f.y.i. 2020
Your guide to East Williamson County
Small town resilience How WilCo battled COVID-19
Calendar of Events
Plenty of things to do in East Wilco!
Press TAYLOR
Antique Emporium 310 North Main Street Taylor, Texas 76574 (512) 595-5595 getdirty@dirtroadsalvage.com
Grand Opening this fall!
200 West 2nd Street Taylor, Texas 76574 kinclantiques@gmail.com
(512) 595-5075
The Taylor Press is still your connection to the community. The Taylor Press is essential.
The Taylor Press is here for you. “One business that must stay open and can’t stop working are newspapers . . . telling the story of what is going on is imperative and I need for you to continue to do that.” - Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell
Carolyn Hill
BUSINESS MANAGER
Fernando Castro SENIOR REPORTER
Jason Hennington PUBLISHER
Matt Hooks
SPORTS REPORTER
512-352-8535 www.TaylorPress.net
https://www.facebook.com/GoTaylorTx/
Regina Taylor ADVERTISING
WELCOME TO
Taylor
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to East WilCo
6
City of Taylor
10
FEATURE: Small Town Resilience
16
Church Directory
38
City of Hutto
41
City of Thrall
44
City of Coupland 46 City of Granger
48
I
f you are new to our part of East Williamson County (or East Wilco, as we often call it), a visitor here to sample the barbecue (for which we are justly famous) or to watch your kids play in a summer tournament at our Regional Sports Complex or skate at our downtown skate park, this magazine is your manual of essential information. So much more has happened since the last time we produced this magazine. We have a beautiful hotel near the complex. A new rodeo and fair will be held in October, and East Wilco continues to grow. And, we learned how to live in a world with social distancing. If you are a native of Taylor, Coupland, Thrall, Granger or Hutto, we hope you’ll find a surprise or two hidden in these pages. If you are new to town, this magazine can help you get your water and electricity hooked up, tell you who to call at City Hall if you have a problem and offer practical information about our schools. Visitors can learn about our parks and our fabulous Moody Museum and, perhaps, why we believe Taylor is the Heart of the Texas BBQ Trail. Finally, refer to this magazine as a guide to some of our most successful businesses. The folks who support this special publication with their advertising dollars hope you will stop by and see them. We do too. Please give them the opportunity to serve you. We hope you will find this magazine useful and will keep it around your home or office as a source of local information. And please let us know if you want extra copies or have a suggestion as to how we can make it better. Welcome to East Wilco. We call it home. You can, too. Jason Hennington publisher@taylorpress.net 512-352-8535
4 • FYI 2020
Visit us at www.taylorpress.net for more information!
St. Paul Lutheran Church And Child Development Center
Walk With Us As Disciples of Christ | Rev. Dr. George Qualley, Pastor Sharing Gods Love | Activities For Every Age | Academic – Spiritual – Social
401 West Seventh Street - Taylor, Texas
Church Ministry Program Sunday Worship 9:15 am Power Half Hour service 11:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:45 am
Child Development Center Infants – 5th Grade Quality Care & Education 6:15 AM– 6:00 PM - All Year Preschool and Pre K 3&4
Youth Ministry Grades 2 – 12
Before and After School Care
Senior Ministry
Summer Fun Program
Scout Troop 167 Since 1928 512-352-2327 stpauloffice@austin.twcbc.com www.stpaultaylor.com
512-352-2773 stpaulcdc@austin.rr.com www.stpaultaylorcdc.com
Don't let a fender bender ruin your day! PAINTING • FRAME REPAIR AND ALIGNMENT • COMPLETE BODY WORK
“OUR STAFF AND QUALITY OF WORK MAKE THE DIFFERENCE” IT’S YOUR RIGHT TO CHOOSE YOUR REPAIR FACILITY. CALL US FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
AUTOMOTIVE FINISHES ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FOR A GREENER TOMORROW
512-365-3614 1508 W. 2nd Street • Taylor Richard Rumley-Manager
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 5
Welcome to East WilCo.
N
ow 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 the rapidly growing Austin area, callers must dial all 10 digits of the phone number, even if it’s a local call. No need to dial a 1 or 0 first – just dial 512 and the number. If you forget, you’ll hear a recording reminding you and the call won’t go through.
If you’re looking for a place to live, there are several real estate agencies serving both Taylor and the surrounding areas. The following among them are: REAL ESTATE COMPANIES • 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.cornerstonerealestate.com • Keller Williams (512) 439-3698 116 W Second St. #101 www.jorgensonrealestate.com/area/taylor/ • Patschke and Patschke Real Estate LLC (512) 365-1905 205 N. Main www.patschkeproperties.com • RE/MAX Associates Group (512) 365-8563 906 N. Main www.associatesreg.com • Terra Properties, Inc. (512) 365-5555 www.terraproperties.biz 6 • FYI 2020
HOME CONSTRUCTION • DR Horton Homes (512) 759-1235 • Nanco Homes (512) 365-1979 APARTMENT COMPLEXES • Main Street Commons 3700 N. Main www.apartmentsintaylortx.com (512) 352-6068 • Arbors of Taylor 201 Highland Dr. www.arborsoftaylor.com (512) 365-8571 • Burnett Place 405 Sloan St. www.burnettplace.com (512) 365-2500 • Lake View Apartments 800 Mallard Lane 512-365-3474 • Mallard Run Apartments 1000 Mallard Lane (512) 352-8660 • Sunny Lane Apartments 2700 Sunny Lane 512-269-1065 • Taylor Square Apartments 1005 Cotton Bowl www.hamiltonvalley.com (512) 352-8753 WELCOME TO EAST WILCO
• Tejas Apartments 2106 Holly Springs (512) 365-6400 • The Gardens of Taylor 319 Sloan St. #107 (512) 352-7620 • Heritage Oaks Apartments 213 Debus (512) 352-4217 U-HAUL AFFILIATES • Taylor Hutto Self Storage 4105 W. 2nd St. (512) 365-1450 • Pfluger Texaco 209 W. 2nd St. (512) 352-2310 • Taylor Inspection Station 2401 N. Main St. (512) 271-7923 MOVING EQUIPMENT • Ewald Kubota 3707 E. Fourth St. (512) 352-9889 • Main Street Rental, 1811 N. Main St. (512) 352-7368
Is your laptop running slow? Are you constantly frustrated with your computer? Having trouble with malware? DREAM DESIGNS COMPUTER SERVICES has the Home & Office Solutions to get your system back up to par!
Timmy & Nancy Talley, Owners
(512) 365-1979
nancohomes@att.net | www.nancohomesinc.com
· Virus and Spyware Cleanup · Operating System Reload · Network Installation · Custom Built Computers · Refurbished Computers · Hardware and Soft ware Upgrades · Soft ware, New and Used Parts · Data Recovery • Security Cameras
WE DO IT ALL! FOR A FRACTION OF THE PRICE SINCE 2001 (512) 352-8605 · (512) 771-3279
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Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM • Sat: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM • Sun: Closed
14150 State Highway 79 • Taylor, TX 76574
512.218.5300 • 877.435.2206 www.nylemaxwellcjd.com
S H O P I N T O W N . . . B U Y I N TAY L O R Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 7
WILLIAMSON COUNTY LEADERSHIP Williamson County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country! Located in Central Texas just north of the state capitol in Austin, Williamson County is gaining in its reputation as an exceptional place to live. Physically, the eastern part of the county is level black land soil and the western part 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 sturdy pioneers. Today, the county is a center for agribusiness, education, and hightech 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 one of the most desirable places to live and work in the United States. The county was organized in 1848 and named for Robert M. Williamson, pioneer leader and veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto.
RUSS BOLES Commissioner Pct. 4 321 Ed Schmidt Boulevard Suite #200 Hutto, Texas 78634 Phone: (512) 943-3761 Email: russ.boles@ wilco.org
CYNTHIA LONG TERRY COOK Commissioner Pct. 1 Commissioner Pct. 2 1801 East Old Settlers 350 Discovery Blvd., Blvd. Suite 201 Suite #110 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Round Rock, TX 78664 Phone: (512) 260-4280 Phone: (512) 244-8610 Email: clong@ Email: commissioner1@ wilco.org wilco.org
VALERIE COVEY Commissioner Pct. 3 Georgetown Annex 100 Wilco Way, CO201 Georgetown, TX, 78626 Phone: (512) 943-3370 Email: comm3@ wilco.org
8 • FYI 2020
WELCOME TO EAST WILCO
BILL GRAVELL County Judge Williamson County Historic Courthouse 710 S. Main Street, Ste. 101 Georgetown, TX 78626 Phone: (512) 943-1550 Fax: (512) 943-1662
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 8
FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO
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WILLIAMSON COUNTY CONSTABLE PRECINCT 4 Marty Ruble 412 Vance Street, Suite 3 Taylor, Texas 76574 Taylor Phone: (512) 352-4181 Metro Phone: (512) 238-2181 Fax: (512) 352-4186 Constable Ruble: mruble@wilco.org Chief Olson: brian.olson@wilco.org Lieutenant Jakubowski: cjakubowski@ wilco.org
EY RD
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 4 Judge Stacy Hackenberg 211 W Sixth St Taylor, Texas 76574 Phone: (512) 352-4155 Fax: (512) 352-4194 Juror Information Line: (512) 352-4820 Office Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
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WILLIAMSON COUNTY ATTORNEY Dee Hobbs Williamson County Justice Center County Attorney’s Office 405 M.L.K., Suite 229 Georgetown, Texas 78626 Phone: (512) 943-1111 Fax: (512) 943-1120 Office Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday
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WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Robert Chody Williamson County, Texas 508 S. Rock St. Georgetown, Tx 78626 Phone: (512) 943-1300 Non-Emergency: (512) 864-8282 Fax: (512) 943-1444
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Williamson County Precinct 4 Williamson County, Texas WELCOME TO EAST WILCO
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DISCLAIMER - PLEASE READ: This map is for general planning purposes only. The basemap conforms to National Map Accuracy Standards in unobstructed areas. Williamson County makes no warranty, representation or guarantee as to the content, sequence, accuracy, timeliness or completeness of any of the database information or spatial locations depicted. Furthermore, all warranties on merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are hereby disclaimed. In no event shall Williamson County be liable to the recipient or any other party for damages of any type, including but not limited to incidental, consequential or exemplary damages arising out of the use or inability to use these materials.
MAP DATE: 4/23/2020
I Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 9
MAP AUTHOR: GIS Staff MAP CONTACT: GIS Staff Williamson County 301 SE Inner Loop Suite 105 Georgetown, TX 78627 gis@wilco.org
City of Taylor
T
he 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, which means that 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 at a later date. 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 Gerald.adnerson@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 Mayor Pro Tem dwayne.ariola@taylortx.gov CITY HALL Address: 400 Porter St., Taylor Phone: (512) 352-3675 Website: www.taylortx.gov Facebook page: City of Taylor Texas 10 • FYI 2020
CITY ADMINISTRATION • City Manager: Brian LaBorde, 512352-3677 400 Porter St. • Assistant City Manager: Jeffery Jenkins, 512-352-6475, ext. 34 • Executive Assistant: Rocio Lopez, (512) 363-3774 OTHER DEPARTMENTS LOCATED AT CITY HALL • Public Works Director: Jim Gray (512) 365-7669 • City Clerk: Diana Barker, (512) 3523676 • Public Information Officer: Stacy Osborn, (512) 352-5448 • Taylor Main Street: Jan Harris, (512) 352-3463 • Finance Department: Jeffery Wood, (512) 352-5997 • Human Resources: Kim Peterson, (512) 352-5993 • Senior Planner: Shelly Shelton, (512) 365-3863 • Code Enforcement Officer: Omar Lopez, (512) 352-3675 • Utility Billing Department Manager: Nicole Luna (512) 352-2066 Office hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday CITY OF TAYLOR
through Friday. Online payments: www.taylortx.gov CITY DEPARTMENTS LOCATED OFF-SITE • Water/Waster Water, 1201 N. Main St. Interim Superintendent: Mark Daurity (512) 352-3251 or (512) 352- 2412 • Parks and Recreation, 1424 N. Main St. Superintendent: Larry Foos (512) 352-5818 • Municipal Court, 109 W. Fifth St. Judge: Randall Pick, (512) 759-4209 City Attorney: Ted Hejl, (512) 352-5977 Court is held on Thursday 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 801 Vance St. Director: Karen Ellis (512) 352-3434 or (512) 365-2235 Website:www.taylor.lib.tx.us Hours: Monday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
EMERGENCY SERVICES Taylor Police Department 500 S. Main St. (512) 352-5551 Wesite: www.taylortx.gov Metro: (512) 365-2733 Chief of Police: Henry Fluck, 512-352-5552 Taylor Fire Department Main Station, 304 E 3rd St. (512) 352-6992 Website: www.ci.taylor.tx.us:/24/fire Fire Chief/Emergency Management Coordinator: Daniel Baum Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal: Bobby Copeland Administrative Assistant: Michele Vrabel Northwest Station, 705 NW Carlos G. Parker Blvd. (512) 352-5232 Taylor Animal Control 500 S. Main St., Taylor (512) 352-5552 Website: www.ci.taylor.tx.us Animal Control Officer: Sandy Perio Volunteer Coordinator: Susan Davis You may contact Beth Wilkes, Assistant to the Chief of Police, about any animal matter at any time at (512) 352-5552 or 365-2509 (metro).
TAYLOR MUNICIPAL AIRPORT 303 Airport Rd. Suite 1, Taylor Airport Manager: David Cornelius 512-352-5747 512-352-8211
Taylor Municipal Airport is on Highway 79 North West of Taylor. The Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division has classified the airport as a general utility business service airport.
IN EMERGENCY, PLEASE CALL 9-1-1
Schmidt Insurance Agency A hometown tradition of honesty & trust Located in Historic Downtown Hutto
You Won’t Believe Your Eyes!
115-A East Street | PO Box 30 | Hutto, TX 78634 P: 512-759-3277 | F: 512-759-2830 drschmidt@earthlink.net www.schmidtinsuagency.com
Vision Care Plans Welcome
Bring us your Favorite Frames and let us make new lenses.
Dennis Schmidt and Rosemary Schmidt
TAYLOR • 601 Mallard Ln. • 512-352-3016 • 512-365-3027 ROUND ROCK • 2120 Round Rock Ave. • 512-388-1333 optdesign@aol.com
CITY OF TAYLOR
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 11
East WilCo EXPERIENCE
www.trouvailleantiques.com
Homestyle Cooking Family Atmosphere Professional Catering Jodie Wolf, Owner
216 E Hwy 79, Thrall, Texas 76578 512-365-9554 HOURS: Mon.10am -2pm, Tues. thru Fri. 10am – 9pm Closed Saturday and Sunday
4th & Main in Downtown Taylor Tues-Fri 12-5 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-4 12-4
512-352-5568
Tayloroffice305@gmail.com
SPECIALISTS IN CUSTOM DESIGN & REPAIR
Our Jewelers, Robert Bland & Mark Ballard have over 100 Combined Experience! 304 N. Main St (next to The Howard Theatre) In Downtown Taylor, TX 512-352-5097 • Open Tuesday – Friday 9-5
Office Supplies, Trophies, Quality Printing, Copies, Fax, Scanning, Laminating, FedEx & UPS Shipping
305 N. Main • Taylor, Texas 76574 Fax 512-352-9571
Unique Celebrations
Jewelry • Gifts • Decor • Floral arrangements for all occasions - delivery to Taylor daily Silks • Arrangements • Food Items and More 129 N.Evie Bartlett • 254-527-3324 Hours: 8-3 Mon-Fri • 8-12 Sat
12 • FYI 2020 2020
EXPERIENCE EAST WILCO
East WilCo EXPERIENCE
Texas Bay Seafood & Steak
DRIVE WITH BEST
409 W. Front Street Ste. 230
We offer Drivers Education for Teens and Adults,Online courses, and we offer the DPS Road Test.
Hutto, Texas 78634 512-846-4125 huttodrivingschool.com M-F 1PM-8PM • SAT 9AM-2PM SUN BY APPT ONLY
Appetizers • Soups & Salads • Grilled Entrées • Fried Seafood New Orleans Style Entrées • Hamburgers • Po Boys • Special Crabb & Fresh Boiled Crawfish dishes • Steak Combos w/Shrimp or Lobster ter 200 W. Lake Dr. • Taylor • 512-352-6889 889 9 HOURS: MON.-SAT. 11AM TO 10PM • SUN. 11AM TO 9PM PM
Boutique
100 E 2nd St. Taylor, TX 512.352.5518
Connect With Us www.thelighthouseboutiquetexas.com IG@thelighthousetaylortexas #thelighthouseboutique Facebook The Light House Boutique @thelighthouseboutiquetexas
105 West 5th | Taylor | Texas | 512-595-5269
EXPERIENCE EAST WILCO
Your Guide Guide to to Eastern Eastern Williamson Williamson County County •• 13 13 Your
PARKS AND RECREATION TAYLOR PARKS All Taylor city parks have free Wi-Fi. POOLS Currently, all pools and splash pads are closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The hours listed are typical normal hours during the year. The city of Taylor offers two pools and one splash pad for residents and area visitors to enjoy. There are no public lockers at either pool. These pools are: Murphy Park 1600. Veterans Dr There is a designated lap lane at this city pool, open during regular hours. Regular Hours Tuesday - Saturday noon to 8 p.m. Sunday 1 to 8 p.m. Monday - Closed End of Summer Hours Saturdays Open noon to 8 p.m. Sundays 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Monday through Friday The pool is typically open for Memorial Day and Labor Day from noon to 8 p.m. Pool closes for the season after Labor Day. Pool Admission Fees Children under age 3: Free admission Children ages 4 to 12: $2 each Adults/Children over age 12: $3 each Seniors (ages 60+): $2 each Family Pass (30 Admissions) - $45 Family Pass (60 Admissions) - $90 14 • FYI 2020
Robinson Park Pool & Splash Pad 206 S. Dolan Ave. Repairs are needed at Robinson Park Pool. Please stay tuned for updates as to an opening date. There are no public lockers at either pool. 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 CITY OF TAYLOR
30 minutes after the last sight of thunder or lightning. The City of Taylor reserves the right to remove a participant/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 flow before or after the splash pad’s open hours. RECREATION FACILITIES The Taylor park system includes seven parks and open space areas encompassing more than 300 acres. • Murphy Park: located near the intersection of Hwy. 95 and Lake Drive in central Taylor, Murphy Park encompasses about 65 acres including a swimming pool, a large pavilion for public rental, a miniature golf course operated by the Taylor Lions Club, children’s playgrounds, picnic tables, lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, a sand volleyball court and the Murphy Park Aquatic Center.
• Heritage Square: located downtown, this park will include a Memorial Garden, an amphitheater, pavilion and splash pad. • Pierce Park: Adjacent to Heritage Square, third and Porter streets. Includes 14,000 square feet of skatable surface, shade areas. Suitable for skate boards or BMX bikes. • Taylor Regional Park and Sports Complex: Taylor Regional Park and Sports Complex: on Carlos G. Parker Boulevard in north Taylor, this 75-acre park 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 and restrooms and parking for 650 vehicles. The fully lighted park also 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 are perfect for outdoor education. The park is located at 210 Carlos Parker Blvd. in Taylor. For more information, call (512) 365-7669.
• Bull Branch Park: in northwest Taylor, Bull Branch Park has a large stocked fishing pond and a pavilion for public use. It also contains a playscape, disc golf course and a section of the city’s seven-mile hike and bike trail.
• Fannie Robinson Park: in southeast Taylor, Robinson Park has a swimming pool, splash pad, a softball field, playscape, basketball courts and picnic areas and a large pavilion available for public rental.
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l town IENCE
Texas has reeled from the life-altering threat of the COVID-19 virus. By Martha Bowles
HOW WILCO BATTLED COVID-19
S
elf-quarantine, lockdowns and the revision of business practices have changed day to day living. For those in small towns, suburbs and outlying areas, everything from shopping, paying bills, working and being with family have been affected in surprising ways. Some have struggled, but some have found new ways serve their customers, maintain their businesses and stay close emotionally if not physically. Some have even benefitted from the obstacles put in the way with renewed vigor and creative problem solving by way of technology. Daily shopping for basic necessities has been drastically altered. Most local retailers have made the jump from patrons inside their stores to alternate methods of delivering goods. Grocery stores and big box retailers now provide curbside service. One can shop online, pay and simply drive to the store where a masked employee packs the shopper’s vehicle. Some prefer to select produce and other items themselves, and many stores wipe down and sanitize carts. Senior citizens and other high-risk groups are often given priority with designated times first thing in the day when businesses have prepared overnight for optimal cleanliness. Shorter hours and early closings allow stores to focus more on cleaning and disinfecting, and signage shops have done a booming business printing CDC recommendations and posters denoting the need for masks or face coverings when entering. Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 17
And it’s more than just grocery stores and drugstores that offer drive-thru services. JD Gins, co-owner and co-founder of Texas Beer Company on Main Street, says that one of ways the brewery and others have stayed afloat is using a pickup system “because we are technically a manufacturer. Early on, breweries in general we were on the list of essential businesses. I mean, everybody wants their beer,” he chuckled. “We had started doing our beer to go from our production brewery from down the street, but now we can let people order either online or by calling and have it ready for them. I don’t think, at least I hope, that doesn’t change. We want to keep serving our customers in any way we can.” Restaurants have switched gears as well and begun in-car service. Drive-thrus are packed as dining rooms remain closed. One local barbecue restaurant continues to provide outdoor seating, but a sign on the door directs folks to honk for walkout service. Door to door food service options like Favor and DoorDash have made their way into areas that previously only had pizza delivery, so the neighborhoods and their residents have found ways to keep themselves and their families fed. Technology for consumers has grown in use, popularity and convenience. Businesses have understood that since the vast alterations due to the COVID-19 virus, reaching customers, clients and even running house18 • FYI 2020
holds has become largely dependent on high-tech devices like laptops, smartphones and even televisions in new ways. One example of embracing technology is TexFit Training, a strength and group workout gym on Main Street in Taylor. TexFit was completely shuttered as the regulations required closures of “non-essential” businesses. However, owner Jamie Gilliam had already developed an app that allowed members to access online group classes, including cardio, yoga and strength training. Although the app had been created and was in light use, only, the lockdown precipitated its broad release. “When we had to shut down, we just quickly adapted, and started running virtual classes all the time,” said Gilliam. “I just, I don’t know. I just kind of credit God for just allowing me to- I don’t know, give me the idea. I was kind of at a loss for what to do. I had already been kind of doing some online training and I feel like I just prayed because I didn’t know what to do. I feel like he just led us into this direction, which has really opened up a whole new business in a sense for us so that we now have a lot of different options and a lot of different opportunities in the future. So now we can decide what our future looks like and we’re not just tied to just a brick-and-mortar gym. But we have clients worldwide now and all over the country too.” In moving forward online even after
COVID-19, Jamie anticipates the changes becoming a real benefit. “I think that it has helped us see the opportunity to serve people in other ways, especially people who may not be able to come to a gym, either because of COVID or because they’re not as mobile, or maybe they are sick and have limitations that don’t allow them to be around people,” said Gilliam with enthusiasm. “It allows us to be able to reach everybody, in their homes or when they’re traveling, if they’re on the go. They have the ability to use our app and do their workouts and then they always have a direction to help them stay healthy.” Jamie sees it as a boon to business and a testament to creativity. While the lure of shopping without a crush of people can be inviting, the reality is businesses are struggling to keep doors open with all the required CDC cleaning techniques and resulting in shorter hours. However, one local storefront, the LightHouse Boutique on West 5th Street in Taylor, opened their doors just as industry shut down. Carrying boutique clothing, jewelry and even retro inspired snacks and drinks, the shop is a quaint rehabbed and refurbished storefront in the heart of Taylor. Passing their final inspection in early March, April Rector and her husband Matt opened using a temporary permit, and then “everything shut down,” she says, as non-essential businesses were closed.
CDC regulations and procedures haven’t affected the Light House. “We don’t have any precedence. I mean, in reality we don’t really do anything differently than we would have, because I am pretty much a clean freak,” laughed April. One of the benefits of limiting the number of people within venues has been a more hometown feel for the most popular stops. Rarely is there a crowd or a line in a small town business, even at the tax office or the utility company. However, now that the number of patrons in a location at any given time is limited, the shops are more bare and the restaurants practically empty. “We didn’t even open until the state allowed 50%. When it was 25%, we kept the tables on the sidewalk open, but that meant we didn’t have the extra costs of air conditioning or the TVs running and so it was something we could do.” says Gins. A city ordinance that allowed open containers in the downtown area helped customers enjoy what the brewery had to offer and stroll to antique stores, the cigar bar and more. This has helped businesses like TBC and other local hot spots gather buyers. When more opportunities to serve more customers came into play, the venue opened the indoor spaces back up. “Technically we can seat 50% of our occupancy, so we moved these tables apart. It’s working, but sometimes it’s tough to be open without enough people,” says Gins. TBChad to remove the barstools at the vintage bartop. “Our regulars miss our bar seating.” Gins mentions, wistfully. He and his partners are looking forward to being back at full capacity as soon as state laws allow. The staff currently wears masks while working, as others in most stores in the area. Face coverings protect both employees and the customer from the COVID19 virus, which is delivered in droplets from the respiratory system of the virus carrier. Many times, shoppers are masked even in the relative safety of their own car when receiving curbside service. Asked if the shop sees a lot of customers wearing masks, April responded thoughtfully. “Maybe, but I can count them on one hand,” April said. “We (her and Matt) wore
masks because we wanted to respect the public and feel it out, but we really follow the lead of our customers. Our customers — the feedback we kept getting is that they desperately want to feel normal, and I can relate to that. When we first opened, we had signs in the windows, and on the door, and then one day we simply removed them. People want a place that is peaceful and feels a little bit normal and a little bit fun, and we can give that.” Along with smaller crowds and signs with CDC regulations and recommendations, masks are being worn in many places. Drug stores sell disposable masks at the front counter alongside gum and gift cards. As churches begin to open for in-person worship, parishioners and clergy don facemasks to help prevent the spread of the virus. Taylor High School graduation ceremonies required masks along with cap and gown, and the U.S. Post Office asks that visitors have a face covering to enter. In the spirit of small town helpfulness, organizations, individuals and companies made manufacturing adjustments to create these masks, some from fabric and elastic, others from simple bandanas or wide fabric headbands. The sew-savvy citizens in the area create them in their homes and ask for donations to cover the cost of the fabric, but mainly give them away. Donations of handmade masks to first responders and health professionals have topped the priority list, but large bundles have been made and delivered to nursing homes, prisons and veterans organizations. The prevalence of social distancing, staying six feet apart and having one’s smile covered has challenged people to find ways to stay close emotionally. Co-workers have joined each other in group video calls and even happy hours. Supervisors record daily updates delivered by video or live stream information and instruction to employees carrying on from their homes. Local churches have used creative ways
in helping the community gather for worship. Some churches like the First United Methodist Church of Taylor broadcasts their Sunday services, complete with a greeter opening the door and directing the camera to a pew. Members are treated to a full service, given to an empty church but streamed directly into homes. Some congregations even produce children’s services on such platforms as YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook and their own websites. The church world is completely accessible if you have the technology to receive the signal. Members can send their tithes and offerings through secure online services. The effort to feel normal is a constant drive. On special days like birthdays or Mothers Day, the separation can be more poignant. Oasis Church celebrated moms by creating a parking lot worship service. Staff handed out gifts and spent special time with each mom in a sort of drive-up service to help them feel loved and appreciated. “The Bible says to honor those who deserve to be honored” said Pastor Mary Flores. The worship team played music on the asphalt in front of the building, in accordance with social distancing, and Flores preached from a pulpit under the awning of the building’s entrance. ”Despite the current pandemic, we celebrated Mother’s Day in style,” said Flores. “Mom’s were all smiles as they were recognized with gifts and prayers from the church congregation.” The resilience of the small towns and the communities full of people who have chosen to live farther from the hub of a city has only become stronger during the COVID19 pandemic. As technology advances and becomes more reachable to each person, staying close in a time of separation has not just become easier, but more vital. Someday, people will be able to shake hands again and enjoy a cup of coffee with a neighbor without tape marks on the floor denoting how far away they must stand. Soon, all will be back to “normal,” but in the meantime, the communities press forward, use their time and energies creatively and hope for the best. Technology keeps improving, apps and systems are being developed and more folks are learning how to maintain relationships and business during the pandemic.
THE SMALL TOWN PERSEVERES.
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 19
Calendar of Events Monthly Events G21 CAR SHOW G21 Car Show is on the fourth Sunday of every month beginning at about 8 a.m. It will be held 3100 N. Main Street. Several different charities benefit from it throughout the year. SECOND SATURDAY Join us on the second Saturday of the month for events in our parks and all over town. Specials and bargains in our downtown shops and cool drinks at our “rest stops.” THIRD MONDAY The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce hosts a luncheon at Sirloin Stockade the third Monday of each month. The topics vary but usually focus on Taylor issues. Open members and non-members. THIRD THURSDAY The Third Thursday of every month, our downtown shops stay open until 8 p.m. 120 Art Gallery opens a new exhibit and music fills Texas Beer Company, Taylor Station and other venues around the area. TAYLOR AREA FARMER’S MARKET 20 • FYI 2020
May through October — Local area farmers sell fresh produce at corner of Fifth and Main Street 3-6 p.m. every Monday and Friday.
room at the central administration office, 3101 N. Main Street. Agendas are posted to the school’s website the Friday prior to the meeting.
YOUR GOVERNMENT WEEKLY CIVIC Taylor City Council CLUB MEETINGS Due to the The Taylor City Taylor Lions Club Council meets Every Friday at CORONAVIRUS the second Noon at Sirloin pandemic, many events and fourth Stockade were either canceled or Thursdays of the month, 6 Taylor postponed. We have listed p.m. at City Rotary the activities, and when they Hall, 400 Club typically happen. To find out Porter St. Every Agendas are Thursdays at more information, contact the posted to the noon at Sirloin organizer of each event. We city’s website Stockade have also added a list Tuesday prior. Meetings are Taylor of events that have streamed live Kiwanis Club changed due to from the city’s Every Wednesday COVID-19. website. You may noon at Sirloin sign up for notifications Stockade about this and other Taylor boards and commissions on the THURSDAY homepage of the city’s website, ci.tayInterested in local and college sports? lor.tx.us. Check out “Around the Water Cooler,” a lively and opinionated show produced Taylor School Board by the Taylor Press. New shows every Taylor school trustees meet 7 p.m. the Thursday at 11 a.m. Streamed live on third Monday of the month, in the board Facebook @GoTaylorTx CITY OF TAYLOR
January MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MARCH AND PROGRAM Begins in Robinson Park at 9 a.m. and ends at City Hall. Following the march is a program that begins at 10 a.m. CHAMBER & COMMUNITY AWARDS BANQUET 6 p.m. Chair’s reception begins this evening that includes dinner, an introduction of Chamber leadership and 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. 5 p.m. Taylor Lions Club hosts a chili supper at the SPJST Hall east of town. Price is $10 per person. For more information, call 512-626-1831 RUN FOR THE ROSES 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 Moody Museum is at the corner of Ninth and Talbot Streets, Taylor. To learn more, call 512-365-7396 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 (circa1901). There will also be food and drink for guests to enjoy. Tickets will be available at the door.
TAYLOR KITE FESTIVAL Held in mid-March, held at Memorial Field in Murphy Park, the event features booths, arts, crafts and kits of all kinds. Sponsored by the city of Taylor and the Taylor Press. Contact Larry Foos at (512) 352-5818 for more information.
and Faded Crew is held in Fannie Robinson Park. There are five hunts for different ages from 0 to adults.
EASTER EGG HUNTS City Easter Egg hunt at Heritage Square. Children are divided into two age groups, ages 1 through and ages 4 through 6. One parent or adult must accompany each child. Contact Jan Harris at 512-352-3463 or email Jan. Harris@taylortx.gov.
VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE Deadline to register to vote for the City Council and School Board elections across the county. Day is the first Saturday in May.
The annual Easter Egg hunt at Sirloin Stockade adds 1,000 eggs each year. At the event there is a DJ along with bounce houses, balloon artists, face-painters and train rides. All of the activities are free for guests. Mega Egg Hunt hosted by the Braided
BLACK HISTORY MONTH Special programs sponsored by the O.L. Price Ex-Student’s Assoc. at various Taylor schools.
MARCH
TAYLOR HOME AND GARDEN EXPO Taylor Band Boosters host an annual Garden Expo. Indoor and outdoor booths are available. The Expo features a hamburger lunch, live music, plants, crafts, home decor and unique items. 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.
MAY
SPRING HEALTH FAIR At the Taylor ISD Events Center, 3101 N. Main, for face painting, balloon animals, door prizes, free healthy snacks, fresh popcorn, and other fun surprises.
BLACKLAND PRAIRIE DAYS First Saturday in May. Live talent, food, arts & crafts, children’s activities in downtown Taylor beginning at 10 a.m. Contact Jan Harris at 512-352-3463 or Jan.Harris@taylortx.gov for more information.
TAYLOR PUBLIC LIBRARY During Spring break, the library will host movies, crafts all week and a truck petting zoo.
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come out and celebrate local legend Bill Pickett. 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.
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 Street, Granger Lakefest includes a kolache sale, parade, arts and crafts, a barbecue cook off, children’s activities, an auction, a car/ truck/tractor/motorcycle show and horseshoe tournament. Enjoy a variety of food and drink, live music during the day and a dance in the evening. Call Granger City Hall at (512) 8592755. FIESTA AMISTAD Fiesta Amistad has grown into Central Texas’ largest Hispanic two-day event. Held on Memorial Day weekend at the Old Settlers Association, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd. on Hwy 79, east of Round Rock, the festival sponsored by Round Rock’s El Amistad Club features live music, plenty of food and family entertainment. Find out more at www.elamistadclub.com
JUNE TAYLOR INTERNATIONAL BBQ COOK-OFF Second Saturday in June. Barbecue Bob returns to the shade of Murphy Park as area barbecue cookers compete in one of the state’s most prestigious cook offs. Get over to the park Friday evening for a night of music and family fun under the pavilion then hurry back Saturday to see which of the cookers win for showmanship, beef, chicken and pork. Watch @TaylorBBQcookoff on Facebook for details. JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION AND BILL PICKETT DAY The Blackshear/O.L. Price Ex-Student Association hosts a Juneteenth celebration in Fannie Robinson Park. The event includes food, music and fellowship. It is also a time for the community to
WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S POSSE RODEO Sanctioned by the Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association, this rodeo includes some of the top cowboys from all over the US and is sure to entertain. The rodeo is held annually at the Show Barn in San Gabriel Park, 415 E. Morrow Street. Find out more at www.georgetownrodeo.com or by calling (512) 966-9778.
JULY TAYLOR’S 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS This event will be held in the afternoon and evening July 4 at Murphy Park, 1600 Veterans Drive. The patriotic event brings people from all over to a celebration in Murphy Park. The swimming pool is open. Live music at the American Legion Hall. Food vendors. Cap the evening off with a tremendous fireworks display.
SWIMMING! Taylor City Pools open Memorial Day weekend — Murphy Park Aquatic Center and Robinson Pool, open for the summer. COMMUNITY MEMORIAL SERVICE Memorial Day — Join Taylor-area veterans for a moving tribute at Murphy Park Liberty Gardens, 1600 Veterans Dr.
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Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 23
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TAYLOR PRESS ANNUAL 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT Usually the second weekend in July. The Taylor Press hosts an annual 3-on-3 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 information, call the Taylor Press at (512) 352-8535. TAYLOR RODEO Since 1950 Taylor Rodeo Association has proudly produced the Taylor Annual Rodeo in the home town of Bill Pickett. The crowds that come to this yearly event have grown because of the enthusiasm and the excitement, but most of all for the entertainment they receive. It is one of the biggest and best small-town rodeos anywhere.
AUGUST KIDFISH AT BULL BRANCH PARK. Usually in late August before the start of school; Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and fishing starts at 9 a.m. Free to children under age. MICHELLE’S HOT PEEPS BEAT CC 5K/1K Join us for this regional event benefitting the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation while bringing awareness to this insidious, silent killer. Help us fund research to find the cause, detection, and treatments which
work. Let’s get individuals, families, and friends all out to the starting line on race day for a great time celebrating life and family. This is a chip-timed 5K Fun Run/Walk and Kids’ Dash (Kids’ of all ages!).
SEPTEMBER LABOR DAY HOLIDAY Area schools and government offices will be closed. 9/11 MEMORIAL The First Baptist church of Taylor and the Taylor Fire Departments host a march through downtown then a memorial service at Heritage Square to honor the emergency workers who died during the 9/11 attacked on New York City and Washington DC. TAYLOR CHAMBER BUSINESS AND JOB EXPO Presented by the Taylor Chamber of commerce and the Taylor Economic Development Corp. at the Williamson County Exposition Center, this event includes booths, information and exhibits from an array of area businesses and organizations. A resume workshop and career and job fairs will be held to round out the experience. Call 512-352-6364 or visit taylorchamber.org for more information. Free to the public. SPJST BARBECUE COOK OFF The Taylor SPJST Lodge #29’s Annual Barbecue Cook-off. Barbecue cooks from across Central Texas submit entries in a variety of categories, including pork ribs, brisket, chicken, jackpot beans, cook’s choice, dessert and even best rig. The event features a silent auction and two days of live music and dancing. To find out more, visit www.taylorchamber.org or call (512) 365-8485.
CITY OF TAYLOR
OCTOBER GOOD LIFE TAYLOR Good Life Taylor, Texas raises money for specially-selected community improvement projects. The fair focuses on outdoors, family activities including park use, pets, home gardening and backyard poultry keeping. Enjoy a quiet, quaint, but quick run. Designed with input from competitive runners, our course zips you through North Taylor with multiple changes in scenery on a flat route. Start and finish in Bull Branch Park, but you’ll also experience a bit of our countryside and Taylor living. Contact Julie Rydell at 512-294-1972 or visit http://www. goodlifetaylor.com for more information. FALL FESTIVAL The Fall Festival features free flu shots, activities and fun for everyone. The event also includes a tiny animal petting zoo, farmers market, bounce house, face painting, giveaways, music and healthy living activities for all ages. For more information visit www.lifeparkcenter.com/events. HUTTO OLDE TYME DAYS Go back in time at Hutto’s Olde Tyme Days downtown along historic East Street. Arts, crafts, games, a parade and musical performances have made this old-fashioned festival a family favorite for nearly 30 years. For details, visit www.huttooldetymedays. com or contact the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce, (512) 759-4400. MAIN STREET CAR SHOW The last weekend in October. When the F-1 tours Austin’s Circuit of the Americas in late October, Taylor celebrates! Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 25
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Main Street begins at 7 p.m. Must register for the parade in advance. Largest parade in the area. MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS BAZAAR City Hall Auditorium — Event will take place inside the auditorium and outside in the parking lot. Shop for holiday gifts from local artisans.
Taylor’s Historic Main Street hosts its own F-1 car show sponsored by the City of Taylor. In addition to cars, find an automotive art exhibition, prizes and a whole lot more! COUPLAND CHOO CHOO FEST The annual Choo Choo Fest will be held Sunday, October 4, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., at St. Peter’s Church of Coupland. This event raises funds to maintain Coupland’s historic Depot and caboose and features a barbecue dinner, silent auction, bake sale, and free rides for the whole family on the Kiddie Express train. DUCKS UNLIMITED BANQUET Ducks Unlimited, established in 1937, is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing water fowl habitats. The largest percentage of Ducks Unlimited’s conservation expenditure is derived from local fund-raising banquets. These dinners are fun, social events attended by men, women, and children who really care about the future of their environment. For information and tickets, contact John M. McDonald, (512) 365-3528.
The carnival will have rides, pig races, a petting zoo and a meet the mustang tent. There will also be games such as cornhole, washers, nostalgic games and more. The event will also feature vendors, a farmer’s market and a wine and beer garden. SPOOKTACULAR On Halloween, Oct. 31, ghosts and goblins haunt the downtown square in a festival that features costume contests, games a Ghost Walk and fun!
DECEMBER PARADE OF LIGHTS First weekend in December. Travel down
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT THE MOODY MUSEUM All local school children from kindergarten through fourth grade are invited to the museum to handcraft Christmas ornaments which they will then take home with them. All children should be accompanied by a parent and it is a beautiful time to see the home decorated as it might have been when the Moody family lived there. Many families pose for Christmas photos in front of the tree. NORTHEAST FORK Northeast Fork Fest is an annual tasting event and artisan market in celebration of local flavor. Over a dozen brewers and local winemakers sample their seasonal finest alongside tasty collaborations between area farm-to-table chefs and Blackland farmers. Farm stands, makers, and resources for growers, brewers and cooks pack the festival with inspiration for lovers of home-grown food, beer, wine and Taylor-made hospitality. SANTA ON THE SQUARE Visit Santa Thursday-Saturdays in December, 6:30-8:30
WILLIAMSON COUNTY RODEO AND FAIR The rodeo will be a Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association and a United Professional Rodeo Association sanctioned event. It will be a traditional eight-event rodeo and will include bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, tie-down calf roping, ladies breakaway roping, team roping, ladies barrel racing and bull riding. There will also be special events such as kids’ mutton bustin’, a kids’ calf scramble and a drill team on horseback.
CITY OF TAYLOR
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 27
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WCLA LIVESTOCK SHOW & YOUTH FAIR Each year, hundreds of Williamson County FFA and 4-H members participate in the Williamson County Livestock Show. Funds raised through the junior livestock show auction go
directly to the youth to help offset the costs associated with raising livestock projects. The money students receive is reinvested in the community through the purchase of goods and services and portions are saved for furthering their education.
PILGRIMAGE TO BETHLEHEM AND LIVE NATIVITY Immanuel Lutheran Church, located at 411 CR 401 in Taylor, 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. Share the joy of shepherds hearing angels proclaim the good news of the Messiah’s birth, and join the wise men in paying homage to the newborn King. Free tours are every 20 minutes between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.
CHANGES DUE TO COVID-19 Swimming pools/splash pads – Closed Stiles Farm Field Day – Canceled Taylor Rodeo – Canceled Taylor Press 3-on-3 Tournament – Canceled Fourth of July – Fireworks still as planned. Car only, 10-mile parade – July 4 International Barbecue Cook-off – Aug. 22 Veteran’s Beer Run – Sept. 12 Local and County Elections – Nov. 3
CITY OF TAYLOR
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 29
• Graduation rates consistently surpas regional and state averages. • Early College High School provides the opportunity to earn a college associate degree while in high school at no cost to students. • Nationally Ranked Academic Decathlon • Nationally Ranked Color Guard • Leader In Me Initiative
TAYLOR IND
Phone: (512 30 • FYI 2020
ss • • e • es • o • n •
State Band Qualifiers State Ranked HI-Steppers New Athletic Complex Athletic State Qualifiers 4X State Girls Pole Vault Champ Career preparations with certifications in numerous areas including welding, culinary arts, automotive, health sciences and floral design.
• Every high school student issued a MacBook Air • Free and Tuition Based 4 year old pre-k • NEW: 3 year old pre-k • Parent and Community Involvement • Partnership with Boys and Girls Club
DEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
3101 N. Main St. • Taylor, TX 76574 2) 365-1391 • Fax: (512) 365-3800 • taylorisd.org
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 31
TAYLOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT gwilley@taylorisd.org Communications and Community Liaison: Tim Crow tcrow@taylorisd.org 512-365-1391 x1058 Textbook Coordinator & Community Services: Larry Robbins lrobbins@taylorisd.org 5 12-365-1391 x1052
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, Member andvolek@sbcglobal.net Place 3 — Cheryl Carter, Assistant Secretary stix5mom@yahoo.co Place 4 — Marco R. Ortiz, President mortiz721@aol.com Place 5 — Thomas Rohlack, Secretary rohlacks4@yahoo.com At Large — Daniel Philhower, Member danielphilhower@gmail.com At Large — Marilyn Tennill, Member mtennill76574@gmail.com TISD ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Superintendent: Keith Brown 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor 32 • FYI 2020
keith.brown@taylorisd.org Phone: (512) 365-1391 Fax: (512) 365-3800 Deputy Superintendent: Rodney Fausett rfausett@taylorisd.org Executive Assistant: Dellean Hartmann Chief Financial Officer: Lorine David ldavid@taylorisd.org Director of Federal Programs: Sandra Martinez (Also director of Title I and ELL Services) smartinez@taylorisd.org Chief Academic Officer: George Willey CITY OF TAYLOR
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 Community Services/Elections/ Communication Coordinator: Tim Crow Community Services and Elections are Larry Robbins, Communications Coordinator is Tim Crow 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: Jenni Cork Phone: (352) 2275 and (512) 365-7114 Enrollment: 306 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 $350 per month on a space-available basis. • Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2019 and must live within the Taylor ISD boundaries. Please call the campus at 512-3657114. Note: Pre-K for 3 year-olds is also now offered. Must qualify, tuition option not available for PK3. Just FYI: 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: Rene Duckworth rduckworth@taylorisd.org Phone: (512) 365-2278 Fax: (512) 365-2280 Enrollment: 592 MAIN STREET INTERMEDIATE (Fourth and fifth grades) 3101 N. Main Suite 105, Taylor Principal: Marcelina Cobb Phone: (512) 365-1999 Fax: (512) 365-85337345 Enrollment: 418
TAYLOR MIDDLE SCHOOL (Sixth through eighth grades) Address: 304 Carlos Parker Blvd., Taylor Principal: Chelsey Ellison Phone: (512) 365-2815 Fax: (512) 365-8589 Enrollment: 655 TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL (Ninth through 12th grades) Address: 355 FM 973; Taylor Principal: Andrew Maddox Phone: (512) 365-6326 Fax: (512) 365-1351 Enrollment: 824 Taylor ISD Athletics (512) 352-6326 Athletic Director: Robert Little rlittle@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 Principal: Ron Roth Phone: (512) 352-9596 Fax: (512) 365-148652- 5849 Enrollment: 185 Legacy Early College High School offers select students the opportunity to earn an Associate’s Degree while also earning a high school diploma. TAYLOR OPPORTUNITY CENTER 300 W. 9th St., Taylor Principal: Andrew Maddox TOC Coordinator: JP Hale Phone: (512) 365-8089 Fax: (512) 365-1058 EAST WILLIAMSON COUNTY HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER (EWCHEC) 516 N. Main St., Taylor Phone: (512) 365-7242 Web site: www.templejc.edu/Centers/ EWCHEC/Taylor Programs offered include associate of arts and associate of applied science CITY OF TAYLOR
degrees; certificates in programs for emergency medical technology, computer networking (CISCO), industrial technology, child development and more; Internet and telecourses; Pro-Engineer; classes in criminal justice, welding, environmental science and more. Temple College at Taylor’s Vocational Nursing Program has received full approval accreditation status with a commendation by the Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas. ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL 520 Washburn St., Taylor Principal/Head of School: Heidi Altman Phone: (512) 352-2313 or (512) 365-1431 Website: www.stmarytaylor.org St. Mary’s Catholic School serves PK3 - 12th grades in the Classical tradition. Educating for wisdom and virtue, centered on Christ, our teaching stimulates wonder and awe in children, so they become lifelong critical thinkers and learners. Our High School program is part of the renowned international Chesterton Schools Network and is the first in Texas and the southern United States. The curriculum is one of the most cohesive, content-rich educations in the world. St. Mary’s is in the Diocese of Austin and is dually accredited by AdvancEd/Cognia and TCCBED (a part of Texas Education Agency). St. Mary’s Catholic School was founded in 1896 by five Dominican Sisters and has been educating children of all faiths from Taylor and the surrounding area for over 124 years. St. Mary’s supports parents in their role as the primary educators of their children. Our rigorous classical training draws out of students their natural desire for wisdom and virtue. By fostering a love for truth, beauty, and goodness, we seek to form disciples of Jesus Christ, set free to realize their full potential by living joyfully in accordance with the truth revealed by God through nature and the Catholic Church. ST. PAUL CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER Phone: 512-352-2773 stpaulcdc@austin.rr.com St. Paul Lutheran Child Development Center is a daycare facility serving the greater Taylor area. Meeting the needs of the community and their children, St. Paul Lutheran CDC has created a safe place for parents to leave their children while they work. The CDC offers Pre-K 3 and 4 using Bible curriculum. The CDC is located at 401 West Seventh Street in Taylor. Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 33
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Taylor ISD is the District of Choice! TH JOHNSON ELEMENTERY SCHOOL
LEGACY EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL
• Age-appropriate learning environment that includes playbased learning, outdoor learning and exploratory science labs. • Social/emotional development (socials skills taught daily) • Growing Leaders with the 7 Habits (weekly leadership skills lessons) • Highly qualified teachers and aides in all classes • Pre-K for all 4 year olds (free for those who qualify, paid for others) • Literacy based
• Opportunity to Graduate from High School with an Associates of Arts Degree from Temple College. • Engineering I and Engineering II with the opportunity to gain credit from the University of Texas for a beginning Engineer class • AP Physics with the opportunity to gain credit from the University of Texas for Physics • Spanish taught through Angelo State University for 8 hours of college credit. • Clubs and Student Organizations include: Student Council, National Honor Society, Interact Club (Rotary Club for High School), BLADE Club, Chess Club, Coding Club, Art Club. • Service Learning for Seniors to provide students a way to give back to the community. • New Student Orientation: a three-day event in the summer to help new students blend into the Legacy Community.
NAOMI PASEMANN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • Naomi Pasemann Elementary is a Leader in Me school. From learning to be proactive, to putting first things first, Pasemann students are learning responsibility and strategies for success every day.
MAIN STREET INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL • Reading Counts focuses on developing reading comprehension skills. • Duck Math builds math fluency. • STEMSCOPES provides students with hands on science. • Empowering Writers builds strong writing skills through authentic writing opportunities.
TAYLOR MIDDLE SCHOOL • Strong fine arts programs that includes band, choir, theater arts, dance and art. • Academic UIL: placed 3rd in our region out of 11 schools • Offer challenging honors courses on all four core content areas of math, ELA, science and social studies • Offer courses for high school and CTE credit: Algebra, Spanish, College and Career Readiness • Partnership with E3 alliance and Raise Up Texas to increase student learning and staff effectiveness
TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL Career pathway courses offered: • Agriculture, Food & Natural Resource • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics • Business Management & Administration • Hospitality & Tourism • Health Science • Manufacturing • Arts, A/V Technology & Communications • Culinary students operate Top Flight, a licensed restaurant in Taylor High School, giving them the full restaurant experience as part of their training. • Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program for students to earn certification as a medical assistant upon graduation. • Each high school student is issued a MacBook Air. • Academic Decathlon consistently ranks in the state’s top three. Currently ranked 6th in the nation, medium school division. • Color Guard currently ranked #3 in nation, 2017 national champs. Community Involvement: MUNCH (mentor at lunch), Ambassadors, TEE Foundation
CITY OF TAYLOR
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 35
Taylor EDC &
TAYLOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PO Box 975 / 112 West 2nd St., Suite 203 Taylor, Texas 76574 p. (512) 352-4321 f. (512) 352-3252 www.tayloredc.org
The Taylor Economic Development Corporation serves as the catalyst to build wealth for Taylor, Texas. 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 (SBDC) 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. It also monitors and TEDC Board members are Chairman Kelly Cmerek, 1st Vice Chairman Joe Burgess, Betty Day, Treasurer Clark Jackson, and Dwayne Ariola
CHAMBER
GREATER TAYLOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER
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 members 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. 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 February, Business Expo in September, a Gala social in June and a community awards banquet in January. In addition to that, the Chamber is actively involved in Taylor Works, a workforce development project.
PRESIDENT & CEO:
Nancci Phillips-Burgess
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT:
Jason Hennington Taylor Press
1519 N. Main St., Taylor Email: info@taylorchamber.org Phone: (512) 352-6364 www.taylorchamber.org
Tia Rae Stone
Joanne Braley
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jordan Grier Secretary Taylor Compress, General Manager Tim Tarbell Treasurer Baylor Scott & White - Taylor Julie Downs Julie Downs, Realtor, Owner Mark Nibbelink McCrory Timmerman Building
PRESIDENT & CEO:
Denise Solbach City National Bank of Taylor
PROGRAM MANAGER:
Diana Phillips Chair
Mark Thomas
Regina Carlson
36 • FYI 2020
CITY OF TAYLOR
Theresa Pore Past Chair Theresa Pore, Ind. Beauty Consultant, Owner Duane Sivik Agent Cheryl Webster Noren Thermal Solutions, CEO Zona Sweeney Holiday Inn Express & Suites, General Manager Jesus Guerra Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area George Willey Taylor Ind. School Dist., Chief Academic Officer
& we have a place for U!
1519 N. Main St. www.taylorchamber.org 512-352-6364 info@taylorchamber.org
Church Directory ASSEMBLY OF GOD First Assembly of God 1400 W. Seventh St. Taylor 512-352-6133 FAITH BAPTIST 605 W. Sixth Taylor FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH OF JONAH Meets at Jonah Community Center Hwy 29 & CR 126 FIRST BAPTIST 701 Davis St. Taylor 512-352-3144 www.fbctaylor.org THE FIRST BAPTIST 300 N. Robinson St. Taylor 512-365-9000 FIRST BAPTIST 301 E. Mesquite Granger 512-859-1389
GOD’S WAY CHRISTIAN BAPTIST CHURCH 1101 West Second St. Taylor 512-560-3938 www.gwcbctw.org
CATHOLIC - OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE 113 Dickey St. Taylor 512-365-2380 www.ologtaylor.org
HUTTO BAPTIST 6655 Hwy 79 Hutto 512-759-2395
ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 408 Washburn St., Taylor 512-365-2175
MEMORIAL BAPTIST 340 W. Lake Dr. Taylor 512-352-5988
ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 2500 Limmer Loop Hutto 512-759-3712 www.stpatrickhutto.org
MT. CALVARY MISSIONARY BAPTIST 602 Symes St., Taylor 512-352-3838 MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 213 E. Taylor St. Taylor 512-898-4034 MT. ZION BAPTIST 104 E. Church St. Thrall
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 100 Sydney Blvd. Thorndale 512-898-2529
ZION CHAPEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST 612 E. Walnut St., Taylor 512-365-5618
FIRST SHILOH BAPTIST 100 County Rd. 481 Thrall
SAN GABRIEL BAPTIST 263 CR 421A San Gabriel
38 • FYI 2020
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 206 Farley St. / 113 East St. (Office), Hutto 512-759-2665 www.newhopehutto.org NORTHVIEW CHRISTIAN 2900 N. Main St Taylor 512-365-5611 OASIS CHRISTIAN CHURCH 121 E. Second Street Taylor 512-966-5470
CHURCH OF CHRIST 2702 N. Main St. Taylor 512-352-6444
UNITED CHRISTIAN CHURCH 603 Talbot St., Taylor 512-352-2753
CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 515 Simon St. Taylor 512-352-1333
EPISCOPAL Seventh & Davis Taylor 512-352-2330
WHOLE TRUTH C.O.G.I.C. 800 E. Rio Grande Taylor 512-508-8714 SALVATION & PRAISE TABERNACLE COGIC 419 Vernon St. Taylor 512-352-6179
CHURCH DIRECTORY
JEHOVAH’S WITNESS 2703 Medical Pkwy Taylor CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 6740 FM 112, Noack HUTTO LUTHERAN 402 Church St., Hutto 512-846-2064
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN 411 CR 401 Taylor 512-365-9494 PRINCE OF PEACE LUTHERAN 3101 CR 417 Taylor 512-365-6155 ST. JOHN LUTHERAN 409 S. Main St. Thrall 512-898-2587 512-898-2136 ST. PAUL LUTHERAN 401 W. Seventh St. Taylor 512-352-2327 www.stpaul.com TRINITY LUTHERAN 3505 N. Main Taylor 512-352-6958 www.trinity-taylor.org ZION LUTHERAN Co. Road 425 Sandoval 512-352-6574 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
HUTTO DISCOVERY UNITED METHODIST 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd Hutto 512-846-1707 www.huttodiscovery.org PLEASANT RETREAT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 852 CR 458 Thorndale 512-791-6376 TENTH STREET UNITED METHODIST 410 W. Tenth St. Taylor 512-352-2244 THRALL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 204 Shelton Street Thrall 512-352-2244 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTERDAY SAINTS 2800 N. Drive Taylor 512-352-3788 PENTECOSTAL ANOINTED TEMPLE APF 704 E. Third St. Taylor
MOMENTS FOR MEDITATION Coupland 512-856-2754 UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST ST. PETER’S CHURCH OF COUPLAND UCC 108 Wathen St. Coupland 512-856-2433 UNITY OF THE BRETHREN 710 Sloan St. Taylor 512-352-6423 CHRIST FELLOWSHIP 1517 McLain St. Taylor 512-352-7531 COWBOY CHURCH IN THRALL 230 E. Hwy 79 CROSSPOINTE COMMUNITY CHURCH 4110 CR 366 Taylor 512-365-0857 HARVESTING MINISTRIES, INC. 1301 West Second St. Bldg. B. Taylor
REVELATION OF CHRIST CHURCH 608 Howard St. Taylor 512-818-0993
LA HERMOSA CHURCH OF HUTTO 123 Front St. Hutto
JERUSALEM PENTECOSTAL 908 E. Walnut St. Taylor
MESSIAH WORSHIP CENTER 705 Wilson St. Taylor
METHODIST - ALLEN CHAPEL AME 516 Elliot St., Taylor 512-352-3945
NEW LIFE OF TAYLOR UNITED PENTECOSTAL 5300 N. Main Taylor 512-259-7271
FIRST UNITED METHODIST TAYLOR 907 W. Lake Dr., Taylor 512-352-2593 www.fumcaylor.org
IGLESIA PENTECOSTES SINAI 419 Vernon St. Taylor 512-269-2854
FIRST UNITED METHODIST GRANGER 201 S. Granger St. Granger
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 114 W. Sixth St. Taylor 512-352-3570 CHURCH DIRECTORY
NEW LIFE OF TAYLOR 5300 N. Main St. Taylor www.newlifeoftaylor.com 512-269-7271 NEW TESTAMENT HOLINESS 211 Gym St. Taylor 512-352-5170 RESTORATION HOUSE OF GOD FELLOWSHIP 901 E. Walnut St. Taylor 1-888-790-2970 ROCK OF SALVATION CHURCH 215 South Doak St. Taylor 446-9089 SOUTH LOOP CHURCH OF CHRIST South Loop/Hwy. 7 512-352-6060 TOWNWEST CHURCH 1616 Granger Rd. Taylor 512-352-2423 TRUE VINE CHURCH 204 Washburn (512) 569-1138 www.truevineministry hotmail.com YEGUA CREEK EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH 1200 CR 466 Elgin (512) 281-2500
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 39
Candidate For
Home loans that stay home.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY CONSTABLE 4
Paul Leal REPUBLICAN
• • • • • •
• • • • • •
Serving Central Texans for over 100 Years
• •
God Fearing Pro Constitution Pro Life Pro 2nd Amendment Married 28 Years Taylor Graduate – Taylor Resident Father Of Six - Two Biological Current Licensed Texas Master Peace Officer 25+ Years Public Safety FBI-LEEDA Executive Graduate FBI-LEEDA Command Graduate FBI-LEEDA Supervisor Leadership Graduate TCOLE Licensed Instructor First Line Supervisor
Instructor • Court Security Specialist Instructor • Experienced Criminal Investigator • Civil Investigations/ Process Certified • Environmental Law Enforcement Specialist • Advanced School Resource Officer • Standardized Field Sobriety Practitioner • Advanced Gang Investigator • Field Training Officer • Intoxilizer Operator • Christ For The Nations Bible College GraduateBiblical LeadershipFamily Care
(512) 352-8523 | www.cnbt.bank
Paid Pol. Adv. paid for by Paul Leal
Serving Taylor and Surrounding Communities for Over Four Decades
Locally Owned & Operated
TOMMY TALLEY ROOFING A name that stands for Quality and Integrity 512-352-2838 Office 512-844-8883 Cell
40 • FYI 2020
City of Hutto
C
ity of Hutto staff members have settled in their new city hall. The new city hall and Public Library is part of the Co-Op District, a mixed-use entertainment district. The public private partnership of this dynamic 35-acre business, retail and entertainment destination. As Hutto has experienced intense, rapid growth, the vision of The Co-Op District remained at the forefront. The land, which sat vacant since 2003 is a testament of partnership and progress as the home of the new city hall, city Library, Southside Marketing and Barbecue, Flix Brewhouse and Top Notch Hamburgers will truly transform Hutto from a bedroom community to a live, work, play environment for residents and visitors alike.
HUTTO CITY HALL 500 W. Live Oak St. Phone: 512-759-4033 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday The city is governed by an elected mayor and six-member city council: Mayor: Doug Gaul Phone: (512) 759-4034 Email: Doug.Gaul@HuttoTx.gov Place 1 – Scott Rose scott.rose@huttotx.gov Place 2 – Tom Hines Mayor Pro-tem Tom.Hines@HuttoTX.gov Place 3 – Mike Snyder Mike.Snyder@HuttoTX.gov Place 4 – Peter Gordon Peter.Gordon@HuttoTX.gov Place 5 – Patti Martinez Patti.Martinez@HuttoTX.gov Place 6 – Tanner Rose tanner.rose@huttotx.gov Interim City Manager: Charles W. Daniels
Phone: (512) 759-4030 Email: charles.daniels@huttotx.gov
Saturday - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday - Closed
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Director of Economic Development: Jessica Geray, AICP 401 W Front St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4012 Email: Jessica.Bullock@HuttoTX.gov
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
POLICE DEPARTMENT Police Chief: Paul Hall Phone: (512) 759-5978 HUTTO PARKS & RECREATION Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4000 Fax: (512) 759-4001 HUTTO PUBLIC LIBRARY Library: Jessica McCart Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Website: www.huttotx.gov Phone: (512) 759-4008 Monday - 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday - 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday - 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. CITY OF HUTTO
FINANCE DEPARTMENT Fax: (512) 846-2653 Email: Finance@HuttoTx.gov The Finance Department plans and directs the city’s financial activities. GENERAL SERVICES Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4049 Fax: (512) 846-2653 The General Services Department provides decision support and functional services to the city organization. MUNICIPAL COURT Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-1011 Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 41
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 the city limits. Case processing is predetermined by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and the Code of Judicial Conduct. PUBLIC WORKS Public Works Director: Stella Gonzales stella.gonzales@huttotx.gov Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4016 The 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
42 • FYI 2020
john@huttochamber.com Growing a small local chamber formed in 1986 to one with more than 330 members from the four corners and beyond, the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce membership represents businesses through the area. The Chamber hosts a number of monthly meetings, including Networking after Hours, Chamber luncheons, the Mayor’s Networking Breakfast, business seminars and special events, including an annual festival, Olde Tyme Days, held in October and the Crawfish Boil held in the spring. Hutto Leadership Academy (HLA) is a year-long educational program hosted by the Chamber designated to develop an awareness of the Hutto community and Williamson County while providing effective leadership training. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Chair: Andrew Hargrove with Fingerprint Ideas Chair Elect: Brad Walker with Walker Insurance Past Chair: Tanya Clawson with ACDI Secretary: Brenda Renfrew with Gaston & Scheehan Realty Treasurer: Troy Farr with Texas Pawn &
CITY OF HUTTO
Jewelry Member: Reb Burgert with HEB Plus Hutto Member: Robin Fontenot with Hutto Family YMCA Member: Lisa Woods with East Social House Member: Jimmy Ta with LegalShield Member: Joe Gonzales with VeraBank Member: Rhett Grametbauer with Play Catch Foundation Member: Alex Southerland with Big Red Express Carwash AMBASSADORS Ambassador Chair: Christina Chavira Camp Bow Wow Ambassadors: Paul DiBernardini - CND Signs Jena Dubon - Joseph Realty Tamra Williams - JT Williams Masonry Taylor Shearrer - Texas Farm Bureau Mary Stone & Sara Odom - Hutto Living Piet Van Waarde - Shoreline Church (Hutto Campus) Domingo Valdez - Jackson Drone Heather Babineaux - North Creek Apartments Donna Jones - Hutto Resource Center Terel Williams - Cube Smart
HUTTO ISD www.hipponation.org Address: 200 College Street, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-3771 Fax: (512) 759-4797 BOARD OF TRUSTEES President: Connie Gooding connie.gooding@huttoisd.net Vice-President: Bllie Logiudice billie.logiudice@huttoisd.net Secretary: Morgan Hubbard morgan.hubbard@huttoisd.net Member: Phillip Boutwell phillip.boutwell@huttoisd.net Member: Terrence Owens terrence.owens@huttoisd.net Member: Scott Feller scott.feller@huttoisd.net Member: Edgar Padilla edgar.padilla@huttoisd.net ADMINISTRATION Superintendent: Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas Phone: (512) 759-3771 ext. 1002 Email: Celina.EstradaThomas@ huttoisd.net Assistant Superintendents: • Dr. Robert Sormani Phone: (512) 759-3771 ext. 1004 Email: Robert.Sormani@huttoisd.net • Lisa Patterson Phone: (512) 759-3771 ext. 1016 Email: Lisa.Patterson@huttoisd.net Public Information Officer: Todd Robison, pio@huttoisd.net SNAPSHOT: Location: Seven miles east of IH 35 on Highway 79. Serving: Hutto (78634 and 78660) and portions of Georgetown (78626), Round Rock (78664, 78665) and Taylor (76574). Community: Rapidly growing community of more than 20,000 with a rich tradition of school support. • 6 Elementary Campuses PK-5 grade • 2 Middle School Campuses 6-8 grade • 1 High School Campus 9-12 grade • 1 Alternative Campus *All info as of Snapshot (Oct. 2017) ENROLLMENT: Total number of students: 7,238 African American: 12.37% Hispanic: 44.06% Caucasian: 37.00% Asian: 1.13% Economically Disadvantaged: 38.01% English Language Learners: 10.03% Bilingual Education: 7.36%
Career and Technology: 24.83% Gifted and Talented: 4.50% Special Education: 12.43% Military Connected: 1.88% CLASS SIZE INFORMATION: Elementary Kindergarten: 502 (6.94% of total enrollment) Grade 1: 600 (7.38%) Grade 2: 555 (6.83%) Grade 3: 594 (7.13%) Grade 4: 609 (7.49%) Grade 5: 625 (7.69%) Secondary Grade 6: 716 (8.81%) Grade 7: 610 (7.50%) Grade 8: 598 (7.36%) Grade 9: 742 (9.13%) Grade 10: 563 (6.93%) Grade 11: 509 (6.26%) Grade 12: 432 (5.31%) DEMOGRAPHICS: Male: 4,147 (51.01%) Female: 3,982 (48.99%) *All info as of Snapshot (October 2017) BENJAMIN DOC KERLEY ELEMENTARY (Opens in the 2019-2020 school year) Principal: Kyle Ruggirello Address: 800 Hayburn Ln. Phone: (512) 759-3371 https://www.hipponation.org/kes COTTONWOOD CREEK ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 4) Principal: Linda Pachicano Address: 3160 Limmer Loop, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-5430 Fax: (512) 759-5431 http://cce.hipponation.org/ HUTTO ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Gaye Rosser Address: 100 Mager Lane, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-2094 Fax: (512) 759-4778 http://hes.hipponation.org/ HOWARD NORMAN ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Greg Nestle Address: 1101 Llano River Trail, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-5480 http://hnes.hipponation.org/ CITY OF HUTTO
NADINE JOHNSON ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 4) Principal: Linda Almquist Address: 480 Carl Stern Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-5400 Fax: (512) 759-5401 http://njes.hipponation.org/ RAY ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Assistant Principal: Victor Juarez Saucedo Address: 225 Swindoll Lane, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-5450 Fax: (512) 759-5451 http://res.hipponation.org/ VETERANS HILL ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K-5) Principal: Misty Patureau Address: 555 Limmer Loop, Round Rock, TX 78665 Phone: (512) 759-3030 Fax: (512) 759-3980 http://vhes.hipponation.org/ HUTTO MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 6-8) Principal: Jason McAuliffe Address: 1005 Exchange Blvd., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4541 Fax: (512) 759-4753 http://hms.hipponation.org/ FARLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 6-8) Principal: Mark Willoughby Address: 303 CR 137, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-2050 Fax: (512) 759-2033 http://fms.hipponation.org/ HUTTO HIGH SCHOOL (Grades 9-12) Principal: Roy (Chris) Christian Address: Chris Kelly Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-4700 Fax: (512) 759-4757 Mascot: Hippo http://hhs.hipponation.org/ EAST WILLIAMSON COUNTY HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER www.ewchec.net Address: 1600 Innovation Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-5900 Fax: (512) 759-5616 Email: ewchec-hutto@templejc.edu Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 43
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/ general store opened in Thrall in 1901, and it was that same year that the town was renamed. Held in great esteem by the Stiles family, Methodist minister and historian Homer S. Thrall provided the inspiration for the community’s new name. 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 had fallen 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 44 • FYI 2020
small, rural Central Texas towns in an effort to get away from the hustle and bustle of cities with large populations. CITY OF THRALL City Hall: 104 N. Main St., Thrall Phone: (512) 898-5306 Mayor: Troy Marx • City Secretary: Melissa Perry • Commission members: Nicole Walla and J. “Scooter” Dubec Thrall has a mayor/commission form of government. UTILITIES Water, sewage and trash collection are handled through the city. For information, contact Thrall City Hall, 104 S. Main St., (512) 898-5306. EMERGENCY SERVICES Police Department 104 Main St., Thrall, TX Phone: (512) 898-5407 Alternate: (512) 898-5306 Police Chief: Whitney Whitworth Duties include law enforcement, crime prevention and community policing in the city limits of Thrall. The department CITY OF THRALL
also does a variety of community service initiatives, including property registration. Fire Department Phone: (512) 898-4272 Website: www.thrallvfd.org Fire Chief: Mark Muellenberg Assistant Chief Randy Carroll The all-volunteer Thrall Fire Department covers 75 square miles. The jurisdiction ranges from Granger Dam to the county line in the north to Lee County below Beaukiss and Shiloh. Duties are firefighting, helping at vehicle wrecks and medical assists to Williamson County EMS. Community programs include Fire Prevention Month in October, educating children with the smoke house during Thrall Harvest Festival and the Christmas Parade. DEMOGRAPHICS Most Thrall residents work in public administration, retail trade, manufacturing and construction. The estimated median family income was just under $36,832 as of 2009, according to www.city-data.com.
THRALL ISD 201 S. Bounds St., Thrall (512) 898-0062 Fax: (512) 898-5349 www.thrallisd.com BOARD OF EDUCATION President: Bryan Holubec Vice-President: Mat Poling Secretary: Rodrigo Reyes Member: Sonny Chandler Member: Brian Drummond Member: Chris Meyer Member: Wesley West Superintendent: Tommy Hooker Email: 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 has to 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 Thrall ISD opened a new high school campus last year. The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Excellence Indicator System performance reports. INFORMATION • Total enrollment 750 • Ethnic distribution: 65.9 percent white; 3.8 percent African American, 26 percent Hispanic • Average class size: 16 students • Staff: 95 • Professional staff: 62 (teachers, support staff, administrators) • Aides, Auxiliary staff: 23.2 • Average graduating class: 45 to 50 students • Taxable value of property in the district: $173,469,004 • Local tax revenue: $1,749,166 • State revenue: $3,497,598
CITY OF THRALL
THRALL ELEMENTARY (Pre-k through 4) Principal: Sherri Maruska Address: 201 S. Bounds St., Thrall Phone: (512) 898-5293 Website: www.thrallisd.com Enrollment: 312 students *Renovations and classrooms are currently being added to the elementary school* THRALL MIDDLE SCHOOL (Fifth through eighth grades) Principal: Kimberly Luton Address: 201 S. Bounds St., Thrall, TX 76578 Phone: (512) 8985193 Enrollment: 237 Website: www. thrallisd.com THRALL HIGH SCHOOL (Ninth through 12th grade) Principal: Travis Dube Address: 601 S. Bounds St., Thrall Phone: (512) 898-5193 Website: www.thrallisd.com Enrollment: 210
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 45
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 as the Bastrop and Taylor Railway 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 Telephone: 512-557-8159 Office Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 11:30 AM. Mailing Address: 46 • FYI 2020
City of Coupland PO Box 581 Coupland, Texas 78615-0581 COUPLAND CITY COUNCIL Mayor: Jack Piper Mayor Pro-Tem: Barbara Piper City Secretary: Laverne Rohlack Aldermen: John Roulston-Bates, Sarah Torluemke, Susan Garry and Karen Marosko 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. CITY OF COUPLAND
Board of Directors: President: Susan Schmidt Secretary: Lloyd Langston Treasurer: Mike Schneider Asst. Treasurer: Becky Sutton 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. Martin Garrison is pastor. 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. The Coupland Volunteer Fire Department is a crew of volunteer firefighters, many of whom are paid firefighters in other cities, who offer their services to help the community.
The department, which has its building at 410 FM 1466 east of town, and in the near future, the department hopes to have a new station to house all of its vehicles. Coupland firemen host a chili supper every year to raise funds and is constantly accepting donations to keep up its work. The department is dispatched by Taylor’s fire department, and emergency medical services are provided by Williamson County EMS. The fire department is also dispatched in all EMS cases to provide additional manpower if needed. Precinct 4 Constable Marty Ruble, and his staff serve warrants to most of Eastern Williamson County, including Coupland. Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace Judy Hobbs handles court cases.
COUPLAND ISD Coupland ISD has a 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, track and softball. Students in grades 6-8 go on one major field trip per semester. Trips in recent years have included visits to the Texas State Fair, the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, the Houston museums of Medical Science and Natural Science, the Missions of San Antonio, Port Aransas and NASA in Houston. The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Excellence Indicator System performance reports, the most recent information available at the time of this publication. COUPLAND SCHOOL (Grades K-8) Superintendent/Principal: Tammy Brinkman Address: 620 S. Commerce St., Coupland, TX 78615 Phone: (512) 856-2424
CITY OF COUPLAND
Fax: (512) 856-2222 Mascot: Cowboys Athletic Director: Kyle Rinderknecht Website: www.couplandisd.org Enrollment: 170 students Elementary, K-6: 108 Middle school, 6-8: 62 Demographics: Hispanic: 20.2 percent; White: 78.2 percent Economically disadvantaged: 40 percent Professional staff: 16.5 Teachers: 14.5 Professional support: 0.0 Central administration: 2.0 Educational aides: 4.5 Avg. teacher experience: 12.0 years Taxable value of property in the district: $53,071,250 Local tax revenue: $597,408 State, Federal revenue: $601,888 SCHOOL BOARD President: Kandice Samuelson Vice President: Crystal Ward Secretary: Michael Roepke Member: Misty Garwood Member: David Young Member: Rachel Roepke Member: Phil Viktora
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 47
City of Granger HISTORY This spring, the Texas House of Representatives honored the Granger ISD 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 schools 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 School. The celebrations throughout the 201213 school year included special events at sports events through out the school year and culminated with the annual alumni homecoming in May. This year, the 125th anniversary homecoming coincided with the 35th annual Lakefest, another community event featuring food booths and arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, a barbecue-cook-off, a parade, a car, truck and motorcycle show, musical performances, horseshoe tournament, a live 48 • FYI 2020
auction and a Wild West reenactment. The event is named for Granger Lake, formed by a dam on the San Gabriel River and opened to the public in 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 or 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 CITY OF GRANGER
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 Mayor: Trevor Cheatheam Mayor Pro-Tem: Linda Vrabel City Hall 119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530 Phone: (512) 859-2755 Fax: (512) 859-2871 Website: www.grangertx.us
Granger has a mayor/alderman form of government. Aldermen: Monica Schwitzer, Monica Stojanik Deborah Carter Todd, and Lynn Springfield. City Administrator: Christy Cavness Bradshaw City Clerk: Jeanine Kelm Accounts Payable Clerk: Beverly Currie City hall is where billing and city administration is housed. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Phone: (512) 859-2755 Department Director: Steve Puspejovsky Department employees: Kurt Kaderka, Clayton Green, Wayne Michalik COURTS Municipal Court 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: Justin Powell 119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530 (512) 859-2644 The department is staffed by Sgt. Thomas Thomas, Officer Vicki Donnelly, Officer Jason Susan, Officer Trey Jeffers, Detective Randal Glasgow and Sgt. Howard Cruse. 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 her driver’s license, and the department is currently trying to start a Neighborhood Watch program. Fire Department Fire Chief: James Chervenka Fire Marshal: Bobby Belcher 107 S. Granger St., Granger, TX 76530 (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 area. The department covers an area that reaches half way to Weir, north to FM 972, east to San Gabriel and south to FM 1331 and SH 29. DEMOGRAPHICS (Census 2010 data) Population: 1,419 Median age: 39.1 Male: 50.7 percent Female: 49.3 percent
GRANGER ISD BOARD OF EDUCATION President: Tommy Filla Vice President: Timmy Tidwell Secretary: Sandra Carpenter Mark Harwell Chelsy Ellison Scott Murrah Daryl Stefek Superintendent: Randy Willis rwillis@granger.txed.net
CITY OF GRANGER
SCHOOL INFORMATION 300 N. Colorado, Granger, TX 76530 (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 1-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 (Grades pre-k through 12) Principal: Mike Abbott Assistant Principal: Tara Stephens 300 N. Colorado, Granger, TX 76530 (512) 859-2173 Mascot: Lion Enrollment: Total students: 447
RECREATION Granger’s City Park is located at 205 E. Davilla St. The park is open to the public, but to book space for an event, call city hall at (512) 8592755. Granger is about eight miles from Granger Lake, which offers camping, hiking, biking, fishing and other water sports.
Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 49
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