Camy is a native Texan and mom of three who has lived in Sonterra since 2009. She serves her community as vice president of the Jarrell Education Foundation, recently served on the Rezoning Committee for JISD, was a director on the Sonterra MUD Board for five years, and founded the local Facebook group Mom Tribe Jarrell that has over 2,200 members.
COMMUNITY LIAISON Janet Hage
Janet Hage has been part of the Jarrell community for almost 30 years. She has volunteered with JISD, and worked for the City for more than seven years. She is a development partner of NW Wilco, LLC, serves on the Community Library Board of Directors, and was recently appointed to the Williamson County ESD #5 board.
SENIOR WRITERS/COPY EDITORS
Ann Marie Kennon • Charlotte Kovalchuk
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda A. Thornton
GRAPHICS & DESIGN
Sandra Evans • Marilee Goldoni
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Patrick St. Cin
IT/WEBMASTER • Jesse Payne
CONSULTANT • W. Ben Daniel
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Allison Smith allison@myjarrell.com 512-966-2164
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
WHO WE ARE
In an age where the rush of daily news often overshadows the deeper narratives that shape our community, My Jarrell Monthly 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 in 2021, My Jarrell Monthly:
Has grown with the community – we originally mailed to 4,200 homes and businesses in 76537 and now mail to over 9,200 homes and businesses monthly.
Works closely with Jarrell Independent School District, the Jarrell Chamber of Commerce, Sonterra MUD, Jarrell Economic Development Corporation, Jarrell Community Library and Resource Center, and the City of Jarrell.
Is a local business, located in Jarrell, that employs local people.
Has, to date, mailed more than 300,000 magazines within the 76537 area.
But we are also good at doing what we do — showcasing prominent community agencies and initiatives like the Jarrell Education Foundation, Jarrell Community Library, Jarrell ISD students, FFA, 4-H, and many more on our covers and in multipage 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 community leaders to the latest events and programs, our purpose is to foster a sense of pride and connection. In short, we believe My Jarrell Monthly 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.
I would like to congratulate my dad, Judge Bill Gravell, on his Presidential Appointment as the Region 6 Director for the Office of Advocacy at the Small Business Administration! Dad, your dedication to serving others and your passion for helping small businesses thrive make you perfect for this role.
I know you’ll make a tremendous impact, and I can’t wait to see all the great things you’ll accomplish!
ON THE COVER
From expanded swim lessons to fresh community programs, Sonterra's aquatic director is making waves— and there’s more to come.
by
Oro Design Group
6 10 14 16 20
COVER FEATURE
Sonterra MUD's Expanding Aquatics Programs
KIDS & EDUCATION
Meet Jarrell's New School Board President
ASK A PRO Jarrell Montessori How To Prevent Biting
21 24 28
AROUND TOWN Local Easter Events
WORTH THE DRIVE A Thrill-Filled Adventure at ZDT's Amusement Park
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. To learn more about becoming a featured pro, contact allison@myjarrell.com or 512.966.2164
HERITAGE BROADBAND
Woman-owned, Texas-based Internet service provider dedicated to bringing fast, reliable connectivity to businesses and residences in rural communities.
HeritageBroadband.com 512-548-6932
NEIGHBOR LEIGH
Sunday's Comin'
TEXAS SIT-REP Reforming Texas' Aggregate Production Permitting
FAMILY FUN Egg-cellent Easter Egg Crafts
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.
DTCTexas.com 512-887-5091
JARRELL MONTESSORI
Offering academic and loving care of children from infancy to 5 years old.
Family owned since 1939. Roofing professionals specializing in full-service roof repair, installation, and replacement.
HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579
RISEN PAWS
Allowing your pets to rise to joy and comfort one paw at a time. Provides overnight boarding, doggy day care, and drop in visits. More than 20 years experience. RisenPaws.com RisenPaws@gmail.com
Photos
by Ann Marie Kennon
MAKING A SPLASH
Sonterra MUD’s Expanding Aquatics Programs for Summer 2025
SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, AND WITH IT COMES AN EXCITING LINEUP OF AQUATICS PROGRAMS AT SONTERRA MUD. FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS TO SWIM LESSONS AND LIFEGUARD TRAINING, THE PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION IS DIVING INTO 2025 WITH EXPANDED OFFERINGS FOR ALL AGES. AQUATICS MANAGER MICHELLE WEYDERT SHARES WHAT’S NEW AND GROWING, AND WHAT RESIDENTS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER.
NEW MANAGER, NEW DIRECTION
Michelle brings 25 years of aquatics experience to her role, she was previously the aquatic supervisor for the City of Round Rock before accepting the role at Sonterra. Her journey began at 15 as a lifeguard, and she still lights up when talking about helping the next generation develop skills and confidence in and out of the water.
With a background in education and an MBA, Michelle blends her passion for teaching with business-savvy program development. “That’s the teacher in me,” she says. “And I’ve always loved mentoring younger professionals—lifeguards, pool manager, and others—as they grow in their roles and gain life experience.”
She has a strong service mindset and has volunteered with multiple youth and adult programs. She recently hired Matthew Castillo as the aquatic coordinator. With seven years of experience in aquatics, he will bring valuable expertise to the department. Michelle views members of her team as equals—“we’re team members, not just staff,” she emphasizes.
Michelle believes lifeguarding is a perfect first job for those who want to build on their swimming skills. “It’s a
positive, paid opportunity that teaches kids how to manage schedules, build résumés, and prepare for the future,” she says. “We start where they are—whether that’s shallow water certification or deep-water training—and help them grow.”
Now based in Sonterra, Michelle is excited by the community’s growth and the opportunity to create meaningful experiences for residents. “We’re here to help the community thrive. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but in just 18 months, we’ve launched several new events and programs—and there’s more to come.”
• photos by
DIVE-IN AND COOL OFF: SPECIAL EVENTS
The aquatics calendar continues to grow, and this summer is packed with family-friendly fun. Dive-In Movies are back, now alternating between Sonterra Pool and the new Cool Water Pool.
Adults-only evening at the pool
Pre–Fourth of July celebration
Back-to-school bash in August
Additional youth-centered programs may be added as new partnerships with instructors and vendors are finalized.
EXPANDED SWIM LESSONS FOR ALL AGES
One of the biggest updates this year is Sonterra MUD’s expanded swim lesson program. Previously contracted out, lessons will now be delivered in-house with structured sessions tailored by age and skill level.
Parent & Me (6 months–2 years): Water-based bonding for little ones and their caregivers.
Preschool Level 1 & 2 (Ages 3–5): Comfort and basic water safety skills.
Level 1–4 (Ages 6–12): Progressive lessons focused on technique and confidence.
Beginner Adult (Ages 13+): A supportive environment for teens and adults learning to swim.
Private Lessons (Ages 3+): One-on-one instruction available on Saturdays.
Lessons run in four two-week sessions from June through August, Tuesday through Friday at Sonterra pool. A placement assessment on day one ensures each swimmer is placed in the right level. Registration is open now on the Sonterra MUD website.
JUNIOR LIFEGUARD CAMP & LIFEGUARD TRAINING
New this year, the Junior Lifeguard Camp introduces youth ages 11–14 to the responsibilities and skills of lifeguarding, with hands-on training and leadership development.
For those ready to take the next step, Lifeguard Certification Courses will be available at a heavily discounted rate—just $60 for those who commit to working at Sonterra MUD pools (a significant drop from the typical $200 fee). Three certification sessions will be offered between April and May and Michelle is already interviewing, so interested candidates should apply now.
WATER AEROBICS & FUTURE FITNESS
Looking for a low-impact way to stay active? Water aerobics returns this summer at Cool Water Pool on Wednesday and Friday mornings for participants 15 and older. Instructors are being finalized, and the program promises a fun, effective workout.
Looking ahead, Sonterra MUD is exploring trends like aqua board workouts and VR stroke simulations, and is in the early stages of planning a Master’s swim team or recreational swim league for launch in 2026.
A COMMITMENT TO SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY
Safety is a cornerstone of Sonterra MUD’s aquatics operations. All lifeguards are American Red Cross certified, and in-season training includes weekly in-service drills in First Aid, CPR, AED use, and water rescues. Two full-time pool technicians ensure water quality meets all state health standards through daily chemical checks and maintenance.
To increase access, Sonterra MUD plans to offer adapted one-on-one swim lessons for individuals with disabilities. Certified instructors are currently being sought to lead these personalized sessions.
MAKING A SPLASH IN THE COMMUNITY
Even with limited marketing resources, Sonterra’s Parks and Recreation team is dedicated to growing awareness through fliers, social media, and a newly redesigned website. The aquatics program continues to expand—offering more ways for residents to stay safe, active, and connected.
Whether you’re looking for swim lessons, a job opportunity, or just some good old-fashioned poolside fun, Sonterra MUD has something for everyone this summer. Visit the website in April for program details and registration info— or email Michelle directly for lifeguard interview scheduling at aquatics@sonterramud.org.
Sonterra and Cool Water pools will be open to MUD residents on Memorial Day weekend.
KIDS & EDUCATION
kids & family
Oby Charlotte Kovalchuk •
Legacy of Learning and Leadership Meet JISD's New Board
President Jenny Arnold
ne of Jenny Arnold’s favorite memories of the 1916 Building is sitting in her classroom on the second floor and enjoying a view of the whole campus. “We would be upstairs in class, and we could lean out the window. It was fun to watch your classmates at baseball games and football practices on the fields.”
For more than 80 years, the 1916 Building was the only schoolhouse in Jarrell, serving K-12 students. “I was in second grade and my brothers were in junior high, all in one campus. We all got to matriculate through this building,” Jenny says. In 2024, the building underwent renovations and reopened as a school district center with a new board room, meeting space, conference room, and staff training and development areas. “This was the heart and soul of our district, and it still is. Seeing it rehabbed and turned into such a thriving part of the district makes my heart very happy.”
Sitting in the new board room for an interview with My Jarrell, she reflects on another fond memory. “Where we’re sitting right now, when I was in elementary school it was an auditorium. Then it became our high school library, and I came here to do research papers. There are so many memories I have here,” she shares. “The memories you make when you go to school in such a small community — they don’t leave you. I love that we’re a growing district but we still have that small-town value of ‘We want everyone to succeed, we want everybody to have the best and do the best.’ ”
EDUCATION ADVOCATE
Having served three terms on the board, Jenny calls her experience in the education world eye opening. “As a parent who is not in the field of teaching, I didn’t know the ins and outs of school business. It’s a labor of love and you need to be dedicated to learning.”
Together, the board’s seven-person team manages policy and budget for Jarrell’s growing school district and spends countless hours navigating information to make decisions based on data and recommendations. “The flip side to that is we spend countless hours witnessing great things happening in our district! The academic gains, expanding curriculum, the growth of extracur-
mom’s and brothers’ memories. “I was raised by hard working blue-collar parents, Brian and Gloria Woodbury, here in Jarrell. My brothers and I attended school at Jarrell since 1985. I wanted to do something because I don’t want them to be forgotten. I want to make sure that even when I’m done with school board, I want there to be a mark here that will make my kids proud.”
LEGACY OF LEARNING
As newly elected board president, that commitment drives Jenny’s vision for the district’s future. “I feel I have so much to continue doing. I plan to continue being a voice for our students and community.”
ricular activities, new and necessary facilities, witnessing the community approving bonds for future growth. Seeing students flourishing in the classroom, band, athletics, theater, AG Shop, barn — makes me excited!”
Starting the annual Woodbury Scholarship for high school students pursuing higher education has been another way for Jenny to help students thrive while honoring her
Over the rest of the school year, she hopes to see an even more successful district. “I want our teachers and administrators to know they are supported and trusted to educate America’s future. I want parents to know that everyone is doing their best to provide a safe learning environment for our children to learn and grow. Growth is going to continue to happen for our community, we can’t change that. What we can do is embrace it, do our very best to ensure we meet the needs of every student who walks through the doors at Jarrell ISD, and provide them with the tools to feel successful in their future.”
photos courtesy Jenny Arnold
Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill
Come celebrate with us for Holy Week & the Resurrection of the Lord
Holy Week Schedule
Wednesday April 16 6:30 pm
Holy Trinity Youth Ministry Presents: The Passion of Christ. Join us for a moving community performance of the Passion of Christ. Experience the story of Christ’s sacrifice through a live reenactment on the grounds of Holy Trinity. Please be prepared to walk as the performance will take place outdoors.
Holy Thursday April 17 7:00 pm
Good Friday April 18 3:00 & 7:00 pm
Holy Saturday April 19 8:30 pm
Easter Sunday April 20 Masses at 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 am
Saturday Vigil Mass 5:00 pm
Sunday Mass 7:30 am, 9:30 am & 11:30 am
ASK A PRO • CHILDREN
JARRELL MONTESSORI
Offering academic and loving care of children from infancy to 5 years old. Jarrell Montessori...Where Families Belong! JarrellMontessori.com • Director@JarrellMontessori.com
Why do children bite and what can you do to prevent it?
Biting is a normal part of development for many young children, especially between the ages of 1 to 3. While it can be upsetting, it is usually a phase that passes as children grow and learn better ways to communicate.
For many toddlers, biting is just a passing phase. Toddlers try it out as a way to get what they want from another toddler. At that age, they are in the process of learning what is socially acceptable and what is not. Eventually, the behavior stops as they use language to express difficult feelings.
Did you know there are many types of biters?
There are different reasons children bite: some do it out of curiosity (Experimental Biter), others bite because they’re teething (Teething Biter), and some might bite to get attention (Attention-Seeking Biter). There are also kids who bite when they feel threatened (Threatened Biter) or — and this is most common — when they’re frustrated (Frustrated Biter).
What can you do to prevent biting and what should you do after it happens?
When the environment is calm again, remind BOTH children involved that “Teeth are for eating, not for biting” and that instead they should say things like “No!” or “Mine!” The goal is to teach assertiveness and communication skills to both the child who bites and the child who gets bitten.
If your child is biting, read books to them about biting every day until the behavior subsides, such as Teeth Are Not for Biting by Elizabeth Verdick, Little Dinos Don’t Bite by Michael Dahl, and No Biting by Karen Katz.
Demonstrate patience with and understanding of the frustration the child is experiencing. Offer solutions like, “We have another red truck right over here. Let’s go get it.”
Comfort the child who was bitten. Immediately remove the child who bit from others and allow them to watch as you comfort the child who was bitten. It is important to give immediate attention to the child who was bitten, and NOT the biter, right after the biting occurs.
Provide comfort for the bitten child by saying something like, “I bet that hurt. You don’t like it when your friend bites your arm.”
Calmly approach the child who bit. Many times, these children feel overwhelmed and afraid after they bite. Tell them, “Teeth are for eating, not for biting. Do you see how you hurt your friend?” Point out the other child’s emotional reaction to help foster understanding that it hurt the other child.
Biting may be a normal stage of development, but that doesn’t mean it is not frustrating. Thankfully with guidance and time, it will pass.
~ By Shannon Black,
Founder/Co-Owner,
Jarrell
Montessori
(Opening 6/2, pre-enrollment opens 4/1)
SAYERS AGENCY, LLC
contributed by COL Terry Wilson, USA RET • TX District 20 Representative
Reforming Texas’ Aggregate Production Permitting
TEXAS IS GROWING, AND WITH THAT GROWTH COMES AN EVER-INCREASING DEMAND FOR CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS. SAND, GRAVEL, AND CRUSHED STONE — COLLECTIVELY KNOWN AS AGGREGATE — ARE ESSENTIAL TO BUILDING THE ROADS, BRIDGES, AND INFRASTRUCTURE THAT SUSTAIN OUR BOOMING POPULATION. HOWEVER, THE RAPID EXPANSION OF AGGREGATE PRODUCTION OPERATIONS (APOS) HAS SPARKED INTENSE DEBATE ABOUT THEIR IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH, THE ENVIRONMENT, AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES.
THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY, WHICH HAS SEEN MORE GROWTH IN APO PERMITS THAN ANY OTHER COUNTY IN TEXAS. THE CENTRAL TEXAS REGION HAS BEEN BLESSED WITH THE RESOURCES THAT HELP FUEL NEW GROWTH, BUT THOSE BLESSINGS ALSO COME WITH THE SIDE EFFECTS OF THEIR EXTRACTION.
The Problem: A Regulatory Framework that Fails Communities
The current permitting system for APOs in Texas is riddled with inconsistencies and loopholes that fail to protect residents from noise pollution, air quality degradation, groundwater disruption, and road deterioration. Unlike other industrial operations, APOs operate under a patchwork of regulations that allow them to bypass meaningful oversight. This has led to unchecked expansion near residential neighborhoods, schools, and hospitals, resulting in serious concerns about public health and quality of life.
One of the most glaring deficiencies is the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s (TCEQ) standard permit process, which prioritizes expediency over thorough evaluation. Put in place as part of a deregulation effort in 2005, these standard permits allow minimal public input and do not require ongoing air quality monitoring. This means that communities living near these sites often lack real-time data to prove the harm they are experiencing.
Key Issues and the Need for Reform
1. AIR QUALITY AND HEALTH RISKS
Dust from APOs contains fine particulate (PM10, PM2.5), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory issues, heart disease, and other serious health conditions. While the TCEQ operates regional air monitoring stations, they are not designed to assess pollution at the community level. Reforms should mandate on-site air quality monitoring to ensure compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
2. NOISE AND LIGHT POLLUTION
Constant rock crusher operation, heavy machinery, and transport trucks generate excessive noise, disturbing nearby residents. Though the industry often touts how they are “heavily regulated” on this issue, those regulations only deal with workplace safety, and many techniques used to prevent hearing damage on nearby workers simply end up bouncing loud noises into the surrounding community, rather than blocking it completely.
APOs often use explosives to break rock, shaking nearby homes and risking foundation damage if poorly managed. Their high-intensity lighting adds to skyglow and disrupts sleep. New rules should set decibel limits at property lines and require shielded, downward-facing lights to reduce light pollution.
3. ROAD SAFETY AND INFRASTRUCTURE DAMAGE
APOs rely on heavy commercial trucks for transport, causing severe wear and tear on state and local roads not typically designed to handle constant, fully loaded commercial vehicles. Every mile one of these trucks drives does $0.26 worth of damage to the roads, while contributing about $0.05 in gas taxes to repair.
When APOs open, they must show it's safe for trucks to enter roads to get a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) permit. But if traffic later increases — as it often does in fast-growing areas — TxDOT is not able to revise the driveway permit.
As a result, APOs in populated areas may have hundreds of fully loaded trucks full of rocks and gravel pulling out of their facility at a 90-degree angle with no room to accelerate before getting on the road. Driveways turn these trucks into sudden roadblocks on 60mph+ roads loaded with traffic, making them a major road hazard TxDOT is powerless to do anything about.
4. WATER USAGE
APO production requires significant volumes of water. APO quarry mines require about 50 gal/ton of aggregate processed. Water is required for dust control on quarry roads and at product crushing/sizing/storage sites. Al-
though sand mining operations may have access to surface water for these purposes, virtually all crushed stone and dimension stone operations utilize ground water for operational dust control.
According to the Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association, the Texas APO industry produced 380M tons of product in 2024, using 19 billion gallons of water, mostly from groundwater sources — equal to about 190,000 homes. APOs that operate on best practices can greatly reduce water usage by recapturing used water into retention ponds and recirculating it, but irresponsible APOs can easily drain an aquifer dry at little to no cost due to loopholes in some of Texas’s water laws.
When Williamson County is facing drought and severe water restrictions on home usage, APOs face no such restrictions. Under current law, the only recourse available to county residents to hold APOs to best practices on water use is appealing to the good will of the management of the facilities and hoping they choose to do the right thing. That must change.
4. INADEQUATE SETBACK REQUIREMENTS
Current laws require an APO to set up rock-crushing equipment at least one-quarter mile from homes, schools, and hospitals. This does not provide enough distance to prevent dust, light, and noise
pollution from affecting the surrounding community. Updating standards to onehalf mile would provide a critical buffer for public health and safety.
5. LACK OF RECLAMATION PLANS
Unlike other mining operations, when an APO shuts down, there is no compliance requirement to ensure the abandoned site is not a danger to public safety. Instituting mandatory reclamation plans, backed by financial surety bonds, would ensure former quarry sites are at least cleared of all industrial equipment, explosives, and environmental hazards, and that the large pits left behind from the removal of the rock are blocked off to prevent accidental falls.
The Path Forward: Legislative Solutions
Working with Texans from across the state over the past eight years, several key recommendations have emerged:
Mandating on-site air quality monitoring to provide real-time data on particulate matter emissions.
Establishing enforceable noise and light pollution limits that protect residential areas.
Requiring APOs to have full acceleration/deceleration lanes to provide safe traffic flow for the life of the facility.
Requiring responsible water usage with well-covered retention ponds and recirculation processes to minimize groundwater depletion.
Expanding setback requirements to ensure a safer distance between industrial operations and communities.
Implementing mandatory reclamation plans to restore land after mining activities end.
Though these reforms may seem like common sense, every legislative effort toward these reforms in the last 20 years has been defeated by the power that the APO lobby wields in the Texas Capitol. A great deal of money and influence is spent making sure no APO can be required to make even the slightest change to their operation, no matter how much disruption they may cause to the surrounding community.
But that amount of money is tiny when compared to how much money APOs receive from the state through contracts to supply building materials for roads and other public construction projects. The State of Texas is the largest customer for APOs, and it’s time we started demanding more for our tax dollars.
This session, I filed HB 1018. Instead of taking the same path of trying to regulate the industry directly, HB 1018 would create a Best Practices Certification Program for APOs, based on the practices used across the state that have shown they can produce a high-quality product at a fair price without harming the surrounding community. Contractors who don’t get their raw materials from Best Practices Certified APOs would move to the back of the line when considering potential bids for building roads and other government contracts for construction.
The 89th Texas Legislature has a unique opportunity to address these concerns through targeted reforms. The recent level of turnover, and a renewed focus on the health and safety of Texans provides a fresh start for these issues, but only if representatives at every level hear from you that these issues need to be addressed.
Despite repeated efforts in the House of Representatives, this issue has yet to
even be considered in the Texas Senate. Williamson County has two excellent senators willing to listen, but if they don’t hear from you on this issue, can we blame them if they decide it isn’t a priority? The same is true for the other representatives in Williamson County, and for the governor and lieutenant governor, as well. If we want action to be taken it requires us all to use our voices to let them know this issue matters to Williamson County.
CONCLUSION
Texas’ economic growth should not come at the expense of its residents’ well-being. The aggregate industry is vital to infrastructure development, but its expansion must be managed responsibly.
I am a firm supporter of property rights, but my rights to use my property as I see fit don’t allow me to reach over my neighbor’s property and cause harm. The state’s current permitting process does not adequately protect communities from the negative impacts of APOs, and without significant reform, Texans will continue to bear the cost of regulatory shortcomings. By strengthening oversight and accountability, Texas can create a balanced approach that supports economic growth while safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.
Hop into Easter fun with creative crafts that bring splashes of color and a little spring magic to your home — everything from whimsical bunny wreaths and embroidery art to Texas-style confetti eggs and naturally dyed eggs using ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Let’s get crafty!
Paper Eggs That Pop
Start with simple sheets of colorful paper, cut into uniform egg shapes, then fold and layer them to create delightful 3-D decorations. Add accents like glitter, handdrawn patterns, or a few swirls of watercolors for extra flair. These lightweight creations are perfect for hanging from tree branches or gathering in a decorative bowl as an adorable centerpiece that brightens up any room.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
EGG-CELLENT EASTER EGG CRAFTS
Wood Bead Bunnies
Thread colorful beads onto small rods or skewers to create tiny bunny figures, then finish them off with felt ears and a hint of paint for those adorable whiskers. These mini sculptures are ideal for scattering around your home or serving as unique accents on your Easter table.
Plastic Egg Wreath
Recycle extra plastic eggs into a vibrant wreath that becomes a focal point of your décor. Arrange the eggs in a circular pattern on a foam base, secure them with craft glue, and intersperse with greenery, ribbons, or faux flowers for texture and contrast.
Embroidery Art
Start with a simple egg outline on fabric, then have fun stitching your design—whether it’s a simple line drawing or a colorful burst of spring patterns. Once you’ve finished, pop it into a hoop and you’ve got a handmade piece of wall art that adds a personal touch to your Easter décor.
Confetti Eggs with a Texas twist
To create cascarónes, start by gently hollowing out eggs. Make a small hole at each end, shaking out the contents, and rinse the shells. Decorate them with paint, glitter, or markers. Once dry, fill the eggs with confetti and seal the hole with a small piece of paper. When cracked open, the confetti spills out, adding a burst of color to your celebration.
Tattooed Eggs
Skip the dyes and get creative with temporary tattoo decals for your eggs. Whether you opt for bold geometric patterns or delicate florals, simply press the tattoos onto dry, hard-boiled eggs for a fun and unique twist. This quick method makes decorating easy, offering a neat and colorful look without the mess of traditional dyeing.
Washi Tape Wonders
For a quick and eye-catching makeover, try using washi tape on plain ceramic eggs. With endless patterns and colors at your fingertips, simply wrap strips of tape around your eggs to form geometric designs or swirling patterns. The best part? The tape is easily removed and replaced, so you can update your décor as the season evolves.
Baking Soda Dyed Eggs
For a unique twist on traditional dyeing, try the baking soda method. After hard-boiling your eggs, give them a gentle coating of baking soda before immersing them in natural or food-color dyes. This extra step creates a textured surface that results in beautifully marbled, colorful patterns.
Naturally Dyed Fun
Create vibrant eggs using nature’s own pigments. Begin by boiling your eggs, then prepare a series of dye baths using the following ingredients, courtesy of The Kitchn:
Choose one of the below and simmer with 2 cups water, covered, for 15 to 30 minutes.
2 c shredded beets = reddish pink on white eggs, maroon on brown eggs
2 c red onion skins = reddish orange on white eggs or red on brown eggs
2 c yellow onion skins = orange on white eggs, rusty red on brown eggs
1/4 c ground turmeric = yellow eggs
2 c chopped purple cabbage, 1/4 c ground turmeric (two separate soaks) = green eggs
2 c chopped purple cabbage = blue on white eggs, green on brown eggs
2 c blueberries = blue eggs
2 c dried hibiscus flowers = lavender or indigo eggs
Let eggs soak in dye at least 30 minutes, or longer for deeper hues. Once eggs reach the perfect shade, set them aside to dry and watch as your creations transform into one-of-a-kind, nature-inspired treasures .
Local Easter Events
Upwards Church Spring Festival
April 12 • 1pm -4pm 1460 CR 313 • Jarrell
Spring Market
April 12 • 10 am - 3pm
Coolwater Community Center
401 Fighting Seabees Run Egg hunt at 10 am plus vendors and food trucks
Holy Trinity Catholic Church Passion of the Christ Performance
April 16 • 6:30 pm 8626 FM 1105 • Jarrell
Wolf Ranch Farmers Market Egg Hunt
April 19 • 10am
1015 W University • Georgetown 2,000 eggs hidden for kids of all ages to find
Jarrell Community Church Egg Hunt
April 19 • 10am • 3 locations
Rancho del Cielo Neighborhood Park
Jarrell Elementary Park Jarrell Memorial Park
Living Word Church Egg Hunt
April 20 immediately following the 11am service
301 W Ave H • Jarrell
WORTH THE DRIVE
by Ann Marie Kennon
A Thrill-Filled Adventure Just
LOOKING FOR A THEME PARK EXPERIENCE WITHOUT THE SKY-HIGH ADMISSION ALTERNATIVE TO COMMERCIAL MEGA-PARKS. WITH ALL-DAY ACCESS TO RIDES, IT’S THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR FAMILIES AND THRILL-SEEKERS WHO
ZDT's Amusement Park, nestled in the heart of Seguin, Texas, is a family-owned gem that has been delighting visitors since its inception in 2007. The park's name is a heartfelt tribute to the owners' three children — Zac, Danielle, and Tiffany. Over the years, ZDT's has blossomed from a modest indoor facility into a vibrant 10-acre amusement destination, seamlessly blending thrilling rides with rich local history.
JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND INNOVATION
One of the park's standout features is its unique integration of Seguin's historical architecture. Rather than constructing new buildings, ZDT's re-purposed existing structures that once served as agricultural and grocery centers. For instance, the Silo Climb attraction was ingeniously designed using former grain silos, offering guests a physical challenge and a tangible connection to the past. This commitment to preserving local heritage while providing modern entertainment creates a distinctive atmosphere that sets ZDT's apart from typical amusement parks.
THRILLS AND SPILLS: THE ATTRACTIONS
SWITCHBACK ROLLER COASTER: Debuting in 2015, Switchback holds the distinction of being the world's first and only wooden shuttle coaster. This innovative ride features a daring 104° overbanked turn and 87-degree vertical spike, propelling riders forwards and backwards. Reaching speeds up to 40 mph, Switchback offers a compact yet adrenaline-pumping experience that navigates through and around the park's historic structures.
THUNDERVOLT SPEEDWAY GO-KARTS: For those seeking highspeed competition, the multi-level go-kart track provides an exciting racing experience suitable for novices and seasoned drivers.
DIZZY TOUCAN: This family-friendly ride offers gentle spins, making it perfect for younger guests or those looking for a milder thrill.
MAXFLIGHT SIMULATOR: An immersive attraction that allows guests to experience the sensations of flight and other dynamic simulations without leaving the ground.
PARACHUTE DROP: Simulating the free-fall sensation of a parachute jump, this ride offers a gentle yet exhilarating experience.
JUNGLE PLAYGROUND: A multi-level play area designed for younger children to explore and enjoy in a safe environment.
ROCK WALL AND TRAMPOLINE THING: These attractions provide guests with opportunities to test their climbing skills and enjoy aerial acrobatics.
MAKING A SPLASH: WATER ATTRACTIONS OPEN APRIL 18
MAD RAFT WATER COASTER: Combining the thrills of a roller coaster with the splashes of a water ride, the Mad Raft uses powerful water jets to propel rafts uphill, creating a series of exhilarating drops and turns.
A Short Drive From Jarrell
PRICES? ZDT’S AMUSEMENT PARK OFFERS A BUDGET-FRIENDLY GO-KARTS, AND WATER ATTRACTIONS FOR A FRACTION OF THE COST, WANT BIG FUN WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK.
THE VIPER:This highspeed water slide launches riders through a series of twists and turns, offering a thrilling aquatic adventure.
VIPER'S TAIL: A competitive mat racer slide that allows guests to challenge friends and family in a race to the splashdown finish.
SPLASH ZONE: Designed with younger guests in mind, this interactive water play area features gentle sprays and fountains, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children to cool off and have fun.
WHEN YOU GO
The park operates year round, with varying hours depending on the season.
IN APRIL, THE PARK WILL BE OPEN ON WEEKENDS (except Easter Sunday) noon to 7pm on Saturdays, and noon to 6pm on Sundays. Water attractions are open from 1-5pm. Visit the park website for monthly calendars and schedules.
It is also important to note water ride operations are subject to weather conditions, so guests are encouraged to check the website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information.
A WORTHWHILE DRIVE
A trip to ZDT's Amusement Park offers a delightful day of entertainment and adventure. The drive typically takes an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions.
AFFORDABLE FUN FOR EVERYONE
One of the standout aspects of ZDT's is its commitment to providing affordable entertainment. The park offers various admission options, including single-day tickets and memberships, ensuring guests can choose the package that best fits their needs. Additionally, the park has an on-site arcade and refreshment stands, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day of fun without breaking the bank.
ZDT's Amusement Park seamlessly combines the charm of Seguin's rich history with the excitement of modern attractions. Whether you're a thrill-seeker eager to experience the unique Switchback coaster, a family looking for a fun-filled day of water play, or someone interested in exploring re-purposed historical structures, ZDT's offers something for everyone.
With its convenient location, diverse attractions, and commitment to preserving local heritage, a visit to ZDT’s Amusement Park is more than just a day of fun—it’s an experience that blends adventure, history, and affordability. Whether you’re zipping through the air on heart-pounding rides, cooling off in the water park, or enjoying classic arcade games, the park’s welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly options make it a must-visit destination. With something for all ages and interests, ZDT’s continues to be a beloved attraction for both locals and travelers seeking a unique Texas adventure.
NOW SERVING BREAKFAST!
by Ann Marie Kennon
Easter is next week, which means it's Lent right now and Leigh has been using the time for some prayerful reflection and, well… just pondering the Greatness.
One of those ponderings — one that has lived rent-free in Leigh's head for years — marries the amazing science of the universe with one of the ways she knows Who created it: through a hypothetical empty room
Imagine standing in the center of a room utterly without light or sound and you are unable to move. Without anything to reflect your presence back to you, you have no idea how big the room is, anything about its contents, or even the nature of it. You pretty much know nothing about anything — except that you exist in it.
Now, scale it up. Imagine all the matter in the universe — stars, planets, comets, even the ancient radio waves scientists believe were emitted billions of years ago — is gone. It’s just us, the sun for warmth and light, and the moon for tides. We’d have no sense of scale anywhere beyond about 93 million miles. No idea how to measure where we are. Just existence in the dark and nothing to give us any sense of distance or size or anything.
What on Earth (yes, pun intended) do you mean, Leigh? Well, that’s where the empty room comes in.
Even though humans have indeed left Earth a handful of times, in the colossal scale of the universe, we haven't really stepped into it. We are, as a species, still that unmoving person in the dark room.
Sunday's Comin' ...because Psalm 19:1
But there's this: "And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light upon the earth.’ And it was so."
~Genesis 1:14-15
As a Bible reader, Leigh believes there’s a lot of 'Because I said so' in its pages because, let’s be honest, it took us an embarrassingly long time just to figure out fire, and God knew His audience wasn’t going to be ready for general relativity for quite some time. But, since the beginning of time, we humans have always had lights in the room and walls of a sort, every time we looked up.
From our ancestors pondering the stars around tribal fires to last month's photo of a lunar sunrise from the world’s first commercial moon landing, we have been gifted with the awe-filled notion of how small we are. And in addition to giving us light and seasons, our Creator also gave us something else: The physical evidence necessary for us to understand how big Creation is. With that comes the sense that the One who made it — the energy, the galaxies, and the physics to manage them — can certainly reanimate a Human person when He feels like it.
Of course, Easter is much more profound than that, but Leigh is no pastor and always aims to simply entertain while hoping to make her dear readers just think about stuff.
People who aren't Neil DeGrasse Tyson rarely stop to think about how weird it is that the universe even ex-
ists. That there are stars and planets and, for some reason, sea cucumbers. But perhaps we should.
Maybe a more secular metaphor. If it were just you, your e-mail, and Wikipedia, you'd have no idea how big the Internet really is. But toss in a billion cat videos, Tik-Tok burp challenges, conspiracy theories about a flat Earth, and ads for antique butter churns because you once Googled ‘How was butter made in the 1800s?’ and, suddenly, you grasp its true scale.
The same applies to the cosmos. If it were just us, the sun, and the moon, we’d never comprehend the reality of its vastness. But, providentially, we get galaxies upon galaxies, black holes doing whatever black holes do, and a sky so big that even Leigh's dear old mom couldn't fill it up with conversation at Easter brunch.
And yet, here we are, on one little rock, looking up and wondering why? Maybe faith is like cosmic Wi-Fi — it’s everywhere, even if everyone doesn't see the signal bars. Or maybe Creation had to be this complex so we’d realize that something, or Someone, had to have done it on purpose. And, in case you were wondering, Psalm 19:1: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."
Seriously, if He can create this super busy universe — from the Oort Cloud to waterbears — just to give us a sense of scale… then rolling away one stone on a Sunday morning? Please. Child’s play.
Wishing everyone a joyous — and infinite — Resurrection Day!
Walk-Ins & Same Day Emergency Appointments Available!
Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 5:00 pm • Sat: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm • Sun: CLOSED
Jarrell Animal Hospital practices the highest standard of veterinary medicine while using an a ordable common-sense approach.
Our JAH Family is Growing! Please
join
us in Welcoming Dr. Caroline Sosebee!
Dr. Caroline Sosebee graduated from the University of Tennessee where she achieved a Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Science and participated in livestock judging and the equestrian team. She achieved her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. Upon graduation, Dr. Sosebee served as an active duty Veterinary Corps Officer at Fort Cavazos, Fort Novosel and as an Instructor at the United States Army School of Aviation Medicine. She continues her service in the US Army Reserves. Her professional interests include emergency and critical care, neurology and radiology. She is excited to reside in central Texas, and to explore all that the Republic has to offer with her husband and three dogs. In her time away from practicing clinical medicine, Dr. Sosebee enjoys cheering on the Tennessee Vols, traveling internationally, riding horses and hiking.
