bad circumstance. I looked at all of the legal requirements and came up with a plan that basically gives people a second chance before arrest.”

Previously, legally, once

not have to serve warrants

Judge Bill Gravell and Constable Kevin Stofle an arrest warrant was issued, the offender can no longer simply pay the fines and walk away; the arrest must be made. Now, those with violations have the option to apply for a payment plan, which in essence obligates them to plead guilty or no contest, pay regular installments on their fines and if they are accepted into the program, the Justice of the Peace will recall the warrant so there will be no accompanying criminal record.

The Constable’s office will also make an effort to contact an offender to let him or her know that the warrant has been issued and discuss the payment plan. Says Stofle, “I speak to people like the single mom with seven children.

She would love to take care of her fines but she is busy working several jobs or taking care of her kids, so she doesn’t have a spare $700 or a day to spend in court.

She is the perfect example of our plan participants.”

The program is a win-win for everyone. The citizen no longer has a warrant over his or her head and the county receives the revenue. It also lessens the burden on the sheriff’s department, which does

or fill the jails with nonviolent offenders.

Another benefit of the program that is specific to Precinct 3 is that the area includes the largest stretch of I-35 of any precinct.

Many people receiving citations in the area are not Williamson County residents and there is no budget to track down travelers from Dallas to Michigan.

The ability to pay over time from a distance will again mean revenue rather than cost, and travelers don’t have to worry about being pulled over and arrested on their next trip through Central Texas. If out-oftowners do not pay their fines, they will be unable to renew their driver’s license so the incentive to send the money back to Precinct 3 is always there.

There are only two rules to the program; the total fines must be paid off within one calendar year and the minimum monthly payment is $25.00. The program goal and promise is to collect money due the county but at the same time give consideration and other options to people who truly want to meet their obligations but are struggling to get by.

If you or a loved one was seriously hurt because

of someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, wrongful death, and/or other damages.

Rojas says Thomas was “violent, unpleasant and unchecked. He had the gift of gab and had talked his way out of trouble for really violent things in Williamson and Dallas.”

Thomas was arrested in 2012 for trafficking drugs, a federal crime, which mandated a DNA sample.

Initially he was cooperating with the DEA but when he stopped helping with their investigation, they prosecuted him and his DNA popped shortly after.

“Thomas was a dangerous man and a bully who wasn’t ever going to stop, so what we do protects the community. It was a unique experience for me as a prosecutor; finding the whole truth and giving the ‘tools’ of that knowledge to a jury.

I’m glad to do my part.”

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

2014 - A LOOK BACK: WILLIAMSON COUNTY

service and Teen Court jury duty, and no permanent record. This is a blessing because that record can keep kids from getting scholarships or even being accepted into college.”

When kids see everything in life and maturity is about personal choices and responsibility, they can begin to make the right choices and eventually give back.

M ARCH J AN U A RY

Teen Court

Williamson County Precinct 3 Justice Court began training for “teen court” earlier this month and the program is already showing great promise with an emergent group of teens and volunteers.

The Williamson County program is the brainchild of Juvenile Case Manager Stacey Warner, under the direction of Justice of the Peace Bill Gravell, and they heard their first real case on February 18, 2014.

Teen Court is a program in which young adults sentence their peers for Class C misdemeanors, and the goal is to provide an opportunity for volunteers and defendants to have a positive impact on the community.

All Teen Court participants play a role in the courtroom and rotate to experience all facets of the process; jury members, bailiffs, attorneys and court clerks. The only exclusive positions are the defendant; an actual offender who has already pled guilty or “no

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contest” to charges; and the presiding judge, which is reserved—due to the honor and authority—for seniors.

All court sessions are monitored by professionals, but the kids do all the work.

The system of rotation has also led to a few discoveries. One was from a student whose turn it was to be bailiff. He was shy but upon being directed in the nature of the bailiff’s job, he assumed the character with a straight back and booming voice. Warner says many don’t realize they have it until someone expects it from them.

Interest in the program is picking up in the defendant group as well. Several young people have called to come to teen court for sentencing. “The beauty of the program,” Warner says, “is that when a kid goes to court, even if he or she receives deferred adjudication, the incident is still going to be on their record.

Teen court provides options for the penalty phase, which includes sentences according to a grid of community

Reagan Blvd.

Phase IV Complete

Ronald W. Reagan Blvd.

North now connects State Highway 195 to County Road 237, representing the official close of Phase IV construction and direct access to IH-35 at Exit 271.

The 6.2-mile section includes a four-lane divided highway section with drainage culverts, asphalt pavement, and signage; all made possible via the Williamson Road Bond Program, contractor Ranger Excavating and 25 acres of donated land for the right-of-ways.

It represents a western alternative to IH-35 and will relieve mobility issues in Precincts 1 and 3.

Williamson County Commissioner (Pct. 3) Valerie Covey remarked “What people must have thought when a line was drawn on a map in the middle of nowhere. What people need to realize is that this county has just passed the 500,000 mark. If the previous court had not done what they said

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they would do, we would be buying houses without roads. Planning, vision, and implementation is what is was about.”

Begun by the previous commissoners’ court, the road now connects SR 1431 to Jarrell in six pieces at a total cost of about $68 million.

JU N E

Heroes Night Out

There’s a small building in Cedar Park with a story similar to some of the Veterans it now serves.

It was put to good use and everyone appreciated it.

When it wasn’t needed, it wasn’t tended to as much and eventually fell into disrepair. But along came some people who cared for it, saw the beauty underneath, and took the time to love it up a little. Soon it

and eventually they built themselves a network of support with the mission to foster greater understanding of veteran experiences and to help veterans help themselves—up to 1200 visitors per month.

Volunteer Paul Pro says “This is a place for peer support. No one wants to come in and talk about war stories and no one wants to hear them. People come here to link to a community of peers and express how their past experience is impacting them now.”

The building has a computer room, a playroom for kids, a full kitchen, a barbecue out back with picnic tables, a gazebo and a walking trail. They have a schedule of donuts and coffee, pizza night, and monthly dinners for families, including a professional magic show.

Pro says 100 percent of

Heroes’ Night Out Founders Wes and Judy Pierce

was back to its former glory and a shiny happy place for people to go.

This is the place for Heroes Night Out, a gathering and resource center for Veterans and families of all ages and service.

Founded by Wes and Judy Pierce, it started out as a helpful gift for families who were visiting Fisher House in San Antonio; a comfort home for families to stay in while a service person is undergoing medical treatment. The Pierces purchased kid-friendly gift cards for parents so they could have a night away from the House and enjoy some down time. Today, Heroes Night Out is orders of magnitude more than just a night out. It first grew into donations from partners

the veterans who come in are personally greeted and many don’t realize this is the place to see the doctor.

“It’s not what they’re used to; there is not, nor will there ever be, a waiting room here.”

Heroes Night Out has no sign in sheet, no application, and no expectations.

Just walk in and be at home. Everyone works to mitigate misconceptions about returning vets; every veteran—with or without PTSD—just wants to trust and be trusted.

Pro wants people to know Heroes is different. They are a safety net for those who can’t get fast help from the VA. As well, the peer engagement lets them know they are not alone.

Pro says, “In a nutshell, we exist totally for the next veteran who walks through the door. When someone comes in we show them where everything is and we direct them have a seat.

Then they start talking.

Maybe the second time they come in they might open up a bit and say, ‘Maybe I need help with this.’ We are vets helping vets any way we can.”

THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

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2014 - A LOOK BACK: GEORGETOWN

M AR C H

Common Sense Finally Prevails Friendly Will v. HARC

The Georgetown Historic

and Architecture Review Commission denied an application to tear down the Friendly Will Baptist Church, a historic building at 706 W. 14th Street, stating that the applicant had not met the criteria to justify demolition. According to the application, the congregation of the Friendly Will Baptist Church, originally built in 1945, has not only outgrown the facility but they are also subject to several threats to health and public safety. Church members have been raising and contributing money for years already and decided

on a plan to build a newer, modern church on the same site. Jimmy Jacobs Construction donated architectural plans for the new building.

Demolition was recommended by the City of Georgetown based on two of the five criteria of the HARC bylaws; having no economically compatible use for the building (other

than as a church), and an imminent threat to public safety.

UPDATE: After appeal, Council approved the demolition in April.

Friendly Will is building a modern building using the old church’s cornerstone and stones from the façade.

Council discussed suspending HARC action pending procedural reviews.

Dale Ross Victorious

...wins Sun City

In a spirited and engaged

mayoral election, Dale Ross garnered 55 percent of the total vote, carrying 11 out the 15 precincts in Georgetown, including two of the three located in Sun City.

He also dominated east of IH-35, winning four of the five precincts there by more than 64 percent of the vote, and winning the other with 57 percent.

Ross emphasizes that his campaign hinged on understanding the interests of the entire city, saying, “from day one of the campaign, my wife Mickie and I went on a listening tour through all parts of Georgetown to

learn what issues citizens felt were most important.

Our campaign was a citywide campaign and we did not just focus on one sector of the city.”

With regard to the election itself, Ross adds, “I would like to thank Marlene McMichael for running a positive campaign that focused on the issues and qualifications rather than the negative, partisan politics we so often see. “ Ross was sworn in by Judge Billy Ray Stubblefield on May 20.

New G’town ISD Leadership

NO V EM B E R

Brandenburg Gone: Unanimous 7-0 Vote During a special City Council meeting on November 3, Georgetown City Manager Paul Brandenburg tendered his resignation, effective immediately. His announcement came during executive session, and the terms of the agreement of his departure were not publicly disclosed at that time. The council agreed to

MAY

accept his resignation in a 7-0 vote.

Brandenburg has been serving as City Manager of Georgetown since 2002, an extended tenure in a position that statistically lasts about half that time.

Jim Briggs, General Manager of Utilities will assume the position of Interim City Manager until

a replacement is selected by vote of the City Council.

Briggs says he will not apply for the permanent position, and will return to the Utility Department when a replacement for Brandenburg is hired.

Mayor Dale Ross commented that a nationwide search for a new city manager will soon begin.

JUNE— The Georgetown ISD Board of Trustees welcomed Dr. Fred Brent, the newly selected Superintendent.

Dr. Brent’s previous position was Superintendent of Alvin ISD, the second largest school district southeast of Houston where he presided over 23 campuses and more than 19,700 students.

“I think it will be a great advantage coming from Alvin to Georgetown just

for the fact that in Alvin we were also such a fastgrowth district. Obviously, with the I-35 corridor we’re going to continue to get growth in Georgetown.”

Dr. Brent said of his family’s arrival in Georgetown, “It’s been an incredible experience…It’s just a great, warm feeling and everyone has said that this is a great town. When people are coming up to you and saying, ‘Welcome to our Georgetown family,’ it means a lot.”

JULY— New Athletic Director Todd York has come full circle in his career. He began his career in sports 29 years ago right here at Georgetown High School under Coach Andy Griffin and now that he’s back, he hopes to retire here too.

He said he didn’t accept the job immediately. He waited a few seconds; maybe five, and it’s been a happy blur ever since.

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

2014 - A LOOK BACK: JARRELL

J AN U A RY

JULY

Renovation and Remembrance

JISD Superintendent Dr.

Jarrell Community Center

The Jarrell Memorial Park

and Community Center completed a functional and beautiful renovation.

As time goes by, the kids who play and compete on the diamond at the park are less likely to be old enough to remember Larry, Joan, twins Paul and John, and Audrey Igo. But if not for the legacy of the car lover, the teacher, and the kids’ love of music and silliness, these fields might still open and muddy.

The Igo family was

tragically lost in the E5 tornado that struck Jarrell on May 27, 1997. As the community recovered and renewed, a committee of Jarrell citizens formed to discuss some of the things they could do to improve the situation in the town.

The surviving Igo family, headed by father/grandfather Louis Igo; and Joan’s family, the Tophams, got together and met with city leaders to help. When the tornado took the Igo’s home, it left nearly seven acres of open land, and the

two families agreed to donate the property if the city came up with funding to build a meeting place and a playground.

Nearly two decades later, the resulting Community Center has been modernized and polished and is ready for business. With a newly painted cement floor, upgrades throughout, and structural improvements like foam insulation and new HVAC, the building can accommodate up to 300 people and catering.

FEB R U A RY

Jarrell Welcomes First Full-Time Fire Chief As the I-35 corridor in

central Texas continues to grow exponentially, Emergency Services District #5 (ESD 5) which serves the 135 square mile in northern Williamson County in and around Jarrell is taking steps to ensure that residents and business are kept safe. On February 17, the ESD 5 Board unanimously

elected veteran firefighter and resident Mark McAdams to be the first full-time paid Fire Chief in Jarrell’s history.

McAdams’s resume boasts more than 28 years in various aspects of firefighting, including 22 years with the Austin Fire Department, a term as Assistant Chief of Williamson

J UN E

John G. Warden 1955-2014

John Glover Warden, 59, went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 28, 2014.

In 1994 John was called into the ministry and started Grace Baptist Church of Salado with 18 members.

He served as pastor of Grace for 14 years where he saw God’s tremendous work in growing the church. Feeling the call to plant a church in his home-

town of Jarrell, John started New Hope Baptist Church (lovingly known in the community as “The Barn Church”) where he served for the past 6 years.

John touched many lives throughout Williamson and Bell Counties with his ministry, which included volunteer chaplaincy at St. David’s Georgetown Hospital. John enjoyed working with his hands, which was evident in his participation in the building of two churches and maintaining the church property. He had a heart full of care and concern for the hurting.

Most of all, he had a passion to share his love for his Lord and Savior to anyone who would listen (and lovingly prayed for those who wouldn’t).

County Hazmat, and a stint as Chief of Liberty Hill Fire Department. Additionally, McAdams holds Advanced Firefighter, Instructor 3 and Advanced Inspector certifications, and he is certified in various aspects of Homeland Security.

McAdams officially took the reins of JVFD on February 24, 2014.

John’s faithful walk with God and his joyful spirit will be truly missed, but he

Newest Jarrell Schoolhouse Bill Chapman officially opened Jarrell’s newest edifice of education with a ribbon cutting and open house July 28.

The ceremony was attended by elected officials, educators, and students excited about the new building that is, in one student’s words, “Classy!”

“The building is set up for us to move into ProjectBased Learning (PBL), which we started last year in 7th grade and we are

expanding that to 6th and 8th grade.” The classrooms are all designed and laid out to support the curriculum and collaboration for each; e.g., modular desks can be arranged in circles for literature discussion or in-line for math demonstration. “Classrooms can change daily,” explains principal Abbe Lester, “for whatever the recipe of the day calls for.”

Lester says the community has an open invitation to volunteer and help in the school. It’s not just for

OCTOBER

A recent de-annexation agreement between the City of Jarrell and the Sonterra MUD led to confusion when some local residents inaccurately concluded that Sonterra had been annexed into the City of Jarrell. In reality, the two governing bodies joined forces to solve a problem, and each walked away with a win.

What actually transpired, according to Jarrell MayorElect Larry Bush, was a plan that would de-annex an undeveloped portion of land under the authority of Jarrell, transferring responsibility and taxing rights to it from the City of Jarrell, and giving Sonterra taxing authority. In layman’s terms, this means Sonterra would say to all “You can see me again someday!”

will receive all property taxes generated on that property. In return, the City of Jarrell will now receive the 2% sales tax from businesses located on the west side of IH-35 which previously would have gone to the Sonterra coffers.

In addition, the residential development on Meadow Valley Loop, which has had no city sewer up until now, will be linked to Sonterra’s sewer system as part of this agreement, a $750,000 benefit to the City of Jarrell. There will be a four year waiting period prior to the start of the project to permit funds

Seeds of Strength (Hope Builder sponsor), contributed $10,000 towards the project; Christ Lutheran Church, with matching funds from Thrivent Financial, donated $3,100; State Farm (Hammer & Nail Circle sponsor) gave $2,500 in cash and Eagle Bank of Jarrell donated $653 through their 2x4 Stud Campaign. $52,086 in cash and in-kind services was also donated from individuals and local businesses needed to complete this construction project.

to accumulate.

“At the end of the day,” Bush continues, “this agreement will be revenue neutral for both parties, but it has allowed Sonterra the ability to gain the borrowing power it required to move forward with development.”

The property involved in this agreement is a yet undeveloped parcel that lies to the north of Monica’s Czech Bakery and the MUD office on the east side of IH-35. The agreement does not affect any residential property.

N OVEM B ER

Fond Farewell To Mayor Dewey Hulme

Habitat for Humanity Dedicates First Home

in the making, Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County (HFHWC) celebrated the dedication of Habitat’s first single-family home in Jarrell on October 19, 2014. The Habitat partner family for this home is Sherri Parsons, a single mother and nurse with the Round Rock School District, and her ten year old son. The Parson home was destroyed by fire in 2013.

This home project has been made possible through financial partnership with the following businesses and organizations:

parents! Anyone can bring their skills or time to the table and help with administration, events or just to be an audience.

Jarrell and Sonterra Agree on De-annexation

OCTOBER

After two and a half years

Principal Abbe Lester

D

ewey Hulme is a quintessential Texan; a man of few words, but when he says them, they are considered.

One of the most important messages he leaves with future leaders of Jarrell would be to consider the impact of regionalism. “It’s not just what benefits the city of Jarrell, but what benefits people in surrounding areas; be-

cause what helps us may also benefit others, and what benefits others may also help us,” he exhorts.

Hulme says he often contemplates what has been most exciting about being the Mayor of Jarrell. “There are few people in this world who have the opportunity to help build a city. Most cities were established long ago. With Jarrell’s incorporation in 2001, we had to start from scratch.

I’d like to thank each and every one who played a part in this on-going journey. I will pray for you as you seek to take Jarrell into the future that it will continue to be a shining star among cities in Texas.”

THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

2014 - A LOOK BACK: PHILANTHROPY / CAUSES

What’s Donated in G’town Stays in G’town

The Assistance League (AL) Georgetown Area moved its Thrift Shop to a larger and more visible location.

This is the third move due to the growth and success of this local organization that operates 100 percent on volunteer efforts. The group also held its annual “Bells, Books and Brunch” fundraiser February 24 at the Sun City Ballroom (2 Texas Drive) in Georgetown.

AL Georgetown is a chapter of the national non-profit agency that, unlike most national charities, focuses on local chapter needs first.

Assistance League helps volunteers realize individual visions for their communities and all funds they raise stay local.

AL’s premier charity is the Ring the Bell Project, which provides funds for school children to purchase school clothing at the start of every new term. For the 2013-14 school year, AL Georgetown donated over $98,000, which helped more than 1200 children in the Georgetown, Jarrell and Florence School Districts.

Each child receives $75.00 in store credit at a local Walmart, where they shop with parents and go through special checkouts.

The 2014 Bells, Books and Brunch was the third annual event and volunteers Linda Berriman and Pat Holloway sold all 400 seats. The program included a silent auction, fashion show and bake sale, but the big draw is the guest list.

Multi-genre author Dorothy Featherling, Cynthia & James Ignizio (pen name C.A. James) and Texas historian Jeffrey Kerr spoke about their respective literary works.

The group is always looking for new members and new support and all are welcome to donate clothing or dollars to go back into the community. Holloway says,

“The easiest way to help out is to come see us at our new location.” The Thrift Store, located on N Austin Avenue in the Dollar Tree shopping center. They carry adult clothing, computers, housewares, shoes and furniture, and they also have a boutique section for upscale textiles. What they don’t sell is donated again to the Shriners for burn patient funding and also shared in bulk with organizations that benefit unwed mothers.

UPDATE: This year’s Bells, Books and Brunch fundraiser will be March 9, 2015 in the Sun City Ballroom. visit www.algeorgetownarea.org

MA R C H

15 Years of R.O.C.K.

The Ride On Center for Kids, one of our nationallyknown jewels celebrated its 15th anniversary in grand style. The “True Grit” barn dance included a sold-out crowd, an A-list entertainer, and a fundraising total over $340,000.

President Nancy Krenek spoke at length about the theme, “Lifting Up” during her address. She asked attendees to lift up their arms to donate to the program to purchase four additional therapy horses, supplement tuition for families in need, and purchase another fan for the training arena. Generous patrons gave nearly $50,000 in less than five minutes.

Other money was raised through the silent and live auctions and Charles Avery personally pledged to match $100,000 in donations to purchase additional land for R.O.C.K. expansion.

Krenek shared R.O.C.K.’s success by the numbers: 15 years of miracles, building expansion that cost just

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35 percent of the estimate thanks to donated time and materials; 60,000 service hours by an average of 300 weekly volunteers, and over 266,000 miles walked.

Auctioneer Steve Lockhoff summed up the evening’s triumph; “This is Williamson County and this is just how we roll!”

UPDATE: This year’s R.O.C.K. Barn Dance will be March 28 featuring Gary P. Nunn. Visit rockride.org

JUNE

Growth, Largess Mean BiG Success

The BiG program is exceeding all expectations in its community of special needs adults, which according to Director Erin Kiltz, has become the fastest growing segment of our population. “With the increase in Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses, we will see a corresponding increase in the need for vocational and life skills training in our adult population.” She says thanks to a great deal of community support, BiG will be able to meet that needs for more and more citizens as time goes by.

In 2014, BiG grew its membership to 25 citizens with the help of a $20,000 grant from the Seeds of Strength giving circle and $10,000 from Leading Ladies to build a greenhouse and build their horticulture enterprise. BiG is also working with Week of Hope high school volunteers from all over the country to build raised bed gardens for BiG citizens.

Other business endeavors include partnering with Whole Foods, Hat Creek Burgers and The Exchange, which will all begin carrying and selling BiG products, and the proceeds will be donated back to BiG. All of this commerce has

also enabled them to move into new shop space at 202 South Austin Avenue. The renovated building has doubled their workspace and triple their sales.

BiG has also grown socially. This year they escorted over 125 people to tour the Brookwood Community, and produced and performed their first play, “The Wizard of BiG” directed by Audrey Hamilin.

The mission of BiG is to provide an educational environment that provides meaningful jobs, builds a sense of belonging and validates dignity and respect for adults with intellectual disabilities. Their goal is to build a vocational and residential community where the citizens with special needs will continue to learn, work and live; while being celebrated and empowered in a God-centered environment where they can engage in meaningful work and service. The work helps these individuals to not just survive, but thrive.

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

J AN UA RY

Minuteman Press Receives Proclamation

State Representative Dr. Marsha Farney joined the owners and staff of Minuteman Press of Georgetown to read and present a proclamation from the State honoring the success and growth of the company.

Among the accolades were Minuteman’s Top Earner Award and invitation to the President’s million dollar circle (topping $1M in retail sales) from their national franchise, and celebrating the personal service provided by owners Ty and Crystal Gipson since the business opened in 2006. The Gipsons were personally recognized for having given their time and resources to support local organizations such as the Lion’s Club of Georgetown and the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance.

2014 - A LOOK BACK: BUSINESS

The proclamation also lauded their contributions to the overall well being of the citizens of Texas by employing its citizens and contributing to the local community, which in turn creates economic vitality.

A P R IL

Georgetown Firm a Good Fit For Judge Burt Carnes J

udge Burt Carnes was appointed in 1989 by Governor Bill Clements to be the first judge in the Texas District 368 Court. Although it was never his plan or his goal to be a politician, he was quite popular with the voting public and was re-elected six times in just over 24 years. He retired from the bench October 31, 2013.

As a retired judge, he says he always had it in his

mind to do something else; “I wasn’t ready to stay at home, only to take a few months to decompress and enjoy ‘retirement’.” Just six months later, Carnes is ready to begin his fourth career as a lawyer providing mediation and arbitration with Sneed, Vine & Perry, PC, and says he is looking forward to it.

Carnes is also maintaining his senior judge status in order to return to the bench, when asked, as a visiting judge. He looks forward to being a judge once in a while because, he says, he misses seeing coworkers and even lawyers. “I still love a good trial,” Carnes says, “with good lawyers who are well-prepared.

Everyone loves the visiting judge and I get to do the good part without worrying about dockets and paperwork.”

Firm associate Josh Schroeder is very pleased to have Judge Carnes join the team. “His practice will be successful,” Schroeder says, “because he has seen so many different types of law in his career. The weight of a judge’s experience will go a long way to client confidence.”

As a mediator, Judge Carnes will review cases that are filed or pending with lawyers involved. His job will be to facilitate a settlement between the parties and if they cannot agree they go into court. With ar-

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The benefits of both are in the time and money saved by not taking hours or days in court to have attorneys argue the facts.

As a former judge, he is also a valuable resource to attorneys who may become too involved with their own cases and can rely on his experience to help them recognize problems in their arguments.

Carnes says he is enjoying the benefits of a “retirement” job and having control of his calendar.

There are grandkids to visit and traveling to do so he is looking forward to scheduling work and down-time as he chooses. “It’s a great feeling,” he says, “and one of the big attractions of the job.”

Sneed, Vine & Perry PC is located at 1104 South Church St; SneedVine.com.

APRIL

The Bunker: Best To Be Ready For The Worst

It is always a plus for Texas when a new business has a successful start. The latest in Williamson County is “The Bunker” outdoor and

prepper supply store.

“Prepper” is a recently coined phrase, but owner Sharon Graffius Kuhlman insists that humans have been prepping since the beginning of time. Kuhlman’s family opened The Bunker in early March after saving their money for nearly a year (no loans).

She explains the prepper lifestyle is just preparing for the unexpected, which can be anything from a tornado to peak oil prices that disrupt the flow of our daily lives. We are fortunate that we live in a country with so many resources but, Kuhlman asks, “What would you do if we had a big storm and all of a sudden food stores were only accepting cash? Most homes have about three days’ worth of food stored at any given time. We just help people put together a simple “bug-

out bag” or home plan that will provide the basics for three days, which keeps you ahead of the pack.”

The Bunker provides guidance, books and classes on how to put together your basics and she says there are a lot of women learning the tricks. Kuhlman says women are naturals because they “prep” every time they leave the house; purses have any number of things women might need while they are out.

The Bunker is located on N. Hwy 183 just before Hwy 29,and they have all the critical pieces for your basic Prepper bug-out bag: Water, food, flashlight, waterproof matches, lifestraw water filter, emergency blanket, paracord (the “duct tape of camping”), shemagh scarves, knife, compass and a map.

THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

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2014 - A LOOK BACK: VETERANS

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students gently reached out their hands to thank the Veteran. Jim was wearing his black “World War II Veteran” ball cap while being pushed along in a wheelchair. The city was teeming with families and school kids in town for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. As Vets approached the grandiose entrance of the WWII Memorial they were treated like rock stars.

As we entered the gates of the monument I was struck by the simple grandeur.

Just like their generation.

So simple. Yet so magnificent. After the Memorial we made our way to the Lincoln Memorial; the path was crowded with tourists and joggers released from winter garrisons. The cherry blossoms were at their peak; the warmest day of the year brought many to the National Mall.

Jim reflected. A foxhole in Guadalcanal. A New Yorker named Feldstein frighteningly inquired of Jim, “How you doin?” “I’m OK.” Feldstein, “I’m scared I’m not gonna to make it.”

The New Yorker’s premonition was accurate. Feldstein was later killed in a mortar attack. Jim believed Feldstein knew he was going to die. He also believed that to survive the war you needed confidence. Jim was confident he’d make it. He had to grow up fast working through high school and leaving home at 17 to work in a factory.

Later at Arlington Cemetery, as we made the

by Honor Flight Guardian Brad Curlee (April 11)

Ted Kalenterides at Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington, VA curve up to the Tomb of the Unknowns the Veterans were quiet. We paused for photos under a Cherry Tree.

The blossoms were pink snowflakes as we posed.

Here and throughout the day people young and old from all over the world approached to thank the Veterans for their service.

The Veterans are at a loss for words when describing their Honor Flight. Difficult to describe seeing the Memorial built in their honor, meeting new friends on their flight to Washington and receiving standing ovations from total strangers.

Likewise, it is difficult for us to know of their

tremendous service and sacrifice. It is difficult for us to imagine those back home enduring national shortages, hard labor and meager pay. It was a terrifying time for the world. Our Veterans didn’t know if they could win the war. They didn’t know if they would survive to go home. They are the greatest generation.

I was thrilled to be a part of the incredible trip with the 60 Veterans and nearly 100 volunteer Guardians.

It was a gung ho effort by Honor Flight Austin and all its volunteers. I can’t imagine a more beautiful time to have been in Washington.

END- OF- YEAR U PD AT E

A Reunion Months (and Decades) in the Making December 14

M

embers of Honor Flight Austin #13 (see above) were joined by dozens of comrades in arms at a reunion of flights at CookWalden Funeral Home to share stories of the war and add stories of the Honor Flight to their repertoire.

Betty Schleder of Sun City is an honorary board member of Honor Flight Austin and a vital fund raiser and supporter of the program. She organized and emceed the event to give the veterans an opportunity to get together again and share memories at this alsowonderful time of the year.

Over 100 veterans and family members attended, as well as a few dozen guardians, including Williamson County Judges and Georgetown VIPs who participated in the April flight.

Schleder performed “Twas the Night Before Christmas” from memory

Above: New Honor Flight Austin Vice-Chair Mitch Fuller attended with his friend/inspiration RV Rhoads. Right: Betty Schleder plays trivia for prizes. and several veterans were introduced.

Navy Veteran Howard Konetchy recalled being stationed in Massachusetts at Christmas 1944 and shared fond memories of a number of Jewish sailors

and officers who volunteered for duty on Christmas to allow their Christian brothers to celebrate the season.

10

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

2014 - A LOOK BACK: PEOPLE

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Local Winner Leica Behrmann gets a hug from her proud dad.

M AR C H

GISD Chefs Compete in National Challenge

Twelve finalists competed

in the Georgetown ISD 4th Annual Kid’s Culinary Competition on Wednesday, March 19th in the East View High School Cafeteria. The elementary students donned their chef hats and aprons to prepare the winning recipe. This year, the focus was on “healthy sandwiches”.

Finalists were chosen, out of nearly 70 entries, by a panel of judges based on a recipe they submitted previously. Each of the winning chefs prepared a display plate and tasting portions for the panel of judges. The judges awarded certificates and medals in six categories: Originality—Miguel Ugarte and Sonia Hall, Healthy Attributes–Abigaill Hodgson and Maggie Nevelos, Easy Preparation– Mikayla Vinyard, KidFriendly–Caitlyn Collins and Abigail Burgess, Taste– Bernhardt Krause and Wade Kemp, and Plate Presentation–Meelena Spikes and Isabella Lamas.

The overall winner was Leica Behrmann, a 3rd grader from Mitchell Elementary for her Chicken Monster Sandwich. Leica gained a love of cooking from her Haitian grandmother, who promises to

teach her how to cook traditional meals and continue her success.

As the overall winner, Leica will go on to the Texas State Future Chefs competition, and she has the opportunity to compete nationally.

MAY

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Jarrell, Texas 76537

Champion in the 12-14 year old age group for Traditional Weapons Form. Even better, she is ranked third in the world (!) in her age group based on competitive points and win record.

Shero has been involved in Karate, Tai Kwon Do and Krav Maga for the past three years. She previously played a number of other sports; volleyball, softball and track, but decided to try martial arts after she went to a few of her younger brother’s classes. She took her first class as a birthday present and loved it right away. She progressed well and moved up to succeeding belts every two months.

When she reached the brown belt level she began assisting the instructors in class and is currently only four levels away from a black belt. On her ability Shero says, “I don’t feel like I’m a natural but I am athletic. I stay very engaged and work really hard at it.”

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academic studies.

The EAFK program is in its fourth year in Georgetown ISD and has expanded to over 1700 students. The goal is to motivats and teach them to become civil, service-oriented people during their most formative years.

OCTOBER

Pickleball Gaining Ground in Sun City

The fastest growing trend in Sun City is like Sun City itself—fast! The Pickleball Club has nearly doubled in size in the past year and is poised to continue its growth right in line with the upcoming residential expansion.

Pickleball, a combination of tennis, ping pong and badminton is played with two or four players, a Wiffle ball and modified rackets. According to Joan Pritchard, the wife of the game’s creator, the name is due to this melding of various games, which reminded her of a “pickle boat”, referring to the last boat open in Crew filled with the leftover rowers.

Joel Pritchard created the game in 1965 on a family vacation and it has exploded in the past five years into a national craze due to

its inclusion in the World Senior Games and places like Sun City that have facilitated and promoted the sport.

Sun City Club President Jack Warner says the courts are busy every day of the year, and he is hoping to expand the playing area again to accommodate their growing membership. At 78, he plays every day and is a three-time regional medal winner headed to the 2015 national tournament. He even medaled in younger age brackets

because he doesn’t have too many competitors. Sun City overall brought home 24 medals. “I used to play golf but it takes forever. If you have a lousy Pickle ball game, you play to 11 then start over. In golf, if you’re having a bad game, it lasts three or four hours.”

The club does have a membership and the national association website says it grows by 1000 members every month. But, in Sun City, everyone is welcome to show up and play any time.

Creating Reality From Vision Allie Shero is not your

typical 7th grader. She is not really typical anything, except that she likes her friends and, her dad says, she finds plenty of time for texting. A student at Zion Lutheran Academy, she is also a budding martial arts master. She recently qualified in all of her competitive categories and won the title of Texas State

Ford Elementary was host to Sir Cass and James, and Lady Heather in a series of tournament games to start the Early Action First Knight (EAFK) for the 2014 school year.

Hundreds of students and parents were treated to a demonstration of skill, bravery and horsemanship to inspire the children who have already begun the integration and practice of good character with their

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THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

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2014 - A LOOK BACK: PEOPLE APRIL

GISD PRACSTEM Students Present Middle School Design Six Georgetown ISD

New Georgetown Playscape

JULY

It’s Playtime Again

Hundreds of kids and former kids swarmed the new Playscape at the Georgetown Rec Center July 2.

After tearing through the paper loop ribbon constructed by Camp Goodwater, the vision and success of the “Where we’ve been and where we’re going” park was renewed.

Mayor Dale Ross expressed great thanks to the community, consultants from the 1993 volunteer corps, commercial builder GameTime, Assistant Parks Director Eric Nuner, and a dedicated construction team from the Parks and Recreation Department.

Special features include all-abilities access, which invisibly integrates access and features for children of all abilities; solar powered trash compactors to cut down on waste exposure and collection; and 24-hour security cameras.

The ‘Scape includes many parts of the original, but is also set in a component structure that will enable swift and efficient maintenance and repair.

The grand reopening was attended by City Council, elected officials, City Staff,

as well as Mr. Kendall Young, the artist who created the original historical panels, and Tom Swift, who was a tenacious coordinator during the 1993 build.

N O V E MB E R

Community Library Begins With A 4th Grader’s Vision & A Bank Account Last summer Jarrell 4th grader Haylie Warren wrote a letter to the City Council explaining that when school is out for the summer, it is difficult to find all those books she wants to read.

Her family “has to drive

to the public library, and some people in Jarrell don’t have cars. We need books to study or use our imagination. And it’s not just for kids; adults can enjoy reading and learning as well.”

On November 10, Haylie was joined by her family and a proud group of Williamson County officials and VIPs to officially open a checking account at the Schwertner State Bank for the Community Library of Northern Williamson County (search on Facebook).

After receiving generous donations from JISD, Schwertner Bank, Judge Bill Gravell, Representative Marsha Farney and Riders BBQ, Haylie’s library fund now has a grand total of $2000.

PRACSTEM students, presented their architectural plans and drawings for a new middle school concept to the Board of Trustees April 1. The Practicum in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is a new offering in Georgetown ISD. The practicum course was designed to give students supervised, practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills in engineering.

The course is being co-taught and supervised

by Huckabee Architecture

e m o H

and GISD Engineering Instructor Jennifer McMillin. Six high school seniors, four from East View High School and two from Georgetown High School, were invited to participate in this practicum course.

The goal for the course was to develop a schematic design for Georgetown ISD’s new middle school (#4).

The students spent the first month learning the rules and regulations for architecture, finding their strengths, and developing a stakeholders list to make sure key people from the Georgetown community were invited to participate in the program. The Practicum of STEM course has been a great opportunity for the six students as they prepare to graduate from high school with real world, hands-on engineering and

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The students are Nathan Hahn, Erich Hammer, Cody Powell, and Tyler Zreet from East View High School; Kaili Jensen and Nicholas Wellbrock from Georgetown High School.

The students, had many innovative ideas, including glass walls around the gymnasium to allow spectators to enjoy refreshments and still see the game. They incorporated several open common areas for student interaction and modern interpretations of a libraryas-media-center with a focus on technology as well as books; all with security and sustainability in mind to save money and personnel resources.

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

2014 - A LOOK BACK: FAITH

O C TO B E R

struction beginning in late spring and early summer.

The new facility which will include a main sanctuary which can seat 2,200 (with expansion capabilities up to 3,300), as well as a new children’s ministry wing with state-of-the-art teaching facilities and security features, is expected to be complete by Fall 2016.

Celebration Church: Faith Expanding Along I-35 P

astors Joe and Lori Champion both say they knew God had plans for them in Central Texas. The Louisiana natives were pastoring a church in Baton Rouge when they both (simultaneously, yet separately) heard a call from God that said, “It is Austin.”

Within four months the Champions sold their home, moved their three sons to Williamson County, and left the rest of the details up to God. On October 1, 2000, Celebration Church held its first service in the Round Rock Library with a congregation of 54. Between 2000 and 2004, the setting moved from the library to a hotel, and then to a strip center. Finally, in 2005, through what can only be described as divine provision, the church was able to buy 110 acres along IH-35 in Georgetown and build a 60,000 square foot permanent home.

Over the last 14 years, that faithful group of 54 has grown to over 3,000

JU N E members and 9,000 regular attendees.

October 1, after several years of planning, prayer and what Pastor Joe (as he is known to his congregation) describes as “intense negotiation” with city and county officials over development

regulations, Celebration Church held a ceremonial ground-breaking for a new entrance off Westinghouse Road, the first phase of their expansion plan which culminates in an 80,000 square foot campus at the top of the hill overlooking IH-35 on their property.

Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill 8626 FM 1105 • Jarrell 512-863-3020

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

www.holytrinityofcornhill.org

With over 600 members of the congregation, city and county officials, the Champions dedicated the project and all of its fruit to God, and thanked him for expanding their mission “to connect people to Christ, to the Church, and to their destiny.”

Unapologetically passionate about relating the Church’s message to the younger generation or those who may not feel comfortable in a traditional church environment, Pastor Joe parallels this approach to the advances in professional sports or technology.

“Jesus was always looking at his audience and looking for ways to communicate to a particular culture; whether it was to a farmer or fisherman, he spoke their language to communicate an ancient gospel. We are absolutely ancient and grounded in the Scriptures, but the method and the style is different today.”

Concerning the need to expand what some would consider an already large church, the Champions have a brief, but powerful, answer: “We are a church, not a clique.” They explain that their current facility is near (and sometimes beyond) capacity, and statistically, when a church reaches 65% of capacity, people stop coming. “The day we tell people NOT to come to Celebration Church because we don’t have room for them, we become a clique; when we start keeping people out, we have failed.”

Site work on the multimillion dollar expansion project is expected to begin in spring 2015, with con-

Catholic Community Cultivating Children’s Catechism Holy Trinity Catholic

Church is the best kept secret in Corn Hill,” according to Lucille D’Elia, parishioner and the director of religious education in this small family parish in Jarrell. D’Elia has been working with Holy Trinity for the past year. She created their Wednesday night Catholic Children’s Education (CCE) program, which this year boasts 77 students. “We’re a small group,” she says, “but I get to know every student, I know their families and get to know the kids’ strengths and weaknesses.” Some classes may only have two students, but she’ll hold class no matter what.

CCE provides classical education and a diocesan curriculum for kids Pre-K through Confirmation, which is usually around 10th grade.

D’Elia says of the church’s mission; “In this ever-changing world, we realize more every day how important it is for our children to know, trust and love God. That is why we strive to educate the children of our parish and community with the knowledge of our Catholic faith.” The teachers are all volunteers and include high school, elementary, and home school teachers. “All of them,” she says, “bring a different flavor to the classroom based on their experience and their background. It

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

trinityofcornhill.org.

Sunday Services

St. Joseph’s

Episcopal Church

helps maintain our traditions but embrace change and growth.”

Students begin every session with a mass, and then have an hour of instruction. Parents are invited to attend, she says, because they are the best teachers.

The church also sponsors two adaptive programs for students with special needs and they are incorporated into the classroom as much as possible. D’Elia has been an educator for over 30 years and feels every child is special. “Teaching religious education is not a job,” she says, “it’s a passion. Teaching about God and Jesus is the icing on the cake.”

D’Elia says; “We invite and welcome all children, whether members of our parish or not, into our CCE program so that we can introduce and foster a love for learning about our Lord and the Catholic Catechism.”

Classes are free, and parishioners pay only $25 for books and materials.

Holy Trinity has about 250 families and celebrated its 125th anniversary June 15th. D’Elia says she feels blessed to be in a parish full of traditional families and a history of being faith-filled.

Mass is a big part of the community and she feels they have strong family values as well. “That doesn’t guarantee mom and dad are together;” she says, “It just means someone is bringing the kids to church. We still have the same problems as anyone else but because we’re small, we are happy to give each member personal attention.” For more information about CCE, contact Lucille at 512-8633020 or visit http://holy-

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  DECEMBER 30, 2014

SHOP LOCAL

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DECEMBER 30, 2014  THE ADVOCATE

OPINION / COMMENTARY PUBLISHER’S FORUM

by Mike Payne

Don Quixote for President (Too Late, He Already Is)

Another year has come

and gone, and it’s time for me to write another editorial. I sat down and I wrote all about last year. Then I remembered what I tell my son: “You can’t do anything about what’s in the past.

You can, however affect your future.” So, as I have many times before, I posted that one to File 14 (not File 13). You see, I save my File 14 material - not that it will likely ever see the light of day or wind up in print anywhere, but I thought my kids might someday want to see what really made the old man tick, including the dozens (okay, hundreds) of articles and columns that have made my wife (and editor) say, “You can’t print that...”

Therefore, rather than rehashing last year, I have summarily solved most of the world’s most vexing problems in less than 600 words.

Whole Foods - if these people think they can run a store that is frequently dubbed “Whole Paycheck” on the premise that they are “earth friendly” they’re crazier than I thought (and

that’s pretty nutty) or more desperate. With HEB and most other major food markets stepping up their organic selections at half the price, if I were Whole Foods, I’d invest even more heavily in Austin. The left-wing hipsters who live there are the only hope they have to buy into that load of horse…

Harry Reid- I predict that in 2015 this little man will finally show the cracks in his veneer and don a faithfully reproduced Napoleon suit and declare Nevada for the King and Queen of France. He will also admit that he’s part of Area 51 and is from another planet.

This will, at last, explain some of his actions.

President Barack Obama - Like his counterpart Harry Reid, he will appear in the full dress regalia of Don Quixote, and will continue swinging at windmills as he continuously dodges the mandates of the United States Constitution. It took me until the recent midterm elections to actually realize that he won two elections because of a majority of voters who can’t tell you who the VicePresidential candidate was or name a single member of the Supreme Court, a couple of million burnout, long haired hippies, a few hundred thousand avowed communists, and 118 people who thought he really was going to bring positive change. Oh, and apparently a few million people who returned from the grave just to vote in this historic election.

Wendy Davis - Pardon me, but I can’t resist.

Wendy who? At the rate Wendy is turning Texas blue, I figure it’s going to

be about 4039.... You really showed us, Wendy.

Ray Rice - You never ever, never ever, never ever, never ever hit a girl.

Ferguson, Missouri – Exemplifies Forrest Gump’s favorite saying, “Stupid is as stupid does.” Lesson #1: Don’t rob stores. Lesson #2: Don’t walk down the middle of the street right after you do. Lesson #3: Don’t resist arrest. If the “protesters” won’t listen to the law of the land, a Grand Jury, then their only hope is a coup d’etat. I suspect, however, that the ones screaming, “Burn this b*tch down!” are also the ones who can’t name a single Supreme Court Justice, so I’ll bet you a twenty-spot that the definition of coup d’etat escapes them as well.

Bill DeBlasio - the spawn of two avowed communist parents. Now a far left socialist with blood on his hands from the NYPD cop killings who is trying to destroy all that Mayor Guiliani set about fixing in New York City. Who doesn’t like carriage rides anyway?

ISIS - Where’s Harry Truman when we need him?

Israel - the best friend the United States ever had, and the ONLY true ally America has in the Middle East, despite this administration’s attempts to destroy this alliance.

Hosni Mubarak - the old boy doesn’t look so bad right about now, does he?

Kim Jung Un - I would tell you what I really think about him, but we really need the internet to publish the paper.

With these gems of wisdom imparted, the only thing left to say is Happy New Year. Stay tuned.

14th Sergeant Major of the Army and Congressman John Carter at Sun City

A Win for Fort Hood Heroes Rep. John Carter (TX31)

DECEMBER 19—This week Congress passed the 2015 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by an overwhelming vote.

This act ensures the finest fighting force in the world is provided the means necessary to defend our great nation. This year’s NDAA also includes authorization to award the Purple Heart to service members who came under the cowardice attack at Fort Hood in 2009 by a radicalized terrorist in the guise of an Army officer.

This has been a long and hard-fought battle full of emotion and heated debate.

But, in the end, our greatest concern must, and always will be, the men and women who protect this great Nation.

In today’s fight against terrorists and extremists our brave men and women face attacks of all shapes and sizes. To deny rightful benefits to those who stand guard every day because the attack happened at home

and to misclassify it in favor of political correctness, is unthinkable. The enemy we face today is much different and far more sophisticated and cunning than the conventional forces we fought in years past.

The terrorists of today have the means through advancing social media and global communications to reach and inspire sympathizers with their brutal methods in ways that would have been impossible in the past.

A terrorist is a terrorist, whether on our soil or on the battlefields abroad.

I know there are those who oppose awarding these medals and benefits and feel they are unwarranted.

There is no question as to Nidal Hasan’s ties to international terrorism. The international link to terrorism was the driving force behind the awarding of the Purple Heart to service members who were killed and wounded in the Sept 11, 2001 attacks on the world

trade center and the pentagon. The battlefield of the 21st century has changed; we no longer see the clear lines and static opponents we have encountered in the past. Those service members who were killed or wounded in the lone-wolf terrorist attack at Ft. Hood while preparing to deploy are no less deserving than those deployed abroad.

The mere thought that this terrorist attack was classified as work place violence shows the ignorance and disconnect with the evolving threats that face our troops and the American people today.

In November, 2009, the President promised to take care of the victims of this unthinkable tragedy– for the past 5 years I have held his feet to the fire to honor the promises he made to our brave men and women. I am honored and humbled to have had the opportunity to sponsor bipartisan legislation and fight to ensure the men and women who came under attack will receive the honors they deserve.

I have the distinct honor of representing the men and women serving at the largest military base in the world – Ft. Hood, The Great Place. The struggle to ensure this long deserved and rightful recognition for the men, women, and families of those killed and injured has not been easy. This victory for our men and women was accomplished through the persistent will and dedication in a hard fought battle by family, friends, and the Texas delegation. There can be no greater calling than to serve those who protect our freedoms. With the passage of this bill we have righted a wrong by this Administration and protected those who protect us!

THE ADVOCATE  DECEMBER 30, 2014

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OPINION / COMMENTARY POINTS OF VIEW

by Dave Schumacher

Gearing Up For The Presidential Election The mid-term elections

are history. The Republicans beat the Democrats like a drum and now the race for the presidency begins. There’s a scenario that seems to have played out during every recent presidential election cycle, and I believe it will play out again this election cycle unless the Republican establishment changes their strategies.

Let’s look at the last two presidential elections and how the Republicans selected their candidates.

First, let me say that the leaders of the GOP have chosen their desired candidate already. They seem to base their pick on longevity, likability by the

main stream media, and the person “the Democrats fear the most.” The scenario I am referring to is the one in which the Democrats (and the leftist media) tell the public and the GOP who in the Republican Party they think will give them the toughest opposition. Unbelievably, the Republicans accept their suggestions hook, line and sinker. They actually seem to believe the Democrat party operatives are being helpful with their comments; that the Democrats genuinely want the Republicans to do well in the election, when in fact they are basically picking the adversary they can beat the easiest. They also listen to the media when it says that “the GOP needs a bigger tent”; in other words, offering a candidate that will appeal to the masses and won’t rock the boat in order to win the ‘independent vote’ in the presidential election. This model will never win the true Republican base because it lacks moral compass. You have to actually be who you say you are and stand for it. Our “big tent” needs to be strong, conservative principals, period!

John McCain was the left and the elitist Republican’s pick in 2008, and Mitt Romney was their

choice in 2012. How did we fare by listening to them? Not so good. Again, two picks suggested by the left who offered no strong conservative principals.

The unknown and sinister Barack Obama won both elections without winning the Independent vote; so much for that game plan.

The 2016 election is already taking shape. There is a lot of chatter going around about this campaign being a Bush-Clinton battle again: Jeb Bush versus Hillary Clinton. It appears to be following that same scenario. The New York Times has already said, “Jeb Bush will be the thorn in Hillary’s side…”

Actually, Jeb Bush is for amnesty. Jeb Bush is okay

with Obamacare. Jeb Bush is a progressive. Therefore, he cannot get the Republican base vote.

We cannot let the Republican elite pick our

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candidate for 2016. We, as Republicans, must work tirelessly to get a true conservative nominated to be our next President. If the Republican Party leaders

manage to get another moderate progressive person nominated, our only hope may be a third party this time around. Anything short of this is surrender.

Don’t Stay In The Gray!

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DECEMBER 30, 2014 ď‚Ť THE ADVOCATE

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