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

FEATURES 18 BiG Grace Place: Celebrating a Decade of Success

POOLS

PATIOS

LANDSCAPES

22 WE WILL NEVER FORGET 20th Anniversary of 9/11

ALL THINGS OUTDOORS From Swimming Pools and Spas to Outdoor Living Spaces and Landscaping, Omnia Outdoors provides a custom experience and product uniquely tailored to today’s swimming pool market clientele. The old-school production swimming pool builders are missing the mark. Call us today and find out why Omnia Outdoors is the fastest growing pool builder in the Austin and surrounding area and very proud to call Georgetown home.

LANDSCAPING

28 ROCKRIDE Miracle in the Dirt 54 HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Georgetown History

FAVORITES 4 FAITH & CHICKEN SOUP Crestview ChurchLunch

PATIO STRUCTURES OUTDOOR KITCHENS

6 EDUCATION STAAR Improvements at GISD 10 SIT-REP WITH TEXAS REP TERRY WILSON Property Taxes: Part 3 14 BLUE MATTERS Officer Jolly at the Blackboard

POOLS & SPAS

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LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

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24 COMMUNITY Helping Widows and Adopting Orphans 34 SHELTER STORIES Second Chances with Jail to Jobs

INSIDE

THRIVING AFTER 55

A monthly, special section with helpful information ahead of Medicare open season Oct 15-Dec 6, 2021 48 THE "DONUT HOLE" Clarifying the Medicare Part D Prescription plan 52 CRUSHED MEDICINE Important health and safety tips

GROWING MIRACLES IN THE DIRT Sport Clips owner, Gordon Logan (center), and family prepare to turn the dirt for ROCK's new arena. Photo courtesy of ROCK

38 AROUND TOWN K-9 Kerplunk is Back! 42 WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS?" Live Animal Mascots 58 FOOD Next-Level Tailgating

SHARING SECOND CHANCES Rescue dog Champ gets plenty of love from Jail to Jobs volunteers at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter. Photo courtesy of WCRAS

62 POPPY TALKS Ayn Rand Goes to the Olympics 64 PARTING SHOT Welcome, Class of 2034!

ON THE COVER

Gracie Kiltz, the inspiration for BiG, Grace Place, and untold thousands of Texans, including Citizens—dressed for "decades" of fun; CB, Ben, Sarah, Tim, and Kylie. Photos courtesy of BiG

Visit our Facebook page for follow-ups to these stories, outtakes & hints to those upcoming... GeorgetownViewMagazine

512.240.4645 2

714 S. Austin Ave., Ste. 201 Georgetown, TX 78626

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georgetownview Published by Optimus Media Group, LLC 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 With a quarter-century of writing, reporting, and marketing behind her, Ann Marie enjoys sharing her vision and voice with a Central Texas audience. She believes being involved in and writing about local communities is the best way to show her affection and appreciation of everything Texan.

SENIOR WRITER Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Karina Cuenca • Linda Thornton • Ruby Moseley GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans • 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 Georgetown View, P.O. Box 203, Jarrell, TX 76537.

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EDITOR'S NOTE | ANN MARIE KENNON This month’s issue covers quite a range of topics. The 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001 is a somber observation but we are pleased to share ways in which Georgetown will never forget. Personally, I don’t have a “remember where I was” moment for Pearl Harbor or JFK. I do remember it was snowing when President Reagan was shot. I was driving in the snow when the Challenger exploded. A soldier friend called me from the Middle East to tell me they pulled Saddam out of a hole. I remember where I was standing when my dad got his new heart. Many events stand out in my mind, but none with the clarity and emotional attachments of nearly every moment of that day in 2001, even two decades later. Speaking of events that stand out, we have some wonderful updates for Brookwood in Georgetown; their growth, and all they provide for our neighbors with special needs. Teaching their Citizens about their own inherent value and all the things they have to contribute to this world is nothing short of amazing. Also amazing are Dr. Brent and everyone in Georgetown ISD—which we can now show on paper—showed great tenacity and perseverance in a time when nearly every student and employee might be excused for being completely distracted by world events. We're so proud and pleased to shine a light on their commitment.

Thank you, Georgetown For Making Us Your Preferred Tree Care Specialists

It's time for fall clean up, have one of our Certified Arborists take a look at your trees!

We're also pleased to present Rep. Terry Wilson's call to action on property tax bills after his three-part review and explanation of our ad valorem taxes. Aside from all the September people news, don't forget to save the date, September 18, for the return of K-9 Kerplunk...Barney and Toby enjoyed the first two, and it's literally tied for my favorite day of the year behind Christmas and my son's birthday.

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faith & chicken soup

by Linda A. Thornton photo courtesy Crestview Baptist Church

“ChurchLunch” Feeds Students’ Hearts and Souls

A CHURCH MISSION

ryan and Cheryl Scott are not professional chefs, but when their college age daughter mentioned she enjoyed a church-sponsored home-cooked meal while away from home, it planted a seed. Bryan noticed a gleam in Cheryl’s eyes and knew it was a calling.

A FAMILY MISSION The Scotts have been members of Crestview Baptist Church since they moved to Georgetown 20 years ago, and say they appreciate how the city has sustained its hometown feel despite its growth. In 2014, they shared their idea to offer free lunch to the students at Southwestern University and were not surprised when leadership wholeheartedly supported their proposal. Their mission was to feed the students with no obligation or agenda in hopes of building relationships. They scrambled for volunteers, sent invitations to every university department, and opened their doors. On their first day, they prepared a home-cooked meal for 100 students and were afraid they would run out of food. That fear was premature since only seven students showed up and four of them were vegans. But they did not give up on their mission to “accept students as they are, love them unconditionally, and serve them a home-cooked meal.” Fortunately, word spread and soon the numbers rose from 14 to 25 to their most recent attendance of more than 750 students and staff.

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Lunch is now supported by the church’s mission fund, private donations and a restaurant supply delivery service, but fresh produce is still hand selected. Each week, more than 50 volunteers begin the four-day prep required and, every Monday during the Fall and Spring semesters, lunch is served in Crestview’s fellowship hall and gym from 11am to 2pm. Cheryl is adamant about her credo “We don’t do just good enough.” The 120 pounds of chicken for their now-famous chicken spaghetti casserole could be quickly boiled, but instead is grilled by Bryan and his band of volunteers. The giant salad bar with fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade dressings and the sixfoot tables laden with homemade desserts have been known to stop first-time attendees in their tracks. Vegan and gluten-free options are now always available. Nourishing more than just body, “ChurchLunch” has evolved to include banners honoring graduates and mentorship programs. Volunteers even attend college events and support teams. The church’s objective is for students to feel pointed toward and connected to Jesus through the love and attention they experience. Bryan says “We want every student we come in contact with to feel like they’re someone’s favorite.” Volunteers need not be members of Crestview and anyone interested is encouraged to call the church first to check for openings at (512) 863-6576. Donations are also welcome; checks may be sent to Crestview Baptist Church, 2300 Williams Dr, 78628; add "ChurchLunch" in the memo.

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Cheers to Ten Years!

education

TEACHER

THE POWER OF 4 TEAM IS CELEBRATING THEIR 10TH ANNIVERSARY AS A TEAM!

COMMITMENT

AND STUDENT GROWTH

The stars of GISD's pandemic year "It was about compassion and teachers not just plowing through, but also showing grace and humility. We must be human, take care of humans, and allow our littlest humans to focus on their pursuit of learning."

~Wes Vanicek

he strategic plan created

in 2014 and implemented by Dr. Fred Brent in 2015 has been paying off since then in the success of

Current ratings with Century 21 for Production & Customer Satisfaction:

Superintendent Dr. Fred Brent

We couldn’t have done this without YOUR business & referrals!

THE DATA SHOW... Wes Vanicek, GISD Chief Strategist of Assessment and Feedback said, "Students in grades 3 to 11 take 19 different topic tests. In 17 of those tests, we outperformed more than half of the state. We even saw an

the students who attend and have graduated from GISD.

increase in some of the subject tests. This is a credit to

Recently, however, the Texas Education Association (TEA)

our teachers, who were on the front lines, ready for kids

also highlighted another success; GISD's STAAR scores

to come back. It wasn't easy for them to do, but they

during the COVID year.

created conditions that were conducive to learning but

In any other school year, a decrease in scores would

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still safe enough to learn in a pandemic. They knocked it

have been cause for criticism. However, the George-

out of the park and proved our point that our curriculum

town community can be proud of the fact that, with all

and assessments are aligned across the board."

the distractions of current events and distance learning, Georgetown's STAAR scores declined by less than half of that of the state average, and even showed improvement in some grade levels and topics. Dr. Brent explains, "We outperformed most of the districts in the state. What that tells me is, during the pandemic, our teachers pressed on with the implementation of our district curriculum and assessment systems designed to promote student growth. We know we have work ahead and we will continue pursuing our goals. At the same time, we continue to put great faith in our MAP testing as a good predictor of student growth. Bottom line; our educators stayed on the path of teaching the standards, assessing progress, and modifying instruction according to needs that focus on student growth."

A NEW YEAR As students returned to school August 19, Dr. Brent says the top priority for teachers and administration was to meet students where they are. "Getting kids back into the school—some of whom haven't been here since March of 2020—was what our teachers have been

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preparing for. They are ready to navigate the challenges that may already exist, or emerge over time. Each of us in GISD is committed to helping each student pursue one year of academic growth regardless of where they start." Wes agrees, "We have shown that what we started in 2015 was not a flash in the pan, but the work does take time. These STAAR scores are strong evidence of academic growth, and MAP testing, which allowed us to recognize growth and meet needs on the fly."

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Angie Moore

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Attached is the PAC logo Illustrator file as well as a PNG. As we discussed, the ad should include the large logo, voting information (Last day to register to vote: Monday, October 4; Early voting: October 18-29, Election Day: Tuesday, November 2, register to vote at www.votetexas.gov/register), and the bond website: www.georgetownisdbond.org.

In addition, it could be good to add imagery showing that there are five separate propositions, like a check box for each Prop A-E, similar to this, if we can make it fit:

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www.GeorgetownISDBond.org This is political advertising paid for by Yes For Georgetown ISD

sit-rep with Rep. Terry Wilson

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

"According to Value" Taxes: Part 3

The Road to Relief

How can the State raise money to pay for M&O and reduce property taxes? OPTION 1: Using surplus state taxes to pay down the property tax share of School District M&O to zero.

OPTION 2: This option incorporates changes from Option 1 but includes removing select sales tax exemptions.

Representative Wilson says, "We cannot just cut property taxes and tell the schools they have to deal with less funding; the state needs to find that revenue somewhere. House Bill 122—currently before the legislature—employs the same method and mechanism as HB3 from the previous session. HB3 increased the State share of school spending, which resulted in an 8¢ to 13¢ per $100 of value reduction of property taxes across the state from what they would otherwise have been."

"We currently exempt many categories from sales taxes. Some, like essential groceries and raw materials, make complete sense, while others, like boats, do not,” Colonel Wilson says. “If we pass HB122, removing exemptions would produce additional revenue that would help reduce property taxes in less time rather than go to special programs that do not have the same broad impact."

When sales tax revenue exceeds the State spending cap—and new spending is not allowed—HB122 proposes spending 90 percent to buy down the M&O for public schools. Most property owners pay close to 50 percent of their taxes for schools so, as the state buys down that cost, property taxes will decrease. "The goal," Representative Wilson says, "is for the state to continue buying down School District M&O costs until the state’s share reaches 100 percent and local tax is zero. Following that, we will continue to use the surplus to buy down other taxes that contribute to school funding."

" T H E S TA G E I S S E T F O R D E L I V E R I N G P R O P E R T Y TA X R E L I E F, T H E O P T I O N S A R E O N T H E TA B L E . W H AT W E N E E D N O W I S I N F O R M E D F E E D B A C K F R O M E N G A G E D C I T I Z E N S S O W E C A N M O V E F O R WA R D.”

ver the past two months, Colonel Terry Wilson, US Army, Retired, State Representative for Williamson County has given us some clarity on property taxes. In July’s issue we discussed how your home values and property tax bills are determined, and in August’s issue we examined why public-school maintenance and operations (M&O) costs are such a large part of your annual property tax bill. This month, he is asking for citizens' feedback for what comes next. “For decades, the legislature balanced its books by pushing the cost of providing quality public education onto property taxpayers by way of local school districts. State lawmakers were able to raise taxes to pay for other priorities, local property owners paid the bill, and the school districts took the blame. It has taken a long time to undo that knot of political red tape, but the legislature

has set the stage for the state to pony up, pay the bill that was always the state’s to pay, and finally provide property tax relief if we have the courage to get it done.”

BACKGROUND In the 86th and 87th Legislative Sessions, House members passed bills to establish revenue and spending caps. Rep. Wilson explains, "In future, we can adjust the budget to serve more people based on population growth and inflation, but we can not spend any more, in adjusted money, than we did in previous sessions." The question at hand, then, is what should the State do with additional revenue—i.e., if sales tax brings in more money than required for costs—if they can not spend it?

YOU CAN REACH REPRESENTATIVE WILSON AT (512) 463-0309 SCAN THE CODE OR EMAIL DIRECT TO TERRY.WILSON@HOUSE.TEXAS.GOV 10

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Those other taxes include 25 percent of the tax we currently pay for gasoline, which goes toward the Foundation School Program (FSP). Once School District M&O property tax reaches zero percent, the legislature can begin buying down gasoline or other taxes. It is estimated that this buydown will take about 20 years. This option would require a Constitutional amendment to lock it in place until 100 percent of the schools' M&O is paid. Representative Wilson says, "This is what any state tax surplus should be about. We will not truly have a surplus until the local share of School District M&O costs is zero.” Colonel Wilson Is working hard to encourage other legislators to pass this option during special sessions. It is a baseline to do anything else and will guarantee our surpluses are spent on tax relief.

CO N S T I T U T I O N A L A M E N D M E N T S A R E B I N D I N G B E C AU S E T H E Y R E Q U I R E PA S S A G E B Y T H E P E O P L E , B Y V OT E . T H I S G UA R A N T E E S A F U T U R E L E G I S L AT U R E C A N N OT " U N D O " T H E C H A N G E U N L E S S T H E Y G O B A C K TO T H E P E O P L E TO A P P R O V E T H E C H A N G E W I T H A N OT H E R V OT E .

He explains, if we put Option 1 in place and begin carving away additional exemptions, we could eliminate the School District M&O costs much sooner. He adds, "We don't want to eliminate all exemptions, like those we have for food or school supplies. There are many exemptions to include but it is not a simple thing to ‘flip those switches’ until we can be certain the benefits will be equitable for a large part of the population.”

OPTION 3: Raising the state sales tax rate. During the 86th session, members worked on a bill to raise the state sales tax by 2 percent, to provide for a quicker M&O buydown. The current state sales tax is 6.25 percent and, estimates show, for every 1 percent increase, the state will gain $6 to $8 billion. Representative Wilson says, "This seems like a good plan, but many people don't have a lot of trust that there would not be a correlating tax 'swap.’ On the plus side, this option would also require a Constitutional amendment, which would bind future legislators to play by the same rules."

KEY TAKEAWAYS Rep. Wilson wants to know what you think about the options outlined, or if you have additional suggestions. Please call or email his office as soon as possible. Email is preferred to ensure your suggestions and comments are documented. "Eliminating School District M&O property taxes will not only help homeowners, it will also make Texas an even more attractive state for industry and commerce. Instead of having to give sweetheart deals to specific companies to relocate, we can offer every business, new or existing, the benefits once offered only to companies like Facebook or Amazon. Your input will be essential to making sure we are being fair when considering the impact of these options." "We hope to pass Option 1 during our special sessions, and afterward begin interim studies on options 2 and 3... and maybe 4, 5, and 6, whatever others present from great constituent feedback." S EP TEMBER 2021  GEOR GE TOWN VIE W

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blue matters

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

photo by Delta Jolly

the Police Explorer Program. Principal Brian Johnson asked if she was there about the criminal justice teaching position, which she hadn’t even heard about. But the more she thought about the job, the more it seemed like the perfect fit—especially after a sobering conversation with her daughter, Peyten.

ike moths to a flame, folks couldn’t help stopping by to say hello to Delta Jolly one afternoon at Just Love Coffee while she chatted about life after retirement from law enforcement. “It’s like a reunion in here!” she exclaimed. Some were friends she made during her days providing security for local gatherings, others from the annual events she organized, like Blue Santa and the Police Explorer Program. One was a Starbucks worker she knew from her regular coffee runs. All were connected by their love for the former police officer who lights up every room with her exuberant smile and instantly befriends anyone within earshot.

IT'S ABOUT PEOPLE That passion for people is what inspired Delta to trade her original patrol hat for a community en14

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gagement role with Georgetown PD in 2016, a passion that has kept her engaged with the community after retiring in July. “I thought I was going to miss that part of policing, that it would be a hole I would need to fill, but I think the foundation I had already laid before I left and seeing everybody around—I really thought I was going to miss the engagement side of it, but I’m finding that I’m more engaged,” she says. It’s no wonder, considering all the hats she has worn since retiring from law enforcement—Criminal Justice teacher and cheer coach at Georgetown High School, Austin Community College professor, and children’s author of the Officer Jolly series, which highlights Delta’s police adventures. She started teaching at GHS this fall, a door that opened unexpectedly when she was at the school one day picking up Criminal Justice curriculum for

photo by Tracy Mikulencak

Officer Jolly Trades Her Badge For A Blackboard

“My daughter asked me this year, ‘Every time you get in your patrol car, are you afraid you’re going to get shot?’ ” Delta asked why she would think that. “Because your police car is a target,” Peyten said. “For an 11-yearold to recognize, with all the stuff going on in the world today, yeah, we need to make some changes,” Delta says. “And then this opportunity came up. It was one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever made.” She was particularly excited that she wouldn’t have to be angry all the time anymore. “As a police officer, I had to see the bad in people,” she says. “Now as a teacher, I get to help everybody. I get to see the transformation in them almost immediately. I’m excited to see those light bulbs in the classroom.”

HER LEGACY Still, she says she will miss organizing the police department’s community initiatives, including National Night Out, Blue Santa, Chase the Chief, and the Police Explorer Program. One of her favorite memories as an officer was the warm welcome she received when she joined the force, especially from older folks who loved that she was the first black female officer in Georgetown history. “Holy smokes they were excited,” she says.

Fast forward threeand-a-half years of working patrol while immersing herself in the community and Delta was ready to embrace her next role. As the Community Engagement officer, she enjoyed building relationships with neighbors, running community events, and being the face of Georgetown PD at HOA meetings, Boy and Girl Scout events, Photo credit Tracy Mikulencak and civic group gatherings. “What I loved the most about that role is I was truly able to grow it into something worthwhile,” she says. “The connections weren't about me. It was about the group, no matter how young or old that I got to talk to or visit with. I always learned something from those connections and I believe that truly made me ready to teach.” Delta is ready to embark on a new adventure of positive influence through teaching, coaching, continuing her Officer Jolly series, and advocating for kids as a board member at Go Blue, a child abuse awareness group with the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center. As a teacher, she’s excited to see her Police Explorer Program kids all grown up at GHS. “I’ve gotten some of the biggest hugs—they haven’t seen me in forever,” she says. Ultimately, her life transition has reminded Delta who all her efforts are for. “At the end of the day, I get to spend more time with my daughter,” she says. “She gets to see me more often – the teacher side of me, the mom side of me, not the police side of me.” Scan the code to learn more about Delta and her Officer Jolly series. S EP TEMBER 2021  GEOR GE TOWN VIE W

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cover st ory

Grace Place Special Events Venue (rendering) by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com photos and images courtesy of BiG

Celebrating a

Decade of BiG

FROM BLACK & WHITE TO COLOR I N H O N O R O F T H E T H R E E Y E A R A N N I V E R S A R Y I N H E AV E N F O R G R A C I E K I LT Z , B i G W I L L B R E A K G R O U N D S O O N O N G R AC E P L AC E , A N I N D E P E N D E N T L I V I N G CO M M U N I T Y F O R S P E C I A L N E E D S A D U LT S .

hen Erin Kiltz, the Founder of BiG, envisioned Grace Place, she saw it as a home for her daughter. Today, she is thrilled that it will eventually be home to more than 100 individuals who are changing the way the world looks at the special needs population by thriving in an environment that sets them up for success.

Erin affirms BiG's purpose has always been to instill dignity and respect. "That was how I felt as a mom," she says. "I was always in awe that God would entrust Gracie to me and it was my privilege to serve her because, truly, she was teaching me the greatest life lessons. She was so joyful and present, and she taught me to be still. Today, when I spend one-on-one time with Citizens, I realize God continues to use these amazing individuals to teach specific lessons to all of us." Erin says she sees many purposes being met at Grace Place. "That has been my plan from the beginning. For a long time the only option for adults with special needs was a nursing home or institutional setting. I want this to be a place of peace for parents; that they can have full confidence knowing, when they go to glory, that their child or sibling will be able to thrive for a lifetime. We also plan to have spaces available for other individuals across the neurological spectrum; perhaps a person who develops MS and needs support and community after the death of a spouse." At the same time, Grace Place will be a place for learning and immersion; internships or practicums for nurses or neurology pre-med students. Erin says, "Grace Place will offer many residential living options and will provide total immersion for those who wish to learn."

GRACE PLACE Just eight short minutes from Georgetown and beautifully planned on 127 acres, this interdependent living community will be filled with unconditional love and support, and made up of large and tiny-homes, a chapel, and a gathering place for residents. Plus, Citizens will enjoy plenty of recreation at the outdoor movie theater, splash pad, and pet resort, as well as vocational and educational opportunities on campus. Adjacent to the chapel, a special events venue will provide revenue streams for BiG and jobs for the Citizens as they welcome the public to Grace Place for weddings, corporate retreats, and celebrations of all kinds. "These amenities will allow us to build relationships with and serve the greater community." Director of Core Services Luke Ellis agrees, "Grace Place will be divided into thirds, each with a specific function that incorporates natural features of the land and is designed to keep Citizens safe, healthy, and happy. They can meet in the common areas, walk to worship, and live interdependently with house parents or care givers in a vibrant community. Plus, the eastern third will have self-sustaining businesses and amenities, including a pet

ONE OF THE GREATEST TRUTHS IS THAT CITIZENS ARE MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD… IF TRUE, WE CAN LEARN SO MUCH ABOUT GOD FROM THEM. 18

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Instead of a typical pay-to-play golf tournament, each Citizen serves as a team captain, with the goal to raise $10,000. BiG attempts to partner each Citizen with a local business, individuals, or groups who will rally alongside them; send out awareness letters, ask others to consider supporting their captain, and share the BiG story.

resort and pick-your-own sunflowers. Our neuro-diverse community will be a success thanks to the interdependence of the individuals leveraging everyone's complementary strengths and weaknesses to fully realize everyone's God-given purpose." Erin adds, "We aren't experimenting with Grace Place; our model is already working at the café and store; we will just be doing it in a much larger space."

GRACIE'S LEGACY

GOLF BENEFIT “A Decade of BiG” is this year’s annual fundraiser, October 11. The focus for the annual benefit is to raise support and sponsorship for the cause. Every Citizen participates in the campaign, which provides funding for the community’s yearly operating expenses.

DARLA'S STORY Darla is one of the Citizens looking forward to living at Grace Place. She spent most of her adult years disconnected from society. Having felt isolated as most of her friends graduated high school and went off to college or started careers, Darla had no social outlets outside of church. Following the death of her parents, she moved to Central Texas to live with her sister, and became a Citizen of BiG in 2018.

Darla's sister, Dyana, says, "We have all witnessed amazing growth in Darla, especially in her willingness to try new things. She went from thinking she couldn't do anything to saying, 'I can do it...by myself,' while beaming with pride. Her self-confidence is incredible and something I have never seen in her until now. Darla is just so full of joy every day." At BiG, Darla quickly grew from reserved and lacking in self-confidence to an ambassador for BiG. Her favorite jobs are working in the café and gift shop. She also serves as a Citizen host for public tours.

Once committed, a sponsor has a team of four. Together, each helps a Citizen share his or her personal story (see Darla's story on opposite page) and campaign for the funds. Some businesses, such as Dell, are matching grantors, matching every dollar an employee from Dell contributes. “It’s a goal,” Erin says. “No one is expected to write a check for $10,000. We would rather you share our story ten times than write a $10,000 check, because God does the rest. People come to the café or the gift shop because they are the best in Georgetown. Then they realize this is something bigger than just a beautiful café; it is a life-giving organization that people naturally want to support.” In the ten years since BiG launched its first Golf Benefit, with the exception of the year they launched their capital campaign, the Citizens of BiG have met their goal, and 100 percent of the proceeds go to the program. Donations to the benefit will be accepted through December 31st.

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9/11 twentieth anniversary by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

We Will Never Forget

HELPFUL ELEMENTS FOR YOUR OBSERVANCE MOMENTS OF SILENCE

GEORGETOWN Members of the Georgetown Fire and Police Departments have “responded” to the GISD athletic complex at Georgetown High School to walk the stadium bleachers until they have reached the equivalent of 2,400 stairs; all 110 floors of a World Trade Center building. The 2021 Stair Climb is the 10th anniversary of our local event in remembrance of the 343 first responders’ lives lost on September 11, 2001 in New York City. At 8am, as the sun rises over the fields, firefighters and police officers are typically joined by members of Team Red, White and Blue; State Police officers and SWAT, and others from around Central Texas. Members of the community are welcome to attend this memorial event but, for safety and health reasons, participants are limited to Fire, Police, EMS and Military. They also ask that guests remember the solemnity of the occasion and maintain decorum. This is not a timed event or a race of any kind; just a simple way to honor and remember others who made the ultimate sacrifice. It is also a wonderful way to communicate the commitment and dedication to duty of all first responders and armed forces. Firefighters typically wear and carry their full complement of equipment, as their brothers did in the towers, and law enforcement wear their vests and helmets as well. Some carry flags, and some may even carry a lifelike dummy for part of the climb.

AROUND TOWN The Samaritan Center is honoring the 20th anniversary of 9/11 with a tower climb at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) Observation Tower. The event is 8am-Noon and honors first responders and veterans. Towering 251-feet into the Austin sky is the iconic Observation Tower. COTA’s colorful centerpiece features an array of 18 red, decorative steel pipes that flow from above the observation deck, down its north side. The Tower is 25 stories up and has 419 stairs. Participants will climb the stairs to the observation deck and back down.

Observe a moment of silence at any or all of the following times. Everyone is invited to toll bells in their home, business, or community at these times. 8:46am: Hijackers deliberately crashed American Flight 11 into floors 93-99 of the North Tower. 9:03am: Hijackers deliberately crashed United Flight 175 into floors 77-85 of the South Tower. 9:37am: Hijackers deliberately crashed American Flight 77 into the Pentagon, near Washington, D.C. 9:59am: The South Tower collapsed. 10:03am: After learning of other attacks, passengers on United Flight 93 launched a counterattack aboard their plane to try to seize control of the aircraft. The hijackers crashed the plane in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. 10:28am: The North Tower collapsed. The rescue effort commenced immediately.

READ NAMES OF VICTIMS ALOUD The names of the men, women, and children killed as a result of the 9/11 attacks have been read aloud at the official 9/11 anniversary commemoration in New York City every year. This list of names inscribed on the 9/11 Memorial includes all those killed in the 9/11 attacks and the six individuals killed in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. The 9/11 Memorial Guide allows users to select specific victim names or groups of names, including names of individuals from a certain place or agency.

LOWER FLAGS IN REMEMBRANCE Lower flags to half-staff. Flags may be lowered at 8:46am when Flight 11 struck the North Tower.

The tower is at 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Del Valle. 22

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community

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Lending a Hand to Widows Widows,, Giving Orphans a Forever Home

ll of us are surrounded by miracles and angels, as Patty Funes says—we just don’t always see them. Last month, she caught a glimpse of the divine in a volunteer group from River Rock Bible Church in Georgetown who were on a mission to help a struggling widow as well as orphans in need of a forever home. It began when Patty’s world was turned upside down by the deaths of her husband, father, and sister, her brother’s cancer diagnosis, and her own back injury, which left her unable to take care of her deteriorating home and 87-year-old mom. One day, neighbor and River Rock member Lucy Olson showed up on Patty’s doorstep and asked if she needed any help. It led to an outpouring of support from

During his study of the Bible, Charlie read about his own adoption into Jesus’ family and God’s heart for orphans. Finally, after hearing a report in 2017 about the overrun foster care system in Texas, he said, “Amanda, I think God is calling us to foster or adopt.”

Lucy’s church, with about 40 volunteers descending on Patty’s home to clean, do yard work, fix the plumbing, install a new front door, and give the walls a fresh coat of paint. River Rock is still hoping to find a roofer to help with needed roof repairs. Patty couldn’t believe the overwhelming display of love. “Every day I feel like miracles are here, and they are the miracles. All of them are angels,” she says in Spanish. “I never, ever imagined this would happen. I feel very blessed.” She wasn’t the only one. Thanks to the service project that also served as an adoption fundraiser, River Rock Pastor Charlie Turner and his wife Amanda are one step closer to their dream of adopting two children.

THE ROAD TO ADOPTION The Turners' road to adoption has been paved by many challenges, including fertility issues, unsuccessful treatments, and a stillborn birth. With a lifelong heart for the fatherless child, Amanda suggested they look into adoption. Charlie wasn’t open to the idea at first, having seen adoptions that didn’t go well for some families. Amanda committed the matter to prayer and asked God to change her husband’s heart if adoption was part of His plan for them. Over the next few years, Charlie kept seeing signs pointing to orphan care. He and Amanda went on mission trips to Mexico and Russia, where they had the opportunity to minister to orphans.

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Today, they hope to give two Texas infants a forever home, with one obstacle in their path—a $45,000 adoption cost. Thankfully, they found Both Hands, a nonprofit organization that helps families raise money for adoption by coaching them to coordinate service projects for widows. Both Hands’ mission is inspired by James 1:27, which encourages Christians to care for widows and orphans, with one hand of the organization reaching out to the widow and the other to the orphan. Each family and their team of volunteers raise sponsorship for their day of service, similar to raising sponsorship for a 5K race, but instead of running, the team serves a widow. When fellow church member Lucy Olson told the Turners of a widow who needed home repairs, the couple saw it as an answer to both their prayers and Patty’s. Others jumped in to help— HEB donated gift cards for supplies, Sherwin-Williams donated the paint, Freebirds provided lunch, and Amanda’s dad donated the new front door. “It’s been amazing to see the community come together and different companies supporting this,” Charlie says. “It’s been overwhelming to have so many be involved—our church family and community partners—to help bring a child home, hopefully two children, and to help this widow and her mom.” Since 2008, Both Hands projects have raised more than $13.9 million for adoptions and orphan care.

Scan the code to learn more about the Turners’ adoption journey or to make a donation.

Through 1,000+ Both Hands projects in 44 states, 1,199 widows have been served, 1,346 orphans are one step closer to forever families, and more than 25,000 volunteers have gathered to make an impact in their community. S EP TEMBER 2021  GEOR GE TOWN VIE W

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rockride

Miracles in the Dirt ROCK Celebrates Groundbreaking for New Arena

very day, ROCK Ride On Center for Kids celebrates miracles that happen in the dirt. Perhaps it is an autistic child who hugs and kisses his parents for the first time, or a veteran with PTSD who finds peace through the healing power of horses. Through its Miracles in the Dirt campaign, ROCK will provide new space for many more miracles to come to fruition. “In many ways, this expansion is really for the future. There are children who have not been born yet, adults who might need us one day, and veterans who have not yet even enlisted. This is for them,” ROCK CEO and Founder Nancy Krenek says.

GROUNDBREAKING The groundbreaking for the Sport Clips Heroes Arena in July marks another milestone in ROCK’s 23-year journey—providing equine-assisted services to children, adults, and veterans with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. In 2014, as the demand for services continued to grow, ROCK launched the Miracles in the Dirt campaign. The initiative was inspired by the late Charles Avery, a board member who challenged the nonprofit organization to buy more land and build a second arena. Miracles in the Dirt’s first phase added 40 acres to the north and south of the facility at 2050 Rockride Lane, bringing the campus’s footprint to roughly 60 acres.

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rockride

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com photos by Christina Clary

The estimated $4 million expansion is expected to be complete in late 2022 and will feature: 29,250 square foot covered arena outdoor arena makeover of the Cecile Autrey Ham Family room additional tack space, veterinarian horse stall additional land improvements renovations to the Patti Colbert Learning Center, fellowship kitchen, and existing office spaces. “The expansion will provide improved independence and life skills—in partnership with the horse— for children, youth, adults, and veterans on ROCK’s current waiting list, plus that growing future waiting list of those in need of equine-assisted services,” says George Brightwell, ROCK’s board secretary and campaign co-chairman. George remembers the windmill that inspired ROCK’s home in the ‘80s. He and his wife, Barbara, have always been drawn to windmills and they fell in love with a windmill they saw while driving on County Road 110 in Georgetown. They bought 20 acres of the 117-acre tract just for that windmill, with no plans for the land other than perhaps building a house there or selling it later for their retirement fund. They soon discovered God had a bigger plan for the land.

HEALING THROUGH HORSES HOW IT BEGAN It all started with a news story the Brightwells came across about a child’s life that was transformed by a horse named Miss Prissy Texan. Through a series of providential events, the couple met the woman behind the life-changing equine-assisted services, Nancy Krenek, who asked if they would sell her about five acres for her therapeutic horseback riding clinic.

ROCK Staff: Karah Powell, Lesley Shedeck, Devon Felts, Heidi Derning, and Kristin Witcher

The Brightwells told her they wouldn’t sell her the land, but they would lease the entire 20 acres to her for one dollar a year. After ROCK became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the land was converted into a donation from the Brightwells and later evolved into a challenge to build an arena for all the miracles in the dirt that have since taken place.

ROCK’s original 42,000 square foot covered area went into service in 2006, and today, 340 participants receive equine-assisted services. Since then, 27 staff members and more than 300 volunteers have come on board to further ROCK’s mission. To help meet the growing need for equine-assisted services, ROCK has raised 82 percent of the funding necessary for the Miracles in the Dirt campaign, and there are plenty of giving opportunities still available. To learn more, contact Karah Powell at Karah@ROCKride.org, or scan the code for more information about ROCK.

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shelter stories

WCRAS Pets of the Week

Second Chances

ome special community members are getting a second chance, thanks to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter. Their partnership with Jail to Jobs, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, gives ex-offenders the tools they need to find employment. The shelter employs 5-7 young people at a time who assist the shelter with daily tasks like cleaning kennels, doing dishes, washing, and folding laundry. Then, in the afternoons, each "staff" member is paired with a shelter dog to train. Participants gain skills, knowledge, and a sense of responsibility, while the dogs learn new behaviors and enjoy enrichment—giving both a new “leash on life.” Plus, while members of the program are developing their professional assets, they also make up a valuable workforce for the shelter.

SHELTER BENEFITS On average, providing shelter dogs and cats the basic level of care they need—each and every

day—requires approximately 90 staff hours. Thanks to the hours the Jail to Jobs staff spend at the shelter, full- and part-time staff and regular volunteers are afforded extra time to assess dogs and cats, learn about their personalities, and figure out which home might be best for them. If staff find a behavior that needs addressing, they have more time to work with those animals because there is more time available during the day. Bottom line, Jail to Jobs means improvements in the quality of life, and potential future lives, for the animals.

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REX

5 YEARS OLD, MALE, 70 POUNDS Rex is a member of the lonely-hearts club, but he's ready to join you on an all-new adventure. This handsome guy has plenty of charming sweetness to make any dog lover's heart go pitter-patter. Rex is eager to please and aching for someone to show him the ways of life in a loving home. He's lived with another dog before, though meet and greets are always recommended with resident pets. He knows sit, walks nicely on a leash, leans in for more pets, and takes treats gently from a kind hand. Want to meet this sweet boy? Schedule a priority-service appointment today!

MONICA

2 YEARS OLD FEMALE 8 POUNDS

Isn't Monica a lovely little lady? She arrived at the shelter in March with kittens on the way. She has successfully raised them and is now in search of a new home to call her own. Monica can bit a bit shy with new surroundings and people, but she warms up quickly and really enjoys a gentle scratch behind her ears. This young girl will gratefully trade purrs and biscuits for a loving new home. Would you like to meet her? Send an email to adoption@wilco. org to schedule a priority-service appointment.

CHAMP'S STORY Management is pleased to have seen this program benefit the staff, volunteers, dogs and cats, and—of course—the youth who work there through Jail to Jobs. It gives them a "New Leash On Life," and that's where Champ's matching donation comes in.

Officer John Schultz with Champ and Jail to Jobs Volunteers at the WilCo Shelter

shelter stories

contributed by April Peiffer photos by Kim Fachet De Araujo

August 10 marked three years since Champ was in the shelter's care after suffering a traumatic and life-altering injury. To celebrate his New Leash On Life, Champ and his person, Officer John Schultz, and Chisholm Trail Properties are matching donations to the fund used for the Jail To Jobs program, up to $5,000! As of this writing, they have raised $4,260 to match. Donations can be made at champsnewleash. givesmart.com.

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Georgetown Shelter • Clear the Shelters Event The City of Georgetown Animal Shelter is teaming up with KXAN for the sixth annual Clear the Shelters pet adoption drive Aug. 23 through Sept. 19. This year, the campaign will combine a month-long virtual adoption campaign, with a single-day adoption celebration on September. 18.

During the entire event, the shelter, 110 W.L. Walden Drive, will reduce and even waive adoption fees. Dogs age 7 months or older may be adopted for $15 (medium to large size breeds only), while cats age 7 months or older may be adopted free of charge. “This campaign couldn’t come at a better time,” Animal Services Manager April Haughey said. “Our small shelter has been overflowing with dogs and cats for the last month. We hope this campaign will reach potential adopters and truly clear the shelter.” To see the list of available pets and learn how to adopt, visit pets.georgetown.org. The shelter is operating primarily by appointment, with adoption applications required in advance. This process ensures staff assistance and one-to-one interactions with animals.

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eorgetown Parks and Recreation is bringing back the best pawty of the year after a 2020 pandemic hiatus. The Rec Center outdoor play pool closed for the season August 18, but, on September 18, dog owners are invited to bring up to two furry friends to the Community Center for one last day of splash pool fun 10am-Noon. The city is able to host up to 100 dogs and their humans to the party because even in late September, Texas water is warm enough for humans who wish to wade in with their fur-babies… up to your knees at most is recommended for everyone’s safety. “We have several active dog parks in Georgetown, so we know we have a lot of dog lovers who enjoy getting together in a safe and happy 38

environment,” Parks & Rec Director Kimberly Garrett says. “Many communities do this after the municipal (human) swim season is over to give dogs a chance for some social time with a splash. We chose the rec center pool because it has a sloped entrance that enables the dogs to walk in and out.” It is pure joy to see how happy they are in the swim park; on the slides, yapping at waterfalls, and enjoying social time while staying cool. Garrett also assures that there is no need for concern about the animals’ use of the facility. All Georgetown swim facilities begin a scheduled deep clean and servicing after pools close for the season. The City also invites local organizations and businesses to contribute

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sports mascots

LIVE ANIMAL MASCOTS

Panhandle; originally named "Bo" and shipped to Austin. Bevo the First didn't stay too long. He was taken out of town that year and didn't return to campus until 1920.

WHAT MAKES

BEVO II THROUGH XV

TEXAS

Bevo has officially been the live mascot of the athletic programs since 1932. He is always a Texas Longhorn steer with burnt orange and white coloring. The current Bevo (XV) was introduced in 2016. He has a horn span of 58", he weighs 1,800lbs and is owned by Betty and John Baker's Sunrise Ranch in Liberty Hill; which was also the home of Bevo XIII and Bevo XIV (photo above).

“TEXAS”?

Sports Illustrated says Bevo is one of the most recognized college mascots, and has even been called "the toughest-looking animal mascot in sports." Fox Sports ranked him #1 in the top 25 live animal sports mascots.

T E X A S B O A S T S T H R E E O F F OX S P O R T S ' TO P 25 L I V E A N I M A L M A S COT S

DID YOU KNOW...? Before there was a Bevo, there was a feisty tan and white Pit Bull mix named Pig. From 1914 to 1923 Pig could be seen authoritatively walking around the UT-Austin campus daily. As the varsity mascot, he went to classes with students, attended athletic events and participated in morning "fall outs" with military cadets during World War I. It is rumored Pig would even growl whenever anyone mentioned the Aggies. Students at UT were very attached to Pig, despite the introduction of the first Bevo in 1916. Introducing a live longhorn as a mascot is attributed to alumnus Stephen Pinckney, who gathered $124 from other alumni to purchase a steer in the 42

LADY AND JOY When your team name is the Bears, having a live mascot can be tricky. In true Texas fashion, Baylor University has had a bear habitat since 1917 and they have not one, but two live bears; ranked #10 in the Fox mascot poll. The first bear mascot was acquired after a military group left it in the care of the university during World War I. Mascots are all named Judge (after Baylor namesake Judge R.E.B. Baylor) and each is also given an individual name in honor of a figure in the university's history.

leashes until they got too big. They now weigh 270 to 280 pounds and have their own habitat on the university’s campus.

REVILLE Texas A&M has none but the First Lady of Aggieland on the sidelines. She is #11 on the Fox poll but is highest-ranking member of the Corps of Cadets who address her as 'Miss Rev, ma'am'. The first Reveille made her appearance in 1931. She is buried, along with all other Reveilles, at the north entrance facing the scoreboard so she can always watch the Aggies win. The first Reveille was a mutt and there are many legends about how she was discovered and came to live on campus. According to Reveille: First Lady of Texas A&M, Reveille made her official debut during a football game in 1932, and “it was the moment that officially earned her the designation as the school's mascot.” She always travels first class, or in private planes (below with cattleman Jim Schwertner), and among the many Reveille traditions is the rule that if she finds her way into a student’s bed, the cadet has to sleep elsewhere, even the floor.

The current bears (top right), Judge Joy Reynolds (Joy) and Judge Sue Sloan (Lady), are biological sisters. Joy arrived on campus as a cub in 2001; Lady arrived as a cub one year later and was named after the wife of the 12th President of Baylor. Both current ladies attended games on

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INFORMATION

Understanding the Medicare "Donut Hole"

Important Safety Tips When Taking Medication

Page 48

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Medicare "Donut Hole": Digesting the Facts by Linda A. Thornton

LUNCH

t may be hard to swallow but, like it or not, if you are a Medicare recipient and take prescription medication, you’ll likely be in a “Donut Hole” before your coverage becomes catastrophic.

Annual Deductible: Some insurance plans require an annual deductible of the cost of your prescription drugs before the plan’s initial coverage begins. In 2021, the maximum is $445.

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SUN CITY VENDOR FAIR cost while in the Coverage Gap). Seventy percent of the retail cost of your medication in the Coverage Gap is also counted towards TROOP. There are ways you can try to lower your prescription drug costs in order to avoid the “Donut Hole:”

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Ask your doctor if a generic alternative may be substituted. Inquire if your drug plan offers discounts on a 90-day supply by mail, rather than the usual 30-day amount. Contact the drug company directly—through your doctor’s office or online—to see if they offer discounts through their pharmaceutical assistance program.

Initial Coverage: Co-payments and co-insurance kick in; you pay your share of prescription costs and your plan pays the rest. When the retail cost of your prescription drugs reaches the 2021 limit of $4,130, you proceed to the next level. Keep in mind, this does not mean you have paid $4,130 out of your pocket; this amount is the drug's "retail cost" (which may vary between pharmacies), while you pay only a percentage or co-pay.

Visit medicare.gov and see if you qualify for a low-income state assistance program.

Coverage Gap or “Donut Hole”: Your drug plan’s copays and co-insurance now go away and you pay 25 percent of the retail cost of all your medications. This is true on all individual Part D prescription drug plans.

All Medicare insurance plans are required to send out an Annual Notice of Coverage. The notification of any changes in plan coverage or costs must be postmarked by Sept. 30. Policy changes can only be made during the Oct. 15–Dec. 7 Annual Election Period and go into effect the following January. “Reviewing your drug coverage every October is crucial,” advises Gentry, “This is one of the services we provide to our clients.”

Catastrophic Coverage: You must now reach your True Out-of-Pocket Cost or TROOP ($6,550 for 2021), which is calculated by what you have paid out of your pocket (deductible, copays, and the 25 percent retail

and

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That may seem intimidating but Cameron Kirchoff and Gentry Ferguson of the Texas Medicare Shop in Georgetown*, with 30 years of Medicare insurance experience between them, can help clarify.

To understand Medicare’s Part D Prescription Drug plan, Cameron and Gentry agree it’s important to be aware of its coverage levels, which run through the calendar year.

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In short, the Donut Hole is the coverage gap that occurs after your prescription plan deductibles are met and before catastrophic coverage kicks in. When in the gap, Medicare places a temporary limit on what your drug plan will pay for drugs.

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Of course, you can always shop around for a new prescription plan. Typically, Medicare consultants provide services to their clients free of charge and are compensated by the insurance companies. Texas Medicare Shop is on a mission to educate the Georgetown community and find just the right insurance for their clients from the 35 plans currently offered in Texas.

* s e e a d o n p. 51 48

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Prescriptions: To Crush or Not to Crush by Ruby Holder Moseley

o you have trouble swallowing what some people call “horse pills”? You know, the ones that look like they should have a Popsicle stick to hold onto? Although that’s an exaggeration, the fact is, that some pills are down-right intimidating to swallow! But before you cut or crush this huge thing sitting in your hand, be aware of the risks involved.

ABUNDANCE OF CAUTION The Institute for Safe Medication Practices has compiled a list of name-brand and generic medications. Scan the code to see if yours is one that must be taken in its original form.

DYSPHAGIA Dysphagia is the difficulty or inability to swallow. This is a common condition in geriatric patients. But sometimes the reason a person has trouble swallowing a large pill can be psychological, due to a fear of choking or having a near-choking experience earlier in life. It’s important to ask your doctor to examine and rule out any other more serious conditions related to difficulty swallowing. It’s always the best strategy to take your medication as prescribed, in its original form. And always finish the course of the prescription by taking all the doses, even if you are feeling improved.

WHEN IT’S NOT SAFE CD, CR, DA, ER, XR, XL By cutting or crushing some medications, more of the dosage may be absorbed into the bloodstream quickly. This can cause a temporary overdose and leave no medicine for the body the rest of the day. Annette Enababor, Director of Pharmacy at St. David's Georgetown Hospital explains, “Many drugs are made with different release technology. Crushing and cutting some medications may result in higher blood concentrations or poor absorption, making them potentially harmful or ineffective.” So, a good rule-of-thumb is to check the ending of your medication’s name. CD, CR, or DA initials mean that these medications have a controlled-release, a timed-release or a delayed-action. If it ends in ER, XR, and XL, it means that they deliver the medication slowly over a 24-hour period. It’s also not at all wise to crush another person’s pills, as in the situation of a nursing home staff person administering medication to a nursing home patient. Some cancer-related medications are toxic when they are inhaled.

WHEN IT’S SAFE But, having that explained all the reasons to be cautious and when not to alter medications, there are many instances when crushing, cutting or halving a medication is perfectly safe. First, use a pill-splitter or a mortar & pestle for these jobs. Crushing pills by banging on them in a sandwich bag will not make consistently-sized pieces and waste costly prescriptions. Annette adds, "It is best to follow the labeling on the prescription bottle and reach out to your pharmacist with questions." If you still have doubts, are unsure, or feel you just cannot take the dosage as given in the prescription, ask your doctor or pharmacist about your medication.

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hispani c heritage month

hispanic heritage month

by Karina Cuenca photos courtesy Williamson Museum

Nuestra Comunidad Hispanics in our city represent a vibrant community that includes leaders, artists, and businesses, all of which contribute to the city’s diverse cultural landscape. Throughout this month, members of the community are highlighting this landscape through hosted events to be enjoyed by the entire family.

THE WILLIAMSON MUSEUM SEPT 15-OCT 15 Georgetown’s churches included St. Helen's Catholic

n 1968, President Lyndon Johnson signed National Hispanic Heritage Week into law. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded that observance into the month-long celebration we know today. Collectively, Americans celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The festival celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of those whose ancestors were born in Latin America, Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

Church, Gethzemani United Methodist church and Iglesia Getsemani CLADIC Pentecostal, the first Pen-

FIRST HOMESTEADERS In 1747, Spanish priests settled the area and founded the short-lived San Xavier missions. Few settlers arrived for the next century but, in the early

tecostal church in Georgetown. These congregations still exist, but the buildings have grown or relocated to support growth. Before 1940, when schools in Georgetown integrated

1900s, Hispanic farmers and ranchers began to

to allow Hispanic students to attend, the Escuela Mex-

settle in and around Georgetown. These migrants

icana (Mexican school) educated the children of His-

traveled primarily from Mexico following the Mexi-

panic families (photo). When policy changes allowed

can Revolution and settled in rural areas of George-

them to attend Annie Purl Elementary, the Mexican

town; working as farmers, ranch hands, construction

school closed.

workers, and laborers. Among the notable names in the Georgetown

In 1970, the ISD worked with community leaders to develop programs for children of low income and

community between 1900-1930 were the Zamora

migrant workers that mirrored preschool and kinder

and Vanegas families. The Clarito Zamora Ranch,

programs.

established in 1911, was among the most successful farms established by members of the Hispanic community. Valerio Vanegas, who settled in the area around 1917, was a skilled laborer, and brought with him gold mining, construction, carpentry, agricultural, and butchering experience. Families like these predominantly settled in the San Jose neighborhood of Central Georgetown, then known as the “San Jose Barrio,” where the majority of Georgetown’s Hispanic residents live today.

THE COMMUNITY An important part of establishing their community

In 1979, Los Unidos Club, Georgetown's

Nuestra Comunidad: Williamson County's Hispanic Roots exhibit. Nuestra is a community-based exhibit that includes photos and recorded oral histories of longtime hispanic families in Williamson County. September 25, October 2 and 9, 10am-5pm Hispanic Heritage themed come-and-go crafts

GEORGETOWN PUBLIC LIBRARY Friday September 24 beginning at 7pm Outdoor screening of the Disney movie "Coco" and crafts beginning at 7pm. The movie will begin at dusk. Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks. September 25 • 2pm Performance by Mexico 2000 Ballet Folkorico. Tickets for the performance will be handed out on a first come first serve basis beginning at 1pm. Masks are encouraged. Next month, we will feature some of the Hispanic pioneers of Georgetown, and a few of our greatest leaders.

first Hispanic social service club, formed to preserve culture, facilitate service projects, and be a link between Hispanics and their neighbors in the community. They awarded their first scholarships in 1980. Today, at 22 percent, Hispanics are the second largest, and fastest-growing ethnic group in Georgetown. Most members of the community are concentrated in the San Jose and Grasshopper neighborhoods. The local elementary, high school districts, and universities also reflect the growing Hispanic popula-

included building the first Hispanic churches and

tion in their graduating classes and university

schools.

enrollment.

Social events are often centered on the Diez y Seis, or Fiestas Patrias, celebrations honoring Mexican Independence Day. 54

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food

Yes, you can grill these, too!

NEXT-LEVEL TAILGATING ARE YOU READY FOR SOME GRILLING? Tailgate food is a very specific culinary

TAILGATE CHICKEN SKEWERS • 1 cup brown ale

• 2 Tbsp kosher salt

• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 2 cloves garlic, minced • ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce

The best dishes are low

• 3 Tbsp tomato paste

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

maintenance, portable,

• 2 Tbsp Sriracha hot pepper sauce

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

and, above all, delicious!

dedicated to the art of pregame noshing, grills are a must, stuff on sticks is a good choice, and anything

In medium bowl stir together the brown ale, salt, granulated sugar, and onion powder. Add chicken thighs. Refrigerate and brine for 2-4 hours. While chicken is brining, place 6 wooden skewers in water, allow to soak for 30 minutes to one hour.

more flavorful texture, is

Prepare the glaze. Heat olive oil over medium high heat, add the garlic (tip: use a microplane to quickly reduce garlic to a paste in seconds, rather than mincing with a knife), stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a strong simmer until thickened, about 8 minutes.

likely going to be a Win.

Preheat grill to medium high. Remove chicken from brine, rinse well and pat dry.

you can make with beer, which gives meat a tender,

GRILLED HEARTS OF ROMAINE DRESSING

• 1 c mayonnaise

For those of you

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, thread onto prepared skewers. Brush the chicken on all sides with glaze, place on the grill, close lid. After two minutes, turn and brush with additional glaze. Repeat until chicken is cooked through, about 6 minutes. COOK'S NOTE: Chicken thighs are more flavorful than chicken breast, and also stand up better to high temperatures without drying out, making them the perfect choice for grilling.

• 12 milk chocolate segments

• 1 graham cracker, split into four • 1/2 cup marshmallow cream

For the glaze: • 2/3 cup stout beer

The Gunny Sack

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pie crust dough

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs • 1 Tbsp olive oil

experience.

S'MORES HAND PIES

by Jackie Dodd

• 1/2 c sour cream

• 1/4 c whole milk; more as needed • 6 oz. crumbled blue cheese • 1-1/2 T finely grated shallot • 1 clove finely grated garlic • 1 T fresh lemon juice • 1/2 t kosher salt • 1/8 t freshly ground black pepper

SALAD

• 2 hearts romaine, bases trimmed but intact, halved lengthwise • Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing • Kosher salt, black pepper • 4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled

• 40 mini marshmallows

• 1 egg white, beaten

Roll out pie crust dough, cut into four large circles (about 6" each) using a bowl as a pattern (reroll scraps to use all the dough).

Brush the whole hand pie (top and bottom) with a beaten egg white.

Place small graham cracker segment in the center of the dough circle. Add two squares of chocolate and a dab of marshmallow cream. Place about ten mini marshmallows into the marshmallow cream. Wet the edges of the dough. Fold dough over the s’mores toppings, pressing it in place. Fold up the edges, pressing them in place. Crimp edges with fingers or fork.

Lightly grease the grill grates and start by grilling the top of s’mores hand pies about two minutes over medium heat. Flip the hand pies over and cook the bottoms for two minutes. Move the hand pies to the upper rack to cook for an additional minute in the indirect heat. After removing them from the grill, put a dab of marshmallow cream on top of each hand pie. Place a segment of chocolate in the middle of the marshmallow cream to hold it in place.

Stir dressing ingredients in medium bowl. Cover, refrigerate at least 3 hours to let flavors develop. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Dressing will thicken and may be thinned with more milk. Heat gas grill or prepare charcoal fire to medium-low. (Be sure grate is hot.) Lightly brush olive oil over romaine, taking care not to break leaves. Sprinkle with salt & pepper. Put lettuce cut side down on the grate, directly over heat. Grill until outer leaves are charred and wilted, lettuce is warm and just barely tender to the core, 2-5 mins, depending on heat of your grill. Transfer lettuce to a clean platter and let rest 5 minutes. Place half a heart of romaine, cut side up, on each plate, top with dressing, sprinkle with crumbled bacon. Serve immediately.

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poppy talks

Ayn Rand Goes to the Olympics G

od Bless Simone Biles. Whether you agree or disagree with her decision to withdraw from some of her events, Poppy is still annoyed that the IOC took away her difficulty points and caused the kerfuffle in the first place. I'm sad that the "everyone gets a trophy" culture actually reached the point that the best athletes in the world can be handicapped simply because... wait for it... they are THE. BEST. ATHLETES. IN. THE. WORLD. Honestly, Ms. Biles doesn't need another three or four golds to convince anyone she is the best there ever was. Plus, because Poppy is nothing if not snarky, if I were in Simone's shoes, I'd also have said, "Fine, I hope all the people who medal are okay with the invisible-but-implied footnote that says, 'Because Simone dropped out.'" Philosopher and author Ayn Rand's said productive achievement is man's noblest activity. Based on that premise, I think telling people—who have literally worked their entire lifetimes to achieve a goal—that their best is too good is to say that humanity would have been better off without self-interested individuals like Muhammad Ali, Mia Hamm, Joe Montana, Tiger Woods, and Babe Didrickson; to say nothing of so many others like Denzel Washington, Wernher von Braun, or J.K. Rowling. Would you have paid $99 to pay-per-view to watch Mike Tyson fight with one hand tied behind his back? Or maybe they should have given Ali a few benadryls right before his fights so he would just float like a butterfly and not sting anyone. Tiger, you're fun to watch but you have to start at the special tee box 75 yards behind everyone else. I know it's not fair, but no one else won a tournament this year and their feelings are hurt. 62

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Jackie Joyner, we're going to give you these flipflops for the heptathlon this year. We'll be at the finish line with a bucket of ice for the ACL you're going to tear in the process. Depending on how well you recover, we will consider giving you shoes next time. Mr. Brando, we like the choice you made to play with the cat in that scene but we think Don Corleone should maybe tell a knock-knock joke at the end so the other actors don't look like such amateurs. Mr. Musk, SpaceX is a great idea but we're going to put together a panel of 9th graders who are really good at video games. They will also co-own your company to make sure you don't make too much more money than anyone else by winning sole-source government contracts. We know you're the only company that can actually get the job done, and I know we want to make it to Mars, but not until everyone can take equal credit for it. History?... well, President Roosevelt was literally handicapped but he still managed to nearly get us to the finish line of World War II before he died. Then again, the government took his trophy posthumously and decided no one, no matter how good, would be allowed to be President that long ever again. Sure, you can try to change my mind but it's a shame we've been telling our kids to try hard, achieve, and be sure to believe in themselves for such a long time, only to make them feel bad about succeeding too much. If it's more fair and compassionate to insist that we all achieve equally, how can the standards ever be raised for any of us to achieve greatness? Seriously... what if someone had told Robin Williams he wasn't allowed to be funnier than Pauly Shore?

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parting shots

Welcome, Class of 2034 and more!

Georgetown ISD returned to school August 19. With all classes taking place in person, the parking lots and drop-off lines were overflowing with eager students and proud parents. At Mitchell Elementary, Georgetown PD Officers Pablo Felix and Jordan Granberry monitored traffic, which flowed smoothly, especially for the first day of school. Above, "Super Jax" Jackson and Jackson are starting the fourth grade, escorted by Dad Ozzie. At top, Luna was most proud to show off her new-for-kindergarten shoes and share the moment with her dad, Scott. At right, Trace is also starting kindergarten with a quick hug and kiss from mom Joanna and brother Trent. Not pictured* but so worthy of mention were all the football players from East View High School who were on hand at Mitchell and at Wagner Middle schools to help with the drop-off line and greet everyone upon arrival. *The publishers respect student privacy and may not publish student photos without parent releases.

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