2022 Taylor FYI

f.y. i.

2022

Your guide to East Williamson County

Samsung to Taylor $13 billion invested in growth

A Walk in the Park Parks across Williamson County offer fun and excitement

What’s up Doc? Hunt for Looney Tunes in local businesses

Press TAYLOR

Close to home Close to home.

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The care you need is right around the corner.

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The caremedicine you need is right aroundSurgery the corner.

Physical & rehabilitation Schedule appointments and get expert care at our location in Taylor.

24/7 Emergency Department Diagnostic services & imaging Pain management Physical medicine & rehabilitation

Pulmonary function testing Wellness & education pro Skilled nursing Women’s health center Sleep medicine (mammography and bon Call 737.888.3100 or scan Surgery the QR code to learn more.

305 Mallard Lane | Taylor, TX 76574 Baylor Scott & White Health accepts most major insurance plans, including Medicare.

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2022 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-TY-614257 GD

Call 737.888.3100 or scan

& we have a place for U!

1519 N. Main St. www.taylorchamber.org 512-352-6364 info@taylorchamber.org

WELCOME BACK TO

East WilCo

Welcome to WilCo

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FEATURE: Samsung comes to Taylor

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Church Directory

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City of Hutto

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City of Thrall

44

City of Coupland

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City of Granger

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City of Taylor

he COVID-19 pandemic shocked the world, but now that things are getting back to a form of normalcy, it’s time to explore East Williamson County.

This FYI magazine is your guide to East WilCo so you know where to find the best barbecue, local sporting events and beautiful parks.

Things you are guaranteed to find in East WilCo is wonderful people, appealing attractions, local shops and much more.

We hope this magazine helps you find hidden treasures in our part of the world. Just take a stroll through the downtowns of our beautiful cities and attend specials events and festivals.

If you are a native of Taylor, Coupland, Thrall, Granger or Hutto, we hope you’ll find a surprise or two hidden in these pages.

If you are new to town, this magazine can help you get your water and electricity hooked up, tell you who to call at City Hall if you have a problem and offer practical information about our schools.

Visitors can learn about our parks and our fabulous Moody Museum and, perhaps, why we believe Taylor is the Heart of the Texas BBQ Trail.

Finally, refer to this magazine as a guide to some of our most successful businesses. The folks who support this special publication with their advertising dollars hope you will stop by and see them. We do too. Please give them the opportunity to serve you.

We hope you will find this magazine useful and will keep it around your home or office as a source of local information. And please let us know if you want extra copies or have a suggestion as to how we can make it better.

Welcome to East WilCo. It’s a great place to visit and an even greater place to live.

JASON HENNINGTON Visit us at www.taylorpress.net for more information!

4 • FYI 2022

PUBLISHER@TAYLORPRESS.NET 512-352-8535

With three campuses nestled in Central Texas, Temple College serves as a foundation for excellence and a catalyst to success for all. Temple College is “Your Community’s College” and through innovation and continued excellence, we are building for the future.

templejc.edu/taylor

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AUTOMOTIVE FINISHES ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FOR A GREENER TOMORROW We love our new kitchen! It is everything we wanted and more. We highly recommend Eulenfeld Construction and Interiors. They are wonderful to work with and felt like family as they worked in our home . This is our third remodel working with them. We love every thing they have done for us. A great company and great people.

Ken and Marie Richter

512-365-3614 1508 W. 2nd Street • Taylor Richard Rumley-Manager

Craig & Tammy Eulenfeld 604 E. Lake Drive | Taylor, TX 76574 (512) 365-7174 • (512) 352-8314 www.eulenfeldinc.net Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 5

WELCOME TO THE AREA

N

ow that you’ve found one of the nicest places in Texas to call home, you might need some help getting settled.

By the way, in the rapidly growing Austin area, callers must dial all 10 digits of the phone number, even if it’s a local call. No need to dial a 1 or 0 first – just dial 512 and the number. If you forget, you’ll hear a recording reminding you and the call won’t go through.

FINDING A HOME If you’re looking for a place to live, there are several real estate agencies serving both Taylor and the surrounding areas.

The following among them are: • Brasfield Real Estate 512-365-6500 202 N. Main. St. www.brasfieldrealestate.com • Cornerstone Real Estate, Inc. 512-365-9548 105 W. Fourth St. www.cornerstone-realestate.com • Patschke and Patschke Real Estate LLC 512-365-1905 2403 N. Main www.patschkeproperties.com • RE/MAX Associates Group 512-365-8563 906 N. Main www.associatesreg.com • Terra Properties, Inc. 2007 N. Main St. 512-365-5555 LOOKING TO BUILD A HOME? • DR Horton Homes 512-598-6670 • Nanco Homes 512-365-1979 6 • FYI 2022

If you’re not quite ready for a house yet, there are several apartment complexes, including: • Main Street Commons 3700 N. Main www.apartmentsintaylortx.com 512-352-6068

• Tejas Apartments 2106 Holly Springs 512-365-6400

• Arbors of Taylor 201 Highland Dr. www.thearborsoftaylor.com 512-365-8571

• Heritage Oaks Apartments 213 Debus 844-789-7889

• Burnett Place 405 Sloan St. www.burnettplace.com 512-365-2500 • Lake View Apartments 800 Mallard Lane 512-365-3474 • Mallard Run Apartments 1000 Mallard Lane 512-352-8660 • Sunny Lane Apartments 2700 Sunny Lane 512-269-1065 • Taylor Square Apartments 1005 Cotton Bowl 512-352-8753 www.hamiltonvalley.com

• The Gardens of Taylor 319 Sloan St. #101 512-352-7620

After your move, you may need to return your U-Haul. We have three local U-Haul affiliates.

• Taylor Hutto Self Storage 4105 W. 2nd St. 512-365-1450 512-883-6142 • Pfluger Texaco 209 W. 2nd St. 512-352-2310 You also can rent flatbed trailers and moving equipment at a few locations in the area, including: • Ewald Kubota 3701 E. Fourth St. 512-352-5548 • Main Street Rental, 1811 N. Main St. 512-352-7368

UTILITIES ELECTRICITY In Eastern Williamson County, consumers have a choice of several utility providers that offer a number of different plans and rates. For a list of providers visit www.powertochoose. org online.

This website provides a list of providers, the plans they offer in this area, current rates per kilowatt hour and contact information.

If you have questions about choosing a provider or do not have Internet access, call (866) 797-4839.

While the power may come from different sources, transmission lines are managed by Oncor Electric Delivery. If you have a power interruption due to something other than a billing issue, the number to call is (888) 313-4747.

WATER & SEWER In Taylor, call the City of Taylor Utility Department, (512) 352-2066.

For Hutto, contact Jonah Water located on FM 1660, (512) 759-1286.

For many surrounding cities, a call to city hall also will get water and sewer

service started. Following are those phone numbers: • Granger (512) 859-2755 119 E. Devilla www.grangertx.us • Thrall (512) 898-5306 104 N. Main • Coupland, contact Manville Water at (512) 856-2488 or www.manvillewsc.org

at (512) 352-2066. The billing is handled by the city but company holding the solid waste service franchise in Taylor is Waste Connections. Included in the service is weekly trash pickup, twice-monthly recycling pickup and bulky wast pickup (brush, debris, old appliances). Call (512) 251-5622 for more information.

NATURAL GAS Atmos Energy is the natural gas provider in this area. The company’s customer service number is (800) 286-6700

OTHER RECYCLING The Williamson County Recycling Center is next to the landfill on FM 1660, north of Hutto. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday and accepts newspapers, magazines, aluminum cans, tin cans, glass and cardboard. It is not accept plastic bags, light bulbs, broken glass and hazardous waste.

RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING — HUTTO Contact the Utility Billing Division at City of Hutto to establish your garbage collection service. They may be reached at (512) 759-4055. The service provider for the City of Hutto is Al Clawson Disposal System.

RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING — TAYLOR To establish garbage collection in Taylor, contact the Utility Department

TELEPHONE There are as many options as there are people. Because Taylor is in the Austin metro, all calls must be placed using the area code first. No need for a 0 or 1, just dial 512, then your number.

INTERNET/CABLE/SATELLITE Several providers serve the area.

Our focus is exclusively on divorce and family law, and personal wills. We do not do anything else.

Our attorneys have over 35 combined years serving Williamson County; We know the courts and judges deciding your case.

Ms. Brown and both our paralegals are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Low cost initial family law consultation.

Patricia L. Brown & Associates Ms. Brown and Ms. Ahmed.

Ms. Brown is Founder and Managing Partner, Ms. Ahmed is Associate Attorney

595 Round Rock West Drive, Suite 201 Round Rock, TX 78681

512-246-1149

www.pbrownlaw.com | info@pbrownlaw.com Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 7

WILLIAMSON COUNTY LEADERSHIP Williamson County is one of the fastest growing counties in the country!

Located in Central Texas just north of the state capitol in Austin, Williamson County is gaining in its reputation as an exceptional place to live. Physically, the eastern part of the county is level black land soil and the western part rolling limestone hills, all drained by the San Gabriel River and tributaries. The county has a lively history including

Comanche’s, outlaws, Texas Rangers, the Chisholm Trail, cowboys, and sturdy pioneers. Today, the county is a center for agribusiness, education, and hightech industry.

Williamson County is blessed with a mild climate offering more than 300 sunny days each year, affordable living, good schools, clean air, scenic open spaces, and an abundance of recreational opportunities. The county is

TERRY COOK CYNTHIA LONG Commissioner Pct. 1 Commissioner Pct. 2 1801 East Old Settlers 350 Discovery Blvd., Blvd.

Suite 201 Suite #110 Cedar Park, TX 78613 Round Rock, TX 78664 Phone: 512-260-4280 Phone: 512-244-8610 Email: clong@ Email: commissioner1@ wilco.org wilco.org 8 • FYI 2022

VALERIE COVEY Commissioner Pct. 3 Georgetown Annex 100 Wilco Way, CO201 Georgetown, TX, 78626 Phone: 512-943-3370 Email: comm3@ wilco.org

well known for a very low crime rate and friendly, neighborly people. Unlike most states, Texas has no state personal income tax. All these reasons make Williamson County one of the most desirable places to live and work in the United States.

The county was organized in 1848 and named for Robert M. Williamson, pioneer leader and veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto.

RUSS BOLES Commissioner Pct. 4 321 Ed Schmidt Boulevard Suite #200 Hutto, Texas 78634 Phone: 512-943-3761 Email: russ.boles@ wilco.org

BILL GRAVELL County Judge Williamson County Historic Courthouse 710 S. Main Street, Ste. 101 Georgetown, TX 78626 Phone: 512-943-1550 Fax: 512-943-1662

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY CONSTABLE PRECINCT 4 Paul Leal 412 Vance Street, Suite 3 Taylor, Texas 76574 Taylor Phone: 512-352-4181 Metro Phone: 512-238-2181 Fax: 512-352-4186 Constable Leal: paul.leal@wilco.org Chief Brian Olson: brian.olson@ wilco.org Lieutenant Mike Pendley: mpendley@wilco.org

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY ATTORNEY Dee Hobbs Williamson County Justice Center County Attorney’s Office 405 M.L.K., Suite 229 Georgetown, Texas 78626 Phone: 512-943-1111 Fax: 512-943-1120 Office Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday - Friday

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JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 4 Judge Stacy Hackenberg 211 W Sixth St Taylor, Texas 76574 Phone: 512-352-4155 Fax: 512-352-4194 Juror Information Line: 512-3524820 Office Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Mike Gleason Williamson County, Texas 508 S. Rock St. Georgetown, Tx 78626 Phone: 512-943-1300 Non-Emergency: 512864-8282 Fax: 512-943-1444

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City Boundary Bartlett Coupland Georgetown Granger Hutto

Legend

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Pflugerville Round Rock

Road River/Creek Lake

Taylor Thorndale Thrall

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DISCLAIMER - PLEASE READ: This map is for general planning purposes only. The basemap conforms to National Map Accuracy Standards in unobstructed areas. Williamson County makes no warranty, representation or guarantee as to the content, sequence, accuracy, timeliness or completeness of any of the database information or spatial locations depicted. Furthermore, all warranties on merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose are hereby disclaimed.

In no event shall Williamson County be liable to the recipient or any other party for damages of any type, including but not limited to incidental, consequential or exemplary damages arising out of the use or inability to use these materials.

MAP DATE: 4/23/2020 MAP AUTHOR: GIS Staff MAP CONTACT: GIS Staff Williamson County 301 SE Inner Loop Suite 105 Georgetown, TX 78627 gis@wilco.org

Timmy & Nancy Talley, Owners

(512) 365-1979

nancohomes@att.net | www.nancohomesinc.com

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A reputation for excellence Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 9

City of Taylor T

he City of Taylor has an elected city council that is comprised of five council members, four of whom are elected from single member districts and one member elected at-large. Council members elect a Mayor and a Mayor Pro Tem every year after the election.

Taylor is a home-rule city, which means that the council can enact legislation, adopt budgets, and determine policies, subject only to limitations imposed by the State constitution and the City charter.

MEETINGS Council meetings are held at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month in the council chambers at city hall, 400 Porter St. Visit the City’s video page to watch council and other city meetings live or view them at a later date. Special meetings are called as needed and are posted on this website and at city hall 72 hours prior to the meeting date and time.

CITY COUNCIL District 1: Gerald Anderson, Mayor Pro Tem Gerald.adnerson@taylortx.gov District 2: Mitchell Drummond mitchell.drummond@taylortx.gov District 3: Brandt Rydell, Mayor brandt.rydell@taylortx.gov District 4: Robert Garcia robert.garcia@taylortx.gov At Large: Dwayne Ariola dwayne.ariola@taylortx.gov 10 • FYI 2022

CITY HALL Address: 400 Porter St., Taylor Phone: (512) 352-3675 Website: www.taylortx.gov Facebook page: City of Taylor Texas CITY ADMINISTRATION • City Manager: Brian LaBorde, 512352-3677, brian.laborde@taylortx.gov • Deputy City Manager: Jeffery Jenkins, 512-352-6475, ext. 34, jeffery. jenkins@taylortx.gov • Assistant City Manager: Tom Yantis, 512-365-3863, tom.yantis@ taylortx.gov • Executive Assistant: Rocio Lopez, 512-363-3774, Rocio.lopez@taylortx.gov OTHER DEPARTMENTS LOCATED AT CITY HALL • Public Works Director: Jim Gray 512-352-5818, jim.gray@taylortx.gov • City Clerk: Diana McLean, 512-3523676, diana.mclean@taylortx.gov

• Public Information Officer: Stacy Osborn, 512-352-5448, pio@taylortx.gov • Taylor Main Street: Jan Harris, 512-352-3463, jan.harris@taylortx.gov • Finance Department: Jeffery Wood, 512-309-6168, jeffery.wood@ taylortx.gov • Human Resources: LaShon Gros, 512-352-5993, lashon.gros@taylortx.gov • Senior Planner: Shelly Shelton, 512309-6186, shelly.shelton@taylortx.gov • Code Enforcement Officer: Omar Lopez, 512-309-6171, omar.lopez@ taylortx.gov • Utility Billing Department Manager: Nicole Luna 512-352-2066, nicole.luna@taylortx.gov Office hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Online payments: www.taylortx.gov CITY DEPARTMENTS LOCATED OFF-SITE • Water/Waster Water, 1201 N. Main St. 512-352-3251

• Parks and Recreation, 1424 N. Main St. Director: Tyler Bybee 512309-6266 Superintendent: Casey Cunningham 512-309-6266 • Municipal Court, 109 W. Fifth St. Judge: Randall Pick, 512352-5977 City Attorney: Ted Hejl, 512-352-5977 Court is being held virtually every other Thursday until August with sign in beginning at 8 a.m. and court beginning about 9:30 a.m. with cases heard on a first come firstserved basis.

• Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St. Director: Karen Ellis 512-352-3434, karen.ellis@taylortx.gov Website: www.taylor.lib.tx.us Hours: Monday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

EMERGENCY SERVICES Taylor Police Department

taylortx.gov Administrative Assistant: Michele Vrabel, michele. vrabel@taylortx.gov Northwest Station, 705 NW Carlos G. Parker Blvd.

512-352-5232

500 S. Main St. Non-Emergency: 512-352-5551 Website: www.taylortx.gov Chief of Police: Henry Fluck, 512352-5552, henry.fluck@taylortx.gov Emergency Services If you have an emergency, please call 9-1-1 Taylor Fire Department Main Station, 304 E 3rd St. 512-352-6992 Website: www.ci.taylor.tx.us:/24/fire Fire Chief/Emergency Management Coordinator: Daniel Baum, daniel.baum@taylortx.gov Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal: Bobby Copeland, robert.copeland@

You Won’t Believe Your Eyes!

Taylor Animal Control 500 S. Main St., Taylor 512-352-6992 Animal Control Officer: Sandy Perio, sandy.piero@ taylortx.gov Volunteer coordinator: Susan Davis, susan.davis@ taylortx.gov Questions about any animal matter, call 512-352-5551 Website: www.ci.taylor.tx.us TAYLOR MUNICIPAL AIRPORT 303 Airport Rd. Suite 1, Taylor Airport Manager: David Cornelius 512352-5747, david.cornelius@taylortx. gov Taylor Municipal Airport is on Highway 79 North West of Taylor. The Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division has classified the airport as a general utility business service airport.

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512-352-8535 Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 11

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PARKS AND RECREATION TAYLOR PARKS All Taylor city parks have free Wi-Fi POOLS The city of Taylor offers a pool and two splash pads for residents and area visitors to enjoy. There are no public lockers at the pool.

The pool is: The Doris Roznovak Park Aquatic Center 1600 Veterans Dr. There is a designated lap lane at this city pool, open during regular hours.

Regular Hours: Memorial Day, May 31 through Labor Day, Sept. 6.

Tuesday - Saturday noon to 8 p.m.

Sunday 1 to 8 p.m.

Monday - Closed Pool closes for the season after Sept. 6, 2021 Pool Admission Fees Children under age 3: Free admission Children ages 4 to 12: $2 each Adults/Children over age 12: $3 each Seniors (ages 60+): $2 each Family Pass (30 Admissions) = $45 Family Pass (60 Admissions) = $90 Pool passes can be purchased at the pool.

Robinson Park Splash Pad 206 S. Dolan Ave. The Splash Pad is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

12 • FYI 2022

Rules are: • No pets allowed, except for service animals.

• All children must have adult supervision at all times.

• Children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper covered by a bathing suit at all times.

• Changing a baby’s diaper within 6 feet of the splash pad is prohibited.

• Running, rough play or climbing on splash pad features is prohibited.

• Do not drink the water as it is chlorinated more than drinking water.

• No food, beverages, gum, candy or glass containers are allowed on or near the splash pad.

• At the first sign of thunder or lightning, please vacate the splash pad and seek shelter. Remain in the shelter until at least 30 minutes after the last sight of thunder or lightning.

• The City of Taylor reserves the right to remove a participant/spectator from the splash pad area for

violating any of the above rules.

• To activate the water, locate the black button labeled “Get Wet” on the ground near the splash pad and touch with a bare hand or foot.

Water will not flow before or after the splash pad’s open hours.

RECREATION FACILITIES The Taylor park system includes seven parks and open space areas encompassing more than 300 acres. All parks in the city’s park system have free wi-fi.

• Murphy Park Located near the intersection of Hwy. 95 and Lake Drive in central Taylor.

Murphy Park encompasses about 120 acres including a lake for fishing, a bandstand, a large pavilion for public rental, children’s playgrounds, picnic tables, lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, a football field, baseball fields, sand volleyball courts and the Doris Roznovok Aquatic Center.

• Heritage Square Located downtown.

Heritage Square includes a Memorial Garden, an amphitheater, pavilion and splash pad.

• Pierce Park Adjacent to Heritage Square, Third and Porter streets.

Pierce Park includes 14,000 square feet of skateable surface and shaded areas. Suitable for skate boards or BMX bikes.

• Taylor Regional Park and Sports Complex Located on Carlos G. Parker Boulevard in north Taylor.

Taylor Regional Park is a 75-acre park that serves as an athletic complex for the area and includes 10 lighted tournament quality ball fields complete with wireless scoreboards, shaded stadium style bleachers, moveable pitching mounds and base paths with three concession stands and restrooms and parking for 650 vehicles. The fully lighted park also includes additional athletic fields and amenities, including a full-size football field, two soccer fields, two basketball courts, a covered pavilion, two modern playscapes, and a hike and bike trail.

The park also features an innovative nature conservation project and a sixacre lake that are perfect for outdoor education. The park is located at 210 Carlos Parker Blvd. in Taylor. For more information, call (512) 365-7669.

• Bull Branch Park Located in northwest Taylor.

Bull Branch Park has a large stocked fishing pond and a pavilion for public

use. It also contains a playscape, disc golf course and a section of the city’s seven-mile hike and bike trail.

• Fannie Robinson Park Located in southeast Taylor.

Robinson Park has a splash pad, a softball field, playscape, basketball courts, walking trails and picnic areas and a large pavilion available for public rental.

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AREA PARK ROUNDUP Play For All in Round Rock

P la y ! &

COME OUT

BY EDIE ZUVANICH WILCO – Central Texas is paradise for people who love the outdoors. Opportunities to play outside rank among the top reasons people give for moving here. In fact, there’s so much to do it can seem overwhelming at first. To make it easier, we’ve compiled this roundup of a dozen (more or less) of our favorite outdoor spaces for you to explore. Whether you’re a new arrival or a dyed-in-the-wool native, you might find a new favorite place to go and enjoy a day of play, whatever that looks like to you. Listed by area for your planning convenience.

TAYLOR A greenbelt of parks built around water features and oldgrowth trees distinguish Taylor’s open space program. City Council member Mitch Drummond is among many outdoor enthusiasts who take advantage of the hike-and-bike trail that connect several of the parks. “The trail is great for riding or walking, and the city has recently started a new public art project on the meters along the trail so keep an eye out for the new paintings,” Drummond encouraged. Find out more about Taylor parks at www.ci.taylor.tx.us/773/Parks-and-Trails.

Bull Branch Park 1902 N. Lynn Street Your day visiting the Taylor parks should start at Bull Branch Park. Play a round of disc golf under the shade with the sound of Bull Branch Creek bubbling along beside you.

Take a moment to walk around the pond, hang out on the pier, let the kids play in the playground, fish or watch the antics of the ducks and geese that live there year-round. Catch the beginning of the 3-mile hike-and-bike trail and take the pedestrian bridge to adjoining Murphy Park.

Murphy Park 1600 Veterans Drive Renowned for summer bird watching, with hundreds of egrets roosting on a small island in the middle of City Lake, this picturesque park also features a municipal swimming pool, tennis courts, sand volleyball court, athletic fields and playgrounds.

Fanny Robinson Park 206 S. Dolan Street At the end of the hike-and-bike trail, you’ll find Fanny Robinson Park where you can cool off in the seasonal splash pad or shoot some hoops before heading back.

Also worth visiting: Taylor Regional Park is a state-of-the-art sports complex hosting tournaments year-round. You’ll also find a lake with a concrete fishing pier and a nature preserve to explore.

Heritage Square is a landscaped downtown City Park with plenty of shade, a splashpad, and easy access to downtown shopping and dining. Pierce Park Skatepark is located just across the street.

Things to know before you go Fishing is a popular sport in the area and many parks offer fishing opportunities. Residents and non-residents age 17 and above must have a Texas fishing license to fish in public waters. For rules and exceptions visit https://tpwd. texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/licenses/fishing-licenses-stamps-tags-packages/fishing-licenses-and-packages for more information.

This roundup highlights a dozen worthwhile places for you to hang out in the outdoors, but there are dozens more to explore. Eastern Wilco is a land of opportunity when it comes to quality of life for those who love adventure and are willing to try new things. So, pick up a cricket bat for the first time, or a Frisbee™ or even a fishing pole, and find a new passion.

Is there a place you think we should include in our next issue of outdoor parks and destinations? Let us know with a comment on Facebook.com/GoTaylorTx. Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 17

GEORGETOWN As the county seat, historic Georgetown is worth planning a day trip to for sightseeing and shopping as well as the many fine parks. One of the most popular outdoor destinations is Sweet Eats Fruit Farm. Sweet Eats calls itself an adventure farm and petting zoo, while Admissions and Store Director Katherine Hime Way calls it “an absolutely great summer activity for the whole family.”

“Sweet Eats is a place where you can connect with your family and disconnect from your electronics,” she said.

“Something new this year is that our farm store is now open in the big barn, and it’s our first year adding vegetables to our pick-your-own gardens. We’re also experimenting with adding more adult events like a wine tasting during the sunflower fest in July.”

Sweet Eats Fruit Farm 14400 E. State Highway 29, www. sweeteats.com Pick your own fruits and vegetables.

Check their website to see what is currently in season for picking. Pay by the pound for what you pick, and there is no admission fee for this activity.

An admission fee is required for everything other than the pick-your-own farm. This gives you mostly unlimited access to dozens of activities including pony rides, the petting zoo, a metal maze, cool play areas and daily events like pig races and tug-of-war contests.

While the kids look forward to face painting, parents can enjoy the peaceful farm environment with plenty of open spaces for playing or relaxing. You can also hang out in a hammock while you listen to live music or enjoy lunch from the food stands.

Special events are a large draw, and some will require a special ticket. Make plans to visit during the annual pumpkin patch, corn maze and Christmas festivals. July marks their annual sunflower festival with over 6.5 acres of sunflowers you can wander through and pick. Keep updated by visiting their website or facebook.com/sweeteats.

Sweet Eats does not accept cash payments. No pets are allowed.

ROUND ROCK There are almost 40 developed parks in Round Rock, and all have their charms but two of the most popular are known as well for their uniqueness.

Play For All Abilities 151 North A.W. Grimes Blvd, www.roundrocktexas.gov/city-departments/parks-and-recreation/ play-for-all-park 18 • FYI 2022

Sweet Eats in Georgetown

Play For All Park was designed for children of all different levels of physical abilities. If you’re looking for a play area that’s unlike any other, this is a must-visit. Your kids can explore a musical instrument stage, a cityscape roadway for developing skills on bikes, trikes or skates, a sand and mud play area, a children’s zip line, an extensive all-abilities playscape, sensory stations and a swing area that accommodates wheelchairs.

The Brushy Creek Regional Trail running behind the park is wide enough for strollers or wheelchairs so you can get in a walk before heading back.

This gated park is free to the public and does not allow pets.

Old Settlers Park 3300 Palm Valley Blvd, www.roundrocktexas.gov/city-departments/ parks-and-recreation/old-settlerspark Round Rock considers Old Settlers Park its crown jewel of parks. You’ll find 650 acres of rolling fields, playscapes, trails, picnic areas and more. It boasts a fishing lake, regulation cricket field, 18-hole disc golf course, swimming pool and a regulated area for remote control airplane launch and landing. It’s also well known for the many festivals and concerts held there. Round Rock prides itself on being the “Sports Capital Of Texas” and Old Settlers Park is the setting for impeccably maintained competition baseball, softball, football and soccer fields.

GRANGER Monica Stojanik calls Granger Lake a hidden gem in our area. As Mayor of the City of Granger and a fourth generation Granger native, she’s an advocate for the peace and quiet of rural life and counts the peaceful waters of Granger Lake as part of that lifestyle.

“It’s big enough for all types of water-

sports and it’s not crowded, so there’s a lot of opportunity to really enjoy the lake and parks,” Stojanik said. “If you have a smaller boat you can go way up into the shallow areas of the lake for the best fishing.”

Granger Lake is consistently ranked in the top five Texas lakes for white bass fishing.

Something unique to Granger Lake is the sense of camaraderie that larger lakes don’t have, according to Stojanik. “This lake attracts people who fall in love with it and come out every weekend, and they see the other regulars and get to know each other, and it becomes a kind of community where people bond over the lifestyle,” she said. Stojanik points out that even if you don’t have a watercraft, there are swimming beaches and a hiking trail and in many areas, you can drive right up to the water and picnic.

Granger Lake offers four improved recreation areas (fee required) and two unimproved access areas.

Wilson H Fox Recreation Area Enter through FM 1331. Fee required.

Concrete boat ramp Camping/RVing by reservation Goup Picnic Areas Swimming Beach Playground Willis Creek Recreation Area Enter through CR346. Fee required.

Concrete boat ramp Camping/RVing by reservation Group Picnic Areas by reservation Fishing Dock Swimming Beach Playground Taylor Park Enter through FM1331. Fee required.

Concrete boat ramp Camping/RVing by reservation Playground Multipurpose trail

friends and family without a care in the world, and you’re picturing these parks.

Fritz Park in Hutto Friendship Park Enter through FM971. Fee required.

Concrete boat ramp Camping/RVing by reservation Wildlife viewing No Fee Access – There are two primitive areas where you can access the water without a fee. The San Gabriel Wildlife Management Area has an unimproved boat launch for kayaks and jon boats (no trailer ramp). The San Gabriel Dam Overlook has a rocky path down to the lake that requires some physical ability to manage, with limited parking up at the overlook.

Granger Lake and its recreation areas are managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. For information or reservations call (512) 859-2668 or reserve online at www.recreation.gov/camping/ gateways/515. Entrance fees must be paid with credit or debit card.

HUTTO To borrow a line from the Beach Boys, Hutto’s parks are made for people who want to get there fast and then take it slow. The city maintains its parks well and there are several nice green spaces in the area. Picture yourself enjoying a peaceful day relaxing with

Adam Orgain Park (formerly called The Park at Brushy Creek) 1001 CR 137, www.huttotx.gov/ facilities/facility/details/HuttoPark-at-Brushy-Creek-6 Located on the banks of Brushy Creek, this peaceful park offers two pavilions, an amphitheater, beautiful views and lots of space for fun. Expansive well-maintained grounds leave your day’s activities up to your imagination, with plenty of space for playing catch or catching up with friends.

Fritz Park 400 Park Avenue, www.huttotx. gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/ Fritz-Park-2 Travel the walking trail through this park and you’ll find tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, a basketball court, a covered playground, a pavilion, and a picturesque bridge over a slow creek. You’ll also find the community spirit of Hutto is alive and well when you catch a game at Holstrom Field or Old Hippo Stadium. Continue along the walking trail under Highway 79 and you’ll find more picnic sites, trails and another playground at nearby Creekside Park.

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 19

Starting out as a Korean trading store selling dried fish and noddles in 1938, the multinational chipmaker is now committed to constructing a $17 billion facility near Taylor High School that could help quiet a global clamor for advanced semiconductors, as well as reduce the country’s reliance on foreign sources for technology. The fabrication plant, called a fab or a foundry, is only now in its earliest stages just off Texas 79 at county roads 401 and 404.

Samsung will grant to Taylor annual contributions of $300,000 — $150,000 to be used by the city and $150,000 for civic and charitable organizations. Also, just as Samsung’s Austin plant has done with the Manor Independent School District, the chipmaker will provide financial support to the Taylor Independent School District to create a Samsung Skills Center.

The tax abatement agreement between Samsung and the city is contingent on job creation and the discount on the property taxes goes down some every decade until disappearing after 30 years. Taxes paid by Samsung during those three decades are expected to total about $52 million. Under the agreement with Williamson County, Samsung would pay its property taxes in full each year and then receive a refund for 90% of it the first 10 years and 85% the second 10 years.

20 • FYI 2022

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On Nov. 23, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that Samsung plans to invest $17 billion and build a semiconductor manufacturing plant on six million square feet in Taylor. The plant is expected to create 2,585 new jobs, with 785 indirect jobs and 1,800 direct employment positions at the facility.

Taylor Independent School District has a new tax increment reinvestment zone that could be used for Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s new facility coming to Taylor. On May 24, Taylor ISD’s board of trustees held a public hearing and then approved with a 6-0 vote with board president Marco Ortiz’s abstention on the creation of a reinvestment zone and applications from Samsung for agreements for an appraised value limitation.

The appraised value limitations are part of Chapter 313 of the Texas Tax Code.

According to the Texas Comptroller’s Office, an appraised value limitation is an agreement in which a taxpayer agrees to build or install property and create jobs in exchange for a 10-year limitation on the taxable property value for school district maintenance and operations tax purposes. The minimum limitation value varies by school district.

On March 21, Samsung officials announced that the application process for the Taylor High School internship program was launching. Samsung will hire a minimum of 24 seniors from Taylor High School who will work six weeks at either the Samsung Taylor construction site or the manufacturing facility in Austin.

They will work 40 hours a week and will be paid for 40 hours.

FYI 2022 • 21

Calendar of Events Monthly EvEnts G21 CAR SHOW G21 Car Show is on the fourth Sunday of every month beginning at about 8 a.m. It will be held 3100 N. Main Street.

Several different charities benefit from it throughout the year.

SECOND SATURDAY Join us on the second Saturday of the month for events in our parks and all over town. Specials and bargains in our downtown shops and cool drinks at our “rest stops.”

THIRD MONDAY The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce hosts a luncheon at Sirloin Stockade the third Monday of each month. The topics vary but usually focus on Taylor issues. Open members and non-members.

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YOUR GOVERNMENT TAYLOR CITY COUNCIL The Taylor City Council meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, 6 p.m. at City Hall, 400 Porter St. Agendas are posted to the city’s website Tuesday prior.

Meetings are streamed live from the city’s website. You may sign up for notifications about this and other Taylor boards and commissions on the homepage of the city’s website, ci.taylor.tx.us.

TAYLOR SCHOOL BOARD Taylor school trustees meet 7 p.m. the third

WEEKLY CIVIC CLUB MEETINGS Taylor Lions Club Every Friday at Noon at Sirloin Stockade TAYLOR ROTARY CLUB Every Thursdays at noon at Sirloin Stockade TAYLOR KIWANIS CLUB Every Wednesday noon at Sirloin Stockade THURSDAY Interested in local and college sports?

Check out “Around the Water Cooler,” a lively and opinionated show produced by the Taylor Press. New shows every Thursday at 11 a.m. Streamed live on Facebook @GoTaylorTx.

JANUARY MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MARCH AND PROGRAM Begins in Robinson Park at 9 a.m. and ends at City Hall. Following the march is a program that begins at 10 a.m.

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CHAMBER & COMMUNITY AWARDS BANQUET 6 p.m. Chair’s reception begins this evening that includes dinner, an introduction of Chamber leadership and presentation of awards for Business of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, Woman of the Year, Customer Service of the Year and Citizen of the Year.

TAYLOR LIONS CLUB CHILI SUPPER This only happens once a year so don’t miss your chance. A $10 donation gets you a big bowl of Texas Chili! Drive-thru only, limited tickets at the event so purchase ahead of time. All proceeds help the Leader Dogs for the Blind program, Texas Lions Camp and several local organizations RUN FOR THE ROSES Each year on the Third Saturday in January the Taylor Garden Club sponsors the “Run for the Roses” 5K Race along the hike and bike trails throughout the Taylor parks system.

FEBRUARY VICTORIAN VALENTINE GALA The Moody Museum is at the corner of Ninth and Talbot Streets, Taylor. To learn more, call 512-365-7396 The event kicks

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HERITAGE SQUARE FARMER’S MARKET The Heritage Square Farmer’s Market is a weekly year-round market offering a variety of high-quality locally grown produce, responsibly raised meats, and unique handmade goods from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans.

The Heritage Square Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Heritage Square Pavilion.

Monday of the month, in the board room at the central administration office, 3101 N. Main Street. Agendas are posted to the school’s website the Friday prior to the meeting.

512-352-5248

THIRD THURSDAY The Third Thursday of every month, our downtown shops stay open until 8 p.m. 120 Art Gallery opens a new exhibit and music fills Texas Beer Company, Taylor Station and other venues around the area.

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Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 23

off the membership drive for the Friends of the Moody Museum. Those who attend will be treated to music played on the Moody family piano (circa1901).

There will also be food and drink for guests to enjoy. Tickets will be available at the door.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Special programs sponsored by the O.L. Price Ex-Student’s Association and Taylor High School. Activities are held at various Taylor schools.

MARCH SPRING HEALTH FAIR At the Taylor ISD Events Center, 3101 N. Main, for face painting, balloon animals, door prizes, free healthy snacks, fresh popcorn, and other fun surprises.

TAYLOR PUBLIC LIBRARY During Spring break, the library will host movies, crafts all week and a truck petting zoo.

EASTER EGG HUNTS City Easter Egg hunt at Heritage

Square. Children are divided into two age groups, ages 1 through and ages 4 through 6. One parent or adult must accompany each child. Contact Jan Harris at 512-352-3463 or jan.harris@ taylortx.gov for more information.

Mega Egg Hunt hosted by the Braided and Faded Crew is held in Fannie Robinson Park. There are five hunts for different ages from 0 to adults.

APRIL VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE Deadline to register to vote for the City Council and School Board elections across the county. Election Day is the first Saturday in May.

MAY BLACKLAND PRAIRIE DAYS First Saturday in May. Live talent, food, arts & crafts, children’s activities in downtown Taylor beginning at 10 a.m.

Contact Jan Harris at 512-352-3463 or Jan.Harris@taylortx.gov for more information.

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Senior Ministry Scout Troop 167 Since 1928 512-352-2327 stpauloffice@austin.twcbc.com www.stpaultaylor.com

24 • FYI 2022

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Summer Fun Program 512-352-2773 stpaulcdc@austin.rr.com www.stpaultaylorcdc.com

LOCAL ELECTIONS First Saturday in May. Seats on the area school boards and the city councils are up for voter consideration. Watch the Taylor Press print edition and website for candidate profiles and election information.

GRANGER LAKEFEST Held Mother’s Day weekend in May the park across from Granger City Hall, 214 E. Davilla Street, Granger Lakefest includes a kolache sale, parade, arts and crafts, a barbecue cook off, children’s activities, an auction, a car/truck/tractor/motorcycle show and horseshoe tournament. Enjoy a variety of food and drink, live music during the day and a dance in the evening. Call Granger City Hall at (512) 859-2755.

FIESTA AMISTAD Fiesta Amistad has grown into Central Texas’ largest Hispanic two-day event.

Held on Memorial Day weekend at the Old Settlers Association, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd. on Hwy 79, east of Round Rock, the festival sponsored by Round Rock’s El Amistad Club features live music, plenty of food and family entertainment. Find out more at www.elamistadclub.com SWIMMING! Taylor City Pools open Memorial Day weekend — Murphy Park Aquatic Center and Robinson Pool, open for the summer.

COMMUNITY MEMORIAL SERVICE Memorial Day — Join Taylor-area veterans for a moving tribute at Murphy Park Liberty Gardens, 1600 Veterans Dr.

JUNE TAYLOR INTERNATIONAL BBQ COOK-OFF Second Saturday in June. Barbecue Bob returns to Taylor under the direction of the Taylor Rodeo Association as area barbecue cookers compete in one of the state’s most prestigious cook offs. Watch @TaylorBBQcookoff on Facebook for details.

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION The Braided Faded Crew and the Bill Pickett Educational Foundation host the Juneteenth celebration in Fannie Robinson Park. The event is a time to come and enjoy the park and fellowship with others while celebrating Juneteenth.

STILES FARM FIELD DAYS Field Day at Stiles Farm is held every June at the 3,000-acre farm located at

5700 FM 1063 in Thrall.

New and innovative farm practices are demonstrated at the historic farm operated by the Stiles Farm Foundation. Field Days have been hosted there since 1963 and attract large groups to view demonstrations and education exhibits. For more, call 512-898-2214.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S POSSE RODEO Sanctioned by the Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association, this rodeo includes some of the top cowboys from all over the US and is sure to entertain. The rodeo is held annually at the Show Barn in San Gabriel Park, 415 E. Morrow Street. Find out more at www.georgetownrodeo.com or by calling 512-966-9778.

RODEO GALA AND BLACKLAND BULL BUCK OUT The Taylor Rodeo Association hosts its kick-off gala and the Blackland Bull Buck Out event at the Williamson County Expo Center. The gala includes happy hour, dinner and live music. The following day, 40 of the best bull riders in the country compete for $20,000 in prizes. The event features live music and a silent auction.

All proceeds support the philanthropic mission to provide scholarships to graduates in the area.

JULY TAYLOR’S 4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS The American Legion Graham D. Luhn in Taylor hosts the event in the afternoon and evening July 4 at Murphy Park, 1600 Veterans Drive. The patriotic event brings people from all over to a celebration in Murphy Park. The swimming pool is open. Food vendors. Cap the evening off

with a tremendous fireworks display.

TAYLOR PRESS ANNUAL 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT The second weekend in July. The Taylor Press hosts an annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament to fund its scholarship, which is given to an area high school student. A portion of the proceeds is also donated to a local non-profit organization. Age divisions for the event are 11-14, 15-17 and 18 and older (anyone who has played varsity level will play in this division).

For more information, call Director Jason Hennington at 512-352-8535.

TAYLOR RODEO Since 1950 Taylor Rodeo Association has proudly produced the Taylor Annual Rodeo in the home town of Bill Pickett.

The crowds that come to this yearly event have grown because of the enthusiasm and the excitement, but most of all for the entertainment they receive. It is one of the biggest and best small-town rodeos anywhere.

AUGUST MICHELLE’S HOT PEEPS BEAT CC 5K/1K Join us for this regional event benefitting the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation while bringing awareness to this insidious, silent killer. Help us fund research to find the cause, detection, and treatments which work. Let’s get individuals, families, and friends all out to the starting line on race day for a great time celebrating life and family. This is a chip-timed 5K Fun Run/ Walk and Kids’ Dash (Kids’ of all ages!).

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 25

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26 • FYI 2022

SEPTEMBER LABOR DAY HOLIDAY Area schools and government offices will be closed.

KIDFISH AT BULL BRANCH PARK. Usually in September, the event is an opportunity for children to learn to fish and put their teachings to use for prizes.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and fishing starts at 9 a.m. Free to children under age.

PATRIOT DAY MEMORIAL The First Baptist church of Taylor and the Taylor Fire Departments host a march through downtown then a memorial service at Heritage Square to honor the emergency workers who died during the 9/11 attacked on New York City and Washington DC. TAYLOR CHAMBER BUSINESS AND JOB EXPO Presented by the Taylor Chamber of commerce and the Taylor Economic Development Corp. at the Williamson County Exposition Center, this event includes booths, information and exhibits from an array of area businesses and organizations. A resume workshop and career and job fairs will be held to round out the experience. Call 512-352-6364 or visit taylorchamber.org for more information. Free to the public.

S.P.J.S.T. BARBECUE COOK OFF The Taylor SPJST Lodge #29’s Annual Barbecue Cook-off. Barbecue cooks from across Central Texas submit entries in a variety of categories, including pork ribs, brisket, chicken, jackpot beans, cook’s

choice, dessert and even best rig. The event features a silent auction and two days of live music and dancing. To find out more, visit www.taylorchamber.org or call 512-365-8485.

OCTOBER GOOD LIFE TAYLOR Good Life Taylor, Texas raises money for specially-selected community improvement projects. The fair focuses on outdoors, family activities including park use, pets, home gardening and backyard poultry keeping. Enjoy a quiet, quaint, but quick run. Designed with input from competitive runners, our course zips you through North Taylor with multiple changes in scenery on a flat route. Start and finish in Bull Branch Park, but you’ll also experience a bit of our countryside and Taylor living. Contact Julie Rydell at 512-294-1972 or visit http://www.goodlifetaylor.com for more information.

FALL FESTIVAL The Fall Festival features free flu shots, activities and fun for everyone. The event also includes a tiny animal petting zoo, farmers market, bounce house, face painting, giveaways, music and healthy living activities for all ages. For more information visit www.lifeparkcenter. com/events.

HUTTO OLDE TYME DAYS Go back in time at Hutto’s Olde Tyme Days downtown along historic East Street. Arts, crafts, games, a parade and musical performances have made this old-fashioned festival a family favorite for nearly 30 years. For details, visit www. huttooldetymedays.com or contact the

Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce, 512759-4400.

MAIN STREET CAR SHOW The last weekend in October. When the F-1 tours Austin’s Circuit of the Americas in late October, Taylor celebrates! Taylor’s Historic Main Street hosts its own F-1 car show sponsored by the City of Taylor. In addition to cars, find an automotive art exhibition, prizes and a whole lot more!

COUPLAND CHOO CHOO FEST The annual Choo Choo Fest is held at St. Peter’s Church of Coupland. This event raises funds to maintain Coupland’s historic Depot and caboose and features a barbecue dinner, silent auction, bake sale, and free rides for the whole family on the Kiddie Express train.

DUCKS UNLIMITED BANQUET Ducks Unlimited, established in 1937, is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing water fowl habitats.

The largest percentage of Ducks Unlimited’s conservation expenditure is derived from local fund-raising banquets. These dinners are fun, social events attended by men, women, and children who really care about the future of their environment.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY RODEO AND FAIR The rodeo will be a Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association and a United Professional Rodeo Association sanctioned event. It will be a traditional eight-event rodeo and will include bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, tiedown calf roping, ladies breakaway roping, team roping, ladies barrel racing and bull riding. There will also be special events such as kids’ mutton bustin’, a kids’ calf scramble and a drill team on horseback.

The carnival will have rides, pig races, a petting zoo and a meet the mustang tent.

There will also be games such as cornhole, washers, nostalgic games and more. The event will also feature vendors, a farmer’s market and a wine and beer garden.

SPOOKTACULAR On Halloween, Oct. 31, ghosts and goblins haunt the downtown square in a festival that features costume contests, games a Ghost Walk and fun!

NOVEMBER VETERANS 5K BEER RUN The American Legion Graham D. Lund Post 39 hosts its annual Veterans 5K Beer Run for anyone who wants to participate.

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The course is 3.1 miles with eight beer stations throughout the race. Each station has water and a 4-ounce taster, which equates to two and half beers during the race. Runners are not required to drink beer.

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DECEMBER PARADE OF LIGHTS First weekend in December. Travel down Main Street begins at 7 p.m. Must register for the parade in advance. Largest parade in the area.

MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS BAZAAR City Hall Auditorium — Event will take place inside the auditorium and outside in the parking lot. Shop for holiday gifts from local artisans.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT THE MOODY MUSEUM All local school children from kindergarten through fourth grade are invited to the museum to handcraft Christmas ornaments which they will then take home with them.

All children should be accompanied by a parent and it is a beautiful time to see the home decorated as it might have been when the Moody family lived there. Many families pose for Christmas photos in front of the tree.

SANTA ON THE SQUARE Visit Santa Thursday-Saturdays in December, 6:30-8:30 WCLA LIVESTOCK SHOW & YOUTH FAIR Each year, hundreds of Williamson County FFA and 4-H members participate in the Williamson County Livestock Show. Funds raised through the junior livestock show auction go directly to the youth to help offset the costs associated with raising livestock projects. The money students receive is reinvested in the community through the purchase of goods and services and portions are saved for furthering their education.

Immanuel Lutheran Church, located at 411 CR 401 in Taylor, will have their annual Pilgrimage to Bethlehem and live nativity.

The event is a chance to walk through and watch the Christmas story play out before your eyes. Follow the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem’s stable. Mingle with people in biblical era costumes and feel the stern looks of the Roman guards. Share the joy of shepherds hearing angels proclaim the good news of the Messiah’s birth, and join the wise men in paying homage to the newborn King. Free tours are every 20 minutes between 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.

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LOONEY TUNES ON THE LOOSE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

Co-sponsored by the Shining Stars

JULY 9 - 10 at Taylor Middle School $50 per team with up to four players on a team

Men's and Women's divisions

AGE DIVISIONS: Age groups 11-14, 15-17, 18 and older (anyone who has played varsity level will play in this division) Winners receive rings and more 3-point contest, free throw contest, and more Shining Stars return to play

For more information, call Jason at 512-352-8535 or 512-269-9735 or email taylorpress3on3@gmail.com

SCAVENGER HUNT FEATURES TAYLOR MADE CARTOONS

A

JASON HENNINGTON publisher@taylorpress.net

local artist has drawn a way to get people to Taylor.

Coincidentally, the project made Taylor a little more looney in the process.

Artist Dennis Levitin began a project last year of painting cartoon characters on surfaces inside local businesses.

The purpose of the cartoons is to draw more people to Taylor while supporting local businesses.

“It’s a cartoon scavenger hunt project to promote awareness about Tex Avery, who was actually born here in Taylor,” Levitin said.

The first set of characters for the project were Chilly Willy and Screwy Squirrel, also known as Screwball Squirrel, at the Taylor Press.

Levitin was hired to produce some mural art in the Taylor Press conference room. The art had to be Taylor-related, and Levitin used one of his loves and strengths - cartoon art.

“I’m a cartoon head,” he laughed. “People would have mixtapes with music. I have mixtape VHS tapes with cartoons.”

After living in Taylor for 10 years, Levitin learned that Tex Avery was from Taylor, so he chose to honor the cartoonist with his characters.

Currently, the project features more than 25 Tex Avery characters including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Tweety Bird.

Lesser known characters such as Red Hot Riding Hood, Blackie the Cat and Short the king-size canary are also included. All of the characters are drawn free-handed by Levitin.

“When I brought up the idea, they thought it was fun,” he said. “I tried to get as many small businesses involved.”

The idea was to bring more activity and awareness to local business. With a scavenger hunt of cartoon characters created by a Taylor-born artist, the project has a local appeal.

“This is good. It’s Taylor. It’s cartoons. It’s family-friendly and fun, and it’s going to help the businesses,” Levitin said. “I have been blessed by the Taylor community, and in general we have a lot of people who work together.”

While he has painted several characters around town, Levitin plans to continue the project and add new characters in new locations.

“We want to have it updated with the times,” he said. “That was not the plan, but the project is not about excluding anyone.”

Levitin said the project happened organically with the first characters at the Taylor Press. Once people saw the result, they wanted to be involved. Now the project is underway and visitors can visit shops in Taylor for a “looney” experience.

CARTOON SCAVENGER HUNT CHECKLIST

Press, 211 W. Third St. • Taylor Concept Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, 310 N. Main • Black Sparrow, 113 W. Second St. • RE/MAX Associates 906 Main St. • The Loose Screw CraftGroup, Beer House Garden, 410 W. Seventh St. • The Hangout Pinball Lounge, 410 W.andSeventh Room 102 • Mesmerize Me Art Studio, 410 W. Seventh St.St.Room • Forty-Six and Two Apothecary and Boutique, 313 Main101St. • Vintique Mall, 2121 N. Main St. • The Light House Botutique, 105 W. Fifth St. • Curio Mrvosa, 302 N. Main St. • Old Taylor High, 410 Seventh St. Room 106 • 74 Man Store, 407 N. Main St. • Chemistry Lab, 410 W. Seventh St. Room 120 • Texas Beer Company, 201 N. Main St. • Taylor Garden Center, 1902 W. Second St. • Trade Up, 123 W. Fourth St. • Red Cap Cigar Lounge, 215 N. Main St. • McCrory Timmerman Building, 201 N. Main St. • Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 31

TAYLOR INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT DISTRICT BOUNDARIES Taylor ISD consists of 89 square miles within Williamson County. The district’s boundaries predominantly extend north to the San Gabriel River, south to Brushy Creek, east to Farm Market 619 and west to FM 101 TAYLOR ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES Place 1 —Shorty Mitchell, Vice President shortym@floydsglass.com Place 2 — Anita Volek, Assistant Secretary andvolek@sbcglobal.net Place 3 — Cheryl Carter, Secretary stix5mom@yahoo.co Place 4 — Marco R. Ortiz, President mortiz721@aol.com Place 5 — Joseph Meller, Member jwmeller@gmail.com At Large — Jim Buzan, Member jim.buzan@taylorisd.org At Large — Marilyn Tennill, Member mtennill76574@gmail.com 32 • FYI 2022

TISD ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Superintendent: Dr. Devin Padavil 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor dpadavil@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-365-1391 Fax: 512-365-3800 Assistant Superintendent of Organizational Management: Tiffany Whitsel

Twhitsel@taylorisd.org Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning: Clarissa Rodriguez crodriguez@taylorisd.org Chief Financial Officer: Lorine David ldavid@taylorisd.org Executive Director of Elementary Schools & Special Programs: Jennifer Patschke jhp@taylorisd.org Director of English Learner Services: Sandra Martinez smartinez@taylorisd.org Communications and Community Liaison: Tim Crow tcrow@taylorisd.org 512-365-1391 x1058 TISD TRANSPORTATION OFFICE Coordinator: Carl Caldwell Address: 3101 N Main, Bldg. B; Taylor, Texas 76574 Phone: 512-365-5584 Website: www.taylorisd.org

TISD PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT Address: 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor Phone: 512-365-1391 Fax: 512-365-3800

fgibson@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-352-1016 Fax: 512-309-4461 Enrollment: 662

TISD CHILD NUTRITION DEPARTMENT Sodexo Food Service Director: Lindsey Gage Assistant Director: Jamie Hackett Secretary: Angelica Cazalas Phone: 512-365-1391

MAIN STREET INTERMEDIATE (Fourth and fifth grades) 3101 N. Main Suite 105, Taylor Principal: Kerri Pierce kpierce@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-365-1999 Fax: 512-309-4471 Enrollment: 427

COMMUNITY SERVICES/ ELECTIONS/COMMUNICATIONS Technology Integration and Communication Coordinator: Misty Houston mhouston@taylorisd.org 3101 N. Main, Suite 104, Taylor Phone: 512-365-1391 ext. 1058 Fax: 512-365-3800

TAYLOR MIDDLE SCHOOL (Sixth through eighth grades) Address: 304 Carlos Parker Blvd., Taylor Principal: Chelsey Ellison cellison@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-365-2815 Fax: 512-365-8589 Enrollment: 710

GENERAL CAMPUS INFORMATION Website: www.taylorisd.org

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL (Ninth through 12th grades) Address: 355 FM 973; Taylor Principal: Matthew Wamble mwamble@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-365-6326 Fax: 512-365-1351 Enrollment: 1,011

TH JOHNSON ELEMENTARY Early childhood, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten 3100 Duck Lane, Taylor Principal: Andy Basche abasche@taylorisd.org Phone: 352-2275 Fax: 512- 365-7112 Enrollment: 373 Pre-Kindergarten: students must be 4 years old by Sept. 1, to be eligible.

• 4-year-old students who live within the Taylor ISD boundaries may attend Pre-K for no charge if the family qualifies for the free or reduced lunch program or if the student qualifies as a limited English speaker.

• The district also offers a tuition-based Pre-K program for 4-yearold students who do not qualify for the free program at a cost of $400 per month on a space-available basis.

• Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by Sept. 1 and must live within the Taylor ISD boundaries.

Note: Pre-K for 3 year-olds is also now offered. Must qualify, tuition option not available for PK3. Note: there are other ways to qualify for free PK, although Free/reduced lunch and limited English are how most qualify.

NAOMI PASEMANN ELEMENTARY (First through third grades) 2809 North Dr., Taylor Principal: Felicia Gibson

Taylor ISD Athletics 512-352-6326 Athletic Director: Brandon Houston bhouston@taylorisd.org Assistant Athletic Director: Shelli Cobb shellih@taylorisd.org Athletic Director Secretary: Jonica Taylor jonicataylor@taylorisd.org Taylor ISD Band/Color Guard Band Director: David Motl dmotl@taylorisd.org Color Guard: Marcie Svatek msvatek@taylorisd.org Academic Decathlon Director: Vickie Rowe vrowe@taylorisd.org (512) 352-6326 x6031 LEGACY EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL (Ninth through 12th grades) Website: lechs.taylorisd.org 516 N. Main, Taylor Administrator: Erika Elizondo eelizondo@taylorisd.org Phone: 512-352-9596 Fax: 512-309-4477

Enrollment: 185 Legacy Early College High School offers select students the opportunity to earn a college Associate’s Degree while also earning a high school diploma.

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL 520 Washburn St., Taylor Phone: 512-352-2313 or 512-365-1431 Website: www.stmarystaylor.org Principal/Head of School: Heidi Altman St. Mary’s Catholic School serves PK3 - 12th grades in the Classical tradition. Educating for wisdom and virtue, centered on Christ, our teaching stimulates wonder and awe in children, so they become lifelong critical thinkers and learners.

Our High School program is part of the renowned international Chesterton Schools Network and is the first in Texas and the southern United States.

The curriculum is one of the most cohesive, content-rich educations in the world. St. Mary’s is in the Diocese of Austin and is dually accredited by AdvancEd/Cognia and TCCBED (a part of Texas Education Agency).

St. Mary’s Catholic School was founded in 1896 by five Dominican Sisters and has been educating children of all faiths from Taylor and the surrounding area for over 124 years. St. Mary’s supports parents in their role as the primary educators of their children. Our rigorous classical training draws out of students their natural desire for wisdom and virtue.

By fostering a love for truth, beauty, and goodness, we seek to form disciples of Jesus Christ, set free to realize their full potential by living joyfully in accordance with the truth revealed by God through nature and the Catholic Church.

ST. PAUL CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER St. Paul Lutheran Child Development Center is a daycare facility serving the greater Taylor area. Meeting the needs of the community and their children, St. Paul Lutheran CDC has created a safe place for parents to leave their children while they work.

The CDC offers Pre-K 3 and 4 using Bible curriculum.

The CDC is located at 401 West Seventh Street in Taylor.

Phone: 512-352-2773 stpaulcdc@austin.rr.com Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 33

TAYLOR MADE TEXAS. PICTURE PERFECT. TAYLOR MADE FOR YOU. Taylor is the quintessential small Texas town. We’ve got stunning VXQVHWV åHOGV RI FRWWRQ WKH EHVW EDUEHFXH LQ WKH ZRUOG DQG SOHQW\ RI KRUVHEDFN ULGLQJ FRZER\V Ô EXW ZHÖUH DOVR VR PXFK PRUH 7D\ORU LV DW WKH VWDUW RI VRPHWKLQJ ELJ Ô ZKLFK VKRXOGQÖW FRPH DV D VXUSULVH ULJKW" 7KDWÖV MXVW KRZ ZH RSHUDWH KHUH LQ 7H[DV :H KDYH WKH GLYHUVH FXOWXUH WKH QDWXUDO EHDXW\ DQG WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ HYHU\ FLW\ VHHNV

When you visit us, you’re not just visiting another small Texas town. <RXÖUH YLVLWLQJ 7D\ORU 0DGH 7H[DV

www.taylormadetexas.com 34 • FYI 2022

SERVING TAYLOR

be on your way lickety-split

Taylor ISD is the

District of Choice!

TH JOHNSON ELEMENTERY SCHOOL • • • • • •

Age-appropriate learning environment that includes playbased learning, outdoor learning and exploratory science labs.

Social/emotional development (socials skills taught daily) Growing Leaders with the 7 Habits (weekly leadership skills lessons) Highly qualified teachers and aides in all classes Pre-K for all 4 year olds (free for those who qualify, paid for others) Literacy based

NAOMI PASEMANN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL •

Naomi Pasemann Elementary is a Leader in Me school.

From learning to be proactive, to putting first things first, Pasemann students are learning responsibility and strategies for success every day.

MAIN STREET INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL • • • •

Reading Counts focuses on developing reading comprehension skills.

Duck Math builds math fluency.

STEMSCOPES provides students with hands on science.

Empowering Writers builds strong writing skills through authentic writing opportunities.

TAYLOR MIDDLE SCHOOL • • • • •

Strong fine arts programs that includes band, choir, theater arts, dance and art.

Academic UIL: placed 3rd in our region out of 11 schools Offer challenging honors courses on all four core content areas of math, ELA, science and social studies Offer courses for high school and CTE credit: Algebra, Spanish, College and Career Readiness Partnership with E3 alliance and Raise Up Texas to increase student learning and staff effectiveness

LEGACY EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL • • • • •

• •

Opportunity to Graduate from High School with an Associates of Arts Degree from Temple College.

Engineering I and Engineering II with the opportunity to gain credit from the University of Texas for a beginning Engineer class AP Physics with the opportunity to gain credit from the University of Texas for Physics Spanish taught through Angelo State University for 8 hours of college credit.

Clubs and Student Organizations include: Student Council, National Honor Society, Interact Club (Rotary Club for High School), BLADE Club, Chess Club, Coding Club, Art Club.

Service Learning for Seniors to provide students a way to give back to the community.

New Student Orientation: a three-day event in the summer to help new students blend into the Legacy Community.

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL Career pathway courses offered: • Agriculture, Food & Natural Resource • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics • Business Management & Administration • Hospitality & Tourism • Health Science • Manufacturing • Arts, A/V Technology & Communications • Culinary students operate Top Flight, a licensed restaurant in Taylor High School, giving them the full restaurant experience as part of their training.

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) program for students to earn certification as a medical assistant upon graduation.

• Each high school student is issued a MacBook Air. • Academic Decathlon consistently ranks in the state’s top three. Currently ranked 6th in the nation, medium school division.

• Color Guard currently ranked #3 in nation, 2017 national champs.

Community Involvement: MUNCH (mentor at lunch), Ambassadors, TEE Foundation Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 35

AROUND THE

Wat�cool� WANT TO HEAR THE LATEST ON LOCAL SPORTS AND MORE?

101 Park Street

Hutto, Texas 78634

512-846-2266 fax: 512-846-2245

Patient Treatment Hours of Operation Monday, Wednesday & Friday • 8AM - 5:30PM Administrative Hours: Tuesday & Thursday • 9AM - 2PM

Join us for the "MOST MUST WEEKLY SPORTS WRAP UP SHOW IN ALL THE LAND" Around the Watercooler Thursdays at 11 a.m.on the Taylor Press Facebook page.

TOMMY TALLEY ROOFING A name that stands for Quality and Integrity Serving Taylor and Surrounding Communities for Over Four Decades

512-352-2838 Office 512-844-8883 Cell 36 • FYI 2022

Locally Owned & Operated

Taylor EDC &

TAYLOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PO Box 975 / 112 West 2nd St., Suite 203 Taylor, Texas 76574 p. (512) 352-4321 f. (512) 352-3252 www.tayloredc.org President/CEO: Mark Thomas Program Manager: Regina Carlson

The Taylor Economic Development Corporation serves as the catalyst to build wealth for Taylor, Texas. This is achieved via an active Business Retention and Expansion program, an aggressive Industry Recruitment program and an involved Entrepreneurial Development program partnership with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Temple College. Success is measured by job creation and retention, industry expansion and relocation, tax base increase and small business startup in Taylor.

The TEDC also provides site-selection assistance to commercial ventures seeking to relocate to Taylor, as well as information and applications for federal, state and local financial incentives. It also monitors and TEDC Board members Chairman Kelly Cmerek First Vice Chair Betty Day Second Vice Chairman Joe Burgess Secretary Sam Dowdy Sr. Robert Garcia

CHAMBER

GREATER TAYLOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR CENTER 1519 N. Main St., Taylor Email: info@taylorchamber.org Phone: (512) 352-6364 www.taylorchamber.org

The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center represents a thriving, progressive community nestled in Williamson County, one of the fastest growing area in the country. The Chamber offers members networking opportunities, entrepreneurship promotion, and programs designed to educate business owners in ways to

make their businesses stronger. Taylor has small town values united with big time ideas.

The Chamber gives monthly awards for customer service and businesses that contribute in extraordinary ways to the Chamber and the community.

On the Chamber’s calendar each year are Trades Days in February, Business Expo in September, a Gala social in June and a community awards banquet in January.

In addition to that, the Chamber is actively involved in Taylor Works, a workforce development project.

PRESIDENT & CEO Tia Rae Stone

Mark Nibbelink McCrory Timmerman Building

MEMBERSHIP AND OPS DIRECTOR

Lisa Whisenant Eagle Bank

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jason Hennington Taylor Press, Publisher

Rachel Westerman

Cheryl Webster Board Chair Noren Thermal Solutions, CEO Ebby Green Incoming chair Taylor Housing Authority Diana Phillips Secretary Sales Director of Holiday Inn Express and Suites

Zona Sweeney Holiday Inn Express & Suites, General Manager Devin Padavil Taylor ISD Superintendent Scott Morales Scott Morales Catering Brad Robbins Essex Mortgage

Ryan Stiba Treasurer Citizens National Bank

Connie Perry Artisan’s Cabinetry and Woodworks

Julie Downs Julie Downs, Realtor, Owner

Sam Dowdy S&D Plumbing, Owner Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 37

CLINIC:512-846-6960 FAX: 512-846-6961 307 Farley St, Hutto, TX 78634 www.TexPTS.com

Schmidt Insurance Agency

A hometown tradition honesty & trust SchmidtofInsurance Agency

A hometown tradition Hutto of honesty & trust Located in Historic Downtown Located in Historic Downtown Hutto 115-A East Street | PO Box 30 | Hutto, TX 78634 115-A East Street | PO Box 30 | Hutto, TX 78634 P: 512-759-3277 | F: 512-759-2830 P: 512-759-3277 | F: 512-759-2830 drschmidt@earthlink.netdrschmidt@earthlink.net www.schmidtinsuagency.com www.schmidtinsuagency.com

Dennis & Rosemary Schmidt

Proudly partnering with

Taylor Family Health Clinic

Now Offering Family Practice Services!

Our medical professionals offer Family Practice Services for acute and preventative health services including annual check-ups, sick visits, non-urgent medical care, physicals, screenings, immunizations We look forward to meeting the healthcare needs of your family with convenient scheduling

38 • FYI 2022

Church Directory CROSSROADS ASSEMBLY OF GOD First Assembly of God 500 Carlos G. Parker Blvd. NW Taylor 512-352-6133 www.crossroadstaylor.org POTTER’S HOUSE CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF TAYLOR 220 E. Fourth St., Unit C Taylor 956-202-5206 BAPTIST FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH OF JONAH Meets at Jonah Community Center Hwy 29 & CR 126 THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 300 N. Robinson St. Taylor 512-365-9000 FIRST BAPTIST TAYLOR 2500 Mallard Taylor 512-352-3144 www.fbctaylor.org FIRST BAPTIST 301 E. Mesquite P.O. Box 25 Granger 512-859-1389 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 100 Sydney Blvd.

Thorndale 512-898-2529 FIRST SHILOH BAPTIST 100 County Rd. 481 Thrall 512-856-0011 RDShiloh0011@gmail.com GOD’S WAY CHRISTIAN BAPTIST CHURCH 1101 West Second St. Taylor 512-352-3832 www.gwcbctw.org THE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH – HUTTO 6655 Hwy 79 Hutto 512-255-8972 MEMORIAL BAPTIST CHURCH 340 W. Lake Dr. Taylor 512-352-5988 www.memorialbc.net MT. CALVARY MISSIONARY BAPTIST 602 Symes St. Taylor 512-352-3838 MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 213 E. Taylor St. Thrall 512-898-9562

MT. ZION BAPTIST 104 E. Church St. Thorndale ZION CHAPEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST 512 E. MLK Jr. Taylor 512-365-5618 SAN GABRIEL BAPTIST 263 CR 421A Thorndale CATHOLIC OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE 111 W. Rio Grande St. Taylor 512-365-2380 ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 408 Washburn St. Taylor 512-365-2175 www.smtaylor.org ST. PATRICK’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 2500 Limmer Loop Hutto 512-759-3712 www.stpatrickhutto.org CHURCH OF CHRIST HIGHWAY 95 CHURCH OF CHRIST 2702 N. Main St. Taylor 512-352-6444

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 515 Simon St. Taylor 512-352-1333 WHOLE TRUTH C.O.G.I.C. 800 E. Rio Grande Taylor 512-508-8714 512-352-3372 THE SOUTH LOOP CHURCH OF CHRIST 303 Carlos Parker Blvd. SE 512-496-0545 studywithgarren@gmail.com DISCIPLES OF CHRIST NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 206 Farley St./113 East St. (Office) Hutto 512-759-2665 www.newhopehutto.org NORTHVIEW CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2900 N. Main St Taylor 512-365-5611 OASIS CHRISTIAN CHURCH 1616 Granger Rd. Taylor 512-595-5118 oasischurchtaylor@gmail.com UNITED CHRISTIAN CHURCH 603 Talbot St. Taylor 512-352-2753

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 39

EPISCOPAL ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL 614 Davis Taylor 512-352-2330 ministry@stjamestaylor.org JEHOVAH’S WITNESS JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES 2703 Medical Pkwy Taylor 512-352-5954 LUTHERAN CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 6740 FM 112, Noack HUTTO LUTHERAN 402 Church St. Hutto 512-759-2064 IMMANUEL LUTHERAN 411 CR 401 Taylor 512-365-9494 PRINCE OF PEACE LUTHERAN 3101 CR 417 Taylor 512-365-6155 ST. JOHN LUTHERAN 409 S. Main St. Thrall 512-898-2136 ST. PAUL LUTHERAN 401 W. Seventh St. Taylor 512-352-2327 www.stpaultaylor.com TRINITY LUTHERAN 3505 N. Main Taylor 512-352-6958 www.trinity-taylor.org

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH 101 N. Third St. Thorndale 512-898-2711 www.stpauthorndale.com ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH 314 N. Sixth St. Thorndale 512-898-5152 METHODIST ALLEN CHAPEL AME 516 Elliot St. Taylor 512-352-3945 FIRST UNITED METHODIST TAYLOR 907 W. Lake Dr. Taylor 512-352-2593 www.fumctaylor.org HUTTO DISCOVERY UNITED METHODIST 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd Hutto 512-846-1707 www.huttodiscovery.org PLEASANT RETREAT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 852 CR 458 Thorndale 512-791-6376 TENTH STREET UNITED METHODIST 410 W. Tenth St. Taylor 512-352-2244 THRALL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 204 Shelton Street Thrall 512-352-2244 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF

LATTERDAY SAINTS 2800 N. Drive Taylor 512-658-2340 PENTECOSTAL ANOINTED TEMPLE APF 704 E. Third St. Taylor REVELATION OF CHRIST CHURCH 608 Howard St. Taylor 512-818-0993

Taylor 512-352-7531 COWBOY CHURCH IN THRALL 230 E. Hwy 79 512-535-5755 CROSSPOINTE COMMUNITY CHURCH 4110 CR 366 Taylor 512-365-0857 LA HERMOSA CHURCH OF HUTTO 123 Front St. Hutto 512-762-7853

JERUSALEM PENTECOSTAL 908 E. Walnut St. Taylor 512-352-6934

NEW LIFE OF TAYLOR 5300 N. Main St. Taylor www.newlifeoftaylor.com

NEW LIFE OF TAYLOR UNITED PENTECOSTAL 5300 N. Main St. Taylor 512-259-7271 IGLESIA PENTECOSTES SINAI 1301 W. Second St. Taylor 512-309-4880 MOMENTS FOR MEDITATION Coupland 512-856-2754 UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST ST. PETER’S CHURCH OF COUPLAND UCC 108 Wathen St. Coupland 512-856-2433 UNITY OF THE BRETHREN BRETHREN CHURCH 710 Sloan St. Taylor 512-352-6423

RESTORATION TEMPLE OF DELIVERANCE 701 N. Davis St. Taylor 512-736-6242 CHURCH OF CHRIST TOWN WEST 1616 Old Granger Road Taylor 512-352-2423 TRUE VINE CHURCH 204 Washburn 512-569-1138 YEGUA CREEK EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH 1200 CR 466 Elgin 512-281-2500

CHRIST FELLOWSHIP 1517 McLain St.

LIVING HOPE CHURCH OF HUTTO 212 East Austin Ave. Hutto 512-762-7853

LUTHERAN CHURCH

The Church on the Hill

“Pilgrimage to Bethlehem” Live Nativity Second Weekend of December

Sunday School................... 9:15am Worship ............................ 10:30am www.ilctaylor.org | 411 County Rd. 401 | 512-365-9494 40 • FYI 2022

City of Hutto A

s the City of Hutto is increasingly known for balancing historic charm with strategic progress, Hutto leaders are committed to ensuring that the City’s infrastructure and economy are developed responsibly. Planned capital improvements in Hutto include three projects along FM 1660, which together will reduce traffic delays, improve safety both for drivers and pedestrians, and improve the ability to implement a railroad quiet zone. In addition, a comprehensive water supply study is in progress, construction of additional water pumping stations, and waterline and well capacity improvements. The City of Hutto is also excited to begin developing a long-range Comprehensive Plan in close collaboration with residents and other community stakeholders. This new study will look at everything from parks and public facilities to roadways, accessibility, land use (zoning), population trends, and economic resiliency. The resulting plan will literally become the City’s roadmap to the future—guiding Hutto development patterns for decades to come.

HUTTO CITY HALL 500 W. Live Oak St. Phone: 512-759-4033 www.HuttoTx.gov Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday To start receiving HEY HUTTO!, the City’s free e-newsletter, please visit the Communications & Public Information page at www.HuttoTx.gov to sign up.

The City is governed by an elected mayor and 6-member City Council:

Mayor: Mike Snyder Phone: 512-759-4034 Email: Mike.Snyder@HuttoTx.gov Place 1 – Robin Sutton Robin.Sutton@huttotx.gov Place 2 – Dan Thornton Mayor Pro Tem Dan.Thornton@HuttoTX.gov Place 3 – Randal Clark Randal.Clark@huttotx.gov Place 4 – Peter Gordon Peter.Gordon@HuttoTX.gov

Place 5 – Krystal Kinsey Krystal.Kensey@HuttoTX.gov Place 6 – Amberley Kolar Amberley.Kolar@huttotx.gov Interim City Manager: Isaac Turner Phone: 512-759-4030 Email: Isaac.Turner@huttotx.gov Assistant City Manager: Matt Wojnowski Phone: 512-759-4406 Email: Matt.Wojnowski@hutttx.gov Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 41

COMMUNICATIONS Public Information Officer: Allison Strupeck 500 W. Live Oak St. Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4059 Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday Friday ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Director of Economic Development: Bob Farley 500 W. Live Oak, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4012 Email: Bob.Farley@huttotx.gov POLICE DEPARTMENT Police Chief: Jeffery Yarbrough 401 W. Front St. Non-Emergency Phone: 512-7595978 HUTTO PARKS & RECREATION Parks Superintendent: Jeffrey White Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4000 Jeffrey.White@huttotx.gov HUTTO PUBLIC LIBRARY Librarian: Colleen Tierney colleen.tierney@huttotx.gov Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4008 Mon: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 to 5 p.m.

Tues: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 3 to 6 p.m.

Wed: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 to 5 p.m.

Thurs: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 to 5 p.m.

Fri: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 to 5 p.m.

Sat and Sun: We apologize but we remain temporarily closed on the weekends.

Curb-side pick-up: Tues: 5 to 6 p.m.

Thurs: 10 to 11 a.m.

BUSINESS AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Director of Development Services: Ashley Lumpkin Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5961 Fax: 512-759-5962 FINANCE DEPARTMENT Fax: 512-759-5973 Email: Finance@HuttoTx.gov The Finance Department plans and directs the City’s financial activities.

MUNICIPAL COURT Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 42 • FYI 2022

Phone: 512-759-1011 Fax: 512-846-2653 Email: MunicipalCourt@HuttoTx.gov The Municipal Court Division is responsible for the judicial processing of Class C misdemeanors that originate from traffic citations, citizen complaints, code violations, and misdemeanor arrests occurring within Hutto city limits.

PUBLIC WORKS Senior Administrative Assistant: Stella Gonzales stella.gonzales@huttotx.gov Address: 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4016 The Hutto Public Works Department manages the water supply and distribution system, wastewater system, streets, drainage, and sidewalks of the City.

HUTTO AREA CHAMBER www.huttochamber.com Address: 122 East St., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 749-4400 executivedirector@hutttochamber.com Growing a small local chamber formed in 1986 to one with nearly 300 members from the four corners and beyond, the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce membership represents businesses through the area.

The Chamber hosts a number of monthly meetings, including Networking after Hours, Chamber luncheons, ribbon cuttings, special events, and annual festivals such as Olde Tyme Days (held in October) and the Hutto Crawfish Festival (held in April).

STAFF: President: Tim Jordan Leslie Hurley Sonia Herrera BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Chair: Drew Hargrove with Fingerprint Ideas Chair Elect: Piet Van Waarde with Shoreline Church Secretary: Brenda Renfrew Great Home Realty Treasurer: Troy Farr with Texas Pawn & Jewelry Member: Reb Burgert with HEB Plus Hutto Member: Donna Jones with Hutto Resource Center Member: Will Thigpen with Thigs Diamond Kutz Member: Mary Stone with Hutto Living Member: Joe Gonzales with VeraBank Member: Anne Cano with Realty Texas Member: Aaron Saucedo with Barnsco Member: Connie Gooding, Hutto Community Representative AMBASSADORS Ambassador Chair: Sean GarciaTurstTexas Bank Ambassadors: Tamra Williams - JT Williams Masonry Sara Odom - Hutto Living Heather Babineaux - North Creek Apartments Terel Williams - Cube Smart Kolbi Andersen- YMCA Jason and Deanna Ramm- Centex Powder Coating Robert Hilton- Farmers Insurance Victor Henry- Commercial Market Exchange Chris and Jena Dubon – Team Dubon-On Air Realty Dena Ebeling – Honest AC and Plumbing Misty Faigle – Hutto Flower Market

HUTTO ISD

www.hipponation.org Address: 200 College Street, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (512) 759-3771 Fax: (512) 759-4797

BOARD OF TRUSTEES President: Bllie Logiudice – billie.logiudice@huttoisd.net Vice-President: Terrence Owens – terrence.owens@ huttoisd.net Secretary: Morgan Hubbard – morgan.hubbard@huttoisd.net Member: Felix Chavez – felix. chavez@huttoisd.net Member: Shara Turner – shara.turner@huttoisd.net Member: Amy English – amy. english@huttoisd.net Member: James Matlock – james.matlock@huttoisd.net ADMINISTRATION Superintendent: Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas Phone: 512-759-3771 ext.

1002 Email: Celina.

EstradaThomas@huttoisd.net Assistant Superintendents: • Dr. Robert Sormani, Associate Superintendent of Instruction and Innovation Phone: 512-759-3771 ext.

1004 Email: Robert.Sormani@ huttoisd.net • Rhonda McWilliams, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Interim Phone: 512-759-3771 ext.

1016 Email: Rhonda.mcwilliams@ huttoids.net • Henry Gideon, Assistant Superintendent of Operations Phone: 512-759-3771 ext.

1016 Email: Henry.Gideon@ huttoisd.net Chief Financial Officer Glenn Graham Phone: 512-759-3771 ext.

1006 Email: Glenn.Graham@ huttoisd.net Executive Director of Communications and Community Relations Noelle Newton Phone: 737-327-5241 Email: noelle.newton@ huttoisd.net

SNAPSHOT: Location: Seven miles east of IH 35 on Highway 79.

Serving: Hutto (78634 and 78660) and portions of Georgetown (78626), Round Rock (78664, 78665) and Taylor (76574).

Community: Rapidly growing community of more than 30,000 with a rich tradition of school support.

7 Elementary Campuses PK-5 grade 2 Middle School Campuses 6-8 grade 1 High School Campus 10-12 grade 1 Ninth Grade Center 9th grade 1 Alternative Campus *All info as of Snapshot (Oct. 2020) ENROLLMENT: Total number of students: 8,421 African American: 13.18% Hispanic: 46.05% Caucasian: 33.01% Asian: 1.47% Economically Disadvantaged: 42.25% English Language Learners: 12.58% Bilingual Education: 7.49% Gifted and Talented: 4.67% Special Education: 14.70% Military-Connected: 3.88% CLASS SIZE INFORMATION: Elementary Pre-Kindergarten: 212 (2.52% of total enrollment) Kindergarten: 587 (6.97%) Grade 1: 651 (7.73%) Grade 2: 598 (7.10%) Grade 3: 585 (6.95%) Grade 4: 621 (7.37%) Grade 5: 642 (7.62%) Secondary Grade 6: 659 (7.83%) Grade 7: 746 (8.86%) Grade 8: 644 (7.65%) Grade 9: 665 (7.90%) Grade 10: 677 (8.04%) Grade 11: 569 (6.76%) Grade 12: 496 (5.89%) Male: 4,308 (51.16%) Female: 4,113 (48.84%) *All info as of Snapshot (October 2020)

BENJAMIN DOC KERLEY ELEMENTARY Principal: Kyle Ruggirello Address: 800 Hayburn Ln. Phone: 512-759-5410 Fax: 512-759-5411 www.hipponation.org/kes COTTONWOOD CREEK ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Linda Pachicano Address: 3160 Limmer Loop, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5430 Fax: 512-759-5431 Enrollment: 615 cce.hipponation.org HUTTO ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Gaye Rosser Address: 100 Mager Lane, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-2094 Fax: 512-759-4778 Enrollment: 458 hes.hipponation.org HOWARD NORMAN ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Carrie Abrams Address: 1101 Llano River Trail, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5480 Enrollment: 660 hnes.hipponation.org NADINE JOHNSON ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Principal: Bridgit Reichel Address: 480 Carl Stern Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5400 Fax: 512-759-5401 Enrollment: 424 njes.hipponation.org RAY ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K to 5) Assistant Principal: Alexis Campbell Address: 225 Swindoll Lane, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5450 Fax: 512-759-5451 Enrollment: 675 res.hipponation.org VETERANS HILL ELEMENTARY (Grades Pre-K-5) Principal: Eric Johnson Address: 555 Limmer Loop,

Round Rock, TX 78665 Phone: 512-759-3030 Fax: 512-759-3980 Enrollment: 725 vhes.hipponation.org HUTTO MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 6-8) Principal: Jason McAuliffe Address: 1005 Exchange Blvd., Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4541 Fax: 512-759-4753 Enrollment: 802 hms.hipponation.org FARLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 6-8) Principal: Ray Burns Address: 303 CR 137, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-2050 Fax: 512-759-2033 Enrollment: 892 fms.hipponation.org HUTTO HIGH SCHOOL (Grades 10-12) Principal: Jonathan Smith Address: Chris Kelly Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-4700 Fax: 512-759-4757 Enrollment: 1,985 HUTTO NINTH GRADE CENTER (Grade 9) Principal: LaKesha Whitfield Address: 301 Destiny Lane, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-3771 (district number; NGC number not yet established) www.hipponation.org/NGC RIVER HORSE ACADEMY Principal: Drew McConnaughhay Address: 309 E Live Oak, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-3020 www.hipponation.org/rha EAST WILLIAMSON COUNTY HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER www.ewchec.net Address: 1600 Innovation Blvd, Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: 512-759-5900 Fax: 512-759-5616 Email: ewchec-hutto@ templejc.edu

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 43

City of Thrall HISTORY Founded in 1876 as a railroad town, Thrall was first called Stiles Switch after the Stiles family, which owned a ranch at the site. A combination post office/ general store opened in Thrall in 1901, and it was that same year that the town was renamed. Held in great esteem by the Stiles family, Methodist minister and historian Homer S. Thrall provided the inspiration for the community’s new name.

The town was incorporated in 1915, the same year an oil boom increased the population from 25 to 3,000. By 1920, the oil boom had leveled off and the population of the town had fallen to 272.

Thrall steadily increased in population for several years, leveling off in 1952 with 584 people. In 2000, the population was 710, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Once again, Thrall’s numbers are increasing. In 2010, about 839 residents called Thrall home, according to the 2010 Census. This time, the impetus is not oil or wealth but quality of life.

44 • FYI 2022

More and more residents are seeking solace in small, rural Central Texas towns in an effort to get away from the hustle and bustle of cities with large populations.

CITY OF THRALL • City hall: 104 N. Main St., Thrall • 512-898-5306 • Thrall has a mayor/commission form of government.

• Mayor: Troy Marx • City Secretary: Melissa Perry • Commission members: Nicole Walla and J. “Scooter” Dubec UTILITIES Water, sewage and trash collection are handled through the city. For information, contact Thrall City Hall, 104 S. Main St., (512) 898-5306.

EMERGENCY SERVICES Police Department Duties include law enforcement, crime prevention and community policing in the city limits of Thrall. The department also does a variety of community service

initiatives, including property registration.

Chief Whitney Whitworth leads the department.

The police department phone number is (512) 898-5407 or for assistance, call (512) 898-5306. Located at 104 Main St. Fire Department The all-volunteer Thrall Fire Department covers 75 square miles.

The jurisdiction ranges from Granger Dam to the county line in the north to Lee County below Beaukiss and Shiloh.

Duties are firefighting, helping at vehicle wrecks and medical assists to Williamson County EMS. Chief Mark Moellenberg leads the department and Randy Carroll is assistant chief.

Community programs include Fire Prevention Month in October, educating children with the smoke house during Thrall Harvest Festival and the Christmas Parade.

To contact the department, call 512898-4272 or visit their website www. thrallvfd.org.

THRALL ISD

201 S. Bounds St., Thrall (512) 898-0062 Fax: (512) 898-5349 www.thrallisd.com

BOARD OF EDUCATION President: Bryan Holubec Vice-President: Wesley Grisham Secretary: Rodrigo Reyes Member: Sonny Chandler Member: Stephanie Ochoa Member: Wesley West Member: Open Seat Superintendent: Tommy Hooker Email: thooker@thrallisd.org District boundaries: Boundaries are the San Gabriel River on the west and CR 619 to the south.

Transfer policies: Students who live outside of Thrall ISD may attend Thrall schools. There is no transfer fee, but the transfer must be approved by the superintendent.

District-wide programs: Special education, English as a second language, gifted and talented, the migrant student program and more.

CAMPUSES The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Excellence Indicator System performance reports.

INFORMATION • Total enrollment 777

• Ethnic distribution: 64.99% Caucasian, 2.06% African American, 29.99% Hispanic • Average class size: 16 students • Staff: 106 • Professional staff: 68.5 (teachers, support staff, administrators) • Aides, Auxiliary staff: 28.1 • Average graduating class: 55 to 60 students • Taxable value of property in the district: $343,321,410 • Local tax revenue: $4,072.375 • State revenue: $6,004,456 THRALL ELEMENTARY (Pre-k through 4) Principal: Sherri Maruska Address: 201 S. Bounds St., Thrall Phone: 512-898-5293 Website: www.thrallisd.com Enrollment: 268 THRALL MIDDLE SCHOOL (Fifth through eighth grades) Principal: Kimberly Luton Address: 201 S. Bounds St., Thrall, TX 76578 Phone: (512) 898-5328 Enrollment: 213 Website: www.thrallisd.com THRALL HIGH SCHOOL (Ninth through 12th grade) Principal: Nicole Tindol Address: 601 S. Bounds St., Thrall, TX 76578 Phone: 512-898-5193 Website: www.thrallisd.com Enrollment: 216

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 45

City of Coupland HISTORY

Located on SH 95 between Elgin and Taylor, Coupland traces its origins to 1887, when the town was established, and lots were sold as the Bastrop and Taylor Railway was under construction. Coupland was named for Major Theodore van Buren Coupland, who settled in the area at that time.

The post office opened in 1889, with John Goetz as postmaster. By 1900, the town was a prosperous meeting place for the Swedish, German and Swiss farmers who had settled in the surrounding area.

Today, Coupland is home to the Old Coupland Inn and Dance Hall, a post office, gas station and several small businesses. The population of the community was 1,290 at the 2010 census.

CITY OF COUPLAND

Mayor: Jack Piper Mayor Pro-Tem: Barbra Piper City Secretary: Laverne Rohlack Aldermen: John Roulston-Bates, Susan Garry, Karen Marosko and Megan Cargill Fire Chief: Jared Cummings 46 • FYI 2022

COUPLAND CIVIC ORGANIZATION The CCO meets the last Monday of every month, except during the summer months of June, July and August, at St. Peter’s Church of Coupland. In addition to monthly meetings, the CCO hosts block parties, clean-up days and similar events for members of the community.

Another active group in the Coupland area that works with CCO is the Blackland Prairie Concerned Citizens Association, a rural neighborhood association organized in 2000 to guide the change from farming communities to suburban rural living.

Board of Directors President: Susan Schmidt Treasurer: Mike Schneider Asst. Treasurer: Becky Sutton Judy Downing Jonathan Jones Barbara Piper Ruby Wabbel Susan Garry A focal point of the community is St. Peter’s Church of Coupland, 108 Wathen.

The CCO meets at the church, which also has dinners frequently throughout the year to keep the community closely connected.

Martin Garrison is pastor.

EMERGENCY SERVICES The Williamson County Sheriff’s Department, based in Georgetown but with deputies in the area, provides law enforcement in the area as the community has no police department.

The Coupland Volunteer Fire Department is a crew of volunteer firefighters, many of whom are paid firefighters in other cities, who offer their services to help the community. The department, which has its building at 410 FM 1466 east of town, and in the near future, the department hopes to have a new station to house all of its vehicles.

Coupland firemen host a chili supper every year to raise funds and is constantly accepting donations to keep up its work.

The department is dispatched by Taylor’s fire department, and emergency medical services are provided by Williamson County EMS. The fire department is also dispatched in all EMS cases to provide additional manpower if needed.

Precinct 4 Constable Paul Leal, and his staff serve warrants to most of Eastern Williamson County, including Coupland.

Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace Judy Hackenberg handles court cases.

COUPLAND ISD Coupland ISD has a Prekindergarten through eighth grade campus and is home to the Coupland Cowboys. After eighth grade graduation, students go to Taylor, Thrall or Elgin high schools.

Though the school does not participate in UIL athletics, games are organized with other small schools throughout the region. In grades 6-8, offerings include flag football for boys, volleyball for girls, basketball and track.

The enrollment and performance information that follows is taken from the Texas Education Agency’s Academic Performance reports, the most recent information available at the time of this publication.

COUPLAND SCHOOL (Grades Pre-K-8) Superintendent/Principal: Tammy Brinkman Address: 620 S. Commerce St., Coupland, TX 78615 Phone: 512-856-2424 Fax: 512-856-2222 Mascot: Cowboys Athletic Director: Kyle Rinderknecht Website: www.couplandisd.org Enrollment: students 263 Elementary, Pre-K-5: 165 Middle school, 6-8: 65 Professional staff: 14 Teachers: 13 Professional support: 0.0 Central administration: 5 Educational aides: 2 Avg. teacher experience: 15.0 years Taxable value of property in the district: $107,592,438 Local tax revenue: $1,241,617 State, Federal revenue: $1149,215 Demographics: Hispanic: 36% Caucasian: 54% Economically disadvantaged: 51%

SCHOOL BOARD President: Crystal Ward Vice President: Michael Roepke Secretary: Terry Wallin Member: Kandice Samuelson Member: David Young Member: Misty Garwood Member: Phil Viktora Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 47

City of Granger HISTORY

This spring, the Texas House of Representatives honored the Granger ISD with a house resolution honoring the Lions for 127 years as a public school district – part of a year-long celebration of community history.

Granger ISD was founded in 1887 as the Granger Common School District.

More than 150 high schools students, about 25 faculty and staff, as well as school board members and other residents – all dressed in bright purple – filled the House Gallery for the occasion. Among other community members in attendance was Mary Labaj, a 1936 graduate of Granger School.

The celebrations throughout the 201213 school year included special events at sports events through out the school year and culminated with the annual alumni homecoming in May. This year, the 125th anniversary homecoming coincided with the 35th annual Lakefest, another community event featuring food booths and arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, a barbecue-cook-off, a parade, a car, truck and motorcycle show, musical performances, horseshoe tournament, a live auction and a Wild West reenactment. The event is named for Granger Lake, formed by a dam on the San Gabriel River and opened to the 48 • FYI 2022

public in 1981.

The community takes pride in its heritage dating to 1882 when the Houston and San Antonio branches of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas railroad intersected at the site that later became the town.

The town was first named Pollack and later Granger after the Grange association or for John R. Granger, a Civil War veteran.

Granger was an important cotton shipping point. The town’s first newspaper, the Granger Banner, appeared sometime before November 1887. A post office was established in April 1884, and banks, churches and schools followed.

In 1890, Granger had three churches, a college, a hotel and five gins. The town was incorporated in 1891. By 1900, the population had risen to 841, and it doubled in the next 10 years. By 1910, a combined cotton compress and cottonseed oil mill, an electric light plant, an ice factory and a waterworks were built.

Mark Jones opened the town’s first bank in 1894. In 1912, Granger became the only town in Texas with a population of less than 5,000 that had paved streets.

The Storrs Opera House, built by A.W. Storrs in 1905, hosted traveling shows and even featured the Chicago Opera Company.

Immigrants from Czechoslovakia and

Moravia settled in the area and by the early 20th century, Czech culture had become strong and influential in the community. A Czech Protestant church was first organized in Granger in 1880.

A Brethren congregation was established in 1892. A Brethren teacher-training summer school, called Hus Memorial School, was established in Granger in 1914. It was later moved to Temple.

CITY OF GRANGER

CITY HALL •119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530 •Phone: (512) 859-2755 •Fax: (512) 859-2871 •Website: www.grangertx.us •Granger has a mayor/alderman form of government.

Mayor is Monica Stojanik and Linda Vrabel serves as mayor pro-tem. Serving as aldermen are Deborah Carter Todd, David Hajda, Rosie Sweeting and Mark Matoska.

City hall is where billing and city administration is housed.

Christy Cavness Bradshaw is the city administrator, Jeanine Kelm is the city clerk, and Beverly Currie is in charge of accounts payable.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT •Phone: Contact city hall at 512-859-2755 •Department Director: Steve Puspejovsky •Department employees: Kurt Kaderka, Clayton Green, Wayne Michalik COURTS •Municipal court is presided over by Judge Scott Matthew.

•Court is held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at city hall in Granger. Call (512) 859-2755.

EMERGENCY SERVICES • Police Department Police Chief: Justin Powell 119 E. Davilla St., Granger, TX 76530 (512) 859-2644 The department is staffed by Sgt. Thomas Thomas, Officer Vicki Donnelly, Officer Jason Susan, Officer Trey Jeffers, Detective Randal Glasgow and Sgt. Howard Cruse.

The Granger Police Department performs community policing and crime prevention within Granger city limits.

Community programs include Operation ID, where people can engrave their valuables with her driver’s license, and the department is currently trying to start a Neighborhood Watch program.

• Fire Department Fire chief: James Chervenka Fire marshal: Bobby Belcher 107 S. Granger St., Granger, TX 76530 (512) 859-2755 The Granger Volunteer Fire Department performs firefighting, fire protection, first responder duties and vehicle accident response in Granger and the surrounding rural area.

The department covers an area that reaches half way to Weir, north to FM 972, east to San Gabriel and south to FM 1331 and SH 29.

GRANGER ISD

BOARD OF EDUCATION President: Tommy Filla Vice President: Daryl Stefek Secretary: Sandra Carpenter Roman Ramirez Kelli Hutka Peter Reese Jeanette Welles

Superintendent: Jeni Neatherlin jneatherlin@granger.txed.net SCHOOL INFORMATION 300 N. Colorado, P. O. Box 578 Granger, TX 76530 512-859-2613 512-859-2446 www.grangerisd.net Granger Independent School District is a public school district established in 1887. The district serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students and is a “Recognized” academic district by the Texas Education Agency.

Granger High School is classified as 2-A by the University Interscholastic League.

District boundaries: The district lies totally within Williamson County, north of the San Gabriel River. The eastern boundary is the eastern edge of the county.

GRANGER SCHOOL (Grades pre-k through 12) Principal-Secondary: Shane Wagner (7-1-21) Principal-Elementary: Jennifer Cundieff 300 N. Colorado, Granger, TX 76530 512-859-2173 Mascot: Lion Enrollment: Total students: 447

Your Guide to Eastern Williamson County • 49

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