Georgetown View magazine • February 2024

WORLD RECORD Still Flying High At 107!

SPOTLIGHT ON Wilco Projects with Comm. Valerie Covey

APPLES TO APPLES 2024 Precinct 3 Constable Race

ASK AN EXPERT Introducing 2024's Expert Columnists

FEBRUARY 2024

COLONEL TERRY WILSON HD-20's Soldier, Statesman, and Servant On The Future of Texas COVER SPONSOR

Political F E B RAdvertising UA R Y 2 0paid 2 4 for by Joe Savage 1

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EDITOR'S NOTE Dear Readers, This month we bring you a variety of features with a special focus on local leaders and candidates to get you ready for the 2024 election cycle.

Apples to Apples sheds light on our three Precinct 3 Constable candidates, Bert Witcher, Deke Pierce, and Kevin Wilkie, while 10 Questions features a Q&A with District 5 Councilman Kevin Pitts. County Commissioner Valerie Covey also took time to discuss projects aimed at tackling transportation and mental health challenges that have increased as a result of Williamson County’s growth.

As you prepare to head to the polls this year, check out Worth the Drive to learn about planning your next trip to a famed hub of political activity – the Texas capitol.

You can also flip to Business Briefs to discover all the latest establishments being added to Georgetown’s business scene.

Plus, we turned to several current, local businesses in our Ask the Expert columns to learn how to choose the right window treatments and accessory structures for your home, as well as how to know when it’s the right time to move into a senior living community.

Longhorn lovers can also look forward to What Makes Texas, Texas, which features the iconic Texas animal. On a similar pet topic, congratulations to Furrbaby Food Pantry on its recent grand opening! It was wonderful to see the community come together to support an organization that has stepped up to help pet owners in need.

That kind of love and compassion make the month of February truly special. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and memorable Valentine’s Day!

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 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.

EDITOR | CHARLOTTE KOVALCHUK charlotte@georgetownview.com

SENIOR WRITER Ann Marie Kennon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda A. Thornton • Rachel Strickland

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR Camy Reynolds

GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Eaton • Sandra Evans

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • Christianna Bettis

SALES DIRECTOR / ADVERTISING

Allison Smith 512.966.2164 • allison@georgetownview.com

IT / WEBMASTER Jesse Payne Georgetown View is an Optimus Media Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

Copyright © 2024 All rights reserved.

Georgetown View is mailed monthly via USPS 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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MARKETING & ADVERTISING 512-966-2164 (C) • 512-641-1370 (O) • allison@georgetownview.com 4

F E B R UA R Y 2024

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER Texas HD-20 Representative Terry Wilson and his wife, Shannon, at Veterans Memorial Park in Liberty Hill

p. 11 PHOTO BY TODD WHITE PHOTOGR APHY

Cover Sponsor

Restoring Wilco Values: Michael Salvo Aims for County GOP Chair Seeing a change in the Williamson County he grew up in motivated Michael Salvo to run for Williamson County GOP chair. “Georgetown still feels like small-town America, but you zoom out and it’s just booming. With recent election losses countywide, it feels like we’re losing the values that made Williamson County great.”

Michael believes both his experience and background as a fourth generation Williamson County conservative have prepared him for the Wilco GOP chair position. He previously held various leadership positions in the Republican party and currently serves as president of the Williamson County Young Republicans and executive director for the Texas Young Republican Federation. “I see the chair as a

strategic leader who focuses on long-term party building and sustainable success. My vision is to forge a party that is united, strong, and effective, not only for today but also influential for years to come, ensuring that Williamson County remains a wonderful place to raise a family and live a fulfilling life."

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COVER FEATURE Q&A with HD-20 Representative COL Terry Wilson

WILLIAMSON COUNTY A Look At Wilco's Future with Commissioner Valerie Covey

APPLES TO APPLES Precinct 3 Constable Candidates

COMMUNITY Al Blaschke Shares World Record Jump with Governor Abbott

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THEN & NOW

Gold's Department Store

EDUCATION Starstruck SU Grad Shines at NASA

ASK AN EXPERT Window Treatments Austin Window Fashions

10 QUESTIONS District 5 City Council Member Kevin Pitts

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SHELTER STORIES Continuing the Mission

NON-PROFIT Furrbaby Food Pantry

BUSINESS PROFILE Star Air

ASK AN EXPERT: Senior Living The Wesleyan

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ASK AN EXPERT Outdoor Structures Moore Liberty Buildings

WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS" Longhorns

WORTH THE DRIVE Play Tourist at the Texas Capitol

FOOD Mulligan's Chocolate Kahlúa Mousse Pie

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POPPY TALKS Poppy Hacks

BUSINESS BRIEFS What's Coming to Georgetown

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

GeorgetownViewMagazine

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ASK AN EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS Meet our esteemed panel of business owners and subject matter experts, each representing a leading local company and sharing knowledge and experience to enrich our content with specialized insights. Readers can look forward to quarterly contributions, delving into expertise-based topics, from each company.

This unique collaboration allows us to bring you cutting-edge information directly from the forefront of industry innovation.

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact allison@georgetownview.com or 512.966.2164.

Taylor Wadsworth • Austin Window Fashions Since 1981, the premier locally owned source for high quality blinds and shades from Hunter Douglas and factory direct, furniture-quality plantation shutters.

AustinWindowFashions.com • 512-256-8110 Clinton Harwell • Pignetti's & The Barton House Producer of Sensualis Wines Pignetti's has been acknowledged as one of the top 7 restaurants in Texas to have a glass of wine and one of the top 1,000 places in the world by Wine Spectator Magazine.

Deb Lohman • Blinded by the Light Expert in home décor finishing touches, including unique accessories, accent furniture, wall art, rugs, lamps, and gifts.

• 512-636-9653 Cedar Park Overhead Doors #1 Rated & largest overhead garage door specialists. Providing quality 24/7 garage door services and products for more than 30 years.

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Bethany Meyer Owner, Signature Aesthetics IV Lounge Nurse practitioner (MSN) Bethany Meyer opened Signature Aesthetics in 2020. She is also certified in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Pellet Therapy and BLS/CPR. SignatureAestheticsTX.com • 512-264-5662

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by Ann Marie Kennon • photos courtesy Rep. Terry Wilson

COVER FEATURE

Soldier, Statesman, Servant

A Candid Q&A with Texas Representative Terry Wilson GTV: Please tell our readers a bit about your background, and what inspired you to get involved in politics.

As a young man of 15 or 16, I was aimless and didn’t see any real path for myself until a vocational teacher at my school saw some promise in me. I learned electrical and plumbing skills during the day, but operating heavy equipment in the west Texas oilfield, especially the bulldozer, was my favorite. Building those dirt formations and working with dynamite nitrate — blowing the side off a hill — was when I realized I wanted to join the armed services.

It was vocational education that kept me in school, gave me a pathway, and planted the seeds of service that eventually pulled me into politics.

Joining the U.S. Army gave a sense of belonging and value, and stoked my desire to protect and defend my nation. It also allowed me to attend Texas A&M University and even obtain my master’s degree from the Air War College. In my 32 years, I was given many opportunities to defend our nation. I was deployed many times, from the Horn of Africa to South America, and spent half my career fighting or preparing to fight the War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan.

When I came home from serving overseas, I was asked to make great sacrifices for my country and spend a little time in Washington, DC and many places across the United States as a Research and Development executive for the Department of the Army. Whether it was enhancing

lines of communication, refining our weapons systems, bolstering our defenses, or resolving complex command and control issues, my goal was to ensure our service members had optimal support to fulfill their mission. Fortunately, my education and on-the-ground experience left me well equipped to understand where our nation might be vulnerable in the future, then guide development of the tools necessary in defense of her.

When I retired and came home, I was asked by leadership at my sons' ISD to assist on the administration selection committee and was later asked to run for office.

Service, both in the military and now as a representative, allowed me to see who I really am, and have become, at my core. I am not so much a colonel or representative as I am Scoutmaster, American soldier, and servant. I love my family and my country and work as hard as I can every day to be obedient to my Lord and Savior.

GTV: How do you see your role as a Texas Representative?

The oath of office says it perfectly, “to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution.”

A constitution sets up a government, and if that government does not protect our rights, build solid infrastructure, and provide for the common defense, the people may scrap it and start over.

As a State Representative, I listen to the people of House District 20, assess potential solutions under the  F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 4

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COVER FEATURE Rep. Wilson meeting with DPS and Texas Military Department officials at the Texas border

Next session, I will be carrying legislation to create a permanent Texas border protection force. Border protection is a federal responsibility, but the administration continues to refuse to fulfill that responsibility so Texans will step up to defend our state.

GTV: OK, so if “defend” is about protecting the nation from external threats, is “protect” focused internally? constraints of our constitution, consider second and third order effects of those solutions, then work with other legislators to make those ideas into laws.

In the face of any lingering uncertainty, I use my best judgment, drawing insight from Proverbs, the scriptural book of wisdom, and seeking God's guidance.

GTV: “Preserve, Protect, and Defend” all sound similar. How do you fulfill them as separate duties, and how do you prioritize them?

DEFENSE comes first. You can’t have a strong education system, economy, or even any part of a functional society if you are not secured from invasion and attack. A nation that can’t defend itself and its borders is not going to be a nation for long.

Texans understand this, especially in the last few years.

The Biden Administration has not just failed to secure the border, they actively dismantle our efforts to defend against an unprecedented invasion of our state across our southern border.

To defend Texas, the legislature passed SB 4, creating a state-level offense for illegal border crossing, empowering law enforcement to arrest anyone they witness crossing the border illegally, book them, and give them one chance to voluntarily return to Mexico. If they do not, it is a class B misdemeanor for the first offense, and up to a second-degree felony for repeat offenders.

We also put $6.6 billion into building the border wall, buoys, boots on the ground, and bussing illegal immigrants to sanctuary cities in other states.

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That’s exactly right. It is the duty of legislators to protect the rights of the people from government intrusion first and foremost, violence and fraud second, and to protect our most vulnerable populations from inappropriate influences and neglect.

I’ll give you a few examples of what I was given the privilege to work on.

PROTECTING TEXANS FROM GOVERNMENT Addressing the pressing issue of inflation, our focus has been steadfast on providing tangible relief, particularly through measures like property tax reforms.

TRANSFORMATIVE PROPERTY TAX REFORM began by capping how much taxes could be raised year to year, anchoring the financial future of homeowners and small businesses in predictability and stability. Next, we focused on increasing the state's share of the cost of running schools. Doing so is safeguarding more than 67,000 small businesses from heavy franchise taxes and property tax increases, which creates an environment conducive to sustainable and entrepreneurial growth.

In HEALTHCARE, our actions have been equally assertive. Importing medications from Canada was a crucial move in preserving the health and financial well-being of our citizens. This, coupled with support initiatives for new mothers and the elimination of surprise billing, ensures that healthcare is not a luxury but a preserved right, accessible and fair to all.

COVER FEATURE PROTECTING FROM VIOLENCE AND FRAUD The past session, HB 6 addressed the critical surge in fentanyl-related crimes by reclassifying possession of over 200g of fentanyl as a first-degree felony, and escalating possession of as little as one gram from a state jail felony to a second-degree felony.

PROTECTING THE VULNERABLE In 2019, parents of children suffering from PANDAS, an autoimmune condition with psychiatric manifestations, asked for help bridging the gap in awareness and treatment for their condition. HB 2783 established an advisory council that connected doctors and raised awareness, helping prevent misdiagnosis and untreated suffering.

In 2021, I authored HB 721, which fortifies support for victims of domestic violence and offers greater protection and avenues for justice.

This past 2023 session we were also able to address protections for women and children (at right).

Just like we defended Texas from external threats, the legislature worked to protect Texans from threats to our rights and liberties, our health, and our children from harm from within.

HB 900 rigorously vets the content in school libraries, ensuring age-appropriate and respectful material.

SB 12 takes a firm stance against exposing children to sexually explicit performances.

SB 14 addresses the deeply sensitive issue of prohibiting surgeries, puberty blockers, and hormone therapies that could have irreversible effects on children and helps safeguard their physical and mental well-being.

SB 129 extends the statute of limitations for child pornography offenses, providing more time for survivors to get justice.

SB 15 establishes clear boundaries in sports, maintaining fairness and safety in high school and college sports by ensuring biological gender classifications.

HB 721 fortifies support for victims of domestic violence and offers greater protection and avenues for justice.

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COVER FEATURE GTV: So, if the people are defended and protected, what does it mean to “preserve” the Constitution?

Rep. Wilson was on hand to celebrate the first Tango Flight plane built by Georgetown ISD aerospace students.

It means living up to the principles, boundaries, and ideals enshrined in our founding documents. It means serving the people, enforcing the law and contracts equally, and providing the infrastructure necessary for the state to flourish.

That infrastructure is more than just roads, power, and mail. When Texas declared independence from Mexico, the Texians cited Mexico’s failure to provide education for their children as more significant to them than the Mexican military dissolving their state legislature.

When we neglect our education infrastructure, we steal from our own future.

In my time leading DOD Research and Development (R&D) and manufacturing initiatives, I saw these effects firsthand when we were not able to get even one project done without the assistance of foreign partners. Industry just didn’t have the people with the vocational skills and training and a lot of U.S. manufacturing had been off-

shored, which is how we lose our intellectual property and compromise national security.

I believe it is crucial to equip our nation with the skills and domestic manufacturing necessary to preserve our republic. By INTEGRATING VOCATIONAL TRAINING INTO EDUCATION as early as the 7th grade, and through avenues like Career and Technical Education, trade schools, and job-oriented programs, we can build a competent workforce capable of supporting middle-class jobs.

GTV: Is there anything else you would like to say to our readers?

As I reflect on my almost 40 years of service to this nation and this state, I am filled with a profound sense of honor and gratitude.

Serving you, albeit in a different capacity now, has been a privilege I deeply cherish. Your support and trust have been the cornerstones of my journey, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to contribute further to our community's prosperity and well-being.

I want to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to serve and my commitment to continue working towards the betterment of our state and its people. The journey ahead may present new challenges, but together, with your support and engagement, I am confident that we can navigate these and build a stronger, more resilient community for all.

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DEKE G.

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY | PRECINCT 3

Integrity, Experience & Ethics

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Valerie Covey

S P OT L I G H T I N G

AS WILLIAMSON COUNTY CONTINUES TO EXPERIENCE EXPLOSIVE GROWTH – 61 PERCENT SINCE 2010 – COMMISSIONER VALERIE COVEY TOOK TIME TO DISCUSS PROJECTS AIMED AT TACKLING INCREASED TRANSPORTATION AND MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES.

Transportation, Mental Health Projects

with COMMISSIONER VALERIE COVEY ON THE MOVE During her last decade on the dais, Commissioner Covey says that “Williamson County has been very proactive in trying to address safety and mobility issues regarding transportation. We have partnered with cities, developers, and the state but have led the charge in making sure that we prepare a plan for the ultimate buildout of the county throughout our Long-Range Transportation Plan.”

Launched in 2009, the plan outlines a network of road projects throughout the county and is regularly updated based on population projections as well as current and anticipated future needs. The plan focuses heavily on collaboration with landowners and developers, Commissioner Covey says, and proposed projects are taken to voters only when the need becomes evident.

SEVERAL PROJECTS ARE IN THE PIPELINE FOR GEORGETOWN: Ronald Reagan Blvd. at SH 195 intersection improvements Ronald Reagan Blvd. expansion from FM 3405 to Sun City Blvd.

CR 245 expansion from Ronald Reagan to Williams Dr CR 255/ CR 289 realignment from CR 254 to Ronald Reagan IH-35 at SW Bypass and Inner Loop interchange improvements Leander Road expansion and realignment from SW Bypass to US 183A SE Inner Loop improvements from FM 1460 to SH 29 FM 971 expansion from Gant St. to SH 130

SCAN THE CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COUNTY'S LONGRANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN.

Sam Houston Ave continuation to SH 29 east (Corridor C) Trail extension from Berry Springs Park to Georgetown's Westside Park 

Commissioners and City Council members celebrate the groundbreaking for Corridor C - SH29 Bypass as part of the Georgetown Road Bond.

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY

WELLNESS FOCUS With Williamson County’s growth causing an uptick in behavioral health issues, the county’s Behavioral Health Task Force has been working to fill a gap in state services by starting a jail diversion program. “Jails have become mental health hospitals and don’t serve well in that capacity. One of the goals the county has had from the beginning is to divert non-violent offenders out of our jails or from even going to jail,” Commissioner Covey says.

She is the county representative on the task force, which consists of law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and local mental health authority Bluebonnet Trails Community Services.

County projects include the San Gabriel Crisis Center for adults and a youth respite center recently opened in Round Rock, both of which offer short-term mental health care. A diversion center owned by the county and run by Bluebonnet Trails allows law enforcement to admit people facing a behavioral health crisis rather than taking them to jail or a hospital ER unless medical attention is needed.

In 2023, the county also launched the Jail-Based Competency Restoration program for defendants deemed incompetent to stand trial. In the past, they would be taken to an Austin hospital to receive services but would face long wait times to receive care — sometimes up to three years. Thanks to the Jail-Based Competency Restoration program, defendants have been able to receive services through Bluebonnet Trails. “We’re seeing a turnaround of less than two months now and some really good results of having these folks regain competency so they can continue through the judicial process,” Commissioner Covey says.

These facilities and programs allow law enforcement to focus on their regular duties. “Mental health issues really do affect law enforcement. That’s why we’re trying to address them and I believe our targeted actions will make significant improvements.”

Other public safety goals include opening EMS facilities and adding paramedics, sheriff’s deputies, and stations as needed, along with increasing law enforcement salaries to reduce turnover and continue to help keep Williamson County citizens safe.

Constituents can reach out to Commissioner Covey at comm3@ wilco.org.

Commissioners promoted Child Abuse Month in April with staff from the Williamson County Children's Advocacy Center 18

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY ANIMAL ISSUES When it comes to caring and finding homes for stray animals, the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter serves the unincorporated areas of the county, as well as Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, and Hutto, and potentially soon, Georgetown. Georgetown has its own animal shelter but may join the Williamson County shelter, which is also located in Georgetown. “It would be more efficient for them, and they think so too. Instead of having two separate groups in the same town, we could combine efforts and resources and improve collaboration,” says Commissioner Covey, who is also president of the Williamson County Shelter Board.

She also serves on the Williamson County Conservation Foundation, which provides protection for endan-

gered species in the county while allowing developers to apply for a permit through the county instead of having to go through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “[Going through U.S. Fish and Wildlife] was taking a long time and an unknown amount of money and that’s why the county stepped up to provide county permits. We are currently in the process of adding species to our permit, the main one being the Salamander, so development can continue as well as protect the species.”

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WORKING FOR YOU Conservative Values • Proven Leadership • Professionalism • Integrity • Results

Conservative Budget Management

• Since 2011 has led the charge to pay voter approved debt early, saving taxpayers over $92 million in interest • Fiscally conservative using CPA skills to keep spending under control • AAA bond rating maintained saving your tax dollars

Safety

• Supported competitive compensation for law enforcement retaining highly trained personnel • Supported hiring additional law enforcement personnel • Garnered statewide recognition for the innovative jail diversion programs • Serves on the county's Behavioral Health Task Force • Spearheaded the 23-hour hold diversion center, the youth respite center, and the jail-based competency restoration program • Continues to collaborate with state and local entities to address behavioral health concerns

Conservative Leadership • Reappointed by Governor Greg Abbott to the Texas Indigent Defense Commission • Chair of the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter Board-maintaining a no-kill shelter status • Member of both the Williamson County Investment and Audit Committees • Leadership role in ensuring continued operations during COVID • President of the Williamson County Conservation Foundation • Elected president of the National Habitat Conservation Plan Coalition fighting for local control and solutions • Successful in working with congressional representatives to address endangered species issues • Leadership role in developing Wilco's Long Range Strategic Plan

“It is an honor to serve you as Williamson County Commissioner, Precinct 3, and I humbly ask for your vote and support on March 5th” Early Voting February 20 - March 1, 2024 | ELECTION DAY: Tuesday March 5, 2024 For voting information & locations, visit: www.wilcotx.gov/elections

Infrastructure Completed • DB Wood Road & SH 29 intersection improvements • Southwest Bypass from IH-35 frontage road to SH 29 • Ronald Reagan Improvements at Sun City Blvd. & Silver Spur • Westinghouse Road expansion and realignment from FM 1460 to SH 130 • CR 110 expansion from CR 107 to Westinghouse Road • CR 176/Parkside Pkwy expansion and realignment • Inner Loop & Rockride Lane Intersection Improvements • Great Oaks bridge replacement • Smyers Lane at Wyoming Springs intersection improvements • IH-35 Bridge replacement at Ronald Reagan in Jarrell

Underway • Ronald Reagan Blvd. at SH 195 intersection improvements • Ronald Reagan Blvd. expansion from FM 3405 to Sun City Blvd.

• Sam Bass Rd. expansion and realignment from FM 1431 to Wyoming Springs • CR 245 expansion from Ronald Reagan to Williams Dr • CR 255/ CR 289 realignment from CR 254 to Ronald Reagan • IH-35 at SW Bypass and Inner Loop interchange improvements • CR 314 expansion and realignment from IH-35 to east of CR 3001 • Toro Grande Blvd. extension • Florence - West Main Street improvements

ValerieCovey.com | vcoveycampaign@gmail.com

• New Hope extension from Ronald Reagan to CR 175 • Wyoming Springs extension to RM 1431 • Leander Road expansion and realignment from SW Bypass to US 183A • SE Inner Loop improvements from FM 1460 to SH 29 • FM 971 expansion from Gant St. to SH 130 • Sam Houston Ave continuation to SH 29 east (Corridor C) • Brushy Creek Regional Trail connection between Fern Bluff MUD and City of Round Rock • Trail extension from Berry Springs Park to Georgetown’s Westside Park • Connecting the Brushy Creek Regional Trail to the Wilco SW Regional Park •

Paid political ad by Valerie Covey Campaign Box TX2178627 F E•BP.O. R UA R Y2925, 2 0 2Georgetown 4

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POLITICS

ELECTION 2024 • Constable Precinct 3 PRIMARY ELECTION

EARLY VOTING

MARCH 5, 2024

FEB 20 THRU MAR 1

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CANDIDATES

GEORGETOWN VIEW ASKED CANDIDATES FOR PRECINCT 3 CONSTABLE THE SAME QUESTIONS TO ENABLE VOTERS TO REVIEW “APPLES-TO-APPLES” RESPONSES REGARDING ISSUES AND PLATFORMS. ANSWERS APPEAR IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY WERE RECEIVED.

KEVIN WILKIE has been a resident of Williamson County since 2005 when he was transferred here with TX DPS. Upon his retirement as Captain, Highway Patrol Division in 2017, he was hired as a Deputy in the PCT 3 Constable’s office where he is currently serving as a Sergeant.

Kevin is a US Army Veteran, lifelong Conservative Republican, Christ follower, and loving husband and father. He and his wife, Gigi, live in Georgetown where they are actively involved in the community, supporting local businesses and serving in their church at Celebration.

1. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO RUN FOR CONSTABLE? I was approached by the current Constable and asked if I would consider running when he decided to run for Sheriff. I currently work in the PCT3 office and have a strong desire to continue to serve the people of our community and maintain the level of service and trust that has been established and upheld by the previous and current Constable.

KEVIN WILKIE

acter the qualities of integrity, honor and selfless service.

3. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3 OFFICE DOING WELL RIGHT NOW? The way we serve the County and people of our community. We truly care about the people of our community and strive to conduct our duties in a timely and efficient manner while treating everyone with courtesy and respect.

2. WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BRING TO THE TABLE FOR THE OFFICE OF CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3? My faith as a Christian, my conservative and family values. I serve the people of our community and our staff with fairness, compassion and accountability. I have over 34 years of law enforcement experience, over 24 years of being in various supervisory and leadership positions and 4 years of active duty service in the U.S. Army. This has ingrained in my char-

4. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES IF ELECTED? To uphold the standards of service and commitment to excellence set by the previous and current Constable. To provide exceptional internal and external service to our community and other Williamson County offices.

To stay proactive in observing and responding to environmental issues and crimes. To ensure our deputies and staff are afforded the opportunities for ongoing training. To uphold the Constitution of the United States of America and the laws of the state of Texas with fairness and impartiality.

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POLITICS Wilkie, cont.

5. WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT? I am the only candidate who has worked and is currently working in the Williamson County PCT3 Constable's Office. In 2017, I was hired by Constable Kevin Stofle as a deputy and eventually promoted to my current position of Sergeant. I maintained my position after the appointment of Constable Matt Lindemann. I know the duties of our office and of the Constable first hand. I have worked with the people of PCT3, our county, our office staff, and other county officials effectively and in a positive manner since 2017. I have the knowledge and expertise to become Constable without any interruption in service to our community. I have years of leadership and supervisory experience from Trooper through Captain with the Texas DPS, the military, and my current position. I have attended numerous leadership courses and instructed leadership classes. I am a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, and obtained the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Association Trilogy award.

I earned the Texas Civil Process Service Proficiency certification, and am a member of the Texas Environmental Law Enforcement Association.

DEKE PIERCE

DEKE PIERCE is a 6th generation Texan who served in the Air Force, has more than 30 years of public service experience, and has done considerable volunteer and charity work. He has Master Corrections and Peace Officer certifications, holds a degree in Business and is a certified trainer. He retired from the Travis County Sheriff’s Office and worked at Wilco’s Precinct 1 Constable’s Office as a Sergeant. He leads by example, is firm but fair, and has a can-do attitude and desire to work closely with his team and the community as well as a solid reputation of leadership, integrity, ethics and community service. VoteDekeGPierce.com 1. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO RUN FOR CONSTABLE? I learned civil law, aspects of running a Constable’s Office, and greatly enjoyed the community aspects of the job and partnering with other agencies. I look forward to representing Precinct 3 and partnering with our community to see what we can accomplish together. As Constable, I also look forward to providing leadership and mentoring and passing on knowledge to create leaders to benefit the Precinct both now and in the future.

I look forward to these many opportunities and am motivated to be the very best Constable I can be for Precinct 3.

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Constables and look forward to collaborating with staff and working closely with the community.

2. WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BRING TO THE TABLE FOR THE OFFICE OF CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3? I bring 30+ years of public service and a collaborative and respectful approach to the position. I have Master Corrections/Peace Officer certifications, a business degree, and graduated from the Executive Leadership Institute’s FBI-LEEDA Leadership Trilogy.

I am Active Shooter Response, Security Specialist, and TCOLE Instructor certified, have 7,829 training hours and am a big proponent of sharing knowledge and continuing education. I strongly desire to serve and better the community and willingly give of my time and effort. I have a wealth of experience, value the opportunity to partner with other

All candidates have law enforcement and leadership backgrounds and at least two of us are veterans and have civil experience. Additionally, I offer a vast training, educational and certification background, and a strong desire to collaborate with others. My degree aids in handling administrative functions and I adapt quickly to changing circumstances and environments. I bring strong communication and negotiation skills to the table, have worked closely with the media, have strong problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal and stress-coping skills and provide a strong background in public safety.

I’m known as a hard-working, informed and dedicated public servant who communicates and works well with others to ensure overall successes and who gives back to the community. These qualities and my training background allows me stand out from the others.

3. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3 OFFICE DOING WELL RIGHT NOW? Precinct 3 had some difficult times the past few years with the loss of former Constable Stofle, but I firmly believe Constable Lindemann did an

POLITICS exceptional job of coming in during this trying time and offering leadership and stability to the Office. The Office is also doing a good job towards their mission through good customer service and the proper and appropriate processing of paperwork. They also host community events that I believe are well received and I would like to see continued.

4. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES IF ELECTED? I will spend time with Constable Lindemann and staff before taking office to ensure a smooth transition for both the staff and the public. By my own experience, I know the importance of them knowing their jobs are safe and them getting to know and trust me so we can share ideas and become the best we can be for the community. Once in Office, I will watch and learn, working with staff and the public to collaborate on ways to work together to ensure an efficient, productive and community-oriented Office.

BERT WITCHER BERT WITCHER has been married to his wife Renee for 35 years and is a proud father of a son and daughterin-law. A Lampasas native, he left to obtain a BA from Abilene Christian University and after returning to the family business, earned an MS in Public Administration from the University of Central Texas. Seeking a career change, he joined the Georgetown Police and has lived here since 1998. He is a graduate of the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas and licensed as a Master Peace Officer. "I humbly ask your support to be the next Constable for Precinct 3."

1. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO RUN FOR CONSTABLE? I have spent 26 years with the Georgetown Police Department, rising through the ranks to Lieutenant. Serving as your Constable is an opportunity to continue my public service in a new role, working directly for you.

2. WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BRING TO THE TABLE FOR THE OFFICE OF CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3? I bring demonstrated leadership from a law enforcement career that has been entirely centered in Williamson County where my wife and I live and where we raised our son. Twice I’ve been honored as the Georgetown Police Department Employee of the Year. Through my 26-year law enforcement career my assign-

3. IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE CONSTABLE PRECINCT 3 OFFICE DOING WELL RIGHT NOW? The Precinct 3 Office has been well led by our two previous Constables, Matthew Lindemann and Kevin Stofle.

The existing staff are a great group and I look forward to working with them.

ments have included Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Narcotics, Administration, Community Engagement, and my current role in Professional Standards. Special projects I’ve been tasked with through the years include the City of Georgetown’s Special Events Committee, City Benefits Committee, a temporary assignment to a DEA Task Force, a Williamson County Special Task Unit for Mental Health as well as other smaller working groups. I hold a Master Peace Officer license with an Instructor Proficiency Certificate and Special Investigator Certificate. I am a graduate of the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas and have a Bachelor of Arts from Abilene Christian University and a Master of Science from the University of Central Texas.

4. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES IF ELECTED? Our most pressing priority is to remain continually ready, both for our service-oriented tasks as well as our response to crises. A secondary priority for any local officeholder is to responsibly manage the demands of growth, knowing that budgets in our offices will not grow as quickly as needs.

5. WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?I want to create opportunities to bring county government out to the citizens by partnering with other offices to deliver a “citizens academy” that informs you and engages your feedback.

Some public offices and functions are not well known. The office of Constable is a good example. Many citizens don’t know what they do and don’t realize it’s an elected position.

I believe we get our best government when we’re closest to those we serve. Much of that is through an exchange of information.

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COMMUNITY

Triumph in the Skies

W

hile most people put skydiving on their bucket list and never take the literal leap, Sun City's Al Blaschke has done it three times . . . all since turning 100 years old.

Al’s story has been told and seen many times over, but coverage of his inspiring life has become a story in itself.

Born January 4, 1917, his narrative is rich with historical resilience: surviving the Spanish flu, enduring the Great Governor Abbott and Al Blaschke share a celebratory moment after landing.

by Ann Marie Kennon

AL BLASCHKE BREAKS WORLD SKYDIVING RECORD FOR THE SECOND TIME

Depression, and providing essential services during World War II by building airplane parts for Pratt & Whitney. Before moving to Sun City, he was an avid skier and even more impressive, until the onset of the pandemic, was still playing golf every Friday. Fortunately for us, Al was also vigilant in avoiding COVID so he could look forward to celebrating his 107th birthday January 4, 2024.

TAKING THE LEAP Al's time as a media darling began when fellow Sun City resident Betty Schleder (above at right) asked him, on his 97th birthday, if he would like to jump out of a plane. He replied that it was a good idea but said, “No thank you, I’ll wait until I’m 100.” His prescience prompted a close friend to comment, “While most people blessed enough to make it to 97 might reflect on accomplishments, Al was still making long range plans.”

True to his word, on January 4, 2017, Al did a tandem jump from 10,000 feet to closely tie the world's record for the oldest person to jump out of a plane.

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After a safe landing, and all smiles, Al promised he would jump again to celebrate his twin grandsons’ college graduations. Three years later, at 103 years and 181 days, he honored that promise by jumping out of a moving plane at 14,000 feet.

His jump was confirmed and verified to have broken the world record but Al admitted he was more excited to share the day with his grandsons. “That was my dream in 2017 because I never thought I’d be around this long.”

With a crowd of family and friends and a gaggle of journalists, Al attributed his longevity to his wonderful wife of 49 years, who had always helped him see the joy in everything (and also kept him hydrated).

Soon after, Betty arranged for Al to spend some time with Governor Abbott at her home. She says, "They spoke about Al's recent achievement and at the end of the interview the governor said 'I will jump with you Mr. Blaschke.' My jaw dropped and I said, 'I heard that, and you're not going to be able to back out!' "

NEW RECORD As other centenarians around the world continued to raise the bar on the oldest jump, Al and Betty decided it was time to reclaim the title. True to his word, Governor Abbott was ready to join them in the air and joked that he was honored Al would "make him famous" by allowing him to share in the moment.

After four postponements due to scheduling and some bad weather, the day finally came November 27, just over a month shy of his 107th birthday. Al was joined by his children and grandchildren, as well as Precinct 3 Constable Matt Lindemann as the official witness for Guinness.

Happily, the governor and Al both enjoyed a thrilling ride and safe landings and Al's tandem jumper reported that he sang "When You Smile" from the plane to the ground. As they shook hands, the governor told Al he looked great and said, "I"m proud of you, and proud to be jumping with you." Ever humble, and noting it was the governor's first jump, Al said, "I'm very proud of you too, this was the highlight of my jumping career."

Al's advice to anyone who might have some hesitation about similar extreme feats, "If you think you can't, you're just underestimating yourself. Everyone is more capable than they think. They just need to make the decision to try."

IMAGE CREDIT: SKYDIVE SPACELAND

GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT TEXAN THROUGH AND THROUGH

Governor Greg Abbott's skydiving adventure alongside centenarian Al Blaschke was a testament to his Texan spirit and commitment. Addressing the press before the jump, the governor said he felt all along that his odds were the same as the Longhorns going to the Big 12 Championship. As they suited up and strapped in, the two men were joined in flight by Betty Schleder and two members of the US Army National Guard.

Upon landing, Governor Abbott addressed the assembled TV and news reporters with his customary humor, saying, "My worst fears about skydiving were realized; that I would land and not be able to walk away."

He described the experience as fascinating and incomparable, emphasizing the thrill of freefall — they immediately did a roll and a few hard turns — but added, "I think my favorite part is when [you pull the chute and] you're almost at a standstill in the middle. It's peaceful and quiet."

Reflecting on his first skydiving experience, Governor Abbott compared it to his frequent travels in helicopters and planes across Texas, noting the stark difference when one is freefalling. He appreciated the guidance from his tandem instructor, who ensured his comfort throughout the jump, but he shared insights about the experience, emphasizing how overcoming initial fears can lead to exhilarating and peaceful moments.

The governor's recollections resonated with Al's philosophy and encouragement that we should all try new things, underscoring the importance of staying active and positive. Al's adventurous spirit and Governor Abbott's participation highlighted the limitless potential we all have, regardless of age or circumstances. Their shared experience served as a reminder to continually embrace life's opportunities and challenge our own self-imposed limits.

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THEN & NOW

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

GOLDEN ERA OF GEORGETOWN

Gold’s Department Store’s Legacy of Love Georgetown's Minuteman

T

om Swift’s first introduction to Gold’s Department Store after moving to Georgetown at 14 years old was finding a shirt he needed at the Square staple. “From then on, I never bought clothes anywhere else. Even when I was away for 16 years, I still didn’t buy clothes until I came back to see my family.”

During a chapter in Georgetown’s history when I-35 was still being built and the city was home to just 4,500 people, everyone shopped for necessities at Gold’s. “You could literally buy everything there, from sheets and towels to clothes and shoes,” says Julie Savage, whose first job in high school was working in Gold’s shoe department. “I probably spent most of my paychecks there on shoes.”

First established on the west side of the Square in 1936, Gold’s moved to the north side in 1949 where Diva, The Ultimate Design Studio, Black Sugar Caffe, Red Bird Mercantile, and the Visitors Center are located today. Julie’s husband and long-time Georgetown resident Joe Savage remembers how he would get frequent visits from Gold’s owner, Harry Gold, after buying the nearby Café on the Square (now Goodfolks) in the ‘90s. “He was a visiting friend every day, literally. He would come down and share his pearls of wisdom. He talked to me about entrepreneurship and the Square, and I believe no person ever spent more time or money on learning what works and what does not in marketing the Square.”

For many years, Gold’s was the anchor and heart of not just the Square but in Georgetown in general — geographically, socially, and emotionally. “The Golds were Georgetown’s minutemen. They were there when someone needed help,” Tom says. When the women’s dorm at Southwestern University caught fire in the middle of the night in the wintertime, Harry and Rebecca grabbed blankets and robes from their store and passed them out to students. “It wouldn’t have occurred to them to think of the cost. To them the university had a crisis and so the Golds were there to do what they could.”

Joe adds that it was common knowledge that when a family needed funeral clothes after an unexpected family death, Harry would take care of it and let them pay when they could. “It was a community spirit of love and compassion that’s unparalleled,” Joe says.

Legacy of Love Gold’s Department Store’s time on the Square came to an end after Harry’s death in 1996. “Gold’s was so significant that when we heard that they were going to sell it, it was heartbreaking,” Tom says. “The Golds helped create Georgetown. They gave everything they had to Georgetown. They loved the town. They weren’t just a thing in Georgetown, they were at the heart of Georgetown. Part of the reason Georgetown is so lovable is because of what the Golds created.”

IN ADDITION TO OWNING GOLD’S, HARRY SERVED ON CITY COUNCIL FOR 14 YEARS AND WAS INVOLVED IN LOCAL PHILANTHROPIC EFFORTS. “THERE’S A REASON HE HAS A BUST ON THE SQUARE. HE WASN’T JUST A POLITICAL LEADER, HE WAS A SERVANT LEADER,” TOM SAYS. 30

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EDUCATION

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Taylor Hutchison

Starstruck SU Grad Shines At NASA that inspired her to study the most distant galaxies as a graduate student at Texas A&M.

"At some point, our Milky Way galaxy started out as a baby galaxy and evolved as many different galaxies blasted into each other to become the big beautiful galaxy we see today.”

F

ascinated with the mechanics of how the world works, Taylor Hutchison was studying physics at Southwestern University when a Public Viewing Night got her hooked on astronomy.

While helping visitors look at planets and galaxies through the university’s telescope, she found herself enthralled by the cosmic display. “I remember when I saw the dome of our telescope open up. It was an exciting and awe-inspiring experience — just me and the cosmos at night.”

Today, Taylor still looks through telescopes, albeit slightly larger ones, as an astrophysicist for NASA.

FROM STARGAZING TO STAR STUDY Associate Physics Professor Mark Bottorff’s mentorship played a major role in helping her achieve that dream job, she says. He encouraged her to pursue a summer research program that gave her the chance to contribute data to science publications on supermassive black holes in nearby galaxies. It was an experience 34

F E B R UA R Y 2024

While in A&M’s astronomy Ph.D. program, she had the rare opportunity to study the cosmos through NASA’s telescope in Hawaii (above). Her research, then and now, requires the most massive telescopes, which is why she was so excited when NASA launched the James Webb Space Telescope into space in 2021. “One of the main goals for it was looking at the most distant galaxies. This telescope was meant for this science.”

Thanks to her post-doctoral fellowship at NASA, Taylor now measures the physical conditions in some of the most distant galaxies ever discovered in order to answer the question, “What were the first galaxies like?"

She adds, “For the first time, we are able to directly measure the chemical composition of the stars and nebular gas, the strength and shape of the ionizing continuum, the amount of star formation, etc. of some of the most distant galaxies in the universe. It’s wild to me that this is possible — my subfield will never be the same and it’s so exciting to see how rapidly this science is evolving.”

Her day-to-day work, though, isn’t as glamorous as some might think.

“My job is as a scientist, but we joke that we’re computer programmers because we’re constantly at our computers analyzing data. When we’re lucky a few times out of the year, we get to feel like real astronomers and look through telescopes at night at observatories.”

INSPIRING FUTURE SCIENTISTS Taylor firmly believes the service she provides to her community should be equally as important as the science she accomplishes. It’s why she created a job resource website to help others navigate the academic job cycle: tx.ag/postdocs.

Hearing how the website resource has helped others secure astronomy jobs, she says, has been as rewarding as studying the cosmos and contributing scientific research. “Helping to level the playing field when it comes to challenging things (like academic job applications) is important to me, and I’m really happy when I hear from others how much that resource has helped them in their careers.”

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10

PEOPLE YOU NEED TO KNOW

QUESTIONS

TEN QUESTIONS

3

ONE THING I TRY TO DO EVERY DAY

4

I FEEL MOST ALIVE

with KEVIN PITTS

1 2 THE BEST LEADERS SUPPORT THEIR TEAMS

by delegating and empowering. Good leaders must surround themselves with people who have strengths that match the leader’s weaknesses. The leader must then delegate appropriate duties to those team members and empower them to use their strengths.

There is a reason you put them on your team, now let them do what they do best!

I DEFINE A GREAT ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AS ONE THAT is productive and fun. I have had jobs that I dreaded to fall asleep at night because I did not want to go back. I was much less productive in those jobs and they were not fun at all. The jobs I’ve enjoyed most and been most productive in, have had an enjoyable and fun office culture that drove me to achieve maximum output.

Many of us spend more time at work than we do at home, so why not have fun while at work?

photos courtesy Kevin Pitts

is maintain my relationship with my wife and kids. I have a very busy schedule with very little free time; I am always on the go.

I have to remind myself to slow down and make sure my top priority is not ignored. At the start of each day, I create lists of the things I need to complete that day. I’ve recently started making the top item on each list read, “Maintain my relationship with my wife and kids.”

being out in nature. I love to hunt and fish but I also enjoy just observing our natural environment as God intended it. If I have a free weekend, you’ll likely find me in the country or on a river.

A lifelong Texan who has spent his entire life in Central Texas, Kevin Pitts lives in Georgetown with his wife, Meagan, and daughters, Harper, 10, and Everly, 7. He began his banking career as a teller in high school and has been working in the industry for over 20 years, currently serving as the senior vice president at Alliance Bank Central Texas, where he focuses on commercial lending. Kevin has been a Georgetown resident since 2013 and is serving his second three-year term on the City Council representing District 5, and is the current Mayor Pro Tem.

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FIVE

TEN QUESTIONS TO AVOID DISTRACTIONS I create lists of work I need to complete.

When I start to get sidetracked, I go back to the list and get back on track to complete what I set out to achieve.

I HANDLE NEGATIVITY BY

PHOTO BY RUDY XIMENEZ, COURTESY KEVIN PITTS

6

providing an alternative positive view of the situation. It’s human nature to find the negative in a situation. How many headlines have you read about the successful take-offs and landings of airplanes? How many headlines have you read about a plane crash? There is always a positive and sometimes you just need someone to help you change your perspective.

8

7

ONE THING THAT IS DIFFICULT FOR ME BUT I ENJOY is being a good husband and father. I’ve never had a more difficult job than being a husband and father. But I have also never experienced anything else that brings me such joy and fulfillment.

10

MY BEST ADVICE FOR HANDLING CHANGE IS concentrate on the positives and not the negatives. Georgetown is changing and growing; I hear complaints about it often. A friend of mine, who has lived in Georgetown since the 70s, was recently talking to me about the changes in Georgetown he has observed. He wasn’t upset about growth because when he moved to Georgetown, he had to drive to Round Rock to get groceries, Austin to go to the movies, and Georgetown’s restaurant options were meager. There were things he liked better about Georgetown when he moved here, conversely there are things he prefers about Georgetown today.

I DEFINE SUCCESS AS setting a goal and achieving that goal.

Success can be simple; don’t make it difficult!

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IN TEN YEARS I HOPE TO have more free time.

Even if I wanted to serve on City Council ten years from now, I would be termed-out and unable to serve. The result of no longer serving on council in ten years is an additional 20-40 hours a week back to my family and myself. I hope to spend that time traveling with my family, hunting and fishing, and continuing to grow in my career.

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Let Your Pet Be Our Guest!

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F E B R UA R Y 2024

SHELTER STORIES

story and photos contributed by April Peiffer

REFLECTIONS ON 2023

2023

was both challenging and rewarding for the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter. “We maintained our no-kill status, which means we saved at least 90 percent of the animals that come to the shelter.

That is an accomplishment and the challenge,” Community Programs Coordinator April Peiffer says. “Dogs have been the main focus for the year as we’ve seen an increase in animals coming in, without an increase in adoptions, which has in turn increased the number of dogs we’re caring for on a daily basis.”

Shelter Continues Lifesaving Mission

WAYS TO WAGS

She is grateful for several programs the shelter launched this year that have helped with the shelter’s overcrowding issue — Doggy Day Out and the Best Match Program.

“Doggy Day Out was launched in March and was a big success from the start. With people coming to take dogs on outings to their favorite parks, grabbing pup cups, walking around local gems like the Georgetown Square, and more.” This new program was responsible for a number of adoptions, happily, by people who came in thinking they were just going to take a dog out for the day, and others who found their match due to the valuable information gathered by these daytime fosters about the dog they took out. “The Doggy Day Out program is running strong and is a great way to support the shelter in their lifesaving efforts,” April says.

The Best Match Program is designed to highlight dogs with unique features people may be interested in when looking for a new companion, and to market those dogs to people in other areas of the United States where there are waiting lists to adopt. Rave was the program’s first success story. “He was adopted to someone in Connecticut and sent off to his new home with much fanfare (above). Reports tell us he is doing very well in his new home, and we are pleased as can be about it all!”

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SHELTER STORIES One unique adoption initiative ended up being the highlight of the year for April. As part of the Pies for Paws Challenge in November, Shelter Director Misty Valenta agreed to take a pie to the face for every dog who left the shelter during the challenge, then shared that challenge with other shelters. On December 1, she took 16 pies to the face.

SUSTAINING SUCCESS

In 2024, “We hope to continue our lifesaving mission of providing care to the lost and unwanted animals of our jurisdiction,” April says. “With the support of our local community — adopters, fosters, donors, volunteers, and partner organizations — we can continue to do this work. It’s hard and it’s sometimes tiring, but worth every moment.”

Rave, in a moment we can imagine is a time of reflection about his great new life on the east coast.

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NON-PROFIT SPOTLIGHT NON-PROFIT

FURRBABY FOOD PANTRY

Unleashing Hope for Pet Owners in Need IMAGE COURTESY OF KORRI BINDL

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

W

monly requested item. We want to help lower the number of owner surrenders at the local shelters that are due to financial hardships.”

hile volunteering at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, Korri Bindl noticed many donations could not be accepted and were thrown away, like opened bags of pet food and beds too large for staff to wash. “I had an open bag of food and thought, ‘Surely someone needs this,’ and posted it on the Georgetown Facebook page. It was just a small bag of food, but the number of messages I received... there was a need.”

Korri then created a Facebook page to post unused shelter donations and other items from the community. “My whole driveway and front yard would be filled with donations. The city didn’t like that at all so I had to shut it down.”

In December, Furrbaby Food Pantry of Georgetown moved to a space at 1603 Northwest Boulevard, which they share with John Pack Custom Pools. In its new space, the pantry can better serve pet owners in need, Korri says. “Pet food has become quite expensive and is the pantry's most com-

The pantry is open to the public and provides free cat and dog food, bowls, toys, leashes, collars, harnesses, cat litter, and a self-service dog wash station. Visitors are welcome by appointment or during pantry open hours. For information about hours of operation, follow the pantry Facebook page.

For those wanting to help, donations are always welcome, but the most pressing need is for additional volunteers who can help with anything from organizing inventory to assisting pantry visitors.

GRAND OPENING On December 30, local animal lovers gathered to celebrate Furrbaby Food Pantry’s grand opening and first official fundraiser, which garnered over $5,400 and 1,825 pounds of food, as well as a multitude of pet supplies. Various pet vendors helped make the event a success, including Texas Rescue Network, Foster 2 Forever, and senior dog rescue Living Grace Canine Ranch. “The pet donations we received and the number of guests who showed up to give their love and support was beyond our wildest dreams,” Korri says.

Hound Rescue volunteer Kim Lewis is just as passionate about Furrbaby Food Pantry and expressed her admiration 46

F E B R UA R Y 2024

for its mission. “There are times when people want to surrender a dog to us because of a financial crisis. This organization will help people keep their pets.”

Korri hopes to eventually expand the pantry’s services, not just locally but to other communities in need. “We are constantly reaching for the stars and would love to eventually help families who can’t afford emergency medical services for their pets and even help with spay, neutering, and annual shots. The Furrbaby Food Pantry has no limits when it comes to helping pets in need and keeping their bellies full.”

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BUSINESS PROFILE

COOL COLLABORATION Star Air and Bowien Heating & Air Join Forces

By Charlotte Kovalchuk

When Gary Bowien decided to retire and sell his heating and air conditioning company, he entrusted it to Barry Cryer, owner of Star Air HVAC, despite higher offers from equity trust companies. “He told me the thing that attracted him to Star Air was the agreement to take care of his customers and employees and still have that personal touch for everybody,” Barry says,

emphasizing the difference between equity trust companies and private ones. “Equity trust companies gather them, build them up, and then sell them. It’s an investment. Ours is an investment too, but we want to enhance not just our family legacy, but also our employees’ families’ legacies. It’s an investment in our family but also our employees’ families.”

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC

LEAVING A LEGACY

With Star Air’s stellar reputation in Jarrell and Bowien Heating and Air’s similar standing in Georgetown and Round Rock, Barry describes the merge as two local powerhouse air conditioning companies coming together. He adds that the integration of the companies has been a great fit and that Gary will stay on as a consultant until August to ensure a continuously smooth transition.

With Star Air doubling in size in the last year, Barry predicts the business will be on its way to tripling by the end of 2024. He hopes to continue expanding and acquiring more companies in order to provide a full range of home services, including electrical, solar, and plumbing.

Acquiring Bowien, Barry says, has allowed Star Air to gain more technicians and office personnel to provide even better service to both companies’ customer bases within a 35-mile radius. Starting this month, Bowien Heating and Star Air Home Services is offering comprehensive heating and cooling services, both residential and commercial, while maintaining its trademark customer focus.

The office’s floor mat featuring a Texas map topped with a cowboy hat and five stars underneath serves as a visual reminder of that focus, as “our goal is to earn a fivestar rating from every customer,” Barry says.

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His ultimate goal, though, is to enhance the legacy of his family as well as his community. “We’ve got to be conscientious of the footprint we’re leaving because it’s going to be here for a long time, and we need to do that with our family and our town.”

Scan the code to learn more about Bowien Heating and Star Air Home Services.

StarAirHVAC.com | info@StarAirHVAC.com 512-746-6099 103 N. Second Street, Jarrell

ASK AN EXPERT • SENIOR LIVING

TheWesleyan.org

Are You Ready To Make the Move to a Senior Living Community?

HOW DO YOU DECIDE IF YOU ARE READY? As we age, at some point we all walk the line between staying in our home or moving into a senior living community. While studies indicate the benefits of senior living include improved physical wellness, increased socialization and positive mental health, it is a tough decision with lots to consider.

YOU ARE FEELING LONELY OR SOCIALLY WITHDRAWN Loneliness can set in after losing a loved one, or when family or friends move away. Mobility issues or trouble driving can add stress — when it is difficult to leave the house. Senior living communities can help you regain social engagement through a variety of onsite events and activities, allowing you to stay socially active without having to drive. There are learning opportunities to keep your mind active, and group exercise classes to keep or get you healthier.

And you can take advantage of community-provided transportation to appointments, shopping, restaurants, and interesting locations. Socialization is the number one determining factor in how long you will live.

YOU HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT YOUR HEALTH It makes sense to think about your future health needs. You may be in good health right now or have a condition that affects your ability to stay active. Do you have a plan for a medical emergency or a fall?

Who would help you with daily living? Taking control of the “what ifs” is a gift to others, and senior living communities give you that control.

Perhaps you were a caregiver for a parent or spouse, and are worried about passing down that kind of responsibility to your children. Senior living communities usually offer many levels of care and can ensure you

There are many organizations and senior living counselors who can help you sort through the questions and details of moving to a senior living community. The decision can be daunting — but being proactive and advocating for yourself by visiting some communities, you will see firsthand the advantages and life-changing amenities that may inspire you to begin planning a future that maintains your independence.

receive the care you need in a homelike atmosphere. Exploring options now not only helps you, but your family as well when the time is right to make a move.

HOUSEHOLD CHORES & HOME MAINTENANCE ARE TAKING UP ALL YOUR TIME Do you find yourself needing to schedule appliance repairs, roof maintenance, landscapers and housekeeping, or deciding which take-out food to order? Many senior living communities offer a maintenance-free lifestyle so you can get busy living.

YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY & SECURITY Senior living communities are designed specifically for seniors, and can include home safety features such as grab bars, zero-entry thresholds for doors and bathing, slip-resistant flooring and emergency call systems to speak directly to support staff. Communities also typically have 24/7 security cameras and night watch personnel, plus a gated entrance and a sign-in desk for visitors.

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512.868.1771

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F E B R UA R Y 2024

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ASK AN EXPERT • OUTDOOR STRUCTURES

Choosing the Right Portable Building for Your Home

Chad & Amanda Moore Moore Liberty Buildings MooreLibertyBuildings.com 512-548-6474

MAXIMIZING SPACE AND FLEXIBILITY

H

ere in Georgetown, accessory structures such as a shed, carport, garage, home office, or pergola are super popular! They are a valuable addition to your home, creating space for storage, work, outdoor living, and more. But where should you begin when planning for your new structure? Following are key aspects to help you choose the right size, location, materials, and compliance.

SIZE: As the saying goes, “Go big or go home!” It is known that clients never say “Help, I need to downsize my building, it’s too big!”

But often they do say, “I bought a shed, but it’s too small.” So, number one, get as much building as you can afford and/or fit on your property for the need at hand. You will be glad you did.

LOCATION: Where to put it? Much of the answer comes down to how you are going to use it.

• Protecting vehicles? Probably on or near your driveway.

• Lawn care? In the back or side yard where it is easily accessible for your mower and other tools.

• Home Office? Put it where you have a nice view, or a particularly quiet spot on your property. Perhaps you want it just steps from your back door to create the shortest commute possible.

• Storage: Often storage units are placed farther from a house because they aren’t frequently accessed. Some use storage units to provide a screen for unsightly views, so they place it along a shared fence line.

The bottom line is that location is up to you. Think about how you will use it, how often you will need to access it and what needs to go in and out of it.

MATERIAL: There are two main choices; wood v. metal. Smaller buildings (smaller than 18'x32') are often wood framed while larger structures (20’ wide and larger) are usually steel framed due to lower material costs. Anything over 10’ tall will be metal framed. The exterior may be covered with wood, steel, stone, brick, stucco, etc. to get the look you want.

RESTRICTIONS: You will need a copy of your survey, which should be in your closing documents or from your landlord. This will show building setback lines on the front, sides, and back of your property.

Accessory structures typically must go inside these lines.

• Also check with your HOA/POA to determine what restrictions they have. Many have height and/or size restrictions. You’ll need to apply for approval from your HOA before building.

• If you are within city limits, you may need a building permit, depending on size. This can be in addition to your HOA approval.

Answer these questions and you’ll be well prepared to get the right accessory structure for your lifestyle!

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Texas Longhorns WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”? by Rachel Strickland

Bluebonnets, rodeos, and barbecue come to mind when thinking about Texas, but perhaps the most iconic symbol of the Old West is one that’s been around for centuries – longhorn cattle. Aptly named for their exceptionally long horns, which can span more than eight feet in length and provide a powerful defense, longhorns have become a cultural icon for Texas.

In 1995, longhorns were recognized as the official large state mammal.

A HISTORICAL JOURNEY Texas longhorns descended from the first cattle brought to the New World more than 500 years ago by Spanish explorers — including Christopher Columbus — and served as a food source for colonists. The cattle were then brought north to what is now Texas by early American settlers. Over time, these cattle evolved into the exceptionally well-adapted and rugged breed now known as the Texas longhorn. In the 1920s, longhorns faced extinction due to interbreeding, which diluted their bloodline, but the species was saved by wildlife enthusiasts at a refuge in Oklahoma.

Raising longhorn cattle offers significant advantages that make them the preferred breed by cattlemen and ranchers. They have 54

F E B R UA R Y 2024

adapted to the hot Texas climate thanks to their thick coats, which protect them from ultraviolet rays and are also fairly resistant to diseases and pests. They are known to be intelligent and easy to work with — they can even be trained to walk in parades or shown in livestock exhibits.

SUSTAINABLE & LOW MAINTENANCE Aside from the ease of raising them, the primary reason people keep longhorns is for their meat, which is significantly leaner than that of other cattle breeds. In fact, grass-fed Texas longhorns typically produce meat with less cholesterol than a skinless chicken breast.

WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?

Also, as a food source, longhorns are prized for their long life span and efficient reproduction. The animals live as long as 30 years and sustain healthy reproduction for more than half their lifetime, largely due to females’ ability to give birth without human intervention, which lowers labor costs for ranchers.

Austin. The university’s longhorn mascot ranks among the top 25 live sports mascots in the country, embodying the spirited cry of “Hook ‘em Horns” familiar to fans nationwide.

Yet, many may not realize that this iconic burnt orange emblem is represented by an actual longhorn born in Liberty Hill, Texas.

Both male and female longhorns have horns that vary in size and shape. Calves’ horns appear when they are about three weeks old, and never stop growing throughout the animal’s lifetime. A bull’s horns are typically straight with an upturn at the end, while a cow’s horns are often shorter with more varied shapes. As well, longhorns’ bold, colorful patterns ensure that no two longhorns look alike, and even after they have been used for meat, other parts are often used for decoration, including the hide, skull, and horns.

In 1916, a longhorn steer named Bevo was adopted by UT Austin as its live mascot, and his unique burnt orange fur inspired the school’s color scheme. Since his inauguration, there have been 15 Bevos to date, and Bevo XIII, XIV, and XV were all born and raised in Liberty Hill at Sunrise Ranch, owned by Betty and John Baker.

BEYOND THE BEEF Longhorns symbolize more than just a source of beef in Texas culture. They are also deeply entrenched in the sporting community, particularly with the University of Texas at

Bevo XV's half-brother and paddock-mate, Two-Spot

Over the centuries, longhorns have earned their celebrity status in the state of Texas, not only for the sustenance they supply, but for what they represent — tenacity, adaptability, and individuality, all of which are attributes of a true Texan.

Sunrise Spur, famously known as Bevo XV, and the UT Silver Spurs marching with pride at the 2024 Sugar Bowl parade in New Orleans.

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN AND BETTY BAKER

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WORTH THE DRIVE

by Ann Marie Kennon

The Heart of Texas Play Tourist at the Texas State Capitol

N

estled in downtown Austin, the State Capitol stands as a hub of political activity, but is also a bucket list destination for residents seeking a blended glimpse of history, architecture, and Texan pride. It’s a destination where every visitor can find something to admire and learn, making it a must-see landmark in the Lone Star State.

Completed in 1888, the capitol building is a unique Italian renaissance masterpiece in red granite. The building's interior is equally impressive, with ornate detailing and rich history in every corner plus close-up views of its elegant and timeless classical dome (photo above).

WHAT TO DO Visitors can explore the Exhibition Hall and various portraits that chronicle the rich tapestry of Texas' history.

From the days of the Republic to the present, the building exists as a living museum, offering fun and educational insights (including school field trips) into the state’s political, social, and cultural evolution.

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A unique feature of the Capitol is its whispering gallery. Under the great dome, visitors can experience an acoustic delight where even the faintest whisper can be heard clearly across the space.

Outside, the Capitol is surrounded by 22 acres of beautiful landscape, with points of interest and monuments that commemorate significant people and events in Texas history. Or, if you are simply in the mood to enjoy nature, the grounds offer a peaceful respite amid the hustle of the surrounding city.

TEXAS IN ACTION The Capitol also offers visitors a front row seat to observe legislative sessions and see representatives discuss and debate. The public is invited to watch the Texas House of Representatives and Senate when they are in session at the Texas State Capitol.

The Texas Legislature meets in regular session on the second Tuesday in January of every odd-numbered year. These sessions can last up to 140 days. Additionally, the governor can call special sessions as necessary, which typically last for 30 days.

STANDING TALLER THAN THE U.S. CAPITOL, THE TEXAS CAPITOL IS A PROUD TESTAMENT TO TEXAS’ GRANDEUR.

WORTH THE DRIVE WHEN YOU GO The Capitol Visitor Center offers free guided tours Monday through Friday between 9:30am to 3:30pm and weekends from 12:30 to 3:30pm.

Visitors may also take self-guided tours of the Capitol and grounds every day. Complimentary brochures — with insights and directions to help individuals and groups enjoy the Capitol at their own pace — are available for pickup at the north entrance of the Capitol or at the Capitol Information and Guide Services Office in Room 1S.2.

Scan the code to visit the State Preservation Board website for official information about tours, events, and announcements.

As a bonus, the Capitol building is conveniently located near other tourist attractions: museums, parks, and a bustling culinary scene so it is an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

Texas State Cemetery: Solemn and Historic Just a stone's throw away from the Capitol lies the Texas State Cemetery, a place of serenity and deep significance. Its hallowed grounds are the place of eternal rest for many distinguished Texans.

A visit to the cemetery is another must if you're interested in Texas history and a poignant reminder of the heroes and helpers who contributed to the state's rich heritage.

As the final resting place of governors, senators, and other notable figures in Texas history, from Stephen F. Austin, known as the "Father of Texas," to legendary Army Sniper Chris Kyle, touring the cemetery is like a walk through a history book.

WHEN YOU GO For those seeking a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available. Each provides commentary and details about the history of the cemetery and the stories of those who rest there, offering a more comprehensive understanding of Texas' heritage.

The Texas State Cemetery is not only a historical site but also a reflection of the state's cultural and political diversity. It honors people from various backgrounds and walks of life, each contributing uniquely to the fabric of Texas history.

The cemetery also serves as an educational site, with monuments and markers that provide insights and pay homage to significant events and people, including Medal of Honor recipients, veterans of the Texas Revolution, American Civil War, and other conflicts. It's a place where history comes alive, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Texas' past.

As you reflect on the lives of some of those who shaped the Lone Star state, be sure to appreciate the carefully landscaped grounds. Between the markers and monuments, the cemetery also provides also tranquil oasis of well-kept paths, lined with trees and benches, creating a peaceful environment for reflection and respect.

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FOOD

Mulligan's Chocolate Kahlúa Mousse Pie

CRUST

• 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs • 2 tbsp brown sugar • 1/3 cup melted butter Combine crumbs, butter, and sugar. Press into 9-1/2" pie plate.

Bake at 350° for 8 minutes. Let cool.

FILLING

• 2/3 cup chocolate chips

• 1/3 cup milk

• 1/3 cup cream cheese

• 8 tsp regular sugar

• 4 tsp Kahlúa

• 8 tsp powdered sugar

• 1-1/3 cups whipped cream Whip cream with powered sugar and place in fridge. Whip cream cheese with sugar to combine.

Heat milk on stove until hot but not boiling. Add chocolate chips and whisk until melted.

Add Kahlúa and mix together, then add cream cheese mix and whip for 2 minutes.

Scrape the bowl, making sure all ingredients are mixed. Add whipped cream from refrigerator until everything is combined.

Fill pie shells with mixture and cool in fridge at least 4 hours.

Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

N

ow in its sixth year, Mulligan's has an outstanding director of operations, Mario Tablas, whose sole focus is creating an enjoyable dining experience.

In the kitchen, Executive Chef Rufino Valverde's secret recipes are as big an attraction as the new Garden Model Railroad recently installed behind the restaurant. The train and garden have been delighting newcomers (and children!) who come out to enjoy a meal.

Diners may choose from myriad favorites and signature dishes: lasagna, fried and grilled shrimp, eggs Benedict, and various soups, plus a variety of homemade pies, including the chef's preparation of the mousse pie above.

Plus, if you want to enjoy a feast at your home or special event — including weddings — they can tailor a catering menu for just about any occasion, in or outside of Sun City for up to 400 guests.

Management are also very community minded and support many local programs, including Meals on Wheels, The Rotary, The Georgetown Animal Shelter, Harley’s Angels Animal Sanctuary, and Blue Santa.

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While open to the general public, Mulligan's is the go-to place for Sun City residents who can drive over in their golf carts to have a meal or a drink on the patio or at the bar without leaving Sun City premises.

150 Dove Hollow Trail • Georgetown, TX 78633 512-688-5188 BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 7am – 8pm Monday thru Saturday 7am – 6pm Sunday

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POPPY TALKS

Poppy Hacks E

veryone loves a good life hack and Poppy is no exception. But you know she is always going to have something to add.

The first one is something I wish I might have shared before Winter Storm Heather made an appearance.

While totally appropriate to name a vicious cold snap after the original 1980s mean girls, I found this one quite timely. If your power goes out and you want to know if it's just your house or the whole neighborhood, open your phone settings and search for wi-fi networks. If your house is like mine, there are always at least a half dozen signals in range so if there are none listed, you know it's not just a blown fuse and it's time to start grousing about frozen windmills.

I don't usually talk about the environment but I have been really good about using tote bags for my food shopping since I found out compostable plastic bags buried in soil for three years can still hold a full load of groceries. So it looks like despite our best efforts to recycle, the only thing we've really mastered is making landfills look more colorful.

You might have thought toothbrush covers were a silly first-world solution but then I found out that within eight seconds of flushing, a toilet bowl can shoot a plume of aerosols nearly five feet into the air. Turns out I wasn't so crazy wanting a house with a separate water closet in the primary bathroom!

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While I'm thinking about ablutions, I find it interesting that most beauty products don’t really vary much, and they’re apparently inexpensive to make. In fact, companies typically spend more money on packaging and marketing than making the product itself. Looks like my being cheap about $100 capsules of eye cream vs. my giant Costco bottle of Suave wasn't crazy either.

A pill may be easier to swallow if you turn your head as it goes down.

There are a lot of physiological processes that make that happen but I am old and take a dozen pills a day so don't really care why it works as long as I don't have to feel like an ostrich swallowing a stone.

If you're somewhere between trying to keep your New Year's resolution to clean more and your annual spring cleaning, the International OCD Foundation created a nine-step photo scale of household clutter to help you diagnose your habits. The QR code will help you determine where you fit. Level 3 is standard household clutter or, as I would say, "Living with kids and dogs." Scoring at Level 7 poses significant safeguarding issues, also akin to "Ready for an episode of 'Hoarders'."

If you want a question answered on the Internet, post a wrong answer first. You may have to spend a few hours suffering the slings and arrows of outrageous

trolling but, in 2024, crowd sourcing information can be fun. No matter what weird question, health TMI, or psychological mishaps I search, there's always an answer. No matter how obscure I think I'm being I know whatever it is I'm worrying about, it's never just me with the problem.

If you know about revenge sleep procrastination — where you put off sleep at night to allow yourself time to enjoy leisure activity you couldn't get to during the day, you might be happy to know research shows short afternoon naps at the workplace lead to significant increases in productivity, psychological well-being, and cognition. And an extra 30 minutes sleep at night shows no similar improvements so make sure to tell your boss you're asleep because... Science.

And finally, I think I mentioned I'm cheap so I'm recommending my new find, WebstaurantStore.com, to purchase A. Ny. Thing. for your kitchen.

Those $8.99 tongs at a box store are about $2. A 12-pack of 16 oz. mason jar glasses are under $10. They even have fancy butcher blocks so you don't have to pay [InsertNameHere]-fest booth prices. And so on.

Enjoy some savvy shopping!

So just a fun mix of weird ideas and I'm glad that the real life hack is your patience, dear Reader, for getting through yet another article about life hacks.

Bonus trivia: I was today years old when I found out Rocky Balboa's given name is Robert.

Susan’s Nail Salon

Walk-Ins Always Welcome!

4106 Williams Dr Suite 102 • Georgetown Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm • Sunday: Closed

512-820-7696

our menu at viewJIMMYVEGAS.BIZ

Specializing in Smokehouse Cuisine Tues - Sat | 11am - 8pm (512) 240-4093

408 West University Georgetown, TX

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BUSINESS BRIEFS FROM A REVAMPED MOVIE THEATER AND ORGANIC GROCERY STORE TO SEVERAL NEW COFFEE SHOPS, A VARIETY OF BUSINESSES HAVE OPENED OR WILL SOON OPEN THEIR DOORS IN GEORGETOWN THIS YEAR. DUTCH BROS COFFEE

FILM ALLEY Film Alley, formerly known as City Lights Theater, had its grand reopening in January.

The revamped entertainment center features the latest movies plus an arcade, bowling, ax throwing, and scratch kitchen menu from 5S Rock Bar and Restaurant.

SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET The organic grocery store chain is anticipated to open a 23,000-square-foot location in late 2024 at the northwest corner of Williams Drive and Cedar Lake Boulevard.

SEVEN OAKS COFFEE Established in 2022 with the goal of “bringing unique flavor profiles and old standards to the coffee market,” Seven Oaks Coffee will open a drive-thru coffee shop this summer at the southwest corner of FM 1460 and Westinghouse Road. The brand currently sells coffee online and from a mobile truck.

SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE: ∙ Oil Change and Lube State Inspections ∙ A/C Servicing Full Brake Service ∙ Wheel Alignment Cooling System Flush & more...

The coffee chain plans to open a second drive-thru location in Georgetown this summer at the corner of Westinghouse Road and FM 1460. Dutch Bros serves specialty coffees, smoothies, freezes, teas, an exclusive Dutch Bros energy drink, and nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee.

BLINK BOUTIQUE EYECARE + EYEWEAR Blink Boutique Eyecare + Eyewear is set to open by the end of February just off the Square on the first floor of the Block 27 building. Blink will offer comprehensive eye exams, dry eye treatment, eye disease management, eye emergency services, and more.

CITIZEN HOUSE WOLF RANCH The new apartment community features one- and two-bedroom apartments off Highway 29 just west of the Southwest Bypass. Residents can enjoy community amenities such as a dog park, fitness center, lounge, pool, and playground.

Your vehicle can be repaired for as little as

$39 down with 100 days same as cash!

Ask for details!

We have a new address Come see the new shop! service@genesautorepair.net

7101 Ranch Rd. 2338 • Georgetown • 512.688.5190 • genesautorepair.net 64

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