West Austin, TX June 2023

YOSHI OKAI, HEAD CHEF AT OTOKO RESTAURANT

Celebrating the Men of West Austin

As we shine a spotlight on the positive impact of men in our community this June, we want to acknowledge their contributions and influence. Whether you are fathers, business owners, community leaders, or mentors, your leadership and positive actions make a difference in the lives of those around you.

One of my earliest memories with my father was waking up in the early morning hours, before the sun, to go fishing. Despite my grumbles, he explained that to be rewarded with a good day’s fishing, we had to be on the lake before sunrise. He also taught me the importance of planning and preparation. From monitoring weather, to preparing bait, to tying the knots – all were critical to our success. His guidance provided me with a solid foundation for navigating life’s challenges and helped me grow and become the best version of myself.

While we celebrate fatherhood this month, let us also acknowledge the incredible power and privilege that men have in shaping and mentoring the young people in their lives. Your dedication to putting others first, working hard, and making a positive impact in our community is commendable. You inspire and motivate others with your actions and words, and your influence reaches far and wide, touching the lives of many.

In our June Gentleman's issue, we honor and appreciate your outstanding contributions to West Austin. Your actions are shaping the next generation and creating a better community for all, and we applaud you!

We hope you enjoy this month's issue. Happy June, and happy Father's Day!

BRYAN STONE, PUBLISHER

@WESTAUSTINCITYLIFESTYLE

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Bryan Stone | Bryan.Stone@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Wood | michelle.wood@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Rebecca Boswell | Rebecca@rebeccaboswell.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Josh Branstetter | JoshBranst@gmail.com

Kim Ortiz | Kim@kimortiz.com

Jessica Rockowitz | JessicaRockowitzPhoto@gmail.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Kyoto Roots, Austin Energy

Photography: Courtesy of Chad Wadsworth and OTOKO

Chef Yoshi Okai, the mastermind behind OTOKO restaurant, creates a unique multi-course omakase experience that blends the flavors of Tokyo-style sushi and Kyoto-style kaiseki.

“Excellent and smart diagnosis and immediate repair, with a true service culture. I felt like my tech was looking after my best interests. Very fine folks. Highly recommend them.”

“We are very happy with the services provided and are delighted to find a company that can provide so many services that we are in need of.”

“Straight up heroes!! We have had the best service from Efficient. We have called on them over the past 10 years... They are very responsive, professional, honest and get the job done without charging an arm and a leg.”

Mike P.

Ramona F.

Betsy D.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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Tag your Instagram photos with @WestAustinCityLifestyle

1: Cruising into Father’s Day with the perfect gift for Dad, thanks to Covert Cadillac! 2: Publisher Bryan Stone and son Declan strike up 7th birthday celebrations at High 5 Lakeway. 3: Welcome Kim Ortiz Portrait Art to the West Lake Chamber of Commerce Family! 4: Happy faces on the greens at Lakecliff Golf Club’s Spring Member Guest Event. 5: Antonio Meza of Sunburst Shutters savoring the moment with his Sons in West Austin. 6: Cupcake MVP! Former NFL Star Michael Griffin, showcasing his bakery, Gigi’s Cupcakes in Bee Cave. 7: Closing out an unforgettable Saturday Night Concert Series at Hill Country Galleria!

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business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Boost Performance and Longevity Center

Elevate your health to new heights at Boost Performance and Longevity Center! Founded by Dr. Steven Conroy and equipped for specialized, meticulously individualized medical assessments, the Boost Center is designed to focus on offering the best functional integrative medicine. It combines Eastern and Western medical traditions to create comprehensive and highly targeted treatment plans. Their goal is to always identify the root cause of a problem and address it directly. Discover more at BoostPLC.com .

Photography: Boost Performance and Longevity Center

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Elite Detail Pros

When it comes to Dad's ride, only the best will do. Give him the gift of a pristine vehicle with Elite Detail Pros! As a full-service mobile car wash and detail company serving West Austin, Prashant Patel, the CEO of Elite Detail Pros, believes in providing car washing services that clean, shine, and protect your vehicle inside and out. "Clean With Confidence" and schedule a full service detailing  at EliteDetailPros.com

Photography: Elite Detail Pros

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Gigi's Cupcakes Bee Cave

Indulge in delicious Gigi's Cupcakes! Powered by Food Network's "The Cupcake Guys", former NFL players Brian Orakpo and Michael Griffin, and their best friend Bryan Hynson. From mini cupcakes by the dozen to large orders with customized decorations, their desserts satisfy every sweet tooth. Plus, they offer gluten-friendly, vegan, and sugar-free cupcakes upon request. Treat your loved ones and visit their bakery located at 3944 Ranch Rd 620 S #130, Bee Cave, TX 78738.

Photography: The Cupcake Guys

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Magnify Electric

Magnify Electric, a family-owned electrical contracting company founded in 2012 by James Dougherty, is dedicated to delivering professional, safe, and high-quality work at a reasonable price. With 15 years of industry experience, their aim is to provide electrical services that serve residential and commercial clients with excellence, empower employees, and give back to the community they love. They pledge distinctive quality and unparalleled customer service, gaining respect and trust. Schedule your service at MagnifyElectric.com .

Photography: Magnify Electric

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TXB Stores

Experience the TXB difference, led by CEO Kevin Smartt. With 48+ stores across Texas and Oklahoma, including West Austin, TXB goes beyond the ordinary convenience store. Their restaurant-style family of stores offers fresh-made food, drinks, and special conveniences. With a motto of "Leave 'Em Better," TXB is committed to providing high-quality food and first-class service, reflecting authentic Texas roots and values of authenticity, hospitality, and integrity. Find a location near you at TXBStores.com/Locations .

Photography: TXB Stores

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Retreat as Bold as its Home State

Whorton Insurance Services

When it comes to protecting their business, clients can trust Whorton Insurance Services as their reliable partner. Jim Whorton, along with his knowledgeable team, is committed to providing clients with the necessary resources and guidance to safeguard their operations. Regardless of the size or type of their business, Jim Whorton and his team will deliver personalized insurance solutions to ensure both work trucks and entire businesses are properly safeguarded. Discover more at WhortonIns.com .

Photography: Whorton Insurance Services

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Ten Thousand Pots

Add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space this summer with beautiful handmade pottery from Ten Thousand Pots. Their collection of Vietnamese, Chinese, Terracotta, and Talavera pottery is the largest in central Texas, and their commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched. From glazed plant pots to elegant fountains and yard ornaments, find the perfect piece to complement your outdoor space at TenThousandPots.com or discover the endless possibilities at 12006 US-290 Austin, TX 78737

Photography: Ten Thousand Pots

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WestAustin

Lakeway Landscaping Company

Lakeway Landscaping Company is your one-stop shop for everything outdoors. The full-service landscape design + build group offers clients with innovative outdoor living spaces designed to fit their lifestyles. With years of innovative design experience and expertise in local materials and native/ adapted plants, they bring an ecologically sound approach to every project. The team takes pride in solving problems creatively and turning difficult situations into aesthetically pleasing and highly functional assets. Discover more at LakewayLandscapingCo.com

Photography: Lakeway Landscaping Company

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Gatsby's Clothier

Gatsby's Clothier, located in the Hill Country Galleria of Bee Cave, offers timeless styles that you won't find anywhere else. Since 2013, their team offers a wide selection of sophisticated brands, including Vineyard Vines, Askari, Faherty, David Donahue, Robert Graham, and Johnston Murphy shoes. In addition, Gatsby's has an on-site tailor who provides personalized service to ensure clients find the perfect fit. Shop locally at 110 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738

Photography: Gatsby’s Clothier

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16

JUNE

local experiences

Plan a memorable day, weekend, or guys' night out and explore any one of these local experiences curated exclusively for gentlemen in West Austin.

ATX BEER BUS TOUR: Brewery Tour: Hop on board the ATX Beer Bus Tour and discover the finest craft brews or visit our favorites, Frontyard Brewing and Pinthouse Brewing ! 3133 Armaga Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78731

LAKECLIFF GOLF CLUB: Visit a Golf Course: Tee off at Spicewood's Lakecliff Golf Club near Highland Lakes in the Hill Country, and enjoy the greens alongside your buddies. 1700 Kahala Sunset Dr, Spicewood, TX 78669

LAKEWAY MARINA: Kayaking or Paddle Boarding: Get a full-body workout by renting a paddle board or kayak from Lakeway Marina on Lake Travis's south shore.  103 A Lakeway Dr, Austin, TX 78734

CONCOURSE PROJECT: Live Music and Entertainment: Immerse yourself in Austin's live music scene at Concourse Project, a warehouse turned destination venue tailored towards world-class production. 8509 Burleson Rd, Austin, TX 78719

Q2 STADIUM: Sporting Events: Join the excitement of game day at the  Q2 Stadium , home to Austin FC, and root for your favorite soccer team. 10414 Mc Kalla Pl, Austin, Texas 78758

Photography Courtesy of Gracie Byrd Jones and Lakecliff Golf Club

MEN OF INFLUENCE

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD

RECOGNIZING THE EXCEPTIONAL LEADERS AND VISIONARIES

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WEST AUSTIN

Celebrating West Austin’s Most Influential Leaders

In every industry, there are leaders and visionaries who push boundaries and shape the future. These men of influence inspire and impact the community around us. Some have taken a bold approach, challenging the status quo and leaving a lasting impact on their peers. Moreover, they have invested in the next generation, mentoring and guiding aspiring leaders to uphold values of integrity, passion, and excellence.

Their resilience and determination have earned them a place at the top of their respective fields, from arts and entertainment to healthcare, finance to real estate, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. It is with great admiration that we recognize Andrew Bennett, Dr. Steve Conroy, James Dougherty, Gary Dolch, George Drazic, Eduardo Guerra, Nikolas Hazel, David Manning, Joe Mohrfeld, Yoshi Okai, Steve Vinklarek, and Chad Worner for their positive impact on the West Austin community and our world. They are an inspiration to us all, and we are grateful for their leadership and invaluable contributions.

Celebrating Community Champions in West Austin

Andrew Bennett

Bennett Creative Boost Performance and Longevity Center

Andrew Bennett is an Executive Producer, Director and member of the West Austin Chamber of Commerce. He believes that “the industry can often be rough around the edges,” but provides clients an uplifting, encouraging environment. His background in corporate sales led him to make a career change in 2014, when he apprenticed with an award-winning film director in Austin. Since then, he has worked with hundreds of brands to help craft their visual narrative.

Beyond his work in the video industry, Andrew is also a lifelong musician and passionate supporter of the Austin music scene. He was even voted “Best Live Music Photographer” by the Austin Chronicle several years ago. In 2018, Andrew and his wife Dorothy founded Bennett Creative, a company that specializes in video production services. Andrew’s commitment to creating uplifting and encouraging work environments is a testament to his passion for helping others succeed.

Dr. Steve Conroy

Dr. Steven Conroy’s passion for health and wellness can be traced back to his father, who worked tirelessly while struggling with obesity, diabetes, and related complications. This inspired Dr. Conroy to optimize his own health and the health of others. “I think the greatest impact in my life’s direction has come from my father, who passed away last year from Prostate Cancer,” says Dr. Conroy.

Dr. Conroy’s commitment to his patients is evident in his practice, Boost Performance and Longevity Center, where he combines his expertise in functional/integrative medicine with personal experience as an endurance athlete. “I want to show them that various nutritional interventions, exercise, sleep, along with detections of various blood markers and tests can help us stratify, and intervene to mitigate long term risks. All with the goal of achieving healthspan optimization to live as long as they can with minimal effects on their overall health.”

Courtesy of Boost Performance and Longevity Center

James Dougherty

Magnify Electric

James Dougherty, owner of Magnify Electric, believes that trust and integrity are what set his business apart. “We are an electrical contracting company that people can put their trust in because we stand behind our work,” he says. Faith has been a significant influence on his personal and professional life. “The man who has had the greatest impact on my life and where it is headed is my relationship with Jesus,” he shares. Additionally, his mentor Benny Bird gave him the confidence to establish Magnify Electric in 2012.

James and his team are dedicated to delivering quality services that “Magnify” their clients’ homes and businesses. They also give back by supporting local nonprofits, such as the Hays Caldwell Women’s Center and Lake Travis High School PTO. James explains, “It is our goal at Magnify Electric to give back to the community that has given so much to us.”

Gary Dolch

Austin Luxury Group

Gary Dolch, an extraordinary entrepreneur and real estate professional, is the co-owner of Dolch Properties Inc. and Austin Luxury Group, and a founding agent of COMPASS alongside his wife Michelle. He has a deep appreciation for hard work and the value of strong relationships, saying, “I always understood the value of working with people you like and have always tried to surround myself with people smarter than me.”

At just 13 years old, Gary started his first company and employed six of his closest friends, marking the beginning of his impressive career as an entrepreneur. He went on to found three corporations before the age of 30, taking two of them through successful seed and angel rounds of investor financing. Gary’s success serves as a reminder that we can all strive for excellence in our personal and professional lives while staying grounded and connected to the people we love.

Courtesy of Magnify Electric

Courtesy of Austin Luxury Group

George Drazic

Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing

George Drazic, president of Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing, is a true embodiment of fearlessness and dedication. These are qualities instilled in him by his mother. “She was an immigrant who fought to become a US citizen, became accomplished in microbiology and gave up her career to raise me,” he said. “She told me not to be so fearful of losing money, but rather to fear not chasing my dreams.”

He and his wife, Molly, purchased Efficient in 2008 and have grown its team and offerings. “We are not scared of specialties,” Drazic said. Though the company’s roots are in construction, residential and commercial service is now its largest division. Drazic is a board member of Skillpoint Alliance, a nonprofit providing free training in skilled trades and manufacturing. He is passionate about promoting careers in these areas and has hired many Skillpoint graduates, helping to support and elevate the community.

Eduardo Guerra

First United Bank

Eduardo Guerra is an accomplished AVP Financial Center Manager and Bank Officer at First United Bank - Lakeway. Eduardo credits his father for instilling in him values that have contributed to his success. He says, “My father had a huge impact on my life’s direction.” He goes on to share, “We believe everyone has an important role to play for the companies’ success no matter what their responsibilities are.”

As a community leader, Eduardo believes in making a positive impact on the lives of others. He is proud to work for a bank whose values align with his own. He explains, “Through our values (Faith, Family, and Integrity) we are working on impacting 10 million lives by 2030. We work hard on delivering the very best employee and customer experience. Our goal is to help our communities flourish through continued mentorship of ourselves and others to Spend Life Wisely.”

Courtesy of First United Bank

Nikolas Hazel

Nikolas Alan Jewelers

Nikolas Hazel is the distinguished designer and owner of Nikolas Alan Jewelers in Lakeway, with over 25 years of experience in geology, gemology, and creating high-end jewelry. “We take pride in our work and are self-critical of our quality workmanship. We strive to put out the highest quality in every facet of our services,” he says.

Nik credits his first boss and employer in the jewelry industry for inspiring him to pursue his dreams and establish his own successful business. He explains, “I often think of quotes and business practices that I learned from him over the 14 years that I worked for him and put those words and ideas into practice in my own business.” Recently, Nik’s custom sapphire pendant set a new record for the highest bid item at the Lake Travis Education Foundation Gala, reinforcing his position as a celebrated figure in the world of fine jewelry.

David Manning

David

Manning Architecture

David Manning, the architect behind David Manning Architecture, had a passion for design that was sparked at the age of five. “As a child, I roamed my grandmother’s ranch and observed the movement of shadows cast by rock outcroppings and large boulders in the fields,” Manning recalls. Today, he draws from his bachelor’s degrees in both architecture and fine arts/sculpture to help people realize their building dreams.

“All of our projects are heartfelt responses to our client’s needs,” Manning says. His dedication to green building has led to some notable achievements, including being featured on the American Institute of Architects Homes Tour and in the book “Luxury Homes of Texas.” Manning emphasizes the importance of active listening, stating, “We value listening highly and have several favorable customer reviews available. Customer service is key to us. We want our customers to feel blessed at the end of our work together.”

Courtesy of Kim Ortiz Portrait Art and Nikolas Alan Jewelers

Courtesy of David Manning Architecture

Joe Mohrfeld

Pinthouse Brewing

Joe Mohrfeld, Co-founder and Brewmaster at Pinthouse, values hard work, entrepreneurship, and enjoying life to the fullest. His personal values and character are shaped by his grandfather and father. Joe’s father is his best friend, reminding him “to have fun and not take life too seriously,” while Joe’s grandfather, who has owned and operated his restaurant for the past 58 years, is the one who Joe says “instilled the entrepreneurial mindset I have today.”

Since the early days at Pinthouse, Joe has been committed to being a part of Austin’s fabric, leading community-based philanthropic programs, such as The House That Beer Built through Habitat for Humanity. His team brews charitable beers, with a portion of the sales supporting organizations that promote diversity, community, and the local environment. “I am very proud of this at Pinthouse, as it provides both myself and the business with a stronger connection to our community.”

Yoshi Okai

OTOKO

Yoshi Okai, the head chef of OTOKO and musician, brings a wealth of culinary experience and high energy to the table. Born and raised in Kyoto, Japan, he was immersed in the culinary traditions of his family’s catering company. After moving to Austin in 1998, Yoshi found inspiration in the local music scene, citing Mike Carroll from Poison 13 as a legend and praising the Big Boys’ cool style.

“Their music really influenced me and made me realize that I didn’t need to be put into a box to be great,” Yoshi says. He has since devoted himself to the art of crafting an omakase dining experience, and his dedication has earned him a reputation as one of the most respected chefs in the industry. His talent has been recognized by numerous publications, including Food & Wine Magazine in 2017 and the Austin Chronicle’s First Plates Award in 2019.

Courtesy of Pinthouse Brewing

Courtesy of Marshall Tidrick and OTOKO

Steve Vinklarek

State Farm Insurance

Steve Vinklarek, a proud native Texan, has been serving the Greater Austin area since 1998 as a second-generation State Farm Insurance Agent. He is a State Farm Chairman’s Circle & President’s Club Agent and a Million Dollar Round Table Agent for life insurance. Steve attributes his strong work ethic to his father, Don Vinklarek, who was a State Farm Agent in Houston. “He taught me how to work hard at a very young age,” says Steve.

With his work ethic in tow, Steve carried his commitment to service through college with the Pappas restaurant family and now provides an amazing level of service to many families in West Austin. “My family works hard to give our time and donations,” shares Steve. He and his family proudly support charities such as Mobile Loaves & Fishes, FIT (Food & Tummies), ASPA, Make A Wish, Pop-up Birthday, and Austin Crop Walk.

Chad Worner

Frontyard Brewing

Chad, who owns Frontyard Brewing, is passionate about providing a space for people to come together and create lasting memories over craft beer or other cold beverages. The brewery’s core beliefs reflect this commitment to community, with a focus on fostering connections that turn neighbors into friends and friends into family. Frontyard Brewing also supports local non-profits that make a positive impact on women, children, and schools.

Chad’s philosophy on life has been shaped by several influential men, including his father, grandfather, and other leaders from his church and small groups. He credits his father for teaching him “that within every problem there is always a solution,” and his grandfather for imparting wisdom to “mind your pennies and the dollars will take care of themselves.” These mentors have helped him remain grounded, humble, and focused on what matters most: people.

Courtesy of Steve Vinklarek

Courtesy of Frontyard Brewing

You have what others dream of.

M 512-351-5083 | O 512-328-3939

Chelsea Kumler@evrealestate com ChelseaKumler evrealestate com

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Marisa Alderete@evrealestate com

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Emanuel 360 Nueces St #3603 | $575,000 | Carrie Yeager 121 Burgess Ln | $1,895,000 | Michele Turnquist

12811 River Bend | $5,500,000 | Jeff Ohman

1903 Meadowbrook Dr | $2,799,000 | Connie

| Michele Turnquist

"The OG pizza is so freaking good! They have a nice environment and good beer!"

- Gisselle G.

"Has both one of the best IPAs and pizza that I’ve had to date. Great atmosphere."

- J. Ryan V.

"Had an amazing pizza at Pinthouse. It was possibly the best pizza I have ever had. I ordered the Pepperoni and man it was good! I also enjoyed my beer and the atmosphere was very chill and inviting!"

- Craig G.

"Lots

choices for both beer and food. Great pizza! This place is huge! Huge outdoor covered area (dog friendly) and large bar inside - and they have space on a second level for private events. Highly recommend."

- Sarah K.

Growing your business and connecting with your community have never been more important. Let the West Austin Chamber assist you in reaching your goals and making connections.

REBECCA BOSWELL, MA, MBA, PCC offers Transformational Coaching for Empowered Living. With over 10+ years of holistic coaching experience, she blends practical principles, wellness concepts, and mindset tools to offer a unique approach to guide, support and empower your heart and mind for inspired next steps.

WHAT ARE YOU READY TO LEAN INTO? YOUR PATH IS UNIQUE. YOU DON’T HAVE TO NAVIGATE IT ALONE.

For information on these events or to join us, check out the West Austin Chamber website: www.westaustinchamber.org

ARTICLE BY REBECCA BOSWELL

SAME, SAME, BUT DIFFERENT

When I lived in Hawaii, one of my Austrian cousins came to visit on his trip around the world. His most recent adventure had included driving across the Australian Outback in an old VW bus named Ruth, but before that he had been in Indonesia.

While perusing items at an Indonesian market, any time something would catch his eye, a shopkeeper would enthusiastically offer several similar pieces, while repeating in English, “Same, same, but different!”

20 years later and I think of this phrase often. It’s an oxymoron, right? How can two things be the same and different at the same time? Which one is it…the same or different?

But life isn’t that simple. Reality is not painted in the black and white landscape of polar opposites. It is nuanced and reflected in many shades.

I was in a discussion recently around mindfulness and meditation and found myself remarking internally… “same, same, but different!”

Mindfulness is the practice of slowing down, getting present, and fully experiencing and noticing what’s going on, without judgment.

MINDFULNESS & MEDITATION

Meditation is the practice of quieting the mind, noticing the active chatter of the conscious mind, and focusing your attention on something like your breath instead of engaging your thoughts.

Same, same, right? In some ways yes, but not entirely. Without practicing some level of mindfulness, practicing meditation would be virtually impossible. That said, you can be mindful without necessarily engaging in the specific practice of meditation.

Both meditation and mindfulness rely heavily on your ability to root yourself in the current moment, experiencing it with depth and intention, while simultaneously practicing the release of judgment.

This month you can practice more mindfulness by slowing down and noticing the world around you in greater detail as you move through it. Notice what you are experiencing and the details of how you are experiencing it. What is your perception of external circumstances and how does your internal world respond?

By interacting more thoughtfully with what you are experiencing, you begin to spend less time living on autopilot and more time living from a more conscious space. This means you are able to glean more from the choices you are making and the experiences you are having.

Next time you are walking to or from your car, taking an elevator, or eating a meal, you can practice increased mindfulness by tuning into each of your senses, and noticing what your mind has to say about it all without judgment.

With greater presence, we are able to cultivate more meaningful life experiences, while reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and improving self-awareness. With regular practice throughout the day, we can improve sleep and decrease the potential for burnout.

Meditation takes mindfulness a step further, since you cannot slip into a state of meditation without first being present and heightening your moment to moment awareness.

To help transition from mindfulness to meditation, find a comfortable spot and either relax your gaze or close your eyes. Begin to focus on your breath. As you inhale and exhale, notice everything going on inside and out, without engaging any particular thoughts about it.

If you struggle with sitting still, you can try a walking meditation in which you define a specific distance, or circular path, and focus all of your attention on the experience of each subtle shift and sensation, as your body moves through space.

Ultimately, mindfulness is a prerequisite for meditation and meditation helps you have more ease being mindful in your everyday life.

Both mindfulness and meditation can offer great physical, mental, and emotional value in similar ways making them, “same, same, but different.”

Visit  RebeccaBoswell.com/Connect to create what’s next with more mindfulness and a meditation practice.

OTOKO: KYOTO ROOTS, AUSTIN ENERGY

A Conversation with Chef Yoshi Okai and Manager Billy Weston of Austin’s Acclaimed Omakase Experience

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OTOKO

From the moment you step inside OTOKO, the 12-seat Japanese restaurant located in the historic South Congress Hotel, you can instantly sense that something extraordinary is about to take place. The sophisticated interior and intimate setting lay the foundation for an unrivaled Tokyo-style sushi and Kyoto-style kaiseki culinary experience.

OTOKO’s Head Chef Yoshi Okai and General Manager Billy Weston spoke with us about the inspiration and philosophy behind their unique concept. New Waterloo Hospitality set the stage for a new era of omakase-style dining in Austin with the opening of OTOKO in 2015. Since then, Chef Yoshi has received prestigious culinary awards and accolades, such as being named one of Food

Omakase Experience by Yoshi Okai, Head Chef of OTOKO, Courtesy of Chad Wadsworth

& Wine’s Best New Chefs in 2017. As Billy puts it, “The uniqueness of OTOKO lies in the intentionality behind what Yoshi produces as far as food, paired with an equally intentional beverage program.”

Incorporating the Japanese way of using ingredients is a constant consideration for Chef Yoshi during his creative process. “I’m always thinking, so when I see a product, I think ‘Oh! I can use this with this, and try it out. And of course, I always get inspiration when I’m drinking tequila! Music also inspires me,” shares Okai. His decision to move to Austin was motivated by his love for punk rock music and legendary figures like Mike Carroll from Poison 13 and Big Boys. “It’s less about a strict philosophy and more about being inspired by my surroundings,” he explains.

One of the most remarkable aspects of OTOKO’s omakasestyle dining is the opportunity to watch him in action up close, as he expertly slices fish and delicately arranges ingredients on

the plate. “Yoshi and I are both very focused on how to make OTOKO better on a day-by-day basis,” says Billy. OTOKO’s commitment to the local and global food and beverage community is evident through its partnerships with eco-conscious purveyors and local producers like Hausbar Farms and Hifi Mycology. “I’ve always worked hard at highlighting lesser known beverage producers, small lot wine growers, new to the market sake brewers with the intention of showcasing these fantastic products.”

OTOKO is a harmonious blend of tradition and inspiration, where music and cuisine come together. If you are fortunate enough to secure a seat at OTOKO, you will experience an unforgettable culinary journey that will stay with you long after you leave. In Billy’s words, “Being rooted in a traditional Japanese experience with a distinctly Yoshi Okai flair to the menu is what makes OTOKO so special.”

Billy Weston, General Manager of OTOKO, Courtesy of Marshall Tidrick

Yoshi Okai, Head Chef of OTOKO, Courtesy of Chad Wadsworth

serving Austin since 2003

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

FRIDAYS

Live on the Lawn

12700 HILL COUNTRY BLVD, BEE CAVE, TX 78738 | 6:30 PM

Kick off your weekend at Hill Country Galleria's Central Plaza Lawn with their Friday evening live music series! With an incredible lineup of talented musicians playing classic rock, country, or pop, you're sure to find a performance that will get you dancing and singing along. Bring your family, friends, or pets to enjoy the fun. Discover more at HillCountryGalleria.com/Events.

JUNE 3RD

Contracommon’s Third Annual Summer Arts Festival

12700 HILL COUNTRY BLVD, BEE CAVE, TX 78738 | 2:00 PM

Experience vibrant local arts and celebrate our community at Contracommon's Third Annual Summer Arts Festival! From 2pm to 8pm, attendees can enjoy unique creations from 45+ vendors, live music, and free art activities in the Children's Art Garden at Hill Country Galleria's central plaza. Admission is free and supports emerging artists and makers of Central Texas. Learn more at Contracommon.org/Calendar

JUNE 3RD

There’s a gap in America’s Healthcare System

There is a growing movement in medicine focused on expanding the human healthspan, the length of time that we have the cognitive and neuromuscular health to be active and engaged in the world around us. Our healthspan is the time that we spend living as our full selves. We all deserve to have our healthspan match our lifespans as closely as possible, and that’s where individualized, integrative medicine comes in.

Boost was founded by Dr. Steven Conroy, whose background adds training in both functional and integrative medicine to 15+ years as an emergency room physician and a lifetime of athletic performance and achievement. There are few clinics in the world that combine the resources, experience, expertise, and creativity that we are proud to offer.

Summer Nights Business Awards Ceremony

12525 BEE CAVE PKWY BEE CAVE, TX 78738 | 7:00 PM

Join the Bee Cave Chamber of Commerce in honoring the outstanding members of the community! The winners will be announced during the event at the Sonesta Hotel and will include dinner and drinks. Sponsorship for Summer Nights provided by Kim Ortiz Portrait Art. Member

Tickets are $50.00 and Non-Member

Tickets are $75.00. Tables are available for purchase at BeeCaveChamber ofCommerce.com/Calendar.

Father’s Day Steak Kebabs

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD

Juicy Steak Kebabs

active time: 10 min

total time: 25 min. + marinate time serves: 4

ingredients for the kebabs:

• 1 ¼ lbs. Sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into 1 ¼-inch cubes

• 2 medium bell peppers, any color, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 pt. cherry tomatoes

ingredients for the marinade:

• 2 tbsp. tamari or soy sauce

• 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

• ½ tsp. garlic powder

• ½ tsp. dried Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp. black pepper

directions

1. To prepare steak kebabs, cube the steak and marinate it for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours) in a shallow bowl with mixed marinade ingredients. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).

2. After marinating, assemble the kebabs by threading the steak, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers onto skewers. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat until cooked to your liking. Once cooked, serve the kebabs with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!

Fire Up the Grill for these Flavor-Packed Steak Kebabs

Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to fire up the grill and treat Dad to a special meal. These juicy steak kebabs are sure to impress Dad and show him how much you love and appreciate him. Paired with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, these Kebabs are not only colorful but also nutritious. So, grab your skewers and get ready to grill up a delicious Father’s Day feast!