inside issue - wbnawbna.us/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/wbna_january_2017_4... · 2017-02-05 · vol....

News and information for the residents of Wells Branch. Vol. 25, Issue 1, January 2017

Birding in WB ................................................page 7

Clubs & Social Groups ......................pages 5, 7, 8, 14, 15

Community Calendar ............................................. page 20

Construction Updates ................................................page 9

Financial Planning ...................................... pages 6, 16

Freeze Tips ............................................. page 15

Garden Guild ............................................. page 14

KWBB ............................................. page 18

KUDOS ................................................page 6

Library News ....................................pages 10, 16

Inside this IssueSafety (ESD & TCSO) .................................... pages 3, 6, 7

School News ...............................pages 5, 12, 13

Scouting ....................................pages 18, 19

Soccer ................................................page 2

Spring Break Camps & Classes ...................................... pages 8, 14

Stay Connected! ................................................page 2

Teen Dating Violence ............................................. page 11

TxDOT, I35 & Tolls ............................................. page 17

Upcoming Events .............................pages 4, 6, 8, 15

WBNA Elections ................................................page 4

Wells Branch Neighborhood

Association wbna.us

See Insert for

WBNA Needs YOU!!! by Debby Thompson, WBNA President

Whether you’re in-district or out-of-district, home owner or apartment dweller, you’re a part of Wells Branch and that makes you a part of the Wells Branch Neighborhood Association. While membership in the WBNA is completely voluntary, your membership counts. YOU make a difference.

Throughout the year, the WBNA works to serve Wells Branch. Creating and maintaining our sense of community is really what we’re all about. Whether it’s the events we host throughout the year, our newsletter, the website, or our Facebook page, they all exist to serve you, our neighbors. Each January, we ask you to support your neighborhood asso-ciation by renewing your WBNA membership for only $20.

Membership in the WBNA helps to protect the value of your home by keeping you informed about neighborhood crime, proposed developments (e.g., housing, toll road construction, school boundary changes) and community events. We attend regular MUD Board meetings and host public meetings for the school districts, county, TXDOT and our State Represent-ative in order to stay on top of changes that might affect our Wells Branch family. While we’re known as representing the greater Wells Branch area; our voice is strongest when we have a large membership of record to back it up.

The WBNA sponsors many events throughout the year that improve the neighborhood and help foster community spirit. Your dues, along with funds raised at the 4th Fest Silent Auction, pay for the annual Easter Egg Hunt, National Night Out, Pumpkin Painting in the Park, our participation at Trunk or Treat and Luminary Fest, Candidate Forums, and Safety Seminars throughout the year. In addition to these events, our Board and Members coordinate and volunteer their time for Wells Branch at our Extreme Clean events. Together with the WB MUD, we continue to grow and expand the services offered each quarter. Last, but certainly not least, the WBNA Neighborhood News (six issues per year), our website wbna.us, and our Facebook page provide you with the latest infor-mation on what’s going on in our community.

WBNA is quite literally a labor of love. It was created by and is run by VOLUNTEERS. All of these activities are funded through membership, advertising in the newsletter and the 4th Fest Silent Auction. While you receive all the benefits of having an active neighborhood association for free, your $20 membership really does make a difference in what we can provide. There’s a membership form on the back page, a printable version on the website, and an enclosed envelope in this newsletter. Can we count on your support this year?

MAKE A DIFFERENCE-Join WBNA!Membership Form on Back Page -

Return Envelope in Center Section!NOTE: If you joined after October 1, 2016, your

membership is good through January 2018.

Save the Date!WBNA Election & FOL Financial SeriesThursday, February 23, 6:00pm/6:30pm

WB Kite Festival Sunday, March 5, 10am-5pm See page 4 for directions

WBNA Easter Egg HuntSaturday, April 15, 10:30am

WBNA January 2017 www.wbna.us

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Stay Connected! by Joy Bryant

Wells Branch is a large, vibrant community with ongoing news and events. Whether you are interested in neighbor-hood activities, safety alerts, items for sale, lost pets or MUD updates there are several different ways to keep your pulse on what is happening.

Wells Branch Neighborhood Association on Facebook - “Like” us and get updates on all upcoming WB activities plus notification when event photos are posted. (1660+ followers)

Wells Branch Neighbors Google Group - This popular discussion group makes it very easy for residents to share neighborhood information of all types via email. Send an email to [email protected] with name, physical address and email to be added. (1130+ mem-bers)

Wells Branch MUD on Facebook - Announcement page for MUD sponsored events and activities for WB resi-dents. (950+ followers)

Nextdoor (Wells Branch) - a private social network for neighborhoods. Includes web-based threads and choices as to if information also received as email/text. (750 members)

Wells Branch Parents Facebook Group - A place for WB area parents and caregivers to plan playdates and find playmates! (550+ members)

Wells Branch Melting Pot Facebook Group - The group welcomes anyone in WB interested in meeting neighbors and expanding the comfort or knowledge of this great neighborhood and surroundings. (500+ members)

HOA & POA Websites - Each Home Owners Association (HOA) and Property Owners Association (POA), has a communication channel for its members.

To find links and learn more, visit the WBNA website and scroll down to the large footer area. The above list repre-sents some of the more general communication channels. There are others targeting specific interests such as the library, gardening, sports, hobbies and more.

Reminder: with any social media tool, always check out your options for receiving information and the privacy features available. Take the time to configure your account in the way that best suits your specific needs.

WB Spring Soccer Kicks Off Soon!By: Leisha Richardson, Secretary, Wells Branch Soccer Association

The Wells Branch Soccer Association (WBSA) Spring 2017 sea-son officially begins mid-February with the first games taking place the weekend of February 25. WBSA is anticipating another record breaking season with projected registration of 400 players!

There is still time to sign up your players ages 4 and up for North Austin’s most family friendly and affordable soccer association. The deadline to register is February 5, 2017. Also be sure to mark your calendars for a fun grassroots soc-cer festival and parent orientation on February 10. Visit www.wellsbranchsoccer.com to register and see our Facebook page to learn about upcoming events. We look for-ward to seeing you all out on the fields in a few weeks!

Congratulations to the WBSA United 02 Boys Team on a winning season.

www.wbna.usWBNA January 2017

Pam (King) Wachholz, GRI REALTOR®, eXp Realty

Above asking price offer received pre-MLS!

Put the HomeCity Advantage to work for you!

As part of my committment to this community, a donation will be made to the WBCL or WB 501(c)3 group of your choice upon closing.

“We’re so lucky to have found you to help find us a home. Thank you for every-thing you’ve done for us!”

• Dedicated to 100% client satisfaction• Excellent client reviews• Continuing education above and beyond minimum requirements to serve YOU better!• 8 Average Days on Market for listings

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David & Jordan, 1st time Homeowners

Travis County ESD No. 2 Now Providing Ambulance Service by Allison Strupeck, PIO/Community Outreach Coordinator, Prevention Division Pflugerville Fire Dept./Travis County ESD No. 2

Ambulance service in northeast Travis County is getting a much anticipated boost, with Travis

County Emergency Services District No. 2 (Pflugerville Fire Department) becoming licensed to start operating its own ambulances.

A new, red Pflugerville Fire ambulance is now responding to medical emergencies, dubbed “Medic 221” and based out of Fire Station 2 right here in Wells Branch. Another is being kept in reserve for use when the first is out of ser-vice, just like fire departments do with their fire trucks. By this summer, Pflugerville Fire will get a third, which will be based at the Central Fire Station in historic downtown Pflugerville, so that it has a pair of ambulances to actively respond to emergencies. The fleet is likely to keep growing in the future. These are in addition to the Austin-Travis County EMS ambulances contracted to operate from Fire Station 3 (Kelly Lane) and Station 4 (Pflugerville Parkway).

Our community indicated it wanted this level of service by voting in 2013 to add ½-cent sales tax in the ESD No. 2 areas outside of the City of Pflugerville and the Wells Branch Library District. Since then, the Pflugerville Fire Department has added Advance Life Support paramedics to some of its fire engines while working diligently to add ambulance ser-vice. It is a dream come true for Fire Chief Ron Moellenberg, who led the charge to enhance the delivery of emergency medical care in a cost-effective manner.

“This is a direct result of voter support and our strategic plan-ning process,” said Chief Moellenberg. “We created a plan because we saw a clear need in our rapidly growing commu-nity, with most of our 8,000 calls a year being medical calls.”

Travis County ESD No. 2 serves about 100,000 people across a sprawling 100-square-mile mix of suburban and rural prop-erty, encompassing an area twice as large as the City of Pflugerville. In recent years, ambulances were not immedi-ately available in the district about 40% of the time.

“Because we truly care about those we serve, we are dedicated to enhancing services while also maintaining effi-ciency,” Chief Moellenberg said. “It will be a huge benefit to our community to have such a highly skilled workforce in emergency services.”

Pflugerville Fire Dept. paramedics make final preparations for their first dispatch in the Department’s new ambulance, based here at Fire Station 2.


2nd Annual WB Kite FestivalSunday, March 5 • 10am-5pmRetention Pond/Dog Park northeast of theWB MUD Annex • 14611 Wells Port DriveCome early and stay late! Join us for a kite fly-ing, picnicking, FAMILY FRIENDLY, community led event. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs. Scouts will be selling bottled water and other concessions may be available; pack your own goodies or purchase once you get there. Please bring a trash bag as we’re required to pack our rubbish out.

As the weather is somewhat unpredictable in March, our rain date is March 12. For questions, or to help with the plan-ning, please contact Mark Johnson at [email protected]. Look for our event on Facebook and share with your friends and neighbors.

Annual WBNA Officer Elections Thursday, February 23, 6:00pmWB Community Center All residents (both in-district and out-of-district) are invited and encouraged to attend and participate in the annual WBNA board elections on Thursday, February 23, 6:00pm at the Community Center on Klattenhoff, prior to the FOL Financial seminar.

In February of 2016, the membership voted to adopt two year terms and assign place numbers. Odd numbered places are to be elected during odd years with even numbered plac-es are up for re-election on alternate years. This February, we’ll be selecting board members for Places 1, 3, 5, and 7. We’ll begin the evening with WBNA officer elections. Below is a list of current board members who are willing to continue serving the neighborhood in 2017 and will be seeking re-elec-tion. They are:

Place 1 - Lara BennettPlace 3 - Donna MalonePlace 5 - Donna LyonsPlace 7 - Margaret Sufke

Additional nominations will be taken from the floor.

Please note the full WBNA Annual Meeting and Planning Session will take place in March. Once confirmed, the date and location will be posted on the wbna.us webpage, the WBNA Facebook page and the WB Google group.

Calling All Board Game Enthusiasts!The Board Gaming Hobby has exploded, and WB MUD wants you to come be a part of it, right here Wells Branch! The Rec. Center will be hosting a new Board Gaming community event on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 1 pm-8 pm beginning February 19. Feel free to drop in and leave at any point. There will be assistance in learning how to play the games. Ages 13+, please. A selection of games will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring a game to share! This event is open and free to the community, no membership required. Please email [email protected] with questions.


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7 Ways to Instant Curb Appeal by Shannon Best

Spring is right around the corner and is the perfect time to spruce up the outside of your home. Here are a few quick and easy ways to get started.

Mow and edge your lawn. Whether you bag your grass •and leaves or just mulch, edging will give your lawn a fin-ished look. Get rid of dead plants and bushes. Take care of pruning •needs before the trees start to leaf out.Replace broken flower pots and plant new flowers.•Give your front door a fresh coat of paint and new hard-•ware. Replace your house numbers with updated numbers. •Power wash and re-stain your fence. •Power wash your driveway and sidewalk. •

European Dance Guild Come learn something NEW (or OLD, as the case may be). The European Dance Guild meets on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, from 6 to 8pm in Room 101 of the Rec.

Center, 3000 Shoreline Drive. The meeting is free and open to the public. No previous experience is required. Every dance is taught before it is danced to music. If you can walk, you can do this type of dance. If you have any questions, please contact Daniel White at 512-413-0097.

March Deadline for WBNA Neighborhood News

March 10ALL articles & ads MUST be

received by 3/10.

School Choice Town Hall EventWednesday, February 1, 20176:00–7:30 pmKIPP Austin Comunidad/Gymnasium8004 Cameron Road, Austin, TX 78754

Please join the Texas Charter Schools Association along with Texas Legislators and Austin area charter school parents, sup-porters and operators to kick off the 2017 legislative session. At this event you will:

Hear about education issues going on right now at the •Texas Capitol and the priorities for charter schools during the next legislative session.Learn how to effectively communicate with lawmakers •on behalf of your charter school student.

For more information, please visit us at txcharterschools.org/speak-out or contact Martha Fernandez at (512) 584-8272, Ext. 310 or [email protected].


TCSO NewsCongratulations are in order for Captain Craig Smith. He became Captain of the Central Command as of January 1, 2017. Captain Smith now oversees SWAT, VICE, Intelligence, Homicide, Child Abuse, Family Violence, Robbery, Crime Scene, Evidence and Victim’s Services. Captain Al LeBlanc is now over East Command.

If you missed the WBNA Annual Safety Seminar with Captain Smith in December, a link to the video is posted at wbna.us.

Our friend and neighbor, Deputy Deke Pierce, officially retired from TCSO as of January 31, 2017, with 22 years of service. He has accepted an offer of employment with Williamson County Constable Office, Precinct 1, but assures us that we’ll still see him around Wells Branch and he’ll continue to be here to help his neighbors. Thank you for your service, Deputy Pierce.

KUDOS! Thanks to all who delivered our Holiday newsletter. You truly are appreciated!

Dan Barnekow ∙ Emily Berver ∙ Tineke Blythe ∙ Joy Bryant ∙ Karen Buerkle ∙ Garland Bullock ∙ Phil & Dana Carter ∙ Kim Clark ∙ Chris & Alex Connell ∙ Delian Filip ∙ Michelle Gadush ∙ Miriam, Melissa & Briana Garate ∙ Amy Gardner ∙ Glen Garry ∙ Susie Gillespie ∙ Noe Gonzalez ∙ Carla & Alexander Gordon ∙ Katie Halling ∙ Cynthia Hannon ∙ Betsey, Tessi & Cole Harper ∙ Max & Grant Hatfield ∙ Alejandra Hernandez ∙ Travers Hough ∙ Blythe Johnson ∙ Gus Kohn* ∙ Rachel & Brian LeBansky ∙ Nancy Loomis ∙ Erik Macdanz ∙ Siv, Jyoti & Arjuna Manda ∙ Mikella Maughan ∙ Bill May ∙ Joan & Dave Mead ∙ Gary Mueller ∙ Arlie Pfeifer ∙ Peggy Rackley ∙ Chevonne Read ∙ Farah Rhoads ∙ Jennifer & Audrey Ricci ∙ Jessica Ridge ∙ Barbara Romero ∙ Vangie Sager ∙ Mark Schneider ∙ Alice Sears ∙ Jeremy Selvidge ∙ Virgil Smith* ∙ Gayle Speranza ∙ Sharon Sproat ∙ DeLane Spriggs ∙ Margaret Sufke ∙ Debby Thompson* ∙ Jill & J.R. Traffanstedt ∙ Carl Unruh** ∙ Daniel White* ∙ Pamela & Bre Woodward ∙ Toni Wright *Delivered more than one section **Special thanks to Carl for organizing delivery for all of Brattonwood

If you would like to deliver the newsletter, please contact our distribution team at [email protected] or 512-656-0654. We’ll bring the newsletters over to you along with a map of the delivery area.

If you’ve never done this before, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour. We always try to match up everyone with the area they live in. Sometimes there’s a lot of response for one area and none for other areas. If so, we try to “get you close”. Or, if you’d like to see other parts of Wells Branch, let us know and we’ll gladly find a section for you.

What’s Smarter -- Paying Off Debts or Investing? by Nicole Viator, Edward Jones Financial Advisor

Are you just starting out in your career? If so, you will face some financial challenges, but you might also encounter some pleasant choices – such as what to do with extra dis-posable income. So, when you get a bonus or tax refund, should you pay off debts or invest for your future?

In thinking about debts, consider whether they are “good” or “bad.” A “good” debt might be your mortgage, which pro-vides deductible interest payments. A “bad” debt could be a nondeductible, high-rate consumer loan – and this is the type of debt you might want to pay off first.

Of course, with extra money, you may be tempted to make extra mortgage payments, because it just feels like you’re doing something positive. Yet, your house is somewhat illiq-uid – it’s hard to get money out of it. You might want to con-sider putting extra money into investments such as stocks and bonds, which offer you greater liquidity, plus the poten-tial for long-term growth and current income.

Whatever you decide, use your extra money wisely – you weren’t necessarily counting on it, but you can make it count for you.

Reduce • Reuse • RecycleMark your calendars for

Extreme Clean Spring - April 8Drug Take-Back | FREE Shredding Habitat for Humanity | Easter Seals ATXHAW Collections | Bulk Trash E-cycling | Household Waste | Metal Styrofoam PLEASE CHECK WBNA.US for SPECIFIC TIMES. DRUG TAKE-BACK, SHREDDING & HABITAT CLOSE EARLY.


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Birding in Wells Branch by Wanda Holcombe

We are delighted to report that Hosted Bird Walks will con-tinue in 2017 on the first Monday and third Saturday of each month at 8:00 am meeting at the Mills Pond Gazebo off Wells Port Drive, weather permitting. Any change in schedule will be posted on the WBNA Calendar. If you would like to be added to the WB Birding group email list, contact Wanda Holcombe directly at [email protected].

More Purple Martin Houses Coming in the North Meadow Last year, Wells Branch MUD established Purple Martin Gourd Houses in the North Meadow. Another set will be installed in the near future. With the help of a volunteer group this past year we were very successful in managing them to keep swallows, starlings and sparrows “out”. We look forward to seeing the Purple Martins return in early spring looking for their home to nest and expand their family; therefore, we need more volunteers to help care for them. If you are interested in being part of this volunteer care group, contact Karen Hagemann for the details on how to join and what that entails. You can read more about the Wells Branch Purple Martins Project on the WB MUD website: http://wellsbranchmud.com/parks-a-recreation/purple-martins

Best Wishes for a great birding year in 2017!Sharon Richardson | [email protected] Johnson | [email protected] Hagemann | [email protected] Holcombe | [email protected]

¡Hola, vecinos! Howdy, neighbors!By Jeremy Selvidge, Managing Technology and Outreach Librarian

After a temporary hiatus, we’re happy to announce that Spanish Conversation Hour at the Wells Branch Community Library will resume in February. Come together with friends and neighbors of all levels of ability to practice your Spanish speaking and listening skills.

Join us Monday, February 6, from 6:30 to 7:30pm for the first meeting of the new year! Spanish Conversation Hour will continue the first Monday of each month.

If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected] or call 512-989-3188 during our open hours.

We look forward to seeing you!

WB Crime StatsAs an added feature for our neighborhood watch groups, the WBNA posts monthly crime statistics for Wells Branch, as supplied by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, under the ‘Safety’ tab at wbna.us. Data will be in Excel format so that you may sort either by crime or address. Street names will be listed; addresses will not. Please note that these lists do not include deceased persons, sexual assaults, all crimes against children, and emotionally disturbed persons. This page will be updated monthly with the previous month post-ed around the 10th of the current month. Questions? [email protected]

For daily posts regarding criminal activity, sign up for emails at SpotCrime.com.


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WB ArmadaInformation regarding Registration for our 2017 Summer Season will be available on our website next month. The tentative team schedule for the 2017 summer season can be found on our site as well: wellsbranch.swimtopia.com/

WB Running Club by Russell JonesThe WB Running Club is a completely free and fun group of community members who meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:45-6:45am at the Gazebo in Katherine Fleischer Park. Workouts are tailored to meet the needs of every individual with members running at all different paces. Come join the fun! For more info go to www.wbrunclub.com or call, text, or e-mail [email protected], (512) 825-2369.

WB Walking Club WB Walking Club meets in front of KF Pool at 7am on Tuesdays & Thursdays and utilizes the WB MUD trails. Join us for a brisk walk! For more info, contact Katie Hutcheson at [email protected].

Aquafit Classes by Katie Hutcheson

WB MUD offers Aqua-fit classes year-round each Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-2pm at Willow Bend Pool. This class requires the MUD Multi-class card; for more informa-tion visit wellsbranchmud.com.Please wear swim attire, bring a water bottle and towel.If it is raining or below 55° we will not meet. Otherwise, we are there year round. See you at the pool! For more infor-mation, contact Katie Hutcheson at 512-516-2621 or [email protected]

Spring Break Art Camp MAD FOR MOSAICS March14-16•Tues-Thurs•12-3pmWBRec.Center•Ages7-12•Limit18Fee: $45 all supplies included

During the 3 day camp, your child will learn a little history about mosaics and how they are used around the world. They will create a stepping stone, a mask, and more! Campers should bring a drink and a snack. Taught by Dianne Koehler, art teacher. Sign up online at wellsbranchmud.com/parks-a-recreation/youth-programs, at WB MUD Rec. Center, 3000 Shoreline Drive, or call 512-251-9814.

WB Photo Club Update by Margaret McGhee-Sufke

Welcome to 2017! We kicked off the New Year with a class on Basic Color Theory and how it applies to photography.

Our February 14 meeting will be a hands-on session to prac-tice capturing and printing sample color images under vari-ous lighting conditions. We will also help folks select the cor-rect settings on their cameras to ensure correct color cap-ture. In the next few months we are planning to revise/update the club’s web presence and make the presentation materials from the various meetings available.

Our sessions are “drop in” and anyone at any skill level is wel-come to attend. The purpose of our group is to share the knowledge and tools of photography. The best reward of this wonderful hobby is to create a lasting image while changing the way you see the world. Make plans to join us on the sec-ond Tuesday of each month, in the WB Rec. Center, 3000 Shoreline Drive at 6:30pm. Questions? Contact: Margaret at [email protected].


Turn Lanes at Shoreline/1325: We had previously reported that Travis County intended to repave and restripe Shoreline over winter break. Obviously, that didn’t happen. They are now scheduled to repave that roadway in April 2017 and will restripe at that time dedicated left turn, straightaway, and right turn lanes at the light at 1325. If you have input on any changes you feel may be necessary in the striping around ATHLOS Academy, Shoreline Church or the new soccer com-plex, now is the time to make your desires known. Send comments to [email protected]. We’ll compile and forward to Travis County.

Light at Sauls/Bratton/Long Vista: Travis County signal proj-ects are backed up at the moment. They are hoping this light will be installed over the summer.

Light at Howard/WB Pkwy: All the utility issues have finally been worked out and they should be starting some of the construction work in February with completion by April 2017.

Cadoz Extension: Land has been cleared, but we don’t have an ETA on road completion at this time.

Incomplete segments of Grand Avenue: The developers have broken ground, but we don’t yet have a completion date for the roadways.

The MISSING LINK in the Grand Avenue extension aka the tiny segment between Crissom and Bratton that isn’t yet scheduled for development. In our meeting with Travis

County last year, we were told that unless the property owner chose to develop the land, we were looking at trying to include the roadway in the next bond election, where, if passed, it would still be several years out before completion.

WB resident, Daniel Barnekow and the WBNA reached out to the land owner several months ago regarding this property. Commissioner Shea and the Travis County development team met with him shortly thereafter. The property owner has made a proposal to Travis County that would allow construc-tion to begin on two lanes. The proposal has been referred to the Development Services division. We don’t have an answer yet, but a favorable solution is being encouraged by our County Commissioner, Ms. Shea. As always, we’ll keep you posted with any developments.

Grand Opening of the Art at Bratton’s EdgeSeveral residents attended the grand opening in December along with our County Commissioner, Brigid Shea. All were impressed with the quality of the apartment units as well as the landscaped retention ponds. Bratton’s Edge is affordable housing at its best and already 100% leased with a waiting list.

Update on The Waters at Willow RunAfter numerous delays in retention pond completion, the Waters at Willow Run received their Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Austin and began move-ins on October 1, 2016. All three bedroom units have been leased, and they still have several one and two bedroom units available.

Travis County Road Updates by Debby Thompson, WBNA President


UPCOMING EVENTS Chinese New Year Lion Dance Saturday, January 28 at 10 a.m. Celebrate the Chinese New Year with a live performance by the Texas Dragon/Lion Dance Team.

Elephant and Piggie Party Friday, February 10 at 6 p.m. Enjoy an evening of crafts , snacks, and a visit from Elephant and Piggie!

Terrance Taps, the Tap Dance Man Saturday, February 25 at 11 a.m. Join us for a fun, interactive tap dance performance by Terrance Taps, the Tap Dance Man! All ages welcome, no registration required.

LEGO Fun Day Sunday, March 12 from 2-4 p.m. Enjoy a fun-filled day of LEGO building and discovery! For ages 4+. Registration required.

LEGO Robotics Mondays from 4-5 p.m. LEGO Robotics for ages 5+. No registration required.

Storytime & Craft Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays at 11 a.m. All ages. Tickets available 30 minutes before program at the kids desk.

Wiggle Worms Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free play with toys for ages 1-4.

Martian Math Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. Math enrichment program for grades 3-6. Registration required. Contact [email protected] to register.

EVENTS

FOR KIDS EVENTS

FOR ADULTS

15001 Wells Port Drive

http://www.wblibrary.org 512-989-3188

Mon. – Thurs. 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Fri. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun. 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

To see everything happening at the Library this winter, check out our event calendar at

WWW.WBLIBRARY.ORG

UPCOMING CLOSURES Thursday, January 26

Library closed for inventory

Sunday, April 16 Library closed

DIY Wednesdays Second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. Ages 16+. Learn a new skill every month at the library! Register online at wblibrary.eventbrite.com. February 8: Card Embossing March 8: Glass Etching

Financial Seminars Select Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Explore new topics while learning basic terms and concepts. Register online at wblibrary.eventbrite.com. February 16: Understanding Taxes April 13: College Funding

Computer and Career Workshops Register online at wblibrary.eventbrite.com. Jan. 29: Excel Intermediate Feb. 4: Word Intermediate Feb. 5: Computer Basics Feb. 18: Résumé Makeovers Feb. 19: Word Basics March 4: Excel Basics March 5: Word Intermediate March 19: Programming with Scratch March 25: Résumé Makeovers

¡Nueva! La Hora del Cuento El 2o y el 4o jueves a las 11a.m. Para los niños de 0-5 años en español.

SAVE THE DATE!

Love Your Library Reception Sunday, February 19 at 4 p.m.


February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month – Warning Signs: If it doesn’t feel right – It’s NOT Does one person in the relationship:

Insult you in public?•

Act jealous when you talk to others?•

Check on you constantly?•

Blow disagreements out of proportion?•

Threaten to break up with you?•

Lose his/her temper verbally?•

Break/hit things to intimidate you?•

Blame you for his/her problems?•

This person is an abuser.

Does the other person:Constantly cancel plans for reasons that sound untrue?•

Always worry about making their boy/girlfriend angry?•

Give up things that are important?•

Show signs of physical abuse like bruises/cuts?•

Have a boy/girlfriend that wants them available •ALL the time?

Become isolated from friends or family?•

This is a victim.

It’s hard to acknowledge when someone you care about is in an abusive relationship. If any of these warning signs sound familiar, it’s important to help before it gets worse.

If you need to talk…Call 512-267-SAFE, 512-927-9616 TTY or 1-866-331-9474

For more information on teen dating violence, signs to watch for and how you can help or get help, visit: safeplace.org or loveisrespect.org

In the past, the WBNA has sponsored teen dating violence seminars. If you would be interested in attending an educational seminar or having one tailored to your teen’s peer group, please contact me and we can set something up with the Travis County Sheriff’s Office. This is a great seminar for athletic clubs, choir, band, swim team, scouts, and soccer - anywhere you have a group of teens. Debby Thompson 512-656-0654 or [email protected]*Reproduced from a document by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office. Content modified from seeitandstopit.org.

Drone View of JLJ ElementaryWonder what the new elementary school looks like? Scott Cannon has provided us with a bird’s eye view of Joe Lee Johnson Elementary. Check out his drone video at: https://youtu.be/Jm6JE8vArM4


Concordia High School by Jim Binneboese

We continue to expand the diversity of our student body by working with Premier/Cambridge/China Hope Project to enroll new international students. A quality Christian education is the goal of these students – many of whom are from families working in Austin temporarily or those who wish to broaden their knowledge of English and American business customs for their future. Currently, students from about 8 countries are enrolled in various grade levels.

Our 36 seniors have earned about $4M in college academic scholarships. This is a new CHS record. We are doing a great job in equipping our students for college work and college life.

Prospective students are encouraged to participate in a “shadowing day” at the school to see the day to day class-room activities and events. We currently have 14 prospective students engaged in the shadowing event.

Be sure to follow daily CHS activities online at chsaustin.org or on Facebook or Twitter.

Joe Lee Johnson STEAM Academy News JLJ PTA by Stephanie Hilchey, Secretary, JLJ PTA

Welcome back Trailblazers! Thank you to our volunteers for partnering with us to make the first half of the school year a huge success. We could not carryout our plans without your help! We look forward to an exciting second half of the school year full of fun Trailblazer Community activities!

February Activities:Feb 7, 6:15-7:30pm - Trailblazer Community-PTA Meeting Feb 8 - Counselors Appreciation DayFeb 10 - Crossing Guard Appreciation DayFeb 14, 1:30pm - Valentine’s Classroom PartiesFeb 20 - No School, President’s DayFeb 24, 6-8pm - Family Glow Party (JLJ PTA Event)

Mark your calendars for Spring Break from March 13 - 17. Classes will resume on March 20, 2017.

Did you know we have a literacy program at Joe Lee Johnson called Education Connection? We need volunteers to read to children during the school days. Join us in seeing every child reading by the end of 3rd grade, impacting the next genera-tion in our school! Please contact [email protected] for more information. www.education-connection.org

Harmony Enrollment Opportunitiesby Clarissa Davila, Campus Outreach Coordinator - North Austin

Welcome to the New Year! Harmony Public Schools is now enrolling for the 2017-2018 school year! Open Enrollment is until February 10th. We offer school tours to prospective parents and students. Come into our campus to say hello! For more information: http://harmonytx.org/

Chaparral Star Academy by Amy Mowrer

Chaparral Star Academy, located at 14046 Summit Drive, is a public charter school servicing grades K-12. We offer rigorous, college-preparatory curricu-lum in a compacted 4-hour daily schedule. Students attend either the Morning session (7:45 – 11:50) OR Afternoon ses-sion (12:05 – 4:10) allowing more flexibility for extracurricular activities.

Class sizes are limited to 15 students per class, allowing for a more productive environment. Curriculum is accelerated and compacted across all grades, giving students who are innately interested in pursuing the highest goals a perfect fit. The schedule is ideal for highly-motivated students involved in major programs outside of the classroom and families in need of a more flexible daily schedule.

Open enrollment began January 23 and goes through February 2, 2017. Anyone wishing to apply for the 2017-2018 school year should do so during this time.

Our National Champion Speech Team will be hosting a school wide garage sale as a fundraiser this spring. They are cur-rently accepting donations of items that could be sold at the garage sale. We would love to receive any donations our neighbors have to offer and would love your support at the garage sale when the time comes (date TBA).

For more information, please visit our website at http://chap-arralstaracademy.com/.

McNeil Project Grad 2017 by Amy Weir

Project Graduation is a totally self-supported program, funded entirely by the generosity of parents, our community and local businesses that engage in our fundraisers and/or become sponsors. We only have 4 months to finish raising the funds, getting the entertainment, and planning for Project Graduation. We need help with donations, sponsorships, food, and prizes. To volunteer, con-tact Amy at mcneilprojectgrad.ch2v.com

Flock your family & friends for a great cause! All proceeds benefit McNeil Project Grad 2017!

Flockings begin at $15 and are great for birthdays, anniversa-ries, and any other occasion or just for fun!! Go to “Flocking” at http://mcneilprojectgrad.ch2v.com and reserve your fla-mingo flocking date today.

Corporate Sponsors Needed! If you own a business, have a family member who owns a business, or if you work for a business that would be willing to sponsor McNeil’s Project Graduation Event; a safe, alcohol and drug free event to keep our seniors safe on the night that statistically has the most drunk driving wrecks and fatalities for seniors - please for-ward a link to our Sponsor Page at http://mcneilprojectgrad.ch2v.com/ so we can get them signed up!

JLJ STEAM Garden News by Heather Johnson

Joe Lee Johnson students are studying seed dispersal meth-ods, starting a wormery, building up their farmer's market and designing a butterfly garden to build this spring. Spring is time to garden!


WBE Arts Integration Academy News PTA Update by Laura Gomez-Horton, Secretary, WBE AIA PTA

Hey everyone!! Spring is almost here and that means three things: allergies, spring break, and the annual Wells Branch Elementary SPRING FEST!!!!!

Please join us on Saturday, April 8th from 2-6pm at Wells Branch Elementary for loads of fun! There will be games, food, and a silent auction. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, please join us in making it a success!

Spring Fest is open to the community; you do not need to have a child or be affiliated with the school. If you would like to donate to the silent auction, sponsor a booth, or volunteer in some capacity, please email [email protected]

Also, if you buy products with “box tops” (these come on cer-tain products such as cereals, facial tissues, etc.) we are happy to collect any you might have lying around. Contact [email protected] for pick up or drop off information.

Kudos for all the amazing performances put on by the WB Elementary students, teachers, staff, and volunteers at the Winter Showcase!

Thank you to all our volunteers and participants at the annual health fair!

Lastly, Come check out the 2nd and 3rd graders performing at our next PTA general meeting on February 14th at 6:30pm.

WBE AIA Farmer’s Market by Dianne Koehler

Although the freeze wiped out many of the plants at the peak of readiness, we had lots of seedlings in the greenhouse so expect to see lettuce, spinach, chard, kale and broccoli when we resume our markets in February. We also hope to have plants again for transplanting this spring. All produce is ORGANIC and grown by the students.

The WBE AIA Farmer’s Market is held on Fridays at 2:40pm at the corner of Town Hill and Merrilltown. Watch for weekly updates on the WB Google Group and on Facebook (WBNA & WB Melting Pot).

Connally HS Project GradEnjoy a Mardi Gras themed evening including Dinner & Drinks, Reverse Raffle, Silent Auction and lots of socializing and

laughter with wonderful people all for the purpose of helping to keep graduates safe on their special night! Event takes place at Pflugerville Lion’s Club at 6pm on February 19.

Tickets are $40/each or $75/for two and include: a fun filled evening – delectable food, beer and wine –AND – a CHANCE TO WIN $1,000!

Get a group together and make it an exciting evening for all! Contact Debbie Brown at [email protected] for tickets or more information.

Northwest Elementary by Cindy Padavick

Northwest Elementary just completed our annual Science Fair and had many amazing projects on display. We would like to thank our students (and parents) for all the time, effort and energy devoted to science fair projects, and our community members for being excellent judges.

The Northwest Musical club has been working since October on our musical, Alice in Wonderland. We will be having three performances in February and are looking forward to sharing this experience with you! Our 3 performances will be:Friday, February 10th @ 1:45pm (school performance)Friday, February 10th @ 6:30pm (evening performance)Saturday, February 11th @ 2:30pm (community matinee)

We welcome any and all to come to the performances! We are excited to be performing for you and can’t wait for you all to be able to enjoy it.

Our Spring Book Fair is fast approaching! Student & Teacher preview day is Friday, February 24th. Student purchasing will be Monday, February 27th and through Friday, March 3rd. More information will be coming out soon. If you are able/willing to help with set up, on the 23rd, work during the fair, or help tear down after the fair is over, please let us know.

Stay informed by checking your student’s folder, the school calendar, Facebook, and the NW listserv emails for notices, times and information on all events.

Feb. 1, Noon: Early ReleaseFeb. 3: 5th Grade field trip to Inner Space Caverns 100th Day of SchoolFeb. 8, 5-8pm: McTeacher’s Night - Join Us at McDonald’s 13818 Burnet Road (off Mopac)Feb. 17, 6:30-8:30pm: Valentine’s Day Dance in gymFeb. 20: Staff Development Day - Student HolidayFeb. 27-Mar. 3: Book FairMar. 13-17: Spring Break

Athlos Leadership Academy/Wells Branch Leadership Academyby Marisa Sawatphadungkij

Welcome back to the second half of the school year. We hope you can join us for these exciting fun events from the PTO:

- February 11: Pancake Breakfast - February 14: Sell Candy Grams- February 15: PTO Board Meeting- February 23: Spirit Night – location TBD- March 3: Father/Daughter Dance- March 22: General PTO Meeting- March 30: Spirit Night – location TBD

For more information: http://www.ala.my-pto.org/

Happy New Year from all of us at Athlos and WBLA


Silver Branchers By Darlene Bauhs

The Silver Branchers are an active group of seniors who gath-er for an afternoon of fun and laughter each Thursday from 1-3pm at the WB Rec. Center on Shoreline Drive. We play many games and enjoy each other’s company. All residents 55 years and older are welcome. We hope you’ll join us.

In February, a day trip is planned to the LBJ Library. In March we'll take a wildflower tour and in April, we'll visit the Colorado River Wildlife Sanctuary in Del Valle. For more infor-mation and to reserve your spot please call 512-251-9814.

American Red Cross Babysitting Training Thursday, March 16 • 1-5pmCost: $40.00, Max 10 participants/Minimum 6To provide youth who are planning to babysit with the knowl-edge and skills necessary to safely and responsibly give care for children and infants. This training will help participants to develop leadership skills; learn how to develop a babysitting business, keep themselves and others safe and help children behave; and learn about basic child care and basic first aid. The recommended age for this course is 11-15 years old. Bring lunch to the class.

Course Syllabus: •Respondtoemergenciesandillnesseswithfirstaid, rescue breathing and other appropriate care•Makedecisionsunderpressure• Communicatewithparentstolearnhouseholdrules• Recognizesafetyandhygieneissues•Manageyoungchildren• Feed,diaperandcareforinfants• Starttheirbabysittingbusiness

American Red Cross Lifeguard CertificationMon-Wed, March 13-15 • 10am-6pmKF Pool • 2106 Klattenhoff Drive • Fee: $200Looking for a great summer job or a challenging career that is in high demand? The Red Cross Lifeguarding program is the place to start. Through videos, group discussion and hands-on practice, you will learn patron rescue and surveillance skills, first aid and CPR/AED. Participants must be at least 15 years of age on the last day of training.

This course is ideal for lifeguards looking to work at a tradition-al still water pool. This course teaches professionalism, patron and facility surveillance, victim recognition, equipment-based rescues, and caring for head, neck and back injuries.

For more information please contact Katie Hutcheson at [email protected] or call the Recreation Center at 512-251-9814.

Wells Branch Garden Guild by Dianne Koehler

We are a friendly group who meets once a month to discuss gardening! We normally meet every third Saturday of the month at 10:30am for a plant/seed swap and then at 11:00am for the presentation at the Wells Branch Rec. Center, 3000 Shoreline Drive. All are welcome!

The February topic is “All Things Butterfly.” We will discuss the WB Butterfly Garden, what you can do to provide support for butterflies in your own garden and learn more about the Monarch Project.

The March meeting will feature a speaker to address the best plants for spring and summer gardening, with an emphasis on vegetables you can grow here.

In April, the Group members will have a field trip to Gabriel Valley Farms in Georgetown. Gabriel Valley produces certi-fied organic culinary herbs and vegetable plants.

www.wbna.usWBNA January 2017

MUD Board Candidates PLACE 4

Save your pipes: Tips to keep water flowing in cold weather

Spring isn’t here yet! We may be in Texas, but we’re still vulnerable to destructive win-ter weather. Here are tips to protect your water system from winter blasts.Before a freeze:•Wrapallexposedpipeslocatedoutsideorin unheated areas of your home.

•Removegardenhosesfromoutsidefaucets.Insulate the faucet with a Styrofoam cover, rags, a disposable diaper or paper.•Coverventsaroundthefoundationofyourhouse.•Knowwhereyourproperty’swatercut-offvalveis located and know how to use it.

In sub-freezing weather:• Letwaterdripslowlyfrominsidefaucetsduringa freeze.• Opencabinetdoorsundersinkswherepipesarealong outside walls.

If you’re not going to be home:• Cutoffyourwaterattheproperty’scut-offvalveand drain all outside water faucets if your house will be unoccupied for several days.• Orleaveyourhomeheatingsystemonatalowsetting, cabinet doors open, and wrap the outside faucets. •Makingtimetopreparefortheworstbeforeyourtrip is far better than returning home to find your flooring and furniture soaked from burst pipes.

Renters should contact the manager or landlord for more information on freeze precautions.

WB MUD EventsValentine’s Day Family Dance Tuesday, February 14 • 6:30-8:30pm WB Rec. Center • 3000 Shoreline DriveThis fun family event is free and open to all ages! Everyone is invited to come dance the night away on an open dance floor, to the sounds of a live band. The Wells Branch MUD will provide snacks, drinks, and roses for the ladies! Bring the family out and share the love!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Concert in the Park Friday, March 17 • 7:00-8:00pm KF Park • 2106 Klattenhoff DriveWear your green and come experience Celtic heritage with the Silver Thistle Pipes and Drums as they lead a parade through Wells Branch’s Katherine Fleischer Park.

The short parade will end at the Wells Branch Community Center courtyard where guests will continue to be entertained by the band and traditional dances. Wells Branch Community Church will provide face painting and temporary tatoos.

Dog Fair Saturday, March 18 • 10am-1pm KF Park • 2106 Klattenhoff DriveCalling all dogs! Free to all! Come and visit the many booths hosted by local veterinarians and other pet-oriented businesses. Enroll your pooch to win prizes in one of the many free and fun competitions including Best Trick, Fastest Dog, Best Dressed, Dog & Owner Look-A-Like and our prestigious Wells Branch King and Queen contest. All dogs attending the event must be must be current on their vaccinations, on a leash and under owner’s control at all times. No aggressive dogs please.

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Club by Daniel White

The DIY Club meets on the first Sunday of each month, unless otherwise noted, from 6-8pm in room #103 of the Rec. Center on Shoreline. The meetings are open to anyone and are free.

Our February meeting will move to February 12 so as not to conflict with Superbowl Sunday. Come learn how to make simple improvements to increase home security. We’ll have examples on hand of what to buy and instructions on how to install them. It should prove both fun and educational. On March 5, we’ll tackle ADA compliance and Home Aid installa-tions. We hope you’ll join us!

Want to Cut the Cable? by George Holcombe

We’re looking for neighbors who are interested in CUTTING THE CABLE, and who want to explore the best antennas, devices, apps, etc. We also would like to know if there are neighbors who have cut the cable and would like to demon-strate what they have learned and share their experi-ence. Please record your interest on Wells Branch Neighbors Google Group, or contact me at [email protected]. I will be working with other neighbors to find a meeting place and set a time.


Athlos Leadership Academy/WBLA PTO by Marisa Sawatphadungkij & Sylvia Brito

Most folks are far too busy earning money to actually “think” about money, let alone plan ahead. Regardless of age, the topic of foundational financial planning tends to fall to the bottom of the list for many of us. As more and more of us begin transitioning from the daily grind to something more interesting, everyone starts asking some basic financial ques-tions only to discover that they should have paid far more attention far sooner.

That said, here’s your chance to jump start your basic finan-cial knowledge. The Friends of the WB Library (FOL) have partnered with a variety of professionals to put together a Financial Foundational Series. The intent of the program is to host a FREE series that provides the educational building blocks for each of the key financial planning components.

There is NO cost for this series. Nothing will be sold during the classes. What you will gain is increased financial knowl-edge in areas where you may be lacking. All you have to invest is a little bit of your time and effort to attend the vari-ous sessions. Your result will be a better understanding of how the individual financial components work together to create a successful long term financial plan. The initial topics include:

Session 1 (FEB 23rd): Social Security (New Rules), younger folks should attend for future planning – or if you have an older family member who may not know about the recent changes

Session 2 (MAR 30th): General Financial Planning Topics (Tools, Tips, Resources)

Session 3: Insurance as a Financial Resource, there’s more to insurance than you think

Session 4: General Tax/IRS Strategies (property tax topics, managing deductions & more)

Session 5: Family Law/Estate Planning (what to do when and why; what happens if you don’t)

Session 6: Manage Your Information / Protect Your Identity (protect what you have worked so hard to establish)

We plan to host one session each month; the time and dates will vary based on the availability of the speakers. The ses-sions will be approximately 90 minutes and held either in the evening or on the weekend. The first two sessions are con-firmed. Please look for additional information at wbfriends.org or facebook.com/wbfol.

The program organizers are also going to canvas the commu-nity prior to each session to ensure that the information pre-sented is relevant to our residents. Look for surveys and “class prep notes” prior to each session. Come prepared to learn.

Session 1: Social Security: The new rules and how they apply to you

Thursday, Feb. 23, 6:30 – 8:00pmWB Community Center, 2106 Klattenhoff

How the new laws “change the game”•How to avoid making poor choices early in the game that •impact the overall pay outMaximize lifetime benefits•Delayed retirement credits•Key points to help manage tax impact on social security •income

Session 2: General Financial Planning Topics (Tools, Tips, Resources)

Thursday, March 30, 6:30 – 8:00pmWB Community Center, 2106 Klattenhoff

While you are executing your current plan of hoping to win the lottery, make plans to start attending this informative series of educational programs. Either way, you can’t lose if you increase your basic financial knowledge.

FOL Adult Education Program: Financial Foundational Series by Margaret McGhee-Sufke

Happy New Year, Friends!by Tracy Simon, President, Friends of WB Community Library

We have some exciting programs planned for 2017! First, we have a six-part Financial Planning Series. Please see our arti-cle below outlining the program.

A Health and Wellness series is in the works as well. Visit our website: wbfriends.org for updates.

Looking for information about our annual garage sale? We’re planning for fall and should have a date confirmed in the next newsletter.

It’s a new year and time to renew your membership! Simply visit wbfriends.org and click on the Membership tab. It’s quick and easy and your membership benefits our communi-ty by bringing speakers and programming to the Library at no individual cost to you. As an added bonus, all new members will receive a copy of our first annual Wells Branch calendar with a paid membership, a $15 value!

If you missed getting your calendar, we have a few copies available for sale. Order yours at wbfriends.org!

The FOL held it’s annual election on December 11, 2016. Madonna Johnson chose not to seek re-election to the Board. Thank you, Madonna for your service to the FOL and all the wonderful photos you’ve taken at multiple Polar Express events! Kudos to Gus Kohn for his dedication as President of the FOL for the past five years. Gus isn’t leaving the Friends, but will continue serving in a new position this year. We’re excited to have Christine Bloemsma join our team. Our new board positions are: Tracy Simon, President; Christine Bloemsma ,Vice President; Joan Mead, Treasurer; Gus Kohn, Secretary; and Doug Schwartz, Member-at-Large.

We look forward to seeing each of you at our informative programs and events throughout the year.

Be sure and “Like us” on Facebook for event updates: facebook.com/WBFOL/.


TIRED OF SITTING IN AUSTIN TRAFFIC?


It’s Girl Scout Cookie Time!!!by Emily Berver

Neighborhood Girl Scouts will be selling cookies through February 26. The much missed Lemonades and Thanks-A-Lot shortbread cookies are back along with the new S’more cookie and the new gluten-free, chocolate chip Trios. Be sure to take this opportunity to stock up on all your favorites; they freeze well!

If you are unable to enjoy cookies, please consider donating cookies to military families (most GS troops participate in this program, called “Troop to Troop”).

Cookies are still $4 per box except for the Trios, which are $5 per box. Proceeds from the sales go towards both the individ-ual Troops and Central Texas Girls Scouts and make up a sig-nificant portion of program funding. The cookie sale also helps the individual Girl Scouts learn about goal setting, deci-sion making, money management, people skills and business ethics.

This site has links to nutritional info for all the GS cookies (even the ones available in other regions): https://www.abcs-martcookies.com/2016-17-cookie-nutritional-facts

Thank you for supporting Scouting!

WB Business Spotlight by Debby Thompson

Wells Branch is home to many small businesses. If they thrive, we thrive. We continue to feature an ongoing series on our area establishments. Remember that sales tax paid within Wells Branch from your purchases benefit both the Library and the Fire Department (ESD#2). The continued success of the merchants in the district directly influence our property values. When we “Shop WB” we all benefit.

Wells Branch Remodeling has expanded! Henry Godfrey, a WB resident for the last 7 years has opened up a store front showroom at 1705 Benchmark to better serve the residents of Wells Branch. Henry comes highly recommended and has been a fixture on our WB Recommended Vendor List for sev-eral years. Visit his website at WellsBranchRemodeling.com or contact Henry directly at [email protected] or (512) 662-2194. See their ad on page 11.

Access Family Health & Wellness Practices of America joined the Wells Branch community last April. Located in the HEB strip center on WB Pkwy., you’ll find their offices at the far end, just past Goodwill. They offer complete healthcare options for the entire family and accept most insurance plans including Medicare. In addition, low cost membership plans are available as an alternative for those with high deduct-ibles or no insurance. Perfect for self-employed or small businesses, they also offer corporate plans and on-site visits. Super easy parking and friendly staff welcome you at their WB location. Visit them online at AccessFamilyHealthWPA.com or call Cyndi at 512-964-6237 for an appointment. See their ad on page 17.

KWBB Events for February & Marchby Katie Hutcheson

Sunday, February 5 • 2-4pm • Trees, Trees, Trees!WB MUD Office • 14611 Wells Port DriveJoin us for another education session at the Main Office. We will plant a few trees afterwards so wear appropriate cloth-ing--long sleeves and closed toed shoes. The topic will be Trees, Trees, Trees! Bring your questions regarding trees and we will have an arborist to answer your questions. We will also be discussing the trees that have been planted in the District and the plans for future trees. After the discussion, we’ll head out for planting.

It’s My Park Day! Saturday, March 4 • 9am-noon All ages are invited to come out and volunteer! Each year, thousands of volunteers work to improve parks and green-belts around Austin. The Wells Branch activities will focus on two areas. One group of volunteers will meet at Katherine Fleischer Park and rake cypress needles, pick up small branches, and clean litter out of the creek. A children’s activi-ty will also be held. A second group will meet at the Disc Golf Course on Owen-Tech Blvd. to pick up litter, spread mulch around trees, and establish plantings along the creek to pre-vent soil erosion. For more information, contact Brian Litke at [email protected]. Equipment and supplies will be provided along with snacks and water. Volunteers who regis-ter online at austinparks.org/volunteer/impd/ beginning in February will receive a free It’s My Park Day t-shirt.

Trails & Bicycle Lanes MeetingJust letting everyone know we haven't forgotten about the promised Trails & Bicycle Lanes meeting. It was postponed when the team leader left. They're in the final stages of inter-views for a replacement at this time and would like a few weeks to get the new department head up to speed. It looks like we're probably looking at March or April for a meeting. Details will be posted when we have a date.

Cultural Diversity Fair by Marisa Sawatphadungkij & Heather Johnson, Team Leaders Want to be a part of an exciting, fun event that enriches our community? Interested in sharing your culture with your neighbors? Join us for the next planning meeting:

Sunday, Feb. 12 • 4pm WB Rec. Center • 3000 Shoreline Dr.

Wells Branch will be hosting its first Cultural Diversity Fair this year and needs YOUR help! This is a great opportunity for you to represent the motherland of your ancestors or your country of origin and to teach folks about the world around them. Volunteer to host a booth exhibiting information, clothing, food, and entertainment from your homeland or to help out behind the scenes. Most of all, make plans to come and celebrate Wells Branch Diversity and help kick off a fami-ly fun event that can be carried on for many years to come!

Visit http://wbna.us/community/wb-cultural-diversity-fair/ for updates and to sign up to volunteer. Questions? Email [email protected]


Scouting NewsCub Scout Pack 140 by Tonya RileyPack 140 recently held its Pinewood Derby. The Scouts built some amazing cars and had a great time racing them. Our Grand Champion this year was Izaak Mora. In February we will celebrate Scouting’s birthday at our Blue and Gold Banquet. You are welcome to attend and learn more about the Cub Scout program. In March we will hold our Rain Gutter Regatta. You can join Scouts at any time of the year. For more information, go to www.pack140.org, email [email protected], or call 512-627-9741.

Pack 728 News by Shannon Best Pack 728 will hold their annual Pinewood Derby on January 28. Scouts and parents have been working on their cars. Report to State is on February 4 and Pack 728 will join WBCC on February 5 for Scout Sunday where Scouts will hold the door for parishioners and hand out church bulletins. We meet every Wednesday at 6:30pm at the Live For More Center at Bratton and Merrilltown. Contact us at: [email protected]

BSA Troop 1409 by Rich Michelson, ScoutmasterAfter helping with the luminary festival, Troop 1409 is gearing up for fun and adventure this spring. Some of the scouts are working on their hiking merit badge. They have completed short hikes and will now hike 10 miles at Ladybird Lake and 20 miles at Lake Georgetown. We are also planning on attending Camporee and Report to State. The next camping trip will be our annual Webelos Invitational Campout, where the boys team up with area cub scouts to teach them many of the skills they’ll need as Boy Scouts.

We always welcome new youth between the ages of 11 to 18, contact [email protected] for more informa-tion or visit our website at http://www.troop1409.com/ or our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Troop1409/

BSA Venture Crew 1409 by Jill Douglass, AdvisorIn January several new members completed their Personal Safety Awareness training. This important course covers sui-cide prevention, date rape, internet safety, and sexual harass-ment. These mature topics are difficult to talk about, but also provide the information our youth need to protect them-selves in high school and college. Beyond safety training, the kids are preparing for our two big upcoming events, Gulf Wars in Mississippi during spring break, and hiking Four Pass Loop in Colorado during the summer. For our summer trip, the crew has begun training hikes at Hill of Life and has a 3 day backpacking trip around Lake Georgetown scheduled in February. Education for this trip includes Leave No Trace training, bear(!!) safety, and special considerations regarding hiking at high altitudes. Finally, the crew has developed a monthly program “Crew 1409 Eats” in which they gather at a local eatery or someone’s home to eat and socialize.

Venturing is a youth development program for young men and women who are 14 – 20 years of age. Contact Jill Douglass (512-293-9022 / [email protected]) for questions about the Crew.


Support your Neighborhood Association by joining the WBNA and continue to make Wells Branch great!

Here is my check (made out to WBNA) for $20 annual dues for 2017I am: _____ renewing my membership _____a new member

Name(s)_______________________________________ E-mail:_________________________

Address:________________________________________ Phone:______________________

I/we want to help with: ____ Newsletter Delivery ____ Crime Watch ____ July 4th

____ Easter Egg Hunt ____ Nat’l Night Out ____ Luminary Fest

MAIL TO: WBNA Membership, 2104 Klattenhoff, Austin, TX. 78728

January 2017

2/5, 2-4pm: KWBB Volunteer Day • Trees! • WB Annex2/11, 8am-5pm: Bulk Trash Day for In-District MUD Residents • WB Mtc. 2/12, 6pm: DIY Club • Simple Safety Improvements • WBRC2/14, 6pm: Photo Club • WBRC2/14, 6:30-8:30pm: Valentine’s Day Family Dance • WBRC2/18, 11am: Garden Guild • All Things Butterfly • WBRC2/19, 1-8pm: Board Games Day • WBRC2/19, 6pm: Connally HS Project Grad Fundraiser • See page 132/23, 6pm: WBNA Officer Elections • WBCC2/23, 6:30pm: FOL Financial Series • Social Security • WBCC3/4, 9am-noon: It’s My Park Day! & KWBB Volunteer Day (WB MUD) • KF Park & Disc Golf Course 3/5, 10am-5pm: WB Kite Fest • See page 43/5, 6pm: DIY Club • Home Aid Installations • WBRC 3/11, 8am-5pm: Bulk Trash Day for In-District MUD Residents • WB Mtc.3/13: Winter Wastewater Averaging ENDS!3/13-3/17: Spring Break • PfISD & RRISD • No School3/14, 6pm: Photo Club • WBRC3/17, 7pm: St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Concert • KF Park3/18, 10am-1pm: Dog Fair • KF Park3/18, 11am: Garden Guild • Spring & Summer Gardening • WBRC3/30, 6:30pm: FOL Financial Series • Financial Planning • WBCC

Community Calendar

OFFICE USE ONLYDt. Rec'd:_________

Check#:__________

Recurring -Silver Branchers Thursdays, 1-3pm WBRCWB Bird Walks - See page 7Running Club - Tues & Thurs, 5:45-6:45am, KF GazeboWalking Club - Tues & Thurs, 7am, KF PoolWB MUD - 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 6pm, WBCCCalendar Legend : MP=Mills Pond; WBCC=CommunityCenteronKlattenhoff;WBCL=WB Comm. Library; WBRC=Rec. Center on ShorelineKF=KatherineFleischerParkonKlattenhoff WBMtc=WB Maintenance 13905 Thermal Dr.

Your Wells Branch Neighbor & Specialist! TRUSTED 5-STAR REVIEW AVERAGE 14 YRS EXPERIENCE

Tammy DeWitt Le, Realtor® Wells Branch Resident since 1999

(512) 773-3214 [email protected]

WWW.FAMILYPAIR.COM

1000-1999 sq ft 56 homes sold Avg days on market: 11 Avg sq ft: 1575 Avg sold price/sq ft: $154.76 Avg sold price: $241,326

WB SOLD STATS FOR LAST 6 MONTHS* 2000-2999 sq ft 23 homes sold Avg days on market: 27 Avg sq ft: 2338 Avg sold price/sq ft: $119.05 Avg sold price: $275,972

2016 CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL: “Tammy knows Wells Branch really well which for us was just what we needed to get our home sold! She worked her tail off marketing...Great experience!” - James Russell

*MLS data for Wells Branch homes (all subdivisions) sold 7/1/16-12/31/16, deemed reliable not guaranteed

Help shape YOUR Community! Get involved!2016 saw another year of continued growth in our neighborhood association. Our community needs your participation and involvement. Sure, we need your membership, but more than that, we need YOU! Please consider joining the WBNA and volun-teering your time and talents. Our annual election is February 23, 6pm at the Community Center. We'll host a planning meeting in March. Watch for updates on wbna.us, our Facebook page and the Google Group. It's going to be a great year! Come be a part of it!

Building Community Together

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