News

From left, bacterial scorch on red oak, Tar spot on live oak, Tubakia leaf spot on red oak.

From left, bacterial scorch on red oak, Tar spot on live oak, Tubakia leaf spot on red oak.

Wilco Extension Office: Williamson County oaks are facing a growing health crisis

By Gary PastushokOaks are a signature part of our Williamson County landscape, adding shade and character to our environment. The diversity of oak tree species that exist here is amazing. In just a short few years, oak diseases have become an increasing concern to Wilco homeowners.
Jarrell Library Director Susan Gregurek lists the available supplies for the students to make their homecoming mums at the Jarrell Library and Resource Center’s Mum-making party, September 10.  Photo by Nalani Nuylan.

Jarrell Library Director Susan Gregurek lists the available supplies for the students to make their homecoming mums at the Jarrell Library and Resource Center’s Mum-making party, September 10. Photo by Nalani Nuylan.

Mum’s the word: Homecoming flower arrangements are a Southern tradition

As the old joke goes, everything is bigger – and better – in Texas, especially when it comes to mums, an elaborate floral decoration usually made with a fake chrysanthemum given during a high school’s homecoming football game.
A new mural has been painted on the downtown Georgetown parking garage, which should open by the end of this year. (Sun Archive)

A new mural has been painted on the downtown Georgetown parking garage, which should open by the end of this year. (Sun Archive)

How much does the new parking garage art cost?

Question: How much does the mural on the new downtown parking garage cost? What about the new, nearby longhorn sculpture? Answer: According to Georgetown Communication Manager Keith Hutchinson, the new mural being painted on the northside exterior of the garage will cost $45,000.

Residents receive road updates in District 5 town hall

District 5 Council Member Kevin Pitts held a town hall meeting September 30, where he, County Judge Steve Snell and Georgetown City Manager David Morgan spoke about this year’s city budget, Georgetown’s water territory sales, county updates and the Texas Legislative session.

Remember loved ones with Día de los Muertos celebrations

The Día de los Muertos celebration, seen throughout Latin America and the U.S., honors those who have passed before us. Combining pre-Colombian and Catholic tradition, the event sees cemeteries cleaned and ofrendas made to honor deceased family members.
Gina Marie, as Abuela Claudia, and Daniel Ponce, playing Usnavi, are pictured in a scene from the Thursday, October 2, 2025 dress rehearsal for “In the Heights,” playing on the Palace Springer Stage through November 2nd.  Photo by Andy Sharp.

Gina Marie, as Abuela Claudia, and Daniel Ponce, playing Usnavi, are pictured in a scene from the Thursday, October 2, 2025 dress rehearsal for “In the Heights,” playing on the Palace Springer Stage through November 2nd. Photo by Andy Sharp.

Palace Theatre performance reaches new heights

In the Heights opened at the Palace Theatre on October 3 to the buzz of a highly enthusiastic full house.The popular musical opened on Broadway in 2008. It was nominated for 13 Tony Awards and won four, including Best Musical. A film adaptation was released in June 2021.

Evan Haley is Georgetown troop’s 216th Eagle Scout

By Calvin GrayEvan Haley, a 16-year-old junior at The Gateway College Preparatory School, completed his Eagle Scout Board of Review at Christ Lutheran Church on September 22. He is Troop 405’s 216th Eagle Scout.
Customer Care Director Seth Gipson, left, and District 7 Councilman Ben Stewart put in a request on the askGTX app about an uneven sidewalk. (Photo by Kaitlyn Wilkes)

Customer Care Director Seth Gipson, left, and District 7 Councilman Ben Stewart put in a request on the askGTX app about an uneven sidewalk. (Photo by Kaitlyn Wilkes)

Georgetown learns of ‘pain points’ for residents

Since Georgetown launched its 311-style system, askGTX, in May, the city has received about 2,400 support tickets on issues such as flickering lights, uneven sidewalks, roadkill and intersection improvements. Traffic complaints and signal issues are among the most common submissions.
I VOTED Director Tyler Mann and wife/co-producer Rachel DeRouen accept an award at the GTX Film Festival.

I VOTED Director Tyler Mann and wife/co-producer Rachel DeRouen accept an award at the GTX Film Festival.

GTX Film Festival delights in 2025

The 2025 annual GTX Film Festival once again exceeded my high expectations. On September 27, an engaged audience viewed fresh, diverse, and impactful films while dedicated filmmakers had opportunities for robust networking.