Issuu

JUNE 2020

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

#DentonCountyStrong

Now more than ever, personalized advice matters Congratulations to Jeffery D. Price for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” 2020 list and the Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” 2020 list. This is the 3rd time Jeffery has been recognized on the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list and the 8th time on the Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list. We can provide customized, comprehensive advice and guidance to help you stay on track to pursue your goals. When the world changes, we’re here to help. Let’s work through this together.

Price & Associates Jeffery D. Price Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor 817.410.4940 Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 286 Grand Avenue Suite 200 Southlake, TX 76092 fa.ml.com/price Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, January 16, 2020. Data provided by SHOOK™ Research, LLC. Data as of June 30, 2019. The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receives compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com. Source: The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list, March 13, 2020. The Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” ranking considered advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings and recognition from Barron’s are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results, and such rankings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed The Bull Symbol is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

May Lose Value MAP3047724 | AD-04-20-0325.A | 472538PM-0420 | 04/2020

LIFESTYLE LETTER

JUNE 2020 PUBLISHER

Jane Krzysiak | jane.krzysiak@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Stephanie Hasbrouck | stephanie.hasbrouck@lifestylepubs.com

#DentonCountyStrong HELEN KELLER SAID, “ALONE WE CAN DO SO LITTLE. TOGETHER WE CAN DO SO MUCH.” With the recent COVID-19 outbreak, Americans tapped into their resilience and ability to pull together in a crisis. Never was this more evident than in our own community. #DentonCountyStrong was not just a slogan many used but the true spirit embodied by our citizens. Businesses pivoted or waited – while we all sheltered in place. Parents stepped up to homeschool children, and teachers instructed in new ways. Many served those in need, and our healthcare workers proved superheroes have always worn masks. This issue, we are proud to share many heartwarming stories. Our local leadership in

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Samantha Eklund | samantha.eklund@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stephanie Hasbrouck, Jeffery Price CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Blackall Photography, Thomas Judd Photography, Elizabeth Haas, Town of Flower Mound, Illustrative Depictions Photography, A.J. Lopez, Candid Memories

government, schools, churches and community organizations have worked hand-inhand to support each other and you! In “Hometown Heroes” we learn how some of our local folks contributed on a daily basis in their own unique ways. We also check in with Keller RN, Charlie Adams, who volunteered to go to pandemic “ground zero” and took us along with her for the ride. She chronicled her experiences in her fascinating “TX RN Takes on NYC” Facebook posts that so many of us followed. We lean on local financial maven. Merrill Lynch’s Jeffrey Price to answer the common questions he was asked during this turbulent time. In “Support Local” we highlight how area businesses and organizations shone in the wake of the Coronavirus Outbreak. And, we spent 24 hours with the Bendt Distillery team to truly understand the commitment and sacrifice made by their award-winning team. We are still giving a nod to dads this month with Uptown Farmhouse’s Chef Garth

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Jane Krzysiak, Publisher ON THE COVER Cross Timbers Lifestyle would like to thank Denton County for partnering with us on the #DentonCountyStrong logo.

LOGO DESIGN BY: LISA PARELLI WITH PARELLI MARKETING 4

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cross Timbers areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cross Timbers Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE JUNE 2020

FEATURES 14 Support Local! Area Businesses & Organizations Shine in Wake of Coronavirus Outbreak

18 Hometown Heroes Local Individuals Go Above and Beyond for Their Community

24 24 Hours With Bendt Distilling Co. In the Midst of the COVID-19 Outbreak Bendt Distilling Co. in Lewisville Halts Whiskey Production to Make Hand Sanitizer

18 24

28 Texas RN Takes on NYC Charlie Adams Shares Her Experiences Battling COVID-19 in Hard-Hit New York City

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Culinary Creations

Localâ€™s Choice

Inspired By

24 Local Limelight 28 Giving Back 34 Financial Buzz

Thank you for being our customers & neighbors.

WELCOME BACK!

GOOD TIMES 1.

315 Students Under Stay-At-Home Order Awarded LEF Scholarships The Lewisville ISD Education Foundation annually awards scholarships to outgoing seniors in the district who are pursuing a college degree or vocational training beyond high school. This year, despite the cancellation of the scholarship award ceremony, the Foundation funded nearly $260,000 in scholarships. “We are grateful to the donors who make all of this possible,” says Thomas White, LEF executive director. PHOTOS: PROVIDED BY LEF

1. Cameron Neustupa - Marcus HS - recipient of Ms. Mac Legacy of Love Memorial Scholarship | 2. Camryn Upshaw – Marcus HS - recipient of the Kara Barfknecht Memorial Scholarship | 3. Katherine Spruce - Flower Mound HS - recipient of Flower Mound PTSA scholarship | 4. Sydney Hicke – Marcus High School - recipient of Kristen Webb Memorial Scholarship | 5. Caitlyn Aenis - Marcus High School- recipient of Clint Michael Keown Memorial Scholarship

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

AROUND TOWN

WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY TEACHER OFFERS SIDEWALK MATH LESSONS DURING COVID-19 OUTBREAK When Wellington Elementary teacher Heather Butler realized one of her students was having trouble connecting to his Webex math class meeting, she decided to bring class to him. “I was impressed with Sam’s effort to try to join the class meeting, but the technology just wasn’t cooperating,” Heather says. Sam’s mother, Samantha, says Heather's actions illustrate the kind of teacher and person she is. “Mrs. Butler always provides extra math skills to Sam, but this was way above the call of duty,”

LESLIE DAVENPORT APPOINTED NEW PRINCIPAL OF BRIARHILL MIDDLE SCHOOL

Samantha says. “We are so grateful for her!”

MEDICAL CITY HEALTHCARE HOSPITALS NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FOR SAFETY

Lewisville ISD has announced the appointment

Eleven Medical City Healthcare hospitals have

of Leslie Davenport as the new principal of Briarhill

been awarded an ‘A’ in the spring 2020 Leapfrog

Middle School.

Hospital Safety Grade, more than any North

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to come

Texas hospital system.

back to Briarhill,” Leslie says. “It is an honor to be

Medical City Alliance, Medical City Arlington,

selected as principal for such a great learning com-

Medical City Dallas, Medical City Denton,

munity, and to follow someone like Mr. Mattingly. I

Medical City Fort Worth, Medical City Frisco,

can’t wait to get started!”

Medical

City

Las

Colinas,

Medical

City

Leslie, who was an assistant principal at Briarhill

Lewisville, Medical City McKinney, Medical City

from 2016-2019, returns to the school after spend-

North Hills and Medical City Plano are being rec-

ing the 2019-2020 school year as an assistant prin-

ognized for protecting patients from harm and

cipal at Hebron High School.

providing safer healthcare.

2020 INDEPENDENCE FEST CANCELED

“From providing lifesaving and life-improving surgeries to responding to the unique challenges

Because of the uncertainty of how the COVID-

of COVID-19, patient safety is always our top

19 pandemic will affect large festivals and the

priority,” says Erol Akdamar, FACHE, president

estimated financial impact it will have on the town,

of Medical City Healthcare. “These superior

Flower Mound officials have canceled the 2020

safety ratings reflect our patient promise across

Independence Fest celebration.

the Medical City Healthcare system of hospitals

By canceling the event in April, the Town was able to save more than $220,000, not includ-

to providing excellence always in every action, every patient, every time.”

ing staff overtime. The Town is estimated to

“As the nation copes with a challenging pan-

lose roughly $2.8 million in revenue due to the

demic, our gratitude extends to hospital leadership

effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and has been

and health care workers everywhere for their tre-

forced to take measures to balance the antici-

mendous dedication,” says Leah Binder, president

pated financial loss.

and CEO of The Leapfrog Group.

“We do have some good news, the Town was able to re-book this year’s headliner, the Josh Abbott Band for 2021 without penalty and all of our Independence Fest suppliers, vendors and musical acts have been

very understanding and flexible,” says Parks and

Would you like to get in touch with us? We

Recreation Director Chuck Jennings. “We look for-

would love to hear from you! Contact us at

ward to holding the biggest and best Independence

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers using the Get

Fest Flower Mound has ever seen in 2021.”

In Touch link and let us know what you think.

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

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CULINARY CREATIONS

steak 101 CHEF GARTH BLACKBURN OFFERS ADVICE FOR GRILLING THE PERFECT FATHER'S DAY MEAL

ARTICLE STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

‘TIS THE SEASON TO FIRE UP THE GRILL. Chef Garth Blackburn of Uptown Farmhouse offers some advice this month on how to grill the perfect steak for Father’s Day. “The best way to grill a steak is to start with a high-heat sear on both sides,” he says. “Then move to a cooler spot on the grill or even the oven to slowly finish. Also,

perfectly grilled steak

let your steak come to room temp to make sure it’s cooked more evenly. This is even more important for thick-cut steaks.”

INGREDIENTS:

Garth says don’t depend on touch, as some would advise, to determine doneness.

+ 1.5-inch steak, your favorite cut, brought to

“Use an instant-read food thermometer probe or even a plug-in, making sure the

room temperature for one hour if possible

probe is in the center and as far into the steak as possible – any exposed metal can

+ Kosher salt

cause a false high reading.”

+ Fresh cracked pepper

For a different twist, Garth suggests putting a cast-iron griddle or skillet onto the grill

+ Vegetable, grapeseed or canola oil

while preheating and sear the steaks on it. “The hot metal will hold its heat and sear better

+ Butter, room temperature

than the open grates on the grill. Just make sure to reheat before doing the next batch.”

+ Probe thermometer – instant read or wired

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

INSTRUCTIONS:

9. Allow ambient grill temperature to be

Medium Well 145-150 degrees

1. Heat grill on high (optionally with cast iron

about 300 degrees.

Well Done NO!

griddle or skillet)

10. Put in probe thermometer in center of

2. Liberally season steaks with salt and pepper

one steak if not using an instant-read.

14. Remove steaks, top with softened butter

3. Rub steaks with oil (optionally add oil to

11. Place tray with steaks on grill in the area

and rest for at least five – eight minutes.

cast iron)

where the burner is off.

4. Sear for two-three minutes per side.

12. Close lid on grill and check occasion-

Chef Garth Blackburn and his partner Amy

If searing on grill grates, turn steaks 90

ally if using an instant-read thermometer.

Kushnir are creators of Uptown Farmhouse,

degrees halfway through each side. Do in

13. Flip occasionally to ensure even doneness.

a unique local pop-up dinner experience. For

batches if necessary for cast-iron approach.

more information about Uptown Farmhouse,

5. Remove steaks to a foil lined sheet tray.

DONENESS:

visit UptownFarmhouse.com, follow @up-

6. Turn down grill heat.

Medium Rare 128-132 degrees

townfarmhouse on Facebook and Instagram and

8. Turn off one side of grill.

Medium 135 - 140 degrees

email Amy at amy@uptownfarmhouse.com. CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOWN OF FLOWER MOUND, ILLUSTRATIVE DEPICTIONS PHOTOGRAPHY, A.J.

support local!

LOPEZ, CANDID MEMORIES, CONTRIBUTED

AREA BUSINESSES & ORGANIZATIONS SHINE IN WAKE OF CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

MANY LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS REACHED OUT TO OTHERS DURING THE DEVASTATING CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK. Now, more than ever, it’s important to return the favor and lend support to them. This month we continue to spotlight some of our local businessmen and women who have gone above and

T LOCAL BU SIN

US P P O R T LOCAL!

UPPORT LOCA S S L

ORT

LOCAL B US

S ES

POR

SUPPORT LOCA LS

beyond to serve their customers and community.

LAKESIDE EYE CARE DR. SEBASTIAN MIRABAL

Lakeside Eye Care has remained open throughout the coronavirus crisis – creatively serving patients in need. With the use of telemedicine, Dr. Sebastian Mirabal and his staff have been able to communicate and help many patients, both new and established, by utilizing smart phones to send pictures

and do video conferencing. Those patients who needed to be seen in person were accommodated with private appointment times. The office also has been offering direct home shipping on medications, contacts and glasses so that patients can remain at home. "Many patients have been relieved to be treated from the comfort of their own home, it has been a different way to practice, but I am thankful and grateful to be there for those that need care," says Dr. Mirabal. "I love being able to still be there for my patients during these times. We will get through this!" For more information about Lakeside Eye Care, visit lakesideeyecaretx.com. 14

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

DATCU CREDIT UNION As an essential business, DATCU Credit Union never stopped serving its customers during the COVID-19 outbreak. “We have been able to do transactions in our drive-through lanes or through our online channels,” says Vice President of

MEDICAL CITY LEWISVILLE MINI GROCERY STORE

Marketing Susan Passariello. “We continue to work on an individual case-by-case basis to evaluate and find the solutions to best meet the needs of our individual members.” Susan says though the way in which business was conducted

Medical City Lewisville is one of seven Medical City Healthcare hospitals to have opened mini grocery stores to support staff during the COVID-19 crisis. The onsite grocery services were offered to all hospital workers to provide essential grocery items at cost.

changed, services never were interrupted. “We are all in this together as a community, and we all are doing the best we can,” she says. “Our members have been very understanding.” For more information about DATCU, visit datcu.org.

The goal of the program was to safely and conveniently reduce trips to the store for essential food items. Grocery items offered included fresh produce, bread, meat and dairy products. Staff members could buy items a-la-cart or in combination box orders to be picked up after their shift. “Having this market in our hospital has meant the most to me because it really shows how much this company cares for me in a way that makes me feel loved,” says Holli Thornhill, RN, Medical City Lewisville. “And in a way, then I can translate that into love for my family."

MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY FLOWER MOUND

DATCU Credit Union

Midwestern State University Flower Mound has been busy training the next generation of healthcare heroes during the

Midwestern State University Flower Mound

coronavirus outbreak. “A large portion of MSU’s enrollment at Flower Mound are in nursing and respiratory care,” says MSU Senior Associate Director Rachel Bagley. In addition, MSU’s Assistant Wide Receiver Football Coach Alex Charlton, a registered nurse, joined the healthcare frontlines when MSU transitioned to online classes. He served at New York’s Mount Sinai hospital. “MSU is very proud of Charlton’s bravery,” says Rachel. When the university transitioned to online/remote learning, MSU’s Respiratory Care Program had two new ventilators sitting idle, Rachel says. “MSU saw this as a great opportunity to help out our community and healthcare workers. Those ventilators are now on loan to a local hospital,” she says, adding that MSU also donated N95 masks, surgical masks, isolation gowns and bacterial filters.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER FOR DENTON COUNTY As the community hunkered down and sheltered in place, child advocates reminded us that not every home is a safe place. At

how can you help our local businesses?

Pick it up! Many local businesses continue to offer curbside pick-up services. Take advantage of this convenient way to support local.

the first sign of the national pandemic, the Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County took swift action to continue to support its young clients. “As an agency, we believe the best way to conduct therapy is in person, but we have had to shift quickly to tele-mental health options to continue to see clients,” says CACDC Director of Development Amy Ferdinando.

Shout them out! Continue to tout local businesses on social media. Not only does this draw attention to businesses, it helps friends stay in the know.

Because of the shelter-in-place orders, CACDC had to postpone indefinitely its major fundraising event, the Champions for Children Gala. The gala provides critical funding for the organization. However, Amy says the community stepped up to lend support. “This wonderful, local family pledged to give us up to $175,000 if we raised that much during the Gala Fund-A-Need. Since we

Think small! Consider buying from small businesses. Need coffee? Buy a bag from a local coffee shop. Need honey? Contact a local beekeeper. Looking for soap? Visit a local artisan’s site.

are postponing the gala until 2021, they have graciously agreed to still give us the gift,” she says. “We are working hard to contact other donors and foundations to help meet the challenge. Also,

Tip generously! If you are able to tip a greater amount, continue to do so.

Stay home – if you’re sick! Feeling under the weather? As the world slowly begins to open up again, don’t go out if you don’t feel well!

SUPPORT LOCA S LS ES

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

T R O P P SU LOCAL!

LOCAL B US

LOCAL BU SIN

UPPORT LOCA S S L

Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County

ORT

P UP

ORT

Visit cacdc.org to make a donation.

by purchasing essential items for our families.”

our community has shown its support by wanting to volunteer and

Epic Gelato & Craft Coffee

Rush Bowls April through November

Lakeside Donuts Menaâ€™s Tex-Mex

Mio Nonno Trattoria

The Tavern at Lakeside

Craft Pies Pizza Co.

Tired of cooking? Check out these options for pickup or delivery at lakesidedfw.com/take-out During this outbreak, the pickup/delivery of alcoholic beverages from restaurants is allowed (with food orders).

Hanaya, Starbucks, Moviehouse & Eatery, and Milwaukee Joeâ€™s have closed temporarily due to the coronavirus.

2314 Lakeside Pkwy. in Flower Mound www.lakesidedfw.com/take-out

INSPIRED BY

HOMETOWN HEROES

LOCAL INDIVIDUALS GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR THEIR COMMUNITY

FRED ROGERS ONCE SAID, “WHEN I WAS A BOY, AND I WOULD SEE SCARY THINGS IN THE NEWS,

MY MOTHER WOULD SAY TO ME, ‘LOOK FOR THE HELPERS. YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND PEOPLE WHO ARE HELPING.’”

This past spring was unlike any other for our community and others around the world. As most residents

ARTICLE STEPHANIE HASBROUCK

PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS JUDD PHOTOGRAPHY, ELIZABETH HAAS, CONTRIBUTED

anxiously sheltered in place separated from the outside world, many emerged to fill essential needs and quell fears. We are thankful for these heroic helpers.

monica sharp When the coronavirus hit, residents flocked to stores for essential supplies, and grocery store employees like Monica Sharp became frontline heroes. HOW HAVE YOU CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK? “As a grocery store, we provide food and household goods to our Flower Mound community, but during the COVID-19 outbreak, we have seen our role expand even more. I am really proud of our store team. They have served guests, despite very long hours and difficult circumstances.” WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS TIME? “Our goal is always to help out when we are needed the most. We’ve done some fun things too, like giving away flowers to those front-line workers in the healthcare community. It is our goal to help out the community when we are needed most.” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP OUT IN THEIR COMMUNITY? “A good way for the community to be involved is to help non-profit organizations such as Lovepacs, CCA and the local food banks that work to address food insecurity.” 18

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

STORE DIRECTOR FLOWER MOUND MARKET STREET

Dr. Sean Fleming has been Emergency Department

psychiatric issues and the abused. COVID-19 is another

Medical Director at Texas Health Flower Mound since 2012

example when we run to the person in need while others

and Medical Director for the Town of Flower Mound Fire

run away. The first responders and nursing staff working

Department since 2014. He has seen first-hand the devas-

alongside have the same servant mentality.”

tation caused by the COVID-19 virus. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS HOW HAVE YOU CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

WHO ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP OUT IN

DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK?

THEIR COMMUNITY?

“Since we were not one of the first areas to be directly

“If you want to go DO something, donate blood if you

impacted, we had more time for preparation. This included

can, check on the elderly and make the trip to the grocery

countless meetings, tracking down Personal Protective

store for them so they don’t have to, or help with a charity

Equipment (PPE), researching methods to prolong the

that is helping the less fortunate that have lost their jobs.

viability of the PPE, along with learning about the disease

Remember, we are all in this together.”

and treatment options.” WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS TIME?

“If you want to go

“Emergency Medicine has a history of caring for those that many try and avoid: the poor, the homeless, those with

DO something,

d r. s e a n f l e m i n g

donate blood if you can, check on the elderly and make the trip to the grocer y store for them so they don’t h a v e t o .”

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT MEDICAL DIRECTOR TEXAS HEALTH PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL FLOWER MOUND CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

judge andy eads DENTON COUNTY JUDGE As the Denton County Judge, Andy Eads is responsible for issuing disaster declarations and executive orders during emergencies. HOW HAVE YOU CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK? “I worked closely with the Commissioners Court and a team of staff members, including Chief Jody Gonzalez of Emergency Services, Dr. Matt Richardson with our Public Health Department, Director of Administration Shannon Joski and Director of Community Relations Dawn Cobb to outline a plan of action for how we would address public health and safety issues. We worked closely with our city and school leaders throughout the pandemic to keep them informed, as well as receive their input. I also coordinated with area county judges, our local state delegation and others to ensure we have the public’s safety at the forefront of our actions in Denton County.” WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS TIME? “My role in county government and on the Denton County Commissioners Court is to be a servant leader, along with my fellow court members, in providing services to our residents. Serving others is why I became a Commissioner and, later, a County Judge, in the first place.” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP OUT IN THEIR COMMUNITY? “My first suggestion would be to check in on your neighbors. Secondly, I ask that everyone support their local businesses in any way that they can. They have taken a hard hit with this pandemic, and they need all of us helping them to recover and regain their footing. And, lastly, volunteer if you can. If you are unsure of where to volunteer, please go to our website dentoncounty.gov and click on the Volunteer link.” 20

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

Nine-year-old Brystol Williams of Lake Dallas is proof that one is never too young to make a large impact.

have the food they needed. I know that parents have lost jobs during this time, and the students often need the meals at school. So I wanted to do my part to make

HOW HAVE YOU CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMMU-

sure that I could help.”

NITY DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK? “I have started a ‘Spread Cheer Not Fear’ campaign

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS

during the COVID-19 crisis. I was very concerned about

WHO ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP OUT IN

my friends at school that might have a hard time getting

THEIR COMMUNITY?

groceries and food since we wouldn't be in school. So my

“The advice I would give others during this time would

mom and I designed a shirt with our slogan and sold them

be to make sure you are doing your part to help those

through Facebook. All of the profits from the shirts were

in need. To check on your friends and your neighbors to

used to buy the food.”

make sure they are OK. Sometimes people won't reach out for help unless you ask. So let’s all do our part to ask. ”

WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS TIME? “I wanted to help others during this time because I was so worried about some kids not being able to

“Sometimes people won’ t reach out for help unless you ask . So l e t ’s a l l d o o u r p a r t t o a s k .”

brystol williams CREATOR OF SPREAD CHEER NOT FEAR CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

beth ann beckmann and hollie wilson SOCIAL WORKERS FOR LEWISVILLE ISD Lewisville ISD Social Workers Beth Ann Beckmann and Hollie Wilson have been on the frontline helping Lewisville ISD families during the COVID-19 crisis. HOW HAVE YOU CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK? “As social workers, we have collaborated with a team of professionals and community stakeholders to identify risk and protective factors of our families. Additionally, we have helped identify gaps in services and advocated for the needs of our families from our community and faith-based partnerships. Currently, our primary focus is to establish resources and connection to community partners to fulfill our student and families basic needs.” WHY DID YOU FEEL IT WAS IMPORTANT TO HELP OTHERS DURING THIS TIME? “Oftentimes when there is a crisis, people may lose sight of their individual strengths and abilities. They may be impacted by external influences that are beyond their control, or simply feel overwhelmed with the current situation. Walking alongside others as they attempt to stabilize themselves and their families allows them an opportunity to feel supported during a very uncertain time. We also feel the importance of helping others during this time as we know that our community has a wealth of resources and support and we want to ensure our families are connected to those valuable services.” WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HELP OUT IN THEIR COMMUNITY? “We love that people want to help and support; we are so blessed to live in a community where so many give so freely to others. People may contact local resources such as CCA, Salvation Army, Lovepacs, Mission Moms, North Texas Food Bank, Sparrow Collective, Next Steps Center, or their local chamber. Additionally, we have occasional volunteer needs through LISD, which may be found at LISD.net/covid19volunteer.” 22

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BLACKALL PHOTOGRAPHY

24 HOURS WITH BENDT DISTILLING CO. 24

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

THIS SPRING BENDT DISTILLING CO. DID SOMETHING IT HASN’T DONE BEFORE. It stopped producing whiskey, including its award-winning BENDT No. 5 whiskey. Instead, the company focused all of its mechanics and manpower on producing hand sanitizer for first responders and the community. As of press time, Bendt Distilling Co. had distributed more than 60,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to individuals, municipalities, first responder units, hospitals and assisted living facilities. In April, we asked Bendt Co-Founder Natasha DeHart to share a typical day at the distilling company in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

MORNING:

“We’ve always started our days early, but are now beginning shifts

hours earlier in response to the need for hand sanitizer,” Natasha says. “Our first-shift team arrives around 3:30 a.m. and is working on fermentation and distillation. Around 5 a.m., we begin bottling and packaging the hand sanitizer.” “We’ve temporarily stopped making all whiskey, including BENDT No. 5 American Blended Whiskey, and are making thousands of gallons of hand sanitizer every week,” Natasha says. “In order to help supply local first responders, we are making high-proof ethanol around the clock and have had to split our team into two shifts – both to keep production running constantly and to keep contact within

IN THE MIDST OF THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK BENDT DISTILLING CO. IN LEWISVILLE HALTS WHISKEY PRODUCTION TO MAKE HAND SANITIZER

the team to a minimum.”

AFTERNOON/EVENING:

“Our second shift team continues to work on ethanol production, but

also on formulating the finished batches into hand sanitizer and continuing to bottle after a handover from the first shift,” Natasha says. “This team has shifted their schedule to later in the day, adjusting to work longer hours, late into the evenings and on weekends with the goal to make as much high-proof ethanol as possible for hand sanitizer. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) “This team generally wraps up late at night. Some nights, this is 8 p.m.; others midnight or later. Although the occasional late night was not out of the question before, it’s the norm now,” Natasha says. “Everyone on our team works long days, seven days a week – all with the common goal to help the community and provide support during this difficult period.”

ABOUT BENDT DISTILLING CO.

When not responding to a worldwide pandemic, Bendt produces

BENDT No. 5 American Blended Whiskey, which combines bourbon, rye, malt, wheat and light whiskeys to create a smooth, balanced blend with a well-rounded flavor profile. “We see American Blended Whiskey as the next frontier in the craft whiskey space,” Natasha says. “With BENDT No. 5, we’ve created the first-ever blend of five beautiful and individually distinct small-batch Texas whiskeys distilled, aged individually and blended together all under one roof at our distillery in Lewisville, Texas.” BENDT No. 5 recently received a gold medal award in the American Distilling Institute’s 2020 Judging of Craft Spirits. For more information, visit bendtdistillingco.com.

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

During These Challenging Times....

Weâ€™re All In This Together

Glen McKenzie President/CEO

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

GIVING BACK

TEXAS R N TA K E S O N N YC

WHILE THE WORLD WATCHED IN HORROR AS THE CORONAVIRUS RAVAGED NEW YORK CITY THIS SPRING, REGISTERED NURSE CHARLIE ADAMS PACKED HER BAGS AND HEADED THERE TO HELP. Adams, who is Clinical Manager at Lone Star Endoscopy in Keller, said the trip was a leap of faith. “The Lord led me to do it,” she says. “I go where I’m needed.” As of press time, New York City had recorded more than 184,000 Covid 19 cases with nearly 15,000 deaths related to the illness. Charlie spent three weeks as a medical/surgical nurse at Elmhurst Hospital, which was inundated with patients. She began the Facebook Page “TX RN Takes on NYC” to share a daily journal of her experiences, which, she says, were beyond what she imagined. That Facebook page has garnered more than 4,600 followers. The following are excerpts from Charlie’s Facebook journal. MARCH 29, 8:08 P.M. For those of you that don’t know, I leave tomorrow with four of my bad ass co-workers to NY. We are joining the COVID-19 emergency response team for 3 weeks. I will be posting daily to keep all of you in the loop. Enjoy the ride with me.... this is going to be one heck of a roller coaster. MARCH 31, 4:47 P.M. Today is day 2 in NYC and I’m getting settled in as much as possible. Hotel is nice, but that’s about it… It’s sad to see this beautiful city in the state that it’s in now. The streets are full of military personnel, police, and people wearing masks. They are building pop-up clinics all over the city to house the overwhelming number of sick patients. The hospitals are at their breaking point. Yesterday the line was 2 hours long just to get into an ER. The morgues are overflowing and they have run out of body bags. They have brought in refrigerated 18 wheelers and are filling them with COVID victims wrapped in sheets. I haven’t even started my assignment and my heart is already breaking for the people of NYC. Please pray for the medical personnel and the citizens that have already fallen victim to this awful virus. Looking forward to my real 1st day! APRIL 1, 7:43 P.M. Day 3: I have been assigned to my hospital. 28

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

CHARLIE ADAMS SHARES HER EXPERIENCES BATTLING COVID-19 IN HARD-HIT NEW YORK CITY

I must clarify, they call it Med- Surg but it’s full of ICU patients. They usually have a 29-bed ICU and they currently have 64 patients and planning on turning PACU into a 34 bed unit tomorrow. This is not including the patients on Med- Surg that should be in ICU. They have started placing a DNR/DNI on patients without consent. There is no time for consent! It’s not an understatement to say the majority, if not all, of the patient population has COVID. The number of codes being paged overhead and patients not making it hour by hour, is something out of a nurse’s nightmare. I knew it was bad when part of my orientation was about how to place a body in a body bag. I am witnessing firsthand that the nurses are being worked to the bone. But they keep going. They have pressure ulcers on their faces from N95 masks and goggles. But they keep going. PPE is scarce. But they keep going. Am I hearing anyone complain or give up? NO! I hear how grateful they are that we are here to help. Don’t get me wrong - nurses are leaving - but there are many reminding me that I’m on a mission. I am here to be our Lord’s Servant and help in any way I can for the patients and the staff. Thank you for all the blessings and prayers. Keep them coming! APRIL 3, 7:15 P.M. Day 5: Welp ... today I was just grinding. Doing what I could and helping where I can! Not much to report so I want to take this time to say Thank You! I’m blown away with the prayers and support! Who knew little ole me could get such a following! I am definitely humbled and feeling the love. So THANK YOU! APRIL 5, 7 P.M. Day 7: NYC, I think you have peaked. I pray you have peaked! I don’t have the words to describe how hard today was. ARTICLE STEPHANIE HASBROUCK PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

It’s not right, when you have to hold a patient’s hand while they are being intubated.

CONTINUED >

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GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

It’s not right, that they are alone, without family by their side.

THEN... I come back to my hotel and have a package full of sweet

It’s not right, that these young patients are passing away and

cards and goodies!! I could NOT have done this journey without the

leaving their families.

support of my people at home, and it makes me so comforted to

For 12 hours today, it was one right after another.

know they are right beside me every single day!

These are things nurses during this time will never forget. I will never forget! If nurses gave up... if I gave up...

APRIL 8, 8:25 P.M. Day 10: … I’m definitely feeling the load of all of this virus. The deaths, the

WHO would hold their hand?

codes, the intubations, the discharges, the families, fellow nurses,

So many nurses go home daily... I want to give up so badly but I know

the doctors working tirelessly: we are feeling it ALL.

I need to stay! As long as I can... I will stay... God knows his plan for me!

I can’t tell you how many codes I heard paged today, and there

The Lord blessed me with these thoughts so I’ll just “keep running”!

were a lot of intubations, BUT- the number of COVID admits have decreased dramatically so that’s a plus!

APRIL 6, 8:06 P.M. Day 8: BIGGEST NEWS: We discharged two people home today! DISCHARGED!! We clapped and cheered as they walked out! AHHHH! I can’t even tell you how happy it made every nurse on that floor. Lots of happy tears! And if that wasn’t enough - we blasted a prayer over the intercom to the entire floor. Truly a powerful moment! It’s so nice that GOD knows exactly what you need at the exact time!

APRIL 10, 8:58 A.M. Day Whatever - (Day 12): Exhausted is an understatement. The emotional exhaustion is just as bad - if not worse. Just as the news predicted, and you have seen from other nurses here in NYC, a lot of our patients are passing away. I have reported it before, but I think it’s finally catching up to me! It’s very frustrating to see the same treatment with the same results. Can anyone just try something different already!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

“I hope we all transition into our new normal r e m e m b e r i n g t h e t h i n g s t h a t t r u l y m a t t e r.” On top of that, there doesn’t seem to be any comfort measures

I’m brought to tears thinking about how grateful I am that the

for these patients. These patients are fully awake and scared!! We

Lord trusted me with this mission. Even though, it was one of

are trying our best to keep them comforted in probably the scari-

the hardest journeys I have ever been on, (I’ve been on a lot) I

est time of their life!

feel so blessed with the beautiful souls I have met, the conversa-

As I write this, I’m headed back to the hospital and praying for

tions I have had, and the hands I’ve held along the way …

miracles! I’m praying to stay focused and do what I can to be there for my patients.

APRIL 15, 4:24 P.M.

Jesus take the wheel!!

Flying home today gives me time with my own thoughts. I keep picturing my patients that have passed, replaying the

APRIL 11, 7:19 A.M.

horrible situation myself and other healthcare workers found our-

Day 13:

selves in, and all the things that I wish would have went differently.

… Maybe it’s in light of Easter Weekend, but I don’t have too much to report - just new prayers. I’m praying differently these days. I’m now praying for protocol

… I commend the nurses for consistently fight and advocating for their patients. And let me tell you, those NY nurses know how to fight!!

changes on how we treat Covid patients.

I think about all the family members that had to say goodbye

We know that what we are doing is NOT working.

on speaker phone or if lucky over face time. That is not a proper

So, today I pray the Lord gives us clarity and guides us with new

goodbye. My heart breaks for all the patients and the family

treatment plans. Plans we can share with others. I pray that in these plans, comes better comfort measures for our patients.

members that are victim to this horrific situation. My heart breaks for the nurses that call that their everyday life. I hope the hospital systems really put some effort into their employees mental health, because they need it desperately. No one will

APRIL 12, 7:03 P.M.

come out of this the same.

Day 14: Today was a day!

APRIL 18, 8:41 A.M.

Patients are very hypoxic and there for confused. Patients are

Blessings I will never take for granted again...

just as scared and crazy as we are ... spit and pee on the nurses,

+ Holding Ben’s hand

are the norms these days. HOWEVER, no intubations or codes, so

+ Cuddles from my fur babies

I call that a win!!

+ My own bed!

Missing my family today! Face timing for Easter is just not the

+ A hot meal

same. But I’ve loved every minute!

+ The power of prayer from family, friends and people who

The patients don’t have their family with them either, so I don’t

don’t know me.

have any right to complain. We are having Easter together! HE

+ Walking my dog

rose for ALL of us!

+ Happy hours with my work fam + Family dinners

APRIL 14, 8:26 A.M.

+ Late night laughs and dancing in the kitchen with my tribe

Day 16:

+ Going to church

It’s bitter sweet to say, today will be my last day.

+ Hugs! All the hugs!!

I’m mentally, emotionally, and physically spent. I need rest and I need to see my family. I will be so sad to say goodbye to my B5 family at Elmhurst and Krucial girls! I’m terrible with goodbyes! I don’t even want

There has been a lot of tragedy that has come out of COVID-19 but there is always silver lining to be found. I hope we all transition into our new normal remembering the things that truly matter.

to think about it. I have such mixed feelings about leaving. I feel like I’m letting

To read Charlie’s entire Facebook journal of her experienc-

people down for leaving, but I’m not sure I would be at my best for

patients and coworkers in the exhausted state I’m in.

NYC-105510671105283/.

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

New

York,

visit

facebook.com/TX-RN-Takes-On-

CityLifestyle.com/CrossTimbers 33

FINANCIAL BUZZ

Financial Decisions In Turbulent Times

ARTICLE JEFFERY PRICE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED

1. DURING THIS PERIOD OF UNPRECEDENTED

payment deferrals and refunds on late fees through its

VOLATILITY AND UNCERTAINTY, WHAT SHOULD I

Client Assistance Program. Ask your financial advisor

BE DOING WITH MY PORTFOLIO?

or CPA for resources relating to the CARES Act. Some

We believe that especially during uncertain times, it is important to seek the advice and guidance of profession-

additional helpful resources can be found directly on the SBA’s website: sba.gov.

als. As your advisor proactively reaches out to you during this period, ask them if your portfolio is built with your

3. IF MY FAMILY OR I HAVE BEEN PERSONALLY

risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals in mind. Ensure

IMPACTED BY COVID-19 AND ARE FINANCIALLY

that the long-term strategy you have in place is still

STRESSED, WHAT PROVISIONS HAVE BEEN

appropriate, then hold the course.

MADE FOR US?

2. AS A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER, WHERE CAN I

who have experienced health or economic difficulty due to

TURN IF MY BUSINESS HAS SUFFERED ECONOMIC

COVID-19. Eligible taxpayers are receiving up to $1,200 ($2,400

LOSS DUE TO COVID-19?

for married filing jointly), plus $500 for each qualifying child.

The CARES Act made several provisions for individuals

The Federal Government and Small Business

Tax-favored withdrawals and loans from personal and corpo-

Administration (SBA) have worked closely to make fund-

rate retirement plans are also available. Be sure to consult with

ing available to support the backbone of our economy.

your financial advisor and CPA. Also ask your bank about what

In addition to processing loan applications in support

additional assistance they might offer. Bank of America’s Client

of the Paycheck Protection Program, Bank of America

Assistance Program offers additional support to consumer and

is offering support to small business clients through

small business clients who are impacted by coronavirus.

JEFFERY PRICE, MANAGING DIRECTOR AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISER AT MERRILL LYNCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT PRICE & ASSOCIATES OFFERS VALUABLE FINANCIAL ADVICE

Cross Timbers Lifestyle | June 2020

No Harm Shall Overcome You (Psalm-91)

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