Relationship Banking
At Its Best
Lamar Sponsored
Senior of the month
Elizabeth Criswell
Resilience and Determination to Succeed
I have a passion for helping others, which drives my goal to become a pediatric nurse practitioner and make an impact in the world. My life experiences, with their ups and downs, have taught me resilience and the value of family and friends. I measure success by reflecting on my journey and have always had a strong drive to excel in everything I do.
LIFESTYLE
The Spirit of the Season is Upon Us
It seems that at this time of year, we are all trying to recreate the holiday magic we felt as children— whether through familiar scents, sounds, lights, or traditions. These memories often shape the moments we now share with our own families.
One of my favorite childhood moments is sitting in the living room, warmed by the fire, and watching the Charlie Brown special on TV with my dad.
There is real magic this time of year. We wanted to spread the love and share how our neighbors show up for one another. From a curated gift guide to support a local business to spotlighting the heroes of our community, there's something for everyone in this issue. While this time of year can be joyful, it can also be difficult for those facing loss or loneliness. Giving back happens in many ways, but let’s reach out to those in need with care, compassion, and love.
Wishing you peace, love, and a joyous holiday season!
Happy Holidays!
CRYSTAL HOBBS,
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Crystal Hobbs | crystal.hobbs@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kellie Krevosky | kellie.krevosky@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Michelle Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Savanna Romano
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
Savanna Romano
Teresa’s House is unlike any other community out there. The facility itself is not only luxurious, but safe and functional. The staff are what really set this community apart. They are experienced, well trained, and most importantly, truly care about their residents. My dad lives in one of the memory care homes and I could not be happier with the care he receives. It is hard to put into words how special this community is. I would suggest anyone considering placement for a loved one go visit Teresa’s House. You will see for yourself from the moment you step on campus how special it is.
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER
city scene
1: Billy Hughett, Corey Austin, Tom Larrabee, & Michele Larabee at Brews for Boobs. 2: The incredible one of a kind staff at The Rô on Oak. 3: Argyle residence soaking up the last rays of sunshine At The Table. 4: Nailed It Roofing supporting local runners by passing out much needed refreshments. 5: Blair, owner of Blair’s Ruff House feeding baby goats. 6: Ben Huso of Huso Construction speaking to business owners at the Weston in Southlake. 7: Editor Kellie Krevosky with her partner, Chris Harris, at the Bass Performance Hall.
NOLEN PEST
business monthly
Mosquito Hunters
Did you know that Mosquito Hunters do more than just prevent mosquitoes? They can address all kinds of insect and pest issues! Now that North Texas is cooling down, bugs are going to want to come inside. The best way to keep them out is to start prevention now!
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Premium Poolsmith
Just because the weather is cooler doesn't mean you should neglect your pool. Now, more than ever, it's important to maintain this feature of your home to prevent damage. The techs at Premium Poolsmith can manage the heavy lifting so you have a beautiful pool all year long.
D & L Farm and Home
Everything you need for a hobby farm right here in North Texas. D & L Farm and Home is a family-owned and operated supply store. They have serviced the area since 1988, even offering dog and cat food. But, this is not your average box store. Here, you'll find all the things you need to manage your barn, garden, lawn, home, and pets--even your livestock!
Shop Drop & Rent
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
WE SPOKE WITH SHOP DROP OWNER
JOHNNY JOHNSON ABOUT HIS BUSINESS AND FUTURE PLANS
“
“People want to do stuff for themselves and it feels good when you do a job and know that you did it yourself.”
Shop Drop LLC was born out of Johnny Johnson's desire to help others, specifically with their automotive needs. An avid DIY-er, Johnson wanted to give others the chance to feel the same accomplishment he does when completing a project.
Shop Drop is a small, local business but Johnson is ready to grow bigger and better.
“People want to do stuff for themselves and it feels good when you do a job and know that you did it yourself,” Johnson said about his business.
CONTINUED >
Johnson with his family who support everything he does with Shop Drop
Shop Drop is currently a home-based business with the help of Johnson's family. Since opening the mobile tool service, he has added home repair and lawn equipment to his menu. The goal is to make automotive and home repairs accessible to everyone. Even if you don’t know how to use the equipment, that’s no problem. Johnson provides numerous resources on his website that teach customers exactly how to use the tools they have rented. What’s more, renters don’t have to worry about permanent storage solutions. Delivering tools is only one facet of Johnson’s plans for Shop Drop. Down the road, he hopes to open a brick-andmortar location for the community. Here, renters will have the option to have equipment delivered to them or drive up to use items such as car lifts and more. He even plans to launch his version of Shop Class, reminiscent of the kinds of classes once taught in school.
Shop Drop LLC
To learn more about Shop Drop LLC or to rent equipment for your next DIY project, visit www.shopdroptx.com or contact Johnny Johnson directly at 940-441-3770
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HE
The holidays are a time of joy and gratitude. So many people work hard to give back through donations or community service, but what about those who give back to their community every single day? We’re talking about the heroes who wear capes in the form of scrubs, vests, and bunk gear. Our firefighters, nurses, police officers and EMTs work hard to ensure our neighborhoods are safe for everyone this time of year, including Santa Claus. Without them, there would not be Christmas which is why we wanted to take the time to shine a light on a few members who deserve some recognition.
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MEET THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO HELP MAKE CHRISTMAS HAPPEN
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
CHRISTINA LOYD SHELBY MEADOR
Police Officer Labor and Delivery Nurse
Local police officer Christina Loyd has been with her department for over a year. “I’ve wanted to be a police officer since I was in the eighth grade,” Loyd said about what drew her to this profession. Her career began as a correctional deputy from 2019-2022 before moving to Texas where she worked in dispatch before continuing her way to patrol. She loves her role as a police officer, but in a few years, she hopes to fulfill her goal of becoming a criminal investigator. During the holidays, the most important thing to Loyd is her family. Her favorite memory is playing bingo and other games with her family on Christmas Eve.
“I love what I do,” Shelby Meador, a labor and delivery nurse, explained. “I’m there for people on the best days of their life and sometimes the worst days.” Meador has been a nurse for seven years but her love for the medical field has been a longstanding passion. The choice to enter labor and delivery came after hearing all kinds of stories from a family friend. Meador was also present for many hospital visits after her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. The two experiences helped shape her perspective on how she could best serve her community. Her goal now is to continue doing what she loves in the hospital that she loves. Even if that means celebrating the holidays on random days–as long as she is surrounded by her family, she’s happy.
SAM JOHNSON JOSH ESQUIVEL
Firefighter Firefighter
Sam Johnson joined the local fire department in 2018. He became a firefighter in 2005 right out of high school, encouraged by his father who helped him decide between fire service or the military. He’s currently a Captain of his department as well as the Association President. While he loves his work in the field, he knows that there is more that he can do behind the scenes. That’s why he plans to continue growing with his department but has plans for running for a local office one day soon. “I can make a big difference for the fire service by being in an elected position in the future,” he said about his newfound passion for politics. Though he isn’t big on the holidays, personally, Johnson does enjoy making sure that Santa stays on the Christmas truck!
Why did Josh Esquivel become a firefighter? To make his children proud of him. Esquivel had been working in hotels before making the professional switch. He explained that he’s always maintained a sense of attitude and to this day still wants to provide that service to his community. A big part of being able to do that includes continued education. Esquivel said that he is invested in his department and that whatever it takes to grow it, and his community, he will do. When asked what his favorite holiday tradition was, Esquivel had two very distinct answers. “Family and tamales,” he laughed. For Esquivel, family is everything. Two of his sons plan to follow in his footsteps and become firefighters as well. As far as he is concerned, that is the greatest gift of all
TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH Your Family
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS IN DENTON ARE HELPING TO CREATE LASTING MEMORIES
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
With a focus on personalized service, Foerster Travel recently opened a new office in Denton where Destination Specialists Terri McNutt and Jerrod Pickering work together to create customized experiences for fellow travelers. Thanks to their insider knowledge, and network of resources for easy booking and discounted rates, they make planning and vacationing simple, exciting, and fun.
Over the last few years, Terri has seen an increase in family and multi-generational travel. In a Family Travel Association survey, she read that 81% of parents plan to vacation with their children while 50% said they will go with grandparents. As a former teacher, she finds this very exciting. “Some of the benefits doctors and parents are noticing with family travel include helping children with social skills and adaptability that they missed developing during Covid,” she shared.
For those planning to travel next year, Jerrod has a few tips. “Be realistic with the budget and timetable, be flexible, and to take advantage of the big discounts, consider group packages.” Enjoy group rates by creating a travel group with friends, neighbors, or family, or through group specials run through the agency.
Experiencing new cultures and adventures together builds a lifetime of memories. To give the gift of experiences, Terri and Jerrod offer gift certificates and love creating fun ways to reveal surprise destinations to recipients.
For more information, visit dallas.foerstertravel.com and follow the DFW Foerster Facebook page. Contact Terri directly at 817-946-0092 or terri@foerstertravel.com or contact Jerrod directly at 806-241-8007 or jerrod@foestertravel.com.
Strengthen Family Bonds
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY
SAVANNA ROMANO
Give the Gift of Nasr
The holidays are here and if you haven’t found the perfect gift for your loved ones, let the experts at Nasr Jewelers help. They have thousands of items to choose from at their Denton location. Your husband will love a luxury watch or a sterling silver chain necklace. Gentlemen, for your wives, mothers, or sisters, a pair of drop earrings with stunning ruby clusters will go a long, long way. Or choose a matching set of earrings, a ring, and a necklace to show your appreciation. It doesn’t matter who you are shopping for, the associates at Nasr can guide you to the best option for everyone on your Christmas list.
Jewelry is a simple, yet powerful, gift to give any loved one this holiday season
This delicious ring from Le Vian features a 6 carat Aquaprase set in 14k Strawberry Gold, surrounded by 1/8 cts Chocolate Diamonds and 1/10 cts Nude Diamonds. Give mom a beautiful Mother of Pearl pendant set in a yellow gold plated pendant with a Rhodium cable chain. Nothing says “I love you” like 18 karat yellow gold earrings with 1.7 carat ruby clusters accented with 1.05 total carat weight of diamonds. Show how much you love her with the Uliana 14K Yellow Gold Wide Band Diamond Engagement Ring. Wow anyone with the 24-inch Sterling Silver Italian Chain Rhodium-Plated Oval Curb Chain Necklace.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
redecorating, repairs, and enhancing the overall look—helps your property stand out. According to the National Association of Realtors, staging boosts buyer appeal, increases sale price, and shortens market time. Whether DIY or professional, staging makes a lasting impact. The most important tip is Step #1: Declutter and Depersonalize.
DECEMBER 7TH
Argyle Community Christmas Festival
Argyle United Methodist Church | 4:00 PM
The annual, for all-ages community event, is back! At the Argyle United Methodist Church, the whole family can hear some great music, enjoy great food, and play some fun activities. Oh, and you'll get to meet Santa Claus himself!
DECEMBER 13TH
Denton Toys for Tots Drive - Cowboy Christmas
Golden Triangle Mall (the OLD Macy's) | 11:00 AM
Come see Santa and the Denton Fire Department at the Great Denton Wise County Association "Cowboy Christmas"! This special event is a toy drive, so don't forget your new, unwrapped gifts to help support the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program!
DECEMBER 14TH
2024 Holidays at Hilltop
Hilltop Truck Park | 4:00 PM
Are you ready to meet Santa? Head out to the Hilltop Truck Park for their end-of-year event. This holiday-themed party is great for the whole family with plenty of food, fun, and cheer!
Our family’s first experience working with Juline and her team was when we remodeled our home’s primary bathroom The project went very smoothly and the crew was amazing. We were so happy with the final result, the following year we asked her to return to update our first floor This included another bathroom remodel, new flooring and a new fireplace. Again, we were thrilled with the results We just completed our third project with Juline I would highly recommend Juline and her crew without reserve. - Melissa Reid
