City Insider - January 2016

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Farewell 2015

Thanks for the Memories!

Neighborhood 13 Brings ‘The Big Easy’ New Beginnings in 2016 Special Care for Special Pets Wildfire Safety • Club News & Photos

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FINDING MY CENTER IN 2016 Happy 2016! I could start by contemplating on how time continues to march on; how it seems it was just yesterday that we were shivering in that bitter weather of January 2015, yet in the blink of an eye we are already anticipating what 2016 will hold. This time of year not only seems fitting for reflection, but refreshing in its newness, in the hope of things to come. It is with that thought that I am reminded for some years now of what a most notable man of American history, William Penn once scribed, “I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.”

And, at the commencement of each new year, I also try to keep in mind what the Apostle Paul wrote while he was in prison. He says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things!”

Remembering both of these helps me center myself for the year ahead.

Now, in my forties, I have a husband and a teenage son, and of course, a business to run, plus chickens and four cats to tend to—as a Texas transplant, I’m quite certain this justifies saying that we live at “Payne Ranch”—but that’s a different article.

Semantics aside, my point is, I try to stop and thank God every day for another opportunity to exercise both the philosophy of William Penn, and the God-breathed wisdom Paul imparted.

Assuredly I have my ups and downs.

I sometimes disappoint others and am disappointed by them; but in the end, as the years tick away, I have come to realize that my salvation and my purpose don’t begin when I am called to stand at the gates of heaven, but rather here and now, where I can make a difference!

I sincerely treasure the relationships with you all in Sun City, and I appreciate the love, concern, and wisdom that I continue to gain as I get to know you better. May this year be blessed beyond measure!

Cathy Payne, Managing Editor CPayne@CityInsiderTX.com

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CITY

INSIDER A Guide To Quality Living in Georgetown A local resource for residents of Sun City, Texas © 2016 Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC

CONTENTS 4

Neighborhood 13 Bringing ‘The Big Easy’ to Sun City

6

Residents Find Their Faith & Future At Celebration Church

8

Special Care For Special Pets

10

Georgettes High Step in the Christmas Parade

12

Wildfire Safety a Priority

14

Wisdom From the Rearview Mirror

15

10 Questions: Getting To Know Your Neighbors

16

Mayor’s Update

17

Crossword

18

The Past Is Present with the Williamson Museum

20

Meet the Candidates

STAFF Managing Editor/Lifestyles: Cathy Payne Writers: Ann Marie Ludlow, Kylie Ebersole, Conner Joyce Guest Columnists: Mayor Dale Ross, Mickie Ross, Sharon Patterson

CONTACT US

Info@CityInsiderTX.com P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537 To Advertise in City Insider, call a sales exec at 512-746-4545 Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

JANUARY 2016 | 3

City Insider

‘The Big Easy’ is Coming to Sun City

Neighborhood 13 Prepares For Their 10th Annual Mardi Gras Parade & Dance

By Kylie Ebersole

Sun City’s N-13 has gained a well-earned reputation as the most active neighborhood in Sun City. Hosting regular get-togethers, neighborhood residents have been known to rent out the ball room every year for private community parties. They hire caterers and bands and spend a great deal of time on decorations. N-13’s monthly events include dining-out excursions, ladies’ coffee, and the “ROMEOs,”

Sales • Service • Parts & Accessories

which stands for Retired Old Men Eating Out. Over the years, N-13 residents have found that enjoying these activities together gives them a sense of camaraderie that can lead to some larger-than-life celebrations.

The most epic of which may be the annual Mardi Gras celebration. This year, residents Randy Gehr and Donna Braun, along with the assistance of a “Krew Group” of forty volunteers, have taken on the responsibility of coordinating this grand celebration; and at 10 am on February 6, 2016, the

10th annual celebration’s festivities will kick off with a parade of crazy golf carts, decorated cars, and dazzling umbrellas. There will also be walkers from different local groups including the Shriners; the Jarrell High School marching band will show off their talents, beads will be thrown, and music and fun will permeate the air. Everyone is invited to join the parade, and participants will start lining up at 9 am.

The parade will run the entire length of Rio Grande Loop, about one mile.

Spectators are encouraged to claiming

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a crowd of around 350, and is open to all residents. This year’s Mardi Gras King and Queen, nominated by the Krew Group, will be crowned during the dance. Get beads, get your costumes, deck out your carts, or just come out and enjoy. For more tickets or more information, call Randy Gehr at 512-863-4100 or Donna Braun at 512-948-5116.

KEbersole@CityInsiderTX.com

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After the parade, the Krew Group will adorn the Sun City ballroom for the “After Party,” decking it out Louisiana-style for a true Mardi Gras dance and celebration at 7 pm. The Krew Group has arranged for Zydeco music to be pumping from an authentic Cajun band brought in from Baton Rouge. The dance typically attracts

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Opposite Page: Chub Meeker is ready to hand out beads at N13’s annual Mardi Gras parade.

Left Top: Pam Helge shows off her festive ride.

Bottom Left: A golf cart all “beaded” out…

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JANUARY 2016| 5

City Insider

Looking for a New Beginning in 2016?

Residents Find Their Faith & Their Future At Celebration Church

By Cathy Payne At the time of year when resolutions are frequently the topic of conversation, Georgetown’s Celebration Church offers opportunities for new beginnings that extend beyond diets, exercise regimens, or personal improvement campaigns. The church, which celebrated its fifteenth anniversary this past October, has as its mission “to connect people to Christ, the church and their calling.” And while there is nothing innately spiritual about the beginning of a new year, it is certainly a time when people are in a mode of self-reflection and many find a spiritual change may be in order.

Celebration Church founders and co-pastors Joe and Lori Champion explain that the name goes much deeper than a surface expression or emotion.

“Many people don’t think of church as a celebration, and we want them to come out feeling that they’ve just been to a celebration of Jesus, of his work,” says Lori, “and there is nothing worth celebrating more than that.” The Champions assert that the idea of celebration does not mean perpetual happiness or lack of adversity, pointing to the example that both Joe and Lori lost their fathers as at an early age, and that Lori faced a serious cancer diagnosis while pregnant with the couple’s first child. “You may come in here mourning or in a difficult place in your life, but at some point, in the presence of the Lord and this life-giving environment, that’s going to turn to celebration.”

It’s that strong, biblical message that Pastor Mark Balderson, head of the En Español and Prime Time (55+) ministries, says attracts people from every generation and demographic to Celebration Church. He recalls the warm reception he and his wife received two years ago when they first came to the church, before he joined the pastoral staff. “Most people, whether consciously or subconsciously, look around to see if there is someone like them,” and with over 1100 members (roughly 15-20% of 6 | JANUARY 2016

the congregation) who fall into the 55+ category, the Baldersons saw plenty of peers. Additionally, Mark was drawn to the message of Senior Pastor Joe Champion. “Besides the obvious anointing on his life, his age bridged that life experience for us,” he explains. “We could relate to him. We were inspired by the preaching and teaching, and the focus on the gospel. The message was applicable to us in our life season. The church was multi-generational – it wasn’t all young people, even though it has a younger sense in the style of music.”

While the modern, up-beat worship style can be a hurdle for some in the beginning, especially for seasoned church goers who are accustomed to a more traditional ecclesiastical experience, Sun City residents Charles and Jan Sikes (small group leaders and Celebration Church members for over 10 years), encourage people to visit and listen to the message before drawing conclusions. “Initially, the music was a challenge for us, because it was so different than what we had grown up with, but once you get used to it, and know that it’s backed by a sound message, it’s actually hard to go back [to something else].”

Celebration Church Prime Timers enjoy fellowship and fun during the holidays. Pictured clockwise: Jan Sikes, Bunny Bassett, Calvin Geter, Joseph Jenkins, Bing Bassett, Jessica Jenkins and Charles Sikes.

The multitude of young faces is also a draw, explains Jan. “In Sun City, residents are in an environment where there are no children, except when grandchildren come to visit; and the fact that there are all generations is something that actually attracts them to Celebration Church. Many people love seeing the little kids running around because for many of us, our grandchildren don’t live nearby, so we get to enjoy these little kids. It’s refreshing to get to see families, and kids, and all age groups.”

Small Groups Pastor Jacob Williamson explains that while Celebration Church unquestionably focuses on raising up the next generation, “we can’t do that without the previous generations.” “Honestly, we need gray hair [in the congregation],” he quips.

“We need to surround our church staff and congregation with mature leaders with life experience.” It’s this life experience and maturity older people bring in their interactions with others that helps fulfill the vision to be a church that is diverse in culture, age, and background, he says.

The bottom line, according to Pastor Mark, is that the older generation also goes through life crisis, health crisis and spiritual crisis. “People in Sun City go through divorce, broken relationships with children, struggle with addiction, or even face abuse.

It’s no different than what young people experience, and they need to have spiritual counsel. At a certain age, people may ask themselves, ‘What are you going to tell me that I don’t already know?’ and that’s why the message of Celebration Church important,” he asserts. “There may come a point in someone’s life where they realize they built their house on the sand; they may have built their lives, their careers, their families on something fleeting – and that’s why a strong message of evangelism needs to go out to this generation.”

Besides Sunday services, Celebration Church provides myriad opportunities for fellowship and service beyond the church walls. There are currently two small groups that meet in Sun City, and a third is starting this month. The church also has several hundred other small groups — based on everything from location, to day of the week, to special interest/need (motorcycles, dinner groups, sports, grief support are a few) that are open to anyone seeking fellowship and support, not just church members.

Additionally, the opportunities to serve others in

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Bunny Bassett enjoys one of Celebration Church’s monthly Prime Time luncheons. the church and the community are as numerous and varied as the life experience and talents in Sun City.

Retired people often find church service an opportunity to continue their life skill sets or to do something they always wanted to do, but never had a chance; opportunities include hospital visitation; end of life and hospice ministry; grief support; long term care support; prayer team; usher, greet or mentor; or work with the worship team, or in the nursery.

The Celebration Prime Time (55+) Group will be holding a reception on February 28, at 6 pm in the Florence Room of the Cowan Creek Golf Club.

Anyone who would like to know more about Celebration Church, or who is looking for fellowship, inside or outside a church setting, is encouraged to attend. For more information about Celebration Church’s Sun City small groups, contact Charles and Jan Sikes at 512-422-1917.

Celebration Church, located at 1202 Rabbit Hill Road in Georgetown, has services Saturday at 5 pm, and Sundays at 9:30 am, 11:15 am, and 1 pm. For more information, visit CelebrationChurchTX.com.

CPayne@CityInsiderTX.com

JANUARY 2016 | 7

City Insider

Local Animal Group Provides Pet O2 Masks To First Responders cue team.

By Ann Marie Ludlow

The kits contain different sized masks for large and small animals, as well as hoses and adapters.

Chief Sullivan said, “We had some in place, but these new kits have better seals. Animal care is not part of our standard care, but we know that to many residents, their pets are their family and we want to do everything we can for the safety and comfort of our human patients. Taking care of their pets is part of that comfort and reassurance.”

The Georgetown Fire & Rescue services were pleased to receive a very special value-add December 16 from the Travis County Kennel Club. Club member and Sun City resident Ron Henley presented Chief John Sullivan with ten brand new animal oxygen kits for the city’s fire engines and ambulances.

Henley says he saw a string of stories on the news about animals being treated for smoke inhalation in Austin and nearby. “One of the responders mentioned his kit was getting older and the seal wasn’t working properly. That struck me as a great way we could help.” Henley went to the board of the Kennel Club, which voted to purchase the kits from the funds raised at their annual AKC shows. Travis County replied they were fully outfitted at that time, so Henley brought his kits to Williamson County and our Georgetown department. He hopes to continue the practice and reach out to additional departments in the County and even the Texas Search and Res-

Sullivan says the kits are most helpful on calls for fires or gas leaks. “We can reassure people when we have to require them to stay outside, that we will be able to help their pets when we find them.”

The fire department provides basic training on the apparatus, which is a passive blow-by system of air.

Sullivan says future training may also include veterinary consulting to educate responders on animal behavior.

Aludlow@CityInsiderTX.com

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Above: Chief John Sullivan, Asst. Fire Chief Jeff Davis, Ron Henley, Toddy, Kennel member Danielle Brown Opposite page: Ryan Henley’s dog Toddy made a personal delivery to the Chief

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JANUARY 2016 | 11

City Insider

Wildfire Safety A Priority

By Kylie Ebersole

Sun City Texas, located in a climate susceptible to wildfire due to ongoing and extended drought conditions in central Texas, is becoming nationally known for its entirely voluntary Firewise program. The program’s main objective is to encourage people to be proactive and

take recommended steps to lessen the possibility of wildfire in their suburban communities. The program is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Agency and partners with the Texas A&M Forest Service, Firewise Communities/USA, and the Georgetown Fire Department who is also interested in implementing it

into the City of Georgetown.

Sun City residents Paul Ohlenbusch and Dan Dodson are responsible for the program’s progress in gaining national recognition. Firewise Training Coordinator, Paul, gained the bulk of his fire knowledge through his career as the Extension Grassland management specialist for Kansas State University where he developed an education program for prescribed fire using workshops and demonstrations. Dan, Firewise Education Coordinator, is a retired emergency services district commissioner for Harris County and a volunteer fireman. The two now volunteer their decades of combined knowledge and experience to lead the community to the fire-conscious environment it is today. Paul and Dan also pride themselves on continuing education to ensure they bring the most current information to the table; this research is never ending and continues to get better as time goes by.

Firewise communities boast more than 10 percent less fire damage than non-Firewise communities, and Sun City

has put standard requirements in place for the homes throughout the community. There are no wood fences, wood shingles, or woodpiles allowed, helping to decrease the possibility of a home catching fire. Because of the proven increased safety of implementing this program, as of June 1, 2015, USAA offers a discount to all policy holders living in a Firewise community, regardless of whether they are a participant of the program.

Sun City’s Firewise program, consisting solely of volunteer evaluators and educators, takes wild fire prevention education a step further by providing evaluations and lists of plants and their burn rating. It includes instruction on how far to plant from the house, how tall or full plants should be, and what kind of mulch is best for fire prevention. Residents can request an HIZ (Home Ignition Zone) evaluation free of cost. A qualified volunteer will come out, evaluate the exterior property for fire hazards, and give a report on what should be done to decrease the possibility of the home catching fire.

Educators have a display at the new resident orientation every three months, so new Sun Citians can learn about the program as soon as they move in.

For anyone interested in becoming an evaluator, training is conducted twice yearly, and consists of six hours of training. After training, volunteers will be accompanied by experienced personnel on five evaluations to be sure they are sufficiently trained; continuing education is required every two years. The group also holds an annual town hall meeting to refresh residents and offer opportunities to participate.

12 | JANUARY 2016

Top: Sun City Firewise volunteers remove small Ashe Juniper (Cedar) seedlings under a tree. • The 2015 Wildfire Preparedness Day crew including the Georgetown Fire Department Wildland Crew.

May 6, 2016 will be the third annual Firewise Wildfire Preparedness Day. All residents are invited and encouraged

y In Sun City

g

l f

n d

e

n

to come out and help with a clearing project within in Sun City. Last year, the Georgetown Fire Department brought their big chainsaws for heavier clearing and is expected to help out again.

For more information, visit SCTexas. org, click on “About Us” at the top, then click on “Firewise” from the list on the left side on the page.

KEbersole@CityInsiderTX.com

Mark your calendars: January 29 - Firewise Landscape Service Provider Training (by invitation) May 6 - Wildfire Preparedness Day April 28 - HIZ Training and Continuing Education October 4 - Firewise Town Hall October 27 - HIZ Training and Continuing Education

City Insider

Safe Christmas Tree Disposal

Did You Know?

The Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety has conducted studies on fire behavior to determine why a fire might get so large, it’s burn patterns, or why it burns so hot. After the Bastrop fires in 2011 and 2015, for example, researchers studied reasons for patch burning. Why does a fire burn in one area, skip another, and then burn in another? Most would not consider a relationship between flooding and wildfire, but they go hand in hand as debris left from flooding can be a major source of fuel for a spreading fire.

Wind patterns, underbrush, and small trees are all culprits, but the most common factor is wind-blown embers from a nearby fire.

This information proves to be instrumental in protecting a home and community from the possibility of burning. Simply removing debris and other types of fuel from around your home and surrounding areas can greatly reduce your risk of fire.

An example of maintaining shrubs based on Firewise concepts by keeping them 6-12” from the wall.

On average, one of every 31 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 144 total reported home fires. Not only should you make sure the tree is out of your home, make sure it is not posing a hazard near your home. According to the NFPA’s safety tips for Christmas trees, dried-out trees should never be left next to your home.

These trees disposed of outside can become ember catchers in the event of a wildfire.

What do you do with your old tree? There are many ways to reuse and recycle your tree (once you’ve removed all lights, bulbs and tinsel, of course): • Bring the tree to a recycling center. Some non-profits and local parks sponsor recycling projects to assist with their onsite efforts. For more information about how to find or start a Christmas tree recycling center visit the National Christmas Tree Association website.

• Have the tree mulched. Do not use this mulch within the first five feet of your home.

• Mulch the tree branches and save the tree trunk in a bucket of sand for a cat scratching post.

• Feed your Christmas tree to a hungry herd of goats. They eat the branches and leave the trunks that can be mulched or used as fence posts.

• Next year, buy a live native tree and donate it to be planted.

From the NFPA website

JANUARY 2016 | 13

City Insider

Wisdom

Sometimes I vacation there before some event that I dread, Or after something misunderstood that someone has said.

I can fly to the Land of What Ifs in any season, It is such a short trip in my mind and requires no rhyme or reason.

Haven’t you been there, too?

I think I saw you the last time you were blue!

Perhaps you’ll recall We were just there together after yesterday’s trip to the mall.

From the rearview mirror

The Terrible Land of What-Ifs?

Remember, we passed LA Fitness center on the way And paused to wonder, what if? But did not stay.

On to Macy’s figuring, “what if I could buy all that?

What if I were a size smaller…or my hair not so flat?”

By Sharon L. Patterson Too often, I have traveled to a terrifying place Whose guests suffer such loathsome disgrace.

Why I go there, I’ll never understand, Because it is absolutely the most disagreeable land.

Passing by Zales, you questioned… what if he had bought me THAT ring?

Instead of this teeny tiny pitiful old thing!

Then, I ran into my neighbor’s straight A “perfect child” And wondered, “what if my budding genius weren’t so wild?”

It seems I am most tempted to travel there When I get fearful or tearful somewhere Deep inside the emotional me When I am doubtful, or poutful or in adversity.

Lastly, searching my wallet after all the money I spent I pondered, “what if I hadn’t been so generous & lent Uncle Charles, Aunt Pearl and Cousin Jenny My extra “hidden” hundred and twenty?”

Hey, perhaps there is a better place for us to go Remember last Sunday’s sermon by Pastor Joe? There’s always a table set with a place If you stay in the land of God’s amazing grace!

Sharon L. Patterson, retired educator, author, and lay minister from Round Rock has written and published inspirational encouragement in various forms from greeting cards, short stories, poetry, and Bible studies for over thirty years. She has authored three books, she recently published a perpetual desk calendar, and is also a contributing author for seven books. Additionally, Sharon writes for the quarterly e-zine Ruby for Women.

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What was your job/career?

Meet Jim Grier 4My first job out of college was with

City Insider

were you when 5 Where President Kennedy was shot?

questions

I was on my way from classes at SMU to work when I heard the news on the radio of a 1942 Chevrolet I had borrowed from my future father- in- law so that I had transportation to college.

Where did you grow up?

1 I was born in Alice, Texas and grew up in Dallas, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School and Southern Methodist University.

2 What was your first job?

My first job was with Moore Business Supplies when I was 8. I made 25 cents per afternoon dusting shelves and sweeping the floors.

My grandfather, who lived with us, gave me 25 cents for every 25 cents I earned. $2.50 per week was good wages for an 8 year old in 1950.

First Car? 3 A 1950 Ford purchased in 1960.

10 Getting to Know Your Neighbors

KPMG in 1964, then known as Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co.

“rule of thumb” do you 6 What live by?

Work hard. The harder you work, the luckier you get.

9

7

Invention of the computer which led to all the devices we carry with us all day every day.

What was the first movie you saw in a theater?

Probably a western at the Peak Theater in Dallas. My mother gave my 25 cents for the Saturday double feature.

9 cents for admission, 10 cents for popcorn, 5 cents for a soda—leaving me with a penny. is living in Texas now 8 How different from when you grew up?

Air conditioning.

What is the most significant historical event that has occurred during your life time?

is your favorite part 10 What about living in Sun City?

I can be as active or idle as I wish. It is my choice.

Jim and his wife of 53 years, Betty, were high school sweethearts. They moved from Dallas to New York City to Houston and then back to Dallas during his career with KPMG. After retirement in 1992, Jim worked for Fina, Inc. (a fortune 500 company) as Financial VP. The Griers moved to Sun City in 2006. Betty is active in the Dance and Drill Club and the Fabric and Fiber Club. Jim served on the Wildlife Committee and is active in the Hunting and Fishing Club, serving as president in 2013 and 2014. They have two sons, five grandchildren.

Jim and Betty have visited 43 countries and all seven continents.

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City Insider

MAYOR’S UPDATE Georgetown: A Safe City

By Mayor Dale Ross

In 2015 Georgetown received many blessings and an important one was our continued low crime rate.

The latest available FBI Crime Report identifies the historic city of Georgetown as a safe place to live. According to The Safewise Report, Georgetown made the top 50 list for safest cities in Texas with 20,000 residents or more.

This was the second year in a row for our city to make this list. In addition, we were the second safest city in Texas compared to other cities in Texas with similar populations - 50,000 or more residents.

showing it off. All you have to do is call them and make an appointment for a tour that is convenient for you.

Sun City is an especially safe place to live. Based on the latest crime data for 2015 there were only 32 crimes reported in Sun City. These included one for burglary, one for auto theft and 30 incidents related to larceny (burglary of a vehicle). Sun City accounts for approximately 28% of our population: yet only 4% of the reported crimes occurred in this neighborhood.

Second, the City Council appointed Wayne Nero as our Police Chief in 2010 and the public safety history in Georgetown would most likely been quite different during the last five years without Chief Nero’s leadership.

He inherited a culture in the department which had little direction. That culture has changed as a result of

The voter’s decision in 2011 to approve the bond package for this facility was timely since the U.S. Census Bureau announced that in 2014, Georgetown was the second-fastest growing city in the U.S. Our growth rate of 7.6 percent was the second-highest among cities with 50,000 residents or more. The challenge we will continue to face as we experience explosive growth is to keep the crime rate at the lowest level possible.

his strong and charismatic leadership skills, and the low crime rate in our city indicates he was the right man at the right time for our city. From day one he has consistently re-enforced that everyone in his department must “refuse mediocrity”.

Third and most importantly, the women and men of the Georgetown Police Department (GPD) keep us safe every day. These dedicated public servants have the experience, the training and the skills to continue to set the standard in law enforcement.

Looking forward to 2016 we will focus on selected priorities covering four main themes: 1. We will enhance public safety where the goal is to reduce crime and the fear of crime by the use of crime analysis and public education and awareness.

2. We will continue organizational development by training our law enforcement personnel to the desired competency and to enhance our recruiting and retention abilities.

3. We will advance both our internal and external teamwork and partnerships via employee and community engagement.

4. We will continue to be innovative by leveraging technology and staying on the contemporary edge of the law enforcement profession to meet our goals.

In short, as we continue to see explosive growth in our community the challenge will be to keep our crime rate low. If the past is an indicator of the future, I am confident that our Georgetown Police Department is up to the challenge as the brave men and women of our police department have proven they “serve with honor and protect with vigilance” every day.

Having a low crime rate in Georgetown has not happened by accident and, in my view, several important factors have led to our success.

First, we are fortunate to have citizens who are extremely supportive of our public safety goals. Our citizens recognized that in order to maintain a top-rated police department we needed a facility that would allow us to recruit, train and retain first-rate professionals. In 2011 the voters approved a $29.5 million bond package that allowed for the construction of a one-of-kind, state-of-the-art public safety and training complex. The facility opened in February of 2015. If you have not yet toured this amazing facility, our police department enjoys 16 | JANUARY 2016

Mayor Dale Ross (center) cuts the ribbon at Georgetown’s new Public Safety Training Center. Pictured with City Manager David Morgan, Council members Tommy Gonzalez, Anna Eby,Rachael Jonrowe, Police Chief Nero and Fire Chief Sullivan.

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The Past Is Present

By Mickie Ross

The Civil War January 1, 1863, witnessed one of the two Civil War battles that took place in Texas during the War Between the States. Confederate forces attacked Union troops in Galveston who had held the city since October of 1862. Under the direction of General J. B. Magruder, some troops were placed on two river steamers, the Bayou City and the Neptune, while others were directed to cross the railroad bridge leading to the island. The Confederate soldiers entered the city in the evening and began their assault before dawn on January 2.

In the surprise attack, the Union steamer the Harriet Lane was captured and the Westfield was run aground. The other Union ships sailed out to sea while the ground troops surrendered to the Confederates. The port of Galveston was once again under Confederate control, where it remained until the end of the war.

crossed the county after the war.

Faubion and Anderson descendants still live in Williamson County today.

David Cooke served as Chief Justice of the county from 1866-67. George Craven, who enlisted from Round Rock, was a wagon maker. After the war, he worked as a wheelwright and wagon maker, and had a shop on Congress Avenue in Austin for many years.

The story of the Civil War is a complicated one to tell, but facts play

During this battle on Texas soil, Williamson County men were there.

The Williamson County Grays, who enlisted in Georgetown in October of 1861, took part in the action under the command of Col. Bagby. Known as Company C of the 7th Regiment Texas Cavalry, many of the 56 men in the company resided on the western side of the county. They served for the duration of the war, with most of their action taking place in western Louisiana.

Many of the names on the Williamson Grays roster mirror the history of the county. Men such as Cluck, Standefer, McMordie and Juvenal all played a role in the cattle drives which

Above: David Cooke was a member of the Williamson County Grays, and Chief Justice of Williamson County from 1866-67.

Left & Below: Confederates capture the USS Harriet Lane off Galveston, Texas, January 1, 1863 Photos courtesy of the Williamson Museum.

18 | JANUARY 2016

a vital role in telling that story. Williamson County did indeed vote against secession at the state convention, one of only eight counties to do so. Thomas Proctor Hughes, our representative who cast that vote, was a slave owner who later enlisted in the Confederate Army. When the vote was taken in the county, 480 opposed secession while 349 people voted for it. There were several men who joined the ranks of the Union army to fight for the United States, but there were five companies of soldiers from the county who joined the Confederate Army to fight and to protect the state. According to the U.S. Census of 1860, of the 4,500 people who lived in Williamson County, almost 900 of them were slaves.

The Williamson Museum’s current exhibit, Courage and Contradiction: The Civil War Stories of Williamson County, tells the story of Williamson County residents in the 1860s. Based on factual events and first –person accounts, the story is presented so that the public can learn about the heritage of the county. Programming surrounding the exhibit, which runs until April 2017, is designed to do the same thing – provide visitors with a glimpse of life here in the county during the 1860s. From History Happy Hours to Summer History Explorers Camp to Salon topics and Hands on History, our programs are informative and have been well attended.

The Old South Ball on January 30 is another such educational program.

It will mirror the simple get-togethers that took place here during the war - the only difference is that it takes place in a larger venue than a home so that more people who are interested in the time period can participate.

The food, drinks, music and dress will represent what people would have experienced during the time period – and nothing more. To learn more about the museum’s exhibits and events, please visit the website at www.williamsonmuseum.org.

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JANUARY 2016 | 19

City Insider

A look at your State & Local 2016 Primary Ballot For detailed information about individual candidates views, experience and platforms, please visit their campaign websites (provided when available). Williamson County voting dates and locations can be found online at www.Wilco.org.

U.S. House, Dist 31 Republican

State Representative District 20 Republican

the Texas FFA Association; classroom instructor for 13 years. MaynardforTexas.com

Democrat

olence prosecutor in Bexar and Williamson Counties; worked for CPS and is a licensed foster parent; as DA, disposed of 1,536 cases outstanding from previous administration; 98% conviction rate including one cold case murder conviction, and four cold case indictments. JanaDuty.com

John R. Carter (i)

7-term incumbent; Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations; in his third term as Co-Chairman of the bipartisan House Army Caucus.

JohnCarterforCongress.com

Marsha Farney (i)

Two-term Texas Representative; businesswoman and former educator; Former State Board of Education Dist 10; Marsha Farney.com

Judy Jennings

Director of Assessment at Resources for Learning, LLC; holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Texas; worked for the Texas Education Agency. votejudyjennings.com

District Attorney Mike Sweeney

Terry Wilson

Democrat

State Board of Education, District 10

CEO, with a career in IT; international business experience.

Financial institution board member. MikeSweeney4Congress.com

Combat veteran; Colonel (r) in the U.S. Army; senior leader in the Department of the Army.

TerryWilsonforTexas.com

Sets policy and standard for Texas public schools.

Represents the state in prosecuting felony criminal cases.

Works with law enforcement officers in the investigation of criminal cases. Presents cases to the grand jury. Represents victims of violence in protective orders and represents the state in removing children from abusive households.

Republican

Republican

Mike Clark

Williamson County resident for 20 years with a background in geology, GIS and computer science. VoteMikeClark.com

20 | JANUARY 2016

Jana Duty (i) Tom Maynard (i)

Current Executive Director of

Elected District Attorney in 2013; Williamson County Attorney 2005-2012; Family vi-

Shawn Dick

Private practice defense attorney; board certified in Criminal Law; former prosecutor for Harris County and Williamson County District Attorney’s Offices; Prosecutor of the Year

by Texas Gang Investigator Association (2004). “Super Lawyer Rising Star”, member of Texas Bar College; Tried 75 jury trials; handled over 10,000 criminal and juvenile cases. ShawnDick.com

County Attorney

Represents the state in prosecuting misdemeanor criminal cases. Works with law enforcement officers in the investigation of criminal cases.

Provides legal advice to the Commissioners Court and to other elected officials. Brings civil enforcement actions on behalf of the state or county.

Republican

Leadership Command College, Constable Leadership School, and FBI National Academy; 30 years law enforcement experience; Army veteran; former Austin Police officer.

RobertChody.com

Dee Hobbs (i)

Elected CA in 2013; as CA, implemented Williamson County’s DWI/Drug Court program, and doubled the number of protective court orders for family violence victims; currently serves as the Criminal Court’s Chief; previously worked 10 years Assistant County Attorney.

DeeHobbsforCA.com

Sheriff

Provides law enforcement protection to the unincorporated and rural areas of the county, and other functions such as traffic control and enforcement, accident investigations, and maintenance and transportation of prisoners.

May perform criminal investigations or engage in other specialized law enforcement activities.

Republican

Robert Chody

Elected Precinct 1 Constable since 2008; graduate of Texas

Mike Cowie

Lieutenant, Sheriff’s Department with 40 years in law enforcement; Criminal Law Enforcement division in narcotics service; currently works Criminal Investigation Division.

CowieforSheriff.com

Randy Elliston

30 years at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), most recently as Chief; served as a commissioner for the Texas Commission on State Emergency; currently works at the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Elliston4Sheriff.com

City Insider Republican

Bill Kelberlau

Navy veteran; intelligence and training officer; management experience in military and civilian organizations.

SheriffBill.com

Matt Heaton

Founding partner and president of Heaton-Bennett insurance agency; business owner with real estate lending experience.

and commercial real estate developer.

DougJeffrey4Texas.com

John Greytok

Austin attorney and lobbyist.

JohnGreytok.com

Democrat

Ron Hale

Worked across multiple industries, from security to engineering; licensed engineer who specializes in anti-terrorism consulting for the Oil and Gas industry.

RonHaleforTexas.com

Libertarian

Place 5

Mark Miller

Paul Green (i)

PhD from Standford; career as a petroleum engineer; taught petroleum engineering at UT for 18 years; owned a petroleum engineering consulting practice; founded a company that provided software to the oil and gas industry; candidate for Railroad Commission in 2014. Miller4TX.com

Elected to the Texas Supreme Court in 2004; served on the Fourth Court of Appeals in San Antonio for ten years.

TexansforJusticePaulGreen.com

Weston Martinez Tony Trumps

Retired police officer and former Williamson County corrections officer. Trumps4Sheriff.com

Pct. 3 Commissioner

Exercises broad policy-making authority. Represents one of four precincts within the county. Typically responsible for building and maintaining county roads and bridges within the precinct.

Republican

Anthony Rector

Director of Victim Services at Georgetown Police Department.

Texas Real Estate Commission public member; Career in oil and gas business development; Political commentator; worked against voter fraud in south Texas. WestonforTexas.com

Gary Gates

Real estate investor; Master’s degree in tax law; Army veteran. GaryGatesforTexas.com

Constable - Pct. 3

Arrest powers similar to those of city police officers and sheriff’s deputies. Traditionally, constables have focused on duties such as serving civil documents, evictions, property seizures and executing warrants.

Texas Supreme Court

Democrat

The Supreme Court of Texas is the court of last resort for civil matters (including juvenile delinquency which the law considers a civil matter

Republican

Rick Green

Former state legislator and constitutional scholar; founder of Patriot Academy, constitutional education organization.

RickGreen4Texas.com

Place 9

Place 3

Lance N. Christian

Geoscientist at Railroad Commission.

Republican

Eva Guzman (i) Grady Yarbrough

Former educator, resident of San Antonio; candidate for U.S. Senate in 2012.

Debra Lehrmann (i) - appointed to the Texas Supreme Court in 2010; worked as a family law trial judge for twenty-three years.

JudgeDebraLehrmann.com

Appointed to the Texas Supreme Court in 2009; elected in 2010; former 14th Court of Appeals Judge and 309th District Court judge.

EvaGuzman.com

Wayne Christian Valerie Covey (i)

Elected to the Commissioners Court in 2008; Leader in road and county growth projects, preservation issues, mental health issues, jail diversion programs; helped reduce voter-approved debt by $10M; licensed CPA. ValerieCovey.com

Kevin Stofle (i)

Appointed by Commissioners’ Court in 2013; Former peace officer and law enforcement instructor; Assistant Chief of police in Georgetown; emergency management coordinator for the City of Georgetown.

Railroad Commissioner The Railroad Commission of Texas regulates the oil and gas industry in the state.

Financial planner; former member of Texas House of Representatives.

ChristianforTexas.com

Lon Burman

Doug Jeffrey

U.S. Air Force veteran; founder of a venture capital business,

Former state representative (18 years) from Fort Worth.

Cody Garrett – Former print and television journalist; Democratic Party precinct chair; worked at the Texas Legislative council for 6 years.

Joe Pool, Jr. Michael Massengale

Judge, 1st Court of Appeals since 2009; board certified in civil appellate law; specialized in commercial litigation, corporate mergers and acquisitions, securities fraud and antitrust.

MichaelMassengale.com

Served as General Counsel to the Dripping Springs Water Supply Corporation; practiced family, probate and general civil business litigation.

Facebook/pool4texas

JANUARY 2016 | 21

City Insider Democrat Place 3 Mike Westergren

Attorney since 1970; former District Judge in Nueces County; County Attorney and Justice of the Peace.

Mary Lou Keel

Justice 13th Court of Appeals since 2003.

Place 9

Place 2

Danbury general practice attorney 34 years.

Court of Criminal Appeals

The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, court of last resort for all criminal matters in the State of Texas; hears death penalty cases, post-conviction writs of habeas corpus and from lower appellate courts.

Judge 232nd District Court since 1995; 25 years criminal trial experience (21 years felony), argued 15 death penalty cases with no reversals; Assistant DA in trial and appellate courts; board certified in criminal law. MaryLouKeel.com

27 years 226th District Court Judge; adjunct professor of Trial Law at St. Mary’s University Law School; presiding judge over Michael Morton’s exoneration hearing.

ElectSidHarle.com

Steve Smith

Judge for the 361st District Court since 1999; Judge of Brazos County Court at Law No. 1 1995-1998; authored 16 published opinions; staff attorney for Texas senate, legislative council.

Lawrence E. Meyers (i)

Elected to the Court of Criminal Appeals in 1992; Associate Justice on 2nd Court of Appeals in Ft Worth 1989-1992.

Place 5 Betsy Johnson

San Antonio attorney

Place 6

Board certified in criminal law; professor; Judge Collin County Court at Law, 416th District 15 years; 7 years prosecutor; Chair-Elect of the Judicial Section of the State Bar of Texas.

ChrisOldner.com

Place 5

Scott Walker Former County and District Court judge; Chairman of Governor’s Specialized Courts Advisory Council; board certified in civil trial law and personal injury trial law; es-

22 | JANUARY 2016

Justice on the Court of Criminal Appeals since 1998; ADA in Dallas County; Judge 292nd District Court; Dean of Continuing Judicial Education; instituted TX College of Advanced Judicial Studies; legal instructor; faculty member at National Judicial College.

JudgeKeasler.com

Brent Webster

Prosecutor, Assistant District Attorney, and General Counsel to Williamson County District Attorney; felony trial experience. WebsterforJudge.com

Ray Wheless

Judge for Texas Criminal District Court (No. 1) in Dallas County since 2006.

Michael E. Keasler (i)

Dallas attorney.

LawyerWalker.com

3rd Court of Appeals

Intermediate appellate jurisdiction of both civil and criminal cases appealed from lower courts in twenty-four counties of Texas; in civil cases where judgment rendered exceeds $100, exclusive of costs, and other civil proceedings as provided by law; and in criminal cases except in post-conviction writs of habeas corpus and where the death penalty has been imposed.

Republican Place 2 Richard Davis

Former prosecutor and guest lecturer at Baylor Law School; Practiced law 32 years.

Facebook/Richard Davis for Judge Court of Criminal Appeals Place 6

Melissa Goodwin (i)

Justice on the 3rd Court of Appeals Since 2011; Judge for the 427th Judicial District Court of Travis County and Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3, Travis County; attorney for the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

JusticeMelissaGoodwin.com

Terence Davis

Board certified family law; 15 years legal experience; general counsel to Republican Party of Williamson County; #2 ranking on local bar poll; previously elected MUD official; small business owner.

Davisfor395th.com

District Courts

Robert Burns

Chris Oldner

Republican Place 2

395th District Court Family law Republican

Place 4

Place 6

Savannah Robinson

in business trial and appellate cases in state and federal courts. JusticeCindyBourland.com

Sid Harle

Place 5

Dori Garza

Democrat

tablished Collin County’s first misdemeanor and felony drug court programs; U.S. Air Force veteran. JudgeRayWheless.com

Cindy Bourland (i)

Appointed to the 3rd Court of Appeals in January 2015; private practice attorney for 20 years; extensive experience

Texas District courts have original jurisdiction in all felony criminal cases, divorce cases, land title disputes, election contests, civil matters in which at least $200 is disputed or claimed in damages, as well as other matters.

26th District Court Criminal, Civil & CPS Republican

Ryan Larson

Former Assistant Texas Attorney General; Director of Hearings (Administrative Law Judge) for the Railroad Commission of Texas; Fellow of Texas Bar Foundation).

VoteRyanLarson.com

425th District Court Family law Republican

Donna King (i)

Appointed to the 26th District Court in November 2014; former Municipal Judge/ Magistrate; Assistant County Attorney; felony trial prosecutor; worked for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

JudgeDonnaKing.com

Betsy F. Lambeth (i)

Elected to the 425th District Court in 2012; 25 years family law experience.

BetsyforJudge.com

County Court at Law #2 Manages misdemeanor criminal cases, and normally have appellate jurisdiction in cases appealed from justice of the peace and municipal courts.

Court #2 has a special Veteran and DWI court.

Tax Assessor-Collector

Republican

Laura Barker Lesli Fitzpatrick

15 years as a licensed prosecutor and defense attorney; private criminal defense practice; DWI/Drug Court evaluator in County Court #2; former general counsel for Republican Party. LesliforJudge.com

13 years’ experience with criminal, juvenile and civil cases; extensive trial experience; past president of Williamson County Bar Association.

LauraBarkerforJudge.com

Calculates property tax rates for the county. Collects property taxes for the county. May collect taxes for cities, schools and other local taxing entities.

Processes motor vehicle title transfers. Issues motor vehicle registration and licenses.

May process boat titles and registrations. Registers voters and may conduct elections.

Collects various other fees for the state and county.

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Republican

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454-7336

Warren Waterman Brandy Hallford

19 years law practice; former prosecutor for Williamson County, Dallas County and for the Texas Attorney General’s Office; former Criminal division chief for Williamson County Attorney; private practice attorney in CPS cases.

BrandyHallfordforJudge.com

Lead prosecutor for County Court #2, DWI/Drug court; 20 years legal experience as prosecutor and defense counsel; over 100 trials, lead prosecutor for family services.

VoteWOW4Judge.com

RealGreenLawns.com

Larry Gaddes

Chief Deputy at the tax office 5 years; Certified Tax Administrator (CTA) in 2014.

LarryGaddes.com

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