Spring 2012

Ladybird Lake Lake Austin Lake Travis Lake Marble Falls Lake LBJ Lake Buchanan
Austin
City of
Lakeway
Lakeway
Commons
Lake Travis
Tropic Tan
Roccos Grill
Wells Fargo Bank
Spa at the Lake
Cafe CastroNova
Edward Jones Lakeway Pediatric Associates
Lakeway Eye Center
Java Dive Cafe
Artisan Bistro
O Realty
Dominos Pizza
Mission Family Chiropractics
Suzie Ds
Dr. Winston Eaddy, DDS
Cristianis Jewelers
City of
Lakeway
Lakeway
Commons
Lake Travis
Luxury Nails
Finley's Barber Shop
Reids Cleaners
Fore
Lake Travis Podiatry
PakMail
Heart HR
A beautiful Hill Country setting for your shopping and dining.
Lakeway Blvd & RR 620 S www.lakewaycommons.com 512.266.3163
Visit us for the Lakeway Farmers Market Sunday 9am to 1:00pm
Blues Day Studio
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512.415.9023
Amber Hart realtor

THANK YOU FOR THE PRIVILEGE OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY IN 2011!

BA, CLHMS, ILHM, CNE
10
CHAMPIONSHIP PARADE FOR LAKE TRAVIS
14
SOME WORDS WITH DR. BRAD LANCASTER
18
SETON TEA
22
2012 AUSTIN BOAT SHOW
28
WATCH OUT!
38
BUSINESS PROFILES
40
2012 DELL CHILDRENS GALA
42
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR COMMUNITY?
43
BLOCK PARTY!
44
Q&A WITH DEBUT AUTHOR, KEIJA PARSSINEN
46
ICONIC AUSTIN BY HEATHER MEYER
47
NEW YEARS EVE WITH TEXARTS
48
SING ALONG
50
DANCE INSTITUTE
Waterways Magazine
604 Peterson Lane; Lakeway, TX 78734
waterwaysmag@gmail.com
www.waterwaysmagazine.com
EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Cathie Parssinen 512.785.6313
DESIGNER: Sheila Parr waterwaysdesign@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTORS
EDITORIAL: Jerry Moore, Keija Parssinen,
Steve Zbranek
PHOTOGRAPHY: Marco Alvarado, Heather Meyer,
Brandi Nellis, Andy Sams, Michele Wu
10
40
28
Spring
2012
ABOUT THE COVER
Brandi Nellis cover shot of Leslie Trammell captures the promise and pleasures of Spring.
Wardrobe and Jewelry by Adorn Home & Body, Elle watch from Harrison Jewelers,
Highlights by Jillian Houghton of As The Hair Turns, Style compliments of Salon U, Spa
by Poolscapes
44
14
263-3600
2422 RR 620 SOUTH
SUITE A140
LAKEWAY, TEXAS
Furniture
Accessories
LIghting
Design
Apparel : Jewelry : Gifts
2127 Lohmans Crossing Road,
Suite 301, Lakeway
www.adornaustin.com
Junior Apparel Coming Soon!
Pool Remodels | Concrete Decks | Pebble Finishes | Quartz Plaster | Stone Work | Waterfalls
Retainer Walls | Concrete Work | Lifetime Warranties Available | FREE Estimates
www.handhtileandplaster.com
512.264.1979
MEMBER
Redening Your Backyard Dreams!
H
UNDREDS LINED the main street at the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave for a
parade that paid tribute to the accomplishments of the Lake Travis High School football
team for winning its fifth straight state title. The parade and crowd also honored schol-
ars and athletes in other sports.
Championship Parade
for Lake Travis
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Corbin Crow, Tony and Kristin Holt
Kelby Radford (67), Sam Richardson (68)
Sierra Patrick, Claire McCown
Lake Travis Youth Association Cheer Squad Jude Jeffres
Vincent Villagomez, Dane Balazs, Tyler Voos, Hagan Patterson
Ann Parmerter, Stella Kang, Madison Mallett
Elmo gets a hug!
Chase Karnstadt (64), Hunter Siddons (65),
Coach Robert Rayos, Coach George Oakes
Call Us!
512-263-3669
GREENSCAPES was proud to be a part of the
EXTREME MAKEOVER HOME EDITION
GreenScapes
L ANDSCAPI NG & POOL S
www.GreenScapesAustin.com
Bastrop, TX
Brandon Quintero, Ryan Jones
LTHS Tennis Team trucks around with Premier Partners
LTHS Marching Band
Lake Travis High School Cavalettes
Lake Travis Fire Rescue
Blake Burdette, Griffin Gilbert Joanna and Jason Crabtree
John and Daniel Breedlove
Lake Travis High School Marching Band
3700 BEE CAVES ROAD #102, AUSTIN TX 78746
512-516-5730
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www.whitneynewtonproperties.com
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Joanna and Jason Crabtree
14 Waterways | Spring 2012
WW: Dr. Lancaster, was it difficult to leave Waco Midway to come to Lake
Travis? I understand you were very tied to that community.
BL: I had been at Midway for five years, and in that period of time you
come to really know the issues, to really know your community. I knew the
Board very well and the Chief of Police and the Mayors, the City Council
members, and the staff. We had just finished all the construction from a
May 2008 Bond Election, and we were approaching the STARR exams and
looking again at our future growth. Our daughter had graduated in May and
our son was a sophomore at Midway
High School. My wife Karen and I are
both Baylor graduates, and we loved
the Waco community and had many
friends there. We loved our church,
and our families were nearby. Karen
had a wonderful, part-time job teach-
ing marketing classes at the School of
Business at Baylor. We were very, very
comfortable and there was no compel-
ling reason to move or change.
WW: Can you describe your decision
to come to Lake Travis?
BL: Mike Moses, former Texas
Commissioner of Education, talked with me about the Lake Travis
Superintendent job early in the fall of 2011. I essentially told him I was not
interested, and why. Ironically, a Lake Travis teacher I had gone to high
school with had written me, saying I should consider the job. I wrote back
that they would never hire a country bumpkin like me! Then, Dr. Moses
called me back in October, saying that my name had come up several times.
He insisted that at least I consider talking to the Lake Travis Board. He
emphasized that Lake Travis was among the top districts in the state.
I had a great meeting with this very strong Board. They called back to
say they wanted to meet again and they wanted me to bring my wife. We
want to get serious about this conversation, they said. They offered me the
job on December 1. I joined Lake Travis just nine weeks from the day Mike
Moses first called methat is unusually fast in terms of how school districts
conduct a search for a superintendent.
WW: What was the turning point in your decision, given your satisfaction
with Midway?
BL: After looking at Lake Travis we thought we would never get an oppor-
tunity like this again. Lake Travis is an astonishingly successful school dis-
trict, and the people could not have been nicer. The growth rate is attractive
to me professionally. We are expected to double, or nearly double, in just
ten years. As an educator, I would much rather be leading a district that
is experiencing really phenomenal, positive growth. No district ever stays
Some Words with Dr. Brad Lancaster
AN INTERVIEW | PHOTOS BY MARCO ALVARADO AND MICHELE WU
ON DECEMBER 1, the Lake Travis ISD School Board unanimously voted to offer Dr. Brad Lancaster the position of Superintendent of Schools. His
responsibilities will be widespread, and his leadership skills will be critical, as he guides our geographically huge district through a period of expansive
growth. His influence in our community will be far-reaching, and every resident will be impacted by his tenure. Instead of summarizing the nine page
rsum that details his extraordinary academic and professional accomplishments, we feel you will get a truer measure of the nature of the man after read-
ing the perspectives he shared with Waterways below.
Dr. Lancaster visits with students at Bee Cave Elementary School during his first week as LTISD superintendent.
Call me today to market your property!
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16 Waterways | Spring 2012
flat. You are either experiencing shrinking enrollment---which is very, very
difficult because youre closing buildings, laying off teachers and staff--- or
youre growing. Not many districts are growing at 6-7% a year, like Lake
Travis is, and what is attractive is that the level of cooperation between the
school district and the communities that are managing this growth is very
high. The District is already prepared, with multiple school sites that have
already been purchased, to accommodate growth over the next ten to fif-
teen years. It will be professionally exciting for me to serve a district facing
the challenge of this sort of growth.
The election for the bond issue took place the night before the Board
made me lone finalist, and the bond passed. If the bond had failed, we
wouldnt have changed our minds, but the next 18 months would have been
very different for me. But the fun part begins now! We actually start the
construction, and there are clearly established methods and procedures for
that and our District excels at that sort of thing.
Also, Lake Travis has a history of compensating staff well, and that
means that we have been able to hire the very best people. The financial
compensation, plus the fact that this is a beautiful place to live and work,
makes Lake Travis very competitive in the search for talent.
We would not have moved if we didnt think we were coming to a place
that was just as good as where we came from. The fact that Lake Travis
has high academic programming is especially important to us since our
son is a sophomore in high school. His confidence and the ease with which
he makes friends made our decision easier. My son, Will, had Lake Travis
friends on Facebook before we even left Midway. Everything fell into place
so quickly, that this decision has felt almost pre-ordained for our family and
me every step of the way. Someone asked me the other day if I like it here
and, as I looked out the window of our new home and saw the beautiful Hill
Country horizon, I thought to myself, Whats not to like?
WW: What do you see as your major challenges?
BL: Initially we have to prepare for the STARR exams, the new testing and
accountability system. The construction that is about to start will be an
obvious challenge, although we have excellent people in place to address
that process. In addition, the constant conversation
going forward will be about preparing for more rapid
and expansive growth.
Over the next eight weeks or so, I will have meetings
with each member of the leadership team, the critical
people in the district, including principals, assistant
principals, human resources people, finance people,
and others. And I will be asking them, Whats the most
important thing I should be doing? I will also be meet-
ing with each school board member one-on-one. After
I meet with these folks individually and assess their
personal concerns and ideas, then the board and I will
come up with a more detailed list of superintendent
goals. The fine tuning of these goals will happen after
we have had to opportunity to get to know one anoth-
er and after Ive had a chance to take the pulse of the
school district.
WW: I hear that your leadership style is one reason for
your popularity. How would you describe your style?
BL: Well, what would you call itcountry hick?
Goofball rube? My wife and I have talked about this. I
see a part of my role, at least initially, is to be visible,
accessible and a relationship person in the community.
This is another little piece of the puzzle that makes me
wonder if I ever really even had a choice about com-
ing here is that I dont see myself as a slash-and-burn change agent. There
are situations where a clear role for swift and abrupt change is necessary
from a leader. That is just not my style, and Lake Travis does not need that.
Although my wife would argue with this, Im not sure that I am a real strate-
gic systems thinker. My wife is in marketing, so I asked her what she would
call me if she had to characterize my style. And she said peace maker. And
I believe a big part of my role over the coming months will be focused on one
of the things I do bestand that is connecting with people. Additionally, my
job is to make sure that the central office staff is doing what we can to serve.
We are service providers. Our administration group serves the campuses so
that our teachers and principals can provide what our children need.
My son and I were talking shortly before we left about the outpouring of
sentiment we experienced from the Midway community about our leaving.
And I asked Will, Why do you think that is? And I told him, You know,
nobody really cares that I have a doctoral degree. Nobody cares how smart
I am. Nobody cares about whether I work 80 hours a week or 10 hours a
week. Nobody cares about how low the interest rate was on the bonds we
managed to secure. People care about how I treat them. That was important
to your grandfather, and thats important to me. People are sorry to see us
go because I treated them with care and respect. Its not about brains. Its
not about money. Its not about the technical details of my job. Its about
how I interact with people. Even in times of struggle, maintaining respect
and dignity for others in times of disagreement is my standard.
_____
I left my interview feeling very sorry for Midway, not because they lost
to the Lake Travis High School Football team in the battle for the State
Championshipbut because they lost Dr. Brad Lancaster.
tools for successful living
For inquiries contact Linda Williamson, Director, Discovery! Austin
(512) 276-8967 3001 RR 620 South, Suite 328, Austin 78738
Visit www.discovery-austin.org for more information and class registration.
Discovery! is a 501 (c) 3 non-proft organization
Want to communicate better?
It starts at the heart!
achievempt@gmail.com

512 263-1795

www.achievempt.com
1310 Ranch Road 620 South Suite B-10 Lakeway, TX 78734
Lakeway Plaza by Ciolas Restaurant

Neck, Back and SIJ pain

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Muscle Imbalances
Leilani M. Connors, PT FAAOMPT
Director
PHYSICAL THERAPY LAKEWAY
Star State Heart & Vascular
is pleased to announce that
Dr. DeMaios Austin offce
is now open!
Until his medical offce is ready at the new
Lakeway Hospital, he will see patients at 1008
RR 620 South, Suite 250 in Lakeway. We are
accepting appointments.
to make an appointment.
Samuel DeMaio
MD, FACC, FASCI
New Austin Office!
Call 512-263-0123
T
HE HILLS Country Club was filled to capacity for the Seton Tea benefitting Seton Shoal Creek
Psychiatric Hospital, the only acute care psychiatric hospital in Austin that treats children, teens and
adults. Popular vote determined the winners among those who created clever themed tablescapes.
Co-chair Barbara Beebe reminded the competitors that the real winner of the day was Seton Shoal Creek.
Seton Tea
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
If You Take A Pig To Tea by The Lakeway Friends
Babes of Lake Travis (BLT): Maureen Gunderson, Dawana Downey,
Terry Jones, Kim Somerville, Jean Hennagin, Susan McQuade
Built To A Tea
President, Kim Nearburg;
Event Co-Chair, Nancy Clayton
Back: Margaret Herman, Mary Lee Reese, Carol Mitchum, Jody Berry,
Patsy Brister, Christine Wotkyns; Front: Linda Swan, Vickie Taylor,
Janet Eaddy
Event Co-Chairs Sue Cornett, Cindy Kotrady, Barbara Beebe
Barbara Robert, Nancy Wagner, Dianne Haeg, Kay Beasley, Maureen Powell, Maggie Kadlecek, Shelley Smith,
Molly English
Honorable mentions:
#1 Built to a Tea by the Babes of Lake Travis (BLT)
#2 A Musical Journey by Sing Along
#3 Tea-lightful by the Bridge Club
3rd Runner Up: Sippin Tea Til the Cows Come Home (Carol
Mitchum)
2nd Runner Up: Books Unlock the World (Barbara Pembrey
on behalf of the LT Community Library)
1st Runner Up: 2012: The Year of the Dragon (Jean Edward,
Garden Club)
Best of Show: If You Take
A Pig To Tea (Nancy Wagner,
Lakeway Friends)
Bubba Breazeale
E.H.
E.H. Bubba Breazeale, Realtor

(512) 517-4247 Toll Free 800-252-9606

b_breazeale@msn.com www.lakewaytexas.com
EXPERIENCE DOES COUNT!
Selling Lake Travis Area Residential
and Commercial Real Estate since 1976
By appointment only
and private parties
Call 512-657-0513 to
make an appointment
Specializing in Botox,
Juvederm and Restylane
All procedures done by a
certied Physician Injector
amy demaio
owner/president
1008 rr 620 south, suite 250 in lakeway
radiant
faces
2127 Lohmans Crossing, #300
Lakeway 512.266.1715
Fine Diamonds
and Exquisite
Custom Jewelry
Designs by Robert Harrison,
Certied Master Bench Jeweler
Estate Jewelry and Watches
Appraisals
20 Waterways | Spring 2012
Back: Jeanne Anne Klein, Margaret Kilgo, Dee Ann Farrell; Front: Donna Kumar,
LaNell Edwards, Dottie Stevenson
Back: Sherry Bettis, Pat Hahn, Pamela Doerr, Linda Lauret;
Front: Elizabeth Futch, Kim Nearburg, Sally Barto
Paulina Travera, Karen Schaefer
Eileen Friesz, Sue English
Diane Jackson, Joann Anderson
Barbara Glover, Barbara May, Roseanne Palin
Paula Cawthon, Carol Hudson, Jill Ukeiley, Jean Edwards, Susan Mullens,
Maureen Mulrooney, Barbara Carpenter
Books Unlock The World
Morgan McMilliam,
Barbara Pembrey
Elizabeth Futch, Gretchen Nearburg
Sister Gertrude Levy; Director of
Patient and Guest Relations, Seton
Let your food
speak for itself!
512-266-5666 Open 7 Days a Week
1501 Ranch Road 620 North, Lakeway, TX 78734
Shop Us Online!
www.faradayskitchenstore.com
Perrier. Thats French for club soda.
It cuts like a knife but it feels so right.
Cooking is an art, but you eat it too.
Gentlemenstart your engines.
I
T IS TRUE that the disastrous drought in Central Texas has leveled a body punch at many
businesses whose core activities are lake-related, either directly or indirectly. But there have been
some notable exceptions. Eriksen Marine had a banner 2011, with sales exceeding records set in
2005 and 2006, and they have started 2012 off with guns blazing. In an average January, they sell one
to two boats. In January 2012, sales were unprecedented. The demand for their pre-owned, fresh water
boats couldnt be hotter and may actually have increased during the economic downturn, as the boating
enthusiast seeking great value may be looking more carefully at the pre-owned market
In the meantime, we await El Nino and the return of the rains.
2012 Austin Boat Show
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Wow!
Jerry Mudd and Grant Eriksen of Eriksen Marine
Buzz Watkins and Roger Duffee from Sail & Ski, Wally Hein
David Oliva, Kelley and David Tripp Chase Featherston with
the Can-Am Spyder from
Woods Fun Center
Checking it out
Marly and Landon Riffe, Jeff Parker
Jim, Aaron, Aliza and Natalie Stone
5975 Hiline Road Austin, Texas 78734
512 266 3493 eriksenmarine.com
BUY YOUR BOAT FROM THE POWERBOAT EXPERTS
Full Service Yard with 50 ton and 24 ton Travelifts
See our Huge Inventory of
Clean, Used Boats & Yachts
at www.eriksenmarine.com!
Diana Thomas
512-970-4489
dianathomasrealtor.com
I am your LAKE TRAVIS real estate specialist!
I work, live and
play here . . .
Let Me
Sell Your Home
24 Waterways | Spring 2012
Carol Lee, Robert Barlow, John Horn
Vance, Talen, Michelle and James Myers, Dave and Ashley Ricci with Cassie and Brock
Haylee Tuttle, Dylan Lewis
Jules Mokry, Blakely Dimiero
Maya, Jacob, Anna and Olivia Tallent
Addison, Kristen and Avery Ales
Ken Milam, The Zone; Jo Karr Tedder, Central Texas
Water Coalition
Travis Holland of Lake LBJ Dock Service
Stan Lewis, Kim Bowen
Shelia, Ben and Cortney Johnston
T
HE GENERALLY anemic state of the homebuilding industry
makes the astonishing growth of Lake Hills Custom Homes, LLC
all the more remarkable. Within the past year, Lake Hills has
placed nine homes under contract that are in various phases of construc-
tion throughout the greater Austin area. All are high end, full-fledge cus-
toms ranging in size from 3,800 to 8,000 square feet and in price from
$500,000 to $2 million. The companys trajectory from an unknown
startup two years ago to an emerging player in the custom homebuilding
business, in an area facing the welcome promise of growth, owes its course
to a combination of factors.
THE TEAM
Nearly two years ago, Sean Hammond started Lake Hills Custom Homes,
LLC with his entrepreneurial spirit, experience, and love for the homebuild-
ing industry. Shortly after that, Steve Meier joined as a second partner with
many years of extensive experience running the field operations of several
major home builders. In June of 2011, Taylor OBrien, a graduate
of the Construction Science program at Texas A&M University,
became a third partner after six and a half years running the
Austin division of a major custom home building company. The
three owners offer a combined total of over 40 plus years in the
homebuilding industry.
Other members of the team are Natalie Hammond, Pippa
Dean, and Victoria Beasley. Natalies extensive background in
management makes her a key component in the efficiency and
productivity of the business. Pippa and Victoria, also key compo-
nents, focus on marketing and business development. We pride
ourselves in being the customers advocate, says Mrs. Beasley.
We dont just execute a contract and move on, we are the clients
eyes and ears as construction moves forward.
Lake Hills Custom Homes
Steve Meier, Victoria Beasley, Sean and Natalie Hammond, Taylor OBrien, Pippa Dean
27 Spring 2012 | Waterways
SYMPHONY OF A CUSTOM HOME
Just like the four movements of a symphony, building a
custom home requires the consumer to harness the skills of
many professions. One of the great things about Lake Hills
Custom Homes is its turnkey service. Lake Hills has access
to many of the finest architects, Realtors

, engineers, sur-
veyors, and lenders in the profession. This simplifies life for
the consumer and allows the process to be met at ease.
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS,
BUILDING BUSINESS
A family who builds a custom home essentially adopts a
builder for a period of nine months to a year. It is an inti-
mate, absorbing relationship, and successful builders hone
impressive interpersonal skills and more often than not
become friends with their customers. Taylor OBrien is a
case in point. I dont know how many times I have heard
people I have built homes for tell me that the only reason
they choose my company to build their home was because
of their relationship with the team, explains Taylor.
Building from referrals has been a major factor contribut-
ing to our success. Builders are like hairdressers people
follow them wherever they go.
SETTING EXPECTATIONS
The one thing we impress on our customers is that build-
ing a home can be a complicated process and that problems
inevitably arise. We set expectations so that our clients
understand that we will always find a solution, no matter
what the problem. Its all about building trust. Customer
service is our number one goal.
THE FUTURE
The second half of 2011 was very strong for Lake Hills, and the team antici-
pates continued growth, making sure they maintain an impeccable level
of service for an expanding list of future customers. If one is thinking of
building a custom home, its never too early to get the builder involved in
the process. A builder, such as Lake Hills Custom Homes, LLC, can offer
unparalleled experience in lot selection, plan design, and budget. Call Lake
Hills today for a free lot or floor plan consultation at 512-608-9388 or visit
us on the web at www.LakeHillsCustomHomes.com.
28 Waterways | Spring 2012
I
N A QUOTE in the January 12 edition of The Guardian, Jean-Daniel Pasche, head
of the Swiss watch federation expressed optimism about projected growth rates in the
watch industry for 2012. The Swiss luxury watch industry has been immune to the per-
ils of the global slowdown, waltzing relatively unscathed through the economic turmoil. The
good fortune experienced by the industry has been driven in large measure by the explosion
of wealth in China and India, where a growing population of elites has discovered an appetite
for luxury goods, including luxury watches. Swiss watch exports in 2011 increased by 19-20%
over exports in 2010. Risks involve the possibility that Asian demand may slow and thus be
unable to offset sluggish sales in Europe due to its economic problem and austerity measures
in the U.S. Despite these cautions, analysts confirm the sectors resilience.
Raymond Weils dispute with Charlize Theron resulted after pictures taken by two pho-
tographers revealed the actress wearing a Dior watch in public. Raymond Weil spent a for-
tune on an ad campaign centered around Theron, and part of her $20 million dollar deal
involved a contractual obligation to wear only Raymond Weil watches in public. She was
forced to repay the watchmaker!
Waterways takes a look at some local folks and the watches they love in the following
pages.
LESLIE TRAMMELL GRACIOUSLY agreed to be our Spring cover model, and she cer-
tainly looks a whole lot happier than Charlize, doesnt she? She and her husband Todd have
been Lake Travis residents for 13 years. They have two children who enjoy participating in
sporting events sponsored by the Lake Travis Youth Association and supporting the Lake
Travis Cavs! Leslie volunteers for Mobile Loaves and Fishes and at her childrens school in
a creative writing program. She enjoys riding her horse, Cody, photography, reading, travel-
ing, exercising and Bible study through her church. She love spending summers with her
family at the lake and also at their condo in Pagosa Spring, Colorado.
THE SPRING 2012 OPENING of the Lakeway Regional Medical Clinic owes a great
deal to the visionary efforts of Dr. Sam DeMaio, who is also the driving force behind the
physician-driven management of the hospital. Dr. DeMaios accomplishments include Board
Certifications in Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology and over
20 years as a practicing cardiologist. He is a Diplomat for the National Board of Medical
Examiners, American Board of Internal Medicine & ABIMCardiovascular Disease. Dr.
DeMaio holds several certifications and memberships with esteemed cardiology
institutes and has written numerous research papers, chapters & Abstracts. He has
also served on the medical advisory boards of several well-known medical institu-
tions. He has invented three coronary devices and holds one US Patent for an angi-
ography balloon catheter. He will be practicing with his group, StarState Heart, at
the Lakeway Regional Medical Center.
In addition to supporting her husband, Amy DeMaio is a Realtor

with Manicom
Real Estate and also owns Radiant Faces, a skin care company that specializes in
physician-delivered injectables of clinical products such as Botox, Restylane
and Juvederm.
It is not surprising that both Sam and Amy choose Rolex, a brand with its own
history of accomplishments and one that is synonymous with classic simplicity and
elegance. In its marketing campaigns, Rolex emphasizes, At the heart of every time-
piece we make is the Rolex movement and, within the elaborate construction of the
movement, the careful positioning of the oscillator is the heartbeat of every Rolex,
the moment a Rolex truly comes to life. A fascinating metaphor for a watch worn
by a cardiologist.
Watch Out!
STORY BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN AND GETTY IMAGES
With serious money at stake,
luxury watchmakers lavish
millions on celebrities to
promote their brands.
Cover model, Leslie Trammell wears an ELLE
watch from HARRISON JEWELERS. It has
a big face, just like the Dior watch Theron
wears in the photo above.
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Austin, TX 78738
Signature Bridal Salon is central Texas premiere full
service bridal experience offering the latest in designer
wedding gowns, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses,
formal social wear and bridal accessories. Serving Lakeway,
Bee Cave, Westlake, Spicewood and Marble Falls.
Austins Exclusive Retailer
for Simone Carvalli Bridal
and Bridesmaids
Your dream. My passion.
Karen Michalik
Previews International Home Specialist
Certied Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
512-917-0361
Kmichalik@cbunited.com
REALTOR
THE FI RST STEP TO
FI NDI NG THE RI GHT
HOME I S FI NDI NG
THE RI GHT REALTOR.
cbunited.com/Karen.Michalik
NEW YEAR, NEW U
512. 266. 4010
OAK GROVE PLAZA
1603 RR 620 North, #300
Lakeway, TX 78734
www.salonuaustin.com
$28 shampoo/blowdry
ThursSat from 38pm
Free haircut with
any color service or
20% off haircut.
New clients only.
back: Ashley Bittles, Fran Massey, Angie Flock, Scott Finley, Erica Finley, Molly Rundle, Phyllis Teal, Vanessa Baker, Brittany
Antonishek; middle: Tiffany Williams, Lacy King, Krislyn Christian, Jill Bohnen; front: Karin Blanchette, Jourdan Fiala
30 Waterways | Spring 2012
Keeping time...5, 6, 7, 8
BETH TERWILLEGER, originally from Santa Cruz, CA, joined Ballet
Austin II in the fall of 2003 and joined the company in 2005. Prior to
joining Ballet Austin II, Ms. Terwilleger studied ballet with The Studio
School of Classical Ballet, Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre, Richmond Ballet,
The Rock School, and Miami City Ballet. She has enjoyed dancing roles in
Concerto Barocco, Episodes, and Serenade by George Balanchine, Truth
& Beauty: The Bach Project, Hamlet, Touch, silence within silence, Songs
of Innuendo, and Red Roses by Stephen Mills along with other works by
Twyla Tharp, KT Nelson, Michelle Thompson, Reginald Harris, Dominic
Walsh, Gina Patterson, Thaddeus Davis, Viktor Kabaniaev and Thang Dao.
This is Ms. Terwillegers seventh year with the company.
MICHELLE THOMPSON, originally from San Francisco, trained
at San Francisco Ballet for nine years. During her two years with Ballet
Austin II she studied with Truman Finney and was privileged to perform
in Ulysses Doves Vespers. Now in her ninth season with Ballet Austin, Ms.
Thompson has loved dancing in works by Mills (silence within silence, Red
Roses, Light / The Holocaust & Humanity Project, Angel of My Nature,
Kai), Patterson (Free to Fly, Red Line, Liquid Eyes), Twyla Tharp, and
Balanchine. She was thrilled to perform the role of Kitri in Don Quixote
and Sugar Plum in The Nutcracker.
INTERVIEW BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
PHOTOS BY ANDY SAMS
For a dancer, an exquisite sense of timing is critical to a flawless performance.
MICHELLE THOMPSON: Time is essential to the way you move with the
music. Understanding the time between steps and between musical chords
is extremely important to dancing musically. The amount of time you hold a
particular shape of the body can change the energy of a piece and ultimately
change what the audience sees.
MICHELLE THOMPSON: Practice makes perfect, and practice takes time!
Michelle has a silver Bulova that was given to her this past Christmas by her hus-
band. With a little one in tow, she finds it more convenient to look at her watch
than to pull out her cell phone when she wants to check the timeespecially
when she wants to know if its close to nap time! The gold watch is a Cartier that
belonged to Michelles mother. Unfortunately, an illness has made it impossible
for Michelles mother to read and so she gave the watch to Michelle who wears it
with pride, remembering her mom and her strength every day.
BETH TERWILLEGER: Dancers are trained at a very young age to be very
responsible and punctual. Punctuality in the dancer world, though, doesnt
mean getting to work on time. It means being ready to work on time. The means
getting to work early in order to get changed, to warm up and to be awake
enough to get your body to respond to your brain. This takes time, every day.
Beths watch was given to her by her boyfriend Todd for Christmas. He remem-
bered her love for big-faced watches which she finds delightfully happy and
silly and he surprised her with the purchase of this Fossil. Wearing it makes
her feel a bit cartoonish, and she loves itand Todds thoughtfulness! His pres-
ence made up for the fact that Christmas 2011 was her first separated from her
brothers and parents.
Beth Terwilleger and Michelle Thompson
512-266-8100
1603 Ranch Road 620 N., Lakeway, TX 78734
www. 620chiropractic. com
Dr. Ryan Smith
Gonstead Practitioner,
Palmer Graduate
Gentle Specific Chiropractic
Family Care Sports Rehab
Auto/Work Injury
Most major insurance, ex, personal injury
and Medicare accepted. Aordable cash plans.
Located in the Oak Grove Plaza near
Faradays Kitchen Store and Body Wise Gym.
Also oering acupuncture, neuromuscular massage,
naturopathic care, nutrition and more
32 Waterways | Spring 2012
TIME BOMBTHE RACY JAEGER LECOULTRE Ruston
Vickers Jaeger Lecoultre AMVOX DBS Transponder has a movement of
280 pieces. The features of the watches chronograph, which measures and
records timecombining a stop watch within a display watch, are controlled
by the bezel itself. The watch has no buttons. When Ruston presses the top of
the bezel, it starts the chronograph. He can press it again to stop it, and when
he presses the bottom of the bezel, it resets everything back to 0. Bordered by
18 Karat rose gold with a rose gold clasp and leather band, it is quite simply
a beautiful watch.
But the really cool aspect of this watch, notes Ruston, is that it is paired
to my Aston Martin DBS. Yepyou got it. This watch is part of a smoking
set that includes the purchase of an Aston Martin. In fact, it is only available
through an Aston Martin dealership because it must be paired with the car.
Like the iPhone, the Jaeger Lecoultre DBS Transponder is sensitive to stat-
ic touch. One touch unlocks or locks the car. Another turns the lights on or
off. The engraving on the back of the watch honors the collaboration between Aston Martin and Jaeger Lecoultre and includes the distinctive Aston Martin
wings. Dont get me wrongRuston Vickers really loves his Jaeger Lecoultre watch. But he is passionate about his Aston Martin DBS. The car is identical to
the car Daniel Craig drove in the last two Bond movies, one of which was Quantum of Solace. Even the color, Quantum Silver, is the same.
Although he was born in Houston, Ruston Vickers family is originally from Austin. Ruston graduated from Texas Tech and founded an enterprise soft-
ware company, ITKO, dually based in Austin and Dallas. He recently sold the company but is staying on to assist the new company as it moves forward. As he
explains, Its a new fresh market, and its growing like crazy so its a lot of fun. I get to help large companies solve real problemsand thats exciting. We cre-
ated a market space as well, and its interesting to be able to drive that. That may be so, but the drive Ruston really loves is the one he gets when he pushes
the blue sapphire crystal key into his DBS and listens to the unmistakable sound of the V 12 firing to life.
JOHN PARSSINEN, A GRADUATE OF LAKE TRAVIS HIGH SCHOOL in 2003 and Ohio
Wesleyan University in 2007, now lives in New Yorker City where he works fulltime as a grant writer and
program developer for Westhab, the largest nonprofit provider of affordable housing and supportive servic-
es in Westchester County, NY. Each year more than 1,200 homeless or at-risk youth participate in Westhabs
youth program, and hundreds of families in underserved neighborhoods get help in their community cen-
ters. John is also a fulltime student at Hunter College where he is studying for a Master of Social Work.
Helping him manage this challenging schedule of work and study, his Mondaine

Official Swiss
Railways Watch keeps him where he needs to be at any given moment. Visiting Austin over the holidays, he
takes time to reconnect with an Austin treasure at the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trails.
RIGHT ON TIME, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS Cream for two minutes. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Bake for 50 minutes. For Chef Katy Parker, increments of time are just as critical as the cups and spoons
she uses to measure out the ingredients so important to her craft. All chefs wear watches because we
all have a bit of the control freak in us! she
explains. Katy wears a Klaus Kobec that
belonged to her mom, Susan. I dont like
a lot of bling. Im a clean-line girl, all the
way around.
Katy worked for Chef Bryan Caswell in
Houston before enrolling in The Culinary
Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. After
graduating, she got a taste of the Manhattan
scene, working at the Mercer Kitchen in Soho, a Jean George restaurant. She moved back to
Austin two years ago and launched her own business as a private chef. She had been talking to
Tony Curtis-Wellings who owns Faradays Kitchen Store, even before she arrived here, and she
is a regular among the 24 chefs that teach classes at Faradays on rotation. Originally, Katys
family came from Louisiana, and gumbo and other dishes from Louisiana cuisine are among
her specialties.
In addition to teaching at Faradays, Katy offers home cooking classes and small dinner
parties. But perhaps the biggest element of her business is preparing weekly meals. I fill a
great need for working families that want to have a home-cooked meal with their children
but generally get home too late to rally and then begin to cook dinner, Katy notes. She also
has several clients with special needs who have children that require gluten-free meals or
are lactose-intolerant. After agreeing upon a menu, Katys makes all purchases at the market
in the morning and then spends four to five hours cooking in the home. At the end of the
day, all meals are packed away and stored for the week, an investment that will make sure
that meals are served Right on Time! Find her page on Facebook under Chef Katy Parker.
We are committed to providing comfort & care at the
highest level of ethical standards with dedication to
honoring the wishes of our patients & families.
Hospice of the Hills is dedicated to providing quality
hospice care for the physical & medical needs of our
patients as well as for their emotional & spiritual needs.
Our team works together with each patient, their family
and the healthcare professional, ensuring each patient
is cared for like family. Contact us to see how we can
provide you or your loved one a quality, end-of-life
journey flled with peace and comfort.
p: 512.614.2851
e: info@hospiceofthehills.org
www.hospiceofthehills.org
11719 Bee Cave Road, Suite 100, Bee Cave, Texas 78738
COMPLETE LAWN
MAINTENANCE
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A
UNIQUE CONCEPT has been created by a group of real estate agents working to find a way to best serve the needs of their clients. Brought
together by Elaine Garner, the Masterminds Group includes agents in the Austin area who share market trends, statistics, information and,
above all, a desire to be as knowledgeable as possible to benefit both buyers and sellers.
This creative venture was established three and a half years ago, and the results have been beneficial to both the agents and their clients. Each agent
brings different experiences and perspective to the table, and the results have
been a win-win for all. A result of these monthly meetings has been a mutual
respect and consideration which has resulted in more successful transactions
between the represented brokerages.
In addition, all listings receive great in-depth exposure to a wider audience,
which have benefited sellers. Agents have been able to provide buyers with
insight to properties way beyond the standard information provided.
Extraordinary times call for extraordinary ideasand this is certainly one of
them!
Masterminds...What Makes
Them Tick?
STORY BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Time. Tracking its passage and its penalties is uppermost in the mind of any
good Realtor

worth his or her salt! Real estate and the buying and selling of
property can become a battlefield mined with time sensitive issues that can have
disastrous consequences if they are not carefully managed. Did your buyers for-
get to negotiate critical repairs during the option period? Too badtheyre toast!
A good Realtor

is a WATCHdog, mindfully attending to time sensitive issues

that can impact the welfare of the client. Title commitment deadlines, loan
approval deadlines, expiration of the option periodthese are events a good
agent charts and monitors for clients.
STORY BY MASTERMINDS
PHOTOS BY BRANDI NELLIS
11 Realtors, 8 Companies, 167 Years of
Experience . . . Working for You.
Gregg Klar, Keller Williams; Jodi Gregg, Jodi Gregg Property Group; Elaine Garner, Keller Williams; Kay DaSilva, Avalar Austin; Bertina Schreiber, Moreland Properties; Joni Langle, Bee Creek Realty;
Amber Hart, Keller Williams; Diana Thomas, Sothebys International Realty., Cyndi Cummings, Keller Williams; Ryan Rogers, Coldwell Banker; Not pictured, Sherry Ellenbogen, Realty Austin
Showing up on time for appointments is critical for all
agents. You wont find any White Rabbits in this group!
Ryan Rogers
Sherry Ellenbogen
Gregg Klar
Cyndi Cummings
Jodi Gregg
Diana Thomas
Bertina Schreiber
Elaine Garner
Kay DaSilva
Amber Hart
Joni Langle
COME MEET OUR STYLISTS!
IN THE LAKEWAY COMMONS
SHOPPING CENTER
900 RR 620 S, #A104
512.263.7611
www.spaatthelake.com
Let us help you love your hair!
Back: Zareen Jameel, Amanda Slaughter, Ashley Szulim-Sabean, Denise Gordon,
Ashley Walker; Front: Laura Gregson, Bobbi Frels, Rachel Hailey
(Not shown: Shannon Wilson, Marie Pierre Pappalardo)
Call me for more
information.
Bertina Schreiber
REALTOR, CNE
512.796.5740
bertina@moreland.com
805 Palos Verdes
4 Bdrm | 2 Bath
107 Carefree Circle
3 Bdrm | 2 Bath
easy 1-story living
with greenbelt views
36 Waterways | Spring 2012
T
HE SIGNIFICANT crowd at the grand opening of the brand new model
home recently completed by Partners in Building at The Canyons at Lake
Travis reflected new interest in the custom home market by the home-
buying public. This welcome interest in looking is encouraging, since buyers are
distilled from those who are looking.
Oversized lots with beautiful Hill Country views, a fast-track commute to Austin
and the developments extremely attractive property tax rate were among the incen-
tives of most interest to those who came to tour the model home.
The Good Life
at the Canyons
at Lake Travis
STORY BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN AND PARTNERS IN BUILDING
G
IRL SCOUT TROOP 1897, made up of fourth graders from Lakeway Elementary School, will host PROJECT RUNWAY at the
Austin Ridge Bible Church, 9300 Bee Cave Road. The show will feature spring fashions designed by the Girl Scouts and girls from
Austins Family Link program. The goal of the show is to raise awareness of Family Link and to provide a fun event to help build self-
esteem for Family Link girls. The fashions will be modeled by the girls, as well as by professional models. Karas Cookies, located in Lakeway,
will provide refreshments.
Family Link is a non-profit, licensed foster care and adoption agency that has found safe, loving foster and foster/adopt homes for hundreds
of children who have suffered from abuse or neglect in the past year. Unfortunately, Family Link has also had to turn away hundreds of other
children for lack of families. To find out more about Family Link and what they do, please visit www.familylinkkids.com.
In addition to Karas Cookies, participating sponsors include Adorn Home & Body, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Horse Culture and Thirty-One Bags.
Girl Scouts Host Project
Runway Fashion Show
March 2, 2012
7 8:30 p.m.
Austin Ridge Bible Church 9300 Bee Cave Road
Tickets: $5.00 in advance and at the door.
Media and Ticket Contact: Jennifer Richter, 805-294-9095,
Jenniferrichter@msn.com.
38 Waterways | Spring 2012
DISCOVERY!
The human potential movement, with its emphasis on self-exploration,
exploded across the U.S. in the 1970s and 1980s and led to the develop-
ment of large group life skills trainings. It was as a participant in such a
program in the mid-1990s that Lakeways David Dachner, President of
Amarado Oil Company, experienced revolutionary changes that reconfig-
ured the direction of his life. The program he attended owed its inspiration
to collaboration and partnership with group life skill training workshops
developed by Dr. Phil and Dr. Joe McGraw
in the mid-1980s. Their work laid the foun-
dation for what is now Discovery!, a three
part series of dynamic, interactive training
that expands self-awareness and offers both
processes to expose obstacles to growth and
tools to enhance successful living.
Davids commitment to Discovery!
Training led him to a twelve year affiliation
with the program, from a role as a volunteer
to a facilitator and, in July 2008, he and
Bob Posey, President of Gearench and a
fellow Discovery! enthusiast, joined forces
to become co-owners, co-directors and co-
lead facilitators of Discovery! Austin. As
Dachner explains, Our philosophy is quite
simpleto meet people where they are, no
matter what, and to help them discover
answers within themselves. To us, it really
is that simple. No matter your race, reli-
gion, outlook or belief system, Discovery! is
designed to enrich your life and to help you
become the best person that you can be.
Discovery! Austin has experienced
remarkable growth since beginning month-
ly training programs three and a half years ago. In a wealth of testimonials,
hundreds of Austinites, as well as individuals from seven other countries
and 37 other states, recount the impact Discovery! has had on their per-
sonal, professional and spiritual lives.
Discovery! Austin is a 501 3 non-profit organization and is run pri-
marily by alumni volunteers. It is located at 3001 RR 620 South, Suite 328,
Austin 78738. 512.276.8967 www.discovery-austin.org
FINLEYS
BARBER SHOP
Darren Peterson and Scott
Finley met shortly after hav-
ing moved to Austin in the
late 90s. Scott was an up-
and-coming hair stylist, and
Darren was a college student
studying Computer Science
and Business Management.
They struck up an immediate
friendship that has endured
for well over a decade, even
though their paths long ago
diverged from waiting tables
at a local Austin restaurant. Years later Scott and his wife opened Salon
U in Lakeway, and Darren was managing offshore developers in India for
Dell Computers, yet they still dreamed about building a business together.
Scott approached Darren with the idea of reinventing the ambiance of the
old-fashioned American barber shop that combines the best traditions
of barbering with fine product and serious service. Scott knew hair and
Darren knew business and retail, and both of them certainly new customer
service from their years in the restaurant industry. This was the opportu-
nity the two men were looking for. Their passion for personal grooming,
experience owning and operating salons, strong business acumen and a
focus on customer service were the perfect ingredients for their Finleys
Barber Shop concept.
They built Finleys
with an emphasis on
men, and on the ser-
vices and products that
men truly want, with
exceptional customer
service and attention to
detail. They built a con-
cept where the special
relationship between a
father and son can be
fostered while they spend
time together, enjoying a shave and a haircut, relaxing with a beverage
while watching the game. Every Sunday Finleys celebrates pride in these
relationships with Father-and-Sonday, offering a discount for family
members who come in for services together. As Darren notes, Guys have
come to appreciate the personal servicethe hot towels, the scalp massage,
the aromatherapy and the camaraderie. Its a true escape. Perfecting the
brand and ensuring that it remains clean and untarnished, offering the
authentic Finley experience, is a top priority as they expand the Finleys
brand in and outside of Austin. 512.394.8684 (Lakeway) 512.520.8326
(Westlake) www.finleysformen.com
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Thrives in Lake Travis
BUSINESS PROFILES BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Bob Posey
David Dachner
Scott Finley, Darren Peterson
tools for successful living
39 Spring 2012 | Waterways
AMANDA TATUM, REALTOR

& JULIE DICKEY,

REALTOR

: CAPITAL CITY SOTHEBYS

INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Realtors

Julie Dickey and Amanda Tatum are a mother-daughter team

that work with Capital City Sothebys International Realty at the Hill
Country Galleria location. Julie Dickey has been a top producing agent
for over 15 years, specializing in Luxury, Farm and Ranch and Equestrian
properties, first near Houston and now in Austin. Amanda Smitheal Tatum
graduated from St. Edwards University with a degree in marketing and
finance and has had several high-profile positions in sales and marketing
with GSD&M, Carter & Burgess, and in pharmaceutical sales with Pfizer
and Bausch & Lomb. She and her husband Brad have two little boys (ages
2 and 4), and when the babies arrived, Amanda reassessed her goals. Like
so many women, she wanted to be at home with her children, but she also
wanted to stay active professionally. Real Estate was a natural choice for
Amanda, since she and her family have been involved in commercial devel-
opment, residential acquisitions and farm & ranch sales her entire life. So,
with her boys both in pre-school, she offered to help her mother with mar-
keting, but Julie convinced Amanda to get her real estate license and join
her as a partner. It was a great decision for both of them! Real estate is a
rewarding profession, and it is very common for women to be successful
Realtors

, Amanda says.
The two are great friends, so working together has been enjoyable
and successful. Julie brings years of experience to the team, and Amanda
handles all the marketing, including the website and other advertising. And
Julie can be available to attend to last-minute client requests or meetings
when Amanda is tied up with the little boys.
Both Amanda and Julie feel that Sothebys is a great fit for their focus
since the brokerage has a clearly established, quality brand for luxury that
is internationally recognized. It is the go-to source for clients at the high-
est end looking for property, Amanda explains. She also appreciates the
fact that Sothebys has its own magazine with world-wide distribution and
markets its properties extensively online and in publications like the Wall
Street Journal.
There is a lot of hard work in real estate but it also offers great flexibil-
ity. Of all my career paths, this is definitely the most fun, and being partners
with my mom is a great bonus!
512.788.6604 www.LuxuryAustinProperty.com
RIATA HUNTING RANCHES
Lakeways Mike Gardner is a co-founder of Riata Hunting Ranches, a com-
pany that facilitates hunting trips in Texas, the western states, Canada,
Alaska and international destinations such as Africa, New Zealand,
Argentina, Asia, Russia and Europe. Riatas clients pursue wingshooting
destinations and hunt big game animals, including African lions, Alaskan
brown bear and mountain sheep at alpine elevations in the Rockies. Riata
hosts hard-core trophy hunters and corporations who need to entertain
customers, as well as families that want to introduce their children to the
inspiration of the great outdoors.
Accor di ng t o
Gardner, the business
environment in the
industry is definitely
picking up steam
as the worldwide
economic downturn
loosens its grip and
corporate sports-
men flock to cash in
on some of the best
hunting rates and
values seen in years.
The company has
experienced an uptick
as corporations begin
entertaining custom-
ers again. Its about
time, notes Mike Gardner, Its been a challenging four years.
Riata saw a 92% increase in bookings from 2010. In 2010-2011, Riata
facilitated over 130 Whitetail Buck guided package hunts and over 60 Mule
Deer guided package hunts on several million acres. Riata has produced
more free ranging bucks, scoring over 150 BC gross, for its clients than any
other outfitter in Texas. In addition, Riata facilitated over 200 clients for
other species of big game and wingshooting throughout North America and
eleven other countries abroad. Riatas team of professional hunters and
consultants has over 100 years combined experience in commercial hunt-
ing. Our niche in the market is listening to our clients goals, budgets and
dreamsand fulfilling those promises, says Gardner. Based in Texas, Riata
operates its own Texas outfitting service and, more importantly, serves as a
booking agent for the very best Texas ranches.
Many companies choose to build lasting customer relationships
around the campfire, listening to the coyotes howl after a good meal and
a long days successful hunt. Mark Greco, President of Austin-based 360
Mortgage Group, comments on the benefits such trips provide for bonding
with customers: You cant beat it. The customer golf outing is a five hour
deal, and a lunch appointment is even shorter. Out here there are no cell
phone distractions or laptops. Its ideal.
Local Texas landowners are reaping rewards from increased spending
from Texas sportsmen. Hunting revenues supplement cattle, farming and
mineral interests. As Gonzales county ranch owner Ricky Lester notes,
Riata brings us clients from all over the country, and the hunting revenue
helps offset our ranch expenses.
Riatas charitable giving has included donating trips to events such as
the Lake Travis Youth Foundation, veterans hunts and childrens hunts.
Riata has also provided thousands of pounds of wild game to Hunters for
the Hungry.
512.261.2400 www.riatahuntingranches.com
Mike Gardner
Julie Dickey, Amanda Tatum
40 Waterways | Spring 2012
W
ORK ON THE Dell Childrens Gala 2012 began imme-
diately after the lights went out for the 2011 Gala. It takes
a full year to orchestrate what may be Austins largest
gala, attended each year by approximately 1,000 guests. Kay and Eric
Moreland chaired this years event, assisted by 70 committee mem-
bers. It is a challenging undertaking, requiring an unwavering com-
mitment of time and energy.
The proceeds from the Gala benefit the Dell Childrens Medical
Center of Central Texas which opened its doors in 2007. Although
growth was anticipated from the beginning, the increase in the num-
bers of children served has been staggering at 67%. Dell Childrens has
actively recruited a world class team of specialists to insure world class
service to the 46 Central Texan counties it serves.
Paul and April Dodd, pictured to the left, shared their experience
with the audience about the life-altering care their son received from
Dell Childrens.
The Art of Healing
DELL CHILDRENS GALA 2012
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Lee Cook, Janice Cartwright
Paul and April Dodd
Hub and Kathryn Scarborough Bechtol
Mark, Sophie and Jocelyn Johnson
Rick and Gail Swisher
Paul and Deborah Ferrand Stephen and Molly Pont
Chairs and Presenters, Kay and Eric Moreland
with daughters Georgia and Gracie
41 Spring 2012 | Waterways
Jaki and Rick Davis, Grace Langlee, Louis and Marci Henna
Cody and Dana Danaher
Elisa and Mark Dennis
Laurie and Chris Wheeler
Travis and Sherri West
Jena and Ross Ehlinger, Richard Kriese, Molly Sherman
Missy Wood, Tracey Bury, Angie McDonald
Liz Fitzgerald, Kim Kozmetsky, Rebecca Kemp
Judy Waxman, Carl and Suzanne Shepherd Gary and Hollie Sanchez, Emily and Ryan Therrell
Christine Messina, Danika Boyle Amy Biegel, Dana DeLorenzo
Patricia and Terry Mitchell, Presenting Sponsor Emily Moreland, Ben Moreland
42 Waterways | Spring 2012
How Well do You Know
Your Community?
STORY BY STEVE ZBRANEK
E
LEVEN YEARS ago our
family moved to the Lake
Travis community. Like
most newcomers, we familiarized
ourselves with the schools, shopping,
medical facilities and entertainment
options and, generally, with just
how to get around. Loaded with this
preliminary knowledge of the area,
we settled in and began work in our
chosen career. Five years later, it
seemed like we were pretty familiar
with our new community and what
it had to offer businesses and fami-
lies. However, from past experience
I knew that we were only brushing the surface.
We moved here from San Antonio. While there I was selected to par-
ticipate in the highly publicized Leadership San Antonio program. This
is a Chamber of Commerce sponsored program designed to take com-
munity leaders from various vocations and expose them to aspects of the
community that are unfamiliar to them. Class members agree to attend one
day per month for nine months. Each day is themed around a segment
of the community, such as medical, government affairs, retail and eco-
nomic development, education, etc. At the conclusion of the program I had
learned more about the city and how it really operates than I think I could
have learned any other way. The next year I served on the steering commit-
tee of the program, and the following year I was appointed by the Mayor to
chair the Leadership San Antonio program.
Three years ago we introduced the Leadership program to the Lake
Travis Chamber of Commerce and its members. Participants agree to
attend a session one day per month for 8 consecutive months starting in
September. Like other Chamber leadership programs, community lead-
ers come together once a month and participate in activities designed to
broaden their knowledge on the subject for that day. The themed days
of Leadership Lake Travis are Economic Development, Education, Law
Enforcement, Nonprofit, Tourism, Real Estate and the recently added cat-
egory, Medical Services. The program begins with a retreat to introduce
the class members to each other and to begin planning the seven months
ahead. When people hear the word leadership they often think that this
program was designed to teach leadership skills. On the contrary, we invite
people who are already leaders in the community to broaden their knowl-
edge of how things work in the place where they work and live. Our first
three classes have included Realtors

, school administrators, physicians,

business owners, police department leaders, firefighters, nonprofit manag-
ers, bankers, hospitality managers, retail managers, a city manager, home
builders and many others. Examples of educational events that these lead-
ers experienced were: touring the inside of Mansfield Dam, touring the 911
Call and Emergency Center, learning about Lake Travis from speakers on a
boat, one-on-one sessions with elected officials, playing Are You Smarter
than a 5th Grader at the Lake Travis Elementary School and aerial tours of
the Lake Travis area by local pilots.
We ask the same questions at the conclusion of each Leadership Lake
Travis Class. Did we waste your time and will you recommend this program
to your friends and peers? So far, the answers have been 100% in favor of
the time the attendees spent away from work. It is also typical that graduates
tell us they have made friends for life. We are lucky to have this program tar-
geted specifically for our community and lifestyle.
The Chamber is currently accepting applications
for Leadership Lake Travis Class # 004. The selec-
tion of participants will be announced in August
for the September program. If you want to be more
effective at your job and experience a short cut to
understanding this amazing place, I encourage you
to apply. The class is limited each year to 35 partici-
pants, and early applicants are considered first. For
more information and to apply for the Lake Travis
Chamber of Commerce Leadership Lake Travis
program visit www.LeadershipLakeTravis.com or
contact the Chamber at 263-5833.
Steve Zbranek is a partner in Zbranek & Holt
Custom Homes, Past Chairman
of the Leadership Lake Travis
Program and Past Chairman
of the Board of Directors for
the Lake Travis Chamber of
Commerce.
43 Spring 2012 | Waterways
B
RENT AND KIM Charlet of Adorn Home & Body,
Michele Wood of Wink and Deborah Sheldon of Strandz
Salon did the major lifting to organize a fun block party
and fashion show at Lakeway Center II. A great crowd turned out
to enjoy the show and complimentary libations and barbeque. The
over-sized Champs Elysee style sidewalks provided a perfect
place to mingle. Merchants raffled off an enormous basket full of all
sorts of goodies...claimed by winner, Charlene Grossman.
Lakeway Center II
Block Party + Fashion Show
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Michele Wood, Deborah Sheldon,
Mia Wood, Charlene Grossman,
Abriana Grossman
April Durr from Wink
passes out raffle tickets
Jacie Melancon
Brent Charlet
Charlene Grossman, Michelle Wood, Abriana Grossman
Harrison Jewelers Leslie Trammell
DeAnne Morgan,
Kristi Smith
Jacie Melancon, Kim Charlet Johnny and Deborah Sheldon
44 Waterways | Spring 2012
The Ruins of Us
Q & A WITH AUTHOR, KEIJA PARSSINEN
L
AKE TRAVIS HIGH SCHOOL graduate Keija Parssinens stunning debut novel offers the intricate,
emotionally resonant story of an American expatriate who discovers that her husband, a Saudi billionaire,
has taken a second bridean emotionally turbulent revelation that blinds them both to their teenaged
sons ominous first steps down the road of radicalization. Readers of The Septembers of Shiraz will be captivated by
Parssinens story of love and betrayal, fundamentalism, family and country in the Middle East. Anthony Swofford,
author of Jarhead, hails Parssinens characters as richly conceived, and her evocative petrol universe of wealth,
privilege, and intrigue is unforgettable, characterizing The Ruins of Us as having powerful storytelling that is
refreshing and entertaining.
JERRY MOORE taught English IV and English IV Advanced
Placement at Lake Travis High School for 15 years. He was the
lead Advanced Placement teacher for the department and the
lead teacher at the English IV level. His students AP scores were
generally excellent and often they were the highest on the cam-
pus. Jerrys expectations were demanding but his acerbic wit,
west Texas drawl and exquisite insights into all things literary
established a reputation among his students at Lake Travis High
School that was legendary. Below are questions he prepared for
former student Keija Parssinen about The Ruins of Us.
JM: Why did the subject matter of the novel attract you?
KP: Ive been fascinated byone might even say obsessed withSaudi Arabia
since my family left the Kingdom in 1992. To my mind, its a place of great drama
the desert landscape, the extreme religiosity, the absolute monarchy, the cosseting
away of women, the huge oil wealth. We left when I was still a child, and I always
felt my experience with the place to be incomplete. By writing a book set there,
I was able to delve deeply into research about the societal and political make-up
of Saudi Arabia, and it was both gratifying and terrifying to see the country of my
childhood through a cold adult lens.
JM: Are the characters creative inventions, composites, or figures based on real
people?
KP: Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. In all
seriousness, I believe writers draw on real-life experiences to enrich and authenti-
cate the work. But I like to think that it is the emotional education that we receive
through our experiences that bleeds into the work, and which we use to imbue
characters with their psychological make-up, rather than the direct pilfering of
characters from our lived lives.
JM: What are some of your fondest memories of growing up in Saudi Arabia?
KP: I loved going to the beach. There was a grand old dune that rose like a wall next
to the sea, and my friends and I would climb it, laboriously, and then tumble down
the dune straight into the salty water. I also remember a field trip to the souq in
Qatif, where a baker pulled fresh loaves of bread straight from a coal oven and gave
them to us to try. I think I was in 3rd or 4th grade.
JM: What would you like the reader to understand about Saudi Arabia and the
Muslim world?
KP: I would like readers to understand how meaningful family is in Saudi Arabia
and that faith, when not perverted by violence, can be beautiful. Additionally, I
wanted readers to see highly personal cross-cultural relationships between Saudis
and Americans, i.e. Rosalie and Abdullahs marriage, and Dan and Abdullahs
friendship. Though both relationships become fraught over the course of the
book, they are also predicated on love. I would also like readers to understand
that Saudi Arabia and Islam are not monolithic entities comprised of a group of
automatons who all think and act in the same way. Saudi society is multi-fac-
etedthere are rich and poor, Shiite and Sunni, the fervently religious and the
indifferent practitioners of faith, the traditional and the progressive. Too often,
what we see portrayed in the media is one-dimensional: there is so much more
to Saudi Arabia than whether or not women can drive, or the veil, though those
are, of course, distinguishing features of the place that continue to captivate the
Western mind.
45 Spring 2012 | Waterways
JM: Most, if not all, of the characters seem to be caught in tugs of war. What
are the warring forces in Rosalie, Abdullah, Faisal, and Dan?
KP: Rosalie is caught between her love of Abdullah and her anger at his
betrayal; Abdullah is caught between his appetitesfor money, power,
womenand his better instincts; Faisal longs for authentic connection with
his family, and finding none, he turns on them in his disappointment and
loneliness. Mariam is a budding feminist and wants to be a superstar jour-
nalist, and she must battle the societal forces that exist to contain and direct
her fiery ambition. And Dan is struggling against depression and bitterness,
wanting to overcome both but often self-indulgently yielding to those forces
instead.
JM: The authors voice is powerful throughout the novel as it probes and
comments on characters and events. What do you see as the role of that
authors voice?
KP: Well, you know all writers have a God complex. The omnipotence of
the act is intoxicating! I actually think a good writer should be a subtle pres-
ence on the page, commenting on but not judging a characters decisions and
actions. Usually, the fallout from bad decisions will elicit sympathy or judg-
ment in the reader, but the writer should refrain from force-feed that feeling
to the audience. I agree with Joseph Conrad, who says that A novelist who
would think himself of a superior essence to other men would miss the first
condition of his calling...I would not have him impatient with their small fail-
ings and scornful of their errorsI would wish him to look with a large for-
giveness at mens ideas and prejudices, which are by no means the outcome
of malevolence, but depend on their education, their social status, even their
professions...I would wish him to enlarge his sympathies by patient and lov-
ing observation. First and foremost, a writer must be honest, but she must
also be empathetic, else the writing will be preachy and self-satisfied.
To learn more about Keija and The Ruins of Us, or to buy the book, visit
www.keijaparssinen.com
L
OCAL WRITERS and bloggers, Wendi Aarons and Jennifer
Sutton were selected by the national production company,
Listen to Your Mother Show, LLC to produce and direct a
second annual performance on Mothers Day. The event will feature
live readings on the beauty and the beast of motherhood and will cel-
ebrate barely-rested mothers on this special occasion. Born of the cre-
ative work of mothers who publish online, each production is directed,
produced and performed by local communities, for local communities,
with a minimum of 10% of the ticket proceeds benefitting a local non-
profit. Beginning with one show in Madison, Wisconsin in 2010, five
different cities, including Austin, hosted shows in 2011, giving birth to
a national Mothers Day movement. Austin was one of only 10 locations
selected this year from a pool of interested cities.
Austinite Wendi Aarons popular humor blog wendiaarons.com
was just named Editors Choice as the Funniest Blog by Parents
Magazine. Wendi also writes at www.themouthyhousewives.com.
Jennifer is deeply involved with Austin songwriters and also serves as a
spokeswoman for Purina Cat Chow.
Listen to Your Mother has announced that BlogHer, Inc. will con-
tinue National Media Sponsorship for 2012. BlogHer is the largest
community of women who blog, boasts 25+ million unique visitors per
month and hosts the worlds largest conference for women in social
media, BlogHer.com/about.
2012 Listen to Your Mother
Sunday, April 29th
At&T Executive Education Conference Center Theater
on the UT campus
For more information visit www.listentoyourmothershow
Listen to Your
Mother 2012
Keija discusses her book
with a WCGL member.
Book People hosted a
reading for Keija Parssinen.
The Womens Club of Greater Lakeway
invited Keija Parssinen to speak to members
at their January meeting. Keija Parssinen;
Nancy Clayton, 1st Vice President; Cathie
Parssinen; Maryleeann Bryan, President
46 Waterways | Spring 2012
Iconic Austin by Heather Meyer
STORY BY CATHIE PARSSINEN | PHOTOS BY HEATHER MEYER
L
AKEWAY RESIDENT Heather Meyer is an award winning photographic artist who
was born in Austin and has lived most of her life here. Her passion for photography
dates from her introduction to a 35mm in high school. She has a unique vision of our
world as she interprets it through her lens, a way of taking a plain picture and making it speak to
you, creating art from a photograph. She takes photographs of Iconic Austin, capturing scenes,
pieces and parts of what she calls funkified
Austin.
She has shown her work at various locations
throughout the Austin area, including the Hyde
Park Bar & Grill where her Art Party will be
held on February 15 from 5-7 pm.
Heathers photographs will also be on dis-
play from January 18 thru March 18 at the
Austin Java on 12th and Lamar at 1206 Parkway. Her photographs there are on several different medi-
ums, large canvas prints, framed prints, loose matted photographs, and photographic greeting cards.
The Austin Java City Hall location will also have some of her loose matted photographs and photo-
graphic greeting cards for purchase.
Her Iconic Austin photographic greeting cards can also be purchased at the Storyville store in SoCo
as well as at Adorn Home and Body in Lakeway.
Check out her work on her website www.momentaryglimpses.com. Photographs may also be pur-
chased through her website.
47 Spring 2012 | Waterways
S
UPPORTERS welcomed the new year at a TexARTS
Gala at the Hills Country Club on December 31 and
celebrated the accomplishments of 2011. Dont for-
get to visit www.tex-arts.org for the latest information on these
upcoming productions.
Midlife, The Crisis Musical
February 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 at 7:30 pm
February 19, 26 at 2 pm
February 26 at 7 pm
Alice in Wonderland (Youth Production)
March 24 and 25 at 2 pm and 6 pm
High School Musical (Youth Production)
April 14 and 15 at 6 pm
The Sleeping Beauty (Youth Ballet Theatre Production)
May 5 at 6pm and May 6 at 2 pm
TexARTS
STORY AND PHOTOS
BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Sanjeev Kumar, Jonathan Aldaco, Courtney and Donna Kumar
Keenah Armitage, Lei McCormick, Darren Gibson, Annette Brown
Cindy and Don Kotrady
Ted and Carla Ent
Glenn Ballard, Patsy Brister
Fred Newton, Nancy Nichols
Shane, Kaitlin, Shannon
and Gracee Street
Sharon and Conrad January
Tiffany Todd, Karla Ent, Amy Dolce Kam and James Morris
John and Margaret Herman, Lana and Dennis Brown
Ben and Dee Ann Farrell, Carlene and David Cristiani
Michael Doherty, Robert Armitage,
TexARTS Producing Artistic Director
Ryan, Meg, Tim and
Kaleigh Connors
A
RE YOU tired of hearing about the Sing Alongs? Well, get over it!...because they
gave yet another joyful interpretation of the meaning of the holidays while collecting
donated toys for Green Santa! Perhaps they didnt hang the moon, but they did hang
a Christmas stocking of music that was both holy and boisterous, capturing the reaf-
firming traditions of Christmas and some wicked spoofs as well Monsters Holiday!)...
sure evidence that the Sing Along sense of humor is divinely inspired!
Dont miss the Sing Along Spring Show...Rogers & Hammerstein! Dinner Shows
are scheduled for April 19, 20 and 21, beginning at 6:30 pm. Contact the Lakeway
Activity Center for information about tickets.
SING ALONG PRESENTS
Giving...The Spirit of
Christmas
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CATHIE PARSSINEN
Mike Hahn, Oh Holy Night
Karen Decker
Linda Swan as The Bell That Couldnt
Jingle, sung by Lana Brown
Ken DeBower, Jerry Kietpas Monsters Holiday Judy Walker, Pat Hydanus, Kathy
Wilson, Ernie Clay Mr. Santa
Master of Ceremonies Will Smith
congratulates Producer/Director
Gigi McKeever
49 Spring 2012 | Waterways
Julianne DeBower, Barbara Helmueller, Joann Anderson, Harry Kilman
Carols by Committee
John Madden Do You Hear What I Hear?
Jim Sommer Lakeway Christmas Blues
Karen Knaus, Donna Ferrie, Pat Smith Jingle Bell Rock.
Kane Pierce, Diana Angelo Mary, Did You Know?
Martha Kubala, Perry Smith, Mary Ann Funk, Ed Metcalf, Glenda
Foreman Carols By Committee
Ken DeBower, Jerry Hietpas, Rick Wilsey, Nick Renneker Monsters Holiday