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Fion is closing due to lack of business Pub/Restaurant could reopen with investors By LYNETTE HAALAND Fion Wine Pub in Steiner Ranch is closing next weekend but there is a chance - if investors come together and details are ironed out - that a restaurant and pub will continue to operate in the same space. “The rumors going around the neighborhood are correct. We plan to close up on Feb. 25,” said Jeffrey Grier, owner. “We have not been able to make enough in this location to cover our basic operating costs,” Grier said. The bistro, wine bar and retail store was started by Josh McKay in 2007. But the business was
not what Grier was led to believe when he bought it from McKay 14 months ago. “It was not as profitable as we thought it would be. Due to litigation I can’t go into further detail on that,” Grier said. He started to pursue the matter legally in late 2011. Another issue is that other restaurants in the area have experienced a downturn in revenue in the later part of 2011. Grier gathered this from various of their vendors including one beer vendor who said his sales were down 50 percent. “With ongoing problems with the economy, people are not spending like they had been even a year ago,” Grier said. The Steiner Ranch father of four is a former IBM techie. Plans are to close Fion on Saturday. But Grier is working with some local investors to continue
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operating a restaurant. “That would give us the capital to do the improvements and upgrades to allow us to continue and improve the overall customer experience,” he said. Renovations would include eliminating most of the retail, which has had low margins and has not contributed much to the business bottom line, Grier said. Additionally, plans would be to unify the bistro and pub space. “We would want it more inviting and less ‘this side, that side’ feel. We’re looking for sort of a happy medium with the more formal dinning room and very casual pub side. We are looking at sort of a chef-inspired Texas pub,” he said. The new place would also serve mixed drinks. A mixed-beverage permit with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is already being sought.
They would also offer an expanded catering business, which is another avenue for revenue at the same time providing a valuable service to the community. “We’re hoping we’ll be able to close up for short period of time do upgrades and then reopen a new establishment with a new name but with the same Chef Albert and GM Melissa,” Grier said. They would want to get the message out that families are welcome and that they will continue to be a friendly neighborhood place with quality service, food and drink. Grier added that the community support is key in making any local restaurant work. “People need to realize the audience here is not as captive as you might think. If you like neighborhood businesses, you need to patronize them for those businesses to stay healthy,” Grier said.
VHS senior’s artwork displayed in principal’s office By LYNETTE HAALAND Vandegrift High School Principal Charlie Little got an idea to fill the bare walls of his office with artwork from students and Senior Emily Rigney’s work caught his eye. “Our walls are so stark I thought why not use our local talent,” Little said. Little and Rigney collaborated on ideas last fall. Little wanted something big and bold and left the rest to Rigney. “I had a lot of ideas at first but then I thought it would be a good idea to do the city where we live,” said Rigney, who used white and black charcoal on the three, city scape murals. She started working on them before Christmas and they were finished by the first of February. “She blew me away with all of her work,” Little said. “The detail and thought she put into it. It is timeless Austin.” Rigney plans on attending the University of North Texas in the fall, majoring in psychology and, you guessed it, studio arts.
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VHS Homecoming Queen breaks back snowboarding By RICH KEITH Four Points News Moriah Gonzalez can't believe she's just been cleared to drive a car again. Only a few days ago, during the Leander ISD winter break, Moriah was in the ICU in Albuquerque, NM. While boarding at Taos Ski Valley, Moriah suffered compression fractures in her L5 and T12 vertebrae, and lesser damage to the above T11 and T10 vertebrae in a bad fall. She had been taking a semiprivate lesson with a snowboard instructor, and near the end of the day they decided to look at the terrain park. Feeling good, but not experienced with terrain parks, Moriah decided to take a chance on smallish ramp just for fun. She hit the ramp with way too much speed and flew up into the air and, losing control, crashed to the ground on her back on hard-packed snow. "I knew right away that something was wrong. I couldn't feel my quadriceps muscles in my legs and I could barely move. I tried to crawl off the snow but fell over," Moriah said. She felt some pain and experienced muscle twitching, but did not lose consciousness. The next hour was chaotic as her parents and brother were unreachable by phone; they were elsewhere on the mountain. "But it was best," she says, "because while on the papoose going down the mountain I didn't panic and I felt a large sense of peace." Later Moriah and her parents learned the extent of her injuries and it was decided to send her by helicopter to Albuquerque. A very stressful moment occurred when Moriah's mom, Dee Dee, was barred from joining her in the helicopter due to load restrictions at high altitude. Dee Dee and her family would have to drive 3 to 4 hours by car. But at the last moment the pilot decided he could take her, and Moriah's helicopter ride began with her mom at her side.
Rich Keith
Moriah Gonzalez, Vandegrift HS senior and first Homecoming Queen, broke her back snowboarding during winter break a few weeks ago. Now in a back brace, she didn't have to lead last week's pep rally but said, "No way am I going to miss out on any Viper spirit!"
Her neurosurgeon, a former snowboarder, told her parents, "This is not a could-have-beenworse case; instead this is a should-have-been-worse case." Moriah's two vertebrae, while shattered, stayed in place and thus did not damage her spinal cord. Furthermore, her discs are not damaged. Moriah was fitted with a tall white plastic body brace which closes over her like a turtle shell. Her father, Luis, says Moriah looks like a Storm Trooper. Moriah needs assistance to get in and out of the brace, and when she is not wearing it she must lay down flat and still. But this body brace gives her the ability to return to school. Moriah credits her faith for not only the good outcome, but also for the feelings of complete peace and trust she experienced during her ordeal. As Homecoming Queen at Vandegrift High School, Moriah is the emcee of the pep rallies. The athletic coaches and
An overwhelming majority of households (94.1%) at least(94.1%) one adult home durin An overwhelming majority of have households have at least o lunch time. Many people the Steiner Ranchinareas telecommute, for 49.2% lunch in time. Many people the Steiner Ranch allowing areas telecommut households to have 2households or more adults home survey to have 2 orduring more lunch adults time. home This during lunchrepresent time. T 1,427 adults, who are1,427 in theadults, Four who Points for Four lunchPoints each day. arearea in the area for lunch each day.
Open-ended comments also pointcomments to a desirealso for point more to lunch time for dining Open-ended a desire moreoptions. lunch tim “Regarding the concern that there not enough Do the lunch developers “Regarding theisconcern that lunch there istraffic: not enough traffic:hav D any idea how many stay-at-home are in Steiner? My wife involve any idea how moms many there stay-at-home moms there are is in fairly Steiner? My with various SAHM groups in theSAHM neighborhood, are always and talking with various groups inand thethey neighborhood, theyabout are alth limited options within SR foroptions lunch.”within SR for lunch.” limited
UT Golf Club names new Tennis Director By RICH KEITH Four Points News The University of Texas Golf Club has named Steve Bryan as its new Director of Tennis at its $8 million, Edgar O. and Melanie A. Weller Tennis Center and WhalingSnyder Courts facility being built. “When reviewing candidates, we looked for the very best. We wanted the Texas connection and a proven leader in the DIRECTOR, 6
How many adults are at home orare in the Four or in th How many adults atrestaurants home Survey shows area appears prime to support Part II By LYNETTE HAALAND
UT Golf Club names new director of tennis, Steve Bryan. This hire has been closely watched by the tennis world and particularly the NCAA community, not to mention the locals.
Inside
School......................................3 Opinion...................................4 Classifieds...............................5 Sports.................................. 6-7 Find us on Facebook Texas is the finest portion of the globe that has blessed my vision! Sam Houston
QUEEN, 4
Despite Suelo Nuevo closing in Steiner Ranch a few weeks ago and Fion Wine Pub announcing it will close this weekend, the recent survey conducted among nearly 1,000 local respondents shows the community appears prime for more local restaurants and has the income to support them. A survey was completed late last year by 974 respondents (one per IP address) living in the Steiner area. The goal of the survey was to learn more about the dining habits of those in the community and to help attract restaurants to the area.
Points area during lunch Points areatime? during lunch time?
Survey results show 77% of the respondents reported they eat out for dinner two or more times each week. One component of the survey was designed to gather data on whether there is a lunchtime source of business in the area. An overwhelming majority of households represented in this survey, 94%, have at least one adult home during lunch and 49% have two or more adults home during lunch. This survey represents 1,427 adults, who are in the Four Points area for lunch each day.
How many adults are at home or in the Four Points area during lunch time?
1 2
3 or more None
There are telecommuters, stay-athome parents, tennis groups, book clubs, PTA committee meetings, and businesses like 3M that make up DINING, 2
New SR Neighborhood Association seeking members First general meeting Feb. 29 By LYNETTE HAALAND The newly formed Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Asso-
ciation will host its first general meeting next week and starts the process of nominating its board. One of its biggest goals is to be able to provide a recognized voice to represent the community with local officials and developers. “As one example, we will ad-
vocate for development that is compatible with our community and preserves our quality of life,” said SRNA Temporary Chairperson Brian Thompto. SRNA registered with the City of Austin Dec. 1, and will continue to be notified of all development and proposed policy
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within the area. SRNA welcomes homeowners, renters and area businesses within its boundaries (which include Lake Travis and Lake Austin and RR 620) to its first general meeting on Wed., Feb. 29 at 7 p.m. at Steiner Ranch Elementary School. Voluntary mem-
bership dues for the first year are $50 per household or business. Membership signup, board nomination forms and general information are available now at www.steinerranchna.org. Some of the issues that caused ASSOCIATION, 5
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Viper Band delivers 9,700 bags of mulch The Vandegrift High School Band and Vision Dance Company had a goal of selling 5,000 bags of mulch but actually nearly sold twice as much - 9,700 bags! Viper band students made deliveries on Saturday in very wet weather. Band Director Jeremy Spicer said of this effort, "The commitment, dedication and hard work of the program continues to define the standard for all." The proceeds benefit the Viper band through the program's non-profit booster club.
Rich Keith
Viper Robotics wins Regionals The Vandegrift First Tech Challenge Robotics Team competed last weekend and won the Anderson Regional Qualifier at Anderson HS. This was one of four Robotics competitions sponsored by FIRST Robotics. The Vipers finished first place in a team alliance with Cedar Park HS and Summit Christian Academy. The team also earned the following awards: Winning Alliance PTC Design Award Winner Inspire Award Finalist Rockwell Collins Innovate Award Finalist Motivate Award Finalist Connect Award Finalist The Vipers next competition is at the FTC World Qualifier in San Antonio on March 1 and 2.
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DINING, FROM 1 lunchtime population, said Paul O’Brien, who developed the survey and compiled it with the help of Julie Ballengee. Both are from Steiner and volunteered many hours on the project. Due to the lack of restaurants in the area or the lack of loyalty to the local eateries, 83% of the survey respondents report that they travel ‘10-15 miles’ or more to dine out for lunch or dinner. Respondents to this survey primarily fall in the richest 20 percent of American households reporting annual incomes between $100,000 and $150,000. More than half, or 51% of households surveyed reported income of more than $150,000. “Households in the income
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While households have cut back on spending due to the recession, high-income families have not cut back as much as middle-income households. Additionally the survey represented many families. Nearly all, or 97% of the households, have two or more adults living there and the majority of households, 82%, have children. Based on the responses, 1,915 children were represented in this survey. Just under half, 49%, indicate that a children’s playscape is preferred or a draw for a restaurant. Only 10% surveyed indicated they ‘Avoid’ restaurants with playscapes.
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bracket that one finds in Steiner Ranch and the neighboring communities fall in the highest quintile in the nation and account for more than 25% of the spending at restaurants each year,” said O’Brien, who is also founder of GroupCharger.com. Survey conductors conclude that with the high household incomes in the area, there is a significant amount of money available for restaurateurs to tap into. They used U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Expenditure Survey and the U.S Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service’s Food Expenditure Tables to analyze the data gathered through the Steiner survey.
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Welcoming families to Florence W. Stiles MS Now that the Leander ISD Board of Trustees has named Florence W. Stiles Middle School (FSMS), the district is working diligently to get Leander ISD’s newest campus up, running and ready for students next fall. If you’ve had a chance to drive past the campus on 3250 Barley Road in Leander, you will note that it is a beautiful school. The inside hallways and classrooms are even more impressive with brightly painted walls and plenty of natural light. This week, FSMS Principal Susan Cole has spent a considerable amount of time meeting with students and parents to introduce herself and tell them a little bit about the new campus. Whenever a new school opens, the first classes that begin there are given special responsibilities
that set them apart from all of the other classes that will come through it in the years to come. During her visits, Ms. Cole has been asking students to consider what mascots and colors they like best because as is tradition in LISD, the first classes will have the opportunity to vote on the school’s colors and mascot. Once the new school year begins, the first classes will be asked to establish the traditions that will make Stiles Middle School a distinct and vibrant center for learning. The younger students will look to the first eighthgrade for leadership and to be role models. Together, the first classes will come together to create their own community with a unique sense of school spirit and pride. As you might imagine, it’s a pretty exciting experience.
At the same time, we know that school. This process has proven starting a new school can some- to give new LISD campuses a times be a little nerve-wrack- nice mix of seasoned and newing for students. As if being in to-profession staff, and almost middle school weren’t enough, guarantees that FSMS students there will be a will see a familnew building iar face or two to learn and on the first day new teachers of school. to meet. To enWhile the sure that every Stiles Middle school in LISD School won’t be is the best that open for visits it can be, the BRET CHAMPION until late spring, district never current fifthopens a new school with an en- grade students who are zoned to tire staff that is new to LISD. attend there next fall will have Our culture is too important. So, the chance to visit Henry Middle this spring current LISD teach- School and Wiley Middle School ers and staff will have the op- to learn about electives because portunity to request a transfer to all LISD middle schools offer the Stiles Middle School. Once that same classes. Ms. Cole will atis complete, we will begin hir- tend these campus visits also to ing new staff for the new middle answer any questions.
I have no doubt that FSMS will live up to the high academic and extracurricular standards set by our other seven middle schools. Ms. Cole’s goal is to build a positive school climate that focuses on student learning, fosters creativity and critical thinking, and promotes high standards of ethics and character. And like all LISD campuses, our parents will play a huge role in the success of Stiles Middle School. As principal, Ms. Cole values collaboration, whether it’s with parents, teachers or community members, and will use those interactions to create a positive, collaborative culture, with a constant focus on student learning. FSMS is already in the early stages of forming a PTA. If your child is zoned to attend
FSMS and you are interested in learning about the PTA, you may attend the first preliminary meeting on Tuesday, April 10, at 6 p.m. at Wiley Middle School. As the new school year gets closer, there will be numerous other volunteer opportunities for parents of Stiles Middle School students. Stay tuned for more details. When Stiles Middle School opens its doors next fall, it will join the 36 other campuses which comprise LISD to form solid foundations of excellence. Have a great week! P.S. For more information about Florence W. Stiles and Officer Leonard A. Reed, whom Elementary #24 was named after, please visit www.leanderisd.org.
SRE team takes 2nd at Destination ImagiNation regionals The Capital Region Destination ImagiNation regional tournament was held in Harker Heights Texas on Feb. 18. Over 250 teams participated in this round of the international tournament involving creativity, teamwork and problem solving. Steiner Ranch #1 Team competed in the Challenge known as “The Solar Stage” and took home second place medals as well as a DaVinci Award for Destination ImagiNation’s most prestigious award Exceptional Creativity. The team’s next stop is the state tournament in Corpus Christi on April 14th. Destination ImagiNation is an educational program in which student teams solve open-ended Challenges and present their solutions at Tournaments. Teams are tested to think on their feet, work together and devise original solutions that satisfy the requirements of the Challenges.
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Photoed is Steiner Ranch #1 Team: Laurel Lormand – 3rd grade, Leah Lockerman – 3rd grade, Sam Weiss – 3rd grade, Jackson Welsh – 4th grade, Spandana Kamepalli – 4th grade, Johnathan Kaaua – 5th grade, Zachary Weiss – 5th grade
Hill Country Education Foundation’s Giddy Up Gala, March 3rd The Hill Country Education Foundation will host its second annual Giddy Up Gala on March 3 at the Oasis. Evening activities include dinner, live music and live and silent auctions. A sample of some of the auction items include: Hot air balloon ride, limo service in a restored convertible '62 Lincoln, vacation packages to Aspen, Crested Butte, Red River NM, Lakeway Resort & Spa, a 1896 ranch in Fredericksburg, a one-of-a-kind Viper Football experience, Viper signed football helmet/football, a $500 Randalls shopping spree, golf packages galore, NasKart track racing for 10, customized license plates, wine tastings, date nights, Segway rides, photography, beauty/ health packages, jewelry and lots of summer camps to choose from! The Gala will have a Heads and Tails game led by VHS Coach Drew Sanders that only costs $10 to play and the winner will head to the JW Marriott's Hill Country Resort & Spa. There will be a demonstration from our award-winning high school robotics students, our FPMS Jazz Band will play, and an interactive display on Naviance (our district's new college readiness tool for high school students). Last year’s event was attended
by 260 guests and raised $32,000 which providing funding for the $25,000 in Impact Grants awarded last month to Four Point area schools in addition to funding other initiatives ranging from robotic clubs to college readiness programs. “It will be a fun night for the entire Four Points’ community to have a great time together and raise vital funding to benefit all the schools in the area” said Mi-
“The Table” 8:30 am Traditional Worship
Holy Communion
{Sanctuary}
chelle Lamb the event’s co-chair. Leander ISD Superintendent, Dr. Bret Champion will address guests and other community members will also participate in the evening activities. A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Hill Country Education Foundation enhances the educational experience of students living in the Four Points community. HCEF achieves this enhancement through the de-
“The Vine” 11:00 am Traditional Worship {Sanctuary}
velopment and financing of innovative, quality programs and projects for students attending or preparing to attend Vandegrift High School, specifically in the areas of leadership, entrepreneurship, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Tickets can be purchased at www.HillCountryEdFoundation.org.
“The Way” 11:00 am
Contemporary Worship
(512)691-7032 jon.m.fletcher@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/jon.m.fletcher Advisor is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of Texas, Florida and Minnesota. The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. © 2011 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Opinion
Thursday
Page 4 • February 23, 2012
Publisher’s Point of View
Four Points coming into its own with SRNA Next week marks a milestone in the his- with the legal authority to enforce rules tory of Four Points. Our community will and regulations that focus on restrictions take a big step forward in orgaand building and safety issues. nizing residents for the common A neighborhood association is a good. group of neighbors and business The first general meeting of the owners who work together for Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Aschanges and improvements such sociation is on Feb. 29 at 7 p.m. at as neighborhood safety and beauSteiner Elementary. tification. A handful of residents saw the According to Wikipedia, need to have a more unified voice NAs reinforce rules and regulaLYNETTE tions through education, peer over future development and traffic issues, etc. Lots of volunteer HAALAND pressure and by looking out for time has gone into the creation each other. of the organization which is registered with Some key differences include: the City of Austin so it will be notified of all • HOA membership is mandatory generdevelopment and proposed policy within ally through rules tied to the ownership of the area. property like deed restrictions. Neighbor The SRNA shows our community is hood association membership is voluntary coming into its own, becoming more estab- or informal. lished, and trying to protect what residents • HOAs often own and maintain comvalue most. mon property, such as recreational facili Tina Beamer is a SRNA supporter. She ties, parks, and roads, whereas neighborhas lived in Steiner for over 12 years, first hood associations are focused on general in Majestic Oaks and now Emerald Ridge, advocacy and community events. and she has seen a lot of changes. Neighborhood associations are more “I hope this new association will provide likely to be formed in older, established reliable communication on various sub- neighborhoods, whereas HOAs are genjects beneficial to everyone in and around erally established at the time a residential Steiner Ranch. I hope it addresses informa- neighborhood is built, according to Wikition about our schools, roads, traffic up- pedia. dates and other community news,” she said. Steiner Ranch is moving into that cat The boundaries of SRNA are larger egory of becoming a more established than the Steiner Ranch footprint and will neighborhood with about 200 homes left to include 5,000 residences, including apart- build. ments, and businesses. With the creation of the SRNA, it shows Neighborhood Associations are not Ho- that local residents are trying to lead the meowner Associations, which Four Points community into the future. Rather than has several. leaving it up to the developers, the commu An HOA is a group of property owners nity is taking hold of its own destiny.
Four Points News www.FourPointsNews.com
Four Points of View
What is your favorite video game?
Elena Aventa Steiner Ranch
Alyssa Aventa Steiner Ranch
Jack Jameson Steiner Ranch
Cole Groom River Place
Batman: Arkham City.
Skylanders.
LEGO Star Wars
Skate 3 because it is a realistic game of something I like to do.
Four Points News Your Community Newspaper
PERSONNEL
Editor & Publisher...........................................................................LYNETTE HAALAND Advertising Sales Representative....................................................HOLLIE KENNEY Circulation....................................................................................................FRED FRANCO Reporters......................................................................LESLEE BASSMAN, RICH KEITH Creative Services..............................................................................JENNIFER ROBERTS Contributor............................................................................................ BRET CHAMPION
Published weekly in Four Points, Texas by Four Points News LLC. For subscription information, email inquiries to fourpointsnews.bookkeeping@gmail.com
Correction: Don and Shirley Dickson have lived in Steiner Ranch 19 years instead of 13, as indicated in the Feb. 9 issue of Four Points News.
Talking with your spouse about finances By JON FLETCHER For some couples, talking about finances becomes taboo due to differences in their approach to money management, not to mention their financial goals for the future. As it turns out, financial disagreements between couples may reflect a fundamental difference in the way men and women approach money matters. Gender plays a role in financial planning Research commissioned by Ameriprise Financial has shown that men and women plan for one of their biggest financial milestones – retirement – in very different ways. 1 More than half of men surveyed say they set money aside in their own investments, but not nearly as many women say they’re doing the same. Men are also more likely to have determined the amount of income they will need in retirement. Women are more likely to report that they’ve thought about what they’d like to do when they
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retire. Women are significantly your plans for the future are in more likely than men to say they sync – but be prepared to complan to spend more time with promise. It’s helpful to recognize family, and that proximity to that you have financial strengths family is a very important factor and weaknesses, as does your in determining spouse. You can where they will have a rational retire. They are conversation and also more likely find a common to rate access to ground once you healthcare oprecognize and tions and faciliacknowledge the ties as a very imfact that differJON FLETCHER ences exist. portant factor. These differ Your financial ences in how goals and primen and women approach key orities will likely evolve as you financial decisions may be pres- move through life. It’s important ent for many other milestones as that both partners remain equalwell, such as starting a family or ly involved in financial decisions buying a home. So how can you and the key to this is regular bridge the gap to approach your communication. goals in a way that makes both Put it all in perspective. you and your partner comfort- While finances can create able? plenty of stress in relationships, Don’t avoid financial discus- it’s important to keep the big sions and keep both partners picture in mind. Though talking involved about finances may never come Be available to your partner naturally, plan some time with and communicate often. Keep your spouse or partner this year in mind that it’s crucial to dis- to have an open financial diacuss financial matters to ensure logue and to share your vision of
your future together. As a nonbiased third party, over the years I’ve found that communication in all areas improves dramatically when spouses are on the same page in planning their financial future. Jon M. Fletcher, CRPC®, Financial Advisor, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Advisor is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of AZ, FL, MN, NV, TX, and VA. 1 The New Retirement Mindscape 2011 City Pulse index was created by Ameriprise Financial utilizing survey responses from 11,611 U.S. adults ages 40-75. The survey was commissioned by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and conducted online by Harris Interactive from August 4-12, 2011. The national average sample and the 30 U.S. metropolitan areas were each weighted independently to best represent each area. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' likelihood to be online.
QUEEN, FROM 1 her band directors told her she didn't have to do last week’s pep rally. "No way am I going to miss out on any Viper spirit!" Moriah responded. So the football coach gave her a big "V" sticker to put on her brace, and Moriah led last week's pep rally. At one point she lifted up her shirt to show the brace and said to everyone there, "As you can see, I take my Winter Break very seriously!" Moriah is not the only Four Points resident who received injuries while skiing or snowboarding. For example, Steve Simmons of Steiner Ranch got a spiral fracture of his tibia while skiing at Crested Butte, and VHS student Hayden Tucker needed multiple stitches on his face and lip in a snowboard fall at Steamboat Springs.
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Four Points News www.FourPointsNews.com
Thursday
February 23, 2012 • Page 5
River Place Student Theatre’s Guys & Dolls Jr. runs March 2, 3
Community Events Feb. 21 & 23 LISD, Cedar Park Rotary Club Talent Show Auditions at 6:30pm, Leander HS
Feb. 22 Lake Travis United Methodist Church Ash Wednesday. Supper 5:45pm, Service 6:30pm
Feb. 24 Girl Scout Cookie Sales End
Feb. 29 Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Association Founding Meeting Steiner Ranch Elementary at 7 pm
March 1 Concordia University Texas Speaker Series with Whistleblower at Enron 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. Auditorium (Building A)
March 2 & 3
River Place Student Theatre invites the community to attend its children’s musical Guys and Dolls Jr. “Our performances are very ambitious for such a young cast and have been compared to what you might expect to see at Zach Scott Theatre,” said Gene Frugé, River Place Student Theatre president. This year’s musical is a fable of New York’s fabulous Broadway in the 1950’s. A motley crew of eccentrics, Salvation Army dogooders, questionable police officers, gamblers, nightclub en-
tertainers and other non-conformists populate this world. It’s a hilarious tale of good overcoming immorality and love conquering all. The score includes favorites like “If I Were a Bell,” “Adelaide’s Lament” and “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat! ” Don’t miss out. “As we demonstrated again last year with the success of Willy Wonka Jr., River Place Student Theatre productions are unique. We pride ourselves on not only providing our children with a theater arts education that is second to none, but we also believe
Obituary Holmes, Elsie Elizabeth O’Neal (1919 - 2012)
in highlighting our kids singing, dancing and acting abilities with a spectacle of life-like sets, colorful props, unexpected special effects and bold consumes,” Fruge said. Performances are at The Church at Canyon Creek located at 9001 F.M. 620 N. March 2 and March 3 at 7 p.m. Tickets purchased online in advance are just $10.00 for adults ($12 at the door) and $5 for children ($6 at the door). http:// www.riverplacestudenttheatre. org/RiverPlaceStudentTheatre/ Online_Store.html
Elsie Elizabeth O’Neal Holmes, 92, a long-time resident of Baton Rouge, died on Thursday, February 16, 2012 in Austin, Texas. She was a resident of Steiner Ranch. She was born on June 30, 1919 in Baton Rouge to the late B.F. and Eunice O’Neal. She was a graduate of Baton Rouge High School and attended LSU. Elsie was a retired tour guide for the Louisiana Historical Foundation and homemaker. She was Miss USO of 1943 and was recognized as the Volunteer Activist of the Year in 1984 by the Baton Rouge CityParish Council. Elsie is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Amy Holmes and Dr. Charles Weinstein of Austin, Texas; a son and daughter-in-law, Jack and Jodie Holmes of Friendswood, Texas; five grandchildren, Nathan Holmes of Houston, Texas, Kevin Holmes of League City, Texas, Cassie Holmes of Alvin, Texas, Meagan Holmes of League City, Texas, Michael Weinstein of Austin, Texas; and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a sister, Goldie Zane of Baton
Concordia to host Enron whistleblower The community is invited to Concordia University Texas’ latest Conversations With… speaker series. Concordia will host Sherron Watkins, known for being the whistleblower at Enron prior to
its collapse, and Stephen Furbacher, former president and COO of Dynegy. Watkins and Furbacher will address the topic “Leadership & Ethics: Lessons Learned from the Enron Crisis. The speakers
will discuss how ethics impact leadership decisions. The event will be held on March 1 at 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Concordia University Auditorium (Building A) at 11400 Concordia University Dr.
Carla George, who lives in the neighboring Hughes Park Lake Subdivision, is involved with SRNA. What happens in Steiner impacts surrounding neighbors, she said. “I believe stronger communication and greater financial support will enable the Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Association to become our collective voice – and a force to be reckoned with,” George said. Brian Clifton who lives in Canyon Glen is also involved with SRNA. “It is important for several reasons: 1) Maintain the quality of life in the community that we have come to expect. 2) Have a positive influence on de-
velopment in the front of Steiner Ranch. 3) Ensure that safety is paramount as the community and business development grows,” he said. The SRNA membership will elect seven Board members for the first year. The SRNA will be forming issue-oriented committees soon after electing a Board. Online at www.steinerranchna.org, membership and Board nominations are open and bylaws are available for review. Following next week’s meeting, paid members can vote online from March 7 - March 20. March 28 there will be a general meeting at SR Elementary with the elected board.
ASSOCIATION, FROM 1
March 3 Hill Country Education Foundation Giddy Up Gala at the Oasis from 6:30 - 11:30 pm
March 21 Randalls Four Points Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting
March 26 VHS Golf Scramble UT Golf Club 12:30 start
a handful of residents to form SRNA include: a three hour evacuation during the wild fires, threats of energy rate hikes, and new mixed use development plans with unassessed impacts to traffic, schools, safety and security. There are nearly 300 apartments about to begin construction near Steiner Ranch Elementary and another 225 or so being considered between Quinlan Crossing and Vista Ridge. Existing and proposed commercial development in Steiner and the surrounding area will increase traffic and congestion. Some organizers say it will affect safety and property values.
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Rouge, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Jack Holmes; her parents, B. F. and Eunice O’Neal; four sisters, Josephine “Biddie” Robinson, Lillian “Tina” Kennedy, William Flora “Dotsy” Carty, and Gloria Townsley; three brothers, Percy A. O’Neal, Beverly F. O’Neal, Jr., Sidney O’Neal; and one half-brother, Albert E. O’Neal. Her body was donated to The University of Texas Medical School in Houston. Honorary pallbearers are Dr. Harris Lappin, Kathy Cummings, Carla Berry, Percy M. O’Neal, and James and Deloris Bitting. Memorial service will be held at Broadmoor Presbyterian Church at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 25, 2012, conducted by the Reverend Hawley Wolfe. Visitation with the family will be held in the church Fellowship Hall immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Broadmoor Presbyterian Church, 9340 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA, 70815.
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Stars of the Week
Thursday
Page 6 • February 23, 2012
Collin Stobart -
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Brandon Maas -
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Everett Fitzpatrick -
Junior
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Favorite part about being involved in Viper Swimming and Dive: Spending time with our captain Brandon Maas, and the swim meets are fun! Also, placing 3rd at Region!
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Band: The thing I like most about band is my best bud, Craig.
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Freshman
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Soccer: Because of the camaraderie and it’s fun to travel and play other schools.
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Swimming and Dive: The team building and working towards my goals are my favorite things about the Vandegrift Swim Team. Also, getting a :48 on my 100 Free!
Dustin Hoang -
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Paige Welch -
Senior
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Soccer: The best part of being involved in varsity soccer here is how close we are as a team. I’ve never been on a team that gets along as well as we do, it’s special.
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Lady Vipers beat Jags in first-ever playoff game The Lady Vipers in their firstever playoff game knocked off last year's 4A State Runner-Up Austin LBJ. The teams met on Monday, Feb 13 in the first round of the playoffs which paired Districts 25-4A and 26-4A. The Lady Vipers controlled the game throughout all four quarters and beat the Lady Jaguars by a score of 58-43. The Lady Vipers travel to Seguin Thursday night to play San Antonio Harlandale in the Area Round of the playoffs. Sophia Duffield (#3, junior) driving on the LBJ defense. Sophia led all Vipers in scoring with 16 points Reid Lichtenberger
Girls Soccer during Vista Ridge game
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Viper BB earns spot in State 4A playoffs The Vandgrift Varsity Boys beat Dripping Springs in a play-in game the Fri., Feb. 17 game, 70-50 to earn a spot in the State 4A playoffs. The Vipers started fast and finished strong as they put together one of their most complete games of the year. It was a total team effort as 10 Vipers scored on the night. The Vipers play LBJ Tuesday night Feb 21 at Westwood High School. The fan support for the Vipers was outstanding as VHS students, Lady Vipers Basketball Teams, VHS Soccer Teams, VHS staff and community parents came out and filled the stands in fantastic numbers to cheer the Varsity Team!
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Junior Co-Captain Taylor Allen's header ended up in the goal and that goal put the Lady Vipers up 3-0 in the first half, said Coach Jenifer Hardy.
DIRECTOR, FROM 1 world of tennis,” said UT Golf Club General Manager and COO Steve Termeer. Bryan is a two-time AllAmerican who played for The University of Texas from 19881990 where he won the NCAA singles national championship as a sophomore. Following his
success at UT, Bryan went on to compete professionally on the ATP Tour for nearly a decade. “Joining this team is a once in a lifetime experience. The idea of being part of a world-class facility proudly bearing the UT name and being here at the beginning
is an opportunity anyone in the tennis world would embrace,” Bryan said. He will make the move from Houston to lead the new facility at the UT Golf Club, which is expected to open on Nov. 1. He is responsible for supervising all tennis staffing and pro-
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gramming and for developing programs for club members to include women's team tennis; league play; couples, juniors and men's programs; and summer camps specializing in junior development. The new $8 million Weller Tennis Center and WhalingSnyder Courts will be large at 360 feet long, 127 feet deep and 35 feet tall. The depth has been increased by 7 feet to provide a larger area of baseline play for competition. For aesthetics, is important that the large size of the building should be masked to the extent possible for the benefit of golfers and residents. Thus the apparent height of the building will be reduced by sinking it into the ground by 15 feet on one side, leaving it no taller than an average 2-story home in Steiner Ranch. Also the sides of the building will be surrounded by berms and new trees planted to mask the bulk of the building. A Texas limestone exterior will
complement the existing structures in the area, and a swimming pool is being constructed. “The reception from the club membership and the community has been overwhelmingly positive,” Termeer said. UT prefers outdoor tennis tournaments and schedules them regularly. However in order to host national NCAA title tournaments a facility must have a minimum of six indoor courts. This requirement would allow a tournament to continue in the event of inclement weather. Special facilities will be in place to handle NCAA tournaments. The indoor lighting is designed to deliver 75 foot-candles of light at the playing surface. During competition events the lighting is designed to be increased to 120 foot-candles. The increased lighting is beneficial for the players and for broadcast using the Longhorn Network. The surface can be "slowed down" for competition play by increasing the amount of rough grain in the
Plexipave © surface. Termeer indicated that it will take $300,000 to run the tennis center annually. UT Golf Club members will use it 90% of the time and UT will use it 10% of the time. UT funds the cost of certain management fees and some other operational costs. This relationship works because of the strong bonds forged between UT Golf Club and UT. The University understands how to work with the club. This is not common, Termeer indicated. In other areas of Texas and across the country, the sharing of "branded facilities" is haphazard with regard to legal arrangements. In the case of the UT Golf Club, they worked out most of the issues when the golf club was formed. For example, software systems are shared which reflect the status of the reservations for tee times, practice time and tournaments. These systems will be used for tennis as well.
Viper Golf Spotlight
Four Points News www.FourPointsNews.com
Thursday
February 23, 2012 • Page 7
Left: Chandler Thomas was one of the individuals owning the lowest scoring averages from last year. Right: At the Blackhawk Golf Tourney, Emily Garbutt helps her team, which currently is ranked 15th in the State in 4A. Robin Garbutt
Robin Garbutt
Varsity Viper golf members Kennedy Grimes, Freshman, Hunter Huang, Junior, and Chase Phillips, Sophomore, at a pre-season tournament at ACC.
Cody Raven, senior at Vandegrift, one of the reasons the Viper Boys Golf team is ranked #5 in the State in 4A.
Q& A with Boys/Girls Golf Coach Matt Wenecke
1. Sum up your season so far and tell us what has to happen for your team to finish strong? Boys season – the boys have had a very successful season so far. We set a few goals at the start of the season and we have achieved a couple of those already. We wanted to shoot below 300 for a total team score and we did that twice in the fall. We won a tournament and we have had an individual win 2 tournaments so far. Our
next goals are to advance out of District and Regionals to compete at the State tournament. The District tournament is April 9-10 so the guys are still working hard to be prepared. Currently the boys team is ranked #5 in the State in 4A. Girls season – the girls have made lots of progress this year. We also set goals on the girls side and have achieved a few of those so far. We wanted to shoot lower than 360 as a team and we have done that twice so far this season. We also won a tournament in the fall. The girls District tournament is April 3-4 so they are still working hard to have themselves prepared. Our goal is to have the team or 1-2 individuals advance to the Regional tournament. Currently the girls are ranked #15 in the State in 4A. 2. What is your biggest concern about the season? At the District Tournament we will have to play well to beat Lake Travis, Cedar Park and Vista Ridge. On ly two teams can
advance out of District so there will be a couple of good teams staying home regardless of which 2 advance. Obviously expecting my guys to play well and advance, but it should be a close tournament. 3. Is there a hidden treasure on your team that has been having a major impact on your season? So far the freshmen that have come in (Skyler Young, Kennedy Grimes, Erin Fahey) and played at the Varsity level have given our teams a huge boost. Its asking a lot of freshmen to come in and contribute right away, but they have done a great job and put our teams in a position to compete at the high level we expect to compete at. 4. What motivates you as a coach and why did you choose the sport you did? I played golf in high school and
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Statistical leaders: William Martinez, Emily Rue and Chandler Thomas were individuals owning the lowest scoring averages from last year. Top newcomers: Skyler Young, Kennedy Grimes and Erin Fahey
2012 Vandegrift Golf Schedule Date Varsity I Varsity II Varsity I Varsity I Varsity II Varsity I, II Varsity I, II
2012 Vandegrift Girls Golf Schedule Tournament Date Lollapalooza January 16-17 San Marcos January 30 Tourn. of Champions February 17-18 Mike Brent February 24-25 McNeil February 28 Vandegrift March 23-24 DISTRICT April 3-4 Regionals April 16-17
Date Varsity I Varsity II Varsity I Varsity I Varsity II Varsity I Varsity II Varsity II Varsity I, II
2012 Vandegrift Boys Golf Schedule Tournament Date Site Aggie Invitational Jan. 16-17 Miramont/Traditions Vista Ridge January 24 Avery Ranch Battle at the Lake January 27-28 Flintrock Mike Brent February 24-25 Jimmy Clay San Marcos February 27 Quail Creek Tourn. of Champions March 2-3 Willow Springs Cedar Creek March 5 Wolfdancer Jimmy Clay March 23 Jimmy Clay DISTRICT April 9-10 Delaware Springs Regionals April 18-19 Pecan Valley State April 30-May 1 Jimmy Clay
Site Live Oak Quail Valley Brackenridge Jimmy Clay Lost Creek Falconhead Star Ranch Pecan Valley
* Denotes District game
Boys Team Cody Raven Kennedy Grimes Chase Smith Skyler Young Hunter Huang Tristan Prukop William Martinez Grant Marumoto Chase Phillips Parth Patel Max Regan Will Garvey Elliott Byrd Jakob Miller Harrison Field Antonio Nieto
NOW
rise {AND}
2010 District Play: Boys finished 5th Girls finished 3rd
Photo Texas Photography
2011-2012 Vandegrift Golf Roster
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college and wanted to get into coaching. Having the chance to coach at Vandegrift and have the kids that I do in my program has been incredible. We are starting to enjoy some success and see the improvements we are all looking for. My goal for the program is to be competitive at the State level each and every year. The kids and parents have bought into this and have been working very hard. I’m excited about where the program is this year and where it is headed in the future.
Girls Team Chandler Thomas Annika Larson Dani Siek Mia Chiarelli Hannah Collins Erin Fahey Emily Rue Holly Huddleston Meghan Rue Carly Cox Emily Garbutt
CMYK
Page 8 • Four Points News, Thursday, February 23, 2012
Montessori
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An “education for life”… starts at School in the Hills
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Join Us for an Open House Saturday, February 25th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, May 19, 2012 • 12 - 5pm THE AMAZING FOUR POINTS RACE to the TASTE brings together the Four Points community -restaurants, businesses, organizations and charities - in a BIG GAME event. It’s part scavenger hunt, part obstacle course and part Four Points food and beverage tastings!
Join the Quest! All children ages 3 years old through 4th grade are welcome. School in the Hills will spend the summer observing, investigating and experimenting in a fun environment. Enroll your child in Discovery in the Hills for a single camp, several weeks or all summer. Primary Camps for children ages 3 – 6. Leadership Camps for children currently in 1st – 4th grade.
TWENTY TEAMS are faced with overcoming roadblocks, detours and avoiding elimination while they travel all over the Four Points area, stopping at your business. They’re tracking down CLUES and completing CHALLENGES in pursuit of the WINNER’S Circle. RACE CENTRAL will feature: the Team Leader Board, LIVE Team interviews/ reports from the Race arena, music, kids entertainment zone, local business exhibits and YOU enjoying the Taste of Four Points local restaurants food and beverages. OUR SPONSORING BUSINESSES get extensive exposure, tremendous “FIRST TIMER” foot traffic and significant networking opportunities.
Visit schoolinthehills.com/summer for more information.
OUR BENEFITING CHARITIES participate as part of our volunteer staff and share in the funds raised on their behalf.
Call 512-266-6160 to schedule a tour or to reserve a spot for this summer.
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35
B ee C a v es R d (2244) .
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Austin-Ber gstrom Internationa l Airport
• Managed Care Plans and Private Insurances Accepted • Licensed Assisted Living and Certified Memory Care • 24-Hour Professional Nursing Coverage
12001 Longhorn Parkway • in Steiner Ranch Austin, TX 78732 www.longhornvillage.com (512) 382-4664 or (877) 266-5605
• Daily Social Events, Activities, and Transportation • 5-Star Dining Programs Central Texas’ Finest Non-Profit Community Developed by The Ex-Students Association of The University of Texas