HPL Civic Engagement 2021

HPL Civic Engagement- 2021

• A message from the Library Director • Special Events Current & Upcoming • City of Hewitt Boards & Adjustments • A look at Community Engagement • Adult, Kids, & Teen Programming • Community Services a look at Warren Park

HOURS OF OPERATION Mon.- 9:30am-8pm Tues.- 9:30am-8pm Wed. - 9:30am-8pm Thurs. - 9:30am-8pm Fri. - 9:30am-5:30pm Sat. - 9:30am-5:30pm Sun. - CLOSED

@hewittpubliclibrary

A message from the Library Director What Is Civic Engagement? Civic engagement is deliberate, consistent, and purposeful outreach that creates an environment in which people of all ages and from all backgrounds believe they have a voice and a role in decisions and actions that affect their lives.

Civic engagement is among the most enduring cornerstones of democracy representing promise, opportunity, and responsibility all at once. While much of our political discourse is seemingly fractious, citizens everywhere gather daily to find the common ground that helps us meet the challenges of our time. Research and experience tell us that engaged and empowered citizens generate optimism about the future, produce good decisions on meeting tough community challenges and contribute to local economic vitality.

In communities large and small, public libraries provides leadership, information, tools and a place where people can connect to fulfill the roles and responsibilities of active civic engagement. Because of their well-earned stature as a trusted community resource, libraries have an important role to play in shaping and leading discussions along with forging strategies and decisions that advance community goals.

It includes volunteering, voting, participating in civic and social organizations, engaging in public discussions, connecting with community and government decision makers, running for public office, and caring about and working to make a difference in the places people call home.

This publication celebrates the role of libraries in nurturing an active citizenry and advocates that libraries step up even more fully to embrace their natural leadership. No longer a passive repository of books and information or an outpost of culture, quiet, and decorum in a noisy world, the new library is an active and responsive part of the community and an agent for change. I would love to have a conversation with you about how you can become involved and make a difference in our community.

Waynette Ditto Hewitt Library Director 2

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The Hewitt Public Library is happy to announce that now you can now Dial-A-Story any time 24/7 by calling 254-327-2400 .

You can access this fun service with no wifi, internet, or special apps. All you need is a phone!

Dial-a-story offers a wide range of stories, jokes, poetry, and fun facts for all age groups.

Dial 254-327-2400 and follow the directions.

Push # to return to the menu at any time.

Happy listening!

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BOARDS & COMMISSIONS Shaping Hewitt The Hewitt City Council seeks your interest in serving on one of the City’s boards and commissions. Your volunteer participation allows you to voice your opinions and influence the growth and development of the city. Rewards for service are not measured in dollars, but in the satisfaction that you cared enough to give back to your community. Do you want to play a role in shaping the Hewitt for tomorrow?

If you would like to apply to join one of the city’s boards, please complete an application and either email it to the city secretary, fax to (254) 666-6014, or mail to: 200 Patriot Court Hewitt, TX 76643

Board of Adjustments Jim Winton, Chairperson

April 2020 - April 2022

July 1991

Douglas Bergen

April 2019 - April 2021

November 1996

Charles Howard

April 2019 - April 2021

July 2001

R. Don Vardeman

April 2019 - April 2021

October 2008

Brad T. Turner

April 2020 - April 2022

June 2013

Vacancy, Alternate

April 2020 - April 2022

Royce W. Smith

April 2019 - April 2021

February 2020

The Board of Adjustment hears appeals on decisions made by the building official, authorizes variances, and regulates non-conforming uses.

Meetings are held as needed.

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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Planning and Zoning Vacancy

June 2019 - June 2022

Paul D. Lasater

June 2019 - June 2022

November 2019

Walter H. Peterson

June 2019 - June 2022

August 2013

Vacancy

June 2020 - June 2023

Robert E. “Bobby” Drake

June 2020 - June 2023

July 2019

Michael Lee Hix

June 2020 - June 2023

June 2014

Travis Bailey

June 2020 - June 2023

September 2020

The Planning and Zoning Commission presents recommendations to the City Council on proposed changes to the zoning plan and subdividing land. This Commission meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm as needed.

For more information, email the Planning and Community Development Department or call (254) 666-6173.

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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Parks & Beautification Committee The Parks & Beautification Committee presents recommendations to the City Council on beautification of the City, rules, and regulations for the proper conduct of public recreational facilities, and the development, expansion, and operation of City parks. This Committee meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 6 PM as needed. For more information, email Linda Fish the Administration Assistant for the General Services Dept at lfish@cityofhewitt.com or call her at 254-296-5698.

Ann E. Schiltz

Member

Vacancy

December 2021

April 1, 2019

December 2020

Conway Briscoe

Member

December 2020

October 2019

Jerry Snider

Member

December 2020

February 2018

Tom Hernandez

Member

December 2021

October 2018

Casey Lowrey

Member

December 2021

August 2019

Jamie McKinney

Member

December 2020

October 2019

Civil Service Commission The Civil Service Commission is responsible for adopting, maintaining, and enforcing the City of Hewitt Police Officers’ Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations which govern the hiring and promotional process and serves as a disciplinary appeal board for civil service police officers in the Hewitt Police Department.

The commission is comprised of three commissioners appointed by the city manager and confirmed by the Hewitt City Council. The commissioners serve staggered three-year terms.

Sam MacKinnon, Vice- Chairman

December 31, 2022

Sammy L. Thomas, Member

December 31, 2023

Tom Mattern, Chairman

December 31, 2021

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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Library Board The Library Board presents recommendations to the City Council on the development, expansion, and operation of the Library System. This board meets quarterly as needed.

Sally Goldman, President

December 2021

Lydia Dashner, Vice President

December 2022

Jerry Snider

December 2022

Julie Holcomb

December 2022

Ronald G. Smith, Secretary

December 2021

Betty J. Smith

December 2021

Jennifer Hunt

December 2022

The example of a parent goes a long way. My dad always had a book going.

I have followed his example, sometimes having two books going at once.

When in high school, I had the opportunity to work in the school library.

I learned so much about what went into the running of a library. I went on to be Corresponding Secretary for the Texas Teenage Library Assistants which was a wonderful experience.

This love of books and reading led me in 1986 to apply for a position on the HPL Board where I have served several terms as President of the Board. During my time on the Board I have seen several moves of locations, many new programs for our patrons of all ages, and a wonderful growth in patrons during these years. But most of all, I hope that I have shared my love of books with others.

Sally Goldman, President 254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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Volunteering for the Library Board these past few years has been very rewarding for me. Being a member has given me the opportunity to meet new Hewitt residents, to learn about the programs the Library staff manage for young children, teens and senior citizens.

I would also like to compliment Our Visionary Library Director. I am looking forward to meeting with the Board and to support Library Activities in 2021. I urge our Hewitt citizens to take advantage of all the resources that our Library provides. My favorite device at the Library is the Digital Printer. I have also enjoyed working with Friends of the Library in the garden.

Lydia Dashner, Vice President

I have officially lived in Hewitt since 2007, although my parents moved here in 1981. I became interested in the Hewitt City Council meetings in 2018. I wanted to learn how the city operated and conducted city business. I wanted to see who I was voting for and to hear their positions on city matters. I wanted to see my tax dollars at work.

When the library was at its old location, I visited about once a week. When the present library opened, I started coming every day. I used the computer and read magazines and newspapers. It soon became apparent that I along with all of the others were on a first name basis with library staff members. It soon became a family atmosphere.

In between the Hewitt City Council Meetings and the use of the City of Hewitt website, I learned that there several more city boards that conducted city business although on a volunteer basis. In the last quarter of 2019, I became aware of a vacancy on Hewitt Public Library Board. I thought this was an opportunity to serve the city and to payback some of the benefits I’ve received from my library use. I felt that I could do that and offer some my senior citizen perspective. I filled out an application and forwarded it to the City of Hewitt thru Waynette Ditto, Library Director. I was approved to serve on the board by a vote of the Hewitt City Council. This is the start of my second year on the Library board. I was selected to serve as Secretary for the year 2021.

I would encourage others to become active members of city government by volunteering their time to serve on the Library Board or other city boards. You can become involved in your city without having to be on the city council and actually running for office.

Ronald G. Smith, Secretary

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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My husband Bill and I lived in Mart, Texas, for thirty years. He was a pastor, and I taught school until our retirement.

During those years, we found opportunities to work as volunteers in different ways in our church and community.

The blessings to both of us were tremendous and enriched our lives with friendships that are lasting.

Since, 2013, I have been a volunteer at Bell’s Hill Elementary School in Waco. The students and the staff have brought so much joy into my life.

After we retired, we moved to Hewitt, and both of us immediately started using the services of the Hewitt Public Library.

When I was asked last year if I would serve on the library board, I hesitated because I felt inadequate. However, the library has brought me so much pleasure that I agreed to serve in a way that I can. Our library and its staff are great assets to our city.

Betty J. Smith

Our family moved to Hewitt in 2009, and I first visited the library with my two young children in its previous location. The library has always had a fantastic children’s section, and the staff create a warm and welcoming environment.

Over the years we have enjoyed the many activities the library offers, such as maker events, summer reading clubs, art shows, and festivals. The library’s new facility and the services it offers are important resources for our community. I have been impressed with the library’s communication during the pandemic and its desire to serve patrons during a very difficult time.

I am new to the board, having been appointed in December 2020. I graduated from Baylor and have worked for the university for more than a decade as part of Baylor University Press.

Working with libraries is part of my job at Baylor, as my department produces the print books and ebook files that are purchased by university libraries for its students and faculty. I love books and libraries and look forward to being involved with the library and the city of Hewitt in this new role.

Jennifer Hunt

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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Friends of the Hewitt Public Library group is ten years old!

Friends of the Hewitt Public Library, a volunteer group, started to help the library in diverse ways as it and the community grew and developed. Our Friends group allows citizens to support the library’s work and growth through membership, donations for projects, and volunteerism.

Volunteering with the library is so important to me for many reasons. It allows the library to provide more services to the community to give back in a meaningful way. Volunteering with the library bonds the library members with the staff to offer budget savings of services such as projects and programs that would not be available without volunteers. Volunteers also become an addition link for distributing library news and information into the community.

Our volunteers were able to share in the ownership of their community library physically.

The most recent project was the Monarch Butterfly Garden, designed for beauty, as a resting place for butterflies as they migrate through the country, and as an educational site for a variety of learning experiences for patrons of all ages.

We are fortunate to have such a wonderful library in our area, hope you will consider becoming someone who helps it grow and develop to meet the needs of our community by becoming a member of Friends. A patron can become a member anytime throughout the year, and our memberships are renewed annually. Base membership for the year is $10. You may join at the library, or online. More information can be obtained on the Friends link at the library website.

Ann Schiltz, President of the Friends of the Hewitt Public Library

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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My love of libraries is lifelong. As a child, I remember spending Saturdays at the library reading, taking turns with my brother playing Oregon Trail on the computer and taking classes from a local artist. I can even still remember the specific covers of my favorite books.

When my family moved to Waco in 1996, visiting the library on Austin Avenue was one of the first things we did. At the time, I was just excited to see so many different books, but I now realize that my parents saw the library as a hub of the community -- a resource to connect with others, attend family-friendly events, gain skills and yes, still get lost in a good book or two.

While on staff at the Greater Hewitt Chamber a few years ago, I was fortunate to work alongside the team at the Hewitt Public Library to organize and promote a variety of community events. I truly believe this library is one of the best in the state, and it has the awards and recognition to prove it. More importantly, though, it has a dynamic group of people committed to searching out the needs of the community and serving others well.

When the pandemic had shut down so many libraries across the state, Hewitt Public Library’s team got creative and learned new skills to adapt to the situation in order to continue providing educational programs. Their positivity, resourcefulness, and devotion to Central Texans over the past year is inspiring.

Living through uncertain times like a global pandemic is a good reminder that we are stronger together, but it also helps to remember that we have the power of choice. Community engagement looks different to different people, but it comes down to small choices that add up to a big impact. When you choose to check on an elderly neighbor, to donate to food pantries or to volunteer at a local charity or organization, your kindness has ripple effects. We can choose to engage with others, to ask how we can help and to give back where we can. Making these choices is what community engagement is all about.

I am honored to support the library’s mission in my current role as a board member of the Friends of the Hewitt Public Library, a volunteer group that works to fundraise and raise awareness of the library’s needs and resources.

Did you know that Friends group memberships start at just $10 per year? Helping to support a library that does so much for our community is a choice you can make today that will have a positive impact for long after. Please consider joining at FriendsoftheHewittLibrary.com.

Laura Beaty-Burke, Secretary of the Friends of the Hewitt Public Library

254-666-6171 • 200 Patriot Court • www.cityofhewitt.com •citysecretary@cityofhewitt.com

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The Spirit of Midway Program A Midway High School Recognition Program

So many students at Midway High School strive to make the most of their high school experience. They maintain an excellent attendance record, make good grades, and volunteer in their community. But being a part of a large campus like Midway High School, it can sometimes be a challenge for staff to recognize each of these students that invest time and energy in their education and do the right thing day after day.

The Spirit of Midway award was created in 2004 to give these outgoing, hard-working students the recognition they deserve. It also provides an incentive for students to learn more about their community by volunteering for nonprofit agencies in the Waco area. Created as a joint project between the MHS PTA and the MISD Education Foundation, this award has become an important part of Midway High School’s culture.

This award is unique in that students determine whether or not they will receive this award rather than being selected by staff or fellow students. Each applicant must achieve three goals: • Earn at least an 80 overall grade point average at the midterm of the school year, • Be a member of at least two extracurricular activities such as fine arts, athletics or MHS clubs and • Volunteer at least 20 hours for community nonprofit organizations or selected district-related events (Reduced to 10 hours this year due to the pandemic and limited opportunities to serve.

Students are eligible to earn this award each of their four years at Midway High School. Special recognition is given to those students earning the award four years in a row. All students who earn the Spirit of Midway award receive a patch and year bar for their letter jacket and are treated to a recognition breakfast in the spring.

Volunteering at the Hewitt Public Library is a very popular option for students working toward earning this award. “I like to volunteer at the Hewitt Public Library because I’m able to help out the community in a positive way,” said MHS junior Rafia Ashad. “The library offers a lot of opportunities for people, even during COVID, and it’s nice to know that I’m helping out in some way.” Makenzie Parker, another MHS volunteer, agrees and adds, “I also enjoy the staff and welcoming environment when visiting the library to check-out books or work on school projects.”

Students achieving the Spirit of Midway award are encouraged to continue their journey by registering for and working toward the Congressional Award, the United State Congress’ award for young Americans.

You can read more about the Spirit of Midway by visiting the webpage at http://bit.ly/36DTKad.

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First Baptist Woodway is grateful for the

partnership with Hewitt Public Library to serve the community and care for their needs. René Maciel is the Missions and Community Outreach Pastor at First Woodway Baptist Church. His role at First Woodway is to connect church members to places and situations to impact our community with the Good News of Jesus Christ. The Hewitt Public Library happens to be one of those places. The First Woodway Baptist Church has partnered with the HPL on several occasions to provide volunteers, water, snacks, and some help around the Library, like installing a part of their musical garden and touch up paint. The Library is more than just a place to get a book, it is a place to serve and care for others, and we are blessed to partner with them.

The National Charity League and the Waco Chapter. National Charity League originated in 1925 in Los Angeles, when it was called The Charity League, and dedicated itself to supporting the Red Cross.

Eventually, daughters of its members became involved, deciding in 1938 to form a youth group of The Charity League. And so National Charity League became the original mother-daughter charity organized solely for philanthropic, educational, and cultural purposes. It currently has over 270 Chapter in 27 states with over 75,000 members. The Waco Chapter was formed in 2007, and currently supports 24 local philanthropy partners, having contributed 2,745 Philanthropy hours this year so far! All National Charity League members are devoted to volunteerism, leadership development, and nurturing mother-daughter relationships. The National Charity League is comprised of 7th- 12th graders and their mothers from all around the Waco area. For more information please contact Felicia Goodman, VP Membership at membershipwaco@nclonline.org.

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The Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce has promoted prosperity and

growth among area businesses by providing solutions and resources to these organizations since its inception in 1978, and we still do today.

We create networking opportunities for our members and provide them methods to improve the efficiency of their businesses. We also hold community events to connect our members and residents in fun, wholesome environments. Essentially, we try to make Hewitt a better place to live and work for those in our community.

In many ways, the Hewitt Public Library does just the same!

We find ourselves partnering with the library on many initiatives.

We have worked together on countless events such as the Christmas Treelighting, Hero Day, Dog Days, and Running for Readers.

Alissa Cady- Executive Director When the library needs a vendor or is looking for a particular & Kacie Birks- Communications Coordinator service, they know they can rely on us! Likewise, we are privileged to utilize their state-of-the-art facility and business resources. We promote these business resources to our members, like Reference USA. The library provides great educational value to the public through their programs and advanced technology. We have been happy to support these efforts by sponsoring the library’s summer reading programs.

The Chamber recognizes and appreciates the services and benefits that the Hewitt Public Library’s outstanding facility and staff provide our residents, businesses, and youth.

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The Hewitt Public Library & The Friends of the Hewitt Library would like to give a special Thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers that assisted with the Butterfly Garden.

Super Volunteers

Additional volunteers

Judy Allison

Gagan Bhacen

Rachel Corke

Reggie Blake

Lauren Dunaway

Ann Bowman

Charlene Wagstaff

Fred Husak

Wayne Myers

Ted Kostohryz

Norm Milligan

Kathy Lanfrankie

Steve Fortenberry

Mike Miller Kathy O’Neil Jennifer Rimlinger Donald O’Toole 19

Hootie the Owl, Hewitt Public Library Mascot The Hewitt Public Library would like to give a generous Thank You to Kade Perry for being an amazing volunteer as our librarys mascot.

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The Hewitt Public Library is a supportive organization where volunteers can be expected to be treated with respect. With over 200 volunteers in our system, the Hewitt Public Library values and appreciates the time and commitment to our library.

We are pleased to announce that we are ready to welcome back our volunteers in to the library with limitations. While some volunteers can work on certain projects from home, many volunteers have been able to come into the library and assist with programs, special projects, events, and prepping for day-to-day operations.

Many volunteers have come into volunteer with a school or organization, or some may choose to volunteer just for fun. One thing they all have in common is the enjoyment of being able to give back to the community. Our volunteers have learned many skills such as communication, time management, as well as building professional and personal relationships with fellow volunteers.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Hewitt Public Library, please use the contact below or come into the library for a volunteer application.

Email: volunteer@cityofhewitt.com Call: Kayla Pecina at 254-666-2442

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MAKER CLUB for INVENTORS Hands-on at home STREAM based projects including:

Science Technology Reading Engineering Art Math

All materials are provided for creating an experience together.

Programs are offered 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 4:30pm via Zoom.

Sign up on the Library webpage in the calendar, then pick up the materials before the Zoom to enjoy the full experience.

There is no charge for materials. Recommended for kids ages 6-12.

CuriosityCrates are ready for check out!

Explore STREAM with curated Curiosity Crates.

Each Crate has materials for building, creating, and inventing, along with a book and ideas.

Bring out the inventor in your child!

Explore CuriosityCrates in the HPL online catalog.

Reserve your Curiosity Crate in the HPL online catalog.

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One Saturday a month join our Teen Librarian, Caitlin, via Zoom to conduct experiments using common household items. You can either do the experiments with her or watch, enjoy, and learn! Register on our event calendar if you’re interested.

We are seeking adventurers to emark on a quest! Join our Teen Librarian, Caitlin, on Saturdays to partake in the world’s greatest roleplaying game!

Createcharactersandrolldicetodetermine scenariousandoutcomes.

All experience levels welcome!

Register on our event calendar if you’re interested.

Every week our Teen Librarian, Caitlin, posts a booktalk video on social media, talking about different YA books she’s reading. To access the videos, follow Hewitt Public Library on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, or you can subscribe to Hewitt Public Library’s channel on YouTube.

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Do you like to craft? Every month you can register on our event calendar for a craft project. Our Teen Librarian, Caitlin, will prepare the supplies for you to pick up from the Hewitt Library, then you can join her on Zoom to make the craft together!

The Teen Writing Workshop is a way for teens to learn more about creative writing and the writing process.

The workshop is held virtually on select

Saturdays from 2-3 pm. If you like to write or want to start writing, this is an excellent workshop for you!

You can register on the event calendar.

Teens! Do you want to help design teen programs at the library?

Are you looking for leadership opportunities? Do you want your voice to be heard? Then join the Teen Advisory Board! Contact the library at library@cityofhewitt.com for more information.

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Warren Park Warren park is nestled alongside Castleman Creek. The park offers several acres of land that features mature trees, open green space, playgrounds and much more. At the entrance of the park, there is a covered pavilion equipped with a large grill, electrical outlets, and lighting. Playgrounds are visible from the pavilion.

Enjoy the picturesque creek from the many seating options throughout the park. Near the back of the park, there is an open spacious area of land perfect for flying kites, walks, and simply revel in the surrounding nature.

There are four separate picnic tables with grills sprawled within the park for family outings and picnics.

Stop on by to enjoy all that Warren park has to offer!!

• • • • • •

40 ACRES 2 PLAYGROUNDS HORSESHOE PITS 1-12’ X 12’ SMALL PAVILIONS PICNIC TABLES WITH GRILLS NEWLY REMODELD BATHROOMS

254•296•5671 • 103 N. Hewitt Dr. • www.cityofhewitt.com • parks@cityofhewitt.com

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254•296•5671 • 103 N. Hewitt Dr. • www.cityofhewitt.com • parks@cityofhewitt.com

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Ann Schiltz FHPL President

Sally Goldman

Eddie Sincereny FHPL Vice President

Lydia Dashner

Delores Sincereny FHPL Treasurer

President

Vice President Ronald G. Smith Secretary

Laura Beaty FHPL Secretary

Jerry Snider

Beau Hart FHPL Member at Large

Julie Holcomb

Margie Kinney FHPL Member at Large

Betty J. Smith

Sally Goldman FHPL Member at Large

Jennifer Hunt