Issuu

Captivating Images TR AV E L

DO CTO R E XPLO RES WO RLD O N E PI CTU RE AT A TI M E A P R I L 2 02 3

Meet the Fraser’s

Jason, Laurie, Austin & Andrew The Two A’s of A&A Air

A&A Air Is First Class All The Way

Call And Sign Up Today For Our First Class Bi-Annual Service Agreement. • First Class HVAC Preventative Maintenance • A/C and Heat Repair • New Equipment Installation

972-951-1320 | www.AAair.net | Lantana, Texas

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Get out and explore

April 2023 PUBLISHER

Crystal Hobbs | crystal.hobbs@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Richard Greene | richard.greene@citylifestyle.com

The weather in North Texas is getting warmer, and the wildflowers are now in bloom. It's the perfect time of the year to get out and explore, which just happens to be the theme for the April issue of Northlake City Lifestyle. We found you the perfect inspiration to get out and explore. Starting on the cover, you see the beautiful artwork captured by Dr. Scott Kasden during his travels throughout the country and beyond. His stunning photo of the Mittens in Monument Valley is one of his thousands of awe-inspiring images. But he points out, you don’t have to go far to find beautiful images — many were taken within miles of his home. Meagan Alpha inspires all of us to try something new and push ourselves. A few years after jumping on a mountain bike, she is now racing professionally with the backing of several sponsors. She manages her busy racing schedule around running her Alpha Women’s Wellness clinic. The Knob Hills trails just off U.S. 377, near Farm Road 1171, are truly a treasure. The rolling hills in the 13 miles of trails are beautiful and will give you a workout on the bike or hiking. Some journeys are more personal and Redeemed Life Counseling is there to help. Michelle Fitzhugh and her staff are dedicated to leading clients on the path to mental health. No matter your path, we hope you find happiness and wellness, as you explore the many gifts around us.

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

C R Y S TA L H O B B S , P U B L I S H E R @NORTHLAKECITYLIFESTYLE

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/NORTHL AKE |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Northlake City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northlake area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Northlake City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

A Boutique Firm Focused on You Every situation is unique, and our goal is to provide a comprehensive approach that is objective and customized.

Tax Mitigation | Asset Protection Business & Estate Strategies

124 McMakin Rd Building 2 Ste 205 Bartonville, TX 76226

(940) 489-5600 | insightfg.com

Healthy Protein Shakes Coffees & Energy Teas FU L L SUIT E OF SUPPLE MEN TS E n e rg y | I m m u n i ty E s s e n t i a l s Pr o b i o t i c s & M o r e

Mon - Fri 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Sat 8:00am to 2:00pm

940-464-3787 407 US-377 Argyle, Texas 76226

BARN DOORS

ACCENT WALLS SHOU SUGI BAN ARTISAN | RYAN KOESEL

MANTELS

(239) 273-1289 VB ARTISAN RK AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Capturing nature

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Travel Journal T R AV EL

Mental Wellbeing HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

Local Limelight FI T NES S

Our Town S PO RTS + R EC R EAT ION

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Outdoor Adventure T R AV EL

Events

Doctor explores world one picture at a time

20 Helping to heal

Redeemed Life Counseling meets growing mental health needs

24 Pushing the limits

Road to health leads to championships

26 Hidden gem

Knob Hills trail provide challenge, beautiful ride or hike

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Scott Kasden In his travels across the nation, Dr. Scott Kasden captured a gorgeous nighttime picture of the Mittens in Monument Valley in Arizona.

Dallas’s MOST TRUSTED Remodeling Company Bathrooms • Kitchens • Walk In Closets 214-463-6264 • mgremodeling85.com • VB mgremodelingllc

DOG WALKING DROP-IN VISITS HOUSE SITTING

sca n

Pets love us. Humans trust us.

Book your free consult today!

Foow us!

214-675-7796 AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

4 7

1: Kay Braswell attended the Impact High Tea and Fashion Show in support of area nonprofits. 2: Beth Peltier of Season To Change teaches clients how to "Reconnect to Your Foundation." 3: Kate Jones hosted friends and neighbors for Galentines in February. 4: Sunlit Salon is helping clients rejuvenate for the spring. 5: Kate Jones of House of Color prepares for a color analysis. 6: The Premium Poolsmith crew is ready to help homeowners get a pool in place for summer. 7: Mosquito Hunters is ready to combat pests around your house this spring.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @northlakecitylifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

Change your Metabolism, Change your Results. HOLISTIC WEIGHT LOSS

JUST 5 WEEKS

NO DIET PILLS OR PACKAGED MEALS

LOST 60 POUNDS

4 SIZES JUST 4 MONTHS

NO REQUIRED EXERCISE

7 SIZES IN 18 MONTHS

New Client Consultation just

$35 FOR THE FIRST 15 TO SCHEDULE

817-400-0575 back2realfood.com newclients.b2rf@gmail.com 1323 W Northwest Hwy Grapevine, Texas 76051

APRIL 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Making an investment

Dreamy treats

Selling dreams

Navigating today's economy takes some knowledge to protect your investments. Insight Financial is a local boutique firm in Bartonville dedicated to helping clients. They realize everyone has different circumstances and provide a comprehensive and customized approach to the unique needs of their clients, their families and their employees. The firm can be reached on their website at Insightfg.com or by phone at 940-489-5600.

Kay Thibodeaux puts smiles on faces one piece of chocolate at a time. In her artisanal shoppe, Thibodeaux and her staff offer handcrafted chocolates, such as truffles, caramel pecan clusters and more. They also carry a wide selection of craft chocolate bars. She loves to share her knowledge about cacao and the chocolate-making process. She offers a range of classes from wine pairing to lessons for kids.

Recognized by multiple publications as a top REALTOR, Angela LaBounty is an expert at negotiating on behalf of her clients. The Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and elite Guild Member with the Institute For Luxury Home Marketing, LaBounty takes pride in her experience and understanding of the most discriminating buyers and sellers. But regardless of the price point, she delivers the same dedication and Ceaseless Concierge Service for every client.

Scan to read more.

Scan to read more. Scan to read more.

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Getting in shape

Precious service

Renovating dreams

For the past 12 years, The Workout Pro has helped local residents get in shape. Featuring a wide variety of free weights, workout equipment and cardio machines, the gym at 100 Country Club Road in Argyle has all you need. The locally owned gym has 24/7 access and members can sign up online to receive instant access. The gym also offers personal training to help you stay motivated or get moving.

With more than 40 years of jewelry experience, Nasr Jewelers gives its customers a personalized approach to purchasing custom jewelry. Nasr provides an in-house custom designer and handles all repairs in the store. Nasr also offers lifetime warranties on its jewelry backed by insurance companies. The store at 1800 Brinker Road, Suite 100, is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the week and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays.

Larry Glover and LG Contracting specialize in making your dream home renovations come true. The general contractor specializes in high-end residential renovations and building luxury homes from the ground up. LG has built a reputation for exceeding clients' expectations with personalized service and attention to detail. Along with its many residential projects, LG has constructed many medical clinics and healthcare offices throughout the area. Visit their website at lgcbuilds.com.

Scan to read more.

Scan to read more. Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Northlake

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

ACTUAL CLIENTS

SPECIALIZING IN MEN'S AND WOMEN'S CUTTING AND COLORING Northlake Color Lab Salon 101 Plaza Place Suite 300 Northlake, TX 76226

940-239-4257

www.northlakecolorlab.com

@northlakecolorlab

COMPARE HEALTH INSURANCE TODAY 5 MINUTES COULD SAVE YOU UP TO 40% ON YOUR MONTHLY PREMIUMS!

FREDRICK INSURANCE BROKERS Specializes in PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE for: • Individuals • Families • Small Businesses Veteran Owned // Landscaping // Hardscapes Outdoor Kitchens, Stonework, Outdoor Lighting, Landscape Design, Fencing, Pergolas

Traditional PPO | Dental | Vision | Accident & Life

KATHERINE CLARK-FREDRICK

W W W. F R E D R I C K I N S U R A N C E B R O K E R S . C O M 940-299-7499 // f ireflylandscapestx.com

(972) 375-0507

Savanna Romano

B E T H P E LT I E R | 8 3 2 . 5 6 7. 5 8 8 3 | S E A S O N T O C H A N G E . L I F E

940-765-7707 sricemedia.smugmug.com Sr.icemedia@yahoo.com V Sr.shootz and Sr.icemedia

ECO AND PET FRIENDLY PEST CONTROL SERVICES Residential and Commercial Services Locally Owned SERVICES INCLUDE

INTENTIONAL MOBILITY BY SEASON TO CHANGE

Pest Control Prevention

Spider Control

Ants, Wasps, Bees

Mosquitoes

Bed Bug Removal

Wildlife Control & Removal

Cockroaches Termite Control

Rodent Control

Free Inspections Servicing All Of North Texas Areas 817.345.4453 deida@itsbugsorus.com

itsbugsorus.com/northlake AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

APRIL 2023

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area. ARTICLE BY RICHARD GREENE

Texas Parks and Wildlife is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the state park system. Now is the perfect time to visit some of North Texas' treasures. Here are some wonderful parks to add to your list within 3 hours of the Northlake.

Our Picks to Choose Your Next Adventure F O R T R I C H A R D S O N : Fort Richardson in Jacksboro is worth the trip, with a chance to tour the historic fort and take in several great trails. M I N E R A L W E L L S S TAT E PA R K : The beautiful Mineral Wells State Park gives you an opportunity to literally climb the walls, with its rock climbing area. D I N O S AU R VA L L E Y S TAT E PA R K : Walk in the tracks of the native inhabitants from ancient times at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose. C L E B U R N E S TAT E PA R K : The fall foliage at Cleburne State Park is among the best in all of North Texas. C O P P E R B R E A K S S TAT E PA R K : The stars at night are big and bright at Copper Breaks State Park, the closest dark sky park to the Metroplex near Quannah.

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Fort Richardson

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Richard Greene Richard Greene is editor of Northlake City Lifestyle. He is an avid runner and enjoys hiking and camping in his free time, with his wife Deborah.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

Kay Braswell Insurance Group Your Local Independent Agency

Over 40 years insurance experience and looking forward to help you with your insurance

KAY BRASWELL (817) 422-0351 | kaybraswell.com kay@kaybraswell.com 101 Plaza Pl Suite 200 Northlake, TX

WE’RE NOT IN THE

MOSQUITO BUSINESS

Loyalty we’re in the

BUSINESS

INITIAL SERVICE

STARTING AT

$ 39

S E RV I C E S O F F E R E D : MOSQUITO CONTROL FLEA & TICK PREVENTION PERIMETER PEST CONTROL SPECIAL EVENT TREATMENTS

PROUDLY SERVING THE GREATER NORTHLAKE AND ARGYLE AREA (469) 783-7766 | MH157@MOSQUITOHUNTERS.COM MOSQUITOHUNTERS.COM/LEWISVILLE-TX

Custom Tumblers with personality

(972) 503-2721 | www.moxiemakers.co AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

ARTICLE BY RICHARD GREENE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT KASDEN

Capturing nature Doctor explores world one picture at a time Dr. Scott Kasden captured this beautiful image of an owl in North Texas.

On a trip to Antelope Canyon, Dr. Scott Kasden shot a great picture of the landscape.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

In his trips around the world, Dr. Scott Kasden has found himself within yards of several big cats like this leopard.

As a busy solo practitioner, Dr. Scott Kasden’s free time is valuable. In his free moments, his camera is his vehicle to escape and capture precious once-in-a-lifetime moments. “Photography is more of a passion and an excuse to travel,” Kasden said. “When I’m behind the camera, it’s an escape.” In his travels across the country and globe, Kasden has captured thousands of rare images of sights, animals and people. Portraits of some of his pictures adorn the walls of the Kasden Plastic Surgery clinic on Old Town Boulevard in Argyle. He’s also published a book, featuring his favorite photos, including many from Yellowstone, the American Southwest and Africa. Scrolling through the photos on his computer, ranging from an antique cash register found in a shop in Forney to a group of cheetahs in the Serengeti, he points out the vivid, jaw-dropping moments images are not all about the beauty. “It’s discovering the things around us,” Kasden explained. “Each of the pictures tells a story. People will look at an image differently and it’ll elicit its own story.” The board-certified plastic surgeon has been practicing for 30 years. During his time practicing, he’s trained himself as a worldclass photographer. “It was something I could do on my own. The camera was an excuse to explore,” Kasden said. “Then once I’m there, you get a once-in-alifetime look in the camera.” Many days that escape is just down to a neighborhood pond where he’ll sit for 30 minutes or an hour and may only capture a couple of images of an owl or heron. CONTINUED >

A peacock in an Arlington neighborhood shows off for Dr. Kasden. AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

“I might be out there for an hour and take two exposures. But I’m able to be there in the moment, and no one is bothering me,” Kasden said. When Kasden does get the opportunity to break free, he looks to find places he would be interested in. He spends time studying destinations and finding places to photograph. That dedication put him in the perfect place to capture a stunning view from above the Grand Prismatic at Yellowstone or an iconic photo of the T.A. Moulton barn near Jackson Hole. “I visit travel websites to get ideas of places that I’d like to go that are off the beaten path,” Kasden said. “I read a lot to see what piques my curiosity.” When traveling, he never knows what he will run across to photograph. On a stop in Amsterdam, he spotted a young girl in a window and captured the awe on her face. “I don’t know what she was looking at,” Kasden explained in showing the image. In Ecuador, he stopped to take a picture of a man getting a shave in a local shop. Even during a stop in Texas, he found a little cowboy enjoying a snack during a rodeo. “I love meeting interesting people. I’ve gotten to know some fascinating people,” Kasden said. Studying zoology in college, Kasden has a love for animals and has been able to see lions, elephants, warthogs, jackals, cheetahs and leopards up close during his travels. One trip took him to the Serengeti to see many of earth’s majestic creatures.

While visiting Jackson Hole, Dr. Kasden snagged a picture of the iconic T.A. Moulton barn.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

“In the safari, you just sit there and watch. I’ve always been interested in animals,” Kasden said, as he scrolls by one of his favorite pictures of zebras stampeding through mud. For the sake of getting a picture, he’s put himself in harm’s way on more than one occasion. “I’ve been close to lions and twice been charged by elephants,” Kasden said. But it’s the baboons and monkeys that are the most frightening to the doctor. His travels have also taken him away from much of the light pollution found in cities to capture stunning images of the night sky, including star trails above the Mittens in Monument Valley in Arizona and the safari in Africa. “The constellations light up the sky like Roman candles,” Kasden said. There are still many places on his bucket list to visit, explore and take pictures of, including the ice caves in Iceland and Antarctica. “There are a lot of places I still want to go. Right now, I don’t have much time as a solo practitioner,” Kasden said. Pointing out that many of his favorite pictures were taken only a few miles from his home, he encourages everyone to get out, explore and observe what is around them. “There are so many amazing places in this country to discover. But you have to leave your home,” Kasden said.

Dr. Kasden and his assistant Madigan Murray run the Kasden Plastic Surgery clinic in Argyle.

Zebra and wildebeest fill the savannah during Dr. Kasden's safari in Africa.

A cowboy enjoys a treat at the rodeo.

In the dark, Dr. Scott Kasden displayed his skill leaving the shutter open to shoot a stunning picture of the Mittens in Monument Valley.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

HELPING TO HEAL Redeemed Life Counseling meets growing mental health needs

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALTH + W E LLNE S S

passion for helping students and parents with their everyday struggles. “I had a good friend in the same school who was a counselor and she was going to leave to have a baby. We started talking about it and she said, ‘You’re already a counselor. You just need to go to school.’ So I did,” Fitzhugh recalled. “I got my master’s and started counseling in the middle of my master’s degree in that school. I absolutely loved it. I’m passionate about finding the things that help hurting people, seeing those victories, and being able to walk through really hard things with people.” A majority of her patients are working through trauma. Fitzhugh and the other Redeemed therapists offer different methods to help them process and heal. EMDR, which uses eye movements similar to REM sleep to help process memories, is one form of trauma treatment. “It brings up a memory that they often have a lot of emotion attached to it. They can have some sensations in the body from it,” Fitzhugh said. “The brain begins to reprocess that memory and help the body and the brain understand and realize it’s not happening again. It happened in the past and it’s over. “It’s such an integral part of my practice as a trauma therapist. I use it for everything — anxiety, OCD and depression.” Fitzhugh also provides intensive therapy, offering months of therapy to clients in one to four sessions. Redeemed’s different counselors offer a variety of services and therapy methods to meet the needs of clients. Redeemed’s licensed associates are also available as affordable options for clients. “The associates have passed all their tests and are gathering their hours to be fully licensed,” Fitzhugh said. Redeemed is accepting new clients for in-person and online appointments.

ARTICLE BY RICHARD GREENE

As a counselor, Michelle Fitzhugh offers several forms of therapy to help her clients on the path to healing. From Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), brainspotting, addiction treatment to couples counseling, the therapy is based on the needs of the client. “I meet the person where they are, working to get them to a space where they want to be. I’m helping them see where they are and understand where they are versus being action-oriented,” Fitzhugh explained. Since 2018, the owner of Redeemed Life Counseling and her team of licensed counselors have been offering mental health resources from their office in Argyle. Starting in 2020 with the COVID-19 pandemic, demand and need have grown. “There is a mental health crisis, and it has been coming for a long time,” Fitzhugh said. “The awareness, conversation, people having an idea of what to do and where to turn to get help, have become more of something that people are talking about openly and widely. It’s just continued to grow and expand into our area. “It’s just my heart to bring quality, good therapy to this area, where people don’t have to leave and go somewhere else.” Redeemed has grown from four counselors to 14 therapists and associates, with plans to add up to four more by the end of the year. “I’m thrilled to be in this position where we have 14 available therapists,” Fitzhugh said. “We’re really selective on who we bring into the practice, making sure their methodology matches what we’re doing. They have to have the same mindset and heart for people.” Fitzhugh has been a counselor for more than 25 years, working in schools and other practices before starting Redeemed. Her path to becoming a counselor started while she was teaching. She quickly found she had a

“It’s just my heart to bring quality, good therapy to this area, where people don’t have to leave and go somewhere else.” — Michelle Fitzhugh, owner of Redeemed Life Counseling

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

WHEN NEGOTIATIONS MATTER MOST...

817.475.2397 angela@labountyluxurylistings.com

“We Treat Your Home Like We Do Our Own” We complete a wide variety of projects and repairs, whether large or small Disabled veteran owned and family operated Professional Handyman business with over 35 years experience. (316) 303-4523 | bkshomeservices.com | sales@bkshomeservices.com | VB

CALL US TODAY! TXPLASTICSURGEON.COM

BKS Home Services

BRACHIOPLASTY

(upper arm lift):

(817) 416-9980 Om@kasdenmd.com scottkinfw@msn.com 144 Old Town Blvd N Suite 2 Argyle, Texas

• EFFECTIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURE THAT SCULPTS THE UPPER ARM • NO OTHER PROCEDURE IS AS POWERFUL AT ACHIEVING AN EXCELLENT AESTHETIC RESULT • SURGICALLY REMOVES EXCESS SKIN AND FAT

dine - wine - whiskey We offer a neW american, high-end cuisine to enjoy With a glass of Wine, Whiskey or one of our featured craft cocktails. We combine traditional preparations With fresh ingredients for dishes that are authentic to both their origins and a texas setting.

The Barrel

940-277-9840

thebarrelbars.com

Kate Dallas - Fort Worth Experience the power of knowing the colors that complement YOU rather than compete with you! Investments | Life Insurance | Annuities Retirement Planning Strategies | College Funding Strategies

Kate Jones, Franchise Owner/Style Consultant Color & Style Analysis 214-437-7727 v@HouseofColour.Kate.DFW

859.312.7343 | www.harnessadvisors.com 2704 Hilcroft Ave Denton, Texas 76210 Walter Ellis Hampton is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of, and securities and investment advisory services are offered solely by, Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA(www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org), 333 Westchester Ave, South Building, Suite 3302, White Plains, NY 10604, 914-428-4000. Harness Advisors is independent of Equity Services, Inc. In CO, MO, NH and WI, Equity Services, Inc. operates as Vermont Equity Services, Inc. TC131498(0223)3

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

Pushing the limits Road to health leads to championships ARTICLE BY RICHARD GREENE

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FITNE S S

Meagan Alpha’s first trail ride left quite an impression on her. Taking a wrong turn on her entry-level bike, Alpha found herself walking a majority of the difficult trail along Grapevine Lake. “I think I walked my bike like 90 percent of the time, but I fell in love with it,” Alpha said. Just four years later, the owner of Alpha Women’s Wellness is a champion pro cross-country mountain bike rider, with 14 victories. She’s also earned sponsorships from Intense Cycles, a nutrition company, PNG and cycling apparel company, Jakroo. “In 2019, when I got my bike, and I was riding North Shore, if you would have told me that I’d be doing this, I’d be, ‘No way,’” Alpha said. “It’s crazy.” Alpha, 40, has been in healthcare for 18 years. She is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse focused on women’s healthcare. She opened Alpha Women’s Wellness in June to provide individualized and compassionate care for her patients. She practices a more holistic, functional approach to healthcare to find the root cause for a range of issues from nutrition to sexual health. “My big thing with my practice is I want to give the patients the time that they need,” Alpha said. “A lot of women go to the doctor, sit there for two hours, wait for a room, and then they see the provider for five to 10 minutes. They get the full-time with me — 45 minutes to an hour. They really have the time to sit and tell me things. It’s a personal relationship.” Alpha started cycling during her own journey to living healthier while raising three children.

“I was not eating well or taking care of myself. I was busy caring for kids,” she recalled. “I started going for hikes on the trails and I’d see the mountain bikers. I wanted to try that.” Soon after that fateful first ride, she upgraded her bike and joined a local riding group. By the next year, she graduated to competing and winning. While finding success on the trails, Alpha’s motivation is not winning, but inspiring others to push their limits. “I don’t have that competitive drive. I’m more competitive with myself and want to do my best,” Alpha said. “I want to have fun and encourage people to do something new.” As a busy health provider, riding has helped her find an outlet for stress. She hits the trainer in the morning at home and then finds time for long rides around her busy work schedule. Her children, 11, 13, and 21, have supported her in her training and competition. “They will come in the room when I’m on the trainer and look at the screen and give a thumbs up,” Alpha said. “They see how much I enjoy it and it’s good for me.” Her youngest daughter has also started racing. In April, Alpha will be heading to California to compete in the Sea Otter in Monterrey. “I was able to go last year. It was pretty amazing,” Alpha said. She will then continue with a busy racing season. “I’ll just keep pushing forward to see what I can do,” Alpha said.

“I want to have fun and encourage people to do something new," — Meagan Alpha.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

The Knob Hills trails are a hidden gem in the area.

Hidden Gem Knob Hills trail provides challenge, beautiful ride or hike

Rolling through the hills along Denton Creek to Grapevine Lake is the area’s hidden gem for mountain bikers and hikers — Knob Hills. For the past seven years, T.J. Lupinacci has served as the trail steward for the Knob Hills trails, which draw a crowd of thrillseekers and recreation enthusiasts. “My favorite part of being involved is seeing a lot of smiling faces on the trail and knowing you played a part in a lot of good times for a lot of people,” Lupinacci said. “It is very rewarding.” Knob Hills is managed by the Dallas Off Road Biking Association (DORBA) on U.S. Army Corp of Engineers land. The “medium difficulty” trail is 13.1 miles long. “When we finished the trail on Aug. 1, 2017, I thought a half marathon was a good length of trail to stop at,” Lupinacci said. “We could have easily doubled that, but it was important to me to keep the beauty and harmony of the outdoors. We did not want a maze of trails destroying the beauty of the outdoors.” The winding trails have several climbs but do not have the elevation of some of the other trails in the region. “I tried to incorporate a lot of variety into it,” Lupinacci said. “You can only work with the land you’re given though and unfortunately there’s not much elevation for climbing. We did a great job with what we were given. It will certainly test you.”

O UR TOWN | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

DORBA The Dallas Off-Road Biking Association (DORBA) maintains approximately 30 bike trails throughout North Texas. The organization relies on volunteers to keep the trails clean and safe. DORBA holds public work days multiple times per year to perform maintenance. DORBA provides the equipment. “We usually have three public work days a year — spring, summer and one in the fall,” said T.J Lupinacci, Knob Hills Trail Steward. “We put notices on our Facebook page. They usually last 4 to 5 hours.”

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICHARD GREENE

Stay off

DARC

Safety

After rains or during wet conditions, Knob Hills trails will close. It’s vitally important for bikers and hikers to refrain from using muddy trails. “We close the trail when wet because it destroys the trail,” said T.J Lupinacci Knob Hills Trail Steward. “It creates ruts that hold water. People try to avoid the mud by walking around it and widen the trail. It creates more ruts and destroys the vegetation the wildlife need.” Parts of the Knob Hills trail are classified as Environmentally Sensitive Protected Area.

On weekends along with bikers, it’s not unusual to see a group of runners on the Knob Hills trails. Many are members of the Denton Area Running Club (DARC). DARC holds several running events, trail and road races, throughout the year and a weekly social run at Oak Street Drafthouse in Denton. DARC has held multiple trail races at Knob Hills and this year’s is slated for Sept. 30, with registration now open at dentonarearunningclub.org/ knob-hills.

Before getting on the trail, make sure your bike is in good working order and you have the proper tools to make any repairs. There is no water on the trail, so make sure you have adequate water, especially in the hot Texas summers. You should bring your cell phone in case of an emergency. You should also let someone know how long you plan to be on the trail and check in with them when leaving.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

AP RIL 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Northlake. N E I GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

The Highlands Ph 1

$1,550,000

100%

Forslund Add

1,525,000

1,450,000

95.1

The Highlands

1,395,000

1,380,000

98.9

249

The Highlands of North

1,390,000

1,350,000

97.1

133

The Highlands Ph 2

1,299,000

1,270,000

97.8

The Highlands Ph 1

1,250,000

1,200,000

The Highlands at

1,044,900

100

Stardust Ranch Ph 2

879,000

100

Canyon Falls

946,937

837,000

88.4

253

The Ridge at Northlake

884,327

831,256

Michele Nemecek R E ALTOR

My jo b i s to m a ke t h e R ea l E st ate pro ces s ea s y. How c a n I h el p yo u? L et ’s Ta l k . . .

Contact Info

972-977-7484 michelenemecek@kw.com

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | R EAL E STATE

OMEGA FIT 4 LIFE

CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO THE TEST TO HELP YOUR DOG

be the best

BECOME FIT. FIT FOR LIFE. GROUP CLASSES PERSONAL TRAINING ONLINE/ REMOTE TRAINING

Book an appointment today MyJoyUnleashed Dog Behaviorist and Trainer

469.271.1134 | myjoyunleashed.com

1 (682) 269 1980 omegafit4l.com Vomega_fit4l

10% OFF PRODUCTS when you mention Northlake City Lifestyle

Weekly Pool Maintenance Equipment Repairs » Drain & Cleans Filter Cleans » Deck o Shield

Renew Yourself

HAIR CLEANSING & STYLING 940.584.0300 | RAMONSHAIRDESIGN.COM

(214) 998-4667 » premiumpoolsmithdfw.com

INFO@RAMONSHAIRDESIGN.COM

322 E Northwest Hwy Grapevine, Texas 76051 AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

Sleep Inside, Outside

Photography by Amangiri, USA

3 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience. For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors. Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | TRAVE L

Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus.

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas.

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns. Photography by Pacuare Lodge AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

APRIL 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. APR IL 2ND

PPG 375

Where Healing Occurs and Hope is Realized “I have heard them crying out.. and I am concerned about their suffering” - Exodus 3:7

We are a trauma-focused counseling center treating individuals, couples, children and adolescents as well as the whole family. Services:

Play Therapy & Parenting Skill Building Art Therapy Substance Abuse Evaluations Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Codependency, Relationship Issues and much more Neuroscience Brain Center Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) EMDR Therapy Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Family Systems Therapy Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) Women’s Process Therapy Groups Child & Adolescent Process Therapy Groups PsychoEducational Workshops Teletherapy Emotionally-Focused Therapy Attachment Based Therapy Brainspotting Intensive Workshops for individuals, Couples and Families

(940) 222-8552 | redeemedlifecounseling.com 415 US Hwy 377 South Suite 102 Argyle, TX 76226 32

EVE N TS

T E XAS MOTO R S P E E DWAY | 1 1 :30 A M Indycar will return to North Texas and the Texas Motor Speedway on April 2. Fans will be able to cheer on some of the world's best drivers, as they turn laps at more than 200 mph. The Sunday race follows the Nascar Craftsman Truck Series race Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

APR IL 9 TH

Easter

NO RT H L A K E Easter Sunday will be observed on April 9. Sunrise service will be held at many churches throughout the area, along with traditional Easter egg hunts.

APR IL 18TH

Amazing Race

L A NTA NA C O MMUNI T Y E V E N T C E NT E R | 6 :0 0 P M The Lantana Ladies League will present its Amazing Race event from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Lantana Community Event Center, 1301 Haverford Lane. This year's event, featuring various challenges, benefits the Oxford House. CONTINUED >

Chocolate Factory & Gift Shoppe Workshops available in • Truffle-making • Wine/Chocolate pairings • Choc-uterie

HAIR CUTS | HAIR COLORS | EYE LASHES FACIALS | EXTENSIONS

Let us help with your Corporate Gifting & Gift Basket needs, too!

940-647-4882 TouringChocolatier.com 8356 Thompson Rd., Northlake

(940) 383-3433

Mention this ad before 3/31/23 & receive 10% off your in-store purchase of $50 or more!

sunlitsalonandco.glossgenius.com 2540 Lillian Miller Parkway Denton, Texas 76210 Unit 115

DO YOU REALLY HAVE TO CHOOSE?

ALL DAY

24/7 EVERY DAY

Franchising with us means making money and time for your life.

Personal Fitness Training B E YOU R OW N B OS S

SE T YOUR SCHE DULE

LOW F RANCHISE F E E

WO R K-L IF E BA L A NCE

No-Commitment Memberships NO CONTRACTS · NO STARTUP FEES

START YOUR OWN PUBLICATION CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/FRANCHISE

(972) 672-6483 | TheWorkoutPro.com 100 Country Club Rd. #113 Argyle, TX AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

EVENTS CONTINUED

APR IL 18TH

Tax day

YOUR GUIDE TO HOMES FOOD & FUN IN NORTH TEXAS

NO RT H L A K E The dreaded deadline to file taxes is April 18. Due to April 15 being on a Saturday, you will have a couple of extra days to get your taxes filed. Reach out to a tax professional for assistance.

APR IL 20 TH

Main Street Arts Festival

MA I N ST R E E T, F O RT WO RT H The popular Main Street Arts Festival returns to downtown Fort Worth from April 20 to 23. The festival covering 27 city blocks will bring thousands to downtown to take in the sights and sounds and tasty treats.

APR IL 22ND

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling

T E A XE T E R A , 1 0 1 P L A ZA P L . S UI T E 25 0 | 1 0 :0 0 A M Pilot Knob Rotary Club will be collecting lithium-ion and nickel metal hydride batteries during a recycling event. The batteries are found in items such as cell phones, laptops, tablets, electric toothbrushes and power tools. You may bring the battery or the entire device. Before dropping off the device, remove any personal data or perform a factory reset.

Free Current Home Evaluation and Introduction to a Fun Local restaurant

LORI BLAD REALTOR® (214) 498-7879

linktr.ee/loriblad | loriblad@gmail.com Serving Argyle, Northlake, and surrounding areas 34

EVE N TS

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Northlake

We build more than quality projects. We build trust. We are proud to be a family-owned and operated general contractor with over three decades of experience. Serving Northlake, Keller & Southlake.

L G C B U I L D S LARGE SCALE HOME RENOVATIONS, HOME ADDITIONS, NEW CONSTRUCTION.

L ux u r y B ran d Jewe l r y & Watc h Re t a i l er

817-769-6730 LGContracting.com

V @lgc_builds

Customized Elegance for over 40 years

Cu s to m d e si g n er s o n si t e t o b ri n g yo u r j ew el r y v i si o n s t o l i fe 940-565-8282 | nasrjewelersdenton.com

1800 Brinker Road Suite 100 Denton, Texas 76208

IF YOU A RE RE A DING TH IS . . . S O IS YOU R BE ST C L IE N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH NoRTHlAkE CITy lIfESTylE™ L E A R N M O R E A T C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / N O R T h L A k E AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/ N O RT HL A KE

Holi stic P roce ss + Inspirational Living N E W C O N S T R U C T I O N | I N T E R I O R D E S I G N | R E N O VAT I O N S 469.400.9570

schwenkdesign.com

info@schwenkdesign.com