









Dr. Jason Tinley, MD is a minimally invasive, board certified, orthopedic spine surgeon. He specializes in spine surgery, including spinal stenosis, cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy, minimally invasive cervical and lumbar spine surgery, cervical artificial disc replacement, and microdiscectomy.
Dr. Jason C. Tinley is committed to excellence by pledging to provide the highest quality spine care possible. Along with the treatment of immediate or chronic problems, he strives to integrate the doctrine of prevention in all treatment plans with the goal of alleviating possible future difficulties. Dr. Tinley has become a leader in instruction and research in disc replacement and has a passion for optimizing spine surgery outcomes through development and utilization of new techniques, research and materials.
“Dr Tinley is a leader in the field of spinal surgery. His technique is excellent, but he does not rush to pursue surgery. Very good at explaining your condition and allowing you to decide a course of treatment.”
—RANDALL W.“My experience with DFW Center for Spinal Disorders was excellent. Dr. Tinley and his staff are attentive and compassionate. My surgery went better than I could have ever expected, and I am now pain free!”
—BARBARA K.Pain Management • Sports Medicine • General Surgery
Spine Surgery • Orthopedic Surgery • Neurosurgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery • Total Joint Surgery
Foot & Ankle Surgery • Hand Surgery
Gynecological Surgery • Plastic Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons and the medical staff at Eminent Medical Center are excited to offer Zimmer Biomet’s ROSA Knee System, which helps surgeons personalize surgical procedures for their patients.
Our Top Lawyers Issue is back for 2022. Inside you’ll fid the best of the best when it comes to local attorneys. These exceptional legal professionals offer a depth of knowledge in areas from civil to criminal law and everything in between.
It’s no surprise that local criminal lawyer Deandra Grant makes the list. Deandra’s focus on the defense of intoxication-related crimes led her to become one of the nation’s foremost experts on the subject. In addition to speaking to her peers all over the country on DWI law, she’s one of the lawyers tasked with annually updating The Texas DWI Manual, a go-to guide for lawyers defending DWI cases.
If that weren’t enough of a challenge, after earning much success in the courtroom, Deandra went back to school and graduated with a Masters in Pharmaceutical Science with a concentration in forensic science and a Graduate Certifiate in Forensic Toxicology. She also completed the American Chemical Society’s Forensic Lawyer-Scientist program at Axion Labs in Chicago. Ths extensive education and training provided the SMU law alum with a wealth of specialized knowledge that has earned Deandra the moniker “ The Lawyer Lawyers Call.”
On page 8, we sat down with Deandra to learn more about her evolution as an assistant district attorney to a sought-after criminal lawyer other lawyers call for help with difficult forensic-heavy cases.
Next, we turn our attention to Chip and Joanna Gaines, a couple who’ve also made quite a name for themselves. Since the launch of their show Fixer Upper in 2013, the duo have revitalized the once sedate town of Waco,Texas, and turned it into a bustling, must-visit destination that millions of their devotees visit yearly for a chance to sample the gracious, bucolic lifestyle cultivated by the pair.
Check out page 24 to learn how the photogenic couple met and how they ended up heading an entire network devoted exclusively to their personally curated content.
Of course, there’s more. Get reading!
Be well!
MARCH/APRIL
PRESIDENT & CEO SAM HOUSTON
VICE PRESIDENT & CFO
SPRING HOUSTON
EDITOR, FEATURE WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA SONDRA BARR
ART DIRECTOR
VANESSA FRYER
ACCOUNTS MANAGER
JENNIFER BEAVERS
WEBSITE
LYDIA ROGERS
ADVERTISING & SALES
TEXAS: Denton County, Dallas County, Collin County
TEXAS & OKLAHOMA: Texoma Area
WRITE TO US:
Tell us who you would like to see featured on the cover, or what subjects you would like covered in upcoming editions of LIVING WELL MAGAZINE at info@livingwellmag.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS & CUSTOMER INQUIRIES
Houstons of Dallas Publishing, Inc. 102 E. Broadway, #901 Prosper, TX 75078
www.LivingWellmag.com
Phone: (214) 507-1000 Fax: (855) 248-2132
LIVING WELL MAGAZINE is a source for quality educational articles on living a healthy, vibrant life. Our focus is on connecting our readers with the latest information on a host of topics relevant to their evolving life. From cutting edge medical news and procedures to top-tier financial, legal and lifestyle information. Connecting readers to leading medical and business professionals in their community in Texas and Oklahoma.
All advertisements in this Magazine are placed by third parties. We do not control or endorse either the advertisements or their content. Further, we do not manufacture, sell, distribute or provide any of the goods or services advertised herein. We hereby expressly disclaim any liability with respect to information or goods and services contained herein. We further disclaim any and all warranties or representations, express or implied, with respect to such information, goods or services, including any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular
They depend on you like you depend on your heart.
They depend on you like you depend on your heart.
Advanced heart care you can count on.
Advanced heart care you can count on.
When it comes to your heart, it’s so important to have the right care. Heart and vascular specialists on the medical staff at Texas Health hospitals offer a broad range of advanced care tailored to each and every heart. From general heart health and wellness to advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive therapies and innovative procedures, we’re your dedicated partner in heart health. And, as always, we have protocols in place designed around your safety.
When it comes to your heart, it’s so important to have the right care. Heart and vascular specialists on the medical staff at Texas Health hospitals offer a broad range of advanced care tailored to each and every heart. From general heart health and wellness to advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive therapies and innovative procedures, we’re your dedicated partner in heart health. And, as always, we have protocols in place designed around your safety.
Texas Health is right there with you.
Texas Health is right there with you.
Find a heart and vascular specialist or take our heart health assessment at TexasHealth.org/Heart.
Find a heart and vascular specialist or take our heart health assessment at TexasHealth.org/Heart.
Dr. Courtney is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon located in Plano, Texas. A Louisiana native, he attended Louisiana State University for medical school, and completed residency at Texas A&M followed by a fellowship at the Florida Neck and Back Institute.
SPECIALTIES:
• Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Spine Pain
• Disc Replacement
• Microdiscectomy
• Spinal Fusion
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Steroid Injections
• Physical Therapy
“I
Growing up in Plano, Texas, Deandra Grant never pictured herself at the head of a major law fim as managing partner. “I really wanted to be a vet but didn’t think I could handle seeing animals hurt,” says Grant. Fast forward 30+ years and she found a way to channel her love for animals into a VP role at Living the Doxie Dream Rescue & Sanctuary in Royse City. “I wear a lot of hats: running the law fim, raising money for the dog rescue, pulling dogs out of shelters, taking care of my family. My life is never boring.”
Grant graduated from Plano Senior High School in 1986. She attended Trinity University in San Antonio where she obtained a business degree. She came back to Dallas to attend law school at SMU. “My fist class in law school was Criminal Law. I was hooked. Made the highest grade in the class. I knew what I wanted to do,” says Grant.
She started an internship at the Dallas District Attorney’s Offi, which turned into a job as an Assistant District Attorney. Grant leftthe DA’s Officat the end of 1994. “I liked working as a prosecutor but once I switched to criminal defense there was no going back for me. I knew I’d found my calling.”
In 1994 Grant opened the Law Officeof Deandra M. Grant, a criminal defense fim handling cases throughout the DFW Metroplex. In the mid-2000s Grant started focusing more on the defense of intoxication-related crimes. That involved traveling the country taking courses in breath and blood alcohol testing and fild sobriety tests. The more success she had in defending DWI cases, the more other attorneys wanted to learn from her. “I was asked to present on breath alcohol testing at a legal seminar in 2007 and that opened up a whole new world for me. Suddenly I was being asked to speak all over the country on DWI law, science and trial skills,” says Grant. By 2019 she was presenting at an average of 13 legal seminars per year.
We
are an office full o animal lovers.
The year 2011 brought a new challenge. Grant was invited to help re-write The Texas DWI Manual, which had been out of print for several years after the death of the original author. She and attorney Kimberly GriffiTucker spent three years completely re-writing the book for James Publishing. The fist edition was released in 2013 and it is updated annually. It is considered the go-to guide for lawyers defending DWI cases. “ The book was the biggest challenge of my career. It is really hard to write a book. You never think it’s ready. Updating it each year is defintely a labor of love.”
After years of studying, writing and lecturing in the fild of intoxication, Grant decided to make it offial and go back to school. She was accepted into both the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy and the College of Veterinary Medicine and in 2016 she graduated with a Masters in Pharmaceutical Science with a concentration in forensic science and a Graduate Certifiate in Forensic Toxicology. She also completed the American Chemical Society’s Forensic Lawyer-Scientist program at Axion Labs in Chicago. After earning the designation, she joined the faculty at Axion as an assistant chromatography instructor and teaches four weeks each year. She added “forensic consultant” to her resume and is now retained by other attorneys to assist in their cases where intoxication is an issue. Her tag line is “ The Lawyer Lawyers Call.”
The Law Officeof Deandra M. Grant took a leap in 2018 and became Deandra Grant Law. Grant says overnight she went from a fim with two officeand four staff members to a statewide fim with five officeand nine staffmembers. “ That fist year was a bit crazy. It was a lot of work to grow a law fim that quickly, but we made it work. We have built an amazing team.”
Deandra Grant Law is a fim that defends cases ranging from traffitickets to Capital Murder. Client communication and well-being are priorities she stresses to her team. “Being charged with a crime is a scary experience. We work hard to keep our clients informed along the way and to refer them to treatment providers if we see signs that help is needed.” Grant even created a position called “Client Concierge” which is a dedicated staffmember who spends each day reaching out to clients just to touch base and make sure they are well.
The Deandra Grant Law team in North Texas includes Partner Douglas Huffand Associates Makenzie Zarate, Madisen Pittman and Clark Martin. These attorneys staff the offices inallas, Fort Worth, Denton and Allen.
Douglas Huffjoined the Law Officeof Deandra M. Grant in 2016 and is now a Partner at Deandra Grant Law. An Army veteran, Huffreceived the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal during his service. He later moved to Austin and decided to go to law school. After a stint with the bar education company, Barbri, Huffran his own fim for a few years before joining the Dallas County Public Defender’s Officin 2013. Huffdefends offenses such as Capital Murder, sexual assault allegations, DWI’s and drug cases throughout North Texas. He is the proud “dad” of rescue dog, Athena.
Makenzie Zarate joined Deandra Grant Law in 2020. A Texas native, she attended law school at Texas Tech University and then worked for several years at a criminal defense fim in Ellis County. Her caseload includes felonies, misdemeanors and DWI cases in Dallas, Ellis, Rockwall, Kaufman and counties further east. She is the “mom” of Dachshunds Sammy, Louie and Elvis.
Madisen Pittman began her career at Deandra Grant Law as a law school intern. She joined the fim as an associate after passing the Bar Exam in 2020. A native of Rockwall, Pittman now lives in Denton and runs Deandra Grant Law’s Denton offi. Her caseload includes felonies, misdemeanors and DWI cases in Tarrant, Denton, Collin and Cooke County. She is the proud “mom” of Zoey the Pomeranian.
Clark Martin also began his career as a law school intern at Deandra Grant Law. He joined the fim as an associate in 2021. Clark is a proud Aggie who was born and raised in Dallas and now runs Deandra Grant Law’s Allen offi. He covers dockets in Collin, Denton, Tarrant and Dallas County.
Deandra Grant Law is very involved in dog rescue and supports Living the Doxie Dream Rescue and Sanctuary in Royse City where Deandra Grant serves as Vice President. The law fim website includes photos of “Furry Friends of the Firm” and information regarding the dog rescue. “We are an officfull of animal lovers,” says Grant.
DFW Wound Care Center is a group of wound care specialists in all of the DFW area. They are fellow trained surgeons, and board certified in wound care and reconstructive surgery. All physicians have also completed an intense residency and fellowship in the area of limb salvage, and foot and ankle surgery. When it comes to wound care and limb salvage, DFW Wound Care Center has the knowledge and experience to successfully treat your condition. As a result, patients from all over the country seek to be treated by DFW Wound Care Center.
Whether caused by diabetes, infection or disease, any wound that will not heal can be very serious. If you are experiencing a wound or ulcer that will not properly heal, our wound care center can provide a range of expert treatment options best in each case. We offer non-surgical and surgical treatments for:
Diabetic Wounds & Ulcers
Arterial Ulcers
Infected Wounds
Open Wounds
Pressure Ulcers
Vascular Wounds
Acute Wounds
Non-Healing Wounds
Chronic Wounds
Surgical Wounds
Traumatic Wounds
thedfwfootdoc
PLANO CLINIC
5804 Coit Road, Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75023
LEWISVILLE CLINIC
502 N. Valley Pkwy., #2 Lewisville, TX 75067
IRVING CLINIC
6161 N. State Hwy. 161, Ste. 320 Irving, TX 75038
DESOTO CLINIC
714 N. Hampton Rd. De Soto, TX 75115
Dear Olivia,
We are considering starting our mother on hospice services sometime soon, as her physician thinks that it might be time to keep her at home and prevent any further hospitalizations. She has been frail for some time now and he feels she may need this extra layer of support and care. How do we know when the time is right? Also, are there any supports our family can receive if we need to go out of town to see our grown children while she is on hospice service?
-Difficult decisions
Dear Difficult decisions,
It is often a difficult decision to put a loved one on hospice service, even when we know that may be the best way to provide the appropriate level of care. Skilled hospice care can provide comprehensive, holistic care to both the patient and family when someone is facing a terminal illness or condition.
Starting hospice at the right time is important to ensure that the care team has a chance
to get to know the patient and family and establish the best plan of care possible. The “right time” to transition someone to hospice is different for every family, but two important considerations are whether further aggressive treatment is desired, and if the patient would want to return to the hospital. If the answer to both questions is no, then this is often the right time to choose hospice care.
In terms of travel, one of the best benefits of hospice for families is a service called respite care. This is one of the levels of care we can provide. This allows a patient to stay in an inpatient setting, such as a nursing facility, for up to five consecutive days for caregiver relief. This means that the family can travel, see other loved ones, or even just have a much-needed respite from caregiving, knowing that their loved one is safe and being checked on daily by hospice staff. Hospice really can help families take care of loved ones as they navigate the challenges of endof-life care.
~OliviaVNA Hospice Care focuses on living life to its fullest and treating you with the dignity and respect you deserve. As a nonprofit, our bottom line is patient support and care provided by our highly qualified staff.
To schedule your free in-home informational visit please call (214) 535-2615 or email gethelp@vnatexas.org For volunteer opportunities please call (214) 689-2271 or email volunteer@vnatexas.org
Rahul Banerjee, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement, comprehensive management of fractures, and treatment of complex orthopaedic problems. Dr. Banerjee graduated from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and completed his residency and fellowship at Brown University.
After training, Dr. Banerjee served in the United States Air Force and worked with the Army treating the injured and training residents in El Paso, TX. He was deployed to the War in Iraq and treated many soldiers and civilians.
After his military service, Dr. Banerjee joined the faculty at University of Texas Southwestern as Assistant Clinical Professor. In 2021, Dr. Banerjee joined North Texas and Orthopaedic Spine. Dr. Banerjee is available to see patients at office locations in Plano, Carrollton and Dallas.
• Total Hip Replacement
• Direct Anterior Hip Replacement
• Knee Replacement
• Treatment of Fractures
• Bone Deformity
• Nonunion of Fractures
• Limb Lengthening
• Elbow Injuries / Elbow Replacement
• Foot and Ankle Injuries
• Infections
• Total Hip Revision
• Total Knee Revision
“From the moment I met Dr. Banerjee, he listened to what I had to say and how I felt, that means a lot to me. After many years of knee pain and not being able to live the lifestyle I wanted, he agreed to do a total knee replacement. It was the best decision I ever made. He did an amazing job! Less than two months out and I am walking and biking like I haven’t been able to in years! It really changed my life!!!”
–David P.Premier Foot & Ankle specializes in the treatment of all foot and ankle issues patients of all ages may experience. Our dedicated providers are committed to providing patients with quality care and pain relief using cuttingedge technology such as Pulse Activation Treatment to cure heel pain/plantar fasciitis as well as Padnet vascular and Smart Scan nerve testing for diabetics. By for the entire family, we at Premier Foot & Ankle focus on treating both the injured athlete and anyone with foot or ankle injuries.
Premier Foot & Ankle is the leading practice of foot and ankle specialists in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area as evidenced by multiple awards such as the Best of Dallas 2011-2012 and 2015-2020 and the Reader’s Choice Best of Living 2017. As a trusted and dedicated
provider, Premier Foot & Ankle is here to help patients alleviate their foot and ankle pain resulting from various foot disorders and injuries such as sports
and diabetic foot care.
To move toward your pain-free lifestyle with an individualized comprehensive treatment plan, visit us today at www.premierfoot.com to schedule your appointment!
D
ART invites participants in the 2022 Student Art Contest to DART’s New Bus Network: Simpler. Better. Faster. Easier! and incorporate this theme in their work. The contest is open to kindergarten through 12th grade students, limit one entry per student.
DART will accept entries through April 8, 2022. Competition is tough, so students should start early on their masterpieces! DART’s Annual Student Art Contest helps foster awareness of public transportation.
Each poster must visually illustrate the theme “ DART’s New Bus Network: Simpler. Better. Faster. Easier!.”
Limit one entry per student. Designs must be original work created by the student. No group entries allowed.
Media may include crayons, paint, markers, colored pencils and digital art.
Dallas Area Rapid Transit 1401 Pacific Avenue P.O. Box 660163 Dallas, TX 75266-0163 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 HERE ARE SEVEN ENTRY REQUIREMENTS TO REMEMBER:
Students may use multiple colors or black and white. Entries must measure 11” high x 17” wide, and the design should be laid out horizontally. Mailed entries should be submitted on heavy paper such as poster, tag or illustration board.
Contestants should include the DART logo in any drawings of buses or trains.
All mailed entries must include a completed entry form found at Dart.org/ArtContest. Affix the completed form to the back of the artwork. Entries must arrive no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2022, and should be directed to:
Students in all grade levels now have the option of submitting their entries online. All digital entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2022, at DART.org/ArtContest.
DART’s Transit Education Program 2022 Student Art Contest
Some of the most important decisions in your life involve healthcare. Decisions that can impact your family, your work, as well as the quality and length of your life.
You can’t take even the smallest decision lightly.
Which medication should I take? Do I even need medication? Why more tests? Where should I have surgery? Do I even need surgery?
To help make these decisions, you need a healthcare partner that you can trust, and that may be the most difficult decision of all.
Trust is the foundation of a physician-patient relationship. No one wants to think that their physician might have a conflict of interest. But healthcare is a business, a very expensive business.
You need an unbiased physician to help you to make the best decisions. A physician focused entirely on your needs, with no hidden agenda, and no secondary business distractions.
Over 70% of America’s physicians, compared to less than 40% in 2010, are employed by a healthcare corporation. Insurance companies, hospitals, or venture capitalists now employ most of the physicians in our country. Each of those businesses are influencing, to varying degrees, the decisions of their employed physicians. Many corporations are counting the number of referrals to their system, measuring the revenue, and justifying their investment in the employed physicians.
There is nothing wrong with profit. But when it comes to your healthcare decisions, it is wise to know who profits from the advice that you are receiving.
Fortunately, good patient care remains the goal for most physicians, regardless of the business model in which they work. But in this time of rapid consolidation, it is critical for patients to know what questions to ask.
Independent physicians can protect your freedom of choice because you will not be limited to the consultants or facilities that benefit the physician. Instead, you can have a trusted partner that helps you find the best value, and highest quality, that serves your needs.
Dr. Culpepper has led Bent Tree Family Physicians for 34 years, growing from a solo practice into a successful group of 7 MD’s and 13 mid-level providers, in North Dallas and Frisco. Bent Tree Family Physicians is a nationally recognized primary care practice that blends the traditions of personalized healthcare with the latest medical science and technology.
Dr. Culpepper co-founded Jefferson Physician Group (JPG), where he has served as CEO for 26 years. JPG is a group of over 500 practitioners dedicated to improving North Texas healthcare and to protecting the innovation of independent medical practices.
Dr. Culpepper has demonstrated leadership at every level of his career, from serving as Chief Resident during his training at U.T. Southwestern Medical School, to becoming the Chief of Staff and Founding Chair of the Family Medicine Department for THR Presbyterian Hospital.
He has served on the Board of Trustees for Medical City Hospital Plano and Frisco, in addition to the Foundation Board of the Dallas County Community College District.
His unique passion for healthcare has been rewarded with multiple honors, including 29 consecutive years as “Best Doctor” in D Magazine , and 18 consecutive years as “Top Doctor” in Texas Monthly
Dr. Culpepper believes that the strength of America’s healthcare comes from independent physicians, and he has dedicated his life to protecting the physician’s role as the leaders of patient advocacy.
R. Brent Bridwell, M.D. is a board-certified Sports Medicine physician. He received his Doctorate of Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. After finishing residency training at AnMed Health Hospital in South Carolina, he completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Blue Ridge Orthopedics/Clemson University.
Dr. Bridwell manages all musculoskeletal conditions and sports related injuries. He is skilled at the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound for both diagnosing and guiding injection treatments. Most recently, Dr. Bridwell offers regenerative medicine for treating both acute and chronic injuries with Platelet Rich Plasma Injections (PRP).
• Providing Non-Surgical Treatment for:
• Sports Injuries
• Sprains/Strains
• Impingements
• Arthritis
• Overuse Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Hand/Wrist Pain
• Knee, Shoulder, Hip, Back Pain
Two convenient locations:
FRISCO
3550 Parkwood Blvd., Ste. 600 Frisco, TX 75034
(972) 377-8800
NORTH DALLAS
17110 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 100 Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 380-7000
Jefferson Physician Group (JPG) is a network of over 200 independent physicians, working cooperatively to preserve the private practice of medicine and to provide the greatest value in healthcare.
Founded in 1995, JPG believes that independent physicians deliver the highest level of personalized care and offer the greatest opportunity for healthcare innovation.
Believe it or not, some folks don’t understand what dental implants are, how they work and why they are so helpful. A dental implant acts just like a real tooth root, maintaining complete stability of the attached tooth or teeth and stimulating the surrounding bone so that the bone maintains its volume. Dental implants are often the most conservative tooth replacement option and can be a better option than complex dental work to try and save a tooth where the tooth is already highly compromised. The actual implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root of the missing tooth or provides an anchor for a full arch case. After the implant is integrated into the bone, we can place a tooth on top of it and allow you to begin feeling confidet again and chewing normally.
Why would anyone want to get dental implants? Something that can help aid you in your decision between a Dental Implant and any other dental procedure is that you will most likely want a solution composed of 5 things: natural looking, comfortable, easy to maintain, healthy for your mouth and a great value. Imagine a smile that is pure, clean and allows you to beam with confidece. Imagine a smile that allows you to brush and flos normally. Imagine a smile that will not require return visits to the dentist to maintain and replace expensive appliances. Dental implants are a great option for each of these ideal solutions.
Gone are the days of teeth flpping around in your mouth! Dental implants can secure most dentures, and that’s life changing. Most of us like being social and the most common thing we do is eat together. That’s reason enough to make sure your teeth are secure, not to mention being able to eat the food we enjoy. Additionally, a single tooth implant might be used to preserve the surrounding teeth by avoiding a cemented bridge. When we do bridges, we have to treat the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. In trying to restore missing teeth, we would love to keep the others healthy too.
What worries the average person about getting implants? You can be sure almost everyone can benefit from implants. It’s a rare case that we can’t help someone. Maybe it might be between $3,000 for a
single tooth and $50,000 for an entire mouth reconstruction. There are affordable ways, including special fiancing, that could bring the cost down to $56 a month for a single tooth and $390 for one full arch. Ths is all subject to credit approval and a down payment, but it gives a proper perspective to those who are considering this.
Another possible misconception is that Dental Implants could be painful. Most of the time getting implants is not nearly as uncomfortable as people imagine. There is a lot of planning put into the surgery ahead of time so that the actual procedure is quite simple.
The Allen Dental Center has been performing many dental services for decades, but implants are at the top of the list. We even have the Dallas Implant Institute conducting continuing education classes out of this facility with our doctors as the instructors. In other words, our dentists are getting to teach other dentists how to be successful at placing implants.
Implants can and often last a lifetime. It is important to fid a dentist who knows how to help you get the successful results you deserve. Allen Dental Center is offering a free consultation with necessary x-rays and are currently looking for certain cases that we can use for teaching classes.
Are Dental Implants right for you? Ask yourself these questions:
• Are you missing one or more teeth and would love to have a complete smile once again?
• Do you currently have any other kinds of tooth replacements such as: dentures, bridges, flppers, etc. that aren’t providing the comfort or convenience you desire?
• Have you or are you experiencing any mouth injuries, decay, gum disease?
• Are you embarrassed about your teeth and your smile?
• Would you love to fially have a healthy, beautiful smile?
If you said yes to one or more of these questions, then you are likely a good candidate for dental implants.
At North Texas Orthopaedic & Spine (NTOS), patients of all ages are given the focused, individualized care they need in order to live fully and comfortably. The team at NTOS has a high level of expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions involving the spine, joints, and bones.
Patients appreciate the practice’s ability to educate them thoroughly about their conditions and give them the tools that they need to take control of their well-being. Whether the patient is an athlete with an injury or someone who has a long-term condition that affects their daily life, the NTOS team works alongside them to get them back to a full, active life. NTOS offers treatment for shoulder pain, tennis elbow, torn ACLs, sciatica, carpal tunnel, herniated disc, scoliosis and more. These and other conditions can get in the way of your work, hobbies, and general enjoyment of life.
VUDHI SLABISAK, MD OLABISI BRUCE MARKMAN, MD RAHUL BANERJEE, MD4090 Mapleshade Ln., Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75093
4833 Medical Center Dr., 6E McKinney, TX 75069
874 West Hwy., 243, Suite 110 Kaufman, TX 75142
Lakewood Medical Center 6243 Retail Rd., Ste. 500 Dallas, TX 75231
3670 West Wheatland Rd. Dallas, TX 75237
7589 Preston Rd., Ste. 500 Frisco, TX 75034
8080 Independence Pkwy., Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75025
600 East Taylor St., Ste. 304 Sherman, TX 75090
3110 Parks Center Drive Tyler, TX 75701
CHIP & JOANNA
PUT FAMILY FIRST WHILE BUILDING A LIFESTYLE EMPIRE IN TEXAS.
BY SONDRA BARRIn small town Waco, Texas, Chip and Joanna Gaines are hometown royalty. Since the launch of their show Fixer Upper in 2013, the pair revitalized the once sedate town into a bustling, must-visit destination that millions of their devotees visit yearly for a chance to sample the gracious, bucolic lifestyle cultivated by the Gaines’s Magnolia brand.
There’s the 5-acre Magnolia Market shopping complex, the Magnolia Press coffee shop, the Silos Baking Co. Bakery, and Magnolia Table, add to this their lifestyle books, a magazine (Magnolia Journal), apparel, furniture, accessories, a real estate company, and most recently their very own cable channel, the Magnolia Network on Discovery, all proof of the pair’s influence in the worlds of design, food, home, and garden.
The photogenic couple’s affble nature and country approachability, combined with an eye for design, have contributed to their popularity. Yet, it’s their unwavering commitment to each other and their family that is the ultimate “secret” sauce to their appeal.
“We are who you think we are. We’re the couple you want to go have a coffee with, we’re the couple you want to have a 15-minute chat with on the way to the market,” said Chip to Hunter Hauk of Cowboys & Indians. “ The reason that we’re those people is because we do the hard work that is required. We treat each other with respect. We admire one another’s strengths and weaknesses. We pull for each other. We learned that early.”
Although they both graduated from Baylor University, Chip with a marketing degree and Joanna with a degree in communications, his fist glimpse of her was a photo of Joanna hanging on the wall of her father’s Firestone Tire store. “I knew I’d marry her one day just by the picture on the wall,” Chip told Popsugar
Hoping to meet his future wife, Chip returned to the shop for fresh “repairs.” His doggedness proved fruitful when he fially ran into her. He landed a date by complimenting Joanna on the car commercials she starred in for her family’s tire shop.
“At fist, I couldn’t believe how kind Chip was––he had kind eyes, and made me laugh a lot. I knew he was the one because I knew I could trust him,” Joanna said.
Contrary to their traditional Christian values, after only a year of dating, they moved into a rental property of Chip’s, an 800-square-foot home that they renovated. They married in 2003, the year they opened the original Magnolia Market on Bosque Blvd. After their wedding, they purchased their fist offial flp together. “All I could remember is the smell. The house was bad. Chip did all the construction, and I remember many nights he was on his hands and knees staining flors or laying tile,” she said.
“I remember when we fist got married the only money we had was what was in Chip’s pocket,” Joanna told PEOPLE. “He always had a wad of cash, but we were broke. If I needed to go grocery shopping it’s whatever was in his pocket. That’s how we paid the bills.”
A Vietnam War vet, Joanna’s father wasn’t exactly pro Chip. “Her dad spent the fist two years of our marriage asking me if I was going to get a job,” Chip said. “I was like, ‘I have a job and I like it.’”
When Magnolia Market closed in 2006 after the birth of two of their five children, the duo focused on their construction business, Magnolia Homes.
“One pretty amazing thing we learned early on was that the more time we spent together, the better our relationship was,” wrote Joanna on her blog. “We seem to give each other energy. We function better together than we do apart, and I don’t think either one of us has ever felt the urge to say,
“ ONE PRETTY AMAZING THING WE LEARNED EARLY ON WAS THAT THE MORE TIME WE SPENT TOGETHER, THE BETTER OUR RELATIONSHIP WAS.
”
‘I need a break from you.’ Don’t get me wrong, we’ve certainly had our share of disappointments and arguments, but we just always wanted to tackle our issues together.”
After more than a decade of flpping houses, Joanna’s blog caught the attention of producer Katie Neff, who called the couple to learn more.
“I was just really impressed by the fact that they were so in love with the town and so dedicated to it––and so dedicated to making a more beautiful place to live in. It’s the perfect place to be flpping homes, because there were so many horribly decrepit homes that you couldn’t live in,” Nefftold Texas Monthly
HGTV recognized the duo’s dynamic chemistry and distinctive style was unique and signed them up, much to the surprise of Chip, who initially couldn’t believe it was legitimate interest. “He was like, ‘it’s a scam, do not call them back,’” Joanna told Today
Launched in 2013, Fixer Upper became the most watched series in the history of HGTV. With years spent fixig and flpping houses, they hit the ground running and viewers were instantly hooked on the pair’s charming design aesthetic.
Early on, they established ground rules to ensure their brood, which has since grown to five, wouldn’t suffer due to filming. They insisted all the homes worked on during the show’s 79 episodes be in Waco so that they were rarely far from home or their other businesses.
“ I KNEW I’D MARRY HER ONE DAY JUST BY THE PICTURE ON THE WALL.
”
Single-handedly responsible for turning farmhouse chic into a national obsession and for the meteoric rise of shiplap sales, the looks they achieved on the show were widely coveted and opened the door for other opportunities.
“We realized we didn’t necessarily love that side of the camera, and that part became a fulltime job,” said Joanna to PEOPLE. “We’ve got a big family. We’ve got a business. The show ended up where we had to constantly be feeding it.”
When Chip and Joanna walked away from the show in 2018, fans were shocked. Yet, the pair, always ahead of the trend, had bigger plans. Their biggest remodel to date turned out to be the transformation of HGTV’s sister channel, DIY Network, into their own personal cable realm devoted exclusively to Chip and Joanna curated content. Named (what else) Magnolia Network, it debuted on cable this year with over a dozen original shows handpicked by the duo and the tagline “TV that feels like home.” Not surprising, considering Magnolia Network is a coming home of sorts for Chip and Joanna.
“What we’re hoping to do is to light a fie so that you can go out and create the life that you were meant to live. And that’s really, really the bottom line for us,” explained Chip to Variety about the venture.
“We just believe in the power of getting around the television as a family watching the same show together. I think right now a lot of people are on their own devices watching their own shows,” said Joanna. “It kind of reminds me of six years ago when we said yes to [creating Magnolia Journal quarterly] magazine. That was something we were dreaming about. Everyone was saying it’s all going digital, print is dying. We believe in the idea of sitting in your favorite chair with your magazine for an hour doing that kind of back-to-basics thing. And I think the same goes with television. It’s weird to think of it as nostalgic, but being around the television set feels like back to the basics all over again.”
“ WE’RE THE COUPLE YOU WANT TO GO HAVE A COFFEE WITH, WE’RE THE COUPLE YOU WANT TO HAVE A 15-MINUTE CHAT WITH ON THE WAY TO THE MARKET.
”
Attorney Deandra M. Grant is the Managing Partner of Deandra Grant Law’s five offices. She is an international speaker on DWI law, science and trial skills. As the author of the annually updated Texas DWI Manual, she is viewed by her peers as being a leader in her field. Deandra understands the science behind alcohol absorption and elimination rates and can use this knowledge to competently defend you.
Deandra formerly was an assistant district attorney. Her tenure as a prosecutor focused on DWI prosecutions which has given her firsthand knowledge on how to counter the prosecutor’s evidence and strategy. Deandra has spent hundreds of hours in training courses and programs related to DWI defense and has completed the certification course to administer standard field sobriety testing (SFST), the same training course taught to police officers nationwide on how to identify drunk drivers during traffic stops. As a certified SFST Instructor, Deandra has taught the course to other attorneys. She’s also completed the coursework on DWI forensic blood and urine testing.
“I have a masters degree in pharmaceutical science and a graduate certificate in forensic toxicology. I am able to take apart evidence in ways a lot of other attorneys are not able to do. The most important part of my job is being the barrier between the government and my client. Standing between them. Making sure their rights are protected.”
–DEANDRA GRANTDr. Birenbaum founded the Arlington Cancer Treatment Center in 1981. He founded the Texas Hematology/Oncology Center, PA in 1997. He is the founder, Medical Director, and CEO. Dr. Birenbaum trained at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Institute for 5 years, 3 years as a Hematology/Oncology fellow and 2 years as a facility professor. His private practice in Hematology/Oncology has been in the Dallas/Fort Worth area since 1979. Dr. Birenbaum is available by cell phone 24/7 and participates in many support groups and radio programs.
AREAS OF CLINICAL INTEREST:
• Gastrointestinal Tumors
• Melanoma, Sarcoma
• Breast Cancer
• Lymphoma
• Kidney Cancer
EDUCATION AND TRAINING CREDENTIALS:
• Southern Methodist University
• Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara/University of Michigan
• Straight Medical Internship - Henry Ford Hospital/University of Michigan
• Straight Medicine Residency - Tulane University Medical Center/Ochsner Clinic
• Fellowship Hematology/Oncology - University of Texas M.D.
Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute
• Private Practice 1979 to Present
PERSONAL INTERESTS:
• Born and raised in Dallas, TX
• Father of 2 sons
• Owns six dogs
• Loves traveling and golf
• Avid collector of arts and antiques
Dennis Birenbaum, MD and Dr. Wyszynski, MD, DO are M.D. Anderson trained hematologists/oncologists.
Dr. Wyszynski, MD, DO also trained at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA.
You
Dr. Wyszynski joins the Texas Hematology and Oncology Centers after many years of successful private medical practice in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Dr. Wyszynski completed his internship and residency at John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Stanford, New Jersey. He followed these with a number of Fellowships including one in Hematology/Oncology at the prestigious M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, and two years at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Wysznski is well known for his quality of care and the personal interest he takes in his patients. He is very active in many professional societies and investigative trials.
BOARD CERTIFICATIONS:
• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine: Hematology/
• Oncology-Certified: 8/24/2007
• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine
PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES:
• American Osteopathic Association
• ASCO
• Texas Medical Association
• Dallas County Medical Association
CLINICAL CANCER INVESTIGATIVE TRIALS:
• Central Pennsylvania Oncology Group Protocal
• Eastern Cooperative Group
• Southwest Oncology Group
PERSONAL INTERESTS:
• Married and father of 2 children
• Enjoys traveling and spending time with family
• Active in many hobbies
Dr. Chambers is an orthopaedic surgeon at Texas Bone & JointArlington who specializes in joint replacement surgery. He received extensive training in joint replacement surgery during his fellowship at Harvard Medical School / Massachusetts General Hospital, which was voted as the top hospital in the United States. Dr. Chambers has implemented the techniques learned at Harvard Medical School into his own practice and offers minimally invasive total hip / knee replacement, partial knee replacement, revision surgery for malfunctioning, loose, and infected joint replacements, arthroscopic surgery of the hip and knee, and revision of failed and recalled metal-on-metal total hip replacement implants. Dr. Chambers focuses special attention on surgical techniques for rapid recovery after total joint replacement which allow his patients a more predictable and earlier return to home and an active lifestyle.
Dr. Chambers is pleased to offer the MAKOplasty Robotic-Arm Assisted partial/total knee and hip replacement. The MAKOplasty procedure is changing the way joint replacement surgeries are performed by providing each patient with a personalized surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and unique anatomy using a CT-based 3D modeling. The robotic arm technology allows for extremely precise placement of hip/knee components with potentially less soft tissue injury than traditional joint replacement.
Dr. Chambers is a Texas native and grew up in Houston, Texas. He attended medical school at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, and completed residency at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas. He then completed a fellowship in joint replacement surgery at Harvard Medical School. In his free time, Dr. Chambers enjoys traveling with his wife, Christine, and spending time with friends and family. He is an avid sailor and enjoys participating in sailing races on the local lakes in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area.
THEIR FAMILIES
Elder Law is first and foremost about empowering seniors. Elder Law services help you address issues of living arrangements, financial well-being, healthcare options, and the ultimate disposition of assets, enabling you to make your own choices and decisions about managing life as you age.
PROBATE LITIGATION ESTATE PLANNING WILLS & TRUSTS
“Elder Law” is a relatively new area of focus within the legal community. Attorneys who practice Elder Law have committed themselves to helping seniors plan for the issues they will face as they age. In recent years, the demand for attorneys focused on this area of the law has only increased. With 10,000 people turning 65 every day, and advancements in medical technology allowing people to live longer than ever before, access to long-term health care is becoming increasingly more complicated and expensive.
Attorneys who primarily work with seniors appreciate the complex fiancial, social, and health-related decisions their clients face. Elder Law attorneys bring to their practice a knowledge of their client base that allows them to ignore the myths related to aging, while empathizing with the true physical and mental difficulties that often accompany the aging process. Moreover, Elder Law attorneys are normally tied into a community of support agencies and organizations, such as geriatric care managers, psychologists, and other professionals who may be of assistance to seniors and their families.
Elder Law encompasses many different filds of law, including the following:
Estate Planning. Everyone should plan for the future, regardless of their income or asset level. Books and websites with pre-printed forms are not always up to date, and documents available from these sources may not work in your state or meet your goals. Elder Law attorneys have special training and expertise in estate and disability planning, and are sensitive to the special needs of seniors and their families. A comprehensive estate plan includes several documents that work together to ensure your wishes are followed and trusted individuals are in place to assist you if you are no longer able to act for yourself:
• A Will declares your intentions regarding the distribution of your property after you die
• A Durable Power of Attorney appoints an agent to act on your behalf regarding fiancial and legal matters.
• A Medical Power of Attorney appoints an agent to make health care decisions for you, if you are unable to do so yourself.
• A HIPAA Release and Authorization names individuals who may access your health information.
• A Directive to Physicians (Living Will) provides direction to your agent under the medical power of attorney regarding your desires about life-sustaining treatment.
• A Declaration of Guardian names individuals you trust to be appointed your guardian, if necessary, as well as individuals who should never be appointed.
Public Benefits (Medicaid/VA). Available healthcare choices depend on your specific stuation and needs. Elder Law attorneys can
help ensure the proper level of care, and explore payment options and eligibility for public benefits.
Guardianship. If you become unable to make important decisions for yourself, or are subject to exploitation by unscrupulous people, it may be necessary for a court to appoint a guardian. Elder Law attorneys can help you determine if a guardianship over your loved ones is necessary or whether other alternatives are available.
Probate/Estate Administration. After the death of a loved one, the legalities involved in distributing the estate can seem overwhelming. If title to assets needs to be transferred, a probate proceeding will usually be required. The type of proceeding depends on whether a valid Will exists, the details of its terms, the existence of debts, and the value of the estate. Elder Law attorneys can help you understand and evaluate your options.
Elder Law attorneys specialize in helping seniors and their families address the often-complicated legal issues related to fiancial and medical care Because of their concentration in this area, attorneys whose sole focus is Elder Law are more likely to have the legal tools and techniques necessary to meet the objectives of an older client. The Elder Law attorneys at Leu & Peirce, PLLC believe that education is one of the greatest benefits we can provide our clients and their families. Arming our clients with knowledge about options available to meet their care needs allows them to move through the aging process with confidece. If you or someone you love needs to visit with an Elder Law attorney, local agencies and support programs, such as the Alzheimer’s Association, State or local Bar organizations, or the website for the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (www.naela. org), are good places to look for a referral. Lori A. Leu, Erin W. Peirce, and Lauren E. Olson are Elder Law attorneys with Leu & Peirce, PLLC in Plano, Texas. For more information, call 972-996-2540 or visit www.leulawfim.com.
Those of you inching closer to retirement are probably wondering how your golden years will work from a fiancial standpoint. Ths is a natural curiosity, as you will one day need to replicate your income from your savings and other sources. While this might sound like a daunting task, it’s actually pretty simple to illustrate. I think that the advisory and planning industry provides too much detail around the topic and it might be explained in a way
that is confusing or downright scary. I’ll attempt to alleviate those feelings as we walk through a simple example. Most of you probably have a good handle on your income sources and expenses. The goal now is to figue out your known sources of income. Typical sources:
• Social Security
• Employer Pension
• Rental Property
These are all hypothetical numbers for illustrative purposes
Social Security (spouses combined): $4,000 mo................................$48,000 yr
Pension: $5,000 mo................................$60,000 yr
Rental Property (net of expenses): $1,500 mo................................$18,000 yr
Sub-Total: $10,500 mo............................$126,000 yr
Now, let’s add-in the effects of $1,000,000 in investible money from all accounts. Let’s assume the income producing stocks and bonds in the portfolio throws off 2.5% er year.
Then we need to figue out variable income from all your investment accounts; IRAs, Individual Accounts, Joint Accounts, 401ks, etc. These accounts will be invested and will be throwing offincome from the investments you own, plus appreciation (over time). Ths income can be added to all of your known sources, and voila, you have your retirement income plan. To give you more peace of mind, let’s plug in some numbers:
$1,000,000 @ 2.5%.............................................................$25,000
Total…………………………………..………………$151,000*
Continued on next page
“Ths is all well and good, but I need more income.” I get this request pretty often, so there’s more that one can harvest from their investment accounts to get that extra income. Let’s use the same example as the couple with the $1 million in investible accounts. Let’s say they need $50,000 per year (5%) from the aggregate of all their accounts. Well, as shown above, half of it (2.5%) is already coming in from dividends and bond coupons, so where does the other 2.5% come from. The answer is the appreciation of the portfolio. That’s right, at the end of the day you are indifferent from getting $50,000 a year in dividends vs. selling $50,000 worth of your investments.** It’s all just money! Ths is a concept called total return. It’s your investment income + the appreciation over time.
You might be saying to yourself, “Well, that seems like I’m digging into principal, and I am not comfortable with that.” I get this question by virtually every client, and here’s my simple answer. As long as your total return, over time, is in excess of your withdrawals, your principal will continue to grow over time.
The next natural question (and I’ll spare you from having to ask) is how does this work in a recession and a bear market? It’s a fair question and one that deserves an answer. Given that the duration of market cycles can vary, and trying to predict the next big downturn is a fool’s errand, it’s always good to have a cash cushion that makes a person comfortable. Perhaps one to two years’ worth of cash needs should be kept in a money market? When the market takes that big dip, you can now draw from your cushion without having to sell anything during the down period. Once the market comes back, you replenish the cash you have taken out by selectively selling when things have rebounded. The specificsof how your portfolio should be allocated is an exercise that all clients should have with their advisor.
The essence of a plan is showing a person how to get income by pulling various levers at various times. There really isn’t much more to it than that. Where the artistry comes into play is helping a client figue out when it’s best to pull each lever. For example, should I take social security as early as I can or should I defer? Should I start taking distributions from my IRA now, or wait until age 72 when the Required Minimum Distribution kicks in?
All of these variables can be worked out when talking to a client and running scenarios. Sure, there could always be some one-offsalong the way. Perhaps you want to sell a rental property, or you might be getting an inheritance. All of these can be accounted for and baked into your income plan when they occur. Again, putting together the plan is not the hard part, but it’s the execution of the plan by your advisor that is the hardest part.
You might need your portfolio to deliver income over a 20- to 30-year horizon, and in those multiple decades there will be some crazy times in the market where a seasoned investment manager can truly add value. It might behoove a person to look for the most qualifid manager fist, then figue out the income plan, not the reverse. Why? Some advisors lead with the fiancial planning angle as the most important part, build you the plan, and then try to sell you products for the plan or outsource the management to a third party. They might be great with numbers and spreadsheets, but can they manage money in an ever-changing market? Ths is one of the most important questions you need to ask yourself while you’re evaluating an advisor.
“EverybodyHasaPlanUntilThey Get Punched in the Mouth”MIKE TYSON
*This is a pre-tax amount
**There could be different tax treatments for IRA withdrawals, dividend payments, and capital gains.
Hodges Capital Management, Inc. is a Federally Registered Investment Advisory Firm registered with the SEC. The above discussion is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results, and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. Investing in smaller companies involves additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility. No current or prospective client should assume that information referenced in this communication is a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. No client or prospective client should assume that any information provided is a substitute for personalized individual advice from the adviser or any other investment professional. This document was created for informational purposes only and the opinions expressed are solely those of Hodges Capital Management, Inc.
All data and information reference herein are from sources believed to be reliable. Any opinions, news, research, analyses, prices, or other information contained in this research is provided as general market commentary, it does not constitute investment advice. Hodges Capital Management shall not in any way be liable for claims and make no expressed or implied representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of the data and other information, or for statements or errors contained in or omissions from the obtained data and information referenced herein. The data and information are provided as of the date referenced. Such data and information are subject to change without notice.
Southwest Foot & Ankle Center is a respected group of board certified foot and ankle surgeons. They are fellow trained surgeons, and board certified in wound care and reconstructive surgery. All physicians have also completed an intense residency and fellowship in the area of limb salvage, and foot and ankle surgery. The team at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center strive to make each patient’s experience personable. Our outcomes are of perfection and meticulous in surgery. As a result, patients from all over the country seek to be treated by DFW Wound Care Center.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Bunion and Hammer Toe Correction
MIS—Minimally Invasive Surgery
Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis) Stem Cell Therapy
Neuropathy
Ingrown Toenails Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Diabetic Foot Care Flat Feet Trauma Wound Care
Custom Orthotics & Braces
Laser Therapy for Pain, Swelling, Arthritis, and Wounds PLANO CLINIC 5804 Coit Rd., Ste. 100 Plano, TX 75023
LEWISVILLE CLINIC 502 N. Valley Pkwy., #2 Lewisville, TX 750067
CLINIC 714 N. Hampton Rd. De Soto, TX 75115
An estimated 2.3% of adults have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), according to the National Institute of Mental Health. For many, the symptoms begin in childhood or adolescence. Ths anxiety disorder is a neurological malfunction that creates unrelenting, intrusive thoughts, and extreme anguish for those affected. Obsessions range from unbearable worries about contamination to believing they have run over someone while driving. These fears can be alleviated only one way—by acting out compulsions, which become repetitive acts of checking and rechecking to ensure the fear is unfounded.
OCD was added to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) in 1987. Yet many people still live with its destruction unaware there’s treatment or even a name for their bizarre fears and behaviors. Add to that, “Families often don’t know they have a sick child,” says Judith L. Rapoport, M.D., in The Boy Who Couldn’t Stop Washing. Children may keep their obsessions and compulsions a secret to avoid appearing crazy.
The devastation of OCD isn’t seen in just the adult or child with the disorder. OCD negatively impacts the whole family. Families often destruct from the stress caused by the disorder. It’s not unusual for the OCD sufferer to rely on family members to help alleviate their fears. The afflted person may insist that a child, parent, or spouse check electrical outlets or may badger loved ones with constant questions for reassurance.
Many individuals with OCD fear contamination. Often, family members get banned from specificrooms or areas to prevent contamination of the areas. Family members may also be required to live up to unreasonable standards of cleanliness to satisfy the person with OCD. In other homes, compulsions such as hoarding are so out of hand the home becomes a maze. Family members must maneuver through narrow trails and stacks of boxes and clutter.
In OCD, the brain is essentially stuck, according to many researchers. It replays a particular thought over and over again, like a broken record. It tricks the individual and they cannot trust their judgment. Those who don’t understand OCD often tell the afflted, “Why don’t you just stop?”
Researchers believe the disorder is neurobiological. The obsessions are not a matter of choice. Differences have been found in the brain of OCD sufferers through brain imaging techniques. Some studies have found abnormalities in the neurotransmitters, such as serotonin. The occurrence of OCD is also higher in families with depressive and anxiety disorders. For most people with the disorder, there’s no known event that relates to their particular obsession(s). Still, researchers feel environmental stressors may play at least some role in the development of OCD for those who are biologically predisposed.
Although there’s no known cure for OCD, there are several treatments available. The two most common, effective, and proven forms of treatment for OCD are psychotropic drugs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Many doctors recommend medication in combination with CBT. Medication helps to normalize brain dysfunction making people more receptive to CBT. Then they can learn techniques through CBT to relieve or stop the intrusive thoughts and control compulsive behaviors.
There are also several treatments marketed for which there is not a preponderance of evidence to support their effectiveness. These include hypnotherapy, psychosurgery, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). So caution should be exercised if considering these methods.
The severity of untreated OCD generally tends to worsen over time. It can become completely debilitating. If someone in your family has symptoms of OCD, contact your mental health care provider for a confidetial evaluation. With proper treatment, many OCD sufferers can lead healthy and productive lives.
• Fear of running over someone while driving
• Fear of contamination
• Fear of harming others
• Fear of blurting obscenities or insults
• Preoccupation with a part of the body
• Violent, horrific, or disgusting images
• Superstitions or persistent thoughts of lucky/unlucky colors, etc.
• Extreme concern with religious issues, values, or morals
• Repeated checking of doors, ovens, locks, plugs, or other items
• Repeated rituals such as counting or going in and out of doors a specific number of times, among other rituals
• Excessive arranging and rearranging
• Hoarding or collecting mail, newspapers, food, or other items
• Repeated confessions or asking repeated questions for reassurance
• Prolonged or repeated bathing or handwashing
• Repeatedly checking for mistakes
• Repeatedly drawing up lists
When orthopedic pain slows you down and makes everyday movement a challenge, call the experts at Orthopedic Institute of North Texas. Our surgeons provide a comprehensive array of solutions designed to resolve your pain.
Our approach is simple
Our patients are our top priority. We carefully review your options, explain your treatment, and the prospects for a return to full mobility. You will be fully informed at every step of your treatment.
Our experts are available 24/7
During diagnosis, treatment and recovery, any questions or concerns you have will be answered. We speak in terms you can understand, and discuss every step of your care to ensure you feel comfortable and confident with the recommended treatment plan.
Our promise to you
Using advanced, proven medical techniques, the surgeons at Orthopedic Institute of North Texas will return you to the freedom of mobility you enjoyed before.
Don’t spend one more day in pain. Call 972-591-6468 today and get playing again.
Education:
Medical School:
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston-Galveston TX
Residency:
Louisiana State University Health Science Center-New Orleans LA
Fellowship:
Shoulder and Elbow Reconstruction, KerlanJobe Institute, Los Angeles CA
Memberships:
• American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
• American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons
• Texas Medical Association
Dr. Patel specializes in shoulder and elbow issues along with wrist and hand surgery. He specializes in shoulder and elbow replacement, shoulder arthroscopy, carpel tunnel syndrome, and complex revision procedures of the upper extremity. He has numerous publications in medical journals and currently has several ongoing research projects. He has spoken nationally on a number of topics regarding upper extremity orthopedic conditions.
Dr. Patel’s family consists of his wife and two children. He enjoys traveling the globe and capturing the moment. When he is not working, he loves all outdoor activities and sports and enjoys the culinary arts.
Frisco • Farmers Branch • Lewisville www.oint.org 972-591-6468
Spring in North Texas can be especially brutal for allergy sufferers. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Dallas ranks 19th in the nation for the most challenging places to live with spring allergies, although this year’s ranking is an improvement from last year’s no.7 rank.
Spring allergies can cause sneezing, runny nose and nasal congestion, as well as dry, red, itchy, burning or even swollen eyes. These symptoms are more than irritating; they can be downright painful.
How allergies affect your eyes
When the conjunctiva (mucous membrane covering the whites of the eyes and lining the eyelids) comes into contact with allergens such as pollen from grasses, trees and weeds, the immune system senses a threat and antibodies are developed that release histamine, causing watery, itchy, red eyes.
In addition to seasonal allergies, many people suffer from perennial allergies, which may be caused by dust, mold, pet dander, air pollution, cosmetics, perfume, medication or smoke. If you aren’t certain of the cause of your eye allergies, ask your doctor for an allergy test to determine the source of your discomfort.
Common types of allergic eye conditions
• Allergic conjunctivitis or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: Ths is the most common allergic eye condition, and it is typically associated with seasonal allergies or hay fever. The
release of histamine can cause common eye allergy symptoms, including itchy, red, burning, watery or swollen eyes. Topical antihistamine drops, decongestants and mast-cell stabilizers are common treatments for allergic conjunctivitis.
• Atopic keratoconjunctivitis:
Primarily affecting adolescent boys, this condition involves inflammation in the conjunctiva and the cornea. Symptoms include itchy, red patches on the eyelids, scaly or crusty skin on the eyelids, heavy discharge or sensitivity to light. If not properly managed, this condition could lead to permanent scarring of the cornea from rubbing and scratching.
• Vernal keratoconjunctivitis:
Though less common, this spring eye allergy condition causes the eyes to become itchy, sensitive to light and can even cause eyelids to feel heavy or droopy. Improper treatment may lead to impaired vision. A short-term, low-dose prescription of topical steroids has shown to be the most effective treatment for this condition.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, follow these eye care tips for relief from your symptoms:
• Apply a cold compress. If your eyes are puffy or swollen from allergies, a cold compress can provide temporary relief.
• Stay inside and keep your windows closed on high pollen count days. Local weather services provide daily pollen counts. When pollen is high, avoid being outside as much as possible. Typically, pollen counts tend to be higher mid-morning and early evening.
• Wear eyeglasses or sunglasses to block pollen from your eyes. When you do go outside, eyeglasses or sunglasses can provide an extra shield to protect your eyes from allergens that may be in the air.
• Practice proper contact lens care. Contact lens wearers may experience more allergy symptoms due to allergens becoming trapped behind the contact lens. Lenses should be cleaned thoroughly and changed regularly. Do not share contact lenses or cases with others.
• Wash your hands and hair frequently. In the same way your hands can spread germs, they can also spread allergens, and if you spend much time outside during the spring, pollen and other allergens may become trapped in your hair.
• Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes. Consistently rubbing or scratching your eyes may lead to more serious eye
problems or a damaged cornea. Purchase over-the-counter eye drops, or ask your doctor for prescription eye drops to help relieve dry or itchy eyes.
• Change your bedding frequently. Allergens can stick to your bedding, further irritating your eyes.
Remember that some eye conditions—dry eyes or pinkeye, to name a few—are not caused by allergies, but may be confused with allergies. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of eye allergies, only your doctor will be able to tell you if your symptoms are in fact caused by an allergic reaction. Schedule an eye exam today to ensure your symptoms are not caused by an infection or more serious problem.
About Dr. Whitman
Key-Whitman Eye Center has been serving the North Texas area for over 60 years, and Dr. Jeffery Whitman is honored to be listed among D Magazine’s Best Doctors in Dallas in the category of ophthalmology and LASIK for the 20th year in a row. Under the direction of Dr. Whitman, the Key-Whitman team of highly experi enced doctors performs a full range of progressive ophthalmic services in eight convenient locations. Each surgeon is board certifid by the American Board of Ophthalmology, and each doctor performing LASIK and cataract surgery is additionally board certifid by the American Board of Eye Surgeons. Dr. Whitman is a recipient of the American Medical Association Physician’s Recognition.
He is one of the most experienced cataract and refractive surgeons in North Texas. His team is among the few in the area specializing in laser-assisted cataract surgery and the use of high-tech lens replacements. These intraocular implants are designed to give a wider range of vision, including far, intermediate, or close-up vision.
» Staffed by 2 Licensed, Doctors of Audiology
» Hearing Aid Fittings, Maintenance and Repairs
» Invisible Fittings/Open Fittings
» Evaluation Period On All Hearing Aids
» Hearing Evaluations For All Ages
» Wireless/Connectivity Hearing Solutions
» Battery Purchase Programs
» Custom Ear Protection
» Assistive Devices
Let’s start with some facts (NIDCD, 2013): one in five Americans 12 and older experiences hearing loss severe enough to hinder communication. Nearly 50% of adults ages 75 and older have hearing impairments. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic condition in older Americans after hypertension and arthritis. About 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have high frequency hearing loss due to exposure to loud noises at work or in leisure activities. Tinnitus (“ringing in the ears”) affects up to 50 million Americans. Tinnitus is currently the #1 service-connected disability for veterans from all service. If you have hearing loss, you’re not alone. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 360 million people worldwide have “disabling hearing loss.”
When we become aware of a sound in our environment, it is the result of a sequence of events. The outer ear-sound travels through the pinna, what we see on the side of our head, which collects and funnels sound into and down the ear canal, striking the eardrum and causing it to vibrate. The middle ear-vibrations from the eardrum cause the ossicles (the three smallest bones in the body) to vibrate which, in turn, send the information onto the inner ear. In the inner ear, the movement of the hair cells sends electrical impulses through the auditory nerve to the hearing center of the brain, which translates them to sounds the brain can recognize.
Something can go wrong along that whole auditory pathway, therefore many things can cause our hearing system to stop functioning
properly. The main causes are the aging process, noise exposure, infections, variety of diseases such as Meningitis, injuries to the head or ear, birth defects, genetics, and ototoxic reaction to drugs or cancer treatment (i.e., certain antibiotics, chemotherapy, etc.).
To understand why hearing loss is pervasive, it’s important to understand how hearing loss happens. Hearing loss happens when any part of our delicate hearing system stops working properly, whether it’s due to damage or deterioration. The most susceptible and common parts to break down are the microscopic stereocilia, the thousands of tiny hair cells that detect and send sound impulses to the brain. When these tiny hair cells become injured, diseased or die naturally, the result is sensory hearing loss. Ths is by far the most common type of hearing loss. When the microscopic stereocilia (hair cells) in your cochlear (inner ear) are damaged, they will not send complete signals to your brain, causing you to be unable to understand the consonants (more typical than vowels) within words. For example, the word “TOOTHBRUSH” may sound like “OO-BRU.” Healthy hair cells stand erect and are able to accurately detect sound waves and send impulses to the brain to correctly identify the word spoken. Damaged hair cells are limp and will no longer stand erect. They are therefore unable to properly detect sounds waves or send the correct information to the brain to identify.
If you think you hearing loss is inconsequential, you should know that studies have linked
untreated hearing loss to signifiant issues such as: diminished psychological and overall health, impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks, reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety, avoidance or withdrawal from social situations, social rejection and loneliness, fatigue, tension, stress and depression, irritability, negativism and anger, reduced job performance and earning power.
You can’t recreate a hearing loss simply by plugging your ears. A person with normal hearing can hear quiet, medium and loud sounds that vary from low pitch (bass) to high pitch (treble). But when you have hearing loss, you often lose the ability to hear higher pitched sounds fist, such as certain consonants like T, K, S, F, SH and TH. Even though you still may be able to hear the stronger, lower pitch vowel sounds. Ths is why “I hear, but cannot understand” is a common complaint.
If you think you or someone you know has hearing loss, the next step is an easy one— confim it by seeing an Audiologist. Just as every person is unique, every hearing loss and hearing need is unique too. Consult an Audiologist who is trained to inspect your ear canal, accurately measure your hearing loss, assess your unique needs and make a recommendation that takes all this personal information into account.
Every year thousands of dogs are turned over to animal shelters because they were given as a giftwithout fist consulting the gift recipient—or people discover they brought home a biter, barker, digger, or jumper. When pets are given away, owners, and particularly dogs, suffer. So before selecting your dog, do your homework. With a little pre-planning, you can fid the dog that most closely fits yours or your gift ecipient’s lifestyle.
Dogs can create many nuisances. Some of these are more common in particular breeds. A barking dog helps protect against intruders. But excessive barking can become a problem. Some breeds known for their barking include the Alaskan Malamute, American Water Spaniel, Bassett Hound, Finnish Spitz, Fox and other Terriers, Great Pyrenees, and Miniature Schnauzer.
A playful, energetic puppy can make a great playmate. But as your puppy grows, that hyperactivity could become overwhelming. Highstrung dogs often jump on people and tear through the house. Certain breeds tend to maintain that high energy level well into their adult size bodies. Such breeds include Airedale Terriers, Boxer, Brittany,
Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Jack Russell Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Pointer, and Schnauzer.
Dogs dig for many reasons—to bury a bone, to escape from a fenced yard, to keep cool, or out of boredom. A torn-up yard can be the last straw for many dog owners. The following breeds tend to be diggers: Fox Terriers, Norwich Terrier, and Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen.
Dogs can be aggressive for a variety of reasons. Poor breeding, physical abuse, and even disease can cause aggression in a dog. Certain dominant breeds can also tend toward aggressiveness if not handled by a fim and skilled handler. Choose these dogs with caution and the understanding they require strong leadership: Akita, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Chow Chow, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, Siberian Husky, and Weimaraner.
Grooming is another consideration. While it may sound painless, the upkeep of certain breeds can be overwhelming. In addition to keeping claws trimmed and an occasional bath, some dogs require lengthy daily brushing to remove tangles or trapped fur in double coats. High maintenance breeds include the American Eskimo, Cocker Spaniel, Collie, Great Pyrenees, Lhasa Apso, Old English Sheepdog, Poodle, Schnauzer, and Terriers.
Many unforeseen problems are avoidable by fiding a dog that’ll be easy to handle. Easy trainers include American Water Spaniel, Australian Shepherd, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniel, Irish Setter, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, and Shetland Sheepdog.
Calm, gentle breeds may be essential to your peace of mind. Keep in mind size alone doesn’t dictate these traits. Gentle breeds you might consider are Bassett Hound, Beagle, Bearded Collie, and Chinese Crested.
Playful and energetic puppies can be a handful once they’re fullgrown and haven’t outgrown their energy level. These include American Eskimo, Bloodhound, Brittany, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Irish Wolfhound, Labrador Retriever, Pointer, Poodle, Saint Bernard, or Schnauzer.
There are many other traits to consider in choosing a new dog. Before bringing home your puppy, read a book or articles about the breed that interests you to determine if it will fit your family’s lifestyle. For personalized assistance in choosing a breed, go to www.selectsmart.com/DOG or one of the many other breed selection sites. You’ll be guided through a series of questions and receive a free personalized list of matches.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 800,000 people, mostly children, are bitten annually severely enough to require medical attention. If you have grandchildren or other children who visit, keep in mind that Infants and small children shouldn’t be leftalone with a dog. It may be hard to picture your lovable Fido as capable of hurting a child. But even the gentlest dogs have been known to bite.
Little kids sometimes get too close to a dog while it’s eating or chewing a bone or startle a dog while it’s sleeping. Sometimes, small children hang on dogs, pull their tails, or threaten a dog’s safety. Ths can lead to injury to either the dog or your child.
Also, dogs view their families as part of their pack. A properly trained dog should view adults and older children as alpha (top dog). But a dog isn’t likely to see a small child in this light and may wield its authority when no one’s around.
Apartment living is another consideration. The size dog you choose is vital to both your dog’s well being and to maintain your sanity. High energy and medium to large breeds generally need large areas to romp. Without it, your apartment could become a round-the-clock racetrack. Planning regular walks for these dogs may not be sufficit. You’ll tire long before your dog. Also, there will be occasions when you aren’t able to accommodate your dog’s need to exercise.
The costs of pet ownership should also be weighed out. First, there are obvious costs, such as pet food and annual vaccinations. Other expenses include licensing, monthly heartworm pills, chew toys, damaged belongings, fencing, training, unexpected veterinary expense, grooming, kenneling, and more.
If you or frequent guests have bad allergies or asthma, check with your doctor before bringing any furred, feathered, or fined pet into your home. Also, the holiday season may not be the best time of year to bring home a new dog. People are generally too busy during the holidays to give a new pet the attention it needs. Choose a season when you’ll be able to spend plenty of time with your new dog as it adjusts to its new home.
The Humane Society, an animal shelter, or an accidental litter of pups is a great place to fid your dog at an affordable price. Giving a home to a dog that might otherwise be put to sleep or caged indefintely, and not contributing to the overpopulation of dogs by buying from breeders, are good reasons to go this route.
Most often, you’ll fid mixed breeds through these methods. Mixed breeds are less likely to inherit the diseases and disabilities often common in pure breeds. Keep in mind though, sometimes these dogs are strays or weren’t properly cared for by their original owner. If a dog didn’t receive proper vaccinations, it could be at risk for disease.
Continued on page 48
A dog that was abused by its previous owner could also pose risks. Ask the animal shelter what it knows about the dog’s history.
Another way to fid your new puppy is through a breeder. Taking home a puppy whose history is known and hasn’t been exposed to a poor environment is a plus. But caution should be used even when buying from a breeder. While most are in the business for their love of the breed, there are plenty of exceptions.
Some breeders are only interested in profits and have little knowledge or concern for good breeding and proper care of pups. Ths can lead to dogs with poor temperaments, genetic disorders, or disease. Ask plenty of questions, request references, and ask to see the puppies in their normal environment.
According to the American Kennel Club, some things to watch for when selecting your puppy include a runny nose, watery eyes, fever, or disease in the litter. If any of these conditions are present, look elsewhere.
Avoid a puppy that trembles and is shy or one that shows a bad temper. Also, understand that a kennel designated “AKC Reg.” doesn’t mean it has the American Kennel Club’s stamp of approval. It merely means the dogs are registered as being purebred. Finally, keep in mind that puppies should remain with their mother until six weeks of age, and preferably 8.
No matter how careful you are in selecting your pet, chances are, your puppy will develop a problem or nuisance behavior. Prevention is the fist step. Around six months, your puppy will be old enough for an obedience course. Teaching your puppy the basics will make it easier to manage problem behaviors. If you can’t take a class, purchase a dog-training manual and stick with it. If your dog shows signs of aggression, talk with a professional trainer or your veterinarian. Depending on the cause, there may be a simple solution. If you have kids and their safety becomes an issue, your only option may be a new home for your pet.
Whether your dog ends up with a new owner or in a shelter, make sure you explain the reason for giving your dog away, so it ends up in the proper environment. For other problem behaviors, there are several good books to help tame your dog. Decoding Your Dog: Explaining Common Dog Behaviors and How to Change or Prevent Unwanted Ones by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, provides many helpful techniques. Contrary to popular belief, never hit, kick, or swat a dog with a newspaper. Ths can lead to aggressiveness or increase already aggressive behavior. Most importantly, try to understand and accept your pet’s imperfections and adjust your home accordingly to reduce aggravations. In time, your dog will learn to accept the household routine and become a part of it.
For some dog owners, going on vacation without their dog is like leaving a family member behind. Therefore, many hotels accommodate guests who travel with pets. Try one of the following that offers pet-friendly services at some or most of its locations:
Residence Inn and TownePlace Suites by Marriott (800) 228-9290
Best Western (800) 528-1234
Hilton (800) 445-8667
Doubletree Hotels (800) 222-8733
Embassy Suites Hotels (800) 362-2779
Holiday Inn (800) 465-4329
Comfort Inn (877) 424-6423
In this special editorial section, the lawyers are listed in alphabetical order and by ad size. To learn more about the lawyers and their specialty, you can visit their websites provided. Their information presented in Living Well Magazine is not legal advice, nor is the Top Lawyers Section a legal referral service.
Thoughout the year, readers and clients nominate attorneys they feel are great candidates for the Top Lawyer recognition by Living Well Magazine Not all lawyers nominated opted to participate in this paid Top Lawyers Section. While we strive to maintain a high degree of accuracy in the information provided, we make no claim, promise or guarantee about the accuracy of the information provided to us. Hiring an attorney is an important
decision that should not solely be based upon advertising or the listings in this magazine.
Take your time and focus on fiding an attorney that has dealt with your specificlegal issue. You can usually fid out basic information about any attorney you’re interested in online. Their websites generally list their specialties, where they went to school, and how long they’ve been practicing. The Dallas Bar Association and Collin County Bar Association are other great places to research information. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, make an appointment with any attorney you’re interested in and set up a consultation (fid out if a fee is involved for the consultation). Be sure and take your questions with you to your consultation that are specific o your case.
Attorney Deandra M. Grant is the Managing Partner of Deandra Grant Law. She is an international speaker on DWI law, science and trial skills. As the author of the annually updated Texas DWI Manual, she is viewed by her peers as being a leader in her fild. Deandra understands the science behind alcohol absorption and elimination rates and can use this knowledge to competently defend you.
Deandra was included in the list of Super Lawyers® for 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. Super Lawyers® is an attorney rating service that is nationally recognized throughout the legal community. The list represents no more than 5% of the attorneys in Texas. She is also AV® Preeminent™ Rated by MartindaleHubbell®, which is the highest rating an attorney can achieve. She was given the AV® Rating for her outstanding professional achievements in the fild of DWI law and her contributions to the legal community. She’s also received the highest rating of 10.0 by both AVVO and Justia.
Deandra graduated in 1990 from Trinity University in San Antonio with a B.S. in Business Administration. She earned her law degree from the SMU School of Law and was licensed by the State Bar of Texas in 1993. Having spent her last year of law school as an intern with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Offi, she began work there as an assistant district attorney in January 1994.
Deandra’s tenure as a prosecutor focused on DWI prosecution. Upon leaving the DA’s Offi, she opened her own criminal defense practice. Over the last 28 years she has represented hundreds of Texans charged with criminal offenses, including DWI, violent felonies and sex crimes. As a former prosecutor, she knows fisthand how to counter the prosecutor’s evidence and strategy.
Deandra has spent hundreds of hours in training courses and programs related to DWI defense and has completed the certifiation course to administer standard fild sobriety testing (SFST), the same National Highway Traffic fety Administration training course that teaches police offics nationwide how to identify drunk drivers during traffi stops. She has also completed the SFST Instructor course and taught the SFST practitioner course to other attorneys. In 2008, she completed coursework on DWI forensic blood and urine testing.
In 2011 she received a certifiate from the American Chemical Society in forensic chromatography. In 2012 she became a member of both the American Chemical Society and the American Academy of Forensic Science. Deandra earned the ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist Designation in 2015. In 2016 she completed both a Graduate Certifiate in Forensic Toxicolog y from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and a Master in Pharmaceutical Science—Concentration in Forensic Science from the University of Florida’s College of Pharmacy. In 2019 she joined the faculty at Axion Labs as an Assistant Chromatography Instructor.
Deandra is a former board member of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. She is a Charter Member and former president of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Currently she serves on the board of the Dallas Women Lawyers Association and in 2022 she will begin serving a term as president of the Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
On a personal note, Deandra is a wife, the mom of two and has 5 rescue dogs. She spends a great deal of time working with dog rescues and is Vice President of Living the Doxie Dream Rescue & Sanctuary, located in Royse City, Texas. Deandra is a selfproclaimed “wine snob” who collects wine.
estate planning, wills and trusts, will contests, probate, guardianship, complex divorce, child custody, personal injury
The Ashmore Law Firm is a family-owned and operated, fullservice boutique law fim that has been serving the community for over 30 years. The fim was established in 1987 by Retired Probate Judge Joseph E. Ashmore, Jr. and his son, Gary Ashmore. Attorney Lori Ashmore Peters, Joe’s daughter, and Gary’s sister later joined the fim in 1996.
We provide you with cost-effective options and specifially focus on the individual needs of our clients.
As a client of The Ashmore Law Firm, you will benefit from over 134 years of combined legal experience.
“I can’t thank The Ashmore Law Firm enough. They gave me peace of mind helping me with my legal needs. They are professional and looked out for our interest.”
“As an attorney & businessman, I am pleased to share that Lori Ashmore Peters has the integrity & philosophies that are sorely needed in the legal profession today.”
When you work with The Ashmore Law Firm, you are working with attorneys that are passionate about going above and beyond for you. We believe that we can offer you the best possible legal counsel within our community. You get the best of both worlds, a high level of service that the big law fims provide, with the individualized attention of a smaller practice.
(214) 559-7202 www.ashmorelaw.com
805 N. Travis St., Ste. 400 Sherman, TX 75090
(903) 813-8500
www.craigwatsonlaw.com
estate planning, probate, elder law, guardianship
Craig Watson’s legal practice focuses on the areas of estate planning, probate, elder law and guardianship matters. He serves clients with large taxable estates as well as small non-taxable estates. His estate planning work includes the preparation of simple Wills and Revocable Trusts as well as complex estate plans involving By-pass Trusts and Marital Trusts. Craig also designs estate tax-sensitive plans that include charitable trusts, life insurance trusts, educational trusts, LLC’s and family limited partnerships. Craig’s probate practice is similarly broad and may include anything from probating a small estate all the way up to preparing and filing a federal estate tax return for a large taxable estate. As an elder law attorney, Craig handles nursing home Medicaid qualifiation, guardianships, wills, powers of attorney and medical authorizations for elderly clients.
Craig is a member of the Special Needs Alliance, a national, invitation only organization of attorneys committed to serving the legal needs of disabled individuals. Craig is certifid as an Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation, which is recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is a Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and the Texas and Grayson County Bar Associations. He graduated from SMU School of Law in 1989 with a Juris Doctor degree. Prior to that, he practiced as a CPA in Dallas for four years after graduating with a degree in Accounting and concentration in Finance from Baylor University in 1982.
Craig is married and lives on a farm west of Sherman where he raises cattle.
criminal defense
Christie Merchant is a straight-shooting and compassionate attorney who has spent the majority of her career practicing criminal law. Christie started her profession as a prosecutor in East Texas where she represented the State of Texas in cases involving misdemeanor offenses, Child Protective Services, and in cases on appeal where individuals sought to challenge the validity of their convictions. As a young prosecutor, Christie argued before the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and won and has maintained her passion for appellate advocacy ever since.
Shortly after her win in Austin, Christie became a staff attorney for the Twelfth Court of Appeals in Tyler. As a staff attorney, she honed her research and writing skills, and learned how judges approach the cases before them. After nearly four years with the Court, Christie moved to Dallas in 2016 where she began practicing criminal defense.
Since becoming a criminal defense attorney, Christie has represented numerous clients at the trial and appellate court levels in both state and federal court. She has been a speaker for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, been recognized as one of D Magazine’s Best Lawyers and Best Lawyers Under 40, and has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star two years in a row.
Christie has primarily served clients in the DFW area. In 2020, she expanded her practice to include an office inyler where she primarily serves as counsel for individuals seeking to appeal their convictions. Whether you have needs in the metroplex or East Texas, reach out to Christie by phone or email to set up a consultation!
DALLAS LOCATION
17304 Preston Rd., Ste. 1250
Dallas, Texas 75252 (214) 538-7393
EAST TEXAS LOCATION
2702 E. Fifth St., #735
Tyler, Texas 75701 (903) 747-0784
christie@merchlaw.com
family law, divorce, pre-nuptial agreements, child support, wills, trusts, estate plans
In court and out of court, Dana Christian Palmer, works to get families through the divorce process in the healthiest way possible. Mr. Palmer has received the Avvo.com 10.0 “Superb” rating for 2021 and numerous awards including “Best Family Lawyers in McKinney” for 2021 from Expertise, “Top 10 Family Law Attorney in Texas” from Attorney & Practice Magazine in 2019, 2020 and 2021, and “10 Best Attorneys” from the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys yearly from 2015 to 2021. Dana and the Palmer Law Group have handled thousands of family law cases with issues that include multimillion dollar property disputes and extremely hard child custody cases. Palmer Law Group is equipped to succeed at trial with the hardest cases, but they avoid court and get healthy results via negotiations more often than not. For clients who want healthy solutions, Palmer Law Group wants to end the fihting—even if they have a hard fiht. SoftDvorce.com®
Hard!®
franchise & distribution, litigation
Earsa Jackson is a dynamic leader with more than 23 years of experience practicing law. Chair of Clark Hill’s Franchise & Licensing team and the fim’s Diversity Committee, Earsa enjoys helping individuals and companies expand through franchising and licensing models. She regularly structures franchises and assists franchises with ongoing transactional needs in addition to handling business and commercial litigation matters.
She is the Chair of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Diversity Institute and was honored to receive the 2019 IFA “Ronald E. Harrison Diversity Award” at the 59th Annual Convention, an award that recognizes businesses and individuals who have made signifiant contributions to diversity in franchising either within their own franchise organization or within the franchise community.
Earsa has written and spoken extensively on franchise issues and is a member of the Governing Committee of the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising and a former Director of the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Division for the American Bar Association Forum on Franchising. She has been recognized among Best Lawyers in America and Who’s Who Legal. She is the co-author of Franchise and Distribution Law Developments 2016. She is an associate editor of the Franchise Law Journal.
She enjoys spending time with her husband of 26 years and their children as well as travelling.
About Clark Hill
Clark Hill is a multidisciplinary, international law fim that provides innovative legal solutions and client-service excellence worldwide. Its work is guided by its deeply held shared values, including practicality, entrepreneurship, mutual respect, diversity, ethical behavior, and a commitment to client and community service. Some of its signature practice groups include banking & fiancial services; corporate law; cyber security, data protection & privacy; labor & employment; litigation; real estate and tax & estate planning. Learn more at clarkhill.com.
Attorney Robin Forsythe’s estate planning practice focuses on helping families enhance their lives today and secure their futures tomorrow. She excels in guiding her clients through the often-confusing maze of fiancial and legal decisions to create plans that ensure the well-being of their families and the accomplishment of cherished family goals. Her considerable legal expertise includes family protection, wealth preservation, pet planning and values-based planning as well as planning strategies for unmarried couples and divorced individuals. Whether you are married or single, with a traditional family or blended one, just starting out or looking back on a life welllived, Robin will help you craft a lan that achieves your goals for your loved ones today and for years to come.
Robin started her career as a Special Investigative Agent for the Kentucky Department of Revenue after graduating Magna Cum Laude from Kentucky State University with a bachelor’s in Business Administration with an Accounting Emphasis and a Minor in Finance. There she investigated Criminal Tax Fraud in both individuals and businesses. She also performed joint investigations with local, state, and federal law enforcement bodies and sat on multiple task forces. Robin attended law school part time while working for the state and graduated from Northern Kentucky University’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law in 2014. She worked for Toyota North America for four years in their accounting, supply chain and sales departments working on large projects including moving the supply chain function to the United States from Japan and leading their Annual Plan for North America. In 2018 Robin and her husband moved back to Texas and Robin joined a Dallas based CPA fim providing Tax Controversy services to clients struggling with IRS issues. In 2019 Robin set out on her own to provide clients with flat fee-based practice for Tax Controversy and Estate Planning.
Robin’s love of Estate Planning started in her undergraduate career knowing how difficult life can be when a family member dies without a will or even any clear instructions. Her own father passed when she was a senior in high school and saw the rift t can create in families. Robin knows the value of planning for a death or incapacity in your family. Your kids, pets, friends, and family need clear instructions from you to see your dreams, goals and ideas through.
Robin lives in Princeton, TX with her husband Cory and 4-year-old daughter Taylor. She’s also the loving owner of a corgi cross, Chewy, a corgi Hamilton, and an Appaloosa horse named ‘Appyness. Robin is an avid Tennis player and dressage rider.
litigation work
Rawlins Law Firm, LLC represents individuals across the state of Texas. Our fim specializes in providing representation to individuals and companies helping recover Diminished Value on their automobiles.
When your personal or company vehicle is involved in an accident and subsequently repaired, it will have an inherent lost value due to the loss history on the vehicle. When another person’s negligence causes the accident, you have the right to recover the lost value directly from that person’s insurance company.
Get in touch with us to set up a consultation to inquire whether our services are right for you. We at Rawlins Law Firm know that fiding the right attorney to represent you is a choice not to be taken lightly. That’s why we offer free consultations to walk you through your needs, the scope of your goals, and your budget.
family law, divorce, child custody, prenuptial agreements, property division, paternity
FAMILY LAW IS NOT ONLY WHAT WE DO. IT’S ALL WE DO.
With more than thirty proven attorneys in four office across North Texas, KoonsFuller is one of the largest family law fims in Texas and the Southwest. KoonsFuller Family Law offers clients a level of legal representation and range of resources unmatched by any other family law fim. Whether your case calls for informal negotiations, mediation, collaborative law or court proceedings, KoonsFuller is equipped to handle cases of all sizes and issues and has been doing so for over 40 years. The Plano attorneys pride themselves on the compassion, skill, and thoughtfulness they bring to each case. They understand that every family is unique and every family’s concerns are different, especially when divorce, custody issues, and fiances are involved.
Working together, as a fully integrated team, there is no case too large or complex for us to manage. To learn more about KoonsFuller, visit koonsfuller.com.
ROBERTSON SHAREHOLDER Voted 2022 Top Lawyer
(Principal Office) 1717 McKinney Ave., Ste. 1500 Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 871-2727
W. Eagle Dr., Ste. 200 Denton, TX 76201 (940) 442-6677
elder law, estate planning, probate, guardianship, public benefits planning, probate and fiduciary litigation
As partners at Leu & Peirce, PLLC, a preeminent Elder Law fim in Plano, Lori Leu, Erin Peirce, and Lauren Olson are committed to providing quality, compassionate, and dignifid services to their clients. Their boutique practice focuses on protecting seniors through estate planning, long-term care decisions, public benefits eligibility, including Medicaid and VA benefits, probate administration, heirship proceedings, Will contests, and guardianships.
Lori Leu, a Certifid Elder Law Attorney (CELA), graduated from Kansas State University and Harvard Law School. After practicing commercial litigation and telecommunications law, Lori attended SMU Perkins School of Theology and, in 2008, realized her calling of serving seniors and their families through the practice of Elder Law. Lori grew up in a small town in Kansas and raised her family in Plano.
Erin Peirce graduated from Texas A&M University and South Texas College of Law. Erin was raised in Houston and moved to Dallas in 2007. Prior to joining Lori Leu in 2011, Erin practiced commercial litigation, which now enables her to advocate for her client’s rights and defend against elder abuse and exploitation in the Elder Law arena.
Lauren Olson began practicing with Leu & Peirce in 2013. Lauren is a Plano native and graduate of Saint Louis University and SMU Dedman School of Law. Lauren’s background as a social worker and member of AmeriCorps forms the foundation of her compassion and mission to help the community and the families served at Leu & Peirce.
The experienced and talented team at Leu & Peirce is devoted to empowering seniors and their families with advice on issues of housing, fiancial well-being, healthcare, and the ultimate disposition of assets, enabling their clients to plan for the future and age with grace and dignity. Along with their dedicated support staff, Lori, Erin, and Lauren focus all of their energy on making the legal aspects of aging easier for their clients. The emerging practice of Elder Law encompasses a variety of legal challenges experienced by seniors and their families, as well as those with special needs, and the attorneys at Leu & Peirce are committed to serving the unique needs of each client.
When you need top quality parts and service, look to Plano Power Equipment.
To keep your equipment in top shape, you can count on Plano Power Equipment’s retail pats sales and servicing of Toro®, Echo®, Scag®, equipment using genuine manufacture parts.
Experience the residential zero-turn riding mower with commercial mower features.
Palmer Law Group, P.C. is a family law, estate planning, and probate law firm that provides legal advice, negotiation, and litigation services to individuals and families who want healthy family relationships; and, for families who want good ways to protect their families and pass their legacy on to their loved ones. CALL (214) 789-4735 TO SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION.
Telephone consultations are available for $197.00 for up to 1 hour. Zoom and in-person consultations are available for $297.00 for up to 1 hour. In-person meetings are available but only by appointment due to Covid-19.
Palmer Law Group, P.C. is a proud member of the SoftDivorce. com©, HardDivorce.com©, PhysicianDivorce.com© and HealthyEstatePlan.com© networks.
“A–DANA C. PALMER