Georgetown View Magazine • March 2021

ge o r ge t own v i ew MARCH 2021

W E B U I L D CO M M U N I T Y

The Life and Legacy of

River Kelly

THE SMITH FAMILY’S MESSAGE OF HOPE

IN THIS ISSUE

Spring is in the air...

June is the New April | COVID Tax Questions Answered | 15 Shelter Stories | Pay-It-Forward Pet Adoptions | 24 Before they were Landmarks | Georgetown’s Historic Buildings | 32

Kelly Ladner (512) 913-1415 Kelly@KellyLadner.com

Charlie Huggins (512) 694-8469 CharlieSellsTexas@gmail.com

We live here.

We give here.

We love it here.

Holly Hogue (512) 417-5917 Holly@MallachandCompany.com

Doing real estate differently.

Ellen Angell (512) 731-9481 Ellen@EllenSellsAustin.com Blair Hogue

Branch Sales Manager / Loan Officer NMLS #408832 | (512) 516-2727 104 1/2 W 8th St, Georgetown, TX 78625

Shelley Clawson (512) 632-9393 ShelleyClawson@gmail.com

Jill Wood (512) 948-5527 Jill@MallachandCompany.com

Copyright ©2021 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4750 Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. All rights reserved. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Equal Housing Opportunity. State Disclaimers: twig.co/legal.

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FEATURES 12 RIVER KELLY FOUNDATION The Smith Family’s Legacy

50 WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

Cheerleading

INSIDE

20 TRANSFORMATIVE JUSTICE Helping Emerging Adults

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FAVORITES 15 ASK THE EXPERT COVID Tax Questions Answered 24 SHELTER STORIES Django’s Legacy; Pets of the Month 28 NEW NORMAL Georgetown Cookie Boss 32 AROUND TOWN The History of Local Landmarks 35 WORTH THE DRIVE The Cameron Park Zoo’s Newest Resident 36 KIDS Drive-by Birthday for a Warrior

48 HEALTHY HABITS Pandemic Positives Pt II 54 FIVE QUESTIONS NFL Cheerleading 57 POPPY TALKS Sno-VID Perspectives

The Smith Family is turning tragedy into hope and inspiration for many, to honor their son River.

59 FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND Mad About March 60 FOOD Irish Fare for Texas Fancy 64 PARTING SHOT Neighbors Helping Neighbors

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Some of Georgetown’s true servant-leaders; Council Member Kevin Pitts, Mayor Josh Schroeder, GISD Trustee Andy Webb helped crews all over west Georgetown clearing limbs and driveways after the melting began.

39 GEORGETOWN WORKS! Unsung COVID Hero

ON THE COVER Granger and Amber Smith, with their children, Lincoln and London, at their new home (in progress) in Georgetown.

The family, and their foundation, are a true story of “overcoming”.

BEFORE THEY WERE LANDMARKS The humble early days of an iconic Georgetown landmark.

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Cover photo by Todd White 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 Kennon annmarie@georgetownview.com

With a quarter-century of writing, reporting, and marketing behind her, Ann Marie enjoys sharing her vision and voice with a Central Texas audience. She believes being involved in and writing about local communities is the best way to show her affection and appreciation of everything Texan.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charlotte Kovalchuk • Miranda Bradley Camy Reynolds • Greta Bauer GRAPHICS & DESIGN Zion Pistole • Ann Marie Kennon CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Rudy Ximenez • David Valdez • Todd White SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jenny Campbell ACCOUNT SERVICES Debbie Tolliver ADMINISTRATION Kristina Poché IT / WEBMASTER Jesse Payne DISTRIBUTION David Schumacher CONSULTANT W. Ben Daniel ADVERTISING Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-598-3500 mark@georgetownview.com

Georgetown View is an Optimus Media Group, LLC publication.

Copyright © 2021 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 Georgetown View, P.O. Box 203, Jarrell, TX 76537.

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ANN MARIE KENNON EDITOR’S NOTE Well, the Groundhog did say six more weeks of Winter.

But, then he apparently got drunk and sent it all at once.

And I’m not buying his “Criteria for weather? I thought you said Siberia...my bad” excuse.

In any case, the intrepid View staff did get some wonderful stories to share before the lights went out. Not the least of which is the inspiration of Granger and Amber Smith and their family, who turned tragedy into hope for many.

Also on that note, attorney Terence Davis and Judge Stacey Mathews have transformed Williamson County’s Transformative Justice Docket into a program that is as creative as it is compassionate in helping keep young adults out of “grown-up prison.”

One of our fun themes this month is cheerleading. While many teams don’t even have in-person fans right now, March is Cheerleader Safety Month, and it is a time when young women and men start planning for tryouts. It’s also the month that this editor comes clean with just how many years past her prime she was still shaking pom pons.

Don’t miss our special look at Liberty Hill real estate. The current Central Texas real estate market, according to my agent friends, is historically unprecedented, and there are 63 home sites just down the road in Liberty Hill. Plenty of great builders, developers, and agents to get your creativity going too.

Fireside, Biscuit and I hope you are all warm and safe, and, like me, half-heartedly looking forward to swatting a mosquito with a flip-flop while not complaining about the heat.

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advertorial

Always Something New at Inner Space Cavern

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he cave at Inner Space Cavern has changed slowly over several million years, but today, even if you have been on a tour before, there is something new to see and do nearly every month.

The cave was discovered in 1963 when surveyors bored into bedrock at the future site of IH-35. Had they drilled the first hole 50 feet away, we may never have known about the wonders beneath that provide fascinating opportunities for education and amateur exploring.

ACTIVITIES BELOW There are three underground tours, depending on your preference for visuals and adventure. Plus, no matter how many times you take the tour, you’re certain to see, perhaps, a tiny and delicate formation, or unique feature on a huge rock flow for the first time. There’s so much detail, you simply can’t see it all in one trip—cave bacon, anyone?

The Adventure Tour is a guided walk on a paved and lighted trail to see the largest formations and the most decorated rooms. For more rugged types, the Hidden Passages tour provides guests with a flashlight to explore delicate formations in a newly-opened section of the cave. This undeveloped trail allows visitors a closer and more intimate view of the underground.

If you’re ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones, the Wild Cave Tour is a genuine spelunking experience— crawling and squeezing deep underground into tight spots, outfitted with headlamp and body pads. Cavers are rewarded with views of beautiful formations and large decorated rooms.

Regardless of your preference, the caves are always a cozy 72°, making them a good choice for year-round fun.

THE SABER TOOTH zip ride will provide passengers a bird’s-eye look of the InnerSpace site, the cave entrance, and views of everything from Georgetown to Austin.

WHAT’S NEW? The best new thing at the cavern is actually 130 feet in the air. General Manager Taunya Vessels says the Cavern’s new zip ride, The Saber Tooth, should be operational by mid-March and is certain to be a breathtaking family experience.

“While it is part of our Inner Space experience, it is separate from our cave tours and packs plenty of excitement in a four-minute thrill-ride.

We hope it will become a new family destination, not just for Georgetown, but all of Central Texas.”

The zip ride, which looks similar to a ski lift, begins on the south end of the property, lifts two passengers backward—facing south, for spectacular views of Round Rock and Pflugerville—then slopes them gently to the ground 630 feet away.

Taunya is also particularly proud of the new logo (above), designed by Round Rock senior and future

FAMILY FUN There are also many things to do at Inner Space if you prefer sunshine to sinkholes. Visitors can try their hand with the sluice to pan for gemstones, rare stones, and maybe even a fossil or two.

This is also the International Year of Caves and Karst, and expert staff have new projects and special events and projects every month to celebrate. Visit the website for activities, Home School and group tours, and special pricing for weekday tours.

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UT art major, Addie Hall. The Saber Tooth will also be managed and marketed by Maddie Brand, who began working at the cavern in high school, and has now made it her career.

Check the website for opening day information or visit Inner Space at 4200 S. I-35 Frontage Rd. in Georgetown.

InnerSpaceCavern.com • 512-931-2283

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CUSTOM DESIGN LANDSCAPING WATER FEATURES

PATIOS OUTDOOR KITCHENS OUTDOOR FIREPLACES

WE HAVE ONE GOAL:

(512) 755-9273 yardbuilders.com

to create a landscape design that reflects your personality and enhances the appeal of your property.

James Hodges

Master Landscape & Site Designer

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giving forward

by Miranda N. Bradley photos provided by the Smith family

A Moment That Changed Everything River Kelly Fund Building a Legacy of Healing & Hope

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t was a mild summer afternoon in 2019, not unlike many others in the Smith household. The children were running around the backyard; squeals of laughter filling the air. Country singer and dad, Granger, was helping his daughter with her gymnastics just 15 feet away from their backyard pool.

Less than five minutes later, their world shattered.

Three-year-old River had inexplicably made his way past the locked pool gate and slipped into the swimming pool while trying to fill up a water gun. No splash. No sound. In the blink of an eye, the Smith family lost their sweet, independent, funny boy.

“Out of 12 hours of the day, we think about him ten of those hours,” say parents Granger and Amber from their Georgetown home. “He’s always on our minds.”

River Kelly lived each one of his three years (or 1,000 days) on this earth to the fullest. His red hair could be seen flying as he raced his go kart one minute, or he was completely contented in the living room with his toy trucks the next. His favorite pastime, the Smiths say, was making the people around him laugh, especially his brother, Lincoln, and sister, London.

“He and his brother couldn’t sleep in the same bed because River would keep Lincoln up laughing,” remembers Granger, smiling at the memory.

Nearly two years later, the memory of River still brings tears. But now, at least, those tears are mixed with some smiles, although it has taken quite a while to get there.

For mom Amber, watching videos or looking at pictures of River has been part of her healing process. She even takes time to reflect on his memory each night before bed.

For Granger, the grieving process has been a bit different. “It’s still tough for me; before Amber sends me

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a picture or something with River, she’ll send me a text that says, ‘River Warning’, so I’m prepared.”

THE JOURNEY Nothing could have prepared the couple for the tragic events that unfolded on that warm June day.

After determining River had zero percent chance of surviving the accident, the couple made the decision to donate his organs. The family would later find out River’s donation saved two lives—a 49-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man.

“Donating his organs was our first step toward healing,” affirms Amber. “Knowing he saved two lives—that’s just how we wanted River’s legacy to live on, helping others.”

Another step toward their healing was establishing the River Kelly Fund, which has raised more than $400,000 for various charities. The Fund challenges people to ‘Live Like Riv’ by doing their most good and living each day to its fullest.

The River Fund is meant to contribute to a wide variety of charities, including children and family ministries, medicine, arts and culture, Veterans, first responders, and wildlife preservation. However, there are a couple of nonprofits that are near and dear to the family’s heart.

To learn more about the River Kelly Fund, visit RiverKellyFund.org.

If you or a loved one are experiencing grief due to losing a loved one, please visit GriefShare.org for a list of nearby support groups.

“Dell Children’s hospital took such great care of us when River was there (after the drowning),” says Amber.

“And we love BiG (Brookwood in Georgetown). It’s such a great ministry for adults with disabilities. But there are so many great organizations we want to give to.”

LOOKING FORWARD (AND UP) While plans for the Fund are still in their infancy, the couple want it to continue to grow so River’s legacy can live through the various charities it benefits.

“We are living day by day, so we don’t have a big bold plan right now for the Fund,” explains Amber. “Our hope is just that it continues to help people and organizations.”

As the second anniversary of River’s death draws near, the family keeps that same philosophy—living each day fully. But on that day, what the Smiths call his Angelversary, they try to get through it “as quickly as possible.”

Still, Amber says the feelings of pain are tempered by something bigger. “We try to remember that our worst day was his best day, because he got to go home to Jesus.”

It’s that deep-rooted Christian faith that has made each day a little less painful. After the accident, the couple recommitted to their faith, saying that today they are different people even than when the tragedy occurred.

“We’ve been to counseling, we’ve done it all, but the one thing that has gotten us through this is our faith in God,” Granger says. “I can’t give anything or anyone credit for our being here today other than Him.” “He is sovereign,” Amber adds. “There is hope in the Lord Jesus. Knowing that has sustained us even in our darkest times.”

DROWNING PREVENTION TIPS FROM GRANGER & AMBER SMITH “We thought we did everything right,” says Granger, “but drowning protection is a multi-tiered process.”

In light of their tragic loss, the Smiths would like you to keep the following items in mind as you prepare for the return to summer.

First, remember drowning is fast and silent, and most drownings happen during “non swim” times.

Install pool gates around the perimeter of your home pool.

Make sure to add a pool and/or gate alarm.

Have children take survival swim lessons.

Keep eyes on children at all times.

Don’t rely on flotation devices, which can instill a false sense of security in young children.

Do not keep toys in the pool; children are curious and may try to retrieve or play with them.

Get CPR certified.

Have emergency numbers easily on-hand.

As for other holidays, those are still very bittersweet.

On his birthday last year, the family shared a cake and released butterflies and balloons to remember him.

Both Granger and Amber choose to remember their boy exactly as he was—fiery, fun, full of life and adventure. A little boy, frozen in time.

“We will always celebrate him, but the candle on the cake will always be a number three. Because that’s who he was, a three-year-old boy.”

With each passing day, Granger and Amber find new ways to experience joy, something that was not always easy in the wake of River’s passing. As they speak to countless families who have lost children, they realize life does continue, but part of them will always be tied to their child. “Amber has spoken to 60-year-old mothers who lost children at a young age and they still remember them vividly,” shares Granger. “He will always be with us.”

In speaking with people and dealing with their own grief, the Smiths have adopted a philosophy: savor the moment.

“None of us are promised tomorrow,” they say. “So, hold your loved ones tight. Give your kids that extra scoop of ice cream. Enjoy the chaos around you. We wish we had just one more loud, crazy day with River.”

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ask the expert

Compiled from IRS.gov, Forbes.com, TaxAct.com

Looking at COVID-year Taxes

W

e know 2020 was the longest year ever and, among other things, the IRS won’t let us forget it either. Following are some things to consider as you prepare your returns. Be sure to consult a tax professional for a careful review before filing, particularly if any of these situations apply to your tax situation.

Unemployment: Federal unemployment compensation is taxable and must be reported on a federal return (1099-G). Any of the special unemployment compensation authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, enacted in Spring 2020, is taxable. m Includes any who received federally funded unemployment benefits, including those not traditionally covered (self-employed, independent contractors, and gig workers). m Funds received from Williamson County under the CARES Act (WilcoForward grants) is gross income taxable to a business. Sole Proprietors will receive a 1099-NEC from the County.

Gig work: If you picked up a side job for cash and netted more than $400, you must include it on your tax return as self-employment income. Make sure to note qualifying expenses that may reduce your net revenue and tax obligation (mileage, equipment, etc.).

EIC: Families who received unemployment income should also note, with regard to the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit—unemployment benefits are taxable, but not considered earned income.

Under normal circumstances, receiving unemployment would result in a reduction of both credits when you file your tax return.

Stimulus 1: Stimulus payments received from the government are not taxable. The IRS does not consider it income and it will not affect your refund or tax owed.

Stimulus 2: If you believe you were eligible for the Round 1 and Round 2 Stimulus payment, but did not receive what you expected, or received none at all, you can claim a Recovery Rebate Credit. E.g., if your income was lower in 2020 than 2019, you may be owed a partial credit. Or, if you were claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return in 2018 or 2019 but won’t be for 2020, you may be eligible for the credit.

PPP Loans: The CARES Act says the forgiven loan amount is not included in taxable income. The December 2020 stimulus plan does allow you to deduct allowable expenses paid with PPP funds.

Retirement Account: If you took a CARES Act 401(k) or IRA distribution in 2020, you can report all of the income on your 2020 tax return, or in equal installments over three years. You may also recontribute money back into a retirement account and undo the tax consequences of the distribution. Note: For 2021, the rules returned to standard hardship and standard plan loan rules.

Charity: If you made cash gifts to charities in 2020, there is a new $300 above-the-line charitable donation deduction per tax return. That means that even if you take the standard deduction and don’t itemize, you can take the $300 charitable deduction. Just make sure you have receipts for your gifts; under $250 you can use credit card statements or cancelled checks. For gifts of $250 or more, you need a written acknowledgment from the charity.

Winter Storm Uri Extension: The IRS announced extensions for Texans in the federal disaster area. Individual returns, Partnership and S Corp annual filings, fourth quarter estimated payments, quarterly payroll returns, and 2020 IRA contributions are now due June 15.

FREE TAX ASSISTANCE The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program of United Way is available to wage earners earning $57,000 or less. IRS-certified volunteers provide basic return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals.

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justice

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Transformative Justice

S

ince January 2019, through a series of cooperative grants, Williamson County has been successfully implementing alternatives to incarceration for emerging adults. Program participants are non-violent offenders who have a greater chance at rehabilitation through case management rather than jail.

Presiding Judge Stacey Mathews, 277th District Court, oversees the Transformative Justice Docket. She and Program Director Terence Davis are not only championing the program, they are building partnerships with community agencies like Bluebonnet Trails, Helping Hands of Georgetown, and Lone Star Circle of Care to provide therapy, support, and paths to independence.

EMERGING ADULTS Defined as individuals 17-24 years old, these offenders are too old for juvenile detention, but, because of their age and Asst. Director Matt Smith, Judge Stacey Mathews, Exec. Director Scott Matthew (2019) maturity, it is believed adult incarceration is less likely to fully rehabilitate them. Data “With great support from [County] Judge Gravell and show emerging adults represent 10 percent Commissioners, this program is now funded and manof our civilian population, but make up nearly 30 percent aged by the county, which enables us to choose and of arrests and 21 percent of the adult prison population. partner with any agency or program that will provide This age group is distinguished in the justice system whatever these young adults need. For some, it might because psychology tells us our brains do not fully be substance abuse counseling; for others, a tutor to mature until we are about 25 years old. This suggests prepare them for their GED, and maybe a few dollars to a cause as to why more than 75 percent in this demopay for the test.” graphic re-offend in the short term, and their probations are revoked at a rate three times higher than older adults.

The Transformation program follows a formal process to divert young adults from “grown-up” prison after being charged with a felony offense. Individuals are referred to and connected with myriad services to match each person’s needs and support outcomes most likely to reduce the need for incarceration, or recidivism.

“This is not a move to be soft on crime. It is a plan to be proactive about the behavior of an individual,” Judge Mathews says. “We want to defer cases out of the criminal system and into services that will help people become productive members of the community.

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HOW—AND WHY—IT WORKS

Three full-time staff provide case management, and assist the participants to navigate judicial and social accountabilities. Williamson County Juvenile Services Director Scott Matthew says, “In additional to judicial requirements, we match services to the need, then match activities and opportunities to a ‘spark’ of interest that inspires and motivates each person.”

Terence explains, “Participants go through rigorous drug assessments and counseling in three phases, which takes 9-18 months and constant supervision. With community support, we find projects, jobs, and training

justice

 A WIN-WIN-WIN Judge Mathews and Terence shared one of many success stories.

“A current participant has a problem with substance abuse, and lives at home with his working mother and three siblings, two of whom have special needs. Their mobile home has no insulation or flooring, and the family is simply not able to meet basic needs.

“We reached out to local churches and had materials donated to help fortify the home.

This helped rebuild the young man’s desire to work hard because he has something he values and does not want to lose it. On top of that, we enlisted other program participants as volunteers to do the work, which gave them a sense of pride; knowing what it feels like to help someone and be part of a community.” connections. These activities provide opportunities for positive feedback and reinforcement from professionals, judges, and lawyers who are all involved and invested in their success. This aids in their transition from the sense of being perceived as a criminal to a person who has a second chance.”

Credit: Terence Davis/Facebook

He says the ‘spark’ doesn’t always have to be big to be important or give back in a meaningful way. “One of our participants loves to cook and he created a instructional video on how to properly cook a steak. He also loves basketball and participated in the Dunks for Diapers event to help another pro-

gram participant who had just had a baby.”

Judge Mathews adds, “Costs for case management and services are managed through grants from the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, and local donations. It is worth the investment and it saves our taxpayers the costs of incarceration, which total about $100 daily per inmate.”

BE PART OF IT

Individuals and businesses can contribute to program success by supporting local organizations of all types that provide resources and referrals for life skills and independent living. As well, non-profit, faith, and charitable organizations can provide volunteer opportunities to mentor and help young people on their service path. Judge Mathews recalls, “One graduate had a heart for the homeless. We contacted Helping Hands of Georgetown and they had a volunteer who mentored her; modeling how to fundraise, create a budget to shop for basic needs, and provide appropriate sundries for homeless individuals. She still volunteers there and very fulfilled giving back to the community in such an impactful way.”

Scan the QR code for videos, information, and events.

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shelter stories

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • adapted in collaboration with WRCAS Communications and the County Public Affairs office Photos courtesy of Django’s (anonymous) adopted family

Django’s Legacy Family Honors Beloved Pet with Free Adoptions

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he saying “dogs are a man’s (or woman’s) best friend” is what inspired a family to give the gift of friendship to others. After losing their dog, Django, her owners— former County residents—donated funds to cover the adoption fees for all Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter pets who found their forever homes January 2224.

Django’s family adopted her in 2011 from WCRAS and wanted to give back to honor their beloved pet after her recent passing. Thanks to their generosity, and Django’s memory, the shelter adopted out 33 animals.

Django’s time with her family was an adventure, full of hikes, camping, and beach trips. “When we adopted Django, she had been adopted once before and returned to the shelter for being overly active, so we knew what we were getting ourselves into,” says Django’s owner, who wishes to remain anonymous.

Django’s veterinarian said she had so much energy she looked like she could run to Dallas and back. She lived up to that expectation and spent her days running, hiking, and playing. She loved running miles around Lady Bird Lake in the Texas heat and hiking off-leash on the Turkey Creek Trail and in Onion Creek Park. Django is described by her forever family as a sweet, affectionate, and smart dog. She aced every obedience class she took but was always spunky and determined to do her own thing.

“When we moved to Oregon, she learned to love the forest and waterfalls. She dipped her feet into the Pacific Ocean and made sand angels on the beach,” her loving owner shares. Her family remembers a special camping trip they took last summer. She was 11 years old and had recovered from cancer surgery, but had the drive to hike seven miles to discover a new waterfall. Django remained active until the end of her life.

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“She gave us so much joy. We are so glad that we gave a dog her second chance (in Django’s case a third) because we had so much fun with her. We miss her, and we hope others can discover the love and happiness a rescued dog can bring to their family,” Django’s adopter says.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter hopes Django’s story inspires more people to give shelter animals a forever home.

While her campaign was unique, and successful on a large scale, anyone who wishes to help families adopt without cost can become an Adoption Angel for one or more dogs or cats needing a home. A one-time $75 donation covers the adoption fee and special marketing for one animal. Adoption Angels not only help animals in need, they also allow donors to promote a business, honor a friend or family member, or just give a meaningful gift to a person looking for a new best friend. Contact wcras@wilco.org for more information.

Residents interested in adopting a new furry family member can view all available pets at pets.wilco.org, then send an email to adoption@wilco.org to schedule an appointment.

Pets of the Month

JEFFREY, 10 YRS; PANTS, 10 YRS; PENNY, 5 YRS

Hey there! I’m Jeffrey. Listen, do you see those two behind me? They’re my best buds, and they’re camera shy. I’ve made it my mission to help us all let the world know about us—a trio of furry friends searching for a bright new future. We love each other and want to live in a nice home together. We don’t need much; yummy food, a few fun places to sun ourselves, lots of scritches, of course! Who wouldn’t love a trio of furry friends like that? We promise to deliver triple the reward to the person that chooses us to be their furry family. Are you ready for this trio? Send an email to adoption@wilco.org.

AVANDER, 6 YEARS OLD Avander is stunning and searching for his new forever home. He’d love a family that will give him a little bit of time and space to settle into things. His former family described him as a lap-loving social butterfly—curious, active, and playful. He is housetrained and gets along with other dogs and people of all ages. Avander likes to take the lead when meeting new people, and he’d love a big yard to run and play. He knows sit, stay, and paw, and he enjoys playing ball, tug, romping in the water, and nice walks. Avander caught the eye of Amy Kobza, Better Life Realty Broker/Owner, who decided to be his Adoption Angel and paid his adoption fee! Would you like to meet Avander? Email adoption@wilco.org to get started.

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new nor mal

story and photo contributed by Emma Acosta, Girl Scouts of Central Texas

Georgetown Cookie Boss

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RECORD SALES

aking on an audacious goal like selling 1,000 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies over five weeks can be daunting, even in a typical year. Like many business owners across the nation, even Scouts face new obstacles as they work their cookie businesses in difficult times.

During the 2019 Girl Scout Cookie Program, Kyleigh was one of three local high school girls, and one of only 14 in the whole program, to sell 1,000 or more cookie boxes. In 2020, she challenged herself again to reach that 1,000+ cookie box goal. “Selling cookies has given me more confidence in general. I know it may not be easy every time, but I know if I keep trying, I can meet my goals,” said Kyleigh.

LOCAL SUCCESS But, pandemic or not, and as she has done every year since she was a little girl, Georgetown Scout Kyleigh VanDyke set a 2021 sales goal for her Girl Scout Cookie business. Despite school and extracurricular obligations, she has met her goal every year, and during the 2019 and 2020 Girl Scout Cookie Program, sold more than 1,000 boxes. She hopes this year will not be the exception.

“Girl Scout Cookies are one of the most well-recognized things about Girl Scouts,” said Kyleigh. “This year, it has been more challenging because of the limited number of cookie booths available.” She added,

“The thing that has worked best for me is setting up a sign in my front yard with a QR code linked to my Girl Scout Cookie website. Customers can pay online and request either contactless delivery or direct shipping straight from the baker. I think it has worked well because more people are getting outdoors and taking walks through the neighborhood.

Now, I’m able to continue taking cookie orders even while I’m busy with other extracurricular activities.”

Over the years, Kyleigh didn’t just gain more confidence interacting with people, she also took on more advanced tasks like cookie sales projections and inventory management.

Her advice to young Girl Scouts, “If you’re trying to sell too many cookies to the point you don’t like it, it’s okay to slow down and try again the next year.”

T H E 2021 G I R L S CO U T CO O K I E P R O G R A M I N C E N T R A L T E X A S R U N S T H R O U G H M A R C H 7. V I S I T G S C T X . O R G / CO O K I E S F O R I N F O R M AT I O N O N H O W TO O R D E R O N L I N E A N D OT H E R D E L I V E R Y O P T I O N S .

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around town

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • charlotte@georgetownview.com photos courtesy of The Williamson Museum

BEFORE THEY WERE LANDMARKS

Williamson County Courthouse: 100 Years

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grant from the Texas Historical Commission, the state agency for historic preservation, to restore the building, followed by another grant for $3.75 million. In total, restoration cost $9 million, and with the help of the Texas Historical Commission and the dedication of preservation-minded citizens and officials, the historic treasure has been returned to its original 1910 splendor.

he historic Williamson County Courthouse is home to county leadership and open to visitors as part of our museum tour.

But for nearly a century, it was a functioning courthouse; the center of our government and trial courts, and a social gathering place.

The courthouse we know is actually the County’s fifth, a neoclassical structure topped by a statue of Themis, the Greek goddess of justice. The original courthouse (top) was purchased in 1849, a 16-square-foot log home on Main Street east of the current courthouse. The current courthouse, on the downtown Square, was built in 1910.

The courthouse was the setting of several landmark cases.

Williamson County District Attorney Dan Moody successfully prosecuted the KKK in the 1920s in the courthouse’s 26th District Courtroom, and he went on to become the youngest governor in Texas history at 33 years old. Michael Morton was also tried there in 1987, and sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his wife, Christine Morton. Mr. Morton was exonerated by DNA evidence in 2011.

“The Williamson County Courthouse has served the public in many capacities since 1911 and is still a working part of our lives today,” says Danelle Houck, the museum’s educational program coordinator.

“Preservation and restoration connect the past to the present and future. The renovations have preserved Texas architecture and help tell the stories of Williamson County.”

AND ONGOING

Today, the courthouse serves as an administrative building for county offices including public Court officials met under a live oak tree until they purchased affairs, the treasurer, auditors, the first courthouse (top photo) in 1849 • Second 1850-1855 • One of those stories is recounty judge, and the budget Third, 1855-1877 • Fourth 1878-1910 lived through annual Rouse department. Every Tuesday, the High School field trips, in which Commissioners Court gathers makes the stories of Williamson students read To Kill a Mockingbird to discuss county business on the County come alive,” Danelle says. and come to the courthouse to learn second floor of the building. the story of Dan Moody, the WilliamThe next time you take a stroll son County district attorney who sucaround the Square for a bite to eat or cessfully prosecuted the KKK in the a shopping excursion, stop to admire 1920s. Students read and act out the Throughout years of wear and tear, the courthouse—the magnificent final courtroom scenes of the book the courthouse has undergone three historic landmark that is the pride of in a courtroom from the same time significant renovations. In 2000, the Georgetown. period of the book. “The courthouse county was awarded a $250,000

RESTORATION & FAMOUS CASES

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(

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by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

worth the drive

Cameron Park Zoo 1701 NORTH 4TH STREET, WACO • (254) 750-8400 • CAMERONPARKZOO.COM OPEN M-S 9am-5pm, SUN 11am-5pm • TICKETS START AT $9.50

SAVING WILDLIFE When you visit the animals, you’re also helping them.

In addition to donating a portion of your admission ticket, the zoo has many standing campaigns that support operations in Waco, and conservation efforts around the world. In addition to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the zoo also supports organizations that help rhinos, orangutans, and more.

photo provided by Cameron Park Zoo

The Cameron Park Zoological and Botanical Society is the non-profit side of the zoo, which allows them to function as a 501(c) 3 organization. Marketing Manager Duane McGregor says, “Donors are very important to the Cameron Park Zoo’s education and animal care programs, field projects, and local and international conservation initiatives.” Anyone can participate in their giving campaigns and even $5.00 helps purchase enrichment toys like Kong feeders, which help keep carnivores stimulated since, as kept animals, they do not hunt.

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f you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, and out in the world, the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco is open to visitors every day. Zoo staff confirm all of the wild animals are healthy and outside for viewing as long as weather is relatively clear and above 50°F.

MUST-SEE IN MARCH Springtime visitors are in for a treat at the Savannah exhibit! Its newest resident, born January 22, was 6 feet tall and weighed 135lbs, thanks to Penelope, the zoo’s Masai giraffe. This was her first calf, and the zoo’s first Masai birth. “Zeke” was named after the zoo held a fundraising contest to allow the public to choose his name, which raised $1,754 for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

While still very small for a giraffe, Zeke was already taller than all of his handlers at birth, gained 30 pounds in his first two weeks, and continues to grow rapidly.

When full-grown, Zeke will be the largest of the giraffes.

The Masai are the largest subspecies, found in Central and Southern Kenya and in Tanzania. They are known for distinctive, irregular, jagged, star-like blotches that extend to their hooves.

WHEN YOU GO All exhibits are open and guests are asked to wear masks when inside or visiting designated exhibits in which the animals are believed to be susceptible. Membership manager Kristi Webb says, even with restrictions, zoo attendance during the week is very light, and even Saturdays are generally under capacity. “Spring Break is a very busy time but as a general rule, if you can find a parking spot in our lot, you will not be turned away. If not, maybe grab a quick bite in Waco and come back to check again and it’s likely some families have left and you can come on in.

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kids

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com

Drive-by Birthday for a Warrior

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ore than 100 cars, a fire engine, and a special Paw Patrol “rescue” vehicle celebrated Troy Lanier’s 4th birthday with his family last month.

After being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia last May, this powerful little Georgetown man has come through seven months of treatment, and is in maintenance care now.

The celebration was hosted by L4 Cares and organized by Megan and Matt Beatty of Liberty Hill. Megan explains, “We have been doing parades and parties ever since the community got together to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. She was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor and, before that, we didn’t know things like this even existed.” Happily, their sweet little girl is out of treatment, vibrant, and attended the parade with her parents.

Top: Troy’s family, seated behind the royal chairs, enjoyed a beautiful day at Highland Estates in Georgetown.

Inset: Awaiting the arrival of the fire engine and the start of the celebration.

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Troy’s mom, Caitlin, was moved and humbled by the outpouring of love and support. “It is very overwhelming and I can’t believe this many people came out just for Troy. It’s been great. We’re never really going to be able to thank everybody the way we would want to, but we are very thankful.”

Many of the parade vehicles stopped briefly to leave a present or balloons for Troy, which he immediately investigated as the parade wound down. Afterward, the family enjoyed a full day of celebration, including a joint birthday cake with his 12-year-old cousin, and a special photo shoot with Chase, Rocky, and Marshall.

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georgetown works!

story and photos by Charlotte Kovalchuk charlotte@georgetownview.com

Behind-the-Scenes COVID Hero Gina Smith, Georgetown Fire Department

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was able to shop around for equipment and medical supplies instead of sticking with one supplier. But what started as a matter of convenience became a necessity when the federal government took control of medical supply distribution and ordered equipment to be sent to areas hit hardest by COVID. Wiped-out warehouses, price gouging, and shipping delays ensued. “It was a big mess,” Gina recalls.

“What saved me was my connections with representatives from these medical supply companies.”

hen the pandemic hit, many municipalities, EMS agencies, and hospitals suffered extreme supply shortages.

Hospital gowns, gloves, N95 masks, and other PPE were sent to hot spots like New York and California, and as a result, many first responders had to answer calls without protective gear.

But, thanks to Gina Smith, the Georgetown Fire Department had zero shortages. Before she found her way to the fire department as medical logistics coordinator, Gina worked for a statewide EMS company as an EMT and medical logistics coordinator, which allowed her to build relationships with medical suppliers. It’s because of those relationships that no Georgetown firefighter EMT had to respond to a call without protective gear during the pandemic. “We could have been in a bad situation,” she says. “I’ve heard horror stories from people, working for other agencies, who couldn’t get their hands on PPE; still answering calls but not provided the things they need.”

Gina remembers her own experience as a first responder, a career choice that dates back to childhood when she was inspired by TV shows about firefighters and law enforcement; “They made it look so cool.” Now, 30 years later, she still thinks it’s an awesome job, but noth-

ing like the way Hollywood portrays it. “It’s not all glammed up. It’s not the edited pretty version.”

A WIN FOR GEORGETOWN After helping the Georgetown Fire Department with a medical logistics computer program, Gina took over the program in 2019, unaware that a health crisis would threaten EMS agencies and fire departments just a few months later. She grew to love working for the fire department, with its fantastic staff and supportive community. “Georgetown loves its fire department,” she says. “You don’t see that in every community. People love how the city takes care of them, and it runs like a well-oiled machine.”

At first, Gina’s relationships with various medical suppliers just saved the fire department money, as she

As companies continuously set aside cases of protective equipment for her, Gina has gratefully bought whatever they have, even if it sometimes meant firefighter EMTs were decked out quite colorfully. “At one point they looked like Easter eggs with pink gowns and purple masks,” she says, adding that they were good sports about it and even got compliments on their attire from some Sun City folks.

Throughout the chaos of 2020, every fire station, including newly-minted Stations 6 and 7, has always been fully stocked with supplies. “We’ve never run out of anything—we haven’t even come close,” Gina notes.

But as she says, she was just doing her job. “Pandemic or no pandemic, you just have to adjust to what’s going on. I didn’t expect this to come, but it did, and we made it through.”

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healthy habits

by Ann Marie Kennon • annmarie@georgetownview.com photos courtesy of TikTok@chrisdstaples • used with permission

Pandemic Positives Part II

Get Creative, Get Happy @chrisdstaples E N G A G I N G I N S M A L L D A I LY A C T S O F C R E AT I V I T Y M AY I N F LU E N C E O V E R A L L W E L L - B E I N G *

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f you’re looking at the calendar and scowling that we still don’t seem to be done with 2020, psychology tells us adding a little bit of creative energy in the day not only makes us feel better in the moment, it can influence overall well-being and put us on a path to flourishing.

Chris Staples is proof that living positively helps you live well. This charming and sublimely cheerful Internet star, student, singer-songwriter, and substitute teacher has learned that impacting lives is good medicine for life.

If you have not seen Chris on Facebook or TikTok, you are missing his 1,000+ videos, mostly of him dancing on his front porch or sharing life wisdom he acquired as a youth minister and caretaker for his father.

Chris explains; “I’ve had many losses in my family, and I didn’t handle them well. I also recently found out I have an autoimmune disease; it’s not curable but it’s treatable. But it’s all okay. I still have a blessed life, wonderful friends and family. It all got turned around when I found I was having an impact by telling people who I was and about my depression. Now, when I’m feeling sad, I try to make the world a better place by making people smile.”

A LOT OF PEOPLE Chris started dancing and kidding around on TikTok in 2019 as a joke, and turned serious when people began reaching out to him between his dance mix performances. If you’re wondering how watching a man dance on his porch can cure some COVID blues, consider he grew up in a world where MTV doesn’t play music, but he masters every song you ever loved—Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, Salt-n-Pepa, or Garth Brooks. It is guaranteed he has posted at least one video bite that will make you smile to remember high school, your boombox, or singing into your hairbrush.

That smile is his mission, 30-60 seconds at a time.

Bottom line, 500,000 followers can’t be wrong about his humor, good vibes, and infectious smile.

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“I’m actually pretty shy,” he says. “When I see a video getting thousands of likes per hour, or how many followers I have, I think it’s crazy. But I love music, I love Jesus, and this is all for fun. Outside of my live chats with followers, I am excited to become a teacher when I graduate, and would love to make a difference with my music.

I want to write music that has meaning.”

BE LIKE CHRIS His advice for people looking to elevate their mood, or just find their inner Chris; “Creativity doesn’t have to be dancing—it might be cooking or writing code. Be yourself, because true friends and family will love you for you!

I’ve been bullied all my life and it took forever for me to come out of my shell. Now I’m encouraging everyone to ‘Be you and love yourself’ because life is too short to let what others say define you, or for you to conform to any norms of society.” Good advice for his future students and, likely, anyone who ever was one. *Tamlin S. Conner (Univ. of Otago, NZ), Colin G. DeYoung (Univ. of Minnesota) & Paul J. Silvia (UNC)

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS “TEXAS”?

The Birthplace of Cheerleadi T

here are many icons of American culture that did not originate in Texas, and cheerleading is one of them. But, like barbecue, pageantry, and law enforcement, Texas went and made it better.

You may already know the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were not the first in the NFL, but they are about as famous around the world as Mickey Mouse so, whether that is the cause—or effect of the Lone Star love affair with cheerleading—the sport is still going strong at all levels.

It should surprise no one that in a state that loves football so much, those on the periphery also enjoy a sense of connection and identity as participants in the culture of Friday night lights. In decades past, cheerleading created a social aspect that allowed girls and women who did not play sports to feel connected to teammates and their school. In recent years, as cheerleading has been elevated to a competitive sport, Texas has been equally intentional about being bigger, more creative, and nailing the most challenging stunts.

BACK(FLIP)STORY History books tell us organized cheerleading began at the University of Minnesota in 1898. Women were not invited to participate in the sport at all until 1923, but they brought the first tumbling and acrobatic elements to the routines.

what makes Texas “Texas”

f Modern ing

Left: Celebrating Georgetown Homecoming (previous) • Above: East View cheerleaders celebrate a 2019 Tuesday tip-off with an Exceptional Georgetown Alliance fan.

THEN, TEXAS STEPPED IN In 1939, the dean of Kilgore College in east Texas wanted to encourage more young women to enroll but also keep football fans in their seats during halftimes. With the help of Gussie Nell Davis, the first-of-its-kind Rangerette dance team brought entertainment to the field and set the bar for on-field performance. The Rangerettes are still the gold standard and the world’s best-known collegiate drill team, performing coast-to-coast in the United States and on frequent world tours.

By the 1940s and ’50s, when professional sports entertainment began to take shape, cheerleading was still a male-dominated activity and had remained fairly exclusive to collegiate football. They also began gracing collegiate cheerleading squads across the nation and pro teams eventually picked up the trend.

For its part, by 1948, cheerleading had grown so much at colleges and high schools that Lawrence

Herkimer, a former cheerleader at Southern Methodist University, formed the National Cheerleaders Association, the organization that drew cheerleading off the sidelines and into the national spotlight.

Lawrence held his first camp in 1948 in Huntsville, Texas with 52 girls and one boy. His signature jump while a cheerleader at SMU—the Herkie—is still one of the most popular jumps for cheerleaders around the world today. Today, NCA is headquartered near Dallas and remains one of the largest and most influential camp and competition organizations, holding hundreds of camps nationwide every year and more than a dozen televised championships.

Herkie also created the PomPon and held the patent for the stick with colored paper designed to attract fans’ attention and be more visible on television. Herkie later created the “Spirit Stick” in 1957 as a reminder to teams of the importance of positive attitudes, leadership, and supporting the team and leading the fans. It is still a cherished award in cheerleading.

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Texas cheerleading AMERICA’S SWEETHEARTS While Herkie gave Texas the inroad to setting many standards for cheerleading, Dallas is what brought it to worldwide fame. Several NFL teams had cheer and pep squads in the 1960s and the Cowboys were no different.

The team’s Cow Belles and Beaux were a co-ed squad of local high school students who led traditional cheers on the sidelines. Then, in 1971, owner Tex Schramm, having watched the crowd’s reaction to exotic dancer Bubbles Cash walking down the steps in his new stadium, told his cheer director to find professional dancers who would add some glamour to the game.

The new dancers, and their star-spangled outfit, resulted in the birth of an image that changed sports entertainment forever, and that uniform has since been installed in the Smithsonian Institute as a permanent symbol of American culture. It did not hurt the DCC, or Texas’ reputation for being the best, when the ladies began appearing in television shows, USO tours, and even had their own DCC “Barbie” doll.

If that weren’t enough, you can watch or stream 15 seasons of “Making the Team” on the CMT network, which documents the annual tryout for those 45 hard-to-win spots on the Cowboys’ sidelines.

As popularity grew and tryouts for coveted spots everywhere got tougher, other not-so-flattering productions showed the world just how seriously Texas takes its cheerleading, including two television movies about the mom of a junior-high candidate who hired a hit man to kill the mother of a rival student. More recently, Netflix featured students at Navarro College in Corsicana in a docuseries about their journey to their 15th national championship. The show got mixed reviews for content, but was praised nationally for demonstrating the superior, but often-overlooked athletic skills of many in the sport to a nationwide audience.

OFF THE FIELD Texas loves cheerleading so much that many towns have multi-generation squads that raise money as well as spirit. While technically a dance team, the Sun City 52

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Georgettes (top) bring joy and energy to audiences at parades, school assemblies, and more. They are an active group of over-55 ladies who love to dance and perform drill-style routines all over Central Texas.

But, if you are a purist, Cheer Austin is an all-volunteer, community-based 501(c)3. Director Ernie Barrera (pictured) wanted to be a cheerleader as a child but was told he should probably play football so he was not able to follow his dream. Then, at age 35, he saw several “Cheer” teams at a parade and joined Cheer Chicago. “I decided if I ever moved to a city without one, I would create it. I think for many people, particularly in Texas, we just never get over it, even as our opportunities seem to end when we leave school.”

Ernie’s former and woulda-been cheerleaders don uniforms, practice weekly, and perform routines and stunts at parties, 5Ks, and other events in the Austin metro area.

Money they raise supports local small non-profits that provide direct care services for those with life-threatening challenges. Their beneficiary this year is Strong Family Alliance and they are holding tryouts right now, virtually, if you want to stretch out your Herkie one more time! (CheerAustin.org)

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Ann Marie Kennon (in a previous life) KEEPING WITH ONE OF OUR MARCH THEMES, O U R E D I TO R S H A R E D S O M E O F T H E Q U E S T I O N S SHE IS ASKED MOST OFTEN ABOUT THE NFL What was it really like to cheer in the NFL? A lot of time and work, but great experience. We had tryouts for about three weeks, rehearsed twice a week the other 11 months; the tour troupe had an extra night per week, then every night before an overseas tour; 12-20 hours on average. We didn’t have weigh-ins, but we had to maintain a good look in the uniform as well as our health. We were also told rehearsal is not practice. Practice is what you do at home—you come to rehearsal with the routines down cold, so all you need to do is work out group parts and formation changes.

How much did you get paid?

Each team has a different policy for payment, and things have changed in Washington since I retired, but at the time, we weren’t paid. Personal appearances were almost always for charity, but an occasional sponsored appearance was $100 per hour.

Today, squad members are paid $75 per game.

Why do people cheer in the NFL if they don’t get paid?

For the same reason we wanted to be cheerleaders in high school and college for no pay. It’s fun to perform, we love to dance, and being a part of something (at that time) as exciting as the NFL is a good life experience. Everyone has a hobby and this one didn’t cost me anything.

The reason I continued to be a cheerleader was because it was an amazing feeling to run out of a 54

tunnel with 80,000 people watching, I was in great shape, I loved feeling “special” and making my family proud, and I also got to travel the world entertaining the troops. I will never have the kind of money to afford something like Djibouti or Kuwait on my own. Moreover, even if I had a billion dollars, I could not pay to have SEAL teams and Parajumpers as bodyguards; a surreal experience that seriously outshines any football game.

Did you date any players?

On most teams, it was forbidden to date the players. We were cordial and professional, but there were many good reasons not to fraternize.

First, although players make millions of dollars, I am pleased our directors encouraged us to consider ourselves equals. We were not fangirls—we were professional, just like them. We practiced year-round and we were also on the field, rain, snow, or shine.

We attended more than 300 charity and non-profit events annually to promote the team, and we still had to work or go to school full-time, from which we took personal leave to entertain the troops. Second, no

Monday Night Football vs. Dallas Cowboys 1999

director, to my knowledge, wanted there to be any advertisement or hint that trying out for the team was a great way to land a rich/famous husband.

Can you get me tickets?

Short answer, no, and not just because I retired in 2005. Cheerleaders do not have any special insider tracks to tickets or merchandise.

We received two tickets to each home game to share with family and friends; we didn’t travel to away games. They were nosebleed seats in the end zone, but they were together so our families got to know each other. They did appreciate being able to enjoy our performances without having to ask people in front to sit down since they were all staying put during half time and time outs.

With 82nd Airborne at Kandahar airport, Afghanistan, 2002

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All in all, despite needing a chiropractor, courtesy of a few hundred drop-splits (and being 16 years older), I’m proud of it, and, if you’re inclined to try out, I recommend the job.

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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

poppy talks

Sno-VID Sno-V Perspectives R

emember when we had lockdowns and couldn’t find toilet paper or hand sanitizer and we were frustrated about our non-essential conveniences being taken away?

Then, Mother Nature said “Hold my beer...” and made me long for the at-least-we-had-electricity days of lockdown.

Now, dear readers, Poppy knows the pandemic is no joking matter but, like every meme you see on Facebook that generally enrages someone, think back to the days when satire was just supposed to make you smile as you pondered an idea. For me, as we neared the bottom of our wood pile, and I was pondering which bed frame to burn first, I couldn’t help thinking about how our “spectrum” of inconvenience changes as the universe says, again and again, “Oh, no, it can still get worse.”

But God is a great chess player and helps out in ways we wouldn’t (at the time) have imagined. Perhaps our deep freeze was Him finally throwing up His hands, saying “Now maybe you will stay home with your own family like they told you. You’ve been preparing for this with Zoom calls for months.” Perhaps He cut the power so we could huddle in with family and teach our kids how to play Crazy-8s with actual cards like we kept saying we would if we only had the time, but...we still had Netflix.

Perhaps He also sent the snow first

so we would all have something to melt to use in the bathroom.

Perhaps He nudged my son to forget his water bottle for KidStrong class, precipitating my aggravated purchase of a whole case of water because I didn’t want to use a debit card for a single bottle. But, then, that case of water was all we had for three days. A month ago, I’d have been aggravated just being told to boil water, but today, using a faucet at all feels like a vacation.

I also hope, on a bad day, or my deathbed, I can fully summon the supreme joy of “The power’s back on! Find all the chargers... we’ve got 60 minutes! Go, go, GO!” game, and “Quick, somebody cook something!”

P.T.S.D.O.G.

I also might not have guessed how much I love my dog-that-can’t-swim until I midnight-body-slammed the icy brick around the pool and, crying, reached through a layer of razor-sharp slush up to my shoulder to pull him out of the hole he punched through. Naturally, when the pool is liquid, he gives it a knowingly-wide berth but, apparently, when frozen, it’s “Go” time. He slept the whole

next day in front of the fire, like Leo DiCaprio fished him out of the North Atlantic.

Your blizzard story is surely different, but I’m hoping you might have had a providential moment or two in there somewhere. It’s just nice to know Someone is in control.

Still, on the negative side, I am now fully aware of what a lousy pioneer woman I would have made. It occurred to me, while I was pondering whether I could safely make toast over an open fire, my much hardier great-great grandmother might have been outside pounding grain on a rock to make bread. Then again, at least she knew how to do it, having always cooked everything with fire, and likely wouldn’t have been complaining about it. She’d have probably even said a little prayer of thanks that she had wheat in the first place.

Heck, even my grandmother would have had Jiffy Pop, which surely would have worked on a fire.

(Note to self for future grocery trip and prepper-food box.)

One thing I did enjoy in my metaphysical connection with my ancestors... reading paper books, and the Bible by candlelight was kind of nice.

I guess 21st-century living is still relatively easy, even when I think it’s not.

For now, the power is back on and this is the best microwave popcorn I’ve ever had.

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Mad About March

facts to blow your mind

The last time the NCAA held its big basketball tournament (2019), workers spending company time picking and betting on brackets cost employers $4 billion in lost productivity. (USA Today)

Elsewhere in basketball, when Air-Jordans were first introduced, they were against NBA dress code. Michael Jordan could totally afford—and paid—a fine every time he wore them on the court rather than play without them. Eventually, the NBA allowed the shoes on the court.

To celebrate “Pi Day” on 3/14, perhaps you can impress your friends who speak Klingon by speaking Pi-lish. Some math nerds loved pi enough to invent a dialect based on it. The number of letters in each word match the corresponding digit of pi. This first word has three letters, the second has one letter, the third has four letters, and so on.

Named for Mars, the god of war, March seems to live up to the name. Historically, the weather turned warm enough to resume any fighting that had paused for winter. Since the 1965 invasion of Vietnam, with the exception of the War in Afghanistan, almost all major U.S.-NATO led military operations have begun in March.

Every month has an “ides.” The word just means “mid-point.” Perhaps Shakespeare also knew, in the Roman empire, March 15 was traditionally a day for settling debts. Seems the senators definitely did that.

World travelers may be disappointed to visit the spot where Caesar was assassinated March 15, 44BC. Today it is the site of a no-kill cat sanctuary.

The real St. Patrick wasn’t Irish. He was born in Britain around A.D. 390 to an aristocratic Christian family. He is also not officially a Catholic saint, as he was considered an extremely holy person for the age, but no pope ever officially canonized him.

There are seven times more Irish-Americans than there are people living in Ireland.

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food

Irish Fare for Texas Fancy COWBOY IRISH STEW • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp coarse salt

• 1 Tbsp ground black pepper

2 Tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 1/2 pounds beef stew meat

1 medium onion, chopped

• 8 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups beef stock

• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves

1large turnip, peeled and diced

• 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 tsp liquid smoke

Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 Tbsp spicy mustard or Dijon mustard It is believed the first Irishman in Texas was Hugh O’Connor. Born in Dublin in 1734, he left to serve in the Spanish military when England was ruling Northern Ireland.

He came to New Spain (Texas) in 1767, and served as governor until 1770.

Hugo Oconór (his Spanish name) helped reinforce San Antonio and participated in laying stones for the Mission San José church.

The Texas State Historical Association places 12 Irish-born heroes among those who died defending the Alamo in 1836.

The battle of San Jacinto found about 100 Irish natives among the troops fighting for Texan independence.

Many more Irish came to Texas because of the terrible Potato Famine that struck in 1845. During the American Civil War, County Galway-born Richard “Dick” Dowling led an all-Irish unit known as the Fighting Irishmen.

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• 3 carrots, cut in bite-sized pieces • 1 pound potatoes, cut in 1/2-inch pieces • 1 pound crimini or portobello mushrooms, cut in bite-sized pieces

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 300°F. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, salt and pepper. Set aside.

Heat oil in a large, oven proof pot over medium heat. Dredge beef in flour mixture and add to pot with garlic and onions. Cook until well browned on all sides, stirring occasionally. Add all remaining ingredients except parsley and mushrooms. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and cook for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, stir well to incorporate the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cover and place in oven for 30 minutes.

Remove from oven, add parsley and mushrooms and cook, covered, over medium heat for an additional 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning and serve with a good crusty bread.

food IRISH SODA BREAD MUFFINS WITH CHEDDAR AND JALAPEÑOS Proving that, in Texas, everything is better if you add cheddar and jalapeños!

• 3 c all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp white sugar

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1-3/4 c buttermilk

• 1 egg

• 1/4 c butter melted

• 1 c shredded cheddar

• 4 jalapeños seeded and diced

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners, or spray muffin tin with cooking spray.

Mix flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and baking soda in a large bowl. Whisk together buttermilk and egg together in a small bowl. Stir into flour mixture. Fold butter into the batter. Stir in shredded Cheddar, add diced jalapeños.

Spoon batter into the prepared muffin tin. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 20 to 30 minutes.

IRISH BROWNIES • 1 c all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 c unsweet cocoa powder

• 8 oz dark bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 3/4 c white chocolate chips

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 c granulated sugar

• 1 c semisweet chocolate chips

• 10 oz Guinness Extra Stout beer, room temperature (no foam) • 2 tbsp confectioners’ sugar (approximate) for dusting • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into cubes

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with nonstick foil. In medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Melt butter, bittersweet chocolate, and white chocolate chips in a double-boiler over very low heat, stirring constantly until melted. Remove from heat. In large mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar high-speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

Add melted chocolate mixture, beating until combined.

Mix flour mixture into melted chocolate mixture. Whisk in Guinness stout beer. The batter will seem a bit thin. Drop semisweet chocolate chips evenly on top of batter (some will sink in).

Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes on center rack in the oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost clean. Let brownies cool, uncovered, until they reach room temperature. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Makes 3 to 4 dozen brownies, depending on how large you cut them.

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512-643-9200

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parting shots Zachary Edmundson Photography

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Photo by Kevin Pitts

W H E N I WA S A B OY A N D I W O U L D S E E S C A R Y T H I N G S I N T H E N E W S , M Y M OT H E R W O U L D S AY TO M E , “ LO O K F O R T H E H E L P E R S . YO U W I L L A LWAY S F I N D P E O P L E W H O A R E H E L P I N G .” ~ M R . ( F R E D ) R O G E R S

Above: District 5 Councilmember Kevin Pitts gets his work crews organized and prepared to fan out across Berry Creek and Serenada.

Left: Village crew ready for work.

Right: Mayor Josh Schroeder conquered the tree tops with an extension saw. • Georgetown Village crews (of all ages) cleared branches and limbs from the community park.

A

s residents and businesses everywhere opened their doors...and their hearts... like Granger Smith, who paid for 50 pizzas for people without power to pick up at 600 Degrees, and Gumbo’s owners opening their kitchen and pantry for food pickup and power for charging... Councilmember Kevin Pitts and many of his neighbors went door to door in Berry Creek, twice, to help residents clear felled branches and limbs.

More than 60 people across much of west Georgetown showed up with chainsaws, clippers, and trucks to prove, once again, that Georgetown is a great place to live. Crews cut, cleared, and saved anything big enough for firewood, then dragged the rest curbside for the city to pick up at no cost. Kevin spent much of the week organizing volunteers, but also responding to hundreds of inquiries from residents, and posting Live videos on Facebook, often sitting in his truck for hours to keep his phone charged and online.

Block Captain Tony Vonboekhout said, “We are all happy to help. Information in days like this is critical, and while many people seem to distrust government, it is refreshing to have Kevin. He was there for us, many times, every day, and it was a comfort to count on him for information, however good or bad. He’s a good leader and I’m glad I live in Georgetown.”

Residents on the east side say Councilmember Rachel Jonrowe provided the same frequent updates, even if there was nothing new to report, simply to reach out and reassure people that she was with them.

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

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