All posts by Debby Thompson

Alive @ 25

Neighborhood News, Neighborhood Safety

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for 15 through
24-year-olds. – National Transportation Safety Board

“Alive at 25” is a video-based 4.5 – hour class taught by law enforcement and first responders. Developed by the National Safety Council, the program focuses on good decision-making while the driver or passenger in a motor vehicle with the goal of empowering young drivers to adopt safer driving habits and reduce injury and death among Texas’ youth.  In comparison to their peer programs graduates have experienced an over 72% decrease in crash fatalities.  “Alive @ 25” teaches young drivers important decision-making skills for staying safe behind the wheel. Continue reading Alive @ 25 →

“Mama” Goose Returns

Neighborhood News

As many of you know the female goose has been absent for the last few weeks.  About three weeks ago, she became entangled in fishing line and caught a lure in one of her legs.  This developed into a terrible infection and she was near death when the MUD Staff caught her.  Thanks so much –  Keith Nett, Ryan Davino & Andy Rankine for taking her in to Wildlife Rescue where she was able to receive the care she needed.

In the first picture, Keith and another staff member carry her to the pond for release.  As soon as they put the crate down, she started honking.  The “boys” were out on the pond and they whirled around swimming as fast as they could, honking and flapping their wings all the way.  There’s one really sweet picture where the gander in the center leans over and nuzzles the female’s neck.  They were so glad to see her!  Click on the picture to enlarge.

Wildlife Rescue is a non-profit organization.  The vets and volunteers cared for our goose for three weeks until she was fully recovered.  MUD Office Staff collected $45 to donate towards her care.  If you would like to send in a contribution, or thank them for taking such good care of her, their address is: Wildlife Rescue, P.O. Box 806, Austin, TX 78767-0806

Thanksgiving Potluck 5-7pm, THIS Saturday, November 20, Dedication Grove Ceremony 4pm

Neighborhood News, Past Events

ALL Wells Branch neighbors are invited to come together for the annual Thanksgiving Potluck Dinner to be held in the Recreation Center on Shoreline Drive this year from 5-7pm.   Everyone should bring a side dish or dessert to serve 10 and the recipe  of the dish so that it can be included in the Wells Branch Homestead Cookbook.  The turkey, ham, dressing, potatoes, bread, and beverages will be provided by the WB MUD. Continue reading Thanksgiving Potluck 5-7pm, THIS Saturday, November 20, Dedication Grove Ceremony 4pm →

Youth Fowl Shot Contest

Neighborhood News

Wells Branch youth are invited to test their basketball skills and maybe win a turkey to take home for Thanksgiving starting at 6p.m. in the Wells Branch MUD Recreation Center. Participants accumulate points by competing in a variety of basketball activities (Free Throw, H.O.R.S.E., 3pt Around the World, and possibly Knockout). Age groups will be split into three groups: 8-10, 11-13, and 14-17. Grand-prize winners from each age group will receive a turkey. Participants must have a valid recreation tag to enter the gym and compete in the contest. Registration is free and will begin early November in the Rec. Center.

Fire Department Food Drive

Neighborhood News

ESD #2 will be hosting a food drive beginning November 15 and running through December 20.  Please bring canned goods and non-perishables by the fire station at 15300 Bratton Lane.  All proceeds will be donated to Immanuel Lutheran Church Food Bank, which serves the area.

If you have any questions, please contact Lt. Tim Wallace at 512.251.2801 ext. 4530 or twallace@pflugervillefire.com

Homestead Cookbook Update

Neighborhood News

Thanks to all of you who’ve contributed your recipes to the Wells Branch Homestead Cookbook.  While they’ve had a great response, they need more recipes.  Delivery for the Cookbook is planned for the Homestead Festival in April.

Please send your recipes to wbrecipes@gmail.com or drop them by the MUD Office, the Rec. Center on Shoreline or bring them to the Thanksgiving Potluck!  Recipes should include your name and how long you’ve lived in Wells Branch as well as any interesting facts or stories surrounding the recipe, such as where it came from, special occasions you might use it or family traditions associated with it.

“Don’t Become a Victim”

Past Events

The WBNA will be hosting a Personal Safety Seminar this Saturday from 9am-1pm at the Community Center to be taught by Travis County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Craig Smith and Senior Deputy Kim Orts.  For those of you who attended the meeting on October 21, this is an extended version with live demonstrations.

1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men will become the victim of a violent crime.    Please join us for this Personal Safety Seminar to learn how some of us inadvertently make ourselves easy targets and ways to make ourselves less likely to be targeted by a criminal.  Learn the mind-set of a predator.  Other topics include personal weapons, cell phones and social networking sites.  There will be live demonstrations.

We will be serving donuts & coffee in the morning and pizza at lunch.  Bring your questions for Sgt. Smith!  We hope you’ll join us!!!!