35 West Magazine December 2021

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2022

Direct Mailed to the Following Areas:

Northlake - Justin - Roanoke (Canyon Falls - Harvest)

CONNECTIONS WELLNESS GROUP A Team that Cares

www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977

Home Decorating: Ask The Expert

outdoor

by Allison Fifer, POSH Home Staging & Redesign

G

athering with family and friends outdoors may at first seem too chilly in the winter, but adding in the flickering flames of a roaring firepit changes everything. Bundling up in the warmth under the stars is a feeling that few can refuse. It’s one that could take you back to your childhood, your love of s’mores, or perhaps a quaint camping trip with a loved one or just the joy of being with friends. Any way you stack it up, bonding takes place as we gather together.

Just like indoors, your outdoor space relies on form and function. Be sure to consider its primary use…is it for simple

for sharing

family enjoyment, gathering with larger groups of friends, or more essential needs such as cooking. This can be simple or very involved. The aura of the space will set the tone for each visit to this special space.

Additionally, seating should be a careful consideration. Take into account how many people you typically share this space with. You want to be able to accommodate the larger gathering just as you would a smaller one. You can choose from a simple rocker to Adirondack chairs to cushioned seating. Either way, one can always pull up extra seating when necessary. Creating a conversational setting is key.

The style of your pit can range from stationary to portable. All firepits should be set up at least 10 feet away from your home or other structures. You can use a simple portable firepit for ease of setup and storage, or build a permanent ring of stone or use a metal ring for a more authentic feel of the great outdoors.

No matter the form or function you choose, bonding will ensue as you spend more time in your outdoor space with family and friends.

940.765.2684 | POSHHOMESTAGING.COM | ALLISON@POSHHOMESTAGING.COM

TABLE OF

Contents ASK THE EXPERTS 03 Home Decorating with POSH Home Staging & Redesign

10

Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dentistry

ARTICLES 08

10 Hot Places To Spend New Year’s

11

The Hearts That Give

12

Merry Mantels

14

5 Creative Ways To Re-gift

17

Tips To Help Keep Kids Safe

21

5 Things To Do

22

The History of New Years

24

Tis The Season For Holiday Events Countywide

26

Fashion Guide 2021

28

A Heart For The Community

30

When The Holidays Are Over

PAGE

18

CONNECTIONS WELLNESS GROUP A Team that Cares Cover Image: Yancey Grimes, LPC, LCDC and Anna Arwine, LPC

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 5

Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Holidays REFLECTIONS

& FRIENDS

A

s I sat at the kitchen table to go over a few lastminute details before giving the OK to publish this month’s issue, I couldn’t help but peer over at my husband, Scott.

We were in Utah celebrating his 50th birthday and had just finished a big meal with friends and family. He had this huge smile on his face — like a kid in a candy store.

“What are you smiling about?” I asked with a laugh.

“It was just a really good night,” he said. “Now we’re both hard at work again.”

We were just kids when we got married and started our publishing journey all those years ago. And I can’t tell you how many times this same scenario played out where one or the both of us would be burning the midnight oil at the last minute, desperately trying to make sure everything was perfect before going to press. I wouldn’t change any of it.

And neither would Scott.

I bring this up because, well, it’s the holiday season, and I’m feeling extra grateful. I’m grateful for my 50-year-old hubby, who has been the best business partner I could ask for — and an even better husband and father. I’m also grateful for the friends and family who refuse to miss a single celebration.

No matter how busy we all get with “life,” we never let anything get in the way of holiday traditions.

Lastly, I’m grateful for the ability to reflect on so many great memories. It’s been a fun ride, and the best part is that it is far from over.

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Editor & Writer Steve Gamel

Writers

Caylie Howard, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Mark Miller

Advertising Inquiries

sales@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Michele Cunningham-Scott Cayla Thompson Arynn Tomson Caleb Tynes

Photography

Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Photography by Guy T Miranda Longoria Photography Live Beautifully Photography

Letters

35 West Magazine invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 35 West Magazine is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. 35 West Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2021 Murray Media Group

Thanks for reading our latest issue!

Sincerely, Kelly Murray www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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HOT

PLACES

TO SPEND NEW YEAR’S

1. LUCKENBACH

Luckenbach is a fun place to dance your way into the New Year. At the Luckenbach Dance Hall, you can enjoy the town’s New Year’s festivities, such as live music, dancing, and even a midnight toast!

2. SOUTH PADRE ISLAND If you’re looking for an exciting New Year’s Eve experience, look no further than South Padre Island. With the small town’s fireworks that light up the sky along with their many events and parties, you’re sure to have a fantastic New Year’s.

3. AUSTIN Our state’s capital always rings in the New Year in style. You can experience the amazing fireworks over Ladybird Lake. And Gatsby House at the Omni has a roaring 20’s party!

It’s always a good New Year’s Eve when you choose Austin.

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4. GRUENE The famous Gruene Hall is a must when it comes to ringing in the New Year. They have live music, dancing, food, and champagne to toast. However, due to New Braunfels liquor laws prohibiting alcohol sales past midnight, Gruene celebrates the New Year at 11 pm.

5. GALVESTON Galveston always shows up to impress on New Year’s Eve. From the Downtown Lanterns to Lights in Saengerfest Park you’re sure to have a rocking good time. And you can’t

forget the fantastically good times at Midnight in the Gardens New Year’s Eve Gala at Moody Gardens!

6. DALLAS Dallas is full of lights and good times on New Year’s. Unfortunately, it looks as if the city’s

annual celebration Big D NYE won’t be making its grand come back. But there’s no need to worry. Dallas is known for its amazing parties and festivities on every corner.

7. SAN ANTONIO If ‘Celebrate San Antonio’ isn’t on your bucket list to experience, it should be. The festival offers live music, amazing entertainment, as well as the best food that San Antonio can offer. And you won’t want to miss their midnight firework show!

8. FORT WORTH Fort Worth always offers a cowboy good time on New Year’s. Billy Bob’s Texas and Bar

Louie always go all out with their New Year’s Eve parties. Fort Worth is the best place to ring in the New Year with all of your favorite people.

10. GRAPEVINE Kick-off the New Year Gatsby style at Hotel Vin in Grapevine. You can enjoy a five-course meal, drinks, and a night of “gambling”, with wonderfully fun live music to dance to. And you can’t forget the champagne toast at midnight! You’ll have a ball in Grapevine for New Year’s Eve!

9. HOUSTON Houston is a sure-fire way to have a good time ringing in the New Year. With all of the parties, galas, and festivities that take place all over the city, you’re sure to find the perfect place to watch the ball drop with all of your favorite people! www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 9

Ask The Expert: Dentistry

KICKING OFF

2022 with a T he New Year will soon be upon us, and with that comes new opportunities for declarations of

improvement and resolve. As we usher

into the new year with innovative notions of self-development, the team

at Country Lakes Family Dental would

like to encourage all resolution enthusiasts to take on the New Year with a smile!

Believe it or not, making the New Year

bright could be as simple as beginning with a smile.

Smile

technology and advancements that make

improving your dental health comfortable and predictable.

Your smile, like your health, is

undoubtedly an invaluable quality to

your state of being. And like so many

resolutions, sometimes dental care can

easily fall to the wayside. To curb that, we use the current advancements in digital technology and software, along with

thorough planning, to create a smile that is not only efficient but predictable.

We are brimming with ways to help you

Your individual goals can be

improve your look and health beyond

simple as a cleaning with whitening or

achieve that goal with different ways to

the typical methods of straightening your teeth and whitening your smile. As our

patients know, our office boasts the latest

So, as the Holidays and New Year bring new campaigns of exercise regimens and steadfast dietary choices, these newfound determinations should be met with tenacity, enthusiasm, and, most of all, a smile! Venturing into 2022, you can rest assured our team will help you smile with ease!

by Dr. Matt Artho owner of Country Lakes Family Dental CountryLakesDental.com

accomplished through treatment as

can be multifactorial by incorporating

cosmetic, orthodontic, or even implant dental treatment.

by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental 940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226

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Unfortunately, not every family will get to experience that excitement and participate in the scrumptious traditions. For some families, even in our own county, Christmas will be another day. Santa won’t be coming down the chimney to leave presents under the tree and there will be no grand holiday meal to enjoy around the table.

The Roanoke Food Pantry has set out, not only during the holidays but year round, to give their local community the opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas.

the that

HEARTS

GIVE

by Caylie Howard

The holidays are a time for quality time with family and friends and being thankful for what has been received throughout the year. However, often times the reason for the season can get lost in the holiday shopping, the festive baking, and the presents under the tree.

The Roanoke Food Pantry is a 501©3 organization that assists families in need year round. Even though they primarily see and assist women and children, they do help any and all members of their community that are in need. Most of the families that the Roanoke Food Pantry assist are residents of the NISD area, however, currently, at this time they aren’t able to serve the residents of Justin. But if you live in Justin there’s no need to worry. The Roanoke Food Pantry is able to provide you with the contact information for local support in your area.

The Roanoke Food Pantry helps provide, on average, around 75 families a month with food as well as items such as clothing, health and hygiene supplies, medical and dental care, and utility payments.

It comes as no surprise that the Christmas season is the food pantry’s busiest time of year. They often help more than twice the average amount of families in need.

Their overall goal is to provide each family with a full Christmas dinner through their Christmas Basket program.

They also aim to ensure that each child in the area has a very merry Christmas. To achieve this, they host their annual Adopt-A-Child program. Both of these programs solely rely on the generosity of the communities donations.

With the help of our local community, the Roanoke Food Pantry is changing the lives of our local residents in need every single day. Thanks to their passion and commitment to bringing the holiday spirit to everyone in Roanoke, it’s safe to say that this year more families will have a merry Christmas and happier holidays.

For ways to donate, visit Roanokefoodpantry.org Or call 817.491.4451 108 Pecan Street, Roanoke, TX 76262

There’s really not much better than seeing a little child’s eyes light up with joy as they open their gift from Santa that they had been hoping to receive since they wrote it on their list.

And you can’t forget the Christmas feast. Every Christmas movie you watch includes some form of this delicious social gathering. It seems to be a common holiday tradition in many households. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 11

MANTELS

by Caylie Howard

With stockings hung by the chimney with care, it’s safe to say that the mantel is a centerpiece for all things Christmas décor. There are so many different ways and styles to make your mantel merry and bright this holiday season. A staple in all things Christmas decorating is the classic holiday garland.

There are so many different types of garland to choose from. No matter what is in your color wheel for the holidays this year, you can be sure that there is a garland that will fit perfectly into your theme.

Garland is commonly used to be wrapped around your banisters, however, it’s also

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a fantastic way to spruce up your mantel and bring the spirit of Christmas to the room. Having the festive Christmas garland as your base of mantel décor really helps to add dimension to your display. By adding differently sized and shaped décors such as elves, trees, nutcrackers, ornaments, and candles, you bring a bright and joyful essence to your space.

One fun way to dress up your mantel is by adding lighted garland. This is a great option to add ambiance to the room in the evening. With the lights shining from your festive mantel as you relax by the fire watching your favorite Christmas movie,

you are sure to truly feel the spirit of Christmas.

Having a jolly and joyful holiday mantel truly helps to tie your holiday space together. And with holiday garland, you’re sure to impress with your merry mantel this Christmas season. But no matter how you choose to decorate your mantel this Christmas, remember to give, love, and be thankful for the year’s blessings with your family and friends during this Christmas season. Have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

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LITHIUM COIN

BATTERIES

Lithium coin batteries are found in many household devices. They are

small, about the size of a nickel, and if swallowed can cause serious harm. Select lithium coin products with safety features such as child secure packaging, and when available, a non-toxic bitter coating designed to help discourage swallowing.

TIPS

to HELP keep kids SAFE

COMMON HOUSEHOLD DEVICES WITH LITHIUM COIN BATTERIES: Key Finders Home Security Devices Remote Controls Wireless Doorbells Key Fobs Kitchen Scales Weight Scales Thermometers String Lights

by Dr. Rebecca Butler (Lantana Resident), Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

FOUR SIMPLE STEPS Look for loose batteries. Get down to your child’s eye level to see what they see. Look in couch cushions, on low tables and shelves, or any other areas that a child can reach.

Keep batteries in a secure compartment, up high and out of a child’s reach.

Secure battery compartments by tightening the screws or securing them with tape. Tape could ensure the compartment does not accidentally open.

Keep a watchful eye. Toddlers and young children are curious by nature so close supervision is key.

If you suspect your child has ingested a lithium coin or other small battery, take your child immediately to an emergency room. Your child may not show symptoms at first, but a lithium coin battery can cause a harmful chemical reaction and burn the esophagus within a few hours.

This can be life-threatening. An x-ray can properly diagnose unintentional ingestion. If you are not able to drive, call 911 for help.

940.455.7200 | LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm Fri: 7:30am-5pm | Sat: 9am-12pm www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 17

A

by Caylie Howard | photography by What’s That Guy’s Name? Photography by Guy T

t Connections Wellness Group, their motto is “connecting people to what matters most”, and it’s safe to say that they achieve that every day. Therapist, owner, and CEO, Awstin Gregg MBA, LCSW, LCDC, founded Connections Wellness Group almost four years ago and has already seen great success.

Connections Wellness Group is focused on providing quality care immediately.

The entire team at Connections Wellness is committed to offering the care that each individual needs and desires. “We realize that medication and therapy are not for everyone, so we also offer a holistic approach for those that prefer it,” Anna Arwine, LPC, said. Anna is the Group Executive Director for four of the Connections Wellness locations, including Arlington, Keller, Mansfield, and Southlake.

Connections Wellness truly does offer any type of therapy and treatment that you could need. “We also offer a dietician at our facilities. We believe in focusing and treating the whole self,” Anna said.

Connections Wellness in Southlake is the Practice’s newest location. “Our focus in Southlake is treating adults with mental health concerns. We also offer specialty treatment in the area of substance abuse,” Executive Director Yancey Grimes, LPC, LCDC, said.

At Connections Wellness, their amazing team treats adults by offering therapy, psychiatry, Partial Hospitalization 18 | 35 WEST | DECEMBER 2021

Programming (PHP) as well as Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP). “For our PHP and IOP services, we offer in-house treatment from 9 am – 1 pm, with plans to offer treatments later in the day,” Yancey said. Connections Wellness also offers virtual IOP for those that aren’t comfortable meeting face to face due to the pandemic or other concerns.

The Southlake location chose to include a substance abuse specialty due to the passion that Yancey has for this particular need. When the board leaders approached Yancey about adding a specific treatment focus, it was an easy decision for him to make. “This is my specialty,” Yancey said.

“We also look to see if the patient needs social support. Have they cut off the people that are going to help them through their journey? What are their family and home life like? We look at what makes them who they are and then we use that to facilitate positive change in their lives,” Yancey said.

The entire Connections Wellness Group team is thrilled to announce that the

Connections Wellness Group truly is a one-of-a-kind healing experience. That fact is not only apparent to their patients but even to the diligent staff. “I’ve worked at a lot of places that don’t have anything close to what we have,” Yancey said.

Connections Wellness in Southlake not only has therapists in place to help aid their patients in their healing but also to help guide them through the process.

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Southlake location is already up and running. “We recently had our ribbon cutting with the Southlake Chamber of Commerce and it was a great success,” Anna said. After spending two months treating patients virtually, they are now accepting in-person patients.

Connections Wellness Group has been a fire starter in mental and emotional healing since they opened their doors almost four years ago. With their highly trained staff that is committed to offering the best support in their field, as well as their extensive list of healing methods to fit every patient’s needs, it’s easy to see why Connections Wellness is held in such high regard. They truly are a team that cares.

2701 Shoreline Dr., Denton, TX 76210 940.222.2399 ConnectionsWellnessGroup.com www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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Things 5TO DO

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER CONTEST A great way to spice up a Christmas Party is by adding in an ugly Christmas sweater contest. Each guest can either buy new, use an oldie but goodie, or even create their own. And the uglier the sweater the funnier it is. This is a fantastic way to liven up any party. You could even have a festive prize for the winner.

CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING

ORNAMENT EXCHANGE

A fun Christmas Party activity to do with your friends is to decorate Christmas cookies. Everyone at your party is sure to have a ball designing the festive treats.

Not to mention the delicious snacks they’ll make after. If you’re not a baker, no worries! There are tons of local businesses that will sell them to you to decorate.

Do you ever debate on the best gifts for your friends to exchange at a party? Why not make it a game and do an ornament exchange. Each guest can pick out a cute ornament that they’d like to bring and add to the fun of the party. It’s always fun to play and everyone leaves a winner.

WRAPPING PARTY Is there anyone out there that waits until the very last minute to wrap their Christmas gifts? Why not have a lastminute wrapping party? Have all of your friends get together for an evening of food, drinks, and last-minute gift wrapping. Having fun with your friends will make the task much more enjoyable.

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CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON Who doesn’t love a good Christmas movie? And there are so many to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of the classics, animation, or even the newer releases, with a Christmas movie marathon everyone will enjoy the party. Don’t forget the festive holiday movie theater snacks!

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 21

P

eople from all around the world have been celebrating New Year’s for at least four millennia. In today’s society, most of the New Year’s festivities begin on New Year’s Eve which falls on December 31st and continue on into the early hours of New Year’s Day, which is January 1st.

by Caylie Howard

People ring in the New Year in different ways around the globe, but the most common celebrations and traditions are attending parties, eating special New Year’s foods, making resolutions for the New Year, and watching the ball drop at midnight in Times Square.

The earliest recorded New Year’s celebrations date back almost 4,000 years ago to ancient Babylon. The Babylonians marked the occasion with a huge religious festival called Akitu that consisted of a different ritual on each of its 11 days.

Many people participate in the New Year’s tradition of enjoying food and snacks that are believed to bring you good luck in the New Year. In Spain, people eat a dozen grapes right before midnight. This symbolizes their hopes for the months ahead.

Some New Year’s traditional food is more commonly known and practiced throughout the world such as legumes. They are thought to resemble coins and are believed to bring you financial success in the New Year. Some examples of these legumes include lentils in Italy and black-eyed peas in the southern United States.

In some worldly cultures, pigs represent progress and prosperity. Because of this, pork is a common New Year’s tradition in places such as Cuba, Austria, Hungary, and Portugal.

In places such as the Netherlands, Mexico, and Greece they celebrate by eating ring-shaped cakes and pastries, while in Sweden and Norway they enjoy rice pudding with a hidden almond inside. It’s believed that whoever finds the almond will receive a year’s worth of good fortune.

With so many different traditions and ways to celebrate the New Year, it’s safe to say that this holiday’s history and festivities are special all around the world.

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TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS

COUNTYWIDE

by Denton County Judge Andy Eads photo courtesy of Judge Andy Eads

O

Lighting Ceremony 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Parade: Spinks Road to Gerault Park; Events: Gerault Park Reindeer Run 5k & Grinch Sprint 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Bakersfield Park Breakfast with Santa 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 11, 2021 Flower Mound Community Activity Multipurpose Rooms FRISCO

ur area is rich with tradition during the holidays. Many of the festivals are outdoors with lots of activities for young and old alike such as Aubrey’s Small Town Family Christmas on Dec. 3-4 at the Old Downtown Aubrey Festival Grounds or the Justin Old Town Christmas on Dec. 11 in the center of that community.

There is also the well-known annual Holiday Lighting Festival on Dec. 3 surrounding our Courthouse-on-the-Square in Downtown Denton.

And, of course, you can’t miss the 32nd annual Town of Flower Mound Christmas Parade of Lights at Lexington and Spinks Road to Gerault Park. This year’s theme is “The North Pole.” At Gerault Park, a tree lighting ceremony with fireworks begins at 7:20 p.m. with choir performances, photos with Santa, kids’ activities, food trucks, local vendors, and more also available on Dec. 4. The Flower Mound Summit Club will be accepting canned good donations along the parade route to benefit CCA. We compiled this list of holiday celebrations so that you can plan your seasonal calendar to join in the fun with friends and family.

AUBREY A Small Town Family Christmas Dec. 3, 2021 – Dec. 4, 2021 Old Downtown Aubrey Festival Grounds Family Storytime with Santa

30th Annual Merry Main Street 3:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Simpson Plaza JUSTIN Justin Old Town Christmas 9 a.m. on Dec. 11, 2021 Old Town Justin KRUM Krumtry Christmas Parade & Chili Supper

4:15 p.m. on Dec. 7, 2021 Aubrey Area Library

6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Chili Supper, following the parade, Krum High School Cafeteria

CARROLLTON

LAKE DALLAS

Santa on the Square

Lighting Up The Season

4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Historic Downtown Carrollton

5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Lake Dallas City Hall

DENTON

LANTANA

Denton Holiday Lighting Festival

Lantana’s Holiday Market & Festival

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 3, 2021 Courthouse-on-the-Square

3 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Dec. 11, 2021 Lantana Town Green

Annual Argyle Christmas Tree Lighting Festival

FLOWER MOUND

LEWISVILLE

4 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Cross Timbers Church Parking Lot

32nd annual Town of Flower Mound Christmas Parade of Lights and Tree

Old Town Holiday Stroll & Christmas Parade

ARGYLE

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you.

940.349.2820 | andy.eads@dentoncounty.com | www.Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup 24 | 35 WEST | DECEMBER 2021

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8 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Wayne Ferguson Plaza LITTLE ELM Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony 6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Little Elm Park PILOT POINT Christmas on the Square 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Pilot Point Historic Square PROSPER Prosper Christmas Festival 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Prosper Town Hall ROANOKE Roanoke’s Hometown Holiday 12 p.m. on Dec. 4, 2021 Roanoke City Hall SANGER 4 Days of Christmas Dec. 7, 2021 – Dec. 10, 2021 Downtown Sanger THE COLONY Holiday in the Park 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 Perryman Park, 4930 South Colony Blvd.

TROPHY CLUB Christmas in the Park 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 11, 2021 Independence Park East

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FASHION GUIDE 2021 photos courtesy of each respective business

MEGAN’S LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE

972.899.4060 4021 Waller Creek, #160 Highland Village, TX 75077 Festive for the upcoming season, this rose gold chevron dress designed

by Veronica M, is one our favorites.

The flattering neckline, long sleeves and above the knee cut makes this the perfect party dress. The dress can be worn with or without the belt tied at the waist and with a fun pair of boots.

This beautiful print is also available as a top. Megan’s Lifestyle Boutique offers its patrons everything from party to casual chic clothes to lounge wear. Plus we have the perfect bags, shoes and jewelry to match.

Located in The Shops at Highland Village.

Come see us! Thank you for shopping small and local!

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BRIESLEY’S BOUTIQUE

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

MADIJAKS

817.581.2743 brieslysboutique.com 2451 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 160 Flower Mound, TX 75022

972.539.4800 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste 810 Flower Mound, TX 75028

817.965.0648 400 S Oak St., Ste. 110 Roanoke, TX 76262

Ahh, Winter! This season brings us lasting memories with the holidays, playing in the snow (if we are lucky!) and getting cozy by the fireplace. Your fashion choices can also bring you joy! If you look good, you feel good! Our Texas weather is perfect for layering as shown here. Stay on-trend while not sacrificing comfort in this tie dye pullover. Style with buttery soft black denim from our exclusive brand, Mac and Me and a trendy, chunky bootie. Don’t forget to throw on that cute pom pom beanie before heading out the door for that effortless girl-on-the-go look!

Come visit mother-daughter team, Susan and Maddie, for all your winter wardrobe needs!

MadiJaks is a women’s clothing and gift boutique conveniently located in Downtown Roanoke.

The Model is wearing our Claudette Jacket, which features a removable collar for a more sleek feel and who doesn’t love a piece that’s two looks in one. We paired her gorgeous jewel green jacket with black skinny jeans and the Hearts On Fire Necklace. Skip the mall and support local for all the best pieces this holiday season. Stylish tops, custom jewelry and great gifts. Shop local, shop Briesly’s Boutique.

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We offer a collection of unique, affordable, and on-trend items that are handpicked with our customers in mind. We strive to bring our customers captivating, fashionable pieces that encourage them to live with confidence.

Our Adeline wrap dress is style and comfort all wrapped into one! The loose fit, wrap waist, and mid-thigh length allows you to be comfortable for your entire event and looking great while partying the night away! Pair with a pair of our white boots or heels to accent the details in the dress!

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DENTON COUNTY SPOTLIGHT

A Heart

for the Community

by Caylie Howard | photos courtesy of Rob Veal, President and CEO of Heart of the City

I

t’s not uncommon for people to fall on hard times, especially in the last two years. No matter what the circumstances may be, the struggle is still the same. In times of need, it can be difficult for people to reach out and ask for help for themselves and their family. Many people have a fear of being judged or being looked down upon simply because of their difficult situations. At Heart of the City, they truly do care for the people of their community and they make it their mission to treat every person that walks through their doors as a valued member of society.

Heart of the City truly does try to meet all of the community’s needs. They offer food supply, clothing, and life counseling on how to get out of the situation

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these people are in and better their lives. “Heart of the City is a big umbrella and under that are three different major programs. One is the Farmers Market Food Pantry, the second is Graham’s

Totally Free Clothing, and the third part is called Thrive where we do life skills coaching.” Rob Veal, President and CEO of Heart of the City, said.

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Heart of the City truly does try to meet all of the community’s needs. They offer food supply, clothing, and life counseling on how to get out of the situation these people are in and better their lives.

Heart of the City was born in 2019 and the nonprofit just celebrated 2 years of giving quality help service to the community in need. However, the idea of Heart of the City came to be in 2009. “It took me, personally, about 10 years to be able to get into a position where I had the time to do this. So in January of 2019 I stood in front our church and said, ‘God’s leading me to start this and I need two people to help’ and a couple of senior adults in their seventies say ‘we’ll plug in and help’,” Rob said.

The first thing that Heart of the City did was hold a free clothing giveaway.

“Everyone has extra clothes in their closets, so everyone brought clothes and we gave them to the community and that’s how we began to establish links in the community,” Rob said.

A couple of months after their free clothing giveaway, the nonprofit began to raise funds for an office expansion. “In four different dinners we raised $42,000 to remodel our building and make the food pantry,” Rob said.

“October 28th, 2019 was our first day to serve,” Rob said. The goal for the Farmers Market Food Pantry was to serve around 200 to 300 families a month. But then COVID hit. “The whole world shut down, but we never did. We actually reprogrammed everything and started serving at people’s cars, and when we did that, were serving an excess of 250 families every Saturday. We exponentially grew,” Rob said. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

Heart of the City has designed their facility to make each person that walks through their door feel like they are getting a true, high end shopping experience. When you step into the Farmers Market Food Pantry, you truly feel like you are walking through a grocery store. When you walk through the Door of Hope in Graham’s Totally Free Clothing, you feel as if you are strolling through a local boutique.

Every experience you have at Heart of the City is made to make you feel valued and important, which is just one of the things that make Heart of the City such a special part of our community.

They serve all of south Denton County.

To learn more about Heart of the City and how to volunteer, visit heartofthecitylewisville.com

Heart of the City Lewisville is located at 2021 N. Mill St., Lewisville TX 75057.

DECEMBER 2021 | 35 WEST | 29

OVER WHEN THE HOLIDAYS ARE

IT’S TIME TO CLEAN UP!

A

by Debbie Sardone

fter all the excitement of the holidays — spending quality time with family and friends, enjoying

delicious food and drink, and giving and

receiving presents — your happy glow can

•

and you have to deal with the cleanup.

Hopefully, you’ve been cleaning as you

go, so that this tip isn’t a surprise for you.

received replacements for.

•

a trip and get rid of old items that you

When you take down a string of lights,

Hire a professional service to clean

or a piece of cardboard to keep them

Let’s face it — all the spills in the kitchen and

wrap them around a paper towel tube

December.

can be challenging, but these tips will help

Clean as you go

time you spend decorating next year.

untangled and easy to unravel next

Getting your home back into tip-top shape

you’re left behind with the mess.

Goodwill with unwanted gifts, save yourself

phone. The images will cut down the

quickly disappear when guests are gone

when your guests and gifts are gone, and

save the pictures to an album on your

Label your holiday bins with the specific room or area where you use those

decorations and lights. Pack and unpack them accordingly.

your home

increased traffic through the bathrooms

left your home a mess. Instead of bravely

facing the task of cleaning this by yourself, hire a cleaning company like Bucket & Bows Maid Service to deep clean your house.

Let the professionals tackle cleaning kitchen cabinets, stove, oven, countertops, floors,

Deal with holiday cards

dusting and vacuuming the living areas,

pots, utensils, dishes, and cutting boards

Collect all the holiday cards that arrived

house back in shape. What a great way to

or glasses on the counter, put them in the

received cards from. You can use this as a

As you prepare the holiday meal, wash the as you go. Instead of stacking dirty dishes dishwasher immediately.

in the mail and make a list of who you

starting point for next year’s holiday card list.

Take down the holiday lights

Then toss those cards in the recycling bin,

Make next year easier on yourself when you

and counters from the festive clutter.

and decorations

clean up this year’s decorations.

•

Take pictures of your lights and

decorations. Then print them out

and put them in your holiday bins, or

immediately clearing your mantle Get rid of unwanted gifts

Don’t feel guilty if you received a gift

that you don’t want. Return it, donate it, or

re-gift it. And since you’re already headed to

cleaning toilets and sinks, and getting your usher in the new year!

Smile ... and Relax

Remember how great it feels when the

holidays are over and the cleanup is done?

When you aren’t sidestepping twinkling

Santas in the foyer, and you realize how big

your rooms really are? Get the whole family involved. Order in some pizzas or subs and

dance to some happy music. Happy holidays, and don’t sweat the cleanup!

Debbie Sardone is the president and owner of Buckets & Bows Maid Service and a popular national speaker on all things cleaning.

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