Issuu

JANUARY 2026

MY M AGA ZINE

U N I T I N G

7 6 5 3 7

is now

76537Life

YOUR DESIGN HERE

Help create the new logo for 76537 Life Our community represents every generation—and we want your ideas to shape what comes next. DETAILS ON PAGE 6

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

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WHO WE ARE

This past year, My Jarrell had the privilege of sharing so many meaningful stories from right here in our community. We highlighted neighbors helping neighbors, welcomed new businesses to town, shined a spotlight on local churches doing incredible work, and celebrated many wins for our school district. Time and time again, we were reminded that this is more than just a place to live—it’s a place built on connection, pride, and heart. As proud as I am of what 2025 brought, I’m even more excited for what 2026 holds. Whether this is the year you finally stick to that New Year’s resolution, prioritize your health, pick up a new hobby, learn to say no, or simply slow down a bit, I hope the year ahead helps you learn more about yourself and deepen your understanding of others. 2026 is all in what we make it— and I fully plan to make it a good one!

Camy Reynolds

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Janet Hage

SENIOR WRITER / COPY EDITOR

Ann Marie Kennon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda A. Thornton • Charlotte Kovalchuk GRAPHICS Ann Marie Kennon • Sandra Evans • Marilee Goldoni CONSULTANT

W. Ben Daniel

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER

Jesse Payne

ADVERTISING

512.746.4545 • info@myjarrell.com

76537 Life is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.

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Cheers to 2026!

MENTION MY JARRELL MONTHLY

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

COMMUNITY EDITOR

Copyright © 2026 All rights reserved. 76537 Life is published monthly and mailed USPS, free of charge, to homes and businesses in the 76537 zip code. Mail may be sent to 76537 Life, P.O. Box 213, Jarrell, TX 76537. Email: info@myjarrell.com

Here’s to a fresh year and a strong community.

Cathy Payne • Mike Payne

PUBLISHERS

s we step into a brand-new year, I can’t help but wonder how 2025 moved by so quickly. It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming the year with excitement, and now here we are—reflecting, grateful, and looking ahead with hope.

J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

CONTENT

JANUARY FEATURES 6 / "76537 LIFE" IS MORE THAN A NAME CHANGE

7 / MEET OUR TEAM 10 / RESETTING YOUR HEALTH WITH MICROHABITS 13 / THE BACKYARD NATURE COMEBACK

COLUMNS

8 / THE REAL DEAL • INSIDER Q&A ABOUT 76537 16 / TEXAS SIT-REP • HIGHER EDUCATION REFORM PT 2 20 / KIDS & EDUCATION • MANAGING SOCIAL MEDIA 23 / WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS" • TEXAS HOLD 'EM 26 / NEIGHBOR LEIGH • CABIN FEVER SEASON 28 / PARTING SHOT • DECEMBER IN 76537

ASK A PRO FEATURED PROFESSIONALS Meet our Pros — industry 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.

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J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

76537 LIFE

MORE THAN A NAME CHANGE Help Us Design the New Look

n 2012, when Fidelis Publishing Group began writing about hometown people and events in the Jarrell Star Ledger newspaper, there were just under 1,100 residents living in the city limits, and Sonterra had not yet been recognized as a census-designated place. In 2021, when we printed our first issue of My Jarrell Monthly, we mailed to a still small but close-knit community of about 4,200 homes.

As part of our transition from My Jarrell to 76537 Life, we’re inviting the community to help shape what comes next—starting with the logo. A name that belongs to everyone deserves a visual identity that reflects the people who live here, and we believe the best ideas often come from those who know the community best.

In 2026, this zip code is home to more than 20,000 residents. New neighborhoods have popped up, families arrived in search of affordability, great schools, and opportunity. Long-anticipated retail and services followed. Schools have expanded, infrastructure has evolved, and a growing business community is reshaping the landscape. At the same time, our rural roots remain unmistakable. Working ranches and open pastures still sit within sight of future storefronts, offering a reminder that growth here has never been about erasing the past—it’s about building on it.

We’re launching a logo design contest and welcoming creative submissions from readers, designers, students, and anyone with an idea for how 76537 Life should look. Inspiration can come from Jarrell’s rural roots, its rapid growth, its small-town character, or the way all of those elements coexist. Written descriptions, simple sketches, and fully developed designs are equally welcome.

Throughout all of it, one thing has remained true: JARRELL AND SONTERRA ARE DEEPLY CONNECTED.

Submissions may be sent in any digital format, including PDFs, JPGs, PNGs, or editable design files. All entries will be reviewed by the 76537 Life staff, who will ultimately select the logo direction that best represents the magazine and the community it serves. While we appreciate every submission, final selection decisions will be made at the staff’s discretion, and all decisions are final. We recognize that creativity comes in many forms. Submissions that are inappropriate or not suitable for a community publication will not be considered. Our focus is on gathering thoughtful, community-minded ideas that put a polish on the final brand. All logo design ideas should be submitted to camy@myjarrell.com no later than February 16, 2026. This is an opportunity for readers to take part in shaping the next chapter of 76537 Life, and we look forward to seeing the creativity and perspective our community has to share.

Though Interstate 35 may create a physical divide, our daily lives overlap in every meaningful way. Our children attend the same schools. We shop at the same stores. We worship at the same churches. We show up to the same community events. Whether a business sits on one side of a boundary line or the other, it serves and thrives because of the entire community. That shared reality is what led us to this name change. 76537 Life reflects the one identifier that unites everyone who lives, works, learns, and does business here: the zip code. It allows us to tell stories that represent the whole community—not one side of I-35, not one neighborhood, not one perspective, but the life here that we all share. This change is not about ignoring or erasing identities. Jarrell is still Jarrell. Sonterra is still Sonterra.

BUT TOGETHER, WE ARE 76537 ! As our community has grown, so has this publication. Today, 76537 Life reaches 9,600 homes, with an average of 100 new addresses added monthly, which is a true reflection of the growth happening all around us. From our earliest days covering the community as the Jarrell Star Ledger, to the launch of My Jarrell, to 76537 Life, our mission has remained consistent: to document, celebrate, and connect the people who call this place home. Behind the scenes, our team of writers, designers, contributors, and community partners has evolved alongside the area we serve. People like Charlotte Kovalchuk, Linda Thornton, Steve Fought, Chrisianna Bettis, Marilee Goldoni, and many others have helped shape this publication over the years, bringing local insight, creativity, and care to every issue. We’ve grown because the community has grown and we intend to continue growing with it. 76537 Life exists to reflect the full picture of our shared community, be a catalyst for unity, and tell stories that matter to everyone because what is good for Jarrell is good for Sonterra, and vice versa. Growth may bring change, but it also brings opportunity.

OUR GOAL IS TO CAPTURE THE MOMENTS WHERE PAST AND FUTURE MEET AND SHARE THE STORIES THAT CONNECT US ALL. 6

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

76537 LIFE

Meet Our Team

From seasoned leadership to next-generation creatives, 76537 Life brings together Boomer, Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z voices. That generational mix allows us to reflect the past, present, and future of a community that continues to grow and evolve.

PUBLISHER, MIKE PAYNE More than 17 years ago, Mike chose to put down roots in Williamson County. From the beginning, Mike recognized Jarrell’s potential—and the importance of media that reflects local values, encourages civic engagement, and tells stories that matter to the people living in them while supporting and advocating for the growing business communities of the region. Mike is known for his entrepreneurial mindset and constant stream of new ideas. FUN FACT: Over his entrepreneurial lifespan, Mike has owned a furniture store, a restaurant, a mini golf course, and a bike tour company.

PUBLISHER, CATHY PAYNE Cathy has been telling Jarrell's story for over 15 years. She first connected with the community in 2010, when she helped found Jarrell's first local newspaper. That legacy broadened with the launch of My Jarrell Monthly in 2021 and will continue to grow with 76537 Life. Cathy's focus is building media that feels personal, trusted, and rooted—so readers know she's invested not just in telling our local story, but in being part of it. FUN FACT: Cathy has a degree in biochemistry, which fuels her passion for health and natural medicine.

COMMUNITY EDITOR CAMY REYNOLDS Camy brings deep community roots and sharp operational leadership to her work. A Sonterra homeowner for 16 years, she has long been actively involved in the community, including service on the MUD board, ongoing work with the Jarrell Education Foundation, and fostering connection through a local book club, Bunco group, and the Mom Tribe Jarrell Facebook community she created. Camy also is deeply dialed in across Williamson County, giving 76537 Life a broader perspective that connects readers to the people, policies, and decisions shaping Central Texas.

WRITING & DESIGN ANN MARIE KENNON Ann Marie has been part of the area’s story since 2013, before growth was the headline. She joined Fidelis Publishing Group as it began focusing on local community storytelling and when My Jarrell launched in 2021, she became its creative backbone—shaping the magazine’s voice, design, and visual identity. FUN FACT: Ann Marie competed for college scholarship money doing stand-up comedy in the Miss America program—a skill that still comes in handy when deadlines tighten and stories need just the right voice.

DIGITAL MEDIA, JESSE PAYNE Jesse has called Williamson County home for the past 17 years and has been a homeowner in the Sonterra area for three years. He serves on the Sonterra MUD Board of Directors, where his focus is improving quality of life for residents with an emphasis on parks, recreation, and long term community amenities. Jesse also owns a live event production and lighting company, providing professional lighting design and technical production for concerts, events, and performances. FUN FACT: Jesse toured with an American Idol finalist, bringing large scale production experience from the road back to projects here at home.

GRAPHICS, SANDRA EVANS Sandy is a Central Texas native who supports 76537 Life as an advertising designer, bringing years of experience working with regional media and publishing companies. Her background gives her a strong understanding of local culture and market expectations, which translates into effective, on-brand advertising design for a wide range of products and services. FUN FACT: Sandy is a dedicated live music fan and has seen nearly 200 bands/singers perform—43 in the last year.

FUN FACT: Camy is an avid reader who finishes nearly 100 books a year. J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

THE REAL DEAL

What's the Real Deal?

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling social media wondering:

Is that actually true? Why does this keep happening?

...this new column is for you. Starting next month, Here’s the Real Deal will tackle questions and conversations specifically related to our community in Jarrell and Sonterra and we're digging in to find real, reliable answers. HOA and COA concerns parks and amenities new businesses coming to town water quality issues and other local topics. Each month, we’ll take a question submitted by readers—or one we’re seeing repeatedly online—that relates directly to life in Jarrell or Sonterra, and do the legwork to get the facts. That means reaching out to local officials, organizations, experts, and trusted sources to provide clear information, helpful context, and when possible, practical solutions. No speculation. No keyboard debates. Just the real deal.

Have a community-related question you’d like us to look into? Email us at Camy@myjarrell.com.

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

1460 CR 313 • Jarrell, TX 76537 • WWW.UPWARDS.CHURCH J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

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.

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. 10

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

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. J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

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HOME & GARDEN

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

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.

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 J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

▶ 13

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 Jarrell, 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

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.

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shade, and nesting cover.

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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

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becomes instant shelter for

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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.” 14

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

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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

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.

J A N UA R Y 2026  76537 L I F E

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. J A N UA R Y 2 0 2 6  7 6 5 3 7 L I F E

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January 2026 School Board Appreciation Month

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KIDS & EDUCATION

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nnon • p h oto by Ch r i s t i a nna Be tt i s

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

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 20

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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, negotiate words and feelings, and 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 intently 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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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 Central Texas 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 formidable 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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NEIGHBOR LEIGH

by A nn Ma r i e Ke nno n

CABIN FEVER SEASON

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. 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. 26

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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 on a date. 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 clarity. 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 spe-

cific, 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 and dirty laundry. 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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PARTING SHOTS

by Ca my Rey nolds • i m a g e c re di t Fa c e b o o k

December in 76537

December in Jarrell and Sonterra was filled with moments that reminded us just how special it is to celebrate the holidays right here at home. All across our community, the spirit of Christmas could be felt in simple, meaningful ways that brought neighbors together and created lasting memories.

From Santa stopping by the ESD #5 station to greet families and thank first responders, to enjoying breakfast with him at the Coolwater Amenity Center, these moments reflected the heart of a town that values connection, service, and tradition. Children’s smiles, festive décor, and familiar faces filled our community spaces with warmth and cheer. That same sense of togetherness was on full display at the Very Merry Jarrell Christmas Festival, which has become a beloved holiday tradition.

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Families gathered to enjoy festive activities, local vendors, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the glow of Jarrell’s beautifully decorated Christmas tree. More than just an event, it was a reminder that the holidays are best celebrated together. What made December so special wasn’t just the number of events, it was the feeling that Christmas truly lived all around our town. Here, the season isn’t something we simply observe; it’s something we experience as a community.

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76537Life P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537

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