My Jarrell Magazine • October 2021 by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

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2021

We B u i l d Co m m u n i t y • Un i t i n g 7 6 5 3 7

CREATING & CELEBRATING COUGAR PRIDE

p.10

IN MEMORIAM

SADDLE UP!

FALL FAMILY FUN

Remembering Constable Kevin Stofle

Williamson County Fair & Rodeo`

Halloween Happenings

2 O C TO B E R 2 021  Mthe Y JA R RJarrell ELL M O NT HLY Happily Serving Community! • 104 Town Center Drive • Jarrell

INSIDE

FEATURES 6 IN MEMORIAM

Williamson County Honors Constable Kevin Stofle

10 CREATING COUGAR PRIDE An Interview with Coach and Athletic Director Marty Murr

FAVORITES 4

PEOPLE The Story Behind the Stories of Fire Chief Mark McAdams

WILCO Williamson County Fair & Rodeo

FAMILY FUN Halloween Happenings

KIDS October is the New Year for Girl Scouts

HOMETOWN HEROES Jarrell's Junior National Bowling Champion

76537 LIFE What's on Your November Ballot?

NEIGHBOR LEIGH Shower Thoughts

WORTH THE DRIVE Georgetown Rotary's Field of Honor®

IN MEMORIAM

Hundreds of mourners; law enforcement, friends, and family members, honored and remembered Williamson County Pct. 3 Constable Kevin Stofle September 22

COVER STORY Celebrating Cougar sports with the District's new Athletic Director and Football Coach (photo by Lori Murr) cover photo by Marie Denson, courtesy of Jarrell High School

Get to know author and Chief Mark McAdams and the faith that has, literally, helped him walk through fire.

The Red Poppy Service Unit of the Girl Scouts wants YOU! photo courtesy Erica Edwards

photo courtesy Mark McAdams

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EDITOR'S NOTE | CAMY REYNOLDS

PUBLISHERS

Cathy Payne

Mike 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 1,000 members.

COMMUNITY LIAISON Janet Hage Janet Hage has been part of the Jarrell community for almost 30 years. She has been involved in community fundraisers, campaigns, and committees; volunteered with the JISD school district, and worked for the City of Jarrell for more than seven years. She is a development partner of NW Wilco, LLC and serves on the Jarrell Community Library Board of Directors. Janet focuses her energy on serving, giving back, and uniting the community in positive ways.

SENIOR WRITER Charlotte Kovalchuk

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Greta Bauer • Cassidie Cox

GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • David Valdez • Todd White

Fall is finally here! Well, at least what we Texans consider to be Fall. For me, "cooler" weather means (finally) being able to wear the ridiculous amounts of sweaters I own, roasting marshmallows over the fire pit with my kids, pumpkin spice everything, and some good ol' football. Speaking of football, have you made it out to one of our Jarrell football games yet? Our new Jarrell ISD Athletic Director and head football coach, Marty Murr, is doing a phenomenal job with our high school teams this year! If sporting events don't excite you, there are several other community events families can enjoy this month. From "You've Been Boo'ed”, to the Monster Mile, and Trunk or Treats, you're sure to find something fun and festive. Just a short drive over to Taylor and you can partake in all the festivities that the Williamson County Fair and Rodeo has to offer, and the Field of Honor exhibit is in Georgetown in November. Both are definitely worth the drive! We always like to shine the spotlight on those in our community who are doing awesome things. The name Mark McAdams is known around town as Fire Chief, but now he can add author to his list of achievements. You will also be inspired by Jaelle Hamman's tenacity and dedication to her bowling career and how she "struck" a scholarship in the lanes. I couldn't end without reflecting on the life of Constable Kevin Stofle and the impact he has made in our community and in all of Williamson County. He personally held a very special place in my family's heart and we wanted to pay tribute to his service to the community, dedication to keeping us safe, and his larger-than-life personality.

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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All the editors and staff of My Jarrell Monthly are pleased to have been able to support and sponsor the first annual fundraiser for the Jarrell Community Library. Hosted by The Granary, the event was attended by hundreds of residents and bibliophiles, and raised much-needed funds to support operations at our growing library. Thank you, Jarrell!

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PEOPLE

by Charlotte Kovalchuck photos courtesy of Mark McAdams

Fire Chief Pens Stories of Firefighting and Faith be ready to face the heat. It reminded him of Ephesians 6, where Paul urges Christians to put on the full armor of God in the war against evil. “I need to look at how well I am ‘checking’ my armor when it comes to fighting the spiritual fires that confront me and those around me. We should make sure the armor is in the right condition and always ready to do battle,” says Mark, who retired as fire chief last November before returning when his successor moved on. “It’s like I never left. I don’t have much luck at retiring, I guess.”

THE MEMOIR

he Jarrell duplex fire was a routine call for Mark McAdams and two fellow firefighters. But, as they fought through the flames and darkness that night, Mark felt a searing pain spread across his left shoulder. Later, he shed his gear to find three blisters, a result of old equipment and, he realized, pride. “I liked my dirty old bunker gear. I felt that I looked ‘seasoned’ in them. I preferred the melted tar on the shoulders and back of my coat and the frayed pant cuffs. I liked the soot-stained color. I certainly did not want new gear because that was what ‘rookies’ wore,” Mark says. That was more than 30 years ago, before gear life standards or cleaning rules. Not surprisingly, when he became Jarrell’s fire chief, Mark was adamant that his firefighters wore proper, well-maintained gear to

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Mark's gear story is just one of a collection of homilies in Firefighting and Faith, a book inspired after Mark began posting tales on the Firefighters for Christ Facebook page. He recounted many from his 35-year fire career and the spiritual parallels he discovered along the way. “I would be reading my Bible at night, the Lord would move on my heart, and I would just start writing. As I read the scriptures, I just feel like God will show me the parallels in my life.” From lessons about brotherhood as Christians and firefighters to the need for endurance to fight spiritual and literal fires, Firefighting and Faith is meant to encourage everyone, not just firefighters. “It’s to help people to see how God doesn’t just speak from a preacher on Sunday. He speaks in life. God is with us all the time, in all the experiences we have. God shows himself if we’re willing to look,” Mark says. Firefighting and Faith is available for purchase from Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

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in memoriam

Constable Kevin Stofle b. 1959 End of Watch 9.13.2021

ith a heavy heart, Williamson County mourned Constable Kevin Stofle, who passed away suddenly September 13. His memorial service at Celebration Church was attended by hundreds of friends as well as first responders from Georgetown, Cedar Park, Austin, Round Rock, Texas DPS, and many others.  County Judge Bill Gravell, grateful to those honoring his friend, said: "Kevin Stofle was a man of faith, and the most honorable man I know. He was more than a dedicated public servant, he was a devoted and loyal son, brother, husband, and father. He was a protector; he served my court and protected me and my family at JP3—whenever we had court, he was never far. "When I was elected County Judge, the duty for that office traditionally falls to the County Sheriff but I always wished I could have Kevin and his team with me there too. The best way we can honor the life of Kevin Stofle is to give his family time and space to grieve."

rom September 13 at his home, to the IOOF Cemetery September 22, Williamson County Constables stood watch over Kevin—and his family—night and day. Safeguarding the family for 8 to 16 hours at a time, and taking leave for just four hours of sleep, they honored the man and a stirring law enforcement tradition.  Standing by a fallen officer is a tradition I have seen throughout my entire law enforcement career. Constable Stofle was my boss and my friend, which made it much more important that this tradition was carried out and done respectfully. The main significance is to ensure he is not alone. We guard his Earthly remains until we know and see that he is finally at rest. As a man who served his community for over 40 years it is only fitting that we should serve him by standing by 6

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Kevin previously served as Assistant Chief of Police with the Georgetown Police Department, and Emergency Management Coordinator for the City for ten years. During his long public service career, he had more than 33 years in law enforcement. Judge Evelyn McLean worked with him for 25 of those years. As JP3, it was her official duty to do the inquiry at his passing, but, as his friend, she says it was a solemn honor to stand by his side with his wife and children one last time.  "I can’t imagine work or life without Kevin. We agreed we made the best damn Constable-JP Team and he would want me to carry on and do it well. I honor Kevin by remembering the memories we created, the laughter we shared, and the advice he gave me through the years. "Whenever a conversation would make Kevin shake his head, he would start with, “Boy…..” So, in closing, I say, “Boy…..I miss you but I will see you again someday.” his and his family’s side throughout their hardest time. He was our family and we never leave our family when they need us the most. For me personally it was about respect. I stayed with him as he laid in the sanctuary for over 16 hours and did not leave his side. There may have been no one around, doors locked and lights dimmed, but he was not left alone. It was the least we could do to honor his service to this community.

~Roger Garcia Constable Deputy Precinct 3

in memoriam

 ears ago, soon after we moved to Georgetown, I chaperoned a field trip, and as I was sitting in my car alone, set to follow the caravan of drivers I remembered Proverbs 18:24, “He who has friends must himself be friendly…” and, at that, I got out of my car and invited myself to ride with some other moms. I met Laura Stofle in that car, and within minutes she said, “Have y’all ever heard of Celebration Church?” She invited herself, and I offered them good seats. I’m sure our church didn’t feel like the church Kevin had grown up in, yet the message was the same in a little different package. I obviously misjudged his tough exterior, because there has never been a couple who jumped into our fellowship more whole-heartedly. Before we knew it, Kevin was serving everywhere and making an impact on everyone he touched, from helping newcomers in our membership classes to leading a

variety of small groups for Law Enforcement families, financial groups, missions and outreach, and prison ministry groups. He is best known for leading our campus support team, which provides a world-class ministry of safety for all our guests and members. Kevin was the embodiment of a quiet professional; very humble, and, yet very effective as a leader on our team. Kevin loved to watch over the people and the House of God. Whenever the Church had a service or an event, Kevin was there, making people feel safe and cared for in his presence. On the night of Kevin’s death, a spontaneous memorial service was held at the foot of the 80-ft cross that sits on the church’s property. As news got to the teams that Kevin served on, a band of brothers and sisters gathered together and prayed, and wept as they shared about the huge impact Kevin had quietly made on each of their lives. The hill the church is on happens to be the location where Kevin proposed to the love of his life, Laura, over 25 years ago and before the existence of our church. Kevin found the special place we call Celebration Church before we did, and we don’t think that’s a coincidence at all.

~Pastor Lori Champion Celebration Church

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by Ann Marie Kennon photos courtesy JISD and Lori Murr

JARRE LL ISD

A GREAT START FOR COUGAR ATHLETICS What I hope to achieve, and see, is a community that is invested in all the things we are doing. When that happens, everyone gets more out of the school experience. I really appreciate the support I've received and I have long since bought into the quality programs we have here. My goal is that our kids will understand and want to belong to something bigger than themselves. Marty Murr JISD Athletic Director

n August, Marty Murr began his first full school year as head football coach and JISD Athletic Director. He has been teaching for more than 31 years at five high schools, has been the athletic director at four, and has coached every sport except volleyball. Superintendent Dr. Toni Hicks says, "With his experience and commitment to building leaders in his athletes and staff, Coach Murr is the perfect choice to take Jarrell ISD athletics to the next level." We sat down with Coach Murr to get to know him better and some of his plans for Cougar Athletics in 2021-22. Q: What made you choose Jarrell to continue your career in education? I love that Jarrell is a small town but the numbers in the school district are bigger. This is one of the few places where we have a large number of students from which to build and nurture our athletic program but we still keep the small-town feel. I really enjoy that. Q: How do you feel about job so far? I arrived in Jarrell on May 1 of this year and I started watching films right away. I knew there were some very talented players here at that time. I recognized that there are enough players here to build a program. That excited me and when I met Dr. Hicks and the administrative staff I got a sense and really adapted to the 'paint Jarrell blue' thing. That is the community—with a capital C—I was hoping for when I interviewed for the job. It makes Jarrell a great place to be and I have had a lot of buy-in from the kids right away.

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We did our summer workouts, we hired a few coaches and kept a few, but during summer workouts we had more than 100 kids every day. That was exciting to me as a coach because it showed that the kids were excited and they were hungry. When we finished the summer we had over 90 kids on the team. We have three teams each at the high school and middle school. We also have three volleyball teams and cross-country teams, so our numbers are up in all our athletics. We always try to recruit for each team but the kids are hungry and they want something good, so we're going to try to do that for them. Q: What is it about education, and your job, that you love most? I love teaching the kids, but I also like to build a program. I'm an umbrella guy; it doesn't matter if it's Ag, UIL, or band, we're all Jarrell and so we all fit under that umbrella. I'd like to see if we could get everyone on the

J ARRE L L IS D same page, because if the band program is good, it will make the sports programs better and vice versa. Same with Ag and UIL—it is a complete picture. I think, at a lot of big schools, you start to lose that. Once you get to the 6A level, there are just different entities within the school that don't connect. I want to see if we can put it all together in that way. Q: How would you describe your coaching style? Energy. My whiskers are gray, but I still feel like I bring enough energy to organize everything. I'd like to say I'm just as energetic as I was 30 years ago, but hopefully I still have enough that inspires others and we can all feed off of each other. I also like to hire young people—that's a big deal—who bring the energy and their own hunger to put an organized group on the field. I also believe attention to detail is important and that's what will help us grow and be successful. Q: What are your goals for the district this year? I want to create a total program that is inclusive for all sports. Obviously we want to win and have success, but, more importantly, I want the kids to understand the process it takes to be successful, because it's the same in sports as it is in academics, and working. Once we get our athletes to understand the process to win games, I think we can really be successful in everything. It's not just about winning, it's for them to understand what it takes to do it and sustain it.

Q: How do you support student-athlete model? It's important that students keep their grades up so they can play, but I also play a facilitator role. I ask myself how I can help our programs grow and help our coaches be better too. What can I do to help each program to be successful; that is a full-time job. Each athlete and coach has to be accountable in his or her own lane, but I ask myself what can I do as the athletic director to make sure we're getting there and give the coaches the tools they need to help their programs. Q: How do you think we're going to do on Friday? I think we're going to win! The thing with parents and fans is keeping an open door. Parent conferences are a great thing and I always tell parents, "If you don't fight for your kid, no one will." We expect that, and my hope is that when parents show up they are ready to solve problems and work together. I just want to make sure that everyone knows they can come up here to see me. Q: What can the community to help you? Just support all the programs in JISD. The community has been phenomenal and the atmosphere at our pep rallies and home games has been above what I ever expected. I'm really excited about it. Just come to the events and support what we're trying to do, and you'll get a sense of it too. Also, come visit us to tell us good and bad things; visit with us instead of Facebooking us. We're here to answer questions, good and bad. Our booster club—the Jarrell Cougar Booster Club—is open to everyone and we are hoping to grow the membership even more. It's all inclusive to girls and boys sports and all school programs.

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by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@myjarrell.com photos courtesy Clint Chitsey & Williamson County Expo Center

WILCO

Saddle Up!

The Inaugural Williamson County Fair and Rodeo

ome to a rich agricultural heritage, Williamson County has enjoyed an annual livestock show and rodeos in Taylor and Jarrell, “But what we’ve never had is a true county fair,” County Treasurer and Williamson County Fair Association President Scott Heselmeyer says. Scott, former County Judge Dan Gattis, and the Expo Center’s Clint Chitsey put their heads together to plan a county fair combining a rodeo, carnival, live music, food, and other family fun. Unfortunately, their plan for the 2020 Williamson County Fair and Rodeo got derailed by the pandemic. “It’s been a really challenging year-and-a-half for everyone,” Scott says. “We’ve been looking forward to having [the fair and rodeo] for quite some time. It’s exciting to be able to finally have it.” Kicking off this month in Taylor, the fair and rodeo will feature a carnival and pig races for the kids, a special mustang event for veterans, concerts featuring Roger Kreger and Tracy Bird, and local live music throughout each day. “The goal is to celebrate

Williamson County’s agricultural heritage through education and entertainment, and to have an opportunity for the community to come together in a fun and family friendly environment,” Scott says. “We’re really hoping it can be a good county-wide event and an event for families to come to, even just for part of the day and enjoy activities for some of the day, or to come for the day and the evening for the rodeo and concerts. There’s something for everyone.” To learn more, call 512-238-2101 or info@wilcofair. com. Scan the code for information and tickets.

OCTOBER 21-23 WILLIAMSON COUNTY EXPO CENTER 5350 BILL PICKETT TRAIL ∙ TAYLOR

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W IL C O

County Fair Attractions MUSIC

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Friday headliner: Roger Creager Saturday headliner: Tracy Byrd Make your way over to The Corkyard, where you will find the Local Talent Stage featuring an assortment of musicians and performers from around the Austin area. This stage is the perfect, cozy scene to have a glass of wine or a cold beer and listen to up-andcoming entertainment.

PATRIOT PRO MUSTANG SHOWDOWN The Williamson County Fair Association is partnering with the Mustang Heritage Foundation to showcase local veterans, wild mustangs, and professional horse trainers in the Patriot Pro Mustang Showdown at 7 p.m. Thursday. Veterans and professionals will present their mustangs through a freestyle theatrical performance displaying maneuvers with music, costumes and props.

BEER AND WINE GARDEN Unwind at The Corkyard and check out a wide array of beer and wines at the Williamson County Expo's patio. Try a range of domestic, foreign, & craft beers or pair a charcuterie and cheese platter to a new wine. Stop by to relax under the patio lights and soak up the atmosphere while listening to local talented musicians.

CARNIVAL Join us at the carnival grounds to enjoy the thrills the rides have to offer! Kids and families of all ages will enjoy the games and attractions of the carnival.

PETTING ZOO Ever wandered what a goat felt like? Head to the petting zoo filled with friendly furry friends for the whole family to enjoy!

LIVESTOCK SHOW The Youth Sheep & Goat show will be open to all youth exhibitors.

FARMERS MARKET Come experience farm-totable shopping on the fairgrounds! The Farmers Market will feature local vendors and farmers looking to delight attendees with fresh produce and artisan foods. Discover all the great things grown and made in the area! The Farmers Market is located in the Covered Expo by the Main Covered Arena.

The Arts and Crafts Vendor Fair inside the main Expo Hall will include handcrafted jewelry, arts and crafts, holiday decorations, and home goods from more than 60 amazing craft artisans and vendors.

RODEO Hang onto your cowboy hats—you are invited to witness the inaugural Williamson County Rodeo! Grab a seat and watch cowboys and cowgirls race to beat the clock. Riders from far and wide will be competing for cash prizes and prestige! Kids will also be able to join in on the fun in the kids’ mutton bustin' and kids calf scramble events.

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FAM I LY F U N

by Ann Marie Kennon ∙ annmarie@myjarrell.com

Getting in the Spirit-s

hile being "ghosted" by a sweetheart is a bad thing, and those playing a spectator sport or performing on a stage have always disliked being "boo'ed, " this Halloween tradition is actually a simple demonstration of friendship and neighborly good will.

BOO! Booing is a Halloween tradition of surprising neighbors with treats during the month leading up to the holiday. It usually begins in late September, ends Halloween night, and has been proliferating in the United States since the early 1980s. The game goes by many names, depending on location, including "Ghosting", "Spooking", and "Hobgobling." Technology has made it much more simple to Boo someone, and social media sharing has helped to bring much more attention to the craze. The ease of printing signs and easy online sharing has helped the game become more popular and widespread in recent years. It has even grown to the point that stores like Target and Etsy sell ready-to-go and personalized "You've Been Boo'ed" gift boxes to make it even easier to play the game.

PLAYING THE GAME Families sneak special treats onto neighbors' or friends' porches after dark with a note attached saying "You've Been Boo'ed". That family is asked to "boo" another family or two, spreading the fun. After being boo'ed, the family is supposed to hang a ghost in their window to signify they have already been "boo'ed." Boo-ing is also another means of allowing children and families to celebrate Halloween together. Concerns about safety, too much sugar, and unfamiliarity in new neighborhoods has led many communities to favor chaperoned parties or Griswold-style haunted houses, and Trunk-or-Treat events over the traditional October 31 door knocking. EDITOR NOTE: For some, if Boo-ing feels like another task to add to your already-busy list, we suggest putting up a "We've been Boo'ed flyer right away. 

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"Mom Tribe Jarrell" has already kicked off a "Boo" game so be sure to visit their Facebook group to get all the details and join in the fun. To join the group, simply answer a couple of questions about your family, and the admins will add you to the Tribe.

FAMILY FUN

MONSTER MILE: Get dressed up, bring the family, and come walk the track at the Jarrell High School Football Field. It’s a come-and-go event October 30th from 5-8pm. Many business, organizations, and churches will have candy and other giveaways along the journey of the Monster Mile! There will be other games, food and bounce houses too. There is still time for businesses and organizations to join the sponsor team. There is no cost to join—just scan the code to sign up to share your goodies with the crowd.

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FA M I LY FU N

Bobbing for Pumpkins

Scan the code to pre-register (recommended)

f you're looking for something different for your "pumpkin patch" experience this year, a short drive to Leander is the answer. The Leander City Parks and Recreate Department is sponsoring a one-of-a-kind activity at the Bledsoe Pool.

Mini pumpkins will be provided for children under 1 year old, while supplies last.

OH MY GOURDNESS

For more information, contact the Leander Parks and Recreation Department at 512-528-9909 or email landerson@leandertx.gov.

If you are already missing summer, you can jump into the pool to choose your pumpkin, or stay dry and scoop one out with the nets provided by the event staff. Then the fun really starts; paint, sequins, glitter and other supplies will be provided to create a gourdgeous work of art.

$8.00 admission for 1 + a large pumpkin $5.00 admission for 1 + a medium pumpkin

Saturday, October 16 10am-2pm 601 South Bagdad Leander

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CUSTOM

YARD SIGN DECORATION FOR A N Y SPECIAL OCCASION

LI0022951

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KIDS

by Ann Marie Kennon photos courtesy Erica Edwards

GIRL SCOUTS MAKE A DIFFERENCE Building confidence as we return to a life filled with friends and new experiences.

and discover ways they can have the greatest impact. Troops are organized by grade level and members still go on camp outs and earn traditional Life Skills and Outdoor badges, but today’s Scouts also work toward STEM, Digital Leadership, Entrepreneur, and Global Action badges, and even earn college scholarships.

CHANGING THE WORLD REQUIRES VOLUNTEERS

he Girl Scouts of America say if you find a troop near you, you’ll always have something to do. That is certainly true of the Red Poppy Service Unit, which has troops looking for new members and leaders in Jarrell, Georgetown, and Florence. They are especially eager to create new early elementary Daisy groups. Director Erica Edwards explains, “After a year of staying home, we are eager to give young ladies in elementary and middle school the opportunity to join our existing troops or build new ones with friends. The mission and values of scouting remains the same, teaching girls about independence and how to make a difference, but we are also diligent in making sure that our activities and achievements are relevant in the 21st century.” One of the unique things about Girl Scouts is the leadership opportunities they provide for all ages. Scouts choose their own experiences and team up with other girls to choose hands-on activities they find interesting. Along the way, they are given the reins to lead themselves, work within their schools or communities,

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Erica says her biggest challenge in a post-COVID year is recruiting parent leadership to guide the young ladies throughout the school year. “Our Scouting year begins in October and the great thing about this volunteer role is that it can be what you make of it. Most troops have co-leaders to share the responsibilities and if they want to meet weekly, or twice a month, they can set their own pace and schedule. Plus, each troop has support positions, like Treasurer, or Cookie Coordinator, that don’t require as much time. We are all busy moms, of course, but if your daughter enjoys it, it’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together. We just encourage those who can make the time to help us build troops for everyone who wants to participate.”

BE A PART OF IT Membership is very affordable, just $25 annually and the cost of one uniform. Erica says GSA provides financial aid as well. Scan the code to sign up or get more information.

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O C TO B E R 2 021  M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY

by Cassidie Cox • photos courtesy Jaelle Hamman

HO ME TO W N HE RO E S

Bowling for Dollars it is great to be in a new league and part of a group that is already close." Her team regularly spends time together outside of practices, which has helped bond them as a group of friends and, she says, has truly enhanced the experience.

ometimes a hobby turns into a lifelong passion, just as it has with Jaelle Hamman. Her devotion to bowling and 12 years of club play led her to the 2021 Junior Gold Championships in Indianapolis. There, she went undefeated, earned 2,800 points, and ranked first out of 639 bowlers in her division.

TALENT TO SPARE

Jaelle's superlative performance earned her a scholarship, and she is now enjoying college life as a freshman at Mount Mercy University.

IN THE LANE Raised and home schooled in Jarrell, Jaelle started bowling when she was 6 years old. “Professionals usually start when they’re even younger, but that's when I saw my older sister playing and I told my mom, ‘I want to do that.’ She put me in a league right after that.” Jaelle trained at Mel's Lone Star Lanes in Georgetown and USA Bowl in Dallas, and traveled on weekends

to tournaments all over the state because she loves the challenge of bowling in a league. “I’m a pretty competitive person. The individual elements of a bowling league allowed me to test myself in a fun atmosphere, while also working towards the scholarship." Having arrived at her university, she is excited that her bowling community and connections have grown. "I was homeschooled," she says, "So

Jaelle plans to study business but has no plans to stop bowling while she advances to her degree. She credits her coach of 12 years, John Hood, for his influence toward her dedication and commitment. “He really inspired me to keep going. Without him I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today.” She says the training and constant traveling can be taxing, but she takes it all in stride. Having worked most of her life to reach this point, she and her family and friends are celebrating how far she’s come, and are eager to see what she will achieve next.

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21 21

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@myjarrell.com

7 6 5 3 7 L I FE

"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.

Civics 101: What is on my ballot? YOUR LOCAL VOTE COUNTS MORE

Those who live in Sonterra pay taxes to the MUD District and have the opportunity to vote for individuals who set that tax rate and spend that revenue for the benefit of that local area.

Next month, Jarrell has an opportunity to go to the polls again. Nationally, when there are no Presidential candidates, voter turnout is low. But, by percentage, residents have a lot better chance of making a difference on the City Council dais than they do in Washington DC. Consider how much the President of the United States affects your life on any given day? The Governor? Senators and Representatives? Daily...they really don’t. But there are also people who fix the potholes, build the stores, determine what your children will learn, and decide how your taxes are going to be spent. Those are the candidates who win and lose local elections, in off-cycle years, most often by less than 100 votes. Citizens need to be aware, or remember, that it is the off-cycle, small elections that most directly and frequently affect their families and wallets; i.e., City Councils, School Boards, and Commissioners Courts determine the tax rates paid every year. Being involved and voting locally means finding out about planned projects and programs before they hit social media and it's too late to change the course of action. Ponder this... do you prefer leaders to build for more retail and restaurants or to build more parks? That's a Council action that may actually change when or how often you go out or spend money in Jarrell.

Fortunately, you can read about candidates 24 hours a day on the Internet, and even see a photo of them so you know what they look like.

Everyone in the 76537 zip code pays the largest portion of their property taxes to the Jarrell ISD because all children attend school in this district. As such, all residents are eligible to vote for School Board Trustee positions.

JARRELL SCHOOL BOARD

If you are a parent, and your kids go to school here, school board elections have a lot to do with the kinds of courses your kids can take, or the type of preparation and opportunities they will have for life beyond the 12th grade. That doesn't just hit close to home, that is home.

• Elected position with 3-year term limits; • Meetings once a month; special meetings as needed; • Candidate Place eligibility is based on residence;

WHICH OFFICES ARE ON MY BALLOT?

• Elected position with 4-year terms; • Meetings once a month and special meetings throughout the year; • Seats are at large; candidate must live within the Sonterra MUD;

Many people ask, 'Why are some people on my ballot and not others?' The answer is based on geography and ad valorem taxes. Everyone in 76537 lives in Williamson County and pays property taxes to that entity to provide roads, services, and programs. Those who live in the Jarrell city limits pay taxes to the city and receive services from that municipal body. Therefore, they have a say in how those taxes are collected and spent when they vote for City Council and Mayor.

ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 2 O C TO B E R 2 021  M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY

SONTERRA MUD BOARD

JARRELL CITY COUNCIL • Elected position with 2-year term limits; • Meetings once a month and special meetings when needed • Seats are at large; candidate must live within the Jarrell city limits.

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any kickboxing gyms help people on their fitness journeys, whether for self defense, training for competition, or getting in the best shape of their lives. But not all of them are run by a retired kickboxing champion skilled in the ancient art of Muay Thai—considered the most powerful striking technique used by kickboxers and mixed martial artists around the world. Kru (coach or trainer) Wrath’s passion for Muay Thai began when he realized he looked like he was in great shape from years of weightlifting, but he couldn’t touch his toes or run a mile. Watching a Muay Thai fight

inspired him to master the technique and ultimately become an IKKC Heavyweight Muay Thai US Kickboxing Champion and trainer. He now plans to bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to Jarrell to help others achieve their fitness, self-defense, and competition goals at Monster Makers Kickboxing, Boxing, and Fitness. Known as the art of the eight limbs, Muay Thai uses 10 points of attack— fists, feet, shins, elbows, and knees—to act as weapons in combat, a fighting style used by the Thai military for centuries.

MIGHTIER THAN A FIGHTER Muay Thai does more than just make good fighters. “It’s a confidence builder and stress reliever, and it improves

your overall health,” Kru Wrath says. “When you hit that bag or mitts, you forget about the hard day you had. It’s really hard to think about it when your arms are tired and you’re breathing heavily.”

ALL ARE WELCOME Kru Wrath says not to worry about being in shape when you walk in; “I’ve had people of all sizes, shapes, and fitness levels and abilities. I can work with anybody.” At Monster Makers, students learn the right way to kickbox. “It’s not just people wailing away at bags with no one correcting form or teaching how to do it properly. That won’t happen at my gym.”

GRAND OPENING Monster Makers Kickboxing, Boxing, and Fitness welcomes everyone to celebrate its grand opening with kickboxing and boxing classes for folks ages 6 to 60 and a haunted house for kids Oct 30, 11am2pm at 200 County Road 606, Suite 3301 in Jarrell. They will also have a licensed massage therapist on site who trained in Thai Massage in Thailand. She will be offering 15 minute chair massages during the grand opening. To sign up for classes, scan the code or contact 737-471-3414. During its first month, Monster Makers will offer active military, law enforcement, and firefighters 25 percent off a one-year membership. O C TO B E R 2 0 2 1  M Y J A R R E L L M O N T H LY

N E I GH BOR LEIGH

Shower Thoughts S

ometimes I use my shower time to pray. I could go all English-major on it and say it's all about cleansing the soul and body together, but it's really because I have a short attention span and there's not much multitasking to be done in there anyway. Unless there's a hair stuck on the wall and I can spend five minutes trying to aim the shower head at it. Still, the lack of focus will kick in eventually and my holy intentions turn to ridiculous thoughts... like the fact that biscuits and gravy are just wet flour poured over dry flour.

If you replace the W with a T in What, Where, and When, you get the answer.

Other thoughts do sometimes include my English major. For example, next time you feel like you want to criticize someone who doesn’t speak English well, think about these sentences…

Well, since the answer is probably a “butt-load”... I found out that is an actual measurement. Based on English wine units, a butt-load cask holds 126 gallons, nestled between the “Tun” and “Puncheon” sizes. You're welcome.

Though rough, the dough-faced, thoughtful man, after falling into a slough, coughed. Later, he sloughed his skin with a bough while walking through the borough. He then slipped on a brooch on the floor, spilled his food, and bloodied his foot. Cooperative, isn't he? The Creator heard the heartbeats of sweaty creatures from above the Earth. When someone tells me to hold my horses, are they implying that I need to be more stable? In the ruining my childhood column… ever consider that The Wizard of Oz might simply be Nietzsche's “eternal recurrence” in which Dorothy will forever wake up from her dream, the tornado is always on the way, and she has to walk the yellow brick road until she reaches the right conclusion without murdering witches? Also, The Lion King is essentially the same plot as Hamlet, but it’s much more fun with cute animals. Speaking of animals, octopi are really wet spiders. I'm probably glad there isn't a flying version. This didn’t actually ruin any part of my life but finding out stripper poles actually spin… it’s not the super athletic dancer making her body move around it… is kind of a disappointment. 24

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Self driving cars will not need windshield wipers. I think lights might also be optional until everyone else is driving them too. Does anyone ever click on the 3,000 ads that pop up on the 42 one-sentence pages of every click-bait "You won't believe..." headline? How much are those people spending?

Having robots do some of our jobs better than we do sounds like a great idea, until we no longer find extra fries at the bottom of the bag. When we started out, our belly buttons were our mouths. Since the day I began using my mouth and my mouth, I've woken up 19,345 times and I'm still not good at it. All my life I was told never to get in a car with a stranger. In my 20s they said don’t meet up with people from the Internet. Then someone invented Uber. They also told me not to believe everything I saw on TV. Now I have to tell my mom not to believe everything she sees on Facebook. My least favorite advice: Just don’t think about it. You’ll feel better in the morning. Don’t let it bother you. In my 20s, I partied to music on speakers large enough to be furniture that shook the house. Today, I listen to that same music silently through what are essentially hearing-aids, while I do housework. Finally, I realize I didn't say any prayers for people who need them and then I feel bad about wasting water so I pray for rain.

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181 Town Center Blvd • Suite 200, Jarrell | Inside Southern Sun Tanning / Misa Jane Boutique O C TO B E R 2 0 2 1  M Y J A R R E L L M O N T H LY

WORT H T H E D R I V E

by Ann Marie Kennon • photo courtesy Jeanne Cox

The Cost of Freedom is Written on the Wall Experience the Vietnam Wall at the Field of Honor®

he Rotary Club of Georgetown is paying tribute to our valued veterans, active and reserve duty military, first responders, and K9 heroes at the fifth annual Field of Honor®. All are welcome to visit and participate, starting with a spectacular opening ceremony at San Gabriel Park; 445 E Morrow St. in Georgetown on Sunday, November 7th at 1pm. There will be fly-overs, cannon fire, military and emergency vehicles on display—even a tank. Throughout the week, night and day, visitors may take photos and walk among the 1,500 full-size United States flags on display, including 27 historical flags flown throughout American history.

HONORING ALL This year, for the first time, the event will include the “Cost of Freedom” American Veteran Traveling Tribute (AVTT). This emotional display includes the 80 percent replica of the Vietnam Wall and 72 additional panels that pay tribute to Veterans of all other wars and conflicts. The tribute has been part of more than 300 events across the United States over the last 15 years. Nathan Winstead, Rotary Club President said, "We are honored to be able to offer this special new addition of the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall. We greatly appreciate all our donors for allowing us to make the new addi-

O C TO B E R 2 021  M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY

tion and welcome all visitors to the field. We will never forget the sacrifices our veterans have made to preserve the freedom we have in the United States of America." The week’s events will commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and the 100th anniversary of the First Cavalry at Fort Hood. The Marine Corps League Detachment 1022 will also hold their Birthday Cake Cutting Ceremony at the field.

EVENTS & DETAILS Purchase and dedicate flags, $40. Repost flags from prior years for $20. Re-post flags must be in perfect condition. Scan the code to purchase. Watch or help set-up of the field and the Vietnam Wall, Nov. 5 Field of Honor® Nov 6-14. San Gabriel Park, free of charge. Bring a camera to their 16-ft observation deck. Opening Celebration: Sunday, Nov. 7, 1pm Veterans Day ceremony, Thursday, Nov. 11 Nathan Chapman Honor Walk (philharmonic), Sunday, Nov 7 at the Klett Performing Arts Center. Ticketed events can be purchased online beginning Sept 15. Evening BBQ, Saturday, November 13 in the tent with music, dancing, a bucket raffle, and more. Don't miss their Quilt of Valor ceremonies, photography contest, and many amazing displays in the tent throughout the week.

JARRELL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE October Networking Luncheon WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2021 @ 11:30AM

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O C TO B E R 2 0 2 1  M Y J A R R E L L M O N T H LY

O C TO B E R 2 021  M Y JA R R ELL M O NT HLY

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ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON JARRELL, TX

My Jarrell Magazine • October 2021

Articles inside

76537 LIFE

HOMETOWN HEROES

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