Cedar Park, TX April 2024

Invest smartly, live abundantly!

Investment. When this word comes to mind, your thoughts may automatically go to finances. But the fact of the matter is, true wealth encompasses far more than just allocating resources and obtaining monetary riches.

I remember when we were first informed by City Lifestyle that the April issue’s theme would be changing from Explore to Investment. Editors from across the country were sitting together in a hotel rooftop room during our national conference in Kansas City. The announcement was made via a slide on the big screen and reactions were… curious. Because what direction were we supposed to take this if not with our good ol’ friend the stock market?

But once everyone’s gears started turning, the brainstorming session was incredibly worthwhile. There were talks about everything from investing in local mentorship to investing in quality time with family to investing in more sustainable brands. It certainly opened my eyes to just how far the theme could go. After all, to invest is to be committed to progress.

While that isn’t to say you won’t learn more about finances in this issue—shoutout to Daybreak Tax’s Steve Nay and Jeff Brecht with Osaic Wealth—you can expect to see many other ways to be “profitable.” You could receive the help of Good Guys Tree Service's Certified Arborists to ensure that your home’s trees are healthy yearround. Maybe you have a dog (or a few!) that could benefit from a membership for premium bath and grooming experiences at Petbar. And then, of course, there are your personal goals for physical improvements, social growth, and becoming the best dang barbecuer around. Plus, with ample non-profits in Central Texas to share your support with, there is always a good cause to donate to.

In an ever-growing city like Cedar Park, there are limitless opportunities to cultivate a well-rounded life through your investments. So, alongside all of the wonderful folks that we have had the pleasure of speaking to this month, we are celebrating the ability to plant seeds today and reap the rewards tomorrow.

May you be inspired to invest boldly this April and beyond. Welcome to our new Investment Issue, where you will discover how to create a brighter, more fulfilling lifestyle!

April 2024

Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com

Greg Dugdale | greg.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR @CEDARPARK_CITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Jazzercise ATX’s 6:30 PM class throws baby shower for member Anna Holzbauer in studio. 2: Leadership Cedar Park holds Education Day to hear from partners at LISD and LEEF. 3: Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge becomes official affiliate of First Tee of Greater Austin. 4: The Small Group from Hill Country Bible Church spends Serve Day with Christian Resource Center. 5: Visitors of The Spinning Wheel ATX take selfie together during group creative workshop. 6: Jimmy Yen of Achieve Integrative Health speaks on how relationships build businesses at Chamber luncheon. 7: FOX 7 Austin visits food trucks at The Crossover with Chef Javi Maggiolo.

CEDAR PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CEDAR PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ED AMADIS

CHRISTIAN RESOURCE CENTER

JAZZERCISE ATX

THE SPINNING WHEEL ATX

JORDAN CORONADO

8: The Fieldhouse hosts Fat Saturday Mardi Gras Celebration with NOLA-inspired bar and entertainment. 9: Cedar Park Family Dance: Best Friends Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage host annual Girl Scouts Cookie Buy-Out with 19 local troops.

results for people who are focused on achieving healthier, active lifestyles. No matter your fitness level, you can take on a customized program with an encouraging team that holds you accountable. At their new Cedar Park location, the Alloy trainers are ready to help you break down barriers and get on the right path. Learn more about how your life and body can benefit online. alloypersonaltraining.com

Photography Alloy Personal Training

Jazzercise ATX hosts grand opening at Homestead Shopping Center address

On March 2nd, Jazzercise ATX welcomed a new era by officially moving to 14010 N US-183, Suite 500. The team was excited to hold party classes with the public, complete with refreshments from Juiceland. They look forward to continuing to share their blend of dance cardio and strength training with Cedar Park residents and beyond. For those looking for physical results or stress relief, visit Jazzercise ATX at their latest and greatest home! jazzercise.com

Photography Jazzercise ATX

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN & AUSTIN ZOO

Wild Guardians of the

SUPPORT AUSTIN ZOO’S LONGTIME MISSION TO ASSIST ANIMALS IN NEED THROUGH RESCUE, CONSERVATION, AND EDUCATION

Zulema the white tiger arrived at Austin Zoo following a DEA raid, where she was discovered in a small, tarp-covered cage. Sister African lions Aesa and Gaia found their forever home in Central Texas after Hurricane Harvey rocked The Texas Zoo in Victoria. A coati named Stitch was located in an exotic pet shop by a concerned citizen who wanted a guarantee of her safety.

From Galapagos tortoises to capybaras to a Berkshire pig dubbed Albert Einswine, Austin Zoo cares for over 300 rescued animals. Unique compared to sanctuaries, this zoo lets the public come in to learn about these wonderful rehomed and senior creatures. Their team makes meaningful use of their 15 occupied acres.

“We don’t have any reservations about spending money on our animals to make them healthy. If we have any animal that needs some kind of procedure or medication, we go to the ends of the earth to do that for them,” says guest relations manager Toni Alberty. “Typically, if we have the room, we’ll take an animal so that they can have a happy life with us. But even if we don’t have the room, we will aggressively work to find them a home.”

The dedicated folks behind Austin Zoo are deeply invested in the animals in their collection. With an exotic zoological vet who visits each week like clockwork, they stay well informed about every creature’s needs and progress.

One incredible story comes from Texas longhorn Dante, a zoo resident who was diagnosed with a skull fracture at the base of his horn. In collaboration with Texas A&M, a never-before-seen procedure was undergone to support his horn without

the need for amputation. Having since fully recovered, Dante exemplifies how critical innovation and education are when it comes to our planet’s animals.

“We have a great, robust education department that designs specific programs for kids. There are Saturday camps, summer camps, family experiences… If a school wants to experience an outreach program, our educators will do that for them, as well,” says Alberty. “We want people to embrace our animals. The more they become connected, the more they are going to love them.”

You may find that your heart connects with one animal, in particular. That’s why Austin Zoo offers the opportunity to sponsor habitats for the year, whether it be for their cheetahs, emus, or prairie dogs. Heavily dependent on sponsorships and private donations, this non-profit zoo is reliant on people just like you to participate in conservation efforts.

“What I want to do through my work here is to instill in people an appreciation for the animal they are looking at—to tell them the story of the animal, to make it personal. These are amazing creatures that are now critically endangered,” says Alberty. “We are the only ones who are going to be able to save them.”

Make a difference at Austin Zoo! Buy tickets to visit, become a member or sponsor, and donate online at austinzoo.org

Tax Planning Made Easy

After graduating with a computer science degree, Steve Nay pursued a career in technology. He has worked in software development and cybersecurity at small and large companies alike. Come 2022, he felt motivated to support professionals like himself in reaching their unique goals, specifically through taxes.

Nay has always enjoyed the puzzle aspect of taxes. Upon learning what it would take to transform that interest into a business, he took the IRS Enrolled Agent exam. As a federally authorized tax specialist, he now assists businesses, individuals, and families through Daybreak Tax.

“Taxes are a key piece of your financial situation. To get everything to work together, we optimize while keeping in mind the big picture,” says Nay. “Tax law is this complicated system that’s changing all the time, but we’ll figure out how to fit your pieces into that system.”

A firm believer in financial education, Nay co-hosts a podcast with financial coach Tyler Smith called It’s Not About The Money. Primarily about solopreneurship, the podcast offers evergreen resources for anything from launching a side hustle with minimal capital to explaining how tax brackets work.

“Folks who get into this business do it because we want to help people understand their finances better and have the peace of mind that things are done right,” says Nay. “I’ll hold your hand through this process. Lots of people have walked this road before and it’s going to be fun.”

File on time, maximize your deductions, and gain expert guidance. Visit daybreaktax.com today!

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CHAMBERS

JOIN FORCES WITH DAYBREAK TAX’S STRATEGIC TAX ADVISER STEVE NAY

BY MEGAN MARSHALL

THE SAVING GRACE OF MUSIC

HEAR HOW THE MUSICIANS WOODSHED NORTH PARMER STUDENT NICK STOLTE HAS BLOSSOMED SINCE INVESTING IN LESSONS

Ten years ago, during a difficult time in his life, Nick Stolte picked up his brother’s old Ibanez guitar that had been collecting dust. While he always had a good ear and a love for ‘70s music, it was at this point when it clicked that he was meant to be behind an instrument. Soon, The Musicians Woodshed came into the picture.

“I scheduled Nick for his first lesson and paired him up with his first teacher, Ryan Holley,” says The Musicians Woodshed Director Gina Bretzke. “From starting with guitar to now being in the recording

Get ready for Nick Stolte’s first original song, “The Veil,” coming out on April 26th! Keep up with his musical journey at nickstoltemusic.com and themusicianswoodshed.com.

Nick Stolte

studio, he’s definitely come out confidence-wise. Music has given him his purpose and he’s become a great ambassador for The Woodshed.”

Despite his struggle with anxiety, Nick has performed at showcases and open mics throughout Central Texas. That includes an especially memorable time playing at a festival in McDade, where his grandma lived.

“We’ve seen his growth musically through his hard work. More notably, I’m seeing a lot of emotional and social growth from him,” says drum instructor Travis Woodard. “For Nick to be doing the adult garage band project is fantastic. He was the catalyst in us doing an adult show because he was the one asking about it and lit the fire to add that to the program.”

Someday, Nick hopes to join a band of his own. Until then, he looks forward to continuing to refine his instrumental and songwriting skills through lessons at The Musicians Woodshed.

“The people here are very supportive and push you to do your best,” says Nick. “The whole musical journey, with the addition of therapy, has helped me get past my social anxiety and pressures. I’ve learned to get out in public, be myself, and not worry about anything else.”

Private Music Lesson for all ages

Offering a variety of instruments, programs, and more.

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LEARN MORE: SUMMER CAMPS

CHART YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN

Make progress on your financial timeline with Osaic Wealth Financial Advisor Jeff

Brecht

Financial planning transcends numbers. It’s about empowering individuals to craft lives tailored to their aspirations and circumstances. For Jeff Brecht, who has served as a financial advisor for over two decades, the key is to meet clients where they are at, without any judgment.

“Everyone in life has a different starting point financially. Some are born into wealth, most are not, and the rest are somewhere in between. We all walk different paths, making each financial timeline unique,” says Brecht. “This financial starting point is why my job is often more art than science. What makes a fulfilling life for one person can be entirely different for someone else.”

A financial review can be a rewarding exercise to help you validate if you are on track to meet your personal goals. Alongside Brecht, you will formulate an effective plan based on what is and isn’t working, and what changes in investing and or lifestyle are necessary.

You may cover topics like whether you have a current will, are carrying enough life insurance, or made more money last year than the year prior. Brecht will even work with you to understand how major life events, such as moving, changing jobs, or growing your family, factor into your financial timeline. You come out better equipped to navigate your future.

“Life comes at you fast, and we all know markets go up and down. The earlier you can start, the more time you’ll have to build the life you want while handling the things life throws at you,” says Brecht. “A solid strategy to use when starting early is working with an advisor who can help you diversify your portfolio to take advantage of these ups and downs, and take some of the emotion out of the market’s roller coaster.”

Get answers: osaic.com

Paw-sitively Fetching

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW CHAMBERS

With four dogs and two daughters studying to be vets, it’s no secret that the Dewans are an animal family. That’s a big part of why Garrett and Aisling Dewan were drawn to the unique concept of Petbar—a full-service and self-service pet wash and boutique. When the husband and wife duo were considering starting a business, this franchise felt like the perfect fit.

Since beginning their Petbar Cedar Park journey, the Dewans have acquired a staff that loves animals just as much as they do. Their groomers have trained in various locations and schools, and their bathers consist of kennel techs who have veterinary office experience.

“They understand animal behavior and watch for signs of discomfort,

GIVE YOUR DOG A PREMIUM PAMPERING SESSION AT PETBAR CEDAR PARK

“PETS ARE LIKE CHILDREN TO MANY PEOPLE. IT’S EXCITING FOR THEM TO SEE THEIR PUP COME OUT NICE AND CLEAN WITH A LITTLE BANDANA ON.”

fear, or anxiety. We want people who know how to react with compassion and adjust to the needs of the animal,” says Garrett. “If you watch our Instagram videos, you will see how caring and gentle the groomers are with the dogs. We try to demonstrate the full grooming process from the bath to the cut.”

Thanks to Petbar’s membership, it’s easy to keep your dogs looking, smelling, and feeling their best. With the convenience of four washes per month, you can regularly rid your pup of allergens from the yard and eliminate the pain of matting.

“It’s amazing to see people’s faces when their dog comes running out from either the groomer or the bath. I have seen so many times where the dogs are virtually unrecognizable from when they came in,” says Garrett. “In fact, one time I remember the owner walked right past his dog—it was such a transformation.”

Petbar Cedar Park is committed to being a game changer for any dog owner, whether faced with a Chihuahua or a Great Pyrenees. On top of that, Garrett and Aisling devote time to giving back to the community that has so warmly welcomed them.

“We have supported school sports, FFA funding, Ladder for Leaders, Austin women’s groups, and much more. We try where we can and where it makes sense to help with events for other local organizations in the area,” says Garrett. “I feel it’s important we all try to help each other to be successful.”

To meet your dog’s new best friend at Petbar Cedar Park, first visit petbarinc.com/locations/austincedar-park. Then, head to 406 W Whitestone Ln Building 2, Suite 204!

Live Long, Live Well, Live Younger

EXPERIENCE YOUTHING, NOT AGING THROUGH ACTIVATING YOUR STEM CELLS

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL & JANET KIEFFER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN MARSHALL

We live in an era where wellness is increasingly valued. Still, we may find ourselves lacking energy during the day and not sleeping through the night. This is largely due to our stem cells, also known as the master cells that repair every part of our bodies, declining as we age. In fact, by age 50, we have less than 30% active stem cells.

A wellness advocate and representative of Youthing, Not Aging, Janet Kieffer recognizes that drugs, injections, and surgeries aren’t always the answer. Through Youthing, she offers a breakthrough phototherapy technology that safely activates our stem cells. The goal? To reverse aging and rejuvenate the body.

“There are 135 million people over age 50 in America. 135 million of us who may live into our 90s,” says Kieffer. “We want to be active, feel good, look good, and enjoy living to the fullest. Yet, six out of 10 of us are in pain.”

It may be that you struggle with arthritis or you have undergone a knee replacement procedure. Perhaps you are even experiencing a reduction in estrogen, which is speeding up your bone loss. With Youthing’s patented and FDA-registered patch, you can maximize your body’s potential in the face of a wide range of health conditions.

“As a nurse, I see people in pain daily,” says Youthing member Janet H. “As a former Air Force Captain, I too was in pain—for 30 years—from damage sustained in Desert Storm. Within days of using this technology, I had the first deep sleep I’d had in years. Over the next months, the chronic pain in my legs and feet stopped. It’s such a blessing!”

There is no time like the present to invest in a more youthful you. Visit youthingnotaging.com and subscribe to youtube.com/@youthingpro for more information.

5 BENEFITS OF STEM CELL ACTIVATION:

Arbor Advocates

LEARN FROM OPERATIONS MANAGER CASEY HUMMELL HOW GOOD GUYS TREE SERVICE KEEPS YOUR TREES THRIVING

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOOD GUYS TREE SERVICE

Deep Root Fertilization Insight: “You need healthy roots! They want oxygen, moisture, and nutrients. We use a high-pressure applicator gun that breaks up the soil to help with root growth. We also have a hormone in the solution that stimulates root growth. It’s important when we hit high summer temperatures.”

Casey Hummell is a Good Guy through and through. In fact, the only tree care company he has ever worked with is Good Guys Tree Service. Over the years, he has loved seeing it grow and ensuring that their team lives up to its name.

To show just how much they prioritize credibility and reliability when it comes to their services, Good Guys is made up of Certified Arborists, per the International Society of Arboriculture. The crew has earned this designation through industry experience and degrees, a comprehensive exam, and continuing education activities every three years.

“This industry is relatively new in its creation as far as studying and figuring out what’s going on. Back in the day, if you had a tree problem, you asked your neighbor,” says Hummell. “But things have changed a lot. I’ve been in the industry for about 12 years and I’ve already seen several things that were once standard practice that now you don’t do because of the latest research.”

With drought on our state’s shoulders, it’s historically been a necessity for Texas arborists to know ways to help trees retain moisture. However, Hummell recalls the winter storm of 2021 causing never-before-seen tree health issues, spurring greater education on acclimation and compartmentalization of local tree types.

Beyond that, Good Guys stays knowledgeable about problems like over-pruning, under-watering, and getting through oak wilt season which going on now until July 1st.

“We work on the health of the tree, hopefully giving it enough energy and resources where it can use its own internal defenses to seal any open wounds,” says Hummell. “Mother Nature is really good and I try not to go against her, but sometimes she needs a little help.”

Keep your trees robust with Good Guys Tree Service! Learn more at: goodguystreeservice.com

Fresh from Texas

Become the best griller on the block in no time with Trey Garza, General Manager of Goodstock by Nolan Ryan Butcher Shop

ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN SLUSHER & GOODSTOCK

Stepping into Goodstock by Nolan Ryan, you’re enveloped in a sense of community and hospitality deeply rooted in small-town Texas. This atmosphere’s origins trace to Nolan Ryan’s youth, learning the tricks of the trade from the butcher shops in Alvin.

Today, Goodstock’s General Manager Trey Garza is at the helm, bringing his decade of experience to the rich tradition of generations of Texas cattle ranchers and butchers. When off the clock, Trey enjoys the selection of local meats from the comfort of his home.

“Texas is a grilling state, but springtime is when I like to break out the smoker. Briskets, tri-tips, chicken wings, and sausages are my go-to,” says Trey.

“For those who can’t wait to fill the grill, our ‘No-Fuss’ brisket patties, all-natural chicken breasts, and beautifully marbled ribeye and tenderloins are perfect any day.”

When gearing up for your next backyard barbecue, Trey’s best advice is to keep it simple and flavorful. With a variety of rubs, spices, and sauces from local legends and chef-driven brands, Goodstock has it all to

complement your cuts. For Trey, their signature salt, pepper, garlic ‘No-Fuss’ Rub is where it’s at!

“We celebrate Texas’s diverse culture with meats and cuts inspired by Tex-Mex, Southern, and cowboy cuisine,” says Trey. “By showing off the best of Texas in cuts, products, and brands, we work hard to connect our customers with the authentic flavors and heritage of this great state.”

Master your cook with Goodstock products at 3800 E Palm Valley Blvd Suite 110, Round Rock or goodstocktx.com.

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 6TH

Austin Country, Folk, & Blues Festival at The Fieldhouse

1717 Scottsdale Dr Suite 160, Cedar Park - Leander | 10:30 AM

Get ready for 10 hours of CMA, Grammy Award, and Billboard #1 performers live on stage. When you visit The Fieldhouse at The Crossover for the Austin Country, Folk, & Blues Festival, you are sure to find yourself dancing and singing along. Plus, there will be artists and crafters, a farmers' market, and fun contests galore. Buy tickets now! austincountryfestival.com

APRIL 8TH - 14TH

Masters Week at Pin Seeker's Golf Lounge

6001 W Parmer Ln #230, Austin, TX 78727

Bring your A-game during a week full of games and special drinks at Pin Seeker's Golf Lounge! Hosting his very own Masters Tournament at Augusta, owner Ed Amadis looks forward to seeing golf lovers from all generations come together to celebrate this major golf championship. The Pin Seeker's winner will receive a trophy and a coveted Green Jacket.  pinseekersgolflounge.com

APRIL 14TH

Band of the Hills' Spring Concert at Lakeline Park

1510 Alexis Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613

4:00 PM

Break out your lawn chairs and blankets! Band of the Hills is bringing an afternoon of great music to the Lakeline Park Grand Pavilion with a free, family-friendly concert. A varied group ranging in age from mid-

dle school to in their eighties, this non-profit community band has been performing in and around Cedar Park for 26 years. bandofthehills.org

APRIL 20TH

City of Lago Vista's Lago Fest at Bar-K Park

6608 Bar-K Clubhouse Ct, Lago Vista, TX 78645 | 1:00 PM

Boats, beats, arts, and eats... That's what you can expect at Lago Fest! Come support local vendors while your children enjoy the Kiddie Zone with train rides, a petting zoo, and plenty of games. There's fun for everyone! Plus, with performances by Audic Empire, LC Rocks, Dysfunkshun Junkshun, and Alex Hensley, you are sure to stay moving and grooving. lagofest.com

APRIL 27TH

Leander High School's AFJROTC's 4th Annual Car Show

3301 S Bagdad Rd, Leander, TX 78641 | 9:00 AM

If you are looking for some family-friendly fun for all, stop by LHS to support AFJROTC TX-20007! Along with cadet demonstrations and veteran recognition, you will get the chance to show off or see unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles. All of the proceeds will go toward funding educational trips, leadership programs, uniforms, and more throughout the school year. lhsafjrotc.org

APRIL 28TH

We Them One's Comedy Tour at the H-E-B Center

2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 7:00 PM

Comedy enthusiasts, now is your time! BMN Entertainment is bringing We Them One's Comedy Tour's unmissable lineup of comedic maestros to Cedar Park. Headliners include host Mike Epps with DeRay Davis, Lil Duval,  Wild 'N Out's DC Young Fly and Chico Bean, and rising star Mojo Brookzz. Grab tickets with your friends and prepare for side-splitting humor. hebcenter.com

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream