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 multi-page features. These not only celebrate their contributions but also inspire readers to personally engage and participate in the missions of these community pillars.
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to thank our readers, advertisers, and community partners who make My Jarrell Magazine possible. Your support allows us to continue sharing the stories that make Jarrell shine. Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving.
PUBLISHERS
Cathy Payne • Mike Payne
COMMUNITY EDITOR
Camy Reynolds
COMMUNITY LIAISON
Janet Hage
SENIOR WRITERS / CONTENT
EDITORS
Charlotte Kovalchuk
Ann Marie Kennon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Linda A. Thornton
GRAPHICS & DESIGN
Sandra Evans • Marilee Goldoni
Ann Marie Kennon
CONTRIBUTING
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Patrick St. Cin
CONSULTANT
W. Ben Daniel
IT / WEBMASTER
Jesse Payne
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
512.746.4545
info@myjarrell.com
My Jarrell is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication and a product of AdvocateNewsTX Newspaper.
W FM 487 | Unit Z Jarrell, TX 737-349-5556 JarrellDogs@icloud.com
THE GIVING ISSUE
Communities thrive when neighbors step up to care for one another, and local nonprofits are at the heart of that effort. From providing basic needs assistance to local families, to offering rides and companionship for seniors, to connecting veterans through service and advocacy—the organizations featured this month meet critical needs while fostering connection and hope in and around Jarrell.
This month's Q&A series highlights the missions, programs, and stories behind several local nonprofits, showing how volunteers, staff, and donors work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their neighbors.
COLUMNS
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 info@myjarrell.com or 512.746.4545
ANTHONY CHIROPRACTIC
Personalized chiropractic care, pain relief, and wellness solutions for Jarrell families, helping patients achieve optimal health, mobility, and balance through compassionate, professional treatment.
AnthonyChiro.com/Jarrell-tx 512-883-8048
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
HALL'S ROOFING & SHEET METAL
Family owned since 1939. Roofing professionals specializing in fullservice roof repair, installation, and replacement.
HallsRoofing.net 512-864-7579
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
Breaking Ground on a Legacy of Learning
Marie Boatright and Library President Janet Hage share a joyful moment during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Boatright Family Library Building,a cornerstone for education and connection in northern Williamson County.
PHOTO BY CHRISTIANA BETTIS PHOTOGRAPHY
A new chapter is unfolding for northern Williamson County as the Jarrell Community Library and Resource Center moves forward with plans for a permanent home.
What began as a small community effort in 2019 has grown into a broad initiative to provide not only books, but also access to education, technology, and essential services for the rapidly expanding Jarrell area. Community members gathered to celebrate that next step during a groundbreaking ceremony in October.
“This is really special to us,” says Janet Hage, president of the library’s board of directors. “It’s an enormous gift and opportunity for Jarrell and northern Williamson County. Today, we break ground on a building. We break ground on opportunity, learning, and community.”
For the past several years, the library has operated at the Sonterra Municipal Utility District building on Limestone Terrace. As the MUD’s needs expanded, library leaders began looking for a permanent home—one that could grow alongside the community it serves. That search ended with a generous gift: local resident Marie Boatright donated two acres of family land on Boatright Boulevard in eastern Jarrell for the library’s new site. “When Janet approached me about donating the property, I immediately thought of the families, neighbors, and surrounding communities,” Marie says. “It’s my hope that every book [read], class attended, and program held will inspire the minds of families and neighbors to [work towards] togetherness.” The new building will be named the Boatright Family Library Building in honor of her contribution.
During the groundbreaking, County Judge Steve Snell reflected on the role libraries played in his own childhood. “On the summer and weekends, my mom would take me to the public library. It’s where I and my brothers were introduced to books where our imagination came to life,” he says. “You learn to dream—and you learn to dream big. I know this library will be just as special.”
BEYOND THE BOOKS
The library’s expansion includes a new facility on Boatright Boulevard that will provide space for expanded programming, technology access, and community resources for the 76537 area and nearby towns such as Granger, Weir, and Walburg. A portable facility, expected to be completed by early 2026, will serve as the library’s temporary home while plans progress for a 5,000-square-foot permanent building. That long-term facility is designed to go far beyond traditional library functions, serving as a true community hub for learning, collaboration, and connection across northern Williamson County. “It’s not just a library filled with books,” Janet says. “This is a resource center…that will offer access to technology, programs, workforce solutions, cultural events, and support services for growing independent members of our community.”
The Jarrell Community Library and Resource Center already reflects that vision through its diverse range of programs, such as literacy classes, homeschool STEM groups, and local author talks. The center also helps residents with job searches and résumé writing, while a food pantry and mental health support groups serve broader community needs.
BUILDING TOGETHER
Jarrell Community Library and Resource Center is aiming to raise $100,000 to install a portable building as a temporary home, with a long-term goal to raise $5 million for a new 5,000-square-foot home. For now, progress depends on local support—through fundraising and hands-on help. Volunteers are needed for upcoming workdays, and donations of any amount move the project closer to its temporary home and eventual permanent building. Those interested in donating or volunteering can call 512-541-1036 or email jarrelllibrary@gmail.com. Scan the code or visit jarrellcommunitylibrary.org for more information.
SThe US Veterans Motorcycle Club is a nationwide organization with members and chapters across the United States, consisting of veterans from all six branches of the armed forces.
Riding for Veterans
ince 2010, the Lonestar Chapter has actively contributed to the Central Texas community and made a positive impact through its efforts. Jarrell resident and chapter member John Erwood says their mission is to raise awareness of veteran issues by building an informative advocacy platform that supports those who have served. "We are committed to caring for veterans and fostering meaningful, lasting connections. These connections are integral to our efforts to combat veteran suicide and address other challenges faced by veterans."
BEYOND THE UNIFORM
For many veterans, leaving the military marks a significant life transition, often accompanied by a loss of camaraderie with like-minded individuals. Our organization seeks to restore that sense of belonging by creating a family-like environment, using motorcycles and community service as a means to rebuild connections. While other organizations may occasionally engage in outreach activities, we have a long-standing tradition of supporting both the military and local communities, combining our passion for motorcycles, camaraderie, and service. Active-duty military personnel and honorably dis-
charged veterans are welcome to apply for membership, though we carefully vet applicants to ensure alignment with our values and principles.
Motorcycle clubs are often subject to misconceptions, but we have consistently received strong public support, as people recognize our veteran status and positive impact. The primary challenge we face is operating within a highly saturated veteran service organization landscape. With numerous organizations vying for support, we work tirelessly to distinguish ourselves through our presence and actions. We provide both monetary and physical support wherever possible, ensuring that all contributions align with our mission.
EXPANDING THE MISSION
The Lonestar Chapter is based in Copperas Cove, Texas, with plans to expand into surrounding communities to reach more veterans and the broader community. We welcome partnerships with community organizations and businesses, whether through fundraising, volunteering, or simply engaging in our mission. Our goal is to accommodate and collaborate with those who share our commitment to veterans. The club’s unwavering commitment to its mission and values, combined with its positive impact and collaborative approach, distinguishes it within the veteran service landscape. Through its dedication to fostering meaningful connections, supporting veterans, and addressing critical issues such as veteran suicide, the club has established itself as a leader in promoting the well-being and camaraderie of those who have served.
To learn more, visit USVeteransTexasmc.weebly.com and the US Veterans MC - Lonestar TX Facebook page.
Heartfelt Helpers
IProviding everyday essentials, kindness, and community support to Jarrell families in need — because everyone deserves dignity, comfort, and a helping hand when life gets tough.
WHERE COMMUNITY CARE BEGINS WITH KINDNESS
n a world where it’s all too easy to overlook the quiet struggles of our neighbors, Heartfelt Helpers makes a simple promise: no one in Jarrell should go without essentials that keep families healthy, safe, and dignified. From pantry staples and diapers to clothing and personal care items, this grassroots nonprofit is built on generosity and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.
For the volunteers who show up each week, the greatest reward isn’t the shelf that gets restocked or the wish list item delivered—it’s the moment someone in need realizes they are seen. “Everyone I’ve interacted with is just trying to get by and keep their family safe,” says the organization’s leader, Brooke Townsend. “It warms my heart to be able to be a part of that, and to watch others in the community come together to help.”
While many locals know Heartfelt Helpers as a source of groceries and household items, the organization provides so much more. Families can find clothing for children and expecting mothers, hygiene products, diapers, formula, and nonperishable food items. Books and school supplies are also available for growing kids. Everything is donation-based and freely
offered to anyone in need, ensuring that privacy, compassion, and dignity remain at the heart of every visit. If Heartfelt Helpers doesn’t currently have something a family needs, there’s still hope through its Wishlist Program, which allows residents to request specific items and gives others a simple way to help. “Kindness can go a long way, and I want as many people as possible to have access to that,” Brooke explains.
Behind the scenes, a quiet army keeps the mission alive—stay-at-home moms, retirees, and members of a supportive local social group who sort donations, stack shelves, and make sure the right items end up in the right hands. Their contributions are especially vital as the biggest need continues to grow: hygiene products and baby supplies, which are often too expensive for families struggling to make ends meet.
As Jarrell rapidly expands, so will the number of neighbors who need a helping hand. But Heartfelt Helpers remains steady in its purpose: *to be here for anyone in need, because we’ve all been there at some point— and together, we can lift each other up.*
IDelivering comfort, kindness, and essential support to families facing childhood cancer, turning hard days into smiles through personalized care kits and heartfelt outreach.
Brooklynn Miller Foundation
n a world that can feel overwhelming when a child becomes sick, the Brooklynn Miller Foundation brings light, comfort, and compassion to families facing their hardest days. Through programs like Brooklynn’s BAGs, the foundation delivers personalized comfort gifts to young patients at Dell Children’s Hospital—each one designed to bring a smile, a moment of joy, or a small reminder that they’re not alone.
One of those smiles belonged to a little girl named Noa, diagnosed with B-Cell Acute lymphoblastic Leukemia at just 16 months old. Despite grueling treatments, Noa greets each day with a grin that could light up a room. When she received her Brooklynn’s BAG, she discovered a special surprise inside—an Asha dress from her favorite movie, *Wish.* Her mom shared, “When she opened her box today, she was so excited! She started dancing and wanted to visit her daddy at the fire station to show him that she looks ‘beautiful like Asha.’ She’s been so sick today, and this was the pick-me-up she needed.” It’s moments like these, says founder Erika Spies, that remind the team why they do what they do—turning hard days into smiles, one child at a time.
While many in the community know about Brooklynn’s BAGs, fewer realize that the Foundation also provides Couples Care Kits for parents with a child in hospice. Each kit is a “date night in a box,” complete with a dinner gift card, a few shared activities, and simple ways for couples to reconnect and find moments of comfort together amid unimaginable circumstances. The organization also extends compassion to grieving families
through thoughtful memorial gifts honoring children who have passed away.
Behind the scenes, the heart of the Foundation beats with the dedication of family and friends. Erika credits her husband, Christian, her parents, Erik and Sherri Maxey, her sister, Heather Hetrick, and their children for keeping Brooklynn’s mission alive. She’s also deeply grateful to Christen Killebrew, Kelly Simek, The Thin Blue Line, and the many volunteers who pour their love into each box. Corporate sponsors like ND Construction and Flatz 487 also play a vital role, helping transform Brooklynn’s final wish into ongoing acts of kindness.
But even the most heartfelt missions face challenges. Two recent fundraising events were rained out, and with more families reaching out each month, the need for financial support continues to grow.
Still, Erika remains hopeful. “While we do so much for the local childhood cancer community, our reach already extends nationwide,” she says. “Over the next 10 years, our goal is to grow across the country—expanding beyond Brooklynn’s BAGs to bring even more smiles, comfort, and hope to kids everywhere.”
Because for the Brooklynn Miller Foundation, care truly begins with kindness — and kindness has no boundaries.
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Teens Take the Stand
Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 Launches Teen Court
When a teenager in Williamson County makes a mistake—say, a speeding ticket or tobacco violation—the path to accountability now looks a little different. Thanks to the newly launched Teen Court under Justice of the Peace Precinct 4, local students are getting the chance to turn those slip-ups into second chances—while offering youth a hands-on look at how the justice system works. “Some of our neighboring precincts already had teen courts,” says Stephanie Teinert, Juvenile Case Manager for Judge Rhonda Redden’s office. “We wanted to provide that same opportunity here—to help our youth not only learn about the law, but to hold each other accountable.”
Teen Court meets one Monday each month, with a short break in November for the holidays before resuming in December. Scan the code to learn more.
A COURTROOM OF THEIR OWN
Teen Court gives students the chance to step inside a real courtroom and take on roles as jurors, attorneys, clerks, and even bailiffs. The cases they hear typically involve Class C misdemeanors—offenses like traffic violations, tobacco use, or minor alcohol-related charges. What makes the program unique is that both sides of the courtroom are led by teens: volunteers who argue and deliberate, and first-time offenders who choose to have their cases heard and sentenced by their peers. Sentences are designed to be restorative rather than punitive, often involving community service hours and participation as jurors in future Teen Court sessions.
“It’s really powerful because it is about teens holding teens accountable.”
“The defendants get to explain what happened, share what’s going on in their life, and have a voice in the sentencing. And the best part is that it keeps it off their record.”
With the addition of Carrie Beran, the new Juvenile Program Coordinator, Stephanie and Judge Redden officially launched the program this fall. Their first Teen Court session took place in September, transforming the courtroom into a dynamic, youth-led learning environment. Officers who had issued citations testified for the prosecution, student attorneys conducted cross-examinations, and Anthony Montez—lead prosecutor for Williamson County Court 5–even joined to help guide the proceedings.
The early cases included traffic offenses—like driving with restricted licenses or overly tinted windows—as well as minor alcohol and drug paraphernalia violations. But what stood out most was the passion and purpose the teens brought to the courtroom. Many participants see Teen Court as a first step toward careers in law or public service—one student even hopes to become a House Representative one day—while others are motivated simply by a sense of civic duty and the chance to help their peers. The experience gives them a meaningful, real-world understanding of how the justice system works and the impact it can have on their community.
Teen Court is open to all interested students in Williamson County, and has already drawn participation from schools across the area—including Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Thrall, St. Mary’s, Copeland, and Bartlett.
“Teen Court serves two important purposes — it gives students who are preparing for college a way to earn community service hours and build their resumes, and it gives other teens a chance to face consequences for their mistakes in a way that helps them learn and grow, without carrying a permanent mark on their record. We’re helping prepare them to become responsible young adults — to take challenges and turn them into wins.”
~Judge Rhonda Redden
If fall in Texas has a flavor, it’s chili.
A recent national survey crowned Texas chili as the #1 fall comfort food, and it’s easy to see why. When the air turns crisp—well, as crisp as it gets in Central Texas—our collective craving for that spicy, slow-simmered bowl of red kicks in. It’s part nostalgia, part state pride, and entirely delicious. That makes November the perfect time to hit the road on a Texas Chili Trail, a savory adventure through small-town cafés, roadside diners, and iconic cook-offs where everyone swears their recipe is the real deal. From smoky beef chili that warms you to your boots to fire-breathing versions that test your courage, every stop tells a story. You’ll find family traditions passed down for generations, secret spice blends that start arguments, and enough bragging rights to last until spring.
Chasing the Perf BEFORE YOU GO!
No. Beans. In. Texas. Chili.
Let’s settle this once and for all—real Texas chili does not contain beans. Never has. Never will. The original “bowl of red,” as Texans proudly call it, is built on beef, chiles, and spices—nothing that grows on a vine. Beans are fine in soup, maybe even stew, but in chili? That’s heresy.
The tradition dates back to the 1800s, when Texas cowboys and chuck wagon cooks used dried chiles, meat, and a few humble seasonings to create a hearty trail meal that could stand up to a long day in the saddle. Beans were bulky, perishable, and considered filler—unfit for the pure, peppery punch of true chili.
So, grab your appetite, a few friends, and maybe some antacids. A chili road trip isn’t just about food— it’s about celebrating Texas culture in its truest form: bold, hearty, and best enjoyed with a spoon and a sense of adventure. After all, in November, chili isn’t just dinner—it’s a destination.
The Chili Appreciation Society International even codified it: "If you know beans about chili, you know chili has no beans." So, while outsiders may try to slip a few pintos into the pot, Texans will politely (or not so politely) remind them—this is chili country, not bean country.
ect Bowl of Chili
Pit Stop BBQ’s 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off
SUN. NOVEMBER 16
1 PM — 6 PM
Backporch Social (153 Harris St N, Round Rock). A $20 ticket gets you all-you-can-taste chili, live music, and judging rights! Want to compete? Enter your best batch for $50 and battle for top honors while supporting Williamson and Travis County Livestock Shows, benefiting 4H and FFA youth. Expect live entertainment, raffles, and fun all day long. To register your team, message Pit Stop BBQ on Facebook or email pit-stopbbq@hotmail.com
Region 1 Chili Cook-Off
SAT. NOVEMBER 22 9 AM — 3 PM
Central Texas Harley-Davidson 2801 N I-35, Round Rock
The Texas Council of Clubs & Independents hosts its annual Chili Cook-Off. Entry fee for chili teams is $20, with cook-onsite competition and trophies awarded for the top recipes.
All are welcome to attend free of cost, whether you want to sample, judge, or just soak up the spirited atmosphere. Note: Entries must be submitted by 12:45 p.m. on event day.
Fanthorp Fast Food & Stagecoach Ride
NOVEMBER 22 • 10 AM — 4 PM
Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site • 579 S Main St, Anderson, TX (~2 hours from
Step back in time at the Fanthorp Fast Food & Stagecoach Ride, where guests can sample an early 1840s version of chili and experience living history in action.
Stagecoach rides 11am-3pm; tickets $10 for ages 6 and up, children 5 & under free.
When you arrive, be sure to check in on the front porch, pick up your souvenir stagecoach ticket, and enjoy self-guided tours of the inn, grounds, and historical demonstrations before boarding your ride up to the Grimes County Courthouse and back.
Jarrell)
by Linda Thornton
Rodeo Bull Riding
PERIL, PASSION, AND PRESTIGE
Texas pays homage to its traditions—and competitive nature— even when it means riding a one-ton, aggressive animal.
Described as “a wild brawl between man and bull,” the sport is also known as bull riding.
The ranching culture of the original 16th-century Mexican cowboys called vaqueros (vaca is Spanish for cow) evolved into informal competitions between Texas cowboys showing off their resilience on aggressive bulls.
Soon, organized events showcased these exuberant contests, with the first official rodeo held in Pecos, Texas, in 1883. The rodeo was named Texas’ state sport in 1997. Today, the thriving industry is an integral part of the state’s economy and remains a symbol of the American West, with bull riding as its main attraction and, often, the rodeo’s grand finale.
IT’S SAFE TO SAY, BULL RIDING IS ONE OF THE MOST DANGEROUS SPORTS IN THE WORLD!
HOW IT WORKS
Bull riding competitions take place over several nights. Riders ride a different, randomly selected bull once each evening.
The rider mounts the bull in a small enclosure called a bucking chute. The bull is held steady, and the chute isn’t opened until the rider gets a good grip.
The rider must stay on the bull for eight seconds.
If the rider’s free hand touches the bull during the ride, he is disqualified.
Riders and bulls can earn a total score of 50 points each. Riders are judged on balance, control, and style, while bulls are scored on their level of bucking, kicking, and spinning ability.
Should a rider be thrown off the bull, rodeo clowns are in the ring to distract the bull until the rider is safe.
The top twenty scoring riders ride again on the last night. The winner is the rider with the highest collective score.
THE RIDER OR THE BULL : WHO’S REALLY THE STAR OF THE SHOW? HIGH RISK RIDER
The rigorous training, travel, and recovery make professional bull riding a way of life, rather than an occupation. Children of rodeo families grow up traveling to events, become immersed in the lifestyle, and see it as a natural path.
The life of a bull rider consists of cultivating and maintaining the necessary physical and mental prowess and gaining experience in rodeo sports and bull behavior. Many join a professional organization such as the Professional Bull Riders (PBR), and obtain mentors and sponsors, while making sure to score enough prize money to advance.
Most riders end their careers in their mid 30s, but those who have made their mark have remained in the industry as commentators, coaches, and in league management.
WHAT MAKES TEXAS "TEXAS"?
AUSTIN RICHARDSON, RISING TALENT
At 19, Austin was one of the youngest riders to ever qualify for the PBR World Finals. From riding goats at a young age, he slowly turned to bulls and became professional at age 18.
Now 25, the Dallas native says injuries come from being unfocused and he’s thankful he’s only suffered a broken finger.
THE AMERICAN BUCKING BULL IS AN ELITE BREED OF CATTLE
Weighing in at 1,500–2,000 pounds, these bulls are considered high-performance athletes and are professionally ranked, just like their riders.
Their muscular build and temperament are suited for the sport. They have been trained to perform for a crowd and know they are competing. Special genetic lineage bred into these bulls gives them their bucking instinct and ability. Since a bull’s skin is seven times thicker than human skin, it can withstand the dull spurs that riders use to grip for balance.
Some bulls achieve legendary status and live a lavish lifestyle with their own dedicated ranches, social media platforms, and the knowledge that if there's going to be an injury in the arena, chances are it will not be theirs.
YOUR FIRST RODEO?
COVERING: Staying on the bull for all of eight seconds.
RANK: A term of praise for a bull that’s especially powerful and difficult to ride.
SLAP: When the rider’s free hand touches the bull during the ride, resulting in disqualification.
SPURRING: A motion where the rider’s feet make contact with the bull, a key technique for staying balanced and scoring.
Remember to show your excitement with a “Yee Haw!” or “Covered it!” to celebrate a rider staying on for eight seconds.
DON YOUR HAT AND BOOTS AND HOOF IT TO THE RODEO
Bring the family and celebrate all things rodeo! Livestock shows, live music, and carnival attractions surround the featured excitement of watching cowboys, cowgirls, and even children, who have their eyes on the prize, compete for cash and kudos.
Mark your calendars for Rodeo Austin March 13-28, 2026 at the Travis County Expo Center. The next Williamson County Fair & Rodeo will be October 2026 at the Williamson County Expo Center in Taylor.
Wilco Fair and Rodeo WilcoFair.com/p/thefair/rodeo
“The best bulls in rodeo are unpredictable. Trying to outsmart them can lead cowboys to outsmart themselves.”
Ty Murray, "King of the Cowboys” Nine-time World Champion
SECURITY THEATER: Sequels No One Asked For
Leigh is excited about seeing family this year because nothing says “holiday spirit” like undressing in public for the TSA.
Since a lot of us will be going somewhere over the next couple of months—whether to see family, avoid them, or gather around a table and argue about politics—I thought I’d kick off the season with something uplifting: a recent trip through airport security that did not make me question my life choices.
No shoe removal. No forced Tetris with quart-sized bags. No barked commands to “take off your headband” while juggling my dignity and a backpack full of not-airline-food snacks. I arrived a mere 75 minutes before takeoff and breezed through like it was 1999.
Honestly, it was so smooth, it made me suspicious. Because let’s face it—we all suspect the party won’t last. All it takes is one crazy moron tying his pants with det cord and suddenly we’re back to Patriot Act II: Now With More Body Scanners So now I'm worried I'll get just comfortable enough that we’ve reached a turning point, and then BAM—here comes security theater, dragging us all back into the spotlight of an encore production of "Paranoia: The Musical."
Meanwhile, back home, thanks to criminals migrating from airports to airpods I have to recite my birthdate, full name, address, phone number, and possibly my high school GPA just to confirm a dental appointment. It’s not a missile launch, Madam Secretary. I’m just trying to see if it’s still Tuesday at 2:30 and whether I’m getting the cinnamon fluoride.
It’s the same brand of bureaucratic brilliance that shows up when you try to help your elderly mother pay her electric bill, and the customer service rep says, “Sorry, ma’am, we can’t take your payment unless your name is on the account.”
Oh, I see. You don't want MY money? You’d prefer to turn off mom's lights because she can’t remember which phone PIN she created for you in 2014 and there's no way in the world she's going to figure out where Venmo is.
And let’s just take a moment to fully appreciate the logic breakdown here. I’m not trying to access her bank account. I’m not trying to change her address. I’m not even asking to cancel anything.
I’m literally just trying to give them money. For a service they already provided. That is past due. But apparently, unless I can prove I am, in fact, 87 years old and holding the
original utility agreement in one hand and my birth certificate in the other, my money is suspicious.
Let me assure you, electricity paladins, I am not a criminal mastermind running an elaborate scam in order to pay my mom’s electric bill. There’s no underground black market for bringing other people’s utilities up to date. Absolutely no one is out here bragging, “Hey man, I just paid for someone’s water and trash pickup — I'm a total OG.”
So now what? I’m supposed to let her account go delinquent because the system is more afraid of a helpful daughter than a missed payment? I guess that's what passes for enterprise security these days.
It’s the same pattern everywhere — more rules, more procedures, and less actual sense.
We’ve built systems that are so desperate to avoid liability, they’ve forgotten how to function logically. Which brings me to one rule that does feel a bit like a holiday gift: the de-evolution in Texas public schools now that connected devices are banned during instruction hours.
Frankly? Hallelujah. It’s the first time in a long while we have hit the brakes on the madness in a way that might actually help. I hear from teachers and see, as an occasional substitute myself, that kids are rediscovering biology is actually interesting and the Monroe Doctrine still matters—even if you can't lip-sync it with an otter filter.
And let’s not forget the ancient pre-smartphone art of passing handwritten notes. Remember those? Folded like origami, passed like state secrets. The security risk back then was the teacher reading it aloud, exposing your crush or your spelling errors—both of which were instant social death. Because honestly, “U r a dumhead” doesn’t land the same when written in glitter gel pen without autocorrect.
So yes, while you’re packing your bags this season, I invite you to give thanks for the little things—a faster TSA line, the joy of wearing socks in public, and the blessed silence of disconnected teenagers who might actually look up and notice how perfectly browned your turkey is.
It may not sparkle like a holiday ad, but this kind of normalcy? That’s the gift that keeps on giving. Happy Thanksgiving, Jarrell!
Tiny Treasures Around Town
BRINGING A LITTLE JOY TO THE HUNT
If you’ve spotted a curious little 3-D printed creature peeking out from a bench in Jarrell, dangling from a tree branch near the splash pad, or hiding behind the pickles at Brookshire Brothers… you might have just found one of Rhonda Parker’s latest cache creations.
Over the last few months, Rhonda has been designing tiny fidgets, funky keychains, and colorful pocket-treasures to hide all over Jarrell—hoping they spark a smile or a moment of surprise for whoever finds them. Some are robots, some are puzzle pieces, and a few are just wonderfully weird. She places them in everyday spaces to remind us there’s still magic in the ordinary.
The idea was inspired by a worldwide Facebook group dedicated to spreading kindness through small, 3-D printed surprises. “It’s all about kindness and smiles!” Rhonda says. Retired and new to Jarrell just 3½ years ago, she takes care of her husband and was looking for a hobby they could enjoy together. She bought her first printer in April
2025, and with her grandkids’ help, soon had gadgets piling up faster than she knew what to do with. By June, the Caching in Jarrell group was born.
Rhonda doesn’t do this alone—she has already invited others to join the fun. One fellow resident makes bracelets and tapes them to street sign poles, adding a little charm of her own to the hunt. Rhonda hopes even more hobbyists will contribute—painted rocks, crocheted critters, anything that brings delight. “I’m not crafty,” she says with a laugh, “but I know the bracelets are a hit!”
Her husband may not speak much anymore, but his smile as he watches the printer at work is contagious. That joy is what Rhonda hopes to share— one tiny treasure at a time. Keep your eyes open, Jarrell… adventure might be waiting right behind the ketchup.
by Ann Marie Kennon • photos courtesy of Rhonda Parker
