Explore time with family and friends to enjoy summer 2024!
Happy July!
It's a time for fun in the sun, swimming with friends and family, boating, golfing, hosting barbecues, and enjoying the great outdoors. It promises to be a hot summer, but keeping cool while you enjoy all that July has to offer is the key.
In this issue, we share a number of different ways to stay cool, from this month's article on Claffey Pools, to great getaway adventures at Oklahoma's Broken Branch resort and luxury cabins ... to tips on keeping your pets happy, cool, well hydrated and part of the family fun this summer.
A lot has been happening locally, as you'll see in our expanded City Scene section. From parties, fundraisers, business and city/chamber activities, it's been a busy month!
You'll also want to check out our feature on well-known interior designer Donna Moss, Blow Your Mind Design studio and boutique that she co-owns with her daughter Tiffany, The Artist Salon (Southlake's largest fine art gallery), and the event that Blow Your Mind Design recently hosted with the builders of a new dream home neighborhood in Southlake's exclusive Carillon Park development, to raise funds benefitting the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®.
This month, we also share stories about Dr. Alexis Gordon and Southlake’s Renew MD Facial Aesthetics, as well as 6 Stones, the local nonprofit organization that serves families and individuals in need in a variety of ways. A number of Southlake groups support the good work of 6 Stones, like the Southlake Young Men's Service League, Southlake Carroll Dragons, students from Dawson Middle School and others.
Do you have news to share for a future issue? We would love to hear from you! Just email your story ideas - we are always looking for news tips and great photos.
Here's wishing you and your family a fantastic and fun-filled July!
JON CALVIN, PUBLISHER
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Jon Calvin | jon.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Mandy Calvin | mandy.calvin@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sally Crocker | sally.crocker@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
St. Jude Dream Home Showplace at Carillon Development
John Webb Founder Heritage Custom Homes
Jon Atwood Atwood Custom Homes Founder
Travis Franks
Jody Alumbaugh Willow Tree Founders
Nick Smith Kensington Homes Founder
Paul Moss
Founder Kyle Moss Beckett Graham Luxury Homes
KeyCity Capital is a values-based, growth-oriented, financial services company built on principles of integrity, trust, and communication.
We connect our investors to private equity in real estate and alternative investments with the goal of generating risk-adjusted, long-term wealth.
STRATEGIC
Our assets are strategically selected by our experienced team to be in “opportunity hub” areas and are designed to create longterm value for our investors.
KNOWLEDGEABLE
Our knowledgeable in-house management and vertically integrated team provide added value to your investments.
DIVERSIFIED
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RELATIONSHIPS
Our team prides itself on building personal relationships with our investors that allow us to best meet their individual needs.
KeyCity at a Glance
4,000+ UNITS
$485M+ ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT 500+ ACCREDITED INVESTORS
*Single families are included as single investment by city or market
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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JULY
city scene
1: Ally’s Wish “Boots & Blessings 2024 Gala” was a huge success. 2: The invaluable contributions of the City Secretary’s Office were recognized during Professional Municipal Clerks Week. 3: Southlake Chamber awards Jaiden Mehta a 2024 Carroll ISD scholarship. Jaiden will attend Texas A&M. 4: Senior Activity Center members enjoying a trip to Ennis for the beautiful Texas bluebonnets. 5: During Fit City Challenge, Southlake’s Public Library team reminded everyone to fuel both bodies and brains. 6: Southlake’s best chefs were featured at Taste of Southlake, hosted by the Southlake Westin Hotel. 7: Allie’s Cake Balls offered a variety of delectable goodies at the Taste of Southlake.
ALLY’S WISH
CITY OF SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS
MANDY CALVIN
EXPERIENCE SOUTHLAKE
MANDY CALVIN
city scene
1: APN private dinner at Calabrese. For information on APN, contact Tina Marie Molinar at 708-336-1184. 2: Global Ambassador Marcus II with APN (All Points North) spreading mental health awareness to the Southlake community and abroad. 3: Park Place Dealerships volunteers joined Coppell’s The Vitamin Bridge in delivering prenatal vitamins for moms-to-be with limited access to resources. 4: Colleyville Woman’s Club May luncheon, a highlight of the year. 5: Colleyville Woman’s Club provided grants to 19 charities and scholarships to 11 graduating high school seniors. 6: Colleyville Woman’s Club 2024-25 officers. 7: Precision Orthopedics and Sports Medicine’s Southlake grand opening. Get your joints ready to hit the road this summer!
CITY SCENE
MANDY CALVIN
MANDY CALVIN
CAROL WOLLIN
PABLO REYES-LARA
BECKY ALEXANDER
MANDY CALVIN
PARK PLACE DEALERSHIPS
city scene CONTINUED
1: Southlake City Lifestyle’s Partners Networking event catered by Personalized Grazing at Roots and Water Wine Club. 2: Southlake favorite 1956 Pizza headed to Highland Village for Heritage elementary school’s annual fundraiser, Hawkfest. 3: Creekside 24/7 Pet Care Center and Josie Elder introduce the newest members of Creekside, 10 little Bassett puppies!!
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APN IS CHANGING THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS LANDSCAPE
in DALLAS-FORT WORTH
Home to several Fortune 500 companies, The DallasFort Worth metroplex is no stranger to cutting-edge innovation. Now, Colorado-based brand All Points North is bringing something new to DFW to help locals find total, sustainable health in mind and body.
With core behavioral health services from All Points North, neurotechnology and integrative psychiatry from Plus by APN, and mind-body group classes and personal training from 9x Fitness, All Points North (APN) Dallas-Fort Worth is a sanctuary of healing and recovery, dedicated to transforming the lives of those battling addiction, trauma, and mental health issues. This stateof-the-art facility combines luxurious accommodations with cutting-edge treatment modalities, making it a premier destination for comprehensive care.
Each APN Dallas-Fort Worth client receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs. The facility offers a range of services, including medically supervised detox, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, and innovative therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), stellate ganglion blocks, and ketamine-assisted therapy.
APN’s multifaceted approach addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of addiction and mental health disorders, paving the way for longterm healing.
The dedicated care team at APN Dallas-Fort Worth understands that achieving optimal health requires a comprehensive approach. There’s no silver bullet, and there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. Total health requires a custom approach for the mind and the body. By offering so many mental health services under one roof, APN Dallas-Fort Worth makes it easy for the local community to prioritize health and well-being.
Schedule a free consultation at apn.com/southlake
business monthly
St. Jude Dream Homes development at Southlake's Carillon Parc
A tour of the cabinet manufacturers for The Carillon Parc Development builders who are raising funds to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to more than 80% since it opened in 1962.
Angels' Attic Upscale Retail honors volunteers at circus picnic
Angels' Attic recently honored its volunteers at a circus picnic at White's Chapel Methodist Church. The event included ringmasters, clowns, knife throwers and tattooed ladies, all celebrating the organization's success. Angels' Attic has given over $2,600,000 to those in need and thanks all the generous donors and loyal shoppers for their support. Visit the store at 1250 William D Tate Ave, Ste. 350, in Grapevine, or visit the website for more information: angelsatticresale.com
Southlake City Lifestyle editor wins two international blog writing awards
Hermes Creative Awards, an international awards competition for creative professionals involved in the concept, writing and design of traditional and emerging media, has announced that Sally Crocker, Southlake City Lifestyle editor, has won both a Platinum and a Gold award for her blog writing on behalf of Tarrant Regional Water District. More than 6,500 entries from throughout the U.S., Canada and two dozen other countries were part of this year's Hermes Creative Awards competition.
Photography: Nick Smith, Kensington Custom Homes
Photography: Sally Crocker
Photography: Angels' Attic Upscale Retail
C A L A B R E S E
BOOK OUR PATIO
Searching for the ideal patio spot this summer? Look no further! Our patio offers a semi-private, fully enclosed, and climate-controlled environment, perfect for any occasion. Reserve your spot today by scanning the QR code or visiting our website to fill out a booking form.
Renew MD Facial Aesthetics
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RENEW MD
FACIAL AESTHETICS
Dr. Alexis Gordon had been a successful urology surgeon for more than 18 years when she decided to change her life. She had always had a passion for dermatology and aesthetics, and embarked on a new adventure to help patients look and feel renewed. She trained with renowned cosmetic surgery doctors while researching the latest techniques and brought her vision to life when the doors of Southlake’s Renew MD Facial Aesthetics opened in 2018.
Some of the credit for Dr. Gordon’s exciting new change likely goes to Sonic Drive-In, because that’s where
RENEWING PATIENTS’ CONFIDENCE TO HELP THEM FEEL AS VIBRANT AS THEY ARE
Dr. Alexis Gordon.
“OUR MED SPA STRIVES TO BUILD MEANINGFUL, LASTING CONNECTIONS WITH OUR PATIENTS. WE HELP THEM FEEL THEIR BEST AND SLOW DOWN THE SIGNS OF AGING.”
– DR. ALEXIS GORDON
the doctor spent a lot of time formulating her business plan. In between dropping her children off at school and picking them up, she would pull into a Sonic parking space for breakfast or lunch to read and work on starting her new business.
Since she opened Renew MD Facial Aesthetics, Dr. Gordon and her team have moved to larger space three times. The office is now located in the heart of Southlake near Tom Thumb and Bicentennial Park, and the team has grown to eight staff members, including a dual-board-certified, award-winning nurse practitioner, two medical aestheticians and an award-winning in-house makeup artist, using Jane Iredale products, who is available for special event makeup appointments.
Renew MD Facial Aesthetics has won numerous awards, and Dr. Gordon has been named as one of America’s Most Honored Doctors by The American Registry every year since 2020. This award recognizes the many positive reviews and accolades Dr. Gordon has received. She sees patients from across the DFW metroplex and Texas, as well as from out of state. The customer service experience sets the practice apart, as well as the safety aspect and quality of treatments.
Renew MD provides minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures for anti-aging, skin conditions, skin health and prevention for all skin types and tones, for both women and men. The practice offers regenerative aesthetics, chemical peels, injectables, cheek and lip augmentation, dermaplaning, body contouring, fillers, laser skin resurfacing, LED light therapy, microneedling, hair restoration, laser hair removal, facials and hydrafacials, acne treatment without medication, and more.
“Our motivation is to help people feel more confident with who they are and to help them love the skin they’re in,” Dr. Gordon says. “Relationships and trust are important, and we consider all our patients to be both friends and family.”
Dr. Alexis Gordon.
The Renew MD Facial Aesthetics team.
DISTRE ED
Founder and CEO, Ann Hambly, spent years of her career developing and leading some of the largest servicing shops known today. With this knowledge and experience, we provide inside access to real deal terms being approved by lenders and CMBS servicers. We work on all property types nationwide with any amount of debt, and with all lenders and servicers (bank or CMBS). We are here to become a part of the team and provide you with real solutions to the most complex commercial real estate issues.
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLAFFEY POOLS
Claffey Pools Explore your ‘Why’ with
Explore the endless opportunities to create, transform or enhance your backyard space – from a small update to a beautiful new design by Claffey Pools.
FAMILY TIME, ENTERTAINING, BUILDING MEMORIES
When it comes to creating, remodeling or maintaining your outdoor space, explore the options with Claffey Pools.
Serving North Texas for nearly four decades, the Claffey Pools team is known for the finest in design and pool building, incredible remodels that transform old to new, unparalleled service, and weekly maintenance that protects your fabulous outdoor investment.
What’s your why?
When considering a new pool, or remodeling your existing pool, ask yourself questions like these:
• Why do you want a pool, what is most important to you and your family, and how will you use your pool? Some of the reasons you might consider could be for family recreation, aesthetic value, entertainment, exercise, relaxation, or the opportunity to create your own personal staycation.
• If remodeling, what updates would make? Are you interested in a complete facelift, changes to your tile and coping and updating to trendier materials, or creating a totally new environment with added water features, spas, firepits, arbors and shade structures? The options are limitless. If you’re unhappy with your existing pool, you can always remove it, create a new canvas and start over.
When considering different options for your pool, remember that Claffey can add features like these:
Custom slides, in-pool basketball, in-pool volleyball, jump platforms, water features, tanning ledges for in-pool loungers, outdoor living spaces, swim-up bars, custom built-in BBQs, firepits and fireplaces.
An entertaining paradise.
So many exciting options for your pool.
Claffey Design Center courtyard: your one stop shop for some of the most inspiring pool designs around.
A gorgeous backyard assortment of activities.
Plenty of room for relaxation and fun.
A great space for enjoying time together.
Pools can be a work of art that captures beauty right in your backyard or a place for play, fun and total relaxation—they’re an extension of your lifestyle and what makes you happy.
What’s exceptional about Claffey Pools?
Claffey Pools builds lifestyles. As the leading local pool builder officed in Southlake, Claffey has designed, built and installed over 11,000 pools for customers seeking everything from unique and modern to classic or traditional. Your home is your private oasis, and your backyard is the extraordinary outdoor retreat that brings it all together.
Among Claffey’s many 5-star reviews, customer Lisa B. noted, “After getting five estimates from our local pool builders, we decided to go with Claffey and we are so pleased with the experience! They really work with you from the design phase all the way through the finish to ensure that you’re completely satisfied. Our designer took everything into account to tie the pool in with our backyard. Once they started construction, Jeremiah, our project manager, made sure we were updated on each step and who would be out at the house doing what. Any questions we had he quickly found the answer to. Everyone who worked on the pool was professional. The quality of work was exceptional! After the pool was built, Justin helped us with the final touches - he too was always available to help with questions and would always come over to check out any concern we had. We love our new pool and spa!”
And away we go!!
Options for all to find a place to relax and enjoy time together.
A little something to nibble on ...
Claffey is your complete partner
Building or remodeling a backyard pool is a significant lifetime investment. Protecting your investment with a team of industry-certified service and maintenance professionals assures that you’ve selected the right partner in Claffey Pools.
The family owned and operated Claffey Pools, with its new partners, takes great pride in checking every box and giving you peace of mind that your backyard dreams and ideas are in the right hands. Claffey is there for you at every step along the way, providing a complete solution to all your needs. Whether you’re building a pool for the first time or have been through the process many times before, the Claffey team can WOW you with creative designs. You can trust Claffey to build the best.
From creation to weekly cleaning and equipment servicing, all the way to renovation, Claffey takes care of you and your pool for a lifetime.
Remodel customer T.S. in Flower Mound offered high praise for Claffey’s remodeling service, saying, “Claffey remodeled our pool and backyard. We had our pool resurfaced with new equipment, electrical work, tile and coping, new decking and a stone bar with a waterfall put in. Everything was done right, and our finished backyard was beautiful! We were recommended by others to use Claffey, and now we highly recommend them to anyone who wants a dream backyard.”
Claffey is Texas’ industry leader
Claffey has been honored with Gold Awards of Excellence from the Southwest Pool & Spa Show and has been named as a Top 50 Builder by Pool and Spa News. Claffey has been named as a Certified Builder Professional by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and has won the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics. Claffey representatives serve on the board of directors for both the Texas Pool and Spa Coalition and the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance.
As dedicated Pool and Hot Tub Association members, Claffey Pools also supports the Step into Swim initiative, empowering the next generation with essential swimming skills and water safety practices. Claffey’s pride lies in actively contributing to this noble cause, ensuring a safer and more confident aquatic community for children.
Does Claffey do maintenance?
Absolutely! The “Claffey Clean” solution provides weekly cleaning and maintenance services throughout your pool's life cycle. Claffey’s Pool Maintenance Plan keeps your water chemistry on track and your pool sparkling clean year-round.
“Claffey's weekly pool service is wonderful! Sebastiano M. is the best! He's kind, meticulous, and really cares for the health of our pool! I highly recommend using Claffey Pools for your weekly pool service,” says satisfied customer Chris G.
Looking for a Southlake pool supply store?
Claffey Pools’ retail store, located in the heart of Southlake, has all the products you need to keep your pool fresh, well taken care
A little time for you.
When it comes to creating, remodeling or maintaining your outdoor space, explore the options with Claffey Pools.
of, and ready to enjoy. Based on Claffey’s decades of experience in maintaining pools, you can also gain some of the best advice and guidance in the business when you stop by.
Customer Myles W. relies on Claffey’s pool supply services, saying, “The retail outlet led by Mark Emory handles all of our ongoing retail needs. Mark's management style is reflected in a well-run ship that's like going home every visit. I have another retail outlet down the street as well as the big outlets nearby, but we choose to fill all our needs where the service is beyond comparison and they go the extra mile and so do we.”
Products can also be ordered online through the Claffey Pools website at: claffeypools.com/online-store.
See what it’s all about!
Visit the Claffey Pools Design Center at 1625 Brumlow in Southlake to meet the team and check out the top new trends in pool, spa and backyard oasis designs. Your fun family dream, party-on-the-patio hangout, or private outdoor sanctuary awaits.
Serving North Texas for nearly four decades, the Claffey Pools team is known for the finest in design and pooling building, incredible remodels that transform old to new, unparalleled service, and weekly maintenance that protects your fabulous outdoor investment.
Quality family time for all ages.
Fun and games galore!
A diving platform unlike any you have seen before.
6 Stones CARES
SOUTHLAKE GROUPS AND FAMILIES PUT IN THE GOOD WORK
SUPPORTING 6 STONES’ EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY 6 STONES
6Stones, a Catalyst of Hope, has served as a local rescue organization since 2009. The nonprofit serves Hurst-Euless-Bedford and Grapevine families and individuals in various ways, through a food pantry; by repairing homes and doing yardwork for those in need; providing school supplies and backpacks for children; and by providing Christmas gifts and a holiday meal for students at 21 different HEB ISD elementary schools each year.
6 Stones operates with a bare-bones staff, but thanks to more than 6,000 volunteers a year, the organization is able to provide invaluable support to so many.
The Southlake community is a big supporter of 6 Stones, with Southlake’s Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) chapter, the
Southlake Carroll Dragons and students from Dawson Middle School giving time and service to help. Last November, over 100 moms and their 9th -12th grade YMSL sons built 100 bicycles for the 6 Stones’ Night of Hope Christmas event.
“It’s amazing what we can do thanks to all these volunteers,” says Teresa Grady, 6 Stones chief operating officer.
While primary funding comes from grants, individuals, corporate and foundation sponsorships, 6 Stones also holds an annual fundraising luncheon. This year’s event, featuring former Chicago Bears linebacker Mike Singletary as guest speaker, was a huge success, exceeding its budgeted goal.
In addition to the rescue programs already in place, Teresa says, new programs are being added to help people move into recovery and self-sufficiency. Mentoring
through the 6 Stones Momentum program is available for those seeking employment or a better job, those who want to learn about budgeting and credit, and those in need of other tools for moving forward in their lives. Spanish-language cohorts are also being added.
6 Stones offers a soccer league for at-risk HEB junior high boys. Outcomes have shown an increase in school attendance, a decrease in discipline issues, and higher GPA scores among these young athletes who gain both motivation and connection through the program.
6 Stones moves to a new building this summer, thanks to a successful $7 million capital campaign. The new location will be on W. Euless Blvd., next to the JPS Health Network Medical Home NE Tarrant clinic. A grand opening is planned for September.
Opposite page, left: 6 Stones volunteers in action. | Top right: 6 Stones soccer league for at-risk HEB junior high boys.| Bottom right: There are many positives for the youngsters participating in 6 Stones’ soccer league. | This page, top left: Changing lives, one home at a time. | Top middle: Momentum mixer. | Top right: Momentum helps people move forward in their lives. | Bottom left: 6 Stones CPR, Community Powered Revitalization. | Bottom right: Assisting children and their families when they need it most.
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
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Prepare to be ‘Blown Away’
Southlake’s largest contemporary fine art gallery
Interior designer Donna Moss is well known in Southlake and is a major player in both the Dallas and national home design scene. She was one of 10 designers selected from around the country to be on the first season of HGTV’s Design Star reality competition series, and after that she hosted her own HGTV show called Donna Decorates Dallas for two years, along with her co-stars, daughters Tiffany Moss Jenkins and Ashley Moss. Her whole family works together in creating and selling extraordinary, multi-million-dollar homes that are true showplaces as well as gracious and comfortable living spaces for families seeking “that something extra.”
Donna’s husband Paul Moss and their son Kyle Moss own Beckett Graham Luxury Homes. Their daughter Ashley is a real estate agent/broker, and daughter Tiffany co-owns Blow Your Mind Design with Donna, a boutique and interior design studio inside Blown Away Salons at 2112 E. Hwy. 114, which is also owned by Paul and Donna and is located at the intersection of 114 and Kimball in Southlake.
Donna and Tiffany also own The Artist Salon, Southlake’s largest contemporary fine art gallery, located throughout the same building.
The Artist Salon is a collaboration with Dallas and Fort Worth artists and gallerists, and to keep it fresh, Donna brings in new galleries every year. This gives The Artist Salon a unique flavor and new perspective. This past year, Donna and Tiffany worked with artists Debra Ferrari and Deborah Hartigan, who brought in amazing artists and sculptures. In June a new artist, Christina Lynn of Lynn/Langley Studio, took over curating the gallery. Christina will not only be bringing in brilliant fine artists from around the nation, but will also introduce emerging talent for a wonderful blend of beauty and affordable luxury to the Southlake community.
The boutique features unique jewelry, fashion and gift ideas, as well as home décor and accessories. Donna previously operated a Colleyville boutique for about 10 years, and in her new location, she now holds events in conjunction with The Artist Salon.
“
“At
Beckett Graham Luxury Homes, our entire family works together to create fabulous homes with extraordinary interiors.”
– Donna Moss
This page, top left: St. Jude Builders’ Party hosted by Donna Moss at The Artist Salon. | Top right: Tiffany and Donna. | Middle, left: Kendra Wagner, Unique Loom Rugs, with Donna Moss. | Middle, right: Tiffany and Donna. | Bottom Left: Donna Moss and Tiffany Moss Jenkins, owners of “Blow Your Mind Design” Boutique & Interior Design Studio, inside their “Blown Away” Salon Suites in Southlake. | Bottom right: St. Jude Builders’ Party.
“The wide, maze-like gallery corridors in our building create a perfect backdrop for showcasing fine art and the works of emerging artists,” Donna says. “The building is 10,000 sq. ft., and art is everywhere.”
The salon suites feature different businesses like aestheticians, brow and lash specialists, massage therapists, hair stylists and more.
CELEBRATING THE NEW CARILLON PARC DREAM HOME DEVELOPMENT BENEFITING ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL®
Blow Your Mind Design recently hosted a party with the builders of a new dream home neighborhood in Southlake’s exclusive Carillon Parc development, to raise funds benefiting the lifesaving work of St. Jude in finding cures and saving children.
For the first time ever, five luxury home builders - Atwood Custom Homes, Beckett Graham Luxury Homes, Heritage Homes, Kensington Custom Homes and Willow Tree Custom Homes - are coming together to create five dream homes, showcased side-by-side in this fundraising effort.
With their trade partners, vendors, suppliers and other campaign sponsors, the builders have committed to collectively raise at least $1 million for the children of St. Jude, and they are raising additional funds through events and the support of vendors donating materials.
Having been in the interior design business for over 30 years, Donna has designed and produced
many show homes in Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami and Las Vegas. In one show home she produced, Donna recruited and coordinated 30 designers, either partnering as a team or individually decorating their own space to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
“I enjoy focusing on show homes, and it’s exciting to work on the St. Jude project,” Donna says. “It’s an incredible fundraising opportunity for the organization and represents the first time St. Jude has ever worked with five builders in one magnificent dream neighborhood.”
When completed, the public can tour these homes for several weeks prior to their sale. It’s expected that they will be ready to tour by spring 2025.
Donna and team are in talks to create a coffee table book for this project, with a percentage of the royalties going to St. Jude. The book will feature the dream home builders and designers, special features of their St. Jude houses, and other exquisite, custom homes they have created.
Each builder has selected a color theme for their home associated with a child from St. Jude (the Beckett Graham color is purple), and Unique Loom rug company is donating color-coordinated rugs for each home. Donna is also working with Haerfest Coffee company, to blend a special flavored coffee representing each builder’s color, that will be served during the home tours. Many others – like furniture, lighting, appliance companies and more – are also graciously participating in this project to help raise funds and awareness.
EXPLORE BROKEN BRANCH
Find peace, tranquility and good times at Oklahoma’s scenic getaway
ARTICLE BY SALLY CROCKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROKEN BRANCH PROPERTIES
Southlake residents Betsy and Brad Branch were looking for a convenient family getaway to spend time enjoying nature in luxurious accommodations when they found the scenic area of Broken Bow, in southeast Oklahoma, near Beavers Bend State Park and the shores of Broken Bow Lake.
They discovered this getaway during the pandemic, when people were looking for safe vacation spots away from large crowds where families could “bubble” together outside their own homes. Betsy and Brad loved the area, convenience and experience so much, they decided to build their own getaway space within the Pine Lake Resort community, designing, building and investing in five beautiful cabins in the woods to share the exclusive adventure with others. They started building Broken Branch Lodge, a luxury cabin in Broken Bow, in October 2020, and one property soon turned into five. The last cabin was completed in January 2023.
Broken Branch Lodge’s incredible family room.
Broken Branch Lodge dining inspired by the beauty of nature.
Hillside Harmony features quiet living space.
Broken Branch Lodge’s incredible kitchen area.
Broken Branch Lodge game room.
Broken Branch Lodge bedroom.
These beautiful vacation rental cabins in the woods attract visitors from all over Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and other states. Each cabin has been custom designed as a private getaway for groups of all sizes, with unique features, high-end furnishings, resort-style amenities and concierge services.
Pine Lake Resort and Broken Branch Properties have also attracted media attention over the past year.
“Broken Branch Lodge was featured as part of the KTBS 3 (ABC Shreveport) Community Caravan series in 2023, with several live reports and a live tour of the outdoor and downstairs living areas. Additionally, Pine Lake Resort was recently featured on HGTV’s House Hunters show. After touring various cabins, the HGTV production crew selected Broken Branch Lodge as the setting for the show’s interviews, based on its scenic backdrop and luxurious furnishings. The crew even asked if they could stay at Broken Branch Lodge while they were filming, because they liked it so much!” says Betsy.
There are about 30 cabins in the Pine Lake Resort community, including the Broken Branch properties of Moonlight Vista, Hillside Harmony, Midnight Pines, Lakeside Landing and Broken Branch Lodge. Luxury bedding, spacious gathering areas, top-of-the-line kitchen facilities and stunning views of the surrounding nature are just a few of the things you'll find at whichever cabin you choose, no matter the size of your group. Moonlight Vista and Hillside Harmony sleep up to six people, while Midnight Pines and Lakeside Landing sleep up to 12. Broken Branch Lodge sleeps up to 25 guests for the
CONTINUED >
Each cabin has been custom designed as a private getaway for groups of all sizes, with unique features, high-end furnishings, resort-style amenities and concierge services.
Hillside Harmony breakfast nook.
Hillside Harmony bedroom.
Hillside Harmony welcomes you to serenity.
Lakeside Landing invites you to enjoy your natural surroundings in comfort.
Lakeside Landing’s incredible forest view is perfect for fireside relaxation.
Lakeside Landing.
Relax on the Lakeside Landing outdoor patio.
ultimate vacation experience. Every beautifully crafted and decorated cabin offers relaxation, luxurious living in the outdoors/indoors, and an incredible getaway with all the comforts of home and more.
Broken Branch Lodge, for example, offers over 5,700 sq. ft. of interior living space and is the flagship cabin of Broken Branch Properties, designed for spacious outdoor and indoor entertaining.
From the open concept, vaulted-ceiling living area to the fully-stocked kitchen featuring premium stainless-steel appliances, a six-burner gas range, two full-sized ovens and a full array of cooking tools, this luxury lodge offers multiple areas for dining, entertaining, playing games or exercising, getting together with friends and family in an oversized hot tub, enjoying the views and more.
The lodge’s entertainment room features a pool table, arcade machine, wet bar, board games and a full wall of HDTVs for enjoying movies, sporting events or other TV viewing.
The layout and furnishings allow large groups to gather and connect, while smaller, private areas are available to escape and unwind. The lodge sleeps up to 25 guests, and concierge services are available to cater your parties and make entertaining easy and worry free.
The lodge is a short walk to the Pine Lake pool, clubhouse, playground and stocked fishing pond.
The concierge services are a standout, Betsy notes. Onsite property managers are dedicated to making each family’s stay the very best experience.
“If you request, the Pine Lake staff will fill the refrigerator with groceries before you arrive, or arrange for special decorations if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Catering is also available for parties or events,” she says.
There are many things to do in the Broken Bow area, including fishing, hiking and swimming – and at Pine Lake, there are stocked fishing ponds, a children’s playground, a seasonal on-site grill and bar, and a clubhouse with TVs , a pool table and dining area.
“If you don’t want to, you don’t even have to leave the property,” Betsy says. “It all depends on what you like to do. Broken Branch and the Pine Lake community offer so many great choices.”
For Southlake residents, the trip to Broken Branch Lodge is only a three-hour drive.
broken-branch-properties.com
Midnight Pines.
Moonlight Vista’s outdoor fireplace is perfect for evening reading.
Creekside 24/7 Pet Care Center healthy pet tips
CREEKSIDE EXPLORES HOW TO KEEP PETS SAFE DURING THE HOT SUMMER MONTHS IN TEXAS
As the scorching summer months approach, Texas pet owners should take extra precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of their furry companions. The relentless heat and high humidity levels can pose significant risks to pets, leading to heatstroke, dehydration and other heat-related illnesses. By following some essential guidelines, pet owners can help their pets stay cool, comfortable and safe during the hot summer months.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS
The summer heat in Texas can be brutal, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are susceptible to heat-related illnesses because they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans. Dogs, for instance, primarily cool off by panting, which is less efficient in extreme heat. Cats, while more adept at finding cool spots, can still suffer in prolonged high temperatures.
SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE IN PETS
Recognizing the signs of heatstroke is crucial for timely intervention. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, lethargy, vomiting, and in severe cases, collapse. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Move your pet to a cooler area, offer small amounts of water, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Creekside Pet Care Center is open 24/7 for emergencies and pet wellness. If you are worried that your pet is showing signs of heat-related illness, call Creekside anytime at 817-421-5850.
TIPS FOR KEEPING PETS COOL
Hydration is key: Ensure your pets have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Dehydration can occur quickly in hot weather, so regularly check their water bowls and refill them as needed.
Limit outdoor activities: During peak heat hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, avoid strenuous activities like long walks or vigorous play. Opt for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
Provide shade and ventilation: If your pets are outside, make sure they have access to shaded areas and good airflow. Consider setting up a cooling mat or a kiddie pool filled with water for them to lie in.
Never leave pets in a parked car: Even with windows cracked, the temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly, posing a fatal risk to pets. If you need to run errands, leave your pets at home.
Grooming matters: Regular grooming can help maintain your pet’s coat and reduce the risk of overheating. However, avoid shaving your pet’s fur completely, as it provides natural insulation against the heat. If you’re interested in having your dog or cat groomed for the summer months, call Creekside at 817-421-5850.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR DIFFERENT PETS
Dogs: Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., bulldogs, pugs) are more prone to heat-related issues due to their short snouts. Senior dogs and those with health conditions also require extra care.
Cats: Ensure they have plenty of hiding spots and cool areas to retreat to. Keep them indoors during peak heat times.
Small animals and birds: Keep their cages out of direct sunlight and provide plenty of water. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing cages in hot, stuffy areas. If you’re concerned about your exotic pet, Creekside’s sister hospital, VO Vets, is just around the corner and offers exceptional care.
The hot summer months require pet owners to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their pets from the dangers of heat. By following these tips and keeping a close eye on your pets, you can do your best to ensure they remain healthy, happy and safe all summer long. Remember, a little extra care can go a long way in keeping your furry friends cool and comfortable.
Keeping pets hydrated is a must!
JULY 3RD
Southlake Stars and Stripes
Southlake Town Square | 5:00 PM
Make every moment sparkle at Southlake Stars and Stripes on July 3 at Southlake Town Square. From 5-11 pm. This free community event features food, family events, music, entertainment, a fireworks countdown and fireworks show.
JULY 10TH
Library Foundation of Southlake bring New York Times author to town
Southlake Town Hall, Third Floor, 1400 Main Street | 10:00 AM
The Library Foundation of Southlake (LFOS) brings New York Times middle-grades author James Ponti to the Southlake Public Library. The Edgar-award winning author for this “Framed” series and the popular “City Spies” collection will speak to attendees and hold twohour-long writing workshops with students. Visit cityofsouthlake.com/Calendar for more information.
JULY 29TH
Pre-registration for State Fair of Texas contests now open
Online submissions | 8:00 AM
Registration for the 2024 State Fair of Texas pre-Fair contests ends on Monday, July 29. There are opportunities for both kids and adults to enter, with more than 1,100 arts and crafts categories and 25 cooking contests. Registration is online. The State Fair runs from Sept. 27-Oct. 20. Visit bigtex.com and search "contests" for more information.
OCTOBER 5TH
Save the Date: Kids Matter Eagles Challenge Golf Tournament
Sky Creek Ranch in Keller | 10:30 AM
Mark your calendar now for the Kids Matter 2024 Eagles Challenge Golf Tournament. Sign up to play in the Hole-in-One Tournament for a chance to win up to $2,000,000 in cash and one-of-a-kind prizes. The tournament will take place on October 5 at Sky Creek Ranch in Keller. Visit eagleschallenge.org for sponsorship information and more details on the event.
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