FYI 2023

fy i 2023 . . .

Pickleball is popping in East Wilco

Your guide to East Williamson County

Murphy Park has extensive history in Taylor

Calendar of Events

Plenty of things to do in East WilCo!

Susan Faykus, CFCH

WELCOME TO THE AREA

Now that you’ve found one of the nicest places in Texas to call home, you might need some help getting settled. By the way, in this rapidly growing Austin area, callers must dial all 10 digits of phone numbers. If you forget, you’ll hear a recording that the call won’t go through.

FINDING A HOME

If you’re looking for a place to live, there a re several real estate agencies serving both Taylor and the surrounding areas.

• Brasfield Real Estate

512-365-6500

202 N. Main. St. www.brasfieldrealestate.com

• Cornerstone Real Estate, Inc.

512-365-9548

105 W. Fourth St. www.cornerstone-realestate.com

• Patschke and Patschke Real Estate LLC

512-365-1905

Relocated to Coupland

• RE/MAX Associates Group

512-365-8563

906 N. Main

https://www.remaxtaylor.net/

• Tierra Grande Real Estate Team

512-489-9885

421 N. Main St., Suite A

https://tierragranderealestate.com/

LOOKING TO BUILD A HOME?

• DR Horton Homes 512-598-6670, ht tps://www.drhorton.com/

• Nanco Homes 512-365-1979, https:// nancohomesinc.com/

If you’re not quite ready for a house yet, there are several apartment complexes, including:

• Main Street Commons 3700 N. Main www.apartmentsintaylortx.com

512-352-6068

• Arbors of Taylor 201 Highland Dr. www.thearborsoftaylor.com

512-365-8571

• Burnett Place 405 Sloan St. 512-365-2500

• Mallard Run Apartments 1000 Mallard Lane 512-352-8660

• Taylor Square Apartments

1005 Cotton Bowl Dr. 512-352-8753

www.hamiltonvalley.com

• Tejas Apartments

2106 Holly Springs Dr. 512-365-6400

After your move, you may need to return your U-Haul. We have two local U-Haul affiliates:

• Right Space Storage 4105 W. 2nd St. 512-883-6142

• P uger Uhaul/Tire 209 W. 2nd St. 512-352-2310

You also can rent atbed trailers and moving equipment:

• Ewald Kubota

3701 E. Fourth St. 512-352-5548

• Main Street Rental, 1811 N. Main St. 512-352-7368

ELECTRICITY

In Eastern Williamson County, consumers have a choice of several utility providers that offer a number of different plans and rates. For a list of providers, visit www.powertochoose.org. The Power to Choose website provides a list of providers, the plans they offer in the area, current rates per kilowatt hour and contact information. Call 1-866-7974839 for more.

While the power may come from different sources, transmission lines are managed by Oncor Electric Delivery. If you have a power interruption due to something other than a billing issue, call 1-888-313-4747.

WATER & SEWER

In Taylor, call the City of Taylor Utility Department, 512-352-2066. For Hutto, contact Jonah Water located on 4050 FM 1660, 512-759-1286. For many surrounding cities, a call to

UTILITIES

city hall also will get water and sewer service started: Granger – 512-859-2755, 214 E. Davilla St., https://grangertx.us/ Thrall – 512-898-5306, 104 N. Main St., http://cityofthrall.com/ Coupland – 512-557-8159, PO Box 581, https://cityofcouplandtx.us/index.html or contact Manville Water Supply Corporation at 512-856-2488.

NATURAL GAS

Atmos Energy is the natural gas provider in this area.

Customer service number: 1-888-2866700.

RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING

 HUTTO

Contact the Utility Billing Division at city of Hutto to establish your garbage collection service, 512-759-4055. Al Clawson Disposal System is the service

provider for the Hutto.

RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING

 TAYLOR

To establish garbage collection in Taylor, contact the Utility and Billing Department, 512-352-2066. Or contact Waste Connections to set up services including weekly trash pickup, twice-monthly recycling pickup and bulky waste pickup, such as brush, debris and old appliances. For more, call 512-251-5622.

OTHER RECYCLING

The Williamson County Recycling Center is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, 101 Landfi ll Rd., Hutto. They accept newspapers, magazines, aluminum cans, tin cans, glass and cardboard. They do not accept plastic bags, light bulbs, broken glass or hazardous waste.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY LEADERSHIP

Williamson County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country. Located in Central Texas just north of the state capital in Austin, Williamson County is gaining its reputation of being an exceptional place to live. Physically, the eastern part of the county is level black land soil, and the western part is rolling limestone hills, all drained by the San Gabriel River and tributaries. The county has a lively history including

Comanche’s, outlaws, Texas Rangers, the Chisholm Trail, cowboys and pioneers. Today, the county is a center for agribusiness, education and high-tech industry.

Williamson County is blessed with a mild climate offering more than 300 sunny days each year, affordable living, good schools, clean air, scenic open spaces and an abundance of recreational opportunities. The county is well known

for a very low crime rate and friendly, neighborly people. Unlike most states, Texas has no state personal income tax. All these reasons make Williamson County a desirable place to live and work in the United States.

The county was organized in 1848 and named after Robert M. Williamson, a pioneer leader and veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto.

TERRY COOK

Commissioner Pct. 1

1801 East Old Settlers Blvd.

Suite #110

Round Rock, TX 78664

Phone: 512-244-8610

Email: commissioner1@ wilco.org

CYNTHIA LONG

Commissioner Pct. 2

350 Discovery Blvd., Suite 201

Cedar Park, TX 78613

Phone: 512-260-4280

Email: clong@ wilco.org

VALERIE COVEY

Commissioner Pct. 3

Georgetown Annex 100 Wilco Way, CO201

Georgetown, TX, 78626

Phone: 512-943-3370

Email: comm3@ wilco.org

RUSS BOLES

Commissioner Pct. 4

3001 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Unit 1300

Hutto, Texas 78634

Phone: 512-943-3761

Email: russ.boles@ wilco.org

BILL GRAVELL JR. County Judge

Williamson County Historic Courthouse

710 S. Main Street, Ste. 101 Georgetown, TX 78626

Phone: 512-943-1550

Fax: 512-943-1662

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

Mike Gleason

Williamson County, Texas

508 S. Rock St.

Georgetown, Tx 78626

512-943-1300

Non-Emergency: 512-864-8282

Fax: 512-943-1444

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ATTORNEY

Dee Hobbs

Williamson County Justice Center County Attorney’s Office

405 MLK, Suite 229

Georgetown, Texas 78626

512-943-1111

Fax: 512-943-1120

Office Hours:

8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday – Friday

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 4

Judge Rhonda Redden

211 W. Sixth St.

Taylor, Texas 76574

512-352-4155

Fax: 512-352-4194

Juror Information Line: 512-525-8688

Of

9 a.m. – 5

Monday – Friday

WILLIAMSON COUNTY CONSTABLE PRECINCT 4

Paul Leal

412 Vance Street, Suite 3

Taylor, Texas 76574

512-352-4181

Fax: 512-352-4186

Constable Paul Leal: paul.leal@wilco.org

Chief Deputy Brian Olson: brian.olson@wilco.org

Lieutenant Mike Pendley: mpendley@wilco.org

City of Taylor

The city of Taylor has an elected city council that is comprised of five council members, four of whom are elected from single member districts and one member elected at-large.

Council members elect a Mayor and a Mayor Pro-Tem every year after the election. Taylor is a home-rule city, meaning the council can enact legislation, adopt budgets and determine policies subject only to limitations imposed by the State constitution and the city charter.

MEETINGS

Council meetings are held at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month in the council chambers at city hall, 400 Porter St. Visit the city’s video page to watch council and other city meetings live or view them later. Special meetings are called as needed and are posted on this website and at city hall 72 hours prior to the meeting date and time.

CITY COUNCIL

District 1: Gerald Anderson, Mayor Pro Tem, Gerald.anderson@taylortx.gov

District 2: Mitchell Drummond mitchell.drummond@taylortx.gov

District 3: Brandt Rydell

Mayor, brandt.rydell@taylortx.gov

District 4: Robert Garcia robert.garcia@taylortx.gov

At Large: Dwayne Ariola dwayne.ariola@taylortx.gov

CITY HALL

Address: 400 Porter St., Taylor

Phone: 512-352-3675

Fax: 512-352-8483

http://www.taylortx.gov/

Facebook: Taylor, Texas - Municipal Government

CITY ADMINISTRATION

•Brian LaBorde, City Manager, 512-352-3677, brian.laborde@taylortx.gov

•Jeffery Jenkins, Deputy City Manager, 512-352-6475, jeffery.jenkins@taylortx.gov

•Tom Yantis, Assistant City Manager, 512-365-3863, tom.yantis@taylortx.gov

•Rocio Lopez, Executive Assistant, 512-352-3774, Rocio.lopez@taylortx.gov

OTHER DEPARTMENTS

LOCATED AT CITY HALL

•Mark Schroeder, City Attorney, mark.schroeder@taylortx.gov

•Ted Hejl, 512-352-3675, ted@hejllawfirm.com

•Jim Gray, Public Works Director, 512-352-5818, jim.gray@taylortx.gov

•Diana McLean, City Clerk, 512-352-3676, diana.mclean@taylortx.gov

•Jan Harris, Main Street Manager, 512-352-3463, jan.harris@taylortx.gov

•Kendra Maness, Public Information Officer, 512-352-5448, kendra.maness@taylortx.gov

•Stacy Osborn, Communications Director, 512-365-9310, stacy.osborn@taylortx.gov

•Jeffery Wood, Chief Financial Officer, 512-309-6168, jeffery.wood@taylortx.gov

•LaShon Gros, Human Resources, 512-309-6165, lashon.gros@taylortx.gov

•Chris Silva-Gonzales, Human Resources Coordinator, 512-352-5993, silva-gonzales@taylor.tx.gov

•Brenda Joyas, Senior Planner, 512-309-6797, brenda.joyas@taylortx.gov

•Omar Lopez, Development Services and Code Enforcement Officer, 512-309-6171, omar.lopez@taylortx.gov

•Nicole Luna, Manager, 512-352-2066, nicole.luna@taylortx.gov

Online payments: www.taylortx.gov

CITY DEPARTMENTS

LOCATED OFFSITE

City of Taylor Utility Billing

1201 N. Main St. 512-352-2066

City of Taylor Utility Maintenance

1201 N. Main St. 512-352-3251

Taylor Parks Department 1412 Davis St.

•Tyler Bybee, Director, 512-309-6266 ext.1251, tyler.bybee@taylortx.gov

•Betsy Schulz, Superintendent, 512-309-6266 ext. 1250, betsy.schulz@taylortx.gov

•Ian Davis, Programs Director, 512-309-6266 ext.1258, ian.davis@taylortx.gov

•Lisa Buzan, Administrative Assistant, 512-309-6266 ext.1252, lisa.buzan@taylortx.gov

Taylor City Municipal Court 109 W. Fifth St.

•Randall J. Pick, Judge

•Mark Schroeder, Prosecutor Court is being held virtually every other Thursday until August with sign-in beginning at 8 a.m. and court beginning about 9:30 a.m. with cases heard on a first come first-served basis.

Taylor Public Library

•Karen Ellis, Director, 512-3523434, karen.ellis@taylortx.gov http://www.ci.taylor.tx.us/25/

Library Hours: Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Taylor Police Department 500 S. Main St.

Non-Emergency: 512-352-5551

http://www.ci.taylor.tx.us

/28/Police

•Henry Fluck, Chief of Police, henry. uck@taylortx.gov

If you have an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

Taylor Fire Department

•Main Station, 512-352-6992, 304 E. Third St.

•Northwest Station, 512-352-5232, 705 NW Carlos G. Parker Blvd.

https://www.ci.taylor.tx.us

/1031/Fire

•Daniel Baum, Management Coordinator, daniel.baum@taylortx.gov

•Robert Copeland, Assistant Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, robert.copeland@taylortx.gov

•Michele Vrabel, Administrative Assistant, michele.vrabel@taylortx.gov

Taylor City Animal Shelter 701 E. Fourth St. 512-352-5483

For animal control: 512-352-5551

•Sandy Perio, Animal Control Supervisor, sandy.perio@taylortx.gov

•Kaitlyn Billings, Animal Control Officer, kaitlyn.billings@taylortx.gov https://www.ci.taylor.tx.us /404/Animal-Control

TAYLOR MUNICIPAL AIRPORT

303 Airport Rd. 512-352-5747

For immediate assistance: 512-516-2735

•Stacey Batch, Airport Manager, stacey.batch@taylortx.gov

http://www.ci.taylor.tx.us

/514/Airport

Taylor Municipal Airport is located on Highway 79 west of downtown Taylor. The Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division has classified the airport as a general utility business service airport.

PARKS AND RECREATION

TAYLOR PARKS

The Taylor park system includes seven parks and open space areas encompassing more than 300 acres. All parks in the city’s park system have free Wi-Fi. Contact Taylor Parks and Recreation at 512309-6266 or visit https://www.ci.taylor. tx.us/27/Parks-Recreation.

POOLS

The city of Taylor offers a pool and two splash pads for residents and area visitors to enjoy. There are no public lockers at the pool. For more, visit https://www.ci.taylor.tx.us/746/ Swimming-Pool-Splash-Pads.

The pool is:

The Doris Roznovak Park Aquatic Center 1600 Sycamore St.

There is a designated lap lane at this city pool, open during regular hours.

Regular Hours: Memorial Day, May 31 through Labor Day, Sept. 4.

Monday – Closed

Tuesday – Saturday noon to 8 p.m. Sunday 1 to 8 p.m.

Pool is open only on weekends starting Aug. 14.

Pool closes for the season Sept. 4.

Pool Admission Fees

Children under age 3: Free admission Children ages 4 to 12: $2 each Adults and Children over age 12: $3 each

Seniors (age 60+): $2 each

Family Pass (30 Admissions) = $45

Family Pass (60 Admissions) = $90

Pool passes can be purchased at the pool.

Heritage park: 1/4 capacity 10-8

Fannie Robinson Park Splash Pad

206 S. Dolan St.

The Splash Pad is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Rules are:

•No pets allowed, except for service animals.

•All children must have adult supervision at all times.

•Children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper covered by a bathing suit at all times.

•Changing a baby’s diaper within 6 feet of the splash pad is prohibited.

•Running, rough play or climbing on splash pad features is prohibited.

•Do not drink the water as it is chlorinated more than drinking water.

•No food, beverages, gum, candy or glass containers are allowed on or near the splash pad.

•At the first sign of thunder or lightning, please vacate the splash pad and seek shelter. Remain in the shelter until at least 30 minutes after the last sight of thunder or lightning.

•The City of Taylor reserves the right to remove a participant or spectator from the splash pad area for violating any of the above rules.

•To activate the water, locate the black button labeled “Get Wet” on the ground near the splash pad and touch with a bare hand or foot. Water will not ow before or after the splash pad’s open hours.

RECREATION FACILITIES

• Bull Branch Park

Located in northwest Taylor, 904 Dellinger Dr.

Bull Branch Park has a large stocked fishing pond and a pavilion for public use. It also has a playscape, disc golf course and a section of the city’s seven-mile hike and bike trail.

• Fannie Robinson Park

Located in southeast Taylor, 206 S. Dolan St.

Robinson Park has a splash pad, a softball field, playscape, basketball courts, walking trails, picnic areas and a large pavilion for public rental.

• Heritage Square

Located at US 79 and Main St., 400 N. Main St.

Heritage Square includes a Memorial Garden, an amphitheater, a pavilion and a splash pad.

• Murphy Park

Located near the intersection of Hwy 95 and Lake Drive in central Taylor, 1600 Veterans Dr.

Murphy Park encompasses about 120 acres including a lake for fishing, a bandstand, a large pavilion for public events, children’s

playgrounds, picnic tables, lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, a football field, baseball fields, sand volleyball courts and the Doris Roznovak Aquatic Center.

• Pierce Park: Skateboard Park

Adjacent to Heritage Square at Third and Porter St., 326 Porter St. Pierce Park includes 14,000 square feet of smooth surfaces and shaded areas. Suitable for skateboards or BMX bikes.

• Taylor Regional Park and Sports Complex

Located on Carlos G. Parker Boulevard in north Taylor, 210 Carlos G Parker Blvd. NW. Taylor Regional Park is a 75-acre park that serves as an athletic complex for the area and includes 10 lighted tournament quality ball fields complete with wireless scoreboards, shaded stadium style bleachers, moveable pitching mounds and base paths with three concession stands, restrooms and parking for 650 vehicles. The fully lit park includes additional athletic fields and amenities, including a full-size football field, two soccer fields, two basketball courts, a covered pavilion, two modern playscapes and a hike and bike trail. The park also features an innovative nature conservation project and a six-acre lake that is perfect for outdoor education.

PicKlebalL

is popPinG is popPinG in EasT WilCo

BY SUSAN YERKS

Pop, pop, pop, pop … “Ha!”

“Good shot!” Pop, pop, pop…

That’s the sound of pickleball. The game with the goofy name is the fastestgrowing sport in the nation and quickly netting droves of fans in East Wilco.

Don’t be fooled by the whimsical moniker – derived from the random crew members of a pickle boat, according to Joan Pritchard, whose husband, Washington state U.S. Rep. Joel Pritchard, invented the game.

Back then, in 1965, it was a fun, family thing grandparents could play with the grandkids.

Pickleball is not your grandma’s game anymore. During the pandemic, the sport’s popularity exploded. By 2021, nearly 5 million Americans were playing pickleball, according to a report by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. Some analysts project as many as 40 million players worldwide by 2030.

It’s still a hot sport for seniors, but the average age of players has dropped to the mid-30s, and the levels of play are much

more challenging. Major League Pickleball has attracted big bucks from athlete high rollers including Tom Brady and LeBron James.

Some advocates are hoping to see pickleball in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

The game is picking up steam in East Wilco, too. The Sun City Pickleball Club has nearly 1,000 members, and the Georgetown Pickleball Association has 400. Folks are whacking pickleballs in Hutto, Taylor, Thrall and beyond.

“There’s a huge demand,” said Lonnie Trammell, who founded the Georgetown Pickleball Association with his wife, Jo. Both are now certified pickleball trainers, with a website headlined “Love at First Hit.”

“The Georgetown Tennis Center originally marked off four pickleball courts for us. Within a month, we quadrupled the volume of the center’s business,” Lonnie Trammell said.

There are more courts at local parks and other places around town.

“As word gets out to smaller communities, we’re seeing a lot of rural interest, too. Currently, most of them have to travel to play, but they’re looking to get pickleball closer to home,” he said. “Taylor is an example of an area where there was some interest, but it took ‘Hat’ to really say, ‘I need to push this’ and get things done.”

‘Hat’ is what everybody calls Larry Cmerek. A retiree and former avid tennis player, he’s now a certified pickleball trainer. He’s an official ambassador for USA Pickleball, the sport’s national governing body. As a member of the Taylor Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, he has worked for years to get pickleball courts at the Tennis Center in Murphy Park, bringing other fans of the game together to organize fun events and fundraisers to help the city support the ongoing project.

Pickleball is not a fad. It’s just gonna keep growing.”

- LARRY “HAT” CMEREK, PICKLEBALL TRAINER AND TAYLOR PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

“Pickleball is not a fad. It’s just gonna keep growing,” Cmerek said. “Sun City has eight pickleball courts. The Georgetown Tennis Center has 26 courts you can play pickleball on. That gives you the scope of the number of people that are playing.”

He added, “It’s gotten so crazy… I’m playing with 30- and 40-year-olds during the day, doctors or professors or psychologists – they play in the morning. And they’re on their phones doing their work.”

On a recent spring evening, Cmerek and the Trammells met at Murphy Park with a mission: to give some new neighbors from Samsung Austin Semiconductor their first taste of the pickle.

The tech giant is building a multibilliondollar chip foundry in Taylor that will employ thousands when operational.

Samsung employees Lori Blandin, Toni Garza, Daniel Kim and James An all had heard about pickleball, but none of them had ever played. Kim enjoyed racquet sports, but not pickleball.

He said that when he was working in another city, he played tennis with a friend who had become a pickleball champion, so the game interested him. An had played pingpong, but this was his first foray into pickleball. Garza kept hearing about pickleball and thought it might be a fun way to get some exercise, she said.

“We’ve seen pickleball trending, and we’re always looking for things to do for fun, and somebody threw this idea out,” Blandin said. So she reached out to Cmerek, and invited some co-workers to join her.

Cmerek asked the Trammels to come in from Georgetown to help give the “Samsungians” a super-charged introduction to the game.

Cmerek, who refers to himself as a “picklebum,” outlined the main rules with infectious high spirits and the occasional assist from one of the Trammels: Where the “kitchen” is; what “dinking” means; where to stand when you serve; how to keep score; the novolley zone; the two-bounce rule; and, most important

Jo Trammell (second from left) and Cmerek demonstrate pickleball ‘dinking’ as Daniel Kim (far left) and Lori Blandin (far right) look on;

Photo by Susan Yerkes

in casual games, the keep-it-friendly convention.

Lonnie and Jo Trammell, wh o are helping popularize pickleball across East Wilco, are seen here at the National Pickleball Championship tournament.

Courtesy photo

The tennis courts in Murphy Park are a major attraction for pickleball players.

Photo by Susan Yerkes

Soon the air was ringing with “poppop- pop,” and excited exclamations as the new players hustled up and down, whacking away with their paddles in the cool evening air.

That’s the great thing about pickleball – it’s easy for a beginner to pick up, enthusiasts said.

The gear is relatively cheap and easy to transport. And two pickleball courts can fit on one tennis court. Sometimes that means temporarily converting the court, marking the pickleball boundaries and setting up a portable pickleball net. As pickleball’s popularity soars, some

tennis courts are being permanently repurposed. And some longtime tennis lovers, such as Cmerek, have switched their game to pickleball.

Austin Pausewang made that transition. He grew up in Thrall playing all sports, but mainly tennis. Then an uncle introduced the family to pickleball. As a beginner, Pausewang placed third in his division at Taylor’s 2021 Pickleball Tournament. Now living in the Fort Worth area, he said he plays all the time, and he’s winning bigger tournaments.

“I tried going back to tennis, but it’s a

lot different now,” said Pausewang, who plans to stick with pickleball.

“It was kind of hard to find games in Thrall, but there’s a big group here where I live now; they’re out there every day,” he added. “Your age doesn’t matter. One family here has a 5-year-old son, and he hits the ball perfectly.”

Michelle Messex, another member of the informal pickleball boosters club in Taylor, lives in Granger, where she runs The Wild Hair Salon. A friend in Taylor introduced her to the game last year, and since there are no pickleball courts in Granger yet, she comes to Taylor to play.

Laura Sollars and Jo Trammell playing doubles.

Courtesy photo

Kim (left), Lonnie Trammell, Jo Trammell and Blandin go over some pointers.

Photo by Susan Yerkes

“Maybe as Granger grows with the Samsung project we’ll have something,” she said. “I’ve heard pickleball is for older people who are getting out of tennis. I’m 52, and I never played tennis, but I’m athletic and competitive. You just have to have some hand-eye coordination and be willing to move. And it’s such a social sport. You usually play doubles, and we always come to the net and tap paddles to begin with. It’s meant for people to get out and meet.”

“And it’s also all about looking cute,” she added. “We get to wear tennis skirts and cute tops. And some people get into paddles – you can get hot pink and green and all these different colors.“ Todd Osborn, a longtime Taylor resident now living in Austin, learned about pickleball with his family at church camp 11 years ago. He has been a fan ever since.

“I’m an avid tennis player, but I play way more pickleball now,” Osborn said.

“When it started at the camp it was just a few families. When my kids were too young to play tennis they could play pickleball. All the kids and adults started playing,” he added. “The learning curve is so small – for instance, in tennis a backhand is very challenging. But you can literally walk out on a pickleball court and within a few minutes you can play and have fun.”

According to Osborn, “This game has just taken off like crazy, with the leagues and everything. I joined a Round Rock league, and I have a group of guys more into competition that play at 6 a.m. two or three days a week.”

Osborn has worked with Cmerek and others to put on pickleball events in Taylor,

since the town doesn’t have an official pickleball club. He expects that will change soon.

With so many new folks embracing the sport, the pickleball community keeps growing. And relative veterans such as Cmerek and the Trammells continue to bring new players into the fold.

In East Wilco, some of them are likely to be Samsung workers and contractors –perhaps including some who learned from the pros at Murphy Park.

“This was fun… and goofy and funny. I enjoyed the game,” An said, as he looked over a selection of paddles Lonnie Trammell had brought along.

Blandin, who had previously played pingpong, said she preferred pickleball.

“I don’t feel so restricted. There’s so much more space to move,” she said.

As Cmerek said, the sport is not a fad. In East Wilco, it’s just beginning to pop, pop, pop up everywhere.

PICKLEBALL

NOTES

• The gear is inexpensive and easy to transport.

• Two pickleball courts can fit on one tennis court.

• “Kitchen”: The 7-foot zone on each side of the net is the nonvolley zone, more commonly referred to as “the kitchen.”

• “Dinking”: A shot executed near the net, usually with a soft touch and trying to land the ball just over the fabric.

• Most important rule: Keep it friendly.

Larry ‘Hat’ Cmerek (second from left) goes over the basics of pickleball to guests from Samsung Engineering and Construction Inc. at Taylor’s Murphy Park.

Photo by Susan Yerkes

Larry ‘Hat’ Cmerek shows guests from Samsung Austin Semiconductor the pickleball ‘kitchen’ during practice at Taylor’s Murphy Park.

Photo by Susan Yerkes

MONTHLY EVENTS

THIRD MONDAY

The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce hosts a luncheon at The Taylor Mansion. The topics vary but usually focus on Taylor-related issues. $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Price includes the program and lunch. Reservations are mandatory.

TAYLOR PRESS SPORTS SHOW

Interested in local and college sports?

Check out the Taylor Press lively and opinionated show “Around the Water Cooler.” New shows every Thursday at 11 a.m. live streamed on Facebook @GoTaylorTx.

SPJST LODGE 29 TAYLOR

Every Friday, SPJST Lodge 29 hosts live music, dancing and serves hamburgers from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Admission is free.

HERITAGE SQUARE FARMER’S MARKET

The Heritage Square Farmer’s Market is a weekly year-round market offering a variety of high-quality locally grown produce, responsibly raised meats, and unique handmade goods from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans. The Heritage Square Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Farmer’s Pavilion.

SECOND SATURDAY SHOP & STROLL

Every second Saturday of the month, downtown shops stay open a little later to encourage local shopping and community togetherness.

YOUR GOVERNMENT TAYLOR CITY COUNCIL

The Taylor City Council meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, 6 p.m. at City Hall, 400 Porter St. Agendas are posted to the city’s website Tuesday prior. Meetings are streamed live from the city’s website. You may sign up for notifications about this and other Taylor boards and commissions on the homepage of the city’s website, ci.taylor.tx.us.

TAYLOR SCHOOL BOARD

Taylor school trustees meet 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month, in the board room at the central administration office, 3101 N. Main St. Agendas are posted to the school’s website the Friday prior to the meeting.

WEEKLY CIVIC CLUB MEETINGS KIWANIS CLUB

Every Wednesday noon at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St.

ROTARY CLUB

Every Thursday at noon at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St.

LIONS CLUB

Every Friday at noon at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St.

JANUARY

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MARCH AND PROGRAM

On MLK Day, the march begins at 9 a.m. at the Vickey-Givens Community center and ends at Heritage Square amphitheater. After the march, a program begins at 10 a.m. The Greater Taylor Area MLK Committee hosts the event.

CHAMBER & COMMUNITY AWARDS BANQUET

Happy hour begins at 6 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. The event includes dinner, an introduction of the Chamber and a presentation of awards for Business of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, Woman of the Year, Customer Service of the Year and Citizen of the Year. Email info@taylorchamber.org or call 512-352-6364.

TAYLOR LIONS CLUB CHILI SUPPER

This only happens once a year so don’t miss your chance. A $10 donation gets you a big bowl of Texas Chili! The event is drive-thru only and there are limited tickets, purchase ahead of time. All proceeds help the Leader Dogs for the Blind program, Texas Lions Camp and several other local organizations.

RUN FOR THE ROSES 5K

Each year on the Third Saturday in January the Taylor Garden Club sponsors the “Run for the Roses” 5K Race along the hike and bike trails throughout the Taylor parks system.

FEBRUARY

VICTORIAN VALENTINE GALA

The gala will be Thursday before Valentine’s Day at The Moody Museum, corner of Ninth and Talbot streets. The event kicks off the membership drive for the Friends of the Moody Museum. Those who attend will be treated to music played on the Moody family piano (circa 1901). There will be food and drink for guests. Tickets available at the door. To learn more, call 512-365-7396.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Special programs sponsored by The Taylor Juneteenth Committee, O.L. Price Ex-Student’s Association and Taylor High School. Activities held at various Taylor schools.

MARCH

SPRING HEALTH FAIR

At the Taylor ISD Events Center for face painting, balloon animals, door prizes, free healthy snacks, fresh popcorn and other fun surprises, 3101 N. Main St.

TAYLOR PUBLIC LIBRARY

During Spring break, the library will host movies, crafts all week and a truck petting zoo.

EASTER EGG HUNTS

The Saturday before Easter, the city of Taylor will host an Easter Egg hunt at Heritage Square, 400 N. Main St. Children are divided into two age groups. One parent or adult must accompany each child. Contact Main Street Manager, Jan Harris at jan.harris@ taylortx.gov.

APRIL

BIRD PARADE

The first Saturday of April, Good Life Taylor hosts a bird-watching event at Murphy Park. Attendees are encouraged to dress up as birds.

LUMINARIES ON THE SQUARE

The second Friday in April, New Century Club and Immanuel Lutheran Church will host a memorial event for survivors of cancer, those still fighting and those who passed.

BREAK THE SILENCE WALK/RUN

On the third Saturday of April, the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center raises awareness of sexual abuse to chil-

dren and extends resources on the subject. There will be a 5K, information booths and other activities.

MUSIC ON MAIN CONCERT

The third Thursday in April through June and Sept. through Nov. is devoted to free concerts at Heritage Square organized by the Public Arts Advisory Board and city of Taylor.

ST. MARY’S SPRING GALA

St. Mary’s Catholic School on-campus church, St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, hosts a spring gala.

FUNDRAISER

Cinderella’s Closet will host an annual fundraiser to support its non-profit vision of helping low-income families have access to prom dresses. For more, contact 512269-8801.

VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Deadline to register to vote for the City Council and School Board elections across the county is early April. Early voting begins around April 24. Election Day is the first Saturday in May.

MAY

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE

Oasis Church will host a prayer service on the first Thursday of May.

BLACKLAND PRAIRIE DAY

First Saturday in May. Live talent, food, arts and crafts and children’s activities in downtown Taylor beginning at 10 a.m. Contact Main Street Manager, Jan Harris at jan. Harris@taylortx.gov.

LOCAL ELECTIONS

First Saturday in May. Seats on the area school boards and the city councils are up for voter consideration. Watch the Taylor Press print edition and website for candidate profiles and election information.

GRANGER LAKEFEST

Held Mother’s Day weekend in May the park across from Granger City Hall, 214 E. Davilla St. Granger Lakefest includes a kolache sale, parade, arts and crafts, a barbecue cook-off, children’s activities, an auction, an automobile show and horseshoe tournament. Enjoy a variety of food and drink, live music and a dance in the evening. Call Granger City Hall at 512-859-2755.

TAYLOR POOL & WATER FEATURES

Open for the summer Memorial Day weekend.

MEMORIAL DAY

Join Taylor-area veterans for a moving tribute at Murphy Park, 1600 Veterans Dr.

JUNE

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

The Taylor Juneteenth Committee will host the Juneteenth celebration in Fannie Robinson Park. The event is a time to come and enjoy the park and fellowship with others while celebrating Juneteenth.

STILES FARM FIELD DAYS

Field Day at Stiles Farm is held every June at the 3,000-acre farm located at 5700 FM 1063 in Thrall. New and innovative farm practices are demonstrated at the historic farm operated by the Stiles Farm Foundation. Field Days have been hosted there since 1963 and attract large groups to view demonstrations and education exhibits. For more, call 512-898-2214.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIF F’S POSSE RODEO

Sanctioned by the Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association, this rodeo includes some of the top cowboys from all over the US. The rodeo is held annually at the WCSP Arena, 1600 CR 305, Jarrell. Visit www.georgetownrodeo.com or email info@wcsprodeo.com.

RODEO GALA AND BLACKLAND BULL BUCK OUT

The 73rd Annual Taylor Rodeo Association hosts its kick-off gala and the Blackland Bull Buck Out event at the Williamson County Expo Center. The gala includes happy hour, dinner and live music. The following day, 40 of the best bull riders in the country compete for $20,000 in prizes. The event features live music and a silent auction. All proceeds support the philanthropic mission to provide scholarships to graduates in the area. This is a ticketed event.

JULY

TAYLOR’S 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS

The city of Taylor and the American Legion Graham D. Luhn Post 39 will host a July 4 event at Murphy Park, 1600 Veterans Drive. There will be food vendors and the swimming pool will be open. To cap off the evening, there will be a large fireworks display.

TAYLOR PRESS ANNUAL 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The second weekend in July. The Taylor Press hosts an annual 3-on3 basketball tournament to fund its scholarship, which is given to an area high school student. A portion of the proceeds is also donated to a local non-profit organization. Age divisions for the event are 11-14, 15-17 and 18 and older (anyone who has played varsity level will play in this division). For more, call Director Jason Hennington 512-269-9735 or taylorpress3on3@gmail.com.

TAYLOR RODEO

Since 1950, Taylor Rodeo Association proudly hosts the Taylor Annual Rodeo in the hometown of Bill Pickett. The crowd of attendees continues to grow each year because of the enthusiasm, but most of all, for the entertainment. It is one of the biggest smalltown rodeos. Visit https://www.taylorrodeo.org/.

AUGUST

TAYLOR INTERNATIONAL BBQ COOK-OFF

The Taylor International BBQ Cook-off began in 1978 and still thrives today. It serves to celebrate the area’s best barbecue cookers competing in one of the state’s most prestigious cook offs. Plus, the TIBC is now a certified federal 501(c)(3) nonprofit, making donations fully tax deductible. Call 512-844-4476.

MICHELL E’S HOT PEEPS BEAT CC 5K/1K ANNUAL 6TH YEAR

The Michelle’s Hot Peeps Beat CC 5K/1K is the 6th Annual fundraiser for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, bringing awareness to the public and providing research for those effected by this rare form of liver cancer. John M. McDonald started the race in honor of his wife, Michelle McDonald, who was taken just five months after her diagnosis. The Foundation’s goal is to find a cure in the next 10 years. The chip-timed 5K Fun Run/Walk and Kids’ Dash is open to all ages. Register by Aug. 1 at https://www.athleteguild.com/. For more, call McDonald at 512-569-6247.

SEPTEMBER

LABOR DAY HOLIDAY

Area schools and government offices will be closed.

KID FISH AT BULL BRANCH PARK

Taylor Parks and Recreation will host an event to teach children how to fish and test their skills in a competition for prizes. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and fishing starts at 9 a.m. The event is free for children.

9/11 MARCH

The Taylor Fire Department hosts an annual community march honoring the lives first responders and citizens who were lost during 9/11. The march begins at Seventh and Main streets and ends at Heritage Square for an hour-long program that will include a guest speaker, raising of the flag and a volley salute. Anyone is welcome to join. It starts at 7 p.m.

TAYLOR CHAMBER BUSINESS AND JOB EXPO

Presented by the Taylor Chamber of Commerce at the Williamson County Exposition Center every second Saturday of September. Attendees have the chance to interact with businesses and organizations in their field of interest. A resume workshop and mock interviews will be held to round out the experience. Visit taylorchamber.org or call 512352-6364. This event is free to the public.

THE TAYLOR SPJST LODGE #29’S ANNUAL BARBECUE COOK-OFF

Barbecue cookers from across Central Texas submit entries in a variety of categories, including chicken, brisket, pork ribs, jackpot beans, cook’s choice, dessert and even Best Rig (best barbecue setup). The event features a silent auction and two days of live music and dancing. Visit http://www. taylorspjst.com/bbq-cook-off.html or call 512-352-9139.

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC COMMUNITY FALL FESTIVAL

Sunday, September 10, St. Mary’s will host its Homecoming Celebration with a barbecue meal, optional dessert for donation, live music, concessions, a raffle drawing, live and silent auction and lots of family games. Dine in and Drive through plates are $15.

OCTOBER GOOD LIFE TAYLOR’S 11TH ANNUAL 5K

Presented by Good Life Taylor to raise money for specially selected community improvement projects. Good Life Taylor focuses on outdoor family activities including park use, pets and home gardening. The 5K course zips runners through North Taylor and has multiple scenery changes all on a flat route. The race starts and finishes in Bull Branch Park. Visit http://www.goodlifetaylor.com or call Julie Rydell at 512-294-1972.

ANNUAL BARBECUE FUNDRAISER

The Brethren Church hosts an annual barbecue fundraiser on the first Saturday in October. BBQ plates will include meat, noodles, beans and dessert. There will be a country store with homemade baked goods, canned goods, bread and other tasty treats. Children’s activities will be available too. Contact 512-352-6423.

OLDE TYME DAYS FESTIVAL

Presented by the Hutto Chamber of Commerce, go back in time and interact with an annual event of Hutto. On East St., in front of the Hutto Chamber of Commerce, enjoy food and art vendors, live music all day and a special car show. The festival stretches from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. To register, visit https://cm.huttochamber.com/events/. For questions, call the Hutto Chamber of Commerce at 512-759-4400.

MAIN STREET CAR SHOW

The last weekend in October. Historic Downtown Taylor is blocked off for a wide-range categories from tractors to modern cars to lifted trucks. Some car models are so rare, most people may only see them in video games. There will be live music in Heritage Square and storefront shopping.

COUPLAND CHOO CHOO FEST

The annual Choo Choo Fest is held on a Sunday at St. Peter’s Church of Coupland by the Coupland Civic Organization. The CCO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that owns and maintains the historic Coupland depot and caboose. Proceeds from the festival go toward preserving them. This family-friendly event features a barbecue dinner by certified chef Peter Wabble “with all the trimmings” and a silent auction and bake sale in the fellowship hall of the church. Visit susangarry.wixsite.com/choochoofest or call Susan Garry at 512762-7768.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY RODEO AND FAIR

The Williamson County Fair and Rodeo is permitted by the Cowboys Professional Association and the United Professional Rodeo Association. The rodeo includes eight traditional events such as rodeo bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronco riding, tie down calf roping, ladies breakaway, team roping, ladies barrel racing and bull riding. Along with special events such as kids’ mutton bustin’, a kids’ calf scramble and a drill team on horseback. Extra fun includes a Selena Tribute Band, Lil Plunkett Circus and Paul Bunyan’s Lumberjack show.

SPOOKTACULAR

On Halloween, Oct. 31, Taylor Main Street, Taylor Public Library and the city of Taylor host a Scare on the Square event. Participants can help hand out candy, contact Main Street Manager Jan Harris ja.harris@taylortx.gov. The Taylor Public Library hosts the costume party, contact 512-352-3434.

NOVEMBER

VETERANS 5K BEER RUN

The American Legion Graham D. Lund Post 39 hosts its annual Veterans 5K Beer Run for anyone who wants to participate. The course is 3.1 miles with eight beer stations throughout the race. Each station has water and a 4-ounce taster, which equates to two and half beers during the race. Runners are not required to drink beer. Visit https://www.athleteguild.com/ event/taylor-tx/2023.

DECEMBER

PARADE OF LIGHTS

The city will host a parade(s) on the first weekend in December. After the parade, attendees can visit Santa in the Square.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT THE MOODY MUSEUM

Guests are welcome to see the Moody Museum decorated in a Victorian-era décor as it may have been decorated when the Moody family lived in it. Local school children from kindergarten through fourth grade are invited for a stroll back-in time. There will be an ornament arts and craft station and a Christmas tree photo-op opportunity. The Museum will be open during normal business hours.

WCLA LIVESTOCK SHOW & YOUTH FAIR

Williamson County FFA and 4-H members participate in the Williamson County Livestock Show. Funds raised through the junior livestock show auction directly go to youth and their livestock raising projects. The money students receive is reinvested into the community through the purchase of goods and services, and some will be saved for furthering their education.

PILGRIMAGE TO BETHLEHEM AND LIVE NATIVITY

Immanuel Lutheran Church will have their annual Pilgrimage to Bethlehem and live nativity. The event is a chance to walk through and watch the Christmas story play out before your eyes. Follow the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem’s stable. Mingle with people in biblical era costumes and feel the stern looks of the Roman guards. Free tours are every 20 minutes between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Murphy Park 100 years of growth and culture

ANDREW SALMI andrew.salmi @granitemediapartners.com

JASON HENNINGTON

jason.hennington @granitemediapartners.com

The addition of a place to swim in Taylor has turned into a 100 years of festivities, events, programs and a place for the community to love – Murphy Park.

This gorgeous park broke ground way back in 1925 when the city of Taylor secured 60 acres of land from Dan Murphy Sr.

A $25,000 bond was used to purchase the land that extended from Ninth Street to Lake Drive and provided facilities for the public with future improvements on the way with numerous varieties of trees being added over the years.

In 1923, Taylor city commissioners discussed securing a swimming pool, which at that time was called a natatorium, and Ruby Murphy helped end all previous objections for location.

Murphy offer the city a 14-tract of land to be used for park purposes in the northern part of the city.

“Not only does this provide for a good site for the erection of the natatorium, but at the same time it supplies what has long been a city need and that is ground for a city park,” according to a story from the Aug. 15, 1923, issue of the Taylor Daily Press.

The article mentioned A.J. Zilker, then owner of the Water Company, was ready to sign up the water

rights the very minute the city decided they wanted a natatorium. Zilker promised to furnish the water for the natatorium provided the proceeds go to the manual training department of the high school.

The city did not have the $45,000 necessary to make the pool usable year-round along with a playground and campsite on the grounds. A bond proposition was taken to the citizens, which aded only a few cents to taxes.

“If the citizens, however, want to keep Taylor ahead and provide healthy and enjoyable recreation for themselves and families as well as secure an attraction that would add wealth to the whole town in general and provide a source of revenue for the manual training department of the high school, which in turn would give some real practical training to the young citizen, they can do so by supporting a bond issue,” the 1923 article said.

With a 389 for and 51 against vote, a $50,000 bond package was passed. The property for the park was $24,000, and the remaining funds were used to cover costs for the natatorium and improving the playground area.

The pool was built in 1925 with a wooden bathhouse and a pavilion.

The American Legion constructed a hall in the park in 1929, which had a 25-year lease that was eventually renewed in 1960. Just north of the hall, the first tennis courts were constructed in 1961 by the city of Taylor.

During the 1930s, two ponds in the center of the park were dug and the dam for the lakes had its construction completed in 1938.

A fenced-in play area for children was donated by the Kiwanis Club in 1945 with other play facilities, small picnic tables, and barbecue pits built by the city.

In 1946, a more modernized wooden bathhouse and pavilion were both upgraded and by 1954 there was a brand new filter system installed.

The northern part of Murphy Park has Teen Den, which was made of a Camp Swift barracks that was put there in 1947 and controlled by the Taylor Teen Den Association.

For many years the park is widely known for its extravagant bird presence, most notably the egret/heron rookery and roost in the center of the lake for wading birds and their young.

“Several different species of herons and egrets nest on the island,” states an entry on the Texas Master Naturalist website. “During late summer, birds that nested on the Texas coast fly north with their young and spend their nights at the roost. Year-round birds include Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets, domestic geese and ducks, and even a Snow Goose that has made its home at the park. Summer and migrating birds are Snowy Egrets, Cattle Egrets, Little Blue Herons, Green Herons, Double-crested Cormorant, Tropical Cormorant, Yellowcrowned Night herons and red-bellied whistling ducks.”

Murphy Park currently sits on 120 acres of land at 1600 Veterans Drive and has a plethora of amenities for the public to enjoy. This includes two little league baseball fields, two open practice fields, 10 tennis courts, one tennis hitting wall, Memorial Field, two pavilions, one competition pool, one wading pool, a city lake that allows fishing from the bank, one bandstand, 42 picnic tables, two separate playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, three restrooms and a native plant garden. The Liberty Garden was dedicated to the memory of Betty Jackson, a Good Water Chapter member.

The two large pavilions in the park, lower and upper, can each be rented independently or together for events. The upper covered pavilion, which is completely fenced off for extra security, is located on Veterans Drive next to the Murphy Park Aquatic Center and near the American Legion facility.

Naming the park

After determining that the park would be built, an appropriate name was necessary for the park. In the Aug. 13, 1923 edition of the Taylor Daily Press, 30 suggested names was released for consideration. Two issues later, additional names were added to the original list.

Suggested Park Names

Memorial Park

American Park

Apollo Park

Fairview City Park

Clearwater Park

City Park

Citizens’ Park

Murphy Park

Municipal Park

Pleasure Park

Zilker Park

Zilmer Park

Zil-Murry Park

Zil-Mur Park

Harding Park

Meridian Park

Highway Park

Municipal City Park

Texas Play Ground

Palace Park

Doak Park

Taylor’s Pride

Pride of Taylor

Liberty Park

Colonial Park

Harding Park

Taylor’s Beauty Place

Place of Beauty

North Side Park

Rotanis Park

Tourist Park

Union Park

Freedom Park

TAYLOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

DISTRICT BOUNDARIES

Taylor ISD consists of 89 square miles within Williamson County. The district’s boundaries predominantly extend north to the San Gabriel River, south to Brushy Creek, east to Farm Market 619 and west to FM 101.

TAYLOR ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Place 1 —Shorty Mitchell, Vice President shortym@floydsglass.com

Place 2 — Anita Volek, Assistant Secretary andvolek@sbcglobal.net

Place 3 — Cheryl Carter, Secretary stix5mom@yahoo.co

Place 4 — Marco R. Ortiz, President mortiz721@aol.com

Place 5 — Joseph Meller, Member jwmeller@gmail.com

At Large — Jim Buzan, Member jim.buzan@taylorisd.org

At Large — Marilyn Tennill, Member mtennill76574@gmail.com

TISD ADMINISTRATION

OFFICE

Superintendent: Dr. Devin Padavil 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor dpadavil@taylorisd.org

Phone: 512-365-1391

Fax: 512-365-3800

Assistant Superintendent of Organizational Management: Tiffany Whitsel

Twhitsel@taylorisd.org

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning: Clarissa Rodriguez crodriguez@taylorisd.org

Chief Financial Officer: Lorine David ldavid@taylorisd.org

Executive Director of Elementary Schools & Special Programs: Jennifer Patschke jhp@taylorisd.org

Director of English Learner Services: Sandra Martinez smartinez@taylorisd.org

Communications and Community Liaison: Tim Crow tcrow@taylorisd.org

512-365-1391 x1058

TISD TRANSPORTATION

OFFICE

Coordinator: Carl Caldwell

Address: 3101 N Main, Bldg. B; Taylor, Texas 76574

Phone: 512-365-5584

Website: www.taylorisd.org

TISD PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT

Address: 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor

Phone: 512-365-1391

Fax: 512-365-3800

TISD CHILD NUTRITION DEPARTMENT

Sodexo Food Service Director: Lindsey Gage

Assistant Director: Jamie Hackett

Secretary: Angelica Cazalas

Phone: 512-365-1391

COMMUNITY SERVICES/ ELECTIONS/ COMMUNICATIONS

Technology Integration and Communication Coordinator: Misty Houston

mhouston@taylorisd.org

3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor

Phone: 512-365-1391 ext. 1058

Fax: 512-365-3800

GENERAL CAMPUS

INFORMATION

Website: www.taylorisd.org

TH JOHNSON ELEMENTARY

Early childhood, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten

3100 Duck Lane, Taylor

Principal: Andy Basche abasche@taylorisd.org

Phone: 352-2275

Fax: 512- 365-7112

Enrollment: 373

Pre-Kindergarten: students must be 4 years old by Sept. 1, to be eligible.

• 4-year-old students who live within the Taylor ISD boundaries may attend Pre-K for no charge if the family qualifies for the free or reduced lunch program or if the student qualifies as a limited English speaker.

• The district also offers a tuition-based Pre-K program for 4-yearold students who do not qualify for the free program at a cost of $400 per month on a space-available basis.

• Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by Sept. 1 and must live within the Taylor ISD boundaries.

Note: Pre-K for 3 year-olds is also now offered. Must qualify, tuition option not available for PK3. Note: there are other ways to qualify for free PK, although Free/ reduced lunch and limited English are how most qualify.

NAOMI PASEMANN ELEMENTARY

(First through third grades)

2809 North Dr., Taylor

Principal: Stephanie Heinchon sheinchon@taylorisd.org

Phone: 512-352-1016

Fax: 512-309-4461

Enrollment: 662

MAIN STREET INTERMEDIATE

(Fourth and fifth grades)

3101 N. Main Suite 105, Taylor

Principal: Mario Ramos mramos@taylorisd.org

Phone: 512-365-1999

Fax: 512-309-4471

Enrollment: 427

TAYLOR MIDDLE SCHOOL

(Sixth through eighth grades)

Address: 304 Carlos Parker Blvd., Taylor

Principal: Chelsey Ellison

cellison@taylorisd.org

Phone: 512-365-2815

Fax: 512-365-8589

Enrollment: 710

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL

(Ninth through 12th grades)

Address: 355 FM 973; Taylor

Principal: To Be Announced

Phone: 512-365-6326

Fax: 512-365-1351

Enrollment: 1,011

Taylor ISD Athletics

512-352-6326

Athletic Director: Brandon Houston bhouston@taylorisd.org

Assistant Athletic Director: Shelli Cobb

shellih@taylorisd.org

Athletic Director Secretary: Jonica Taylor jonicataylor@taylorisd.org

Taylor ISD Band/Color Guard Band Director: David Motl dmotl@taylorisd.org

Color Guard: Marcie Svatek msvatek@taylorisd.org

Academic Decathlon Director: Vickie Rowe vrowe@taylorisd.org

(512) 352-6326 x6031

LEGACY EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL

(Ninth through 12th grades)

Website: lechs.taylorisd.org

516 N. Main, Taylor

Administrator: Erika Elizondo eelizondo@taylorisd.org

Phone: 512-352-9596

Fax: 512-309-4477

Enrollment: 185

Legacy Early College High School offers select students the opportunity to earn a college Associate’s Degree while also earning a high school diploma.

EDC &CHAMBER

Taylor

TAYLOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

PO Box 975

112 W. Second St., Suite 203

Phone: 512-352-4321

Fax: 512-352-3252

www.tayloredc.org

Mark Thomas President/CEO

Regina Carlson

Business Development Manager

The Taylor Economic Development Corporation serves as the catalyst to build wealth for Taylor. This is achieved via an active Business Retention and Expansion program, an aggressive Industry Recruitment program and an involved Entrepreneurial Development program partnership with the Small Business Development Center and Temple College. Success is measured by job creation and retention, industry expansion and relocation, tax base increase and small business startup in Taylor.

The TEDC also provides site-selection assistance to commercial ventures seeking to relocate to Taylor, as well as information and applications for federal, state and local financial incentives.

TEDC BOARD MEMBERS

Betty Day, Chair

Kelly Cmerek, 1st Vice Chair

Joe Burgess, 2nd Vice Chair

Robert Garcia, Treasurer

Rachel Westerman, Secretary

GREATER TAYLOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER

1519 N. Main St., Taylor

Email: info@taylorchamber.org

Phone: 512-352-6364

http://www.taylorchamber.org/

The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center represents a thriving, progressive community nestled in Williamson County, one of the fastest growing areas in the country. The Chamber offers member networking opportunities, entrepreneurship promotion and programs designed to educate business owners in ways to make their businesses stronger. Taylor has small town values united with big time ideas.

CHAIR

Ebby Green

CEO of Taylor Housing Authority

SECRETARY

Diana Phillips

Greater Taylor Chamber Foundation Chair

TREASURER

Ryan Stiba

President of Citizens National Bank

Brad Robbins Vice Chair

Essex Mortgage

Cheryl Webster

Past Chair

CEO of Noren Thermal Solutions

Ann Miller

Taylor Press, General Sales Manager

Billie Logiudice

Temple College at Taylor, External Relations/HS STEM Advisor

The Chamber gives monthly awards for customer service and businesses that contribute in extraordinary ways to the Chamber and the community.

On the Chamber’s calendar each year are Trades Days in March, Business Expo in September, a Gala social in April, a community awards banquet in January and Business Luncheons are held monthly.

In addition to that, the Chamber is actively involved in Taylor Works, a workforce development project and are active in legislative agendas to properly advocate for the businesses in our community.

Julie Downs

Tierra Grande Real Estate, Owner and Managing Agent

Mark Nibbelink

McCrory Timmerman Building

Sam Dowdy

S&D Plumbing, Owner

Scott Morales

Scott Morales Catering, LLC

Tim Tarbell

Baylor Scott & White

Zona Sweeney

Holiday Inn Express & Suites, General Manager

STAFF

Tia Rae Stone

President & CEO

Rachael Westerman

Membership and Operations Director

Church Directory

APOSTOLIC

Calvary Apostolic 10 Carmel Creekside Dr Hutto

512-238-0912

www.calvaryapostolic.org

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Crossroads Assembly of God

500 Carlos G. Parker Blvd. NW Taylor

512-352-6133

www.crossroadstaylor.org

BAPTIST

The First Baptist Church

300 N. Robinson St. Taylor

512-365-9000

No website available

First Baptist Taylor 2500 Mallard Lane Taylor

512-352-3144

www.fbctaylor.org

First Baptist 301 E. Mesquite P.O. Box 25 Granger 512-859-1389

www.fbcgranger.com

First Baptist Church 100 Sydney Blvd. Thorndale 512-898-4006

www.fbctdale.churchtrac.com

First Mexican Baptist – Primera

Iglesia Bautista

1699 W. Second St. Taylor

512-595-5662

No website available

First Shiloh Baptist 100 County Rd. 481 Thrall 512-856-0011

www.firstshiloftexas.com

God’s Way Christian Baptist Church 1101 W. Second St. Taylor 512-352-3832

www.gwcbctw.org

Little Ebenezer Baptist Church 215 Brushy St. Hutto 512-846-4040

www.littleebenezerbaptistchurch.com

Memorial Baptist Church 340 W. Lake Dr. Taylor 512-352-5988

www.memorialbc.net

Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist 602 Symes St. Taylor 512-352-3838

www.mtcalvarytaylor.org

Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church 213 E. Taylor St. Thrall 512-898-9562

www.mpbcthrall.org

Mt. Zion Baptist 104 E. Church St. 512-365-8612

Thorndale

No website available

Zion Chapel Missionary Baptist 512 E. MLK Jr. Taylor 512-365-5618

www.zionchapeltaylor.com

San Gabriel Baptist 263 CR 421A Thorndale

512-788-3655

www.sangabrielbaptistchurch.org

CATHOLIC

Our Lady of Guadalupe

111 W. Rio Grande St. Taylor

512-365-2380

www.ologtaylor.org

St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church

301 E. Fourth St. Taylor

512-365-2175

www.smtaylor.org

St. Patrick’s Catholic Church

2500 Limmer Loop Hutto

512-759-3712

www.stpatrickhutto.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ Town West

1616 Granger Rd. Taylor

512-595-5118

No website available

Highway 95 Church of Christ

2702 N. Main St. Taylor

512-352-6444

www.hwy95churchofchrist.org

The South Loop Church of Christ

303 Carlos Parker Blvd. SE Taylor

512-496-0545

www.southloopchurchofchrist.com

True Church of Christ

119 W. Second St., Suite D Taylor

512-352-6797

No website available

Church of God in Christ

515 Simon St. Taylor

512-352-1333

No website available

Whole Truth C.O.G.I.C.

800 E. Rio Grande St. Taylor

512-508-8714, 512-352-3372

No website available

CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

Taylor Brethren Church

710 Sloan St. Taylor

512-352-6423

www.taylorbrethren.org

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

2800 North Dr. Taylor

512-352-8564

www.churchofjesuschrist.org

EPISCOPAL

St. James Episcopal 614 Davis St. Taylor

512-352-2330

www.stjamestaylor.org

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

Jehovah’s Witnesses

2703 Medical Pkwy Taylor

512-352-5954

www.jw.org

LUTHERAN

Christ the Rock Lutheran Church

3250 Limmer Loop Hutto

No phone number available www.ctrtx.net

Hutto Lutheran 402 Church St. Hutto 512-759-2064

www.huttolutheranchurch.org

Immanuel Lutheran 411 CR 401 Taylor

512-365-9494

www.ilctaylor.org

Prince of Peace Lutheran 3101 CR 417 Taylor 512-365-6155

www.princeofpeacetaylor.org

St. John Lutheran

409 S. Main St. Thrall

512-898-2136

www.stjohnlutheran-thrall.com

St. Paul Lutheran 401 W. Seventh St. Taylor

512-356-1509

www.stpaultaylor.com

Trinity Lutheran

3505 N. Main St. Taylor

512-352-6958

www.trinity-taylor.org

St. Paul Lutheran Church

101 N. Third St. Thorndale 512-898-5455

www.stpauthorndale.com

St. John Lutheran Church

314 N. Sixth St. Thorndale

512-898-5152

www.stjohnsthorndale.com

METHODIST

Allen Chapel AME

516 Elliot St. Taylor

512-352-3945

No website available

First United Methodist Taylor 907 W. Lake Dr. Taylor

512-352-2593

www.fumctaylor.org

Hutto Discovery United Methodist 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd.

Hutto

512-846-1707

www.huttodiscovery.org

Pleasant Retreat

United Methodist Church

852 CR 458

Thorndale

512-543-3975

No website available

Tenth Street United Methodist 410 W. Tenth St. Taylor

512-352-2244

www.tenthstreetumc.org

Thrall United Methodist Church

201 E. Sheldon Ave. Thrall

512-352-2244

No website available

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Anchored in Grace Fellowship

413 W. Tenth St. Taylor

512-785-7870

www.anchoredingracefellowship.com

Bridge Church

747 County Road 138 Hutto

512-843-1683

www.bridge.church

Calvary Chapel of Taylor 114 W. Fourth St. Taylor 512-713-4034

www.calvarytaylor.org

Christ Fellowship 1517 McLain St. Taylor

512-352-7531

www.cfctaylor.com

Church in Round Rock 9100 SH 130 Hutto

512-814-7131

www.churchinroundrock.com

First Christian Church 603 Talbot St. Taylor

512-352-2753

No website available

Home Fellowship Church

131 Sulphur River Loop Hutto

909-510-7571

www.homefellowshipchurches.org

Hutto Bible Church

301 West St. Hutto

512-535-1431

www.huttobible.com

Hutto Community Church

304 E. Austin Ave. Hutto

512-626-7973

www.huttocommunitychurch.org

Iglesia Maranatha

2301 CR 107 Hutto

512-868-0049

www.maranathahutto.com

Lead Church

636 W. Front St. Hutto

512-270-0570

www.lead.church

Lifepointe Fellowship

1451 Carl Stern Dr. Hutto

512-759-2573

www.lifepointefellowship.com

Living Hope Church

212 Austin Ave. Hutto

512-762-7853

No website available

New Hope Christain Church

9850 FM 1600 Hutto

512-759-2665

www.newhopehutto.org

New Life Church of Hutto

3900 E. Palm Valley Blvd ( Hwy 79 )

Round Rock

833-488-8689

www.newlifehutto.com

Oasis Christian Church

1616 Old Granger Rd. Taylor

361-658-2318

www.facebook.com/oasischurchtylor

Potter’s House Christian Church of Taylor 220 E. Fourth St., Unit C Taylor 512-743-9983

www.taylorpottershouse.com

Reclaim Church 636 W. Front St. Hutto 512-960-1566

www.reclaimchurchtx.com

Restoration Temple of Deliverance 701 Davis St. Taylor 512-699-5341 www.rtod.org

Taylor Bible Church Coming in September! Taylor 903-268-7936 www.taylorbible.org

The Fellowship Church – Hutto 6655 Hwy 79 Hutto 512-255-8972

www.thefellowshipchurch.org

The Fellowship Church - Taylor 2900 N. Main St. Taylor 512-255-8972

www.thefellowshipchurch.org

204 Washburn

Taylor

512-569-1138

No website available

United Christian Church 603 Talbot St. Taylor

512-352-2753

No website available

PENTECOSTAL

Anointed Temple APF 704 E. Third St. Taylor 512-818-5724

No website available

Jerusalem Pentecostal 908 E. Walnut St. Taylor 512-352-6934

No website available

New Life of Taylor United Pentecostal 5300 N. Main St. Taylor 512-259-7271

www.newlifeoftaylor.com

Iglesia Pentecostes Sinai 1301 W. Second St. Taylor 512-309-4780

No website available

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

St. Peter’s Church of Coupland UCC 108 Wathen St. Coupland 512-856-2433

www.stpeterscoupland.org

City of Hutto

As the City of Hutto is increasingly known for balancing historic charm with strategic progress, Hutto leaders are committed to ensuring that the Hutto’s infrastructure and economy are developed responsibly. Planned capital improvements in Hutto include three projects along FM 1660, which together will reduce traffic delays, improve safety both for drivers and pedestrians and improve the ability to implement a railroad quiet zone. In addition, a comprehensive water supply study is in progress, construction of additional water pumping stations and waterline and well capacity improvements. The city of Hutto is also excited to begin developing a long-range Comprehensive Plan in close collaboration with residents and other community stakeholders. This new study will look at everything from parks and public facilities to roadways, accessibility, land use (zoning), population trends, and economic resiliency. The resulting plan will literally become the city’s roadmap to the future — guiding Hutto development patterns for decades to come.

HUTTO CITY HALL

500 W. Live Oak St.

Phone: 512-759-4033

www.HuttoTx.gov

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday

To start receiving HEY HUTTO!, the City’s free e-newsletter, please visit the Communications & Public Information page at www.HuttoTx.gov to sign up.

The City is governed by an elected mayor and 6-member City Council:

Mayor: Mike Snyder

Phone: 512-759-4034

Email: Mike.Snyder@HuttoTx.gov

Place 1 – Brian Thompson, Brian.Thompson@HuttoTX.gov

Place 2 – Dan Thornton, Dan.Thornton@HuttoTX.gov

Place 3 – Randal Clark, Randal.Clark@huttotx.gov

Place 4 – Peter Gordon, Peter.Gordon@HuttoTX.gov

Place 5 – Krystal Kinsey,

Krystal.Kensey@HuttoTX.gov

Place 6 – Amberley Kolar, Amberley. Kolar@huttotx.gov

City Manager: James Earp

Phone: 512-759-4030

Email: James.Earp@HuttoTX.gov

Assistant City Manager: Matt Wojnowski

Phone: 512-759-4406

Email: Matt.Wojnowski@HuttoTx.gov

COMMUNICATIONS

Public Information Officer: Allison

Strupeck

500 W. Live Oak St.

Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: 512-759-4059

Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Director of Economic Development: Bob

Farley

500 W. Live Oak, Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: 512-759-4012

Email: Bob.Farley@huttotx.gov

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Police Chief: Jeffery Yarbrough

401 W. Front St.

Non-Emergency Phone: 512-759-5978

HUTTO PARKS & RECREATION

Parks Superintendent: Jeffrey White

Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: 512-759-4000

Jeffrey.White@huttotx.gov

HUTTO PUBLIC LIBRARY

Librarian: Trudy Williams

Trudy.Williams@huttotx.gov

Address: 500 W. Live Oak St.

Phone: 512-759-4008

Hours:

Monday & Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday & Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Curb-side pick-up is available during all opening hours.

BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

Director of Development Services: Ashley Lumpkin

Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: 512-759-5961

Fax: 512-759-5962

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

Fax: 512-759-5973

Email: Finance@HuttoTx.gov

The Finance Department plans and directs the City’s financial activities.

MUNICIPAL COURT

Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: 512-759-1011

Fax: 512-846-2653

Email: MunicipalCourt@HuttoTx.gov

The Municipal Court Division is responsible for the judicial processing of Class C misdemeanors that originate

from traffic citations, citizen complaints, code violations, and misdemeanor arrests occurring within Hutto city limits.

PUBLIC WORKS

Public Works Director: Rick Coronado Rick.Coronado@HuttoTx.gov

Address: 500 W. Live Oak St. Phone: 512-759-4016

The Hutto Public Works Department manages the water supply and distribution system, wastewater system, streets, drainage and sidewalks of the city.

HUTTO AREA CHAMBER

www.huttochamber.com

Address: 122 East St., Hutto, TX 78634

Phone: (512) 749-4400

executivedirector@hutttochamber.com

Growing from a small local chamber formed in 1986 to one with nearly 300 members from the four corners and beyond, the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce membership represents businesses throughout the area.

The Chamber hosts several monthly meetings, including Networking after Hours, Chamber luncheons, ribbon cuttings, special events, the annual Driving Business Forward Golf Tournament and annual festivals such as the Hutto Crawfish Festival in April and Olde Tyme Days in October.

STAFF:

President: Tim Jordan

Membership Director: Leslie Hurley

Marketing Director: Shaiza Chaudhry

Finance and Accounting: Sonia Herrara

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Fingerprint Ideas – Chair: Drew

Hargrove

Vera Bank – Vice Chair: Joe Gonzalez

Realty Texas – Secretary: Anne Cano

Texas Pawn & Jewelry – Treasurer: Troy Farr

Members

• Reb Burgert, HEB Plus Hutto

• Bryan Byrd, Titan Development

• Donna Jones, Hutto Resource Center

• Will Thigpen, Thigs Diamond Kutz

• Mary Stone, Stone Stash Coffee

• Sean Garcia, Texas Trust Bank

• Aaron Saucedo, Barnsco

• Connie Gooding, Hutto Community Representative

AMBASSADORS

Chair: Dena Ebeling, Honest AC & Plumbing

Chair: Connie Gooding, Hutto

Community Representative

Ambassadors

• Sara Odom, Hutto Living

• Victor Henry, Don Quick & Associates

• Chris and Jena Dubon, Team Dubon-On Air Realty

• Misty Faigle, Hutto Flower Market & Boutique

• Laurie Gerberding, Texas Trust Bank

• Sean Garcia, Texas Trust Bank

• Roshon Alfred, Frostie’s

• Kristi Barnes, City of Hutto

• Rebecca Castillo, EXP Realty

• Kelbie Day, Kalahari Resorts

• Joe DeLeon, Temple Jr College

• Gabriel Delgado, Modern Woodsman, Ins

• Kacie Edmonds, Edward Jones

• Felix James, Forty 4 Designs

• Naomi Mason, Kalahari Resorts

• Ana Mata, IBC Bank

• Sonja Moore, Workforce Solutions

• Steve Phelps, The Purple Guys

• Debbie Taylor, ServPro

• Bobby Vasquez, Apollo Aerialography

• Regina, Senior Access

• Tracey Janowitz, Patriot Sports & Fitness

• Taylor Shearrer, Texas Farm Bureau

Insurance

HUTTO ISD

SNAPSHOT

Seven miles east of IH 35 on Hwy 79. Serving Hutto (78634, 78660) and portions of Georgetown (78626), Round Rock (78664, 78665) and Taylor (76574).

It’s a rapidly growing community of more than 30,000 people with a rich tradition of school support.

• 7 Elementary Campuses (Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

• 2 Middle School Campuses (6 to 8th grade)

• 1 High School Campus (10 to 12th grade)

• 1 Ninth Grade Center (only 9th grade)

• 1 Alternative Campus

ENROLLMENT

Total number of students: 9,623

African American: 13.23%

Hispanic: 46.58%

Caucasian: 29.851%

Asian: 3.007%

Economically Disadvantaged: 35.88%

English Language Learners: 8.76%

Bilingual Education: 6.25%

Gifted and Talented: 6.31%

Special Education: 15.86%

Military-Connected: 6.85%

Elementary

• Prekindergarten: 302 (3.14% of total enrollment)

• Kindergarten: 684 (7.11%)

• Grade 1: 748 (7.77%)

• Grade 2: 678 (7.05%)

• Grade 3: 763 (7.93%)

• Grade 4: 724 (7.52%)

• Grade 5: 687 (7.14%)

Secondary

• Grade 6: 686 (7.13%)

• Grade 7: 732 (7.61%)

• Grade 8: 737 (7.66%)

• Grade 9: 870 (9.04%)

• Grade 10: 680 (7.07%)

• Grade 11: 622 (6.46%)

• Grade 12: 636 (6.61%)

Male: 4,976 (51.71%)

Female: 4,647 (48.29%)

*All info from Snapshot as of Dec. 2022

BENJAMIN DOC KERLEY ELEMENTARY

Principal: Vacant

Address: 800 Hay Barn Lane

Phone: 512-759-5410

Fax: 512-759-5411

Enrollment: 688

www.hipponation.org/kes

COTTONWOOD CREEK ELEMENTARY (Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Principal: Linda Pachicano

Address: 3160 Limmer Loop

Phone: 512-759-5430

Fax: 512-759-5431

Enrollment: 615

www.hipponation.org/cces

HUTTO ELEMENTARY (Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Principal: Mrs. Ryan Winkelmann

Address: 100 Mager Lane

Phone: 512-759-2094

Fax: 512-759-4778

Enrollment: 748

www.hipponation.org/hes

HOWARD NORMAN ELEMENTARY (Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Principal: Carrie Abrams, Principal

Address: 1101 Llano River Trail

Phone: 512-759-5480

Enrollment: 596

www.hipponation.org/hnes

NADINE JOHNSON ELEMENTARY (Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Principal: Tonesha Holland

Address: 480 Carl Stern Blvd.

Phone: 512-759-5400

Fax: 512-759-5401

Enrollment: 614

www.hipponation.org/njes

RAY ELEMENTARY

(Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Assistant Principal: Alexis Campbell

Address: 225 Swindoll Lane

Phone: 512-759-5450

Fax: 512-759-5451

Enrollment: 679

www.hipponation.org/res

VETERANS HILL ELEMENTARY

(Prekindergarten to 5th grade)

Principal: Eric Johnson

Address: 555 Limmer Loop, Round Rock, TX 78665

Phone: 512-759-3030

Fax: 512-759-3980

Enrollment: 632

www.hipponation.org/vhes

HUTTO MIDDLE SCHOOL

(6 through 8th grade)

Principal: Kayla Gossett

Address: 1005 Exchange Blvd.

Phone: 512-759-4541

Fax: 512-759-4753

Enrollment: 1,195

www.hipponation.org/hms

FARLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL

(6 through 8th grade)

Principal: Ryan Burns

Address: 303 CR 137

Phone: 512-759-2050

Fax: 512-759-2033

Enrollment: 982

www.hipponation.org/fms

HUTTO HIGH SCHOOL

(10 to 12th grade)

Interim Principal: Rhonda McWilliams

Address: Chris Kelly Blvd.

Phone: 512-759-4700

Fax: 512-759-4757

Enrollment: 2,004

www.hipponation.org/hhs

HUTTO NINTH GRADE CENTER (9th grade)

Principal: Drew McConnaughhay

Address: 301 Destiny Lane

Phone: 512-759-3771 (district number only, NGC number not yet established)

www.hipponation.org/NGC

RIVER HORSE ACADEMY (Alternative education, 10 to 12th grade)

Principal: Desirae Hendricks Patterson

Address: 309 E Live Oak

Phone: 512-759-3020

www.hipponation.org/rha

EAST WILLIAMSON COUNTY HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER

Center includes Texas State Technical College, Temple College and Texas A&M.

TSTC: Technical Associate programs

Temple College: 2-year Associate programs

Texas A&M: Bachelor programs

Address: 1600 Innovation Blvd.

Phone: 512-759-5900

Fax: 512-759-5616

www.tstc.edu/campuses/williamsonco

www.templejc.edu/hutto/

www.tamuct.edu/about/ewchec.html

City of Thrall

HISTORY

Founded in 1876 as a railroad town, Thrall was first called Stiles Switch after the Stiles family, which owned a ranch at the site. A combination post office and general store opened in Thrall in 1901, and it was that same year that the town was renamed. Inspiration for the community’s new name was drawn from the highly esteemed Stiles family, Methodist minister and historian Homer S. Thrall.

The town was incorporated in 1915, the same year an oil boom increased the population from 25 to 3,000. By 1920, the oil boom had leveled off and the population of the town fell to 272.

Thrall steadily increased in population for several years, leveling off in 1952 with 584 people. In 2000, the population was 710, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Once again, Thrall’s numbers are increasing. In 2010, about 839 residents called Thrall home, according to the 2010 Census. This time, the impetus is not oil or wealth but quality of life. More and more residents are seeking solace in small, rural Central Texas towns in an effort to get away from the hustle and bustle of cities with large populations.

CITY OF THRALL

• 104 N. Main St., Thrall

• 512-898-5395

• Thrall has a mayor/commission form of government.

• Troy Marx, Mayor

• Melissa Perry, City Secretary

• Anja Martin and Clay Karch, Commission members

• www.cityofthrall.com

UTILITIES

Water, sewage and trash collection are handled through the city. Contact Thrall City Hall, 512-898-5306.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Police Department

• 104 S. Main St.

• Non-Emergency: 512-898-5407

• Whitney Whitworth, Department Chief

Duties include law enforcement, crime prevention and community policing in the city limits of Thrall. The department also does a variety of community service initiatives, including property registration.

Fire Department

• 214 S. Main Street

• 512-898-4272

• www.wcesd10.org

• Mark Moellenberg, Fire Chief, 512596-9189

• Jared Cummings, Assistant Fire Chief

• John Roulston-Bates and Zach Hall, District Chiefs

The Department responds to fires, rescues, vehicle collisions and provides emergency medical first response. Ambulance transport services are provided by Williamson County EMS.

Community programs include Fire Prevention Month in October, stop the bleed training, by-stander CPR and meeting with community groups on emergency preparedness and safety.

Fire department services are provided by the members of the all-volunteer Williamson County Emergency Services District #10. The Fire Department operates from Fire Stations in Coupland and Thrall providing service to approximately 214 square miles of eastern Williamson County, the city of Thrall, the city of Coupland and all or parts of communities such as Beyersville, Beaukiss, Rural Elgin, Hare, Laneport, Lawrence Chapel, Noack, Norman’s Crossing, Sandoval , Shiloh, Structure, Rices Crossing and Rural Taylor.

THRALL ISD

201 S. Bounds St. 512-898-0062

Fax: 512-898-5349

https://www.thrallisd.org/

BOARD OF EDUCATION

President: Bryan Holubec

Vice-President: Rodrigo Reyes

Secretary: Stephanie Ochoa

Members: Sonny Chandler

Brian Drummond

Wesley Grisham

Wesley West

Superintendent: Tommy Hooker

thooker@thrallisd.org

District boundaries: Boundaries are the San Gabriel River on the west and CR 619 to the south.

Transfer policies: Students who live outside of Thrall ISD may attend Thrall

schools. There is no transfer fee, but the transfer must be approved by the superintendent.

District-wide programs: Special education, English as a second language, gifted and talented, the migrant student program and more.

CAMPUSES

The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Excellence Indicator System performance reports.

INFORMATION

• Total enrollment: 819

• Ethnic distribution: 63.98% Caucasian, 2.20% African American, 30.65% Hispanic, 0.37% Asian, 2.81% Two or more races

• Average class size: 16 students

• Staff: 124

• Professional staff: 74.6 (teachers, support staff, administrators)

• Aides, Auxiliary staff: 34.5

• Average graduating class: 50 to 70 students

• Taxable value of property in the district: $426,499,065

• Local tax revenue: $4,332,886

• State revenue: $5,817,182

THRALL ELEMENTARY

Prekindergarten through Fourth

Address: 201 S. Bounds St.

Phone: 512-898-5293

Principal: Sherri Maruska, smaruska@ thrallisd.org

https://www.thrallisd.org/

Enrollment: 322

THRALL MIDDLE SCHOOL

Fifth through eighth grades

Address: 201 S. Bounds St.

Phone: 512-898-5328

Principal: Kimberly Luton, kluton@ thrallisd.org

www.thrallisd.com

Enrollment: 243

THRALL HIGH SCHOOL

Ninth through 12th grade

Address: 601 S. Bounds St.

Phone: 512-898-5193

Principal: Nicole Tindol, ntindol@ thrallisd.org

www.thrallisd.com

Enrollment: 254

City of Coupland

HISTORY

Located on SH 95 between Elgin and Taylor, Coupland traces its origins to 1887, when the town was established, and lots were sold for the Bastrop and Taylor Railway that was under construction. Coupland was named for Major Theodore van Buren Coupland, who settled in the area at that time.

The post office opened in 1889, with John Goetz as postmaster. By 1900, the town was a prosperous meeting place for the Swedish, German and Swiss farmers who had settled in the surrounding area.

Today, Coupland is home to the Old Coupland Inn and Dance Hall, a post office, gas station and several small businesses. The population of the community was 1,290 at the 2010 census.

CITY OF COUPLAND

Mayor: Jack Piper

Mayor Pro-Tem: Barbra Piper

City Secretary: Laverne Rohlack

Aldermen: John Roulston-Bates, Susan Garry, Karen Marosko and Russell Schmidt

COUPLAND CIVIC ORGANIZATION

The CCO meets the last Monday of

every month, except during the summer months of June, July and August, at St. Peter’s Church of Coupland. In addition to monthly meetings, the CCO hosts block parties, clean-up days and similar events for members of the community.

Another active group in the Coupland area that works with CCO is the Blackland Prairie Concerned Citizens Association, a rural neighborhood association organized in 2000 to guide the change from farming communities to suburban rural living.

• President: Susan Schmidt

• Treasurer: Mike Schneider

• Asst. Treasurer: Becky Sutton

• Board of Directors

• Judy Downing

• Jonathan Jones

• Barbara Piper

• Ruby Wabbel

• Susan Garry

A focal point of the community is St. Peter’s Church of Coupland, 108 Wathen. The CCO meets at the church, which also has dinners frequently throughout the year to keep the community closely connected.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

The Williamson County Sheriff’s Department, based in Georgetown but with deputies in the area, provides law enforcement in the area as the community has no police department.

Fire department services are provided by the members of the all-volunteer Williamson County Emergency Services District #10. The Fire Department operates from Fire Stations in Coupland and Thrall providing service to approximately 214 square miles of eastern Williamson County.

Duties are firefighting, helping with vehicle wrecks and medical assists to Williamson County EMS. The Department responds to fires, rescues, vehicle collisions and provides emergency medical first response. Ambulance transport services are provided by Williamson County EMS.

Fire Chief Mark Moellenberg leads the department and is supported by Assistant Fire Chief Jared Cummings and District Chiefs John Roulston-Bates and Zach Hall. Community programs include Fire Prevention Month in October, stop the bleed training, by-stander CPR and meeting with community groups on emergency preparedness and safety. To contact the department, call 512-8984272, 512 856-0421 or visit their website www.thrallvfd.org or www.wcesd10.org.

Precinct 4 Constable Paul Leal and his staff serve warrants to most of Eastern Williamson County, including Coupland. Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace Rhonda Redden handles court cases.

COUPLAND ISD

Coupland ISD has a Pre-kindergarten through eighth grade campus and is home to the Coupland Cowboys. After eighth grade graduation, students go to Taylor, Thrall or Elgin high schools.

Though the school does not participate in UIL athletics, games are organized with other small schools throughout the region. In grades 6-8, offerings include flag football for boys, volleyball for girls, basketball and track.

The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Performance reports, the most recent information available at the time of this publication.

COUPLAND SCHOOL

(Grades Pre-K-8)

Superintendent/Principal: Tammy Brinkman

Address: 620 S. Commerce St., Coupland, TX 78615

Phone: 512-856-2424

Fax: 512-856-2222

Mascot: Cowboys

Athletic Director: Kyle Rinderknecht

Website: www.couplandisd.org

Enrollment: students 263

Elementary, Pre-K-5: 165

Middle school, 6-8: 65

Professional staff: 14

Teachers: 13

Professional support: 0.0

Central administration: 5

Educational aides: 2

Avg. teacher experience: 15.0 years

Taxable value of property in the district: $107,592,438

Local tax revenue: $1,241,617

State, Federal revenue: $1149,215

Demographics:

Hispanic: 36%

Caucasian: 54%

Economically disadvantaged: 51%

SCHOOL BOARD

President : Crystal Ward

Vice President : Michael Roepke

Secretary : Terry Wallin

Member : Mike Welch

Member : David Young

Member : Misty Garwood

Member : Phil Viktora

City of Granger

HISTORY

Spring 2014, the Texas House of Representatives honored the Granger Independent School District with a house resolution honoring the Lions for 127 years as a public school district—part of a year-long celebration of community history.

Granger ISD was founded in 1887 as the Granger Common School District.

More than 150 high school students, about 25 faculty and staff, as well as school board members and other residents—all dressed in bright purple— filled the House Gallery for the occasion. Among other community members in attendance was Mary Labaj, a 1936 graduate of Granger High School.

The celebrations throughout the 201213 school year included special events at sports events throughout the school year and culminated with the annual alumni homecoming in May. This year, the 134th anniversary homecoming coincided with the 44th annual Lakefest, another community event featuring a carnival, food booths, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, a barbecue-cook-off, musical performances and more. The event is named for Granger Lake, formed by a dam on the San Gabriel River that has been open to the public since 1981.

The community takes pride in its heritage dating to 1882 when the Houston

and San Antonio branches of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas railroad intersected at the site that later became the town.

The town was first named Pollack and later Granger after the Grange association and for John R. Granger, a Civil War veteran.

Granger was an important cotton shipping point. The town’s first newspaper, the Granger Banner, appeared sometime before November 1887. A post office was established in April 1884, and banks, churches and schools followed.

In 1890, Granger had three churches, a college, a hotel and five gins. The town was incorporated in 1891. By 1900, the population had risen to 841, and it doubled in the next 10 years. By 1910, a combined cotton compress and cottonseed oil mill, an electric light plant, an ice factory and a waterworks were built.

Mark Jones opened the town’s first bank in 1894. In 1912, Granger became the only town in Texas with a population of less than 5,000 that had paved streets.

The Storrs Opera House, built by A.W. Storrs in 1905, hosted traveling shows and even featured the Chicago Opera Company.

Immigrants from Czechoslovakia and Moravia settled in the area and by the early 20th century, Czech culture had become strong and influential in the community. A Czech Protestant church was first organized in Granger in 1880. A

Brethren congregation was established in 1892. A Brethren teacher-training summer school, called Hus Memorial School, was established in Granger in 1914. It was later moved to Temple.

CITY OF GRANGER

CITY HALL

Address: 119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530

Phone: 512-859-2755

Fax: 512-859-2871

www.grangertx.us

Granger has a mayor/alderman form of government.

Mayor: Monica Stojanik, Mayor

Mayor Pro-Tem.:

Linda Rosie Sweeting

Aldermen

Lori Gick

Ron Marx

Lee Weaver

Mark Matoska

City hall is where billing and city administration are housed.

City Administrator: Christy Cavness

Bradshaw

City Clerk: Sabrina Marmolejo

Accounts Payable: Beverly Currie

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

City hall phone: 512-859-2755

Department Director: Spencer Green

Department employees

Kurt Kaderka

Clayton Green

Wayne Michalik

Jason Edison

COURTS

Municipal court is presided over by Judge Scott Matthew. Court is held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at city hall in Granger. Call 512-859-2755.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Police Department

Police Chief: Jesse Eckard

Address: 119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530

Phone: 512-859-2644

The department is staffed by Sgt. Tommy Thomas and Officer Mark Gray.

The Granger Police Department performs community policing and crime prevention within Granger city limits.

Community programs include Operation ID, where people can engrave their valuables with their driver’s license and the department is currently trying to start a Neighborhood Watch program.

Fire Department

Fire Chief: James Chervenka

Fire Marshal: Keeling Neves

Address: 107 S. Granger St., Granger, TX 76530

Phone: 512-859-2755

The Granger Volunteer Fire Department performs firefighting, fire protection, first responder duties and vehicle accident response in Granger and the surrounding rural areas. The department covers an area that reaches halfway to Weir, north to FM 972, east to San Gabriel and south to FM 1331 and SH 29.

GRANGER ISD

BOARD OF EDUCATION

President: Daryl Stefek

Vice President: Jeanette Welles

Secretary: Kelli Hutka

Board Members

Jason Huf

Josh Richter

Maggie Shirocky Smith

Mark Harwell

Superintendent

Jeni Neatherlin, jneatherlin@granger.txed.net

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Address: 300 N. Colorado, PO Box 578, Granger

512-859-2613

512-859-2446

www.grangerisd.net

Granger Independent School District is a public school district established in 1887. The district serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students and is a “recognized” academic district by the Texas Education Agency. Granger High School is classified as 2-A by the University Interscholastic League.

District boundaries: The district lies totally within Williamson County, north of the San Gabriel River. The eastern boundary is the eastern edge of the county.

GRANGER SCHOOL

Pre-kindergarten through 12 grades

Secondary School Principal: Shane Wagner

Elementary School Principal: Jennifer Cundieff

Address: 300 N. Colorado, Granger

Phone: 512-859-2173

Mascot: Lion

Total students: 463