SPRING 2020
In Providence Village
Spring Landscaping
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
MESSAGE FROM THE COUNTY COMMISIONER
THE PROVIDENCE VILLAGE EXPERIENCE PUBLISHER MAC Publishing & Media Group, LLC EDITORS Ami Yarbrough Chris�ne Walker CREATIVE DIRECTOR Chris�ne Walker chris�ne@macpublish.com SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR Ami Yarbrough ami@macpublish.com DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPEMENT Marco Herrera marco@macpublish.com LAYOUT & DESIGN Chris�ne Walker STAFF WRITERS Ami Yarbrough Chris�ne Walker Shannon Robinson INTERN Sina Tidwell
Providence Village has a special place in my heart. I worked closely with leaders in Providence Village to incorporate the town back in 2010. As County Commissioner, I have consistently opposed special taxing districts outside the boundaries of a municipality, and it has brought me great satisfaction to watch this community incorporate, thrive and grow over the years. While growth is already evident along U.S. 380 with businesses, homes and apartments under construction, projections call for a more significant impact in the next 25 years. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Denton County experienced a 23.5% population increase from 2010 to 2017. The projected population now through 2045 is expected to jump by 136%. Denton County’s population could be more than 3 million by 2050, according to the Texas Demographic Center. The growth is visible in the traffic volume experienced along U.S. 380. From 2011 to 2017, Denton experienced a 22% increase overall, with a 30% increase east of Loop 288. Cross Roads, Little Elm and Providence Village saw 25% more traffic, while Little Elm, Frisco and Prosper endured a 50% hike. In 2017, around 40,300 cars traveled along U.S. 380 every day. By 2045, the average traffic demand is forecast to be 112,500 vehicles daily on U.S. 380. TxDOT officials are working closely with city and county officials to widen the roadway to six lanes with a raised median and grade separations at FM 720, Legacy Drive, Teel Parkway and FM 423. Stay tuned for more updates on future planned improvements. Stay up to date with the transportation projects affecting Providence Village by scanning the QR Code and subscribe to the Precinct 1 Monthly Newsletter.
Thank you for your continued support, Hugh Coleman County Commisioner
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Kat Bryan Linda Bullwinkle Steve Coomes Dr. Kelly Kim Elizabeth Tiseo Hallie Crawford Lea Goin Brad Kiesling Jessica Milam Mike Mathis Rhonda Macedonio Leslie Thompson Rob Vaughan Woodlands Eyecare
FIND US ON: facebook.com/pvexperience providencevillageexperience.com
The Providence Village Experience, a subsidiary of MAC Publishing & Media Group, LLC, reserves all rights connected to all copyright and proprietary property contained in our official publication, website(s), social media accounts, videography, email marketing, branding, and printed materials. This includes, but is not limited to, authoritative and/or wri�en content, photographs, graphics and infographics, ad design, artwork including official company logos in design, color, and format, and video(s). Any use or the above aforementioned in whole or in part may not be used for any reason without the express wri�en consent of MAC Publishing & Media Group, LLC.
Copyright 2020 © The Providence Experience and MAC Publishing & Media Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Providence Village Experience - 3
CONTENT SPOTLIGHT
Home & Garden
14
FEATURE Love Stories
7
In Providence Village
24
BUSINESS PROFILE:
SAFE TECH PEST CONTROL
31
STORM SAFETY Stuck in Your Comfort Zone?
4 - Providence Village Experience
9
Are You Ready for Taxes?
10
Spring in Providence Village
15
Beware of Snakes in the Grass
17
Kid’s Activity Page
19
Mind, Body & Soul
28
Calendar
34
Personalized Service and Front Door Delivery! Spring will be arriving soon to North Texas. I hope the start of 2020 has been good to you and your loved ones. The immediate area is booming with housing construction, road improvements (some quicker than others!) and new shopping choices. One of the choices to be made by most people at some point is a pharmacy. There are many to choose from, so let’s break them down in a short discussion.
Basically, there are two broad categories of pharmacy for individuals, local retail pharmacies and mail-order facilities. Most consumers who end up in mail order are influenced by their insurance and enticed by more favorable copays. This is understandable from a purely financial standpoint. In reality, though, there are pitfalls such as medication waste and lack of communication with a pharmacist. And have you ever tried to get through to them on the phone? Now let’s consider local retail pharmacies for those who get to choose. There are subsets in this area; you have independent pharmacy, chain pharmacy, grocery store pharmacy and bigbox pharmacy. What do you consider when deciding where to go? Again, some insurers have mandates to use a certain store, and with today’s medication prices, it is almost universally necessary to go that route. Like most other decisions, such as eating out, choice is made by recommendations from family, friends and neighbors. Convenience is also a leading factor.
Steve Coomes, Owner & Pharmacist
Customer service is what drives independent pharmacy. We offer the same medications, same copays, fair pricing for the uninsured and quick service. Take into consideration the turnover rate of the staff. Is there always someone different waiting on you? Do you recognize the pharmacist? Do they know your name? Is the pharmacist available to discuss your medications? Independent pharmacies, such as Aubrey Pharmacy, also offer unique services, including Medication Synchronization (SyncRx), compliance packaging (Dispill), compounding, most immunizations (vaccines) and postage options. So, convenience doesn’t only mean “close-by,” but also total time spent getting the prescription(s), information about the medication and minimizing or eliminating frustration! Keep in mind that at Aubrey Pharmacy, we deliver prescriptions right to your door to Providence Village and the entire Aubrey area free of charge (with some limitations) in case you or a family member feels too bad to get out, or simply just don’t want to! We’ll also include any over-the-counter items you need with your complimentary prescription delivery. Delivery service is weekdays after 5pm year-round! We truly care about you at Aubrey Pharmacy and look forward to taking care of your healthcare needs!
“As close as your front door” Brought to you by:
Accepting most insurances, Medicaid and Medicare D.
FREE SAME DAY DELIVERY TO PROVIDENCE VILLAGE & THE 380 CORRIDOR
Providence Village Experience - 5
Learning a New Language Can Help Brain Development There are many benefits to learning a new language! Beyond career opportunities and financial incentives, language learning helps improve people’s thinking skills and memory abilities. Bilingual students concentrate better, ignoring distractions more effectively than those who speak only one language. Because the language centers in the brain are so flexible, learning a second language can develop new areas of your mind and strengthen your brain’s natural ability to focus. As a language learner, you’ll become a more conscious thinker and listener who can communicate clearly and think creatively. Studies have shown that infants raised with two languages from birth displayed improved cognitive control abilities compared to their monolingual counterparts. MRI scans have shown that the brains of people studying languages increased in size, while the brain sizes of others remained the same. Studies also suggest that bilingualism improves brain function, helping to stay focused, switching attention willfully from one thing to another and retaining information. Learning another language is one of the most effective and practical ways to increase intelligence, keep your mind sharp and buffer your brain against aging.
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6 - Providence Village Experience
BUSINESS PROFILE
JAMES SAWFORD
PICKED UP HIS FIRST PEST CONTROL
1999. A NEIGHBOR OF HIS OPENED A PEST CONTROL BUSINESS AND NEEDED HELP. WHILE WORKING IN THE CAR BUSINESS, JAMES BEGAN MOONLIGHTING AS A PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN AND QUICKLY MOVED UP TO SERVICE MANAGER. THIS PROMOTION OPENED THE DOOR OF THE BUSINESS. JAMES LEARNED ORDERING, ROUTING, SERVICING AND EVERYTHING NEEDED TO RUN A QUALITY SPRAYER IN
TO LEARNING ALL FACETS PEST CONTROL BUSINESS.
o
ver the years, the idea grew for James to open his own company. In 2014, the Sawfords opened Safe-Tech Pest Control. Building the business from the ground up took time. Family owned and operated, Fatima, James’ wife, is by his side to keep the business books in line. She guides his schedules and accounts for the business and keeps customer accounts in order. While James is the face of the company, providing the customer service, selling services, completing the appointments and eliminating pests along the way, Fatima keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. “We just fell into our place,” Fatima says about how they balance the business operations. James, Fatima and their kids moved to Providence Village in the summer of 2015. Safe-Tech Pest Control company emerged that fall as James’ full-time job. Officially leaving the car industry on the heels of the Volkswagen diesel scandal, James knew this pivotal
moment in the car industry was the beginning of his new full-time career. Safe-Tech Pest Control initially branched out to locations across Denton, Collin, Dallas and Tarrant counties. Today, he is still serving many of his customers around the area. However, the majority of his clients and business is right here in Providence Village. Taking pride in his work, James explains, “I live here; they are going to see my truck... when you are out and about your reputation is important.” Safe-Tech Pest Control is your locally owned and operated pest control company. Word of mouth and social media have been the driving force to gain new customers and earn the trust of the community. It is common to see a string of neighbors on a street use James’ services. Response time for existing customers when they have an issue is to arrive the next day, if not that same day to resolve it. “That is his personality; he likes to make sure everyone is satisfied with what he does,” says Fatima. It is essential to the Sawfords that their customer’s pest control is performed in a timely manner. “I try to take care of them right away because of all my referrals,” remarks James. It is a cornerstone of the business.
Plans to expand are on the horizon. The growth plan includes creating multiple jobs in the community to keep up with the growing business. Sawford never wants to lose sight of building relationships with customers. Friends, family and community are the driving force behind this local company. Work-life balance with their family is important, while still taking care of the town every day. When asked if he would ever return to the car industry, Fatima emphatically says, “Never.” The quality of life Safe-Tech gives the Sawford family allows them to provide Providence Village the quality of life by eliminating pests.
Providence Village Experience - 7
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8 - Providence Village Experience
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Providence Village Experience - 9
ARE YOU READY FOR TAXES? We are headed into the second year of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Taxpayers should know that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act generally reduced tax rates. But they should also note that the increased standard deduction and loss of personal exemptions, among other factors, will impact the calculations used to determine the tax bracket into which their income falls. We learned the first year that refunds will not be as large as hoped. The laws reduced the number of deductions affecting W-2 employees and unreimbursed expenses such as mileage, uniforms, tools and materials and anyone who used to itemize deductions and personal exemptions. Many options are available to reduce your tax liability for 2019, but there is limited time to take advantage of these. Pull your information together as soon as possible to find Linda Bullwinkle, MBA, EA out what your options are. Contributions can still be made to deductible IRA’s, a SEP IRA for self-employed business owners and individual taxpayers can contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA, or $7,000 if over 50 years of age. A SEP can benefit a business owner with a contribution, and deduction, of up to 25% of their net earnings, up to $56,000 in 2019. If you own a business, you have a list of deductions you can put together with receipts, bank statements and credit card receipts to identify your business expenses. Now is the time to put that information together while you still remember. Don’t wait until March or April or June, September or October. You will miss many items. On Friday, December 27, 2019, a new law was created, the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020. This act not only prevented a government shutdown, but also passed many tax provisions. Some of these include extenders of items that would have been no longer allowable as deductions; the repeal of three Affordable Care Act provisions; and changes to retirement plans such as a change for required minimum distributions to begin at 72 beginning in 2020, as well as removing the age limit for contributions to traditional IRAs. This is only some of what is included in the bill. As we digest the details and what is relevant to our clients, the details of these rules will be available on our website if you would like to read more. At Financial Fitness, we appreciate and encourage everyone to be knowledgeable and clear about their financials and income tax liabilities, as well as the options and decisions available to reduce those liabilities. We believe in a strategic approach to managing your taxes just like you would have a strategic approach to your investments, your financial decisions and your career. If you aren’t ready for tax season or would like to work with a tax preparer who will work hard for you, give us a call!
Happy Tax Season!! 10 - Providence Village Experience
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10,988 US Teenagers Will Get A Driver’s License Today! Fortunately for us, they are not all on Highway 380 at the same time. Question: When was the last time you reviewed your auto insurance? There are three basic coverages that you need to be concerned with – coverage for the other driver, coverage for you and your family and coverage for your car. What if you cause an accident? You could be held personally liable for the medical cost of everyone involved, as well as damage done to other cars. Liability coverage can help shield you from losing your home and savings in case of an accident. What if someone else causes an accident but has minimum or no insurance? You could be on the hook for medical expenses and for the damage to your car. Making sure you have uninsured/underinsured coverage to protect you and your family is just as important as having liability coverage. Finally, having a reliable working car is an important part of our daily lives. Comprehensive and collision coverages can minimize the financial impact and headache of an accident. Is your insurance/coverage keeping up with your changing family needs? Let us provide you a free, no obligation review of your policy today.
ARE YOU EARNING INCOME FROM YOUR HOME-BASED BUSINESS? Attention in-home daycare providers, salons, personal trainers, landscaper, lawn care providers and more… Are you covered in the event there is an accident on you property while conducting business? Don’t leave yourself at risk! Did you know that the standard homeowners policy does not provide protection for you as a business owner? Say you accidentally burn someone with a chemical peel or hair treatment, you nip someone’s ear while cutting their hair, a client gets injured while working out, a child slips, falls and has to go to the emergency room… you need protection. Otherwise, they can go after your house, car and anything else they want if you are not properly protected beyond a standard homeowners policy. At DGK Insurance, we specialize in programs designed specifically for your business needs. Let me help you find the solution that best fits your budget and risk. I have over 30 years of experience and live right here in Providence Village. Please contact me for a free consultation.
Providence Village Experience - 11
My job is to provide support to enhance the skills, resources, and creativity that you already have. I work with you to focus your vision, create a strategy and carry out how you really want to experience your business and life, in any or all of the following ways: • Create a plan to grow your business and make the revenue and income you want (most clients double or more their business in less than a year) • Turn staff into high performers who powerfully support you and your business – and do it happily • Determine your ideal work structure and schedule, including the hours you work and your time off Dete • Spend your time doing what energizes you, invigorates you and gets you results, instead of “what needs to be done” • Experience pride, satisfaction and ease while seeing more growth and rewards for you, your business and your family
Call : (972) 807-5277 or Scan : LaQuetta brings over 25 years of business and leadership experience, motivating individuals and teams to accomplish targeted goals, as well as implementing strategic initiatives and strategies in diverse environments. In addition, she eagerly contributes her talents toward collaborating with growth-oriented organizations, while building productive working relationships.
RAIN Business Coaching, LLC is certified as a:
12 - Providence Village Experience
Now Serving Dinner! Welcome to Starwood Café, home of all-day breakfast. You may know us for great breakfast options like omelets, crepes, waffles and pancakes, as well as healthy lunch options, but we’ve just added something new! Introducing our dinner menu… from chicken fried steak and chicken fried chicken to rib eyes, shrimp and catfish, we have lots of home-cooking options to delight your taste buds. We’re less than 10 minutes from Providence Village, making it superconvenient for the whole family! We are a family-friendly restaurant. At Starwood Café, you will be treated like a friend or family member. We specialize in customer service and satisfaction, and your dining experience is our #1 priority. The moment you step into our restaurant, you’ll instantly feel like you’ve never left home at all!
• Join us for Dinner Wednesday-Saturday, 3-8 pm
• Breakfast Served Seven Days a Week 7-3 pm • Kid’s menu • Homemade Cooking • Catering for Small & Large Groups
A SMILE MAKEOVER Can you believe Year 2020 is already here? Time surely flies! It’s a great time of the year to think about your new smile! Let me talk about a smile makeover – a part of cosmetic dentistry. Navo Family Dental proudly offers cosmetic dental treatments which involve veneers, crowns and/or some clear braces (Invisalign). If you’re considering cosmetic dental treatment, ask yourself a few simple questions: • Do you hesitate when you smile? • Would you like to increase your self-confidence? • Do you want to look your best in social or professional situations? • Are you ready to reverse any dental imperfections you may have? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, cosmetic dentistry may be the answer you’ve been looking for! Veneers are routinely used to fix several things, including: • Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment, the presence of large resin fillings that have discolored the tooth or stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride or other causes • Teeth that are worn down, chipped or broken • Teeth that are misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped • Teeth with gaps between them to close the space between them Call us today to inquire about details and let Dr. Kim help you start the new year with a beautiful smile!
Providence Village Experience - 13
Home
&
Garden
Children & Gardening: Planting the Seeds that will GROW for a lifetime!
radishes, green beans HOW TO GROW A GARDENER or lettuce. Seeing what they Many adults have fond memories of helping parents and planted as little seeds emerge and look like grandparents in a vegetable garden. Digging in the dirt. real vegetables is rewarding. When planting seedlings, Picking ripe vegetables for dinner. Watching insects search talk about why the hole needs to be deep enough to for bugs and bees for nectar. It was fun! Whether we knew match the depth of the container, but not too deep. it or not, we also learned where food comes from and how Show them how to gently press the soil around a plant to work with nature to our mutual benefit. If you have young to protect the roots and give it a good start. children or grandchildren, you can make a difference in their lives by sharing your love and knowledge of gardening. Young children can also help with watering seedlings but expect there to be some mess involved. That is part of the entertainment. And, be sure to include START YOUNG them in harvesting. Children have been known to enjoy Most pre-school aged children enjoy being outside and eating vegetables digging in the dirt. They will jump Denton County Master Gardener Association they helped pick even at the chance to dig a hole and Children’s Garden invites children and their parents to though they would not plant a seed. If they come across an earthworm, all the better! Remember learn about gardening through planting, maintaining, normally like to eat them. and harvesting vegetables and herbs. that young children have short attention spans, so don’t give them too much to do at one time. Teaching young children how SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN IN THE GARDEN to be gardeners does not require lesson plans and lectures. As children progress through elementary school, Rather, it is show and tell. Let the child do simple tasks. the time they can focus on a single task increases Show them how to hold the tools, how to dig the holes, and they are learning to solve problems and accept plant the seeds or seedlings, cover and water them. Most responsibility. The gardening knowledge you share with children love children in middle childhood includes selecting the best praise, so be plants for our growing area, timing planting to optimize generous with the chance of success, and reinforcing good plant it as they show management. Gardening should still be fun though and you what they include recognition of their accomplishments. have learned. This is a good age to give a child his or her own garden If you are space. Think about creating a dedicated area for a planting child’s garden. An area about 2 to 3 feet wide and 6 seeds, choose feet long allows a child to reach into the garden to something water, weed, and harvest without stepping into the that comes up soil or onto the plants. Have your child make a sign in just a few identifying this special area as (child’s name)’s garden. days, such as
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Continued on page 16
Spring
in Providence Village By Nancy Konecki
Have you seen the Providence Village HOA Yard of the Month signs around the neighborhoods? Ever wonder how to get one of those signs in front of your house? It happens after the PV HOA Landscape Committee members ride around looking at the beautiful landscaping done by members of our community. Winners are selected, and the signs are placed. But the process starts long before the committee goes for their ride. A quality landscape starts before you even get your hands dirty. Designing a good landscape is a step by step process. A little extra time in the early stages will go a long way toward an easy to maintain, beautiful design. • • • • • • •
Plan your design – Start with the end in mind. Once you know what you want it to look like, look at what you have and start from there. Reduce turf area – A luxurious green lawn is difficult to maintain in North Texas with brutally hot, dry summers and frequent water restrictions in place. A smaller turf area is easier to maintain and less expensive to water. Soil – Build up your soil with organic matter. Compost helps to condition the soil, hold moisture, prevent runoff, reduce erosion and unlocks nutrients in the soil. Planting – Make sure you plant based on the needs of the plant, not on what looks pretty in the garden center. Consider water, sun and shade requirements and soil type, as well as Texas native plants to reduce the labor required to keep your landscape looking beautiful. Mulch – Build up a 3” base of mulch in flower beds and around trees to help maintain moisture and keep the soil cooler. Water wisely – Make sure your hydration system is well maintained and puts the water where you want it, not on the sidewalk. Water early in the day for 5 – 10 minutes (1” of water) once a week on established plants; new plants will need to be watered more often. Maintenance – Although mulch will help to keep the weeds down, some will manage to grow, so keep them under control. Keep your eye out for garden pests and try cultural, organic, physical and mechanical means of pest control instead of chemicals. If you choose plants carefully, you can avoid heavy pruning as well. Some native Texas flowers recommended by the landscape committee include zinnia, sweet potato vine, periwinkle, penta, purslane, lantana, coneflower, salvia and autumn sage. For additional drama and some ornamental grass, try holly fern and purple oxalis. Throw in a few herbs to add to the beauty of the landscape and the flavor of your dinner. Basil, mint and chives are good choices.
Photos by: Britney Pepper
Shrubs that do well here in Providence Village include holly, crepe myrtle, yaupon holly and roses (be cautious with roses due to rose rosette disease in the area). Oak trees including live oak, red oak, bur oak, and post oak are native to Texas and do well. Redbud is also a great choice for the North Texas area.
Keep your eye on the Providence Village HOA Landscape Committee website for information on our committee meetings and other events, plus tips for your garden. We are always looking for people to join our team and help neighbors with their drive to be the next house with a YOTM sign (and a little something extra that you can use to add more beauty to your landscape) in your yard.
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Create a plan. Children 6 to 8 years old may want to grow vegetables they like to eat. Or, you can work together to create a special-purpose space such as a pizza or taco garden that provides ingredients for some of their favorite foods. Use the planning time to talk about the plant’s required growing conditions including the amount of sunlight required, nutrients and time to maturity. For younger children, they might enjoy drawing a picture of their new garden plan. When feasible, take the child with you to purchase the seedlings or seed packets, all the while gently teaching. After the garden is planted, your focus as gardening guru shifts to sharing information about plant care. Some children respond best to a written list of tasks that can be checked off when accomplished, while other children do better with hands-on instruction. You can reinforce learned concepts by asking questions about how and why a task should be done. As the child gets older, they can take increased responsibility for their garden, but in the beginning plan on helping directly. Toward the end of middle-childhood—ages 9 to 12—a youngster may become interested in the garden as a laboratory for school science projects. What a wonderful opportunity to share knowledge and encourage young minds! This is also an age when children develop a group of friends who they want to spend time with. So, you might take advantage of that to invite a few more children into gardening projects. After a gardening activity is done, you can sit in the shade and talk about what went on, who did what, who saw what. YOU HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE As children enter the teenage years, their priorities shift to spending time with their peer group often to the exclusion of gardening activities. They are becoming independent beings. This is normal. However, from you, they acquired knowledge about and an appreciation of growing a garden that will emerge later in their lives to be shared with their children and grandchildren. Thank you! Article and photos used by the permission of Texas A&M AgriLife ExtensionDenton County and the Denton County Master Gardener Association. Byline: Barbara Brown and Rhonda Love
Home & Garden content sponsored in part by: TIN SUITCASE
American Beauty Berry
Blackfoot Daisy
Coralberry
Coral Honeysuckle
Frog Fruit
NATIVE PLANTS OF TEXAS Content provided by:
Indian Blanket
Indian Sea Oats
Lantana
Texas Lantana
Little Bluestem
Promoting the conservation, research, and utilization of the native plants and plant habitats of Texas, through education, outreach, and example.
Mexican Hat
Missouri Primrose
16 - Providence Village Experience
Pink Evening Primrose
Prairie Celestial
Sundrops
BEWARE OF THE SNAKES IN THE GRASS It’s springtime in Texas, and you can be sure that those slithery little creatures will be out and about enjoying the warmth of the sun, searching for food and otherwise getting themselves in a bit of trouble if they surprise you in your garden, garage or anywhere for that matter. To keep yourself, your kids and pets safe, you need to know whether they are friend or foe. The graphic to the left shows venomous snakes native to our area. For immediate identification, scan the QR code below or visit facebook.com/groups/whatsnakeisthis or texassnakeid.com. All graphics used with full permission by David Pyle and What Snake is This Facebook Group.
5 BIG LAWN MISTAKES MOST PEOPLE MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM Want a gorgeous, green lawn? Of course, you do! But it isn’t quite there yet, and you don’t know why. Maybe you think you’re doing everything right, but you’re still having problems with patchy grass or weeds taking over. You mow every week and water every day, so that should do it, right? Or maybe the lawn looks okay—it’s mostly green and there aren’t too many weeds—but it could be lusher, and you’re a li�le wary that those weeds might begin to multiply. But still, you’re not sure what you should be doing differently. Don’t worry! Chances are there’s something simple you’re overlooking in your lawn care plan. A�er all, your lawn didn’t come with an owner’s manual. Turns out, there are 5 big lawn mistakes that most people make. These lawn mistakes are really common, so don’t feel bad if you’ve fallen victim to one or more of them. They’re actually quite easy to avoid—or fix—once you know what to look for. Scan to read full article
Providence Village Experience - 17
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Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Aubrey Festival Grounds Ball Drop at 4:30 p.m.
301 South Main Street
SUPPORT AUBREY ISD STUDENTS AND TEACHERS Purchase tickets for a chance to win!
a a a
Chance to win a $10,000 Grand Prize First, Second and Third Place Prizes Food Trucks and Live Music, starting at 5 p.m.
For more information and/or to buy tickets scan the QR Code
“Keep your fac e towards the Sunshine and shadows will fall b ehind you.” Stitching Star Designs
18 - Providence Village Experience
~ Walt Whitman
FEBRUARY 2020 TIC TAC TOE
? ?
Providence Village Experience - 19
20 - Providence Village Experience
MORTGAGE
A Division of Independent Financial
HOME FINANCING ON YOUR TERMS
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ATTENTION FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS Looking to buy your first home, but don’t think you can even afford a down payment to get started? Meet Leslie Thompson, Senior Mortgage Loan Originator with Independent Bank Mortgage in Pilot Point. Local to the area, Leslie has been in the mortgage business for over 35 years and would love to be your Local Hometown Mortgage Lender. Leslie specializes in helping people get into their very first home. “I love helping first-time home buyers with their first home purchase. It is so exciting to help them achieve the American Dream,” says Leslie. You don’t have to have 20% down like many people believe. “We have multiple down payment assistance programs, so many times we can do a mortgage loan without a down payment.”
Leslie Thompson Senior Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#469210 | lthompson@ibtx.com Office - 940.565.7054 | Cell - 972.658.2189
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Leslie can do conventional, jumbo, FHA, VA, & USDA loans, as well as purchase, refinance and home equity loans. She also has programs for firefighters, police Continued on next page officers, EMTs, teachers
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and school personnel. In some situations, the bank can help with boosting credit scores to achieve a required score if needed. Leslie is available to meet on your schedule, or she can do everything by email, whichever you prefer. So if you’re in the market for a new home and need mortgage options, reach out to Leslie directly with any questions!
Scan for Online Application
CBD: HYPE OR HELP? ARE HEMP AND MARIJUANA THE SAME?
For years hemp has been confused with its illegal cousin. With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, however, America will see a resurgence in hemp agriculture and health benefits from phytocannabinoids. Furthermore, UltraCell’s CBD provides health benefits free from THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. WHAT MAKES OUR PRODUCTS DIFFERENT?
Unlike other hemp oils that draw upon only isolated portions of the hemp plant, UltraCell is derived using full-spectrum hemp oil extract, known as cannabidiol, or CBD. While CBD has known health benefits, the reality is that other CBD-isolate products cannot benefit the body like our full-spectrum hemp oil, which utilizes all parts of the hemp plant and its phytocannabinoids. UltraCell contains over 400 biologically active compounds, including CBD and an entourage of other cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, vitamins, fatty acids and minerals. By utilizing all aspects of the hemp plant in its natural state, UltraCell creates an environment where the natural compounds work together to create a synergistic effect. When it comes to UltraCell, the true sum of the whole is greater than the parts. UltraCell makes the power of the hemp plant fully available, the way that nature intended.
Fur Services Fur Pets is a professional pet care team. Since 2013,
we have put a priority on education, quality of care and peace of mind for our clients. Our team is highly trained, including: Pet CPR & First Aid Trained/Certified, FetchFind Trained, Certified Professional Pet Si�er and NAPPS Certified Professional Pet Si�er. Boarding is not an option for all pets. We come to you to care for your pets when you choose to keep them in the comfort of their own home. Whether you’re on vacation or your fur baby just needs daily po�y breaks and walks, we’re here to help!
WE OFFER: • Easy Scheduling • Visit Reports + Photos •Ongoing Employee Training •Professional •Insured & Bonded •Pet CPR/First Aid
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Qualified pet care requires more than just being an animal lover. Be sure to ask the following questions when considering a professional pet care provider: • Are they insured? Proper insurance in the pet care industry includes coverage in case something happens to your pets, your home or to the pet care provider, removing your financial liability. • Are they Trained? You want a pet care provider who knows how to properly care for your pets, handle emergencies and who isn’t going to put your pet in a situation where it could get injured. • Are they watching your home? From security to functionality, a professional should be monitoring and reporting about your home while not taking risks that put your home or pets in danger. • Is there a backup plan? Professionals have a plan in the event they cannot make an appointment. If there is an accident, they have a family emergency or get sick, there is a plan to make sure your pet is not overlooked. Choosing someone to care for your pets isn’t an easy task. At Fur Services Fur Pets, we take the hassle and worry out of pet care.
STORMS ARE COMING IS YOUR ROOF READY? DO YOU KNOW HOW TO SPOT AN ISSUE?
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, GIVE US A CALL. WE CAN HELP! AT ROOFING REFORMATION, WE PROVIDE A WORKMANSHIP WARRANTY ON THE ROOFS WE REPLACE. NOT ONLY DO YOU RECEIVE GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND QUALITY MATERIALS, BUT WE ALSO PROVIDE THE ABILITY TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR ROOF. SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN HOW TO SPOT DAMAGE.
Rob Vaughan
ROOFING COMPANY VAUGHN Providence Village Experience - 23
Love Stories
FEATURE
IN PROVIDENCE VILLAGE
KRYSTAL & KAI
Fast & Furious After her fair share of bad dates and disappointments, Krystal—a single mom in Chattanooga, Tennessee— adamantly canceled her online dating profiles, completely unsatisfied with the pool of available men. That was that. However, not much later, on a fateful Saturday night in October 2002, Krystal received an email that would change her life forever. It was a message sent from an admirer on Match.com. He was visiting from Germany, very tall, looking to hang out with someone and just happened to have an extra Aerosmith ticket for a few days later. Krystal had no idea what to do. Her roommate encouraged her to pursue him. “It’s fate!” she exclaimed. I mean, he was leaving in a week. Okay, yeah, let’s do this. Enticed by Aerosmith and convinced she wouldn’t become attached, Krystal met Kai for some beer and a game of pool that night. At a feisty 5’1”, Krystal entered the bar and scanned the room. Instantly, she spotted Kai; he towered over everyone else, standing at a striking 6’5”. They met, talked and played round after round of pool. Nearing the end of the pitcher, Krystal moved to refill her beer when Kai approached her, grabbed her and kissed her right there in the middle of the bar. Flushed and overwhelmed, they were instantly spellbound. They spent every waking moment together for the rest of the weekend, AOL messaging when they were apart. After a movie that neither of them remembers, they sat in the car talking when Kai nervously told her, “I know we just met, but I really think I’m in love with you.” Krystal’s feelings unnerved her because she felt the exact same way. Head-over-heels for this strapping German man and absolutely terrified, she responded, “I think I love you too.”
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On Tuesday, at the start of Aerosmith’s iconic “I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing,” Kai swayed Krystal on his shoulders. That song, that moment, the past four days enchanted them. Two days later, they went to dinner, and a jazz band softly set the mood. Kai kneeled and proposed. Krystal eagerly accepted. The following Saturday, only a week after meeting Krystal, Kai returned to Germany. Upon picking him up at the airport, his mother noticed the longing in his face and knowingly asked, “Did you leave half your heart in Tennessee?” She knew…half of his heart belonged to Krystal. On February 15th, 2003, just four short months after meeting on the internet, Krystal and Kai were married in Tennessee. Kai stayed in the United States, and the two had a son, Danny, the following year. Krystal commented that one of the biggest struggles they’ve had has been blending two families together, raising children from previous marriages between Tennessee and Germany. While the path hasn’t always been smooth (Krystal admits they can both be hardheaded), there is an overwhelming sense of trust and support in their relationship. They’re still together every day, both sharing an office and working from home. Last year, Kai became a full-fledged American citizen, giving them one more thing in life to celebrate. They enjoy traveling together and love throwing parties with their friends, where the living room transforms into a dance floor and Kai DJs for the crowd. One whirlwind of a week turned into a lifetime, all-encompassing romance that only grows in fun, support and love.
Love always bears up, always trusts, always hopes, always endures. ~ 1 Corinthians 13:7
MAYKON & ALLAN
Accidents Happen! Divided between continents and separated by hemispheres, Maykon and Allan were brought together by sheer destiny. A pharmacist in his small hometown of Rio Verde, Brazil, Maykon received a friend request on February 14th of 2012. As fate would have it, Allan—a flight attendant living in Florida and engaged to a woman—happened to be perusing Facebook and saw that Maykon had made a comment on a mutual friend’s post. He was instantly intrigued by the handsome Brazilian’s profile. Now, according to Maykon, Allan claims that he forgot to turn his phone off and “accidentally” sent a friend request Maykon’s way. It was the best accident that could have happened, though, for Maykon saw this cute stranger’s request and accepted, excited by the possibilities. The two immediately hit it off. They chatted every day after that and officially started online dating a month later in March. They skyped all the time, eating meals together, drinking red wine (Allan’s favorite) and going to sleep at the end of the day with the comfort of having each other there on the screen. After those few months of online dating, Allan was in Brazil again. As he was supposed to be getting on his flight back to the US, Allan left the airport instead, and ever a romantic, took a 7-hour bus trip to Rio Verde to meet Maykon in person for the first time. The plan was to stay for 3 days; he was there for two weeks. Allan moved to Rio Verde two months later to be with Maykon. Eleven days after that, on June 12, 2012 (Brazilian Valentine’s Day), Maykon received flowers at the pharmacy with two rings tucked into the bouquet. In traditional Brazilian fashion, their names were engraved inside the bands. Allan had proposed. Later that summer, Maykon’s job transferred him to their state capital, Goiânia. This was a tough move for the couple, and they knew they needed to go to the United States. On June 12, 2013, a year after their engagement, Maykon and Allan moved to Miami. Gay marriage was legalized that same month, and on October 30, 2013, the couple flew to Los Angeles and married. Maykon said that it was so difficult leaving his family behind in Brazil because he is very close with them. Fortunately, Allan’s job with American Airlines means they can visit them a few times a year. In their down time, the couple loves staying home and spending evenings with each other and close friends or
family. Maykon expressed that “trust is the most important thing” to have in a relationship. He described that gay relationships are often heavily based on physical attraction, but he and Allan have a very strong bond that surpasses attraction and strengthens their love and friendship with each other. They both hope to be fathers and to grow their loving family, accomplishing more together each day. What started as a simple, “accidental” Facebook friend request has turned into a fairytale love story.
AMI & MARCO
Reunited... And It Feels So Good! Late December back in 2001, oh what a night! Ami and her cousin decided to have a girl’s night out at a nightclub in San Antonio. Enjoying the 80s dance floor along the Riverwalk, Marco approached Ami and said, “Hi! Are you from Iowa?” Stop the music, did he just ask her in San Antonio, Texas, if she was from Iowa?” Turns out, Marco, from Mexico, was living in Iowa, working on his master’s degree. His brother played football for the Hawkeyes, and the team played in the Alamo Bowl. Not aware of the football game, she thought it was the worst pick-up line she’d ever heard. So Ami told him yes, and that her name was Sarah. After hours of dancing and chatting, the two exchanged contact information and Ami confessed her real name, but thought she’d never hear from him again. Marco called the next day and would call her two more times before Ami responded. A month later, Marco came to visit Ami in San Antonio for Superbowl weekend, and sparks were heating up. Marco began flying in on Thursdays, and Ami would take him back to the airport on Mondays. This continued for the entire spring semester. Upon graduation in August, Marco moved to San Antonio to live near Ami and quickly found a job. Two years into the relationship, Marco’s student Visa expired, and he asked Ami to move to Mexico. With no intention to remarry or live in Mexico, Ami was content to continue dating, and “slowly it will just taper off, is what I thought,” she remembers. Marco moved to Mexico in September 2003 due to a Visa complications, but continued to visit Ami. On a visit that November, he proposed. “Yes…,” responds Ami. “But in a year. If we can hold this long-distance relationship Continued on next page
Providence Village Experience - 25
Continued from previous page
together for a year, I’ll do it.” Not the most romantic response, have never been happier. Is marriage on the horizon for his but plans were made for her to move to Mexico once married. couple again? Maybe. Are they in it for the long haul? Marco says, “Absolutely.” Ami says, “This is the beginning of our They tied-the-knot in 2004, and Ami gave birth to Bela in early new chapter.” 2005, moving to Mexico 4 months later as promised. The family of 3 was together at last. The five-year plan in Mexico turned into nine years. Their second daughter, Alena, was born in late 2011. Marco was busy working while Ami was a stay-at-home mom. Life began to naturally take over where priority was put on the kids and family business. In 2014, the family moved to Providence Village. Ami grew up in the area, and she wanted to be close to her family so her girls could create memories with them. Providence Village’s newly minted town was the perfect place to raise their family. The first 2 years, their life was a schedule of Marco traveling; he would be home for two weeks, and just when they started to get on each other’s nerves, he would go Mexico for business for two weeks. It worked for them. Eventually, Marco was spending more time in the States than Mexico and applied for his Visa, which took 2 years to complete. The last 14 months of that process, he was restricted from leaving the country, and living together full-time took its toll on their marriage. Both were working from home and together 24-7. Ami and Marco had never, in 10 years, spent so much time together. Tension mounted and their relationship suffered greatly during this time. The marriage wasn’t a priority for either of them; it was crumbling right before their eyes. They tried counseling and a couple’s retreat, but in the end, they couldn’t hold it together. They fell back into their old routines. Marco received his residency in December of 2017, but a month later, the couple decided to separate and divorce. Marco wanted to be close to the girls, so he rented a house nearby. Ami and Marco went in their own direction with their personal lives, having no intention of reuniting. However, they would frequently be seen out together for family dinners or at school events supporting their kids. The girls’ friends questioned if their parents were really getting divorced.
FAITH & KLAYTON
Young Love It was his senior year and her junior year of high school in the small town of Maumelle, Arkansas. While they had known each other since the 8th and 9th grade, it was hot summer afternoons spent at a local frozen yogurt shop that really brought Klay and Faith together. Klay and a group of friends played music at the shop once a week, and after shows, everyone would retreat back to Faith’s house. While Faith claims that he may have been a bit too sarcastic for her at first, they both agreed that they knew right away their friendship was meant for more. It only grew until they started dating. Many people doubted that their relationship would last. After all, high school romances rarely turn into lifelong commitments, right?
However, these two remained inseparable. When he graduated, Klay stayed home and attended a local college until Faith graduated high school. They agreed they didn’t want to be separated, and once Faith graduated the following year, they both enrolled at Arkansas Tech University. On Valentine’s Day in 2014, they stood at the top of Mount Nebo near Russellville, Arkansas. Klay read Faith a poem, full of Disney references she would appreciate, and December 2018, the couple met to discuss divorce proposed. They were married on that same mountain on agreements. Marco proposed the idea of trying to work out March 19, 2016. the relationship. With Ami wondering where the cameras were and thinking it was a joke, she hesitated. Eventually she While many couples have their own hobbies or separate agreed, but with one condition: She still wanted the divorce. plans, Klay and Faith happily do everything together. They “In the event round 2 doesn’t work out, we can just move both work from home for PETA, pioneering animal rights and forward and be done with it. But in the event it does work spreading awareness. They can be found touring Victorian out, I wanted to put an end to the bad chapter and have a homes for design inspiration or simply walking through new beginning,” explained Ami. They started dating again, Providence Village together. They also enjoy spending and hand-in-hand at the courthouse, the divorce was final 62 quality time with their adorable adopted all-American mutt, Emerson. Even putting their names side by side, Klay and days later. Faith, is effortlessly natural. Klay commented that most They’ve made their relationship a priority; they make time for people say it’s important to give and take in a relationship, the little things and ensure their relationship is top of the list. following the 50/50 rule. However, they strive every day to They recently moved back into together, and Ami and Marco give 100% to each other.
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Continued on page 39
Spring @
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HEALTH
SPRING
Mind, Body & Soul That Slow Life The alarm clock buzzes and the day begins. You feed the dogs, the kids, maybe yourself. You rush to get everyone out the door on time. Each morning, you hurry to your car only to sit in the parking lot of Highway 380 or on some construction-clogged backroad. Life is busy. Life is full. And let’s be honest, life is stressful! There are days that you rock it, and there are days when you want to escape. The odds are, though, that life likely won’t slow down anytime soon. But you want to feel connected. You want to be able to handle what life throws at you. You want to be calm in the chaos. You want to slow down! But, slow living is more than lounging on the couch or doing everything at a snail’s pace. Lea Goin CLARITY WITH LEA
Slow living is about approaching life in a more meaningful way — to do “everything as well as possible instead of as fast as possible.” There’s a whole range of tips and tricks for slowing down and enjoying life. Go tech-free. Walk or bike to work. Escape the city. Connect with the earth. Whip up some homemade, farmfresh jam. And while these ideas certainly help, maybe you don’t know the first thing about canning. Or perhaps you aren’t able to run off to a tiny cabin in the mountains quite yet… To read my full blog, scan the QR code to the right.
Continue Reading
SPRING ALLERGIES For all of us North Texans, springtime means all kinds of fun things. Warmer weather, baseball, planting a garden and probably ge�ng the kids outside for much needed play. Hallie Crawford CORRECTIVE TOUCH
We all know that springtime can be miserable too! Blooming flowers and trees means pollen counts are high and allergy symptoms are off the charts.
During this time of year, be good to your body by asking your massage therapist about full body and facial massages to help ease allergy symptoms. Using massage to help keep your stress levels low will also help boost your immune system and rid your body of toxins that can make allergies worse. Facial massages can help drain your sinuses and open up your nasal cavities so you can breathe be�er. While many spring allergies may not be avoided, a few simple actions can help make your north Texas spring more enjoyable! 28 - Providence Village Experience
Disc Health The spinal column consists of 26 movable bones (31 bones total) called vertebrae. The vertebral bones are stacked on top of one another. The intervertebral disc is a cushioning substance that is located between adjacent vertebrae, aiding in shock absorption during Dr. Kat Bryan motion and protecting the spinal cord from AT EASE CHIRO injury/trauma. With aging, discs tend to lose water, which can lead to disc degeneration. Unlike the muscles and organs of our bodies, the intervertebral disc has no blood supply. This means that for a disc to receive necessary nutrition (and for wastes to be carried away), it must rely on the flow of water, as well as healthy mechanical motion, to stay healthy. Some tips for taking care of your intervertebral discs include: • Improving your posture, which may include exercise, stretching and regular movement • Using good body mechanics when li�ing heavy objects • Sleeping on a firm, supportive ma�ress • Qui�ng smoking (or don’t start) • Maintaining a healthy weight • Eating nutritiously • Drinking a lot of water • Minimizing alcohol Chiropractic care, regular movement and exercise are key to spinal health. Your vertebrae and discs will thank you for visiting your chiropractor to get checked
and “keep you in line.”
Bring the Outdoors In
It’s spring in North Texas … and what does that mean? It means we have a limited number of days when we can open our doors and windows and really air out our homes.
Between spring storms, heavy rains, busy lives and sometimes a breakneck rise in temperatures, the opportunity to really air out the “winter funk” is limited. That’s when a diffuser and essential oil blends come in handy. Not only do they make our homes smell amazing, but, they also help to keep our homes free of harsh chemicals and perfumes.
It’s fun to channel your inner alchemist, and by combining citrus, floral and earthy scented essential oils, you’ll be able to find your absolute favorite blend in no time. Other fun uses for essential oils? Use them in lieu of cologne or perfume or add them to your bath with some baking soda as a relaxing soak. (*Note – do not apply citrus scents directly to the skin when you know you’ll be out in the sun as they have a tendency to cause a reaction.) CITRUS
FLORAL
EARTHY
Sweet Orange
Lavender
Sandlewood
Lime
Rose Absolute
Juniper Berry
Lemon
Roman Chamomile
Cedarwood
Grapefruit
Geranium
Vetiver
Tangerine
Jasmine
Patchouli
Ylang Ylang
Lemongrass
Providence Village Experience - 29
Scan to Listen BEST LITTLE VENUE
IN
NORTH TEXAS
Spring is in the air…well almost anyway. With this crazy Texas weather, some days feel like it’s here already. Spring is a time for new beginnings. Looking for a place to tie the knot, welcome a new baby or just celebrate? UnWine’d & Chapel Venues is the perfect spot! Their unique property offers spaces ideal for any formal or informal event. From shabby chic, country and casual to black tie affairs, anything is possible in their versatile spaces…weddings, baby and bridal showers, engagement parties, corporate dinners, business meetings, social hours, private dinners, team building, wine and beer tastings and more! They offer indoor seating up to 80, with outdoor seating available on their open lawn areas and around the gazebo. The beautiful views provide a natural décor for all occasions. Access to the wine bar is also included! Be sure to check them out for your upcoming events. Located in Cross Roads, they’re literally “just around the corner” from Providence Village!
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IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN IN NORTH TEXAS Spring not only brings new life, but in our neck of the woods, it can also bring dangerous spring storms and we just never know how severe those storms will be. And while we can’t control the weather, we do need to be WEATHER AWARE!
STORM
SAFETY
Below are just a few tips from the National Weather Service to keep you, your family and pets safe: LIGHTNING: Lightning strikes during storms in North Texas are NO JOKE! According to the 2018 Vaisala Lightning report: Texas had over 2,483,805 cloud to ground lightning strikes with the second leading state of Flordia with less than half of that number. Outdoors • Avoid open fields.Stay away from tall, isolated trees or other tall objects If you are camping in an open area, set up camp in a valley, ravine or other low areas. • Stay away from water, wet items, such as ropes, and metal objects, such as fences and poles. Water and metal do not attract lightning but they are excellent conductors of electricity. Indoors • Stay off corded phones • Don’t touch electrical equipment such as computers, TVs, or cords. • Avoid plumbing. Do not wash your hands, take a shower or wash dishes. • Stay away from exterior windows and doors that might contain metal components leading from outside your home to the inside. • Stay off balconies, porches and out of open garages or carports. • Protect your pets: Dog houses are not safe shelters. Dogs that are chained to trees or on metal runners are particularly vulnerable to lightning strikes. • Protect your property: Lightning generates electric surges that can damage electronic equipment some distance from the actual strike. Typical surge protectors will not protect equipment from a lightning strike. Do not unplug equipment during a thunderstorm as there is a risk you could be struck.
TORNADOS:
FLOODING: During a flood, water levels and the rate the water is flowing can quickly change. Remain aware of and monitor local radio and television outlets. Avoid floodwaters at all costs and evacuate immediately when water starts to rise. Don’t wait until it’s too late! • Stay Informed: Listen to radio and television, including NOAA Weather Radio if possible, check the Internet and social media for information and updates. • Get to Higher Ground: If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low lying area, get to higher ground immediately. • Obey Evacuation Orders: If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. • Practice Electrical Safety: Don’t go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises--get out! Stay out of water that may have electricity in it! • Avoid Flood Waters: Don't walk through floodwaters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible. Do NOT drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade; Turn Around, Don't Drown!
Storm Safety content sponsored in part by: The
Crazy German
• Stay Weather-Ready: Continue to listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about tornado watches and warnings. • At Your House: If you are in a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don’t forget pets if time allows. • At Your Workplace or School: Follow your tornado drill and proceed to your tornado shelter location quickly and calmly. Stay away from windows and do not go to large open rooms such as cafeterias, gymnasiums, or auditoriums. • Outside: Seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately if a tornado is approaching. Sheds and storage facilities are not safe. Neither is a mobile home or tent. If you have time, get to a safe building. • In a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. The best course of action is to drive to the closest shelter. If you are unable to make it to a safe shelter, either get down in your car and cover your head, or abandon your car and seek shelter in a low lying area such as a ditch or ravine.
For more information on Storm Safety, visit weather.gov
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Monaco guidance counselor Wendi Dowd received a teacher grant from AEF. In 2019, AEF awarded 13 grants, totaling $25,997, to Aubrey ISD teachers.
AHS graduates Charlie Newman and Autumn Gallagher each received the Perfecto Lopez Memorial Scholarship, awarded by the AEF. AHS graduate Kaleb Wright, pictured with Evalois Owens, received the Evalois Owens Scholarship, one of the 34 scholarships that was awarded by the AEF to AHS seniors. A Monaco Elementary student pages through a book that was given to her by the AEF Literacy Program. AEF volunteers read to students several times a year and send home a book with every child at every visit.
AHS graduate Brenden Hough received the Larry Dean Memorial Scholarship from AEF.
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CALENDAR
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WE WOULD LIKE TO GIVE A SPECIAL ‘THANK YOU’ TO OUR SPONSORS!
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
At Ease Chiropractic Aubrey Pharmacy Clarity with Lea Corrective Touch Cross Roads Hormonal Health & Med Spa DGK Insurance The Crazy German Deanie Deal & Tin Suitcase Farmers Insurance - Kiesling Agency Financial Fitness Fur Services Fur Pets Independent Bank Mortgage Navo Family Dental North Texas Lawn & Tree Care Roofing Reformation Secured Title of Texas Solar Crossfit Spanish Portal Starwood Café Town & Country Realtors Turner Wellness DFW UnWine’d Wine Bar Woodlands Eyecare
COME JOIN THE Dates and times subject to change without notice. Contact venues directly to confirm events. Some events may have an associated cost.
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FACEBOOK RESOURCE PAGE Scan the QR Codes to go directly to each FB Page or Group.
Aldi
Babysitters Club
BBQ & Smoking Group
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Water Cooler
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PV Experience
Providence Village Experience - 37
Continued from page 26
What is so beautiful about Klay and Faith’s relationship is how transparently committed they are to it and to each other. They radiate a genuine feeling of comfort and devotion, contentedly journeying through life together. While they have endured difficulties, like moving to Virginia when they started working for PETA and later coming to Texas, Klay and Faith agree that everything about their relationship is special. “The hardest thing is probably just that people don’t understand it,” Faith described. Every moment, each day, they share with each other. They wouldn’t have it any other way. When they started dating, Faith began taking pictures, documenting their time together. On their anniversary each year, they go through their memories, reminiscing and reflecting on the friendship that grew into a steadfast partnership. As for growing their family and future children: “Maybe someday,” says Klay.
“The best love is the one that makes you a better person, without changing you into someone other than yourself.” Krystal & Kai, Maykon & Allan and Faith & Klayton love stories written by: Shannon Robinson Ami & Marco love story written by: Sina Tidwell Faith & Klayton photo credit: Katie Childs
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38 - Providence Village Experience
And it’s One... Two... Three Strikes Your Out
Baseball season is upon us, and what better way to enjoy America’s favorite pastime than at Dr. Pepper Park in Frisco, home of the Frisco RoughRiders. The Riders are a Minor League Baseball team, serving as an affiliate of the Texas Rangers since 2003 and hosting 70 home games per year. In addition to traditional stadium seating, games can be watched from a variety of locations around the park. The Lazy River is the most unique fan experience in the DFW area and is widely recognized as one of the best ballpark features in sports. Entertainment suites are private, air-conditioned spaces with outdoor balcony seating. Party @ The Yard, located behind outfield with access to the Lazy River, is the biggest 21+ party in North Texas. With so many options to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and occasion!
Providence Village Experience - 39
****ECRWSSEDDM****
PO Box 334 | Aubrey, TX 76227
Local Postal Customer
NETWORKING LUNCH LINDA BULLWINKLE with FINANCIAL FITNESS
Come meet the PVE Team & our Sponsors. Lunch $5 - Please RSVP by February 11
Hosted at
* Gluten Free Options Available
Tickets are Limited. RSVP Soon! | 5101 FM 424 | Cross Roads, Texas 76227 |