Happy holidays!
The holiday season is a truly enchanting time of year. My family and I look forward to all the fun and festivities that December brings, from visits with Santa to strolling through Southlake Town Square and walking down Grapevine’s Main Street, officially proclaimed the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” Southlake truly embraces the magic of the holiday season once the tree lighting begins the weekend before Thanksgiving – so by December, we're all ready to go! Seeing my daughter’s face light up with holiday delight, and seeing other children doing the same, fills me with joy. It’s such a special time!
Here in the Metroplex, we live in such a great place to enjoy the holidays. Not only is it a time for merriment and getting together with friends and family for celebrations, it’s also a time to reflect on the year we’re finishing and the new year that’s on the way. What will your resolutions be? What hopes and aspirations do you have for 2025? I hope all your wishes and goals come true. Ringing in the new year is a great part of the holiday season, however you choose to enjoy it.
This month, we feature articles about our friends at WillowTree Custom Homes, where beauty meets innovation and building your dream home is a dream come true. Business partners Travis Franks and Jody Alumbaugh have built a brand that has a lot to celebrate as this year ends and the new year rolls in. We hope you’ll enjoy their story.
Broker Online Exchange (BOX), one of America’s fastest-growing companies, located in Westlake, is another business featured this month. BOX is the ultimate commercial energy broker partner and is always hiring great people – check them out!
We’re also happy to feature Great Plains Bank, a bank with not just expertise and great services but also heart – Great Plains is a major player in our community, with involvement in more causes and charitable organizations than you can count. They are truly part of what makes our community great.
You’re sure to enjoy reading about the Dark Knight Bat Ball, an annual Batmanthemed gala benefitting local charities. The 2025 ball is set for February 8. Brick Restoration is another story you won’t want to miss, and we hope you’ll take a look at our National Giving Campaign feature.
In closing, I hope this holiday season brings the spirit of joy, togetherness and cherished traditions to you, with a chance to make great, new memories that will last a lifetime!
JON CALVIN, PUBLISHER
@SOUTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Jon Calvin | jon.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Mandy Calvin | mandy.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sally Crocker | sally.crocker@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sally Crocker, Mandy Calvin
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Samantha Farris
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
LuxuryCabin Retreat s
share the holiday season together
W W W . B R O K E N - B R A N C HP R O P E R T I E S . C O M
Own Real Estate Passively
Get the Benefits of Real Estate without all the headaches Cash Flow | Appreciation | Equity Growth | Tax Benefits Invest in our current multifamily fund which already
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Southlake Rotary Club members volunteering at Oktoberfest Southlake. 2: Colleyville Woman’s Club members volunteering with Metroport Meals on Wheels at the Colleyville Senior Center. 3: Truluck’s special prix fixe menu features multiple courses for $49 until 6:00 p.m. (except holidays). 4: Southlake Chamber members networking over lunch. 5: Rotary members supporting the Southlake Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for Spark Lab DFW. 6: Fun, laughter, friendship and making memories through good times at the Southlake Senior Activity Center. 7: Rotarians supporting friends and community at Serving Our Seniors.
SOUTHLAKE ROTARY CLUB
CAROL WOLLIN, CWC PUBLICITY CHAIR
TRULUCK’S
SOUTHLAKE
APN IS CHANGING THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS LANDSCAPE
in DALLAS-FORT WORTH
Home to several Fortune 500 companies, The DallasFort Worth metroplex is no stranger to cutting-edge innovation. Now, Colorado-based brand All Points North is bringing something new to DFW to help locals find total, sustainable health in mind and body.
With core behavioral health services from All Points North, neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry from Plus by APN, and mind-body group classes and personal training from 9x Fitness, All Points North (APN) Dallas-Fort Worth is a sanctuary of healing and recovery, dedicated to transforming the lives of those battling addiction, trauma, and mental health issues. This stateof-the-art facility combines luxurious accommodations with cutting-edge treatment modalities, making it a premier destination for comprehensive care.
Each APN Dallas-Fort Worth client receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. The facility offers a range of services, including medically supervised detox, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, and innovative therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), stellate ganglion blocks, and ketamine-assisted therapy.
APN’s multifaceted approach addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of addiction and mental health disorders, paving the way for longterm healing.
The dedicated care team at APN Dallas-Fort Worth understands that achieving optimal health requires a comprehensive approach. There’s no silver bullet, and there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Total health requires a custom approach for the mind and the body. By offering so many mental health services under one roof, APN Dallas-Fort Worth makes it easy for the local community to prioritize health and well-being.
Schedule a free consultation at apn.com/southlake
Coppell Arts Center wins Dallas Morning News
'People's Choice' awards
Coppell Arts Center has once again been awarded the Dallas Morning News People's Choice Best in DFW GOLD for Best Live Theater Venue for the third consecutive year. The Arts Center also won gold for Best Concert Venue, Gold for Best Entertainment District, Gold for Best Arts & Culture Event, Gold for Best Music Venue, Gold for Best Art Gallery, Gold for Best Place to Volunteer, and Silver for Best Family Attraction.
Photography: Coppell Arts Center
Scan to read more
Editor/writer wins two international awards for Southlake City Lifestyle magazine
On behalf of Southlake City Lifestyle magazine, editor/writer Sally Crocker has won two international MarCom awards for her articles on Loving Long Ears Donkey Therapy/Sanctuary (featured in our August 2024 issue) and Natalie Renda-Lorant's dream to build Calabrese Italian Restaurant (in our May 2024 issue). Sally won a Gold Award for Loving Long Ears and Honorable Mention for the Calabrese story. MarCom is one of the world's largest and most-respected creative competitions. Each year about 6,500 print and digital entries are submitted from dozens of countries.
Photography: Dusty Crocker
Hotel Vin ranked among the top hotels
in Texas
Congratulations to Grapevine's Hotel Vin, which was ranked #4 in the "Best Hotels in Texas" category by @cntraveler!
Photography: Adobe Stock Photo
North Texas Gives Here
Brad Chapman, Cheryl Chapman, Sandra McGlothlin and Mark McGlothlin
A GREAT PLACE TO WORK!
Broker Online Exchange (BOX), one of America’s fastest-growing companies located in Westlake, is hiring new team members
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROKER
BOX is always hiring awesome people!
BOX (Broker Online Exchange), with its worldwide headquarters located right in Westlake’s Solana subdivision, has been named as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies by Inc. 5000, a well-respected benchmark of success, and has been recognized among the 360 Best Entrepreneurial Companies in America by Entrepreneur magazine.
Broker Online Exchange is the ultimate commercial energy brokering partner, providing independent energy brokers and
ONLINE EXCHANGE (BOX) AND ADOBE STOCK PHOTOS
Left page, Top: BOX founders and staff.
Bottom: Building relationships, serving clients.
This page, Top: BOX offers lots of fun and camaraderie.
Bottom: BOX founders and staff.
affiliates with access to all the top electricity and gas suppliers, instant pricing and cutting-edge software, all supported by world-class experts.
BOX provides energy expertise to help commercial customers make the smartest decision for their business, by being able to purchase energy in a cost effective manner according to their usage and the right products for them.
December and January are expected to be big hiring months for BOX, and applications are being accepted now. At least one year of sales experience is needed, and training is provided. Most of the job is building relationships with the company’s partners over the phone and occasionally in person.
“We are a great place to work. Being a part of the BOX team enables you to build a fun and exciting career in the world of energy trading,” says Lauren Bailey, Director of Sales. “We like to hire people with an entrepreneurial spirit, and we offer that small, family business feel where people can really make an impact in their career and on behalf of their clients.”
With a family-type environment that offers a hybrid schedule; competitive healthcare, PTO schedules and 401K options; and “work from anywhere days,” BOX is the perfect place to build your career. BOX also hires remote workers for certain positions.
“We also enjoy a lot of outings and networking opportunities,” Lauren says. “Our suppliers invite us to fun events like golf tournaments, football games and happy hours. And we enjoy doing special things around the office as well, serving employees lunch on certain days and engaging in other team activities. Many of our team members are also involved in a Grapevine softball league. We have a good time here and enjoy working together.”
BOX helps all types of industries save money on energy costs, including clients representing apartments and multifamily housing; commercial real estate companies; educational organizations; government and municipalities; the hospitality industry; manufacturing and industrial companies; and restaurants and bars.
BOX team members enjoy working and relaxing together.
Bottom: Employees have fun at a Rangers game.
BOX leverages over 100 years of combined energy experience in negotiating contract terms and pricing, acting as an advocate and partner to different businesses who are looking to make sound decisions on their energy expenses, including both electricity and natural gas contracts.
BOX works with all sizes of companies, including large organizations like the Dallas Stars, the State Fair of Texas, AT&T Stadium’s home of the Dallas Cowboys football, and more.
BOX has been in the local area for 10 years, starting in Southlake and growing exponentially over time.
“We help thousands of energy brokers sell to their customers every year, as a one-stop shop addressing their needs – and we attribute our success to the excellent customer service we provide. Our number one mission is to take care of our customers,” Lauren notes.
For more information on BOX and the career opportunities that the company offers, visit brokeronlinexchange.com .
“Being part of the BOX team enables you to build a fun and exciting career in the world of energy trading.”
Top:
St. Jude Dream Home Showplace at Carillon Development
79 single-family custom homes built by Southlake’s premier builders
Each custom-built home offers unparalleled luxury features in a community designed for active lifestyles in a harmonious landscape
Perfect blend of luxurious elegance and convivence
Walking distance to a vibrant mix of shops, entertainment, and restaurants
The perfect balance of luxury and lifestyle
John Webb Founder Heritage Custom Homes
Jon Atwood Atwood Custom Homes Founder
Travis Franks Jody Alumbaugh Willow Tree Founders
Nick Smith Kensington Homes Founder
Paul Moss Founder Kyle Moss Beckett Graham Luxury Homes
WillowTree Custom Homes
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILLOWTREE CUSTOM HOMES
““A home isn’t just a home to us, it’s about the family who will live in and enjoy it.”
– Travis Franks
WillowTree Custom Homes, founded by childhood friends Travis Franks and Jody Alumbaugh, has deep roots in friendship and shared experiences. Their journey began in the fifth grade, blossoming through years of playing baseball together at Keller High School. During a memorable senior road trip, they coined the name “WillowTree,” which symbolized their close-knit group of friends.
After reconnecting post-college, Travis and Jody decided to channel their passion into homebuilding, and it was natural to call their company WillowTree Custom Homes. With Jody’s expertise as a licensed structural engineer and Travis’s extensive experience in residential construction, they identified a gap for innovative builders in the DFW market. This December, they proudly celebrate 11 years of crafting unique homes, continuing the spirit of camaraderie that inspired their brand.
Left Page, Top: Jody Alumbaugh and Travis Franks, founders of WillowTree Custom Homes.
This Page, Top: Welcome home! Bottom: This inviting entrance welcomes you to stay and enjoy the serenity of your beautiful surroundings.
Left Page, Top: A beautiful eden in your own backyard.
Bottom: A cozy living room welcomes family and friends to stay a while.
This Page, Left: A gorgeous living room to relax in with family and friends.
Circle: An incredible WillowTree kitchen.
“We started with a small remodel in 2013, and now WillowTree has blossomed into one of North Texas’ premier custom home builders,” Travis says. “It’s exciting to realize what can be accomplished with teamwork.”
“This year has been such a time of growth, teamwork, honest and responsible effort, and giving back to the community. We are so happy to celebrate all the people who have placed their trust in us as we mark the holidays, the close of 2024 and what’s ahead for 2025.”
This year, WillowTree has achieved significant milestones, including the sold-out Hidden Trails development and the launch of WillowTree Gardens, a new subdivision adjacent to Southlake Town Square. Designed for young families and empty nesters, this gated community will feature villa-style homes ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 sq. ft., with construction set to begin in late summer 2025.
Coming together this year to embrace the spirit of family, caring and giving, WillowTree joined with four other luxury homebuilders in an incredible, out-of-the box idea to develop a “Dream Home Showplace Community” in Southlake’s beautiful Carillon Park division. Five incredible homes, showcased side-by-side, are being built to raise funds benefitting the lifesaving work and the children of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®.
“This is such an honor for us as a company,” Travis says.
Additionally, WillowTree is planning The Bluffs in Colleyville, a luxury community nestled in a wooded area with stunning horizon views. Homes there will start at over 5,000 sq. ft., appealing to those seeking both luxury and a unique connection to the landscape.
Travis emphasizes their dedication to providing a concierge-like experience for clients through an app that facilitates 24/7 communication and project tracking.
“We build not just a house, we build a home,” he affirms, underscoring their commitment to integrity and value.
As they look to the future, WillowTree remains focused on growth, teamwork and giving back to the community.
Top: Dinner for one or a few is easy with ample space and topnotch appliances in your WillowTree home.
Bottom: Longtime friends and business partners Travis Franks and Jody Alumbaugh.
GREAT PLAINS BANK VALUES AND NURTURES CLIENTS’ RELATIONSHIPS AS WELL AS COMMUNITY SERVICE
Helping neighbors succeed
Top: Southlake Rotarians volunteering at the GRACE Food Pantry, one of the many charities the bank supports. Bottom Left: Great Plains Bank at work in the community. | Bottom Right: Great Plains Bank working on projects to serve YOU!
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREAT PLAINS BANK
“We’re here to help people succeed.” - Randy McCauley
The goal of Southlake’s Great Plains Bank is to exceed customers’ expectations. With years of experience, Great Plains’ leadership team has always strived to build a bank that clients can count on, to uplift the local community and help employees grow.
The bank has been in Southlake for nearly 20 years, first known as Providence Bank of Texas, and then as Great Plains Bank when the two merged in December 2022.
Randy McCauley, Northeast Tarrant County director, who offices at the Southlake branch, previously served as president and CEO of Providence Bank. Randy says that Providence was open to merging with a larger like-minded entity, and Great Plains fit that model. Providence had two locations, and Great Plains now has 23. The merger gave Providence diversification and more scale – which ultimately is of great benefit to Southlake and Northeast Tarrant County-area customers.
Great Plains supports all lines of business, including construction, mortgage and commercial lending, consumer banking, energy and agricultural lending, and more. Great Plains is also a preferred SBA lender.
“As a merger partner, Great Plains allowed Providence Bank to expand services and offerings to clients, while at the same time maintain that community bank feel that’s so important,” Randy says.
In addition to the banking center at 325 E. Southlake Boulevard, Great Plains also has locations in Irving, Frisco, Fort Worth and Sherman.
Randy and Great Plains market president Janice Spooner have worked together decades as friends and associates within the banking industry. They have both been involved in banking for over 35 years. They have also recently been joined by an old friend, Mark Jones, as the bank’s new Texas regional president.
Community involvement is very important to both banking professionals, and both are a big part of local organizations and causes.
“Being a part of the communities we serve is very important to our core and who we are,” Janice says.
Over the decades, their community involvement has included everything from the local chambers of commerce, faith-based organizations, non-profit agencies and others. Randy, Janice and their banking
team members have volunteered for organizations like Habitat for Humanity, and Janice is involved in a Keller Chamber of Commerce committee for women’s empowerment.
Randy is a past Board president of Metroport Meals on Wheels, and he and Janice both remain involved with the organization, helping out in various ways as needed.
“The community service that Great Plains allows us to engage in is very expansive and important to what we do every day,” Janice says.
Randy served two terms on the Texas Bankers Association board of directors, and he’s a two-term past chair of the Southlake Chamber. He is treasurer of the Northeast Leadership Forum. He’s also a Southlake Rotarian and is one of the founding members of the Southlake Kiwanis Club.
Janice serves on the Northeast Leadership Forum board as well, is involved in various committees, and is a financial literacy instructor in small business and education. Elder abuse awareness is also very important to Janice, and she works in that area, making presentations to different local organizations. She helps small businesses become bankable and works with Junior Achievement, to support and encourage the future business leaders of tomorrow. And she’s known for her monthly podcast, “Banking on Success Together,” that’s available on Apple, YouTube and other social media sites, offering community and consumer information – everything from personal to mortgage banking, economics and cyber security - with a focus on what’s happening in the DFW Metroplex. Significantly, Janice has been named as an Outstanding Woman in Banking by BankBeat.biz.
“Community banking is all about collaborative effort,” Randy says. “We’re here to help people succeed. With a community bank, you have a true relationship with someone you trust, and you can pick up the phone and call them anytime.”
“We work to fit the needs of our clients with the services we offer, and to build personal, meaningful partnerships,” he adds. “It’s important for us to help the community succeed.”
The community service that Great Plains allows us to engage in is very expansive and important to what we do every day. “ ”
Top: The Southlake Kiwanis Club in action, volunteering at Miracle League. Great Plains Bank is a supporter of these types of activities. | Bottom: Randy and his wife are supporters of the Metroport Meals on Wheels fundraiser, "Party in the Pasture." (photo credit: Mike Lewis Photography)
Creative Elements
Thinking about making some changes in your home? Dreaming about a new kitchen or bathroom you saw on Pinterest or Houzz? Whether it is changing your current look for more modern, clean lines, updating the traditional to more transitional,or simply making your space more functional, Creative Elements is ready to make your next step a reality
|
BOUTIQUE BOUTIQUE BOUTIQUE
All ages and sizes (0-22) welcome
Limited
Custom jewelry Accessories
NAILS NAILS NAILS
Spa Manicure Gel Nails
Acrylic Nails
Powder
EYELASHES EYELASHES EYELASHES
(Individuals)
Tabs/Clusters False Lashes
Custom Designs
SEMI-PERMANENT SEMI-PERMANENT SEMI-PERMANENTMAKE-UP MAKE-UP MAKE-UP
Lip Blushing Microblading
Nano Shading
Color Correction
Brow Extensions
Shaping/Wax
Henna/Tint
Brow Lamination
Come
bat ball 2025
GRAPEVINE’S DARK KNIGHT BAT BALL BENEFITS
LOCAL CHARITIES. JOIN THE FUN FOR GOOD CAUSES.
Villains or friends?
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER
BY GRAPEVINE’S DARK KNIGHT BAT BALL
PHOTOGRAPHY
Characters you might encounter at the Bat Ball.
Each year, Grapevine’s Dark Knight Bat Ball raises funds for area charities like GRACE, Grapevine AMBUCS, Center for Transforming Lives, Make-A-Wish® of North Texas and others. Those are the organizations designated as beneficiaries of the event’s 2025 fundraising.
GRACE, located in Grapevine, provides assistance to families and individuals in crisis situations, and Tarrant County’s Center for Transforming Lives helps single mothers and their children who are facing poverty. Make-A-Wish® grants wishes for children diagnosed with critical illnesses, and Grapevine AMBUCS is dedicated
to creating mobility and independence among people with disabilities.
The 2025 Bat Ball will be hosted at Grapevine’s Lancaster Theater on downtown Main Street. The date is Saturday, February 8, from 6 to 9 p.m., with dining and entertainment, raffles, a silent auction, photo booth, DJ music and more. Gala or costume attire is welcomed. Dining will include heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts from Chez Fabien Bistro. Tickets are available through gdkbatball.org
The Bat Ball was created by the local Batman himself, Grapevine resident Jason Parker, along with a group from his White’s Chapel Sunday school class.
Over the years, Jason had developed quite a reputation as the famous caped
crusader. He’d first started imitating the voice of Batman for his daughters around the dinner table for fun, then began dressing up for Halloween back in 2015, and was later asked by his neighbors to be a silent auction prize at a charity golf tournament. From there, he started volunteering for the Make A Wish Foundation, appearing around town in his costume, driving a refurbished “Batmobile” Corvette.
Before long, friends were encouraging Jason to start an event where guests could dress up to raise funds for charity, and the annual Grapevine Dark Knight Bat Ball gala and nonprofit organization began.
Join in this February for a good time for some very worthy causes!
Batman with the notorious Dr. Evil.
Having photo booth fun.
It's a great time to dress up as your favorite Batman character.
Batman takes charge.
Hamming it up at Grapevine's Dark Knight Bat Ball.
Brick by Brick
ARTICLE BY MANDY CALVIN, SALLY CROCKER, BETTY MOONEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRICK RESTORATION
Q: WHEN WAS BRICK RESTORATION STARTED, AND WHY?
A: “My father, Roberto Zumeta, started Brick Restoration out of our garage in 1993 in Houston. Back then, the standard masonry repairs left homes with an ugly patch job or scars from cracks in the brick and mortar. He saw the need in our own neighborhood and around our community for a brick repair service that didn’t just repair the brick but also made it blend into the original look of the home, leaving the home as good as new! That’s where we got our tagline ‘We restore to original beauty.’”
AN INTERVIEW WITH BRICK RESTORATION’S PRESIDENT
BETTY MOONEY
Brick Restoration works on both the interior and exterior of homes.
“THE BRICK, STONE, STUCCO ON YOUR HOME IS THE FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE FOR PROTECTING YOUR HOME AGAINST THE ELEMENTS, ESPECIALLY WATER.”
Q: WHAT SERVICES DOES BRI OFFER?
A: “We provide seamless repairs for all types of masonrybrick, stone and even stucco. We help homeowners, property managers and HOAs repair and enhance their biggest assets. Homeowners most often call us because they have cracks and damaged brick on their homes, leaning columns, leaking chimneys, or because their home is simply lacking some curb appeal. Property managers and board members often need help with repairing their neighborhood monument signs, or a brick perimeter fence around a community. For all these problems, we have ways of restoring, enhancing and maintaining the beauty of masonry.
One of our most popular services with homeowners is our Brick Deco Wash. This is a masonry coating we apply over the brick or stone that completely transforms the look of the home. The application techniques include White Wash, German Smear and Slurry, and can be applied in a range of colors from white to dark brown. For those who don’t like the color of the brick or stone on their home, this is a beautiful and cost effective way to completely transform the look of your home.
Another very exciting service for HOAs and residents is our Brick Perimeter Fence Program. This is our method of repairing rather than replacing the brick fences that often surround high-end Texas communities. These are beautiful and very functional fences that add value to the communities they protect, but they need attention. It brings me so much joy when I see relief on board members’ and property managers’ faces when they realize we can save the community hundreds of thousands in replacement costs by using our Fence Restoration process - AND the fence will be in even better shape than ever!
Sometimes when masonry work has been put off for too long or a significant accident occurs, the right solution is to demolish and rebuild the masonry. If this is the case, we still ensure the best possible match and even provide additional masonry staining for any new installation of brick or stone, so that the work looks seamless.”
CONTINUED >
Home before restoration work.
Brick Restoration has transformed this home.
“Cracked or damaged masonry can create not only an eyesore for your home but can also affect the structural stability of your home. Brick Restoration has the tools to not only fix your house but restore it to its original beauty.
Southlake residents can trust that with Brick Restoration they are working with a trusted company that has their best interest at heart. The company’s mission is to improve properties and improve lives – the lives of our customers, our employees and our partners. Everything we do is geared toward that purpose. That is why we only use our own specially-trained employees, we carry extensive insurance for your protection and theirs, and we promise exemplary results. Our technicians are not just masons, they are true artisans and have mastered the art of brick staining, cloning and mortar matching. This is the only way you can ensure your property is restored to its original beauty. Just look at our reviews! Southlake is an exceptional community that deserves exceptional service providers like us working on their properties.”
Betty Mooney
PRESIDENT
Q: WHY IS HAVING GOOD MASONRY WORK ON YOUR HOUSE SO IMPORTANT?
A: “The brick, stone, stucco on your home is the first line of defense for protecting your home against the elements, especially water. Water is the biggest enemy of any home and ensuring your masonry is free of cracks that could cause leaks – especially around chimneys and windows - is critical if you want to prevent more costly damage later. The masonry walls, columns and other features around your home also provide protection and curb appeal, and keeping those in good shape enhances the value and beauty of your property.”
Q: HOW DO COLOR, WASH AND OTHER BRICK TREATMENTS AFFECT VISUAL APPEAL?
A: “Applying a Deco Wash to the masonry on your home is a wonderful way of transforming the curb appeal of your home and fortifying your masonry against the elements. This is very different from painting the brick, which we do not recommend. Paint seals the brick and prevents the masonry from breathing. If water gets through cracks in the future, this can cause major problems to the home and the brick - not to mention that it has to be done over and over during the life of the home. Our Deco Wash is a proprietary masonry mix that is permanent but breathable and lasts the life of the home. Not only is the material important when applying a Deco Wash, but the application technique is truly what makes the difference between a home where the result ends up with a ‘messy’ or ‘sloppy’ look and a home where the end result resembles the old-world charm of a European estate.”
Q: WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE READERS ABOUT THE WORK THAT BRI DOES?
A: “Most people just don’t know there are simple repairs that can be done to brick. They usually think that damaged or cracked brick is something they have to live with or they have to completely replace it. It’s our job to spread the word that you don’t have to live with ugly or damaged brick – you can restore it! Another surprise is how closely we can match the brick and mortar with our color-matched masonry compound and staining. We have architects and builders that tell us point-blank that they don’t believe we can do it ... we love proving them wrong. They become our biggest fans!”
“WE LIVE BY THREE BRAND PROMISES FOR OUR CUSTOMERS. FIRST, EVERY CUSTOMER GETS A 5-STAR SERVICE EXPERIENCE –REGARDLESS OF THE SIZE OF THEIR JOB.”
Q: WHAT SETS BRI APART FROM OTHER SIMILAR COMPANIES IN DFW AND THE SOUTHLAKE AREA?
A: “We live by three brand promises for our customers. First, every customer gets a 5-star service experience – regardless of the size of their job. This means from the moment you call our office, we answer the phones, communicate throughout, and do what we say we’ll do. Next, we promise clarity and accuracy in price and scope. We’re very detailed and clear in our proposals for work, and our pricing is fair and accurate. Finally, we promise an undetectable repair – at a glance. Brick Restoration has spent over 30 years developing proprietary restoration methods, materials and techniques that provide our customers with exceptional results. We’ve added ‘at a glance’ because it’s important that we set realistic expectations with our customers. Most of our customers cannot tell where the work was performed. Masonry is intended to be looked at from several feet away – not inches away, so I like to underpromise and over-deliver. I let customers know that it is possible if you know exactly where a repair was done, you might be able to pick it out. But the promise is that anyone walking by or walking up to your home will never be able to tell you had work done there.”
Let Brick Restoration bring your home back to its original glory for all to appreciate!
Left page, top: Brick Restoration can transform brick around windows and doors as well as brick and stone columns and stairs. | This page, top: Brick steps prior to restoration. | Bottom: Brick Restoration has made this home’s entry brand new.
CoolSculpting® Special: $550 per treatment ($200 savings)
Defenage Holiday Kit: Get
products for radiant skin!
William Ramirez President & CEO, TX Lic # 2947120
William Ramirez is the President and founder of American Life Investment's. William has been helping families, businesses, and individuals for over 20 years to protect and maximize their retirement/investment portfolio with no market risk.
He’s now living with his beautiful wife and adorable two year old daughter here in Texas.
Ask for a Free consultation to learn about A Tax Free, No Market Risk, Guaranteed Lifetime Income Investment, which most of the Wall Street banks, Billionaires like Warren Buffet have been using for many years.
Please call if you have any questions or for a FREE consultation!
(805)-587-8785 OR (469) 558-0169 Americanlifeinvestments.com
THROUGH DECEMBER 29TH
HilltopSecurities Camp Christmas
Strauss Square, 2403 Flora St., Dallas
Camp Christmas is an enormous, fully immersive art installation where you can reconnect with everything you love about the holiday season. For more information, visit attpac.org/campchristmas
DECEMBER 1ST
Pretty Little Holiday Market
Fort Worth Stockyards, Stockman’s Club St#225, 140 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth | 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Enjoy more than 40 vendors, live music, a free tote bag for the first 100 shoppers and more. Get into the festive spirit, perfect for your Christmas gift shopping! And while you’re there, enjoy the magic of the Stockyards with Cowboy Santa, an outdoor ice rink and Polar Express Cliburn Family Concert Series. It’s a day of holiday cheer. dfwcrafts.com/event/pretty-little-holiday-market
DECEMBER 1ST
'Twas the Night Before Christmas at Casa Mañana Theatre
3101 Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth | 11:00 AM
Molly's having trouble finding her Christmas spirit. Determined to make it a Christmas to remember, Molly’s mother takes her on a magical treasure hunt through New York City, from Radio City Music Hall to Macy’s, where they encounter dancing elves and Santa Claus himself! Featuring holiday parodies of today’s most popular songs, this yuletide spectacular is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. casamanana.org/events/twas
DECEMBER 6TH - 15TH
Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St., Dallas
A holiday tradition loved by many in the Metroplex, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra brings you a joyous holiday celebration of music, merriment and holiday spirit. Tickets sell out fast - information is available through: eventticketscenter.com/dallas-symphonychristmas-pops-dallas-tickets.
DECEMBER 6TH - 22ND
A Christmas Carol presented by Theatre Coppell
Wheelice Wilson, Jr. Theatre, 505 Travis Street, Coppell
This beloved Christmas play by Charles Dickens will be held Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 pm, with matinees beginning at 2:30 pm on Dec. 8, 15 and 22. For more information and tickets, visit coppellartscenter.org/events/detail/theatre-coppell-a-christmas-carol.
DECEMBER 17TH
A Soulful Christmas with Tye Tribett
AT&T Performing Arts Center, Winspear Opera House | 7:30 PM
Tye Tribbett has had a legendary career, culminating most recently in the 2024 Best Gospel Album Grammy Award for his release of All Things New: Live In Orlando. He’s globally known for his charismatic, dynamic personality and range, from delivering high-energy praise songs to intimate worship moments, African rhythms and more. Visit tickets.attpac.org for more information.
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
