March 2025 WAN by westaustinnews

CHORUS AUSTIN HOSTS FIRST GALA

Event Hits a High Note, Raising Over $220,000

Chorus Austin hosted its inaugural Gala celebrating 60 years of bringing choral excellence to Austin and Central Texas. A who’s who of Austin’s arts scene turned out for the milestone event, including philanthropists, arts leaders, and representatives from The Austin Symphony, Austin Opera, and KMFA 89.5. With auction items, inspiring performances, and an electric atmosphere, the evening proved to be a success— raising a staggering $220,000.

The night kicked oﬀ with a champagne cocktail hour and silent auction. Once inside the grand ballroom, attendees were treated to a full-course meal and a heartfelt video featuring testimonials from Chorus Austin singers and community leaders. Guiding guests through the evening’s festivities was Interim Executive Director Michael Evans, who served as the emcee. The excitement reached new heights with a live auction. Chorus Austin’s Artistic Director and Conductor, Ryan Heller, followed with an impassioned speech about the transformative power of music, igniting a wave of generosity as patrons pledged donations to further the organization’s mission.

Throughout the evening, guests were serenaded by soloists from the chorus, setting the perfect mood for dining and socializing. The night reached a powerful crescendo with a show-stopping ﬁnal performance by the full chorus, featuring “Climb Every Mountain” from The Sound of Music and a soulful rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Water by Austin drag icon Aria Rey.

The evening would not have been possible without the dedication and vision of Gala Co-Chairs Linda Thompson and Cindy Hager and the generosity of sponsors, including Korman Fine Jewelry, Eve Horwitz and Steve Emmerich, Dixie and John Paulos, and Sharlene and Gene Austin.

With the support of Austin’s thriving arts community, Chorus Austin continues to elevate voices, enrich lives, and ensure that choral music remains a cherished part of Central Texas culture. For more information, visit www. chorusaustin.org.

Our PATRON SPONSORS/SUBSCRIBERS

Around the Neighborhood: openingexpandingcelebrating

Austin’s ABC Kite Fest, now in its 97th year, happens Saturday, April 5, in Zilker Park. Beginning at 10 am with music by Barton Hills Choir, registration begins at 11 am and kites fly beginning at 1 pm – 50-yard dash for kids, highest kite with a kids and an adult winner, and ditto for steadiest kite, best kite pilot, and most unusual kite. Winners also for smallest kite, largest kite, youngest flier, and oldest flier. Kids will be entertained with face painting, bouncy houses, activities, and games; and furry kids will find an off-leash pet playground and rock climbing walls for the humans and a mini-market for everyone. Info at abckitefest.org

Yarborough Branch Library celebrates Americana Theater’s 60th birthday on April 25 with a red carpet, live music from the Soulphonics, retro crafts, popcorn and movie candy, a photo booth, and a screening of The Love Bug – an evening of retro midcentury cool, so get in your vintage getups and celebrate the Americana. Yarborough library is at 2200 Hancock Dr. and festivities are from 6pm to 8pm. See library.austintexas.gov for info

Balcones Canyonlands is the place for you this spring if warblers are your jam. Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is leading birding walks called Welcome Back Warblers on April 2 and April 5. These walks celebrate the return of golden-cheeked warblers, some of the most important residents of Balcones Canyonlands. The walk is about two hours and begins at Warbler Vista Parking Lot oﬀ 1431 in Lago Vista Info and registration at friendsofbalcones.org

Howson Book Club 2025 at Howson Branch Library meets every fourth Thursday through October from 6:30 pm to 7:45 pm. March

27’s selection is Horse by Geraldine Brooks (I loved this book) and if that’s too quick for you, try Willa Cather’s My Antonia on April 24. Filling out the year of book club picks are Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro, Long Island (What a story!) by Colm Toibin, William John’s Stoner, Slow Horses by Mick Herron, Everett Percival’s prize-winning James, and Elizabeth Strout’s newest featuring Lucy Barton in Tell Me Everything. Howson Branch Library is at 2500 Exposition Blvd., or 512-974-8800

HarperSage opened its flagship women’s clothing store on March 8 at 4803 Burnet Road after five years of an online presence. HarperSage partners with human rights nonprofits to consciously source small batch and ethically manufactured pieces. The Sage collection features bold, adventurous silhouettes, while the Harper collection leans into a romantic statement. Parker+Scott offers a general store outpost inside HarperSage, and on April 17 hosts a book signing with Brianna West. See harpersage.com for info and reservations

HomeScence has opened at Sunset Valley Marketfair, 5400 Brodie Lane HomeSense oﬀers an endless array of quality furniture & eclectic décor—standout pieces, all at outstanding prices. The highly organized store is inviting and oﬀers excellent in-store customer service. They are open Monday-Sunday, 9:30 AM-9:30 PM.

Around the Neighborhood

Estilo Boutique, located at 2727 Exposition Blvd #121, is celebrating its 20th year in business in 2025. The store recently completed an expansion to a 4,200-square-foot space housing its women’s, men’s, and children’s boutiques in the heart of Tarrytown at Casis Village. Estilo stylists are available to help customers ﬁnd their perfect look, and the uniquely cultivated oﬀerings at Estilo can also be purchased online at www.estiloboutique.com.

The Austin Wine Merchant opened its second location at 1601 W. 38th St., Ste. 3 (in Jefferson Square) in January. The family-owned / operated business has been serving Austin downtown on West 6th St. since 1991 and offers a well-curated selection of fine wines, spirits, beers, accessories, and beautiful gifts/gift baskets. Their forté is their detailed product knowledge and courteous service. Reach them at their new midtown location via phone at (512) 713-1601, email at info@ theaustinwinemerchant, or visit their website at www.theaustinwinemerchant.com.

The Good Friday Pilgrimage orchestrated by the Schoenstatt Movement of Austin will be held on Good Friday, April 18th The Schoenstatt Movement is an international Catholic initiative that has been spearheading the annual 9-mile pilgrimage for our community for over 10 years. Traditionally, Christians worldwide spiritually join Jesus Christ in His Passion and Death for the forgiveness of sins on Good Friday. The Pilgrimage will begin gathering at 9:30 am on April 18th at St. Mary’s Cathedral located at 203 E 10th St.

“A Taste Of Ireland” The Irish Music & Dance Sensation will perform at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Dr., on Saturday, April 5, at 7:30 pm. One of the world’s top Irish dance shows, featuring a starry roster of international dance champions, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, A Taste of Ireland Sensation combines Irish charm with sensational talents for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Visit https://www.atasteoﬁrelandshow.com/ for more information or to secure tickets.

1. What’s something about you that not many people know? Dennis the Menace comic books had a strong influence on my life, especially Dennis the Menace in Hawaii and Dennis the Menace in Hollywood.

2. What was your first job? Wrapping Christmas presents at my mother’s women’s wear store.

3. If you could have dinner with three people — dead or alive, at any time in history — who would they be?

Considering that I went to Baylor, I have to say Jesus. And boy howdy, do I have some questions for him. I’d want Lady Gaga and Hillary Clinton to join us since they have such strong faiths.

4. If you had to pick three musicians for a playlist, who would they be? Oh, that’s a tough one. Judy Garland singing anything she wants. Cynthia Clawson singing jazz and her own compositions. Miles Davis playing bebop. But who can do just three? I need Bette Midler in there, Gaga, Wynonna, Thelonius Monk, Joni Mitchell, Sal Marquez, and on and on.

5. Favorite book and TV show? A writer is supposed to pick just one book?! And insult my friends? Okay, I read Convictions by Taffy Cannon at least twice and gave copies to friends, so that might be a favorite. And I loved The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton. But are those my absolutely most favorite books in the world? I can’t say that. My favorite TV show was probably The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Like Dennis the Menace, Mary Richards influenced my life. When I walked into Fortune Magazine for the first time and saw that my boss had placed a single red rose in a bud vase on my desk, I knew I was home because Mary Richards always had a single red rose on her desk.

6. The most powerful movie you have seen? The Hiding Place. That’s not necessarily my favorite movie — that would be Sunset Boulevard or Double Indemnity or Network or Turning Point, but The Hiding Place was the most powerful.

7. Favorite place in Austin? The Paramount Theatre.

Marie Betcher

emember

RBY FORREST PREECE

What a life she’s had. Marie’s parents and sister were born and lived in northern Italy, eventually moving to New York where Marie was born. The family then moved to Las Vegas where Marie was raised and where her father was the custom tailor to the stars, including the “Rat Pack” (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, etc.) and hotel mogul Barron Hilton. During her childhood in Vegas, her mom was renowned as one of the best cooks in town and celebrities like Glen Campbell and Perry Como would come to their house to eat dinner. (Marie had a crush on Glen.)

Fast forward through college, where she earned Bachelor and Master of Music Degrees in Vocal Performance (she originally entered in Piano Performance) from Indiana University School of Music and

Florida State respectively. After years of having a successful career in music, she married Jonathan Betcher, became an Ordained Cantor through Hebrew Union College and eventually studied and became an Ordained Rabbi. Here in Central Texas, Marie served as Rabbi/Cantor/Education Director for the URJ Shir Ami Congregation in Cedar Park for almost 12 years. Largely thanks to Jonathan’s serving as an Austin Police Oﬃcer for their ﬁrst four years of marriage, she became involved with the Cedar Park Police Department. After being the Chaplain for the Cedar Park Police Department for six years, she was approached at an event by Chief Art Acevedo of the Austin Police Department who “needed a Rabbi.” She signed on with APD and eventually made US history, as

the ﬁrst and only female Rabbi to be a Senior Chaplain for a Police Department. After 12 ½ years on the force, including being named Chaplain of the Year, she resigned at the beginning of 2024.

Oh, and let’s see – as an opera singer and concert pianist, she performed in Italy and England and at The Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall; she’s a board member for Swan Songs (musical last wishes for the dying), has served on the board of the Interfaith Action of Central Texas, blesses dogs for the Mighty Texas Dog Walk, and has directed the Dell’s Angels senior singers for 10 years. By the way, Linda and I met Jon and Marie at a Scotch and Cigar dinner held at the Four Seasons back in the 1990s, and they enjoy riding Harleys. I’m

leaving out a lot, but I need to get on with the story.

BEING A POLICE CHAPLAIN

Some of the functions of a Chaplain with a police department are enjoyable – like officiating at weddings, appearing at community functions, and even blessing dogs at events like the Mighty Texas Dog Walk for Service Dogs, Inc. at Camp Mabry. But having to do death notices — that takes a strong person. At APD, these tasks are handled by Victim Services, but Marie did many, many death notices throughout the Cedar Park area. It’s an unbelievably difficult thing to tell someone their husband has been killed in a car wreck or that their child has been found at the bottom of a pool. One summer, she had to deliver four death notices about children who had drowned. “They usually go to the ground when you tell them — 99 percent of the time,” Marie says. Typically, she would just get down there with them, hold them, and ask if she could pray for them. “They’re immediately insane with grief – talk about life-changing!” One especially painful task she had to perform was letting a woman know that her grandchild had drowned. After revealing the horrible facts, she turned around and saw the veteran male officers behind her had started weeping. Chaplains are there to comfort and bring a spiritual presence when needed. They are always non-denominational. I asked her if there was any time that she was afraid when she was on ride-outs. She said that she always stayed in the car, but yes, she saw some intense episodes happening in front of her. Those instances gave her a chance to see that APD officers show enormous restraint. Once, they rolled up on four or five drug dealers who got into a fight with the officers — knives, guns, the works. The police were being spit on, swung at, and cut.

Eventually, they were able to subdue the bad guys and handcuﬀ them. Marie says that it was frightening for her to see that kind of violence and not be able to do anything to help. “I was wishing that I was six-foot-four and I could have gotten into it!”

COMMUNITY SERVICE

One of Marie’s favorite nonproﬁts is Swan Songs, which provides serenades for people who are in the last stage of their lives. Relatives of people who are in hospices or care facilities who want to give their loved ones the gift of their favorite music, performed live, can call and ask for a concert. Her tighter connection with this group came in 2011 when Linda and I took her and Jonathan with us to their annual fundraiser. Jerry Jeﬀ Walker was playing and it was a fun time. That night, she met with Christine Albert, the group’s founder. They later visited at length, and she agreed to join the Swan Songs board. She had already been performing concerts for the group and

it was a natural step for her, since much of her chaplaincy work involves visiting people in hospitals. “Being involved with Swan Songs as performer and board member has been a wonderful part of my life,” Marie says. Marie adds that she likes to help groups that don’t get as much press as some bigger ones; and she loves to be involved with groups which rescue animals. For instance — Blue Moon Sanctuary which shelters around 175 rescued donkeys. (If they don’t get saved, they go to the glue factory.) Last year, Marie was asked to come bless the donkeys at their Donko De Mayo fundraiser. And there is Living Grace Canine Ranch — hospice and care for elderly or ill dogs. “At this age, I get to pick and choose what I do.” Looking back on it all, Marie remembers when she gave a talk at a church in Georgetown and she said that they should put this on the sign out front: “Born Again, and Again, and Again.” “All the things that happen in your life build on each other.”

One Word At A Time One At A Time

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AT 6:30 PM

This special evening brings together stroke survivors, their families, and supporters to celebrate the power of recovery and community.

Sherrie Frachtman A Lifetime of Service and Support for Stroke Survivors

For over 40 years, Sherrie Frachtman has been a dedicated leader in her community, holding various leadership roles in local nonproﬁts and schools. Her passion for improving the lives of others is evident in her tireless work to make a lasting impact.

Sherrie’s involvement with Austin Speech Labs began in 2009 when she attended an informational session led by co-founder Shilpa Shamapant. Moved by the organization’s mission to support stroke survivors and their families, Sherrie and her husband, Dr. Bob Frachtman, became devoted supporters. She joined the Advisory Board shortly after and later took on a leadership role as chair of the One Word at a Time event. Since 2016, Sherrie has served on the Board of Directors, where she continues to play a key role in advancing the organization’s mission.

The cause is especially meaningful to Sherrie, who witnessed her grandfather’s struggle after a stroke. “My support comes from a belief in the organization’s mission to help stroke survivors and their loved ones rebuild their lives,” she says.

Austin Speech Labs is grateful for Sherrie’s unwavering dedication. Her leadership and commitment have signiﬁcantly impacted the lives of countless stroke survivors.

Every Recovery Begins with One Word

Each year, One Word At A Time celebrates the resilience of stroke survivors as they reclaim their voices and rebuild their lives. This year, we are honored to feature three inspiring speakers—Aboye Jinkiri, Nazim Khimani, and Casey Gwinn—each of whom began their recovery with a single word.

• Aboye Jinkiri has returned to work as the chief of staﬀ for a national management consulting ﬁrm.

• Nazim Khimani, who suﬀered a stroke at 31, continues his recovery with hopes of returning to law school.

• Casey Gwinn, who had a stroke at 36, now works part-time at REI, 18 years after his stroke. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder that recovery is possible—one word, one step, and one breakthrough at a time. We are also excited to have Emily Eakin and Jocelyn Harris as our client emcees for the evening. Their strength and determination embody the mission of Austin Speech Labs, and we are grateful to have them lead us through this inspiring event.

An Evening of Celebration & Support

Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, with all proceeds beneﬁting Austin Speech Labs’ mission to help stroke survivors rebuild their lives.

Join us for this unforgettable evening as we celebrate resilience, progress, and the strength of community. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for One Word At A Time are available now. The event dress code is business casual.

For more information, visit austinspeechlabs.org or contact us at staﬀ@austinspeechlabs.org.

Toge Together, we can make a difference ther, we can make a difference—One ne Word ord At t A T Timeime.

InHonorofLizKeith Resilience

Scott&KacyO’Hare* Shilpa&VenuShamapant* Brian&AdriaSheth Dr.StevenWarach&Dr.MaryAbreu*

RichardandJudithBerkowitz&FriendsofSherrieFrachtman Sherrie&Dr.BobFrachtman*|CaseyGwinn&Family*| SanjeevMohan* Patience

HONORING

SHERRIE FRACHTMAN

Dabo Swinney and Cade Klubnik Inspire at Austin Ridge Bible Church

By Anne DeVries

On March 4, 2025, Austin Ridge Bible Church welcomed a packed house to hear from Clemson University head football coach Dabo Swinney, star quarterback Cade Klubnik, and Austin Ridge lead pastor Brad Thomas. The event entitled Warrior Night was hosted by Ridge Men — the church’s men’s ministry — and brought together men of all ages for an evening of reﬂection, inspiration, and a celebration of faith and sport. For Klubnik, a native son of Austin and a Westlake High School legend, the night was a homecoming in more ways than one.

Ridge Men, an Austin Ridge program dedicated to fostering a “community of men that seeks to pursue Jesus in our families, the workplace, and the world,” set the stage for the evening. Their hope — that every man would take the next step in his journey with God and connect with others — came to life as Swinney and Klubnik shared their stories with the captivated audience.

All attendees felt the chemistry of the evening. Brad Thomas, a Clemson Alumni and native of South Carolina, often jokes to his congregation about his Clemson ties, which he proudly highlights in a city dominated by the University of Texas and Texas A&M fans. His love for Clemson Football is no secret. Furthermore, his bond with the Clemson starting quarterback runs deep. Klubnik attended Austin Ridge growing up.

“I am so excited about having my favorite coach and my QB1 here today”. Thomas said as he welcomed the audience. “They’ve been very successful at what they do, and that’s not even the most important thing about them. The most important thing about them is they love Jesus, they have a faith that’s strong”, Thomas added.

Swinney, known for his charismatic leadership and deep-rooted faith, took the stage and shared, “I’m not here repping the paw (Clemson). I’m here repping the cross tonight. Okay?” He spoke about the day that forever changed his life, February 3, 1986, when, as a sophomore in high school, he met Jesus. That same night, he went home and wrote in his bible, “I dedicate my life to Jesus.”

Warrior Night drew men of all ages to the West Austin church. Over 100 cars were turned away from Austin Ridge as the parking capacity reached its limit. For Dabo Swinney, it was the opportunity he most lives for — a chance to bring even one person in the audience to Christ.

Klubnik is known to most in the area as a member of the Westlake football team, who won three consecutive state championships in 2019-2021, and for his performance as the starting QB for the 2020 and 2021 seasons, going 27-0 for the two seasons. His humble nature and deep appreciation for his family warmly emanated to those in attendance.

“I always say my parents did an amazing job raising me. I think that they just wanted me to play as many sports as I could,” he shared. “They raised me wanting me to ﬁnd something that I really loved.”

Swinney likewise praised

Klubnik’s special upbringing, sharing, “I remember the ﬁrst time I talked to him (Klubnik). I remember hanging up the phone and saying, this kid’s amazing. Then I talked to his mom and dad, and I’m like, this family’s amazing. And God worked it all out. Cade Klubnik chose to come to Clemson. And man, you talk about a special football player.”

Swinney provided the audience with tools for living a meaningful life. His message represented a foundational plan.

“You gotta build your life on a foundation of Christ. If you’re truly gonna survive and thrive. Keep your eyes on the Lord and all that you do, believe ... and don’t quit”, he said.

As the evening wrapped up, the audience left inspired by the blend of sports success and personal conviction. For Austinites, it was a chance to celebrate one of their own in Klubnik, whose journey from Westlake High School to Clemson University stardom continues to shine.

Thanks to Ridge Men’s thoughtful hosting, the night at Austin Ridge Bible Church was a testament to their shared values and a fitting homecoming for a quarterback whose roots run deep in Austin’s football lore. As Klubnik prepares for his senior season in 2025, the event underscored the promise of more milestones to come — both on the field and off

Dell Children’s 2025 Star Ball Shines Light on Life-Saving Mission

The stars aligned over Austin, Texas in celebration of the life-saving work happening at Dell Children’s Medical Center. The Dell Children’s 2025 Star Ball was a smashing success raising more than $2.2 million for children and families across Central Texas and beyond. The evening ﬁlled the Four Seasons Hotel Austin ballroom with roughly 445 star studded guests, including members of the Dell Children’s Foundation Board of Trustees and Leadership Council.

The night’s program saw generous giving during the "Fund The Vision" event. Guests were inspired by the powerful story of “Gregory the Brave,” a young patient of Dell Children’s Blood & Cancer Center. While Gregory did receive critical, life-saving care at Dell Children’s, his cancer diagnosis required his family to leave Austin for a bone marrow transplant. His story brought home the mission of the Foundation: raising funds to ensure every child can receive the care they need close to home, no matter the diagnosis. Dell Children’s expects to perform its very ﬁrst pediatric bone marrow transplant sometime this year, a ﬁrst for the Central Texas region.

a dry eye in the

Without

house, guests were uplifted by musical performances from a talented Dell Children’s patient, Olivea Hannah, her Music Therapist, Velora Hall, and

stunning electric violin performance by Gabriella Martinez. Following a dessert reception, the evening continued with an after party and dancing in Ciclo.

Bee

The Women’s Symphony League of Austin’s 14th annual Red Haute Valentine Party and Children’s Style Show theme was Two of Hearts, A Tea for Two. With Mr. & Mrs. Claymon Cipione as the Title Sponsor, this year’s luncheon and fashion show was cochaired by twin sisters Allison Edwards and Courtney Edwards, and combined fashion, fun, and philanthropy. Guests enjoyed a fun preview of the season’s hottest fashion trends for children of all ages.

The Red Haute Runway featured fashions by Dillard’s, Fragile Eccentrics, House of Shan, and MOMograms Collective. Guests had an opportunity to shop at the annual marketplace. Other fun highlights included a silent auction, Hugs & Kisses game, Madhatter Mystery Tea Cup Pull, and elegant afternoon tea.

For over 71 years, the Women’s Symphony League of Austin has dedicated its energy, talents, and volunteerism by providing service and financial support to the Austin Symphony Orchestra. The Women’s Symphony League is the largest annual financial supporter of the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Over 50,000 children benefit from the innovative educational programs of the Austin Symphony Orchestra every year. For more information, go to www.wslaustin.org.

PHOTOS BY JETER PHOTOGRAPHY

Fifth Annual Squirrel Fest Set For April 12

By Forrest Preece

Pease Park Conservancy’s Squirrel Fest

2025, an annual day to celebrate Spring and community, begins at 4 pm on Saturday, April 12 at Pease Park. It ends with a screening of The Wild Robot on the park’s Great Lawn after dark. The event is free and open to all.

In collaboration with Future Front Texas and other community partners, this family-friendly festival welcomes people of all ages. Party-goers will enjoy music and food and participate in fun activities such as a puppet show by Small Wonders Puppet Theater and Family Waltzing with J Wagner. There will also

be Eco-arts and crafts with local artists from Future Front, including Nature Painting Picnic with artist Kayla Kennedy, Make A Forest Friend with ceramicist Tanya Zal, Bird Bingo with Where’d The Wild Things Go!, DJ sets by Austin-based musicians, and more.

Pop-ups from local organizations will be featured, like Japan-America Society of Greater Austin and Brother Friend, plus food options from SnoRide and Zee’s Weiner System. H-E-B makes this event possible with their generous support of Pease Park Conservancy’s ongoing programming eﬀorts. Learn more through the Pease Park Conservancy website. https:// peasepark.org/squirrel-fest

Spring Break Adventure

— Compiled by Forrest Preece

Here are some stories by Austinites about Spring Break trips.

My daughter Isabelle is a keen sixth grade Latin scholar, and so we are taking a special trip to Rome (and the Vatican City — pictured) this spring break to become immersed in the ancient world and classical art.

One favorite fun activity was a mosaic-making workshop, learning ancient Roman Mosaic making techniques ﬁrst-hand by creating their own! — Elizabeth V. Newman, Founder and Producing Artistic Director of The Filigree Theatre

Some of my favorite spring breaks were spent with my three favorite people — my kids, Luke, Logan, and Reid — at Disney World. I’ll never forget taking them when they were little, back when they truly believed the characters were real. Seeing the magic through their eyes was unforgettable. Our last Disney Spring Break was a Disney Cruise — endless food at all hours for them, and cozy cabin time together for me. Now that my older two are oﬀ in college, spending spring break with friends, I appreciate those memories even more.

— Kristin Marcum,

CEO, ECPR Texas Spring break my freshman year at Vanderbilt coincided with Mardi Gras. A friend of my best friend invited a bunch of us to come down to stay at his family’s home in the New Orleans suburbs, and it was my ﬁrst real introduction to the city that I’ll always call home. His mom threw us a crawﬁsh boil on the back patio, we drove around the city on Lundi Gras just kind of hanging out, and on Mardi Gras day, we set up a picnic blanket and chairs in the neutral ground on St. Charles Avenue and spent the day watching Rex and the truck parades. The rest of that spring break was spent sorting through beads and road-tripping from New Orleans to Mobile and back up to Nashville. I still have a handful of the beads I caught that day, and am still friends with that whole roadtrip krewe. — Kim Usey, Communications Professional

Ca m p G u i d e 2 0 2 5 Camp Guide 2025

ChampionsTX Show Teams Shine in the Austin Community

The ChampionsTX performance teams have been making waves in the Austin community this year! Both their cheer and gymnastics teams have been sharing their talents and passion for their respective sports at multiple events throughout the 20242025 season. These young athletes have worked tirelessly to perfect their routines, and their dedication has truly paid off. Their performances have left a lasting impact on the community, and their aspiration will create many special memories for years to come. Their first appearances of the season kicked off back in October. Both the CCA Cheer team, also known as the ChampionsTX Cheer Academy, and five Gymnastics show teams performed in front of a live audience. The CCA Cheerleaders electrified the sidelines at the WAYA Flag Football Playoffs – boosting team spirit with their high-flying stunts, cheers, and tumbling. Meanwhile, the Gymnastics show teams made their debut at the UT Elementary Spooktacular Carnival, dazzling the audience with their routine. The event was particularly special as it brought together the Hot Shots (Kindergarten), Mighty Mights (1st Grade), Super Stars (2nd & 3rd Grade), and Team Extreme (4th Grade) for the first time in a public performance.

As the season progressed, ChampionsTX continued to spread joy and athleticism throughout the community. A highlight of the year was the team’s participation in Austin’s beloved Trail of Lights. Nearly 50 athletes performed an energetic routine dazzling the crowd with their tumbling, dance, and spirited stunts. The festive performance truly embodied the holiday spirit and brought smiles to families, friends, and strangers alike.

The teams continued their community outreach into the new year. In February, the teams visited multiple independent living facilities, bringing warmth and entertainment to the residents with their routines. These routines were more than just a performance — these visits fostered meaningful connections between both the gymnasts and the residents. These relationships ﬂourished as the new friends built puzzles, shared stories, laughter, and snacks. This time together made for unforgettable moments of intergenerational bonding. One of the most heartfelt events of the season was the “Cartwheels for Cassidy” fundraiser. ChampionsTX rallied around 5-year-old Cassidy, a cherished member of their extended family. Cassidy was born with Cerebral Palsy, and recently underwent an intensive surgery. Athletes secured pledges for each cartwheel completed, ultimately raising enough funds to provide Cassidy with new leg braces. This incredible eﬀort showcased the true heart of the ChampionsTX family — one that values not only athletic excellence but also kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for one another. Since its inception in 1995, ChampionsTX has been committed to building “All Around Champions,” and this year has been no exception. The show teams have not only impressed audiences with their performances but have also demonstrated the power of community, teamwork, and giving back. As the season continues, there is no doubt that these young athletes will keep inspiring those around them with their talent, dedication, and spirit. Stay tuned for more exciting performances and community outreach from ChampionsTX!

LEARNING & PLAY:

Summer at St. Michael’s Prep

This summer, the St. Michael’s Prep 88-acre campus in southwest Austin transforms into a vibrant hub of exploration and curiosity. Come experience “ Summer on Campus,” an engaging and immersive summer program for students from Pre K to H igh School, and adult recreational sports leagues, including pickleball.

From J une 2 nd to J uly 25 th, week-long camps offer morning, afternoon, and full-day experiences, blending fun with enrichment in an inspiring setting. Whether your child is exploring new passions or sharpening skills, they’ll enjoy a dynamic schedule—including recess on our turfed playgrounds and lunch options from our top-tier kitchen.

This is more than just summer camp—it’s an exceptional summer experience. E nroll today and be a part of it!

kidsActing Summer Theater Camps

Austin’s favorite and longest-running theater camp for kids is ready to see you take the stage this summer. Join themes from Descendants: Rise of Red, Spider-Verse, Moana 2, Star Wars, Annie, Beauty and the Beast, and more ... they’ve got it all. Show Choir camps will perform the songs of Wicked, and you can make your own scenes in the Acting for TV and Film camp. With camps in 16 locations they are just around the corner from home or work!

Springs, Highland Mall, Leander, Mueller, Northwest Hills, Oak Hill, Pﬂugerville, Round Rock, Westlake, Westgate/Lamar, & Westlake.

Looking for a more intensive theatre experience? Join Three Musketeers for a swashbuckling 3-week full-scale production camp in June or the classic Bye Bye Birdie for their 4-week fullscale musical production camp in July/August!

Special discounts for siblings, and when you enroll in 4 weeks of camp, get your 5th week free!

Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Paragon Prep, where adventure, creativity, and discovery come to life! Our summer camp program is designed to engage, inspire, and challenge young minds with a wide variety of activities tailored to every interest. Whether your child is an athlete, an artist, a scientist, or an explorer, there’s a perfect camp waiting for them.

Adventure Awaits — and Fun Begins

Every week, campers who are Rising Kindergarten through Grade 8 immerse themselves in hands-on activities, including science and nature exploration, creative and performing arts, sports, and games. Our camp oﬀers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor adventures, all packed with excitement.

Day Camps: Campers enjoy a dynamic mix of sports, games, arts, and outdoor adventures.

Academic Camps: Keep young minds sharp with engaging STEM projects, reading, and problem-solving activities.

Specialty Camps: Designed to help campers explore and expand their

interests, our specialty camps dive into sculpture, cooking, ﬁlmmaking, fashion, pottery, robotic, and more for a summer of self-expression.

Sports Camps: Hone skills, build teamwork, and stay active with our rigorous sports oﬀerings and expert coaching, from pickleball to ﬂag football and volleyball.

Preschool Program: We›re also committed to making summer extra special for our youngest students because we understand that summertime memories last a lifetime! Children ages 3-4 will enjoy sports, water-themed games,

scientiﬁc experiments, dance, drama, music, and more.

With expert instructors, a nurturing environment, and a focus on fun and personal growth, Paragon Prep’s Summer Camp is the ultimate way for kids to build new skills, form lifelong friendships, and make lasting memories.

Spaces are limited—secure your spot today!

Join us for a summer of adventure, learning, and fun. Register now at ParagonPrep.com.

7944 Great Northern Boulevard | Austin, TX

Embrace the Adventure: Summer Camp at Paragon Prep!

Balcones

Woods, Cedar Park, Crestview, Downtown Austin, Dripping

28th Annual Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp

During the basketball season, if you walk into a local gym, you will most likely ﬁnd a coach focusing his/her team on the oﬀense or defense for the upcoming game. How often does the average basketball player focus on individual skills during that time? Not much! For obvious reasons, the focus during the season is on the team rather than the individual. That’s why the summertime is the best time for an aspiring player to improve his/her own skills—particularly the lost art of shooting.

Brandy Perryman knows a thing or two about shooting. His record 90% free throw shooting average during his 4-year career at The University of Texas still stands. He is also ranked 5th for 3 pointers made in Longhorn basketball history. Those 43 camps he attended as a child must have paid oﬀ. They are still paying oﬀ as Perryman prepares for his 18th annual Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp in the Austin area, teaching boys and girls ages 7-16 the lost art of shooting.

BPSC is a 4-day shooting intense basketball camp mirrored after all the camps Perryman attended and enjoyed the most as a kid. He has taken those camps with his combined playing experience, creating an upbeat, positive experience for Austin area youth.

All camps include 32 hours of instruction, which is approximately the same amount of time as a month of practice in Middle School or a full season of a youth league. Daily team competitions are the highlight of the week, allowing kids to be a part of a team with no pressure and to have fun.

To promote self-esteem and self-discipline, BPSC includes individualized drills and competitions throughout the camp that all campers have an opportunity to excel at and improve their shooting skills. An average camper shoots over 1,000 shots over 4 days at BPSC.

The 10:1 camper to coach ratio allows campers to develop skills in a small group. These coaches include head coaches, assistant coaches, collegiates, and former players who share the knowledge and enthusiasm required to be a BPSC camp instructor.

By instructing 16,000 campers over the past 27 summers, BPSC has gained a reputation as the premier basketball camp in Central Texas.

Creative Writing with Badgerdog

Hosting campuses include Meridian School, Griﬃn School, Parkside Community School, Austin International School, and Trinity Episcopal School

Badgerdog’s Creative Writing Summer Camp has given Austin youth a space to fall in love with writing for more than 10 years, with its opportunities for self-expression, learning from a professional writer, and publishing original work.

Badgerdog hosts summer writing camps for rising third graders through twelfth graders, where students can explore the arts of poetry, ﬁction, nonﬁction, and playwriting. All campers have opportunities to read, write, and share their original work. Each summer, Badgerdog publishes two professionally produced anthologies, one for elementary-aged writers and one for middle and high-school writers.

Summer camps are available all over town, with several sessions in June and July. The three-week and two-week camps include fun exercises in poetry, ﬁction, non-ﬁction, and other forms of creative writing. Additionally, high school students can sign up for

a novel-writing camp. Badgerdog Creative Writing is a project of the Austin Library Foundation, which also sponsors the Austin Youth Poet Laureate Program and the Mayor’s Book Club. More information is available at austinlibrary.org.

Spartan Summer Camps 2025

Spartan Summer Camps at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School create long-lasting, happy memories for your children.

Located on a gorgeous West Austin hillside with lake views, our campus provides fun in the outdoors, and our summer program includes a variety of other enriching camps.

We are excited to oﬀer weekly full or half-day sessions for campers ages 6 to 18, led by a number of longtime and well-established St. Stephen’s instructors and coaches. Your campers can learn acting, how to bake in French Baking camp, tips and strategies for investing at Investment camp, sharpen their foreign language, creative writing or photography skills, how to improve their orchestra performance, and so much more.

Campers can also enjoy a host of sports camps like football, basketball, soccer, mountain biking, ﬁeld hockey, and tennis.

With aﬀordable pricing and a wide selection, there is something for everyone. Some sum-