Upgrade Your Windows for Summer Comfort
For the Men on a Mission
This month, we bring to you the Gentlemen’s Issue! It’s all about men who have broken a sweat and broken the mold—aka the fellas who keep it pushing with grit, drive, and a dream.
Every time I think of someone like that, it’s my grandpa who comes to mind. (If Mawmaw is reading this to you right now, hi Pawpaw! And if you are reading this yourself... You can read?!) He’s the definition of unstoppable. The man’s had a job since he was twelve, having grown up with a deeply rooted understanding of what it means to have a strong work ethic.
Even now, long past the age most people trade their tools for a recliner (if you’re still following along, sorry not sorry for calling you old), he continues to mow lawns for his neighbors despite the sweltering Louisiana heat. And when he’s not battling the sun, he’s been known to put on a red nose and clown costume to bring laughter to kids who really need that laugh from Shriners Children’s Hospital. He does it all with purpose and without ever asking for applause.
My grandpa is the type of guy who can’t sit still because sitting still doesn’t help people. He’s always moving, always giving, and always finishing what he starts. For him, it’s just a matter of doing what needs to be done. He’s proof that motivation isn’t a feeling you wait for—it’s a habit you develop by showing up every single day.
That kind of dedication is contagious. Thankfully, the Greater Austin area has its fair share of go-getters who are walking the walk, too.
To the men featured in this issue, thank you for proving that passion and perseverance go hand-in-hand. Whether your heart is set on music, painting, or juggling your balloon animal gigs between yard work, know that you are breathing life into this community just by doing what you care about. Because whenever you turn an idea into action, your good intentions turn into great impact.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads (and granddads!) out there. We hope you enjoy getting to know more about the gentlemen right here in town, and hope you feel inspired to take a leap of your own!
MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Myke Toman, Kelly Phillips
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bri Thomas, Aaron Cash, Shelby McPhaul
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
Custom Cakes for the Modern Gentleman
Elevate your celebration with a cake as bold as your story. At Sugar Shaker Bakery, we craft custom groom’s cakes and masculine-themed confections with expert precision and professional flair.
Whether it’s classic sophistication, a nod to his favorite hobby, or a sharp design tailored to his style — we bring your vision to life in cake form.
- Custom Groom’s Cakes - Refined, Masculine Designs - Expertly Crafted, Always Delicious
Perfect for weddings, milestone birthdays, retirements, and more!
Send flowers that match his strength and style. Browse our catalog or let us craft something custom just for him.
inside the issue
Lighting a Legacy
Find out the story behind the luxurious Dominican blends by De Gracia & Estevez Cigars.
Your House, Their Spotlight
Experience Ted Dimbero’s mission of taking the music scene to the next level through CouchConcerts.
Critters, Creativity, & the Call of Texas
Brighten your world with BrunkyArt, thanks to Jason Wallerstein’s one-of-a-kind creative style.
Gam
See how developer Eric Perardi’s vision for The Crossover has evolved with athletic opportunities.
De Gracia & Estevez Cigars’ Miguel and Gissel De Gracia alongside Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery’s Randy Aylieff and Glenda and Jordan Watters with their collaborative bourbon-infused cigars.
Myke Toman
JUNE 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Truluck’s Arboretum treats fellow tenants Cousins Properties with Easter-themed dessert bar. 2: Rustic Yet Refined’s Jon and Johanna Beaulieu at Cedar Park Mom Vlog’s Spring Fling market. 3: Come and Hike It guides participants on a healing journey at Big Bend National Park. 4: Forever Glow Aesthetics’s Danielle Bayer leads Alignable Lunch & Learn icebreaker at Red Horn Scottsdale. 5: Vessel Longevity + IV Bar customer recharges body and mind with the BioCharger. 6: Doc Ak and the SmileOntourage welcome the Cedar Park Leadership Class on Annual Healthcare Day. 7: Local author Yasmeen Salama signs “The Crimson Run” copies at Jester King Brewery vendor market.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
VESSEL LONGEVITY
TRULUCK’S
MYKE TOMAN
MEGAN MARSHALL
SMILEON ORTHODONTICS
MEGAN MARSHALL
business monthly
Pure Natural Nails & Skin Care now under new ownership
Are you a precise and professional nail technician? Pure Natural Nails is expanding their team, under new management! Dedicated to providing a superior spa experience, this spot on S Lakeline Blvd offers a chemical-free, drill-free environment with all-natural products. Their licensed technicians pride themselves on their extreme sanitary practices when providing manicures, pedicures, and an array of makeup and waxing options. Guests can even host private parties and take advantage of happy hour specials. purenaturalnails.com
Scan to read more
NFM partners with Parks and Trails Foundation of Cedar Park
In April, Nebraska Furniture Mart proudly announced its partnership with the Parks and Trails Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. NFM will help support local park improvements, conservation initiatives, and community events that encourage outdoor recreation and environmental education. Cedar Park Store Director Josh Ortiz says the team saw the incredible work the Parks and Trails Foundation does and knew this was an organization they needed to join forces with. nfm.com
Photography by NFM
Photography by Pure Natural Nails
Dominican Cigars
We are a boutique cigar brand specializing in the craft of exquisite, small batch, handcrafted, artisanal cigars that embody the rich heritage of Dominican tobacco, delivering an unparalleled smoking experience that celebrates artistry, quality, and tradition. Our cigar factory is located in Tamboril, considered by many as the “World Capital of Cigars” housing more cigar factories and rollers than anywhere else in the world.
Lighting a Legacy
Honor the artistry, quality, and tradition that De Gracia & Estevez Cigars embodies
The story of De Gracia & Estevez Cigars begins not with a business plan, but with a memory…
A dining room in the Dominican Republic, the scent of fresh tobacco, and the quiet ritual of a man ending his day with a hand-rolled cigar and a glass of rum. That man was Miguel Angel Casado, a farmer whose commitment to connection would inspire a new generation.
Years later, his grandson, Miguel De Gracia, inherited a parcel of that same farmland, and with it came a spark. What started as a tribute to his happy childhood quickly became a full-fledged pursuit fueled by family. Short but efficient trips to the Dominican Republic have followed, where Miguel and his brotherin-law and cigar aficionado, Hector Estevez, proudly established their production in Tamboril alongside their wives, CFO Gissel and CLO Emma.
After two years of working with their master blender and countless rounds of testing, they launched four signature cigar blends at Flat Creek Estate over Thanksgiving weekend 2024.
“Our process begins with a deep respect for the heritage of tobacco cultivation and the artistry behind cigar-making,” says Miguel. “Every step, from manually rolling and
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
binding the cigars to meticulously curing and aging them, is handled by artisans in our team who blend traditional techniques with modern precision. This careful, hands-on process guarantees that each cigar we produce is a work of art.”
DGE Cigars are now featured in local businesses that share their passion for craftsmanship. At Adele’s Restaurant & Lounge, patrons enjoy curated cigar and wine pairings on the upscale but relaxed patio. And at Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery, DGE Cigars co-created a bourbon-infused blend called “Luna,” using the distillery’s spirit.
“Cigar lovers typically love whiskey, and vice versa, so we have forged a promotional partnership, as well as are sharing a permanent space at Iron Wolf where they have constructed an outdoor cigar lounge and store,” says Iron Wolf CEO Jordan Watters. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring this enhanced experience to our Iron Wolf Pack and venue!”
Since launching, DGE Cigars has grown rapidly, balancing scale with quality. For Miguel, watching the company evolve is like watching a child grow up, and he credits Gissel with keeping them honest and grounded every day.
“We celebrate every milestone like it’s the best thing that could happen to anyone alive,” says Miguel. “Also, what’s very important to us, and especially a mission my wife feels is a calling from God, is helping the community of Tamboril, where they are real artists who live their lives to make the amazing cigar brands we enjoy around the world.”
Giving back is part of their DNA, from supporting team members’ families in anything from providing school supplies to gifting toys for the holidays.
The journey continues—and for the De Gracias and Estevezes, that means embracing each blessing.
“We have had the opportunity to meet amazing people, not only in our partners, but in the clients who come to buy our cigars, sharing their experiences while enjoying them. It’s just like when I was a young child sitting in the living room with my family, or at celebratory moments like weddings, birthdays, the birth of a child, winning a piece of business… and most importantly, getting close to them and meeting them as humans,” says Miguel. “That’s what smoking cigars should be all about.”
Shop at dgecigars.com , and see De Gracia & Estevez Cigars at Iron Wolf at 101 Co Rd 409, Spicewood , Adele’s at 112 US-281, Marble Falls , and Flat Creek at 24912 Travis Peak Trail, Marble Falls
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.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF COUCHCONCERTS
YOUR HOUSE, THEIR SPOTLIGHT
DIRECTLY SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BANDS AND SINGER-SONGWRITERS WHEN YOU HOST A COUCHCONCERT ALONGSIDE YOUR LOVED ONES
As venues vanish and opportunities for gigs dwindle, musicians are left without a stage. CouchConcerts is changing the game by bringing live music back to intimate settings where true connections are made.
CouchConcerts helps you create invite-only shows where everyone feels right at home—literally. Hosts provide a warm, personal atmosphere while musicians share their stories and guests are gifted with exclusive front-row seats.
“Our goal is to increase the number of places for artists to perform by transforming living rooms, backyards, or any cozy space into venues
“It’s about taking control of how we experience live music and ensuring that artists receive the support they need to continue creating.”
where music lovers come together to enjoy live performances,” says founder and entrepreneur Ted Dimbero. “Whether it’s a quiet acoustic set or a lively performance, the experience is entirely customizable.”
For musicians who feel like they are missing out with noisy bars and casual crowds, CouchConcerts offers a refreshing alternative: an engaged, supportive audience who are there just for the tunes. Plus, the artists keep 100% of fan donations.
“By attending a CouchConcert, you’re directly supporting the artist, knowing that your contribution is going straight into their hands. You spend less, the artists earn more, and the experience is unforgettable,” says Dimbero.
When you turn your living space into a concert venue, you create lasting memories with your friends and family while giving musicians a valuable stage to perform on.
“By creating a nationwide network of house concert hosts, CouchConcerts is not only preserving the tradition of live music but enhancing it,” says Dimbero. “This platform democratizes the live music experience, making it accessible to more people, whether they’re musicians looking for new opportunities, hosts eager to support the arts, or guests who want to enjoy music in a more meaningful way.”
Visit couchconcerts.com to learn more about hosting a talented performer at your next gathering.
STRENGTH DOESN’T RETIRE
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TIM MINNICK
Meet Tim Minnick, a Certified Personal Trainer, Functional Aging Specialist, and Corrective Exercise Specialist
At an age when most people are slowing down, 82-year-old Tim Minnick is just getting warmed up. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest active fitness instructor, Minnick is proof that it’s never too late to prioritize your health.
Exercising is what saved Minnick’s life when he lost his wife, although it wasn’t until later that he became a certified trainer with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Today, he works primarily with clients over 60, many of whom face physical limitations from surgeries, chronic conditions, or years of inactivity. But for Minnick, those limitations are just starting points.
“Everybody can improve if they’ve got the want to,” says Minnick. “I always tell people you’ve got to take control of your health because it’s selfish if you don’t. If you don’t, guess who has to take care of you? Your spouse, your kids. They love you and want
to make sure you’re okay, but it’s not fair to them to become a long-term caregiver.”
In testing their boundaries, his clients are achieving things they never thought possible. A man who first came to him with no gym experience even recently hit a personal best deadlift of 420 pounds—at the age of 67.
At the heart of it all is a simple, powerful mission: to help people not just live longer, but lead more independent, physically and mentally healthy lives.
“Once they get into that routine and build that habit into their lifestyle, they begin to really feel it and see a difference,” says Minnick. “It’s especially difficult for older people to make that change after always doing something a certain way, but if you can get over that hurdle, you get people exercising.”
Get off the sofa and step into your fitness journey at: 60plusfitness.us
“MY GOAL IS TO TOUCH AS MANY LIVES AS I CAN.”
Celebrate Hill Country wildlife through every brushstroke by BrunkyArt’s Jason Wallerstein
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BRUNKYART
CRITTERS, CREATIVITY, & THE CALL OF TEXAS
When Jason and Donna Wallerstein left Florida for the Texas Hill Country, they stepped into a landscape that would redefine their creative journey.
Donna always knew she’d want to settle down in Texas, and when the opportunity arose, it was a natural step toward their dream life. Compared to the small town they were living in, Austin offered a vibrant hub of art, music, and subcultures.
“Moving from Florida to Texas has definitely changed my art influences in a multitude of ways,” says Jason. “In general, nature and animals have always been a driving force in the work that I produce, and simply being in a different area, those things really move the needle on my creativity.”
“The rolling hills and critters that roam our area are so fun to see because they are so different from South Florida,” says Donna. “I think that the excitement of these animals’ foreignness to us has made us curious. This child-like excitement of seeing a roadrunner cross our path or an armadillo waddle by has made both Jason and me fall in love with Cedar Park.”
When they first arrived, Donna transformed an outdoor shed into a fully functional art studio to support her husband’s passion. Beyond giving him a space to create, the couple knew they wanted to use their business, BrunkyArt, to uplift the artistic community and give back to the natural world that inspires them.
“Growing up, my aspirations were either to be an artist or a park ranger,” says Jason. “Caring about nature enriches our lives so beautifully. Whatever I can do to protect animals and our natural surroundings, I’m 100% for it!”
As graduates of the prestigious Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, the Wallersteins understand the importance of funding the visual arts. They now dedicate themselves to art education, while supporting the animal rescues and nature centers that fuel Jason’s style.
“I have the utmost respect for artists who do it all themselves. Aligning my business with other local businesses that are established and have an excellent reputation has been the best decision to help grow BrunkyArt,” says Donna. “Allowing Jason the freedom to be creative without having to do all the marketing, finances, and behind-the-scenes stuff is the most fulfilling part of my role.”
Donna also handles planning BrunkyArt’s appearances. One event that Jason is especially honored to be involved with is the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, a longtime favorite for both artists and collectors. Another tremendous opportunity has been getting to design a label for Still Austin Whiskey Co.’s Designer Reserve Series, an exclusive release that sold all 1,000 bottles in just four minutes.
UPCOMING BRUNKYART EVENTS
• June 28th: Texas Roller Derby at Travis County Expo Center
• August 31st: Texas Roller Derby at Palmer Events Center
• September 27th: PrintAustin’s Print Rodeo at Central Machine Works
• October 1st - 31st: Halloween display on Russet Valley Drive
“Being an artist at Blue Genie is also one of those things that can put you on the map. When I’m at art festivals, people often say, ‘I know you from Blue Genie!’” says Jason. “It’s just wonderful that there are these areas where you can really establish your presence in Austin. Blue Genie is one of those, and I am proud to be a part of such a long-lasting art institution.”
“A driving force behind creating this business has been wanting to share Jason’s artwork with everyone, young and old. The coolest spots BrunkyArt can be found are our stickers on kids’ water bottles and bicycles, as well as customers’ walls in their homes or offices,” says Donna. “It brings me such joy, and I am so happy that people love my husband’s art as much as I do.”
See more of Jason Wallerstein’s art by visiting: brunky.com
A Flavorful Wonderland Awaits You
Authentic recipes, creative drinks, and plenty of personality—that’s how you do it right.
Kick things off at the cozy Conejos Tex-Mex Cantina, where fresh ingredients and bold flair bring the spirit of Mexico to Texas. “Conjeos” means “rabbits,” a nod to the lively energy that carries through every dish and pour. Think sizzling fajitas, hand-rolled enchiladas, smoky brisket tacos, and handmade tortillas.
Then head to one of Rabbit Hole’s two whimsical, clockwork-themed locations. With their industrial-chic vibe that sends you down the rabbit hole, it’s the perfect place to sip something playful like the lavender-kissed Bubbly Bunny or the tropical Beach Wabbit. Happy hour is every hour at Rabbit Hole!
Hop from Conejos to Rabbit Hole for a flavor-packed experience you’ll want to repeat.
Rabbit Hole Cedar Park | 2082 N US Hwy 183
Rabbit Hole Leander | 13920 Ronald Reagan Blvd
Conejos Tex-Mex | 2082 N US Hwy 183
Make your night an adventure at Conejos Tex-Mex Cantina and Rabbit Hole
Neighborhood Bar
Spring Into Summer with Genuine Iced Tea
Game On, All Day
Have fun pushing your athletic limits in a state-of-the-art facility, The Crossover
The Crossover is where Greater Austin’s active community comes to train, compete, and connect. With 240,000 square feet dedicated to sports, wellness, and entertainment, this cutting-edge destination brings together the region’s top athletic programs under one roof. For those who love to be out on the ice, Ice & Field offers NHL-regulation rinks to practice your skating or hockey skills. Perhaps you’re interested in training your arm in the climate-controlled baseball and softball training facility, Hitter’s House. World Taekwondo Federation-affiliated martial arts facility HK Taewondo is also here, home to competitors who represent Texas and the United States at large.
And of course, who could forget about how you can unwind with sand volleyball or pickleball at The Fieldhouse at The Crossover?
No matter your age or skill level, you’ll enjoy a day full of activity, inside and out. That was the vision of lead developer Eric Perardi—a vision that has only evolved over the past five years.
“The Crossover has something for everyone… literally,” says Marketing Director Bri Thomas. “It was created to be a one-stop spot for individuals, couples, families, teams, businesses, schools, and beyond to improve themselves and enjoy quality time. From the overall design of the facility and the individual tenants’ spaces to the groups of people that travel from all over the world to visit, there is no shortage of content and fun!”
Despite the high-level training offered, it’s not just about playing harder. It’s about living better, surrounded by a community that encourages you to show up as your strongest self.
“The venue for me has such a vast, diverse setting of experiences from multiple different sports, concerts, outdoor relaxation, and events,” says photographer Aaron Cash. “It’s a capstone in the area where families can watch their young athletes evolve into future leaders.”
Find out more about how you can train alongside fellow athletes when you visit crossovertx.com or 1717 Scottsdale Dr, Leander.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRI THOMAS, AARON CASH, CROSSOVER
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.
THE SLEEP SOLUTION STARTS HERE
Dr. Martin Denbar doesn’t just treat patients—he saves lives. A pioneer in the field of dental sleep medicine, Denbar has spent decades on the front lines of innovation, education, and compassionate care. With more than 6,000 patients treated in Central Texas alone, his work has offered hope and healing to people who had nowhere else to turn.
A proud Houston native, Denbar earned his doctorate at the University of Texas School of Dentistry before joining the U.S. Navy Dental Corps and serving as a battalion dentist with the Marines, driven by his sense of duty for his country. After being discharged, he settled into a career of private practice. But everything changed when his wife inspired him to look into sleep apnea.
“She told me, ‘Honey, you’re snoring like the Northern Pacific. Did you stop breathing? You scared me half to death. Fix it,’” says Denbar. “So, I started researching the field and got into it in February 1995. With one other dentist here in Texas who is ex-Air Force, we brought the whole field here.”
Denbar went on to become a Diplomate with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and helped write the organization’s first board examination. He initially integrated dental sleep medicine into his dentistry practice, but about 12 years ago, he made the shift to focus on it exclusively.
Now, he’s a non-principal faculty member at Texas A&M School of Medicine, has lectured for the sleep fellowship program at UT Southwestern Medical Center, and has published works internationally while continuing to develop effective treatment protocols.
“At first, I was considered a nut. I was an alternative dentist,” says Denbar. “Of course, now it’s all mainstream, and that’s a lot of school of hard knocks. But it’s been fun and I look back at the whole scenario with a smile.”
A leader in combination therapy, Texas Dental Sleep Services is recognized for its success in treating the “untreatables,” including patients with Parkinson’s disease, cardiac transplants, artificial jaw joints, and ALS. The practice is also fully endorsed by the VFW and the American Legion, with recent outreach to the Navy SEAL Foundation to connect with more veterans.
“It’s very self-fulfilling to take care of patients that nobody else could. It’s been a challenge, and there’s a lot of satisfaction in conquering those challenges,” says Denbar. “You’re actually changing lives.”
Discover what sleep apnea treatment can do for you at: texasdentalsleepservices.com
JUNE 7TH
Old Town Street Festival with Leander Chamber
100 N Brushy St, Leander, TX 78641 | 10:00 AM
The annual Old Town Street Festival is back in Leander’s Historic Old Town District! Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of the summer with live performances throughout the day. The festival will kick off with a 5K, and then you can experience local vendor booths, wineries and breweries, and plenty of rides and games. Hang out until 10 PM. oldtownleander.com
JUNE 14TH
Leander Public Arts and Culture Commission’s Juneteenth Block Party
601 S Bagdad, Leander, TX 78641 | 5:00 PM
The City of Leander is commemorating Juneteenth with a family-friendly block party at Robin Bledsoe Park. This year’s theme is Still We Rise: Strength, Spirit, and Solidarity. Come out for fun event activities, including a musical performance by Soulful Soundz Party Band, food trucks, craft vendors, and bounce houses. Perfect Tyman will also be hosting a basketball tournament. leandertx.gov
PRESCHOOL
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.
Call today to schedule your tour and catch our vision! firstfoundations.com | 512.249.7529
11902 Anderson Mill Rd B firstfoundationspreschool
