Texoma, TX November 2025

GRATEFUL TO SERVE

FEATURED LISTING - 565 OASIS DRIVE, DENISON, TX

Discover peaceful country living with this stunning 4-bedroom, 3 5-bathroom custom home on 11 acres and 3,691 sq ft of beautifully designed space Enjoy a full apartment/mother-inlaw suite with private entrances, a chef’s kitchen with granite throughout, and a luxurious primary suite with spa-like bath and private deck. Step outside to a true backyard oasis featuring a travertine patio, swim-jet pool, hot tub, and low-maintenance turf Property also includes a 36x40 workshop, a serene pond, and AG-exempt land just minutes from Lake Texoma, shopping, and medical care

This Thanksgiving, we're especially grateful for the trust and support of our amazing clients Helping you find the perfect place to call home is an honor we never take for granted Wishing you and your family a season filled with warmth, joy, and gratitude.

Thankful & Blessed

In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.

This month, I’ve been especially grateful for the small, everyday moments that make life beautiful: the laughter of loved ones, quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, and the chance to be part of such a vibrant community here in Texoma.

Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Texoma such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.

Inside this issue, some of our partners and community leaders share their favorite ways to give back during this season of Thanksgiving.  We also sit down with the team behind Cardinal Protection, serving Pottsboro ISD, and find out why local families are thankful for their support in our schools. Meet a local couple who celebrate love on a nationwide stage in Celebrating Love on page 28.

As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.

Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,

BARBARA IRELAND, PUBLISHER @TEXOMACITYLIFESTYLE

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Barbara Ireland | Barbara.Ireland@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Danielle Poche | Danielle.Poche@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Jennifer Haveman | Jennifer.Haveman@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Lucas Ridley | Lucas.Ridley@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katelyn Briscoe, Mike Zapata

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Courtney Mitchell, Ashlan+Sailor Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

DEVELOPING THE Future

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Ebby Halliday Realtors celebrate 80 years in service at Habitat for Humanity of Grayson County 2: Melida Ailshire attends Paddle for the Battle Poker Run benefitting Women Rock, Inc. 3: Laying the Foundation for Education Brick Campaign by Pottsboro ISD Education Foundation 4: Participants of the 2025 T.V. Munson Wine Walk in Downtown Denison 5: The Owen Academy was a proud sponsor of the 2025 Charlie Willie Fest 6: Denison Chamber’s 3rd Quarter Luncheon with Lt. Colonel Robert Darling as guest speaker 7: Sherman Mayor Shawn Teamann and Denison Mayor Robert Crawley at the Battle of the Ax

business monthly

GLOWI AWARDS TO HONOR OUTSTANDING WOMEN

The upcoming GLOWI Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding women who are making a powerful impact in their communities, professions, and beyond. This inspiring event on November 19th at The Grill at 84 West celebrates leadership, innovation, and service, honoring those who exemplify what it means to uplift others and create lasting change. The GLOWI Awards serve as a reminder of the strength and influence women bring to every corner of society. Learn more DenisonTexas.us

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SCOTT SNELLINGS ELECTED AS FELLOW OF THE TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION

Please join us in congratulating attorney, Scott Snellings, on being elected as a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation-an honor reserved for less than one-third of one percent of Texas attorneys each year. In addition to this great honor, Snellings Law recently celebrated eight years of fighting for North Texas injury victims, helped clients heal, and stayed committed to their mission: making a difference-one case, one person at a time. SnellingsInjuryLaw.com

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TEXOMA FC SUPPORTERS REVEAL CREST

Texoma FC Supporters proudly unveiled their new identity and crest: WE ARE FLIGHT CREW! The main colors of the crest are the classic red and white of Texoma FC with the state birds used in the clubs crest sitting in front of a representation of the sun setting over Bearcat stadium. The secondary color, Air Force Blue is a subtle nod to Perrin AFB and the many crews who trained there. Follow on Facebok @TexomaFCSupporters

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ENSURING THE SAFETY OF POTTSBORO ISD STUDENTS AND STAFF

CARDINAL PROTECTION

ARTICLE BY MIKE

| PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CARDINAL PROTECTION

Pottsboro Chamber 2024 Non-Profit of the Year

“

“When students feel safe, they can focus more fully on learning, friendships, and growth.”

There is no doubt that our children face a more dangerous environment than ever before.   Keeping our children safe and protected is our community’s most important goal. School districts nationwide wrestle with how to accomplish this, and small communities with their limited funds are often challenged with this issue. The Pottsboro Independent School District [PISD] has faced this challenge, and thanks to the efforts of parents, concerned community members, and dedicated school district officials, a solution was created to help bring some peace of mind to the parents of students who attend the Pottsboro schools.

The Cardinal Protection Board is a non-profit organization that was created to help fund the hiring of an armed security guard. Emily Sissney, board member and Secretary of the Cardinal Protection board, was one of the original founders of the organization. “Our oldest child was starting school, and we wanted to have that peace of mind that we could help with protecting our kids in the event of a dangerous circumstance. We realized that adding an armed security guard would bring our comfort level up, but we needed to get some funding for a position.”

Biff Thornton, a Pottsboro school board member who serves on the Cardinal Protection board, as well as a parent of students at PISD, shares similar concerns.  “I was also involved in the beginning. As a parent of two small kids, I feel more comfortable knowing that we have an armed guardian on site in case of an emergency or other circumstance. I am proud that the community makes our children’s safety a priority and has some ownership in our efforts by donating and

contributing financially to make this happen. We have an annual fundraiser each year that people can attend to donate and be a part of our efforts. Hopefully, we will be able to add another armed guardian in the future."

Dr. Danielle Powell, Assistant Pottsboro ISD Superintendent, and a Cardinal Protection board member, offers why Cardinal Protection is so important.  “The mission of Cardinal Protection is to ensure the safety of every student, teacher, and staff member at Pottsboro ISD in the event of an on-campus threat.  In today’s environment, the district’s partnership with Cardinal Protection reassures stakeholders that we are working together to do everything possible to prevent or mitigate worst-case scenarios. I believe that funding a full-time armed security guard is not only about responding to threats, but also about deterring them. Visible, highly trained security personnel can discourage incidents, identify potential issues before they escalate, and strengthen the overall culture of safety on our campuses.”  Cardinal Protection provides the armed security guards at the middle school and elementary campuses. Having that person there does allow the district to keep the SRO at the high school, which is a huge asset. Powell continues, "Most importantly, my focus is on protecting both the emotional and physical well-being of our students. Safety is not only about preventing threats but also about creating an environment where students feel secure, supported, and ready to learn. When students feel safe, they can focus more fully on learning, friendships, and growth.”

To get more information, visit CardinalProtection.com

IN SEASON AT TWIN OAKS NURSERY

ARTICLE BY KATELYN BRISCOE

On Twin Oaks Nursery’s 10-acre slice of paradise, Garden Coaches and Staff have been hard at work carefully curating for the fall and winter seasons. Owner Corey Albrecht says they want to create an environment that people can enjoy and explore, with opportunities for inspiration in any season, indoors or outdoors.

“A lot of times we see a lot of busy people and our nursery is set up where it's inspiring,” Corey said. “You’ll see vignettes—little setups—of what the front of a house or a side of a house, or their front door can look like, and then they can get all those plants from us. Our staff cares about the customer…that's our main goal, to have garden coaches that guide and help someone create what they're inspired to create.”

The nursery stocks pumpkins, big and small hay bales, and other house gifts and boutique items for the fall season. Although most fall items will be clearing out soon, winter and Christmas plants are moving in. For the colder months, the nursery will have live

poinsettias, chrysanthemums, and live wreaths, but will not have the same high-end Christmas trees they’ve had the past two years. Corey adds, “We’re not going to do Christmas trees themselves this year, but we'll definitely have the chrysanthemums and the live wreath material.”

Twin Oaks will also have winter kale, winter cabbage, and winter flowers bedding plants for the colder months, which is an additional service they offer.

“We are very intentional about having premier products at good prices with the guidance to make your home stand out and feel welcoming,” says Corey. “It's almost 10 acres, so customers can get away from the hustle and bustle and just enjoy all the plants and roam around…We want them to have fun, slow down, and enjoy what God's creation is.”

Twins Oaks Nursery is located at 2107 FM691 in Denison, or online at TwinOaksOnline.com

ARTICLE BY MIKE ZAPATA

HeyDay Fun

Fall Family Fun, Food And Drinks At HeyDay Entertainment

Texoma families and residents searching for fun entertainment don’t have to look very far to find it. HeyDay Entertainment in Denison offers many affordable and exciting ways to spend a day with your family and friends. Whether you are looking for great food, games, or even live entertainment, you can find all this and more.

Chloe Stevenson, marketing manager at HeyDay Entertainment, was happy to share all that HeyDay has to offer Texoma visitors and residents.  “At HeyDay Entertainment, we have a mission to deliver exceptional entertainment and

dining experiences, and positively impact the community we serve through team members who embrace our core values to live the HeyDay Way. We do our best to be a family-friendly and family-focused entertainment destination. We believe our experiences, food, and drinks are perfect for the whole family to enjoy.”

At HeyDay, you will find family bowling, miniature golf, ropes, laser tag, and a full arcade downstairs, but the venue also offers a 21+ only area for a more adult experience. Here, you can find additional bowling lanes, massive high definition televisions with the latest sports action, a full bar, and of course, a great menu of delicious food, drinks, and topnotch service. You can enjoy watching the big screen televisions or your bowling competition from comfortable lane-side couches. Try your hand at billiards

or shuffleboard. Billiards offers professional, stateof-the-art, regulation-sized billiard tables.

Beginning this fall, enjoy Bingo in the 21+ section upstairs every Thursday evening. HeyDay also offers live music every 1st and 3rd Saturday. And don't miss game nights on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month!

In addition, HeyDay offers party rooms for birthdays, fundraisers, youth and group events, even prom or graduation parties. The youth birthday parties offer a variety of party packages, fun and engaging activities, comfortable and spacious facilities, and customer service to ensure a stressfree and memorable celebration.

Chloe Stevenson shares that being a great community partner is important to HeyDay Entertainment  “We want to be a part of the Texoma community.

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“We want to be a part of the Texoma community. We want to be the destination for families who are looking for an affordable way to spend a day, afternoon, or evening.”

We want to be the destination for families that are looking for an affordable way to spend a day, afternoon, or evening. HeyDay even rounds up donations at various times of the year to give to local charities. It is a way for us to give back to the community. In the past, we have donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation as well as the Toby Keith Foundation, which provides assistance for children battling cancer. We hope to continue to raise more money to help out

where we can. We want to be first on your mind when a family wants to have a fun time - we have something for everyone. It is always a fun experience when friends can come together to relax, play, and get a great meal or drink in a familiar place that feels like home.”

You can visit HeyDay at 5002 Convention Way, Denison, TX 75020.  For more information or to schedule an event, email HeyDay at denisonevents@heydayfun.com or call (903) 462-4010.

Partners Share Ways To Give Back This Thanksgiving Season

Supporting charities helps fund vital programs, provides resources, and uplifts those in need. Even small contributions such as time, money, or awareness can spark meaningful change. By giving to trusted organizations, you not only support important causes but also help build stronger, more compassionate communities where everyone has the chance to thrive. Our partners share some of their favorite ways to give back.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

NAT MCCLURE, STATE FARM

Grand Central Station

Grand Central Station is vital to many Grayson County residents!  If you haven’t rolled up your sleeves to serve others, now is a great time, and GCS is a great place to start. Earlier this year, my team was asked to work a couple of shifts.  Fortunately, we did and have developed a heart for GCS and the people served. It made us realize how much our community needs, and the experience blessed us. I peeled at least one million squash and potatoes – Scouts Honor! Despite having sore feet and hands, I managed to find my way onto the board of directors and now serve in several roles.

GrandCentralSherman.com

SUE WALLACE, FREEDOM BOAT CLUB

Toys For Tots

My favorite charity is Toys for Tots. I’ve loved being part of this program because it makes such a direct difference; every toy collected goes straight to a child who might not otherwise have a gift to open. We even bring Santa to our toy drive for a little extra fun. The season is about more than toys; it’s about bringing joy, hope, and dignity to families in need. The generosity it inspires in our community is what the holiday season is all about.

ToysForTots.org

ALLI DESHOTELS, RE/MAX

Child and Family Guidance Center of Texoma

Mental health care can change lives — especially when children are able to access help early. As someone who cares deeply about kids and families in our community, I’m proud to serve on the Board of the Child & Family Guidance Center of Texoma. This giving season, I’m supporting their mission to bring hope, healing, and accessible mental healthcare to local children and families. I’d love for you to join me — every gift truly makes a difference in our community.

CFGCenter.org

TEAM HUDGINS, FIRST UNITED MORTGAGE GROUP

Grand Central Station

We are Team Hudgins with First United Mortgage Group, led by Sales Manager Tonya Hudgins with team members Haley Halcomb and Michal Overturf. One organization close to our hearts is Grand Central Station in Sherman, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving those in need through meals, resources, and community support. Our team has been honored to volunteer there multiple times, helping serve lunch and connecting with the community. Michal also serves on their Board of Directors, giving us a deeper appreciation for the vital role Grand Central plays in the Texoma area.

GrandCentralSherman.org

DIANA THEALL, PRESIDENT OF DENISON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Shop with a Cop or Firefighter

One of my favorite charities is Shop with a Cop or Firefighter, proudly sponsored by the Denison Rotary. This incredible event was founded by our dear friend and fellow Rotarian, Fred Pilkilton, whose vision was to help underprivileged children experience the joy of giving—picking out Christmas presents for their loved ones, and maybe even a small gift for themselves. Fred poured his heart into this program year after year, ensuring every dollar raised went directly to the kids. Thanks to the unwavering support of Russell Wilthers, store manager at Denison Walmart, these children not only had doors opened for them but also received discounts, extra care, and a magical shopping experience.

DenisonRotary.com

CELEBRATING LOVE

DENISON COUPLE MAKE IT INTO THE SEMIFINALS IN NATIONAL CONTEST

The America’s Favorite Couple competition brings together sweethearts from every walk of life in a heartwarming showdown of love, laughter, and connection—all while supporting the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Oceana. Denison couple, Michelle and John Apodaca, shared their love story and made it all the way into the semi-finals in this national contest. We celebrate their journey and commitment to love.

Michelle and John Apodaca

1. COULD YOU BRING US BACK TO THE BEGINNING? HOW DID YOU MEET?

We technically met in high school. I moved back to China Spring, TX, my 10th-grade year, and John was graduating that year. Our paths had crossed several times prior to us actually meeting. His family almost purchased the home we sold when we moved to Plano. They ended up in a home my father built just up the road. I knew John’s best friend in High School from the time I was around 5 years old. John’s first memory of me was riding the school bus and having a conversation with my best friend about me. She told him I was coming to visit her, and he remembered hearing my name before when I came back to the high school about four years after that. We never really formally met in school because I arrived just shy of the end of the school year when he was graduating. He was a drummer in a local band, and about a year later, a good friend of mine told me she thought John was “the perfect guy for me,” so I started going to watch him perform. It still took a while for us to start dating because one or both of us would be dating someone else. But as fate would have it, we went on a first date and were inseparable after that!

2. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DATE NIGHT ACTIVITY?

We love to try new restaurants. Another favorite is “John and Michelle time,” where we just get in the car and go on an adventure to see where it takes us.

3. WHAT DO YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT LIVING IN THE TEXOMA AREA?

We absolutely love living in our historic home near downtown Denison. We have walking access to amazing shops, antique stores, restaurants, and fun events. It’s a lifestyle we always hoped for.

4. WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF MARRIAGE ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

To make time for each other and the family. Use the PTO. Take the trip. Making memories together is so important. Also, don’t stay mad at each other. Communication and forgiveness are essential in a marriage.

5. WHAT’S ONE SMALL THING YOUR PARTNER DOES THAT MAKES YOU FEEL LOVED?

As for me (Michelle), he always kisses me good morning, good night or goodbye. And he always tells me how much he loves me.  John says, “You always walk me to the door in the morning for an encouraging word, hug, and kiss. Always."

6.  WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE FUTURE?

Grandchildren! We absolutely cannot wait

“You always walk me to the door in the morning for an encouraging word, hug, and kiss. Always.”

BY COURTNEY MITCHELL

Cozy VIBES

Fall and Thanksgiving Seasonal Decor at Interior HomeStore

Fall décor is all about making your space feel cozy, warm, and welcoming as the weather cools down. You don’t need to go over the top, just a few little touches can completely change the vibe of a room.

Start with your front door. A wreath made of leaves, wheat, or even faux pumpkins instantly says “fall is here.” Add a couple of pumpkins on the porch—mixing sizes and colors keeps it fun and fresh.

Inside, think layers. Toss a plaid blanket over the couch, swap in some cozy throw pillows, and light a candle that smells like apple pie or pumpkin spice. The glow and scent instantly make the space feel comforting.

Natural touches go a long way, too. A bowl of pinecones, a vase with dried flowers, or even branches from outside can add that autumn feel without spending much.

The best part? Fall décor doesn’t have to match perfectly. It’s all about mixing textures and colors that make you feel at home. Whether you’re decorating for family gatherings or just want a space to curl up with a blanket and a good movie, a few seasonal touches will bring that cozy fall magic right inside.

InteriorHomeStore.com 702 N. Travis Street, Sherman

The Grill & Venue at 84 West is located in scenic, historical Denison, Texas. Our restaurant, event center, and pickleball courts sit on 250 acres of scenic woods and greenery, with a beautiful lakeside view.

Whether you’re visiting us for craft cocktails, dinner, brunch, a game of pickleball , or a special event, your visit to The Grill & Venue at 84 West is guaranteed to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

Tips on meal prepping for less stress

ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON

Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful.

Between grocery shopping, house cleaning, cooking and baking, it’s no wonder the day devoted to giving thanks can feel a tad daunting.

Here’s some very welcome good news: whether this is your first holiday hosting rodeo or you’ve stuffed many a turkey over the years, you can knock out most of the Thanksgiving meal prep work in advance – some of it two weeks before the big day.

To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.

2 WEEKS BEFORE

Create Your Thanksgiving Menu

• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will be much easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark or scrolling when your hands are covered with flour or onions.

• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.

• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand –even the ones you are pretty sure you have enough of, like salt and pepper (this tip comes from personal experience!).

• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.

• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout. CONTINUED >

4-5 DAYS BEFORE

Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh Groceries

• Clean your home completely, enlisting family members to help. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.

• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.

• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating. This will free up valuable real estate for your various dishes.

2-3 DAYS BEFORE

Prep Meals & Set the Table

• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.

• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go (and if they will all fit!) Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dustfree until Thursday. You can also do this for a buffet.

• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.

• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.

1 DAY BEFORE

Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks

• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum and shine up the bathrooms.

• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pies.

• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.

• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!

• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.

This magazine exists because Barbara said ‘Yes.’

Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.

Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?

Texoma City Lifestyle

NOVEMBER 2025

NOVEMBER 1ST

Dia de los Muertos Festival

FOREST PARK, DENISON | 10:00 AM

Featuring music, traditional dances, beautifully decorated altars, and activities for all ages, the Día de los Muertos Festival honors tradition, family, and culture. Guests can enjoy authentic food, browse local vendors, and experience the rich heritage behind this meaningful holiday. Bring your family and friends to celebrate life, remember loved ones, and be part of a memorable evening. DenisonArtsCouncil.org

NOVEMBER 5TH

Texoma Made Conference

AUSTIN COLLEGE, SHERMAN | 8:00 AM

Designed to showcase the talent and creativity of the Texoma region, the Texoma Made Conference will feature engaging speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities that highlight the power of locally driven ideas and businesses. Attendees will gain valuable insights, build meaningful relationships, and leave with fresh perspectives to strengthen both their professional and personal endeavors. TexomaMadeConference.com

NOVEMBER 8TH

Veterans Day Parade

DOWNTOWN DENISON | 8:00 AM

The City of Denison invites you to the Veterans Day Parade, Community members are encouraged to line the streets with family and friends to enjoy patriotic floats, marching bands, and special tributes to our local heroes.  Bring your flags, your cheers, and your pride as Denison comes together to honor those who have defended our freedom. CityofDenison.com

events

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NOVEMBER 14TH Magnolia Christmas Festival

CHOCTAW EVENT CENTER, DURANT | 2:00 PM

Experience the magic of the season and join the Texoma community for a holiday celebration like no other! This festive event brings Downtown Durant to life with lights, a parade, live entertainment, holiday shopping, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Guests can enjoy delicious seasonal treats, meet Santa, and take part in traditions that capture the spirit of Christmas. DurantChamber.org

NOVEMBER 19TH GLOWI Awards

THE GRILL AT 84 WEST, DENISON | 11:30 AM

The Grayson Ladies of Influence will shine a spotlight on outstanding women who are making a powerful impact in their communities, professions, and beyond. This inspiring event celebrates leadership, innovation, and service, honoring those who exemplify what it means to uplift others and create lasting change. For tickets and to learn more, visit DenisonChamber.com

NOVEMBER 22ND Pitmaster

Class: Turkey 101

WHEELER BARBECUE, DENISON | 9:00 AM

Get ready to sharpen your holiday cooking skills! This hands-on workshop is the perfect opportunity to learn expert tips and techniques for preparing a flavorful, juicy turkey just in time for Thanksgiving. Led by the pitmasters at Wheeler BBQ, the class will cover everything from seasoning and smoking to carving and serving. More information at WheelerBBQ.com