The Thankful Issue
LIFE + CULTURE
FAITH,FELLOWSHIP, & JIUJITSU
ENTERTAINMENT GOLFING AND GRATITUDE IN DENTON
This Year’s Festive Truck Setup For The 2024 C Christmas Mini Sessions
Gratitude Is The Attitude
The season of giving is drawing near as is the time for reflection on this past year. Thanksgiving embodies feelings of gratitude on conscious and unconscious levels. This time of year is about two very important things: quality time with loved ones and giving back. While ambition, competition, and chasing goals are all necessary, they mean nothing without those who have supported us.
This time of year, I find myself thinking back to when I was a kid at Thanksgiving. I loved being a part of cooking, baking, and preparing a meal for the whole family. It's amazing how much those memories stay with you even after all these years.
In our November issue, we hope that themes of generosity, gratitude, and grace draw you in. Our friends at Jesus & Jujitsu discuss their mission to create a space of faith and strength while delivering on the greatest opportunity to give back. Deb Siefkin talked us through her tips for staging a home for sale during the holidays. If you're like us, gift-giving is already on your mind and Albatross Indoor Golf or Berryman's Salon would be perfect for anyone in your life.
We’re incredibly grateful for the residents, businesses, and organizations who contribute to the growing tapestry of our city. Thank you to our advertising partners who enable us to deliver story after story. You are integral to our mission of creating a positive platform for local businesses and individuals.
Before we sit down for Thanksgiving dinner, we'd like to share this moment of reflection with you. There are so many blessings to be thankful for.
Wishing you and your family a season filled with gratitude and joy.
CRYSTAL HOBBS, PUBLISHER @NORTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Crystal Hobbs | crystal.hobbs@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Michele Witz | michele.witz@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kellie Krevosky | kellie.krevosky@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Michelle Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Savanna Romano, Christina Schmidt
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
city scene
1: Outdoor cafe in Campo de’ Fiori, Rome. Campo de’ Fiori, translated means “field of flowers”. 2: The legend of tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain dates back to ancient Rome. 3: Family vacation checking out the Mayan Ruins in Mexico. 4: Scuba diving, or scuba scooting, in style! 5: This shot of the Verona Countryside in Italy looks like a movie still. 6: Terri McNutt hanging out by a towering glacier in Matanuska Valley, Alaska. 7: After climbing the waterfalls in Dunn’s River, Jamaica, rehydrate with fresh coconut water.
8: Terri McNutt in Alaska on her way to Matanuska Valley! 9: Cinque Terre, Italy is surrounded by the Mediterranean sea, vineyards, and mountains. 10: The perfect getaway spot at Sandal’s Ochi Ocho Rios in Jamaica. 11: A typical scene on the streets of Verona. 12: Jerrod Pickering and family in front of the Eifel Tower. 13: Vacation mode is activated once the pink umbrellas go up in Ochi Ocho Rios, Jamaica. 14: The Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built in Rome.
business monthly
All Women, All Auto
Brittani's Automotive, a woman-owned repair shop, is right off Highway 114 in Haslet with a specialization in diagnosing mechanical & electrical issues on vehicles. By providing a personalized approach to auto repair, they offer exceptional service and precision repairs because that's what matters. Discounts are available for Teachers & Staff, First Responders & Veterans. Appointments can be made online and walk-ins are always welcome!
Black Friday Deals with Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
There is SO much going on at Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow Electrolysis in Roanoke! Yui Oreanmongkon joined the team and for the whole week of Thanksgiving, there is 20% off any session with her which also extends to any products. If you book with Stephanie, a new electrologist currently being trained, receive a highly discounted 75% off treatments with her now through the end of the year! Visit www.htgtelectrolysis.com for more.
Murals with Megan
Pay someone to draw on your walls. No, seriously! Megan Najera is a local muralist with a specialty in floral and botanical designs. She's been creating and selling art for over 10 years now and would love to work with you. Plant shops, coffee shops, and restaurants who want the unique, one-of-a-kind feel that only a mural can provide, Megan is who to call. Visit mlnart.shop for more information or to book her services.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA SCHMIDT
FOSTERING FAITH & RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH FITNESS
LEARN ABOUT THE MEN BEHIND A POWERFUL MOVEMENT OF FAITH, STRENGTH, AND COMMUNITY
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START JESUS AND JIU-JITSU?
I attended a Christian men's ministry weekend called Pursuit, with a few of my friends from Jiu-Jitsu. We had an amazing experience that deepened our friendship. Afterwards, we collectively felt inspired to continue that fellowship, but bring as many people into that as we could from the JiuJitsu community. We felt like Jiu-Jitsu was a great environment with camaraderie, but it lacked the depth of Christian fellowship, so we wanted to create an opportunity for that. Thanks to the efforts of my brothers and co-founders Steven Little, JP Dinnell, and Josh Struassberger, we were able to formalize the ministry, set goals, and start organizing events.
They come and give their very valuable knowledge and expertise, donating it for free, because they have a heart for ministry.
WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE ORGANIZATION?
We formed Jesus and Jiu-Jitsu about two years ago and it exists to build community and fellowship around Jesus and great Jiu-Jitsu. We didn't want it just to be a Bible study that you do after class, we want Jesus to be the focal point of the whole thing while also bringing in world-class Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and competitors to teach techniques.
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WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS DO YOU HOST?
We have an event about every six weeks and about 240 people attend each event. We have Jiu-Jitsu competitors and instructors, most of whom are world or Pan American champions, MMA Fighters, or Olympic wrestlers, who come and teach a free seminar for everyone who wants to come. The instructors teach techniques they are well known for such as takedowns, sweeps, and passes. After the seminar, a pastor shares their testimony. Then we spar or roll for about an hour and a half with the instructors. We have people who attend who are training for championships and local tournaments, as well as those who just enjoy Jiu-Jitsu as a hobby. They are excited for the opportunity to experience the techniques and expertise of these highlevel instructors.
HOW DO YOU FIND INSTRUCTORS?
Because of our relationships with academies in the Jiu-Jitsu community, we have access to experienced competitors and instructors. We use our network to reach out to people and extend an invitation. They come and give their very valuable knowledge and expertise, donating it for free, because they have a heart for ministry and because they want to bless that community.
WHAT OTHER PROGRAMS DO YOU OFFER?
We have a discipleship group that is like a Bible study that we livestream, and people tune in from all over. We also have a weekly podcast that releases each Tuesday that is hosted by the four co-founders. In the podcast, we talk about some components of fitness, whether it's weightlifting, nutrition, or Jiu-Jitsu. But the main goal [of Jesus & Jiujitsu] is discipleship: to help deepen your faith, to understand the word of God and how to apply it to your life, and to be conformed to the image of Jesus. So then you will live a life that demonstrates Him to the people around you.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING PART OF THIS MINISTRY?
It has been our greatest honor and joy to witness people coming back to God, or deepening their relationship with God, and finding support within a community of Christ-followers.
I see Jiu-Jitsu not just as something that we stumbled upon as a hobby, but looking at it as a gift that God gave us.
WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAY FOR PARTICIPANTS?
I want them to know about the gospel of Jesus Christ. People may have heard the word ‘gospel’, but not understood what it really is. Romans 6:23 says that the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus. What we've earned for ourselves through sin is eternal punishment. That's the bad news. The good news is that Jesus died the death that we deserved. His blood was shed so that we might be forgiven if we choose to trust in Him and accept the free gift of salvation. That's the best news that I could ever hope to share with any person.
HOW DOES THANKFULNESS PLAY INTO YOUR MISSION?
Being intentional about thankfulness turns your heart toward God. I'm extremely grateful for the sport of Jiu-Jitsu because it parallels so much of life. I see Jiu-Jitsu not just as something that we stumbled upon as a hobby, but looking at it as a gift that God gave us to help us understand him more, appreciate life more, and go into deeper fellowship with each other. I’m extremely thankful to God for giving us this platform for connection and ministry.
For more information, visit jesusandjiujitsuusa.com. Also find Jesus & Jiutisu on YouTube, Instagram, and on podcast platforms.
It’s Pumpkin Bread Season
The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.
4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined.
5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended.
7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal.
8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
Deb Siefkin gives us great tips for decorating a home for sale this holiday season
Thankful Tables
With the holidays right around the corner, many of us are thinking about decorating. Some of us have already started! If your home is on the market, there are a few key elements to strike that balance between holiday spirit and showcasing your property, especially if you are hosting a Holiday dinner. Local realtor Deb Siefkin offered some of her expert tips for capturing your love of the holidays while still giving prospects a chance to see your home exactly as it is.
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA SCHMIDT
1. Keep it Simple. While it can be tempting to cover every inch of your space in decor, it’s still important to be mindful of viewings. Don’t forget about this as you are decorating your table for dinner. Centerpieces that are too busy will be distracting and even overwhelming. Go with pieces that will complement each other, but won’t overtake your space.
2. Highlight Key Pieces. Rather than going all out, focus on investing in key pieces for your centerpiece. These could be plants, candles, and even a few food elements! Just make sure that you don’t go overboard. Deb often uses Christmas Cactus in her spread for a beautiful touch of organic life and color. You can see it in the center of her mock spread. Though it hasn’t bloomed, it adds a beautiful, natural touch.
3 . Be Mindful of Scents. Last, but most certainly not least, when decorating your home for sale during the holidays, be aware of any scents you use. This is even true for your holiday tablescape. You don’t want anything that will overwhelm potential buyers--or your family! Of course, there is nothing better than the smells wafting from the kitchen during Thanksgiving, but you don’t want them to clash with any floral or earthy scents you may be using for your centerpiece.
My father became a resident of Teresa's House in Argyle about six weeks ago, and I've been very pleased with the quality of care. I thought that the transition to assisted living and memory care would be difficult for my father, but the staff at Teresa's house have helped make it go smoothly I've been especially impressed by how the head nurse and staff get to know each resident and learn his or her particular needs and preferences. They really go out of their way to accommodate both the residents and their families
Gratitude, Golf & Games
ALBATROSS GOLF IS BRINGING THE JOY OF THE OUTDOORS INSIDE
ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA
ROMANO
Shane Ritch and Alicia McDaniel wearing items from their pro shop.
Is there anything better than spending a day on the golf course? The answer is no for Shane Ritch and Alicia McDaniel, owners of Albatross Indoor Golf. After months and months of hard work and planning, they opened their doors in Denton, Texas with a positive reception. Albatross is a veteran and first responder-owned and operated business with big dreams. What’s more, they provide some seriously awesome giving-back opportunities to their community.
Shane, a former Marine who served two tours in Iraq, calls Denton home with his ten-year-old son and girlfriend and business manager, Alicia. Alicia manages the day-to-day operations at Alabtross but that's not all. She is currently in the Marine Corps Reserves and works as a first responder for the Fort Worth fire department when she’s not at Albatross or taking care of her fiveyear-old son. Together, they built a beautiful home but felt that something was still missing from their lives.
“I love my job but I needed to build something of my own. Something to pass on to our kids,” Shane said about why he decided to open Albatross Indoor Golf.
Shane is no stranger to the business industry. He tried his hand at a few businesses before settling down here in Denton and finding his stride with Albatross. This is more than a passion project or a business, though. This is a retirement plan. Shane has loved golfing since he was in high school. Since moving to Denton, he’s noticed that there weren’t many places to play golf recreationally or semi-professionally in the county. One of the few public golf courses in the city limits was closed back in 2003 leaving just four in the city and a handful throughout the county. Because of this, there is an overwhelming number of golfers with no place to play. While there are still several options, they are either private or too far of a distance to justify going
for most. They are also outdoors. While many love that aspect of the sport, not everyone enjoys trying to drive down the green against twenty-mile-an-hour winds in a forty-degree wind chill. Shane saw this and felt he had the opportunity to bring a wonderful new amenity to the golfers of Denton.
The name albatross refers to a kind of score golfers can make on a course. It makes sense that Shane would name his business this. In golfing, you have to play aggressively. If you play it safe, you'll never make an albatross. Shane took a chance with this business and it seems to have paid off.
One thing that is important to note: Albatross is not minigolf nor is it the popular indoor/outdoor golfing facility around the metroplex. It is also not a video game, though VR is something on the horizon for the business. Albatross Indoor Golf is meant to be a simulation of the outdoor golfing experience. Inside, they have six golf simulation bays available for rent where you are able to hit a real golf ball every time so you can get a feel for the action. Each machine can tell you your strengths, weaknesses, and even offer tips for improvement. But don’t think this is only for the pros! Beginners, like Alicia, are more than welcome to come in and play for fun or improvement. If you are interested in learning more about your technique, Shane has employed two local experts, Joel Van Der Sloot and Terry Davidson, to be on-site.
If you’re reading this thinking that golf isn’t really your thing, that’s okay! There is something for everyone here. Shane and Alicia have taken their vision of Albatross further than what might be expected. Opposite the golf bays are a series of couches where players can rest and chat while someone is up at the tee box. There are large TVs everywhere so you can
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“I love my job but I needed to build something of my own. Something to pass on to our kids.”
“We are grateful for the ability to provide this facility for the golf community of Denton County and share the experience with our kids.”
even watch a tournament or a movie while you play. Where else can you do that?! Along with those features, they have a few putting ranges set up for those who are waiting or want to work on their skills. You can rent bays for one hour during the week or on the weekend and the best part is, your rental fee won’t change based on the number of people you invite!
“We built it the way we thought it should be,” Shane explained about his vision for the business.
The ultimate goal for Albatross? To be a cornerstone of the community where everyone can feel comfortable spending quality time with friends and family. Around the corner from the bays is their clubhouse. Everyone is welcome to hang out there playing arcade games, pool, ping pong or foosball after they’re done with their round. When you’re here, Shane and Alicia want you to relax and have fun.
Though they are extremely happy with the grand opening of their business, both Shane and Alicia have big goals for the foreseeable future. Currently, they operate on a bring-your-own-bottle basis though their liquor license is on the way. According to their website, they hope to bring additional features such as interactive putting greens, food and drink, as well as the opportunity to host events large and small. They’ve even discussed the possibility of offering memberships. Right now, they are simply happy to be open and playing golf with the community.
For Shane, this chapter of his life has been one for the books. Opening up Albatross has been as rewarding as it has been challenging. No matter what, though, he’s thankful that he took the chance. He really did apply the phrase, “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life,” a fact that Shane does not take for granted. He has said repeatedly that he knows how lucky he is to have found the perfect blend of work and play. To make it even more special, he gets to share all of this with his children and his partner. It's safe to say that Shane is a very, very thankful man.
“We are grateful for the ability to provide this facility for the golf community of Denton County and share the experience with our kids,” Shane said.
That gratitude has been put back into the community through various outreach and giving programs hosted by their team. Both Shane and Alicia are dedicated to paying forward kindness, generosity, and hospitality. They hope that anyone who walks through their doors, whether they be new to the sport or not, feels welcomed and excited to be there. Though they did structure their business to emphasize instruction, their goal remains to offer so much more to the community.
To learn more about the facility or to rent a bay for yourself, visit the official website www.albatrossdenton.com While you’re there, don’t forget to check out all their social media accounts including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for fun content and important updates!
dip -giving
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
garlic herb feta dip
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
fig & honey brie
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
directions:
Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
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ARTICLE BY KELLIE KREVOSKY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAVANNA ROMANO
A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year. If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting. According to the survey, the median renovation budget is around $15,000, so you’re probably investing a significant amount—and you’ll want to ensure your project’s success. The first mistake is SKIPPING THE RESEARCH PHASE! Read my blog for a helpful guide.
Relationship Banking
At Its Best
Lamar Sponsored Student of the month
Sehana Johnson-Salimbacod
Leaving A Beautiful, Lasting Impact
Theatre is my true passion— whether I’m acting, directing, building sets, or designing costumes, I thrive on being involved. Knowing that the art we create can change how people see the world gives me purpose. I am driven by being a part of something bigger than myself and leaving a meaningful, lasting impact.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Argyle Thanksgiving Farmers Market & Holiday Artisan Fair
Argyle Party & Gift | 9:00 AM
Free to the public with onsite food donation stations to the Argyle Food Bank. Bring your whole family for a day of fun with more than 15 vendors offering argi-produce and holiday artisanal items!
DECEMBER 2ND
3rd Annual Town of Northlake Christmas at the Commons
Town of Northlake | 5:30 PM
Christmas comes early to Northlake! Join your friends, family, and neighbors for Christmas at The Commons. There will be market vendors, fantastic food, children's activities, the Santa Station, and a fun, festive Christmas parade!! Christmas Tree lighting is at 6:30pm.
DECEMBER 10TH
Christmas Trivia at Two Brother's Winery
Keller Public Library | 6:30 PM
Head out to the Keller Public Library for a Christmas-themed trivia night! All things Christmas with the usual prizes! Whether you enjoy singing loud for all to hear or just being a regular Grinch, let's kick off the holidays together! This is a perfect time to flex those brain muscles and enjoy a glass (or two) of wine!
At ACC Student Ministries, we come alongside families to pour into middle and high school students with the goal of creating lifelong followers of Jesus. In small groups, in worship, in teaching, we create a fun environment for students to connect to each other and to the Lord. We prioritize personal discipleship so they have a solid foundation of faith and the confidence to share God’s love with others.
SUNDAY SERVICE @ 10AM Plus programs for kids, students, and those with special needs
