Elgin, Texas

Summer 2014

Western Days PARADE, PAGEANTS, DANCING,

HORSESHOES, SOFTBALL, & LOTS

MORE inElgin Miss Western Days

page 1

Calendar of Eventspage 8

Summer Reading Programpage 13

4th of July Paradepage 15

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Mary WnekShelby BrayEleanor BristollBriana PrunedaAlexis Martini

2013-14Miss Western Days

Queen’s Courtd d

dWESTERN DAYS

Photographedat the Coupland Dancehall, Restaurant and Inn

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Western Days is almost here! This will be the 45th year for this annual summer festival, and plans are being made to make it the best one ever! Western Days Festival is truly a hometown event that offers something for everyone! Below is a brief update and description of a few of the favorite activities. For more detailed information on any of these events, please call the Chamber office at 285-4515 or visit the website at www.elgintxchamber.com.

Miss Western Days Queen/Tiny Tot PageantOne of the longest traditions of West-ern Days is the Miss Western Days Pageant. This event is combined with the Tiny Tot Pageant. It will be held at the Elgin High School cafeteria at 7pm on Tuesday, June 24. Girls in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades will compete for Miss Western Days. In the Tiny Tot Pageant, girls ages 18 months – 5 years will compete in three categories for the title. The queen and her court will lead the parade and preside over the West-ern Days activities during the week.

Western Days Family Night Join us in Memorial Park at 6pm on Thursday, June 26 to kick off the arrival of the carnival. There will be ride specials throughout the evening. The carnival will continue to be open through Saturday, January 28th.

Friday Night Dance The Chamber of Commerce will spon-sor a free tennis court dance on Friday night in Memorial Park from 7pm-11pm. Local favorite band, the Allen Lee Band (formally known as The Crop Dusters), will start the evening’s enter-tainment, followed by another favorite, the Austin English Band. So grab your hat, shine your cowboy boots, and come out and join the fun!

Grand ParadeThe Parade will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 28. The parade starts on 11th Street and proceeds on Main Street through downtown. This parade is one of the largest parades in the Central Texas area.

Arts, Crafts and Food BoothsThere will be over 100 vendors. Some of the best artists and craftsmen in the state will be participating. The food court area will be offering delicious festival food favorites including funnel cakes, kettle corn, sausage wraps, tur-key legs, fajitas and so much more.

Volleyball TournamentThis popular event is always a crowd favorite. The first 8 teams to sign up and pay their entry fee will be eligible to compete for the championship title as well as prizes.

Softball TournamentCompetition will be tough as teams compete for trophies and prizes in this popular event. This is a co-ed tournament that always offers plenty of exciting action for the participants and fans.

Chamber of Commerce NewsBy: Gena Carter, President

dWESTERN DAYS

Horseshoe / Washer Tournament This event is one of the longest running traditions at the festival. It is a popular event that always draws a large crowd of participants and spectators. Sign-up early, the tournament is limited to 20 teams. Winners will receive cash and prizes.

Entertainment In The ParkThis year’s entertainers offer something for everyone. There will be musical entertainment includ-ing: Monty Thomas Family, Pearl, Matizz, Shop Dawgz, Annie & Kate, and Bob & Hannah Ojeda.

Children’s ActivitiesThis year the children’s area will be packed with activities including: pony rides, petting zoo, human ham-ster balls, kiddie train, and bungee jump.

Class ReunionsNumerous Elgin High School class reunions will take place during Western Days. The S.P.J.S.T. Lodge 18 will be open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 for all class reunions.There will be a free dance from 8 p.m. - midnight at Elgin S.P.J.S.T Hall with Pure Country Band.

Although the Greater Elgin Chamber of

Commerce “officially” sponsors Western Days, it

is a joint community effort. It takes many hours

of volunteer labor and financial support to have

a successful Festival. Over 100 businesses and

individuals have committed to be sponsors and

volunteers for this event. Through their generos-

ity, this is sure to be the best Western Days ever!

Make plans now to join us!!

Sponsoring OrganizationsCity of Elgin, Elgin Main Street Board

Elgin Chamber of CommerceElgin Economic Development Corporation

Publication CommitteeGena Carter, Amy Miller, Sonia Browder,

Shirley Bowlin, Peggy Garza

Art/Design DirectorSonia Browder, Enye Creative

Advertising SalesElgin Chamber of Commerce

Contributing WritersGena Carter,

Elgin Chamber of CommerceAmy Miller, City of Elgin

Shirley Bowlin, Jacquelin’s Interiors, Sonia Browder

Contributing PhotographerSonia Browder for Lordni Design

ProofreadersAmy Miller, Peggy Garza,

Shirley Bowlin, Gena Carter, Ryan Faurot

CirculationLinda Bradley

Postmaster

Your comments and ideas are welcome and encouraged. Please email us at info@elgintxchamber.com.

For advertising opportunities, please contact us at (512)285-4515.

For digital copies, go to www.elgintx.com.

Elgin, Texas

JUNE 2006

ART & ARTISAN SHOWCASEELGIN STYLE!

4TH of JULY ACTIVITIES

COMING SOON!WESTERN DAYS

CHALK IT UP!

I SPY...WIN A FREE WESTERN DAYS GIFT PACKAGE!

DETAILS INSIDE!!

100 YEARS of the ELGIN COTTON OIL MILL

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Design and Layout by Sonia Browder for Enye Creative. ñ

(en•ye) Elgin, Texas 78621 • 350-3861

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Western DaysFriday Night Dance June 27

8 p.m.ALLENLEE BAND(formerlythe CropDusters)

10 p.m.AUSTIN

ENGLISHBAND

SSSS

SS

SS SS SWESTERN DAYS

LIVE MUSICS

Yegua Creek FarmsPecan Orchard & Kitchen

Pecans, Breads, Cookies, Flavored Pecans,Gift Baskets, Firewood, Bar-B-Q Chips, Mulch.

www.yeguacreekfarms.com

Gene & Eileen Niswander(817)929-2789 • (512)856-0192

Elgin, Texas

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www.elginfamilypetcenter.com

(512) 285-3375

1399 HWY 290W(next to ACC on 290)

Now accepting

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Veterinary care for: Family Dogs & Cats!

Bring in this ad and receive

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Western DaysEntertainmentSaturday, June 28

11:30 a.m.MONTY THOMAS

12:45 p.m.PEARL

2 p.m.Matizz

3:15 p.m.SHOP DAWGZ

4:15 p.m.ANNIE & KATE

S

12:30 p.m.ELGIN’S OWN N.J.

Power Tumbling Performance

by Tuck N Tumble

S SS SSWESTERN DAYS

LIVE MUSIC SSSS

SS5:00 p.m.BOB & HANNAH OJEDA

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You can take classes at ACC Elgin campus too! Drop by the campus on Hwy 290 at County Line Road and check things out in person or visit http://www.austincc.edu/locations/campuses/elgin-campus

ACC Elgin campus is connecting hundreds of students of all ages to continuing education and technical certifications. Here Betsy Erwin, Campus Manager shares the students’ perspectives on having continuing education opportunities in our own back yard.

“I think that ACC is great. They have helped me get back in school and have made it easy – with all the questions I’ve had as far as my using my post 9/11 GI bill.” Johnathan, returning student

“ ACC is a great experience for people leaving High School or leaving 9-5 jobs to come back to a great institution to better themselves. I will be back.” Amos Hobson

“ACC Elgin is Beautiful Campus, with friendly people and a great atmosphere.” Sherelle Nolan, recent Elgin High School graduate

“I like ACC because of the friendly helpful staff!” Debby, continuing education student

“The staff in the Welcome Center were so nice. They all went out of their way and even stayed late to help me register for classes this summer. This makes me feel welcome and very happy to know that they are doing their best to help the students.” Josef, new student

Henry LealAssessment and Academic Testing Center Supervisor

Yolanda GibsonFinancial Aid Campus Supervisor

Mirosalva ZuñigaSr. Administrative Assistant Student Services

Patricia Sanchez, MA, LPC, LCDCAssistant Professor/Counselor (Bilingual)

Student Services

Dalia Munoz, BBAAdmissions and Records SupervisorAraceli GutierrezWork Study Student

Coffee with the Superintendent

Looking from the outside-in, Elgin ISD may seem to be a low-key environment during the summer months. However, getting ready for the new school year encompasses a range of activities. Here is a glimpse into what we will be doing.

With retirements, res-ignations, promotions, and newly approved positions, district and campus administrators stay busy looking for and recruiting the best candidates to serve our students.

r Hiring for vacant and new positions.

1 As a growing district, we are enrolling new students on a daily and weekly basis.

Registering

Facilitating Summer School

Developing and aligning curricu-lum with new re-sources and state standards.i

Summer Feeding Program

Organizing summer activity programs

Cleaning, Paint-ing, and repairing campus facilities

Dr. Jodi DuronElgin ISD Superintendent

Elgin ISD serves as a summer feeding program site (a program instituted by the Texas Department of Agriculture to ensure students in low-income areas would continue to receive nutritional meals during the summer months.) This summer we will have three sites serving breakfast and lunch: Neidig Elementary, Elgin Middle School, and Elgin High School.

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Providing comprehensive den-

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Dr. Carl Herring &Dr. Scott Herring

New Patients & Children Always Welcome.

F A M I L Y D E N T A L C A R E

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Preparing our back to school convo-cation and staff developmentThis is “Our Wildcat Family Reunion.” It is a time to welcome new members to our family, reconnet with returning members, and prepare our hearts and minds for what lies ahead.

CI

Offering ongoingprofessional developmentMany teachers take train-ing during their summer vacation months. Ex-amples of training areas include: instructional tech-nology, specific academic content areas, curriculum development and design, changing standards and new instructional material adoptions.

{QWe are working with the Boys and Girls Club from

Bastrop to offer an 8-week summer program for $50 for 100 elementary students in Grades 1-5 and we introduced Camp Invention, focusing on real-world challenges that encourages students to solve problems and present their ideas through science themed, engaging hands-on-investigation. This targets 100 elementary students in Grades 1-5.

Promotion and course credit is based on mastery of the curriculum. Sometimes summer school is needed/required to ensure mastery is achieved. Per state requirements, students in the 5th and 8th grades who did not successfully pass their math and/or reading STAAR test will be required to attend summer school. The same is true for any high school student that did not pass an End-of-Course (EOC) exam required for graduation purposes. Other students who may need to attend summer school for accelerated instruction includes students in grades 1-8 who failed 2 or more core courses and high school students that need to recover credits for graduation. For details regarding this year’s summer school program, parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school counselor.

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On Going Events Every Saturday 9am to 1pm River Valley Farmers Market Veterans’ Memorial Park www.rivervalleyfarmersmarket.com

Every Tuesday @ 10:30am-11:30amStory Time & Lap Sit Program Elgin Public Library

Every 2nd Tuesday @ 2:00pm-4:00pm Afternoon Book ClubElgin Public Library

Every Wednesday @ 4:30 pm, Craft DayElgin Public Library

Every 3rd Thursday @ 6:00 pm, Family Movie NightElgin Public Library

Every 1st Saturday from February to NovemberMarket Days For information on booth spaces or to participate in this event, call Aletha Krebs at 512-285-4025Elgin Memorial Park

Thursday, June 12Movies in the ParkMONSTERS UNIVERSITYSponsored by Friends of Elgin Parks8:30pmElgin Memorial Park

Friday, June 13Juneteenth Street DanceDepot Street Downtown8pm - MidnightJuneteenth Festival CommitteeFor more information, contactBettye Lofton at 512-963-2721

Saturday, June 14 Juneteenth Parade & CelebrationVeterans’ Memorial ParkDowntownJuneteenth Festival CommitteeFor more information, contactBettye Lofton at 512-963-2721

Thursday, June 19Movies in the ParkDESPICABLE MESponsored by Friends of Elgin Parks8:30pmElgin Memorial Park

Tuesday, June 24Miss Western Days Queen/Tiny Tot Pageant7 pmElgin High School

ELGIN SUMMER ACTIVITIES JUNE Thursday, June 26

Western DaysFamily Night @ Carnival7-11pm Elgin Memorial Park

Friday, June 27 Western DaysFree Tennis Court Dance8pm - MidnightElgin Memorial Park

Saturday, June 28 Western DaysParade, Festival & Carnival10am-6pmElgin Memorial Park & Downtown

Thursday, July 3CHALK IT UP!Veterans’ Memorial ParkDowntown

Friday, July 4Fourth of July “Push, Pedal and Pull People’s Patriotic Parade” & CelebrationCity Hall & Downtown Elgin

Freedom Fund BanquetFor more information, contact Bettye Lofton at bettyelofton@prodigy.net

AUGUST

JULY

Se Habla Español! Matricula Aceptado.

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McDade Watermelon

Festival

July 11-12

www.mcdadetexas.com

Josh HausladenDirector

www.elginfuneralhome.net

“Service and Compassion from a Family That Genuinely Cares.”

712 N. Avenue CElgin, Texas 78621

512-281-5697

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Year-round MarketDowntown Elgin

@ the Gazebo

www.RiverValleyFarmersMarket.com

Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.Find us on FaceBook

The Very Freshest

Fruits and Veggies

Saturday 9am - 1pm

Josh and Jamie HausladenDirectors

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(First row, l-r)Elizabeth Martinez, Office Assistant; Jeanette Shelby, Owner/Broker; (second row, l-r) Pete Bega, REALTOR®; Kay Silkenson, Office Manager; (third row, l-r) Josh Carrillo Chief Office Assistant; Sandy Smith,

REALTOR®; (fourth row, l-r) Dianna Hooyboer, Receptionist; Kelly Shoulders-Koenning, REALTOR®

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Voted Best Real Estate Company 8 Years Running!Jeanette Shelby, Voted BEST REALTOR®

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(What’s in it for you?

this photo by Sandy Ott

The Elgin LibraryThe Elgin Public Library Summer Reading program includes options for all ages. We asked some of the patrons what they love about the Elgin Library and its programs. “The library’s summer teen reading program is one of the best experiences of learning new things that will also make you want to ask questions and give ideas of how it works or how it helps the world or the community. When I first got in the program we went to places like Corpus Christi to see the (Texas State) Aquarium. Then we went to Sea Lab where they do their projects of investigating and analyzing the ocean water. They also taught us how to analyze the water. At the library we would do research and experiments. By the end we presented them to others. So that’s why I like to encourage (others) to go to the program and learn something new.” Alex Mendoza, participant in the teen program

“I love that the library has a teen program. Especially for my 13 year old I feel that because my daughter is involved she can ben-efit from so many things such as learn about power of teamwork, how to motivate others, how to make better decisions and com-municate effectively. I couldn’t be happier with how Melinda gets these kiddos involved. The whole children’s program is wonderful also.”Angela Ramirez, parent

“We love the new community we live in and a wonderful reason for that is because of the bountiful treasures we have discovered at our local Library. Operating as more than a building but rather a beacon full of knowledge, community and opportunity with events and resources to all. Truly a treasure to all especially this family of bookworms.” Lori Musick, Parent

409 N.

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Skilled Nursing CarePhysical TherapyOccupational TherapySpeech TherapyRespiratory TherapyWound Care

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ELGIN

“Resident Care”We invite you to see the difference for yourself! Give us a call and schedule a tour at your convenience.

REHABILITATION CENTERNURSING AND

PREVENTATIVE CARE • IMPLANTS • COSMETIC

Dr. Randy M. Robertson(512) 281-4260

Apply now for affordable classes at your ACC Elgin campus.

austincc.edu/fallStart Here. Get There.

#1 college for transfer to UT and Texas State

Austin Community CollegeFALL14: TRANSFER/Elgin specificElgin Downtown5.7083x3.1867, CMYKRuns July 2014

2014June 10th through July 31st Lapsit Program (Newborn - 2 years old)Tuesdays @ 10:45

Toddler/Preschoolers Storytime (3-5 years old) Tuesday @10:30

Readers Program (6-11 years old) Wednesday @ 3:00

Young Adult Program (12-18 year olds) Thursdays @ 5:00

Old Fogies (anyone over 18)Dr. Who visits the Old Fogies Tea Saturday August 9th @ 2:00for all that complete their Tic-Tac-Toe Reading Card

Summer Programs for ChildrenClubs:

Lego Club Tuesdays @ 3:00 June 10th to July 29th Art Club (painting, drawing, and crafts)Thursdays @ 1:00 June 12th to July 31st

Elgin Public LibrarySummer Reading Program

Performers:

Kim Lehman the Bee Lady will presentThe Buzz about Bees June 25th @ 3:00 Lucas Miller the Singing ZoologistJuly 23rd @ 3:00

Movies:

Disney Classics Wednesdays @ 12:00June 11th ...................... Bambi June 18th ..................... CinderellaJune 25th .................... Peter PanJuly 9th ....................... Snow WhiteJuly 16th ...................... PinocchioJuly 23rd ..................... BatmanSpecial activities in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Batman will start @ 11:00July 30th .................... Jungle Book 2

ADULT PROGRAMS Afternoon Book ClubSecond Tuesday of the month @ 2:00

Need a Job? Come to Class!Monday sessions from 10:00 to 1:00 June 2nd to July 21stThis project is made possible by a grant from the

Institute of Museum and Library Services to the

Texas State Library and Archives Commission

Dual LanguageMonday 6:00 to 8:00 from June 2nd to December 8thCome join the fun!= Unique learning experience that teaches both English & Spanish= Learn the vocabulary you need for home, school & business= Potlucks & bilingual movies (based on popular books) This program is part of a Literacy Initiative Grant

funded by the Texas Book Festival

Elgin Public Library404 N. Main St. Elgin, TX 78621512-281-5678

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@visitelgintx

Each summer, the City of Elgin hosts “Beach Party.” This year, the fun celebration falls on Saturday, July 19. The Beach Party is a great way to cool off in the hot Texas sun. There is a giant, inflatable water slide, ice cold fresh watermelon, volleyball, and the chance to build your very own sandcastle! Erin Flores, who has attended every Beach Party, shared “the kids thoroughly enjoy them-selves. It’s great to see the sandcastles the kids make – adults too.” Be sure not to miss out on this free event – mark your calendars now!

It’s aBeach PartySaturday, July 19

photos provided by Elgin Courier

10 a.m.

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Do you consider yourself a cowboy?Yes, because I train horses and compete in rodeos. In years past, I’ve worked cattle for other people and run cattle of my own. For several generations, my family has owned cattle and horses. If I’m not one, there are a lot of people who say they are and aren’t.

What kind of work do you do?I train roping horses and bird dogs. I compete in rodeos and ropings during the spring and summer, and I guide quail hunts during the winter in South Texas.

How did you get started?I was raised on a ranch and helped my dad with the cattle work when I was just a kid. I learned to ride at an early age. My dad was a fulltime ranch-er, and I worked with him from the time I was 9-10 years old. At that same time, I started learning how to rope and began to compete. During the drought of the 50’s, there was a screw worm epidemic. We cared for about 150 head of cows near Webberville, and we would leave the house early in the morning and doctor cattle until early afternoon. I con-tinued to compete through high school and qualified to go to the National High School Rodeo Finals in Ogalala, Nebraska. I started breaking and training horses for people to help pay my tuition at the University of Texas. After I graduated from UT, I went to work for the State Comptroller’s Office and stayed there until I retired, but I continued to train horses, run cattle and compete in rodeos on the weekends. Now, that I’ve retired, I’m able to train horses and rodeo all the time.

Do you have any advice for those who want to be cowboys? Start young. Spend as much time on horseback as you can. Always be willing to learn from someone else. I think it’s important to always seek out people who are better at something than you are. And, there will always be someone who is better no matter how good you get to be. You’ll need a good work ethic. You have to be will-ing to work hard at it every day. And, not just at roping and riding. But, also, at being a good caretaker of the animals. They’ll need care 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Is there anything that the public should know about being a cowboy that they might not have gotten from the movies?The main thing is that the life of a real cowboy is not all glamorous. Whether it be a ranching or a rodeoing cowboy, a lot of it is just hard work.

Who’s your favorite cowboy and why?My dad, Morris Sandifer. He was very, very good at both sides of it – the rodeoing and the ranching. But, he was never a boastful man, and he was always willing to help you learn. My dad was lucky enough to be able to rope calves until he was 80 years old.

Do you consider yourself a cowboy?I was raised on a horse working beside my uncle and my dad on a ranch in South Texas between Alice and George West, Anna Rose. I rode horses and did cattle. Both grandpas were well known for working with horses. Dad’s father was Manuel Gonzalez. He ran a ranch in South Texas.

Mom’s father was Ollie Weston, one of the best horsemen in south Texas. Growing up, I thought everybody rode horses and chased cattle. I didn’t know any different.We’d hunt deer and hogs. We lived off the land. It was a family thing. I compete in some cattle cutting and roping competitions, do clin-ics, demonstrations, & seminars.

What can I compare it to? It’s like running a daycare - almost.

What advice do I have to give someone about being a cowboy?It’s not all swimming pools and sunglasses. No short cuts. It’s a lot of hard work. There are hardly any “real” cowboys left.I call an ace an ace and a spade a spade. I learned from the best. Didn’t have time to pol-ish words they just tell it like it is.Tell you the truth sometimes it stings but you learn from it. I’m kind of that way because of it.

Job description: a lot of work. I work for the lady that runs the place and that’s my wife. Met at the world show showing horses. She was working in a booth selling tack helping a friend 14 years ago.

What is a way of life for a cowboy? A way of life is getting up in the morning, no telling when. You work 24/7. It’s a 24-hour job.If a horse gets stuck in barb wire, or gets upside down - stuck in railing, or a 2 a.m. breach cow is being born, you have to be your own vet. You have to tend to the animals. We have to be knowledgeable. We have been given dominion over the animals. It’s biblical.It takes a great team to become successful at training horses and working cattle. A good association with the owners is key. We all work well with the people surrounding us here. I’ve got good help.We’re just working the cattle and the horses. They break them and get them going good. They do a really good job.

Who’s my hero? There are too many to count: If my eyes can see further than others, it’s be-cause I’ve stood on the shoulders of giants.

About Larry: He’s an excellent teacher, says Jerry Abel. The owner of the place Larry leases to do his work. They’ve just finished a

Rex SandiferA SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY

A SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY

With Western Days fast approaching, I thought it would be interesting to step into the life of a cowboy for a brief moment. It is a difficult task wrangling in a full description of the life of a cowboy. With these interviews, I gained much respect for the life they live. Here are some snapshots of 3 local cowboys.

Larry Gonzalezby Sonia Browder

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Do you consider yourself a cowboy? I have never considered myself to be a cowboy, but I’ve done some things that would make most cowboys pack up and go to the house...My Dad said a couple of times that I was a purty good cowboy when I was well mounted and I considered that a high compli-ment coming from him. I do think of myself as a fair horseman....

I am reminded of two remarks that were made in casual conversation by my Dad and Grandpa. “A true cowman thinks just as much of his cattle if they are worth ten cents a pound or a dollar a pound.....” Joe Cole. “I would rather have three cows and a one-eyed mule than be foreman of the King Ranch....” Zane Cole.

This pretty much sums it up: a fierce indepen-dence of spirit and a love of animals and what the work that they do. This is from the two best cowboys that I ever saw....The could have been top hands on any ranch anywhere.

Advice on being a cowboy---it takes sand---and a never quit no matter what attitude....and learn from the best....and don’t quit learning....learn something new every time you mount up.

What people don’t see in the movies---cowboys cuss--and they are right good at it...going through what a cowboy goes through would cause a preacher to cuss. But the true cowboys leave it at the cow lot.

And who is my favorite cowboy? that’s too easy.... my dad, Zane Cole.

lesson in cutting. The whole time Larry was instructing Jerry with clear and con-cise direction. He’d say,“The cow’s always gonna turn around. I promise you.” “Think in reverse.”“Cow, horse and then you.”“Separate with your feet.”“Go to position and restand relax and wait.” Re-peatedly I’d hear him say to Jerry, “Position, posi-tion, position.Shape, shape, shape. Feet, feet, feet.”Larry says about his lessons, instead of the negative, I was telling the positive. Focus on the posi-tive not the negative. Flow positive. Instead of saying, “Don’t move,” I say, “Be still.” Make the wrong thing difficult and the right thing easy. Everything we do is biblical. Larry has had to relearn most of what he grew up knowing. 10 years ago, just months after having met Jerry and Marguerite Abel, Larry had a stroke. As the doctor was explain-ing to his mother all of the limitations of the stroke , Larry’s mother insisted on hearing from the doctor, “Instead of telling us all of the things he can’t do, we want to know what we can do.” She’s a prayer warrior. Can’t doesn’t work. I can. I will and I must does, says Larry. Marguerite follows the in-terview with a few words of her own. She says, “Larry and Becci are extraordi-narily hard-working people. When it gets hotter, their hours will change to 3 a.m. - 10 or 11 a.m.” It makes sense that his recovery was so success-ful. He works very hard at being a cowboy and that life lesson pours into his mar-riage, friendships and fam-ily. He is without a doubt devoted to God, his wife and his job. He says, “I’m glad I have the opportunity to do what I like and love.”

Terry ColeA SNAPSHOT OF A COWBOY

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New businesses are opening in Elgin and we talked with the Taco Bell owners group Tacala’s President, Tim Morrison, to find out more about why they are growing in Elgin. “Tacala is excited to bring Taco Bell back to Elgin, Texas in a new freestanding location”, said Tim Mor-rison, President of Tacala the local Taco Bell franchi-see, “The City of Elgin’s population is increasing, and there is strong economic development as evidenced by a revitalized downtown area, a new Austin Com-munity College campus, and new retail development. The city is growing and we are happy to be a part of that growth.” Tacala is the largest Taco Bell group in the United States and now has 257 locations. The Elgin store will have 25 team members and the group targets promoting from within for management posi-tions. “Elgin residents who are craving Taco Bell signature tastes won’t have to travel to Taylor or Pflugerville anymore. In fact, we can provide morn-ing commuters to Austin with the new Taco Bell breakfast for their commute, and night owls with Fourth Meal. Taco Bell has something for everyone at any time of the day.”What kind of community projects does Taco Bell support and what can we look forward to in Elgin? Team Tacala charities works with Taco Bell Foundation for teens that fo-cuses on ensuring teens graduate from high school, and does a lot of work with Boys and Girls Club. They just introduced a scholarship program for teen team members going on to post-secondary education, that offers scholarships $1,000 and up.

We interviewed Schlotzsky’s, Laura Merritt. Why build a store in Elgin Texas? Elgin is growing leaps and bounds yet it is still small enough to be able to have a personal relationship and know our guests! Elgin has been amazingly open to accept-ing us and welcoming us into their community. We are so blessed to be accepted as part of this commu-nity!I understand this is a very successful franchise what makes it work so well? It takes a combination of things to make a franchise successful. 1st Schlotzkys is a great brand! They are very committed to their product and their franchi-sees which is the 1st step to success. But that alone doesn’t make it successful. From there it takes an owner/operator to believe in the system and follow through with it. We lead by example with the passion we have for the brand. We feel if you are passionate about something and aren’t afraid to show it it can only be passed down. Seems like everyone loves the bread. What is the secret to the bread?Our bread is baked Fresh-from-Scratch® in our restaurants every day. We have bakers at the restau-rants whose sole job is to ensure our bread and pizza crusts are baked to perfection on a daily basis. Our guests love the fresh-baked taste of our sourdough, jalapeno cheese, rye and wheat breads.How many employees will the Elgin store have? Ideally we guess needing approximately 25 employees.What kind of community projects does Schlotzky’s support and what can we look forward to in Elgin? On a national level, Schlotzsky’s supports JDRF (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation), and we contribute to the group each year through a national, month-long fundraiser. The funds collected through this fund-raiser ultimately benefit the local chapters and local communities. On a local level we are currently active in the community in bastrop by hosting fundraiser nights for the local schools, providing sponsorship for the multiple athletics, we provide sponsorship for re-lay for life, as well as many other local organizations and events. We plan on doing the same in Elgin!

by Amy Miller, Elgin’sCommunity Development Director

Hours of Operation: Tu: 11-9 We-Th: 7-9 F-Sa: 7-10 Su: 7-3

We hope you’ll give us the chance to

knock your socks off!

Have you heard the news?

Maxine’s wants to be Elgin’s Hometown Cafe!

Some of our recent accolades:

TexasMonthly� e 40 Best Breakfast Places in Texas (2011)

� e 40 Best Small Town Cafes in Texas (2008)

Breakfast, Home Cooking & Overall RestaurantDesserts, Chicken Fried Steak, Sandwiches

113 Central Ave Elgin(512) 229-4002

Hours of Operation:Sunday & Monday 7-3, Tuesday, Wednesday,

Thursday 7-9, Friday & Saturday 7-10 15

Summer means swimming, fireworks, picnics, backyard barbeques, fam-ily and especially on July 4th, a time to remember and honor our country. Bonnie Hughes Sims, Elgin VFW Auxiliary officer and past president with her father James Hughes, World Ward II veteran shares what July 4th means to their family. “Two words come to mind, joy and sadness. Joy that we were born in this country with so many freedoms, and sadness for all the loss of life of those that made those opportunities possible for us. We are very proud to be in this country.” The City of Elgin hosts a 4th of July parade and program annually on July 4th. This year the parade will be at 10am on Friday July 4 and then starts at City Hall, 310 North Main Street. The array of creative, patriotic, non-motorized parade entries is both entertaining and inspiring. The American Legion and Vet-erans of Foreign Wars participate and the Boy Scouts carry a huge United States Flag. All sorts of wheels are in the parade: Skateboards, scoot-ers, wagons, strollers, bicycles, rollerblades, as well as those on their own two feet or on a four legged equine friend; even pets from parrots to canines join in the fun.

Heather Miller, age 11, enjoys the parade every year and often partici-pates with Girl Scout Troop 2334. “I like that every-one gets together and you can dress up. One year I dressed up as the Statue of Liberty. I like it that everyone is free to do good things, and I am happy that I live in the United States.” Boy Scout Troop 471 and 472 - “What does July 4th mean to you?”*Henry Flowers, 9, Pack 471 - “Justice and patriotism”*David Flowers, 8, Pack 471 - “felt more mature and full of pride’*Chance Woehl, 8, pack 471 - “that flag was way bigger than I thought it would be”*Evan Allen, Troop 472 - “It was cool to walk under the flag and make it wave like it was on a pole, and that it was really heavy”*Dallas Newlin, 14, Troop 472 - “honored by carrying the flag”*Jaren Mackay, 15, Troop 472 - “I like letting people know that we have scouts here in Elgin”Steven Fonda, 14, Troop 472 - “It was neat being in a parade”

Remember when July 4th In the late 1970s, the Elgin VFW had many all-day 4th of July celebra-tions, which would include sack races, pea shelling contests, bbq cook-offs, cake walks, music and dancing. Kids would run and play, and the little ones would go out to the patio for games and fun. Anna Belle and August Weisner remember how hot it was - there was no air conditioning - and they had to open all the windows.

Winkler & CompanyRealtors, Menley Group

www.WinklerTeam.com

512-281-3336

For all your real estate

needs.

4th of July Parade

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U.S. PostagePAID

EDDM Retai1

Local Postal Customer

ELGIN MAIN STREET BOARDP.O. Box 591Elgin, Texas 78621 USA

Dear Downtowner: What are all the Swedes around here up to these days? I heard something about a museum & a celebration or two. Signed, Ever Curious

There is a new museum in the works. The historic Newquist home from out in the countryside nearby was donated to New Sweden Lutheran Church and moved close to the church a few years ago. The New Sweden Heritage Center is working on extensive restoration efforts funded totally by donations. Contact the church office at 281-0056 to help!

Swedish Summer Festival – held at the SPJST Hall on June 19 at 5pm. They do the traditional maypole and recognize folks of Swedish descent age 75 and older from the local communities of Elgin, Lund, Kimbro, Manda, New Sweden & Type. The Oldest Swede in attendance will be hon-ored with the presentation of a cane. It is a catered dinner with a Swedish entertain-er and a silent auction. Watch the Elgin Courier for info & tickets.Santa Lucia Celebration, December 13 --Bethlehem Lutheran Church, New Sweden Lutheran Church, and The Swedish Association of Elgin sponsor the annual Santa Lucia Celebration at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. This pageant features

Ask the Downtowner by: Shirley Bowlin

Santa Lucia and her court and tells the story of this sad but joyous legend. A young teenage girl of Swedish descent from one of the congregations is selected to be Santa Lucia for the year. Location TBA.

Did you know that The Elgin Arts Association, with a paid member-ship of fewer than 30 members awarded a total of $5000 in schol-arships to graduating EHS seniors? The awardees are: Rian Castillo, Alyssa Shelton, Tiffany Villalobos & Ivette Marin-Sosa. The EAA is a 501(c)3 non-profit and all the monies came from fundraising and local donors. The Elgin Arts Association (EAA) is a non-profit organization of artists, artisans and community members dedicated to furthering artistic understanding and encouraging artistic growth of its members in the greater Elgin, TX community by pro-moting interest, education, knowledge and skills in the arts. See www.elginartsassocia-tion.com for information on meetings and membership. The Downtowner thinks this is pretty amazing!

July 9th Tri County Team Roping Free admission to the public

July 10th 4D Barrel Race Free admission to the public

July 11&12th RODEO!!! $10 Admission 13 & over $5 Admission 6-12 5 & under are free

For additional information visit the Texas Lost Pines Riding Club website: www.tlprc.org

RODEOIN JULY