Georgetown View • May 2022

M AY 2 0 2 2

Joyful Living DR. LORI PALAZZO HELPING PATIENTS HEAL THEMSELVES

May Special Focus Women in Business • Wine Country A Multi-Feature Look at Local, Professional Women and the Texas Wine Country

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INSIDE FEATURES

FEATURES

JOYFUL LIVING Dr. Lori Palazzo

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LENDING A HELPING HAND The Georgetown Beard Club

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LEADERSHIP IN PRAYER 30 Mark Whitacre Keynote at County Leadership Breakfast

MAY SPECIAL: WOMEN IN BUSINESS WINE COUNTRY A multi-feature look at Local, Professional Women and the Texas Wine Country

FAVORITES KIDS 14 Georgetown Soccer Association

FAVORITES

EDUCATION 2022 Graduation

16

SHELTER STORIES Summer Volunteering

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EXPERIENCE GEORGETOWN 22 Troubador Festival AROUND TOWN J. Warner Wallace Speaks

FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND 62 Women and Mothers

HILL COUNTRY WINE TOURS A "Grape" Road Trip

36

POPPY TALKS Weird Mother's Day Thoughts

SAVE THE PLANET Sustainable Wine

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WINE 101 Wine Blends

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?

Texas Favors Vineyards

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FOOD | COOKING WITH WINE Ideas to Finish the Bottle

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THRIVING AFTER 55

PARTING SHOT 64 Wesleyan Chapel's New Cross

THRIVING AFTER 55 PERFORMING Cellist Hai Zheng

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STORYTELLING Meet Our Sun City Writer, Linda A. Thornton

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Next Month...

EDUCATION, TRADES & LEARNING

ON THE COVER Dr. Lori Palazzo and Joyful Living in Georgetown.

Photo by Christianna Bettis Photography

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

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EDITOR'S NOTE | ANN MARIE KENNON 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.

EXECUTIVE 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 / COPY EDITOR Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton • Cassidie Cox EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR Camy Reynolds GRAPHICS & DESIGN Sandra Evans • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • Christianna Bettis SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jenny Campbell IT / WEBMASTER Jesse Payne

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

Georgetown View is an Optimus Media Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper Copyright © 2022 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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MAY 2022

It's great to be writing this letter, having glanced back at previous May messages that seem like they can't possibly be just one or two years ago. Happily, spring 2022 came without lockdowns or recovery from ice storms and we are all happy to be writing about soccer, good business, and drinking wine instead. And, naturally, taking photos of bluebonnets.

This month we are taking a look at all the ways we can enjoy the efforts and success of women in business. First, we are pleased to introduce Dr. Lori Palazzo, who had the courage to take the post of county medical director during a pandemic, and our Thriving After 55 section are two women who made great careers for themselves in unconventional ways and tell a great story in the process.

We also explore Texas' solid and growing reputation for great wine. You'll find new ways to dig deep, find, drink, and enjoy it.

Of course there's also mothers, graduation, and Memorial Day. Plus, as a writer, it was a privilege to speak to the 'Evidence Whisperer' who will be speaking in Georgetown May 13. He is a hope spring for those who want to know more about apologetics, and a don't-miss opportunity for the community.

Speaking of graduation, let's be sure to send some love to our GISD seniors at the parade May 22. It started out as a response to the lockdown but has already become a glorious tradition for Georgetown and I appreciate Superintendent Dr. Fred Brent's willingness to continue it for the sake of everyone in the community.

Here's to your continued good health, Georgetown!

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COV ER FE AT UR E

Joyful Living

by Linda A. Thornton

More than Just a Company Name

A

sk Dr. Lori Palazzo about her new practice and she will become exuberant. As her eyes brighten and with a beaming smile, she can’t help but convey how the twists and turns of her life have landed her right where she belongs.

Meet Dr. Palazzo Born and raised in New Orleans, she and her family came to Georgetown in 2007 after a friend suggested they consider moving here after Katrina. It took them exactly one day to fall in love with our friendly community and the wide-open spaces that unexpectedly surround us but with the amenities of a big city.

As a primary care physician with additional specialized training, Dr. Palazzo soon opened a private practice to combine the best of both worlds. Her background in bioidentical hormones allowed her to help menopausal women with all-natural hormone therapy. Plus, as a certified plant-based nutritionist, she understood the importance of diet and nutrition for the prevention and management of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other illnesses.

Most importantly, specific training in functional medicine provided her with added insight into each of her patients.

Dr. Lori Palazzo photo by Susan Locke Photography)

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MAY 2022

Functional Medicine

A New Beginning

Functional medicine is a process by which the physician assesses each patient’s lifestyle and habits to arrive at a personal diagnosis and treatment plan. Focusing on body, mind, spirit and community, the patient enters into a partnership of healing using natural and minimally invasive methods that strengthen and nourish the body.

Prior to opening Joyful Living, Dr. Palazzo worked 18-hour days filled with fatigue, stress, and frustration fueled by the restrictions of the current healthcare model and its attendant insurance companies. When the end of her office lease finally gave her the impetus to close her practice, she began teaching in the medical school at Texas A&M University’s Round Rock campus. She later accepted the position of local health authority and medical director for Williamson County and Cities Health District—during COVID! That unique challenge provided valuable experiences, but only fueled her desire to return to her calling.

In contrast, traditional medical schools use synthetic medicine and invasive procedures or surgery to treat ailments. With a focus on the outer symptoms only, western medicine fails to consider deep root causes and lasting consequences of disease.

In February 2022, she opened the doors to Joyful Living in a little white cottage at the front of a picturesque park in Georgetown. Dr. Palazzo’s office conveys her personality with its modern, white décor and the striking floral painting that adds a touch of sophistication.

Originally believing herself a one-person show, her family has rallied around her and is fully engaged in her business. Husband, Paul, is still wondering if the recent meal she tested on him was really crumbled tofu with Mexican spices or, was it chicken? Likewise, daughter, Rachel, is testing recipes on

COV ER FE AT UR E

EACH PATIENT CARRIES HIS OWN DOCTOR INSIDE HIM.

her own meat-eating husband, and daughter Alexis has taken over the reins as the marketing manager.

photo by Christianna Bettis

~Dr. Albert Schweitzer

Set Apart Dr. Palazzo's exceptional successes with patients is not hampered by the fact that she does not accept insurance. Proof positive is the young woman with chronic strep throats who no longer has to worry about having her tonsils removed. The diabetic woman with excessive sugar cravings who is no longer on medication and has lost 20 pounds. An 84-year old man who is off his medications, has lost 30 pounds and is no longer in heart failure.

What to Expect During the initial consultation, Dr. Palazzo and her prospective patients spend up to two hours together getting to know each other. The patients' enthusiasm, patience, and commitment are important to the success of their individual program. Dr. Palazzo will choose from three, six, or nine month options depending on the patient’s specific health needs and circumstances, all incorporating her S.T.E.M. approach: Sleep, Think, Eat, and Move. She plans to add a membership that includes a monthly check-in and blood work very soon as well.

When she closes her eyes, Dr. Palazzo dreams of a large building in Georgetown with an office, chef, massage therapist, nutritionist, therapist, and even yoga and tai chi classes—all under one roof.

Until then, she is content to practice medicine the way she has always wanted to. “Our bodies were created to heal themselves,” she says. “I believe being a healer is my God given gift and I hope to be the answer to peoples’ prayers for healthy and joyful living.”

302 E. Valley Street in Georgetown For a consultation, contact Dr. Palazzo at 737-275-6777 or DrPJoyfulLiving@gmail.com.

MAY 2 0 2 2

9

TBF 2022: BRINGING IT BACH AGAIN

May 15, June 20-26, 2022 Georgetown Public Library Grace Episcopal Church, Georgetown St. Martin’s Ev Lutheran Church, Austin Wellspring UMC, Georgetown

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Summer is A Time of Transition Getting There is Just the First Step

M

ay is a wonderful time of year for weather and the anticipation of summer plans. For many, it is also the start of moving season, particularly those in the military and families with school age children.

It's the time to get to know Rosemary Calcese and Transformation Title & Escrow.

Fortunately for her clients, all of these summer transitions are second nature for Rosemary. "As a Veteran who moved many times, I understand the challenges and timing of summer closings. My experiences give me great insight to what my clients are managing on the selling side, and also what their potential needs might be at their new location."

More than Titles and Escrow Beyond the closing table, Rosemary helps clients manage priorities that might have seemed flexible until they signed all the papers and started unpacking boxes. As a title officer and an attorney, she talks the talk of moving to a new home and knows all the right questions to ask.

"I do all I can to make connections for people, make sure their contacts in Georgetown can help them in their new city or state, and personal-

ly make sure they are in good hands when they arrive. Everything from attorneys to schools; even multiple options for other title agents if we are not the optimum fit. There's nothing worse than being in a new place not knowing where to start."

The relationship she forges with her clients means she is there to help them find and connect with the right utility companies, locate community resources, and even help them figure out which grocery store is the most like H-E-B when there isn't one. Rosemary says, "Not everyone is able to take moving in stride so I am happy to help make every transition smoother where I can."

Different States, Different Rules

closing services in all 50. She adds, "I can also step in when investment properties or commercial deals reach a breach of contract or any other legal challenges. It's all about keeping things consistent for the client by keeping the work under one roof."

She is also well versed in the universe of tax implications and keeps exemptions or deductions on clients' radar when she knows they qualify for them. "If I don't know the specifics, I will find someone who does."

Whether you're moving across the street or across the country this summer, Transformation is the one-stop shop to help you transition with confidence and comfort.

Some states require an attorney to close a home sale so, as an attorney, Rosemary and Transformation Title & Escrow can provide

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K ID S

by Cassidie Cox • photos courtesy GSA

GSA: BEST IN THE FIELD T

he weather is warm, and school is ending soon for the summer. With so many great local activities to choose from, now is the perfect time to consider Georgetown Soccer Association (GSA). Founded by professional coach Ray Thomas, the GSA has been providing fitness and training since 1981. It was Ray's dream to provide soccer training for kids in a fun and safe environment, and the GSA has grown into a successful non-profit that hosts nearly 700 players.

“I believe what sets us apart is our staff and longevity,” says GSA Coach Jill Gardner. “I love how family-oriented everyone is. We are small, but we really care about our families, and overall development— not just training kids but helping them grow in their passion to play.”

PLAY FOR ALL GSA incorporates a variety of team play with a multitude of goals—in every sense of the word. From recreational to select teams to summer camps, they welcome players, regardless of skill level, who wish to play and train.

LEADING FROM THE MIDDLE To the people at GSA, soccer is not just about training; it’s about building kids up for a bright future.

Director of coaches Manny Buentello says, “We create an environment that is fun and safe for players to get the tools they need to go forward in life.”

The coaches and directors take 'play for all' to heart and work tirelessly to provide financial aid via sponsorships from association families and community partners. Manny says, "It is our goal to help every kid who wants to, to play and train without worry."

The GSA also offers training programs for high school players to help them develop the skills and stamina that can help make them eligible for soccer scholarships in college. Many college-age GSA alumni return to coach, and some older alums have brought their own kids to the field to continue the tradition of fun and excellence.

GSA SUMMER CAMPS June • U7-U12 (deadline June 7th) and July • U7-U12 (deadline July 5th) For younger players, the Li'l Kicker camps (U5-U6) is an introductory camp with daily themes, musical ball touches with FUN as #1.

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ED U CAT ION

IT'S COMMENCEMENT

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by Cassidie Cox

G

raduation is fast approaching for the seniors in our three Georgetown high schools and our community is preparing to celebrate the Class of 2022.

Executive Director of Community Engagement & Communications Melinda Brasher says, “Celebrating people, students and staff, is so important to us. It’s a very Georgetown thing to do, having the whole town in on it.”

What to expect in the coming weeks...

THERE WILL BE NO LIMIT ON IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE AT THE CEREMONIES. ALL ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Richarte Graduation • Thursday, May 26, location TBD East View Graduation • Friday, May 27, GISD Stadium Georgetown Graduation • Saturday, May 28, GISD Stadium All graduation ceremonies will be held at 8pm, and will be live-streamed for friends or family members who cannot attend.

All ceremonies will be outside and, in case of inclement weather, the rain date for each will be the following morning at 8am.

A New Tradition Continues The senior parade, which began in 2020 and has since turned into a beloved hallmark of convocation will be Saturday, May 21.

All seniors are encouraged to register and decorate their cars to participate in a parade, which will follow the Poppy Festival route. The entire community is invited to gather and enjoy from vantage points on around the downtown Square.

Until then, seniors are still hard at work with the last of their studies and activities but May is a good month, and our youth are a good reason for Georgetown to collectively celebrate.

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MAY 2022

ED UCAT IO N

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Contributed by April Peiffer WCRAS Community Programs Director

S H ELT ER

S T O RIES

Summer Volunteering at WCRAS

W

hile you might be thinking about vacations and backyard barbecues, there are opportunities to give back to your community (and help a furry friend) this summer with the WCRAS.

YOUR TIME AND TALENT Volunteering at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) comes in many forms and fashions. There are the obvious things one might think of as volunteer efforts in a shelter; e.g., walking dogs, petting cats, scooping poop, which are very much welcome— but there are also many out-of-the-box opportunities.

Have a gift for gab? WCRAS is invited to attend many events in the community, especially in the summer.

These events are a great place to share your outgoing nature and help spread the word to those in attendance about great things the shelter does. You could also bring an adoptable dog along, help get him adopted, and educate someone there on the importance of microchipping.

Or maybe you enjoy helping behind the scenes.

The shelter has volunteers who write biographies for adoptable dogs and cats, some who help out with special projects—data entry or translations or, if you have graphic design skills, WCRAS would love to put that talent to work designing fliers for the dogs and cats.

Speaking of fliers, the Advocate Program is a great way to do it all. Volunteers in the Advocate Program select

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MAY 2022

their favorite adoptable pet and go to work teaching new tricks or skills.

Then, market him or her in any and every way you can think of. Want to post an ad on Craigslist? You can do that! Want to see your favorite dog or cat showcased in one of the display cases? Create a flier! The shelter encourages Advocates to be creative and think outside the box in finding new ways to show off their favorite adoptable pet.

VOLUNTEER AT HOME Did you know that fostering is also a form of volunteering? Fostering is a great way to get involved, right from the comfort of your own home.

Fostering means providing a temporary, loving home for an animal in need. WCRAS will provide supplies if you need them—the shelter has them to share—and cover the cost of any required medical care. Fosters can live anywhere, as long as you can make it to the shelter for meet and greets, etc. If you have kids or other pets, WCRAS will help find the perfect match for your home.

The time period for fostering varies by need, but can be as short as a single weekend. Plus, fostering is a great way to get the kids involved.

If any of this sounds like an excellent way to spend some of your summer downtime, scan the code to get started. WCRAS loves their volunteers, and they hope to see you soon!

Let Your Pet Be Our Guest!

MAY 2 0 2 2

21

G E O R GE TO W N E X P E R I E N CE

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

I

n an effort to relieve an overcrowded downtown, the City of Georgetown has been working to hold more events beyond the Square. When the Troubadour Festival team suggested hosting their second annual music and barbecue bonanza at Garey Park, staff were excited about another chance to showcase Georgetown while drawing many to one of our many nature gems. “Our downtown festivals are top notch, but we can’t push every event to the Square,” Councilman Kevin Pitts says. “We have other excellent options and the event promoters recognized it too. Garey Park is a great asset for Georgetown and unique in many ways. Troubadour Festival will introduce many new people to this amazing park.”

The festival combines two things Texans love, festival co-owner Chase Colston says—barbecue and music.

“We pride ourselves on the best barbecue restaurants in the world, and we love our country music so if someone loves one or the other, or even better yet, both, we’ve put together the ultimate event. Troubadour Festival is the largest barbecue and music festival in the state, and being a part of that is something folks don’t want to miss.”

THE EVENT On Saturday, June 4, forty-four of Texas’ best barbecue joints and nine musicians and bands will gather in “a beautiful city with a lot to offer,” Chase adds. “We love the vibe of the city, the people, and the sup22

MAY 2022

port we’ve gotten so far. We didn’t want this to be just another event in Austin. We look at cities that are not only rapidly growing, but have a big desire to bring great new events they can be proud of to town. When we saw Garey Park the first time, we knew we were bringing Troubadour Festival to the right place in Central Texas.”

great, but when a lot of those events started, they were designed to beg people to come to the Square.

Now we’ve got more people on the Square than we know what to do with. We’re trying not to clump everything onto the Square every single weekend. Garey Park and San Gabriel were built to do something like this.”

Mayor Schroeder describes the event as “absolutely right in line with our economic development strategy, which is to activate our Square. We love the Red Poppy Festival and it’s

The mayor is also excited about the festival being a mix of his two favorite things. “I’m a huge barbecue and country music fan. This is basically my playlist invited to Georgetown and I had nothing to do with it,” he says with a laugh. “The minute I saw the lineup, I was pretty excited.

We’ve got some good folks coming to town.”

TICKETS The Troubadour Festival welcomes people of all ages, and kids 10 and under are allowed in for free. Those who can’t make it on June 4 will have another chance to experience the festival when it comes to Tyler Sept 10 and Celina on Oct 15.

Scan the code (above) for tickets and info.

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S ER VICE C O M M U NIT Y

"Lend a Hand" in Georgetown

The Georgetown Beard Club

What began as a small group of guys helping neighbors in need has snowballed into a community effort to ensure the senior couple gets back on their feet after Winter Storm Uri destroyed their home.

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

I

n March 2021, Georgetown Beard Club President Rob Kiddie was asked to help a local family who needed home repairs and had gone without water since the freeze. The club raised $8,000, figuring that would be enough for the hole in the roof and a few busted pipes, only to find the home in much worse condition than expected due to deterioration over many years. “We can’t just put a Band-Aid on this,” Rob realized. “We basically dug our feet into the ground, put our nose to the grindstone, and decided we would help this family regardless. We can’t walk away from it now. We’re committed.”

Texas Baptist Men and community volunteers at the Black home.

MANY HANDS Chris and Emily Hamilton, who told Rob about the need, have driven the project and served as project superintendents. Others have stepped up to lend a hand, including Texas Baptist Men, First Baptist Church of Georgetown, Crestview Baptist Church, Texas Traditions Roofing, Water Mission, Prime Wall Systems, Structura, Home Depot, L&M Construction, Allied Electrical, donor and volunteer Scott Linebrink, and numerous other businesses and donors listed on the club’s website. The Walburg Annual Invitational BBQ Cook-Off also raised $17,000 for the family after donating $5,000 last year.

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MAY 2022

Three members of Texas Baptist Men spent 104 hours on these custom handmade cabinets.

CO M M UNIT Y

One year into their labor of love, the Georgetown Beard Club has raised almost $100,000 in monetary and in-kind donations. “It was a community effort. A lot of companies stepped up and really helped us out,” Rob says.

One year into their labor of love, the Georgetown Beard Club has raised almost $100,000 in monetary and in-kind donations. “It was a community effort. A lot of companies stepped up and really helped us out,” Rob says.

As the family wanted to remain on the property during the project, the Beard Club purchased a trailer for them to stay in, and the Hamiltons built a ramp for a wheelchair-bound son.

Happily, the family has been able to watch their home undergo a complete overhaul, as club members fixed the holes in the floor, repaired the decking, added new stucco sidings, rebuilt the back patio, and replaced the roof.

In addition to a longer-than-expected timeline, volunteers have faced supply shortages for materials like lumber, decking, and currently, electrical supplies. But making a difference in others’ lives has made the challenges worthwhile. “It’s easy enough to write a check to the Red Cross and other big charities, but we never get to see the impact for ourselves,” Rob says.

“When you write a check to fix a neighbor's house, you see that tangible benefit of the people you’re helping. That makes it worth it.

That’s why we do this.”

LEND A HAND CAMPAIGN While the home repair project is coming to an end, the Lend a Hand Campaign is still in need of items like countertops, doors, decking for ADA-compliant ramps, and household appliances. To donate, visit georgetownbeardclub. com. For project updates, check out the Unanswered Prayers Facebook page and the club’s website.

S ER VI C E

The most rewarding part of the project has not only been getting to help a local family in need; it’s been getting to know Bill and Lillian Black. A generous-hearted, salt-of-theearth couple in their 70s, as Rob describes them, the Blacks have four children and adopted eight special needs kids.

`When the Georgetown Beard Club started, the goal was simply to improve the image of people with facial hair. The club has since evolved into a charity-focused group of a dozen members who host fundraisers throughout the year for various causes and charities.

“Our mission has been to make our community a better place every day,” Rob says. “Everything we do is to try to make sure it has a local impact in our community. What’s more local than our neighbors?”

Plus, the group is open to anyone, beard or none. Rob says, “If you’ve got eyebrows, that counts as facial hair. All we ask is that you support the charitable causes we want to support.

Men or women, anyone who wants to come out and do some good in the community.”

MAY 2 0 2 2

25

TO W N A R O UN D

The most significant

"" Person of Interest""

by Ann Marie Kennon • images courtesy J. Warner Wallace

W

hat's a detective to do in a death case with no body or crime scene? Imagine, further, trying to solve the case when it is 2,000 years old. That is just what retired detective and author J. Warner Wallace set out to do in his latest book, Person of Interest: Why Jesus Still Matters in a World That Rejects the Bible.

On May 13, Reasons to Believe, a local Christian apologetics ministry, is partnering with Main Street Baptist to bring J. Warner to Georgetown to discuss how Jesus' impact on the world demonstrates who He is and who He said He was. Chapter President John Murphy says Wallace is the best speaker he has seen in 20 years, and Dateline correspondents call him 'the evidence whisperer'.

Mr. Wallace says, "When you ask people to make a case for Jesus, most will talk about how He changed their life, rather than making a case for him. Many could make a case for a sports team but can't do the same for Jesus. I hope to use my time to open people's eyes to how someone like Jesus—with no education or family—was able to change everything. It is very unlikely that a fictional person, or 'just another guy' in history could have done so."

DETECTIVE WALLACE J. Warner started his career following in his father's law enforcement footsteps. He began as a patrol officer and worked his way up to robbery-homicide. He picked up unsolved homicides as collateral duty and it soon became a full-time job.

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MAY 2022

Normally, he says, a cold case might take 15 to 20 years to solve.

"Some people commit crimes and leave no clues. When you have no body or crime scene, you treat the murder like a bomb. The fuse is the information about what the victim and POIs did leading up to the murder. The fallout is the 'debris' of what the POI did after the event.

That's what I use to build a case."

COMING TO FAITH When he retired from the force, he was introduced to the idea that Jesus was the smartest man who ever lived and it provoked him to purchase a Bible to see if it was true.

Over time, he became convinced that what the Gospels were telling him was true and he has been writing and speaking about it ever since. "I am accustomed to direct evidence and eyewitness testimony.

I applied my process to Christianity and, after all, isn't part of being a Christian about wanting to tell others about Jesus?"

A CERTAIN SET OF SKILLS In his book, J. Warner invites readers to become better historians by leveraging detective skills, which he says are pretty interesting to most people, to test things for themselves.

" N O O N E WATC H E S T H E I . D. C H A N N E L TO B E CO M E A H I S TO R I A N ."

He explains, "Look at the fuse of the tensions rising in the Roman Empire, and the things Jesus did before and after the crucifixion. Ev-

erything the first century Christians did was the fallout and the Book of Acts is the eyewitness testimony to the 'bomb' that was Jesus."

All are encouraged to attend his free keynote presentation in Georgetown (no registration or tickets needed) to hear more about the impact that speaks to Jesus' deity in our modern reality. "Jesus never points to a blind faith. He basically said if you don't believe in the things I'm saying, believe in my miracles, or believe my eyewitnesses. The Scriptures are all the direct and indirect evidence we need."

See the event ad on page 28. For those unable to attend, scan the code to purchase his book.

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P RAY ER

Executive turned Whistleblower

IN

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

E

L E A D E RS H IP

ncouraging morality and ethics in leaders while emphasizing the power of prayer have been the goals of the Williamson County Leadership Prayer Breakfast since it began in 2018. "Every decision they make affects all the citizens of the county," event chairman Chris Logue says. "Anytime we can remind them of why they're there, and who they're leading for, God or themselves, we see that as a major win."

Mark Whitacre learned his lesson the hard way after becoming involved in the largest price-fixing scheme in U.S. history and ultimately finding faith and the true meaning of leadership in prison.

His journey from "selfish leadership to servant leadership," as he described it at this year's prayer breakfast at the Main Street Baptist Center in March, began at Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) in 1989, when he became divisional president of the biotech division and corporate vice president of ADM at 32 years old. "I lived in a mansion. I had my own jet. I was making millions of dollars. I had an eight-car garage. I was so selfish and full of myself," he said at the 30

MAY 2022

Chief Allen Banks, Mark Whitacre, Asst. Chief Willie Richards

breakfast that drew 350 business and government leaders like Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan, Judge Donna King, and Round Rock Police Chief Allen Banks.

Two years after working at the food production giant and Fortune 500 company, he was introduced to "how ADM does business," which involved meeting with competitors and fixing prices for ingredients like lysine and high fructose corn syrup. "That's fraud. That's illegal," he told the vice chair, who replied, "Mark, the laws are from the 1800s. Those politicians know nothing about business. In a commodity business, that's what you have to do."

Having just received a bonus and told he was being trained to take over as president one day, Mark didn't feel like he was in a position to walk away from this "international cartel." His wife, Ginger, felt differently. She warned that if he didn't turn himself in to the FBI, she would.

"I could go to prison. The CEO is best friends with Clinton. They will destroy us," he said.

"MY CEO IS BIGGER THAN YO U R C E O. M Y C E O I S J E S U S ," WA S H E R RESPONSE. A meeting with the FBI the next day turned into three years of Mark wearing a wire to price-fixing meetings around the world. Compared to wearing a wire, which he calls the toughest three years of his life, "Prison was a cakewalk." While he was promised full immunity by the FBI, fear of the future drove Mark to write company checks for $9 million to himself the day ADM found out he was an informant, leading to an eight-and-a-half year prison sentence. "I thought my life was ending at age 40," he said.

Three months into his sentence, Mark surrendered his life to Jesus and began discipling other inmates, calling those eight years the

L EAD ERS H IP

THE PRAYER BREAKFAST In 2018, Sun City’s Jerry Geiger who founded the Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast, now called the Williamson County Leadership Breakfast, described the Georgetown event as an outreach to our community and Williamson County leadership to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

THE HOLLYWOOD VERSION Matt Damon played Mark Whitacre in the 2009 "The Informant", a movie that both Mark and the FBI disliked because they felt it portrayed the experience as a comedy. Mark's story returned to the screen the next year in the Discovery Channel documentary, "Undercover: Double Life".

Jerry added a reminder to readers that the National Day of Prayer is May 5 and he encourages citizens to unite in prayer for our nation.

Mark 10:45 - For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

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Today, 32 years later, Mark now works as executive director of Coca-Cola Consolidated while continuing to publicly share his story of redemption and second chances. He remains grateful for his wife and three kids as well as his faith that carried him through the experience that shaped him into the servant leader he is today.

"Looking back, I thank God

for this journey of brokenness.

Without brokenness, I wouldn't have known God today."

IN

most rewarding ones of his life.

"I became a free man in prison.

That life of greed and materialism and power—that was my prison before I ever entered prison."

Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan reflected on our community-oriented Williamson County, "It's been some of the toughest times we've ever been a part of. Going through the last week and seeing our community come together, it's a special place we live in because we do come together. If you want to be a leader, serve others.”

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T E X A S W I N E COUN T RY

H i ll Country Wine Tours:

by Ann Marie Kennon photos courtesy Dave and Ruth Love

A Grape Road Trip

M

ove over, barbecue and rodeos, wine is quickly becoming the reason to visit Central Texas. Fortunately, Dave and Ruth Love, the experts and owners of Hill Country Wine Tours LLC provide private, door to door, and all-inclusive day trips to wineries and distilleries throughout the Texas Hill Country seven days a week.

There are many obvious benefits of taking advantage of a guided tour—being picked up at your own home and chauffeured in a climate-controlled motor coach, plus being able to taste as much wine and whiskey as you wish without worrying about the drive home. But what sets the Loves apart is their customized planning, which delivers exactly what guests are looking for in a wine or spirits tour.

With over 30 years experience in the music industry and moving artists and large groups around the world, planning is second nature to Dave. "After visiting and pitching artists all over the world—arranging pick ups, deciding where to eat, doing sound checks and performances, I became a master of logistics. Later, as a wine lover, I fell into the tour business quite naturally."

Thanks to Dave's instincts and the partnerships and personal relationships the Loves have with nearly 40 36

MAY 2022

wineries and distilleries, they are able to curate an experience based on guests' palettes and passion for pairings, geographical areas, beautiful views, or even a desire to be entertained in a tree house. Dave says, "With more than 100 wineries in the region, it's a challenge for many to decide which ones to visit, or in what order to make the most of their travel time.

We know each site's specialty and which offer the best options for facilities, depending on the weather, for indoor and outdoor enjoyment."

In any case, the tours are perfect for anyone who wants to entertain out-of-state guests or simply get out and have fun by digging deep into the wines of the Hill Country. The Loves also offer mix-n-match excursions with vineyards and distilleries. Each estate is a just a 10 to 15 minute drive and as they know the area so well, they are able to schedule everything to maximize sipping, eating, and shopping versus drive time.

WHEN TO GO Hill Country Wine Tours will reserve a day or evening tour for as few as two people seeking an elevated private experience and, conversely, no group is too large. Tours are available seven days a week and some holidays year round, and are a very popular choice for

weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, and corporate retreats or events.

Typically, Dave says, clients book their excursions six weeks to three months in advance. "We are sometimes able to accommodate guests at the last minute but, this year, those weekends are somewhat limited."

WHAT TO EXPECT A typical day on tour may include visiting and tastings at three vineyards and an enjoyable lunch or dinner. When guests arrive at any of the planned destinations, they'll find the Loves—experts at relationship building—are known by everyone from the tasting room managers down to the ambassadors serving the wine.

road to our three most popular spots; Johnson City, Hye, Stonewall, and Fredericksburg. We may also head to the Dripping Springs and Driftwood area for white spirits; vodka, rum, and gin."

Hill Country Wine Tours also provides VIP treatment for families who wish to share the experience with their children. Dave says, "We can drive you to your special event, or schedule a stop at a winery that allows children and we always make sure to include apples in the package for the kids to feed the donkeys or longhorns."

Scan the code to make a new memory today.

" O U R F R I E N D S AT T H E W I N E R I E S A N D D I S T I L L E R I E S O N T H E TO U R K N O W W H E N W E WA L K I N , A L L O F O U R G U E S T S A R E V I P S A N D N O T W O TO U R S A R E T H E S A M E ."

Dave and Ruth select one or two focal points and build on those. "For groups of six or more, we will visit three estates with a lunch," Dave adds. "If there are fewer than six guests, we can do as many as four estates because we can move more nimbly between the sites. In any case, we always have reservations."

SET APART...

As their motor coach says, “You drink we drive,” and guests are provided cold water and Topo Chicos, or all can enjoy their own wine or spirits while on board. The company is fully insured and registered with the State of Texas and the Department of Transportation and their herd of 15 passenger vans are new, comfortable, and the belles of the 290 Wine Road.

...AND FAMILY FRIENDLY In addition to tours of the Hill Country Dave and Ruth's vans are available for transportation to any destination; e.g., airport pickups, or drops at concerts, rodeos, SWSX, sporting events, and festivals across the state. "We will pick up or drop anywhere," Dave says.

"From Georgetown, Killeen, San Antonio, Kerrville, we head to the 30-mile stretch of the Route 290 wine

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T E X A S W I N E COUN T RY

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T E X A S W I N E COUN T RY

TRENDS

by Cassidie Cox

Sustainable Wine I F YO U E N J OY A N I C E B OT T L E O F W I N E B U T A L S O WA N T TO D O YO U R PA R T TO P R OT E C T T H E E N V I R O N M E N T, S U S TA I N A B L E W I N E I S U P YO U R A L L E Y.

Wine Trends The wine industry has seen a years-long trend in organic wine.

The International Wines and Spirits Record expected a 9.2 percent annual growth rate in organic wine consumption between 2017 and 2022, with a projected 87.5 million cases of organic wine being sold.

Organic wines, however, are not always sustainable. Sustainable wines must meet a different standard.

Organic vs. Sustainable In the U.S., the Department of Agriculture certifies wine as organic when it meets the following requirements: Grapes are grown without synthetic fertilizers, and in a manner that protects the environment and preserves the soil.

Other agricultural ingredients that go into the wine, such as yeast, are also certified organic.

38 38

MAY MAY2022 2022

Any non-agricultural ingredients must be specifically allowed on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances and can’t exceed 5 percent of the total product.

No sulfites are added. Sulfites are put in most food and drinks to keep them from going bad, however too much sulfite can cause some health issues. Sustainable and organic growing and wine making share common practices, such as using natural soil additives.

Sustainability, however, is also about how the grapes are grown.

In the state of Texas, the Austin Bartending Company says, sustainability means “traditional wine-making techniques are observed.”

Sustainable 101 Another name for sustainable wines in Texas is biodynamic wine. “It is like organic wine on overdrive,” the Austin Bartending Company says. This is also to do with the growth of the grapes themselves.

Biodynamic producers use compost instead of artificial fertilizer, for instance, and plan to harvest in

tandem with the natural progression of the seasons. As vineyards do not need as much water as other crops, it is more sustainable for farmers to plant vines in the spring with heavier rain. The vines are able to tolerate the Texas summers, and then are ready for harvest come fall.

Sustainable winemakers also ensure biodiversity among their wines, ensure the health of their soil, practice recycling and water conservation, and use renewable energy in their operations.

This biodynamic method prevents strain on the environment, as well as giving the wine itself a better flavor. Growers and winemakers use the term “terroir” when talking about how sustainable and organic wines are able to preserve the natural flavors found in the soil.

Fortunately, these and the weather patterns that shaped each harvest provide the different 'tastes' of Texas.

Be sure to look for the green sticker that certifies organic wine, and any other label that boasts sustainable farming for a better and healthier experience.

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T E X A S W I N E COUN T RY

Yeah, you blend...

by Ann Marie Kennon Cabernet Sauvignon, an American favorite, was a blend until the 1600s, when a red Cabernet Franc grape plant and a white Sauvignon Blanc grape plant were accidentally hybridized and became a new species.

enhance the flavor and aroma.

For example, Cabernet Sauvignon usually has Merlot added to soften strong tannins.

BLENDING

O

ver the centuries, winemakers have discovered and refined their notion of which grapes work best alone, or in a blend. Blending is the process by which the vintner or bottler combines different varietal (single-grape) wines into a new, more complex wine that is, hopefully, better than its parts.

This has not always been a popular thing to do because, particularly in Europe, wine makers do not want, or cannot afford to move or mix grapes across national borders. Plus, with a rich and extensive history of fine products, some remain committed to maintaining the purity of their French/Spanish/Italian etc. heritage labels.

Here in the New World, the blended category is common, especially for reds and California wines. The goal of many vintners is to create bottles that can stand with classic European wines like Bordeaux.

Still, “good” wine is always on the palate of the drinker, so blending has its fans and critics.

SINGLE-GRAPES Varietal wines may use grapes from different parts of a vineyard, or even different regions, but they must be the same species. In America, the grape variety listed on the label must constitute at least 75 percent of the bottle, leaving 25 percent for other grapes that will

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MAY 2022

Since wine lovers enjoy complexity, most grapes lack the balance to create great wines by themselves. When blended, they create a symbiotic relationship is created that improves color and ripeness. Blends can be between grape types, by vintage, and even between reds and whites. Some take that seriously; the berry and herb-flavored Châteauneuf-du-Pape red is a combination of 13 black, yellow, and pink grapes.

Some winemakers make wines specifically for blending, like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. As the grapes are harvested, the winemaker decides on the best formula for a blend, and pulls out specific barrels for experimenting. Some mix right away to allow the grapes to ferment together, but they can also wait and start with the aging process or even mix them later with another harvest. The perfect result will highlight each grape’s strength and complement the other grapes being used in the blend.

COMMON BLENDS New World winemakers are known for more creative blends, by combining grapes that are not typically mixed. For special tastings in 2022, VinePair.com recommends Chimney Rock Winery's Elevage Red Blend 2019. "The standout wine from this year’s tasting, this velvety Napa Valley bottling delivers a seamless combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Despite spending 18 months in 100 percent new French oak, fruit character still shines throughout.

Subtle notes of vanilla and cinnamon linger beneath the surface, bringing nuance and intrigue to each supple sip."

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There's Wine in Them Hills WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”? by Ann Marie Kennon and Doug Lytton

T

houghts of Texas may bring to mind images of tumbleweeds and armadillos, and landscapes only suitable for cattle drives. Sure, the Lone Star State is still the place for cowboys and brisket but it is worth noting that there is so much more.

Texas also has 5,000 acres of vineyards and eight American Viticultural1 Areas.

TEXAS VITICULTURE Texans have been growing grapes and making wine for hundreds of years; long before Californians and Virginians. According to The Wine Bible by Karen MacNeil, the first wine grapes in the Americas arrived with Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Those 'parent' grapes made it to Mexico by 1660 and were planted in 1 Th e b ro a d ter m en co m p a s s i n g th e c u l ti vat io n , p ro tec t io n , a n d h a r ve s t o f gra pe s wh ere t h e o p erat io n s a re ou td o o r s.

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west Texas vineyards by Franciscan priests who needed a good supply of wine to celebrate Mass. Later, early Texas settlers considered wine to be a staple and planted many European vines among their crops, in an effort to stay connected to their cultural roots.

Over time, three wine regions evolved in Texas—High Plains, Hill Country, and Trans-Pecos—and the state is now fifth in terms of wine production. About 73 percent of Texas wine grapes are grown on the Texas High Plains, a flat, arid, high-elevation area. Long, hot summers with cool nights balance grape acidity, and low rainfall decreases the chance of disease. Plus, there is much mineral-rich soil that consists mostly of sandy loam over limestone. In the Hill Country, the area around Route 290 in Fredericksburg is the second largest wine destination in America.

Wine Growers Association and sits on the board of the Texas Hill Country Wineries Association.

The tasting room showcases a restored 1926 building and courtyard and the wines feature warm weather varietals such as Tempranillo, Viognier, Trebbiano, Sangiovese. This intimate small town setting offers exceptional wines and great service.

W I NE

All Texas wines express the minerality of the region and the state’s warm climate allows the fruit to stay on vine for less time and be harvested earlier than those of California. With long, hot summers, infrequent freezes, and unpredictable storms, Texas winemakers intentionally choose hardy grape varieties well suited for each region.

TEXAS

With high heat and also plenty of limestone, the Hill Country is an optimum micro-climate for many varieties of grapes. The flavors here are more akin to those that grow in Italy and Spain than the chilly slopes of Northern California.

COUN T RY

Torr Na Lochs in Burnet has a view to remember and five wineries. All are well worth the drive and spending time in authentic Texas ranch towns that welcome visitors with great hospitality, food, shopping, and wine.

A LOCAL TASTE OF TEXAS Legato Winery in Lampasas produces a fruit forward, handcrafted Texas wine that is aged in a combination of French and American Oak barrels, giving the wines the best of both hints of vanilla and cherry from the American Oak and the smoothness from the French Oak barrels. Legato wines include varietals: Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Blanc Du Bois, and a very smooth blend of reds that the vintner calls Family Reunion.

Wedding Oak Winery, named for the beautiful and centuries-old Wedding Oak Tree in San Saba, is the town favorite. Mike McHenery, Managing Partner of the Winery, is President of the Texas

The Texas Tally

Elevation: Higher elevations mean more direct ultraviolet rays, giving grapes thicker skin. This can lead to more color and more tannins in the wine.

Soil: Minerals in the soil the grapes grow in are often expressed in the wine.

Climate: Warmer temperatures cause grapes to ripen quicker but, ideally, temperatures will drop at night so the plants stop the photosynthesis process and preserve freshness and acidity.1

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4802 Moreland Drive Georgetown 512-868-8300 104 Copper Lane Jarrell East 512-746-2333 105 Western Sky Trail Jarrell West

• Christian-based character building using ABEKA Curriculum NOW 512-598-3900 • Student-led & blended learning using technology to fit varying HIRING 107 S. 7th St. learning styles.

AT ALL Jarrell Downtown • Encourage strong parent & community involvement and investment LOCATIONS! 512-746-4144 • Encourage mentoring & working with diverse groups in a multi-grade classroom • Hands-on learning opportunities & field trips • Texas certified teachers FOR QUESTIONS, INFO, OR TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, VISIT US ONLINE OR CALL ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS. • Exceeding TEKS Objectives

KIDSZONELEARNINGCENTER.ORG

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FOOD • COOK ING W I T H W INE

Finishing the Rest of the Bottle “If you do not have a good wine to use, it is far better to omit it, for a poor one can spoil a simple dish and utterly debase a noble one.” ~Julia Child

ULTIMATE POT ROAST INGREDIENTS

• 1 boneless beef chuck-eye or other chuck roast (3 to 4 pounds) • 2 tsp pepper • 2 tsp salt, divided • 2 tbsp canola oil • 2 med onions, cut into 1-inch pieces • 2 celery ribs, chopped

Suggested amounts of wine to add: Soups: 2 T per cup Sauces: 1 T per cup Gravies: 2 T per cup Stews & Meats: 1/4 cup per pound Poaching liquid for fish: 1/2 cup per quart

• 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tbsp minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 2 bay leaves • 1 c dry red wine (or reduced-sodium beef broth) • 2 c reduced-sodium beef broth • 1 lb small red potatoes, quartered • 4 med parsnips, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces • 6 med carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar • 2 tbsp minced fresh parsley • Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 325°. Pat roast dry with paper towel; tie at 2-in. intervals with kitchen string. Sprinkle roast with pepper and 1-1/2 t salt. In Dutch oven, heat oil over med-high heat. Brown roast on all sides. Remove from pan.

Add onions, celery and 1/2 t salt to the pan; cook and stir over med heat 8-10 mins or until onions are browned.

Add garlic, tomato paste, thyme and bay leaves; cook and stir 1 min longer.

Add wine, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan; stir in broth. Return roast to pan. Arrange potatoes, parsnips and carrots around roast; bring to a boil.

Bake, covered, until meat is fork-tender, 2-2-1/2 hours.

Remove roast and vegetables from pan; keep warm. Discard bay leaves; skim fat from cooking juices. On stovetop, bring juices to a boil; cook until liquid is reduced by half (about 1-1/2 cups), 10-12 minutes. Stir in vinegar and parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove string from roast.

Serve with vegetables and sauce.

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• 8 c chicken broth

DIRECTIONS

• 1/2 c finely chopped onion

In a large saucepan, heat broth and keep warm. In a Dutch oven, saute onion in oil until tender. Add rice and garlic; cook and stir for 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat; stir in wine.

Cook and stir until all of the liquid is absorbed.

• 1/4 c olive oil • 3 c arborio rice • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 c dry white wine (or water) • 1/2 c shredded Parmesan cheese • 1/4 tsp salt

FOOD • COOK ING W I T H W INE

CROCK POT LEMON-CHICKEN SOUP Add heated broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to absorb between additions. Cook just until risotto is creamy and rice is almost tender, about 20 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients; cook and stir until heated through. Serve immediately.

• 1/4 tsp pepper • 3 tbsp minced fresh parsley

MINI CHEESECAKES WITH WINE GELÉES •

Kate Zuckerman

• 3 T unsalted butter (melted, plus more for brushing) • 7 whole graham crackers • ½ cup plus 1 T sugar • 1 large egg • 1 large egg yolk • 1 pinch of salt • 10 ½ ounces log of fresh goat cheese (softened) • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons crème fraîche (5 ounces)

WINE GELEES

• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin • 2 ½ T cold water • 3 T each of orange Muscat, Pinot Noir and tawny port • 4 t sugar

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 325°. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut four 3-inch rounds of shirt cardboard.

Brush insides of four 3" round and 2-1/2"-deep ring molds with butter. In food processor, grind crackers with melted butter and 1 T sugar. Set the molds on baking sheet and line bottoms with cardboard rounds, trimming to fit. Pack crumbs into the molds; press to compact.

Bake 10 minutes. Let cool.

In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat egg, egg yolk, salt, and remaining 1/2 c of sugar at medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2 mins. Add goat cheese and beat until smooth. Fold in crème fraîche. Spoon mixture into the molds and smooth the tops. Bake about 30 minutes, until cheesecakes are just set but not browned. Let the

cheesecakes cool; refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour.

Heat a sharp, thin-bladed knife under hot water; dry the knife. Carefully run blade around the edge of each cheesecake. Pressing up on the cardboard, ease cheesecakes out of molds; return to baking sheet. Cut four 11"x2 1/2" strips of parchment paper. Wrap paper around the perimeter of each cheesecake to form a collar that extends 1" above the surface; secure with tape.

In small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let soften. Microwave at high power about 15 seconds or just until gelatin is melted. Put 4 wines in separate ramekins. Add 2 t sugar to rosé and Pinot Noir and microwave 20 seconds; stir to dissolve sugar. Stir 1 t melted gelatin into each of the 4 wines. Let wines stand until cooled, about 10 minutes. Pour one of the wine gelées over each cheesecake and refrigerate until chilled and set, about 20 minutes.

Remove parchment-paper collar from each cheesecake. Carefully remove cardboard bottoms and serve.

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512.868.1771

LONE STAR

@KWLoneStar KWLonestar.com

Office Location: 1003 S. Austin Ave. Georgetown

Paula Rowe 512.422.2904

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Each office is independently owned and operated.

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HOUSE CLEANING

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Customized to meet your needs Bonded and Insured Weekly, Bi-weekly and monthly

Move in & Move out Serving Georgetown & Round Rock Areas

Free Refrigerator Cleaning With any scheduled full house service. Expires 05/31/22

CALL TODAY for a free in home estimate

512-639-3906 • HisWayCleaning.com

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Thriving AFTER 55

CAPTIVATING

WRITING

Making Music for a Living Page 56

Meet Our Newest Sun City Writer Page 60

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East Meets West

by Charlotte Kovalchuk photo courtesy Hai Zheng

CELLIST HAI ZHENG SERENADES GEORGETOWN, INSPIRES NEXT GENERATION OF MUSICIANS

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rowing up during China’s Cultural Revolution, Shanghai native Hai Zheng discovered a love of music that carried her through her home’s upheaval all the way to the United States, where she continues to inspire audiences as well as the next generation of performers across Central Texas.

Hai's parents were physicians and traveled around China during the revolution.

Hai was raised by her grandmother on Gulangyu Island, also known as the Piano Island, in southeastern China.

Being surrounded by musicians and coming from a family of music lovers as well as doctors, Hai was faced with two career paths—an easy decision after she fell in love with the sound of a cello at school. “People always say music is the universal language,” she says. “I would take it one step further and say music is the language of the soul.”

Welcome to America Her journey to the U.S. began when she was offered a scholarship and the chance to study at the University of Texas at Austin. She later made her debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Knowing she had two avenues for a music career, Hai ended up choosing both, delighting classical music fans from the stage as well as shepherding students on their music journeys at Southwestern University. “It was time for me to pass on what I was taught to the next generation so I could give back,” she says.

Hai Zheng will be the featured speaker for the Full Circle: Speaker Series Thursday, May 19 at 6-7pm at the Grace Heritage Center 817 S Main St. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, email susiekellyflatau@suddenlink.net

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Over the course of her own music journey, Hai has performed around the world from Europe to Asia to North America. Of all her performing destinations, Georgetown is one of her favorites. Having taught at Southwestern since 1995, “I felt like I grew up with Georgetown,” she says.

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Meet our Newest Writer, Linda A. Thornton

by Cassidie Cox

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photo courtesy Linda Thornton

he editorial staff at the Georgetown View have wished for a writer who loves people and telling their stories. That wish came true with Linda Thornton. Not only does she have great writing skills and a warm perspective on the Georgetown community, she is also a published author.

WORLDLY VIEWS Linda was born in New York City, and migrated westward to Chicago and Arkansas before she and her husband settled down in Austin in 2016. Though she was happy to make use of her writing skills at various jobs over the years, she was always dreaming of bigger things.

While in Chicago, Linda ran into difficulties finding a high school she felt would provide a good education for her son and also enable him to thrive as he grew into young adulthood. As Linda tells it, “I went to Border’s to find a book on the subject, and there wasn't one. So I took it upon myself to write it."

The Chicago High Schools Report Card: A Guide to Finding the Right School for Your Child is a guide that helps parents navigate high school admissions, and compiles information about private, parochial, and public schools into one source so families can make well-informed decisions.

Revelation struck again while on a trip to Spain. She walked across the country on the Camino de Santiago and decided to blog about the experience. With plenty of inspired content from the journey, all that was lacking was a laptop and a bit of guidance for a blog 'voice.' Serendipitously, she won a laptop in a contest and found an ad for blog-writing classes in the local newspaper.

Her adventures—and blogging—continue at AMoxieGirl.com.

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WELCOME TO GEORGETOWN Linda was enticed to check out Georgetown at a happy hour in Austin. "I met a lady who lived in Sun City and asked, ‘Isn’t that where the old people live?’

But she laughed and said, ‘Come and see it, you’ll love it.’”

It was love at first sight for Linda. She and her husband moved to Sun City shortly after and one of the first things she did was join the San Gabriel Writers' League. She says she loves the vibrancy and energy of the community and as a whole and is enjoying building a community of her own among travelers and writers.

As a regular writer for the Georgetown View, Linda loves being able to work hard on an article then see it shared with her community in an instant. “Blending people’s stories into something that is a reflection of my own voice is my favorite thing,” Linda says.

Linda’s wish to write and enjoy her neighborhood came true, and so did our wish for someone who is excited to share the beauty of our town.

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FA C T S T O B L O W Y O U R M I N D

Not Just Pretty Faces Women own 36 percent of small businesses worldwide.

Their aggregate revenue is roughly $1.9 trillion.

The oldest mother is Rajo Devi, who gave birth to her first child in 2008—at 70 years old.

As most flowers have meanings, carnations are special on Mother’s Day. Symbolically, receiving a red carnation meant that your mother was alive, and a white one meant she had passed.

The circular saw, COBOL programming language, life rafts, fire escapes, medical syringes, Monopoly, and Kevlar were all invented by women. Plus...

In 1942, Hollywood bombshell Hedy Lamarr received a patent for the technology that evolved into wi-fi and bluetooth.

In 1987 Jamie Lee Curtis designed and patented a disposable diaper that included a waterproof pocket to hold baby wipes.

Christie Brinkley received a patent for an educational toy she designed in 1991 that seems to mostly be useful for helping kids learn the alphabet.

Florence Lawrence began in movies in 1906 and was considered the first 'movie star.' In 1914 she invented a turn signal for automobiles. Apparently invention was in her blood... her mother, Charlotte Bridgwood, invented and patented the electric windshield wiper in 1917.

Mother’s Day was originally called “Mother’s Friendship Day”. It was named in 1868 by Ann Jarvis, who was trying to foster friendship and community among the mothers on both sides of the Civil War. She later protested against the official holiday celebration because she believed it had become too commercialized.

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P O P P Y TA L K S

Weird MomThoughts

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heard recently that Mother’s Day is the second most celebrated holiday after Christmas. So, in the grand scheme of holidays, it’s Jesus, then moms—and I’m totally okay with that. As this year’s 2nd Place holiday approaches, I don't mind sharing.

I am really tired of living through major historical events all the time. Granted, I am happy to say I am 'living through' them but in terms of Earth-level happenings I'd prefer something more along the lines of a moon landing.

These days, while I don't believe we are actually in the End Times, all the bad news sometimes feels like we are at least in the fourth quarter. Which brings me to how I can bring this back around to Mother's Day... the only reason I worry about any of the world's problems is because I am a mom.

From the moment he was born, I have been prepared to fight bears and Visigoths for the sake of my son's life and well being. And while I am perfectly content to be called Home any time, motherhood changes everything so I can't help hoping the world turns itself around for his sake. I really have little to no say in anything that will happen to him when he grows up. Since I will never be as rich as Elon Musk (bless his heart), I am about as likely to provide Son an affordable interest rate or cheap gas as I am to be the host of The Oscars: CageMatch.

Hopefully, Son will live into the next century and I'm hoping, in that time, that he will have say, a month every now and then, without a catastrophe of some kind.

Really... just this year, it's only May and we've already lost Betty White and now Bruce Willis is sick. Someone please wrap Clint Eastwood in a bubble so nothing bad will happen to him.

I think a lot of moms would happily create ribbons and add Facebook frames to celebrate “Marginally Ordinary Awareness Month” right now. Imagine how much we would enjoy "IH-35 Construction Complete Day", or "Extremely Normal Climate Week". I’d even throw a party if the very first doctor I visited actually said, “Why yes, I know exactly that is and precisely how to heal you.”

I will also celebrate if I can get, like, four more friends on Facebook to go through my feed and react to all my posts that have 98 or 99 Likes so far. How can I have 638 friends but only 198 Likes on the best photo I ever took in my life? We'll call that "OCD Round Number Appreciation Day".

Maybe someone will invent a realistic Monopoly game in which the players circle the board, receive a stimulus check whenever they pass 'Go', endlessly pay rent, and never have enough money to buy property. It will at least make inflation mildly entertaining.

Perhaps the history books will include a paragraph or two for "No One Was Offended Today" day, and a future descendant might read in my diary about that time the cable guy showed up at the beginning of the appointment window. (Seriously, someone, somewhere has to be the first person on the route, right?)

I suppose I could consider these crazy times a blessing in disguise. This Alpha generation will grow up gritty and will appreciate the things we took for granted for a long time. They also will know so much more about us parents and grandparents because many of the photos we are leaving behind will be accessible anywhere and have captions. There's something to be happy about.

Happy Mother's Day, Georgetown!

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by Cassidie Cox

PA RTIN G

S HOT

A.M.E.'s "New" Mighty Cross

"INRI" is a representation of the Latin inscription on the tablet placed on the cross of Jesus: Iēsus Nazarēnus, Rēx Iūdaeōrum Jesus the Nazarene, King of the Jews

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ongregants of the historic Wesley Chapel AME Church at 508 W 4th Street gathered last month— for the first time in two years—to celebrate community and the power of giving. The church family reunited to hang a new cross gifted by local carpenter Chris Gossett, who was instrumental in the church's recent renovation.

During renovations, Chris separated a piece of the old church wood, which had stood for more than 100 years, and fashioned a cross from it for the congregation.

It was not the first time the church dedicated a new cross. Reverend Dr. William Quickley recalled, "We had a older cross donated by former patrons years ago.

Unfortunately, during renovations and cleaning, the cross was misplaced. The new cross is a bit bigger and it was very kind of Chris to make it for us. We are happy to have it just in time for Easter services."

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While the people who call Wesley Chapel their home had not met since early 2020, Dr. Quickley and First Lady Adrienne Evans-Quickley made the decision to assemble to celebrate the momentous occasion. Chris, who has attended the church for years, said, “Everybody takes from their community. It’s important to give back.” There will be a formal dedication to come for the new old cross, but the simplicity of an evening together to hang it was a time for excitement.

Dr. Quickley added, "This was the culminating event and represented the totality of the blessing we received from Jimmy Jacobs and his people who did the renovation on the church. It was a very moving and humbling experience to receive the cross into the church and all of Jimmy and Chris' efforts will not be forgotten."

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ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON GEORGETOWN, TX P. O. B ox 2 0 3 | Ja r rell, TX 76537