Flower Mound, TX April 2026

Creative Elements

Thinking about making some changes in your home? Dreaming about a new kitchen or bathroom you saw on Pinterest or Houzz? Whether it is changing your current look for more modern, clean lines, updating the traditional to more transitional,or simply making your space more functional, Creative Elements is ready to make your next step a reality

| 817.793.6061 |

April Can Be Taxing

April often brings one word to mind: taxes. For many of us, this season can feel overwhelming as we gather documents, meet with accountants, and focus on deadlines. While tax time demands our financial attention, it also offers something else. It offers an opportunity to reflect on how and where we are investing our energy, our resources, and ourselves.

Investment is not only about portfolios and returns. It is about the choices we make every day that shape our future. Yes, we want to make wise financial decisions for our families and our businesses. But true wealth also includes mental clarity, physical health, strong relationships, and a thriving community.

In this April Investment Issue, we are proud to feature local experts who share insight across a variety of topics. From financial planning and smart business strategies to wellness practices and personal development, these voices remind us that growth happens in many forms. Investing in yourself might look like meeting with a financial advisor, but it could also mean scheduling that overdue wellness appointment, committing to a fitness routine, or simply creating space to rest and reset.

Our local business leaders also understand that investment is about more than profit. It is about pouring back into the community, supporting one another, and building something sustainable for the next generation. When we choose to shop local, collaborate, and mentor others, we strengthen the economic and social fabric of our city.

This month, as you review spreadsheets and tax statements, I encourage you to pause and ask a bigger question. Are you investing in the life you truly want to build? Are you caring for your mental and physical health with the same intention you give your finances?

When we commit to investing in ourselves, our businesses, and our community, we create returns that extend far beyond April. We build resilience. We build opportunity. And together, we build a stronger future for everyone.

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Britt Barber | britt.barber@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ashton Burns | ashton.burns@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ty Harper Photography, Macy Alex Photography, Merrick Multimedia, Karen Laine Photography, Dallas McNeal Photography

STAFF WRITERS

Fatima Durrani, Isabella Van Trease, Tiffany Ditto

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Simon Trask, Angela Broockerd, Jamie Milstead, Julie Barlow

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Blackall Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

1-5: The State of the Cities Luncheon brought together city leaders and the business communities of Flower Mound, Lewisville, and Highland Village for an impactful afternoon of insight and connection. Attendees received key updates on economic development, infrastructure, growth, and future initiatives shaping each community. The event fostered collaboration, celebrated regional progress, and highlighted the shared vision driving these cities forward. A powerful reminder of what’s possible when leadership and business unite to support continued growth and opportunity across the region.

Jeffery D. Price, CPFA® Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor 817.410.4940 jeffery_price@ml.com Congratulations to Price & Associates for being ranked No. 1 in the state of Texas - North (High Net Worth) on the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2026 list. Published on January 7, 2026. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2025.

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 601 State Street Suite 100 Southlake, TX 76092 advisor.ml.com/sites/tx/southlake-tx/price

Raising Money-Smart Kids

TEACHING FINANCIAL LITERACY AT EVERY AGE

ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TY HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

In a world of one-click purchases, digital wallets, and instant gratification, teaching children the value of money is more important than ever. Financial literacy is not just about dollars and cents. It is about responsibility, discipline, confidence, and long-term security. When we start early and build intentionally, we give the next generation one of the greatest gifts possible: financial independence and opportunity.

Financial stress is one of the leading causes of anxiety in adulthood. When we teach children how to earn, save, invest, and spend wisely, we give them more than knowledge. We give them confidence and freedom.

Here is how to teach money skills at every stage, from preschool to young adulthood.

EARLY CHILDHOOD (AGES 3–7): BUILD THE FOUNDATION

Young children learn best through play, visuals, and repetition. At this stage, focus on helping them understand that money is earned and choices matter.

• Use clear jars labeled Save, Spend, and Give so they can see money grow.

• Divide birthday money or small allowances into the jars together.

• Read age-appropriate books about earning and saving.

• Play simple money-themed games like Monopoly Junior.

• Offer paid “extra jobs” beyond regular chores to connect effort with income.

Lesson:  When children see that money is earned and managed, they begin building healthy financial habits early.

ELEMENTARY YEARS (AGES 8–12): TEACH PLANNING AND PATIENCE

As children mature, they are ready to set goals and practice delayed gratification.

• Tie allowance to a simple budget that includes saving and spending.

• Help them save for a specific goal instead of buying items for them.

• Encourage small business ventures like lemonade stands, lawn care, craft sales, pet sitting, or Girl Scout cookie sales.

• Review earnings together and discuss profit, spending, and saving.

• Open a savings account to introduce the concept of earning interest.

Lesson: Learning to plan, save, and earn builds patience, confidence, and decision-making skills.

TEENAGE YEARS (AGES 13–18): PRACTICE REAL-WORLD RESPONSIBILITY

The teen years are when financial habits begin to solidify and independence increases.

• Encourage a part-time job to teach time management and responsibility.

• Review pay stubs together and explain taxes and deductions.

• Create a simple monthly budget that includes saving a percentage of income.

• Introduce compound interest and basic investing concepts.

• Discuss college costs, scholarships, savings plans, and student loan realities.

Lesson: Financial choices made during the teen years can shape long-term freedom and opportunity.

YOUNG ADULTS (AGES

18–25):

BUILD INDEPENDENCE AND STRATEGY

As young adults enter college or the workforce, financial decisions carry real consequences.

• Teach responsible credit card use and the importance of paying balances in full.

• Explain credit scores and how they impact renting, car loans, and future borrowing.

• Encourage building an emergency fund with several months of expenses.

• Promote living within their means and avoiding lifestyle inflation.

• Start retirement savings early through employer plans or individual accounts.

Lesson: Intentional financial planning in early adulthood creates long-term stability and wealth-building potential. By modeling healthy financial habits, encouraging entrepreneurial thinking, and creating opportunities to practice money management at every age, we set the next generation up not just to survive financially, but to thrive.

“When we start early and build intentionally, we give the next generation one of the greatest gifts possible: financial independence and opportunity.”

NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH

YOUTH AGING OUT OF FOSTER CARE FIND HOPE AT DIRECTION61:3

She was one day away from her eighteenth birthday and scared to death. Jazmine Goode was performing brilliantly in her senior year of high school, weeks from speaking at her graduation ceremony. She had been accepted to Texas Woman’s University, aspired to become a medical professional, and was hours away from homelessness—all because of a date on the calendar.

Jazmine—“Jaz” as she is affectionately known—was facing a deadline common to teens in the foster care system: “aging out.”

THE CRISIS OF AGING OUT

ARTICLE BY SIMON TRASK

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DIRECTION61:3

“Aging out” of foster care typically occurs when a teen turns 18 without being adopted or reunited with their biological family. Every year, tens of thousands of teenagers face the same fear as Jaz.

Without support systems, financial preparedness, and sometimes even basic documentation like a birth certificate or social security card, these teens are left hopeless. Aged-out teens commonly experience homelessness, trafficking, addiction, and incarceration.

According to the National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI), over 20,000 youth age out of foster care across the nation each year. Typically there are over 1,000 per year in Texas alone.

A RENEWED HOPE

Thankfully, Jaz quickly found a new home at DIRECTION61:3.

This local organization serves youth ages 14-24 who have been in foster care. With houses in Collin, Denton, and Grayson counties, Jaz was able to join the program the day before she aged out.

Now Jaz is a senior at the University of North Texas, fully independent, and preparing for graduate school.

Despite qualifying for free tuition from Texas state-funded colleges, less than 3% of students who age out of foster care will earn a college degree in their lifetime according to the National Foster Youth Institute. Jaz is proof that with attentive love, invested support, and helpful guidance, youth aging out of foster care can defy the statistics in order to accomplish great things.

FROM A DREAM TO A NEIGHBORHOOD

DIRECTION61:3 began with one home and a hope to serve young adults who have aged out of foster care. Now there are seven homes across North Texas, with big plans to grow.

The organization also has a 4.7-acre development in the McKinney area called “The Farm” that will add another 19 homes to serve these young adults. They have already broken ground on the first two homes.

Dr. Myron Wilson, the founder and executive director of DIRECTION61:3, has had the joy of seeing real life change happen in this program.

“Our name is taken from Isaiah 61:3, which talks about serving people who are oppressed and helping them to find purpose in life,” Wilson says. “That is why we exist as an organization.”

“THRIVE” is DIRECTION61:3’s weekly life skills and discipleship programming. Residents gather to share a meal and hear from local volunteers who share their careers, skills, and tips for thriving in adulthood.

For the residents, THRIVE is all about building a foundation of skills and knowledge in a judgement-free and supportive family environment. There is also an overarching message of faith in Jesus Christ as the center to a fruitful life.

To discover more about what this organization is doing to help local youth and find ways to get involved, visit DIRECTION613.org or text “INFO” to 79613.

ARTICLE BY FATIMA DURRANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN LAINE PHOTOGRAPHY

CONNECTING

the Financial DOTS

“A STRONG WEALTH MANAGER CONNECTS ALL THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE— INCLUDING INVESTMENTS, GOALS, AND PLANNING—INTO A TIMELINE THAT WORKS FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL.”

A strong wealth manager connects all the pieces of the puzzle—including investments, goals and planning—into a timeline that works for each individual. We sat down with Jeff Price, Managing Director, Wealth Management Advisor at Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Inc. to learn more. Now in his thirty-first year with Merrill Lynch, his “wealth” of knowledge acts as a beacon for those who have burning questions on how to create wealth, how to grow it, and how to help secure it for future generations.

INVESTING IN A GOOD WEALTH MANAGER HELPS PROTECT WHAT MATTERS MOST

WHAT IS WEALTH MANAGEMENT?

Wealth management is customized, long-term financial planning. It integrates retirement planning, cash-flow analysis, tax-efficient strategies, estate and legacy planning services, risk management, insurance, and lending solutions. However, a hallmark of true wealth management is being proactive, not reactive, and anticipating needs and adjusting the plan as a client’s life evolves.

WHAT

WEALTH-MANAGEMENT TRENDS STAND OUT IN 2026?

This is the first year that baby boomers become net spenders rather than net savers. Retirement for this generation looks more active; our clients are engaged in their communities and traveling two to five times a year, and they’re not just playing golf anymore. As this “Great Wealth Transfer” shifts trillions of dollars from an accumulation to distribution phase, tax efficiency and asset protection are now a more critical conversation than ever.

HOW DO YOU DISTINGUISH YOURSELF IN THE CURRENT SEA OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT COMPANIES?

Trust. My clients know I act in their best interests and that I can leverage a wide array of tools, services, and specialists, from portfolio managers to estate planners. Our differentiator is that we have a highly integrated and robust team structure that engages clients at a deep, personal level.

WHAT MISTAKES DO PEOPLE MAKE WHEN CHOOSING A WEALTH MANAGEMENT COMPANY?

• Focusing only on investment performance instead of planning depth, disciplined portfolio construction, and risk management.

• Not understanding how advisors are compensated and not asking what the yield is for brokers.

• Overlooking tax-minimization strategies, which result in clients paying more in taxes than necessary.

• Failing to ask about proactive planning, including scheduling meetings and content that’s relevant to you.

• Assuming comprehensive options. Just because a firm uses the term “financial planning” doesn’t mean it delivers other services such as retirement income planning or business owner strategy.

• Choosing a convenient or personable advisor over criteria such as team expertise and institutional strength (for example, Bank of America, our parent company, spends billions a year on cybersecurity because it has the resources to do so).

• Ignoring succession and continuity planning and not asking what would happen if an advisor retires.

• Assuming all advisors operate under the same fiduciary standards, which they don’t.

IN AN INCREASINGLY VOLATILE ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT, HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS POSITION THEIR PORTFOLIOS?

Everything starts with assessing risk tolerance. A client’s goals will change, the world will change, and portfolios must adapt—and accordingly, a person’s risk appetite. My role is to guide, not force or dictate, and to pull the right resources together, like a quarterback calling the right play and uniting the team.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH LONGEVITY AND LONG-TERM PLANNING?

I address the hard questions early. People are living longer and are learning to manage health risks with an extended lifespan. They need to ask themselves how they will afford long-term health care costs; this requires planning in advance.

Being educated is central to building wealth, and having a trusted advisor as your quarterback is irreplaceable. For more information, contact Price & Associates at 601 State Street. Suite 100. Southlake TX 76092, 817.442.1069, advisor. ml.com/sites/tx/southlake-tx/price.

TRULY PROACTIVE PROTECTION

For most homeowners, a house is more than just a place to live; it's a long-term investment. While upgrades like a new roof or updated interiors often get top priority, one of the most important ways to preserve a home’s value happens out of sight: preventative pest control. In North Texas, proactive protection can make the difference between minor maintenance and major repair bills.

“Damage from pests can cause $20,000 or more in repairs before a homeowner even realizes they’re there.”

Founded in 1938 by Truly Wheatfield Nolen and family-owned ever since, Truly Nolen Pest Control prides itself on its commitment to quality service and educating customers. Today, they provide extensive residential and commercial pest control services with a large focus on prevention first.

Many homeowners don’t call a pest control company until they see ants on the counter or hear noises in the attic. The problem here? By the time pests are visible, they’re often already established.

Warm weather, mature neighborhoods, and expanding developments create ideal conditions for critters to move indoors. This makes North Texas homes common targets for three particular pests: termites, carpenter ants, and rodents. According to national data, termites cause more damage to homes than all natural disasters combined. Paired with excavational damage from carpenter ants and electrical and insulation hazards

caused by rodents, these critters silently damage a home’s essential structural components. Damage from pests can cause $20,000 or more in repairs before a homeowner even realizes they’re there.

Compared to those risks, investing early in preventative pest control is a relatively small, strategic expense. Truly Nolen’s Keller branch manager, Tom Larrabee, recommends pursuing pest control immediately upon a home purchase. This way an informed technician can assess the home’s state and recommend treatment as needed.

Another simple way for homeowners to start protecting their home at any time is through mindful landscaping. Overgrown shrubs, piles of leaves, and mulch stacked against the foundation create conducive conditions for infestations. Truly Nolen recommends keeping two to three inches of foundation exposed to allow for proper inspections and reduce risk.

Education is a key part of Truly Nolen’s approach, which goes beyond just informing the customer of problems. Their technicians undergo extensive training that combines classroom education with hands-on field experience. This ensures treatments are thorough, consistent, and tailored to each home.

In addition to their commitment to service, Truly Nolen remains dedicated to using low toxicity methods first. Modern pest control materials have evolved significantly, and Truly Nolen prioritizes products that are highly diluted and designed to work at a biological level on pests while keeping families and pets safe. In many cases, the products used are no more toxic than the average household cleaner.

Indoor spraying is also limited whenever possible, meaning that liquid applications are used for active infestations only. When pursuing outdoor treatments, they are applied carefully to avoid flowering plants and pollinator areas.

Despite having grown to one of the largest family-owned companies in the country, Truly Nolen remains committed to its founder’s vision: “ For you to be protected by proactive pest control that you're proud of and see as a sign of good housekeeping, done in an environmentally responsible way, made affordable by serving neighbors.”

Beyond protecting homes and offices, Truly Nolen is deeply involved in the communities they serve through supporting local chambers of commerce, youth sports, cancer awareness initiatives, and neighborhood events. That community-first mindset mirrors their approach to pest control—proactive, thoughtful, and focused on long-term well-being.

Preventative pest control isn’t just about keeping bugs out. It’s about protecting what matters most. With a trusted vendor like Truly Nolen, homeowners can invest confidently in their home’s future, knowing that small preventative steps today can prevent major problems tomorrow.

To learn more, visit https://locations.trulynolen. com/tx/keller/keller-037.

Selling Your Business

A SMART INVESTMENT STRATEGY

ARTICLE BY JULIE BARLOW, TRANSWORLD BUSINESS ADVISORS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALLAS MCNEAL PHOTOGRAPHY

For many business owners, selling their company isn’t just about moving on—it’s a strategic financial decision. A wellplanned sale can provide significant returns and open the door to new investment opportunities. As a former business owner herself—three times over—Julie Barlow has been through it all: buying, building, and eventually selling. Julie has previously owned three brick-and-mortar businesses in the fitness and wellness industry.  After purchasing her last business, where she worked with a business broker, she realized that her skill set and experience were well-suited to help business owners navigate the complexities of a business purchase or a sale of their business.

Julie understands the unique challenges small business owners face and is passionate and skilled at helping them maximize their exit value, navigate the process of selling their business, and growing strategically through acquisition. Here’s a Q&A guide with Julie to help you understand how selling your business can be a smart financial move.

Q: WHY IS SELLING A BUSINESS A GOOD INVESTMENT DECISION?

A: Owning a business is one of the most hands-on investments you can make. When it’s time to sell, you’re essentially cashing in on years of hard work, allowing you to reinvest in new opportunities, whether that’s another business, real estate, or retirement funds.

Q: HOW CAN I MAXIMIZE THE VALUE OF MY BUSINESS BEFORE SELLING?

A: To attract the best offers, focus on profitability, streamline operations, and maintain clear financial records. A strong customer base, recurring revenue, and a well-documented business model can also make your business more appealing to buyers.

Q: HOW CAN I ENSURE A SMOOTH BUSINESS SALE PROCESS?

A: Proper planning is key. Working with a professional exit planner, business broker, and financial advisor well in advance ensures you will maximize value and minimize potential roadblocks.

A skilled business broker can give you specific steps you can take to prepare your business for sale in the future.  Examples include removing yourself from operations, minimizing customer concentration issues, and improving your online presence and reputation.

Q: HOW CAN I MINIMIZE TAXES WHEN SELLING MY BUSINESS?

A: The tax implications of selling a business depend on factors such as the sale structure and timing. Capital gains tax rates may apply, offering lower tax liability than ordinary income tax. Additionally, options like a 1031 Exchange or seller-financing the deal can help defer taxes and preserve more of your proceeds. Consulting a tax professional ensures you choose the best strategy for your financial situation.

Q: WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH THE PROCEEDS AFTER SELLING MY BUSINESS?

A: Many entrepreneurs reinvest their proceeds into new ventures, diversify into stocks and real estate, or secure their retirement through wealth management strategies. The key is to have a clear investment plan before the sale so you can make the most of your newfound liquidity.

Q: HOW DOES SELLING MY BUSINESS PROVIDE FINANCIAL SECURITY?

A: Owning a business means having much of your time, energy, and financial resources tied up in a single entity, which carries inherent risks. Market downturns, industry disruptions, or unexpected events can threaten your financial stability. Selling your business allows you to minimize these risks by diversifying your wealth across multiple investments. By converting your business equity into liquid assets, you gain more control over your financial future, reduce dependency on a single income source, and create opportunities for more balanced and secure wealth management.

“Selling your business is more than just an exit—it’s an opportunity to turn years of effort into lasting financial security.”

“Owning a business is one of the most hands-on investments you can make. When it’s time to sell, you’re essentially cashing in on years of hard work, allowing you to reinvest in new opportunities, whether that’s another business, real estate, or retirement funds.”

Q: WHY WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO WORK WITH A BUSINESS BROKER?

• You must keep the sale confidential.

• You want to get the best price.

• You need quality and knowledgeable representation.

• The selling of a business is a very complex process.

• Most successful business owners don't have experience selling a business.

• Owners in general do not have the time to sell their own company.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Selling your business is more than just an exit—it’s an opportunity to turn years of effort into lasting financial security. With careful planning and strategic reinvestment, the sale of your business can be a catalyst for wealth-building and financial freedom. If you’re considering selling, now is the time to position your business for maximum value and future success.

Julie Barlow is a business broker with the largest and most successful business brokerage in the world. She can be reached at (214) 727-9696.

Immersed in Art

Everyone Is an Artist at Lewisville ColorPalooza

Lewisville ColorPalooza is unlike most events of its kind in North Texas. It’s an event where the very trees, water features, and benches of Wayne Ferguson Plaza become part of a living, breathing art gallery; an event where attendees not only enjoy art created by others, but have the opportunity to create art themselves and take it home.

The brainchild of the late James Kunke, former director of Community Engagement for the City of Lewisville, ColorPalooza was created in 2016 around the existing Chalk This Way sidewalk chalk extravaganza. To expand the focus of the event, ColorPalooza blended the colors of art with the rich tapestry of international cultures and the “green” elements of sustainability. The vision was to focus on creating interactive, hands-on art activities as the cornerstone of the event. And it begins with the festival logo and an investment in the community.

Since the inception of the event, high school students in Lewisville have competed to design the event logo for the year and win a college scholarship as a prize. Since ColorPalooza is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, ten different students from different grades and schools have contributed to the legacy of the event.

ARTICLE BY JAMIE MILSTEAD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BLACKALL PHOTOGRAPHY

Greidy Marison Flores Mejia, a sophomore at LHS Killough, continued that legacy by creating the 2026 logo. She wanted to share her creativity with the community and show what Lewisville means to her—that it’s colorful, friendly, and full of life.

“Welcoming high school students to design the logo each year is a unique way to connect the community to ColorPalooza and give opportunities to students that want to pursue art or graphic design,” said Denise Helbing, City of Lewisville Arts Center Manager. “How amazing to be able to say you designed the logo for your hometown festival! We couldn’t be happier to have so many teachers, counselors, and students invest in this initiative year after year.”

A tie-dye shirt station has been a fan favorite at ColorPalooza since the very first year, with families returning wearing tie-dyed shirts they made at the previous event, ready to make and take home a new souvenir, featuring the current year’s logo, of course.

Whether it’s tie-dye, hand marbling, sun prints, or embroidery, everyone is an artist at ColorPalooza. After trying art yourself, you can watch professional artists create works of art right in front of you. They’re happy to talk about their craft and sometimes even invite you to create with them! Local professional artists anchor the Artisan Market, selling handcrafted items, and community nonprofits contribute to the creative atmosphere, offering interactive activities and crafts at their vendor booths. There’s no mistaking what kind of event you are at when you wander the grounds at ColorPalooza.

“I am an elementary school art teacher, and ColorPalooza is my favorite event,” said Rachel Varney, a return ColorPalooza attendee. “My family has been attending since 2019,

and we do not miss it. My son even celebrated his birthday at ColorPalooza and invited his friends to join him. I love the opportunity to be creative with my kids and watch them light up when they try something new and cool.”

Sometimes that something new is learning a craft from a country like Ukraine or India as part of Cultural Corner, or sampling food from a country across the world. At ColorPalooza, you can listen to groovy world flute music, enjoy traditional Bavarian dance, belt out your favorite Disney tunes, and still take home art made with your own two hands.

ColorPalooza takes place on Saturday, April 26, in Old Town Lewisville. Learn more at LewisvilleColorPalooza.com

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS Starts with HR Strategy

When a business owner launches a company, HR is rarely the first thing on their mind. Revenue, operations, and growth typically take priority. But according to the team at Bright HR Solutions, waiting too long to invest in HR support can quietly create costly risks.

“Compliance obligations begin with the very first employee,” says Aimee Pecina, Associate Director of Talent Solutions. Even a single hire triggers responsibilities around classification, payroll compliance, documentation, and required notices. Businesses that delay building processes often find themselves playing catch-up later—digging through paperwork, drafting missing policies, and correcting preventable errors.

“HR isn’t just about managing people,” Pecina adds. “It’s about protecting your business.”

However, for small to midsize businesses, building a full in-house HR department can be expensive. Salaries, benefits, training, and ongoing development quickly add up. It’s because of this that the team at Bright HR Solutions set out to form a consultancy that functions like an extension of your team— allowing business owners to pay for the HR support tailored to their business’s unique needs.

Unlike other HR consulting firms, Bright HR Solutions works on an hourly model, allowing companies to scale support up or down based on need.

CONTINUED >

“We don’t do a package model,” explains Angela McIntire, Director of HR Solutions at Bright HR Solutions. “A lot of businesses don’t necessarily know how much they’re going to need in HR until we get in there. And, investing in an HR consultancy is not just a cost-saving measure, but it’s a strategic decision that allows agility, expertise, and long-term value.”

That flexibility, she says, ensures business owners only pay for what they use, whether that’s research, compliance guidance, or recruiting support.

“We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all solution,” says Pecina. “We tailor our approach to the realities of the world.”

Because Bright HR Solutions serves clients across industries—from country clubs and restaurants to construction and real estate—the team brings a broad, cross-industry lens to each engagement. The specialist team assists clients with recruiting, onboarding and offboarding of new employees, records management, payroll services, benefits administration, workforce training development, compliance reporting, employee relations, and more.

a role, craft detailed job descriptions, and build structured interview processes. The goal is not simply to “check boxes” but to align personality, working style, and company values.

“We want to make sure we’re not only meeting the needs of our clients, but also the needs of employees,” Pecina says.

Compliance is another area where small missteps can have severe consequences. Employment laws change frequently, and recent legislation has introduced additional tracking and reporting requirements.

Misclassification is one of the most common and costly mistakes the team encounters. Employers who incorrectly label workers as exempt or as contractors can face back pay, penalties, and tax liabilities if audited or challenged.

“HR isn’t just about managing people. It’s about protecting your business.”

Pecina says that recruiting is an often-overlooked facet of HR, and many managers fall into reactive hiring, especially when they’re juggling full-time responsibilities.

“You can train someone to do a job, but you can’t train them to be a good person,” she says. “Culture fit is often more critical to long-term success than technical skills.”

Additionally, Bright HR Solutions helps managers define what success looks like before posting

“There’s no fixing it at that point,” McIntire says. “You’re just paying for it.”

Bright HR Solutions also partners with companies that already have an internal HR manager. Rather than replacing that role, the firm serves as an extension of the team, offering research, training, development, an impartial voice, and overflow support.

For business owners and existing HR leaders, overflow support can mean more time to focus on growth or other business initiatives.

“Our goal is partnership,” Pecina says. “We want you to feel as if we work for your company. When business owners are focusing on trying to remain compliant and trying to hire people, they’re not actually spending time making revenue.”

For more information, visit www.brighthrs.com.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

events

APRIL 7TH

Money Matters for Teens

Lewisville Public Library: 1197 W Main St., Lewisville, TX 75067 | 6:30 PM

Prepare for life beyond high school with this insightful financial workshop designed for teens 15-18 years old and their adults. Explore essential money skills, smart decision-making, and practical guidance for building a confident financial future. Thoughtfully presented by DATCU and discussion-driven, this session sets the foundation for lifelong success. Registration required. Reserve your spot by visiting www.cityoflewisville.com.

APRIL 11TH - 12TH

Family Campout

Twin Coves Park: 5001 Wichita Trail, Flower Mound, TX 75022

Escape to the great outdoors with a festive family campout at Twin Coves Park. Enjoy organized games, a catered dinner, breakfast, latenight treats, and a spirited spring-themed tent decorating contest. Bring your creativity and camping essentials for an unforgettable night under the stars. Find more details, including how to reserve a cabin or RV spot, at www.flowermound.gov/specialevents.