Issuu

BARBECUE WITH THE BOYS

A Gentle Reminder for the Gentlemen Among Us

When I think about what it means to be a “gentleman,” I don’t think about titles, status, or even outward success. I think about character. I think about consistency. I think about the quiet, everyday ways someone shows up for the people they love. For me, that reflection begins at home.

I am endlessly grateful for my husband, Gary Burns. Gary leads our family with a steady kind of strength rooted in integrity, patience, and love. He doesn’t just talk about values, he lives them. Whether it’s through the way he handles challenges, supports our family, or simply shows up day after day, he sets the tone for what leadership truly looks like. It’s not loud or boastful; it’s intentional, grounded, and deeply felt.

And then there’s our son, Jaxx.

At 12 years old, he’s at that beautiful, impressionable stage of life where he’s watching everything, absorbing more than we realize, and beginning to shape his understanding of the world and his place in it. It’s incredible to witness, and it’s also a powerful reminder of how important strong male role models are for the next generation.

Young men like Jaxx are learning not just from what they’re told, but from what they see. They’re learning how to treat others, how to handle adversity, how to lead, and how to love. That responsibility doesn’t fall on just one person, it belongs to all of us as a community.

This Gentleman’s Issue is a celebration of the men who are showing up in meaningful ways, fathers, mentors, coaches, business leaders, and friends who are choosing to lead with character. It is also a gentle call to action.

Who are the young men in your life or your community who could benefit from your time, your encouragement, or your example? Sometimes showing up doesn’t require grand gestures. It can be as simple as offering guidance, listening without judgment, or modeling what respect and integrity look like in everyday moments.

As we celebrate the gentlemen featured in this issue, I encourage each of us to reflect on the role we play in shaping the next generation. Because the impact of a good man, of a present, intentional, and values-driven man, ripples far beyond what we can see.

June 2026

PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Britt Barber | britt.barber@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ashton Burns | ashton.burns@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Jennifer Dartez | jennifer.dartez@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Deborah Dove

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Joseph Rivers: Jay Sonata Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kim Hill, Eve Bushman, Mel Boban, Gary Burns

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Brittney Dawn Short

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

AWAKEN YOUR INNER

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

Seeing is Believing

Nestled along the shores of Lake Grapevine, Lakeside Village blends nature, dining, shopping, and living into one vibrant destination. Stroll the trails and take in the waterfront views, discover a mix of boutique shops and local favorites, gather with friends at restaurants that turn meals into memories, or make your home here at one of our thoughtfully designed residences. everything awaits at our water’s edge

scene

business monthly

Where Everyone and Every Thing has a Story

Storied Provisions celebrated its grand opening in Flower Mound with a ribbon cutting, introducing the community to a thoughtfully curated mercantile and café designed as a true love letter to Flower Mound and Highland Village. Offering specialty coffee, freshly baked pastries, books, textiles, and uniquely sourced wares, this inviting new space brings a warm, elevated shopping and gathering experience to the area. 2021 Justin Road, Suite 184, Flower Mound, TX 75028

Congratulations to Sam Pack Ford!

Five Star Ford Lewisville celebrated earning the prestigious President’s Award alongside Mr. Sam Pack, Mr. Tony Pack, Ms. Carley Pack, the Sam Pack Auto Group, and Ford Motor Company executives. This achievement reflects the team’s commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience and the dedication behind every interaction. The celebration recognized the hard work, camaraderie, and service that make Five Star Ford Lewisville a standout in the community.

A New Home for the Boys & Girls Club

A major step forward for local youth took place as officials broke ground on the new Boys & Girls Club of Greater Tarrant County facility in nearby Lewisville. Located at 195 W. Corporate Drive, the 8,000-square-foot space will feature 25-foot ceilings for a full gym, along with a dedicated playground, all designed to serve more than 6,000 youth across Denton County, including those in the Flower Mound area.

Photography by Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce

Photography by Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce

Happy Birthday, MCL!

Medical City Lewisville celebrated a major milestone with its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of dedicated service to the community. Recognized for its commitment to exceptional healthcare and patient-centered care, the hospital has grown alongside the region, continually advancing its services and impact. This golden anniversary honors a legacy of healing, innovation, and trusted care for generations of families.

Now Open in Lewisville!

NICHÉ Skin Studio Ink celebrated its grand opening in Lewisville, introducing a luxury beauty experience to the community. Located at 2681 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 305, the studio specializes in advanced beauty treatments and permanent makeup artistry, offering services such as brows, lip blush, facials, microneedling, and more. Focused on enhancing natural beauty through precision and personalized care, NICHÉ brings a fresh, elevated approach to self-care in the area.

Brewing Up Something New

The Human Bean celebrated its 5 year ribbon cutting. Known for its high-quality coffee, friendly service, and convenient drive-thru model, The Human Bean offers a wide variety of handcrafted beverages to keep customers energized throughout the day. This drive-thru spot is great for coffee lovers and busy locals alike. 1001 W Round Grove Rd, Lewisville, TX 75067

Photography by Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce

Photography by Lewisville Chamber of Commerce

Pitmaster Picks

A Curated Roundup of Four Local Spots Bringing Serious Smoke and Standout Flavor

In Texas, barbecue isn’t just food. It’s a well-honed craft shaped by time, fire, and the state’s cattle ranching history. And enjoying barbecue isn’t just a meal. It’s a community gathering, a tradition of sharing food around a smoker, the kitchen table, or at a local barbecue joint. It’s a process that can’t be rushed and a culture that rewards patience, precision, and respect for the meat.

What sets Texas barbecue apart is its simplicity, its focus on beef rather than pork, and a low and slow smoking technique that elevates simple ingredients into a complex and flavorful culinary experience. From barkcrusted brisket with a perfect smoke ring to tender ribs that pull clean from the bone, every detail reflects a commitment to doing things the right way—the Texas way.

But great barbecue isn’t confined to one legendary spot or a single style. It thrives in neighborhoods, at roadside joints, and in family-run smokehouses where recipes and techniques are passed down and refined over generations. Each pit tells its own story, shaped by local tastes and the personality of the pitmaster behind it.

In this roundup, we highlight four local barbecue joints carrying that tradition forward—serving up bold flavors, time-honored methods, and plates that capture the true spirit of Texas barbecue.

ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE

Sullivan Old Town BBQ

Great barbecue isn’t confined to one legendary spot or a single style. It thrives in neighborhoods, at roadside joints, and in familyrun smokehouses where recipes and techniques are passed down and refined over generations.

For more than 30 years, Terry Sullivan has been smoking meat the “old school way”—in pits—using only post-oak wood for clean smoke. From slow cooked brisket and pulled pork to turkey and sausage, you can count on meat that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

301 S Mill St, Lewisville

Marty B’s brings the spirit—and the barbecue—of the Texas Hill Country closer to home. With live music, a welcoming modern ranch atmosphere, delicious food, and community fire pits for s’mores and storytelling, it’s the perfect place to kick back, making lasting memories, and eat delicious food.

The focus at locally owned Harold Dean Smokehouse is on authentic Texas-style barbecue. Meats are smoked over native pecan wood at a precise 210 degrees to create a slightly sweet, smoky flavor that’s evident in every dish—from brisket, pulled pork, and beef ribs to their black pepper sausage, turkey, and chicken.

This family-owned and family-run restaurant is built on more than 25 years of experience in the BBQ industry. Meats are smoked low and slow each morning, using time-tested rubs, fresh cuts, and authentic Texas techniques. Known for their ribs and brisket, Big Jack’s delivers true Texas barbecue made with care, consistency, and tradition.

Marty B’s

Harold Dean Smokehouse Big Jack’s BBQ

AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short

Creative Director: Jen Birn

Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill

Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX

MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.

After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.

Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”

THE QUIET STANDARD:

MIKE JOHNSON

“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”

— Mike Johnson

Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?

A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”

Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?

A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”

This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

MIKE JOHNSON

Nonprofit of the Month

CASA of Denton County Provides Advocacy, Stability, and Hope, Ensuring Every Child Has a Chance

The impact of CASA of Denton County is both profound and far-reaching, touching the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in the community while strengthening the broader child welfare system. As a volunteer-driven nonprofit, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) plays a critical role in advocating for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring their voices are heard in complex legal and social systems.

At its core, CASA of Denton County exists to serve children who have been removed from their homes by Child Protective Services or children that are still in their home, but whose families are participating in court mandated services. These children often face uncertainty, instability, and trauma. CASA volunteers step into this gap as consistent, trained advocates who focus solely on the child’s best interests. Unlike other professionals who may rotate through their case, a CASA volunteer provide continuity—building a lasting relationship with the child and offering stability during a highly disruptive time.

The measurable impact of CASA of Denton County’s work is striking. In 2025 alone, the organization served 642 children in Denton County, each paired with a dedicated advocate, ensuring that each child’s case received careful attention and informed recommendations. Perhaps most notably, 99% of CASA volunteer recommendations were accepted by judges or juries, underscoring the credibility and influence of their work in the courtroom.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

Beyond courtroom outcomes, CASA’s influence extends into longterm child well-being. Research and program data show that children with a CASA advocate are less likely to re-enter the foster care system after their cases close. They are also more likely to receive critical services, such as educational support, counseling, and healthcare. This holistic advocacy ensures that children are not only placed in safe environments but are also given the tools they need to thrive.

The organization’s impact is amplified by its strong volunteer base. Each year, more than 200 community members step forward to serve as CASA advocates, demonstrating a powerful model of civic engagement. These volunteers undergo extensive training and are supported throughout their service, enabling them to navigate complex family dynamics, legal proceedings, and social services systems effectively. This community-driven approach not only benefits the children served but also fosters a culture of empathy and responsibility within Denton County.

Financially, CASA represents a high-impact investment in the community. The cost to provide advocacy for one child for a year is approximately $2,500—a relatively modest amount considering the longterm societal benefits of improved child outcomes. By helping children achieve stable, permanent homes, CASA reduces the likelihood of future involvement in the justice system, homelessness, or chronic dependency on social services.

The ripple-effects of CASA of Denton County’s work extend beyond individual children. By supporting families, providing informed court decisions, and collaborating with community partners, CASA contributes to a more effective and compassionate child welfare system. Its partnerships with organizations like the United Way of Denton County and the statewide and national CASA networks further enhance its reach and sustainability.

Ultimately, the impact of CASA of Denton County can be measured not by statistics but in transformed lives. Each child served represents a story of resilience supported by advocacy, stability, and care. Through its dedicated volunteers and evidence-based approach, CASA continues to ensure that children who have experienced abuse or neglect are not forgotten, but instead are given a voice, a champion, and a path toward a brighter future.

Every child has a chance. It’s you! If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CASA, visit casadenton.org or email Bethany Hartung at bhartung@casadenton.org.

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Moore

Stephanie Moore CEO

Is Whiskey On Ice

Nice?

BY EVE BUSHMAN

In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.

A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.

THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER

HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:

Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.

On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.

Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.

Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.

Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”

Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.

Bros Who Brunch

A DELICIOUS TWIST ON TRADITIONAL BRUNCH

The word “brunch” was first used in the publication Hunter's Weekly by Guy Beringer in 1895. Beringer felt tired after long, large, traditional post-church meals and suggested possibly something lighter. He wrote the article “Brunch: A Plea” in which he argued for a meal between the regular times of breakfast and lunch on Sundays that would connect people to each other.

Wherever the initial spark of genius came from, the tradition caught on in the United States in the 1930s, supposedly because Hollywood stars making transcontinental train trips frequently stopped off in Chicago to enjoy a late morning meal. According to Grubhub.com's article "The History of Brunch," the biggest push came during a massive moment of progress for women in America. When women entered the workforce, they needed a break from cooking and pushed the family to start going out for a meal on the day they would generally sit around the table as a family–Sunday.

The year's biggest brunch holiday is Mother's Day. The National Restaurant Association reported that 92 million Americans dined out last Mother's Day: one-quarter of them went to brunch.

But it's not just a meal, it's kind of a feeling. Weekend mornings can be a special time to relax, see friends, and catch up on the events of the week. Brunch is the perfect time to get a crew together and enjoy a meal and some great conversation. It's generally eaten mid- or late morning, so it can't be done on a normal working day. One must be taking time off from one's usual schedule in order to eat brunch.

So why do men typically not share the same admiration for the weekly tradition? Well, some do!

Sunday Funday has become a weekly practice for my husband and his buddies. Each Sunday they gather at one of their homes mid-morning to kickstart the week ahead. It is a chance to unwind and forget about the stress of the everyday grind. The group may play a hand of poker, take a dip in the pool, or even partake in a round of golf, then they share a few laughs in the kitchen or around the grill while swapping their favorite recipes. The sun is shining, the smoker is lit, and the fellas have gathered to talk shop and chow down.

A January 2023 blog on Opt Health dove deeper into the benefits of men spending quality time with their counterparts and the role male support networks play in men's mental health. They discovered that male friendships are an essential but often overlooked aspect of their mental health. Research has shown that having close friendships with other men can provide a sense of belonging, support, and purpose, which can help men to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression.

Brunch has historically been aligned with high society, big hats, and breakfast entrees. However, these societal norms are growing stale, and a new wave of brunch goers and doers is on the rise. The best part is that there are no set rules! Whether you gather the family and visit a local hot spot or create your own brunch tradition with your besties, brunch is best served with a side of fun.

I want to say a special thank you to my husband and his brunch buddies for allowing us a glimpse into their coveted "Bro Time." The food is always delicious and the company can't be beat. I hope you enjoy some of their favorite menu items next time you decide to have a Sunday Funday of your own.

WATERMELON MINT AND FETA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• 5 cups cubed watermelon

• ¼ cup red onion

• 1 cup diced cucumbers

• 1 large avocado, cubed

• ½ cup feta to toss, ½ cup to top

• 3 – 4 mint clusters cut chiffonade (reserve some to top)

• 1 Serrano or Fresno pepper, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• sea salt to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine in large bowl and gently toss.

2. Top with mint and feta to garnish. Serves 4-6.

CANON CRACKER SHRIMP

INGREDIENTS

• 1 – ½ lb (16-20) rock shrimp

• 1 stick unsalted butter

• 1 cup buffalo hot sauce

• 1 tablespoon of blackened or Cajun seasoning

INSTRUCTIONS

Melt butter over medium high till slightly bubbly, add shrimp, sauce and seasoning, and cook over medium till shrimp are just cooked through. Do not over cook.

Watermelon Mint and Feta Salad

Cannon Cracker Shrimp

PULLED PORK SLIDERS

INGREDIENTS

• 8 - 10 lbs pork butt

• 5 tablespoons of canola oil or yellow mustard

• Kosher salt, cracked black pepper and favorite dry rub. This version used carnitas, Ragin Cajun and Angelo’s pork seasoning equally. John Henry’s, Salt Lick, and especially Grub Rub are also great pork rubs. Make your own with 2 tablespoons each of sugar, dark brown sugar, paprika, coarse salt, cracked black pepper and garlic powder, 1 tablespoon each of onion powder, ground chipotle chili, adobo or cayenne powder and guajillo chile, and 1 ½ tsp each of ground cumin and dry mustard. Experiment and sub ingredients and portions for preference.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Set up your smoker for temperature of 225 - 250°. Use chunks of pecan or apple, hickory and mesquite are too harsh for long pork smoking.

2. Prep your pork butt using oil or mustard as a binder and liberally coat with dry rub.

3. Place your pork on the smoker, spritzing every hour with apple cider vinegar and/or apple juice. Apply more dry rub once more halfway through until you wrap it. About 4 hours total initial smoke.

4. Once you hit the stall and you like the bark, wrap it in butcher paper or tin foil with an additional ½ cup apple juice.

5. Continue smoking until you get to an internal temp of 205°.

6. Remove and let rest for 30 minutes.

7. Shred and serve while hot.

8. Serve with warm slider buns of choice, pickles, sliced onion, pickled Fresno or jalapeño peppers and Carolina BBQ sauce.

RYE NOT

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ½ oz Still Austin Rye

• ½ oz Paula’s Orange Liquor

• ½ oz Aperol

• ½ Amaro Nonino

• ¼ oz simple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine over ice in cocktail carafe and stir.

2. Strain into rocks or double old fashioned glass over a large ice cube and garnish with dehydrated lime.

3. Dehydrated lime: slice a fresh lime in 1/8 inch rounds and place on a heavy cookie sheet (rack lined optional) heat at 225° until desired color is achieved, which may take a couple of hours. This may also be done in a dehydrator, sourced online or store bought.

Recipes by Ron Taylor Certified Sommelier, CMS

Rye Not

Pulled Pork Sliders

Men of Influence

FIVE LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS TALK ABOUT LEADERSHIP, SUCCESS, AND LEGACY

ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE

Jeff Ditta

Owner, JAMA Custom Outdoor Living LLC

WHAT DOES BEING A MAN OF INFLUENCE MEAN TO YOU?

Being a man of influence in business and the community isn’t really about status or visibility—it’s about impact and consistency. At its core, being a man of influence means people trust your word, respect your example, and are better off because you were involved.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP?

Leadership is about being part of the team, setting the vision, helping others succeed, and making sure the business stays strong and profitable.

WHAT PRINCIPLES HAVE BEEN KEY TO EARNING TRUST AND RESPECT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Standing behind your word, honoring your commitments, and ensuring the client is not just satisfied but truly impressed at the completion of a project.

WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

We hope to leave a legacy of quality work, integrity and relationships that last long after each project is completed.

David Faught

Owner, Storm ROOF and AUTO Hail Repair

HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP?

Leading from the front and showing rather than telling is the only way I’ve ever known how to do it. I’m out in the field with my sales team every day, learning, growing, and going through it alongside them. And honestly, that’s what’s made it so rewarding, so FUN, building something together and growing as a team, not from the sidelines.

WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

The legacy I want to leave is one that breaks the scarcity mindset. I want my family, and everyone I’ve impacted through business, to understand that we weren’t designed to think small or live paycheck to paycheck. We’re capable of far more than that. If anything sticks after I’m gone, I want it to be the belief that there’s abundance in opportunity, in growth, and in what you can build if you’re willing to work for it.

Gene Freeman

Co-Owner, Complete Landsculpture

WHAT DOES BEING A “MAN OF INFLUENCE” MEAN TO YOU—IN BUSINESS AND IN YOUR COMMUNITY?

It means having a responsibility to lead with integrity and generosity, while giving time and opportunities to others through training and shared experience.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE LEADERSHIP, AND HOW HAS YOUR DEFINITION EVOLVED OVER TIME?

Leadership is about setting the tone and living by the same principles you expect from others. Over time, I have learned that being open to collaboration and innovation is key to continued growth and staying at the forefront of the industry.

WHAT HABITS OR PRINCIPLES HAVE BEEN KEY TO EARNING TRUST AND RESPECT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Proactive and honest communication has been critical to our success. It is something often missing in the service industry. We also focus on continuously raising the standard of what it means to be a true landscape professional.

Tim House

Owner, The Bartonville Store

WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE?

My dad always embodied the traits most important to me: honesty, humility and kindness.

WHAT DOES BEING A MAN OF INFLUENCE MEAN TO YOU?

I've never really thought of myself as a "leader," but I appreciate the thought that I sometimes influence others. This is most recently due to my efforts to save The Bartonville Store and create a unique social environment that gives people a chance to smile—smiling with friends they meet there, or sometimes just smiling out of enjoyment for the music playing. I sometimes tell my customers that I measure the success of the business not by the dollars, but by the smiles.

WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?

I hope to be remembered as the guy who fought to save The Bartonville Store and its over 144 years of history rather than watch it be demolished and turned into a Dollar Store or drive-thru. I am proud to have saved this history and created a unique small town scene for people who come to "The Store" from near and far to enjoy.

Federico “Fred” Quezada

Founder/Master Auto Glass Technician, Platinum Auto Glass

WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE?

The most influential person in my life has been my mom. She raised our family of 11 on her own, carrying both the role of mother and father with strength, faith, and unconditional love. Watching her navigate challenges without ever giving up showed me what true strength looks like.

She taught me that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about consistency, character, and how you show up for others, especially when no one is watching.

WHAT PRINCIPLES HAVE BEEN KEY TO EARNING TRUST AND RESPECT IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Consistency, honesty, and attention to detail have been everything. I believe in doing the job right the first time, especially when working on classic and vintage vehicles, where there’s no room for shortcuts. When people see that you take pride in your craft and stand behind your work, trust and respect naturally follow.

ARTICLE BY KIM HILL

GUYS’ GUYS’

Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts. Scottsdale/Phoenix

There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the BarrettJackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one’s only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix

is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

New Orleans

It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can’t be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.

Austin

Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.

GETAWAYS

FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS

realty report

This data is a sampling of sold properties from April 2026. Source: IRES MLS system.

Priceless Memories

Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads

ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN

Learn Together

Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.

Retro Movie Night

Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.

Chef’s Kiss

Take the food pressure off Dad and invite local culinary experts to prepare a meal. A fun theme, based around his favorite vacation, such as Hawaiian food, will make the evening memorable. Alternatively, try a local cooking class together based on his favorite cuisine.

Blast From The Past

Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Plug In, Play On, Belong Here

The Bartonville Store: 96 McMakin Rd., Bartonville, TX 76226 | 7:00 PM

This community Open Mic Night is a weekly, intimate evening built for music lovers of every skill level. Hosted by Justin Collins, the night welcomes original songs, familiar melodies, and the kind of genuine connection that only live music can create. Reservations recommended. Visit www.thebartonvillestore.com to secure a spot.

SUNDAYS

Fresh Goods and Friendly Faces

The Bartonville Store: 96 McMakin Rd., Bartonville, TX 76226

The Bartonville Farmers Market is continues this summer and is better than ever, welcoming returning favorites and exciting new vendors to the lineup. Fresh made goods, handmade items, live music, and brunch at The Bartonville Store make this the Sunday morning ritual worth showing up for. Visit www.thebartonvillestore.com for vendor details.

JUNE 9TH

Get On Your Feet for Gloria

Wayne Ferguson Plaza: 150 W Church St., Lewisville, TX 75057

Sounds of Lewisville brings two exciting debuts with El Chanclazo Duo opening and Rhythm and Sound Machine delivering a high-energy tribute to the legendary Gloria Estefan. Free admission, food vendors, a bar, and a lawn full of enthusiastic fans make this a Tuesday night well spent. Visit SoundsofLewisville.com for details.

JUNE 15TH

People Helping People Golf Tournament

Denton Country Club: 1213 Country Club Rd., Argyle, TX 76226 | 9:00 AM

Denton County's longest-running charity golf tournament returns for its 36th year. This beloved annual tradition brings the community together for a full day of competitive play culminating in a 19th Hole Celebration. Spots fill fast every year, and for good reason! The fun and festivities are waiting for you. Register your team at www.unitedwaydenton.org/golf.

JUNE 18TH

Freedom, Culture, and Community

Lewisville Grand Theater: 100 N Charles St., Lewisville, TX 75057 | 7:30 PM

Lewisville's Poet Laureate James Mardis hosts an electrifying Juneteenth poetry slam celebrating freedom, resilience, and community through bold original work. Part of the city's multiday Juneteenth: The Cookout celebration, the evening includes open mic opportunities for additional voices to take the stage. Part of a powerful multiday celebration. Visit www.lewisvillegrand.com for details and to sign up.

JUNE 18TH

Stuffies Check In, Adventures Begin

Flower Mound Public Library: 3030 Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound, TX 75022 | 6:30 PM

Pajama Storytime at the library is just the beginning. Children drop off their favorite stuffed animals for a toys-only overnight camp complete with after-hours adventures, while little ones enjoy stories, music, rhymes, and crafts in their coziest pajamas. Pick up your stuffie the next day with a special keepsake in hand. Visit www.flowermound.gov/135/Library for details.

JUNE 27TH

Hawks, Owls, and Falcons Up Close

Flower Mound Public Library: 3030

Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound, TX 75022 | 2:00 PM

The Blackland Prairie Raptor Center brings live birds of prey to this captivating family program, introducing children and adults to remarkable raptors in an up-close and unforgettable educational experience. Free tickets require a library card and go quickly, so planning ahead is strongly encouraged. Visit www.flowermound.gov/135/ Library to learn more and reserve yours.

JUNE 27TH

Paint a Neon Desert

Lewisville Public Library: 1197 W Main St., Lewisville, TX 75067 | 1:30 PM

Steven Rodriguez guides participants through a vibrant acrylic painting workshop inspired by the dramatic landscapes and bold palettes of the American Southwest. Every attendee walks away with a completed 11x14 original painting, regardless of skill level. Open to ages 14 and up. Visit www. library.cityoflewisville.com/home registration details and availability.

JUNE 30TH

The Road to Independence

Flower Mound Public Library: 3030

Broadmoor Ln., Flower Mound, TX 75022 | 7:00 PM

The Denton County chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution invites the community to explore the pivotal events, remarkable people, and enduring ideals that gave birth to the United States. This special presentation is a timely and compelling tribute to America's 250th anniversary. Visit www.flowermound.gov/135/Library to learn more about this event.

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Pit Boss Perfection

MASTERING THE ART OF SMOKED MEATS

ARTICLE BY GARY BURNS

WOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS

Light Meat (Pork and Chicken) pairs with Fruit Woods: Cherry Wood, Apple Wood, Pecan Wood Fruit Woods are used because they are less harsh on the lighter meats. Lighter meats cook faster and absorb more smoke. With mesquite, oak, or hickory woods, it can easily make the lighter meats taste bitter or sour.

Dark Meat (Beef) pairs with heavier wood: Mesquite, Oak, Hickory Wood Mesquite, oak, and hickory are best used on beef. Beef is denser and will not absorb as much smoke, so harsher woods will work without leaving the meat bitter or sour. These meats tend to have a savory flavor.

Ingredients

• 3–5-pound Beef Tri-Tip

• Black Pepper

• Kosher Salt

• Garlic Salt

• Onion Powder

• Olive Oil

• Worcestershire Sauce

• Foil or Butcher Paper

Suggested smoking method

Lump Charcoal, Mesquite, or Hickory Wood

Directions

Step 1.

• Trim tri-tip.

• Preheat smoker to a 250–300-degree range with lump charcoal.

• Once at a steady temperature, add 8 small chunks of hickory or mesquite.

• Prepare tri-tip in the following order: Spread olive oil on all sides of the tri-tip. Lightly sprinkle onion powder and garlic salt. Heavily season with a 50/50 mix of black pepper and kosher salt.

Step 2.

• Place tri-tip fat side up.

• After 1 hour, mix 50/50 water and Worcestershire sauce.

• Lightly spritz water/Worcestershire sauce on tri-tip to keep it moist.

• Repeat step 3 exactly 1 hour later.

Final Step.

• 1 hour after the last spritz, take tri-tip off the smoker and place it in foil or butcher paper with more water and Worcestershire sauce. Use a slightly heavier amount this time so it puddles under the tri-tip. Wrap tightly and place back on the smoker for 2-3 hours.

• Once 2-3 hours have passed, place the wrapped tri-tip on a platter, wrap it, and let it rest for 20 minutes.

CONTINUED >