Georgetown View Magazine • January 2021 by Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

geo r get own v i ew W E B U I L D CO M M U N I T Y

JANUARY 2021

NO ONE PERSON CAN DO EVERYTHING, BUT EVERY ONE OF US CAN DO SOMETHING. ~ Christine Caine, A21 Chief Advocate

BY PRESIDENTIAL DECREE, JANUARY 2021 IS NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH

I’m here for you, your questions, and to earn your trust.

In the time I’ve called the area home, I’ve had the pleasure of helping investors work toward their financial goals. And now, with Schwab, I have more ways to help than ever before. So give us a call at 512-876-2390 and let’s discuss how we can help you and your family. Eric Johnson Georgetown Branch 1225 S IH 35, Suite 125 512-876-2390 schwab.com/georgetown

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FEATURES 10 HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH A Global and Local Profile 20 ERIC LASHLEY A Georgetown Icon is Becoming a Texas Champion 50 WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”? Fairs, Festivals & Feasts

FAVORITES 8 EXPERIENCE GEORGETOWN Georgetown Newcomers & Friends Club

18 AROUND TOWN Meet the Williamson Museum’s New Director 24 EVERYBODY HAS A STORY Vote for Father Bertie Pearson 26 NEW NORMAL Resolutions 30 SAVE THE PLANET SU’s Sustainability Program 36 HEALTHY HABITS Resolution Hacks 39 SHELTER STORIES New Year, New Home 55 FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Deep Thoughts

INSIDE

42 THRIVING AFTER 55 A monthly, special section highlighting the people and lifestyles that build quality of life for us all.

42 KEVIN TAYLOR Williamson County Guitar Society

Sparkles, and many like her, are hoping you’ll want to foster her. There’s still time for her to have a Home for the Holidays at WCRAS.

44 NUTRITION Undereating 46 FAITH IN ACTION Ready To Roll—To Help Neighbors in Need 48 JOSIE ZAMORA Persevering for “A Gift of Time” Pictured: Julia and Kevin Taylor at their

Can you see yourself in this “selfie box” at Celtic Viking studio... at a birthday party, in a cap & gown, wearing a bridal gown?

home in Georgetown.

57 POPPY TALKS Upsides of 2020 60 FOOD Winter Wellness Recipes 64 PARTING SHOT Celtic Viking Studio

ON THE COVER A representative image of human trafficking; the buying and selling of people and children, around the world, for labor or their bodies. January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention month. Story pp 10-13.

Visit our Facebook page for follow-ups to these stories, outtakes & hints to those upcoming... GeorgetownViewMagazine J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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104 Copper Lane Jarrell 512-746-2333 105 Western Sky Trail Jarrell 512-598-3900 4802 Moreland Dr. Georgetown 512-868-8300

georgetown view Published by Optimus Media Group, LLC

ANN MARIE KENNON EDITOR’S NOTE Happy New Year! Even though not much is new, just the collective sense that January 1 brings some kind of change to all of us is enough to give me a notion of renewal.

PUBLISHER

Cathy Payne

cathy@georgetownview.com 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 fulfilment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Georgetown View, Cathy oversees multiple news magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.

EDITOR Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@georgetownview.com

While not a native of Texas, Ann Marie is at home here. With a quarter-century of writing, reporting, and marketing behind her, she not only writes about Georgetown, she dove into community service almost as soon as she moved here.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charlotte Kovalchuk • Miranda Bradley • Greta Bauer

As I am writing this, my neighborhood is experiencing a power outage and I am reminded how infrequently I remember to live in the moment, and to be amazed at many things that are just part of “the background” in everyday life. Nothing pushes you to live in the moment more than watching your laptop battery dwindling to zero with no thought of what to do next without devices, lights, or even appliances. I suppose, while I generally eschew resolutions, I have just decided I will make some lifestyle alterations that will make a power failure less of a showstopper. This year I will try to live, once in a while, like it’s 1921. For instance, perhaps I can take up acoustic guitar with the folks from the Wilco Guitar Society—this chat was a lot cooler than a typical interview!

GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • David Valdez • Todd White SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES Debbie Tolliver IT / WEBMASTER Jesse Payne DISTRIBUTION David Schumacher CONSULTANT W. Ben Daniel

ADVERTISING Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-598-3500 mark@georgetownview.com

Georgetown View is an Optimus Media Group, LLC publication. Copyright © 2021 All rights reserved. Georgetown View is published monthly and individually mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Georgetown, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to View Magazine, P.O. Box 203, Jarrell, TX 76537.

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We also invite you to learn about the stain of human trafficking during January’s awareness and prevention month. It is not just something than happens in other countries, and we are fortunate to have a senior executive of A21 right here in Georgetown to tell us what we can do to make a difference in our own communities. Much of this issue is about new things; new friends, new homes, renewable resources, new career adventures, and resolutions. And, however you may be celebrating or fretting about the new year, I’ll just leave this quote from Billy Graham right here... “I’ve read the last page of the Bible, it’s all going to turn out all right.”

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experience georgetown

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com photos GeorgetownNewcomers.com

Newcomers & Friends of Georgetown Where Neighbors Become Friends

espite the name, no matter how long you have lived here, the Newcomers & Friends of Georgetown club is for you. Founded in 1973, they are a social group whose mission is to introduce new residents to our city, and all the reasons it is the best place to live, work, and play. On the flip-side, members who are longstanding residents of Georgetown get to meet new people on a regular basis, plus share their thoughts on “What’s the best...” and “Who should I call for...” Publicity Chair Susan Barton says, “We are really about making new connections through special interests and shared experiences. We have a fantastic group of nearly 200 women and men from all over Georgetown, originally from all over the country, with diverse backgrounds, who are looking to make connections in retirement or as new residents.”

MEMBERSHIP The Club meets on first Thursdays, September through May, at various locations around Georgetown, in order to support local businesses. Meetings incorporate speakers, lunch, and door prizes; there are additional seasonal events for holidays, plus an annual fashion show that features and supports local retailers. Most monthly meetings include a speaker and, as a gratuity, the club makes a $100 donation to the speaker’s chosen non-profit. If that isn’t enough social activity for you, there are also Coffee & Conversation meetups, special interest groups, socials, and day trips. Dues are just $25 annually, and include all adult household members, plus social media, and a month-

A day-trip to Salado Glassworks in early 2020. 8

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Above: November meeting at Berry Springs Park Right: A sneak peek at the number of opportunities this busy club has for friends to get together in January.

ly newsletter. “We welcome everyone; it’s just a great way to meet new friends,” Susan adds. “Prospective members are welcome to attend a meeting to check us out and make a new friend or two. We are not affiliated with any groups or organizations, so we have no agenda other than simply creating warm connections.”

SPECIAL INTERESTS Outside the regular club schedule, members are encouraged to meet up with others who share their interests. Susan explains, “We have 44 special interest groups; with great names like the Cellar Dwellers wine lovers and Reel Women movie fans. We have groups that work out, play golf or bunco; enjoy scrapbooking, cooking, or making greeting cards, or share a love of history or craft beer. If there isn’t a group you want to join, we hope you will start your own. When you want to do something fun, you can always find someone who wants to go with you.” For information or to sign up, visit GeorgetownNewcomers.com, attend a meeting or Coffee & Conversation, or email Newcomers@GeorgetownNewcomers.com. All are welcome.

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awareness and prevention

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Abolish Slavery Everywhere and Forever

IF YOU RESOLVE TO DO EVEN ONE THING TO MARK NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH, THE SINGLE BEST ACTION YOU CAN TAKE IS TO LEARN HOW TO SPOT THE SIGNS OF TRAFFICKING.

BY PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION, JANUARY 2021 IS NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH

THE PROBLEM Right now, people are being bought and sold against their will in every country around the world. This illegal trade, recruitment, control, and use of people for their bodies and labor is called Human Trafficking. At $150 billion a year, it is the world’s fastest-growing criminal enterprise; a criminal can only sell a drug or a weapon one time, but he can sell a person indefinitely. The Attorney General of Texas reports, at any given time, there are 79,000 child and 155,000 adult victims in our state alone. Across the globe, there are more individuals enslaved today than any other time in history; 5.4 out of every 1,000 people. But, thanks to organizations like A21, slavery is more stoppable than ever before.

THE SOLUTION Since 2008, Christine Caine and her husband Nick have been working to do the impossible; create a world where men and women are no longer sold for labor or sex, and children are not exploited. As founders of A21, 10

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they developed a global strategy to reach the vulnerable, rescue the victims, and restore survivors. Close to home, Michelle Parrozzo, A21 Senior Advisor of Strategic Partnerships, lives in Georgetown and says the organization employs a holistic approach to breaking the cycle of trafficking. “Reach is about preventing trafficking before it happens. A21 has curricula in place that are customized by region and country; one such program is written to Texas core education standards, and we are eager for any opportunities to share with Georgetown schools and community organizations.” Michelle explains the importance of recognizing the signs, and A21 provides examples of awareness to help students recognize when a person is being trafficked, including themselves; e.g., having limited freedom of movement or no access to medical care. They are also taught to recognize when they are being approached or groomed on social media. “It is difficult to quantify the results of prevention,” she says. “By continuing to equip people with information they need to stay safe—we be-

Christine Caine

awareness and prevention

Wikimedia.com/Commons

are taken and they are trafficked for sex or labor. Another tactic is the ‘loverboy’ approach, in which an isolated teen thinks she has finally found someone who cares for her but, over time, her ‘boyfriend’ takes increasing control over her life and eventually sells her for sex. Since deception is a key tactic for traffickers, education and awareness makes a difference. “The Reach aspect of our mission is super important,” Michelle adds. “If we can stop trafficking before it happens, we can prevent people from ever experiencing this horrific abuse.”

RESCUE lieve we will continue to see vulnerable people avoid situations of trafficking. Following, victim identification and assistance will increase, and survivors will be restored.”

CAN YOU SEE ME? To assist in that recognition, A21 offers many free and online videos that demonstrate common scenarios of trafficking, which equip people everywhere to be a part of the solution. This awareness campaign, Can You See Me?, is reaching millions of people, across several countries, every day. Within six months of launching this campaign in the U.K., A21 reported a 400 percent increase in hotline calls. Additionally, several investigations by law enforcement led to raids and the identification of trafficked victims. This success led to the campaign’s expansion into new locations in the U.S., South Africa, Mexico, and Thailand. In 2019, the campaign arrived in Texas (photo next page), with support and cooperation from Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Clear Channel Outdoors, law enforcement, and Senator Ted Cruz.

T R A F F I C K I N G H A P P E N S TO P E O P L E W H O A R E V U L N E R A B L E B E C AU S E N O O N E I S LO O K I N G F O R T H E M . “It’s not like you see in the movies,” Michelle says. “It is much less common for people to be abducted in dramatic ways; it often involves deceptive tactics.” Common examples are women and men ‘hired’ by foreign businesses for what they believe are legitimate jobs, but when they arrive at the new workplace, their passports

A21 works with local authorities in 13 countries to set victims free and also supports survivors who have bravely managed to escape on their own. According to Michelle, regardless of how a person came out of trafficking, A21 supports survivors through the legal process to hold traffickers accountable.

RESTORE A21’s restoration goal is to set survivors up for independence; working with each individual to provide tailored care plans designed around their goals and dreams. “Restoration is a process,” Michelle says. “In some cases, it can take months or years to regain independence. But this stage is so important; it equips survivors to take steps toward the life they want. For some, that might be going back to school and completing their education, for others it’s being reunited with family, starting their own business, or getting a job. And, at the core of this restoration strategy is the Freedom Center.” The Freedom Center is a drop-in day center that provides survivors access to services like counseling, life skills courses, job training, health services, and more. For their efforts, A21’s Freedom Center in North Carolina received the 2020 Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts in Combatting Trafficking in Persons, which is annually awarded by the State Department. Here in Georgetown, The Key2Free (TheKey2Free.org) is committed to the mission to prevent and end sex trafficking through education, awareness, and aftercare for survivors. Our local non-profit is dedicated to restoring survivors to healthy lives and a place where they can hope again.  J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

around town

Lamar Advertising joined forces with Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and displayed A21’s ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign in more than a dozen cities in Texas, encouraging people who see or suspect trafficking to report it. (Photo: Facebook/LamarAdvertising)

Co-founded by Executive Director Amy Davis, The Key2Free works independently and also within a network of more than 100 regional organizations to create a safe, quality environment, provide access and referrals to community-based services, and educate the public and at-risk youth about trafficking. The Key2Free also provides safe housing for adult females, and non-residential services to a fully diverse demographic. All services are free to clients, including case management, medical referrals and counseling services, life skills classes, and educational support such as earning their GED or acquiring their driver’s license. Another restoration arm is the Sanctuary Project in Austin (SanctuaryProject.com), which provides meaningful employment and job training to women who have survived trafficking. Founded and run by survivors, the Project supports women in transition by teaching practical skills in jewelry making. Retail sales then provide revenue and profit, which allow the agency to be self-sustaining while creating future job opportunities and growth.

WHAT YOU CAN DO Visit A21.org/GetInvolved for resources and ways to make a difference. Educate yourself on what human trafficking looks like by taking A21’s Human Trafficking eCourse, hosting a local fundraising event to bolster awareness in your own community, or donate to be a part of A21’s global restoration work.

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR In the United States, trafficking often begins with grooming online or as a normal interaction. Michelle says, “A person pretends to be your age, promises to spend money on you, then asks you do to something ‘just this once.’ After that, he will threaten to tell parents or family that you’ve done something shameful unless you continue doing it. They lull you into a mental state from which you can’t escape, even though you’ve never left the safety of your own room.” She adds that, with COVID, online grooming is on the rise, as people spend more and more time in virtual conversation, commerce, and job searches, “We need to be vigilant as it is happening in plain sight”. Georgetown Police Sgt. Jamieson Allen says, “With the Internet, the potential threat pool is everyone on the planet with a phone. When it comes to your child’s safety, it is not snooping to read his or her chats and messages on games, Facebook, and Instagram.”

RED FLAGS Take note of messages clearly not written by native English speakers, or using language that seems inappropriate for the writer’s alleged age or situation. Conversations start with a simple “Friend me” in a social media platform or online game. They engage, console, and compliment; then steer to other things. Insist children never accept a friend request, share phone numbers, or agree to meet with someone you do not know personally.

Snapchat deletes photos, but criminals will screengrab, or take a photo of the photo with another phone.

addictions, untreated conditions. Be fearful of telling others about their situation.

Predators create programs to alert them when new members arrive in chat areas, or when keywords are typed; anything that indicates a person is looking for online affirmation, which they can exploit.

Be unaware they have been trafficked and believe they are simply in a bad job.

PEOPLE BEING TRAFFICKED MAY...

Be unpaid or paid very little.

Be fearful of police/authorities. Struggle to speak English words not related to labor or sex-related topics. Exhibit signs of physical and psychological trauma e.g. anxiety, lack of memory of recent events, bruising,

Have limited freedom of movement; always brought to and picked up from work by others.

Have few or no personal belongings; wear the same clothing most of the time. Seem to be in debt to someone, or unusually attached to a person who never leaves them alone.

CALL 888-373-7888 • TEXT “HELP” OR “INFO” TO 233-733 • VISIT REPORT.CYBERTIP.ORG

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around town

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com Photo courtesy The Williamson Museum

Nancy Hill: New Director of the Williamson Museum

She gives credit to all the care and development that came about under former Director, Mickie Ross’ leadership; “Mickie is a wonderfully passionate historian, which is what made the museum what it is today.”

ancy Hill, the new Executive Director of the Williamson Museum is a lover of virtually any kind of museum and seeks them out wherever she lives or travels. Georgetown is fortunate to call her “neighbor” and that she will take the helm this month at the museum. If you have ever eschewed visiting museums because they seem austere, imagine one run by a person with the smarts of Eleanor Roosevelt, and the zazz of a Kelly Clarkson you want to hang out with. Having moved to Georgetown last summer to be close to family, Nancy radiates an energy about the museum that is only outshined by her delight at living here; a place she says is “like the part in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ when things become technicolor.”

I F YO U H AV E N OT B E E N TO T H E WILLIAMSON MUSEUM IN A W H I L E , YO U H AV E N OT B E E N TO T H E W I L L I A M S O N M U S E U M . I T I S A LWAY S C H A N G I N G A N D P R E PA R I N G S O M E T H I N G N E W.

“I was disappointed to leave a job I had loved for 17 years because of the pandemic,” she says, “but I have embarked on a beautiful new chapter. I had already begun finding my way around Georgetown; signed up to be a volunteer at the museum, and the Preservation Society. Then, looking at job boards, I saw the posting for the Director job and just got a fullbody tingle. This is where my heart is, and I am ready to beat the drum out in the community, share this beautiful building, and partake in the passion of the amazing staff who run things so well they make it look effortless.”

IT’S ABOUT COMMUNITY Back in Kansas City, Nancy was the Executive Director of the Diastole Scholars’ Center. “I was responsible for engaging the community, using all the parts of our rather-complex machine. I have always loved the arts, and I believe keeping libraries and cultural aspects of our communities alive in a commercial world is as refreshing as it is necessary. If you feel drawn to it, it’s your duty to give it the love it deserves.”

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Nancy will begin her new mission January 8 as a student of the museum, immersing herself in the culture. “I am an idea factory so I am looking forward to working closely with our dedicated board, and continuing our strong partnership with the Williamson County Council. I also want to get around the county, with all the people willing to share our mission. After all, it’s not just the Georgetown museum, and there are so many wonderful stories about every little town and community in Williamson. My question for everyone is, ‘What do you want to know; what do you want to see?’”

Her vision is to be even more plugged in, get to know like-minded folks, and offer herself and the museum as resources for all. “Our staff is tremendously capable; I know they have everything under control and I can be the voice with the megaphone to share it.” In more concrete terms, the museum will be looking to renew and restore campaigns for new memberships and donors to help the museum come back even stronger after the pandemic. They also upgraded their video and online presence as part of the 2020 pivot, and will continue to strengthen and expand those even as operations get back to normal.

Plus, big plans are underway to create a very special 10th Anniversary Cattleman’s Ball, which everyone hopes will also be an in-person event in the Fall. Her eagerness is quite palpable when she talks about becoming the spokesperson for what she says is a “wonderful treasure. Because no museum should be relegated to being a ‘hidden gem.’” Nancy invites groups, schools, and organizations to call the museum (512-9431670) and prepare to turn up the volume on education programs and speaking engagements.

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eric lashley

story and photo by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Becoming a Champion for Texas Libraries

Eric Lashley will become the executive director of the Central Texas Library System after serving as director of the Georgetown Public Library for the last 20 years.

hen Eric Lashley walks into a library, he can tell pretty quickly if it’s a good one or if it needs some work. Does it have multiple entrances? An eating area? Does it trust patrons or have security cameras and gates? Does it allow organizations to host meetings outside of normal operating hours? Is it welcoming to all kinds of people? These are the keys to a successful, community-oriented public library, which Eric has learned during his 20 years as director of the Georgetown Public Library. Soon, he will pass on that wisdom to libraries across the state as the new executive director of the Central Texas Library System (CTLS), a nonprofit serving 218 member libraries across Texas. “People have really looked to Georgetown as a model and people have always called me and asked my advice,” Eric says. “I guess at this point in my career, I need to share that knowledge and philosophy of service to libraries across Texas and elevate libraries across Texas.” 20

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But with the excitement over his new role comes a bit of apprehension. “The first three months will feel like a, ‘What have I done?’ I haven’t had a new job in 20 years.”

SPREADING SUCCESS Over those last two decades, Eric has certainly put Georgetown on the map in the library universe, whether it’s through the National Medal for Museum and Library Service (facing page) or as Texas Librarian of the Year. Under his leadership, our library became a member of the Family Place Libraries national network, providing a welcoming environment with resources to help families nurture their children’s development. The library has regularly received Best-of-Georgetown awards for Best Place to Take Children, Best Meeting Venue, Best Place to View Art, and Best Place to Volunteer.

Having all that credibility inspired many other libraries to turn to Eric for advice, so his new position at CTLS is essentially a continuation of that role. It’s an opportunity that kept popping up as he served on the board of directors for CTLS and the interview panel to hire its new executive director. During the process, Eric grew excited about the prospect of sharing his library’s success model, which he will begin doing February 1. “It was the next step in my career that enables me to take what I learned from Georgetown and spread it across the state,” he says. But he will miss leading the library, with its community connections, devoted patrons and noisy environment that combats the strictly silent library stereotype. “Just walking in and seeing children cry when they had to leave the library—that was my goal,” he says. “I wanted kids to love the library so much they’d be crying and screaming because they didn’t want to leave.” As for his own departure, Eric assures that he’s not leaving the Georgetown community, and will find other ways to stay involved.

MORE THAN BOOKS “Thank God you’re coming. We need your help.” That has been the cry of many libraries across Texas after hearing the news that Eric will be leading CTLS. He’s certainly ready for the challenge, bursting with ideas to uplift libraries, such as teaching them how to ignite collaborative and supportive Friends of the Library groups and increase circulation through bookmobiles and home delivery service. “What I would like to see libraries do is expand their capacity to serve the public,” Eric says, adding that many libraries put themselves in a box and think the only place to operate is out of a building.

He also plans to ensure CTLS is a source libraries can call on for advice and receive training, launching regional meetings for libraries to connect and inspire new ideas, and encouraging libraries to see their building as a public asset. While Eric made sure the Georgetown library allowed organizations like neighborhood associations and clubs to gather at the facility outside of operating hours, many libraries don’t have that goal. “They don’t understand their building is one of the best assets for their community,” he notes. “It’s not about books. We’re great at that, but we need to be better about serving our community. A building is a great means to serve a community.”

ROLLING FORWARD While Eric is excited about his new role at CTLS, his one regret is that he won’t be able to bike to work anymore once he starts officing out of Austin. He plans to make up for it after retiring, though, with a statewide bike tour of the more than 200 Texas libraries, gaining and sharing ideas as well as posting videos and a blog to increase awareness of public libraries. As for the Georgetown library’s future, Eric expects it to focus on rebuilding after this year’s closure of programs, the beloved Red Poppy Café, and at the time of this article, the library itself. He remains hopeful that things will gradually return to normal with a new coffee shop and revitalized activities. He also hopes the new director will continue the great partnerships the library has with other organizations such as the Congregation Havurah Shalom, Georgetown Cultural Citizen Memorial Association, Native Plant Society, and Courageous Conversations. It’s a tall order for the next director, and they will certainly have big shoes to fill. “I wish the new library director well,” Eric says. “That person will have a wonderful staff, volunteers, and community to work with and I’m sure he or she will do a great job.” J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

everybody has a story

See and vote for Father Pearson’s “New Light” portraits at NPG.org.uk until March 31.

Portrait of Excellence WORLD-CLASS PHOTOS

Photos courtesy Bertie Pearson

ather Bertie Pearson is a man of passion. He has dedicated his life to the beauty and mysteries of God, but is also an amateur photographer who enjoys capturing the beauty of people, as we are all made in and reflect the likeness of God. As if that wasn’t cool enough for a priest, he put himself through seminary as a drummer and DJ. His current work, outside his service as Rector of Grace Episcopal Church, has been featured in exhibitions and publications across the country. In November, two of his photographs (above, right) were selected out of more than 5,500 entries from 75 countries for the Annual Taylor Wessing show at the National Portrait Gallery in London, the world’s most prestigious juried exhibition of portrait photography. Father Pearson says he has always enjoyed taking a walk with a camera (plus, a few thousand photos of his two children), but the world of contests is new to him. “I never entered anything before,” he says, “But, I decided if I never do it, I’ll regret it.” Two months later he was notified that two of his three entries were to be included in the global, virtual exhibit, and voting is open now to help him win the 2020 People’s Pick. “It is an incredible honor,” he adds. “The best part is that it has given me opportunities to talk about the Gospel; the relationship between God’s holiness and how artists manifest beauty in the world.”

Fr. Pearson grew up in Texas and spent many years in study and worship from California to Holland. When he returned to the Austin area, he observed his childhood home of Clarksville had changed from a working-class collective to a rather elite, white-collar area. His exhibit portraits are of Mr. Robert Bryant and Ms. Carnewia Spence, members of New Light Ebenezer Baptist Church. “They reflect the ways in which faith quietly counters cultural change. Although many original homes and buildings have been torn down, the churches remain unchanged as residents refuse to forfeit their houses of prayer.” The photos’ plain backdrop and closely observed detail, create a dignified record of the church community. “Photos are a fun way to explore my creativity, and sometimes a means to talk to people who may not have a relationship with Christ, as my work is often about light. Images of God in the Bible—the light of Christ, and the uncreated light of the Father descending as fire, or a pillar, are a glimpse of what God is like, as much as the subject matter of a photo.” His first love, however, is the priesthood. When not taking photos, and even when he is, he is eager to share the traditions of Grace church, and his love of people gathering together for love of God. “Our church family are dedicated Christians who take their relationship with Jesus very seriously, and I’m pleased with anything that causes my path to converge with others for His glory.” You can get to know Father Pearson on Sundays at Grace Episcopal, or follow his podcast GraceEpis.org/ education.

B E AU T Y A N D D I G N I T Y A R E I M P O R TA N T TO M E . I T ’ S S O E A S Y TO WA L K PA S T P E O P L E A N D I G N O R E T H E M , O R T H I N K O F T H E M A S A D V E R S A R I E S . I J U S T WA N T P E O P L E TO R E M E M B E R W E A R E A L L G O D ’ S H A N D I W O R K . ~ F R . B E R T I E P E A R S O N 24

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new normal

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Resolutions, Goals, and Wishes Talk to us, Georgetown...

ith a sigh of relief we say goodbye to 2020 and hope for better things this year. No doubt some of our resolutions may be different this time, extending beyond the usual weight loss and fitness goals. Maybe we are simply hoping to spend more time with loved ones, and be thankful for every new day. Enjoying time with friends outside Mesquite Creek Outfitters, Josh Olson wishes he might “wake up January 1 and COVID’s gone.” But his resolution is “to make next year better than this year.” Robert Stebbins is resolved to “keep enjoying life and stay positive,” while his wife Cherie is determined to have “no more dogs.” With five pups, the two feel they’ve reached their limit on furry friends. Trish Voigt is transforming her usual dieting aim into a goal to help restaurants. “Every year I try the weight loss thing,” she said while selling hair accessories at the city’s Market Day in November. This year, she wants to help small businesses stay afloat by getting more to-go meals from restaurants instead of doing her own cooking. “I hate that a lot of restaurants are struggling. I want to see my favorite places not go away. It’s heartbreaking. I know they work hard to stay open.” Lesli Fitzpatrick says she is a committed optimist and her resolution is “To continue to have hope in our country and our future.”

Top: Robert and Cherie Stebbins, Jill and Josh Olson and Albert Padilla spent a relaxing afternoon outside Mesquite Creek Outfitters. • Bottom: Rachel, her mom, Cindy and sister Sarah have fun during a Market Day.

For sisters and educators Rachel and Sarah, their goal is to persevere in their teaching. Rachel, a teacher at Cedar Ridge HS, and Sarah, a Hutto HS teacher, have had to juggle both in-person and virtual classes, which they say is a challenging learning experience. Since neither is certain about what might unfold in the 2021 school year, their goal is to “just get through it.”

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On the other side of the school desk, Jack Dombroski, a homeschooled senior, wants to grow in his faith, be less angry and judgmental, and win a competition for a full scholarship to Colorado Christian University. Sun City residents Sue DeVillez and Ann Bradley are resolved to learn something new every day and inspire others to have hope.

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save the planet

story and photos by Charlotte Kovalchuk charlotte@georgetownview.com

New Year’s Resolution: Help the Planet Leave Good Environmental, Social Footprints

hen you hear the word “sustainability,” you might automatically think of environmental activism like recycling and switching to renewable energy. But, as Veronica Johnson, Southwestern University’s sustainability coordinator says, it’s about so much more than just saving the environment. It also means addressing the social foundation by making sure everyone has access to basic needs; food, water, healthcare, and education, while not overstepping our planetary boundaries. “It’s about how we as a society can do more good, instead of doing less bad,” she says, adding that we need to meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their needs. “We’re on a finite planet and if we continue business as usual without taking a step back and looking at the whole system, we’re going to run into problems.” That has been SU’s goal for many years already, a mission maintained by students’ strong environmental

Veronica Johnson, right, SU’s sustainability coordinator, inspects seed balls with EcoRep Sophia Potempa (center) ‑and Andie Gunn at a wildflower planting event during Campus Sustainability Month in October. 30

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interest. But at times, projects would halt after their leaders graduated, leading to unsustainable sustainability initiatives. That’s where Veronica came in.

A GROWING PROGRAM In 2015, the Environmental Studies Capstone class and Environmental Studies Department chair Dr. Joshua Long proposed establishing the Office of Sustainability, which was created last year with Veronica at the helm. Since then, ten part-time student workers have come on board as EcoReps who lead the following initiatives: Food: Work with SU’s dining provider to promote and increase the sustainable food offerings and donations, research the feasibility of establishing an on-campus farmers market, create an on-campus food pantry. Energy: Research energy management systems, assess and evaluate individual energy conservation actions, research ways to make the campus fleet greener.

SUSTAINABILITY AT HOME

Sophia Potempa inspects seed balls.

Wondering how you can help the planet? Veronica shares some ways you can reduce your environmental footprint: Energy conservation: Apply weather stripping to your doors, have the right setting on your ceiling fan, unplug devices not in use, wash your clothes on cold. Food choices: Purchase organic produce, r educe intake of animal products, shop local a and at farmers markets, create a backyard garden. Water conservation: Take shorter showers, have native drought-tolerant plants, turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth.

Grounds: Create a 50-year tree planting plan, complete requirements for SU’s Tree Campus Higher Education and Bee Campus USA recognitions. Waste: Revive the campus compost program, re-purpose food waste into animal feed, encourage reusable over single-use items. Additionally, two part-time student interns serve as Sustainability Stewards, who help collect campus sustainability data for SU’s upcoming Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) report, and tell the story of the campus’ sustainability initiatives. Building a culture of sustainability at SU is Veronica’s goal. She is supporting student-led sustainability projects (EcoRep program), opened the Treasure Chest campus exchange store, which promotes thrifting and sustainable fashion; hosting Campus Sustainability Month events, retrofitting two residential halls with eco-friendly furniture, and pushing for a sustainable business class and well-being workshops. She also launched the Georgetown Green Film Series, which features films with an environmental focus. The Sustainability Office is also piloting feminine product accessibility and recently

Waste reduction: Purchase items in bulk with limited packaging, compost food scraps, buy reusable items (bottles, bags, utensils, etc.). Transportation: Use public transportation, drive an electric vehicle or hybrid, bike, or walk to places.

partnered with OrganiCup to distribute free menstrual cups to more than 150 students. Continuing sustainability programming hasn’t been easy during a pandemic, especially since many exciting in-person events like the fashion show and composting competition during Earth Month (April) had to be canceled. “It was really hard to figure out virtual ways of maintaining engagement,” Veronica says. But she and EcoReps got creative, expanded their social media outreach, and launched the Sustainability Webinar Series, starting with a bat appreciation webinar that replaced a bat house reveal ceremony. She also hopes to re-open the Treasure Chest store very soon and will post updates on their website and social media.

TO LEARN ABOUT UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT SOUTHWESTERN.EDU/SUSTAINABILITY AND FOLLOW ‘SOUTHWESTERN SUSTAINABILITY’ ON SOCIAL MEDIA. J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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healthy habits

compiled by Greta Bauer • greta@georgetownview.com

A Fresh Look at Resolutions

urveys across the nation indicate a lot of change in our focus on resolutions. Putting 2020 behind us has assured many that creating better budgets, saving more money, and learning a new skill may be more practical than losing weight or getting a better job. Studies show only 12 percent of people who make New Year’s resolutions feel like they were successful. The good news is that people who “resolve” are still ten times more likely to change their behavior than those who don’t. So, while you may have already missed your chance to start in December, which many experts say is a great way to establish the habit by the New Year, there are many ways you can still follow through. BE REALISTIC: The surest way to fall short is to make the goal unattainable. Resolving never to spend money on UberEats again will trip you up the first time you’re too tired to cook. Instead, work a goal that is attainable, such as allowing one uber night a week in your budget and sticking to it. JUST ONE: Psychologists suggest picking one resolution and focusing your energy on that behavior, rather than spreading yourself too thin among different objectives. Taking on too much at once can be daunting, and hard to maintain. BITE-SIZE: Break goals down to manageable chunks. Set clear, realistic goals such as mastering one Spanish lesson a week, saving $100 a month, or finishing a new book every two weeks. Each small success will empower you for more. MAKE A PLAN: Don’t overdo it January 2. If you’ve resolved to run a marathon this year, create a plan to run a little more each week and adapt your schedule to your progress. Plan menus to force yourself to learn how to cook one new thing each week, or a reasonable work adjustment, over time, to cut down on answering emails at home. 36

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MEASURE IT: Easy, if your goal is fitness or weight loss, but you may have to get creative for lifestyle behaviors. If, for example, you want to spend less time on social media, download a tracking app to keep you honest and reinforce your progress. TALK ABOUT IT: Explain what your goals are to friends or family and ask them to help you achieve your objectives. Better yet, enlist the help of others by joining a group that shares your goal. REWARD YOURSELF: No, you can’t eat a box of chocolates if your resolution is to eat a better diet. Celebrate your success by treating yourself to something that doesn’t contradict your resolution. E.g., if you have been sticking to your promise to eat better, reward yourself with an outfit in your new size. TRACK PROGRESS: Keep track of each small success, especially if your goal really has no “finish line.” Shortterm goals are easier to keep, and each small accomplishment will help keep you motivated. If you resolve for better health, get a 2021 planner and schedule a year’s worth of doctor, yoga, or chiropractic appointments. Crossing each one off the list is a visual reminder of success. KEEP TRYING: If you get to, say, mid-February and already feel like you didn’t stick the landing, don’t despair—start over. Recommit to it for 24 hours; you can do anything for 24 hours. Those increments will soon build on each other and get you back on track. If all else fails, you can resolve to buy a bunch of leftover 2020 calendars and enjoy burning them. We can all get on board with that.

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story and photo by Charlotte Kovalchuk charlotte@georgetownview.com

shelter stories

Foster Family Gives Cats a Holiday Home

rin Wygonik and her family have always had a heart for animals in need, whether taking in a stray cat, rescuing birds that fall in their yard, or helping injured pets delivered by neighbors. When she and her family came to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter intent on sharing their home, they couldn’t help noticing how many animals were in need. Having compassion for one feline that obviously needed lots of love, and embracing the spirit of Christmas, the Wygonik family gave not one, but two cats the gift of a home for the holidays. That gift is one Shelter Director Misty Valenta hopes will keep giving long after Home for the Holidays wraps up January 6. It allows adoptable animals to go home with a family for the holiday season. While the shelter does the best it can, it can’t compare to a real home, Misty says. Home for the Holidays allows pets to experience a home environment, which helps them tremendously, even if it’s just for a few months. “It’s getting the cats out in a good home to help them flourish,” Erin says. “It helps cats adjust to humans instead of sitting in a cage, so they have the opportunity to eventually have a family.” The program also provides companionship for foster moms and dads as well and relieves shelter staff who have to feed and clean after the animals during the holidays. “The fewer animals in the shelter, the easier it is on staff so they can spend more time with their families at home, which they deserve as well,” Misty says. They certainly have their hands full with 135 cats and 95 dogs. Thanks to the holiday program, a “small but growing” initiative, 11 of those are being fostered at the time of this article. Misty hopes at least 20 will find families this season, which might not seem like a lot, but “every single number matters. They can take in more animals if necessary. It allows staff to go home sooner once the animals are cared for. It makes the holidays a bit easier for everybody.”

Nick, Sydney, and Erin Wygonik have enjoyed fostering Trouble and Seymour for the holidays.

Most importantly, it increases pets’ chances of being adopted, either from the foster family or another animal lover who sees their adorable pictures on social media shared by the foster family. It looks like Seymour and fellow foster, Trouble—a playful cat that definitely fits his name—are headed for that happy ending. Now that the pair have become such a big part of the family, Erin says they will probably adopt both even though they had planned for just one. “Even though I’m the animal lover, my husband has the biggest heart,” she notes. “He said, ‘We can’t give back one now.’ ”It will certainly be a balanced pet household, with three cats as well as three dogs.” After seeing the cats’ growth, Erin notes Home for the Holidays is an opportunity for people to understand a pet’s true temperament, which is hard to assess when they are in a cage. “Looks can be deceiving at the shelter,” she says. Seeing that progress has been a joy for Erin. “In a short amount of time, once you remove them from the cage, the animal makes great strides—Trouble being gentle or Seymour coming out of his shell and being a playful, loving cat. That’s the most rewarding thing.”

TO CHECK OUT THE DOGS AND CATS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION AT THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY REGIONAL ANIMAL SHELTER, VISIT WILCOPETS.ORG. J A N UA RY 2 0 2 1  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

Thriving AFTER 55

“Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.” ~Hal Borland, American Author NEW SKILLS

Williamson County Guitar Society Page 42

WELLNESS

“Under”eating Page 44

FAITH IN ACTION Neighbors Ready to Roll Page 46

JOSIE ZAMORA Gives Thanks to her Team Page 48

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Guitar Society Nurturing Blooming Talent

THE GUITAR SOCIETY

f you’re thinking about using some of your time at home to learn a new skill, Kevin Taylor has something great for you. In 2019, he founded the Williamson County Guitar Society to bring a world of superlative acoustic guitar music to students and audiences in Central Texas. A world-class musician himself, Kevin has been creating guitar programs and curricula for nearly four decades, and has enriched the lives of more than 20,000 students.

The second part of the Society’s vision is growing interest, education, and enjoyment of the beauty of the guitar. “We are here for teachers, students, and aficionados,” Kevin says. “We will continue to develop concert series and education programs as there are a number of teachers who would like the opportunity to interact with people in Williamson County. We will be on mission as long as the Society exists and we have audiences.”

This month, he is wrapping up his first online class for beginning seniors in Georgetown. “I’m still a teacher and I wanted to do something for the community,” he says. “I know many who are teaching online in order to keep working, and it occurred to me an online program would be a wonderful vehicle for older folks stuck in their homes.” Thanks to an anonymous donor, Kevin was able to provide classes, at no charge, to 17 eager students, taught by Chad Iverson and his wife, Janet Grohovac, who live in Austin and teach guitar at the college level.

Kevin is looking forward to a time when audiences can gather again so he can book some of the world’s best players for house concerts and music series. “This is my professional domain and I know many national and international guitarists,” Kevin says. “I know I can get world-class artists to come and play. Several terrific artists added Georgetown to their world tours last year and, unfortunately, we had to cancel. Right now, I am still looking forward to having European virtuoso, Cristiano Porqueddu in July, who will be playing Carnegie Hall on his way to Georgetown.” Chet Atkins’ protege, John McClellan, will also be coming for a Summer concert. Once audiences feel secure and confident we can continue to bring the best talent to the area.”

Chad says his senior students have been a wonderful experience. “I am seeing everyone getting better week to week and I’m able to create the curriculum from what I see happening organically. Adult students care so much about learning and I hope to keep teaching like this into the new year.” Feedback from students was entirely positive as well, particularly because the best teachers no longer have to be nearby. Robert Muller says, “The Internet is a great way to learn the guitar, and it’s right in your home. I appreciate the Society making this opportunity available; it’s a great way to learn.” Joyce Edge agrees, “I have a medical condition and practicing several times a day has become a great new focus.” Stef Gorel adds, “I plan to continue these lessons as long as they offer them.” Students and teachers alike hope to impress these benefits upon additional donors, and plan to hold fundraiser concerts to help keep the program viable. Anyone may donate to help Chad and Janet continue to add classes and students at WilcoGuitar.org.*

*Don’t ‘fret’... the Society is 501(c)3 42

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Learn more, donate, and keep up with events at WilcoGuitar.org.

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Undereating is Bad for Us Too

iven all the attention to overeating, it’s easy to ignore problems that undereating might cause. Lack of energy, irregular emotions, and cognition are worth our attention. Regardless of age, our bodies need fuel to work effectively, and eating too little can result in difficulty fighting infection, diminished mental health, or muscle weakness. As we age, we are more likely to experience illness or isolation, which can make eating proper meals or getting enough food to maintain wellness problematic. We must also consider other effects of aging—loss of taste and smell, and appetite, can make seniors less interested in taking in appropriate calories and nutrients. Fortunately there are strategies to understand and address how standard nutrition may be modified to suit seniors’ unique needs. The new year is a great time to make plans for getting the calories we need or, if already under care for illness or injury, getting the nutrition to help us heal. While not an exhaustive list of strategies, some basics to follow include dietary supplements, in pill form or liquid meal replacements, the latter of which also adds needed calories. If homebound and unlikely to get sun exposure, extra vitamin D is known to help with chronic pain and help prevent heart disease. Include B12 to offset the difficulty in absorption from food as we age, since a deficiency is linked to dementia. Women and men experience bone loss as we age; calcium supplements are recommended for both. Our bodies have no trouble absorbing Omega-3 fatty acids, but our brain cells, the chief beneficiary, tend to have a hard time absorbing it as we get older. The amounts we get in our food may not be enough.

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While not a vitamin, our need for protein never goes away. Protein builds muscle mass, which helps us maintain activity levels and a healthy immune system. If lack of appetite is reducing your intake of food, there’s a good chance you won’t be getting enough protein. Mixing protein powders into shakes or using meal replacement drinks may help you stay healthy.

SAY YES TO PREPARED FOOD For seniors having difficulty preparing meals, premade food is still nourishment. Since seniors take in less food in general, it’s better to have nutrient rich foods like fruits and vegetables for the bulk of your diet, but if getting enough calories is a problem, microwaved meals and other items from the pantry and freezer are reliable to maintain energy. In fact, pre-prepared frozen fruits and vegetables can be a great source of vitamins and fiber.

MORE MEALTIMES A simple way to manage a loss of appetite and the slowing of the digestive system is to have frequent, small meals. Make a schedule for or leave healthy snacks within reach, plan second breakfasts and afternoon breaks. Studies show that people who snack during the day often also eat more at mealtimes as well. Remember, nourishment is a foundation for independent and quality living. Just as breakfast is the most important meal of the day, an adequate diet all day is a key for overall wellness.

Suggestions in the Georgetown View are intended for information and entertainment purposes. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a physician or other health-care professional for dietary advice.

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DRIVING IS MORE THAN J U S T A PA S S I O N O R A PA S T I M E — I T ’ S A L I F E LINE. STUDIES SHOW GIVING UP DRIVING C R E AT E S A H O S T O F N E G AT I V E S I N O U R L I V E S A N D, U N F O R T U N AT E LY, MOST OF US OUTLIVE O U R A B I L I T Y TO D R I V E S A F E LY.

Angela Ellis and FIAG volunteer Jim Jakubowski in 2019 • Photo courtesy FIAG

Faith in Action is Ready to Roll Imagine trying to navigate life without the ability to drive. Fortunately, we have Faith in Action Georgetown (FIAG), which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in service to Georgetown seniors. With their help, hundreds of seniors have access to transportation to and from medical appointments, grocery stores, and other support services—at no cost to clients. As a primarily volunteer organization, FIAG not only provides transportation and support services, they also create personal connections for all, in a time when social isolation is at its highest, which may cause depression and anxiety to many, including our vulnerable seniors.

SERVICES Miranda Bradley, Director of Development and Marketing, says “Many people move here in good health but they are away from family, so when a short- or long-term medical situation arises, where they can’t drive, we are here to help them get where they need to go.” Anyone over 65 is eligible for services, one-to-one rides and, this month, they also expect to re-engage their Go-Van-Go program with retrofitted plexiglass dividers to enable small group grocery shopping. In 2020, the organization also launched the Buddy Program, which connects homebound seniors with volunteers who call several times weekly to check on

wellness, or just chat to ease isolation or loneliness. Likewise, thanks to Go-Van-Go and other transport services, friendships are formed that last many years.

VOLUNTEERING “It’s very easy to get around when we have our own transportation,” says Executive Director Vickie Orcutt. “It’s just one phone call to the doctor’s office, make the appointment, and go. For those with failing eyesight or other medical issues, it’s not that easy. Those who utilize FIAG’s services request a ride three to five days in advance. It takes planning. Faith in Action is here to help ease the burden a bit.” With that in mind, FIAG is a great place to volunteer and meet new friends, all on a flexible schedule. “Right now, our greatest need is for drivers,” Vickie adds. “Our volunteer pool is around age 68, which means many of them have stepped back due to COVID precautions. But the need is still great and rides are very much in demand so, if you’re looking to give back and make friends, there are people waiting for you today.” “We are not just a senior transportation nonprofit,” said Vickie, “we are a community connection nonprofit. And that is just as important as all the rest.”

FaithI nAc tionGT.org

MORE THAN JUST A RIDE...

We had a client who cared for her sick husband for many years. She began riding our Go-Van-Go as a respite while hospice aides took over. After he passed, she took some time alone to mourn, and when she returned she found a support system waiting for her. Friendships were there when she returned. She told us the people with Faith in Action were there for her when she needed it most. After COVID suspended van services, she found solace again in the social connection she made with her Buddy, who kept her from being isolated during the pandemic. “People with Faith in Action care about you. They are there for you,” she told us. And that means we are doing our job well. -Vickie Orcutt, FIAG Executive Director 46

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A Gift for Georgetown Former Nurse Advocates for People Living with Dementia and Caregivers by Charlotte Kovalchuk • Photo by Carmen Davalis, Carmen’s Legacy Productions

osie Zamora may have retired from nursing, but she will always have a nurse’s heart—one she has continued to show. After her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, she became her caregiver, and has persevered in her efforts to get an adult day program off the ground for people with dementia in Georgetown. Josie says while, as a nurse, she had many roles—healer, educator, and counselor—the most critical was patient advocate, something she’s been striving to do for this new group. “Guests who join our program are not patients, but I will always advocate for them,” she says.

Josie’s many advocates have rallied to see A Gift of Time come to fruition.

That program is A Gift of Time, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has worked tirelessly to open an adult day program to provide social activities and community engagement for people diagnosed with dementia, and respite for their caregivers. Josie is the founder and executive director.

IN DEMAND The need for such a program became clear in 2011 when the City conducted a community survey, which showed our senior population needed an affordable day center. “With 30 percent of our population at 65 years old—we have a problem,” Josie says. “There is no support system in place for caregivers. Residents have been waiting almost a decade for an affordable day program and we plan to provide a much-needed service.”

Each of their supporters has remained devoted to their goal. “We will never give up the fight,” Josie adds. “We are steadfast in our mission. We know caregivers need it and it will be great for the community.” To Josie, A Gift of Time can be summed up in three words—faith, love and hope. Faith is what started it all, she says. “My passion is actually a calling. I didn’t know at the time that it was in God’s plan that I serve as an advocate for caregivers and their loved ones. . .We truly love them in a special way because we know what they go through.” Several Board members were caregivers previously, “The entire team works hard to keep A Gift of Time moving forward,” Josie says.

Although still working to acquire a building, she has already begun service to the community. AGOT offers dementia education, support groups, and Camille’s Memory Café, a social gathering for people with dementia and their families, friends, and caregivers, open to anyone interested in learning more about dementia.

She and the rest of the team want to demonstrate love by providing services to keep families together, which is a struggle for many people with a loved one suffering from memory loss. Josie finds it troubling that caregivers put loved ones with dementia in a facility before it is needed. “It’s important for caregivers and their loves to not feel alone,” she adds. “Especially while they have to socially isolate during COVID, which has caused many with dementia to decline quickly.

Many people have joined Josie’s cause, among them are the Alzheimer’s Association Capital of Texas, and many Georgetown businesses and influencers. So many, in fact, we ask you to visit GeorgetownView.com to appreciate the magnitude and number of supporters. “We are truly grateful for everyone who has stood by us, donated to our cause, and believed in what we’re doing,” Josie says.

Although the pandemic has also devastated A Gift of Time’s plans to open a day program, members have quickly switched to virtual programs, all the while hoping the day center will one day become a reality. “Our Board will never give up hope that one day we will rejoice with our supporters and community when we enroll our first participant,” Josie says. Learn more at agiftoftimegeorgetown.org.

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Lucky New Year

Americans and Trinidadians eat black-eyed peas on Jan. 1 because the beans swell when cooked. Hopefully, your new year fortune, like the beans, will grow. Spanish and South American households scarf down 12 grapes in the first 12 seconds of the new year for luck. The grapes represent each month of the year. If you want luck in Italy’s new year, wear red underwear. Romanians put currency under the rug before the clock ticks midnight to guarantee a prosperous year ahead. In Afghanistan, celebrate the new year in March. You’ll want to wear green while cooking green things, and make a seven-fruit salad. In Brazil, wear beautiful, white clothing that will bring peace of mind. At midnight, you should be in the ocean, jumping seven waves, facing out. Facing back is to not bid goodbye to the past year... and gives the ocean the chance to knock you around a bit. A lot goes on in the Philippines. Wear clothes with polka dots and jump as much as possible at midnight to get a few inches taller. To bring more prosperity, scatter coins in every room when the clock ticks midnight. Also keep the lights on and put 12 round fruits on the dinner table.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

Fairs, Festivals and Feasts Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@georgetownview.com

what makes Texas “Texas”

t takes a place as big as Texas to host the kind of year-round fun and excitement offered by the more than 100 fairs and festivals we have every year. Celebrating everything from livestock to flip flops—even mosquitoes—there is something for everyone in every season, and that’s just at the state level.

Big Tex at a 1960s-era Fair.

As a historically agrarian state, community fairs have always been part of Texas culture. Few communities across the state manage to get through a full year without a celebration of some kind to bring people together to show off the best of their yearlong efforts. In many rural communities, fairs were often the only way to get fellow farmers and breeders to take a break from working their land, meet up, and catch up on news and innovations in their respective livelihoods. Over the years, adding more food and entertainment to the mix offered motivation for even more people to visit, trade, and carry on the traditions of the area and its people.

THE BIG ONE Our best-known event, the State Fair of Texas— also lovingly known as the celebration of all things fried—has roots as far back as 1886, when it began as a private enterprise. Back then, as now, it celebrates all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment. Even in those early years, the fair included extraordinary things like hot air balloon rides, horse and car racing, Presidential visits, and stunt flying exhibitions. By 1905, more than 300,000 visitors made the trip, and attendance grew to one million before World War I shuttered it to make room for an army encampment. The Fair continued to grow in the 1920s and ‘30s, followed by another break for World War II, but undaunted by the pause, more than 2 million people showed up for the 1949 Fair. In the 1950s, they added an international livestock show, and monorail system. In a typical year, the State Fair begins the last Friday of September and runs for 24 full days. As it is the longest-running fair in the nation, Fair Park has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

It’s worth noting the State Fair was not alone in history, even in the early days. The Washington County Fair in Brenham also began 1886. Communities like Kendall County with its Annual Labor Day Kendall County Fair, Stock Show, and Rodeo have been at it for over one hundred years as well. Later arrivals include the Helotes “Cornyvale”, the Laredo International Fair & Exposition, and Lubbock’s Panhandle South Plains Fair, first held in the fall of 1914. Nancy Wiley has worked in State Fair Public Relations since 1971, and she has collected many fun facts: 1889: A Tyler man showcased his multipurpose invention, which simultaneously churned butter, rocked a baby’s cradle, and shooed flies away from the table. 1900: Former slave and prominent black educator Booker T. Washington spoke to crowds on Colored People’s Day. 1900: Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show, featuring the famed sharpshooter Annie Oakley—along with 600 horses, a herd of buffalo, and dozens of other acts—attracted 70,000 fans. 1915: Female fairgoers were dismayed to discover that all the ladies’ rooms in the fairgrounds were equipped with coin-operated toilets. 1951-1952: Fair president R. L. Thornton purchased a giant used Santa Claus from the small town of Kerens, near Corsicana, where it had been used to lure shoppers at Christmas. Thornton then

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what makes Texas “Texas” hired Dallas artist Jack Bridges to turn the white-bearded, red-suited figure into a giant cowboy; dubbed Big Tex and quickly became the ultimate icon. He was 52 feet tall, wore size 70 boots, and a 75-gallon cowboy hat. 1956: Big Tex acquired a pet, a 12’-tall model of a Hereford steer with a hollow interior holding displays like how milk is produced and how a calf is born. 1957: As the Cold War got chillier and the space race continued to heat up, the Army allowed two Nike missiles to be put on display, and the Navy okayed the release of a scale model of a surveillance satellite. 1965: Exceptionally rowdy celebrations after the Texas-O.U. game landed 371 people in jail. 1982: King Olaf V of Norway visited on Norwegian Day. 1986: Pig races became a standard feature of the fair, taking place in an area quickly christened Pork Chop Downs. 2002: Fried Twinkies were introduced. 2003: For a temporary change of pace, the Fair announced that instead of butter sculptures on display, it will offer pumpkin carving.

HOME TOWNS AND BIG CITIES The common thread that links so many events across the sate is a commitment to a professional code of conduct that delivers family entertainment value that is Texas-friendly. We even have a Texas Association of Fairs & Events to manage and promote all the petting zoos, Bar-B-Q cookoffs, agriculture exhibits, carnivals, art displays, concerts, dances, and more. While 2020 was not a good year for everything from SXSW to our own Christmas Stroll and Poppyfest, the Texas Association of Fairs & Events has created a task force and is asking Governor Greg Abbott for some guidelines that will allow everyone to open back up in 2021. There is hope. Many smaller expos and educational events are coming up, like this month’s Grapevine Potato Expo. This annual industry event showcases innovations and offers business solutions related not just to potatoes, but soil health, disease management, and technology; things that should interest most Texans. On a large scale, the 90th anniversary Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is scheduled to go on, pending any emergent COVID protocols, in May 2021. Visit FairsAndFestivals.net for upcoming events.

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A sampling of some of Texas’ unique fairs and festivals...

JANUARY

Chili Quest & Beer Fest, Galveston Eagles Fest, Emory Denton Black Film Festival, Denton Kerrville Renaissance Fair, Kerrville

FEBRUARY

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, San Antonio Stars & Stripes Air Show, Laredo Whooping Crane Festival, Port Aransas

MARCH

Texas Storytelling Festival, Denton Rattlesnake Roundup, Sweetwater ABC’s Kite Fest

APRIL

Poteet Strawberry Festival, Poteet Bluebonnet Festival, Burnet Eeyore’s Birthday, Austin Poppyfest, Georgetown GTX Film Festival, Georgetown

MAY

Yaga’s Wild Game BBQ Cook-off, Galveston Babes on the Bay Fishing Tournament, Rockport World Champion Bison Cookoff, Santa Ana

JUNE

Children’s Art & Literacy Festival, Abilene Tomato Fest, Jacksonville

JULY

Great Texas Mosquito Festival, Clute Cheeseburger Festival, Friona

AUGUST

AnimeFest, Dallas BatFest, Austin Flip Flop Festival, Port Lavaca

SEPTEMBER

Austin Ice Cream Festival Plano Balloon Festival Texas State Fair

OCTOBER

Austin City Limits Festival Formula 1 Grand Prix Tyler Rose Festival

NOVEMBER

Texas Gospel Music Festival, Fort Worth Texas Book Festival, Austin

DECEMBER

Christmas Stroll, Georgetown Festival of Lights, Austin Dickens on the Strand, Galveston

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DEEP THOUGHTS

facts to blow your mind

More people have been on the Moon than on the bottom of the deepest point in our deepest ocean.

Cassette tapes had a Side A and Side B... so it makes sense that they evolved into CDs.

There is always a lifeguard at Olympic swimming events.

Forty percent of the people reading this just put a finger in their ear.

November 2, 2000 was the last day humans all lived together on planet Earth. Since that day there has always been at least one person on the International Space Station. If you put your finger in your ear and wiggle it up and down, it sounds like a Pac-Man game. Maybe plants are really farming us; giving us oxygen until we eventually expire and turn into mulch, which they can consume. ‘Coffee flavored water’ doesn’t sound good but that’s what coffee is. Much like it’s cousin, leaf soup, or ‘tea’. If aliens come to earth, we may have to explain why we made so many movies about fighting and killing them.

People are more likely to agree with a statement written in Baskerville than any other font. Punishment for honesty is what makes some people lie. You won’t know if it you meet a genuine ninja. The black uniform comes out of fiction and folklore; real ninjas wear whatever helps them blend in.

When you say ‘Forward’ or ‘Back’, your lips move in those directions. When you call a company to cancel your service and they offer you a big discount to stay, they’re just admitting they were overcharging you. My car can surf the web, link to my phone, play multiple DVDs, and show me exactly where I am on the planet. But I still have to pay someone a fortune to tell me why the “Check Engine” light is on. If you drive north long enough, you will eventually be driving south. If you drive east, you’ll go east forever.

This year, I resolve to start writing 2021 on my checks.

Cars will soon drive themselves and traffic will be controlled through AI. AI realizes cars are more efficient when in slipstream. AI connects cars in a line to minimize drag. We’re back to traveling by train.

I resolve not to throw my alarm clock when it doesn’t work properly. Also when it does work properly.

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poppy talks

The Upsides of 2020 S

ure, everyone writes their 2020 retrospective columns for January, and, normally, I would make a snark-filled list of things I won’t miss about last year (I’m looking at you, Facebook). But, despite 2020’s attempt to make us pine for the more exciting days of roller disco or Star Wars Episodes 1-3 (because we had to leave the house to enjoy them) there are some things I’m hoping we can enjoy as the norm for just a while. Right off the bat, as an introvert, I no longer have to pretend that I’d really like to go somewhere then make up a believable reason that I can’t. I was running out of broken plumbing and looking-for-lost-homework excuses, and it’s just rude to say, “It’s ‘The Good Doctor’ night and my DVR is too full to record it.” As a bonus, I can safely scroll through my social media feeds without a sense of FOMO, because nothing happened, and no one posted about it. On that note, I’m also enjoying the relative good health of my spine because not leaving the house means not carrying a purse, backpack, or laptop bag, with their accompanying and various collections of “stuff I need for the place I’m going.” All of these include some kind of snack, many of which are just over there in the pantry. Staying home means I don’t have to decide ahead of time what I might have a craving for…just eat it when the mood strikes. I will, however, stipulate that now I’m carrying the ‘rona-15 at all times, but the only people who know it are in my house, and they’re as big as me. I am also happy that, in the Venn Diagram of my closet, the intersection of “things I prefer to wear” and “things people haven’t seen me wear in a while” is also, functionally, the union of the two. The other day I was getting dressed and my Darling asked, “Do you want me to bring you the shirt?” and we laughed and laughed… because as any perfect spouse would

do, he doesn’t mind that I’ve been wearing the same sweatshirt for four days. But he’s the only one who knows it. (Until I write it in a magazine, I guess.) Getting meals at a drive-through, and groceries shopped and brought to me; I barely even have to wear shoes any more. My family has also adapted to Zoom, which is a nice change. No longer do we negotiate who has to buy the $900 turkey dinner, because no one was obligated (allowed) to pay for expensive travel to enjoy a single meal together. We spend more time together from four states than we have since we all lived together. Cheaper, and more often. Who knew? I feel the same about every video meeting I had last year. I do miss seeing some people in person, and small group would be more fun as an actual group, but I think I would also love to do the time-equity math on the time I did not spend shutting down, driving across town, driving home, and getting back into the right thought lane to resume my work tasks. What I’m getting at is the idea that merely putting up a new calendar didn’t change anything about the 2020 lifestyle. But I am pleased to ponder great things to enjoy in the infinitely-short present, because the future is infinitely long. I stopped looking at these life changes as some kind of countdown to whatever is next because that just caused no end of worry. That, and I still love not going anywhere. Sure, there are still many, many things that stink about this time, but we have CNN for that, and the whole point of getting my Poppy on is to feel better about stuff. So I’m going to put my hair in a ponytail, put on my most comfortable jeans (which are right where I left them from yesterday), and my favorite sweatshirt, then binge-watch reruns of “The Big Bang Theory” while eating whatever Waiter With Wheels brought me, and be happy that is all anyone expects of me today.

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food

Foods for Winter Wellness CINCINNATI CHILI Sure, no one knows chili like Texans, but if you’re feeling bold enough to try Cincinnati chili, you won’t be disappointed. Plus, any good chili is great winter comfort food; it speeds up your metabolic rate and stimulates circulation—perfect for warming cold hands and feet.

INGREDIENTS

• 5 bay leaves

• 1 tsp whole allspice

• 1/2 tsp whole cloves

• 2 lb ground beef

• 2 c. chopped onion (2 large)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1/8 tsp ground cardamom

• 2×14-oz. can beef broth or 3-1/2 c. water

• 1×8-oz. can tomato sauce

• 1 tbsp vinegar

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 12 oz. dried spaghetti, cooked/drained • 1 can (15oz.) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained • Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, oyster crackers

INSTRUCTIONS For spice bag, place bay leaves, allspice and cloves in double-thick, 6-inch square of 100-percent-cotton cheesecloth. Bring up corners; tie closed with clean kitchen string. For meat sauce, in a 4- to 5-quart Dutch oven, cook beef, 2 cups onion and garlic until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain off fat. Stir in chili powder, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and cardamom. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Stir in broth, drained beans, tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce and salt. Add spice bag. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 45 minutes. Simmer, uncovered, about 15 minutes more or until sauce reaches desired consistency. Remove spice bag; discard. To serve, top hot spaghetti with meat sauce. If you like, sprinkle with cheese and additional onion, and serve with oyster crackers. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

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CREAMY WINTER CITRUS TART Citrus is not only packed with bug-chasing Vitamin C, it's also a great pick me up when you're feeling a little low.

CRUST FILLING

• 2 c. activated & dehydrated almonds • 2-1/2 c. soaked cashews

• 1/4 tsp vanilla bean powder

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 1/2 can coconut cream

• 3/4 c. coconut nectar

• 1/4 tsp vanilla bean powder

• 1-1/2 c. Fresh Lemon/Lime Juice

• 3/4 c. coconut oil (melted)

• 1 cup coconut flour

• 1 tbsp lemon zest

• 1/4 tsp turmeric

• 3/4 to 1 c. dates (stones removed)

• 1/2 c. coconut water or almond milk (can vary for consistency)

INSTRUCTIONS: CRUST

creamy, slowly add coconut oil.

Line 10-inch tart pan with baking paper. Lightly spray sides with coconut oil.

Remove about 1c. of mixture and place in freezer for topping. Add turmeric to the mixture for a slightly yellow tinge. Pour into tart pan being careful not to over fill.

Blend nuts, then add other dry ingredients. With food processor going, slowly add dates through feeder tube until crust rises rise up the sides of the bowl, it should look dry but stick together when pressed between thumb and forefinger. Press base into place, it should be sticky but pliable. Cover the base of the pan evenly making sure it sits a little away from the tart creases; i.e., don’t press too tightly or case will break when removed.

FILLING Add ingredients to a blender (not food processor), except coconut oil and turmeric. Blend till smooth and

Place in freezer for two hours minimum or overnight to set the coconut oil. Store in fridge; make sure it has been out of the freezer a few hours prior to serving.

TOPPING Remove topping from freezer and defrost for 2-3 hours. It should still be firm but can whip slightly with a spoon. Using piping bag or other icing device, create rosettes around the diameter of the tart, making your way in until it is all covered. Add optional zest to the top. Photo: RawAmbition.com

HOMEMADE HERBAL TEA Make a small amount first and adjust the ratio of ingredients to your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container. If you are using a glass jar, keep away from light.

Blend: (for 2 cups)

To brew, use about one teaspoon per cup of water, steep 5-10 minutes in boiling water.

• 1 teaspoon of honey

MINT AND LAVENDER Lavender may help with relaxation, and help freshen the breath. Together with mint it creates a delicious and potent tea with relaxing, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties.

• 1 spoon of mint • 1/4 spoon of lavender flowers Use about 1 tsp of dry leaves. Bring water to a boil and let it cool for a few minutes. Oversteeped lavender tea may become bitter. You can easily fix this by adding a spoon of honey. Once brewed, you can cool it down and serve with honey and ice as iced tea.

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512-643-9200

NOW HIRING! Contact us for more details!

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The Rev. Dr. Bill Pederson, Pastor

On-site activities suspended until further notice. Sermons & Children’s Sunday School online at

www.sgpcgeorgetown.org For additional information, call 512-868-0902 5404 Williams Drive | Georgetown

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parting shot

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

The Spirit of a Celtic Viking

ick Austin’s true passion is her “We Are Not Broken” non-profit. Last month, she officially opened the doors at Celtic Viking Studios, near the Square, not only to provide an ideal work space for artists to manifest their talent, but also to provide funding that will help sustain her mission to empower women. “Creative minds, mine included, never sleep. Providing a space that helps people increase productivity by eliminating the hassle of transporting photography equipment, lighting, and props, is so very gratifying for me.” It is also something fun for all in Georgetown—anyone can rent the Celtic Viking studio space, lighting, and board room for parties, photo shoots, or meetings. With just a phone and a friend, visitors can take endless photos in the selfie box for business or social feeds. She has even included notes and labels on the available equipment to ensure the best shots. Celtic Viking is available whenever Nick is not doing a shoot for her non-profit, and she plans to update the selfie box “look” with each change of season and holiday, and even senior portraits. Sign up at CelticVikingStudios. com for classes or arrange to share your own expert instruction in photography and other creative endeavors. “There are many artists who want to come and teach and be part of the community,” Nick says. “It is just a 64

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blessing that they are also able to make money for themselves and their clients as well.”

WE ARE NOT BROKEN DAY January 17, 2021 is the 2nd annual national We Are Not Broken Day. To celebrate, and ensure no one has to choose between church and a special event, she has scheduled a 5K and 1K “Decade” run at Celebration Church on Saturday, January 16. Registration is still open for individuals, teams, and groups at WeAreNotBroken. org/projects-events, and 100 percent of the proceeds from the event will benefit the non-profit. Nick hopes these new funds will enable her to engage a certified counselor in 2021, to nurture and provide mental health support for her clients. There are also plenty of table spaces for businesses to participate as vendors. Nick says, “I am all about promoting local and small business, so I hope plenty of people will take advantage of the opportunity.”

I WA N T W O M E N TO W E A R T H E I R 70 s, 80s, O R E V E N 40 s O U T F I T S ; O R R E G U L A R R U N N I N G C LOT H E S , T H E N WA L K O R R U N O U T T H E I R T R U T H — C E L E B R AT E T H E Y A R E N OT B R O K E N , A S T H E W O R L D M I G H T WA N T T H E M TO B E L I E V E .

georgetown view P.O. Box 2281, Georgetown, TX 78627

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