Cedar Park, TX July 2023

Here comes the sun! (doo, doo, doo, doo)

As any Texan knows, summer is the season of weather that is even hotter than usual. But it’s also the season of endless possibilities, breaking up our routines, and indulging in all that life has to offer. You could be hosting a poolside backyard barbecue or road-tripping to explore a new city, and the same sentiment would remain… Summer is your time to (sun)shine.

Even if you are still taking classes or are punching the clock, don’t let that stop you from making the most out of this summer. There is a world of things for you to do with your family and friends, or when you’re flying solo.

When I think about summer, I think about eating snow cones while listening to live music in the park. I think about getting way too excited while counting the number of squirrels that I see on nature hikes. I think about dragging my family along to as many weekend festivities as possible, whether at home or visiting our extended relatives. I think about kayaking and creeks and the beach. And I think about taking a break from the heat by curling up in bed with a good book—or, more accurately, many books.

There’s no denying the magic of summer. It invites us to be as adventurous or as relaxed as we wish on a given day. In our Summer Fun Issue, we hope that you find some ways to take this season up a notch.

As you read on, you’ll get a taste of what Cedar Park has to offer. You can follow your passion by joining a car club of other passionate people like SagePoint Financial’s Jeff Brecht, get your home in shape with customized tile and outdoor furniture options with da Vinci Pools, or visit Tuscano for summer drinks and Italian food with a Texas twist. You can even go on the hunt for Instagram-worthy murals, cool down with ice-cold treats, or jam out at a local entertainment venue.

This season truly does have something for everyone. So, let’s get the Summer Fun started! Happy 4th of July, happy National Ice Cream Month, and happy summer!

MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR @CEDARPARK_CITYLIFESTYLE

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION MANAGER

Greg Dugdale | greg.dugdale@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Schoolcraft

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

HAIR RESTORATION | PRP

HYDRAFACIAL | FACIAL BALANCING

LIP FILLER | CHEMICAL PEELS

BOTOX/DYSPORT | EMSCULPT

COOLSCULPTING | EXOSOME

THERAPY | IV THERAPY & BAR

DAHLIA DUO $275 ($389.00 VALUE)

30-MINUTE SIGNATURE

HYDRAFACIAL ($149 VALUE)

1 AREA OF BOTOX OR DYSPORT (UP TO 20 UNITS BOTOX OR 60 UNITS DYSPORT)

FOREHEAD | 11 LINES

CROW’S FEET | BUNNY LINES

LIP FLIP | GUMMY SMILE

DAO (FROWNY LINES)

Additional units/areas can be purchased at Magnolia membership pricing ($9.50/ unit normally $12/unit) during appointment

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @cedarpark_citylifestyle

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

B+A Medical Aesthetics hosts open house celebration and ribbon cutting

Dr. Nicole Basa, MD and Dr. Alan Abando, MD seen with city councilman Eric Boyce. B+A Medical Aesthetics brought the community together over bubbly, bites, and bingo. Alongside the Cedar Park Chamber, this state-of-the-art clinic celebrated its ribbon-cutting ceremony with a mix and mingle event. The goal of B+A Medical Aesthetics is to deliver personalized care through custom treatments. Services range from chemical peels to laser hair removal to IV hydration, utilizing leading-edge technology. bamedaesthetics.com

Wilco WorkSpaces expands within Scottsdale Drive location

With the addition of their new co-working spaces, Wilco WorkSpaces has created a better working environment. Its team is excited about the opportunity to give more community members a comfortable space to work in while creating connections with others. Expect to find designated quiet spaces in their library, larger designated desk areas with three meeting pods, and the newest addition of a content studio for recording podcasts and videos with your co-workers. wilcoworkspaces.com

Z'Tejas Southwest Grill promotes Shane Barnett and Danny O'Campo

For over 20 years, Shane Barnett and Danny O'Campo have been dedicated team members of Z'Tejas. Due to his delivery of exceptional dining experiences to guests as the General Manager of the Avery Ranch and Arboretum locations, Shane has now been promoted to Director of Restaurant Operations. Danny O'Campo has also been promoted, moving up to Executive Chef, on account of his passion for creating innovative, bold dishes. Both demonstrate a commitment to excellence. ztejas.com

Want to be featured?

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

Sip Back and Relax

GET YOUR DRINK FIX AT BECKER VINEYARDS AND TUSCANO ITALIAN KITCHEN

With over 200 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, the Texas Hill Country is known as Texas Wine Country. Fredericksburg’s Gillespie County is at the epicenter of it all, home to onefourth of those spots. It is even known for its dozens of food and wine festivals across every season. Earning worldwide honors for its award-winning creations, Fredericksburg has drinks that are perfect for every taste.

One must-see location on Fredericksburg’s Urban Wine Trail is Becker Vineyards. Having traveled extensively abroad and grown a passion for culinary and wine, Dr. Richard and Bunny Becker were inspired to establish their own winery. It began in the early-1990s with a cabin on 46 acres of raw land and is, today, an estate on 308 acres that maintains an “old world” feel.

Richard and Bunny were the first to commercially plant Viognier grapes in Texas, having learned everything they could about the variety during their time in France. They were also drawn to the Rhône countryside’s lavender. The Beckers’ 19th-century German stone barn has since been surrounded by beautiful lavender fields. They are now, in part, recognized for their annual Lavender Festival.

Becker Vineyards is also, of course, recognized for its wines. Served in the White House, the Texas Governor’s Mansion, and restaurants throughout the country, you can enjoy Becker Vineyards wines yourself. Drive out to Fredericksburg for a private tour of the estate, complete with a charcuterie board and pre-selected wine samples.

But you don’t always need to travel to Fredericksburg for flavorful wines

and charcuterie boards. There is a local hot spot right in our own backyard— Tuscano Italian Kitchen.

At the end of last year, Jay Roush and his wife Delanie officially opened the doors to Tuscano. Having purchased and helped revive Moonie’s Burger House nearly a decade prior, Jay was excited to have the opportunity to rework another restaurant.

“Delanie and I saw the potential the space and location had,” says Jay. “Cedar Park needed a more upscale dining option. We have changed the look and feel of the restaurant, improved the food quality and menu offerings, and really focused on the customer experience.”

Tuscano’s new summer menu includes a number of lighter options. You might be interested in a lighter option like an Italian ceviche or carpaccio, or a summer pasta with shrimp, scallops, and asparagus.

The goal behind the restaurant at large was to be true to traditional Italian heritage, but to also offer a Texas twist on a handful of menu items. This meant finding drinks that would pair well with and enhance their meals. To kick things off, Tuscano had its first wine dinner in partnership with Becker Vineyards, and another with Bent Oak Winery.

“Our team has been refining the wine list over the past few months. We have put more of an emphasis on local wineries, like Bent Oak and Becker, but also really dialed in on more Italian wines,” says Jay. “We recently brought in a terrific Barolo, a super Tuscan, Italian Pinot Grigio, as well as a Prosecco Rosé perfect for relaxing on our patio or in our lounge.”

The drinks don’t stop there. When dining at Tuscano, you can enjoy signature cocktails like a Spicy Sicilian—a margarita with fresh jalapeno and amaretto—and a Venetian with Prosecco, St-Germain, lime, and mint.

Looking to take a day trip this summer? Head to the Becker Vineyards estate at 464 Becker Farmers Rd, Stonewall or their downtown tasting room at 307 East Main St, Fredericksburg ! Then, if you are craving a delicious drink alongside an equally delicious meal, come out to Cedar Park’s own Tuscano Italian Kitchen at 1525 Cypress Creek Rd

"Tuscano is casually upscale, serving elevated Italian cuisine," says owner Jay Roush.

Creating from the Heart

FIND SOME OF THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS IN CEDAR PARK, COURTESY OF OUR LOCAL ARTISTS

In a world that is constantly evolving, fostering creativity is more important than ever. Creativity is what enables us to explore new perspectives and possibilities. Cedar Park’s artistic minds bring their unique style to build a sense of community with murals in our parks and on the walls of our businesses. Spend your summer getting to know just how vibrant they make our city! Start touring today and DM us your favorite mural. @cedarpark_citylifestyle

JEFF BRECHT LOOKS BACK ON HIS YEARS WITH THE LINCOLN & CONTINENTAL OWNERS CLUB

KEEPIN’

‘EM ON THE ROAD

Jeff Brecht is an independent financial advisor with SagePoint Financial. Since 2007, he has spent his days helping clients filter all the noise and being a voice they can trust. Brecht is also a member of the Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce, a rescuer of greyhounds, a collector of Star Wars memorabilia… And the proud owner of a road-worthy 1981 Lincoln Continental Mark VI.

When he was younger, Brecht’s dad took him to auto shows. At these shows were welcoming salespeople who shared with them the newest models and concept pieces. Brecht would go on to pick up stacks of showroom brochures, which inspired him to shift his degree from political science to advertising.

“One time, an advertising professor actually came up to me and asked if I wanted a job because I was the only one who had made an A in her class. So, from 1988 to 1990, I put showroom brochures together,” says Brecht.

With his interest in cars only growing, Brecht would go on to join the Lincoln & Continental Owners Club. Following an experience with the

members of a Houston chapter helping him look into a car, he showed up to a Cedar Park board meeting to see how things were. And despite being fresh-faced and the youngest guy in the room, he wound up as, surprisingly to him, the assistant director.

“I was intimidated, thinking you had to be a real expert on these cars and they had to be museum-quality. It isn’t like that at all,” says Brecht. “We’re a people club, not a car club. These cars are what bring us together.”

Now club president, Brecht was still on the lookout for his own dream ride. What he didn’t expect was that, instead of a four-door, an ad for a metallic brown Lincoln would catch his eye. Because of how expensive it was, he filed it as a pretty car and moved on.

“But the ad popped up again and the price was very reasonable. I just thought, ‘Let me see what’s going on with this car,’” says Brecht. “The next morning, I get a call first thing, and the owner says, ‘We’d like to treat you like a rockstar for the day.’”

The owner had millions of sky miles available because he was working for BMW and no longer traveling. Brecht decided that being flown out to Ohio would be fun and, for that matter, a great story. So, before he had even fully figured out how he would get the car all the way back to Texas, Brecht was getting on a flight.

“We actually ended up having such a good time talking about the car that I missed my flight back,” says Brecht. “I can’t say enough about how fun that trip was. I’m still in touch with these guys today.”

Fast forward and Brecht’s Mark VI has seen it all. It has been in the Cedar Park 4th of July parade, a VIP car for a judge in the Leander

Christmas parade, and was featured in the movie Everybody Wants Some!! while filming in San Marcos. What makes the 40-year-old vehicle especially stand out, though, is how it performed at the 2019 LCOC Western National Meet in Junction, Colorado.

Brecht’s Mark VI had no problems driving all the way to Colorado through the middle of virtually nothing. There were no problems driving into elevation, through the mountains, or through the tunnels. Not only did the car pass with flying colors on the drive, but it also won best in class.

“To anybody who’s ever wanted a classic car, you don’t have to be a mechanic. There are cars for every level of ability,” says Brecht. “We don’t have tomorrow—it’s not guaranteed. So don’t save your classic car and never drive it. Go out and enjoy it.”

lcoc.org

SUPERB CUSTOM QUALITY FROM DAY ONE

SPEND SUMMER IN STYLE WITH TILES AND OUTDOOR FURNITURE FROM THE DA VINCI POOLS SHOWROOM

For over two decades, da Vinci Pools has served the Greater Austin area as a premier pool builder, partnering with trusted brands to improve their clients’ experience. With the opening of their North Austin showroom, Guido and Wendy Del Re and the da Vinci Pools team are excited to expand into retail and offer those products to more than just the clients they build for.

One of these brands is outdoor furniture and accessory company Ledge Lounger. At the da Vinci Pools showroom, you can come in and feel the signature chaises, Adirondack chairs, and umbrellas.

“Ledge Lounger is Texas-based and their products are made to withstand our elements,” says Guido. “We have their furniture on our deck, and even with 60-mile-per-hour winds, it doesn’t move.”

da Vinci Pools also works with Dallas-based knoxtile and Houston-based Keystone Tile to create customized options for clients. Brands include Mosa, Bisazza, and more from Turkey, Italy, and Japan for a look that perfectly fits your style, whether it be in and around your pool or inside your home.

“We chose to work with knoxtile because of the owners. They are really knowledgeable in the industry,” says Wendy. “We’re the only company here that has knoxtile products on display. As we expand, we’re going to have even more of it.”

“Keystone is a brand that we decided to pick because they are a source, not a middle person,” says Guido. “There are other places in Austin that carry Keystone tile, but the tile we display is exclusive to us.”

No longer do you have to make the long drive or shop online to get products that are made to last. Because da Vinci Pools has the resources to build a seamless custom design, you get the full experience right around the corner.

On August 3rd, da Vinci Pools is hosting an open house at 10401 Anderson Mill Rd, Suite 120 to share what they have to offer your home. Come browse and buy high-quality products for your backyard—or even your home’s interior! davincipools.com

THE BRIGHTER, THE BETTER

Step into the summer with fashionable clothing and accessories from Grit & Grace Boutique

For Shauna Cotton and Amanda Madden, owners of Grit & Grace Boutique, this summer is the time to effortlessly blend style and comfort. While we’re moving away from athleisure, staying casual is still in with easy, fun fashion. Whether you are sticking around Cedar Park or traveling to another sunny destination, embrace breezy dresses. Throw on a wedge for an evening look, or dress down with sandals and tennis shoes. Get ready to hit the pool with lightweight acrylic jewelry. And to keep feeling fabulous all season long, fill your wardrobe with bright colors. gritandgraceboutique.com

beat the heat with a sweet treat

Did you know that Andy’s Frozen Custard started in 1986? Nearly four decades later, John and Carol Kuntz are proud to have founded the largest dessert-only franchise in the world. Despite this growth, the brand’s commitment to freshness has never wavered. With its top focus being on providing quality products, Andy’s always serves its custard within one hour after it’s made, creates baked goods fresh daily, and only uses real fruit. Whether you are craving a concrete, sundae, or banana split, cool down this summer when you visit Andy’s at 1210 N Bell Blvd, Cedar Park .

AN INTIMATE MUSIC EXPERIENCE

Join in the fun at Steamer Lane Music with owners Ken and Peggy Kujawa

WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE WITH OPENING STEAMER LANE MUSIC?

“We first opened to the public during COVID, when we felt musicians and audiences needed an outdoor space to come together and try to feel normal again. We reached out to Shake Russell who we had been fans of since the ‘70s. We were shocked that he would be interested in playing on our little stage, but it all fell into place and it was just a magical moment.”

HOW WOULD YOU SAY THAT OPENING NIGHT DROVE YOU TO WHERE YOU ARE TODAY?

“Shake Russell was so complementary to the venue. He went over his set time by over an hour. The energy was unmatched, and it really set the bar for what was possible and what this could all be. It showed us that this experience was something we could continue giving to the public. The shows, the musicians, the audiences… They have all been remarkable and unforgettable ever since.”

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT WHEN THEY VISIT STEAMER LANE MUSIC?

“On a Friday or Saturday night, you’ll hear lots of woo-ing and clapping. You’ll

see kids running laps around the beautiful property, and people in chairs and sitting on blankets. Depending on the night, there are typically local food trucks, but it’s always BYOB. We can’t forget to mention the giant seesaw and the purple bathroom featuring art from none other than the king of surf, Corky Carroll! You’ll always find little hidden gems.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT SHARING LIVE MUSIC WITH CEDAR PARK?

“There is a unique energy and experience that comes with live music. People are brought together in that specific moment, creating a sense of community that can only be found at a live show. At Steamer Lane, we always intend to provide an experience centered around the music and the musicians. Here, people interact with the musicians, dance, and fully immerse themselves in the artistry happening on stage.”

Keep up with the show schedule at steamerlanemusic.com  (designed by Skyler Nelson) so that you can get your tickets before the doors open at 603 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park

CITY LIFESTYLE

Summer Bucket List

Welcome, summer! As a hyper-local publication, we thrive on helping our readers make connections with the cities they live in, the businesses that make up their communities and the inspiring individuals making a positive mark.

Are you ready for your most adventurous, fun summer? Here are summer bucket list ideas for you to accomplish this year. We hope you’ll explore a new neighborhood, spend a lazy Saturday afternoon at a new winery or taste the flavors at a local ice cream shop. Let us know what you discover and enjoy! We’d love to hear.

KIDS ADULTS

Take

Visit

Go

Explore

Try

Hike

Explore

Go

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

JULY 1ST

Lucky Rabbit Car Show on first Saturday of each month

18626 FM RD 1431, JONESTOWN, TX 78645 | 11:00 AM

Year-round, the Lucky Rabbit is a great spot for kicking back and relaxing with live music from local bands, ice-cold local beer and handcrafted cocktails, and family-friendly arcade games. But did you know that you can also check out some amazing cars each month? All cars are welcome to participate in the event, and admission is free. luckyrabbitbar.com

JULY 3RD

Leander’s Liberty Fest at Devine Lake Park

1807 WATERFALL AVE, LEANDER, TX 78641 | 6:00 PM

As the largest annual event in Leander, Liberty Fest is a must. All ages are welcome to attend this free event. Your family will listen to music from Madison Rodges and Departure ATX leading up to a spectacular fireworks display. You can also buy $10 Kids Zone wristbands for your children to play on the bounce houses and slides. leandertx.gov

JULY 4TH

Cedar Park’s July 4th Celebration at Elizabeth Milburn Park 1901 SUN CHASE BLVD, CEDAR PARK, TX 78613 | 5:00 PM

Don’t miss out on Cedar Park’s own Independence Day celebration! There will be live music, carnival rides, inflatables, concessions, fireworks, and a movie in the park imme-

diately following the fireworks show. It’s the ultimate way to come together with your neighbors on the 4th of July. Admission is free, but make sure to purchase some delicious food truck eats. cedarparktexas.gov

JULY 13TH

Ace Frehley performs at Haute Spot with Kore Rozzik opener

1501 E NEW HOPE DR, CEDAR PARK, TX 78641 | 7:00 PM

Best known as co-founding member and original lead guitarist of Kiss, you may know Ace Frehley as The Spaceman. Ace has experienced much commercial success following his farewell from Kiss, including his first solo album going platinum. He is now making his Haute Spot debut. Get your tickets now to enjoy an evening at Haute Spot’s spacious, open-air venue. hautespot.live

JULY 15TH & 16TH

Action Fest & Market at Wilco WorkSpaces

1615 SCOTTSDALE DR #200A, LEANDER, TX 78641

Austin Action Fest & Market is a film festival, film market, live action event, and video game tournament wrapped into one fun weekend. It was the brainchild of three Austin area artists who wanted action-oriented storytelling to have a bigger platform. Purchase your passes online now to watch film genres like kung fu flicks, thrillers, and horror. filmfreeway.com

JULY 18TH & 19TH

Blues on the Green at Zilker Metropolitan Park

2100 BARTON SPRINGS RD, AUSTIN, TX 78704 | 8:00 PM

Coming in at 351 acres, Zilker Park is known as one of the most loved parks in Austin, offering a variety of special events. That includes Austin City Limits Radio’s classic Blues on the Green. The free summertime concerts of Blues on the Green bring thousands of people together each year. Bring your blankets and cold beverages! austintexas.org