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Leukemia & Lympoma Society

Edie Surtees — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 22:20:12 -0500

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7 Steps to Building your Dream Backyard

capty99 — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:29:16 -0500

With all there is to consider when it comes to backyard improvements, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. To make the job a bit easier, we have turned to local landscape expert, Shawn Blazek of Blazek Landscapes. Whether you are renovating your existing yard or starting from scratch, take these steps to make your current backyard a dream getaway.

1 Budget Set a budget you would like to stay within for the project that gives you a great outdoor space without breaking the bank.

2 Goals, Wants, & Needs Make a list of your family’s short and long term goals, wants and needs for the space you would like to transform. Elements such as playscapes, pools, patios, water features, herb & vegetable gardens, butterfly gardens, outdoor kitchens and irrigation systems may make your list. Be sure to keep in mind those often forgotten features such as security, drainage, climate, sunlight and soil depth. Be sure to focus on what you like and do not like about the existing landscape.

3 Prioritize Prioritize your list while keeping in mind the need to create a seamless transition between not only the inside and outside, but between each outdoor feature in your overall space. You will want to have an open air feel so you feel one with nature, yet still have your desired sense of privacy. Also keep in mind what you would like to see from inside the house as you alter the view.

4 Design Select a professional landscape designer to translate your vision into a beautiful, functional design based on both prioritized and original lists. You should receive an itemized estimate of each project feature.

5 Expectation Determine what combination of items in the design will meet the budget and priority list. Fully discuss the project with your contractors and landscapers so you know what to expect of the selected items in the finished project.

6 Installation Have the selected custom backyard installed and receive instructions on how to maintain each space.

7 Maintenance Carefully monitor the progress of your new backyard because a healthy landscape enhances the appeal and value of your home. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy your new living space for years to come!

For more information, Contact Shawn Blazek at blazeklandscapes@mac.com, or call 512-923-0210.

Media Bits : Projector or Television

capty99 — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:23:45 -0500

I see advertisements about using projectors for home theaters, but I’ve seen projectors in conference rooms, and they’re all washed out. Would it be better to buy a projector or a large flat-screen TV?
– Jim T., Dripping Springs

As with most things in life, Jim, the answer depends on a number of things. In this situation, it all comes down to Location, Lighting, Lifestyle and Loot.

Location: If you read my article in the previous issue about how to decide on the size of a screen, you were probably surprised by how large of a screen was recommended for a really immersive experience (for a viewing distance of 15 feet, the recommended screen size ranged from 110” to 135”). Does the room you’re thinking about for this home theater have a wall that can be used for that size screen? Or are there immovable objects in each wall?

Lighting: Too much light in the room used to be the Achilles’ heel of projectors. It would wash out the picture, making objects on the screen look like just different shades of grey. But recent advancements in screen technology have helped this situation tremendously. For instance, Screen Innovations (an Austin-based company) makes the new Black Diamond projection screen. This screen will give you a great picture in almost any lighting situation! A large projected picture in a light-filled environment is no longer an oxymoron.

Lifestyle: One of the best parts of having a dedicated home theater with a giant screen is the control it offers. Instead of having to pay to sit in seats next to crying babies, people talking on cell phones, eating $5 popcorn, and missing part of the movie if “nature calls”, you’re in total control. On the other hand, if you have three-yearolds that like to write on the walls with crayons and markers, a projector and screen is probably not your best bet at this point in your life. How about the idea of playing Halo or Wii Sports on a life-size screen – sound good?

Loot: Most people believe that they will have to spend much more to get a front projector than it would cost to get a flatpanel. But this is really one of the biggest misconceptions about front projectors.

Today’s flat-panel television prices start to show diminishing returns around 58”. To get a larger TV, you’ll have to spend significantly more money for a couple more inches. Want a 100” diagonal screen? That’ll set you back around $100,000. Want a nice 100” projected screen? Maybe one-tenth of that figure.

With current prices, the crossover – the size at which front projectors become less expensive than good flat panels – is about 65”.

So, Jim, a little analysis of your current situation – and perhaps a home visit by an audio-video professional – can help you determine what’s best for you.

P.S. This issue of Your Address is all about giving back. As a cancer survivor, one of my favorite charities is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (www.lls.org/ctx). Literally hundreds of thousands of people are alive today due to the research work they’ve provided.

Tom Wilkinson is a home theater enthusiast, and is owner of Xpress Home Theaters. You can reach him at Tom@XpressHomeTheaters.com or at 512-217-6668.

Making Philanthropy Your Career

capty99 — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:16:17 -0500

“There are four things that are common to people who live long, happy, self-actualized lives,” says ALO executive Ted Leonsis. “One, they are active participants in multiple communities of interest; two, they show gratitude and say thank you; three, they volunteer and give back; and four, they are responding to a higher calling—a bigger mission than just making money.”

“Charity gives you all four of those things,” he concludes.

There are three major categories of charitable organizations -- private, corporate and community. The vast majority are private ones set up as nonprofit organizations and run by a board of trustees. Positions at most non-profits are highly coveted and difficult to get. Most who run them are experienced professionals and or administers with years of experience rising up the ranks to more senior roles.

People are always asking me how to transition into the non-profit sector, but rarely do they understand the true nature of working for such an organization. Yes, it is rewarding to work in a job that positively contributes to our community, but it is not a walk in the park. I believe that it is more demanding to work for a non-profit because you have limited staff and funds with which to operate and must rely on a dedicated staff of volunteers to help execute on programs. So often, it seems the organization is one donor shy of meeting their fundraising goals. However, if you feel passionate about a cause and are sick and tired of Corporate America, joining a non-profit may be the right choice for you. It is in these charitable-based organizations that you can feel true success at the deepest level.

Here are some strategies on how to make philanthropy your career:

Consider starting your own foundation. Charitable foundations are a prudent approach to managing your wealth, and this allows you the flexibility to donate to several different causes that interest you. Research, considering proposals and working with an accountant and lawyer can easily be a full-time job.

Look for positions at existing non-profits. Most jobs at non-profits pay below the competitive salary median and demand energy. Take your time and examine which causes really matter to you. Ask yourself, “How do you want to make a difference?” Your passion for the cause is what will make this job rewarding.

Start your own non-profit. Just like starting a business, clearly illustrate your cause on paper, pick a business name, and diligently prepare how you plan to execute your idea. You’ll need to examine the costs involved in start-up and maintenance. Do your due diligence by researching state and federal guidelines regulating non-profits, apply for applicable grants and loans, and work with experts to come up with a long-term growth strategy.

Provide Pro Bono Services. If you own your business or specialize in a specific trade or industry, providing your expertise and resources to a charitable cause is a great way to make philanthropy a part-time career. Many existing non-profits can’t afford legal fees, facility rental fees or to hire an expert staff to handle recruitment or marketing. There are millions of possibilities and ways to help. All it takes is a phone call.

Another topic that rises in any conversation about working for non-profits is salary. Salaries at non-profits are most often influenced by size the largest groups tend to offer the most generous compensation. Based on our knowledge of the Austin market, the median salary for a development professionals is around $70,000; the median salary for an executive director is around $115,000.

If you are looking to break into non-profit it could take awhile. The turnover rate tends to be very low; a major factor in employee loyalty is the small number of these jobs that are available in our small community. When these jobs are advertised, most people get a foot in the door because of networking with other people in the organization where they want to end up or they have volunteered for an extended amount of time. Whether it’s protecting animals, joining the green movement, helping children, furthering education, working for your church or contributing to the arts, everyone benefits when more people get involved in making a positive difference in our beloved community.

Ann Daly, Clarity : How to Refocus Yourself

capty99 — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:34:00 -0500

Another true story.

Jerri is a very smart, very talented lawyer--an associate at a large, prestigious law firm. She is the proud single mom of an infant boy and the survivor of a life-threatening illness.

When we met, Jerri was still on the mend. And she wanted to make a move. She wanted to relocate near her parents in a smaller city, so her son could live in a kid-friendly neighborhood with appropriately doting grandparents nearby.

Though she loved her work and planned to advance in her career, right now Jerri wanted to establish a different lifestyle for herself and her son.

Large law firms have not historically embraced off ramping, flextime, or leaves. Jerri's main concern was her job.

Would her current employer accommodate her move? Was this a good moment to open her own practice? Or to go corporate as an in-house counsel?

We explored all the possibilities, so Jerri could best "rehearse" all her options and visualize the big picture of how all the varied pieces of the puzzle might fit together.

But how would her boss, who depended upon her, respond? Anger? Dismissal out of hand? Should she have another job offer in hand? Would that make her position stronger, or would that be perceived as disloyal? These worries got the best of Jerri during one of our conversations.

She got herself to that dark place we're all familiar with when we play "What if?" In the game of "What if?" we give over our power to the person or organization whose reactions we are trying to predict. We go from "want" to "should."

Jerri had spiraled out of control by focusing on her employer's position rather than her own intentions. I wanted to bring her back to her place of clarity and power, so I gave her a freewriting assignment. Every day for the next week she was to spend 10 minutes describing the new life she was preparing for herself and her son.

A few days later, Jerri emailed me the news. After only two freewriting sessions, she couldn't put it off any longer. She reconnected with the depth of her desire to create a better life for her family, and she told her boss that she was going to move. Before she even had the chance, her boss suggested that Jerri continue working with the firm remotely.

Writing is an extraordinary tool for re-focusing yourself. When you're doubtful, it reminds you what you want. When you're confused, it sorts through the mess. When you're distracted, it brings you back to center.

So if you're needing the clarity and confidence that leads to action, try writing. Here are a few freewriting prompts to suit most situations:

What's happening?
What's missing?
What's wrong?
What's working?
What's next?
What's best?

Stay clear!
Ann

PS--What an enthusiastic response I've gotten to my upcoming FIND YOUR CLARITY mini-retreat for women. Click here to reserve your spot before we fill up.

capty99 — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:54:26 -0500

The Rising Cost of a College Degree

capty99 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 22:23:10 -0500

College costs are going through the roof, outpacing inflation and creating a huge financial hurdle for prospective students and their families. Many factors are contributing to escalating college costs, many of which are beyond the control of those affected most. Parents who provide students with financial support will need deep pockets, a combination of grants and scholarships or a generous loan to afford a higher education.

How much have costs risen on the college horizon? Consider that in 1997, average tuition and fees for a full-time undergraduate student at a private, four-year college was $13,785 and at a public four-year school, a mere $3,111 annually.* Ten years later, the average cost has jumped to $23,712 and $6,185 respectively. These costs do not include what students must pay for room and board, books and transportation to attend school, which easily can run to $10,000 or more annually. The College Board reports that average room and board charges increased $7,280 between 1997-98 and 2007-08, while corresponding grant aid and tax benefits during that same time period rose only $4,940.

Interestingly, there appears to be some regional differences in the cost of higher education. Average tuition and fees at public two- and four-year public institutions in Vermont and New Hampshire, for instance, tend to be much higher than these same fees for schools in California, where the state provides generous financial support to post-secondary schools. The cost of attending private fouryear colleges and universities also varies widely in different parts of the country. However, fluctuations may be more related to the prestige of the school and its faculty as well as the cost of living in the surrounding community, which influences professor salaries.

While the elite private universities may seem too pricey, data shows these schools are more likely to have generous endowments that enable them to help more students through grants and scholarships. Just this fall, Harvard, the pinnacle of the Ivy League, pledged that parents who earn under $40,000 will not be required to pay one cent for their child’s tuition, and also extended significant discounts to parents earning up to $120,000 annually. Few schools will be able to match this offer, but comparable big name schools with equally large endowments may follow suit.

The trends show that while college costs are rising across all institutions, tuition and fees at public four-year colleges appear to be rising at a faster rate. Plus, less money is available from state coffers for grants as education dollars shrink within state budgets. The more affordable route of attending a public university, while still less expensive, is not as affordable as it used to be.

More students are enrolled full time at fouryear institutions compared to ten years ago, creating more competition for admission into coveted schools. At the same time, state and local appropriations per student declined.

On the bright side, a good percentage of students did not pay the full sticker price for their college tuition. Federal and state grants and institutional and private scholarships help to reduce the overall cost of students attending college. Unfortunately, many middle-income families may not qualify for federal Pell grants because of low income thresholds. These same parents may qualify for federally subsidized (or unsubsidized) loans. However, when the cost of financing $20,000 or more per year is factored into the equation — and interest rates for college loans (if you can get one) are steadily inching upward — the cost of college is even more daunting.

If college costs cause you to doubt the value of a college education, think again. The statistics show a very strong correlation between future earning power and the presence of college degree, suggesting that it does matter in the long run. According to the Census Bureau, individuals with a bachelor’s degree will, on average, earn almost twice as much over the course of their lifetime as an individual who only holds a high school degree. ** What the Ivy League and other pricey schools may not tell you is that you may be able to get as much mileage out of a degree from a state university as one from a more expensive private school.

Whether your child is planning to attend college in the near or distant future, it helps to think about your options for footing the bill for tuition, fees, room and board, books and more as far in advance as possible. A financial advisor can help you assess your financial situation and plan for future college expenses. Think about your education goals for your children and start saving now to lessen the financial burden of college down the road.

*Source: Trends in College Pricing, data from Annual Survey of Colleges, The College Board, New York, NY, weighted by full-time undergraduate enrollment.

**Source: The Value of a College Degree, Porter, Kathleen, ERIC Digest.

This column is for informational purposes only. The information may not be suitable for every situation and should not be relied on without the advice of your tax, legal and/or financial advisors. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its financial advisors provide tax or legal advice. Consult with qualified tax and legal advisors about your tax and legal situation. This column was prepared by Ameriprise Financial.

Financial planning services and investments offered through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC.

Programs of the Junior League of Austin

capty99 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:44:01 -0500

Community projects have been the backbone of service for the JLA since its inception. In an effort to touch the lives of a broad number of Central Texans and impact many areas of the community, the League’s focus has been divided into categories of need, including health and well being, youth, education and cultural projects.

A Christmas Affair

Kicking off the holiday season, this event draws more than 200 merchants from across the country for a five day shopping extravaganza that allows Austin to share with JLA in the spirit of giving.

Aid for Better Classrooms (ABC) Grants

This program uses community funds to supplement funding for classroom teachers, enabling them to provide innovative instruction to Austin area school children.

Coats for Kids

For this annual community project, members collect and distribute warm winter coats to eligible children and teenagers in Central Texas.

Community Assistance Fund

Grants are awarded to local nonprofit agencies experiencing an emergency or disaster that places their operations in jeopardy, allowing these important organizations to continue operating and providing services while managing unforeseen expenses.

Con Mi MADRE... Mothers and Daughters Raising Expectations

Formerly the Hispanic Mother-Daughter Program, this college preparatory program provides Hispanic female students and their mothers with education and social support needed to encourage academic and personal success.

Done-in-a-Day

This program allows the JLA to provide assistance for nonprofit agencies with short-term volunteer needs. JLA volunteers help with events such as picnics, holiday parties, room makeovers and collection and delivery of various goods.

Sponsorship Fund

Grants are awarded to local nonprofit agencies for events that address a community issue or serve an unmet need in the Austin area, offering educational assistance and other services to these agencies.

UT String Project

The Junior League of Austin sponsors this program with the Fine Arts Department at the University of Texas to provide scholarships for lessons on string instruments to children.

Austin Lyric Opera 2008

capty99 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:42:41 -0500

Austin's Best Neighborhoods : Amenities to wish for

capty99 — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:37:11 -0500

Suburbanites have come a long way since the first introduction of the Levittown community in New York, America’s first suburban neighborhood. Since the famous community, suburban developments have greatly matured and demands are even higher than before. Expectations never run low and Austinites have a short drive into the city and more than a few amenities for their convenience. Historic or new, all of these exclusive neighborhoods feature beautiful homes with fantastic views of either the city, the hills or both. Austin’s rich history includes neighborhoods with a strong determination to keep their community as close to original as possible. New developments have become integrated within the outskirts of the city and some have even created their own services. No matter where you live, downtown or in the hills, take a peek at these neighborhoods to see what makes them special. You may find yourself packing.

River Place

From a garden club offering tips for a beautifully landscaped yard to a nature trail that follows along Panther Creek, this community offers more than just amenities. There are three scenic overlooks to enjoy a panoramic view of the neighborhood and a board walk is incorporated into the community which provides views of a pond located at the end of the nature trail. The elite River Place Country Club offers social activities, dining, as well as satisfying all of one’s fitness needs. Community events include a new resident welcome mixer and movies in the park.

Steiner Ranch

Apart from the spectacular sports amenities, this neighborhood provides its residents with more than 12 miles of nature trails and three community centers, with one resembling a water-park. The community boasts its 800 acres of nature preserve and stunning views of the Hill Country at its best. The exclusive Lake Club provides families with 11 boat docks, a pavilion and a playscape with dual access to both Lake Austin and Lake Travis. Children in the community have a choice between six neighborhood parks and a variety of play areas or wide open space throughout.

Austin Lake Hills

Wine and beer tasting are just a couple of activities that residents can enjoy in this community. Outdoor activities are common with basketball, volleyball, hiking and bicycling to choose from. Whether engaging in a political forum or gearing up the boat to enjoy a ride on Lake Austin, many find an experience to be had with ease and simplicity. Boat ramps and docks provide access to the popular lake and guarded swimming pools put parents at ease. The Cuerny Jam, sponsored by the Lake Hills Community Association, brings the community out to enjoy arts and crafts, music and food.

Arbolago

Lakefront views, lavish pools and easy access to Lake Travis offer a taste of what this community has to spoil their residents. A full-service Lakeway Marina can be accessed through a private 19-acre homeowner’s park. The woods of Arbolago provide a scenic setting for walking trails winding through. Homes in the neighborhood have a Mediterranean and Old World influence. Golfers can choose from four championship courses.

Villa Montaña

Internationally renowned interior designer and restaurateur, Beau Theriot has created a community that is exceptional, Villa Montaña in Comanche Canyon Ranch, nestled on a hilltop just past the Oasis. A beautiful enclave of timeless design and style. Unspoiled and exclusive, Villa Montaña features the natural beauty and architectural grace of a eclectic and intimate hillside village.

“It has been a 20 year quest to create a living environment that captures the aura and style of the Mediterranean set in Austin’s most scenic hills above Lake Travis. I want our home owners to feel the dedication and love of creativity thathas inspired Villa Montaña.” Whether you find inspiration in a beautiful sunset or pleasure in living in a perfectly designed home, Villa Montaña is Austin’s address for your lifestyle.

Villa Montaña is the ideal blend of gracious homes, majestic scenery and proximity to Texas’ most exciting city. With 44 of 98 lots still available, build your dream home or buy a new featured home. Luxury Lake living nestled within an eco-wise nature preserve.

A gated community, on property concierge service is located in the midst of a nature preserve just outside of Austin in the hills above Lake Travis, Villa Montaña is an exclusive address for only ninety-eight homeowners. Residents will enjoy a private park with panoramic lake and canyon views and incredible sunsets.

Vistas and street views are unobstructed as Villa Montaña features full underground utilities. Specially paved concrete streets further enhance the quality of life in a community where the importance of aesthetics and attention to detail is paramount. Architectural features, design integrity, and community standards at Villa Montaña are of the utmost importance.

Carefully controlled architectural standards; Consultations with Beau Theriot and his architectural design committee regarding your home’s architectural design elements.

On-Site Concierge Services includes;
- Personal appointment assistance (physicians, beauty, travel, spas, wellness, golf, marina, dinner and lawn care)
- Local knowledge and business referrals, from florist to housekeeping services
- 24-hour availability for emergency situations
- Oversees all common area maintenance and beautification . . . and the list goes on!

Estates of Lakeway Hills

Nestled in the city of Lakeway, this community provides recreational opportunities at The Hills Country Club such as private golf, tennis, fishing and swimming. On the shores of Lake Travis, the 64-acre Lakeway City Park is available for residents to relax or play. A clubhouse, community pool, playground and tennis courts are conveniently located in the neighborhood. Scenic jogging paths create a setting that any resident would enjoy.

The Ridge At Alta Vista

The Balcones Canyonland Nature Preserve surrounds three sides of the community and is sure to have a breathtaking view from almost every angle. A “tot lot” ensures hours of fun and serves its purpose as a children’s play area with a water feature. The grandiose gates, flanked by waterfalls and granite columns, set the ambience that seems to seep through to all the homes. A junior Olympic pool and clubhouse with a basketball court and fitness center are among the amenities.

Barton Creek

Made up of 16 different neighborhoods, this community is located southwest of downtown. There are many smaller, exclusive communities within the subdivision, namely Mirador and Escala. Many of the homes are custom built and close to the Barton Creek Resort and Club. The club offers tennis courts and four 18-hole championship golf courses. The fitness center provides residents with an indoor pool, jogging track, steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, massage and aromatherapy. The creek in which it is named for flows freely through the community. Views can vary from overlooking the hills, downtown or Barton Creek.

Rough Hollow

Located near Lake Travis, residents can enjoy the convenience of the proximity and access to water sports by boating, cruising, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing, diving or fishing, to name just a few! To take a break from the water, residents can take a hike on the easily accessible trails, grab a tennis racket or a golf club. A coffee bar and deli can be visited while members decide between eight golf courses.

Spanish Oaks

Adventure is an everyday event in this community and it couldn’t be any easier. Residents can create their own adventure and pursue it with the help of the Outdoor Pursuits team. Activities for each member of the family include a ladies’ poker night, Kids’ Dog Show and wine tasting. Convenience is an amenity and comes in the form of refrigerator stocking, dry cleaning, pet care, house sitting, unpacking services and transportation provided by the community. A five- acre fish camp stocked with trophy large mouth bass includes trails, hiking grounds and an overnight pavilion for camping out with the family.

The Hills of Lakeway (The Village of The Hills)

Residents looking to up their game can turn to PGA professionals at a golf clinic hosted by the Lakeway Golf Club. Of the four courses offered at the posh country club, two championship golf courses were designed by Jack Nicklaus, better known as “The Golden Bear,” and promises to be continuously challenging. Fine dining, swimming and a fitness center are among the amenities. The community prides itself on the choices residents can choose from, whether it be anything between a bridge or exercise group. Tennis players in the area have 18 outdoor courts and two indoor courts for year-round matches.

Lost Creek

The multigenerational community offers fabulous views and residents are guaranteed diversity within the neighborhood. Each house represents this in their varying designs and floor plans, with no two being alike. Home to walkers, runners and cyclists, nature trails provide a beautiful backdrop during their morning or afternoon routines. Located near the Greenbelt and Barton Creek, nature seems to be a few steps away. A fitness center, golf course, 16 tennis courts and three swimming pools are a few amenities in this unique neighborhood. Social activities include the Fall Festival, Spring Family Fun Day and a July 4th parade and party.

Rob Roy

Arguably among the best in terms of commute and views, this community is comprised of six neighborhoods. The scenic 227-acre Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve contains over two miles of hiking trails throughout grassland and woodland habitats. Nearby golf courses render hours of competition and Lake Austin can be enjoyed through sailing, waterskiing or fishing. Most homes are on estate-sized lots and include guest suites, outdoor living spaces and waterfalls in the backyard. Many overlook the Colorado River Basin, which winds through the limestone hills.

Woods of Westlake Heights

The community spans only seven blocks on four different streets, but provides a high quality of life to those who reside there. Shopping is considered an amenity high on the list in this community. With numerous stores to choose from out of the Westlake Plaza, Westlake Village and Westlake Center, residents in the nearby neighborhood may feel overwhelmed. Runners, cyclists or hikers can take advantage of the beautiful trails which provide a calming exercise experience throughout the community. Sport enthusiasts will never be bored with tennis courts and gold courses to choose from. Community swimming pools ensure residents keep cool and can relax in style.

Tarrytown

The prestigious neighborhood has attracted statewide and national celebrities with its incredible value and amenities. Homes range from 1920s cottages to modern homes and provide residents with a sanctuary to be proud of. The variety in sizes of the houses lure families in to enjoy dozens of amenities near their homes. Deep Eddy pool provides months of recreational swimming and the historic Laguna Gloria, located on Lake Austin, still holds art exhibitions. The Tarrytown Park and Reed Park offer a relaxing setting to enjoy Austin’s beautiful sunny days. Nearby is the Mayfield Reserve, a 22-acre nature preserve featuring a lily pond, deer and peacocks. The Lions Municipal Golf Course keep its golfers challenged, yet satisfied with their game of golf. Active parents in the area have organized, funded and coach football, soccer and baseball. Some of Austin’s most expensive real estate can be found here. Residents are deeply involved in the neighborhood group and protect their community by staying informed on several issues affecting the area. The community has the perks of a great location minus the quick pace of the city.

Travis Heights

Gen. W.H. Stacey, a former commander of the Texas National Guard and key developer of Travis Heights, ran streetcars of prospective buyers out to this neighborhood from the capitol in the early 1900s. The neighborhood’s success is due to various lot sizes and prices, not to mention its spectacular views. Homes range from vintage 1920s bungalows to modern. General Stacey incorporated deed restrictions against multifamily & commercial development into Travis Heights to further entice buyers into the area. At the time of Stacey’s death, 600 lots were sold and over 160 homes were built. The tree-lined neighborhood is located near the Blunn Creek Nature Preserve features 40 acres of woodland habitat in combination with streams. Scenic overlooks and a trail are of easy access to nearby residents. Norwood Estate Park, an off-leash dog park, spoils dogs with over 500 acres of land. The dogs are just as happy as their owners in this historic neighborhood. The community has been summed up into two words: beauty and convenience.