My Jarrell Monthly • August 2023

EDITOR'S NOTE | CAMY REYNOLDS

Dear Readers,

PUBLISHERS

Mike Payne

COMMUNITY EDITOR Camy Reynolds

Camy is a native Texan and mom of three who has lived in Jarrell since 2009. She serves her community as a director on the Sonterra MUD Board, is on the board for the Jarrell Education Foundation, on the District and Igo's Educational Improvement Committees, and founded the local Facebook group Mom Tribe Jarrell that has just under 2,000 members.

COMMUNITY LIAISON Janet Hage

Janet Hage has been part of the Jarrell community for almost 30 years. She has been involved in community fundraisers, campaigns, and committees; volunteered with JISD, and worked for the City for more than seven years. She is a development partner of NW Wilco, LLC and serves on the Community Library Board of Directors. Janet focuses her energy on serving, giving back, and uniting the community in positive ways.

SENIOR WRITERS/COPY EDITORS

Ann Marie Kennon • Charlotte Kovalchuk

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda A. Thornton

Rachel Strickland

GRAPHICS & DESIGN

Sandra Evans • Zion Eaton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christianna Bettis

DIRECTOR OF SALES • Allison Smith

IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne

CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

info@myjarrell.com 512-746-4545

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All rights reserved. MyJarrellMonthly is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in the 76537 zip code. Mail may be sent to My Jarrell, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537. Email: info@myjarrell.com

As the heat of the dog days of summer begin to give way to ... well, the heat of a new school year, we are pleased to share stories that celebrate the spirit of community, service, and growth. From safety to celebrations, we have a range of friendly topics we hope will intrigue and inspire you.

Diving first into community news, join us as we welcome principals Craig Wilson and Daniella Ogundare to Double Creek Elementary and Jarrell Middle School, respectively. These new and energetic leaders are already reaching out in the community with fresh perspectives, determined to shape young minds and cultivate environments that foster creativity, curiosity, and inclusivity in our ISD.

We are also delighted to announce the launch of our ISD’s new police department. As a parent, I am reassured to see our school district’s commitment to student safety align with my own. I look forward to its future growth and many positive interactions between our kiddos and the new law enforcement team.

If you’re ready for a family day out, save the date for Holy Trinity church’s legendary annual bazaar on September 17. This special event has long been a cherished tradition within our community, bringing together friends and families for a day filled with food and fellowship.

Another story we love is about Lee McDaniel—the remarkable lady with the warm smile in the rotunda of the Williamson County Historical Courthouse. When she is not helping citizens and visitors, she is a passionate advocate and a legal paraprofessional who has devoted her time and expertise to help veterans and first responders navigate the complexities of preparing essential legal documents for free.

As always, our mission is to inform, entertain, and strengthen the bonds of our community. We hope the stories in this August issue will accomplish just that.

As

KIDS' ZONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Providing a Lifetime of Learning, Leadership, and Spiritual Growth

Kids' Zone Christian Academy in Jarrell, Texas, a thriving institution offering certified elementary education for kindergarten through fourth grade, is growing again in response to an emergent demand. The school is set to expand its program and premises, moving to a new location, and enhancing its curriculum to provide the full elementary experience for junior kindergarten through fifth grade.

Kids’ Zone owner and general manager Whitney Hicks says, "Our goal is to blend all the benefits of a public setting within a more intimate environment. We have been planning this for 3-4 years, and the need for a private school with a Christian aspect and smaller class settings in the community is evident."

The academy, currently housed in a two-story building with five classrooms at 104 Copper Lane, has seen steady growth over the years. Initially, there were 35 students, but this number surged to 62 last year and is projected to rise to 102 this coming school year. Whitney says construction is ongoing but students will have everything they need, including a fully equipped playground ready for the first day of school August 16.

AS KIDS' ZONE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY GROWS, SO DOES ITS COMMITMENT TO INSTILL LOVE, RESPECT, AND A THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE IN EVERY STUDENT, FULFILLING ITS MISSION TO SPREAD THE LIGHT OF CHRIST AND PROVIDE AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE CHILDREN ARE LOVED FIRST, AND THEN EDUCATED.

A SCHOOL WITH A VISION

The new campus will feature a 16,000-square-foot, regulation-sized gym, and a 10-classroom complex. These modern facilities, designed with a vintage aesthetic, will continue to host programs like PE, Spanish, music, and art, supplemented by a robust Bible curriculum. Whitney adds their long-term goal is to continue building and add a permanent building and possibly a standard track with all the amenities. “It is a work in progress,” she says. “But the 4.5 acres near Double Creek Elementary has given us the freedom to build and dream, and we are looking forward to providing after-school childcare for JISD students as well. We are thankful to have a wonderful working relationship with Superintendent Dr. Hicks and we love to be a part of working for the greater good of all children.”

EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES

This move also creates opportunities for collaboration with other schools in the region. With accreditation from the National Association of Private Schools, students can now participate in local sporting events. In addition, the school will incorporate a science lab and a computer lab and there are plans for a library in the permanent structure to come, reflecting the school's focus on holistic education.

Moreover, the expansion will mean new employment opportunities for teachers, assistants, cafeteria workers, and coaches. Plus, as a community-centric institution, Kids' Zone Christian Academy will make its full-sized gym available for local events and clubs.

MAINTAINING QUALITY, NURTURING BONDS

Whitney emphasizes, "The focus remains on individual attention, ensuring that no child feels like 'just a number'. As many parents expressed a desire to keep their children at Kids' Zone, we felt the need to add the fourth and fifth grades. Our mantra is simple – we love them first, then we educate them. We see ourselves as a home-schooling hub within a certified environment, providing a safe and comfortable setting for learning." So, despite their growth, Whitney is determined to preserve its intimate and nurturing environment and teachers will continue to know each student one-on-one, catering to their specific needs.

With a trusted management team and a head of school who personally handles each parent inquiry and enrollment, Kids' Zone Christian Academy is ready for this expansion. Everyone is awaiting the new school year with great excitement and fervor and, while confident in their execution and progress, Whitney asks simply that the community join her in praying for a successful year.

BRIDGING PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

As it always has been, Kids’ Zone’s expansion is a testament to founder Donna Brown’s love for teaching. "My mom was a master teacher and loved the kids," Whitney shares. "As I venture beyond nurturing and supporting our kiddos into areas like building codes and the relative strengths of different re-bar types—things I never imagined I would become immersed in—I know she is proud of my growth too, and I feel closer to her. This expansion helps fulfill my mission of spreading the love of Christ, and I am excited to see where this journey takes us."

“My son was already pleased with how Kids’ Zone functions as a school and he is excited to have even more opportunity available to him. It is such a blessing, and we are so excited for him because I know he’s just going to thrive. Adding these new areas and programs will just make him that much more excited to go to school every day. It’s a blessing for me that he enjoys being there.”

~ Camy Reynolds

Classes have a maximum of 16 students, but some spaces remain. To learn more about enrollment or arrange a personal tour of the school, scan the code, or contact Ashley Sigafoos, Head of School.

104 COPPER LANE, JARRELL, TEXAS 76537 512.595.1080

ADMIN@KIDSZONECHRISTIANACADEMY.COM

by Ann Marie Kennon photos courtesy Kids' Zone

NEW PLACES •FRESH FACES

JISD OPENS 2023/24 YEAR WITH NEW DOUBLE CREEK ELEMENTARY CAMPUS AND TWO NEW PRINCIPALS

by Rachel Strickland

Exciting changes are on the horizon for Jarrell ISD, including two new principals who are thrilled for the start of the new school year and the opportunities it will bring.

Craig Wilson, the new principal of Double Creek Elementary, is beginning his 28th year in education and brings 12 years of experience as a principal to the job. Most recently, he was the director of digital learning in Temple but realized he missed being on a school campus. “When the opportunity came up to open a new school in Jarrell, I jumped on it,” he says.

Principal Wilson has taught many different grade levels but most of his experience is at the elementary level – where his passion lies. “It’s those formative years where you have the opportunity to set the kids on a path for greatness from the beginning,” he says. “You’re not

having to undo bad habits, and you get the chance to set that foundation for success.”

He says he loves the small-town feel of Jarrell and how friendly everyone is. “I have not met one person who isn’t just super nice and positive.”

Double Creek Elementary is a new campus for Jarrell ISD and is on target to open by the beginning of August. As its first principal, Mr. Wilson has had a front-row seat to watch its progress from the ground up. “It’s been wonderful working with the architect and the engineers,” he says.

In the upcoming school year, he is hoping to establish a positive culture in the school and the community. “I’m excited about getting to know the kids and the teachers and how Jarrell operates—not just the school district, but the city itself,” he says. “I want to build a sense of community beyond our walls.”

Parents who wish to get involved with the school can join the newly founded PTO, which will provide opportunities to volunteer in classrooms and suggest other initiatives to benefit the students and school.

Photos courtesy JISD

NEW PRINCIPAL TAKES THE HELM AT JARRELL MIDDLE SCHOOL

EDUCATION

Daniella Ogundare is also joining the Jarrell ISD family as Jarrell Middle School’s new principal. She has dedicated 18 years to education and, during that time, she has been a middle school math teacher, coach, administrator, instructional coach, and director of student services.

Although Ms. Ogundare has worked in other small school districts, she finds Jarrell to be unique as a close-knit community. “Even if people don’t have kids in the school district, they still support us and come out to events,” she says.

This year, she hopes to incorporate new, more restorative discipline practices – a type of preventative measure for handling misbehaving students. It is also a way, she adds, to reintegrate students into the school system while also helping stop the cycle of negative behaviors.

Principal Ogundare encourages parents to get involved by joining the PTO. “We’re a team,” she says. “We are all in this together. The parents, teachers, and administrators are working as a team, and we have an open-door policy.”

A new principal isn’t the only new addition to Jarrell Middle School—the kids can look forward to a new wing and athletic area. “I’m excited about the new year and starting fresh,” Principal Ogundare says. “We have a lot of new systems, there’s a new wing, and we have a lot of new staff. I’m just excited for the entire year.”

What is junior kindergarten?

Our junior kindergarten is an accelerated pre-k class that was developed for children who “just miss” the birthday cut-off (age 5 by Sept 1st) for kindergarten. During your child’s year in junior kindergarten they will build foundational phonics and math skills while developing a love for learning through student-led inquiry and hands-on activities!

*Phonics and STEAM based curriculums

*Academic instruction alighted with the TEKS

About our School

*Focus on Biblical character trait building

*Weekly Bible study and monthly school-wide Chapel

*16:1 student-teacher ratio

*Fine Arts program

*Field trips

*Community engagement

Does my child meet the criteria for junior kindergarten?

To qualify for junior kindergarten students must mee the following criteria:

*Will turn 5 between Sept. 2nd and Dec. 31st of the current school year.

*Has completed a pre-k program prior to enrollment OR been assessed by administration and granted admission

At the heart of Kids’ Zone Christian Academy is Christ! We strive to give our students a strong academic foundation while preparing them for life as a Christian leader with a heart for service!

Beginning in junior kindergarten, our students are exposed to a wide vartiety of educational experiences taught through a combination of traditional instruction, inquiry based learning, and hands-on activities.

Charter development and social-emotional education are also integral to our program. We integrate Conscious Discipline throughout our school and implement a Biblical character trait curriculum to encourage and promote the developtment of positive, Christ-like character.

Class sizes are kept at a 16:1 student to teacher ratio. Small classroom ratios are imperative to providing each of our learners with differetiated instruction through small groups and one-on-olne learning.

Along with academic studies, student life is enriched with Physical Education (P.E.), Music, Art, and Chapel.

Kids’ Zone Christian Academy currently serves students junior kindergarten through fourth grade.

OVERPRICING YOUR HOME & THE IMPLICATIONS

UNDERSTAND THE POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS OF OVERPRICING

• LIMITED BUYER INTEREST: Overpricing your home can deter potential buyers from even considering it. Buyers have access to market information and can quickly identify an overpriced property. As a result, your home may sit on the market for an extended period, reducing your chances of a timely sale.

• MISSED OPPORTUNITIES: Pricing your home too high can cause you to miss out on potential offers or more favorable terms. Buyers who may have been interested in your home often move on to other properties with more reasonable prices.

• NEGOTIATION DISADVANTAGE: Overpricing can put you in a weaker negotiation position. Buyers may use the inflated price as leverage to negotiate a lower purchase price, increasing the likelihood of concessions on your end.

• APPRAISAL CHALLENGES: If a buyer obtains financing for your home, the lender will require an appraisal. If your home is overpriced, the appraisal may come in lower than the agreed-upon sales price. This can lead to financing issues and potentially derail the entire sale.

• CARRYING COSTS: The longer your home stays on the market, the more you'll incur carrying costs such as mortgage payments, insurance, taxes, and maintenance. These expenses can quickly accumulate and eat into your potential profits.

AVOIDING THE PITFALLS

• PRICE IT RIGHT: Research comparable homes in your area to determine a realistic and competitive asking price. Consulting with a local real estate agent can provide valuable insights into current market trends and appropriate pricing.

• HIGHLIGHT VALUE: Focus on the unique features, upgrades, or improvements that set your home apart from others. Emphasize the value these aspects bring to justify your asking price.

• PRESENTATION MATTERS: Ensure your home is in its best condition for potential buyers. Staging, decluttering, and making necessary repairs can help justify your asking price.

• MARKETING STRATEGY: Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that showcases your home's strengths and reaches the right target audience. Hiring an experienced real estate agent can greatly assist in creating an effective marketing campaign.

• NEGOTIATE WISELY: Be open to negotiation, but also be firm on your bottom line. Consider all aspects of the offer, not just the purchase price, to find an agreement with the buyer. If you're unsure about pricing your home or need assistance throughout the selling process, reach out to a trusted real estate professional who can help you navigate the market, attract qualified buyers, and ultimately achieve a successful sale.

lara.ingalsbe@outlook.com

LaraIngalsbe.com

UPWARDS PRESCHOOL

ENROLL NOW FOR FALL

YOUTH & K4C

Resumes August 2nd!

Wednesdays

6:00 - 8:00 pm

Ages 1 - 5 Years

Tues & Thurs, 8am– 2pm

FALL FESTIVAL

Sat., Oct. 28th

1:00—4:00pm

Trunk or Treat, Food, Games, Family Fun, & more!

Iglesia Conexión

Domingos @ 10:00AM

801 CR 314

Jarrell, TX 76537

Congratulations to our friends as they continue to grow God’s Kingdom!

Fun, Games, Dinner, Worship, Bible Time, Friends & More!

We can’t wait to see you!

YOUTH

6th - 12th Grade

Every Wednesday

KIDS 4 CHRIST

1st - 5th Grade

First Wed. of the Month

New Police Presence in Jarrell ISD

by Rachel Strickland

Families are gearing up for a new school year and, for many parents, that means a shift in the daily concern for their children’s safety and wellbeing. However, parents of students enrolled in Jarrell ISD may rest a little easier this year knowing each school in the district will have a police officer stationed on campus.

Sharif Mezayek was appointed chief of the new Jarrell ISD police department, having previously served in the same role in Liberty Hill ISD. “We’re thrilled Chief Mezayek is leading our police department,” Superintendent Dr. Toni Hicks says. “He’s an exceptional law enforcement officer with 29 years of experience. His leadership skills and passion are what we need to launch the district’s police department.”

Chief Mezayek is in the process of hiring at least five officers who will be stationed at Jarrell High School, middle, and elementary schools, but the number of officers stationed on each

campus is likely to increase over time as the police department grows.

INCREASED SAFETY

The school police initiative was driven by an upcoming legislative bill and push by school administrators for increased safety and security. “Our legislators just passed House Bill 3, which requires some kind of armed security at every school,” Chief Mezayek says. “We just got a little bit of a head start to that.”

Superintendent Hicks adds, “Forming a Jarrell ISD police department is delivering on our commitment to our families and staff. Safety and security are a top priority. We’ve already implemented additional security measures for the new school year and starting an ISD police department will further enhance our security.”

Chief Mezayek says while officers will be in school zones and at bus stops ensuring traffic safety, their main priority will be to get to know the kids and ensure their safety. “They will be checking campuses and making sure everyone is safe and seen,” he says. According to Chief Mezayek, ISD police officers will have jurisdiction over the kids even when they are outside

Jarrell city limits on school trips. “We get to know the kids and the kids get to know us. We build a bond with them to the point they feel comfortable coming to us when they have issues. We also build relationships with the community, parents, and teachers, so they feel comfortable, too. It’s really a good program.”

The chief will have an officer permanently assigned to each campus, allowing each the chance to get to know the teachers and kids on a more personal level. Chief Mezayek says the ISD police officers ultimately answer to the superintendent and will not be called away to patrol the streets or help with special assignments like a regular Jarrell police officer would.

He adds that the ISD police department is still being assembled. “I’m the only one here right now,” he says. “Once we get up and running, we will start hiring, then the officers will go into the schools.” In the meantime, he wants parents to know the officers will be there as a resource. “Our doors are always open to the parents and kids. I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I am really enjoying getting to know our community.”

Holy Trinity Church’s Annual Bazaar

The Centerpiece of Corn Hill

A.

Eventhe 90-year-old parishioners can’t remember a time when their church did not hold its annual bazaar. This year, Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill is celebrating 134 years as a parish, along with the 109th anniversary of its stately Gothic church. For decades, families from all over Central Texas have shared the tradition of attending the church’s yearly fundraiser together.

Held annually on the third Sunday in September (this year it’s September 17 - see ad on facing page for details) the event begins at 11am on the church grounds and runs all day. Admission to the event is free, and there will be separate fees for games and food.

Live polka music will provide a festive touch as children line up for train rides and games, and adults may try their luck at the silent auction, bingo, and raffle featuring 24 items— including a $1,000 VISA card.

All guests are encouraged to bring a big appetite as parishioners are particularly proud of their recipes and take their cooking seriously. Their famous barbecue and Corn Hill fried chicken dinners will be served and they will also offer kolaches, a cakewalk, and ice cream — all homemade. Then, to round out the festivities, a live auction and raffle drawing will be held in the afternoon.

Established by the Czech ancestors of some of the current parishioners, members have a strong devotion to the church and to Fr. Stephen Nesrsta, who has served the parish for the past 10 years. He’s worked hard to keep the

parishioners connected, including livestreaming Masses for the duration of the pandemic. Additionally, the congregation eagerly anticipates the yearly Czech Mass, in February, as it offers a delightful experience of readings and music entirely in the Czech language.

Agnes Brousseau, bazaar chairperson, says she brings the virtues of patience and persistence learned as a parent to her demanding position. She makes sure to find a spot for everyone — young and old — who wish to volunteer, making sure they are made to feel welcome as a part of the com munity and the church family while they unite on this labor of love.

Scan the code for more information about Holy Trinity.

“JUST ASKING OTHERS TO HELP PROVIDES THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO SO”

- AGNES BROUSSEAU, BAZAAR CHAIRPERSON

by Linda

Thornton · photos courtesy of Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill

Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill

ANNUAL BAZAAR

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2023

Mass at 10:30am followed by a meal & festivities at the Parish Activity Center

COUNTRY DINNER 11AM - 1PM

BBQ & Corn Hill Fried Chicken, Dressing & All the Fixin’s! $15 Adults / $7 Children

Drive-Thru Available (11am-12:30pm)•BBQ by the Pound (8am-Noon)•Hamburgers at 2:30pm

AN AFTERNOON OF FAMILY FUN!

LIVE POLKA MUSIC!•Kolache Sale & Cake Walk•BINGO & Silent Auction•Children’s Games & Ice Cream

LIVE AUCTION 1:30pm - Inside PAC Building

Auctioneers:

Buddy Johnson (LIC# TXS-6520)

Harvey Johnson (LIC# AUCTNR-00012401)

RAFFLE Tickets only $3 / 6 for $15 Grand Prize: $1,000 Visa Cards

24 Great Prizes Valued at $6,500 Need not be present to win

8626 FM 1105, JARRELL•512-863-3020

JARRELL’S

KARAOKE WITH ROCKY THUR 8:30PM & SAT 9:30PM

PATIO SEATING

POKER TOURNAMENTS - MONDAY 7PM & SUNDAY - 1PM - FREE TO ENTER FOLLOW

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE OTHERS

by Linda A. Thornton

Befriending a homeless Korean War veteran years ago, Lee McDaniel still remembers how startled she was to realize how much help he needed and how lost he felt, not knowing where to turn.

With an associate degree in the paralegal field and having worked as a paralegal/legal assistant since 1991, most of Lee’s experience at various law firms consisted of preparing documents like wills and medical directives.

Lee began her career in Williamson County as a corrections officer back in 2017. In 2021, she was hired to be the information aide at Williamson County’s Historic Courthouse and says she feels privileged to work in such a beautiful environment directing visitors to the proper county departments. In this new role and when assisting at the Veteran Services Office, she has had the opportunity to get to know many who have served our country. This new interaction with veterans inspired Lee and gave her an idea.

She now prepares basic wills and medical directives at no charge for Williamson County veterans, first responders, and their family members, regardless of where they live. She also became a Texas Notary Public and offers those services for free as well. With some basic information, she is able to prepare most documents in about five minutes.

BASIC LEGAL DOCUMENTATION

The free, simple will Lee prepares essentially documents an individual’s final desires regarding the distribution of his or her assets and designates an executor to oversee the fulfillment of those wishes. Should a person die without a will, decisions about the estate are left in the hands of judges or state officials, which is an expensive and complicated process.

A medical directive—or living will—is a legal document that contains instructions about a person’s health care decisions, such as preference for a DNR (do not resuscitate) order.

Having a document notarized is an official fraud-deterring process that assures the signature on a document is genuine and the signer did so of his or her own free will.

Now, 90 wills later, Lee is on a mission to remind everyone that planning ahead is the right thing to do. People tend to put off doing things that are uncomfortable, but she graciously makes the process less intimidating, offering one of the best gifts you can leave your loved ones peace of mind.

For more information about her free services, contact Lee directly at leemcdaniel994@gmail.com.

MORE AREA ASSISTANCE FOR VETERANS

Honorably discharged veterans living in Williamson County may apply for emergency financial assistance with rent/mortgage, burial services, utilities and food. The online application is not yet available, but you may apply in person at the Veteran Services Office located inside the Georgetown Annex, 100 Wilco Way, Georgetown.

photo courtesy: Virginia Casas

Call it chicken soup for the world-weary soul, it’s also some of my biggest irony of the 2020s so far. Part of my New Year's resolution every year is to adapt my lifestyle to reflect the 1920s every now and then. This plan was designed to ensure a few minutes every day, or longer when possible, that I would unplug and enjoy some disconnected quiet—read a (paper) book, plant something, or play the piano. I have to stop short of cooking over an open fire... my grilled food is difficult to distinguish from the charcoal. Anyway, cutting off the endless supply of ego-fed opinions, fake or not-fake fake news, and considering we are already talking about the 2024 election, more than ever I need to indulge in healthy mental vacations that will reset my emotional barometer.

The irony comes from the serotonin boost I get from stuff I discovered on the Internet that has provided me with more laughter and relief than I can remember seeing or reading for many, many months now.

Of course, I will share them with you, in case, like me, you only have a few minutes a day and you are desperately trying to figure out how to manage all your clients’ business Facebook pages without having to actually look at Facebook.

If you occasionally laugh or smile at my columns, you might have the same sense of humor and you won’t mind watching these things over and over because they’re still funny the 10th time.

So find yourself some #TatumTalks videos on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. He's gotten pretty big since I first followed him—as in I-have-aTatum-calendar-on-my-wallnow big. No need to write in about TikTok being the devil and all its security issues—I know. But all social media is

Is It Still "Wasting Time" If I'm Laughing?

tracking everything we do so if you’re communicating on any one of those platforms, you’re already on the call list for the “your social security number is being used by drug cartels in Mexico, so send us $600 to stop it” scammers. Even Bank of America is tattling to the FBI about customers who use their debit card for “suspicious” purchases. At least TikTok is fun.

First of all, most TikTok videos are less than 60 seconds in length so they totally feed my short attention span, unlike YouTube where I start by intelligently looking for videos about marketing techniques and a half-hour later I’m watching a 12-minute mini-documentary about haunted houses.

Anyway, you’ll either love it or maybe you won't get it. But it might give you a giggle today, and may likely leave you craving Dunkin' Donuts, blueberries, or chicken nuggets.

After that, I head on over to MeWe.com for the “Clean Comedy” group. Imagine scrolling through a never-ending feed of memes that are really funny, clever, and generally original, but never use bad language, contain almost no politics, and make you feel smart when you understand the word play.

<< This one is funny because it’s true. (MeWe.com)

If you’re still not convinced, find #DanielLabelle and watch any of his video compilations, particularly “If People Did Things Aggressively.” As I write this, my dog is freaking out because, checking for the correct hashtag, I found his newest “How People of Different Ages Take Selfies” and I have been ugly-laughing for 10 minutes. Seriously, Daniel and Tatum's 34 million followers can't be wrong.

Sure, this is not medical or legal advice, but at least for right now, I’m in a great mood.

I have tried many

and have had the good fortune to meet many good practitioners. Dr. Taryn stands out from most because of her intuitive and healing approach. Her adjustments are gentle and I always feel great afterwards. She has helped me develop better posture and body awareness with the exercises and stretching techniques she has shown me. She is the only one I use now and I highly recommend her!

JARRELL FIREFIGHTERS LEAD WILCO GRASS FIRE RESPONSE

When a grass fire started on Cobb Creek Road in Georgetown on July 19, more than 25 agencies from Williamson, Bell, and Travis counties and the state teamed up on the extinguishing effort that Jarrell Fire Chief Ron Stewart calls an example of successful planning, training, and coordination.

Jarrell Fire Captain Matt Whisenant and Jarrell Fire Marshall Bobby Belcher took initial command since the fire, which burned a total of 286 acres, was in Jarrell’s response district. Chief Stewart says, “The planning, cooperation, collaboration, and successful execution from fire, law enforcement, EMS, forestry service, office of emergency management, and dispatchers illustrated the day-in-and-day-out commitment our first responders have for those we serve. The system worked as practiced and planned to work, and on behalf of Jarrell Fire and Rescue we thank each person who came running to assist when we called. We can assure them that we will do the same when they call for help from us.”

Chief Stewart thanked citizens and businesses that supported their fire crews, including Staccato 2011 firearms company, which provided rehab areas and food, as well as 1-800 BoardUp and H-E-B on Williams and DB Wood, which provided supplies for the crews. “And our citizens, like always, provided us with donations of food, water, and Gatorade to keep the crews going.”

FIRE SAFETY

As the cause of the Cobb Creek Fire was sparks from a welding tool, Chief Stewart urges residents to follow safety precautions when it comes to hot work in these dry conditions. Additionally, the current burn ban prohibits burning in all areas of Williamson County. The order urges caution when it comes to outdoor welding, cutting, or grinding.

Plus:

 Ensure the metal work area is free of vegetation.

 Notify the local fire department of planned metal work.

 Have a fire extinguisher nearby.

 Have another person on the lookout for sparks that could cause a fire.

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy ESD #5

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON JARRELL, TX

We are a full-service veterinary practice that provides comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for the furry members of your family. We believe in providing thorough and caring clinical services to every animal we meet and we are proud to enhance this care with upgraded, state-of-the-art equipment and diagnositcs at our new, larger facility. We hope to serve you and your pets soon, and help keep them healthy for years to come.