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FLORENCE: A Place to Gather for 18,000 Years Page 9

JANUARY 2020

Capacity Crowd Takes Center Stage at Schroeder Kickoff

Josh McConkey Energizing Grass Roots Josh McConkey is easily qualified to meet the goals and objectives of a Republican Precinct Chair.

What is a Precinct Chair?

Residents of Precinct 344 have one more vote on the ballot than most of Williamson County in the March primary. And, with 18 years of military training, challenger Colonel

Duties of a Precinct Chair include promoting and growing the GOP locally, working to elect Republican candidates, and getting out the vote in his or her precinct. The Chair should—as often as possible—identify, register, inform and turnout voters; make an effort to get to know other GOP members, and create opportuContinued on page 5

On January 7, Georgetown

attorney and community leader Josh Schroeder announced his candidacy for Mayor to a capacity crowd on the Square.

More than 300 attendees proved up County Judge Bill Gravell's comment: "I've seen people announce for County Judge, State Representative, Commissioner, School Board and City Council, and I've never seen a group this large assembled to support someone. I am standing behind Josh.

I believe he is the future of Georgetown; a man of honor, integrity, and character."

Former Georgetown Mayor, Tim Kennedy, introduced the candidate and noted that he is, "above all, a man of faith and a family man." Kennedy also listed the many non-profit and City organizations for which Josh has been a board member and, just as often, the Chair. "Josh will treat any citizen who comes to talk to him with respect and dignity. He may not agree with you, but he will treat you profes-

sionally. Being Mayor of Georgetown was one of the great honors of my life, and Josh has earned the opportunity to be the leader of this town."

Schroeder outlined his priorities; talking about his personal investment in and love for Georgetown. "The core of my job at Sneed Vine is service to this community. When I moved here, one of the things I heard over and over was that you don't come here and just live; you have to give back, and I am trying to live up to the standard that our predecessors set in service."

Schroeder says he will work to maintain the small-town community feel no matter how big the city gets.

"To make that happen, the issues we need to keep in the forefront are these: public safety. The safer you feel, the more small-town we will be. Second, everyone's answer to 'What do we need to fix?' is Williams Drive. Every second you sit in traffic on Williams Drive, is another second you don't feel like you live in a small town. Transportation will be addressed."

His third undertaking is to be as fiscally conservative as possible to afford the kind of changes and services that will maintain those things equally.

He concluded, "Above all else, we will be as transparent as possible. We are a town of 70,000 and we are not able to interact in the same way we did when we were a town of 12,000— when we all knew each other. The city and its officials will have to bend over backward. We will be transparent about everything in this community, so all citizens feel they are getting honest information and each is integral to this town."

Schroeder added he will focus on face-to-face input and communication. "If you want to talk to me, it may not be right away, but I will make the time. I will solicit and seek citizen input as often as is reasonable. You will have a voice in this community."

The Mayoral election is May 2 in Georgetown.

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AdvocateNewsTX.com  Curbside pick-up: Texas Disposal Systems customers in the city limits of Georgetown can put Christmas trees on the curb for collection on your regular yard trimmings pickup day.

Trees seven feet in length or less can be placed at the curb uncut. Longer trees should be cut into sections.

Artificial trees are not accepted.

Collection day look-up

Not only does she care about mental health on the bench, Justice of the Peace Evelyn McLean has taken it upon herself to create processes and programs that support personal dignity and accountability. She paid for this billboard, personally, to remind those who drive past it on I-35 that self-care is a great part of personal wellness.

See below for info on the JP3 Mental Health Expo.

JP 3 Hosts Mental Health Expo On January 16, 2020, Williamson County Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3 will be hosting its first Mental Health Expo. The event will take place from 6-8 p.m. at the Williamson County Georgetown Annex, 100 Wilco Way, Suite 226.

Residents of all ages and community and business leaders who have a particular stake in mental health are encouraged to join the event for this “one stop shop” for resources and programs pertaining to mental health and wellness.

Before becoming Justice of the Peace, Judge Evelyn McLean was in law enforcement for 26 years.

During her law enforcement career, Judge McLean says, she witnessed an uptrend in suicides and attempted suicides through the years, along with a host of other mental health issues affecting our residents. Judge McLean has a personal interest in mental health as she also sees people in court who are suffering mentally and emotionally.

In addition, she has worked numerous suicide deaths as Justice of the Peace.

Judge McLean said, “The goals of this Mental Health Expo are aimed at enhancing helping citizens live healthy lives, decrease suicide rates, and eliminate the negative stigma associated with mental illness. Our hope is that through collaborative efforts and events

like this, we can work toward removing barriers to recovery and strive to learn the skills necessary to help each other.”

For more information, or to reserve a free table at the Mental Health Expo, please contact us at 512-943-1508

by January 6.

Recycling Christmas Trees and Boxes City of Georgetown residents are encouraged to recycle Christmas trees, boxes, and wrapping paper to reduce material going to the landfill. If you recycle your tree, please remove the tree stand and any garland, ornaments, or lights.

Artificial trees cannot be recycled.

For City of Georgetown residents, your yard trimmings collection day is on your first recycling day of the month. Georgetown solid waste and recycling customers can check their collection days, sign up for text or email reminders, and find out how to sort your solid waste and recycling on Texas Disposal Systems' Waste Wizard at texasdisposal.com/waste-wizard.

Boxes and wrapping paper

Cardboard boxes and wrapping paper are recyclable. If they won’t fit in your recycling cart, you can put wrapping paper and boxes in a larger box and set it next to your recycling cart.

Ribbons and bows are not recyclable.

Cellophane wrap and plastic bags are recyclable if they are placed in a yellow bag-the-bag, tied, and placed inside the recycling cart. Bag-the-bag recycling bags are available for pick up at the Georgetown Municipal Complex, 300-1 Industrial Ave., Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. Eighth St., Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N. Austin Ave., and the Sun City Social Center monitors desk, 2 Texas Drive, and the Transfer Station, 250 W.L. Walden Road. Note that extra plastic bags next to your trash cart are not

permitted without a bag tag.

Go to recycle.georgetown. org for a complete list of recyclables.

Christmas tree drop-off

Christmas trees will be accepted at the City of Georgetown Collection Station, 250 W.L. Walden Drive, from Dec. 26-Jan. 31 at no charge. Normal fees apply to other items. Recycled Christmas trees are turned into mulch, which is available year-round, freeof-charge to City residents.

Collection Station

Normal hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Collection Station is closed Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1.

For details, contact Texas Disposal Systems at (512) 930-1715.

The City of Georgetown also offers holiday string light recycling through Jan. 31 at three drop-off locations throughout Georgetown. For more information, visit Georgetown.org.

County Fair Coming to Williamson Co. The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved an agreement with the Williamson County Fair Association relating to funding the county’s first fair and rodeo in 2020.

According to the agreement, the purpose of the county fair is to encourage and promote agricultural education and its history in the county. The agreement states that Williamson County will fund $100,000 to be used as seed money for the Williamson County Fair Association. The association will reimburse the county within four years, or the Commissioners Court

JANUARY 2020

has the ability to forgive all or a portion of that amount.

The Williamson County Expo Center in Taylor will be rented for the fair and rodeo. The agreement also allows for county staff and facilities to be used for planning the event.

“Williamson County has never had a true county fair,” said Scott Heselmeyer, president of the Williamson County Fair Association. “We look forward to bringing Williamson County a true county fair where people can bring their families, experience agriculture hands-on, go to the carnival, see the rodeo, see pecan pies get judged, and all the great things that you see associated with a county fair.”

The Williamson County Fair Association is comprised of an executive committee of eight members. In addition to County Treasurer Scott Heselmeyer, the executive committee has former County Judge Dan Gattis, former Taylor Mayor Jesse Ancira, Patti Colbert, Nathan Winstead, Kelley Hammeren, Tanya Clawson, and Julie Sharifian.

The group is working on plans for the fair, rodeo and live entertainment to be held in October. They plan a roll-out announcement in late January.

“Williamson County’s background is in agriculture, and we should have a county fair to celebrate that heritage and promote education,” said County Judge Bill Gravell. “Our youth are our greatest asset. This event will not only provide meaningful educational opportunities and experiences for them, but also will provide scholarships for youth in Williamson County.”

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The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of The Advocate, administration, staff or contributing writers. The views expressed in all letters to the editor and signed opinion articles are those of their authors.

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JANUARY 2020

THE RICH LOWRY COLUMN

Homeless Encampments and the Constitution

by Rich Lowry

T

he Supreme Court just ensured that the nation's homelessness crisis will continue.

The court declined to take up an appeal of a ruling by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, covering the western United States, that homeless encampments are a de facto constitutional right.

In the case, stemming from a Boise, Idaho, ordinance, the 9th Circuit maintained that enforcing a prohibition against camping in public places is a violation of the Eighth Amendment's prohibition

on cruel and unusual punishment.

A quick reminder. The Eighth Amendment says, "Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishment inflicted." It was adopted out of fear that Congress might, as Abraham Holmes put it, mimic the sorry experience of "that diabolical institution, the Inquisition," or in the words of Patrick Henry, "introduce the practice of France, Spain, and Germany of torturing, to extort a confession of the crime."

It's a long way down from these fears to the city of Boise trying to keep the homeless from creating public nuisances and dangers.

What cruel and unusual punishments were the plaintiffs found guilty of violating Boise's camping and disorderly conduct ordinances subjected to? Tarring and feathering? The rack? No, they were all sentenced to time served, with the exception of one of them who was twice sentenced to one additional day in jail. One of the plaintiffs who pled guilty paid a $25 fine.

Nonetheless, the 9th Circuit somehow invented constitutional

warrant to declare Boise guilty of a grievous violation of the Bill of Rights. According to the 9th Circuit, such encampment laws now can't be enforced so long as there are more homeless people than practically available shelter beds in any jurisdiction.

The ruling was a body blow to localities in the West where homelessness has been exploding.

It's not as though these places are heartless. Cities have been devoting significant resources to shelter and trying other tacks, including regional cooperation to homeless outreach teams.

Since the basis of the 9th Circuit's decision is that sleeping is a basic human need, it puts at risk other commonsense statutes. It is also a basic human need to defecate and urinate. A drug addict feels a need to use drugs. When will the 9th Circuit, or some other adventurous court, find Eighth Amendment protection for these?

There is an obvious public interest in tearing down encampments and keeping them from springing up. They are dens of public health risks, drug abuse and crime that significantly degrade the quality of life.

When Orange County, Calif., cleared out a big encampment last year, it found more than 13,000 needles, 5,000 pounds of waste— including human waste—and 400 tons of debris.

Workers at City Hall in Los Angeles have been exposed to trash and bodily fluids from nearby encampments, which also were responsible for a rodent infestation at City Hall.

San Francisco is notorious for needles and human feces on its streets.

A society that lacks the ability to prevent such blatant and revolting affronts to public order—degrading and dangerous even to their supposed beneficiaries—as lost something important.

A society that tells itself that it is literally impermissible to use the law to discourage them has lost its mind.

Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review. © 2019 by King Features Synd., Inc.

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Dr. Josh McConkey and family at a recent football outing. As a military family, they have had the opportunity to cheer for many teams across the nation. nities for voters to become more involved with the party. He or she is also expected to attend county meetings and conventions.

Dr. McConkey is running for this position because, he says, "It's easy to expect someone else to do it, but 2020 is really important. We need all hands on deck and leave no stone unturned. I want to support

Williamson County with strong Republican leadership, and we have to work for it now."

Dr. McConkey moved to Georgetown in 2018 to establish an emergency medical practice, which has been and is successful and growing. He is an Associate Member of the Georgetown Area Republican

Women and is a consultant for Congressman John Carter on healthcare issues and concerns.

"My goal is to lead by example. I have a vision of what Williamson County was and still is, and it needs to stay that way for the future. I want to be a Precinct Chair because I believe grass roots is where we combat the complacency we were somewhat awakened from in 2018. I also love the safety and conservative values in our area, and these things will not stay if we take them for granted and don't get involved."

His concerns about complacency are two-fold. As a combat veteran, he has a physical understanding of what complacency can do on a battlefield. In government, he says, "I have a lot of energy and this is where I want to focus it. If we lose those elements of safety and conservative values now, it will be hard to get them back; I want my children to enjoy what I moved to Georgetown for."

Dr. McConkey is already making plans to get out the vote by blockwalking and getting to know his neighbors from Wolf Ranch to Cimarron Hills. He will focus on new residents and new housing developments. "The biggest thing in any campaign is teamwork, and the military prepared me

for that. Also, be sure that my biggest asset is having the energy to get out and do the work. I haven't seen evidence of the level of effort I believe we need to get out the vote in 2020. I will be out shaking hands, walking with my kids, and teaching them about civic responsibility."

Dr. McConkey adds that living in one of the safest counties in America is part of why we are one of the fastest growing. "If you believe in something, it's worth putting in the time. We welcome all the new diversity, but I won't lose sight of what we stand for either."

In addition to his military service, Dr. McConkey has a healthcare background, was an adjunct professor at Duke University, and is dedicated to vetting the people who will be running for office in 2020 and beyond. "This is the lowest 'boots on the ground' and I plan to do the research, talk to candidates, and legitimately tell my constituents which candidates have the integrity to lead us and follow through on their promises. It is the mission of a precinct chair to help voters recognize candidates who are everything they claim to be."

Dr. McConkey will be on the ballot for voters in Precinct 344 in the March 3, 2020 Republican primary.

GOOD HEALTH FOR SENIORS DEAR DR. ROACH: I am 88 and have had osteoarthritis in my hands and knees since I was in my 50s. I began taking Tylenol and Advil for pain. But on a recommendation from a health food store clerk, I started taking turmeric. Since that first dose, I have never had to take any pain medication again. I also have not had a knee replacement. My specialist is very pleased with my condition, and encourages my use of turmeric. I plan to up the dose from 150 mg daily because of research that shows its benefits in avoiding Alzheimer's disease. ~ D.D.L. ANSWER: Turmeric has been shown to be helpful in some people with osteoarthritis, and is unlikely to have serious side effects; however, stomach upset is possible, and turmeric should be used with caution in people on warfarin or other anticoagulants.

However, there is no good evidence showing that turmeric prevents or treats dementia.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I have been hearing a lot about making yogurt at home. Is homemade yogurt a recipe for food poisoning? ~ H.C. ANSWER: Homemade yogurt is easy to make, can be more healthy than storebought as it has very little sugar, and can be made very safely with minimal precautions.

The key is to make sure the milk is fresh and sterile, then to carefully add in healthy bacteria. All you need to do is boil fresh milk to a bare simmer (to kill any unhealthy bacteria); cool it down to 100-110

F (37-42 C), which is an optimal temperature for growth of the healthy bacteria that help prevent the growth of unhealthy bacteria or yeast; stir in a few tablespoons of plain yogurt with active healthy bacterial cultures; and keep it in a warm place for six to 12 hours or so.

You can use the yogurt you just made as the starter for the next batch. Add in some pureed fresh fruit, and you have a healthier, tastier and cheaper yogurt than you can buy at the store.

DEAR DR. ROACH: The 71-year-old woman from a recent column who finds sticking her finger to test her blood glucose too painful to be willing to do it likely was never told that while sticking her finger at the tip IS painful, sticking at the side of the end of the finger is barely painful, if at all.

I find myself surprised that those who stick fingers for blood at the hospital don't seem to know this either. Shame on them. ~ R.S. ANSWER: There are more nerve endings at the tip of the finger, so that is more painful for most. There often is better blood flow on the sides as well. Thank you for writing with this reminder.

DEAR DR. ROACH: Several years ago, I attended a presentation about insomnia. A registered nurse discussed how, in her career as a nursing home nurse, she had many residents with insomnia. She stated that she had amazing success with these residents.

The snack they gave them was crackers and cheese or peanut butter crackers. I was skeptical at first, then one night at 2 a.m.,

on my fourth night of insomnia, I tried eating 2 teaspoons of peanut butter. Bingo!

I slept. Whenever my insomnia occurs, I eat 2 teaspoons of peanut butter, and in less than 15 minutes I'm sleeping. I use a nothing-fancy store brand of peanut butter.

Please pass this information on to other readers with an explanation. ~ B.J.T. ANSWER: I appreciate your writing to give another option for this common problem. One reason that some people think this may work is that the protein content in peanut butter is a source of tryptophan, which increases serotonin levels to help one relax. I also have read that this effect

is so small as to be clinically meaningless, and that any sleep effect is due to placebo. I suspect the truth is a combination.

Two tablespoons of peanut butter is almost 200 calories, so this is not a good choice for someone struggling with too much weight. I'm also not one for "fancy," but be sure to choose a peanut butter with no trans fats and no added sugars.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu. © 2020 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

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Keep Calm and Get Your Flu Shot

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Dr. Jim Donovan, Chief

Medical Officer at St. David's Georgetown Hospital, has a lot of helpful information about the 2019-2020 flu season, including a bit about this year's strain being slightly different than what was expected.

To begin with, he says the season is off to its earliest start in more than 15 years. Flu cases usually begin in late September, peak between December and February, and are typically gone by March.

"It is difficult to predict entirely the early onset might mean," Dr. Donovan says, "Unfortunately, it does indicate more people will be sick during holidays but there is no way to predict whether it will be worse or prolonged."

Flu Facts

Dr. Donovan says Flu comes in two big flavors; A and B. "Most often we see the A variety, but this year we are seeing more of the B types. We still have a few months to go so this may change." He cautions that most people can’t tell the difference because neither is worse than the other, but it does make a difference in the kinds and quantities of vaccines that are made available.

The vaccine for influenza is made up of several inactivated or attenuated viruses. Each year, researchers try to predict the kind of flu they will see. What makes this task difficult is that in order to develop

the vaccine, manufacture it, and get it to the clinics on time, they pretty much have to start on the 2021 version as soon as the 2020 season is over. "To do this we look at past years' data to try to predict the kind of flu we will see. The yearly effectiveness of the vaccine has a lot to do with how accurately we can make that prediction."

The Centers for Disease Control do have one advantage; by the time they begin working on their next formula, scientists can look to other countries, like Australia, who are heading into "next" Winter while we are heading into Spring.

"Knowing what winter has already brought in other places, in combination with data from previous years, helps us predict what our flu will look like. Our CDC finalizes its predictions in March or April so they can get busy producing enough to distribute by September.

We always have a general idea about flu strains but the frequent mutations keep us from getting it 100 percent."

Do I have Flu?

Dr. Donavan says there are many, many pieces in symptomology and none are specific for a particular strain. As well, once infected, you are contagious and shedding the virus a day or two before you feel sick. "Real flu is a serious disease for anyone. High fever, body aches, and cough are primary but there are many things your body might do to react. Nausea or diarrhea are possible and there are a significant number of deaths every year from the complications that accompany flu. This is why the shot is so important."

He adds while there are anti-flu medications, there is no cure. "Over-the-counter treatments may shorten the course and help with symptoms, but they are not like antibiotics for bacterial disease. Flu is viral so antibiotics will not help you."

When to Call the Doctor

Flu is particularly dangerous for children under 4, people over 65, and those who have other chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes; smokers, or anyone undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.

Dr. Donavan says, "If you are in one of those special categories, I want to see you early. Flu is generally a 7- to 10-day disease. If you are controlling your fever and your symptoms aren't progressing, stay home and don't spread it around.

If your symptoms do not subside with treatment, it's better to see the doctor to avoid those more dangerous complications."

He encourages readers to get the shot and says it is never too late. "We don't know how long the season will last and it takes a few weeks for your body to create the appropriate antibodies."

For those concerned about the shots, "It is much safer to have the shot than to get the flu. For those with egg allertides, the current formulations are not made in egg cultures so there are very few people for whom the flu shot is contraindicated. Ask your doctor, because there are actually choices that can be made and there are specific vaccines for people over 65."

Those vaccines are made with a high dose to make up for the diminished immune response as we get older.

In every case, he recommends universal precautions; washing your hands, sneezing into your arm, and avoiding sick people. "We will be exposed to each other more in the wintertime.

And yes, it is okay to go to the E.R. with the flu. We recognize the seriousness of the flu. If you have things under control at home we don’t encourage that, but if you’re having complications, we will be happy to see you."

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agricultural and digital commerce industry, which are crucial to Texas’ economy.

large as the diameter of the Earth, astronomers were able to put together a silhouette image of the center of galaxy M87.

Seems like it should have been hard to miss since it is 6.5 billion times the size of our sun. But what's also cool about this is the telescope and all the educational prospects for students of trigonometry, physics, algorithms, and astronomy.

Now for some good (or at least amusing) news...

Some very respectable pollsters say about 70 percent of us are worn out by the news.

Nearly 40 percent avoid it almost completely. I'm one of those people. Ironic, since I work in media.

But political ugliness and everything associated with it is a thundering drumbeat of gloom that makes it hard to maintain awareness of (or interest in) people who are just trying to survive, in many cases, literally.

Still, I do like being in this paper; they make every effort to avoid talking about dirt and scandal, so at least I don't need to write about hateful things too.

So, here is where I can get my head out of the sand and remember all the ordinary citizens, scientists, astronomers, and leaders who produced good news in 2019.

• First, for all you climate worriers, NASA told us the Earth is 5 percent more green than it was 20 years ago. Satellites show more than 2 million square miles—the equivalent of another Amazon rain forest—with new leaf cover.

• Also in the natural world, the number of mountain gorillas increased in east Africa. India’s wild tiger population grew 30 per cent, to number almost 3,000, and humpback whales in southwest Atlantic now number some 25,000. Combine that with the planned reverse engineering of quaggas, dodos, and perhaps saber-toothed tigers in the next decade, we're on a roll.

• Scientists turned human stem cells into insulin-producing cells, which could mean a cure for type 1 diabetes. Researchers in San Francisco have already created some of these cells in a petri dish, which is a step closer to human implantation. Considering the inflated cost of insulin in the U.S., this is great news. If that doesn't work for you, we also now have a bionic pancreas that automatically regulates insulin. Steve Austin would be proud!

• In 2019, we got our first good look at a black hole. Using a virtual telescope made up of eight sites, and a "view" as

• Purely for entertainment value, I loved reading about all the people who stormed Area 51 with the idea that they were going to see aliens because the military installation somehow belonged to them because they pay taxes. Turns out it was a joke, which is good because "lethal force" is not a military Facebook meme.

It ended up being a big party in the desert that kept a lot of "eccentric" people out of trouble for a few days. Maybe I will make plans for the 2020 Alien-Stock.

• Forget global warming (again). Physicist Dominik Czernia successfully created a digital tool that mathematically calculates the outcome of a real-life vampire apocalypse. Apparently the calculator really works and humans make great prey. If you're super bored, you can input what types of humans and vampires you want to pit against each other at OmniCalculator.com/other/humans-vs-vampires.

• The future arrived in July. French inventor Franky Zapata succeeded in crossing the English Channel on a jet-powered hoverboard he designed, zooming over the Strait of Dover in just over 20 minutes.

• Even more future, as in real StarTrek, scientists successfully teleported just a few weeks ago. They transmitted data, via individual photons, at the speed of light of course. Since that is about as fast as anything can go, it's pretty much teleporting. Bonus; turns out teleporting is pretty much hackproof too.

• Did you know there's a website that catalogs weird stories that all start with "Florida man...". Honestly, I'm not that surprised.

• And the best good news, President Trump established the U.S. Space Force as an official sixth branch of our armed forces.

It's basically an offshoot of and organized under the Air Force, but at least he's thinking ahead. That one is enormously impactful and I'm just sad the first mainstream news outlet to even mention it was at the bottom of page 2 of my search.

Last month, Representative John Carter (TX-31) released the following statements.

After voting in favor of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): “After more than a year of delay by Speaker Pelosi, the House of Representatives has finally passed the USMCA with overwhelming support. While this agreement will significantly benefit the United States, Texas is positioned to be one of the USMCA’s biggest winners thanks to its annual export of $140 billion in goods to Mexico and Canada. With nearly 60 percent of all jobs in my district reliant on trade with our North American partners, the USMCA’s passage is a clear victory for Texas’ 31st District.

“Nationally, trade with Mexico and Canada supports 12 million American jobs, so having a free and fair trade agreement is crucial to the health of the U.S. economy.

Along with the added $68 billion in new economic activity, the USMCA will be responsible for the creation of 176,000 U.S. jobs.

“The USMCA will serve as the model for all future U.S. trade agreements, and is an example of how Congress should work with the Administration to create prosperity for Americans.”

The USMCA is set to modernize the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to better serve the interests of American workers and our economy. The agreement will deliver key economic wins in the auto manufacturing,

After voting against both of the Democrats’ articles of impeachment: “It is a fundamental ideal of our republic that every American receives justice under the law.

As Members of Congress, we are required to uphold that ideal and as a former judge, I was tasked with the same responsibility.

I find that this entire impeachment process has lacked impartiality, respect for the Constitution and justice. When I was on the bench, I instructed every jury the same way. I told them, “what someone heard from another source other than what they directly observed is not evidence.” The evidence presented by the House Majority in this case was hearsay. In fact, the most substantial direct evidence is the transcript of the President’s telephone call, which did not prove an impeachable offense.

“While the Democrats try to rewrite their history, the truth is that the impeachment of President Trump began the day he was inaugurated. In fact, 17 of the 24 Democratic members on the House Judiciary Committee voted to impeach President Trump well before the phone call with the Ukraine President even occurred. The last month of impeachment hearings have been political theatre designed to present hearsay and rumors as facts. Make no mistake, today’s vote isn’t about justice, or upholding the rule of law, this is politics.

“The Constitution is clear — treason, bribery, or high crimes and misdemeanors are impeachable offenses. The evidence presented does not meet those standards required by the supreme law of the land.

Impeachment is one of the most serious acts that Congress will undertake, it should not be taken lightly or used to strong-arm those you disagree with politically. It’s irresponsible that the Democrats have weaponized the impeachment process to appease their base, and their behavior over the last three years is the very behavior the Founding Fathers warned us about. Fortunately, I have no doubt that the American people recognize Democrats’ antics, and they will not easily forget. Today is truly a sad day for justice. ”

Anyway, no one walking on Mars or curing cancer yet, but on the plus side, I haven't thought about impeachment, Pelosi, gun grabbers, or Ukraine for two hours. So far, 2020 is going great.

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FLORENCE

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A Place to Gather (for the past 18,000 years)

< Dr. Wernecke shows off the "chopsticks" used by his staff and volunteers, to gently uncover new artifacts. > A cross-section of the site. Volunteers and scientists dig by centimeters, for many years, until they reach bedrock.

You will find no place to visit in Central

Texas as unique as the Gault Site in Florence.

Technically, there is no place in the entire western hemisphere of the planet as unique as the Gault Site.

Some really smart scientists say humans have gathered at the Gault site for about 18,000 years. It contains the earliest evidence of human settlement—the oldest art and the oldest “house”—on the continent.

First excavated in 1929, on farmland owned by Henry Gault, this dig is 30 minutes from Georgetown. Around the world, Gault is a rockstar of research and reconstruction. It has long contributed to our understanding of human evolution; how early modern man adapted and reacted to the bounty of Central Texas.

Executive Director Dr. Clark Wernecke says, “Part of our mission is to educate people about what archaeology is, and why it really matters. It is the shared path we all

have and is an important building block for where we’re going in 100 or 1,000 years.”

Help for Gault

Last month, the Gault Archaeological Site had a special visit from some of the people who are helping to bring visibility and awareness of this local treasure.

Commissioner Valerie Covey, TX Representative Terry Wilson, and Congressman John Carter went on the tour with the AP World History students from Florence High School, and spoke to them about what each can, and plans to do, to help with research and more.

Dr. Wernecke explained that while archaeologists use a great deal of scientific method and technology, much of their work is about interpretation of their findings and piecing together things from the past.

As such, they struggle to procure funding and grants from STEM and other scientific sources. The Congressman said, “There is a lot of money nationwide, but it is very

competitive. But if the Gault school wants some, we will help them. This is a real jewel and everyone can help just by talking about it. This is a dream area and we need to keep it going.”

A Gathering in Florence

Ben Daniel, Chair of the Florence EDC was also on the tour. He added, “We are not creating this phenomenon, we are just recognizing something unique and wonderful about Florence. Even the science shows that this was an aggregation site; people have been coming here to hunt, make tools, and maybe even celebrate for 18,000 years.

When people come here to visit, they will feel it too.”

Daniel is working to increase local awareness and visibility for the Gault site, and everything he finds special about Florence. He is eager to see new visitors and businesses in Florence to grow that sense of gathering that seems to have permeated the area since the Stone Age.

The Peopling of the Americas

YO U P R O B A B LY L I V E O N L A N D J U S T L I K E T H I S . I F YO U D U G D O W N FA R E N O U G H , YO U M I G H T F I N D S O M E T H I N G ( B U T D O N ’ T G O D I G G I N G U P YO U R PA R E N T S’ G R A S S ) ~ CO N G R E S S M A N C A R T E R

While some accounts differ as to who migrated where and when around the world, archaeologists working at the Gault site have been able to date many of their artifacts with all manner of scientific methods.

You may have heard of carbon-14 dating, but, among other things, the tour at the Gault site will introduce you to a laser technique that can determine when a single grain of sand, from deep underground, was last exposed to sunlight.

Dr. Michael Collins purchased the land in 2006 and immediately donated it to the

Archaeological Conservatory. He says the site is a “stratigraphic package” of time and space that is distinctive.

Clovis was previously believed to be the earliest people in the Americas. Gault has artifacts contemporary with the Clovis, above a layer completely void of artifacts, then another deeper layer some call the “Florence culture”.

The fascination and entertainment is best left to Dr. Wernecke, who is as committed to this treasure trove of history as he is excited to share it with people of all ages who wish to know more about it.

The tour is worth the drive from Georgetown. Imagine a child’s face when history comes off the page as tangible objects he or she can identify, and wonder about the person who left it there millennia ago. Dr Wernecke says, “It gives us a perspective of the time-depth of humans, not just on the Earth, but right here in our neighborhood.”

THE GAULT SITE IS PRIVATE PROPERTY, SO TOURS MUST BE SCHEDULED. CONTACT THE WILLIAMSON MUSEUM FOR REGULAR TOURS. FOR A CLASS OR PRIVATE GROUP OF TEN OR MORE, CONTACT DR. WERNECKE CWERNECKE@GAULTSCHOOL.ORG. PRIVATE TOURS ARE FIRST-COMEFIRST-SERVED.

9

CITY INSIDER

JANUARY 2020

MAYOR'S UPDATE • BY DALE ROSS

Top 10 Georgetown Stories of 2019

As is customary with this

and many other news publications, at the start of a new year, we take a look back at the good, the bad, and the ugly of the previous year's news. But, this is Georgetown, so it's always mostly good news. Enjoy...

10. GROWTH CONTINUES:

Last year, growth colored much of the City’s work.

Construction began on more than 1,300 new homes in Georgetown, and our city was ranked by the U.S. Census Bureau as the seventh-fastest growing municipality with more than 50,000 residents in the U.S.

9. COMMUNITY EVENTS:

Georgetown celebrated the 20th Red Poppy Festi-

val with great weather, entertainment, and record crowds. The event added more than $2.5 million to the local economy. The first Blazin’ Beer Crawl was a popular new event on the Square in August.

The City again sponsored the lights around the Square, helping Georgetown remain a top holiday light destination in the state.

8. COST OF SERVICE:

While customers faced higher electric bills this year, the overall cost of monthly service including utilities and property taxes for a home valued at $285,000 is the fourth-lowest when compared to 10 other large cities in the Austin-metro area. Georgetown’s property tax rate is the lowest among those cities.

7. ELECTRIC UTILITY CHALLENGES:

Electric customers faced higher bills as the City worked to address increased purchased power costs.

Steps to address the wholesale power cost issue included hiring a new general manager and hiring Shell Energy North America to assist with energy forecasting and energy market trading. The City ended the year with a higher reserve in the electric fund than in 2018. This year the City electric utility employees achieved diamond-level status for reliability as a provider.

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6. WATER UTILITY PROJECTS: The water utility expanded capacity with the Sun City water tower and new waterlines along DB Wood Road and Ronald Reagan Boulevard. The utility began work on a new Braun water tower on West Highway 29, a larger water intake structure and expanded capacity at the water treatment plant on Lake Georgetown, and design for a second water treatment plant at Lake Georgetown.

5. TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS:

Road and mobility projects included the opening of Rivery Boulevard extension and continued work on the Williamson County segment of Southwest Bypass, which is expected to open next year. Resurfacing of runways at the Georgetown

Municipal Airport, work on the Seventh Street sidewalk project, and the completion of the Bicycle Master Plan were other significant mobility projects in 2019.

4. CITY FACILITIES AND PARKS: The new City Hall and Council and Courts building opened in January and work started on two new fire stations. The second phase of the San Gabriel Park renovations was completed this summer, and a proposed downtown parking garage was a hot topic of conversation.

3. DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES:

A number of new shops and restaurants opened downtown this year, including 309 Coffee, Lamppost Coffee, Barrels and Amps, Lark and Owl Booksellers, Barron Creek Vineyards, and the Daytripper World Headquarters.

2. NEW RETAIL:

The opening of Academy Sports and Outdoors as well as the first businesses at Wolf Crossing, including Goodwill and Olive Garden, were among the big retail openings this year.

The City also approved agreements with Costco, which plans to open a store at Lakeway and I-35.

1. SAFE CITY:

The Georgetown Police Department achieved state accreditation by the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Recognized Law Enforcement Agency, a recognition of 170 best practices by the department. In addition, Georgetown ranked No. 3 for safest cities in Texas

by SafeHome.org, and, as a safe city for animals, the City Animal Shelter achieved no-kill status for the fourth year in a row.

JANUARY 2020

CITY INSIDER

NEWS FOR PAWS & CLAWS AND SNOUTS & HOOVES

The Hardest, Kindest Day

by Dr. Nathan Carlton, DVM

After a long, dusty day riding in the back

of a Humvee wearing my Kevlar helmet and load bearing vest, I was ready for a hot shower. It was mid-June; I was in veterinary school and the Army Reserve, and I was on a training exercise with an infantry unit.

I was beyond excited to be a part of it at first, but after starting the day at 0200, and spending more than 12 hours in the same sitting position next to a turret-mounted 0.50 caliber, my legs were cramping, I was exhausted, and I couldn’t hear anything other than the constant staccato of machine gun fire.

After cleaning my filthy weapon for the third time and passing inspection, I tore out of the parking lot and through the main gate. But instead of bathing the dirt off my body, I was perched on the toolbox of my truck in a Walmart parking lot outside Fort Hood, waiting as the sun reflected off the hot black top.

My wife and I were about to celebrate our second anniversary and I wanted to get her what she had been hinting at for weeks—a flashy fawn boxer puppy.

An SUV pulled into the parking lot and I slid off the toolbox and quickly went to the back of the car. I couldn’t wait to meet this litter and their parents. The back opened and there was a loving male boxer with plenty of wet kisses to share and a beautiful flashy female. Their tales wagged incessantly—a good sign.

After chatting with the owner and receiv-

ing a barrage of wet dog kisses all over my hands, the owner brought two female puppies over to a shaded, grassy area off the pavement. One puppy clung to the owner, the other hurried over to see me; this was her— our Petunia! I paid the man, went to my hotel, showered and hopped back into my truck. I drove non-stop to Michigan to give my wife her gift.

A gift meant for my wife really became the best gift for me. Petunia was my best friend, riding in the truck everywhere I went and playing fetch every afternoon, rain or shine. She loved everyone, human or dog; everyone was a friend to her. She was the center of our whole life and gave us unconditional love for nine wonderful years.

The last six months of her life were very difficult. She lost interest in food, wouldn’t chase her ball; she became thin and walked aimlessly around the house. With all medical options exhausted, her pain could no longer be controlled. I kept reaching for anything I could do to combat her progressing diagnosis, thinking, I can fix this.

I came to grips with reality when I actually stopped, and saw in her eyes she wanted to go. I knew it was time to put her to sleep. I buried her with her favorite ball and planted Petunia flowers over her grave.

The final days of our companion animal’s life are overwhelmingly difficult.

Often, we, as owners, are faced with the agonizing decision of when to put down our best, furry friend. That can be a very emotional decision; however, at the right time, it may be the best and most humane option.

At the end of your pet’s life, there are a few symptoms that you can watch for that might suggest it is time to consider euthanasia. If your pet has lost interest in the things that she or he enjoys or won’t eat, or if your dog is suffering and there is no hope for reducing the misery, you should consider euthanasia.

Fortunately, your dog or cat’s final moments don’t have to be ones of suffering.

When done properly, humane euthanasia can be peaceful. Be sure to establish a relationship with a veterinarian you trust so that when that day comes, you are as ready as you can be.

The Rev. Dr. Bill Pederson, Pastor

9:15 am Sunday School 10:30 am Sunday Worship Children’s chapel & nursery offered during worship 5404 Williams Drive | Georgetown | 512-868-0902 | www.sgpcgeorgetown.org

Jarrell Animal Hospital 191 Town Center Blvd.

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11

CITY INSIDER

JANUARY 2020

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CITY INSIDER • Break in new shoes with a thick pair of wool socks. Wear the socks with the new shoes around the house while tidying up.

• My dad keeps a pants hanger in the bathtub to hang up the small nonstick mat that he keeps in there. He says if he hangs it, it doesn't get mildew on the bottom around the suction cups." ~ T.K. in Missouri

• Remember to write the date as "2020" on documents and checks. You don't want anyone to add whatever number they want after 01/01/20... e.g., 01/01/2016.

• If you want to find out if your email has been part of a hacker attack, visit https:// haveibeenpwned.com and enter your email address.

• I hang a mesh laundry bag where I keep my hamper. Socks go in the bag. When I'm ready to do laundry, I tie a knot in the bag and toss it in. Socks stay together. ~ T.O. in California • Last bowl of cereal? If you don't like the cascade of bits and dust at the bottom of the bag, empty the contents into a colander before you put it in the bowl.

• Our neighbor's dog got into the trash while they were out. They bought a crate, but he barked when he was in it.

So they put the trash can in the crate and let the dog have the house. It only took a couple of weeks before they were able to stop using the crate entirely. ~ C.M. in Virginia

• Common substitutions: Semisweet chocolate? Per ounce, use one square (1 ounce) of unsweetened chocolate and add 4 teaspoons of sugar.

Buttermilk? Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice per cup of milk.

Arrowroot starch? Substitute all-purpose flour.

• Clean and decorate a Pringles chip can to store a collection of colored pencils. Keep the lid on for portability. You can even roll up some plain paper to store inside for an on-the-go drawing kit.

• To heat up two plates of leftovers? Form the food into a ring (better for even heating), then set a microwave-safe glass or mug on the center of the plate. Set the second plate of leftovers on top.

• "If you thread a Slinky-type toy onto the pole of your bird feeder, the squirrels can't get to it. You can usually find these at the dollar store in a plastic version, too." ~ C.D. in Ohio • Movie theater hack: When buttering up your popcorn, grab a straw and stick it down into the tub. Line up the straw with the butter dispenser, and you can distrib-

ute butter into the lower layers of your popcorn. Remove the straw and finish off with butter over the top.

• Defog your bathroom mirror with a quick shot of shaving cream. Smear all around and wipe off with a clean, dry face cloth. ~ L.A. in Georgia • Use one leg of a pair of stockings over the hose of a vacuum cleaner to "dust" a bookcase. If you have small knickknacks they won't get sucked up, but dust will.

If your stocking gets clogged by a dust bunny, just wipe it off and continue.

• A toilet paper or paper towel roll slit down the side makes a handy clamp for keeping wrapping paper from unraveling.

• Mayonnaise can stand in for cooking oil in a recipe. Use in an equal amount. It works especially well in brownies.

leum jelly can be used in shower-door tracks to lubricate them, since it won't wash away easily.

• I like to use metal cans for storage in my shop. To make them safer, I file the rims and dip them in a shallow disk of melted wax. When the wax hardens, it fills in all the potential jagged edges that might lead to a small cut. ~ F.J. in Florida • Here's a fun plumbing trick: Use a wad of soft white bread (centers only) to plug up a pipe you are working on. The bread disintegrates quickly but will stop up any trickle of water long enough for you to seal two pipes together.

Send tips to Now Here's a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. © 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

• "When flossing, cut a length of floss, then tie the loose ends together. Now you have a circle and can hold it open with your fingers rather than wrapping the loose ends around your fingers and cutting off the circulation. All it takes is a little tension on the circle to keep the line taut." ~ C.E. in Kentucky • "If you have to wash dishes by hand, here's a tip for rinsing utensils: Clean silverware together and toss into a colander. Then you can rinse the whole thing together instead of each fork, knife or spoon. This will save time, and water." ~ M.V. in Ohio • Apply car wax to shower walls to keep soap scum from hanging around. Petro-

Tips for the Best Financial You in 2020 (StatePoint) At the same time that Americans are feeling the financial pinch of the holidays, they’re gearing up for 2020, with their top two goals being to save more and increase their credit scores, according to a national consumer survey by Experian.

Almost three out of four consumers surveyed are motivated to improve their finances. To reach their New Year goals, survey respondents say they’ll spend less money to improve their credit score (59%) and pay off credit card debt (58%).

To help get you started, Experian Boost ambassador, actor and financial empowerment activist, Hill Harper is providing these money tips: • Create a Financial Blueprint: The first step is to create a blueprint identifying your money, saving and investing goals.

Examine your priorities and determine how much money you require to meet your basic needs. From there, you should assess what else you need to be happy and how you can use money as a resource to achieve it.

• Assess the Cost of Being You: If your expenses or debt outpace your income, then it’s very difficult to live the best version of your life. Rather than continuously playing catch-up, track your spending to discover new ways to reduce monthly expenses. Apply those savings towards self-investment.

• Understand Smart vs. Dumb Money: Not all dollars spent hold the same value.

Knowing the difference between “smart” and “dumb” money is key to building a

solid financial foundation, according to Harper, who says that “dumb money” is spending on things like credit card interest or items that lose value quickly, whereas “smart money” is spending on things that pay dividends, like an

education or home.

• Control Your Credit Score: A good credit score can help you gain access to capital with better terms at affordable rates. To improve it, pay bills on time and use a resource like Experian Boost, which is a free online tool that allows you to add positive payment history from utility and telecom bills to your Experian credit file, which can increase your score instantly.

• New Year, New You: “We’re starting a new decade and what better opportunity is there to do a complete financial makeover?” says Harper, who recommends many other steps that will set you up for financial success, including building an emergency fund, securing health insurance, avoiding debt for unnecessary purchases and investing wisely.

“No one has a crystal ball, but given lower unemployment rates and low interest rates, 2020 could be a good year to have a plan for growth. A diversified portfolio for this next decade is a good portfolio,” says Harper. More tips from Harper can be found at www.experian.com/education.

While managing finances can seem intimidating, identifying trouble spots is the first step toward conquering your goals.

Photo: (c) Prostock-Studio / iStock via Getty Images Plus

13

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JANUARY 2020

CITY INSIDER

15

CITY INSIDER

JANUARY 2020