Lake Austin September 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015

Lake Austin

LakeAustinLifestyle.com

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Local Farms = Local Food

GROW, SHARE, PREPARE THE HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SPA THERAPY FARM FRESH FOODS DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

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Editor’s Letter

Reason # 1 I love Austin!

SEPTEMBER 2015

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y brother has inspired me to start a new trend in my monthly letter to you. He lives in Denver, Colorado, and we chat over the phone as often as we can. The other day I was on the phone with him when he told me, "Alissa, you are always bragging about Austin! You really love it! I think you've given me hundreds of reasons you love Austin." That's when it hit me. Of course I brag about how much I love Austin. I have the opportunity to explore our community and learn about unique businesses, areas, events, and happenings as I put this publication together for you. Plus, I have the privilege of getting to know the unique and special people who make Austin awesome. So every month I will share with you a reason I love our community.

Reason # 1 - We live in a health conscious city that strives to make local farm food accessible to everyone. There are several options available for us to buy local, with farmers markets being among the most prevalent. If you haven't been to a farmers market lately, I highly recommend you go! A farmers market is no longer just a quick shopping trip to run out to buy this season's latest in fresh produce. It's become so much more. When you arrive at a farmers market you are greeted with colorful sights, enticing smells, friendly smiling people, laughter and even live music. Everywhere you look people are engaged in intriguing conversations. My favorite part is that you no longer see just food. Homemade products from soaps and lotions, to teeth whitening products, salves, candles, home-remedy products, and more are available. The best part? As you shop, you are supporting your community.

So I encourage you to branch out this weekend and attend one of your local farmers markets. You are sure to enjoy your experience.

publisher Cherice Engel | CEngel@LifestylePubs.com

editor Alissa Pallan | Alissa.Pallan@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Teresa Engel, Alisha McDarris, Ann Taylor, Val Valdez

contributing photographers Christina Feddersen - Matchless Exposure, Julia McMenamin, Kelly Rucker, Buff Strickland, IXI - ixi.photography

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker, Katy James layout designer | Nicole Sylvester copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell web developer | Hanna Park it director | Randy Aufderheide

Until next time,

Alissa Pallan, Editor Alissa.Pallan@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

LakeAustinLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Greenling works with local

farmers to bring you the finest in fresh vine ripened organic foods.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA MCMENAMIN 4

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Lake Austin Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Lake Austin’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Lake Austin Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes •

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September 2015

Departments

14

14 Sustainable Foods

Strengthening the local food system by growing food, sharing the

bounty and preparing good, fresh and healthy foods.

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Parent’s Corner

14

Giving Back

16

Hops & Vine

22

Hot Spot

24

Local Limelight

26

Driver’s Notebook

29

Sold Properties

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

18 Greenling

8

Parting Thoughts

Delivering farm fresh food while sustaining environmental health.

24 Sage and Sweetgrass Wellness Spa

Holistic healing where mind, body and spirit can unite and rest.

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September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

7

Good Times

Sonesta Hotel Grand Opening

The Sonesta Hotel opened its doors on July 5, 2015. A grand opening celebration kicked off with a special ribbon cutting ceremony followed by an after party. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY RUCKER AND SONESTA BEE CAVE

Daniel Myrick, Maria Sturdivant, Bill Goodwin, Caroline Murphy, Adrian Overstreet, Stephanie Samuels, Steve Braasch, Kara King, Jena Edge

Meridith Bryan, Nicole Callison, Brandy Meitzen, Erica Ademski

Caroline Murphy - City of Bee Cave Mayor, Carlos Flores - CEO of Sonessta, Adrian Overstreet - Manager, Ownership Group

Bill Zapalac, President and General Partner of Zapalac Carlos Flores and Caroline Murphy cutting the ribbon

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Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

Champagne celebration

Flood Aid TX In response to the recent devastation from Central Texas flooding, community leaders rallied to organize a day-long benefit concert, Flood Aid TX, to support flood relief. To date, over $225K has been raised.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA FEDDERSEN - MATCHLESS EXPOSURE

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Around Town SUPPORT WILDFLOWERS STATEWIDE Texans who love seeing wildflowers across the state can now show their wildflower pride by purchasing a new license plate. The Texas Wildflowers specialty plate supports the Wildflower Center’s conservation and restoration work and is available for cars/ trucks, motorcycles and trailers. The Texas Wildflowers license plate was designed pro bono by a Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center volunteer. It displays a Texas bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis), a pink evening primrose (Oenothera speciosa), a firewheel or Indian blanket (Gaillardia pulchella), and an Indian paintbrush (Castellija indivisa). The specialty plate will cost $30 after the annual registration fee. A majority of the funds, $22, will go to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to help increase the use and conservation of native plants, and to promote the restoration and creation of healthy landscapes across Texas. Texas has nearly one quarter of the nation’s native plants, or more than 5,000 different species. 31 of these native Texas plant species are considered at risk of extinction, and all face threats such as habitat loss and the introduction of aggressive, non-native plants that compete with native plants for resources. To learn more about native plant preservation and purchasing your very own Texas Wildflower License Plate go to WildFlower.org.

mammograms for every screening and diagnostic mammogram. Austin Breast Imaging's stand-alone facility offers a relaxing atmosphere, a professional courteous staff and cutting edge technology to deliver accurate results you can trust. The wait time between screening and diagnostic results is minimal. Austin Breast Imaging is setting the standard for today's breast health. You can experience the new location at 12319 N Mopac Expy #320, Austin, TX 78758. To make an appointment call 512.776.1000 or visit Austin3DMammo.com.

SUN AUTO SERVICE GRAND OPENING Sun Auto Service celebrates its grand opening on September 12, 2015. For automotive repair you can trust, bring your car or truck to Sun Auto Service in Lakeway on Ranch Road 620. With nearly four decades in the business, it’s easy to see why Sun Auto Service is your alternative to the dealership. You’ll love the professional care from the moment you step into the service center. They can perform any service or maintenance your vehicle requires from oil changes with included tire rotations to air conditioning inspections, brake repairs, and so much more. Sun Auto Service Lakeway is located at 1206 Ranch Rd. 620 N, Lakeway, TX 78734; SunAutoService.com.

6TH ANNUAL BE BRAVE BENEFIT

NOW OPEN At Austin Breast Imaging, your breast health is their top priority. 3D mammography is standard at their centers and read by the physicians who pioneered the testing of this breakthrough technology. Physicians perform all breast ultrasound exams and deliver diagnostic results directly to the patients. They provide low dose 3D 10

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

Copeland & FIAT of Austin, bring you live music, free parking, awesome after party, auctions, guest speakers and The Oak Ridge Boys! Sunday, October 18, 2015, 3 - 11 p.m. at The Oasis Starlight Room. Food will be available for purchase and can be ordered from The Oasis wait staff in the Starlight room. This event is a cash bar. There will be a huge silent auction for you and your friends to explore and place bids. If you prefer reserved, priority seating, it is available when purchasing your tickets. You donate to this cause or purchase your tickets at BeBraveBenefit.net.

A benefit for HealInComfort4AChange.org to help breast cancer warriors from around the nation heal in comfort and dignity by providing them with specialized post-operative recovery healincomfort shirts.

These shirts have been designed with both comfort and medical necessity in mind. Healincomfort has a goal to change post-operative policy on a national scale and ensure that every woman is sent home with a healincomfort shirt to ease the reduced mobility and discomfort as a result of a mastectomy, and allow them to heal in comfort and dignity. With your help, and the support of the medical community, we will get there. Shirts are provided free to any Austin resident with a need. Presenting sponsors for the Be Brave Benefit, Lisa

25TH ANNIVERSARY AND HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE ZOO The Austin Zoo is celebrating its 25th anniversary on September 12th and 13th with a special discount of 25 percent off all single price admissions. The discount cannot be combined with any other discount offer, promotion or coupon/voucher.

Guests are invited to bring or email photos of their favorite Zoo memories over the past 25 years, which the Zoo will be compiling into a photo display. Also this month, the Austin Zoo Education Program will be hosting Homeschool Day on Friday, September 25 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. for all ages.

There are at least 17 learning stations confirmed for this educational day. Some of the stations include: My what big TEETH you have, Why are Bats Important?, Keep Austin Beautiful, Amazing Endangered Beetles, Eat Yummy Bugs, New Technology Fun, Art

Garage, Safe City, Solar System Exploration, and Animal Artifacts and Biofacts. Plus you get to build your own animal habitat to take home. Cost for this program is $5 for adults and $5 for children.

Please call 512.288.5031 for reservations. Advance reservations are required. You are sure to enjoy this fun-filled day! AustinZoo.org

CALLING ALL SHOPPERS Kristine Palmer, W by Worth Stylist, is ready to outfit you for the coming winter. Kristine guarantees to provide a fun and highly personalized shopping experience unlike any you have experienced. From wardrobe-building to event-specific dressing, Kristine understands the fashion demands of your lifestyle and will guide you to solutions you will love. It’s an intimate, unique approach to shopping that keeps women in-the-know looking fabulous. W by Worth's winter line debuts September 12th. It is time to set your personal shopping appointment. Contact Kristine directly to schedule your unique shopping experience or virtual tour of the winter line. Kristine Palmer: 512.921.6873; kpalmer@worthltd.com.

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facebook.com/ LakeAustinLifestyle SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH US! We want to share in the exciting happenings in your life! As your community inspired publication we love celebrating your big announcements with you. Please share your wedding bells news and the precious details of your brand new little one. Let us help gush over you and your happiness. Alissa.Pallan@LifeStylePubs.com.

September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

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Parent’s Corner

BATTLING

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

ILLNESSES THIS YEAR WE HAVE YOU COVERED WITH HINTS AND TIPS TO FIGHT THOSE NASTYS

ARTICLE ALISSA PALLAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

L

ast year was my first experience with the dreaded back-toschool-illnesses. To say it was horrendous would be an understatement. I have identical twin boys who started kindergarten in 2014. Leading up to the first day of school we did all of the standard back-to-school preparations: bought school supplies, went clothing and shoe shopping, registered the kids, met the teacher and started putting the boys to bed earlier to prepare them for school; we had it under control. The first day of school may have torn at my heartstrings when my suddenly big-boys smiled brightly at me, sat in their chair, started their work and said, “Bye Mom and Dad. See you later.” But I was able to handle it. My husband told me, “We got this!” And then day 3 of school arrived. My son, Cade, came home with a runny nose and cough and I thought, “And so it starts.” Little did I know it was the start of misery in my household until December. We so did not “have this.”

My poor twins brought home virus after virus for weeks on end.

Just when I thought we were getting over one illness, the next one would start. At one point it truly felt like it was never going to end. To make matters worse, they battle asthma. Almost every cold brings with it a very persistent, nasty cough requiring inhalers and breathing treatments. They sleep very little so I sleep very little. The icing on the cake was we also had a two year-old boy and two-month-old nursing baby girl at home. To say I was a miserable, sick, walking zombie would be putting it mildly.

This year has to be different. We all know that back-to-school will mean the onslaught of sickness and germs. In fact, according to a survey conducted by Boogie Wipes, 67 percent of parents report their kids were sick within the first month of returning to school in the fall. However, armed with the right knowledge and supplies we should be able to lessen the effect of these back-toschool germs, and maybe even avoid 1 or 2 of the nastys.

Practice Makes Perfect – Clean hands spread fewer germs. Teach children proper hand washing technique by using finger paint to color their hands. Paint around fingernails, between fingers, at the base of the palm and on the back of hands. Using soap and 12

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

warm water, have kids scrub until all the paint is gone. Wherever you see paint is where germs can hide.

Learn About Germs – Help kids understand why germs are so nasty by doing a simple experiment at home. Collect two slices of whole wheat bread (white will take longer to mold because of the preservatives in it) and two sandwich bags. Have your child use dirty hands, that have not recently been washed, to touch one piece of bread on both sides. Place it in a bag and seal. Mark that bag “dirty hands.” Next, have your child wash his or her hands and touch the second slice of bread. Place it in a bag marked “clean hands.” After a few days, mold will have grown faster on the dirty slice of bread due to the amount of germs.

Pack Reusable Water Bottles – Pack reusable water bottles for your kids and try to encourage them to not use the school’s drinking fountain. Many kids use the water fountain and more often than not little ones put their mouths on the potentially germy spigot.

Stock Up the Desk - Pack tissues and Boogie Wipes for your little ones to take to school and keep in their desks. When at home, don’t let a runny nose go unnoticed. If you are making a point to clean their nose or remind kids to do it themselves, they will eventually develop a habit. By providing them with their own special products they will feel mature and be more inclined to wipe without a reminder.

Sharing is Not Always Caring – Encourage your children not to share food or drink, even pens and pencils, with other students. The less shared surfaces your child comes into contact with during the day, the lower the potential for spreading and contracting germs.

The first-ever saline nose wipe, Boogie Wipes®, was invented by two moms as a solution for their kids’ sore, red, stuffy noses. Today, the brand has expanded beyond wipes to offer parents additional saline-based products for kids including Boogie Mist. Boogie Wipes was invented in 2007. Its products are sold in retail locations throughout the United States and Canada including Target, Walgreens and Toys ‘R’ Us. For more information, visit: BoogieWipes.com.

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Giving Back

Grow Share Prepare: Changing Lives through Food

SUSTAINABLE FOOD CENTER STRENGTHENS ACCESS TO NUTRITIOUS, AFFORDABLE FOOD ARTICLE ANN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BUFF STRICKLAND AND IXI.PHOTOGRAPHY

M

ama always said to eat your fruits and veggies. Sadly, it seems not many of us listened. A new study shows that only one in 10 Americans is eating the daily recommended two cups of fruit and two to three cups of vegetables, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Andrew Smiley and the Sustainable Food Center (SFC) staff are on a mission to change that statistic. The Austin non-profit’s mission is to strengthen the local food system and improve access to nutritious, affordable food. They do this through three program areas: Grow Local, Farm Direct, which includes the SFC Farmers’ Markets, and The Happy Kitchen.

“Whether it’s growing food, sharing the bounty or preparing good, fresh and healthy foods – there’s an on-ramp for everyone” says Smiley, deputy director of SFC. SFC’s four farmers’ markets held weekly throughout Austin attract more than 220,000 people a year and contribute $2.5 to $3 million to the local economy. The largest is downtown on Saturday at Republic Square Park, 4th and Guadalupe. The market is a hustling and bustling affair with nearly 50 vendors offering freshly picked seasonal produce, herbs, juices, salsa, meat and eggs, coffee, bread, salsa and hundreds of other 14

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

items. Equally as busy but with a more family-feel is Saturday’s SFC Farmers’ Market at Sunset Valley, and adjacent Artisans Market at 3200 Jones Road at the Toney Burger Center. Both are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

SFC hosts two smaller markets – one in East Austin on Tuesdays in front of the SFC offices at Alexander and 17th street, conveniently near the MLK rail stop; and one inside the Triangle Park, 46th and Lamar, on Wednesdays. Catering to the work crowd and residents who live nearby, both are open from 3 to 7 p.m.

To be eligible to sell at SFC’s markets, farmers must grow or raise their product within a 150 miles radius of Austin. Smiley says consumers enjoy having the ability to speak directly to the farmer who grew their food about growing methods, as well as produce varieties.

“We are creating access for typical consumers, as well as ensuring access to healthy food for families who may be struggling economically,” says Smiley.

All of the farmers markets allow Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) participants to double their dollars when buying fruits and produce. Funding for the Double Dollar Incentive Program comes

from St. David’s Foundation, Farm Aid, the City of Austin Health and Human Services and the Anderson Charitable Foundation.

“The Farmers Markets are great incubators for new products and great branding for more established companies,” says Smiley. “Our vendors range from small farms to more established brands such as Texas French Bread, Taco Deli and Texas Coffee Traders.”

Some Austin originals that have gotten their start at SFC’s farmers’ markets include the Sticky Toffee Pudding Company, Hat Creek Pickle Company, The Mediterranean Chef (makers of Grandma’s Hummus and other products) and Dai Due restaurant, now serving food in a brick and mortar location on Manor Road.

Smiley says education plays a large role in the non-profit’s mission. In addition to cooking and gardening classes, SFC partners with others to offer cooking demos, composting classes, kids activities and music at its farmers markets Beyond the farmers markets, SFC offers other Farm Direct programs that offer fresh, local produce deliveries to work sites, families that are part of a local school community and cafeterias in hospitals, universities and other institutions.

Not sure what to make with your fresh produce? SFC has a solution for that too. The Happy Kitchen/La Cocina Alegre® located at SFC’s offices (17th and Alexander) offer affordable cooking and nutrition education classes. In September, classes include Eating Well in all Stages of Pregnancy (Sept. 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $40), Essential Knife Skills (Sept. 17, 6:308:30 p.m., $35), Quick and Healthy Weeknight Meals (Sept. 22, 6:30 p.m., $30) and Meatless Main Dishes (Sept. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $30). Register for classes at SustainableFoodCenter.org/get-involved/classes-events.

If getting your hands dirty is more your style, gardening classes also are available through SFC. Classes take advantage of the agency’s spacious grounds which include an herb garden, community garden and J.P.’s Peace, Love and Happiness Foundation’s teaching garden used for classes, student field trips and drop-in visits.

Gardening classes in September include Introduction to Food Gardening (Sept. 5 & 12 and Sept. 26 & Oct. 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., $40), Building Healthy Soil (Sept. 8, 6-8 p.m., $15), School Garden Leadership Training (Sept. 14 & 15, 6-8 p.m., free, space is limited), Planning a Successful Fall Garden (Sept. 19, 9:30-11:30 a.m., $15) and Fundraising, Grantwriting and Accepting Donations and Services for Community Gardens (Sept. 21, 6:30-8 p.m., free for current community garden leaders).

“We are one of the few organizations in the country who is working toward whole food system outcomes,” says Smiley. “We call this the grow-share-prepare approach.”

Like most non-profit agencies, volunteers play a large role and help SFC expand their reach into the community. Volunteer roles include riding in or helping to staff the upcoming Mamma Jamma Ride on Sept. 26 which supports SFC’s Cooking for Cancer Survivors free classes, working the information or sampling table at farmers’ markets, representing SFC at community events, or by becoming an SFC donor – there’s room for everyone. New volunteers are asked to attend an orientation on Sept. 10 from 6-7 p.m. at the SFC headquarters.

“Volunteers are part of what make SFC so successful,” says Smiley.

“Without them we could not serve the 350,000 people annually who count on us for access to healthy, affordable, locally-grown food.”

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Hops & Vine

Patio P leasers ARTICLE TERESA ENGEL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY STEINER RANCH STEAKHOUSE

A

soft late summer evening, a lovely patio, sipping some fruit of the vine; pure pleasure. As we head into that most wonderful time of the year when our evenings are a bit longer and progressively cooler, patio sitting becomes an art form. And of course, the wine you select helps make this time even more enjoyable. But what wine to choose when there are so many choices available?

Local who's-in-the-know, Jason Garcia, offers his insight as to what wines are trending. Jason is general manager and wine director at Steiner Ranch Steakhouse. The restaurant, known for its outstanding food, beautiful patio overlooking Lake Travis, and live entertainment, also excels in wine. Steiner Ranch has been selected as a 2015 Wine Spectator Award recipient, and in 2014 they received the Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence.”

“Obviously, as the temperatures heat up the general wine consumption changes,” says Garcia. “We see a shift from big reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon to an increase in whites and rosés; these usually are are crisp, clean and dry. While our clientele love oaky & buttery chardonnays, we have seen a shift for many leaning towards the Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, chilled Pinot Noirs and even the occasional dry Riesling or sweeter wines such as Moscato. We actually have a selection of wines on our wine list referred to as Rosés & Patio Pleasers. I personally believe this is a more accurate term for our list and for our patio than the often used "Interesting Whites" on other wine lists. Our selections are 16

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

typically blends of wines that are really well balanced and structured in order to pair with a variety of appetizers, salads and entrees, or even drink quite easily all on their own merit.”

July and August really had us feeling the heat. And although September does bring several days of summer-like temperatures, there are also those times when the air is cooler, lighter; the promise of fall. There is a subtle shift in which wines are most requested; the Patio Pleasers and Rosés moving into the Pinot Noirs, lighter reds and heavier Chardonnays.

“From Champagne to Prosecco, oaked to unoaked Chardonnays, New Zealand to California Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or to the Patio Pleasers and Rosés, there is a flavor profile for everyone,” says Garcia.

“Typically, we are seeing that highly acidic wines are really what our clientele are leaning towards, mainly because these wines are really food friendly. They create a mouth-watering sensation that makes you not want to put your glass down, and before you know it, the glass has become empty and it is time for that second bottle among family, friends, date or colleagues,” Garcia concludes.

“What could be better?”

No argument here! An enjoyable experience awaits, regardless of the temperature. The next time a patio beckons you to come and hold it down, give one of these recommended wines a try. Perhaps you will discover a new favorite. The pleasure will be all yours.

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Local organic foods delivered to your door.

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ARTICLE ALISSA PALLAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY GREENLING AND JULIA MCMENAMIN

The movement towards sustainable, organic, whole foods is strengthening throughout the nation. This is especially true here in Austin where we put a healthy lifestyle and diet at the top of our priorities. As someone who is trying to do the very best for my family every time I step into a grocery store, I am thrilled to share the unique and Austin original, Greenling.

Launching in 2005, Greenling began when Mason Arnold combined his passions and beliefs around the simple idea that people needed a way to get fresh, nutritious food, and it needed to happen in a way that did not damage our environment. A small company with a big appetite 18

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

for change, the Greenling team is committed to sustainability, environmental consciousness, and the support of home-grown farms and businesses. Their mission is to improve the sourcing and availability of whole, natural, and healthful foods for as many people as possible.

They provide all the grocery necessities plus prepared kitchen ingredients, catering platters, grab and go bites, and more.

Aside from providing produce and pantry staples, Greenling also has a certified organic prep kitchen that produces the grab and go snacks as well as signature meal kits. Meal Kits are convenient for

everyone, with the added benefit of not having to worry about the quality of the ingredients you are cooking with.

“Whether you are a busy professional, new parent, grandparent, or new to this whole cooking thing, our all-inclusive meal kits answer the question of ‘What’s for dinner?’ in a way you can feel good about,” says Julia McMenamin with Greenling.

As there is no membership with Greenling, customers can choose what they want, and when they want it delivered. You can go online at Greenling.com and browse the many grocery options to decide what is best for you. There is a wide range of items including seasonal produce boxes (which have set ingredients), a running selection of local and organic fruits and vegetables, dry goods, and pre-prepped meal kits. With so many options to choose from, visiting their website and playing around with the choices will help you to better understand your ordering options.

You can elect to place either a singular order or you can set up a free delivery schedule at one, two, or three week intervals.

Greenling is much more than an online organic grocery store. They care about their farmers, product, environment and consumer. Greenling is centered on helping people build relationships with their farmers and their food.

“We work with local farmers and vendors whenever possible and deliver fresh organic and local food right to people’s doorstep for the same price as the grocery store, with free delivery. We strive for sustainability not just in our product but in everything the company does and touches. Our goal is to help create sustainable communities through an alternative food distribution network,” McMenamin says.

“We investigate all vendors for a match in these core values. We’ve proven the concept and developed a great resource for people and farmers to connect through our innovative business model and award-winning software and have a customer-base of more than 2000 people. We won “Best Local Food Company” in the Austin Chronicle’s Reader’s Poll and the Austin Business Journal’s Going Green award for environmental stewardship.”

CEO Mason Arnold

Meal Kit

“We work with local farmers and vendors whenever possible and deliver fresh organic and local food right to people’s doorstep for the same price as the grocery store, with free delivery. We strive for sustainability not just in our product but in everything the company does and touches. Our goal is to help create sustainable communities through an alternative food distribution network,” McMenamin says.

One of the reasons Arnold chose to make Greenling an online grocery store that delivers directly to its consumers is to help reduce the carbon footprint of our ever-increasing grocery demands. The average conventional produce travels more than 1,800 miles to the grocery stores, using up energy, oil and gasoline resources. By Greenling making the choice to provide foods from local farms, produce travels an average of 80 miles to the Greenling warehouse. From there, Greenling’s trucks actually use 86 percent less fuel than all of its customers going to the store themselves.

The shorter travel time allows produce to ripen longer on the vine. Research has proven that the longer produce has to ripen, the more nutrient dense and flavorful it will be.

“We have shortened the time and transportation costs it takes to get your groceries from the farm to your table so much that we’re also able to get you a more nutritious product and one that is less costly to the earth,” McMenamin says.

Aside from bringing you local organic foods delivered to your doorstep, Greenling chooses to offer organic produce because they are passionate about the health benefits it provides. Conventional produce is produced using thousands of harmful toxins, while organic agriculture produces products using methods that preserve the environment and avoid most synthetic materials, such as pesticides and antibiotics.

CONTINUED >

September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

19

THE GREEN MOVEMENT (CONTINUED)

Farmstead Box

Meal Kit

Local Produce Box

“Every year thousands of brand new, and often untested, pesticides, herbicides, hormones, and antibiotics are used in our food system. This is in addition to the tens of thousands that already exist. Did you know that the conventional peach on the grocery store is 99 percent guaranteed to be contaminated with toxic pesticides and likely to have up to 13 different pesticides on just that one peach? We have clear research that each of these pesticides are toxic, but there’s no research on what all these pesticides do together inside our bodies,” McMenamin says. The fresh-fleshed faces of the conventional fruits and veggies on grocery store shelves beckon with their promise of great value, size, and uniformity. In appearing so beseechingly benign, who would guess that these pieces of produce could be concealing secret monsters. “In this day and age of advanced chemical engineering the proof is out there about the sheer number of toxins that are leaching into the “health” foods that we put on the dinner table. We believe people deserve to be fed and nourished, not secretly poisoned, that is why we are so committed to what we do. Good food should be the standard, not an unattainable luxury.”

The organic choice is also an environmentally conscious choice. Greenling strongly believes that farming and food production go hand in hand with environment health.

“Conventional chemicals attempt to kill the soil and everything else except the desired plant; there clearly seems to be no 20

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

“Conventional chemicals attempt to kill the soil and everything else except the desired plant; there clearly seems to be no concern for direct environment, residues, or anything beyond looks and profit. For us there are no trade offs. We go organic because it is a win-win for everyone—we do it to promote environmental stewardship, human health and wellness, and quite simply making quality food available to our neighbors just seems like the right thing to do,” says McMenamin.

concern for direct environment, residues, or anything beyond looks and profit. For us there are no trade offs. We go organic because it is a win-win for everyone—we do it to promote environmental stewardship, human health and wellness, and quite simply making quality food available to our neighbors just seems like the right thing to do,” says McMenamin.

We live by the adage “Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something,” — Mason Arnold, Greenling Founder/CEO. To become a Greenling customer, go to Greenling.com and enter your zip code to verify they deliver in your area. Currently they deliver in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio areas.

“We would love to be able to bring our Greenling goodness to all corners of the earth and we’re trying as fast as our little roots will take hold to reach everyone that wants us. We hope to branch out to all those new areas someday, but until that happens, signing up on our mailing list is a great way to stay current with our growth.” McMenamin suggests that any future Greenling customer enters their zip code into the website (and get all of their friends and neighbors to do the same) so that they can see where there is demand for their service. This way Greenling can plan its expansion accordingly.

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The Heart of Champions Westlake A LOVE FOR GYMNASTICS IS PASSED ON TO WESTLAKE ATHLETES ARTICLE ALISSA PALLAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHAMPIONS WESTLAKE

I

n 1996 Gretchen Huddleston’s childhood passion turned into her dream career when Champions Westlake was founded. As a child Huddleston fell in love with gymnastics. Starting lessons at the age of 12, Huddleston experienced early success culminating in high school state championships and a gymnastics scholarship to the University of Texas. Beginning in high school, Huddleston's love for the sport expanded to coaching. Throughout high school and college, Huddleston coached at summer camps and programs.

"I developed an after school program for the school district in Georgetown and found I had just as much passion and talent for teaching as I did for competing. Those years laid the foundation for what eventually became Champions Westlake. I just loved coaching, and knew it was what I was meant to be doing," Huddleston says.

Huddleston launched Champions Westlake as a small recreational gymnastics program with 100 students; it quickly grew in popularity and moved into a 4,000-squarefoot gym facility at the back of a church.

For the next 15 years, Champions Westlake maintained a local following. Because of their location they had to set up and break down their equipment daily.

“It took a lot of work and dedication to make the program happen there for all those years,” Huddleston reflects, but it was worth keeping her dreams alive.

By 2011 Champions Westlake had grown substantially in size and moved to its permanent facility in the Mira Vista Shopping Center in Rollingwood. They again expanded the size of their facility to 26,000 square feet in 2014 in order to accommodate their ever-growing business.

Today, Champions Westlake has approximately 10 programs offered and an enrollment of 1,400+ during the regular season.

“We will have hosted 2,000 campers this

22

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

summer by the time we wrap up in August,” says Huddleston.

Champions Westlake is unique in that they focus on the development of the whole child, not just the athlete. “As coaches and teachers, we know that athletics is just a gateway to cultivate the whole child. We are able to engage with our athletes and teach life lessons as we teach skills. They learn self-discipline, to not be afraid to try new things, how to have fun, work in groups, share successes and most importantly, that mistakes are not failures; they are just a normal part of any learning curve and necessary to become who we ultimately want to be,” Huddleston says. This philosophy is supported by a culture of respect and encouragement, excellence and fun.

By listening to the needs of families and the community, Champions Westlake is constantly evolving. In addition to offering recreational gymnastics for preschoolers and elementary age children, they also have performance and competitive gymnastics teams as well as all-star cheerleading, parkour and T&T (trampoline & tumbling). Huddleston says their newest endeavors include launching a boys gymnastics program, adding parallel bars, rings and a pommel horse stations, expanding their Kaleidoscope Early Learning program to include Spanish and music as part of a longer day for preschool age students and rolling out a field trip program for elementary school kids.

A top-notch coaching staff coaches the athletes at Champions. Each coach is interviewed, observed in the act of coaching, monitored and assessed. Huddleston looks for not only technical skills, but also enthusiasm and the ability to inspire and motivate the athletes. Huddleston says, “Our coaches love the sport, love kids and want to make a difference in their lives. We all

have that in common and it creates an instant bond and makes us feel like family.”

In fact, Champions Westlake has become a rather large, humble, grateful family. Anywhere Huddleston goes within the community she tends to run into former Champions Westlake athletes, many who started out in the gym at the back of the church.

“Whether they continued with gymnastics or not, I’m always amazed at what great people they are. I like to believe our gym and coaches had a part of who they’ve become.

Inevitably they stop me and talk about their experience at Champions and all the things they loved and miss about it. It makes me feel tremendous to be a part of the history of their lives in such a positive way. One of the things I’m most proud of is that many of the kids who grew up going to Champions are junior counselors for summer camp and some are even coaches. Champions Westlake is truly a household name and has really become a part of Westlake families’ lives,” Huddleston says.

Champions has also become a family affair within Huddleston’s own family: son Holcombe works as marketing director, son Wilson coaches, daughter Georgia works summer camps, sister Ann is the executive director and niece Brooke is a coach and weekend floor manager.

“What a joy to be building my business with my family,” Huddleston says. She can see her childhood passions not only turning into her dream career but also having a future of their own. “With all three of my children actively involved in the business, I can see Champions moving into the future beyond me. Well beyond personal pride, I know that Champions will be a part of this community for the next generation of Austin kids.”

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Local Limelight

Sage and Sweetgrass Wellness Spa WHERE MEDICINE MEETS MEDITATION

ARTICLE ALISHA MCDARRIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SAGE AND SWEETGRASS WELLNESS SPA

T

he term holistic gets thrown around a lot these days, but when Dr. Alina Sholar, M.D., uses it to describe her Austin med-spa practice, she means it. Sage & Sweetgrass Wellness Spa is the only one of its kind in the city, offering full cosmetic surgery, medical aesthetic and spa services in an atmosphere of complete luxury.

Named for the herbs burned by Native Americans to anoint and purify, the med-spa offers services such as Laser Genesis skin rejuvenation, Botox and Ultherapy by licensed aestheticians and Sholar, a board certified plastic surgeon, but also massage, acupuncture and facials. It is holistic healing and divine indulgence all in one place; a place where mind, body and spirit can unite and rest.

For Sholar, though, it is about more than medical aesthetic practices like microdermabrasion and lip augmentation and indulgences like yoga and hydrotherapy, it’s about bringing peace and rejuvenation into the lives of the women she serves and helping them to love themselves. It’s her mission to let them know they are worth being taken care of so they can go out into the community and make positive changes in the world.

“I feel like this is part of my life’s journey to be able to give these gifts to other women,” Sholar says. “It’s about helping them discover their beauty within and reflect it elsewhere.”

24

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

It’s something she couldn’t see herself doing in the more traditional plastic surgery and med-spa practice she started in Indiana, so she returned home to Texas to fulfill her dream. She truly enjoys the medical element of her profession, but feels Dr. Alina Sholar called to be part of a bigger picture.

“I think plastic surgery is such a great field of medicine to be in,” Sholar says. “It really is the medicine of being beautiful and living well. We’ll teach you how to love yourself beautiful!”

Sholar opened Sage and Sweetgrass in Austin in 2014 where she knew her unique approach to wellness would be appreciated and her purpose would be fulfilled. It was somewhere she could reach people on a deeper level instead of simply making them feel good on the outside.

“I felt like I had a bigger calling than what I was originally trained to do,” Sholar says. “I'm not your average plastic surgeon.

I really enjoy having that personal relationship with my patients and getting to know them for the beautiful women they are.”

512.436.8018 4500 Steiner Ranch Blvd.

SageAndSweetGrassSpa.com

Now she revels in the opportunity to sit and listen to her patients, get to know their hopes and desires and work with them to craft a treatment and total wellness plan to help them be the best they can be. Through that fusion of modern and age-old treatments she can heal and indulge on the inside and out, bringing light and life into the world.

The Native American theme that the med-spa reflects is the best way she knew to make that happen, utilizing rituals and traditions inspired by indigenous people, including Elemental Journeys spa rituals, to rejuvenate, energize, purify, and uplift. Many incorporate the burning of the spa’s namesake herbs – sage to remove the negative and purify, sweetgrass to invite the positive and replenish – and aim to heal and balance as clients are restored to their best, most complete selves.

It’s all about the mind-body-spirit connection that Native Americans, and Sholar, revere.

“I have always felt very connected with the Native American way, and the land here in Central Texas is rich with history of indigenous people,” says Sholar.

Through guided meditation, reiki and intuitive quests, she brings that spiritual connection to others alongside the high tech medical offerings, helping heal women and teaching them to love themselves so they can be empowered to change the world.

The spa is an urban retreat; a respite from the stress of daily life and the rumble of business. It’s a sacred dwelling where relaxation, connection and nourishment are offered in many forms, from the native incense and decor to the calming color palette and Vichy showers, while lacking none of the services and amenities of a modern med-spa.

“We want you to feel transformed when you leave,” Sholar says. And not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, too.

September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

25

Driver’s Notebook

Keyless start helps drivers with arthritis.

The larger and brighter instrument dials aids drivers with vision problems.

(Volkswagen Passat)

Cars Being Made with Seniors in Mind SENIOR-FRIENDLY FEATURES MAKES DRIVING FUN & SAFE ARTICLE VAL VALDEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

D

riving the scenic Texas roadways is a joy for many drivers, young and old alike. But sadly, senior drivers may begin to experience health issues which could limit their ability while behind the wheel of a car, thus diminishing their driving pleasure and safety. According to AAA, 90 percent of motorists age 65 and older suffer from a variety of medical conditions, such as arthritis and vision problems. Fortunately, more cars with “senior friendly” features are available for older drivers to help offset the physical changes that come naturally as we age. Below are some points to consider when shopping for that perfect vehicle.

• HIP AND KNEE: For comfort and easier entry and exit, look for vehicles that have six-way adjustable power seats that move forward, backward, up and down, and the seat-back forward and backward.

Also make sure it has a low door threshold and seat heights that don’t require too much bending or climbing to get in and out. The ideal seat height for seniors is between mid-thigh and lower buttocks when standing beside the car. Nissan introduced “zero-gravity” seats in its 2013 mid-size Altima sedan that is based on posture research from NASA. The seat uses a unique shape with support from the pelvis to the chest that helps reduce spinal pressure and improves blood flow.

• STIFF UPPER BODY: Many seniors struggle with mobility issues in the back, neck, arms or shoulders. This results in difficulty looking over a shoulder to back up or merge into traffic. Help is available with adjustable and contoured lumbar support to soothe and support the back and shoulders. Front and rear parking sensors are another useful feature to help senior drivers maneuver their cars without too much twisting and turning. A large rear window gives better visibility, wide-angle mirrors minimize blind spots, and blind-spot warning systems alert the driver to objects in the way, all without painful turning of the upper body.

• ARTHRITIC HANDS: A common ailment for seniors is arthritic fingers and hands which lessens strength. To help combat this, choose a fourdoor car. These doors are smaller, lighter and easier to open and close than two-door models. Problems with painful gripping and turning may 26

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

plague seniors with arthritis. Look to trade in a conventional car key that requires twisting for a keyless entry and push-button ignition. Check out a thicker steering wheel as well, since it's easier to grip and helps maintain better control. Other user-friendly features for arthritic drivers include an automatic tailgate closer which was first introduced on the 2013 Ford Escape compact SUV. It allows activation of the power-operated liftgate with a tap of the foot under the rear bumper.

• DIMINISHED VISION: Drivers with vision loss due to cataracts, glaucoma, etc. should seek out vehicles with larger instrument panels and dashboard controls with contrasting text. Features such as extendable sun visors, larger audio and climate controls and auto-dimming low-glare mirrors can help seniors overcome their vision challenges behind the wheel. Those driving at night may benefit from adaptive headlamps that pivot along with the car’s steering angle to better light the way through curves; some headlights even automatically switch between high and low beams as needed to prevent blinding drivers in oncoming traffic.

All of these senior-friendly features are not available in every make and model. However, the automotive industry is adding more senior-friendly features each year to help keep senior drivers happy and safe on the roads.

Edmunds.com, a major online resource for automotive information, lists the following 10 vehicles as the best new cars with senior-friendly features designed to help older drivers. For more information about senior driving, go to SeniorDriving.AAA.com

Acura RDX SUV Audi A8 Sedan Ford Taurus Sedan Honda Accord Sedan Hyundai Sonata Sedan Lexus ES 350 Sedan Mazda CX-9 SUV Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan Toyota Avalon Sedan Volkswagen Passat

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Westlake Properties ADDRESS

LIST PRICE

BDRMS

BATH

1500 Barn Swallow DR

$535,000

3

2

2104 Apricot Glen DR

$615,595

3

2

3110 BRIGHTWOOD DR

$650,000

4

2

420 Brady LN

$650,000

2

3

1800 Stone Ridge CIR

$739,000

4

2

5006 Gregory PL

$895,000

3

3

435 Brady LN

$799,990

4

2

5009 Timberline DR

$835,000

3

2

111 Swiftcurrent TRL

$847,000

3

3

3 Grove CT

$900,000

5

3

1803 Intervail DR

$985,000

4

3

807 Westbrook DR

$1,100,000

4

3

3204 Kittowa CV

$1,299,000

5

3

4605 Golden Maize DR

$1,275,000

4

4

106 Kristy DR

$1,389,000

5

5

402 Inwood RD

$1,450,000

4

3

3316 Texas Star LN

$1,699,900

4

3

2905 Sparkling Brook LN

$1,890,000

4

6

4350 River Garden TRL

$2,985,000

6

7

1505 Mount Larson RD

$4,295,000

5

5

2913 Westlake CV

$6,900,000

4

5

Source: MLS. 07/1/15 -07/31/15

For exclusive videos of listings, visit MattSellsAustin.com Team West Real Estate, a Real Estate Brokerage

MATT HOLM 512.769.1695

REALTOR速, Certified Negotiation Expert, New Home Construction Specialist September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

29

Lifestyle Calendar

September

THURSDAYS UNPLUGGED AT THE GROVE THE SHADY GROVE

Join us on our iconic pecan tree shaded patio for one of Austin's longest running free live music series. This month's line up includes Gina Chavez, Walker Lukens, a special guest and Jimmy LaFave.

Don't miss out! We are in the last month of Unplugged at the Grove for 2015! TheShadyGrove.com

EVERY SATURDAY SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES HILL COUNTRY GALLERIA

The beloved concert series is back! Music begins at 7 p.m. in the outdoor amphitheater. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to lounge on the grassy lawn during the show. Browse the vendors, have to-go food delivered to your spot on the lawn while you sit back, relax, and enjoy this free event! HillCountryGalleria.com

EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY TEXAS FARMERS MARKET MUELLER

Head out to the TFM for home grown, fresh goodies. You will find produce, meats, demonstrations and much more! With three locations, this is a can’t-miss event! Saturdays at Lakeline from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Sundays at Mueller from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and the Domain from 3 - 6 p.m. TexasFarmersMarket.org

SEPTEMBER 1 - 7 OUT OF BOUNDS COMEDY FESTIVAL VARIOUS

The Out of Bounds Comedy Festival is a seven-day live performance festival that showcases some of the best in improv, sketch, stand-up, and a variety of comedy performances from all over the country and across the globe. Now in its 13th year, the festival averages over 500 performers in 120 shows on 8 different stages. OutOfBoundsComedy.com

SEPTEMBER 3 GALLERY NIGHT WEST END GALLERIES

Make every first Thursday Gallery Night! Spend the evening gallery hopping. Soak in the art and new exhibits with this fantastic art viewing opportunity! ArtAustin.org

SEPTEMBER 7 TRIROCK AUSTIN AUDITORIUM SHORES

This annual event takes place in the heart of downtown Austin. The urban setting provides a swim start at the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue 30

Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

with a swim course in Lady Bird Lake, fast and closed bike course over the Congress Street Bridge and finishes with a run along the Auditorium Shores running path. TriRock.Competitor.com

SEPTEMBER 7 FREE DAY OF YOGA VARIOUS

Participating studios across the Austin area offer free classes as an opportunity for people of every age and fitness level to: try yoga for the first time, experience a new style of yoga, visit a new studio or take a class from a new instructor, share yoga with friends and family and discover the benefits of yoga. FreeDayOfYoga.com

SEPTEMBER 10 WINE WALK HILL COUNTRY GALLERIA

Join us for an unique wine and social gathering experience as you get to know the eclectic mix of businesses in the Galleria. You will be sampling and discovering great wines from all over the world. Start at Twin Liquors to pick up a map that will guide you on the Wine Walk. HillCountryGalleria.com

SEPTEMBER 10 RED DOT ART SPREE WOMEN & THEIR WORK

Women & Their Work is a one-of-a-kind statewide, nonprofit organization. They will continue to bring the art of our time to Austin audiences and introduce the joy and wonder of art to more than 650 students in under served schools. Join us for the 20th Annual Red Dot Art Spree. WomenAndTheirWork.org

SEPTEMBER 11 ZILKER RELAYS ZILKER PARK

This is a 10-mile race with teams comprised of 4 runners. The team concept is not unique, but the combination of a relay, festival home base, beer garden and music, make this experience "family fun" and a favorite for runners of all calibers and ages. You don't have to train like a marathoner for this one. ZilkerRelays.com

SEPTEMBER 12 & 13 2015 FREESCALE CTX TOUR DE CURE FREESCALE SOUTH AUSTIN

The American Diabetes Association’s 2015 Freescale Central Texas Tour de Cure will provide an opportunity to ride the famous Central Texas Hill Country. The two day ride will leave from Freescale South Austin to Fredericksburg on Saturday and back to Freescale South Austin on Sunday. For more information and donations visit Diabetes.org/CTXTour.

SEPTEMBER 12 SATURDAYS ARE FOR FAMILIES

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12005 Bee Caves Rd. | Suite 1A Bee Cave, TX 78738

Every second Saturday of the month, The Contemporary Austin offers hands-on art-making workshops. This month's Drop in and Create is No-Rules Cardboard! It’s experimentation time! There are no rules to follow at this unique workshop. Make wearable art, smallscale sculptures, or even a fort out of a few basic materials. TheContemporaryAustin.org

SEPTEMBER 13 LAKE TRAVIS UNDERWATER CLEANUP

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VARIOUS LAKE TRAVIS LOCATIONS

Keep Austin Beautiful, Travis County, and Colorado River Alliance team up annually for the biggest scuba diving and shoreline cleanup in Texas. Cleanups are followed by a volunteer party from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Oasis on Lake Travis featuring free lunch, music, contests and children's activities. For volunteer opportunities and cleanup sites visit KeepAustinBeautiful.org.

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SEPTEMBER 14 BIG BAND BASH LAKEWAY ACTIVITY CENTER

Put on your dancing shoes and bring your own beverages and snacks to the Lakeway Activity Center. Enjoy big band music from the 17-piece Republic of Texas Big Band, featuring David Cummings and Lisa Clark on vocals. This event is free and open to all ages. Lakeway-Tx.gov

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BULLOCK MUSEUM

The Austin Film Festival teamed up with the Bullock Museum to bring you a series of Texas focused films. This series wraps up with the showing of Friday Night Lights which is based on H.G. Bissinger's book. The story profiles the economically depressed town of Odessa, Texas and their heroic high school football team, The Permian High Panthers.

TheStoryOfTexas.com

SEPTEMBER 19 PHYSIQUE AUSTIN

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PHYSIQUE is a one-of-a-kind medical, wellness, beauty and fashion expo that celebrates CONTINUED >

JIM & DORINDA MARTIN September 2015 | Lake Austin Lifestyle

31

Lifestyle Calendar

(CONTINUED)

SEPTEMBER 24 all elements of the body and highlights Austin’s unique style. Over 90 booths, a 2-hour runway show, men's corner, beauty bar, the art of aging beautifully, pop-up fashion district, prizes and giveaways all supporting Susan G Komen Austin. PhysiqueAustin.com

SEPTEMBER 19 TEXAS CRAFT BREWERS FESTIVAL

BOAT CRUISE LAKE TRAVIS

Set sail on the lake for an evening of fiesta fun! You will board a two-level boat with each floor providing inside and outside experiences. Mexican food and margaritas will be provided along with a mariachi band. Capacity is set at 75. Reserve your spot through WestlakeChamber.com.

SEPTEMBER 26 & 27

FIESTA GARDENS

This Festival is the state’s largest craft beer event focused exclusively on Texas-produced craft beer. With over 60 Texas brewers you are sure to get a sample of all your favorites. Various non-alcoholic drinks, and freshly prepared food will be available for purchase at the festival, along with plenty of free water to keep everyone hydrated. TexasCraftBrewersFestival.org

SEPTEMBER 20

PECAN STREET FESTIVAL SIXTH STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT

Attracting hundreds of local and national artisans offering original handcrafted creations in a variety of mediums from metal, wood, fiber, clay, leather, glass and stone to re-purposed materials of all kinds. There will be more than 50 of Austin’s top musical acts, over 30 food vendors and many kid-friendly activities available for your enjoyment. PecanStreetFestival.org

AUSTIN MUSEUM DAY

SEPTEMBER 26

VARIOUS AUSTIN MUSEUMS

SHARP PROPANE DAY

Austin Museum Day is a free, city-wide rediscovery of Austin museums held on the penultimate Sunday of the month of September.

It provides the public with free access to exhibits and activities representing more than 40 Austin cultural institutions.

For more information, contact Rebecca Marino at AustinMuseums.org.

AUSTIN ZOO

SEPTEMBER 21

Sharp’s propane tanks are key in keeping the habitats of these animals comfortable and warm. Join Sharp Propane and the Austin Zoo as they show their appreciation for the community. There will be t-shirts, tote bags, coloring books, a fun photo station, and other activities including a performance by Lucas Miller the singing zoologist. SharpPropane.com

20TH ANNUAL FOOD FOR THOUGHT SIGNATURE TASTING EVENT

SEPTEMBER 27

LONG CENTER FOR THE PEFORMING ARTS

CONCERT - BALCONES COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA

Austin's top chefs cook up decadent dishes as a part of this gourmet tasting event benefiting Communities In Schools of Central Texas.

Join us on the beautiful Long Center City Terrace as we celebrate 30 years of excellence in Central Texas and cook up support for our critical dropout prevention services. CisCentralTexas.org

LAKEWAY ACTIVITY CENTER

The Balcones Community Orchestra, a 36-piece symphony, will perform a concert at the Lakeway Activity Center. This concert is free and open to the public. Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, and picnic dinner; this is sure to be an enjoyable evening. Lakeway-Tx.gov

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Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

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33

Parting Thoughts

A Community of Crayons WORDS AND PICTURE VAL VALDEZ

I

n the past, I knew summer was ending when my tan faded from burnt umber to light gold. But as the mother of a 12 year old, the lazy days of summer are officially over when the back-to-school sales start.

It's a rite of passage for every American family. As my daughter Madie and I walked into the Super Walmart at Parmer and IH-35 shortly after 9 a.m., we blended into a sea of parents and children all following the same, silent command – go forth and shop for school stuff. Now, there is no denying the communal feeling that grows quickly among strangers with a shared goal, whether it's surviving a zombie invasion or shopping for washable markers, it's the sense that we're all in this adventure together.

Upon entering the store, I spotted the table with the school supply lists, and to my surprise, another parent handed one to me along with a quick smile before she marched off. In those first few seconds is when school shoppers, novices and veterans alike, join the ranks, like soldiers going into battle, because there is strength in numbers. We took our shopping cart, which was as big as a tank, and steered it past the rack of discounted pastries, a diversion, and aimed for the school bins. Instantly, shelves of neon colored binders, My Little Pony folders, and glue sticks confronted us - neat, precise rows standing at attention.

Already dozens of shoppers crammed the aisles, so I took a pause that seemed to last as long as Handel's Messiah gathering my strength then pushed the cart forward. I felt Madie's slightly sweaty palm grip my wrist, but there was no retreating. As we entered the crowd, I heard a mother say sternly, “Don't get me started on crayons, 'cuz 96 of anything is enough.” Several other parents nodded their approval with comments of “That's right!” and “Why does colored wax cost so much anyway?”

Slowly maneuvering my way through the throng, I saw a few shoppers in a huddle sharing a calculator and swapping coupons.

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Lake Austin Lifestyle | September 2015

When a curious, young father glanced their way, one in the huddle asked if he needed a coupon for baby wipes. He nodded yes and received one saying thanks to the group. Another mom called a comrade on her cell phone to ask a strategic question, “How much did a large dry erase marker board cost at Target?” The answer convinced her to keep the one in her cart.

In the brief time I was there, small groups of parent-shoppers had already formed alliances ready to help each other. No one was shy. A conversation occurred when a Kim Kardashian lookalike mom dressed all in black asked a pink sun dress mom if she knew how long a thermos lunch box really stayed cold. She did, about three-hours, but don't push it. For the most part, Madie and I were fine on our own until she insisted on a new, Guardians of the Galaxy back pack – or she would die. We couldn't find one among the Hobbit, Batman and Frozen book bags until I spotted some on the top shelf out of my reach. Yet without hesitation, I pointed and asked aloud, “Can someone get that book bag for me, please?” Almost at once, two people stepped forward with arms outstretched to get it and place it into Madie's grateful arms. When I grabbed the required two bottles of hand sanitizer, I heard one father say with a tone of desperation, "Oh, God give me strength," as he saw packs of pencils fly into carts. Obviously, he was a newbie, but an unknown woman with streaks of purple in her hair patted his arm for reassurance.

As we checked out and left, I wanted to think that our instant, make-shift “community” of school shoppers was typical of people nationwide, glad to help out when they can. After all, a community is not just brick and mortar houses, it's a feeling we carry with us. Sometimes it is as simple as sharing coupons, getting a price check from a friend at Target or comforting a stranger when the washable markers sell out.

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