When I think of community, I think of the small town in which I grew up and remember the many people and leaders who shaped our town and their passion for a thriving and growing community.

When we started our By the Numbers series regarding the cities this paper covers, it was obvious that there is also a passion with area leaders to keep their cities vital by continually looking toward the future to find ways to keep energy and innovation a part of their plans.

In this issue, we finish our series as we take a look at Westlake By the Numbers and what makes a township. We also explore the expansion of Westlake Academy and its future plans as well as the contributions of incoming mixed-use development Entrada.

Additionally, Joe Szymaszek, Grapevine Mills mall general manager, recently invited reporter Renee Hansen and me to tour the mall. The mall has been undergoing renovations lately. Our Page 1 story covers the mall remodeling and what shoppers of The Mills can expect in the next few months. You will see the passion of Szymaszek and the Simon Property Group as the mall takes on a whole new persona.

Also, we focused in on local businesses that provide timely services during this season in our Wedding Guide on pages 20–21. From flowers, food, dresses and photography to venues and finding the right ring, there are a number of options in our area.

It's wonderful to see such energy and enthusiasm throughout all of the communities we serve.

Toni Barron, Publisher-DFW Metro, [email protected]