Mueller May 2026

NEIGHBORS IN HARMONY

A BAND CALLED DONNA

LOCAL BLOOM  PETALS, INK

GORGEOUS

Greenways

THE MAGIC OF OUR PARKS

Dish Combo

Half Sandwich or Shrimp Taco

Side Salad or Cup of Soup

Mueller is more than just our paved community. Take a step inside the Southwest and Southeast Greenways to explore the beautiful landscape right on our doorstep. 22 Neighbors in Harmony

Donna, a local Mueller band, is making waves with their music in Texas and beyond.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE A Month of Joy 8 WHAT’S NEW Connecting With the Community

MEET ME AT THE MARKET Stop and Smell the Roses

LOCAL TASTES

May Matcha Cake

mA MONTH OF JOY

MAY IS A MONTH made for celebrating. That may include graduates stepping into what’s next, the mothers and mother figures who shape us, and the simple beauty of the places we call home. Here in Mueller, that last one feels especially easy to appreciate this time of year. Our neighborhood is rich in natural beauty. From winding greenways to thoughtfully designed parks, Mueller stands as a living example of what’s possible when sustainability and community go hand in hand. This month, Cristina Tangredi sits down with the architectural firm behind those

greenways, offering a look at the vision and intentional planning that helped these spaces not only exist, but truly thrive.

Of course, this is Austin, so music is never far from the story. Mueller has its own share of incredible talent, and in this issue, Carmen Gray introduces us to the duo behind Donna, whose sound is as distinctive as it is captivating. It’s a reminder that creativity is all around us, often closer than we think.

And with Mother’s Day on the horizon, we’re leaning into a few thoughtful ways to celebrate. Brunch is always a favorite, but why not add something homemade to the mix? Alix Newton shares her Strawberry Matcha Cake, a sweet, beautiful gesture that’s sure to make Mom smile and be the perfect treat for May. Prefer flowers? Carmen connects with the team at Petals, ink to highlight their everchanging selection of blooms at the Mueller Market, an easy, meaningful way to brighten Mom’s day and the month.

There’s something for everyone in these pages, whether you’re celebrating a milestone, honoring someone you love, or simply soaking in the season.

However, you choose to spend this May, we hope it brings moments of connection, joy, and a deeper appreciation for the community we’re lucky to share.

Liz Reingold Publisher

Mueller MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher

Liz Reingold

Writers Alix Newton

Carmen Gray

Cristina Tangredi

Photographer

Margarita Garcia Acevedo

Marketing Coordinator

Nicole Higgins

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor

Elaine Quilici

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 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

DIRECTORY OF SPONSORS

Many thanks to our committed sponsors, who make it possible for us to bring you high-quality local stories each month. Shopping and doing business close to home are excellent ways to support our community. When you visit our sponsors, please tell them Mueller magazine sent you!

Alite Laser

Austin’s locally owned, family-run laser clinic for over 30 years. Offering expert laser hair removal and electrolysis, ethical treatments, real results, and payas-you-go care. Look good, feel great, be confident. 512-328-1555 | alitelaser.com

Dish Society

Dish Society is a Mueller neighborhood favorite for locally sourced food, everyday feel-good meals, good vibes, and great company

512-623-1498 | dishsociety.com @dishsociety

Floyd’s 99 Barbershop

Floyd’s 99 Barbershop offers expert cuts, shaves, and color for everyone—set in a fun, family-friendly space with our iconic poster wall and lively music. 325-268-5906 | floydsbarbershop.com @floyds99atx

Nature’s Treasures

Explore the beauty of Nature’s Treasures, your iconic rock and crystal shop since 2000, and invite nature into your daily life with home and garden décor, jewelry, sage and pocket stones. 512-472-5015 | ntrocks.com @naturestreasurestexas

Mexican Restaurant

Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina is a boutique family restaurant with homestyle cooking from South Central Mexico. Our bar features 100% Agave tequilas and Mezcales. All of our juices are homemade: no sugar added. 512-291-7154 | santacatarinarestaurant.com @santacatarinatx

Carlin Wealth Management

Carlin Wealth Management Group helps families optimize the efficiency of their finances. It also introduces Empowered Café, creating opportunities and inclusion for a staff with Down syndrome. 512-688-7414 | carlinwmg.com

Empowered Cafe

Empowered Café is a full-service coffee house, also offering juices, soup, sandwiches, and pastries from a friendly staff of individuals with Down syndrome 512-855-1222 | empoweredcafeatx.com

Kuper Sotheby’s

A distinguished real estate advisor and proud Mueller resident, offering expert guidance whether you’re buying, selling, or exploring the neighborhood. 512-831-6577 | sotheybysrealty.com @soud_twal

Origin Hotel

Discover Origin Hotel Austin, blending Texas charm with modern comfort, stylish rooms, and all-day dining from Blue Lacy right in the heart of Mueller. 512-861-1140 | originhotel.com @origin_austin

St. Austin Catholic School

Since 1917, St. Austin has partnered with families to form Christ-centered, academically strong, moral community leaders through faith, service, scholarship, and a nurturing Catholic environment. 512-886-1756 | staustinschool.org

Crane & Holtzman

Crane & Holtzman is a boutique, full-service accounting firm providing tax, consulting, and accounting services to individuals, businesses, and trusts. 512-215-0057 | craneholtzman.com

European Wax Center

European Wax Center is the numver one safe place to start removing hair safely and effectively at an incredibly affordable price. First Time Guests can try it for free. 512-617-9157 | waxcenter.com/pages/first-wax-free @europeanwax

Mueller Silent Market

Since 2008, the Mueller Silent Market Team has specialized in Mueller and Central Austin real estate, offering expert guidance on both public and private listings. 512-913-8642 | muellersilentmarket.com @muellersilentmarketteam

Parkside Family Vision

Parkside Family Vision provides comprehensive, familyfocused eye care in Mueller offering routine exams, advanced myopia management, and stylish eyewear with warm, personalized service to help your whole family see their best. 512-276-6117 | parksidefamilyvision.com @parksidefamilyvision

Texas Mutual

As the state’s leading workers’ compensation provider, Texas Mutual Insurance Company is dedicated to protecting employees, supporting local communities, and fortifying the state economy. 512-224-3800 | texasmutual.com @texasmutual

The Herb Bar

The Herb Bar, Austin’s oldest apothecary, has served the community for nearly 40 years with teas, tinctures, organic body products, and holistic workshops focused on wellness and connection.

512-444-6251 | theherbbar.com @theherbbar

ThoroughFare

Come

Fresh made from scratch food made from all clean ingredients in a full market experience including a bakery, cafe, deli, and grocery. thoroughfare.com | @thoroughfare Thursday, May 21st 4PM

Thinkery

Thinkery, a nonprofit children’s museum and home to Little Thinkers Preschool, sparks joyful, play-based STEAM learning so ALL children cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

512-469-6201 | thinkeryaustin.org @thinkeryatx

Vaura Pilates

Vaura Pilates fuses reformer precision with athletic training in a sensory rich studio. Energize your body, elevate your mind, and awaken within.

512-481-2795 | vaurapilates.com | @vaura-mueller

VIO Med Spa

Feel great, look amazing at VIO Med Spa. Our medical professionals specialize in skin rejuvenation, Botox, cosmetic injectables, skin care, weight loss and body contouring.

521-900-1051 | viomedspa.com @viomedspa.mueller

Connecting With the Community

As summer approaches in full swing, check out what’s going on in our community.

THINKERY

Exciting changes have come to Thinkery, with refreshed spaces designed to spark curiosity and inspire creativity. Explore Play Lab and the new Snack Zone. Even Fortastic Adventure is featured in a new space, offering fresh perspectives on the exhibit.

Explore these and many more evolving spaces and plan your next visit to Thinkery.

Visit thinkeryaustin.org/visit for more information.

LEARN MORE

The Mueller Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit building a strong, inclusive, and connected community through events, activities, advocacy, and outreach. To learn more about Mueller, visit muellerneighborhood.org.

BLOOD DRIVE

The Mueller Cares Wellness Event and Blood Drive will be a free, familyfriendly community event benefiting Mueller residents. Stop by Branch Park Pavilion on Saturday, May 9, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition to the blood drive hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross, local wellness vendors, kids’ activities, and community activations focused on healthy living will be present.

PALMETTO SUPERFOODS

Palmetto Superfoods opens in Mueller on May 9 at 10 a.m! Experience authentic Brazilian açaí, fresh ingredients, and fully customizable bowls. Proudly bringing their Bay Area roots to their first out-of-state location!

LOCAL AUTHORS

We love our writers! Frequent Mueller Magazine contributor Sarah Welch has launched Playhouse Books with partner Dottie Dixon. The indie children’s publisher celebrates curiosity, imagination, and play. Their debut picture book, “How to Fill Your Hug Bank” (May 5), helps kids discover the many ways love creates comfort and connection. Find more information at thehugbank.com.

POT LUCK IN THE PARK

May 3 will be the next Pot Luck in the Park. Bring a favorite dish to share your family traditions and flavors with Mueller neighbors. Look for MNA updates on time and location.

Stop and Smell THE ROSES

Petals, ink brings the joy of flowers to you.

BY CARMEN GRAY

JUST 25 MINUTES from downtown Austin, a seven-acre stretch of blackland prairie in Manor, Texas, produces a vibrant assortment of blooms that lucky shoppers can find at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller. Among the standout vendors is Petals, ink, a floral studio and small flower farm offering a true flower-to-table experience. Customers are invited to see, smell, and understand exactly where their flowers come from and why that matters.

In 2015, florist Gretchen O’Neil purchased the seven-acre property northeast of downtown. Inspired by a childhood surrounded by flowers and formative work on a small flower farm in Vermont, O’Neil brought her passion for locally grown blooms to Central Texas. At the time, she was living

downtown when the Manor property became available, and she took a leap of faith. That decision blossomed into a thriving floral studio and working farm that now supplies weddings, events, farmers’ markets, and homes across the city.

In 2024, the farm and design studio were purchased by O’Neil’s long-time employee Chandler Reed, who has continued the legacy of bringing beautiful cut flowers to the Austin area.

The farm, known as Grassdale, grows seasonal flowers yearround, adapting to the rhythms and extremes of the Texas climate. In addition to fields of wildflowers and native grasses, the land supports small fruit trees and cultivated favorites such as ranunculus, sweet peas, anemones, poppies, zinnias, and nigella.

BEAUTY IN BLOOM

Each season brings something new. Ranunculus, for example, has a fleeting but spectacular window during the cooler months, while poppies offer their own brief burst of color. Their short seasons serve as reminders that flowers, like produce, follow natural cycles. What appears at the market each week depends on weather patterns, soil conditions, pests, and timing. The selection will always be fresh, intentional, and thoughtfully grown. Reed says, “Mueller Market is the only farmers’ market we sell at. It is the best market in Austin!” That should definitely make Mueller residents feel extra fortunate to have such a vendor available.

On a recent visit, I picked up a bouquet that lasted nearly a full month, far longer than I expected. The blooms were distinctive, vibrant, and fragrant,

clearly cultivated with knowledge and care. That longevity felt like a quiet testament to the benefits of locally grown flowers.

Farm work is nonstop and demanding. Flower farmers have to contend with unpredictable weather, hungry insects, stubborn soil, and the constant cycle of seeding, tending, harvesting, and selling. In Texas, that also means experimentation. Farmers test different flower varieties and cultivation methods to withstand heavy clay soil and intense summer heat. It is work that requires resilience, creativity, and patience. Each bouquet you get from Petals, ink is a true labor of love.

This hyperlocal approach stands in sharp contrast to the global flower industry. The majority of flowers sold in the United States, particularly those popular around holidays like Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day, are grown

overseas. These blooms often travel thousands of miles by plane and truck, generating significant emissions along the way. Because the ideal window from field to vase is just three to five days, shipments move constantly to maintain freshness.

Mass-produced flowers are typically bred for hardiness, vivid color, and long shelf life. In the process, other characteristics such as fragrance are often diminished. Many supermarket roses, though visually perfect, carry little scent. By contrast, local flower farmers, particularly those using organic or low-spray practices, grow varieties closer to their original forms. The result is a bloom that may be slightly less uniform but far more expressive and fragrant.

“Do not forget to smell the flowers” feels less like a cliché and more like a rediscovered pleasure.

LOCAL CHARM

Supporting small, independent farms like Petals, ink does more than provide a beautiful bouquet. It sustains livelihoods, keeps money circulating within the local economy, and strengthens regional agricultural systems. Choosing local flowers aligns beauty with responsibility in a tangible way. Why not select something truly special the next time you’re looking for a bouquet for a loved one or even yourself?

Reed notes, “Our most popular product is our mixed bouquets. They are always changing throughout the season and offer the best glimpse into what is growing on the farm at the time. We also make mini mixed bouquets!”

In a culture accustomed to year-round availability and instant gratification, Petals, ink offers something slower, unique, and more grounded. It encourages customers to notice the season, appreciate imperfection, and consider the journey from seed to stem. When picking up a seed packet or a bouquet from Petals, ink you’ll leave with a story rooted in Texas soil.

You can follow along on their Instagram sites: @petals_ink and @grassdaletx.

Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author, and freelance writer.

Diabetic

Pediatric

Myopia

Dry

Cataract

LASIK

A May Matcha Cake

Celebrate spring with the perfect sweet treat.

BY ALIX NEWTON

IF MAY HAD a flavor, it would be Strawberry Matcha. Balancing earthy notes of matcha and sweet bright strawberries, this 4-inch mini centerpiece is the perfect way to celebrate spring.

Strawberry Matcha Cake

Serves: 6

Prep time: 20 minutes

Bake time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Matcha Cake

• 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar

• 10 tbsp (140 grams) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 eggs, at room temperature

• 1 tablespoon vanilla

• 2 ¼ cups (280 grams) plain flour

• 2 tbsp (8 grams) ceremonial grade, bright green, matcha powder

• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) buttermilk

Strawberry filling and buttercream

• 1 cup (150 grams) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 tablespoons strawberry jam

• 2 ½ cups (300 grams) powdered sugar

• 1 cup (25 grams) freeze-dried strawberries

• 1 tablespoon warm milk

• Fresh strawberries, to decorate

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 4-inch cake tins and line them with baking paper.

2. In a medium bowl, add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream together until fluffy and pale.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla and combine well, then fold in the flour, matcha powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Before all the flour is combined, pour in the buttermilk and mix that through until everything is evenly mixed.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake the cake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center

6. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then pull up on the parchment paper to release it from the pan. Let the cake continue cooling on the cooling rack until completely cooled.

To make the buttercream

1. Add the softened butter to a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on high speed until fluffy, 1 to 2 minutes.

2. Add the freeze-dried strawberries to a food processor. Pulse until finely ground, then

pass the ground freeze-dried strawberries through a sieve to remove the seeds.

3. Add in the powdered sugar and finely ground freeze-dried strawberries to the butter and mix until fluffy. Add milk to loosen if required. Move the mixture to a piping bag and snip a small hole from the end.

4. To decorate, place one of the cooled cake layers onto a serving board and pipe around the edge to create a border. Fill the center with strawberry jam, then top with the second cake layer.

5. Coat the cake with the remaining buttercream using an offset spatula, then finish with a few sliced strawberries.

6. Serve and enjoy. This cake will keep for 4 to 5 days if kept somewhere cool and dry, but it’s best eaten within 24 hours.

Alix Newton is a baking blogger and photographer who, along with her family, recently moved to Mueller from the United Kingdom. Sharing her tasty food creations is her way of giving back to the community that has welcomed her. Visit Alix online at mykitchensdrawer.com and follow her on social media @mykitchendrawer.

A Thriving ECOSYSTEM

Mueller is more than just our paved community.

Take a step inside the Southwest and Southeast Greenways to explore the beautiful landscape right on our doorstep.

BY CRISTINA TANGREDI

IIF YOU LIVE in Mueller, you will likely know Southwest and Southeast Greenways well. Maybe you walk your dog along them in the morning, stop to admire wildflowers in bloom, or pass through on your way to the skate park. But beneath that everyday beauty lies a deeper story shaped by restoration, intention, and a belief that urban life and thriving ecosystems can, and should, coexist. At the center of this vision is RVI Planning + Landscape Architecture, the landscape architect responsible for designing these spaces as both functional infrastructure and meaningful community places.

A LANDSCAPE RECLAIMED

The Southwest Greenway is one of four major parks surrounding the Mueller development and was once the site of the former Robert Mueller Municipal Airport. When redevelopment began, the land presented both a challenge and an opportunity.

Prior to redevelopment, much of the Southwest Greenway was a paved parking lot. Guided by a bold vision, the team set out to restore the native Blackland Prairie that once covered this region. This ecosystem plays a critical role in water infiltration and in filtering pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and sulfur dioxide. Once stretching

from Central Texas to Manitoba, less than 1% of the Blackland Prairie remains today, making its restoration here especially meaningful.

In a remarkable discovery during the redevelopment, soil samples revealed that healthy prairie soil still existed beneath the pavement of the former airport. These soils were carefully stockpiled during construction and reused to support restoration. Native species, including Little Bluestem, were reintroduced to strengthen the prairie’s ecological resilience.

RESTORING THE PRAIRIE

The Southwest Greenway plays a central role in managing stormwater for the community, but its design tells a much richer story.

At its heart is a pond designed by RVI Planning + Landscape Architecture to feel as though it has always been part of the landscape. Its edges are varied and naturalistic, shaped by mature trees, native boulders, cascading water features, and gently sloping planting shelves.

The pond’s form was carefully influenced by the preservation of an existing grove of mature pecan trees, reinforcing a sense of permanence and continuity. Today, it supports both wildlife and recreation, stocked with fish and frequented by catch-andrelease anglers, as well as Great Blue Herons. More than 200 native plant species now thrive throughout the greenway. Beyond their beauty, these grasses and plants contribute to carbon

sequestration, making the space not just a park, but a living climate solution.

In 2009, Mueller became the first project in Texas—and the largest in the United States at the time—to achieve LEED for Neighborhood Development certification. The Southwest Greenway played a significant role in that achievement.

AN URBAN WETLAND BY DESIGN

A decade later, the Southeast Greenway introduced a new evolution in design, centered around water.

At its core is an urban wetland pond that functions as both stormwater infrastructure and ecological habitat. Also designed by RVI, the pond features softly undulating edges that extend in layered, finger-like forms.

These shapes create shallow zones and varied habitats that mimic natural waterways.

This intentional design allows aquatic plants to thrive, improves water quality, and supports a diverse range of wildlife. What could have been a purely utilitarian basin instead becomes an immersive, sensory landscape.

Nearby, the energy of the skate park blends with quieter birding and wetland areas. Shade structures cast dynamic patterns that echo surrounding tree canopies, subtly connecting active and passive spaces. The result is a fluid experience—one that encourages exploration and movement between environments, reinforcing the idea that natural and built systems should feel interconnected.

A LASTING IMPACT

One of the most meaningful outcomes of the greenways is how it shaped the future of Mueller. The success of prairie restoration demonstrated that native landscapes are not only environmentally beneficial, but also viable at a community scale. As a result, landscape design guidelines were updated to require at least 50% of native plantings in new development, with the remainder drawn from welladapted species.

The greenway also serves as a living classroom. Demonstration gardens help residents learn how to incorporate native plants into their own yards, creating a ripple effect that extends sustainability beyond the park and into everyday life.

Together, Mueller’s greenways and public spaces form something rare: a cohesive system where infrastructure, ecology, recreation, and history are seamlessly intertwined. They demonstrate what’s possible when design goes beyond function—when it is guided by intention, shaped by context, and rooted in a vision for long-term sustainability. And perhaps most importantly, they offer a hopeful reminder: even in the heart of a growing city, nature can thrive and bring us along with it.

Cristina Tangredi is dedicated to creating community-first communications, and has over seven years of experience in nonprofits, government agencies and PR firms.

Neighbors in Harmony

BY CARMEN GRAY

TTHE MUELLER NEIGHBORHOOD is teeming with talented people, ranging from teachers and university professors to researchers, entrepreneurs, doctors, nurses, hairdressers, and artists. But we wouldn’t be in the heart of Austin, Texas, without musicians; that’s what our beloved city is known for best. It turns out my next-door neighbor is in a band that has played all throughout the city and beyond, including right here in Mueller for Rock the Park.

BEHIND DONNA

Brett Land, often seen with his guitar slung over his back, and Logan Daniel Garza are the dynamic duo behind Donna. The band is what they fondly describe as “an alt-countryrock lovechild.” These two singersongwriters engage audiences with rich harmonies, subtle Texas drawls, and the kind of musical moments that keep people smiling and humming along. Both on and off stage, they’re known for their easygoing energy. They may even get you “happy-crying into your Lone Star” if you listen closely enough. That warmth comes as no surprise: Land is the kind of neighbor

who greets everyone with a grin. To him, no one is a stranger.

When I asked how Donna came to be, Land explains, “We first created this musical project under a different moniker and with more members. It was called Flatland Holler, which started in 2017.”

The group found early success with their 2018 EP “Nothing to Lose,” but eventually reached a stalemate and disbanded. A tale as old as time. Still, the songwriting between Land and Garza never stopped. After many latenight deliberations, long voice memo demos, and a shared passion for good music and a good time, “Donna was

born like a phoenix out of a dive-bar ashtray,” Land says. Their debut LP, “Again, For the First Time,” was released in October of 2025.

Land and Garza first met in 2012, when Land moved to Austin. They quickly became friends and began writing songs together almost immediately. Today, both live in Mueller and enjoy being active members of the community, and all of their music is self-produced by Garza. Some of the songs on their most recent album were even recorded at Garza’s house. One of their first public performances as Donna was at a songwriter showcase hosted by Austin Songcore at the Alamo Drafthouse.

ON STAGE

Donna frequently plays house shows, performing as an acoustic duo in intimate settings where their songs shine in their purest form: just vocals, melody, and guitar. They’ve also toured the country, playing in living rooms, backyards, and listening-room venues like the 04 Center on South Lamar. As a full band, Donna brings a livelier energy to dance halls like Sagebrush and White Horse, where their catchy tunes keep dancers boot-scooting across the floor. Closer to home, they’ve played several shows at Lazarus Brewing, not far from Mueller.

The band has also ventured into new

creative territory, composing music for the Netflix stand-up comedy special “A Humble Offering” by their friend Matt McCusker. In addition to Rock the Park and other local venues, Donna has performed at Haute Spot and Coupland Dancehall.

Land cites a range of influences, from singer-songwriter staples like The Eagles and Tom Petty to altcountry and Southern indie rock bands such as Drive-By Truckers, Dawes, Whiskeytown, and Justin Townes Earle. The band’s name itself nods to the 1970s, a time of iconic “Dons” like Don Henley and Don Felder. Inspired by that era, and with a playful twist, they landed on

“Donna,” recalling the character Donna Pinciotti from “That ’70s Show.” The result is a name that feels both nostalgic and intriguingly unexpected for a twoman band.

You can listen to their music at donnatheband.com or follow them on Instagram (@donnatheband) to keep up with upcoming shows. And if you’re lucky, you might just catch them playing right here in the neighborhood.

Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author, and freelance writer.

PERSPECTIVES

The Difference

BY CYNTHIA A. ALEXANDER

do we love our children enough to let them relive the past but teach them of the future help them make their own lives do we love our children enough to show them what words really mean plant within their hearts to know that every minute counts play when it’s play time remembering we all have work to do do we teach them to open the door enough to find out what’s on the other side not to be afraid my child to question anyone, anything do we love our children enough to teach them of ground once plowed that planting was a seed that many died for a better way can we show our children the stress–filled faces of grandparents who loved us the wrinkles of face lines folding from frowns, from agony but also from savored joy and ran-flooded fields where our groceries grew can we tell them tell them we must endure endure for future generations remembering yesterdays songs, wars, marches protesters, cotton pickers silent readers todays and tomorrows dreams do we love our children enough to help them face the truth openly share with them the pains and joys and struggles we had the stripes on backs and whips and cries and voices in the night do we tell them this struggle is long and wide and deep tell them growing up is hard and fun and scary do we tell our children we can make a difference life is worth living we can make a difference

Co-writer in “Layers” by Plain View Press 1994

The POWER of PLAY

How Thinkery is shaping the future of learning.

INTERVIEW WITH BECCA DREW

IN THE HEART of Mueller, Thinkery is widely known as a place where families come to play. But behind the hands-on exhibits and joyful energy is a deeper purpose, one centered on how children learn, grow, and build confidence through experience.

We spoke with Becca Drew, Thinkery’s director of learning experience, about why play-based learning matters and how Thinkery is expanding its impact across Central Texas.

Most people see Thinkery as a fun place for kids to play, but there’s a bigger mission behind it. Can you tell us about that?

Play is how we learn and grow. At Thinkery, the goal is to create spaces where children feel safe enough to take risks, explore new ideas, and discover how the world works. The mission is to lead the future of play-based STEAM learning experiences that inspire all children to become confident, creative thinkers.

What may look like simple fun is often layered with meaningful learning.

A child pretending to make pizza, for example, is building language skills, practicing symbolic thinking, and even exploring early math concepts like fractions. When learning feels joyful, children are more willing to experiment without fear of being “wrong.” That sense of freedom is where deeper understanding begins, and where confidence takes root.

How does Thinkery reach Mueller area families beyond those who walk through your doors?

Extending beyond the museum walls is a critical part of the work. Through initiatives like EdExchange, Thinkery partners with educators and librarians across Central Texas to bring play-based STEAM learning into classrooms and community spaces.

These programs go beyond one-time workshops. The team works directly alongside educators, co-teaching and modeling hands-on approaches that can be integrated into everyday learning. Students might create stop-motion videos to explain scientific concepts or use storytelling to explore math in a new way. By equipping teachers with these tools, the impact multiplies, reaching far more children and helping foster a culture of curiosity, creativity, and exploration that continues long after a single visit.

Programs like Museums for All are so impactful. How do initiatives like this benefit the community?

Access is at the core of Thinkery’s mission. Programs like Museums for All help ensure that cost is not a barrier for families who want to engage in highquality, hands-on learning experiences.

Expanding access means more children can benefit from environments that nurture curiosity and confidence. These opportunities are especially important for families who may not otherwise have access to enrichment programs.

By creating a more inclusive space, Thinkery isn’t just serving individual families; it’s strengthening the broader community. When more children have the chance to explore, create, and imagine, the long-term impact is shared by everyone.

What are some of the challenges families face when trying to access experiences like this today?

Families today are navigating a complex and often overwhelming landscape. Many parents are balancing demanding careers, financial pressures, and caregiving responsibilities, all while facing a constant stream of advice about how to raise their children. A recent Surgeon General’s Advisory underscores the impact of parental stress on children, revealing that the emotional well-being of adults can significantly shape their kids’ development and happiness (U.S. Surgeon General, Advisory on the Mental Health & Well-Being of Parents).

That level of stress can take a toll not just on caregivers but on children as well. Thinkery aims to be a space where families can reconnect through play. Whether a parent is fully engaged alongside their child or simply taking a moment to pause, there’s reassurance in knowing their child is in a safe, enriching environment.

It’s also important to recognize that some families face deeper challenges, including adversity or instability. Research provided by Hope Healthy Outcomes at Tufts Medicine shows that positive childhood experiences can help buffer those impacts (Hope Healthy Outcomes, Tufts Medicine).

By creating welcoming, joyful spaces, Thinkery provides opportunities for children to build resilience, confidence, and a lasting love of learning.

Do you have a favorite story that really captures Thinkery’s impact?

One moment that stands out came from a family workshop in partnership with local community organizations. After the experience, a parent shared that it allowed them to “see the genius of their child.”

That reflection captures something powerful. When children are given the freedom to explore without pressure, their creativity and capabilities naturally emerge. Just as importantly, caregivers are able to witness that potential in real time—often in ways

they hadn’t seen before.

These moments are a reminder that fostering confident, creative thinkers begins with recognizing the strengths already present in every child.

For Mueller Magazine readers who feel inspired, what’s the best way to get involved or support Thinkery’s mission?

There are many ways to be part of the work. Membership is a meaningful starting point, helping families stay connected while directly supporting ongoing programs. Donations also play a critical role, funding initiatives that expand access to communities across Central Texas.

Families can engage by attending events, enrolling in camps or workshops, or simply sharing Thinkery with others. Every visit and conversation helps grow a community that values curiosity, creativity, and learning through play.

For those looking to make a deeper impact, volunteering or partnering with Thinkery offers a hands-on opportunity to help shape experiences for the next generation.

At its core, Thinkery’s work is about more than play; it’s about possibility. And by creating spaces where children feel empowered to explore, imagine, and discover, it’s helping build a future filled with confident, capable learners.

OP

SOARING INTO SUMMER

PRESTON (TY) TYREE captured this beautiful bird in flight above the water at Mueller Lake Park taken from across the street in front of the Parkside Condos.

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