Kids & Pets
Back to School
This month is "Back to School" for us in Texoma and also the perfect time to celebrate our Kids & Pets before we kick off another school year!
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Texoma's kids in this issue.
Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
In this issue, we get a chance to meet some of our partners and their beloved pets in "Partners and Pups". We learn how to also make "Dog Gone Good Treats" for our furry companions.
We hear about the history of the Battle of the Ax football game and how it has become an integral part of Texoma's end of summer rituals. Plus, let's explore the pickleball craze that is sweeping across America and right here in our community.
We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month and you end your summer with lots of fun memories and big smiles.
As always, thank you for reading and we'll see you around town!
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Danielle Poche | danielle.poche@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTOR
Roger Ireland | roger.ireland@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Jennifer Haveman | Jennifer.Haveman@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Katelyn Briscoe, Angela Broockerd, Sharla Davenport, Linda Ditch, Mike Zapata
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Courtney Mitchell, Janie Jones, Kristol Kumar
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
As parents, we always want to protect our teens, especially on the road. Ensure they are prepared for the unexpected with our essential Survival Guide.
• Step-by-Step Instructions: Clear guidance on what to do immediately after an accident.
• Expert Tips: Advice from experienced injury attorneys.
• Confidence & Peace of Mind: Empower your teens to handle emergencies effectively.
Developing Your Future
AUGUST 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Dunnihoos at the 2nd Quarter Business After Hours presented by Tanglewood Resort. 2: Jennifer Taylor and Melida Ailshire attending Charlie Willie Music Fest. 3: Congratulations to the Leadership Sherman Class of 2024 on their graduation! 4: Lloyd Plyler Construction partners with Sherman Main Street to host Don Felder at Hot Summer Nights. 5: Southern Striper Babes 6th Annual Women Striped Bass Fishing Tournament on Lake Texoma. 6: Sherman Mayor David Plyler welcomes HRH Queen Sylvia Nagginda, founder of the Nnabagereka Foundation, visiting from Uganda. 7: Cafe Blackbird hosts The Daytripper in downtown Denison.
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POTTSBORO CHAMBER
SHERMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CAFE BLACKBIRD
business monthly
ROCKHILL CAPITAL & INVESTMENTS BREAKS GROUND AT NOBLE RIDGE
As trusted partners for top homebuilders like K. Hovnanian Homes, Rockhill Capital & Investments breaks ground at Noble Ridge in Howe, Texas. This new community will include more than 700 new construction homes, a pool and covered space, a peaceful trail system, and parks with play equipment, shade structures, and seating areas. Rockhill Capital & Investments turnkey services ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and with the highest quality. Learn more at NobleRidgeTX.com
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AHS SHERMAN MEDICAL CENTER RIBBON CUTTING
AHS Sherman Medical Center celebrated their re-naming with a joint Sherman Chamber of Commerce and Denison Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on June 21st at 2:00 pm. The facility also acquired new equipment with their name change including a da Vinci Surgical robot. The hospital will continue to provide state-of-the-art care and an excellent patient experience for all in the community. 500 N.Highland Ave, Sherman
CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP
Since 1990, Centurion American has developed over 100,000 single-family lots in premier North Texas communities. Their award-winning master-planned developments feature parks, golf courses, and trails, and are located in areas with strong job growth, excellent schools, and convenient shopping. With a proven track record, Centurion consistently delivers exceptional value and ROI for investors, builders, and homeowners, creating vibrant, sustainable communities. For more information, visit CenturionAmerican.com
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Photography by Chamber of Commerce
KIND OF A BIG DILL
ARTICLE BY KATELYN BRISCOE
Pickleball’s Popularity Making Its Way To Our Home
Although nothing quite beats the crunch and zest of a well-fermented cucumber, pickles are no part of this newly popularized sport. Born from two Washington families’ boredom, pickleball came to life on a sunny day in the summer of 1965. Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell were returning to Pritchard’s home after a day of golf and arrived to find their families were looking for a way to pass the time. The two dads were not going to let an old badminton court without enough rackets lead their loved ones to summertime blues. Instead, they improvised with spare ping pong paddles and a wiffle ball. When Pritchard’s wife Joan noted its similarity to the thrown together crew of a rowing “pickle boat,” pickleball found its name and became a sport that quickly gained traction in the Pacific Northwest.
Now, it is the fastest growing sport in America. Last year alone, more than 13 million Americans picked up a pickleball paddle. The sport’s takeover began in 2022 when participation grew by 86 percent but has proven that it may be more than just a fad, as participation climbed 52 percent over
SWIG Mega Mug Available at Honeysuckle Rose
Tanglewood Resort
the past 12 months of 2023. Not only this, but the sport saw a 111 percent increase in participants who played frequently enough to reflect a passion for the game.
As Americans have not been known for their health, activity, or passion in recent years, this rise in pickleball popularity could be a positive step for many. So, what is it that put the sport in such high demand?
The fast-paced, friendly, and enjoyable nature of the game are to thank. For starters, it’s affordable and easy to pick up. Whether using jerry-rigged or DIY supplies, the gear needed to start playing
can cost next to nothing. You can always upgrade your gear if you fall head over heels for the game, as so many Americans have.
Designed with family enjoyment in mind, it only takes a few tries to figure out the game. This is one way that the sport is accessible, but it also is played on a small court, as well as fastpaced and close enough to socialize.
One of the best parts, in my opinion, is that pickleball—unlike some other sports—has no dress code. Obviously, athletic clothes that can be played and moved around in would be a wise choice, but removing the element of having to pay exuberant amounts of
The Grill at 84 West
“One of the best parts, in my opinion, is that pickleball— unlike some other sports—has no dress code. Obviously, athletic clothes that can be played and moved around in would be a wise choice, but removing the element of having to pay exorbitant amounts of money to afford one outfit for your sport of choice sure brings a smile to my face.”
money to afford one outfit for your sport of choice sure brings a smile to my face.
If you somehow haven’t had the opportunity to see what everyone’s talking about, pickleball has made its way to our community with courts waiting to be broken in. There are already pickleball courts at The Grill at 84 West in Denison. Enjoy a day out playing a game of pickleball with friends, then enjoy a peaceful meal overlooking beautiful scenery. Looking to play in Pottsboro? Make a reservation at the recently renovated pickleball courts, located in the Raquet Center at Tanglewood Resort. See you on the court!
The Grill at 84 West 5216 FM84 Denison, TX
An elegant wine bar located in the historic Katy Depot, Downtown Denison
ARTICLE BY MIKE ZAPATA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE ZAPATA & COURTESY PHOTOS
TEXAS’S LONGEST HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL RIVALRY
THE BATTLE OF THE AX
Sherman Bearcat Stadium Sherman Bearcat Stadium
As the summer winds down, Texans have just one thought on their mind: Football. Texoma residents will witness one of the biggest games in Texas. The Battle of the Ax is the longest continuous rivalry in Texas high school football. Since 1901, the Sherman Bearcats and the Denison Yellowjackets have battled each
where the importance lies. Winning our district and advancing in the playoffs is where our focus is. But it’s been nice to lift that axe in victory every time I have coached this game. You will find very few casual fans at these high school football games. There are bragging rights, and there are lifetime bragging rights. That is what this game gives you.”
“THERE ARE BRAGGING RIGHTS, AND THERE ARE LIFETIME
BRAGGING RIGHTS.”
other on the field and the rivalry is still the biggest event in the Texoma area.
Brent Whitson was hired as the Denison head coach and athletic director in 2021 after coaching in South Grand Prairie for 10 years. When asked if he was familiar with the Battle of the Ax prior to his arrival he said “Absolutely. I grew up and played in Ada so I was familiar with Denison and the game.” He also acknowledged the importance of the game to the community. “This game brings a lot of depth to the community. It is a big deal to the kids. But as coaches, it is a big deal because of the kids and the community, but it is not to us in the same manner. We know that what comes afterwards is really
Denison Assistant Coach Ronnie Mullins who came to Denison with Coach Whitson agrees. “It’s a big deal, and it isn’t. We really want to win this game. With the game's history and importance in the community, we definitely want to bring the ax back home. But right after the game, we get right back at it preparing for our district games. Unless you get to see this game in person, you just can’t compare it to any other high school football game. It is just that big. The atmosphere. The crowd. The noise. It really is something every high school football fan should experience at least once.”
Although it is a huge rivalry, you will not hear trash-talking between the coaches.
Denison's Whitson was very complimentary of the opposing team’s coaching staff. He made it a point to laud Sherman Coach Josh Aleman. “I think the world of Coach Aleman. I was so happy to see him come home and take this job. He is the right guy for that job and a quality individual and a Bearcat all the way through. I hope he loses his opener but I wish only the best for him. Their athletic director Jeff Cordell is another good one. He is a local guy too, so it was good to see him come back here.”
Sherman Ex-Students Museum Director James Perry said he attended his first Battle of the Ax game in 1967 and has fond memories of all the games he has attended. He states that it's a great experience to be a part of the longest high school football rivalry in Texas. But as divisive as the game was in the past, he feels that is no longer the case. “Yes it still is a rivalry and a big deal in Sherman and Denison, but this is an event that really brings both communities together. It brings positive attention to the Texoma area. Both cities benefit from this game. Citizens and fans get involved and get to know each other while supporting the young people in their communities. Community spirit is alive and well in Sherman and Denison.” He invites people interested in the rivalry to come by and visit the Sherman Ex-Students Museum to see artifacts, photos, and yearbooks from these historic football games.
Game Ball 1929
Head Coach Whitson lifts the Ax in Victory
“YOU JUST DON’T KNOW.” SO UNTIL THEN, ENJOY TEXAS’S OLDEST HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL RIVALRY WHILE YOU CAN AND BE PART OF
HISTORY. PICK A SIDE OR JUST COME ENJOY ONE OF THE GREATEST HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCES OF YOUR LIFE.
Nat McClure, agent/owner of Nat McClure State Farm Insurance in Sherman, has great memories of his playing days in Denison. “Sherman was on a 14 year winning streak and I was a member of the Yellowjacket team that beat Sherman in 1982. In my mind, it was a turning point. A catalyst for things to come in the Texoma area. I was so glad to be a part of that. People still talk about that game in 1982. It was bigger than just a football game.”
How long will the rivalry continue?
Coach Whitson feels like there may be a time when the Battle of the Ax will be over. “You just don’t know." So until then, enjoy Texas's oldest high school football rivalry while you can and be part of history. Pick a side or just come enjoy one of the greatest high school experiences of your life.
Game Ball 1951
Denison Assistant Coach Ronnie Mullins after the game
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
DOG
SOCIALIZING TIPS:
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH |
summer is POPSICLE SEASON
KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR
As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kid-friendly activity.
SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 quarts Concord grape juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 12 whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 3 tablespoons whole allspice
directions:
Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
YOUR HOMETOWN ROOFERS GIVE BACK LOCALLY
ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY MITCHELL
The Stagle Family
We always tell people to use local people. The business is competitive, but we are a local company. We live here and it’s our home. If there is a problem, we can fix it because we are here.
Denison’s own, President Dwight Eisenhower, perhaps said it best, “For any American who had the great and priceless privilege of being raised in a small town there always remains with him nostalgic memories.” Kim and Cody Slagle wholeheartedly agree having grown up in Denison where they are also currently raising their children. The owners of Get Roofed believe in serving their cherished community with roofing and construction needs, but also with charitable acts of service.
With two active children, the Slagles understand that kids in sports do not always get the recognition they deserve. They also realize that select or club sports can be very expensive. As such, the Slagles made it their mission for Get Roofed to sponsor and support student athletes, clubs and organizations, and youth sports for the Denison area.
You may have seen various student athletes showcased throughout the year by Get Roofed on a local billboard in Denison. Kim Slagle says, “Kids look forward to seeing the athletes and their accomplishments.” The athletes are chosen from staff within the Denison athletic department. “We love honoring our Yellowjackets,” Kim continued. Get Roofed loves the teams so much, they are the main sponsor on the Megatron scoreboard at the Denison football stadium. Plus, they help fund t-shirts for the annual “Pink Out” game honoring Breast Cancer Awareness as well as commemorative footballs thrown by cheerleaders to the fans.
The Slagles also support Denison youth baseball and football teams and the Texas Baseball Club. This summer the Get Roofed billboard will highlight a Texas Baseball Club athlete. In addition, Get Roofed also assists the Grayson County College baseball and softball teams with assorted sponsorships.
Their support for kids in Texoma is not limited to sports. The couple helps many other organizations in the area such as the Denison FFA (Future Farmers
of America) program. They help at livestock sales, the club fundraisers, and other projects. Facilitating the FFA students with their future careers in agriculture is important to the Slagles. Lastly, Get Roofed is an advocate for the Texoma Community Shelter. Recently, they provided a free roof and assist with yearly fundraisers, thereby helping many families and children with much needed services.
Giving back to the Texoma region is a special honor for the Slagles. It is why the family continues to live in Denison. “We are a close-knit community,” says Kim. “From Friday Night Football to Lake Texoma, everyone likes that hometown feeling. I want my kids to grow up in the same environment we did and learn to serve others,” she notes.
Known as “Your Hometown Roofers”, Cody Slagle has been in the roofing and construction business for over thirteen years. Get Roofed specializes in residential and commercial roofing, new construction, and roof replacement and repair. Get Roofed is one of only two mastery elite contractors in the Texoma area elevating their level of expertise, knowledge, and skills. The company is conveniently licensed in Texas and Oklahoma reaching all customers in the entire region.
Finally, Get Roofed provides numerous other services like painting, windows, siding, and fencing projects. Cody Slagle believes offering a variety of services is a great way to support local businesses. He states, “We always tell people to use local people.” The business is competitive, “but we are a local company. We live here and it’s our home. If there is a problem, we can fix it because we are here,” he continues.
The Slagles will always be considered local. They agree with Eisenhower’s assessment about living in a small town. By servicing the families of Texoma, they continue to support and aid their beloved home.
GetRoofedUSA.com 903.465.7663
PARTNERS PUPS &
While it’s the dog days of summer for most of North Texas, “dog days” take on a whole new meaning for some of our partners. To them, every day year-round is a dog day spent celebrating and loving on their precious pups. Meet some of our partners and their beloved dogs.
• Dustin & Jason Badgett, Owner of Absolute Aesthetics, with Daisy, Ginger, and Canyon
• Alisha Rosenthal, Owner of Spa 31, with Blu and Penny
• Tasha Davis, Director of Marketing at Centurion American, with Minnie & Rocco
• Lainie Ramsey, Realtor at Homes by Lainie Real Estate Group, with Maggie & Jim
• Sid Laub, General Manager at Freedom Boat Club of Texoma, with Sylvie
Dustin and Jason Badgett with Daisy, Ginger, and Canyon
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY
Alisha Rosenthal with Blu & Penny
Sid Laub with Sylvie
Lainie Ramsey with Maggie & Jim
Tasha Davis with Rocco & Minnie
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
AUGUST 2024
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Dino Days and Ice Age
THE SHERMAN MUSEUM | 10:00 AM
Dino Days are back this summer at The Sherman Museum. This year, a few creatures from the Ice Age have joined them! Learn about these creatures and a little about our history as you stroll the exhibits. A Night at the Museum session will be offered on the 16th that includes a flashlight tour! TheShermanMuseum.org
AUGUST 3RD
Pitbull Concert
CHOCTAW CASINOS AND RESORTS, DURANT | 8:00 PM
Head up to Choctaw as Mr. Worldwide comes to you! Performing at Choctaw Grand Theater, Pitbull promises a night to remember with his top hits and unmatched energy! For tickets and to learn more, visit ChoctawCasinos.com
AUGUST 3RD
Denison Farmer's Market
700 BLOCK MAIN ST, DENISON | 9:00 AM
The Downtown Denison Farmers Market is a local Texoma market that offers locally grown produce, locally raised meats, & artisan crafted goods! Open Saturdays from 9:00am to noon in the 700 block on Main St, the market provides a wide variety of homemade and homegrown goods. Visit DowntownDenisonFarmersMarket.com
As a family-owned and operated construction company, we take pride in seamlessly blending cutting-edge building technology with meticulous attention to detail. Experience the difference of a builder who values lasting relationships, delivering excellence in every project we undertake.
CONTINUED
AUGUST 8TH
Open Mic Night
THE MILIEU WINE BAR, SHERMAN | 7:00 PM
A revitalization effort in downtown Sherman of developments, renovations and upgrades is underway! Urban Sherman is committed to doing its part in rebuilding our classic downtown. Contact us for available properties.
Join us at The Milieu Wine Bar on the second Thursday each month for Open Mic Night! You are invited to share your short performances, whether it's poetry, storytelling, songs, or music and enjoy a glass of wine and great tunes! We can't wait to hear the talent from our local community! Learn more about all events at MilieuWine.com
AUGUST 15TH
Un-Plug Texoma Business After Hours
TEXOMA ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION, SHERMAN | 4:00 PM
Join us for UN-PLUG TEXOMA Business After Hours at Texoma Roofing and Construction! UN-PLUG TEXOMA is the Sherman Chamber of Commerce's monthly networking event held the 3rd Thursday of each month at a different business. TexomaRoofing.com
AUGUST 30TH
Battle of the Ax
MUNSON STADIUM, DENISON | 7:00 PM
It's said to be the longest standing football rivalry in Texas - the Sherman Bearcats vs the Denison Yellow Jackets! Head over to Munson Stadium to see who will take home the axe and win the season's bragging rights! For tickets, visit: DenisonISD.Wixsite. com/DenisonISD-Athletics
Nestled within Rock Creek Resort on Lake Texoma,
this beautiful 2-story residence crafted by acclaimed builder Cashion Custom Homes is exclusively available to members of this prestigious 1,300-acre community. Embracing privacy on a prime lot ensconced by lush trees and a tranquil creek, the home boasts luxurious custom finishes, including a soaring wood cathedral ceiling, hand-scraped wood floors, wrought-iron light fixtures, and granite countertops throughout.
This meticulously designed retreat not only embodies luxury but also offers access to the resort’s renowned amenities such as an award-winning Nicklaus-designed golf course, pro shop, clubhouse, pool, marina, private boat slips, gym, and a myriad of recreational activities, making it an unparalleled haven for both relaxation and recreation.
Scan the QR code for more information or to schedule your appointment
