Summer 2014
Elgin, Texas
Western Days PARADE, PAGEANTS, DANCING, HORSESHOES, SOFTBALL, & LOTS MORE inElgin Miss Western Days page 1
Calendar of Events page 8 Summer Reading Program page 13 4th of July Parade page 15
d
2013-14 Miss Western Days d Queen’s Court
Alexis Martini Briana Pruneda Eleanor Bristoll
Shelby Bray
Mary Wnek
Photographed at the Coupland Dancehall, Restaurant and Inn
WESTERN d 2
Chamber of Commerce News By: Gena Carter, President
Western Days is almost here! This will be the 45th year for this annual summer festival, and plans are being made to make it the best one ever! Western Days Festival is truly a hometown event that offers something for everyone! Below is a brief update and description of a few of the favorite activities. For more detailed information on any of these events, please call the Chamber office at 285-4515 or visit the website at www. elgintxchamber.com.
Miss Western Days Queen/ Tiny Tot Pageant One of the longest traditions of Western Days is the Miss Western Days Pageant. This event is combined with the Tiny Tot Pageant. It will be held at the Elgin High School cafeteria at 7pm on Tuesday, June 24. Girls in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades will compete for Miss Western Days. In the Tiny Tot Pageant, girls ages 18 months – 5 years will compete in three categories for the title. The queen and her court will lead the parade and preside over the Western Days activities during the week.
Western Days Family Night Join us in Memorial Park at 6pm on Thursday, June 26 to kick off the arrival of the carnival. There will be ride specials throughout the evening. The carnival will continue to be open through Saturday, January 28th.
Friday Night Dance The Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a free tennis court dance on Friday night in Memorial Park from 7pm11pm. Local favorite band, the Allen Lee Band (formally known as The Crop Dusters), will start the evening’s entertainment, followed by another favorite, the Austin English Band. So grab your hat, shine your cowboy boots, and come out and join the fun!
Grand Parade The Parade will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 28. The parade starts on 11th Street and proceeds on Main Street through downtown. This parade is one of the largest parades in the Central Texas area.
Arts, Crafts and Food Booths
Horseshoe / Washer Tournament This event is one of the longest running traditions at the festival. It is a popular event that always draws a large crowd of participants and spectators. Sign-up early, the tournament is limited to 20 teams. Winners will receive cash and prizes.
There will be over 100 vendors. Some of the best artists and craftsmen in the state will be participating. The food court area will be offering delicious festival food favorites including funnel cakes, kettle corn, sausage wraps, turkey legs, fajitas and so much more.
Entertainment In The Park
Volleyball Tournament
Children’s Activities
This popular event is always a crowd favorite. The first 8 teams to sign up and pay their entry fee will be eligible to compete for the championship title as well as prizes.
Softball Tournament Competition will be tough as teams compete for trophies and prizes in this popular event. This is a co-ed tournament that always offers plenty of exciting action for the participants and fans.
This year’s entertainers offer something for everyone. There will be musical entertainment including: Monty Thomas Family, Pearl, Matizz, Shop Dawgz, Annie & Kate, and Bob & Hannah Ojeda. This year the children’s area will be packed with activities including: pony rides, petting zoo, human hamster balls, kiddie train, and bungee jump.
Class Reunions Numerous Elgin High School class reunions will take place during Western Days. The S.P.J.S.T. Lodge 18 will be open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 for all class reunions.There will be a free dance from 8 p.m. - midnight at Elgin S.P.J.S.T Hall with Pure Country Band.
DAYS d
Although the Greater Elgin Chamber of Commerce “officially” sponsors Western Days, it is a joint community effort. It takes many hours of volunteer labor and financial support to have a successful Festival. Over 100 businesses and individuals have committed to be sponsors and volunteers for this event. Through their generosity, this is sure to be the best Western Days ever! Make plans now to join us!!
3
Sponsoring Organizations City of Elgin, Elgin Main Street Board Elgin Chamber of Commerce Elgin Economic Development Corporation Publication Committee Gena Carter, Amy Miller, Sonia Browder, Shirley Bowlin, Peggy Garza Art/Design Director Sonia Browder, Enye Creative
WESTERN SS S
S
Western Days Friday Night Dance June 27
Advertising Sales Elgin Chamber of Commerce Contributing Writers Gena Carter, Elgin Chamber of Commerce Amy Miller, City of Elgin Shirley Bowlin, Jacquelin’s Interiors, Sonia Browder
8 p.m. ALLEN LEE BAND (formerly the Crop Dusters)
Contributing Photographer Sonia Browder for Lordni Design Proofreaders Amy Miller, Peggy Garza, Shirley Bowlin, Gena Carter, Ryan Faurot Circulation Linda Bradley Postmaster
JUNE 2006
Elgin, Texas
WESTERN DAYS
COMING SOON!
I SPY...WIN A FREE WESTERN DAYS GIFT PACKAGE! DETAILS INSIDE!!
ART & ARTISAN SHOWCASE ELGIN STYLE!
4TH of JULY ACTIVITIES JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION CHALK IT UP! 100 YEARS of the ELGIN COTTON OIL MILL
Your comments and ideas are welcome and encouraged. Please email us at info@elgintxchamber.com.
10 p.m. AUSTIN ENGLISH BAND
For advertising opportunities, please contact us at (512)285-4515. For digital copies, go to www.elgintx.com.
ñ
(en•ye)
4
Design and Layout by Sonia Browder for Enye Creative. Elgin, Texas 78621 • 350-3861
SS
SS
LIVESMUSIC S
C
DAYS S S
S
S
Veterinary care for: Family Dogs & Cats!
Western Days Entertainment Saturday, June 28 Power Tumbling Performance by Tuck N Tumble
1399 HWY 290W (next to ACC on 290)
11:30 a.m. MONTY THOMAS 12:30 p.m. ELGIN’S OWN N.J.
Now accepting new clients
12:45 p.m. PEARL
Elgin
Taylor
2 p.m. Matizz
Bring in this ad and receive Bastrop 25% off your pet’s spay or neuter. Manor
(512) 285-3375 www.elginfamilypetcenter.com
3:15 p.m. SHOP DAWGZ
4:15 p.m. ANNIE & KATE
SS
SS
5:00 p.m. BOB & HANNAH OJEDA
SS
Yegua Creek Farms Pecan Orchard & Kitchen
Pecans, Breads, Cookies, Flavored Pecans, Gift Baskets, Firewood, Bar-B-Q Chips, Mulch.
Gene & Eileen Niswander (817)929-2789 • (512)856-0192 Elgin, Texas www.yeguacreekfarms.com 5
“I like ACC because of the friendly helpful staff!”
Dalia Munoz, BBA Admissions and Records Supervisor
Debby, continuing education student
Araceli Gutierrez Work Study Student
ACC Elgin campus is connecting hundreds of students of all ages to continuing education and technical certifications. Here Betsy Erwin, Campus Manager shares the students’ perspectives on having continuing education opportunities in our own back yard.
“The staff in the Welcome Center were so nice. They all went out of their way and even stayed late to help me register for classes this summer. This makes me feel welcome and very happy to know that they are doing their best to help the students.”
“ ACC is a great experience for people leaving High School or leaving 9-5 jobs to come back to a great institution to better themselves. I will be back.” Amos Hobson
Josef, new student
“ACC Elgin is Beautiful Campus, with friendly people and a great atmosphere.” Yolanda Gibson Financial Aid Campus Supervisor
“I think that ACC is great. They have helped me get back in school and have made it easy – with all the questions I’ve had as far as my using my post 9/11 GI bill.” Johnathan, returning student
6
Henry Leal Assessment and Academic Testing Center Supervisor
Sherelle Nolan, recent Elgin High School graduate
Mirosalva Zuñiga Sr. Administrative Assistant Student Services Patricia Sanchez, MA, LPC, LCDC Assistant Professor/Counselor (Bilingual) Student Services
You can take classes at ACC Elgin campus too! Drop by the campus on Hwy 290 at County Line Road and check things out in person or visit http://www.austincc.edu/ locations/campuses/elgincampus
FAMILY DENTAL CARE Providing comprehensive dental care in a friendly and relaxed environment since 1977.
Coffee with the Superintendent Dr. Jodi Duron Elgin ISD Superintendent
r
Hiring for vacant and new positions. With retirements, resignations, promotions, and newly approved positions, district and campus administrators stay busy looking for and recruiting the best candidates to serve our students.
&
Dr. Carl Herring Dr. Scott Herring
Looking from the outside-in, Elgin ISD may seem to be a low-key environment during the summer months. However, getting ready for the new school year encompasses a range of activities. Here is a glimpse into what we will be doing. Summer Feeding Program Elgin ISD serves as a summer feeding program site (a program instituted by the Texas Department of Agriculture to ensure students in low-income areas would continue to receive nutritional meals during the summer months.) This summer we will have three sites serving breakfast and lunch: Neidig Elementary, Elgin Middle School, and Elgin High School.
x
New Patients & Children Always Welcome.
306 North Hwy 95, Elgin, Tx 512.285.3322 / 512.281.3321 www.elginfamilydental.com
Q
Organizing summer activity programs
We are working with the Boys and Girls Club from Bastrop to offer an 8-week summer program for $50 for 100 elementary students in Grades 1-5 and we introduced Camp Invention, focusing on real-world challenges that encourages students to solve problems and present their ideas through science themed, engaging hands-on-investigation. This targets 100 elementary students in Grades 1-5. Developing and aligning curriculum with new resources and state standards.
1
Preparing our back to school convocation and staff development
i
Registering As a growing district, we are enrolling new students on a daily and weekly basis.
This is “Our Wildcat Family Reunion.” It is a time to welcome new members to our family, reconnet with returning members, and prepare our hearts and minds for what lies ahead.
I
Cleaning, Painting, and repairing campus facilities
o
C
{
Offering ongoing professional development
Many teachers take training during their summer vacation months. Examples of training areas include: instructional technology, specific academic content areas, curriculum development and design, changing standards and new instructional material adoptions.
Facilitating Summer School Promotion and course credit is based on mastery of the curriculum. Sometimes summer school is needed/required to ensure mastery is achieved. Per state requirements, students in the 5th and 8th grades who did not successfully pass their math and/or reading STAAR test will be required to attend summer school. The same is true for any high school student that did not pass an End-of-Course (EOC) exam required for graduation purposes. Other students who may need to attend summer school for accelerated instruction includes students in grades 1-8 who failed 2 or more core courses and high school students that need to recover credits for graduation. For details regarding this year’s summer school program, parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school counselor.
7
ELGIN SUMMER ACTIVITIES On Going Events Every Saturday 9am to 1pm River Valley Farmers Market Veterans’ Memorial Park www.rivervalleyfarmersmarket.com Every Tuesday @ 10:30am-11:30am Story Time & Lap Sit Program Elgin Public Library Every 2nd Tuesday @ 2:00pm-4:00pm Afternoon Book Club Elgin Public Library Every Wednesday @ 4:30 pm, Craft Day Elgin Public Library Every 3rd Thursday @ 6:00 pm, Family Movie Night Elgin Public Library Every 1st Saturday from February to November Market Days For information on booth spaces or to participate in this event, call Aletha Krebs at 512-285-4025 Elgin Memorial Park
JUNE
Thursday, June 12 Movies in the Park MONSTERS UNIVERSITY Sponsored by Friends of Elgin Parks 8:30pm Elgin Memorial Park Friday, June 13 Juneteenth Street Dance Depot Street Downtown 8pm - Midnight Juneteenth Festival Committee For more information, contact Bettye Lofton at 512-963-2721 Saturday, June 14 Juneteenth Parade & Celebration Veterans’ Memorial Park Downtown Juneteenth Festival Committee For more information, contact Bettye Lofton at 512-963-2721 Thursday, June 19 Movies in the Park DESPICABLE ME Sponsored by Friends of Elgin Parks 8:30pm Elgin Memorial Park Tuesday, June 24 Miss Western Days Queen/ Tiny Tot Pageant 7 pm Elgin High School
Thursday, June 26 Western Days Family Night @ Carnival 7-11pm Elgin Memorial Park Friday, June 27 Western Days Free Tennis Court Dance 8pm - Midnight Elgin Memorial Park Saturday, June 28 Western Days Parade, Festival & Carnival 10am-6pm Elgin Memorial Park & Downtown
JULY
Thursday, July 3 CHALK IT UP! Veterans’ Memorial Park Downtown Friday, July 4 Fourth of July “Push, Pedal and Pull People’s Patriotic Parade” & Celebration City Hall & Downtown Elgin
AUGUST
Freedom Fund Banquet For more information, contact Bettye Lofton at bettyelofton@prodigy.net
McDade Watermelon Festival
July 11-12 Se Habla Español! Matricula Aceptado.
www.mcdadetexas.com
8
tt
Sandy O this photo by
( What’s in it for you?
www.RiverValleyFarmersMarket.com
The Very Freshest Fruits and Veggies
The Elgin Library The Elgin Public Library Summer Reading program includes options for all ages. We asked some of the patrons what they love about the Elgin Library and its programs. “The library’s summer teen reading program is one of the best experiences of learning new things that will also make you want to ask questions and give ideas of how it works or how it helps the world or the community.
Sat. 9 a.m. - 2-p.m. Saturday 9am 1pm Find us on FaceBook
Downtown Elgin @ the Gazebo Year-round Market
When I first got in the program we went to places like Corpus Christi to see the (Texas State) Aquarium. Then we went to Sea Lab where they do their projects of investigating and analyzing the ocean water. They also taught us how to analyze the water. At the library we would do research and experiments. By the end we presented them to others. So that’s why I like to encourage (others) to go to the program and learn something new.” Alex Mendoza, participant in the teen program “I love that the library has a teen program. Especially for my 13 year old I feel that because my daughter is involved she can benefit from so many things such as learn about power of teamwork, how to motivate others, how to make better decisions and communicate effectively. I couldn’t be happier with how Melinda gets these kiddos involved. The whole children’s program is wonderful also.” Angela Ramirez, parent “We love the new community we live in and a wonderful reason for that is because of the bountiful treasures we have discovered at our local Library. Operating as more than a building but rather a beacon full of knowledge, community and opportunity with events and resources to all. Truly a treasure to all especially this family of bookworms.” Lori Musick, Parent
2012
Voted Best Real Estate Company 8 Years Running! Jeanette Shelby, Voted BEST REALTOR®
REALTORS® ready to go to work for you.
Here To Meet Your Buying, Selling or Rental Needs!
An Award Winning Company Specializing In:
“Service and Compassion from a Family That Genuinely Cares.” Josh andJosh Jamie Hausladen Hausladen Directors Director 712 N. Avenue C Elgin, Texas 78621 512-281-5697
• Residential • Farm & Ranch • Land/Lots • Commercial • Property Management • Rentals (First row, l-r)Elizabeth Martinez, Office Assistant; Jeanette Shelby, Owner/Broker; (second row, l-r) Pete Bega, REALTOR®; Kay Silkenson, Office Manager; (third row, l-r) Josh Carrillo Chief Office Assistant; Sandy Smith, REALTOR®; (fourth row, l-r) Dianna Hooyboer, Receptionist; Kelly Shoulders-Koenning, REALTOR®
N. Main St. • Elgin 512-281-3412 •409 15 N.
www.jeanetteshelbyrealty.com
www.elginfuneralhome.net
9
Elgin Public Library Summer Reading Program
2014
June 10th through July 31st
Kim Lehman the Bee Lady
(Newborn - 2 years old) Tuesdays @ 10:45
June 25th @ 3:00
Lapsit Program Dr. Randy M. Robertson (512) 281-4260
NURSING AND REHABILITATION CENTER
Readers Program
Movies:
(6-11 years old) Wednesday @ 3:00
(12-18 year olds) Thursdays @ 5:00
Old Fogies
(anyone over 18) Dr. Who visits the Old Fogies Tea Saturday August 9th @ 2:00 for all that complete their Tic-Tac-Toe Reading Card
Summer Programs for Children
Skilled Nursing Care Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Respiratory Therapy Wound Care
Clubs: Lego Club
Medicare, Medicaid and Private Insurance.
“Resident Care”
We invite you to see the (512)285-2457 difference for yourself! Give 1373 North Ave. C us a call and schedule a tour Elgin, Texas 78621 at your convenience. www.ElginNursingRehab.com
Tuesdays @ 3:00 June 10th to July 29th
Art Club
(painting, drawing, and crafts) Thursdays @ 1:00 June 12th to July 31st
Disney Classics
Wednesdays @ 12:00 June 11th ...................... Bambi June 18th ..................... Cinderella June 25th .................... Peter Pan July 9th ....................... Snow White July 16th ...................... Pinocchio July 23rd ..................... Batman Special activities in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Batman will start @ 11:00 July 30th .................... Jungle Book 2
ADULT PROGRAMS Afternoon Book Club Second Tuesday of the month @ 2:00
Need a Job? Come to Class! Monday sessions from 10:00 to 1:00 June 2nd to July 21st This project is made possible by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Dual Language
This program is part of a Literacy Initiative Grant funded by the Texas Book Festival
Apply now for affordable classes at your ACC Elgin campus. Start Here. Get There.
July 23rd @ 3:00
Monday 6:00 to 8:00 from June 2nd to December 8th Come join the fun! = Unique learning experience that teaches both English & Spanish = Learn the vocabulary you need for home, school & business = Potlucks & bilingual movies (based on popular books)
#1 college for transfer to UT and Texas State
10
The Buzz about Bees Lucas Miller the Singing Zoologist
Young Adult Program
ELGIN
will present
Toddler/Preschoolers Storytime (3-5 years old) Tuesday @10:30
PREVENTATIVE CARE • IMPLANTS • COSMETIC
Performers:
austincc.edu/fall
Elgin Public Library 404 N. Main St. Elgin, TX 78621 512-281-5678
It’s a Beach Party Saturday, July 19 10 a.m.
vided photos pro
ourier by Elgin C
Each summer, the City of Elgin hosts “Beach Party.” This year, the fun celebration falls on Saturday, July 19. The Beach Party is a great way to cool off in the hot Texas sun. There is a giant, inflatable water slide, ice cold fresh watermelon, volleyball, and the chance to build your very own sandcastle! Erin Flores, who has attended every Beach Party, shared “the kids thoroughly enjoy themselves. It’s great to see the sandcastles the kids make – adults too.” Be sure not to miss out on this free event – mark your calendars now!
Follow us on Instagram @visitelgintx
11
Larry Gonzalez
With Western Days fast by Sonia Browder approaching, I thought it would be interesting to step into the life of a cowboy for a brief moment. It is a difficult task wrangling in a full description of the life of a cowboy. With these interviews, I gained much respect for the life they live. Here are some snapshots of 3 local cowboys.
Rex Sandifer
A SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY Mom’s father was Ollie Weston, one of the best horsemen in south Texas. Growing up, I thought everybody rode horses and chased cattle. I didn’t know any different. We’d hunt deer and hogs. We lived off the land. It was a family thing. I compete in some cattle cutting and roping competitions, do clinics, demonstrations, & seminars.
A SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY
Do you consider yourself a cowboy?
Yes, because I train horses and compete in rodeos. In years past, I’ve worked cattle for other people and run cattle of my own. For several generations, my family has owned cattle and horses. If I’m not one, there are a lot of people who say they are and aren’t.
What kind of work do you do?I train roping horses and bird dogs. I compete in rodeos and ropings during the spring and summer, and I guide quail hunts during the winter in South Texas.
How did you get started?I was raised
on a ranch and helped my dad with the cattle work when I was just a kid. I learned to ride at an early age. My dad was a fulltime rancher, and I worked with him from the time I was 9-10 years old. At that same time, I started learning how to rope and began to compete. During the drought of the 50’s, there was a screw worm epidemic. We cared for about 150 head of cows near Webberville, and we would leave the house early in the morning and doctor cattle until early afternoon. I continued to compete through high school and qualified to go to the National High School Rodeo Finals in Ogalala, Nebraska. I started breaking and training horses for people to help pay my tuition at the University of Texas. After I graduated from UT, I went to work for the State Comptroller’s Office and stayed there until I retired, but I continued to train horses, run cattle and compete in rodeos on the weekends. Now, that I’ve retired, I’m able to train horses and rodeo all the time.
12
Do you consider yourself a cowboy? I was raised on a horse working beside my uncle and my dad on a ranch in South Texas between Alice and George West, Anna Rose. I rode horses and did cattle. Both grandpas were well known for working with horses. Dad’s father was Manuel Gonzalez. He ran a ranch in South Texas.
Do you have any advice for those who want to be cowboys?
Start young. Spend as much time on horseback as you can. Always be willing to learn from someone else. I think it’s important to always seek out people who are better at something than you are. And, there will always be someone who is better no matter how good you get to be. You’ll need a good work ethic. You have to be willing to work hard at it every day. And, not just at roping and riding. But, also, at being a good caretaker of the animals. They’ll need care 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Is there anything that the public should know about being a cowboy that they might not have gotten from the movies?The main thing is that the life of a real cowboy is not all glamorous. Whether it be a ranching or a rodeoing cowboy, a lot of it is just hard work.
Who’s your favorite cowboy and why?My dad, Morris Sandifer. He
was very, very good at both sides of it – the rodeoing and the ranching. But, he was never a boastful man, and he was always willing to help you learn. My dad was lucky enough to be able to rope calves until he was 80 years old.
What can I compare it to? It’s like running a daycare - almost. What advice do I have to give someone about being a cowboy?It’s not all swimming pools and sunglasses. No short cuts. It’s a lot of hard work. There are hardly any “real” cowboys left. I call an ace an ace and a spade a spade. I learned from the best. Didn’t have time to polish words they just tell it like it is. Tell you the truth sometimes it stings but you learn from it. I’m kind of that way because of it. Job description: a lot of work. I work for the lady that runs the place and that’s my wife. Met at the world show showing horses. She was working in a booth selling tack helping a friend 14 years ago. What is a way of life for a cowboy? A way of life is getting up in the morning, no telling when. You work 24/7. It’s a 24-hour job. If a horse gets stuck in barb wire, or gets upside down - stuck in railing, or a 2 a.m. breach cow is being born, you have to be your own vet. You have to tend to the animals. We have to be knowledgeable. We have been given dominion over the animals. It’s biblical. It takes a great team to become successful at training horses and working cattle. A good association with the owners is key. We all work well with the people surrounding us here. I’ve got good help.We’re just working the cattle and the horses. They break them and get them going good. They do a really good job. Who’s my hero? There are too many to count: If my eyes can see further than others, it’s because I’ve stood on the shoulders of giants. About Larry: He’s an excellent teacher, says Jerry Abel. The owner of the place Larry leases to do his work. They’ve just finished a
lesson in cutting. The whole time Larry was instructing Jerry with clear and concise direction. He’d say, “The cow’s always gonna turn around. I promise you.” “Think in reverse.” “Cow, horse and then you.” “Separate with your feet.” “Go to position and rest and relax and wait.” Repeatedly I’d hear him say to Jerry, “Position, position, position.Shape, shape, shape. Feet, feet, feet.” Larry says about his lessons, instead of the negative, I was telling the positive. Focus on the positive not the negative. Flow positive. Instead of saying, “Don’t move,” I say, “Be still.” Make the wrong thing difficult and the right thing easy. Everything we do is biblical. Larry has had to relearn most of what he grew up knowing. 10 years ago, just months after having met Jerry and Marguerite Abel, Larry had a stroke. As the doctor was explaining to his mother all of the limitations of the stroke , Larry’s mother insisted on hearing from the doctor, “Instead of telling us all of the things he can’t do, we want to know what we can do.” She’s a prayer warrior. Can’t doesn’t work. I can. I will and I must does, says Larry. Marguerite follows the interview with a few words of her own. She says, “Larry and Becci are extraordinarily hard-working people. When it gets hotter, their hours will change to 3 a.m. - 10 or 11 a.m.” It makes sense that his recovery was so successful. He works very hard at being a cowboy and that life lesson pours into his marriage, friendships and family. He is without a doubt devoted to God, his wife and his job. He says, “I’m glad I have the opportunity to do what I like and love.”
Terry Cole A SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY Do you consider yourself a cowboy? I have never considered myself to be a cowboy, but I’ve done some things that would make most cowboys pack up and go to the house...My Dad said a couple of times that I was a purty good cowboy when I was well mounted and I considered that a high compliment coming from him. I do think of myself as a fair horseman.... I am reminded of two remarks that were made in casual conversation by my Dad and Grandpa. “A true cowman thinks just as much of his cattle if they are worth ten cents a pound or a dollar a pound.....” Joe Cole. “I would rather have three cows and a one-eyed mule than be foreman of the King Ranch....” Zane Cole. This pretty much sums it up: a fierce independence of spirit and a love of animals and what the work that they do. This is from the two best cowboys that I ever saw....The could have been top hands on any ranch anywhere. Advice on being a cowboy---it takes sand---and a never quit no matter what attitude....and learn from the best....and don’t quit learning....learn something new every time you mount up. What people don’t see in the movies---cowboys cuss--and they are right good at it...going through what a cowboy goes through would cause a preacher to cuss. But the true cowboys 2804 HWY 21 E • Bastrop TX (Across from the State Park) leave it at the Mon-Fri: 10:30 am - 10:00 pm | Sat & Sun: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm www.RoadhouseBastrop.com cow lot.
ting a Decade of Great Food Served Righ a r b e l t! Ce
And who is my favorite cowboy? that’s too easy .... my dad, Zane Cole.
Best Burger in Bastrop Since 2004 & Best French Fries Best Outdoor Seating/Patio Best Overall Restaurant Best Steak
Jalapeno Cream Cheese Burger
One of Texas Monthly’s 50 Best Burgers!
Now Serving Breakfast! Saturday & Sunday at 8am
13
by Amy Miller, Elgin’s Community Development Director
We interviewed Schlotzsky’s, Laura Merritt. Why build a store in Elgin Texas? Elgin is growing leaps and bounds yet it is still small enough to be able to have a personal relationship and know our guests! Elgin has been amazingly open to accepting us and welcoming us into their community. We are so blessed to be accepted as part of this community!
I understand this is a very successful franchise what makes it work so well? It New businesses are opening in Elgin and we talked with the Taco Bell owners group Tacala’s President, Tim Morrison, to find out more about why they are growing in Elgin.
“Tacala is excited to bring Taco Bell back to Elgin, Texas in a new freestanding location”, said Tim Morrison, President of Tacala the local Taco Bell franchisee, “The City of Elgin’s population is increasing, and there is strong economic development as evidenced by a revitalized downtown area, a new Austin Community College campus, and new retail development. The city is growing and we are happy to be a part of that growth.” Tacala is the largest Taco Bell group in the United States and now has 257 locations. The Elgin store will have 25 team members and the group targets promoting from within for management positions. “Elgin residents who are craving Taco Bell signature tastes won’t have to travel to Taylor or Pflugerville anymore. In fact, we can provide morning commuters to Austin with the new Taco Bell breakfast for their commute, and night owls with Fourth Meal. Taco Bell has something for everyone at any time of the day.”
What kind of community projects does Taco Bell support and what can we look forward to in Elgin? Team Tacala charities
14
works with Taco Bell Foundation for teens that focuses on ensuring teens graduate from high school, and does a lot of work with Boys and Girls Club. They just introduced a scholarship program for teen team members going on to post-secondary education, that offers scholarships $1,000 and up.
takes a combination of things to make a franchise successful. 1st Schlotzkys is a great brand! They are very committed to their product and their franchisees which is the 1st step to success. But that alone doesn’t make it successful. From there it takes an owner/operator to believe in the system and follow through with it. We lead by example with the passion we have for the brand. We feel if you are passionate about something and aren’t afraid to show it it can only be passed down.
Seems like everyone loves the bread. What is the secret to the bread?
Our bread is baked Fresh-from-Scratch® in our restaurants every day. We have bakers at the restaurants whose sole job is to ensure our bread and pizza crusts are baked to perfection on a daily basis. Our guests love the fresh-baked taste of our sourdough, jalapeno cheese, rye and wheat breads.
How many employees will the Elgin store have? Ideally we guess needing approximately 25 employees.
What kind of community projects does Schlotzky’s support and what can we look forward to in Elgin? On a national level,
Schlotzsky’s supports JDRF (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), and we contribute to the group each year through a national, month-long fundraiser. The funds collected through this fundraiser ultimately benefit the local chapters and local communities. On a local level we are currently active in the community in bastrop by hosting fundraiser nights for the local schools, providing sponsorship for the multiple athletics, we provide sponsorship for relay for life, as well as many other local organizations and events. We plan on doing the same in Elgin!
4th of July Parade
www.WinklerTeam.com
512-281-3336 For all your real estate needs.
Summer means swimming, fireworks, picnics, backyard barbeques, family and especially on July 4th, a time to remember and honor our country. Bonnie Hughes Sims, Elgin VFW Auxiliary officer and past president with her father James Hughes, World Ward II veteran shares what July 4th means to their family. “Two words come to mind, joy and sadness. Joy that we were born in this country with so many freedoms, and sadness for all the loss of life of those that made those opportunities possible for us. We are very proud to be in this country.” The City of Elgin hosts a 4th of July parade and program annually on July 4th. This year the parade will be at 10am on Friday July 4 and then starts at City Hall, 310 North Main Street. The array of creative, patriotic, non-motorized parade entries is both entertaining and inspiring. The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars participate and the Boy Scouts carry a huge United States Flag. All sorts of wheels are in the parade: Skateboards, scooters, wagons, strollers, bicycles, rollerblades, as well as those on their own two feet or on a four legged equine friend; even pets from parrots to canines join in the fun. Heather Miller, age 11, enjoys the parade every year and often participates with Girl Scout Troop 2334.
“I like that everyone gets together and you can dress up. One year I dressed up as the Statue of Liberty. I like it that everyone is free to do good things, and I am happy that I live in the United States.” Boy Scout Troop 471 and 472 - “What does July 4th mean to you?” *Henry Flowers, 9, Pack 471 - “Justice and patriotism” *David Flowers, 8, Pack 471 - “felt more mature and full of pride’ *Chance Woehl, 8, pack 471 - “that flag was way bigger than I thought it would be” *Evan Allen, Troop 472 - “It was cool to walk under the flag and make it wave like it was on a pole, and that it was really heavy” *Dallas Newlin, 14, Troop 472 - “honored by carrying the flag” *Jaren Mackay, 15, Troop 472 - “I like letting people know that we have scouts here in Elgin” Steven Fonda, 14, Troop 472 - “It was neat being in a parade”
Remember when July 4th In the late 1970s, the Elgin VFW had many all-day 4th of July celebrations, which would include sack races, pea shelling contests, bbq cookoffs, cake walks, music and dancing. Kids would run and play, and the little ones would go out to the patio for games and fun. Anna Belle and August Weisner remember how hot it was - there was no air conditioning - and they had to open all the windows.
Winkler & Company Realtors, Menley Group
113 Central Ave Elgin (512) 229-4002
Have you heard the news? Maxine’s wants to be Elgin’s Hometown Cafe! Some of our recent accolades: Breakfast, Home Cooking & Overall Restaurant Desserts, Chicken Fried Steak, Sandwiches
TexasMonthly
The 40 Best Breakfast Places in Texas (2011) The 40 Best Small Town Cafes in Texas (2008)
We hope you’ll give us the chance to knock your socks off! Hours of Operation: Tu: 11-9 We-Th: 7-9 F-Sa: 7-10 Su: 7-3
Hours of Operation: Sunday & Monday 7-3, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 7-9, Friday & Saturday 7-10
15
PRST STD ECRWSS U.S. Postage PAID EDDM Retai1
ELGIN MAIN STREET BOARD
P.O. Box 591 Elgin, Texas 78621 USA
Ask the Downtowner
Local Postal Customer
by: Shirley Bowlin
Dear Downtowner: What are all the Swedes around here up to these days? I heard something about a museum & a celebration or two. Signed, Ever Curious
RODEO IN JULY
There is a new museum in the works. The historic Newquist home from out in the countryside nearby was donated to New Sweden Lutheran Church and moved close to the church a few years ago. The New Sweden Heritage Center is working on extensive restoration efforts funded totally by donations. Contact the church office at 281-0056 to help! Santa Lucia and her court and tells the story of this sad but joyous legend. A young teenage girl of Swedish descent from one of the congregations is selected to be Santa Lucia for the year. Location TBA.
Swedish Summer Festival – held at the SPJST Hall on June 19 at 5pm. They do the traditional maypole and recognize folks of Swedish descent age 75 and older from the local communities of Elgin, Lund, Kimbro, Manda, New Sweden & Type. The Oldest Swede in attendance will be honored with the presentation of a cane. It is a catered dinner with a Swedish entertainer and a silent auction. Watch the Elgin Courier for info & tickets. Santa Lucia Celebration, December 13 --Bethlehem Lutheran Church, New Sweden Lutheran Church, and The Swedish Association of Elgin sponsor the annual Santa Lucia Celebration at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. This pageant features
Did you know that The Elgin Arts Association, with a paid membership of fewer than 30 members awarded a total of $5000 in scholarships to graduating EHS seniors? The awardees are: Rian Castillo, Alyssa Shelton, Tiffany Villalobos & Ivette MarinSosa. The EAA is a 501(c)3 non-profit and all the monies came from fundraising and local donors. The Elgin Arts Association (EAA) is a non-profit organization of artists, artisans and community members dedicated to furthering artistic understanding and encouraging artistic growth of its members in the greater Elgin, TX community by promoting interest, education, knowledge and skills in the arts. See www.elginartsassociation.com for information on meetings and membership. The Downtowner thinks this is pretty amazing!
July 9th
Tri County Team Roping Free admission to the public
July 10th
4D Barrel Race Free admission to the public
July 11&12th RODEO!!!
$10 Admission 13 & over $5 Admission 6-12 5 & under are free
For additional information visit the
Texas Lost Pines Riding Club website: www.tlprc.org