our neighbors, supporting our
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Well, here we are: December. Cooler temperatures, holidays on the horizon and the close of yet another year. They say the older you get, the faster time goes. Whoever “they” are, they really aren’t kidding. This year went by in the blink of an eye, but what a year it was.
Personally, my son married the love of his life in a wonderful wedding full of joy. It was a day to remember!
This past year also saw Mueller magazine really take off and become part of the fabric of our amazing community. For this I cannot be more proud or more grateful.
To bring the year to a close, we check in with Origin Hotel. Its proprietors take the holidays seriously and can’t wait to share their version of holiday cheer with Mueller.
We also meet Teresa Styblo at our very own Olde Soul Barbershop. Her inspirational journey as a deaf hairstylist shows us all how determination and dedication can make dreams come true.
As the weather gets colder and activities are forced indoors, the LBJ Library right down the road from Mueller is a great place to spend some time. With deep roots here in the community, this gem right in our own backyard offers an educational and enjoyable outing for people of all ages.
As we all dive into whatever holiday (or all the holidays) we celebrate, let’s take a moment to appreciate our amazing Mueller community. Wishing the happiest and healthiest holiday season and new year to all!
Liz Reingold Publisher
Editor & Publisher
Liz Reingold
Contributing Writers
Carmen Gray
Christina Tangredi
Photographer
Margarita Garcia Acevedo
Marketing Coordinator
Alexandra Garcia
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O›Connell
Executive Editor
Richard Laliberte
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Mueller magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Mueller, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Mueller
Mozart’s 2024 Lake Austin Festival of Lights is back and will illuminate the shores of Lake Austin for 37 days! By popular demand, we’ve expanded visitor reservation slots, giving our guests more time to enjoy the magic of the holidays. General admission tickets are just $5 in advance (with all kids under 11 free to attend with an adult). Tickets grant access to the dazzling light displays, captivating entertainment, Holiday Village, Immersive Igloos, Lake Activities and more! We can’t wait to celebrate the holidays again with y’all this year!
There is nothing like Mueller during the holiday season. From the lighting of the iconic Mueller Tower and beautiful lights adorning the paseo to residents who take great pride in decorating their homes, Mueller comes alive at this time of year.
Whether you are enjoying an evening out or just walking around and taking it all in, allow some time to appreciate how beautiful Mueller becomes during the holiday season.
The South African eatery recently opened its first location in Austin—and fourth in Texas— right here in Mueller. Situated in the Origin Hotel building on McBee and Aldrich Streets, the popular restaurant chain is known for its flame-grilled chicken marinated in its own special peri-peri sauce. With a variety of delicious food and drink options, it is a wonderful new addition to the neighborhood.
Matthew and India Gonzales offer artisanal, small-batch snacks that are fresh, natural and flavorful.
BY CARMEN GRAY
As the holidays draw near, it’s a good time to consider some local festive and delicious snacks available for purchase at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller.
Since popcorn is one of the most beloved and popular snacks worldwide, try sampling some of the tasty choices at Kelly’s Killer Popcorn. It’s a perfect snack to eat while cozying up on the couch on a cold night with a good Netflix series or while putting together a puzzle with family or friends.
The fun and unique Kelly’s Killer Popcorn stall is a family-run business operated by the husband-and-wife team of Matthew “Kelly” Gonzales and India Gonzales.
They work nonstop together to make artisanal, small-batch, fresh popcorn that doesn’t contain preservatives or other unnatural ingredients. “With no employees for now, we personally produce up to 700 bags of popcorn each week!” Matthew says.
This dynamic duo has a secret to making fresh-tasting popcorn. They use only pure, clarified butter and no artificial flavors, and they produce it in small quantities, which contributes to its highquality flavor.
With no seed oils or unnatural ingredients added, their popcorn tastes lighter and airier, with a more subtle flavor than store-bought popcorn. Not only that, but it is a healthier snack for all to enjoy for movie nights, game nights or late-night snack cravings.
The couple points out that when typical microwave popcorn is heated, PFAS chemicals from the bag can transfer to oils in the popcorn, making fresh-popped popcorn a better alternative—and if you don’t feel like making your own, picking some up at the farmers’ market is an ideal purchase. At just $7 a bag, it’s also not too much of a splurge.
The Gonzaleses say that popcorn has been a favorite snack of theirs since childhood. They love its flavor and the fact that it’s a food people often eat with others.
The couple began their business three years ago with a fold-out table, stovetop popper and zero funding. Now their business has grown to the point that they’re using a commercial kitchen.
They can now produce a lot more popcorn to support local businesses that sell Kelly’s Killer Popcorn in stores, thanks to the growth they have seen over the past few years from the Texas Farmers’ Market at both Mueller and Lakeline.
A Festival of Flavors
“We strive to give people a real gourmet popcorn option with the highest-quality ingredients that they don’t have to worry about, while also bringing our unique personality to our brand and
packaging,” Matthew says.
You’ll notice their easy-to-recognize, retro-themed, spooky bags with the cryptic promise of getting you hooked onto their array of Texas-inspired flavors, including Cheddar Cheese, Classic Butter, Queso, Spicy Nacho, Kettle, Sopapilla, Dill Pickle, S.P.G. (salt/pepper/garlic) and Salted Agave Caramel, which is one of their bestselling holiday options,.
Salted Agave Caramel is made with locally sourced agave nectar that has a crunchy caramel flavor with buttered salt on the outside. The duo notes that customers often say, “This tastes like Christmas!”
Matthew and India say that selling at the Mueller market has been an amazing experience ever since they opened their stall two years ago. They like Mueller because it is a perfect location. They say it attracts a vibrant and diverse group of people unlike that of any other market they’ve found—a crowd consisting of not only young professionals and growing families but also people visiting Austin who know the market is a mustsee while they are in town.
a published author and freelance writer, and contributing editor for Latino magazine.
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Olde Soul embraces a sense of community among its clientele, hairstyling staff and fellow small businesses.
Tucked away on Mattie Street right in the heart of Mueller’s bustling downtown sits a gem of a hairstyling establishment, Olde Soul Barbershop. Founders Edgar and Sasha Argumendo strive to create an inclusive and inviting experience for their clientele as well as for the stylists who work with them. They blend modern techniques with traditional values, inspired by their motto, “Modern feel with an Olde Soul.”
Their business began in 2019 in East Austin with a simple dream: to create a modern barber and retail front offering high-quality services and grooming products.
When COVID-19 hit, the business was forced to close for several months. Not ones to sit idlily by, the couple figured out a way to pivot their business to help not only themselves but also other small businesses that were struggling during this time.
“The global pandemic forced us to rethink what it meant to be a small business, how to serve our community and how to support other small businesses,” says Sasha. In response, the Argumendos started producing locally designed shirts for their barber clients, which sparked a new idea. With incredible support from the Austin community, they were inspired to create something meaningful beyond the walls of their shop.
“We launched an online marketplace to connect creatives and their unique products with shoppers eager to support small businesses,” says Sasha.
Today, over 100 businesses participate in their marketplace, and three additional Olde Soul locations have opened, including the one in Mueller.
The goal has always been to empower those who work with Olde Soul and create an environment where “Y’all really does mean y’all.”
One of the most striking examples of this concept in action comes from one of their talented stylists, Teresa Styblo. She was born deaf but did not let that stop her from reaching her dream of becoming a hairstylist.
As a member of Olde Soul’s Mueller team, Styblo brings a unique perspective to the job. She’s been deaf since birth, and it took her family three years to understand why she was slow in speech yet so strong-willed in many ways.
Playing with hair was always her outlet as a child and her way of unwinding and coping with life around her. From experimenting with her own hair and using Barbie dolls as her first clients to giving unfortunate haircuts to cousins, her childhood antics shaped her career goals. “There’s something truly magical about transforming someone’s look with just a simple haircut,” she says.
Her journey has not been a simple one. She believes that all she has overcome throughout her life has prepared her for the challenges she has faced in her adult life and career.
“Navigating the barber industry as a woman is already a challenge,” Styblo says. “Add being deaf into the mix, and it’s a whole new ball game. From dealing with ridicule in class to getting fired from my first job because my former boss said, ‘I’m just worried you’re not going to effectively communicate with your clients,’ I felt like the odds were stacked against me. But I didn’t let that stop me.”
What propelled her to keep going when things got tough? This is what she truly loves and feels that she was meant to do. Not only is Styblo a talented stylist, but she also feels she has a message to convey to those in the deaf community struggling to find their place.
“We, as a deaf community, occupy a unique space in society,” Styblo says. “We serve as your barbers, teachers, healthcare professionals and everything in between. Despite being often overlooked, we are determined to showcase our presence. I strongly believe in the idea of treating others the way I want to be treated—with kindness and understanding.”
Styblo is quick to share a very simple message that means something special to her: Moments of quiet are not necessarily negative.
When she first started working as a stylist, her top priority was to communicate effectively with clients during discussions to ensure they got the best haircut possible. She always strives to make sure her clients feel at ease in her chair, and that now can mean embracing silence. Sometimes, she can let her haircutting and styling talents do the talking.
Styblo feels grateful that she’s found a home at Olde Soul Barbershop where she is able to showcase her expertise while feeling completely welcomed and accepted. She continues to grow and excel as a stylist and looks forward to all that her future has in store.
You can find Styblo and the rest of the talented Olde Soul team at 4524 Mattie Street or by visiting www. oldesoulbarbershop.com.
A local gem, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum engages visitors year-round.
BY CRISTINA TANGREDI
As the winter months bring cooler temperatures, finding engaging indoor activities for the whole family can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, the Mueller community has a neighborhood gem just around the corner: the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum, otherwise known as the LBJ Presidential Library.
Whether you’re planning a fun family day out, looking to spark your children’s curiosity or eager to dive into a piece of
history yourself, the LBJ Presidential Library offers something for everyone and is a great addition to the Mueller neighborhood.
As an archival library and museum, it is a dynamic center that makes history both accessible and immersive. This library houses 45 million pages of historical documents, photos and interactive exhibits that tell a story about the life and legacy of Lyndon B. Johnson as well as his wife, Claudia Alta
“Lady Bird” Johnson.
It also features a variety of temporary exhibits spanning all genres. Past highlights include “Ladies and Gentlemen...The Beatles!,” “Lady Bird: Beyond the Wildflowers” and “Motown: The Sound of Young America.”
With its rotating exhibits, there’s always something new to explore. The library’s focus on experiential learning offers a lasting, impactful way to engage with history.
The library’s exhibits make history both engaging and accessible to visitors of all ages. At the heart of the facility is the Great Hall, a stunning space that makes you feel like you’re stepping into history itself. Its sheer size—equivalent to 6.6 Olympic-sized swimming pools—adds to its magic.
The Great Hall features both permanent and temporary exhibits that visitors can explore on their own time. Exhibits are full of details and artifacts that make visitors feel like they are traveling back in time.
Among the highlights of the Great Hall is the moon rock exhibit, where visitors can get an up-close look at an actual piece of the moon. It’s a must-
see for anyone intrigued by space exploration.
The 10th floor features a replica of the Oval Office, complete with President Johnson’s original desk from his time at the White House. This exhibit allows visitors to step into the role of the president and imagine making decisions that shaped the nation. Nearby, you’ll also find Lady Bird Johnson’s office, where personal papers she left behind offer a glimpse into her work.
On the building’s lower level, the current temporary exhibit, “Ain’t No Daylight in Vietnam: March 1968,” will remain open until 2025. This powerful walk-through exhibit offers a deeply moving exploration of life during the
Vietnam War, focusing on one of its most pivotal years.
Visitors can experience what this time was like from multiple perspectives, with photographs, artifacts, letters and personal accounts from soldiers, families, medics and civilians.
The exhibit also features two staged 1960s living rooms, complete with period magazines, toys and home décor, making it feel as though you are living during this decade.
The library was also intentional in providing spaces to sit, reflect and decompress. This exhibit serves as both a heartfelt tribute to those who served and a rich educational opportunity to understand this transformative period in history.
The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum is located at 2313 Red River Street, right around the corner from Mueller, and there is free parking in Lot 38.
Tickets are available in person and online at www.lbjlibrary.org, where you can also find additional information and resources.
The library is committed to making visits accessible to anyone eager to learn. It welcomes group visits by reservation and, with advance planning, students and classes can enjoy a personalized guided tour led by one of the museum’s experts.
Through a wide range of programs, workshops and events, the library also creates opportunities for learning and connection with the nation’s leaders.
One signature initiative is the “Evening With” series, which features live and virtual discussions with renowned historians, journalists, politicians, filmmakers and authors. High-profile
• The library houses the largest collection of campaign buttons in the United States.
• Fun photo opportunities abound throughout the library and museum.
• There is an on-site gift shop.
guests, including President Joe Biden and Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have spoken at the library as part of this program.
Beyond public events, the LBJ Library actively supports educators across Texas through its Education Outreach Program.
The library’s education specialists travel directly to schools, districts and educational service regions to provide professional development, lesson plans and dynamic programming for students.
These resources are offered at no cost to Title I schools or those where over 50 percent of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, ensuring that equitable,
high-quality learning experiences are accessible to all.
Additional curriculum resources and lesson plans are available online at www. lbjlibrary.org, where the public can easily download and use them as needed.
As the weather cools down, there’s no need to hibernate. Mueller residents are fortunate to have a place nearby where we can stay warm, stay curious and dive into history.
Cristina Tangredi is a communications professional dedicated to creating community-first communications and has over seven years of experience in nonprofits, government agencies and PR firms.
Origin Hotel and Blue Lacy restaurant are the genesis of gatherings and celebrations—especially during the holidays.
It’s holiday time, and Mueller is ready for it! You’d be hard pressed to find a neighborhood that does the holidays with more energy than you see right here. The downtown comes alive with beautiful lights and holiday décor, while many businesses join in the fun. The excitement is palpable for visitors and residents alike.
During the holidays (or really any time of year), the hub of activity in the neighborhood centers around Origin Hotel and Blue Lacy restaurant.
Located right in the heart of it all, the hotel serves as a gathering place for us all to enjoy. Whether you have family coming to town, have a business meeting to schedule, are planning your very own staycation or just want a great local meal, you can find everything you need right at the Origin.
Suite Charity
Opened in July 2022, Origin Hotel has quickly become a mainstay in Mueller. With its boutique, modern feel, the hotel reflects the local vibe and culture. From the lobby décor to the uniquely decorated rooms, there is no question you are in Austin! With amenities galore, there truly is something for everyone.
Its walkability to all the best that Mueller has to offer, along with its proximity to downtown and other Austin attractions, makes the Origin a desired destination spot.
Within the hotel are several different interesting suite options: the Capitol Suite, with an incredible view of downtown, as well as Mess
with the Bull and Violet Crowne, with their own unique appointments and features.
But it’s the Origin Suite that is extra special, especially during the holidays.
With a tradition that started last year and continues this year, the Origin Suite takes on a different personality during the holidays: It transforms into the “Home Alone” Suite.
Patterned after the family-favorite “Home Alone” movie, the suite pays homage to the classic film, fully decorated for the holidays with amenities including its own Christmas tree and working train set. Bring the family and enjoy complimentary breakfast, freshly baked cookies and champagne (for the adults, of course) The perfect family experience! And since the holidays are an important time to give back, the Origin partners with the Ronald McDonald House in Mueller to give away a twonight stay in the suite to a deserving RMH family.
Aside from the hotel’s room accommodations, there are a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for
scheduling your next corporate or private meeting, event or party.
A particularly inviting space is the patio adjacent to Blue Lacy. This shaded area, with comfortable seating, fans and fire pits, can be used year-round and is a great option for your next gathering.
And of course, the holidays and all that goes with them can certainly make anyone hungry. With a nod to a time gone by, Blue Lacy offers “a fresh take on yesterday’s greatest hits.”
The restaurant recently brought in a brand-new chef and released a new diner-style menu full of comfort-food favorites. You can enjoy breakfast (served all day) as well as lunch and dinner featuring light bites, burgers, milk shakes, local craft beers, cocktails and more.
Named after the Texas state dog, the Blue Lacy eatery offers live music and monthly themed brunches in a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere.
So, as the holiday season begins to kick into high gear, remember all that is available right in the heart of Mueller at Origin Hotel and Blue Lacy—and celebrate locally!
Poem by Charles Cann
Before in another land
I would walk along a pond bank bound with phragmite reeds waving in the light air my sleek black dog throwing herself heedlessly into the water sending spray high around her feeling through the lily pads yapping with unbound joy slipping over waterlogged black snags dislodging disgruntled turtles Over against the other side cruise mated ducks eiders mallards and pintails a male mute swan sails toward her wings wide threatening harm protecting his mate Hailey ignores Way high up on the tips of feathery white pines huge twig nests great blue herons stand sentinel on the edges like pteranodons still and watchful
The fragrance of sweet fern fills the air as we leave the pond and enter the deep woods Hailey tracks back and forth across the trail nose down she stops and tests the air the hair on her back stands up and mine as well is it a deer moving off or the scent of a coyote following us
We move on through the wood hearing distant birds
I pick a sassafras twig to bat horseflies from my head and Hailey’s back as she passes me on the path we pass through sacred holly groves and green fern meadows between the trees past deep black venal pools and the song of frogs Hailey is driven to wade through each grabbing up sticks and carrying them in her mouth
We leave the trail
Charles Cann is a Mueller resident and member of the Mueller Neighborhood Association who is also an artist, retired woodworker, writer and bluegrass musician.
I find a fallen moss covered log and sit to clear my mind silence rolls over me
Hailey roams but comes back to check on me
Quiet
just the two of us
She and I
Mueller’s beautiful landscape often makes us forget we’re just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin—a juxtaposition captured in this shot by Dayo Ogunleke, who has been a Mueller resident for two years and loves to take long, early-morning walks while capturing the heart and hue of the community.
