Mueller February 2024 by Wainscot Media

Mueller

February 2024

STEAMIES

A DUMPLINGS DESTINATION

INSIDE MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL GET TO KNOW MUELLER’S WILDLIFE

Raising Spirits

at Lazarus Brewing Company

0 MUE_Cover_0224_Final.indd 1

2/5/24 2:47 PM

Untitled-3 11 Untitled-39

2/2/24 2/1/24 11:24 8:39 AM AM

Untitled-1 1

2/5/24 11:06 AM

FEBRUARY 2024

Contents

22 28

IN EVE RY ISSU E

Publisher’s Note A CLIMATE OF LEARNING

What’s New EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

F E AT U R ES

Meet Me at the Market STEAMIES DUMPLINGS

30 Better Health IS IT A COLD, FLU OR COVID-19?

Inside Marshall Middle School

With doors open at last, the school and its leadership look forward to building new programs and establishing a culture of learning.

Suds and Spirit

Pastor Christian Cryder and his wife, Marilyn, nurture the faithful at church and build community at Lazarus Brewing Company.

22 The Wildlife of Mueller

Though often hidden, prairie creatures both great and small share local parks, natural areas and even neighborhoods.

28 Food That Lifts Your Mood

32 Photo Op WINTER BLOOMS

O N T HE COVER

Whether they’re making beer or coffee, Marilyn and Christian Cryder aim to build community at Lazarus Brewing Company.

The most powerful “medicine” for feeling good may be what you put on your plate.

2 | MUELLER 2 MUE_TOC_0224_Final.indd 2

2/5/24 3:38 PM

COMMERCIAL UNITS AVAILABLE! THE GATEWAY TO MUELLER Parkside at Mueller offers a unique opportunity to own ground-floor commercial space in the award winning Mueller neighborhood. Direct-entry commercial units are available for sale, and range in size from 2,500 – 3,400+ square feet. Delivering early 2024, please reach out for more information! SALES CONTACTS JAKE MALONE

PAUL BYARS, CCIM

512.897.3075

512.694.0878

JAKE@SAYERSADVISORS.COM

PAUL@SAYERSADVISORS.COM

LOCAL HOT-SPOTS! ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE COLLEEN’S KITCHEN BAO’D UP RESTORE HYPRE-WELLNESS MARAFUKU RAMEN SWEETGREEN & SO MUCH MORE!

Untitled-1 11 Untitled-39

2/2/24 9/7/23 11:26 8:48 AM

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A Climate of Learning

Mueller MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher Liz Reingold

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARGARITA GARCIA ACEVEDO

welcoming addition to our community. Check them out! As we are now more than halfway into the inaugural school year at Dr. General Garwood Marshall Middle School, our writer Carmen Gray sat down to talk with Jordan Benson, the school’s principal. In Carmen’s story, we learn all about the exciting things happening there as well as amazing things yet to come. Carmen also took a deep dive into the fascinating wildlife that inhabits our Mueller community alongside us. Living just a few miles from downtown in an urbanish environment often makes us forget that we share our land with lots of critters who make our community so unique. To round out the issue, in our Meet Me at the Market article, we talk with Preston Day, owner of Steamies Dumplings. Aside from making the best dumplings around, he dabbles in so many businesses, we can’t keep up with him! As the last of winter holds on, let’s enjoy this weather while we have it. Before we know it, we will be sweltering and longing for these lovely days!

In my memories, February always felt

cold and dreary—until I moved here to Mueller. What incredible weather we have been enjoying recently. It makes me forget that we are still very much in winter. And the fact that we got some much-needed rain was just icing on the cake. Even though the weather has been wonderful, winter remains a terrific time to learn about something new. This month we tell the fascinating backstory behind the spiritual journey of our neighbors down the road at Lazarus Brewing Company. Their story is inspirational, and their brewery is a

Liz Reingold Publisher

Art Director Sue Park Copy Editor Nancy Fass Contributing Writer Carmen Gray Photographer Margarita Garcia Acevedo Marketing Coordinator Alexandra Garcia

WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Creative Director Kijoo Kim 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.

4 | MUELLER 4 MUE_Letter_0224_Final.indd 4

2/5/24 3:46 PM

We believe in hand making all our dumplings using only simple, locally sourced ingredients you can pronounce. Each dumpling is handmade from scratch, including the dough.

Hours:

Visit Us 6929 Airport Blvd Ste 148, Austin, TX 78752 Contact Us (737) 708-8082 hello@steamiesdumplings.com IG: @steamies_dumplings Shop Online https://steamiesdumplings.com/

Untitled-1 1

1/31/24 8:52 AM

Got a great image for Photo-Op? PHOTO OP

‘Something Waits Beneath’

Scenes like this in Mueller Lake Park, along with words from a prominent American artist, prompted local poet Susan Martinello to pen these verses.

I prefer winter and fall, when you feel the bone structure of the landscape. Something waits beneath it, the whole story doesn’t show. — ANDREW WYETH

As a kid in red galoshes, I’d tromp about our snowy backyard, swipe with mittened hands at humps and bumps to uncover a watering can with ice inside or a ball my brother dropped at the sound of the dinner bell, my steps a chaotic dot-to-dot of blind wells filled with blue shadow. Massachusetts winters snuck up on us. Blizzards took our yard by surprise time and time again, while here in Texas the land lies lean in winter. At the feet of trees, not snow but fallen leaves blanket roots, the bones of earth. They hold the lake shore where I walk, cup duck-prints at the soft edge. Even the mud sparkles when ice paints the park, each twig and bush winking and laughing. But ice cracks, its dream drips away, back to cold mornings, faded grass. I used to sit in a leafless apple tree, a girl pretending to be Jo March in her cold garret. Now, feet on the ground, I ponder riddles inscribed by branches across the sky, puzzle the restless tingle of the earth beneath.

Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to liz.reingold@muellermagazine.com.

32 | MUELLER 32 Mueller_PhotoOp_0124_Final.indd 32

1/8/24 12:51 PM

Email your photo and a short description to Liz.Reingold@muellermagazine.com

Mueller_PhotoOp_1-4p_0224_CVR.indd 1 Untitled-39 1

2/2/24 Untitled-3 11:03 AM 1

1/31/2411:29 10:27 AM 2/2/24 AM

WHAT’S NEW

In the Neighborhood GET ON THE THINKERY LIST

At Little Thinkers Preschool, children learn through a hands-on, play-based approach centered on their interests, skills and needs. The waitlist is open for the 2024-2025 school year! Learn more at www.thinkeryaustin.org/preschool.

LOOKING AHEAD AT LEARNING EXPRESS Take advantage of these activities only at Learning Express Toys & Gifts of Austin! • Drop in every first Sunday of the month for Pokémon trading card fun. • Check out the Easter Bunny Buffet. Now through Easter, spend $30 to get a free personalized Easter basket. • Visit for an Easter egg coloring event on March 17. Entry is free.

MOVIE NIGHT AT LAZARUS With spring nearing, it’s time for March Madness at Lazarus on Airport. March 13 is movie night, which also includes a doggy meetup. Bring your pup for canine fun and watch the comedy mockumentary “Best in Show.” The movie begins at sunset.

6 | MUELLER 6 MUE_What'sNew_0224_Final.indd 6

2/5/24 3:49 PM

The Origin Hotel is pleased to offer the following concessions for 2024 meetings or events that are booked by March 31st, 2024. • • • •

Waived Meeting Room Rental ($500 Value!) with $1,000 F&B minimum for events held between March 1st through June 30th. Complimentary Social Hour w $1,500 F&B Minimum (House Beer & Wine, $500 Value). Champagne Toast for up to 120 ppl with a Blue Lacy Buyout @ $3,000 ($900 Value!). 5,000 Wyndham Rewards bonus points for the meeting planner. Contact our Sales team at info@originhotelaustin.com or by dialing 737-610-6862 and mention this Mueller Magazine promotion.

originhotel.com/austin

1825 McBEE STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78723

OriginHotel_1-2H_Mueller_0224GD.indd 1

512-861-1140

2/1/24 10:52 AM

 Let’s Get Social! Join our online community.

  @muellermagazine Have a photo or story you think should be featured? Want to learn more about advertising in our pages? Contact us at hello@muelleremagazine.com

Untitled-39 1 Mueller_Social_1-4p_GD.indd 1

12/4/23 9:52 AM Untitled-2 1

2/2/24 11:32 AM 2/1/24 8:51 AM

MEET ME AT THE MARKET

A Dumplings Destination Chef Preston Day was a regular customer at Steamies—and jumped at the chance to buy the business. Comfort food means different things to different people, but for serial entrepreneur Preston Day, owner of Steamies Dumplings, it means, of course, dumplings. Day harkens back to his youth, when summers were spent in Hawaii and he developed fond memories of visiting family and eating great Asian food. Having an Asian mother and a family history of chefs and owners of Chinese

restaurants meant that he was always surrounded by Asian delicacies. Pot stickers and dumplings became his comfort food. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Day frequented the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller and discovered dumplings at Steamies. He found himself buying them every week. Then he brought them home to his mother, who gushed, “These are the

best dumplings I have had anywhere outside of Hawaii.” It was then that Day knew they were truly special. When the opportunity to purchase the business arose, Day jumped on it. Day is an accomplished chef in his own right—he went to culinary school in Florence, Italy—so this opportunity allowed him to couple his love of dumplings with his culinary talents.

8 | MUELLER 8-11 MUE_Market_0224_Final.indd 8

2/5/24 3:54 PM

Preston Day grew up loving dumplings while visiting family in Hawaii. Trained as a chef in Italy, he combines his passions as owner of Steamies.

FEBRUARY 2024

8-11 MUE_Market_0224_Final.indd 9

|9 2/5/24 3:54 PM

MEET ME AT THE MARKET

10 | MUELLER 8-11 MUE_Market_0224_Final.indd 10

2/5/24 3:54 PM

Scaling Up Steamies was a solid family brand, and Day’s intention was to continue making the business a family affair. He and his sister, Kelsey Day, run the business together, with input from their mother, who brings her own authenticity to the mix. In addition to its presence at the Farmers’ Market, Steamies also had a brick-and-mortar location on Airport Boulevard that was used mainly as a prep facility for the market and for frozen takeout. When Day purchased the business, he kept recipes the same—all dumplings are handmade with locally sourced proteins and vegetables, many of them from businesses at the Farmers’ Market. But he has scaled up the business, adding hot, fully prepared food along with new product offerings.

This year, Steamies also had a booth at the Austin City Limits Music Festival, where long lines told the story of how popular these little dumplings are. “Steamies may be expanding and growing,” Day explains, “but it is our roots at the Farmers’ Market that mean the most to me. There, we can connect with customers in a unique and special way. We enjoy seeing our regulars and love meeting new customers each week.”

New Ventures

As if running Steamies was not enough to keep Day busy, he has his hands in multiple other businesses. From a tech start-up to his very own tequila brand, he brings his expertise to every project he takes on. Where does he go from here? In addition to continuing to grow Steamies, he has recently partnered

with well-known food influencer David Douglass. Together, they will be opening a casual wine/jazz bar called Prati. Here, Day will tap into his Italian culinary training, making authentic, handmade Roman pasta in a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. But that’s not all. There are a couple of other Asian-inspired restaurants on the horizon—hopefully one in Mueller. “Mueller is a special place to me,” Day says with a smile. “I am excited to spread my wings right here in the neighborhood beyond the Farmers’ Market. This community is where I want to be.” Stay tuned as details emerge about this new project in Mueller! Until then, you can find Steamies on the Philomena Street entrance to the market along Branch Park or at 6929 Airport Blvd.

FEBRUARY 2024

8-11 MUE_Market_0224_Final.indd 11

| 11 2/5/24 3:54 PM

Get in Here! Become a contributing writer or photographer for Mueller magazine.

Mueller To contribute, contact Liz Reingold at Liz.Reingold@muellermagazine.com

Mueller_Contribute_FP.indd Untitled-39 1 1

8/10/23 2/2/24 11:33 11:54 AM

GET MASHED. Get wild, add mashed potatoes and gravy to your favorite sub while you can! We recommend the Bobbie®, of course.

VISIT US OR ORDER ONLINE 1200 Barbara Jordan Blvd Suite 360 Austin TX, 78723

FREE SMALL SUB

WITH SMALL SUB PURCHASE

The Bobbie®

Let us cater your next event INDIVIDUAL BOX LUNCHS SHOW AD|MEATBALL OR USE THIS PARTY THIS TRAYS BAR CODE AT CHECKOUT: 2SUBSTX PARTY SALADS | DESSERTS

Coupon valid for one free small sub with one small sub purchase only, free sub must be of equal or lesser value. Limit 1 offer per transaction. Offer valid at the Barbara Jordan, Austin ocation only. Coupon has no monetary value and cannot be exchanged for legal tender. Cannot be combined with other offers. ©2023 Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, Inc. Management reserves all rights. Expires 1/30/24. POS - QTR - BOGO FreeSmSub

512.520.5885 order.capriottis.com | www.capriottis.com

Capriottis_1-2H_0324_final.indd 1

2/2/24 12:26 PM

Untitled-2 1

12/4/23 8:48 AM

Thank you, A new restaurant & bar concept from Reyna & Maritza Vazquez, founders of Veracruz All Natural, inspired by their mother's Fonda in Veracruz, Mexico

for the community support!

Online Orders

veracruzfonda.com

Give us your feedback at Hello@MuellerMagazine.com

027_MUE_0224.indd 1 Mueller_ThankYou_0823_GD.indd 1

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

1905 Aldrich St #125

8/10/23Untitled-1 11:26 AM1

12/4/2312:40 8:38PM AM 2/2/24

Inside Marshall Middle School With doors open at last, the school and its leadership look forward to building new programs and establishing a culture of learning. BY CARMEN GRAY

Many of us have been eagerly anticipating the opening of Dr. General Garwood Marshall Middle School in Mueller as we have watched it being planned and built over many years. It was one of two new schools built as part of a 2017 bond program. The bond totaled $1.05 billion and modernized 16 campuses in the Austin Independent School District. When Marshall Middle School opened its doors in fall 2023, a cohort of sixth grade students were the lucky group to be a part of its inaugural year. It currently is open for enrollment to families who are zoned to Andrews, Blanton, Harris, Jordan, Overton, Pecan Springs, NormanSims and Winn Montessori elementary schools, although there will be room for transfers next year. The school will incorporate a seventh grade in the fall of 2024 (current rising sixth graders) and finally an eighth grade in 2025, when it will be a middle school filled with a full complement of sixth through eighth graders.

Cultivating Students The goal of this modern new middle school is to create a positive environment where teaching and learning are enjoyable. The school’s staff members are equity-minded and believe that socialemotional learning should be ongoing in all classrooms for all students. With a college- and career-oriented mindset, Marshall Middle School cultivates the unique gifts and creative talents of every student. Jordan Benson, the school’s proud principal, formerly served as a founding administrator and assistant principal at Bertha Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy. She comes with a wide range of skills to lead the new middle school. Not only does Benson have an undergraduate degree in human cognition and organizational psychology, but she also has taught science to middle schoolers and achieved her master’s degree in educational

leadership and policy studies from The University of Texas at Arlington. She is also a mother of boy/girl toddler twins, so she not only has the perspective of an educational leader but also understands firsthand the importance of equitable education for her own children. “Our school is very fortunate to have had an incredible, student-focused architectural team design the building with collaborative spaces in mind,” Benson says. “This allows teachers to be creative in how they teach with diverse groupings—and even include outdoor learning time.” It has been a unique experience to be charged with creating the culture of a new middle school, Benson says. The effort has been different at Marshall than at other schools, she says, “because the staff is able to walk down a learning neighborhood [hallway] and see into all the classrooms to learn from one another. We have this ability because of the building design and because we are a small staff right now.”

14 | MUELLER 14-17 MUE_Marshall_0223_Final.indd 14

2/5/24 3:58 PM

Under the leadership of Jordan Benson, principal of Dr. General Garwood Marshall Middle School (opposite page), the first class of sixth graders is setting the stage for expanding enrollment and programs.

FEBRUARY 2024

14-17 MUE_Marshall_0223_Final.indd 15

| 15 2/5/24 3:58 PM

16 | MUELLER 14-17 MUE_Marshall_0223_Final.indd 16

2/5/24 3:58 PM

“Our school is very fortunate to have had an incredible, studentfocused architectural team design the building with collaborative spaces in mind.” - Jordan Benson, principal

A Vision for Programs Current offerings at Marshall Middle School include a dual-language program that combines Spanish and English, which 40 percent of students enrolled at the school attend. Other notable programs include band (beginner) classes with differentiated instruction, orchestra, guitar, choir, physical education, advanced academics and CTE (career and technology education) programming. Next year, there will be theater and digital media options. The following year, there will be a Health and Science Pathway program for eighth graders. Benson says she’s excited about next year and the years to come. There are leadership opportunities for students; the school has a house system for students in place with leaders for each “house,” and next year’s seventh graders will go on to become the leaders for incoming sixth graders. Benson has taken advantage of this opportunity to continue building campus culture. “We have a full range of fine arts programming,” Benson adds. “And we will have athletics programs next year that include tennis, soccer, volleyball and basketball.” Benson says the school has 220 students currently, and space will be available next year for transfers in seventh grade. She anticipates enrollment being between 500 and 550 next year. Marshall Middle School is named after Dr. Marshall, who was a beloved mathematics professor at Huston-Tillotson University, Austin’s premier historically Black college or university. The university’s athletic teams are the Rams, and Marshall Middle School looks to be creating Rams characteristics such as strength, intelligence and bravery in staff and students in Mueller. We are fortunate to house this fine middle school in our neighborhood. Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a dual-language teacher, a published author and freelance writer, and contributing editor for Latino magazine.

FEBRUARY 2024

14-17 MUE_Marshall_0223_Final.indd 17

| 17 2/5/24 3:58 PM

Christian and Marilyn Cryder offer beer, coffee and street food in comfortable locations where neighbors can gather.

18 | MUELLER 18-21 MUE_Feature_Lazarus_0224_Final.indd 18

2/5/24 4:01 PM

Suds AND

Spirit Pastor Christian Cryder and his wife, Marilyn, nurture the faithful at church and build community at Lazarus Brewing Company.

Life is a journey—and in

some instances, that journey teaches us about our destiny. Such is the case with Christian and Marilyn Cryder, owners of Lazarus Brewing Company, located on Airport Boulevard. The Cryders’ journey included years of Christian working in the software industry in Montana (where he was raised), Seattle, San Francisco and Philadelphia, where he simultaneously attended seminary. Long hours without much personal satisfaction led them

to uproot their lives and move across the country—back to Montana—to fulfill a personal calling. Their deep religious and spiritual foundation led them to start their own parish with Christian as the pastor. They remained in Montana for seven years, touching lives, sharing their message and bringing the community together. It was also during those years that something unexpected happened: Christian learned how to brew beer, opening a whole new chapter in his life.

FEBRUARY 2024

18-21 MUE_Feature_Lazarus_0224_Final.indd 19

| 19 2/5/24 4:01 PM

Faith, Beer and Adventure When wanderlust once again grabbed the Cryders, they set out to find a place where a beer-brewing, people-loving pastor and his family could settle down and fuel their adventurous spirit. This led them directly to Austin, where they wanted to both plant a church and start a brewery. Christian describes this move as “a risk many considered crazy. But anything worthwhile in this world requires some degree of risk.” Wanting to start a brewery and a parish at the same time was a huge goal. Yet they did that and more. The first Lazarus location opened on East Sixth Street on Christmas Eve 2016. They also founded All Souls Church, which operates from their home. Several years later, they launched Lazarus on Airport. They make 43,000 gallons of beer per year at each location, brewing more than 70 different types of beer.

“Anything worthwhile in this world requires some degree of risk .” - Christian Cryder

20 | MUELLER 18-21 MUE_Feature_Lazarus_0224_Final.indd 20

2/5/24 4:01 PM

Sharing Life and Joy While beer may be the primary focus at Lazarus, the Cryders couple that particular form of brew with another—house-roasted coffee, along with authentic Mexican street food. “Beer and tacos are the staples, but our coffee is the cultural component,” Christian says. Roasting is done inhouse, spearheaded by Marilyn. She sources beans from around the world and puts her personal touch into each batch. Coffee is served all day and gives people a reason to relax and stay awhile. If the coffee and beer don’t get you to linger, the atmosphere will. The

intention was to create a comfortable neighborhood space where the community can come together. A welcoming back patio at Lazarus on Airport sends that message, with the crown jewel being a 22-foot, two-ton stained glass work of art that graces the space. Created by the South African artist Anika Van Der Merwe, “The Woman and the Dragon” invokes biblical images from Revelation and was the largest stained glass piece installed in the world in 2022. It truly is a masterpiece and one that is meant to be enjoyed. The Cryders make connections

on a deeply personal level, sharing life over coffee, beer, tacos and joy. They combine entrepreneurship with spirituality, but it makes no difference if those around them share the same beliefs they do. When asked what one thing about Lazarus is most important to him, Christian breaks out into a huge smile. “We may sell coffee, beer and tacos, but we are in the business of people,” he says. It may have taken them a while to get there, but the Cryders’ journey clearly brought them to the place they were always meant to be—building community one brew at a time.

FEBRUARY 2024

18-21 MUE_Feature_Lazarus_0224_Final.indd 21

| 21 2/5/24 4:01 PM

The Wildlife of Mueller Though often hidden, prairie creatures both great and small share local parks, natural areas and even neighborhoods. BY CARMEN GRAY

As many have noticed, despite the fact that the Mueller neighborhood is nestled in the heart of the city, it’s also home to a diverse array of wild animals that thrive in the region’s unique ecosystems. Our former empty spaces for years provided a haven for a wide range of wildlife species, some more welcome than others these days. As Mueller has historically been within the Blackland Prairie of Texas, the local habitat includes mixes of grasses and wildflowers along

with the kind of woody vegetation that now surrounds ponds and Mueller Lake. Access to water allows many types of birds, fish, frogs, crawfish, turtles and our beloved ducks to flourish. Avid birders in the neighborhood can spot cedar waxwings, purple martins, goldencheeked warblers, monk parakeets, great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, barn owls, cardinals, blue jays and hummingbirds, among other interesting feathered friends.

22 | MUELLER 22-25 MUE_Wildlife_0224_Final.indd 22

2/5/24 4:04 PM

FEBRUARY 2024

22-25 MUE_Wildlife_0224_Final.indd 23

| 23 2/5/24 4:04 PM

Natural Pest Control Neighbors new to Austin, or even to Texas, may be startled to encounter some of our unique wildlife. In warmer months, Mexican free-tailed bats may be seen gliding through the skies at dusk. They are among Austin’s most iconic creatures, as our city is home to over a million Mexican free-tailed bats, which help keep the mosquito population at bay and are not to be feared. And, of course, we are in Texas, and there are snakes. It’s possible to see the Texas rat snake slithering in tall grasses along trails. With rats and mice being regular residents throughout the grassy areas, the nonvenomous Texas rat snake plays a crucial role in controlling rodent populations. With its distinctive yellow-and-black pattern, these snakes are helpers in our environment. Then there are possums, also known as opossums. These strange-looking marsupials have adapted well to urban life. They are nocturnal and are often spotted scavenging for food in alleys or garden areas. With their distinctive prehensile tails and a somewhat grizzled appearance, possums have earned a reputation for quirky behavior and looks. However, they are highly beneficial, as they, too, help control insect and rodent populations.

24 | MUELLER 22-25 MUE_Wildlife_0224_Final.indd 24

2/5/24 4:04 PM

Habitat for Predators Last but not least are foxes and coyotes. Red foxes are recognizable by their reddish-brown fur and bushy tails, and are highly adaptable to urban environments. Foxes may establish dens in green spaces or wooded areas. They are primarily nocturnal, making them more challenging to spot during the day. Foxes are opportunistic feeders, consuming a varied diet that includes small mammals, birds, insects and fruits. Not to be mistaken for foxes are coyotes, which have become a common sight in Mueller. They are most active at dawn and dusk, which reduces direct interactions with humans. Despite

their presence, coyotes are often elusive and tend to avoid direct contact with people. Our urban coyotes have learned to thrive by taking advantage of the diverse food sources available in neighborhoods. Their diet can include small mammals, birds, insects, fruits and even human refuse. Like bats, snakes and possums, coyotes can help control rodent populations, acting as a natural form of pest control. However, their opportunistic nature can sometimes lead to conflicts with humans, especially when they come into contact with domestic pets. The lesson here is to ensure that your garbage bins are secured and to supervise small pets when they are outside.

If you are a nature enthusiast, consider taking advantage of the many opportunities available to explore our natural habitats with experts. One excellent place to start is the Travis Audubon Society, which hosts regular walks in Mueller and offers memberships, book talks and conservation advocacy resources. Visit www.travisaudubon.org to learn more. Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a dual-language teacher, a published author and freelance writer, and contributing editor for Latino magazine.

FEBRUARY 2024

22-25 MUE_Wildlife_0224_Final.indd 25

| 25 2/5/24 4:04 PM

Reach

virtually EVERY home in Mueller with your business message.

Mueller

To advertise, contact Liz Reingold at Liz.Reingold@muellermagazine.com

Mueller_Advertise_FP.indd Untitled-39 1 1

8/10/23 2/2/24 11:33 11:50 AM

Looking for that new spot to sit back and relax?

a free eer and a.

Welcome to

Paco’s Tacos!

Join us for some patio sittin’ and a great taco!

o meethbors!

Look Great, Feel Amazing! Take the guesswork out of your aesthetic goals and become a V/O Member. Wrinkle Relaxers - Dermal Fillers Spa Services - Skin Rejuvenation Wellness - Weight Loss - Body Contouring Memberships - Retail Products

We look forward to meeting our Mueller neighbors! Serving Breakfast All Day!

Mention this ad to become a V/O Restore Member and receive a free Signature Facial and $11/unit wrinkle relaxer plus additional discounts on services and products.

Happy Hour Tue - Fri: 5pm to 7pm Try one our new margaritas, Lime/Jalapeño, Cactus/Pomegranate, or Paloma! 1304 E. 51st Street

pacosaustin.com

V/O Med Spa Mueller 512.900.1051 www.viomedspa.com 1900 Aldrich Street, Suite 120 Austin, TX 78723

1 1/31/24 VOMedSpa_1-4p_Mueller_0224_revblack_GD.indd 12:47 PM

PacosTacos_1-4p_Mueller_0224_GD.indd 1

1/30/24 12:42 PM

Math and Reading Program LEARNING CENTERS

Quality Work & Quality Service It’s Tax time! Let your neighborhood CPAs be that strategic partner to help you plan and maximize your savings. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for personalized, expert guidance.

Schedule a FREE assessment today! practice makes possibilities TM

There is no shortcut to greatness. Mastery of skills takes practice. Your child can excel in math and reading … with practice.

Kumon Math and Reading Center of Austin - Mueller

Get to know us and our services at: CraneHoltzman.com contact@CraneHoltzman.com 512-215-0057

Crane&Holtzman_1-4_Mueller_0124_GDRev.indd 1 027_MUE_0224.indd 1

1/3/24Untitled-1 2:53 PM 1

2/1/2411:37 8:32AM AM 2/2/24

28 | MUELLER 28-29 MUE_BetterHealth_0224_Final.indd 28

2/5/24 4:02 PM

Food That Lifts Your Mood The most powerful “medicine” for feeling good may be what you put on your plate. What if you were offered a tool

that was guaranteed to lift your spirits and give you the energy to do all the things you want to do? The fact is, you already have this tool at your disposal. Numerous medical studies have found that what we eat on a daily basis is powerful “medicine”—perhaps the most powerful—for fighting depression and fatigue. Most people associate comfort with some kinds of food, such as pasta or ice cream. But the connection between food and how we feel is much deeper than many of us know. Food actually triggers chemical reactions in our brains that can lead to changes in our moods. How does what we eat affect the way we feel?

Food can reduce depression risk.

Research shows that a higher risk of depression is linked to a diet that includes few fruits and vegetables but lots of red or processed meat (deli meat, bacon, hot dogs) as well as high-fat dairy products such as whole milk and butter. Meanwhile, a diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, whole grains, fish and olive oil is strongly associated with a lower risk of depression.

Food can increase energy.

Sugary foods such as soda and candy lead to a sharp surge of energy because they trigger the brain to release a feel-good chemical called dopamine. However, this so-called

“sugar high” will be brief and will be followed by a slump in mood and energy levels. On the other hand, a well-balanced diet that includes healthy fats, whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables leads to steady levels of energy. Doctors sometimes see this effect in patients, with many of those who focus on a mostly plant-based diet reporting that they experience higher and more sustained energy levels.

Food can improve memory and thinking skills.

Research into large population samples from dozens of countries around the world have found that people who eat the healthiest diets are significantly less likely to have a decline in their thinking skills compared with people who ate the least healthy diets.

Food can ease anxiety.

Certain foods spur the release of the feel-good brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin. This category includes foods rich in the nutrient magnesium, such as leafy greens like spinach and Swiss chard, as well as nuts, seeds and whole grains. The same is true for foods rich in B vitamins, such as avocados and almonds, and foods that contain zinc, such as oysters, cashews, liver and egg yolks. These emotional benefits, of course, come on top of the physical benefits of a healthy diet—joints that don’t ache, fewer colds, better bowel function, lower cholesterol, reduced risk of heart and kidney disease, and much more.

YOUR PLATE, YOUR WAY Good-mood meals can be created using your favorite ingredients—no matter what cuisine you like. The eating plan most often linked to positive moods is called the Mediterranean diet, which is based on the traditional diet of people in areas bordering the Mediterranean Sea. But in reality, this way of eating has no geographic boundaries. Fruits, vegetables and fish differ from country to country, but they are just as nutritious and good for you wherever you live. The Mediterranean diet includes: • Daily consumption of seasonal vegetables and fruits, whole grains and healthy fats (such as those found in nuts and olive oil) • Weekly eating of fish, poultry, beans and eggs • Moderate portions of dairy products • Limited intake of red meat. The plan is easy to adapt, as can be seen in cuisines throughout the world. For example, many people of West African heritage use a lot of vegetables in favorite dishes, such as fufu, a recipe that begins with pounded yams or plantains. Beans, corn and peppers— all Mediterranean diet staples—are common in many Caribbean and Central American dishes. Black rice, used in many Chinese and Southeast Asian recipes, has higher levels of antioxidants (which protect cells) than many other types of rice.

FEBRUARY 2024

28-29 MUE_BetterHealth_0224_Final.indd 29

| 29 2/5/24 4:02 PM

BETTER HEALTH

Is It a Cold, Flu or COVID-19? They’re all viral, and they share some symptoms. Here’s some help telling the difference.

It may be late winter, but illness is still out there in Mueller—and can be confusing. Patients have upper-respiratory symptoms and worry that they may have COVID-19. What to do? First, it’s important to stay calm. The likelihood that you’re going to recover well from a cold, the flu or COVID-19 is very high. The important thing is to seek medical attention when you need it. Call your primary care doctor and describe your symptoms to find out what your next steps should be. However, if you feel that your symptoms warrant a trip to the Emergency Department—for example, if you’re having difficulty breathing—don’t delay. Statistics show that people with underlying health issues, such as cancer or diabetes, are most likely to have serious complications from COVID-19. Because the flu and COVID-19 share many symptoms, it isn’t possible to tell them apart without specific testing. But this chart can be used to get an idea of what your symptoms may mean.

COLD

FLU

COVID-19

HOW IT SPREADS

Droplets expelled by coughing, sneezing or talking; touching a surface that has the virus on it

KEY SYMPTOMS

Nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, possibly mild cough

Fever, chills, muscle aches, exhaustion; runny nose, sore throat, headache; possible nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

A wide range, including fever, cough, shortness of breath; sometimes, lack of taste or smell, which may come on suddenly. Some people experience only a few of these symptoms or none at all.

HOW IT’S DIAGNOSED

No test; diagnosis based on symptoms

Swab test performed by healthcare provider

Usually, swab or saliva test

TREATMENT

Bed rest; fluids; over-the-counter medications, such as decongestants, pain relievers and cough suppressants

Bed rest; fluids; over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. In severe or high-risk cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed.

Bed rest; fluids; over-the-counter medications. Antiviral medications or monoclonal antibodies may be used to treat those at increased risk of severe illness.

RECOVERY TIME

A few days to two weeks

A few days to two weeks, if no complications, such as pneumonia, develop

For mild cases, about two weeks; for more severe cases, six weeks or more

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Wash hands often; don’t touch face; avoid close contact with infected persons

Wash hands often; don’t touch face; avoid contact with infected persons. Annual flu vaccine is recommended for most people aged 6 months and older.

Wash hands often; don’t touch face; wear mask; maintain 6 feet of distance from others outside your home; avoid contact with infected persons; get recommended vaccinations.

30 | MUELLER 30 MUE_ColdFluCovid_0224_Final.indd 30

2/5/24 4:00 PM

View All Our Issues! Visit us online at muellermagazine.com.

Mueller

January 2024

THE FAMILY BEHIND TALISMAN COFFEE

MUELLER’S PUBLIC ART

Mueller

December 2023

THE RISE OF

TEXAS FRENCH BREAD

GET READY FOR WINTER

NEW YEAR’S EVE MUELLER STYLE

Mueller

November 2023

FRESH HERBS

IN FRIGID WEATHER

TIPS FOR HEALTHIER HOLIDAYS

SOURDOUGH PROJECT’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

TEXAS MUTUAL CEO

JEANETTE WARD

0 Mueller_Cover_0124_Final.indd 1

1/8/24 11:13 AM

Mueller

September 2023

INSIDE SCOOP

Thinkery Celebrates 10 Years

Serving Smiles

Curtain’s Up at the PAC

at Ronald McDonald House

0 Mueller_Cover_1223_Final.indd 1

12/4/23 2:11 PM

Mueller

August 2023

HOW OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

ON BIKE-FRIENDLY ROUTES

CAME TO LIFE

GOLF + CANTINA

FUN

KIDS CAN LEARN FROM

THE PERFECT PAIRING

RAISING READERS:

BUILDING MUELLER

TIPS FROM A LOCAL EXPERT

FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS

0 Mueller_Cover_1123_Final.indd 1

11/3/23 2:58 PM

Mueller

October 2023

FAMILY FUN

WITH CARGO BIKES

YOUR GARDEN: SPRING BEAUTY STARTS NOW

‘MARGARITAVILLE’ MEMORIES

The Gift of Life

MOTHERS’ MILK BANK AUSTIN

L’Oca d’Oro Cheers to seven years!

1 Mueller_Cover_0923_Final.indd 1

9/11/23 10:27 AM

Mueller_Cover_0823_Final.indd 1

8/21/23 12:52 PM

Authentic Tastes of Mexico 2 Mueller_Cover_1023_Final_Digital.indd 1

10/10/23 7:50 AM

Have a photo or story you think should be featured? Want to learn more about advertising in our pages? Contact us at hello@muellermagazine.com.

SeeAllIssues_FP_Mueller_0224.indd 027_MUE_0224.indd 1 1

2/2/24 12:03 12:41 PM PM

PHOTO OP

Winter Blooms

Mother Nature’s marvels are on full display after a cold

snap in January, as this tree at the entrance to Mueller Lake Park maintained its flowers even during the coldest part of winter. We are a hardy bunch in Texas—and so are the trees!

Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to liz.reingold@muellermagazine.com.

32 | MUELLER 32 MUE_PhotoOp_0224_Final.indd 32

2/5/24 3:58 PM

HAIL DAMAGE?

Have Your Roof Inspected And Repaired Before Your Insurance Runs Out!

GUTTERS • DAYLIGHTING • ROOFING • VENTILATION SHINGLE | METAL | SINGLE PLY

Call Today to schedule and appointment for a FREE estimate!

512-817-2410 qualityroofingtx.com

GuildCollective_FP_Mueller_0124_GD_V2.indd 027_MUE_0224.indd 1 1

2/2/24 1/8/24 11:38 1:45 PM AM

Coming Soon

Muskin Row Homes Facing Taniguchi Park

Exceptional Quality & Design! Built by The Muskin Company and designed by award-winning architecture firm, Clayton + Korte, the Tilley Row Homes boast a modern architectural aesthetic, designer finishes, and energyefficient features. Each row home features a detached garage apartment, offering the utmost flexibility. With its own kitchen, bathroom, and laundry connections, this space can be used as an office, guest quarters, or a rental unit, making these homes an exceptional investment. Available Spring 2024.

Hilary Herrin Realtor® Amanda Trevino Broker Associate Mueller Silent Market Team info@muellersilentmarket.com 512.761.5476

Compass is a licensed real estate broker. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

Untitled-5 1 027_MUE_0224.indd 1

1/31/24 2/2/24 11:38 12:36 PM AM