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INSIDE
Sharing the Bounty: In this issue, we hope to encourage you to celebrate the spirit of giving by learning about and supporting our local non-profits, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.
6 9 13 16 19
HOMETOWN HEROES
Colt Catalina Foundation
NON-PROFIT
Operation Liberty Hill
ASK A PRO Georgetown Fence & Deck Budgeting for a Successful Project AROUND TOWN Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce Gala
21 26 28
WHAT MAKES
TEXAS "TEXAS"
Culinary Pride
WORTH THE DRIVE Turkey Trots Across Central Texas
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Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing. She found her voice and fulfillment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Liberty Hill Digest, Cathy oversees multiple magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.
SENIOR WRITERS / COPY EDITORS
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Liberty Hill Digest isa FidelisPublishingGroup,LLCpublication andaproductof AdvocateNewsTXNewspaper. Copyright © 2024
All rights reserved. Liberty Hill Digest is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Liberty Hill, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to Liberty Hill Digest, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537.
Email: info@lhtxdigest.com
WHO WE ARE
In an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, the Liberty Hill Digest constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive: its people and their impact.
Since its inception in 2020, the Liberty Hill Digest has not only reported on more than 550 of the great stories and people in our city, we have also taken pride in actively contributing to its enrichment by mailing more than 400,000 magazines for free in the last four years.
Moreover, we enjoy sharing our commitment to the animal companions of our community through regular features dedicated to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, showcasing the importance of compassion. We are also pleased that our rotating nonprofit column further underscores this dedication by highlighting different support organizations each month like L4 Cares, creating a platform for advocacy and connection.
But we are also good at doing what we do — showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like Operation Liberty Hill, Liberty Hill ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to engage personally and participate in the missions of these community pillars. As well, timely articles featuring local events like Whimsy & Wonder, the City of Liberty Hill, and the involvement of our local businesses in the community go beyond surface-level news, offering insights into the cultural and humanitarian assets of Liberty Hill.
In every story, from first responders and veterans to the latest city events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In addition to these, each November, our Giving Thanks and Giving Back issue shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts, reminding us of the power of community support and the importance of gratitude.
In short, we believe the Liberty Hill Digest is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.
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Legacy of Love
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Colt Catalina Foundation Champions Drowning Prevention
Madison Marchegiano, founder and president of the Colt Catalina Foundation, shares her journey of starting the Colt Catalina Foundation and its mission of educating the community about drowning prevention. The foundation also provides swim lesson scholarships for those in financial need.
WHAT INSPIRED THE FOUNDING OF THE COLT CATALINA FOUNDATION?
Colt Catalina was a family friend of mine who tragically passed away from a drowning accident at the age of 2. I was just 12 years old and had known Colt since he was 6 months old. He was the cutest blonde-haired, blue-eyed baby boy I’d ever laid eyes on. When Colt passed away, his death hit me hard — changed my life in so many ways — and left a hole in my heart.
Five years after Colt passed, trying to process everything and watching his family suffer the unimaginable, I finally got the courage to ask his parents if I could start a nonprofit in his honor since I knew it was too hard for them. I knew I needed to do something to prevent this tragedy from happening to another family. There is nothing more heartbreaking than watching a family suffer the loss of a child and brother.
WHAT NEED IS THE FOUNDATION ADDRESSING IN THE COMMUNITY?
The Colt Catalina Foundation raises awareness for drowning prevention and child safety. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children aged 1 to 4 years. Our goal is to educate the public and provide Infant Aquatics®️ survival swim lesson scholarships around the United States to those in financial need. Infant Aquatics®️ is the second-largest survival swim program in the world. They teach infants and young children aged 6 months through 6 years the swim-float-swim method, and we are proud to be partnered with them and be their top sponsor.
• photos courtesy Madison Marchegiano
WHAT IMPACT HAS COLT HAD ON THE COMMUNITY?
Colt was a vibrant toddler, the love of everyone who knew him, and the apple of his mother's eye. A very talented little boy and a special gift from God. Many people who knew Colt loved his heavenly blue eyes, winning smile, and the sound of his infectious laugh. Colt brought so much joy to this world and touched so many people's lives. He was such a sweet, fun, loving little boy. Colt’s oldest sister played softball at Cedar Park Youth League, and he loved going to the ball park.
In March of 2011, CPYL dedicated the t-ball field as the Colt Catalina Field. Every year I put a banner up under his sign so people can read about him and see his sweet face. In March of 2023, the playground at CPYL was named Colt’s Playground in his honor. Colt’s legacy lives on in so many ways and continues to touch people’s lives even if they never got a chance to meet him.
COULD YOU TALK ABOUT THE FOUNDATION'S COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT?
Besides providing Infant Aquatics®️survival swim lessons scholarships, the Colt Catalina Foundation hosts a toy drive every year for Dell Children’s Hospital. Colt was taken there the day of his accident and we love to give back to them. We also host other various drives for them throughout the year. PHI Air Medical life-flighted him and once a year we donate new medical equipment as a thank-you for trying so hard to save his life.
Another thing we do is drop off food at Liberty Hill Fire Department for EMS Week in May. They responded to the accident and we are forever grateful to them, as well as Dell Children’s Hospital, and PHI Air Medical.
ARE THERE ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?
We are collecting toys for the seventh annual Colt’s Toy Drive for Dell Children’s Hospital for Christmas. Our biggest need at this time is donations for survival swim scholarships.
Those who would like to get involved can email us at ColtCatalinaFoundation@ gmail.com, visit us on our social media, or our website at ColtCatalinaFoundation.com.
HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COLT CATALINA FOUNDATION?
The Colt Catalina Foundation is always looking for volunteers and advocates for our board of directors. Our goal is to bring awareness to childhood drowning and make sure no other family has to suffer the unimaginable pain Colt’s family has endured. Drowning is 100 percent preventable.
OPERATION LIBERTY HILL
LibertyHelpingHill’sHands
What inspired the founding of Operation Liberty Hill?
Operation Liberty Hill, like many nonprofits, was born out of need. After retiring from the City of Austin, I heard an announcement at my church that several of our members needed transportation to appointments. So I began providing rides to anyone who did not have a vehicle, was disabled, elderly, or could not afford to buy gas. With no public transportation in Liberty Hill, even to this day, the need was very apparent.
In 2008, I began volunteering at the Liberty Hill Community Food Bank, which was open two hours per month at a local church and served about 45 fam-
Susan Baker, executive director of Operation Liberty Hill, took time to share her passion for the transformative work of this vital non-profit. Operation Liberty Hill is transforming the lives of local families with programs that go beyond the basics—offering essentials like clothing, meals, and school supplies, along with valuable resources such as financial literacy and job readiness training.
ilies. As God does, He soon burdened the hearts of four women, including myself, with the same task to have a one-stop-shop for the people in need in our community. In 2011, Operation Liberty Hill (OLH) was formed and, in February 2012, the doors opened to the little 800-square-foot house owned by a local church. We would have opened sooner but the Bastrop fires happened on Labor Day weekend 2011 and that little house became a drop-off location for donations going to the victims. Due to the overwhelming response to the fires, Bastrop said “No more clothes!” So, we were left with a pile of clothing that filled almost an entire room reaching over six feet high. This enabled us to start the clothes closet. God provides in mysterious
ways sometimes. By 2013 we had outgrown our current location when a donor came forward and said she would pay for our rent at a larger facility until we could get on our feet. After 18 months, we were able to pay our rent and we also began providing limited financial assistance to our clients.
In 2015, we once again needed a larger facility. Even though we only wanted clothing donations, all types of donations were coming in and we stored them at three different locations in Liberty Hill. In November of 2015 we began renting our current location from Williamson County on 183 in Leander, which allowed us to open a thrift store that helps support our organization.
Tell us about Operation Liberty Hill’s impact?
We have created a place where the people in our community can come and feel safe, seen, and heard. In 2023, Operation Liberty Hill:
Assisted 49,099 people in our community
Distributed 437,008 meals
Gave out 1,176 Summer Snack Bags (due to a lack of a Federal Summer Lunch Program for LHISD)
Supported 217 children who participated through Operation Back to School
Provided more than 57,000 articles of clothing and shoes
Provided 46 hotel nights for our homeless population during extreme weather conditions
One family’s story highlights the vital role of Operation Liberty Hill. During this year’s Back to School event, one parent expressed gratitude for the program that helped provide school essentials that were beyond the family’s financial means. Thanks to Operation Liberty Hill’s support, the oldest child was able to try out for sports and the other three now have athletic shoes for P.E., allowing them to start the school year with confidence.
What needs are you meeting in the community?
Operation Liberty Hill addresses many basic needs of the community. Our Food Pantry addresses the need for nutritious food and provides a voucher to clients so they can choose free clothing and shoes from our Thrift Store. We have several programs, such as Summer Snacks, Angel Tree, and Operation Back to School, that focus on school age children plus the Silver Bells program for our senior population. We also have a resource center to help clients with money management and job readiness, as well as many annual programs that address seasonal needs.
What do you love most about being involved?
It is true that our vision is living out our mission statement every day, working passionately and successfully with our local community to care for and support our neighbors by meeting their current fundamental needs. We also equip and assist them in obtaining the knowledge and skills to become financially stable with a living wage and a bright future. But there is nothing better than seeing kids excited to receive a summer snack bag or a new pair of shoes. And getting to share in the joy parents have when they pick up the Angel Tree gifts for their children’s Christmas or meeting a senior’s need or wish through our Silver Bells Program.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
of Operation Liberty Hill
photos courtesy
Tell us about your community involvement.
We are members of the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce and one of our staff members is on the Chamber Board. We attend events put on by the City of Liberty Hill to try to get the word out about OLH. We also partner with other local non-profits to ensure clients receive the assistance they need. It takes all of us working together as a team. A few of our partners are HEB, Randalls, St. Vincent DePaul, Salvation Army, and United Way.
Any upcoming projects?
The holiday season is an exciting time at Operation Liberty Hill. We have several annual projects coming up, including Angel Tree, Silver Bells, and Blue Santa. Our Share the Warmth Program also provides a new or gently used coat for our kids and space heaters for our clients. Please consider donating coats to Operation Liberty Hill. We are also planning for our Annual Golf Tournament that will be held at Cimarron Hills Golf Course on May 19, 2025.
The greatest project we will probably ever embark on will begin in 2025 as we break ground on a new location. OLH has been blessed with a donation of 2 acres in Liberty Hill and will commence plans for a forever home where we will be better equipped to serve our community.
How can people learn more and get involved?
Every program we offer at OLH has a financial component and we rely on donations to keep providing for the community. Giving Tuesday will be held on December 3. The community can visit our website, operationlh.org, to learn more about our mission, make donations, or apply to join our volunteer family. Donations may also be mailed to PO Box 1081, Liberty Hill, TX 78642. And be sure to stop by our center at 1401 N. Highway 183A in Leander to visit our awesome thrift store!
Budgeting For A Successful Project
Budgeting For A Successful Project
AS ANY HOMEOWNER CAN TELL YOU, THERE ARE A VARIETY OF WAYS TO SPEND MONEY ON YOUR HOUSE AND PROPERTY. SOME PROJECTS ARE “NEED TO DO” (THINK FIXING A BROKEN AIR CONDITIONER IN A TEXAS SUMMER ) WHILE OTHERS FALL MORE INTO THE “WANT TO DO” CATEGORY (SUCH AS ADDING AN OUTDOOR LIVING AREA). THE FOUNDATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT IS STARTED BY GETTING AN ACCURATE BUDGET. THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND AS YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT PROJECT.
PRIORITIZE PROJECTS: Make a list of projects you want done. Begin to separate these projects into “need” and “want to do" categories. Once you’ve listed these various projects, you can begin to prioritize them according to timelines and individual budgets. Coming up with a plan to prioritize projects takes some work, but it is the best way to accomplish those goals in a realistic manner.
SET A REALISTIC BUDGET: While you should always have some funds set aside for unforeseen repairs that pop up, budgeting for larger projects is a separate matter. It may involve cutting back on other discretionary spending to free up money. This could involve scaling back vacations or dining out to pay for a project. Having a good understanding of your monthly financial commitments will help guide you as you build a budget for home improvement projects.
GET BIDS FROM REPUTABLE CONTRACTORS: It is usually a good idea to meet with multiple contractors to get a few bids or proposals. Bids can vary widely, so it is a good idea to compare them. When you meet with contractors, you will also want to assess their knowledge. Are they experienced in this type of work? Do they have a good online reputation? Does their website show photos of similar projects? Are they insured? Pricing alone does not make one bid better or worse than another. There are plenty of stories out there about hiring the cheapest bidder only to pay more in the long run when the work is not completed in a quality manner.
ACCOUNT FOR VARIABLES AND OTHER FEES: Is the bid a firm bid or has some element of pricing been left open? Does the contract specify that all materials and labor are included in the project?
Make sure you have a good understanding of the agreement before a deposit is paid. It is a good idea to get a written proposal for any construction-related project just so there is no confusion about the scope of the work.
CONSIDER THE VALUE OF THE RENOVATION: You should consider home improvement projects as you would any other investment. You will need to understand how much value the project will add to your home in addition to the enjoyment you will get from the project. Taking on a large project if you are planning to sell the home in a short time frame may not make much sense either personally or financially. On the other hand, a house that clearly needs to have work done may be harder to sell for the price you are expecting.
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Sparkling Comeback for the CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Gala
In September, the Liberty Hill Chamber of Commerce dazzled with denim, diamonds, and vibrant anticipation during its first fundraising gala in about 10 years. Originally, the Chamber hosted galas with the goal of raising money for its operating expenses and program funding. “The board at the time moved away from it being a fundraising thing and made it more of an appreciation party,” Chamber Executive Director Kelly Michael says. “It was successful, and everyone always had a great time, but COVID really affected our businesses and we lost members during that time. We needed to get back to what we were — a nonprofit, and we needed to be doing fundraisers.”
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The Denim & Diamonds Gala offered a fun night of food, music, dancing, and networking that brought new and longtime Liberty Hill business owners together at Reunion Ranch in Georgetown. Raffle prizes included a Blackstone grill from McCoy’s and a beautiful diamond necklace from Ranch Road Jewelry.
Kelly calls the gala “a huge networking opportunity for business owners to get their names out there and meet people one on one. Everybody had a great time. I think going forward, there will be more excitement in it for the next one.”
Organizers weren’t sure what to expect after going back to the event’s original fundraising format, but the gala exceeded expectations, selling out and achieving its $24,000 goal. Kelly says, “Our goal was to sell 200 tickets, and we ended up selling 206. I had people at the last minute texting me as we’re setting up, ‘Can we go?’ ” It’s
a welcome change for Kelly, who remembers a much different Chamber when she first started in 2020. “We were still very much locked down. We could barely get 25 to 30 people to a monthly luncheon. This past year, with the growth of our town and the businesses coming, the Chamber now averages 60 to 70 people every month for our networking luncheon.”
BRIGHT FUTURE
Moving forward, Kelly says, “The future looks very bright for the Chamber. We keep growing — every week I get new members signing up, and we’re averaging three to four ribbon cuttings a month. The growth of our area has made the Chamber really stand out. People who aren’t members are following us on social media. They like what they’re seeing; that we’re out doing stuff.” Their community involvement includes setting up a booth at the city’s Independence Day Spectacular and helping with the event’s various contests, as well as setting up a booth at the Christmas Festival and announcing the parade floats as they pass through the downtown.
Despite its rapid growth, Kelly emphasizes that “Liberty Hill is still a small town. We are made up of family-owned businesses, including those that have been here a long time and several I’ve recently had ribbon cuttings for, and I see more of that coming too.” She acknowledges that larger corporate chains and big-box stores are inevitable but assures that “the chamber supports all businesses, no matter if they’re corporate or not. We have a lot of family-owned businesses that are local and live here, and we’ll continue to support them.”
Photos by Nicole Bolinger - For more glimpses of all the gala fun, visit nicolebolingerphotography. pixieset.com/lhchamberdenimanddiamondsgala/
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WHAT MAKES TEXAS
by Linda A. Thornton
Culinary Pride:
Hot, Sweet, and Lots of Meat!
The blend of Mexican, Southern, African American, Native American, and European influences has flavored Texas cuisine with just enough sweetness and spice to create a state of devoted and discerning appetites.
Brisket
In the 1800s, Jewish immigrants shared their Passover brisket recipes with Texas cattle ranchers to produce the unique barbecuing method still popular today. Rather than cooking over an open flame or with charcoal, Texans use a spice rub or a marinade and cook the meat “low and slow” in an open pit, using mesquite wood. The meat stays moist and develops its signature smoky, savory flavor. Today, Texas pitmasters still favor brisket for its full flavor and ability to absorb the smoke, but you’ll find ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and chicken on menus, too.
Chicken-Fried Steak
Every October 26, Texans wish each other “Happy chicken-fried steak day!” as they celebrate the date the Texas legislature declared this traditional Texas entrée warranted a celebration. Influenced by the German and Austrian wiener schnitzel, tenderized cube steak is drenched in flour, deep-fried, and served with creamy gravy.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
Kolaches
Initially filled with preserves, served as a pastry, and introduced to Texas by Czech immigrants, kolaches have evolved into a hand-held treat filled with just about anything and served in storefronts of their own.
Pecan Pie
Pecans, eggs, butter, corn syrup, and sugar – these simple ingredients have become a Southern favorite, but only Texas can boast that it is our official state dessert. In 1868, the first known pecan pie recipe was submitted by a Texas woman for a St. Louis cookbook. Pecan seeds, dating back to 6000 B.C., were found by archaeologists along the Rio Grande. Today, Texas is the top pecan producer among states with native trees.
Margaritas
Legend has it that the state’s signature drink, made with tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice, was created by a Galveston, Texas bartender and named after the Spanish version of singer Peggy Lee’s name in 1946.
It’s a fact that the frozen margarita machine was invented by a Texan in 1971. A restaurant owner was inspired by a SlurpeeTM machine at a 7-Eleven and began tinkering with an old soft serve ice cream machine to produce big batches of the popular cocktail. The original machine now sits in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.
Migas
Migas comes from the Spanish verb migar, which means 'to crumble.' Spanish and Portuguese shepherds created this hearty dish, originally made with stale bread. Migas can also be prepared with tortillas or potatoes. Mixed with jalapeño peppers, garlic, cilantro, eggs, cheese, refried black beans, and toppings, it becomes a hearty breakfast.
Salsa
Teamed up with tortilla chips, the delicious duo was named the official state snack of Texas in 2003. Salsa, the Spanish word for sauce, is a popular condiment usually made from tomatoes, chopped onions, and peppers, but can also be prepared with other vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices. It can be served hot or cold, spicy or sweet.
Chili
Do not get between a Texan and a bowl of chili and do not try to add beans to the recipe. The International Chili Society sides with Texas and confirms the combination of meats, chili peppers, and spices is officially prepared without beans.
Chili was introduced to the United States in 1860 when a group of women who became known as the “Chili Queens” started selling chili at a stand in San Antonio’s Military Plaza.
In 1977, chili received the designation of official state dish by the Texas legislature.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
Tamales
This portable meal has been popular since the time of the Mayan and Aztec cultures. Many families share the Christmas tradition of preparing and enjoying tamales together. The mixture of corn dough, called masa, is the basis for the tamale, which is filled with a slow-cooked meat and vegetable filling. They are usually wrapped in dried corn husks or banana leaves and steamed before serving.
Tamales in Texas reflect a deep cultural and culinary connection to Mexico, but they also embrace local Texan ingredients and flavors. Over time, Texan tamales have developed unique variations, incorporating regional spices and ingredients, further embedding the dish into the state’s diverse food culture.
Tamales have become a beloved part of Tex-Mex cuisine, and their association with festive gatherings and family traditions has contributed to their strong presence in Texas food culture.
Tex-Mex
This term refers to the blending of Mexican, Spanish, and Native American cuisine with Texas influences. Traditionally, black beans and yellow cheese, rather than pinto beans and white cheese, indicate the dish is Tex-Mex. Melted cheese and chili peppers form the basis of queso, a popular Tex-Mex appetizer. Before adding grilled meats, vegetables, cumin, chili powder, and cheese, there are a variety of forms flour or corn tortillas can take:
Burritos – soft, large and rolled up
Enchiladas – soft and covered with sauce
Fajitas – soft
Flautas – crispy and rolled
Tacos – soft or hard-shells, eaten with your hands, add eggs for breakfast
Quesadilla – filled, then grilled
by Ann Marie Kennon
GATHER AND GIVE THANKS T URKEY TROTS ACROSS CENTRAL TEXAS
As the air finally chills, Central Texas transforms into a hub of Thanksgiving-themed events that are definitely worth the drive. These gatherings offer a great mix of community, festivity, and local flair — memorable excursions for families looking to spice up their November. Each of these events offers a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving while engaging with the community and enjoying the festive atmosphere of Central Texas. SCAN QR CODES FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR EVENTS.
1. CENTRAL TEXAS TURKEY TROT BRAZOS PARK • WACO
The Central Texas Turkey Trot draws community members and visitors to celebrate a pre-Thanksgiving day of fun and fitness. This annual event encourages participants of all ages and skill levels to engage in a healthy start to the holiday. With routes carefully mapped out to showcase the scenic beauty of the area, runners and walkers can choose between a 5K or a more relaxed one-mile fun run.
The races not only promote physical wellness but also foster community spirit, as many gather to cheer, participate, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Post-race activities typically include local food, music, and entertainment, making it more than just a race; it's a celebration of community and health. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a family looking to create new traditions, the day offers a blend of challenge and cheer.
THIS YEAR ALTRUSA OF THE BRAZOS WILL BE COLLECTING CANNED GOODS FOR THE SHEPHERD'S HEART (FOOD PANTRY) AT THE RACE.
BRAZOS PARK EAST • 3516 N MLK JR BLVD, WACO • NOVEMBER 23, 9AM -12NOON • REGISTRATION $35-$45
2. 14TH ANNUAL CARLSON LAW FIRM TURKEY TROT • TEMPLE
The Carlson Law Firm has been organizing this Thanksgiving morning tradition in Temple for the past 14 years. The event includes a 5K run/walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels, promoting community and wellness. Participants who pre-register receive t-shirts, and awards are given to top finishers, making it a fun and competitive way to start the holiday.
BAYLOR S&W WEST CAMPUS, 530 N. KEGLEY RD., TEMPLE • NOVEMBER 28, 8AM-11AM • REGISTRATION $30
3. POULTRY IN MOTION TURKEY TROT • WACO
This event, known as "Poultry in Motion," is celebrated in downtown Waco and includes options for a one-mile fun run or a more challenging 5K. It is designed to cater to experienced runners and those new to turkey trots, making it a welcoming event for all community members. Kicking off the holiday with physical activity, it promises a festive and energetic start to Thanksgiving Day, with the added bonus of a pre-registration t-shirt for early sign-ups. Registration includes a race day packet and awards for top finishers.
WACO SUSPENSION BRIDGE
101 N. UNIVERSITY PARKS
NOVEMBER 28, 8AM FUN RUN & 8:30AM TIMED 5K
REGISTRATION $35 – $40
4. SAN ANTONIO FOOD BANK TURKEY TROT
The San Antonio Food Bank hosts this annual 5K walk and run to support its mission to fight hunger. Participants gather on Thanksgiving morning to run or walk, helping to raise funds and awareness for the food bank. This event is family- and pet-friendly and not only offers a chance to get active before the day’s feasting but also reflects the community’s spirit of giving back. It’s a meaningful way to start the holiday, emphasizing fitness and philanthropy.
EVERY REGISTRATION PROVIDES A TURKEY FOR A FAMILY FACING HUNGER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.
COMMANDERS HOUSE PARK
622 S. FLORES STREET
NOVEMBER 28 • 8:30AM
REGISTRATION (YOUTH TO ADULT) $10 - $50
CHIMES IN Election Hangover
Yes, Belle is an old lady but she believes, perhaps, many might agree that over the last two decades or so, democracy has proven to be harder than tequila.
Well, folks, we’re on the cusp of surviving another election season — hopefully. And just like after any wild party, we’ll wake up this month with an election hangover. But instead of regretting that fourth margarita, we’re more likely to be regretting Twitter fights, watching too many debates, and the lawn signs that are still somehow stuck in the yard. However, unlike a morning after too much partying, many of us will be pleased to have this hangover because it will mean the day everyone's been prognosticating, postulating, and/or panicking about for the past two years... or four, depending on which side you're on, is finally a historical fact and we can get back to everyday life, for better or worse.
Of course that won't really happen without us first becoming armchair political analysts. We feel compelled to diagnose what went right or wrong in our candidates' races with all the grace and subtlety of a living room after the dog dropped something the Roomba wasn't programmed to clean. Your social media feed is still awash with your cousin’s “expert” take on how his write-in vote for Batman was the *real* stand for democracy. Meanwhile, everyone else is posting fact-checks like it’s their full-time job and sharing alternative media coverage like it was posted on stone tablets.
Suddenly, your neighbor — who couldn't tell you the difference between the Electoral College and educational daycare — is now the unofficial spokesperson for the Constitution. And, bless her heart, she’s using memes she found on Instagram to explain it.
I, for one, will be supremely happy not to receive endless texts from candidates begging for my last dollar. Aside from the all-day interruptions, it's just plain insulting to have a random party member on the other side of the country explain — as if I hadn't already heard it hundreds of times from the TV pundits — how my $5 donation is the only thing keeping the nation from certain ruin and despair. Naturally, I type STOP=END, which results in the same bot asking again in 20 minutes, from another phone number that is one digit different from the last one.
I don't have the heart to tell any of them that, as a solid hundred-aire, I never had any intention of sending a nickel of my hard earned fortune outside the borders of Texas. The one thing Belle has faith in, even in certain ruin and despair, is that Texas will be okay either way and Im'ma just stay here.
I will, however, continue to enjoy the websites that provide some version of independent reporting so I absolutely won't miss the need to watch any major news programs. News networks always insist they’re balanced, but somehow the “neutral” panel discussion consists of one voice of reason sandwiched between
a former campaign manager and an activist whose Twitter bio includes a long list of pronouns and reads, “Resisting since kindergarten.” It’s not really journalism — it’s a gladiator match, and the winner gets to interrupt the most.
On Election Night, I do love how quickly the "we knew the whole time it would turn out like this" comes out after the first two or three states report their tallies. This is shortly followed by anchors confidently tapping giant maps like they are picking appetizers on an Uber Eats app. Watching them fill the hours by analyzing exit polls is like listening to weather forecasters try to predict snow in Texas — enthusiastic, but mostly wrong. And, really, their whole job at that point is to keep us from going to bed by telling us our candidate has either crushed it beyond historical precedent or was last seen heading back into the basement of his or her mansion.
But hey, this is democracy, folks — it’s messy and it’s loud. I will simply look forward to the time, in a few weeks — when the protests over the lawsuits for the recount of the recount are no longer the lead story, and keyboard warriors are rage farming about other things — the pursuit of normal life will have resumed in earnest. Sadly, it will also be an important time for journalists because now they can hit us with the worst possible news: "Stay tuned for early projections on the 2026 midterms!"
At that point the only logical response is, "Just pass the turkey — at least it’s the holiday season."
