Georgetown View • January 2026

HEALTH & WELLNESS OUTDOOR LIVING TEXAS SIT-REP Georgetown Wellness Fair Backyard Nature Comeback The "Civil Discourse" Mission JANUARY 2026

Imagine Your Wedding Day

STEP INSIDE HIGHPOINTE ESTATE FOR A FULLY STAGED CELEBRATION— AND SEE YOUR DREAM WEDDING COME TO LIFE BEFORE YOUR PLANNING BEGINS

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WHO WE ARE

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n an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, the Georgetown View constantly strives to be an eager beacon of positivity and unity. Far more than just a lifestyle magazine, our publishers and staff are committed to creating a means of getting to know what makes our community thrive: its people and their impact.

Since its inception, the Georgetown View has not only reported on the great stories and people in our city but also taken pride in actively contributing to its enrichment.

Through donations exceeding $60,000 in advertising, we have extended our support beyond the printed page to organizations that further amplify the voices of those who work tirelessly to make a difference, ensuring their missions reach as many eyes and hearts as possible.

But we are also good at doing what we do–showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like ROCK, Georgetown ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to personally engage and participate in the missions of these community pillars.

In every story, from first responders and veterans to the latest city events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In addition to these, this "Giving Thanks and Giving Back" issue shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts, reminding us of the power of community support and the importance of gratitude.

In short, we believe the Georgetown View is more than a magazine; it is a vital part of the community’s fabric that spotlights advocacy, education, and celebration. We hope you will agree it stands as a testament to what we can all achieve when we choose to focus on the positive and the possible.

PUBLISHER Cathy Payne • cathy@georgetownview.com SENIOR WRITERS / CONTENT EDITORS Ann Marie Kennon • Charlotte Kovalchuk CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton • Steve Fought • Thomas Graham CONTENT MANAGER Camy Reynolds GRAPHIC DESIGN Sandra Evans • Ann Marie Kennon Marilee Goldoni BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Jesse Payne WEBMASTER Ann Marie Kennon ADVERTISING 512.746.4545 info@georgetownview.com Georgetown View is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

Copyright © 2026 All rights reserved.

Georgetown View is mailed monthly via USPS to homes and businesses in Georgetown, TX zip codes.

Mail may be sent to: Georgetown View P.O. Box 203 • Jarrell, TX 76537 SCAN THE CODE FOR E-SUBSCRIPTION AND NEVER MISS AN ISSUE.

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CONTENTS

A SEASON TO RESET

Winter has a way of slowing things down just enough to help us see more clearly. This issue leans into that pause—offering thoughtful stories and practical inspiration to help you start the year with purpose. Inside, you’ll find fresh perspectives on health and wellness, ideas for making the most of outdoor living even in cooler months, and home and garden features designed to set the foundation for the seasons ahead. Whether you’re refining routines, planning projects, or simply gathering ideas, this winter issue is meant to meet you where you are and help you move forward—steadily, thoughtfully, and well.

14 JANUARY FEATURES 6 / HIGHPOINTE ESTATE 10 / GEORGETOWN'S HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR 14 / BACKYARD NATURE COMEBACK 18 / PSYCHOLOGY OF A PEACEFUL HOME 22 / COGNITIVE FRESH START EFFECT

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26 / THE MICRO HABITS METHOD

29 / ADVERTORIAL ∙ SARAH MOORE FOR JUDGE

35 / ADVERTORIAL ∙ RYAN BOWNDS FOR JUDGE

COLUMNS 32 / TEXAS SIT-REP • HIGHER EDUCATION, PT. 2 38 / KIDS & EDUCATION • MANAGING SOCIAL MEDIA

Sponsored by InnerSpace Cavern

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41 / SHELTER STORIES • REUNION STATIONS

Sponsored by Countryside Pet Resort

42 / THRIVING AFTER 55 • NEW YEAR VENTURES 45 / WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"? • TEXAS HOLD 'EM 48 / POPPY TALKS • CABIN FEVER SEASON

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ASK A PRO • FEATURED PROFESSIONALS Meet our Pros — professionals, business owners, and subject matter experts from leading local companies who share their knowledge and expertise to bring readers practical advice, how-to tips, best practices, and current and emerging trends.

To learn more about becoming a Featured Professional, contact info@georgetownview.com or 512-746-4545.

Aqua-Tots Swim School Round Rock The largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction dedicated to teaching water safety through our proven curriculum.

Aqua-Tots.com/Round-Rock 512-336-8687

Inner Space Cavern One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round.

InnerSpaceCavern.com 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown

Prime Wellness and Longevity Personalized hormone therapy, weight loss, and wellness plans to help clients optimize health, boost energy, and feel their absolute best.

PrimeWellnessand Longevity.com 512-240-4456

Doleva Elite Tree Certified Arborists to care for your trees! Our large equipment makes jobs efficient and economic, and prevents damage to lawn or property.

Serving Georgetown since 2009.

DolevaEliteTree.com 512-943-8733

Family owned since 1939.

Roofing professionals specializing in full-service roof repair, installation, and replacement.

DTCTexas.com 512-887-5091

HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579

Keller Commercial & Home Services Experts specializing in maintenance, enhancement, and design. Armed with cutting-edge tools and programs — driving rapid growth in architectural landscaping.

KellerServicesTX.com 512-930-4769

Sky & Co. Jewelry Handcrafted elegance meets modern meaning.

Sky & Co Jewelry creates minimalist pieces with lasting impact—designed to celebrate individuality, intention, and the stories you wear.

SkyCoJewelry.com 512-254-9337

Hall's Roofing & Sheet Metal, LLC

DTC Air Conditioning DTC provides advanced HVAC solutions with Carrier® factory-authorized service, expert technicians, and a commitment to innovation, training, and 100% customer satisfaction.

Moore Liberty Buildings Chad & Amanda Moore Thousands of structures built since 2015.

MooreLibertyBuildings.com 512-548-6474

The Wesleyan Providing a new, bountiful experience of aging full of purpose, passion, and possibility for more than 50 years.

TheWesleyan.org

NextGen Academy

Empowering students with cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods to foster creativity, critical thinking, and future readiness.

NextGenAcademy.school 13915 US 183 Austin, TX 78717

Wild Birds Unlimited Expert advice, quality seed, and feeders. Let us provide joy to you and your backyard birds. We bring people and nature together and do it with excellence.

GeorgetownTX.wbu.com (512) 763-1081

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COVER FEATURE

A DV ERTO R IA L • p h otos c ont r i b u te d by D aw s on Cla r k

Imagine We the

The HighPointe Estate "Imagine Wedding Experience" allows newly engaged couples the opportunity to envision their own dream wedding day by attending an immersive wedding celebration with the venue staged and decorated for a beautiful dream wedding. the time of year when many It’scouples are moving from the utter

excitement of a new engagement to be married to the daunting task of planning a successful wedding celebration.

For many, finding that perfect venue, selecting all the best vendors, planning floral and decor, and other important tasks can be overwhelming.

The HighPointe Estate “Imagine Wedding Experience” allows engaged couples the opportunity to envision their own dream wedding day while attending a staged wedding celebration with the venue set up and decorated for a beautiful dream wedding.

From arrival to ceremony to cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing, the “Imagine Wedding Experience” is intended to expose couples to HighPointe Estate’s incredible facilities as well as the excellent service offered by the venue and their amazing team of vendors.

“Wedding venues have done open houses for years,” says owner Dawson Clark. “But this event is intentionally planned to offer a personal experience well beyond a traditional open house.”

Those in attendance will have an opportunity to interact primarily with those vendors that partner with HighPointe Estate’s All-Inclusive Package.

“Almost 70 percent of couples married at HighPointe Estate take advantage of the convenience of our optional all-inclusive program,” says Clark. “In the package, clients benefit from a team of vendors who work together to deliver dream weddings at HighPointe.”

Tailored for brides, couples, and families with busy schedules, this package provides the extra support needed to seamlessly pull everything together.

This event is primarily intended for newly engaged couples, and their guests, who have not yet booked a venue.

HighPointe Estate expects hundreds of guests, all receiving a glimpse into the venue’s charm and functionality. Couples who book within 14 days of the event will also enjoy discounts on select rental upgrades, making this event a prime opportunity to finalize key aspects of their wedding in one afternoon.

Participating vendors include: Ame Soeur Events Day of Lily Events Calliope Events Riley Lou Events Sterling Events Catering by Mopsie Chuy's Lily Grace Catering Morgan Pearl Cakes Cakes by Kathy Premier Austin DJs Addison Studios Tyler Schmitt Photography I Pronounce You

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COVER FEATURE

dding Experience

Nearly 40 percent of wedding engagements happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day. December is peak engagement season, with Christmas Eve topping the list of proposal dates.

By January, newly engaged couples are ready to move from celebration to planning— making this the ideal moment to explore options, gather inspiration, and start building the wedding they’ve been dreaming about.

IMAGINE WEDDING EXPERIENCE SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2026 FREE ADMISSION 3PM to 6PM 5555 County Road 258, Liberty Hill

SCAN THE CODE TO RSVP

or visit HighPointeEstate.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon • p h otos c ou rte s y Ch r i s t y La ne

Refresh. Reset.

Re-imagine Your Wellness.

GEORGETOWN'S HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO Sunday, February 1 10:30am - 4:30pm $5 / person • $10 / family Georgetown Community Center

THIS SEASON'S PREMIER HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPERIENCE

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hen winter settles in and routines start to feel stale, there’s something energizing about stepping into a space designed to reset your body, mind, and daily habits. That’s exactly what the Georgetown's Health & Wellness Expo aims to deliver this season—bringing together a carefully curated mix of local wellness resources, practitioners, and techniques in one welcoming, hands-on event.

Created by Christy Lane, the expo has quickly become one of Georgetown’s most anticipated new gatherings— so quickly, in fact, that vendor spots filled fast. Christy says that momentum was no accident. The expo is intentionally starting small, with a low booth price that makes participation realistic for Georgetown’s “hidden gems”— the independent studios, practitioners, and wellness entrepreneurs who don’t always have the budget to show up at large-scale expos. "We sold out quickly and even have a waiting list," Christy says. "We're pleased to have so many local vendors who are very passionate about what they do and happy to serve our own community."

That affordability has a direct payoff for attendees: a wider variety of booths, more discovery, and a better

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chance of finding something that genuinely fits your life.

Instead of seeing the same large brands repeated across event after event, visitors can explore an unusually diverse lineup of techniques and services—many offered by people who are deeply passionate and, in some cases, exhibiting for the very first time.

Natural Approaches, Real-World Solutions

More than just a vendor fair, Georgetown's Health & Wellness Expo is built to be interactive, approachable, and genuinely useful. Think of it like a sampler platter for your well-being: you can ask questions, try something new, get a feel for different approaches, and walk away with practical next steps that don’t require a major commitment on the spot.

At the heart of Christy's vision is a clear distinction: this isn’t a parade of quick fixes or the latest fad diets. The focus is on natural remedies, evidence-informed alternatives, and lifestyle adjustments—the slow-and-steady kind of wellness that tends to last. Whether you’re trying

HEALTH & WELLNESS

A space to encourage happiness, healthier living, and well-being — wherever you are on your journey. ~Christy Lane to reduce stress, build strength, improve sleep, support emotional well-being, or simply feel better in your own skin, the expo offers options that emphasize consistency over hype.

That whole-person approach is what makes the event appealing across ages and stages of life. For families, it’s an easy way to explore wellness options together in a low-pressure environment. For busy professionals, it’s a one-stop opportunity to connect with providers who specialize in sustainable routines. For retirees, it’s a fresh way to learn about aging well and staying active. And for wellness-curious beginners, it’s a friendly entry point—no intimidating fitness culture, no hard sells, and no judgment.

Georgetown’s Hidden Gems

The exhibitor mix reflects that philosophy. Besides vendors, visitors will enjoy small demos of yoga and dance plus frequency-based wellness modalities such as singing bowls, tuning forks, and vibration-focused practices. If you’ve seen interest rising around “frequency therapy” and wondered what it actually looks like in real life, this is the kind of environment where you can observe it, ask questions, and decide for yourself—without the weird tangents some pop-up events can drift into.

Throughout the day, attendees can expect moments designed to keep the atmosphere upbeat and calm—like periodic sound or frequency elements that help create a relaxed environment rather than a loud, chaotic trade-show feel. Dare to Dance is a mobile social dance business serving all ages at schools, homes, and events.

They will offer fun mini dance lessons every 30 minutes, featuring popular party dances. Dare to Dance is passionate about how dancing benefits people of all ages physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.

There will be 35 exhibitors; some offering grounded, natural approaches—think red light therapy, breathwork and stress relief, holistic and preventive resources, recovery and mobility support, and local businesses helping people create healthier day-to-day habits.

An example of some of the exhibitors include Novita, an international company that has redefined wellness with the Hybrid Spa Concept, blending the day spa experience with regenerative therapies, Maintaining the Machine, a holistic wellness studio emphasizing a body-positive mindset with sustainable habits, and Clean Eatz, finally fast food that is good for you, offering fresh made balanced meals, that are affordable and ready in minutes.

If you’ve been looking for a reason to recommit to your health, discover Georgetown’s wellness “hidden gems,” and explore techniques you may not even know existed, the Georgetown Health & Wellness Expo offers a warm, inspiring place to start.

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HOME & GARDEN

THE BACKYARD NATURE COMEBACK Turning Your Yard Into a Micro-Habitat

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How simple, low-maintenance choices can invite butterflies, hummingbirds, songbirds, native bees, and even owls back into your outdoor space.

here’s a quiet movement happening in backyards across Central Texas—one built not on elaborate landscaping or hours of weekly upkeep, but on small, intentional choices that bring nature closer to home. Residents are discovering that with just a few thoughtful additions, an ordinary yard can become a micro-habitat: a welcoming refuge for the pollinators, birds, and wildlife that once defined the Texas landscape.

And the best part? You don’t need a green thumb or a large property to make it happen. According to local master naturalists, even a handful of native plants or a small patch of habitat can help restore ecological balance in ways that benefit both the environment and your own enjoyment of your outdoor space.

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WHY MICRO-HABITATS MATTER

THE POWER OF NATIVE PLANTS

Many homeowners assume their yard is too small to make an impact— but that’s not how nature works. Pollinators like butterflies and native bees navigate using clusters of habitat spread across neighborhoods. Songbirds rely on pockets of shelter and food sources scattered from yard to yard. Even owls are drawn to areas where insects, small mammals, and safe nesting spots coexist.

The heart of any micro-habitat is native vegetation. These plants evolved with Texas wildlife, which means they offer the exact nutrition and shelter local species need—something non-native landscaping simply can’t replicate.

“When one homeowner makes a simple change, it becomes part of a larger patchwork that supports wildlife across an entire community,” says one local master naturalist who has helped residents transform their landscapes. “You don’t need acres. You just need intention.”

Turk’s cap for hummingbirds

A few standout native plants that thrive in Williamson County include: Milkweed for monarch butterflies

Flame acanthus for bees and butterflies Cedar elm and live oak for songbirds seeking shade and shelter Golden groundsel and black-eyed Susan for color and pollinators

HOME & GARDEN The beauty of these plants isn’t just ecological—it’s practical. Native species are drought-tolerant, heat-adapted, and require far less watering and maintenance than traditional landscaping plants.

BRINGING WILDLIFE IN WITHOUT THE WORK One of the biggest misconceptions about wildlife-friendly yards is that they are time-consuming. In reality, micro-habitats are often lower maintenance than manicured lawns.

Here are some naturalist-approved methods that add life without adding labor.

Replace small lawn areas with native groundcover to reduce mowing.

Add a shallow water source, such as a birdbath or small bubbler fountain. Running water dramatically increases visits from birds.

Leave a small brush pile in a discreet corner—it becomes instant shelter for songbirds, lizards, and beneficial insects.

Install a simple owl box to encourage barn owls, which naturally control rodent populations.

Use mulch generously, which helps soil retain moisture and reduces weeding.

You can start with just one or two elements and expand over time as your yard becomes more alive.

10 Easy Ways to Start a Micro-Habitat

A micro-habitat isn’t just good for the environment—it makes your outdoor space more vibrant and enjoyable. Morning coffee becomes a front-row seat to hummingbirds darting between blossoms. Dusk brings the soft hooting of an owl settling in. Butterflies drift through the yard on warm afternoons. Every visit becomes a reminder that nature is still all around us, waiting for an invitation.

And in a community like Georgetown, where the landscape is changing quickly, these small refuges matter more than ever.

“This is something anyone can do,” the naturalists emphasize.

“Start small. Watch your yard come alive. You’ll be surprised how much joy it brings.”

High Impact • Low Maintenance Wildlife Approved

BUTTERFLIES, HUMMINGBIRDS & BEYOND

Plant three natives. Start small with proven Central Texas

Cedar elm, kidneywood, and

Butterflies and hummingbirds are often the first visitors to appear in a micro-habitat because they are drawn to bright blooms and nectar-rich plants. Monarchs pass through Georgetown along their migration route, making milkweed a powerful addition for supporting their journey.

favorites like Turk’s cap, milk-

evergreen sumac offer food,

weed, or flame acanthus.

shade, and nesting cover.

Add a native tree or shrub.

Add a shallow water source. A Keep a patch of bare soil. simple birdbath or shallow dish

Many native bees nest un-

attracts birds, butterflies, and

derground and need small,

bees within days.

undisturbed spots of soil.

Native bees—unlike honeybees—are gentle, solitary pollinators that rarely sting. They thrive in yards with flowering natives and small patches of bare soil.

Create a “no-mow corner.” Let

Create a discreet brush pile. A

one small section of lawn grow

small pile of sticks or trimmings

naturally to give insects and

becomes instant shelter for

pollinators a safe haven.

songbirds and lizards.

Songbirds and warblers show up when plants provide berries, cover, and insects.

Even owls will make a home nearby if conditions feel right.

Install a hummingbird-friendly

“You’ll be amazed at how quickly wildlife responds,” says another master naturalist.

“Sometimes within days of adding the right plant or water source, you’ll start seeing new species you’ve never noticed before.”

Place a simple owl box. Barn

bloom. Red, tubular flowers

owls help control rodents natu-

such as salvia or Turk’s cap are

rally—no chemicals needed.

irresistible to hummingbirds.

Choose mulch over manicur-

Leave a few leaves. A thin lay-

ing. Mulch protects the soil,

er of leaf litter provides habitat

retains water, and reduces your

for butterflies, fireflies, and

weeding workload.

ground-dwelling insects.

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WELLNESS AT HOME

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

The Psychology of a Peaceful Home HOW SUBTLE CHANGES IN COLOR, LAYOUT, AND LIGHT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A PLACE THAT TRULY RESTORES YOU Walk into a peaceful home and you feel it immediately—a sense of calm that settles over you like an exhale. Walk into a cluttered or overstimulating space, and your body reacts just as quickly, though not in the way you’d like. While we often think of home improvement in terms of paint colors or furniture styles, the truth is that much of what makes a home feel good is rooted in psychology.

COLOR AND MOOD

LIGHTING THAT SUPPORTS YOUR LIFE

Soft, muted tones bring down the heart rate. Warm neutrals offer comfort. Blues and greens encourage relaxation.

Bold colors have their place too, but in large doses they can energize the brain—sometimes too much for everyday living spaces.

Cool light energizes. Warm light soothes. Natural light enhances mood and helps regulate sleep. A peaceful home blends all three, with dimmable options to match the time of day.

THE WEIGHT OF VISUAL NOISE Every item on a countertop, every stack of papers, every mismatched item in view asks the brain to process it. Over time, this creates subtle mental fatigue. A peaceful home isn’t empty—it’s intentional. The fewer decisions your eyes must make, the calmer your brain feels.

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FURNITURE THAT FLOWS A room’s layout can either invite you in or push you out.

Spaces that allow easy movement, comfortable seating, soft textures, and natural pathways create emotional ease.

Think of your home in zones: a reading spot, a conversation area, a kitchen prep space that feels uncluttered enough to enjoy.

WELLNESS AT HOME

WHY A HEALTH-CENTERED HOME MATTERS A home designed and decorated with mental and physical health in mind does more than look good—it actively supports how you think, feel, and function each day. Research consistently shows our environments influence stress hormones, sleep quality, focus, and even immune response.

When your surroundings feel chaotic, your nervous system stays on alert.

When they feel ordered and soothing, your body is given permission to rest.

A peaceful home acts as a buffer between you and the outside world.

It creates a sense of predictability and safety, which lowers cortisol levels and helps regulate emotions. This is especially important in a culture where we’re constantly overstimulated by screens, notifications, and noise. Your home can become the place where your brain finally powers down.

There’s also a cumulative benefit.

Small environmental stressors—harsh lighting, cluttered surfaces, awkward

ENGAGE SENSES BEYOND SIGHT A truly peaceful home isn’t just something you see—it’s something you experience. While visual calm is important, your brain also takes cues from sound, texture, and scent.

Softening these sensory inputs can dramatically improve how a space feels.

Start with sound. Hard surfaces amplify noise, which can subtly increase stress. Adding a rug, curtains, or upholstered furniture helps absorb sound and makes a room feel quieter and more grounded. If outside noise is an issue, white noise or gentle background music can create a sense of auditory privacy.

furniture placement—may seem insignificant on their own, but over time they drain mental energy. By contrast, a health-oriented space quietly gives energy back. You may notice better sleep, improved focus, or simply a greater desire to spend time at home instead of escaping it.

Creating a health space also encourages healthier habits. When a room feels calm and intentional, you’re more likely to sit and read, stretch, cook a real meal, or engage in conversation rather than defaulting to passive distraction. The environment gently nudges behavior without requiring willpower.

Perhaps most importantly, a peaceful home reinforces a sense of control.

In a world full of uncertainty, having a space that reflects your values and supports your well-being builds emotional resilience. It becomes a reminder that rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity, and one you can design into everyday life.

Texture matters as well. Incorporating soft, natural materials; linen pillows, cotton throws, wool rugs, and wood accentsadds comfort without visual clutter. These tactile elements invite you to slow down and physically relax.

Finally, be intentional with scent. Smell is one of the strongest triggers of memory and emotion. A subtle, consistent scent from a candle, diffuser, or fresh greenery can signal calm almost instantly. The goal isn’t to announce the scent, but to let it quietly define the room.

When multiple senses are supported, your home stops feeling like a backdrop and starts functioning as a restorative environment—one that helps you feel better without asking for effort.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

by Ca my Rey nolds a nd A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

Your Brain on January The Cognitive Fresh-Start Effect

The surprising science behind why the first month of the year makes it easier to think clearly, reset routines, and build momentum.

T

here’s something about January that feels different. The air is crisp, the calendar is clean, and even the familiar routines of everyday life seem to come with a renewed sense of possibility. For years, people have described this feeling as simply the “New Year mindset.” But neuroscientists now know it’s much more than that.

It’s called the Fresh-Start Effect—a cognitive shift that happens when we enter a new time marker: a new year, a new month, a birthday, even a Monday. These transition points create a psychological distance between our past selves and our current goals. In January, that effect is at its strongest.

Taking Advantage of the Fresh-Start Effect The momentum of January is powerful—but like all momentum, it can fade unless we reinforce it.

Even small choices can extend your mental “reset period.”

Try these simple strategies:

�Seek morning light. Bright natural light early in the day signals alertness and improves mood.

�Add something new. Join a class, try a new

Why January Works Like a Reset Button Researchers have found that our brains are naturally wired to embrace change at the start of a new cycle. The novelty of a fresh calendar helps sharpen focus, increase motivation, and boost self-regulation. It’s as if our minds lean forward, ready to begin again.

Environmental cues also play a role. Winter light, cooler temperatures, and slower social rhythms create natural moments for reflection. This inward pause opens the door for clearer thinking and healthier decision-making.

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walking trail, or explore a hobby—novelty rewires the brain.

�Declutter one small space. A drawer, a shelf, or your car console. The mental clarity that follows is noticeable.

�Set micro-goals instead of massive ones. The brain builds confidence through easy wins.

January’s magic isn’t just symbolic—it’s neurological. When we understand how the brain uses these fresh starts to reorient and refocus, we can intentionally shape the kind of year we want to have. And it all begins with the simple decision to start fresh.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BEYOND THE RESET: What January Does to the Rest of Your Mind What’s especially interesting about January is that it doesn’t just make us want to change—it actually changes how we see ourselves. Psychologists call this temporal self-appraisal, the idea that we mentally separate our “past self” from our “current self” when a major time marker arrives. In January, that distance gets magnified. Suddenly, the choices you made in October feel like they belong to a version of you who no longer exists. This subtle identity upgrade is one reason people feel bolder, more optimistic, and more willing to make adjustments that felt overwhelming a few months earlier.

January also reduces cognitive clutter in ways we rarely notice. After the frenzy of the holidays—shopping lists, travel plans, dozens of social interactions— we naturally enter a period of lowered sensory and mental load. In other words, our brains finally have bandwidth again. With fewer inputs competing for attention, the executive parts of the brain (the planning, organizing, and decision-making centers) regain their strength. That restored clarity often feels like “motivation,” but scientifically, it’s more like finally getting access to RAM that’s been tied up for weeks.

There’s also a physiological rhythm at play. Cooler temperatures cue the body to rest and recalibrate. Even our circadian biology becomes more structured as social obligations decrease, which stabilizes mood-regulating hormones.

This is why the same walk around the neighborhood can feel more grounding in January than it did in December.

Perhaps the most overlooked part of the Fresh-Start Effect is what neuroscientists call habit architecture—the scaffolding around your daily routines. January is a rare moment when your mind is willing to question its defaults:

� Do I still want to start the day with my phone? � Is this the healthiest rhythm for my family? � What could I swap, streamline, or simplify?

These questions matter because new habits don’t form from willpower—they form when the brain is open to renegotiating the contract of everyday life. January hands you that openness on a silver platter.

In the end, the real gift of January isn’t a resolution—it’s the opportunity to think differently about who you are becoming. And leaning into that shift, even in small ways, can shape not just the year ahead, but the person you grow into along the way.

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SMALL STEPS, BIG RESULTS

by Ca my Rey nolds a nd A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

Resetting Your Health

at Any Age

THE MICRO-HABITS METHOD

Why tiny changes, done consistently, are the most powerful way to transform your health in the new year.

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anuary has a way of making us feel like anything is possible. We buy fresh planners, reorganize closets, and promise ourselves we’ll finally commit to the big goals we put off last year. But what if the key to better health isn’t found in sweeping resolutions at all?

What if the real secret is tucked into the smallest moments of your day?

Health researchers are increasingly turning their attention to micro-habits—tiny, repeatable actions that require almost no effort but, over time, create measurable improvements in energy, mood, and overall well-being. Unlike traditional resolutions, micro-habits don’t depend on willpower. They simply attach themselves to routines you already have.

A micro-habit might be as simple as drinking a glass of water before you pour your morning coffee.

Or standing up and stretching each time you finish a phone call. Or taking 30 seconds to breathe deeply before you start the car. The goal isn’t dramatic change. It’s quiet, steady progress.

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WHY MICRO-HABITS WORK Our brains love patterns, but they are actually wired to be lazy. In more positive terms, this simply means they work in ways that conserve as much energy as possible to ensure sufficient resources to achieve big or critical goals. Big lifestyle changes can feel exciting at first, but they often fail because they demand too much too soon. Micro-habits sneak under the radar of resistance. They take seconds to complete, which means they’re easier to sustain—and much easier to build upon.

When done consistently, these tiny choices stack up, creating momentum toward bigger transformations. A daily one-minute walk often becomes five minutes, which becomes ten. A single stretch becomes a mobility routine. A nightly deep breath becomes a calming wind-down ritual.

SMALL STEPS, BIG RESULTS WHERE TO START Try anchoring micro-habits to things you already do: While brushing your teeth, stand on one leg to improve balance.

When heating your morning oatmeal, do two simple shoulder rolls.

After you take your evening vitamins, drink a second glass of water.

At every red light, relax your jaw and drop your shoulders.

It doesn’t matter which habits you choose. What matters is consistency.

This January, instead of making resolutions that fade by February, give yourself the gift of small, steady wins. Those tiny steps may not look dramatic on day one—but by day 100, you’ll feel the difference in every part of your life.

A LIFETIME OF GROWTH There’s nothing wrong with turning over a new leaf now and then. Fresh starts feel hopeful. They remind us that we’re allowed to change our minds—and our habits—at any point in life. But lasting change doesn’t come from the occasional reset. It comes from quietly reshaping the lifestyle that runs on autopilot every single day.

Most of us don’t make choices moment by moment. We live by instinct, repetition, and routine. And as we age, those routines often shift without us noticing. We move less. We sit more. Aches and stiffness make us hesitant to be active.

Portions slowly grow, even as our energy needs quietly shrink. Over time, the math stops working in our favor.

That’s why there’s no amount of intense exercise that can undo habits formed over years. You can’t out-train a lifestyle. If an extra 20 pounds arrived gradually, it won’t disappear through heroic effort alone. The real adjustment happens in the small, unremarkable moments—eating slightly less, choosing simpler meals, pausing before second helpings, and allowing your body to recalibrate.

Micro-habits work because they align with reality. They meet us where we are, not where we wish we’d been ten years ago. When the lifestyle shifts, the body follows—slowly, steadily, and sustainably.

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ADVERTORIAL • ELECTION 2026

SARAH MOORE Trusted Legal Hand for a New Court

A

ssistant District Attorney Sarah Moore’s path to running for judge of the recently established 512th District Court isn’t a pivot—it’s the next chapter in a life built around service, community, and deep experience in the law. A mom of four and a Williamson County resident, she’s spent nearly two decades putting in the work that matters most when a courtroom decision affects real families.

Sarah’s professional journey has largely been in prosecution, and she’s led cases most people never see— from serious felony jury trials to everyday matters that touch local families.

In that time, she’s been lead counsel in more than 100 felony jury cases, a body of experience that simply can’t be replicated from behind a desk.

But Sarah doesn’t just believe in experience—she lives it. She is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor that reflects mastery in her field. She is a published legal author and has also been recognized with statewide awards for ethical prosecution and victim advocacy, including the 2020 Lone Star Prosecutor Award and the 2024 Crime Victims Advocate Hall of Fame Award from local advocates.

profession. I make a point of regularly teaching lawyers across Texas on advocacy, leadership, ethical plea negotiations, and professional ethics."

Sarah affirms judges must be prepared and able to bring more than just legal knowledge to the bench.

Such an honorable job also demands sound discretion shaped by years in the courtroom—an individual who appreciates not only the letter of the law but its real-world impact on families, victims, and defendants alike. That’s the balance she wants to bring to the 512th District Court: fairness grounded in compassion and common sense.

Sarah's commitment doesn’t stop at the courthouse door. She serves on the board of the WilCo Women’s Center and is active in local civic organizations including Georgetown Area Republican Women, Leander Area Republican Women, Northwest Austin Republican Women, Republican Club of Sun City Texas, and has recently been approved for membership in the Rotary Club of Georgetown, specifically for involvement in their human trafficking awareness initiatives.

Her life outside the law—as a parent, volunteer, community leader, and neighbor—informs how she sees justice: it’s not an abstract ideal, it’s something that should make life better and safer for every family in Williamson County.

THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL Sarah is running in the 2026 Republican primary because she believes in service, not status. She sees this campaign as a long job interview with the community—one she approaches with energy and humility and she is confident she will not tire of reaching every part of the county to earn the trust and confidence of voters.

I am asking the community for their vote because I want to elevate the discourse and quality of the legal profession in our county and help our community members feel certain that they can depend on fairness and firmness from this

LOVE OF THE LAW "I believe what sets me apart," Sarah says, "isn't simply the number of cases I've tried—it’s how I strive to use those experiences to lift up others in the

POL. AD. PAID FOR BY THE SARAH MOORE FOR WILCO CAMPAIGN IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE VOLUNTARY LIMITS OF THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT

new court.

She says she finds the robe to be much more than a symbol. It is a promise that the people of Williamson County deserve a judge with experience they can trust, judgment they can count on, and a heart for service that carries beyond the bench into the community.

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TEXAS SIT-REP Part 2 of a Series

sto r y an d p h o tos c ont r i b u te d by CO L TER RY W I L S O N, US A R MY R ETI R ED, TX Re p, D i s t 20

HIGHER EDUCATION REFORM

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n September 10, 2025, the assassination of Charlie Kirk shook the country. What followed was just as troubling: the public celebration of political violence by many individuals operating within or around college campuses, amid heightened anti-Israel protests related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. That moment stripped away any remaining illusion that our campuses were immune to the broader breakdown in civil discourse gripping the nation. When violence is justified as political expression, the rule of law is no longer guiding behavior.

Why the Legislature Acted

These concerns did not emerge overnight. Senate bill 2972 was passed earlier this year in response to a wave of disruptive campus protests, many involving non-students and conduct that interfered with core academic operations. The bill represents the state’s direct effort to restore lawful order while fully protecting the expressive rights of students and faculty on campus. Following the events of September, Speaker Dustin Burrows and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick jointly established The Select Committees on Civil Discourse and Freedom of Speech in Higher Education. As Chairman of the House Committee, I am committed to using the interim to examine how campuses across Texas are implementing these reforms and whether further action is needed to preserve both liberty and safety.

From Transparency to Conduct

The bill makes clear that students and employees of public institutions of higher education have the right to engage in expressive activities and observe the expressive activities of others. Universities are instructed to treat these freedoms not as privileges, but as core institutional obligations.

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This article is the second installment of a three-part series on higher education reform in Texas that began in last month’s issue. In the last article, an outline of SB 37 established a comprehensive framework for transparency and accountability in our public institutions of higher education. That law strengthened governing boards, clarified faculty roles, and created an independent ombudsman to ensure students, faculty, and administrators all have a fair and lawful channel for resolving disputes. However, transparency alone will not be enough. A university can be well-governed on paper yet still fail its fundamental mission if civil discourse collapses on campus.

SB 2972 codifies those principles in state law. Universities may adopt time, place, and manner restrictions only if clearly published pursuant to institutional policy, applied equally regardless of viewpoint, and allow ample alternative means of expression. The bill also prohibits institutions from requiring prior permits or permissions before individuals may assemble or distribute written material in designated public forums.

Governing boards are now explicitly required to designate the public forum areas on their campuses consistent with constitutional standards. This prevents institutions from moving the goalposts when controversy arises and ensures expressive rights remain stable no matter which administration is in place.

Under the law, students and employees are prohibited from using amplified sound during class hours if it intimidates others, interferes with campus operations, or obstructs the lawful duties of employees or law enforcement. During the final two weeks of a semester, when academic pressure is at its highest, disruptive expressive activities face additional restrictions to protect instructional continuity and student performance.

TEXAS SIT-REP

ORDER IS NOT OPTIONAL

Camping and encampments are expressly prohibited. Universities exist to educate, not to serve as permanent protest encampments where sanitation, safety, and access quickly deteriorate.

The law also prohibits wearing disguises to obstruct enforcement, intimidate others, or interfere with law enforcement activity. Accountability requires visibility.

Expressive activity is prohibited between 10pm and 8am, recognizing free speech must coexist with the right of students to rest, study, and live without constant disturbance.

The lowering of the United States or Texas flag for the purpose of raising another nation’s or organization’s flag is also prohibited. Public institutions are required to uphold the symbols of the constitutional order under which they operate.

SB 2972 does not merely announce expectations. It requires each institution to adopt a formal policy outlining rights and responsibilities regarding expressive activities. Those policies must establish disciplinary sanctions for those who unduly interfere with the expressive activities of others or violate institutional rules or state law. They must include a grievance procedure for addressing complaints. And they must require individuals to present proof of identity and status when asked by an institution official engaged in lawful duty.

Oversight Continues

The Legislature does not pass laws and walk away. Following the September assassination and the unrest that followed, Speaker Burrows and Lieutenant Governor Patrick formed select committees in both chambers to examine civil discourse and freedom of speech in higher education. I was honored to be asked to serve as Chairman of the House committee.

Over the next year, our committee will hear testimony from students, faculty, administrators, law enforcement, and constitutional scholars. We will evaluate how institutions are implementing SB 2972. We will examine whether public safety is adequately protected. And we will assess whether outside political organizations are exploiting campus unrest to destabilize learning environments.

This work is not about punishing institutions—it's about ensuring laws passed by the Legislature are implemented faithfully and consistently across all systems. Uniform law is meaningless without uniform application.

SB 37 created the structure for transparency and accountability in governance. It strengthened Boards of Regents, clarified the advisory role of faculty senates, mandated leadership evaluations, and created the Office of the Ombudsman within the Higher Education Coordinating Board. That office will serve as an external channel for resolving disputes involving governance, curriculum, and employment practices.

SB 2972 supplies the behavioral framework that complements that governance structure, the statutory system through which Texas public universities are overseen by Boards of Regents, presidents selected by those boards and statewide oversight established by the Legislature. One law governs how decisions are made. The other governs how conduct is regulated.

Civil Discourse Is a Civic Skill

Civil discourse is not a political luxury.

It is the foundation of self-government.

The First Amendment protects unpopular speech not because it is comfortable, but because it is necessary.

Still, no constitutional tradition has ever equated free speech with the right to disrupt, intimidate, or threaten.

A university should be a place where students learn how to argue without fear, how to disagree without dehumanizing, and how to engage in conflict without resorting to coercion. That is how leaders are formed. That is how citizens are prepared.

SB 2972 does not silence speech. It protects it by re-anchoring expression to the rule of law. It affirms that campuses belong to learning, not lawlessness; to dialogue, not disorder.

Texas is proving that it is possible to defend liberty without surrendering order. It is possible to protect speech without tolerating chaos. And it is possible to restore public trust without sacrificing constitutional rights.

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ADVERTORIAL • ELECTION 2026

EXPERIENCE. INTEGRITY. JUSTICE. A judge’s role isn’t about power.

It’s about responsibility.

Knowing the law and applying it fairly is how you serve real people. ~ RYAN BOWNDS

W

hen Ryan Bownds decided to run for Judge of the 512th District Court, he wasn’t driven by politics or ambition, but by experience. With more than a decade of prosecution experience he has devoted himself to Williamson County, including as the Chief of the Special Victims Unit. Ryan has spent his career in courtrooms where decisions carry real consequences for victims, defendants, and families. He has seen firsthand how much depends on a judge who understands the law, applies it consistently, and treats every person in the courtroom with fairness and respect.

Ryan is running for the 512th because he believes the courtroom should be guided by law, not ideology.

His judicial philosophy is straightforward: a judge’s role is to apply the law impartially no matter who is standing before the bench. “When you do this job long enough,” Ryan says, “you must be mindful that litigants are not just cause numbers. They’re real people, and a judge’s decision can affect them significantly.” To Ryan, taking the bench is not a position of power, but one of responsibility, which carries an obligation to the community as a whole.

The Difference Ryan believes one of the distinctions between himself and his opponents is depth of trial experience.

Ryan has been a trial prosecutor for 13 years; consistently in the courtroom and handling cases from start to finish. He hasn’t just studied the rules of the road, he’s been behind the wheel for a long time. That experience gives him an instinctive understanding of how trials unfold, how evidentiary rulings affect outcomes, and how courtroom decisions impact everyone in-

volved. A judge with that background doesn’t have to imagine how rulings will play out, he already knows.

As well, Ryan’s commitment to Williamson County runs just as deep. When he passed the bar, he was licensed in Williamson County, and his very first trial was in Justice of the Peace court here. “I didn’t move around to different counties or offices to chase a career,” he says. “This is where I want to be, and this is the community I want to stay invested in as a judge. I have consistently poured into the same role, building institutional knowledge and long-term relationships rooted in service to Williamson County."

That focus is also reflected in the professional organizations he supports. Ryan serves as Treasurer of the Williamson County Bar Association and is a member of the American Inns of Court—groups dedicated to ethics, mentorship, legal excellence, and strengthening the judiciary itself. These roles are about upholding the standards that keep courts functioning with integrity.

So why should voters choose Ryan Bownds?

Because he understands the weight of judicial decisions and has the experience to carry it well. “I’m running because I know the impact a judge’s decision has on real people,” Ryan says. “I know I can make fair, right, and just decisions and I feel an obligation to use that experience for the community I love.”

In a role where impartiality is essential, Ryan offers voters confidence that justice will be applied thoughtfully, fairly, and with the greatest respect.

POL. AD. PAID FOR BY THE RYAN BOWNDS CAMPAIGN, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE JUDICIAL CAMPAIGN FAIRNESS ACT.

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KIDS & EDUCATION

C hby a r lo v a lc

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon •bpyh oto Chtte r i s t iKo a nna Behu tt i ks

When Screens Go Dark, Kids Light Up HOW A LITTLE LESS SCREEN TIME IS MAKING ROOM FOR CONNECTION, CREATIVITY, AND CHILDHOOD AGAIN

O

n December 10 Australia became the first nation to enforce a sweeping restriction on social media use: children under 16 years old are no longer permitted to hold accounts on major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, X, Facebook, and YouTube.

Under the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, tech companies that fail to block under-16s from accessing these platforms can face fines in the tens of millions of dollars. The law doesn’t penalize kids or parents but does hold platforms accountable and aims to address concerns about mental health, harmful content, and the addictive design of social media.

Meanwhile in the United States, Texas passed its own landmark law targeting the way children interact with screens—specifically in schools. Under House Bill 1481, students are prohibited from using cell phones and other personal communication devices during the school day. Schools must either ban 38

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these devices on campus entirely or ensure they remain unseen and unused, tucked away in backpacks, lockers, or secure storage, from "bell to bell."

WHAT'S OLD IS NEW AGAIN

Taken together, these two policies— one national and digital, the other state-level and physical—reflect a growing recognition that unfettered access to screens and digital communication can shape young people’s social lives in ways that are neither healthy nor fulfilling. Both laws represent bold experiments: Australia’s with redefining how minors interact with social networks outside school, and Texas’s with reshaping the environment of learning and community inside school.

Imagine school hallways no longer dominated by heads bent over screens, headphones blocking out the world. Instead, in passing periods and at lunch, students might actually talk to one another, not by tapping emojis or swiping right, but by engaging face-to-face conversations, sharing jokes, and trading stories from morning classes. Consider the subtle shift when a student reaches into a pocket not for a phone, but for a deck of cards, challenging a friend to a quick game of war or Uno at a lunch table. Cards—simple, tactile, social—become a catalyst for laughter, negotiation, and connection.

The immediate critique of such efforts is familiar: don’t teenagers need digital connectivity? Isn’t online social life just part of growing up in the 21st century? But there’s something deeper at stake—a chance to reclaim social rhythms and spontaneous interactions that dominated childhood before smartphones became umbilical cords.

Or picture a group of friends at a picnic table, not posting to a feed, but weaving friendship bracelets with knots of thread that signify bonds, patience, and creativity. These bracelets carry memories of the time spent weaving them, of inside jokes embedded in color choices, and of hands that touched the same strings at the same moment.

KIDS & EDUCATION That’s a different kind of social imprint than likes or follows, one that lasts not in unique algorithms, but in braided color.

And what about those folded paper notes? The clandestine whispers of friendships and crushes, passed with intricate origami folds that thrilled students way back in the 1900s. Long before DMs, handwritten missives were the beating heart of school communication: goofy, awkward, sincere, secret. They demanded not just attention, but presence.

These are small things, maybe even quaint. But small things shape social muscles. They teach a child to read tone of voice, to negotiate both words and feelings, to interpret a facial expression or a sliding chair. They help cultivate patience— waiting for a friend to arrive at lunch rather than instant gratification from a screen, and empathy, listening deeply to a friend who’s not filtered through reaction buttons, but sitting right across the table.

EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

Of course, neither the Australian law nor the Texas school ban suggests a full rejection of technology. The goal isn’t to throw away all screens, but to create space for real conversation, creativity, and connection. Australia’s law acknowledges that social media can distort self-image and domino into anxiety; Texas’s law acknowledges that constant notifications fracture attention and distract from learning. Together, they may nudge an entire generation to rediscover the joy of being present—to look up, to talk, to laugh without a screen between them.

Maybe, in this quietly revolutionary shift, kids will start doing the old-school things again—playing, creating, speaking, and weaving communities in the real world.

And maybe that’s exactly the kind of social skill many of us Gen-Xers and Millennials have realized we’ve been missing too.

A Playful Pause from Screens

One creative tool that’s gaining attention in the effort to help kids and, honestly, adults as well to break the cycle of endless scrolling is an app called Touch Grass. True to its name, this app doesn’t just track screen time; it blocks access to distracting apps until the user literally goes outside and touches grass and takes a photo as proof. The idea behind it is simple and playful: instead of unlocking Instagram or TikTok with another tap, kids have to step outside, breathe some fresh air, and reconnect with the physical world before screens unlock again. Touch Grass turns a common internet joke into a real prompt for real-world movement, encouraging more outdoor breaks, more connection with nature, and a healthier balance between digital and physical experiences that can only help young minds grow.

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SHELTER STORIES

by Ann Ma rie Kenn on • p h o to s co urtesy WC RAS

Reunion Stations Turn “Found Dog” Moments Into Happy Endings

Last year, when Williamson County Regional

Animal Shelter (WCRAS) launched its LOCAL

MICROCHIP READER

PROGRAM, the idea was

simple and hopeful: make it easier for neighbors to help neighbors—and get lost pets home faster.

This winter, that idea is quietly but confidently taking up residence across Round Rock, one bright yellow box at a time.

WCRAS has begun distributing what they call REUNION STATIONS, small, highly visible kiosks placed at participating local businesses that give everyday residents the tools to help reunite lost pets with their families on the spot. The goal is ambitious but refreshingly practical: one Reunion Station in every Round Rock ZIP code, with plans to expand into surrounding communities once the city is fully covered.

If you spot one around town, you’ll know it. The stations are impossible to miss—sunny yellow boxes designed to

stand out when someone is stressed, worried, and holding a confused dog or cat on a leash. Inside each station is a microchip scanner and clear instructions that walk a good Samaritan through what to do next.

Other early host locations include PetSuites Round Rock and Anchor Bar, a reminder that helping lost pets doesn’t require a veterinary clinic or official building—just a visible, accessible place and a willingness to help.

The process is intentionally simple. If you find a lost pet, you visit the nearest Reunion Station, scan the animal for a chip, and then use the QR code on the box to follow step-by-step instructions.

If a chip number appears, the system helps connect you with the owner or the appropriate support team—no shelter trip, no law enforcement call, and no guessing what to do next.

That’s part of what makes the Reunion Station concept feel so aligned with the spirit of Round Rock and Williamson County. It relies on everyday people doing what they already want to do when they see a lost pet: help.

The stations simply give them the confidence and tools to act quickly.

“It removes the panic from the moment,” one volunteer noted. “You’re not wondering who to call or where to go. You’re doing something helpful right away.”

One of the first confirmed locations is Round Rock Yoga in downtown Round Rock, where the station sits just outside the studio doors. Founder Zelinda, a longtime shelter volunteer and supporter, didn’t hesitate to host one.

“Round Rock Yoga is proud to host the WCRAS chip scanner in front of our studio,” she shared. “It’s such a simple way to help reunite lost pets with their owners—and to serve the community we love.”

WCRAS is actively looking for additional local businesses willing to host a station. Each new location expands the safety net, making it more likely that a wandering dog or curious cat can be scanned within minutes instead of hours.

For a program that started as a pilot, the Reunion Stations feel like a natural next chapter—one that turns community compassion into something tangible and visible on our sidewalks.

Because sometimes getting a pet home doesn’t require a big intervention. It just takes a neighbor, a scanner, and a bright yellow box pointing the way.

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THRIVING AFTER 55

c ont r i bu te d by S teve Fou gh t

My goodness, it’s January. How did that happen?

Where did 2025 go? And what do we have in store for 2026?

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aving made our New Year’s Resolutions, and with the end of winter in sight over the horizon, it’s a perfect time to enjoy this new beginning, get out and about, and do something different and interesting. I say “get out and about” because that’s a huge part of maintaining our Health and Fitness (the theme of this edition of the Georgetown View).

In that regard, I’m reminded of a time when we visited some friends on Long Island. Since we were tourists, we wanted to see the sights. We asked their advice on where to begin (the Statue

of Liberty, Coney Island, Times Square, the Guggenheim, or wherever)? They said they hadn’t visited any of them, because they were all too crowded and overcome by tourists. Unbelievable!

Can you imagine living in Rome and never having seen the Colosseum? Or in Paris without visiting the Eiffel Tower?

Or even Moscow without visiting Red Square and seeing the Kremlin.

A bit closer to home, we know some people who have never visited The Square (The Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas I might add!), or ven-

The list is obviously not exhaustive. But it’s a place to start, from which you can shuffle the deck, add items, and otherwise tailor it to your interests. In doing so you might also consider just visiting The Square for some of the regular monthly events, such as: 1st Fridays: Music on the Square (Beard Club) 2nd Wednesdays: Georgetown Public Library World Cinema

3rd Sundays: Live music at the Library Saturdays: Farmers Market at Wolf Ranch There’s these and many more in and around the area. The Georgetown View covers many of them well ahead time.

Take a look, then get out and enjoy this wonderful, historical community.

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If we’re going to Thrive after 55 (the theme of this series of articles), then we need to get out and about. Here’s a suggested schedule to do one thing each month, romp around the area, see the sights, and enjoy life.

3rd Saturdays: Pistons on the Square

2nd Saturdays (March-November): Market Days

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tured even as far as Wimberley (aka, “A Little Bit of Heaven”), or gone really wild and driven all the way to Fredericksburg (wineries, distilleries, The National Museum of the Pacific War, German food and even the Rockbox Theater).

My goodness, what a shame it would be to miss these gems.

Go For It!

THRIVING AFTER 55 JANUARY

Start the year with dinner on/around The Square, especially since the new enclosed parking garage is open! Go mid-week, when the crowds are lighter. There’s everything from Italian to Tex-Mex, to Americana of all types, styles, and price-points. There’s even Asian, and a British pub. Wherever you go, have dessert; you’ll love it and you’ve earned it!

APRIL

You simply have to check out the Red Poppy Festival, that’s Georgetown’s signature event. The festival kicks off on a Friday night and runs through Sunday with three days of music, entertainment, and family fun, and more than 150 artisan vendors.

JULY

Take the opportunity to celebrate the 250th birthday of this Great Nation in-person at San Gabriel Park or at the Parade downtown. The Georgetown Sertoma Club sponsors a daylong event on the 4th that includes games in the park, vendors by the dozens, live music and ends with a wonderful fireworks show beginning around 9:30pm.

OCTOBER

Head to Walburg for Oktoberfest where there are lots of choices for restaurants, biergartens, and entertainment in this small community that’s rooted in German traditions.

Sing a round of Ein Prosit with the crowd!

FEBRUARY

Visit the Gault Archaeological Site in Florence. The “dig” revealed evidence of human occupation dating to before the appearance of the Clovis culture. It’s absolutely amazing.

MAY

Wander to Wimberley The terms “quaint”, and “art colony”, don’t quite capture Wimberley’s atmosphere, but they’re close. Locally owned, and sourced, restaurants abound. First Saturday is Market Day, with nearly 500 booths presenting antiques, handcrafting, local produce, and music. It’s “Little Texas” from the old days.

AUGUST

Once the summer heat peaks, dive underground into Inner Space Cavern. It’s one of the best-preserved caves in Texas and has beautiful formations, large rooms, prehistoric animal bones, and a truly unique discovery story. Temperature in the cavern is a constant 72 degrees, with a bit of humidity.

NOVEMBER

The Field of Honor is a must-see.

There are over 2,000 US flags, each honoring a veteran, first responder, K-9 Unit or equestrian hero on display in San Gabriel Park. It’s open 24/7 throughout the week of the event and was initiated, funded, and is operated by Georgetown Rotary.

Honor Flags can still be purchased.

It’s stirring.

MARCH

Head to Fredericksburg. The National Museum of the Pacific War is an absolute MUST. Followed closely thereafter by winery tours, and the Garrison Brothers Distillery (be still my heart…their bourbon is awesome).

There’s so much to do in Fredericksburg it’s worth an overnight stay.

Consider the Hanger Hotel and a show at the Rockbox.

JUNE

Use this month to learn more about Texas, from the geography, to its many-varied demographics, to the many flags that flew over our Great State over the years. The Williamson Museum is great, and (assuming you have the nerve to brave the wilds of IH-35), you might visit The Bullock Museum in Austin.

SEPTEMBER

Enjoy a play at the Palace Theater in downtown Georgetown. This carefully restored historic landmark is on Austin Avenue, on The Square, near dining, with intimate seating (including a balcony) and wonderful entertainment. It’s British-style theater (casual) with Broadway level performances. You can get tickets online at georgetownpalace.org.

DECEMBER

Between the end of November and the first of the year, The Square is a “must visit” destination. It begins with Lighting of The Square the day after Thanksgiving. All of the trees and buildings are lined with lights, and they come on when the mayor throws the switch. Next up is the Christmas Stroll where the streets in and around The Square are packed with local vendors and entertainment. The restaurants are open, showing off and sharing their talents.

This long-standing event is sponsored by the Downtown Georgetown Association.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?

by Lin da A. Thornton an d An n Mari e Ken n o n

ALL IN FOR TEXAS HOLD 'EM

YOU WOULDN’T EXPECT ANYTHING LESS FROM TEXAS. IF YOU'RE GOING TO PUT YOUR SPIN ON A CENTURIES-OLD CARD GAME, WHY NOT GO AHEAD AND PUT YOUR NAME ON IT, TOO? While early versions of poker can be traced to Persian, Chinese, and European card games, Texas Hold ’em itself is a truly American invention—born in Robstown, Texas in the early 1900s. Recognized by the Texas Legislature as the official birthplace of the game, Robstown’s road gamblers refined a style of play that used two private “hole cards” and five shared community cards. This structure created a perfect mix of luck, psychology, and strategy—and it was only a matter of time before the game outgrew its Texas roots.

FROM ROBSTOWN TO LAS VEGAS Throughout the mid-20th century, a group of legendary Texas gamblers (page 47) traveled the country playing highstakes poker. When they arrived in Las Vegas in 1967, they introduced Hold ’em to casino owners who were immediately intrigued by its action-driven pace and strategic complexity.

The turning point came in 1970, when the influential Binion family, owners of Binion’s Horseshoe Casino, adopted Texas Hold ’em as the featured event in their newly created World Series of Poker (WSOP). Patriarch Benny Binion believed the game’s mix of skill and drama made it the perfect format for determining the “world’s best poker player.”

He was right, and local culture played a part as well —seven of the first eight WSOP champions were from West Texas.

This decision transformed Hold ’em from a Texas curiosity into an international phenomenon. By the mid-1970s, Hold ’em was the preferred game of serious players. By the 2000s, it became the version of poker showcased on television, online platforms, and competitive circuits worldwide.

The biggest surge in popularity came in 2003, when amateur player Chris Moneymaker (yes, his real name) won the WSOP Main Event after qualifying online for just $39. His improbable win demonstrated that anyone could play—and anyone could win—sparking the modern poker boom.

Today, Texas Hold ’em is the most popular form of poker in the world.

DICHOTOMY OF THE GAME The rules are simple enough for beginners, yet deep enough to reward long-term strategy.

♠ LUCK V. SKILL: You can’t control the cards you’re dealt, but you can control your odds, your reads, and your decisions.

♠ HIDDEN VS. SHARED INFORMATION: Your private hole cards make each player’s situation unique, but everyone must analyze the same community cards—and each other.

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WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?

BUT ISN'T PLAYING POKER IN TEXAS ILLEGAL? According to Texas Penal Code 47.04, poker is legal when the following conditions are met:

♠ Games must take place in a private venue with membership access.

♠ All players must have an equal chance of winning, apart from skill and luck.

♠ The house cannot profit directly from the pot as casinos do; instead, players pay for time at the table.

♠ This model has led to a surge of legal poker clubs across Texas—and a thriving poker culture.

POKER AS A PROFESSION • WITH MICHAEL GERONIMO After ten years spent as a professional player, dealer, and floor supervisor, Michael Geronimo tried transitioning into a new business field. But whenever he networked, people were far more interested in his poker experience than anything else. Eventually, he realized the obvious: he already had a business worth building.

In April 2023, Michael launched Texas Poker Culture, a website and brand designed to showcase the industry he knows best.

His professional dealer school quickly became his most in-demand offering, filling beginner classes almost entirely through word of mouth.

Since then, he has expanded to include private poker events— birthdays, charity fundraisers, corporate team-building functions, and more. Michael was especially honored to provide services for a Texas State Lawmakers annual event, where he was surprised to learn that many attendees had no idea legal poker rooms even existed in Texas.

TEXAS POKER CULTURE Poker is having a moment in Texas— and Georgetown is part of it.

Not the high-roller, Vegas-only version people picture, but a modern, social game that feels surprisingly normal. The kind of normal where someone says they are playing poker the same way they would say they’re meeting friends for trivia, pickleball, or an escape room.

Across Texas, players are discovering that live, in-person poker is legal in private social clubs—clean, organized spaces that feel more like community gathering spots than smoky back rooms.

Larger clubs like Texas Card House and The Lodge helped set the standard, while places like Georgetown Poker Club make the game accessible close to home.

For first-timers, the biggest surprise usually isn’t the game—it is the atmosphere. These rooms are professional, welcoming, and filled with regulars who remember what it felt like to be new.

Poker also isn’t quite what its reputation suggests. Unlike games of pure chance, poker is a social strategy game. Luck matters, but

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what keeps players engaged is the mental challenge—reading situations, managing emotion, and improving decisions over time.

That mix is why poker works across generations. Younger players enjoy the structure and competition. Older players treat it like a mental workout. And many stay because poker creates something rare: a place where strangers sit down, talk, and build community.

That’s where Texas Poker Culture comes in—helping people understand the game, the etiquette, and the pace so poker feels welcoming instead of overwhelming. Some tips from Michael: ♠ PAY ATTENTION TO THE GAME. Conversation matters, but newcomers learn when talk fits naturally between hands. ♠ PLAY PREMIUM CARDS. Starting strong builds confidence and supports better long-term decisions. ♠ STAY WITH IT. Poker is a lifelong game.

It evolves, sharpens thinking, and blends strategy with social connection — which is exactly why its appeal keeps growing.

Scan the code to learn more about Texas Poker Culture.

LET’S PLAY TEXAS HOLD ’EM! Gone is the knock-three-times-to-enter, smoky, secretive poker room. Today’s Texas poker clubs are legal, friendly, and designed for recreational players of all skill levels. Michael recommends trying your luck at:

Georgetown Poker Club

The Lodge Poker Club Round Rock

WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?

THE ROAD GAMBLERS: TEXAS’ POKER LEGENDS Before poker tables were televised and tournament fields filled stadiums, the game was shaped by a gritty, fearless group of Texans known as the road gamblers. In the 1950s and ’60s, these men traveled dusty highways from one underground game to the next, carrying only their skill, their bankroll, and the courage required to sit down across from strangers in high-stakes rooms where players could win a lot of money, or a bullet. They lived like poker nomads— crisscrossing the southern states of the USA, always with cash, guns, and cards. Their goal was one thing: to find a game with sufficiently rich opponents and weak abilities.

DOYLE BRUNSON THE GODFATHER OF POKER LONGWORTH • Before he was a poker legend, Doyle Brunson was a world-class athlete. Standing 6’2” with NBA-level talent, Brunson’s professional basketball dreams came to an end after he broke his leg—an accident that changed the course of poker history. He turned his competitive fire toward cards and quickly became one of the most formibable Texas Hold ’em players in the world. Known as “Texas Dolly,” Brunson won two World Series of Poker Main Events, both with the same hand, 10–2—now famously called “the Doyle.”

Another hand, known as a "Doyle Brunson", especially in Texas, is the ace and queen of any suit because, in his words, he "[tries] never to play this hand". His book Super System is still considered the poker player’s bible, laying out strategies that transformed the game from guesswork into calculated skill. Brunson wasn’t just playing poker— he was teaching the world how to think.

AMARILLO SLIM PRESTON THE SHOWMAN AMARILLO • Amarillo Slim didn’t just play poker—he sold it. With his cowboy hat, quick wit, and fearless confidence, Slim became poker’s first true ambassador. A 1972 World Series of Poker champion, he helped bring Texas Hold ’em into the mainstream through television and film appearances, famously playing with figures like Larry Flynt and President Richard Nixon. Before tournament fame, he was a road gambler who helped introduce Hold ’em to Las Vegas in the 1960s. He later founded the Super Bowl of Poker, further elevating the game’s profile and authored several books on the game. Thanks to Amarillo Slim, poker gained personality, popularity, and a sense of fun that carried it far beyond smoky back rooms—even inspiring a 1991 video game bearing his name.

CRANDELL ADDINGTON THE STRATEGIST SAN ANTONIO • Known as “Dandy” for his sharp dress and sharper mind, Crandell brought a rare intellect to the poker table. A selfmade millionaire, he earned his degrees right here at Southwestern University before applying that academic discipline to Texas Hold ’em.

While others relied on bravado or instinct, he focused on probability, betting patterns, and long-term strategy, famously calling Hold ’em “the only poker game where strategy truly mattered.” Addington competed in the very first World Series of Poker, finishing runner-up in the inaugural Main Event, and played a key role in convincing casino owners that Hold ’em deserved center stage. His analytical approach helped legitimize poker as a game of skill, shaping its evolution from outlaw pastime to competitive sport.

SAILOR ROBERTS THE SILENT FORCE SAN ANGELO • Quiet, disciplined, and relentlessly consistent, Sailor Roberts was the opposite of a showman—and that made him dangerous. A former Navy serviceman, Roberts carried military precision into every hand he played. He avoided flash, rarely tilted, and outlasted opponents through patience and razor-sharp decision-making. Roberts was a founding figure in professional tournament poker, earning a World Series of Poker Main Event title and multiple final table appearances. Among fellow road gamblers, he was respected as the steady hand—the player who didn’t need theatrics to win.

His calm, methodical style helped shape tournament poker’s emphasis on endurance and mental control, proving that sometimes the quietest player at the table is the one to fear most.

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POPPY TALKS

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

CABIN FEVER SEASON

W

inter does something to me.

Not in the magical Hallmark way where I suddenly rediscover the joy of peppermint cocoa and oversized scarves. Nay-nay. I mean the psychological transition from functioning adult to frozen possum wearing fingerless gloves at my keyboard, waiting for my toes to thaw so I can remember what hope feels like.

Once the temperature drops below “Texan Approved” (somewhere in the 60s), outdoor living becomes theoretical. I stand at the back door, oversized mug of tea in hand, telling myself I might go out for some fresh air. Then a breeze hits my ankles, and I retreat faster than a house cat that accidentally touched snow. Cabin fever sets in, and the only cure is… apparently more cabin.

And because I’m inside more, that means more television. Which is dangerous, because winter TV is basically a hostage situation with better snacks.

The perfume ads from every Christmas commercial break have transitioned to Valentine’s scenes, but they maintain their cinematic fever-dream vibes—panthers stalking barefoot women in ballgowns through marble hallways while someone whispers a single French syllable in the background. All to suggest that if I wear this fragrance, I too can wander a desert looking confused, ethereal, and underdressed.

Perfume advertisers seem determined to ignore a basic reality: scent is one of the most scientifically proven triggers of memory. A smell can instantly transport you to childhood, a hospital waiting room, a high school gym, or your grandmother’s powdery bathroom where nothing was allowed to be touched. That feels like relevant information when you’re asking people to spend $65 on a liquid for its smell—yet the commercials rely almost entirely on visuals and interpretive wandering.

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Because memory is a gamble. That “mysterious, seductive” fragrance might actually just remind you of your mom—who is lovely, but not necessarily the vibe you were going for. Then again, maybe it is. Maybe comfort, nostalgia, and baked goods are exactly what you want to project. That’s fine. But it would be helpful to know going in.

Which brings us back to the commercials. Instead of French panthers, perhaps try honesty. Say, “This smells like wild poppies and cinnamon,” or “Warm vanilla with a hint of woods,” or “Powdery florals that unlock the notion that your mom used to totally overspray.” I don’t need a cinematic universe. I need a warning label.

Meanwhile, the men in the house— who eyeroll at my rants about vapid perfume commercials—are clinging to the last vestiges of the NFL season by their fingernails, knowing that once the Super Bowl ends, they’ll be pushed into that existential sports vacuum between the Lombardi Trophy and March Madness. It’s a bleak stretch—like emotional daylight savings. They just stand there blinking, muttering, “What… what do we watch now?” So they join us in the commercial trenches, where the only thing more confusing than a perfume ad is a pharmaceutical spot listing 47 side effects worse than what you’re treating.

And let’s be clear: this perfume nonsense isn’t just a women’s issue. The men’s cologne commercials are just as baffling, only darker, moodier, and inexplicably narrated by Johnny Depp.

Apparently the logic is that if you smell like this cologne, you too will become a mysterious man wandering the desert alone, wearing too many necklaces and brooding intensely to acoustic guitar music.

I have nothing against Johnny Depp.

He’s undeniably cool in a very specific,

cinematic way. But I don’t know anyone who has watched Pirates of the Caribbean or Edward Scissorhands and thought, “Yes. That man probably smells fantastic.” If anything, his characters suggest notes of rum, campfire smoke, and unresolved emotional trauma.

And yet the commercials insist that if a man sprays this on, he’ll instantly become dangerous, desirable, and deeply misunderstood. He won’t talk much. He won’t smile. He’ll just stare into the middle distance. Again, this tells me nothing about the scent. Is it woodsy? Clean? Spicy? Does it smell like a beach? A midlife crisis? These are important details.

So here we are, stuck indoors, thawing fingers wrapped around steaming mugs, watching advertisements that assure us we could be living far more glamorous, dangerous, motion-filled lives—if only we purchased the right fragrance. Meanwhile the guys pace the living room like retired quarterbacks, waiting for March to rescue them with brackets and blind optimism.

Maybe winter wouldn’t feel so long if the commercials were more honest.

Show me someone wrapped in a heated blanket trying to open a bag of microwave popcorn without moving their shoulders. Show me someone whose biggest accomplishment is swapping pajama pants for different pajama pants. Show me a sports fan staring into the abyss of mid-February, whispering, “Is… golf on?”

Until then, I’ll be here, surviving the longest season of the year, waiting for spring, wanting the sun to still be visible when I’m in the school pickup line, and ignoring every ad that tells me my destiny involves a mountain, a Frenchman whispering “oui,” or a man wandering the living room lost without football.

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