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Shriners Shine In Sun City A Fond Farewell To Dick Anderson Woodworkers Craft Christmas Joy The Evolution of the Christmas Tree Holiday Trivia â&#x20AC;˘ Club News & Photos

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WHY TODAY IS ALWAYS THE BEST DAY After getting to know so many Sun City residents over these last months, I’m starting to feel like I have more than a few surrogate parents and grandparents, and the nostalgia of this holiday season has made me want to share a personal story from my own family. I was raised in the 70’s and 80’s by a single mom, and as is fairly typical for my generation, holidays were split between my mom’s family and my dad’s family. As I got older, I realized that it seemed I always spent the “day of” a holiday with my Dad and his family, while celebrating earlier or later with mom. When I mentioned this, she explained that she was more than happy to let my dad enjoy special days of the year with me because she got to spend the rest of the days with me, so, to her, “the day didn’t matter,” it was the spirit of family that counted. As I came into marriage and motherhood in my own life, I found myself

living across the country from my family. Holidays were even harder to coordinate considering the cost of travel and adding in in-laws as well, so I was always thankful when I would call my mom on Christmas Day, and she would remind me, “the day doesn’t matter.” I knew she loved me and missed me, and would be more than ready to celebrate whenever we could get together. Every year after my son was born I made my mom a calendar with pictures of him for every month, and no matter how much money we spent on ‘things’, this was always her favorite gift. One particular year, in all the holiday chaos, December 23 arrived and I realized I hadn’t yet mailed my mom’s calendar. I raced over to the UPS store in a panic to see how quickly I could get it to her. My husband and I stood in the store debating between expensive and quick, or affordable and a few days after Christmas. Always the frugal one in the family, I kept arguing for cheap and slow, reminding him, “The day doesn’t matter…” For once, his insistence won out, and I finally agreed to pay to have it shipped overnight with arrival scheduled for Christmas Eve. Quickly we slipped the calendar and a tiny card signed by my eight-year old

into the envelope, and went on with our holiday tasks. Christmas Day came and went as always, but on December 26th, the phone rang around noon. The number was from my hometown, and I answered expecting a belated holiday greeting from a childhood friend. Instead the voice on the other end of the line informed me that my mom had suddenly passed away from a heart attack and we needed to come at once to make arrangements.

giving her time to enjoy it, and me one last opportunity to let her know how much I loved her. In that moment, I knew she was right; the day doesn’t matter, because there’s never a better day to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you than today. Merry Christmas from the Payne family to yours! Cathy Payne, Managing Editor CPayne@CityInsiderTX.com

Mom lived alone, so opening the door to her house the next day was surreal. Everything indicated that she had just run to the store for a few minutes and would surely be coming back momentarily. It was a life freezeframed. As I took it all in, my gaze stopped on her coffee table. There was the calendar, open to the smiling face of her precious, only grandchild, as if she had been enjoying a few minutes with him just before she left that final time. Just a few feet above it was the tiny card with his scratchy penmanship proudly displayed on the very center of the mantle; the prized centerpiece in a menagerie of sparkly, shiny Christmas cards.

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Jesse & Grandma enjoying a rare Christmas together.

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CITY

CONTENTS 4

Shriners Shine in Sun City

Sharing the Will Sharing The Season

Jimmy Daniels: First Pitch For Vet’s Day Game

Singers Choir Director Looks Back on 10 Years

SKIFF Shares the Joy of Fishing

Woodworkers Craft Christmas Joy

Wisdom From the Rearview Mirror

10 Questions: Getting To Know Your Neighbors

Mayor’s Update

The Past Is Present with the Williamson Museum

The Evolution of the Christmas Tree

Crossword & Sudoku

Food For Thought: Resident Restaurant Review

STAFF Managing Editor/Lifestyles: Cathy Payne Writers: Ann Marie Ludlow, Conner Joyce Guest Columnists: Mayor Dale Ross, Mickie Ross, Sharon Patterson

Info@CityInsiderTX.com P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537 To Advertise in City Insider, call a sales exec at 512-746-4545 Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

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Shriners Shine in Sun City

Holiday Lights Help Bring Hope & Healing By Cathy Payne For nearly a century, the Shriners International organization has been known for their support of sick and hurting children in need. Today, as the world’s largest philanthropic organization, their benevolence projects fund 22 Shriners Hospitals for Children world-wide to the tune of nearly $2 million per day. Founded in 1922 to help combat polio, Shriners Hospitals for Children treat children up to age 18 with no expectation of reimbursement for the cost of treatment or care. Locally, Texas is the home of two Shiners Hospitals for Children; the Houston location treats orthopedic and spinal cord injuries and/or birth defects, as well as cleft lip and palate surgery and reconstruction, while the Galveston location is the world renowned center for burn care and recovery. With growing numbers of children in need of treatment, the Sun City Shrine Club, a unit of the larger Ben Hur Shrine in Austin, is doing their best to do their part, while bringing holiday cheer to their own backyard as well. The club of 50 members established in 2003 is the brains, heart, and even some of the brawn behind the holiday lights and decorations that spring up (almost miraculously) overnight on the Visitor Center, along the Williams Dr. and 195 entrances to Sun City, as well as on several of the bridges within the community. Along 4 | DECEMBER 2015

with other philanthropic fund-raising throughout the year, the Sun City Shrine Club uses the decorating project, which started in 2005, as a festive way to raise funds for the Shiners Hospitals for Children locations in Texas. By way of four donation boxes placed throughout the Sun City community, the club typically raises between $6,000 and $8,000 each year, according to 2016 club president-elect Tom Hauss. The light project itself is a labor of love and the result of a coordinated effort of about 25 club members and several of their wives, led by Bob Tolley, Chairman of the Christmas Lighting Program. Tolley points all the kudos to former Sun City resident and Shriner Bob Campbell who did all the original design and engineering work, bringing ever-more detailed and updated schematics to the project every year. Lest anyone think there is anything haphazard about putting up the several thousand lights each year, Tolley recounts the change-over from traditional incandescent bulbs to safer, more energy efficient LED bulbs several years ago, noting that each bulb had to be replaced individually and in the proper color pattern. Tolley and Hauss also praise the Sun City Community Association, and Director Jim Romine, for the CA’s financial underwriting of the project which enables 100% of the donation box proceeds to go the philanthropic efforts of the club, and directly to the Shriners Hospitals for Children’s Texas locations. Additionally, for the last several years, Suddenlink and The Christmas Light Pros have donated the equipment and man-power to install the lights on the Visitor Center.

Like a precisely coordinated dance, installation day takes place the Monday after Thanksgiving with club members’ ladies fluffing wreaths and men stringing lights along the fences and bridges. The pinnacle, both liter-

ally and figuratively, of the decorating takes place around the Visitor Center with the arrival of Suddenlink’s bucket truck. This donated assistance from the professionals in reaching the high spots is “safer than having old guys on ladders,” quips Tolley, and The Christmas Light Pros volunteer their expertise “on the low spots, from the gutters down.” Humor aside, Hauss and Tolley applaud the assistance of both companies, and say their efforts are integral to the success of the project.

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For anyone who appreciates the festive luminescence in Sun City, or just wants to help a child during this holiday season, Sun City Shrine Club Holiday Lights donation boxes are located at: the Member Services Office (2 Texas Drive); at each fitness center (Texas Dr. and Cowen Creek); and at Wriggley’s Pub. Donations are secure, and collected from the boxes regularly. Donations can also be mailed to: Shriners Light Collection, 2 Texas Dr., Georgetown, TX 78633. All checks should be made payable to: Shriners Hospitals for Children. CPayne@CityInsiderTX.com

Left: Donna Ferreri fluffs a wreath for the fence.

Below: Stan Brandenburg, Lynn Duby & Larry Sten install the lighted Christmas tree at the Williams Dr. entrance.

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Left: 2016 President-elect Tom Hauss and Christmas Lighting Program Chairman Bob Tolley.

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City Insider Volunteer and Veteran extraordinaire Will Williams of Round Rock has found another way to give back to veterans and Central Texas this year. He recently founded “Share the Will” with friend Dawn Douglas and is partnering with Heroes Night Out and Austin Jeep People to adopt at least 50 military families for Christmas. The foundation has already been busy, having just finished Operation Food Drop for Thanksgiving—a coordinated effort to deliver food to homeless people in Round Rock and Rt 183 areas. Heroes Night Out prepared the food, and Austin Jeeps delivered to the camps and under bridges. Last year Project Christmas at St. William Catholic Church in Round Rock matched needy families with sponsors but this year Fort Hood was not able to get the names early enough. So Dawn and Will got right to work and are looking for sponsor families themselves. Family names are being provided by the local VFW, Heroes Night Out and churches in Killeen. As well they are reaching out to all of Williamson County for help, specifically Sun City and Georgetown.

Share the Will Sharing the Season:

Adopt a Military Family by Dec.16 By Ann Marie Ludlow Recipients are all active duty military at Fort Hood and sponsors may choose a family with one or a specific number of children. “Our vision is that every child will have at least one gift under the tree, for perhaps a $50 limit per child, and also that our adopters provide non-perishable food items for Thanksgiving.” Douglas says benefactors may spend as much as they choose, but they hope people will meet the minimums.

the Will and Dawn wants sponsors to call her directly (512-779-6786) to sign up to help one of the families. Share the Will and Austin Jeep people will deliver the gifts and food on December 20 at Fort Hood so applications need to be in before December 16. Dawn will arrange to pick up the gifts from donor homes prior to the delivery. The delivery will be a party in itself. The Austin Jeep People usually put on a show, Douglas says. “We create kind of a parade when we go up there. Plus, Jeeps are fun to watch—they usually crawl on top of each other and the kids just love it! Right now our message is that no family will be turned away so while we hope to find 50 sponsors, we’d love to have more!”

Aludlow@CityInsiderTX.com

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Jimmy Daniels: 1st Pitch for Vets’ Day Game By Ann Marie Ludlow World War II veteran Jimmy Daniels got a police escort and a limo to Austin to throw out the first pitch in the Sun City Softball Club vs. UT Women’s Softball game November 11. This is the second annual slow-pitch event that mixes players from the co-ed Sun City club and the collegiate athletes—“Stars” against “Stripes”—and brings the college team’s fall season to a close. It takes place on Veterans’ Day at McCombs Field to honor servicemen and women for all they do, and is covered live on Longhorn

Network television. Wife Betty Daniels says the invite came up kind of sudden but they are very excited about it— perhaps the ride more so than the game; “When all our neighbors see this, they are going to flip.” Veteran supporter Betty Schleder chose Jimmy for the honor “because he’s one of my favorites. He’s so humble and didn’t even want to do it right away, but he called later and said, ‘I hated to say no to you,’ so Jimmy is our man and he’s being treated royally all the way.” Jimmy was born in West, Texas in 1926. He received a Purple Heart while with the Marine First Air Wing as a guard and heavy equipment operator. He was stationed in New Guinea and Mindanao, Philippines. He served in Tsingtao and Peking after Left: Jimmy Daniels and his wife of 67 years, Betty ride in style in one of Cook-Walden’s latest Cadillac limos.

the war and was discharged as a Corporal in San Francisco in 1946. He majored in Art at Baylor University, operated a juvenile probation department in Harlingen, TX, and also worked for the Federal Bureau of Narcotics in San Antonio, which later became the DEA. Although he served the nation in 12 countries, he says, “Today is one of the brightest highlights of my life, and I will be rooting for both teams!” Round Rock Motor Escorts provided two motorcycle officers to lead the motorcade, and Kevin Hull of Cook-Walden was more than happy to help with Jimmy’s big day. Hull provided Cook-Walden’s newest Cadillac limousine; brand new and only driven three times so far. “We are continually looking for ways to support veterans and be involved in the community. Our heart at Cook-Walden is to support the veterans in any way that we can. It’s just a small thing we can do to make people feel special.”

Final score: Stars 9; Stripes 7.

Below: Jimmy and Betty and one the of the escort vehicles from Round Rock Motor Escorts.

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Singers Choir Director Looks Back on 10 Years By Ann Marie Ludlow Sun City Singers Choir Director Dick Anderson took center stage one last time at this year’s Christmas concert December 2 and 3. After ten years as director, he is ready to retire—as much as anyone in Sun City ever really retires—and allow a new director to take over the Tuesday night group. Anderson moved to Sun City 13 years ago, but has been a choir director from the time he left the Army in 1954 to his first retirement in 1993. Among his credits, he worked as an entertainer at a youth camp, and was also the co-host of a music television program in Milwaukee in the 1980s. With all that musical experience, he was a natural as a nominee when the previous director stepped down

rather suddenly before the group’s spring concert in 2005. A member of the choir board knew about his background, suggested Anderson step in, and the rest was history. “It’s been a wonderful ten years,” he says. “People have been very, very nice and faithful to work with. The group is open to all residents of Sun City, so while we don’t always have top drawer talent, we have a great nucleus, and people

come to learn from those around them and just have fun.” With approximately 45 concerts to his credit, Anderson says the concert that stands out in his mind is always “the next one.” The group performs at Christmas, annually in the Spring, and every July 4th. He is very proud of the library they have acquired over the years and the group usually mixes traditional favorites with new or chal-

lenging pieces. “We always have new members, so we will always teach the favorites, plus some composers we really enjoy singing. Audiences love variety and complexity, and since we know there are some folks who never miss a concert, we do our best to provide some pretty jazzy pieces.” He says the Christmas selections this year are mostly traditional hymns about the birth of the baby Jesus

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because he believes the best choral music has always come from religious backgrounds, but they have included some secular chestnuts like It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas. They also have a stand-by Irish Blessing song that they use when they get so many encores they use up all their planned pieces!

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Ticket sales are usually brisk for the shows and Anderson says the money goes toward new music or to pay musicians and sound technicians. “The singers, accompanists and director do not get paid; in fact they all pay dues to the club. But we enjoy doing special things as a group. We purchased a piano for the ballroom and sponsored a WWII Veteran to take part in an Honor Flight.” Mr. Anderson says he’s not retiring entirely from music, but at a young 86 years old, he is pleased to turn over the weekly duties to a very capable member of the group, Georgia Parmalee. She was a teacher and has directed church choirs for many years. “I wondered on and off how I might step away, and a tenth anniversary concert seemed like a good time. Tuesday night was a special night and I have tried to make it fun, but you know when it’s time.” He has enjoyed being with faithful people who simply love what they do. “I have always said that what you do should express your faith and I’ve tried to reflect that in my music and share it with the choir. It’s been a great ten years of special friendships and close ties.” Aludlow@CityInsiderTX.com

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA

Although many believe the Friday after Thanksgiving is the busiest shopping day of the year, it is not. It is the fifth to tenth busiest day. The Friday and Saturday before Christmas are the two busiest shopping days of the year.

DECEMBER 2015 | 9

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SKIFF Shares The Joy of Fishing With Soliders’ Kids By Ann Marie Ludlow Many Americans support our veterans with their gratitude, attention, financial gifts, or special events. But what about the ones who struggle right along with them? While it is tougher for a soldier to handle the battlefield than for the mom or kids to handle, say, crowded highways or bad grades, all are often stretched to the limits of their preparedness. Fortunately, there are some here at home who recognize these struggles and have gone out of their way to mitigate some of the stress of being a

military family left behind. The Austin Fly Fishers have created a program for children of active duty military, Soldiers Kids Involved in Fishing Fun (SKIFF). The group takes kids out for a whole day, provides poles, bait, safety and instruction to do a good turn for them and their parents.

working hard in Georgetown to help raise funds for the program. The club is also seeking vendors or corporate donors as well, and they have already received great visibility and support from the Sun City Hunting & Fishing Club and the WHO Ladies.

Bob Maindelle says the idea is to give kids a good idea of what a fishing trip should be. “Kids are going through a rough separation and moms are often asking for help. Being a single parent for months at a time can be a big stressor. As a pastor in Killeen, I immediately noticed the impact on children when their fathers are deployed. Grades dropped, they don’t get along with siblings, and moms come more frequently looking for guidance.” Maindelle says he wanted to provide those activities that he remembered doing with his dad; yardwork, repairs, fishing trips, and just be a male sounding board. The cost to sponsor one child is just $65, and Sun City residents Manual Peña (ManualFlyFish@aol. com) and Dave Hill (Flyfisher149@gmail.com) are

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Maindelle reports, “The SKIFF kids have landed 7200 fish—an average of 24 fish per kid on these trips. We are not just diddling around.” SKIFF wants the kids to really learn the sport and develop a love of the outdoors if it turns out that way. Peña says the trips are also open to children of deceased military because Maindelle has so much patience with kids and the parents left behind always appreciate the break.

is catching his or her first fish. When they sense life on the other end of that line, not knowing what is going to happen—and then it breaks the surface—it’s a great moment,” says Maindelle. Donate at AustinFlyFishers.com/ skiff.html

Kids start out early in the morning, fish all day, and as a bonus, the club takes photos and weaves them into a blog for every trip. Links are sent to the parents overseas, and photos are posted on Facebook so deployed moms and dads can share in the excitement and pride of a first fish. “Every time I launch the boat is a new day on the water with a kid who

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Hunting & Fishing Club Helps at Schwertner Farms By Ann Marie Ludlow

Aludlow@CityInsiderTX.com

Opposite page: Ryan Bolin boated the trip’s largest fish — this white bass that taped in at 14 1/8. Below: Jim Key (Center) of the Sun City Hunting & Fishing Club presents SKIFF’s Manual Peña and Dave Hill with a donation.

The Sun City Hunting & Fishing club was recently called upon to provide a valuable and neighborly service while doing what they love to do. Capitol Land and Livestock asked for the hunters’ assistance with predator control and, as General Manager Tom Madden reports, “They responded well and quickly to help control the coyote population on the Schwertner farms.” Due to the growth in population and urban encroachment, all wildlife—predators and prey alike—are forced into wider areas to look for new food sources. Predator animals, while sometimes a nuisance, in greater numbers can become more aggressive and even threatening. “They do not threaten cattle because of their size,” Madden says, “But they are a danger to pets and smaller livestock like sheep. They also carry a danger of rabies. Coyotes are generally afraid of

humans, but when you’re out in the country at dusk and you hear that howl, even a seasoned hunter gets a little rise in the hairs on his neck.” “The Hunting & Fishing Club members have always been friends of the Schwertner farm,” he continued, “It was great to be able to call on them for help in a controlled hunt for population health. It was a great help to us, but we also knew they would appreciate the opportunity to put their skills to use.” The Club presented a trophy to Mr. Madden to commemorate the partnership between the two groups. Each helps the other throughout the year with fundraisers and other charity efforts, and Georgetown is fortunate to have such a trust between Sun City’s largest social group and Texas’ largest livestock dealer. Aludlow@CityInsiderTX.com

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Sun City Hunting & Fishing Club members Bernie Long and John Wilson present Tom Madden (center) with a trophy from their predator control efforts at Schwertner farms. © Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC, 2015. All rights reserved.

DECEMBER 2015 | 11

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Santa’s Elves in Sun City? Woo By Cathy Payne Most people think Santa’s toy shop is located at the North Pole, and that his toy-making helpers are little guys with pointy ears and bells on their shoes; but a trip to the Sun City wood shop in mid-November will make you wonder if Santa has migrated south with the birds, and his elves are a bit taller than expected. For the last fifteen years, the Sun City Woodworkers Club has created hundreds of hand-made, heirloom-quality toys for charitable organizations around Georgetown and Texas. On November 18, club members presented carefully packed boxes containing 1400 toys to representatives from The Caring Place, Georgetown Police Department’s Blue Santa, Shriners Hospitals for Children, and the Warrior and Family Support Center at the Fort Sam Houston Burn Center. The year-long Toys for Tots program is a coordinated effort of about 100 of the club’s more than 500 members who hand-craft each toy. Although an assembly-line method would be more efficient, the club favors a more handson style which gives the mission a deeper meaning for members. “This project is done in a craft or hobby style, one piece at a time from start to finish,” explains club president Jane Bonk. “Besides the opportunity to give back to the community, it builds camaraderie among members and offers them a chance to refine their skills. Plus, after being part of the club for a few years, most members need an outlet for their creations; by that time family and friends start to run the other direction when you offer them a wooden gift,” Bonk adds with an elfish wink. The Toys for Tots program was started in 2000 by founding club member and Shriner, Keith Johnson who is also a retired police officer. Johnson felt there would be a good fit between the club’s abilities and the needs of the patients at the Shriners Hospitals for

12 | DECEMBER 2015

Children. Over the years the Woodworkers Club has added other local organizations close to members’ hearts as recipients. “Many of our members are veterans or volunteer at The Caring Place, so it’s a good match that makes sense,” says 2015 Toys for Tots Program Coordinator Rosie Wood. The wood for the project is donated by Pulte, and the Community Association selects the recipients based on the club’s recommendations. All the toys are wooden with wheels, and come in the form of animals, dinosaurs, and all manner of vehicles. They are then finished with certified childsafe food-grade mineral oil, so they are safe for the youngest ones who are just as likely to explore the world with their mouths as their hands. Woodworking in Sun City doesn’t stop after Christmas, however. After the elf hats are put away, the state-of the-art wood shop literally buzzes with activity. Membership is open to anyone, and Bonk says that participants range from people with no experience

“who always wanted to try woodworking but never had the opportunity” to master woodworkers who have their own shops. Bonk, a life-long woodworker who has been a club member for five years says she is still impressed by the range of equipment and expertise available at the shop. “It is so much greater than anything I’ve ever experienced; I wouldn’t even consider myself a woodworker until I walked in this shop.” Indeed, the shop boasts a quantity and variety of industrial grade equipment that would make a master woodworker giddy, including a self-contained vacuum system that keeps things virtually dust-free. Even better, membership includes time with a mentor (many of whom are master woodworkers) who takes new members through the shop and teaches them how to use every machine. A required orientation and safety course, and on site safety monitors help maintain the club’s stellar safety record. Club members can buy the wood from the shop at cost for their personal projects, and can take advantage of

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odworkers Craft Christmas Joy quarterly classes to learn new or advanced skills. Of course, other members are often the best teachers, and Bonk says “there is someone who knows how to do anything you want to learn,” and that members are always ready and willing to help one another. Membership is $40 for the first year, and then $25 annually for returning members. The Sun City wood shop, located at 1303 Sun City Blvd. is open Monday – Friday 8:30 – 4:30, and Saturdays 8:30-12:30.

CPayne@CityInsiderTX.com

Did you know? Woodworking Club members made all the shelves, cabinets and displays in the library, as well as those in the both gyms, and the wooden podium at Legacy Hills Grille.

Clockwise from Lower Left: George Ripple & Rosie Wood pack boxes for this year’s Toys for Tots distribution; Club president Jane Bonk shows one of her favorite toys; Al Shapiro, Nancy Rosen and Bruce Bateman work under the watchful eye of safety monitor Bob Baer; Andy Perkins & Charlie Byers in creative mode; Darlene Moseley coordinates toy distribution for the Warrior and Family Support Center at the Fort Sam Houston Burn Center; members can take classes to learn to make these intricate wooden “gift” boxes; Bob Bartz with some of the 1400 toys the club made this year. DECEMBER 2015 | 13

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Wisdom

Pawpaw’s Rich By Sharon L. Patterson It was one of those rare naturally teachable moments, not just for our grandson, but for our entire family. We were all in the kitchen preparing to serve lunch. Both our daughter-in-laws were busy doing all the little things it takes to get our five grandchildren ready to sit down to eat Christmas lunch. The grandchildren range in age from 15 months to 13 years, so that means preparing everything from sippy cups to picky eaters’ requests for what has not been prepared. Pizza is always a favorite request though I explained that would not be on today’s menu. I always decorate my table early in December for a breakfast I have for my close friends, a tradition for the past fifteen years. Following the breakfast, I replace the name cards with the ones for each member of the family and leave everything decorated until our Christmas dinner together. I love making everyone feel special, so I put out the best china and crystal. It is a great contrast to the paper plates and plastic cups we normally put out when serving one of our hurried food fests. Our oldest son helped the little ones find their

From the rearview mirror marked places. It was quite a noisy affair with cousins who had not seen each other in a few months all talking at the same time. I had my head in the fridge, getting out some milk, when I heard, “We want food, we want food!” I looked up to find four of the youngest ones with fork and knife in hand beating them up and down on the decorated table. Our son began gathering the crystal glasses and the knives and forks, saying, “I don’t think we better leave these on the table!” Suddenly our seven year old grandson Joshua yells out, “Pawpaw, you and Grannah are rich!” We all stopped what we were doing at the declaration. “Why do you say that?” my husband asked. “Because Pawpaw, you and Grannah have gold forks

and spoons. You must be rich!” Once we had our round of laughter, Pawpaw seized the moment to tell him that the tableware was only plated, not real gold. Then he added, “Joshua, you are right, Pawpaw and Grannah are rich, not because we have gold forks and spoons, but because we have great gifts from God…an incredible family and you five wonderful grandchildren. We replaced the gold flatware and china with paper plates and plastic cups. Then, we clasped hands, and thanked God for how truly rich in blessings we are. 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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questions Meet Ed Lux

1 Where did you grow up? Schulenburg, Texas

How did you celebrate Christmas as a child?

My mother did the traditional German Christmas by decorating the tree and placing all the presents under it on Christmas Eve, and then we celebrated Christmas the next morning. My mother decorated the tree with old family ornaments as well as fresh fruit, candy canes and Hershey candy bars.

3 What was your first job?

When I was a freshman I worked part time along side my dad at the local Texaco Station washing cars for 25 cents/hour. I also worked as an apprentice printer’s helper for my Uncle Gifford McMillen in his print shop. I earned 50 cents/hour feeding a printing press that printed one sheet at a time.

First Car?

When I graduated from Texas A&M in 1960 with an officers commission in the United States Air Force I purchased a used 1957 Oldsmobile 98 four door Hardtop Sedan.

5 What was your job/career?

I was an Air Force pilot flying the C-124 Globemaster and then the C-141 Starlifter all over the world carrying cargo, combat troops, and relief supplies for the United Nations in support of countries experiencing disasters. I accepted a position with Delta Airlines in 1970 and flew numerous aircraft retiring in 1998 as an international B-767ER Captain.

were you when President 6 Where Kennedy was shot? I had just returned from a three month tour in Germany and was walking out of my Squadron’s Operations Building when I heard the announcement on the radio that President Kennedy was shot. Our entire Troop Carrier Wing was immediately placed on the highest DEFCON status indicating that war was imminent. “rule of thumb” do you 7 What live by? Be true to yourself, always respect others, and treat everyone in the same manner you would like to be treated. was the first movie you 8 What saw in a theater? Every Saturday we went to the Cozy Theater in Schulenburg for the afternoon matinee. Cost us 14 cents plus 5 cents for a bag of popcorn or

City Insider Ed and his wife of 53 years, Patty, moved to Sun City in 1998 after he retired from Delta Airlines. The Luxes have been part of the Ballroom Dance Club, Ladies and Men’s golf groups, Horticulture Club, Hunting and Fishing Club and the Western Dance group. Ed is a past Grand Knight of the local Knights of Columbus, as well as past President of the Hunting and Fishing Club. They have have two sons and five grandsons. Ed and Patty still love playing golf, dancing, traveling and socializing with their friends and neighbors. 10 cents for a whole box. The movies were usually westerns or cowboy movies starring Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, or some other western hero. I remember the serials that preceded every movie and looked forward to the continuing saga of Tarzan or Nyoka, the Jungle Woman. do you consider the most 9 What significant historical event that has occurred during your life time?

WWII and the subsequent postwar years. I distinctly remember ration stamps, saving tin foil by stripping foil from chewing gum wrappers to be rolled into tin foil balls that were donated towards the war effort. is your favorite part about 10 What living in Sun City? We have more close friends and neighbors now than we ever had anywhere. The social atmosphere along with the innumerable activities one can participate in make life here like living in a resort.

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512.746.4111 Seeds of Strength Accepting Grant Applications Seeds of Strength, a women’s giving circle in Georgetown, is now accepting grant applications for 2016. The deadline for all applications is Jan 15. Organizations serving clients in the GISD attendance area, are incorporated in the State of Texas, and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code, are eligible for funding. Areas of interest include the arts and culture; health and human services; children, youth and families; education; the environment; and community development. The maximum grant request is $25,000, and the minimum request is $5000. In 2015, nine grants totaling $149,000 were awarded. Additional information, as well as grant applications, can be found on the SoS website: www.seedsofstrength.org. DECEMBER 2015 | 15

City Insider

MAYOR’S UPDATE

Georgetown: The Most Caring & Giving City In Texas By Mayor Dale Ross Georgetown is currently the second fastest growing city in the U.S., and the reasons for this growth are many and varied. In my view, the amazing people in our community is the key driver in making our town special, and the reason we are so attractive for businesses and people looking to relocate here. As the largest neighborhood in Georgetown, Sun City residents are vital to the quality of life in our city since they account for such a large portion of the people who give their time, talent and treasure to all of the wonderful non-profit organizations in our community. Without the support of Sun City residents and their generosity, the non-profits in Georgetown would not be able to provide the needed level of services to those in our city who are in need. Movato Real Estate named Georgetown the most caring and giving city in Texas, and fourth in the U.S. for small cities with populations between 50,000 and 60,000. Therefore, as we enter the season to reflect upon our blessings and to consider the reasons we give thanks, I have developed a list

Services for Seniors, Veterans & Disabled Brookwood in Georgetown Vocational (BIG) provides scholarships for adults with functional disabilities who no longer receive services from the public schools to participate in high quality programs that will provide an educational environment that creates meaningful jobs, builds a sense of belonging and promotes dignity and respect for adults with special needs. Faith in Action Georgetown provides volunteer driver recruitment and training programs to ensure providing timely, reliable transportation to help seniors remain independent and improve their quality of life. Ride on Center for Kids (R.O.C.K.) provides equine-assisted therapies and activities to children, adults and veterans with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities. R.O.C.K.’s mission is to improve indepen-

16 | DECEMBER 2015

could also use your talent and time. In addition, we have the Chisholm Trail Foundation which helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals by being a resource bridge between them and area non-profit organizations. We also have Seeds of Strength, a women’s organization, that formed a giving circle which allows members to combine their dollars in a shared fund and collectively decide where to give the money in our community through a voting process. Mayor Dale Ross and First Lady Mickie Ross at 2015 fundraiser for R.O.C.K. of non-profit organizations in our city that change lives every day. If you are looking for an opportunity to volunteer, below is a sample of some great organizations that could use your help. We also have service organizations in Georgetown, which are different than non-profits, such as Sertoma, Sun City and Downtown Kiwanis, Sun City and Sun Rise Rotary that

dence and life skills in partnership with the horse. Senior Center at Stonehaven provides services to meet the health, educational, social, recreational and creative needs of the senior citizen population of Georgetown area. Family Eldercare provides enhanced care coordination in partnership with community-based organizations to support older adults as they age in place.

Services for Families Williamson Burnet Counties Opportunities (WBCO) provides resources and opportunities to thousands of children, adults, and seniors annually, to realize educational growth, economic self-sufficiency, and improved quality of life (Meals on Wheels and Head Start) Georgetown Caring Place serves as a central, coordinated safety net location to help families in crisis who live in Georgetown and

I apologize in advance if I have omitted any Georgetown non-profit or service organization. I give my heartfelt thanks to all of the non-profits and service organizations who make Georgetown this special place we call home. Perhaps with just a little more giving we all can make Georgetown not only the most giving and caring city in Texas but in the entire United States! Wishing you and your family all the best during the holidays and I hope you and your loved ones have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

provide basic needs that include, but are not limited to, food, shelter, clothing, household items, financial assistance for utility bills, rent or mortgage payments, and employment assistance.

groups, supportive housing and community education, and crisis support services. Annunciation Maternity Home provides safe, stable housing and basic needs assistance and case management to gain access to medical and social services.

Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, Inc. provides affordable homeownership and exterior repair opportunities for low-income families in Georgetown that include increasing outreach and awareness to low-income families in need of affordable home ownership and repair opportunities in Georgetown.

Samaritan Center provides fee assistance (treatment scholarships) for uninsured and underinsured children, adults, families, and veterans who are suffering but cannot afford the cost of mental health care.

Lone Star Circle of Care provides comprehensive primary and preventive health care services for residents of Georgetown who are uninsured and underserved, regardless of patients’ insurance status or ability to pay. Williamson County Crisis Center dba Hope Alliance provides services to survivors of family violence, sexual assault, child abuse, including emergency shelter, crisis intervention, legal advocacy, counseling, support

Lifesteps Council on Alcohol and Drugs provides prevention services, information on substance abuse, and mobilizing the community to address identified substance abuse related problems. Goodwill Industries of Central Texas provides basic needs support for Goodwill clients who have a barrier to employment.

Services for Youth Backpack Buddies provides for the purchase of nutritional, non-perishable food for insecure Kindergarten through Grade 8 students, as identified by duly qualified G.I.S.D. employees or agents, in G.I.S.D. The Boys and Girls Club of Georgetown provides after school youth programs during the school year and full day youth programs during the summer that provide safe places for children and youth in the community by providing recreationally and educationally based programs. Boy Scouts of America, Capital Area Council, San Gabriel District, Pack 2935 provides services to enhance the Scoutreach program in cooperation with the YMCA that is offered in all Georgetown Elementary Schools and the Boys and Girls Club with programming to include an emphasis on Leadership Development. CASA of Williamson County provides trained, court-appointed volunteers who advocate for the best interest of abused or neglected children in court and on their journey to a safe, permanent home. Girls Empowerment Network (GEN) provides a 180 Program for girls who are entering the juvenile justice system or who are at risk for entering the system with goals to decrease rates of juvenile delinquency and increase in-school functioning, critical thinking skills, and self- sufficiency. The Georgetown Project provides youth development and youth activity programs for children, youth, and families in Georgetown through the Kid City Program (summer food and enrichment for economically disadvantaged students), ASAP (After School Action Program), and the NEST (provides assistance to homeless teens, including basic needs, supportive services, and overnight emergency/temporary shelter). Getsemani Community Center provides a place that preserves cultural resources and provides youth and adult programming, especially for Georgetown’s Hispanic Community, including, but not limited to Literacy Council Programming for GED, ESL, and Computer Classes, Summer Programming and cultural events. The Locker provides services to target at-risk population of Georgetown students to participate in Service Learning projects as outlined in the grant application that will integrate meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich learning experiences, teach civic responsibility, and

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strengthen communities, including the provision of necessities and also non-essential items to help at risk-students succeed by creating a sense of normalcy for every child. Assistance League of Georgetown Area provides appropriate school clothing and shoes to qualified students, identified by the Federal Free lunch program. Run Free Texas provides at-risk youth healthy ways to alternatively channel their energy and passion into activities that will result in a decrease in self-compromising behaviors. Georgetown Partners in Education is dedicated to strengthening the connections between our community and schools.

Arts & Culture The Williamson Museum offers free and exciting hands-on educational programs to the public through innovative exhibits, tours and outreach, as well the annual “Chisholm Trail Days” at San Gabriel Park and “Pioneer Day” at Old Settlers Park. Friends of the Library advocates, fundraises and provides critical support for the public library in Georgetown, Texas. Our membership sponsors educational programs and library enrichment activities. Georgetown Palace Theater enhances the quality of life in Georgetown and Williamson County by providing a venue for quality and affordable entertainment and educational opportunities in the performing arts Georgetown Symphony Society brings classical concerts to Georgetown to promote an appreciation of music to all ages.

Organizational Services for Non-Profits Williamson County Institute for Excellence in Non-Profits provides services to non-profit organizations serving Williamson County to learn and apply principles of organizational excellence to enhance their sustainability and capacity to serve their constituents. City of Georgetown Volunteer Opportunities: Convention & Visitors Bureau, Parks & Recreation, Park Rangers, Police Department, Blue Santa, Animal Shelter, Library, Boards & Commissions - for a complete list please view Georgetown’s award winning website at: https://government.georgetown. org/become-a-volunteer/

4909 Williams Dr. • Georgetown

512-868-0403 Happy Holidays ERA Colonial Real Estate, Inc.

Did you know? The Poinsettia was brought to the U.S. from Mexico in 1830’s by Joel R.Poinsett. He was the first Ambassador from the USA to Mexico in 1825. There is an old Mexican legend about how Poinsettias & Christmas come together, it goes like this:

There was once a poor Mexican girl called Pepita who had no present to give the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked to the chapel, sadly, her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her up. “Pepita,” he said, “I’m sure that even the smallest gift, given by someone who loves Him will make Jesus happy.” Pepita picked a small handful of weeds from the road side & made them into a small bouquet. She was embarrassed, but she remembered what Pedro said. As she placed the bouquet by the nativity scene, they suddenly burst into bright red flowers & everyone who saw them were sure they had seen a miracle. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the “Flores de Noche Buena” or “Flowers of the Holy Night”. The shape of the Poinsettia flower & leaves are sometimes thought as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem which led the Wise Men to Jesus. The red colored leaves symbolize the blood of Christ. The white leaves represent His purity. (information taken from the website; whychristmas.com) May you have peace and joy throughout your holiday season. Blessings to all, ERA Colonial Real Estate, Inc. Georgetown, TX

DECEMBER 2015 | 17

City Insider

niture and the Henderson’s Variety Store. The varied treasures found at Diva’s today surely rival anything that could be found here back in the good old days.

The Past Is Present By Mickie Ross

Shopping the Square – Then and Now Serving as the center of commerce for decades, the Georgetown Square has provided residents with a wide variety of stores to meet all their shopping needs. That tradition continues today, and a look back in time tells the story of that shopping legacy. From the town’s beginning in the late 1840s, the mercantile and dry goods stores surrounding the “public common” served the people of the newly formed county seat. Josiah

Taylor moved his family here, and by 1850 opened a store on the site of the present-day Lockett Building. The Taylor family operated the store until it was sold in the 1880s. When Mr. Lockett moved here to send his daughters to Southwestern University and bought the building, he remodeled it and built on the successes of the other dry goods businesses in that location. While enjoying lunch at Burger University, it is easy to imagine the hustle and bustle of the store during the holiday season. The Talbot Building next door was once home to Star Grocery and then Davidson Grocery. Stories abound of the penny candy that was available at Davidson’s – much like what you can find at Sweet Tooth Candy and Sweet Serendipity on Austin Avenue today. A visit to one of these shops is a great way to bring back memories of the past – and to create new ones for the future. The Craig Building was also dry goods before it became Davis Fur-

Traveling to Main Street, shoppers find the most recognizable building in downtown – the Masonic Lodge, built in 1900. Occupied today by Gumbo’s Restaurant, the building at one time housed a drug store and furniture store. It even served as the post office at one time – and advertisements in the early 1900s used the location of the building to give directions to their establishments. C. A. D. Clamp, a leading builder and developer of the community, built the buildings next door to showcase his carpentry and woodworking skills. While serving as Mayor from 1878 1880, he sold doors, caskets, looms and spinning wheels he built. He would surely be proud of the quality shops located in his building today – All Things Kids and Kenz Guitars. Shafer’s Saddlery (1870) is the oldest commercial building standing on the square today. It only served as a retail business for two years, but today has returned to its roots with the opening of Mikey V’s Hot Sauce Shop. Mikey V’s and neighboring The

Escape are favorites for anyone shopping for that special gift for that special person – or even for themselves. Records show that in 1851 Georgetown had twelve houses, one church and two whiskey stores. While we are missing the whiskey stores in downtown today, we have two wonderful wineries – Grape Creek Vineyards and Georgetown Winery. Enjoy a glass of wine inside while shopping the specialty merchandise in each of these businesses – and have a glass to go as you walk the rest of the square. The square’s south side had its own share of retail spaces in the past, but today’s shops offer something different for all ages. From handmade treasures at Handcrafts Unlimited to the art of Kathleen McElwaine and the clothing and accessories at Pink Poppy Boutique, visitors will be ready to sit down for a snack or cold drink at Roots after the shopping is done. The David Love building on Austin Avenue housed Mr. Love’s mercantile and dry goods until his death in 1892. The building later had a grocery and even a feed store before being restored in the early 1980s. It became a well-known gift store and today is the location of Camille’s clothing store.

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The business names may have changed over the years, but it’s obvious why Georgetown is the most beautiful square in Texas. Photos courtesy of the Williamson Museum.

From Richardson’s Book Store to Stone’s Photograph Gallery, Texas Bakery to Nook Confectionary the square has always been a special place to shop. This glimpse into the past helps the traditions come to life. There is no way to tell all of the stories from the past or to list all of the fabulous shops that make up the

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square today. And, the stories and shops located right off the square are just as fascinating and fun. Take the time to shop downtown this holiday season – you’ll discover more of what makes it the most beautiful town square in Texas.

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DECEMBER 2015 | 19

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1960s

1940s

1950s

1990s

1970s 20 | DECEMBER 2015

1980s

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CHRISTMAS TRIVIA Most of Santa’s reindeer have male-sounding names, such as Blitzen, Comet, and Cupid. However, male reindeer shed their antlers around Christmas, so the reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh are likely female . The first Christmas postage stamp was issued in the United States in 1962.

Answers on Page 22 & 23

President Teddy Roosevelt, an environmentalist, banned Christmas trees from the White House in 1901.

Aggie Moms Give Thanks By Giving Back The Williamson County A&M Mother’s Club held their 62nd annual Turkey Dinner fundraiser on Nov. 5th. Seventy-five Aggie moms cooked fifty-seven turkeys (plus 36 trays of dressing, potatoes, beans, rolls and 100 cakes) for a crowd of 1300. This 62-year old tradition raises scholarship funds for existing and future Aggies, and provides donations for numerous Texas A&M campus organizations. Pictured: Aggie Mom, Lori Ford and her mom, Aggie Grandma (& Sun City resident), Wilda Zippe. DECEMBER 2015 | 21

City Insider

Restaurant: Reviewers:

The Uptown Social John & Deanna Chenoweth

Several local restaurants have partnered with City Insider to give Sun City residents the opportunity to try their food and share their dining experience in our Food For Thought column.

How was the ambiance? Restaurant/bar setting with a combination of booths, tables, high-top tables and flat screen TVs on every wall, including a large projection TV in the private dining room. They also have a large, roof-top patio.

2 3

Describe the “type” of food offered on the menu. Pizza, appetizers and specialty sandwiches and a full-service bar.

4 6 7

Describe your meal. Did it meet your expectations? We both had different types of sandwiches that certainly exceeded expectations. The food was hot and fresh and very tasty with very generous portions. The house salad was large and fresh and the French fries were especially good (crisp, with special seasoning).

Would you dine there again and/ or recommend it to friends? We will return to check out some of the other interesting menu items.

7. What kind of clientele does this restaurant generally appeal to? The establishment is definitely a “bar scene” but all age groups were represented (20-somethings all the way to 60+). People were hanging-out at the bar as well as eating.

Is there anything about your experience that you’d like to share with others? If you plan to dine on Saturday afternoon, be prepared for a fairly loud and high-energy environment as the patrons enjoy college sports on TV. We expected this type of setting and conditions, so it was not a problem.

22 | DECEMBER 2015

Was the restaurant easy to access? The restaurant is on the top (4th) floor and is accessed by a “slow” elevator. Parking for the building is adequate, although the lot complex is a little tricky because it is divided into several non-connected sections. Many of the spaces are marked “reserved.” My barber (in the building complex) advises that cars have been towed during business hours because they parked in the “wrong” place.

The Uptown Social 501 S. Austin Ave.

(Tamiro Square - 4th Floor)

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