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TOWN & COUNTRY
IN THIS ISSUE: Don’t Spend Your Holiday in the Kitchen - pg. 9 ∙ Georgetown’s Police-Realtor Partnership - pg. 14
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Veteran’s Day: Field of Honor The Rotary Club of Georgetown held the opening ceremonies for the City’s inaugural Field of Honor, November 5. Veterans, dignitaries, officers, entertainers and more than 100 guests shared respect and remembrances for the nation’s Veterans. USMC Veteran, Master of Ceremonies, and Chief of Police Wayne Nero summed up the day and the event; Veteran Vicki Mooney (USAR), Arlen Reige (USAF) and his wife Lana. Lana’s father was a WWII Veteran.
“While not perfect, we live in the greatest country on the planet. Our flag represents the UNITY of our people, the SUM of those differences, and the HOPE that exists in the potential of the American way of life.” “Colonel” is the poster dog for the Train a Dog-Save a Warrior program • GPD Chief Wayne Nero, Rotarian/Event director Jeanne McClellan, Mayor Dale Ross, GFD Chief John Sullivan
Visit FidelisMedia on YouTube for a moving tribute.
Senior Drum Major Kyra directs the field during rehearsal for the public performance at GHS. At right, Drum Major Erin does the same at mid-field.
Georgetown HS Band Soaring into State Competition
The Georgetown High School Marching Band headed to State UIL competition Nov 7 for the first time in 17 years. The band performd their show “unXpected” at the Alamodome in San Antonio. They left town with a police & fire escort and community send-off through the downtown Square. Carol Watson, director of fine arts said. “It’s the first time our Eagle Band has been to State UIL competition since 2000, around the time that many of these kids were born. You could say they were born for this moment!” Jordan (top-right), a Freshman trombone player, says the band has been rehearsing since last school year ended. “We practice for several hours during the school day, then another 7-1/2 after school for Friday night games. Then we bump up the schedule about three weeks before competition. After State we still have sectionals but it is a year-round commitment we all love. During football we are all about discipline, practice, get homework done and knock it all out. The coming concert season will be ‘more chill.’” Results from state were not available at press time.
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C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
5-7
holiday event calendar
10
50 fellas cook up 5-star cuisine
12
meet koda, the GFD fire dog
20
jarrell mayor’s congressional commendation
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around town Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC Copyright @ 2017. All rights reserved.
Managing Editor Cathy Payn e
Content & Photography Ann Marie Ludlow
Design: Elysia Wright Davis
Columnists: Jim Miller Jonathan Conner, M.D. Info@CityInsiderTX.com P.O. Box 213 Jarrell, TX 76537 Sales 512-746 - 4545
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Thursday, November 23 11:30 am • Last Seating 7 pm APPETIZERS
ENTRÉES
SIDES
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Honey Baked Ham
Cajun Stuffing Green Beans Almondine Sweet Potato Casserole Chef’s Potatoes with Gravy
burnished with crispy Tasso ham
Pecan Goat Cheese Salad Salad Romaine & field greens tossed in smoked applewood bacon vinaigrette with brandy-roasted apples & pecan goat cheese
with mustard bourbon sauce
Roasted Turkey Breast
with creamy peppercorn gravy
Blackened Beef Tenderloin over caramelized onion & mushroom demi glace
Smoked Ribeye
over red wine pepper sauce
DESSERT Holiday Trio
Pumkin Pie Pecan Pie Whiskey Bay Cheesecake
Choice of : 1 Appetizer & Ham or Turkey Entrée, 2 Sides & Dessert Trio $35.95
Choice of: 1 Appetizer & Tenderloin or Ribeye, 2 Sides & Dessert Trio $43.95
Limited Seating - Make Your Reservation Today!
512-943-4214 On the Square in Georgetown | 701 S. Main St. | GumbosNorth .com| 512.943.4214 4
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017 Medi cine the way it
Town & Country us ed to be!
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NOVEMBER EVENTS SANTA SHUFFLE NOV. 16 On Thursday, November 16, from 5-9 pm, shuffle downtown to kick off the Holiday Shopping Season. Cups can be purchased for $15, which participants may carry around the Square for fill-ups. Beverages will vary and you’ll get to choose, but please know they may not all be booze. Guests are encouraged to dress in holiday attire. There will be live entertainment and late shopping hours. VisitTheGeorgetownSquare.com/Sip-And-Shop.html for more information. 5TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT NOV. 23
Office Hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 8 am - 5 pm | Tues. 8 am - Noon
Georgetown Fire Department 2nd Annual Community Thanksgiving The Georgetown Fire Department is having its 2nd Annual Community Thanksgiving. You don’t have to apply or even have a need and the dinner is free to all. Just come by the Georgetown Library, First Baptist Georgetown Rec Center (1333 W University Ave), or Housing Authority (210 W 18th St) on November 23rd from 11am-1pm and have a sit-down dinner. This is a kid- and family-friendly event and you can even do a drive-by to pick up some vittles for your home table. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to volunteer to help decorate, cook, serve, deliver or clean-up for this exciting across-Georgetown day. Visit Facebook.com/GeorgetownFireDepartment for more details or SignUpGenius.com to get in on the action directly.
On Thanksgiving Day, the Georgetown Turkey Trot is set out on the roads and trails around the city for a 5K run and a 1-mile walk. Both events begin and end at the downtown Square and runners take their marks at 8am. There will also be plenty of sponsor booths to visit. Open to all levels of runners and kids/strollers are welcome.
CD RATES
Visit GeorgetownRunningClub.com for details. SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY NOV. 25 Texas’ Most Beautiful Town Square will celebrate Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Shoppers will receive a free map of participating Shop Small merchants, which will include a secret word and an entry for a gift basket at the end of the day. Enjoy the historic shopping holiday and decorated. Shop Small Shop Local, for more information, please call (512) 930-2027.
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CD Rates are current through the date of this issue.
EOE 5
TOWN & COUNTRY
Happy Thanks-mas, Georgetown! Native-American fiction writer Stephen Graham Jones says, “Some people are born for Halloween, and some are just counting the days until Christmas.” Fortunately, if you are one of the latter and you live in and around Georgetown, there are plenty of decades-old traditions that usher in the most wonderful time of the year. Starting November 24, Georgetown will celebrate the official start of the City’s holiday celebration. Mayor Dale Ross will headline the festivities and pull the switch to light up Texas’ Most Beautiful Town Square (cover photo). Customarily, around 6pm, the Mayor and his special guests lead the
crowd in a “Santa!” chant to bring the big red man to the stairs before turning on the million-plus lights, supported by Georgetown Utility Systems. Crews are already hard at work wrapping trees for the event. The growth of the holiday lighting project was spearheaded by a joint fundraising collaboration between city leaders and the Main Street Advisory Board. Downtown businesses continue to support these efforts through beautification and lighting additions of their own, and private contributions are always needed and welcomed to continue the expansion. There is also a window decorating
contest for businesses on and around the Square and the shops will be open late for the crowd. Entertainment will be provided by the Austin Carolers, with help from more than 100 youngsters. Santa will be available for photos and accept donations for needy kids throughout Georgetown and Williamson County for the Blue and Brown Santa programs respectively. (Wilcobrownsanta.com for Brown Santa or Bluesanta. georgetown.org for Blue Santa.) Both programs accept toy donations until mid-December. Look for donation barrels at the Courthouse and at All Things Kids on Main Street.
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Florence Clinic Dec 9 • 10 am - Noon Ace In The Hole Pawn (FM 970 & IH-95) David Foster, DVM • (254) 228-3960 No Appointment for Mobile Clinic Limited to Cats & Dogs
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C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
What’s Next? The 37TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS STROLL is coming up in downtown Georgetown around the Courthouse Square. This holiday festival, sponsored by the Downtown Georgetown Association is 5-9pm on Friday, December 1; 10am to8pm on Saturday December 2. The Stroll is a rain or shine event. In the event of severe weather conditions such as lightning or high winds, festival activities will be adjusted as warranted. Check the City social media pages for updates. Saturday begins with a parade at 10am, live entertainment on three stages, and holiday shopping at 150 booths as well as downtown merchants. The Bistro Food Court offers hot chocolate, funnel cake, and other seasonal treats. Enjoy Santa’s Village all day Saturday; photos and visits with Santa and the Whoo-village children’s area Friday night and Saturday. There will be rides for the kids, the popular Whoo-hair booth, and the Grinch himself.
What’s Hot and What’s Not for
2017 Gift
Giving
It’s literally the season for making a list, and it’s a good time to look at what you’re going to be trampling people over at Toys R Us or Walmart for this year. We’re not going to advertise a brand, but you can do a search on our generic labels to find some that are right for you.
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Kids love surprises and if you haven’t been on YouTubeKids lately, you might not know about the huge popularity of surprise eggs or blind boxes. Not only are there dozens of popular franchises with character series (Star Wars, Hatchibles, etc.), there are a few dozen YouTube channels with videos of people opening them to reveal the toy inside. To answer your question; we don’t know why that’s so interesting either. But, for less than $5, these little stocking stuffers are exciting collectibles for your little ones.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Intelligent personal assistants.
You know them as Siri, Alexa and Bixby, among others. They have been around a while, but technology and competition have brought prices down from the rafters. Starting at about $100, these personal assistants act as a smart home hub of communication, information and entertainment. Using voice commands and platform software, these digital geniuses can search the Web, check the weather, create lists and even do your shopping for you. They are great for integrating our ever-growing list of smart devices.
Fidget devices.
Stress balls are so yesterday. The fidget spinner hit a tipping point in 2017 and they seem to be everywhere you find retail. They are known to be very effective and helpful for calming and focusing our minds. Perfect for relieving stress or improving motor skills as well so you can stock up on these for kids’ stockings or get a few for your daily commute if you’re trying to mitigate boredom without playing with your phone. For just a few dollars apiece, you can get anything from slime to “hair pullers”. Great ideas for the office or the classroom.
Smartphone peripherals.
Companies are finally getting the message that talking to people is what we do least on our smartphones. This year you will be able to find photo printers, thumb drives, keyboards and more that plug directly into your charge port. No more searching for the USB cable and a converter. There is also a wireless charger that works for any device regardless of brand and many clip-on camera lenses to turn your phone into an art studio. These super tech gadgets start around $20 and the sky is the limit.
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C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
Don’t Spend Your Holiday in the Kitchen OpenTable, the restaurant reservation service, says data
from the past two years show restaurants served two to three times as many meals on Christmas and New Year’s Eve compared to an average day. And it’s not just Chinese take-out. Nationally, you should be able to find a Cracker Barrel or Applebee’s open for family holiday. You can also pre-order a Cracker Barrel meal for 10 ($99) that is ready to eat in two hours. (CrackerBarrel.com)
Where to go in Georgetown?
If you want to eat at home without the hard work, HEB has everything from turkey to dessert on the menu. Everything comes fully cooked and just needs to be heated up at home. You can pick up a catalog in the store or order online from HEB.com. The classic HEB Turkey Dinner serves 6-8 for $75.99. Normal catering needs just 24 hours notice, but for holidays, make sure to get your order in at least a week before the big day. You can also order your complete dinner from Dale’s Essenhaus. They are taking orders now for traditional turkey dinners, which will be ready for pickup on Wednesday, Nov 22. Their large packages serve 8-10 people and they will also be selling individual turkey lunch and dinner specials leading up to the big day. Meals include turkey, dressing, cranberries and a variety of sides. You can also order specials to go. (They will not be open on Thanksgiving Day.) Call 512-819-9175.
Laurie’s Café (612 S Main St Georgetown) is cooking up
turkey & dressing casseroles for you to take home and heat for
the family. They will be available through November 22. Call 512863-5875.
If you want nothing more than to actually see and talk to your relatives, why not just go out and have the dinner brought to you!
Gumbo’s North on the Square in Georgetown will be open Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve. Reservations for both are recommended but not required. They will be serving traditional turkey dinners and there will be a prime rib on the menu if you want to think outside the turkey box. Open Thanksgiving 11am6pm. Call 512-943-4214 to reserve your table. Brix and Ale at the Sheraton in Georgetown will be serving Thanksgiving Brunch from 11am-5pm. There will be traditional holiday fare and a carving station. Meals are $44.95/adults and $14.95 for kids under 13. Call 737-444-2750 for info. The Hollow will not be open Thanksgiving Day but they
will be having their annual day-before-thanksgiving family style feast at the restaurant, traditional Thanksgiving fare will be served and reservations will be required. Call 512-868-3300 or visit OpenTable.com for reservations.
Monument Café will be open on Thanksgiving for their normal business hours. They will be serving from their full menu and traditional Thanksgiving treats. They will also provide take-out service on the holiday. Also from November 1 through Christmas, you can order pies online and pickup. They will also be open during regular business hours on Christmas Day. And, just up the road a piece, Micah’s on I-35 S (south of Rt 487, exit 275) in Jarrell will be serving Thanksgiving dinner 11am-3pm but you must make a reservation. Call them at 512598-3773 for a full complement of traditional fare; turkey & ham, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, dressing, and more. Adults $14.99 and kids just $7.99. Call them while there’s still room! Call 512-930-9586 for menu ideas or to order a delightful pie.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
E-
F
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S TA
R FO
ODFE
A
ST
A: Georgetown developer David Wolf, Chet “Daytripper” Garner and his beautiful wife, Laura; Foundation Chair Greg Bowden B: Fire Chief John Sullivan and Assistant Chief Clay Shell and their pulled pork “mascot” in the entrée category.
FOR GISD FOUNDATION
B
C
C: Foundation Chair Greg Bowden and Dessert winner Pastor Kevin Uecker and David Morgan
D: People’s Choice winners for the second year in a row, team Pastor Patrolman Kelley Devoll and Ben Daniel flank GISD Superintendent Dr. Fred Brent (who was not at all disappointed that he didn’t win the award).
D PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Pastor-Patrolman Corn Bisque BEST DESSERT: Team Baptist Preacher’s Bread Pudding BEST APPETIZER: Team East View High School Brisket Nachos BEST ENTREE: Team Pickett Elem. Brisket Frito Pie
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The Georgetown ISD Education Foundation sponsored the biggest cook-off in town; the second annual 50 Fellas Foodfest October 28 in the GTU Jet hangar at the Georgetown airport. This trendy fundraiser attempts to combine the best foods by 25 teams of local manly chefs to create what felt a lot like a five-star tailgate party. Word of mouth from last year’s success brought almost 500 guests to the event to support the Foundation’s mission to assist the district in providing a world-class education for all students. The Foundation also received a great chef response and had nearly 50 teams who cooked everything from burnt-end brisket and quail poppers to bourbon chocolate cake. Secret recipes for Indian stew, jerk chicken, and team Ford Elementary ribs melting off the bone were very popular, as were the variety of adult beverages offered to wash them down. With generous pre-event sponsorship from HEB, Walsh Gallegos, Sun City Kiwanis, Wolf
Ranch, Raymond James, Georgetown Health Foundation and many others; ticket sales and silent auction items, the Foundation raised in excess of $74,000 (and still counting) for all of its programs, particularly teacher grants and the Sea Perch program. Teacher grants provide up to $5000 for individuals or groups who wish to apply new and innovative techniques, at all levels, in their classrooms. Foundation Chair Greg Bowden was excited about the turnout. “Since its formation in 2015, the GISD Education Foundation is coming up on $200,000 to support teaching and learning in GISD schools. This is a great follow-up to our inaugural event, and we are extremely blessed to live in a community that believes is the vision and came out to give back to the students.” Not resting on his laurels, Bowden is already busy planning their next event, the “State of the District” scheduled January 17, 2018 at the Georgetown Community Center.
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Many fire departments view their community standing as an important element in the overall success of the organization. Fortunately for Georgetown, our Fire Department is a “Varsity” team of public servants who rarely have to worry about their poll numbers. Members of the department not only embrace our community outside of emergency responsibilities, they are proactive in engagement. One officer in particular has even created and launched a one-of-a-kind program for education and outreach. Meet Lt. John Gilliam and his newest partner, Koda, the nation’s first Community Engagement Fire Dog. Lt. Gilliam heads up the Office of Community Engagement and was very proud to introduce Koda after three years of planning and research (and persuasion). So much more than your average Dalmatian fire-dog, six-month old Koda is an effective tool in the Community Engagement kit and an ever-more-popular representative of our city’s bravest. Lt. Gilliam has been with the department for 23 years and has always had a penchant for helping people, especially children. “I was a kindergarten teacher before I joined the department and I enjoy working with people, so this is a job I always knew I would love.” When he saw how well children responded to therapy dogs for reading, he hit upon the idea of a canine helper for fire education. Gilliam did a great deal of research to make sure the city’s most adorable asset would have the temperament and appeal that would be welcome by people of all ages. “She
new member of GFD
begging for attention
12
is a great ice-breaker and brings all the attention we like to have when we want to share important messages,” he says. “I am looking forward to her future training and inclusion in our many programs for people 5 to 105. She will eventually become part of our presentations—I’m teaching her to stop, drop and roll over and do other things we want kids to learn and mimic. They will certainly remember seeing the dog belly crawl under the smoke. Koda will also be a certified therapy dog so she will be comfortable with all the attention. We have received a lot of training support from Ruth Olsen of the Sun City Pet Club.” He also wrote the book, as they say, on the canine program for other departments to replicate and his success, to date, is clear. Koda has her own trading card and causes quite a fuss when it comes time for Gilliam to choose a sitter when he is on official travel. And, she will be the main character in a future kids’ book series about fire safety. Gilliam’s programs include fire prevention, CPR, weather safety, AED use and other educational engagements. Members of Safety and Fire Education Team visited nearly all of the elementary schools in GISD to talk about fire safety via an original, wacky and very entertaining play that had kids struggling to stay in their seat while they solved the mystery of the missing clown. Gilliam and his staff wrote the scenes and built a very complex stage for the play and they arrive at schools around sunrise to make sure the kids always get a good show. Lt. Gilliam and Koda are available at the Safety Center for scheduling at 512-930-3493.
Koda and Lt John Gilliam at Safety Center
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
RELAX & LET DALE’S DO THE COOKING!
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Visit Dales-Essenhaus.com for Pricing and Package Details
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Fresh Smoked Turkey & Gravy Cornbread Dressing Mashed Potatoes Sweet Potato Mash Green Bean Casserole
Schedule your holiday party today! Dale’s Banquet Hall seats up to 300!
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3900 FM 972 • Walburg • 512.819.9175 • Dales-Essenhaus.com 13
TOWN & COUNTRY
REAL STRENGTH IN THE POLICE-REALTOR PARTNERSHIP Georgetown Police Captain Evelyn McLean has begun a new and unique program to help combat crime in Georgetown. Combining her superlative skills as a law enforcement officer and her 15 years as a real estate agent, she recognized the potential in a partnership between the two. The Georgetown Police Department and Georgetown Realtors are teaming up to make our city even safer by creating a method and a means for real estate agents to report suspicious activity or red flags the police may find interesting. “Citizen awareness and cooperation has always been important to our department,” McLean says. “But it occurred to me that while the police employ 80-plus officers, there are more than 600 real estate agents in Georgetown who also spend a lot of their business day in and around our neighborhoods and inside the homes here. We also have several hundred city employees and business owners who can help, so once we get this off the ground we have plans to expand.” Special programs like these are becoming more popular across the country. They provide an opportunity for participants
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Georgetown Police Captain Evelyn McLean
to gain a better understanding of the procedures, responsibilities, demands and laws officers face. “The Department is only as good as the community it is in,” McLean says. “So now we will have so many more eyes and ears helping us and it is another level up because realtors are actually talking to people, going inside homes and may see things that appear out of place.”
McLean instructs agents to pay attention to people reluctant to provide complete personal information during a sale, or who ask very unusual questions. They also should take note of those making a home purchase with large sums of cash, if they see items that emit unusual odors or liquids, or if residents are using a property for something other than its intended purpose. “We encourage people to go with their gut. If it doesn’t feel right to a professional, we appreciate the heads-up.” McLean says “It may be nothing, but we encourage people to let us know. We will figure it out and act accordingly, and of course if it’s an emergency, always call 9-1-1. If we can be on to criminal activity before it occurs or escalates, it’s a win-win for everyone.” Agents may report suspicious activity to the GPD tip line 512930-2746 or visit the TipSoft website. “People want to buy homes they know to be safe and we take a lot of pride in making sure Georgetown fits the bill.”
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
The Soft Tasty Side of HardTails
If you’re looking for a neighborhood bar and restaurant where everyone knows your name, it’s just off the I-35 service road, among the shade trees and sporting an open backyard for live music, special events, and a lot of good times. HardTails Bar and Grill opened for business in 2009 when founder Dean Edwards decided his friends and customers at Hog Alley, the motorcycle shop next door, needed a place to kick back and relax (outside of his garage). While its origins in the motorcycle community are evident in the cool décor and carefree ambiance, HardTails is a family-friendly restaurant known as much for its great food as its happy hour and evening entertainment. General Manager Carrie Pack has been with HardTails for more than six years and says it feels like home. “There’s nothing else like it in Georgetown. I’ve been in the business all my life and the people here are the best I’ve known. My servers don’t have numbers or descriptions on their seating charts; they have names of all our regulars and everyone here is a friend. My favorite thing is the weekends when we have a full house of bike enthusiasts and the after-church crowd all enjoying the music, the patio and a wonderful Sunday brunch.” HardTails also opens its doors to groups and families for special events; reunions, graduations, and a wedding or two. They have live music Thursday through Saturday; Monday is 2-step dancing, and Tuesday and Wednesday are open mic night and karaoke. So whether you like poetry or rock-nroll, there’s a night for you at HardTails. “We don’t serve fast food,” Pack says. “We cut and grind our own meat, everything is freshly made with love and care; even the butter and the sausage. We also convert many of our burgers and sandwiches to salads if that is your taste.” HardTails is a great place to visit for comfort food year-round, an annual crawfish boil in May, great summer concerts and breakfast on the patio and they also sponsor a dozen or more non-profit events throughout the year; Hurricane Harvey Relief, MADD and more. “We really are like a family here,” Pack says. “People come in all the time, after they’ve moved away and tell me when they come back to town, this is their ‘must come back to’ place to visit. I’ve never had a better gig.” Visit HardTailsBarAndGrill.com for menus and hours.
Ask about HardTails’ famous Bi*** Dip. Made from fresh ground sausage and cream cheese, the home-grown recipe was bestowed on the late owner and named for his “cranky” friend who conceived it.
HARDTAILS
1515 IH-35 | Georgetown | HardTailsBarandGrill.com C
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TOWN & COUNTRY
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November 2017
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TOWN & COUNTRY
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21 N. Main Street Salado, TX
Mon., Wed.-Fri 6:30-4 Sat. 9-4 254-947-3688 Sunday 10-4 (in the Salado Square)
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By being a part of our community rather than a large corporation, The Gabriels can easily accomodate any service families require.
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Proudly serving our community since 1911. Whether you prefer a traditional burial or cremation, planning COOK-WALDEN DAVIS ahead allows you to designFuneral every detail Home of your own final tribute. When you’re2900 ready to get started, we’re here to help. Williams Dr., Georgetown 512-863-2564 CookWaldenDavisFuneralHome.com Proudly serving our community since 1911. www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov
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November 2017
Town & Country
where in georgetown ? Can you correctly identify this popular location somewhere in the city limits of Georgetown? Send your guesses/answers to info@fpgtx.com before November 30th. We will choose a lucky winner, from the among the correct entries, for a restaurant gift card and publish the winner (and a new photo) in next month’s issue.
congratulations sue retz Sue correctly identified October’s Where in Georgetown? as The Sunken Garden, which is located outside the Community Center in San Gabriel Park.
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www.FNBFST.com 19
TOWN & COUNTRY
AROUND TOWN congressional commendation On October 21, Jarrell Mayor Larry Bush was one of 12 Central Texas veterans presented with the Congressional Veterans Commendation (CVC) by Congressman John R. Carter. Veterans were nominated for the award by family, friends, co-workers and peers, and each nominee’s leadership and service to their communities was considered in the selection process. “The CVC program is designed to recognize veterans within the 31st district of Texas and preserve their stories for future generations of America,” explained Carter. Each awardee is entered into the Congressional Record.
Keynote Speaker Major General John C. Thomson III (Deputy Commanding General for III Corps and Fort Hood), Congressman John R. Carter and Jarrell Mayor Larry Bush.
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November 2017
Town & Country
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Zion Lutheran School Cross Country team
Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg cut the ribbon on the school’s Trail-o-bration Oct 11, officially opening their new walk/run trail for business. School principal Thomas Wrege explained, due to elevation and costs, the trail was the perfect solution to provide not only a competitive space for the 5th8th grade cross country team. “We realized our team needed a place to run, but the trail will also segue into wellness space for all of our students and our staff. Many of us have Fitbits and we challenge each other through those connections. Beyond that, this trail is for all of our congregation and the community as a whole. It’s a wonderful way to continue spreading the Gospel through healthy activity.” The current trail is about one-quarter mile, with plans to grow to 1.6 miles, which makes it a standard distance (by laps) for a cross country meet. When completed, the path will include
picket fences, scripture signs and mile markers and will traverse a portion of the church’s full 25 acres. “We could have just said it was finished, but we wanted to celebrate the hard work that built it and the great gift that God gave us. Our workers and volunteers put down weed barriers and spread six semitrucks full of granite,” Wrege says. “I keep those things in mind when I am on the trail and praying for our school, our community and the blessings we have here.” Next up is the school’s S-miles Club. Students will receive incentive gifts for racking up miles walked or run over time. Club sponsor Julie Weil says, “They are small gifts, but we want to do whatever we can to keep the kids and the staff running.” Visit ZionWalburg.org for more information about the church and school.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Lest We Forget C
A A: “Martha Hughes Cody,” B: “Dr. Dudley Queen,” C: “Maggie Compton” shares her story with Darrell and Atticus Hunt
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B
In conjunction with its year-long exhibit, and in keeping with its habit of superlative educational programs, the Williamson Museum honored county residents who lived or served during World War I during a WWI cemetery tour at the International Order of Odd Fellows November 4. Museum volunteers were transformed into some of Georgetown’s more prominent and noteworthy residents from a century ago. Museum Director Mickie Ross, as educator Annie Purl, talked of her love of teaching through three generations of Georgetown ISD. Pamela Biffle, as Maggie Whitemore Compton, shared the story of how the red poppies originally came to Georgetown, thanks to her son, Okra. The museum’s “Poppies & Progress: 1917-1923” exhibit will be open until May 31, 2018.
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
AROUND TOWN
AROUND TOWN
worship place community car show
georgetown firefighter recognized
Members of the Worship Place at Rocky Hollow celebrated their First Annual Community Car Show. This family-friendly event included dozens of classic cars, food trucks, a bounce house and more. Associate Pastor Allen Christopherson says, “We enjoyed the opportunity to reach out to greater Georgetown and find new families who may not realize what they’ve been driving past. We had a wonderful awards ceremony and we are already looking forward to next year’s event.” Next up for The Worship Place and Rocky Hollow is planning for Christmas holiday events, which will include an orchestra and choir. Check their events at TheWorshipPlace.org.
Chief David Coatney of the Dallas Fire Department stopped by Georgetown Fire Station 5 on October 14 to present Firefighter Justin (Brad) Hill with an Outstanding Unit Citation Award for his actions on July 7, 2016. Before joining Georgetown Fire Department, Hill was a part of the Dallas Fire-Rescue and was on duty the night a gunman opened fire on Dallas police officers. Hill was recognized for his actions that night as he and his partner, Jerod Anslem, provided patient care and transport for two wounded officers and then returned to the scene to provide further assistance.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
MAYOR’S U PDAT E lights on the square and holiday cheer We know that Georgetown has the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas. It never shines brighter than it does during the months of November and December when our downtown is decked out for the holidays. It starts with the Lighting of the Square at 5:30 BY MAYOR p.m. on Nov. 24, which is the Friday after ThanksgivDALE ROSS ing. I’ll join Williamson County Judge Dan A. Gattis with the help of Georgetown children when we throw the switch to light up the Square for the holidays. The lights in the trees, on the buildings, and on the Courthouse turn the Square into a magical place. We’ll sing Christmas carols and there will be free cookies and hot chocolate. The lights on our Square that will be up through the Christmas season are made possible by Georgetown Utility Systems, your community-owned utility going 100 percent renewable next year. On Nov. 25, we hope you’ll come back to the Square for Small Business Saturday and “Seek the Unique.” It starts at 10 a.m. when you can pick up a special Shop Small shopping bag at the Georgetown Visitors Center, 103 W. Seventh St. Participate in a bingo card game for the chance to win a gift basket filled with restaurant gift cards, art, and local goods. Small Business Saturday is sponsored by the Georgetown Main Street Program, the Downtown Georgetown Association, and Georgetown Chamber of Commerce. The following weekend on Dec. 1-2 is one of the highlights of the year when we celebrate the 37th annual downtown Christmas Stroll. Stop by all your favorite attractions at the Stroll such as Bethlehem Village, Santa’s Village, Whoo-village, and more than 150 artisan, craft, and food vendors. Free activities for children and live music are also part of the fun. Festival hours are Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. See details at DowntownGeorgetownAssociationTX.org. The Stroll parade starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday. I’ll be in the parade and look for Santa on the firetruck. If you come to the Stroll parade, I hope you’ll bring a toy for Blue Santa. New, unwrapped toys will be collected
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by Blue Santa Elves along the parade route, which travels along Austin Avenue through the downtown Square. Blue Santa is a program of the Georgetown Police Department to provide toys to children in need in Georgetown. New, unwrapped toys also can be brought to donation barrels at many Georgetown locations. Checks to “CPAAA Blue Santa” should be sent to the Georgetown Police Department, c/o CPAAA Programs, 3500 DB Wood Road, Georgetown, TX, 78628. Donate $10 or more to Georgetown Blue Santa and you’ll receive a collectable Blue Santa Elf lapel pin. For application information, donation events, and barrel locations, go to BlueSanta.Georgetown.org. Another Christmas tradition is our holiday ornament sale. A limited-edition collectible brass Christmas ornament featuring the Mileham Building at 708-710 S. Austin Ave. is on sale for $20. The 11th annual ornament sale is a project of the Georgetown Main Street Program. Ornaments may be purchased at the Visitors Center, 103 W. Seventh St. All proceeds fund Main Street projects and the Façade Fund Grant Program. And finally, our holiday season isn’t complete until we can have pancakes made by firefighters at Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 16. The 17th annual event is from 7:30 to 11 a.m. at the Community Center, 445 E. Morrow St. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, juice, and coffee. Kids can have a picture taken with Santa and get up close to a fire truck. Tickets are $6 at the door. Tickets also are available in advance at Fire Administration at the Public Safety Operations and Training Center, 3500 D.B. Wood Road. Children age 12 and younger get in free with an adult. The event is sponsored by the Sun City Rotary, Extended School Enrichment Program, and the Georgetown Fire Department. Proceeds benefit needy families in Georgetown during the holidays. So I hope you’ll plan to join me at these holiday community events under the sparkling lights downtown. The Christmas season is part of what makes Georgetown such a special place. For details on holiday events and activities in Georgetown, call the Georgetown Convention and Visitors Bureau at (512) 930-3545 or go to VisitGeorgetown.com.
C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
HEALTH & WELLNESS Flu and Flu Vaccines: Debunking Five Common Myths By Jonathan Conner, M.D. It’s fall in Texas, and with it brings cooler weather, changing foliage, pumpkins, and unfortunately, the flu. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, flu season officially runs from October through May. In Texas, flu activity usually peaks in December, January and February, although it can strike at any time. St. David’s Georgetown Hospital recommends you get vaccinated now before flu season is in full swing. People should get the influenza vaccine every year, not only because protection decreases over time, but also because a new vaccine is developed annually to match the specific strains of flu expected to be circulating that year. There are many misconceptions about the flu and flu vaccines, so I wanted to debunk the top five myths in order to help people become better informed about—and better prepared for—this year’s flu season: You can get the flu from the flu vaccine. This is the most common myth I hear, and it’s simply not true. The reason—the virus in the vaccine is inactive, and, therefore, it cannot make you sick. Some people mistake the mild side effects of the vaccine (including soreness) for the flu. Because it can take a week or two to gain full protection from the vaccine, it is possible to become infected during this time or to acquire a common cold or respiratory illness—and, although unrelated, people often falsely assume the vaccine is to blame. Once you get the flu, there is no medical treatment for it. While antibiotics are often prescribed to fight bacterial infections, they are not an effective form of treatment against a viral infection, such as the flu. However, there are some antiviral drugs, such as Tamiflu, that are highly effective against the flu. Antiviral medications, which can reduce the amount of time you’re sick, are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, but they can also provide some benefit after that. In some patient populations, antiviral medication may be beneficial beyond the first 48 hours. You can catch the flu from cold weather. While there may seem to be a correlation between the flu and colder weather, being out in the cold does not increase your chances of getting the flu. Exposure to the influenza virus is the only way to catch the flu, although being stuck indoors, in close quarters with other people, may make it easier for the virus to spread.
After December, it’s too late to get your flu shot. It’s never too late to get your flu shot during flu season. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the flu shot as soon as it’s available in your community, and preferably in early fall. Healthy people don’t need to get a vaccine. While the elderly population and people with chronic illnesses are at an increased risk of flu complications, even healthy adults can benefit from getting a flu shot, as they may spread the virus to others who are particularly susceptible. The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for anyone who is 6 months of age or older. It is particularly important for people who have chronic pulmonary (asthma, COPD), cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, neurologic, hematologic or metabolic disorders, as well as people whose immune system is suppressed. Additionally, women who are or will become pregnant during the flu season should get an influenza vaccine, as well as healthcare providers, residents of nursing homes and other caregivers. Visit the CDC’s website for a look at the full list of populations who should get a vaccine. Johnathan Conner, M.D., is the emergency medical director at St. David’s Georgetown Hospital.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
Strickland Grove Church of Christ
FAITH COMMUNITY FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH of Jarrell WEEKLY SCHEDULE Sundays
9:45 am Bible Study • 11 am Morning Worship 5 pm Choir Practice • 6 pm Evening Worship
New Hope
BAPTIST CHURCH P A S T O R
K E V I N
R O S S
All Are Invited To Come Hear The Word of God
Wednesdays 7- 8 pm
Youth - Grades 7 through 12 God’s Kids - Age 5 - 6th grade • Adult Bible Study
Even if you are not ready to be a member, you are encouraged to worship with us! We will be honored to be of service to you. We will provide a place in our church fellowship for temporary residents (and others) and a transitional step for those who need more time to review Baptist beliefs.
Need a ride? Call (512) 966-0971 Dr. Max Johnson, Pastor
110 W. Avenue G, Jarrell, TX
“ THE BARN CHURCH ” SERVICES: Sunday: 11 am & 6 pm
Sunday School: 9:45 am Wednesday: 7 pm
(512) 746-2828 1700 CR 305 | JARRELL
Join us for Authentic Worship, Incredible Fellowship, and Meaningful Lifetime Relationships with people who care!
10am 11am 6pm
SUNDAYS:
Bible Study (all ages) Worship Service Worship Service
WEDNESDAYS:
7pm
Worship Service
Strickland Grove Church of Christ 261 CR 234 | Georgetown 512-819-9457
Gods Ultimate Plan of Salvation Hear:
or be destroyed Acts 3:22-23
Believe:
or be condemned Mark 16:15-16
Repent:
or perish Luke 13:3
Confess:
or be denied Matthew 10:32-33
Be Baptized:
or be forbidden to enter the Kingdom John 3:3-5
Remain Faithful:
or be cast away 1 Corinthians 9:27
The Rev. Dr. Bill Pederson, Pastor
We are an Inter-Denominational church located in Georgetown on two convenient campuses. Come and join us! You will Þt right in, and feel right at home! Sun City Campus | 811 Sun City Blvd, Georgetown Services are Saturday at 5PM and Sunday at 9 and 11 AM Rocky Hollow Campus | 375 CR 245, Georgetown Service is at 10 AM on Sunday.
(512) 869-1310 www.theworshipplace.org
9:00 am Sunday School 10:00 am Fellowship following Sunday School 10:30 am Sunday Worship Children’s chapel & nursery offered during worship 5404 Williams Drive | Georgetown | 512-868-0902 | www.sgpcgeorgetown.org
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C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
FLORENCE CHURCH OF CHRIST:
and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord… “One of the great things about Church of Christ is that people don’t join the church, they are added to it. The church is not ours or any building; it is all of Christ’s people around the world who are saved through baptism.” Despite their Headstone from original church site small size, the Florence church has plenty of opdoing for the rest of my life.” portunities for service. SunPastor Myers graduated day morning has 10am Bible from the Memphis School of
MORE THAN A CENTURY OF STRONG FAITH
The Florence Church of Christ has been a part of the community for nearly 150 years and, like its physical foundation, the congregation is as sound today as it’s always been. Their pastor, Brandon Myers, joined the church in June 2017 and is delighted that helping others is a major part of his job description. Myers was pastor of another Church of Christ in Texas and came to Florence to be near family. “Like a lot of people, I changed my mind about my career choices many times when I was young. I realized I had skills and abilities to do various jobs that would provide a benefit to others but there are none more important than helping people take care of their souls. And it’s one job I knew I would be happy
Preaching and lives next to the church with his wife Clarisa and son Samuel. “We are a small congregation, about 30 come to service each week, but I love the laid back Texas feel of it and our members are truly dedicated to our study of the Bible.” Churches of Christ are individual congregations that are associated simply through belief and practice. “Each church is autonomous,” Myers says. “We do not have creeds or rule books; we are united on the foundation that the Holy Bible is the authority on worship and we have patterned ourselves on the original church of the New Testament.” Church of Christ celebrates communion weekly and doctrines of Baptism and the remission of sin. They also refrain from instrumental music, based on Ephesians 5:19; Speaking to yourselves in psalms
class, 11am worship and a 6pm service for folks who can’t make the morning service. They also have a Wednesday 7pm Bible study open to all and they recently held their annual Ladies Bible Class for the community to invite new members to learn more about the church and its principles. “There’s never a typical day here. Studying and working with the membership, then spending time with my own family,” Myers says. “We’re always working and I’m blessed to be a part of this happy and growing church family.” The church is located at 101 E. Tomlinson St. in Florence; you can find them on Facebook or call the church at 210-870-4735.
CHURCH OF CHRIST ~
FLOR ENCE “Come as you are, everyone welcome”
Sunday Worship 11 am N. Patterson Ave. @ 101 E . Tomlinson St. (Across from the Citgo Gas Station ~ Business Old 195) 210.870.4735 facebook.com/churchatflorencetx
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TOWN & COUNTRY
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November 2017
Town & Country
social security options for divorced spouses by jim miller Dear Savvy Senior, As a divorced woman, am I entitled to my ex-husband’s Social Security benefits? I was married for 14 years and would like to know how this works. Happily Divorced Dear Divorced, Yes, you may very well be eligible for divorced spouses Social Security benefits if you meet certain criteria. Here’s how it works. A divorced spouse can collect a Social Security retirement benefit on the earnings record of their ex-husband (or ex-wife) if you are at least age 62, were married for at least 10 years, are unmarried, and are not eligible for a higher benefit based on your own earnings
record. In order to collect, your former spouse must also be at least 62 and eligible for Social Security benefits. But, he doesn’t have to be receiving them in order for you to collect divorced spouse’s benefits, as long as you’ve been divorced for at least two years. Even if your ex is remarried, it won’t affect your right to divorcee benefits, nor will it affect your ex’s retirement benefits or his current spouse’s benefits. Benefit Amount A divorced spouse can receive up to 50 percent of their ex’s full Social Security benefit, or less if they take benefits before their full retirement age – which is 66 if you were born between 1943 and 1954. To find out your full retirement age and see how much your benefits will be reduced by taking them early see SSA.gov/planners/retire/ retirechart.html. Keep in mind though, that if you qualify for benefits based on your own work history, you’ll receive the larger of the two benefits. You cannot receive benefits on both your record, and your ex’s work record too. To find out how much your retirement benefits will be, see your
Jim Miller is the creator of Savvy Senior, a syndicated information column for older Americans and their families that is published in more than 400 newspapers and magazines nationwide. Jim is also a regular contributor on NBC’s “Today” show and KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City,and is the author of The Savvy Senior, The Ultimate Guide to Health, Family and Finances for Senior Citizens, (Hyperion). Jim is frequently quoted in articles about issues affecting senior citizens and has been featured in numerous high profile publications, including Time magazine, USA Today and The New York Times. In addition, he has made multiple appearances on CNBC, CNN, Retirement Living Television and national public television.
Social Security statement at SSA. gov/myaccount. And to get an estimate of your ex’s benefits, call Social Security at 800-772-1213. You’ll need his Social Security Number to get it. Divorced Survivor You also need to know that if your ex-spouse dies, and you were married for 10 or more years, you become eligible for divorced survivor benefits, which is worth up to 100 percent of what your ex-spouse was due. Survivor’s benefits are available to divorced spouses as early as age 60 (50 if you’re disabled). But, if you remarry before 60 you become ineligible unless the marriage ends. Remarrying after age 60 will not affect your eligibility. Also note that if you are receiving divorced spouses benefits when you ex-spouse dies, you will automatically be switched over to the higher paying survivor benefit. Switching Strategies Being divorced also offers a switching strategy that can help boost your benefits if you were born on or before Jan. 1, 1954. Here’s how it works. If you worked and are eligible for benefits on your own earnings record, you could
file a “restricted application” with Social Security at age 66 to collect a divorced spousal benefit, which is half of what your ex gets. Then, once you reach 70, you stop receiving the ex-spousal benefit and switch to your own benefit, which will be 32 percent higher than it would have been at your full retirement age. Unfortunately, as a result of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, this option is not available if your birthday is Jan. 2, 1954 or later. Divorced widows (and widowers) also have switching options regardless of your birthday. If, for example, you are currently collecting Social Security retirement benefits on your own record, and your ex-spouse dies, you can switch to survivor’s benefits if the payment is larger. Or, if you’re collecting survivor’s benefits, you can switch to your own retirement benefits – between 62 and 70 – if it offers a larger payment. For more information visit SSA. gov/planners/retire/divspouse.html, or call 800-772-1213. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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TOWN & COUNTRY
government HALLFORD TO RUN FOR COUNTY COURT #1
The race for retiring County Court at Law #1 Judge Suzanne Brooks’ bench is on the 2018 Republican primary ballot. Round Rock attorney Brandy Hallford will be on that ballot and has been walking in the community since early September to get the word out. CC#1 hears criminal and Child Protective Service (CPS) cases and, with a total of 21 years in practice as a prosecutor, division chief, and private practice defense and CPS attorney, Hallford believes she is the right person for the job. “This court handles half of the CPS cases in Williamson County,” Hallford says. “I am running for judge in this court because I have dedicated my legal career to helping children and I have spent many years on both sides of the table. I learned a great deal from Judge Brooks about how this court makes a huge difference in kids’ lives. The judge must understand the dynamics and interplay of case law, the foster system and residential treatment to make decisions in the best interest and
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for the safety of children.” Hallford ran for judge of County Court at Law #2 last year and received a great deal of support from family, friends and community members to run again for the open seat. She has received endorsements from, among many others, Sen Charles Schwertner, Sheriff Robert Chody, 11 first response elected officials and associations, Georgetown Mayor Dale Ross and many other elected city and county officials and community leaders. Not only does she focus on the welfare of the young in her professional career, she is a member of Kiwanis and the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center; both of which focus on child issues. “This is who I am. My father taught me a long time ago that if you are going to make decisions about the lives of others, you need to spend time in the trenches to understand the impact you will have. I want to do more than the hard work in the courtroom. I want to be a part of the positive and proactive work in the community as well.” CPS cases require specific knowledge of the law. The court takes into account the vulnerability of child litigants and acts as an advocate for their rights. Hallford says, “Being a judge is a natural progression of the experience I have as a litigating attorney
and understanding I’ve gained working on CPS cases. I feel very ready to take on that responsibility and pass on what I’ve. This job also takes into account the need for compassion and empathy so I work hard in and out of the courtroom to understand the circumstances of the people I am working for. CPS can be extreme and decisions can sometimes be about life and death. I believe, as a Judge, I have the knowledge and experience to make a difference in a new way.”
Ms. Hallford may knock on your door some weekend as she remains committed to voter outreach and the hard work that is still ahead. She and her husband Jerry have lived and raised four kids in Williamson County over the last 20 years. “The support I have received is humbling, but what I care about most is the children and that they always receive the best care and treatment in a safe place.”
Mayor and Sheriff Headline Fundraiser for Judge Gravell
A packed house; guests, business owners and dignitaries, joined Georgetown Mayor Dale Ross and Sheriff Robert Chody Nov. 7 at the home of developer Jimmy Jacobs to talk about the greatness and future of Williamson County with Judge Bill Gravell. Judge Gravell has made a final decision about the 2018 primary race and he will make an announcement Dec. 2 at high noon on the Historic Courthouse steps. C i ty I n si d e rTX .com
November 2017
Town & Country
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Pokey's Current Listings Property Address 189 Trail Rider WAY 121 Verbena DR 103 Monument Hill TRL 600 Salado Creek DR 157 Dan Moody TRL 133 Trail Rider WAY 110 Sunflower ST 136 Whispering Wind DR 103 Farm Hill DR 100 Medina Creek CV 102 Lost Peak PATH 105 Yucca CV 412 Palmetto DR 116 Yukon TER 201 San Antonio RD 108 Hogan Bluff CT 615 Breezeway LN 127 Fox Home LN 410 Pipe Creek LN
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Floor Plan Lavaca Angelina Gray Myst Gray Myst Medina Medina Medina Cypress Magnolia Abbeyville Vernon Hill Trinity DeVaca Lexington Devaca Martin Ray LaSalle Cortez Morningside Lane
GC = Golf Course, HC = Hill Country, GB = Green Belt, P = Privacy
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GC, GB GB
GB, HC GB HC, P GB, P GB, HC GB, HC
GB, HC GB, HC GB, HC
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