Sun City Insider September 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016

Beyond the Tarmac: Behind the Scenes At The Georgetown Airport Pg. 6

Sun City’s Ultimate Adventurer Pg. 13

Antiques, Classics & Hot Rods On The Square Pg. 16

Read the latest issue of City Insider online at CityInsiderTX.com

riding the highways & byways with the

Sun City Cycling Club Pg. 8

Working For You Fiscally Conservative • Led a measure to pay an additional $10M of debt in both budget years 2016 & 2017 saving taxpayers approximately $10M in interest • Worked to keep spending under control & voted to lower tax rate • AAA bond rating maintained saving your tax dollars

Safety • Worked to locate County EMS in Florence, Jarrell and Weir & increase coverage in other areas of the county • Supported competitive compensation for law enforcement retaining highly trained personnel • Continues to collaborate with various state and local entities to address mental health issues

Conservative Leadership • Supporting our Veterans & their families by addressing issues through Hero’s Night Out including housing & job search, Peer Mentoring and the Williamson County Veterans Treatment Court.

Infrastructure • Completed IH-35 northbound frontage roads • Completed Williams Dr. expansion from DB Wood/Shell Rd. to Ronald Regan Blvd.

• Completed safety improvements to SH 29 - adding deceleration lanes at Jack Nickalus, Park Place and Cedar Hollow • Completed safety improvements on FM 2243 - adding a deceleration lane at Escalera Pkwy • Completed CR 245 realignment at Williams Dr. • Partnered with TxDOT on the expansion of SH 195 • Underway on plans for SH 29 Bypass from FM 2243 to IH-35 • Underway on plans for intersection improvements at DB Woods at SH 29 • Underway on plans to expand and realign CR 111

“It is an honor to serve you as Williamson County Commissioner, Precinct 3, and I humbly ask for your vote and support on November 8.”

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What’s Your Legacy?

A Guide To Quality Living in Georgetown A local resource for residents of Sun City, Texas

By: Cathy Payne This month, one of my favorite articles was the interview with the staff of Cook-Walden who explained the newest trends in memorial services (Think Outside the Box: The Changing Landscape of Memorials – Page 12). When a member of our staff first mentioned the story, my initial reaction was 1. That sounds a little depressing; and 2. How interesting can it be...? The reality turned out to be far more encouraging and fascinating than I could have imagined; I absolutely love the idea of honoring loved ones in (possibly) unconventional ways that may be more fitting to their lives and personalities. But I love it the most because it reminds me of someone who is still very much alive—my husband, and that’s the real reason I’m sharing this story.

My husband is a businessman, a business owner, and the epitome of an entrepreneur, and as such, he often operates “outside the box”. In our 18 years of marriage, I have grown accustomed to talking business on the weekends, holidays, and in the evenings; it is a given that on vacation we will take a “detour” to visit a new store or business; and I always carry a notebook and pen to help him keep track of great ideas. Over the years, I’ve lost track of the number of times the newest, hottest product or trend has come to the marketplace causing my hubby to lament, “That was my idea…I thought of that years ago…”

It’s likely that he did, but after the fact, it’s a little hard to confirm—after all, who doesn’t wish they were the guy who thought of Amazon or 24hour gyms. This time however, I can say unequivocally that he did think of the unconventional memorial service first.

A few years ago as we were in the process of writing our wills and making sure those kinds of things were in order, we started discussing what we wanted in terms of a funeral someday. After a brief conversation about his favorite hymns, my husband got that look on his face—like he just had the best idea ever and I better get my pen and paper ready.

He then described a memorial service that included guys in gorilla suits playing Congo drums, and a rendition of the Hallelujah chorus preformed flash-mob style; I am reasonably sure he was just caught up in the throes of inspiration when he got to the part about the “Pop Goes The Weasel” tune playing as people filed by to pay their final respects…

The bottom line is that my husband is unique and creative, and full of life and fun, and anyone who knows him will appreciate that legacy.

So, for my husband, I’m putting it in writing—you did have this idea first, although I am glad there are those putting it into practice now. And for everyone else, when the time comes, I hope you can make it—I promise— it will be more fun than a barrel of monkeys!

Cover Photo By Robert Crane

© 2016 Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

4 6 8 12 13 16 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 28 29

CONTENTS Tee Off For Veterans Thought You’d Like to Know: Georgetown Airport Sun City Cycling Club Think Outside The Box: The Changing Landscape of Memorials Getting To Know Your Neighbors: Jack Birchall Georgetown Area Car Club Georgetown’s First Brewery Worth The Drive: Camp No Counselor Veteran Breakfast Mayor’s Update Council Conversations: Steve Fought Wisdom From The Rearview Mirror Health & Wellness The Bucket List Ask Your Lawyer

STAFF Managing Editor/Lifestyles: Cathy Payne Writers: Ann Marie Ludlow Design: Elysia Davis Guest Columnists: Mayor Dale Ross, Steve Fought, John Bickle, Sharon Patterson, Webster Russell and Dee Coffeen, Jack C. Long, MD

CONTACT US

Info@CityInsiderTX.com P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537 To Advertise in City Insider, call a sales exec at 512-746-4545 © Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC, 2016. All rights reserved.

Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook at City Insider for more news & pictures!

SEPTEMBER 2016 | 3

Tee Off for Veterans at Cowan Creek: October 28 Georgetown’s Ride On Center for Kids (R.O.C.K.) is sponsoring the 5th Annual Rider Cup Classic golf tournament to benefit the ROCK On Veterans program, and provide scholarships for hippotherapy and equine-assisted services for Veterans. The tournament is a shotgun start at 1pm on Friday, October 28 at Cowan Creek Golf Club.

In just the past year R.O.C.K. has provided services to more than 200 veterans and family members at no charge to them, thanks in part to generous donors throughout the year and the sponsors of the Rider Cup. Registration is open; individual golfers may play for $125 each or a foursome for $500. As well, sponsorships are available from $500 to $10,000, and, of course, anyone can donate whether you play golf or not.

R.O.C.K. has been serving veterans and their families for the past 11 years. The goal of this program is to improve the lives of servicemen and women who have suffered injury in the line of duty, helping them adjust physically and emotionally to post-war lives. The cost for veterans and service members to participate in the ROCK On Veterans programs are 100% covered through fundraising efforts and grants. Many veterans show marked improvement via the horse-human connection, and many report better overall quality of life. Nancy Krenek, founder and CEO, says “We have seen miracles of healing, as well as veterans who reconnect with their families in new ways, as well as feeling like the horses give them a purpose again.”

For more information on the Classic or to sign up, visit ROCKRide. org and click the registration link on their home page.

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National Night Out National Night Out is an annual event to support safe neighborhoods held in Georgetown this year on Tuesday, October 4. Block parties are being organized for 6 to 9 p.m. that evening.

Online registration for National Night Out block parties in Georgetown runs through September 27. Registering your block party provides the information to the Georgetown Police Department so that an officer or other City employees or officials can visit the event.

Last year there were 45 registered National Night Out events in Georgetown with an estimated 2,600 citizens participating. Georgetown Police Department officers as well as other local law enforcement officers, elected officials, Georgetown firefighters and EMS technicians, and other City employees attended block parties in Georgetown.

The Georgetown Police Department is holding a reception for hosts of NNO block parties at 6:30 p.m. on September 30 at the Public Safety Operations and Training Center, 3500 D.B Wood Road.

To register your National Night Out block party in Georgetown, go to pd.georgetown.org/programs-services on the City website. There is a link to an online form to register your block party.

Chief Wayne Nero and Sun City Residents at the 2015 National Night Out event

SEPTEMBER 2016 | 5

Georgetown Airport:

Beyond the Tarmac If you live near the airport, you may feel like there are always planes in the air over Georgetown. Lucky for us, you might be right. The Georgetown Municipal Airport opened for business November 11, 1945 and this year, the airport is on track for 90,000 operations (takeoff/landing = 2 operations); a 20 percent increase over last year. But our airport is much more than just airplanes. It is a tax base, revenue generator and job creator.

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GM Russ Volk has brought airport operations into the black in less than two years. A municiple airport, such as Georgetown’s is more than just airplanes; it is a tax base, revenue generator, job creator, and the first impression many people see of our city.

At 600-plus acres, it is Georgetown's largest city facility and houses 337 planes. It generates revenue via leases, fuel, lessons, rides and repair; and its aggregate businesses employ more than 200 people. All of this is managed by General Manager Russ Volk and his very dedicated staff of just eight people—five of whom are part-time. “The increase in traffic at our airport is right in line with the overall growth in Central Texas. In fact, I have a waiting list with 170 people on it waiting for a spot to park or tie-down their airplanes here.

Those pilots are leasing space in Taylor, Burnet and Llano, so our growth is their growth as well.”

The airport provides three types of leases; hangar rents, tie-downs and long-term land leases. Private individuals or companies are not permitted to own land on the airport, but they may lease it from the city for commercial purposes. “For instance,” Volk says, “I have room for new hangars to accommodate more planes. If a private citizen or company wants to build me one, they

lease the land from the city, and for the first 30 years, they receive the revenues. After 30 years, the hangar reverts to the city. Meanwhile the builder collects the revenues from the planes that park there and the city gets the revenue from fuel and maintenance.” Volk has explored the idea of having a restaurant here as well. He explains many private operators fly to Fredericksburg or Taylor just to visit a special restaurant, and Georgetown could do the same. Meanwhile, we can look for food trucks in the near future, so visitors and owners can fill up their own tanks while they stop over or visit the airport.

A successful local airport is a great economic development tool as well. Volk says, “Without an airport, it is impossible for a community to attract the corporate development many are looking for. Corporations generally won’t build in a location where they can’t land nearby. A good example is Ross Perot Jr.; when he wants to check on his development projects, he lands here. Otherwise he

would build somewhere else.”

The airport is also the first impression many people have of Georgetown. “Just last month, we had 12 Army Apache helicopters spend the night here from the Utah National Guard. We provided our courtesy car for lunch and it was a treat to have their helicopters here. A lot of curious people stopped by and were graciously provided impromptu talks, selfies and tours of the aircraft. All those crews ate Georgetown food and stayed in Georgetown hotels.

We could never have planned that, but it was a great day and they said they would be back.”

As a fixed-based operator, airport staff also provide concierge-like service. “Pilots don’t have to notify us in advance they want to land here, but owner-operators can call ahead of a planned trip and we will arrange cars and hotels for them. We have people who will clean the cabin, refuel; anything. We expect an uptick in that type of business when UT is playing a home game and people don’t want to fly into ABIA.” Volk came to Georgetown 19 months ago from Utah. He misses the mountains there but loves Georgetown, and his job is rewarding to say the least. Last year the city did an audit of their operations and the airport was expected to operate in the red for another five years. The airport does not operate with any tax dollars from the citizens of Georgetown and Volk’s cost-cutting and budget analysis has already brought the airport back to and maintained in-the-black operations for the first time in years. “We did new breakdowns of our expense categories, re-evaluated our rate appraisals, and are working toward expanding opportunities for core revenue.”

While growing operations and saving money, Volk and the airport

are under near constant scrutiny for safety and upkeep by city, state and federal agencies. Right now they are undergoing a $7.9M improvement project, funded 90 percent by the Federal Government and 10 percent airport dollars. Upgrades include an above-ground fuel storage to replace the 30-year old system underground but on top of the Edwards aquifer. There is also a new, parallel taxiway to relieve congestion and improve the flow of airplanes around the airport. All of the runways and taxiways will get pavement maintenance; seals and markings and asphalt maintenance, which hasn’t been done since 1998. “Airport asphalt is different than on highways. It is designed for takeoffs and landings at high speeds, not constant lighter weight traffic. We are working on a more routine asphalt program using airport funds because a tweak here and there avoids major projects down the road and safety is paramount to everything we do.”

Did you know:

As a safety measure, every fuel tank, whether automobile or aviation, has a vent that diffuses fumes into the air around us. You can see them at gas stations, usually a single tall pipe about eight or more feet in the air. Georgetown has more than 50 gas stations and the airport has two pumps, so the airport is just a small fraction of fuel in the air.

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riding the highways & byways with the

Sun City Cycling Club Cycling is the second most popular outdoor activity in the Unites States. Just ask the 150-plus members of the Sun City Cycling Club.

Club President Greg Hughes reports that as many as half of his members are active cyclists, meaning they participate in organized rides on a regular basis. Beginner riders need not worry about current fitness, Hughes says; “The only requirement is wearing a helmet and just ten bucks a year to join. We are not an official Sun City club, so membership is open to anyone. We have lots of rides and the means to work on stamina over time.”

The Club offers endless opportunities for exercise and social activity for riders at every level, starting with a social ride that leaves at 8am every day from the Pavilion. “The ride speed is about 12 mph,” Hughes says, “and we leave no rider behind.

It’s basically a ride-and-talk event.”

8 | SEPTEMBER 2016

The daily ride includes three stops over about 20 miles and they end at City Market for coffee after about 90 minutes of travel. Newer riders who aren’t really ready for 20 miles can take shortcuts and go slower to get themselves in shape for the full rides.

Next up from there is an Intermediate ride on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The speed is slightly faster; 13-14 mph but again, Hughes reports, no rider is left behind. Hughes rides at the rear and makes sure to tell everyone in the group to wait at intersections for directions. The riders stop about half way through the ride for coffee, usually wherever they are; Florence, McDonalds, local diners, or hotspots like the Weir diner. “Normally the coffee spot is the destination somewhere in a 3040 mile ride. The intermediate ride takes about 3-4 hours.”

For hardier riders, the Mon/Wed/ Fri ride includes an A and a B group.

The As travel about 17-18 mpg, and the Bs at 14-15. They all end up at

the same place, but the A group is usually finished with coffee and ready to leave by the time the B group arrives.

Sharon Reed at the Continental Divide during a cross country ride.

Dues cover managing their website and some of their social activities. As well, riders’ mileage is tracked and recorded each month by the club. Hughes says they award a trophy to the person with the highest mileage for the year but, he says, “Tracking is very informal and we can adjust your goals based on your training or if you need to downgrade due to illness or injury.”

Some members accumulate as many as 10,000 miles per year.

Many just enjoy being outside and spending their time riding a bike.

Biking is good for balance, mental health, coordination and even back pain, and the monthly socials are just plain fun.

The Club is also very active in Georgetown’s Red Poppy Ride during the annual festival each spring. The event has about 1000

riders each year, from all over Texas. Club members mark the roads for the ride, provide volunteers to hold bikes during breaks (high-end bikes don’t have kickstands), and they help organize food and refreshments at rest stops. This year they donated $2800 to the Georgetown Police Department to support their bike program.

The club also provides information and resources for very long and cross-country rides. Right now there are a half dozen riders preparing for the “Hotter’N Hell” race across Texas, which includes several legs with as many as 100 miles per day in the hottest weather. Of course everyone rides at his

Bill Carson (N35) and club president Greg Hughes (N43) enjoy a coffee break.

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or her own discretion, and weather preference. Hughes says there are usually at least a few riders, even in the rain or cold. And there is never a program set in stone. Riders choose which way to go; having the wind pushing them home or cooling them on hot days.

“We have a wide variety of people in the group and we look forward to the diversity—that makes it interesting,” says Hughes. “We are always looking for new members of all ages. We’re not above accosting anyone we see on a bike and inviting them to join us!”

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Cyclists ride daily from the Sun City pavilion.

Riders of varying ability enjoy the health benefits and cameraderie the club offers.

Photo by Robert Crane

encouraging people ever since.

Bill rode 50 days, coast to coast in 2008 on a team called Cyclists Combating Cancer. Initially he was riding in honor of his brother, but he considers it an honor to ride for all cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. His personal drive is early detection. In 2005, Bill’s doctor diagnosed chronic lymphocytic leukemia, which is a very slow-moving cancer. A chance review of his CT scan during treatment identified a much more aggressive form of kidney cancer.

Caught early, he recovered completely and three months later he was riding a 500-mile trek through the mountains. He used his story to show that having one kidney is not a problem for keeping fit. “When you have leukemia, if you take care of yourself, look what you can do.”

A Cycle of Inspiration Cyclists are a very diverse group.

Some ride fat tires on mountain trails, some ride with babies in tow, some ride hundreds of miles for speed and sport, and still others use them to get to work. One thing all of those variants can have in common is their ability to raise money while enjoying their favorite outdoor activity.

Sun City resident Bill Carson (NH35) and his wife Judy decided to ride for Multiple Sclerosis as a retirement activity and now, as a cancer survivor himself, he has ridden across America and been

about how lucky I am, and I always enjoy the diversity of the people in the room. It’s so much like cycling, really. You never know with whom you’re sitting or riding next to, and everyone in treatment or on a ride is the same. No matter who they are or what they do, everyone has the same goal.”

Carson is looking forward to

getting back on the bike as he can.

“You’re free once you’re on a bike and especially on a cross-country ride. It’s fantastic.” Meanwhile, he keeps busy on the golf course in Sun City and reminds everyone they only need three things to be happy; someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to.

Over the years, Bill’s immune system has cut down on the amount of cycling he is allowed to do. “In the club, even a social ride always ends up being a little competitive and I have to be wary about dehydration and fatigue.”

Instead of regular cycling, he has become a volunteer at The Cancer Treatment Center. Carson spends every Friday talking to patients in treatment or helping with whatever the nurses need done. “I try to be encouraging and just talk to people about how they’re feeling.”

The Center’s doctors have shared with him that his unique perspective at the center is important.

Many of the volunteers are women, and the men in treatment appreciate the empathy of a person who truly knows what they are going through.

“My Friday mornings are always a profound experience,” Carson says. “I always leave feeling great

Health challenges haven’t slowed the inspiration Bill Carson (N35) brings to his friends and community.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | 11

Think Outside The Box: T he C hanging L andscape

You see the people who mean the most at births, weddings and funerals, right? You have nine months to plan for a baby, most people plan a wedding for about a year, and a funeral—you have about four days.

But, like everything in the digital and social media age, commemorating a person’s life is growing ever full of creative and customized trends to move us away from the stereotype of the stern undertaker and a black-clad churchy burial and toward a celebration of life.

“We don’t want to just place an order for the items and services you think you’re supposed to have,” says Elizabeth Quintero, Community Service Manager at Cook-Walden in Georgetown. “There is no formula anymore; we help you plan for an event in which you will be comfortable, surrounded by people you love.” To do this, staff spend

of

M emorials

time with a family to get to know their loved one and be surrounded by their things, go through photos, talk about hobbies and create something special that guests will appreciate. “We want to encourage the perspective that enjoying yourself is not disrespectful or undignified. Commemorating each person’s relationship is a healthy way to mourn.”

So it’s no longer about which casket and what flowers on the sympathy tripod; clients can still have those things, but if you prefer, you can have a barbecue or a garden party. Or have a casket with poppies painted on it. Was mom a cook? Instead of prayer cards with her name on it, guests receive a new spatula with mom’s name and years on it. Was dad a fisherman, how about a lure with his name on it?

Did he play golf three times a week?

That one is easy.

At the Georgetown home, they have had bands, margarita machines, a cupcake bar, tractors; and requests for full participation in cowboy boots or Hawaiian shirts. Quintero says, “We want people to ask for the moon. I’ll often hear someone say something offhand, like ‘He loved AC/DC. I wish we could play Hells Bells.’ So we did.” Just recently they had a service for a One example of a funeral memento; in lieu of traditional prayer cards, guests receive person- gentleman from New Orleans and had a jazz band funeral al remembrances of their loved one’s hobbies procession walk him to Oddor passions.

12 | SEPTEMBER 2016

Kevin Hull shows an interactive mobile event board that posts thoughts, stories and photos for guests. “People are together again, they are taking photos anyway, so we want them to be able to share.”

fellows Cemetery. “You have to have a police escort, so there’s no reason not to do it in style,” she says.

Kevin Hull, Executive Director of Cook-Walden, says, “It’s about engagement and participation.

We did a service for a rancher in Liberty Hill who was known as ‘Reloader’ because he reloaded shotgun shells for everyone in the community. We brought all of his equipment here and made the place look like his workshop and everyone got a shotgun shell to take home as a memento.”

There are several new-wave trends in burials, like being folded up in a “green” sack and buried under a tree or have your urn placed in the ocean to build a reef. Quintero says, “You can do anything if you plan well in advance and follow the laws regarding scattering or in-ground burial.” There are companies that will place your ashes in a functional firework or a special urn that will open and scatter them in the atmosphere.

For that relative who always says “Don’t do anything for me…” you can do that too. A catered dinner at a funeral home (even months later),

or a party room at a favorite restaurant—funeral directors function like concierges to help make that happen. They are celebrants who can speak to a person’s spirituality or religion, or both or neither. Hull says, “We can read from the Bible, or a favorite poem, or a song lyric.

We can do the service in a park just as easily as here in our building.”

Modern funeral directors are trained to pick up things from the family because it’s never just another service. Hull and Quintero agree, the most important thing is for people to think about it ahead of time and either write it down or tell someone. “It’s easy to put this on the back burner, but it’s really a gift you give your family. Planning something special in a matter of days in a time when they are emotional can be difficult, and they may wonder if they should have done something different.”

The bottom line is Celebrate.

Have Imperial Stormtroopers as pallbearers. Serve Big Macs. Give the guests cowbell mementos. Simply consider the truthfulness of a new pun; It’s a good time to think outside the box.

Getting To Know your Neighbors

THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURER: Indiana Jones? No, Jack Birchall!

Sun City is known for being awash in interesting people and fabulous characters. Jack Birchall (N06) is both. Born in Cincinnati in 1927, he has chronicled most of his life’s adventures for posterity (and his nieces) so his stories will never be lost.

Jack kept meticulous records of his life’s adventures through time-lines and memoirs.

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His curiosity about the world and a love of photography began at a young age. He had a professional camera and darkroom at age 14, and by the time he went to college, he was certain he had the urge to live a non-typical life.

His college years were bookended by World War II, so he majored in German with the idea that German-speaking Americans would be in great demand. Naturally, when he graduated college, he went right to Mexico, where no one speaks German! In 1943, the sudden appearance of a new volcano in a cornfield in Paricutin caught the attention of the world. Newspaper reporters and photographers rushed to the area, and Jack was among them. He got on a bus and the wanderlust took hold. “Mexico made a great impression on me; it has the perfect climate and such nice people, and I took no time practicing my Spanish.”

He learned enough Spanish to get by, and when he ran out of money he heard about and took a job working in a lead mine in

Guatemala. He had the place running smoothly within six months, and after recovering from a sudden appendicitis, he headed back to California to care for his mother and took a job in the “war against poverty” at the Welfare Department in San Diego. “Those were people with great character and compassion and I really thought it could have been a career for life.”

Unfortunately—maybe—he had a seizure on the way to work one day.

“My psychologist and neurologist and a bunch of other –ists told me to go to the tropics and relax; maybe find a farm. So I headed to Honduras, bought 40 acres for $2000 and started an orange grove—it was the best eight years of my life.” He speaks fondly of the people and the lifestyle there. “Although Honduras

A photo Jack took of the Lacandones Indians in the jungle of the Kayums.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | 13

has one of the highest murder rates in the world, I still found it full of good people. Folks you can sit down with, drink a Coke with and yack away the afternoon.

In the late 1940s, he went on a two-month excursion in the Kayum jungle, met dozens of indigenous tribesmen and women, and said the tour workers “were considered among the lowest scraping of the Mexican pot, but they were some of the best people I’ve ever known.” He also admired the men there because they lived beyond the entanglements of government, were quick to help invaders/tourists, and also had great legs because they climbed up and down mountains every day. “The people there ate what they found in the jungle. When they showed me the monkey I decided I’d just as soon eat beans, but wild pig was wonderful.”

He sold the farm to a neighbor, who made him an offer he couldn’t refuse, and he headed back to the U.S. He had a friend who was in business as a broker and sent him the orange money to invest. It was apparently a good broker (and a good friend) because he has been living off that money for 40 years. “I can live to be 120 and still not use it all.”

Sadly, there’s not enough room in this paper for all of Jack’s stories, but he will gladly share one of his half-dozen memoirs. They read like adventure-fiction, and his nieces think they are too dangerous to be 14 | SEPTEMBER 2016

With a family friend on his farm in Honduras; she still sends him Christmas cards.

true, but he insists they are all real. “I never thought my life was dangerous; just fun. I never married because I didn’t think it was fair for any woman to live the life of vagrancy I enjoyed, but I wrote my stories down for the time when I couldn’t remember.” He documented every year of his life in charts and timelines, one of which is the cover of one of his books.

Today, he lives a calmer life in his Sun City home. He was one of the first residents to buy, and even created the first directory of his neighborhood once enough people moved in. He laughs that he has a special talent for breaking his hips and is celebrating his one-year rehab anniversary (he’s doing very well by the way). He never

wanted to sit around and do nothing, so he stays busy writing and working on his computer. He likes his computer but, strangely, -it- keeps forgetting his password.

His home is thick with books and all manner of reading materials, and no television. He keeps the house hot by many standards, but, he says, “I spent so much time in Mexico and Central America, I grew to love the heat, and Texas feels cold most times.” His landscape is full of lush plants, some from exotic Asian or Central American shoots, and for anyone who needs a great afternoon of story-telling, Jack is easy to find in Neighborhood 6. And even in his golden years, he still lives by one of his favorite mantras, “Don’t get caught.”

...in the Central American jungle – the workers shot it for dinner, but he was more comfortable posing with than eating it.

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GEORGE AREA CA Cruising

Antiques, Classics and Hot Rods line the Georgetown square every third Saturday.

16 | SEPTEMBER 2016

ETOWN AR CLUB e l y t S n I

If you have a love of cars, classic or hot-rod (or both), you need not travel outside of local or central Texas to find a gathering of enthusiasts on any given weekend. Here in Georgetown, we are fortunate to be home to The Georgetown Texas Area Car Club (GTACC). Founded in 2005, the group is an opportunity for collectors, devotees and fans to get together and share their interest with neighbors and fellow Texans alike.

The club has more than 100 members and boasts a variety of vehicles from the glamour of the 1930s to the sexy muscle cars of the 21st century; original to modified, or custom jobs; plenty for everyone.

The GTACC meets at “Pistons on the Square” in the Georgetown Square on the third Saturday of the month, and is also a regular participant in the annual Red Poppy parade and other local festivals and fund raisers. They also support Williamson

County Brown Santa and provide an annual scholarship to graduating GHS and EVHS seniors who complete the Automotive Technology Program and wish to continue their formal education.

They also have a monthly “Sonic” raid in which members meet up at a different area Sonic restaurant at about 7pm to share cars, food and friendship.

The GTACC holds an annual car show charity event in May and is growing each year, becoming known for being among the most organized and fun shows in the region. They also provide opportunities for rentals. You can visit their website (GTACC.org) and submit a request to have a specialty car at a special event, for weddings, backdrops, or photo shoots. Policies are in place, but the requestor is asked just to contribute to the scholarship fund if a car owner is amenable to attend.

1955 Belair SEPTEMBER 2016 | 17

Glenn Swaffi e his 1968 Ply ld with mouth Barracuda.

Above: GTACC provides scholarships for Georgetown area high school students who complete the automotive technology program. Kent Didriksen (N31) - GTACC President; Hope Shannon GHS, Tyler Broomhall - GHS, Jacob Amison - EVHS, and Ian Mariano - GHS.

Left: David Valdez (N51) with his award-winning 2002 C5 torch red Corvette.

no

1969 Ford Tori

FUN FACTS A “CLASSIC” car must have been made between 1925 and 1948 and has to be fully restored and running. In some states, it can be a car that is more than 15 years old and fully restored.

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To be “ANTIQUE,” a vehicle should be more than 25 years old, completely restored and in full running order. Some states use 20 years as a minimum but generally, the vehicle is more than 25 years old.

Owners can request special use license plates that preclude them from annual inspections, since model years pre-date emissions control and other compliance items. These special plates allow drivers to be on the road for special events and shows.

Antique and Classic license plates are black with white letters in even model years. Odd-year models have white plates with black letters and many have the year of make included in the imprint.

RENTSCH BREWERY Rentsch Brewery is Georgetown’s first and only Brewery.

Uniqueness aside, the company is more successful than its owners could have planned. Last year at their grand opening they served about 1500 guests, and business has been constant and growing ever since. This past weekend, the brewery celebrated its one-year anniversary and guests filled up surrounding parking lots, street sides and grass lots—helping owner Andrew Rentschler serve up every drop of brew he had prepared for the party.

Rentsch makes all the beer at their facility and they distribute kegs for other pubs and restaurants around Central Texas.

They also donate a number of kegs around Georgetown to help non-profits and charity organizations raise money.

“We only sell our own beer here,” Andrew Rentschler says, “We are constantly brewing; it takes all week to make what need and most weekends we sell out.” Rentsch serves four core beers; Blonde, Hefeweizen, Weizenbock and IPA. There are always new and featured flavors and seasonal selections as well. You can check the website for the weekend selections.

(RentschBrewery.com)

to produce 10-12 times more beer than at present. “We are going to have a new taproom, a biergarten, and by next year we will be distributing our product in cans.”

Rentschler grew up in Georgetown. He has always had the entrepreneurial spirit and is happy to be in a position to give back to the community that was so good to him. First, when he got home from college, he cleaned out his parents’ garage and immediately began test brewing and working on his recipes full-time. “My job is to do research and tasting, and think about new flavors all the time,” he says.

Once the business took off, the Brewery began sponsoring sports teams (e.g., Sun City softball), cycling races, and donating to local charities to increase the breadth of the company’s impact.

The Brewery is open Fridays 4-8pm and Saturdays 12-8pm.

They always have board and other games available, and they encourage customers to enjoy it as a family-friendly gathering place. Lemonade and water are available, and there are two large flat screens committed to Texas football teams; they even have a fantasy league among employees and patrons. There is Andrew Rentschler makes a stein club ($500 stein and free beer forever), some adjustments in the taproom. room for private parties, church events, game nights, and possibly even yoga soon. They also Thanks to the growth and demand for their craft beers, Renthave live music on Friday nights. schler is already mid-way through an expansion. He has purchased Rentschler is open to anything that creates a greater gathering the space next door and is going to knock experience for his customers. “Our bench seating style allows me out a wall for a patio that will seat to meet new people and get to know my customers and they get about 200 more guests. And the to know each other as well. Our stein club has become a tight-knit new equipment will allow him community and I like being of part of building that.”

DID YOU KNOW… One of the big trends in craft beer, depending on the style, is aging the beer in barrels. Brewers can use any kind of wood barrel, but most use bourbon barrels. Bourbon must be distilled in new barrels so there are plenty of bourbon barrels available for repurposing.

SEPTEMBER 2016 | 19

Camp No Counselors Do you miss the summer camp experience of childhood? Where all you had to worry about was bug spray for the hike and which colors to use for your friendship bracelet? Well, you can have those days again at Camp No Counselors.

Camp No Counselors is a 3000acre resort on a mountainous ranch in Vanderpool, TX, just three hours southwest of Sun City.

Accommodations are comfortable and modern. Food is farm-totable, and the cabins are everything from tree-house bunks to retrofit-

20 | SEPTEMBER 2016

ted silos. Sleep on pillow-top mattresses and air-conditioned bunks.

And granite bathrooms… so, it’s a grown up camp with all the fun of a kids’ camp. Among the important differences is that your healthy breakfast of eggs, cereal, bacon or fresh fruit, can be accessorized with Bloody Marys or mimosas.

CNC prides itself on being whatever kind of camp you want it to be. You can fill your day with sports and crafts, or just lay out by the lake and get a good tan. Activities include sports, canoeing, dodgeball, painting, nature hikes, rock wall, slip-n-slide, zip lines, and the most popular of camp activities… the Talent Show.

Night time activities include band shows, costume parties, and of course, an open bar.

The camp experience is three nights of lodging and activities, all meals and snacks, open bar all weekend, fun parties and sports, and all accommodations.

Fees are $575-599 per person, and there are several age 45+ weekends on the schedule. at www.CampNoCounselors.com.

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The Texas Capital Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) is sponsoring a G.I. Breakfast October 8 at the Cowan Creek pavilion in Sun City. The event will include military-style fare, eggs and sausage and plenty of strong coffee.

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The breakfasts began nearly 20 years ago, aimed at gathering together members who are spread out around the Austin area. All are welcome— veterans, families, friends and supporters—to attend the breakfast, but MOPH aims to honor all veterans, particularly those who are combat wounded.

Participants will hear news and information about benefits and new programs, as well as to enjoy the fellowship with the military community.

If you are a Purple Heart recipient, you are encouraged to bring relevant paperwork to register as a member of Chapter 1919.

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DON’T LET THIS ONE GET AWAY! NOT JUST FRIED FISH!

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SEPTEMBER 2016 | 21

MAYOR’S UPDATE

By Mayor Dale Ross

In our fast-growing city, residents are looking for easy ways to find out about community events and projects like new roads or parks. How do you know what’s happening in your city or neighborhood? The City has several platforms to learn about events, meetings, projects, and programs. Here’s how you can connect with the City.

The City’s website at georgetown.org is the quickest way to find out what’s happening at the Public Library, the Recreation Center, or any department or program. Get the latest on road or parks projects or new city facilities. You’ll also find public meeting agendas and minutes, permit information, restaurant listings, and online services such as paying a utility bill.

What’s your recycling pickup day? Designated outdoor watering days?

Your City Council district, zoning, or school attendance zones? Go to maps. georgetown.org/my-georgetown and enter your address to look it up.

The website also is the gateway to finding City social media sites.

Look for the icons in the footer at georgetown.org for the City’s primary Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, and YouTube pages.

In the past year, Nextdoor has become the most popular social media platform in Georgetown. On Nextdoor you can see messages from people in your neighborhood and get notices specific to your neighborhood from the City of Georgetown, Georgetown Police Department, and Georgetown Utility Systems. See alerts about power or water outages, road closures, or public safety issues. Sign up at Nextdoor.com.

Like us at Facebook.com/CityofGeorgetown or our other popular Facebook pages at LivePlayGeorgetown, DowntownGeorgetown, GeorgetownTXFire, GeorgetownTXPolice, GeorgetownTexasLibrary, GeorgetownTexasParksandRecreation, GeorgetownAnimalShelter, and ArtsGeorgetown.

22 | SEPTEMBER 2016

On the City’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/user/ TheCityofGeorgetown you’ll find videos on the 2017 budget, current capital projects, the Animal Shelter, downtown events, and more.

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/GeorgetownTX or our other Twitter pages at VisitGeorgetown, GtownParksRec, GeorgetownTXFD, or GTPublicLibrary.

Watch live City Council meetings and other City programs on GTV on Suddenlink channel 10 and channel 110. Or watch GTV online at gtv.georgetown.org or you can watch previous city council meetings on demand and by topic.

Go to georgetown.org and sign up for a weekly e-newsletter with events and news. Look for the “Sign up for enews” link in the green footer at the bottom of the page. Subscribe to an e-newsletter from the Public Library at library.geogetown.org or e-news from the Convention and Visitors Bureau at visitgeorgetown.com.

Living in the fastest-growing city in the nation, the City is working every day to expand our infrastructure and find new ways to extend services to meet news demands. I hope you’ll take advantage of all the ways to keep up with all that is happening in Georgetown, the greatest city on planet earth.

Last Chance for Priority Reservations— Opening Soon!

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SEPTEMBER 2016 | 23

Council Conversations Shifting Gears STEVE FOUGHT: Georgetown City Council (District 4)

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When a town passes 50,000 in population the US Census Bureau reclassifies it from Rural to Urban.

Among other things, that designation is a signal to shift gears. When the city is growing from 25,000 to 50,000 the mood is often one of “keeping the old ways” — preserving the “small town” atmosphere. When the city is growing from 50,000 to 75,000 city leaders need to shift the focus to the future — and, in nautical terms, avoid steering by watching your wake.

Such is the case in Georgetown now. The problem is that if we don’t get sufficiently ahead of the growth, it can overrun us and we lose control of our destiny. But if we if we overshoot and build too much infrastructure we can accrue a tax burden that will deter the very growth for which we are planning. The focus has to be on building a bridge to the future, not a plank we walk to our financial ruin. There are at least 4 major considerations.

The first is to provide a framework for growth. The City needs to revise the land use plan and set a course for our Planning and Zoning processes that provides the highest and best use of property. Much has changed since this was last done in 2008.

The second is to provide the infrastructure to accommodate growth.

This needs to be done in a manner that “growth pays for growth”.

Fortunately we have taken steps to assure this approach by dramatically increasing the new-construction

impact fees and by funding several long-range projects through longer term bonds (Road Bond, Public Service Bond, etc.).

The third is to keep a tax rate commensurate with the demand for city services, but at a level which encourages economic activity, especially in a downturn. As things stand now, the City’s tax revenues are increased significantly by increased property value assessments.

That will change, someday. The City Council has recently taken steps to “set aside” end of year excess fund balances to buffer against a downturn in the economy. That will allow us to absorb a decrease in revenue without having to raise property tax rates to maintain City services.

The fourth is to plan for economic development. Georgetown has traditionally focused on developing manufacturing jobs. The Council recently decided to expand the focus and seek to develop the retail sector. That is a “natural” extension because the general theory is that “retail follows residential”. We have a wealth of residential, so it’s time to pile on. I have also advocated adding the “medical” sector. That too seems natural, given our demographics, and the already increasing amount of medical, and medical-related, capability in the area.

Overall Georgetown is positioned well for the future. Our Mayor, City Council, and Staff (led by our City Manager) are well attuned to the necessity of “shifting up”. Indeed, the gears are in motion.

Wisdom From the rearview mirror

Invitation to the Kitchen Table By: Sharon L. Patterson

There is a place that is as clear in my memory today as it was when I was a child. I sat there daily some eighteen years before leaving home. We shared many things as a family at that 1950’s chrome kitchen table. Stories were shared along with some of the best cooking ever produced in a cast iron skillet.

Correction was made there, and it

might come before or after Mama’s chocolate sheath cake if my father thought my sisters or I might need it.

Life poured out right alongside the milk in our glasses. We were family.

There were differences of opinion to be sure, but honor was given where honor was due.

Yes, it is a place from then that I can share with you now. I’d like to invite you to the kitchen table. Let’s bring our differing opinions, and subject them to minds filled with principles, yet open to hear one another.

We are still family. I fear we have lost honor for one another because all I seem to hear anymore is one voice drowning out the other in such acrid tones of its own view that the other cannot be heard.

Goodness knows we are not all right and we are not all wrong. We have lost our vision of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Somehow we have changed that to: of the individual, by the individual,

and for the individual. If I remember my history correctly, that can only lead to anarchy.

Surely we are not helpless dependents needing to nurse continually at the breast of government, nor are we so self-reliant that we do not need to help one another when needs are greater than provision.

What incredible family history we have. We are a rowdy bunch, but we have been able to resolve our differing issues. Remember those who sacrificed lives? They never waited around to be given life. They jumped in with whatever they had. Landed gentlemen fought alongside farmers, and then when we won our independence, debated long and hard on how we would rule ourselves. No one would have complete power. It would be spread in different branches with checks and balances.

Yes, they gathered around tables and they talked with one another

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even as the arguments grew heated.

But they did not leave until issues were resolved. How I wish we could do that just like my personal family did when we gathered at the kitchen table. We did not need polls to determine where we were, or where we were going. In common language, face to face, we shared and we solved many things. Maybe, there is still time…at the kitchen table.

Sharon L. Patterson, retired educator, author, and lay minister from Round Rock has written and published inspirational encouragement in various forms from greeting cards, short stories, poetry, and Bible studies for over thirty years. She has authored three books, she recently published a perpetual desk calendar, and is also a contributing author for seven books. Additionally, Sharon writes for the quarterly e-zine Ruby for Women.

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SEPTEMBER 2016 | 25

Newcomers Get A Friendly Welcome

If you’re new to Sun City, or live anywhere in Georgetown, the Newcomers & Friends of Georgetown is a great way to meet people and engage in activities you enjoy. The club has been welcoming new neighbors and friends for the past 43 years, and while not a Special Interest Group (SIG), it is your direct line to them via GeorgetownNewcomers.org. Approximately one-half of their 260 members live in Sun City and you don’t need to be new to Georgetown to join; membership is open any time (that’s the “friends” part).

Publicity Director Bea McClure explains, “We provide social, civic and charitable opportunities based on interests, and hopefully help people find new friends and things of interest.” Some of the groups they engage with include Cosmo Girls, mahjongg, canasta, movie groups and some activities specifically for couples. They also sponsor day trips. Membership is just $25 per household for one year to “help round out your life and experiences here, especially if you want to try something outside of Sun City.”

The club meets the first Thursday of the month; the next meeting is at Berry Creek Country Club, September 8 at 9:30am and includes coffee before and a luncheon after. The speaker will be Marissa Austin, former Executive Director of the Palace Theater; her topic is “Entertainment, Education and Outreach.” For more information email membership@GeorgetownNewcomers.org.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Prostate Cancer Awareness & Prevention

By Jack C. Long, MD

Did you know that prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer? About one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates more than 180,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year alone. Almost 30,000 fathers, brothers, husbands and sons die of prostate cancer yearly.

With such high numbers, it’s important for men and their families to be more informed about this deadly disease.

What is prostate cancer? The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that wraps around the urinary channel as it exits the bladder. Prostate cancer begins when cells in the gland start to grow uncontrollably. Cancer will sometimes change the shape or consistency of the prostate.

SEPt 10 Sept 24 Oct 8 Nov 5 Dec 10

lucas hudgins & the 1st cousins kevin sekhani james “slim” hand Jeff Hughes & chaparral jason Roberts band – holiday show!

SEPT 17 “a streetcar named desire” (1951) Oct 15 “ True grit” (1969) Oct 29 “the goonies” (1985)

26 | SEPTEMBER 2016

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer? Early prostate cancer may not cause any symptoms.

However, more advanced prostate cancer can cause symptoms such as problems urinating, including a slow or weak urinary stream or the need to urinate more often; pain in the hips, back, chest or other areas; and weakness or numbness in the legs or feet.

Who should be screened? According to most people in urologic oncology, men over the age of 50 should be screened. Men between the ages of 40 and 50, with risk factors of race or family history of prostate cancer,

should strongly consider screening.

After age 70, screening has less value, but healthy men with a family history of longevity may wish to continue.

What can I expect at a prostate screening? A screening may include a rectal exam and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. High PSA levels can signal prostate cancer as well as other prostate problems. A high PSA does not always mean you have cancer. Your doctor will determine if other tests are necessary.

What does the government recommend? The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has recommended against using PSA for routine screening. However, many medical experts say PSA testing is a reliable method to detect cancer in its early stages, and preventive screening reduces prostate cancer mortality rates by more than 25 percent. PSA testing and physical exams save about 20,000 lives yearly in the U.S. Prostate cancer is a serious disease, but most men can be treated successfully. Both surgery and radiation therapy are highly advanced for this disease. In fact, more than 2.9 million men in the U.S. count themselves as prostate cancer survivors.

If you have questions about the health of your prostate, talk to your doctor to determine if screening is right for you.

Jack C. Long, M.D., is a board-certified urologist who practices at St. David’s Georgetown Hospital.

LEO’s Honored At Blue Mass

Chaplain Ricky Poe, Sheriff-elect Robert Chody, County Attorney, Dee Hobbs, Mayor Dale Ross, Judge Bill Gravell, Lt Governor Dan Patrick, TX Rep Tony Dale, Judge Billy Ray Stubblefield prepare for Blue Mass.

About 250 LEO, family members and friends joined in fellowship at Celebration Church September 4 to honor and pray for members of the law enforcement community. Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick gave the opening sermon and illustrated how the life of a law enforcement officer is John 15:13; “The greatest way to show your love for your friends is to give your life for your friends...how many people, outside the military, really give their lives for their friends?...and by the way it’s not their friends law enforcement give their lives for. It’s a stranger in almost every case.”

UPDATE: “Blessed are the Peacemaker” Signs

The "Blessed are the Peacemaker" signs continue to proliferate across Williamson County. To date, more than 5000 signs have been distributed from Round Rock to Hutto to Florence and Sun City. One supply of 500 signs was provided in Sun City in August and they went quickly. Currently, creator Roger Harris is waiting to hear news from local McDonald's franchise owners on the results of their fundraiser earlier this month, which will result in at least one more printing of the signs. Right now, due to an overflow of other commitments, fundraising will take a hiatus, but as soon as the latest signs are available, days and locations will be posted on the City Insider Facebook page.

Provident Crossings apartment homes feature today’s trends with open layouts, larger rooms, walk-in closets, full kitchens and more. The community is a village unto itself with a theatre, shops, salon, spa, exercise and game room, and a grab-and-go café, to name a few. With no buy-in or long-term leases, the month-to-month rent model makes it easy for seniors to live life worry-free. To provide residents the very best in care, Provident Crossings brings peace of mind and choices while eliminating the surprises of home ownership.

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SEPTEMBER 2016 | 27

THE BUCKET LIST:

Recently, Sun City residents Webster Russell (Russ) and Dee Coffeen checked a major item off their bucket lists—a 111-day trip around the world! Russ and Dee invite you to experience this adventure as they share photos, anecdotes, travel tips, destination recommendations, and maybe even a little gossip about finding love on the high seas.

Sydney Opera House

Lectro Chi Ionic Foot Spa Available At Georgia’s Naturals!

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AUSTRALIA: Land of the wallaby, kangaroo, and Koala; as much as we wanted to see the wonders of Australia we were ill prepared for what we saw.

Australia is a land of the beautiful and the extreme, surrounded by a vitality seldom seen today. We arrived in Sydney in the early morning to one of the most gorgeous ports in the world. To give you an idea of just how large this port is, it has 149 miles of shoreline, dotted by many, many little bays.

As we passed the spectacular Sydney Opera House our ship's choir, sang "Waltzing Matilda" and "I'll Still Call Australia Home" on the deck; Russ and I sang with the ship's choir of about 50 people.

The excursion around the bay was wonderful; however, we were most impressed with the Australian people. They were animated, friend-

ly, and had a vitality about them that was infectious. It is a wonderful city.

From there it was on to Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory. We discovered the Northern Territory was really sparsely populated, yet immensely enthralling. We spent very little time in the city, as we were more interested in

seeing the countryside, the termite mounds and Litchfield Park, some of the most unique things in this area.

Some of the Magnetic and Cathedral termite mounds stand four to five feet tall, while others are 20 to 30 feet tall. The park was dense, tropical, and beautiful.

Cairnes was our next stop, and

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Queensland Australia is the gateway to the famous Barrier Reef; but first we went inland on the Kuranda Railway. Construction of the Railway began in 1886 and was completed in 1891.

The fifteen tunnels we went through were hand cut, and the thirty seven bridges were built by hand, as well. The trip took over an hour through beautiful scenery, forests and magnificent waterfalls. Once at the top, we boarded the 4-plus mile skyride over the Barron Gorge back into town.

A short introduction to the aboriginal history and culture was also fascinating.

We all know that The Great Barrier Reef is the largest and best known coral reef ecosystem in the world, made up of about 3000 separate reefs.

What was surprising was viewing it from the ship. To give you an idea of just how large it was, it took two days or so of required slow sailing to get through it.

Once we passed the barrier reef we were off to Bander Seri Begawan and Kota Kinbalau, countries

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Litchfield Park in the Malaysian archipelago. They were beautiful, however after the unique magnificence Litchfield Parkof Australia and New Zealand, they were not quite as spectacular to our eyes.

Next, we headed to a place Russ had left some 50 years before—but that is for the next issue.

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SEPTEMBER 2016 | 29

By John W. Bickle, Attorney at Law

Welcome to another in our series of articles regarding matters involving Texas and Federal law which I hope will be interesting and useful to you. As before, I’ll continue to quote liberally from and use the format which was inspired by the Elder Law Handbook of the Tarrant County Bar Association.

However, remember this is information and not legal advice. For legal advice, ask your lawyer. This month we’ll start to look at some concerns about ESTATE ADMINISTRATION AFTER PROBATE.

1. What’s involved in estate administration?

Estate administration involves identifying and gathering the assets of the decedent; paying the decedent’s debts, administration expenses and taxes, if proper, and if there are any; and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the will or to the heirs determined under intestacy or some other legal proceeding.

2. What is an independent administration?

Under Texas law, an independent administration is administration of an estate without court supervision. Under normal circumstances, within 90 days after appointment and qualification, the probate court will require an independent executor or administrator only to file a sworn inventory, appraisement and list of claims of the estate and to provide notice to creditors and beneficiaries. Usually, no further court involvement is necessary 3. What are the advantages of an independent administration?

The primary advantages of an independent administration are (1) reduced cost of administration, and (2) faster more efficient administration because decisions can be made and actions taken without court permission or supervision. It is a streamlined and efficient method of wrapping up a decedent’s affairs.

4. What are the disadvantages of an independent administration?

The primary disadvantages are (1) that it is difficult and expensive for an heir to force an unwilling independent executor or administrator to disclose information, and (2) since most independent executors and some independent administrators are not required to post a surety bond, the heirs may lose, if the

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executor or administrator steals from the estate, loses assets, or mismanages the estate and they are not able to pay it back from their personal funds.

5. What is an executor?

An executor is the person or institution you name in your will to administer your estate after you pass away.

After appointment and qualification, an “independent executor” is relatively free of court supervision and control in carrying out his duties. Usually, the independent administration of a simple estate can be completed in a short period of time.

6. What are letters testamentary?

Letter testamentary are documents issued by the Probate Clerk or County

Clerk after the executor has been appointed by the court and has qualified.

These documents are evidence of the executor’s authority to “step into the shoes of the decedent” and act for the estate.

I’ll be back next month with more questions and, hopefully, more answers.

Remember, we’re all in this together and the more information you have the better questions you can ask your lawyer and the better decisions you will make.

John W. Bickle resides in Sun City, is licensed to practice law in Texas and continues in practice today as a member of the Williamson County bar. He can be reached by phone at (512) 868-8593 or by email at jbbickle@msn.com

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Pokey's Current Listings Property Address

Floor Plan

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Lot Type

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