oakhillgazette.com
December 17, 2015 Volume 20, No. 25 Southwest Austin’s Community Newspaper Since 1995
Amphitheater battle continues by Ann Fowler OAK HILL - Lawyers continue to battle over a 1,500-seat amphitheater at LifeAustin Church on Highway 71 in Oak Hill. Those representing the neighborhoods of Covered Bridge and Hill Country Estates argue against the purpose of the facility and reported noise complaints. Attorneys representing the church and the city say LifeAustin meets the “religious assembly use” for the amphitheater, and have a sound check report conducted by the city showing no audible sound at a Covered Bridge site, while sound at a site in the Hill Country Estates was well within legal limits. See AMPHITHEATER on p. 27
Photo: Shannon Lafayette
LifeAustin Church on Highway 71 in Oak Hill is making full use of its new 1,500-seat amphitheater—to the dismay of some of its neighbors.
OHAN awards Citizen of the Year
Gazette: Sarah Weeks
Austin High met Bowie in a basketball battle—details in Sports, p.11.
by Ann Fowler OAK HILL - The Oak Hill Association of Neighborhoods (OHAN) presented the Oak Hill Citizen of the Year award to Tom Thayer at its annual holiday party on Dec. 8 at the Rockin’ Y Ranch. Thayer, a resident of the South Windmill Run neighborhood, is a longtime community activist with an impressive list of organizations he is actively involved with, including:Oak Hill Neighborhood Planning Contact Team, Oak Hill Trails Association, Fix290, Save Oak Hill, Bicycle Advisory Council, OHAN and South Windmill Run See OHAN on p. 24
Photo: Rick Perkins
OHAN board President Darryl Pruett, right, presents award to Thayer.
2 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Letter to the Editor Music of Christmas lightens our burdens For the most part, we live in strange unsettling circumstances. Still the beautiful story of Mary and Joseph, their journey to Bethlehem on that cold, star strung night, the humble birth of Baby Jesus in the lowly manger still thrills peoples of the civilized countries worldwide. There is the frenzied shopping sprees, the Christmas tree the family brings home, decorates with brightly colored ornaments, flashing lights, silver icicles and tops with a star while sipping hot apple cider, enjoying Christmas pageants presented each year at schools,
churches and civic concerts at local civic centers, frolicking in the snow, the Salvation Army bellringer with his bright red kettle greeting you in front of your super market, main street decorated for the enjoyment of holiday shoppers – all this is Christmas. For years it never seemed like Christmas until I heard Bing Crosby croon Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. “What the heck is Bing Crosby?” is the reaction from the younger generation, much more attuned to performances by Snoop Dog or thumbing away on some computer game. Perhaps we should be exporting professional singers and talented musical groups such as Manhattan Transfer, Fourplay, Willie Nelson, Lisa Clark, For His Glory
Civic Agenda This space is reserved for information on civic happenings that occur in, or relate to the Southwest Austin area. To be included in the Civic Agenda, a meeting or event must relate to public policy. For other community events please see our community calendar on page 10. If you would like to be included, please e-mail editorial@ oakhillgazette.com with the subject “Civic Agenda” and include details
of your meeting or happening, along with any relevant agenda items. Austin Water Open House: One-
Now in our 20th year, the Oak Hill Gazette is locally owned and is published every other Thursday. With a circulation of 7.500, it is home delivered to over 5,000 homes in Southwest Austin and is sold in stands for 50¢. Publisher/Editor: Will Atkins Co-Publisher/Advertising: Penny Levers e-mail us:
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and Fountainview Strings & Choir, Journey – our Musical talent supply is almost endless. Music has no boundaries, it has international appeal, language makes no difference. An example of this comes to mind, Paul Simon’s journey into far off Africa that resulted in the blockbuster CD, Graceland.
Webmaster: Taylor Christensen Circulation Manager: Ingrid Morton Reporters/Writers: Ann Fowler, Tony Tucci, Patrick Olson, Travis Atkins, Roger White, Mike Jasper, and Laurel Robertson To advertise or subscribe: 301-0123 • advertising@oakhillgazette.com
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...3
Austin Independent School District news
AISD announces schools frozen to transfers for 2016-17 school year Last night, Austin ISD announced the names of 23 schools that will be frozen to transfers during the 201617 school year. Each year, AISD determines which schools should be frozen to transfers because they have, or are expected to have, enrollments that exceed their capacities. Some schools also are frozen to maintain stability in tracking patterns. Schools frozen to transfers in 201617 are: High schools: Akins, Anderson and Bowie Middle schools: Gorzycki, Lamar and Murchison Elementary schools: Baldwin, Baranoff, Barrington, Becker, Blazier, Brentwood, Casis, Clayton, Cowan, Davis, Doss, Gullett, Hill, Kiker, Menchaca, Oak Hill and Webb Primary Beginning with the 2016-17 school year, in an effort to ease overcrowding, majority-to-minority priority
transfers will only be accepted at schools that have space. This will not include frozen schools. Requests for in-district student transfers for the 2016-17 school year may be submitted in person or by mail to the Office of Student Services. Requests will be accepted Jan. 4-29, 2016. All requests submitted
during that time will receive equal consideration. The district will begin accepting requests for out-of-district transfers Feb. 1, 2016. For more information, please visit austinisd.org/transfer or call the Office of Student Services at 512-414-1726.
AISD adopts plan to reinvent the urban school experience Austin ISD, one of the largest school districts in Texas, recently adopted its 2015-20 Strategic Plan. The board has adopted the frame-
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work for the plan June 22 and finalized a scorecard, which will be used for an annual report. Continued on page 13
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4 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
This Old Spouse
family humor
It could have been ‘The Old Rugged Noose’ by Roger White Leave it to the creative mind of Gene Roddenberry to send me into yet another mental wormhole. And I warn you from the outset, this particular “thought experiment” may be potentially upsetting to the less open-minded, strenuously dogmatic, sense-of-humor-challenged, and/ or excessively pious of you. You’ve been warned. Curled up on the comfy couch watching an episode of Roddenberry’s original “Star Trek” series recently, I was thrown quite unceremoniously into a fit of conceptual conniptions by a particular scene from the 1968 episode entitled “Bread and Circuses.” My TV-watching fare of Shiner, Fritos, and . . . er, certain aromatic herbal nourishment may have contributed significantly to the Capital credits are a unique wormhole process, but I digress. This Trek episode, in which Captain part of co-op membership, Kirk and crew are forced to fight in gladiatorial games on a planet where and PEC is distributing nearly a modern-day Roman Empire rules the land, juxtaposes the culture, $8.3 million to members on garb, and traditions of ancient Rome December electric bills. with contemporary technology. Hence, you have emperors, senators, and proconsul types handing down edicts over loudspeakers and This year, some members will gladiator contests broadcast over receive capital credits for multiple network television. However, the scene that shoved accounts on one account’s bill. me down my own little space-time porthole of pontification was the one in which Kirk and company are captured by Roman guards wielding submachine guns. Woah. (And this episode came out in ’68, mind you—two years before Andrew Pedernales Electric Cooperative Lloyd Webber armed his Romans pec.coop/capitalcredits with automatic weapons in Jesus Christ Superstar.) Anyway. That’s when it hit me: What if the Romans—our ancient Romans—had possessed such pec_3764x8_cap_credits_2015.indd 1 11/24/2015 8:44:16 AM technology? Of course, the mind reels with infinite possibilities (like what if Spartacus had had access to F-14 Tomcat air cover). But what I became fixated on was the impact
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on Christianity—not the religion as momma in the heart of the Lone Star a whole, mind you, but merely the State, here in belt buckle of the Bible symbolism involved. Belt. All I’m doing is saying “what if.” You see, the universally recognized In an alternate universe somewhere metaphor for the Christian faith is, just east of Andromeda, who’s to say of course, the cross. Why? Because one of these scenarios isn’t playing that’s how Jesus was put to death; out this very microsecond? the sign of the cross Who’s to say that symbolizes His victory on an alternate Earth over death. But what if right this minute Altercrucifixion hadn’t been nate-Earth Christians the means of execution aren’t gathered in their for the Roman Empire? houses of worship singWhat if, for example, ing their praises thusly: electrocution had been “At the chair, at the the execution method chair, where I first saw du jour? Think about it. the light…” Or maybe Gold necklaces worn by country-and-western faithful folks around the singers on Ganymede are globe would have little paying homage this very electric chairs dangling moment to “The Old, Roger White at the end. Rugged Noose.” Or what if execution of And consider tradicriminals had been accomplished by tional sayings and adages. “It’s not hanging, for instance? Nuns far and my cross to bear” on Europa might wide, instead of making the symbol be more along the lines of “It’s not of the cross when they prayed, would my chair to sit in”— or something. arch their necks at severe angles and No! No, please, put the garden pull on imaginary nooses to display tools down! I’m just saying “what if,” their piety. that’s all! It’s just a thought bubble! Or consider lethal injection. I gotta quit doing Shiner and Fritos Churches from Brownsville to Boze- with “Star Trek” so late at night. man, instead of featuring an outsized cross on their steeples, would display Roger White is a freelance writer great hypodermic needles to call the living in Austin, Texas, with his lovely faithful to worship. wife, two precocious offspring, a very OK, wait! Hold it. Wait a minute. obese but mannerful dachshund, Put the pitchforks down. Douse the and a cat with Epstein-Barr. For torches. I’m not demeaning Christi- further adventures, visit oldspouse. anity by any means. I’m not poking wordpress.com. Or not. fun. I was raised Southern Baptist, for crying out loud, by a God-fearing
I was raised Southern Baptist, for crying out loud, by a God-fearing momma in the heart of the Lone Star State, here in belt buckle of the Bible Belt. All I’m doing is saying “what if.”
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...5
The Word from Oak Hill
neighborly news
I went and saved the best for last Mike Jasper
The word in Oak Hill is …best. As in The Best of Oak Hill. Should of thought of this two years ago. After all, it’s got all of the elements of a great column. It’s in short chunks, it includes a lot of names, and it takes very little effort on my part. So without further adieu… BEST PLACE TO SHOW CALIFORNIANS A VIEW OF THE HILL COUNTRY: The snack bar at the top (or close to the top) of the ACC Pinnacle Building. That said, they’ll all laugh and say, “Those are all the hills you got?” BEST ADVOCATE FOR A CAUSE: I’ve got to go with Dr. Jim Turney. He has supported his Convict Hill Quarry Park with dedication and conviction. Give the guy an A+ for resilience. I’ve gotten updates from him consistently for the past three years. Or whenever it was he discovered my column. BEST PR PERSON: Amber LaFrance, bar none. Turned me on to the next Best on this list, as well as Black Fret’s grant programs for musicians. It’s not just because she’s gorgeous. No, not at all. BEST RECORDING STUDIO: Orb Recording. It would be the best recording studio in San Francisco if it were there. And it would be in the argument if it were located in LA. Frankly, it’s the best recording studio I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been to the now-defunct Record Plant in Sausalito, Calif.
BEST PAWN SHOP: Daniel drinking at 2 p.m. and everyone Mahon’s Pawn Shop & Archery Pro thinks it’s OK. Shop. Because he could easily be in BEST BAR OVERALL: Boomerz. the Harrison family on TV. Because you can be there drinking BEST TREES: The oak trees TX- at 2 a.m. and everyone thinks it’s OK. DOT is planning to cut down to BEST GAY BAR: Detour’s. Because make an expanded highway. you can be there at any time and BEST RESTAURANT still be surrounded by men. OVERALL: Jack Allen’s BEST FEMALE BARKitchen. Because they TENDER: Melissa at took a place that conBoomerz. Probably bestantly failed and turned cause of the ginger hair, it into a winner. Jack the killer smile and the Gilmore is the Bill Beliwinsome personality. chick of chefs. 2ND BEST FEMALE BEST ITALIAN BARTENDER: Roger at Mike Jasper RESTAURANT: Verona’s, Boomerz. Probably beof course. Where the owncause of the ginger hair, er will come to your table and talk the killer smile and the winsome to you. I love that old school stuff. personality. BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT: BEST MALE BARTENDER: That Thai Taste. Nothing fancy, just real blonde you think is a girl at Detour’s. good food. BEST PLACE FOR A PIZZA BEST SUSHI: I’m sticking with Ta- DATE: I’m still going with Austin dashi’s at the Hill Country Galleria. Pizza Garden. The whole history BEST DINER: Jim’s Restaurant. I of the place, and then you throw in know. You probably thought I was the ghosts, the hauntings, the bricks going to say Kerbey Lane. But the and Jamie. menu changed, and I don’t like it BEST PIZZA: The Detroit Pizza as much. No more shepherd’s pie. at Via 313. (Motto: So Detroit, we And the vegie burger has changed serve it at gunpoint). into something funky. But mainly, BEST ANTIPASTO SALAD: no more shepherd’s pie. Austin Pizza Garden, como no hay BEST FOOD TRAILER: Fishey dos. Hands down the best. And the Bizness at the Sunset Valley location large one feeds two adults. (formerly of Oak Hill). BEST NEIGHBORS: The Witchy BEST PLACE TO HAVE A FOOD People have been good sports, but so TRAILER: The Rusty Mule. have Thrasher, Bob, Ann and Mary. BEST RESTAURANT BAR: Jack I’ll say Charlie. Allen’s. Because you can be there Continued on page 22
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6 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Gazette Health Guide
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...7
Pet Page
Animal Center determined to find homes for pets this Christmas The Austin Animal Center is celebrating the holidays by bringing pets for adoption to 12 local businesses all over Austin in the “12 Stops of Christmas” adoption event.
The remaining 5 Stops of Christmas are: • Dec. 18 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Austin City Hall, 301 W. 2nd Street • Dec. 19 from 12 to 4 p.m. at Trader Joe’s, 211 Walter Seaholm Dr., Downtown • Dec. 20 from 11 to 3 p.m. at The Daily Grill, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace, Domain • Dec. 20 from 12 to 4 p.m. at West Elm, 1011 W 5th St Set 100 Downtown • Dec. 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Banger’s, 81 Rainey Street “We are determined to find homes for many of Austin’s homeless pets this holiday season,” said Deputy Chief Animal Services Officer Kristen Auerbach. “The Austin Animal Center wants to make it easy for people to
adopt a pet if they are looking by bringing our most lovable pets to local businesses all around Austin.” The shelter will also offer specials on pet adoptions through Jan. 3, 2015. Pet adoptions for all ready-to-go dogs
will be $50 and all ready to go cats will be $25. All pets adopted will include spay or neuter surgery, a microchip and vaccinations – a package valued at more than $200. The usual adoption
fee is $75. The Friends of Austin Animal Center are requesting donations of items from their Amazon Wish List for the animals at the shelter. Items can also be dropped off at the Austin Animal Center daily. The Austin Animal Center will be closing early at 3 p.m. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 and will be closed all day Christmas Day, Dec. 25. The Center will also be closing at 5 p.m. New Year’s Eve, December 31 and closed all day New Year’s Day, January 1, 2016. City shelter pet adoptions are available at the Austin Animal Center, 7201 Levander Loop, and the City’s dog overflow kennels shared with Austin Pets Alive! at Town Lake Animal Center, 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St. The centers are open from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For more information check www.austinanimalcenter.org or call 3-1-1 or check Facebook for daily pet updates, www.facebook.com/ austinanimalservices.
Precious is a two year old female pit bull mix looking for a loving home. Great with dogs and loves going to the dog park. She has not been around many children but we are pretty sure she will be excellent with them. She is a mellow, go with the flow kind of girl. Please contact us at (512) 892-4158 if interested.
Gazette Pet Guide
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8 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Arts & Entertainment Ongoing Events
Fridays
Sundays
Friday night Dance Club - w/ Western bands and a Pot Luck break. 7:30pm-10pm at South Austin Activity Center, 3911 Manchaca RD, Austin. $4.50.
Live Jazz Brunch - 10am-2pm. Nutty Brown Cafe, 12225 Hwy. 290 W., 78737. 301-4648. nuttybrown.com. Tessy Lou Williams & The Shotgun Stars - 4pm at Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W., Spicewood. No cover. Sunday/Fundays - Every first Sunday of the month the Neill-Cochran House Museum will be open to the public for free from 1pm - 4pm 2310 San Gabriel St. 512-478-2335 nchmuseum.org
Mondays Charles Thibodeaux and the Austin Cajun Aces - 6:30pm at Evangeline Cafe, 8106 Brodie 512.282-2586. Texas Songwriters Showcase 6:30pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W., Spicewood. No cover.
Wednesdays No Bad Days Open Mic - 7pm at Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W., Spicewood. 50+ Singles Dance- 7:30-9:45 Live Music. Senior Activity Center 29th & Lamar. 2874 Shoal Crest. fiftyplusdanceaustin.com Trivia Night - Wednesdays at Waterloo Ice House, Southpark Meadows, 9600 South I-35 Service Rd. SB, Suite D-100. 512-301-1007 waterlooicehouse.com. The Peacemakers - 10pm at Evangeline Cafe, 8106 Brodie 282-2586..
Thursdays Karaoke - at Boomerz Nightclub, 6148 Hwy 290 W.. 892-3373.
New Events September 27 - January 4 Strange Pilgrims - an open-ended journey through time, space, imagination, perception, and the senses. Presenting fourteen artists over three sites, Strange Pilgrims proposes “experiential art” as work that is immersive, participatory, performative, and kinetic. The Contemporary Jones Center 700 Congress Ave. November 25 - December 27 The Santaland Diaries - Martin Burke as the ever-irreverent elf Crumpet. Whisenhunt stage Zach Theater 202 South Lamar 512-476-0541 zachtheater.com A Christmas Carol - New hit songs and reimagined carols. Topfer theaterZach Theater 202 S. Lamar 512476-0541 zachtheater.com December 5 - December 23 Ballet Austin presents The Nutcracker - Choreography by Stephen Mills, Music by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky. The Long Center 701 W. Riverside Drive (512) 457-5100 thelongcenter.org Friday, December 18 Love. at Stateside - 8pm Featuring Ginger Leigh, Patrice Pike, Hedda Layne, Shelley King, Carolyn Wonderland, Suzanna Choffel & Wendy Colonna Stateside at the Paramount, 713 Congress Avenue, 512.472.5470 info@austintheatre.org
Josh Groban - 8pm Bass Concert Hall 2350 Robert Dedman Drive 512.471.1444 texasperformingarts. org December 10 - December 20 Of Mice and Music: A Jazz Nutcracker - Tapestry’s take on the holiday classic. The Long Center 701 W. Riverside Drive (512) 457-5100 thelongcenter.org December 22 & 23
Carolyn Wonderland and Guy Forsyth’s – Roast the Holidays and Toast the New Year! - 7:30pm Rollins Studio Theatre The Long Center 701 W. Riverside Drive (512) 4575100 thelongcenter.org December 26 & 27 Blue Man Group - The Long Center 701 W. Riverside Drive (512) 4575100 thelongcenter.org December 29 - December 31
Willie Nelson & Family New Year special guest, Lucas Nelson & Promise of the Real & Kacy MusgravesDoors @ 6pm show @ 7:30pm Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater 310 Willie Nelson Blvd (512) 225-7999 acl-live.com
Open Mic with your host, Garett Endres. Starts at 9pm every Thursday 290 West Club 12013 W Hwy 290
Third Thursday at The Blanton - free evening of art and activities. 5-9pm at Blanton Museum, Brazos and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. blantonmuseum.org
A Child’s Christmas In Wales 4:30pm & 7:30pm gives the gift of music, mirth, and magic to listeners, literature fans, families, and children of all ages. First Presbyterian Church 8001 Mesa Blvd
Saturday, December 19
Tony Harrisson / Dance Lessons / Jesse Dayton- 6pm - 9:15pm 9:15pm at the Broken Spoke, 3201 S. Lamar. 442-6189.
“Thirsty Thursday” gathering- Poems and songs will be shared in a round robin, open mic atmosphere following the featured presentation. On the third Thursday of every month. Free. Food pantry donations are welcomed. 7pm at New Life Lutheran Church, 120 Frog Pond Ln in Dripping Springs. Info: 512.858-2024
LifeAustin Amphitheatre 8901 West Hwy 71
Thursday, December 31
Kelly Willis and Bruce Robinson’s 18th Annual Holiday Shindig with special guest Rodney Crowell 8pm the Paramount Theatre 719 Congress Avenue 512.472.5470 austintheatre.org The Annie Moses Band - 7pm the acclaimed classical crossover ensemble performs stunning arrangements of holiday favorites. The
African Children’s Choir New Year’s Eve Benefit/Rock The Brazos! - The program features wellloved children’s songs, traditional Spirituals and Gospel favorites. Brazos Hall 204 East 4th Street (512) 380-1675 www.rockthebrazos.com Bob Schneider’s New Year’s Eve Party with the Last Bandoleros - 9pm the Paramount Theatre 719 Congress Avenue 512.472.5470 austintheatre.org
Community Clubs & Events Ongoing Events Woodworkers Club of Austin 7pm on the 1st Tuesday of the month in the training room at Seaton Hosp SW, on FM 1826 We are a non profit org. and make toys etc for charity. Call Bill at 512-288-3252 Free Overeaters Anonymous - Fridays at 8pm open meeting. No dues, fees or weigh-ins. Everyone welcome! Unity Church of Austin, 5501 W. US Hwy 290, Service Rd. Vicki (512) 925-7854 or Candy (432) 349-1512 Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Meeting - Bannockburn Baptist Church room 103 Every Wednesday, 7pm - 8:30pm Anne Slater 512-215-9719 for more info
Drive. Open to ages 18 & up. 956494-4809 / oakhill.freetoasthost.biz Alzheimer’s Caregiver SupporGroup - 2nd Wednesday of the month at noon at Arveda Alzheimer’s Family Care, 11013 Signal Hill Drive, 78737. Anyone caring for a loved-one with dementia and needing support is invited. RSVP to 512637-5400 and feel free to bring your own lunch. www.arvedacare.com. Senior Luncheon Program - Seniors (over 60) meet at 8656 Hwy. 71 W, Bldg A, next to JP bldg every Tues, Wed and Thurs from 10am2pm. Transportation available. Call 512-854-2138 for more info.
Conversation Cafe - Drop in for open, public dialogue on a variety of topics. Every third Saturday from 10:30am-11:30am at the Hampton Branch Austin Public Library at Oak Hill, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. 512-9749900 cityofaustin.org/library. FREE
Oak Hill Neighborhood Planning Contact Team - Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, OHNPCT does not meet in November.There is no December meeting scheduled. OHNPCT’s next meeting will be: January 27, 2016 6:30pm at the ACC Pinnacle Campus, 10th Floor Board Room. www.ohnpct.org.
Classes and meditation - with Western Buddhist nun, Gen Kelsang Ingchug. Every Sunday at 9:30am at Chittamani Buddhist Center, 1918 Bissel Lane, 78745. Everyone welcome. Spiritual counselling by appointment. Call for free brochure. 916-4444. meditationinaustin.org.
MOMS Club of Austin - Are you a stay at home mom looking for support, daytime activities and other moms like you? The MOMS® Club of SW Oaks/Oak Hill offers all that and more. You can find us on Meetup at www.meetup.com/MOMSClub-of-Austin-SW-Oaks/
Sisters in Crime Heart of Texas Chapter - Meets monthly on the second Sunday of the month at 2pm at the Recycled Reads (part of the Austin Library system) 5335 Burnet Rd www.hotxsinc.org.
Southwest Networking Group (SWING) - meets for breakfast at Waterloo Ice House, Slaughter Ln. & Escarpment Blvd., 9600 Escarpment Blvd.. 8-9:30am. Bring business cards. For more info call 4829026 or 921-4901. Thursdays.
VFW Post 4443 meeting - Meets on first Tues. of month from 7-8:30pm at 7614 Thomas Springs Road in Oak Hill. Members and potential members are encouraged to be there around 6pm to gather for dinner. There is no cost. The Oak Hill Rotary Club - Meeting the first two weeks each month for lunch on Thursday at Johnny Carinos on Brodie and then join us for social/networking events the other weeks as posted on our website. Circle C Area Democrats - 6:308:30pm Santa Rita in the Escarpment Village. Meets on second Mondays of month. For information:circle careademocrats.org. Toastmasters Groups - Build leadership and communication skills in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. Visitors welcome. Tejas Toastmasters: 288-7808/ tejastoastmasters. org. Meets every Mon. at 6 pm at IHOP, 1101 S. Mopac. South Austin Toastmasters: meets first and third Tuesday at noon at ACC South Austin Campus, 1820 W. Stassney Lane. Phone 443-7110 or 288-7808. Oak Hill Toastmasters: meet every Thursday from 6:45-8pm at Western Hills Church of Christ, 6211 Parkwood
South Austin AARP Chapter 2426 - Tom Bauer will talk about leadership styles and best practices, 1pm - 4pm at South Austin Senior Activity Center, 3911 Manchaca Rd. Free. Meets on third Wednesday of the month. For more info call Mary at 280-8661. www.southaustinaarp.org. OHBPA Meeting - (Oak Hill Business Professionals Association). Meets every first Thursday of the month from 11:30am-1pm at Mandola’s Italian Market, 4301 W. Wm. Cannon $15. ohbpa.org. Hill Country Republican Women -- meets second Thursday of the month from 6:30 pm to 8 pm at Santa Rita in Escarpment Village. For more information: http://www.hillcountryrw.org/ or call Deborah Penn at (512) 288-2054. Creative Arts Society - Meets on first Wed. of month (except Jan.,July, Aug.) at ACC Pinnacle, 10th floor, faculty lounge. 6pm networking. 7pm program. All artists and art enthusiasts are welcome. creativeartssociety.org 288-0574. ALS Caregivers Support Group Group will meet from 12:15 to 2:15 pm on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday af-
ternoons of each month, at the Yarborough branch (2nd Tues) and the Twin Oaks branch (4th Tues) of the Austin Public Library. FREE Contact: Jinji Willingham (512) 350-8505 Retired Austin Travelers - a group for people who love to travel. Regular meetings are held at the Oak Hill Library 5124 Convict Hill Rd. More information & directions can be found at the web site, ratsonline.org. South Austin Civic Club - Dedicated to making South Austin a better place to live, work and conduct business by advoacting for issues that affect the quality of life in South Austin. Monthly luncheons are at 11:30 on the 2nd Tuesday at Red Lobster 3815 S. Lamar. For info contact: Linda Clarke at 512-899-2120.
New Events September 5 - January 31 3-D Watercolors, Metal Sculptures & Paintings - See the unique watercolors of Shou Ping See the beautiful landscape paintings of bluebonnets by Ken Moore in the Store into December. An exhibit of metal sculptures by Sun McColgin also opens Sept. 12 on the Center grounds. Enjoy this “Relics in The Field” exhibit through January. LBJ Wildflower Center 4801 La Crosse Ave (512) 232-0100 wildflower.org November 23 - December 30 Oak Hill calligraphy exhibit - Alphabetical Order at the Austin public library’s Hampton Branch at Oak Hill. A calligraphy demonstration Sat., Dec. 5 from 2pm to 4pm. Lettering artists from Capital City Scribes will demonstrate a variety of calligraphy forms and answer questions. December 8 - December 22 Trail of Lights - 7pm - 10pm Zilker Park. Get more information on the best way to get there and how to get in at: austintrailoflights.org December 15 - December 24 Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 10am - 10pm Visitors can explore an amazing array of handmade items from 160+ artists while enjoying live local music and sips from a full bar. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road Parking is available in the Palmer Events Center/Long Center garage for $8. Saturday, December 19 Starting Seeds Indoors - 10am Linda Wall gives a gardener more control over when they can plant. It also expands the available plant varieties and avoids “imported” diseases and pests. the Natural Gardener 8648 Old Bee Cave Rd (512) 2886113 naturalgardeneraustin.com
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...9
Outdoors & Fitness Ongoing Events Farmer’s Market at Sunset Valley - Locally grown fresh produce at Tony Burger Center, 3200 Jones Rd. Saturdays from 9am-1pm. www. sfcfarmersmarket.org. Docent Tours of AMOA - Each Sat. & Sun. 1pm Docent-led tours of the recently restored 1916 Driscoll Villa, the intimate art exhibition Laguna Gloria Grounded and the historic gardens overlooking Lake Austin. Austin Museum of Art, 823 Congress 512-495-9224 www.amoa.org. Texas Outdoor Women’s Network - Open to women of all ages interested in outdoor activities. fishing, kayaking, camping, hiking and more! No experience required. Free monthly meetings on fourth Tuesday of each month at 6pm at the LCRA Red Bud Complex, 3601 Lake Austin Blvd. . www.townaustin.org. Hill Country Outdoors- “Austin’s Most Active Outdoor, Sport an Social Club” Specializing in adventure with outdoor events such as hiking, camping, biking, road trips and rafting. hillcountryoutdoors.com. Westcave Preserve public weekend tours- Sats. and Sundays,
Ongoing Events
10am., noon, 2pm & 4, $5 adult/$2 child/$15 family. One mile hike into the canyon & back. Kids welcome w/ adult. No pets. For more info call (830)825-3442 westcave.org . Guided Hikes - Second Sat. & second Sun. of each month at 9am at Bright Leaf Natural Area, 4400 Crestway Dr., Hikes are usually 4 miles long and last about 2 hours. Wear sturdy shoes and bring your own water. brightleaf.org Senior Safari Adventure - Tues. Fri., 1pm - 2:30pm Calling all Seniors (60+)Put on your walking shoes and join us as we stroll around the Zoo to meet and learn about some of our animals. Please bring bottled water as we do not have drinkable water on grounds. $5 caregiver $13 Senior 10808 Rawhide Trail (512) 288-1490 Nature Hike at McKinney State Falls - Free interpretive hikes to discover the diverse range of flora and fauna that can be seen at McKinney Falls. Hikes are offered the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month starting at 10am from the Smith Visitors Center. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring water. Hikes last approximately 1.5 hours. jeanneffia@gmail.com
New Events
Sat., Dec. 19 & Sun., Dec. 20
New Events
Sunday, December 20
Lost Pines Christmas Bird Count - he official Lost Pines Christmas Bird Count will be held Sunday, December 20, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day before the count, Saturday, December 19, will be dedicated to complimentary birding workshops and a special presentation. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa - 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Cedar Creek, TX 78612 http://visitlostpines.com/HyattLost-Pines/Activities/Christmas-birdcount.aspx
Thursday, December 17
Jon Napier Song Swap with Houston Marchman - 7:30pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-264-0318 poodies. net
Friday, January 1
Second Saturdays are for Families - $7 per family; $5 Member families. Noon-4pm at Austin Museum of Art, 823 Congress Ave. Please RSVP to akichorowsky@amoa.org to give an idea of materials needed. 512-4959224 / www.amoa.org. Every Wednesday Thinkery Community Nights - 4pm - 8pm MAKE and DO together at Community Night! Every Wednesday the museum stays open late for families to discover new ideas and learn together. Enjoy the exhibits and educational programs facilitated by staff. Admission is by donation, with a suggested $1 dollar donation. Bilingual Storytime Wednesdays at 6 pm Thinkery At the Meredith Learning Lab 1830 Simond Ave. thinkeryaustin.org
New Events November 28 - December 20 Christmas Carol - Sat 10am; Sun 2pm Burdine Johnson Indoor Studio Theatre EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens 1101 FM 2325 512-847-6969 emilyann.org
Barton Springs Polar Bear Splash - 10am Take part in the annual Polar Bear Splash at Barton Springs Pool on New Year’s Day. Save Our Springs will be set up with our commemorative shirts, coffee, and donuts. Barton Springs Pool 2201 Barton Springs Rd,
Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy as they bring the timeless fairy tale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to life in a live theatrical experience that is pure magic. Erwin Center 1701 Red River 512471-7744 uterwincenter.com
Saturday, December 19
Storytime - Tuesdays & Wednes-
Disney Live! Three Classic Fairy Tales - 1pm & 4pm Join Mickey
Wink Keziah - 7pm Johnny Buck and the Gulftones - 9pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-264-0318 poodies.net
Sunday Gospel Brunch with the Purgatory Players - 11am - 1pm at Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca Rd 512-828-7636 strangebrewloungeside.com
Sunday, December 27
Friday, December 18 Gary P. Nunn - 9:30pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar (512) 4426189 or brokenspokeaustintx.com Well Worn Soles - 6pm - Midland - 8pm Mike and the Moonpies 10pm Poodies Hilltop Bar and Grill 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-264-0318 poodies.net Redd Volkaert - 10pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com Saturday, December 19 Neil Young Tribute “The Year of the Horse” - 9pm Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca 512-828-7636 strangebrewloungeside.com
Trish and Darin Murphy’s Holiday Special - 8pm at Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca Rd 512-828-7636 strangebrewloungeside.com Sunday Gospel Brunch with the Purgatory Players - 11am - 1pm at Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca Rd 512-828-7636 strangebrewloungeside.com
Tuesday, December 22 Dime Store Poets - 7pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 2822586 evangelinecafe.com Wednesday, December 23 Rick McRae - 7pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com
The Lost Sounds of Honky Tonks - 8pm The Cavaliers - 10:30pm Poodies Hilltop Bar and Grill 22308 Hwy. 71 West 512-264-0318 poodies.net
Christmas
Snow Day - 12pm family fun day as we bring real snow to the Hill Country Galleria! Toss a snowball, build a snow man, make a snow angel, and take fun family photos! Hill Country Galleria 12700 Hill Country Blvd
Weldon Henson - 8:30 332 Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX (512) 8584314 Mercerstreetdancehall.coml Thierry’s 11th Annual Christmas Show - 3pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com
Monday, December 28 Texas Songwriters Showcase: WC Jameson Hosts Doug Kent 6:30pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-264-0318 poodies.net Tuesday , December 29
3rd Annual Austin Music Family Holiday Show Legends & Legacies - 8pm featuring “The Allen Family”, “Gilmore Family”, “McMurtry Family”, “Graham Family”, and the “Welch Family” at Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca Rd 512-828-7636 strangebrewloungeside.com
Tessy Lou and the Shotgun Stars - 7pm The Rusty Mule 9201 Hwy 290 (512) 704-6416
Jeremy McBee Duo - 7pm Satellite Bistro & Bar 5900 Slaughter Lane #400512-288-9994 satellitebistroandbar.com
Chris Bell Quartet - Noon - 3pm at Central Market Westgate 4477 S. Lamar 512-899-4300 centralmarket.com
Monday, December 21
Danny Britt - 7pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com Wednesday, December 30 3 Chord Rodeo - 9:30pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar(512) 4426189 brokenspokeaustintx.com Thursday, December 32 NEW YEAR’S EVE Cleve and Sweet Mary’s EarlyNew Year’s Eve - 7pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com
Derailers - 9:30pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar (512) 442-6189 or brokenspokeaustintx.com Holiday Heroes - 11am hilariously fun holiday sing-along, students get into the holiday spirit with Ernie and Rufus. Topfer at Zach Theater 202 South Lamar 512-476-0541 zachtheater.com
Augie Meyers - 9pm Strange Brew 5326 Manchaca Road 512-8287636 strangebrewloungeside.com Billy Garza - 8:30 332 Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX (512) 8584314 Mercerstreetdancehall.coml
The Copa Kings - 6pm Central Market Cafe Westgate 4477 S. Lamar Blvd 512-899-4300
FREE Holiday concert - 6:30 - 9pm Groundwork Music Orchestra with students from Austin area schools will be performing a free holiday concert at the North Lamar Central Market 4001 North Lamar www.groundworkmusic.org.
Los Americans - 6:30 at Central Market Westgate 4477 S. Lamar 512-899-4300 centralmarket.com
Hill Country Hoedown w/ Doug Moreland & the Flying Armadillos - 8pm 332 Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX (512) 858-4314 Mercerstreetdancehall.coml
Crybabies - 6:30 at Central Market Westgate 4477 S. Lamar 512-8994300 centralmarket.com
Friday, December 18
Homeschool Days at the Science Mill - Homeschool families and groups to join us on the second Wednesday of each month to explore the Science Mill. In addition to museum exhibits, we will offer special demonstrations and guests. Museum hours are 10am-4pm. Cost: $6 per student. 1 free educator per student. Additional adults are $8. No reservations required.Learning Labs will be offered at 11:30am and 1pm for an additional cost of $4 per student (limited space for Learning Labs).
Nick Connolly - 7pm Evangeline Cafe 8106 Brodie Ln 512 282-2586 evangelinecafe.com
Derailers - 9:30pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar(512) 442-6189 brokenspokeaustintx.com
Kids Calendar days at the Hampton Library, 5125 Convict Hill Rd. Toddlers Fridays at 11am, . 892-6680. wiredforyouth.co
Arts & Entertainment cont.
New Year’s Eve Dance w/ Alvin Crow - 9:15pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar(512) 442-6189 brokenspokeaustintx.com Saturday, December 26 Dale Watson - 9:30pm Broken Spoke 3201 S. Lamar (512) 4426189 or brokenspokeaustintx.com Gary P. Nunn - 10pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-264-0318 poodies.net
New Year’s Eve Party with WC Clark - 9pm Poodie’s Hilltop Bar & Grill, 22308 Hwy. 71 W. 512-2640318 poodies.net Hill Country Hoedown w/ Doug Moreland & the Flying Armadillos - 8pm 332 Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX (512) 858-4314 Mercerstreetdancehall.coml
10 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Drippin’ Lowdown
Dripping Springs
Ringing in the new year in Hill Country style Shorter days this time of year mean we have longer nights - allowing
even more time to get out and enjoy Christmas lights and holiday night
entertainment! The two weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year’s are brimming with special events and fun things to do out west of town. So take a ride away from traffic, through star-filled skies, to enjoy any of these once-a-year holiday events in the nearby Hill Country. On December 19, Luckenbach’s annual Christmas Ball will roll again with the music of Gary P. Nunn. Gary P. is a tradition at the Christmas Ball, and it will be a delightful night, dancing to music of the man who penned “London Homesick Blues.” Come hear more of his music and enjoy the little town of Luckenbach, all dressed up for Christmas. 9pm, $20. The next night, December 20, you’ll have the rare chance to hear the Kyle Sisters sing and entertain on the intimate stage at Hudson’s on Mercer in Dripping Springs. They’ll be joined by other members of the Kyle Family - among them, their son/nephew and his wife, Chad and Natasha Hudson (owners of Hudson’s on Mercer). This is the first in what I hope becomes annual Kyle Family Christmas performances at the new music venue. With their homespun wit and wise-cracks, the Kyle Sisters will make you laugh ’til your sides hurt - and then, with their family warmth and wisdom, cry ’til your makeup runs. Bring tissues. 7-10pm. The 46th annual LBJ Tree Lighting on December 20 at the LBJ State Park near Stonewall is a time-honored tradition you won’t want to miss. Beginning at 6 pm, the park comes to life with holiday decorations, carolers, a live nativity and the spectacular lighting of a beautiful native cedar tree. There will be refreshments and even a visit by Santa himself. Visitors can walk down a lit trail to enjoy the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm’s old-fashioned Texas German Christmas. Glowing lanterns and candles light the recreated early 1900s farm and there will be a traditional candle-lit Christmas tree. German cookies and cakes on the kitchen table and traditional holiday music are just part of the authentic German pioneer
holiday delights. The entire evening of events at the LBJ Park is free to the public. tpwd.texas.gov/calendar. Christmas extends past the 25th in the old German town of Fredericksburg. December 26 is known a s “ Zw e i t e Weihnachten,” or “S e c on d Christmas,” and the traditional holiday party is celebrated from 2-5 pm at the Gillespie Country HisLaurel Robertson torical Society’s Social Hall just off Main Street. Traditional German food, drink, decorations, music and camaraderie are hosted by the Fredericksburg German Club. Try a traditional baked stollen or a glass of warm Gluhwein and help keep alive the German tradition of community gathering the day after Christmas. Admission is free. Just after Zweite Weihnachten, the Pioneer Museum on Main Street will have a Candlelight Tour of the two-block museum complex. From 5-7 pm, you can tour the historic buildings and grounds - decorated and lit for Christmas - and enjoy live music and refreshments, including Christmas cookies and Wassail. The tour runs from 5-7 pm and is $10 per person. The Pioneer Museum includes several restored historic houses (from log cabins to large homes), a one-room schoolhouse, a firehouse, a bathhouse, a wagon yard and the six-sided Vereins Kirche building, which is centrally located across Main Street in the Fredericksburg Marktplatz. The 26-foot tall Christmas Pyramid, or Weihnachtspyramide, (discussed in my last column) and Eisbahn skating rink will still be operating the week after Christmas. (The Eisbahn runs through Jan 2; the Weihnachtspyramide will be up until Epiphany, Jan 6.) Stores and restaurants in town will still be brightly decorated, so you won’t have missed
much if you wait until after Christmas to take in the scenery in Fredericksburg. For more info, visit their website: fredericksburg-texas.com/events.
New Years
Options for New Years celebrations in the nearby Hill Country are plentiful this year. Five traditional country dance halls within 60 miles of the “Y” have big dances scheduled for that night. The closest is Dripping Springs’ own Mercer Street Dancehall, who’ll have the sounds of Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos pouring across the large wooden dance floor. The show begins at 8:30 with $10 tickets at the door. The dancehall has a full bar with a food truck outside; it’s heated (and air-conditioned, if that’s necessary this New Years!) Twin Sisters Dance Hall (just south of Blanco off Hwy 281) will have Bret Graham entertaining in the 145-yearold hall with the fabulous hardwood dance floor. Twin Sisters is the real deal - a community-owned historic dance hall that was already old back when Pappy Selph and Bob Wills were the travelling bands. Regular dances are on the first Saturday of each month, with a special dance each New Years. The ever-popular Dale Watson will play at Kendalia Halle for their New Years Dance. Kendalia Halle, just a ways southwest of Blanco, says they provide “a fun and clean environment suitable for the entire family to experience one of the oldest historic dance halls in Texas.” They serve free barbeque tacos before each dance and host monthly dances on the second Saturday of each month. This special New Years dance begins at 8:30 and reservations are taken and recommended. New Years Eve in Luckenbach features the music of Thomas Michael Riley in the Luckenbach Dance Hall. Tickets for the evening include a champagne toast and shuttle service to and from the Fredericksburg Inn. Dance beginsDripping at 8pm,Springs and they’re notMarket taking Farmers reservations - first come, first served. Visit www.luckenbachtexas.com for more info.
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...11
Gazette Sports: Austin • Bowie • Crockett
Student Athlete Spotlight Evan Underbrink by Patrick Olson In close basketball games late in the fourth quarter, it is imperative to inbound the ball flawlessly. For the Austin High girls’ basketball team, Evan Underbrink handles that chore admirably. “She’s been given greater responsibility on the press breaker by taking the ball out of bounds,” coach Tricia Hughes said. “This is one of the hardest things to do because decision making is key. Evan is a wonderful student athlete. She brings a smile each day and has a positive attitude.” A native of Austin, Evan attended Casis Elementary, before progressing to O’Henry Middle School. “She has improved so much since her freshman year,” added the coach. “Now she’s be-
Evan Underbrink, Austin come a more versatile player by being able to guard the wings on defense in addition to the post.” Continued on next page
Andrew Miller Gazette: Sarah Weeks
Bowie’s Andrew Miller (54) takes on Austin High’s Rafael Ramirez (10)—also in the page one photo.
Maroons start sluggish but beat Bowie by Patrick Olson
The Austin High boys basketball team overcame a sluggish first half and prevailed over Bowie 59-53 behind 20 points from Josh Harris. A 41-point second half enabled the Maroons to earn their first district win of the season. Andrew Miller and Will Walton each contributed 13 points for the Bulldogs. Austin High (7-3, 2-0) proceeded to defeat Akins 59-56 Friday while Bowie (77, 0-2) sustained a 60-50 setback at Westlake.
Jeffrey Gary, Rafael Ramirez, Micah Carlson, Ben Sheridan and Harris started the game for the Maroons, while Josh Wainwright, Austin Duffin, Cole Blagdon, Miller and Walton began for Bowie. The Bulldogs scored the game’s first seven points before Carlson put the ball in the net inside. The teams combined for six turnovers in the first period, and Miller moved the home team in front by six points with a basket off the glass. Gary’s trey hit nothing but net, but the Bulldogs led 13-10
as the first quarter expired. Miller then made his 6’3” 194 lb. presence known with a bucket in the paint and one successful shot from the foul line. Justin Ng extended the Bowie lead to double digits with a three-pointer, and Blagdon contributed a trey of his own to give the Bulldogs a 26-18 advantage at intermission. With increased tenacity and speed on the floor, Austin High raced to a 36-32 lead in the third quarter following Continued on page 14
by Patrick Olson
On the front-court of the Bowie boys’ basketball team, Andrew Miller protects the rim and provides interior scoring. “He’s easy to coach and works extremely hard,” said coach Celester Collier. “He’s very respectful and is a true student athlete in every sense of the word.” Miller and his teammates visit Lanier on Friday with tip-off set for 7:30 p.m. Born in Austin, Andrew attended Boone Elementary, before advancing to Small Middle School where he also ran track, competing in the high jump event. During the off-season, he plays on the select team Centex Shooters to improve his hoops skills. As a sophomore at Bowie he voluntarily moved from the varsity team to
Andrew Miller the junior varsity team to garner additional minutes. His younger sister Alexis plays volleyball at Continued on next page
12 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Evan Underbrink Continued from p. 11
Underbrink scored six points in the Lady Maroons’ 59-51 win at Akins last Friday. Personal trainer Chris Corbett has been a positive influence for Evan. “He’s my favorite person and has supported me in my life,” she acknowledged. During the summer, Evan played on select teams Austin Glory and MP Elite. Freshman English instructor Ralph Miller is Evan’s favorite teacher at Austin High. “He was the freshman boys’ basketball coach so we had basketball in common,” she added. “He had me help him with a new class called Model United Nations where you become a delegate and speak for a country and offer solutions to solve world problems. “If you love the sport, play it, prac-
tice hard and have a good attitude in everything,” she replied when asked if she had advice for younger pupils aspiring to compete at the varsity level in high school. “You can’t coach effort.” Austin High returns to district competition Friday hosting Hays with tip-off set for 7:30 p.m.
Andrew Miller
Crockett gears up for District play by Patrick Olson
After a disappointing 2014-15 campaign that garnered a mere four wins, the Crockett boys’ basketball team aims for double digits victories in the 2015-16 season. The brown
Continued from p. 11
Ann Richards. Contemporary Issues is Andrew’s favorite class at Bowie. He enjoys friendly competition with fellow students, discussing current issues regarding music, art, history and geography. Following graduation, Miller aims to attend college. “I want to pursue a degree in engineering,” he said Monday before resuming preparations for a final exam in Advanced Placement Economics.
Miller found a trip to a tournament at The Woodlands beneficial to the Bulldogs. “We had some solid games and we’ve had good team chemistry all year,” Andrew said of the event that saw Bowie play four games in 24 hours. “There was a lot of sleeping on the way back.” Bowie practiced this week to prepare for the road game at the Vikings. “We worked on defensive drills,” he noted. “We’re perfecting our defense.”
and gold hoops contingent already has wins over Lehman and Smithson Valley. Losses to formidable foes Harker Heights, Denton Guyer and San Antonio Edison should strengthen the club when district games dominated the schedule in January and February. The Cougars are led by veteran guard Ryan Mejia who utilizes his left handed shot to deliver defensive dilemmas for opponents. “He plays a couple of roles,” second year coach Derrick Davis said of 5’8” senior back court competitor who works at point guard and shooting guard. “When you’re left handed, it makes him tougher to guard. We’re
better when he’s off the ball.” To help Mejia find multiple shot opportunities, Davis alternates Brandon Cooks and sophomore Mekhi Ball at the point guard position. “On the perimeter, we’re solid,” said the coach. “The difference is found in the paint. We’re active in the paint. We’re getting more production.” Juniors Enrique Castillo and Kemel Kelley have solidified the front court for Crockett at 6’4’ and 6’2” respectively. The Cougars visit LBJ on Friday with an 8 p.m. tip and venture east on Tuesday for an afternoon start beginning at 3 p.m. at Cedar Creek.
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...13
Austin Independent School District news educational, community, AISD adopts plan to reinvent the among staff and resource perspectives. A scorecard report will be provided urban school experience annually, and will be made available Continued from p. 3 The plan will provide the district with direction for the next five years and position AISD to make continued progress into the future. “When we all work together to implement the strategic plan, we can close achievement gaps. It is our goal to graduate all of our students on time and prepare them for college, career and life in a highly changing and competitive world,” said Superintendent Paul Cruz. “I look forward to sharing my commitment to the expectations established in the
strategic plan with all stakeholders of AISD.” The strategic plan consists of three principal parts: The framework, developed and approved by the board of trustees, includes statements of mission, vision, core beliefs, commitments and values. The scorecard, also developed and approved by the board, includes several performance indicators with reported data and targets. The scorecard indicators are grouped by the core beliefs, and are balanced
on the strategic plan website. The five-year implementation plan, developed by district administration, includes strategies and several key steps, grouped by the commitments. Status reports will be provided periodically, and will be made available on the strategic plan website. The strategic plan will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and focused on the needs of the district. For more information about the strategic plan, please visit austinisd. org/strategicplan.
AISD to participate in White House initiative District, partners invited to the White House to help launch the My Brother’s Keeper School Success Mentorship Initiative and Learning Network. Austin ISD has been invited to help launch the My Brother’s Keeper School Success Mentors Initiative in an effort to provide additional support for high-needs students to enable them to succeed academically and graduate from high school prepared for college, career and life. “I’m honored and excited that we were one of only 12 school districts selected from throughout the nation
to share how we support and prepare our students and communities for success,” AISD Superintendent Paul Cruz said. Cruz, along with Travis Early College High School Principal Ty Davidson, Lanier High School Principal Ryan Hopkins, Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy Principal Sterlin McGruder, Project Lead Sonia Dominguez, District Coordinator of Cultural Proficiency and Inclusiveness Angela Ward and E3 Alliance President and Executive Director Susan Dawson will work Continued on page 22
Celebrate Christmas Join us for our holiday season worship services at oak hill united Methodist church
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9 a.m. Breakfast 10 a.m. Combined Worship “Lots of Christmas!” If you enjoy reading this paper, please thank our advertisers. They make it possible.
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14 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Maroons start sluggish but beat Bowie Continued from p. 11
a three pointer by Harris. Harris converted an interior field goal and then blocked a Bowie shot, as the visitors took a 38-34 lead entering the final quarter. A three-pointer by Blagdon narrowed the Maroons lead to 41-37. The Bulldogs aggressively defended on the subsequent possession, but Beau
Kalbacher found Harris underneath for two more Austin High points. A thunderous dunk by Miller kept Bowie close, until two free throws by Gary made it 47-41 in favor of the Maroons. Walton drove into the lane for two more Bowie points with two minutes remaining. A pair of points from the charity stripe by Harris gave the
Maroons a 53-49 lead. With under a minute left, Caden Donahue banked shot off the glass to make it 55-51. Ramirez showcased defensive intensity next, swatting a shot by the Bulldogs into the Bowie student section. Gary then iced the game 59-53 with two free throws. Below: Action from the game.
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...15
News from ABIA: watch out for dancing reindeer Tis the season for holiday travel at Austin-Bergstrom airport, named one of Travel & Leisure’s World’s Best Airports 2015. Passengers may experience dancing Santas, holiday carols, and more air service options. Holiday air travelers should check their flight status and arrive in the terminal at least 90 minutes before departure time. Knowing travel and security processes help make for a smoother travel experience. Growth in Austin’s air service means more nonstop flight options are available. With more flights comes an overall increase in passenger traffic this season. Additionally, passenger traffic is expected to increase as area universities and schools let out for the end of their semesters. New nonstop destinations for holiday travelers this year include Toronto
on Air Canada, Miami on American Airlines, Portland on Alaska Airlines, St. Louis and Orange County on Southwest and Memphis and Orlando-Sanford on Allegiant. Mobile food ordering is now available at Austin-Bergstrom. To learn more, download on the AppStore or Google Play: http://grabmobileapp.com/ . An expedited passenger screening process is offered by CLEAR. Travelers enrolled in CLEAR will find their lane at checkpoint one. Enrollment kiosks to become a member of CLEAR are located at checkpoint one and in the ticket lobby area next to TaxFree Shopping. For more information or to enroll visit https://www.clearme.com/ The Judy Lee Dancers will be performing December 22 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Even passengers get into the act with the dancing Santas and reindeer
of the Judy Lee Dancers. This is in addition to the 23 live music performances presented weekly at the airport. All performances are held past passenger screening checkpoints and are available to ticketed passengers only. Those coming to the airport will likely notice construction activity at the entrance just inside the airport fence. This is the building of a new parking facility, Park and Zoom, and is expected to open in late 2016. For more information on this and other airport improvements visit “Tuning Up” at http://www.austintexas.gov/ department/improvements-are-underway. Austin-Bergstrom is experiencing consistent passenger growth dating back to January 2010. Getting through the airport is smoother for travelers who come prepared. Arrive in the
terminal at least 90 minutes before departure times for domestic flights and two hours before departure of international flights. The first passenger screening checkpoint opens at 4 a.m. Check flight status before arriving at the airport, www.abia.org or with your airline. Allow ample time to get to the airport. Traffic and weather could add to commute time. Real-time ABIA On-Airport Parking information is available by calling 512-530-3300. A free cell phone parking lot is available for those picking up arriving passengers. The cell phone lot can be accessed from the airport’s main entrance road, Presidential Blvd., or Spirit of Texas Dr. For airport information 24 hours a day, call 512-530-ABIA (2242) or visit www.abia.org. Be prepared for security screening, dress smart and pack smart. TSA’s
Pre-Check is available at checkpoints 1, 2, and 3. To enroll, visit www.tsa. gov. Carry-on luggage is restricted to one bag and one personal item such as a laptop, purse, or backpack. Shoes, coats, jackets, hats and other such garments must be put through x-ray screening. Wrapped gifts may have to be opened during security inspections. Remember 3-1-1 for liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on luggage. Three ounces per container, in a clear, onequart bag, one per passenger, and place this in a bin for x-ray. While packing, check luggage to ensure no prohibited items are in the bag or its pockets. For a comprehensive list of banned and permitted items in carry-on baggage, visit the TSA’s Web site at www.tsa.gov.
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16 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Veritas Academy wins State Title in 6-Man In only its fourth year to compete at the varsity level in Texas Association of Private & Parochial Schools (TAPPS) six-man football, Veritas Academy capped its undefeated season on December 3rd with a twenty point victory in the state championship game against Live Oak Classical School of Waco at Bastrop Memorial Stadium. The Defenders were led by all-state Seniors and co-captains Harrison Snow and James Schultz. Snow, a six-foot, 228-pound linebacker and offensive utility player registered just under 100 tackles this season and returned three of his nine interceptions for touchdowns; while on offense, he threw five touchdown passes, rushed for eight scores, and hauled in three touchdown passes. Schultz, a six-foot, two-inch, 175-pound quarterback and kicker,
finished his high school football career with another touchdown pass in the championship game while also making all eight of his two-point conversions, giving him 86 successful conversions on the year. In the title game, Junior running back Riley Pakes carried the ball 16 times for 146 yards, and Freshman Hanan Jones gained another 116 yards on 15 carries. Pakes and Jones, along with Junior receiver Graham Wheelock and Sophomore defensive back Sam Zimel, joined Snow and Schultz in receiving all-state recognition this season. The Defenders entered the championship game with a 12-0 record, a 46-point average margin of victory, and an average score of 66 points per game, though eight games were ended early (usually at halftime) due Continued on page 26
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...17
Twelve tips for twelve days: Protect your car this Holiday Season As we all gear-up for the peak of the holiday season, it’s important to remember that many communities report an increase in motor vehicle theft and burglary activity between late November and the new year. Whether you find yourself rushing around town for gifts or are planning an extended trip away from home, the holidays present more opportunities for people who may want to steal your car or valuables. The Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority (ABTPA) would like to give you twelve tips for the next twelve days to help you protect your property: 1. Lock your car and take your keys. Approximately 50 percent of all vehicles stolen are left unlocked. 2. Hide your valuables from plain sight to avoid attracting thieves. Don’t leave your holiday gifts in the car. 3. Never leave your car running, even if you’ll only be gone for a minute. Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATMs, etc. Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up. Leaving your key in
an unattended motor vehicle is a crime in Texas. 4. Your vehicle may be more vulnerable when you park outside. If you have a garage, use it. Lock your garage and your vehicle doors, even when parked in a garage. 5. Park in well-lit areas or attended lots. More than half of all vehicle thefts occur at night. Auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking of lots. If you park in an attended lot, leave only the valet key if you have one. 6. Don’t leave documents with important personal details such as the title or insurance card in your car. A car thief can use these to sell your stolen car. File the title and registration receipt at your home or office, and carry your insurance card in your purse or wallet. 7. Disable your vehicle when leaving it unattended for an extended period. Remove the electronic ignition fuse, coil wire, or distributor rotor, or otherwise disable your vehicle any time thieves may have extended access to it. 8. Never hide a second set of keys in or on your car. Extra keys can easily be found by thieves. 9. Park with your wheels turned
toward the curb and use your emergency brake. Make your car tough to tow away. Wheels should also be turned to the side in driveways and parking lots. 10. Get locking devices for inside your car. Visible steering wheel locks provide a deterrent and prevent the steering wheel from being turned properly. Gas or brake pedal locks disable the fuel and braking functions. Gearshift locks disable shifting of the transmission by locking it in place. Tire/Wheel locks wrap around the wheel and prevent the vehicle from moving. Hood locks prevent the thief from gaining access to your security system and battery. An armored collar around the steering column protects the column and ignition. 11. Have an ignition or fuel kill switch installed by someone who is qualified to provide services. Ignition kill switches can be used to stop the car from starting. A fuel kill-switch cuts off the flow of fuel when the switch is off. 12. Have a safe holiday season! For more information see www. txwatchyourcar.com or call 1-800-CAR-WATCH (227-9282)
City of Austin news City electric utility proposes reduced revenue needs In the first public step of a yearlong rate review process, the City of Austin-owned electric utility – Austin Energy – Tuesday said it could cut base revenues by $17 million a year without reductions to reliability. Electric rate recommendations to the Austin City Council will be presented next summer by an impartial hearings examiner that will evaluate Austin Energy’s data and concerns by stakeholders. The electric utility, discussing the proposed 2.7 percent reduction in revenue requirement with the Council on Tuesday, also raised concerns about the current distribution of base revenue costs to various rate classes. “This step kicks off what we believe will be a transparent, open process for reviewing the City’s electric utility revenue needs,” said Marc Ott, Austin City Manager. “We invite public and customer participation in this process, which eventually will lead to final consideration and adoption of rates by the Austin City Council by mid-summer
of 2016.” “Austin Energy both reflects and affects the region’s economy,” said Mark Dombroski, Chief Financial Officer of Austin Energy. Dombroski will take over as interim general manager of the city-owned utility Jan. 1. “We are seeing record growth in population and employment. That both adds costs and increases the number of people among whom we can spread fixed costs of running a utility. It’s a balancing act, but all told, we can afford to reduce rate revenues by $17 million and meet Council goals.” Austin Energy recently exceeded 400,000 residential customers. Outgoing Austin Energy General Manager Larry Weis said he was pleased that the utility had recovered financially enough in the past five years to begin to feather back the rate increase that was necessary in 2012, when he first arrived in Austin. “Our financial reserves are recovering,” said Weis, who is leaving for a similar position in Seattle, Washington. City Council policy calls for a re-
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18 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Religious Services ANGLICAN
St. Philip’s Anglican Church 1408 W. 9th St, Austin. 78703 Fr. Gary Francis, Vicar Holy Communion 1928 Book of Common Prayer Sunday 11:00 am gkfrancis@suddenlink.net Traditional Anglican Worship
BAPTIST
Bee Cave Baptist Church 13222 Hwy. 71W (at Hwy. 620) (512) 263-5058 Pastor: Rev. Jim Roquemore Services: Sun. 10:45am & 6:30pm, Sunday School 9:30am Children’s church available Sun. am Wed. Prayer & Bible Study 7 pm First Baptist Church of Oak Hill 6907 Convict Hill Rd 78749 512) 288-7570 Pastor: Rob Satterfield Services: Sun. 10:50am & 6:00pm Bible Study Sun. 9:30am Thursday Abide student ministry 6:30pm www.fbcoakhill.org Oak Hill Primitive Baptist Church 11408 Camp Ben McCulloch Rd. Pastors: Richard Halbgewachs and mark Huffman Services: Sunday Prayer 9:00 am, Coffee Fellowship 9:30 am, Worship 10:30 am, Wednesday 7:00 pm www.oakhillpbc.org Scenic Hills Baptist Church 8305 Mowinkle Dr. (off Circle Dr.) (512)288-0244 Pastor Matthew Cox Adult and children’s Sunday School classes- 10am Sunday worship service- 11am Sunday evening service- 6pm Wednesday prayer and preaching service- 7pm More info found at- scenichillsbc.com
BAUTISTA
Iglesia Bautista Oak Hill 6907 Convict Hill Rd., 78749 Cell(512)828-9545/Home(512)719-4366 Pastor Leonel Flores Sr. Servicios Bilingües- Domingo: 9:45am- Escuela Dominical, 11 am- Adoración & Mensaje Miércoles:7pm-EstudioBíblico&Oración Música Tradicional y Contemporánea ¡Visitarnos!
CATHOLIC
St. Catherine of Siena 4800 Convict Hill Rd. 78749 892-2420 Pastor Rev. Patrick Coakley Weekend Masses: Sat. 9am, 5pm vigil; Sun 7:30am, 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:15pm, 5pm Weekday Masses: Mon-Fri. 12noon, Sat. 9am, Tues & 1st Fri 7pm
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Western Hills Church of Christ 6211 Parkwood Drive 892-3532 www.whfamily.org westernhillsoffice@gmail.com Sunday Services:9am Bible Classes (all ages),10am Worship (with Children’s Church) Evening - groups & worship alternating weeks Wednesday: 7pm Worship, classes for all ages, 6pm Meal together We have an inspiring and Biblically rich worship service, a very active Youth Ministry and a growing Children’s Ministry! “We are... a place to believe, a place to belong, a place to call home”
COWBOY CHURCH Cowboy Church of the Hill Country 120 Frog Pond Lane(4 miles west of Nutty Brown Road on Hwy 290) (512) 587-2242 Pastor: Jerry Kelley pastor@cowboychurchhc.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m. www.cowboychurchhc.org facebook.com/Cowboy ChurchHC info@ cowboychurchhc.org We do things the Cowboy way!
EPISCOPALIAN
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 So. IH-35 (exit #223, FM 1327; take north access road 1.1 mile) 282-5631 www.stalbansaustin.org Seeking the transformation of lives through sharing God’s love and grace Rector: The Rev. Erin Hensley Services: 9am & 11:15am Holy Eucharist Rite II, Coffee Hour 10 am & 12:45 am, Christian Formation for All Ages 10:15 am-11am Children’s Chapel at both services and professional nursery from 8:45 am-12:45 pm St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church 8724 Travis Hills Dr. 78735 (between SW Parkway & Old Bee Caves) (512) 288-0128 www.stchristopher.net Rector: The Rev. Bo Townsend Services: Holy Communion at 10am Sundays; Children’s Chapel at 10 am Christian Ed. 9am (Sept. 10-May 20) Seeking God’s Truth, Sharing God’s Love St. Michael’s-South St. Michael’s Episcopal Church-New South Campus Meeting at Covington Middle School Auditorium, 3700 Convict Hill (1 block SW of Brodie & Wm. Cannon) 9:00 A.M. Worship, Sunday School, Nursery All are welcome around God’s table st-michaels.org
HINDU TEMPLE
Shree Raseshwari Radha Rani Temple 400 Barsana Road, Austin, TX 78737 512-288-7180 Visiting Hours: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm www.radhamadhavdham.org
ISLAM
Masjid Ibrahim Islamic Center Religious Services/Youth & Children Activities 1701 W Ben White Blvd. Bldg. #3 512-693-2924 Friday Sermon @ 1:00 PM Mosque open 7 days for 5 daily prayers Check Mosque website for prayer timings and weekend programs www.masjidibrahim.org Email: admin@masjidibrahim.org
LUTHERAN
Abiding Love Lutheran Church “Sharing God’s Love” 7210 Brush Country, 78749 (512)892-4040 Sr. Pastor:Lynnae Sorensen Assoc. Pastor: Brad Highum Sunday Services: 8:30am and 11am Education Hour: 9:45 am (for all ages) Children’s Center 892-2777 Director: Debbie Tonne Full & PT programs M-F, 7am-6pm Food Pantry- Mondays 1:30-3:30pm info@abidinglove.org www.abidinglove.org Bethany Lutheran Church “Where Jesus Meets His Friends” 3701 W. Slaughter (next to Bowie) 292-8778 email: info@blcms.org Pastor: Rev. William B. Knippa Assoc. Pastor: Rev. Martin Danner Sun. Worship Services: 8am (Trad.) 9:30 & 11:00 am (Blended Traditional & Contemporary Music) 6:00 p.m. (Contemporary Praise) Sunday School & Bible Study: 9:30am Nursery During Services Bethany Preschool, Mon-Thurs. www.blcms.org Holy Cross Lutheran Church 4622 S. Lamar 892-0516 Rev. Magdalene Holm-Roesler, Pastor Services: 10:00 am Sunday Study Hour: 9:00 am Sunday Fellowship & Coffee after services Adult and Children’s Sun. School www.hclcaustin.org You’re always welcome here. Mt. Olive Lutheran Church 10408 Hwy 290 West (4 miles from the “Y” in Oak Hill) 512-288-2370 info@ConnectwithJesus.org www.Mt.OliveAustin.org Pastors: Paul Meyer and Ben Braun Services: 8 am traditional and 10:30
am contemporary. Education Hour: 9:15-10:15 am Preschool: 18 months to Pre-K, Preschool Phone: 512-288-2330 Full and part-time hours. Risen Savior Lutheran Church-WELS 2811 Aftonshire Way 78748 512-280-8282 Rev. Bilas Glaeske, interim pastor Services: Sunday Worship— 9:30am Sunday School/Bible Classes for all ages, Sunday— 11:00am¡ www.risensavioraustin.net
METHODIST Oak Hill United Methodist Church 7815 Hwy. 290 W. 78736 288-3836 Rev. Jim Roberts, Rev. Pam Sheffield, and Rev. Katy Fitzhugh Services: Sunday 8:45, 10 & 11:15am (Interpreted for the deaf at the 10 and 11:15am services) Wednesday ReCharge service 6:15pm Sunday School: 10 & 11:15am Children’s Sunday School: 8:45, 10 & 11:15am, Youth group: 5pm www.oakhillumc.org open hearts, open minds, open doors! Manchaca United Methodist Church Open hearts, Open minds, Open doors! 1011 FM 1626 (SE corner of FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd) www.ManchacaUMC.org; office@ ManchacaUMC.org; 512.282.7274 Pastors: Rev. Laura Adam, Rev. Tracey Beadle Sunday Schedule: 8:30 am – Traditional Worship with Communion in the Sanctuary. 9:45 am - Sunday School; adult, youth and children. 11:00 am - Traditional Worship and Hymns in the Sanctuary. 11 am - Life on the Road - Casual Praise Service in the Family Life Center 5 pm - High School & Middle School youth programs Wednesday Worship: 6:00 am Individual Prayer and Meditation with Communion
NON - DENOMINATIONAL
Austin Ridge Southwest 7416 Hwy 71 W, 78735 512-288-8000 Worship services: 9:15 and 11:00 Children’s Ministry: 9:15 and 11:00 Middle/High School 6 pm www.austinridge.org Hope in the City 4407 Monterey Oaks Blvd, 78749 Phone; 512-892-4673 Senior Pastor: Britt Tucker Sun. Service 10:15 am www.hopeinthecity.org We value loving God, loving one another and loving Austin and the Nations.
LifeAustin 8901 W Hwy 71 78735 Phone: 512-220-6383 Lead Pastor: Randy Phillips Sun. Services: 8:30, 10:00 & 11:30 am Wed Services: 7 pm Life University, 7 pm Student Life LifeAustin is a Bible Church - a cosmopolitan community of healing and hope. We are all about connecting people to Christ and to each other. Unity Church of Austin 5501Hwy 290 West, 78735 (512) 892-3000 unity@unitychurchaustin.org Minister: Rev. Anna Shouse Service 11:00 pm “Our God is love,our race is human and our religion is oneness.” www.unitychurchaustin.org
ORTHODOX
St. Sophia Orthodox Church 225 Rose Dr. in Dripping Springs Fr. Peter Smith, Pastor 512) 638-0721 / pcmsmith@hotmail. com (Fr. Peter’s email) www.stsophiachurch.us Services: Sundays- 8:45 a.m. Orthros (Matins) & 10 a.m. Divine LiturgyWeds- 7p.m. Daily Vespers or other special services according to the season Saturdays- 5:45 pm. Ninth Hour & 6:00 pm Great Vespers and Confession Special feast day services as announced All services are in English and visitors are always welcome. The Orthodox Church is the original, historic, pre-denominational Church of the New Testament. Please join us for worship soon!
PRESBYTERIAN
Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church 5226 W William Cannon 78749 Pastor James Capps Assoc. Pastors Michael Killeen, Britta Dukes Worship Schedule: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
UNITY
UNITY of Lake Travis is here! The new congregation, led by the Rev. John Connor & Rev. Bonnie Connor, meets Sundays at 10:30AM at the Old Bee Cave Schoolhouse, 13333 Texas Hwy 71, Bee Cave TX. (Located behind Shops at the Galleria, next to the Bee Cave fire station.) Visit facebook.com/unitylaketravis for more information, or email John@ ReverendConnor.com. UNITY is a positive, accepting path for spiritual living, based in the teachings and
example of Jesus.
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...19
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...21
City of Austin news City electric utility proposes reduced revenue needs Continued from p. 17 view of rates every five years. Unlike the rates that affect most other areas of the State, Austin Energy’s rates are set in a public process that reflects community values. Austin Energy’s proposed revenue requirements, and its plan to distribute those costs among various rate classes, will be reviewed by an impartial hearings examiner. The hearings examiner will make recommendations to the Austin City Council. Interested community members can participate in the process in a formal or informal way. An independent representative for residential and small business customers was to have been appointed in December, but that process has been delayed.
The next step of the process is to look at different customer classes and determine how the financial responsibility for a total annual cost of some $614 million in base revenues should be distributed. Austin Energy’s base rates were last increased beginning with the October 2012 fiscal year after 18 years without a base rate increase. The utility prior to the increase was experiencing deficits because the revenue being collected was less than the costs to serve the customers. The City Council at the time required rates to be reviewed every five years to prevent a repeat of the past. Austin Energy has experienced positive net earnings every year since the new base rates went into effect.
Austin designated as the world’s only new ‘City of Media Arts’ The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Austin, Texas, the only new ‘City of Media Arts’, making Austin part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. “In Austin, the creative sector is both a vital component of the local economy and an agent in building community identity and livability,” said City of Austin Mayor Steve Adler. “With this designation, we will also introduce the best of Austin’s artists and innovators to a worldwide audience, encouraging exciting new conversations and discoveries.” Austin’s creative sector (music, film, gaming/digital media, nonprofit arts, visual arts, and arts tourism) contributes more than $4.35 billion in economic activity annually and nearly 49,000 permanent jobs. From 2005 to 2010, employment in the
creative sector grew by 25%, faster than the economy as a whole. “We look forward to leveraging our creative community, skill sets, and collective experience to strengthen international relationships and elevate all creative communities,” said Kevin Johns, Director for the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department (EDD), who led the UNESCO Creative Cities application committee including Global Business, Cultural Arts and Music Divisions that submitted the City’s proposal, with support from City of Austin Mayor Steve Adler, City of Austin Arts Commission, and community advisors from the arts, music, film, and digital gaming sectors. “We look forward to establishing opportunities for joint creative industry development with our new partners in the Creative
Cities network. This is a great day for Austin.” In 2013, EDD was awarded an International Economic Development Council Gold Award for its International Economic Development Strategy, designed to strengthen Austin as a world-class business city where trade, finance, technology, and a diverse population enable local business to thrive in the global economy. One of the actions identified was to pursue a designation as a UNESCO Creative City to establish opportunities for joint creative industry development with other member cities. Austin was the only 2015 UNESCO designated City of Media Arts – a reflection of a reputation as an innovative city, and a representation of many artistic disciplines – including visual art, music, film, and digital gaming.
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22 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
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BEST PLACE TO GET INTO A WRECK: Scenic Brook and Hwy. 71, thanks to the construction — or should I say deconstruction. BEST GYM: Dick Nichols Park. It’s free, it’s got a walking/running track, tennis courts, basketball courts and swimming. BEST GROCERY STORE: Anything but the HEB at the Y in Oak Hill. The Dripping Springs HEB is like Disneyland. The one on Escarpment is great, too. But except for the people who work there — Denis, Gouldie, Desmond, Rosa, Sherrie and the entire Pharmacy Department — it’s like shopping in the Soviet Union. BEST PLACE TO BUY OFFSALE BOOZE: Any place where Chris is selling it. BEST VENUE FOR MUSIC: I’m going with Strange Brew. The Backyard isn’t close anymore, the Nutty Brown is gone, and the Rusty Mule and Stubb’s at the Graceland Market are too new. BEST BAND: Whatever Kevin Russell’s got going at the time. Right now, that’s Shinyribs. 2ND BEST BAND: Dr. Dirty Sanchez and his Rusty Trombone. BEST CD: Jesse Vain and the Happy Hour Holiness Movement. (See below.) BEST LONG-RUNNING SHOW: John Magic’s Magic Theatre, running every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. on 13419 Fitzhugh Rd. BEST PLACE FOR AN ARGUMENT: Nextdoor.com. You know why. Because they live in your neigh-
neighborly news
borhood and, therefore, despise you the most. (See below.) BEST SLOGAN FOR A COLUMN: Number one for number two since 2012. That’s right. I know where you’ve been reading me. ••• LOUD MAKES RIGHT: There’s a big debate on NextDoor.com about possible noise coming from Life Austin Church. I gotta tell you. I’ve never heard it, and I live on Scenic Brook Dr., but I have heard the Jesse Vain band rehearse. Still, it’s never loud enough to hear the words so… TURN IT UP, WITCHY PEOPLE. Here’s Steve Lambert’s take on the subject of Life Austin Church and its ongoing feuds: “Whether it be Oreos on a table or chickens on the counter, we all have to live with neighbors (and their kids and dogs). Some times they have garage sales every weekend, some times they loudly curse but aren’t recognizable in different context, sometimes they cover a formerly green hillside with houses side by side on former Texas Ranger land and then complain about the view of their buildings down below, and that someone may build in the fields and green space they overlook but don’t own. “As their light pollution dims the stars that once nightly shown more brightly, they complain about the sounds of rejoicing that interrupt the sanctity of their peace and quiet. [Are the people who call for noise reduction] wearing the cape of neighborhood protector, whether it’s
from Senior Buddy’s or Life Austin Church? Are they the good neighbor — the neighborly neighbor on NextDoor.com? Or is it the Pastor who’s trying to invite kids and adults to special events and celebrations, dog parks and trails, inspirational NFL players and contemporary praise bands? “Once we’re here, no one can change what’s around us even though we don’t own their property or the surrounding land. Because when they build or change their own, ours won’t be the same as what we had before. We’ve got ours and that should be it, stop the influx of others that might change “ours” as they try to get their own. National stage or local neighborhoods or just neighbor NextDoor — how do we learn to get along and treat each other civilly even when we disagree? “Please give us the answers Mike!” Steve, I’m stumped. I really don’t have the answers. So I talked to my friend DT. He told me we should probably stop allowing Christians into Oak Hill until we can figure this all out. “You have no choice,” he said. “You simply have no choice.” ••• JESSE VAIN AND THE HAPPY HOUR HOLINESS MOVEMENT CD: It’s quite good. Quite. What would you call it? Gospel-like Americana? Christian Rock? Gothic Gospel? Beats me. But I’ve heard a lot of Austin music and this album rings true. Continued on page 26
Austin Independent School District news Continued from page 13 with peer districts, and the U.S. Secretary of Education John King and his staff to share knowledge and best practices to launch and sustain a multi-sector, multi-tiered community-wide program to support students and communities. The Initiative’s aim is for schools
to create a positive, welcoming environment where all students know they are wanted in class and are missed when they aren’t there. Though the program is specifically designed to increase attendance and course performance, and to promote positive behavior, it goes further to gain a deeper understanding of
what drives chronic absences, poor behavior and low performance. “While the end result is increased performance and success for students, we want to understand the root causes so we can better create the program or support to address each need,” Cruz said.
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...23
Civic Agenda, cont. from p. 2 Hampton Branch Library, 5125 Convict Hill Rd Building on lessons learned during the drought, Austin Water is proposing to move to a permanent one-dayper-week watering schedule. This would mark a significant change for our community and we are seeking your input as we move this proposal forward to City Council. Watering restrictions are our biggest water savings measure and the one-day-perweek restrictions, along with positive community response, were critical in keeping the Highland Lakes above emergency levels during the worst parts of the drought. Austin Water believes that permanent one-day-perweek restrictions are a sound direction for our community. They seek your input and participation to put together a package that best protects our water resources in these challenging times.
Letter, from p.2
Oak Hill Association of Neighborhoods monthly meeting Wed., Jan. 13 at 7:00pm Austin Community College, 10th Floor, 7748 U.S. 290 For more information and to download an agenda, go to ohan.org. Find volunteer opportunities at GivePulse.com City of Austin leaders have announced a partnership with GivePulse, a local civic good startup, to make it easier for Austinites to find volunteer opportunities. The online tool at GivePulse.com, matches community members and service-learning students who want to make a difference with nonprofits and organizations seeking volunteers On GivePulse, residents can register to be notified of volunteer opportunities that interest them from the City of Aus-
Austin, Texas is known as the Music begin taking calls on their own. The monthly requirement is 4 four-hour Capitol of the World – we are blessed shifts per month (16 hours). During with a league of superb musical talent these shifts, volunteers are “on-call” – music-music-music. Folks living throughout the civilized and must be prepared to respond to a request for assistance immediately. world still yearn to share the peaceful Volunteers must be of excellent moral beauty the surfaces during this reflecstanding and have the sensitivity and tive family time every year – let our self-awareness required to provide spirits soar, our burdens lighten as we come together and lift our voices effective assistance to those in crisis. Volunteers must be 21 or older, have in song. O Holy Night, The Little Volunteer with the Travis County a reliable vehicle and have a working Drummer Boy, Away in the Manger, Sheriff ’s Office- Victim Services Unit cell phone. They must also be able to White Christmas, We Three Kings and Volunteers with the Victim Services attend the required three week train- Silent Night. As families gather together in celeUnit of the Travis County Sheriff’s ing (Mondays 6pm-9pm, Thursdays Office assist Victim Services staff on 6pm-9pm, Saturdays 9am-5pm for bration each year, recognize the empty chair at the table that last year was the front lines of crisis intervention! three consecutive weeks). They provide immediate response For more information, go to www. occupied by a loved one. Realize also to victims of various criminal and tcsheriff.org/victim-services/volun- that our world is filled with menacing crisis circumstances. Volunteers must teers or contact the TCSO Victim violence. Recognize also, that God fills our world with miracles. Peace on earth complete a comprehensive trainingOakServices Volunteer Coordinator Hill Gazette October 4- October at 17, 2012... 23 program AND must be accompanied Amy.durall@co.travis.tx.us or 512- begins with me and you. — Shirrell Hipp on a series of call outs before they can 854-48492. tin and several Central Texas agencies. Volunteer opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing activities for individuals, youth and large groups. City departments often rely on volunteers to provide an enhanced level of public service. Needs include youth sports coaches, docents, dog walkers, tree-planters and volunteers to help seniors in library computer labs.
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24 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
OHAN awards Citizen of the Year Continued from p. 1
Neighborhood Association An avid bicyclist, Thayer is a Houston native who moved to Oak Hill in 2003. He works for the state. The recipient is chosen each year by the OHAN board. President Darryl Pruett said Thayer’s selection was unanimous. Pruett cited two reasons for Thayer’s selection: His extraordinary efforts to improve the community His many years of service to the Oak Hill community OHAN treasurer Alan Watts added, “Tom is driven by his passion for the Oak Hill community. He has sacrificed thousands of thankless hours in all the different capacities he serves, so we hope this award shows how much the community appreciates his work.” Neighbor and friend Beki Halpin said of Thayer, “He is a good-humored, hard-working, creative problem solver and one of the nicest
We are lucky to have Tom as such an enduring champion for our part of town.” - Beki Halpin people on the planet.” She credits Thayer with a positive attitude and objectivity that allows all sides to be heard. Halpin added, “Tom’s humble persona masks the mighty work he has done on highway, trails, bike, land use, development and parks issues throughout Oak Hill. We are lucky to have Tom as such an enduring champion for our part of town.” Carol Cespedes, another of Thayer’s friends and neighbors, said, “I have known Tom as a guy we can always call on for neighborhood or environmental causes.” She added, “Tom is about as involved as a citizen can get short of running for public office. OHAN has made an excellent choice this year.” Thayer’s friends say he not only talks about the importance of the
environment, but he lives it as well—using his bike or public transit to commute to his job downtown. Cespedes said this passion led to OHAN also presenting Thayer with the “Hippie Award” for the lowest carbon footprint. Bicycle issues are so important to Thayer that he came to the OHAN holiday party directly after speaking before the Urban Transportation Commission, which advises the Austin City Council on issues concerning transportation. Thayer said he was surprised by the honor. “It was a great Christmas present,” he told the Gazette. “It was really neighbors like Carol Cespedes and Beki Halpin who helped get me involved in the local neighborhood, and it has taken off from there.”
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Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...25
Gazette Classifieds HELP WANTED EMPLOYMENT NOTICE
Dripping Springs Ranch Park Maintenance Position The City of Dripping Springs is accepting applications for a fulltime Dripping Springs Ranch Park Maintenance position. For a complete job description and application visit www.cityofdrippingsprings.com To submit a resume and application, email ldickinson@ cityofdrippingsprings.com, mail to PO Box 384, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 or deliver to City Hall. For more information call Dripping Springs Ranch Park Manager Lynne Dickinson at 512-858-4725. WAREHOUSE/OFFICE HELPER needed. PT, Flex Schedule (4-6 hrs/ day) Must be detailed, dependable, & a multi-tasker.$8-11/hr. D.O.E. Call (512)-844-8730.
PERSONAL ASSISTANT PERSONAL ASSISTANT FOR HIRE— errands, cooking, shopping, housekeeping, gardening, etc. Great references available. Call Valery 512300-1120
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EXCEPTIONAL GUITAR LESSONS- There is no substitute for a private instructor. Learn Music Theory while learning guitar from a Pro. Any genre. Early intermediate to advanced. I’ll teach you the logic and symmetry of the instrument. Leon Rodriguez, Performance & Lessons (512)587-9231. www.reverbnation. com/leonrodriguez.
MITSUBISHI STEREO SYSTEM ($195.00) complete with: Quartz Synthesizer Tuner; Turn table; Stereo Graphic Equalizer; Radio AM/FM; Tape deck; Two oak speaker cabinets with 12” speakers, woofers, etc. System is in excellent condition. Contact: gtrim@austin.rr.com for further information or photos.
CEMETERY PLOTS Cemetery plot, Garden of Peace, Vet. 2, Cook Walden Forest Oaks in Oak Hill, $3000. Call Scarlett Scott 512-288-4265.
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26 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Veritas Academy wins State Title in 6-Man Continued from p. 16
to a 45-point mercy rule. In the history of its varsity football program, the Defenders have made the playoffs every year and have never lost a playoff game to anyone other than the eventual state champion. Previous athletic state champion-
developing a 97 acre campus in far southwest Austin. One-quarter of all the academy’s graduates to date— and one-third of the 2015 senior class—have earned National Merit
recognitions. In its only six years to have a high school comprised of more than one grade level, Veritas has been crowned TAPPS academic state champion three times and
runner-up twice, complementing its multiple other state championships in fine arts and athletics.
ships at Veritas have been won in soccer and tennis, with individual state champions/medalists in golf, tennis, swimming, and wrestling. Veritas Academy is a ten-yearold classical, Christian, university-model school of 574 students in grades PreK-12 and is currently
Veritas Academy capped its undefeated season on December 3rd with a twenty point victory in the state championship game against Live Oak Classical School of Waco at Bastrop Memorial Stadium.
The Word from Oak Hill Continued from page 22 You can find out for yourself here: jessevain.bandcamp.com • • • BEST JINGLE THAT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH OAK HILL: To the tune of the “Nationwide is on your side” jingle — “Peyton Manning’s on the bench.” ••• BYE-BYE EVERYONE: It’s been a nice three years writing this neighborhood column that’s
neighborly news
geographically just to the right of Roger. Some interesting characters have appeared on Page 5 of this newspaper, such as Rick the Realtor, Tim the night manager of Kerbey Lane, Councilmember Foxterrier, the Witchy People, Chris who works at an undisclosed location, Shannon, Tom, Jack, Ashley and Toby at Jack Allen’s, Jim Turney, the dog that looks like a fox, Mike Jordan, Melissa the bartender, and the late, great Gary Hunt. Wait, hold on. It appears Gary’s
still alive (as of this writing) but he moved to San Antonio, so you know. He’s in the other place. Anyway, if you want to keep up with me and my creative endeavors, by all means check out mikejasper.com (at your own risk) or — for music and other audio things — soundcloud. com/themikejasper. Like The Old Ball Coach said, “I quit, but I didn’t retire.” Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and have a nice life. Cheers!
Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015 ...27
Amphitheater battle continues Continued from p. 1 The fight was taken to the city’s Board of Adjustments (BOA) on Dec. 9, with both sides well represented in the audience. Greg Guernsey, Planning and Development Review Department Director, who approved the amphitheater, said the BOA must find a “reasonable doubt or difference of interpretation” to overturn his decision, and he does not believe one exists. After the hearing, the BOA opted to postpone a decision until February to allow both sides to come to a compromise. Some of the complaints from local residents express anger that they were left out of the city’s decision to allow the amphitheater to be built at all. Others say that the volume of the music can be heard at or in their homes. Pastor Randy Phillips of LifeAustin told the Gazette, “The BOA meeting
was insightful and promising. I definitely look forward to meeting with neighbors. The BOA meeting was a clear opportunity for us to find middle ground. This can be a win-win for everyone.” David VanDelinder, who lives on Midwood Parkway, is a resident concerned about the noise. Despite the checks performed by the city, he said, “The music is terribly disruptive to many families and irritating to others. It can be heard by hundreds of families in four neighborhoods surrounding the church.” VanDelinder said topography and atmosphere could affect which residents are affected. He said, “We are willing to meet with the church to discuss solutions, as we have always been. I think any noise mitigation solutions at this point will cost the church some money. We will see if they are willing to negotiate in the spirit that the BOA anticipates.” The neighborhoods’ attorney,
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Robert Kleeman, said, “The sound impacts are far worse than I ever imagined.” Yet the closest residents claim noise is not a factor for them. Debra Kretzschmar, who lives on Highway 71, said, “We don’t really hear it—the sound must go over us.” In a report by the city of a sound check performed on June 4, the unidentified author wrote, “There were rumors going around in the neighborhoods that someone measured a level of 100 decibels in the neighborhood and some of the neighbors were obviously upset at this news.
“The music is terribly disruptive to many families and irritating to others. It can be heard by hundreds of families in four neighborhoods surrounding the church.” - David VanDelinder, neighbor Just by evaluating factual data, this is near impossible to achieve that far away from the venue…. There does not appear to be an impact from the amphitheater in the Covered Bridge neighborhood, no sound was audible during the test.” Regarding Hill Country Estates,
the report said, “…the neighbors immediately to the west of the LifeAustin Church property line can hear music in the area, therefore, is impacted to some extent. Excessive noise is subjective when measured at low levels and what one considContinued on next page
28 ...Oak Hill Gazette December 17 - January 6, 2015
Amphitheater battle continues Continued from p. 1 ers a nuisance another may not, neither is right or wrong. As far as the requirements of state law and city ordinance, the sound levels are significantly lower at the property line than what is allowed.” The report concludes that the church has taken care in the design and orientation of the structure, as well as its sound mitigation “above and beyond what is required.” But it concludes, “…however, people in parts of the neighborhood are impacted by sound coming into the area. I can only hope the two entities
involved can come to an agreement.” Kleeman also expressed concern about the scope of activities being held in the amphitheater. He said, “Also of concern is the position that LifeAustin took at the Board of Adjustment—all the activities at the outdoor amphitheater constitute a religious assembly use because the events either provide funding to LifeAustin or attract non-members to the grounds, who can then be asked to become members of LifeAustin. In other words, there is no practical limit to what LifeAustin can do outdoors.”
“The BOA meeting resulted in an incredible opportunity for LifeAustin and some of our neighbors to find middle ground.” - Pastor Randy Phillips
Dennis Broughton, a LifeAustin church member, disagreed with Kleeman’s assessment of what was said at the meeting. “What we did say and the facts are that the amphitheater is used for religious assembly including praise and worship events, consistent with the conditions imposed on the church by the City of Austin,” he said.
Broughton added that the church has initiated discussions with the neighbors in an attempt to address their concerns. Stressed Phillips, “We are serious about finding middle ground.” Phillips added, “The BOA meeting resulted in an incredible opportunity for LifeAustin and some of our neighbors to find middle ground.
BOA Chairman Burchardt issued a challenge to both parties that we take very seriously: ‘The amphitheater is built, it is operational, it is in compliance... find middle ground with the neighbors.’ We have already begun having conversations with community representatives. No doubt we will find a peaceful resolution.”
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