Georgetown View • September 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026

BUILT TO LEAD

TERRY WILSON

SOLDIER • STATESMAN • TEXAN THE ULTIMATE CONNECTOR Michael Lucas: A One-Man Entertainment Industry

KIDS & EDUCATION GISD's Budget is About the Kids

WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS" The Chisholm Trail

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WHO WE ARE

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n an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, the Georgetown View constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive: its people and their impact.

Since its inception in 2009, the Georgetown View has not only reported on the great stories and people in our city but also tak-

en pride in actively contributing to its enrichment. Through donations exceeding $100,000 in advertising, we have extended our support beyond the printed page to organizations that further amplify the voices of those who work tirelessly to make a difference, ensuring their missions reach as many eyes and hearts as possible.

But we are also good at doing what we do–showcasing prominent local businesses and community agencies and initiatives like ROCK, Georgetown ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to personally engage and participate in the missions of these community pillars.

In every story, from first responders and veterans to the latest city events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In addition to these, every November our

PUBLISHER Cathy Payne • cathy@georgetownview.com SENIOR WRITERS / CONTENT EDITORS Ann Marie Kennon • Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton • Steve Fought CONTENT MANAGER Camy Reynolds GRAPHIC DESIGN Ann Marie Kennon • Joni Mozis BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jesse Payne WEBMASTER Ann Marie Kennon ADVERTISING 512.746.4545 info@georgetownview.com Georgetown View is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

Copyright © 2026 All rights reserved.

Georgetown View is mailed monthly via USPS to homes and businesses in Georgetown, TX zip codes.

Mail may be sent to: Georgetown View P.O. Box 203 • Jarrell, TX 76537

"Giving Thanks and Giving Back" issue shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts, reminding us of the power of community support and the importance of gratitude.

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In short, we believe the Georgetown View is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.

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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER FEATURES 6

COVER FEATURE • MEET TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE TERRY WILSON COVER PHOTO COURTESY TERRY WILSON FOR TEXAS

11 THE ULTIMATE CONNECTOR • MICHAEL LUCAS ENTERTAINMENT

COLUMNS 18 KIDS & EDUCATION • STRONG SCHOOLS, STRONG BUDGET Sponsored by InnerSpace Cavern

22 WHAT MAKES TEXAS, "TEXAS"? • THE CHISHOLM TRAIL 26 ASK A PRO • INNERSPACE CAVERN

14 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT CAMP BRITESIDE

29 ASK A PRO • WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED 32 POPPY TALKS • SEEKING COUNSEL

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CONTACT US • 512-746-4545 INFO@GEORGETOWNVIEW.COM

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ASK A PRO • FEATURED PROFESSIONALS Meet our Pros — professionals, business owners, and subject matter experts from leading local companies who share their knowledge and expertise to bring readers practical advice, how-to tips, best practices, and current and emerging trends.

To learn more about becoming a Featured Professional, contact info@georgetownview.com or 512-746-4545.

Hall's Roofing & Sheet Metal, LLC Austin Orthopedic Institute Board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, joint reconstruction, and orthopedic trauma, with over 15 years of surgical expertise. www.AustinOI.com 512-856-1000

Inner Space Cavern One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round.

InnerSpaceCavern.com 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown

Doleva Elite Tree Certified Arborists to care for your trees! Our large equipment makes jobs efficient and economic, and prevents damage to lawn or property.

Serving Georgetown since 2009.

DolevaEliteTree.com 512-943-8733

Family owned since 1939.

Roofing professionals specializing in full-service roof repair, installation, and replacement.

HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579

Keller Commercial & Home Services Experts specializing in maintenance, enhancement, and design. Armed with cutting-edge tools and programs — driving rapid growth in architectural landscaping.

KellerServicesTX.com 512-930-4769

Moore Liberty Buildings Chad & Amanda Moore Thousands of structures built since 2015.

MooreLibertyBuildings.com 512-548-6474

Silk + Stone Acupuncture Personalized holistic treatments blending traditional Chinese medicine and modern insight, addressing pain, hormones, digestion, fertility, and stress to restore balance.

The Wesleyan Providing a new, bountiful experience of aging full of purpose, passion, and possibility for more than 50 years.

SilkAndStoneAcupuncture.com (512) 818-4949

TheWesleyan.org

Prime Wellness and Longevity Personalized hormone therapy, weight loss, and wellness plans to help clients optimize health, boost energy, and feel their absolute best.

PrimeWellnessand Longevity.com 512-240-4456

Wild Birds Unlimited Expert advice, quality seed, and feeders. Let us provide joy to you and your backyard birds. We bring people and nature together and do it with excellence.

GeorgetownTX.wbu.com (512) 763-1081

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COVER FEATURE

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon • p h oto c ou rte s y Re p. Ter r y Wi ls o n

Meet

TERRY WILSON 

A SOLDIER’S APPROACH TO LEADERSHIP, EDUCATION, AND TEXAS’ FUTURE Long before Terry Wilson began working on state budgets, education policy, workforce development, or emergency preparedness, he spent 32 years serving his country as an American soldier.

That experience continues to shape the way Colonel Wilson approaches his work as the Texas House District 20 representative. His record in the Legislature reflects a leader focused not simply on identifying problems, but on understanding the systems behind them, bringing the right people together, and investing in solutions designed to work for the long term. Nowhere is that more apparent than in one of his signature priorities: education.

EDUCATION WITH A DESTINATION Public and higher education became a major focus for Rep. Wilson after he was elected to the Texas House. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article III in 2021, he helped oversee the portion of the state budget responsible for public and higher education—more than one-third of the entire Texas budget. But he has consistently argued that educational success should not be defined exclusively by a four-year college degree.

His interest in vocational education began during his Army career. As an acquisition executive, Colonel Wilson was responsible for moving completed military research and devel6

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opment into production. He saw defense contractors rely on foreign partners because the United States lacked sufficient domestic production capacity and skilled workers. For him, the shortage was more than an economic concern; dependence on overseas manufacturing could also put American intellectual property and national security at risk.

That experience became a catalyst for his efforts to expand Career and Technical Education in Texas. During his tenure as Article III chairman, Wilson helped direct major invest-

At a Glance

RETIRED U.S. ARMY COLONEL 32 years of service • Decorated Combat Veteran TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE House District 20 LEADER IN THE TEXAS HOUSE Chairman, House Committee on Higher Education FOCUS AREAS Education & Workforce • Higher Education Property Taxes • Defense & Veterans Infrastructure • Disaster Preparedness PERSONAL Married to Shannon for 30 years and father to William, a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army, and Benjamin, a member of the TAMU Corps of Cadets.

Rep. Wilson earned a BS in Business Administration from Texas A&M University and an MS in Strategic Logistics Plans and Management from the Air War University.

COVER FEATURE

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College is one path to success, not the definition of success.

ments toward P-TECH programs that allow schools to partner with community colleges, technical colleges, and industry. Students can begin exploring careers as early as 7th grade and work toward certifications, college credit, associate degrees, and workforce experience while still in school.

devastating 2025 Hill Country floods, served on the Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding.

He carried legislation in the House requiring outdoor warning sirens in flash-flood-prone areas and supported stronger emergency planning for youth camps.

The goal, the Representative has said repeatedly, is to give students multiple pathways to success while ensuring workforce programs correspond to jobs Texas actually needs.

Now, as Chairman of Higher Education, he similarly connects economic growth with national security; helping lay the groundwork for the Texas University Fund, which established a $1 billion investment fund to support university research. More recently, he authored and passed HB 127, creating a Research Security Council to help Texas institutions protect sensitive research and intellectual property from foreign threats.

That philosophy continues today. Recent state investments include approximately $850 million in a permanent Texas State Technical College endowment, as well as programs supporting equipment and short-term training for high-demand careers. Rep. Wilson also advocates greater cooperation among school districts, colleges, workforce boards, and employers rather than asking students to navigate separate systems on their own.

PROTECTING TEXAS’ FUTURE Terry Wilson’s military background is also evident in his work on defense, emergency preparedness, and higher education research.

During his time as Chairman of the House Committee on Defense & Veterans’ Affairs, he focused on protecting Texas military installations while strengthening the communities surrounding them. His priorities include military family quality of life, professional license portability for military spouses, preventing encroachment around installations, and ensuring Texas remains positioned to attract new military missions.

The same emphasis on preparedness extends to natural disasters.

Rep. Wilson has advocated stronger coordination among local responders and state agencies and, following the

GROWTH WITH ACCOUNTABILITY Closer to home, Rep. Wilson has also focused on problems created by Central Texas’ extraordinary growth.

In Williamson County, that includes the rapid expansion of aggregate production operations—the quarries and facilities supplying the sand, gravel, and crushed stone necessary for roads and construction. He has pushed for reforms addressing air quality, noise, traffic safety, groundwater use, setbacks, and reclamation while acknowledging the industry’s importance to a growing state.

That balance is characteristic of his approach: economic growth and infrastructure are necessary, but so are accountability, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and protection of the communities affected by that growth.

Across issues as different as school finance, skilled trades, military readiness, research security, disaster planning, property taxes, and infrastructure, a common thread emerges from his years in office.

Pol. Ad. Paid for by the Terry Wilson Campaign

The mission may change, but the method is familiar: identify what Texas will need next, bring the pieces together, and start building before the need becomes a crisis.

AFFORDABILITY AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY As Central Texas grows, Wilson has emphasized the importance of ensuring families and small businesses can afford to grow with it. Reducing the burden of property taxes remain central to that effort. He supports reining in rapidly rising home appraisals, arguing that meaningful relief requires addressing the appraisal process that drives tax bills higher.

Wilson has also backed efforts to reduce burdensome regulations on small businesses, which he describes as the heart of the Texas economy. On top of having passed the first meaningful property tax reforms focused on small businesses, his approach connects fewer regulatory costs with local job creation and relief from the rising expenses facing employers and consumers alike.

Energy and insurance costs are part of the same affordability challenge. Wilson supports expanding energy production to lower utility bills and prices at the pump, as well as curbing lawsuit abuse that he says contributes to higher health, home, and automobile insurance premiums. He also helped pass the constitutional amendment permanently prohibiting a state income tax in Texas.

As new industries reshape the region, Wilson has called for local data centers to be held accountable for their effects on surrounding communities.

For Wilson, attracting investment must go hand in hand with protecting taxpayers, managing costs, and ensuring economic growth improves residents’ quality of life.

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PEOPLE

by An n Ma rie Kenn on • p h o to s co urtesy Mi c h ae l Lucas

WHEN MOST PEOPLE RETIRE, THEY TAKE UP GOLF. MICHAEL LUCAS TOOK UP AN ENTIRE INDUSTRY.

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his Heritage Oaks resident has spent more than six decades building relationships in radio, entertainment, sales and live music. Today, those relationships fuel two growing ventures: Lucas Artists, which books performers for events of all kinds, and Music for Seniors USA, a nationwide service connecting professional entertainers with retirement and assisted living communities.

Ask Michael why he never retired, and he laughs. "Why would I retire? To do what?" he says. For him, even at 86, the answer was obvious. The music business had been calling him back for decades.

His story began in Texas radio during the 1960s, when local disc jockeys often knew the musicians who filled dance halls, clubs and community events. Bands regularly stopped by the station looking for help with promotion and bookings.

Before long, Michael found himself managing performers and helping them secure gigs.

'GOLF' BECAME A BOOKING AGENCY Over the years, his career took him through radio, advertising and automotive sales, but he never lost his connection to the entertainment world. When he retired in 2002, he enjoyed a little golf but he never found 'leisure time' to be quite as satisfying. When one of his old connections called and asked for help booking an Austin party band, that one band quickly became two. Then five. Then dozens.

Today, Lucas Artists books everything from dance bands and jazz groups to comedians, magicians, emcees, face painters and specialty entertainers. Corporate receptions, nonprofit galas, birthday parties, HOA events, weddings and community festivals all fall within the company's reach. "If I don't have exactly what you're looking for, I usually know where to find it," he says.

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PEOPLE THE MOST VALUABLE CONTACT LIST IN TOWN In an era when many people simply search online and hope for the best, Michael serves as a personal matchmaker between clients and performers. He learns what kind of event a client is planning, what atmosphere they want to create, and what budget they have available. Then he recommends entertainers who fit the occasion.

Just as importantly, he helps clients avoid disappointment. "We don't work with garage bands," he says. "We only work with professionals."

That emphasis on quality has become a hallmark of his business. Michael carefully vets performers and relies on entertainers who understand that success involves more than musical talent. Professionalism, reliability and audience engagement matter just as much as the songs themselves.

SONGS CAN REACH PLACES WORDS CAN'T Those same standards helped inspire Music for Seniors USA. The idea began almost accidentally when retirement communities began asking Michael for weekday performers.

What began as a handful of bookings soon revealed a significant need. Communities wanted dependable, professional entertainment, while musicians appreciated meaningful weekday work and the concept grew rapidly.

Today, Music for Seniors USA serves communities across Texas and in markets including Phoenix, Las Vegas, Florida, North Carolina and California. Lucas and his team continually recruit and evaluate performers who know how to connect with senior audiences.

The work has also produced some of his most memorable moments. He recalls visiting a memory-care community where a resident spent her days waiting in the lobby for her mother to come pick her up. Staff members explained that she had been a singer in her younger years. Later that evening, Michael watched her slowly make her way toward a live performance. As the music played, she moved to the front of the room, rose from her wheelchair and began dancing with the lead singer.

A caregiver told him it was the first time they had seen her stand and participate that way. Experiences like that remind him why music matters. "It stirs something that's still there," he says.

Yet even as Music for Seniors USA expands nationwide, Michael remains focused on the same principle that guided him throughout his career: relationships first. He still receives calls from former customers and colleagues he met decades ago. Those friendships, he says, are worth more than any business success.

"My son asked me one time how I sold so much," he says. "I told him I made a lot of friends. Your enemies won't buy from you."

At an age when many people are slowing down, Michael is still building networks, creating opportunities and helping people connect through entertainment.

And when the day finally comes to write the last chapter? He already knows what he wants to say.

"What a ride!"

One Call. Endless Possibilities.

Looking for a dance band for a wedding? A jazz trio for a cocktail reception? A comedian for a corporate retreat? A magician, emcee, face painter or specialty act for a community event?

Lucas Artists takes the guesswork out of entertainment booking by connecting clients with vetted, professional performers for events large and small.

Weddings • Corporate Events • Galas • Birthday Parties • HOA Gatherings • Fundraisers • Holiday Celebrations LucasArtistsPromotions.com • MusicForSeniorsUSA.com

Professional entertainment. Personal service. Decades of trusted relationships.

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CAMP BRITESIDE COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon • p h otos c ou rte s y Cody Hi rt

A Place for the Whole Family

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he owners of Camp Briteside—members of the Gold Bird Family investment group— believe a family restaurant should be a place where kids can be kids, parents can relax and everyone can enjoy being there together.

“It’s a little bit restaurant, a little bit playground, a little bit neighborhood hangout and a little bit backyard party,” says investor Cody Hirt. “We want parents leaving Camp Briteside saying, ‘That was actually fun,’ instead of just, ‘Well, the kids had fun.’”

While children have room to play, explore and burn off energy, parents can enjoy a good meal, cold beer or cocktail, and time with friends. Recently, the locally owned business has been making changes to ensure the restaurant is every bit as appealing as the play experience.

SOMETHING FOR THE GROWNUPS “We’ve learned a lot since opening, and most importantly, we’ve listened to our guests,” Cody says.

After hearing that parents wanted more options created for them, Camp Briteside began expanding its menu with more adult-focused choices. One of the most exciting additions is pizza— not simply as an easy children’s meal, but as something guests would visit specifically to enjoy.

“We wanted really good pizza—great crust, quality ingredients, and something you’d come to Camp Briteside specifically to eat, whether you have kids with you or not,” Cody says. “Family-friendly doesn’t have to mean kid food.”

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COME TOGETHER — ON YOUR OWN SCHEDULE Camp Briteside has also introduced a more flexible ordering process, particularly for large gatherings. Guests no longer need to wait for an entire party to arrive or coordinate one group order.

Each family can arrive separately, order food or another round when ready, and leave without waiting to split a check.

The model makes Camp Briteside an easy gathering place for birthday parties, sports teams, school groups, neighborhood get-togethers, company events, and family celebrations. Guests can find a spot, order pizzas for the table, grab a drink and let the kids play— without everyone having to follow the same schedule.

“Our goal isn’t to turn tables as quickly as possible,” Cody says. “We want people to feel comfortable staying awhile. That’s what Camp Briteside is built for.”

GROWING WITH GEORGETOWN The changes reflect what Cody has learned from local families: They aren’t simply looking for another place to take their children. They want places where they can genuinely spend time together and where adults can have as much fun as the kids.

“The people giving us feedback aren’t anonymous customers somewhere—they’re our neighbors and friends, and families we see around Georgetown every day,” he says. “We want them to know we’re listening.”

Guests can expect more food and drink ideas, adult-focused menu additions, seasonal specials, family events and surprises throughout the year as Camp Briteside continues to evolve.

“Bring the kids. Bring another family or bring five families,” Cody says. “We want Camp Briteside to be the kind of place where the kids ask to go and the parents are happy they did.”

Ultimately, Cody hopes Camp Briteside becomes more than another place to eat: “We’re trying to create one of those places your kids remember growing up in Georgetown.”

8701 RANCH ROAD 2338 GEORGETOWN SUN-THURS • 11AM-8PM FRI-SAT • 11AM- 10PM (512)-368-4644 AUSTIN@GOLDBIRDGTX.COM

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KIDS & EDUCATION

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon • p h otos c ou rte s y GI S D Com m u ni c a t i o ns

Strong Schools, Strong Community When people think about public schools, they often think about test scores, football games or graduation ceremonies. But behind every student success story is a district working to balance academic excellence with responsible financial stewardship.

THAT BALANCING ACT IS ON FULL DISPLAY IN GEORGETOWN ISD

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hile final state accountability results will not be released until later this month, preliminary data shows encouraging gains across the district. According to district leaders, every campus has demonstrated academic improvement, with some schools posting significant growth in student performance.

"The most important thing is that kids are learning," says Superintendent Dr. Devin Padavil. "Not only are they learning, but they're learning at a really high level."

Those results reflect years of work by teachers, principals and support staff who remain focused on student achievement. They also reflect a commitment by district leadership to make difficult financial decisions while protecting the classroom experience whenever possible.

BALANCING THE BUDGET That commitment recently led the Georgetown ISD Board of Trustees to adopt a balanced budget for the coming school year. In an era when more than half of Texas school districts are operating with deficits, district leaders view a balanced budget as an important sign of fiscal responsibility.

The challenge is that balancing the budget has become increasingly difficult.

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Like families across Central Texas, school districts face rising costs for insurance, healthcare, fuel, utilities and everyday operations. At the same time, state funding has not kept pace with inflation, creating financial pressure for districts throughout Texas.

Over the past several years, Georgetown ISD has streamlined operations and reduced expenses in areas that would have the least impact on students. Those efforts have helped maintain financial stability, but district leaders say they are approaching a point where additional cuts could begin affecting classrooms and student services.

SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE CLOSEST TO KIDS One area of particular concern is employee compensation.

"We've done everything we can to protect the classroom," Dr. Padavil says. "The next decisions become much more difficult because they begin to affect the student experience and the people who work closest with kids."

To address that challenge, the district is exploring options that could generate additional operating revenue, including the possibility of asking voters to consider adding some of the district's available "copper pennies" to the maintenance and operations tax rate. District officials say the additional

KIDS & EDUCATION

revenue would help support teacher and staff compensation while preserving the educational programs families have come to expect.

District leaders also emphasize that tax rates and tax bills are not always the same thing. Future revenue projections will depend on certified property values and any action ultimately taken by the Board of Trustees. As those discussions continue, the district's focus remains on maintaining strong academic outcomes while responsibly managing taxpayer dollars.

The conversation, however, extends beyond schools alone.

Even residents without children in Georgetown ISD have a stake in the district's success. Strong schools help attract families, employers and investment to a community. They also play an important role in supporting property values and

maintaining the quality of life that makes Georgetown such a desirable place to live. In other words, great schools are not simply an educational asset. They are a community asset.

INVESTING IN GEORGETOWN'S FUTURE As Georgetown continues to grow, district leaders say their commitment remains unchanged: support great teachers, provide exceptional opportunities for students and remain responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. Judging by the progress students are already making, that investment is producing results.

Editor's Note: Some information in this article may evolve over the course of the summer. Readers are encouraged to visit our website at GeorgetownView.com for the latest Georgetown ISD updates, including academic performance data, budget information, and future board action.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"

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THE CHISHOLM TRAIL & CATTLE DRIVES

by L i nda A. Th or nto n

t was the largest animal migration in human history. An estimated six to ten million cattle moved along the Chisholm Trail. Though the cattle drive only existed fewer than 20 years, its legacy is a testament to the spirit of the cowboy culture. Along the way, it earned Texas the number one status in beef cattle production in the United States.

IMAGE CREDIT: CAPITAL LAND & LIVESTOCK

The Chisholm Trail name first appeared in newsprint in the April 10, 1869 edition of the Georgetown, Texas' Watchman newspaper. The article stated that "the hostile Indians of the Plains have been permanently removed from the route known as the Chisholm Trail and drovers can now take the trail with security from molestation."

The Chisholm Trail was not a single, unbroken route but a network of pathways spread over a wide area that narrowed at river crossings. Jesse Chisholm originally established the wagon road to connect his trading posts. In time, it became known as the safest way through Indian Territory.

Nineteenth-century cattle drives were a rough-and-tumble business born of necessity. After the Civil War, Texas had an oversupply of cattle valued at only $2–5 per head. In the beefstarved North, the same cattle could sell for $40.

Spanning almost 1,000 miles, the Chisholm Trail began in southern Texas and traveled through Oklahoma to the Pacific railroad’s new station in Abilene, Kansas, where the cattle could be transported by rail.

WANTED: ADVENTUROUS TYPES FOR CATTLE DRIVE The journey took two to three months, with herds traveling approximately 15 miles per day. From the trail boss, cook, and drovers to the least experienced wranglers—sometimes as young as 12—an experienced crew of 12 could manage 2,000– 3,000 cattle.

Threats included floods, difficult river crossings, droughts, lightning-induced stampedes, and thirsty animals becoming crazed at the smell of water.

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COWBOYS RIDE THEIR WAY INTO AMERICAN CULTURE Vaqueros—from the Spanish word “vaca” for cow—were the original drovers. United by their skill and rugged lives, white, Black, and Mexican vaqueros helped define what would become the Texas cowboy.

The cowboys of yesteryear might be surprised to see their functional workday gear—wide-brimmed hats, waist overalls, bandannas, chaps, boots, and spurs—become fashion statements.

The chuck wagon, a horse-drawn mobile kitchen designed for cattle drives, was a precursor to today’s food truck. Its hearty meals are still celebrated at cook-off competitions featuring authentic tools and recipes.

America has celebrated the rugged, independent spirit of the West through **literature, art, music, and film**. Beginning with “Buffalo Bill” Cody’s Wild West shows in the late 1800s, the nation romanticized cowboy culture and frontier legends. Hollywood Westerns starring John Wayne and Roy Rogers, television favorites such as “Rawhide,” and countless songs and stories transformed the working cattle hand into an enduring American hero.

WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"

RISE AND DEMISE OF CATTLE DRIVES While cowboys faced constant danger on the trail, they had little way of knowing the cattle drives’ lasting economic impact. Banks, railroads, and shipping companies expanded to meet the industry’s demands, while profits helped establish legendary operations such as King Ranch. Along the trails, bustling “cow towns” provided lodging, supplies, and markets for drovers and ranchers.

Saddle makers, blacksmiths, and other skilled trades flourished alongside the ranching economy. As the industry matured, ranchers invested in improved breeding, fencing, and reliable water sources, laying the foundation for a more efficient and sustainable cattle industry.

By the 1890s, the era of great cattle drives was drawing to a close. Barbed wire allowed ranchers to fence their land inexpensively, closing trails that had carried millions of Longhorns north. Expanding railroads reached deeper into Texas, allowing cattle to be shipped from local

railheads rather than driven hundreds of miles to Kansas. Outbreaks of Texas Fever—a tick-borne disease that threatened northern herds—also led many states to quarantine Texas cattle. Together, these developments made long cattle drives impractical, ending one of the most iconic chapters in American history.

WHAT DRIVES TODAY’S CATTLE MARKET? While the days of long cattle drives have passed, the spirit of the Chisholm Trail lives on at Capitol Land & Livestock in nearby Schwertner. General Manager Tom Madden says the business still faces many of the same challenges as the trail drivers of old—mud, dust, harsh weather, and the unpredictable nature of livestock. The biggest difference, he notes with a smile, is that today’s cowboys load cattle onto 18-wheelers instead of driving them north on horseback.

Recognized as one of the nation’s largest cattle dealers, Capitol Land &

Livestock employs more cowboys than any other operation in Central Texas. They continue to work more than 20,000 acres, relying on many of the same horsemanship and cattle-handling skills their predecessors used more than 150 years ago.

In addition to buying and marketing cattle, the company offers specialized services for ranchers, including a unique weaning program that allows freshly weaned calves to transition from their mothers’ milk to feed before being shipped. The program reduces stress while preparing the animals for the next stage of production.

For President and CEO Jim Schwertner, the connection to the Chisholm Trail is deeply personal. His great-grandfather, Adolph Schwertner, rode the trail during the great cattle-drive era. It’s unlikely he could have imagined those rugged journeys would one day evolve into a thriving cattle enterprise—or help establish Texas cowboy culture as one of the most recognizable symbols of the American West.

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ASK A PRO • NATURAL WONDERS Inner Space Cavern One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round.

InnerSpaceCavern.com • 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown

KARST, AQUIFERS, AND RECHARGE The Edwards Aquifer is huge—the surface area above the aquifer covers about 3,600 square miles.

Aquifers provide many people with drinking water, but also provide water for industrial and agricultural uses.

WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? In Hill Country, we hear a lot about aquifers and recharge, and occasionally karst. What do these terms mean, how do they relate to each other, and why are they important?

Karst refers to the landscape characterized by the dissolution of soluble rocks (e.g., limestone, dolomite, or gypsum) by slightly acidic water. Some features of karst landscapes include sinking streams, springs, sinkholes, and caves. The process that forms these begins with rainwater. Rainwater picks up small amounts of CO2 from the air, and even more from decaying plant and animal matter in the soil, becoming carbonic acid. This weak acid travels through the soil, then through cracks and pores in the bedrock, slowly dissolving the rock, while making the cracks and pores larger. This process continues for thousands of years.

As the water continues downward, it reaches an area where all the pores, cracks, and other spaces are full of water. Think about digging a hole in the sand at the beach. Dig far enough and the hole will partially fill with water. The upper surface is called the water table (at the beach, this would be sea level) and the area beneath the water table is the aquifer.

An aquifer is a natural reservoir of underground water held within porous rock that can deliver water in usable quantities. In other words, you can dig a well and pump water out of it. In karst areas, large aquifers can form.

The Edwards Aquifer, named after the Edwards rock formation, is the source of water in our area. These rocks formed more than 100 million years ago when Central Texas was covered by a shallow sea. Limestone formed in this shallow sea from the accumulation of shells and skeletons of marine animals, which were compacted and cemented together over time. The main mineral in limestone is calcite (calcium carbonate), which dissolves in carbonic acid. This created an enormous area underground for water storage.

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Aquifers have contributing, recharge and artesian zones. The contributing zone of the Edwards Aquifer is mostly on the Edwards Plateau and Hill Country, where surface water runoff flows downhill to recharge (refill) the aquifer. The recharge zone is where the surface water sinks into the ground and enters the aquifer.

Nationally, aquifers provide drinking water for almost half the population and more than 60 percent of farmland irrigation. Over the last 50 years, the amount of groundwater withdrawals has tripled.

When groundwater is taken faster than it can be replenished (recharged) by rainwater, the water table is lowered and decreases the amount of water available for use. Over time, wells have to be dug deeper in order to reach the water table.

The gradual land surface subsides when the spaces previously occupied by water become filled by downward movement of sediments.

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J U N E 202 6

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GIVE BIRDS A HEALTHY PLACE

W

hen Texas temperatures soar and rain becomes scarce, backyard bird baths become more than decorative garden features. They provide essential drinking and bathing water when natural sources may be drying up.

“Bird baths can be even more important than feeders during extreme heat,” says Christina Darlington, owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Georgetown.

Birds often have abundant natural food during late summer and early fall, when plants go to seed, but clean water can be much harder to find.

Birds also use water to maintain healthy, flight-worthy feathers. Bathing helps them preen, a process in which they clean their feathers and distribute protective oils. Christina's bluebirds are especially enthusiastic visitors.

“They take a bath every day when it gets really hot,” she says. “Sometimes I’ll have 10 bluebirds in there having a pool party.”

To keep that party safe, refill the bird bath at least once a day during extreme heat, when water disappears quickly through evaporation. Replace dirty water promptly, and thoroughly clean the basin approximately every five days—or as soon as algae appears.

to Cool Off

Routine Cleaning Empty the bath and scrub it with a brush or scouring pad reserved for that purpose.

Stubborn algae or mold may require a small amount of diluted bleach.

Hard-water deposits can be treated separately with vinegar.

Never combine bleach and vinegar, and always rinse the bath extremely well before refilling it.

Place the bath in shade when possible to keep the water cooler and slow algae growth.

Christina discourages metal baths in sunny areas because they can become very hot. Stone and granite also retain heat, while lightweight plastic basins are generally easier to move and clean.

Moving water offers additional benefits. A bubbler, dripper, or mister can help birds notice the water and discourage mosquitoes, which prefer still water for laying eggs. Hummingbirds rarely use conventional bird baths, but they may fly through a mister or splash in gently bubbling or dripping water.

If standing water is unavoidable, refresh it frequently and watch for mosquito larvae. Use only mosquito-control products specifically labeled as safe for bird baths and follow the directions carefully.

Finally, consider predators when choosing a location. An elevated bath can help protect birds from roaming cats, while nearby shrubs or trees offer a quick escape route.

Also, she advises, keep the bath where you can see it. You’ll be more likely to notice when it needs attention and you won’t miss the pool party.

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POPPY TALKS

SEEKING COUNSEL

I

t was 99 degrees outside when I first lit my fire pit, because apparently my ability to make sensible decisions doesn't account for weather.

Night after night this summer I sat beside an open flame, dripping with sweat and drinking water from a jug large enough to prepare me for a medical procedure. Anyone looking over the fence would have been justified in calling for a wellness check... but I have a termite metropolis to burn.

We accumulated several cords of wood from eight trees we had to have cut down but didn’t have enough occasion to burn it. Hubby never got the chance to split the trunk pieces, so they have been decaying and composting for a while. When I got the bill to install a chemical border wall to protect the house from termites now living in my dirt, burning the logs was no longer recreation — it was pest control, home maintenance, and revenge.

Better yet, it allowed me to do absolutely nothing while still being productive; the Holy Grail of adulting. I sit quietly with a book and watch damaged logs disappear while crossing something off my mental to-do list. The summer light stays late enough for me to read until nearly 9pm, the backyard is pretty quiet, and for a little while, nobody needs anything from me.

There are still wobbly car brakes and termites and a damaged roof and contractors and insurance companies and people who would very much like me to sign something today because this special price is only available while their truck is in my driveway. More reasons to miss Hubby.

He was wonderfully useful in these situations. I could present whatever problem had just landed on my desk, along with the proposed solution and

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its alarming price tag, and he would generally have an answer before I finished explaining it. Sometimes it was well-pondered legal analysis and sometimes it was a quick, “That's stupid. We're not paying for that” and both were extremely helpful.

I miss having someone right there who could cut through the noise and tell me what mattered. So somewhere between feeding another termite condo to the fire and reading my way through a stack of justice with competence novels, I realized I have need of a replacement advisory board: Sherlock Holmes, Jack Reacher, and Alex Cross.

Sherlock, of course, is in charge of evidence. He would take one look at the rate of decay in my tree stumps, rub some sawdust between his fingers and announce that three of the eight trees never needed to come down in the first place.

“The arborist knew that, of course.”

“He said they were dying.”

“Yes. I imagine he did. You paid by the tree?” “…yes.” “Thought so.” Then he would glance at the termite damage and explain it occurred after the trees were cut and was entirely preventable, at which point Watson escorts him from my property for his own safety.

Reacher handles car salesmen and contractors. As a 6'5" former Army policeman who travels with no luggage, owns practically nothing, and has a particular dislike of those who prey on people they think won't fight back, I feel confident I would only have to say, “They want how much for the roof?”

Reacher would look at the estimate, stare at the contractor, and that would pretty much be the end of that.

Finally, I have Alex Cross, James Patterson's detective and forensic psychologist who specializes in uncovering dirty secrets and occasionally elbow-smashing people trying to keep them. I am assigning him the substandard and overpriced bathroom remodel. This may not be the traditional way to manage a household, but I see very few drawbacks.

So, while I once had a resident judge to consult about life's assorted nonsense, I've since assembled a replacement advisory board consisting of a Victorian cocaine enthusiast, a homeless former military policeman, and a detective with family issues.

Hubby would probably find this completely reasonable, although he would likely also point out none of them actually have a law license. Then he'd look at whatever estimate was sitting on the kitchen counter and say, “That's stupid. We're not paying for that.” And, really, that's the only voice I'm trying to channel.

Meanwhile, the woodpile is getting smaller as daylight saving time comes to an end. Texas will finally stop trying to cook me, and sitting beside a fire will cease to be evidence of mental instability.

As It turns out, I rather like sitting quietly while solving problems. I just have to outsource some of the thinking to fictional people. Sherlock can size up the mechanics' levels of honesty, Reacher can intimidate the contractors, and Alex can terminate the bathroom remodel.

And even though I only saved the house from pests, and not the whole planet from destruction, I'll celebrate like Project Hail Mary's much more adorable fictional geniuses, Grace and Rocky, and wobble around the fire pit, hollering: “AMAZE! AMAZE! AMAZE!”

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P. O. B ox 2 0 3 | Ja r re ll, TX 76537