Living Magazine September 2020 by Arlington Living Magazine

TEXAS

S E PT E M B E R 2 0 2 0

THE FRIENDLY STATE

ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE

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contents | LIVING MAGAZINE inside this issue SEPTEMBER 2020 | t e x a s

on the cover 22 I AL CLARK INSURANCE

27 |

ask t h e EXPE R T

features

ST YLISH STAPLE

A pair of boots are a wardrobe must

A SWEET LEGACY

A look at Lammes Candies

M IXIN G WIT H M C CON AUGHEY

Texas icon stirs things up with Kentucky master distiller

SAY C HEESE

Queso isn’t the only game in town

T EJAS T RIV IA

A few fun facts about the Lone Star State

86 in every issue 10

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

58 WELLNESS IN THE HEART OF TEXAS STATE OF THE STATE

SOCIAL CALENDAR

FRUIT OF THE VINE

TALK OF THE TOWN

62 AESTHETICS

66 HOMESTEAD

THE SKINNY ON SCULPTING

RUSTIC REFINED

LIVING PET CLUB

82 ADVENTURE BUCKLE UP FOR BBQ

BEST BETS

LIVING LIKES

86 CUISINE MIDWAY MUNCHIES

FULL TRANSPARENCY

TURN BACK TIME september 2020

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

letter from the publisher

publishing PUBLISHER Misty Daniels EDITOR Heather Witherspoon

I hope y’all enjoy our annual Texas issue. As John Steinbeck wrote, “Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.” Living in Texas certainly has its perks. Where else can you go from city life to country living in a matter of miles. If you’re anything like me, being born and raised right here in the Lone Star State, you probably have relatives with land, cows, horses, and an open door at all times without notice. Don’t you love them! This summer, we took a little weekend getaway with our grand girls in tow to Gordan, Texas to enjoy the simpler things in life and unplug from reality. What a sight, with land as far as your eyes could see, sunsets that take your breath away, and time that slows to a crawl. Ahhhh, such a relaxing, refreshing, and peaceful time away. Though the enjoyment of the weekend was peaceful, worldly peace is so very temporary. Which is why it’s so important to to rely on the peace we experience from our faith in Jesus. He surpasses any temporary peace the world can give; and can ease our deepest fears and soothe any troubled heart. John the baptist gave us comforting words in John 14:27 when Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

contribution EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Landry, Anna Charles, LaRue Novick, Meredith Knight PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS

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letters from

O U R M AYO R S mayor

DAVID COOK

MA NS FI ELD

This month the Mansfield City Council will finalize the $183.4 million FY20-21 budget for city operations. This budget, my last as your Mayor, is quite significant for a number of reasons.

reduction in the city’s tax rate – to 69 cents per $100 valuation (projected) – will give residents some measure of property tax relief, one of this Council’s major goals over the last several years.

This balanced budget provides for operations of all City Departments, includes capital expenses, four additional police officers and one firefighter and support for bond projects such as roads and city facilities.

Thank you to city staﬀ for their many presentations and the information provided to Council that detailed budget strategies for this year and the years to come. The City of Mansﬁeld have a solid foundation on which to continue to build this City’s future.

More importantly it provides a 10 percent Homestead Exemption for Mansﬁeld homeowners. Every homeowner in the city will see a 10 percent reduction in the taxable value of their property as provided by the county appraisal districts. That, along with the two cent

mayor

RON JENSEN

The city of Grand Prairie recently added a position to the City Manager’s Oﬃce. Gerald Hodges is our new Inclusion Coordinator. He will work in the community building unity and relationships; and in the city organization cultivating our environment that encourages and supports diversity and inclusion. Gerald has been in law enforcement 13 years, eight years with the Grand Prairie Police Department. He graduated from Texas A&M in 1997 with a sociology degree. While at Texas A&M, he volunteered in the Multicultural Center and did community service work with Brothers of the Roundtable (a service organization). Gerald also facilitated drug prevention support groups in South Dallas to Highland Park with Rainbow Days Inc. During his seven-year tenure in education prior to law enforcement, he improved charter schools as an Assistant Principal in South Oak Cliﬀ and Fort Worth. Gerald is currently a board

mayor

GRA ND PRAI RI E member of the Grand Prairie YMCA and the TD foundation. In his spare time, he serves at Crossroad Christian Church as a decision counselor. Gerald plans to launch several initiatives, that include: Shared Leadership team – representatives from all city employee work groups will provide voice and input to ensure city is sensitive the the needs of all employees Friendship Day – allows city employees to devote a half day a year to volunteer with a service agency in Grand Prairie Mayors Ride Out Program – encourages citizens to ride out with Police Oﬃcers Unify Grand Prairie – a three-day progam for youth to better understand city government, and public safety Live Life Grand,

JEFF WILLIAMS

It never ceases to amaze me how Arlington folks rise to meet tough times. The COVID pandemic is no exception. Just this week, while AISD teachers and staff worked to get technology to students for safe online teaching, the Rangers baseball organization found a unique way to offer fans one baseball experience they’ve been missing. Getting 60,000 Arlington ISD students prepared to begin their school year online was a daunting task. But AISD teachers, administrators, and staff are determined to make this a successful school year. In the spring, they scrambled to distribute more than 24,000 technology devices to students. Now with classes resuming online for the time being, schools throughout the district made sure the rest of the students received the devices they need to learn from home. Meanwhile, the Rangers announced that fans can now

A RLINGTON order and enjoy stadium cuisine with their “Field to Table” program delivering their popular Grand Slam Pizza and Wings, Backyard Triple Play (burgers and hot dogs), and Rangers Smoke House barbecue to fans’ front doors with zero-contact delivery. And that’s just two examples. Throughout Arlington, we’ve seen neighbor helping neighbor, businesses finding creative ways to meet their customers’ needs, and city service workers keeping our city running—and us safe. Arlington citizens have demonstrated ingenuity and fortitude, kindness, and selflessness. I have no doubt they’ll find even more ways to rise to the challenges to come and keep making The American Dream City a wonderful place to live, work, worship, and play.

september 2020

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community | SOCIAL CALENDAR

September

BRUNCH AND BRUSHES

A r l i n g t o n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Every girl needs a day out with her mom! Come on over to Dottie Lynn for a morning filled with bright colors, beautiful paintings and a tasty brunch! This is a time to be with mom whether you are super creative or have not artistic abilities in your body, come have some fun and spend time with each other! Ages 5 and up. 9am-11am. 3200 Norwood Lane. For pricing information call 817-277-5001.

NOW - DECEMBER 10

SEPTEMBER 12 AND 26

DOWNTOWN URBAN MARKET

MOBILE PET ADOPTION

Come shop and support local artisans, makers, and farmers at the Downtown Arlington Urban Market. Listen to live music and so some shopping. Vendors will be set up on the sidewalks in front of Legal Draft in Urban. Event is free and occurs on the second Thursday of the month. 4pm-8pm. 500 E. Division.

Adorable adoptable pets looking for new homes will be available at the mobile adoption unit for immediate adoption! Visit with adoptable cats available inside PetSmart! Adoptions will be at the PetsmartÂŽ in South Arlington, 203 E. I-20 (Arlington Highlands) 10:30am-3:30pm.

Arlington

SEPEMBER 7 - 11

SEPTEMBER 19 - NOVEMBER 1

2020 EXTENDED CAMP

A r l i n g t o n P a r ks a n d R e c re a t i o n

Full day camps offered to assist parents during the mandatory online learning style of school is in session. We will offer a study hall time, games, crafts and other fun activities. Campers should bring a sack lunch each day. An afternoon snack is provided. The camp is for ages 5-12.Facility Card required. Only the full week fee is available. Free Lunch provided upon request on specified weeks. 7am6:30pm. Ages 5 years to 13 years. For more information call 817-277-5001.

FRIGHT FEST

S i x F l a g s O v e r Texa s

Fright Fest offers a wide variety of places to get your scare on including several haunted houses and scare zones located throughout the park. The ghouls are set free for their daily hunting rituals. SIXFLAGS.COM SEPTEMBER 22

GARDENING FOR POLLINATORS C i t y of A r l i n g t o n Wa t e r

6:30pm-8pm. George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, 100 S. Center St. For more information contact tracy.peterson@arlingtontx.gov.

SEPTEMBER 12

BARKS AND REC M a n sf i e l d

Our award winning Barks & Rec program pairs participants with shelter dogs for hikes through Elmer W. Oliver Nature Park. Enjoy a guided hike through the stunning nature preserve and the dogs will experience a much-needed break from shelter life, including fresh air, human contact and so many fun new sights and smells to explore. 8am-9am. $10/person; $2 discount for early registration; $2 discount with MAC Card. 1650 Matlock Rd. M A N S F I E L DT E X AS . G OV / C A L E N D A R

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

SEPTEMBER 24

ZOOM GET CRAFTY M a n sf i e l d

Join us for a virtual Get Crafty! Participate on a hands on project virtually from the comfort of your own home with all supplies provided. 6pm-7pm. Get Crafty supplies start on September 10, free. This reserves a bag for your Get Crafty supplies. Bag must be picked up 3

| september 2020

days before the program or it will be given to the next person on the wait-list. M A N S F I E L DT E X A S . G O V / C A L E N D A R SEPTEMBER 25-27

ASIA TIMES SQUARE MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL G ra n d P ra i r i e

Featuring Lions dance, games, music entertainment, multi-cultural tradition lantern parade, contests with prizes. 2625 W. Pioneer Pkwy., Grand Prairie

SEPTEMBER 26

PUPPIES AND PADDLES M a n sf i e l d

You love spending time with your dog and you love spending time on the water. At Britton Park weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be launching you and your pup in sit on top kayaks for a 1 hour paddle. All size dogs (and their people) are welcome. Lifejackets provided for humans and pups. Please be sure your dog can remain obedient and is comfortable in the water. Boats accommodate & fee covers 1 adult and 1 dog. Preregistration required. 8am-9am. $22/person; $2 discount for early registration; $2 discount with MAC card. 429 E. Seeton Rd. M A N S F I E L DT E X A S . G O V / C A L E N D A R

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community | FRUIT OF THE VINE

T H E PAT H

t o heal i ng BY AN DRE A JOY MOE DE

PICTURE THIS SCENARIO with me for a quick second. Your child comes running to you, crying and as out of sorts as youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever seen them. As you desperately try to figure out what is wrong, you see that the oversized bandage on their knee is gaping and hanging off in different places. You quickly realize that not only does the bandage need to be changed, but the wound underneath also needs attention. Despite that, what your upset child wants more than anything is for you to smooth it back on and send them on their way to play again. As a responsible caregiver, though, that cannot be your course of action. This wound you thought you had handled days earlier must be cleaned and dressed again. Knowing it will cause them pain, you also know it is whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best in the long-term.

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

Calming them as best you can, here comes the big moment. You firmly grab two corners of the bandage and give it a sudden rip. Whoa! Now they’re really mad and crying, even more, feeling betrayed and angry. Clearly, they’re going to need some emotional care and sympathy before you can begin to clean and bandage their knee back up again. This very setting is where we find ourselves in the United States of America. It’s an ugly place we don’t want to be, full of tears and moaning to be sure. While none of us relish the hysterics, it is helpful to realize we are on a path that will lead to our ultimate healing, if we can stay the course. Issues and tensions among our people have run amuck for decades. They have been buried over and over again and are now absolutely festering underneath the bandages. This time is full of a collective groan of people who cannot believe the bandage just got ripped off! They wanted it to be smoothed back on, so they could simply go out and play again. These childish impulses are understandable because no one wants to feel pain. However, with maturity comes an appreciation of time and the long-term effects of our decisions. Our citizens must wake up to the fact that our country will not get better

Outdoors Act. These lands and facilities have been decaying without funding for decades, and now suddenly (along with everything else) their plight has been seen and addressed. This is just one of many “happenings” that are being virtually ignored by the news. These are major policy shifts that are correcting the course of our nation, so why is no one discussing them? Could all of these data points really be just coincidence? Why would they be happening simultaneously as we battle a pandemic and head into a Presidential election? Is there more going on

until we do the hard thing. We must pull back the covers of our

here than meets the eye?

wounds, take a look at them in the light (ew, I know), disinfect

I believe we truly do find ourselves in the shoes of the crying

them as painful as it may be, bandage them well, and patiently

child described above. In general, America just wants things to

allow the healing to begin anew.

go back to normal already so that we can play again. However,

Even now as, you’re reading this, some may be thinking this is

there is a much bigger story unfolding if we are paying attention.

all too dramatic. Here is the thinking of that mindset: “We are

God is moving in unprecedented ways to right the wrongs of

just in a pandemic. Everything will be alright once it’s over.” Is it, though? Ask yourself why? Why is a virus that has proved no more deadly than the flu being used to shut down our society in ways never before imagined? Alongside this mind-boggling situation are the myriads of exposures and changes taking place all across our society. If you aren’t paying attention, you’d be tempted to think the timing of all these “coincidences” is shocking! Human trafficking rings are being discovered and broken up in numbers we used to only dream of. The prices of prescription drugs are finally coming down, after 50+ years of successive increases in prices. Uniform standards and training are being applied to law enforcement organizations on a nationwide level

previous generations. This is all towards an end of absolute good in mind! His plan continues to involve the rescue of nations by the power of the name of Jesus. The United States of America has a huge role to play in the world, but we must allow ourselves to go through this painful yet healing time. As I think about my children and the world they are going to live in, I know that sticking my head in the sand (or smoothing the bandage back over) cannot be my response this time. I must be awake to the happenings of the day, an active participant that finds solace in knowing this tumult will be fruitful. It will all be worth it to watch them grow up under the stars and stripes: this country that was founded to preserve liberty and justice for all.

for the first time. Terrorist groups are being dismantled quickly

So if you’re with me, shut off the Netflix (and the news) and

and without much fanfare at all. These are the very same groups

head into your prayer closet today. Ask our Father to continue

that used to brazenly behead people live on TV. International

to move in this land. Ask Him to expose all of the darkness that

agreements and organizations are being withdrawn from at a

is killing us. Ask Him to preserve the lives and livelihoods of

shocking rate, as America demands that they be reworked in

every American. Ask Him to pour out His love that all may find

a way that does not disadvantage us any longer.

comfort during this time. And while we’re at it, let’s all try to

One new announcement I saw today is the ongoing preservation of our national parks with the passage of the Great American

keep the hysterics to a minimum too, okay?

ANDREAJOY.ORG september 2020

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community | TALK OF THE TOWN

ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE

TEXAS RANGERS BASEBALL FOUNDATION DONATED $60,000 TO HELP SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL PROGRAMMING ARLINGTON-MANSFIELD AREA YMCA AWARDED GRANT TO HELP WITH BASEBALL PROGRAMMING

HE TE X A S R A NGERS BA SEBA LL FOUNDATION A ND GLOBE LIFE honored 12 different organizations with grants through the Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program.

The 12 organizations, located in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas received grants to support their baseball and softball programs, totaling $60,000. Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA was one of the recipients of the 2020 grant. The organization will use the funds for uniforms, as well as help maintain their program into the 2021 season.

Organizations were asked to complete a proposal describing how funding from the grant would allow them to give youth in their area the opportunity to play either baseball or softball. Grant recipients were selected based on need and the ability of the proposed program to improve youth programming in their local areas. FOX Sports Southwest helped to promote the grant program throughout the Rangers entire television territory.

“The Foundation has been able to help nearly 100,000 kids through the Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program over the last nine years. The 12 recipients this year will be able to use the funds to help grow their programs and further develop softball and baseball programs in their communities,” said Karin Morris, Vice President of Community Outreach and Executive Director of the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.

While the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation supports a variety of initiatives, the Grant Program supports youth baseball and sof tball prog rams in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma. Grants can be used for equipment, construction projects, field renovations, or other projects that help further the baseball and softball initiatives in that community.

The Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program was established in 2012 to promote the growth and development of youth softball and baseball throughout the Rangers’ five-state television territory. In its ninth year, the Grant Program has donated funds to 90 different youth softball and baseball programs, contributing nearly $700,000.

As part of the agreement with the Rangers, Globe Life has made a substantial commitment to support youth baseball and softball programs in the Rangers' five-state territory by joining with the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation in the grant partnership program. COURTESY: TEXAS RANGERS BASEBALL FOUNDATION

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ARLINGTON / MANSFIELD / GRAND PRAIRIE COURTESY: CARRIE DRYER/SPARK FARM

VIRTUAL GIVING DAY

HE 2020 NORT H T E X A S GI V ING DAY, powered by Communities Foundation of Texas will take place on September 17th with early giving launching on September 1st.

In 11 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ Nor th Texas Giving Day has generated $290 million for its community, drawing support from all 50 states and 39 countries worldwide. Donors broke another national record in 2019 when donations exceeded $50 million. And the May 5th emergency COVID-19 relief and recovery campaign in coordination with the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the Dallas Cowboys generated an additional $20 million. Donors can give early this year between September 1st and September 16th at NorthTexasGivingDay.org. Last year, more than $8 million was raised during early giving. On September 17th, donations can be made 6AM to midnight to the certified nonprofits listed on www.NorthTexasGivingDay.org. Donors can donate more than just their dollars. Volunteers can share time and talent by pledging to volunteer or through North Texas Giving Day’s virtual and socially distanced volunteer events September 1st through September 17th. Last year, donors pledged more than 622,000 hours.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT NORTHTEXASGIVINGDAY.ORG.

ON THE COVER BY MEREDITH KNIGHT

Ed u c a t i n g , e n c o u ra g i n g , a n d m a k i n g a d i f fe re n c e i n s o m e o n e ' s l i fe i s p a ra m o u n t to m e . I a m a l wa ys l o o k i n g to h i re c a n d i d a te s w h o a re i n te re s te d i n a c a re e r i n i n s u ra n c e a n d financial services. C a l l m e a n d l e t ' s m a ke a d i f fe re n c e to g e t h e r ! - AL CLARK

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| september 2020

STATE FARM’S AWARD-WINNING INSURANCE AGENT AL CLARK AUTO, HOME, BUSINESS INSURANCE, LIFE, HEALTH, AND FINANCIAL SERVICES

It was the early 80s and love was in the air. Al Clark launched his State

Farm Insurance agency in Arlington in September of 1979 and hit the ground running. Hard working and determined, he knocked on doors and met around kitchen tables, endearing himself to his new insurance clients throughout Tarrant County. Life was good. His business was booming. And a young woman had caught his eye. “I was State Farm Rookie of the Year, my first year,” he remembered. “Shalyn opened her agency in 1983. I was attending a lot of State Farm functions and she’d pick my brain, asking me different questions about the business. She even came by my office a few times.” Shalyn’s office is in Hurst and Al’s is in Arlington, so they weren’t competing directly. But as the two began to date and eventually married in 1988, they discovered a little friendly competition can be a good thing. Throughout their 32 years of marriage, Al and Shalyn Clark have placed #1 and #2 out of 19,000 agents companywide and are two of only three agents who have qualified every year for “Chairman’s Circle” since the recognition was started within State Farm. “We even share some clients,” Al laughed. “We’ve had couples marry and the husband was my client, while the wife was Shalyn’s (or vice versa). Instead of either of them switching agents, Shalyn and I just share them.” When asked which one was #1 to the others #2, Al insists, “She let me be #1.” (Smart man.) Over his 41 years as a top agent for State Farm, Al has made his mark in the company, in the lives of his clients, and in our community. Philanthropic by nature, he and Shalyn have invested their time and resources in numerous local charities, including the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club. Al supports low-income schools through his work with the Rotary Club, paying college tuition for any students who stay in school and graduate. And between them, he and Shalyn are sole sponsors of five different additional college scholarships. “The State Farm motto is ‘like a good neighbor’,” Al stated. “We want to be that good neighbor and make the place where we live better. This community has been good to us and we’re always looking for ways to give back.”

Al says he loves his job because he loves helping people. That includes not only their clients and the community at large but his employees. “Many of them have been with me for years and have become like family,” Al shared. “When our agency is thriving, their lives are richer because of it.” He’s also been blessed with loyal clients who recommend him to friends and family and, after 41 years in the business, is now serving three generations of some families. “I have customers who’ve been with me for all of my 41 years,” he said. “In the early years when I was knocking on doors, I’d work with one family then they’d introduce me to their neighbor next door and I’d sign them up, too,” Al continued. “I still get a lot of referrals now, but younger clients prefer to communicate through technology. I have clients I’ve never met face-toface. We communicate through email and text. Now, it seems we’re doing more work through virtual meetings, so some of the human connection is coming back.” When they’re not on the job, Al and Shalyn enjoy attending local theatre productions, Fort Worth symphony concerts, and the ballet. They enjoy live performances so much that on one trip to New York City they took in five plays in four days. If you’re looking for a partner to help you achieve your short or long-term goals and protect what you value most, give Al Clark and his team a call at (817) 468-3033.

LIVING MAGAZINE’S R E A D E R S C H O I C E FO R INSURANCE AGENT “ YO U D O N ’ T B U Y L I F E I N S U R A N C E B ECA U S E YO U A R E G O I N G TO D I E , B U T B ECA U S E T H O S E YO U L OV E A R E G O I N G TO L I V E . ” “ D R I V I N G R AC E CA R S I S R I S K Y, N OT H AV I N G I N S U R A N C E I S R I S K I E R . ” D A N I CA PAT R I C K “ I T ’ S N OT A B O U T W H AT YO U N E E D , I T ’ S A B O U T W H AT YO U R FA M I LY N E E D S I F YO U ’ R E N OT T H E R E . ”

AL CLARK INSURANCE

24 52 W EST IN T ER STAT E 20 A RL INGTON, T E X A S 76 0 17-1670 (8 17) 4 6 8-3 0 3 3

W W W. A L C L A R K . N E T AL@ALCLARK.NET

september 2020

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our picks | PET CLUB

PET CLUB Piper “She is a big stretcher and loves to sleep curled up right next to us!”

SAY WHAT? Male Adelie and Gentoo penguins “propose” to females by giving them a pebble.

- AMELIA C.

TRIVIA QUESTION!

ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS IS INCORRECT. WHICH ONE? A) All polar bears are left-handed, or rather, left-pawed

Snowball

B) A cat’s nose pad is as unique as a human fingerprint

“Loves carrots and a good book.”

C) Baby giraffes can stand within half an hour of birth

- ELEANOR M.

D) Butterflies taste with their antennae

Lord Percy “He is a white on black Yorkshire Terrier whose name reflects his English heritage.” - ROSALIND M.

PET CLUB MEMBERS Living Pet Club members are automatically entered to win our frequent pet-related giveaways! To join the club, send your pet’s name, your name, your address, and a clear photo of your pet to pets@livingmagazine.net or visit LivingMagazine.net/pet-club. They might just turn up in a future issue of Living! PETS@LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

(D: Butterflies taste with their feet)

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| september 2020

Pets Are A Part of the Family. Three Dog Bakery opened the world’s first bakery for dogs in 1989 and has been making tails wag ever since! We’re excited to share the same over-the-top experience with you in Mansfield. Bring your dogs and come see what all the fuss is about!

NORTH ARLINGTON 817 E. Lamar Blvd. MANSFIELD 3300 E. Broad Street Ste 142

817-795-3135 ThreeDog.com Follow us:

Visit us at our Arlington location or our new Mansfield location for some awesome treats. Your humans are welcome!!

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR PATIENTS ARE OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. IUD/NEXPLANON • ENDOMETRIAL ABLATION • HYSTEROSCOPIC STERILIZATION • COLPOSCOPY ULTRASOUND IN OFFICE • CONIZATION OF CERVIX/LEEP • BIOIDENTICAL HRT INFERTILITY TREATMENT • LOW LIBIDO CARE • HIGH-RISK OBSTETRICS 120 NORTH MILLER ROAD, SUITE 300 • MANSFIELD, TX 76063 • (817) 303-0496 WOMENSCAREASSOCIATES.ORG september 2020

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our picks | BEST BETS

BES T BE T S See our top picks this month, with a special Texas twist.

W H AT T O WAT C H

2. FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

days together before facing uncertain

Get your football fix with the show

the Vietnam War. The main objective of

1. OFFICIAL GUIDE TO TEXAS STATE PARKS AND HISTORIC SITES: NEW EDITION BY LAURENCE PARENT

inspired by H.G. Bissinger’s book Friday

their last hurrah is to dig up something

Freshly redesigned, this revised edition

depicts the trials and triumphs of life in

includes eight new state parks and

the small town of Dillon, Texas, where

historical sites, completely updated

football is everything.

B O O KS

information for every park, and beautiful new photographs for most of the parks.

Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream and the 2004 movie based on the novel. The award-winning drama

NBC.com, Hulu

called “Dom” near the Rio Grande, and this pilgrimage takes them on an epic road trip across the state with many twists and turns along the way.

TEX AS BRED MUSICIANS

4. GILMER, TX // JOHNNY MATHIS

The book is organized by geographical regions to help you plan your trips around

3. 1985 // FANDANGO

the state.

KEVIN COSTNER, JUDD NELSON

So, if you want to watch the sun set over

DIR. KEVIN REYNOLDS (ROBIN HOOD: PRINCE

Enchanted Rock, fish in the surf on the

futures, including the looming issue if

OF THIEVES)

The Best of Johnny Mathis

DALLAS, TX // EDIE BRICKELL So Familiar with Steve Martin

HOUSTON, TX // BILLY PRESTON That’s the Way God Planned It

beach at Galveston, or listen for a ghostly

Set in 1971, five college friends called

bugle among the ruins of Fort Lancaster,

the Groovers hit the road to travel

PORT ARTHUR, TX // JANIS JOPLIN

let this book be your complete guide.

across Texas to celebrate their last

The Essential Janis Joplin

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| september 2020

Imagery from Friday Night Lights (2008) NBC. Movie poster from Fandango (1985), Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainments. Book cover from Official Guide to Texas State Parks and Historic Sites: New Edition (2020) by Laurence Parent/University of Texas Press, with description excerpt from the publisher. Album covers and all other materials are presented for non-commercial illustrative purposes.

ask the EXPERT 2020 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT

PODI ATRY

GET BACK ON YOUR FEET

about the expert DHARMESH BHAKTA D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S.

ACCENT PODIATRY ASSOCIATES

Dr. Bhakta completed his undergraduate Biochemistry degree at the University of California at Riverside and his podiatric medical degree at the California School of Podiatric Medicine. He completed a podiatric internship at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center and a podiatric surgical residency at Englewood Hospital in Englewood, New Jersey. He’s board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, a Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and a Fellow of the American College of Footankle Surgeons. Dr. Bhakta is Wound Care Certified by the Woundcare Education Institute and actively involved in the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the Texas Podiatric Medical Association (TPMA).

WHAT CAUSES FOOT PAIN? Foot pain can be caused by many things including injury, overuse, or conditions causing infl ammation involving any of the bones, ligaments, or tendons in the foot. Arthritis is a common cause of foot pain. Injury to the nerves of the feet may result in intense burning pain, numbness or tingling known as peripheral neuropathy. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome can cause foot and heel pain as can tendonitis. Because there are so many potential causes, it’s important to have foot and ankle pain properly diagnosed. An experienced podiatrist can distinguish between all the possibilities, determine the underlying source of your heel pain, and create a viable treatment plan. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP FOR FOOT PAIN? If your foot pain has persisted for more than three weeks, swelling that has not diminished after a week, or you’re now feeling a burning sensation in your feet, then it’s time to schedule an appointment. While not serious, you may need a doctor’s intervention to fully heal. Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe pain or swelling, have an open wound or drainage, redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area, you have a fever over 100 F, if you are unable to walk or put weight on your foot. HOW CAN INGROWN TOENAILS BE AVOIDED ? It’s important to trim your toenails straight across. Don’t curve your nails to match the shape of the front of your toe. If you have your toenails done at a salon, be sure to tell your pedicurist to trim your nails straight across. If you have a condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet and you can’t trim your nails, see a podiatrist regularly to have your nails trimmed.

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

Keep toenails at a moderate length. Trim toenails so they’re even with the tips of your toes. If you trim your toenails too short, the pressure from your shoes on your toes may direct a nail to grow into the tissue. Wear shoes that fit properly. Shoes that place too much pressure on your toes or pinch them may cause a nail to grow into surrounding tissue. If you have nerve damage to your feet, you may not be able to sense if your shoes fit too tightly. Buy and wear properly fitted shoes, preferably from a shoe store specializing in fitting shoes for people with foot problems. Wear protective footwear. If your work puts you at risk of injuring your toes, wear protective footwear, such as steeltoed shoes. Check your feet. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily for signs of ingrown toenails or other foot problems. I ’ V E E X H A U S T ED A L L O V E R -T HECOUNTER METHODS TO TRE AT MY BUNIONS. HOW CAN YOU HELP ME? If conservative treatment doesn’t relieve your bunion symptoms, you might need surgery. Surgery is not recommended for cosmetic reasons; only when a bunion causes you pain or interferes with your daily activities. There are many surgical procedures for bunions, and no one technique is best for every problem. Surgical procedures for bunions can be done as single procedures or in combination. They might involve removing the swollen tissue from around your big toe joint, straightening your big toe by removing part of the bone, realigning one or more bones in the forefoot to a more normal position to correct the abnormal angle in your big toe joint, or joining the bones of your affected joint permanently. We always exhaust all non-surgical options before we advance to surgery. If surgery is your best option, you should be able to walk on your foot after your bunion procedure, but full recovery can take weeks to months. To prevent a recurrence, we’ll

ask the EXPERT

counsel with you about the right shoes to wear after recovery. WHAT DO ORTHOTICS DO? Orthotics are special shoe or heel inserts our podiatrist prescribes that are custommade specifically for you. Orthotics can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address various symptoms, usually having to do with pain and discomfort of the feet and legs. Some of the goals a doctor may have for orthotic treatment include: • correcting foot deformities • helping the foot or ankle function better • providing support to the ankle • reducing the risks for further injuries Orthotics are more than just a heel pad or shoe insert you can buy at most athletic stores. They’re highly customized shoe or heel inserts made for your feet. Your doctor will only recommend an orthotic if an off-the-shelf device or other treatments, such as exercises at home, haven’t proven effective. F L AT F E E T R U N I N M Y FA M I LY. H O W B I G AN ISSUE IS THIS? Flat feet is a condition that affects those who have little to no arch in their feet. Most people have a gap from the inner part of their feet to the floor, due to the normal arch that slightly rises off the ground. Those with flat feet have no such gap. It’s not uncommon for those with flat feet to experience discomfort or pain due to strained muscles and connecting ligaments. A healthy foot arch helps distribute your body weight while taking steps. Without an arch, there’s a larger amount of pressure on your muscles and ligaments in the feet. They become strained and may cause pain. To manage the discomfort from flat feet, we recommend exercises—such as heel cord stretches –to help loosen up calf muscles often strained due to flat feet. You can also place a golf ball under your foot and rolling it back and forth while seated. Get plenty of rest. Frequently ice

the affected area to help reduce swelling. Orthotics or shoe inserts can also help relieve the pain of flat feet. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SEE A PODIATRIST FOR GENERAL FOOT CARE? The answer ideally is “often”; as for when, the answer is “no time like the present.” Don’t wait for your feet to become intolerably painful or for that ulcer to grow acute. Especially if you are diabetic or suspect you’re diabetic. Note that the American Diabetes Association recommends at least a yearly foot exam by a podiatric specialist. WHAT IS THE BEST T YPE OF RUNNING SHOE? While there is no single running shoe that is perfect for everyone, these tips will help you find a shoe that will be perfect for you. • Choose a Running-Specific Shoe: Running Shoes may look like other sneakers, but they contain specialized technology and design features that help you run. • Get the Right Fit: A running shoe that doesn’t fit right will not only make your running experience painful, it could also lead to potential injury. • Choose the right type of running shoe: Running shoes are designed with specific purposes in mind. You should choose your running shoes based on what kind of running you want to do. • Know What You’re Paying For: When it comes to running shoes, a higher price tag usually correlates with more technology and comfort features, but that doesn’t mean you have to buy the most expensive shoes in order to enjoy a run. In a similar vein, opting for a very inexpensive pair may mean that the shoes aren’t designed with running in mind and may not hold up to the demands that running places on them.

GET IN TOUCH >> ACCENTPODIATRY.COM // ARLINGTON (817) 557-1006 • MANSFIELD (817) 477-3611 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT COSMETIC SURGEON

IT MATTERS WHO PERFORMS YOUR COSMETIC SURGERY

about the expert

MICHAEL L. THORNTON, DO, FACOS

MANSFIELD COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER

Dr. Thornton is a fellowshiptrained, double-board-certified cosmetic surgeon and a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. Additionally, he completed a dedicated 12-month fellowship in cosmetic surgery accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery focusing on all aspects of cosmetic surgery, including facial plastic surgery, cosmetic breast surgery, liposuction, body contouring surgery, nonsurgical aesthetics, skin care rejuvenation, and cosmetic laser surgery.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR COSMETIC SURGERY?

W H AT A R E C U R R E N T LY T H E M O S T P O P U LAR COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURES?

Ideal candidates for elective cosmetic surgery include those who don’t actively use tobacco products, are in good physical and mental health, and aren’t obese with a body-mass-index (BMI) less than 30. Health conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, history of heart disease, diabetes, use of blood thinners, or a compromised immune system could put you at risk for anesthesia-related complications.

According to national surgical statistics, breast augmentation continues at the number one spot, with liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and tummy tuck completing the top five most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. Mommy makeover, skin removal surgery after weight loss, “Brazilian Butt Lift” (buttock fat transfer), and non-invasive body contouring procedures like SculpSure and CoolSculpting also remain popular.

WHAT DOES IT ME AN FOR A SURGEON TO BE BOARD CERTIFIED? Being “board certified” means the surgeon has completed an approved surgical residency and approved cosmetic surgery fellowship-training program and has passed rigorous written and oral examinations that test the surgeon’s knowledge, experience, and surgical competency necessary to provide safe patient care in cosmetic surgery. Looking for a surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) provides assurance they’re accurately trained and experienced, focusing their practice strictly in cosmetic surgery. Diplomates of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery must complete an advanced 12-month fellowship exclusively in cosmetic surgery, where the surgeon receives comprehensive training in cosmetic surgery procedures of the face, breast, and body contouring, plus non-surgical aesthetics. WHAT IS COSMETIC SURGERY? T he procedures and techniques of cosmetic surgery are focused on enhancing a patient’s appearance and improving aesthetic appeal. Cosmetic surgery can be performed to enhance or improve areas of the face, neck, breast, and body and since cosmetic surgery treats areas that function normally, cosmetic surgery is designated as elective surgery.

WHAT CAN I E XPEC T DURING MY C ONS ULTAT ION W IT H A BOA RD - CER T IFIED COSMETIC SURGEON? First and foremost, schedule a consultation with a qualified, experienced, and board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Next, talk openly with them and ask plenty of questions so that you feel you’ve received straightforward and honest answers. Ask to see quality before/after photos or inspect photos from their website. A competent cosmetic surgeon isn’t likely to say “yes” to everything you desire and may offer alternative surgical options based upon your unique circumstance. WHERE WILL MY COSMETIC SURGERY BE PERFORMED? Don’t forget to ask your cosmetic surgeon where they perform surgery and whether it’s an “accredited” facility. This could be at a hospital, an outpatient surgery center, or a private surgeon’s office. For a facility to receive accreditation, it must adhere to strict standards in personnel, sanitation, emergency equipment, patient care, anesthesia, and inspections. Look for symbols of national accreditation including, AAAASF, AAAHC, or JCAHO. A competent cosmetic surgeon will proudly discuss their accreditation as a symbol of excellence and patient safety.

MANSFIELDCOSMETICSURGERY.COM // (817) 477-9000 << GET IN TOUCH

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

ORTHODONTIST

GET READY FOR YOUR NEW SMILE

WHAT IS THE IDE AL AGE FOR BR ACES ? Age seven—An orthodontic check-up should be done on all children at age seven. Braces usually go on at age 12, once all the permanent teeth are in. But most kids will benefit from an expander made with the new digital scanner to develop space for the permanent teeth. You can schedule a free exam with Dr. Hildebrand by calling (817)468-4141. HOW MANY MONTHS IS A NORMAL BR ACES TRE ATMENT ? 18 months—Most cases with Dr. Hildebrand take up to 18 months to get the teeth aligned and a great smile and bite. By starting early and utilizing the newest small brackets, with flexible wires and no dreaded “tightening” appointments, Dr. H can give patients beautiful smiles in just 18 months. If your orthodontist is still using bands around teeth in the back, get a second opinion with someone that uses mini brackets on the outside of the teeth. The best two treatment options today are mini braces and Invisalign clear aligners. With them we can monitor your teeth movements and give you the perfect smile HOW WILL MY LIFE CHANGE WHILE IN TRE ATMENT ? Straightening your teeth with Invisalign and braces is simple and shouldn’t require too much alternation to your lifestyle, except some dietary restrictions, to keep brackets glued on your teeth. Some soreness is inevitable. Keeping up with brushing and flossing should allow straightening with little disruption to your daily routine. DO BRACES HURT? No, the new, mini braces lightly move the teeth into a straighter position which limits the soreness and some patients say they don’t feel a thing. The new flexible wires

used by Dr. Hildebrand were designed by NASA to slowly align your teeth into a perfect smile. WILL BRACES INTERFERE WITH SCHOOL A C T I V I T IE S L IK E S P O R T S , PL AY IN G A N INS T RUMEN T, OR SINGING ? No - Advances in the mini braces and wires has limited the effect they have on your child’s sports or band participation. If you’re concerned with having braces on your teeth, ask your orthodontist about Invisalign.

about the expert

HOW SHOULD I TAKE CARE OF MY TEETH WHILE I’M WEARING BRACES OR A RETAINER?

DR. JED HILDEBRAND

Good oral hygiene is important to keeping your teeth healthy with braces. Brushing and flossing after meals can help keep your teeth cavity free while in treatment. With Invisalign there are no brackets or wires to trap food allowing a teenager or adult to floss and brush like normal while straightening their teeth.

HILDEBRAND ORTHODONTICS

WHAT ARE THE STEPS TO BEGINNING TRE ATMENT ? Same Day braces are a great way to get started straightening your teeth. Look for an orthodontist who allows you to start treatment the same day as your consultation, so you or your child can start treatment without missing another day of school or work.

Dr. Hildebrand has participated in Christian dental missionary work in Mexico, Cambodia, India, and Thailand. With his love of extreme sports, he can often be found snowboarding with his wife, Kim, motorcycling with his son, Kai, or wake surfing with his daughter, Liv. Dr. H is thankful to his hard-working staff and loyal patients for helping him enjoy the job he loves.

WHAT T YPE OF RETAINERS ARE AVA IL A BL E ? Find an orthodontist who offers clear retainers as well as glued-in retainers so your teeth can stay straight and beautiful after treatment. Some orthodontists don’t offer both types of retainers, so patients end up having to redo braces years later, after their teeth have begun shifting, which isn’t ideal for anyone.

GET IN TOUCH >> HILDEBRANDORTHO.COM // (817) 468-4141 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY

THE WONDERS OF BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT Q &A WHAT ARE BIOIDENTICAL HORMONES ?

about the expert

MANDY COTTEN, FNP-C

INSTITUTE FOR HORMONAL BALANCE AND BIOTE

Dr. Mandy Cotten, FNP-C has performed over 15,000 pellet procedures, averaging 300 per month. As clinic coordinator at BioTE, she helps train others in the importance of hormone optimization to assist patients in achieving the highest quality of life. She was named a Top Family Nurse Practitioner by the International Nurses Association. She’s on the clinical advisory board of BioTE and is currently involved in research to investigate the long-term benefits of hormones and the BioTE method.

Bioidentical hormones look exactly like your naturally occurring hormones. So, when they can enter your body, they go directly to the receptor site, and achieve the desired results. Conversely, synthetic hormones must be metabolized through the liver fi rst where they must convert to a different structure and sometimes can cause the opposite effect than what’s desired. Where conventional hormone therapy is often only available in one or two set doses, bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) dosage can be tailored to the individual patient’s needs. BHRT can be administered through creams, patches, pills, or pellets. Patients can contact the Institute for Hormonal Balance at (817) 467-7474 or Donovitz.com to schedule a consultation and determine which is best for them. WHY DON’T MORE DOCTORS UTILIZE BIOIDENTICAL HORMONES? Unfortunately, there was a—now discredited—study in 2002 called the Women’s Health Initiative which incorrectly indicated that hormones were dangerous for women. Due to the media’s exacerbation of this study, many providers and patients were scared away from hormone therapy— conventional or bioidentical. The primary investigators in this study have walked back their findings realizing they didn’t actually show bioidentical hormones to be dangerous for women. (However, synthetic progestins did increase risk for breast cancer and cardiovascular issues.) One of the primary investigators, Dr. Robert Langer has since said, “Over-generalizing the results from the women who were on average 12 years past menopause to all post-menopausal women, has led to needless suffering and lost opportunities for many.” Many women have unduly

suffered due to the overgeneralization of these findings. WHAT ARE THE BENEFIT S OF BHRT ? Balanced mood, improved sleep, reduced brain fog, decreased hot flashes, decreased vaginal dryness, increased stamina and energy, increased muscle mass, decreased fat mass, increased libido, heart protection, bone protection, brain protection, and enhanced sexual response and desire. HOW S OON C A N I E X PEC T RE SULT S FROM BHRT? This depends on the type of hormone therapy you’re using. Typically, you should start to notice a difference within seven to 10 days of starting a new therapy. With pellet therapy, you should notice a larger difference around the four-to-six-week mark. Sometimes adjustments to the treatment plan are needed. I ask new patients to commit to two rounds of pellets since dosage adjustments are sometimes needed to get patients feeling optimal. HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED TO FOLLOW UP DURING MY THERAPY? Hormone therapy is not black and white. We obtain initial lab testing, then test again four to six weeks after initiating therapy. The patient shouldn’t require labs again for another year, unless we’re adjusting their dose. Most male patients need pellet therapy every four to six months. Most female patients need pellet therapy every three to five months. HO W M U C H S H O U L D I E X PE C T T O PAY ? Pellet therapy for women is $350 every three to five months. For men it ranges between $650 and $750 every four to six months.

DONOVITZ.COM // (817) 467-7474 << GET IN TOUCH

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

ask the EXPERT DERM AT OL O GIS T

MOVING ON FROM SKIN CANCER – MOHS SURGERY MAKES IT HAPPEN

WHAT IS “MOHS” SURGERY? Mohs is a technique developed by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, in which your dermatologic surgeon will remove a skin cancer, layer by layer, and microscopically examine each section. This enables total removal of the cancer while sparing your healthy skin, reducing scarring and speeding your recovery. Mohs Surgery provides the highest cure rate for removal of skin cancer – up to 99 percent for a skin cancer that has not been treated before, and up to 94 percent for a skin cancer that has recurred after previous treatments. WHEN IS MOHS THE RIGHT TRE ATMENT ? Mohs is the gold standard of treatment for many basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), including sensitive and critical areas around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, scalp, fingers, toes, or genitals. In these cases, removing the least tissue necessary is essential to minimize scars or limited function. We also recommend Mohs for recurring cases, or aggressive cases where BCC or SCC are large, growing rapidly, have indistinct edges. Mohs has also been successful in treating certain cases of melanoma. WHAT HAPPENS DURING MOHS SURGERY? The surgery happens in three primary steps, all in one visit. First, the skin around the cancer will be anesthetized (numbed), and the visible skin cancer will be removed. Second, a thin layer just beyond the visible cancer will be surgically removed, processed, stained, and examined microscopically. You will have a short wait while the tissue is analyzed to confirm we have

removed all the cancer. If any cancer cells do still remain, steps one and two will be repeated. In the third step, once the skin cancer is fully removed, your surgeon will recommend the best way to treat and close the wound to minimize scarring, promote healing, and speed your recovery. WILL I NEED A SKIN GRAFT? How your wound is closed will depend on the size and location of the cancerous cells. In most instances, we can repair the wound immediately after confi rming the cancer is fully removed. It may be best to leave the wound open to heal, or to close it with a few stitches. Some cases may require a reconstructive skin flap, where neighboring tissue is moved into the wound, or by a skin graft. Your Mohs surgeon may coordinate the repair with another specialist such as a plastic surgeon. WHAT CAN I E XPECT AF TER MOHS SURGERY? There is usually minimal pain for a few days after surgery, and you should limit exercise and vigorous physical activity the first couple of weeks. You can expect some swelling and bruising, and even numbness around the site for up to a year. While scarring cannot be prevented, we make it a priority to minimize it. This is a definite benefit of Mohs Surgery. W ILL I H AV E T O RE T URN FOR FOLLOW UPS? Once you have had a skin cancer, you are at a higher risk for more. So, take care of yourself by following up with your general dermatologist on a regular basis. You are worth the extra care – we want to see you healthy!

about the expert

DR. ASHISH ARSHANAPALLI

UNITED DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES

While his primary focus is skin cancer surgery and reconstruction, Ashish also enjoys general dermatology and cosmetics. He has been published in multiple medical journals involving laser therapies for scar reduction. Dr. Arshanapalli graduated at the top of his class at the Indiana University School of Medicine, then conducted his residency in Dermatology at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago. He completed a Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship at the University of Wisconsin, the birthplace of Mohs surgery.

GET IN TOUCH >> UNITEDDERM.COM // (817) 539-0959 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT

PLASTIC SURGERY

DISCOVER YOU ONLY BETTER Q &A WHAT IS PL ASTIC SURGERY? Plastic surgery quite literally means reshaping. It comes from the Greek word, etymology, meaning

about the expert

“the art of remodeling”. Plastic surgery is the surgical specialty involving the restoration, reconstruction, or alteration of the human body. It can be divided into two main categories: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR PL ASTIC SURGERY?

Y ANTHONY NAKAMURA, MD, FACS, PA

ACCENT ON YOU PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDI SPA

Dr. Nakamura completed med school at University of Texas Medical Branch, his internship and residency training at LSU School of Medicine, Charity Hospital New Orleans and residency training in plastic surgery at UTMB Galveston. Dr. Nakamura is a member of the American Medical Association, the American Society Medical Association, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and Texas Medical Association and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Each cosmetic surgery patient comes to us with their own unique concerns, personalities, and goals for their appearance. After a consultation visit, we will discuss your concerns and desires and review your health history. We then devise a plan of surgical care that will give you the most natural results for your age and history. IS PLASTIC SURGERY SAFE? Choosing to have plastic surger y is an important decision and selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon is vital. Look for someone with experience, skills, and training, preferably with board certification from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Investigate your surgeon, his reputation, and the facility where the procedure will be performed. We offer a fully certified American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities accredited operating room which assures our patients the level of care they need and the comfort and privacy they deserve. A M I A BLE T O H AV E MORE TH A N ONE PROCEDURE AT A TIME? Yes, one of our most requested procedures is a Mommy Makeover, which is a combination of breast procedures and tummy tuck. In addition, some women also ask for liposuction to contour their bothersome

areas. Multiple procedures are considered based on the surgery time needed. HOW MUCH RECOVERY TIME/TIME OFF WORK SHOULD I EXPECT? Of course, each person is different, so each recover is different and dependent on the surgery performed. You’ll be up the day of surgery and will be given oral pain medication for early recovery as well as local blocks administered by an anesthesiologist to decrease discomfort in the first 24 to 72 hours of recovery. Most patients return to work three to ten days after surgery, depending on the surgery and type of work they do. WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON PL ASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES? According to American Society of Plastic Surgeons statistics for 2019, the most performed plastic surgeries were breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast lift. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years’ experience, I’ve performed thousands of these procedures with outstanding results. ARE THERE THINGS I CAN DO TO AID IN MY RECOVERY? Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to facilitate the healing process. If you’re a smoker, quit a minimum of four weeks before surgery, and don’t smoke for at least four weeks afterward. Nicotine slows healing and increases risk for complications. Take it easy but don’t do nothing. Get up and move gently and frequently, as soon as possible after your procedures, to promote good circulation, prevent blood clots, and ease stiffness and discomfort. Go to all follow-up appointments with your surgeon and listen to him, not the internet. Don’t take any herbs, supplements, or medications without your doctor’s permission.

ACCENTONYOU.COM // (817) 417-7200 << GET IN TOUCH

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| september 2020

ask the EXPERT F A M I LY L A W

FINDING AN ATTORNEY WHO REPRESENTS YOUR BEST INTEREST

DOES MY AT TORNE Y NEED CHILD CUSTODY EXPERIENCE? Absolutely. Experience in this area is critical as this isn’t an area of the law that strictly follows Black Letter Law. There are many nuances and fact-driven details that affect the outcome of a custody case. I’ve seen too many sad, terrified parents come into my office. They’ve lost custody at the divorce or first level of SAPCR litigation that has placed them and their children in a negative situation, simply because they had an inexperienced attorney. Intrinsic in this decision is the understanding that your burden of proof at a subsequent level of litigation may be higher as the court system tends to espouse a preference for retaining the status quo, once custody has been determined. The job of the attorney is more difficult attempting to modify a prior custody order. I can’t think of another area of family law that’s more important than securing the best custody arrangement the fit your precious children. WHAT IS COLL ABOR ATIVE L AW IN TEXAS? Collaborative law is a form of resolution of disputes that’s set forth in Texas Statute and authorizes the parties to a lawsuit to agree to manage their own case outside of the courtroom by attending a series of meetings with their “team”, usually comprised of the two parties, their attorneys—who are still charged with zealously advocating for their clients—, a neutral financial professional (usually a CPA or a certified divorce financial planner), and a neutral mental health professional in charge of running the meeting. All professionals are required to have special collaborative training in

order to assist the parties in reaching an out-of-court settlement they “own”, that they’ve reached on their own by determining which issues are important to them as a family, as opposed to a cookie-cutter divorce case according to the time constraints and schedules and laws that Texas courts are bound by. With a good team of professionals that work well together, this process can be faster than the litigation model, especially since the CORONA virus epidemic, which has caused a severe backlog in court cases. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to craft an agreement that’s acceptable to both parties with meetings conducted according to a tried and true Harvard model of interest-based negotiations. If you want an efficient and tailored process to craft an agreement that’s in the best interest of your family, I’d encourage you to consider collaborative law. HOW DO I DECIDE IF ADOPTION IS FOR ME? Adoption is a wonderful option for expanding your family. These days we have several different adoption models, such as “open” adoptions, where the birth parents stay in touch with the adoptive parents and the child, or traditional closed adoptions. The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt, PLLC has been blessed to be a part of many successful adoptions. We make the process as simple and stressfree as possible as we’re very experienced in filing adoptions, be it a stepparent or grandparent adoption or adopting a child from outside the family. We love to represent our adoptive families at such a happy time. What a wonderful opportunity to assist our clients in receiving the best blessing—a child to add to their family.

about the expert

DONNA J. SMIEDT

FAMILY LAW FIRM OF DONNA J. SMIEDT, PLLC

Donna has been practicing family law for 33 years and has handled hundreds of divorce cases, custody battles, complex property division cases with specialized separate property characterization and tracing, as well as valuation for division of closely held family businesses. There is not an area of family law with which she’s not extremely familiar.

GET IN TOUCH >> ARLINGTONDIVORCES.COM // (817) 572-9900 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT SPINE AND ORTHOPEDIC

OVERCOMING CHRONIC PAIN WITH TRUE EXPERTS IN ORTHOPEDIC & SPINE CARE

WHAT DOES ORTHOPEDIC & SPINE CARE I N V O LV E , E X A C T LY ?

about the expert

ALLAN BECK

BAYLOR SCOTT & WHITE ORTHOPEDIC AND SPINE HOSPITAL – ARLINGTON

Allan Beck has served as CEO of Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington since its founding in 2009. He holds a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Texas Tech, and a Master’s in Health Care Administration from UTA. His early career included tours as a U.S. Army Medic and as a Registered Nurse.

Orthopedics is the area of medicine devoted to treating issues with your bones, joints and muscles. Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital – Arlington is DFW’s only hospital focused strictly on this type of care. That’s everything from treating a stiff neck to surgery to correct broken or deformed bones, strains, knee and hip replacement, spine treatment, physical therapy and other areas of care. YOUR ENTIRE HOSPITAL IS FOCUSED ON JUST THOSE AREAS? Yes. We are a or thopedic and spine specialty hospital with a staff of experts and 10 operating rooms, complete diagnostic imaging capabilities, and a Pain Management Center. We were created with a vision of precisely this specialized type of care. We also have a full-service ER open 24/7 that offers outstanding emergency care – the average wait time is just eight minutes. WHAT TOOL S DO YOU USE TO DIAGNOSE ORTHOPEDIC ISSUES? Our hospital has a state-of-the-art suite of Diagnostic Imaging Equipment on-site so we can quickly understand the exact nature of a patient’s bone, joint or spinal problems. This includes X-Rays, CT Scans, MRIs, Arthrograms to pinpoint hard-tofind problems in joints, and Myelograms to examine the spinal canal. ARE THERE OPTIONS TO MANAGE OR RELIEVE SPINAL PAIN WITHOUT SURGERY? For people with chronic spinal pain from an injury or irritation, supporting muscles are often strained from overcompensating. This expands the pain’s reach, which can disrupt your life and even lead to stress and depression. Our team is here to help

you through and past spinal pain. It can often be treated successfully if it is diagnosed and addressed with a thorough plan. WHAT SHOULD A PATIENT LOOK FOR IN CONSIDERING JOINT OR KNEE REPLACEMENT? Our knees are subjected to massive force whenever we stand or walk. When issues and pain arise, total knee replacement can make an incredible difference, but it is essential to achieve a precise fit. We have orthopedic surgeons that are board certified and perform hundreds of Total Joint procedures each year. We also have a Robotic option available with our ROSA® Robotic Surgical Assistant system. This helps our physicians tailor the placement of your knee implant just for you. Before surgery, ROSA® creates 3-D models of your knee anatomy to help your surgeon prepare. During surgery, your physician guides ROSA’s every move with precision and the best decisions for your care. ROSA’s cameras and computer tracking map the exact position of your knee anatomy so we can place your implant with the utmost accuracy. D O E S B AY L O R A R L IN G T O N O F F E R S P O R T S MEDICINE TRE ATMENT S ? Absolutely. Many sports injuries can be managed with simple treatment plans, medication, and physical therapy; however, some may require surgery. We give you care and treatment options comparable to what pro athletes receive, and treat the full range of sports injuries such as knee ligament injuries (ACL/MCL/ PCL); broken bones; dislocations; pulled muscles; sprains, strains and tears; hand, wrist, shoulder, foot and ankle injuries; and spine injuries. Our goal is to get you back on your feet and back in the game quickly and safely.

BSWARLINGTON.COM // (855) 416-7846 << GET IN TOUCH

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| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

IN JEC TA BL E S

TOX AND DERMAL FILLERS

HOW DO TOX AND FILLERS DIFFER? DO YOU CONSULT W IT H CLIENT S ON T HE PROS AND CONS?

face creating an inviting and approachable look. Long-term, they can prevent further aging.

Tox and Fillers are quite different. Botox was the first “tox” developed for cosmetic use, but today there’s also Dysport ®, Xeomin®, and Jeuveau®. Tox treatments are tiny injections into specific muscle groups of the face and neck to relax the muscle. When the muscle is relaxed, skin is “relieved” and wrinkles significantly improve—or disappear. These modern tox formulations can show results within days, and typically last three to six months, depending on your unique anatomy. Fillers on the other hand, are used to “fill” areas of the face that lose volume over time, such as the temples, cheeks, smile lines, and lips. Results are immediate and last on the order of months. Together, tox and fillers are the “bread and butter” of aesthetics and provide outstanding rejuvenation with zero downtime. During your consultation at PAS, we review your medical history, answer your questions, and present your options in detail.

WHAT ARE THE L ATEST TRENDS ? HOW HAS TECHNOLOGY CHANGED OVER THE YEARS?

WHAT’S THE BEST AGE TO BEGIN TRE ATMENT S ? Our body’s natural collagen production begins to slow as early as our 20s. By our 30s and 40s, there can be significant lines, wrinkles, and volume loss in our face. Typically, the best age to begin treatments is our 30s, when changes become apparent. Every person is unique. That said, anyone over 18 can choose these treatments. W H AT A RE T HE BENEFI T S ? S HOR TT E RM ? L ONG -T E RM ? Short-term benefits of tox and fillers include a non-surgical rejuvenating effect to the face providing a youthful, rested, pleasant appearance. There’s an overall softening and relaxed appearance to the

We understand aging processes better and can treat in a logical manner. As we age, we tend to become “bottom-heavy” as skin and fat lose their elasticity and support. We like to begin treatments in the upper face and work our way down the face and neck to maintain a youthful “heart-shaped” form. Popular treatments now focus on youthful temples and cheeks, proportional lips and chins, and defined jawlines. Over the past 10 years, technology has made treatments safer, more natural, and innovative. SHOULD YOU ABSTAIN FROM ALCOHOL OR SPECIFIC MEDICATIONS PRIOR TO TRE ATMENT ? Alcohol and certain medications can lead to bruising during treatments. We advise no alcohol at least one day before treatment and certain blood-thinning medications for seven days prior to treatment. Always discuss your medications with your providers pre-treatment. WHAT’S THE COST OF FILLERS AND BOTOX? You’ll find a range of pricing across providers, due to the expertise of your injector, the location, and other factors. Tox injections are usually priced “per unit”, so the final price depends on how much is used. Typical tox pricing ranges between $10-20 per unit. Filler is typically priced per syringe and can range between $600-800 per syringe. PAS pricing is competitive. With the level of professional experience among our staff, you won’t likely find a better price in DFW—or elsewhere.

about the expert

DR. REBECCA GRECO

PHYSICIAN’S AGELESS SOLUTIONS

Rebecca Greco started her medical career in the field of internal medicine. With a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology, an MD from Baylor, and a lifelong appreciation of art, she founded Physician’s Ageless Solutions. She places an emphasis on educating patients and bringing ‘medicine’ to aesthetic medicine. Under her supervision, PAS offers hormone replacement, facial aesthetics, body contouring, hair removal, and sexual health treatments. Outside the office, you can find her on the baseball field with her three sporty sons.

GET IN TOUCH >> PHYSICIANSAGELESSSOLUTIONS.COM // (682) 208-1955 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING

TIME FOR A CAPABLE, EXPERIENCED CPA IN YOUR CORNER Q &A HOW CAN I FIND A TRUST WORTHY CPA? One of the best resources can be your friends and family. You can also ask your bank, financial planner, or local chamber of commerce for referrals. WHAT SERVICES DO MOST CPA FIRMS PROVIDE? about the expert

CASEY CAMPBELL

PSK CPA

Casey has been the managing partner at PSK CPA in Arlington since 2012. He provides tax plan consultation and oversees team projects in both the tax and accounting service departments. Before coming to PSK, he worked with KPMG for six years focusing on alternative investments, construction, and manufacturing clients. This exposure has carried over in his service to PSK and similar niche companies they serve.

Most CPA fi rms offer tax planning and preparation, bookkeeping and accounting services, audits and reviews, and business planning services. It helps to find a CPA that has knowledge and experience with your particular industry.

firms bill by the CPA’s hourly rate, some bill based on the services rendered, and some bill on a combination of the two. CPA services can be costly for a business, but if you utilize a CPA for your tax filings, audits, and bookkeeping work, you know you have a trusted and knowledgeable ally in your court. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I MEET WITH MY CPA?

A certified public accountant is someone who’s obtained at least a bachelor’s degree, completed specific advanced education courses, and passed the state board Exam. Requirements to be a tax preparer are considerably less and generally focused on tax accounting and preparation.

You should be meeting with your CPA at least once a year for your tax fi ling. At PSK, we think it’s best to stay in contact with our clients year-round, and we would suggest you choose a CPA firm that feels the same way. Your CPA should be accessible to answer any questions you have. They should also offer you tax planning and guidance, in addition to simply filing your tax return. Most importantly, you should consider your CPA to be a trusted business partner and someone with whom you can connect on both a business and personal level.

DO I NEED A CPA IF I DON’ T OWN A BUSINESS?

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER QUALITIES OF A GOOD CPA?

This depends on your needs. If your only need is for someone to help organize your tax information and present it correctly on your tax return, then a tax preparer should be sufficient. If you have complex issues requiring special knowledge or additional services, you should work with a CPA.

Your CPA should communicate in a way you understand and should be someone with whom you feel confident discussing your most intimate financial matters. They should be someone you trust to have your best interest at heart and whose opinion you value. An experienced CPA should feel comfortable working directly with a business owner from the ground up and enjoy being an active member of your entrepreneurial team. They should feel confident working in multiple areas including manufacturing, nonprofit, healthcare, business tax, personal tax, family-owned businesses, investment groups, accounting, payroll, estate, and trust work.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BET WEEN A CPA AND A TA X PREPARER?

HO W M U C H S H O U L D I E X PE C T T O PAY FOR CPA SERVICES? Recent surveys show hourly rates for CPA services range between $150 and $500 per hour. The cost greatly depends on the services needed, the amount of time that’s required to provide those services, and the level of complexity involved. Some

PSKCPA.COM // (817) 664-3000 << GET IN TOUCH

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| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

AUDIOLOGY

HEARING HEALTH MATTERS!

WHEN AND WHY SHOULD I GET MY EARS & HEARING CHECKED? Hearing loss occurs gradually over time. It is estimated that by the time most people make the decision to get their ears and hearing checked, they have not been hearing well or understanding clearly for seven years, or longer. Dr. Melissa Danchak and Dr. Desi Wood encourage all individuals to have a baseline hearing evaluation by the age of 50, and depending on the results of the evaluation, follow up annually or every two years. Regardless of age, if you are noticing any of the symptoms of hearing loss - difficulty hearing or understanding in noisy situations, difficulty hearing the TV (compared to others), your family is suggesting you get a hearing test, or if you have ringing in your ears (defi ned as Tinnitus) - the best first step you can take is to get your ears and hearing evaluated. ARE HEARING LOSS AND DEMENTIA R E A L LY L I N K E D ? According to research conducted at Johns Hopkins Medical Center, hearing loss can increase the risk of developing dementia by 200 to 500 percent. Compared with study participants with normal hearing, those with mild, moderate, and/or severe hearing loss face a significant increase in the risk of developing dementia over time. Research proves that hearing loss affects more than just your ability to hear and understand what is being said.

Dr. Melissa Danchak says, “Hearing loss is not normal, and neither is the extra workload that it puts on the brain. The brain is constantly working overtime trying to fill in the blanks.” WHERE SHOULD I GO FOR A HEARING E VA L UAT ION ? Just like each ear is different, each audiology practice is also different. “We are very humbled by the online reviews and recommendations our patients are posting publicly on Google, Facebook, and healthyhearing.com. Having patients share their experiences helps those beginning their search for hearing healthcare understand that Kos/Danchak Audiology is the right choice,” says Dr. Danchak. We encourage those searching for hearing healthcare to visit our website. We have a lot of valuable information and engaging videos to learn from. WHAT HE ARING AIDS ARE BEST FOR ME? Understanding the different types of hearing aids can be overwhelming. “The first thing to understand is that there are levels of hearing aid technology available.” Dr. Danchak says, “at Kos/Danchak Audiology, we use the results of your hearing test to demonstrate the best fit for your lifestyle. Hearing aid technology has the ability to enhance the clarity of speech – which is what most people want and need. They want to be able to understand speech better. They don’t want every sound to be louder. They want to clearly understand what is being said, especially when there is background noise present.”

about the expert

MELISSA DANCHAK, AUD, CCC-A

KOS/DANCHAK AUDIOLOGY & HEARING AIDS

Melissa Danchak is a Doctor of Audiology and owner of Kos/Danchak Audiology & Hearing Aids in Arlington, Texas. KDA has been “helping North Texans hear better for over 35 years.” Dr. Danchak has been the owner of KDA for more than 20 years.

GET IN TOUCH >> NORTHTXHEARING.COM // (817) 277-7039 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT

PAIN MANAGEMENT

GETTING YOU BACK TO THE GOOD LIFE

WHY PAIN MANAGEMENT AND WHAT CAN I E X PEC T DURING A CONSULTATION?

about the expert

THOMAS J. HONG

REGENCY PAIN AND THERAPY INSTITUTE

Dr. Hong is a specialist in the field of Interventional Pain Management. He is double-board-certified in anesthesiology and pain management by the American Board of Medical Specialties. He attended medical school at Touro University in San Francisco. Dr. Hong completed a residency at Maimonides Medical Center in New York City and a fellowship in pain management at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

Pain management allows patients to explore all their options prior to surgery. Here at Regency Pain and T herapy Institute, we’ve committed significant resources to make available most treatment options under one roof. There are many suitable treatment options for patients to choose from, including but not limited to physical therapy, manipulations, medications, procedures, injections, and surgery. Often with many insurances, patients don’t need a referral and can set up a consultation directly through our clinic. WHAT CONDITIONS DO YOU TRE AT ? Although 50% of my practice is focused on back and neck pain, I treat most painful conditions. I have successfully treated and managed joint pain, headaches, nerve pain, and pain after car accidents, to list a few. If the patient’s condition is something I can’t treat, I’ll do everything I can to get my patient set up with the correct specialist. DO YOU H AV E A MIS SION S TATEMENT P E R S O N A L LY O R P R O F E S S I O N A L LY ? I believe quality care is achieved by performing a thorough physical exams and obtaining a detailed history of the patient to obtain a proper diagnosis. The patient is educated on their diagnosis and then we decide together on moving forward with an individualized treatment plan. For example, there are numerous possible causes of lower back pain such as sciatica (shooting pain down the leg from a pinched nerve), facet joint arthritis pain (lower back pain from standing and

walking), sacroiliac joint pain (inflammation in the joint where the hip and spine meet), and the list goes on. Each of these different pain generators require a different treatment. In general, I tend to start with more conservative measures. However, if a patient is struggling to work, has severe pain, or decreased quality of life, their treatment plan can be accelerated. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR CONTRIBUT I O N S O U T S I D E O F Y O U R D A I LY C L I N I CAL PRACTICE? I strive to give back to the community both locally and abroad. This includes participating in local health fairs, attending national conferences, and participating in international health mission trips. I’m also a contributing author in collaboration with UT Southwestern Medical School for a textbook in the field of pain management which was published this year. TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU. I consider myself an open-minded person who’s willing to try new things. This translates well into my medical practice as I continue to incorporate new treatments, procedures and techniques into my skill set each year. WHAT DID YOU ASPIRE TO BECOME WHEN YOU WERE GROWING UP? Growing up, I always thought I wanted to become an attorney. However, after participating in a medical mission trip in college, I decided to pursue medicine instead. Fast forward 13 years and I can’t see myself doing anything else. I love what I do, and I love that I can make a positive impact in someone’s life every day.

PAINANDTHERAPY.COM // (817)-419-6111 << GET IN TOUCH

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| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

SURGEONS

DRAMATIC SURGICAL ADVANCEMENT

HOW HAS GENERAL SURGERY CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? Surgery has always had the glorious tradition of innovation, physicians who push the boundaries of the profession and advance the science. Over the last 20 years, I’ve seen significant advances with instrumentation and optics. These changes have allowed us to perform operations— that used to require large incisions— with small, barely noticeable incisions. More importantly, as communication and interconnectivity have blossomed, so has the availability and the expression of new ideas. We’re not simply limited to a few textbooks or journals but have vast resource of ideas and surgeons around the world can talk to each other instantaneously and share their experiences and innovations. WHAT IS ROBOTIC SURGERY AND WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Robotic surgery in its simplest sense is the marriage of the human brain and experience with today’s technological advances. Robotics allows our eyes to see with clarity and magnification anatomy that we could not previously see. Robotics allows our hands to move instruments with gentle precision in places where our hands could not previously reach. The benefits of this visualization and precision has proven to be fewer complications, less blood loss, and faster recovery. W H AT KIND OF RE SULT S C A N I E X PEC T FROM REFLUX SURGERY? The most insidious part of acid reflux disease is that it robs people of a freedom they used to have when they could live a life that didn’t revolve around heartburn, being able to have a cup of coffee or share a meal with friends without having to

worry about the misery to follow. Reflux and heartburn are often a fi xable condition. Reflux surgery has fantastic results allowing patients to stop taking antacids. There are several surgery options, all of which include fast recovery and resolution of heartburn symptoms. HOW MUCH RECOVERY AND TIME OFF WORK CAN I EXPECT AFTER ANY GENERAL SURGERY?

about the expert

Recovery from surgery varies depending upon the operation. However, with most minimally invasive procedures, major recovery is anywhere from three to five days and full recovery is anywhere from four to six weeks.

GARY K. ALEXANDER, MD, FACS, CPE

SURGICAL ASSOCIATES OF MANSFIELD

W ILL I H AV E A SCA R FROM M Y SURGERY? Scar-less surgery is a noble goal. However, until we discover more rapid cellular regeneration, such things are in the realm of science fiction. The reality is most, if not all, operations require an incision that needs to heal. The wonderful thing about modern technology though is that scars are becoming fewer and smaller every day. We also have advanced technologies that help these incisions fade to the point where they’re nearly invisible. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT PIECE OF ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE TO A PATIENT BEFORE THEY SEE A SURGEON? Take your time. Do your research. People spend more time reading reviews for products on Amazon or restaurant reviews than they do looking for a surgeon. Know why you’re going to see a surgeon. Ask questions. If you don’t understand the answer, ask the question again. Have a good dialogue. Remember that you’re the customer.

Dr. Alexander is a board certified general surgeon who is currently the trauma medical director at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center where he has also served as chairman of the department of surgery. He helped establish the hospital’s robotics program which is currently one of the busiest in the state of Texas. He is also an assistant professor at the new TCU medical school.

GET IN TOUCH >> MANSFIELDSURGERY.COM // (682) 518-8619 september 2020

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ask the EXPERT H O ME HE A LT H C A R E

EASING THE TRANSITION FROM HOSPITAL TO HOME Q &A W H AT IS HOME HE A LT H C A RE ? about the expert

AARON STEWART

HYGIA HEALTHCARE

An RN since 2003, Aaron began his career working in cardio, ICU, and burn ICU where he noticed a discrepancy between hospital and home health. With experience as a clinical educator for pharmacies and home health, he felt he could implement the right procedures and staff to bring a higher level of clinical care into the home setting. Eight years ago, he did just that with Hygia Healthcare. “Aaron has a passion for our patients, true integrity, and excellent people skills,” said his partner, Sam Austin. “I’ve been blessed to join him in his work here at Hygia. Aaron’s a true asset to our patients and our community.”

The traditional home healthcare model is that of a nurse seeing elderly patients. We want to change the perception of home health and the type of care it provides. More importantly, we want to help decrease re-hospitalizations and facility visits for our sicker population. We use hospital-based protocols and trained clinicians to provide true postacute care in the home of patients, after they leave the hospital setting. We focus on infusions, wound care, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), post-transplant, facilitating ventilation, and other high-acuity clinical care. Traditionally these patients would need to stay in the hospital or other facilities to be treated. But studies show that patients can recovery better—and faster—at home. When patients return home quicker, it decreases cost to the patients and improves their rate of recovery. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A HOME CARE PROVIDER? Your home health provider should have appropriate licensing and trained clinicians particular to your care and a good Medicare rating. They should be able to staff and provide on-call service to the area where you live. Because coordination between all patient providers is crucial in the post-acute setting, home healthcare should be a natural extension of your care from hospital to home. Home health staff should be polite, professional, punctual, and well trained. Look for a company that’s involved in the community with a sterling reputation. WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK A POTENTIAL HOME CARE PROVIDER? What services do they provide? Do they care for the disease process you’re experiencing, and will they coordinate with your other providers? Do they accept your

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

insurance and provide care in your area? What’s the preferred way to communicate your needs to the agency? AR E H O M E C A R E S E R V I C E S C O V E R E D B Y MY INSURANCE CARRIER? Home care and home healthcare are covered by many insurance companies, although the cost and the coverage may vary between insurance companies and insurance plans. The home health provider should have an employee on staff who can work with you to determine your coverage and advocate for you with the insurance company. IS THERE MEDICARE CRITERIA FOR HOME HE A LT H CA RE ? Medicare has home bound requirements to meet eligibility in the home. Your criteria are based on your disease process and required level of assistance. Again, an employee with the home health company should be able to walk you through this and help you determine your eligibility. HOW L ONG H A S H YGI A HE A LT HCA RE BEEN SERVING THE COMMUNITY? Hygia has happily served the Metroplex since 2007 and has grown steadily thanks to our stellar employees and enthusiastic referrals from our patients. We look forward to serving more patients and adding more services as we grow. IS HYGIA MEDICARE/ AHCCCS-CERTIFIED? Yes, Hygia Healthcare, LLC is a Medicare/ AHCCCS-certified post -acute home health care provider. With the service of our highly skilled health care professionals, we strive to promote, maintain, and maximize the level of independence in health in the comfort and privacy of our patient’s homes. Our motto is, “The Best in Caring for the Best in Life”. We’re also members of Texas Association for

ask the EXPERT

about the expert

SAM AUSTIN

Home Care and Hospice and abide by their strict criteria. HOW DOES HYGIA SELECT AND TRAIN ITS EMPLOYEES? Our education program was created by our director of nursing, a former CPICU/ burn ICU nurse and mentor. It includes a combination of in-office and field training. We provide in-house training on infusion pumps, wound vacs, drain tubes, suctioning, and other medical machines. Skills are perfected on medical healthcare mannequins in our in-house training room. Due to the level of care required by our patient population, our nurses’ skills in the post-acute care setting must be exemplary. HOW A RE PATIENT’S HOME HE A LT HCARE NEEDS DETERMINED? Patient needs are assessed through a collaborative effort. Input is gathered from the physician, caregivers, clinical staff, and case managers. Then we use best practices to create a unique plan of care for each patient. The goal is to get the patient to a pre-care state and provide education to prevent re-occurrences of exacerbations in care. D O E S H Y G I A E D U C AT E FA M I LY MEMBERS ON THE TYPE OF CARE BEING PROVIDED? Family education is crucial in the patient’s physical and mental recovery. We believe education should be a crucial component of any in-home healthcare, beginning with the initial visit and continuing well

past discharge. Follow-up nursing calls help decrease re-hospitalizations for our chronically ill patient base, with the goal of independence facilitated by trained professionals educating families. By partnering with families, we can provide a better quality of life for patients suffering from debilitating illnesses. WHAT’S YOUR EMERGENCY PROTOCOL? We have a trained emergency response team. When a patient calls, information is triaged over the phone. When it’s possible to treat the patient at home, we obtain the necessary orders for interventions. If a natural disaster occurs, we have a mobile medical trailer with an AED and a telemetry bay to serve as a mobile office and help assist the effected community. Our staff can be coordinated to assist our patients and other effected individuals. Proper communication between the patient, family, home health agency, and physicians is vital in decreasing the chances of emergencies. DOES HYGIA ASSIGN SUPERVISORS TO OVERSEE HOME CARE? Hygia has two dedicated RN case managers—one in the office and one in the field— who coordinate staff and oversee care. The director of nursing and director of clinical services meet with RN case managers to further review care and recommend modifications to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients. These checks and balances and followups help maintain a high level of care for patients in the acute setting.

HYGIA HEALTHCARE

Success was never difficult for Sam, whether on the baseball diamond (playing for University of Texas Arlington) or in his sales career. But he never found true job fulfillment until he began working in home health. “Communicating with people all day, creating new relationships while helping the elderly was something I quickly learned to love.” After years as the face of top home health companies around the Metroplex, Sam realized his dream of coowning Hygia Healthcare. “Our employees are our greatest asset,” he said. “We receive compliments on them from our patients and the community at large. Together, we’re really making a difference throughout the Metroplex”

GET IN TOUCH >> HYGIAHEALTHCARE.COM // (817) 478-7600 september 2020

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

ask the EXPERT A IR C ONDI T IONING & HE AT ING

YOUR HOME COMFORT HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT

WHAT MAKES UP YOUR HOME’S COMFORT?

about the expert

BRETT HOBSON

COMFORT EXPERTS

Brett is the president and owner of Comfort Experts. He carries on his father’s, Philip’s, legacy that began in 1962. Brett’s been working in the industry all his life. He carries on the tradition of staying abreast of the best technology and industry improvements to make sure his customers stay comfortable year round.

Comfort is so much more than just the temperature of your home. Along with heating and cooling your home, you need humidification, dehumidification, air purification, and air distribution. Being sure your heating and cooling system is properly designed and installed has more to do with your comfort and low utility bills than the brand of equipment you purchase. In fact, studies show 70% of your satisfaction with a new heating and air system comes from the company who installs it. WHEN IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER A NEW UNIT? The average life of an air conditioner in North Texas is 10-12 years. If your AC or heat pump is over 10 years of age, and your bills are steadily getting higher, or you’ve had to make repairs to your system, it’s a great time to look at your options. What you don’t want to do is wait until it’s 100 degrees or freezing because no air conditioning company is offering significant discounts then. It pays to be prepared when your equipment starts reaching its maximum life expectancy. W H Y IS IT IMPORTA NT T O H AV E A QUALIT Y INSTALL ATION OF YOUR NE W SYSTEM? A-Here in North Texas, your air conditioner can remove up to 20 gallons of water a day from your home’s air. About 50% of AC installations are in the attic or in the hallway of our customer’s home. No one wants that much water pouring down into the insulation and sheetrock where it can cause catastrophic damage to the

ceiling, as well as the floors underneath. Being sure you have a secondary emergency drain pan and water fault switch can protect your home from major damage. WHAT ABOUT THE DUCT WORK IN THE HOME? Over the years, your ductwork deteriorates and develop leaks that can diminish the capacity of your air conditioner and drive the cost of cooling your home way up. When we come out for any of our services, we inspect your ductwork for integrity issues. The heating and cooling units are the heart of your home’s comfort system. The ductwork is the arteries and veins. If there are challenges keeping all the rooms in your home comfortable, it probably comes back to your ductwork delivery system. WHAT DOES YOUR COMPANY DO WHEN THE Y COME OUT FOR A FREE ESTIMATE? We take professional pride in the fact that we custom design a system specifically for your home and family. We do a complete heat loss/heat gain survey, so the system is sized correctly. We also inspect the ductwork and insulation. Then we go over all the options for equipment and accessories. If you want, we can install a germicidal light system that will kill 97% of the germs within six feet of a sneeze. Comfort Experts is available 24 hours a day for repair service, maintenance, and replacement of heating and air conditioning equipment. They service and sell all brands of equipment. They are winners of the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for 2019 for ethics in the marketplace and a winner of Living Magazine Best of Readers’ Choice 2018-2019.

COMFORTEXPERTSINC.COM // (817) 341-5152 << GET IN TOUCH

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

HE A LT H & W E L L NE S S

EMSCULPT TREATMENTS

WHAT IS EMSCULPT ? Emsculpt is a non-invasive body sculpting procedure designed by BTL which uses electromagnetic technology to build muscle and burn fat. Through the high intensity electromagnetic therapy procedure one can enlarge current muscles, as well as grow new muscle fibers. It is designed for both men and women who want to achieve a more sculpted abdomen, buttocks, arms, calves or thighs. HOW DOES IT COMPARE WITH OTHER BODY CONTOURING METHODS/ TRE ATMENT S ? Other body sculpting devices target the destr uction of fat, whereas Emsculpt targets the development of muscle. This makes Emsculpt a great non-surgical alternative to the Brazilian butt lift. HOW DOES IT WORK? WHAT DOES IT DO? IS IT SAFE? Emsculpt is based on high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy. A single Emsculpt session causes thousands of powerful muscle contractions which are extremely important in improving the tone and strength of your muscles. These powerful induced muscle contractions are not achievable through voluntary contractions; therefore, the muscle tissue is forced to adapt by remodeling its inner structure. This results in muscle building and sculpting your body. The Emsculpt procedure is currently FDA cleared to treat your abdominals, buttocks, arms, calves and thighs. HOW S OON C A N I SEE RE SULT S ? HOW M A N Y T R E A T M E N T S S H O U L D I B O O K ? The normal course of treatments is 2 sessions per week for 2-3 weeks depending

on the body part to be sculpted. Optimal results are seen 3 months later. As with any body sculpting procedure–surgical or non-surgical–the best results and maintenance of results are achieved with proper diet and exercise routines. We place all of our patients on a clean diet during and after treatments to maximize these results. Many patients would benefit from a fat debulking procedure prior to muscle contouring. For this reason, our office also offers Vanquish ME which is a non-surgical radiofrequency fat reduction procedure. Vanquish ME procedures are done one session per week over a 4-6 week period of time, but can be repeated as needed. Vanquish ME can be done on the abdomen, back, and thighs for 360-degree treatment. W H A T I S T H E G E N E R A L C O S T ? T he minimum industr y pr icing for Emsculpt is $750/ session regardless of body area treated. At Skandii MedSpa, we utilize our Clean Start HCG Diet, Vanquish ME, and Emsculpt as a metamorphosis bundle. This package is designed to help our clients lose weight, reduce residual fat deposits, and sculpt their core in a 6-week period of time (maximum results visible at 3 months). This package represents $6500 worth of treatments for $5000. By comparison, a surgical procedure would not only NOT be able to build muscle tone, but would cost more and require post-operative down time.

about the expert

ANNA TOKER, MD, FACS, FASCRS

SKANDII MED SPA

Dr. Anna Toker is a native Texan with a penchant for Zydeco, being raised in Louisiana. Her experience as a top colorectal surgeon propelled her to expand patient offerings at Skandii Med Spa. As Medical Director, she offers supervised weight loss, body sculpting, and medical aesthetics. She is an avid tennis player, and supports various charities.

DO YOU OFFER FINANCING? We do offer financing through Care Credit. We accept cash, check, all major credit cards, and health savings account cards. We offer gift cards, which make the perfect gift for a recent graduate, new parent, or a bride or groom to be.

GET IN TOUCH >> SANDIIMEDSPA.COM // (682) 341-9039 september 2020

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

ask the EXPERT CHILDREN’S CAMP

CAMP CAN CHANGE YOUR CHILD—FROM THE INSIDE OUT

WHY IS AT TENDING CAMP SO GOOD FOR KIDS?

about the expert

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BLAKE “BUCK” BOWMAN

CAMP THURMAN

Blake has been at Camp Thurman since he was an eight-year-old camper. He’s served in every area of staff imaginable from counselor in training to summer counselor to night camp director. Blake holds a Public Relations and Marketing degree from Texas Tech University, was named executive director of Camp Thurman in the fall of 2013 and has served in that role ever since.

Camp gets your child away from technology and the familiar day to day routine. It allows them an opportunity to take some risks and step out of their comfort zone. The right camp will offer your child valuable life lessons in independence, teamwork, leadership, respect for nature, creativity, self-worth, communication, responsibility, resilience, fairness, trustworthiness, and compassion. Camp can challenge kids to think creatively, to learn how to make new friends, and teach them valuable lessons about who they are. HOW DOES THE CAMP HANDLE DISCIPLINE? We have rules and regulations set in place for our staff and campers to follow. Any time you have a group of children together, there’s the chance for conflict. So, on Mondays, each counselor shares with his or her group the guidelines necessary for everyone to be safe and have fun. We also have a camper code of conduct that we ask parents to review with their children prior to attending camp. WHAT’S THE CAMP THURMAN PHILOSOPHY? As a nonprofit ministry-minded camp, Camp Thurman’s mission is to share God’s love and help people pursue their identity in Christ. HOW DOE S T HE C A MP RECRUI T, S CREEN AND TR AIN IT S STAFF ? One of the greatest assets any camp can offer is an excellent staff. Camp Thurman prides itself in attracting and hiring top-level young adults to be a part of our summer staff. All staff complete a written interview process and must provide several

personal references. New applicants are interviewed by camp leadership, and each year approximately 350+ high-school and college-age applicants are selected. All staff must pass a thorough background check, complete a state-approved child abuse protection training course, and attend mandatory site-specific training for safety protocols, activity procedures, camp culture, and Bible training prior to beginning work with campers. WHAT’S THE R ATIO OF COUNSELORS TO CAMPERS? Camper groups consist of 12-13 campers, one counselor, and one assistant counselor or counselor-in-training (CIT). In addition, each activity area is staffed with additional staff members, which brings our overall staff to camper ratio to about 1:4. WHAT KIND OF BACKGROUND CHECKS ARE PERFORMED BEFORE STAFF IS HIRED? Each year prior to the start of the camp season, a thorough background check is performed on all summer staff. In additional to a criminal background check, the process includes a check of the National Sex Offender database. HOW WILL THIS CAMP MAKE YOUR SON OR DAUGHTER A BETTER PERSON? Our mission at Camp Thurman is to share God’s love and help people pursue their identity in Christ. We know how to have fun, be safe, and love others well. It’s our prayerful desire that your campers will leave their week at CT knowing they’re uniquely and perfectly created by God and deeply loved by Him. Through outdoor, adventure-based programming, we aim to nurture and grow all campers spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially during their time at CT.

CAMPTHURMAN.ORG // (817) 274-8441 << GET IN TOUCH

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

ask the EXPERT

MASSAGE

RELIEF FOR YOUR BODY AND SOUL

ARE GETTING MASSAGE AND SKINCARE SERVICES EVEN SAFE RIGHT NOW? We know you’re feeling the effects of stress now more than ever. That makes it even more important to make sure you feel safe and comfortable, once you’re back at a Massage Envy. We have engaged outside experts – leaders in their field – to review our brand standards targeted at sanitation and infection prevention and control. In addition to regular disinfection throughout our locations, we’re requiring all of our employees and clients to wear face coverings and complete daily health assessments including temperature checks. Each treatment room is given a thorough cleaning between appointments and we encourage clients to wait outside or in their vehicles until we’re ready for them. We comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, and want every member and guest to feel confident that we’re taking important and tangible measures to promote safety. DO YOU OFFER MEMBERSHIPS? HOW DOES THAT WORK? A routine of regular massage therapy can have real, long-lasting health benefits, including: • Help relieve pain by relaxing tense muscles • Help boost your body’s defense system • Help reduce stress levels • Help you feel more energized To help make regular massage and skincare affordable for everyone, we offer a wellness program that provides a 40% reduction in our non-member pricing. The monthly cost includes a one-hour

massage or skincare session, and additional sessions cost even less. When you go with a membership, you get a lot for your money, and the effects can last well after your treatment. Plus, your membership is good at any of our 1,500+ clinics nationwide. WHAT ARE THE T YPES OF MAS SAGE YOU OFFER? Our licensed massage therapists provide massage modalities that are manual manipulations of soft tissues of the body by movements such as rubbing, kneading, pressing, rolling, compression, point work, and manual vibration. These services are designed for therapeutic purposes that include promoting circulation, relaxing muscles, relieving pain, and restoring metabolic balance, among other benefits. Our most popular massage types include deep tissue, Swedish, prenatal, craniosacral, trigger point, oncology, myofascial release, hot stone, sports, and reflexology. WHY CHOOSE MASSAGE ENVY? People know us for massage, but our focus is about wellness and helping clients live better and healthier lives. With highly trained therapists and estheticians, and a large offering of high-end products, our clients receive convenient one-stop shopping for all their body and skin care needs. In fact, nationwide, we are the number one provider of massage, stretch, and skin care services in the U.S. and we continue to innovate with new service offerings. Our clients can choose from massage to stretch to therapeutic facials, and to more advanced skincare like chemical peels, microderm infusion treatments, and waxing.

about the expert

WENDY DANNER

MASSAGE ENVY

Twelve years ago, Texas Native Wendy Danner transitioned from a law career to a franchise owner with Massage Envy. She now co-owns three Massage Envy locations in DFW together with her husband, mom, and sister. Founder of the annual Run for Warriors 5K , Wendy is passionate about helping veterans and fervently advocates for the positive impact of massage and skincare on the body and mind.

GET IN TOUCH >> MASSAGEENVY.COM // (817) 453-ENVY (3689) // (817) 303-ENVY (3689) // (817) 402-3232 september 2020

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

ask the EXPERT FITNESS

NOW MORE THAN EVER—YOGA IS FOR EVERYONE

WHY SHOULD I PRACTICE YOGA?

about the expert

LYNN ROZAK, E-RYT 500, YACEP

SUNSHINE YOGA SHACK

Founder of Sunshine School of Yoga and Owner of Sunshine Yoga Shack, Lynn has been practicing yoga since 2001 and teaching yoga since 2012. She’s a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education provider certified in yoga for trauma and recovery, an aerial yoga specialist, seniors and prenatal yoga specialist, as well as a Thai Body Work and Reiki practitioner.

Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years to develop a stronger body— and a stronger mind. The word “yoga” translates into a “yoking or union of the mind and the body”. Yoga can be used as a workout. But I like to call it a “work in”. The benefits of yoga are many: strength, flexibility, endurance, stamina, mental focus, improved sleep, increased immunity, improved circulation, improved lung capacity, stress and anxiety relief, lower blood pressure, balanced blood sugar and hormones, pain relief, weight control, and improved body image. The list goes on. I’M NOT FLEXIBLE. CAN I PRACTICE YOGA? When your body is tight, it’s more prone to injury, pain, and stress. Yoga slowly releases the tight, stiff, sometimes achy muscles while creating strength and flexibility. There’s a reason most professional sports teams advocate yoga—not only for injury prevention but to help develop fine motor skills and agility. Start where you are and watch your body change. Practicing yoga several days a week will quickly show results. You’ll sleep better, feel stronger, feel less stress and tightness, and enjoy an overall sense of wellbeing. I H AV E NE V ER DONE YOGA OR A ERI A L . WHERE SHOULD I START ? At Sunshine, all classes are for all levels. We pride ourselves in breaking down yoga and aerial yoga so it’s easy for everyone to understand. We encourage you to move at your own pace and not do anything that might hurt. All bodies are different. We must honor that. Our studio is a place

where all body types, all backgrounds, all fitness levels, and all ages can come together to practice safely. WHAT IS AERIAL YOGA? Have you ever seen Cirque De Solei? We have aerial silks hanging from the ceiling in a hammock style and we use it to do yoga and aerial tricks, much like the ones performed in Cirque. The first part of each aerial class is yoga on the fabric. Then we learn something new off the ground. Yes, all aerial classes are for all levels. If you’re new you may not be able to do everything we do in class. But you’re learning new skills and muscle memory that will get you flying in no time. Each October we host an aerial showcase, a public performance for our aerial members to show what they’ve learned. Check our details on our webpage SunshineYogaShack. com/Showcase/. IS YOGA SAFE? People should be practicing yoga now more than ever. At Sunshine we have taken every precaution to make Sunshine Yoga Shack a safe place to practice yoga and aerial. Yoga has been proven to alleviate anxiety and depression in numerous research studies. We’re all experiencing higher than normal levels of stress and anxiety. Yoga can help you take time out for selfcare and bring an overall sense of wellbeing into your life. Sunshine Yoga Shack is open in the studio for in-person classes and online for streaming and on-demand classes. Visit SunshineYogaShack.com to reserve your spot now.

SUNSHINEYOGASHACK.COM << GET IN TOUCH

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

ask the EXPERT ROOFING

PROTECTING THE PEOPLE AND THINGS THAT MATTER MOST

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS IN ROOF REPLACEMENTS? There are many types of roof replacements available. Have your contractor evaluate your existing roof system and see if upgrading to a higher-class roof is beneficial or if he recommends replacement roofing like you have now. In some cases, you can replace your roof with a class-four roofing system and receive a discount on your homeowner’s insurance. Consult your insurance agent, as well, and find out the full benefits and savings to make sure the investment makes sense. HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REPL ACE MY ROOF? Depending on the size of your home, it can take two to three days to replace your roof. But weather conditions can delay the process. I’ VE HEARD SOME ROOFING COMPANIES USE SUB-CONTRACTORS. IS THIS A GOOD IDEA? In todays world a lot of construction companies, whether it be roofing contractors or electric contractors, they use subcontractors. The best thing to do is to find out how long a company has been in business, there standings with BBB and if they have worked in same area for long period of time or move around a lot. We would recommend using a company that is local and that is involved in the communities where you live. HOW LONG SHOULD MY NEW ROOF LAST? Roofing materials come in several options, the most popular option on market today is a laminate shingle. Most come with limited lifetime warranties. A good shingle should last 15 to 20years, depending on weather conditions in your area.

ARE MOST ROOFING COMPANIES P R O P E R LY L I C E N S E D , B O N D E D , A N D INSURED? Unfortunately, the state of Texas doesn’t require roofing contractors to be licensed. We recommend people obtaining a bank reference, supplier reference, proof of insurance, and several homeowner referrals before letting someone perform any type of work on your home. If the contractor isn’t willing to give you these things, you should look elsewhere. SHOULD MY OLD ROOF BE REMOVED? Yes, you should always remove old roofing material before replacing with new roof. In most cases your roof will not be insurable if old roof is not removed. And the insurance company in most cases will pay for full removal and replacement HO W M U C H S H O U L D I E X PE C T T O PAY FOR A NEW ROOF? The cost of your new roof depends on several factors. The type of roof you have, the size of your home, the pitch of roof on your home. Most insurance companies use what is called exactimate. It is a web tool designed to give correct pricing as long as correct information is given. HOW DO I PICK A REPUTABLE ROOFING CONTRACTOR? Again, unfortunately the State of Texas does not require roofing contractors to be licensed. Therefore, we highly recommend asking for bank references, supplier references, proof of insurance and several homeowner referrals. Picking up the phone and actually calling on the references provided to validate them can and will save you a lot of heartache at end of day. With social media etc. there are many ways to make anyone look reputable. A few simple phone calls will give you a peace of mind.

about the expert

WILLIAM RHODES

WR ROOFING

Since 1989, the mission of WR ROOFING has been to provide the utmost care and devotion to customer service and quality products—and to improve the communities they serve. WR Roofing uses only the best materials. Their tenured and trained staff partners with customers to protect their property and assets. After 30 years in business, most of their work comes through enthusiastic referrals from satisfied customers.

GET IN TOUCH >> WRROOFING.COM // (817) 473-5066 september 2020

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

ask the EXPERT

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

RAISING UP FUTURE LEADERS

SHOULD I CONSIDER AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR MY CHILD?

about the expert

AMY WILSON

THE OAKRIDGE SCHOOL

The parent of a current Oakridge Owl and a Class of 2020 graduate—and an alumna herself—Amy’s ties run deep at The Oakridge School. As the Director of Admissions, she’s often the first point of contact for prospective families. She holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southern Methodist University.

Not all independent schools are created equal. Independent schools are steered by a board of trustees and largely supported by tuition payments, charitable contributions, and endowment revenue. Teachers have the freedom to design educational experiences that meet each child’s needs, without state mandates on curriculum, textbooks, and testing. HOW DOES THE EDUCATION A L EXPERIENCE DIFFER FROM PUBLIC AND PRI VAT E S CHOOL S ? Independent schools foster intellectual curiosity, inspire personal growth, encourage critical thinking, and promote a lifelong love of learning. Over the past five years, 100-percent of graduates from The Oakridge School have been admitted to four-year colleges and universities across the U.S. and abroad. The Class of 2020 included 76 students accepted by 159 institutions of higher education, receiving nearly $12 million in meritbased scholarship awards. At Oakridge, we aim to inspire each student to be the best version of themselves and discover the gifts and talents they possess, for the best chance of living a fulfi lling life of service, leadership, and joy. I’VE NEVER CONSIDERED AN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL . WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR? While the environment is key, learning begins with solid teaching. Independent school instructors usually teach in their areas of expertise. They strive to cultivate a deep understanding of each student’s learning style, interests, and motivation. Our outstanding faculty members carefully craft a rich and varied curriculum directed at helping students acquire knowledge and develop critical thinking

and problem-solving skills. Most of our teachers hold advanced degrees, including seven with doctorates. Our studentteacher ratio is 10:1 allowing for close connections between instructors and students. AC A DEMIC S A RE IMPOR TA N T, BU T HOW DO INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS NURTURE THE WHOLE CHILD? In addition to academics, independent schools also nurture students’ personal and social growth and civic conscience. Outside the classroom, Oakridge students participate in school-sponsored athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, and leadership experiences. At the varsity level, students compete in 15 sports (baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, field hockey, football, golf, power lifting, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track, volleyball, and wrestling). Oakridge’s fine arts program (choir, orchestra, theater, ceramics, sculpture, studio arts, film and videography, graphic design, and photography) is a comprehensive, sequentially developed education that inspires artistic risk-taking while developing a lifelong appreciation of the arts. ARE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INCLUSIVE? Independent schools foster diverse and vibrant student communities that welcome and respect every family. According to the National Association of Independent Schools, students of color made up 33.3 percent of independent school enrollment, while 3.4 percent of students were from other countries (2019-20). Last year, our student body at The Oakridge School represented more than a dozen countries and more than 30 cities. We don’t discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, physical disabilities, or national and ethnic origin.

THEOAKRIDGESCHOOL.ORG // (817) 451-4994 << GET IN TOUCH

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| september 2020

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Tuyet Vu, RT (R)(M), Whitney Mendez BSRS, RT (R)(M), Magda Rizer (DO), Amelia Booe, RT(R)(M), Michelle Robles, BSN, RN

BREAST HEALTH AND WOMEN’S SERVICES CENTERED ON YOU Magda Rizer, DO fellowship-trained breast radiologist and medical director of the Breast Center at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center.

Where mammography is available, should ultrasound be considered a supplemental test? Ultrasound imaging can be a useful supplemental exam in the appropriate setting. At the Breast Center at Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, the fellowship-trained breast radiologist, Magda Rizer, DO, who also serves as medical director, determines if ultrasound is needed to assess suspicious findings on a mammogram. The Breast Center provides comprehensive services all in one location for the patient’s comfort and convenience.

Do mammograms increase the risk of breast cancer? Mammograms require very small doses of radiation. According to the National Cancer Institute, the risk of harm from this amount of radiation exposure is low, and the benefits of cancer detection with a mammogram significantly outweigh the risk.

What is the most current mammogram technology? The Breast Center uses 3D mammography in conjunction with

LIVINGMAGAZINE.NET

| september 2020

computer-aided detection, which is the latest and most accurate technology. To help make the mammogram more comfortable, the Breast Center offers SmartCurve™ Breast Stabilization paddles, which are shaped like women’s breasts to distribute pressure more evenly, while aromatherapy and a tranquil environment help decrease stress and anxiety. Results for diagnostic mammograms are available after the exam so patients don’t have to wait, and the dedicated nurse navigator offers support during every stage of a patient’s journey. To schedule a mammogram, go to MansfieldMammo.com or call 214-933-7200.

What are the limitations of mammography and why is it important for women to know about them? No screening test is perfect, and mammography is no exception. Factors like age or breast density can influence the look of breast tissue on a mammogram, making cancers more or less difficult to identify. In general, screening mammograms are less effective in younger women because they tend to have denser breast tissue. Approximately 5 percent of all breast cancers are not detectable by mammogram. Therefore, it is extremely important to make your doctor and your breast radiologist aware of any changes you notice in your breasts or symptoms you may be having so they can do a more targeted assessment.

What is a stereotactic biopsy? New developments in technology in recent years have made this procedure more comfortable. Taking a biopsy is very similar to how a screening mammogram is performed. The patient sits in a chair, pictures are taken, and the area in question is numbed with numbing medicine and targeted. A small needle is then used to obtain rice-sized samples of breast tissue.

What should I know about bone density testing? Bone density testing is very important, particularly for postmenopausal women and patients with a history of spontaneous fracture. At the Breast Center, this quick exam assesses the strength of your bones and your personal risk of bone fracture.

What can you tell me about pelvic floor dysfunction? If you are one of the millions of women who suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction, specialty trained physical therapists at the Breast Center can help with individualized treatment programs to improve your quality of life. Treatment includes a hands-on approach to address spinal and pelvic joint dysfunction. Therapists provide one-on-one guidance with external and internal soft tissue release, biofeedback, or electrical stimulation to address muscle weakness and imbalance. Specialty trained physical therapists with specialized training in women’s health have extensive knowledge about issues directly related to women as they move through different stages of life, from childbearing years to the postmenopausal period. Rehabilitation is provided in a one-on-one setting, and individualized treatment programs are developed in a discreet and comfortable environment.

Here’s what some of our patients have shared: I really appreciated how personable the therapist was; it made me feel more relaxed as a first-time mom dealing with postpartum bladder issues. My therapist was great! She explained everything in easy-to-understand language and made me feel very comfortable. She helped me so much to understand what I need to do [in order] to do this on my own. I will miss her!

Don’t suffer in silence; schedule your pelvic therapy appointment at 682-242-3299.

MethodistHealthSystem.org 214-933-7200

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals.

september 2020

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FASHION

Stylish Staple Boots and Texas go hand in hand, and owning a pair is a time-honored tradition in the Lone Star State. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your first rodeo with the country classic or expanding your collection, the varieties available of this versatile footwear make it hard not to find a perfect fit.

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| september 2020

Bed Stu

Cinthya Whipstitched Leather Western Booties $265

Corral Boots

Inlay and Embroidery Boots $278

PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME, PLEASE VISIT DILLARDS.COM FOR CURRENT PRICING INFORMATION.

september 2020

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FASHION

Free People

Elle Slouchy Snake Print Leather Block Heel Boots $198

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from Tulane’s College of Medicine. After additional medical studies in France and Germany and service in the Army’s Surgeon General’s Office in World War II, DeBakey came to Houston in 1948 to head the department of surgery at Baylor University Medical School. The college was small and struggling at the time, but DeBakey took to the school and Texas with a fervor, revamping the curriculum and recruiting highly qualified faculty and staff. He also quickly became a devotee of custommade western boots and wore them even while performing surgery. A medical whirlwind Over the next 60 years, his frantic schedule earned him the nickname “The Texas Tornado.” He rarely slept more than three hours a night, practiced surgery until he was almost 90, performed 60,000 operations, and trained thousands of surgeons.

IN THE HEART

of Texas

TRANSPLANTED PHYSICIAN HELPED MAKE THE STATE THE CENTER OF CARDIOVASCULAR CARE IN THE LATE 20TH CENTURY BY DAVID BU ICE

During his long career, his many accomplishments defy easy summation, but among them: • In 1952, he and then protégé Denton Cooley became the first Americans to repair an abdominal aortic aneurism, grafting tissue from a cadaver to repair the damaged vessel. • Using sewing and knitting skills learned from his mother and his wife’s sewing machine, he began fabricating artificial surgical grafts from DuPont’s new Dacron material and then helped design a knitting machine to mass produce these grafts. • He performed the first successful coronary bypass operation in 1964.

rom the 1950s and on, Texas physicians and scientists made numerous contributions to the field of cardiovascular care, helping transform what had once been experimental procedures into accepted therapies for those with end-stage cardiac disease. One of the names most often associated with these life-saving advances is Dr. Michael DeBakey.

Louisianan to Texan DeBakey’s story begins in Lake Charles, LA, where he was born in 1908, the son of immigrant Lebanese Christians. In his youth, he took an interest in medicine, talking with the physicians who came by his father’s drug store. He swept through undergraduate studies at Tulane University in only two years and went on to earn his medical degree

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• In 1967, he and his surgical team were the first to transplant four organs – a heart, two kidneys, and a lung – from one donor into four separate patients. Because of these and countless other accomplishments, he was responsible for making Houston a major center for heart surgery and transforming Baylor into one of the nation’s great medical education and research institutions. After DeBakey’s death in 2008, Dr. Kenneth L. Mattox, one of the surgeons he trained, provided a fitting epitaph. “This tall Texan,” he wrote, “continues to cast a long shadow and has left large boot prints for us to follow for many decades to come.”

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S TAT E O F

the state W H E R E T E X A S S TA N D S O N H E A LT H A N D CHRONIC DISEASE BY A N N E T T E BROOKS

exas welcomes nearly 1,000 new residents a day because the state has so many positive things to offer. Unfortunately, low obesity and diabetes rates aren’t on the list, although Texas is trending slightly better than the nation as a whole on heart disease and smoking rates.

Since diabetes and other comorbidities are linked to obesity, lowering Texas’ obesity rate is key to improving the health of its residents. The 16th annual State of Obesity report by the Trust for America’s Health found 34.8 percent of Texans were obese. Weighing in with these numbers, Texas is ranked as having the 10th highest obesity rate in the U.S. This puts Texans at an increased risk of developing serious, often life-threatening health conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, some cancers, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and more. Although some studies indicate Texas may be trending slightly downward in its obesity rate, the Lone Star State isn’t ready to take a victory lap just yet. The state of the state on diabetes is equally alarming, with the American Diabetes Association declaring the disease an epidemic in Texas. Approximately 14.2

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percent of the population have diabetes, and a whopping 37.2 percent have pre-diabetes. Considering nearly 70 percent of the adult population is obese or overweight, there is a likely correlation. Ready for some positive news? Texas is doing better with heart disease. The 2019 United Health Federation (UHF) report looking at the percentage of adults who reported being told by a health professional that they have angina or coronary heart disease, indicates Texas at 3.8 percent. The national average is 4.2 percent. The main risk factors for developing chronic heart disease (CHD) include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. The first two are obesity comorbidities. Per the report, almost one-third of CHD deaths are attributable to smoking and secondhand smoke exposure. According to Truth Initiative: Inspiring Tobacco-Free Lives, 15.7 percent of adults in Texas smoke. Nationally, the rate is 17.1 percent. Is it possible that Texas’ lower smoking rate could be tied to its lower CHD rate? Perhaps. So, what does the future hold for better health in the Lone Star State? Texans are known for their ability to tackle most any problem if they put their minds to it. In many cases, minimizing or eliminating chronic disease involves getting more physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthful diet, smoking cessation, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress. If you suffer from obesity, diabetes, chronic heart disease, high cholesterol, and/or other chronic health conditions, talk with your physician about options and a plan to improve your health. Also make use of resources chock-full of helpful information and tips, such as the Texas Health and Human Services Obesity Prevention Program at DSHS.Texas.gov/obesity/.

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aesthetics

THE SKINNY on sculpting THE LOWDOWN ON PROCEDURES WITH FAT-FIGHTING TECHNOLOGY BY C H R I S TI BL E VIN S

ody contouring, also known as body sculpting, is ideal for people with problem areas that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go away with diet and exercise. If you would like to smooth

cellulite, tighten skin, or kiss your love handles good-bye, there are several minimally invasive body contouring procedures that might be right for you. It should be noted that non-surgical body contouring is not a shortcut for easy weight loss and is most effective on people who are at or near their ideal body weight.

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| september 2020

aesthetics | THE SKINNY ON SCULPTING

Most of these procedures work by damaging fat cells, which will eventually be excreted by the lymphatic system. With each of the following procedures, there is minimal to no downtime. CoolSculpting CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat reduction technique, which uses cold temperatures to destroy fat cells in targeted areas. It is the only FDA approved method to freeze away fat. Fat cells are blasted while the surrounding tissues are unharmed. Target areas may include thighs, arms, double chin, abdomen, bra and back fat, buttocks, and flank area (love handles). One treatment takes an average of 30 to 60 minutes. Multiple treatments are usually required to achieve the desired results. Results are visible within three weeks, with full results in two to four months. SculpSure If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to freeze away your stubborn fat deposits, perhaps you would rather melt them into oblivion. SculpSure is designed to reduce fat in the abdomen, flanks, thighs, back, and under the chin using heat instead of cold. A high-intensity laser light heats adipose tissue to 107.6 to 116.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The damaged cells will be excreted over the next few weeks. Typically, two 25-minute SculpSure sessions are needed to see results. Optimal results are usually seen twelve weeks after treatment. Vanquish Vanquish is the new kid on the fat-blasting block. It works by radiating radio energy frequency on the fat cells of the abdomen, flanks, and thighs. The electromagnetic waves permeate the fat layer while leaving the skin unharmed. Though the core fat reaches a temperature of 120 degrees, the skin is only heated to approximately 100 degrees. The sensation has been compared to being wrapped in a heating pad or an electric blanket. For best results, you should expect to have three to five treatments spaced one week apart. Renuvion Unlike the procedures mentioned above, Renuvion is designed to firm and contour. It is effective on arms, abdomen, flanks, chest, thighs, and the back. Renuvion is also used as an alternative to invasive facelifts. While still considered minimally invasive, tiny incisions are placed on the affected areas, and tissues are treated with cold plasma energy. Recovery time is typically a few days.

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BOTOX Cosmetic Though there are other neuromodulator brands, BOTOX Cosmetic is the most well-known. Providers administer the product via several tiny injections, which temporarily blocks nerve impulses from the muscles creating lines and wrinkles. BENEFIT: A smooth, younger appearance that can last anywhere from three to six months. Juvederm and Restylane These represent the most widely used dermal fillers on the market today. Both use hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found throughout the body. Both brands come in a number of formulations, each created to address specific expression lines and problems with skin laxity, though, there is some crossover as well. Your provider can guide you depending on what areas you wish to address, such as: correcting lost cheek volume, improving lip definition and fullness, diminishing appearance of marionette and naso-labial lines, and the reduction of pronounced facial folds. BENEFIT: Elevated self confidence that can last anywhere from six months to a year (depending on the individual). Belotero

T U R N B A C K time THE BENEFITS OF INJECTABLE WRINKLE REDUCERS AND DERMAL FILLERS BY S AM AN THA GLU CK

The Belotero line of cosmetic dermal fillers is fairly new on the market — since 2011. It’s primarily used to correct the appearance of aging on the cheeks, nose, chin, lips, and around the eyes. Like the other fillers using hyaluronic acid, patients can see immediate results with minimal recovery time. BENEFIT: Affordability. According to a 2016 survey, a treatment can cost an average of $620, depending on the Belotero product used, amount needed, and geographical location. Additionally, treatments can last 12 to 18 months. Monalisa

ging isn’t the only thing that causes wrinkles and sagging skin. The environment can age your skin’s appearance, as well. What if you had access to an array of safe, effective treatments for correcting visible signs of aging? Well, you do! Injectables and dermal fillers can temporarily treat, or even prevent, those new lines that seem to pop up on your face daily.

The best injectable skin treatments perform well in the areas of durability, safety, versatility, quality, innovation, and delivering natural-looking results. Some of the most popular treatments include:

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Monalisa products use uniform-sized hyaluronic acid particles, which can result in, long-lasting volume maintenance. Some formulations include lidocaine to reduce pain at the injection site. Like other brands, results can last from six to twelve months. BENEFIT: According to the manufacturer, Monalisa is the most affordable dermal filler available, which allows patients to maintain prolonged wrinkle reduction at a lower cost compared to other brands. The bottom line is dermal fillers and wrinkle-reduction injectables are viable options that could help reverse and slow the signs of aging. Ask your provider about what options are best for you.

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RUSTIC

Re f i n ed NATURE MERGES WITH MODERN TO CREATE A FRESH TAKE ON TRADITIONAL TEXAS DESIGN BY H E AT H E R WI T HE RS POON

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ABOUT THE DESIGNER: The philosophy of Charbonneau Interiors is to design homes that incorporate function, beauty, and their client’s essence to create spaces that truly speak to who they are and elevate every aspect of their client’s life. Located in Houston, the full-service interior design firm specializes in custom design, renovation and new construction design, custom textile services, and offers an online home décor shop, Charbonneau Studio.

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homestead | RUSTIC REFINED

RAN C H INS P IRE D RENOVAT IO N, IN THE WO O D LA ND S I NTE R I O R DES IG N

CHA RB O NNEAU INT ER I O R S BU I L D E R

BILL HUGHES P H OTO S

MIRO D V O R S CAK C O U R T ESY

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(PREVIOUS PAGE) BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN // Framed by custom drapes, the floor to ceiling windows feature the stunning view of the homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyard retreat. Design elements like the branch-based coffee table, nature-themed art, and Austin stone wall work effortlessly to bring the outdoors into this grand yet cozy space. (PHOTO ABOVE) FIRESIDE CHATS // Perfect for family gatherings, this living room is grounded by the custom-made floors that are finished on-site and filled with natural fabrics, a stone wall fireplace, and wood accents creating a warm and inviting environment.

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homestead | RUSTIC REFINED

TEXAS TWIST // A modern ceiling fan and sleek lamps paired with formal furnishings take Texas traditional to another level. FARMHOUSE CHIC // Hand-crafted beams and rustic lighting set against the sleek countertops, custom cabinets, and refined finishing touches elevate this kitchen to farmhouse fabulous.

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homestead | RUSTIC REFINED

CASUAL DINING // The farmhouse table for eight flanked by comfortable seating and rustic refined dÃ©cor sets the mood for entertaining with ease.

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homestead | RUSTIC REFINED

RELAXING REIMAGINED // Renovated with function in mind, this bathroom featuring a gorgeous free-standing tub, is now the perfect place for the homeowners to unwind.

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FRAME A variety of materials are available for window frames, each with pros and cons. Vinyl PROS: Budget-friendly, and when installed with insulated glass and tight construction, they are very energy efficient. CONS: Limited color choices, and many people don’t like the look of vinyl on their home. Wood PROS: Best insulative value, and when well-built, will stand the test of time. CONS: Require more upkeep than the others, because of the potential for rot, not the best choice for extremely humid or rainy climates. Aluminum

FULL

transparency ARE YOUR WINDOWS HELPING OR HURTING THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR HOME? BY C H E RY L A L E XAN DE R

electing windows because they are stylish is only one element a homeowner should consider. Today’s energy-savvy consumer is also looking to minimize the costs of heating and cooling their homes. The key is knowing what window upgrades will give you the biggest bang for your buck without busting your budget.

There are four factors to consider when choosing energy-efficient windows: frame, glass, design, and installation.

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| september 2020

PROS: Practical in rainy, humid climates, and they meet stringent coastal building codes in hurricaneprone areas. CONS: It is not a top-performing material in terms of heat transfer and loss. Wood-Clad PROS: Low-maintenance exterior (usually vinyl or aluminum) encasing a temperature-transfer-resistant wood interior. CONS: Not great for wetter climates as they are prone to water intrusion, which can cause rotting in the sills and jambs.

GLASS Most homeowners prefer doublepaned windows with Low-E glass that include a vacuum-sealed argon fill. It is usually an extra 40 dollars or so per window. They make a big difference in utility bills by protecting the inside of the house from the sun’s heat and UV rays in

summer and preventing heat from escaping during winter. Experts report that doing anything more, like using triple-paned glass or denser gases with higher insulative properties, will simply increase cost and diminish returns in efficiency. Windows in the voluntary Energy S t a r p r o g r a m h a ve a s t i c ke r with ratings from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). To qualify, manufacturers must meet U-value standards, which measures a window unit’s resistance to heat loss and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, which measures how much heat enters a home through the glass. For both, the lower the number, the better.

DESIGN The design of some windows makes them inherently more efficient than others. Double-hung windows The bottom slides up to open the unit. In extreme climates, they aren’t the best due to air intrusion potential between the sliders. Casement windows A crank swings the window outward to open. When the wind blows in toward the house, they seal even tighter. Regular maintenance on hinges and seals keep them stable and efficient. Picture windows These usually don’t open and come in different shapes and sizes. Glass choice and gas-filled interiors keep them energy efficient.

INSTALLATION Be diligent about how your windows a r e i n s t a l l e d . E ve n t h e m o s t expensive option won’t perform efficiently if it’s improperly installed. Pre-installation waterproofing, completed before windows are installed, is the best option.

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LAMMES ORIGINAL STORE 1800

LAMMES, TX CHEWIE PECAN PRALINES

A Sweet Legacy Lammes Candies, satisfying a sweet tooth since 1885 BY ANNETTE BROOKS

Being a fifth-generation co-owner and running one of Texas’ living confectionery legends isn’t something Pam Tiech thinks about. It’s simply second nature. Having grown up in “the plant,” she dropped out of college to join the family business at age 19, starting at the bottom. “It was never a ‘look at me the boss’s daughter waltzing in’ scenario,” Pam says. She began doing tedious jobs no one else wanted, such as counting and recording the inventory and typing headings on countless inventory cards with a manual typewriter. She also pitched in at the plant, whether it was picking nuts or sweeping the floor. “Dad led by example and instilled his work ethic in us. He believed you should never ask anyone to do something you aren’t willing to do yourself and lived by this.” Today, Pam’s positivity and roll-up-your-sleeves attitude shines on, as does her selfless nature. Instead of crowing about her many accomplishments, Pam says her responsibility is “humbling.” She prefers to

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| september 2020

talk about company pride and the Lammes Candies employees instead of herself. “Our people are the key to our success,” Pam says. “We’re more than a team here at Lammes, we’re family.” A culture of family and teamwork is something many business owners talk about today, but the Lamme family has been living this philosophy for well over a century. In fact, when asked what it’s like being the company matriarch these days, Pam turns the discussion to Mildred, who became a Lammes employee when she was 16 and retired at age 90. “Mildred embodied the Lammes spirit,” Pam shares. “She was honest, hard-working, and treated the business like her own.” Mildred was also notorious for avoiding waste. “We used paper clips when Mildred ran the mailroom years ago. The crew swept up thousands of paper clips off the floor at the end of the day and threw them out. When Mildred realized this, she made everyone pick up the paper clips with magnets and reuse them.” All in good company fun, Mildred

A TASTE OF A TEXAS LEGEND Founded by William Wirt Lamme in 1878 as the Red Front Candy Store. Owned and operated today by fifth generation Lamme family members, siblings Pam Tiech, Bryan Tiech, and Lana Schmidt. DAVID TURNER LAMME

DAVID LAMME TEICH

William Lamme tested, tasted, and perfected the Texas Chewie Pecan Praline for seven years before bringing it to market. The world-famous treat is buttery smooth and has a soft, creamy chew to it, versus the hard chew you might expect in a caramel. The Texas Chewie was sold only by special request until the mail order department was established in 1920. Today, Lammes produces more

AIRPORT FRONT

than 2,000 pounds of their famous Texas Chewie daily.

CLOSE CALL William W. Lamme was a candy man, as well as a gambling man. Seven years after he founded the Red Front Candy Store, he lost it in a poker game. Luckily, his son, David Turner Lamme, paid off the $800 debt and staked claim to the store. Ever since the Lamme family has been at the helm of the business with a steady hand. Their pride in offering delightful candies, consistent quality, and world-class customer service reflect unwavering values that have made Lammes Candies a true Texas icon for more than a century.

was given a pair of shoes with magnets attached to them as a gag gift. Rather than telling the story of how she ruined a whole batch of caramel when she was little by taking an innocent taste with her finger, Pam chooses to share another anecdote about Mildred. “When Mildred hosted the company Christmas party at the Lammes Candies retail store she managed, we noticed the sugar in the sugar bowl had a yellow tinge to it. She had saved the sugar at the bottom of the lemon drop boxes and reused it!” Pam says with a Texas-sized smile. With long-time pride, nostalgic tales, and paying homage to their employees, the company continues on. As before, each new generation of Texans as well as newcomers from around the country and the globe, are discovering and falling in love with Lammes Candies’ confections. Meanwhile, the Lamme family is doing what they have always done, making some of the best-darned candies right where it all began, deep in the heart of Texas.

Only Texas-grown pecans are used in Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines. Over the years, new confections — Longhorns, Choc’Adillos, Cashew Critters, Peanut Paws, and Habanero Pralines — have been created based on the Texas Chewie. Lammes Candies sells various items, including chocolates, mints, taffies, divinity, malted milk balls, and limited release treats such as chocolate-covered strawberries.

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F E AT U R E

MIXING WITH

McConaughey Texas icon stirs things up with Kentucky master distiller

I’ l l admit it . I have never been a bourbon drinker. The once a year mint julip or hot toddy in the winter, su re, but as my go BY HEATHER WITHERSPOON t o c o c k t a i l n ot s o much. When I think of bourbon, it usually conjures up images of men. Whether it’s cowboys knocking one back in the wild west, detectives in the corner of a dark bar, or legendary writers drinking it neat in a rocks glass, that has always been my impression of the drink. I started thinking, “Why do I think that?” “Why can’t bourbon be a woman’s drink too?” Enter Matthew McConaughey. He was just the right man to entice me to give it a

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| september 2020

TOAST OF THE TOWN BOURBON BIRD 1.5 Parts Longbranch .5 Part Campari 1 Part Pineapple Juice .5 Part Fresh lime juice .5 Part Simple syrup METHOD: Shake and strain GLASS: Rocks GARNISH: Pineapple leaf BOURBON LEGEND 1.5 Parts Longbranch .5 Part Grand Marnier .5 Part Simple syrup .75 Part Lemon juice METHOD: Shake and strain GLASS: Coupe GARNISH: Lemon Twist BRANCH WATER real college try. McConaughey and the Master Distiller of Wild Turkey, Eddie Russell, recently created Wild Turkey Longbranch. The 8- yearold Kentucky Straight Bourbon is made in small batches and refined with Texas Mesquite and American Oak charcoals. Word is Matthew likes it neat, but I decided to mix up some of the signature Longbranch recipes to ease my way onto bourbon street. Since it is summertime, I started with the Bourbon Bird. I ended up doubling the recipe to fit my glass and used freshsqueezed pineapple juice. The first sip was so refreshing. I could taste the bourbon, but it paired so nicely with the other ingredients I could easily

see myself sipping this poolside for many years to come. Second, on the menu was the Bourbon Legend. I love a coupe glass. The minute I hold it, I am transported back to a roaring party in the twenties. The cocktail more than lived up to all of my expectations. The smokey taste of the bourbon blended w ith the Grand Mar nier, lemon, and simple syrup was the perfect marriage of sweet and tart. I loved it so much that I had a second round, and it just might be my new favorite dr ink. W hat I lear ned f rom this experiment is, don’t let stereotypes or preconceived notions get in the way of exploring possibilities. Thank you, Mr. McConaughey, for making a bourbon believer out of me.

2 Parts Longbranch Juice of half a lime Top with soda water or sparkling mineral water* METHOD: Squeeze half lime into glass filled with ice. Leave lime in the glass. Add Longbranch and top with soda or sparkling mineral water. GLASS: Highball *If using sparkling mineral water, use the remaining bottle on the side to top off the drink until it’s gone. LONGBRANCH NEAT/ROCKS 2 Parts Longbranch METHOD: Serve neat over Ice (2x2 ice cube) GLASS: Rocks

GET JIGGY WITH IT One part is any equal part. Think of it as one measure of your jigger (or whatever you're measuring with). Essentially, one part will become your base measurement and you will adjust the other ingredients to maintain the ratio. For example, if you need 1 part, you would pour one full jigger. For .75 pour ¾ jigger, and .5 pour ½ jigger.

september 2020

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SAY CHEESE QUESO ISN’ T THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN BY MELISSA TATE

ost don’t think of cheese when they think of Texas. Queso, maybe. But cheese production, not so much. Throughout most of the nineteenth century, very little commercial processing of dairy products took place in Texas. The state imported almost all of its condensed milk and cheese from the northern dairy states. There were several creameries in North Texas in the 1950s, but most only produced butter and then, of course, Blue Bell Creameries in Brenham produced ice cream. By the 1970s less than one percent of the cheeses produced in the United States came from Texas. But times have changed. When in season, Scardello Artisan Cheese in Dallas will carry up to 9 different brands of Texas cheese in their store alone. One of the best sellers is the fresh chevre from Haute Goat. Haute Goat was established in 2011 in White Oak, TX. They have fresh goat’s milk delivered daily from two different local farms. Harvesting from three different breeds allows them to produce yearround without ever having to freeze the milk. Chèvre is an unaged, soft cheese with a creamy, sometimes

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| september 2020

even tangy taste. It pairs well with white wine or light beer and works great on a cheese board with pears, honey, and roasted red peppers. Along with Scardello, Haute Goat is available at Brookshires, Central Market, several farmers markets across Texas, and their online store. If you find yourself near Waco, you should absolutely stop by Brazos Valley Cheese and take a tour of their underground cheese cave. One of the only in the state, the underground cave, helps stabilize temperature and humidity. They offer a mixture of soft and hard artisan cheeses. All varieties are hormone and antibiotic-free. Brazos Valley believes the quality of their cheese depends on the health and care of the cattle herd. A herd located just 11 miles from the dairy and operated by 3rd generation farmers. Their award-winning white cheddar, blue cheese, brie, horseradish pecan cheddar, and many more are available in their storefront alongside a vast selection of other Texas products. White cheddar is known to pair well with Chardonnay and always a winner on boards accompanied by dried

apricots, whole grain Dijon mustard, and cured meat. The best charcuterie boards include three kinds of cheese that are fairly different from each other. A combination of textures, types of milk, and tastes are important. When rounding out a cheese board, mozzarella is always a good choice. Thankfully, Texas is home to one of the most popular mozzarella producers, Mozzarella Company in Dallas. For almost 40 years, Mozzarella Company has continued to make each and every cheese entirely by hand. The recipe is centuries old and uses only the freshest ingredients. Mozzarella is one of the easiest cheeses to pair, as you can never go wrong with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mozzarella Company products can be found at Kroger, Tom Thumb, Central Market, and their online store.

1. Brazos Valley Cheese (Feta) 2. Mozzarella Company Dallas (Smoked Scamorza) 3. Brazos Valley Cheese (Aged white cheddar) 4. Mozzarella Company Dallas (Soft Mozzarella.)

For your next get together, try curating an all Texan charcuterie board. Include some of your favorite jams, jellies, pickled products, and bread. Your guests will love to hear the stories from each product and know they are supporting fellow Texans.

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TEJA S TRIVIA A few fun facts about the Lone Star State BY M I M I GREEN WO O D KN I GH T

BIGGER I N TEX A S We all know Texas is BIG — bigger in fact than any country in Europe and more than twice the size of Germany. But in the U.S. the Lone Star State also boasts the LARGEST: • Inland port in Laredo • Ferris wheel at the State Fair of Texas • Rose garden at the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden • State capitol building in Austin • Cattle ranch — 825,000-acre King Ranch (bigger than the state of Rhode Island) • Helium well in Amarillo (with about 90% of the world’s recoverable supply) • Collection of circus memorabilia at the Hertzberg Circus Museum in San Antonio

MIXIN’ IT UP The first frozen margarita machine was invented in Dallas in 1971 by restaurateur Mariano Martinez , and happy hour was never the same. The original, adapted from a softserve ice cream machine, is housed in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

MOO -VER N EIGH BOR In Texas, it’s still illegal to milk someone else’s cow.

The name Texas comes from the Hasinai Indian word “TEJAS” meaning friends or allies.

HOT OFF THE SHELF First marketed in 1978, Jalapeno pepper jelly originated in Lake Jackson, Texas .

More species of bats live in Texas than in any other part of the U.S. The state also has the largest known bat colony in the world at Bracken Cave Preserve, near San Antonio.

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adventure

BUCKLE UP

for BBQ

T H R E E DAY S , F O U R ICONS, TEXAS SIZED B A R B E C U E C R AW L BY ANNET T E BRO O KS

t was 1995, right on the cusp of the Texas barbecue explosion across the country. I had recently moved to the Lone Star State, and Bon Appetite had just named Clark’s Outpost in Tioga, one of its restaurants of the month. That was all the encouragement I needed to drive into North Texas’ horse country to see what all the fuss was about. My first bite at Clark’s was a defining moment where my fascination with tender, smoke-kissed Texas barbecue began, and that experience inspired a three-day barbecue crawl through the state.

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adventure | BUCKLE UP FOR BBQ

NO RTH T E X A S

CLARK’S OUTPOST Pulling up to Clark’s in 1995, I thought, “Outpost is a good name for this place.” I had been living near The Big Apple, and Clark’s was the farthest thing from a hip SoHo restaurant as you could get. The interior was no different. Just inside the front door was a big metal box of iced down beer. I grabbed a Lonestar. My kind of place, after all! Unique, a little funky, no frills, and as down-home authentic as they come. And the barbecue? Let’s just say it set the standard for every barbecue meal I’ve eaten since. Although Clark’s burned down in 2016, all was not lost. It was renovated and reopened by a former employee who knew the original recipes. So, when I decided to hit the road on a mini barbecue crawl from North to South Texas, my journey kicked off in Tioga. The “new” Clark’s was about the same as I remembered, right down to the vibe, juicy smoked brisket, and fried okra. Leaving with my thirst quenched and a Texas-sized “Q fix,” I returned home at sunset, the wide-open sky brushed in red, orange, blue, and lavender hues. CE NTR A L T E X AS

SOUTHSIDE MARKET & BBQ Day two involved a road trip with a doubleheader. I headed to Elgin, Texas, around three hours south of Dallas. Elgin is the home of Southside Market & BBQ, which claims to be “the oldest joint in the state.” As the story goes, William Moon began selling meat door-to-door in his wagon in the late 1800s. With no refrigeration, he smoked what he didn’t sell to preserve it. In 1886, Moon opened his first store in Elgin. Over the years, Southside has changed owners, but the mouth-watering smoked meats have remained the same. Elgin has declared itself The Sausage Capital of Texas, so I started with a sausage slammer, akin to a jalapeño popper but covered with pan sausage, then wrapped in bacon. It was the bomb! The garden salad with smoked chicken appealed to my healthier side, but what kind of Q lover would forgo Southside’s original beef sausage for leafy greens? The juicy sausage was everything it was cracked up to be, as were the sides of slaw and beans. Luckily, my stretchy leggings obliged the indulgence.

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adventure | BUCKLE UP FOR BBQ

CENTR AL T E X AS

SMITTY’S MARKET Next up, Lockhart. Texas towns love to stake a claim to fame, Lockhart included. Boasting to be the Barbecue Capital of Texas, my take was that Lockhart has some mighty big boots to fill. With three long-standing joints in town — Kreuz Market, Smitty’s Market, and Black’s Barbecue — I only had enough appetite left for one. Smitty’s, located a block away from the historic, picturesque Caldwell County Courthouse, won my improvised pick a joint coin toss. Entering Smitty’s through an old-timey screen door, I knew it was going to be a time-warp experience. Patrons were sitting at long wooden tables in a room lit with fluorescent lights clinging to a tall ceiling, with glistening cuts of meat smoking in open fire brick pits, and served on sheets of brown butcher paper. I ordered slices of shoulder clod and “fat” brisket, skipping the sides. Shoulder clod — a volleyball-sized lean beef roast — was a Texas barbecue mainstay before the cut was upstaged by brisket. Honestly, I liked the juicy fat brisket with a perfect smoke ring best, perhaps because it’s most familiar.

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| september 2020

SO UT H T EXAS

PIZZITOLA’S BAR-B-CUE Day three brought me to Houston to a place with an odd name for a barbecue joint. I learned that although Pizzitola’s Bar-B-Cue currently has an Italian name, its roots are African American. The husband and wife team, John and Leila Davis, opened what was then Shepherd Drive BBQ in 1935. Jerry Pizzitola grew up loving the Davis’ smokey meats, so much so that he bought the restaurant when John Davis died in 1983. Since then, the restaurant has been passed to owners who keep the Davis’ methods, recipes, and tradition of excellence alive. Known for their succulent dry-rubbed spareribs, and having read a review that described them as “meat candy,” how could I resist? And for the record, meat candy is an apt description. For the finale of my three-day, four joint barbecue crawl, I celebrated with Mama Pizzitola’s From Scratch Banana Pudding. It couldn’t have been more perfect.

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cuisine

MIDWAY munchies S N AC K O N T H E S E S TAT E FA I R FAVO R I T E S AT H O M E BY M E L I S S A TATE

CORNY DOGS MAKES: 8 SERVINGS | TIME: 45 MINUTES TIPS AND TRICKS In the words of Skip Fletcher himself, “Corny dogs are simple, but they ain’t easy.” You really have to watch the temperature of the oil. Adjust as needed to keep the oil around 365° F as to not burn the batter and undercook the hot dog.

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INGREDIENTS: 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying | 1 cup yellow cornmeal (not stone-ground) | 1 cup flour | 1 tsp. salt | 4 tsp. baking soda | ¼ cup sugar | 2 eggs | 1 cup milk | 8 beef hot dogs | 8 popsicle sticks DIRECTIONS: HEAT vegetable oil in deep fryer or deep pot to 365° F. COMBINE cornmeal, flour, salt, baking soda, and sugar. ADD in eggs and milk and combine. INSERT popsicle sticks into hot dogs and leave enough stick to hold. When oil is ready, dip one hot dog at a time, completely covering in batter. PLACE battered dog in hot oil and fry for 4 to 5 minutes, rotating with tongs. REMOVE from oil and drain on a paper towel. SERVE immediately with favorite dipping sauce.

cuisine | MIDWAY MUNCHIES

TIPS AND TRICKS The mayonnaise mixture can be smeared on ears of roasted corn and then sprinkled with crushed Hot Cheetos for a handheld version of this treat.

HOT CHEETOS CORN IN A CUP MAKES: 4 SERVINGS | TIME: 20 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: 4 (15 oz.) cans of whole kernel corn | ½ cup mayonnaise | ¼ cup sour cream | ¼ cup parmesan cheese | ¼ tsp. Tajin seasoning or chili powder | 1 cup Hot Cheetos | ½ lime | Salt and pepper, to taste DIRECTIONS: WARM corn on stovetop for about 5 minutes over medium/ high heat. DRAIN corn and set aside. COMBINE mayonnaise, sour cream, parmesan cheese, seasoning, juice from the lime, salt, and pepper to taste. COMBINE corn and mayo mixture. Divide equally among 4 cups. CRUSH Hot Cheetos and sprinkle on top of corn.

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cuisine | MIDWAY MUNCHIES

TIPS AND TRICKS TOP OREOS WITH WHIPPED CREAM AND DRIZZLE WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE FOR AN EVEN MORE DECADENT DESSERT.

PHOTOS & FOOD BY

MELISSA TATE To follow her cooking adventures visit MelissaTateTX .com or find her on Instagram at

DEEP-FRIED OREOS

@MELISSATATETX

MAKES: 48 SERVINGS | TIME: 45 MINUTES INGREDIENTS: 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying | 1 egg | 1 cup milk | 2 tsp. vegetable oil | 2 cups pancake mix | 1 pkg Oreos | Powdered sugar DIRECTIONS: HEAT vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep pot to 375Â° F. COMBINE egg, milk, 2 tsp. vegetable oil, and pancake mix. ONCE OIL IS READY, dip Oreos into batter one at a time and then directly into oil. Fry 3 to 4 Oreos at a time for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. DRAIN on a paper towel. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve warm.

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our picks | LIVING LIKES

WET YOUR WHISTLE WITH WATERMELON

A SMATTERING

of stuff

THAT’S MAKING US SAY “WE LIKE IT!” THIS MONTH

Imbibe while you can because this refreshing drink by Austin East Ciders is a seasonal offering. If you miss out, you can’t go wrong with their other fruity flavors of pineapple and blood orange. $10 FOR A SIX-PACK, TOM THUMB, KROGER, H-E-B

BY HE ATHE R WI T H ERSPO O N

WE’VE GOT SPIRIT Get wrapped up in your college or state pride with one of Spirit Snob’s colorful scarves. Handmade by Fort Worth artist Allison Castillo, each design reflects the unique characteristics and traditions of their central theme. Several university styles, including Texas Tech, Baylor, TCU, and Texas A&M are offered as well as designs featuring sugar skulls, and multicolored motifs that represent the state of Texas. For those of us who need some inspiration on how to wear and tie a wrap, their website has a how-to video to help us out. $65, SPIRITSNOB.COM PRESIDENTIAL PAINTER

WET YOU R WHI STLE

The pages of the number one New York Times Best Seller, Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors by George W. Bush are filled with sixty-six full-color portraits and a four-panel mural painted by the former President. Accompanying each painting is an inspiring story penned by the President about the veteran depicted. A new book OUT OF MANY, ONE: Portraits of America’s Immigrants was announced on August 6th and will be released on March 2, 2021. Aligned with the George W. Bush Institute’s ongoing work on immigration policy, an exhibition on the value of immigrants to America featuring the President’s portraits will open to the public at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, on the same date. PORTRAITS OF COURAGE $32, OUT OF MANY ONE $38 (PRE-ORDER), BARNESANDNOBLE.COM

WE’ V E G OT S PI RI T

P R ESIDEN T IAL PAI NTE R

KEEP ON TRUCKING The bold graphic style of this adjustable Big Bend National Park Trucker Hat is the perfect way to display your love of the outdoors and Texas parks. $20, TYLERSTX.COM

TAKE A DIP

KE EP O N TRU C K I N G

TAK E A DI P

Queso Mama’s pre-packaged version of this Texas favorite is as good as any restaurant queso that has crossed my path. Customize it with a little chorizo, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream for an even more delectable treat. $8, COSTCO

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