August 2023 WAN

WESTWOOD WAVES

By Coach Trey Kohlhausen

The Westwood Waves definitely attacked the competition this season. They finished their summer league season UNDEFEATED in 2023. They were 7 and 0, the Waves got 1,286 best times, had 86 undefeated swimmers and 8 pool and team records were set.

All Waves enjoyed an exciting celebration of the season at our awards banquet on June 23rd. After the award presentation and slideshow/video in Westwood’s dining room, the party moved to the pool area, where there was a dunking booth that the swimmers were able to dunk their coaches, the fun “bouncy house” was out for the swimmers to jump, then the swimmers did a raft race, a greased watermelon race and a relay where the swimmers put on heavy clothes and had to swim to the other side and pass off the clothes. The finale was a Westwood favorite, as always, the Soda Scramble. What a fantastic celebration highlighting a successful season. At the Waves Banquet, Carson Dipasquale received the coveted Price Malone Award for outstanding sportsmanship and leadership. The award is given to an 11 & up swimmer who is a team leader on the Waves.

Full Steam Ahead in ’23!

Carson is an excellent athlete/student and all the swimmers on the team look up to her for advice, swimming help and “fun”.

The All Star Meet occurred on June 26th and Westwood hosted the meet. Westwood Waves had to qualify and make all star times to attend the meet. The Waves have hosted this exciting meet since 2009. The Waves won that meet, beating all the other 9 of the teams’ all stars which is the best of the best from each team.

Swimmers received many best times and many placed in the top 8 places of the All Star Meet. Virginia Fowler (age 6 & under), Winn Fowler (age 7-8), McAlpine Kirkland (age 15-17) & Preston Propst (age 15-17) won the High Point Award in their age groups. Lucy Middleton (age 15-17), Pierce Propst (age 15-17), Max Bisang (age 15-17) & Will Perkins (age 15-17) finished in the high points runner up. Way to go Waves!! The Coaches were so proud of the team. 83 swimmers qualified for this FAST and challenging meet. Waves swimmers of all ages scored the most high points. Westwood was first, Barton Creek West was second, and Lakehills was third.

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WESTWOOD WAVES

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In our regular season, Waves swam Austin Country Club, Riverplace Country Club, Barton Creek West, Barton Creek Country Club, Rollingwood, Lost Creek Country Club, and Lakehills. Team camaraderie was at an all time high this season as it always is -- the strength of the Waves, as many of our families say, is the cohesive spirit and loving atmosphere that we all have, swimmers, parents, and coaches. The swimmers are easily motivated to swim FAST! CONGRATS on a great season!!

Thanks to all our parent

volunteers who help us have swim meets! Waves parent volunteers worked extra special hard. We appreciate you all. Our Waves President, Kelley Newberry is INCREDIBLE!

Thanks to her for an amazing year leading our team. Kelley helped us organize and run our Waves with over 296 swimmers and their parents. The coaches Love you, Kelley, more than you know.

Waves coaches are Trey Kohlhausen, Alex Rakoff, Dakota Friel, Ella Thomas, Cassandra Gilliam, and Sean Murray.

UNDEFEATED SWIMMERS

Wren Hopping, Ava Nixon, Marie Kay, Romilly Young, Cile Steward, Virginia Fowler, Luke Opalka, Miller Lloyd, Winn Fowler, Whit Stein, Kenneth Uglietta, Finley Perez, Litty Dasch, McAlpine Kirkland, Izzy Thomas, Juliet Auby, Katlyn Gooch, Hannah Van Houten, Jess Ream, Lucy Middleton, Sarah Kester, David Coover, Charlie Clauer, Baur Lloyd, Thomas Perkins, Will Perkins, Wes Yonge, Trep Thomas, Oliver Emerson, Ben Sullivan, Jack Davenport, Andy Stahlman, Max Bisang, Jackson Stahlman, Preston Propst, Pierce Propst, Whit Davenport, John Erickson, Harrison Burns, Kevin Nixon, Hugo Espinosa, Eliza Miller, Elizabeth Chang, Parker Laguarta, Mia Piatkowski, Adelaide Cronin, Nora Hale, Maible Epp, Caroline Terry, Landis Middleton, Vivienne Gonzalez, Carson Dipasquale, Julia Van Houten, Avery Simmons, Brynn Lloyd, Morgan Newberry, Walker Lloyd, Sam Fox, Robert Perkins, Zane Perez

TOUGH AS NAILS AWARD

Age 5 Girl – Maggie Coover

Age 5 Boy – Vance Hanks

Age 6 Girl – Marie Kay

Age 6 Boy – Hayes Guthrie

Age 7 Girl – Louise Cowan

Age 7 Boy – Whit Stein

Age 8 Girl – Addie Craig

Age 8 Boy – Trip Webster

Age 9 Girl – Maggie Schlicher

Age 9 Boy – Preston Johnston

Age 10 Girl – Kendall Newberry

Age 10 Boy – Sam Fox

Age 11 Girl – Elizabeth Chang

Age 11 Boy – Michael Collier

Age 12 Girl – Parker Lagurta

Age 12 Boy – James Person

WACKIEST WAVE AWARD

Age 5 Girl – Charlotte Mazzarella

Age 5 Boy – Lochlan Caskey

Age 6 Girl – Margot Stephens

Age 6 Boy – Wilson Green

Age 7 Girl – Frances Pieratt

Age 7 Boy – James Hill

Age 8 Girl – Daphne Turner

Age 8 Boy - Harrison Burns

Age 9 Girl – Kat Garraway

Age 9 Boy – Grady McIntosh

Age 10 Girl – Wynne Stephens

Age 10 Boy – Luca Ferreri

Age 11 Girl – Ivy Curry

Age 11 Boy – Will Garraway

Age 12 Girl – Mamie Bowles

Age 12 Boy – Miles Erlanson

MOST OUTSTANDING SWIMMERS

Age 5 Girl – Margot Hill

Age 5 Boy – Wyatt Stein

Age 6 Girl – Virginia Fowler

Age 6 Boy – Sawyer Zandan

Age 7 Girl – Madeline Pierson

Age 7 Boy – Luke Opalka

Age 8 Girl – Georgie Epp

Age 8 Boy – Winn Fowler

Age 9 Girl – Farrah Uglietta

Age 9 Boy – William Fowler

Age 10 Girl – Lily Embrey

Age 10 Boy – Collier Dipasquale

Age 11 Girl – Eliza Miller

Age 11 Boy – Clay Schlicher

Age 12 Girl – Adelaide Cronin

Age 12 Boy – Hayes Newberry

Age 13 Girl – Finley Perez

Age 13 Boy – Charlie Schlicher

Age 14 Girl – Julia Van Houten

Age 14 Boy – Whit Davenport

Age 15 Girl – Litty Dasch

Age 15 Boy – Andy Stahlman

Age 16 Girl – McAlpine Kirkland

Age 16 Boy – Trep Thomas

Age 17 Boy – Will Perkins

MOST IMPROVED SWIMMERS

Age 5 Girl –Vivian Hale

Age 5 Boy – Will Opalka

Age 6 Girl – Wren Hopping

Age 6 Boy – Hayward Taylor

Age 7 Girl – Scarlett Clauer

Age 7 Boy – Charles Swift

Age 8 Girl – Maggie Kay

Age 8 Boy – Kenneth Uglietta

Age 9 Girl – Hailey Decareau

Age 9 Boy – Oliver Emerson

Age 10 Girl – Audrey Hartmann

Age 10 Boy – August Seats

Age 11 Girl – Nora Hale

Age 11 Boy – Taylor Berra

Age 12 Girl – Mary Elizabeth Reynolds

Age 12 Boy – James Fox

Age 13 Girl – Landis Middleton

Age 13 Boy – Oliver Chang

Age 14 Girl – Avery Simmons

Age 14 Boy – Robert Perkins

Age 15 Girls – Kaitlyn Gooch

Age 16 Girls – Hannah Van Houten

Age 16 Boy – Max Bisang

Age 17 Boy – Pierce Propst

COACHES CHOICE AWARD

Age 5 Girl – Hayes Georgoff

Age 5 Boy – Billy Hilliard

Age 6 Girl – Romilly Young

Age 6 Boy – Parker Sayers

Age 7 Girl – Georgia Matson

Age 7 Boy – Jack St. George

Age 8 Girl – Caroline Fox

Age 8 Boy – Kevin Nixon

Age 9 Girl – Anna Quy

Age 9 Boy – Dylan Dennison

Age 10 Girl – Vivienne Carlson

Age 10 Boy – Forrest Johnston

Age 11 Girl – Maible Epp

Age 11 Boy – Pierce Curry

Age 12 Girl – Mia Piatkowski

Age 12 Boy – Judah Schwartz

Age 13 Girl – Mary Kathryn Rigby

Age 13 Boy – Zane Perez

Age 14 Girl – Izzy Thomas

Age 14 Boy – Thomas Perkins

Age 15 Girl – Juliet Auby

Age 15 Boy – Baur Lloyd

Age 16 Girl – Jess Ream

Age 16 Boy – Ben Sullivan

Age 17 Girl – Elle Middleton

Age 17 Boy – John Erickson

Austin Smiles to Honor Austin Doctors Bill Davis and Carolyn Biebas

The 37th Annual Wish

Upon a Smile Gala celebrates Austin Smiles’ dedication to transforming the lives of children with cleft lip and palate in Central Texas and Latin America. This year’s gala is Nov. 4 at the Oasis on Lake Travis at 5:30 in the evening, just in time for sunset.

The gala takes on special significance this year, as Austin Smiles awards the 5th Annual Cullington, Fox, Beckham International Service Award to Dr. Bill Davis and Dr. Carolyn Biebas.

Davis, one of Austin Smiles founding surgeons, dedicated his career to care of children born with cleft conditions. His compassion has been demonstrated through his engagement in dozens of international medical missions and his service to children in Central Texas.

Biebas, a revered anesthesiologist in Austin, has been with Austin Smiles since its inaugural mission, and is still lending her talent and leadership on Austin Smiles’ current sites in Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador.

The Austin Smiles community is grateful to these two individuals for making a difference for 37 years. Without their humanitarian leadership of providing safe, comprehensive, quality surgical care, many children would have gone without care. This award symbolizes Smiles’ volunteer-driven mission, honoring exceptional contributors who advance its transformative purpose.

Austin Smiles mission supports children with cleft conditions, affecting 1 in 700. Collaborating with local and international partners, it ensures comprehensive care from infancy to adulthood. Within Central Texas, over

800 children benefit from Austin Smiles social-emotional support yearly; the team conducts 3 Latin American medical missions, performing 150 life-changing surgeries annually.

To learn more about the organization and the Gala, visit www.austinsmiles.org. Your involvement paves the way for a brighter future, where every child has access to a happy, healthy and inclusive life.

Allan Williams

BY FORREST PREECE

After attending first grade at Highland Park Elementary, Allan went to grades 2-6 at Eanes Elementary School. That was as far as schooling went in Westlake back then, so he attended O. Henry Junior High, and Austin High after that.

He smiles and says that during his boyhood in Westlake, he also got to know a lot of kids who were known as “cedar choppers.” When he was seven or eight, Allan swam with the Austin Aquatic Club where Wally Pryor was the coach. He remembers a party at Westwood Country Club when Wally was the emcee and they played like someone was drowning in the pool. Wally yelled out – “throw him a buoy!” So someone picked Allan up and threw him in the water!

At Austin High, Allan was on the student council. By the time he went to UT, he was used to politics and logically arguing points. His mother’s father and grandfather were lawyers, and his mom encouraged him to pursue a legal career. After attending UT Law School and earning his degree and law license, his father, who was friends with Paul Holt, the former county attorney, secured Allan an interview with that office. Allan was soon hired as an assistant county attorney in the prosecutor’s office.

To say that he has had a varied slate of cases during his career is an understatement. I asked him to tell me about some of the ones that stuck in his mind, and he came up with a few that were especially interesting.

One of the first cases he was involved with in that role of assistant county attorney was Frank Erwin’s DWI arrest. Of course, at that time Erwin was Chair of the Board of Regents at UT and one of the most powerful political forces in the state. While working on the case, Allan helped conduct the deposition of the arresting officer. Erwin’s attorney was Roy Minton, who was given Erwin’s booking photograph in which Erwin doesn’t appear to be intoxicated. Allan pointed out that was exculpatory evidence the defense was entitled to have. During the deposition, Minton flipped a print of the photo across the table to Allan and said, “You’d better not lose that!” Allan was moved on to other cases, but as he remembers, Erwin was acquitted.

After two years with the county attorney’s office, Allan went into private practice and was doing about half and half civil and criminal work.

One case he tried in federal court was of a UT student who had hacked into the university’s system and ferreted out

thousands of social security numbers. He had possessed this information for some time—he never used them for nefarious purposes, it was just an ego thing, to have them as “scalps” and show that he could perform such a technical feat. The legal system didn’t see it as such an innocent act.

The case was tried in Federal Judge Lee Yeakel’s court on four counts. Allan says that the young man, who had no prior legal problems at all, was found not guilty on three counts and guilty on one. The judge gave him probation, which was unusual for federal cases in that era. “It was very rare something like that happened,” Allan says, “so that was a big victory.”

In another case, a client of his managed to order some fentanyl from China. The client meant to use it himself, but he sold some of it to a friend who peddled it to a guy who then resold it to someone else. That last person in the chain took some of the drug and died. The original buyer was not really a dealer, but as Allan says, “in the eyes of the law you’re a dealer if there is selling involved.” He was a nice young guy from a good family, but addiction sometimes makes people do bad things.

“He had a productive life at the time, he was a good student, and it was just a shame.” The case went to federal court, and as Allan says, “You don’t get off of anything there.” The young man was sent to the penitentiary, but Allan says that he did everything he could to argue for keeping the sentence as lenient as possible.

Jury selection is a huge part of the process that Allan went through on his trials. He says that some people may seem to be very conservative, but they simply cannot vote for the death penalty in the end. In capital murder trials when there is overwhelming evi-

dence about the crime, often the best that defense attorneys can hope for with a conviction is to secure a life sentence rather than death, which are the only two options the jury has.

Allan says that as a defense attorney, he certainly doesn’t want criminals to be out running free. But as he says, the founding fathers realized what a significant thing police

power is and that there had to be a check on it. When it’s known that police will have to be brought before a court to explain what they did while arresting someone, the theory is that the arresting officers will show prudence in their actions.

He adds that the vast majority of cases do not even go to trial – that gives attorneys another bargaining position.

Attorneys can find mitigating circumstances. For instance, if a perpetrator has a history of being abused during childhood, that information can help bring about a lighter sentence.

These days, Allan isn’t doing much active legal work, but he does consult on some cases, and has an office in Roy Minton’s building across from the courthouse. His daughter Kim Williams is a judge in Travis County. Allan and his wife Rose Betty are active in the community. They love traveling to places, especially France and Italy, where they can learn more about and enjoy the history, art and music of different regions and sample fine wine and cuisine. They also really enjoy going to New York for theater and Napa for favorite and new wines. They recently went to Disney World with their kids and grandkids.

When Rose Betty chaired Fiesta at Laguna Gloria, she and Allan met and became friends with a lot of artists, including A.D. Greer. They acquired several of his paintings, a couple of which Allan watched A.D. create. They treasure their art and the stories behind each painting and sculpture.

“We’ve had a great life and it’s fun to still be enjoying what Austin has to offer,” Allan says.

Chris Andre

Allan is one of those rare birds – an Austin native. He was born in the old St. David’s at 18th and Rio Grande. At first, his family lived on West 39th. But his dad, who was friends with Emmett Shelton, became convinced to go live in Westlake.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Recognizes Outstanding High School Senior

By Anne DeVries

For McKenna Kerns, a rising senior at Vandegrift High School, there are barely enough hours in the day. Due to her challenging schedule, she sometimes changes her clothing for soccer or basketball practice as she travels from her volunteer shift at Ronald McDonald House Charities, Central Texas (RMHC, CTX), where she was recently recognized for her outstanding contributions that span over nine years.

The 17-year-old manages a busy life of sports involvement, academic achievement, and leadership development activities in an impressive fashion that can inspire even the most accomplished adult. Despite her demanding schedule, she prioritizes volunteering and relishes her long-standing commitment to helping RMHC, CTX.

During her nine years of volunteering with RMHC, CTX, McKenna has provided an enormous impact. In addition to personally raising over $25,000 to support RMHC programs, she has cooked meals for guest families at the Ronald McDonald House, helped refurbish and clean guest family rooms, organized donation drives at her

school and sports teams, and helped steward a donation of $100,000 to the expansion of the Ronald McDonald House.

Influenced by her own hospital stays in 2014 and 2015, she experienced firsthand the challenges for herself and her family of being an ill child away from the comforts of home.

Upon reflection, she stated, “In the hospital, you don’t have normal holidays or birthdays, and your friends don’t want to

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visit because you’re in a hospital. When I felt alone, it was things like the Happy Wheels Cart that showed me there is still hope in the world.”

McKenna’s interest in health care has led her to a deep involvement with HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), an international career and technical student organization. Elected President of the 220-member HOSA club at Vandegrift High School, she helps lead the growth and development of 17 officers, manages outreach and competition committees, streamlines club communication, and oversees club execution, connections, and improvement.

Selected for the Rotary Club Youth Leadership Program in 2022, McKenna has developed further leadership skills and was chosen as one of 12 new program leaders for the 2023 summer program held this past June. Requirements for the summer program included monthly training in preparation for her to lead large and small group training experiences as a counselor. She is also a US Club Soccer youth certified referee and a Player2Player basketball and soccer coach providing small group coaching sessions for youth soccer and basketball players.

In addition to McKenna’s extracurricular activities, she maintains a 4.0 average, is in the top 5% of her class and is a National Honor Society Member.

She plans to pursue Biomedical Engineering in college, most likely outside of Texas, but for now, she has a goal to live in the moment a bit more and enjoy her

last year of high school. When she does head to college, RMHC, CTX, will undoubtedly miss her for her contributions, energetic nature, and friendly smile.

Health Alliance for Austin Musicians Gears Up for HAAM Day on Sept. 19

Austin’s vibrant music scene is once again rallying behind its artists’ health and well-being as the annual Health Alliance for Austin Musicians’ HAAM Day returns on Tuesday, September 19. This highly anticipated event, a beloved tradition within the city, casts a vital spotlight on the significance of accessible health and wellness care for the hardworking, low-income musicians of Greater Austin.

HAAM Day 2023, powered by PNC and SXSW, offers more than 200 free live music performances all over Central Texas. Austinites can expect to hear music bouncing off the walls of their grocery stores, parks, restaurants, retail shops, and -of course -- live music venues.

Music lovers and supporters of HAAM’s mission can contribute to the cause by shopping, dining, and enjoying live music at various participating venues and businesses throughout the city, with a portion of the proceeds going towards HAAM’s mission to provide access to affordable health and wellness care.

Since its inception in 2005, HAAM has stood as an unwavering pillar of support for Austin’s musicians. These artists often lack the conventional benefits of employer-based insurance, and HAAM steps in to fill this void. Amidst Austin’s escalating cost of living, HAAM has emerged as an indispensable lifeline, ensuring musicians gain access to crucial services such as dental work, medical consultations, prescriptions, eye examinations, eyeglasses, hearing screenings, and custom ear protection, among other essentials.

“HAAM Day is not just about music. It’s about solidarity in recognizing the vital role musicians play in our community,” said Paul Scott, HAAM’s

CEO. “Through bringing the community together on this special day, we aim to bridge the gap between Austin’s thriving music culture and the need for accessible healthcare for its

artists. HAAM Day allows us to shine a light on our talented musicians who are integral to our city’s world-renown live music culture that we all enjoy.”

RAISE FUNDS FOR HAAM. WIN GROOVY PRIZES.

Around the Neighborhood: openingexpandingcelebrating

Eldorado Café ATX, home of Mexican comfort food and retro Austin eats on Anderson Lane, celebrated its sixth anniversary in early August. In mid-August, owners Joanna and Joel Fried honored World Elephant Day, with chef Joel creating Thai-inspired specials to benefit Elephants Austin and its work supporting the conservation of elephants in Southeast Asia. And any day, if you miss Dart Bowl Enchiladas or want a vegan menu, Eldorado’s got you covered. At 3300 W. Anderson Lane or 512-420-2222 for reservations – or resy. com

Forever Green Tournament and Party, benefiting the Muny Conservancy, is Sept. 15 at Lions Municipal Golf Course, 2901 Enfield Rd. Register at themunyconservancy. com and see info on the group’s efforts to raise funds to protect, enhance, and preserve historic Lions Municipal Golf Course for all of Austin. Muny hosts more charity tournaments than any Austin course, and is a practice facility for 12 middle school

Jeep Meetup at Highland Park Elementary rolls again on September 16. Trey McWhorter organizes these monthly meet-ups – when the weather isn’t 105 degrees – in the south parking lot of Highland Park Elementary School, 4900 Fairview Dr. from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. And when my dog Jack and I walk by, we usually see a big container of coffee and maybe a bag of breakfast tacos, so drive your Jeep over and have a little breakfast with some new friends.

Goldy’s, a new offering of chef Lorin Peters, opened in July at Littlefield’s in Tarrytown. Goldy’s offers sandwiches, salads, and housemade pastries for breakfast and lunch, and joining Goldy’s is another of chef Lorin’s popular enterprises – Cookie Rich. At 2401 WinstedLane or 512-359-5465 or getgoldys.com

Texas Memorial Museum has a new name — Texas Science and Natural History Museum — and reopens in September. The popular art deco University of Texas visitor spot at 2400 Trinity Street with its iconic rearing mustangs on the San Jacinto side has been closed for 18 months for renovations, and it will reopen with an $8M facelift that includes new exhibits and extensive renovations. At tmm.utexas.edu for updates

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Around the Neighborhood:

openingexpandingcelebrating

Back To School (& Gap Year) Wishes

— Compiled by Forrest Preece

As a parent, witnessing you embark on your senior year of high school is an overwhelming mix of emotions. I wish desperately that time would slow down . . . or better yet, stop altogether. Watching you happily tour colleges this summer, my elation was intertwined with a tinge of sadness. As I reflect on the years that have passed, I am filled with pride, nostalgia, and a touch of apprehension, knowing that soon you will venture into the world as a young adult.

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Max, senior year holds a unique significance. It is a time of reflection on the past and anticipation of the future. As you navigate through this final year of high school, you will inevitably face a whirlwind of emotions. The pressure of academics, college applications, and extracurricular commitments may feel daunting, but it is through these experiences that you will gain invaluable life skills and maturity. Thank you for patiently enduring my numerous recitations of the “Man In the Arena” speech and a myriad of Winston Churchill quotes in my earnest but clumsy effort to encourage you throughout the challenges of these final days of high school.

Your senior year represents a momentous time of growth, transition, and celebration. It is a year filled with opportunities for self-discovery, academic achievement, and laying the groundwork for a promising future. I am so proud that your late night studying and 5:30 am alarms have laid a great foundation for this effort. As a parent, I am honored and excited to be a part of your journey, supporting you as you take on new challenges and embrace the endless possibilities that await you beyond high school.

—Andrea McWilliams

Juliette, here is my wish for you during your upcoming gap year before attending college. I wish for you to have the time and space you crave to fully spread your wings. You have dutifully complied with the demands of institutionalized learning (often invigorating, regularly mundane, and sometimes idiotic), for the last four years during high school. Your intelligence, curiosity and humor have always shone brightly through in your work. You have learned much and grown up. But it was with sadness that I saw you repeatedly put your own passion projects and creative inclinations on the back burner, giving priority to the rubric time and time again, as the system dictates. You’ve always had a slew of original ideas simmering in your head; you’d

The most amazing aspect of being a mama is there’s no need to wish anything for our daughter, io (pronounced “ee-oh”) in her schooling because she is tremendous at manifesting exceptional professors, interesting classes, making fabulous new friends and moving forward in her vision of a profession, but most assuredly, in making her life whole, fulfilling and happy. So I stand with her 100% as she moves into getting a degree in psychology at Antioch in Seattle, and then moving back to Amsterdam to get her master’s degree. Her goal is to work with LGBTQIA+ youth. I’m thrilled for her in ALL her achievements, big and small and in-between!

— Sara Hickman

light up as you brainstormed, transfixed by the possibilities. Only to have to close your personal notebook and put it reluctantly aside due to a pressing school deadline. I wish for your freedom this gap year. The freedom to claim agency over your own time and pursuits. The freedom to set your own priorities and to dream and create with few interruptions. Now, life is unlikely to offer such freedom in general. There will always be obligations and responsibilities that tug us away from our true passions. But it is with great pleasure that we enable you to have this brief hiatus, to fill your well with the things that inspire you, to focus on making your dreams real, instead of keeping them tucked away in your notebook indefinitely.

— Monica Flores

Beaux MedSpa, located at 6317 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 260 in Westlake, is offering Botox, laser, and facial specials for the Fall! See their website for the full list of Medspa Fall Specials. Beaux MedSpa is ranked a Top Austin Spa and specializes in innovative, age-reversing treatments for skin rejuvenation. Call 512-428-5438 to schedule a consult, or visit www. beauxmedspa.com for more information.

Three pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets are available at Austin High School, 1715 W. Cesar Chavez. The courts are lighted until 9:30 PM and are reserved for Austin High School students M-F until 7 PM. Saturday and Sunday courts are open pending no events, first come, first serve.

Churchill’s Fireplace and Patio at 3300 Bee Caves Road in the Westbank Market Shopping Center is offering up to 60% off outdoor furniture as summer comes to a close. Open Mon-Sat: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed on Sundays. 512-328-9356.

West Austin 8th Grader Organizes “Embrace the Race” Fundraiser

By Anne DeVries

Two years ago this September, then 12-year-old Sawyer Jackson had an idea. Instead of having a birthday party, he wanted an event to raise money for the Embrace Ministry he volunteers with on Sunday mornings at his church, Austin Ridge. He named the event Embrace the Race and invited his friends, neighbors, and co-volunteers of the Embrace Ministry to help acquire donations during a fun run in his neighborhood.

Sawyer had the full support of his younger sister, Dupree, and his parents, Megan and Curtis Jackson, in organizing the run. The family endeavor resulted in a second fun run the following year and a third one planned for his 14th birthday. So far, Sawyer’s fundraising efforts have brought in over $5,000 for the Embrace Ministry, which offers one-on-one pal support, hosts classes for children and teens, and young adults with special needs, and provides family support at their three campuses in the Austin area.

Amy Sutherland, the Director of the Embrace Ministry, has been deeply moved by Sawyers’s contributions on Sunday mornings when he chooses to spend his time engaging with a young person one-on-one so their parent may attend an Austin Ridge service as well as the generous and creative spirit that led him to organize fun runs to support Embrace. Regarding Sawyer, she stated, “I love serving with Sawyer! He has a God-given passion for people with special needs and serves with great compassion and enthusiasm!”

Sawyer is surrounded by a loving family, including grand-

parents who inspire and guide him. When asked about his motivation for servanthood, he shared, “I spend a lot of time with my grandparents out at the ranch, and they have taught me important life lessons and how to be a better Christian. For example, when I am with them, my Papa makes sure I go to Sunday school with him and understand the material.”

The annual Embrace the Race fun runs have generated funds to purchase sensory boards, balance balls, and teaching tools. Collections also were used to buy wheelchairs and playground equipment for The Sweethearts of Jesus ministry in Minya, Egypt. Like Embrace; this ministry offers support and Christian ministry to individuals and families with members who have special needs.

This summer, Sawyer and his sister Dupree, their parents, and four others from the Austin Ridge Embrace Ministry traveled to Egypt to help assemble the playground that Sawyers’s contributions helped purchase. During their week of service, they provided training on techniques for communicating with individuals with special needs, spent one-on-one time with participants, and spread the good news that Christianity can give purpose and hope in all circumstances.

Sawyer’s 3rd annual fun run will take place in September 2023. As he turns 14 and prepares for 8th grade at Regents School of Austin, he is already creating a legacy of selflessness and ambition to make a difference in the world. For more information about the Embrace Ministry, please visit www.austinridge.org/embrace

Westminster Shoulders Fight Against Alzheimer’s

Recently, Westminster senior living community welcomed Alzheimer’s Texas, P. Terry’s Burger Stand, and Frios Gourmet Pops to its outdoor courtyard to raise local funds for Alzheimer’s Texas.

Chuck Borst, longtime executive director of Westminster, has a special place in his heart for people affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s, a disease that impacts one in three people over age 85.

“Today more than 350,000 Texans are living with Alzheimer’s. This number could triple by 2050, when nearly fifty million caretakers will be needed to care for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” said Borst, who has orchestrated dozens of events like the “Westminster Dog Show,” the “Kendra Scott Gives Back” jewelry sale, and the Phone-a-Thon and silent auction that have raised more than $1 million dollars for Alzheimer’s research and cures.

Because seniors are more in tune with the devastation of this disease than any other population, Westminster hosts special events and fundraisers

year-round with residents, staff and its board of directors to engage a positive, solutions-based dialogue about the treatment of cognitive diseases.

According to Debbie Hanna of Alzheimer’s Texas and Darrell K Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer’s Disease, Westminster “walks the talk” to raise awareness and funds to combat this deadly disease. Each year, more than 50 residents and staff volunteers from Westminster gather for the annual Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This year’s walk is in October.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s Texas and get involved in local walks and advocacy programs visit www.txalz.org

To donate to Westminster Alzheimer’s Fundraising Page see:

The Ausleys

Westminster residents since 2022

People’s Community Clinic Hosts There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch

People’s Community Clinic hosted its annual “There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch” event at the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Austin. The luncheon is the clinic’s signature event, raising funds and awareness to improve the health of medically underserved and uninsured Central Texans. Four hundred Austin business and community leaders attended in support of the clinic.

“The luncheon is one of the city’s largest fundraising events benefiting community health,” said Regina Rogoff, CEO of People’s Community Clinic. “Nearly one out of every five Texans has no health insurance, making organizations like People’s an important part of the healthcare safety net. People’s is committed to providing first-rate, affordable care for those in need, regardless of their ability to pay.”

People’s honored Becky

Beaver and Marina Sifuentes with the clinic’s W. Neal Kocurek Health Care Advocacy Award. This award recognizes area leaders who have distinguished themselves through their efforts to improve the health of our community. The event featured keynote speaker Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi, an internationally renowned virologist and Nobel Peace Prize nominee.

People’s Community Clinic is among the nation’s oldest independent clinics offering comprehensive health and wellness care to uninsured and underinsured individuals. Its mission is to improve the health of medically underserved and uninsured Central Texans by delivering high-quality, affordable health care with respect and dignity. For more information, visit www. austinpcc.org.

PHOTOS BY SUZANNE CORDEIRO

WHERE I’M COMING FROM

Dan

Byrne

BY FORREST PREECE

1. What’s something about you that not many people know? I had pretty terrible grades in undergrad because I was working full time in the restaurant business to pay for school and was not sure I could even get into a decent law school.

2. What was your first job? Delivering papers for the Green Bay Press-Gazette on my bicycle at the age of 12.

3. You can have dinner with three people – dead or alive, any time in history— who would they be? JFK, Barack Obama, and Bob Dylan (assuming my wife can come too!)

4. What’s on your music playlist? Bob Dylan, Brandy Carlile, Jason Isbell, Bob Schneider, Sheryl Crow, The Chicks, Amanda Shires, Willie and Lukas Nelson, Robert Earl Keen, Hays Carll — to name a few.

5. Favorite book and/or TV show?

Trinity — I guess — my older son is named after Conor Larkin.

6. Most powerful movie that you have seen?

Hard to say — might be A Few Good Men.

7. What makes you happy?

Spending time with my wife, my family and friends. Also, being outside enjoying

Austin, Wisconsin or the mountains in Colorado and helping clients.

8. Favorite place in Austin? Lady Bird Lake, I suppose.

9. Favorite restaurant in Austin? Wow, another hard one — Red Ash, Salty Sow, J Carver’s?

2023 Austin Heart Ball Unites Central Texas Around Health

Equity

There were many accomplishments to celebrate at the 2023 Austin Heart Ball, but it was also clear how much further there is to go to save lives and strive for equitable health for everyone living in Central Texas. The annual black-tie gala, presented by St. David’s HealthCare and held at the JW Marriott, raised critical funds to support the community, honored survivors and thanked supporters of the American Heart Association.

Honorary chairperson Rich Gergasko from Texas Mutual was recognized with the Heart of Austin Award for his unrelenting dedication to the mission. St. David’s President and CEO David Huffstutler was selected as the Bill Munday Award recipient for his commitment to health equity throughout Austin.

10. What living person do you most admire? These days I’d probably have to go with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

11. Best advice you ever received?

From my father—go ahead and take the chance to move to Austin before you have a family since alone, you can afford to take the risk.

Kacy Dolce, Realtor ®

BROKER ASSOCIATE, KUPER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Kacy Dolce, a 7th generation Texan married to a 6th generation Austinite, comes from generations of real estate brokerage, title, land use, and land/property investment. As a double major in Marketing and Business from Southern Methodist University and master’s level work in the MBA program at St Edward’s University, Kacy brings a greater understanding of the business of real estate. In today’s challenging real estate market, now more than ever, you can rely on Kacy to bring proven experience when buying, selling and investing.

• 2022-2024 DIRECTOR, AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS

• KUPER SOTHEBY’S PRESIDENT’S CLUB MEMBER

• AUSTIN BUSINESS JOURNAL NOMINEE - RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

512.426.186

KACY@KACYDOLCEATX.COM

KACYDOLCEATX.COM

Over 500 attendees bid on items during the live auction, opened their heart to support this year’s survivor Keith Moreland and hit the dance floor following the program to the musical stylings of Texas’ own Mark Chesnutt

The Heart of Austin and the Austin Heart Ball support the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, which aims to reduce barriers to health care access and quality. The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health and celebrates their 100th anniversary in 2024. For more information about the Heart of Austin campaign, visit AustinHeartBall.Heart.org.

Senior Partner and 40-year trial attorney—Fritz Byrne, PLLC; past president and director, Ballet Austin board; member Austin community board for Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas. Proud father of three and husband to Darlene Byrne, Chief Justice, Austin Court of Appeals.cast/podcast host

PHOTOS BY DON ROGERS

UT Athletic Director Chris Del Conte Underscores the Power of People

Helping People at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area Luncheon

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) hosted its annual Great Futures Luncheon at the Four Seasons. Nearly 300 people were in attendance. Every year, the Great Futures Luncheon brings together community leaders and philanthropists to shine light on the transformative and inspiring role leadership plays in helping each Club kid become somebody and to build a great future.

“Our Great Futures Spring Luncheon allows us to celebrate the power of leadership as well as the unique ways our Clubs provide safe, supportive spaces for kids to be who they are, strengthen their skills and realize their full potential,” said Mario Zambrano, interim CEO

of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area.

Attendees of the luncheon enjoyed a special keynote address by Chris Del Conte, vice president and athletics director at The University of Texas at Austin. In addition to his track record of success and lengthy list of accolades, Del Conte is also a proud alumnus of the Boys & Girls Club. During his keynote, he shared about the role the Club played in his life – underscoring the power of people helping people and encouraging everyone in the audience to be somebody for somebody.

To learn more and support BGCAA in its efforts to help Austin youth build great futures, visit www.bgcaustin.org.

Loreal Sarkisian at Julian Gold Finale of Toast of the Town’s 39th Season

Toast of the Town is a springtime staple in the Austin philanthropic community, hosting intimate dinner parties in private homes and interesting venues across Austin. This season’s finale at Julian Gold focused on fashion, fun, and philanthropy with stylist, wardrobe specialist, former track star, and the “First Lady of Longhorn Football” Loreal Sarkisian. She personally styled guests, embracing attendees’ personal taste to cultivate fashion that is both trendy and uniquely theirs.

The chair of the 2023 Toast of the Town committee is Chandra Hosek, and vice chair is Tobie Funte. Committee members include Jenifer Brown, Megan Cobb, Melissa Constantinides, Kathlene Crist, Brenna Edwards, Ericka Freels, Robert Godwin, Sandra Jarman, Jaynee Lancaster, Renata Marsilli, Laurée Moffett, Julie Niedert, Deborah O’Connell, Frances Pearce, Xavier Peña, Lesa Rossick, Araminta Sellers, Heidi Marquez Smith, Kristin Stephens, Mary Katherine Stout, Venus Strawn, Dinah Street, Jessica Taylor,

and Kathy Taylor.

All proceeds from Toast of the Town are combined with a two-to-one match by St. David’s Foundation to fund scholarships for the largest healthcare scholarship program in Texas. Since launching in 1983, it remains a favorite annual suite of philanthropic social events for a great cause. St. David’s Foundation is one of the largest health foundations in the United States, funding $80 million annually in a five-county area surrounding Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.toastaustin.org.

Julie from Denmark, 16 yrs. Enjoys gymnastics, swimming and photography. She’s positive, fun loving and easy to get