On June 22nd at 12pm my 8-year-old daughter was aggressively approached by a father after leaving a…read moreYoung Rembrandts summer art class being provided by Pflugerville Parks and Recreation. At no time was my husband or I notified of an incident occurring at the facility or during art class. Rob McDonald and Whitney Seaton both employees of the Rec facility assumed I was aware of the situation solely based on speculation that my aunt who was caring for my daughter while I was away on business had been able to get a hold of me. The first time I heard from any party was when Rob McDonald called my cell phone to tell me the outcome or determination for my daughter's enrollment in the class. Rob called and stated my daughter could no longer attend art class at their facility. Rob and Whitney did not call us as parents to inform us of the incident or to tell us that you all would need to speak to all parties involved like my daughter or the other party BEFORE coming to a decision. They spoke to the other party ONLY and decided based on that one party. Due to the other party involved being Caucasian and us being minorities this does make the situation feel race related. It does cause my husband and I to feel like there are grounds for a civil suit for discrimination. Not only did you all reprimand my daughter, but you all allowed a white entitled father to also reprimand her. You all failed my daughter and did not keep her safe. Pflugerville Parks and Recreation Dept as a whole needs new procedures and policies in place to protect other children of color from discrimination like what my daughter was subjected to. You all are at fault for how this situation was handled. Young Rembrandts and the Pflugerville Parks and Recreation facility decided based on a "she said" scenario without communicating with all parties involved and doing an actual investigation. Our daughter was traumatized and terrified by the father that approached her. Rob and Whitney continue to word things like you aren't privy to what occurred at the facility entrance and framing things as if he approached my aunt and daughter. Please do not minimize or attempt to downplay what that father did. He walked up to my 8-year-old black daughter, and he said, "Did we have a problem today?" My then terrified 8-year-old responded to him and began to explain herself. This is a situation that no child should ever find themselves in. I will not stand for any injustices. I do not recommend this facility if you are a minority.

I am definitely a fan! I think this is one of those places that helps define a community. You walk…read moreinto the Rec Center at any given time and and you'll see retirees mingling, moms walking the track with their babies, young people playing basketball ... It's definitely an aging facility that doesn't boast the latest in exercise equipment, but we have those places around. Here's what I love: $2/hour child care, and it's GOOD -- people who seem to love kids are taking care of them. $1 walking track -- you can't beat that for a walking alternative when it's too hot, cold or rainy. Finally, great programming -- the swim lessons at Gilleland Creek, gymnastics for kids -- again, taught by kind, loving and knowledgable instructors. I really feel like this is a special gem that gives me the warm "pfuzzies" about Pflugerville! :)

For the past 3 years, the Westwood Country Club has been host to the ATX Open, a 250 level WTA…read moreprofessional women's tennis tournament here in Austin, Texas. I decided to make a visit for 2025 to see what it's all about. Let me run down some details... For a 250 level WTA tennis tournament, the player field was full of well known contenders. This year they had Jessica Pegula (consistent Top 10 player), Petra Kvitova (2x Wimbledon champion), Ajla Tomljanovic (famously defeated Serena Williams), Peyton Sterns (hometown hero from the University of Texas) and other top 100 players competing. I attended for 4 days including 2 days of qualifying rounds and the first 2 days of the main draw. Unfortunately the first Saturday of qualifying was rained out so they packed a full day of doubleheaders onto Sunday with matches lasting well into the evening. Then I was surprised by how light the schedule was for Monday, but then returning Tuesday had all the big names and players back on the courts for my final day. The Westwood Country Club uses 3 courts for competition. The Stadium, Grandstand and Court 11. Then there were Practice Courts 1, 3, 4, 5 and 12. The Stadium is beautiful. It's built beside a rustic brick player clubhouse. It exudes old fashioned charm. Capacity is 1700 with spectators having their own seat backs. There were no bleacher style benches. Players enter the Stadium coming from the Food Court area in the back. When matches are completed, players return towards the Food Court and it's a good opportunity for pictures and autographs. The Grandstand is situated next to the Stadium and offers 6 - 7 rows to accommodate fans. You can stand and watch the action near the Cadillac Club venue where there's plenty of shade blocking the sun from trees stretching over the court. Btw...the Cadillac Club is a drink/food venue to socialize while watching the Grandstand action up close. Court 11 was confusing. It's located opposite the Grandstand. To reach Court 11, you walk up a hill and underneath the stadium stands to get there. But, there are no seats for watching at Court 11. You must stay on your feet, but the closeups of the tennis were unmatched. And...Court 12 is connected to Court 11. Practice Courts 1, 3, 4, 5 aren't too accessible to the fans (imo). They're pretty covered up with windscreens and I found it difficult to judge who was practicing on them. There were a few electronic monitors scattered around the grounds mentioning which players would be practicing on which courts and at what times. That was helpful but the problem again was that it was hard to watch players practicing due to the sharply tinted windscreens. It was $10 entrance fee for each day of Saturday and Sunday Qualifying Rounds. It was $20 entrance fee for Monday and Tuesday of the Main Draw rounds. I purchased tickets on my phone at the tournament's website...atxopen.com. I then added the tickets to Apple Wallet. Unfortunately, they don't have an App yet for the ATX Open. I'm believe that will change in future editions. Parking for Qualifying was at the HHSC Winters Building - 701 W 51st St, Austin. Parking here was free of charge. It's then a 10 minute shuttle bus ride over to the Westwood Country Club. Starting on Monday for the Main Draw, spectators parked at Camp Mabry (a military base) for $10 each day. Camp Mabry is located at 2200 W 35th St, Austin. It's then a 5 minute shuttle bus ride from Camp Mabry. You can also buy tickets for parking at atxopen.com. Some last extras.....during different intervals throughout the day, there were player Q&A's and autograph sessions for the fan experience. The Food Court area was composed of 4 - 5 Food Trucks. Behind the Grandstand was the Gift Shop. Prices for merchandise were typically high as they are now for all tennis tournaments. I paid $40 for an ATX Open tennis t-shirt. Hats and souvenir towels were $40 as well. Overall, I enjoyed the ATX Open and it's a good warmup tourney before the start of the Sunshine Double (Indian Wells and Miami). The quiet surroundings around the grounds made it feel like an intimate setting for fans. I was able to get up close to some of my favorite players which was rewarding. In the end, I think the Westwood Country Club is a fine venue for hosting a WTA 250 level tennis tournament. Although this was just the 3rd edition of the tourney, I anticipate it'll remain here in Austin for years to come.

Came out here for the ATX Open. Lovely venue to watch tennis. Drink prices were pretty outrageous,…read morebut there were food trucks that were semi reasonable, although some of the snack foods were already running out fairly early. The bathroom situation isn't ideal for large crowds so be prepared to wait in line. But taking an Uber/Lyft in and out was fairly easy, and can be an inexpensive way to watch some professional tennis!

I didn't know what to expect from this place. Some science centers are kids-only affairs (despite…read morenot being billed as such) while others have more to offer visitors of all ages. Fortunately, the Austin Nature & Science Center ended up falling in the latter category. The main building houses an assortment of bones, shells, and rocks (as well as an axolotl tank) and another building is home to various reptiles. Outside areas include a dino pit (where kids can dig for fossils) and several animal enclosures. What makes the latter unique is that the animals are rehab/rescue cases. They include everything from a bobcat to a porcupine to a 34-year-old one-eyed owl (!!) and more. Granted, Austin Nature & Science Center does offer more for a younger crowd, and it isn't particularly easy to get to by bus, but it's hard to argue with a chance to take in flora and fauna for free.

Great FREE option in Austin for kids!…read more One of the best parts is you can see an axolotl (two, actually) in their visitor center building. Then you can head over to the birds of prey, the reptile/fish building, and the animal enclosures. There's also a little lake and a large sand pit (dino dig). There's a cool room in the visitor center that has all sorts of nature items (bones, dead bugs, shells, rocks, etc.). You can bring in your own stuff to trade! Is it a huge amount of things to do/see? No but for a free attraction, it's pretty great. Parking is across the street -- lot is shared with Zilker Park and all the nearby attractions so it can get busy.

Out-of-towner here, and I came to play! I loved this place so much. From the vibe and the people to…read morethe paddles, everything about this spot is awesome for pickleballers. I visited last month on a recommendation from my husband, who follows the pickleball community online. When I first checked the website to reserve an open play spot, it was a little confusing: Level 1: Beginners (newbies and advanced beginners); there aren't many options for these sessions in the morning. Level 2: 3.0 and up (intermediate to advanced). This is the level my husband and I played, and we were right on par with the other players. Level 3: The advanced-elite level. Overall, we had fun from check-in to check-out and even walked away with some great T-shirt swag. I was so happy I didn't have to pack my own paddle since I could rent a Selkirk Broomstick Elongated there.

Don't get me wrong, I like Pickle Ranch. And I'm no expert in pickleball…read more Pros: Music is fun and lively. Plenty of courts to go around. Seems consistently clean and amenities are fine. Cons: Maybe not so much cons, I just think APR has become a bit stagnant compared to East Side Paddle Club. ESPC is cheaper, with more courts, and just as many events, clinics, and open plays. ESPC also has family plan, which is very nice on the wallet. Level of play seems more challenging at ESPC compared to APR, and just generally more buzz. Still very solid place to pay, I just think they need to be more innovative or come down in price.

This City of Austin entertainment complex is located just down the street from where I live and is…read morein fact on the same street. There's so much fun stuff to do like bowling (16 lanes) and roller skating at the indoor roller rink. There's food court, movie theatre and arcade too. There are rooms for parties, events, and more. I've attended a few events at this complex. It's clean and well-maintained and an important space for kids and families. It started as a safe space for kids. Wonderful part of our neighborhood.

This place is a lifeline in the East Austin community. Fun arcade games and full size bowling…read morealley. Our church hosted a party and the staff was nice and security was appropriate and appreciated. Kids had a blast skating and playing!

This is a really nice recreational center! I go here for zumba classes and everyone working here…read moreseems friendly. I always see tons of kiddos around. They have an outdoor playground, a pool in the back and a basketball court. The restrooms are okay, they need better lighting in my opinion. But everytime I see a happy kid, it makes me happy too! I love that rec centers are available for all ages and everyone is welcome. They have tons of events posted around. Definitely worth stopping by!

If you care about the wellbeing of your child or children stay clear of this gym. If you advocate…read morefor your child, stay clear of this gym. If you want your children spending long periods of time in an unhealthy training environment with a head coach "god complex" ego, then look no further.  I cannot speak for Crenshaws after school program, camps, or palestra program, but if you're looking for an Optional or Compulsories training program here's my honest review.  We first started noticing issues with the constant change in coaching staff. In the last three years we've seen 2-3 coach changes. The latest newest edition being the worst. They bark orders at the girls and offer put downs when there is no delivery. My daughter felt this coaching style began to rub off on the other coaches. We were met with many meltdowns after training due to this specific coach. Hysterical crying and shaking. If you directed concerns to the head coach your child would be blamed for bringing this response on. We noticed over our tenor here that our daughter was scared and intimidated to communicate. Not to us as parents but to the coaching staff. She feared retaliation from her coaches. If she was interested in attending a gymnastics college summer camp with her peers, they would all be terrified to to mention it due to how the coaches would respond. Of course, you'd think attending a college gymnastics camp would be encouraged - it's not. If my daughter suffered an injury, she did not want to mention it to her coaches, scared of how they would treat her or push her to train on the pain. If my child was running late to practice, she was terrified to communicate her occurrence. This all goes against USAG Safe Sport Policy.  This gym says "family" is their mantra but that's a lie. It's the head coach's idea of family. He feels he owns your kids once they join the team. He acts as their father, at least what he thinks is a father. It's by far the unhealthiest part of this facility. He cancels parents and does not allow parents inside the gym. There are no windows to observe your children, there are no seats or seating within the gymnasium that welcome parents to watch practice to ensure your child's safety. You're told you're welcome to pull up a chair when you first join but this is not true. Most parents when we ask questions are met with snarky comments, attitude, pettiness, unprofessional responses, or no response at all. This is no way to conduct business. Your kids are bred to have their own communication with the coach that does not pertain to you. This means if your kid suffers from anxiety or depression, it will only worsen because the head coach does not want you as an adult to protect the child and speak adult to adult. Coach to parent. I'm all for children learning to communicate and advocate for themselves in a healthy manner but this is not that.  He's most comfortable texting your youth or adolescents. He rather hear from your kid how they cannot attend practice because you as a parent have a conflict, planned a family vacation, or other plans etc, so he can punish your child for your decisions or hold them accountable for something that does not pertain to them. This is just a toxic form of control. Over our time here we met with the head coach,Adam Miller, numerous times to discuss our concerns or issues as concerned parents. Each discussion showed more and more how he does not like to take ownership for his wrong doings. He would constantly point fingers at the children. During each discussion instead of being met with concern or willingness to change, we were met with communication that said, "Maybe this isn't the gym for you all". We were always told in so little words to just get out and our daughter was indispensable. This is not a family.  Our daughter was always pulled to the side and addressed about various things without our knowledge. She's 14 and unable to comprehend all conversations yet the coaching staff assumed or assumes these young gymnasts are adults, they're not. Every conversation she had without an adult present bred toxicity. She was being bullied, coerced, and always accused of wrongdoing. She was left feeling isolated and alone. All parts of their toxic control they like to flex.  In the end, I had to ask my daughter if this were a relationship would you stay? She told me no. I asked why, and she said because she's constantly manipulated, always accused that everything is her fault, and voiceless.  Overall, the head coach is unwilling to welcome healthy change. He rather continue with the same traditions that have led to years of gymnastics, toxic culture and adolescent abuse.  If you want to feel targeted and enjoy being disrespected, this is a place for you.  I would not recommend this gym to anyone.

Great classes water aerobics my favorite friendly staff. Children's programs are excellent.read more

Excellent neighborhood park, with an impressive amount of amenities, especially for its size!…read moreThere's a great playground area that even has a gaga ball pit (not many of these around in public spaces), and of course swings, slides, and playscapes to climb and balance on with soft landing spots. There's also a tennis court, a basketball court, and a nice little swimming pool. There's decent access to Little Walnut Creek behind the basketball and tennis courts, but make sure you watch for poison ivy. There's shady picnic benches and bbq grills throughout the park, and a nice gazebo area for groups. There's lots of open field space for frisbee, or anything else that requires a big open space. There's sweet 0.4-mile hike/bike trail loop. Lots of awesome big trees, native plants, a rain garden by the basketball court, butterflies and other pollinators, and probably an unexpected amount of wildlife. I've seen several birds (hawks, small herons on the creek), a bunch of different lizards, and of course squirrels. It's an excellent place in the University Hills neighborhood to get some outdoor time!

I love this park! It's right by my house, so I may be somewhat bias, but I'm still taking off a…read morestar for sheer lack of size alone, it has plenty of length, but not much girth... Dottie Jordan isn't nearly as well endowed as say, Zilker, but the dimensions that it does have are fully utilized. There's a large playscape for the bigger kids to play on, and a little playscape for the smaller kids. There's a nice swimming pool to cool off in during the summer, complete with lifeguards, but it isn't open year-round. There's a small rec/community center on sight too, but what actually goes on in there is only speculation, since I've never been in that building... The ammenities also include multiple picnic tables, some covered seating, and some built-in barbecue grills. There's also a creek that snakes around the perimeter of the park where my kids love to go fossil hunting, and just on the inner edge of the creek there is a little walking/ jogging trail. I've been to this park many many times, but never checked in until my kids and I met Keri B. here to plant trees for an event she posted on Yelp!, called "Ready, Set, Plant!". If you live near this park and haven't been to it yet then I suggest you take your kids there right away.