My Jarrell Monthly July 2021 by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

FEATURES 4 HISTORY IN YOUR BACKYARD

County Judge John King, Founder of Corn Hill

INSIDE

8 BLUE MATTERS

Deputy Hudash Honored For Heroism & Bravery

16 PATRIOTISM RUNS DEEP

The Hernandez Family's Legacy of Service

FAVORITES 10

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Imperial Products Supply

EDUCATION Homegrown Heart of Texas Homeschool Co-op

COMMUNITY JP3, JISD, & Jarrell PD Mentorship Program

AROUND TOWN Jarrell's Food Pantry

76537 LIFE Texas Emergency Assistance Registry

WORTH THE DRIVE The Taylor Rodeo, A Texas Tradition

NEIGHBOR LEIGH Tweet Like It's 1776

PARTING SHOT 77th WCSP Rodeo

Hidden History: The inconspicuous Corn Hill Cemetery is the remaining link to Jarrell's founding.

The Hernandez family has turned service to country into a family legacy.

Local homeschool families cultivate friendship, education, and community with their own "home-grown" co-op.

Enjoy some of our favorite memories from the 77th Annual WCSP Rodeo.

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EDITOR'S NOTE | CAMY REYNOLDS PUBLISHER

Cathy Payne

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Ann Marie Kennon

COMMUNITY EDITOR Camy Reynolds Camy is a native Texan and mom of three who has lived in Jarrell since 2009. She serves her community as a director on the Sonterra MUD Board, is on the board for the Jarrell Education Foundation, is the PTO President for Igo Elementary, and founded the local Facebook group Mom Tribe Jarrell that has over 700 members.

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Janet Hage

SENIOR WRITER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charlotte Kovalchuk Karina Cuenca Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon

Celebrating America's birthday provides a great time to pause and reflect on who we are, where we have come from, and how we arrived to where we are now. This month is a good time for reflection as individuals, as a community, and as a nation. I believe Jarrell is a wonderful mirror for the best of our nation as a whole and, as I sought to learn more about the history of our community, I dove deeper into a street here in Sonterra named Judge King Drive. I was able to unravel some history that was right in my backyard I was completely unaware of before—history that laid the foundation for where we are as a community today. I was intrigued as I researched the town of Corn Hill that County Judge John King founded and how it ultimately became the town I know and love called Jarrell. That drove me to the Corn Hill Cemetery—the last vestige of that community and a place I lived beside for five years but never took time to explore. As I walked each row, taking in the history of veterans buried there from WW1, WW2, Korean, Vietnam, and Civil Wars, I realized how grateful I am for their sacrifice to protect our beloved America then, and for the young men of today like our very own Hunter Hernandez who are protecting us now.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • David Valdez • Todd White SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR • Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES • Debbie Tolliver DISTRIBUTION • David Schumacher IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel ADVERTISING Jenny Campbell 254-251-9167 (Cell) 512-598-6538 (Direct) jenny@myjarrell.com

My Jarrell Monthly is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication. Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved. My Jarrell Monthly is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in the 76537 zip code. Mail may be sent to My Jarrell, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537.

Email: info@myjarrell.com 2

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Deputy Jonathan Hudash, honoring his oath to protect and serve our community, is another example of the self-sacrifice and bravery we honor, in turn. It’s so inspiring to learn about those right here in Jarrell who have devoted their lives, in different measures, to make a difference. As we enjoy our Fourth of July gatherings; eating barbecue, watermelon, and watching fireworks with family and friends, let’s also enjoy celebrating where we came from, where we are now, and be grateful for those who have fought for our liberty and freedom. Happy birthday, America!

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H IS T OR Y I N YO U R B AC K YARD

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@myjarrell.com

Honoring John E. King Father of Corn Hill and County Judge

e may know the history behind the Fourth of July, but what about the history in our own backyard? “We hear so much history on TV and the History Channel, but sometimes it doesn’t help with our local areas,” author and former Jarrell resident Priscilla King says. “When you google ‘Jarrell, TX’, the only thing you get is the tornado. That’s really why I wrote the [Images of America: Jarrell] book with Mary. It’s because I knew there had to be a lot more to the history than what people were aware of. If you’re going to have true roots somewhere, you need to know about [its history].” For example, you may have driven down Judge King Drive next to the Jarrell Elementary School and wondered about the story behind

the street name. It belongs to a time before Jarrell, back in the early 19th century when the northern Williamson County settlement was known as Corn Hill. One of Williamson County’s first communities, Corn Hill originated when five families settled in the area now known as Jarrell. John E. King, an early settler, moved here from North Carolina and named his new home after the area’s hilly terrain and corn that stretched across the land as far as the eye could see. Corn Hill grew up around his property and he opened the post office at his house in 1855, serving as postmaster as well as county judge from 1858 to 1860. As the home became a necessary center for many, the stagecoach line that connected Georgetown

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and Round Rock to Fort Gates also made his home one of their stage stops. “He instigated the whole thing and the town built up around that stage stop,” Priscilla says. “It was his property and home that started it all. I think it was his vision to meet the needs of people because, otherwise, I don’t think he would have opened his home as a stage stop. I think he was probably entrepreneurial in his makeup.”

Over the next 50 years, Corn Hill grew into a thriving Central Texas town and, over time, added a blacksmith shop, hotel, many other businesses, two cotton gins, several churches, a Masonic Lodge, newspaper, and college. The growing community added a public school and established the Corn Hill Independent School District, one of the first in the county, by the 1890s. Although Corn Hill was never incorporated as a city, an estimated 500 people lived in the area by the early 1900s. The community began to decline in 1909 when the Bartlett Western Railway bypassed Corn Hill two miles to the north, establishing the town of Jarrell. “When Jarrell became the town, because of the railroad coming through and bypassing Corn Hill, Corn Hill literally and physically moved to Jarrell,” Priscilla says. Steam engines helped move homes and businesses to the new town site, and the Corn Hill post office followed soon after, moving to Jarrell in 1912. Today, the Corn Hill Cemetery off County Road 313 is all that remains of Jarrell’s early days.

Corn Hill Cemetery A tribute to Jarrell’s past, the Corn Hill Cemetery rests on Hugh Smith Lane off County Road 313 as a reminder of the community that preceded Jarrell. Priscilla King is glad the remnant still exists despite the demise of Corn Hill more than a century ago. When she moved to Jarrell in 1975, she remembers watching the Black family hotel and old Corn Hill houses along I-35 south of County Road 313 deteriorate and undergo demolition. “Every time some of those [Corn Hill] houses were demolished, you felt like it was gone, and no one would ever see it again,” Priscilla says. “I have seen remnants [of Corn Hill] other than just the cemetery, but that’s the only thing left now.” Dating back to 1886, the Corn Hill Cemetery was maintained by the Corn Hill Masonic Lodge until the group disbanded and the Corn Hill Cemetery Association took over upkeep in 1953. The cemetery is located on six acres, and veterans from the Civil, Vietnam, and Korean wars, as well as World Wars I and II are buried there. Originally located southwest of its current location, the Corn Hill Cemetery had to be moved to the top of the hill due to flooding. J U LY 2 0 2 1  M Y J A R R E L L M O N T H LY

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B LUE MAT TE R S

by Camy Reynolds • camy@myjarrell.com

Jarrell Deputy Honored with Carnegie Medal for Heroism

n June 9, Congressman John Carter presented Williamson County Deputy Jonathan Hudash* with the Carnegie Medal for Heroism. He is the only Texan to receive the award in 2021.

HEROIC ACT On April 15, 2020, Deputy Hudash went above and beyond the call of duty when he responded to a twocar automobile crash in Round Rock. As he arrived, he found an overturned truck and a service van that was fully engulfed in flames. Upon arriving, he rushed from his police vehicle and partially entered the burning vehicle on the passenger side. Extensive smoke and flames created intense heat that made it impossible for Deputy Hudash to unclip the man's seat belt. He

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grasped the man’s arms and tugged, but lost his grip. He then grasped the man’s belt, pulling on it until the man’s upper body came through the window opening. He then pulled him fully from the vehicle and dragged him to safety. The man was taken by ambulance to the hospital for treatment of his extensive injuries, including severe burns, but he later succumbed. Deputy Hudash was treated at a hospital for burns to his hands and fingers. He was released and later recovered. *HOO-dash

THE CARNEGIE HERO COMMISSION AWARDS THIS MEDAL TO INDIVIDUALS WHO RISK THEIR LIVES TO SAVE OR ATTEMPT TO SAVE OTHERS. THIS YEAR 18 MEDALS WERE GIVEN OUT ACROSS THE UNITED STATES. At left, a screen shot of Deputy Hudash's dash cam footage.

FOR LOVE OF THE JOB As he accepted The Carnegie Medal he said, “During the incident, I just kept thinking there was no way I wasn't going to get him out of that car.” He says he hopes and knows anyone else would have done the same because in that kind of situation, people don't have time to think about anything else. He added, "It’s a huge honor to be a part of this group of people throughout history who have done such heroic things." Congressman Carter recognized Deputy Hudash for his bravery and courage but he went on to praise all deputies as true heroes, "Because they each put on a badge every day."

Deputy Hudash said one of the things he enjoys most when he's out on patrol and driving to his home in Jarrell is the friendly smiles and waves from people as he passes. He says, “Although people don't need to say they appreciate what we do, it is nice to hear it, and know they see us as people.” Jonathan says, "As a child, I just always knew that I wanted to be in law enforcement. I never really considered anything else." He was quick to add his advice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement; "It's especially important, given the current state our world is in, to please continue down that path because every community needs more good men and women out there keeping our people and property safe."

Lexi Hudash, Deputy Jonathan Hudash, Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey, Congressman John Carter, County Judge Bill Gravell J U LY 2 0 2 1  M Y J A R R E L L M O N T H LY

B U SINE S S S P O T L I G H T

You Deserve the Imperial Treatment I M P E R I A L P R O D U C T S S U P P LY I S A FA M I LY - O W N E D B U S I N E S S . T H E I R B E AU T I F U L P R O D U C T S ARE ALSO ON D I S P L AY I N T H E SHOWROOM OF THEIR SISTER CO M PA N Y I N ROUND ROCK. I T I L E T X . CO M

atural stone has been a prime building material for most of recorded history for good reason. From floors to full façades, nothing compares to the strength, durability, and endless luster of natural elements. Whether you are looking to upgrade your backsplash, create a backyard oasis, or complete an entire home, Imperial Products Supply, Inc. manufactures and wholesales real stone veneer, aggregates, and brick products for homes and commercial properties. They source their materials from all over Texas and are able to sample, supply, and ship their superlative products coast to coast.

FOR ALL MARKETS Imperial’s team of experts has the experience—and the right contacts— to make procurement for any project simple and affordable. Co-owner Juan Diosdado explains, “Many think of us as a supplier, but we are truly a one-stop shop for retail customers and contractors alike. We have been in the business for more than 20 years and our account managers have backgrounds in both markets, so we are prepared to recommend and furnish decorative materials for the exterior and interior of any home or business.”

Not only do they supply building and landscaping materials—masonry and stucco to roof tiles and mulch—Imperial offers educational seminars for architects and designers. Their training keeps everyone in the business on the cutting edge of new products and trends, and best practices for pricing and cost. Training even includes a hands-on stone cutting to lend a sense of the material and how it becomes showroom-ready. But Imperial’s collaborative spirit does not end there. Customers who visit their website will find a very unique online calculator (ImperialProSupply.com) that enables customers to estimate material needs for themselves. Juan says, “Some businesses do not like to share the secret of project estimates, but we make it available to the public. We know customers are not professionals when it comes to calculating how many yards, tons, or bags they might

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need. With our online tool, everyone can be certain they are ordering and paying only for what they need.”

THE PERFECT CUSTOMER Juan says Imperial staff love to work with custom ideas and anyone who is looking for something different. “We work hard to hone the instincts of our staff to understand customer vision and take the time to make it a reality. We are most happy when we are able to look at a plan in the design phase and identify ways in which our products can make the vision even more beautiful, economical, and energy efficient.” Call Juan or visit their website to learn more about why Imperial is popular all over the Lone Star State, as well as their eagerness to design and build wherever there is a desire for Texas stone.

IMPERIAL PRODUCTS SUPPLY • 512-991-9000 24500 RONALD REAGAN BLVD, LIBERTY HILL MON-FRI 7AM-5PM • SAT 7AM-2PM

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E DU C AT I O N

by Camy Reynolds • camy@myjarrell.com

Flourishing in the Heart of Jarrell Homegrown Heart of Texas Homeschool

id you know we have a thriving homeschool co-op right here in Jarrell? Krystle Dodge founded Homegrown Heart of Texas Homeschoolers as a support and social group to fill a community need.

A CO - O P I S A G R O U P O F H O M E S C H O O L FA M I L I E S W H O M E E T A N D CO L L A B O R AT E TO A C H I E V E E D U C AT I O N GOALS. THEY CAN BE ORGANIZED AROUND ACADEMICS, SOCIAL TIME, ARTS, CRAFTS, SERVICE WORK— O R A CO M B I N AT I O N O F A L L .

Krystle recalls, when her family moved here, there was nothing in the area for homeschoolers. “I started the group to find friends for my boys. It grew fast, and soon we knew we needed to help others so we invited all the nearby communities.” She started with field trips and social gatherings and, as the group began to grow, expanded to group learning. Today, they rent the Memorial Park community building and hold Co-op every Wednesday

for children age 5 and up. Krystle says, “We do a lot of hands-on learning and love our classes. We have math, science, history, Bible, sewing, PE, life skills, cooking, and our own community garden”.

HAPPY PARENTS Tracy Powell says, “Homegrown Homeschool Co-Op has truly helped our family transition smoothly after moving from out of state last summer. When talk of a co-op enrichment program came about we jumped in with both feet because, though my daughters really enjoyed the field trips and social events, they really missed the enrichment class time they once had." The group has had some growing pains, but parents are pleased to see their children flourishing with added enrichment. Tracy adds, "We are so thankful to be able to share our learning experiences with like-minded families. My girls have learned useful life skills in gardening, sewing, and physical education classes."

Mom Stephanie Sweeney says, “I've been homeschooling my kids for about five years and, being new to the area, I wasn't sure how or where to make friends. These [Homegrown] women were so welcoming and inviting, within a few minutes I knew we had found our tribe. This was not a coincidence. This was God's answer to my prayer. My kids learned some subjects that are outside of my strengths, but most importantly, we found community.” Alicia Feldman adds, “I knew my kids needed to be able to socialize with peers outside the home, so I was searching for a group that we could join. I had no idea that when we joined Homegrown, that it would be like joining a big family!"

SO MUCH TO GAIN— DUES JUST $20 PER YEAR • REGISTRATION IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND Krystle Dodge (254) 368-8465 HgHomeschoolers@gmail.com

R E G I S T R AT I O N AUGUST 2-9 Meet the teacher & orientation September 1, 6pm for all registered families. First day of next semester • September 8 at the Jarrell Community Center

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COMMU N I TY

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@myjarrell.com

Jarrell Stepping Up for Mentorship Program JISD and JP3 Opportunities to Help At-Risk Youth

he supportive relationship formed between a mentor and mentee is sometimes immediate. More often than not, it is long-term and means benefits for both. Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Evelyn McLean created such a program when she noticed a common thread in truancy cases. The Judge says, "It wasn't something we planned. We realized these kids were having trouble connecting with someone at school. For an at-risk teen, it only takes one to make a difference."

MENTORS NEEDED Judge McLean explains the high demand for mentors comes from Mentor Jacob, JP3 Judge Evelyn McLean, and mentee Rafael the one-to-one moral and ethical principles; people relationship and who want to give back to kids, and the many kids in need, "There is an help them through the pitfalls of life." overwhelming number of juveniles who need a positive adult role model and I don't like having to choose which kids can have a mentor."

THE PROGRAM

Fortunately, Jacob was already volunteering in the court in other capacities, saw the benefits, and asked the Judge if they could formalize the program. He says, "A program designation allowed us to schedule meetings and set goals. Being able to stay in contact, talk about needs, and access resources got us to the next level of success with the kids."

JISD Jarrell school counselors recognized the same need, so they collaborated with Police Chief Kevin Denney to create a program for members of the Jarrell and Sonterra community to interact, support, and look out for marginalized middle and high school students. Chief Denney adds, "We opened a conduit with JP3 to allow our folks to also help out in the court. We have interest from members of the police and fire departments, and city council and it's a great way to show kids someone is looking out for them, and wants them to do better." 14

Chief Kevin Denney

Mentors and mentees meet weekly to encourage, listen, and share sound advice. Nora Rodriguez oversees the JP3 program and says, "Mentors set goals for the kids— catching up with school work or family, and giving them options to push forward. We want them to not just get by, but thrive." Chief Denney explains, "There are no special requirements, although the department does do background checks. We want people with high

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BE A MENTOR There are plenty of kids in need in the school district and the court. For court mentees, Judge McLean creates individualized programs, with the goal of getting them through their court proceedings. Rafael is proof-positive that mentoring makes the difference. Having built a solid relationship with Jacob, he is committed to staying with JP3 as a mentor himself. It is just as important to help kids before they end up in court. Students may sometimes skip classes, struggle academically, or have challenges at home. Chief Denney says, "Selfishly, I get more out of mentoring than I put in; I think most mentors feel that way. When you get to know a young person, you realize that all generations are different, but each has tough times. This is their tough time and it gives you more empathy for what this generation is facing." New mentors are needed as the new school year approaches (or any time), and interested adults can contact Nora at 512-943-1570 or Chief Denney at 512-746-5333.

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Patriotism Runs Deep One Jarrell Family's Continuing Service by Camy Reynolds • camy@myjarrell.com

here are two things Hunter Hernandez has been doing his whole life; living in Jarrell and dreaming of being in the United States Marine Corps. He says simply, "I am proud to be an American and have always wanted to serve my country." Hunter's parents, Alex and Melanie, served in U.S. Navy aviation and both are proud to see him living his life choices while serving a purpose greater than himself.

SEMPER FI Growing up in a military family, Hunter says he realized the brotherhood, Marines ethos, and high standards appealed to him the most. He considered enlisting after high school but chose to attend college after he was offered a football scholarship. "I accepted the scholarship at Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma and was accepted into the Marine Officer Selection program in my sophomore year. After contracting, I went before a selection board and was chosen to attend Officer Candidate School. That instruction began last summer in Quantico, Virginia." Hunter returned to SNU to complete his senior year of college and received a degree in Sports Management. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in May of this year and will return to Quantico in October to complete the next basic Officer training program. "I want to play a part in making the world a better place and try to rid the world of some of the evil in it. I want to protect my loved ones and everyone else while protecting the freedom of 16

2LT Hunter Hernandez

this country. I have no problem putting my life the line to protect others and their futures." While home for a few months, he is enjoying being with family and friends but is eager to move on to the next phase of training. As a 2nd LT, Hunter is already well-versed in the lingo and knows where he wants to serve. His job and responsibilities will be finalized when he returns to Quantico in the Fall. "I anticipate I will get my (military occupational specialty) MOS at TBS (the basic school). I am hoping to be an Infantry officer or have an assignment that has anything to do with combat."

MARINE LIFE Hunter and his parents are prepared for the challenges and risks that lie ahead. He says, "I have not been on any deployments at this time but I want to serve for the sake of others." Alex and Melanie agree, "We want him to do what makes him happy, and although he has chosen to put himself in harm's way, we are proud to know the men and women of the Marine Corps will have a great leader in him." Adjusting to military life, Hunter adds, was exciting, but, "Everything is a surprise. There is nothing that comes before to prepare a person, mentally, for meeting Sergeant Instructors and enduring the tasks and challenges they put you through at first."

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Despite the surprises, he loves the Corps and plans to serve 20 years and retire. "I’m not sure what I want to do afterwards; possibly be a firefighter or police officer. But for anyone considering the military, I have simple advice: Work hard, stay focused, and don’t let anyone or anything to stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. For parents, I would suggest that they support their son or daughter in whatever they choose even if it isn’t what parents would choose for them."

Alex agrees, "While it would have been nice to have him in the same branch, I can’t really say we wished he would have went Navy. We want him to do what he wants to do and what will make him happy. It is his life to live not ours."

IN THE FAMILY Hunter's dad, Alex, was also born and raised in Jarrell. Alex met Melanie in the Philippines while they were serving in the Navy and came back to Jarrell where they raised Hunter and his two sisters. Melanie says, "We have family in all branches of the military and we are so proud of Hunter's leadership skills. When people ask him why he didn't join the Navy like his parents, he says because he wanted to join the 'men's deparment' of the Navy. He has always lived by the motto 'Go big or go home.'"

Hunter during OCS at Brown Field at Marine Corps Base Quantico (Virginia)

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A R OU ND T O W N

by Karina Cuenca • karina@myjarrell.com

Jarrell Food Pantry Provides

OPEN FOR YOU

he economic effects of COVID and the winter freeze of Central Texas reminded many locals of how critical food banks, local pantries, and soup kitchens are. Fortunately for our community, Brenda Cooper, Director of Jarrell Community Food Pantry, has been working to keep clients in Jarrell and Bartlett nourished for the last 13 years. The pantry was first sponsored by the First United Methodist Church of Jarrell. It is still based there but has clients, volunteers, and donors from several local congregations. In an effort to increase their ability to serve the community, the pantry became a registered partner of the Central Texas Food Bank (CTX Food Bank), sourcing much of their food through the food bank. Additionally, several of Baptist and Catholic churches in the area, as well as generous members of the community, provide support with food drives and monetary donations.

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The pantry is open year round. Brenda and her team serve the community on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of every month from 12pm–2pm. The pantry is open to anyone with a need or desire to resource food products from the pantry, and operates on the honor system. “We turn no one down and we don’t ask for any proof; that’s not why we’re here,” Brenda adds. The offerings include USDA meat, shelf-stable items, and pantry staples. Inventory is fairly consistent throughout the year, but does vary with new donations.

ON THE FRONT LINES OF HUNGER RELIEF IN THE CO M M U N I T Y

WANT TO HELP? Interested in joining their mission? Donations of food items can be dropped on the steps of the First United Methodist Church (map).

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Monetary donations can be mailed to Jarrell Community Food Pantry, Brenda Cooper, 216 Jake Drive, Jarrell, TX 76537. Those interested funding or volunteering can call the church at (254) 227-4486 to coordinate with Brenda directly. While any and all donations are greatly appreciated, monetary donations tend to go farther in the hands of the pantry. As a partner agency of the CTX Food Bank, prices are very affordable to the pantry, so that they can do more with their limited resources. The pantry procures food at a fraction of what it costs to purchase the same items in a grocery store. Monetary donations also alleviate the labor of sorting, which is done by volunteers. Want to learn more about what it takes or know someone in need? Resources from employment to assistance can be found at the QR code.

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76537 LI F E

by Camy Reynolds • camy@myjarrell.com

"76537 Life" is Q&A that is all about municipal details and information that will, over time, add to our knowledge base and help readers understand the differences living in various locations in Economic Jarrell. We will address things readers may like to know about the variables within.

State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry

f you or someone you know needs assistance during emergency events, the State of Texas presents the STEAR program. STEAR is a free, voluntary registry that provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with information on special needs in their community. Texas communities use the registry information in different ways. While registering yourself in the STEAR registry does not guarantee you will receive a specific service during an emergency, every community has services available. For more information on how our community will use information in the STEAR registry, contact Jarrell's Office of Emergency Management at (512) 746-1816 or emercoord@ cityofjarrell.com.

WHO SHOULD REGISTER? The state recommends registration if an individual: has a disability or limited mobility has communication barriers requires additional medical assistance during an emergency event requires transportation assistance requires personal care assistance

HOW TO REGISTER Scan the code to register online Dial 2-1-1 or use your video telephone relay option of choice to contact 211 at 877-541-7905 (Texas Information Referral Network) You will need to provide your name, address, primary phone, primary language, and specifics about your health and home that are vital for emergency planners and responders; e.g., medical equipment, gate codes. It is also helpful to include information about any caregivers and pets. Your information will be kept confidential.

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INFORMED AND PREPARED The City of Jarrell is a partner in the

WARN CENTRAL TEXAS emergency notification system, powered by Everbridge. Sonterra will soon be a designated community after a recent board vote to implement the system. If you wish to stay informed and receive all official emergency alerts for Jarrell, Sonterra, and surrounding areas, you can sign up at Warn CentralTexas.org. natural disasters weather warnings (storm, flash flood, etc.) evacuation notices bio-terrorism alerts boil water notices missing child reports

The program allows you to set up specific, custom alerts for multiple addresses, cell phone numbers, and/or email addresses.

You choose your preferred delivery method(s) in the registration process to protect your family, property, and yourself.

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W O R T H TH E D RI V E

The Texas We Love...

at the Taylor Rodeo Rodeos may not be ranch vs. ranch any

more, but prepare for a taste of what makes Texas, Texas and famous across the world. The Taylor Rodeo Association is putting on their 71st annual rodeo July 15-17 at the Williamson County Expo Center, right in the hometown of Bill Pickett.

Board President Edwin Stojanik says the event is particularly exciting because it is an open competition, which means the riders, ropers, and racers just might be your friends or neighbors. It is also a CPRA- and UPRA-sanctioned event. As well, if you've ever envied the youngsters able to enter the Mutton Bustin' competition (below), all ages are welcome to sign up for the crowdfavored Calf Scramble or Wild Steer Saddling competitions.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Each evening, the event will open with flags and the kind of patriotic moments one might expect at a Western event, including trick riding by the Texas Cowgirls. Friday night will wrap with live music by Triston Marez, and Saturday, after the new queen is crowned, guests can stay for a George Strait Tribute Band. There will be food trucks all three nights, and there are still spaces available for vendor booths. (taylorrodeo.com) Edwin adds, while the

entertainment is old school, the technology is 21st century so bring your debit cards and your appetite. The rodeo events include a full complement of favorites:

bareback and saddle bronc riding steer wrestling women's breakaway, tie-down, and team roping women's barrel racing bull riding calf scramble for kids and adults wild steer saddling mutton busting

JULY 15 & 16, DOORS OPEN 5PM • JULY 17 • DOORS OPEN 4:30PM • WILCO EVENT CENTER 5350 BILL PICKETT TRAIL, TAYLOR • TICKETS START AT $12 (KIDS UNDER 4 ARE FREE) 22

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by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@myjarrell.com photos courtesy of Shelby Lynn Photography

THE ASSOCIATION Edwin says, "We believe in prayer and the flag and I love the kind of people we work with and entertain. This kind of camaraderie is the way Texas is." When not producing one of the nation's best smalltown rodeos, the Association stays actively involved in many community projects

and functions in Taylor, Thrall, Granger, Thorndale, and Hutto. Edwin adds, "We also support Dell Children's hospital, the American Cancer Society, and Special Olympics. Everything we do is for the kids; supporting youth and promoting the cowboy lifestyle."

In May, members were thrilled and thankful to have a sold-out crowd and 63 teams of barbecue masters compete—in wind and rain—in the first Barbecue Cook-off and Bull-nanza. Edwin says, "I'm grateful to Clint Chitsey and the expo center staff, our

WO RT H T HE D RI V E

County Judge and Commissioners, all the judges, fans, and pitmasters. Their efforts contributed to our mission to provide education financial assistance to graduating seniors in Williamson and Milam Counties. Students help us at our events and we help them pay education costs and buy animals. I am looking forward to handing out more awards at the Saturday night rodeo." Williamson County Judge Bill Gravel says, "I am excited to see this event returning to the Expo Center. The Taylor Rodeo is a taste of Texas with a hometown feel, and a reminder to me of what is important in America; our family, our faith, and hard work."

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NE IGH B O R L E I G H

If Our Founders had Social Media

have always loved the creativity of meme makers and bloggers who create modern takes on historical events. I'm sure you've seen the Christmas Nativity as told by Facebook posts. So Leigh decided to get in the groove too. This actually required a bit of study... most of us can remember the basics, but I enjoyed the trip down Civics101 memory lane for some of the more snarky details. Hopefully it's not so obscure that I'm the only one who gets it. Still, Miss Leigh went to college in Charlottesville and she's pretty certain, given the chance to enjoy a little 21st-century chaos, even Thomas Jefferson would roll his eyes and say, "Oh, whatever!" every now and then.

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JARRELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE No meeting in July – Have a Happy 4th!

Thanks to ACDI for being a trusted Platinum Member

JOIN THE CHAMBER TODAY! Visit our website to apply

www.JarrellCOC.com • info@JarrellCOC.com • 512-677-5501 www.JarrellCOC.com

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PA R T ING S H O T S

WCSPJ ARODEO 2021 R R E L L•TE X A S

Photos by Kurt Schaller

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P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON JARRELL, TX