🌵 Power shift: How solar is saving Eanes schools $700K a year

I went to Dallas last week, and gosh, Austin is just so much better.
Don’t get me wrong, I’ve got plenty of people I love in Dallas (and from Dallas). But the vibe up there just isn’t for me. I’ll take Austin’s funky, low-key, easy-going chaos over shiny perfection any day.

On a different note, it’s my birthday this week, and I’m officially at the age where all I want are good socks, a date night with my wife, and some kid art (the kind that’s only cool because your own kids made it).

Here’s to another trip around the sun, still in Austin, still surrounded by good people, and still grateful to live in the weird, wonderful, laid-back heart of Texas.

Cheers,
Nolan

Marye’s Gourmet Pizza takes classic comfort and gives it a thoughtful, local twist. Nearly everything here is made from scratch, with organic and locally sourced ingredients that make each bite stand out.

The crust is crisp, the cheese rich and flavorful, and the service as warm as the ovens. Whether you’re a Margherita purist or chasing that perfect Chicago-style thin crust, this spot delivers pure pizza joy.

More details here.

TOPS Pest Control is the local crew keeping Hill Country homes bug-free, with no contracts and no stress.

🐶 Safe for pets, proven to work
🐜 Covers ants, roaches, scorpions and more
✅ No-Nonsense Guarantee: not happy, they'll fix it or pay someone who will

👉 Call Jenna & Kyle to book: (737) 338-7540 or check them out HERE.

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

Beehive in Westlake brings cheerful '60s-inspired style to Austin with bold prints, bright colors, and an easygoing vibe. The boutique is full of well-priced pieces that balance fun and sophistication, plus accessories to complete any look.

Shoppers love the friendly staff, great variety, and clothes that actually suit Texas weather. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, Beehive makes every outfit feel a little sunnier.

More details here.

The Gist: Eanes ISD has rolled out a districtwide solar energy program projected to save about $700,000 annually, easing part of its $3.3 million budget shortfall. Funded through the 2023 bond and supported by $3.5 million in Austin Energy rebates and $2.5 million in federal incentives, the project installed solar arrays on eight campuses. The effort earned an Urban Land Institute Austin Impact Award for its innovation and sustainability.

Why It Matters: The program cuts costs while advancing clean energy and reinvesting savings into local schools. A bright example of smart solutions shining across Eanes ISD.

Read more here.

Cool mornings, warm afternoons, and a forecast that can’t make up its mind. It’s November in Central Texas. 🌤️

This week’s post dives into the perks of the season: late blooms from plumbago, lantana, and Mexican bush sage, plus the secret magic of fall root growth (plants are busier underground than you think). And if you’ve been crunching mystery brown balls under your oaks, meet the harmless wasps behind those quirky oak galls. Nature’s full of surprises right now.

Check it out HERE.

🪴 Brought to you by Top Choice Lawn Care

🎵 Music and Movement | Lakeway Library | Lakeway | 11/07 | More
Sing, dance, and play with little ones in this joyful music session.

🎮 Arcade @ Laura’s | Laura’s Library | Austin | 11/08 | More
Friendly gaming fun with Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros, and more.

🧺 Bee Cave Farmers Market | Hill Country Galleria | Bee Cave | 11/09 | More
Fresh finds, local flavors, and Sunday sunshine for the whole family.

🦃 Thanksgiving Cookie Decorating Class | 620 Dance Center | Lakeway | 11/09 | More
Learn piping, texture, and design while creating six festive cookies (ages 13+)

🎨 Crafts for Teens: Pet Portraits | Westbank Library | Austin | 11/10 | More
Create custom pet portraits in this fun, laid-back teen art session.

🎖 Veterans Day Ceremony | Lakeway Activity Center | Lakeway | 11/11 | More
A heartfelt community tribute honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans.

🔮 Sound Bath Meditation | Westbank Library | Austin | 11/07 | More
Immerse in soothing tones for deep relaxation and mental renewal.

🤠 Honky Tonk Fest | Jester King Brewery | Austin | 11/08 | More
Hill Country two-stepping, live tunes, and Texas flair under the stars.

🐐 GOGA Goat Yoga | Hill Country Galleria | Bee Cave | 11/08 | More
Stretch, laugh, and unwind with playful baby goats by your side.

🎸 ThemThatKnow | Jester King Brewery | Austin | 11/09 | More
Laid-back Sunday grooves with craft beer and Hill Country charm.

🃏 Lakeway Card Show Trade Night | Hops & Thyme | Lakeway | 11/11 | More
Trade, buy, and connect over cards, burgers, and craft beer fun.

🤝 Build Your Business Network | The League Kitchen & Tavern | Bee Cave | 11/12 | More
Connect, collaborate, and grow with local professionals over casual conversation.

🥂 Sip n Shop 2025 | Bombshell Beauty Co. | Lakeway | 11/13 | More
Shop local finds, sip drinks, and kick off holiday cheer in style.

🍷 Austin Food & Wine Festival 2025 | Auditorium Shores | Austin | 11/07–11/09 | More
Taste, sip, and celebrate culinary excellence with top chefs and Texas flavors.

🔥 Austin Chicken Wing Festival 2025 | Travis County Exposition Center | Austin | 11/08 | More
All-you-can-eat wings, bold flavors, and fiery competition for Austin’s best bite.

🎨 12th Annual Little EAST | Blackshear Elementary | Austin | 11/08 | More
Student art, performances, and creativity shine at this free family festival.

🌙 Billie Eilish | Moody Center ATX | Austin | 11/13 | More
Atmospheric pop, haunting vocals, and an unforgettable live experience await.

We're not serving memes this time.. but I'm sure you'll enjoy this thread of cool maps you've probably never seen before!