Lifestyle Letter
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact.
We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets long-term financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.
We share how you can invest in your home and family by planning a garden. Learn all about gardening and how Twin Oaks Nursery can help on page 18. We sit down with Nat McClure of State Farm Insurance and hear how we can best protect our home and our family assets through specific insurance needs. And lastly, we find out how we can invest in our wardrobe with stylish staples from Honeysuckle Rose Boutique.
Tony Kaai of Denison Development Alliance and David Downtain with Urban Sherman fill us in on the upcoming growth in the Texoma area and what we might expect in the near future.
As always, thank you for reading and we will see you around town!
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @TEXOMACITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Danielle Poche | danielle.poche@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Jennifer Haveman | jennifer.haveman@citylifestyle.com
Lucas Ridley | lucas.ridley@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTOR
Roger Ireland | roger.ireland@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Roger Ireland, Mike Zapata, Katelyn Briscoe
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Mike Zapata, Courtney Mitchell
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Future
business monthly
WELCOME NEW PARTNER, JW LAND AND WATER
Welcome New Partner! JW Land and Water provide landscaping and irrigation solutions that work together seamlessly. Their mission is to blend the rich heritage of our landscapes with responsible practices to preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings. We are committed to sustainably nurturing and enhancing landscapes that endure for generations to come. Contact JW Land and Water today! TX-JW.com
DENISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARD WINNERS
Congratulations to all nominees and winners!
• Small Business - Heavenly Pet Cremations
• Large Business - First United Bank - Denison Main
• Ambassador of the YearEddie Brown
• Paul Kisel VolunteerTina Kurtenbach
• Non Profit - Katybugs & Butterflies Foundation, Inc.
• Chair Select - Fred Pilkilton
• Chamber SelectBubba Thompson
• President's Award - Ronnie Cole
Taste of the Chamber:
• Best Dessert The Frosted Shoppe in Denison,Texas
• Best Fine Dining and Best BoothStafford House Provisions
• Best Casual Dining and GRAND CHAMPION - Emily's Kitchen
SHERMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL AWARD WINNERS
Congratulations to all nominees and winners!
• Small Business of the Year: The Milieu Wine Bar
• Large Business of the Year: First United Bank
• Non-Profit of the Year: Boys & Girls Club of Sherman
• Community Leader of the Year: Ginger Nye with First United Bank
• Ambassador of the Year: Divina Armijo with Sparklight
• Leadership Award: Jason Myers with Presco
• Presidents Award: Asa Jessee with Edward JonesFinancial Advisor: Asa Jessee
POTTSBORO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARD WINNERS
We would like to congratulate all winners:
• Business of the Year –Sugar & Spice Cafe
• Non-Profit of the Year –Cardinal Protection
• Volunteer of the Year –Breanna Skinner - Realtor
• Community Advocate of the Year –Sherry Dunn
Utilizing the latest technologies and diagnostic techniques, we are trained and equipped to help you with all your eye care needs. From the most common vision issues all the way to the most complex of conditions like Dry Eyes, Ocular Allergies, Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration, Eye Care Texoma will outline a very clear and concise treatment plan for you and provide the confidence you are searching for in an eye care provider.
These winners are truly dedicated to making Pottsboro a better place, and we are so grateful for their hard work, passion, and commitment to our community.
WELCOME NEW PARTNER, BRAZEN BEAUTY VAULT
Welcome New Partner! Brazen Beauty Vault offers a transformative experience for those looking to enhance their natural beauty.
Specializing in eyelash services, eyebrow services, facials, massage & waxing, this hidden gem in the heart of Denison is a must-visit for anyone seeking a touch of glamour. Book your appointment today & discover why this boutique beauty haven is a true standout in the world of beauty services. BrazenBeautyVault.com
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As a family-owned and operated construction company, we take pride in seamlessly blending cutting-edge building technology with meticulous attention to detail. Experience the difference of a builder who values lasting relationships, delivering excellence in every project we undertake.
CITY OF DENISON GIVEN "BREW CITY" DESIGNATION
Denison is an Official Brew City, Texas Destination, a statewide program recognizing cities that are dedicated to craft beer tourism. Denison recently received the “Brew City” designation from the Texas Craft Brewer’s Guild. Many great Denison breweries are proud to be a part of that. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just love a great local brew, there’s never been a better time to explore Denison’s craft beer offerings.
A revitalization effort in downtown Sherman of developments, renovations and upgrades is underway! Urban Sherman is committed to doing its part in rebuilding our classic downtown. Contact us for available
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENTS
With the barrage of headlines featuring wildfires, flooding, hurricanes, and tornadoes, most of us are asking: Am I adequately insured? Most folks look at insurance as a matter of compliance. Generally, mortgage holders require homeowners insurance as a loan condition, and the State of Texas mandates that drivers carry minimum liability insurance to cover possible accidents. What about all of the things that are not covered by these mandates? Nat McClure and his team at State Farm Insurance are available to address these questions and more.
North Texas is notorious for violent weather. Hail storms and tornado warnings appear every spring and continue through the fall. Everyone manages the risk of these “given” events differently. Nat says, “It’s a matter of aggravations versus devastation financially. Premiums are an aggravation; many people get wrapped up in small coverages and forget the larger mission of caring for the potential devastation. With the rising cost of coverage, we would like to get to know our clients, understand what financially ‘stings’ versus what ‘hurts,’ and adjust coverage accordingly. We’re here to help put people’s lives back together when things go bad but in a financially responsible manner.”
Managing insurance costs and risks is a balancing act. What makes sense for a single renter in his or her twenties differs from that same person, married with kids and a home just ten years later. As we navigate the seasons of our lives, our risk profile and finances change. Nat says, “We like maintaining relationships with our clients throughout their lives. By making adjustments to coverage on a regular basis as circumstances evolve, we can optimize their coverage to mirror their needs.” This customer-centric approach to insurance is one of the team's guiding principles.
Insurance isn’t all about replacing or fixing broken or lost things. “My focus is protecting our customers' assets with appropriate liability coverage, and I think it’s the most overlooked piece of the equation,” Nat cautions. “If you wreck your car and it’s worth $10,000 and you are not properly insured, that’s pretty bad. But if you are in a wreck and you injure someone, that could cost $100,000, and that is enough to devastate you.” Life insurance is another area, and since it is not addressed by any mandate, many people find themselves woefully undercovered. It’s not simply about covering the mortgage or funeral costs. CONTINUED
When survivors must return to work, how do they pay for child care and other expenses not part of the day-to-day expenditures, which are now a daunting reality?
To Nat and his team, relationships are everything. “What’s important to me isn’t necessarily important to you,” Nat continued. “Our job is taking care of what’s important
“IT’S A MATTER OF AGGRAVATIONS VERSUS DEVASTATION FINANCIALLY.
ARE AN AGGRAVATION; MANY PEOPLE GET WRAPPED UP IN SMALL COVERAGES AND FORGET THE LARGER MISSION OF CARING FOR THE POTENTIAL DEVASTATION.”
to you, and that’s critical, and it’s why our customers hire us. Anyone can buy insurance online, but in our case, we want to visit with them and develop relationships. That love we share with our customers is vital in helping them prepare for the predictable and unforeseeable.” Many of their customers stop in and pay their bills in the office, not because they have to, but because they want to visit with the team. That connection, sharing what’s happening in each other's lives, helps the team stay abreast of how best to serve their customers and maintain that small-town feel that makes Texoma unique.
That same love extended to customers can also be found amongst the team and toward the community at large. The team has to deal with folks on some of the most challenging days of their lives. Their camaraderie, foundational faith, and the values that stem from that guide them through the daily challenges and enable them to maintain a level of positivity that is contagious. So whether you are concerned about your rates or coverage, the folks at Nat McClure’s State Farm office can help you understand your risks and formulate the best way to mitigate them, given your budget.
Nat@NatMcClure.com (903) 893-9621
SPRING GARDENING
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE ZAPATA
Many Texoma residents are ready for winter to be over and eagerly await the arrival of spring. It is a time for warmer temperatures, kites, sunshine, rain and new beginnings. This is especially so for springtime gardening. As the winter weather leaves the area and the warm spring rains arrive, it is a great time to prepare your gardens for Spring and Summer. Local gardening experts can provide excellent advice for preparing your gardens for beautiful summer blooms and bountiful vegetable harvests. It is essential to realize that a successful garden can happen by starting with some crucial steps.
One thing that is important is to get your garages or storage sheds in order. Having the right tools and equipment can make a big difference in whether your garden succeeds or fails. Start to organize your gardening storage so tools and supplies are easier to find. Ensure your gardening tools are in good repair, and perform the recommended maintenance on them. Oiling hinges and sharpening your blades will make a world of difference as you begin to work in your garden. Sharp blades on shovels and trimmers mean you can cut and dig more easily.
Another item to check off your checklist is to ensure you are stocked with essential supplies. Having ample fertilizers and soil amendments before you start will help you be prepared for when you begin your spring plantings and garden maintenance. Have some extra soil ready to fill low spots and to level problem areas. Check on your compost pile to see if it is prepared for use, or start one if you don’t already have one.
GET GARDEN READY WITH TWIN OAKS NURSERY
Pruning trees and shrubs at this time is a good idea to prepare for those that bloom. Late winter and early spring are great times to prune. Make sure to sterilize your pruners by wiping them down with isopropyl alcohol and a clean towel. This precaution will help avoid any plant diseases.
Preparing your soil and setting up your beds and planters can also be done in the spring. Soil preparation will also make your gardening easier. Remove and clear out weeds, old mulch and any debris that has gathered in the winter. Dead organics can go into your compost pile for later use. Make sure to remove all living weeds. Tilling or turning over your soil is a good idea and an excellent opportunity to introduce some nutrient-rich compost or mulch once the soil is prepared. After tilling well begin to add in your compost and other soil amendments. Test your soil pH and nutrient levels and know what kind of earth you are working with. Here in Texoma, our clay soils can grow a variety of wonderful native and adapted varieties of plants, trees and shrubs.
The Texoma region is fortunate to have quality nurseries here to help residents prepare for every step in readying their spring gardens. Kayla and Corey Albrecht of Twin Oaks Nursery, located at 2107 FM 691 in Denison, are always ready to lend a hand. They are available to assist regardless of your gardening experience level. From advanced gardeners to new homeowners just starting out, they can guide and support you in developing an excellent gardening plan specific to your property. Kayla advises that now is a great time to start your gardens. “There are so many wonderful plants to choose from. I love so many of the trees we have here in the nursery. Shumard red oaks, chinquapin oaks, lacebark elm, globe willows and several varieties of redbuds are some of the great growing trees we carry. We can help you decide which trees will be best for you and offer any professional advice you need.”
Some of her favorite plants that do very well in our area are possumhaw holly, wisteria, Texas sage, and Texas mountain laurel. Kayla also advises new gardeners to know what they put in their gardens. “Make sure you understand how to care for your plants so you can keep them alive and thriving. We offer many great classes here at Twin Oaks Nursery that can help you learn about plants growing well here. We offer classes on gardening, fruit tree care, beekeeping and even goat milk soap making, in addition to many other services. We are always adding classes, and if you need information, we are here to help you! We have a great, knowledgeable staff that really cares about your gardening success. It is so important to us that we take care of our customers.”
2107 FM 691, Denison (903) 463-2205
“WE HAVE A GREAT, KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF THAT REALLY CARES ABOUT YOUR GARDENING SUCCESS.”
SOLDOUT
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Bringing People Together To Build Homes, Communities, And Hope
Most people have heard about Habitat For Humanity, but often, they do not realize the scope of what Habitat For Humanity really encompasses. Laurie Mealy, Director of Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County since 2005, says that there is more to it than just building houses. “There are lots of different components that are involved before we even get to the homebuilding stage. We have so much to do before we can start working on a home. This can involve finding the properties to build on, financing, working with the City to obtain permits or variances, obtaining funding, and finding volunteers and skilled contractors.”
Ms. Mealy states that she first got involved with Habitat For Humanity when she read an article in Time Magazine in 1991, and she has been involved ever since. When asked what drew her to the organization, she says that the organization's mission is so important to her. The mission statement, “Seeking to put God’s love into action,” Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope, really moved her. Habitat for Humanity’s vision statement, “A world where everyone has a decent place to live,” is simple yet equally powerful and important. And she is not alone. The backbone of a strong organization is the community's support and participation.
ARTICLE BY MIKE ZAPATA
Fortunately, according to Ms. Mealy, the organization has some wonderful and giving community partners. Caterpillar and Bobcat are just a few of the large corporations to lend a hand in the organization’s efforts. “Those two businesses bring large groups to our projects. Other local businesses that partner with Habitat for Humanity of Grayson County include Nat McClure - State Farm Insurance Agent, Modern Woodmen of America, First United Bank, Ruiz Foods, First State Bank, Easy Life Realty, Independent Financial, Downtown Sherman Now, Trinity Lighthouse Church, Sherman High School Students, Elevance Health Foundation, Austin College students, Trinity Lutheran Church, and Children’s Chorus of Greater North Texas." These are just a few local businesses and friends Habitat for Humanity of Grayson County has partnered with over the last year. ”We can always depend on these partners
to bring great enthusiasm and effort to our building projects. We can’t thank them enough. We even had one volunteer that contributed over 7000 volunteer hours.” In addition to local businesses providing funds and resources, Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County also operates the ReStore retail facility at 3822 Frisco Road in Sherman, Texas. The store, staffed by volunteers, raises money to fund the mission to build and repair homes in the community. The store
sells gently used building materials and other one-of-a-kind home-related items at a discounted rate to the public.
In addition to building houses, the Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County also helps individuals in need with exterior home repairs. This can be painting, fence repair, yard maintenance and other minor exterior repairs. Of course, all needs and requests must go through a formal process to be reviewed, approved and scheduled. Last year, two homes were constructed, and over ninety-five homes were positively affected by the assistance of Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County. Forty-five houses have been constructed over the years since the affiliate was formed.
Being a faith-based organization, Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County sends ten percent of unrestricted funds raised to other Habitat For Humanity affiliates in undeveloped countries where they can be used to further their mission where funds are not obtained as easily.
Habitat For Humanity of Grayson County is always looking for new partners and volunteers in the community. For more information, visit graysonhabitat.org or email info@graysonhabitat.org.
HERE WE Grow
DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH IN SHERMAN AND DENISON DOWNTOWN AREAS
ARTICLE BY ROGER IRELAND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY MITCHELL
Downtown Sherman and Denison, Texas, have undergone significant revitalization efforts in recent years. These historic areas have transformed into lively commerce, culture, and community engagement centers. Through strategic planning, infrastructure enhancements, and community initiatives, both cities cultivate environments that honor their rich histories while embracing contemporary growth.
Economic development organizations in both cities are actively working to attract and support businesses. The Sherman Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO), a Type A Economic
Development Corporation, primarily promotes industrial development, such as manufacturing, research and development, and business infrastructure. This type of development is complex, takes literally decades to manifest, but generally yields high quality, primary jobs within the community. While this kind of development is crucial to sustaining the population growth headed to our region, it leaves a lot of space for public/private partnerships to assist in championing small business development.
Sherman's downtown has undergone a remarkable transformation, marked by infrastructure upgrades and the emergence of numerous small businesses. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local shops, spas, entertainment venues, and diverse dining options, all contributing to a lively and inviting atmosphere. According to David Downtain of Urban Sherman, “The success of businesses like La Piazza prove the viability of investing in downtown.”
Revitalizing hundred year old buildings with equally aged infrastructure does not come cheap or quickly. “It’s difficult to renovate an historical building as compared to building from scratch in business parks,” laments David. “Fire is a real challenge in these buildings, and it takes a lot of money to bring in the lines to facilitate modern suppression systems. Fortunately, the City of Sherman is an excellent partner. Recent changes to the incentive programs along with the City’s commitment to cover costs for fire lines, sewer, and water infrastructure make retail, restaurant, and entertainment development economically viable.”
Equally important, the City of Sherman has proven itself to be an active partner supporting facade grants and other curb appeal projects to enhance the overall appeal of downtown. David emphasized, “Private/public partnerships are what is making what you see starting to happen around the square possible. The heart of any community is its downtown. With all the growth, holding on to the charm that defines Sherman is characterized by visiting restaurants where the owner stops by your table to chat or shopping in boutiques where the owner knows your size and style. I feel like we’ve turned a corner and in the coming months, you’ll be surprised by all of the changes happening downtown!”
In Denison, the Denison Development Alliance (DDA), Denison’s Type A Economic Development Corporation, focuses on making the city an attractive location for all businesses, industry and
Tony Kaai in Downtown Denison
manufacturing facilities. The DDA provides resources and support to ensure that businesses find relocating to Denison profitable and beneficial. The Denison Development Foundation (DDF), on the other hand, is a non-profit organization focused on providing funding for small businesses, retailers, unique restaurants, and development projects through grants.
These efforts are complemented by private development initiatives, such as the Preston Harbor project near Lake Texoma, which aims to create a master-planned community with various residential products, an active adult community, trails, recreation, and lakeside amenities, further enhancing the region's appeal.
Denison's downtown revitalization is guided by the "Designing Downtown Denison" project, which focuses on reimagining key areas such as Main Street, Touchdown Alley, Heritage Park, and the 700 Block of Main Street. The project emphasizes enhancing connections to local landmarks, improving accessibility, and updating infrastructure. Notable features include updated utilities, ADA accessibility, and water features, which will continue along the entire downtown corridor.
These developments are designed to enhance the downtown experience, making it more accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike. According to Tony Kaai, President of the Denison Development Alliance, “Revitalization efforts take time. The groundwork for the transformation we are enjoying today was laid over 20 years ago. There have been many players acting in concert over many years to bring the kind of quality of development we see on Main Street today to life.”
A recurring theme when discussing downtown development is the role it plays in the identity of a community. “Our downtown exemplifies the character of our community and is a key reason a lot of businesses choose to start or relocate their operations to the area,” says Tony. While enormous effort, incentives, and infrastructure have been invested to bringing companies like GlobalWafers to the area, according to Wyatt Watson, Engineering Director and Project Manager of the new facility in Sherman, “the charm of downtown Denison was a motivating factor in choosing the region for our new plant.”
Creating a vision for revitalization and executing plans of many years is a tall order for any community.
Our downtown exemplifies the character of our community and is a key reason a lot of businesses choose to start or relocate their operations to the area.”
There are myriad factors that are simply out of the control of any public or private entity. In the end, the tenacity of visionaries, the commitment of public officials, the investment of private development firms, and the entrepreneurial spirit of developers and business owners are key ingredients. Without public support, however, no plan will survive the test of time.
Both Sherman and Denison have prioritized community engagement in their downtown development plans. Denison's Main Street program, initiated in 1988 and officially recognized in 1989, has been instrumental in revitalizing the historic downtown area. The program focuses on preserving the city's heritage while promoting economic development.
Downtown Denison is now home to over 300 independently owned businesses and hosts approximately 681 events annually, including art shows, music festivals, and community gatherings. The area features over 150 pieces of public art, contributing to its unique charm and appeal. Downtown Denison’s Main Street has been a semi-finalist for the Great American Main Street Award for the last five cycles (2020, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025), making it one of the top eight downtowns in America for over half a decade. Downtown Denison’s visionary plan through 2030 directs a focused mission for strategic, positive growth.
Similarly, Sherman's comprehensive plan, adopted on October 17, 2022, outlines a vision for future growth and development over the next decade and beyond. The plan emphasizes community involvement and aims to guide the city's evolution while maintaining its historical character.
The revitalization of downtown Sherman and Denison harmoniously combines preserving historical charm with embracing modern development. Through strategic planning, community engagement, and economic initiatives, both cities create dynamic downtown areas that serve as cultural and economic hubs for residents and visitors. As these projects continue to unfold, Sherman and Denison are poised to offer enriched experiences that honor their past while confidently looking toward the future.
David Downtain at La Piazza, Sherman
Michal Overturf
BYOB
(Boots And Bags That Is)
Invest In Quality Fashion At Honeysuckle Rose Boutique
Lauren Bell, Owner
242 E. Jefferson Street, Van Alstyne HoneysuckleRose.com
At just 25 years old, Lauren Bell is the owner of two Honeysuckle Rose boutiques. While attending TCU, Lauren started Honeysuckle Rose on a whim. She began with online sales, which led to her first brick-and-mortar in Van Alstyne in 2019. Lauren opened up her Celina location in 2022. Investing in quality fashion items can be a rewarding approach to building a versatile and lasting wardrobe. When shopping, consider quality over quantity. Invest in items made from high-quality fabrics, such as genuine leather. Well-made items will hold their shape and withstand wear. Lauren Bell, owner of Honeysuckle Rose tells us, “It’s always been at the forefront of my mind when buying and sourcing fashion for the stores that quality products my customer can depend on is paramount. In today’s world, where fast fashion is taking over, and styles change constantly, I think finding companies and artists that create fine goods that are built to last is more important than ever.”
When finding items for Honeysuckle Rose, Lauren says it all comes down to “quality, craftsmanship, and wearability.” She explains, “Whether it be a great pair of boots or a fabulous bag, a handmade product will always be the best! I want our products to be something that is made ethically and responsibly that shoppers can incorporate into their lifestyle.
Lauren’s best advice is to “find something that speaks to you and that you love. Find an amazing pair of boots that show your personality. My favorite pair of boots are bold, which I fell in love with and impulse-bought on the spot. They were an investment piece but something I pull out time and time again! If you love them and wear them, you’ll never regret buying them!
OLD GRINGO BOOTS - FULL BLOOM BOOT
Old Gringo is comin’ in clutch with this epic new design! The Full Bloom Boots boast 18 inches of stunning artwork and craftsmanship that will withstand the test of time and trends. The country western vibes are real, with floral patterns, star shapes, and silver studs.
CONSUELACLASSIC TOTE LILY
The Classic Tote has been our signature Consuela silhouette since the beginning. This colorful tote bag holds its shape while carrying all of the essentials in our durable and easyto-clean ConsuelaCloth™. Just a quick wipe and it’s as good as new!
CONSUELAMARKET TOTE LEO
This eco-friendly Leo tote bag is not only functional but also a stylish statement for those who care about sustainability and convenience. With its generous size and sturdy construction, the Market Tote is designed to carry your groceries, fresh produce, beach essentials, and more.
FRAULEIN BOOTSSAN ANTONIO ROSE SHORTIE WOMENS COWBOY BOOT
Our beloved turquoise San Antonio Rose is now in a shortie! Featuring creme rose details on the side shaft and back heel with gold leather piping, this boot is sure to have heads turnin’ and mouths gapin’ at your cute-as-can-be boots!
LUCCHESE - SAVANNAH BOOT TAN
Gorgeous, soft, supple, mad dog goat leather creates a rich red canvas for this Western stand-out. Handcrafted by expert artisans in Texas, every inch of Savannah is extraordinary. The flattering 12” shaft showcases Lucchese’s iconic stitch detail that adds timeless texture and dimension
CONSUELALUNCHEON MENA
Whether it’s brunch plans or a night on the town, the Luncheon is along for the adventure. Petite in size yet spacious enough for your everyday essentials. Carry this bag by the leather top handles or by your side with the crossbody strap.
A M OTHER’S
MIS SION
When Owen was three years old, he was diagnosed with autism. Just like any mother would, Brina Dutton began the search for the next steps in her son’s journey. Little did she know the path it would lead her down. Now the proud owner and founder of The Owen Foundation and The Owen Academy, Brina has become a local advocate for children with special needs like her son. However, she said the climb has been mostly uphill to get here.
“When Owen was diagnosed, his physician recommended that he had 40 hours a week of ABA therapy and I had no clue what that was, so we researched it,” Brina said.
After researching, Brina found no local facilities. Living in Sherman, she discovered the nearest therapy center was in McKinney, and the time spent with weekly trips
ARTICLE BY KATELYN BRISCOE
FOU NDING THE OWEN ACADEMY AND ADVOCATING FOR TEXOMA
CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
to therapy was substantial. So, Brina made a sacrifice: she closed her children's boutique to drive Owen to therapy. Brina shifted her focus to her son’s love for basketball.
“He absolutely loved basketball,” Brina said. “He was obsessed with it. He always had a basketball in his hand.”
This passion inspired her to create The Owen Foundation in 2021, initially to host an annual basketball camp. The nonprofit now hosts events for children with special needs, with their fourth annual basketball camp scheduled for this upcoming July.
“The first year, we had over 60 kids, and every year since, over 100 kids,” Brina shared.
The camp is a one-on-one experience, with one volunteer assigned to each child. The Foundation and other businesses of hers have grown to include an autism conference, a 5K, a cheer clinic, and a partnership with Texoma FC to offer a soccer camp, starting this year.
Brina didn’t stop there. Wanting more accessible ABA therapy for local families, she attended an event in Dallas with 30-40 ABA companies in 2022, convincing one to open a facility in Sherman. She told them she was confident they’d be full within 60 days. This led to The Owen Academy, providing ABA therapy for Texoma children.
“I had so many parents who would reach out to me throughout the day [looking for local ABA
therapy],” Brina said. “After continuing to pray about it and figuring out the business structure, we decided to open an ABA facility, and that is The Owen Academy.”
In addition to opening the Academy, Brina continues to advocate for children with special needs and their families through the Foundation’s proposal of The Owen Alert Act: a bill that would automatically implement alerts for children with autism who go missing, given that children on the spectrum are attracted to bodies of water and unaware they are putting themselves in danger.
“Of course, it's for the kids, but it's just as much for the parents,” Brina said. “Going through the diagnosis process with our son was a very dark time for us and being able to shine a light like that for parents who didn't feel like they had resources or connections before and felt very alone, is the most rewarding part of this work.”
TheOwenFoundation.org TheOwenAcademy.com
2025 SOCCER CAMP IN PARTNER WITH TEXOMA FC Historic Bearcat Stadium June 20-21
All-Inclusive
Register Your Child or Volunteer at TheOwenFoundation.org
2025 CHEER CLINIC Grayson College July 10-11
All-Inclusive
Register Your Child or Volunteer at TheOwenFoundation.org
2025 BASKETBALL CLINIC Grayson College July 10-11
All-Inclusive
Register Your Child or Volunteer at TheOwenFoundation.org
events
APRIL 4TH
Pottsboro City Wide Garage Sale
AROUND POTTSBORO | 8:00 AM
Mark your calendars! Check out over seventy garage sales across the city of Pottsboro on April 4-5. Sales happen rain, shine and everything in between. Register on the Pottsboro Area Chamber of Commerce website to be listed on the map and to check out all of the local businesses and homes participating. PottsboroChamber.com
APRIL 5TH
Texoma FC Vs. Naples FC
BEARCAT STADIUM | 7:00 PM
Come out to the Historic Bearcat Stadium for Texoma FC's inaugural season. Texoma FC is the area's first professional soccer team and plays in the USL League One. Bring out the whole family and watch as Texoma FC takes on Naples FC on April 5th. TexomaFC.com
APRIL 11TH
Spa 31 Celebration
SPA 31, SHERMAN | 5:30 PM
Spa 31 is celebrating a decade of community, care, and connection. Join them for the celebration of providing the Texoma Community self-assurance and relaxation through beauty and spa services! Drop in for treats & celebration, featuring artisanal desserts, luxury beauty gifts, and special surprises! Spa31.com
APRIL 17TH
Walt and Tina Wilkins Live!
OLD QUAIL RUN FARM | 6:00 PM
Come out and enjoy live music from this talented duo. Walt and Tina Wilkins are known for their soulful performances that will leave you wanting more. Don't miss out on this special event at Old Quail Run Farm. Grab your friends and family for a night of great music and fantastic food. See you there! OldQuailRunFarm.com
APRIL 26TH
Texoma Earth Day Festival
405 N RUSK, SHERMAN | 8:00 AM
The Texoma Earth Day Festival is a community-wide event where ordinary people learn practical ways to reduce their impact on our planet. Attendance is free and open to the public. The event will kick off with a Friends of the Library Book Sale and host several recycling opportunities and, of course, live entertainment and fun family activities. EarthDayTexoma.org
APRIL 26TH
Great Bowls Of Fire
903 BREWERS, SHERMAN | 12:00 PM
Come on out to 903 Brewers for the 8th annual chili and salsa competition! This event hosted by Grayson County Child Welfare Board benefits foster children and families in Grayson County. A fun time is guaranteed with live music, raffle items, and a live auction. For more information on tickets, sponsoring or competing, visit GraysonCountyChildWelfareBoard.org
