Georgetown View Magazine • July 2020

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WE BUILD COMMUNITY

REEL LIFE

GEORGETOWN: COMING TO A SCREEN NEAR YOU Live Your Best Life At Home Solutions for a stay-at-home lifestyle Page 24

McCasland Christian Academy Continuing the Shining Star Legacy Page 39

Too Hot For Stovetop Creative & cool recipes for the hottest days Page 60

contents FEATURES 8 SIX PACK OF NON-PROFITS Hidden blessings of COVID create better service 16 REEL LIFE A film in Georgetown and a festival to put it in 28 WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS” America’s Second Independence Day

FAVORITES 20 EDUCATION Grace Academy stands apart by standing together 24 HOME & GARDEN Solutions for a stay-athome lifestyle 34 HEALTHY HABITS Good habits for any time 36 KIDS Cordovan Art School open for summer 40 WINE 101 Summer Food Pairings 42 WORTH THE DRIVE Topsey Exotic Ranch 46 FIVE QUESTIONS GISD Trustee Andy Webb

28 THE MOST TEXAS-Y THINGS ABOUT TEXAS Texas is the founding place of Juneteenth, a celebration of the end of slavery in the United States.

Ours is the state that officially recognized it as a holiday, and Georgetown has been celebrating for nearly seven decades.

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Georgetown in the movies: Erik Bernard prepares for a scene on the downtown Square.

50 AROUND TOWN Inner Space Caverns

ON THE COVER

53 POPPY TALKS Is it just me...?

57 FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Human Body

Behind the camera during filming in Austin and Georgetown with actors David Madison and Nikki Weiland.

Photos courtesy of Carol Whitney, Fifty Clicks Photography

60 FOOD Too Hot for Stovetop 63 PARTING SHOT Paradidomi Project gives back to Georgetown first responders

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

ANN MARIE KENNON EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s been one year since I wrote my first editor’s note and, although the year could not have been any more unpredictable, I still say it was worth the wait in my career to become an editor, so I could meet and write about the people, events, and ideas across Georgetown in this special magazine.

Even though summer seemed to come out of nowhere (since we spent our spring inside) I’m glad we are able to explore a little more this month. We have a great mix of fun things to do, and happy things to think about in this issue, and I hope our features will be as inspiring to you as they were in the writing. It’s not often you meet a filmmaker who not only lives in Georgetown, but also uses it in his movies!

And, as we frequently do, we heap plenty of praise on the non-profits that give Georgetown the reputation of generosity it is known for far and wide.

I’m also pleased to have learned so much about the legacy of Juneteenth here in Georgetown from Paulette Taylor. If you haven’t met her yet, she’s a treasure of our city’s history.

Already looking ahead, our recurring “Five Questions” is a visit with GISD Trustee Andy Webb who, like most of us, is hoping for the best for the next school year.

Incidentally, while writing that story, I discovered saying “TwentyTwentyTwentyTwentyOne school year” takes a bit of practice!

Meanwhile—remembering some of my most exciting Independence Days...

Happy Birthday, America! ‘cause there ain’t no doubt, I love this land...

God Bless the U.S.A.

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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Thomas Higgs 1935-2020

This issue is dedicated to the memory of Thomas Higgs. Tom will be remembered as a generous and loyal friend, and the hardest of workers. We will miss his encouragement, optimism, and abundant humor. We are blessed to have had him on our team.

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six pack of seniors

Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

NON-PROFIT (R)EVOLUTION DUE TO THE RECENT NATIONAL CRISIS, MANY NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN GEORGETOWN ARE FINDING NEW AND ADAPTIVE WAYS TO RAISE MONEY AND WORK TOGETHER. THE RESULTING COLLABORATIONS ARE HAVING GREATER IMPACT ON FUNDRAISING AND CHANGES IN PARTNERSHIPS, WHICH MEANS BETTER SERVICE TO THOSE IN NEED.

Photo courtesy BiG

BiG BLESSINGS

Far from stopping the BROOKWOOD IN GEORGETOWN (BiG) mission to help adults with special needs lead meaningful lives through vocational opportunities, COVID-19 merely changed the way the nonprofit fulfilled it.

Through virtual services and an expanded online store, BiG learned to adapt during the health crisis and emerged a stronger, more close-knit family.

“Not that I would wish this on anybody, but there were some real blessings in disguise,” says founder and executive director Erin Kiltz. “It made us even more grateful than ever before for BiG and the community it offers our citizens and the support to our citizens’ families.”

To continue operating during the pandemic, workers had to reinvent the BiG experience. Citizens switched to making jewelry, pottery, and masks from home, and stayed engaged with friends and staff through Zoom meetings, daily devotionals, and fun costume parties. The café and shop began curbside service, and the nonprofit’s online store, which had offered only a few products before coronavirus, now sells more than 160 items from the shop at 905 N. Church St. The café and shop reopened May 4, and BiG has welcomed back all 80 citizens across three campuses.

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six-pack of non-profits

It’s full speed ahead for BiG, which will launch The BiG Pie Company July 31 during the dedication of the new Amazing Grace workspace building. Construction of the organization’s first two residential homes for citizens will also begin in the next month.

Through it all, workers have striven to see COVID-19 not as a setback, but as an opportunity to learn how to do better.

RIDING THROUGH

BEHIND THE MASKS

For RIDE ON CENTER FOR KIDS (ROCK), a nonprofit that relies on the physical connection between the horse and rider, COVID-19 hit hard.

“It’s important that we not just make it through, but come out on the other side thriving,” Tina says.

The organization provides equine-assisted activities and therapies to children, adults and veterans with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges. It closed its doors in March, reopening in June with an initial wave of nine riders out of its usual weekly 200.

During the closure, staff cared for the facility and its 31 horses while staying connected with participants through Zoom meetings. Moving into the digital world was challenging for the nonprofit, which depends on riders’ physical presence, but ROCK made up for it by hosting a drive-by version of Rodeo Day, a time full of tears and smiles with more than 60 participants and their families cruising through the arena to see their horses.

ROCK honored its volunteers the same way on Volunteer Appreciation Day. “We’re getting really good at handling whatever life throws our way,” marketing manager Tina Clary says.

One of those curve balls was having to reschedule ROCK’s annual barn dance, now set for September 26.

The delay put a financial strain on the nonprofit, which already suffered from losing $90,000 in rider tuition. A Pony Up for ROCK campaign helped by raising more than $50,000.

Photo by Nick Austin

Having to cancel six fundraisers forced Nick Austin to find creative ways to raise money without holding big gatherings.

Nick is the founder of WE ARE NOT BROKEN and photographs women with scars to show they are beautiful, strong and above all, not broken. Nick launched a Behind the Masks in Williamson County project to highlight life during the pandemic.

“It’s about capturing a time in history and also for the benefit of We Are Not Broken,” she says.

She has photographed more than 100 masked residents, from business owners and politicians to high school seniors, health care workers and people with special needs. They will be featured in a book later this year that showcases how they have been impacted by the pandemic. Nick’s vision includes a poster exhibit circling the courthouse, “the heart of Williamson County.” 

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six-pack of non-profits

Another COVID-19 casualty has been WANB’s annual gala, which Nick will replace with a 5K run January 17 to coincide with We Are Not Broken Day. She has also been working on another book since before COVID-19, which will feature We Are Not Broken women in the hopes of changing the beauty narrative.

“Society puts a label on someone because they’re scarred or have physical abnormalities. They’ve conquered a major life battle and come out changed physically. Now they’re ridiculed for that because of the way they look. That’s what I’m trying to change,” Nick says.

“Let’s look at scars as strength, a fight, a victory. We shouldn’t look at someone as broken.”

ONWARD IN ADVOCACY

While supporting and advocating for child victims of abuse and violence requires a lot of face-to-face interaction, the WILLIAMSON COUNTY CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER did not miss a beat in providing counseling, health resources, and investigative support, despite recent changes in operations.

CEO Kerrie Stannell explains, “Unfortunately, abuse does not stop and we did not have the option to shut down, so we maintained strong virtual connections wherever possible. We had significant success in telehealth and, for some clients, being able to get services in the safety of their own home was helpful. We are pleased to know this is a viable, and achievable option when we need it. Some clients are responding better than before, so we’re glad we had the opportunity to discover that.”

WCCAC Designer Purse Raffle July 17 • 6pm on Facebook Live Photo courtesy WCCAC

purchase a $50 ticket,” Tiffany says, “But we are thrilled about how easy it will be for anyone in the world to tune in and learn about us while enjoying the show.”

On the business side, WCCAC also created training for an online audience, and a virtual tour. What was previously only available to local residents and professionals is now open 24/7 to a worldwide audience, and Kerrie says they have seen traffic from Houston to as far as India and Greece. “It is wonderful to see interested parents, or people looking to augment their understanding of critical topics. If the pandemic had not triggered a greater need, we may never have had the opportunity to develop this new, online presence. Educating people beyond our County is something we look forward to continuing as we maneuver changes and challenges to come.”

Kerrie and Tiffany agree they just want the community to have fun with their events, share a passion for the cause, and hopefully attend an online event that will inspire them to participate as a donor, volunteer, or advocate in the future. Visit Wilcocac.org/purse-bingo to purchase a ticket to the July 17 virtual event.

Tiffany Sturman, Director of Community Engagement, says the team has been pleasantly surprised to find how much they can accomplish online. “This pushed us to re-think our online environment; converting traditional events into something people can do in their homes. I’m very optimistic about adding new layers to our fundraising and awareness efforts. Big galas are exciting, but they are really only possible once a year. We are now thinking about trivia nights and bi-monthly engagements that don’t require as many resources to pull together, but help keep us top of mind with our supporters.”

Stay Home, Stay Safe orders were problematic for Georgetown’s homeless, but Bob Weimer of HELPING HANDS OF GEORGETOWN says the pandemic only served to alter the way in which he served this community. “People have their own spaces, live in proximity to each other in tents or other shelters for safety, but they distanced themselves. We know where they are and we came to them.”

The Center had scheduled a “Hope, Heroes & Handbags” bingo fundraiser, featuring firefighters and police officers as purse ‘models,’ but converted to Facebook Live and a raffle. The models are still in play and anyone on Facebook can attend. “The raffle is open to those who

Bob’s volunteers continued to serve nearly 1,400 bag lunches each week, and instead of Sunday dinner at the library, Helping Hands created and distributed Family Bags to-go. “We anticipated, and saw the number of families in need nearly double since March. A Family Bag

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HELPING HANDS

six-pack of non-profits Leslie Janca makes her case for The NEST at the Georgetown Project for a Seeds of Strength YouTube presentation.

has three complete meals and we have also delivered more than 400 bags of pantry goods as well.”

Helping Hands also added greater quantities of clothing and toiletries for up to 600 people each week to help them get back on their feet.

“We partnered with Days Inn to help families with children; we are not willing to have families sleep in a vehicle unless we have to. People deserve the dignity of a shower, communications via cell phones and minutes provided by Cricket. Most of all, there was nothing to stop us from providing a non-judgemental ear to listen and guide people to any resource we can find.”

Serendipitously, Helping Hands recently moved into permanent office space, which facilitates safe storage for fresh produce, meal preparation, and space to sort and store clothing.

Bob says his volunteers and friends are enjoying the changes and additions and, moving forward, he plans to continue the new with the old. “Family bags will be a blessing for families with children in school.”

Helping is as easy as stopping by the library parking lot at 3:30pm Mon-Thurs or 4:30pm on Sundays to donate clothing, toiletries, or money. You can donate financially on HelpingHandsGTX.org.

STRENGTH WITHOUT BOUNDS

Not only did Georgetown’s non-profits adapt to new partnerships and processes, one of the city’s biggest benefactors did the same—to help themselves continue to help others.

Photo courtesy SeedsOfStrength.org

Since 2009, the SEEDS OF STRENGTH giving circle has given nearly $1.5million to Georgetown’s non-profits and charities. Normally, organizations submit applications and finalists make stage presentations at the annual membership meeting to advocate for votes and a share of the combined funds.

This year, the pandemic caused several changes, but didn’t stop the members from sharing $210,000 among 12 Georgetown grantees.

While the members were not able to meet in person to review the applications, the committee provided online packages to describe and detail the accomplishments and missions of each. Following, the president and committee chair live-streamed the four-minute presentations on YouTube, to allow members the opportunity to ‘meet’ the staff and volunteers who have boots on the ground.

Members were sent online ballots and voted electronically from among a mix of prior grantees and new non profits, all of whom were carefully vetted and ranked by the grants committee. The 2020 recipients were Boys & Girls Club Georgetown ($25,000), Brookwood in Georgetown ($25,000), Capital IDEA ($25,000), CASA of Williamson County ($24,000), Faith in Action Georgetown ($19,500), Girlstart ($20,000), Hope Alliance ($25,000, STARRY, Inc. ($20,000), The Georgetown Project ($25,000); and $500 each for Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County, ROCK, and Sacred Heart Community Center.

Terri Boroczk, Grants Chair, was pleased with the result, however unconventional it may have been; “While we wish we could have gathered in person for this most important Seeds of Strength meeting, we appreciate our members’ flexibility in working with us in convening in this virtual fashion. Now more than ever, our wonderful nonprofits are providing help to our Georgetown residents in need.”

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experience georgetown

Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Pandemic Plot Twist Moves Film Festival Online

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s the founder of the GTX Film Festival, Cindy Weigand is used to movie drama. She didn’t, however, expect such drama to unfold off the screen in 2020.

She had hoped to host the second annual event at its usual City Lights Theater venue this year, but after the world became locked in a pandemic, Cindy decided the show must go on— virtually.

Viewers can enjoy 20 films from all over the world July 23-25 through a Vimeo link at gtxfilm.org.

“Normal patterns of life have been interrupted,” says Erik Bernard, GTX Film board president. “People still need a way to connect to the outside world.”

TLG Motion Pictures will sponsor the festival—another addition to Georgetown’s growing film scene. Cindy says, “The festival is a celebration of independent film. These films are not funded by Sony or Disney. They’re truly independent, and often supported by crowdfunding campaigns. We celebrate their efforts and recognize their art, which can lead to the films being picked up for greater distribution.”

Featured categories include narrative feature and short films, documentary, student, Texas-made, and mobile. Movies are recommended for individuals 18 years of age and older, except “Tin Can”, “The Drone”, and “Hiko in Tonga - A Culture Almost Lost”, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Live-streamed Q&A sessions with filmmakers following screenings are in the works.

To promote businesses, festival organizers encourage them to host watch parties. Businesses with a screen, projector, and sound system interested in sponsoring a watch party can contact Cindy at director@gtxfilm.org.

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Georgetown, A Cinema Destination in the Making

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ome locations in the movie, “The Place We Hide”, might look familiar to us locals. Filmmaker Erik Bernard shot the thriller almost entirely in Georgetown.

Through his movie, Erik hopes to pave the way for other filmmakers to put Georgetown on the silver screen.

As the president of GTX Film’s board of directors, he also hopes the upcoming GTX Film Festival, and “The Place We Hide” will advance the city’s growing status as a film destination and draw other artists to “our amazing town.”

His film, “The Place We Hide,” centers on two characters who have been shaped by tragedy and dark secrets. One, a brilliant hypnotherapist, has overcome adversity to reinvent herself through a hard-earned second chance and chooses to be a guide to others in search of salvation and redemption.

She collides with a salesman committed to serve society as a violent agent of karma, believing that perpetrators don’t deserve a second chance. Confronting unyielding justice and redemption, two contrasting philosophies play out a game of life and death, revisiting the darkest events they have tried to hide.

experience georgetown For information and to watch the films, check out GTXfilm.org.

Erik Bernard (center in red) prepares for a scene at Austin Ave. & 8th St. David Yusel Madison (far right) stars as Jack in “The Place We Hide”.

Viewers might find themselves debating whether people can redeem themselves or if unrelenting justice is the only way to go.

Erik hopes to feature his movie at the Austin Film Festival and the Fantastic Fest, another annual film festival in Austin, in the fall.

His journey to film-making began on his third combat tour in Afghanistan when the taxing environment began to wear on him. “I knew I needed an outlet.”

He found it in writing. “It gave me a window to go somewhere else for a while,” he says. His writing sparked a film-making dream, and his screenplays have since garnered awards from international festivals and competitions.

Having lived on the road the past few years, Erik wanted to film something closer to home, leading to “The Place We Hide.” He directed the movie as Rebel 6 Films, which he co-founded with his wife to produce Texas-made films. He built sets at a warehouse off of Shell Road and shot scenes in the library and on the Square, expressing gratitude to the City of Georgetown and the police department for their support.

His experience involved a lot of hard work and lessons learned, especially as an independent filmmaker, as he had to be mindful of the costs he could and couldn’t cut. His fellow filmmakers, he says, brought contagious energy to the project “and a lot of the same ambition that I have in that they’re looking to get better in their craft.”

In case you’re wondering, at left, David Madison is “in character” as Jack, and not at all missing the charm and ambiance at Austin Ave. and 8th Street in Georgetown.

Photos courtesy of Carol Whitney, Fifty Clicks Photography

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experience georgetown

Festival Screening Schedule THURSDAY, JULY 23 • 6:00 8:30PM

“A Letter Home” A tale of Georgetown’s Field of Honor and the soldier who writes home about his plans to honor the military and first responders with his fellow citizens.

“Inheritance” Wes is a shy boy growing up poor during the Great Depression. His response to bullies is always to turn and run. With his family’s well-being at stake, Wes can’t run anymore.

“Lillian” A teenager cares for her younger sibling and local orphans after her grandmother is killed by the Mexican Army toward the end of the Texas Revolution.

SATURDAY, JULY 25

10AM “The Bronze Fly” A painter gives magic pills to his visually impaired girlfriend, then intentionally loses her in a crowd. Thanks to a painting and the pills that transform the view into a painting style, she will search for the artist and his secret, without suspecting that in the shadows, he will observe her during a passionate quest.

10AM “What Are You Waiting For?” A simple act of kindness can have a profound impact on someone’s life.

10AM “Motivation Monday” Following a fatal accident, a podcaster struggles to balance life without his parents, care for his sister and find words to motivate.

10AM “Perfect Match” A hopeless romantic finds herself at a matchmaker’s office to find a match, but who she meets might not be who you’d expect.

10AM “Heads-Up: Will We Stop Making Cents?”

Should the U.S. eliminate the penny? This documentary explores different sides of the debate, touching on the role of the penny in today’s economy, predictive economic models of a penniless future, and the cultural importance of the coin.

“Bullet Trip” courtesy of director Nozumu Kasagi

“House of Glass” Convinced her husband is cheating, a woman is pushed over the edge.

FRIDAY, JULY 24

2PM “Bullet Trip” Former Shinjuku No.1 male host Noboru slams up the hostess lover Noriko and rushes on the night highway in a “surprise bullet trip.”

2PM “#STEALTH” A story about the hidden lives of some members of the LGBT community.

6PM “Mother’s Day” Jane has the perfect life, perfect family, and the grooviest home in the neighborhood. All that is no match for the painful memories of her childhood on the eve of Mother’s Day. 6PM “Alter” Ana walks home at night, and feels a sense of danger.

6PM “At the End of Eight” Three contestants sneak inside the home of complete strangers as part of a popular, illegal game, which requires the players to stay eight hours without being discovered.

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2PM “Tin Can” J.C. came to America as an illegal immigrant when he was just a child. Now an adult, he’s still illegal but has managed to persevere and prosper as a rodeo clown. However, after a series of unfortunate events, J.C. finds himself down on his luck and in search of new happiness.

2PM “The Drone” A story of DJ, a small quadcopter trying to fit in.

2PM “Hiko in Tonga – A Culture Almost Lost” A multi-generational film of a unique, vanishing culture of Polynesian women jugglers in the Kingdom of Tonga.

6PM “When All That’s Left is Love” A story of a wife’s determination to care for her Alzheimer’s-stricken husband in their home.

6PM “Promise Me” A social drama about a once-flourishing woman now at the end of her life who struggles to ensure that her recently reconciled son doesn’t make the same mistakes she did.

6PM “The Piano Teacher” This documentary is a poetic look at life, age, and memory. Few people progress enough in any art form to reach such a pinnacle of performance and renown but, with time, even the most masterful regress. Skills fade and memories vanish until we return to a childlike state and await that final curtain.

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education

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com Photos courtesy of Grace Academy

Handling the Pandemic with Grace

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hile all of our schools met many challenges of adapting to new rules of compliance this year, private institutions like Grace Academy found a smaller student body allowed them to create a distance learning environment that was as pragmatic as it was personal.

Grace follows a classical education model, which allowed students to continue working from their textbooks and literature books and receive class instruction via group calls on Zoom. Students had all of their books in hand, completed work at home, converted documents to PDF, and sent back to their teachers.

GRACEFUL TRANSITION

Tiffany McLendon, Director of Marketing for the school is well integrated into the instructional side of the school and says the transition was fairly seamless on all sides; “The biggest hurdle was training our faculty in such a short amount of time to use Zoom to our best advantage.

Fortunately, because our teachers are so committed to serving families well, they adapted quickly and the process went pretty smoothly.” She adds, “as a smaller school, we had just one gateway for sharing information and turning in work so parents didn’t have to jump through multiple technological hoops”.

Teachers held regular office hours, regular classroom times, and all Zoom instruction was recorded so students could stream on flexible schedules as necessary, or even watch again to reinforce learning. “Our teachers used their time to really teach. Some even came to the school and taught lessons on whiteboards like they always have. Everything was as close to normal as we could make it; it was just virtual.”

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education

Head of School, Andy Cantwell, comments on the unforeseen blessings as well; “We found many hidden blessings during our time of separation through distance learning; as our faculty had to fully expend themselves to learn a new online approach to delivering instruction, it drew our faculty team closer together; it forced us to prioritize content, which is always a beneficial exercise; and it reinforced partnerships between parents and school faculty.”

Distance learning also proved to have unforeseen benefits for the graduating students, who are all expected to complete a 15-page senior thesis and present it to a live panel of reviewers. “The seniors continued to meet with their thesis advisors online, completed their work at home and made presentations through an online host.

Because of that, we were able to invite and incorporate grandparents, friends and other family members in other states. That element was very special to the students so we may continue to stream that event in the future.”

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS

One thing the private school community shared with other students was the emotional impact of feeling a little out of control of the situation. “As a Christian school, we have a unique dynamic in our relationships. Our community of families and students stayed in touch and checked up on each other. Teachers built in social time at the beginning of Zoom instruction. Kids were able to interact and keep those peer-to-peer relationships intact.

We were grateful that although the campus was closed, relationships were still a priority.”

Mr. Cantwell says, “This was a great testament coming into our 20th anniversary year to be able to adhere to our mission which is “To glorify God by serving parents in providing their children a distinctly Christ-centered, academically excellent, classical education as a foundation for life-long learning”, even through adversity. We are so pleased to provide a place where our families have respite. We didn’t lose the closeness and that was the greatest blessing. In a time of isolation and uncertainty, we were able to share this constant”.

One thing the school made sure to adapt was the annual Rock Ceremony (photo above) during which parents present each student with a rock to commemorate the work the Lord did in that child’s life during the school year. Tiffany says, “The rocks display a character trait and accompanying Bible verse to affirm students in how they have grown throughout the year. I think a lot of rocks probably had ‘perseverance’ on them this year.

Grace Academy plans to open, normally, on August 24.

Visit them at GraceTX.org to learn about their programs, community, and strength.

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home & garden

Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Solutions for the Stay-at-home Lifestyle

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e’ve all been home a lot this year and, even now, we’re contemplating a future in which we continue to spend more time staying home. In light of these changes, many of us have found ourselves taking a closer look at our surroundings than we did in our busy, pre-pandemic lives.

Local design experts Jason Daugherty (Omnia Outdoors) and Gigi Kinsey (Kinsey Interiors and Remodel) shared their expertise about emerging trends, taking advantage of opportunities to talk about changes to our living spaces, and some ideas about enjoying life at home together.

INTERIOR THOUGHTS

You might find yourself working from home and need to turn your dining room into an office. Or you notice the flooring looks old and worn. Maybe the walls need new paint. You decide it’s time to spruce up your living quarters, but how and where to start?

Whether you want a full remodel or need some updates to put your house on the market, Gigi Kinsey of Kinsey Interiors and Remodel (KinseyInteriors.com) has some philosophy and ideas about transforming your indoors.

REMODEL OR UPDATE?

The first question to ask is if you will live in your home five years or longer. If you plan to move soon, updating surfaces is the way to go instead of full-fledged remodeling. If you’re planning a long stay, remodel to fit your needs and lifestyle.

FUNCTION, THEN AESTHETICS

You might want that gorgeous home straight out of a magazine, but Gigi suggests focusing on function before choosing color, style and surface materials.

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“If you remodel things to fit your lifestyle and how you function, you’re going to enjoy your home and be much more comfortable and maybe safer,” Gigi says.

Ask these questions: How do I use my space? Am I casual, formal, or need space for both? Do I entertain a lot of people frequently or is it typically just my immediate family? Do I want finishes that are easy to care for? Am I all right with finishes that are more delicate or in need of more upkeep?

PROJECTS

Remodeling kitchens and master baths will give the biggest return dollar for dollar. They are also the most influential in a home sale.

Adding another bathroom, if needed, is another project with a big money return.

Updating surfaces in the kitchen such as countertops and backsplash, and update appliances if needed

• Change out countertops and plumbing fixtures in bathrooms. Replace framed shower glass with clear frameless glass.

• Replace dated or worn flooring.

• Change out lighting fixtures, which can transform the whole style of a home.

• Replace dated hardware such as cabinet pulls, towel bars and door hardware.

• Paint walls, trim and cabinets.

A sample of Jason’s vision for outdoor living spaces.

Warm lighting and ottomans not only provide comfort, but also conversation spaces and perimeters for entertainment areas.

THINKING “OUTSIDE”

Jason Daugherty is the owner and designer of Omnia Outdoors (OmniaOutdoors.com), with a solid philosophy on creating a seamless transition from your interior style and comfort level to your outdoor environment. “When I visit a client, just walking from the front door to the back, I notice the textures and style of everything from their furniture to their kitchen backsplash. I imagine all the ways I can extend that look and feel into a monolithic design from interior to exterior.”

Jason says current trends include incorporating hard and softscapes together—many people are expanding their patio space, and also adding herb gardens. Even more basic, you can add a second grill; charcoal for entertaining and a propane for day-to-day.

For comfort, outdoor furniture has become more comprehensive; not just a few lawn chairs, but something that reflects the home interior. Adding potted plants will re-create the homey feel, and, he adds, “landscape lighting can go a long way to adding a soft warm feel to your space. Most people use 2700 lumen lighting inside; having that soft look outside extends the warmth of your home. It also helps create greater perimeter security.”

A NEW VISION

Jason recommends homeowners looking to make a change take a look around their interior and think of ways to re-create the same−but outside. “People who worked a lot now have time to discuss the possibilities, and having a designer will help them figure out their

vision. They may not be sure what they want, but they always know what they like. Great change is not always about a pool or outdoor kitchen; we just aim for that seamless transition from landscaping, beds, plants, and furniture, all the way into the house. A home owner’s goal should be to bridge that gap, recognizing that it’s not just the purview of resorts or the wealthy to have cool entertaining spaces.”

EXPERT ASSISTANCE

Jason says the goal is to blend landscapes and interior to create more livable square footage in the home space.

“Your home is not just inside your house; it’s everything from your back fence to your driveway. Ideally, everything in between reflects your personality and your comfort level.”

Even home design is beginning to reflect this trend.

Builders are looking at how people live today and designing new homes accordingly. “We don’t all want 3,000-5,000 square feet any more; we are expanding decking and outdoor living for entertainment, and cutting back on the footprint the house makes on the property. There is a lot of potential for having beautiful views, breathing room, and a comfortable space in which to spend all our new time at home.”

With plenty of options—from DIY to construction—having experts like Jason can help your vision take shape and reveal the sanctuary that was in your backyard all along. “It’s important to plan, pull your aesthetic elements together, and see all that is possible.”

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

part 7

JUNETEENTH

AMERICA’S SECOND INDEPENDENCE DAY [ B L A C K S A N D W H I T E S ] M AY H AV E G OT T E N T H E R E I N D I F F E R E N T WAY S A N D AT D I F F E R E N T T I M E S , B U T YO U C A N ’ T R E A L LY C E L E B R AT E F R E E D O M I N A M E R I C A B Y J U S T G O I N G W I T H T H E F O U R T H O F J U LY. ~ REVEREND RONALD MEYERS, FOUNDER AND FORMER CHAIRMAN, N AT I O N A L J U N E T E E N T H O B S E R VA N C E F O U N D AT I O N

ON JUNE 19-20, THE CITY OF GEORGETOWN HELD ITS ANNUAL JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION. COMMUNITY MEMBERS, MYRIAD CIVIC GROUPS, CHURCHES, AND LOCAL AGENCIES HAVE HELD THESE PUBLIC EVENTS FOR 68 YEARS. THIS YEAR, LIKE MANY, THE GEORGETOWN CULTURAL CITIZEN MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION DID NOT LET COVID CHANGE THEIR COMMITMENT TO RECOGNIZE “EMANCIPATION DAY”.

IN 1980, TEXAS WAS THE FIRST STATE TO DECLARE JUNETEENTH A STATE HOLIDAY.

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

what makes Texas “Texas”

J

uneteenth is a day that traditionally recognizes the end of slavery in the United States. While many believe Abraham Lincoln’s executive order, known as the Emancipation Proclamation, “freed the slaves”, his 1863 order was just the first step.

IN BRIEF

President Lincoln signed the document on September 22, 1862, and it became official January 1, 1863. It effectively changed the legal status—from slave to Juneteenth celebration in 1900 at Eastwoods Park in Austin. free—of more than 3.5 million African Photo from Austin History Center Americans. However, the order was not recognized, nor would it be enforced, by Initially called “Jubilee Day” or “Emancipation Day”, states rebelling against the Union. But, once a slave esthe biggest celebrations emerged in Galveston in the caped the control of the Confederacy, by moving across years following General Granger’s proclamation. In those Union lines, or through the efforts of federal troops, he early years, it flourished, year over year, as former slaves or she was permanently free. Following, all others were returned to the city where it all happened, and new genlegally freed either by state action, or when the 13th erations learned about and grew in appreciation of their Amendment was ratified in December 1865. parents and grandparents. As more families emigrated from Texas, they took the tradition with them and continued the celebration, first in border states, and eventually coast to coast.

Texas was geographically isolated from the significant

MEANWHILE, IN TEXAS...

battles of the Civil War and, in a time without mass communication, slavery persisted in the state, even after the Confederacy surrendered in April 1865. Finally, on June 19, Major General Gordon Granger and 2,000 Union soldiers landed at Galveston. He read aloud from General Order Number 3:

THE PEOPLE OF TEXAS ARE INFORMED T H AT I N A CCO R D A N C E W I T H A P R O C L A M AT I O N F R O M T H E E X E C U T I V E O F T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S , A L L S L AV E S A R E F R E E .

T H I S I N V O LV E S A N A B S O LU T E E Q UA L I T Y O F RIGHTS AND RIGHTS OF PROPERTY B E T W E E N F O R M E R M A S T E R S A N D S L AV E S , A N D T H E CO N N E C T I O N H E R E TO F O R E E X I S T I N G B E T W E E N T H E M B E CO M E S T H AT B E T W E E N E M P LOY E R A N D H I R E D L A B O R E R .

“JUNETEENTH” BEGINS

History says reactions among the 250,000 Texas freedmen were mixed—from disbelief to being gone before the General even finished reading the statement. Never the less, a great annual convergence of music, feasts, and rodeos, took root over the following decades.

The day was first celebrated in Austin in 1867, and in 1872, black leaders purchased land specifically designated for the annual event, now known as Emancipation Park. Celebrations across Texas continued to grow and by the 1890s, the name had commonly changed to Juneteenth.

In the 20th century, the Great Depression, World War II, and Civil Rights Movement brought many changes to the African-American community, and Juneteenth celebrations experienced surges and revivals over time; it was even an official destination at the Texas State Fair from 1936 to 1951.

In 1979, Texas state legislator Al Edwards was the first to introduce a bill to make Juneteenth a legal holiday and the first state-approved celebration took place in 1980. Since then, all but three states have passed legislation to officially recognize June 19th, or the third Saturday in June, as an official holiday or observance.

Today, activists and advocate organizations are lobbying in Congress to recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday. 

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what makes Texas “Texas” IN GEORGETOWN

Paulette Taylor has been a Georgetown resident all her life.

At 73, she has seen many changes in the city and been a vital part of the tradition of our 68 Juneteenth celebrations.

“Juneteenth was born when slavery died. As a young girl, we didn’t really celebrate much around July 4th. I heard some of the older people say ‘We already had our celebration and this is theirs.’”

Paulette remembers celebrating Juneteenth as early as 1951, with events in Carver Park.* The annual event included yesteryear parades with floats and people in costume, baseball games, and a presentation of the John Orgain Community Service award. Mr. Orgain was a prominent citizen and chef at Southwestern University, well-known for his contributions to Juneteenth.

She recalls, “No matter what, there was always a big barbecue served for free. The older men would stay up the night before to cook the meat for the gatherings.

During the day, all the ladies would gather there as well and cook; it was a fabulous time and a wonderful celebration.”

She says in the 1960s, when attitudes became more open, the celebration moved to the expanses of San Gabriel Park; “San Gabriel was not a place we usually went. But the park was big, and Juneteenth was big. It was always more than just one day—sometimes it lasted the whole week.”

As the festival drew more and more young people and became quite popular, programs evolved. “Young people didn’t want to stay up all night cooking,” she laughs, “But we’ve added gospel choirs, basketball tournaments; and themed presentations with speakers, programs, and booths for education and resources.” Paulette also founded the Miss Juneteenth pageant at the community center, which drew young ladies from all over Williamson County. “It grew so much in popularity that we added a Junior and Little Miss to the program.”

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR FREEDOM?”

This year’s Juneteenth was affected by COVID but was no less impactful for the community. Paulette says, “I spoke to Al Edwards once and he encouraged me to keep doing what I was doing, even if other areas didn’t do it. We continue to invite speakers and I always want our programs to include historical things but also encourage young people to reflect on ‘What are you doing with your freedom, and what will you explore with it?’”

To comply with social distancing rules, the GCCMA held multiple virtual panels on YouTube, including GISD and college representatives as well as community leaders with technical skills and social resources. “We considered the options we had but, more than anything, we wanted to be sure we would have a presence. The virtual town hall meeting theme was ‘Embracing Change: The New Norm.” Leaders from The Caring Place, Boys & Girls Club, Salvation Army, and the Georgetown Health Foundation addressed key areas of education and social issues. City Manager David Morgan said it was a “Great opportunity of remembrance, recognition, and an opportunity to express hope and promise for the future.”

Below: Dr. Alicia Moore (top,center) moderated the virtual Town Hall June 20. At right, previous Juneteenth celebrations at the Community Center— songs, speakers, and tabletop booths.

*Carver Park was on W. 17th Street in Georgetown before it was sold to GISD for $1 to build Westside Elementary, later renamed Carver Elementary.

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healthy habits

Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Good Habits Aren’t Just for Pandemics

Y

ou’ve probably been bombarded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s handwashing campaign in recent months. But considering the many other viruses that have always been around, you might wonder, shouldn’t people practice good health habits all the time, not just during a pandemic?

Deb Strahler with the Williamson County and Cities Health District provided some tips on staying healthy all the time. “Every day, you come into contact with millions of outside germs and viruses,” she says. “They can linger on your body, and in some cases, they may make you sick. Personal hygiene practices can help you and the people around you prevent illnesses all year long.”

Refilling a disposable plastic water bottle too often, or a reusable bottle without washing it may result in large amounts of bacteria—including E. coli. Over time, chemicals leach from dirty plastic bottles and can lead to more serious conditions.

EVERYONE ELSE DOES IT

If you’re touching fixtures or multi-use items in public, a lot of other people are too. While hand wipes are hard to come by right now, keep in mind...

Using gloves is only helpful as long as you change them between surface touches. Otherwise, you are just transferring bacteria from one location to another.

If your restaurant does not use single-use paper menus, request a cleaned one.

Shopping cart handles carry Salmonella, and E. Coli, and other organisms. (Univ. of AZ studies)

Following are some things not to be overlooked in our daily lives—even while we’re focused on temporal concerns like masks and distancing—and perhaps should continue doing even after the current crisis.

A study by the maker of Kleenex found 71% of gas pump handles were found to have high levels of contamination. If you don’t have gloves or wipes, grab a paper towel from the window washing stand.

For more information about staying healthy throughout the year, visit cdc.gov/HealthyLiving.

We already know our bills and coins are not clean, but ATMs are also covered in microbes from human skin, similar to those found in bathrooms. It is best to disinfect after using rather than wiping the keyboard first and potentially transferring germs to your finger.

Cleaning and disinfecting are not the same thing.

Cleaning removes germs from surfaces, whereas disinfecting destroys them. Cleaning with soap and water to remove dirt and most of the germs is usually enough.

Often, you may want to disinfect for an extra level of protection from germs. In some instances, germs live on surfaces for hours or days.

Consider hanging clothes in the sun to dry. The sun’s rays will kill some germs and parasites.

Sharing bath towels can spread or transfer germs and bacteria. If someone in the household is ill, keep those towels and cloths separate.

Wash your sheets frequently. Bacteria multiply rapidly in unwashed bed sheets—and pajamas and clothing— which can lead to infections.

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For less than $100, a handheld, portable UVC light device will deactivate bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces (do not use on skin).

If those don’t convince you, (from State Food Safety)...

• • • • • •

Toilet seat: 1,201 bacteria / square inch

Kitchen counter: 1,736 bacteria / square inch Pet food dish: 2,110 bacteria / square inch

Checkout screen: 4,500 bacteria / square inch Doorknob: 8,643 bacteria / square inch

Cell phone: 25,127 bacteria / square inch

Meet Our Newest Writer, Charlotte Kovalchuk For many readers, Charlotte may need no introduction. You have probably met, or at least seen her, at many Georgetown events and happenings for the past several years.

Covering the Georgetown community isn’t hard for Charlotte—after all, it’s been her home for the last 20 years. She loves Georgetown, from its charming downtown and mom and pop shops to its amazing library and scenic parks.

Charlotte holds a Bachelor’s in English and has a background in journalism. She now works as a freelance writer for several local publications, including, now, the Georgetown View. She is excited to come on board and use her pen to uplift readers with inspiring tales of the life, activities, and people of Georgetown, Texas.

Our editorial board is delighted to have a seasoned writer like Charlotte join our staff. She has a good eye and ear for what makes a great story, and a thoughtful curiosity about people and places.

We look forward to reading and sharing her work with you in this issue and many to come.

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kids

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Helping Kids Find and Lose Themselves this Summer

W

hile many traditional summer activities may not be available this year, the Cordovan Art School is open, and ready to help kids escape the heat, lose themselves in all kinds of creative endeavors, and discover genius they didn’t know they had.

SUMMER CAMPS

Camps are going on now, and there are weekly halfand full-day sessions still available to start until August 17. Located in Georgetown behind the Art Center at 816 S. Main St., classes are structured for students as young as five years old, using combinations of traditional painting and drawing techniques.

Artist and owner John Howell adds there are camps at all of his six studios to accommodate families who perhaps live in Georgetown but work elsewhere in the Austin metro area, so they can drop-off and pick up around a workday schedule.

ABOUT CORDOVAN

John always wanted to be an artist and received his degree in illustration. After he graduated and began working, he quickly realized an artist’s life can be lonely and he really wanted to be with people. Soon after, he began teaching classes, which grew into a full-time studio.

He came to Texas to pursue a number of creative ventures, including architecture and real estate. “When the real estate market crashed, I went back to my art roots, found there was a need for this kind of passion and education, and opened my first studio in Round Rock in 2009.

When he heard the Georgetown Art Center was looking to grow their classroom space, a great partnership was born. “We love being downtown on the Square.

There is a lot of foot traffic, and the city was eager to promote art on the Square. Best of all, we have a splash pad right outside our door. It is a win-win because there are great volunteers at the center, so someone is always here to share information about the school. Everyone pitches in and does the jobs that need to be done; it’s just what we do.”

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Courtesy of John Howell

John says Cordovan is about creative people. “Everyone is creative; we just think and learn differently. Some people are creative lawyers and compose great arguments. We just need to remind ourselves, in this age of standardization, creativity is critical for problem solving.

It’s just a bonus that stretching those muscles can also bring joy to your day.”

Case in point, Cordovan founded the Chalk Walk in Round Rock, which has become Round Rock’s version of a Poppyfest. “I started with one person in 2010, and it has grown to the point that the city took over—last year we had 45,000 visitors. There is so much to do, contests, and an amazing amount of artwork. “ (Scheduled for October 2020) But his first love is still teaching. He has learned, by combining instructional skills with personal experiences, that while children want their artwork to be perfect, they still want it to be their own. Teachers assist in ways that help them achieve that dual goal; “We simply look for moments of growth and celebrate them.”

kids

GETTING CREATIVE

All of the studios teach painting and drawing techniques in many combinations of media; watercolors, acrylics, pen and pencil, and graphite. The Round Rock and Austin locations also provide classes in 3-D rendering.

Teachers in the 10-and-under classes show students how its done with step-by-step instruction on technique. “Kids love to ad-lib,” John says. “At a certain age, they begin to make decisions on their own and teachers work person-to-person, which helps them recognize a student’s learning style. Instruction is adapted for those who are ready to be original; we pivot from things like stroke and technique to advanced topics like how light works.”

John says art is for every child, and he loves to hear stories of the impressions his classes leave. “Art is a wonderful activity for summer enrichment, and we have parents of special needs students with heartwarming stories of impact and focus. I love being able to be part of those discoveries. The really fun part is seeing the joy of the parents when the child shows so much pride in his or her work.”

WHEN YOU GO

Right now, Cordovan is following guidelines for lower capacity and health procedures, but there are openings in all classes.

After summer camp, classes are held weekly in the evenings, and all students are invited to participate in annual art shows. There are plenty of classes for parents as well, including the latest “Bob Ross” painting classes, which are sometimes available via Zoom.

Visit CordovanArtSchool.com for details.

In case you were wondering, CORDOVAN is this rich shade of burgundy, and also considered a dark shade of rose. It takes its name from the city of Córdoba, Spain, where the production of cordovan leather was first practiced in the seventh century.

Left page: John Howell and Tejini (12) at last year’s art show.

Top right: Anime art class for teens • Romelie (12) • Caitlyn (9) and Christela (9) at summer camp J U LY 2 0 2 0  G E O R G E TO W N V I E W

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rs. Mac’s Shining Stars is indeed known for creating little shining stars in the community. Many parents, like Ashley Dunn, have enjoyed seeing their kids shine their light, thanks to a firm foundation of Christ-centered education, provided by the school and daycare.

A Small School Growing Big Hearts

So, when Linda “Mrs. Mac” McCasland announced she would continue the daycare but close the school, Ashley, mother of three of those shining stars, refused to let that light dim. She and other families have loved seeing their kids thrive at Mrs. Mac’s Shining Stars, a staple in the Georgetown community since 1998.

In 2009, Mrs. Mac expanded her daycare program into primary education and opened “Phase 2” for 1st through 5th grades. To make sure that legacy would continue, Ashley acquired the school and renamed it McCasland Christian Academy (MCA) in honor of Mrs. Mac, the heart and soul of the program. “While she is not in the administrative role, she’s still our faith leader and is here for the kids,” Ashley says. “Her love for them is what keeps this place going.”

share the love of Jesus through service projects, from food drives to carols at nursing homes.

As a parent, Ashley can testify to the joy students find at MCA. “My kids don’t want to miss a day,” she says. To learn more, call 512-868-9903 or email admissions@ mcagtx.org.

McCaslandChristianAcademy.org

Like a hidden treasure, MCA is tucked away in the Acrotex Gymnastics building, with a small setting just right for kids to receive one-on-one attention and lots of love. “Even though we’re small, we grow big hearts and awesome students,” Ashley says. “You don’t notice the smallness of the school. It’s a really big family.”

Experienced elementary teachers provide all core subjects, including Bible, language arts, reading, math, science, and social studies. The curriculum is based on the Abeka curriculum and exceeds the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Enrichment programs in computer, Spanish, art, physical education, and music are also provided, as well as daily Bible lessons and weekly services and worship. Terra Nova testing is completed annually to challenge MCA’s standards and allow teachers to implement changes or improvements as necessary.

Learning experiences are enhanced by individual creativity, personal responsibility, and physical activity.

Students are encouraged to have fun and participate in monthly field trips and activities, and every month, they

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39

wine 101

Greta Bauer • Greta@georgetownview.com

Food Pairings

T

FISH

he main idea of wine-food pairings is that certain elements—namely texture and flavor—in food and wine react differently to each other. Finding the right combination of these elements will make your meal more enjoyable. Of course taste, above most things, is subjective, so here are a few things to get started.

First, there are six basic tastes. When deciding on pairings, these are the tastes you should consider: • Acid

• Bitter

• Piquant (Spiciness)

• Fat

• Salt

• Sweet

Acid, bitter, and spice all clash with one another, so avoid pairing highly acidic things with something bitter.

The other three tastes—sweet, fat, and salt—all pair well with each another.

Second, depending on your mood, start with a fixed choice on the food or wine. Whichever you choose first, consider its full flavor palette before researching the best complement.

It’s also a good idea to decant any wine before serving.

This will lessen the sharpness of the tannins, which allows the flavors to mingle.

POULTRY AND MEAT A simple rule for meat pairings is the lighter the meat, the lighter the wine.

Carménère and Merlot are smooth, slightly full-bodied reds. Either is a nice summer choice when served lightly chilled, and is the perfect pair for summer steaks and blackened chicken. Expect flavors of violets and red cherries, and they even work well in a sauce reduction. Also a good choice with Mediterranean salad.

Pinot Noir is arguably the most popular lightbody and fruity red. It is dry, with medium-high acidity and pairs well with grilled chicken, pork, and duck. Also goes well with your favorite pasta dish.

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Fish are divided into categories by texture and flavor. Lighter types clude haddock, perch, tilapia, bass, and crustaceans. Good pairs are unoaked chardonnay, white Bordeaux, or Pinot Grigio.

in-

Fish that are cut more like steak; salmon, mahi mahi, shark, swordfish, and tuna, go well with oaked chardonnays, white Cotes du Rhone, white Burgundies, Viognier, and even a dry rosé.

Sauvignon Blanc is a favorite as it is considered very food-friendly. It is creamy, spicy, acidic, and soft—a good choice for most fish, even sushi.

If serving your fish with sauce, this is also a consideration. When pairing with the sauce, the wine should be slightly sweeter. Also, the darker the sauce, the darker the wine.

BUBBLES Believe it or not, champagne is very versatile as a food pairing; unless the meal includes steak or sweet desserts (despite being served often with wedding cake). For traditional brut Champagnes, try scrambled eggs, nuts, popcorn and potato chips, aged and hard cheeses, pasta with cream sauce, and any kind of fish or shellfish.

If you really want to indulge with sweets, or if you are choosing for a celebratory event, try an Italian asti; it is sweeter than French‑Champagne.

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worth the drive

Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Topsey Exotic Ranch 945 CR 118, Copperas Cove (254) 547-3700 • Open Daily, including holidays, March - Sept • Guests admitted 9am-5pm, complete your tour and depart by 6pm.

Oct - Feb • Guests admitted 9am-3pm to complete tour and depart by 5pm.

F

or 32 years, the Friedel family has been working to preserve some incredible wonders of the animal kingdom for Texans to enjoy up close and personal.

Topsey is a natural, free-range safari and petting zoo on 350 acres in the Hill Country. Guests can see a great variety of exotic domestic and wild animals from around the world, some of which are endangered and even extinct in the wild.

When Pop Friedel bought the property in 1988, he spent seven years preparing and perfecting the environment and acquiring a wonderful blend of animals that would live and thrive together before opening to the public. That passion for nature, and love of animals is still evident everywhere you look, including his family members who are carrying on the tradition and conservation.

WHEN TO GO

When you meet Stephanie Friedel (above), you know immediately how much she loves being there, caring for the animals, and making sure every visitor’s experience is memorable.

She explains the Ranch is open every day of the year, including Christmas.

Current operations, other than standard social distancing, are completely normal and going very well. She says

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there are generally more visitors on weekends, but the drive trail covers hundreds of acres so vehicles are able to safari at their own pace; the trail averages anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours. “Visitors are able to pull over if they wish,” Stephanie says. “If you want to spend extra time taking photos, wait for the zebras to get a drink of water, or enjoy feeding the camels for a long time, there is no worry about traffic on the trail.”

For the safety of the animals, ranch rules include keeping your windows all the way up or down for the duration of your drive. So, if you don’t like the heat, you can keep your windows closed and enjoy the view with the A/C on high. Same goes in the winter if you want to keep your heat on and stay cozy inside.

If you want to get up close and personal, you can get out of the car and walk through the petting zoo.

worth the drive G E T P L E N T Y O F F E E D F O R M I K E A N D M O N T Y > > > T H E Y C A N E AT A W H O L E B A G AT O N C E—B U T YO U W I L L LOV E E V E RY M I N U T E O F I T ! S E E A V I D E O C L I P O N O U R FAC E B O O K PAG E .

A GREAT DAYTRIP

To start, Topsey is about an hour from Georgetown, and the trip there is a beautiful drive through Texas country.

Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for kids for a day of adventure and you can feed animals all day long for $1 per bag. Everything you see, from the animal pens to the restrooms, is well-maintained, well-marked, and—specifically the humans’ areas—spotless. There is also an air-conditioned gift shop with games, toys, snacks and drinks, and apparel; some purchases help support conservation efforts outside the ranch.

A WILD TIME

On our recent visit, among other spirited moments, we fed dozens of goats, tried to get a non-blurry photo of extremely energetic squirrel monkeys, and visited with Lulu (at right), a pregnant kangaroo with a coat as soft as a chinchilla.

The animals are accustomed to their human visitors and are not shy about getting nose to nose with passengers.

They have plenty of furry respect for vehicles and do not block the path or leave any traces other than a dusty reminder from their treat-seeking hugs. While on the drive, passengers must stay in their vehicles but if you have concerns or questions about animal behavior, all of the staff are well-versed on the species they care for, and are happy to answer questions about what to expect.

Left page (clockwise): Stephanie Friedel went on special safari with us to share all the great details about the ranch and the animals. • Ranch entrance • Three-day old chocolate fallow deer • Black ostrich looking after her eggs • Swamp water buffalo • Petting zoo • Squirrel monkey enclosure.

The ranch maintains an Enrichment Plan of nutrition and activity to keep the monkeys engaged, healthy, and happy.

Above: Monty the Camel made himself right at home in the car looking for more treats. Monty and his buddy Mike are as gentle as they are persistent; it was the most fun we had all day. • Lulu the Kangaroo has imprinted on Stephanie and is comfortable around her and other humans, even while pregnant. Kangaroos actually have two uteruses and can pause a pregnancy in one to ensure optimum gestation for one and then the other.

Plus—and I’m hard-pressed to think of any other adventures that allow this—if you enjoyed the view and want more (and it’s at least one hour before closing), you can Below: Just a small part of the acreage and the view from the trail. turn around and do the trail again! TopseyExoticRanch.com

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Andy Webb • GISD Trustee Everyone wants to know... what can we expect next year?

ANDY WEBB HAS BEEN A TRUSTEE SINCE 2013 AND IS THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE SCHOOL BOARD. WE ASKED HIM FIVE QUESTIONS ABOUT SOME OF THE EFFECTS COVID CHANGES HAVE HAD ON THE DISTRICT. VISIT US ON FACEBOOK FOR #6 AND OTHER OUT TAKES...

The simple truth is that we don’t know yet. What I do know is, for everyone involved in GISD in any capacity, our hope, prayer, and goal, is to go back−as normal as possible. We are thinking about all the potential curve balls yet to come, and preparing contingencies to handle those as expertly as principals and teachers handled the first part last Spring.

Do you anticipate any changes?

We have to marry the things that we are allowed to do with our new understanding of what is technologically possible. I appreciate the capabilities we have and the data that shows what we are able to accomplish, but I believe nothing is as effective as being face-to-face in the classroom. On the plus side, we are definitely going to look at the Senior Parade in 2021. It started out as a place-filler for graduations we were later able to schedule, and we know the circumstances will not be replicated next year. But, given its impact—the joy and optimism it created—we are definitely going to look at it again.

Any particular challenges to the Board during this time?

Our job is always to identify resources and allocate them best we can.

We’ve given employee raises every year I’ve been on the Board, and we spend a great deal of energy working on a balanced budget. Normally, that is December through June, which, this year, was occupied with myriad other concerns; but I trust we will get it nailed down. Most people may not realize how well our Trustees work together. Boards can be like a family reunion; if it goes well, it’s great. If it doesn’t, it’s going to end up on YouTube. We are a happy family.

What will you remember most about distance learning?

My daughter really took to it. She is smart, driven, creative; didn’t miss a beat and finished really strong. Interesting—based on data we had about actual work being done at home, my own house was a microcosm. Two kids in the same house and a completely different approach to success; we expect to see that extrapolated across the entire district over time.

My son is a super athlete and this was the first spring since he was 3 that we have not played baseball. When we weren’t working on his studies, he taught me how to fish. He’s really good and I’m glad we got to spend that time together, especially since he is going to college. We both enjoyed a unique savoring of ‘senioritis.’ Fortunately, prior to Spring Break he signed to play baseball at Ranger College, so I’ve enjoyed telling everyone he’ll be “playing for the Rangers” next year.

So can teachers add “Rolex” to the school supply list?

(laugh) Probably. Even teachers have a new appreciation of teachers.

So many of them were teaching their own children and they want to go back to normal too. The support has been overwhelming. They had to prepare material, some had to adapt to new technology in order to, then, prepare their delivery—it was their regular over-the-top performances, and then some. We pride ourselves on being a marketplace of ideas, and we work hard to make GISD a place where quality of opportunity is a part of the quality of life.

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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

(

)

-3354

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around town

Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com

Geological Gem Just Beneath Your Feet INNER SPACE CAVERN IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

I

n an uncertain, changing world, there’s something comforting about exploring a cave that’s lasted for thousands of years.

Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown’s own show cave, is a spectacular escape full of unique rock formations, lakes, and fossils.

And to think it never would have been found if not for a highway.

A Texas Highway Department team was drilling for core samples in 1963 to see if the surface would support the Interstate 35 bypass when the drill bit suddenly dropped 26 feet—the crew had drilled into a cavern. They enlarged the hole for further exploration, which led to the discovery of five miles of cave passage, and bones of mammoths, saber tooth cats, and other prehistoric animals.

Inner Space Cavern opened to the public in 1966, its name inspired by the space race enveloping the U.S. and the Soviet Union at the time. While everyone was obsessed with outer

space, the cave’s property owners decided the ground’s “inner space” was special too. “It’s hard to believe this is right under your feet,” manager Taunya Vessels says.

Today, folks of all ages can embark on three tours. The Adventure Tour is a beginner caving experience on a paved, lit trail through the largest rooms, where you will learn all about the history and discovery of the cavern.

In the Hidden Passages Tour, guests can explore the undeveloped side of the cave using flashlights. The most physically demanding expedition, the Wild Cave Tour, takes people deep underground as they hike, crawl, climb and squeeze their way through a maze of passages and chambers. For more information, visit innerspacecavern. com or call 512-931-2283.

The next time you dash across I-35 in a hurry to run that errand or head to work, think about the natural treasure that lies just beneath the surface. Or take Exit 259 to experience the underground world of wonders for yourself.

COOL FACTS Did you know . . .

Inner Space stays at a cool 72 degrees all year round— a welcome relief in Texas summers.

No matter how much it’s pouring outside, the cave never floods.

Cave water is safe to drink.

Inner Space is one of the darkest can’t-see-yourhand-in-front-of-your-face places on Earth.

It is illegal to touch anything in a cave because the oil on your hands stops formations’ growth.

Temptation Stone is the only rock guests are allowed to touch because people have touched it since the cave opened and didn’t know about the damaging effect until later.

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poppy talks

Is it just me...?

I

am not much for controversy, so I’m just going to noodle on some boring things that make me roll my eyes from time to time (and sometimes make me sound like I’m preparing a stand-up routine).

For instance, what exactly is a “normal” call volume for customer service at, literally, every large company in America? I have not dialed an 800 number in the past three years that the recording did not immediately open with: “We are experiencing higher-than-normal call volume, so your wait time may be long. For faster service try our online chat feature”.

Wouldn’t three straight years of higher-than-normal constitute a new normal... for which perhaps they might consider hiring another employee?! I called my TV provider at 6:30 in the morning and got that message. My bill is over $200 a month; what exactly are they spending that money on, since it’s clearly NOT more staff? Just get it over with and play the loopy digital music that is ironically interspersed with “Your call is important to us…” and DON’T tell me to try your online chat option, TV people! That bot actually texted back that my wait time was more than 60 minutes, which is why I called the 800 number in the first place. Is “Brian from Ohio” the only one answering the phones, ever?

Also, can someone in the online world please stop making me choose the preset “very strong” password that looks like a cat walked across my keyboard? First of all, how do I know they aren’t cataloging their own suggestions and hacking my account the minute I enter my card number? Second, it’s none of their concern if I want to use “pookieface1968” because I can remember it. If it’s not safe, that’s on me and they don’t need to worry about it.

And while I’m at it, can you please stop making the X to get rid of a popup window so small that only a bald eagle sniper can click it accurately without accidentally clicking on the ad for pickle flavored toothpaste.

While I’m in the Internet frame of mind, I know we’re not supposed to mess with our phones while we’re driving, so can someone please tell Apple to put, maybe, a 5-minute delay on Siri’s directions when I plug something in to my maps app? Seriously, I am pretty solid on how to get out of my neighborhood, so can we start the chitchat AFTER I “turn left out of driveway” and through, maybe the first three turns? Just give it a rest every 15 seconds interrupting my podcasts until I reach at least a major artery of some kind?

I know... first-world problems...quit whining, Poppy.

Completely new topic. How is it, when I watch reality talent shows, there is always a cute little kid who says, “This has always been my dream…” Really?

You shouldn’t even be up that late. You watched one season and suddenly being a headliner in Vegas is your new “lifelong” dream? You’re 8 years old... a year ago, you were watching SpongeBob and probably wanted to be a unicorn.

Far be it from me to lampoon a child’s hopes, but seriously, I find statements about lifetime dreams much more believable from a 45-year-old who finally found the courage to move away from Ohio, to try show business, so he can leave his job in customer service.

Just some of the things that make the real (and much more disheartening) problems in the world feel a little less in my face. Hope it makes someone smile to realize … no, it’s not just you either.

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When in the course of human events...

The Declaration of Independence wasn’t signed on the Fourth of July—that’s just the day the document was formally dated and adopted by the Continental Congress, which had officially voted for independence on July 2.

John Hancock and Charles Thomson signed early printed copies of the Declaration to be given to military officers and various political committees, but the bulk of the other 54 men signed an official copy on August 2, with others following at a later date. Hancock’s big signature is on the updated version.

After Jefferson wrote his first draft of the Declaration, the other members of the Declaration committee and the Continental Congress made 86 changes to Jefferson’s draft, including shortening the overall length by more than a fourth.

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There is something written on the back, but it isn’t a secret map or code. Instead, there are a few handwritten words that say, “Original Declaration of Independence/ dated 4th July 1776”. No one knows who wrote this, but it was probably added as a label when the document was rolled up for storage many years ago.

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The Rev. Dr. Bill Pederson, Pastor

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

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facts to blow your mind

the body is a fascinating machine Your femur (thigh bone) is the largest and strongest bone in your body. Pound for pound, it can withstand four times as much pressure as the same amount of concrete because of the bone’s structure and density.

You probably didn’t know it had a name, but that dark gray that your eyes see as soon as you turn off the lights—just before complete darkness takes over or your eyes adjust to the lack of light—is known as “eigengrau”... literally “intrinsic gray”.

We know why THIS guy is waving now, don’t we?

And...the weird dots you see floating in the sky are your white blood cells.

Researchers from Michigan State University showed there is a 64 percent pass rate for kidney stones in the rear seat of Walt Disney’s Thunder Mountain roller coaster. You have a 16 percent chance if you sit in the front seat.

We don’t just have five senses; scientists believe we have as many as 21 senses, including balance, pain, and temperature.

Some people bitten by the Lone Star tick can develop an allergy to red meat. Beef, lamb, and pork may make people with this allergy experience headaches, sneezing, a runny nose, and nausea. In severe cases, it can cause the person to be unable to breathe. For some sufferers, the allergy fades over time, but for others, it’s permanent.

This girl lives all over the southeastern U.S. The “Lone Star” is just for the dot on her back.

It’s a “she” because only the females bite.

The human sneeze travels about 100 mph, and expels about 100,000 germs.

Over time, urine decomposes into ammonia; a great cleaning product that takes out stains. Romans used it so much for cleaning teeth and fabric that, by 70 A.D., tanners and traders were soliciting so much “clean” urine, the Emperor put a tax on it.

You cannot tickle yourself because as you move, the cerebellum knows you’re about to self-tickle so the brain doesn’t waste time interpreting signals from those nerves; i.e., you know how it’s going to feel. But, that is the same part of the brain that anticipates pain, so when someone else tickles you, there is an expectation of a sensation, but...no matching command to your own arm, so your brain registers it as a mild type of danger. Since it doesn’t actually hurt, you laugh.

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SOMETHING ON YOUR MIND? CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS GEORGETOWN 808 Martin Luther King, Jr., St. Georgetown 78626 •512.930.6351 Mayor • Dale Ross • mayor@georgetown.org District 1 • Mary Calixtro • district1@georgetown.org District 2 • Vacant • district2@georgetown.org District 3 • Mike Triggs • district3@georgetown.org District 4 • Steve Fought • district4@georgetown.org District 5 • Kevin Pitts • district5@georgetown.org District 6 • Rachel Jonrowe • district6@georgetown.org District 7 • Tommy Gonzalez • district7@georgetown.org County Commissioner Precinct #3 • Valerie Covey 3010 Williams Dr. Suite 153 Georgetown 78628 512.943.3370 • comm3@wilco.org Justice of the Peace Precinct #3 • Evelyn McLean 100 Wilco Way, Ste 204 Georgetown 78626 512.9463.1501 • wilcojp3@wilco.org County Judge • Bill Gravell, Jr. 710 S. Main Street, Ste. 101 Georgetown 78626 512.943.1550 • bgravell@wilco.org Sheriff • Robert Chody 508 S. Rock St. Georgetown 78626 512.943.1300 • rchody@wilco.org State Representative District 20 • Colonel Terry Wilson 710 Main St Suite 242 Georgetown 78626 512.463.0309 • terry.wilson@house.texas.gov 58

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State Representative District 52 • James Talarico 1901 E. Palm Valley Blvd. Suite 107 Round Rock 78664 512.463.0670 • james.talarico@house.texas.gov Senator, Texas District 5 • Dr. Charles Schwertner 117 W. 7th St. Suite 5 Georgetown 78626 512.863.8456

Senator

Governor Greg Abbott P.O. Box 12428 Austin 78711 512.463.2000

Ted Cruz 512.916.5834 300 E 8th St. Austin 78701 Senator John Cornyn 512.469.6034 221 West Sixth St. #1530 Austin 78701

Congressman John Carter 512.246.1600 • 1717 N IH-35 #303

Round Rock 78664

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food

Too Hot for Stovetop?

Comfort food is easy when it’s cold outside, but can be challenging to stand over a stove or a fire in the heat of summer.

BACON BLEU CHICKEN SALAD INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups spring salad mix • 1 small chicken breast • Pepper and Garlic Salt

Luckily, summer also brings fresh produce, and plenty of ideas for cool foods, light meals, and frozen drinks and treats.

These recipes focus on fresh items to create satisfying but not heavy dinners for hot summer days.

• Italian seasoning • 1 rasher of bacon; cooked, chopped (a rasher is a “portion” so, depending on how much you like bacon, this can be one or ten slices!)

• 1/3 cup candied pecans, coarsely chopped • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or Gorgonzola • 1/2 cup ranch dressing • Optional salad veggies: cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions You can also use your favorite blue cheese dressing instead of ranch and crumbled cheese.

DIRECTIONS

And... if you’re one of those jolly folks who celebrate “Christmas in July” or just want a non-traditional cold drink, you can have: FROZEN HOT COCOA Melt chocolate in a the microwave on half power, in 20 second increments, stirring until smooth.

Once melted, stir in hot chocolate mix, sugar and a little bit of milk. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

In a blender, add some more milk, a few cups of ice, and the melted chocolate mixture. Blend until smooth.

Serve immediately, topped with fresh whipped cream.

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Lightly sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with garlic salt, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Grill chicken breast and chop into bite-size pieces. Assemble all other ingredients into a bowl and toss.

WATERMELON GAZPACHO INGREDIENTS

• 5 cups cubed watermelon (from 1 watermelon) • 1 cup peeled, seeded, and diced cucumber • 1/4 cup chopped red onion • 1/2 jalapeño chile, seeded and minced • 2 T apple cider vinegar 1 tsp kosher salt

DIRECTIONS

Process watermelon, cucumber, onion, and jalapeño in a blender until smooth. Stir in vinegar and salt. Cover and chill at least 30 minutes. Serve in small bowls or glasses.

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food FROSÉ INGREDIENTS

• 1 750 ml bottle hearty, bold rosé (such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot rosé) • 1/2 cup sugar

• Strawberry syrup

• 8 oz strawberries, hulled, quartered • 2-1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

DIRECTIONS

Pour rosé into a 13”x9” pan and freeze until almost solid (it won’t completely solidify due to the alcohol), at least 6 hours.

Meanwhile, bring sugar and ½ cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes.

Add strawberries, remove from heat, and let sit 30 minutes to infuse syrup with strawberry flavor.

Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl (do not press on solids); cover and chill until cold, about 30 minutes.

Scrape rosé into a blender. Add lemon juice, 3½ ounces strawberry syrup, and 1 cup crushed ice and purée until

smooth. Transfer blender jar to freezer and freeze until frosé is thickened (aim for milkshake consistency), 25–35 minutes.

Blend again until frosé is slushy. Divide among glasses.

Rosé can be frozen 1 week ahead.

STRAWBERRY-BUTTERMILK SHERBET A refreshing ending to your summer party.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups fresh strawberries* • 2 cups buttermilk

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 t. vanilla extract • Garnish: fresh mint sprigs

DIRECTIONS

Process strawberries in a food processor or blender 30 seconds or until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides. Pour strawberry puree through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a large bowl, pressing with back of a spoon.

Discard solids. Add buttermilk, sugar, and vanilla to puree; stir until well blended. Cover and chill 1 hour.

Pour strawberry mixture into freezer container of a 1-1/2 qt. electric ice-cream maker, and freeze.

If you do not have an ice cream maker, place the mixture in a deep stainless steel baking dish and freeze for 45 minutes. As it begins to freeze near the edges, remove it from the freezer and stir vigorously with a spatula. Return to the freezer.

Continue to check the mixture every 30 minutes, stirring vigorously as it’s freezing. If you have a hand held mixer or blender, use one of those. Repeat this process for 2 to 3 hours, or until frozen. *16oz. package frozen strawberries, thawed, may be substituted.

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valid through 7/31/20

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parting shot

Word of the Day: Paradidomi N o we a p o n t h at is fo r m ed a ga in st t h ee s h a l l pro s pe r ; a n d e ve r y to n g u e th at s h a l l r i s e a g a i n s t th e e in ju d gm ent t h o u sh a lt co n d em n . ~ I s a i a h 5 4 : 1 7 ( pr i nte d o n Pro j e c t me mbe r s’ t- s h i r ts )

Above: Officer Cesar Salinas, Sarye (12th), Izabela (12th), Officer Delta Jolly, Brianna (11th), Asst. Chief Cory Tchida, Mariana (10th), Sierra (11th), Nadia (11th), Lt. Bert Witcher. Below: Officer Craig Ryan • (at table) Officer Robert Jones and Sgt. David Lanier • Assistant Chief Cory Tchida

P

aradidomi is a New Testament word that means “to pass into the hands of another”.

The young ladies who make up the Paradidomi Project regularly pass on, with God’s help, their community service, love, and helping hands. Last month, they gathered at the Safety Center, during shift change, to show their appreciation and respect for our Georgetown Police Officers with tubs of homemade cookies.

Group leader Denay Hill created the project, and hosts the young ladies twice a year to choose what and whom they would like to help. “We started out helping our family members, but we are starting to step out more.

Our goal is to step out to the whole community and grow from there.”

Paradidomi Project is based on a culinary mission, so the members find ways to help with food. Denay says, “The main place people sit, talk, and make decisions is at a table. It’s a basic need and we all have that in common.

We chose the Police Department because I believe we need to teach our children, and there need to be opportunities, to respect these officers.”

For their part, officers were delighted to have treats, but more so enjoyed the visit with Project members.

Officer Tejeda, heading out for patrol, said, “People come to us quite often to show their appreciation and we truly appreciate the feedback and positive encouragement.

Georgetown is a great city and we are happy to be here.”

Denay says the Project is hoping to add new members in Georgetown—find her on Facebook to learn more.

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georgetown view P.O. Box 2281, Georgetown, TX 78627

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON GEORGETOWN, TX