The glider pilots of Bergstrom
FOOD + BEVERAGE PERFECT THANKSGIVING SIDES
LIFE + CULTURE
BRIDGING MILITARY LEADERSHIP TO COMMUNITY ADVOCACY
Thankful for Austin
With Veterans Day around the corner, we are dedicating this issue to those who have served our country. It has a special place in my heart as the granddaughter of a Purple Heart recipient. Our cover story highlights the incredible story of the glider pilots who played a crucial role in Austin's World War II military contribution. We also spotlight two nonprofits with military ties.
As we come together with friends and family for Thanksgiving later this month, you'll find some helpful recipes. And you know what comes next. We have a gift guide just for such an occasion.
To round out our issue, you'll find a feature on a local Indian American DJ who's lighting up the party scene with Bollywood Nights. Enjoy!
LISA
OGLE, EDITOR @ATXCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Zack Fogelman | zack.fogelman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lisa Ogle | lisa.ogle@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Juan Martinez | juan.martinez@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Juliet Cano | julietncano@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Aradhya Bharti, Willie Cochran, Alyssa Cohee, Ramona Cruz-Peters, Monique Taylor
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ramona Cruz-Peters, Aradhya Bharti, Adjusted ATX, National Museum of the United States Airforce
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
NOVEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
@COWGIRL_CLICKS
1: A crowd supports the deaf community during the Deaf Artisan Market Day at Meanwhile Brewing. 2: The Central Market on North Lamar's 1,000-pound charcuterie board set a Guinness World Record. 3: Attendees welcome the Autumn Equinox through mediation during a Rad Wellbeing women's wellness retreat. 4: The Center for Healing and Regenerative Medicine, or CHARM, hosts a happy hour. 5: Local artists, creators, food vendors and more participate in the biannual Pecan Street Festival. 6: Members of the Austin Chamber of Commerce welcome the food hall Fareground on Congress Avenue. 7: Local musicians perform during 'Bummer Night,' a showcase of sad songs, at Carousel Lounge.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ZACK FOGELMAN
AUSTIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CENTRAL MARKET
ZACK FOGELMAN
PECAN STREET FESTIVAL
business monthly
FVF Law celebrates 10th anniversary with Super Lawyer designation
FVF Law marks 10 years since co-founders Josh Fogelman and Aaron Von Flatern teamed up to create a value-driven law firm. Coinciding with the anniversary, Fogelman and Von Flatern have been selected as Super Lawyers by Thomson Reuters for the third year in a row. Both were also recognized for years on the Rising Stars list.
Scan to read more
The Agency Austin opens new office location
The Agency Austin, a leading luxury real estate brokerage, has opened its new office in The River South, one of Austin’s most iconic buildings. Known for its modern design and stunning views of the Colorado River, the location reflects The Agency’s commitment to excellence, innovation and luxury. Managing Partner Ana Ruelas highlights the office as a key milestone, offering agents and clients cutting-edge technology and personalized service in a premier setting.
Michele Harris, PT, has been certified as a NeuFit Master Instructor. This now makes CHARM one of only eight facilities across the U.S. designated as a COE - Center of Excellence - to provide and teach therapists in the hands-on application of the method after they complete their basic Practitioner Certification with Neufit. Scan to read more Scan to read more
CHARM earns Neufit 'Center of Excellence' designation
BRIDGING THE GAP
FROM MILITARY LEADERSHIP TO COMMUNITY ADVOCACY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA COHEE
“CONTINUED COLLABORATION BETWEEN NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES WILL BE KEY TO FACILITATING SUCCESS”
Native flowers add pops of color to the landscaped grounds of the nonprofit Patriots’ Hall in Dripping Springs. Visitors can sit back in a blue Adirondack chair in the shade of a patio, with a nearby American Flag fluttering in the wind.
Patriots’ Hall is the fruition of Founding Board Member Kathryn Chandler’s dream. An homage to her father, a Vietnam veteran, the 10-acre campus provides a retreat and resource hub for active military members, veterans and their families. This includes free counseling services, job training and recreational activities. Successful reintegration is crucial for the well-being of veterans and the communities they join,
fostering mutual growth and understanding, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ website.
Retired Lt. Gen. Scott McKean exemplifies how military leadership skills can be effectively applied, Chandler said. Upon retiring from his 33-year career in the Army in January, McKean embraced a new mission as executive director of Patriots’ Hall. In the role, he is dedicated to the organization’s goals.
“The military community finds strength through service,” he said, emphasizing that as the needs evolve, ongoing research and policy development are essential to ensure that support systems remain effective.
“Continued collaboration between nonprofit organizations, and local communities will be key to facilitating success,” Chandler added.
One of those collaborations is with the nonprofit ArenaM, which originated in the Washington, D.C., area and is developing a second home in Austin. ArenaM supports elite athletes and military to create fulfilling post-uniform lives.
After transitioning out of uniform, service members can experience various challenges navigating the world from which they’ve been previously isolated, much like elite athletes, said Karen Charchan, a retired Army veteran and founder of ArenaM.
“We bring these communities together for a new team,” she said. “We provide career and industry orientation, mentorship and support in finding a new purpose and identity - which is an underestimated struggle.”
ArenaM and Patriots’ Hall will be hosting roundtables and workshops for Austinbased veteran nonprofits to collaborate and leverage one another’s strengths and observations to better serve those who have served.
To get involved with Patriots’ Hall, visit patriotshall.org . To learn more about ArenaM, visit ArenaM.org .
Ret. Lt. Gen. Scott McKean
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
On the side, for a crowd
PRESENTING YOUR NEW GO-TO RECIPES FOR FRIENDSGIVING OR THANKSGIVING POTLUCKS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAMONA CRUZ-PETERS
Mini Spinach Quiche
INGREDIENTS
• 2 circles prepared pie crust dough
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch cayenne
DIRECTIONS
1. Spray 24-cup mini muffin pan with nonstick spray. Cut 24 (2 1/2-inch) circles from the dough. Press into muffin cups.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet. Sauté spinach, onion and garlic until onions are translucent. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.
3. Whisk eggs and heavy cream in a bowl. Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and spinach mixture.
4. Spoon into the crust. Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden. Cool in pan for 5 minutes.
Mini Spinach Quiche
Zesty Orange-Ginger Cranberry Sauce
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 whole cloves
• 3 whole allspice
• 12 ounces cranberries, rinsed and soft berries discarded
• Zest of 1 orange
DIRECTIONS
1. Bring sugar, orange juice, water, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and allspice to a boil in a saucepan. Cook, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add cranberries and cook until berries pop frequently. Reduce heat.
3. Add orange zest. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Discard cinnamon sticks, cloves and allspice. Allow to cool and thicken.
Vegan GlutenFree Stuffing
INGREDIENTS
• 16 ounces vegan, gluten-free bread, cubed
• 1/2 cup vegan butter
• 2 cups diced celery and onion
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 2 cups vegetable broth
DIRECTIONS
1. Toast bread cubes on baking sheets at 350° for 10 minutes. Transfer to large bowl.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan. Add celery and onion. Sauté until onion is soft but celery still has snap. Add the spices. Cook for 1 more minute. Add vegetable stock. Bring to a boil.
3. Pour over bread cubes. Stir gently to combine. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Vegan GlutenFree Stuffing
Zesty Orange-Ginger Cranberry Sauce
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
• 16 ounces macaroni
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups low-fat milk
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• Garlic salt
DIRECTIONS
1. Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain.
2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add green onions and garlic; cook for 1 minute. Add flour; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, salt and pepper, stirring constantly with a whisk until blended. Bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes, or until thickened. Gradually add Gouda and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted.
3. Mix macaroni into cheese sauce, then pour into a 9"x13" baking dish coated with nonstick spray. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top. Sprinkle with garlic salt and additional Parmesan.
4. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes, or until sauce is bubbly and topping is lightly browned.
Mixing beats, blending cultures
ARTICLE AND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ARADHYA BHARTI
In the dark but upbeat Cedar Street Courtyard in downtown Austin, over 600 people — many in their 20s and about two-thirds of Indian descent — dance to a fusion of western beats and music from all parts of India.
Anupi Chandiramani, owner of Austin-based events company Ananya Creations, hosts and DJs events, such as weddings, birthday parties and Bollywood Nights, which are open to the public every weekend.
“Mixing music from different parts of the world, finding similarities and finding songs that mesh well together from completely different genres and cultures always fascinated me,” she said. “Growing up in the U.S. and also
INDIAN
AMERICAN DJ
BRINGS BOLLYWOOD MUSIC TO AUSTIN’S GROWING MULTICULTURAL NIGHTLIFE SCENE
GROWING UP IN THE U.S. AND ALSO HAVING FAMILY FROM INDIA AND WANTING TO BRING TWO CULTURES TOGETHER IS REALLY WHERE MIXING MUSIC CAME FROM.
having family from India and wanting to bring two cultures together is really where mixing music came from.”
Chandiramani is the first woman in her family to pursue a career in the events industry.
“I definitely faced a lot of challenges,” she said, as most of her family members became doctors or engineers.
About a decade ago, Chandiramani started hosting Bollywood Nights for about 50 people at the Indian restaurant Clay Pit in downtown Austin, and now, the parties welcome crowds “from different countries and cultures just looking to have a good time and immerse themselves in our culture,” Chandiramani said.
Her next gig is at IDEA USA's fundraiser, Thanksgiving Fest, from noon to 7 p.m. Nov. 17 at Lakeline Park in Cedar Park. Learn more at ideausa.org.
Of the foreign-born population in Austin in 2022, India ranked second, according to a recent City of Austin report.
Initially, “it was definitely hard breaking into the industry,” Chandiramani said. “But now, with the growth in the past five years in Texas and having a lot of South Asian artists really make it to the top, whether in Coachella, ACL or winning at the Oscars, as DJs, it really helped our business and made us more popular.”
DJ Anupi Chandiramani
AIRMEN PLAYED VITAL ROLE IN AUSTIN'S WWII MILITARY CONTRIBUTION
The glider pilots of Bergstrom
Glider infantrymen (AKA "Glider Riders") in the back of a CG-4A glider.
ARTICLE BY A. MONIQUE TAYLOR
The interior of a CG-4A glider
Waco CG-4A
This
bond between
Bergstrom and the Austin community would continue even after the
war ended.
During World War II, a unique and daring group of military pilots flew missions that put them directly in harm's way, often without any means to defend themselves. These were the Troop Carrier glider pilots, men tasked with flying unarmed, engine-less aircraft called gliders into battle zones filled with enemy fire. Their planes were so dangerous and vulnerable that they often called themselves "Suicide Jockeys."
In Austin, Bergstrom Air Force Base, originally known as Del Valle Army Airfield, played a critical role in training these pilots. The base helped prepare them for the dangers ahead, transitioning them to their overseas roles. Many would go on to fly some of the most important missions of the war. This story of courage, sacrifice and military history is rooted in our local soil.
THE BEGINNINGS OF DEL VALLE ARMY AIRFIELD
Austin’s connection to the glider pilots started with the construction of Del Valle Army Airfield during World War II. In 1942, the U.S. military needed a new training facility and turned to the City of Austin, leasing the land to build an airfield for the military. The Troop Carrier pilots stationed there were responsible for flying C-47s and gliders that transported supplies, airmen and equipment to the battlefields during the war.
The airfield was later renamed Bergstrom Army Airfield in 1943, in honor of Capt. John August Earl Bergstrom, an Austin native who was killed in World War II during the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor. This renaming cemented the base’s local significance.
THE CHALLENGE OF FLYING GLIDERS
The WWII glider pilot's job was fraught with danger. Unlike regular aircraft, gliders had no engines. They were towed into the sky by C-47's and then released over enemy territory. Once detached, the pilots had only their skill and the laws of physics to guide them down to the ground. They couldn't turn back. They couldn't call for reinforcements. They were on a one-way trip.
The gliders carried soldiers, medical supplies, ammunition and even vehicles into combat zones. The pilots had to land in fields that were often filled with obstacles — trees, mines and enemy soldiers. Once on the ground, the pilots and their passengers were immediately thrown into battle.
For many of these pilots, the first challenge was simply landing without crashing. Gliders were designed to be light and could be easily damaged by antiaircraft fire, small arms fire, mortars or rough terrain. An additional challenge was the enemy fire that greeted them when they approached and landed on the landing
A soldier communicates via radio beside a CG15A glider, designed to replace the CG-4A
This glider came down perfectly, as evidenced by the landing gear, still intact. It probably was burned by the crew.
Austin-Bergstrom airport stands as a symbol of brave men who risked everything for their country. “ ”
zones. Landings could be chaotic as they dodged physical features of the landscape, other gliders, men and obstacles intentionally placed in the fields to destroy the gliders and occupants.
THE LOCAL CONNECTION:
BERGSTROM'S ROLE
Del Valle Army Airfield housed the 316th Troop Carrier Group for a short time. The glider they would fly in the war — the CG-4A — was still in production at this time. Many of the 316th TCG glider pilots spent their time at the base in the co-pilot’s seat of the C-47s.
The glider pilots from the 316th TCG would fly in the first major glider mission of the war, the Invasion of Sicily. They would also fly in the Invasions of Normandy, Southern France and Holland. These missions were pivotal in pushing back Axis forces and ultimately winning the war.
The airfield, though, wasn’t just a training ground for pilots. It became a key part of the local Austin community. The military’s presence at Bergstrom brought new jobs, increased activity and a sense of pride to the city. Many locals worked at the base, contributing to the war effort in their own way. This bond between Bergstrom and the Austin community would continue even after the war ended.
OPERATION LADBROKE AND THE GLIDERS OF SICILY
One of the earliest Allied missions of the war involving glider pilots was the invasion of Sicily, also known as Operation LADBROKE. The operation took place on the night of July 9, 1943, and involved both British and American forces. Over 140 gliders, both British and American, were towed across the Mediterranean Sea and off the Sicilian coast. Among the glider co-pilots were volunteers from the 316th TCG who had trained at Bergstrom.
The mission did not go as planned. Gale force winds, near dark conditions and early glider releases caused many gliders to crash into the sea. Many glider pilots and airmen were lost. Despite these setbacks, the glider pilots played a key role through the rest of the war in the future invasions into Europe.
THE LEGACY OF BERGSTROM AIR FORCE BASE
After the war, Bergstrom continued to play an important role in the U.S. Air Force. The base was used for various military purposes throughout the Cold War and beyond, until its closure in 1993. Today, Bergstrom's legacy lives on in the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which was built on the old military airfield.
CONTINUED >
A crashed glider with an in-tact bulldozer in the China, India, Burma Theater (CBI).
Many people pass through the airport every day, but few realize the important military history beneath their feet. The brave glider pilots who trained here went on to fly in some of the most dangerous missions of World War II, many of them never returning home. Their story is one of courage and sacrifice, and it’s one that’s deeply connected to Austin.
REMEMBERING THE GLIDER PILOTS
The story of the glider pilots of Bergstrom Air Force Base is an important part of Austin’s history. These glider pilots trained in our own backyard and flew dangerous missions that were critical to the Allied victory in World War II. They landed under fire, behind enemy lines, often under extreme danger. Yet
their courage helped turn the tide in battles across Europe and the Pacific.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport stands as a symbol of brave men who risked everything for their country. Their bravery and determination made a difference in the world, and their story is one that should never be forgotten.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Monique Taylor is the daughter of a WWII combat glider pilot, a professional historian and a researcher with the National WWII Glider Pilot Association. She is the author of “Suicide Jockeys: The Making of the WWII Combat Glider Pilot,” available at all major book sellers.
Troop carrier Douglas C-47s tow Waco CG-4A gliders during the invasion of France in June 1944.
They landed under fire, behind enemy lines, often under extreme danger. Yet their courage helped turn the tide in battles across Europe and the Pacific.
An ariel view of Bergstrom Airforce Base
CG-4A Glider Pilot Lt. Col. Paul Mousseau (USAF ret.)
Bergstrom Airforce Base HQ - 1943
–
THANKFUL FOR HEALTH
Holistic chiropractic care focuses on healing and long-term wellness
ARTICLE BY WILLIE COCHRAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADJUSTED ATX
Imagine struggling with back and neck pain since the age of 14. That was the story of one nurse’s life until she went to Adjusted ATX Chiropractic Clinic.
The experience was life-changing, she said. “After just two adjustments, I felt a significant difference.”
Dr. Kyle Hardwick and his team focus on more than just pain relief. They look to improve the overall well-being of their patients. This holistic approach is central to their advanced chiropractic care and specialized therapies that go beyond basic adjustments.
Dr. Hardwick’s mission as a chiropractor is to help his patients lead healthier lives.
“Dr. Kyle fixed what my doctor, physical therapists and acupuncture couldn’t,” said a patient who had pain in her side for nearly four years before seeing Dr. Hardwick. After about four months of treatment, “my symptoms turned nearly nonexistent. Now, I go for an adjustment only as needed and have been able to get back to normal daily functioning.”
Dr. Hardwick takes the time to explain how spinal health influences overall wellness, empowering his patients to take charge of their health.
COMPREHENSIVE CARE WITH A HOLISTIC FOCUS
Dr. Hardwick’s approach is unique in its focus on wholebody wellness. Chiropractic adjustments are key, restoring proper alignment to the spine and joints, but the clinic also incorporates a variety of therapies to enhance recovery and prevent future problems. Each treatment plan is customized, whether patients are dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries or everyday discomfort.
One standout is Wobble Chair Therapy, which stretches and mobilizes the spine, improving flexibility and circulation in the lower back and pelvis. This therapy helps patients prepare for adjustments while preventing future injuries and maintaining spinal health.
Dr. Kyle Hardwick
“Dr. Kyle Hardwick’s personalized, holistic care not only relieves pain but improves overall well-being, helping patients lead healthier, more active lives in the community.”
For those dealing with neck pain or stiffness, Cervical Traction Therapy offers targeted relief by gently stretching and realigning the cervical spine. It’s particularly helpful for individuals who spend long hours at a desk, helping correct posture and reduce tension.
Another effective therapy offered is Intersegmental Traction, which passively stretches the spine and stimulates surrounding muscles and ligaments to promote natural healing. Patients often find this to be a relaxing, therapeutic complement to their chiropractic adjustments.
For patients with more serious conditions such as herniated discs or sciatica, Decompression Table Therapy is a highly effective treatment. This noninvasive therapy gently stretches the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs, allowing them to rehydrate and heal.
“Dr. Kyle's passion for what he does separates him from any other chiropractor,” one patient said. “There is no one else I would rather turn to.”
GIFTING MADE EASY
We have something unique for everyone on your list
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAMONA CRUZ-PETERS
Warm hearts this holiday season with a batch of three hand-selected straight bourbon whiskies from Milam & Greene: premium Texas Bourbon for a pop of spice, Kentucky Bourbon for hints of vanillas and fruits, and vintage Tennessee Bourbon for structure and tannins. It’s the perfect whiskey for sipping or enjoying in a cocktail. Order at milamandgreenewhiskey.com
Play a game of pickleball anytime, anywhere with this easy set-up, collapsible pickleball net. Weighing about 3 pounds, this durable net collapses into a carrying case. Each net includes a court expanding system that allows joining nets together in an instant. Available in several colors. Buy on amazon.com .
The foodie in your life can create artisan-style pizzas at home or on the go with this portable electric pizza oven. Simple controls, dual-heating elements and temperatures up to 900°F ensure delicious results every time. It comes with essential accessories and is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Buy on amazon.com
1. MILAM & GREENE TRIPLE CASK BOURBON
2. DINK BUDDY PORTABLE PICKLEBALL NET
3. NEWAIR ELECTRIC INDOOR/ OUTDOOR PIZZA OVEN
Pamper your pooch with adorable French dog macarons. They are 100% natural, wheatfree, corn-free and contain no preservatives or artificial colors. Backed by veterinarians, Bonne et Filou uses human-grade ingredients to make sure dogs are getting a great blend of nutritious foods in each gorgeously packaged treat. Order at bonneetfilou.com
4.
Budsies allows children to use their imagination to create their very own character, then see that creation come to life as a toy they can play with for years to come. They’re designed to look just like your drawing or photo, then hand-sewn with super plush hypoallergenic stuffing. Order at budsies.com
Plant parents need this stylish grow lamp for their indoor plants. It has an adjustable height from 10-55 inches, and auto on/off timers in different timing modes provide lighting plants need when you’re not home. It’s suitable for all stages of growth. Buy on amazon.com .
5. BONNE ET FILOU DOG MACARONS
6. ADJUSTABLE INDOOR PLANTS GROWING LIGHTS
DESIGN YOUR OWN BUDSIES STUFFED ANIMAL
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