Relationship Banking
At Its Best Lamar Sponsored Student of the month
Sydney Griffin
Discipline and Mental Strength
My drive is fueled by hard work, determination, and perseverance. Having played softball since I was 7, the strong bond I share with my teammates is a constant source of motivation. I’ll be playing college softball next year while pursuing a degree in Kinesiology, with hopes of working with children, potentially in orthopedics.
Showing the Love—Locally!
It's February which means it's all about the love!
The question I struggle with is, how do I show my friends, family, and community that I love them? Do I send a generic card, do I plan a date night, or should I book services with a local business? The options can be overwhelming, but showing that we care is the most important thing.
In this issue, we’re celebrating all the ways to “love local.” That means supporting your neigh borhood contractor, pest control, and even the family law firm—and also cherishing what’s near: the people under your roof and in your community. One of my favorite memories of February and Valentine's Day was putting together cards with my daughter for her class. It was such a special moment that I'll never forget.
As we begin to look ahead to the warmer weather of spring, let’s remember the power of coming together. Month after month, the stories in these pages remind us of the strength and beauty in connection.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives. We hope these pages inspire you to love it even more.
Happy February!
CRYSTAL HOBBS, PUBLISHER @NORTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Crystal Hobbs | crystal.hobbs@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kellie Krevosky | kellie.krevosky@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michelle Parnell, Elizabeth West
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Savanna Romano
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
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Pesky Pest Prevention
Daniel Ostrow of Mosquito Hunters
Family First
Brian Tackett of Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant
city scene
1-14: The Northlake firefighters are always ready. Officers from stations 511, 513, and 514 came together for an intensive day of training that tested their ability to work together as well as their mental and physical fortitude. It was a day full of challenges, laughter, and perseverance. What better way to celebrate loving our local community than by highlighting the men and women who sacrifice their lives for us? We are so grateful for the work that they do day in and day out.
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Staying ahead of the curve in terms of technology and industry trends offering the best possible solutions
Comfortable & safe environment for clients
Highly trained professionals
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business monthly
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Redeemed Life Counseling
With a new year comes new goals. The team at Redeemed Life Counseling understands that even the best of relationships can require additional support. Improving your relationships can be achieved with the help of a counselor who understands the challenges you are facing. This is not a place to simply resolve arguments--it's a chance to build bridges and strengthen the bonds between you and your partner. Visit redeemedlifecounseling.com to learn more about their services.
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The Hive
The Hive offers an updated version of Mother's Day Out with drop-in ready services led by 2 registered nurses, Alysha Clarke and Jennifer Lankford. They provide flexible drop-in schedules to help busy moms and parents as well as affordable rates for any budget. Infants, toddlers, and children up to the age of 10 are welcome at The Hive. Visit the next open house to learn more about their services and meet the staff!
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By the Books
Small business accounting has never been easier than with By the Books. Since 2011, Sara Wolfe and her team have worked hard to provide affordable financial services. The team's goal is to give small businesses a clear financial picture based on accurate and up-to-date bookkeeping. They believe that reliable financial analysis is the building block of any small business. Head to bythebooks.biz to read more about their services.
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ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON
BY JANIE JONES
DIY VALENTINES
Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home
The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.
1. Arts
Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.
2.Sweets
A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.
3.Sentiments
Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.
ARTS SWEETS SENTIMENTS
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PESKY PEST Prevention
Daniel Ostrow of Mosquito Hunters offers advice for those wanting to avoid pests this spring
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH WEST | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
Winter will be behind us in just a few short weeks, so it’s time to start looking ahead to warmer months and longer days. Unfortunately, the change in season also brings about a transition in pest activity. While colder months see roaches and rodents flocking indoors, warmer months bring a resurgence of mosquitos and fire ants. As you begin reviving your patios, porches, and other outdoor spaces, now is the time to consider taking preventive measures against pesky outdoor pests that can put a damper on springtime festivities.
When is the best time to begin pest prevention? “The earlier, the better,” says Daniel Ostrow, owner of Mosquito Hunters. Luckily, Mosquito Hunters offers full-service pest control year-round for residential and commercial locations. February and early March are the perfect times to book appointments and get ahead of outdoor pest control. Preemptive spray treatments in high-activity areas can prevent breeding which could result in trouble later in the season. Most spray treatments activate when wet, so Daniel recommends having this treatment done before the springtime rains begin, giving your outdoor spaces a baseline level of defense.
However, Daniel explains, “For best results, you’re going to want to have several treatments in place.” This can look like installing mosquito stations at the edges of your yard which can help intercept activity that might be coming from elsewhere. These stations create controlled breeding environments that attract females so they lay their eggs there and in the process trap and kill not only the adults but the eggs as well. Smart misting stations around hardscape areas like pools and patios can also limit exposure to outdoor insect annoyances by creating an invisible barrier to repel unwanted insects. Establishing a full-scope treatment approach like those mentioned above is the best way to keep your yard enjoyable well into peak outdoor pest season.
To learn more about how you can keep your outdoor activities safe and enjoyable all season long, head over to Mosquito Hunters website https://mosquitohunters.com/lewisville-tx/ or give them a call at 972-876-7084.
Family
First
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
Brian Tackett of Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant spoke about the various ways the firm ‘loves local’
Whether you are new to the area, or you’ve been here for a while, you have likely heard of the family law firm, Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant. They are a community fixture with some incredible attorneys on their staff. Even if you never require their services, having a group like theirs in your corner is a blessing. It’s no secret that the firm is a community favorite, but have you ever wondered how they show their love to everyone? We spoke with one of the partners Brian Tackett, to learn more about how Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant ‘love local’.
Tackett is not simply one of the several lawyers on the team, he is the head of the family law section of the firm. Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant operate out of three offices in the area, the Denton office being their flagship location. For the past 40 years, they have provided unmatched family law services to the community. The firm successfully grew to what it is today with dozens of attorneys all focused on the same goal: to provide expert, quality legal services to those in need.
One thing that Tackett and the rest of the Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant firms are open about is the pride they have in their work. “We are family law attorneys, and we have the unique opportunity to make lives better during a difficult time,” Tackett said about their services. Family law often has negative connotations, but this team is working to break those preconceived notions. Tackett and others on the team often help or meet with those who are struggling with divorce, family services, or loss, all of which can be extremely hard or painful experiences.
Serving their community through family law services is only one part of how the firm gives back to their city. When asked about a memorable moment of being charitable, Tackett had one specific, powerful example. The law firm was no different when most of the world shut down in 2020. The firm closed its doors for a few weeks while attorneys worked from home. Though they weren’t closed for long, they did do their best to observe many of the new regulations which impacted a favorite pastime for many of the lawyers–lunch. Tackett explained that they would order food for twenty to thirty people from local restaurants he knew were struggling to stay afloat during that time.
“BEING CHARITABLE MEANS, WE CAN CHOOSE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ORGANIZATIONS THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO US,”
What stood out to him the most was the response he would receive from those business owners. He explained that hearing their firsthand feedback provided a different perspective on the meaning of being charitable. Unlike writing a check or making a donation, receiving direct responses offers a more personal connection. The whole experience, Tackett found, was a true testament to the power of loving local.
Along with Tackett, the firm has twelve other attorneys, all of whom are involved in organizations with charitable components. As a family law firm, giving back to the community is not only important to the company; it’s essential. The team has participated in back-to-school drives, put together love packs for National Love Our Children Day, and more.
Thanksgiving of 2024, they were proud to be sponsors for the Denton County Bar Association’s event for National Adoption Day, a day dedicated to helping finalize the paperwork for the adoption of children. Tackett is grateful for the opportunity to provide his services to help families, especially during the holidays. No matter what, he and the team are just as excited to be involved with the event again next year.
Another reason the firm values community involvement is to strengthen and maintain relationships. Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant pride themselves on connecting and networking with several businesses in the community. Being charitable offers a chance to continue developing those relationships while also participating in a worthy cause.
Perhaps one of the best reasons that Tackett finds with having a platform like Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant is the opportunity to choose which organizations to participate in. “Being charitable means, we can choose to participate in the organizations that are important to us,” Tackett said, and for him, that means choosing programs that are family and kid-oriented. Whereas others at the firm might choose something else to donate their time or money to. Regardless, reaching out and being involved in the community is imperative to the firm.
It’s not hard to see why Hayes, Berry, White, and Vanzant are so loved by the community. This is a local institution that represents comfort and safety, no matter why or how you have heard of them.
To learn more about the law firm, visit their website at https://www.hbwvlaw.com/ or give them a call at 940-230-2386.
Locally Sourced Services
For general contracting services, Ben Huso of Huso Construction is a fantastic local resource
Ben Huso, of Huso Construction, is always happy to take on a new job. Whether he’s working on a home improvement project or developing a new commercial space, he and his team are happy to help. What’s more, they know that communication equals success. That’s why when the owners of J. Merrill Cigar Lounge needed a new general contractor they turned to Ben.
Ben met the current owners of J. Merrill Cigar Lounge in Roanoke and listened to their concerns. They were fed up with the way their current contractor was treating them and the lack of communication coupled with feelings of not being heard had taken its toll.
That’s why he chooses to do things differently with Huso Construction. So what can you expect when working with Ben? Ben prides himself on being personable, not pushy, with his opinions or suggestions. It’s very easy to talk with him and the longer you do, the more you realize he stands by his claims of providing quality, efficient, and timely services. Communication is essential in his world which is why he keeps those lines open, offering frequent updates to clients.
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
“I’m not giving a high-pressure sales pitch,” Ben explained. “I try to hear their ideas and make them come to life.”
Ben offers options allowing clients to get everything they want while staying within budget and on time. He does his best to customize solutions and get them as specific as possible to reach a client’s goals.
It’s kind of crazy to realize that this latest project all began at a networking event. Opportunities like this are why Ben continues to put himself and his business out there. Not only does he frequent networking events but he’s a sponsor for many projects. You’ve likely seen his name featured at Byron Nelson football games in the last year. Ben has also had the pleasure of sponsoring groups such as the Children’s Charity, the Dallas Margarita Society Christmas Gala, and more.
“When I’m talking to people, especially clients, I try to talk to them as if they were family or a friend,” Ben explained. “They don’t get the runaround with me.”
And the more business he can bring in, the more he’ll be able to provide for his community. For example, he’s about to work with Habitat for Humanity to begin a new house in Justin. He’ll be helping to build and put up the frame of the house. This is one of the many ways in which he’s able to give back to the community the best way he knows how.
Huso Construction is a local general contracting company that provides services for residential and commercial needs. They can tackle everything from concrete to roofing to interior remodeling and exterior remodeling. As Ben loves to say, “Ask me how to elevate your vision with Huso precision.”
To learn more about Huso Construction or to request services for yourself, visit husoconstruction.com or give Ben a call directly at 682-587-9612.
Jennifer M.
INSURING the Love
KAY BRASWELL OF KAY BRASWELL INSURANCE LOVES HER COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
On a daily basis, Kay Braswell lives out a multi-generational passion to support and protect the people and businesses of the Northlake and Pecan Square communities. Like her mother before her, Kay works in the insurance industry where she helps clients prepare for tough situations by making sure that they are financially covered in case of a loss.
In 2017, after years of working with other agents in the industry, Kay founded the Kay Braswell Insurance Group. She now works alongside her daughter, Kelsey Braswell-Mosier, assisting clients with home, auto, life, and health insurance as well as commercial insurance.
“Although it is required by the state and mortgage companies to have auto and home insurance, it is important to have appropriate coverage because if something happens, it can be minor, but it can also be devastating,” explained Kay. “I also encourage people to have life insurance as well. Because for me, I want to make sure I have plenty of life insurance so that if something happens to me, my family is taken care of.”
As an independent insurance broker, Kay works to connect clients with the best insurance companies and plans for their unique situations. “As a broker, I work with a lot of different insurance companies like Geico, Progressive, Safeco, and Travelers,” she shared. “Basically, I do the shopping for my clients. I like getting to know them and doing what I can to find the best rates and options for them. I remember what it was like being a single mom and what a challenge it was to find the best rates for everybody. So, it makes me feel good when I can do that for my clients.”
CONTINUED >
In a time when so many transactions have moved online, having a local insurance agent keeps the human connection. This translates into personalized service and provides clients with a knowledgeable advocate when navigating policies and claims with insurance companies.
“Our office is a family and community atmosphere instead of just being somebody on the other end of the phone,” said Kay. “You can always come in the front door and have somebody to talk to. We are able to be your liaison with the companies as well as find out what is going on with claims. The customer service we offer is taking care of whatever our clients need whenever they need it and making sure everything is done correctly and ethically, which is important to us.”
building a network of small businesses and helping those businesses gain traction in the community.
“I wanted to help businesses in our area, so I created a Northlake Commons New Businesses page on Facebook called Northlake Commons PLUS -- New Businesses PLUS. It now has over 2,200 followers,” she shared. “The page is set up so that businesses in Northlake Commons, or even in the general Northlake area, are able to go on there, advertise, and hopefully bring in more business.”
“The page is set up so that businesses in Northlake Commons, or even in the general Northlake area, are able to go on there, advertise, and hopefully bring in more business.”
Being a local small business owner, Kay also maintains deep connections with the community through her office’s participation in and promotion of, community events such as the Northlake Commons Halloween and Christmas community celebrations and pop-up events. She also enjoys
Kay’s passion for the community and her family shines through as she continually creates and builds relationships with the people around her. Whether through hosting events, handing out treats at her office, or joyfully watching her daughter and granddaughter greet clients as they walk in the door, Kay’s mission to care for and protect others shines through.
For more information about Kay Braswell Insurance Group, visit kaybraswell.com, call 817-422-0351, or stop by the office located at 101 Plaza Place Ste 200. Also, follow @braswell.insurance on Facebook for helpful tips and information on upcoming events.
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
THE LURE OF SCOTTSDALE
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale —also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm (including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack
What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Amazing Scavenger Hunt! - The Amazing Denton Art
Downtown Denton | 9:00 AM
Ready to have some fun in charming Denton? Grab your friends and get ready for a scavenger hunt! You'll be directed around downtown and may even discover some hidden gems that locals don't even know about. It's only $15 to sign up, so don't miss this opportunity!
FEBRUARY 1ST
Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo
Dickies Arena | 11:00 AM
It's that time of year again! Don't miss the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo held at Dickies Arena. This family-friendly event is great for all ages and features livestock shows, a rodeo, and more. Once you are done, head to the Stockyards Coliseum to take in even more of the cowboy culture!
FEBRUARY 10TH
February Open House at The Hive
The Hive 1485 Commons Cir Suite 200, Northlake, TX 76226 | 6:45 PM
Once a month, The Hive opens its doors to families to tour the facility and meet the owners and staff. It's a great way to put faces to names for everyone! The Hive is an hourly childcare facility that offers affordable and flexible drop-in rates for kids 6 weeks old to 10 years old.
Is Your Pool Winter Ready?
“We’ve been part of churches before but we’ve often felt as though it was difficult to make genuine connections with others. We wondered at ACC would it be more of the same?”
Use this QR code to watch the full story of how Brandon and Cyne found “something different” at ACC.
WATCH THEIR FULL STORY HERE.
