Health & Wellness
FOOD + BEVERAGE
UNPACKING HIDDEN FOOD TOXINS
LIFE + CULTURE
DITCH THE RESOLUTIONS
DIGITAL SAFETY WELLNESS
3 BENEFITS FOR KID’S MENTAL HEALTH
Life Lessons
Learning how to become a good human takes a village . Re-enforce what’s taught at home. Manners and Respect are the foundation to a great martial artist.
Discipline
Imagine your kid doing homework and chores on their own without being told. Helping parents build discipline habits in and outside the dojo is our goal.
Respect
Immerse them in an environment that teaches why and how to take care of yourself and others. Give them ways to prac tice Self-Care.
Start the new year looking and feeling your best! Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, reunion, or simply want to invest in yourself, now is the perfect time to begin your transformation journey.
Y o u r G o a l s
At Saxon MD we offer a variety of non-invasive and surgical treatments to help you achieve your dream look:
Body Contouring with Emsculpt NEO
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Facial Enhancements including PRF, lip lifts, and more
There’s no better time to invest in yourself. Book your consultation today! C u s t o
B o o k Y o u r C o n s u l t a t i o n T o d a y
Take the first step toward a more confident you. Our expert team will create a personalized plan tailored to your goals. Don’t wait secure your consultation now and be ready for whatever 2025 has in store!
Offering a Variety of Treatments & Services
Body Treatments
Morpheus8, Microneedling, IPL, Dermal Fillers, Neurotoxins, Face & Neck Lifts, Lip Lifts, Rhinoplasty, Blepharoplasty, Jawline Slimming, and now Non-Invasive
Across From Belterra Neighborhood
TAKING CHIROPRACTIC CARE TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Dr. Eberle and his team are the only Advanced Certified Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) practitioners in Texas. CBP is the most evidence-based approach in the profession and stands at the leading edge of chiropractic advancement.
Jon Eberle, DC SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Technology
- Significantly Reduces Acute And Chronic Pain
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- Turns On The Body’s Natural Healing Processes
- Non-Invasive
Home For Holidays
At Haus Collective ATX, we believe your home should reflect the unique spirit of your family, just as no holiday gathering is ever the same Our designs go beyond aesthetics it's about crafting functional spaces with heart and purpose, made for every memory, big or small
Because your home should be as special as the moments shared within it
Our 2025 calendar is now open - book your project today!
Imagine a home designed to enhance your health, support your lifestyle, and bring balance to your daily routine. We specialize in designing custom homes that prioritize your well-being. Because your home should be more than a place to live-it should be a place to thrive.
We can build on your lot, as well as neighborhoods such as: MESA VERDE • CALITERRA • MEDLIN CREEK • SPANISH OAKS • BELVEDERE DRIFTWOOD VALLEY ESTATES • CREEK ROAD RANCH • AND MORE Welcome Home, The Alkires
Move It, 2025
Welcome to 2025, Dripping Springs! So, where are the flying cars and robot maids we once imagined would define the future? While they might still be on the drawing board, perhaps Cybertrucks and AI are the modern-day realities echoing those futuristic dreams we once had.
As our team brainstormed topics for this month's issue, I had a profound “ah-ha” moment. Health and wellness aren’t just trends—they’re the foundations of a happy, fulfilling life. We’re meant to move our bodies, connect with nature, and nourish ourselves with foods straight from the earth, untouched by human manipulation. When we neglect these essentials, health challenges often follow. But when we embrace them, life feels more vibrant, positive, and full of gratitude.
For me, wellness isn’t just about food; it’s also deeply tied to movement. As a former collegiate athlete, my connection to movement once meant grueling drills, early-morning practices, (with the occasional volleyball being spiked at me for being late), and chasing personal bests. Those days are behind me now, but the joy of staying active remains a constant in my life.
These days, movement looks a little different. It’s playing kickball with my boys in the yard, lifting paint cans for home DIY projects, or holding my 8-pound camera during a photoshoot. You might not have time for a structured workout or a gym membership, but one thing we all have access to, free of excuses and free of charge, is the great outdoors.
There’s something undeniably restorative about fresh air and sunshine. Whether I’m waiting for a family to arrive at a photoshoot or walking laps during one of my kids’ practices, nature reminds me to slow down, breathe deeply, and stay present.
In this issue, we explore a variety of ways to embrace health and wellness. You’ll hear from doctors working to revolutionize the healthcare industry, discover the benefits of red light and salt therapy, learn about our local farmers market, and read personal stories of overcoming illness and finding balance.
Health and wellness aren’t about perfection or reaching a specific milestone; they’re about living fully and mindfully. So, get out there, Dripping Springs, and move!
KRISTEN HAFNER, EDITOR @DRIPPINGSPRINGSCITYLIFESTYLE
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Will Rivera | will.rivera@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Karen Rivera | karen.rivera@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kristen Hafner | kristen.hafner@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Abigail Thomsen | abigail.thomsen@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER
Annie O'Brien | annie.obrien@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Melissa Svoboda | melissa.svoboda@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Molly Maller | molly.maller@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lauren Hutson, M.D., Paul Lyngso, Carolann Magnani, Sarah Taunton Marino, M.D., Nelson Nathaniel Jr., Joseph Scaramucci, Kathleen Stinson, M.D., Melissa Svoboda, Abigail Thomsen, Chae Tracy, D.C., Micah Wiener, Allison Woodward
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kelly Colson, Sean Franklin, Kristen Hafner, Abigail Thomsen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Monkee’s of Dripping Springs Grand Opening 2: High Desert Cactus Vodka founders Logan and Ryan 3: Attendees at The Club at Horseshoe Bay’s Summit Italian Night 4: Black Belts from Austin Karate Center celebrate their induction into the USMAA Hall of Fame 5: Families enjoying Fitzhugh Brewing’s 4th anniversary celebration 6: Books, Brews, and Goats event hosted at the Dripping Springs Community Library. 7: Burke Center for Youth boys participated in a 4H program working with goats.
business monthly
Longhorn Mobile Detail Hiring
Longhorn Mobile Detailing is looking for a new team member who shares its values for community and top-notch service. Send resume to longhornmobiledetailing@gmail.com
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Whiskey Ridge Restaurant Now Open
Now open in Driftwood, Whiskey Ridge specializes in Texas meats, coastal favorites, and rare whiskeys served against a beautiful Hill Country backdrop. Whiskey Ridge is committed to sourcing its food and drink from local Texans as much as possible. WhiskeyRidgeTX.com
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Austin Skyline Volleyball Coming Soon
The popular Austin volleyball club is set to open a brand-new training facility in Dripping Springs in early 2025. This locale will host camps, clinics, small group training, and other volleyball programs. AustinSkylineJuniorsVolleyball.com
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Photography by @Abigailphotog
Photography by @emgracehussey
Photography by Eric Weigand Photography
Mean-Eyed Cat Bar Opens Second Location
Mean-Eyed Cat hosted a grand opening in November at its Driftwood location. The iconic Austin bar chain is a rustic, Johnny Cash-obsessed establishment proud to grow its fan base. TheMeanEyedCat.com
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Patriots’ Hall Serves Local Veterans
Patriots’ Hall of Dripping Springs opened in October and is now faithfully providing in-person support to veterans and their families through workshops, events, and more. PatriotsHall.org
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Destination Dripping Springs Hiring
Destination Dripping Springs seeks a tourism marketing coordinator to create content and help with events that will make our beloved city shine. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who loves all things local. CityOfDrippingSprings.com
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Photography by Anne Ousey
Photography by DJ Spry
Photography by Guthrie.atx
Your Dripping Springs Luxury Expert
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We highly recommend Kim Burke. We went with her after being with another agent for 9 months with no offers. She expertly guided us through the process to stage and list our home. We received a full price offer in a very difficult market after being listed for only a few months with her. She skillfully advised us through a challenging contract negotiation and closing as well. We would highly recommend Kim to anyone looking to buy or sell a home!
LOCAL. LUXURY.
When you want a home in Dripping Springs, but a backyard on the Mayan Riviera.
As one of Dripping Springs’ most respected pool builders, we’re proud to say we can deliver on any project, from resort-style pools to spas and cabanas. Most importantly, we stick to schedule and budget so you can have peace of mind that the backyard oasis of your dreams is completed perfectly, on time and on budget. Our quality and craftsmanship has earned us a reputation in the community for consistency and professionalism. The result? Some of the most spectacular backyards the Hill Country (or the Caribbean) has ever seen. Call us today and let’s get started on yours.
burning the candle of wellness
Wellness: It’s something we all strive for, yet few of us truly understand what it means or how to achieve it. Too often, we equate health with symptom-free living or rely on quick fixes like medication or supplements to “feel better.” But true wellness is about much more than treating symptoms; it’s about creating a life where your body, mind, and emotions work together in harmony, allowing you to thrive.
Think of your health like a candle lit at birth, burning steadily throughout your life. Each flicker represents the challenges your body overcomes, from fighting off germs to adapting to life’s stresses. When we focus on prevention and healing rather than masking symptoms, we help that candle burn brighter and longer, ensuring a vibrant and fulfilling life.
As a society, we’ve been conditioned to think that health comes in the form of pills, herbs, or procedures. When a symptom appears—a runny nose, sleeplessness, or low energy—we rush to fix it rather than asking why it’s there in the first place. Treating illness this way is like placing a band-aid over a wound without addressing the cause.
ARTICLE BY CHAE TRACY, D.C.
True wellness begins with supporting your body’s natural ability to heal itself. This means adopting habits that help your body function optimally: nourishing it with whole, nutrient-dense foods, getting regular movement, managing stress, and ensuring quality sleep. Health isn’t just the absence of symptoms; it’s your body’s ability to adapt and respond to its environment. When your immune system neutralizes a virus without you even realizing it, that is health.
Whether you’re looking to recover from an illness, boost energy, or support your body’s natural functions, Regenerate offers targeted treatments for quick and effective relief—including chiropractic care, IV vitamin infusions, and massage—helping you feel revitalized and ready to take on the day.
BOOST YOUR IMMUNE HEALTH WITH CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Did you know that your spine plays a critical role in overall health, including your immune system? Between each vertebra in your spine, nerves emerge to send vital signals throughout your body. When vertebrae become misaligned—a condition known as vertebral subluxation— these nerves can be affected, potentially disrupting body functions, including immunity.
Chiropractic care offers a natural way to address these misalignments. Chiropractors use gentle, precise techniques, known as adjustments, to restore proper spinal alignment and improve nerve function, thereby improving whole body health and wellness.
REVITALIZE YOUR HEALTH WITH IV VITAMIN INFUSIONS
In today’s fast-paced world, many of us struggle with nutrient depletion due to stress, poor diet, or environmental factors. Fortunately, IV vitamin infusions and intramuscular shots offer a powerful way to replenish essential nutrients and boost overall wellness.
A wide range of vitamin therapies exist that can be tailored to meet your needs, whether you’re wanting to enhance athletic recovery or support your immune system during cold and flu season. At Regenerate, some of our most popular options include the Super Myers Cocktail for overall health, B12 and vitamin B complex for energy, lipotropic (MIC) + B12 for fat metabolism, and vitamin D for bone health.
Other standout therapies include glutathione (a potent antioxidant), NAD+ for energy and anti-aging, alpha-lipoic acid for detox, and high-dose vitamin C for immune support. There are also options for migraine recovery, hydration, and athletic recovery to help you feel your best, faster.
RECOVER AND REFRESH WITH MOVEMENT AND MASSAGE
Movement is also medicine. A short walk outdoors can boost your immune system, increase feel-good hormones, and combat the winter blues. Even gentle activity, like stretching or yoga, can make a difference when you’re feeling under the weather. Pair this with a balanced diet of fresh, local foods, plenty of hydration, and restorative sleep, and you’re giving your body the tools it needs to thrive.
At Regenerate, our licensed massage therapist specializes in a form of medical massage that we refer to as bodywork, which combines different modalities and techniques to address the root causes of pain. While one session may not eliminate all discomfort, it will show that relief is possible.
Bodywork, along with lifestyle choices and movement, helps reduce pain, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion, allowing you to move freely and enjoy life.
Wellness isn’t about chasing the next supplement trend or quick fix; it’s about creating a life that supports your body’s natural processes. It involves addressing the root causes of your symptoms and making choices that promote healing and vitality. Whether it’s spending time outdoors, connecting with loved ones, or nourishing your body with wholesome food, these small steps can have a profound impact on your health.
Let your candle burn brightly, not by avoiding illness, but by building the habits and resilience that allow you to live the life of your dreams. Wellness is not something you find in a pill—it’s something you create every day.
NaturalHealingTX.com | @naturalhealtingtx
Photo by: Kristen Hafner
Family owned and operated for 11 years, we are thrilled to open a location in the community we live in and love. We take a personal interest in every patient who walks through our doors, treating them with the same care and attention we would want for our own children. Our smaller, community-focused approach enables us to get to know our patients and their families on a deeper level, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels like part of the family. 13341 US-290, Austin, Texas 78737 | 512.953.1188 | myaustinpediatricdentist.com
DITCH THE RESOLUTIONS
A Smarter Path to Lasting Change
ARTICLE BY PAUL LYNGSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HAFNER
Every year, millions of people dive into January with big dreams and bigger resolutions. By February, most of those resolutions are abandoned, leaving people feeling like they’ve failed. Sound familiar?
If you want real, lasting change, you don’t need a fresh start every January—you need a better approach.
The truth is, resolutions don’t fail because you’re not disciplined or motivated. They fail because they’re built on a flawed framework. If you want real, lasting change, you don’t need a fresh start every January—you need a better approach.
WHY RESOLUTIONS DON’T WORK
Most resolutions are outcome-focused: Lose 20 pounds. Run a marathon. Save $10,000. These goals sound great on paper, but they ignore the daily actions and systems required to get there.
Here’s the problem: Resolutions rely on perfection. They demand you show up at 100 percent every day, and when life throws a curveball, like a hectic work day or a sick kid, you miss the mark. If you miss it enough times, the all-or-nothing mindset kicks in. Suddenly, the goal feels out of reach, and you give up.
For example, let’s say your resolution is to go to the gym five days a week. The first week, you crush it. The second week, a couple of late nights at work derail you. By the third week, you’ve stopped altogether, telling yourself you’ll “start fresh next Monday.”
This isn’t a motivation issue; it’s a system issue. Resolutions focus on what you want to achieve, not who you need to become or how to make success inevitable. That’s why we need a better framework.
A SMARTER FRAMEWORK FOR LASTING CHANGE
If you’re serious about making a change, the answer isn’t in chasing outcomes. It’s in building habits that align with your identity. Real change happens when you focus on becoming the kind of person who achieves those goals naturally.
Step 1: Focus on identity, not outcomes
Don’t set a goal to “lose weight.” Instead, decide to “become a healthy person.” When you identify as someone who values their health, every decision you make starts to align with that identity.
This isn’t about faking it or forcing it. It’s about asking, “What does the next-level version of myself do?” Do they skip breakfast, or do they take five minutes to grab something nourishing? Do they scroll their phone all morning, or do they start their day with movement?
When your actions reflect your identity, progress follows naturally.
Step 2: Start small and build momentum
Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, the smaller the habit, the more likely it is to stick. Instead of promising yourself an hour at the gym every day, start with 10 minutes of movement. Instead of swearing off sugar, focus on drinking more water or eating more protein at each meal.
Small wins compound over time. They build confidence and create a sense of progress without the pressure of being perfect.
Step 3: Build systems, not willpower
Here’s a hard truth: Willpower will only get you so far. The real key is building systems that make success easier. Lay out your workout clothes the night before. Schedule time on your calendar for movement or meal prep. Keep your environment stocked with healthy options so you’re not tempted by junk food.
Think of systems as the scaffolding for your goals. They make the path forward clear, even on the days you’re tired, stressed, or unmotivated.
Start with one small habit that aligns with that identity. Keep it simple. Keep it doable. And give yourself grace when life doesn’t go as planned.
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
Here’s an example of how this framework might play out. Someone sets a goal every year to lose 20 pounds but finds themselves giving up after a few weeks. Instead of focusing on the outcome, they shift to building habits that align with living a healthier lifestyle.
They might start by walking for 10 minutes a day, focusing on consistency rather than intensity. Once that habit feels natural, they add another layer, like strength training once a week. They could also decide to cook dinner at home three nights a week to make healthier food choices more accessible.
The progress might feel slow initially, but the changes are sustainable and compound over time. By the end of the year, they achieve not only the weight loss but also greater
confidence, energy, and a lifestyle that supports ongoing success.
THIS YEAR, SKIP THE RESOLUTIONS
If you’re tired of the resolution cycle, it’s time to try something new. This January, don’t ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve?” Instead, ask, “Who do I want to become?”
Start with one small habit that aligns with that identity. Keep it simple. Keep it doable. And give yourself grace when life doesn’t go as planned. Change isn’t about big, sweeping declarations. It’s about consistent action over time. This year, let’s leave the resolutions behind and focus on becoming the kind of person who doesn’t need them anymore. What’s the first step you’ll take today?
LyngsoFit.com
Ecoland,
ARTICLE BY MASTER NELSON NATHANIEL JR.
Lessons in Life Longevity
The Okinawan Approach to Wellness, Purpose, and Community Connection
What’s the secret to a long and healthy life? In Okinawa, there is no secret. It’s a way of life that connects body, mind, and spirit and likely contributes to their average life expectancy of 91 years. Okinawa is known as a blue zone—a place where people live extraordinarily long lives—and has more centenarians per capita than any other area in the world. Once a person reaches the age of 100, they are considered a national treasure.
The Okinawan way of life blends physical activity, mindful eating, stress management, gratitude, and a strong sense of community for a beautiful lifestyle that fosters not only longevity but a fulfilling life at any age.
To care for the body, in Okinawa two themes emerge: everyday activity and good eating habits. When people retire, they choose a physical hobby, within their ability, to pursue. It is very common for families to have gardens that they tend to daily, allowing them a multipurpose practice that offers many health benefits.
In addition to the exercise gardening provides, keeping a garden gives Okinawans access to healthy food in its freshest form. Purple sweet potatoes are the most common food consumed on the island. Okinawans also value fruits and herbs for their healing properties. From a young age, they learn the concept of “hara hachi bu,” a Japanese phrase that means to eat until they are 80 percent full.
For the mind, stress-relieving practices are important for mental health. In Okinawa, it is common to use breathing practices and relaxation techniques to manage stress effectively. In 1901, martial arts was introduced to public schools,
teaching children to make the mind more powerful by harnessing discipline.
Okinawans also cultivate gratitude daily, finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Ultimately understanding that tomorrow isn’t promised, they strive to make every moment and every choice count, as they are a small piece to the bigger picture of life.
Community is their elixir to the spirit. In Okinawa, it is common to be part of the same community for over 50 years. The Japanese term “moai” means “meeting for a common purpose” and refers to a group of lifelong friends that starts in childhood and extends into old age. Building and nurturing long-term bonds, these social support groups connect people to share advice, help one another, and experience life together.
In your journey to longevity, consider including some of these practices in your everyday routine. The concept of community and caring is alive here in the Dripping Springs area—you can find all of the resources to find your tribe right here in this magazine. I look forward to becoming national treasures with you all.
DIGITAL SAFETY wellness
TOOLS TO PROTECT KIDS IN THE ONLINE WORLD
ARTICLE BY JOSEPH SCARAMUCCI
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and this global issue affects millions of children, teens, and adults. Parents must understand that human trafficking is not a distant problem; it is right here in our communities. Predators use social media, online games, and chat rooms to target vulnerable youth, often without their knowledge.
Sadly, children are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking. Predators often prey on kids who feel isolated or are seeking attention online; anonymous traffickers may pose as friends or romantic interests, slowly gaining the child’s trust before manipulating or coercing them into dangerous situations.
1. COMMUNICATE
Have open conversations with your child about the risks of online interactions. Teach them to recognize red flags, such as strangers asking for personal information, making inappropriate comments, or trying to move conversations to other platforms. Visit MissingKids.org/Netsmartz for online training.
Foster a relationship where your child feels comfortable talking to you about online interactions that make them feel uncomfortable.
Stress the importance of keeping personal information private, including addresses, phone numbers, school details, and pictures containing this information.
Teach your child to think critically about the people they meet online and question the motives of anyone who seems overly interested in their personal life or pressures them into meeting in person.
2. SET CLEAR BOUNDARIES
Establish which websites, apps, and games your child can use. While respecting your child's privacy is important, monitoring their online activity is also necessary. Check out their apps, online posts, and the people they interact with. Parental control apps can help.
3. WATCH FOR CHANGES IN BEHAVIOR
Traffickers often manipulate victims into becoming withdrawn or secretive. Pay attention to sudden changes in your child's behavior, such as a reluctance to share details about online interactions or declining social or school performance. Keeping kids safe online requires vigilance, education, and initiative. Let’s ensure a safer online experience for our children.
Author: Detective Joseph Scaramucci (RET) has worked in law enforcement for over 20 years with the McLennan County Sheriff’s Office. Scaramucci has conducted hundreds of sting operations resulting in trafficker arrests and victim rescues domestically and internationally.
SkullGames.org
STEPS TO KEEP YOUR KIDS safe online
LIVE WELL FROM THE GROUND UP
STRONG ROOTS APPROACHES CUSTOM HOME BUILDING DIFFERENTLY.
With the goal of integrating thoughtful elements into your living space, we help you create environments that impact your family’s health for the better. Whether it’s breathing easier with advanced air monitoring and filtration, securing safe and delicious water, or smart home automation that anticipates your needs, we are here. If it’s as simple as a garden to grow your food or spaces flooded with natural light, we live in the details that make life better for you.
Build more than a house. Build a healthier way of living.
May you have a year of new challenges, accomplishment and revitalization.
The Future of Healthcare
BUILDING A PRACTICE WHERE PATIENTS ARE MORE THAN PRESCRIPTIONS
ARTICLE BY LAUREN HUTSON, M.D.
As a doctor, I spent many years working in the trenches of the hospital, including two intense years navigating the coronavirus pandemic. I vividly remember patients dying on ventilators all alone, and then having to break that devastating news to families over the phone or via iPad. I wasn’t prepared for the heart-wrenching reactions of people learning that their loved one was alone when they took their last breath.
Even with our best efforts, it seemed that patients just weren’t getting better, and I saw firsthand how the healthcare system fails to meet the true needs of patients on a preventative level. Losing more than half of my patients in the hospital during this time was heartbreaking, but it underscored the urgent need to move beyond crisis management and toward proactive, individualized care.
In the United States, our healthcare system is built upon reacting to illness rather than preventing it. Despite significant advancements in screenings, medications, and technology, we continue to see stagnant, or even worsening, health outcomes. U.S. mortality rates remain high, and the country lags behind many other developed nations in overall health metrics. Despite investing billions in research and state-of-the-art treatments, cancer rates continue to rise. This isn’t due to a lack of knowledge or resources; it points to a healthcare system that isn’t focused on the most important thing—keeping people healthy before they get sick.
I’m passionate about changing the narrative and providing healthcare that focuses on prevention and the root causes of disease, helping people truly optimize their health rather than just reacting to problems once they arise. I founded Austin Medicine because I deeply believe in a more personalized, compassionate, and preventative approach to healthcare. The relationship you have with your doctor should be lifelong.
Too many doctors are forced to see patients for just a few minutes, once or twice a year. I want to do better. I want to take the time to really listen to you, to understand your unique health story, and to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs through all phases of adult life.
Instead of offering quick fixes or relying solely on prescriptions, I take a deeper, more holistic approach. This is about making real changes to your health so you feel better, faster. It’s about building a long-term partnership where we tackle health from the inside out.
I’m originally from Austin, and this is home. My husband and I decided to settle here and invest in our community, not just as residents but as active participants, creating a healthier, happier place for everyone. Austin Medicine isn’t just a practice; it’s a movement. It’s about helping people take control of their health, empowering them to live their best lives, and creating a healthier future for all of us.
We’re incredibly excited to continue building Austin Medicine and to partner with our community on this journey to better health. Together, we can create lasting change and transform the way we think about healthcare, one patient at a time.
AustinMedicineClinic.com | @austin.medicine
SETTING THE STAGE FOR A HEALTHY FUTURE
DSHS Theatre Conditioning Program Builds Resilience On and Off the Stage
ARTICLE BY CAROLANN MAGNANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HAFNER
ACT I
Scene 1
The auditorium stage, Dripping Springs High School. Day.
A handful of somewhat bleary-eyed but enthusiastic theatre STUDENTS gather in front of BECKY SAGEN, a fit, 40-something, local athletic trainer with a shock of magenta hair and black glasses. She smiles while greeting the teens who have arrived at school an hour early to attend a session of a new theatre conditioning program, the brainchild of DSHS theatre director COY BRANSCUM.
“I was inspired by the work being done by other programs in the DSHS fine arts department, specifically band,” says Coy, a 2011 DSHS graduate in his second year of teaching at the campus. “The rigor and dedication the band students put into their work make them not just stellar musicians, but strong, resilient individuals as well. I wanted to create our own form of this for our theatre students, especially those wishing to pursue a career in the arts,” Coy says of the thrice weekly conditioning classes he launched in September.
At that point, he had been training with Sagen at CrossFit Second Wave in Dripping Springs for about six months to resolve some physical issues he had developed after almost two decades
in theatre. “I came to Becky with pretty standard challenges for performers: creaky knees, weak ankles, and a strength imbalance caused from years of favoring turning on one side over the other,” says Coy. “It turned out to be one of those serendipitous choices that led to me finding an awesome trainer, a happier, healthier lifestyle, and—most importantly—a friend who I get to share with my students.”
This morning, as Sagen leads the students through a variety of exercises, including Bulgarian split squats, handstand holds, and oblique V-ups, she explains the focus is on building their strength, teaching them proper technique, and developing their endurance so they might avoid injuries common among theatre professionals.
Opposite Left Top: Director Coy Branscum warming up the 2023 cast of “Mamma Mia!” Photo by: Darcy McGillicuddy
“BECAUSE OF THIS EXPERIENCE, I’VE SEEN THEM GROW STRONGER PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY. I HOPE THEY SEE THAT AND ARE AS PROUD OF THEMSELVES AS I AM.”
“These kids are really crushing it!” says Sagen, a level 3 certified CrossFit trainer. “They’re so much stronger and doing things so much more easily than when they started,” she adds, pointing to the students executing an impressive row of handstands against the stage wall. “I like to remind them of how much progress they’ve made.”
“This has been really great because I don’t do sports,” says Evan Bergeron, a sophomore who has acted in a number of DSHS productions, including “Mamma Mia!,” “Mean Girls,” and “The Comedy of Errors.”
“The Comedy of Errors” had a lot of physicality in it, and Sagen says the students asked her to teach them some tumbling to help them do it effectively and properly, so they could make it look realistic without hurting themselves.
“The program has helped me gain more control over my body,” says freshman Anna Ardolino, who is part of the ensemble in the department’s musical, “Footloose,” running January 23 through 27 at the DSHS auditorium.
Ardolino’s “Footloose” castmate, Maddi Hooks, says the conditioning program has helped her endurance. “When I was in ‘Comedy of Errors,’ which is a farce, I was able to do more with my character because I had the energy to,” says Hooks, a senior planning to pursue film and television acting in college. Now, Hooks plays
the role of Wendy Jo in this month’s performance of “Footloose.”
Based on the 1984 film, the musical follows a rebellious high school student who moves from the big city to a small town where dancing and rock music have been banned by community leader Reverend Shaw, a role played by Coy during his senior year at DSHS. “To be doing this show again, nearly 15 years later on the same stage, feels very full circle to me,” Coy says.
“‘Footloose’ is about grief, and a community learning to come together so they can heal and move forward. It’s really
something special, and you can tell the students feel the same way,” adds Coy, who says he’s thrilled to share it with the Dripping Springs Community again. “The passion and hard work they’re putting into this show will blow people away!”
Coy says he hopes the students walk away from this program with a sense of how resilient they are. “I’ve seen these students show up consistently, regardless of what was going on in their lives. Because of this experience, I’ve seen them grow stronger physically and mentally. I hope they see that and are as proud of themselves as I am.” The conditioning program has a future, he says. “It may adapt and evolve, but it’s here to stay.”
DSTheatre.org | @dshstheatr
Left : 2023 Production of “Mamma Mia!”
Photo by: Darcy McGillicuddy
Q & A Unpacking Hidden Food Toxins
WHAT DOES “ORGANIC” REALLY MEAN?
In general, organic means that food producers rely on natural substances and physical, mechanical, and biologically-based farming to the fullest extent possible. It means that ingredients cannot be genetically modified (non-GMO). Any chemical, fertilizer, or supplement used to grow food must be on the USDA’s National List of Allowed Substances for organic production criteria.
Q&A—Dripping Springs Doctor Explains Dietary Hazards
ARTICLE BY SARAH TAUNTON MARINO, M.D.
Sarah Taunton Marino, M.D.
Marino Medica
For organic meat, animals must be raised in living conditions that accommodate their natural behavior, fed 100-percent organic food/forage, and receive no antibiotics or hormones.
For produce, no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers can be used. Plant products can be called organic when they are certified to have grown in soil that has had no prohibited substances for the past three years.
Criteria for processed foods include being free from artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, and nearly all ingredients must be organic (minor exceptions exist,
such as baking soda in baked goods). At least 95 percent of the ingredients must meet these requirements to bear the USDA organic label. The 5 percent of non-organic ingredients must still be on the national list of non-organic substances allowed in organic foods, such as salt.
Furthermore, there are handling and processing requirements to protect organic products from contamination with non-organic items. Organic is the most heavily regulated food system in the United States, and becoming certified as organic is an extremely rigorous process.
These ultra-processed foods did not even exist just a few generations ago, yet they have largely replaced our natural diet.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE ULTRAPROCESSED FOODS (UPFS) AND WHY DO THEY MATTER?
The three most dangerous and toxic ingredients that make up UPFs are refined industrial seed oils, refined added sugars, and ultra-processed grains. These foods did not even exist just a few generations ago, yet they have largely replaced our natural diet of meat, fish, eggs, organic dairy, and whole vegetables and fruits. UPFs now make up the vast majority of the calories Americans eat. Other UPFs include sodas, candy, and mass-produced breads and pastries.
UPFs hurt our bodies at the cellular level and can lead to metabolic dysfunction, obesity, heart disease, hormone disruption (including thyroid), inflammation, and immune system compromise. It’s becoming more widely accepted that even Alzheimer’s disease is a disease of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. Currently over half of Americans have diabetes or prediabetes (also known as insulin resistance or metabolic dysfunction), and 25 percent of teens are prediabetic. UPFs are largely the culprit.
TO AVOID UPFS, WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR ON THE LABEL?
Think “boxes and bags with barcodes”: These foods are usually made up of UPFs.
• Refined seed oils include canola, soybean, peanut, sunflower/safflower, and grapeseed. The oils (fats) we should be eating include grassfed butter/ghee and what we call the “ancient fruit” oils, including olive, avocado, and coconut.
• Ultra-processed grain is simply “flour.” Refined flour has little to no nutrient value; the nutritious pieces of whole grains (the bran and the germ) are decimated in the process of making flour, creating a nutrient-empty, calorie-heavy ingredient that spikes blood sugar and insulin levels far worse than whole grains.
• Refined added sugar is just that—sugar. A hundred years ago, humans consumed an average of two tablespoons of sugar per day (primarily derived from berries or honey). Today, the average person consumes 25 tablespoons of refined sugar every day. If one of the first few ingredients on a food label is sugar, avoid it.
WHAT ABOUT ARTIFICIAL FOOD DYES?
Food dyes are made from synthetic chemicals that make our food look pretty. But these chemicals, like Red 40, Blue 1 and 2, and Yellow 5, can affect our health. Research has linked these dyes to health issues like hyperactivity, allergies, and even hormone disruption. Many of these chemicals are banned in other countries but pervasive in U.S. foods, especially foods offered to kids.
The biggest culprits offering these dyes to Americans are snack foods like Cheetos, cereals like Froot Loops, and candies like M&Ms. These dyes are even present in some non-prescription medications. Take every effort to consume dye-free foods to protect your family’s hormonal, neurocognitive, and gut health.
ANY OTHER HIDDEN TOXINS WE SHOULD BE WARY OF?
One of the most harmful toxins ubiquitous in our society is microplastic.
It’s estimated that Americans consume up to five grams of microplastics per week— that’s about the size of a credit card. The chemicals that plastic secretes, BPA and phthalates, are hormone-disrupting chemicals that can interfere with metabolic health and even reproductive health.
One way these chemicals can disrupt natural hormone pathways is by mimicking estrogens, promoting obesity and possibly hurting fertility. Studies show that microplastics can accumulate in the reproductive organs, decreasing sperm count in men and compromising egg quantity in the ovaries of women. They can also upregulate fat cells’ capacity to store more fat and create more fat cells overall.
Ideas for minimizing your exposure to microplastics include drinking from stainless steel water bottles, heating foods in glass or paper plates, and ensuring the soaps and detergents you use are BPA and phthalate-free.
MarinoMedica.com | @marinomedica
ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HAFNER
A FAMILY’S UNWAVERING FAITH IN THE FACE OF CANCER
MOVING MOUNTAINS
Mark 11:23 reads, “Whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him.”
lunches to Ava and Adley every day, and neighbors assembled bunk beds so the girls could sleep in the same room. Brit’s sisters were available at all hours of the night for support, and her parents moved to Dripping Springs from out of
“HAVING PEOPLE AROUND YOU TO LIFT YOU UP IS CRUCIAL.”
Jon and Brit Schoff came face to face with their mountain in September 2023 as they sat across from a doctor who told them Jon had stage 4 mantle cell lymphoma, an aggressive type of blood cancer. With this alarming news, “our world came to a screeching halt,” says Brit, as she, Jon, and their daughters Ava and Adley began a 12-month journey that would prove the power of community, family, nutrition, and— above all else—faith.
From day one, the Schoffs’ family, friends, and neighbors rallied behind them. “I didn’t really know what we needed, but our community did.” Brit says. Immediately, people began flowing in to their home to pray and lay hands on Jon. “They just showed up,” she says. “That was essentially what kept us breathing.”
“People helped us in ways that I never even realized I needed,” Brit reiterates, noting that on the very night of the diagnosis, her best friend decorated the front porch and prayed over the Schoffs’ home, then jumped in to set up meal trains, care for their children, and organize other helpers. Moms from the elementary school packed and delivered
state. When Jon was discharged from a long, arduous hospital stay in Houston, his best friend flew in to drive the exhausted couple back home.
Jon points to the support of his community at Life Family Church. “Having people around you to lift you up is crucial,” he shares. “We would not have been able to get through all our hurdles if it was not for our church family. Most people have leaves and branches for friends and family, so when things get hard, they fall away or break from the pressure. Life Family is the roots that support our family and well-being.”
In addition to visitors from their thoughtful community, one unexpected knock on the door came from Hope4Cancer, a holistic cancer treatment program that focuses on the mental and spiritual component of healing as well as comprehensive, advanced therapies. Through Hope4Cancer, Jon learned about the impact of nutrition and became committed to clean eating. Additionally, prior to starting chemotherapy, he spent two weeks in Mexico at a Hope4Cancer center receiving treatments, such as daily IVs and saunas, designed to prepare and strengthen his body.
CONTINUED >
Coupled with the cutting-edge treatment Jon received at MD Anderson and Baylor Scott & White—which included targeted chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and several cycles of high-powered, 24/7 “chemo blasts”—Jon credits Hope4Cancer along with his faith and church community for helping him meet his recovery milestones. “All three of those are providing overall wellness to make me the best possible version of myself to tackle these things,” he says. His fortitude is impressive: Even through his difficult chemo treatments, Jon has continued to work, travel, and even play golf.
Incredibly, after three months of receiving intense chemotherapy, Jon is now in remission. His treatment will continue for the next few years to ensure the cancer does not return, but Jon has complete confidence in his recovery: “We have seen so many miracles happen in the last 12 months by just truly believing, without having a doubt, that it’s possible,” he says. “And that’s why, from a faith perspective, I believe I’m already healed.”
One does not confront—much less conquer—a mountain like cancer and remain unchanged. As Christians, the Schoffs ask what they should learn from their trials. Jon calls these lessons “the blessings of having cancer.”
“I call it the gift of crisis,” Brit offers. “It’s truly a gift that we will never take a day for granted.”
CONTINUED >
“OUR GREATEST GIFT THAT WE HAVE IS TIME.”
Through their difficult days, the Schoffs found themselves looking to God to help them put one foot in front of the other, trusting Him to provide. “To be in that mindset of a daily dependence is the only way to get through life,” Jon says. “I’d never depended on Him like that, so the gift of that alone is something that I wouldn’t want to have missed.”
In addition, Jon and Brit now appreciate the significance of being truly engaged in each moment, prioritizing what is meaningful and maximizing time with their children. “Our greatest gift that we have is time,” Brit shares. “Time is that one thing that you’re not promised, that you can’t buy, but you have full choice over how you spend it.”
Finally, their experience has affirmed the value of a supportive, loving marriage. “Be patient with your husband, give him grace, and love on him,” Brit shares. “My greatest accomplishment in life is this man.”
Jon adds, “That kind of mindset and love for each other is how we’ve been able to get through this the way we have.”
While the mountain may loom large, “leaning into your faith, your community, and your church, and taking care of yourself, being proactive against this world, has allowed us to move forward in this journey, and in life, with positivity and joy,” Jon says. “Our eyes and hearts have been opened up.”
With this, clearly the mountain is moved.
Life.Family.com Hope4Cancer.com
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"Do you not know that your bodie temples of the Holy Spirit, who is you, whom you have received fr God? ... Therefore, honor God w your bodies." (1 Corinthians 6:19-
Sunrise Christian Schoolhouse fosters not only academic and spiritual growth but also supports students' physical development through a dedicated physical education (PE) program. Through PE, students experience the physical and mental benefits of movement while building essential life skills, creating a strong, well-rounded foundation for their overall development.
DRIPPING SPRINGS Farmers Market
Building Community and Freshness
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL THOMSEN
Abigail Thomsen
Abigail Thomsen serves Dripping Springs City Lifestyle as Publication Director and is a wedding and brand photographer. When not storytelling, you can find her sipping coffee at Mazama with friends, globetrotting, or worshipping Jesus at the top of her lungs. Follow her on Instagram @abigailphotog
Established in 2009, the Dripping Springs Farmers Market has grown alongside the community. What began as a small roadside market has blossomed into a hub of 50 farmers, bakers, and makers meeting every Wednesday at Ranch Park from 3 to 6 p.m., rain or shine.
With live music from local talents and a playground nearby, it’s a family-friendly outing where kids can run, play, and meet the farmers who grow their food.
Managers Charlie Reed and Johnna Krantz shared how shopping local is excellent for your health in more ways than one:
1. Environment
Shopping at the farmers market means supporting regenerative agriculture. This method not only improves soil health but also dramatically reduces the environmental footprint.
“One of our market rules is that everything has to be grown or made within 150 miles of Dripping Springs. The farmers here are your neighbors from Creek Road to Bell Springs,” says Krantz. The food here is fresh; it hasn’t spent days in warehouses and box trucks typical of traditional supply chains.
2. Health
Produce at the market is often harvested the day you buy it, so it is ripe, fresh, and full of nutrients. “It changes your definition of what peaches should taste like,” Reed shares. Plus, the farmers use sustainable, often organic, methods, ensuring you’re not consuming harmful chemicals from pesticides or fertilizers.
3. Neighbors
The farmers market fosters community. “One of my favorite things is you’re supporting your neighbors,” Krantz says. Your dollars stay local, supporting small businesses and families right in your backyard.
“Every single one of them is my favorite,” she adds. “They all bring something different. Each one of them brings our passion and creativity, and I love being around that so much. That’s one of the reasons I’m here.”
From bakers to farmers and artists to ranchers, each vendor brings a unique story and passion to the table. Come reconnect with old friends or make new ones!
We are featuring a handful of the local vendors who show up for our community. Sign up for the newsletter to discover more: CityOfDrippingSprings.com/FarmersMarket.
ONION CREEK FARM
Marianne Simmons helped launch the farmers market in 2009 and is still on its managing committee. She runs Onion Creek Farm with Gary Rowland. Offering fresh produce and herbs, Onion Creek Farm started in 1991 as one of the early Texas Department of Agriculture-certified organic farms. @onioncreekfarm
HOPE FULL FARM
Founded in 2021 in Dripping Springs, Hope Full Farm was conceived to address childhood hunger in Central Texas. After three years of intensive regenerative work on the land, this 9-acre farm is a certified organic, sustainable farming ecosystem yielding nutrient-dense produce and benefiting the environment. HopeFullFarm.org
SONGLAND FARMS
Songland Farms was born two years ago when musician Dylan Kongos and his wife bought land in Wimberley to practice regenerative methods. They grow edible flowers, tomatoes, carrots, onions, potatoes, peas, corn, and okra in their market garden, with trees to yield fruit in the future. SonglandFarms.com
MILLWOOD FARMS
Millwood Farms specializes in providing ultra-fresh, locally grown produce. Chris and Sherry Miller moved to family land in 1977 to continue the tradition of growing nutritious vegetables without chemicals or insecticides. By building the soil and rigorously planting cover crops, they have enjoyed almost 50 years of successful growing.
SHIPPS LAKE RANCH
70 years young, Grey Skelley lives in Dripping Springs and ranches in Smithville on land that’s been in her family for 100-plus years. Her ranch features all-natural Angus beef, born and raised on her ranch on organic grasses and a grain-free diet. ShippsLakeRanch.com
TEXAS SASSY BEES
A former executive with Whole Foods, Nona Evans offers a passion for bees and honey and an unparalleled pollinator education, reflected in her market. She and her husband care for more than 60 hives of happy rescue honey bees. TexasSassyBees.com
KEEPING DRIPPING thriving
HOW BRYAN AND KATY KAPUSTINSKI ARE TRANSFORMING HEALTH IN DRIPPING SPRINGS
ARTICLE BY ABIGAIL THOMSEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL THOMSEN & KELLY COLSON
“It feels so good to make people feel great.”
Bryan and Katy Kapustinski, the husband-wife powerhouse behind CrossFit Second Wave and Thriving Springs Wellness, are dedicated to making Dripping Springs whole and healthy again. What they’ve accomplished in their four short years in Drip is just the beginning.
An Army veteran, Bryan has coached CrossFit for over a decade. Obsessed with seeing the transformation that takes place when people take ownership of their health and fitness, he dreamed of having his own gym.
During the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Bryan and Katy took a leap of faith and moved their family, with a toddler and newborn in tow, from New York to Dripping Springs to create their dream life where they could have space for their kids to be outdoors, foster a strong sense community, and open CrossFit Second Wave.
While the gym took off, Katy was frustrated working in conventional medicine. With over 15 years of experience as a physician’s assistant, Katy shared, “I kept seeing people getting sicker and sicker. Modern healthcare was putting a band-aid on chronic, underlying issues instead of addressing the root cause.” She witnessed the lack of real, lasting healing and began pursuing functional medicine certification and education in cellular health, genetics, and longevity.
“YOU CAN INVEST time AND energy NOW INTO YOUR HEALTH LONG TERM OR PAY FOR IT LATER. YOU DON’T REALIZE HOW good YOU CAN FEEL UNTIL YOU FEEL IT— IT’S NEVER TOO LATE.”
“You shouldn’t need to take pills to be healthy. Your body is interconnected. For example, your gut could be controlling your mental health,” Katy explains. She takes a deep dive into your health, examining body scans, bloodwork, and DNA to develop a complete picture and a customized plan—including what to eat and how to exercise—to heal your body. “We’ll understand why this gene is making you feel the way you do and treat your whole body.”
The Dripping Springs community has shown an overwhelming response to Katy’s expertise. This holistic movement and focus on whole-body treatment has exploded, culminating in Katy’s launch of her own space, Thriving Springs Wellness, in November 2024.
The state-of-the-art center is a healing oasis featuring hydrogen water, an ozone sauna, full-body compression, cryotherapy, body scanning, red light therapy, an infrared sauna, a biocharger, IV therapy, and more. From the moment you walk in, a live plant wall welcomes you, along with sound baths, for a thoughtfully designed space that mimics nature.
“You can invest time and energy now into your health long term or pay for it later. You don’t realize how good you can feel until you feel it—it’s never too late,” says Katy. “We’ve confused not being sick with health . No, you can thrive and feel amazing. Fatigue, inflammation, fluctuating hormones, and weight gain shouldn’t be the norm as you age.”
“We’re seeing a shift in health,” Bryan adds. “You were not meant to live this way.” CrossFit Second Wave and Thriving Springs Wellness exist to build muscle and longevity. Their advice to get started when you feel overwhelmed? “Start with cleaning up your diet, exercising, and choosing little wins by eliminating soda, sugar, and
“MODERN
HEALTHCARE WAS PUTTING A band-aid ON CHRONIC, UNDERLYING ISSUES INSTEAD OF ADDRESSING THE root CAUSE.”
seed oils. CrossFit is for everyone—we are a unique community of neighbors dedicated to results, discipline, and showing up,” Bryan encourages.
The Kapustinskis care deeply about their tribe. “Bryan and I are constantly talking about the wins we’re seeing in our community,” Katy says. “It really makes us happy to see lives being changed. Once you understand your DNA, generations are affected. Kids get to have healthy grandparents. It’s making the whole world better.”
Bryan and Katy keep showing up for the Dripping Springs community. As a couple, they are changing lives physically and mentally through inspiring health. Memberships and a la carte options are available at both Crossfit Second Wave and Thriving Springs Wellness.
“You don’t have to accept the status quo,” Katy concludes. “You too can thrive.”
ThrivingSpringsWellness.com CrossFitSecondWave.com
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ARTICLE BY MICAH WIENER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN FRANKLIN
SMILES THAT FEEL LIKE HOME
DRIPPING SPRINGS FAMILY SMILES BLENDS HEART, HEALTH, AND COMMUNITY CARE
In the heart of Dripping Springs, a vibrant, family-run dental practice is redefining the standard for patient care while honoring and serving the community. Dripping Springs Family Smiles is not just a dental practice; it’s a comfortable hub that cares for its patients like family.
Together, Gianna Casarez Quintana, D.D.S., and Christopher F. DeMarco, D.D.S., own and operate Dripping Springs Family Smiles, a practice deeply rooted in the community for almost two decades.
“We always knew we wanted to call Texas home and raise our family in a growing, safe, and friendly community like Dripping Springs, where life is centered around the family unit.”
The duo’s journey began as classmates in dental school, and their connection runs deep. Now husband and wife, DeMarco and Quintana chose Dripping Springs to raise their family, drawn by Quintana’s family history in South Austin that dates back to the 1930s. “We always knew we wanted to call Texas home and raise our family in a growing, safe, and friendly community like Dripping Springs, where life is centered around the family unit,” Quintana says.
Today, their family includes two young daughters, Ella and Everly, and a Weimaraner named Moose. Their weekends are filled with Hill Country spirit, celebrated outdoors with barbecue, laughter, and dance parties.
When Quintana and DeMarco took over the practice several years ago, they prioritized retaining the staff, an integral part of its success. “We wanted patients to continue seeing the same familiar faces,” DeMarco says. This commitment to continuity helps ease the anxiety many feel about visiting the dentist. “Seeing trusted faces is comforting for patients,” he adds, “and we are thankful that the team accepted us into their family.”
“The best part is witnessing the joy and confidence they feel when they see their smile makeover.”
The team of 12 dedicated employees works together to create a welcoming atmosphere, and the family approach extends to patient care. “From the second you walk in our door, you will feel welcomed,” Quintana notes. “You are not just a patient; you become a part of a dental family who truly cares about you.”
The couple recently completed a total renovation of the practice, designed in collaboration with local designer Danyale Keim. They shaped a comfortable and calming environment, far removed from the sterile feel often associated with dental offices. “Our goal was to create an inviting and warm dental office that gave patients a sense of feeling at home,” Quintana explains. The expanded space now allows them to serve even more community members.
Dripping Springs Family Smiles offers a wide range of comprehensive dental services, from routine check-ups to cosmetic transformations.
“We take a lot of pride in helping achieve a patient's aesthetic goals,” says DeMarco. “The best part is witnessing the joy and confidence they feel when they see their smile makeover.”
“The most rewarding part of cosmetic dentistry is watching a patient get up out of the dental chair, walk up to the mirror for the first time, look up, smile big, and burst into tears of pure happiness,” adds Quintana. “There is nothing better than sharing that emotion with someone who undergoes a huge restoration transformation of their beautiful smile that they never knew they had.”
The practice’s dedication to quality care doesn’t stop at cosmetic procedures. With state-of-the-art advanced technology, Quintana and DeMarco can diagnose issues earlier and provide treatment more efficiently, saving patients time and minimizing stress.
Being a part of the Dripping Springs community is more than just business; it’s a deeply held value. They engage with local schools, offer internships, and share in the joy of community events like Founders Day.
“This community is made up of so many wonderful people. Everyone's stories are part of their journey in life, and the fact that we get to be a part of that is incredibly rewarding,” DeMarco says.
“We pour our hearts into this practice every day. We live in Dripping Springs, our girls are educated here, and we are committed to taking care of the people of Dripping Springs. Everyone wears maroon and gold proudly,” he adds.
Their commitment to serving others extends beyond dentistry; Quintana and DeMarco also prioritize community service and have participated in missionary work in Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
As they continue to grow Dripping Springs Family Smiles, they remain committed to education and improvement, striving to stay ahead of the latest advancements in dentistry to ensure they provide the best possible care.
“We promise to always be kind and understanding. And we promise to always have an open heart to serve others,” pledges Quintana.
DrippingSpringsFamilySmiles.com @dsfamilysmiles
HIDDEN HEALTH RISKS OF synthetic
And How It Can be Made Safe
turf
ARTICLE BY CERTIFIED TURF PROS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL THOMSEN
As synthetic turf gains popularity for fields, playgrounds, and even residential yards, hidden health risks are emerging. Beautiful, durable, and low maintenance, synthetic turf might seem like the perfect solution for active families and public spaces. However, recent studies reveal that these surfaces can harbor dangerous bacteria, posing significant risks to children, athletes, and even pets. The good news? With proper measures, these spaces can be cleaned and made safe.
Austin-based turf company Certified Turf Pros recently conducted extensive testing on synthetic turf in public areas and residential yards across the Austin metro area. The findings were alarming—many sites showed contamination levels up to 20 times higher than what is considered safe. Fields, nurseries, and backyards housed harmful bacteria including staph, bacillus cereus (which causes food poisoning), and ringworm.
A Texas Department of Health study found that high school football players in Texas experience MRSA infection rates 16 times higher than the national average. Furthermore, research from the National Institutes of Health shows that MRSA is responsible for one-third of all infectious outbreaks in competitive sports.
Toddlers and pets who regularly come into close contact with turf surfaces may face more frequent and severe infections. Dogs, who frequently lick surfaces, can unknowingly ingest bacteria, while children are particularly susceptible due to their developing immune systems.
Many parents, pet owners, and facility managers still believe that standard cleaning is sufficient to ensure the safety of synthetic turf; however, without regular, detailed testing, it is impossible to confirm these surfaces are truly safe.
Certified Turf Pros is committed to addressing this critical health issue. Using a proactive, science-based approach—including regular testing, effective cleaning, and proper disinfection—it can ensure synthetic turf is truly free from dangerous pathogens. Certified Turf Pros provides professional testing services to assess contamination levels and a remediation protocol to restore safer conditions. By adopting these measures, families, schools, and communities can significantly reduce the risks associated with synthetic turf. Creating safer environments for children, athletes, and pets is within reach— starting with awareness and a commitment to proactive turf care.
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BREATHE EASY
SALT & LIGHT BLENDS ADVANCED NATURAL WELLNESS THERAPIES
ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HAFNER
At Salt & Light, founder Rachel Crocker is passionate about the power of natural therapies to improve health and well-being. Rooted in faith and with a vision to bring life-enhancing, holistic healing to the community, Salt & Light offers cutting-edge treatments in a serene and rejuvenating environment for people of all ages to relax, heal, and thrive.
As a child, Crocker was plagued by persistent allergies and eventually found relief through salt therapy treatments. Years later, seeing that so many Dripping Springs neighbors suffered from “cedar fever” and other allergy-induced misery, Crocker knew she could help ease their discomfort.
Now, nestled in the heart of downtown Dripping Springs, Salt & Light offers salt therapy, red light therapy, and an infrared sauna that can potentially help with myriad conditions ranging from asthma, snoring, and anxiety to ear infections, joint pain, poor circulation, and more.
“In Dripping Springs, there are a lot of people who are open minded; they’re looking for alternatives and non-surgical avenues to heal and prevent ailments,” Crocker shares. “People here care about wellness, and this is a great option to add into their routine.”
SALT THERAPY
Salt therapy, or halotherapy, originated in the 1800s when some doctors recognized that salt miners seemed less likely than other patients to suffer from respiratory and skin ailments. They sent their patients to visit salt mines for healing; the mines even carved out separate areas for people to receive this original halotherapy.
These days, salt therapy is available by replicating the salt mine environment using a halogenerator, which grinds up dry, pure-grade sodium chloride into tiny particles that are dispersed into the air. Crocker explains that these micro-particles work “like a tiny toothbrush, going into your sinus cavities and lungs to clear everything out.”
Inhaling the anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory salt crystals opens the lungs and sinuses and breaks up and clears mucus, helping with symptoms of COPD, sinus infections, allergies, and more. The innovative treatment
“People here care about wellness, and this is a great option to add into their routine.”
also expands the airways and can even improve athletic performance, muscle endurance, and recovery. It can also help relieve the pain and swelling of ear infections.
As you relax and breathe in the soothing, immune-boosting salt air, the salt particles also land on your skin, penetrating deeply to naturally enhance its protective and reparative properties. This salt therapy can help with a multitude of conditions such as dry skin, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
—RACHEL CROCKER
RED LIGHT THERAPY
In the 1980s, NASA investigated the effects of light on plants in space and discovered that red light helped promote plant growth. Later, NASA’s research for astronauts, who could become injured or ill during long space missions, demonstrated that light therapy can naturally and safely treat a variety of skin and pain conditions.
Red light therapy works at the cellular level by boosting the cells’ energy, allowing them to do their work, such as growth and repair, more efficiently. Salt & Light’s red light therapy utilizes two wavelengths of bioactive red light—one that improves skin texture and tone and the other that penetrates deep into the tissues to help with wound healing, muscle recovery, nerve injury, and joint pain.
Red light therapy is best known for its rejuvenating effects that improve skin health and appearance—it boosts collagen for firmer, smoother skin and fewer wrinkles and improves acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The state-of-the-art light treatment also relieves chronic pain and even serves as a natural mood lifter, helping with anxiety and depression. Crocker herself discovered that red light therapy also offered tremendous post-partum benefits, alleviating pain and helping her heal. “I want to be able to bring that to other people because it helped me so much,” she shares.
INFRARED SAUNA & HALOSAUNA BOOTH
Using infrared panels rather than conventional heat, the infrared sauna at Salt & Light heats up the body before heating up the air, penetrating the skin more deeply than a traditional sauna. The invigorating, detoxifying sauna treatment helps relieve sore muscles and joint pain, improve circulation, clear and tighten skin, aid with weight loss, and promote better sleep.
The HaloSauna booth at Salt & Light allows clients to blend their peaceful sauna experience with salt therapy, red light therapy, or both. Combining these treatments in one session not only saves time but maximizes the effects of the individual treatments.
RELAXATION & RESTORATION
Salt & Light translates these scientifically backed, high-technology treatments into a serene, spa-like experience that allows you to relax and savor the process of healing and renewal. The quiet sanctuary provides a break from the demands of daily life and eases you into a balance of body, mind, and spirit.
As a busy mom and entrepreneur, Crocker understands the restorative properties of a few peaceful moments alone. “I really struggle with slowing down, and it’s bad for my body,” she says. “I felt like I was constantly stressed and anxious, but just by sitting in the salt room or sauna I start feeling better.”
THE SALT & THE LIGHT
The Bible beckons Christians to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16), challenging them to enhance the quality of life around them by preserving and illuminating goodness.
Crocker shares, “I just started thinking about what I’d like to bring to this community, and what could help people, and Salt & Light developed from that.” Guided by her faith and inspired by her own journey toward better health, she aims to serve, help, and heal others through transformative treatments, doing her part to bring salt and light to Dripping Springs. SaltAndLightATX.com | @saltandlightatx
ARTICLE BY KATHLEEN
WHOLESOME HABITS, HEALTHY KIDS
In my 22 years as a pediatrician, I have seen my fair share of earaches, sore throats, coughs, and other typical childhood illnesses. Each year, however, I encounter more and more children suffering from chronic conditions such as asthma, mood disorders, and autoimmune diseases, signaling an increase in inflammation. The good news: We can work on lowering inflammation in the body through good nutrition, regular exercise, and restful sleep.
Our kids are surrounded by foods that are full of dyes, preservatives, and sugar—a main player in inflammation. We need to feed the body nutrients that help keep the immune system calm but vigilant with a well-balanced diet of vegetables and fruits, unprocessed proteins, and omega-3 fats. Guidelines to help feed your kids well:
• Cut all sugar to less than 24 grams per day.
• Include at least five colors of vegetables and fruits every day.
• Eliminate sodas, fruit juices, diet drinks, and artificial sweeteners.
• Include fermented foods like sauerkraut or kombucha.
• Improve fiber intake with complex grains and vegetables.
• Cut down on pre-packaged foods, fast food, and dining out. Homecooked meals are best.
Additionally, in our increasingly digital world, kids have become less active. Children ages 2 through 5 should get three hours of daily exercise, while older kids should aim for at least one hour each day. All children need sunshine, fresh air, and lots of movement. Tips to keep your kids active and improve their well-being:
• Encourage activities like walking, riding bikes, and swimming.
• Monitor the online sites kids visit.
• Limit or eliminate social media use, which is associated with anxiety and depression.
• Screens are not recommended at all for younger children; they lower kids’ ability to self-regulate emotions.
Lastly, our kids need rest. While we sleep, our bodies repair themselves; for example,
melatonin is produced during sleep and helps heal damaged tissue. Predictable routines and regular bedtimes can help. Other ideas to help your kids get better sleep:
• Stop screen use at least one hour before bedtime.
• Remove screens from the bedroom and turn off lights.
• If sleep onset is difficult, encourage prayer or meditation, journaling, or reading. We may not be able to solve the mystery of increasing chronic conditions in our kids, but we can certainly mitigate them by helping children be the healthiest version of themselves. And it is never too late for us to set a positive example— these healthy habits are good for parents too!
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Blood Orange Spritzer Mocktail
Kick off the new year with a refreshing and vibrant twist on wellness. This Blood Orange Spritzer combines the zesty brightness of blood orange juice with a hint of ginger spice and a splash of lime, for a drink that’s as uplifting as your January goals. Perfectly garnished with fresh and flavorful accents, this mocktail is a toast to healthy beginnings.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON WOODWARD
INGREDIENTS
• 3 ounces blood orange juice
• 2 ounces ginger beer or ginger ale
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
DIRECTIONS
1. Start by filling your favorite glass halfway with ice.
2. Pour in the blood orange juice, followed by the ginger beer or ginger ale.
3. Stir in the lime juice to balance the sweetness with a refreshing tang. For an extra burst of citrus aroma, you can rub a slice of lime around the rim of the glass before adding it to the drink.
4. Top it off with thin slices of blood orange for a pop of color, a piece of candied ginger for a sweet-spicy crunch, and a sprig of mint for a fragrant touch.
This drink's natural ingredients and low sugar content make it a wholesome choice for anyone embracing a healthier lifestyle. Cheers to wellness!
@hillcountryhappyhour
GENERAL • COSMETIC • IMPLANT
“I want to welcome you to Gatlin Creek Dentistry. If you are a patient, I hope it is abundantly apparent how much you and your family mean to me and our team. Providing compassionate care in an engaging and comfortable environment is our goal. Please come see us.”
SHANE W. WHISENANT, DDS
JANUARY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 2ND
Hudson House Band Performances
Hudson's on Mercer | 8:30 PM
Musical duo and owners of Hudson’s on Mercer, Chad and Natasha Hudson take to the stage. Performing every Thursday with special guests, each week is unique with the Hudson House Band. HudsonsOnMercer.com
JANUARY 2ND
Dripping Springs Blood Drive
Ranch Park | 11:00 AM
Start the new year off right by giving back to the community through We Are Blood’s local blood drive in early January. Stop by to make a lasting impact on someone’s life. DrippingSpringsRanchPark.com
JANUARY 11TH
Porsche Enthusiasts Host Casual Get-Together
Le Muse Coffee and Wine Bar, 505 Wynnpage Drive | 9:00 AM
Hill Country Region Porsche Club of America is giving local Porsche lovers an opportunity to meet up and share their passion for the luxury cars. Stop by Le Muse for coffee, snacks, and car conversations. No reservation required. LeMuseCoffeeAndWineBar.com
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events
CONTINUED
JANUARY 18TH
Cooking Class
Mystic Sky Ranch | 12:00 PM
Along with Onion Creek Kitchens, Mystic Sky Ranch is hosting a winter soups and breads cooking class. Here you’ll learn how to make five delicious, gourmet soups perfect for the chilly weather. The deadline to sign up is January 11. MysticSkyRanch.com
JANUARY 19TH
Sydney Copus
Fitzhugh Brewery | 2:00 PM
For a perfect day out with friends, come enjoy fantastic brews, great food, and the country music stylings of Austin native Sydney Copus at Fitzhugh Brewery. SidneyCopus.com
JANUARY 30TH
Limoncello Night at Gardien
Wine Gardien | 6:00 PM
Learn the art of making limoncello with Buono Cello while enjoying limoncello spritzers, charcuterie, and dessert. You’ll paint your bottle to take home and receive a kit to make 17 ounces of limoncello. WineGardien.com
Experience Ferrari’s Individuality with the Tailor-Made SF90 Spider in Glossy Verde Kers.
The Ferrari SF90 Spider in Glossy Verde Kers, enhanced by the TailorMade program, is a true masterpiece of personal expression. Every detail—from the selection of luxurious materials to bespoke finishes— reflects the creator’s unique vision. Powered by a 4.0L V8 hybrid engine producing over 900 horsepower, its striking hue exudes both aggression and refinement, perfectly complementing Ferrari’s legendary performance heritage.
Visit the Ferrari of Austin showroom today!
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