From the Editor | June & July 2025
It’s summertime in Central Texas!
Despite needing a solid supply of SPF 50, Central Texas is a great place to live in the summer. There are potlucks, parades, festivals, water parks and more fun than every other season combined. This issue of Tex Appeal is all about fun things to do in the summer in Central Texas.
Shane and Hunter Steele, owners of Phantom Training Center, are featured on the cover. The father and son duo provide scuba diving instruction right here in Central Texas. Not only that, but they are currently getting certified to train scuba to people with disabilities. Read all about their story here.
While road tripping across Texas this summer, maybe add a winery road trip to your itinerary. Rachel Strickland gives us a little breakdown of some of the best wineries to visit along the way.
You can also add a few waterfalls, to your road trip, with many beautiful falls within an hour or two of the area and one only accessible by boat. Read all about the waterfalls here.
Summers are synonymous with baseball. The smell of the classic hot dog, the crack of the bat and witnessing America’s favorite pastime in person with Texas’ most famous baseball team — yes, the Texas Rangers are featured here. Find out how to experience the best day at Globe Life Field — from how early to arrive, to where to sit, and what things you need to experience for yourself.
Tonya Warren gives us a glimpse at the lives of some of our community leaders. They share how their first summer jobs helped shape their lives. Hard work, time-management skills and budgeting were all important lessons they learned during those first jobs.
Also in this issue, Amy Rognlie reveals some tricks for getting rid of those pesky garden weeds with all-natural ingredients. There’s no need to waste money on expensive ingredients that could be harmful to you, your garden or even your pets.
We also learn about Woods and Water Outdoor Ministries, a Christian ministry that helps connect people who enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, archery, shooting and outdoor motorsports to God. Read about the outreach ministry here.
Finally, we interviewed up-and-coming country singer Holly Tucker, who was born and raised right here in Central Texas. Find out how her Christian upbringing influences her music here.
We hope you enjoy the summer issue of Tex Appeal. It’s always fun finding out about the unique people and organizations in the area. Remember, if you have any suggestions for upcoming stories, please email me at editor@texappealmag.com.
Brandy Cruz
Tex Appeal editor
