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City of Austin shuts down River Place nature trail amidst allegations of preserve encroachment
Thursday, March 29, 2012 • 50 cents
Opening ceremonies draws hundreds By LYNETTE HAALAND Four Points News
Photos by: Leslee Bassman
Above Left: This sign posted at the original River Place Boulevard entrance to the community’s Nature Trail indicates where access to the trail ends following City of Austin’s trail segment closure on Tuesday.
Roopal Bhatt, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Randalls donates $10K to Hill Country Education Foundation
By LESLEE BASSMAN Four Points News Last Tuesday, the City of Austin erected signs on a portion of River Place’s newest nature trail extension barring pedestrians from accessing a segment of the popular route. This trail was just opened in 2010 and cost the River Place MUD an estimated $150,000. On Wednesday, the City granted River Place MUD officials entry onto the site to affix an explanation for the sudden closure. On February 22, Austin Water Utility’s Wildland Conservation Division Manager William Conrad received correspondence from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service stating that “the (River Place Nature) trail was constructed without the City of Austin’s consent and encroaches on preserved lands within the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.” In his letter, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Field Supervisor Adam Zerrenner instructed the City to close the portions of the trail located within the BCP. Four Points News obtained a copy of this correspondence. Travis County and the City of Austin were given a 30-year permit in 1996 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the
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478-3376 (4PT-DERM)
Randalls gave a $10,000 check to the Hill Country Education Foundation during its first few hours of being open to the public. “Wow!” said Kai Lamb, President of the Hill Country Education Foundation. Randalls invited HCEF board members to their Grand Opening and Four Points Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting ceremonies on March 21. “We knew that there was going to be some sort of financial presentation. The amount of their generosity was most surprising and appreciated,” Lamb said. Supporting education is one of Randalls’ core values. “The Hill Country Education Foundation benefits students from many schools in the area,
so Randalls was honored to celebrate our Steiner Ranch store opening by presenting $10,000 to the them and their scholarship program,” said Connie Yates, Director of Public Affairs from Randalls and its parent, Safeway Inc. Last week’s donation will be added to the funds raised earlier this month from the Giddy Up Gala and will allow HCEF to provide $20,000 in Impact Grants to Four Points area schools this Spring. It will also help pay this year’s $10,000 Naviance grant to Leander ISD and help provide $6,000 in funding to the area robotic clubs for the 2012-2013 academic year. “We’re also talking to LISD about another Naviance-like, college-readiness grant opportunity that HCEF could help fund and benefit the entire district,” Lamb said. Yates said that Randalls was founded on being a part of the communities it serves. “Our goal is to focus on areas that are important to our cusRANDALLS, 5
Top Right: Last week, City of Austin officials posted this sign at about 2.5 miles into the newer section of River Place’s Nature Trail. Bottom Right: The newest segment of River Place’s Nature Trail system opened Memorial Day 2010.
TRAIL, 7
Steiner family rebuilds after September fires By RICH KEITH Four Points News The Harais family has just broken ground on their new home on Varner Court in Steiner Ranch, eight months after the Labor Day weekend fires destroyed their home of 18 years. Carson Harais, 16, noticed something different in the air. It smelled of smoke and the sky looked different, darker somehow in the middle of the afternoon. He looked out a window across the valley and saw big flames across RM 620, on the lake side of the highway. There were billowing clouds of smoke and they were streaming directly over his house at a high rate of speed. Carson, 16, told his mom Norma, and they called 911 right away. By the time he got off the phone and looked again, the fire had jumped across the highway. Norma and her husband, TJ, gathered some things together just in case. When they looked again, the fire was closing the gap. It became clear that the fierce winds were pushing the fire hard right toward their culde-sac. A few minutes later, the Travis County Sheriff ’s Office was ordering everybody on Varner Court to evacuate immediately.
Lynette Haaland
Solar economics in Four Points By RICH KEITH Four Points News Photovoltaic solar panels are popping up all over Four Points and can be an affordable way to generate electricity. Circular Energy of Austin presented clinics on the economics of solar energy recently at River Place Country Club and Longhorn Village in Steiner Ranch. Through the recent years, more solar panel designs have been brought to market. Additionally there are subsidies available to defray the costs of installation. “Currently residential solar out-of-pocket cost is about 25 percent of the total cost,” said Circular Energy CEO JC Shore. Patrick Lockerman, a Four Points resident and owner of Lambent Energy, a solar design and installation firm, said homeowners should ask to see what their installation will look like. Locations and aesthetics have to be considered with installa-
TJ and Norma Harais broke ground on their new home on Varner Court in Steiner Ranch where their home of 18 years stood before the September fires. “(Through it all) we were reminded of the kindness of humanity and especially our neighbors. And material possessions mean nothing,” TJ said.
CEO Circular Energy JC Shore
tion. Product designs keep getting better. “There are black-on-black panels which have the appearance of windows on your roof. These represent the types of products which help the homeowner match the quality of the installation to the value of their home,” Lockerman said. He added that a bad-looking installation can drive neighbors away from wanting solar on their home. In Austin, homes that are
HARAIS, 7
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Four Points Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 2nd anniversary By LYNETTE HAALAND Four Points News
The Four Points Chamber of Commerce celebrates its second anniversary this month as it grows with the emerging community. “We are about 110 members currently and we have continued to gain momentum as we are be-
coming more involved and recognized in the area,” said Ray Freer, Chairman. The Chamber was founded by a group of entrepreneurial-spirited leaders who recognized the need to connect area businesses and organizations. “We are working to grow our sense of community to bring busi-
nesses and the our neighbors together for charitable causes,” Freer said. New this year, the Chamber has created several signature events, something it has never done before. The first one is the Amazing Four Points Race to the Taste on June 9. This Taste of Four Points
Urgent Care ~ Now Open! We are now open Sunday afternoons for sick visits by appointment only. You can call our office directly at 512-241-1370 between the hours of 1PM and 5PM to schedule an appointment with our nurse practitioner, Pat Budd, RN, CPNP. The phones turn on at 1PM.
6618 Sitio Del Rio #A101 I Austin, TX 78730 512-241-1370 I www.hillcountrypediatrics.com
event will have vendors, music and entertainment for the whole family. “We are in process of securing the Four Points Home Depot to host the Taste,” Freer said. This Tasting event will be combined with a scavenger hunt race for the adventurous types similar to the Amazing Race seen on TV.
Registration for teams and vendors is now open. “We are very excited at this first of a kind event in the community,” Freer said. The Chamber’s second big event will be the Four Points Chamber Charity Golf Classic CHAMBER, 7
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CMYK Page 2 • Four Points News, Thursday, March 29, 2012
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Local pilot part of LWB’s Southwest Airlines’ Adopt-A-Pilot Laura Welch Bush Elementary hosted local Pilot Scott Olsen last week during its Southwest Airlines’ Adopt-A-Pilot program. "I tried to illustrate to the students the importance of working hard in their classes now, which will help them to be able to attend college and pursue their dream job later on in life,” Olsen said. The Steiner Ranch father of
two has one daughter at LWBE and another at Canyon Ridge Middle School. “Also, (I tried to encourage the students) to never give up on a dream no matter what obstacles may be in the way," he said. Olsen has been flying for over 24 years with more than 10,000 flight hours logged. For the past five years he has been with Southwest. He flew in the U.S.
Air Force for 10 years and is currently a USAF Reserves pilot. The Adopt-A-Pilot program is a mentorship program that passes on leadership, values and goal setting skills to students all over the nation. Started in 1997, the award-winning educational program leads students through science, geography, math, writing and other core subjects, all based in aviation-related activi-
ties. Students research careers, develop life values, and realize the importance of staying in school through this complimentary program offered by Southwest. LWB classes were just part of over 1,350 classrooms in each of Southwest Airlines’ destination cities across the country that are participating this year in AdoptA-Pilot.
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Laura Welch Bush Elementary hosted Steiner Ranch Pilot Scott Olsen last week during its Southwest Airlines Adopt-A-Pilot program.
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SOLAR, FROM 1 more than 10 years old and have not previously had a free energy audit in the last decade, must pass one, Shore said. “There’s no point in installing solar power if the home is leaking like a sieve,” he said. It is the solar providers’ job to ensure a compliant design within local laws. Texas homeowners now have more freedom on the placement of solar panels with the passage of House Bill 362 in November 2011. The new law states that an HOA may not prevent homeowners from installing solar panels as long as other HOA
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guidelines are met. An HOA may still prohibit the placement of solar panels on certain roof locations. But under the new law, if a homeowner can prove that the desired location produces at least 10 percent more energy than the HOA-preferred location, the HOA may no longer prohibit the installation in the desired location. “The new law does not affect Steiner Ranch, which has allowed and promoted rooftop solar for many years,” said Scott Selman, Executive Director of the Steiner Ranch Community Association. “We look at the aesthetics closely and if the panels will be visible from the street,” said Rob Carruthers, Steiner Ranch Residential Owner board member. One reason behind the new law is that in 2011, 25 percent of the people who moved to a different state moved to a major metropolitan area in Texas. This large influx has strained electric utilities in Texas, which need to rapidly deploy energy infrastructure and power plants to meet the state’s population growth, Circular Energy officials said at their recent local meeting. The Austin City Council adopted a plan in May 2010 to get significantly more power from wind, solar and other sources that do not emit greenhouse gases. The plan calls for Austin Energy to obtain 35 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020, up from 12 percent now.
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hursday Four PToints News March 29, 2012 • Page 3 www.FourPointsNews.com
Nutrition programs feed bodies and minds in LISD March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is “Get Your Plate In Shape.” This week I’m going to highlight some of Leander ISD’s efforts to encourage healthy nutrition habits, while promoting student learning. At the March 22 LISD Board meeting, the Board of Trustees and I had the pleasure of honoring 15 students who were winners in the recent culinary arts competitions sponsored by our food service provider, Sodexo. For both competitions, participants prepared healthy kidfriendly recipes. As part of their recognition, the Board tasted some of the award-winning dishes our students cooked for the competition, and they found it delicious! On behalf of LISD, we again offer our heartiest congratulations to our 2012 Sodexo
Student Well-being Culinary Competition winners: Jessica Minne, Yusif Shalab, Brendan Chance, Alan Palmer and Cam Boucher, champions of the Culinary Throw Down Competition; and to Abigail Crandell, Gabrielle Gilly, Rebekah Hamilton, Madison Nicole Lee, Megan Leingang, Natalie Mercado, Elise Orgeron, Nataniel RodriguezSaldierna, Trevor Stebbins and Renee Torres, the winners of the Future Chefs competition. Sodexo is teaching fantastic life lessons through these culinary competitions. They have proven to be fun ways to motivate elementary- and middle school-aged students to engage in the food preparation process, experience following recipes and learn about nutrition to take ownership of their well-being. It always makes me smile
when I ask students what their fa- practices. Our meat providers do vorite thing is about school, and not purchase ammonia-treated they answer, “Eating in the caf- beef for their school products. eteria.” While we certainly want All U.S. Department of Agristudents to enjoy lunchtime, we culture beef purchases for the also want to enNational School sure that what Lunch Program they are eating meet very high is wholesome safety stanbecause studards. LISD, dents can’t feed along with all their minds if of our food venthey don’t feed dors, strive to their bodies our stuBRET CHAMPION serve first. That’s why dents only safe, LISD’s Child Nutrition Services high-quality food items. offers a wide variety of nutritious Regardless, we want to make breakfasts and lunches to every sure we are offering what kids student each school day on all want to eat. LISD’s Student campuses. Health Advisory Committee In the wake of recent head- and student and adult customers lines regarding the use of lean provide input on menu items, finely textured beef (LFTB), or which already exceed the nu“pink slime,” I want to take a tritional standards set by the moment to inform you of LISD’s USDA. And we want students to
SRE Science Rodeo’s Slime station
Steiner Ranch Elementary hosted its annual Science Rodeo where kids and parents made slime out of water, glue and liquid starch. Hayden Tyndall (right) stretches the slime and Leah Lockerman (above) gets help from mom, Sherry, with her bubblegum colored slime.
Lynette Haaland
appreciate the fact that just because they aren’t familiar with a certain food, it doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying. So other programs and events like our “A to Z Salad Bar,” also sponsored by Sodexo, introduce students to exotic varieties of produce. To be healthy now and later and life, LISD believes in teaching students what it means to make wise choices. Our health curriculum emphasizes the importance of eating well. Moreover, teachers and staff, including our Child Nutrition Services employees, are constantly encouraging students to seek out healthy options. Indeed, the district is focusing on student learning by providing quality, nutritious meals for students. I also want to mention that LISD was recently recognized by the Texas Department
of Agriculture for our support of the Summer Food Service Program. You may remember that this state-sponsored program provides free meals to children ages 1-18 years old at specified locations throughout the district. This is a great program that we are pleased to be a part of because it provides a beneficial service to our communities and our families. Life-long good nutrition habits require buy-in from students, parents, staff and community members. This March, I encourage you to help us set a good example for our students by getting your own plate in shape. For more information about LISD’s menu offerings, visit www.leanderisd.org. Have a great week!
Canyon Ridge 8th Graders go east for Spring Break Over Spring Break, 22 eighth graders from Canyon Ridge Middle School took a trip to Philadelphia, Gettysburg, and New York City. Students enjoyed hearing about the ghosts of Philly, marching on the Gettysburg Battlefield, shopping in NYC, and seeing the show “Any-
thing Goes”. The tour was coordinated by Joshua Marsh, 8th Grade U.S. history teacher at CRMS, and chaperoned by Laura Marsh and David Collmann. The tour group is seen pictured here in the heart of Times Square.
Opinion
Thursday
Page 4 • March 29, 2012
Publisher’s Point of View
River Place trail shut down costs money, time and effort If I understand correctly, Riv The Service agrees with er Place residents paid money the City that those portions of through their MUD for a trail exthe trail located within the BCP tension that cost about $150,000 should be closed and the area reand opened Memorial Day 2010. stored.” But this trail was closed by the But the MUD Board beCity of Austin last week because it lieves it took proper steps when it is illegal, encroaching on the Balhad the trail built. cones Canyonlands Preserve and A sketch was given to LYNETTE its endangered species habitat. City officials in 2008 showing the The stretch of trail this includes HAALAND nature trail and the area at issue. is less than a mile, according to At that time, the sketch showed MUD Board officials. possible encroachment. The City posted signs at the trail last The Board contracted with local Enviweek reading: ronmental Survey Consulting to build the “No Trespassing - Do Not Enter This is 2009 extension. River Place MUD Presian illegally constructed trail that trespasses dent James Casey said at some point in through endangered species habitat. If you 2008, Environmental Survey Consulting’s enter, you will be subject to prosecution for Project Leader emailed “City of Austin criminal trespass.” personnel regarding the trail extension lo The City closed the trail to regain com- cation” but nothing was changed. The trail pliance with its federal permit to manage was still constructed. the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. Travis The project manager told Four Points County and the City of Austin were given a News’ Leslee Bassman: No comment. 30-year permit in 1996 by the United States It is unbelievable that this fell through Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the the cracks with all of the checks and balendangered species and their habitat con- ances in place at the City, at the River Place tained within the 30,428 acres comprising MUD and even at the a firm contracted to the BCP. build the trail. City officials say the trail was constructed Now the trail has to be taken out and the without its consent and the trail encroaches area restored. on preserve lands in the BCP. What a waste of time, effort and money Four Points News obtained a copy of to build a trail that opened for some 18 the letter sent in February to the City from months and now will need to be taken out! the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Field Su- It will cost more money, time and effort pervisor Adam Zerrenner instructing that to repair the affected portions of the trail to portions of the trail located within the BCP its natural habitat. be closed. Here are excerpts of the letter: Lots of people were involved in this proj “The BCP is not a suitable place to locate ect and someone should have figured out a trail and such activity would not be con- before it was built that it would be illegal to sistent with the terms of the U.S. Fish and do so. Wildlife Service permit.
Balcones Canyonlands Preserve inaccuracies from RP homeowner Dear Leslee Bassman, As a home owner in the affected area and one who initially (2007) was not offered a view fence but was forced to accept an up to 14 foot tall fence in my backyard, I am amazed to read in your article that the BCP “continue discussions with these neighbors as we do with all neighbors abutting the property (BCP)”, because this is an absolute lie by the BCP. Our story Upon learning that a fence was to be erected behind our home in early 2007 we contacted the BCP and our HOA to request the view fence. Much to our surprise we were told that we could not get the view fence because the ordering period had expired. We were surprised to learn that all of the neighbors on Eagle Trace, Sun Tree, parts of Merrywing and Pelican Cove had been offered the view fence but not
us. The BCP representatives we spoke with were unhelpful, rude, and clearly had it out for us. Granted the BCP representatives had been fighting everyone affected and were clearly sick of the neighborhood, but to me their actions behind MY HOUSE are unforgivable. We were never given an option and now they claim that they do want to be good neighbors? We were called complaining and told that they didn’t care that we had not been contacted. End of discussion. So now that the BCP has shown that they can spend thousands on equipment and new fencing, maybe they should correct the fence they wrongly placed behind my house. Again I invite you to my home to see the fence for yourself. Best regards, Shawn Olsen River Place
Four Points News www.FourPointsNews.com
Four Points of View
Where is the best place to take bluebonnet photos?
Jayden Batts River Place
Carlos Caldas Steiner Ranch
Nicholas Schroeder Steiner Ranch
Jessica Lamkin Steiner Ranch
Quinlan Park Road, be- At Bee Caves and Highway At Mopac and Spicewood Springs or Far West. tween Steiner Ranch Bou- 71. levard and University Club Drive. People are taking lots of pictures there.
Four Points News Your Community Newspaper
PERSONNEL
On Quinlan Park Road by the entrance to Steiner Ranch, on top of the rocks. We’ve taken pictures of our kids there. The bluebonnets are great this year and everything is looking beautiful now.
3129 RIPPLING CREEK CT. AUSTIN, TEXAS 78732 TELEPHONE: 512-380-1405 FAX: 512-355-1774 E-MAIL: FOURPOINTSNEWS.EDIT@GMAIL.COM
Publisher & Editor...........................................................................LYNETTE HAALAND Associate Editor..................................................................................LESLEE BASSMAN Advertising Sales Representative....................................................HOLLIE KENNEY Creative Services..............................................................................JENNIFER ROBERTS Circulation....................................................................................................FRED FRANCO Reporter...............................................................................................................RICH KEITH Contributor............................................................................................ BRET CHAMPION
Published weekly in Four Points, Texas by Four Points News LLC. For subscription information, email inquiries to fourpointsnews.bookkeeping@gmail.com
Leslee Bassman named Four Points News Associate Editor
Following a career as an attorney and community volunteer, Leslee Bassman was ‘bitten’ by the journalism bug in 2009 when she accepted a sports writer position with Four Points News. “I have always enjoyed writing - whether it’s legal briefs or just essays for fun,” said Bassman. “When I heard that the Four Points News was looking for a reporter to cover the ‘new’ LISD high school, I ran right over with resume and writing samples in hand. It didn’t matter that I was dressed for a summer swim meet when I met the publisher; I just wanted
to be first in line for the position.” The native-Houstonian graduated from the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Communication with honors. Bassman moved west to earn a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law and spent several years practicing law before starting a family. Bassman worked her way up to cover sports programs in all five LISD high schools before she sought an opportunity to expand her reporting skills by covering community news for a long-time weekly newspaper. At the West Austin News, Bassman logged hundreds of hours covering high profile and large city
stories including Austin City Council elections, Austin Energy’s rolling blackouts, deer control, local victim advocacy programs and the City’s controversial public park and golf course smoking ban. But Bassman longed to get back to reporting the relevant news in her Four Points community. “I love this area with its beautiful terrain, lake and abundance of outdoor sports activities,” Bassman said. “I jumped at the chance to become involved in our community news once again”. Bassman, a resident of River Place, returned to the Four Points News after Steiner Ranch’s Lynette Haaland be-
came Publisher last summer. Bassman was recently promoted to Associate Editor of the community newspaper. Investigative reporting is just one area in which she shines. Her list of in-depth coverage over the years includes local crackdown on synthetic marijuana sales, murder trials, victims rights and the Texas Open Meetings Act. A photo from her work involving teen binge drinking was recently aired on the CBS Sunday Morning News. Bassman continues to live, work and kayak in Four Points with her husband, Rob, teenage daughters and a beloved English Pointer, Foreman.
Update on LISD licensing program Since our article regarding LISD’s new licensing program appeared in the March 1 edition, our staff has received numerous questions and concerns from interested readers. Recently, Leslee Bassman, Four Points News Associate Editor, asked school district officials for an update on the transition to the new procedure and received the following response from Veronica Sopher,
LISD Executive Director of School/Community Relations: “We are working with Sabre to get our marks trademarked as we speak. Our goal has always been to implement the program for the 2012-2013 school year. We've had numerous vendors ready to sign on, but we have to get our marks registered first. We'll be working on that in the coming months.
We are putting the final touches on a webpage with more information on the program that should be live later this week. We've been telling people who call and ask to just proceed like they've been, until the program is launched and just be mindful that there will be a new process for the next school year.”
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Thursday
March 29, 2012 • Page 5
Taking time for Texas Bluebonnets Job Fair
Community Events March 27
By LESLEE BASSMAN
Diabetes Alert Day American Diabetes Association encourages people to take the Diabetes Risk Test www.stopdiabetes.com
March 28 Steiner Ranch Neighborhood Association General Meeting Steiner Ranch Elementary 7pm
March 29 - 31 Concordia University Texas theatre’s All in the Timing Black Box Theatre, 11400 Concordia University Dr. 7:30 p.m.
March 30 Educating Austin Kids Spring Social Benefits Rising Stars Preschool scholarship ABLE’s Allison Elementary playground project 7- 10pm at Twin Creeks Country Club, Cedar Park
April 1 Lakeway Regional Medical Center Community Open House 1 - 4 p.m. at 100 Medical Parkway
April 1 Cupcake Craze - Four Points Foodie hosting food demo at Faraday’s Kitchen Store from Noon - 3pm
April 5 River Ridge Elementary Rattler Roundup Uncle Billy’s on Lake Travis. Music by Suede, food, live & silent auctions. Tickets now until March 23: $35. www.riverridge.my-pta. org from 6:30-10:30pm
April 7 18th annual Steiner Ranch Easter Egg Hunt John Simpson Park from 9:30 – 11:00am. Rain or Shine
April 13 Travis County Sheriff ’s Office Precinct 2 Child ID at Grandview Hills Elementary
In a month, they’ll be gone: the beautiful cone-shaped hues of purplish-blue and white Bluebonnets sprouting amidst the sea of golden-orange Indian Paintbrush which now adorn our Central Texas roads, adding charm to the otherwise mundane concrete highways. For most West Austinites, the first sign of these native flowers sprouting every March signifies the official start to springtime and a reminder of how fortunate we are to live where we do. Earlier this month, my oldest child was home from college for Spring Break. One of the things she requested to do was to take a mother-daughter road trip to Fredericksburg - a girl’s gotta shop! So, we loaded up the car with our reusable grocery bags and charged (pun intended)
ahead. choosing instead to take our It wasn’t long (we were still on time and relax. Surrounding us RM 620) before we felt the need was the usual hustle and bustle, to find caffeine. We passed up the even in this small town: a large usual coffee-chains to try some- table of local moms caught up place new and in a PTA planning unique along meeting, a group the way which of professionals enwe found gaged in a business at Dripping discussion and sevSprings’ Rolleral small tables of ing in Thyme individuals hard at and Dough work on their lapR e s t au r a nt . LESLEE BASSMAN tops. Stepping in With full tumside the conmies, we couldn’t verted older home, we were just get back in the car and sit caught up in the sights and for another hour. So we trotted smells of phenomenal European down a road or two, admiring pastries and coffees. We opted some of the homes from yesterfor something “nutritious”, two year before continuing on our croissant breakfast specials, and travels. found a table in the covered out- A little further out of town, we door patio. It was just so nice to spotted the Texas State Flower in stop and take a break that we all of its glory, peaking through didn’t request our order ‘to go’, the grasses lining our route. For
Ashley, the Spring wildflowers meant that she was home. To me, it was a reminder of how lucky and proud I am to call myself “Texan”. We bounced from shop to shop in Fredericksburg, looking for unique gifts for friends and family as well as bargains for ourselves. Despite the hectic daily lives we lead, Ashley as a student-athlete and I as a working, swim mom, we actually ‘meandered’, stopping for lunch and easy conversation in an outdoor cafe. It felt good. However, like our bluebonnets’ short season, Spring Break is over and it’s time to get back on the treadmill, literally and figuratively. As fragile as life is, I guess our bluebonnets are kind of a ‘nod’ from above: to cherish the special moments and people while we can.
18th annual Steiner Ranch Easter Egg Hunt, April 7 Four Points, get your baskets ready! Rain or shine, the Easter Bunny is visiting John Simpson Park on April 7, 2012. Festivities include face painting, pony rides, a petting zoo, balloon twister and more. The fun begins at 9:30 a.m. and lasts until 11:00 a.m.
Bring your camera for special photo opportunities! The Easter Egg Hunt begins promptly at 10 a.m. when thousands of Easter eggs will be placed on the park grounds and all children ages 10 and under are invited to gather for this “eggstra” special event.
Participants should start lining up along the sidewalk next to their dedicated age group at 9:55 a.m. Please wait for the fire truck or air horn to signal the big start. To ensure all children leave with eggs, we ask each child to limit their eggs to ONE DOZEN. Please keep this in mind when
your child is on the HUNT. All children will be divided by age group and two “special eggs” with prizes will be hidden for each age group. Please register at http://steineregghunt2012.eventbrite. com/ so the Easter Bunny know how many eggs to hide!
High School students compete to create anti-litter PSA A 30-second video depicting how litter can make its way to the Texas coast might just be the big break for some Central Texas high school filmmaker. Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson is calling for entries to the Trash Travels High
School PSA contest. All entries must be exactly 30 seconds long and based on the theme, “trash travels”. The winning entry will be aired on YNN, Time Warner Cable’s 24-hour local news channel, and the filmmaker will receive
ACL tickets, a tour of Robert Rodriguez’ Troublemaker Studios and a class party at Schlitterbahn, New Braunfels. “The idea of this contest is to get kids thinking about how trash travels,” Patterson said. “Litter in Central Texas can
make its way to the Gulf Coast, where we organize thousands of volunteers through the AdoptA-Beach Program to pick it up.” All entries must be received by April 2. For more contest details, rules and an entry form, visit www.texasadoptabeach.org.
lies,” Steiner said. “We are also proud to say we now have a Randalls.” Many who made the local Randalls at Quinlan Park Road and FM 620 possible - from just an idea three years ago to a real-
ity - were at the opening ceremonies and were recognized. “Our company joined the Austin community in 1972, and we are excited to offer our customers a brand new store,” said Paul McTavish, president of
Randalls. Four Points Chamber Chairman Ray Freer and Paul McTavish, president of Randalls also spoke.
RANDALLS, FROM 1 tomers,” said Yates, who emceed the event last week that hundreds attended. Bobby Steiner was the guest speaker at the opening ceremonies. The Professional Bull Riding Hall of Famer told of the days when Steiner Ranch was simply their Steiner family ranch where they raised their children and rodeo stock. “We are proud to be a part of a place with so many happy fami-
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CMYK Page 6 • Four Points News, Thursday, March 29, 2012
7th annual Run the Ranch drew a record crowd `The seventh annual Run the Ranch drew more than 520 runners, walkers, and little ones riding in jogging strollers. `The 5K, Kids K and Health Fair at the Towne Square Community Center in Steiner Ranch on March 3 set attendance records. `While the cool temperatures at the starting line had racers huddling together, the bright sun and the encouraging smiles alone the route kept racers motivated, said Volunteer Chriss Hexter. `Hill Country Bible Church was the title sponsor of the event and provided many volunteers. `Runners crossed the finish line to enjoy breakfast tacos from Rudy’s and coffee from Cups ‘n Cones. In typical Austin fashion, everyone was entertained by live music and train rides for the children. The Health Fair provided information and freebies from a variety of healthcare and fitness professionals. `Gene Arant Real Estate provided the race bags and Kids K medals, while Austin Asset Manage-
ment provided the race numbers and pace car. Other sponsors included Randalls, Randolph Brooks Credit Union, 620 Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Wild Basic Fitness, Yoga for Life, QualTech Automotive, Capital City Running, Stroller Strides and Austin Foot and Ankle. `The eighth annual Run the Ranch will be March 2, 2013.
Congratulations to our 2012 overall winners: Male Female 1. Sean O’Neil (six-time winner) 1. Jennifer Fisher 2. Stuart Will 2. Sydney Prucha 3. Dennis Moynihan 3. Hollie Kenney 4. Jim Moore 4. Catherine Bunch 5. Stephen MacLaren 5. Jordan Mathis Age Group winners: Male 1-10 Nico Canosa 11-19 Stephen MacLaren 20-29 Tim Sage 30-34 John Cook 35-39 Matthew Sanders 40-44 Jim Moore 45-49 John Stetson 50+ Manuel MacIas
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River Place Country Club hosted Summer Camp Open House By LESLEE BASSMAN Four Points News Four Points residents celebrated summer just a little bit early as River Place Country Club hosted its Summer Camp Open House. The festivities on March 7 featured every sport imaginable ‘under the sun’ despite event’s indoor site, even a bouncy house set up in the club’s dining room. The programs are open to members and nonmembers with featured camps including sports, tot, golf, tennis, karate, music, Lego, dance, gymnastics, and cheer. This year, local teens have the opportunity to enjoy a Teen Fitness Boot Camp and the ‘younger set’ can explore the community areas with RPCC’s Outdoor Adventure Camp. Registration is already underway for the 2012 River Place Rapids swim team, with the season’s first parent meeting set for April 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the RPCC. For more information on RPCC summer programs, click on www.riverplaceclub.com or call 512-246-1114, ext. 3900.
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Four Points News, Thursday, March 29, 2012 • Page 7
Viper Band student returns to elite marching corps Steiner Ranch Old Pros inaugural golf tourney April 14 By RICH KEITH Four Points News Vandegrift High School Viper Band Junior Sammy McCullar has been invited to a second season with the Crossmen, an elite drum corps out of San Antonio. McCullar plays French horn in the band and plays the mellophone on the marching field. He earned his place over dozens of applicants during his audition. "At the audition camp you play two pieces of music in front of a Crossmen brass staff member and they decide if you are fit for the corps. I'm now considered a Crossmen veteran, which increased my chances of getting back into the corps, but I still had Viper Band Junior Sammy McCullar has been invited to a second seato audition this year," McCullar son with The Crossmen, an elite drum corps out of San Antonio. McCullar earned his place over dozens of applicants during his audition. said. The Crossmen are one of only "I had to learn and memorize the bus. After arriving at a housing 23 World Class Drum and Bugle 10 minutes of music and drill. site (a high school gym) usually Corps, and they are the only That may not sound like a lot, but late at night or early in the mornWorld Class corps in Texas. it can be hundreds of bars of mu- ing, the corp would unload and The Crossmen are often called sic, and hundreds of specific steps. get a couple more hours of sleep. a traditional drum corps because This took me almost all of spring Then it's up bright and early for they do not use a lot of props. training! This time around I will a stretch-and-run, breakfast and Being the only World Class be learning with the group, and then on to several hours of pracCorps in Texas, the Crossmen de- not on my own after everyone else tice to prepare for their next comvelop a high tolerance for heat. has already learned the music and petition. "Because we rehearse 12 hours the drill," he explained. The Crossmen travel all over a day in 100 degree weather every Once "spring training" is fin- the eastern half of the US in comday for the first two weeks of the ished in San Antonio, The Cross- petitions and they enter some exseason, this makes the rest of tour men hit the road. Their first stop hibitions. There is a competition feel like spring instead of sum- is playing on the steps of the Texas nearly every day. Their season mer." Capitol on June 16. ends in early August at a finals McCullar is excited because this The Crossmen are in a city for a competition with all of the corps is his second year with the Cross- just day or two. It's great to travel in Indianapolis, Indiana. men and he knows what to ex- the country but "I really didn't get "My role in the Crossmen as a pect. Additionally it will be easier to see much other than the dif- veteran is to set an example for the than last year, when he signed his ferent high schools we stayed at." rookies," McCullar said. There is contract in the middle of "spring Most of their travel is at night af- not time for much else. training," which are the weeks ter a competition and the students "Some days, we literally sleep, prior to the start of touring. learn to sleep as soon as they hit eat and march." TRAIL, FROM 1 endangered species and their habitat contained within the 30,428 acres comprising the BCP. According to Austin Water Utility Conservation Program Coordinator Amanda Ross, the City was obligated to remove the trail and restore the area back to a wildlife habitat; otherwise, its federal permit to manage the entire preserve system would be in jeopardy. Ross confirmed that the City asked the River Place MUD to close the “illegally built” trail sections before March 9 but that the “River Place MUD did not comply with this request.” As a result, the City of Austin Wildland Conservation Division closed a section of River Place’s Upper Panther Hollow Trail between the Tributary View and Emergency Exit parameters on March 20. “The trail was closed in an ef-
fort to regain compliance status with its federal permit,” Ross said. She also stated that the MUD did not follow the City’s Master Trail Plan procedures before building the newest phase of its River Place Nature Trail. Following a Wednesday meeting between the River Place MUD and City officials, the Board posted additional signage explaining the closure. Kevin Buchman, City of Austin Wildland Conservation Division spokesperson, confirmed on Friday that the portion of the trail which was closed would not be reopened. Both parties, River Place MUD Board and City of Austin, have provided two different scenarios as to when the trail planners and Board officials had notice that the trail encroached onto BCP land. River Place MUD President
James Casey stated that he was not aware that there was a problem until he received a demand letter from Austin Water Utility’s Wildland Conservation Division’s Conrad in early January 2012 asking the Board to shut down a portion of the trail. According to Casey, the Board complied with Conrad’s request to close the trail and put up signs related to the closure. Casey added that the Board does not police the signs and that the signs may have been removed. However, at least one other Board member and Ross stated that a sketch was given to City officials in 2008 showing the nature trail and the area at issue. According to a MUD Board member, the City failed to provide board officials with a concise map of the area showing preserve boundaries.
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The Hills’ Flint Rock Falls golf course in West Austin will host the Steiner Ranch Old Pros inaugural golf tournament on April 14, allowing residents an opportunity to play one of the top private courses in Central Texas. Play format is an 18 Hole Two Man Scramble and tee
times start at 12:30 p.m. Event fees of $125 for members or guests include green fees, cart, prizes, grill dinner and a charitable donation of $25. Tournament proceeds will support the Old Pros organization. Half of the optional team skins game fees of $20 is slated
for charity as well as all proceeds received from $5 mulligans. Steiner Ranch Old Pros members have priority for the 40 available spots. Sponsorship information can be obtained by contacting Scott Kunkel at kunkel1@live.com or visiting the Old Pros homepage.
HARAIS, FROM 1 “We literally had 60 seconds to leave the house,” TJ said. Carson carried his bass and his PS/3 out to the car. His sister Elise got her phone, some clothes, four rabbits and the dog. TJ grabbed the two family PCs, a collection of photos that were handy and his seven guitars. Norma put together some clothes and a few essentials and was so busy supervising that she forgot her luggage containing her clothes, jewelry and emergency cash. It was right by the door. Later, standing in the parking lot of the local H-E-B grocery store, Norma looked down and noticed her kids were hopping around on the hot pavement. “Put on some shoes,” she gently scolded, and the look on their faces told her what she had just guessed, they had no shoes. “It was so difficult not to be able to get any information,” Norma recalled. They received some texts from friends who either had not yet left the neighborhood or who had resisted the evacuation order. Ultimately they received a video showing their house on fire, and later they found the house was a total loss. The Harais family stayed at the
home of TJ’s boss in River Place for five days. Soon help came from a local realtor who rented them a home in the UT Golf Club community, where they stayed for a few months before moving to another rental in Steiner Ranch. Like other families displaced by the fires, they all went through a grieving period. Norma sifted through the ashes for days. “Something must be salvageable here,” she would tell herself. TJ was the opposite. Looking at the flattened house he thought, “I’m done; I want nothing to do with this.” TJ said they learned two big lessons: “We were reminded of the kindness of humanity and especially our neighbors. And material possessions mean nothing,” he said. This last casualty was particularly tough to endure. Lost in the fire was a 1972 short bed pickup truck which TJ had been restoring for son Carson. The father-son project was more than 75 percent complete, and the pair had spent hundreds, perhaps thousands of hours restoring the pickup to pristine condition.
“Take pictures, as your insurance agent has told you to do. Trust me on this one,” TJ lamented. Although they said they had a great insurance experience overall. The family talked a lot about whether to rebuild or to move on. They decided that being in the same neighborhood was a good thing because of the familiarity with the people, the environment, though now still scorched, and the schools. Knowing it could never be the same again actually freed them up to do some creative design on a floor plan. “We didn’t try to re-create the same house we lived in for 18 years,” Norma said. The Harais’ have just broken ground on their new home. The kids participated in the design. Norma has designed an art studio for herself, a family music studio, and their new home will have a four-car “stacked” garage with shop space for those car projects soon to come. “We had always planned on staying in Steiner Ranch before the fires, and we still love it here,” Norma said. CHAMBER, FROM 1
The Board contracted with local Environmental Survey Consulting to build the original trail in 2000 as well as design and build the 2009 extension. Casey stated that at some time in 2008, Environmental Survey Consulting’s Project Leader emailed “City of Austin personnel regarding the trail extension location”. However, Casey said that since the Board does not review the emails of their consultants or contractors even if they pertain to projects they are working on for the River Place MUD, he was unaware of any encroachment issue which may have been conveyed to the MUD’s trail builder in 2008. He added that Project Leader Stan Wilson’s sketch for City officials was only a “hypothetical.” The Four Points News contacted Stan Wilson, now a Senior Project Manager at Environmental Survey Consulting. Wilson stated that he had “no comment on the issue” and said, I don’t think it’s at that point yet when asked about contacting his attorney. At one point last week, Casey and other Board members had hoped the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would approve the River Place Na-
ture Trail extension retroactively and believed that such exemptions had been approved in other locations. However, the latest information gathered by the Board shows that, upon further review, the federal agency will not approve the trail portion in dispute. No new work on the trail can be conducted until the mating season of two endangered species of birds residing in the preserve ends in August. “People using the trail are disappointed and we are disappointed that the trail was made without our knowledge,” Ross said. Casey estimates that the Nature Trail extension cost the River Place MUD, and therefore River Place residents, about $150,000. At issue now is the cost to repair the affected portions of the trail to its natural habitat and, should the Board decide to move a segment of the trail, the cost of reconnecting the two currently unattached sections. On Friday, at least one website devoted to local hiking, www.texashiking.com, posted an advisory warning hikers of the River Place Nature Trail closure and that trespassing into the closed area would “leave the hiker in danger of being charged with criminal trespass.”
tournament on October 22 at River Place Country Club. The Chamber is also attracting bigger companies to join. “We did not have any of the larger businesses getting into the chamber at the start,” Freer said. Now H-E-B, Randalls, Home Depot, Concordia University Texas, Round Rock Express, Whataburger, Schlotzsky’s, Regions Bank, Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union, and United Heritage Federal Credit Union to name some of the larger companies now members. At first the Chamber only had the monthly lucheons and now it has added networking events like the Four Points Connectors that meets twice a month to help small businesses build relationships and grow connections in the area. “We are looking at adding additional opportunities for networking on a weekly basis in the upcoming months,” Freer said. The Chamber has also added monthly social hours at various member locations. “Most enjoyable is the fact is that we have so many great people in our community who are business owners,” Freer said. “Members learn from each other.” Just this week Four Points Chamber was honored with a recognition by Austin Business Journal in its selection of "26 Chambers Of Commerce."
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Stars of the Week
Thursday
Page8 • March 29, 2012
James Patrick Gonzales III-
T R A C K
Senior
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Track: James Patrick Gonzales III Senior Favorite part about being involved in Viper Track: The respect schools show each other at large track meets as they compete. Everybody strives to do their best to help their team and push their self to their full potential.
Thomas O’Brien -
B A S E B A L L
Junior
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Viper Girls Soccer wins District Title with CP tie, 1 - 1 Vandegrift High School Girls Soccer played Cedar Park on March 23.Friday. “Friday night the girls went into the game knowing a district title was only a tie away but being the rivalry that it is, they were playing for the win,” said Jenifer Hardy, Girls Soccer Head Coach. “The game was intense to say the least!” Vipers struck first with a “beautiful” header from Savannah Cavanaugh off one of Quinn Zulkowski’s consistently well placed corners, Hardy said. Even with the increased adrenaline from the score, Cedar Park came back to tie up the game before the half, also off a corner kick which just barely got by the Lady Viper Defense. The attempts on goal from both teams continued throughout the second half but both defenses and keepers kept the half 0-0. “It was an amazing competition to witness. I couldn’t be more proud of the girls for taking the team as far as they have already,” Hardy said. All of the girls are extremely excited about their current success and just want to take it one game at a time, the coach said. Friday March 30, Vipers take on Austin Crocket at home at 7:30 p.m. for the bi-district round of play offs.
Freshman
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Golf: I like being a part of the golf program because if gives me a chance to meet and compete against people from other schools and our coach wants us to be successful and helps us out whenever we need help.
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Senior
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Track: Gretta Smith Senior Favorite part about being involved in Viper Track: My favorite thing about track is getting to race every weekend because I like the strategy I get to use in the distance races when I can see my paces every lap.
G O L F
Favorite part about being involved in Viper Baseball: The team concept and team bonding.
Four Points News
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Viper Boys Soccer wins District with CP win, 2 - 1 Vandegrift High School Boys Soccer played Cedar Park on March 23, winning 2 - 1. Their overall record was 13-8-1 and 8-2 in district play. “The Viper Soccer men have worked relentlessly for this program to get to where they are today,” said Head Coach Chad Aldrich. VHS Boys played numerous respected teams and the best in the area, he added. “Hats off to our district because it is not easy by any means. I couldn't be prouder of what the boys have given up to make Vandegrift soccer where we are today,” Aldrich said. “They work without question, without doubt, and most importantly, together as a family,” he said. He added he hopes each senior class can lead like this one. Viper boys play this Friday, 6 p.m. at Nelson field versus Austin Travis.
Above: Victory run to the fans after the game!
Photos by: Mike Batek
Vandegrift Voice
Christopher Jensen (left), Rand Fredrickson (lower), and Stephen McCue as goalie against Leander HS.
Vandegrift Voice
Collin Stobart moves the ball down the field at a game versus Rouse at home.
Viper Tennis takes the podium at Kemah Boardwalk Invitational Out of a total of 64 teams competing at Clear Creek High School’s Kemah Boardwalk Invitational on March 23-24, Vandegrift High School’s tennis squad posted an impressive top three finish in the Boys Singles division. Viper Dillon Launius put up the “W” against Boerne Champion’s Jared Fellows, 6-3,
3-6, 10-5 for the third place honor. Vandegrift’s Mixed Doubles team of Maria Giral and Chad Howland was awarded tenth place in the tourney after defeating Katy Taylor. Nina Rodriguez beat Westlake’s Megan Hahn for the Consolation Finals Winner spot.
Viper Basketball awarded top accolades this season The Vandegrift boys basketball team recently received the following awards for their performance on the court and in the classroom during the 2011-12 season: 2nd Team All-District - Nick Florence, John Hirschhorn Honorable Mention All-District - Dakota Prukop Academic All-District Ryan Brewster, Matt Dang, Tyler Eyre, Nick Florence, J. T.
Graham, Zach Hartman, John Hirschhorn, Raine Hoffman, Gunner Linhart, Dakota Prukop, Cody Witt 1st Team, THSCA Academic All-State (Seniors only) - Nick Florence Honorable Mention, THSCA Academic All-State (Seniors only) – Matt Dang TABC Academic All-State (Seniors only) - Matt Dang, Nick Florence
Join us Sunday, April 8, for an inspiring Easter message. Services: 9:30 and 11:00 am at Laura Bush Elementary in Steiner Ranch or... 6:45 am Sunrise Service at HCBC NW Campus Also, don’t miss the children’s choir on Palm Sunday, April 1.
For more information, visit steiner.hcbc.com | 12600 Country Trails Lane, Austin TX 78732 | 512.331.5050
Idodalia Ramos
CMYK
Viper Softball Spotlight
Four Points News www.FourPointsNews.com
Thursday
March 29, 2012 • Page 9
Lady Viper Softball showed Lake Travis their stuff during the March 16 game. Top Left : Callaway Barr-freshman Pitcher Left Middle: Paige McCollumsophomore, outfielder at bat. Bottom Left: Coach Riggen and Coach Driver sound off with the team.
Madison Collins -freshman, Madison Tierney- Senior, Addie OunSenior, Kaitlyn Johnson-junior, Callaway Barr-freshman wait for as a call was being discussed by the coach and umpire.
Q& A
Coach Wendy Huber talks to the team after the game.
4. Is there a hidden treasure on your team who might be unknown now but could potentially have a major impact on the coming season?
Photo Texas Photography
All of my players are treasures and each one of them have an impact on the success of our program. 5. What motivates you as a coach and why did you choose the sport you did?
with Softball Coach Wendy Huber
1. What has to happen for your team to be successful this season? We have to believe that we are as good as we are. 2. What is your biggest concern heading into the season? Injuries. 3. Who is Vandegrift’s biggest rival or biggest game to prepare for and why? Every school is a rival and the biggest game. We prepare for each of the teams we play daily. We don’t give one team more credit over any other because in the long run to make playoffs every team we play and beat counts.
I played all sports in high school, but softball was the sport that I found the most success in. I love softball because it challenges you daily both mentally and physically. To me, the thing that motivates me the most about coaching, is that I get the opportunity to have a positive impact on an athlete’s life every day. I get to wake up every morning and hopefully change someone’s life. 2011 Record Overall: 7-20 District: 1-11
Varsity:
Returning Statistical Leaders: Madison Tierney (Sr), Kaitlyn Johnson (JR), Ally Holland (Soph) Top Newcomers: Addie Oun (SR), Callaway Barr (Fresh), Madison Collins (Fresh), Ariel Barraza (Fresh)
2012 Vandegrift Softball Schedule
2011-2012 Vandegrift Softball Roster Callaway Barr Ariel Barraza Madison Collins Langlie Cooley Ally Holland Kaitlyn Johnson Paige McCollum Addie Oun Jasmine Smith Madison Tierney
Day
Date
Opponent
Site
Time
TUE FRI TUE THUR TUE THUR FRI SAT TUE FRI
27-Mar 30-Mar 3-Apr 5-Apr 10-Apr 12-Apr 13-Apr 14-Apr 17-Apr 20-Apr
Rouse Marble Falls Cedar Park Dripping Springs Lake Travis Tentative LISD JV Tourn. Hyde Park Tentative LISD JV Tourn Vista Ridge Rouse
VHS Marble Falls Cedar Park VHS Lake Travis TBA Hyde Park TBA VHS Rouse
5:00/7:00 PM 5:00/7:00 5:00/7:00 5:00/7:00 PM 5:00/7:00 PM TBA 5:30/7:00 TBA 5:00/7:00 PM 5:00/7:00
Live at the Lake
across from Steiner Ranch A summer of Science Discovery… starts at School in the Hills IN STEINER RANCH
Spring Fling • Pre season camp for kids age 5-18 at Bella Mar Pool • April 9th - May 4th • $130 for the 4 weeks or $35/week
3 BR/2.5 BA - 2,402 sq ft
For more information, contact us at austinelite@austin.rr.com or call: 512-298-USAS (8727)
13214 Mansfield Drive
CO O PER G RO U P 512-470-2277 www.GoldwasserRealEstate.com
Greg Cooper
Kari Cooper
Also Available
PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS! For kids ages 3-15
Juin Cooper
For more information, contact us at austinelite@austin.rr.com or call: 512-298-USAS (8727)
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. Visit schoolinthehills.com/summer for more information. Call 512-266-6160 to schedule a tour or to reserve a spot for this summer.
Join Us for an Open House Saturday, April 21st from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2900 N. Quinlan Park Austin, TX 78732
Phone 512.266.6160 schoolinthehills.com
CMYK Page 10 • Four Points News, Thursday, March 29, 2012