ARTS + CULTURE
ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL'S RAY BENSON ON AUSTIN REMAINING THE HOME OF LIVE MUSIC
LIFE + CULTURE
TEXAS ROOTS, BIG DREAMS: HOW RODEO AUSTIN IS INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
HOPE & HOME: INSIDE COMMUNITY FIRST! VILLAGE'S TRANSFORMATIVE APPROACH TO HOMELESSNESS
MARCH 2025
March is one of the busiest months to visit our fine city. We're featuring a number of the draws in this issue.
We start by interviewing the legendary Ray Benson, whose Annual Birthday Bash is the unofficial kickoff to the SXSW Music Festival.
Then we highlight one of the hundreds of children set to compete at Rodeo Austin, which also features professional rodeo competitions, a star-studded concert series with acts like Robert Earl Keen and Dashboard Confessionals, and a carnival that attracts families and visitors from across the region.
This issue focuses on "home," which we also address literally with an article offering tips on arming your home during our infamous allergy season and one about how the nonprofit Community First! Village is addressing homelessness.
Lastly, for those wanting to get out of town, perhaps for spring break, take your pick of six tried-and-true day trips just a drive away. Caverns are a popular one. I'd passed by them so many times on family road trips and finally arranged to take my son to Natural Bridge Caverns a couple of years ago. So many fun choices near Austin!
LISA
OGLE, EDITOR @ATXCITYLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Zack Fogelman | zack.fogelman@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Juan Martinez | juan.martinez@citylifestyle.com
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lisa Ogle | lisa.ogle@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Julie Royce | julie.royce@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Leslie Nelson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Julie Royce, Stacy Berg, Willie Cochran, Austin Museum of Pop Culture
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Teakeasy, an Austin-based, Black-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned luxury tea brand, offers ethically sourced, premium teas from around the world. With a focus on quality and connection, Teakeasy creates a relaxing and inspired experience for tea lovers. The curated selection reflects a passion for excellence and Austin’s vibrant culture. Explore the offerings at teakeasytea.com and join a community that celebrates tea, creativity and diversity.
The Center for Healing and Regenerative Medicine (CHARM) has been honored as the top Pain and Physical Therapy Clinic by the Best of West Austin, sponsored by the West Austin Chamber of Commerce. Specializing in nonsurgical solutions, CHARM focuses on relieving pain, promoting tissue repair and restoring function for individuals with musculoskeletal pain, orthopedic injuries and degenerative joint conditions.
House Wine has moved to its new location at 1711 S. First St. Guests can enjoy the same cozy atmosphere and world-class wine collection in a larger, more welcoming space designed for an elevated experience. Explore an expanded selection of wines, take part in weekly interactive wine classes, indulge in daily tastings and soak up the ambiance with live music five nights a week. It’s the House Wine you love, now better than ever! Scan to read more
Community First! Village provides housing and, more importantly, a community
Community First! Village in East Austin is redefining how cities address homelessness with a sustainable and compassionate model that prioritizes both housing and community support.
"I love this place. It's the first place I really called home," said resident Blair Racine, who moved to the village in 2018 after years of homelessness. "My home life when I was younger wasn't good. After bouncing around from Minnesota to Florida, I finally ended up in Austin in 2013 and was living on the streets. I found my way to the village by the grace of God."
Dubbed the "mayor" of Community First! Village, the 70-yearold with his long white beard, is known for his warm greetings and positive spirit.
"I like to call the village a petri dish of people," Racine said. "There are all kinds of people who make up the community. It's here that we're given a chance to help our neighbors and lift each other up."
The village is operated by the nonprofit Mobile Loaves & Fishes, which Alan Graham founded in 1998, and emphasizes the importance of community in addressing homelessness.
"The vision behind the village is rooted in the belief that housing alone is not enough, Graham said, echoing Racine’s sentiments. “Having a community is essential to healing and growth."
Established in 2015, the 51-acre development offers affordable, permanent housing in the form of tiny homes, RVs and canvas cottages. Today, the village is home to approximately 450 formerly homeless individuals, supported by a network of volunteers and staff. With phase one almost at capacity, the village is expanding into phase two to accommodate up to 1,500 residents.
The village helps residents rebuild their lives with amenities such as a medical clinic, an organic garden, a market, art studios and a theater. Many of these facilities hire residents, helping them establish a job history and providing a steady source of income to cover rent, food and clothing.
"Alan created an opportunity for residents to earn what he calls dignified income," Racine said. "We can give tours or work
Opposite Left Top: Aerial view of Community First! Village at sunset. Image courtesy of Mobile Loaves & Fishes.
Opposite Left Bottom: A Community First! resident working in one of the greenhouses. Image courtesy of Mobile Loaves & Fishes.
Opposite Right Top: Resident Blair Racine with a neighbor. Image courtesy of Mobile Loaves & Fishes.
Opposite RIght Bottom: Founder and CEO Alan Graham with his wife, Tricia. Image courtesy of Mobile Loaves & Fishes.
LIFT
“IT'S HERE THAT WE'RE GIVEN A
in the gardens, and we're paid at least $15 an hour. But if something happens and you wake up and you just don't have it in you to go to work that day, the staff always understands. There is no judgment from them."
Graham now lives in the village full-time with his wife, Tricia, so they can devote all their energy to building the organization. He explained the economic impact, noting that homelessness costs Austin around $50,000 annually per individual in public resources. By offering housing
and services, the nonprofit alleviates the strain on emergency services, hospitals, and the justice system.
The project's success has garnered national attention, with 46 cities replicating the model. Urban leaders and organizations from across the U.S. have visited the village to learn from its approach. Other Texas cities, including San Antonio and Dallas, are exploring similar tiny-home developments inspired by the initiative.
"We say that homelessness exists at the intersection of many broken systems and layers of trauma," Graham said. "The community is transforming lives by restoring relationships and creating a sense of belonging."
For more information, visit Community First! Village’s website: mlf.org/community-first/
ARTICLE BY LESLIE NELSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG AND AUSTIN MUSEUM OF POP CULTURE
With South by Southwest on my mind, I turn into a gravel driveway 10 miles east of downtown Austin. I’m greeted by four longhorn steer, grazing near a converted red barn. Once a horse stable, the barn has been transformed into a recording studio, meeting space and repository of decades of music memorabilia. Among the treasures inside is a priceless recording board once used by Elvis Presley.
As I enter, I’m met with a warm smile and a firm handshake from a true Austin music scene giant — both literally and figuratively. At 6-foot-6, Ray Benson is the founder and leader of the Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel. For more than five decades, he has been a cornerstone of Austin’s music culture.
With over 25 albums, nine Grammy Awards, an induction into the Austin Music Hall of Fame, a Texas Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award and the distinction of being named the official Texas State Musician by the Texas Commission of the Arts in 2004, Benson played a key role in helping Austin become the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Few have done as much to preserve and champion live music in Austin.
After exchanging pleasantries, comparing stories about recent golf trips to Scotland and touring the
MUSIC HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE soul OF THIS CITY. IT BRINGS PEOPLE together, BRIDGES DIVIDES, AND CREATES A SENSE OF COMMUNITY.
studio, we step into Ray’s office to discuss the origins of Austin’s music culture, his perspective on its future and how he is leading the charge to keep music accessible for artists in the capital city in the lead-up to SXSW.
ATX City Lifestyle: Austin is famously known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” How did you see that identity take shape when you moved here in the early 1970s?
Benson: Willie (Nelson) asked me to come down here in 1970, and when I did, Austin was like no other place. It was this wild intersection of hippies, rednecks and artists. You could feel the energy — the creativity was electric. Cheap rent helped a lot, and there were plenty of places to play, from Texas dance halls to rock clubs. Willie had already established himself here, and the Armadillo World Headquarters was just starting to take off. It was a place where genres and cultures collided, and everyone could find something they loved.
Asleep at the Wheel was unique because we could play rock joints and country dance halls, bridging different audiences. That’s what made Austin special — it embraced diversity in music, and we were lucky to be part of that.
ATX City Lifestyle: How has Austin’s music scene evolved since then?
Benson: It’s changed in ways both good and bad. Back then, rent was cheap, and you didn’t need much to get by. That gave musicians the freedom to experiment and grow. Now, the city’s gotten so expensive that it’s hard for young musicians to make a living here.
TEXAS DANCE HALLS ARE iconic. UNFORTUNATELY, WE’RE LOSING THEM DUE TO RISING REAL ESTATE COSTS AND URBAN SPRAWL. PRESERVING THESE SPACES IS VITAL BECAUSE THEY’RE MORE THAN VENUES; they’re cultural landmarks.
But Austin’s spirit remains. It’s still a place where people care deeply about the arts. What’s different is the infrastructure. We’ve lost a lot of small venues and affordable housing. It’s tough, but the community is stepping up. Organizations like HAAM and the Texas Dance Hall Preservation Society are trying to keep the music alive.
ATX City Lifestyle: What are you most proud of when it comes to your legacy in Austin?
Benson: I’ve kept Asleep at the Wheel alive for over 50 years, and that’s no small feat. Over 100 musicians have played with us, and we’ve managed to maintain the sound and spirit of the band through it all.
I’m also proud of the work we’ve done to support other musicians. HAAM, for instance, provides healthcare to local artists, and we’ve worked to preserve Texas dance halls as vital spaces for live music. Those efforts are about giving back to the community that has given me so much.
Benson reflects on part of his
ATX City Lifestyle: Your birthday bash has become the unofficial kickoff to SXSW. How did that tradition start, and what does it mean to you?
Benson: It started as a way to celebrate my birthday with friends, but it’s grown into something much bigger. Now, it’s this big event that not only celebrates music but also raises money for causes like HAAM. I’m not officially part of SXSW, but the bash ties into its spirit, bringing people together to celebrate Austin’s music culture.
ATX City Lifestyle: Rising costs and gentrification are making it harder for musicians to live and work in Austin. How can we preserve Austin’s identity as the “Live Music Capital”?
Benson: It’s going to take a collective effort. We need affordable housing for musicians, more small venues and policies that support live music. Wealthy philanthropists are working on housing solutions, and organizations like HAAM are stepping up. But we also need the community to show up — go to shows, hire local musicians and support venues.
Ultimately, it’s about creating an ecosystem where musicians can thrive. Without places to play and people to listen, we risk losing the essence of Austin’s music scene.
ATX City Lifestyle: What do you think makes music such a defining feature of Austin’s culture?
Benson: Music has always been the soul of this city. It brings people together, bridges divides, and creates a sense of community. Austin’s unique because it’s a crossroads, a place where different genres and cultures mix. That’s what makes it special, and that’s why people keep coming back.
ATX City Lifestyle: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of Austin’s music scene?
Benson: I’m optimistic. There’s more great music being made now than ever before. Artists like Billy Strings are showing that there’s still an appetite for honest, authentic music. The key is to support these artists and the venues that showcase them.
I’ve always said music is cyclical. Every 12 years, a new generation comes along, bringing fresh ideas and energy. If we can create the right environment, Austin will continue to be a home for live music for years to come.
makes a difference.
ATX City Lifestyle: You’ve often spoken about the importance of Texas dance halls. Why do they matter so much to you?
Benson: Texas dance halls are iconic. They’re where communities came together for music, dancing and connection. Unfortunately, we’re losing them due to rising real estate costs and urban sprawl. Preserving these spaces is vital because they’re more than venues; they’re cultural landmarks. That’s why I’ve worked with organizations to raise money to keep them alive. If we lose the dance halls, we lose part of Texas’ musical heritage.
ATX City Lifestyle: What’s your advice for young musicians starting out in Austin today?
Benson: Enjoy the process and understand that the journey itself has to be the reward. The money and fame may not come, but if you love what you’re doing, that’s what matters. And hustle. Success in this business is about talent and hard work. You’ve got to be willing to put in the effort.
ATX City Lifestyle: Finally, what message would you like to leave for Austin residents about keeping live music alive?
Benson: Support your local musicians. Go to their shows, hire them for events, and spend your money where it makes a difference. Austin’s music scene is a treasure, but it needs all of us to keep it alive. Together, we can ensure that this city remains the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
RODEO
Since its establishment in 1938, Rodeo Austin has been a part of Central Texas culture, with its deep commitment to the community and youth development. This year, hundreds of kids as young as third grade are participating in local 4H and FFA clubs across the state. One of them is 17-year-old Savanna Elizondo of Webberville, a village in far eastern Travis County.
“I got involved in 4H when I was in second grade,” Elizondo said. “My cousins showed animals, and my aunt convinced me to try it out. I won first place showing a lamb and a goat in third grade, and I was hooked.”
Ten major livestock shows are held across Texas, including Rodeo Austin. Elizondo has competed, placed and made sales in five of them.
When she was younger, she preferred showing sheep because she thought it was more fun to groom and prepare them. These days, she prefers the Boer goats she presents in the Market Whether Goat Show.
During this year’s Travis County Youth Show, Elizondo took home Grand Champion in the Lamb Show, and she is counting on bringing home the same title, but for her goat entry at this year’s Rodeo Austin.
“They have great personalities, and they’re fun to work with,” she said. “This year, I’m showing Snoop Dogg at Rodeo Austin, the one with the black head. He’s got great markings and is structurally sound – something the judges look for.”
While Elizondo doesn’t name all of the animals she raises for show, this year’s group was aptly named.
“We have Kid Rock because he’s so hyper, Snoop because he’s so chill and laid back, Roly-Poly because he was a round little baby, and Jake because his breeder’s name was Jay, and I wanted to name him something similar,” she said.
All of the livestock she raises eventually go to market once they compete and are auctioned off.
“Sometimes I get a little sad about letting them go,” Elizondo said. “Especially if I’ve bonded with them, but this is what I do, and I knew from the beginning that it was part of the process. You have to let them go.”
What began as a modest event has grown into one of Austin’s premier attractions. Since 2022, it has drawn over 400,000 attendees who come to celebrate rodeo traditions and support local causes.
“The first livestock show in 1940 was called the Austin Baby Beef Show,” CEO Glen Alan Phillips said. “It took place on the grounds of the State Capitol, and by 1984, it had moved to the Travis County Expo Center, where it’s been held ever since.”
Over the decades, it has become an integral part of Austin’s identity, blending its agricultural heritage with modern entertainment. The event now includes professional rodeo competitions, a star-studded concert series with acts like Robert Earl Keen and Dashboard Confessionals, and a carnival that attracts families and visitors from across the region.
At the heart of Rodeo Austin’s mission is its impact on young people like Savanna through the Junior Livestock Show and related programs.
“We had just under 10,000 entries, exceeding the previous years, to the different events this year,” Phillips said. “Recently, we’ve added an ag-robotics competition and science fair, and this is the first year for us to have a public speaking competition.”
These initiatives allow the youth to showcase their animals and agricultural projects. Beyond that, these programs “foster immense responsibility, a strong work ethic and a connection to Texas’ rural roots,” Phillips said.
For many participants, these experiences lead to scholarships and other educational opportunities, paving the way for bright futures.
“As far as our scholarship program goes, we partner with various universities, Austin Community College and trade schools across the state,” Phillips said. “Those scholarship dollars go back into the state while advancing the participant’s education.”
The rodeo’s positive influence extends beyond youth development. Since its inception, the nonprofit has dramatically impacted the Austin economy, “pouring in millions of dollars to the city,” Phillips said.
As Rodeo Austin continues to grow, it maintains its commitment to blending entertainment with purpose. These experiences honor Texas traditions and empower our community.
“We’re just excited to provide an opportunity for students to come out and compete,” Phillips said. “It teaches them how to deal with adversity. Just like in life, you work all year, as Savanna has done by preparing her lamb and goat, but life throws curveballs, and you can’t win every time. It makes you work harder and try again.”
“WE’RE JUST EXCITED TO PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO COME OUT AND COMPETE.”
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
Spring in Austin promises not only bluebonnets and warmer temperatures but also a surge in allergens that can make life challenging for residents with sensitivities. Effective spring cleaning is essential to minimize indoor allergens and ensure a healthier living environment.
Austin's unique climate contributes to a variety of allergens. According to Greater Austin Allergy, oak pollen is predominant in early spring, while grass pollen becomes more prevalent as the season progresses. These allergens can easily infiltrate homes, exacerbating allergy sufferers' symptoms.
A thorough cleaning regimen is crucial. Molly Maid, a national cleaning service company, suggests dusting with a damp microfiber cloth to effectively capture particles without dispersing them into the air.
According to Molly Maid’s website, dander management is vital for households with pets. Regular grooming, combined with frequent cleaning of pet bedding and vacuuming of areas where pets frequent, can help control the spread of allergens.
In a recent Real Simple article, experts recommend replacing HVAC filters every three months or more frequently if pets are present or residents smoke. Using high-rated filters –MPR 1500 or higher and ensuring vents are clean can prevent dust buildup and improve air quality.
"Consistency is key to reducing allergens in your home,"
— Molly Maid experts said
Vacuuming carpets and upholstery with a HEPA-filter-equipped vacuum can trap fine particles that standard vacuums might miss. Mopping hard floors with a damp mop further reduces dust and allergens.
Certain areas in homes often accumulate dust unnoticed. Ceiling fans, light fixtures, window sills, and baseboards should be regularly cleaned. Vacuuming curtains and blinds and washing bedding in hot water weekly can significantly reduce dust mites and other allergens.
Reducing clutter minimizes dust accumulation and makes cleaning more manageable. Aspire Allergy’s website recommends addressing leaks and using dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and basements, to prevent mold growth, a common allergen.
"Consistency is key to reducing allergens in your home," Molly Maid experts said. They recommend a systematic cleaning approach, ensuring all areas are addressed to maintain a healthy environment.
By implementing these targeted spring cleaning strategies, Austinites can effectively reduce indoor allergens, leading to a more comfortable and healthy living space during allergy season.
ARTICLE BY JULIE ROYCE
Spring break is around the corner! If you’re looking to escape the SXSW madness that will soon descend on Austin, we’ve put together a list of family-friendly day trips. It’s time to load up the car with snacks, sunscreen and bug spray and head to one of these Central Texas locales.
The LBJ Ranch, part of the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, offers an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Located near Johnson City, the ranch provides a glimpse into the life and legacy of the 36th president of the United States and his family.
Children will enjoy exploring the show barn, which offers cattle and other ranching activities. Families can also picnic under sprawling live oaks or stroll along nature trails that highlight the region’s flora and fauna. This adventure offers a memorable and family-friendly day trip filled with discovery and fun.
Hamilton Pool is a hidden oasis about 40 minutes west of Austin. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning waterfall, which cascades into a limestone grotto. Surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs, it’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.
To preserve this unique site, reservations are mandatory and cost $11 online, with an additional $15 cash vehicle fee. Plan ahead to secure your spot, and don’t forget your swimsuit—this natural pool is a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
Cascade Caverns, in Boerne, about an hour and a half southwest of Austin, offers a subterranean adventure for visitors of all ages. This family-friendly destination showcases limestone formations, underground waterfalls and prehistoric geological features that have been millions of years in the making.
Guided tours take guests through the cool, illuminated caverns, where knowledgeable guides share stories about the cave's history, ecology and formation. For families seeking hands-on fun, the caverns offer activities like gemstone mining, allowing kids to sift through sediment to uncover hidden treasures.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Enchanted Rock, a stunning pink granite dome offering panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country about an hour and 40 minutes northwest of Austin. With over 11 miles of trails, it’s suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, and can be made online. The park’s rock-climbing and bird-watching opportunities make it a versatile destination. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the heat can be intense.
In New Braunfels, about 50 minutes south of Austin, the Gruene historic district combines culture, music and outdoor fun. Gruene Hall, Texas’s oldest continually operating dance hall, hosts live music daily, while the Guadalupe River offers tubing and kayaking adventures.
Stroll through Gruene’s antique shops and savor local delicacies at charming eateries. This small town’s rich German heritage and vibrant atmosphere make it a fun getaway.
Georgetown, just north of Austin, exudes small-town charm with its Victorian architecture and quaint downtown. Explore local shops and dine at cozy eateries before heading to Blue Hole Park for a dose of natural beauty.
Take the kids to tour Inner Space Cavern’s geological formations. It has large rooms, prehistoric animal bones and an interesting discovery story. It remains a constant 72 degrees (but feels like 80 degrees with the humidity) year-round, so there’s no need for a sweater. Take a ride on the newly opened Saber Tooth Zip Ride to round out the adventure.
