Georgetown View Magazine • June 2020

EXCLUSIVE: Judge Bill Gravell on 100 Days of COVID Page 28

Stay Home? No Problem!

Create A Backyard Paradise Omnia Outdoors Page 12

How Did I Not Know That?

The Best Web & Internet Hacks You Never Knew Page 18

george t own v i ew WE BUILD COMMUNITY

JUNE 2020

CLASS OF 2020

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104 Copper Lane Jarrell 512-746-2333 105 Western Sky Trail Jarrell 512-598-3900 4802 Moreland Dr. Georgetown 512-868-8300

content s FEATURES 8 CLASS OF 2020 The Year No One Will Forget 28 SPECIAL SECTION 100 DAYS OF COVID Straight Talk From County Judge Bill Gravell 38 THE THINGS THAT MAKE TEXAS “TEXAS” Everything’s Bigger!

FAVORITES 14 THE NEW NORMAL Made in the USA 18 ASK THE EXPERT Internet & Web Hacks 22 HEALTHY HABITS New Ways to “Work-In” 25 HOME & GARDEN Natural Ways to Get Rid of Pests 42 FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Fascinating Folks

38 THE MOST TEXAS-Y THINGS ABOUT TEXAS EVERYTHING is bigger...

Stars on the highway ramps, Southfork, “the bigger your hair, the closer to God”, and more. A little history and some of the biggest things in our favorite state.

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Celebrating the uniqueness of the Class of 2020 at Georgetown’s three high schools... and more.

59 POPPY TALKS Why I love Sheldon Cooper

ON THE COVER

62 SAVE THE PLANET Stop Throwing Food Away 68 FOOD Fresh Picks for June 71 PARTING SHOT Parking Lot Worship

Georgetown and East View High School seniors Kaylin Vrabel, Maverick Tomaszewski, Jacky Meixsell and Taylor Wood celebrate their commencement at the GISD sports complex.

Graduations took place May 29-31.

Photo by Rudy Ximenez

46 WORTH THE DRIVE Enchanted Rock 50 FIVE QUESTIONS Pastor Charlie Turner

Visit our Facebook page for follow-ups to these stories, outtakes & hints to those upcoming...

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georgetown view Published by Optimus Media Group, LLC

PUBLISHER

Cathy Payne

cathy@georgetownview.com Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing. She found her voice and fulfilment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience.

Along with serving as the publisher of the Georgetown View, Cathy oversees multiple news magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.

EDITOR Ann Marie Ludlow Kennon AnnMarie@georgetownview.com

While not a native of Texas, Ann Marie is at home here. With a quarter-century of writing, reporting and marketing behind her, she not only writes about Georgetown, she dove into community service almost as soon as she moved here. Currently, she is on the board of the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center and Carver Elementary PTA, and a member of several support organizations.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Ann Marie Kennon • Zion Pistole • Elysia Davis CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David Valdez • Rudy Ximenez CONSULTANT Ben Daniel DISTRIBUTION Tom Higgs IT/WEBMASTER Jesse Payne

ADVERTISING Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-598-3500 ads@georgetownview.com

Georgetown View is an Optimus Media Group, LLC publication.

Copyright © 2020 All rights reserved. Georgetown View is published monthly and individually mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in Georgetown, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to View Magazine, P.O. Box 203, Jarrell, TX 76537.

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ANN MARIE KENNON EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome, Summer!

I know... it’s been hot for weeks now, but it’s officially summer this month. Although I must say, the weather is just one more thing no one seems to really be able to nail down. As we navigate our way back to “opening back up”, it seems things are still changing, and the questions continue. My favorite... do I have to go back to sitting in waiting rooms or can I just keep Zooming my doctors?

On the plus side, I was honored to have the chance to sit with County Judge Bill Gravell, for what had to have been an unusual break in his official duties. We dedicated a special section to his historic perspectives on the first 100 days of pandemic response and management. Whatever your feelings on leadership or our elected officials, there is something noble about anyone willing to sit in those chairs, make profoundly impactful decisions, and... do it in a hurry.

While the commencements from high school down to Pre-K were not as expected, I envy the seniors of 2020 just a little for the just-as-historic experience this has provided for their lifetimes.

Not much is unique about the class of 1986, outside my personal memories about it—however happy.

But 2020... everyone will remember you forever!

We have a new feature this month; “The New Normal.”

We hope to highlight some of the changes that, while they may have come about rather spontaneously, have turned out to be good things that will make people say, “Why didn’t we do this before?”

P.S. - Happy Father’s Day to all you dads, stepdads, granddads, mentors, pastors, and good men everywhere!

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six p ack of seniors

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

2020: So Much Class!

D

ear Seniors,

Every graduation class is unique, and something its students remember for their whole lives. This year, we must thank you, Class of 2020, for sharing your special moment with all of us. While you seniors suffered the disappointments of missed athletic seasons, college visits, proms, time with friends, and senior trips, we are all grateful to you for allowing us to find a unique and sweeping unity in your eventual celebrations.

Everyone in Georgetown, and the nation, has been of one mind in our sympathy for you at this moment, which you have worked so hard for, and cannot be repeated. As a group, the Class of 2020 was singled out, long ago in this crisis, for our collective concern and collaborative creativity. While vacations, gatherings, and even weddings can be rescheduled, we are all so happy that our teachers, leaders, and communities worked so purposefully to make this singular event as special as possible for you.

After months alone in our homes, it was a blessing to have a parade, adoptions, virtual celebrations, and even fireworks—in your honor—but for everyone to enjoy.

We, the citizens of the 2020 world, thank you for a reason, and the opportunity to celebrate with you; not just your achievements and future plans, but a conspicuous acknowledgment that we are all still here, and we are together. With so little to celebrate, thank you for giving us one beautiful thing we can all agree on and savor for whatever might come ahead.

At the same time, not every class will go down in the history books, nor will most of us be able to tell our grandchildren what it was like to be in a generation whose childhood was inexplicably bookended by national crises like we’d never seen before. Your graduation will be remembered by everyone in the world, for the rest of all of our lives.

Leave it to a principal (next page) to say it best...but meanwhile, all our gratitude, love, and wishes for success!

Sincerely, Everyone Else

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graduation 2020

East View seniors lovingly dissented, however briefly, from the distancing guidelines to take up arms, literally.

They embraced each other across the aisles to sing their Alma mater and bring the ceremony to a close.

”Consider the classes of 1939, 1949, 1959, and 1969.

Some of those individuals likely missed their graduations as well. Millions of Americans even left home in the middle of their senior year, often by the choice of their nation.

But the senior classes in those time periods were ordinary people like us, who went on to do extraordinary things.

The class of 1939 helped end the Holocaust and defeat the Nazis. The class of 1949, 1959, and 1969 pushed back Communism, fought for civil rights and put a man on the Moon. While every generation has made significant contributions to our nation and our world, these generations were dramatically impacted by events around their graduation days, then went on to dramatically changed the course of human history. Yes, the graduating class of 2020 may have missed prom and other things, but they will grow from the impact this will have on them. They will be our next ‘Greatest Generation’.”

THIS IS UNLIKE ANY PARADE WE HAVE. OUR STROLL AND POPPYFEST HAVE LARGER CROWDS, BUT THIS IS ENTIRELY FOR US. E VERYONE AT THIS PARADE LIVES IN GEORGE TOWN, AND WE ARE ALL HERE TO SEE PEOPLE WE LOVE. ~ ELIZABE TH MCFARLAND

~ Rob Dyer, Richarte High School

NEW TRADITIONS Graduation weekend began with one of the largest parades Georgetown has ever seen. More than 250 cars registered for the Senior parade, and many more showed up at 8am to participate in the (appropriately spaced) parking lot party that preceded the drive. Students drove themselves, or were chauffeured in everything from vintage muscle cars to a stretch limousine, with many trucks, jeeps, and convertibles rounding out the view.

Our School Board Trustees (below) were at the courthouse to greet and cheer for the students, and Elizabeth McFarland summed up the morning perfectly;

Elizabeth says she is already working on her Jeep design for when her own Class of 2021 student matriculates. But, no telling if the parade will continue for future seniors. Superintendent Dr. Fred Brent—front and center to cheer for the kids—says he has already been asked MANY times if the ISD will repeat what looked to be a great success.

The trustees weren’t the only ones working hard to make things special. From Spring Break to the end of school, teachers, principals, and administrators managed to do their regular jobs, while preparing and planning for eventualities, many of which changed by the minute.

Richarte principal Rob Dyer says, “All the principals had to come in, throw everything on the table, and come up with a plan for education and graduation at the same time. Graduation is a lot of planning in a normal year, and it was more difficult that we couldn’t be together. With all three high schools graduating over one weekend, even the smallest details were unknown; e.g., where do  J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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graduation 2020 THERE’S NO WAY TO KNOW WHAT THINGS WILL LOOK LIKE WHEN THIS CLASS IS 40 YEARS OLD, BUT WE CAN’T EVEN IMAGINE YET WHAT THEY ARE GOING TO DO WHEN THEY GET THERE. ~ PRINCIPAL ROB DYER

• Richarte Honor graduate, Rachel Carlile • 2020 Richarte High School Salutatorian, Ronald Hall • Sunset over East View Commencement

you get what you need if everything is closed? But we did it. For instance, all the local florists were unavailable, but our East View students created the arrangements, and they look beautiful.”

As an added bonus to the new guidelines, 2020 marks the first year that Richarte High School was able to hold graduation in the stadium...and the weather and the sunset were perfect.

Superintendent Dr. Fred Brent may well have been speaking for everyone present when he addressed the assembly; “I just want to hug each one of you because I haven’t seen any students for months!”

ONE GRADUATE’S STORY Rachel Carlile (above, left) isn’t even a senior, but she is the #5 graduate in her class, and a quintessential example of the mix of adaptability and compassion that distinguishes her peers.

This fearless 16-year-old graduated from Richarte, and is already prepared and packed for her departure date in August. She also has a plan far beyond even that. Like many young people, this year cost her the experience of her first job, which closed its doors on her first day of

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work, but she is ready to go again as soon as her summer courses begin.

Rachel has committed to getting her CNA certification over the summer, then will head to Angelo State and, later, the University of Texas to study botany. After college she wants to go into the Air Force. “I always did want to help people, but I also am the person who can work with rough stuff every day and keep going.”

In spite of everything 2020 did to her, her life plan is still rock solid. “I want to put in my 20 years in the military and take my pension, so I can go on to be a botanist and an activist without being concerned about making a living. I want to be the expert who walks into a courtroom or U.N. meeting and tells people how and which things they need to change.”

Rob Dyer says Rachel is typical of Richarte students, as well as most kids in her generation. “Our programs are not just apples to apples, but more like apples to grasshoppers. These kids are very detailed and have thought things out. Growing up in a post-9/11 world, having always had the Internet, and a sense of being connected, even though they may have missed a milestone or a rite of passage, I think these kids will make great changes.

They will be the ones asking, ‘Why are we still doing things this way?’”

OVERHEARD AT EAST VIEW GRADUATION (FOR PROBABLY A MILE OR MORE): “YOU DID IT MAN, DADDY LOVES YOU!”

Photo by Rudy Ximenez

Rachel agrees; “I think kids will take these lessons into adulthood. We have to learn from 2020, be careful with our guidelines and rules, because there will always be people who want to control the situation. Our generation has seen how the world has handled this situation and I feel like we will be the ones to come up with medical or political advances that will make countries talk to each other more, be more transparent, and be willing to hear what people have to say.

We have seen the clear canals in Venice, and the mountains appearing over India. We’ve seen what’s possible from this unexpected event, so let’s do that on purpose in the future.”

CLASS OF 2024 SHARES THE FUN On May 12, Georgetown’s Middle School students had a parade to celebrate being “high school bound!”

Hundreds of cars, carrying rising Freshmen, had a police escort southbound on Austin Avenue to the Downtown Square.

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advertorial

All Things Outdoors

O

utdoor living...

With great weather and beautiful spaces, it’s practically compulsory to enjoy outdoor living in Texas. With that in mind, Omnia Outdoors, Georgetown’s newest pool builder, should be your next thought.

Owner Jason Daugherty and his fiancé Kate King live in Georgetown and, together, provide expert design, construction, and customer experience. As a one-stop shop for the backyard you thought was only in your imagination, they should also be your next phone call.

Omnia Outdoors is a turnkey builder, not just for pools, but for everything that comes to mind when you want to relax or entertain in your own space. Jason says, “Pools create a wonderful lifestyle. But, with Omnia, you can also have patio structures, outdoor kitchens, concrete, lighting, professional landscape design, and construction that is exclusive to you and your family.”

ONE-STOP SHOP What makes Omnia Outdoors unique in the outdoor industry is the customer experience. They handle every customer need for the entirety of the project—building permits and breaking ground to finished sod, irrigation, and the first splash.

Jason says, “We deal with our clients one-on-one, start to finish, so they don’t have to be the general contractor for their own project. Dealing with one person for the life-

cycle of the project means we have a relationship, which makes customers more comfortable that everything is being handled. When we build a pool, we don’t just clean up and leave. The job is not complete until your vision for the whole environment is complete.”

ENJOYING THE SPACE Omnia is committed to your personal outdoor environment, and they are excited to open their new headquarters on the Downtown Square. “Most people spend their recreation time on their porch or in the backyard. It’s the place you want to be with friends and enjoy family time.

Because of that, we are looking forward to bringing that feeling to our new office on the Square. Our new space will be nostalgic and old world, to make you feel at home while you’re dreaming about your own.”

VISIONARY Jason and his construction manager, Brian Mobley, have 15 years experience in landscape design and pool construction and they believe swimming pools are an extension of that. Much of their work has been done in high-end neighborhoods from Dallas and Austin to San Antonio, but Jason says he was always drawn to Georgetown because of its community; “Kate is from this area and we really wanted our family and our business to be part of it.” He adds, “Landscape design is where we started, so we create from that perspective, with the goal of an ideal environment.”

It has been a great experience working with Jason and his team at Omnia Outdoors.

When Jason and Brian began work on our project, it was evident Omnia is in a league of its own, and we knew we had made the right choice. Jason’s talent for design is exceptional, which set them apart from others. Their overall professionalism and care is very welcoming and easy to work with! ~ The Reed Family, Cedar Park The process might merely begin with a doodle on a napkin, but Omnia uses the latest in 3-D rendering and CAD programs (below, left) to show you exactly what your finished sanctuary will look like, including virtual walkarounds, sun position, and fly-by videos.

GETTING STARTED Jason says most people start thinking about a pool when the weather gets warmer, but there is really no off season for builds. Bill Paetznick, owner of 2020 Market Scratch Kitchen & Bar in Georgetown, is already loving his new outdoors; “I am beyond amazed and impressed with the workmanship. They built this for me in just 80 days, including landscaping. Omnia is great guys, a great company, and I highly recommend them.”

JASON is a graduate of Texas Tech and has been an expert landscape designer and pool designer for more than 15 years. As a pool builder, he is pleased to have added that element to the fabric of his designs, to complement and enhance your lifestyle.

Kate says, “Many buyers begin in the winter, but even starting in June, you may still have time for a swim this season. We also do beautiful dipping pools and in-ground spas for year-round enjoyment. Then again, summer months are a good time to plan an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, or sport courts. We make it all happen.”

Fortunately, beautiful oases are not just for your bucket list. Omnia Outdoors will work on any size project and tailor to any budget. “We understand how you want to live, entertain, and what is important to your family. Your patio, pool, and yard will reflect the flow from your inspiration, through one creative mind, coming together for a relaxing and refreshing experience.”

Bringing to life the pool of your dreams is what we do!

KATE grew up in Walburg and locals may recognize her from her many years of service at the Walburg Restaurant. She also has over ten years experience in construction management support. Her skill set provides for a seamless process for all of Omnia’s permitting and HOA requirements, which is a great asset to Omnia customers’ experience.

BRIAN MOBLEY is a second-generation pool builder. His father, before him, made a 40+ year career building pools. Growing up in the industry, at an early age, Brian took an interest in the business. Over the last 20 years, he has been involved in all aspects of the pool experience, from sales and design to construction management—his forte.

Brian enjoys bringing the entire vision of each project to life, through every phase of construction to filling up your pool and jumping in for the first time!

ON THE SQUARE • 714 S. AUSTIN AVE #201 • 512-240-4645 OmniaOutdoors.com

OmniaOutdoors

@OmniaOutdoors

MOST PEOPLE LIVE AND ENTERTAIN OUTSIDE...

INSIDE IS FOR SLEEPING. Jason Daugherty

the new normal

Greta Bauer • greta@georgetownview.com

Buy American and Texan

F

or some time, surveys have indicated many people prefer to pay lower prices than buy American.

For the past few months, however, trends indicate that opinion is changing. And, although sales of U.S. flags are at a new high since 2001, this new trend is not just about patriotism.

BENEFITS TO THE U.S. JOBS Buying American provides jobs for thousands of people, across generations, who live and work in the same cities. Those cities flourish because manufacturing generates more economic activity than any other sector; for every $1 spent in U.S. manufacturing, another $1.89 is added to the economy*.

INDEPENDENCE When we produce our own goods, we are not obligated to enter into trade agreements, butas a leader in any industry, when we do engage, our negotiating position is stronger. This is also true in diplomatic circles; being productindependent means we are not obligated to compromise politically with countries with whom we have no need to trade.

BENEFITS TO YOU QUALITY You already know you get what you pay for. While price tags may often be higher for domestic products, the cost per use is actually often lower—the made in USA quality will last longer than a foreign-made alternate. “Made in the USA” speaks of quality, craftsmanship, and superior products.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR There are actually three parts to buying American; who owns the company, where the materials come from, and who assembled the final product. You may have to do a little research to determine the life cycle of your purchase.

Be on the lookout for the way products are labeled. “Made in the USA” and “Assembled in the USA” assume different things. Some businesses use the “assembled” label with the flag, but that could mean the materials and manufacturing was sourced elsewhere. Some foreign-based companies include a USA flag sticker to influence buyers to pay more for an inferior product, so it is important to look for the words. Also note “Made in America” means the product may be from Mexico or Canada (e.g., Saltine Crackers); only “Made in USA” means it was made here at home.

IN THE MARKET A product’s origin may not be so easy when you’re not in a store and able to check labels. Below are some familiar companies that source and manufacture in the United States. Plus, when you visit Amazon, start on the “Made in the USA” page.** Weber • American Plastic • KitchenAid • Fiesta • Crayola • Pepperidge Farm • New Balance • Burt’s Bees • Zippo • Wilson • Benjamin Moore Paint • Pyrex • L.L. Bean • Smith & Wesson • Merle Norman • Hallmark • Gorilla (glue) • Channelock For bonus points, you can help maintain Texas’ status as the #1 exporting state in the U.S. by purchasing products produced or manufactured here...

Tyson (meat) • Bayer • Emerson Electric • Blue Bell • Bimbo Bakeries • Igloo • Frito-Lay • H-E-B • Owens Corning • 3M • Goodyear • Mary Kay * T X A s s n o f M a nufa c turer s

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* * S ee o ur web s i te f o r l ink

ask the expert

Internet and Web Hacks GOOGLE OPERATORS

A

ndrew Allen is an Enterprise Security Executive at Microsoft. He has been an expert in the security space, UX (user experience), and clever hacks since 2004. No, we’re not advocating actual hacking of anything. Below is a short list of a few tips and tricks that might save you keystrokes or time while working or playing on the ‘net.

While watching a YouTube video, press the SPACE bar to run the video at half-speed (toggling between pause/play quickly).

When browsing the Internet, press CTRL-L or -L to jump the cursor to, and highlight the URL bar to type in a new site name.

Many websites allow a certain number of free views per day/month. When you reach the limit, you are required to create an account or pay a membership fee. These sites are saving your cookies, so they know how many times you’ve visited. If you browse incognito (Private) mode, they don’t save your cookies. The easiest way to open an Incognito tab is Ctrl-Shift-N (PC) or -Shift-N (Mac).

In MS-Outlook, if you want to stop email messages from a group or thread, right-click on the message in your Inbox list, scroll down, and click “Ignore”. To do the same in a Gmail account, click the three dots on the message toolbar and select MUTE.

*

When you can’t remember the words in a phrase or a song, Google what you know and include a * in the search bar to create a wildcard search for the missing parts.

“May the * be with you”

— Put a dash before a word that you want excluded from your search.

E.g., you want to know about the ship, not the movie...

Titanic - DiCaprio

~ Use a tilde to indicate you want a second word to be similar to many.

E.g., look for websites showing inexpensive trips without typing “cheap, low-cost, economy, etc.”

If you are using a device with a Chrome browser and lose your Internet connection, your screen will display a message and a cute little dinosaur. Tap on the dinosaur to start a Mario-style game that will at least keep you from being bored.

Cancun ~ cheap

intitle: Search only in the page’s title for a word or phrase. intitle:Elon Musk Texas

Tired of *scrolling* through Facebook, or other miles-long web pages, with your mouse? Press the spacebar to move down a page...

Shift-Spacebar to move back up.

In an open text field, on most apps, press CMD+CTRL+spacebar to bring up all the emoji characters in a Mac window. In Windows10 go to task bar > toolbar > touch keyboard, and choose the “smiley” key (which will appear in the OPT key spot).

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healthy habits

Greta Bauer • greta@georgetownview.com

New Ways to Work-“In”

I

t won’t surprise you that home exercise equipment makers have enjoyed a sizable spike in sales, and commercial gyms have increased streaming memberships since March of this year. Watching live classes or working out virtually with other people is another “new normal” while people are unable to get to the gym, or even go outside.

But, exercise at home does not have to mean expensive smart-bikes, wi-fi-enabled treadmills, or high-priced video training.

A quick web search for “virtual workouts” will list everything from Seniors to Zoom classes. As a virtual student, you are not limited to a geographic area and can “join” a gym anywhere.

Planet Fitness, for instance, is offering free classes at 6pm daily on Facebook (PlanetFitness). Fit4Mom in Georgetown has also gone virtual with online workouts and playgroups to keep everyone active at home (GeorgetownFit4Mom.com).

Resistance bands help make bodyweight moves harder or provide resistance for specific exercises like curls and triceps extensions. GetAgeFit owner Theo Thurston teaches that your body does not need weights to change; but resistance and time. “When machines, dumbbells, and barbells are not available, your body weight can be used to create an amazingly effective workout.”

If working out alone, you’ll want to moderate your efforts carefully since there is no instructor with you to help with injury or incident. As always, check with your health care provider before starting any new regimens.

You can also find flexibility exercises using yoga balls to volleyballs, and be sure to visit ExRx.net for ideas and proper techniques. And while sheltering in place, you can still get your cardio in by walking or jogging by yourself in your neighborhood. Even one mile, two to three times each week, will provide multiple physical and mental health benefits, as well as reduce your risks for some health problems.

IDEAS FOR SMALL SPACES

SIMPLE SUGGESTIONS

First, dedicate some time at least three days a week to focus on your physical fitness. To start, any boxer will agree, you can get a good aerobic workout with a jump rope; single-footed, hopping from side to side, running, big jumps, double-unders, or swinging the rope in reverse. Without the rope, you can do squats or squat jumps, lunge steps; and various animal walks (crab, dog, ape) to get your heart rate up while using myriad muscle groups.

Bodyweight Squat Bent Over Ys/Ts (slow bend at waist, arms out to side) Reverse Lunge Plank Jumping Jacks Slow Mountain Climbers (pushup position, alternate bending knees as if climbing) Shrimp Squat (hold one foot behind your back, squat slowly on the other leg; extend arm for balance) Bear Crawl (walk on hands and toes)

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home & garden

Greta Bauer • greta@georgetownview.com

Get Rid of Pests Naturally

T

here are more than 200 million bugs for every human on the planet*. Most Texans already know that, while also repelling the sinuses of many a Texan, cedar is a great deterrent for uninvited guests in your home. Here are a few more suggestions to avoid bugs, as well as unwelcome harsh chemicals.

ALREADY IN THE PANTRY CREAM OF TARTAR When you notice a column of ants winding around your walls or floors, reach for cream of tartar. It is an acidic salt that builds bulk in foods, but is also a powerful ant repellent. Sprinkle a line of cream of tartar to make a barrier where ants typically enter your home—they will not cross the line. Or, lay down a spoonful at an entry point they are making use of, leaving the unlucky ones inside to be squashed.

VINEGAR For crawling bugs, including ants and spiders, vinegar is another household staple that helps deter several kinds of insects. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and wipe down surfaces.

Not only will this keep bugs away, but vinegar is a powerful disinfectant. For fruit flies, put cider vinegar and water in a small bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and poke with several small holes using a toothpick to trap the flies.

CINNAMON This aromatic spice may be a family favorite in the kitchen, but many insects steer clear. You can use cinnamon in several ways. For starters cinnamon oil can kill mosquito eggs, which saves you the trouble of trying to kill them as adults. To make a diluted 1 percent oil solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon (or 24 drops) of oil for every 4 ounces of water. You can spray the fluid onto your skin or clothing, around your home, and onto upholstery or plants. Be careful when applying cinnamon oil, as a concentrated dose can irritate your skin.

Further, cinnamon sticks and powder will deter adult mosquitoes, as well as ants, moths, spiders, and other insects. Use cinnamon sticks in closets, cupboards, or other areas bugs like to hang out.

Sprinkle a little cinnamon powder on windowsills and in doorways, or add a few drops of essential cinnamon oil to water and spray cracks, corners, or anywhere bugs enter to keep them away.

OUTSIDE THE HOUSE LAVENDER Crushed lavender flowers produce a fragrance and oil that can repel mosquitoes. An animal study** on hairless mice found lavender oil to be effective at repelling adult mosquitoes. It also has pain relieving, anti-fungal, and antiseptic qualities, which means it is good for your skin too.

Lavender grows well in gardens or planters. Crush the flowers and apply the oil to bite-sensitive areas of the body; e.g., ankles and arms. Also dab some oil on a clean cloth and rub onto the skin.

DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (DE) If you have an in-ground pool, you may already have some of this around. This powder is actually the remains of fossilized diatoms (hard-shelled algae). Completely non-toxic to humans and pets, it kills any bug with an exoskeleton; i.e., fleas, earwigs, stinkbugs, and cockroaches. Microscopic shards contained in this substance pierce a bug’s outer shell, causing it to dehydrate.

Be sure to always buy “foodgrade” DE.

*Smithsonian Institute **NIH J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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Private Studio Self-Training !

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Each VIP Membership includes private access card, your own dedicated training times, easy-access parking, personal trainer on site most hours, and FREE weight training, cardio and healthy nutrition program set-up.* ~ Theo Thurston, owner ( Self-Training Studio NOT recommended for hard-core lifters or those with balance or other conditions which would be better served with supervised personal training. Minimum age 35. Thanks! )

* For MORE INFO please visit BUILDING STRONG COMMUNITY 1206 Williams Drive, Suite 100, Georgetown 78628

I Studio: 512-591-7817

Scott P. Self-Training Member J U N E 2 0 2 0 ď‚Ť G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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100 days of COVID

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com Photos courtesy of Williamson County

Straight Talk from Judge Bill Gravell IN AN INTERVIEW ON MAY 14, JUDGE BILL GRAVELL SHARED HIS REFLECTIONS AND HISTORIC EXPERIENCES AS WILLIAMSON COUNTY JUDGE DURING THE COVID19 PANDEMIC. HE PROVIDED, EXCLUSIVELY FOR GEORGETOWN VIEW READERS, A MACRO VIEW OF THE FIRST 100 DAYS OF THE CRISIS — ITS CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS, AS WELL AS THE EMOTIONAL IMPACT IT HAS MADE ON THIS FORMER PASTOR’S LIFE.

O N D AY 1 0 5 , J U D G E B I L L G R AV E L L LO O K E D AT T H E H A N D W R I T T E N L I S T O F N A M E S H E K E E P S W I T H H I M — T H E P E O P L E I N W I L L I A M S O N CO U N T Y W H O H AV E D I E D F R O M CO V I D. “ T W E N T Y Y E A R S F R O M N O W, I N S P I T E O F A F E W N E G AT I V E CO M M E N T S , W H AT I W I L L R E M E M B E R I S T H E ‘ I C A N ’ AT T I T U D E O F O U R P E O P L E . I ’ M G O I N G TO LO O K AT T H I S L I S T O F N A M E S , A N D A S K M Y S E L F A G A I N I F I D I D E N O U G H , O R CO U L D I H AV E D O N E M O R E ?”

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AY 1: On January 30, 2020, Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell was listening to a conference call about a disease in a foreign country, wondering, “Why am I on this call?”

One hundred days later, on May 9, he was at a free-standing, drive-through, public COVID testing facility in Taylor, when he received a text that two county residents had passed away, bringing the number of CVD-19 victims to 19. “My thought at that moment was the next day was Mothers’ Day and one of those people was a mother and a grandmother. How horrible the day would be for her family.”

He says it also struck him that she was 107 years old, and had lived through the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, the Great Depression, both World Wars, the Korean and Vietnam wars, Communism, and the moon landing. “Losing her memories is a loss to us all.”

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Despite any person’s individual history, Judge Gravell says he feels an obligation to everyone who has lost a life to this sickness, and has committed to reach out personally to their families, as well as make a public statement about each. “When this started, I didn’t have any idea what that might mean, or how many there would be. I know—as I sit here today—we have not seen them all.”

THE SCARY ROOM If you look at the collection of crisis management manuals in Williamson and other counties, you will find binders entitled TORNADO, FLOOD, and ACTIVE SHOOTER. In none of those libraries, until now, was there any guidance for PANDEMIC. Yet leaders across the county, state, and nation come under fire for nearly every decision they make, and the average citizen struggles to know who, or what, to believe. Still, more than 100 days

Judge Gravell and the ESOC team took respite behind the Operations Center. Counselors, knowing the toll the work would take, insisted on “outside” time for their mental and emotional health — but they were unable to leave the premises due to security threats and relentless photographers. Visitors and staff alike walked among the lightposts of a make-shift “frisbee” golf course to bring some peace to the minute-by-minute decisions that had to be made.

in, there continue to be things left unsaid, which leads to some of those criticisms, but perhaps for good reason.

Judge Gravell and his pandemic team number just under 100 people. While it was often necessary to have many of them in the same room for response and preparation, there was also another room...in the back. In that room, only 12 team leaders were invited to discuss the most delicate of emergencies. “It started out as an executive meeting room,” Judge says, “but was soon renamed ‘The Scary Room.’ I heard things in that room you don’t want your children to hear. Things discussed in that room would take your breath away. Because of those things, we prepared for the absolute worst that could have happened, and it was a burden that became so very heavy.”

M AY 9 E N D E D O U R F I R S T 1 0 0 D AY S . I ’ V E WA I T E D A LO N G T I M E TO T E L L T H I S S TO R Y. ~ J U D G E B I L L G R AV E L L In the Scary Room, Judge Gravell and the Emergency Services Operations Center (ESOC) team worked collaboratively to address many concerns. Elsewhere, he credits Mayors and City Managers for their contributions and support for maintaining an excellent working environment, but the responsibility for final decisions fell to the Judge. “I have two jobs; 99 percent of it is presiding over Commissioners Court, which is the routine business of the County. The other 1 percent is head of emergency management and that is astonishing. Just one conversation in the Scary Room produced a plan to put boots on the ground. Constables, deputies, even school resource officers began walking Walmart and Home Depot, to give us a sense of, and ensure calm in potential hotspots.

This was critical because the Commissioners and I were concerned, early on, about the Stay Home order; but we have a lot of very smart people working for our County; including more than a dozen Ph. D.s, studying the various issues.”

PRIORITIES “On Day 1 in Williamson County, the virus had only been around for six weeks and we didn’t know what we didn’t know. One thing I learned; I work with the most amazing group of people I’ve ever known.”

DAY 33: In his first social media release, the Judge announced he and the Commissioners had determined the County would prioritize protection—based on risk— of senior adults in nursing homes, Sun City, corrections facilities and inmates, and children.

Immediately after, Scary Room conversation turned to the lack of hand sanitizer and the risks posed to police officers and paramedics. “We were running out of gloves and masks,” Judge says. “I didn’t understand how we could have run out of those things and I was angry. But the supplies just didn’t exist, so I said, ‘If we can’t buy it, let’s make it.’” One hour and three phone calls later, local breweries and auto shops were manufacturing hand sanitizer, and the plan for the Mask Brigade was born.

Beyond basic PPE supplies, there were no test kits to be found. Judge Gravell called companies across America and around the world; even a CIA operative he thought might have some to sell. “Nothing was FDA-approved and I couldn’t abide knowing our police offers or EMS responders might be exposed. It was the only task I worked on personally, and when we finally found some, I broke down in tears.”

BURDENS OF LEADERSHIP DAY 43: The first four cases of COVID were confirmed in the County and Judge Gravell announced many closings. “We have to do this to protect our community,” was the Judge’s statement—and moral imperative—as he found himself asking schools and businesses to close. As he continued to receive information in the Scary Room about the death tolls in Italy and China, he knew the orders to shelter in place would come, just as the posts and emails became more heated, and even threatening.  J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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100 days of COVID DAY 49: “I took all the steps necessary to protect our community and find a place for senior department heads to continue to work, in safety, for our safety. I lived behind the building, with an armed deputy outside my RV, due to security concerns, after issuing the orders. I was followed, photographed, threatened, blamed personally for a suicide; and one said if I killed his business, he would kill me. All this, then I went back to the Scary Room for more.

“You make decisions with the best information you have. I knew my decision to shut down could destroy companies; people would lose their jobs. I struggled mentally and emotionally to weigh this cost with preserving lives.”

As the Judge continued to prepare for the worst− securing his senior team and adapting a temporary morgue−he also prepared to build a hospital in anticipation of a patient load that could number in the hundreds.

“We had an entire building given to us. Dell provided a three-story building with 325,000 square feet. At their own expense, and because they had already sent their employees home to work, Dell staff spent 14 days disassembling 800 office cubicles to prepare for the need that, fortunately, never came.”

Dell also asked what else the County might need, and when Judge Gravell asked for 100 laptops for his staff to work remotely, they re-opened a plant in Tennessee and the laptops arrived within a few days. “All of our trace teams needed computers, to help us protect nursing homes, Sun City, kids, and inmates. Thanks to Michael Dell and his team, we were able to give them every ounce of support they needed.”

When he was criticized for his choice to contract for temporary morgues and refrigerated vehicles, Judge rested on information provided in the Scary Room, and while allowing that the UT study* was flawed, no one knew it at that time. As the number of victims continued to climb in May, the trucks remained.

“When news came from England and Spain, it was an awakening. When I saw photos of bodies lying outside in New York City, I made an absolute commitment...

This. Will. Not. Be. Us.”

“THE MARTIAN” APPROACH With myriad needs, and levels of immediacy mounting, Judge Gravell began delegating to experts of all kinds.

Knowing his reputation for excellent customer service, Judge kept County Tax Assessor Larry Gaddes at work as an official “Getter” of everything from gloves to more computers. Larry was tasked to the Crisis Logistics team and brought several employees with him, in addition to converting his own office space to mix gallons of alcohol and aloe into hand sanitizer.

As Larry got busy finding things, Judge Gravell’s guidance was simply, “Don’t tell me what you can’t do.”

Larry and his team proceeded in every legal way necessary; passenger vans to double as EMS vehicles; pickup trucks, and even a black Tahoe with lights and sirens were put in service to a temporary warehouse for food and supplies, which he also found. Judge Gravell says, “I continue to be amazed at how this team could make something out of nothing, over and over again. They effectively took piles of junk, threw them on a table, and found a way to fix problems.”

Judge Gravell applauded personal tenacity as well.

For one of Larry’s tasks, he drove a van all day looking for gloves and disinfectant. “He went to every business he found open and, at the end of the day, was disappointed to deliver just a half-pallet of items. I couldn’t have been more thrilled.”

CELEBRATING GENEROSITY As tensions grew, the leadership team recognized the need to share information and tell stories in a way the community could follow. The Public Relations office, under the oversight of Connie Odom, ramped up to seven employees to produce PSAs, social media videos, and untold press releases. Judge recalls, “Many people gave a lot...”

DAY 52: As luck would have it, Celebration Church’s Pastor Joe Champion invited Judge Gravell to speak to his congregation, and as Joe was walking into his studio to film a video, he asked how the church could help. Shortly thereafter, and at no cost to the County, Judge Gravell had that professional studio, and staff, at his disposal for several weeks. “Armed with scripts from

T H E Y M AY N OT B E G O I N G TO T H E M O O N O R M A R S , B U T W I T H R E S P E C T TO T W O O F T H E B E S T N A S A M O V I E S E V E R M A D E , YO U M AY S O O N S E E T H E LO G I S T I C S T E A M ’ S N E W T - S H I R T S ... “ W E ’ R E G O I N G T O A P O L LO 13 T H E ** ** O U T O F T H I S” *COVID-19 Healthcare Demand Projections: Austin Texas. Wang, et al. 4/6/20 estimated 100,000 positive cases in Williamson County based on average social interactions.

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WHEN PEOPLE TALK ABOUT THIS 20 YEARS FROM NOW, THEY WILL SAY WE WORKED TOGETHER, FOUGHT AND PRAYED TOGETHER, AND CRIED TOGETHER. WE STOOD STRONG, AND HISTORY WILL SAY WE DID IT TOGETHER. ~ JUDGE BILL GRAVELL At Sun City Worship Place with Paula Dennis and the Mask Brigade. See our coverage in the May issue of the GeorgetownView.

Connie, I went in every day to tell our story. I knew if we could bring people along with us, we would not also fall victim to anarchy, violence, or fear.”

Then, Celebration just kept on giving. Its buildings filled with pallets full of food, and dozens of volunteers to prepare boxes for the Austin food bank. Not long after, they provided even more space for the COVID Ranger mask volunteers. “That church is giving everything they can− a wonderful example of the body of Christ at work.”

ISD DELIVERS DAY 53: Judge Gravell says working with the schools was a wonderful experience. He met with the county’s many superintendents to talk about unprecedented changes as things began to get serious. “I looked into their eyes and one person asked, ‘Judge, are we going to be okay?’ I said, ‘Absolutely, but we have to do this to protect our community.’”

He met with the superintendents again before holding a press conference to announce school closings, and one person expressed great concern about serving meals to the kids who truly rely on school breakfasts and lunches for their nutrition. “My first concern was about all the cross contamination in food production, but these leaders all got together and came up with a plan for their individual communities.

Many served thousands of meals, five days a week, and the Florence ISD served on weekends as well.”

for assignment in the Health District to serve on trace teams. “When I also asked for officers, we deputized Liberty Hill and Hutto SROs. All of our schools were amazing and they helped solve problems. Everyone pitched in, from thermometers and masks to cleaning supplies, and we still have their nurses working with us today.”

STOP THE HOARDING DAY 55: Having seen the lines at grocery stores, and out of concern for the elderly, at-risk, and healthcare workers, Judge Gravell reached out to the public to be more considerate of neighbors and not stockpile necessities that were difficult to come by in the early days.

“People had to stand in line for hours to provide things for their families. I wanted to encourage them to take a deep breath, because this was never a food emergency. Our supply chains were significant, especially our wonderful H-E-Bs and Randall’s, and we always knew they would have more in the days ahead; the trucks were delivering every day.” He mentioned specific directives related to limiting toilet paper, dairy, and other purchases, as well as applauding stores that changed hours to allow high-risk and first response customers to shop at special times. “I just asked people to be patient and work together. At the very least, I hoped we could learn from our kids and play well together. Our children will remember forever what we taught them in this difficult time, and it was important to keep that focus on the safety and well-being of our community first.” 

The superintendents also gathered up their school nurses and dispatched them Judge Gravell reporting on local television news at the Taylor testing facility in May. J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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100 days of COVID ASK AND YE SHALL...

DAY 57: When the recommedation for face coverings came, Judge Gravell made what he felt was one of his best decisions.

“Since we couldn’t buy them, we had to make them. Even today, we are still waiting for our order of 50,000 N95 masks. Our paramedics were taking their N95s to Austin to have them cleaned for re-use. I asked God who could Judge Gravell swore in Dr. Jeff Jarvis as a deputy health authority take on the task of managing mask producfor the Williamson County and Cities Health District. tion, then asked State District Judge Donna was a collective gut feeling that there was more going King to stop being a judge for a while to be on, and by 1:00 the next morning, with help from depua leader of people. I couldn’t be more pleased with the ties who delivered test kits across the county, the Health production and the efforts of Judge King, Paula Dennis, District had tested everyone; nursing home employees, and more than 200 volunteers in the Mask Brigade*.” paramedics, and others in the first response group.

As if laptops from Dell weren’t enough, the County “Without [team leader] Amy Jarosek going into that first Elections bureau provided 60 additional computers home, and getting the ball rolling, we could not have for the Health District, followed by a call from the Vice prevented a truly bad situation. Still, there are a lot more President of Apple, who also asked if the County had any positives coming.” needs. Judge said he needed jumbo iPads and cleaning Without help from an overwhelmed state EMS, the supplies. A few days later, a dolly full of iPads arrived at a county Health District created a system, set up public briefing, and the VP himself showed up with thermometesting sites, and continue to work with private centers ters for nurses, day care centers, and municipal buildings like Family Emergency Room for free testing. He adds, with essential employees.

“We pay for the kits and they provide the work at no cost Judge Gravell also credits those who work in our Crimto the county. We are now able to do hundreds per day.” inal Justice system. “I knew it was coming; that we were going to have to shut down the courts. I spoke to the District and County Attorneys and the Judges, and told them, ‘I don’t know how you’re supposed to fix it, but go DAY 74: “I never thought there’d be a day I would shut and come up with a solution.’ Those elected officials and down churches,” Judge says. “The thought that people employees pulled more resources together in one week just couldn’t go—talk about infringing on someone’s than I could have imagined. Adaptive court is still not right to assemble. I had conference calls with many ideal for our needs, but I continue to be impressed with pastors and church leaders, and some expressed clear our ability to work together.” frustration in that decision. But I was at the point of protecting their lives first.”

ANOTHER FIRST

SOMETHING’S NOT RIGHT DAY 62: There was a Scary Room meeting every morning at 8:30 with the Sheriff and the Health District to discuss the night before, and give direction for the day.

At 9am, Judge Gravell spoke to the leadership team to work on messaging. “On that particular day, we had clarity on many things, but I felt like we needed to go back and double check some things. Only one confirmed case in our nursing home population seemed too good to be true and I asked if we had really checked.”

On that day, the decision to lock down the senior facilities, however high the cost, proved to be the wisest.

Amy’s Army, the County’s Rapid Response Viral Strike Team, found one employee who tested positive. There 32

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On Easter Sunday, Judge Gravell left the ESOC, after what, he says, felt like 40 days. “It was easier to keep security at the command center than outside my house, but Easter was important, and I just wanted to go home. We watched services on the computer, and had a communion of wine and garlic toast. I never thought this would be a thing, but I was so grateful for it.”

THE BUSINESS OF BUSINESS DAY 76: Although he didn’t tell anyone, Judge Gravell filed for CARES funding from the Federal Government.

Speaking with business leaders Gordon Logan, Josh Schroeder, Will Peckham, and others, about business and owners who were losing so much financially, they came

up with a plan to help small businesses get back on their feet. “I was afraid we wouldn’t get anything and I prayed, ‘Lord, do not let us down. We need help and we need it badly.’”

Still keeping it to himself, Judge Gravell called County Treasurer Scott Heselmeyer every day to ask if there were any new deposits. “He asked me what was up, and finally—I can imagine the look on his face—he texted back that there was a deposit for $93,382,340.10. That was the start of the CARES Act and it’s still not enough. I’m going to keep asking for more.”

Scott and his committee created the Wilco Forward program to distribute up to $25 million to small businesses and sole proprietors. Applications poured in, staff worked through the weekends to fill those needs and by day 24 of the program, they had distributed nearly $19 million.

“My biggest role in all of this was to be an encourager and cheerleader. I remember telling people, ‘You can do this,’ then walking away just hoping they bought it, because I myself didn’t know how they might do it. When I saw them again, I just assured them I knew they knew how to do it.”

DAY 100: “We still have a crisis on our hands,” Judge says. “There are 22 paramedics in quarantine, for myriad reasons, and unable to do their job. Still, our EMS department

is operating to capacity, and we continue to find clusters in businesses, nursing homes, and EMS systems.

But it doesn’t matter if this is day 1 or 100, all the scary stuff that has happened has not led me, for even one day, to fail to think, ‘We’ve got this!’

“Even on those days when I wonder where we will get all the things we need, I just tell my getters and scroungers... and it appears. I have more confidence in our cities, counties, and state government than I ever have. ”

I gave everything I had, and some that I didn’t have, to protect this community.

Some days I was so full of crap; being optimistic, and telling

On day 104, when the Thunderbirds flew over Williamson County, Judge Gravell took a moment away from making scary decisions. He says, “No matter what you do, someone will be angry, hurt, or may die.

I just want to make good decisions and, perhaps selfishly, have a place left for my grandchildren. This has been a nightmare, and, somewhere, I lost my sense of humor.

“But, the Thunderbirds reminded me to just celebrate America. A symbol that we will stand again. We may have been brought to our knees because of this, but—however wobbly—we are standing today.”

About that same time, Judge announced the construction of a new children’s hospital. “Having a worldclass facility choose Williamson County is a reminder of the blessings we have living here. It’s one of those moments that lets us forget, because, for us, success is completely normal.”

people they could do it; watching them walk out of the room shaking their heads like I was an idiot. But, we didn’t have a choice; we had to survive.

It’s still not over. There will still be people who will get sick and lose their life. But it is time for us to stand up and walk.

621 people (at press time) in Williamson County have contracted the Coronavirus; 25 have lost their lives.

Bill Gravell Williamson County Judge

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T H E R E WA S N E V E R A M O M E N T I D O U B T E D W E W O U L D B E O K AY. A S S C A R Y A S I T S E E M E D, I K N E W I T WA S G O I N G TO B E A L L R I G H T A N D I T I S . J U S T L I K E T H I N G S C H A N G E D A F T E R 9 /1 1 — I T ’ S J U S T... D I F F E R E N T.

Photo courtesy Camy Reynolds via Facebook J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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100 days of COVID

Georgetown Responds CITY MANAGER DAVID MORGAN “Emergency planning is typically centered around short-term things like floods or tornadoes,” David says.

“As a public safety emergency, this was very unique and required a unique set of responses.”

Georgetown’s primary responsibility was to follow orders created at the Federal and State level; “We saw our orders shift quite a bit, and we worked hard to evaluate those changes for Georgetown, but also in coordination with other cities, for consistency’s sake, because so many people live and work in different parts of the county. We made sure we were complying and enforcing directives as an organization, and also within the community. We were challenged over a few weeks’ time to really shift our own resources to enable us to provide services, and adapt our practices and policies around telecommuting.”

City staff were able to improvise quickly to the inability to meet physically; i.e., hold Council meetings, issue permits, then manage the changes necessary to shut down the school district after Spring Break. “We also had to consider the method and the impact of shutting everything down in the city, including how to provide day care for all the essential employees who continued to work.”

One rapid modification took place at the city’s Recreation Center. The building was quickly converted and adapted to CDC guidelines to become a day care facility. City staff also supported and advocated for data gathering to help track the spread of the virus and its impact. “You can never have enough data when it comes to tracking and decision-making. In a crisis, you are really challenged to make a lot of short-term plans because circumstances change so quickly. Early on, we determined our priorities and focused on those as a decision-making tool.”

The City worked diligently to provide as many services as possible while ensuring it was being done with everyone’s safety in mind. “Even our public library went from being closed, to providing curbside service, then delivery, then back to curbside, and now grab-n-go.

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We are doing everything we can to keep our services active while still following orders from the county and state.”

David is pleased they have been able to focus and increase communications via COVID webpages and Facebook live events. “Having an increased presence online has allowed us to share data quickly, and we continue to ramp up communication to increase and maintain engagement to provide the latest information available.”

POLICE CHIEF WAYNE NERO “Simply put, this situation is surreal, but we have a mission,” Chief Nero says. “There are many unknowns and we do everything we can to stay ahead of the curve. We cannot stop doing what we do even though it involves people and contact. We maintain expectations for our officers, ensure they are crystal clear on changes, and keep them safe while they are meeting that mission.”

The Georgetown Police Department set three priorities at the beginning of the crisis—maintain service, protect their people, and make sure each person has clear guidance and works with good information.

Chief Nero says his department was more than capable, and maintained the kind of service we’ve come to expect, while protecting officers and employees. They limited self-initiated activity—took many calls by phone— closed the lobby to the public, and minimized arrests unless absolutely necessary.

“We kept in close contact with other area chiefs to ensure no one area was doing their own thing, which might cause confusion for residents who needed to move around. Many people are in unsure territory and we wanted to be sure our communities received consistent messaging that aligned with state and county guidelines. ”

USAF Thunderbirds fly-by May 13 en route from Leander to Austin

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The Chief explained consistency is a priority in law enforcement to assure the public of fairness. “It would be easy for an unsure public to believe we are being heavy-hand-

ed, but we are doing all we can to minimize the need to take criminals to jail. There is some ownership of that on the citizens to be responsible, do as they are asked, without making us take care of things; e.g., we did not want to arrest anyone for staying too close together. Our job is to protect and serve, so there is a time and place for everything we do.”

HOW DID GEORGETOWN DO? Reports generated by Assistant Chief Cory Tchida indicate the “emergency” period was largely uneventful. Tracked data show a trend decline in arrests and automobile accidents.

“Crashes went down during the Stay Home orders, but as soon as things opened back up, it quickly went back to normal,” Chief Nero added. There were relatively few violations of emergency orders, and—barring a daily spike or two—no significant change in domestic violence. “Disturbances were at a minimum and we appreciate the calm from everyone, but I believe people are ready to get back to normal, which for us can be hard.”

The Chief did note a trend that seemed to be unique to people staying home or close by; “We found a group taking advantage of the opportunities to burglarize vehicles. There are five to ten individuals from south Austin, who normally just walk down the street checking car doors and take things, or find keys and steal the cars. This is happening all over the County, so, as always, just lock your things and don’t make it easy for them.”

The difference between this event and most other emergencies is as psychological as it is profound. “If we had a hurricane, there is no question Governors or Judges have the right to make declarations, and we implement procedures to manage movements and credentials as necessary.

People understand that inconvenience, but they are tolerant because of destruction they can see. There is no national outrage when there are houses flooded or destroyed. This time, the entire United States was a disaster area, but the vast majority of us did not experience what happened in New York City. Most people felt quite a disconnect between what they were being asked to do and what they were seeing and feeling. It just didn’t compute. But, as it always is, our job is to understand that frustration and respond to it consistently. We continue to educate and inform, collaborate with other cities and chiefs, and make sure people understand the best they can.”

MAYOR DALE ROSS As of June 1, we await guidance from Governor Abbott to finalize our activities for Independence Day. We, unfortunately, will not be able to hold our parade or the festival in San Gabriel Park, but it is our resolute intent (contingent on the Governor’s guidance) to have fireworks on the evening of July 4th.

I am working with the City Manager and staff to create a plan for drive-in participation. We are encouraging residents to take advantage of the many parking spaces within and surrounding the park, including, perhaps, the areas at the old rodeo arena nearby — if it hasn’t rained! — to watch the show from their vehicles.

Families are also welcome to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks inside or near the park, while practicing safe social distancing between non-household groups.

San Gabriel has 180 acres of parkland to provide plenty of space for ‘distancing’, and three points of entry and egress to get everyone in and out safely.

As well, there are many places — from IH-35 feeders and other parking lots around Georgetown from which the fireworks can be seen. We may even see an increase in participants as the City of Round Rock has decided not to hold an event that evening.

The bottom line is we want to celebrate freedom as a community and this wonderful display is a free event; it doesn’t cost anything for the good people of Georgetown to enjoy a great night out, to take our minds off the worries of this strange time.

Look for more information this month from the City (Georgetown.org) as our plans continue to develop.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

part 6

EVERYTHING’S BIGGER

ONE TEXAS MILLIONAIRE BRAGGED TO A N OT H E R , “ I T TA K E S M E A L L D AY TO D R I V E A C R O S S M Y R A N C H .”

T H E OT H E R T E X A N LO O K E D AT H I M A N D D R AW L E D, “ Y E A H , I U S E D TO H AV E A T R U C K L I K E T H AT, TO O.”

IT SHOULD SURPRISE NO ONE THAT “EVERYTHING IS BIGGER IN TEXAS” WAS PROPAGATED AS MUCH BY PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE STATE AS FROM WITHIN IT. WHEN YOU’RE IN TEXAS, SURROUNDED BY ITS MYSTICAL PIECES AND PLACES, IT’S JUST TEXAS. WHEN YOU GO ELSEWHERE, OR WHEN OTHERS VISIT, THE COMPARISONS BECOME OBVIOUS.

T

exans, and frankly, most other people, know “Everything is Bigger in Texas,” both real and imagined. While it may have roots in the enormity of our geographical area, historically, it goes much deeper than that.

The culture of Texas involves concepts of rugged individualism, self-reliance, hard work, and being a good neighbor. As part of that outward individualism, we have giant hats, big hair, big boots, enormous ranches, and tall buildings.

On the inside, there are plenty of big personalities, big egos, and no where else on the planet can you say, “Remember the...” without someone knowing how to finish it. All because a small army of Texans showed the world that we knew how to fight for independence. It’s also worth noting that Larry “J.R. Ewing” Hagman was a Texan. All these layers play into a mystical Texas “thing”, generated from the beginning of our history and greatly expanded, and happily self-propagated, in movies, music, and television.

EARLY SIGNS In 1906, the Association of American Nurserymen had a conference in Dallas. The keynote speaker opened with this story*.

A Texas nurseryman was in New York talking with a New York real estate man. They were going down the street when the New York man happened to spy some very large pumpkins on the other side of the street.

“Now, just gaze upon these,” he said. “Have you got anything in Texas to beat that?” The Texas man said, “What are they, cantaloupes?” The New York man said, “Now, look here, I know you Texas people have got nerve, but you haven’t the nerve to tell me that cantaloupes grow that big in Texas.”

The Texas man said, “Then what are they?”

“They are pumpkins.” The Texas man said, “Why, hell, fellow, the seed get that big in Texas.”

Don’t misconstrue the things they say to you. When [a Texan] starts talking to you in a manner, which in any other country would be called boasting, remember it is not boasting in Texas.

*Proceedings of the 31st Annual Convention of the AAN; Commercial Club, Dallas, June 1906.

TRULY BIGGER The Texas State Capitol is nearly 15 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol, and larger in area than any state capitol.

The San Jacinto Monument is 12 feet taller than the Washington Monument.

The area of DFW Airport is larger than all of Manhattan Island in New York City. Our largest wind farm is 4-1/2 times bigger than Manhattan.

Three of the ten largest stadiums in the nation are in Texas; Kyle Field-Texas A&M, Texas Memorial Stadium at UT, and the old Cotton Bowl. (If you count standing room, Cowboys’ stadium is #4.)

The Texas economy makes up nearly 9 percent of the nation’s GDP. At $1.43 trillion, it is 13th in the world.

Texas has enough crude oil reserves to fill up more than 1,400 Empire State Buildings.

The King Ranch is bigger than Rhode Island.

Broom, Texas is home to one of the world’s tallest freestanding crosses. At 190 feet, its shadow is visible from space.

Lakewood Church in Houston has 52,000 weekly members.

Big Tex (facing page) is 68 years old, and is the tallest Texan. He is 55 feet tall, wears size 96 boots and a 95-gallon hat. His jeans weigh 100 pounds.

If you drive from Dallas to Los Angeles, 12 of those 24 hours are on Texas roads.

By population, 6 Texas cities are in the top 20 in the U.S.

There are three electrical grids in the United States; East , West...and Texas.

Thanks to our history of self-determination, energy independence, and the culture and romanticism of the Old West, Texas is deserving of its iconic nature, and the unique picture it paints. 

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what makes Texas “Texas” BUT WHY?

CAN-DO

Texas is a huge chunk of land. In fact, it is 7.4% of the total U.S. area — or double the ten smallest states combined. At one time, Texas territory included a major portion of New Mexico, the panhandle of Oklahoma, and a big piece of Colorado edging toward Wyoming.

So, technically, the current Texas is comparatively smaller than even Texas used to be.

The City of Houston created one of the largest seaports in the United States — 50 miles from the ocean.

When the weather became too hot and humid to watch professional football comfortably, Houston built the first air conditioned football stadium.

When oil lured people from failing mid-west industrial complexes, the prevailing attitude of the rushers was that Texans “were too dumb to know what can not be done, so they just went ahead and got done what everyone else knew was ‘impossible.’” That can-do attitude was part of Texas culture borne out of being under, and gaining independence from three foreign nations prior to becoming a sovereign nation, and later, a U.S. state. Even the Federal Government has to ask Texas’ permission to build on public land. No other state has a history like that.

Being proud about that is also part of being Texas.

Perhaps because it takes a long time to drive across Texas, State Highway 130 has a 41-mile section (which goes through Georgetown) with a marked speed limit of 85 mph; the fastest in the nation.

Still, if you must ponder the fact that the Northwest has bigger trees, Florida has better beaches, Arizona has the biggest canyon, and Alaska’s tallest mountain is more than twice as tall as ours, remember... the U.S. Census Bureau says more than 1,000 people move here. Every.

Day. So bigger here or not, a lot of people want a piece of it. ‘Nuff said.

TEXAS IS THE BIRTHPLACE OF DR. PEPPER, FRITOS, CHILI, 7-11, FROZEN MARGARITAS, AND THE MICROCHIP.

For you trivia buffs, the New Braunfels Buc-ee’s is the largest convenience store in the world, at 66,335 sq ft.

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ase,

f purch

time o nted at e s e r p e must b rs Coupon bination Offe m o C o N

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facts to blow your mind

Fascinating Folks In the mid-1980s, Fergie of the Black-Eyed Peas was the voice of Charlie Brown’s sister, Sally.

Wilford Brimley was once Howard Hughes’ bodyguard.

Nichelle Nichols (Lt. Uhura) was planning to quit Star Trek. Martin Luther King Jr convinced her to stay. As a fan of the show, he told her “First the first time, we are seen as we should be seen. You don’t have a black role; you have an equal role.”

I don’t care HOW much money you have... eat your oatmeal!

The actor who played French Corporal Louis LeBeau in “Hogan’s Heroes” was Jewish. He was interned at a concentration camp in Poland and later sent to Buchenwald.

He was not anxious about being in the show because it was about a POW camp, which was “a world of difference” from a concentration camp.

Frederick Baur invented the Pringles can. When he passed away in 2008, his ashes were buried in one.

Dr. Ruth Westheimer was a trained sniper. As a youth in Palestine, for her obligatory civil service, she chose the forerunner to the Israeli Defense Forces and was able to “hit the target in the center further away than anyone could believe”. She fought in the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and learned to throw grenades but says, fortunately, she never had to use any of those skills.

Harriet Tubman was a former slave who became a political activist for the abolition movement. But in addition to smuggling escaped slaves through the Underground Railroad, during the Civil War she was the first woman to lead an armed assault. She planned and executed a number of raids and was known to carry a revolver for personal protection.

Walt Disney was actually terrified of mice. It’s commonly believed he created Mickey Mouse to confront this fear.

Texting before his time... Thomas Edison taught his second wife Morse code so they could communicate with each other when among family members by tapping on each other’s arms.

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Hard to find a non-copyright photo of Mickey...

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Treat Dad to Brunch, Lunch or Dinner!

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worth the drive

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Enchanted Rock 16710 Ranch Rd. 965, Fredericksburg • Admission $8; children under 12 free • Open daily 6:30am-10pm MUST RESERVE PASSES online, or call customer service 512.389.8900 • Call for COVID-19 guideline updates.

A

rchaeological evidence suggests Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has been fascinating and drawing people to Central Texas for 12,000 years.

Its principal attraction is a pink granite dome, which peaks 1,825 feet above sea level, known as a batholith.

In the modern era, the area was colonized in the 1700s, and has been home to missions, presidios, and mineral mining. Today, the park is a National Natural Landmark and is one of the most visited parks in Texas, with more than 250,000 trekkers annually. It is open to the public daily, with specific guidelines for COVID-19 during June 2020.

THE BATHOLITH One billion years ago, this granite was part of a large pool of magma (liquid rock), as much as seven miles below the surface. It pushed up into the rock above in places, then cooled and hardened very slowly, becoming granite. Over time, the surface rock and soil eroded, leaving Enchanted Rock, Little Dome, Turkey Peak, and other domes visible.

The domes, a bit like icebergs, are the small and visible part of a much larger underground area of granite. The Enchanted Rock Batholith stretches 62 square miles, mostly underground.

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Although Enchanted Rock appears to be solid and durable, it is actually an exfoliation dome, which means it has layers like an onion, that are changing and eroding—however slowly­—even today.

As rock and soil on the top wear away, the granite expands slightly, because there is less weight on it.

This expansion causes the dome to split into curved sections. As the outer layer of rock breaks into smaller pieces and slides off, the next layer begins to peel away from the dome.

HISTORY Prehistoric people left at least one kind of evidence throughout the park; bedrock mortars­—depressions in the granite—where they ground and pounded their food. There are at least 400 known archaeological sites in the park.

During the 1700s, Spaniards began to colonize the area and mine for minerals. Word from the mines got out and Germans and Americans began arriving in the mid-1800s, hoping to strike it rich.

WHY IT’S ENCHANTED Geologists say temperature changes cause the dome rock to “creak and groan” on occasion. Native Americans believed the sounds were from ghosts. As well, on clear nights, after a rain, the top of the rock

worth the drive

glitters—resembling flickering “ghost fires,” which enhanced legends and stories through the ages. Scientists believe the glittering is reflections from collected water or wet feldspar (crystallized magma).

WHEN YOU GO It is just about a two-hour drive from Georgetown. There are nearly 11 miles of hiking trails, rock climbs, picnic and camping areas. Visitors can also birdwatch and geocache.

From ground level in the park, Enchanted Rock rises 425 feet. The entire dome covers 640 acres and the trip to the top is about like climbing the stairs of a 30- or 40-story building.

Hikers suggest arriving early in the day to avoid large crowds and full sun exposure in the open expanse of the rock.

Tent campsites are available for a per-car fee. Some private sites include shade shelters, and all are located near the shower building, with water faucets and restrooms nearby.

Each has an outdoor grill and fire ring, tent pad and lantern post. For hardier guests, you can bring a pet, hike further in to the historical sites, and spend the night near Moss Lake or Walnut Springs. There are also group historical sites that allow as many as 75 campers per night.

Stargazers are in luck as well. The park has International Dark Sky status and, while visitors are welcome to stay until 10pm daily, Rangers occasionally host Rock Star Parties for expert input (check website for events).

Pets are welcome on a leash, and the only activities not permitted in the parks are swimming and trail biking.

There is also a park store that carries gifts, wood, and snacks. Rangers encourage visitors to bring and carry their own drinking water to ensure a good supply.

TPWD.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock @GoEnchantedRock

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C H A R L I E I S L E A D PA STO R AT R I V E R R O C K B I B L E C H U R C H I N G E O R G E TOW N. H E A N D H I S W I F E , A M A N D A , H AV E B E E N B L E S S E D W I T H F O U R E A RT H LY C H I L D R E N A N D O N E H E AV E N LY C H I L D, A N D C O U L D T E A C H A G R A D U AT E C O U R S E I N G R E AT PA R E N T I N G .

THE MOST FUN THING ABOUT TRIPLETS? Wrestling. I love wrestling all four at the same time. They climb on and I say, “Okay, you got me!” then I peel them off. But I don’t let them win; they have to earn it.

DO YOU HAVE A BIBLE ‘FAVORITE’ FOR DADS? In the Gospels, after Jesus is baptized, a voice from heaven says, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” It is a beautiful reminder to all dads that even Jesus was blessed by hearing His father say, “I love you, I’m proud of you.” Every day, I try to say that to my children and tell them something they are good at. It is a blessing to let them hear you say that.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FATHER’S DAY TRADITIONS? I would love to go hunting, but nothing is in season in June so I don’t want the game warden after me. I love doing and sharing things with my kids that we all love; things I want to pass along to them, like hunting, fishing, grilling, and working with tools. Anything we can do together is special to me and I love that they want to help and learn how to do all those things. And, if there’s a baseball game on, that’s the cherry on top.

The rest of the year we schedule Daddy-Dude and Daddy-Daughter dates. Each child has special time with mom and dad, so they always feel like they have a special connection with us, beyond being part of a group of kids.

Anything from overnight hunting trips to waffles or ice cream; as long as it is special and individual.

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We also each keep an Honor List. Every family member has a notebook and on special occasions we take turns writing in each other’s books something we love about them. We go around the table and share those things.

The great thing is when I, or anyone, has a rough day, we can pull out those books and read what the people who care about us most say about us. And occasionally I ask them to stand around me and sing “Good Good Father” but that hasn’t really taken off (and...I’m kidding).

WHAT SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT FATHERHOOD? The realization of the responsibility. The sense of the limited amount of time we have and we want to send them out of the house as adults, not simply on their journey to becoming one. Their faith will be their own and we have a finite amount of time to instill all the things they will need. I have an app that counts the weeks and days before they graduate college. I pull up those numbers and am reminded of the short time I have to give them all the goodness we hope they will take with them. Seeing it makes me realize how quickly those hours come off the clock.

BEST ADVICE YOU GOT FROM YOUR DAD? Make time for your wife; love and serve her well. Your kids are watching the way you treat your wife and someday your boys will grow up to treat their wife that way.

Your daughters will learn from you how they expect to be treated. Ephesians 5 explains how to serve the women in their lives when they grow up. The gift is to love their mom and make sure they grow up in a household where we are loving each other.

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It’s Not Too Soon to Plan Your Next Chapter There is always going to be another emergency that makes living alone challenging. At The Oaks, you’ll find that we have a caring, live-in management team available day and night so our residents feel safe and secure in beautiful surroundings. We also take care of the grocery shopping, cooking, weekly housekeeping and local transportation to doctor’s appointments, leaving more time to enjoy retirement.

Call today to learn more about our gracious retirement lifestyle

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© 2020 HSL

3720 Williams Drive, Georgetown, TX 78628 J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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poppy talks

Why I love Sheldon Cooper or... welcome to the all-COVID-free page

I

have my own personal pantheon of characters that don’t so much identify me as represent random things I wish I could achieve; or they at least remind me of seasons of life that did mold me quite a bit...

James T. Kirk, Tony Soprano, Andy Griffith (naturally), Sarah Connor, and Frasier Crane make up a lot of the pop culture mosaic that is Me, or at least the Me I’d like to be.

From the first episode of “The Big Bang Theory”, I knew Sheldon was going to be a thing, and my reasons continue to evolve as I do.

At first, I admired his ridiculous IQ. I always considered myself to be a dumb smart person. I was in the top ten percent of my high school class, but I was 23 out of 236, so just barely. Our Valedictorian is an actual rocket scientist today. He’s a Sheldon. I got into a great university, but I got the lowest grades of anyone I knew. My little Sister in my sorority is a published Ph.D. and a professor at Yale. She’s a Sheldon.

During season 6 of the show, I became a mom, and during season 8, I found out my son was on the spectrum. There has always been talk that Sheldon has Asperger’s, or something similar, so I started studying him in a whole new way. As my son has grown up, he is quite intelligent, but he has that super annoying way of seeing the world, quite vigorously, in black and white. Like Sheldon, he’s never wrong in his observations, but when I laugh at Leonard and Penny rolling their eyes at Sheldon, I am reminded, it’s not so funny to them and, on some days, I am Leonard and Penny.

As I continue to watch reruns on a daily basis, I am more and more aware of how my son’s quirky observations are not personal attacks on me, or even personal at all. Just the way things look to him in an empirical and truthful way—“Mom, maybe you need

a nap.” Funny how life imitates art and gives me a safe place to find those extra bucketfuls of patience required by momhood. I watch The Good Doctor for the same reason.

The most recent Sheldonization focuses on what I believe is my latest phase of life I’ll call extreme adulting. Really... how much better might the world be if we all followed ironclad roommate and relationship agreements to the letter?

Also, last month was Mother’s Day, and while I did call my own mom, the whole day went by without much thought for myself. Sheldon says holidays are just an exchange of money and obligation that make up part of our collective social contract. Well, I love being a mother every day, so I wasn’t really interested in putting an obligation on Son to do something special. Honestly, I can think of a dozen ways to spend money that will help someone who really needs it rather than indulging my already well-provided-for life. I feel the same about Valentine’s Day. I love my Sweetheart every day and have a wondrous marriage that does not require him to freak out over “the perfect card” once a year. Not ragging on any of these things, or others’ appreciation for them... I just don’t see the need any more for myself.

On the flip side, I continue to work on my Frasier Crane skills because I want to have the kind of empathy the world really requires. While I’d love to have Sheldon’s brain and his simple way of understanding and looking at life, I do think it wise to let the compassion bucket overflow often. Elsewhere, I want the fearlessness and quick thinking of Captain Kirk, the wisdom and kindness of Sheriff Taylor, the cleverness and loyalty of Tony Soprano, and plenty of Sarah Connor when those other things just won’t get the job done.

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On-site activities suspended until further notice.

Sermons & Children’s Sunday School online at

www.sgpcgeorgetown.org For additional information, call 512-868-0902 5404 Williams Drive | Georgetown J U N E 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I EW

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save the planet

Greta Bauer • greta@georgetownview.com

Stop Throwing Food Away

N

orth Americans waste more than 130 billion pounds of food annually. Whenever you throw away food, all the energy that went into its lifetime and/or growth is wasted.

The good news is, avoiding waste is relatively easy with just a few adjustments to our eating habits. If we all mindfully change a few habits, we can significantly reduce that number.

Eat what you have: Perhaps, in recent months, we’ve all gotten in the habit of making meals with what we have, since going to the grocery store has become a new kind of experience. Try to avoid impulse cravings, and consider looking for a fancy new recipe after you have a mental list of what is already on the shelves. Even do a web search with the name of your available food item plus the word “leftovers”.

Put some science in it: The coldest parts of a refrigerator are the back and bottom. Placing milk and eggs far back and low down in the fridge ensures they’ll be good past the date on the carton.

Condiments and pickles, which are high in natural preservatives, are fine stored in the door. Store berries unwashed until right before you use them to avoid mold, and keep raw food items separated to avoid cross-contamination or bacterial growth.

Compost: While it’s best to eat everything, we can’t help creating at least some waste.

But, put your banana peels and coffee grounds to work in the garden.

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Other than meat scraps, everything from your table can be safely turned into nutrient-rich garden soil.

Big Picture: When you’re in the store and you know you’ll be eating something today, choose a product close to its to sell-by date; better than being thrown out by the store.

Ugly Food: Many fruits and vegetables that aren’t visually appealing are often discarded before reaching the produce aisle. Many stores now sell odd-shaped produce as a brand. Same flavor and cost less. Also consider eating the skins of potatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetables. Add a few fancy kitchen tools to your arsenal to turn broccoli and cauliflower stalks into soup fillers, or spiralized to use as a healthy pasta substitute.

Change your timing: Studies show we tend to eat more of what’s on our plate if we have a meal after exercise or active periods.

Best by / Expires on: You can still eat food well after its “best before” date. And many expiration dates are not about food safety at all; they are the producers’ suggestions for peak quality. You’ll know, with a simple sniff test, if it’s okay to eat.

BONUS: There are lots of uses for food past its prime — stale bread makes great French toast and grilled cheese sandwiches; wilted veggies won’t change the flavor in soups or stews, and overripe fruit blends well in smoothies.

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food

Best Fresh Picks for June IN HONOR OF EGG DAY ON JUNE 3, HERE’S A TIP ON CRACKING THE CODE ON YOUR CARTONS Each carton of USDA graded eggs shows:

APRICOT SALAD FOR A STARTER June stands for sweet apricots. Rich in carotene and packed with vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as niacin and iron, making them powerful healers for wounds and strained muscles.

Plus, they’re beneficial for heart, skin and bone health. They’ll satisfy that afternoon sweet tooth while bringing big, juicy flavor to this salad.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup uncooked farro

• 4 apricots

• 1/2 cup crumbled ricotta salata or goat cheese • processing plant number (P####) • expiration or “best by” date • date of packaging (###) This 3-digit code indicates the packing date — January 1 is 001 thru December 31 at 365. These eggs were packaged on the 223rd day of the year; August 10th.

• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

• 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped

• 3 Tbsp shallot, finely chopped

• 2 Tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped

DIRECTIONS Cook farro with ¼ teaspoon salt, according to package instructions. Once cooked, spread onto a baking sheet to cool.

In a bowl, toss farro with the rest of the ingredients and lemon vinaigrette, to taste.

LEMON VINAIGRETTE Make a larger batch and store in the fridge up to two weeks, if desired.

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 lemons, juiced

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1 tsp honey

• Sea salt and pepper, to taste Combine all ingredients in a blender until mixed thoroughly.

You can store fresh eggs in the refrigerator for 4-5 weeks beyond this date.

Refrigerate eggs in their original carton and place them in the coldest part of the refrigerator; not the door.

For best quality, use eggs within three weeks of the date you purchase them.

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June is also

CHARRED BEAN AND PEA SALAD Garlic and green beans are best picked in June. This salad is beautifully crisp with just the right amount of char — covers your textural bases.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 dried chiles de árbol • 6 garlic cloves, smashed • 3/4 tsp. coarse black pepper • Kosher salt • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds • 1/3 c plus 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice • 1 tsp pure maple syrup • 1-1/2 lb. green or wax beans, sugar snap and/or snow peas, trimmed

DIRECTIONS Cook chiles, garlic, ginger, black pepper, cumin seeds, and 1/3 cup oil in small saucepan over low heat, swirling occasionally, until garlic is golden and oil is fragrant, 5–8 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in lime juice and maple syrup; set aside.

ICED TEA MONTH If you have too many lemons and don’t want them to go bad, slice them into quarters and freeze in an airtight bag or container.

A frozen lemon wedge is also wonderful in a cold glass of tea!

Place beans and/or peas on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle with remaining oil. Season with salt, toss to coat, and spread beans in single layer. Broil, undisturbed, until tender and blistered all over, about 4 minutes. Let cool.

Arrange beans and peas on platter and spoon reserved dressing; season with salt.

STRAWBERRY CINNAMON ROLLS Just when you thought cinnamon rolls couldn’t get any better, along come June strawberries.

INGREDIENTS

• 3 1/4 c flour • 1/2 tsp salt • 3/4 c milk • 1/2 tsp sugar • 3 tbsp soft butter • 2 tsp lemon juice

• 2 tsp instant yeast • 1 egg • 1/3 c butter softened • 21 oz strawberry pie filling • 1 c powdered sugar • 1 tbsp lemon zest

• 1/4 c white sugar • 1/4 cup water • 2 tsp cinnamon • 4 oz cream cheese softened • 1/4 c half & half • 1 tsp vanilla

DIRECTIONS In small saucepan over medium-low heat add milk and butter. Stir until butter has melted and remove from heat. Let stand until lukewarm temperature.

In large mixing bowl whisk 2-1/4 cups flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Knead (by hand or mixer) until smooth, once ingredients are added. Add egg and water and mix until just starting to combine. Slowly add milk mixture and 1c flour until dough forms and becomes smooth. Let dough rest 10 minutes.

On lightly floured surface, roll dough into a large 9x15 square. About 1/4-1/2 inch thick. Spread pie filling evenly on top. In small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle on top of strawberry filling. Roll 15-inch side into a log and pinch the seams. Cut 9-12 slices depending on preference for thickness. Place in greased 9”x13” pan, cover with damp cloth, and let rise for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°. Bake 30mins or until just golden brown on the tops.

Glaze: Beat together cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Add half & half, vanilla, lemon juice and lemon zest until combined. Frost warm rolls.

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J UNE 2020  GEO R GE TO W N V I EW

parting shot

A New Normal: Worship

Top photo: Church elder David Lehmann, riding Sheriff, visiting with congregants before the service.

Phil Glaser & Gonzalez Berrios open the service • Pastor Berrios’ family enjoying service together. • Pastor Alex Berrios speaking about Psalms.

C

A N D W E K N O W T H AT I N A L L T H I N G S G O D W O R K S F O R T H E G O O D O F T H O S E W H O LO V E H I M , W H O H AV E B E E N C A L L E D A CCO R D I N G TO H I S P U R P O S E . ~ R O M A N S 8:28

hisholm Trail Cowboy Church in Weir is one of many churches holding modified services to ensure they are in compliance with orders regarding gatherings. As of the May 17 services, churches were allowed to fill an inside room to 25 percent of regular capacity. Church member Debbie Tolliver says, “It’s just not right to be at the door and decide which 25 percent of our church family should come in. It would be a shame to get dressed up and come all the way here, only to be turned away.”

Chisholm Trail has been holding parking lot services for several weeks and a few members expressed delight in the change. “Before we had our building, we used to meet in a tent and this a hearkening back to those days.

It’s a ‘cowboy’ church after all, and we all love being outside.”

Pastor Alex Berrios says, “We understand people have different opinions about safety, but we want to keep things on an even plane; if you drive by and feel safe, come on in. We are doing our best to provide ministry

where folks are comfortable.

Being outside is a little extra work, but I enjoy being here in person while also streaming for those who are more comfortable watching from home. That’s been a blessing really — we have more people participating than ever before. “ Staff at the church are diligent about keeping the building clean in preparation for having everyone back inside, even as children’s church and other things are added back gradually. For this season, at least, hearing a message of faith while sitting in lawn chairs with the whole family, in the sunshine, listening to Christian country music, hearing doves and the lowing of nearby cows, hardly seems to be a downside.

Pastor Alex says, “We do church a little different, tearing down barriers so folks feel comfortable coming to Jesus as they are.” Chisholm Trail services are Sundays at 10am and you can find all their information at ChishomTrailCowboyChurch.org.

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