




LIFESTYLE LETTER
LIFESTYLE LETTER
“Home is the nicest word there is” – Laura Ingalls Wilder Home. From our newest residents to the natives of Texoma, this community nestled within the joys of Lake Texoma and the charm of our growing cities is considered "home, sweet home".
For me, home means a combination of things. It’s a town, a physical dwelling space, the people and items within, and the sentiment those combine to create. The great Maya Angelou said it best, “The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.”
Home is a feeling of familiarity and warmth you can’t get anywhere else. The ease of knowing you’re with those who love you for you. I love the feeling of coming home in the afternoon. I change into sweats, put on my slippers, and sit down to finish the workday at the table in my kitchen while listening to my daughter's stories from her day. That is home for me.
This month we explore what makes home special to our readers. That includes beautiful aesthetics and design, local sports & entertainment we share, advice from home professionals, and most importantly – the people that turn a house into a home. We hope that this look into their lives and work will bring people in this community closer together.
Readers tell us they keep and display our magazine beyond the month of publication. It thrills us to know that our work is used as coffee table art, encouraging conversation between families and guests inside homes in our community. We feel so proud to create a resource valued by our neighbors, and we strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thank you, Texoma, for letting us be a part of your home.
As always, thank you for reading and we'll see you around town!
BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @TEXOMACITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTOR
Roger Ireland | Roger.Ireland@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Danielle Poche' | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Lucas Ridley
STAFF WRITER
Jennifer Haveman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christine Clark, Sharla Davenport, Roger Ireland, Mike Zapata
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Courtney Mitchell, Joshua Russell, Mike Zapata
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
In Celina, Texas, there is a place where the charm of history meets the sophistication of modern luxury. It’s a haven where golf isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of opulence. And guess what? We’ve got an exclusive offer just for you to become one of our very first Founding Members, unlocking a world of unique perks and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. As a Founding Member, you’ll etch your name in the walls of 1876 Country Club. Picture this: you’ll be the first to grace our meticulously crafted course, a masterpiece reserved for those who have a taste for the extraordinary. But there’s more to 1876 than the greens.
1: Speaker, Eric Ross, at MLK March in Sherman with Kaydence Ross, student artist who won poster contest 2: Child & Family Guidance Center of Texoma introduces 2025 Board Officers 3: Lake Texoma and Pottsboro community see snow in January 4: The Sherman Chamber presents to The Milieu Wine Bar the Small Business of the Year award 5: Freedom Boat Club Texoma connects with community leaders at the Denison Economic Development Summit 6: The Denison Development Alliance celebrates Tony Kaai’s 25th Anniversary by honoring his achievements and leadership 7: Sherman residents enjoy snow days in Texas
Pet Wants Texoma is a locally owned pet boutique that offers small batch, nutrient-dense food and a variety of unique and beneficial treats and chews to keep your furry family members happy, healthy, and entertained! Pet Wants food is prepared multiple times a year using fresh, natural ingredients to ensure that it is packed with nutrition. Check them out at local Texoma events and online. Store coming soon! PetWantsTexoma.com
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Interior HomeStore Is A Design Fixture In Downtown Sherman
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINE CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY
OF INTERIOR HOMESTORE
Carol and her husband, John Davis, have been a fixture of the Sherman community for more than 40 years as the owners and operators of the Interior HomeStore. Their 5,500-square-foot store in downtown Sherman boasts a mix of clothing, jewelry, a lighting showroom, remodeling services, design services, furnishings, gifts, and home and holiday décor.
Carol Davis has a well-established sense of design and style. She has worked in interior design since 1978 and opened her first store in 1981. While still in school, she worked part-time at a furniture store, becoming familiar with products, working in clients' homes, selling retail, and delivering superb customer service. This experience gave her the confidence to pursue her career further by opening her interior design retail store many years later. Carol shares, “I love meeting new people, sharing my passion and talent for design, and helping clients feel confident in their home decisions.”
The Interior HomeStore is a full-scale design store that assists customers at any project stage, whether it's just starting out or somewhere in between. “Our talented design team enjoys working on any size project we are hired to assist with. Many people believe they cannot afford to hire a designer, but without a clear vision of how they want their home to look and feel, they may spend thousands of dollars and countless hours without achieving the desired results they hoped for. We have found that many of our customers may fear buying items that won’t fit in their space, don’t function as intended, or don’t look right, leaving them feeling paralyzed”, says Carol.
Carol and her team bring valuable experience to every project, including knowledge of suppliers and finishes and exceptional customer service that offers clients a sense of comfort, much like a warm embrace. Their goal is to discover what clients love and need, ensuring that the space feels like a place they have always called home. This approach helps create an environment that genuinely suits their clients' lifestyles.
Carol recounts one of her latest projects. It "started with a homeowner visiting our store and asking us to help her finish furnishing and decorating her newly built home. Our priority with any new project is to get to know the client personally and their desired style so we scheduled an in-home design appointment to meet in her home to view her existing wall colors and any furnishings she had previously purchased. We do
this to understand better the remaining items needed to complete the project. After developing a design plan and reviewing it with the homeowner, we presented her with ideas for furniture and finishes. She approved our suggestions, allowing us to select the appropriate pieces to enhance her beautiful new home. After several months of work—including ordering, shipping, and installation—the results have been remarkable, and the homeowner is delighted."
Being asked to provide design services for a client on multiple projects is one of the highest forms of flattery. Whether the client is redecorating a room in their home, constructing a new primary residence, or decorating a lake cabin, working on multiple projects allows us to refine our selections. This way, we can hit just the right note the first time.
The Interior HomeStore's diverse range of products and services makes it a must-stop destination whenever you are in the area. Whether you're looking to add something special to your tablescape, need a new dress or jewelry to complement it for a night out, or are searching for the perfect gift for a friend, this store has an ever-changing selection of items. Carol shares, “Our goal is to create comfortable living spaces that are both elegant and practical. Our designers are inspired by the client’s needs, lifestyle, and desires for their home combined with the latest trends in design.”
We pride ourselves on quality workmanship, reliability, excellent service, and a talented and dedicated staff with the same goals.
InteriorHomeStore.com
702 N Travis Street, Sherman
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE A CAREER IN REAL ESTATE?
While I don’t have a personal career path, I know dirt. My family has either farmed it, hauled it, or moved it. So, I thought I might as well sell it. Real estate has provided a sense of accomplishment, whether it’s assisting clients in finding their dream homes, navigating investment opportunities, or facilitating commercial growth. I enjoy problem-solving, negotiation, and working directly with people.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO AS THE TEXOMA AREA GROWS?
The region’s growth can bring many positive changes, such as recreational development and improved infrastructure in our small towns. Economic development can increase our future real estate opportunities and bring new companies to our area.
WHAT ARE SOME HABITS THAT HAVE LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?
“WITH AN ABUNDANCE MINDSET, I BELIEVE YOU CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING.”
PHOTOGRAPHY
My habits are continuous learning, listening to clients’ needs, flexibility, and problem-solving. These habits help me engage with people and provide the most useful, supportive interactions possible.
TexasHomesAndLand.com | 214-908-5468
WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
My desire to achieve a win/win. I will exhaust all avenues to meet my client’s goals. I’ve never seen myself as a salesperson but rather as a problem solver dedicated to creating solutions.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
We have a broad reach with agents serving North Texas, Southern Oklahoma, and Central Texas. I have a deep passion for homes on Lake Texoma. Whether it’s helping someone find their perfect lake home or guiding a seller through the process of maximizing their investment, I still get excited about every opportunity to work with lake properties—even after 24 years in real estate.
WHAT ARE SOME HABITS THAT HAVE LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Planning has been a cornerstone of my success—if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. I also strongly believe in the power of mindset. With an abundance mindset, I believe you can achieve anything.
| 903.624.0688
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS? ANY SPECIAL NICHE?
The key is to find something you like and get good at it. I love being creative and I love design. One of my passions is interior home design and staging as it is a great outlet for my creativity. I enjoy the opportunity to get a listing ready for sale. Setting it up for sale is part of my creative process and increases the chances of a quick sale.
HOW ARE YOU INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
I have been a member of Pathway Church for 15 years. I spent 6 years as a board member of the Women’s Crisis Center and have been a past president of Business Network International. I enjoy giving back to the community, volunteering, and donating to schools and other organizations.
WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
We have won Best of Texoma for 11 consecutive years, so we hope to continue providing excellent service to our clients and customers. I also look forward to visiting my granddaughter in Lubbock and maybe even creating a specific design team to further my design passions.
DHudnall@paragonrealtors.com | 903-815-4068
WHAT DO YOU THINK SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER AGENTS?
I am a licensed real estate professional in both Texas and Oklahoma and currently serve as a Broker, sponsoring approximately 35 agents. I have always been passionate about understanding contracts and the legal aspects of real estate. Known for being honest, trustworthy, dependable, and possessing strong integrity, I strive to uphold the highest standards in every aspect of my work.
It’s an exciting time to live in the Texoma area and to be involved in real estate. It’s not just about the professional opportunities but also about actively participating in planning and shaping the region’s growth. I’m eager to witness new developments take shape and see builders establish themselves in the area. I’m committed to ensuring that expanding the capacity of local non-profits remains a priority for community leaders as the area grows.
In the past, I primarily worked with buyers and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Over the past year, I’ve focused more on listings, which has become my main area of expertise. Additionally, I’ve been increasingly involved in commercial real estate and aim to expand further in that direction.
Brad@easyliferealty.com | 903.820.6001
Real estate allows me to combine my love of helping people with my deep knowledge of the area I’ve called home for so long. I find joy in guiding clients through one of the most significant decisions of their lives, and I wanted a career where I could make a lasting impact by helping others achieve their homeownership dreams. The industry’s flexibility also allows me to stay connected with my community and balance my personal and professional life.
I pride myself on honesty, integrity, and strong communication, which are the cornerstones of my business. My clients know they can count on me to respond quickly and keep them informed throughout the process. I strive to make buying or selling a home seamless, enjoyable, and exciting. My local knowledge, coupled with my friendly and easygoing personality, helps me build strong relationships and earn the trust of my clients.
As the Texoma area grows, I’m excited to see new opportunities for homeowners, businesses, and the community. Growth brings vibrancy and diversity, and I look forward to helping clients navigate the changing market. It’s rewarding to be part of a community that values progress while maintaining its charm, and I’m eager to support clients in finding homes where they can thrive in this evolving area.
Jill@JillSellsDFW.com | 214.395.5886
LOCAL HOME SERVICE PROVIDERS YOU CAN TRUST
We are here for the long run and want to be a good neighbor – someone that our customers can trust to take care of them after the sale. We get a lot of repeat business because our customers know and trust us.
As springtime approaches, Texoma residents prepare for the upcoming storm season. Most experienced Texans have realized the only certainty of Texas weather is uncertainty. All over the state, you can hear weather conversations where people say, “If you don’t like the weather in Texas, just wait a few minutes, and it will change.” Springtime weather really takes that old adage to heart. One day it can be sunny, and the next day could be stormy or even worse. Inclement weather can appear anytime, but it especially likes to show its unwelcome face during the spring storm season. Several local businesses always stay ready to respond to the damage caused by storms and some even help Texoma residents be prepared for when the storms do arrive.
Jeff Williams of JW Land and Water says that prevention is sometimes the best path. “We offer our services proactively. We are here to help our Texoma customers be prepared for whatever weather does appear. We build our landscaping and irrigation systems to the highest standards, which can reduce storm damage. Our expertise and use of the best quality products available can help your property weather any storms. Using native plants that are suited to our area can also reduce damage to landscaped areas. Our native plants are strong and grow deep roots to withstand the strong winds and rains that can cause lots of damage to poorly designed landscapes.” In addition to irrigation and landscaping, JW Land and Water installs water catchment systems and offers property maintenance for residential and commercial customers. According to Mr. Williams, “Preserve, enhance and sustain are what we promote. Having sustainability helps weather our storms. It really is true what they say. An ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure.”
Ron and Lisa Sherwinski with Duck Fence & Deck share similar sentiments regarding storm season. Ron states, “I’ve been doing this for twenty-plus years, and I have seen a lot of bad weather. When March, April, and May come along, our team does everything we can to be ready. Building a quality fence can really go a long way to helping your property survive the bad weather that visits us. We build a lot of fences during storm season and one reason that fences take a beating from the weather is that they were built with poor-quality materials in the first place. The best course of action is to build something that will last you a long time. We usually recommend a cedar fence. With good care and maintenance, a cedar fence can last twenty to thirty years. Customers must decide whether to shop price per foot or longevity per foot. Often after storms, Texoma is bombarded with out-of-towners who offer cheap fence replacement with inferior materials and poor workmanship. I was born at Perrin Air Base Hospital, so you know I have been here for a while! We are here for the long run and want to be a good neighbor – someone that our customers can trust to take care of them after the sale. We get a lot of repeat business because our customers know and trust us.” Duck Fence also installs decks, remote gates, pergolas, and even bridges.
Cody and Kim Slagle of Get Roofed are another family-operated and owned business with local ties. Cody Slagle says being born and raised here helps him know what to expect from the upcoming storm season. As a business that installs residential and commercial roofs, he has seen the damage spring storms can do to a community. “Storm season causes a lot of issues for our customers. Sixty percent of our business is generated by storm-related issues, so we
do our best to be prepared. Our company specializes in residential and commercial roofing, new construction, roof replacement, and storm and hail damage." Slagle also warns Texoma residents about the large amount of out-of-town roofers that will swarm the area after the storms. “We want to be your hometown roofer. We are certified members of the National Roofing Contractors Association, Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, and GAF Master Elite Contractors, and we have certifications with several other prestigious roofing-related products. Always do research on any contractors you are considering hiring. Get several quotes, and don’t let any contractor rush you into making a decision you might regret.
And above all, don’t ever give money upfront. If any company is asking you for money upfront, then they are not reputable. If you have questions or need a second opinion, please contact us. We work hard to bring honesty to the table and respect from the community is a huge deal to us. We are your neighbors. We want to earn your trust and your business.” In addition to roofing, Get Roofed offers rain gutter replacement and repair, window replacement, painting, and even remodeling.
JW Land and Water | TX-JW.com Duck Fence & Deck | DuckFence.com Get Roofed | GetRoofedUSA.com
ARTICLE BY SHARLA DAVENPORT
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TEXOMA FC
“IT
Are you ready for professional soccer just a few minutes away? That’s right! You do not have to drive to Dallas or Houston. Texoma FC will start its regular season on Saturday, March 22, 2025. The club will “kick off” its first game via the United States League (USL) One
Texas Mockingbird and the Oklahoma Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher. Both birds use their predatory instincts to “protect” the team.
Simon Keizer, Texoma FC CEO, says it is the club’s “goal” to sell out every one of the sixteen regular season games
in the heart of Texoma at the historic Bearcat Stadium in Sherman, Texas, challenging One Knoxville SC. Texoma FC will take on each team in the USL One league a minimum of two times during the regular season and will have at least one home and away match against all club teams. Matches of note include the home opener on March 22, 2025, against One Knox SC, as well as a match against the current USL League One Champions, Union Omaha, on May 17, 2025. Additionally, the season will include the club’s debut in the USL Jägermeister Cup, an interleague tournament uniting clubs from the USL Championship and League One.
The franchise chose to call itself Texoma FC to symbolize the club’s location and fan base, which span northern Texas and southern Oklahoma. The team logo’s red color, like the infamous river that divides our states, continued this theme. The logo also included the two states' birds: the
this season. “Come join the Texoma FC Family and be a part of history for our inaugural USL League One Season!” Keizer says. “It is a great family-friendly event for the people of Texoma. We know how big soccer is for communities like Celina, Gunter, Denison, Sherman, and Oklahoma. We hope people will come and support their local team this season. With sixteen home games, many opportunities exist to cheer on Texoma FC. It’s the first professional team for the region. We are so excited to build a loyal fanbase for Texoma,” he says.
Season tickets are on sale now. Support your local and only Texoma professional soccer team, and become the first season ticket holder. Season ticket holders receive other benefits, including an exclusive Texoma FC Season Ticket Holder Scarf, an invitation to attend a “Meet the Team” event, priority ticket access for soccer playoffs and other stadium events, plus many other perks to be announced.
“IT’S
Tickets are available on the team’s website, TexomaFC.com, starting at $16 per ticket. The website also posts the team’s schedule and a link to purchase official club merchandise with the team logo. News about player announcements, notable player signings, and other club information is also available on the website and social media accounts.
Texoma FC named Adrian Forbes its Head Coach for the Inaugural Season. Forbes, who currently serves as the club’s Sporting Director, will be joined by Ben Clarvis, who will serve as Assistant Coach and Adam Lewis, who will serve as Goalkeeper Coach.
Texoma FC will play over thirty games this season, beginning this month. The games will be nationally televised on CBS Sports and ESPN+, highlighting our region. Come support Texoma FC during this momentous opening season, and get your tickets now! #WeAreTexomaFC #VamosTexoma
TexomaFC.com
Loft living in the Texoma region offers a unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and a vibrant lifestyle, making it an attractive choice for many individuals and families. Both Sherman and Denison provide an ideal setting for those seeking the open, versatile spaces that lofts are known for, paired with the conveniences of small-town living. In both communities, many loft spaces are located in revitalized historic buildings, offering a sense of character and history that traditional apartments often lack. Exposed brick walls, large windows, and open floor plans create a contemporary yet timeless ambiance that appeals to many residents.
Denison, known for its rich history and thriving arts scene, has embraced the loft living trend. The downtown area is home to beautifully restored buildings that house loft apartments. These properties often feature unique architectural details that reflect the town's heritage while incorporating modern conveniences such as updated kitchens, energy-efficient systems, and high-speed internet. Local realtor and loft resident Rhonda Borgne adds, “All these buildings have a story. It’s such a great part of living in the downtown community. Your neighbors are also local businesses.”
Living in a Denison loft places residents within walking distance of numerous attractions. From art galleries and boutiques to coffee shops and live music venues, downtown Denison offers a vibrant cultural experience. Local wineries, breweries, and restaurants add to the charm, making the town a desirable destination for those seeking a mix of culture and leisure. As Hanna Gudgel, Denison loft dweller, adds, “I love the accessibility of living in a loft downtown. I am walking distance from my life. It’s quiet and tranquil, and I enjoy coming home every day.”
“It’s a pedestrian lifestyle ideal for young professionals or early empty nesters. With all that’s coming to the area, it’s exciting to be a part of that evolution.”
Sherman, a growing city with a strong sense of community, offers appealing loft living options as well. Its downtown area has seen a resurgence in recent years, with efforts to revitalize historic buildings and create modern residential spaces. As local realtor Brad Rhodes notes, “It’s a pedestrian lifestyle and is ideal for young professionals or early empty nesters. With all that’s coming to the area, it’s exciting to be a part of that evolution.” Downtown’s proximity to major highways makes it a convenient location for commuters who work in nearby cities like McKinney or Dallas.
David Downtain of D2 Built and Urban Sherman, responsible for many different revitalization efforts in the area, says, “At the same time the city is revamping its incentive programs, we now have twelve new loft units under development, doubling downtown capacity. This will drive additional entertainment, dining, and retail into the area.” In addition to these traditional amenities, downtown has an ever-growing list of events, such as Stroll on the Square, the Sherman Showdown, and Trick or Treat on Travis.
One key advantage of loft living in Denison and Sherman is affordability. Compared to larger cities, these towns offer more budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality, safety, or amenities. The cost of living is relatively low, making loft living an accessible choice for individuals at various stages of life.
As the region continues to grow, the demand for loft living will rise. The blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and a welcoming community makes these towns an ideal choice for those looking to experience the best of North Texas living. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic energy of Denison or the urban atmosphere of Sherman, loft living offers a unique and rewarding way to call this area home.
For more info on Loft Living:
Brad Rhodes | 903.820.6001
Rhonda Borgne | 405.833.2338
D2 Built | 940.289.0200
Urban Sherman | 940.289.0222
- Laura Hildebrand
D2 Built - Where Innovation Meets Craftsmanship!
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.
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.
www.UrbanSherman.com 940.289.0222
MARCH 8TH Chili Cook-Off
HIGHPORT MARINA | 12:00 PM
Join friends and family for a chili cookoff where you can showcase your culinary skills and compete for the title of Chili Champ! Not a chef? No problem! Come taste the delicious creations for just $2.00 per person. Bring your appetite and your competitive spirit! See you there! Highport.com
MARCH 22ND
LANDON WINERY DENISON | 2:00 PM
Become a winemaker for a day! Spend the afternoon with owner Bob Landon and an experienced Landon Winemaker participating in a hands-on lesson in the art of blending wine. You'll work as a team to create your own unique blend! Judges will choose the Best Blend, and guests will take home a small bottle of their own wine. LandonWinery.com
MARCH 22ND
FOREST PARK, DENISON | 8:00 AM
The City of Denison is excited to host the second annual Big Event, a community-wide day of service that originated at Texas A&M University. Residents and non-profit businesses in the City of Denison who might need a little assistance with outdoor projects (painting fences, yard clean up, gardening, repairs, etc.) will be able to apply to participate. DenisonTX.gov
MARCH 22ND
Texoma FC League
Home Opener
BEARCAT STADIUM, SHERMAN
Join us at the inaugural home game for Texoma FC at the historic Bearcat Stadium! Game is March 22nd so don't miss out on the excitement! Texoma FC will be playing One Knoxville SC. Grab your tickets and be a part of history right here in Texoma! TexomaFC.com
MARCH 22ND
Sherman Celtic Festival
PECAN GROVE PARK-WEST, SHERMAN | 9:00 AM
The Sherman Celtic Festival is held March 22nd, 9AM-6PM ,and March 23rd, 10AM-5PM at Pecan Grove Park. Press your kilts and join us for the Festival and Highland Games! The Festival promoted by Visit Sherman brings community together to celebrate our shared Celtic heritage though traditional music, dance and crafts. Portion of proceeds benefits the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Tickets at ShermanCelticFest.com
MARCH 29TH
KATY DEPOT | 7:00 PM
Don your flapper dress, feathered headband, and dapper suit for an evening filled with glitz, glamour, and a hint of mischief. Step back in time for what will be the most talked-about fundraising event of the season! Enjoy the jazz sounds of the Texas Gypsies and bid in the silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Greater Texoma Health Clinic. DenisonLive.com