West Fort Worth, TX April 2024

LIFE + CULTURE ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE

WELLNESS

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN MEXICO

FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES

INVEST IN RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY LIKE A PROFESSIONAL

Less Pain, More Gain.

With the help of a customized physical therapy treatment plan, you can relieve your chronic pain or nagging injury and start living your best life again.

Make the smart choice and start your journey to being pain-free!

“The staff and management are so compassionate and make us feel so good. From Gwen, the owner, to Jennifer, the receptionist, I feel like they really care about the client and our individual needs.”

– Kay L.

“The SMART Institute has helped me tremendously with my back, knee and neuropathy conditions. I’m already able to better understand and control the pain.”

– Michael

817-377-3422

3600 West 7th

“The therapists here are absolutely amazing! My back pain has eased substantially and my range of motion is better than it’s been in the past two years.”

– Amanda B.

The Complete Backyard creates meticulously designed custom pools, outdoor living spaces, outdoor kitchens, fire features, decks, cabanas, and much more! We have over 20 years of experience helping the residents of the DFW Metroplex design and build the projects they desire, and we’re always happy to work with new clients! Get in touch with us today to receive your free consultation with a design consultant from our team of experts!

Investment

Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools, and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning.

On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact not only on ourselves but on the people closest to us. Where we invest our time, we invest our lives.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community, and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances, and with those we love.

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Hunter Martinez | hunter.martinez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Tori Martinez | tori.martinez@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Hannah Barricks | hannah.barricks@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Hannah Barricks, Angela Broockerd, Gabby Cullen, Angi Hockett, Sean O'Keefe

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Paige Alexis Photography, Sean O'Keefe

to love for years to come.

FULL-SERVICE DESIGN STUDIO | CUSTOM ART

Contact Courtney for a Consultation

mcclymondinteriors.com | 512.694.6056

V cmcclymond_interiors

Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth a light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big mome

When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to sa

When you are making memories filled with warmth and light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothin left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Y story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth and lig

When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When you story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments.

When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to sa

When you are making memories filled with warmth and light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothin left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Y story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth and lig

family portraits

high school seniors

headshots

When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When you story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to sa

artist profiles

branding visuals

When you are making memories filled with warmth and light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothin left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Y story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth and lig

fine art

When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When you story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments.

LIGHT & FRESH or MOODY styles

When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to sa

When you are making memories filled with warmth and light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothin left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Y story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth and lig

www.macka-photography.com

brooke@macka-photo.com

When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When you story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to sa When you are making memories filled with warmth and light. When there are layers to your story. When there is nothin left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When your story is empowering. When you need more than words. Y story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. When the photographs are authentically powerful. When your story feels like a dream. When your business has more to say. When you are making memories filled with warmth and lig

When there are layers to your story. When there is nothing left to say but much more to see. Because you matter. When you story is empowering. When you need more than words. Your story matters.When the little moments are the big moments. ll l ll

business monthly

The Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival celebrates 37 years.

The largest arts festival in Texas and the No.3-ranked fine arts festival in the U.S, kicked off another season April 18-21. The event celebrates 37 years in April, is free to attend, and features over 200 jury-selected visual artists, live music on two stages, local cuisine, a maker's zone/children’s area, craft beer, wine tastings, across 18 square blocks throughout downtown.

Annual Perkins Orthodontics Education Scholarship

Perkins Orthodontics is proud to partner with West Fort Worth Lifestyle to provide an educational scholarship to juniors and seniors in Fort Worth. The purpose of this scholarship is to support past and present patients of Dr. Perkins and Dr. Spradley who are planning to further their education. Dr. Perkins says “Giving back to the wonderful community of Fort Worth is near and dear to our hearts, as we would not be where we are today without the support of others.” For more details email eperkinsortho@gmail.com.

BTL Bus Tour coming to 817 Surgical Arts

The BTL Bus Tour is coming to Fort Worth at 817 Surgical Arts on Saturday, April 13th from 1-3 pm! Come experience EMFACE (a state-of-the-art, non-invasive facelift) or one of their other amazing devices for free! Brunch, special pricing, and more! Follow us on social media for more information (IG: @817surgicalarts) or call us at 817-290-9900!

2023 Scholarship Winner

This is one of my constant “go to” DIY projects. It’s fast, it’s easy and it looks oh so professional. I love displaying photos, but I don’t necessarily love a lot of photo frames. These canvases create a crisp, clean look... All in about 30 minutes! Let’s get started.

DIY Photo To Canvas In A Snap

ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STEP 1:

First things first, grab your supplies.

• Photo on photo paper

• 1 ½ inch thick wrapped canvas

• Mod Podge in Matte finish

• Black spray paint in Satin finish

• Clear spray paint in Satin finish

• 4 inch or 6 inch foam paint roller

• Small paint tray

Place your photo on the clean, dry canvas to make sure it fits correctly. Trim if necessary.

STEP 2:

Spray paint the canvas sides and a little of the top with the black spray paint. It is VERY important to let this dry completely.

STEP 3:

Using your foam roller, roll Mod Podge over the entire top of the canvas. Center your photo on top of the wet Mod Podge. Smooth the photo with your hands starting in the middle and pushing out toward the edges

STEP 4:

Roll a thin even layer of Mod Podge over your photo. This is a little scary “painting” over your photo, but I promise it will dry clear. Once it is covered with a thin layer start at one side and roll straight rows from side to side, in the same direction, as to avoid roller lines once it dries. If you see small bubbles in the wet Mod Podge, it is too thick. Thin it out by taking an almost dry roller over the photo to lift some of the Mod Podge. Repeat until the bubbles are gone. Let this dry completely.

STEP 5:

Spray the top and sides of the entire canvas and photo with satin spray paint. Dry…Hang….High Five. Congratulations on your new Photo Canvas!

This same technique can be used on 4x4 tiles of your choice to create custom coasters. You will add a bit of Peel and Stick Cork or felt to the back of the tile so the coaster doesn’t scratch. Cheers!

Celebrate the season at these Texas springtime destinations

Warm Weather and Wildflowers

Rawls

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BETZHOLD

Steve

The smell of fresh lavender in a bouquet. The sweetness of a perfectly, deep red strawberry. The warmth of the sun beaming down on my face. A walking path painted with wildflowers. The condensation of a cool glass of whitewine outside laughing alongside my closest friends and family. These are the senses that came to mind as I pictured my ideal spring day. Though your perfect picture of the season may be different, whatever it may be, odds are you can experience that blissful day at any one of these Texas towns that celebrate the season in style.

MOUNTAINS AND WINE

Fresh fruit, endless floral fields, refreshing beverages, and unique shops and restaurants are only just the beginning of why Fredericksburg is arguably the ultimate springtime destination in Texas. Spend a weekend in the heart of the Hill Country surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and partake in any of the numerous attractions the quaint German settlement has to offer and you will quickly agree. Explore the boutiques, breweries, and eateries downtown, but plan time to embark on the Wine and

Wildflower Journey to sample award-winning wines at participating wineries while relaxing on a patio overlooking hundreds of grapevine rows or fields of blooming wildflowers. For a more hands on trip, hike the pink-granite Mountain, Enchanted Rock or pick your own strawberries at Marburger Orchard nearby.

THE LARGEST FLORAL FESTIVAL IN THE SOUTHWEST

Though the busy streets of Dallas scattered with Skyscrapers and pavement may not be the conventional image that comes to mind when the word Spring is uttered, the city is home to “the largest floral festival in the Southwest” and has plenty of springtime inspiration to offer. Immerse yourself in the thousands of budding tulips, lilacs, daffodils,

Ashley Andrews

Texas Hill Country Wineries

FRESH FRUIT, EN DLESS FLORAL FIELDS, REFRESHING BEVERAGES AND UNIQUE SH O PS AND RESTAURANTS AREONLYJUST THE

iris’ and countless flora the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden displays at its annual festival.  Bring a blanket and snag a spot on the rolling hill that overlooks White Rock Lake to watch sailboats soar through the water while enjoying a packed meal or food from any of the restaurants around. On your way down, stop by the Dallas Farmers Market a few miles south to curate the perfect picnic spread to satisfy your cravings after walking around the stunningly-manicured 66-acre garden.

ARTS IN THE OPEN AIR

When you think of Fort Worth, it may be easy to get caught up in the elements that coin its nickname ‘Cowtown’ like the stockyards, Billy Bob’s, the rodeo, and so on. Yet, it is easy to overlook the

BEGINNING...

growing arts scene as the city is also home to notable museums, and Main Street Fort Worth Arts Festival aims to celebrate and display the impressive results of the skill. Admire hundreds of masterpieces on all different mediums contrasted with the red bricks of downtown while listening to a wide range of musicians perform throughout the day. Enjoy the warm spring weather at this outdoor festival and indulge in the numerous culinary arts offered as well.

BLUEBONNET COUNTRY

While you could visit the flower mound that Flower Mound, Texas derives its name from for your spring flower fix, just one hour south sits the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas.” Though not a highly trafficked area most of the year, Ennis is home to over 40 miles of walking trails, covered in wildflowers and open to the public the entire month of April. Check the website before for updates on the best spots to hike and plan your trip for the third weekend of the month for a festival celebrating the picturesque landscape. Stroll through the meadows and head downtown to engage with the various art and crafts vendors. Shop around and end the day sharing savory food and refreshing drinks with friends and family accompanied by live music.

As a Texan, there are only a few times a year that a beverage, meal, or activity can be enjoyed outside without melting under the blistering sun. It is important to take advantage of the ideal weather and celebrate the springtime every chance you get. So don’t walk - Run to these nearby festivals meant to celebrate the season.

Gary Ray

LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC WINE?

ARTICLE BY HANNAH BARRICKS

FORT WORTH RANCHERS BAND TOGETHER TO FIGHT CANCER.

ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE

Founded in 2011, The Black Dog Foundation sometimes struggles to establish its identity in Fort Worth.

Ashley regrettably passed away after winning many battles against her cancer, and Wallace continues the Black

“IF I DON’T HAVE AN ANSWER, I’LL FIND ONE. BLACK DOG RECENTLY PROVIDED TRAVEL GRANTS FOR OUR PATIENTS, WHICH IS A HUGE FINANCIAL HELP.”

“At one point we called it, ‘The Black Dog Shootout,’” laughs Lance Thompson, one of the organization’s founding committee members. He’s seated in Summer Moon Coffee in South Main with a fawn-colored cowboy hat on. “Someone called the cops on us that year.”

Unfortunate marketing aside, the group is named after Cash, the first black labrador puppy auctioned on behalf of the organization during its first gala, skeet shoot, and dinner at Chula Vista Ranch.

Founders Ben Wallace, Brian Griggs, Harvey Miller, and Thompson’s fatherin-law, Johnny George, raised more than $25 thousand to help Ashley Dike Baganz, wife of the group’s friend, Jason Baganz, fight leukemia.

Dog Foundation in her memory, with Ashley’s parents remaining thankful for the organization’s support during an incredibly difficult and confusing time.

“The weekly costs mounted quickly,” explains David Dike, Ashley’s father, during a 2021 impact video the group made for the gala that year. “Ashley’s insurance did not cover her co-pays, but Black Dog immediately swooped in and took the financial pressure off her and the family. It’s a horrible thing to be fighting cancer and also be worrying about daily stresses.”

Today, the group has raised over $1.5 million, with proceeds staying local, benefiting the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Leukemia Texas, Wings of Hope, Hope Kids, Wish with Wings, and Cook Children’s Hospital.

“Ashley continues to help others through the work of her friends,” finishes Dike.

Since Ashley’s death, the founding members of the group have found themselves in many personal battles with cancer. Linda Wallace, the mother of founder Ben Wallace, was diagnosed with multi-myeloma, an incurable cancer, several years after Ashley.

“Something they don’t tell you is that your whole family gets cancer,” says Linda in the 2021 video. “It affects everyone.”

To ease the burden on families, Black Dog has invested in LLS patient resource coordinators like Thompson’s wife, Kelsey, who meets with patients and guides them through the cancer treatment process, whichever stage they are in. Care may include helping patients understand diagnostic information and find answers or resources.

“If I don’t have an answer, I’ll find one,” assures Kelsey. “Black Dog recently provided travel grants for our patients, which is a huge financial help.”

In 2019, Kelsey would personally guide Brian Griggs and his wife, Cindy, through his cancer diagnosis and eventual death.

“It’s something we never, ever thought we’d go through,” said a tearful Cindy. “But cancer is a part of my story now.”

With so many personal ties to cancer, it remains incredibly important to the board of Black Dog to keep donation dollars in Fort Worth, helping Fort Worthians.

“We are a nonprofit organization that not only keeps the money in the community, but we mostly give it all away,” says Thompson earnestly after a sip of coffee. “We have been learning about the nonprofit world over the last few years, and

“WE CAN SAY, ‘YOUR MONEY’S STAYING HERE, IT’S GOING TO BENEFIT THE PEOPLE THAT WE KNOW, AND YOU’RE HANDING IT TO PEOPLE YOU TRUST.’”

that’s not normal. Usually, it’s 20 or 30% given back to the community.

“We can say, ‘Your money’s staying here, it’s going to benefit the people that we know, and you’re handing it to people you trust.’”

This year, the event is on April 26, and Wallace is getting another dog lined up: around 8 weeks old and purebred.

The group outgrew the Chula Vista Ranch, swelling to nearly 700 people last year at River Ranch in the Stockyards. But they still look for volunteers and donations every year, seeking to grow their sponsorship base and reach new friends around Cowtown who might not yet know their story.

“Whenever I start getting weary, I don’t have to go very far to see the impact we have on the community,” says Thompson. “It keeps your motivation going and helps you continue to do it.”

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.

simple

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

spicy thai coconut curry

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise, then sliced into crescents

• 1 red pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into slices

• 2 cups carrots, sliced

• 2 cups mushrooms, quartered

• 1 large boneless, skinless, pasture raised chicken breast, cut into cubes (omit to make vegan)

• 2 cans coconut cream

• 1 container curry paste or 3 tablespoons dried curry powder

• 2-4 cups bone broth, chicken stock, or vegetable stock

• 1 Tbsp. fresh ginger, minced

• 1 Tbsp. fresh garlic, minced

• 4 limes, 2 juiced and 2 quartered

• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2-4 Tbsp. avocado, olive, or coconut oil

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Season the chicken with ¼ of the curry powder/paste, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Sear on medium heat in 1 tablespoon desired oil. Once browned on each side, remove from pan, and set aside.

2. Add 1 tablespoon oil and sauté the onion on medium heat until softened and translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes

3. Add the garlic, ginger, broccoli, zucchini, red pepper, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté on medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the chicken back in, along with the coconut cream, remaining curry powder/ paste, and broth.

5. Bring to boil, reduce to low heat, and simmer for 10-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

6. Remove from heat and finish with lime juice.

Serve with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or add extra broth to create a healing soup. Garnish with sliced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.

THE

DIESSLIN GROUP

IS ALL ABOUT LONGTERM CLIENT SUCCESS

It’s never too early to invest in your future.

ARTICLE BY GABBY CULLEN

What comes to mind when you hear the term financial planning? Do you think of the stock market, mutual funds, or a high-yield savings account? That’s a good start, but there’s so much more to long-term financial success. We spoke with Olivia Partin of The Diesslin Group, a financial planning firm that provides unbiased, fee-only advisory and wealth management services for individuals, businesses, estates, trusts, and foundations, about what financial planning means and why it’s so important.

It’s no secret life seemingly goes by in a flash. We’re just getting started, and in the blink of an eye, we’re looking at college tuition for the kids, retirement funds, re-financing or paying

off mortgages, taking dream vacations, and probably wondering what happened to the last 20 years. “Time is a precious commodity. Most clients are juggling a career and kids or have retired and want to enjoy their retirement. Engaging a Financial Planning team to help them create a plan for their family helps to take one less thing off their plate and helps align their finances with their vision of the future. Also, we often find the non-financial spouse finds comfort knowing we’re available to help guide them in the event something happens to their spouse,” says Partin.

And it’s not just investments you need to consider. “When we peel back the layers and show them we can help with tax planning,

“TIME IS A PRECIOUS COMMODITY. MOST CLIENTS ARE JUGGLING A CAREER AND KIDS OR HAVE RETIRED AND WANT TO ENJOY THEIR RETIREMENT.”

SUCCESS

making sure they have enough insurance coverage, or reviewing their estate plan, clients are pleasantly surprised they can get advice from our team instead of having multiple people they need to reach out to,” says Partin.

Partin also mentions that while The Diesslin Group considers all aspects of financial planning important, estate documents are essential. “Having a solid and well-put-together estate plan based on their desires and assets is a major key to financial planning,” she says.

Dealing with our financial livelihoods can be daunting when unfamiliar with the process. But it’s necessary to do so, and according to Partin, the earlier someone can start, the better. “Once someone gets started in their career, a financial planner can create a plan they can follow for years and update when big life events happen. A financial plan is not a one-and-done; it changes when the client changes. They may have been single when they first had a financial plan created, and now, they’re getting married. A financial planner can incorporate that life-changing event into their plan and how that will look from a tax standpoint or any changes needed in their estate. With time, a financial plan evolves the same way they do.”

If this seems daunting, don’t worry because you aren’t alone. A first step might be chatting with family members, trusted mentors, or friends and asking for a solid recommendation. Don’t feel comfortable talking about finances with others? Partin recommends searching for fee-only financial planners nearby. “An initial consultation is usually free; you can interview multiple planners and see which best fits your needs.”

“AN INITIAL CONSULTATION IS USUALLY FREE; YOU CAN INTERVIEW MULTIPLE PLANNERS AND SEE WHICH BEST FITS YOUR NEEDS.”

Residential interior design with styles ranging from traditional to soft contemporary. With influences from French, Italian and English design Kay mixes antiques with newly constructed furnishings effortlessly, complementing them with beautiful fabrics and accessories.

kaygenuadesigns.com

5132 Camp Bowie Blvd Fort Worth, Texas 76107 •

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RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

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ARTICLE BY HANNAH BARRICKS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAIGE ALEXIS

So, you're thinking of investing in property?

In today's often unpredictable real-estate market, single-family homes remain a safe option for investors because of persisting demand, an attraction for long-term residents, and retained or appreciated value over time.

Ryan Mahan, the owner of Real Property Management Trailhead in Fort Worth, suggests investors consider price, location, rate-of-return, and management companies before selecting a property to skip the drama and maximize the acquisition.

"Just because a property is a bargain doesn’t always mean it is a good deal," says Mahan. "Market value is just one of the features to consider when choosing an investment property."

Below, he shares the main components to consider when selecting an investment property.

PRICE

"For your first step in identifying a stable investment property, find a single-family residence offered below market value," continues Mahan. "However, discovering why the home is bargain-priced is just as important as the price tag. Homes needing minor repairs or cosmetic updates might seem like a great deal and often are – just be sure that the house does not have extensive damage or require major repairs.

"Buying a fixer-upper might seem like a good idea, but anything spent making the property habitable must be factored into your rental margin. Look for properties that are in good shape but are underpriced, perhaps because the sellers are in a hurry or have incorrectly estimated the value of their home."

LOCATION

"It may be a cliché, but the location may determine whether you profit from your investment," says Mahan. "Check out the neighborhood carefully. Consider the nearby rentals and compare rental agreements, including price and market saturation.

"Areas with low crime rates, good schools, high employment, access to public transportation

and shopping opportunities, or other appealing features are ideal. Areas with vacant rentals and low rent can indicate potential trouble. The ideal location will offer single-family homes with relatively low market values but comparatively high rents."

RATE OF RETURN

"Beyond the price of the home and the location, you must also crunch the numbers," explains Mahan. "A good investment offers a solid rate of return. In real estate, this rate, or capitalization rate, can vary by area but usually ranges between 4% and 10%. To find the capitalization rate for a potential investment property, calculate your net operating income (rents less expenses) and divide it by the home sale price. Be sure to include property taxes obtained from the county assessor, association fees, and any extra insurance required if the home is in an area prone to natural disasters.

"On average, it’s best to keep expenses around 50% of the gross rent, also called 'the 50% rule.' If the property you are considering doesn’t offer a good return, shop for another property. The residential market is rich with homes to choose from."

MANAGEMENT

"To ensure the continued profitability of your investment property, you need a trustworthy, professional property management company that understands your investment goals," concludes Mahan. "At Real Property Management, we have the expertise to reduce your costs and keep your profits high. Our tool, Wealth Optimizer, helps our customers understand the potential returns and expenses of a property they already own or are considering. With proper planning, they can anticipate costs associated with vacancies and capital improvements and keep track of their investment’s appreciation over time.

With our competitive pricing and guarantees, you can be confident that your real estate investment is in the right hands."

RYLAND BYRD

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL

Recent Sports Highlights

Ryland has been a varsity baseball pitcher for All Saints Episcopal since his Freshman year. He has been the starting Friday night pitcher the last two seasons and has twice been named TAPPS 6A District 1 Honorable Mention pitcher. He has played travel baseball with the Dulins Dodgers and the Dallas Patriots for the past three summers where he has competed in the top amateur tournaments in the nation and was ranked a top 500 player in Texas by Perfect Game.

Personal Highlights

In addition to baseball, Ryland is a 4.0 student at All Saints and is the lead singer and rhythm guitarist in a classic rock band - SMOKED HONEY - with four other local students. He is a self-trained musician who learned to play guitar watching YouTube videos over the past year during downtime on baseball road trips.

Maintaining Balance with Sports and School

All Saints has provided Ryland with great teachers and staff that have taught him the importance of time management. Additionally, playing baseball his entire life has helped him develop discipline and leadership. Together, these traits have created the foundation that has allowed Ryland to not only succeed in the classroom, but also on the baseball field.

Plans for the Future

Ryland is currently focused on getting in the best possible shape to compete on the baseball field his Senior year and will evaluate future baseball opportunities at the end of the season while also pursuing the dream of attending the University of Texas or TCU to major in Business/Economics.

Presented By

817-505-1530

amnat.com/fort-worth-branch

1500 West 7th Street, Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Planting Spring Flowers

Helpful tips for planting spring flowers

Sun-Loving Plants:

Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.

Plumbago

Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.

Hibiscus

The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.

Bougainvillea

These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.

Purslane

This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!

Butterfly Weed

This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.

ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS

Shade-Loving Plants:

Lantana

This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.

Greggs Blue Mist

This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.

Pentas

This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.

Vinca/Periwinkle

This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.

Sages

There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.

Turk’s Cap

This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.

Impatiens

These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.

Caladiums

With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.

The real heart of the city.

The heart of Fort Worth. Ask a dozen people where to find it and you’ll get a dozen answers. But, of course, Trinity Terrace retirement living might just be the correct answer. Not only is it near the action of downtown and the cultural district, but it also has the nicest, most incredible group of residents you could ever meet. Come see for yourself. Call now to schedule a personal tour.

1600 Texas Street • Fort Worth • 682.267.6962 • retirement.tours/tt

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

“GET YOUR HANDS ON A PLANT-BASED COOKBOOK, PICK A DOZEN RECIPES, AND COOK THOSE WITH YOUR FAMILY ON SUNDAYS.”

For over twenty years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world where people are both living longer as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years has now also evolved into proactively creating eco-systems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

If you haven’t subscribed to watching “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” streaming on Netflix, do yourself a favor and soak up the well-documented views into how Ikaria, Greece, Loma Linda, California, Sardinia, Italy, Okinawa, Japan, and Nicoya, Costa Rica exemplify the basis behind the Blue Zones truth and have since inspired Dan and his team to further extrapolate how we can manufacture healthy blue zone lifestyles in virtually any city and within our homes by way of intentional adaptation.

Most of us are well aware of the “American way of life” we reside in, that being one of convenience in all shapes and forms. We excel in offering the most fast food options in any country. We rank at the top of the most cars per household. We embrace a sedentary at-home lifestyle. And, for many of us, it stems from our childhood to no-fault of our own; comfort foods and Friday night pizza deliveries, complacent recliners and cushy car commutes. In short, however, now more than ever we categorically live in a country where processed foods and ultra-convenience, unfortunately, translate to life-threatening health diseases and a lack of organic joy.

What is the best news of all? All of these characteristics are wildly easy to overcome with effortless, yet conscious pivots to making better decisions with our time, our food, and our focus. Ask yourself: Are you driving or walking? Are you connecting socially? Set your sights on avoiding the majority of processed foods and start eating a largely whole-food and plant-based diet that will (statistically) give you another 10-12 years on your life.

In place of your toaster, keep a fruit bowl on the counter. Create a low-level junk food drawer. Stop buying processed meat, potato chips, sweetened snacks like cookies and candies, and worst of all, sugar-sweet beverages, and start buying more beans, nuts, grains, and tea.

“Am I going to tell you to never have these? No, people deserve to treat themselves. But you’ll do yourself an enormous favor if you just don’t bring those into your home. If you want to go out for those treats, go ahead,” Dan says.

“Simply just don’t bring them home, and you’ll cut out 70-80% of consumption right there.”

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Who do you hang out with? Happiness is contagious. “The Blue Zone approach is to go through your contact base and think of some friends whose recreation is pickleball, biking, or gardening. Who will care about you on a bad day and have a meaningful conversation? Identify one or two friends who are vegan or vegetarian and show you how and where to eat whole foods. Actively invite them out for lunch, and bring them into your social circle: this will have a bigger, long-term impact on your behavior than any new diet or exercise, and it costs you zero. Plus, there is a ton of data that shows it works, and it’s long-term.”

“We are marketed the idea that if we change our behavior by exercising more, taking the right supplements, trying this longevity or that anti-aging hack, that we will lose weight and get healthy, yet it never works for the longterm,” says Dan. The Blue Zones approach is not trying to change your behaviors, it is asking you to change your surroundings…your eco-system.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

And, we would be remiss not to attend to the travelers at heart who would love to indulge in a luxurious resort paired with the facets of an actual Blue Zones destination. Dan highly recommends seeking out Silvestre in Nosara, Costa Rica where the experience offers wellness programming, fully-equipped kitchens, and outdoor activities that will fuel your inspiration for a healthier life.

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

Follow @DanBuettner and @BlueZones for full insights and visit BlueZones.com to shop exclusive products.

APRIL 2024

APRIL 1ST

Dinosaurs Around the World

Fort Worth Botanic Gardens

8:00 AM

Tour the gardens until May 30 in a reptilian world created in collaboration with a world-renowned dinosaur paleontologist, Dr. Gregory M. Erickson. The outdoor exhibit will feature advanced animatronic dinosaurs from every continent, a multi-layered narrative, and cutting-edge research for visitors to explore.

APRIL 1ST

Carry the Load Community Memorial Event

Amon G. Carter Museum | 10:30 AM A relay team is making its way to Dallas, Texas, for a police and firefighter memorial. Participants will meet at the Carter and begin a 3.6 mile walk to the Fort Worth Police and Firefighters Memorial at 2247 W. 7th Street.

APRIL 1ST

Stone’s Throw Farm Co.

Farmers Market

Neutral Ground Brewing | 4:00 PM

The Stone's Throw Farm Co. is a Texas grocery and moving farmer's market. The store's market pops up on the first of every month and combines the best of the past with a modern twist.

APRIL 1ST

The Big Good: The Big Night 2024

Tannehill's Tavern and Music Hall

6:00 PM

Gary Patterson and Leon Bridges host the largest annual fundraising event in Fort Worth for a third year. The Big Night promises another year of excitement and energy to raise funds for The Tarrant To & Through Partnership, United Community Centers & UpSpire. The evening will feature an exciting live auction and performance from Leon Bridges.

APRIL 4TH

Matt Mason

The Post at River East | 8:00 PM

The winner of CMT's Next Superstar in 2011 from Indiana, Matt Mason is playing a live, standing-room-only show.

APRIL 5TH

Kameron Marlowe

Billy Bob's Texas | 10:00 PM

The season 15 contestant of NBC's The Voice is crooning county classics following Niles City on the Honky Tonk Stage.

CONTINUED >

Luxury Property Design & Construction

APRIL 5TH

La Bohème

Bass Performance Hall | 6:00 PM

La Bohème is a timeless story of young love, set in the heart of 19th-century Paris. The opera follows the lives of a group of Bohemian artists, including the poet Rodolfo and his seamstress lover Mimi, as they navigate poverty, friendship, and romance.

APRIL 6TH

Travis Tritt

Billy Bob's Texas | 10:00 PM

The Country Music Legend and Grammy winner visit Fort Worth during his solo acoustic tour.

APRIL 8TH

Eclipse in the Garden

The Garden Center | 10:00 AM

The expansive North and South Vistas at The Garden Center offer unobstructed views of the sky, making for the perfect backdrop for observing the eclipse. Time of Totality: 1:41 p.m.

APRIL 8TH

Micro Mania

Lil' Texas Motor Speedway | 2:00 PM

Everything is smaller on the 1/5thmile Lil’ Texas Motor Speedway. The event features some of the most skilled drivers in the world contending in heart-stopping action and intense battles.

APRIL 20TH

Taco and Tequila Crawl

Fort Worth Bars | 1:00 PM

Participants will enjoy eating tacos, sipping margaritas, taking tequila shots, and dancing to live music, while following a map to five participating bars. Each location features a signature taco.

APRIL 26TH

Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra: Star Wars' The Empire Strikes Back

Bass Performance Hall | 7:30 PM

Watch the iconic sci-fi movie while the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra performs the score live.

HERE, LIFE MEANS MORE.

(817) 767-0091 | mrcstevensonoaks.org

At MRC Stevenson Oaks, our philosophy is that no matter how old we are or what challenges we live with, life is about continuing to grow. We fight back on thieves like loneliness, helplessness and boredom. We resolve to make every day one that confirms the seven domains of well-being through identity, growth, autonomy, security, connectedness, meaning and joy.

“Moving to Stevenson Oaks, or any community center, was something I never considered until my husband died. I watched this being built and I thought, that is where I want to go. I’m still in my same neighborhood and I’m happy.”

- STEVENSON OAKS RESIDENT, BARBARA WIEGAND (pictured right) with STEVENSON OAKS RESIDENT, SUSAN BENNETT (pictured left)

| 6251 Stevenson Oaks Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76123

We place a great emphasis on treating patients like family, and we deliver the same quality of treatment that we would give to any of our own family members.

LIFESTYLE ORTHODONTIST | PATIENT FOCUSED | BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIST (Inbrace, Invisalign, Traditional Braces)

4763 Barwick Drive, Fort Worth (817) 294-5021

orthobyperkins.com

Individualized

THE SECRET IS OUT...

Dr. Khan is facilitating Stem Cell Therapy right here in your backyard! No need to travel across the world to receive the benefits. All procedures are executed in-house. CONDITIONS

Arthritis