Austin, TX December 2025

Give Yourself the Gift of Being Present

It’s the time of year when we reflect back on the year that was and begin planning for goals, resolutions and dreams for the year ahead.

When the roller coaster that’s racing at full speed through events and obligations in October (the end of which is when I’m writing this) begins to slow late December (when you may be reading this), I break out my notebooks, make a cup of tea and make these lists. I start with what I’m grateful for in the year that’s wrapping up and highlights from the year, both good and not so much. Then I turn to what I want from the blank pages in the 365 days ahead. We can only plan so much, but I do believe we can’t get what we want if we don’t know what we want, and a large part of ‘manifesting’ is just knowing the answer to that – What do you want?

December 2024 Mama Duke probably couldn’t have imagined the life-altering gift that 2025 had in store for her – but she definitely did know what she wanted, and that she deserved it. Now, she’s quite literally living out her dreams. We spent time with her at the Museum of Balloons and she shared some behind-the-scenes of her America’s Got Talent experience and teased what she has on the horizon.

Inside this issue we also look back at 10 years of Emmer & Rye, chat with Levi McConaughey, show you what you didn’t see on the track at F1 and share some gifts that we think are a good fit for those hard to shop for people on your list.

Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy and healthy holiday season!

Cheers,

JENNIFER BIRN, EDITOR @AUSTINLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Montannah Kerby | montannah.kerby@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Jennifer Birn | jennifer.birn@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Dominique Bejarano

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jennifer Birn

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Field Reporter: AnaBelle Elliot

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jasmin Porter

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Modern Lux Lasik in Austin

Under the guidance of our Medical Director, Dr. Ryan Brewer, a board-certified LASIK surgeon who completed his ophthalmology residency at one of the nation’s top programs, and Dr. Tim Soeken, a fellowship-trained ophthalmologist with both military and academic distinction, we deliver exceptional clinical care and surgical precision. Our bladeless LASIK technology allows more patients to safely qualify for the procedure than ever before.

Imagine your life, in focus.

inside the issue

Families are experiencing homelessness in Central Texas. Join us in creating brighter futures and shining light where it’s needed most.

Your support creates brighter futures for thousands in need. Scan the QR code to donate today.

HOLIDAY guide GIFT

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

1. ANCIENT INDIA SKINCARE BY RACHEL ROY

A perfect present for many reasons. Our September cover star created this luxury line of products using the ancient wisdom traditions of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old science of well-being from India. And, with a mission for good. Each bottle sold supports at-risk women and children. Learn more and shop at https://ancientindia.com

2. ZADOK COLLECTION EARRINGS

These 14K yellow gold earrings are edgy yet classic. They feature a round bezel-set diamond that gracefully suspends a bezel set drop of emerald-cut brilliance. They move beautifully with every turn and offer a modern take that is timeless.

3. CLUTCH (FROM ESTILO)

This bag will set the recipient’s heart aflutter. Covered in Monarch butterflies, it’s neutral enough to match anything, but different enough to stand out. Find it at Estilo along with gifts for everyone on your list.

4. KATIE KIME MATCHING PAJAMAS

The Austin-based designer is known for her fun prints and this season has holiday pajamas for the whole family – including the dog!  We’re also loving Katie Kime’s Wicked: For Good collab! https://www.katiekime.com/

5. YELLOW ROSE BY KENDRA SCOTT BOOTS

Kendra’s first footwear collection stays true to her Texas roots, launching with cowboy boots in three styles and several colors. https://www.kendrascott.com/

6. PLANTWAVE

This is a fun and unique gift for the plant people in your life, music lovers and anyone who has ever wondered what a plant sounds like. The founder is ‘on a mission to amplify the connection between humans and the natural world,’ and created a device that when attached to a plant, turns their vibrations into music. https://plantwave.com/

7. COWBOY POOLS + HEATER/CHILLER

The Temp Tamer Heater/Chiller unit transforms the Cowboy Pool signature stock tank pool into a hot tub, cold plunge, and summer soak all in one. Save $500 when purchasing both products together using code. CPHOLIDAY.   https://www.cowboypools.com

8. MARGOT STEP STOOL FROM HATI HOME

Because it’s pretty enough to be a present – and helps the recipient not stress those previously out of reach places – in style. Specifically, sustainably sourced white oak with a honey finish. https://www.hatihome.com/

9. WISDOM TAKES WORK BY RYAN HOLIDAY

The modern stoic’s most recent book is the latest in his four-book Stoic Virtues Series. It focuses on, well, wisdom, the importance of learning, doing hard things, managing stress, and more. You can find it wherever books are sold, or buy the set, possibly signed, at his Bastrop bookshop The Painted Porch!

10. THE CANARY TRAVEL BAG (AT ESTILO MEN)

For the guy who jets off on quick business trips, this black leather bag is all they need. Stylish and suitable to match any outfit and it has a pocket for everything, from a passport holder to computer charger and change of clothes

Feels So Good to Be Mama Duke

Mama Duke, whose given name is Kori Roy, is a genre-crossing singer, rapper and songwriter who reached new levels of fame this year after getting Mel B’s Golden Buzzer on Season 20 of America’s Got Talent and being catapulted into the finals. She’s the first female rapper in the show’s history to make it to the Top 10.

While her hit “Feels So Good to Be You” introduced her to millions of people across America, she’s not new to Austinites. She’s a two-time Austin Hip-Hop Award winner, a two-time Austin Music Award nominee and a Recording Academy member. She’s an ambassador for Austin FC wrote the Juiceland theme song that plays at their locations across the state, and we first interviewed her in 2022 before she performed at ACL for the first time. And for the last two years, until recently leaving her ‘day job’ for good, she was a youth director at the YMCA.

For this issue, we did a shoot with her at The Balloon Museum while it popped up in Austin because its vibrancy and character matches Mama Duke’s bright and shiny, you can’t not pay attention personality. And, there was a whole room of goblins they call The Ginjos – ‘inflatable creatures with eyes that see everything’ that perfectly matched the sweater Mama Duke wore in her AGT audition!

W HAT A GIFT THIS YEAR HAS BEEN FOR YOU! MUST FEEL SO GOOD TO BE YOU

Sheesh. It feels wild to be me right now. But yes, it does feel so good to be me. Everything I prayed for and worked toward is here, sitting at my feet. I’m really trying to soak it all in. It feels like a dream I don’t want to wake up from.

THE LAST TIME I INTERVIEWED YOU, YOU TOLD ME YOU’VE BEEN WRITING MUSIC SINCE YOU WERE 14.

I can’t believe I’ve been writing music for two decades now. It feels crazy saying that out loud, but every chapter just keeps getting better and better.

AND YOU OPENED FOR NAUGHTY BY NATURE—YOUR THIRD SHOW?

Yeah! I didn’t even have stage or performing experience like that yet. I just knew I belonged up there. When I look back – I think that was one of those key moments early in my career that told me, ‘Okay, you can really do this if you really want to.’ CONTINUED >

NOW THAT YOU’VE HAD A CHANCE TO DIGEST THE AGT EXPERIENCE A BIT, WHAT MOMENT IS THE STANDOUT HIGHLIGHT?

Getting that Golden Buzzer, no question. Having golden confetti poured onto you in the highest moment of your career while the world watches is something that changes the trajectory of how you see and show up in the world. But honestly, what really sticks with me is how this momentum and energy affected the people around me. It fired everyone up. It inspired my family in different ways and showed the musicians around me that their big moment could be right around the corner too. This moment wasn’t just for me. It was for everyone it touched.

WAS THIS SEASON THE FIRST ONE YOU AUDITIONED FOR?

Yep, first time ever—and I almost didn’t go through with it! My “lower self,” as I call it, was like, ‘Nah, don’t audition. It’s a waste of time. How many people have you seen on the show that rap and look like you?’ My higher self said, ‘Just do it. The worst they can tell you is no.’ So, I just did it.

HOW DID YOU SECURE AN AUDITION?

They actually reached out to me, which was wild. I thought it was fake at first! I was super wary of reaching back out. Later, I found out that they had contacted a bunch of Austin locals to come audition. After a few emails back and forth, I realized, “Oh… this is real.” Next thing you know, I’m in front of producers a couple of days later, auditioning in a rented-out studio space in Austin.

HAVE YOU AUDITIONED FOR OTHER REALITY SHOWS IN THE PAST?

Nope, never. This was definitely a new experience for me. It felt like something bigger than me—something completely left field from what I would normally do. It felt like my steps were ordered by a higher power. I’m still buzzing from the whole experience.

WHAT ARE THREE TAKEAWAYS FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE ON THE SHOW?

1. “The right timing” is a lie. There’s no timeline on your career. There’s no such thing as ‘You’re going to miss your moment if you don’t _________.’ Fill in the blank with whatever people have said to you. It’s just not true. You are always on time.

2. When given the right environment, everyone is capable of greatness.

3. Rest is essential. Rest is drinking water. Rest is taking naps. Rest is not using your downtime to scroll. Rest is not answering the phone if it can wait. Rest is saying “no” whenever you feel like it.

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THE JUDGES TOLD YOU THAT LEFT THE BIGGEST IMPACT?

The interaction with Simon after my Golden Buzzer. I said, ‘Simon, thank you. You changed my life,’ and his response was, ‘No, you changed your life.’ And after my final performance, Mel B. said, ‘No matter what happens, you’re bigger than all this. You’re capable of having everything you want.’

WERE YOU REALLY NERVOUS BEFORE YOUR PERFORMANCES?

Oh, absolutely. I’m human. But it’s that good kind of nervous—the kind that reminds you that you care. Once I step on stage, though, the nerves turn into power. Four times, I got to show America and the world songs that I wrote myself. Yes, I get nervous, but this is what we’ve always dreamed of as artists!

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE BEING ON AGT?

Waiting! There’s so much downtime between performances. And you forget sometimes that it’s a competition show. So many times I wanted to hang with some of the contestants or do content with them, but then I had to snap back into reality that these folks are in my way of a million dollars (laughs). You’ve got to stay mentally sharp and keep your confidence in check. You’re there to do a job. Yes, you’re there to be friendly and a good sport, but you’re also there to compete and knock people out of a competition.

DO YOU THINK YOU’LL KEEP IN TOUCH WITH ANYONE FROM THE SHOW?

Yeah, I still talk to a few folks from the show. Mel B showed a lot of love, and Simon too. It felt genuine. I don’t think this is the last time our paths will cross. Also, a couple of the contestants. One of the contestants even flew out to see me and attended the U.S. Open Cup Final game with Austin FC that I hosted. I made some for life friends, as I like to call them.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN GOING BY MAMA DUKE, AND HOW DID YOU ADOPT THAT MONIKER?

In Black culture, everyone has a “Ma’ Dukes.” It’s something cool to call your mom. ‘I’m going to Ma’

Dukes’ house’ meant you were going to your mom’s house. When I was around 14 years old, my cousin started calling me Mama Duke, and it just stuck. I’ve been Mama Duke ever since.

YOU’RE AN AMBASSADOR FOR AUSTIN FC AND OFTEN EMCEE AND PERFORM AT THEIR GAMES AND EVENTS. HOW DID THAT COME ABOUT?

At first, they reached out to me to do “The Heartbeat,” which is when you hit the drum before the match as a call for the team to come out. Then they asked me to do a commercial for the release of their Austin FC x Adidas Samba collaboration, then asked me to be on a panel about culture, community, and major league sports—and the rest is history. They’ve truly uplifted me in unimaginable ways. Recently, they reached out and trusted me to write and record the song that’s been playing all season before every home match at Q2 Stadium in front of 20,000+ people. I owe them a lot of praise for including me in so many things. They are for the community and for the culture. I’m VERDE for life.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU WRITE SONGS?

All the time. Even when I’m not writing, I’m writing—notes, voice memos, random thoughts. It’s a constant flow.

AND YOU TEACH SONGWRITING?

Yeah! I love helping other artists find their voice. It’s one thing to write a song, but another to say something real. That’s what I focus on teaching. I recently did a songwriting class at Girls Rock in Austin. Everyone can write songs—that’s what I really want people to know. Want to write a song? Write one right now. It’s that easy.

IF YOU COULD COLLABORATE WITH ANYONE, WHO WOULD IT BE?

Missy Elliott, Noga Erez, Anderson .Paak, Will.i.am. I love genre-bending artists.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN AUSTIN?

I’ve lived in Austin longer than I have in any other city. Representing Austin on such a big stage has been the biggest gift. Being embraced by a city that I chose to plant my artist roots in is an honor.

WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU LOVE ABOUT AUSTIN?

I love that Austin and its people give you space to be yourself. Truly. Rap music got me here. Now I’m leaning more into pop and the support has gotten even stronger. People allow you to show up as you are. Even if I decided to go on a little country wave, the city would still be open to hearing and loving whatever that might sound like. Austin, Texas doesn’t embody or look like one thing anymore.

HOW ARE YOU SPENDING THE HOLIDAYS?

With family and close friends. I’ve quite literally been engulfed in a TV show for a whole year. I’ve been putting in so much work. I’m confident that when 2026 hits, my master plan to shake this city up will be in full effect. I cannot wait to see how the city responds to my next big moves.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2026?

I really feel like a kid in a candy store these days. So many options—where do you start when nothing is off limits? Touring, new music, and continuing to build my legacy. I’ll be songwriting a bunch next year. A lot of sync placements, a lot of traveling, a lot of fun!

CONTINUED >

“Move even when you don’t feel ready. Mean what you say when you speak. You get to tell people who you are, not the other way around.”

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU DO FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH?

Boundaries. That’s been the biggest one. Also therapy, and disconnecting when I need to. Joy is something I actively protect now. Medication! Haha. I want to normalize medication. I have attention deficit disorder (ADD) and truly could not have been this successful on AGT without it.

ANYTHING YOU’D LIKE TO ADD?

Just that I’m grateful for the love, the support, and the people who believed before the world caught on. This chapter is only the beginning. I’m building something bigger than me.

I want to remind people that everyone has their own blueprint. Your “big moment” might not look like mine or even like what you imagine, but it’ll be yours. I’m proud to say I’m the

first female rapper to make it to the Top 10 and if I had let not seeing people who looked like me discourage me, maybe you wouldn’t even know who I am today. Maybe I wouldn’t have been blessed with the privilege of being on the front cover of this magazine.

I say that to remind you that sometimes you’re the one who needs to walk into a certain room for it to change. Maybe it’s waiting on you. Maybe you’ll be the first in your family to break a generational curse or the first to speak up for fairness in your workplace—whatever it is, do the uncomfortable thing. Move even when you don’t feel ready. Mean what you say when you speak. You get to tell people who you are, not the other way around. And remember: You can always choose. It’s right there if you want it.

Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group

10 FACTS TO CELEBRATE THEIR 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

Emmer and Rye Hospitality Group started in 2015 when Kevin Fink and Tavel Bristol-Joseph took a chance building something new in a city that was then new to them. In the years since, it has left a permanent mark on the city, making a hefty contribution to its culinary evolution. Below are ten facts from the last decade. We can’t wait to see, and taste, what the next ten have in store.

-Hospitality Group was started by Kevin Fink and Tavel Bristol-Joseph, who worked together at Kevin’s father’s restaurant in Arizona before moving to Austin to open Emmer & Rye. It now includes partners Alicynn Fink, Berty Richter, and Rand Egbert.

-Kevin and Tavel both drove Uber in Austin prior to opening Emmer & Rye to get to know the city – and make some money.

-In 2024, Emmer & Rye received a Michelin Green Star for sustainability and a Michelin Bib Gourmand in Texas’ inaugural Michelin Guide.

-They now have five award-winning concepts in Austin: Emmer & Rye, Hestia, Canje, Ezov and Kalimotxo

-In San Antonio, the group operates Pullman Market, the largest culinary market in the Southwest, featuring four full-service restaurants, five quick-service eateries and the standalone restaurant Ladino at Pearl.

-Nicosi in San Antonio is an omakase dessert bar that was awarded a Michelin star this year! Nicosi is Tavel’s middle name – literally.

-Tavel started cooking by baking desserts with his grandmother for church in Guyana.

-They have a commitment to sustainability through a partnership with Zero FoodPrint, launched in 2019 to achieve carbon neutrality — which has helped them shape Austin’s culinary landscape while honoring the bounty and traditions of Texas ingredients.

-Their original goal was to build a restaurant that celebrated Texas farmers, the seasons and a way of cooking that felt deeply connected to place. Building on that idea and the community around it continues to be the goal.

- They announced plans for their first Houston concept, set to open in 2026.

Keeping Up with the McConaugheys

From MaMac to Levi, the whole family has a lot going on

Matthew McConaughey is out promoting his latest book Poems & Prayers and still doesn’t seem to miss a UT or Austin FC game. Camila McConaughey recently hosted her annual Women of Today wellness event focused on attaining and maintaining a healthy body and mind from nutrition to the thoughts we think. It’s where we met Kay “MaMac” McConaughey last year, and it’s growing

DO YOU WANT TO PURSUE ACTING? I do.

A LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED FROM YOUR DAD? To find time with yourself, because that’s the only person you’re stuck with for the rest of your life.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

each year. To get a bit of the vibe, put on “Listen to the Music” by the Doobie Brothers, a song Camila said was inspiring her while she wrote her keynote. And, this fall Matthew and Camila’s oldest son Levi McConaughey made his film debut in “The Lost Bus” – which also stars Matthew and MaMac!

We caught up with Levi for a quick chat at CLARINS lakeside Golden Hour soiree during F1 Grand Prix weekend.

WHAT GETS YOUR HEART RACING? Surfing.

WAS IT MORE CHALLENGING OR EASIER PLAYING OPPOSITE YOUR REAL DAD? It made it easier doing it with him because I have such a good relationship with him and in the movie we don’t have a good relationship, but we’d come out of it and give each other a hug, knowing that’s not how it is in real life.

Holiday in PortA

Port Aransas is festive, family-friendly–and has year-round fishing

Port Aransas is a coastal town 200 miles from Austin. Known as the fishing capital of Texas, there are fish-filled waters year-round, with red snapper commonly caught in the winter, and many family-friendly festivities during the holiday season. If you’re looking to stay somewhat local over winter break, but retreat to a place that feels festive and has a beach, Port A is just shy of a four-hour drive away. Here are some tips on what to do, where to stay and where to eat when you get there.

DO: December 12-14 is Holiday Shop Around in Port A. This three-day event is designed to highlight the small businesses that make the island special, while also giving shoppers the perfect opportunity to find meaningful holiday gifts. From coastal-inspired decor and handmade jewelry to boutique fashion and artisan goods, every purchase supports the community and offers something you can’t find in big-box stores.  Some stores not to miss are Coastal Closet, a go-to for clothing and stylish home

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

accents that bring a touch of the coast indoors.  Saltwater Gypsy, a favorite for boho-inspired home goods and accessories with a laid-back island vibe and  Raggdoll Boutique, which has trendy fashion finds and unique gifts that are perfect for the holidays.

The Annual Lighted Boat Parade and Holiday Drone Show are two of Port Aransas’ most anticipated holiday traditions. On December 13, boat owners deck out their vessels in sparkling lights and festive decorations and sail through the marina in competition for best decorated. Once the boats return to dock, the celebration continues with the Holiday Drone Show, where more than 150 illuminated drones fill the sky in dazzling patterns set to holiday music. With photos with Santa and Mrs. Clause, sweet seasonal treats, and plenty of cheer, it’s an event that captures the magic of the holidays on the Texas coast.

Sand Santa is a one-of-a-kind way to kick off the holiday season with true Port A flair. Each year, a world-class sand sculptor transforms tons of sand into something beautiful and full of holiday spirit. This year, the sculpture will be on display throughout December in a brand-new, more accessible location, giving visitors plenty of time to stop by, take photos, and marvel at this unique coastal tradition.

STAY: For the holidays, families looking for the perfect gathering spot in Port Aransas will find three standout choices.  Cinnamon Shore  offers a vibrant community

atmosphere with luxury beach homes, on-site dining and family-friendly events, making it ideal for those who want festive activities right outside their door. Palmilla Beach  provides spacious vacation rentals paired with resort-style amenities such as golf, pools, and easy beach access, giving families a mix of relaxation and recreation.  Sunflower Beach Resort  rounds out the list with beautifully designed homes and cozy cottages, plus a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families who want to slow down and enjoy quality time together. Beach homes at each of these properties come with multiple bedrooms and roomy common areas, making them a great choice for big families who want to stay under one roof and celebrate together. Each property combines comfort, convenience, and coastal charm, creating the perfect home base for holiday traditions in Port Aransas. Property management companies like Life in Paradise are another option for those who want to find unique homes to stay with their families..

EAT: For holiday dining in Port Aransas,  Miss K’s and  Snake Farm Pie Co. are go-to favorites. Miss K’s is known for homestyle holiday meals and ready-made dishes that make it easy for families to gather without spending the whole day in the kitchen. Snake Farm Pie Co. brings the spirit of the season with handmade pies and desserts that have become a tradition for many locals and visitors alike.

TKC’s Kind Cookie Winners Are....

Some of Austin's top bakers had a friendly competition for a good cause

It was a sold-out Super Coffee-drinking crowd at The Kitchen for The Kindness Campaign’s inaugural Kind Cookie Competition. A baker’s dozen were in competition. A slate of eight professional bakers including SusieCakes, Dai Due, Bakery Lorraine, Baked by Amy’s, Kurty’s Cookies, Local Foods, Walton’s Fancy & Staple and Sweet Treats Bakery vied for The 2025 Kind Cookie Award. Amateur bakers Kaylee Booth from the newly minted Sugar Lily Bakery, Julia Richards, Douglas Still and Molly Price competed for the Sweet Success Award and there was also a People’s Choice award at stake. The judges, Christy Carlson Romano, Dani Dudek, Riki Altman, Natalie Morales and Barbar Liu chose Sweet Lily Bakery as the Sweet Success winner and gave SusieCakes the top prize. The People’s Choice Award went to Kurty’s Cookies. But, everyone was a winner at the sweet event, emceed by Amanda Nelson, that helped support TKC’s work providing mental health tools for children.

Flashback TO F1PARTIES

The festivities surrounding Formula 1 reached new heights this year as brands invested in talent and production to host the best parties – and tested Austinites’ stamina racing around to all of them during one Saturday night. The first stop was CLARINS golden hour lakeside soiree where more than 300 guests celebrated at the Waller Creek Boathouse. Next up, Jack Daniel’s and the McLaren Formula 1 Team hosted another unforgettable Jack’s Garage at The Sunset Room. This year featured intimate performances from Canadian star Josh Ross, Nashville favorite Hannah McFarland and multi-platinum country artist Chase Rice.

Then, The One Party by Uber, an over-the-top extravaganza with a rodeo opening for Grammy award-winning group Zac Brown Band, who performed to a rapt audience of Uber One members who also enjoyed bites from  Terry Black’s BBQ  and Torchy’s Tacos.  And finally, SofiTukker and Xandra Pohl kept guests awake at the late night Sports Illustrated Circuit Series party.

Fun for a GOOD CAUSE

In Austin, philanthropic-filled social calendars run deep, even during busy months like October, with ACL, F1 and AFF, people turn out to help. Helping Hand Home for Children hosted its annual  Champions for Children luncheon presented by Don Hewlett Chevrolet Buick, which this year featured Connie Britton as a keynote speaker talking about her adoption journey and Coach Mack Brown accepting the Philanthropic Honoree honors on behalf of the Mack, Jack & McConaughey (MJ&M) Foundation… Lauren Zima and Chris Harrison hosted the first annual Experience Camps Gala at Ranch Austin, where they were married two years ago! It raised over $800,000 for Experience Camps coming to Texas to help grieving kids who have lost a parent or sibling – and it brought Bachelor Nation to Austin to support… Nearly 1000 people turned out for Contemporary Austin’s annual Very ‘Rary at Laguna Gloria with all proceeds benefiting the Contemporary’s K-12 education programs…The 22nd annual PlayBingo luncheon hosted by the Friends of Christoper Guild to benefit the Center for Child Protection was Shonnery Petit’s last as president before passing the torch, but it was a huge success, raising over $1.4 million! And, The Trail Conservancy hosted Twilight on the Trail on the gorgeous lawn of the Four Seasons Hotel. Guests arrived in green, played with baby goats and helped to raise over $650,000 to continue protecting and enhancing the beautiful Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

CONTINUED >

Austin FILM FESTIVAL

The 32nd annual Austin Film Festival and Writers Conference showcased over 180 films at five local theaters and hosted over 150 panels. Rian Johnson directed  “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” which had a red carpet screening opening night (he’s also directed “Glass Onion,” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”). We asked him how he creates worlds within his films that people believe in and he said, “The first step is for you to believe in the world you’re creating and you to kind of live inside it while you’re writing it, and then you do a lot of rewriting until it works.”

This year’s lineup includes “The Long Shot,” set in Austin and directed by Austin’s own Austin Nichols, “Not Without Hope,” starring local Zachary Levi, who also lives in the Austin area, “Christy,” starring Sydney Sweeney as boxer Christy Martin (pictured), “Sell Out,” “Forelock” and more.

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WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.