EDITOR'S NOTE

To celebrate Georgetown’s and Williamson County’s 175th birthdays this year, citizens gathered to add a new mural on the side of the county’s tax office building. “You’re part of history now!” one lady called out to the group of painters. It was indeed a memorable experience getting to join the community in contributing to our town’s art legacy.

From murals to arts festivals to community theater to literary hubs, Georgetown is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. It’s one that drew Christelle Bois to film an episode of The Story of Art in America in April. You can read about her experience in this issue as well as our town’s journey to becoming a cultural district and how it has grown as an arts and culture destination.

Speaking of films, our What Makes Texas, Texas section spotlights the many movies that have and continue to put our state on the film map.

When it comes to planning summer activities, be sure to check out our list of fun and family friendly events taking place all over Texas. Worth the Drive also shares more details on a few small-town festivals that celebrate everything from local history and ethnicity to music, food, and art.

Don’t forget to check out our food page for some festival-inspired recipes that will help you bring the festival experience home.

As we head into summer, consider giving back at the Wilco Regional Animal Shelter, which offers a multitude of volunteer opportunities. Or a nonprofit like Ride On Center for Kids, which recently raised half a million dollars for equine-assisted services at its annual Barn Dance fundraiser.

Let's not forget to send out some love to our GISD graduates! We also wish Dr. Fred Brent a grateful farewell as he begins his retirement. We are thankful for his efforts to transform GISD into the empowered, successful, and compassionate place it became under his leadership.

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 fulfillment 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.