Georgetown - Round Rock
HAVE YOU SEEN ME? Big White Dog Summer Birding
Golf Tips
JULY 2017
It’s your dream. Let’s make it a reality. At Capital Farm Credit, we understand that a piece of land is more than a place to go hunting; it’s an escape where you create memories with family and friends. That’s why we’re with you every step of the way throughout the entire lending process. We’re a cooperative, and that means your goals are our goals. And our «>ÌÀ >}i ` Û `i ` «À }À> i> à Üi à >Ài ÕÀ «À w Ìà > ` «ÕÌ iÞ L>V Þ ÕÀ « V iÌ° iV>ÕÃi Üi½Ài > Ì Ã Ì }iÌ iÀ° Ƃ ` Ì }iÌ iÀ Üi½Ài LiÌÌiÀ°
Together we’re better. Partnership that really pays.
capitalfarmcredit.com | 877.944.5500 NMLS493828
Gumbos North 512-943-4214 Gumbosrr@sbcglobal.net
Georgetown, Texas located on the square!
Steaks & Seafood
Express Menu available now for lunch!
Served in 20 minutes or less!
Teffany & Robert Kahn Founders & Co Editors
Shane Ragsdale - Event Pit Master & Kathy Ragsdale Co Editor & Writer
A Shot Of Texas Magazine is excited to share a publication about Texas Style Outdoor Living. Outdoor hobbies, wildlife photo’s and content relating to home and self improvement are topics of engagement included in RXU FRQWHQW $IWHU ¿YH \HDUV RI VXFFHVV ZLWK DQ RXWGRRU publication in Houston, our family decided to expand by adding a local magazine. As outdoor enthusiast and a family who has a passion for nature and the outdoors, it only made sense to expand our magazine to include Central Texas and the Hill Country. We hope you enjoy our new magazine! We welcome your feedback and suggestions, just email us at tef@ashotoftexas. net, rob@ashotoftexas.net or Kendall Rae Kahn camogirl@ashotoftexas.net. Junior Editor & Event Planner
Music & Entertainment Editor Lois Jenison Publicist, Poet, Lyricist, & “Promotress” of local Singers, Songwriters, & Musicians
Life’s a song! Sing it! Georgetown - Round Rock
HAVE YOU SEEN ME? Big White Dog Summer Birding
Golf Tips
Butch Ramirez Wildlife Photographer 4 Shot of Texas Magazine™
JULY 2017
Over the last few years I have built a career that allows me to be present for things that matter most, like my family. I am driven to help people capture their most fleeting moments and deliver memories that you can treasure for a lifetime. Weddings, portraits, and events are my business, but I got my start in landscape photography while studying abroad in Europe and it is still a hobby of mine today. Check out more of my work at www.kpphotographydesigns.com Kayla Prasek PHOTOGRAPHY
ABOUT THE COVER: Wildlife photographer Butch Ramirez graces our cover shot this month. It is one of dozens of front covers that he can add to his list. There are many more beautiful shots inside. Thank You Butch.
*IEXYVIW .YP] 8 The Big White Dog by Rob Kahn
26 German Texas Cowgirl Evelyn Billington by Lois Jenison
12 Birds Of Color 28 Golf Tips Correct Fitting
by The Bird Ladies
14 Dale’s Walburg
by The Golf Ranch
18 Through The Lens
32 Summer Coastal Fishing by Nathan Beabout
24 Gardening While Exercising
All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. For current Media Kit, advertising or questions about our Traveling Trade Show
by Kathy Ragsdale
by Butch Ramirez
C 2014 A Shot of Texas Magazine.
34 Shoot Graci
contact Rob Kahn. Email rob@ashotoftexas.net 2IÂżFH RU &HOO
by Graci Weber
HELPING NAVIGATE TURBULENT FINANCIAL WATERS! ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
TOLL FREE 855.463.8848 / OFFICE: 512.900.7887 Scott C. Olson, AIF , AAMS ÂŽ
Private Wealth Manager One Financial Centre 1717 N. IH 35, Suite 150 Round Rock, TX 78664
ÂŽ
For 20 years, Scott Olson served in the U.S. Army. Throughout his 10 years as a Financial Wealth Manager, Scott has applied his OfďŹ cer training and military integrity as he focuses on his clients’ ďŹ nancial future. Securities offered through Sigma Financial Corporation. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sigma Planning Corporation. Upstream Investment Partners is independent of Sigma Financial Corporation & SPC.
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 5
Networking Around Town
Interested in attending our networking events? Meeting new friends and business prospects, prizes, social happy hour, that is what we are about. RSVP tef@ashotoftexas.net and request to join our email list for events!
OUR HAPPY HOUR JUST GOT HAPPIER 5-7pm Daily $1.75 Domestic Pints $2.50 Wells $2.50 Domestic Bottles 1/2 price on select appetizers
Bellamy Brothers
Fri August 18. Get your tickets now before they’re gone!
512-869-5454
WWW.HARDTAILSBARANDGRILL.COM 6 Shot of Texas Magazine™
Kathy and Shane Ragsdale chilling on the patio at Scott’s Oyster Bar June Networking Event!
“Kyle Simank of Gun’s Plus wins big at the Root’s Bistro networking event! Chalk up another Grizzly Cooler give away.”
Russell Kriewald with The Joint Chiropractic was the lucky Grizzly Cooler winner at Scott’s Oyster Bar Networking Event.
A few gray hairs doesn’t make us slow, it makes us thorough
10% OFF
Mention Bailey SAVE 10%
Just mention Bailey our CEO and receive 10% off our normal $147.00 maintenance contract fort 2 calls per year; 2 years parts and labor warranty.
512-869-5017 GEORGETOWNAC.COM A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 7
The BIG White Dog by Robert Kahn
8 Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢
f you’ve ever spent any time at all on the back roads near Georgetown, TX you may have noticed large white dogs out in the middle of what looks like nowhere. It so happens that these dogs are not aimlessly roaming around doing nothing as it might initially seem. They are dutifully protecting livestock on a farm consisting of anything that ranges from sheep, chickens, ducks, goats, rabbits, to guineas. This is a story of one of these large white dogs that goes by the name Dartanyon. The pup is GiGi, Dartanyon’s granddaughter. Dartanyon and GiGi belong to a special breed of dog called the Great Pyrenees, a guardian breed best known for its ability to herd cattle and guard property, goats, and other livestock from predators such as raccoons, mountain lions, opossums, and coyotes. The Great Pyrenees originates in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain and descends from the Tibetan Mastiff, hence the Pyr’s large size. These livestock guardian dogs have thick, long white coats, typically weigh between 90 and 125 lbs (41 to 57 kgs), and stand anywhere from 25 to 32 in (64 to 81 cm) high. In order to train these dogs to be attentive and protective of goats, for instance, they must be placed with the flock when the puppy is around eight weeks old. For two weeks, human contact with the dog will be kept to a bare minimum, except to feed and water. During those two weeks the dog will form a bond with his flock that dates back over 10,000 years. After this introduction and bonding process takes place, the dog can be released and will begin moving amongst his new flock in comfort and ease. His owner can now also become a part of his or her life and interact like any regular dog relationship. The common term 24/7, should
I
HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES
• Weekly • Bi-weekly • Monthly • Move-in/ Move-Out
Bonded & Insured!
512-639-3906 www.HISwaycleaning.com A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 9
SERVING GEORGETOWN AREA FOR 50 YEARS
AMAZING SELECTION 2100 N AUSTIN AVENUE
512-863-2867 WWW.TOWNSQUAREFLOORS.COM
10 Shot of Texas Magazine™
have been coined for this mighty breed as they are always on the job. At night I can hear the deep bellow barking at the farthest corners of our ranch here in Georgetown. Over the seven years since Dartanyon arrived we have yet to lose any livestock whereas the neighbors who went it alone has had a group of thirty goats slaughtered by coyotes. It is good goat business to keep one dog per ten acres of land. This will assure that they can cover the entire area effectively. One day last winter Dart came home with a limp and covered in blood. His right forepaw had been sliced to the bone by wild hogs. There was NO WAY that he could be loaded into the truck for a trip to the hospital, in fact he refuses to wear a collar and shrieks in fear when we try putting it on him. You Tube and two summers of working in a veterinary clinic saved the day. I sewed him up with verbal instructions from my wife and without a single complaint from Dart. I bandaged his wound and gave him penicillin shots for three days. That first twelve hours that he slept was as close as he ever came to taking a break. The unique circular tail wagging of this breed let us know he was alright. I love my dogs, they love me. All is well. We would love to hear from you about your dog. Please feel free to drop us a line or two. Email mydog@ashotoftexas.net. MORE FACTS ABOUT THE GREAT PYRENEES: The Great Pyrenees’ intelligence, protective instincts, gentle demeanor, and affectionate nature make them excellent at obeying commands in their master’s presence and defending both the farm and livestock in his/her absence. This breed has several
Meet Bree and read about her amazing story and how “Undercover Boss” brought her to Georgetown. Mention this Ad for a free wine glass. One per group please. 1008 Rock Street, Georgetown 512-591-0797 Studio140@paintingwithatwist.com PHWKRGV IRU SURWHFWLQJ WKH À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¶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
Attic Insulation Free Estimates
Call Marc
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 11
BIRDS OF COLOR
Oh, what a sight to see, a Painted Bunting in a tree!
12 Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢
Texas residents are fortunate to be right in the center of the largest Painted Bunting nesting area in the 8QLWHG 6WDWHV 7KHVH PDJQLĘŽFHQWO\ colored birds are just four and a half LQFKHV RI EULJKW SULPDU\ FRORUV DQG often mistaken for “escapedâ€? South $PHULFDQ SDUURWV EXW WKH\ DUH ČŒOHJDOČ? \HDUO\ UHVLGHQWV RI 7H[DV 3DLQWHG Buntings can be seen in Texas from April through November. Male painted buntings have red breasts and rumps, green backs, blue heads and dark wings. Females are greenish above and buff below. These EHDXWLIXO ELUGV ZLOO IDYRU \DUGV ZLWK dense shrubs and vegetation and XVXDOO\ QHVW LQ EXVKHV RU EUXVK WKUHH WR VL[ IHHW RII WKH JURXQG 7KH\ VWD\ with one mate during the breeding
season when the female will usualO\ OD\ WZR EURRGV RI EOXH JUD\ speckled eggs. The incubation peULRG ODVWV GD\V EXW DIWHU QLQH GD\V WKH Ę?HGJOLQJV OHDYH WKH QHVW and the male takes over the training leaving the female free to begin building a new nest for another clutch. During the breeding season the bird’s diet is high in bug consumpWLRQ RWKHUZLVH WKH\ DUH VHHG HDWLQJ and prefer white proso millet as their birdseed of choice. These birds are VK\ EXW WKH\ ZLOO FRPH WR WUXVW \RX LI \RX NHHS IUHVK RU UXQQLQJ ZDWHU DQG PLOOHW ĘŽOOHG IHHGHUV DYDLODEOH %H SDWLHQW DQG FRQVLVWHQW DQG \RX ZLOO VHH WKHVH VSOHQGLGO\ FRORUIXO ELUGV (QMR\ WKH EHDXW\ WKDW IOLHV around us, The Bird Ladies
ĎĎĎŹĎŻ tĹ?ĹŻĹŻĹ?Ä‚ĹľĆ? ĆŒÍ˜ ĹŻÄšĹ? Ď° 'ÄžĹ˝ĆŒĹ?ÄžĆšĹ˝Ç ĹśÍ• dy ϳϴϲώϴ ĎąĎώͲϲϴϴͲϹώϳϴ Ä?ĹšĹ?ĆŒĆ‰Î›Ĺ?ĆšĆ?Ä¨Ĺ˝ĆŒĆšĹšÄžÄ?Ĺ?ĆŒÄšĆ?͘Ä?Ĺ?ÇŒ ĎϏͲϹ͗ϯϏ dƾĞĆ?Í´ &ĆŒĹ?ĚĂLJ ^Ä‚ĆšĆľĆŒÄšÄ‚Ç‡ ĎϏͲώ͗ϏϏ
512-608-3803
402 w. morrow st GEORGETOWN, TX
TUESDAY-SATURDAY 11AM-8PM fullhousebbqgt@att.net
FULL HOUSE
BBQ
NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HEALTH - Georgetown’s only compounding pharmacy. 2QO\ WKH óQHVW TXDOLW\ 9LWDPLQV 6XSSOHPHQWV DYDLODEOH $1<:+(5( &RPH WU\ RXU 9LWDPLQ & IDFH VHUXP )UHH VDPSOHV ZKLOH WKH\ ODVW
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 13
DALE’S ESSENHAUS CELEBRATE WITH US 14 Shot of Texas Magazine™
something very rare in Williamson County. A few years later, he added a second section to the main restaurant, for smaller private parties or to accommodate the RYHUÀRZ RI SDWURQV WKDW LV QRZ WKH QRUP on weekends. The newest addition, which is now available to rent, is the Wedding Garden. A large garden area, just outside the banquet hall’s back door, and completely private. The only outside entry to the Garden is through two very high, decorative wooden doors. It comes complete with a rock water fall, a koi pond, a rose garden and those same huge old oaks, with their beautiful canopies. The wedding venue was in the works for quite a while, be-
16 Shot of Texas Magazine™
cause it was built almost entirely by Dale, his friends and neighbors; in many cases, friends helping friends for the cost of a few beers at the end day. <RX ZLOO ÂżQG VRPHWKLQJ JRLQJ RQ every weekend, and often, several events. In the summer, reunions for local high school graduating classes abound, as do birthday parties and retirement parties. Once it starts getting cold, there is a roarLQJ ÂżUH SLW RXWVLGH LQ WKH ELHUJDUWHQ WR keep you warm. Dale’s Essenhaus also ofIHUV IDFLOLWLHV IRU PDQ\ FKDULWDEOH EHQHÂżWV a community coming together to help a neighbor in need. Dale’s does not just proYLGH D YHQXH IRU WKHVH EHQHÂżWV DV SDUW RI the community, he is an active participant. To reserve any of these venues, just contact the manager and co-owner, Bonnie Warwick. Although she has only been with Dale’s for 7 years (not long in Walburg years) she keeps everything under control. While Dale is the name behind the business, making it the success it is today, Bonnie is managing the daily details, the venue reservations, the advertising and even waiting tables. According to Dale, “It’s all about the food.â€? Dale’s menu is a mixture of healthy home cooking and comfort food. He grinds his own hamburger, stuffs his own sausage, and uses fresh, locally
grown seasonal veggies. The restaurant is best known for the Original Walburger, a handmade, half-pound hamburger RQ D WRDVWHG EXQ ZLWK DOO WKH ¿[LQJV considered by some to be a meal for two. And if the Walburger isn’t reason enough to head out to Dale’s, the Walburger has experienced several spinoffs. There is the 4Alarm Walburger, Black Jack Walburger, Mushroom Swiss Walburger, the Baja Walburger, and the Texas Walburger. There is even the Stuewe Special, served with no bun and a side salad. Other items range from Fried Pickles and Texas Toothpicks to steaks, shrimp and tilapia (all come either fried or grilled) to Pork Schnitzel (it is, after all, a German community) and, of course, BBQ ribs and homemade jalapenocheese sausage. And there is always a long list of fresh veggies and home cooked sides on the menu boards, which change daily. For those that drink: bottled water, milk, orange juice, sodas (cans, not fountain) and a large selection of wine and beer. And, of course, dessert: German apple cake with caramel sauce, several different cobblers, DQG EUHDG SXGGLQJDOO VHUYHG ZLWK RU without ice cream. My favorite is the German apple cake, and I don’t mean my favorite dessert. My favorite item on the PHQXHYHU
Obviously, Dale’s Essenhaus has a lot to celebrate. September 9, 2017 will not just be a recognition of longevity, for the restaurant or Dale, because September 9th is also Dale Cockerell’s birthday. It will be a celebration of community; a tribute to all those participants, be they friends, family, neighbors or visitors looking for some old fashion family fun, who helped Dale’s become the icon it is today. That said, they would love to see any pictures that you have and hear your stories of how Dale’s has touched you over the last 20 years. You can share your memories on Facebook at #IKnowDale20Years. So, come on out to Dale’s Essenhaus on Saturday, September 9, 2017, to celebrate its 20 years of community and family entertainment. The agenda KDV QRW EHHQ FRQ¿UPHG EXW , ZRXOG EH willing to bet that there will be lots of good food, live music, and just maybe VRPH ¿UHZRUNV I plan on being there early to bag a good table, listen to good music, and have a piece or two of German Apple Cake‌It is, after all, a German community.
$29.00 Initial Visit Consultation, Exam & Adjustment We accept FSA/HSA
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 17
Through By Butch Ramirez
18 Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢
the Lens I
n this new section, I will feature some interesting photos of a variety of wildlife and nature, as seen “Through the Lens”. Today’s feature is Photo Safari’s or photo workshops on private ranches. Photo Safari’s or Photo Workshops on private ranches are gaining in popularity for many photographers of all levels. In South Texas, several of these ranches are realizing an additional income potential for their properties, and not losing income producing wildlife in the process.
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 19
20 Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢
A Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢ 21
Photographers from all across the U S are willing to pay to access properties that are set up for close up photography. Setups include placing photo blinds, strategically placed for morning or evening sunshine, and a consistent food and water supply for the critters. As a result, we have attracted and photographed over 90 species of birds, as well as deer, hogs, javelina, coyotes, bobcats, and other photogenic critters, up close and personal, that exist on our Rocking R6 Ranch and other properties. Many of my magazine “Cover Shots” are captured using these techniques. Here are just a few, of thousands of images I have taken, using setups I have created. These were all taken in one weekend session….the potential is PRICELESS !
Butch Ramirez can be reached at 956-286-9605 or butch@butchramirezphotography.com for this and other wildlife and nature photo consultations. 22 Shot of Texas Magazine™
Any fresher and you’ll have to buy a boat ! Mondays - Peel & Eat Shrimp HALF OFF
103 North Austin Ave Georgetown Texas
512-688-5013
3010 Williams Dr #102, Georgetown, TX 78628 (512) 868-0003
“DOG DAZE” PHOTO CONTEST!
T
his month its about Dart & GiGi (see page 8) next month it could be about your best friend. We’re crazy about dogs and would love to hear from you about your canine buddy. Diane & Pete over at Tail Waggins Dog Bakery will be the official headquarters for this contest. Every month we will have a new breed featured in A Shot of Texas Magazine and it could be yours. Send in your pooch photo and stand a chance to win great prizes from local doggie shops and Grizzly Made in America Coolers. Winners will be posted on the 1st of each month on our face book page and at Tail Waggins Dog Bakery in Georgetown. You can enter in any category: Biggest Dog Hardest Working Dog Oldest Dog Coolest Dog Cutest Dog Best Dressed Dog BE SURE TO SPECIFY YOUR CATEGORY IN THE SUBJECT LINE. Email your entry to: mydog@ashotoftexas.com or upload your photo to our Facebook page.
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 23
Many people think of gardening as a chore. Others take up gardening as a hobby. Still there are others who could not even begin to give a proper definition of the term gardening.
Gardening while
Exercising
W
hether you love gardens and gardening or you hate even the idea of lifting up a spade or getting the lawnmower out of the shed, gardening offers many benefits to those who are willing to at least try! 24 Shot of Texas Magazine™
Gardening is active living. It is a very popular physical activity throughout the world and offers the opportunity for lifelong participation, and can be a positive contributor to the natural environment. The Old-Fashioned Way Is Best! To reap the maximum
health benefits from your gardening use as little machinery as possible. Use manual clippers, trimmers and lawnmowers if possible. Try to stick to a regular garden exercise routine. Rather than saving up your outdoor work for one marathon weekend session, schedule at least 30-60
minutes of gardening two or three times per week if you can manage the time. If your away from home during the day working, early mornings (if you can get up) evenings and weekends are ideal gardening times. Work at a steady, constant speed, but be sure to change positions every 10 minutes or so to avoid overusing a particular muscle group. If you start by bending down to pull weeds, stand to prune the hedges next. Also alternate which side of the body you use. Pull with your right hand, then with your left. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical activity reduces your risk of premature death, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, adult-onset diabetes and others. Gardening and yard work contributes to healthy active living, and are part of all three types of physical activity endurance, flexibility and strength activities. Heavy yard work like raking and carrying leaves contributes to both endurance and strengthening activities, while all those stretches and
contortions in the garden can help increase and maintain your flexibility. Indeed, studies have shown that just looking at trees and plants reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and relieves tension in muscles. It works for me especially when I’m stuck in the office! Dont forget that gardening requires you to use your head and your
creativity and therefore keeps the mind active as well. The time spent planning the garden and researching different plants is a great brain workout. Gardening gives us a chance to be creative. You can let your personality shine through in your garden. Remember to have fun while gardening and try not to treat it as a chore. Relax and remember your garden doesnt have to be picture perfect all the time. Resolve to work more on the garden this year. Whether it’s a window box or a garden, you will be healthier for it. Plus you can grow vegetables for yourself or sell them at a local market to generate additional income.
Restaurant & Bistro Located on the beautiful Georgetown Square
Happy hour 3 -7pm M-F Mon. - Board Game Night Tue- Karaoke 6:30-9:30pm Wed. - Open Mic 7-9:30pm Thur-Live Music 7-9pm Fri. - Live Music 7-9PM & DJ until 12am Sat. - Live Music 7-9:30pm Friday Night is Pint Night Upstairs Private Party Room Available
512-863-7080 5 1 rootsbistro
A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 25
Evelyn Billington had a very large, quite imaginative and colorful dream as a very young, little girl. She followed that dream all the way from her home in the countryside of Germany, to her enjoyment of legendary ranch life in Texas.
GERMAN TEXAS COWGIRL! E velyn, originally from Zuzenhausen, Germany, was adopted from an orphanage at the age of three. At six years old, she told her adoptive parents she wanted to grow up to be a “Texas cowgirl”, like she saw in movies and on TV. She began to follow her dreams at 18, when she married a Texan soldier, and moved to Killeen. There she studied Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement, became a police officer for a while, and as a second job, studied as an apprentice in a taxidermy shop, run 26 Shot of Texas Magazine™
by fellow officers. She is now proprietor of her own taxidermy business, along with creating music and performing in central Texas. Evelyn is an amateur geologist, and paleontologist. No bones about it, she is quite experienced in a wide variety of interests! She has a softhearted gentleness, as she loves the wild turkeys, feral cat, and pet squirrel, who all appear at her door for their daily edible treats. Evelyn picked up a guitar and began to play, write, and sing 15 years ago. This successful “Texas cowgirl”, now performs solo in numerous venues around the square in Georgetown, as well as Liberty Hill, Lampasas, and Copperas Cove. Her genre includes country, rockabilly, bluegrass, jazz, and contemporary music. She performs in German and English, while tambourines on her boots jingle in rhythm. With a twinkle in her eyes, she energizes with high-spirited music, surprises her audience with a little unexpected yodeling, grabs their attention with a graveling sound or the injection of a cheerful verbal phrase, and even calms the same listeners with blues. There is a distinction within Evelyn’s musical talent. She performs a wide variety of genres, and has more than 250 songs, five hours of vocal entertainment, tucked within her memory. Her own original lyrics alternate with long time classics. Evelyn devotes herself to pleasing a diverse
audience with a terrific mixture of music. During a single performance, she varies her vocals to beyond that of a Texas cowgirl, creating echoes of a native German Fraulein, all the way to the renowned 1920’s sounds of the great French, pop vocalist, Edith Piaf. Evelyn includes jazz to blues, similar to 1950’s sounds of Billie Holiday, as well as the 1960’s folk music sounds of Joan Baez. She specializes in re-creating these memorable, haunting, renowned musical echoes of the past, while proudly intermingling debuts of her latest, ongoing, original songwriting. Evelyn’s high spirit, devotion, dedication, and hard work have landed her boots on many local stages. Catch one of Evelyn Billington’s performances soon and enjoy her talent and pride in the realization of a young little German girl’s dreams actually coming true! Check out Evelyn Billinton at evelynsvarietymusic@aol.com Life is a song! Sing it!
LOIS JENISON Publicist, Poet, Lyricist, “Promotress” of local Singers, Songwriters, and Musicians A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 27
GOLF TIPS CORRECT FITTING L
Let me start off with the most important of golf tips – correct fitting. You must have equipment that fits the game you are playing and fits you correctly. Would you buy a pair of shoes that didn’t fit you correctly? Of course not. So why are so many people using golf clubs that are not the correct clubs for them? 28 Shot of Texas Magazine™
et me share some of the things I see while giving my daily lessons: Juniors will often inherit their parent’s clubs. This results in the club being too long and too heavy. It will also result in the club having an incorrect grip size, shaft flex, and lie angle. All of these things will only make the game more difficult and frustrating Ladies often experience the same thing. They will try using their partner’s clubs thinking that they aren’t sure if they will like the game and don’t want to spend money on clubs if they aren’t going to continue to play. The frustration that they will have from playing with the wrong clubs will cause them to not like the game and become frustrated.
For ladies and juniors, their size of the clubs are made specifically for smaller players. The shafts are designed for lower swing speeds and made to create a higher trajectory. This will help to get the ball up in the air and carry further. Now that’s fun! Many of the men I teach will be hitting an off-the-shelf set of clubs, because they assumed they were standard. Although it’s true that standard size typically refers to someone who is 5’ 9” to 5’ 10”, keep in mind that when you are measured for the length of your clubs, it’s not your height that matters, but the distance of your hands to the floor. Height and swing style are factors that can affect the lie angle of the club. Your lie angle refers to the way the club head lies on the ground. Your goal is to have the sole of the club lay flat on the ground when hitting the ball. If it
isn’t correct, you will end up either hitting off the heel or the toe of the club; causing the ball to not go straight. We all have different size hands no matter what height we are. Some of us have arthritic hands that are not able to grip real tight and need more comfort. Make sure that your grip size is correct so that you are able to hold the club properly. Lastly, getting fit for the correct shaft flex will ensure that you get the proper balance between carry and roll, and will maximize your distance. If you are playing with a shaft that it is too soft, this will result in a trajectory that is high and right, as you will tend to get too much shaft deflection, and side-spin. It will be more difficult to control without slowing your swing speed down. If you are playing with a shaft that is too stiff, you may have a difficult time “loading” the shaft, and/or creating enough backspin to get the ball in the air, resulting in a lower trajectory, and ultimately, less distance. A proper fitting will include static and dynamic measurements for length, checking swing speed to determine flex, checking lie angle, and grip size and composition. These steps are absolutely necessary for players of all abilities, whether you are just beginning or have been playing for many years.
GOLF RANCH FIT ME WITH THIS COOL TUX, IMAGINE HOW WELL THEY CAN CUSTOM FIT YOUR NEW CLUBS
SUPERIOR CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING NG
0HHN V )DPLO\ &KHP P 'U\ P U\
Did you y know there are re 6 or more allergens g n ns andd ϵ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚ ƚLJƉĞƐ ŽĨ ƉĂƚŚŽŐĞŶƐ LJƉ Ɖ Ő ŶƐ present in the majority off homes homes? s??
zŽƵƌ ,ĞĂůƚŚLJ ,ŽŵĞ ^ƚĂƌƚƐ ,ĞƌĞ͊ • ĂƌƉĞƚ hƉŚŽůƐƚĞƌLJ Ɖ Ɖ ƌLJ • LJ • Area Rugs ggs • dŝůĞ͕ ^ƚŽŶĞ Θ 'ƌŽƵƚ ͕ Ƶƚ •• 'ƌĂŶŝƚĞ ŽƵŶƚĞƌƚŽƉƐ ƉƐ Ɖ Independently dently Owned by Operated by Tracy Traccy Meek Meeekk sinc since ce 2004. Proudly udlyy Se Serving rvin ng Williamson, W Burnet, Travis, Bell, Coryell, Coryeell, Lam LLampasas passaass, BĂƐ ĂƐƚƌŽƉ͕ ŽůŽƌĂĚŽ͕ Θ &ĂLJĞƩĞ ŽƵŶƟĞƐ ƐƚƌŽƉ͕ ŽůŽƌĂĚŽ͕ Θ &ĂLJĞƩĞ ͕ Θ &ĂLJĞƩĞĞ ŽƵ ĞƐ
(512) 868 688-6722 • DĞĞŬƐ&ĂŵŝůLJ ŚĞŵ ƌLJ͘ĐŽŵ ŵ A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 29
A Big taste of local Italy
2 great locations - Georgetown- Cedar Park
Delivery or Take Out
Scan for our coupons right on your smart phone
$5
PASTA GIFT CERTIFICATE
Reedeem
BOSS (TM) ACCOUNTING PAYROLL
TAX PREP AND PLANNING CFO SERVICES “Let Gary know you saw him in A Shot of Texas Magazine and you will automatically be entered to win a Grizzly Cooler”.
DRAWING HELD AT OUR MONTHLY NETWORKING MEETING RIGHT HERE IN GEORGETOWN
Months of JULY & AUGUST 2017 Minimum bill, before alcohol, taxes or tip must be $25. Not valid on any pizzas, specials, lunch specials, alcohol, tips, taxes or delivery. May not be combined with any other discounts of any nature. Expires AUG. 31, 2017. Must present coupon to receive discount at time of purchase. Dine in or Carry Out only. No cash value. 30 Shot of Texas Magazine™
5353 Williams Drive #200-Georgetown, Tx 512-930-3003
SUMMER COASTAL FISHING With the steady amount of rain we have had during the spring, I see June being just as successful as April and May were. A lot of folks don’t like seeing WKH ED\V ȾRRGHG RU HYHQ D VWHDG\ VWUHDP RI UDLQIDOO every couple weeks, but I am here to tell you it helps much more than it hurts. Bay waters stay cooler, JUDVV ȾRXULVKHV DQG WKH VDOLQLW\ OHYHOV VWD\V DW D PRUH constant number. Yes, too low a salinity will force ȴVK WR PRYH RQ EXW VR ZLOO D KLJK VDOLQLW\ 7KH JUDVV beds along the shorelines and back marsh need some freshwater to grow just like our yards.
32 Shot of Texas Magazine™
I
had big hopes this year in June, as it is supposed to be time to start fishing Cedar Bayou and the surf, but, after making the trip down there a couple weeks ago I’m not so sure this year. I hope I am dead wrong about this, but it was depressing to say the least. From where it was last year at this time to where it is now, is about 400 yards to the south up against a 4 foot tall St. Jose bank. When I was there it was only about 30 yards wide and knee deep, the cut to Vincent’s Slough was only about 10 yards wide, and just a trickle of water flowing through it. Sand from the Matagorda Island side has filled it in and pushed it south. When I saw it that day it re-
minded me of the last time it was open all those years ago, and unfortunately was in the same place before it silted in. If we do not get some big tides or storm surge I believe it will close again. Like I mentioned above, I hope I am dead wrong and would love to see it come back to what it was a year ago. I will still go fish the surf on calm June days when shorelines don’t produce, but the conditions will have to be close to perfect. Thankfully, we have miles upon miles of grassy shorelines and plenty of oyster shell in San Antonio Bay and Mesquite Bay. With water color turning around and most of our reef’s water turning green again, by June, I will be jumping out to wade certain reefs before the wind gets up for that day. If wading isn’t your cup of tea, June can also host many sunny and low wind days perfect for sight casting redfish in the marsh. We troll creeks and ponds that will be holding plenty of baitfish and redfish cruising the banks patiently searching for their next target. Sight casting fish is a very interactive way to fish. If your heart gets to racing when deer hunting or bird hunting, chasing these fish through the marsh is for you. It is exactly that, hunting, we are constant-
ly on the move looking for that next fish. What is surprising to many folks is the number of opportunities at trout in the 5-8 pound range. Each time you plan a trip regardless of which month it is. Have a game plan before you leave the dock. Don’t spot fish just because 3 months ago you caught a few there, find the bait or the bait and right water color. Remember to try to find some stained water, bait fish like to concentrate in off colored water because they are harder to find from predator fish. If the bait is staying down and not jumping try a topwater, and match your lure selection to the water color, darker the water, darker the bait. Work these areas over slowly and thoroughly and you should find a great bite. Whatever outdoor activity draws you in during the month of June, N&M Sportsman’s Adventures has something for every enthusiast. I have dedicated myself to running a full time guiding operation since 2007, and will do my best to meet the needs and standards of any customer. Much of this wouldn’t be possible without great companies and fine folks standing beside me. I am thankful I get to make my living sharing my saltwater/hunting experi-
ence with people. I would like to thank Kresta’s Boats and Motors in Edna, Texas, for always keeping me on the water. Majek boats for building a dependable and smooth ride. Waterloo Rods in Victoria, Texas, for an awesome product that allows me the best sensitivity in a rod. Fins Braid for making line I can depend on to QHYHU IDLO ZKHQ ¿JKWLQJ ¿VK and Hookset Marine Gear for great wading products. Their wading belts offer so much back support, I do not ache at the end of a long day. Thanks to Down South
Lures for providing my customers and I with durable soft plastics with a great action. Port O’Connor Rod and Gun team, they have a great selection of tackle, clothing, and waterfowl needs for all levels of outdoorsmen. Also, Buggs T. Fishing lures, baits WKDW UHGÂżVK FDQÂśW UHVLVW Thank y’all! Captain Nathan Beabout Cell; (210) 452-9680 N&M Sportsman’s Adventures nmsportsmansadventures.com “Likeâ€? us on Facebook A Shot of Texas Magazine™ 33
SHOOT GRACI! y name is Graci Weber, and I live in Mason, Texas. I began shooting and being around guns with my dad and grandfather when I was little. A couple of years ago, our local 4-H started the Mason County 4-H Shooting Sports, which I joined.
M
by Graci Weber We were blessed with three really great coaches who are not only teaching us shooting but also gun safety, which is the most important part of shooting and handling guns. I started with BB Rifle 4-position and air pistol, targets, and silhouettes. I then began competing in smallbore rifle and air rifle, both at targets and silhouettes, and this year I will begin
competing in .22 pistol. I also just received my first shotgun, and although at this time I don’t plan on competing in shotgun, I still enjoy shooting skeet and dove hunting. I recently attended a weekend camp hosted by the Texas Youth Hunting Program and received my hunter education certificate, just in time for deer season! One of the best things
(512) 547-4867 Address: 2316 N. Austin Ave Georgetown, TX 78626 34 Shot of Texas Magazine™
about being involved in the 4-H Shooting Sports and attending competition is the people I get to meet and watch. There are some really great young shooters and amazing coaches out there, and we all get to learn from one another. I was lucky enough to meet a girl from Coleman my first year who was such an inspiration and took the time to visit with us and watch me and my friend shoot and give us some pointers. I have learned so much in the last few years being involved in shooting, not only about guns but about competing, people and just life lessons. I still have so much to learn, but I’m looking forward to learning all I can. I’m hoping that being involved in shooting sports helps pave the way to some of my other goals. Most of my goals I keep private, but one is to be able to attend some youth hunts. I really want to go on an elk, axis and alligator hunt. I have a really supportive family who helps me in any way they can to achieve my goals in all areas of my life, and I also have great friends and amazing role models
that I look up to. I live in a community that is very supportive of the youth and all the different activities they participate in. But most important is my faith in Jesus Christ that gets me through everything I do.
A Shot of Texas Magazineâ„¢ 35
****ECRWSSEDDM**** Local Postal Customer