🌱 Disaster Declaration Declared + How To Volunteer And Help Neighbors

Good morning, Round Rock! Progress is being made in clearing tree limbs, repairing power line poles, and more as a result of the February 2023 freeze. I hope you all are staying warm and if you find yourself without power or heat, stay tuned as I list some resources that can help your situation! Here's what you need to know about what's happening in town, including news and updates on:

• Disaster declaration to get the process moving
• Video shows exactly what not to do when encountering a fallen power line.
• How you can request help with storm aftermath cleanup.
• Sign up to be a volunteer and help neighbors in need of debris cleanup.

But first, today's weather:

Clouds breaking for some sun. High: 59 Low: 43.

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Here are the top stories in Round Rock today:

1. Oncor reported that Round Rock, along with other Williamson County cities, "received some of the heaviest ice accumulation causing significant damage to power lines and poles." Judge Bill Gravell issued a disaster declaration on Jan. 31 for all of Williamson County in order to "activate the recovery and rehabilitation steps outlined in that county's Emergency Management Plan." Austin and Travis counties are following suit and filing their own disaster declarations to get debris cleared and damages assessed. Visit Austin American-Statesman for more information.
2. A vehicle attempts to drive underneath a fallen power line in this video. Quickly, the driver reverses back onto the shoulder when attempts to drive under it appear to be too dangerous. Oncor says, "Power lines are not insulated. Stay away for safety." The energy company also notes that if you do encounter downed power lines, leave the area right away and call 911. Visit KCENTV for more on this story.
3. Winter freeze aftermath: When the cleanup process seems like there's no end to it, organizations and volunteers will help out. Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan "mentioned that residents should check in on their neighbors and help when they are able to. He also provided information regarding how to volunteer or request assistance on the City of Round Rock's website." The Austin Disaster Relief Network is offering help via church networks that can be dispatched to you. Round Rock residents can submit requests to ADRN for assistance. Visit KVUE for more information.
4. Did you know that Round Rock has a Community and Neighborhood Services department? "The Department is working to facilitate connections so volunteers can assist fellow Round Rock residents who are unable to clear tree limbs from their property due to being elderly, disabled, recent surgery, illness or other special circumstances." If you want to help your neighbors, visit the City of Round Rock page to submit your information and get on the volunteer list.

Today in Round Rock:

• Epic Referral Group Monthly In-Person Breakfast at Kerbey Lane Cafe (9 a.m.)
• A Crash Course for the Motorcyclist at Central Texas Harley Davidson (9:30 a.m.)
• Round Rock Farmers Market at University Oaks Center Parking Lot (10 a.m.)
• Royal Ball – Parent Child Dance at Meridian World School (4:30 p.m.)
• "Romeo and Juliet" at Sam Bass Theatre (7:30 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Story update: Exact address of shots fired near Teravista: "At approximately 6:25 p.m. Thursday, Officers responded to a report of shots fired in the 400-block of Teravista Pkwy." No further details are available at this time. (Round Rock Police Department Facebook)
• Round Rock Police warn of potential tree limb disposal scammers! "🌳Beware of Contractor Scams." An officer gives tips on how to screen for possible scams: Ask for license or insurance of businesses approaching you, do not agree work with people who try to pressure you on the spot to get a service right then and there, do not pay for a service up front, check with the Better Business Bureau, ask for a legitimized contract of work before signing or paying for anything. (Round Rock Police Department Facebook)
• Children's Autism Center offers informational meeting: "Join us at our Round Rock location for an info session by Ben Seifert going over various government programs offered for individuals with ASD & the process! Call or email ahead of time to reserve your spot!" (Children's Autism Center Facebook)
• Safe ways for restaurants to reopen: "Restaurants and Retail food outlets - interruptions to power and water supply guidance for safe reopening:"
  (Williamson County and Cities Health District Facebook)

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Events:

• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (February 8)
• Crossing Over With Psychic Medium John Edward (Live)! (February 11)
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Alrighty, you're all good for today! See you all tomorrow for another update.

— Elaine Thompson

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Round Rock Patch newsletter? Contact me at WritingWithElaine@gmail.com