The Explore Issue
TRAVEL
SEE THE WORLD YOUR WAY WITH EXPEDIA CRUISES ROUND ROCK
Exploring Our Surrounding Cities!
Exploration—whether of new places, ideas, or perspectives—keeps life dynamic, meaningful, and in motion. Explorers colonized America, while others took us to the moon. Polar expeditions and deep-sea research explorations are still making new discoveries today. And what about the new AI technology that is pushing unknown boundaries? Civilization wouldn’t be where we are today without explorers and visionaries immersing themselves in innovation.
Away we go into Cedar Park and Leander exploring how to make personalized unique art deco pieces with Hawaii Fluid Art, feeling the crispness in the cool air while observing the local underground spelunking at Inner Space Cavern, enjoying the great outdoors while preserving our green spaces and providing a nutrition boost to our area’s trees with recommendations from Good Guys Tree Service. Find your next dream vacation in some exciting, exotic, worldwide travel destinations. All while seeing the world clearly through protecting and perfecting your eyesight to looking really cool in your new hipster designer sunglasses from Cedar Park Vision.
On this majestic day known as the 4th of July, when America celebrates its freedom, independence, and birthday, let’s celebrate too by bursting with patriotism. Fly your American flag proudly, watch the skies blaze with fireworks, attend a red, white, and blue parade, and thank a veteran for their service to our country.
It’s going to be a hot one this Texas summer, so slap on your sunscreen and keep enjoying life! Remember you’re exploring every new day God has for you! You never know what you will discover! Post your pics and tag us at @cedarpark_ citylifestyle and you might see yourself in our magazine’s City Scenes next month.
Let’s discover all the gems hidden inside our cities! I’ll be exploring new businesses and endless opportunities to bring new insights to our community of readers! Thanks for sharing your stories and ideas!
So, I’ll see you around town!
PAM DUGDALE, PUBLISHER
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Myke Toman, Kelly Phillips
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ted & Wendy Randall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ted & Wendy Randall, Rachel Fore-Harlow, Kadyn Pierce
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn
Upon entering you’ll find a bright and welcoming atmosphere with newly painted interiors that create an inviting backdrop for your personal touches. This home is in a great location near the Round Rock Outlet mall and Old Settlers Park. Listed at $325,000 this 4 bedroom and 2 bathroom does not disappoint with tons of updates and an open floor plan.
Call, text, or email me for a private showing or to see how much I could sell your home for.
Practice of Dr. Akash "Doc Ak" Pandya
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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
JULY 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Austin Spanish Academy teaches community about immersive programs at Cedar Park Kite Festival. 2: Dr. Kelsey Burrow with REIZ Adaptive Fitness’s Mziya Weber at Propel Physical Therapy. 3: Nilam Patel’s Into Her Wild book launch with Twinkle Zaman, Raquel Medora, and Ashlynn Delias. 4: Good Guys Tree Service crew gives out merchandise and popsicles to support Live @ Lakeline. 5: Youth from Communities in Schools and Gus Garcia Recreation Center experience Candlelight Ranch outdoor retreat. 6: Steve Nay, Allison Bouwman, and Andrew Slaton-Freeman lead financial panel at Alignable networking event. 7: Lioness Books owner Sarah Ambrus and Cedar Park Mom Vlog’s Jenn Duncan at Vision Night.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
CANDLELIGHT RANCH
MEGAN MARSHALL
MEGAN MARSHALL
NILAM PATEL
MEGAN MARSHALL
MEGAN MARSHALL MEGAN MARSHALL
These formative years are crucial for cognitive and social development, fostering growth, curiosity, and a love for learning.
BRIDGE
This is a “gift of time,” allowing children to increase their knowledge while receiving personalized, attentive support from our dedicated educators.
KINDERGARTEN - 2ND GRADE
Building on an established foundation as children transition from mastering letters to words and numbers to equations.
Revel in the Remarkable
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.
Truluck’s Arboretum
10225 Research Blvd, Suite 4000 Austin, TX 512.794.8300 | www.trulucks.com YOUR TABLE IS WAITING
Expedia Cruises Round Rock celebrates two years of inspiring travel
What began as a dream fueled by a love for travel has become a vibrant hub for adventurers in Central Texas. After spending 12 years abroad, Ted and Wendy Randall returned home to share their passion. Since opening Expedia Cruises Round Rock on May 31st, 2023, they’ve helped countless travelers plan unforgettable getaways, from African safaris to Bali beaches to flamenco dancing in Spain. Ready to explore the world? Book your free consultation today! expediacruises.com/round-rock
Martinizing Central Texas opens Cedar Park and Liberty Hill locations
With a vision to provide a convenient, timesaving, earth- and health-friendly
Photography by Expedia Cruises
experience, Martinizing has spent the last 75 years proving its dedication to exceptional customer service. Now, with the support of his family, Director of Operations Zhane Thomas has welcomed two stores to the area. For the Martinizing team, it’s all about the people they get to serve. Take garment care cleaning off your to-do list and make life easier with 100% non-toxic dry-cleaning! linktr.ee/martinizingcentex
Yesterday’s Gone honors first anniversary with Resilience to Radiance fundraiser
A proud nonprofit, Yesterday’s Gone is dedicated to ensuring no one has to return to a bad home life. This May marked one of their first milestones, and their devoted team— including founder Loree Tamayo— came together with their supporters to celebrate it at Reunion Ranch. Tim and Celia Malkemus, with Leander-based florist Bloom and Leaf, joined in the fun with beautiful arrangements throughout the venue that spoke to the theme, Resilience to Radiance. yesterdaysgone.org & bloomandleaf.com
Photography by Megan Marshall
Photography by Martinizing Cedar Park
Here’s to Years of Adventures!
Travel far and wide with Expedia Cruises Round Rock
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY TED & WENDY RANDALL
CAMBODIA
The Angkor temples are a vast stone labyrinth in the Cambodian jungle, where crumbling towers and sacred carvings spark adventure. Each temple is a portal to a forgotten empire waiting to be rediscovered.
ICELAND
In Iceland, thundering waterfalls crash into emerald valleys, geysers erupt with primal force, and puffins perch on sea cliffs. Volcanic craters scar the land in a place where nature dares you to explore.
JAMAICA
Jamaica’s sun-drenched beaches and world-class resorts invite you to unwind in style. Turquoise waves meet private cabanas, rum cocktails flow freely, and spa retreats and cliffside infinity pools provide moments designed for indulgence.
ANTARCTICA
In Antarctica’s icy expanse, penguins parade across frozen shores and leopard seals glide through the water, eyeing parka-clad explorers. Every moment in this wilderness feels like a rare encounter at the world’s edge.
SWITZERLAND
Glide through the Swiss Alps by train, where panoramic windows frame the majestic Matterhorn. From Harder Kulm summit views to elegant alpine travel, Switzerland is a masterpiece of natural beauty and refined adventure.
Book now: expediacruises.com/round-rock
Dive into color and creativity! From summer camps to date nights, birthdays to peaceful escapes—our hands-on workshops make it easy (and fun!) to create your own masterpiece in fluid art, resin beach scenes, tumblers, glass painting, and MORE!
EXPERIENCE THE Aloha Spirit
Celebrate self-expression when you embrace Hawaii Fluid Art Cedar Park’s island energy and inclusivity
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY PHILLIPS
Bringing joy and nurturing the human spirit one painting at a time—that’s what Hawaii Fluid Art stands for.
Since opening, Michael Lutz and Jessica Baisley have welcomed guests of all ages and skills. A family traveled from Waco to design heartfelt Mother’s Day gifts, a man who is red-green color blind was wowed by the beauty of contrast, and nine women spent hours expressing how their artwork resembled each other.
“It’s so uplifting for us to see the excitement on someone’s face,” says Michael. “People will say, ‘Oh, you’ve captured my personality.’ But I didn’t capture anything—you picked your colors, you picked the technique, you poured it out the way you wanted to. I provided guidance.”
“I was so excited to open this for the community. I love that it’s very inclusive and that anybody can do it,” says Jessica. “My son is 22 years old and on the spectrum, and the first time he did it, he got right into it.”
Jessica previously taught elementary school, while Michael comes from tech. His creativity stems from over 20 years of underwater photography, though neither considers themselves especially artistic.
“You don’t need an art background to create beautiful pieces. That’s our motto—trust the process,” says Jessica. “People get nervous when they come in to do a piece, but this is a very relaxing environment. You don’t have to be perfect when you create.”
At Hawaii Fluid Art, you’re invited to explore traditional canvases, resin tumblers, glass painting, and more.
Michael would stay in the studio all day if he could. Both he and Jessica are grateful for the support of the Cedar Park community in bringing their 85 different paints to life in such a special way.
“The most fulfilling part is doing it with Jess,” says Michael. “The people and the creativity are wonderful, but getting to do this with my partner… It’s been hard, but it’s been fun.”
Schedule your date night, Sip & Paint, or birthday party at hawaiifluidart.com/cedar-park-tx or 1335 E Whitestone Blvd, Ste T-120.
Boutique Dog Bathing & Grooming Salon
Where the Past Comes Alive
PICK YOUR PATH AND STEP INTO TEXAS HISTORY WITH INNER SPACE CAVERN IN GEORGETOWN
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACHEL FORE-HARLOW
Not too far from our town lies a time capsule that remained hidden for over 10,000 years. That is, until the Texas Highway Department stumbled upon it in 1963.
In the nearly 60 years since opening to the public, Inner Space Cavern has been touted as one of Texas’s best-preserved caves. Families, schools, and adventurers alike are welcome to explore an underground world filled with stunning rock formations, massive chambers, and prehistoric animal bones. The cave maintains a 72-degree temperature throughout the year and stays dry even during the rainiest days, making it the perfect outing in any season.
For the classic experience, sign up for the Adventure Tour. This one-hour guided walk along paved, well-lit paths takes visitors through the cavern’s largest and most decorated rooms. Along the way, you get to hear about the cave’s discovery and ancient history.
If you are craving a more rugged experience, the Wild Cave Tour and Hidden Passages Tour offer a deeper dive underground. The Wild Cave Tour is a physically demanding
three- to four-hour adventure through narrow crawlspaces and twisting passages. Guests are provided with helmets, headlamps, and gloves. The Hidden Passages Tour, while less intense, explores a recently opened section of the cave along an undeveloped trail.
Earlier this summer, Inner Space Cavern also hosted its special Ice Age Adventure Tour—a rare opportunity to learn about sabertooth cats and mammoths alongside a real paleontologist. Led by John A. Moretti, a PhD candidate from UT Austin, the tour offered fascinating insights into the cave’s past and ongoing research shaping our understanding of the region’s natural history.
But it doesn’t stop underground. You can pan for semi-precious gemstones and fossils in the outdoor mining sluice, take on the tandem zip ride called The Saber Tooth, and finish the day with made-in-house candied nuts and fudge. There’s no shortage of family fun!
Book tours at innerspacecavern.com or 4200 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Georgetow n.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
GROW SMARTER
& STRONGER
Good Guys Tree Service lives up to its name with a strong commitment to the Greater Austin community. As locals themselves, the team sees it as their responsibility to care for the place they call home.
They give back where it counts, participating in the annual St. Jude Walk for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and supporting Dell Seton’s important work. Their Good Guys Gives Back initiative also provides free tree care to those in need, based on customer nominations.
At the heart of their efforts is a dedication to making properties both beautiful and safe. Equipped to handle even the most complex tree issues, the team brings deep knowledge they’re eager to share with clients.
“What not a lot of homeowners know is that they all believe that they’re watering, but it’s not necessarily going down to the roots. That’s because the majority of the houses here have compacted soil,” says Operations Manager and Certified Arborist Daniel Cranfill. “We recommend our deep root fertilization, which aerates the soil, puts pressure on it, and provides the nutrients that are needed for the roots.”
Healthy trees can increase a home’s value by thousands, but common mistakes can put that investment at risk. Many people don’t consider that nursery trees are grown in soil with a specific pH, which may not match their yard. And while watering is key, overwatering young trees can lead to root rot.
That’s why regular check-ins with trusted arborists make all the difference, boosting curb appeal and helping your trees thrive.
“We’re insured all the way around,” says Cranfill. “Our goal is to save the trees as much as we can, and to make sure everything’s done the way it should be.”
Get your quote for trimming, removal, or fertilization by visiting: goodguystreeservice.com
DISCOVER WHY HOMEOWNERS PUT THEIR FAITH IN LOCALLY-OWNED GOOD GUYS TREE SERVICE
YOU NEED A SOAKER HOSE!
A soaker hose delivers water slowly and efficiently at the base of your trees, helping moisture reach the roots without waste. This is especially important during our dry, hot summers!
See life clearly this summer and beyond with prescription sunglasses from Cedar Park Vision
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
In Texas, sunshine isn’t just a season—it’s a way of life. And while we love the long, bright days, our eyes deserve just as much safeguarding as our skin. That’s where prescription sunglasses come in, and Cedar Park Vision is here to help you find the perfect pair.
“Choosing the right prescription sunglasses involves selecting the best combination of lenses, materials, and features for your vision needs and lifestyle,” says optician Koby Caldwell.
Lens types range from single vision to progressive, offering clear sight whether you’re reading by the pool or walking on the beach. As for lens materials, Cedar Park Vision often suggests Trivex, which is lightweight, durable, and works well for all frame designs.
Tint options also make a difference. Gray preserves true color perception, brown enhances contrast and depth, green provides solid contrast with minimal color distortion, and yellow improves visibility in low-light conditions. Polarized lenses and coatings go even further by minimizing strain so that your eyes stay comfortable longer.
“When it comes to features, we like to recommend polarization for its ability to reduce glare drastically, giving relief to the eyes,” says Caldwell. “Adding a mirror coating would provide the wearer with a lens that is able to minimize the amount of light entering
the lenses by reflecting it back. This gives the patient the best protection, comfort, and clarity for their eyes, especially if it’s paired with a well-fitted frame.”
With turnaround times of about two weeks and no appointment necessary if you have a current and valid prescription, Cedar Park Vision makes it easy to preserve your sight as summer hits full swing.
“The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the most common form of damage that people regularly expose themselves to, which makes having sunglasses such an essential part of our lives,” says Caldwell.
Visit cedarparkvision.com or stop by 908 W Whitestone Blvd, Ste 100 to find your new favorite sunglasses.
Drive Into Discovery
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE, KNOWLEDGE, AND FUN FEEDING ENCOUNTERS
FRANKLIN DRIVE THRU SAFARI
From hand-feeding zebras and camels right from your car to floating the day away in the lazy river, this spot blends outdoor adventure with total relaxation. You can even take a pontoon ride to Lemur Island, where you’ll get up close with curious lemurs in their own private paradise. Stay in one of the cozy cabins right on the property, complete with a full kitchen, fire pit, and plenty of room to unwind after a day of exploring.
franklinsafari.com | Franklin, TX
NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH
Adventure meets education on the Texas plains. Home to over 500 animals, this drive-thru safari offers both selfguided tours and expert-led excursions that bring you close to the wild. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for a VIP giraffe or rhino encounter, where you’ll get personal with these majestic creatures while learning about the conservation efforts helping to protect them. And don’t forget the aviary excursion!
wildliferanchtexas.com | San Antonio, TX
TEXAS ZOOFARI PARK
With 900 acres of wide-open space, this massive safari lets you explore at your own pace, with exotic animals roaming right outside your vehicle. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Head to the Village Walk-About, where you can feed giraffes romaine leaves by hand or surround yourself with colorful parakeets in the Budgie Adventure Aviary. The Texas Outback is also now open for you to watch as kangaroos jump around or enjoy a lazy nap in the sun.
texaszoofaripark.com | Kaufman, TX
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KADYN PIERCE
Sharing Sweet Traditions
Transform your local celebrations with treats that delight and connect from Blazin Glazin Donuts
Before Blazin Glazin Donuts, Scott Barasch was a project manager at Apple, overseeing major launches and collaborating across continents. But after years of high-level corporate success, he knew it was time for change. He wanted the freedom to set his schedule, tap into his creative side, and build something meaningful with his family.
Growing up in the Valley, Laurie Ann Barasch’s grandparents owned a café, where her grandfather was known for his cinnamon sugar donuts. She’s loved these sweet treats all her life, and naturally passed that down to her kids—and husband.
“We always go on vacation and find a donut place, so when we got a broker and started looking at different types of businesses, it always came back to that idea,” says Laurie. “We wanted something we could do as a family, that really meant something to us.”
That transformed into a fully mobile operation, designed to bring fun wherever it’s needed. Whether it’s corporate gatherings, school functions, or festivals, Blazin
Glazin Donuts shows up ready to crank out fresh mini donuts and beverages.
The spark for the brand came from their fascination with cryptids and Laurie’s childhood memories of camping at national parks. In partnership with a local graphic designer, they dreamed up the perfect mascot, Blaze—a shaggy, donut-loving sasquatch who serves as their go-to photo op.
Scott and Laurie are proud of how their teens have grown alongside the business, gaining valuable life skills through customer service and behind-the-scenes work. From giving back to Leander High School’s baseball team to serving pilots during the solar eclipse in Bertram to championing Texas Parks & Wildlife, the Barasch family goes where they can create memories and spark joy.
“There’s something so special about every event we’ve done. It’s important that we support our community because they support us,” says Laurie. “It’s not always easy, but you always have the support of your family.”
Elevate your event at: bgdonuts.com
“
It’s
something comforting that people know, but it’s also a new experience.
SPLASH INTO SUMMER WITH A POOLSIDE DESIGN OR RENOVATION
BY ANTHONY & SYLVAN POOLS
Since 1946, Anthony & Sylvan Pools has been building backyard memories. With decades of experience, they know how to turn a pool into the centerpiece of summer fun.
In Central Texas, heat is a key factor in pool design. Natural stones help manage surface temperatures, while aerators and chillers provide welcome relief on triple-digit days.
Each project starts with a big dig—and yes, a mess—but that mess quickly becomes something unforgettable. From simple backyard retreats to a showstopping pool perched 25 feet above ground with Hill Country views, Anthony & Sylvan does it all.
“Everybody has their unique style,” says Lauren Hudler. “Some people want to match their home, and others are looking for a totally different paradise. Some people love what the pools look like in Mexico, or maybe even Palm Springs. There are a lot of options to customize the experience.”
You might include a margarita table, a water feature, or the increasingly popular sun shelves perfect for lounging in shallow water. Just be sure your new pool checks your boxes without crowding your guests.
“Keep it simple. Try not to get too excited or overwhelmed with all of the different features,” says Hudler. “It’s really about being able to enjoy it with your family and do what your perfect Saturday looks like.”
The Anthony & Sylvan designers are constantly amazed by the creativity homeowners bring to the table.
“I didn’t have a pool in my backyard in my younger years, and I certainly remember the kids who did,” says Hudler. “I think it’s awesome being able to come into people’s homes and hear what their vision is and bring it to life. Then the aftermath of that is just knowing that they’re going to have years and years of fun.”
Schedule your consultation at: anthonysylvan.com
“We’re always working to get better, always learning new things. We’re ready for any challenges that come along.”
PARADISEBUILD YOUR PERSONAL PARADISE
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANTHONY & SYLVAN POOLS
Say “I Do” to Sweet Savings!
Planning your dream wedding just got a little sweeter. For this month only, couples who book their wedding cake with us will receive a complimentary anniversary cake — a perfect way to celebrate your first year of marriage with a taste of your special day.
Our expert bakers craft each wedding cake with love, care, and the finest ingredients to ensure your celebration is as memorable as it is delicious. From elegant designs to personalized flavors, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
Don’t miss this limited-time offer — because every love story deserves a sweet beginning and an even sweeter anniversary.
THROUGHOUT JULY
Honor Parks & Recreation Month with fun family activities
Leander, TX 78641
July 1st, indulge in National Creative Ice Cream Day with sundaes at the Leander Activity Center. July 5th, participate in the Keiki Splash Bash at Robin Bledsoe Park. July 11th, bring your pups to Lakewood Dog Park for National All-American Pet Photo Day. July 12th, watch “The Goonies” during dive-in movie night. And… visit the city’s website for more! leandertx.gov
JULY 3RD
Party like it’s 1776 with Leander’s Liberty Fest
1807 Waterfall Ave, Leander, TX 78641 | 6:00 PM
Devine Lake Park is bringing the fun with Leander’s annual Liberty Fest. With live music, food, and a spectacular fireworks display, your whole family can celebrate a little early. There will also be children’s activities, including bounce houses, slides, and basketball hoops. Since there is no on-site parking, hop aboard the event buses at Glenn High School. leandertx.gov
JULY 3RD
Visit Liberty Hill for their Independence Day Spectacular
13125 TX-29, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | 6:00 PM
What says “America” more than a homemade apple pie contest? Maybe a watermelon seed spitting contest? Or perhaps a hot dog eating contest? You can participate in all of the above when you celebrate freedom at Liberty Hill Middle School! Before the fireworks show, join in the fun of a snowball fight and listen to the headliner band. experiencelhtx.com
JULY 4TH
Cedar Park Parks & Recreation hosts July 4 Celebration
1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 5:00 PM
As one of the largest events in Cedar Park, you don’t want to miss out on 4th of July at Elizabeth Milburn Park! The festivities will consist of live music, carnival rides, inflatables, and local food vendors. At the end of the night, your family can watch the fireworks show, followed by a movie on the big screen. cedarparktexas.gov
JULY 12TH
The ’90s VMA’s Tour presented by Fool House
1501 E New Hope Dr, Leander, TX 78641 | 6:00 PM
Experience the ultimate ’90s party when you get tickets at our local premier outdoor music venue, Haute Spot. On top of there being a great live band, there will also be a video DJ, trivia, a red carpet photo op, dancing, and a balloon drop. And it all happens under the stars! Happy Hour goes until 7 PM. hautespot.live
JULY 19TH & 20TH
Greater Austin Comic Con presented by Thomas J. Henry
2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
The biggest and best Greater Austin Comic Con is on its way! A celebration that brings all things pop culture together, GACC will provide two family-friendly, fun-filled days at the H-E-B Center. Expect gaming competitions, cosplay contests, a superhero-themed car show, and plenty of vendors and entertainment for all ages. Come meet your favorite stars, creators, and developers. greateraustincomiccon.com
Discover a New Youthful Look
