West Fort Worth, TX August 2023

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Kids & Pets

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.

This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Fort Worth kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.

Cheers!

@WESTFORTWORTHLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Hunter Martinez | hunter.martinez@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Hannah Barricks | hannah.barricks@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Tori Martinez | tori.martinez@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Hannah Barricks, Gabby Cullen, Michelle Talsma Everson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Winny Hayes, Chantelle Marie Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockahart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

5 Best Ways to Stay Cool at Home this Summer

Senior

Day is August

A day to show appreciation for the elderly in our community.

We learn from their life experiences and seek their guidance. Senior citizens are known for being generous and helpful in times of need, which is why we celebrate and honor them on this day.

More seniors than ever are determined to age in the comfort of their own home.

Learn how Caring Senior Service of Fort Worth can empower seniors to stay independent at home as long as possible.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Lightscape Holiday Show Returns with Spectacular New Displays and Enchanting Holiday Music

The international, sellout sensation Lightscape returns to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden to dazzle audiences for a second consecutive year. With an astonishing 80 percent newly designed displays, this year’s reimagined event showcases an even more immersive and magical experience for visitors of all ages.

The show features an array of stunning light installations expertly choreographed to music.

Texas A&M-Fort Worth broke ground on new $150 million Law & Education Building

The city of Fort Worth and Tarrant County are collaborating with the Texas A&M System to construct two additional campus buildings over four-city blocks owned by the A&M System.

On June 21, the university broke ground on an eight-story Law & Education Building that will be the new home for the Texas A&M School of Law as well as other academic offerings by Texas A&M University, Texas A&M Health and Tarleton State University.

Fort Worth Zoo unveiled “Predators of Asia & Africa.”

In June, the Fort Worth Zoo unveiled the new Predators of Asia and Africa exhibit, finally bringing back the lions for visitors to enjoy. Bass spearheaded the $130 million capital fundraising campaign to execute the project.

Want to be featured?

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

Empowering Homeowners with the Absolute Best Experience Possible with Energy-Efficient Solar Panels

With our innovative approach and commitment to renewable energy, Eclipse Solar puts the homeowner first and creates a trusted partnership for those seeking sustainable and costefficient solutions. Our team of experts conduct thorough assessments of each property, taking in factors such as roof orientation, shading, and energy consumption patterns. This meticulous approach ensures that homeowners receive the most efficient and optimized solar system for their specific circumstances. By installing solar panels, homeowners can significantly reduce their dependence on the electrical grid and enjoy substantial savings on their monthly utility bills. We also offer comprehensive guidance on available solar incentives, tax credits, and financing options. By leveraging these opportunities, homeowners can accelerate their return on investment and achieve long-term energy cost savings. Eclipse Solar maintains a strong commitment to customer satisfaction even after installation. Our dedicated support team is readily available to address any inquiries or concerns.

Luxury Property Design & Construction

A Day on the Water

THE OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN A THRIVING FORT WORTH SAILING COMMUNITY IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK.

Michael Winfrey, President of American National Bank and Trust, can’t remember a time when he hasn’t been around boats. His father had one when he was a child, and even though it was more about cruising around the lake, the love of being on the water was something he carried throughout his life. In 2009, at the age of 29, he was invited to crew during a race, and he fell in love with sailing. From the science of aerodynamics and trimming the sails, to the strategy of getting around the course competitively, taking different wind shifts, it’s a sport that continuously challenges him.

“I was hooked when I saw how sailboats can perform with a good crew and how competitive the sport can be. Every crew member has a specific job – it’s definitely a sport that requires teamwork, tactical decision-making, and understanding the science of sailing. I don’t think you can ever stop learning from it.” he says.

“Being on the water is a great way to unplug with family and friends — almost like a small adventure. It’s a way to put things aside and focus on what I’m doing at that very moment.”

“I was hooked when I saw how sailboats can perform with a good crew and how competitive the sport can be.”

Michael’s home base for sailing is the Fort Worth Boat Club on Eagle Mountain Lake. It’s a hidden gem of a place — a family-friendly, full-service club that’s just 30 minutes away from his home in Fort Worth. The club offers adult and youth sailing programs through club owned boats; so someone who wants to learn more about sailing doesn’t have to own a boat to get out on the water. “It’s so much more than a marina. It has a wonderful history, dating back to 1929, with heavy involvement in National and International racing, including multiple America’s Cup syndicates. The members are amazing and love helping people learn the art of sailing on a basic or highly competitive level. If you’re interested in learning about sailboat cruising or racing, there is a fantastic resource right here in Fort Worth,” he says.

“Being on the water is a great way to unplug with family and friends — almost like a small adventure. It’s a way to put things aside and focus on what I’m doing at that very moment,” he says. He loves the camaraderie of his crew, consisting of 6 to 7 people, including his father, brother and his 14-year-old son who consistently attends the club’s youth sail camp.

Racing is one of the best parts of being a sailor for Michael. Besides his weekly races, he has other memories, including races in Galveston Bay and, his favorite, the Bayview Mackinac Race on the Great Lakes in Michigan. The longest-running race on the Great Lakes that has been held every year since 1925 - it’s a 290-mile race from Port Huron to Mackinac Island; Winfrey was asked to join as a crew member when the skipper, a fellow Fort Worth Boat Club member, asked him to fill in. This July will be his fifth Mackinac race—they’ve won 1st place the last two years and are going for a three-peat in 2023.

Real Peace of Mind

MUSIC JUNKIE STUDIOS

Kristi Judd has been around music her entire life. She is the daughter of a music minister, was active in school choirs and musicals, and continued her education by obtaining a music degree in college. Now, as the owner of Music Junkie Studios, a studio for students of all ages, she brings her passion and knowledge to Fort Worth. We had a chance to chat with Kristi about how music can enhance a child’s life, and as it turns out, music appreciation is one of the most important gifts a parent can give.

Music is more than a catchy jingle you might find yourself humming or a hit song on the radio you hear a hundred times in one summer. Music fosters life skills like organization, follow-through, and self-reflection and helps with social and emotional development. It helps kids interpret emotions and increases their ability to respond with sensitivity and awareness. It promotes personal expression, fosters cultural awareness, and improves mood.

“Playing and hearing music allows kids to become aware of the beauty in the world and themselves. It’s a supportive, holistic learning environment that teaches kids to cultivate grit and equips them with tools that set them up for success. Kids get satisfaction from mastering something, whether it be an instrument or a song,” says Judd.  Music helps develop cognitive skills like spatial and temporal skills, too, which come in handy for everything from geometry and physics to reading and language comprehension. “Vocabulary, phonological awareness, rhythm, pitch, and verbal communication are enhanced through music. And, kids are learning math in a fun way,” she says.

According to Judd, there are so many ways music can be a part of a child’s life. Kids bond with friends and family through music; you can start with nursery rhymes for infants and introduce age-appropriate instruments to toddlers, listen to music at home and

Songs and instruments offer essential skills that enhance a child’s place in the world. CONTINUED >

in the car, and move on to taking the kids to musical events like outdoor concerts or the symphony, using music-making apps. Even playing the drums on makeshift pots and pans works. You can even find restaurants with live music sessions.

“Listening with intention or mindfulness is just as important as playing. You don’t have to be the best singer in the world. You can dance, sing, listen to all different styles of music, and talk about how the music makes them feel. A parent’s affirmation is so important. Creating an environment where music is accepted and celebrated, not something that’s in the way, helps nurture a love for music and fosters an emotional connection between parent and child,” she says.  Music connects us to all our other senses and creates important memories for kids. Think back to a favorite song of your mother or father or an instrument a family member used to play. You might hear a tune and remember a special moment. Your child might be able to honor a loved one by learning and playing that very instrument. It’s all part of the experience of being human.

The Music Junkie Studios offers private lessons for kids, teens, and adults ages six and up in everything from singing to piano, drum, guitar, songwriting, violin, and even the ukulele. For the little ones, there’s a toddler and preschool just for them. In its eighth year, Judd and her Music Junkies teachers love being able to bring her love of music to others, and to watch their transformation. “It’s my jam. If we can grow the love of music in families, it’ll be so good for the world,” she says.

“Listening with intention or mindfulness is just as important as playing. You don’t have to be the best singer in the world. You can dance, sing, listen to all different styles of music, and talk about how the music makes them feel.”

Set

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5132 Camp Bowie Blvd Fort Worth, Texas 76107

Straight to the Pint

Summer in Texas is hot. Like really hot. So, every Fort Worth local needs a go-to spot to cool off. Buffaloes have watering holes, and the more than 317,872 families in Fort Worth, TX, have ice cream.

From old-school parlors to self-serve soft serve and assembly-line style a la carte shops, DFW has an ice cream establishment to satisfy every sweet tooth.

To narrow down the long list of prospective parlors, West Fort Worth Lifestyle explores a few exceptional places, all of which are sure to make you salivate.

MELT in the Fort Worth Stockyards is a craft ice cream shop focused on using as much seasonal and local produce as possible. Its "farm-to-table" approach includes a

rotating menu of seasonal favorites like berry basil, but still includes "always flavors" vanilla bean; chocolate chocolate; cookie crush (a blend of slightly salty cookies with dense dark cocoa powder); salt lick; cup of Texas; dark chocolate; strawberry; rocky roads; sweet cream; peanut butter explosion; and loaded cookie dough. The shop also offers a selection of shakes, "always sammie" ice cream sandwiches with house-made cookies, and pints.

In 2014, MELT founder Kari Crowe-Seher decided Fort Worth was missing a smallbatch, premium ice cream parlor, and she was ready to fill the void. She developed a base ice cream recipe with a high percentage of butterfat, giving their cones a new depth

of creaminess. Every ingredient in a customer's order is guaranteed hand-made without relying on flavorings or extracts, a theme for the shop that enjoys "keeping it real."

MELT often collaborates with other local restaurants to offer their ice cream as an addition to online food orders, shipping all over the United States through the online merchant Goldbelly.

Creamistry off 7th Street in Fort Worth uses all-natural ingredients to make premium scoops the same as MELT, but this shop flips the script with liquid nitrogen, using the frozen gas to make their ice creams not only creamy but super fresh, freezing each customized order on the spot. Customers can personalize their orders with over 60 flavors and toppings and have a choice of organic, coconut, or cashew milk at the shop because of the made-to-order freezing process.

Creamistry also serves mango, pina colada, pineapple nitrodole, and strawberry sorbet. Toppings for orders include cookies and candy, cereal, sauces like caramel and chocolate, and fruits and nuts. Customers can also upgrade the standard waffle bowl to a brownie bowl for extra decadence.

The parlor is nestled among retail shops in a pedestrian-friendly area, so shoppers are encouraged to stop into Creamistry and cool off with one of its cones, cups, shakes, or other confections. Parking is also not a problem, with over 300 surface spaces available nearby.

In Clearfork, Amorino Gelato al Naturale serves up old-school gelato arranged like flower petals on cones and cups in delicate clouds of soft creamed ice. Gelato's softer texture is not just an illusion; the treat is typically served 10-15 degrees F warmer than its stateside counterpart and contains significantly less fat, but that doesn't mean it's any less decadent. Gelato is richer and denser than American ice cream, with less milkiness. Authentic gelato uses more milk and less cream than ice cream and generally excludes egg yolks, a common ingredient in ice cream, although some gelato recipes might call for egg yolks.

Amorino sets itself apart with ingredients free of preservatives, artificial flavors, and flavor

enhancers to make its artisanal gelati. The shop's signature gelati are carefully scooped onto cones using a spatula to shape the ice into a rose, making each confection unique and easily recognizable. The shop adds a gelato-filled macaroon to the top of the treat for a final touch.

Also available are a variety of hot and cold drinks. Customers can create their own milkshake or sorbet drink with the flavors of their choice.

Childhood friends and co-founders

Cristiano Sereni & Paolo Benassi decided to combine their two passions: Italy and gelato and opened their first store in Paris in 2002. Their idea was to expose Parisians to the finest Italian gelato recipes. Their gamble worked, and the shops are more popular than ever in the States today.

The final stop on our list is Morgan's Ice Cream Company near Southside in Fort Worth, where "ice cream is their love language."

Co-Owners and married couple Jeff and Stephanie Brannon perfectly balance the business with Stephanie tasting and workshopping flavors while Jeff runs the business and daily operations. The couple is already familiar with running a small business, as the entrepreneurs are responsible for launching a

successful local coffee shop, Dwell Coffee & Biscuits, in 2014.

Morgan's Ice Cream is passionate about creating its own unique flavors. Classic flavors like strawberry become "Strawberry Magic" at the shop, with butter cake pieces mixed into the batter. Also on the menu are non-traditional flavor pairings like Wookie Cookie, a mix of cinnamon sweet cream ice cream with decadent chocolate shavings, and crumbled house-made oatmeal cookies.

The shop steers clear of sorbet, claiming it is not their cup of cream. But customers can enjoy shakes, floats, and affogato, a mix of ice cream and coffee. The shop also has vegan flavors and toppings for those with dietary restrictions, such as Fudged Up Cookie Dough. The order includes house-made fudge, chocolate oat, and coconut milk ice cream with hunks of house-made chocolate chip cookie dough pieces throughout. As a bonus, it's also gluten-free. Top the confection off with a dollop of vegan whipped cream.

Most important to the Brannon's, customers will notice the shop's service-focused environment, where servers treat patrons like family. "We want every customer to leave with a smile on their face," the couple says on their website.

“Every ingredient in a customer’s order is guaranteed hand-made without relying on flavorings or extracts, a theme for the shop that enjoys ‘keeping it real.’”

Family Meals Made Easy

SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCER WINNY HAYES SHARES FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECIPES

With an estimated 276,000 followers on Instagram, 1.5 million followers on TikTok and 974,000 subscribers on YouTube, busy mom of two, Winny Hayes, has reached social media influencer status. Her fun and approachable videos and images feature colorful, easy-to-make dinners and lunches that she feeds her family, and they receive hundreds of thousands of regular views.

“I have two kids, ages 8 and 9, who were born 11 months apart,” Hayes says. “My son was a great eater until he was about 18 months old and then he became very picky. I was freaking out trying to find solutions, so I’d do different things like take his food to the park and experiment with packing Bento boxes because then the food didn’t touch. So, it started from there.”

As time went on, Hayes packed more creative lunches for her husband and growing children. She focused on imaginative but easy-to-make recipes, including dinners that could be repurposed for delicious lunches the next day. Her specialty is healthy, colorful and vibrant meals that kids actually want to eat. She’s all about being efficient and saving time without sacrificing flavor.

“I never realized my passion until I started doing this, but honestly, I love cooking, packing lunches and helping fellow busy parents,” she shares.

“I most often recommend making dinner and saving a portion of it for lunch for your family for the next day. Then, it’s something you know your child will eat because it’s familiar to them.”

- Winny Hayes

Winny’s Kid-Friendly Lunch Tips

• Make an extra portion of dinner for lunches the next day.

• Invest in a good thermos for kids’ lunch boxes. Consider if your child will have time or the ability to re-heat something if they want a hot lunch.

• Don’t overwhelm them with new tastes and flavors—it can take multiple times for them to try new foods.

• Include a small treat in each lunch.

Rotisserie Chicken

Orzo Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/2 cup each, diced celery, carrots and onion

• 1/2 cup orzo

• 4 cups broth

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• Fresh parsley

• Seasonings:

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon each black pepper, granulated onion, ground ginger, ground turmeric and garlic

Directions:

• In a pot over medium heat, melt butter and add diced celery, carrots and onion. Add a pinch of salt and stir. Cook for about 5 minutes.

• Add the orzo and mix it in with the veggies, let this cook for 2 minutes.

• Add the seasonings and stir. After about a minute, add the broth, shredded rotisserie chicken, thyme and bay leaves. Stir and let it come to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8 minutes. Sprinkle parsley and enjoy.

Chinese Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of greens (a combination of napa cabbage, slaw mix and romaine)

• 1/4 cup shredded carrots

• 1/4 red bell pepper, sliced

• 2 tablespoons green onion, sliced

• 1/4 cup wonton strips

• 5 oz. shredded rotisserie chicken

• 4 oz. mandarin orange

• Dressing

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons vinegar

• 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Directions:

• Combine the dressing ingredients in a mason jar and shake.

• Combine the salad ingredients, pour desired amount of dressing and toss.

• If you are taking this to work in a lunch container, separate the mandarin orange, wonton strips and dressing.

More helpful tips:

• If your kids don’t like their food touching, use Bento boxes to separate items.

• Keep it simple: Make sure that children don’t have to put together their lunch (for example, don’t include build-your-own tacos).

The Dog Days of Summer

A local animal shelter sheds light on how to be a hero for animals in need.

BY

When caring for the homeless animals of Fort Worth, "It takes a village!" exclaims Saving Hope Animal Rescue Events Coordinator Katie Whittenburg. Since 2018, the rescue has been a foster-based non-profit, with a supply house in Benbrook for nursing moms and babies and more than 600 cats and 600 dogs in foster homes around the metroplex. Not a shelter itself but an organization that rescues animals from Fort Worth shelter code reds and euthanasia lists weekly. The sheer volume of animals the rescue deals with makes access to readily available foster homes and volunteers the key to its business model.

"Lauren Anton is our founder and Executive Director," says Whittenburg. "Laura Grice is the Director and Medical and Medical Coordinator. We also have a Benbrook House Manager, Aledo Property Manager, Foster Coordinating Team, Adoption Team, Events Team, Transportation Team, and other volunteers.”

Besides caring for the animals, the nonprofit needs volunteers to sort through and organize the donated supplies that keep things running. "The house in Benbrook also holds our supplies needed for fosters," says Whittenburg. "Including crates, food, beds, blankets, toys, meds, etc."

And currently, Saving Hope is developing a Rescue Ranch and Sanctuary in Aledo, TX.

"It will house many of our animals, a full-time vet and staff, and an education center," elaborates Whittenburg.

Needless to say, it's a busy time. But it's all worth it for people like Whittenburg, who continually search for more people to join their tribe.

"We are only able to rescue and save lives by having committed fosters to help us set our animals up for success and to be adopted," she says. "We cover all costs, but fosters provide the love and care these animals need while they assist us in getting them completely ready for their new home." And with the rising cost of caring for animals, fitting the bill for each foster family is becoming a burden for Saving Hope. "We spend over $100,000 in veterinary and medical bills monthly right now," says Whittenburg. "Our adoption 'fee' is more of a donation back to the rescue to continue to save animals, vaccinate, spay/neuter, and take on more severe medical cases.” So besides foster families and volunteer workers, Saving Hope relies heavily on donations from the community. And just as important as everything else is the non-profit's need for families to adopt their furry beneficiaries.

Throughout the years and her own adoption journey, Whittenburg knows well how adoption is also therapeutic for the family. "These animals provide unconditional love and happiness," says Whittenburg. "Rescues seem to be the most appreciative, fun, and loving animals that are so thankful for their humans. I personally began fostering in 2017. I am so thankful to be a small part of the amazing

things Saving Hope is doing for animals in our community.”

Besides the physical work the rescue does, volunteers also educate the public on animal welfare in Texas, sharing the back story of their rescued animals, and encourage adoptions through events, media, and social media. "People do want to help," says Whittenburg. "And they want to be involved. We are here to be the voice for these animals and place them in the very best homes." Whittenburg suggests that the perfect person to adopt a rescue animal is a committed person or family looking to provide a lifetime of safety, love, and comfort. "We know our animals give that," she says. "And they just want it in return."

Get involved with Saving Hope at www.savinghoperescue.org Facebook- Saving Hope Rescue Instagram- savinghoperescue

“We cover all costs, but fosters provide the love and care these animals need while they assist us in getting them completely ready for their new home.”

The real heart of the city.

Backyard Chickens

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages. There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low maintenance. And bonus – unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Oh and bonus – they make you breakfast.

The eggs from backyard chickens are the best—tastier and fresher than any store-bought eggs. Much of the day, the birds entertain themselves, picking at grass, worms, beetles, and all of the good things that go into making those delicious farm eggs. Plus, with their keen eye for insect pests, chickens make for great gardening companions.

Chickens can provide family companionship, fun, entertainment, sustainable fresh food, and plenty of poop that gardeners prize as a natural fertilizer/composting material. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things To Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple hen house can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through Spring and Summer and into the Fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor. Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor

run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

Kid-Friendly Chicken Breeds:

Certain breeds of chicken are also known to be great with kids. There are literally hundreds of breeds of chickens, and each is unique in their own way. Here are ten breeds of chickens that have been found to be good for children.

ARCHIE’S GARDENLAND

A Growing Tradition Since 1934

HERE, LIFE MEANS MORE.

Over 700,000 Plants Grown Seasonally 11 Onsite Greenhouses

Staffed by Degreed Horticulturalists and Passionate Gardeners

Locally Owned

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

“Stevenson Oaks means so much to me because when I was very sick they rallied around me like a bee rallies around honey. I cannot believe how uplifted–how loved–I felt. I know the people were genuinely concerned about me. Here, life at Stevenson Oaks is absolutely wonderful.”

WITH RESULTS

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

AUGUST 4TH

Gifted Summer Fest

THE LOT | 6:00 PM

An event created by creatives to inspire people of all walks of life, and to inspire everyone to be the best version of themselves and empower people to be the change they want to see in the world.

AUGUST 5TH

Introverts FM Show

THE RIDGLEA THEATER | 7:00 PM

The show headlines Mkn Coffee, an Indie Rock band located in Dallas, Texas. The group consists of vocalist and guitarist Blake Kleisinger, lead guitarist Nate Iturrino, bassist Clay Fearin, and drummer Atlas Scott.

AUGUST 5TH

Acoustic Hash

FT BREWERY | 7:00 PM

Enjoy the pet and family friendly venue while listening to the self-proclaimed "hodge podge" cover band with John Geyerman and Brian Davis both on vocals and guitar.

AUGUST 5TH

Clint Black

BILLY BOB'S | 10:00 PM

We look forward to welcoming Clint Black to Billy Bob’s Texas on Saturday, August 5, 2023. We offer a oneof-a-kind experience in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards!

A sample of recently sold properties in West Fort Worth.

AUGUST 10TH Frozen

BASS HALL | 1:30 PM

Experience the Disney magic of Frozen all over again during this live musical performance. Join Anna and the gang as they attempt to bring back her icy sister and reverse a curse that threatens to tear them all apart.

AUGUST 10TH

End of the Line

TULIPS FORT WORTH | 8:00 PM

This Allman Brothers tribute band is ready to bring down the house with a spectacular set list of favorites and a light show to match.

AUGUST 10TH

Plant Combos and Companions Class

BOTANICAL RESEARCH

INSTITUTE OF TEXAS | 6:00 PM

This class will help you create yearround aesthetic beauty by combining plants that offer refreshing seasonal interest with vibrant contrasting colors and textures. Companion plantings can even optimize the success of your edible garden by utilizing natural biological controls.

AUGUST 11TH

Texas Home and Garden Show

WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL CENTER | 10:00 AM

Texas Home and Garden is a unique opportunity to visit with multiple companies to help homeowners find the best fit and price for their next big project.

Roofing is Our Expertise, Commitment to Quality is Our Passion

When You Hire Us , You Can Expect Responsive Customer Care, Quality Workmanship & A Strong Knowledge Base.

XS Roofing & Construction knows how important it is to trust the people installing your next roof. As one of the top roofing companies in the Dallas-Fort Worth area our goal is to be your one stop shop for all your roofing needs. We strive to operate beyond the normal expectations of what roofing contractors can provide. XS Roofing & Construction stands out with hassle free services, exceptional customer care, and elevated business standards tailored to meet your project needs.

EVENTS CONTINUED

AUGUST 17TH

Van Darien

ATICO FORT WORTH | 6:00 PM

Mixing vintage and modern, Van Darien is a folk singer to pay attention to. The Tennessee-based singer songwriter highlights everyday uncertainties in her moody and soulful songs.

AUGUST 17TH

Project Fort Worth

ELKS LODGE | 6:00 PM

This meet and greet for the Tarrant County GOP features a guest speaker and is open to the community.

AUGUST 19TH

Ted Nugent

BILLY BOB'S | 10:00 PM

The American rocker hits the stage to rouse audiences with his classic tunes that have delighted audiences for decades. Don't miss his final tour this summer.

AUGUST 19TH

Harry Potter Bar Crawl

TEXAS REPUBLIC | 2:00 PM

Get up to no good while dressed as your favorite character from the franchise for this special bar tour starting at Texas Republic.

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THE RIGHT MIX RANCH Stunning 24-acre resort-style ranch with picturesque rolling hills, lush greenery and the tranquility of country living within easy reach of the city. This magnificent property features a stocked lake – home to a variety of fish species. The lake serves as the primary source of irrigation for the property’s impressive 9-hole, Par 30 golf course. Five different styles of homes, each with its own unique character and charm, are tucked into the heavily wooded terrain, along with the greenhouse, workshops, pasture and RV pad. This property makes for an ideal location for family or corporate retreats, an event center or retirement in style. Experience the breathtaking sunsets of this incredible property that has everything you need to create lifelong memories. This truly exceptional investment opportunity is located 20 minutes outside Fort Worth in Joshua, Texas. Listed at $6,600,000.