C.A.S.T. for Kids Brings Joy to Children with Special Needs on Lake LBJ
On September 20, 2025, the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation will bring smiles, laughter, and an unforgettable day of fishing and boating to Lake LBJ in Sunrise Beach Village, Texas. This annual event, open to children ages 6 to 18 with any type of disability, is completely free to participants, but its impact is priceless. For over three decades, C.A.S.T. for Kids has been enriching the lives of children with special needs by connecting them with caring volunteers, supportive families, and the great outdoors. The upcoming Lake LBJ event will welcome up to 40 children for a day filled with excitement, encouragement, and community support.
Each child attending the event will be paired with a volunteer boater and treated to a full morning on the water, fishing and exploring. Every participant receives a fishing pole, tackle box, event t-shirt, cap, award plaque, and lunch, all at no cost to their family. But the true gift is the joy and confidence they take home with them. The event concludes with a picnic-style lunch and a heartfelt awards ceremony celebrating each child, making them feel like the heroes they truly are. Parents or guardians accompany their child on the boat, and when space allows, other family members may also join in the adventure.
C.A.S.T., which stands for “Catch A Special Thrill,” is more than just a day of fishing. It’s a powerful experience that creates lasting memories and fosters community bonds. Events like this allow families to step
away from the stresses of daily life and enjoy a moment of pure joy alongside other families who understand their journey. Volunteers play a crucial role in making the day special, not only the boaters, but also those helping onshore with setup, hospitality, photography, and logistics. It’s a collective effort that leaves everyone involved deeply moved and inspired.
Founded 34 years ago, the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation has grown into a nationwide network of more than 100 annual events, all focused on the mission of making children with special needs feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Each event provides an inclusive and safe environment for kids to experience something many of us take for granted. The simple joy of being out on the water, casting a line, and maybe even catching a fish. What sets C.A.S.T. apart is the way they bring communities together. From local volunteers and families to sponsors and service organizations, every event is a collective expression of love, generosity, and inclusion.
To ensure the success of the Lake LBJ event, the Foundation is actively seeking local volunteers and sponsors. Whether you’re an experienced
boater, someone who loves working with kids, or a business owner looking to give back, there are many ways to get involved. Donations, both financial and in-kind, are also welcome and vital to keeping these events free for the families who attend. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and community support will make all the difference in creating an unforgettable experience for these deserving children. Those interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or learning more are encouraged to contact local event coordinator Jeff Schultze at lakelbj@ castforkids.org or (936) 443-4385. Space for participants is limited to the first 40 children who register, so families are urged to sign up as soon as possible at https://castforkids.jotform.com/ team/2025-event-forms/lake-lbj-participantreg.
C.A.S.T. for Kids is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. As the Lake LBJ event approaches, it’s a perfect opportunity for the community to rally together, show support for these incredible kids, and make a real difference. One smile, one cast, and one memory at a time.
Homemade Crunchwrap Supreme Homemade
Crunchwrap Supremes bring all the fun of a restaurant favorite right to your kitchen.
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pounds ground beef
1 ounce packet taco seasoning
4 flour tortillas 12-inch
4 medium tortillas
4 tostadas
1 cup sour cream
1 cup nacho cheese sauce
1 cup lettuce shredded
1 tomato diced
1 cup Mexican blend cheese
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped, optional
Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook the beef until it is browned, which takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the taco seasoning until the beef is evenly coated.
2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 pounds ground beef, 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
To assemble the Crunchwrap Supremes, start by laying one large tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon
a layer of the seasoned ground beef into the center of the tortilla. Warm the nacho cheese sauce according to the package instructions and spread it on one side of the tostada. Place the tostada cheese side down on top of the ground beef. Spread sour cream on the other side of the tostada.
4 tostadas, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup nacho cheese sauce, 4 flour tortillas
Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and cheese on top of the tostada layer. Place a medium tortilla over the toppings, gently pressing it down to hold everything together. Fold the edges of the large tortilla up and over the smaller tortilla, overlapping the folds to seal the Crunchwrap. Note: It may be loosely folded, but it will hold its shape in the pan.
1 cup lettuce, 1 tomato, 1 cup Mexican blend cheese, 4 medium tortillas
Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the Crunchwrap seam-side down and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, pressing gently with a spatula to help it hold its shape and crisp up. Flip the Crunchwrap and cook the other side for another 30 seconds to 1 minute or until golden and crispy. Repeat with the remaining Crunchwraps.
Serve immediately, garnished with optional chopped cilantro. Enjoy!
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
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How Passion and Care Created Georgetown’s Favorite Pet Spa
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming in Georgetown is more than just a pet salon and bakery— it’s a place built from love, experience, and a deep commitment to pet health. Owner Neeley Simmons’ journey into the pet care industry began with personal heartache and discovery. After losing her 6-year-old Maltese, she embarked on a mission to understand the role of pet nutrition, vaccines, and preventatives in overall pet health. This passion for learning and her experiences as a Woof Gang customer in Westlake Hills ultimately inspired her to open her location in Georgetown. It was there that a groomer discovered a small nodule on her dog Zeke’s neck, leading to a cancer diagnosis that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. That moment solidified her belief in the importance of professional grooming, not just for aesthetics but for a pet’s well-being.
Since opening its doors on May 26, 2023, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming has become a staple in the Georgetown community. The journey has been nothing short of an adventure, and for Neeley, it’s been an experience she
wouldn’t change for anything. She has built an exceptional team of groomers who bring nearly 60 years of combined experience and hold certifications such as AKC Safety in the Salon, cat and dog First Aid & CPR, Fear Free, Senior and Obese Dogs and specific breed certifications such as Doodles, Schnauzers. Beyond the expertise, the atmosphere of Woof Gang makes it truly special. Seeing dogs burst through the doors, running to greet her with excitement, is one of Neeley’s greatest joys. The loyal customer base formed over the months has quickly become family.
What sets Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming apart is the level of care, detail, and quality put into every service and product. The salon offers a unique grooming experience by incorporating aromatherapy and sound therapy, using scientifically proven music to calm pets. The products used in grooming are of the highest grade, including a proprietary shampoo line created in collaboration with Hydra, one of the top luxury pet grooming brands in the world. From full-service grooming for dogs and cats to specialty
spa treatments, Woof Gang provides an array of services designed to meet the needs of every pet. Whether the Hairy Beast de-shed treatment, an itch-away medicated bath followed by a mineral mud bath, or the Diamond Dog spa treatment that enhances and conditions the coat, each pet is pampered with the highest quality care. For those looking for a little extra flair, creative grooming options such as pet-safe hair dye and nail painting are also available.
Beyond grooming, Woof Gang Bakery offers a delightful selection of fresh, preservativefree treats. Their bakery is known for its freshly baked birthday cakes, iced cookies, cupcakes, and cannolis, all made with pet-safe ingredients. Among the best-selling items are the Woof Gang chicken chips, a single-ingredient, highprotein snack that pet parents love, as well as the Woof Gang bulk-baked cookies, which allow customers to mix and match flavors. Supporting local businesses is also a priority, and Woof Gang proudly carries USA and Texas-based brands such as A Pup Above, Fromm, Nulo, Primal, Orijen, and Stella & Chewy’s, ensuring pets get only the best nutrition and treats.
The experience that Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming aims to provide is one of trust, comfort, and care. Neeley and her team work tirelessly to ensure that every pet, nervous or energetic, feels safe and welcomed. The salon has earned a reputation for working with pets that may be aggressive or anxious, taking the necessary time to build trust and create a positive association with grooming. With a patient and loving approach, they give breaks as needed, offering plenty of cuddles and encouragement. Safety is also a top priority—pets are never allowed to come into contact with each other in passing, ensuring a stress-free environment for all.
As a dedicated member of the Georgetown community, Neeley and her team actively participate in local pet-friendly events. From hosting adoption events to organizing food drives for local nonprofits and attending pet fairs, they are always looking for ways to give back. They also offer a customer loyalty program, rewarding repeat purchases with free items, as well as discounts for military personnel, first responders, and senior pet parents on designated days.
For Neeley, the best part of running Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is the relationships she has built—with both pets and their owners. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a freshly groomed pet prance around, showing off their new look to their family. The joy, trust, and sense of community that were formed around the business make every challenge worthwhile. Whether it’s hearing about a customer’s vacation plans or simply swapping puppy stories, Neeley has come to cherish the deep connections that have been made.
One thing she wishes more pet owners understood is the crucial role that grooming plays in overall pet health. It’s not just about looking good—regular, professional grooming can help detect early signs of health issues, from skin conditions to dental problems. Groomers are often the first to notice changes that could indicate an underlying issue and early detection can make all the difference. Grooming should be part of a pet’s wellness routine, just like regular veterinary checkups.
Exciting new additions are always on the horizon at Woof Gang. Recently, the store expanded its
treat selection with over 40 new all-natural options, including crunchy chips, jerky, and functional chews designed for training, dental health, and overall wellness. The launch of the premium shampoo and conditioner line with Hydra has also elevated the grooming experience to new heights.
Winning the Best of Georgetown award in 2024 was a tremendous honor for Neeley and her team, affirming their commitment to excellence. It is a testament to their passion for pet care and the strong relationships they have built within the community. The continued support from Georgetown’s pet parents means everything, and Neeley remains dedicated to providing the very best for every furry friend who walks through the door.
For those looking to experience Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming firsthand, more information can be found at www.woofgangbakery.com/ georgetowntx. Follow on Facebook and Instagram @ woofganggeorgetown for the latest updates, events, and adorable pet transformations. As Neeley always says, pets know when they are loved—and at Woof Gang, they always are.
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