Happy Trails!
We must leave room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.
Every summer, our family heads to our log cabin in Colorado. There we "unplug", hike mountain trails, eat our lunches by a stream, read books on the deck, and just spend time reconnecting with each other and nature. It is our favorite time of the year.
As my children have grown older, I've noticed that "adventures" and “exploration” doesn't even have to be something big and crazy and definitely doesn't have to be in the Rocky Mountains. It can be playing a family board game around the kitchen table, walking a new trail in the community or going out to find a fun hot spot we've never been to before.
Explore Lake Texoma whether it be by boat with Freedom Boat Club or on foot on one the trails. Learn about both in our Explore Summer issue. Check out Sherman's Hot Summer Nights line up for July and let's catch a wave with The Beach Boys! Grab a summer sweet treat at Cafe Blackbird in downtown Denison and cool down lakeside. Texoma is really heating up for summer!
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.
As always, thank you for reading and we'll see you around town. Happy Trails, friends!
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @TEXOMACITYLIFESTYLE
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTOR
Roger Ireland | roger.ireland@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Danielle Poche' | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kenzie Baca
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kenzie Baca, Christine Clark, Sharla Davenport, Roger Ireland, Nathan Knottingham
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Courtney Mitchell, Nathan Knottingham
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
Learn
You focus on healing. We take care of everything else.
At Snellings Law, we’re more than just lawyers - we’re your neighbors and friends. We live and work in the community, ensuring personal treatment for every client. Trust us to guide you through the personal injury process with care, ensuring top medical care and a fair resolution.
If you or a loved one have suffered a serious or catastrophic injury due to the negligence of someone else, we can help you recover past and future damages, including:
Medical Expenses - Lost Wages - Pain And Suffering - Impairment
This month, we are honoring members of our community who pave the way for people with disabilities. From former Ms. Wheelchair Texas winner, to the founder of the Brain Injury Network of Dallas, we are proud to learn through conversation on The Driven Crowd Podcast. As personal injury lawyers, we have had the honor to help many disabled clients navigate their injuries and obtain the medical care they need.
Valerie Gotcher Amanda Baze-Hall
Developing the Future
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
United Mortgage
1: Texoma FC and Brad Rhodes at the Starfish Benefit held at Blue Willow Cafe. 2: Bandits, Bluegrass and BBQ at the Green Growler in downtown Denison. 3: Roger Ireland and David Downtain at Craft the Night Away hosted by Downtown Sherman Now 4: Sherman Main Street unveiling the new Main Street sign 5: Michelle Castle and Alli Deshotels at Starfish Benefit by Child & Family Guidance Center of Texas 6: First
Group’s Tonya Hudgins and Haley Halcomb celebrating Denison Chamber’s Leadership Class 7: Opening Day for Sherman Shadowcats!
MAUREEN STEVENSON
SHERMAN MAIN STREET
DISCOVER DENISON
CHILD & FAMILY GUIDANCE CENTER OF TEXAS
DENISON CHAMBER
business monthly
MAIN STREET IN DOWNTOWN SHERMAN
Sherman, Texas now has a Main Street! New signage was unveiled at the end of May on Houston and Travis Street. More signs to come between the Central Fire Station and the Sherman Public Library. This portion of Travis is designated as the City of Sherman's honorary "Main Street" (though the street will officially remain Travis). There is great momentum in downtown Sherman right now with many exciting things on the horizon! Follow @ShermanMainStreet
TAKE A HIKE
Explore Texoma Hiking Trails
Take a hike! The Texoma area is full of unique trails to explore. Whether you enjoy a waterside view or a trail full of mature trees, you can find what you’re looking for at one of the many area exploration sites.
There are many reasons why people enjoy hiking outdoors, and once you are bitten by the trail-bug it can be hard to resist your next outdoor adventure. Hiking is great exercise, but there is more to the health benefits of exercise than meets the eye. Regular nature hikes strengthen our heart, lungs, and muscles, as well as our mind. Hiking is a weight-bearing exercise, which builds muscle mass and helps prevent osteoporosis and can also help you manage your weight. Hitting the trails can boost your mood, improve your sleep and reduce your risk of heart disease.
So, the next time you reach the top of a hill at the end of a dirt path, pause to admire the view and appreciate all you’re doing for your health and happiness. You don’t have to travel far to find your favorite path. Explore Texoma!
Regional Park
“Hiking is great exercise, but there is more to the health benefits of exercise than meets the eye. Regular nature hikes strengthen our heart, lungs, and muscles, as well as our mind.”
Waterloo boasts a seven mile hike trail circling the scenic Waterloo Lake. This beautiful path at Waterloo Lake Regional Park connects the RR trestle, parallels the dam, passes the cave, and finishes at the playground. This is a popular trail for hiking and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
1001 Waterloo Lake Drive, Denison
Waterloo Lake
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Hiking Trails
Hagerman NWR features five inviting and well maintained hiking trails. The hiking trails wind around ponds, across meadows and through native prairie with beautiful views of Lake Texoma. These are excellent trails for birding, nature photography or just observing nature. Walk through a range of several different habitats and search for Eastern Bluebirds and other songbirds.
Cross Timbers
Hiking Trail at Lake Texoma
The Cross Timbers Trail is a defining feature of the North Texas and Southern Oklahoma landscape. This fourteen mile trail which was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers largely runs parallel to the southern shoreline of the Lake Texoma. It begins at Juniper Point and runs West crossing through Cedar Bayou and Rock Creek Resorts before coming to its conclusion at Paw Paw Creek.
The Armadillo Hill Trail is an out and back trail located at Eisenhower State Park along Lake Texoma. It is roughly .8 mile in length if hiked end to end or 1.6 miles roundtrip. For a short trail, it offers a lot. It includes numerous elevation changes. Several interpretive markers educate you on the plant life, geology, and natural history found along the trail.
6465 Refuge Road, Sherman 32843 US-377, Gordonville Eisenhower Road, Denison
Armadillo Hill Trail at Eisenhower State Park
The Grill & Venue at 84 West is located in scenic, historical Denison, Texas. Our restaurant, event center, and pickleball courts sit on 250 acres of scenic woods and greenery, with a beautiful lakeside view.
Whether you’re visiting us for craft cocktails,
brunch, a game of pickleball , or a special event, your visit to The Grill & Venue at 84 West is guaranteed to be a one-of-a-kind experience.
FASHION | JEWELRY | BAGS | HOME DECOR | SHOES
DISCOVER POTTSBORO
A
More Than
Sleepy Lake Town
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATHAN KNOTTINGHAM
Photo Credit: Courtney Mitchell
Pottsboro, a town started by ranchers and surrounded by ranches, may not be well-known unless you have a reason to drive through it. However, as Grayson County continues to grow and change, this is likely to change too. Despite these changes, one thing remains consistent about Pottsboro - community is key and greatly cherished.
If you’ve watched any of the new Western TV shows inspired by Yellowstone 's success, you might have come across 1883 and Lawmen: Bass Reeves. Both of these shows have stories connected to the Pottsboro area and the cattle drives that went through. While these are small moments in the docuseries,
they are historically relevant to what the area was like when it began. Pottsboro (originally Pottsborough) was founded by combining land from two landowners: Judge James G. Thompson and Mr. James Archer Potts, who both owned large ranches at the site of the future town. To influence the continuation of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, James A. Potts donated land for a town and a right-ofway so the MKT Railroad would extend tracks westward from Denison to his settlement. This act set the tone for Pottsboro to be, and continue to serve as, an agricultural provider for the surrounding area (Bauman, Natalie
Clountz. 2014. Pottsboro Texas and Lake Texoma Then ... and Now).
However, as is often the case, progress brings change. Lake Texoma was constructed during World War II, though funding was approved and authorized through the Flood Control Act of 1938 (Public Law No. 761, 75th Congress, 3rd Session). The construction of the Denison Dam, the hydroelectric turbines, and the flood control system set the stage for a new purpose for Pottsboro. The town was ready to welcome many visitors as Lake Texoma grew in popularity.
Today, Pottsboro has a unique blend of small-town charm and a transformative spirit of growth as the area expands. Some of the greatest attractions include worldclass Striper Bass fishing at Lake Texoma, CONTINUED >
“POTTSBORO IS A WONDERFULCOMMUNITY TO C EXCELLENT SCHOOL SYSTEM, THERE’S NO PLACE WITH SMALL-TOWN CHARM, CLOSE-KNIT RESIDEN
the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, and the proximity to the North Texas Regional Airport. The airport is historically intriguing and is setting a strong pace for future development with transportation at its core. All of these factors bring purpose and accessibility to Pottsboro.
Despite the growth around Pottsboro, you’d be missing out if you just drove through the town to your next destination. Pottsboro hosts amazing locally-owned businesses that offer great hospitality. Places like Zellie Blue Boutique, Buxton Nook, which focuses on local artisans, and Sugar & Spice Cafe are all worth visiting - and there are so many more fantastic spots in Pottsboro. Make sure to pick up a Pottsboro Area Chamber of Commerce directory when you make it to town to discover more.
One of the greatest things about Pottsboro is its community spirit. Local associations and groups
take pride in the town and do great things. You’re likely to find a parade during national holidays, events hosted by service leagues, and parties at the lake throughout the summer. One of the best places to track all the activities in and around Pottsboro is the Pottsboro Area Chamber of Commerce [Pottsboro Area Chamber of Commerce](https://www.pottsborochamber.com/)). The Executive Director, Missy Weaver, is up-to-date on local happenings.
Lainie Ramsey grew up in Pottsboro and returned to establish her business (Home by Lainie Real Estate Group) and invest in her town. She recently shared that “Pottsboro is a wonderful community to call home. With small-town charm, close-knit residents, and an excellent school system, there’s no place I’d rather be. It's somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of neighboring towns, yet close enough to enjoy their amenities and the expansive lake in our backyard. Our community events, like Frontier Day and the Boot Scootin' Ball, bring friends and neighbors together to support local businesses or raise funds for emergency services. Whether you’ve lived here all your life or just moved in, you’ll find it easy to get to know your neighbors.”
By the numbers, Pottsboro isn’t going to win awards for the fastest-growing, wealthiest, or biggest industrial development. And, I think I can safely say that we’re okay with that. When the local Facebook group was surveyed, the comments that stood out the most were that Pottsboro is a small community with big hearts, genuine with each other, and ready to welcome anyone who decides to visit, stay for the summer, or even make Pottsboro their new home. So find Pottsboro on your map and swing by for a visit anytime, where there's always a seat open at our table for you.
HOT SUMMER NIGHTS
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE CLARK
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CITY OF SHERMAN
SHERMAN’S CONCERT SERIES IS A MUST SEE
Sherman’s Hot Summer Nights concert series is a family-friendly music festival. Hosted by Sherman’s Tourism and Main Street program, it offers free concerts on Thursday nights starting at 7:00PM at Lucy Kidd-Key Park.
Now in its 30th year of production, the tradition has been kept alive by the town’s Mayor David Plyer who has a passion for classic rock, Sherman’s City Council, and funded through grants, sponsorships, and city hotel tax fund. The mix of talent is designed to be multi-generational with different local talent opening each event. Food trucks and vendors are at every concert selling a mix of carnival food and regional favorites.
Bring your lawn chairs, pack a cooler, or just show up and enjoy an evening on the grass. Learn more at ShermanTX.org
JULY 3RD:
The 15th Annual Lights on the Lake at Pecan Grove West Park will be held on Wednesday, July 3rd, featuring the world-famous band THE BEACH BOYS live in concert! Get ready for a FREE, fun-filled, family-friendly Independence Day celebration. DJ Jackie VanZant will kick off the party until The Beach Boys take the stage! Stick around when the sun goes down for a firework show brought to you by Simmons Bank.
02 03 04
Welcome FIVE FOR FIGHTING, the stage name of Vladimir John Ondrasik III, a singer-songwriter and pianist who is best known for songs such as “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” and “100 Years”. Cela Harper, a fantastic local talent, will kick off the show. Following the concert, head to downtown Sherman to the official After Party at The Old Iron Post (101 N. Travis St., Sherman)!
JULY 11TH : JULY 25TH:
JULY 18TH
WHEATUS will be joining us on the Gazebo Stage. They are a five-member band of recent TikTok fame known for their 20-year-old release of “Teenage Dirtbag”. Their classic rock sound has found a new generation. Leading off this show will be local group AC/ TC Alex Cantrell, and Tony Cook featuring alternative acoustic rock. Don’t forget the official After Party at The Old Iron Post.
Wrap up our 30th year of the Hot Summer Nights concert series with the first-ever Noche Caliente and welcome A.B. QUINTANILLA III & THE KUMBIA ALL STARZ. This Corpus Christi band has been at the top of the Billboard Latin Album Chart, Top Latin Album Chart, and the United States Billboard 200. This will be a fun night of Tejano Dance music.
Lake Living With Coryann Johnson
ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT
ESCAPE TO THE LAKE WITH TEXAS HOMES AND LAND REALTOR
Coryann Johnson
Lake Texoma is known as the “Playground of the Southwest” attracting millions of visitors each year. Texas Homes and Land realtor, Coryann Johnson, is no stranger to Lake Texoma as she and her family have enjoyed lake life for many years. During the warmer months and summer season, you can find Coryann and her family at her property in the Cedar Mills Marina community.
Beginning Memorial Day through the early fall, Coryann is at the lake practically every weekend. “We spend a lot of time on the lake and enjoy it there,” she says. “The time that we spend at Lake Texoma as a family with cousins and grandchildren is so special. We just love being outdoors on the lake creating special memories,” Coryann continues.
Coryann and her husband, Jeff, appreciate the slower pace and relaxed life of Lake Texoma away from the “rat race of the city.” And you can’t really visit the lake without a boat, so naturally, the Johnson’s have one. In fact, they have “all the toys” according to Coryann -- a fishing boat, surf boat, and jet skis allowing the family to enjoy the lake in every way possible for whatever activity they desire.
Like many of the millions of people who visit each year, Coryann and her family also like to fish at Lake Texoma. Lake Texoma is infamous for the enormous striped bass, largemouth bass, crappies and abundant, sizeable catfish. It is the fishing that keep Coryann and Jeff coming to the lake long after the summer months end, throughout the fall. She notes it is one of their favorite hobbies and interests. “My escape is the lake,” Coryann affirms. It’s where she can relax, experience breathtaking nature, and break free from the stress of everyday life.
Besides the beauty and love of the lake, Coryann appreciates the Texoma community, deep with friendly people and families. She confirms, “The whole Texoma area is full of people who are welcoming and make you feel at home.” And while the region is developing in and around the lake, Coryann is gratified by how the community adapts to the growth with good city planning but still maintaining the small-town feel. While there are substantial changes ensuing around the lake and in the Texoma region, Coryann contends, “There is a positive side of the growth as it provides more commerce and more enjoyment for the area.”
As the owner of Texas Homes and Land real estate, Coryann has direct knowledge of land developments in the region. It is her desire to assist people in finding their “escape” in the Texoma area, experiencing the love for the lake and region that she adores. A realtor for over twenty-eight years, Coryann knows the Texoma and North Texas area. She has newly renovated office buildings in both Collinsville and Celina allowing a greater focus on servicing people in Grayson, Collin, Denton, Cooke and surrounding counties. Coryann and her real estate team feel “blessed to sell in this rural area” successfully supporting families in finding acreage, horse properties, hunting ranches, and farms.
Coryann observes that people’s interest in wanting to move out of the big cities for a country and lake lifestyle continues to flourish. Now is the time to buy land, according to Coryann, as the region will only continue to develop driving prices up with demand. “It’s time to buy now,” says Coryann. “The whole North Texas and Texoma area is prime and is a good market.”
When not at Lake Texoma, Coryann Johnson and her husband enjoy their farm and ranch life on their land in Collinsville. Having lived on a farm and ranch for over twenty years has provided immense experience for her real estate business. She is very active in Grayson county including attending church at First Baptist Collinsville. In addition, she volunteers her time serving on the local Chamber of Commerce, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Economic Development Commission.
Nevertheless, nothing compares to her time at Lake Texoma. Having grown up in North Texas and raised her family also in the area, Coryann Johnson is no stranger to the abundant land, real estate market, and the natural beauty of Lake Texoma. For Coryann, she knows why it is called the “Playground of the Southwest” as there is so much to do and enjoy on the lake. There’s simply no better sanctuary from city life. It is a place near and dear to her heart.
Texas Homes and Land TexasHomeAndLand.com 214.908.5468
“THE
TIME THAT WE SPEND AT LAKE TEXOMA AS A FAMILY WITH COUSINS AND GRANDCHILDREN IS SO SPECIAL. WE JUST LOVE BEING OUTDOORS ON THE LAKE CREATING SPECIAL MEMORIES,” CORYANN CONTINUES.
LAKE LIFE MADE SIMPLE
ARTICLE BY ROGER IRELAND | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FREEDOM BOAT CLUB
FREEDOM BOAT CLUB MAKES
ENJOYING THE LAKE HASSLE-FREE
With summer here and the mercury rising, there is no better way to beat the heat than a trip to the lake. Freedom Boat Club of North Texas has made enjoying the lake hassle-free while remaining cost-effective. As owner Sue Wallace explained, “It is lake life made simple.” All you need to do is reserve the boat on an easy to use website and show up. The dock team greets you and helps you onto the boat and that’s that – you’re on the water! The convenience of the club means you can go to a soccer game in the morning, wakeboard or go tubing in the afternoon, and be home for dinner.
With more than thirty boats to choose from including Sea Rays, center consoles, deck boats, surf boats, and Tri-Toons, you’re not constrained to a single lake experience. And given locations on Lake Lewisville and Lake Texoma in addition to over 400 other locations across the nation and the world, the possibilities are literally endless. Freedom Boat Club members can indulge in yearround boating and all the fun and joy it has to offer without the burdensome tasks of cleaning and maintenance or the recurring costs of insurance and repair that come with ownership.
While offering tremendous benefits and reach, Freedom Boat Club of North Texas is also a locally owned and operated family business. Shortly after starting the boat club, Sue’s son Chris joined to oversee operations and sales and her husband John joined to manage fleet sales. Together, they get to share their passion for lake life with the region. Six years ago, when considering retiring from the corporate world, Sue was looking for other business opportunities. A colleague who was a club member in Florida introduced the idea. Having grown up boating, the notion of doing something she loved and sharing that with the broader community just made sense.
Sharing fun on the water with family and friends is what it’s all about. While Sue notes that members often love taking clients out on the boat rather than another boring lunch meeting, it really is a respite from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. A trip to the lake offers families an opportunity to disconnect from the wired world and reconnect with each other. As Sue recalled from her own experience, “I loved to see the smile on kid's faces as they were tubing or getting up on a wakeboard or skis for the first time. It’s also fun to see the amazement of kids watching their parents do the same thing.”
One of the best advantages of a boat club is the opportunity to enjoy different lakes with absolutely no hassle or effort. Lake Lewisville is an oasis in the middle of the urban sprawl that offers lots of family friendly parks and excellent water for skiing and wakeboarding. Lake Texoma is much larger with more beaches and hiking/camping opportunities as well as being renowned for striper fishing. Both have excellent restaurants and bars that you can enjoy before or after you take a day on the water. Chris recommends The Point and Parlor at Grandpappy Point, Schooners, The Island Bar and Grill, Pelicans Landing, or the Lake House at Alberta Creek on Lake Texoma. On Lake Lewisville, Rockin’ S at Hidden Cove or the recently reopened Charlies at Pier 121, home pier to the boat club.
In the end, Freedom Boat Club is all about making waves of fun and excitement! Comprehensive training programs not only ensure safety but also foster confidence and expertise among members, enabling them to navigate and enjoy the water with ease with their friends and family. Boating is about being part of a larger community as well. Building on their existing calendar of events such as fishing seminars and outings as well as the Women's boating group that gathers for fun outings on the water together, the club plans to deliver a full social calendar that is jam-packed with events tailor-made for mingling and making connections with other boaters.
To become a member at either Lake Texoma or Lake Lewisville, contact Sid Laub at 903419-2339 or sid.laub@freedomboatclub.com
Sue and John Wallace, Owners
2 3 4 5
CAFE Blackbird
SUMMER SWEETS 5
Stop in Cafe Blackbird in downtown Denison for brunch, lunch, or grab a sweet treat to go!
1.STRAWBERRY LEMONADE CAKE - taste summer in every bite
2. CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIESbaked fresh and perfectly paired with a cup of coffee to go
3.CROFFLES - topped with strawberries with cream is the best way to start the day
4.OATMEAL CREAM PIES - gooey goodness for that afternoon treat
5. CARROT CAKE - the cutest cake you ever did see
309 W. Main, Denison @CafeBlackbird Summer Sweets
TEXOMA SWIM ACADEMY
MAKING WAVES IN TEXOMA
TEACHING SWIM SAFETY
ARTICLE BY KENZIE BACA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY MITCHELL
Christy Baca, Owner
Nestled in scenic North Texas, where the charm of small-town hospitality meets the allure of expansive waterways, Texoma Swim Academy represents as a beacon of water safety and competency. With a mission to nurture confidence, promote skill progression, and inspire excellence in swimmers of all ages and learning styles, Christy Baca provides quality dedication and personalized instruction adapted to meet the needs of her students.
Baca graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in Special Education in 1995 before embarking on her passion for adaptive swim safety. Since then, she has continued to develop her education and skillset through certification courses such as Swim Angelfish’s Swim Whisperer Level 4 and US Masters Swim Coaching. In 2018, Baca combined her higher education background and passion for inclusive learning with the ever-growing need for water safety and swim techniques to do her part in helping prevent an increase in the number of in-water injuries and drownings.
Texoma Swim Academy has evolved into a team of 3 instructors. Whether it’s guiding parents and toddlers through their first aquatic experiences, refining techniques for seasoned athletes, or adapting a personalized plan for unique learners, the instructors bring knowledge, enthusiasm, and patience to every lesson, ensuring each swimmer receives the instruction they need to survive and thrive in, and around water.
What sets Texoma Swim Academy apart is its comprehensive approach to swim education. Beyond mastering strokes, their curriculum emphasizes water safety, drowning prevention,
and personal empowerment, equipping swimmers with essential skills that extend far beyond the confines of the pool.
Texoma Swim Academy prides itself on its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all swim learners. With lessons tailored to accommodate diverse needs, abilities, and learning styles, they ensure that every swimmer, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment.
2024 has already been an inspiring year for Texoma Swim Academy. Baca was awarded a grant that she intends to utilize for the purpose of providing lessons to a handful of children with disabilities and that require adaptive teaching. In May, Mayor David Plyler declared it Water Safety Month for the City of Sherman, encouraging the community to be prepared for any circumstance in and around the water to help prevent drownings.
Christy and her team share in the joys of aquatic adventure with families from all across North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. Texoma Swim Academy fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie that extends far beyond the water's edge. It's a destination where dreams are realized, skills are honed, and futures are shaped. With its unwavering commitment to excellence, safety, and inclusivity, it continues to make waves in Texoma; inspiring generations to dive in, explore their potential, and embrace the empowered confidence of swim safety.
903.816.9342 | IG @TexomaSwimAcademy
“Texoma Swim Academy brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and patience to every lesson, ensuring that each swimmer receives the confidence they need to survive and thrive in and around water.”
AND FIND YOUR PEACE GET LOST
Exploring The Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Just on the outskirts of Austin, nestled on 400 acres of luscious and sprawling countryside, this fun-filled resort does not disappoint. Think Texas home-style ranch meets Southern luxury. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is a family-friendly destination that offers an array of activities for all ages to enjoy.
Guests are transported to a simpler time where both adults and kids can be seen casually riding bicycles around the property or strolling along the Colorado River that hugs the resort. Open areas with yard games, outdoor game tables, sports courts and a mini golf course invite families to engage in activities that allow for quality time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Choose between an adventurous getaway or a serene escape, as Lost Pines Resort and Spa has something for everyone. Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more. Cool off poolside at one of the many pools, or float on the 1,000-foot lazy river. Whether you’re a new or experienced golfer, the expansive, 18-hole, 7,200 yard golf course designed by award-winning architect Arthur Hills, allows golfers to enjoy the natural beauty of this championship course.
A Texas ranch-style resort wouldn’t be complete without animals. Visit the Lost Pines corral for daily meet and greets. Guests can interact with longhorns, miniature ponies, miniature donkeys, goats, alpacas and pigs. Families can enjoy nightly movies on the outdoor movie screen, and make s’mores fireside at one of the many
ADVENTUROUS GETAWAY OR A SERENE ESCAPE
“Resort experiences include horseback riding, skeet shooting, archery, guided ATV tours, fishing, kayaking and more.”
fire-pits around the resort. Scheduled kids activities are available day and evening throughout your stay. The expansive grounds allows guests to spend time exploring the activities on the property without feeling crowded by other guests.
The resort offers a variety of dining experiences for the culinary enthusiast including six different on-site restaurants, each offering unique bites and beverages. Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Stories, where all food is sourced from local purveyors such as local wagyu beef and fresh garden greens grown at the on-site garden. They also offer an expansive selection of wines, scotch, and mixed drinks. For a unique dining experience, visit the renowned, exclusive 10-seat omakase, Sushi By Scratch, with Chef Philip Frankland Lee. This menufree establishment boasts a private and unexpected experience that is sure to please. Advanced reservations are required and encouraged as dining spots fill up quickly. For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the other four on-site restaurants including Maverick’s Roadhouse, the buffet style dining at Heartwood House, or the light bites enjoyed poolside at Old Buck’s Place. Eat alfresco at Maude’s Bar and Terrace with appetizers, small plates and cocktails. Listen to live music on the terrace and take in the night sky or cool off with a refreshing beverage after a day of activities at this charming spot. Located at the center of the resort, indoor and outdoor seating is thoughtfully arranged to invite guests to relax, unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.
After a day of making memories, retreat to the newly remodeled and spacious rooms and suites. The views are breathtaking, and all rooms offer elevated amenities that invite relaxation. The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is the perfect vacation destination to recharge regardless of what stage of life you are in. For more information visit LostPinesResortandSpa.com
“Christy made the effort to understand both of my kids’ individual learning styles with an open mind and heart. She adapted every lesson to their needs while simultaneously pushing them to stretch their limits and grow. We have done several other swim classes and have never made the kind of progress we did with Coach Christy. She has a true talent for teaching.”
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS JULY 2024
JULY 2ND
Mahjong Open Play
BLUE WILLOW CAFE | 1:00 PM
Blue Willow is hosting open play Mahjong dates this summer during the months of July and August! July dates and times are: the 2nd and 16th from 1-4 pm, and the 11th from 6-9 pm. Day play is free, night play is $15 and includes wine and snacks! Call to reserve your spot at: (903) 868-2100
JULY 3RD
The Beach Boys
PECAN GROVE WEST PARK | 7:00 PM
Wednesday July 3rd at Pecan Grove West Park hear THE BEACH BOYS and see fireworks as part of Sherman's Hot Summer Nights concert series. On July 11th, Sherman continues to host their 30th annual FREE concert series every Thursday evening on the Municipal Lawn. Other July artists include: Five for Fighting, Wheatus, and AB Quintanilla III & The Kumbia All Starz. Learn more at Facebook.com/HotSummerNights
JULY 4TH
City Of Denison
37th Annual Fireworks Celebration
MUNSON STADIUM | 5:00 PM
Join the City of Denison for the 37th Annual Fireworks Celebration on July 4th. This is a FREE event open to the public. Come early to visit vendors at Forest Park and bring the whole family for this family-friendly event! Fireworks will begin at dusk. For more information, visit DiscoverDenison.com
An elegant wine bar located in the historic Katy Depot, Downtown Denison
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
JULY 12TH
Music On Main
FOREST PARK, DENISON | 7:30 PM
Downtown Denison welcomes you to enjoy FREE music every Friday at 7:30 pm in Forest Park (300 W. Crawford.) Pack your snacks, order local delivery, or pickup your favorite meal on the way - and don't forget your own blankets and lawn chairs! July artists include: McBride & The Ride, Ally Venable, and Uncle Lucius. Facebook.com/DowntownDenisonTx
JULY 13TH
Corn Hole Tournament
HERITAGE PARK, DENISON | 10:00 AM
Grab your teammate and brace yourself for the unforgettable Downtown Denison Corn Hole Tournament! All ages are welcome, and we will play by the official Corn Hole Tournament rules. Treat yourself to a delectable spread from our diverse range of eateries, bars, and candy stores and shop our various Historical Downtown retail stores. Spots are limited, register at: DowntownDenisonInc.com
JULY 29TH
Sherman Community Players Summer Benefit Dinner & Show
HONEY MCGHEE PLAYHOUSE, SHERMAN | 7:00 PM
Sherman Community Players is celebrating 75 years of local theater! Enjoy dinner and a show while supporting the arts. Showing at this summer's benefit is Ken Ludwig's "A Comedy of Tenors" and included in your ticket is a threecourse dinner. Call to reserve your seat today; we guarantee smiles all around! (903) 892-8818, SCPTheater.com
