ARTS + CULTURE
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN WONDERSPACES AUSTIN
Practice of Dr. Akash "Doc Ak" Pandya
Y o u r S p e c i a l i s t i n
C r e a t i n g B e a u t i f u l S m i l e s
U s i n g B r a c e s a n d C l e a r A l i g n e r T h e r a p y
I have an inside joke with my family about the word “experience.” It’s something that my aunt and I especially get a kick out of. These days, we refer to just about any outing or activity as an experience. Even if we face challenges or pitfalls along the way, we simply shrug and declare that it was— say it with me now—an experience.
More than just a lighthearted joke, this line of thinking has certainly shaped my perspective on life. I’ve learned to appreciate the richness of each moment we’re granted on this planet, finding beauty in both the extraordinary and the mundane. Nurturing a sense of curiosity and wonder within ourselves well into adulthood is, I believe, the key to our happiness. After all, there’s an abundance of experiences waiting to be had.
In my photo for this Lifestyle Letter, you’ll see me with a mammoth mural, courtesy of the Waco Mammoth National Monument. When I visited this paleontological site in May, I was amazed for two reasons—the first being the thought of how many discoveries our society has made through the ages, and the second being how many mysteries have yet to be unveiled. While our personal adventures may not always lead to something as groundbreaking as the unearthing of prehistoric creatures, they are no less valuable.
Every passing day presents an opportunity to explore in one form or another. Every decision, every step taken into the unknown, every experience contributes to who we are and where we’re going.
With this in mind, I encourage you to reflect… When was the last time you wholeheartedly embraced a journey? How do you intend to seize the summer? What does the concept of “exploration” mean to you?
Exploration can manifest in various forms outside of just traveling. You can explore through art, literature, and culinary creations. You can even explore ways to get more active at Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge or take better care of your body with CryoFit Cedar Park. Regardless of your interpretation, we hope that our Explore Issue will give you something to really think about so that you can unlock the happiness that experiences bring.
Join us in crafting memorable moments throughout the month of July! Let’s make the most out of this summer in Cedar Park and beyond.
MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR
PUBLISHER
Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Greg Dugdale | greg.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Myke Toman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stephanie Robertson, Spiritless, Pauli Reep
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at
Proverbs 3:5-6
1: Jazzercise ATX honors the women in their lives and our community during Mother’s Day class. 2: Cedar Park officials hold groundbreaking ceremony for the new Bell District’s Bell Park. 3: Leander High School’s Coach Aubrey Lindberg-Buchhorn and Jaya Coats hug at LEEF’s 2024 STAR Banquet. 4: Jenny and Gary Rust celebrate Any Baby Can’s 45th anniversary at One Stellar Night event. 5: Cedar Park Public Library hosts annual Mini-Con with vendors, presenters, and activities, featuring the Ghostbusters. 6: The Texas National Guard Child & Youth Program visits Candlelight Ranch for weekend campout. 7: Kinder Bridge Class at First Foundations Preschool celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week.
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to read more Cedar Park Vision now offers Forma-I and Lumecca-I treatments
Cedar Park Vision’s professionals strive to consistently improve upon their techniques by keeping up with the latest innovations in eye care technology. This technology includes Lumecca-I and Forma-I, addressing meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye disease. Lumecca-I’s precision intense pulsed light treatment helps manage inflammation and pigment in the periorbital area, while Forma-I uses effective bi-polar radio frequency heat to improve blood circulation around the eyes. Say goodbye to dryness and hello to clarity! cedarparkvision.com
On May 25th, Texas Farmers’ Market became the first destination in The Bell District, Cedar Park’s new mixed-use development. It continues to offer fresh food and live music weekly, and kids programming on the first Saturdays of every month. Executive Director Laura McDonald is excited to give vendors and shoppers alike an improved market experience in a more centralized location. Show your support, and get ready for more dining, retail, and recreation to come! texasfarmersmarket.org
by Texas Farmers’ Market
Founded by parents (aka Jennifer and Stephen Nilan) for parents, Think Lounge enables you to focus on work while your kids play. Not only will you find drop-in dedicated desks with monitors and keyboards, but also enriching, age-appropriate activities in their childwatch. With affordable pricing and no monthly commitments, it’s perfectly designed to fit into a busy parent’s budget and schedule. Your access pass even earns you bottomless drip coffee from the on-site cafe! mythinklounge.com
Join us for Happy Hour with half-price cocktails and 50 bottles of wine at 50% off from 4:30-6pm and live entertainment nightly, celebrate your special occasion in style with our Private and Group dining spaces, and dine on the delectable wonders of everything under the sea including our iconic Stone Crab claws. Our team will ensure your culinary adventure is unforgettable. YOUR TABLE IS WAITING.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN AND INTERACT WITH AN EVOLVING
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
Imagine stepping into a realm where waves of light and color envelop you. Depending on your path, you can either watch a robot artist drawing human portraits or listen to a musical performance orchestrated by antique sewing machines. This is the essence of Wonderspaces Austin, offering an array of installations for individuals of all ages and artistic backgrounds to enjoy.
“Wonderspaces started after a trip to a museum with a friend about seven years ago. It made me wonder what an art show would look like if its purpose was to be a place for friends and families to spend quality time together while also serving artists,” says Wonderspaces President Jason Shin.
Originating as pop-up art shows in San Diego, Wonderspaces has blossomed into permanent fixtures in Scottsdale, Philadelphia, and Austin. The exhibition curation process revolves around presenting accessible art across various mediums to captivate diverse audiences.
“All of our partner artists are paid, credited, and promoted—always,” says Shin. “Artists have control over where their work goes and whether they want to continue our partnership. Most of our initial partnerships from 2017 continue on today, and some have grown from one artwork to dozens.”
Today, Wonderspaces partners with over one hundred artists worldwide.
From 3D-printed sculptures that animate under strobe lights to miles of multicolor nylon string, these artists deliver a unique spectrum of experiences.
“Wonderspaces is a place where people can enjoy extraordinary art with the people they care about,” says Shin. “If they come away from their experience with a new appreciation for art and artists, that’d be great, but it’s enough if they come away with a fun date night or a memorable afternoon with family.”
Elevate your next outing with Wonderspaces Austin at 1205 Sheldon Cove Suite 2A, Austin! Visit austin.wonderspaces.com to book tickets.
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE ROBERTSON
INSPIRE CURIOSITY AND MOTIVATE YOUNG THINKERS WITH PAPER BARK BIRCH
My Incredible India is a tribute to one of the oldest civilizations. From landscape and food, to art, architecture, and wildlife, it’s a delightful taste of the wonders India has to offer.
Charles Darwin’s Around-the-World Adventure takes us with Naturalist Charles Darwin on his epic trip on the HMS Beagle, as he asks questions and shapes theories that will change the future of science.
Everyone says to teach them young! BabyLit allows you to create a library that builds familiarity with classic stories made into adorable children’s learning primers, like Around the World in 80 Days.
When every day offers something new, find it in your own backyard! A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Birds encourages children to use their senses while they observe and learn about American birds.
Follow a fictional family through 100 years of life, politics, and family dynamics in The Apartment: A Century of Russian History. Watch heirlooms (seekand-find style!) be handed down while absorbing 20th-century Russian culture.
paperbarkbirch.com
Ed Amadis is a husband, father, former Marine, dedicated educator, and now the proud owner of Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge.
From serving our country to serving up family fun, his path has been ultimately carved out by his passions.
As a first-generation American, Amadis had a profound sense of honor that propelled him into the military. Despite initially signing a six-year contract, his career extended over two decades, spanning countries like Argentina, Brazil, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
“At the seven-year mark, I got picked to become a drill instructor and was stationed at Parris Island. I was working 120 to 140 hours per week, sometimes 24 hours a day,” says Amadis. “It was a great experience, getting to mold these young men from all over America in three months into a well-oiled machine. By the end, they don’t want to leave.”
Enjoy the unique experience of golf simulators at veteran-owned Pin Seeker’s Golf Lounge
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
Even after retiring from the military, in his next chapter of life, Amadis set out to shape the next generation of leaders. Upon moving to Texas, he established a highly successful ROTC program at Henderickson High School in Pflugerville.
One thing he hammered home to his students was the question of whether they sit around counting days or make the days count. Amadis took that line to heart in October 2022, after envisioning a spot where groups could rent one-of-a-kind golf bays.
“Growing up, I was very athletic, but I wasn’t really exposed to golf. I played football, wrestled, and of course, being Dominican, I had to play baseball,” says Amadis. “When I was a drill instructor, though, a buddy asked me to go play on a course on the military base. I realized just how the challenging sport is and got addicted to it.”
Amadis has put a special twist on the beloved game through simulators at Pin Seeker’s. That said, even with 100,000 virtual golf courses, his business is more than a golf lounge with its multi-sport unit, skills challenges, and karaoke. Beyond that, it’s a community hub where you can come grab a bite to eat or get work done between rounds of classic yard games like cornhole.
“I’m here all the time, interacting with people and greeting them by name. I want it to be a laid-back, friendly, unintimidating place where anyone feels welcome,” says Amadis. “The most important thing is the customers and making sure they are taken care of.”
Swing by Pin Seeker’s at 6001 W Parmer Ln, Suite 230, Austin, and explore upcoming events and memberships at pinseekersgolflounge.com.
6001 W Parmer Ln,
Ste. 203
Austin, Texas 78727
With the heat of summer upon us, we are a great option to escape the heat. We offer 100,000 Golf Courses, Par 3 Courses, 3 18 hole Putt Putt Courses. Over 20 Interactive sports games from our new Basketball game to our favorite Zombie Dodgeball. More than just golf and it is a great time for the entire family. GET 20% OFF ANY OF OUR “BEAT THE HEAT” PACKAGES ONLINE. USE CODE LIFESTYLE24
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPIRITLESS
Delight in a better-for-you beverage with a refreshing Spiritless K74 Frozen Strawberry Lemonade
When Lauren Chitwood, Abbey Ferguson, and Lexie Larsen founded Spiritless, they weren’t trying to disrupt the traditional beverage-alcohol market. Their goal was to change drinking culture by making non-alcoholic options more accessible. “We weren’t trying to push an exclusively sober lifestyle,” said Chitwood. “We wanted to give people the option to drink what they want, when and where they want.”
Created in the heart of bourbon country and bottled in Texas, Spiritless makes beautifully distilled non-alcoholic spirits and cocktails. Their award-winning non-alc spirits are meant to replace (or complement) the fullstrength stuff in your favorite bourbon and tequila cocktails. Visit spiritless.com to learn more.
• ½ oz cup frozen strawberries
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 2 oz Kentucky 74
• 2-3 basil leaves
• ½ cup crushed ice
Step 1. In a blender, add crushed ice, frozen strawberries, lemon juice, basil leaves, and Kentucky 74.
Step 2. Blend until smooth.
Step 3. Pour into glass. Garnish with fresh basil and strawberry.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF BY TRYING NEW THERAPIES TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH WITH PREMIERE WELLNESS CENTER CRYOFIT CEDAR PARK
Having been raised in Austin, Hunter Brown’s Texas roots run deep. Even during his pursuit of a political science degree, he remained in-state at Rice University, where he also played college baseball. Throughout his athletic journey, the necessity of sitting in ice baths for repair work was a consistent challenge—one he admits was far from enjoyable.
When Brown later set out to address his lingering injuries, he discovered the revolutionary approach to healing that is cryotherapy. With this innovative solution, he experienced genuine rejuvenation.
“Over the hundreds and hundreds of clients we’ve had walk in, everyone has said they feel so much better when they leave.”
Motivated by his own positive transformation, Brown jumped at the chance to expand CryoFit into Cedar Park and Bee Cave.
Now, alongside functional fitness trainer Jessica Western and registered nurse Samantha Rawlinson, Brown oversees the provision of comprehensive wellness services at his franchise locations. These services are tailored to meet each client’s needs through two paths—restorative and regenerative therapies.
“People don’t walk in without something bothering them. The main thing is to really uncover what is ailing them and determine exactly what our next steps are to provide comfort,” says Brown.
“The biggest benefit of this whole thing is seeing peoples’ lives change.”
Some remarkable changes have included shedding 50 pounds and getting off antidepressant medications, all while improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Whether a client suffers from joint pain, headaches, or sleep issues, CryoFit aims to promote their overall well-being.
“The most effective way to treat your body is by understanding that this is a cumulative process,” says Brown. “We are all incredibly hardwired for instant gratification these days. This is an instant gratification feeling, but the best benefits come if you continue long-term.”
Want to try CryoFit Cedar Park’s infrared sauna, IV drip therapy, or cryotherapy? Schedule services at mycryofit.com and stop by 700 E Whitestone Blvd, Suite 203!
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
Looking for a spot where every moment is an adventure? An all-under-one-roof getaway, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions promises an experience like no other. A quick drive from Cedar Park, it’s the perfect place to stay or spend the day.
Adults can indulge in their favorite cocktails from a swim-up bar before soaking up the sun on the lazy river. At the same time, kids can zip down slides, play in water features, and test their surfing skills on a wave simulator. Then, everyone can head to Tom Foolerys Adventure Park’s arcade, which features nearly 250 video, prize, and virtual reality games. It even has a laser tag arena, mirror maze, escape rooms, ropes courses, and jungle-themed mini golf!
Whether you have a love for the extreme or prefer to chill on vacation, there will be the right attractions for you. Book your unforgettable Kalahari Round Rock excursion at kalahariresorts.com/texas.
Vacation close to home at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
MAKE MEMORIES WITH YOUR FAMILY THROUGH AGRITAINMENT AT SWEET EATS ADVENTURE FARM
Pig races, apple cannons, wagon rides—oh my! As it stands today, along with where it’s headed, Sweet Eats Adventure Farm encapsulates what it means to be future-focused.
Since opening to the public seven years ago, Sweet Eats has dramatically evolved from its initial goal to be a pick-your-own-fruit farm. When the team created the pony ride, petting zoo, and jump pad area, they realized that they hit a nerve with the community. This brand of family fun, going beyond picking strawberries and peaches, was something people had been yearning for.
Plan your trip to Sweet Eats
Farm at 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown! Whether you catch the tail-end of the Sunflower Festival or are preparing for the cooler months of the Fall Festival, Sweet Eats looks forward to having you.
“Change is hard for many people, but it’s in my DNA to embrace change, and hence it’s in the DNA of the farm,” says Sweet Eats owner Jon Meredith. “In late 2019, we joined an organization of farms like us around the country and visited one in Omaha. That’s where the next light bulb moment came from, and I got the vision for what we are: a farm-themed amusement park. It’s been a steady march toward realizing that vision.”
For Meredith, it’s not solely about embracing change, but also about embracing trial and error. He spends a solid quarter of his day-to-day observing the industry and testing new additions, recognizing that we never know something will work unless we try.
“I invested a lot of time and money on building out a commercial facility that could handle the larger crowds we were doing. Now, my attention has turned back toward the customer experience, and we are focusing on beautification and laying the groundwork for an overhaul of the activities area of the farm,” says Meredith. “I have many more activities planned that will help customers get more value out of their time here.”
Examples of what’s to come include a dinosaur-themed maze complete with animatronics, an early spring tulip festival, and the beginnings of Christmas tree harvest in 2025. This is, of course, on top of things like their annual Easter egg hunts, Wine Your Way Out event, and fireworks in October. But what Meredith is most excited about is the exotic animal and birds of prey shows, coming this fall.
On top of taking best practices from the amusement park world, Sweet Eats takes best practices from the agriculture community. By merging them, Meredith and his team have been able to construct something that is unique and eclectically Austin. Now, when field trips come through, Sweet Eats serves as a space to educate, promoting healthier habits and environmental stewardship.
“It’s really neat watching kids realize and understand where their food comes from—what a strawberry plant looks like, or opening up the chicken coop and seeing them laying eggs,” says Meredith.
Families from all over, with children of all ages, are drawn to participate in the seasonal festivities offered at Sweet Eats. Through its commitment to community engagement and innovation, it has grown into a staple of Central Texas where you can get out and breathe some fresh country air.
“The farm is designed to be a place where families can make magical memories together. We can harken back to a time before technology, where you are connected to nature and your deep roots of agriculture,” says Meredith. “We encourage families to play together and build those memories that last a lifetime.”
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 3RD
Leander's Liberty Fest at Devine Lake Park
1807 Waterfall Ave, Leander, TX 78641 | 6:00 PM
Get ready for Leander's largest annual event in honor of Independence Day. Featuring live music, food, children's activities, and a spectacular fireworks display, Liberty Fest is a delight for all ages! Admission is free, but Kids Zone wristbands are available for purchase. In addition to the Devine Lake Park festival, you can also watch fireworks from Benbrook Ranch Park. leandertx.gov
JULY 4TH
Cedar Park's July 4 Celebration at Milburn Park
1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 5:00 PM
Where can you expect to find free carnival rides and inflatables, live music, and concessions? At our city's annual July 4 Celebration! Until 11:30 PM, you and your family can soak in the summer with holiday festivities galore, including the iconic fireworks show. Following the fireworks, stick around and cozy up to watch a movie in the park. cedarparktexas.gov
JULY 6TH, 13TH, 20TH & 27TH
Austin Steam Train
Association's Bertram Flyer
401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613
All aboard! This summer, sit back and enjoy a relaxing 44-mile ride on the Bertram Flyer. On the first Saturday of July, you can take part in the special Independence Day Express to commemorate its namesake. Or on the third Saturday, you can get dressed up in honor of the Hero Train. Departure is at 9 AM each weekend. austinsteamtrain.org
JULY 8TH (MONDAYS - THURSDAYS)
Müv Dance & Fitness
Studio summer camps
1717 Scottsdale Dr, Leander, TX 78641
Starting July 8th, Mini Müvers Dance Camps are here! If your kids are ages four to 10 and like getting their groove on, sign them up for a summer of rhythmic fun. In order, the July camps are Barbie Dream Week, Flip Hop, Disney Princess, and Swiftie Camp. Keep your littles entertained as they learn new styles and put on a show. muv678.com
JULY 13TH
Country Night featuring top hits at Haute Spot
1501 E New Hope Dr, Leander, TX 78641 | 8:00 PM
Sing along to your favorite country songs during the Country Night extravaganza. When you visit Haute Spot, you will be moseying into the heart of the Wild West. Whether you're a seasoned cowboy or a city slicker eager to learn, it's time to get boot-scootin'! Grab a table for you and your friends before seats fill up. hautespot.live
JULY 20TH - 21ST
Greater Austin Comic Con 2024 at H-E-B Center
2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Join in on two family-friendly, fun-filled days at this year's bigger and better Greater Austin Comic Con! There will be several vendors, gaming competitions, cosplay contests, a superhero-themed car show, and plenty of entertainment for kids. Plus, with a star-studded guestlist including Weird Al Yankovic, you have the chance for some great meet-and-greets. Get your tickets now! greateraustincomiccon.com
A FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACK
GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? This easyto-pack and satisfying snack is a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare it together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!
• 2 cups quick oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/3 cup apple butter
• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1/2 cup raisins
1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.
3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)
4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.
THE VIEWS YOU HAVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR…
• Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Canyon Lake and Horseshoe Bay Areas
• STUNNING hilltop views with elevations as high as 1,600 feet
• 13 to 20+ acre tracts of land ready to build your forever home
• Gated communities with paved roads and wildlife tax valuation
• Grottos, ponds, seasonal creeks, canyons and short/long views
• Close to urban development but tranquil, pastoral rural setting www.ranchesat.com
Developers Mike and Kim Clinard
