One Step Closer to Abbey House

ARTS + CULTURE
THE ABIGAIL E. KELLER FOUNDATION BRINGS TEXAS CLOSER TO ITS FIRST PEDIATRIC RESPITE AND HOSPICE CENTER.
AUGUST 2025










































ARTS + CULTURE
THE ABIGAIL E. KELLER FOUNDATION BRINGS TEXAS CLOSER TO ITS FIRST PEDIATRIC RESPITE AND HOSPICE CENTER.
AUGUST 2025
Dear neighbor,
This issue means a lot to me, not just as a publisher, but as a parent. Kids remind us what really matters. Their questions, energy, and wild imaginations bring life into every room they enter. They're the future of our community. We spend so much time and care helping them grow, but the truth is, they shape us just as much. They bring out our patience, our humor, our creativity, and our ability to slow down and be present.
And then there are our pets. Loyal, loving, and sometimes a little chaotic, they offer comfort and teach us the kind of responsibility and empathy that sticks with us. There’s something uniquely special about the connection between a child and their pet, built on trust, curiosity, and a shared sense of play.
When I think about the bond between kids and pets, I often see it through my own children’s eyes. Our family dog has become a loyal friend, a source of comfort, and a quiet teacher. Watching the three of them grow up together has reminded me how these connections can shape us. Through shared routines, playful moments, and even quiet companionship, our dog has shown my children what it means to care for someone, and to be cared for in return.
This issue is a tribute to those relationships, the ones that teach us, stretch us, and fill our homes with happiness. I hope you enjoy the stories we’ve gathered and feel a little more connected to the young hearts and furry friends that make our neighborhoods feel like home.
With gratitude,
BRYAN STONE, PUBLISHER @WESTAUSTINCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Bryan Stone | Bryan.Stone@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Wood | Michelle.Wood@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Alissa Cordoba | Alissa@alissacordobabrands.com
Claire Smith | Claire@littleacornsphoto.com
Kim Ortiz | Kim@kimortiz.com
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
on page 30.
2025
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@WGBBEECAVE
1: Your neighborhood stop for fresh treats, grooming, and tail-wagging finds at Woof Gang Bee Cave. 2: Congratulations, Hill Country Galleria—2025 Business of the Year, awarded by Bee Cave Chamber of Commerce! 3: The sweetest back-to-school collection from Anderson Parker. 4: Discover why Bricks & Minifigs is a top Bee Cave family destination for LEGO® lovers. 5: Join the annual Paddle for Puppies event supporting Austin Pets Alive! 6: High 5 Lakeway is your go-to spot for birthday fun, comfort food, and nonstop games. 7: Get into the school spirit with Apricot Lane Boutique’s game-day gear and everyday outfits. @PADDLEFORPUPPIES
Celebrating art in everyday spaces, the Bee Cave Arts Foundation enriches the community through exhibitions, youth programs, and public art installations like the Bee Cave Sculpture Park and artist-created benches. Its community art center, The Hive, offers classes, student showcases, and interactive experiences for all ages. Experience creativity up close by visiting the Foundation at 12912 Hill Country Boulevard, Suite F160, in Bee Cave, Texas, or learn more at BeeCaveArts.Foundation
Rieder Law, PC serves veterans, young families, and small business owners through proactive, relationship-focused legal planning. Founder Dana Liddy Rieder combines her background in litigation and teaching to help parents make thoughtful decisions that protect their children’s future. From naming guardians to securing assets, her approach provides clarity and peace of mind. Learn more about building a plan that protects your kids and reflects your values at RiederLaw.com
Looking for a place where your pet can play, relax, and be cared for? Riley’s Ranch is Bee Cave’s veterinarian-owned pet resort, offering boarding, daycare, grooming, and even acupuncture. With spacious outdoor play areas, luxury suites, and a highly trained staff, every detail is designed with your pet’s well-being. Give them the care they deserve by calling (512) 559-6257, visiting 15839 State Hwy 71, Austin, TX 78738, or exploring their services at RileysRanchPetResort.com.
Rooted in Christian and American values, this K–8 independent school empowers students to grow into confident, capable leaders grounded in strong moral character. Consistently ranked among Austin’s top-performing academic programs, Blaze School provides a nurturing environment where scholars are encouraged to reach their full intellectual, creative, and personal potential. For enrollment information and to learn more about the school’s mission, visit BlazeSchool.org
Let the kids run wild while you sit back and enjoy a space built for fun. This indoor adventure park in Bee Cave combines high-energy attractions with a safe, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for everyday play or special celebrations. From summer passes to birthday parties, there’s something for every young explorer. Call (512) 501-3902, swing by 3944 Ranch Road 620 South, Building 5 in Bee Cave, Texas, or learn more at UrbanAir.com/Texas-Bee-Cave.
When it comes to emergency and specialty care, pet owners across Central Texas turn to the team trusted by top veterinarians. Violet Crown offers 24/7 emergency services, advanced oncology, orthopedic surgery, critical care, and diagnostic imaging, all led by board-certified specialists. This privately owned hospital blends world-class treatment with deeply personal care. Call (512) 284-2877, stop by 14360 Falcon Head Boulevard in Bee Cave, Texas, or explore their services at VioletCrownVet.com.
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Dogtopia of Austin (Lakeway) https://www.dogtopia.com/austin | 512.369.3647
Highmark Kennel/Kitty City https://www.highmarkkennel.com | 512.288.0515
JGO’s Lucky Dog https://www.jgosluckydog.com | 512.610.3510
My Love Fur Paws https://www.mylovefurpawspetcare.com | 512.814.0193
Riley’s Ranch Pet Resort https://www.rileysranchpetresort.com | 512.559.6257
Bee Cave Veterinary Clinic https://bcvetclinic.com | 512.263.9029
Five Star Veterinary Center https://5starvet.com | 512.886.1700
Lake Travis Animal Hospital https://laketravisanimalhospital.com | 512.266.2421
Lakeway Veterinary Clinic https://lakewayvet.com | 512.263.2134
Violet Crown Veterinary Specialists https://www.violetcrownvet.com | 512.284.2877
Our offerings include:
Neuromodulators: Botox® and Jeuveau® | Dermal Fillers | Microneedling
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) | Dermaplaning | Chemical Peels
Resurfacing & Skin Tightening Technologies will be available in the near future
All cosmetic treatments at GAVINO DERMATOLOGY are personally performed by Dr. Gavino or carried out under his direct supervision, ensuring expert care and results you can trust.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRICKS & MINIFIGS BEE CAVE
Bricks & Minifigs Bee Cave has quickly become a favorite among families, collectors, and LEGO® lovers of all ages. This locally owned shop buys, sells, and trades everything from bulk bricks and build-your-own minifigures to rare finds, retired sets, and the latest releases. It’s a place where creativity, imagination, and community come together. One of their most popular offerings? Birthday parties. A 90-minute celebration includes race car building and derby-style racing, followed by a minifigure station where each guest builds a custom figure to take home.
The birthday child gets to pick and keep two. There’s time built in for cake and presents, plus open play with thousands of LEGO® bricks in a fun, relaxed setting. The party package is ideal for kids ages 5 and up and includes up to 12 participants, with the option to add a few more for a small fee. Bricks & Minifigs provides everything you need: plates, napkins, utensils, and tablecloths, so parents can enjoy the day without the stress. A dedicated party host guides the group and keeps things running smoothly from start to finish.
Where creativity and LEGO® magic turn parties into adventures for kids and families.
Owners Lindsey and Jason have created a welcoming space. It’s inviting, engaging, and built around play. Many families who come in for a party end up returning again and again to browse the ever-changing selection of new and used LEGO® sets, pieces, and one-of-a-kind minifigs.
Planning a birthday or stopping by to build brings out the excitement of creativity and connection right here in Bee Cave.
Bricks & Minifigs Bee Cave is located at 11905 Bee Cave Rd., Suite 105. Visit in person, browse the latest builds, or inquire about party availability at BricksandMiniFigs.com/ BeeCave-TX or call (512) 243-5042 for more details.
• Celebrate with a 90-minute LEGO® inspired party hosted in-store at Bricks & Minifigs in Bee Cave
• Conveniently located at 11905 Bee Cave Rd., Suite 105
• Includes hands-on race car building and exciting derby track racing activity (optional LEGO® build add on during this time*)
• Build-your-own minifigure activity for each guest to take home
• Birthday child receives two custom minifigures
• Time allotted for customer-supplied food, presents, and play
• Designed for ages 5+ and up to 12 participants; additional guests may be added
• All tableware, utensils, and setup are provided
• Party is led by a friendly Bricks & Minifigs staff member
• Available during weekday and weekend time slots
• Optional themed LEGO® builds can be added
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
Sky Zito has spent years performing across the country, from intimate acoustic sets to full rock shows. Today, he brings that same energy and experience into homes and music venues throughout West Austin. Through weekly music lessons, he helps spark creativity, build confidence, and make music fun for young learners. Each lesson is personalized to match the student’s interests, skill level, and goals. Kids can start with the basics or explore music theory, songwriting, or live performance. Some even get the opportunity to perform at local events or record in Sky’s home studio. It’s a chance for young musicians to build skills while doing something they love.
GUITAR, DRUMS, BASS, AND VOCALS, SKY ZITO BRINGS MUSIC LESSONS HOME FOR FAMILIES ACROSS WEST AUSTIN.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SKY ZITO MUSIC
Sky Zito studied privately at Berklee College of Music and earned letters of recommendation from multiple faculty members. His studio work includes collaborations with both local and national acts, and his original music has led to four solo albums and a publishing track record with Crater Rock Records. He has also written and recorded music with Cruel Juno, a globally recognized group featuring artists from bands like Angra, Doro, and Kamelot.
Instruction is never one-size-fits-all. Lessons are tailored to each student’s pace and goals, with the option to explore songwriting, live performance, or studio recording. Students are often invited to perform at family-friendly venues across Austin, offering the chance to build confidence and stage presence in real time.
From learning strong foundational technique to guiding the next generation of singer-songwriters, Sky helps students turn musical curiosity into lasting skills. Interested families can visit SkyZitoMusic.com or contact him directly at SkyZitoStudio@gmail.com or (512) 568-8991 to learn more about scheduling a trial lesson.
RECOGNIZING THE TOP DENTAL PRACTICES TRUSTED BY LOCAL FAMILIES FOR OUTSTANDING CARE, COMFORT, AND CONNECTION.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD
a r o u n d
Dr. Smrity Amatya delivers complete dental care for all ages, from young children to adults. Services include preventive cleanings, restorative care, Invisalign, cosmetic treatments, and dentures. The practice is known for its compassionate approach, flexible scheduling, and welcoming atmosphere that puts patients at ease. Book a visit at BeeCaveFamilyDentistry.com or call (512) 885-2020.
Dr. Adriana Da Silveira offers personalized orthodontic care for kids, teens, and adults. With modern options like Invisalign, lingual braces, and early-phase treatments, families appreciate the convenience and results. Their “Bee Happy Smiles” philosophy blends advanced care with a friendly, supportive environment. Schedule your appointment at BeeCaveOrtho.com or call (512) 334-0444
Dr. Alberto Tostado leads Lake Travis Orthodontics with a focus on gentle, patient-first care. He specializes in non-invasive treatments like Invisalign and self-ligating braces, helping patients achieve healthy smiles without unnecessary extractions. His approachable style and commitment to conservative care make him a top choice for families in West Austin. Start your smile journey at LakeTravis-Orthodontics.com or call (512) 402-1501
High 5 Lakeway is packed with indoor activities kids love and parents appreciate.
High 5 Lakeway brings nonstop fun for kids of all ages. From bowling lanes and arcade games to a two-story laser tag arena, every visit feels like a party. Older kids and teens can try axe throwing (under supervision), while parents looking to recharge, the “Up Top” boutique bar and lounge offers an elevated spot to enjoy craft cocktails. There’s something exciting around every corner, and the full scratch kitchen menu keeps everyone fueled with pizza, snacks, and more. Plan a playdate, birthday bash, or spontaneous summer outing the whole family will love. Find all the details at BowlHighFive.com/Lakeway, or stop by 1502 Ranch Rd 620 S. to join in the fun.
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Great change often begins with one extraordinary life. Abbey’s courage and spirit became the heart of the Abigail E. Keller Foundation. This August, her legacy continues at the Foundation’s annual gala at the Circuit of The Americas, a place Abbey loved, for an evening devoted to families, hope, and healing.
On Saturday, August 16, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the Abbey Lights Up COTA Gala will transform the iconic racing venue’s media center into an evening filled with compassion, celebration, and momentum toward building Texas’s first dedicated pediatric respite and hospice facility, Abbey House. This year’s gala marks its seventh year as one of Austin’s most heartfelt fundraisers, honoring a little girl whose 11½-year journey was filled with more medical challenges than most could imagine, yet she faced them all with grace and a smile.
A night of joy, music, and giving in support of medically fragile children across Texas.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ABIGAIL
E. KELLER FOUNDATION
Attendees will be treated to a night of giving, hosted by Emmy Award-winning Chet Garner, the creator and star of The Daytripper, and a special performance by Grammy-winning country artist Rick Trevino. From the live and silent auctions to the champagne wall and an exclusive concert on Pit Lane, every moment of the gala is crafted to raise awareness and vital funding for families in need.
This year’s event is especially significant. With guidance from Husch Blackwell, the Abigail E. Keller Foundation has launched a Management Services Organization (MSO) that will accelerate the path to Abbey House. Once complete, Abbey House will be the first stand-alone, non-hospital pediatric respite and hospice facility in Texas, addressing a critical gap in care for more than 85,000 children in the state living with life-limiting illnesses.
Since 2019, the Foundation has provided over $400,000 in direct support to 165 families in Central Texas. Through financial grants, emotional care, and advocacy, AEKF stands beside families navigating the complexities of medical fragility, helping them feel seen, supported, and never alone.
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening will come when Oakley, this year’s Butterfly Grant recipient, shares her inspiring story and introduces the 2025 honoree. Her voice represents the spirit of the Foundation, full of resilience, hope, and heart.
From the roar of the racetrack to the quiet power of a shared mission, the evening will remind everyone in attendance why Abbey’s light still shines so brightly.
Join us as we celebrate Oakley, stand with local families, and help bring Abbey House one step closer to reality. Purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or learn more at AEKellerFoundation.org
August 16, 2025 | 5:00–10:00 PM
9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
Enjoy a live and silent auction, music by Rick Trevino, and special moments with Butterfly Grant recipient, Oakley. AEKellerFoundation.org
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ARTICLE BY MICHELLE WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANDERSON PARKER
COMFORTABLE, CLASSIC, AND THOUGHTFULLY CURATED, SHOP BACKTO-SCHOOL OUTFITS AND ACCESSORIES AT ANDERSON PARKER.
Start the school year in style with Anderson Parker’s back-to-school collection. From monogrammed backpacks and lunchboxes to first-day outfits, this West Lake Hills boutique has classroom-ready picks for every grade. Designed for parents who care about comfort, quality, and timeless style, each piece is carefully selected to help kids feel confident and stand out. Shop everyday staples, elevated athleisure, and curated accessories from brands like Mar Mar Copenhagen and The Beaufort Bonnet Company at 3300 Bee Caves Road, Suite 375 or online at shopap.com.
When disaster strikes, we show up for each other. Flooding across Texas has uprooted families and disrupted daily life across entire communities but hope is never far when neighbors come together. City Lifestyle is identifying those most affected and helping deliver real support where it’s needed most.
KNOW SOMEONE IMPACTED?
Nominate a family, individual, or local leader in need of care and restoration. our voice can help us reach the people who need support the most.
AUGUST 10TH
2418 Stratford Dr., Austin, TX 78746 | 6:45 AM
Head to Rowing Dock for a morning paddle benefiting Austin Pets Alive!’s Parvo Puppy Program. From 6:45 to 10:00 AM, grab a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard (SUP), dogs welcome with waivers! Your registration supports lifesaving care for puppies battling parvovirus. Register here at RowingDock.com
AUGUST 16TH
9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Del Valle, TX 78617 | 5:00 PM
Step into an evening of celebration and purpose at the 7th Annual Abbey Lights Up COTA Gala on August 16 at Circuit of the Americas. From 5 to 10 PM, enjoy auctions, live entertainment, and a champagne wall, plus a performance by Grammy winner Rick Trevino. Emmy winner Chet Garner will host this magical night supporting medically fragile children. Purchase sponsorship and tickets at AEKellerFoundation.org
AUGUST 16TH
12712 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave, TX 78738 | 8:00 PM
Catch the final 8 PM performance of The SpongeBob Musical at Hill Country Galleria. This family-friendly show brings Bikini Bottom to life with color, music, and charm. Running Wednesday through Saturday since July, the final curtain falls on August 16. Get your tickets and learn more at HillCountryGalleria.com
AUGUST 22ND
12912 Hill Country Blvd. #F160, Bee Cave, TX 78738 | 5:30 PM
Join us from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Bee Cave Arts Foundation (located inside Hill Country Galleria across from H&M). Bring your beverage of choice and paint Van Gogh’s Sunflowers in a relaxed, guided class with artist Petra Krugel. Supplies are provided and all skill levels welcome. Reserve your seat at BeeCaveArts.org.
AUGUST 22ND
2001 Robert Dedman Dr., Austin, TX 78712 | 7:45 PM
Experience the intensity of Gambler Days, part of the PBR Team Series, at Moody Center from August 22–24. From Friday through Sunday, watch elite bull riders and the Austin Gamblers face off in one of the most electrifying sports around. Get ready for adrenaline, grit, and edge-of-your-seat action. See event details at MoodyCenterATX.com.
AUGUST 23RD
Cool Arts Show
105 Cross Creek, Lakeway, TX 78734 | 1:00 PM
The Lakeway Activity Center hosts this annual celebration of local creativity from 1 to 5 PM. Enjoy original works by Lakeway-area artists, live music, pottery, jewelry, and kids’ activities like face painting. Artist spaces are limited, registration opened June 1. More information at Lakeway-TX.gov
Austin baby undergoes two major heart surgeries within 5 days of birth
When Lindsey Mansuri had a routine anatomy scan around the 23rd week of her pregnancy, she never imagined the moment would alter her world. Her unborn daughter, Hadley, had a life-threatening, rare heart defect — dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) — where the heart’s major vessels are not in the correct position, restricting the body from receiving life-giving oxygen.
Referred to pediatric cardiologist Dr. Anitha Jayakumar at Texas Children’s North Austin, Lindsey and her husband Adam found themselves surrounded by a team of experts determined to save Hadley’s life. They met Dr. Javier Brenes, the cardiac surgeon who would operate on their newborn’s heart, and they walked the hospital halls where their baby would fight for survival.
On September 23, 2024, Hadley was born — and within three hours, she was in surgery. The first procedure, a septostomy, gave her heart a temporary fix. But four days later, she faced the ultimate test: a 10-hour open-heart surgery called an arterial switch operation.
Lindsey and Adam waited, and when Dr. Brenes emerged, his face said it all. “Even after the long surgery,” Lindsey recalled, “He looked so happy. He smiled the whole time he talked with us.”
Only 16 days later, against all odds, Hadley went home.
Today, she’s thriving: laughing, playing, hitting milestones, and even splashing through infant swim lessons this summer.
Hadley’s journey is one of grit, grace, and the miracles of modern medicine. For Lindsey and Adam, every heartbeat is a reminder of the team that gave their daughter a future — and the fierce love that carried them all through.
Start the school year in style everything your little ones n confident, comfy, and cute o From backpacks to polished Parker has all the back to sch and don’t forget to add on c monograms!