Round the Rock Magazine Spring 2021

SPRING 2021 FOOD | EVENTS | ATTRACTIONS | SHOPPING

Summer T R A D I T I O N S

The Best of Round Rock

A special publication from WWW.ROUNDTHEROCKTX.COM

Summer Camp Guide

Day Trips & 10 Things to Do

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Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 3

vis

s! it u

50 years of N U F

www.campdoublecreek.com 4 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

IN THIS ISSUE SPRING 2021

Hello!

It’s hard to believe that this is the 4th issue of our Round the Rock magazine!

What started as a dream to create a print publication to highlight all that is great in our community has been a reality for almost a full year!

I started Round the Rock as an online source for activities and events in the Round Rock area in 2013 when my youngest child and I got tired of always driving into Austin to find things to do. Both the website and social media channels took off and we quickly evolved into the source for what was happening in the community and an advocate for supporting local businesses. And now we have a print publication to support this as well.

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Summer Traditions: Enriching the Lives of Round Rock Youth

Who’s ready for summer? We wrote most of this issue while under ice and snow in February, so I know we are!

In this issue, we celebrate 50 years of the local Camp Doublecreek and tell you the generational story that created & sustained the camp. What a treat it was to hear so much history of Round Rock!

Top Photo and Cover Photo by Kelly Coleson Photography

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Welcome Letter

We also found many hometown heroes that have been doing some creative things to sustain us through the past year. And for our furry friends and their owners, we had fun highlighting the local family-owned business, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming.

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The Best of Round Rock 2020

Most recently, our community voted on the 8th annual Best of Round Rock, and we have all the winners for you. You will also find our annual Summer Camp Guide for your children, 10 fun things to do in Round Rock, great ideas for spring (& summer) day trips, and how to build the perfect charcuterie board!

14 Oui, Charcuterie! : Building The

Thank you for picking up this issue. We hope you enjoy the stories and hold onto it, referring to it for future ideas of Round Rock fun. And if you have a minute, tell me what you think about it. I’d really love to hear from you rebecca@roundtherocktx.com

Rebecca Darling

Find Round The Rock Magazine online at www.roundtherocktx.com EDITOR & PUBLISHER Rebecca Darling PHOTOGRAPHY Kelly Colson PUBLICATION & ADVERTISING DESIGN Rachel Viator

10 Community of Support Perfect Charcuterie Board

17 2021 Summer Camp Guide 25 Day Tripping: Spring Travel Guide 29 10 Things to Do this Spring 30 Business Profile: Woof Gang Bakery 31 Pet of the Month

FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION Contact Rebecca at rebecca@roundtherocktx.com

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With over 70,000 votes cast, these are your chosen winners for Best of Round Rock 2020!

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BEST PIZZA

Slapbox Pizzicheria Pinthouse Pizza Pizza Delight

BEST WINGS Pluckers Pizza Delight Wing Stop

BEST ETHNIC (NON-MEXICAN) FOOD Gino’s Italian Restaurant Thai Spoon Zorba’s Greek Restaurant

BEST MEXICAN FOOD La Margarita Casa Garcias Recuerdos

FOOD BEST BREAKFAST

Cafe Java Kerbey Lane Juarez Mexican Restaurant & Bakery

BEST BREAKFAST TACO Juarez Mexican Restaurant & Bakery Rudy’s Country Store & BBQ Torchy’s Tacos

BEST COFFEE

Mi Mundo Coffeehouse & Roastry Summer Moon Coffee Dazzle Coffee & Smoothies

BEST BURGER

Hopdoddy Burger Bar Mighty Fine Hat Creek Burger Company

BEST SANDWICHES & SUBS Hoody’s Sub Shop Thundercloud Subs Jersey Mikes

BEST BBQ

Rudy’s Country Store & BBQ Liberty BBQ The Salt Lick

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BEST BAKERY

Lonestar Bakery (RR Donuts) Paige’s Bakehouse Papi’s Pies

BEST FROZEN TREAT Andy’s Frozen Custard The Yogurt Experience Kawaii Ice

BEST DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT Slapbox Pizzicheria Liberty BBQ Louisiana Longhorn Cafe

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT Jack Allen’s Kitchen Greenhouse Craft Food Salt Traders Coastal Cooking

BEST KID FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Hat Creek Burger Company Chick-fil-A Kerbey Lane

BEST SPOT FOR LUNCH IN ROUND ROCK Greenhouse Craft Food URBAN eat.drink Hoody’s Sub Shop

CHILDREN BEST CHILDREN’S PLAYTIME LOCATION Play for All Abilities Park Rabb Park (Old Settler’s Park) Monster Mini Golf & Laser Tag

BEST CHILDREN’S CLASSES CHASCO Family YMCA The Jungle Academy Cordovan Art School

BEST KID’S PARTY LOCATION Monter Mini Golf & Laser Tag My Party Palace Capitol Gymnastics

BEST BIRTHDAY CAKE Lonestar Bakery (RR Donuts) H-E-B Paige’s Bakehouse

BEST DAYCARE

CHASCO Family YMCA Little Miracles Christian Preschool Texas Spanish Academy

BEST AFTER SCHOOL CARE CHASCO Family YMCA Children’s Lighthouse Round Rock Capitol Gymnastics

BEST DANCE STUDIO The Dance Gallery Greater Austin Dance Academy The Dance Spot

BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO Round Rock Karate Academy Master Yang’s World Class Tae Kwon Do Premier Martial Arts

BEST CHILDREN’S SPORT PROGRAM CHASCO Family YMCA Round Rock Baseball League i9 Sports

BEST SUMMER DAY CAMP Camp Doublecreek YMCA Camp Round Rock Round Rock Parks & Rec

ENTERTAINMENT BEST GYM/FITNESS CENTER Camp Gladiator CHASCO Family YMCA Hotworx

PERFECT DATE IN ROUND ROCK

Downtown Round Rock Dinner/Bar Hopping Dinner & a Movie at Flix Brewhouse Round Rock Express Baseball Game

BEST BAR

The Brass Tap Urban Rooftop Long Branch Saloon

BEST BEER

The Brass Tap Pinthouse Pizza Bluebonnet Beer Company

BEST GLASS OF WINE Wine Sensation Craft & Racked Gino’s Vino Osterio

BEST MARGARITA Chuy’s La Margarita Jack Allen’s Kitchen

BEST HAPPY HOUR Chuy’s Jack Allen’s Kitchen Cover 3

BEST PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS

SHOPPING & SERVICES BEST BOUTIQUE Mays Street Boutique Tammy Kay’s Boutique Haute Boutique

BEST SPECIALTY STORE Round Rock Garden Center The Mercantile on Main Fleet Feet

BEST SPA

Halina European Day Spa & Salon Vibrant Med Spa Beleza Med Spa

BEST HAIR SALON Gypsy Rose Round Rock Barber Shop Breeze Salon

BEST PET SERVICES Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Action Pack Dog Center Dogtopia

BEST VETERINARIAN Round Rock Animal Hospital Forest Creek Animal Hospital Animal Care Clinic

BEST FAMILY PHYSICIANS

Round Rock Animal Brushy Creek Family Physicians Family Medicine Associate Great Oaks Family Practice

BEST PEDIATRICIAN Treehouse Pediatrics Austin Regional Clinic Brushy Creek Family Physicians

BEST OB/GYN

BEST OPTOMETRIST Lifetime Vision Care Round Rock Family Eye Car Advanced Eye Care

BEST DENTIST

Round Rock Dental Group Roup Dental Rose Dental

BEST ORTHODONTIST Wildflower Orthodontics Round Rock Orthodontics Wyoming Springs Orthodontics

BEST WEDDING VENUE Lone Oak Barn Casa Blanca on Brushy Creek The Grove on Brushy Creek

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Kelly Colson Photography Mellybee Photography, LLC Dazzling Light Photography

BEST VEHICLE REPAIR Christian Brothers Hester’s Auto Repair E & T Automotive

BEST CAR WASH The Wash Tub Wash N Roll Mister Car Wash & Express

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Julie Burton – Willow Real Estate Tara Knight – Keller Williams Robert Fischer – Keller Williams

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY Magnolia Realty Keller Williams- Round Rock Group Willow Real Estate

Dell Diamond Pinthouse Pizza Old Settler’s Park

Oakwood Women’s Center Round Rock OBGYN Cornerstone OBGYN

BEST LAW FIRM

BEST “ROUND ROCK” THING TO DO

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

BEST NEW BUSINESS IN 2020

Eat a Round Rock Donut Go to a Round Rock Express Game Hike the Brushy Creek Trail

Woytek Chiropractic at Forest Creek Active Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation Gardner Chiropractic

The Carlson Law Firm Law Office of Lisa Richardson, P.C. Patricia L. Brown & Associates Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Waffle Love Tony C’s Pizza & Beer Garden

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A COMMUNITY OF

SUPPORT

STORY BY Rebecca Darling

It’s hard to believe that it has almost been a full year of dealing with the pandemic, lockdowns, and cancellations.

It has been such an emotional roller coaster of a year and a new way of life is quickly becoming “normal.” But in the midst of all this turmoil, citizens in our community got creative and found ways to make each other smile.

Right from the start, so many people worked hard to make sure our healthcare workers were provided with homemade masks, warm meals, and thank you parades at local hospitals.

We were touched by so many anonymous acts of kindness that we heard of thru social media.

A few unique acts in our city really stood out, and we wanted to tell you a bit more about them here.

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The Flamingo House | John & Kristen Welsh 1021 Hidden Glen Dr John & Kristen Welsh turned their front lawn into a weekly, ever-changing flamingo display that has included a flamingo wedding, a Halloween costume party, and an interactive flamingo maze. When the pandemic hit and their kids were stuck at home from school, they thought a flamingo display could be something to give their neighbors to brighten their day. The first display was just a mass collection of 39 flamingos. The neighbors have been really supportive and everyone looks forward to seeing what the flamingos will do next.

Round Rock Digital Scavenger Hunt Kenny Crooks During times of restriction due to the need for social distance, Kenny Crooks developed a digital scavenger hunt that families could do together from the comfort and safety of their vehicles. After being cooped up for days on end, he began thinking up ideas of how we could get out of our homes, have a little fun and still be safe while doing so. And he came up with a digital scavenger hunt to showcase often overlooked locations of Round Rock and teach everyone interesting history. Those who have completed the hunt said they had a blast, many state that they explored areas they did not even know existed.

To participate in the scavenger hunt, head to https://roundrockhunt.wixsite.com/roundrockhunt

The Thank-You Fence Joe Richmond | Ryans Crossing Neighborhood During the thick of this Covid-19 pandemic, local graphic designer, Joe Richmond, created some “Thank-You” chalk murals on his fence. He created one per week for about 6 weeks. Each one focused on a group of essential workers who were on the front lines or otherwise did not have the luxury of working from home, such as: Nurses & Healthcare workers; Truckers and Supply-line workers; First responders (Fire, Police, EMS); Teachers; Food Staff (Grocery, Food Prep, Delivery); Donors in general (People sewing masks, donating blood, money, food). “As the Covid Pandemic stretched and political unrest grew on and people were starting to realize this was going to have a huge impact on our families all over the world, I wanted to salute those who were really making a sacrifice for their fellow humans.

At times like these, it’s sometimes difficult to know how to help. I thought I could at least use my talent to offer some public recognition and a genuine thank-you to those essential workers.”

Round Rock Explorers Guide Abby Robison Abby Robison needed a project for her Girl Scout Silver Award and wanted to teach others Round Rock history. A fan of National Park Junior Ranger Guides (she’s completed 80!), she decided it would be awesome to make a guide for Round Rock and bring attention to some of our historic Central Texas Buzz Fairies sites. “I absolutely love doing these guides Crystal Edler After receiving a random basket of goodies on her doorstep, local realtor, Crystal Edler, decided to create a group on Facebook to help encourage because they have taught me so much about history, the environment, etc. This more random acts of kindness. “I was having a rough week and that basket made my day! I wanted to do the same thing for others. Due to really made me curious about my own Covid, businesses were shut down, women were at home with their kids trying to homeschool, every tv station was doom and gloom stories, hometown of Round Rock, so I researched and I wanted something lighthearted to spread joy throughout our community.” In May 2020, she created a Facebook group called Central TX and found that we have a lot of interesting Buzz Fairies and invited her closest friends in Austin. It soon went viral in the Central Texas area and jumped from 50 of her friends to 20,000 women! The original idea was to randomly leave a small gift basket with wine or beer on somebody’s doorstep, essentially “buzzing” somebody history.” Abby developed the Round Rock (similar to the idea of Boo-ing around Halloween). But it ended up being much more than that. Women grouped together to buy random gifts Explorers Guide during the pandemic, so she made it Covid- friendly, including for each other, they all came together and bought gifts for a member that was going through cancer treatment, and they have also shared all outside locations. You can currently food/groceries, helped members find jobs, and many other things. “Tears of joy from women who were struggling with quarantine and isolation found ways to make each other laugh and smile again.” Several smaller spinoff groups were created and a Kids Group was created as find it in the Round Rock Visitor Center or well! Parents got their kids and teens involved and they started leaving gift baskets for other kids/teens for birthdays or just for random acts of download a pdf copy and print it yourself at https://bit.ly/RRExplorerGuide kindness. It became a small movement in our area of everyone just spreading joy to each other.

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Oui,Charcuterie!

BUILDING THE PERFECT CHARCUTERIE BOARD STORY BY Rebecca Darling

T

he hottest trend in food right now seems to be a charcuterie board.

But before you learn to pronounce it (“shar-ku-tuh-ree”), you need to know what it is.

Charcuterie boards are large platters artfully filled with meats, cheeses, fruits and nuts.

And these aren’t the typical crackers and cheese spreads that grandma used to put out for the Holidays. These are works of art.

Not just anyone can build a beautiful char-

cuterie board. I have tried multiple times and it never quite seems to resemble the beautiful ones I find on Pinterest.

boards to homes in her neighborhood, has turned into a full time business.

So I turned to a local expert to learn how to create a simple, yet elegant charcuterie board. Christina Hladik, owner of Charcuterie by Christina.

She was very busy for Valentine’s Day when I tried to find time to meet with her. A custom charcuterie board and a bottle of wine - can you imagine a more romantic meal with your sweetie?

Christina has a love for bringing people together around food and wine. What started as a small endeavor in August, providing

Christina was happy to give us some tips to make our own boards at home. See “Built It Better” below.

BUILD IT BETTER the fabulous five: aged, firm, creamy, 6. Choose a variety of breads and crackers to place around the board. crumbly and blue! You will want to provide at least two ounces of cheese 7. A last but not least, don’t forget the per person.

2. Choose a variety of charcuterie wine! Serve two to three wines to enitems with various textures and flasure each palate has a wine to enjoy. vors. Provide at least two ounces per 4. Add accompaniments such as olives, cornichons, nuts, chutney, fruit A good rule of thumb is to include a person and make sure all items are sparkling, a light bodied-white, and sliced into bite sized and manageable preserves and honey. light to medium bodied red.

1. Use a large platter, plate or wood- pieces.

5. Include fresh and dried fruits as en cutting board as the base. You can palate cleaners and to round out the Visit www.charcuteriebychristina.com also turn your entire table into a giant 3. Cheese is a must-have on any for more information. great charcuterie board. Try to include board and add color. charcuterie board aka grazing table Today, when we say “charcuterie,” we are most often referring to the act of assembling and artfully arranging cured meats with cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and crackers or breads.

Have you ever wanted to charcuterie?

Well, now you can!

by covering it with butcher, parchment or packing paper.

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ANATOMY OF CHARCUTERIE CHARCUTERIE PATE, GENOA SALAMI, PEPPERED SALAMI, PROSCIUTTO, SOPRESSATA, CHORIZO, MORTADELLA

GARNISH

SPREADS

ROSEMARY SPRIGS, BASIL LEAVES, THYME SPRIGS, SAGE LEAVES

HONEY, FRUIT PRESERVES, MUSTARDS, CHUTNEY

CHEESE

AGED CHEDDAR, SMOKED GOUDA, PECORINO, GOAT CHEESE, CAMEMBERT, HAVARTI, GORGONZOLA

FRUIT GRAPES, STRAWBERRIES, FIGS BLUEBERRIES, BLACKBERRIES, APPLES, PLUMS, DRIED APRICOTS, DRIED CRANBERRIES

NUTS

MARACONA ALMONDS, PISTACHIOS, CASHEWS, PEPITAS, PECANS, WALNUTS FOR A KID FRIENDLY CHARCUTERIE BOARD You would assemble it the same as a traditional charcuterie board but use cheeses such as cubed colby jack, cracker cut cheddar squares and mozzarella string cheese. Add meats like deli ham, deli turkey, pepperoni, and salami.

Fresh fruits and veggies to include would be apple slices, orange slices, grapes, carrots, cucumbers and sugar snap peas. Sliced baguette, pretzels, trail mix and crackers are great options for the carb component. Don’t forget to include something sweet. Chocolate candies and gummy candies usually bring big smiles!

MARINATED & PICKLED OLIVES, CORNICHONS, ARTICHOKES, SUNDRIED TOMATOES, CAPERS

CARBS

baguette, focaccia, pita, flax seed crackers, water crackers

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SUMMER 2021

CAMP GUIDE LOCAL CAMPS AND PROGRAMS

ACADEMIC

SPANISH SCHOOLHOUSE 4000 Sunrise Blvd., Bld 2 Round Rock,TX www.spanishschoolhouse.com/roundrock Our Summer Camps give 3-8 year-olds a cultural and language experience without leaving town!

Campers will be immersed in the Spanish language and enjoy rotations through hands-on activities related to each theme.

ESTEAM LEARNING LABS 12 Lake Dr. Round Rock,TX www.esteamlearninglabs.com Camps include: Board Game Creators, Drones, Costume & Make up, Filmmaking, LEGO Animation, LEGO Robotics, Comic Book Creation and so much more!

SINGAPORE MATH CAMP www.singaporemathcamp.com Math and other FUN & Educational camps!

Such as Science, History, Geography, Foreign Languages, Guitar, Photography and more!

ACADEMIC

ARTS & PERFORMANCE

ARTS & PERFORMANCE

MAD SCIENCE OF AUSTIN

ART CAMPS AT CORDOVAN ART SCHOOL

AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL’S SUMMER FILM CAMP

Multiple Locations all over Austin & Round Rock Area, including Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!

(512) 892-1143 www.austin.madscience.org

Round Rock • NW Austin • Cedar Park Georgetown www.cordovanartschool.com

1801 Salia St Austin, TX www.austinfilmfestival.com/sfp2021

Unlock a creative “Art-Venture” for your kids this spring and summer at Cordovan Art School!

Select from over 40 exciting themes like the most popular camp featuring LIVE Animals, Video Game Art, Theater, Pets, Pikachu, Pokemon, Super Heros, Jedi, Space Art, Sea Life, and more! Enjoy working with chalk, pencil, pastel, acrylic, paper mache, technology, clay, watercolor, pottery, and mixed media!

Austin Film Festival is gearing up for our Summer Film Program. We offer hands-on, one-week camp classes and workshops in the arts of screenwriting, filmmaking, editing, and video game writing.

Mad Science camps are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science activities. Your child will become a junior scientist for the week, having the opportunity to experience a variety of hands-on adventures.

MATHNASIUM SUMMER PROGRAMS 110 N. Interstate 35, #350 Round Rock, TX (in Sprouts Shopping Center) (512) 402-3207 www.mathnasium.com/roundrock Two-three hours per week of Mathnasium attendance during the summer is a fantastic way to halt the “summer slide”, enjoy a FUN math experience & get ready to face the school year in full swing!

THE GEORGETOWN PALACE SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS 810 S. Austin Ave. Georgetown, TX www.georgetownpalace.com/camps When school is out, our curtain goes up! 1st-12th graders can take part in two-week or four-week camps in musical theatre, dance, acting, improv and more, all led by performing arts professionals.

All camps culminate in a fully produced show!

IMAGINE ARTS ACADEMY OF AUSTIN Multiple Locations all over Austin & Round Rock Area, including Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door! www.austin.imagineartsacademy.com Imagine Arts Academy programs are designed with exciting, fun art activities. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects based on many different themes, including Wild World, World of Design, and Artist’s Passport!

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SPORTS

BRANDY PERRYMAN SHOOTING CAMP Various Locations Available www.bperrymanshootingcamp.com

DAY CAMPS

YMCA CAMP TWIN LAKES 2014 E. Little Elm Trl. Cedar Park, TX www.camptwinlakes.ymcawc.org Situated on 55 acres of park land featuring 2 lakes, the Wet Willie Water Slide, canoeing, swim beach, Aqua Park, pools, archery range, paintball field, and sports complex. Sleep away camp is also offered.

BPSC is a 4-day shooting intense basketball camp that includes 32 hours of instruction, which is approximately the same amount of time as a month of practice in Middle School or a full season of a youth league. Daily team competitions are the highlight of the week, allowing kids to be a part of a team with no pressure and to have fun.

CAMP DOUBLECREEK

ROUND ROCK EXPRESS BASEBALL CAMPS

800 Double Creek Dr. Round Rock,TX www.campdoublecreek.com

www.expressyouthsports.com/camps Our Round Rock Express Camps offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of the games of baseball and softball.

Camp Doublecreek has been the Round Rock area’s top day camp for children aged 4-14 since 1971.

Campers aged 4-14 thrive as they engage in a variety of activities including: horseback riding, swimming, sports, high and low ropes courses, arts and crafts, innovative outdoor games, rock wall climbing and much more!

FOREST CREEK JUNIOR GOLF CAMP 99 Twin Ridge Pkwy Round Rock, TX www.forestcreek.com Forest Creek will offer several 4 day camps throughout the Summer. These camps build golf skills, social engagement (distantly this year) and core values of the game and life.

AUSTIN YACHT CLUB’S SUMMER SAILING CAMP 5906 Beacon Dr. Austin, TX www.austinyachtclub.net A unique summer sailing experience for kids ages 8-16. Through a combination of classroom learning, land activities, and water drills, our sailors gain the fundamental skills to become life-long sailors!

TECHNOLOGY

CODEWIZARDSHQ

Online - Taught Live by a Teacher www.codewizardshq.com/summer Learn to program from the experts this summer! CodeWizardsHQ has 5+ years of online programming education experience. Students learn Python, Scratch, HTML/CSS, JavaScript & more. Certifications are awarded upon course completion.

FUTURE SET TECH CAMP 3315 El Salido Pkwy Cedar Park, TX www.futuresetcamp.com Learn a new programming language.

Develop a video game. Build a website. Produce a video project. Through exciting projects in computer programming and video game development, students learn forward-thinking technology and problem-solving skills.

Programs for Kids Ages 5-12 We combine daily art projects with real-world problem-solving activities for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Parties, Classes, Camps, and More!

Virtual & Socially Distanced Options

Register your child today! www.imagineartsacademy.com 512-892-1143

CAMP ADVENTURE 14 Chisholm Trl. Round Rock, TX www.covenantcommunityschools.org

We Also Offer Virtual Birthday Parties and After-School Programs MMART0033 © XYZ LICENSING INC. 2019 - All rights reserved. IMAGINE ARTS ACADEMY and its corresponding logo are trademarks owned by XYZ LICENSING INC. and are used under license. © 2019 Crayola. Crayola®, Crayola Oval Logo®, Chevron Design®, Serpentine Design® are trademarks of Crayola used under license.

Camp Adventure activities include Bible Club, Independent Reading, Social Studies, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Crafts, Mathematics, Summer Musical,and Field Trips to Water Parks, Zoos and Museums.

SLEEP AWAY CAMPS

CAMP CHAMPIONS

775 Camp Rd. Marble Falls,TX www.campchampions.com Camp Champions has created a tradition of excellence since 1967. With the facility and staff expected from a top summer camp, Champions focuses on building strong kids. One, two, and three-week sessions available for ages 5-17.

Operated COVID-free in 2020.

CAMP LANTERN CREEK 4045 North FM 1486 Montgomery,TX www.camplanterncreek.com Tucked away on 100 acres in the piney woods of Montgomery, Texas, Camp Lantern Creek is a unique all girls sleep away summer camp that was created so girls can find their voice, try new skills, be cheered on whether they succeed or fail, get dirty, push boundaries, love nature and so much more!

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Camps, Events, Classes & Parties Spark Imaginative Learning for your Child or Group! Our programs keep kids engaged and social!

Sign-Up for a Program Today!

Learn More About Parties Austin.MadScience.org

512-892-1143 TEKS correlated K-6th Grade

Hands-on science discovery

Virtual Options w/Supplies

Socially Distanced Options

Delivered DIY Options

Homeschool & Pod Choices

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 19

THIS PAGE: Camp Doublecreek current owners, (from left) Judy Kirtley, Dan Neal and Jane Neal.

(Photo by Kelly Colson)

OPPOSITE PAGE: Founders and original Camp Doublecreek owners, Carter and Trudy Lester.

(Photo courtesy of Doublecreek Camp)

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Summer

T R A D I T I O N S ENRICHING THE LIVES OF ROUND ROCK YOUTH

STORY BY Rebecca Darling | PHOTOS BY Kelly Colson Did you go to Summer Camp when you were a child?

If you did, I’m sure your memories are filled with arts & crafts, camp songs, swimming until you turned into a prune, and coming home exhausted each day. I have such fond memories of summer camp and the locally-owned Camp Doublecreek has been providing memories for families in the Austin area for over 50 years.

I

had the privilege of sitting down with the owners of Camp Doublecreek recently and they told me their story. Judy Kirtley and Jane Neal are the daughters of the original owners, Carter & Trudy Lester. Together with Neal’s son, Dan, the three continue to run the camp, providing the same experience for campers that their parents did that first summer in 1971.

CONTINUED ON PG 22

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 21

ABOVE: Campers join in the “Sing Song” after lunch with Joe Ray Griffin, the camp Program Coordinator. BELOW: An Honor Camper participates in the tradition of hand and footprint stamping for the Honor Camper Walk. OPPOSITE: (from top) Campers enjoy crafts, horseback riding and ‘Scott’s Rockwall’.

(Photos courtesy of Doublecreek Camp)

In 1970, Lester decided he didn’t want to work for a multinational corporation and travel anymore. So, he bought a 100-acre cotton farm in southwest Round Rock to turn into a day camp. “This was the middle of no-where.” Kirtley says. And she was right. In 1970, Round Rock had less than 3000 people and one stop light.

Jane Neal describes the town of Round Rock back then. “When I graduated in 1972, we were the first class to have over 100 students, barely big enough to be a 2A school.” she remarks, “ And the only places to eat were Stuckeys, Sam Bass Cafe, and the Dairy Cream.”

When they opened, they found that nobody would drive that far to take their kids to a day camp, so they started providing transportation, which soon became a highlight of the day for campers. The bus rides included camp songs that became a big tradition.

“They sing camp songs very loudly!” Jane reminisces. A very popular camp song is “Joe Ray’s White Bus” coined after a cousin of the owners who has driven a bus for the camp every summer for the past 50 years.

The very first summer of camp, they had 36 campers. Uncle Carter& Aunt Trudy (as they became known to the campers) offered horseback riding, swimming, archery, tennis, gymnastics and arts & crafts. Every year, Uncle Carter would add something new to the camp - covered riding arena, playground, basketball court - so that every year kids would have a new activity to enjoy.

22 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

A tradition that Uncle Carter created that still lasts to this day is “Sing Song.” It’s the period after lunch that gives the kids a chance to rest and learn the camp songs.

The counselors did funny skits that were quite memorable. And newest owner and grandson of Uncle Carter, Dan Neal took it up a notch by creating theme weeks. Instead of just singing, they have skits and a costume closet and kids have to get on stage & dance before they are dismissed. Sounds fun, right?

Another tradition that started that first summer was Honor Camper.

Three Honor Campers are chosen each summer. It’s traditionally older campers who are aging out of camp and they are chosen by all the staff and leadership.

Honor Campers have their handprints & footprints placed each summer in the camp’s Honor Camper Walk. Many former Honor Campers come back with their families to see their stones.

Aunt Trudy was also a school teacher and so for at least 20 years, Camp Doublecreek became a school during the off-season. This was to help cover the costs year-round. Today, the camp provides off-season riding to help the horses pay for themselves.

In 1996, Scott & Deana Kirtley, son of Judy & grandson of Uncle Carter, came into ownership. “The biggest thing Scott did for the camp was drag our grandfather into the 21st century kicking & screaming.” Dan tells us.

Scott brought to camp online registration, a rockwall, paintball, and innovative games to camp. “My Daddy was very proud that he never turned on a computer or took credit cards.” laughs Judy.

Scott was an organ recipient. He received a heart & double lung transplant due to a congenital heart defect. Unfortunately, Scott’s health deteriorated in 2007 and Dan moved down from the Dallas area to help run the camp that summer.

“Dan has done a good job of honoring Scott’s contributions to camp.”

Judy tells us. The rockwall is now titled, ‘Scott’s Rockwall’ and there is a flagpole in Scott’s honor today, which flies a Donate Life flag.

Fourteen years later, Dan is established in Round Rock and has an adorable family. His wife, Andrea, is the Marketing Manager of the camp. And their sweet daughters, Brooklyn (8) and Sadie (5) are campers.

Uncle Carter & Aunt Judy had a motto for Camp Doublecreek, “Every child leaving camp feeling better about themselves.” In 2008, the motto was changed a bit to “Every child leaves believing in themselves or knowing that somebody believes in them.” And Camp Doublecreek does this well.

It starts with the counselors, who line up to give high-fives with every bus load each morning. “We emphasize ‘find a friend’ from the very beginning. We want campers to feel comfortable in that very first moment.” Dan explains. The counselors become heroes to the kids, really allowing them to see that someone cares.

This summer, Camp Doublecreek celebrates an amazing accomplishment for a locally-owned business - 50 years of summer camp in Round Rock!

Unfortunately, with the current environment, they can not host Open Houses like they had wanted to. “We want to interact with as many allumi as we can.” Judy says. With over 50,000 kids having gone through camp in the last 50 years, there are so many lives that Camp Doublecreek has impacted.

Camp Doublecreek is encouraging former campers to “Add to the Story”. On their website, you can find pictures of camp through the decades. And they are asking alumni to upload a photo and tell their own story of camp. You can find more information on their website campdoublecreek.com Last summer with Covid, and with several different protocols in place, Camp Doublecreek was still able to provide camp for families.

“We received several emails from family’s last summer that stated they were so happy that camp still happened because it gave their kids a sense of normalcy that they needed.” Andrea states. And they will still continue to provide a safe camp this summer as well.

Camp Doublecreek offers summer-long day camp for kids ages 4-14. It is a new camp every Monday with different themes, so kids can attend all summer long and will have new experiences. They also provide a camper-in-training program for kids who want to be camp counselors one day.

After hearing the story of Camp Doublecreek, I couldn’t help but think that every child deserves the rich experiences this camp offers. Summer camp is such a great experience, especially in today’s digital world. What an accomplishment, to be celebrating 50 years of enriching lives in Round Rock.

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 23

Find more great Round Rock Events and Activites at www.RoundtheRockTX.com

Follow us 109 E. Main St. in Historic Downtown Round Rock Open 10-6 Tuesday-Saturday

24 Round The Rock | Spring 2021



YOUR SPRING TRAVEL GUIDE

DAY TRIPPING IT SEEMS LIKE EVERYONE HAS A LITTLE CABIN FEVER THESE DAYS, AND WE’VE GOT THE PERFECT CURE - SOCIALLY DISTANCED DAY TRIPS!

BY Addie Gross

PHOTO BY LARRY D. MOORE/WIKIMEDIA.ORG

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 25

PHOTO BY TRAVISCOUNTYTX.GOV

For more of a staycation, you can keep it weird by playing tourist out and about in Austin. We had a great time cruising Lady Bird Lake in a pink retro boat from Retro Boat Rentals ATX. You could also take a bike tour and ride e-bikes all around the city! For more unique Austin fun, try visiting the Cathedral of Junk, Waterloo Records, BookPeople, Peter Pan Mini Golf, Uncommon Objects, Lucy in Disguise, or the Museum of the Weird.

Bastrop Bastrop is not that far away, but there’s so much to explore here that you might want to stay for a few days to experience it all!

Take a hike at McKinney Roughs Nature Park, Bastrop State Park, or Buescher State Park. Meet over 500 animals at the Capital of Texas Zoo or Texas Reptile Zoo. Travel back in time and walk among the dinosaurs at the Dinosaur Park in Cedar Creek. Catch an adrenaline rush while ziplining at Zip Lost Pines. Bring your bikes and check out Rocky Hill Ranch for mountain biking. Go fishing at Lake Bastrop. Visit a renaissance festival at Sherwood Forest Faire in McDade. Visit the strawberry festival at Barton Hills Farm.

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PHOTO BY LAKETRAVIS.COM

Canyon Lake True outdoor enthusiasts can come here and rent a boat or hike at Canyon Overlook Park and Guadalupe Park Trail. If you want more of a challenge, you can join a tour of the Canyon Lake Gorge.

Dripping Springs Make reservations for a day at Hamilton Pool Preserve, or just enjoy hiking and swimming at Milton Reimers Ranch Park.

Kid and pet-friendly brewery, Family Business, is nearby and offers outdoor seating in their oak grove for enjoying pizza and beer.

Fredericksburg Best known for its wineries and peaches, Fredericksburg is a lovely place to spend a spring day or two. Make reservations to climb Enchanted Rock (definitely a must-see).

Sauer Beckmann Living History Farm and the National Museum of the Pacific War offer educational historical experiences.

And don’t forget to stop by Wildseed Farms to enjoy spring’s wildflowers and take your bluebonnet pictures.

PHOTO BY TPWD.TEXAS.GOV

Austin

New Braunfels Most people flock here for tubing the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, but there’s much more to see and do in New Braunfels! Work up an appetite hiking the Panther Canyon Nature Trail at Landa Park, then treat yourself at the oldest bakery in Texas, Naegelin’s.

Landa Park also offers walking trails, a miniature train ride, and paddle boat rides. Don’t miss the sweet town of Gruene while you’re out this way. Lunch at the Gristmill and ice cream from their General Store is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Go spelunking at Natural Bridge Caverns or drive through the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch safari.

Cool off at the rope swing or low key tubing at Cypress Bend Park. Try wakeboarding at Texas Ski Ranch.

Spicewood Splash into spring on the rope swing at Krause Springs. Try ziplining at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours (they even have real life treehouses you can stay in)!

PHOTO BY NATURALBRIDGECAVERNS.COM

Wimberley Reservations for swimming at Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well open back up in May. Float around at Cypress Falls, hike up Old Baldy, and shop at Wimberley Market Days.

Waco There is so much to do in Waco! You can visit the Cameron Park Zoo, then treat yourself to refreshments at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Marvel at the mammoths at the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Learn all about Texas Rangers at Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum. Of course no trip to Waco would be complete without a visit to the Magnolia Silos!

Addie Gross is a mom of 3 boys and local blogger at Austin Active Kids. She has a passion for getting out with her boys and exploring all of what Round Rock and Austin have to offer, and finding fun local hikes is her specialty. She loves sharing her adventures on Instagram (@austinactivekids).

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 27

Julie Burton, Realtor 512-810-9473

www.JulieBurtonSellsHomes.com

28 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

10 THINGS TO DO IN ROUND ROCK With the sun peeking out most days in the Spring in Central Texas, it’s time to get outdoors and enjoy a few of these things to do in Springtime in Round Rock!

9. LIKE PUZZLES? Visit new places in Round Rock that you haven’t been to before! Download the Geocaching App and go on a treasure hunt.

You can aso go online and follow the Round Rock Explorer Guide here:http://bit.ly/RRExplorerGuide

10. LEARN SOME HISTORY! Do you know the history of Round Rock or what any of those historic buildings used to be? Pick up a walking guide from the RR Chamber or Conventions & Visitors Bureau and learn for yourself!

PHOTO BY GOV.TEXAS.GOV

1. HIKE OR BIKE A NEW TRAIL

5. COOK LOCALLY!

Go on a new hike on one of many trails you can find in the Round Rock area. Two of our favorites are the Brushy Creek Trail system and the trails at Old Settlers Park.

Pick up some local vegetables at the Round Rock Farmers Market and make something amazing for dinner. It’s open each Saturday from 10AM-2PM in the parking lot near IKEA.

2. SUPPORT LOCAL MARKET DAYS

6. CATCH A MOVIE OUTDOORS!

Support local businesses by shopping at the Round Rock Market Days held on the first Saturday of each month, 9AM - 4PM in the Prete Plaza in Downtown Round Rock. They have local vendors, live music, food & fun each month.

Going to a drive-in movie has never been this fun. The Blue Starlite Mini-Urban Drive-in at Old Settlers Park plays fun classic movies, offers a new dinner feature, and even hosts live concerts.

3. DINE ALFRESCO There are loads of local restaurants in Round Rock that have patios. Pick a new one you haven’t been to before from our list online to try: http://bit.ly/RRPatios

4. ALL-ABOARD! Do you have a train lover in your home?

Make sure to take them to ride the Cedar Rock Railroad at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park. Or maybe it’s time you took a ride on a big train with the Austin Steam Train Association located in Cedar Park!

ROUND ROCK MARKET DAYS Spring 2021 Dates March 6, April 3, May 1

Time 9am-4pm

Location

7. PLAY BALL!

Prete Plaza 221 E Main St

Watch a local little league or soccer game at Old Settlers Park, take in a baseball game with the Round Rock Express, or pick up a new sport (frisbee tennis anyone?)

8. ZIPLINE IN ROUND ROCK! Well, not actually….but you can find a smaller version at a local park here in Round Rock!

It’s why we encourage you to find a new park that you haven’t been to yet and check it out with your family. Take a picnic and make a day of it!

Live Music Pets Welcome Social-Distance Support Local Business

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 29

Woof Gang Bakery is located on University Blvd., in Northeast Round Rock.

THE

WOOF GANG STORY BY Rebecca Darling PHOTOS BY Kelly Colson

I never in a million years thought that I would want to give my 7 year-old German Shepherd, Jake, a blueberry facial, but after learning all about them at Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, I can’t wait to make him an appointment.

Learn more about this adorable locally-owned business in Northeast Round Rock:

W

oof Gang Bakery & Grooming opened in June of 2020 (yes, in the middle of the pandemic!), and very quickly became the place in Round Rock to get adorable gourmet treats & toys for your fur baby. Made locally or in-house with healthy ingredients like bananas, peanut butter, or molasses, Woof Gang’s treats, cookies, and cakes are very popular. They just recently started taking custom cake orders - I know where we are getting Jake’s birthday cake from!

Owner Bindi Irwin has a strong desire to help the community

30 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

with their dogs. A second-grade teacher for several years, Irwin, has a maltipoo, Jackson, whom she quickly became attached to. She learned how to train him, baked for him, and did loads of research on what was healthy for dogs. She wanted to share her love of dogs and people and thus opened her mom & pop ‘dog boutique.’

Irvine jokingly tells us that “Dogs are welcome, people are tolerated.”, but seeing her with the animals, you can see where her heart is. As I was speaking with her, a customer came in to

TOP LEFT: Bindi Irwin , owner of Woof Gang Bakery. TOP RIGHT: Custom cakes are just one of the many things Woof Gang Bakery offers to pamper your pooch. (Photo courtesy of Grayson Martorell) BOTTOM: Pets sniff out their favorite treats from the “Farmers Market”. (Photo courtesy of Woof Gang Bakery)

pick up their dog from grooming and Irwin knelt down to the dog’s level to love on him while speaking with the customers.

Woof Gang carries as many locally produced goods as they can, including gourmet food lines, dog grooming supplies, and toys. The food that they do carry is wholesome - high in protein and fat.

In the middle of the shop is the “Farmer’s Market”. Purposely close to the ground for the true customers (a.k.a. the dogs), to sniff and pick what they want to take home. It is filled with a variety of tastes and textures and smells - different types of bones and chews that will last longer than a treat.

Your dog can choose from chicken feet, elk antlers, honey-coated bones, and soft chews to help for teeth brushing.

One of the biggest issues Woof Gang can help with is aggressive chewing. “I get asked all the time, ‘how can I keep my dog busy?’

‘We probably have the best customers. And that’s the dogs who bring their humans in!”

Irwin shines when she speaks of her customers and how much fun her new career has been for her. I know personally, every time I go in, I walk out with tips and ideas to try at home with Jake.

So I really try to keep a variety of toys that can keep them busy versus tearing apart.”

Irwin tells us. There is a whole wall of toys to choose from - stuffed animals, squeakers, and rope toys.

And in the back, they have a full-service grooming spa for all size dogs. They provide hair cuts, mini grooms, as well as luxurious bath packages. They also offer “pawdicures” and teeth cleaning. And their most popular service is the Blueberry facial. But that’s not all, they offer seasonal facials such as Pomegranate and Fig during the summer and Apple Harvest in the fall.

She credits her team of groomers and retail staff who help make the experience at Woof Gang so great. “Amy and Mickey have been grooming for a VERY long time. They are so talented. In fact, they don’t call their dogs “clients or dogs”.. they call them canvases!”

Irwin and her husband chose to open Woof Gang in Round Rock, because they loved the hometown spirit it offers. “What drew us to Round Rock was that small town feel but it’s really not a small town!” Irwin tells us.

They recently built a home here and had their first child, and they are excited to call Round Rock home.

Irwin invites everyone to visit with the dogs to see how they can help you with your beloved fur baby. “Dogs are family. They are always going to be. And we want to help the community with their loved ones.”

And about that blueberry facial for Jake…... do you think owners can get one too?

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 31

HASH IT UP

We’re @RoundTheRockTX on all things social. If we love your pic, we might ask to reshare it (or print it here!) and make you all kinds of Insta-famous. We’ve got plenty of reasons to blow up your friends’ social feeds. Whether it’s local food, a selfie at an event or some serious scenery, be sure to tag your stuff using our hashtag #RoundtheRock.

@CONSCIOUSDOGTRAINING

@EMILYINGALLS

@JENNLYNN_BURNS

@PAMPERURPETTX

@MR.DARCYTX

@THEROCKSPORTSBAR

Dr. David Hocher Dr. Sarah DeCiero · Dr. Bethanne Eddy

1250 McNeil Rd. Round Rock, TX 78681 · 512-255-6232 · roundrockvet.com

32 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

PET MONTH OF THE

SEIZE THE PLA Y Local area dog parks for a tail-waggin good time!

Round Rock Dog Depot 800 Deerfoot Dr Round Rock, TX, 78664 Brushy Creek Dog Park 200 Co Rd 197 Hutto, TX 78634 Cedar Bark Park 2525 W New Hope Dr Cedar Park, TX 78613 Georgetown Bark Park 151 Holly St. Georgetown, TX 78626 Pflugerville Bark Park 19417 Murchison Ridge Trl Pflugerville, TX 78660

NAME: Barkley AGE: 3 years GENDER: Male BREED: Mixed, large WEIGHT: 53 lbs.

Cool Treat

For a hot dog Nothing is better than a nice cool treat on a hot summer day! Woof Gang Bakery shared

Hi! My name is Barkley! I like running! I like playing! I like talking! I like treats! And now I want to meet you! I’m a good boy because I know my house manners and I am the best boy when I’m on my leash. I’m still kind of young and impressionable, and I want to learn all the rest of the good stuff when I get to my new home. I’m even one of the star pupils in the shelter’s Honor Roll program, and I’m learning more and more great stuff every day! There’s really not much I don’t like - well, except other pets. I like being the one and only! That’s because I’ve got all the love you’ll need. We can cuddle on the couch to binge your favorite show, we can be running pals, and we can be the best of friends! A really neat person decided to help me find my new home by paying my adoption fee! She calls herself an Adoption Angel. I’m a smart AND lucky dog! Send an email to adoption@wilco.org and tell my shelter friends you want meet me Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter 1855 S.E. Inner Loop Georgetown, TX 78626 (512) 943-3322 Shelter Hours: Mon - Fri 12PM-6PM & Sun - Sat 11AM-5PM

their favorite frozen treat recipe that your pooch will love! These healthy and refresh-

DOGGY FROZEN YOGURT TREATS

ing blueberry frozen treats are super simple ents! Store them in the freezer for up to 1-2

1 cup Plain Yogurt 2 Tablespoons Honey 1/2 cup Fresh blueberries

months and let your furry friend enjoy them

Mash blueberries in a bowl. Mix yogurt

outside (frozen treats tend to be messy!).

and honey into the same bowl. Fill ice

You’ll be tempted to nosh on them along

cube trays, candy shaped molds, or

with your pet too and you totally can!

Kongs and freeze overnight

to make and you only need three ingredi-

Furry friends

Choosing a pet is a big decision and each family’s needs are different.

April from the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, shares some tips for when you are considering bringing in that new addition to your family!

1 2

Adoption is the best option. Adopting from a shelter means you save a life for an animal and open the space at the shelter for another animal to be adopted.

Decide what kind of life you want to have with your animal - an active dog who goes on runs or a lap dog to keep you company on the couch - this will allow you to adopt a dog that fits into your needs and lifestyle.

you have young children, make sure to adopt an 3 Ifanimal that is known to get along with children.

4 5

Adopting from a shelter is the most economical way to bring a dog into your life. The Adoption fee is $75 which includes a spay/neuter, age appropriate shots, microchipping, and coupons for dog food & supplies.

If you can’t adopt at this time, consider an “Angel Adoption” which pays the adoption fee for an animal.

Visit http://pets.wilco.org/ for more information on adoping a pet, other pet rescources or how you can donate to help the shelter.

Spring 2021 | Round The Rock 33

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34 Round The Rock | Spring 2021

:SNOITACOL 3

FR E E First Night Stay

• Dog Boarding

*

• Dog Daycare

* With purchase of 3 night stay. Discount subject to

• Dog Training

availability and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Lodging discount applies to first time lodging clients only

• Dog Grooming

and is valid for any lodging accommodation selected.

Code: RTR20 expires 12/31/21

• Pet Swimming Pool

ORIGINAL & FIRST LOCATION established 2008

3 LOCATIONS:

Georgetown 800 Bootys Crossing Rd Georgetown, TX 78628 512-240-6080

Round Rock

4 Lake Drive Round Rock, TX 78665 512-341-0229

Liberty Hill 13150 W. Hwy 29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 512-515-0499

www.ActionPackDogs.com Spring 2021 | Round The Rock

35

36 Round The Rock | Spring 2021