Best of Denton County 2019

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Best of Denton County 2019

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Thank You for your Continued Support

For the fourth straight year we were given a

up to date products and technologies. We want YOU to have the look YOU want not the one someone thinks you great gift by our customers of being voted The should have. We provide an atmosphere that makes each Best Med Spa, Laser Hair Removal and Cellulite and every client feel like family. Unlike many other Med Reduction for Best of Denton County. In addition Spas we stay within the aesthetic field and do not venture into areas better left up to you and your personal doctor or to those categories, we were voted the Best specialist. Our staff is highly trained in every procedure in our of Denton County in a new full range of non-invasive offerings and category, Cosmetic Injections. all of our providers are all Medically Certified. Our cosmetic injectors Best Med Spa, These achievements and your loyal are all nurses utilizing the latest and Best Cellulite Removal, support have led to the need for us medically safe techniques. All of Best Cosmetic Injections to expand our staff to include more & Best Laser Hair Removal our staff is closely overseen by our providers, an additional Medical Medical Directors, Dr. Jesse Smith MD Director, Nurse Practitioner, larger FACS, Renowned Reconstructive and space and New Procedures. For Cosmetic Plastic Surgeon and Dr. Tom Morrell DO, General this reason, we relocated to our new larger space located Medicine for over 40 years. in Flower Mound’s Shops at Lakeside. Thank you for your We offer no obligation consultations and you can be continued support. assured that our staff will be honest in their assessment and Our philosophy is to take a conservative approach to bring that we will never do any procedure that puts you at risk or out our client’s own natural outer beauty utilizing the most for monetary gain.

Flower Mound’s Premier Med Spa for the Sophisticated Women and Distinguished Man “The look YOU want through a conservative approach”

The Med Spa of Flower Mound (972) 874-0008 • www.MedSpaFM.com 2601 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 180 • Flower Mound, TX 75022 4 |

Beauty Services

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Best of Denton County 2019

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Services Offered: Cosmetic Injections • Botox/Dysport • Full Line of Fillers • Kybella CoolSculpting • AquaGold • Hydrafacial MD • The SaltFacial Cool IPL/Photofacial • Laser Hair Removal • RF Skin Resurfacing/Scar Removal • PRFM Medical Grade Chemical Peels • Dermaplaning • Skin Tightening - All FDA Cleared

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Best of Denton County 2019

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Beauty Services

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Congratulations f r o m J u d g e A n dy S Since 2004, businesses across Denton County

have vied to be among the top finalists for the Best of Denton County.

It is an honor to be a finalist or a winner.

Launched by the Murray Media Group, this annual competition honors three finalists in more than 540 categories. Just do the math.

The competition highlights more than 1,600 businesses, drawing the attention of many across North Texas.

We are fortunate that so much effort goes into recognizing businesses across the county.

Top three finalists are celebrated and winners recognized in separate events. Then everyone receives recognition in a tabletop magazine and online, followed by a year of bragging rights.

Residents from Denton County as well as neighboring counties use this annual guide to make decisions about with whom to conduct business.

It is that big of a deal. The excitement just before the big reveal of the latest round of finalists was palpable. So many flocked to Murray Media’s website this year to see the finalist list that it briefly crashed.

Denton County is fortunate to have such a close knit and vibrant business community. Our business owners care deeply about the services they provide and it shows.

Their commitment to outstanding customer service and to the county community as a whole deserves recognition.

I would like to offer my congratulations to each of the finalists. Thank you for striving to be among the best in your field. We are fortunate that you chose Denton County to establish and grow your businesses.

As one of the fastest growing counties in Texas, Denton County is drawing the best and that is something to shout from the rooftops.

Where else does celebrating businesses for being among the best of the best get so many fired up?

Only in Denton County!

Denton County Judge Andy Eads Courthouse on the Square 110 W. Hickory St., 2nd Floor Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-2820

Photo Booth @

Winner’s Party

by Picture This!

At this year’s Best of Denton County Winner’s Party hosted on September 27th, 2019 at Bistecca, guests enjoyed a fun photo booth courtesy of Picture This! Photography.

(817) 300-7469 • www.PictureThisDFW.com

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Best of Denton County 2019

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

to our readers

A

As we all know, Denton County is one of the fastest growing areas in the country.

With this kind of explosive growth, we, of course, see more and more businesses opening their doors to service the demand.

What we may not be aware of, however, is the countless hours and the highs and lows that each business owner experiences in their journey to be an entrepreneur. Owning a business is not for the faint of heart, and success does not happen overnight.

In today’s world of social media, it is easy to go “review” a bad experience, but very few take the time to pat business owners on the back for a job well done. As you use this winner’s directory for the next 12 months, I encourage you to take the time to congratulate these businesses and frequent them with confidence.

For nearly 21 years, we have showcased local businesses that demonstrate a combination of outstanding customer service, commitment to our community, professionalism, as well as having some traditional southern charm. Unlike most “BEST OF” publications, the Best of Denton County is not a readers’ choice award where the publication itself picks its top three advertisers and then allows readers to vote for their favorites. OUR award allows residents from the county to nominate their favorite local businesses by voting online over the course of one month. After the nomination period is over, the three businesses with the most nominations for each category are then placed on the ballot for voting. From there, the community votes for their favorite. It is our unique selection process – and the competition that has been spurred from having so many great businesses to choose from in our vibrant area – that has made this award prestigious, coveted, and respected in our county.

As you shop for goods and services in our county or are faced with a buying decision, we encourage you to look for and shop with www.BestofDentonCounty.com

those businesses where the Best of Denton County logo is prominently displayed.

Consumers can use this as a guide for excellence and trust. We encourage you to keep this directory handy and use it throughout the year. If you don’t have the magazine available, you may also visit our website at www.BestofDentonCounty.com to find the local business you need the most when faced with a purchasing decision.

We are honored to present this unique magazine as a testament to all the hard work these business owners put in each and every day. As a business owner who is highlighted in the pages of this magazine, you should take pride in being a part of it. As an aspiring business owner who one day wants to grace the pages of this magazine, this should be used as an example of how we operate here in Denton County. Lastly, as a consumer, you can feel confident that these business owners will take care of your needs. Not some of the time, or most of the time – ALL of the time.

In closing, I’d like to share with you one of my favorite quotes, as there could not be a better way to describe why you should support small local business.

“When you buy from a family owned business, you are not helping a CEO buy a third vacation home. You are helping a little girl get dance lessons, a little boy gets his team jersey, a mom or dad put food on the table, a family pays a mortgage or a student pay for college.”

Editorial PUBLISHER Murray Media Group EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Kelly & Scott Murray V.P. OF OPERATIONS Jana Melton EDITORS Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo Betty Hilliard Susan Neuhalfen

Art ART DIRECTOR Lizeth Wallace GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Alyson Modene Caroline Brock PHOTOGRAPHERS Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography Nick Allen Photography WEB DEVELOPER Murray Media Group

Advertising

info@bestofdentoncounty.com

Special Thanks Your Candid Memories Photography Shoal Creek Tavern • Bistecca • Fresco’s Mexicana PJ’s Party Supplies • Nick Allen Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography Picture This! - PictureThisDFW.com Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Murray Media Group Publication Readers Image Center

Publisher: Murray Media Group • Presidents: Kelly & Scott Murray 3513 Yucca Drive, Suite 200 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 972.899.3637 • www.BestOfDentonCounty.com Best of Denton County Magazine is published once a year for Denton County residents, students and businesses. All nominations were voted on BestofDentonCounty.com. Winners were chosen by the residents of Denton County. The editor, publisher, owner and staff were not responsible for choosing winners nor did they participate in voting.

Over 540 business categories were available and residents nominated or voted on no more than one business per category and required a valid email address and name. The businesses and institutions with the most votes were named Best of Denton County 2019 by Murray Media Group Publications and an additional award for Student's Choice was crowned from the students of Denton County. Additional rules and regulations can be viewed at BestofDentonCounty.com.

All Rights Reserved ©2019. This magazine may not be reproduced in whole, in part, or by any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or recording, without permission from the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for care and return of unsolicited materials. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for advertisements printed or the views and opinions of the advertisements.

Certain graphic images attained via www.123rf.com.

Sincerely, Kelly & Scott Murray

www.Murray-Media.com Best of Denton County 2019

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Beauty Services

On The Cover

Amber Michelle Salon: A Special Thanks . . . 78 Cloud 9 : Go Big or Go Home . . . . . . . . . 76 David Ryan Salon: Your Hair is Our Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 Flower Mound Vein Center: Denton County’s Best Vein Clinic . . . . . . . 80 Salon Sage: Where Passion Combines with Friendship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 The Lash Lounge: Superior Lashes . . . . . . . 81 The Med Spa of Flower Mound: Thank You for Your Continued Support

For the fourth straight year we were given a great gift by our customers of being voted The Best Med Spa, Laser Hair Removal and Cellulite Reduction for Best of Denton County.

DFW Oral Surgeons: Dental Implant Solutions That Keep You Smiling Dr. John Shillingburg has been a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon for so long now that he could probably perform even the most complicated procedures with his eyes closed and one arm tied behind his back.

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Best of Denton County Winner’s Directory . . . 114 We are proud to announce the winners of Best of Denton County 2019! Nominations were made by the residents of Denton County and took place June 12 - July 10. The top 3 nominees then went on to the final voting that took place July 24 - August 21. All nominations and voting were held at www.BestOfDentonCounty.com. Every winner is listed in the print and online directory for free.

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Business & Professional Mixed Media Creations: Visual Storyteller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Community & Non-Profit

Automotive Services Briscoe Alignment & Tire: Everyone is Someone at Briscoe Alignment & Tire . . . . . . . . . . 41 Classic of Denton: Thank You for Voting Us 3 Years in a Row

Classic of Denton, which was already the one-stop comprehensive shop for all Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Mazda enthusiasts, won three Best of Denton County awards this year in the Auto Service, New Car, and Pre-Owned categories.

TCAP: Compassionate Solutions

Sam Pack Five Star Ford Lewisville: Five Star Lewisville for a Reason

Sam Pack knew exactly what he was getting into when he purchased his first Ford dealership more than 30 years ago. The car dealership business was booming and, much like today, was so highly competitive that standing out among the crowd seemed like a daunting task.

Each year, 6-8 million cats and dogs enter animal shelters throughout the United States. Due to low adoption rates, most of these animals never find a forever home.

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Education 36 8 |

Best of Denton County 2019

Center Fold

KD College Prep: College Counseling & Test Prep Programs That Meets Your Child’s Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Entertainment Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater: A Grand Home For The Arts . . . . . . . . . . 91

Financial & Real Estate

Northside Air Conditioning: Need Superior A/C Service? Northside Air Conditioning. The Right Job, with Excellence, Every Time . . . . . . . . 49 Weed Man: We Care for Your Lawn

By the time native-Texans Marty Hoover and Tommy Baker left Xerox Corporation after more than 20 years of loyal service each, they had the customer service and problem-solving game down to a science.

Brand Properties Group: Guiding You Through the Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Chrissy Mallouf Realtor: Helping You Find Your Dream Home . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Fairway Independent Mortgage Company Tom Tevis: Your Homebuying Caddy . . . . . 100 Jay Marks Real Estate: Mr. Make It Happen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Matt Tobben with State Farm: Proactive When it Comes to Protecting You . . . . . . . 106 Mike Martin with HealthMarkets: You Have Questions I Have Answers . . . . . 105 Noble Classic Homes: Building The Dream Your Family Calls Home . . . . . . . . 102 PointBank: Get By With A Little Help from Your REAL Friends at PointBank

Introducing you to the bank that Denton County has known for over 135 years: PointBank – A People Bank, and a REAL community supporter.

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Legal Services Balmos Law Firm: Planning & Protection from a Community-Minded Attorney . . . . . 112 Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin: Quality over Quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Minor & Jester, P.C.: Committed to Community . . . . . . . . . . 108

Medical & Health Services Connections Wellness Group: Changing Lives Everyday . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Country Lakes Family Dental: Dental Care for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . 20

96 Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc.: Lending with Passion . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Home Services 1-2-Tree: Your Go-To Choice for Tree Care and Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 ABC Home & Commercial Services: Serving the Community in More Ways than One . . . . . . 48 Bowen Pools: Your Backyard Pool Oasis Awaits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Photo Pages

Top 3 Best Mixer: Picture This! . . . . 107 Top 3 Best Mixer: Picture This! . . . . 126 Winner Party: Picture This! . . . . . . . 06 Winner Party: Picture This! . . . . . . 128

Dental Care 4 Kids: Healthy & Happy Smiles . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Gronberg Orthodontics: Experience The Difference . . . . . . . . . . . 33

guide

Restaurant & Food Services See what Denton County has to offer in our Restaurant & Food Services Category. Brought to you by Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford Lewisville

Bistecca - An Italian Steakhouse, Fresco’s Mexicana, Hoochie’s Denton Marty B’s, Swirl Bakery, Verf’s & What’s On Tap, . . . . Center Fold Costa Vida: Flavor and Fun at the Coast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Shopping & Retail Ehrhart’s Jewelers: 45 Years of Personal Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Nature’s Mercantile + CBD Store: A Holistic Journey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Specialty Services Dark Age Tattoo: We Love to Tattoo . . . . . 72 Edit This: Taking a Leap of Faith

Steve Gamel loves to tell a good story. But anyone who knows him will agree he’s usually too busy writing heartwarming tales about local residents and the good deeds of small-business owners to take the time to talk about himself in print.

Heaven at Home Senior Care: Providing Quality Care at a Moment’s Notice . . . . . . . . . . 24 Kids First Pediatrics: For the Love of Children! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

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Lantana Pediatrics: Compassion & Care . . . . 21 Pediatric Dental World: Passionate About Dental Care . . . . . . . . . 16 Phipps Family Medicine: Cheering on Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 ROOT Periodontal and Implant Centers: We Save Teeth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Titensor Dental: Giving You a Smile You Deserve with Full Service Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Brawley Farms: A Little Piece of Country Heaven

When Bob Brawley moved to Southern California 15 years ago to further his horseback riding career, he had no idea he’d wind up meeting his future wife.

Pet Services Animal Medical Center of Highland Village: Unrivaled Care & Compassion for Your Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Hollywood Feed: A Different Breed . . . . . . 62

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Dining

82 Jesse James Fit: Making Fit Happen . . . . . 86 Best of Denton County 2019

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Keep You

Dental Implant Solutions That

Smiling D

by Steve Gamel

Dr. John Shillingburg has been a boardcertified oral and maxillofacial surgeon for so long now that he could probably perform even the most complicated procedures with his eyes closed and one arm tied behind his back.

“I take a lot of pride in helping people feel better about themselves.�

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Best of Denton County 2019

Best Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Center DFW Oral Surgeons (972) 539-1491 4421 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.DFWOralSurgeons.com

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Don’t worry; he wouldn’t actually try a wild

he’s a huge proponent of dental implants.

you guess that it’d be him, too?

can have their teeth restored — not just

stunt like that. But if anyone could, wouldn’t While modern dentistry is providing

patients who crave a more confident

smile with more options than ever, there’s only one true outpatient surgery center capable of diagnosing and treating any

mouth and jaw condition with ease. That

office is none other than Dr. Shillingburg’s DFW Oral Surgeons in Flower Mound.

Patients with even one or two missing teeth replaced — with the surgical insertion of a

dental implant. A dental implant is a cultural shift from more intrusive, painful, and oldschool options such as partial dentures or

a dental bridge. Essentially, it recreates the

connection between the jawbone and tooth

while restoring the natural function and feel of a tooth.

Simply put: they do it all, and they do it

Previous options such as partials and

as wisdom teeth extraction to sinus

because of the forces that are generated

right. This includes procedures as simple lifts, dental implants, and

bridges damage adjacent teeth longterm

reconstructive surgery.

With that type of experience under one roof, why would you go anywhere else?

surgery, dental anesthesiology, and holds membership with the American Dental Association and is a Diplomate of both the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

He has also spared no expense in surrounding himself with top-of-the-line technology that makes his job seamless.

One newer piece of technology his office now uses regularly is the X-Guide, a revolutionary 3D turn-by-turn navigation system that improves the precision and accuracy of implant position, angle, and depth. Dr. Shillingburg can watch the drill as it is going into the bone and more easily steer clear of adjacent nerves, blood vessels, and teeth.

“If there is anything that really elevates us as a practice, it’s that device,” Dr. Shillingburg said.

“The biggest misconception

people have is that they think they can go to a dental office that touts itself as a one-

stop-shop and get all their needs taken care of,” said

Dr. Shillingburg. He cited an

article in the Journal of the American Dental Association that said dental implants placed in a specialty office have a higher success rate than those placed elsewhere. “It’s

better to have things like that managed in

a surgery office where sterility is similar to an operating room. We’re equipped for everything.”

He added, “When we have people come in with really difficult cases, I’m the one

who manages those. It’s a big part of my

practice, and I take a lot of pride in helping people feel better about themselves.”

If you haven’t guessed by now with some of the things Dr. Shillingburg has said,

on that tooth and the gums. When this

happens, you turn a one-tooth problem into a three-tooth problem.

“I tell patients that all the time; implants really are the preferred way now,” Dr.

Shillingburg said. “Instead of creating adverse forces on the adjacent teeth,

dental implants maintain bone and reinforce adjacent teeth so that they last longer.”

Remember when we joked earlier that Dr. Shillingburg could likely do many

procedures with his eyes closed? While not entirely true, he’s as good as they come.

He is trained and credentialed in

dentoalveolar surgery, facial cosmetic

surgery, implant surgery, orthognathic surgery, facial reconstructive oral

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

DFW Oral Surgeons also has a 3Shape Intraoral Scanner that is 100% digital and has quickly replaced the traditional and often cumbersome way of taking full-mouth impressions. Impressions can be completed in a matter of minutes. For pain, they also offer a new option called Exparel, which provides long-lasting pain relief while reducing the need to use more dangerous opioids by 45%.

Many of us take our oral and dental health for granted, and when we are suddenly faced with severe problems, the consequences can be overwhelming. Having a doctor like John Shillingburg in your corner is a lifesaver.

“As an oral surgeon, my job is to manage complications,” Dr. Shillingburg said. “Maybe someone has come in, and they have a dental implant that failed.

I enjoy fixing those and ensuring they enjoy their smile.”

Best of Denton County 2019

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Medical & Health Services

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Changing Lives everyday

B

by Brooke Ezzo

Before opening his own private practice, Awstin Gregg spent years expanding his clinical experience. He has many titles; professor, social worker, CEO, therapist, and now owner, with multiple degrees attached to his name.

While these accreditations are important, his desire was to create one space where people would gain overall healing.

From cold and flu to depression and anxiety, his mission to promote positive change with life improving solutions has raised the bar in the healthcare community.

There has been a stigma placed on mental health and Awstin is

passionate about removing it, so

he opened his own practice to help his community achieve the gift of

healing. Connections Wellness Group opened its main campus in January

of this year and since then has added three more campuses, a primary care clinic, and a pain management clinic.

From Left to Right: Chris Bennett, Michele Menzie, Megan Albertson, Dr. David Tucker, Michelle Dean, and Awstin Gregg 12 |

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Best of Denton County 2019

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Awstin’s team at the Connections Wellness Group (CWG) provides a wide range of specialties and dynamic capabilities to serve every individual who searches for meaningful care. They give unyielding support as you grow, heal, and achieve your goals.

“I am passionate about unapologetically raising the bar for mental health,“ Awstin said. “I believe there is so much happening currently to remove the stigma, and I want us to be at the front leading the way.”

Awstin grew up in Wylie, Texas and moved to Denton for college. After earning three Master’s Degrees, running two hospitals, and practicing social work he decided to plant his roots in Denton where Connections Wellness Group proudly stands. “Denton is my home,” Awstin said. A home that has welcomed him and his passionate team by voting them Best Psychiatry Practice, Best Children and Adolescent Therapist, and Best Children and Adolescent Practice in Denton County.

Along with the community honors, Connections Wellness Group is nationally accredited for quality, has received a state award for being an Achieving Teaching Facility, has two Social Worker of the Year awards, and they have received multiple invitations to speak as experts on mental health.

“To treat a person you’ll often find benefit in coordinating care with a full team, such as; a social worker, a therapist, a psychiatrist, a dietician, etc.,” Awstin explains. “A lot of times these team members aren’t under the same roof or even in the same city. The fragmented pieces between providers caused a lot of critical elements to get lost in the cracks.”

This critical missing piece in healthcare kept him up at night. It led Awstin and his partners to create a space where the community is offered an array of services, now underneath one roof, with the same team, with the same goal. This practice is more efficient, more collaborative, and timely, streamlining the care they provide.

“We can connect [clients] to healing they’ve longed for their entire life, but didn’t know how to achieve,”

“I enjoy progressing the conversation about mental health,” Awstin said. “I teach at two universities, and I love guiding the upcoming professionals to be truly equipped to join in the cause and impact the gift of healing.”

Connections Wellness Group is known for having the best of the best. Their team spans the mental healthcare spectrum by having the highest accredited professionals whose services include; child and family therapists, psychiatry, an intensive outpatient program, medication management, EMDR, and play therapy, to name a few. On his team, Awstin is partnered with three incredible women, along with other staff, who share his passion and has helped guide CWG to where it is today.

“We have been able to create a model of what patient care is supposed to look like,” said Megan Albertson, Vice President of www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Nursing. “[We] meet our patients where they are at, provide quality care without cutting corners, and connect people back to what matters most to them.”

“We started Connections Wellness Group because we each saw, from a different perspective, how mental health care wasn’t meeting the needs of the people who really needed it,” says Michelle Dean, Managing Partner and winner of Denton County’s Best Child and Adolescent Therapist.

“Unlike any private practice before, CWG has been able to collaborate psychiatrists, primary care doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers together so they can collectively work together to provide complete mental and physical healthcare.”

Connections Wellness Group understands the links between mental health and physical health. To have professionals underneath one roof working together is rare. Woven into the structure of CWG is a primary care clinic and a pain management clinic.

“CWG is able to provide a client centered, holistic approach to health care,” said Michele Menzie, Chief Clinical Officer. “We are able to meet the clients’ mental health needs as well as their physical health needs.”

As a company, CWG works with non-profits like United Way, Arms of Hope, and Friends of the Family. They have also partnered with the University of North Texas to launch a “Kick the Stigma” campaign.

“People helping people is so powerful,” Awstin said.

His passion for people and helping has led him to the position he is in today. And, he doesn’t take his role lightly. Awstin is tough when it comes to his practice because he wants the very best for his clients. He does not take a lackadaisical approach with other people’s health. “We cannot raise the standard without redefining what the best we can do looks like,“ Awstin said.

Awstin wants CWG to be a leader in the mental health movement, to absolve the stigma, and to make the County of Denton healthier.

When it comes to their clients, he wants the community to think of him and his team as, “someone willing to journey through the dark, nasty, hurtful places, and pull them back into happiness. To give them the tools to never return there, then step aside and let them live their life to the fullest.”

“Seeing more and more people coming to treatment and heal is so soul enriching, fulfilling, and profoundly rewarding,” Awstin said. “I’ll do this forever.”

Connections Wellness Group is enriching our community and leading the way in promoting positive solutions that are changing lives, everyday. Connecting you back to what matters most.

If you or anyone you know needs to reach out to a mental health professional, visit online at connectionswellnessgroup.com or call to set up an appointment at (940) 222-2399. You are one call or email away from making a healthy life changing decision.

Best Children & Adolescent Therapist, Best Children & Adolescent Therapy Practice, & Best Psychiatry Practice Connections Wellness Group (940) 222-2399 2701 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 151 Denton, TX 76210 www.ConnectionsWellnessGroup.com

“We can connect [clients] to healing they’ve longed for their entire life, but didn’t know how to achieve,” said Awstin.

Best of Denton County 2019

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Medical & Health Services

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Giving You A Smile You Deserve

with Full-Service Dentistry

by Steve Gamel

Y

Your smile is the first thing people see. It’s not your fancy clothes, nice car, big house, successes at work, or even that new haircut.

It’s your smile. And when you are confident in your smile and how it looks, it goes without saying that everything else in your life instantly falls into place.

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Medical & Health Services

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The amazing team at Titensor Dental in Flower Mound believes in the power of smiling. So if you like your smile and want to keep it that way, or you want a smile you can finally show off, what are you waiting for?

Dr. Brett added, “A better smile is something everyone deserves. We want to help people smile.”

The award-winning father-son duo of Dr. Steven Titensor and Dr. Brett Titensor have become

Visit Titensor Dental today!

known as the go-to smile-makers in Denton

“A smile is usually the first thing someone

County. Patients routinely sing their praises

notices when you’re getting to know them,”

because not only are the Titensors the best at

Dr. Brett Titensor said. “It could be when you

what they do, but they’ve managed to create

go for a job interview, or when you meet that

a full-service dental practice that can take on

special someone. And when you are confident in

any need. Just a few of their services include

your smile, it brings that sense of pride to where

routine checkups, dental implants, wisdom teeth

you are more approachable, more attractive,

extractions, same-day crowns, veneers, tooth

and you will show your teeth. It helps with your

restoration, biological dentistry, Invisalign, and

physical self, but also your mental well-being.”

more. They are best known for their Titensor

Best of Denton County 2019

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Another key element to this practice, which is something that was alluded to earlier in this article, is their commitment to technology.

Titensor Dental has transitioned to being 100% digital. That means no more gooey and uncomfortable impressions. It also means faster turnaround times when it comes to lab work and scheduling appointments with patients.

“Placing implants digitally during surgery makes it safer and more predictable. This technology is better for our patients,” Dr. Brett said.

Dr. Steven Titensor graduated in 1986 from the Baylor College of Dentistry as a general dentist and has built a solid reputation as a master of family, implant, cosmetic, and sedation dentistry. He has obtained the International Dental Implant Association’s highest accreditation of Diplomate status and has emphasized his training in dental implants, TMJ, root canals, Invisalign, oral/IV sedation and advanced cosmetic dentistry including DURAthin prepless veneers.

Meanwhile, Dr. Brett Titensor followed in his father’s footsteps and is bringing the next generation of dentistry — innovation, technology, relationships, and service — into Titensor Dental with full enthusiasm.

The extensive training in CEREC same-day crown technology paired with Dr. Brett’s skill and passion for art and aesthetics has enabled Titensor Dental to offer beautiful, modern dental lab results in a fraction of the time. Seeing his talent, the CEREC Company selected Dr. Brett to be a mentor who trains other dentists nationwide in the technology.

Cosmetic Model, which has been developed

Dr. Steven Titensor started the practice 32 years

over the last three decades through advanced

ago, and they’ve rarely had to refer work out to

education, cutting-edge technology, and the

other offices. Especially over the last few years

desire to help people smile.

with Dr. Brett joining his father.

What is cosmetic dentistry, exactly?

By working together, the Titensors offer patients

This area of dentistry is focused on improving

an unrivaled level of care.

the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums,

“I like the fact that we have the two doctors.

and bite, particularly improving their color,

Two heads are better than one,” Dr. Brett said.

positioning, shape, size, and alignment for an

“We can take care of our patients with a greater

overall better smile. There have been many

standard of care. We are unique in the fact that

advancements over the years in this department,

we do offer all services. You can get a lot of it

including dentures, dental implants, CEREC

done in one appointment without having to be

same-day crowns, porcelain veneers, inlays and

referred out. Patients frequently tell us that our

onlays, and dental bonding, to name a few.

staff is very professional and knowledgeable.”

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

“Not all dental offices are the same. I’d recommend doing your research by looking at reviews from patients who have been there,” Dr. Brett added. “A lot of times, going to the least expensive dentist ends up costing you more in the long run. You have to look at the quality of care, and that’s something we provide our patients. They are getting the best dentistry possible and the best value for their investment.”

Best of Denton County 2019

Best Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Titensor with Titensor Dental (972) 355-9545 1901 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 320 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.TitensorDental.com |

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Passionate about dental care

by Betty Hilliard

A

A visit to the dentist, or just the thought of it, can be an anxiety provoking experience for some children (and their parents).

However, at Pediatric Dental World the core philosophy is that every trip can be a positive experience. From the moment you step into the office you realize that this is much more than just another dental practice. The entire facility was designed from the ground up specifically for children!

Being a pediatric dentist has enabled Dr. Jason Clapp to combine his interest in science and his love of working with people. While in college, he had an opportunity to work with children experiencing social, emotional and mental health difficulties. It was work he found extremely rewarding. Fast forward to dental school where two mentors encouraged him to consider focusing on pediatric dentistry, and the choice became obvious. Dr. Clapp opened Pediatric Dental World in 2002.

Dr. Clapp and his entire team at Pediatric Dental World are passionate about providing warm, compassionate and quality care for patients and their families. “We believe in a collaborative approach,” explained Dr. Clapp. “We want to educate our parents and families on the various options for their child. In doing so, this allows us the opportunity to create the best plan of action for each child and their specific needs.”

And that collaborative approach is felt throughout the office – from the care of the patients to the work environment among colleagues. Dr. Clapp and his business partner (and wife), Dr. Jessica Bell, have built an incredible team that includes four board certified pediatric dentists, specialists that focus on pediatrics and patients with special needs and a dedicated team of hygienists, clinical

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Additionally, they contribute to community organizations that focus on the youth along with providing dental education to more than 5,000 preschool and elementary-age children every year.

Not only does Dr. Clapp give back to his community, he has also given back to the pediatric dental industry serving in several organizations including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (TAPD) and the Southwest Society of Pediatric Dentistry.

He previously served as president of the board for both TAPD and the Southwest Society of Pediatric Dentistry.

Outside of the office, you can find Dr. Clapp assistants and administrators. Some of the team

“We would love to see our patients only twice

members have been with Dr. Clapp since he first

a year for their biannual checkup,” said Dr.

opened his doors.

Clapp. However, when more than a cleaning

Together, everyone at the office is committed to providing the best possible care and treatment for infants, children and teens. “Having a great team in place allows our office the ability to provide our patients and parents with a high level

and checkup is needed, they provide parents with a treatment plan that will best suit their child’s needs.

on either his road or mountain bike. He also likes to hit the road and travel, so when he and Jessica are not caring for the dental health of their patients, they like to get away for quick weekend trips. They especially enjoy visiting their two daughters, Anabelle and Charlotte, who are in college.

The group’s caring nature and concern for children extends beyond the office walls. Everyone in the office has a soft spot for children of all

of customer service that

Often, you will hear dentists encouraging their patients to watch the sugary sweets, but Dr. Clapp admits he has a bit of a sweet tooth himself. In fact, one of his guilty pleasures is

is often missing in health

ages. That is why they enjoy

care today. We have a lot

reaching out and helping

makes sure to brush his teeth really, really well

of fun while at work and

kids in the community.

before bed.

enjoy the opportunity we

One of their favorite

have of providing dental

community events that

care to our patients. It is

they host is Fang Fest – a

a privilege to be able to

community Halloween festival

provide care for our patients,

where kids can wear costumes

and we take that responsibility

and enjoy face painting, a

seriously,” said Dr. Clapp.

Today, there is a greater awareness of how oral health effects and contributes to a person’s overall health. The doctors and team at Pediatric Dental World realize prevention is

game truck, a petting zoo and many more games and activities.

Plus, all donations collected from the event are gifted to the Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County.

key not only to oral health but overall health.

The office also supports numerous local

The Pediatric Dental World team strives to

preschools, elementary, middle and high

teach and educate their patients how to take

schools by sponsoring their sports clubs, dance

care of their smile using preventive methods.

teams, PTA organizations and campus activities.

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

eating dessert before his meal. However, he

When asked how he wants to be remembered, Dr. Clapp answered, “I want to be remembered as someone who is passionate about providing excellent dental care and service to our patients and families. I care deeply about my patients, my team members and my community. I am grateful for each and every one of them.”

Best Pediatric Dental Practice & Best Pediatric Dentist

Best of Denton County 2019

Pediatric Dental World (972) 317-6997 2300 Village Pkwy.

Highland Village, TX 75077 www.PediatricDentalWorld.com

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WE SAVE

TEETH

TM

P

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. There are more than three million cases per year in the United States. Being correctly diagnosed and treated can lead to a healthier smile and prevent one from major complications down the road.

Alongside Dr. Patel, two other experts in periodontics have helped pave the way for the center to be able to expand and help more people. Dr. Steven R. Alspach is a ROOTTM Family member who adds over 20 years of experience and is dedicated to providing optimal care for his patients. Dr. Laura N. Rabe is determined to provide outstanding quality care by putting the patient first and offering a comfortable environment.

Getting to the root of the problem, that is Dr. Amit M. Patel’s specialty. When it comes to your mouth, especially your gums and tooth structures, you want the best of the best. If you have teeth that are hopeless and cannot be saved, then the doctors at ROOTTM are also experts in the placement of dental implants to replace these teeth. At ROOTTM Periodontal and Implant Centers, you are taken care of by the leaders in periodontal care and dental implants.

“We appreciate the support of the community!” said Dr. Patel. “It means a significant amount to all of the members of the ROOTTM Family.

Everyone works so hard to make sure that every patient and every referral gets the best experience possible.”

Founder and owner of ROOT , Dr. Patel’s list of degrees and achievements are proof that he has advanced training in treating periodontal disease and dental complexities, but it’s his love for healing and helping people that makes his patients feel like family.

TM

His goal is to provide the best treatment possible. In order to do that Dr. Patel has continued to grow his ROOTTM Family, adding new locations, friendly staff, incredible doctors, and staying up-to-date with advancements in technology. www.BestofDentonCounty.com

***Dr. Patel is an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Dental Association, and the Texas Dental Association.

He is also a Director of the local Seattle Study Club, a prestigious organization that currently has over 25 doctors from the DFW Metroplex as members.

Best Dental Implant Dentist & Best Periodontist Amit M Patel, D.D.S., M.S.D., with ROOT Periodontal and Implant Centers www.ROOTdfw.com 5 Great Locations

5 locations in DFW CARROLLTON 2440 N. Josey Ln., Ste. 202 Carrollton, TX 75006 (972) 242-7603

DENTON 1601 N. Elm St., Ste. B Denton, TX 76201 (940) 566-7021

FLOWER MOUND 651 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75028 (972) 434-8050

FRISCO 6340 Preston Rd., Ste. 100 Frisco, TX 75034 (469) 489-ROOT

Keller/Fort Worth 3848 N Tarrant Pkwy., Ste. 140 Fort Worth, TX 76244 (817) 242-ROOT

www.ROOTdfw.com Please See What Other Patients Have Said about Our Offices on GOOGLE!

.com/ROOTperio

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Dental Care FOR EVERYONE

S

by Betty Hilliard

Since 2012, Dr. Matt Artho and his team at Country Lakes Family Dental have been committed to providing gentle, quality dental care for families in the Denton County community. They take pride in their ability to treat patients of all ages and are known for their personal touch.

Additionally, Dr. Matt and his team now offer

grown his practice by focusing on two things:

an in-office dental plan for patients who do not

technology and patient comfort.

have insurance. Their VIP program exceeds most

wife, Leigh Ann, are busy raising their growing family. They have nine children ranging in age from newborn to teenager.

Clearly, Dr. Matt and his team have hit the mark with their patients. “Having won the Best of Denton County eight years in a row is a reassurance from our patients that our team is dental care and a relaxing experience to all members of the families that we hold dear to our office,” said Dr. Matt.

outside insurance benefits with more

He is continually learning and

“My staff and I work hard to create an atmosphere that caters to the comfort of the patient.”

adding new equipment and treatment options so he can provide his patients the best in dental care. Patient comfort is also a top priority in the office, but making sure patients are comfortable extends beyond the actual treatments.

treatment options and competitive pricing. Having the reassurance that they can receive excellent dental care at a reasonable price is another comforting feeling for patients.

At Country Lakes Dental, caring for patients and caring for the community go hand-in-hand. Everyone in the office lives in the Denton County area,

“At Country Lakes Dental, we constantly focus on solving the issue of dental

and they are passionate about being involved.

From supporting local school organizations to

anxiety,” said Dr. Matt. “My staff and I work

area nonprofits, you will often find a member of

hard to create an atmosphere that caters to the

the team at community events. “Being active

comfort of the patient.” That comfort includes

in our local community gives us an opportunity

everything from a cozy waiting room to dental

to see and interact with patients outside of the

chairs with TVs.

office,” says Dr. Matt.

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When he is not at the office, Dr. Matt and his

doing our very best to provide honest, quality

Dr. Matt, as he is known by his patients, has

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Dr. Matt’s focus on families starts with his own.

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Best of Denton County 2019

Best Family Dentist Matthew Artho, DDS with Country Lakes Family Dental (940) 455-7645 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 200 Bartonville, TX 76226 www.CountryLakesDental.com facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Compassion

Care

F

From the moment she became a pediatrician 12 years ago, Dr. Rebecca Butler knew she wanted a practice where her patients felt at home. She wanted to build an office that was comfortable for both kids and parents with the feel of a “small town” doctor despite an ever-changing medical system.

At Lantana Pediatrics, she has built this type of family practice with the compassion and care that her clients need while utilizing the latest in medical practices and technology.

“It is difficult to maintain a personal one-on-one relationship with families amid big business and advancing technology,” said Dr. Butler. “We strive every day to give our families the personalized care they deserve.”

She added, “Over the past several years, Lantana and its surrounding communities have grown tremendously and

is to grow and enhance existing relationships and establish new relationships all without sacrificing our core standards of care and without eliminating the qualities of our practice that made our patients fall in love with us in the first place. As of December 2019, Lantana Pediatrics is very excited to welcome an additional provider to the team as a truly compassionate caregiver with the same commitment to the core values of care that I have.”

One of Dr. Butler’s core beliefs is in treating the patient as a “whole.” That means, in addition to treating the sum of their systems, she looks at the impact of social and environmental surroundings. She believes that treatment

to know that she has provided the most comprehensive care possible.

One aspect that truly excites Dr. Butler is staying on top of the latest in the field of

medicine. She loves to learn and apply all of

the latest medical practices to give her patients the best care possible. She believes the most

important quality in her profession, however, is “It is important that a family is listened to and that their concerns are adequately addressed and questions answered,” said Dr. Butler. “

That’s exactly what I had in mind when we built this practice.”

should include mind and body.

“I deal every day with parents’

frustrations with regard to their child’s health and behavioral

well-being,” explains Dr. Butler.

“Treating the whole person, from a physical and

sociological standpoint, is vital in caring for the

growing and developing

minds of children. My goal

Top 3 Best Pediatrician Rebecca Butler, M.D. F.A.A.P. with Lantana Pediatrics (972) 679-4328 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 Bartonville, TX 76226 www.LantanaPediatrics.com

is to give parents peace

of mind and help them raise amazing and successful children.”

to the area. Our main goal in continuing to

As a matter of fact, Dr. Butler tends to be

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

than necessary. But it’s important for her

in the ability of the doctor to listen to patients.

welcomed a multitude of young families provide quality care to a growing community

receive, sometimes spending more time

meticulous about the care her patients

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Smiles

H

by Brooke Ezzo

H e alth y & H app y

Healthy smiles and positive attitudes towards going to the dentist are top priorities for the experienced pediatric dentists at Dental Care 4 Kids, an office that has been a stronghold in Denton County for over 20 years. Their team of experienced professionals strive to provide the highest quality of care as well as promoting a welcoming environment for parents where they are encouraged to be a part of their child’s dental experience.

practice. From the small town of Hastings,

Dr. Melissa Waters, D.D.S.,

their trust, while creating a positive

Nebraska Dr. Waters started her career as a

nurse, working in pediatrics, before the stars

aligned and led her to Denton County. “When I received a phone call about becoming a part of this amazing, well-established office, I jumped and haven’t looked back,” Dr. Waters said.

In August of this year, she joined the team at Dental Care 4 Kids and works alongside Dr.

Andrea Gonzales, known to local residents as Dr. G. Together, Dr. Waters and Dr. Gonzales have many years of combined experience

with the goal of making children feel at ease in the dental office. As mothers themselves, they take a compassionate, individualized approach to each child and work to gain

with each family educating and informing them not only about their oral health care needs,

but also their overall wellness. “I have a very

gentle demeanor when it comes to the way I practice dentistry”, Dr. Waters said.

“I approach every child as if they were my

own.” It is the exceptional level of care given to each patient that makes families choose

Dental Care 4 Kids as their child’s dental home.

At Dental Care 4 Kids, they have incorporated

into their practice what is known as “minimally invasive dentistry”. This can be described as a medical approach to treating tooth decay and is especially useful on very young patients.

A solution called “Silver Diamine Fluoride” is

painted onto the areas of the teeth that have

cavities. The purpose of this is to prevent the

progression of tooth decay and allows the child time to become acquainted with the dental

environment prior to having to return for more extensive treatment needs.

Dr. Waters and her family are excited to now be a part of the Denton county community.

She looks forward not only to watching her

children grow and thrive in such a wonderful community, but to watch her dental family grow here as well.

experience they will remember.

always had an interest in

In their practice, it is a priority

dentistry and the desire

to have her own pediatric

that individual time is spent

Top 3 Best Pediatric Dental Practice Dental Care 4 Kids (972) 874-2800 2260 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.DentalCare4KidsTexas.com 22 |

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C heering on your

H e a lth

D

Dr. Lowell Phipps isn’t just a doctor.

He is a personal cheerleader for his patients encouraging them to live their best life possible.

by Betty Hilliard

As a teenager, Dr. Phipps felt called to medicine.

Dr. Phipps and his team at Phipps Family

Since that time, doors continued to open for him

Medicine treat patients in a caring, Christian

guiding him into medicine and ultimately

environment. They believe in promoting good

to focus on the field of family medicine.

health and encourage their patients to be

Today, Dr. Phipps has been cheering on his

actively engaged in their own healthcare. “I used

patients for 23 years – 20 years

to have the mindset of a mechanic – fix things

here in the Denton County community. And, his passion for helping others through his practice is as strong now as it was when he started.

After many years of working for a corporate practice, Dr. Phipps has opened his own office, and he is excited to get back to his

better liv ing by focusing on diet, exercise , self - care and positi v e thi n ki n g .

roots where he can focus on

that are wrong,” said Dr. Phipps.

“Now, I am more inclined to look at the things we can do to

“It’s not about what medicine our patients need to take or what we can give them.

It’s about the journey we are all on,” said Dr. Phipps. “I am committed to walking along side my patients and supporting them with all their healthcare needs.”

promote good health and try to prevent as many healthcare issues as possible down the road. I partner with my patients to develop a personal health plan that supports better living by focusing on diet, exercise, self-care and positive thinking.”

individualized and personalized care for each of

Creating a sense of community for their patients

his patients. It isn’t just about putting a Band-Aid

is a top priority at Phipps Family Medicine.

on the problem. It is about getting to the core of

Each team member is dedicated to helping

the problem and treating the cause of the issue

others both in the office and in the community.

as opposed to simply treating the symptoms.

Whether it is volunteering in local organizations

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

or traveling to Guatemala to take part in medical mission work, they are excited about building relationships with everyone they meet.

Best of Denton County 2019

Lowell Phipps, M.D. with Phipps Family Medicine (972) 317-1400 2014 Justin Rd., Ste. 104 Highland Village, TX 75077 |

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Quality Care P R O V I D IN G

at a m o m e n t ’ s n o t i c e

by Steve Gamel

S

Scott Vanderhoef remembers what it was like searching for quality senior care for his grandmother. Not only was the process emotional and overwhelming, but the agencies his family ultimately worked with were mostly unreliable.

making the transition to a nursing home or

“They didn’t do anything but sit ... they

bound and end of life care, impaired mobility

were sitters,” Scott said. “I knew I could do better providing real

assisted living facility, but trying to handle it on your own can become a burden that

makes it impossible to maintain the life you

want for yourself and your family. Heaven at

Home eases that burden with quality care at a moment’s notice. Other services include

meal planning and preparation, transportation to appointments, grocery shopping, bed

assistance, and monitoring and reporting of vital signs.

customer service.”

Scott said they also work

Fast forward to today

and Scott is the proud owner of award-

winning Heaven at

Home Senior Care.

Heaven at Home,

which was started in 2002 right here

in Denton County,

does exactly what the

T h e s e n ior population is one of our most v aluable resources

staff for their residents

and clients, which means even when colleagues

and counterparts have trouble meeting their

staffing needs, they call Heaven at Home. it’s personal.

a licensed caregiving company that offers

a wide array of personal assistance services

for your loved ones – right in the comfort of

their own home. They handle everything from light household duties and companionship

care to post-hospitalization care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and Dementia care.

“We often have clients call us at the last

minute on a Friday evening when their loved one is getting discharged from the hospital.

They need help now,” Scott said. “Not only

do we dedicate the time to get to know their specific needs, but we will provide well-

trained and personality-matched caregivers at

In 2019, Heaven at Home was voted top 3 Best Alzheimer’s Care and won Best In-Home Care

by Best of Denton County voters.

In-home care is becoming an increasingly

logical option for those who are unsure about Medical & Health Services

and agencies to provide

For Scott and his staff,

name suggests. It is

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the last minute.”

Scott added, “The senior population is one of

our most valuable resources, and being able to help them live safely and securely in their own

Best In-Home Care Heaven at Home (940) 380-0500 623 Londonderry Ln. Denton, TX 76205 www.HeavenAtHomecare.com

home is incredibly rewarding.”

Best of Denton County 2019

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For The Love of

by Brook Ezzo

Children!

W

“I enjoy teaching my parents about what is happening with their child’s illness, disease, or behavior,” Dr. Conger said. “I like the light bulb moment when parents get it.”

In a time where the information highway is too fast, overloaded, and frightening, the dedicated doctors at Kids First primary goal is accessible, continuous, comprehensive, and coordinated care.

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Putting kids first. Proof they accomplish this philosophy comes each year as Kids First Pediatrics has been named Best of Denton County by voters for five consecutive years.

They’ve also been recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Patient Centered Medical Home practice.

A practice that focuses on evidence-based medicine; they rely on scientific evidence for guidance and decision-making. When parents come to Kids First they can rest easy when it comes to their child’s health and needs because they are receiving quality care from professionals who love children and are excited about their work.

What’s in a name? When it comes to our children’s healthcare, everything. At Kids First Pediatrics Dr. Marla Conger and her medical staff do just that.

They put. Kids. First.

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psychologists in providing testing, therapy, and counseling. Kids First is dedicated to the ongoing research to improve care and quality for their patients and future generations.

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Dr. Conger said she’s wanted to be a doctor for as long as she can remember and the deal was sealed when she cut the tip of her finger off using a paper cutter in high school and was fascinated as the hospital doctor sewed it back on. Since then Dr. Conger and the other incredible Pediatricians and medical staff have received multiple degrees and have gained years of experience. Kids First Pediatrics has been helping parents raise their children since 1991.

At Kids First Pediatrics, you will find a medical staff who are passionate about the physical and mental health of our children. As mental health continues to be a major topic in our country, Kids First recognizes the need for collaboration between the medical and mental health communities. They partner up with local

Best of Denton County 2019

“I could not have picked a better career for myself,” exclaimed Dr. Conger.

Best Pediatrician Marla Conger, M.D., F.A.A.P with Kids First Pediatrics (972) 317-6000 2200 Village Pkwy.

Highland Village, TX 75077 www.KidsFirstPediatrics.com

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Experience the

Difference K

by Steve Gamel

Kimberly Gronberg loved having braces when she was growing up. OK, so maybe she didn’t love them, but she didn’t hate them either, and much of that was because she knew she had the right orthodontist in her corner.

Kimberly was only 13 years old at the time but felt a sense of

community partner and the kind of care that makes a difference. Dr. Gronberg, Dr. Lauren Davis, and Dr. Charlene Sugay completed two to three years of extra training beyond the four years of dental school in an orthodontic residency program at Baylor College of Dentistry and pride themselves on having a relaxing atmosphere no matter if you are a young child or

Not only did Kimberly – that’s Dr. Kimberly

an adult.

Gronberg, DDS, MS now – follow through

Their individualized services includes clear

with that plan, but she worked in several

braces, self-ligating braces, Damon® brackets,

orthodontists’ offices after she graduated from

and Invisalign® along with digital X-rays and

dental school and used all the great things she

models and the highest quality in products and

learned to her advantage in opening Gronberg

materials. Beyond the doctors, the entire staff

Orthodontics 11 years ago. In that time, she

at Gronberg is knowledgeable and truly cares

has created what many believe is the ultimate

about the customer.

practice. Proof of that came in September when she was named Best Orthodontist by Best of Denton

calm knowing

County voters.

her orthodontist was going to

“In orthodontics,

take care of

there are a

her and make

lot of moving

sure she had

parts. I think our

the best smile

patients feel

possible. In fact,

good knowing

their entire team

we only have

made such a memorable impression

one location, so we are always at our Highland

that Kimberly saw herself following in their

Village office for any repairs instead of having to

footsteps someday.

drive or wait to be seen,” Kimberly said. “I think

“My orthodontist’s office was a great

we are known for being a caring office. We don’t

environment,” she said. “I started thinking that it

just care for our patients’ teeth – we care about

would be a great profession to go into.”

the whole person.”

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

At Gronberg Orthodontics, you will find a

“I love being a part of the community I live and work in,” Kimberly said. “My family and I have lived in Highland Village for 15 years now; this community feels like a small town, and I love being a part of our patients’ lives in many areas.”

Best of Denton County 2019

Best Orthodontist Dr. Kimberly Gronberg, DDS, MS with Gronberg Orthodontics (972) 966-2326 3000 Village Pkwy., Ste. 430 Highland Village, TX 75077 www.GronbergOrthodontics.com

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3 Years

Thank You for Voting Us

in a Row

by Steve Gamel

C

Car dealerships seem like they are a dime a dozen, don’t they? From Mazda to Dodge, Chevrolet, Volkswagen, Chrysler, Jeep, and BMW, consumers are never short on options on where to find their must-have makes and models. But when you consider superior and quality automotive services in Denton County, only one dealership has cornered the market.

Classic of Denton, which was already the one-stop comprehensive shop for all Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Mazda enthusiasts, won three Best of Denton County awards this year in the Auto Service, New Car, and PreOwned categories.

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To put that haul into proper perspective, Classic of Denton was the ONLY dealership to win more than two awards – and they impressively did so in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

Mazda’s virtual dealership offers a wide variety of new and used cars, incentives, service specials, and parts savings.

With that type of attitude, it’s no wonder their catchy slogan has always been, “Relax ... and enjoy the difference.”

What’s more, Classic is family owned and operated. For the customer and the community, that means you can still walk in the front door and shake Rick’s hand or meet owner, Richard Allen. Both live in the area too, with Richard living in Argyle and Rick having settled down in Denton. Rick boasts that he makes himself accessible as much as he can and even has his cell phone number on his business card. Classic also doesn’t have a high amount of employee turnover, which means you have a great chance of working with the same smiling faces for years to come.

Since 2004, Classic of Denton’s goal has been to make the vehicle buying experience second to none with prices and service that can’t be beaten. Classic Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram,

“I’m a people person, and I love it when someone comes in, and they say, ‘Hey Rick, this is my fifth car from y’all.” Or they come in and say, ‘I’m bringing my wife to you for her car

“To win all three categories in three-straight years like that is huge,” general manager Rick Wick said with a laugh. “This is what the customers in Denton County are saying about us, and it’s huge. We know the community already knows about us, but it’s nice to know all the customers and the public are recognizing how hard we work for them.”

Best of Denton County 2019

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because of the way you’ve always taken care of us.’ It’s also cool when you drive around, and you see that Classic logo on a car driving by.

We know right then that it’s one of ours.”

Rick added, “We believe in taking care of our customers and our employees. At Classic, it’s customers, employees, and then profitability.

At other places, it’s profitability, profitability, and profitability. It makes a difference.”

Rick is a perfect example of the tradition that Classic of Denton has established, and the car business is in his blood. He’s been in the car business since 1972 and started as a porter making $1.65 an hour. Now he’s the general manager for a company that, like Rick, has grown with the times.

Classic opened in 2004 with 35 employees and now has 110.

The company started on five acres of land and since has mushroomed to 26 acres. In its first year, Classic sold an average of 40 to 60 vehicles per month.

Now, the dealership averages 350 to 400 per month – new and used.

Classic Mazda of Denton was awarded the 2019 Dealer of the Year award, the 2019 Consumer Satisfaction Award by Dealer Rater for Chrysler Jeep Dodge, and has been the Factory Authorized Mazda Gold Cup Dealer since 2008. Classic of Denton is the only Jerry Reynolds “Car-Pro” Authorized Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Mazda Dealer in North Texas.

who are victims of domestic violence and sexual

2012 through Cloud 9 Charities. The program

assault. The organization adopted 56 children

was created to provide temporary housing for

of Giving Hope, Inc., which is a Denton-based

homeless families in our community to help get

organization that assists individuals and families

them back on their feet and make long-term

who are homeless or at risk of becoming

plans for a successful future.

homeless by providing financial aid, housing, job training, transportation, childcare, and

Rick and longtime owner and Argyle resident

basic necessities.

Richard Allen presented United States Marine Corps Sergeant Kenneth Rolon with a 2019 Ram

Classic of Denton’s giving campaign didn’t stop

Lonestar Crew Cab Classic in February. They did

there. It adopted 24 children for Lake Cities

so as part of a joint effort with Wells Fargo Bank

Church and 21 children and six mothers through

and the Military Warriors Support Foundation,

Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home,

which honored Sergeant Rolon through its

which has a proud history of offering healing and

Transportation4Heroes program.

hope to vulnerable children, teens, and families.

Last but not least, Classic recently participated

It also donated sheets, gift cards, backpacks,

in the Fix My Ride program and donated a 2010 Mazda3. Fix My Ride is an event designed to assist single parents, the unemployed and underemployed, as well as those who are not currently able to afford minor vehicle repairs and maintenance (wiper blades, tire rotation, headlight/taillight bulb

Classic Mazda of Denton

replacement, belts, alternators, batteries,

Your Hometown Dealer Will Have a Brand New Look in 2020 Come See Us!

starters, tune-ups, brakes, etc).

“We do a lot for the community,” Rick said.

and hoodies to the Monsignor King Outreach

“I remember Richard asking me if I’ve ever

Center of Denton. The outreach center opens on

put a dollar amount on how much we give

December 24 every year for the homeless and

back to the community each year. It’d take me

is also open anytime the temperature outside is

weeks and weeks to calculate, but I’d say it’s

above 80 degrees or below 38 degrees.

probably in excess of one million dollars over

Beyond the business side of things, the folks at Classic of Denton would be nothing without their community outreach and volunteer efforts.

This is an organization that continues to give while partnering with such entities as Giving Hope of Denton, Serve Denton, The Wheeler House, Denton Independent School District, Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home of Denton, and Friends of the Family.

Our Daily Bread, which provides nutritious

our 15-year history. And that’s straight to the

meals, special services, and referrals for other

community. We don’t take expenses out of

services to those in need, received a cash

that. It’s all volunteerism.”

For 2018, Classic of Denton adopted 119 children that are homeless yet attend school in the Denton Independent School District, and provided 330 learning cards to the Gonzalez School in Denton. Classic also adopted 134 children for the Friends of the Family Denton organization, which assists mothers and children

managers contributed $2,100 as a gift to

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

donation of $3,000 along with prepaid gift cards.

Which is why at Classic of Denton, whether you

Through the efforts of the Classic of Denton

are looking for a community partner or someone

employees, customers, and vendors, over

to sell you a vehicle, there truly is a difference.

$40,000 was collected.

Best Auto Service Center - Dealership, Best Domestic Car Dealership & Best Pre-Owned Car Dealerhip

The Friday before Christmas, all Classic Crosstimbers Church, on behalf of owner Richard Allen. Mr. Allen then matched a check for $2,100 for a total of $4,200 to Crosstimbers Church.

Classic donated $3,000 to the Bedtime Rescue

Classic of Denton (940) 498-9800 4984 South I-35E Denton, TX 76210 www.ClassicOfDenton.com

Program, which was founded in December Best of Denton County 2019

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years of combined experience, Scott, Curtis, Chad, and Judy continue to provide dedicated, and quality service. Because of this, Briscoe Tire prides itself in having generational customers.

At the shop you will hear tales of Uncle Jack, of people coming in as children and now bringing in their own, and stories of customers being around from the beginning.

Everyone is someone at B r i s c o e A l i g n m e n t & T i r e

W

by Brooke Ezzo

When you walk into Briscoe

Alignment & Tire you are greeted

with friendly smiles, the sounds of

bustling employees, and you might

Dwayne Waters started working with his uncle, alignment business from the ground up.

With his uncle as his mentor and his father teaching him what it meant to work hard, Dwayne was engrained with a never give

Since the late sixties Briscoe Tire has been

growing knowledge of tire and alignment

a staple in the Denton County community.

services led him to acquire Briscoe Tire in 1991.

awning attached to a restaurant, then gradually acquiring the space for the shop, Briscoe Tire proudly stands as one of the oldest, independent tire stores in the county.

“I am just so proud,” Dwayne said. “This isn’t about me, our customers and employees are what make this shop a stronghold in the tire and alignment business.”

Jack Briscoe, in 1979. He learned the tire and

even learn a history lesson.

Starting from under a small

“There is a sense of security knowing the same guys have been here for so long,” Dwayne said.

“Seeing the same faces each time can make you feel like you’re a part of something special.”

That’s because each employee takes the time to educate you. They visually show you what is happening with your tires and alignment, and they make sure you understand the inner workings before completing each service.

up attitude. His hard work, persistence, and

After 40 years in the business, Dwayne has been able to employ the best of the best.

He says the success of Briscoe Tire comes from his faithful and knowledgeable employees, and their loyal customers. With over 100

As Denton County continues to grow, Briscoe Tire looks forward to the growth and meeting new customers while making sure they maintain that hometown feel. Small, humble beginnings can turn into big dreams, and Dwayne and his crew are incredibly grateful to their customers for voting them Best of Denton County.

Best Tire Store Briscoe Alignment & Tire (940) 382-1331 822 S. Elm St. Denton, TX 76201 BriscoeTire.com

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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We appreciate you supporting small businesses by shopping local

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Voted best

Best of Denton County 2019

Interior Decorator Interior Design Studio Patio & Outdoor Living Contractors facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Make Your Dream Home

A Reality Patio & Outdoor Living Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Additions Pool Remodel Landscape Design and Installation Blinds, Shutters, Shades (Hunter Douglas)

Exterior (214) 735-1363 CompleteSolutionsDFW.com Interior (972) 539-8258 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 100 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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We are accredited by:

Thank You 44 |

for Voting Us as the Best

in Denton County

Custom Pools | Custom Spas | Pool Remodeling Patio Covers | Cabanas | Arbors | Outdoor Kitchens | Fireplaces Fire Pits | Water Features | Fire Features | Outdoor Lighting

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Decks & Balconies

outdoor rooms

(972) 317-3500

Outdoorliving-poolandpatio.com

9067 Teasley Lane (Next to Guyer High School) www.BestofDentonCounty.com

outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, grills & more Best of Denton County 2019

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by Steve Gamel

B

By the time native-Texans Marty Hoover and Tommy Baker left Xerox Corporation after more than 20 years of loyal service each, they had the customer service and problem-solving game down to a science. For them, it was never as much about just diagnosing problems as it was coming up with real solutions for their customers.

And all these years later, they refuse to shake that mindset.

to get into the highly competitive lawn care

“In my book, Xerox was one of the early

rewarded for those solid

founders of quality control,” Marty said with a laugh. “We had that mindset embedded in us over those 20 years. It’s in our DNA now; we can’t get it to leave.”

He added, “We don’t just guess. We are going to come up with the right answers.

That’s what we do.”

Holding true to their quality control roots is what helped Marty and Tommy successfully pull off a dramatic career shift when they left the corporate world behind 20 years ago 46 |

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business. As much as they enjoyed the culture at Xerox, both had dreams of chasing loftier goals and building their own company from the ground up. So they dove headfirst into starting their own Weed Man franchise in North DFW. They started with zero customers and limited lawn care experience and have since seen their popularity soar with more than 4,000 satisfied customers.

Their retention rate is consistently between

80-90% each year when the industry standard is typically between 60-70%.

And in 2019, they were

business practices when

they were named Best Weed Control company by Best

of Denton County voters. It

was the second straight year Weed Man North DFW took home a BODC award.

Dallas County,” said Marty, who has lived in

Denton County since 1996. “We looked at a lot of different businesses, and there was a

learning curve. But I think what it comes down to is that we just go out there and do our

job. There’s no real secret to it. There are no cutting corners, we use great products, and we let the results speak for themselves.”

And results are exactly what customers can expect when they use Weed Man services.

The locally-owned and operated franchise covers lawn fertilization, weed control, integrated pest management services,

lawn disease management,

federally tested and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency

“Denton County is where

we began, and it’s still a special place to

us even as we’ve expanded our territory

to include Northeast Tarrant County, most

of Collin County, and the northern parts of

and more. The products

they use are all federally

tested and approved by the Environmental Protection

Agency, who are committed to the health and safety of Americans.

On top of all that, they

pride themselves on open

communication and educating

customers, as the true value of Weed

Man’s service is realized only when both

the company and the customer are doing facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

their part. Weed Man of North DFW recommends and performs the right services at the right time and provides the customer with post-treatment instructions as well as valuable information about proper mowing and watering practices.

Basically, when you hire Weed Man of North DFW as your lawn care provider, they become a partner in understanding what your lawn care requirements are — no matter the season or the situation. They provide free lawn care quotes and will custom tailor a program that is just right for you and your lawn.

“The way we see it, every problem is an opportunity. We want to solve it by diagnosing it down to the actual cause and then providing a solution,” Marty said. “When it comes to lawns, you don’t see the same things during every time of the year. But you learn as you go, and you always work to come up with the right answers.” www.BestofDentonCounty.com

For more information on Weed Man North DFW, its lengthy list of services, and how to enjoy a beautiful, healthy, and greener lawn, visit NDFW.WeedManUSA.com or call (972) 865-2204 or (940) 648-2552 to

Best Weed Control Weed Man North DFW (972) 865-2204 (940) 648-2552 NDFW.WeedManUSA.com

schedule a free quote.

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Community Se rvi n g th e

in m or e ways t h a n o n e

A

family, and they work together to bring their customers exceptional service – service that is reliable and environmentally responsible.

ABC’s greatest strength lies in its people.

Dennis looks for people who are hardworking, likable and trustworthy. Once hired, training. The company promotes continuing

Launching the business in his garage in 1989, Dennis began without a single client. Today, ABC serves more than 29,000 customers.

Not only has the number of customers grown, so has the number of services the company offers. What started out as a pest control company has evolved to become a company that offers numerous solutions for their customers’ homes and businesses. Their services have

education and provides opportunities for grown to include pest control, lawn mowing, lawn fertilization, plumbing, handyman, pool services, sprinkler repair, and insulation.

employees to become certified in areas

In June, ABC acquired Daniels Air - a family business that has been in the Denton County area since 1969. With the recent acquisition, ABC has expanded their offerings to include HVAC services. Now, ABC will be able to provide customers with heating and cooling system repairs, maintenance and installations.

provide such great services to its customers.

“Our goal is to supply solutions to our customers, so they only need to make one call,” explains Dennis. “If a customer calls in need of handyman work and part of the project requires plumbing, the customer does not need to look for another plumber. We can provide that service. Our aim is to become our customer’s onestop shop for all their home or business solutions.”

area. Additionally, team members get out into

ABC Home and Commercial is definitely a family business. In fact, the third generation of family members are actively

Home Services

beyond bloodlines. Employees become like

employees receive in-depth, hands-on

by Betty Hilliard

Although Dennis Jenkins has made a career out of the family business, he wasn’t just handed the company.

The San Antonio native grew up helping at his father’s pest control business, but when he moved to Denton County more than 30 years ago, he started ABC Home and Commercial Services from scratch.

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Best of Denton County 2019

beyond just what the industry requires. This focus on the employee is what enables ABC to

A huge part of the company culture involves giving back to the community and making a difference. ABC has an internal program called “Anteater Advocates,” and they donate pest control services to more than 200 locations for nonprofit organizations throughout the DFW the community every month to serve in food pantries and help in local organizations.

“We feel that giving back to our community is being a good steward of the blessings God has given us,” said Dennis.

“We are passionate about serving – serving our customers and serving our community,” continued Dennis. “It’s in our DNA. At ABC, it is not just about what we do, it is also about who we are.”

Best Exterminator ABC Home & Commercial Services (469) 549-7300 997 Grandys Ln. Lewisville, TX 75077 www.ABCHomeAndCommercial.com

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

NEED SUPERIOR A/C SERVICE? THE RIGHT JOB, WITH EXCELLENCE,

Every Time T

by Steve Gamel

There’s nothing worse than waking up late at night drenched in sweat because your air conditioner stopped working. Well, actually there is – how about being stuck without cool air during the middle of a hot summer day in North Texas?

There are plenty of companies you can call when air conditioning and heating troubles strike, but when you need superior A/C service done right, and with a local touch, Northside A/C is your go-to choice.

“We are known for reliability and great customer service,” Northside A/C co-owner Jerry Grote said.

“We have a knack for treating each customer as if they were the most important – because they are.”

Jerry, co-owner Bobby Pope, and the impressive staff at Northside A/C in Lewisville were voted Best Heating/Air Repair Company in this year’s Best of Denton County awards for a reason.

They put their customers first. Add to that their combined industry knowledge – a collective

100-plus years – and you will find an operation that is second to none. They’ve been keeping Denton County residents comfortable and top of mind since

2004, offering everything from routine maintenance and new

consultation as well as design, diagnostics, repairs, replacements, and 24/7 service.

Northside A/C employs some of the most highly trained staff in the area that are background checked and drug tested so you feel confident and secure. Their repair and installation technicians have gained numerous certifications from prominent organizations including American Standard, North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), as well as in specialties such as variable speed systems, geothermal systems, and ductless systems.

More importantly, they buck the trend of the impersonal service, unreliability, and pushy sales tactics that can be found in much bigger HVAC companies.

For Jerry, Northside A/C was started in order to fill a void in the industry, by focusing on the needs of the customer. And they are here to stay.

“I like to create stability and consistency for my employees and customers,” Jerry said.

“By creating systems and processes that focus on our customers’ needs, we are also raising the industry standard. Northside excels at giving our customers a sense of direction. HVAC repairs and replacements can be unexpected and costly, and some customers get lost with all the options available. We offer a sense of calm decision-making to guide clients through this. We have assisted countless homeowners in navigating the service and replacement process.

We strive to put customers in a better situation, and for some, we have helped reduce their electric bills in half.”

construction installations to commercial and residential

TACLB023755E TACLA26888C

Over 50 Years Experience Locally Owned & Operated Sales • Service • Installation • All Makes & Models

Best Heating / Air Repair

rating Our 15th Annivers re Celeb ary!

A e W www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Northside Air Conditioning (972) 318-5097 www.NorthsideAir.com Residential & Commercial Best of Denton County 2019

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Your Go-to

for tree care and removal

by Steve Gamel

E

Everyone loves having big, healthy trees in their front yard. Not only are they a perfect reminder of the amazing gifts that nature provides to us every day, but if properly maintained, they also create a great first impression for guests and neighbors and are a reflection of the amazing people who live there.

The 1-2-Tree team in Flower Mound is dedicated to the utmost care and integrity of your trees and landscape. At the same time, some situations arise where trees either need to be trimmed to improve their growth pattern and overall lifespan or removed completely to create more visibility for your house, building, or signage. 1-2-Tree knows you have options when it comes to these needs, and is honored to be that No. 1 choice for so many people.

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Proof of that came this year as they were voted Best Tree Removal Service by Best of Denton County voters.

Perhaps the biggest selling point to 1-2-Tree is

“I love seeing an overwhelmingly satisfied customer,” owner Patrick Koch said. “We understand trees and what’s best for them, and I feel like I also know how to decipher our clients’ needs and wants when they don’t have the technical knowledge to express them. We want to be the No. 1 tree service in the Flower Mound area.”

and lives in Flower Mound with his own family.

There are a variety of services 1-2-Tree provides, including pruning, removal, stump grinding, emergency services for fallen branches and brush removal, and lot clearing of unwanted growth, scrub brush, and trees. They offer free estimates and have built partnerships with several area businesses such as tree nurseries, construction and restoration specialists, sprinkler repair companies, and more to provide a turnkey product for customers.

that it is trusted and family-owned and operated.

Patrick has been in the profession since 1992 His daughter, Bree Neal, is the company’s bookkeeper, and his son-in-law, Mark, is the general manager. Bree’s daughters, Collins and Heidi, also love to be in the office running around at the shop. 1-2-Tree is also a regular contributor to CASA and the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital.

“I just want to be remembered as a loving husband, father, and friend who was fair and hardworking,” Patrick said.

Best Tree Removal Service 1-2-Tree (972) 989-9332 332 Old Gerault Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.12Tree.com

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Oasis Awaits

B

Bowen Pools in Flower Mound may just be the biggest name in the pool business today.

We’re not going to lie; that’s certainly a bold statement to make. But word is quickly spreading among Denton County residents that this family-owned and operated pool company, which has only been around for just more than two years, is separating itself as a better option than many of the big names that have been around for decades.

by Steve Gamel

Your Backyard Pool

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“I’m also the project manager for new construction. So I’m at every job. If I’m not there, it is not difficult to get me out there to take a look,” Chris said. “We are following codes stringently, offering different packages for custom pools, and doing in-floor cleaning systems on all of our pools. There isn’t a project too big for us.”

“Yeah — there’s a big pool company on every corner,” owner Chris Bowen said. “But we’re beating them where it counts.”

He added, “We are doing things differently, and I know we have an edge on them. Our goal is quality.”

Bowen Pools is a one-stop-shop for remodels and new construction.

They also handle covered patios, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and landscaping.

They provide in-depth design approaches, which is pivotal to ensuring your next outdoor oasis is the envy of the neighborhood.

T here isn’t a project too big for us.

Still don’t believe us? Look to this year’s Best of Denton County awards as proof. Bowen Pools was named Best Swimming Pool Remodeler by area voters in what was their first year in the contest.

They were also a Top 3 finisher for Best Pool Maintenance and Best Swimming Pool Builders.

plumbing, tanning ledges, and even changing the shape of pools. On new construction, they waterproof all concrete shells, use higher-end materials no matter the size of the job, and ensure proper hydraulics for all your plumbing needs.

Chris said his team never stops learning their craft and would like to think their expertise in new construction and renovations is right up there with the best of them. On the renovation side, that means everything from upsizing

Best Swimming Pool Remodelers Bowen Pools (214) 770-7227 3341 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75022 BowenPoolsLLC.com

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www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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Compassionate

Solutions

E

by Brooke Ezzo

Each year, 6-8 million cats and dogs enter animal shelters throughout the United States.

Due to low adoption rates, most of these animals never find a forever home. Animal shelters are forced to cope with excessive animal intake through euthanasia.

The Texas Coalition for Animal Protection knows that this problem is rooted in pet overpopulation and this is where they focus on making a difference.

and neutered more than 55,000 dogs and

“The answer to stopping euthanasia starts with

“The staff was very friendly and professional.

Stacey Schumacher. The Texas Coalition

I will continue to use Texas Coalition for Animal

compassionate solutions to overpopulation

-Jessica O.

cats. Since founding, TCAP has sterilized

more than 457,000 North Texas animals and vaccinated more than 753,000 against the

deadly rabies virus. TCAP’s ultimate goal is to

substantially reduce animal overpopulation and euthanasia throughout North Texas. Spaying and neutering pets is the most effective and

humane way to reduce animal overpopulation.

In addition to reducing euthanasia rates,

accessible and affordable spays and neuters also improve community animal welfare

by decreasing the many problems linked

to overpopulation, including malnutrition, abandonment, and neglect.

prevention,” says TCAP Executive Director,

The whole process was quick and simple.

for Animal Protection (TCAP) provides

Protection for my vet pet needs.”

and improving community animal welfare.

TCAP currently operates standalone clinics

TCAP identified effective methods to combat

animal overpopulation and to lower euthanasia rates in local shelters and has been a leader

in animal welfare since its formation in 2002.

As a Denton-based non-profit, TCAP provides the lowest prices for preventative animal care

throughout North Texas. In 2007, the Humane Society of the United States named TCAP

as the “most innovative approach to animal welfare in the nation.”

TCAP’s sole mission is to keep pet ownership affordable for families so that pets remain

in their homes. In 2018 alone, TCAP’s caring and highly skilled veterinary team spayed 60 |

Community & Non-Profit

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in Denton, Fort Worth, Burleson, Hurst, Garland, Allen, and Weatherford, but chances are that

TCAP is never far

from your home with one of their MASH-

style travel clinics. “We

understand that people have jobs and cannot

always make the drive to one of our main clinics, so we make ourselves available throughout

Best of Denton County 2019

DFW at local animal shelters and community centers,” says Schumacher.

In addition to providing an invaluable service

to pet owners, the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection strives to provide its support to animal shelters and rescue organizations.

“We truly value these institutions for their

contribution to their communities. We want to be there to help make their rescued animals more adoptable and improve the number of animals they can help as a result,” say

Schumacher. TCAP’s Executive Director goes on to state that the combination of reducing

animal overpopulation and increasing adoption rates can actually lower the cost of city-funded programs and in turn lower the cost to North Texas taxpayers.

If you have a pet that you would like to get sterilized, scheduling an appointment is

easy. You can call TCAP at (940) 566-5551 or visit their website at

www.texasforthem.org and

click “Request Appointment.”

Prices for sterilization begin as low as $35.00. Annual

vaccinations for a dog or cat

can be purchased for $25 on a walk-in basis from 9amnoon at all seven TCAP

locations and 10am-noon at all travel locations.

North Texans can learn

more by visiting TCAP’s website at www.

texasforthem.org.

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Best Animal Non-Profit Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (940) 566-5551 713 Sunset St. • Denton, TX 76201 www.TexasForThem.org

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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Unrivaled care &

compassion

Pets for your

I

by Steve Gamel

It’s not every day that you can find a compassionate and knowledgeable

veterinarian who has lived and worked in the same area for over three

decades. It’s even rarer to find two under one roof.

But that’s exactly what clients of Animal Medical Center of Highland Village and their furry family members are accustomed to with co-owners Dr. Austin Strauch and Dr. Paul McCullough. Dr. Strauch was the first veterinarian in Highland Village in 1984, but seven years later, Dr. McCullough opened his own practice nearby. In 2002, they merged to form the amazing practice you’ve grown to love, and they haven’t looked back.

Together with associates, Dr. Lorien Schoelkopf and Dr. Lauren Carnes, their office was named Best Veterinarian Clinic by Best of Denton County voters.

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

dogs. Dr. Strauch likes more soft tissue surgery “Our compassion and purpose are to solidify and thoroughly enjoys spending more time in the human-animal bond by treating disease, the room touching on the various aspects of a relieving suffering, and easing pain,” pet’s everyday needs for a happy, healthy life,” Dr. McCullough said. “I can speak for all the Dr. McCullough said.” veterinarians here at Animal Dr. Schoelkopf received Medical Center of Highland her Masters in Veterinary All of these Village when I say we truly love Parasitology at Texas A&M services are our patients and their owners.”

University and her Doctorate professionally Dr. Strauch agreed, adding, from Oklahoma State University. done, affordable, Dr. Carnes also received a “I will keep doing this until I’m Masters of Veterinary Physiology physically or mentally unable to and utilize and Pharmacology from Texas do so. I still love coming to work, the latest A&M University before going and it’s because I love to help on to receive her degree in technology and serve people in a profession Veterinary Medicine from the possible. that can touch hearts.” same university.

Animal Medical Center is That level of expertise is head and shoulders above important for any pet lover, many of whom its competitors thanks to the team they’ve can be confused about where to seek care for assembled and their vast array of services, which their pets. range from routine and preventative care with “Education is what is most important,” vaccinations to hospitalization, surgery, radiology, Dr. Strauch said. “We want to educate and dental services, boarding, and so much more. provide options so each client can personally decide the course of action that is best for “I enjoy orthopedics, especially ACL repairs and dealing with structural problems in cats and their pet’s needs.”

Best Veterinary Clinic Animal Medical Center of Highland Village (972) 317-7387 2810 Justin Road Highland Village, TX 75077 www.animalmedicalcenterhv.com

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college counseling & Test Prep

programs

D

that meet your child’s unique needs b

David and Karen Dillard of KD College Prep have seen and worked with every type of student with every type of goal over the last 27 years. How many students is that, you may ask? Oh, around 70,000! That’s a really great number to wrap your brain around, but if you were a student looking to gain an upper hand on college admissions tests while also having the opportunity to eliminate the stress that can come with college planning, wouldn’t you go to KD, too?

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The answer for everyone in Denton County is a resounding yes!

KD College Prep is a wildly-popular local test prep program geared toward helping students of all academic levels achieve their personal maximum scores to reach their college admissions and scholarship goals.

This includes everything from one-on-one tutoring to college admissions essays, PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, and ACT test concepts, workshops, and more. Unlike many programs with cookie-cutter solutions, KD College Prep is relentlessly committed to tailoring its approach to each student’s unique needs.

“We have helped many students with acceptances, meritbased scholarships, and honors programs at elite universities,” David Dillard said.

“But some of the most

rewarding have been those kids who did not think any college dream could be achieved when they first came to us. I cherish the look on their faces as they announce their college acceptances.”

Once the votes were calculated for this year’s Best of Denton County awards, KD College Prep won Student’s Choice Best Tutoring.

Karen and David are natives of the DFW area and products of the local education system.

Their desire to give students a leg up during the most critical time in their academic lives drives everything they do. Every counselor, teacher and team member has worked diligently to make KD College Prep what it is today. They’ve worked with 253 National Merit Semifinalists this year and are responsible for 250+ perfect test scores since 2010.

Over the last four years, their students have earned $50 million in scholarship offers and attend more than 130 colleges.

“Unlike many professionals, we get to see the results of our efforts – at least the initial impact,” David said. “The most rewarding moments are when families track us down at the mall, at the grocery store, or church to tell us about grad school, their first job promotion, or their successful career path. It warms our hearts to share their success.”

Student’s Choice Best Tutoring KD College Prep www.KDCollegePrep.com Flower Mound Campus (214) 285-3500 Coppell Campus (972) 906-8825

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Flavor & Fun

at the Coast

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by Madison Doyle

In just a year the crew at Costa Vida has accomplished so much.

Serving up fresh, Mexican-grilled flavors is the franchise’s model, and the staff go above and beyond that mission every day by creating recipes made from scratch.

The delicious food will hook you, but it’s the caring staff who will keep you coming back again and again.

Originally from California, owner Kyle and his family relocated to bring Costa Vida from the West Coast to Texas. With a large family of his own, Kyle truly values bringing families together at the dinner table. “We are a locally owned and operated restaurant with a family first approach that sets us apart from other chains,” Kyle said.

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Shannon, general manager, and Pono, manager, are the store’s lively power couple. Shannon is the heart of the store with her effervescent personality, and the store couldn’t function without her. “I may not remember your name, but I will remember what you order,” Shannon said, commenting on her unusual, but useful, talent. Shannon’s infectious smile is complemented by Pono’s ever-cool-under-pressure attitude. Pono rises early every morning to make the store’s signature warm and fresh tortillas.

Catering/fundraising manager Renée loves organizing partnerships between Costa Vida and the community. Such partnerships are usually spirit nights, where 20% of the night’s proceeds are donated.

“Last year we gave back more than $3000 to local schools and charities. This year we are set to give back even more,” Renée said. But spirit nights aren’t the only way Costa Vida helps the town.

“Some of our most memorable events have been the Seniors in Motion’s Elite Chef Competition and the LEF Gala.”

The man-behind-the-scenes Luis works hard every day to make fresh, flavorful recipes such as their signature sweet pork. A notable feature of Costa Vida is their gluten-free and vegetarian options, which won them special recognition in Denton’s Best Of competition.

Costa Vida is focused on flavor and service, and each member of the team contributes to the store’s success. With a wide variety of menu options and an emphasis on both customer and community service, Costa Vida is a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

“Although we’ve had a successful first year, we know that we wouldn’t have achieved nearly so much without our loyal customers.” —The staff at Costa Vida See you at the Coast!

Best of Denton County 2019

Best Gluten Free Menu Costa Vida (469) 990-3020 2628 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 110 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.CostaVida.com

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Taking a Leap of

Faith

by Susan Neuhalfen

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Steve Gamel loves to tell a good story. But anyone who knows him will agree he’s usually too busy writing heartwarming tales about local residents and the good deeds of small-business owners to take the time to talk about himself in print.

“And that’s half the battle. The other half

Trust us when we say, though, that his story is

winning content across many industries.

just as worthy of the spotlight.

is making sure the content is engaging and

unique. You want to give people a reason to do business with you.”

Steve added, “If you’re going to go into

business for yourself, go all in. Put your story out there. People will be drawn to it.”

With more than 20 years of writing and

editing experience, Steve has written awardHe has written articles and features for the

Most people don’t know that Steve left a

Denton Record-Chronicle,

dream of owning his own writing and editing

and Dallas Morning

writer for years and was content juggling

He has won awards from

wife and two small children in tow, he took an

Press Sports Editors and

stable job in banking in 2014 to pursue his

Murray Media Group,

business, Edit This®. He had been a freelance

News, among others.

that with his full-time job until one day, with a

both the Associated

uncharacteristic leap of faith.

Texas Associated Press

“I quit the bank and said, ‘Writing is what I’m going to do, and it’s going to work,’” Steve

said while reminiscing about the day he told his wife, Leslie. “Anyone who knows me will

tell you I don’t jump unless there’s a giant net

under me. It was scary; my family was nervous, too. But I didn’t want to look back 20 years

from now and say I’d missed my opportunity.”

And Edit This was born.

Edit This specializes in helping small-business owners come up with the right words to

communicate with customers, spark engagement, build relationships, and, more importantly, tell their story. Steve handles anything involving the written word. It

could be blogs and website copy, content for brochures, property descriptions for realtors, press

releases, ghostwriting and editing

sports writing. And for

three years in a row now,

Edit This has been named Best Writing and

Editing Service and Best Blogger for Best of Denton County.

His clients include banks, lawyers, aviation

experts, architects, up-and-coming novelists, website developers, and a slew

“If you’re going to go into business for yourself, go all in.”

for novelists, and more. In addition to creating the best content for

Internet marketing, he uses the right keywords to help his clients be found first.

“If a customer is looking for your business,

it’s my job to help them find you,” Steve said.

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Managing Editors for his

of small-business owners who

depend on experienced content writers. He’s also local, which

means he knows the area, the

audience, and the competition.

He sets himself apart by meeting in person with business owners to truly understand their unique message.

“I believe I am better at what I

do and more valuable to business owners today because of the

industries I’ve written about and

the fact that I meet with people in

person,” Steve said. “I could tell you everything you want to know about

family law and what real architecture looks like on a custom home — way more than I ever

imagined. Business owners know they need to

masses and may even have ideas about what they want to say. But most don’t have the time to do it themselves or know where to begin. I take those worries off their plate.”

Steve’s wife, Leslie, loves that her husband is doing what he was meant to do. The two of them have been married since 2005 and have two boys, Christian and Jackson.

“I look back at his decision to chase his passion, and he’s happier than he’s ever been,” Leslie said. “I knew he would be successful. It’s fun watching him get so excited about his work.”

Ironically, it was the job he left that helped prepare him for his future as a small-business owner.

The community banking industry taught him about the importance of networking and building relationships. He learned from talking with other business owners about the do’s and don’ts of owning a business. He also saw first-hand the passion with which they ran their companies and saw himself following in their footsteps.

As a result, business owners continue to turn their writing and editing needs over to Edit This to make them look good and create a voice they’ve never had before. For Steve, it’s all about telling a good story. And no matter where his story goes from here, his family will be at his side — with every leap he takes.

“I mean, who quits their job to be a writer?

But it worked, and Leslie was my rock since Day 1,” Steve said. “I love living and working in Denton County, especially when I can be close to my family.”

Best Blogger & Best Writing & Editing Service Edit This ® (469) 360-3611 steve@editthisllc.com www.EditThisLLC.com Edit This

have a consistent message getting out to the

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We

Love to

Tattoo

by Betty Hilliard

R

Red leather sofas and chandeliers.

This is not what most people expect to see when they walk into a tattoo studio. However, at Dark Age Tattoo Studio, that is exactly what clients will find.

Plus, they will be greeted by a friendly team of talented tattoo artists and apprentices.

become internationally known for its quality, custom tattoo designs.

The studio, which has 18 artists, six apprentices, and the studio manager, is known for the large variety of work they do, and they maintain that reputation by hiring only the best artists. Before joining the studio, Rember and Francisco work hard to make sure new artists are a good match for their team. Potential artists are invited to do several guest spots at the studio over a few months. This gives the owners an opportunity to review the artists’ work and see how they interact with clients and the rest of the team.

Creating amazing art might be what Dark Age Tattoo Studio is known for, but they also enjoy creating joy for people in their community.

The team participates in local food drives, hurricane relief efforts and toy drives. “Last year, we donated over 5,000 toys for children in need,” said Kelly Graff, the studio manager. Additionally, they recently awarded a scholarship to an art student at UNT. Whether creating small tattoos for walk-in clients or large, custom tattoos, the artists at Dark Age Tattoo Studio are passionate about their craft.

Ensuring they have a top-notch team in place translates to happy clients. “Our artists meet with clients to discuss their vision,” explains Rember.

“Next, the artist draws a sketch of the tattoo.”

The actual tattoo work does not begin until both the client and the artist are happy with the sketch. “A lot of planning goes into each tattoo,” continues Rember.

Team members often travel around the country to seminars and conventions where they learn the latest techniques or showcase their work. At these events, their work garners a lot of attention and wins numerous awards. Between their showcases, awards and global social media reach, the studio brings in clients from around the world.

Best Tattoo Studio Dark Age Tattoo (940) 898-8200 124 W. Oak St. Denton, TX 76201 www.DarkAgeTattooStudio.com

After working together in the past, owners, Rember Orellana and Francisco Sanchez, decided to team up and open their own studio. Dark Age Tattoo Studio opened on the Denton Square in 2014, and since it’s opening, the studio has

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Pictured above is the Skidmore family starting from the left is their son Nathan, Kim and Christopher Skidmore.

Pictured below is Nathan Dean who was Voted Best Color Specialist in Denton County.

Go BIG or Go Home

With a New Location in the Wings, Cloud 9 Salon & Spa is on Another Level

by Steve Gamel

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K

Kim Cloud Skidmore couldn’t tell you how or why the thought popped into her head.

It was a weekend evening, and she and husband, Christopher, were enjoying a dinner date at Marty B’s in Bartonville – talking about everything except work. But once they hit the parking lot, it hit her.

“I see this piece of land next to Marty B’s. I turned to Christopher and said, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool to move the salon out here?’

It was a random thing,” said Kim, owner of Cloud 9 Salon & Spa. “But then he says, ‘Well, why don’t you?’”

looking around for something else, those owners changed their mind and entered into negotiations. Kim and Nathan can’t help but laugh as renderings for the salon get bigger and more detailed as they continue hashing out ideas and options.

With that being said, it’s difficult not to get wrapped up in the excitement of the move.

The existing space is 8,200 square feet.

The new one being designed by Scott Arbuckle of GHA Architects is approximately 10,000 square feet and will incorporate a healthy mix of traditional open stations and private rooms for their stylists and guests.

The entire facility has a modern look with better lighting, a patio area for employees, bigger office space, a cleaner design, and more soundproofing for a quieter feel.

“Nothing is changing with our services … it just gets better,” Kim said. “Christopher drew the entire interior of the salon, and it’s been fun to bounce ideas off him and have that support.

It’s a family deal, and our entire team knows and is incredibly excited.”

“We are going to be the new thing in town again,”

That was in July. Kim not only took Christopher up on his suggestion, but she is now less than a year away from catapulting what is already the most popular salon and spa in Denton County – complete with every beautifying and relaxing service under the sun – to another level with the grand opening of the new location.

By the time Lantana Living magazine caught up with Kim in early May, she had purchased the piece of land, which sits in a prime spot near Marty B’s roughly six miles west of her current salon on FM 407. The plan is to break ground as soon as the current salon sells, and while they continue to go over artist renderings to fine-tune the ultimate experience, she wants to make sure everyone knows the existing salon is business as usual.

That’s good news for Cloud 9 clients, who for 28 years have turned to Kim’s team for everything from color and innovative cuts to special occasion styles, nails, waxing, all facial services, last extensions, brow blading, and massages. The atmosphere downstairs is upbeat and friendly, and upstairs in the spa, it’s as if you’ve entered another world.

It’s quiet and soothing but with the same commitment to customer service experienced throughout the entire salon. www.BestofDentonCounty.com

And if that weren’t enough, Cloud 9 has endeared itself as the perfect community partner with Cloud 9 Charities, which holds events that raise money for Bedtime Rescue, a homeless program that houses our community’s homeless.

Kim’s son, Nathan Dean, was voted Best Individual Color Specialist in this year’s Best of Denton County awards. He manages and partners in the day-to-day operations of the salon and couldn’t agree more with what Kim says.

“We are going to be the new thing in town again,” he said.

The move makes sense for a variety of reasons. The current salon at 1651 Justin Road sits back a bit from the road and has slowly become hidden by other businesses.

The new location is frontage property, granting instant visibility in an area that is expected to see a dramatic influx of residential and commercial properties over the next few years. Cloud 9 will also be a stone’s throw from Marty B’s, a wildly popular spot for families, residents, and visitors to hang out.

“We did so many studies – what’s coming in terms of homes, the value here versus the value there, what the move will mean for our girls who are building their businesses, and the fact that most of our clients are already out that direction,” Kim said. “Taking all that and more into consideration, we felt moving west was the best option for everyone.”

When Kim and Christopher first looked into that piece of land, the owner said it wasn’t for sale. But after a few months of

“We asked our team what they would do differently,” Kim said. “From lighting to the layout of stations, private rooms, positioning, and size, we considered it all. We’ve tried to think of everything.”

On top of that, Marty B’s has leased a portion of the space for a coffee shop and bakery called Cowboy Coffee.

“To have this opportunity to go play with Marty is incredible,” Nathan said. “Everything he touches turns to gold, and he’s a great guy.

From the moment we decided to do this, it’s incredible to see how it’s all fallen into place.”

Proving once again that Cloud 9 will always be on another level.

“If you’re going to do something, do it right,” Kim said. “Don’t mess around, and have fun with it!”

Best Color Specialist Nathan Dean with Cloud 9 Salon (972) 317-4384 1651 Justin Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.Cloud9Salon.com Best of Denton County 2019

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A Special Thanks F rom A mber M ichelle S alon

T

Thank you to all who voted to make us Denton County’s Best Women’s Salon for the third year in a row!

We could not get to this point without our amazing devoted clients. Because of you and our incredible team of stylists, we have surpassed all of the goals we have set for our team.

Our stylists are professionally trained in all the services we offer, such as makeup, hair color, cutting, tape-in extensions, and more.

We pride ourselves in providing the best services to our clients and increasing our own skills through continued education.

In order to maintain excellent quality, we use Oribe, Moroccan Oil Hair Care, and Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup. We know we’ve done our job right when you leave feeling as gorgeous as you look.

After finishing cosmetology school, I furthered my education through work experience and advanced training. Fast forward 10 years, my husband, D.J., and

I decide to open our own salon with the purpose of bringing happiness and beauty to our hometown and growing area of Flower Mound, Texas. After three years of business, we decided we had outgrown our space and expanded the salon to a location twice the size. By having myself as the owner and a full-time stylist and my husband as the man behind the scenes, we have combined our focus for family and community.

Not only have we built a successful business from the ground up, but we are also extremely proud to support amazing nonprofits, such as Wigs for Kids, who create wigs from donated hair for children who have lost their hair due to illnesses.

My family and I want to be remembered for all we have done for the community.

Keep up with our hair transformations on Instagram and Facebook @AmberMichelleSalon and Pinterest @AmberMichelleTeam! We can’t wait for you to visit our talented stylists and myself for all of your hair needs!

Best Eyelash Extensions & Best Women’s Salon Amber Michelle Salon (972) 691-9500 2500 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 140 & 160 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.AmberMichelleSalon.com lashbyambermichelle.com 78 |

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F rom lash

by Amber M ichelle

W

We are honored to have been awarded Denton County’s Best Eyelash Extensions!

At LASH By Amber Michelle, we offer everything from eyelash extensions and lift and tints, to facial waxing and brow tints. Since opening in the Lakeside area in May of 2019, we have successfully prioritized our clients’ lashes, our lash artists’ education, and our community outreach.

After the Amber Michelle Salon expanded to a new suite just a few doors down, we opened LASH at the previous location. With seven rooms, we have been able to exceed expectations and provide quality lash and brow services to all our clients. By partnering with Bella Lash, Oribe, and Moroccan Oil, we always ensure our clients receive the best value.

Even as a newer business, we constantly look for areas where we can support nonprofits, such as Wands for Wildlife, who has given us the opportunity to donate used mascara wands which they use to brush baby orphan wildlife while nursing them back to health.

We consistently live by the mission to treat others as we would want to be treated.

Check out our lash love on Instagram and Facebook @LASHByAmberMichelle! We look forward to making all your lash and brow goals come true! facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Friendship

W h e r e Passio n C ombi n e s W ith

“Last year was amazing, and to be able to do it again is so exciting, especially with all the new residents moving into the county.” One of the biggest reasons they’re able to give their clients beautiful hair is their dedication to keeping up to date on current trends and fashions.

Another key to their success is the enjoyment that they get from hair styling. “Going to work doesn’t feel like work when you truly love what you do and you get to do it with your best friends every day while making new ones with all our clients.” is how Shauna and Kendra explain it. It is easy for them to put their heart and soul into their work when it is something, they are so passionate about.

When you walk into the salon the first thing you notice is the casual and comfortable atmosphere, and the welcoming laid-back approach to hairstyling. They try to make sure that everyone is comfortable and that they enjoy their time at the salon. It is evident even in the small details, like the hot towel hand massage you receive when they are washing your hair, that they are committed to you not only looking great when you leave, but also feeling great as well. This plays a big part as to why they are considered the best in Denton County.

Shauna and Kendra enjoy spending time with their husbands and children as well as staying active in their church and community when not at the salon working hard to make their customers feel special and beautiful. Shauna is from Tennessee and Kendra grew up right here in DFW. It should be noted that Shauna loves it here and has quickly adopted DFW as her home stating that “Texas is better!”

F

From the time they were both small girls Shauna McCabe and Kendra Schmidt dreamed of owning a salon, a place where they could combine their passion for making women feel beautiful and special and their desire to be part of the community. What seemed like a dream 14 years ago when they first started doing hair has now become one of Denton County’s most successful and thriving salons.

Shauna and Kendra help others by offering salon services that customers are truly satisfied with, something that they are passionate about. Thanks to their commitment to continuous learning Salon Sage won Best of Denton County four years in a row, 2013-2016, was a Top 3 contender in 2017 and took the crown again in 2018 and 2019. “It’s very flattering,” Shauna said.

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

The salon is a place where these two have the privilege of helping women feel beautiful, important, and confident. Salon Sage is Shauna and Kendra’s dream come true and they are committed to ensuring that all women who take advantage of their services also have their dream of looking and feeling their best come true as well.

Best Hair Stylist Shauna McCabe with Salon Sage (972) 849-6213 3301 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 145 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.SalonSage.co Best of Denton County 2019

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b est Denton County’s

vein clinic

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by Steve Gamel

When a patient seeks relief from the embarrassment of varicose veins or painful symptoms such as swelling and heaviness in their legs, they’ve never had to look further than Dr. Robert Handley and his team at Flower Mound Vein Center.

Over the last eight years, the practice has become known for its state-ofthe-art vein procedures and office-based lab that gives them the ability to schedule patients sooner than at a hospital. Dr. Handley develops a customized treatment plan with your input and performs most treatments on consecutive days using RF ablation, Varithena, and sclerotherapy — all with little to no scarring and minimal downtime.

Simply put, they know veins. They can treat everything from symptomatic and unsightly varicose veins and spider veins to working compassionately with patients who suffer from uterine fibroids and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Many women opt for UFE if they cannot take off from work for six weeks, as is usually the case with a hysterectomy. The recovery time for UFE is approximately five days, and all patients go home the same day of the procedure.

“We treat a lot of women here for varicose veins and uterine fibroids, but many patients are former or current smokers or people with diabetes and are experiencing PAD symptoms such as wounds that are not healing and pain in their legs when walking,” Dr. Handley said. “The public should know 80 |

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that many amputations could be prevented with treatment of PAD. Our clinic offers better personal service and a more streamlined process than going to a hospital.”

He added, “We are constantly looking to expand the clinic to offer additional treatments.”

Now is a great time to get your procedures done before insurance benefits start over in the new year. Dr. Handley works under the name North Texas Fibroids (for uterine fibroid patients) and North Texas Endovascular (for PAD).

Dr. Handley also owns The Skin Fix Med Spa, which was voted Best Endermologie for 2019. The med spa is one of the few places in DFW that offers Endermologie, a well known French cellulite treatment. You can buy a 12 session package for $540. They are also offering Lumecca IPL facials for $150 and Votiva vaginal rejuvenation for $1,500 (3 treatments reg. $2800).

Votiva is the newest treatment to help women with leakage issues.

For more information on Flower Mound Vein Center, visit www.flowermoundveins.com or call (972) 410-5757.

Best Beauty Endermologie Flower Mound Vein Center (972) 410-5757 4921 Long Prairie Rd., Flower Mound, TX 75028 FlowerMoundVeins.com

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and the Lash Lounge. Yvonne and her staff have a continued goal of providing superior service and helping guests feel beautiful, confident, and

Superior

cared for.

“No two individual lashes are the same width or length, so it is imperative to apply an extension that will not damage the integrity of the natural lash,” Yvonne said. With this in mind, the Lash Lounge now offers a wider variety of lash

O

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to providing quality customer care. Yvonne Hemphill and her team at the Lash Lounge go above and beyond to exceed the expectations of their customers.

extension width, length, and curl type.

by Brooke Ezzo and new services to their menu. Eyebrow Microblading and Hybrid and Mega Volume lashes are now available to all guests. Talented stylists are trained to truly customize all lash services to each customer.

“We consult with our guest to create each volume fan by hand for our Hybrid and Volume lash services,” Yvonne

“Being voted in

said. “Pre-made fans

the Top 3 of The

have very limited sizes

Best of Denton

available for use, so

County reaffirms our commitment to excellent customer service and technical quality,” Yvonne said.

Because of the continued support and growing customer base, the salon has been able to add more stylists

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

it can be damaging to the natural lashes if the incorrect size is applied.”

Many competing salons do not have the advanced training or technical skills to make customized volume fans by hand. This is a key

Membership options for Hybrid and Volume services will be added, which will complement the current program for Classic lashes.

The programs provide discounts on all lash refill services, 10% off products, and other services provided and service upgrades.

After 20 years as an education manager for a retail hair salon chain and two years at the Lash Lounge Corporate office as Vice President of Operations, Yvonne knows a thing or two about listening to her customers and creating a unique and memorable experience. The team at the Lash Lounge is once again humbly grateful.

“We believe our customers ‘vote’ for us every day when they choose us as their service provider and refer their friends to us,” said Yvonne.

Top 3 Best Eyelash Extensions The Lash Lounge (972) 808-5274 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 830 Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.TheLashLounge.com

differentiator between them

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A Little Piece of

country

heaven

by Steve Gamel

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When Bob Brawley moved to Southern California 15 years ago to further his horseback riding career, he had no idea he’d wind up meeting his future wife. And, in an ironic twist, it turned out she actually knew quite a bit about this total stranger.

and, though she hadn’t met Bob or his family, she was well aware of how well-respected the Brawley name was throughout the equestrian world.

In fact, ever since she was 17, she had been riding horses at Blue Fox Farm, a sales barn located in Escondido, California.

Bob is the oldest of four siblings and grew up

scenic trails, the farm includes a large covered

doing every farmhand job imaginable, from

arena that is directly accessible to the barn,

feeding animals to cleaning horse stalls, bailing

an outside derby field with natural jumps, and

hay, driving tractors, doing irrigation work, and

ample turnout paddocks. They offer a lesson

even picking rocks. Naturally, the jobs got more

program for riders who do not own their own

difficult as he got older, and if it took two or

horse, junior and amateur hunter, jumper, and

three of them to complete a task, then that’s

equitation training for all levels of competition,

what they’d do – no questions asked.

exceptional full-service equine boarding and training for competition horses, and more.

As the story goes, Dana Brawley was an accomplished rider, too,

With more than 17 acres of lush pastures and

The only equipment a new rider needs is a pair of snug fitting jeans and closed-toe shoes with a heel

The sales barn accepted horses from all over the country, but Dana preferred to ride horses that came from Brawley Farms in Oregon.

“We liked it; we never felt overworked,” Bob said. “My dad made it really fun, even if it was a

But what’s most inspiring is

chore that had to be done. As much as I loved

that when Bob and Dana first

the farm, though, my true passion was riding.

purchased the property, all

My dad has always been a do-it-all kind of guy,

that was there was the house and the lake; the rest of it was open fields. Everything you see today was built and designed

by Bob and Dana. And they literally thought of everything

and he used to help my mom with the horse shows in the summer. When I was 16, he said he wasn’t going to do that anymore and that it was going to be my job. I drove the horses, the equipment, and did everything I needed to do to make it work.”

… from a massive observation

Bob boasts more than 30 years of experience

room for guests to a fully-

on the hunter jumper circuit and is known for

stocked equipment room.

his classic style, quality horsemanship, and

In addition to supplying saddles,

unwavering attention to detail.

bridles, and helmets, Brawley

Part of his rise to popularity

photography by David Erdek Photography

Farms owns six lesson

was because of that

“If it was a horse from Bob Brawley, then I

horses that are available to

move to California, which

wanted it,” Dana said with a laugh. “Who knew

lesson program riders.

we’d meet 15 years later? Now, I am a Brawley.

Nancy and Kenny Nordstrom, our mutual friends, introduced us, and we never looked back.”

Bob agreed in his soft-spoken yet engaging voice.

“It’s quite a story,” he said with a smile.

It’s been quite the fulfilling journey for Bob and Dana Brawley, who have now been married for nine years. They relocated to

allowed him to compete in horse shows nearly every week

The only equipment a new rider

due to their close proximity to

needs is a pair of snug fitting

his stable in Del Mar.

jeans and closed-toe shoes

It’s a life he takes pride in and

with a heel.

wouldn’t trade for anything,

“Until you arrive on site and tour

especially after relocating to

our facility, you don’t realize the

Texas. And with Dana by his side,

full scope of what we offer,”

what they’ve created here is like

Dana said. “Bob did a great job

heaven on earth.

thinking of literally everything.”

“It’s a little piece of heaven here,” Bob said

Double Oak in 2011 and eventually built what

Bob said it was important to him to follow in the

while staring lovingly at Dana. “You really do

is now the third Brawley Farms location in the

footsteps of his parents.

feel like you’re in the country.”

United States. The farm that started it all is in Jefferson, Oregon and was built in 1974 by Bob’s parents, Tom and Judy. His sister, who lives in Portland, runs the second stable. This latest piece of country heaven, located off Simmons Road across the street from Lantana, has quickly

“Like any business, you change with the times.

But our basic design and business model is the

Brawley Farms (760) 801-6655 200 Simmons Rd. Double Oak, TX 75077 www.BrawleyFarmsInc.com

that worked for my parents, so why change it?

It’s served us well over the years.”

endeared itself to both riding and non-riding

He added, “I’m a farm boy born and raised,” he

residents as an equestrian’s dream.

said. “Not many people can say that anymore.”

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Best Equestrian Stables

same as it was in 1974,” Bob said. “It’s a model

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Making S

Several years ago, a client sheepishly approached Jesse James Leyva, owner of Jesse James Fit in Flower Mound, Texas, to ask a favor. Inside the Jesse James fit studio is a large wall, full of photos of clients who have competed in various bodybuilding and fitness shows. The wall of photos grows every year.

The photos are for everyone to see—like a wall of fame—and the men and women pictured are beautifully sculpted. Everyone loves the display, and this particular client wanted to be a part of it.

“I remember him telling me, ‘I don’t want to do a show, but it’s a goal of mine to get on that wall!’ I thought that was an awesome idea.

From that point on, you didn’t have to be a competitor to get on the wall,” replied Leyva.

Leyva then helped his client work toward (and achieve) the goal of joining the rest of the fit bodies featured on the wall.

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Over the years, getting on “the wall” has become a goal for many of the clients at Jesse James Fit. Leyva and his personal trainers work hard to make that a reality for those who want it.

“We train a variety of clients from husbands and wives, even a mom and her two sons,” Leyva said with a smile. “These are regular people who make big changes. I get goosebumps every time I think about it.”

Leyva is candid about the fact that he grew up the son of a single mom in a poor family.

They lived in a rough part of Los Angeles.

After struggling with these difficulties, Jesse moved to Texas in 1996. Here he found his passion for fitness.

Leyva combined his love for athletics and fitness and began bodybuilding, competing in shows across the country. He also wanted to help others as well, so he started his first gyms, opening Nu Body Gym and then Texas Sports Club. He continued bodybuilding, earning the title Mr. Texas in 2010 and placing in the top five nationally. facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

After years of experience with bodybuilding and working with other people toward meeting their fitness goals, Leyva took his strengths and passion to create Jesse James Fit in 2007. Jesse James Fit is now celebrating its 12 year anniversary!

Jesse James Fit is a 7,700 square foot personal training studio that focuses on all things fitness related. It offers weight loss programs, boot camps, individualized training, group training, couples training, youth programs, senior programs, military prep training, and transformation challenges.

Leyva opened the fitness studio with the goal of being different from the big box fitness centers surrounding him. He wanted to create a safe environment for people dedicated to making big changes in their lives. He knew he could make a place where they would feel comfortable doing so.

Individualized training with a focus on family fitness was at the heart of this new venture.

Unlike typical gyms, everyone at Jesse James Fit is paired with a trainer. Those trainers share the same core values that Leyva has, and they are in it for the long haul. Some trainers even left corporate America to pursue their passion and make a career in fitness.

The staff attitude of inclusiveness, respect, and good old-fashioned hard work has helped Jesse James Fit become a trendsetter in the fitness industry. Leyva and his team earn multiple awards year after year—including those from our loyal Best of Denton County voters.

For the past eight years in a row, Jesse James Fit has won Best Personal Trainer, Best Personal Training Facility, and Best Weight Loss Center for Denton County. They just won all three honors again for 2019.

At this rate, he may need another big wall for more client success stories. “I never thought I’d have this many cool stories come out of my fitness facilities,” Leyva said. “Looking at the wall of photos sometimes others see someone up there and think, ‘Oh, that guy’s just lucky.’

They don’t know the story behind the guy in the photo or his journey to accomplish the 35-pound weight loss and the fit physique displayed. Or the lady who lost 60 pounds, got off medications, and gave it her all for weeks and weeks, with sweat and tears to overcome her obstacles. These people weren’t perfect or lucky; they worked hard and persevered through the tough workouts. We’re happy to be able to offer the atmosphere to help them accomplish their goals.”

Congratulations to Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp for another year of Best of Denton County honors!

In 2014, Leyva launched a sister company, Outlaw FitCamp. And it just won 2019 Best Indoor Bootcamp in Denton County—for the fourth year in a row.

Outlaw FitCamp offers a variety of services such as FitCamp group classes, personal training for individuals, group fitness training, and VIP coaching. It serves clients at all different fitness levels—regardless of age, size, shape, or goals. It doesn’t serve a particular demographic.

Men, women, families, companies, seniors, couples—all are among Outlaw FitCamp’s clients.

Leyva and his wife, Tiffany, have worked hard to develop, revise, and tweak not only the Outlaw FitCamp business plan, but its unique training system as well. After working on refining the business model for several years, they decided it was time to grow. In 2018 they opened Outlaw FitCamp for franchise opportunity. In this short time, they already have six new franchise locations and ten more are on the way!

Already up and running are FitCamp locations in McKinney, Flower Mound, Hickory Creek, and Little Elm. Newly opened Plano and Keller. Ten more have been purchased and are in the works. Because they’ve developed such an amazing training system and put their expertise and complete support behind their franchise owners, the growth has been phenomenal.

One thing that differentiates Leyva’s fitness companies from others is the emphasis he puts on hiring only the best certified personal trainers. The trainers at all Outlaw FitCamp locations and Jesse James Fit are the best of the best. They only hire top certified trainers with clean backgrounds and then thoroughly train them on the Outlaw FitCamp style and in safe exercise form.

Then they work to retain these top-notch trainers. In 2016 Leyva introduced a new adjustable-tiered salary structure for his employees that creates a team culture for success. That’s practically unheard of in the fitness industry. Jesse James Fit was the first in the country to do a salary-based structure for personal trainers. And in 2017 Jesse James Fit began offering health insurance for their employees. “We are a big family,” Leyva said.

Best Indoor Bootcamp, Best Personal Trainer, Best Personal Training Facility and Best Weight Loss Center Jesse James Fit • Outlaw Fitcamp (972) 355-2639 1001 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 1200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Even with Leyva’s positive outlook and optimism, the growth and development of Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp have surpassed his expectations. www.BestofDentonCounty.com

JesseJamesFit.com • OutlawFitcamp.com

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Storyteller Visual

by Brooke Ezzo

W

With over 20 years of marketing and graphic design experience, Susie Carter knows a thing or two about telling a good story.

Susie Carter is owner and president of Mixed Media Creations, an international award-winning branding agency. She founded the full-service marketing and design studio in 2007 with the belief that traditional agencies were often missing the foundational elements of real customer service, deep client partnerships, and an empowering workplace.

“I have a knack for unearthing what clients really need,” Susie said. “I’m great at listening and coming up with solutions clients haven’t considered.”

“To create imagery and messaging to communicate in the most impactful ways,” Susie said.

When it comes to business, innovative marketing is everything. It is what we see, what we read, and what we hear, and you only have a few seconds to grab the attention of your audience. Mixed Media Creations is passionate about launching and supporting brands; they understand unique markets and develop a complete strategy to power your organization forward.

“We are able to work strategically behind the scenes for many corporate clients to expand their internal marketing capabilities,” Susie said. “This allows clients to scale and flex according to their needs.”

MMC works in a variety of ways including; complete branding packages, web development, video production, and creative combinations of marketing services. When asked what she was most passionate about professionally, Susie said being able to tell people’s stories.

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Susie and her team’s ability to strategize and make innovative connections has positioned Mixed Media Creations as an industry leader.

They have earned numerous prestigious awards and recognition for their creative marketing campaigns and philanthropic efforts.

She strives to instill a culture of positivity, gratitude, generosity, and collaboration in the community. Along with her impressive list of national and international awards, Susie is deeply rooted in the community. She is an active member in many local and national business associations, serves on several boards and committees regarding education, and is passionate about making the world a better place.

“I am so grateful to be part of this supportive

Best Graphic Design & Best Public Relations Firm Mixed Media Creations (972) 221-1600 2300 Rockbrook Dr. Lewisville, TX 75067 www.MixedMediaCreations.com

and amazing community,” Susie said.

Best of Denton County 2019

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A Grand I

Home for the

Arts

by Brooke Ezzo

In the heart of Old Town Lewisville nuzzled between Main and Church streets you’ll find the Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater (MCL Grand). The MCL Grand made its debut in January of 2011, and since then has hosted numerous events showcasing some of the best in the art world.

This incredible facility features a 296-seat performance hall, a 160-seat black box theater, large recital hall, art gallery, and several multipurpose classrooms. From singer/ songwriters, to comedians, to ballet, and displayed artwork, the MCL Grand is home to a melting pot of talent for our community.

“We’ve hosted a lot of incredible artists on our stages,” said Denise Helbing, Arts Center Manager. “We love being the local destination for experiencing arts of all kinds.

My message to all Denton County residents is that you don’t have to go far from home to experience great art.”

...over 300 public events each year,

Visitors to the MCL Grand can enjoy an array of events, including several of the theater’s own “presenting” series: Texas Tunes, a concert series highlighting artists with ties to the Lone Star State; the Black Box Songwriter Series, which shines a light on incredible songwriters; MCL Grand presents Comedy, a series featuring stand-up, improv, sketch comedy, and more; and the Lewisville Talks - City Speaker Series, which brings national influencers to Lewisville to discuss current events and trends.

The MCL Grand houses over 300 public events each year, many of which feature local performing arts organizations. Any given year, you may see performances by groups

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

like the Lewisville Lake Symphony, LakeCities Ballet Theatre, Our Productions Theatre Co., and music promoter PipoProductions, among others.

Helbing has managed the MCL Grand since 2017, during which time she has not only seen its performance series continue to grow, but the installation of public art surrounding the building as well.

“In addition to what you find at our center, there are quite a few ways to experience arts and culture throughout the Old Town Lewisville area, including several new permanent public art pieces. We encourage everyone coming to our theater to take a stroll and experience all that Old Town has to offer,” said Helbing.

Best Place for Live Music Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater (972) 219-8446 100 N. Charles St. Lewisville, TX 75057 www.MCLGrand.com

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Holistic Journey A

L

by Betty Hilliard

Linda Thaten and her daughter, Mindy Coin, know a thing or two about running businesses. Linda and her husband owned and operated a commercial contracting company in the Denton area for more than 45 years.

During that time, she also operated several other businesses including a catering company and a children’s clothing boutique. Mindy, who was brought up working in the family businesses, was an independent hair stylist for 21 years. Now, the women own Nature’s Mercantile + CBD Store.

In fact, they own three stores – two of them in Denton.

Of all of the businesses she has owned, Linda says this one is the most fun. “Getting to meet new customers every day and hearing the stories of how our products have helped them never gets old,” said Linda.

“And, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a happy customer.”

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Linda contacted the chemist that manufactured the product she was using with a list of questions. Ultimately, she could not overlook the positive effects of the product, and Linda wanted to share that with others.

Linda and Mindy opened their first store in Hurst in 2017 followed by two stores in Denton in 2018 and 2019. They have plans to open a fourth store in Richardson in the next few months. The mother/ daughter duo believes their success comes from the combination of offering quality products and excellent customer service.

“We want our customers to feel comfortable in our stores,” Mindy said. “We want them to feel like they can talk to us so we can help them find the right solutions.” Customers come in looking for relief from stress, anxiety or inflammation.

Some customers drive over an hour to come to Nature’s Mercantile + CBD Store because they receive compassionate service with a smile and sometimes even a hug.

At the stores, customers will find American Shaman CBD products, the same products Linda used during her cancer treatments.

American Shaman CBD products are known for their quality, effectiveness and the science behind them.

To Linda and Mindy running their stores is not just a job, helping customers and educating people about the benefits of CBD products is their passion.

Best Natural Organic Store Nature’s Mercantile + CBD Store (940) 999-4365 2038 W. University Denton, TX 76201 www.NaturesCBDMercantile.com

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For forty-five years, Ehrhart’s Jewelers has done everything from simple repairs to designing and creating extraordinary, custom pieces of fine jewelry, and Annette still considers owning a jewelry store the best job in the world.

4 5 Y ears of

Personal Service

G

by Betty Hilliard

Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, Annette Ehrhart certainly didn’t think she would end up in Denton, Texas. “I guess I just grew where I was planted,” said the owner of Ehrhart’s Jewelers.

Annette came to Denton to attend TWU, and while in school, she helped a family friend at an Indian Jewelry show. At that show, she met her future husband Jack Ehrhart, a jewelry designer.

Soon, Annette and Jack were attending jewelry shows together, and in 1975, they put down roots and opened their own store in Denton. Together,

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

The industry is always changing. New gems are still being discovered, and gems that customers are familiar with are being found in new parts of the world.

Ehrhart’s Jewelers has proudly served three generations of customers. “It is incredibly rewarding to know that so many families have trusted us through the years,” said Annette.

they built and grew their business by making the customers their number one priority. “In the beginning, we often joked that first we said yes to whatever the customers asked of us. Then, we figured out how to make the request happen,” laughs Annette.

The entire team at Ehrhart’s Jewelers has a knack of genuinely listening to customers. Whether it is assisting customers in finding the perfect piece for a special occasion or helping them discover a way to repurpose and redesign a family heirloom, the jewelers take great pride in their ability to think outside the box while providing excellent customer service.

Customers often return because they appreciate feeling listened to but never feeling pressured to stretch beyond their budget.

“Nothing makes our team happier than seeing a customer’s face when we have restored a family heirloom or made the ring of their dreams.”

When she is not at the store, you will find Annette enjoying time with her five grown children and 16 grandchildren. She is also active in her church and supports several local, nonprofit organizations and educational groups.

Forty-five years in business is a big milestone for any company, and Annette is truly looking forward to celebrating the store’s 50th anniversary in a few years.

Best Gold & Silver Exchange & Best Jewelry Store - Consignment Ehrhart’s Jewelers (940) 382-5454 260 S I-35E, Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76205 www.EhrhartJewelers.com

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Friends

M

May I introduce to you the bank that Denton County has known for over 135 years: PointBank – A People Bank, and a REAL community supporter.

Throughout their nine branches, PointBank employees are always there to greet you

with a “Good morning, good morning!” and at the top, the David family runs a show

built on customer service and community involvement that never goes out of style.

“Real” is a genuinely important term to

PointBank President Ray David, Jr., because

authenticity breeds meaningful relationships and so much potential for local growth.

He sums it up: “When your bank truly

cares about your security, your community

organizations’ success, your ‘day in the life’ of Denton County, that care translates into real development.”

More than a century ago, their leaders taught their band to play a song that

reverberates through Denton County’s infrastructure today: REAL bank, REAL

people. To add gain to the reverb, PointBank punctuates the REAL refrain with REAL Free Checking and REAL fast loan decisions. And

their customer following boasts some heavy hitters in the business world who are ready to sing the bank’s praises.

“I saw Ray David at a big function; he had a table where they were contributing to

our community, and that’s what I like about

PointBank.” Ray Bowens, owner of Kwik Kar Vista Ridge in Lewisville, sounded off.

“I go to a PointBank breakfast; I see them at chamber meetings…”

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at p o i n t b a n k

REAL

Get By With A Little Help From Your

Alice Masciarelli of Denton Community Health Clinic echoes Bowens: “I love their monthly breakfasts; there’s time for each of us to talk about what’s coming up or what’s changed…no other bank does that.

They know what’s going on in the community; they’re a true community bank.”

PointBank hosts monthly business breakfasts at their branches to give local business owners the chance to network for free, and engage in consummate presentations meant to bolster their industry savvy. This quality interaction won PointBank the 2019 award for Best of Denton County Business Networking, in addition to Best Personal Finance Bank, Best Student Bank, and Best Business Bank.

Referencing her business loan, Kim Cloud Skidmore of Cloud 9 Salon & Spa vocalizes a familiar theme: “I was so impressed with the process. I was given my list in the beginning, I got all that together, and they stuck to that.”

“That’s my cue,” Jonathan David, Chief Lending Officer for PointBank, introduces himself, and his grin is guaranteed to raise a smile. “We know the Denton County economy, so we can pull the information for your loan decision faster than a financial institution that doesn’t.”

I’m starting to realize how many stories are inside of this bank’s lobby, as though I could drop a record needle and hear genuine, heartfelt lyrics of so many lives in our neighborhood. Like the songwriters that connect with us so personally, PointBank cares about knowing your title, your stanzas, your highs and lows, your REAL story. They’ll never stand up and walk out on you. In our county, we get by with a little help from our friends.

Best of Denton County 2019

Real Bank “PointBank takes the stuffiness out of banking! We love having a personal relationship with The PointBank Team.”

— Stacey Mahieu, Bistecca & Salerno’s Pizza Company “PointBank makes banking easy, It’s a local bank with local roots that is tied in with local businesses.”

— Max Miller, The Cross Timbers Gazette “I am blessed to have such an amazing relationship with Ray and the staff at PointBank.

I can’t imagine banking anywhere else. They are good people who go above and beyond for us everyday.

Point Bank is a very important partner for us at Ranch Hand Rescue.

Thank you for all you do for us and for our community.”

— Robert F. Williams, Ranch Hands Rescue I’ve known the David family for as long as I can remember, and they are a true representation of what community banking is all about. And it’s not just them; their employees are just as giving and don’t think twice when it comes to stepping out on a limb for their customers and neighbors. It’s just the right way to do business and it’s not going unnoticed.

— Jill Jester, Minor & Jester, PC facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Real People “We believe our community businesses should bank with community banks, especially when they provide all of the services you need!”

— Mike Winburn, Win Kids Sports & Learning Center “PointBank is incredible to work with, we are so fortunate to bank with them as they truly are amazing at what they do and sure do make bantking so easy.”

— Henry Wall, Fat Cow BBQ “Talk about a contrast [with] someone who knows you when you walk in there, what you’re doing… that means they’ve got some staff that are sticking around.”

— Dr. Filippo Masciarelli

Real

Free Checking

Fast Loan Decisions

“Honestly, I can’t imagine banking anywhere else. Why would I go anywhere and feel like a stranger?

It just doesn’t seem right.”

— Ken Currin, Greenhouse

“In 2015 my company rapidly expanded and I needed a business loan. Point Bank moved fast, they learned about my business and everything was expedited smoothly. I could not have gotten this from another bank.”

— Jesse Leyva, Jesse James Fit

“PointBank is person/business/ non-profit-friendly. It’s there to meet our needs, and that’s the way it should be.”

— Alice Masciarelli “I have used PointBank for over 20 years; when I opened my own business I turned to my hometown bank for my business banking needs as well.”

— Marla Strittmatter

Best Business Bank, Best Business Networking, Best Personal Finance Bank, & Best Student Bank PointBank • www.pointbank.com (940) 686-7000 • (972) 434-3200 Argyle • Aubrey • Denton • Flower Mound • Lake Cities Lewisville • Little Elm • Pilot Point

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Real

“PointBank really worked it out so that I was able to get [my] property in the best way that I could.”

— Jenny Layne Murdoch Fallis, Jenny Layne Bakery

Dream

Helping You Find Your

Home

by Brooke Ezzo

I

If you ask all her clients you will hear identical testimonies.

She is a huge volunteer advocate who wishes

There is no one better to work with than Chrissy.

“I love that I can give back to the Denton County

Her cheerful personality and never-give-up

community,” said Mallouf. “It’s an honor to be

attitude sets her apart from the rest. Winner

recognized by the area I grew up in and serve.”

of Best of Denton County Real Estate Buyer’s

Growing up here has also given her an

she had more time to volunteer for everything.

Agent, Chrissy Mallouf of Keller Williams is courteous, ethical, and works hard to get you what makes you happy.

In addition to winning the Best of Denton five years in a row, she has been

advantage as a realtor.

“I ’ m g r at e f u l to be in a position to help people and build li f e lo n g relationships,”

Having all of the connections that she does, she can find homes for clients before they even hit the market. In addition, she knows all about the doctors, stylists,

most influential people. She’s also been awarded Realtor of the Year and Top Producer for Keller Williams in 2018. As well as Top 1% in Dallas-Fort Worth and graduated from the Texas Leadership Realtor program in 2018.

“I’m grateful to be in a position to help people and build lifelong relationships,” said Mallouf. “No matter what roadblocks we hit, I remain positive.”

restaurants and more so

all things Denton County. She is excited to do more video marketing and vlogging, as well as podcasts to teach others how to use social

Mallouf is especially proud of serving on the Denton Parks Board, working with the Denton

sure that all of her clients get the specialized attention they need when buying or selling a home.

Benefit League, the Denton ISD Foundation, the

“Some people think the top realtors are too

United Way and several other organizations.

busy for new clients, but actually the opposite

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Keller Williams

media to grow in business.

With all of this on her plate, she still makes

One of the most giving people you’ll ever meet,

Financial & Real Estate

Mallouf lives in Denton with husband, John, and two kids Madison (14) and Holden (11). She loves to watch her kids play sports, posting positive messages on social media and dancing like nobody’s watching. She’s also a reigning hulahoop champion. At the end of the day, though, she is known for her positive attitude and her giving heart.

she’s the local expert for

voted one of Denton’s

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is true,” said Mallouf. “We know how to manage time and pool our sources, that’s why we’re top producers.”

Best of Denton County 2019

Best Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Chrissy Mallouf with Keller Williams (940) 206-7555 2434 Lillian Miller Pkwy.

Denton, TX 76205 www.OriginalDentonRealtor.kw.com

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MR.

MAKE IT HAPPEN K

by Betty Hilliard

Known as a problem solver, a community promoter and someone who thrives on building relationships, Jay Marks is a man that makes things happen. In fact, he is known as “Mr. Make It Happen,” and when you’re in the market for real estate, that is exactly the kind of person you want helping you maneuver through the buying and selling process.

Jay has always had an entrepreneur’s spirit.

While still serving in the Army, Jay saw a need with local real estate and came up with a business plan to help him transition back to civilian life. He noticed some homes on the market that needed help with their curb appeal and approached the broker listing the properties with a plan of how he could help.

The broker was so impressed with Jay’s ability to identify a problem and develop a solution that instead of hiring Jay to take care of yards, she hired him as an agent. He quickly built his clientele and became well known in the area.

Best Real Estate Agency Jay Marks Real Estate (972) 724-2540 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 201 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.JayMarksRealEstate.com

When it comes to real estate, Jay and his team believe that each client matters and every home matters.

Now, with more than 25 years of real estate experience and his own boutique brokerage, Jay understands that every transaction is unique and has its challenges, and he has built a team that understands this as well. “I have assembled a team of top-tier professionals who are each leaders in their specialized role of the sales process to make the experience as seamless as possible for our clients. We believe in making our clients feel valued and cared for,” said Jay. And, Jay’s passion for helping others doesn’t stop with his clients. He enjoys giving back and being active in the community.

He strives to bring people together and build relationships through both his Foodie Friday DFW and Denton County Giving video series where he tells the stories of and brings awareness to local businesses and nonprofit organizations. By raising awareness of the amazing things going on right in our community, Jay loves that he is able to bring people together to support each other.

When it comes to real estate, Jay and his team believe that each client matters and every home matters.

And at the end of the day, he also wants to be known for making a difference in the community where he lives and works. Jay said, “I want to be known as the nicest guy in town who also happens to sell a lot of real estate.”

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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Your Homebuying

Caddy

F

by Susan Neuhalfen

For nineteen years, Tom Tevis has loved his job. We don’t just mean he enjoys it, we mean he loves it and gets up every morning chomping at the bit to help someone buy a house.

That’s why he’s been voted Best Of Denton County mortgage banker for five years in a row now.

“I make the process of buying a home fun and with the least amount of stress,” said Tom. “If they have credit issues, I love getting them to qualify for a home.”

In fact, most of his clients say that he made the whole process fun and easy. When was the last time you said that about getting a loan?

Tom says that when people easily qualify he makes sure the rest of the process goes smoothly. But when they need help, that’s when he really goes to work to follow up until he can get them to the closing table. His true passion is helping people and even if they need extra help, that’s just an exciting challenge to Tom. Tom grew up in Lubbock where his mother was a professor at Texas Tech. Once he got to the Dallas area however, he knew he was home.

“I love it here,” he said. He also loves to go golfing as often as possible. Hence the name, Fairway Independent Mortgage.

He supports his church, First Refuge Ministries and Sea Partners, which serves and educates the people of south Sudan. Serving people is a passion.

“I am passionate, caring and fun and that shows in my work life and my personal life,” said Tom.

Best Mortgage Loan Banker Tom Tevis • (972) 754-4677 Fairway Independent Mortgage 2500 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 130 Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.applywithteamtevis.com

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Lending with

Passion Y

You’ve planned. You’ve saved.

You’re ready. The next step in one of the biggest financial decisions of your life is to find a mortgage company that best suits your needs. At Primary Residential Mortgage Inc., you’ll find a devoted team who is passionate about making your dream become reality.

The home buying process can be stressful and intimidating. With so many working parts, it can feel like you’re being pulled in many different directions. The entire loan team at Primary Residential Mortgage strives to relieve all of that. With a team that services each loan all under one roof, you are working with professionals on a personal level who are available for each part of the home buying journey.

The mortgage business is constantly evolving and finding the right program for your situation is important. “We want to continue to make

by Brooke Ezzo our clients and business partners feel confident

that we are on top of all the changes,” said Jim Mitzel, Division President.

Their focus on “lending with

passion” means they are dedicated to making sure homebuyers are

empowered and informed. “We are working on finding ways to better the client experience,” Jim said.

“We are tweaking our technology to make the mortgage process as easy as it can be.”

path of home ownership and those building wealth through real estate.

“We are excited about continuing the relationships that we currently have but also adding new clients and business partners to our family,” Jim said. “We know it takes time and effort for our family, friends, and clients to vote for us, we enjoy being a part of the Best of Denton County community.

We are truly humbled by the support.”

dedicated to making sure homebuyers are empowered and informed.

Being a local branch gives them

the opportunity to help as many members of the community as possible. Whether you are moving into the county or leaving it, Primary

Residential Mortgage can be there for you with multiple branches in Texas including, Flower Mound, Lake Dallas, Brownsville, Corpus

Christi, and Plano. They also service residents in California, Arizona, and Oklahoma.

The lending with passion team is excited to

see what the new year brings and are grateful for the opportunity to help people on the

Best Mortgage Company Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc (214) 736-9466 2800 Corporate Dr., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.PRMITX.com

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B u i l d i ng

The Dream

yo u r fa m i ly c a l l s ho m e For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God. —Hebrews 3:4 Noble Classic Homes has been building quality custom homes in Argyle, TX and surrounding areas since 1998. As Certified Master Builders and Certified Green Professionals, Noble Classic Homes has a reputation for building homes of superb craftsmanship and unique design.

“Each home we build is distinctively different based on the needs and desires of each family.

We are committed to personal responsibility, integrity and honesty.”

- John Michaels, President With a professional Project Manager and Decorator to supervise all stages of the construction process, we can assure our customers a consistent level of excellence.

Additionally, each subcontractor and supplier

NobleClassicHomes.com for Noble Classic Homes is carefully screened and selected based on their reputation for consistent production of quality, precision skills, and proven value.

Our team is fortunate to be in a business where we can share in the excitement of our customers as they watch their dream home become a reality. Construction should be a pleasurable experience before, during, and after the home-building process. Because of our commitment to exceeding our customers’ expectations, most of our business comes from their referrals.

Noble Classic Homes would love to build the dream that your family will call Home.

“Let Us Build Your Dream”

Best Custom Home Builder & Best New Home Builder

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Noble Classic Homes (940) 240-5332 9998 Hilltop Rd. • Argyle, TX 76226 NobleClassicHomes.com

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Guiding You

T hrou g h t h e P r o c e s s

A

At Brand Properties Group, we strive to be remembered as your team of real estate experts and neighborhood guides.

There are many qualities and skills that go into being an excellent real estate professional - integrity, in-depth community and market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills and a highquality professional network, all of which are hallmarks of how we work. This knowledge,

experience, and ability along with our team concept gives us the flexibility to keep our clients first priority.

The goal is to be your first and last resource for all your real estate needs. We will guide you through the process from today, through closing and beyond. While the internet has proven to be useful, a fiduciary relationship with a real estate professional ensures your interests are protected in a real estate transaction.

In our experience as real estate professionals, we have found that providing the very best service is essentially about putting our clients first. This means keeping ourselves accessible, being good listeners as well as good communicators, and responding quickly to your needs.

technologies are enabling us to extend the range of services we provide to our clients.

Have you heard of Open Door, Zillow Offers, Perch, and Redfin Now? These companies offer to purchase your home without the hassle of going on the market. We now offer the SAME SERVICE! What’s the biggest difference?

You still have a professional representing you.

For your convenience, you can compare the traditional way to sell your home and the iBuyer way all at one time! Informed sellers are the most successful sellers. You can call us anytime for more details!

Top 3 Best Real Estate Buyer’s Agent

This client first philosophy has always been our approach and it requires us to continually improve our skills and ways of doing business.

In addition, we have found that the latest www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Best of Denton County 2019

Jeff Brand with Brand Properties Group (972) 539-6555 2611 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 www.BrandPropertiesGroup.com

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Y o u H av e Q u e s t i o n s

I Have Answers

H

Health Insurance is confusing! Do you understand your plan? What’s a Deductible? Co- insurance, Maximum out of pocket? Is your insurance provided for you from your employer? Are you selfemployed and buy it on your own? Turning 65 shortly and are about to go on Medicare?

I am Mike Martin, licensed insurance agent with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency and I have been helping individuals, small businesses, and retirees for over six years.

I help them understand insurance and help them navigate through Open Enrollment.

Since I represent nationally recognized insurance companies I can personally review your options with you, compare pricing and find the coverage that meets your needs and budget.

I offer Health Insurance, Medicare, Small Business Insurance, Dental, Vision, Supplemental Insurance, and Life Insurance.

I am local and with my experience I can help you understand Health Insurance and help protect you and your family. Best of all, my assistance

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products.

Service and product availability varies by state.

Sales agents may be compensated based on enrollment.

No obligation to enroll. HMIA007454 10/2019

Best Health Insurance Agency & Best Health Insurance Agent Mike Martin with Healthmarkets (972) 786-4407 7201 Edwards Rd. Denton, TX 76208 HealthMarkets.com/MikeMartin

comes at no cost to you. Give me a call today!

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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PROACTIVE When it Comes to

I

Protecting You

by Betty Hilliard

Integrity. Humility. Reliability. Excellence. These are the core values that drive every customer relationship at Matt Tobben Insurance and Financial Services. Using those core values, Matt Tobben has served customers for more than 30 years, but his desire to help customers navigate the world of insurance and financial services stems from his own experience as a teenager.

While Matt was in high school his dad passed away. During that time, Matt began visiting with his father’s State Farm agent, and he saw first hand the steps his father took to protect the family and how, during that difficult time, those steps allowed his mom to focus on the family’s immediate needs instead of worrying about finances and her husband’s hardware store business. This experience taught Matt the importance of being proactive in protecting yourself and your family.

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Today, Matt strives to help his customers determine their needs, evaluate their risks and choose the best options for insurance coverage and financial growth. Known as an advocate for his customers, Matt said, “I believe my customers appreciate the one-on-one time I spend with them finding out what is important to them and getting to know their goals.” It’s this personalized approach that has made Matt a trusted advisor for his customers and why he was voted Denton County’s Best Life Insurance Agent.

Best of Denton County 2019

Clearly his drive to help others has made an impact. State Farm has honored him as one of the company’s President’s Club Agents – an award given to the top 50 agents in the organization. It is an honor he has received so many times, he has earned the designation of Lifetime President’s Club Agent.

While Matt works hard for his customers making sure they are protected, he doesn’t do it all on his own. He has a very knowledgeable team of agents and staff members. One team member holds a special place in Matt’s heart. His wife Lisa is by his side both in business and in life.

Together they have raised three children, and they love traveling to visit their kids and grandson whenever they get the chance.

Matt is passionate about his business and helping others achieve a sense of peace and stability for their future and their family’s future.

Matt said, “I love being a part of the community where I live and work. It is important my customers know that I am here for them and that they can count on my team and me.”

Services: Auto Insurance, Homeowners’ Insurance, Renters’ Insurance, Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Mutual Funds, and Annuities

Best Life Insurance Agent Matt Tobben Insurance and Financial Services (972) 724-7033 3201 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 205 Flower Mound, TX 75208 www.TobbenAgency.com

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Top Three Local business owners joined us for the Best of Denton County Winners Party on August 19th, 2019 at Fresco’s Mexicana.

Photos courtesy of Picture This! Photography

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

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The firm that is now Minor & Jester, P.C. was founded by Fred Minor. Fred strongly believed in serving his clients and his community.

Along with running his law firm, Fred was highly involved both the local community and the Texas

COMMITTED TO

COMMUNITY

W

by Betty Hilliard

Legislature, serving as Speaker of the House in 1940. Tom D. Jester, Jr. joined the firm in 1967 and continued to build on the foundation of serving both clients and community. Tom was extremely active in the Denton community including serving Denton as mayor.

Today, attorneys Jill Jester and Chris Henry believe their continued success comes from the firm’s commitment to their clients. Serving clients in the areas of real estate, family law, bankruptcy, probate, civil litigation, and business law, they understand that each client’s situation is different and requires a different approach.

“We are always learning and seeking new

When a law firm has been serving the community for more than 100 years, it is clear they have a solid history of success helping their clients navigate through the legal system, and the team at Minor & Jester, P.C. take great pride in that history.

resources for our clients,” said Jill. “We know that communication is key. We take the time to clearly explain all of the options our clients have so they can have a better outcome, and we help guide them through uncertain times.”

The team’s outstanding focus on customer service has garnered several awards and honors including numerous awards for this year’s Best of Denton County. The firm won the Best Bankruptcy Law Firm and Best Wills and Estate Planning Law Firm. They were finalists in the Best Business Collections Firm, Best Business Law Firm and Best Civil Law Firm.

The team at Minor & Jester, P.C. isn’t just committed to helping clients in the community; they are also committed to serving the community by giving their time and resources. Jill is the current Chairwoman of both the Denton Chamber of Commerce Board and the Board of Regents at Texas Woman’s University. Chris was previously a member of the Board of Directors of Keep Denton Beautiful, Inc. where he also served

Best Bankruptcy Law Firm & Best Civil Attorney

as President of the board for two years. He currently serves as Chair of the Bankruptcy

Minor & Jester, P.C. (940) 387-7585 502 West Oak St., Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76201 www.MinorAndJester.com

Section of the Denton County Bar Association.

“Our long history of community involvement, as well as our integrity and dedication to the success of our clients distinguishes us from other choices,” says Jill. “The future is bright in Denton County! We are excited to continue

Over 9 Years

of A wa r d s

working and growing with people in the area and to continue making a difference in this unique and vibrant community.”

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Kimberly Shanklin:

Qua nt i t y

over

by Steve Gamel

B

Before opening her own law office, Kimberly Shanklin spent 13 years working for a larger

firm representing thousands of clients. While

gaining valuable experience is important, she desired to scale down a bit and focus on personal attention.

focus, and I love that I know my clients and they know me. I’m proud of my strong reputation for delivering results.”

Kimberly’s team at the Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin, PLLC provides a comprehensive stop for all your legal needs with a focus

Kimberly understood many of her

on specialized attention, superior

clients were coming to her for help

representation, and efficient

during a very stressful time in their lives. They needed a lawyer willing to make their individual needs a focus. So Shanklin did what any client-driven lawyer would do ... she opened her own law firm.

“It’s been the most rewarding decision of my career,” said Shanklin, the proud owner

decision making. Kimberly represents clients in all types of family law cases, divorce, child custody, adoptions, and most misdemeanor and felony criminal cases, to name a few.

Shanklin is tough in the courtroom, and

of the Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin, PLLC.

what makes her tick is her clients.

“Quality and individualized representation is my

“Often people come to me lost, scared, anxious,

Criminal Law: Assault, Boating While Intoxicated, Child Protective Services, Computer Crimes, Domestic Violence, Drug Crimes, Driving While Intoxicated, Expunction, Internet Crimes, Non-Disclosures, Occupational Drivers Licenses, Probation Violations/Revocations, Theft Crimes, Trespassing & White Collar Crimes Family & Civil Law: Adoptions, Business Disputes, Child Custody, Child Support, Contract Disputes, Divorce, Enforcement Actions, General Civil, Litigation, Modifications & Property Disputes

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

and at their worst,” Shanklin said. “I love being able to show them a plan to help them out of it.”

That mindset has helped her stand out among a growing list of quality lawyers, as her office was voted Best Criminal Law Firm in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 by Best of Denton County voters.

It’s all in an effort to help their clients get back to leading a normal life.

“In criminal matters, in order to get someone out of a jam, it takes them accepting how they got there in the first place and focusing on how to keep from repeating a bad decision,” Shanklin said. “In family matters, it takes a well thought out plan that will continue to work for the family dynamic in the future so that the client is comfortable and ready to move on in a positive way. I love solving problems and bringing a positive resolution to a difficult situation.”

Best Criminal Attorney & Best Criminal Law Firm Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin (940) 382-8216 400 West Oak St., Ste. 204 Denton, TX 76201 www.ShanklinLawFirm.com

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Planning P r ot e cti o n From a Community-Minded Attorney

J

by Steve Gamel

again, my clients haven’t,” Jennifer said.

“This could be the first time they are thinking about some of these things, and it can be uncomfortable to think about not being able to make your own decisions or passing away.

I want my clients to feel heard and respected, and to feel confident about the future because they have a plan in place.”

Working closely with people and her community is in Jennifer’s blood. She serves on the PTA Board at Blanton Elementary and on the Board of Directors for Hearts for Homes in Denton.

Hearts for Homes provides housing repairs to low-income seniors in the community and provides truly life-changing services for the

Jennifer Balmos has practiced law for almost 15 years. But it wasn’t until she made the leap to estate planning and elder law that she felt like she was making a real difference for her clients and the community.

“I missed talking to people, listening to what worried them, and then advising them on their best options,” said Jennifer, a Lantana resident and mother of two whose previous focus was on intellectual property. “I love people, and I love problem-solving. The best part of my job is seeing a client leave my office with a huge weight off their shoulders.”

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That client-first attitude has made Balmos

seniors it serves.

Law in Bartonville Town Center a trusted

“Being able to serve my community helped drive

option for Denton County residents seeking

my move to elder law and estate planning,”

individualized planning services.

Jennifer said. “No one ever came to me wanting

These services range from wills

help enforcing their intellectual property rights.

and trusts to powers of attorney,

But now I can use my professional skills to give

medical directives, assistance

back to my community — and I love that.”

with Medicaid and VA benefits, decisions on nursing home care, asset transfer and protection, and more.

Jennifer believes planning ahead can help make emotional or traumatic situations just a little bit easier.

“I really try to empathize with my clients.

They are all coming to see me because

Top 3 Best Elder Law Attorney Balmos Law Firm (940) 300-9834 2652 FM 407, Ste. 215-G Bartonville, TX 76226 www.BalmosLaw.com

they’re thinking about the future, and even

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Paintless Dent & Hail repair

Bar Staff The Bearded Monk www.beardedmonk.com

metrodent

Beer Selection Denton County Brewing Company www.dentoncbc.com

hailfreecar

.com

Serving DFW for Over 25 Years!

Winners Directory Automotive Services Auto accessories Fifth Gear Automotive www.autorepairshoplewisvilletx.com

Auto body shop

Pro Care Collision Your Neighborhood Collision Center Thank You for Voting Us Best of Denton County! www.PCCollision.com 3 Convenient Locations (972) 724-4434 (940) 243-1010

Auto Repair Shop

Boat & RV Storage Lakeview Marina www.ldbc-lakeview.com Boat dealer Phil Dill Boats www.phildillboats.com Custom Auto / Toy Vehicle Accessories North Texas Truck Accessories www.northtexastruckaccessories.com

(972) 353-2100 Auto service center Dealership

Pre-Owned Car Dealership Classic of Denton www.classicofdenton.com Tire Store Briscoe Alignment & Tire www.briscoetire.com

Domestic Car Dealership Classic of Denton www.classicofdenton.com

Truck Dealership

Drive-Thru Car Wash Clean & Green of Denton www.cleangreencarwash.com

Full Service Mobile Detailing Kelley’s Mobile Wash

New Car Dealership Bill Utter Ford www.billutterford.com

Oil Change

3507 E. University Dr. Denton, TX 76208 2303 W. University Dr. Denton, TX 76201

Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford Thank You for Voting Us Best Truck Dealership in Denton County www.FiveStarFordLewisville.com 1144 N. Stemmons Fwy. Lewisville, TX 75067

(972) 382-9987 (Read on Center Fold)

Bar & Nightlife Bar Patio

Classic of Denton

(940) 498-9800

26737 Hwy 380 East Aubrey, TX 76227

Marty B’s

KwikKarDenton.com (940) 382-3500

We’re bringing the spirit of the Texas Hill Country closer to home along with live music, a welcoming modern ranch atmosphere, delicious Texas specialities, and community fire pits for s’mores & storytelling.

Want a Head Start 0n Next Year?

Sign Up for Our Newsletter at BestofDentonCounty.com to See When Nominations Begin in 2020!

Live Music Marty B’s www.martybsplace.com Margaritas Gloria’s Latin Cuisine www.gloriascuisine.com Mixed drinks 940’s Kitchen & Cocktails www.940s.com Sports Bar Verf’s Grill & Tavern www.verfs.com Wine & Spirits Steve’s Wine Bar www.steveswinebar.com

beauty endermologie

Flower Mound Vein Center North Texas’ hometown vein expert for healthy, beautiful legs. We can help you return to normal with little to no pain and downtime.

FlowerMoundVeins.com 4921 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 410-5757 (Read on Pg. 80) Cellulite Removal The Med Spa of Flower Mound www.medspafm.com

2233 Colorado Blvd.

Denton, TX 76205

Classic Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Mazda. Our goal is to make your vehicle buying experience the best possible with prices and service that can’t be beat. www.ClassicOfDenton.com 4984 South I-35E Denton, TX 76210

Happy Hour The Tavern at Lakeside www.tavernlakesideflowermound.com

Barbershop Rooster’s Men’s Grooming www.roostersmgc.com

Truck Repair Shop Lewisville Truck Center www.lewisvilletruckcenter.com

Kwik Kar of Denton

Drink Menu Yellow Rose Steak & Chop House www.yellowrosesteakhouse.com

Beauty Services

Full Service Car Wash Clean & Green of Denton www.cleangreencarwash.com

Motorcycle Dealer American Eagle Harley Davidson www.aeharley.com

Family Owned & Operated since 1982. Built on Honesty, Knowledge & Integrity. www.LorentzAutoInc.com 600 N. Mill St. Lewisville, TX 75057

(214) 735-8365

Custom Paint Color Customs Collision of Denton www.colorcustoms.com

Import Car Dealership Toyota of Denton www.toyotaofdenton.com

Lorentz Automotive

Metro Dent Your neighborhood hail repair center.

Thank you for voting us Best Paintless Dent & Hail Repair for 2 Years in a row! www.HailFreeCar.com 1620 E State Hwy 121, Ste. C100 Lewisville, TX 75056

Craft Beer Selection What’s on Tap whatsontapbeer.com

www.MartyBsPlace.com 2664 FM 407 East Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 241-3500

Children’s Salon Pigtails and Crewcuts of Highland Village www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/ highlandvillage

Want to Suggest a New Category?

Visit Our Website at BestofDentonCounty.com and Click the FAQ section to submit a new category for us to review!

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A FEW OF OUR SPECIALTIES. . .

• SMILE MAKEOVERS

• FULL-MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION • DURATHIN VENEERS • SURESMILE CLEAR ALIGNERS • COSMETIC GUM CONTOURING • TEETH WHITENING • DENTAL IMPLANTS • CEREC SAME DAY CROWNS • INLAYS AND ONLAYS • DENTAL BONDING • BRIDGES • SEDATION DENTISTRY • GENERAL & FAMILY DENTISTRY • DIGITAL DENTISTRY • BIOMIMETIC DENTISTRY • BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY

( 972 ) 355 - 9545 • w w w. T i t e n s o r D e n ta l . c o m 1901 Lo n g P r a i r i e R d., S t e . 3 2 0 • F lo w e r M o u n d, T X 75022

The Titensor Cosmetic Model has been developed over the last three decades through advanced education, cuttingedge technology, and the desire to help people smile

Winners’ Directory Proudly Sponsored by

• IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES

Winners’ Directory Proudly Sponsored by

Actual Patient

Actual Patient

Actual Patient

Co m m o n ly a s k e d What is Titensor Dental best known for?

Why do you employ a less-is-more philosophy?

We have won numerous awards for our cosmetic and implant dentistry. Because our ability to do multiple procedures in one appointment under sedation, patients travel from long distances to get this service. Another thing we have become known for is our advanced digital technology.

We are always ahead of the game as far as technology and services that we can offer our patients.

For most dentists, it’s either a filling or a crown. But with the use of our technology and training, there’s a middle ground that we use to restore teeth for our patients while preserving more of their natural tooth.

Those options are called inlays and onlays. We also apply this philosophy to our DURAthin veneers. Preserving more natural tooth structure is always better.

What technological advancement are you most excited about right now?

I’m excited that we have moved to being 100% digital. We don’t take gooey impressions anymore; everything is digital. Our communication with our labs is cut down from a few weeks to days.

Our technology has allowed us to do dentistry sometimes in the same appointment. Placing implants digitally during surgery makes it safer and more predictable.

What sets your practice apart?

Our office has a father son team with over 40 years combined knowledge

and experience, as well as, advanced technology offered to our patients and

the ultimate standard of care. We are unique in the fact that we do offer all

services. You can get multiple procedures done in one appointment without having to be referred out. We are committed to excellence in the work that

we do and the service that we give. We are here to ensure you get the smile and dentistry that you are seeking.

Dr. Steven Titensor & Dr. Brett Titensor

( 9 7 2 ) 3 5 5 - 9 5 4 5 • w w w. T i t e n s o r D e n t a l . c o m 1 9 0 1 L o n g P r a i r i e R d. , S t e . 3 2 0 • F l o w e r M o u n d, T X 7 5 0 2 2

color salon

hair stylist

Tanning Salon Tan Evolution www.tanevolutiontan.com

Commercial Real Estate Agent Phyllis Garcia with Bridge Realty of Texas www.bridgerealtytexas.com

Waxing Service The Brow Architect of Flower Mound www.browarchitect.schedulista.com

Emergency Restoration

women’s salon

David Ryan Salon A full-service salon that can cater to the needs of any customer, including men and women. www.DavidRyanSalons.com 4151 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 691-0022 (Read on Pg. 130) Color Specialist (individual)

Shauna McCabe with Salon Sage Passion & Friendship, A Winning Combination!

Styling Hair for 13 Years, & Friends over 20 Years. www.SalonSage.co 3301 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 145 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 849-6213 (Read on Pg. 79) Laser Hair Removal The Med Spa of Flower Mound www.medspafm.com Makeup Krista Dusenberry with Makeup

By Krista Ann of Denton www.makeupbykristaann.com

Nathan Dean with Cloud 9 Salon & Spa Specializing in Color, Cuts, and Brazilian Blowouts www.Cloud9Salon.com 1651 Justin Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

Massage (Drop-In) Institute of Bodywork Studies www.bodyworkstudies.com Massage Spa The Woodhouse Day Spa of Highland Village www.highlandvillage.woodhousespas.com

Med Spa

Woodhouse Day Spa Massage Therapy Skin Care • Hydrafacial Body Treatments Nail Services www.HighlandVillage.

WoodhouseSpa.com 4081 Waller Creek, Ste. R120 Highland Village, TX 75077

(817) 438-1772 Eyelash Extensions LASH By Amber Michelle www.lashbyambermichelle.com Facials Mod Facial Bar www.modfacialbar.com Hair Extensions Christi Danielle Salon www.salonflowermound.com

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Amber Michelle Salon Cut, Color, Style and Make Up. We’re Dedicated to Making You Look Your Absolute Very Best! www.AmberMichelleSalon.com

2500 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 140 & 160

Flower Mound, TX 75022

Fire & Water Clean-Up & Restoration Like it Never Even Happened.® www.ServProFlower MoundLewisville.com 650 S. Edmonds Ln. Lewisville, TX 75067

(972) 420-4771

(972) 691-9500 (Read on Pg. 78)

Business & Professional Services Business Bank

Energy Broker US Energy Experts, LLC www.useellc.com Fire & Water Clean Up Servpro of Denton www.servprodenton.com

graphic design

PointBank Thank You for Voting Us Best Business Bank, Best Business Networking, Best Personal Finance Bank and Best Student Bank

(Read on Pg. 76)

Day Spa

Commercial & Residential

Massage Therapist Gayla Snell with Indulge at Studio G www.indulgeatstudiog.com

(972) 317-4384 Cosmetic injections The Med Spa of Flower Mound www.medspafm.com

ServPro of Flower Mound/Lewisville

The Med Spa of Flower Mound The Med Spa for the Sophisticated Woman and Distinguished Man. The Look You Want Through a Conservative Approach www.MedSpaFM.com 2601 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 180 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 874-0008 (Read on Pg. 04) Men’s Salon The Boardroom of Highland Village www.boardroomsalon.com

www.PointBank.com (940) 686-7000 (972) 434-3200

Argyle • Aubrey Denton • Flower Mound Lake Cities • Lewisville Little Elm • Pilot Point (Read on Pg. 96) Business Coaching Services Cheryl Close with Close Coaching & Consulting closecoachingandconsulting.com Business IT Solutions GWK Technologies www.gwktechnologies.com Business Networking PointBank www.pointbank.com

Microblading Brow & Blade www.catherinesandersbrows.com

Chamber of Commerce Flower Mound www.flowermoundchamber.com

Nail Salon

Commercial Construction Eloy Construction Interiors of Lewisville www.eloyconstruction.com

Envy Nails Thank You for Voting Us Best Nail Salon 6 Years in a Row! 2221 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 145 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 691-3327

Commercial HVAC Southern Comfort Mechanical www.scmdfwair.com Commercial Landscaping Green Meadows Landscaping www.greenmeadowslandscaping.com Commercial Printing Image Center imagecentertx.com Commercial Real Estate Bridge Realty of Texas www.bridgerealtytexas.com

Local Studio. Global Impact. www.MixedMediaCreations.com 2300 Rockbrook Dr. Lewisville, TX 75067

(972) 221-1600 (Read on Pg. 90) Marketing Specialist Portside Marketing, LLC www.portsidemarketing.com Notary Services Dash Notary www.dashnotary.com Office Cleaning Service Buckets and Bows Maid Service www.bucketsandbows.com Political Consulting Firm The Crouch Group www.thecrouchgroup.com Postage & Mailing QuickShip Mail & Business Center of Lake Dallas www.quickshipinc.com Promotional Products Groggy Dog www.groggydogonline.com Public Relations Firm Mixed Media Creations www.mixedmediacreations.com Sign Company Sigma Signs & Printing www.sigmaprint.com

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Social Media Management Murray Media Group www.murray-media.com

Recreational Club Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.crosstimbersymca.org

Tutoring: In Home Homework In a Cafe www.homeworkinacafe.com

Architecture Firm The ML Group Architects www.mlgrouptexas.com

Staffing & Recruiting Texas LoneStar Staffing www.texaslonestarstaffing.com

Rotary Rotary of Flower Mound www.flowermoundrotary.org

Tutoring: Math The Tutoring Center www.tutoringcenter.com

Web Designer Portside Marketing, LLC www.portsidemarketing.com

Vacation Bible School The Village Church www.valleycreek.org/denton

Tutoring: Reading The Tutoring Center www.tutoringcenter.com

Auto Insurance Agency McManis Farmers Insurance Agency agents.farmers.com/tx/bartonville/courtneymcmanis

Web Developer & SEO Murray Media Group www.murray-media.com

Veterans / Military Organization The American Legion www.legion.org

Community & Non-Profit

Youth Club Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.crosstimbersymca.org

Advocacy Organization Denton County Friends of the Family www.dcfof.org Animal Advocacy Organization Ranch Hands Rescue www.ranchhandrescue.org

Animal Non-Profit

Texas Coalition for Animal Protection Low Cost Spay & Neuter Vaccinations Dental Cleaning Heartworm Prevention Flea & Tick Prevention www.TexasForThem.org 713 Sunset St. Denton, TX 76201

(940) 566-5551 (Read on Pg. 60) Charity Organization Our Daily Bread Community Soup Kitchen www.ourdailybreaddenton.org Church Valley Creek Church www.valleycreek.org/denton Church Youth Group Garden Ridge Church of Christ of Lewisville www.gardenridge.org Community Liaison Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.crosstimbersymca.org Fire Station Highland Village Fire Department www.highlandvillage.org Health Organization Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.ymcadallas.org/locations/cross_timbers

Education Charter School Founders Classical Academy of Flower Mound founders-flowermound.responsiveed.com

Pastor Scott Jarvis of Garden Ridge Church of Christ of Lewisville www.gardenridge.org Police Officer Corporal David Harney with Highland Village Police Department www.highlandvillage.org

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Best of Denton County 2019

Birthday Parties - Kids Win Kids www.winkids.net Bounce House Rental Jump!Zone of Lewisville www.jumpzoneparty.com Bowling / Family Entertainment Center Andy B’s Bowl Social www.bowlandybs.com

Daycare

Country Club Denton Country Club www.dentoncc.org

Primrose School of Lantana Call Us Today to Schedule a Tour and Learn More About Our $500 Gift of Education Credit www.PrimroseLantana.com 7020 Justin Rd. Lantana, TX 76226

(940) 455-2550 Drop In Daycare Adventure Kids Playcare of Highland Village web.adventurekidsplaycare.com/locations/ highland-village Private Preschool - K DKH Academy www.dkhacademy.com Private School: Pre-K – 12th Liberty Christian School www.libertychristian.com Public Elementary School Liberty Elementary School www.lisd.net/liberty Public High School Flower Mound High School www.lisd.net/fmhs Public Kindergarten Liberty Elementary School www.lisd.net/liberty Public Middle School McKamy Middle School www.lisd.net/mckamy

Tutoring: general

The Tutoring Center www.TutoringCenter.com Flower Mound 1121 Flower Mound Rd., Ste. 550 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 874-1999

Bartonville 3600 FM 407 E, Ste. 140 Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 455-2800

Carrollton 1025 Hebron Pkwy., Ste. 134 Carrollton, TX 75007

(214) 455-6659

Bookkeeping Mary Smith with Chandler & Knowles CPAs www.chandlerknowlescpa.com

Certified Public Accountant

Holly Frenzel with Frenzel Consulting & Tax Services, PLLC Excellent, Timely Service with a Smile Every Time. www.FrenzelCPA.com 625 Dallas Dr., Ste. 100 Denton, TX 76205

(940) 382-4311

Event Facility Circle R Ranch www.circlerranch.org

Certified Public Accounting Firm Chandler & Knowles CPAs www.chandlerknowlescpa.com

Gaming Store Freaks and Geeks www.facebook.com/FreaksAndGeeksllc

Credit Union

Hotel Embassy Suites by Hilton of Denton www.hilton.com/en/embassy Movie Theater Moviehouse & Eatery sites.themoviehouse.com/flowermound

Place for Live Music

Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater Performance Hall Black Box Theater Art Gallery • Special Events www.MCLGrand.com 100 N. Charles St. Lewisville, TX 75057

DATCU Credit Union Thank You for Voting Us Best of Denton County DATCU.org

(940) 387-8585

(972) 219-8446 (Read on Pg. 91) Team Building Escape Rooms HQ www.escaperoomshq.com

Custom home builder

Theater (Performance) The Actors Conservatory Theater www.getintotheact.org Travel Agency Expedia CruiseShipCenters of Flower Mound www.cruiseshipcenters.com Travel Agent Sheree Harris with Cruise Planners www.cruiseplanners.com/travel-agents/ view/5659-Sheree-&-Leonard-Harris

Mayor Steve Dixon of Flower Mound www.flower-mound.com

Outreach / Missionary Organization Our Daily Bread Community Soup Kitchen www.ourdailybreaddenton.org

Acting Studio Studio B Performing Arts www.studiobtheater.com

College Planning The Tutoring Center www.tutoringcenter.com

Magazine Lantana Living www.lantanaliving.com

Online Publication Family eGuide www.familyeguide.com

Entertainment & Travel

Auto Insurance Agent Courtney McManis with Farmers Insurance Agency agents.farmers.com/tx/bartonville/courtneymcmanis

Waterpark Hawaiian Falls of Roanoke www.hfalls.com/roanoke.php

Noble Classic Homes As Certified Master Builders and Certified Green Professionals, Noble Classic Homes has a reputation for building homes of superb craftsmanship and unique design.

www.NobleClassicHomes.com Financial and Real Estate Services Apartment Community Bexley River Walk www.bexleyriverwalk.com Architect Mike Love with The ML Group Architects www.mlgrouptexas.com

9998 Hilltop Rd. Argyle, TX 76226

(940) 240-5332 (Read on Pg. 102) Financial Advisor Shelly Dodge with Visionary Financial Group www.visionaryfinancialgroup.com

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Financial Advising Firm

Real Estate Agency

Mortgage company

Home Services Alarm Company Smith Thompson Home Security www.smiththompson.com

Visionary Financial Group Retirement Planning, IRA’s/401K Rollovers, Life Insurance, Annuities, College Savings Plans www.VisionaryFinancialGroup.com

3305 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 140 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 539-0002

Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. Thank You for Voting Us Best Mortgage Company www.Prmitx.com

2800 Corporate Dr., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(214) 736-9466 (Read on Pg. 101)

health insurance agency

Jay Marks Real Estate We Know What Home Means to You. We’re here to help. www.JayMarksRealEstate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 724-2540 (Read on Pg. 99)

Mortgage Loan Banker

Real Estate Buyer’s Agent

Appliance Repair McNeill’s Appliance www.mcneillsappliance.com Cabinet / Granite Company The Granite Shop www.graniteshop.net Carpet Cleaning Prestige Carpet Cleaning www.prestigecarpetcleaning.com Christmas Light Installation Silent Lights www.silent-lights.com/

Custom Decorative Painting

Castle Painting & Home Services Interior & Exterior Painting Wallpaper Removal Bathroom Remodels Countertops • Flooring Cabinet Refacing www.CastlePainting.net

Mike Martin with Healthmarkets Find the Insurance You Need in One Place!

Health • Medicare Life Insurance Supplemental • Small Business www.HealthMarkets.com/ MikeMartin

7201 Edwards Rd. Denton, TX 76208

(972) 786-4407 (Read on Pg. 105)

Tom Tevis with Fairway Independent Mortgage Co. Thank You for Voting Me Best of Denton County www.applywithteamtevis.com 2500 Lakeside Pkwy., Ste. 130 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 754-4677

Chrissy Mallouf with Keller Williams A dynamic duo of customer focused, top producing, award winning and community minded realtors dedicated to maximizing your real estate experience. www.OriginalDentonRealtor.kw.com

2434 Lillian Miller Pkwy.

Denton, TX 76205

(940) 206-7555 (Read on Pg. 98)

(Read on Pg. 100)

Health insurance agent Mike Martin with Healthmarkets www.healthmarkets.com/mikemartin

New Home Builder Noble Classic Homes www.nobleclassichomes.com

Real Estate Seller’s Agent Beth Caudill with Make the Move Team www.makethemoveteam.com

Home Inspection Company DFW Home Inspection Group www.dfwhig.com

Personal Finance Bank

Senior Community Good Samaritan Society-Denton Communities www.good-sam.com/locations/denton-village

Home Staging Eileen Ellis with Ellis Staging and Redesign ellisstagingandredesign.com Insurance Agency Tammy Edwards State Farm Insurance Agency www.sfquoteme.com Insurance Agent Jim Bridges with State Farm Insurance Agency www.jimbridgesinsurance.com

Title Company

PointBank Thank You for Voting Us Best Business Bank, Best Business Networking, Best Personal Finance Bank and Best Student Bank

Life insurance agency Jennifer Harvey New York Life Insurance www.newyorklife.com/agent/jgharvey

www.PointBank.com (940) 686-7000 (972) 434-3200

Life insurance agent Matt Tobben with Matt Tobben Insurance and Financial Services www.tobbenagency.com

Argyle • Aubrey Denton • Flower Mound Lake Cities • Lewisville Little Elm • Pilot Point

Learn More About

Freedom Title

property management Denton County Property Management www.dentoncountypm.com

Financial and Real Estate Services on Page 96

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Custom Window Treatments Made in the Shade Blinds & More www.mitsblindsnorthdfw.com Dry Cleaner Prince Cleaners of Flower Mound princecleaners.business.site Electrical Company Charlie Brown Sound & Electric www.charliebrownsound.com

Exterminator

ABC Home & Commercial Services of DFW Pest & Rodent Control | Handyman Lawn Service & Fertilization Pool Services | Plumbing HVAC Services M-14802 | TACLA 23753C www.ABCHomeAndCommercial.com

Flower Mound - (972) 899-5950 Denton (South) - (940) 380-8822 Denton (North) - (940) 220-4575 Lewisville - (972) 436-8141 Southlake - (817) 591-0490 Thanks for 7 Years in A Row

(Read on Pg. 96)

(214) 725-3464

997 Grandys Ln. Lewisville, TX 75077

(866) TEAM-ABC (Read on Pg. 48) Fence Builders Texas Best Fence & Patio www.texasbestfence.com

Choose Local.

Choose Freedom.

Print • Digital • Web • Marketing

www.Murray-Media.com

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Fence Staining & Refinishing

Home Cleaning Service

Patio & Outdoor Living Contractors

Storage Units McGee Lane Self Storage www.mcgeelaneselfstorage.com

Swimming pool builder

Complete Solutions Goodman’s Firehouse Fence & Outdoor Living

Buckets & Bows Maid Service

Fences • Decks • Patio Covers Pergolas • Stonework Concrete • Fireplace & Fire Pits Outdoor Kitchens Retaining Walls

Creating free time for busy people, like you!

www.Goodmans FirehouseFence.com

(214) 766-3314

Fireplace / Chimney Service Off Duty Chimney Sweeps www.offdutychimneysweeps.com

Flooring Company

Eco Construction Group, LLC Home Renovations Kitchen & Bath Design Center Design. Build. Remodel.

Thank You for Voting Us Best in Denton County.

Professionally cleaning homes and offices in Denton County since 1981. www.BucketsAndBows.com

(972) 219-0400 Home Lighting TLC Electrical www.tlcelectrical.com

Home Theatre / Home Entertainment Charlie Brown Sound & Electric www.charliebrownsound.com Home Warranty First American Home Warranty www.homewarranty.firstam.com Interior Decorator Jackie Russell with Complete Solutions www.completesolutionsdfw.com Interior Design Studio Complete Solutions www.completesolutionsdfw.com

(469) 865-0032

Internet Service Provider Spectrum www.spectrum.com

Foundation & concrete repair Strive Concrete Solutions www.striveconcretesolutions.com Garage Door Company Lantana Overhead Door, LLC www.lantanaoverheaddoor.com Garage Door Design / Organization Classy Closets of DFW www.classyclosets.com Garden Center Schmitz Garden Center www.schmitzgardencenter.com Gutter Cleaning All Pro Gutters www.allproguttersllc.com Gutter Installation Down-N-Out Gutters www.downnoutgutters.com Handyman Services Mr. Handyman www.mrhandyman.com

Heating / Air Repair

Northside Air Conditioning The Right Job, With Excellence, Every Time www.NorthsideAir.com 619 Hembry St. Lewisville, TX 75057

(972) 318-5097 (Read on Pg. 49)

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Best of Denton County 2019

(972) 539-8258 Plumber

Home Renovations Castle Painting and Home Services www.lewisvillepainting.com

www.EcoConstructionGroup.com

2920 Justin Rd., Ste. 600 Highland Village, TX 75077

We offer full interior and exterior showrooms displaying everything; whether you’re starting a new build or simply updating your home we can take it from start to finish. www.CompleteSolutionsDFW.com 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Iron Doors & Stairs Love That Door www.lovethatdoor.com

Landscaping Landscape Express www.landscapeexpressdfwdotcom. wordpress.com Lawn Maintenance Frenchy’s Lawn & Tree www.frenchyslawns.com Mosquito Control Mosquito Joe of Northwest DFW www.northwestdfw.mosquitojoe.com Moving Service Little Guys Movers www.littleguys.com/denton-dallas-fort-worth New Home Owners Service Your New Neighborhood www.yournewneighborhood.com

Call for your FREE design consultation & estimate to create your own vacation with the best.

Custom pools & spas, outdoor lighting, patio covers, outdoor kitchens. www.OutdoorLiving-Pool AndPatio.com

9067 Teasley Ln. Denton, TX 76210

(972) 317-3500 swimming pool remodelers

Strittmatter Plumbing & A/C We Repair, Maintain and Replace All Makes and Models of Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Equipment.

Serving Denton County since 1980 Locally Owned & Operated www.Strittmatters.com

(940) 566-1122 (972) 436-6585 Pool Maintenance Brakefield’s Pool Service brakefields-pool-service.business.site

Roofer

Irrigation / Lawn Sprinkler Repair Denton Lawn Sprinkler www.dentonlawnsprinkler.com Kitchen / Bath Remodeling Eco Construction, LLC of Flower Mound www.ecoconstructiongroup.com

Outdoor Living Pool & Patio

Bowen Pools Plaster • Tile • Coping Tanning Ledges • Spas Water & Fire Features www.BowenPoolsLLC.com 3341 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75022

(214) 770-7227 (Read on Pg. 56) tree removal service

1-2-Tree Pruning • Removal Stump Grinding Emergencies Lot Clearing www.12TREE.com 332 Old Gerault Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 989-9332 (Read on Pg. 55) weed control

Anderson Roofing Our Mission is to Provide a Professional & Honest Approach to Roofing Residential & Commercial New Roofs & Roofing Repair www.AndersonRoofsTexas.com 197 Stonewood Blvd.

Bartonville, TX 76226

(972) 318-1500 Shower Doors - Frameless My Affordable Glass and Remodeling www.myaffordableglass.com

Outdoor Lighting Company Texas Traditions Outdoors www.dfwpoolandpatio.com

Solar Screens Longhorn Screens – Shades – Shutters www.longhornsolarscreens.com

Painter Carnival Custom Painting www.carnivalpainting.com

Stonework Texas Best Fence & Patio www.texasbestfence.com

Weed Man North DFW Weed Control • Lawn Fertilization Crabgrass, Dallisgrass, Nutsedge, Fire Ants, White Grubs, Surface Insects, Lawn Disease and Soil Revitalizer www.NDFW.WeedManUSA.com

(972) 865-2204 (940) 648-2559 (Read on Pg. 46)

Window Cleaning Clear and Clean Window Cleaning www.clearandcleanwindows.com

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Window Company

Call Today for Your FREE In-Home Consultation • Superior Energy-Efficiency • Locally Owned & Made in U.S.A. • Certified Professional Installers • Exceptional Customer Service • Lifetime Warranty www.WindowExpo.com 2430 Lacy Ln., Ste. 102 Carrollton, TX 75006

1 (800) New-Windows (639-9463)

Legal Services BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY

CIVIL ATTORNEY

Jill Jester with Minor & Jester, P.C. Attorneys and Counselors At Minor & Jester, P.C., we understand that each client’s case is different.

Our top goal is clear communication between our law office and you. www.MinorAndJester.com 502 West Oak St., Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76201

(940) 387-7585 (Read on Pg. 108) Civil Law Firm Elsey & Elsey, Attorneys at Law www.elseylaw.com Construction Attorney Dale Butler with Butler Law Firm, P.C. www.butlerlegal.com

Criminal Attorney

Byron Berry with Hayes, Berry, White, & Vanzant, LLP Family Law Commercial & Residential Real Estate Law Bankruptcy | Mediation www.hbwvlaw.com hbwvlaw • iheartmylawyer

(940) 387-3518 Bankruptcy Law Firm Minor & Jester, P.C. www.minorandjester.com Business Attorney Andrew Christman with Christman Attorneys, PLLC www.christmanattorneys.com

Kimberly Shanklin with Law Office of Kimberly Shanklin We are a full-service law firm focused on fulfilling each client’s specific needs and exceeding their expectations. www.ShanklinLawFirm.com 400 West Oak St., Ste. 204 Denton, TX 76201

(940) 382-8216 (Read on Pg. 109) Criminal Law Firm The Law Office of Kimberly N. Shanklin, PLLC www.shanklinlawfirm.com

Divorce Attorney

Business Collections Firm Elsey & Elsey, Attorneys at Law www.elseylaw.com Business Law Firm Christman Attorneys, PLLC www.christmanattorneys.com

Learn More About

the Best Legal Professionals in Denton County on Page 108 www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Elder Law Attorney Leigh Hilton with Leigh Hilton, PLLC www.dentonestateplanninglawyer.com Family Attorney Jennifer Wilson with Wilson and Associates Law, P.C. www.wilsonandassociateslaw.com

Family Law firm

Neal Ashmore Family Law Group Our tenacious team of attorneys pairs legal knowledge with creative strategies to bring stability and security to your situation. We understand that divorce takes an emotional toll on everyone. www.NorthTexasLawyers.com 401 East Corporate Dr., Ste.100 Lewisville, TX 75057

(972) 436-8000

Divorce Child Custody Complex Property Division Prenuptial Agreements Paternity www.KoonsFuller.com 320 West Eagle Dr., Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76201

(940) 442-6677 Divorce Law Firm KoonsFuller Family Law www.koonsfuller.com

Family Allergy & Asthma Care Thank You for Voting Us Best Allergy Center in Denton County. www.FAACcares.com 3051 Churchill Dr., Ste. 130 Flower Mound, TX 75022 2701 West Oak St., Ste. 101 Denton, TX 76201

(972) 539-0086 Alzheimer’s Care Visiting Angel’s of Denton www.visitingangels.com/denton/home AUDIOLOGIST Allison Liberio with Family Hearing Practice of Flower Mound www.flowermoundfamilyhearing.com

Immigration Attorney Marianela Flores with Flores Harbour Law www.floresharbourlaw.com

Children & Adolescent Therapist Michelle Dean, LPC with Connections Wellness Group of Denton www.connectionswellnessgroup.com

Judge Judge Brody Shanklin www.dentoncounty.com/Departments/ District-Courts/211th-District-Court

Children & Adolescent Therapy Practice

Juvenile & Defense Attorney Brent Bowen with The Law Office of Brent D. Bowen, PLLC www.brentbowen.com Law Firm Elsey & Elsey, Attorneys at Law www.elseylaw.com Oil & Gas Attorney Richard Hayes with Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP www.hbwvlaw.com Oil & Gas Law Firm Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP www.hbwvlaw.com Personal Injury Attorney Rocky Haire with Rocky Haire Injury Lawyers www.rockyhaire.com Personal Injury Law Firm Rocky Haire Injury Lawyers www.rockyhaire.com Real Estate Attorney Jill Jester with Minor & Jester, P.C. www.minorandjester.com

Charla Bradshaw with KoonsFuller Family Law

Allergy Center

Traffic Tickets Attorney Travis Biggs with Biggs Law Firm www.biggslaw.com Wills & Estate Planning Attorney Adam Burrows with Burrows Law Group www.burrowsatlaw.com Wills & Estate Planning Law Firm Minor & Jester, P.C. www.minorandjester.com

Medical Services Allergist Sherry Barnett, M.D. with Flower Mound Allergy Asthma Center www.flowermoundallergyasthmacenter.com

Connections Wellness Group Our focus is treating anything causing you discomfort by connecting you to lasting solutions. www.Connections WellnessGroup.com 2701 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 151 Denton, TX 76210

(940) 222-2399 (Read on Pg. 12) Chiropractic Practice Flower Mound Chiropractic www.flowermoundchiropractic.com Chiropractor Nick Ponomarenko, D.C. with Flower Mound Chiropractic www.flowermoundchiropractic.com

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Cosmetic Dentist

Doctor Anna Broadnax, M.D. with Questcare Medical Clinic of Flower Mound www.questcaremedicalclinic.com/primarycare-locations/flower-mound-primary-care

in-home care

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Emergency Care

Dr. Titensor with Titensor Dental Steven Titensor, DDS, PA Brett Titensor, DDS Thank You for Voting us Best Cosmetic Dentist & Best Dental Implant Dentist in Denton County. www.TitensorDental.com 1901 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 320 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(972) 355-9545 (Read on Pg. 14) Couples & Family Therapist Brad Cullum, M.A., L.P.C., E.M.D.R. with Redeemed Life Counseling, LLC www.redeemedlifecounseling.com

Couples & Family Therapy Practice

Heaven at Home Senior Care Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Flower Mound Making stays restful and comfortable and visits smooth and enjoyable is the goal for employees and physicians on the medical staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Flower Mound.

www.TexasHealth FlowerMound.com 4400 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(469) 322-7000 Endodontist Rajiv Patel, B.D.S., D.D.S with Endodontic Excellence www.endoxl.com

Family Dentist

(940) 222-8552 Dental implant dentist

Matthew Artho, DDS with Country Lakes Family Dental Country Lakes Family Dental is family owned and operated providing quality care with a gentle touch. www.CountryLakesDental.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 200 Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 455-7645 (Read on Pg. 20) General Dental Practice Cross Timbers Dental www.crosstimbersdental.com

Amit M Patel, D.D.S., M.S.D., with ROOT Periodontal and Implant Centers Thank You for Voting Our Team as Best Periodontal Practice for 5 Years In a Row! www.ROOTdfw.com 651 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 434-8050

General Practice Physician Jack A. Maxwell, D.O with Lake Cities Medical Center Family Practice www.texashealth.org/provider/jack-amaxwell-do-family-medicine General Surgeon Chad E. Treece, M.D., F.A.C.S www.assocofsurgery.com

Dermatology Practice McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics www.mcguinessdermatology.com

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(940) 380-0500

(972) 539-1491

(Read on Pg. 24)

(Read on Pg. 10)

Labor & Delivery Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Flower Mound www.texashealthflowermound.com Medical Massage Flower Mound Medical Massage www.fmmedicalmassage.com

Men’s Wellness & Hormone Therapy Physician

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center DFW Oral Surgeons www.dfworalsurgeons.com Orthodontist Kimberly Gronberg, D.D.S., M.S. with Gronberg Orthodontics www.gronbergorthodontics.com Orthopedic Physician Michael J. Willenborg, M.D. with Orthopedic Associates www.orthopedicassociates.org

Lowell Phipps, M.D. with Phipps Family Medicine Better living by focusing on diet, exercise, self-care and positive thinking.

2014 Justin Rd., Ste. 104 Highland Village, TX 75077

(972) 317-1400 (Read on Pg. 23) Mental Health Professional Redeemed Life Counseling, LLC www.redeemedlifecounseling.com Midwifery Care Caring for Women Obstetrics & Gynecology www.cfwdenton.com Myofunctional Therapy Kimberly White Speech & Myofunctional Therapy www.myofunctionaltherapist.com/ kimberly-white

Hospice Mercy Hospice www.mercyhospicetx.com

Nerve Treatment Texas Partners Healthcare Group of Flower Mound www.txphealthcare.com

Hospital Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Flower Mound www.texashealthflowermound.com

OB/GYN Physician Christina A. Dooley, M.D. with Denton Obstetrics & Gynecology www.dentonob.com

(Read on Pg. 18) Dermatologist Dr. Michael McGuiness with McGuiness Dermatology & Aesthetics www.mcguinessdermatology.com

Thank You for Voting Us Best Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and Best Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center in Denton County. www.DFWOralSurgeons.com 4421 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 100 Flower Mound, TX 75028

orthopedic practice

Redeemed Life Counseling, LLC Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Codependency, Relationship Issues & Much More www.RedeemedLife Counseling.com 415 S Hwy 377, Ste. 102 Argyle, TX 76226

We provide a wide array of home care services, whether you need 24/7 round the clock care or just part time assistance to relieve a family member who is acting as the primary caregiver. www.HeavenAtHomeCare.com 623 Londonderry Ln. Denton, TX 76206

Dr. John C. Shillingburg with DFW Oral Surgeons

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Orthopedic Associates FInd help for all your orthopedic needs close to home. www.OrthopedicAssociates.org 500 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 2515 S Scripture St. Denton, TX 76201

(972) 420-1776 Pediatric dental practice

Pediatric Dental World

OB/GYN Practice Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates www.fmobgyn.com

We specialize in pediatric dentistry so your child leaves our office with a healthy smile and a positive attitude towards dental health.

Ophthalmogist Russell W. Snook, M.D. with North Dallas Eye Associates of Denton www.northdallaseye.com

www.PediatricDentalWorld.com 2300 Village Pkwy.

Highland Village, TX 75077

Optometrist Janet Ogletree, O.D.with Ogletree Eye Care www.ogletreeeyecare.com

(972) 317-6997 (Read on Pg. 16) facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Pediatric Dentist Jason Clapp, D.D.S. with Pediatric Dental World www.pediatricdentalworld.com

Pediatric Occupational Therapy Clinic

Stepping Stones Therapy for Kids Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Speech Therapy www.SteppingStonesTherapy.net

3605 Yucca Dr., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 874-9400 Pediatric Practice Kid’s First Pediatrics www.kidsfirstpediatrics.com

Psychiatry Practice Connections Wellness Group www.connectionswellnessgroup.com

Mobile Pet Grooming & Washing Paw Control www.facebook.com/PawControl

Regenerative Medicine Epic Healthcare & Physical Medicine www.epichealthflowermound.com

Pet Boarding

Senior / Assisted Living Facility Carriage House Assisted Living www.carriagehouseofdenton.com SENIOR SERVICES CONSULTANT Lori Williams with Lori Williams Senior Services, LLC www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com SPEECH PATHOLOGIST Kimberly White Speech & Myofunctional Therapy www.myofunctionaltherapist.com/ kimberly-white SPEECH PATHOLOGY CENTER Stepping Stones Therapy for Kids www.steppingstonestherapy.net

Substance Abuse Treatment Facility

Pediatrician

Convenient Weekend & Evening Hours

www.KidsFirstPediatrics.com 2200 Village Pkwy.

Highland Village, TX 75077

(972) 317-6000 (Read on Pg. 32) Periodontist Amit M Patel, D.D.S., M.S.D., with ROOT Periodontal and Implant Centers www.rootdfw.com Pharmacy Flower Mound Pharmacy www.flowermoundpharmacy.com Physical Therapist Doug Soell, P.T., M.P.T., O.C.S., C.E.R.T., D.N., C.G.F.I., with Velocity velocity-pt.com Physical Therapy Practice Velocity Physical Therapy velocity-pt.com Plastic Surgeon Drew Sanderson, M.D., with Flower Mound Plastic Surgery Center www.flowermoundplasticsurgery.com Podiatrist Damien Dauphinée, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., F.A.E.N.S., F.A.C.C.S.W., C.W.S.-P., with Complete Foot and Ankle Care of North Texas www.damiendauphinee.com

Psychiatrist

Deanna Dial, D.O. with Dial Psychiatry Dr. Dial is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She is also board certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Preventative Medicine. www.DialPsychiatry.com 1033 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 4 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 755-9435 www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Swirl Bakery Canine Courtyard 5 Outdoor Play Areas 3 Indoor Air Conditioned Play Areas 3 Outstanding Groomers Private & Group Pet Training www.CanineCourtyard.com 3209 Justin Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 724-2157

Marla Conger, M.D., F.A.A.P., with Kids First Pediatrics

Pet food & Supplies

Santé Center for Healing Assessments, Medical Detox, Residential, Intensive Outpatient, Transitional Living, Trauma and Codependency Intensive Workshops, Individual and Family Therapy. www.SanteCenter.com 914 Country Club Rd. Argyle, TX 76226

(940) 464-7222 TRAUMA COUNSELING OUTPATIENT CENTER Hopemead www.hopemead.com Urgent Care Rapid Med Urgent Care www.rapidmed.com Wellness Studio Pure Synergy Wellness & Movement of Corinth www.puresynergydfw.com

Pet Services Equestrian Services Brawley Farms www.brawleyfarmsinc.com

Feed & Hardware Store

Argyle Feed Offering everything from animal and pet supplies to hardware & sporting goods to lawn and garden supplies & more.

Argyle Feed has the latest technology for check-out while supplying old school values & service by making sure each customer never carries out their own bags. www.ArygleFeedStore.com 1832 E FM 407 Argyle, TX 76226

(940) 241-2444

bistro

Thank you for voting us Best Bistro & Best Catering Casual.

Catering menus available for pick up and online.

Gift cards available. www.SwirlBakery.com 3634 Long Prairie Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75022

(214) 513-1334 Breakfast Snooty Pig Cafe of Argyle www.snootypig.com Buffalo Wings Buffalo Wild Wings of Highland Village www.buffalowildwings.com Buffet Chinatown Cafe www.chinatowncafedenton.com Cake Bakery Candy Haven & Cakes www.candyhavenandcakes.com

Hollywood Feed Thank you for voting us Best Pet Food & Supplies in Denton County.

If your pet doesn’t love it or if you don’t love it, we will gladly replace or refund it! www.HollywoodFeed.com 3400 FM 407E, Ste. 200-30 Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 584-0832 Pet Grooming Happy Dog Spa www.happydogspa.com Pet Photography Photography by Sheila www.photographybysheila.com Pet Sitting / Dog Walking Angel Pet Watch www.angelpetwatch.com Pet Training Paula’s Canine Academy www.paulascanineacademy.com Veterinarian Dr. Leigh Anne Robertson with Lantana Animal Hospital www.lantanaanimalhospital.com Veterinary Clinic Animal Medical Center of Highland Village www.animalmedicalcenterhv.com Veterinary Hospital Main Street Veterinary Hospital www.mainstreetpets.com

Restaurant and Food Services Barbecue Marty B’s www.martybsplace.com

Catering - Casual Swirl Bakery www.swirlbakery.com

Catering - fine dining

Salerno’s Italian Restaurant A Local Tradition for 30 Years Award Wining Dining Newly Remodeled Bar Catering Available www.SalernosItalian.com 2250 FM 407, Ste. 130 Highland Village, TX 75077

(972) 539-9534 Cheesesteak Burgers & Brats www.burgersandbrats.com Chinese Restaurant China Island Asian Grill www.chinaislandasiangrill.com Cookies The Flour Shop Bakery theflour.shop Cup of Coffee Edison Coffee Co. www.edisoncoffeeco.com Cupcake The Flour Shop Bakery theflour.shop Deli The Original Joey O’s www.theoriginaljoeyos.com

SEE NEXT PAGE > Best of Denton County 2019

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Dessert Menu

Italian Restaurant Salerno Italian Restaurant www.salernositalian.com Japanese Hibachi Asahi Teppanyaki & Sushi www.eatatasahi.com

Lunch

The Flour Shop Bakery

Dinner Hillside Bar and Grill www.hillsidegrillhighlandvillage.com Donuts Sara’s Donut Story www.sarasdonutstory.com Family Dining Marty B’s www.martybsplace.com

Verf’s Grill & Tavern

We use our hands and knives to create our food from scratch and never compromise any of our dishes by taking shortcuts. www.Verfs.com 2221 Justin Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

Mexican restaurant

Fresco’s Mexicana

Formerly the Grotto Award Winning Dining Catering & Bar www.BisteccaSteakhouse.com 2300 Highland Village Rd. Highland Village, TX 75077

(972) 318-0515

French Fries Smashburger www.smashburger.com Frozen Desserts (Ice Cream, Gelato, Snowcone) Bahama Bucks of Double Oak www.bahamabucks.com Gluten Free Menu Costa Vida www.costavida.com

Men’s Clothing Store JT Clothiers of Denton www.jtclothiers.com

Eyewear Total Eyecare & Eyewear of Denton www.totaleyecare.com

Natural Organic Store

Furniture Consignment Store Second Home Furniture www.secondhome.furniture Furniture Restoration Vintage Bleu Home www.facebook.com/VintageBleu

Furniture Store

Celebrating Fiesta Foods Private Dining Rooms Available Patio & Cabanas for Semi-Privacy Sunday 11am - 8:30pm Happy Hour Tues - Fri 4 - 7pm Black Angus Steaks & Fajitas Closed on Mondays www.frescosmexicanfood.com 2420 Justin Rd. Highland Village, TX 75077

Adams Furniture in Justin Thank You for Voting Us BEST Furniture Store in Denton County Making Happy Customers Since 1938!

ShopAdamsFurniture.com 417 FM 156 Justin, TX 76247

Patio Dining Marty B’s www.martybsplace.com Pizza Pi Squared Pizza Tavern www.pisquaredpizza.com Queso Torchy’s Tacos of Highland Village www.torchystacos.com

Resale Shop Upscale Resale: Benefiting Denton County Friends of The Family www.dcfof.org/thriftstore

Shopping Center

The Shops at Highland Village EXTENSIVE COLLECTION OF FINE JEWELRY Custom Designs, Ring Sizing, Restoration of Heirlooms, Jewelry Repair, Watch Batteries, Appraisals & Stringing Celebrating 45 Years of Service www.EhrhartJewelers.com 260 S I-35E, Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76205

(940) 382-5454

Salad Salata www.salata.com

Hamburger LSA Burger Co. www.lsaburger.com

Seafood Hoochies www.hoochiesdenton.com

Happy Hour Food Barley & Board www.barleyandboard.com

Steakhouse Bistecca – An Italian Steakhouse www.bisteccasteakhouse.com

Healthy Menu TruFit Foods – Meal Prep www.trufitfoods.com

Sushi Komodo Loco www.komodoloco.com

Interior Decorating Shop Bella Designs www.facebook.com/BellaDesigns-147716485299284

Ice cream shop Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream www.bethmaries.com

Thai Restaurant Noodle Swing Thai Cafe www.noodleswing.com

Jewelry Store Duff’s Fine Jewelry www.duffsjewelry.com

Indian Restaurant Ista Indian Cuisine www.istaus.com

Vegan Restaurant Spiral Diner www.spiraldiner.com

Jewelry Store - Consignment Ehrhart’s Jewelers www.ehrhartjewelers.com

Best of Denton County 2019

(Read on Pg. 92)

Gold & Silver Exchange

Guacamole Fresco’s Mexicana www.frescosmexicanfood.com

122 |

Natural and Holistic Products for You, Your Home & Your Pet! www.NaturesCBD Mercantile.com 2038 W. University Denton, TX 76201

(940) 648-3145

(972) 317-3628 New Restaurant (open under 12 months) The Tavern at Lakeside www.tavernlakesideflowermound.com

Nature’s Mercantile + CBD Store

(940) 999-4365

(972) 317-3390

Fine Dining

Bistecca - An Italian Steakhouse

Consignment Store Clothes Mentor of Highland Village www.clothesmentor.com

Fashion Shoe Store Brightside Boutique www.brightsideboutique.net

Thank you for voting us Best Cookies, Best Cupcake & Best Dessert Menu in Denton County

(972) 355-3600

Kid’s Clothing Store Half-Pint Children’s Boutique www.halfpintchildrensboutique.com

Fashion Accessories Hello Daffodil www.hellodaffodilboutique.com

Let us do the baking for you!

You have the fun.

We do the work.

www.TheFlour.Shop 6100 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Shopping & Retail

(Read on Pg. 95) Grilling & BBQ Store Charred Grills and Outdoor www.charredtx.com

Style In Store theshopsathighlandvillage.com NW Corner of FM 2499 & FM 407

(972) 317-7500 Specialty Shoe Store Foot Solutions of Flower Mound www.footsolutions.com/flower-mound Specialty Shop Old Town Market www.oldtownmkt.com Supermarket Market Street of Flower Mound www.marketstreetunited.com Women’s Clothing Store Hello Daffodil www.hellodaffodilboutique.com

Home Decor & Gifts Bella Designs www.bella-designs.net

Specialty Services Airport Transportation Service RushTrips Transportation, LLC www.rushtrips.com

Like Us on Facebook!

BestofDentonCounty facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

art studio

photographer

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUY T

What’s That Guy’s Name?

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY GUY T Art House www.StudioArtHouse.com 6100 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 800 Flower Mound, TX 75028 2608 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 205 Flower Mound, TX 75022

(214) 285-0084 Artist Lt. Dan Metal Works www.ltdanmetalworks.com Birthing Doula Mother Bear Doula Services www.motherbeardoulaservices.com Blogger - Writing Service Edit This www.editthisllc.com Cargo / Trailer Rental U-Haul Moving & Storage of Denton www.uhaul.com Coaching Service - Personal Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com Delivery Service The Fluff Factory Gourmet Cotton Candy of Little Elm www.theflufffactorytx.com Drug, alcohol & medical screening North Texas Screening www.northtexasscreening.com Embroidery Stitchin’ and More Custom Graphics www.facebook.com/stitchinandmore Firearms Training Eagle Gun Range www.eaglegunrangetx.com Floral Shop T & T Flowers & Gifts www.facebook.com/ttweddingflowers Limousine Transportation RushTrips Transportation, LLC www.rushtrips.com Margarita Machine Rental Rockin Ritas www.rockinritas.com

Headshots • Portraits Professionals • Seniors Fine Art Convenient online bookings with appointments that work best for you. www.WhatsThatGuysName.com WhatsThatGuysName@live.com

Party Rentals PJ’s Party Rental & Essentials www.pjspartyrental.com Photobooth Rental Picture This! Photo & Video Booth Rentals www.picturethisdfw.com

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Wedding & Event Venue The Grove www.thegroveaubreytexas.com

Coaching Service - Sports Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com

Wedding Planner Big Day Coordination www.bigdaycoordination.com

CrossFit CrossFit Flower Mound www.crossfitflowermound.com

Wedding Videography Chevy Chey Photo & Video www.chevycheyphotography.com

Cryotherapy Clinic Cryo Clinic www.thecryoclinic.com

Writing & Editing Services

Dance Studio Top Hat Dance Centre, Inc. www.tophatdance.com

equestrian Stables

Edit This® Picture Framing CadillaC Art & Frame www.cadillacartandframe.com Private Investigator Aces Private Investigations www.dallasprivateinvestigations.com Professional Organizer Crystal Nerpel with Cloud Nine Organizing www.cloudnineorganizing.com Recording Studio Café Solo Studios www.cafesolostudios.com Screen Printing Six Stitch Apparel www.sixstitchapparel.com Special Occasion Deliveries Baskets by FrankieLynn www.basketsbyfrankielynn.com Summer Camp Briarwood Retreat Center www.briarwoodretreat.org Tattoo Artist David Mushaney with Rebel Muse Tattoo www.rebelmusetattoo.com

Tattoo Studio

Dark Age Tattoo Creating Amazing Works of Art

By Amazing Artists www.DarkAgeTattoo Studio.com 124 W. Oak St. Denton, TX 76201

(940) 898-8200 (Read on Pg. 72) TRANSPORTATION SERVICE

Writing / Editing / Proofreading Content writing for websites, blogs, resumes, newsletters and more. www.EditThisLLC.com steve@editthisllc.com Edit This

(469) 360-3611 (Read on Pg. 68)

Door 2 Door Shuttle Transportation Solutions to Fit Every Situation Door2DoorShuttle.com

(972) 987-0346

Brawley Farms Riding lessons for all levels on safe, reliable school horses.

Hunters | Jumpers | Equitation Full Service Care | Show Program www.BrawleyFarmsInc.com 200 Simmons Rd. Double Oak, TX 75077

(760) 801-6655 (Read on Pg. 82)

Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Barre Studio

Pure Barre Lift your seat, tone your thighs and burn fat in record time.

Discover the workout that is transforming bodies nationwide. www.PureBarre.com 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 825 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Fitness Center Shapes Fitness For Women flowermound.shapesfitnessforwomen.com Football association Flower Mound Youth Football Association www.fmyfa.com

Golf Club - Public

(972) 539-3065 Old American Golf Club Batting Cages D-BAT Lewisville www.dbatlewisville.com baseball association Highland Village Area (HVABSA) www.hvabsa.com

Basketball Association

Cross Timbers YMCA

Music Lessons Lone Star Music Academy www.lonestarmusicacademy.com

Party DJ David Hodges with DH Productions www.dh-productions.com

Cheer Studio Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com

(469) 500-5657

Music Instructor Christina Kim with Lone Star Music Academy www.lonestarmusicacademy.com

Party & Event Supplies PJ’s Party Rental & Essentials www.pjspartyrental.com

Wedding & Event Florist Mickey’s Florist www.mickeysflorist.com

We’re for Youth Development, Healthy Living, Social Responsibility, Youth Sports, Wellness Classes and More www.CrossTimbersYMCA.org 2021 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 (972) 539-9622 bicycle shop North Texas Bikes www.northtexasbikes.com Bootcamp Instructor Jana Reed with Camp Gladiator www.campgladiator.com

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Old American is primarily a club for the passionate golfer with access to our intimate golf and dining experience.

Thank You for Voting Us Best in Denton County for 7 Years in a Row! www.OldAmericanGolfClub.com 1001 Lebanon Rd. The Colony, TX 75056

(972) 370-4653 Golf Course - Private Lantana Golf Club www.lantanagolf.com Golf Instructor Becca Bailey with Hank Haney hankhaney.com

SEE NEXT PAGE FOR MORE CATEGORIES > Best of Denton County 2019

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Personal Trainer Jesse James Leyva with Jesse James Fit www.jessejamesfit.com

Gymnastics

Bar & Nightlife

Personal Training Facility

Bar Patio East Side Denton eastsidedenton.com Bar Staff The Bearded Monk www.beardedmonk.com

Win Kids Gymnastics • Karate • Dance Parent & Child Classes WK Ninja Warriors Sports Kids Tumbling & Trampoline Academic Preschool Birthday Parties • Summer Camps Holiday Camps • Parent’s Night Out www.WinKids.net 3000 Waketon Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 355-9988 Health Food Store Sprout’s Farmers Market of Flower Mound www.sprouts.com

Indoor Bootcamp

Beer Selection What’s on Tap whatsontapbeer.com

Individual Personal Training Group & Family Personal Training Athletic Performance Training Couples Performance Training www.JesseJamesFit.com 1001 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 1200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 355-2639 (Read on Pg. 86) In-Home Personal Training Precision Personal Training www.precisionfitpros.com Kickboxing 9 Round www.9round.com Martial Arts Studio Championship Martial Arts www.lantanatkd.com Nutrition & Supplements Store Precision Sports Nutrition www.psnsupps.com

Happy Hour Milpa Kitchen & Cantina milparestaurant.com Margaritas Milpa Kitchen & Cantina milparestaurant.com

(Read on Pg. 86)

Mixed Drinks Komodo Loco www.komodoloco.com

Pilates Instructor Kylie Riggs with Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.crosstimbersymca.org

Sports Facility Cross Timbers Family YMCA www.ymcadallas.org/locations/cross_timbers

Indoor Bootcamp Classes Group & Family Personal Training 24 Hour Gym www.OutlawFitcamp.com 1001 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste. 1200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Drink Menu East Side Denton eastsidedenton.com

(972) 355-2639

Pilates Studio The Pilates Barre www.thepilatesbarre.com

Outlaw Fitcamp

Craft Beer Selection East Side Denton eastsidedenton.com

Jesse James Fit

Sports Massage Center Pure Synergy Wellness & Movement of Corinth www.puresynergydfw.com Sports Massage Therapist Carrie Zala With Sports Massage & Wellness Coaching www.facebook.com/ TherapeuticMassagebyCarrieZala Sports organization Flower Mound Youth Sport Association (FMYSA) www.fmysa.com Swimming Instruction Amy’s Aquatics www.amysaquatics.com Weight Loss Center Jesse James Fit www.jessejamesfit.com Weight Loss Treatment Amazing Weight Loss www.weightlossflowermoundtx.com

Nutritionist / Dietitian - Certified Debbie Hammett with Serious Results www.serious-results.com

Yoga Instructor Jennifer Wilford with Inspire Yoga of Highland Village www.inspireyoga.com

Outdoor Bootcamp Camp Gladiator www.campgladiator.com

Yoga Studio Inspire Yoga of Highland Village www.inspireyoga.com

The Students’ Choice Award was given to businesses to whom students in Denton county chose as the best.

Voting was open to Students of all ages from Elementary to University for businesses that related to them.

Sports Bar Jack’s Tavern www.jacksdenton.com

Beauty Services Color Salon Denton Color Lab www.dentoncolorlab.com Eyelash Extensions Crystal’s Essentials Lash & Skincare Studio www.crystalsessentials.com Facials Crystal’s Essentials Lash & Skincare Studio www.crystalsessentials.com

Automotive Services Auto Mechanic Shop Lewisville Truck Center www.lewisvilletruckcenter.com Auto Repair Shop Lewisville Truck Center www.lewisvilletruckcenter.com Car Dealership Classic of Denton www.classicofdenton.com

Hair Salon M.O. Hair www.facebook.com/MOHairdenton Massage Spa Essentials Day Spa essentials-dayspa.com Nail Salon Bella Salon and Spa www.facebook.com/BellaSalonSpaDenton Tanning Salon Tan Evolution www.tanevolutiontan.com

Oil Change

Community & Non Profit Animal Non-Profit Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF) www.dentonasf.com Charity Organization Make-A-Wish North Texas ntx.wish.org

Tommy’s Hi-Tech Auto Repair

Print • Digital • Web • Marketing

www.Murray-Media.com 124 |

Best of Denton County 2019

We Fix Everything!

Quality Work Done Right www.TommyHT.com 620 Fort Worth Dr. Denton, TX 76201

(940) 222-4491

Church Youth Group First Baptist Church of Lewisville fbclewisville.org Youth Club Studio B Performing Arts Center www.studiobtheater.com

Like Us on Facebook!

BestofDentonCounty

facebook.com/BestofDentonCounty

Education Coach Jeff Sherman with Marcus High School www.lisd.net/mhs Elementary School McAuliffe Elementary School www.lisd.net/mcauliffe High School Flower Mound High School www.lisd.net/fmhs Middle School Briarhill Middle School www.lisd.net/Domain/50 Principal Jennifer Mattingly with McAuliffe Elementary School www.lisd.net/mcauliffe Teacher/Professor Jennifer Rodgers with Downing Middle School www.lisd.net/downing

Tutoring

KD College Prep Flower Mound Campus (214) 285-3500 Coppell Campus (972) 906-8825 Additional Campuses in Colleyville, Frisco & Plano www.KDCollegePrep.com (Read on Pg. 64) University MSU of Flower Mound msutexas.edu/flowermound

Entertainment & Travel Birthday Party Venue Escape Rooms HQ escaperoomshq.com Games & Arcades Freaks and Geeks www.facebook.com/FreaksAndGeeksllc

Legal Services Criminal Attorney

Ben Hunsucker Hunsucker Legal Group National Top 100 Trial Lawyers www.HunsuckerLegal Group.com 903 East McKinney St. Denton, TX 76209

(940) 484-5000 Criminal Law Firm Hunsucker Legal Group hunsuckerlegalgroup.com

Medical Services Cosmetic Dentist Norman J. Pomerance D.D.S. www.njpomerancedds.com Dental Practice Family Smiles Dental Group familysmilesdg.com Doctor Dr. Jennifer Bontreger with Southern Horizon Healthcare www.southernhorizon.org Family Dentist Dr. Jenifer Nichols, D.D.S. with Family Smiles Dental Group familysmilesdg.com Hospital Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton www.texashealth.org/denton Orthodontist Matt Brown, D.D.S. with MB Orthodontics, PLLC www.mbrownortho.com

Pet Services Pet Groomer Nails 2 Tails www.nails2tailstexas.com Pet Spa & Boarding Dogtopia of Highland Village www.dogtopia.com/highland-village

Financial & Real Estate Apartment Community City Parc at Fry Street (940) 384-7272 Insurance Agency McManis Farmers Insurance Agency www.lantanainsurance.com Student Bank PointBank www.pointbank.com

Veterinarian Dr. Carol Eddy, D.V.M. with Corinth Veterinary Clinic www.corinthvetclinic.com

Restaurants

Barbeque Fat Cow BBQ www.fatcowbbq.com Breakfast Spiral Diner www.spiraldiner.com

Want a Head Start 0n Next Year?

Sign Up for Our Newsletter at BestofDentonCounty.com to See When Nominations Begin in 2020!

www.BestofDentonCounty.com

Deli New York Sub Hub newyorksubhub.com

Fitness Center Shapes Fitness For Women flowermound.shapesfitnessforwomen.com

Dessert Menu Heavenly Taylored Sweets heavenlytayloredsweets.com

Gymnastics Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com

Dinner Yellow Rose Steak & Chop House yellowrosesteakhouse.com

Martial Arts Studio Championship Martial Arts lantanatkd.com

Fine Dining Barley & Board www.barleyandboard.com

Nutrition & Supplement Store GNC of Denton www.gnc.com

Gluten Free Menu Juice Lab juicelabdentontx.com

Personal Trainer Scott Wissel with Scott Wissel Personal Training www.scottwissel.com

Hamburger RG Burger & Grill www.rgtexas.com Healthy Menu Juice Lab juicelabdentontx.com Lunch New York Sub Hub newyorksubhub.com Mexican Food Rusty Taco rustytaco.com Pizza TJ’s Pizza of Denton www.tjspizzawnt.com Salad Sidewalk Cafe www.sidewalkcafedenton.com

Personal Training Facility Scott Wissel Personal Training www.scottwissel.com Pilates Instructor S2S Functional Performance s2sperform.com Sports Facilities Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com Yoga Instructor Tatiana Romero with Inspire Yoga inspireyoga.com Yoga Studio Inspire Yoga inspireyoga.com

Seafood Mrs. Lively’s Cajun Konnection www.mrslivelys.com Sushi J Sushi www.facebook.com/JSushiRestaurant Vegan Viet Bites www.vietbites.com

Shopping & Retail Consignment Store Thrift Giant of Denton www.thriftgiantevents.com Resale Shop SCRAP Denton scrapdenton.org

Specialty Services Floral Shop T & T Flowers & Gifts www.facebook.com/ttweddingflowers music intructor Heather Parks with New Song Music Studio newsongschoolofthearts.com Photographer Jordan Blalock Photography www.jordanblalockphoto.com Tattoo Studio Dark Age Tattoo Studio www.darkagetattoostudio.com

Sports & Fitness

Buffet Chinatown Cafe www.chinatowncafedenton.com

Barre Studio Pure Barre of Flower Mound www.purebarre.com/tx-flowermound

Cake Bakery The Flour Shop Bakery theflour.shop

Cheer Studio Excite! Gym & Cheer www.excitegym.com

Cup of Coffee Golden Boy Coffee Co. goldenboycoffee.com

Coaching Service - Sports Scott Wissel Personal Training www.scottwissel.com

Cupcakes The Flour Shop Bakery theflour.shop

Dance Studio Imagery In Motion Dance www.imdance.com

We’d like to thank everyone in Denton County who nominated and voted for their favorite businesses. It’s because of your support that these winners are able to shine. We hope that you join us again in 2020 during our summer nominations.

If you’re a business owner in Denton County who would like to participate please join our newsletter on our website for exclusive updates, news and information regarding voting. from the Best of Denton County Team BestofDentonCounty.com

SEE NEXT PAGE > Best of Denton County 2019

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Sponsored

Pediatric Dental Practice

Top Three

Dental Care 4 Kids Our warm, friendly and always-positive approach helps to foster a lifetime of dental health. We welcome parents to come back into our treatment areas for each visit.

August 19th, 2019 at Fresco’s Mexicana.

Photos courtesy of Picture This!

Photography

www.DentalCare4KidsTexas.com

2260 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 874-2800 (Read on Pg. 22)

Pediatrician

Denton County nominated businesses for Best of Denton County and from those nominations the Top 3 with the most nominations were crowned Top 3 Best. Below are a few of the outstanding businesses who received this award.

Rebecca Butler, M.D., F.A.A.P. with Lantana Pediatrics Dr. Rebecca Butler Would like to Thank You for Voting Her Top 3 Best Pediatrician. www.LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 455-7200 Cosmetic Dentist

eyelash extensions

The Lash Lounge

Samantha Leatherwood Leatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry A Smile is the Prettiest Thing You Can Wear! www.LeatherWoodDental.com 4400 Teasley Ln., Ste. 300 Denton, TX 76210

Eyelash Extensions Lash Lifts Eyebrow & Eyelash Tinting Eyebrow Threading www.TheLashLounge.com 5801 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 830 Flower Mound, TX 75028

(Read on Pg. 21) photographer

Your Candid Memories

(972) 808-5274

Thank You for Voting Us Top 3 for Best Photographer in Denton County Family, Newborn & Kid Photography www.YourCandid Memories.com

(Read on Pg. 81)

(469) 583-2819

Heating / Air Repair

Real Estate Buyer’s Agent

(940) 220-5858 Criminal Law Firm Student’s Choice

The Jimenez Law Firm, P.C. www.TheJimenezLawFirm.com 2800 Corporate Dr., Ste. 203 Flower Mound, TX 75028 1760 S. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 170 Lewisville, TX 75067

(214) 513-0125

Calvin’s Climate We service & repair all makes and models, along with custom design & installation. www.CalvinsClimate.com 2809 Justin Rd. Highland Village, TX 75028

(972) 691-4000

Jeff Brand with Brand Properties Group Hassle-Free Move!

No Seller Repairs Free Moving Boxes + Labels Inside the Box© Packing Service www.BrandPropertiesGroup.com 2611 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

(972) 539-6555 (Read on Pg. 103)

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Photo Booth @

Winner’s Party

by Picture This!

At this year’s Best of Denton County Winner’s Party hosted on September 27th, 2019 at Bistecca, guests enjoyed a fun photo booth courtesy of Picture This! Photography.

(817) 300-7469 • www.PictureThisDFW.com

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Hair your

is our business

F

by Steve Gamel

For six years, David Ryan Salon in Flower Mound has proven to be the standard-bearer when it comes to making you look and feel your absolute best.

Hands-down, they have the top hairdressers in the industry and loyal guests who are clamoring to schedule an appointment with their favorite stylist.

Guests clearly know a good thing when they see it. This is a big reason why David Ryan Salon is as popular as it is and continues to defend its Best of Denton County crown every year.

The salon was voted Best Color Salon for a sixth year.

“We want to be the best, not just for ourselves but for our guests, too,” David Ryan said. His friends and clients call him Ryan. “We are happiest when our clients say they trust us with their hair. They feel throughout the entire process — from consultation to completion — that we genuinely listen to their needs and desires and apply years of experience and expertise

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Best of Denton County 2019

in order to build a service plan that will get our clients to their desired results.”

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