Argyle Living Magazine June 2020

JUNE 19, 2020 JULY 17, 2020 Dental Issue

THE

FUTURE OF

DENTISTRY Direct Mailed to the Following Areas:

Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch

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ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo

Advertising

Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene Cayla Thompson

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469.583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Letters

Argyle Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become

It’s

Summertime SO MAKE IT ONE TO REMEMBER

S

ummer is finally here, and I’ve got to tell ya, it’s about time!

Not only am I looking forward to things slowing down just a little bit so that Scott and I can hang out with the kids more, but I am eagerly awaiting more consistent weather patterns.

Yes, that means the North Texas sun will be beating down on us unmercifully at times. Still, it also means long days outside by the pool, road trips to wherever our budget will allow, hanging out on the patio grilling steaks and burgers, and ice cream dripping down sticky fingers. I can see and feel all of that right now. Can you?

Good … so let’s make the most of it — especially as we hopefully reach a turning point in the fight against the coronavirus.

One thing that always works for me is to live in the moment and make the most out of each day of summer that I have.

Here are a few simple tips to make the most out of yours: •

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Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Argyle Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Some articles

and/or content may be sponsored by

advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily

reflect the opinion of the publisher. Argyle Living is not responsible for omissions or

•

Have a camp out in the backyard: A friend of mine did this last summer with their little ones, and it wasn’t anything too elaborate. They simply set up shop on the trampoline in their backyard, put out a few citronella candles to repel mosquitos, and stared into the starry night sky until they drifted off to sleep. Trust me … the kids will love it.

Plan something you’ve never done before: Have a family sit down and choose a few road trips or local activities you’ve never done together

before. Just be mindful of social distancing guidelines.

•

Master a new skill or talent:

This can be for you or the kids.

The kids never want to stop trying new things, and adults need to

remember they can still learn new tricks at any age. A friend of mine

said he’s going to teach his littlest

son how to ride a bike this summer,

and another said she would train for a half marathon. The possibilities are endless.

•

Check-in on your 2020 goals:

June is the midway point of the year, and if you set goals for

yourself back in January, it’s time to see where you are and if you need to play any catch-up.

What ideas do you have for this summer?

information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its

agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may

be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2020 Murray Media Group

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Sincerely, Kelly Murray Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com

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HARVEST

TEEN

COUNCIL L

by Brooke Ezzo | photo courtesy of Page Austin

ifestyle Director, Page Austin, has been bringing residents of the Harvest community together through fun and unique events for the past five years. In the beginning, gathering adults and preteens was a breeze. But getting the teenage group to come to organized events was a task.

“We get to know more people and it gives us some ways to serve the community,” Hannah said. “We meet every month to talk about service projects and what events we want to hold for teens in the neighborhood.”

Each year, the council hosts three community events that benefit the community’s philanthropy — the North Texas Food Bank.

“They do Hoops for Hunger, which is a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Last year, we had 25 teams and donated 1,600 meals,” Page said. “They do a summer peanut butter drive, and last year donated 300 pounds. There is a Halloween fundraiser, and last year they donated 2,000 meals to the food bank.”

Reigning Hoops for Hunger champion and former Teen Council President Hunter Parris said he joined the council when he was a freshman in high school. He is very thankful to be apart of it.

“The council helps to teach kids a lot of responsibility by being in charge of setting up events and following through,” Hunter said. “We do a lot of fun things that kids may not normally be able to do outside of the council.”

Recognizing the want for activities that would engage the teens in the neighborhood, Page put her thinking cap on and came up with a great idea.

“I thought if I created a teen council similar to student council, that would get more participation,” Page said.

In 2016, Page and several teens in the community started the Harvest Teen Council. Page would help out where needed, but the teens would have full ownership of the council. The elected President would run the meetings and the members would put together events and fundraisers throughout the year.

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“They would come up with the events and ideas that are fun and cool,” Page said. “My common phrase is, ‘if this is lame, it’s because you are lame.’

The teens love that.”

Because of the enthusiasm over the years, the council has grown not only in membership but also in the number of events and service projects.

Hannah Wood, Harvest resident and recent graduate of Argyle High School, said the Teen Council allows teens to get more involved in the neighborhood and gives her age group ways to all be together.

Activities the council has put together include laser tag, a putt-putt event, poolside movies, and much more. As they work together to create these events while learning how to successfully fundraise for service projects, these students are gaining skills that will last them a lifetime.

“This council doesn’t just plan fun events and give back,” Page said. “It also helps teens make friends, create a sense of belonging, and grows them in leadership.”

Anyone is welcomed to join the Harvest Teen Council, and they are encouraged to do so by reaching out to Page Austin.

“I just want people to step out of their comfort zone and join the council because I promise you it will come back tenfold,” Hunter said. “You’ll be really appreciative that you did it.” www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

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Ask The Expert: Gardening

SUMMER TEMPS COMING SOON

W

by PJ Kratohvil, Owner of Complete Solutions

e’ve had a beautiful-mild introduction to summer but I believe the warm air is here. It’s a good idea to pay a little extra attention to somethings going into this time of year to ensure your sod & landscapes are successful.

IRRIGATION With the average household spending 40 to 50% of its summer water-bill on irrigation make sure to be water wise. Everyone says water infrequently and deep but in most of our smaller lot communities you will experience

enormous amounts of run off, or water

loss, that never makes it into the ground.

Since all terrain is different make sure

you run a test on your irrigation. If you

find your only run a zone for a couple of

minutes before you see water run off then it’s going to be better to set your system up to run shorter times more frequently.

Also keep in mind that once established

your trees and shrubs need less water than the turf so adjust your controller accordingly.

MULCHING Mulching is one of the best ways to grow healthy plants and conserve water. 3” of mulch is typically a good amount. Remember to keep it as even as possible and do not to let it build up against tree trunks or bases of the plantings themselves.

CUTTING When it is hotter outside try to keep the amount you prune off of your shrubs as well as your lawn to a minimum. On your grass spaces letting the grass become a little taller/thicker will help hold moisture at the base of the sod, allowing you to water less and keep things greener in between cuttings.

INTERIOR: 972.539.8258 | EXTERIOR: 214.735.1363 | COMPLETESOLUTIONSDFW.COM

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BEING PART OF

THE CONVERSATION

C

by Brooke Ezzo

hief Emmitt Jackson and the entire Argyle Police Department have always been community focused and dedicated to serving and protecting the residents of this great town.

The shock over what has occurred this past month in many major cities across the nation, including our own downtown areas, has many residents wondering where the law enforcement office stands in regards to the protests and riots.

“I have been asked by multiple individuals, Argyle residents and non-residents alike, where we as a department stand on the events that are unfolding in our country. To be clear, we stand on the side of right.

Chief Jackson and his team strive to be approachable and available to residents for all issues. This includes being part of this particular conversation. Earlier this month, the Chief made a Facebook post on the Argyle Police Department’s page easing concerns.

We stand on the side of holding those that share our profession accountable, administratively and criminally if appropriate, when they violate the sacred trust that citizen’s place in us. We make no excuses for what we ALL saw occur in Minneapolis and we too are appalled.

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We stand on the side of respecting citizens’ constitutionally protected right to assemble and voice their

dissatisfaction with government, even if the part of government they are

dissatisfied with is us. We understand, some of us on a personal level, much of the frustration and anger that is

being felt and stand with those who

demand change. We do not stand with those who choose theft, arson or civil

unrest as their outlet for these emotions.

We stand for continuing the

shared conversation about how

we can improve as an agency and as a profession. We know that the

mindsets, of both citizens and police, which brought us to this moment, cannot move us forward from it.“ - Chief Emmitt Jackson The Argyle Police Department keeps their lobby doors open. For concerns and questions, please feel free to come in or call the Argyle Police Department nonemergency number: 940.464.7254

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Dental Article

BAD DENTAL

HABITS

by Contributing Writer

O

ur 32 adult teeth serve valuable purposes. They help us chew food and contribute to certain kinds of speech sounds. Although tooth loss can occur with age, we should practice good dental hygiene to hold onto our teeth as long as possible. When we begin losing them, it can affect the shape of the mouth, how we chew and digest food, the way we speak, and our general appearance. Avoid these bad habits to avoid losing your teeth.

“ You Don’t Have To Brush All Your Teeth Just The Ones You Want To Keep” — Anonymous Quote

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1

LIMITED BRUSHING

Dentists recommend brushing your teeth with toothpaste and clean water after eating. This includes snacks. In fact, many dentists discourage frequent snacking, as certain popular snack foods contain sugar or a crunchy texture that can harm teeth.

Even worse, people don’t typically brush their teeth after eating between meals.

If you can’t brush after snacking, at least privately rinse your mouth with water to remove some of the food debris or beverage residue.

2

RARE FLOSSING

Everyone should floss at least once a day if not after every meal. Flossing helps to remove food particles between the teeth and below the gum line where toothbrushes can’t reach. Regular flossing can keep your gums healthy by reducing or eliminating inflammation that may lead to periodontal disease.

3

NAIL BITING

Avoid chewing on your fingernails or ice, or anything else that can damage your teeth. Some people unconsciously chew pencils or other objects that can wear down their teeth or cause their bite to become misaligned. Don’t bite anything except dental-friendly food to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

4

USE TEETH AS SCISSORS

You might be tempted to break thread in two with your teeth if you don’t have a pair of scissors handy. Some people tear the rind off of citrus fruits with their teeth. Using your teeth as a sharp object to bite, peel, or cut non-food items may cause a tooth to chip, crack, or even get twisted over time.

5

HAVE BRUXISM

It’s not unusual to grind your teeth spontaneously, often due to nerves, frustration, or anger. Some people grind their teeth at night while sleeping and have little control over the habit. However, bruxism in any form can wear down your teeth edges and affect the way you eat and speak. Talk to your dentist about this problem if you have it.

By avoiding bad dental habits like these, you can protect your teeth and keep them in good condition for years to come. Take action now to practice effective dental hygiene and stop mistreating your teeth before they are permanently damaged.

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CROSSING C

The Finish Line

by Brooke Ezzo

ongratulations to the Argyle High School seniors who graduated at Texas Motor Speedway on Monday, May 18, 2020. Although the graduation ceremony looked different this year, the community rallied behind these students and showcased love and support.

salutatorian positions are usually selected

Students were donned in their cap and gown as family members watched from their vehicles on the 12-story-tall video board known as “Big Hoss.” The drive-in style ceremony provided the best overall option for the district in order to meet health guidelines and allow families to see their loved ones cross the finish line.

For Argyle High School, those students

Historically, the role of the salutatorian is to be the first speaker during the ceremony, and the valedictorian gives the final farewell before students receive their diplomas. The valedictorian and

considered the highest-ranking students academically among the graduating class. were named, and we would like to give a huge shout out to valedictorian, Sonali Gandhi, and salutatorian, John Robertson.

What an incredible achievement!

Since the ceremony was unconventional this year, we wanted to give these two students another opportunity to send a farewell message to their classmates.

SONALI GANDHI | Valedictorian Will be attending the University of Texas at Dallas, studying Biomedical Engineering “High school has been a time where we’ve all grown to be the person we are today. We’ve made countless memories and lasting relationships with our peers during these last four years. Although we may not see all of our classmates in the future, I hope that we can still reminisce on the experience we all share. I also hope that these experiences inspire us to follow our dreams and do what we love!”

JOHN (J.T.) ROBERTSON | Salutatorian Will be attending the University of Texas at Austin, studying Engineering, possibly mechanical or electrical “High School has been a place for us students to grow and learn. It’s in the past four years that we truly grew up and came into our own. College is a brand new adventure and we get to start new lives meeting new people. We need to make the most of the opportunity our high school education gave us and live our future lives to the fullest.”

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photos courtesy of Pamela Arrington

Thanks to the leadership at Texas Motor Speedway, these students were given a

proper graduation ceremony to celebrate all of their accomplishments. And Argyle students have plenty of them, including the positions of valedictorian and salutatorian.

based on their grade point averages and

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INSIDE COMMUNITY

ARGYLE SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS A tentative summer camp schedule for 2020 camps was released for planning purposes only. Argyle ISD is continuing to work with state officials and the UIL to determine if and when the district can host camps. More information to follow, stay updated on the athletics page of the AISD website, www.ArgyleISD.com.

THANKS CHAMPIONS ROTARY MEMBERS Thanks to the Champions Rotary Club members, they were able to raise enough money to donate bottles of water and Gatorade to the Justin, Northlake, Argyle, and Roanoke police departments.

Hydration is important!

INSIDE EDUCATION photo courtesy of Kelli McKinney

GOLDEN EAGLE PRIMARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR GOLDEN EAGLE WINNERS Each year the Argyle Education Foundation awards teachers from each campus with a Golden Eagle award, their version of Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to the incredible teachers who were named this year. Hilltop: Lisa West, Intermediate: Sarah Slaton, Argyle West: Victoria Netzelman, Argyle Middle: Jessica Day, and Argyle High: Deserae Good. Thank you for all you do! photo courtesy of Kelli McKinney

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As the result of a community-wide nominating process where fellow teachers, administrators and community members nominate teachers in recognition of their teaching excellence, this year’s Primary Teacher of the Year was awarded to Victoria Netzelman from Argyle West Elementary! Congratulations!

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HAWAIIAN FALLS NOW OPEN Just in time for summer, Hawaiian Falls is now open! There is a new activity pool with basketball hoops, lily pads, and in-water lounge chairs. New lounge chairs around the pool and lazy river with massive umbrellas. For the safety of staff and guests, they have added 40 hand-sanitizing stations throughout the park. Buy your passes online at, www.HFalls.com.

RENT OUT MOVIEHOUSE & EATERY Moviehouse & Eatery Flower Mound is staying closed to the public BUT they are offering small groups to rent out entire auditoriums starting at $20 per person.

This is a great alternative for birthday parties and celebrations. Admission gets you bottomless popcorn and soda, but the eatery’s scratch-made menu and handcrafted cocktails will be available for an additional cost. To book an event, contact Christy Razo at CRazo@Cinepolis.com. logo courtesy of Christy Razo

photo courtesy of Kelli McKinney

LISA MZ TEACHER EXCELLENCE AWARD The Lisa MZ Endowment Teacher of the Year award allows the Argyle Education Foundation to financially award the AISD teacher of the year. Congratulations to Deserae Good from Argyle High School for receiving Secondary Teacher of the Year and the Lisa MZ Endowment award!

WELCOME, MR. RICK HERRIN Argyle ISD welcomes Rick Herrin as the new Public and Community Relations Director. Mr. Herrin has an impressive communications background and is an Argyle native. We are excited to meet you and welcome you home! photo courtesy of Pam Arrington

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Business Spotlight

Creating A Culture

WHERE EMPLOYEES &

PATIENTS

THRIVE

by Steve Gamel

W

e’ve all gone somewhere, such as a restaurant, retail store, or even to the doctor’s office, and can tell that the employee assisting us doesn’t want to be there. They’re nice and all, and we get taken care of, but there’s this unmistakable feeling that they’re going through the motions until their shift ends.

We can all relate; it happens all the time.

Maybe you’ve even been that employee?

“It almost makes me feel guilty for even going in there,” said Awstin Gregg,

CEO and lead therapist at Connections Wellness Group. “Now,

imagine you’re dealing with a situation as

challenging as mental

health and the difference you would feel if the

employee or clinician treating you is happy, satisfied, invested,

can expect to be treated by at

Connections Wellness Group in Denton, which has invested in creating a culture where the employees, patients, and community thrive.

“THAT IS WHAT WE ARE ALL ABOUT, AND WE ARE UNAPOLOGETIC ABOUT IT.”

appreciated, and all their needs are

being met. Imagine the care you’d get

for something that for years you’ve felt ashamed or fearful to admit.”

That’s the type of employee patients

“That is what we are all about,

and we are unapologetic about it,” Awstin said.

From Day 1, Connections

Wellness has been reinventing the healthcare wheel. It

is that all-encompassing

medical plaza where with one

phone call, a patient can be treated for

everything from mental health and family

counseling to emergencies, primary care, and routine wellness and illness visits. It’s

a model that’s never been attempted in DFW, and to make that all work, you need top-notch talent who want to be there — from an office aid to the clinicians leading the charge.

“From my first day here, one of the things that stood out to me was the investment Awstin has in this organization and the direct connection with each individual,” said Jasmine Nunnelley, Director of Human Resources.

“It’s everything I learned about in HR, but when you get out in the real world, you just aren’t used to seeing it.”

Vianey Reinhardt, Vice President of Business Development, agreed.

“Every person feels 100% supported and encouraged. Wherever you are, you’re allowed to flourish to your full potential and be seen and appreciated for the gifts and talents you bring to the table,” she said.

And it’s working. Connections Wellness Group has a less than 1% turnover rate. They’ve created engagement and employee satisfaction committees and instituted unique new-hire packages, vacation packages, and mental health days. Their employees are living healthy lives outside of work, and when they are at work, they want to be there.

“We are intentional with the engagement we have with each other,” said Baqi Martin, Director of Outpatient Programs.

Connections Wellness is a story of growth — for the employees and their patients.

“People know that the people they refer to us will heal and become well every time,” Awstin said. “And we’re leaning on this fantastic team of leaders to make that all possible.”

940.222.2399 | ConnectionsWellnessGroup.com | 2701 Shoreline Dr., Ste. 151 • Denton, TX 76210

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A True Family Practice That’s Ahead of the Curve

by Steve Gamel photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

I

n a time when healthcare and wellness are becoming increasingly crucial, it is essential to consider care that goes beyond antiquated practices and looks to the future of medicine. Perhaps no one is more ahead of the curve in that department than Dr. Matt Artho and his team at Country Lakes Family Dental.

As a true family practice that sees patients as young as 9 months old to 90 years young, Country Lakes Family Dental has maintained its reputation as one of the most elite family dental practices in the area.

“The future of dentistry is upon us,” Dr. Matt said. “It is up to us as a profession to determine what the face of dental care will be while also exceeding the expectations of our patients.”

As owner and general dentist, Dr. Matt, as he is affectionately known to his patients, strives to utilize

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the industry’s advancements to provide

furnishings that make the office both safe

meticulous accuracy and a high

systems, state-of-the-art dental chairs with

background, this is no surprise.

“It’s fantastic how technology allows

a comfortable dental experience with standard of care. Considering his

and comfortable, including water filtration individual TVs, and digital radiographs.

Dr. Matt’s profile boasts a wealth of

patients to enjoy comfortable

engineer, Dr. Matt credits his technical

that dentists utilize the technology that

experience. As a former electrical

appointments, but it’s also important

comprehension to his past education.

is available to also improve the actual

However, as Dr. Matt explains, his desire

to fulfill his vocation on a

dental care and enhance

the outcome of the entire experience,” he said.

more personal level led

Safety efforts have been

Graduating from Texas

the preventative efforts of

Dr. Matt furthered his

sterilization and air

Education for General

room, aerosol evacuation

him into the dental field.

implemented to help in

A&M College of Dentistry,

COVID-19, including UV

education in an Advanced

filtration in every treatment

Dentistry (AEGD) residency.

during cleanings, and

He also served in the Texas Army National Guard,

achieving the rank of Major.

increased sterilization and PPE protocols.

Dr. Matt’s extensive

He served in a combat unit and medical

education allows him to truly be a

in combat casualty care, among other

in multiple areas, including cosmetic

exam to be accepted as a Fellow in the

endodontics, orthodontics, and geriatric

This is a feat that only two percent of

3D printing, patients enjoy the avoidance

command company, receiving training

one-stop practice as he is proficient

medical training. He also completed his

dentistry, pediatrics, implant dentistry,

Academy of General Dentistry this July.

dentistry. With all-digital impressions and

dentists nationwide achieve.

of uncomfortable “goopy” impressions,

He is also a long-standing member of the

pre-planned treatment of traditional and

ADA, TDA, the International Association of

Orthodontics, and the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics.

Through this experience, Dr. Matt has continued to advance his office with

allowing for more accurate, digitally

Invisalign orthodontic care as well as TMJ and sleep appliances.

His prosthetic scanners and milling

equipment also allow for precisely fitting same-day crowns without temporaries

or lab wait times and, with the assistance of 3D digital x-rays, also allow for the fabrication of implant surgical guides for meticulously placed dental implants.

With minimally invasive laser therapy, he can complete filling restorative treatments on children, and in certain adult situations, without anesthesia.

He can also complete lip and tongueties, clean implants, perform biopsies, handle mouth lesions, whiten teeth, and provide other amazing care.

The team at Country Lakes puts patients at their highest priority, focusing on treating every patient with the utmost kindness and professionalism. They’ve been named the Best of Denton County Family Dentist for seven years in a row!

“Each patient is a member of a family,” said Dr. Matt, a devoted husband and father of nine children. “It is important to us that we treat each individual as we would treat our own family members.”

Dr. Matt makes very clear the importance of using his vocation and practice as a beacon of community involvement.

A believer in education, Dr. Matt consistently sponsors multiple ISDs and school activities and currently sits as a VP board member for the Argyle Education Foundation. Having a place in his heart for the ill-treated and abused, he and his wife recently received The Hero Award from the local non-profit Ranch Hands Rescue.

Dr. Matt and the team at Country Lakes Family Dental are heading in the right direction. And so will you with one visit to their office.

940.455.7645 | www.CountryLakesDental.com | 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 200 | Bartonville, TX 76226

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Business Spotlight

Everyone Deserves A

HEALTHY BEAUTIFUL

SMILE

by Brooke Ezzo | photography by Whats That Guys Name?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUY T(whatsthatguysname.com)

L

eatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry holds themselves to a higher standard to deliver high quality beautiful restorations that are biologically compatible in an infection free zone. Dr. Samantha Leatherwood, D.M.D. and her team believe everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile that makes their spirit shine through.

Graduating from the Goldman School of Dental Medicine at Boston University and completing a residency at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, she was exposed to a comprehensive approach to dentistry.

This approach means Dr. Leatherwood and her staff focus on the most pristine oral environment for their patients by improving functionality and overall health.

NOMINATE US! June 10

July 8

diligence in customizing a treatment

plan that will fit your budget, your needs,

and your wants has led them to acquire a loyal following.

“The nature of what we do is incredibly intimate, it is really delicate to ask

someone to trust me,” Dr. Leatherwood said. “We work hard to have strong

relationships with our patients, and we are really fortunate to have ones that are so supportive and encouraging.”

Leatherwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry has reopened, and they are taking extra precautions to keep their patients safe.

“We look at it systemically. We can’t cherry pick one or two teeth because we look at how they all function together,” Dr. Leatherwood said.

“I focus on beautiful restorations that are biologically compatible and will last you as long as possible.”

Staggered appointment times, waiting

The level of care is what sets Leatherwood Dentistry apart from the rest. Their

the community that raised her and for the

in your car until your room is ready, and air purifiers that cycle through every 30 minutes are just a few of the many they have put in place.

As a Denton native, Dr. Samantha

Leatherwood is grateful to be caring for opportunity to give back.

940.220.5858 | www.leatherwooddental.com | 4400 Teasley Ln., Ste. 300 • Denton, TX 76210 www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

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COVID-19 CONTINUED

A

s everyone grappled with the many challenges wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, it immediately became evident to us how important it was to help our businesses, non-profits, and individuals impacted from this unforeseen phenomenon.

When Denton County received $147 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds from the $150 billion set aside for counties and cities with populations in excess of 500,000 in the federal government’s CARES Relief Act, helping residents recover became our top priority.

To help offset the economic impact suffered by many, the Denton County Commissioners Court created the Denton County CARES (Coalition of Agencies to Restore Essential Services) program designed to designate funds to address countywide concerns.

We also reached out to the United Way of Denton County and other local non-profit organizations to find out how we could help assist individuals where they need it most.

Our communities will soon receive funds based on a $55 per capita formula so they can cover COVID-19-related expenses. We also are working with them to develop additional business grants for businesses within their communities as well as continue to assist their non-profits to provide food and housing assistance.

Our communities will soon receive funds based on a $55 per capita formula so they can cover COVID-19related expenses.

The Court allotted funds in several categories, including business grants, housing assistance, and food as well as funds to help cover COVID-19-related costs incurred by non-profits and our more than 40 cities and towns.

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Let me assure you that none of these federal dollars will cover any revenue shortfalls for governmental entities – whether at the municipal or county levels. Commissioners Court employed experienced outside counsel to review federal guidelines and help us design

by Denton County Judge Andy Eads photo courtesy of Judge Andy Eads

specific processes to ensure these funds are spent exactly as intended.

In Denton County, our teams have worked long days, weekends, and holidays to keep you informed about everything related to COVID-19. From the first case through now, we have provided daily updates on positive cases, recoveries and, tragically, the deaths directly related to this insidious virus. In fact, we provided more information than many of our fellow counties. We have worked throughout this period to ensure online services were available where possible and reopened as soon as health officials and the state deemed it safe to do so.

Our Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Services Office, and Facilities Department worked collaboratively to ensure we have the proper Personal Protection Equipment available for employees and the public.

They installed special stations in hightraffic areas, plastic shields in face-to-face transaction areas, and signage to guide the public into and throughout our buildings.

Denton County Public Health increased the number of testing locations throughout Denton County. As of May 28, www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

state records show that more than

Normalization) to offer Denton County

local food supply as needs increase. In the

County. Currently, our Denton County

applications for up to $10,000 in grants.

opportunities for residents to find the

20,250 tests were conducted in Denton Public Health teams are providing at

least two testing centers each week –

one at the University of North Texas every

businesses an opportunity to submit

An estimated 1,337 businesses submitted grant applications

from May 13 through

Tuesday, with a second one at different

May 20. Our call

has also set up several testing centers in

calls and we received

be announced for the coming weeks

answers to questions

locations throughout the county. The state

center fielded 496

the county. Additional testing centers will

255 emails seeking

and months.

about the grant

Our Emergency Services Office also

supplied personal protection equipment (PPE) to our first responders as well as

hand sanitizer from Mary Kay’s Research and Development Facility and BENDT

Distilling Co., both in Lewisville, to our long-term care facilities. Soon, we will be working with the Denton County

Transportation Authority to provide our

non-profit organizations with an estimated 200,000 masks to help them as they

application process.

This month, we will

let businesses know

if they have qualified for grants and begin sending checks to

This month, we will let businesses know if they have qualified for grants and begin sending checks to assist them in the recovery process.

assist them in the

the organizations meet these needs by

funding grant requests submitted through the North Texas Cares program. To date, we have provided $1.06 million through the United Way of Denton County to

help our area 501c3 organizations. We

anticipate continuing this process as more grant requests come in.

In mid-May, we launched Denton County OPEN (Operational Plan for Economic

planning drive-thru

opportunities to pick up food boxes or

providing hot meals

to neighborhoods in

need through regional food trucks.

Through Denton

County CARES, we are also paying tribute to the memory of Gene

for our businesses countywide.

gave generously of his time and money

announce additional grant opportunities In the next few weeks, we will expand a

eviction. As of May 27, an estimated

assistance, we have worked to help

pantries with supplies,

Gumfory, a longtime Denton County

As our non-profits have seen tremendous

families who have never before requested

bolstering existing

recovery process. We will also soon

countywide housing assistance program

as much as a 400 percent increase from

nutritional food they need to feed their

families – whether by

continue to assist our residents.

growth in demand, some experiencing

coming weeks, we hope to create more

to provide more relief for residents facing $372,064 assisted 374 residents with rent,

business owner and philanthropist who

to support many programs over the years.

He established the Shiloh Field gardens,

which continue his desire to provide tens of thousands of pounds of produce to

feed the hungry among us. I want to offer

mortgage and utility payments or to keep

a heartfelt thanks to his wife, Lynn, for her

anticipate the need for housing relief will

in this manner. We believe these efforts

them housed in extended stay hotels. We

support in allowing us to honor Gene

continue to grow in the coming months.

continue his lifelong mission to help

In addition, we are currently working on

plans to expand food supplies to our local

people across the county in their journey to self-sufficiency.

non-profits as well as fill in across areas

As you can see, we are committed to

make sure no one in Denton County goes

need. We are certain that, together, we

school districts, around 45 pantries as

and move toward restoring our vibrant,

and even our area farmers to bolster our

we are Denton County Strong.

where food deserts exist so that we can

being there for you in this time of great

hungry. We are working with our local

can begin to recover from this pandemic

well as local food distribution companies

fast-growing economy. Because, together,

CONNECT WITH US If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. andy.eads@dentoncounty.com 940.349.2820. www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 27

OWNERS EXCITED

TO FINALLY BE

OPEN AGAIN

by Steve Gamel

W

hen Jesse James Leyva created Jesse James Fit in Flower Mound and all five of his Outlaw FitCamp franchises in North Texas, he envisioned providing a different experience from the typical big-box fitness centers on every street corner. More importantly, he wanted people to have a sense of belonging, regardless of where they were in their fitness journey.

shutdown. Flourish is the epitome of a simple, small-town salon where every stylist is your friend, and there weren’t many days that went by where stylists weren’t getting texts or phone calls from clients who simply wanted to check in on them.

So, naturally, Leyva felt powerless when

on the backend of Gov. Greg Abbott’s

to shut down due to the coronavirus.

weren’t allowed to reopen until May 8,

When Flourish was allowed to open again, the response was immediate.

to work a week later. Now that they are

“The first thing I did was make a list and call everyone personally,” Sanders said.

“I called people all the way up to 9 p.m. that first day; people were calling and texting me as I’m trying to call them.

And that was just the people who already had an appointment [that needed to be rescheduled].”

he, like many other businesses, was forced “When you’re a trainer, you’re also like a

therapist,” Leyva said. “People talk to us;

we are an outlet, and we motivate them.

Working out is like a drug, and it makes

them feel good. When you take that away, it can drive people mad.”

Leyva wasn’t allowed to open his training studio or boot camps for nearly two

phased plan to reopen Texas. Hair salons with gyms and fitness centers going back finally open and regaining a sense of

normalcy for themselves and their clients,

they’re only thinking of one thing: making up for lost time.

“We want everyone to know we are still here for them,” Leyva said.

months. In fact, gyms and hair salons —

Luckily, clients of both industries never

making everyone who walks through the

who owns Flourish Salon Suites in Lake

perhaps the two industries best known for door feel better about themselves — were

questioned that. Trista Ward Sanders,

Dallas, said she was bowled over by the

“Everyone has been so understanding,” Sanders said.

28 | ARGYLE LIVING

| JUNE 2020

support she and her

hair and beauty stylists

received throughout the

Sanders said she and her stylists have been busy every day since, and they’ve remained focused on being as safe as possible while taking the necessary precautions to avoid contamination.

Because each stylist has a private room at Flourish, it’s easier to sanitize according www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

to CDC guidelines and cater to each client’s needs. They are also working by appointment only, keeping the front door locked to avoid unnecessary foot traffic.

“Everyone has been so understanding,” Sanders said. “They really want their hair done. And when we’re done, they feel so much better about themselves. I enjoy the satisfaction of creating beauty and making people happy.”

Leyva couldn’t agree more. His wife, Tiffany, is just as invested in building their personal training business. But she’s also a long-time hairstylist. They understand the impact both professions have on people, which is why Leyva and the rest of his elite trainers did all they could to stay connected with their clients.

Throughout the shutdown, they were creating and sending out daily workouts, nutrition tips, and more to their social media followers. They also upgraded their facilities with digital thermometers and sanitation stations. At their Outlaw franchises, they reconfigured everything and even constructed 11x7 “cells” so that each client could have their own workout space while still being part of a group training session.

“Out of a pandemic, something amazing and awesome was happening,” Leyva said. “For the first week [three weeks before we opened], we invited people to come to the studio to give them a guided tour of what we had done so that we could put everyone’s mind at ease.

We had changed so much, but more importantly, we wanted to catch back up with them. The next week, we transitioned to outdoor workouts, and then on the 18th, we opened. Everyone was so ready to get back in there. It turned out pretty darn good.”

With pandemic shutdowns finally in the rearview mirror, the only thing Leyva and Sanders are interested in doing now is looking forward to what the future holds.

“We’re still getting caught up right now,” Sanders said. “But we’ll get there.” www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 29

Nine Spur Ranch:

A HEART FOR ANIMALS

by Brooke Ezzo

T

hey say winding roads often lead to beautiful destinations. That rings true not only for the rehabilitated animals that find their way to Nine Spur Ranch in Argyle but also for the incredible owner and operator.

Shishana Rourke has an amazing journey of her own. Born in the Caribbean, she was the first child legally adopted into the United States from St. Lucia. She was raised in Alaska but as part of the adoption agreement was able to travel to see her biological family every two years.

For the last few years, she had been working for a company that recruited her here to Texas to work in equine reproduction. That is until she felt the nudge to quit her job and turn her attention to caring for and rehabilitating in-need animals.

“I thought, can I make this work?

What am I going to do?” Shishana said.

“And now, there is no question in my mind that this is what I am supposed to be doing.”

A few months ago, someone reached out to Shishana asking if they could come out and see the animals.

She wrote a post on Facebook about

offering free, private tours of the ranch, and it immediately took off.

“It’s been such a blessing, the community has been so supportive,” Shishana said. “I’ve only been doing the tours for two months now, and people have really enjoyed it.”

When you come to Nine Spur Ranch, you’re able to roam around, see the animals up close, and even feed the goats.

There is a zonkey, horses, a water buffalo named Hank, and a sweet potbelly pig named Petunia.

“It’s been fun to be raised by both sides and experience so many different things,” Shishana said.

“I have had some horses that you can tell are so happy to be here,” Shishana said.

She is one of two adopted into her Alaskan family, and she is one of 21 children on her biological family’s side.

This combination of different cultures has truly helped mold her into the caring, family-oriented, and determined person she is today.

Her future goals for the ranch include offering programs to schools where children who need help with speech are able to read to the miniature horses. She also wants to be an educational tool and resource for the community when it comes to taking care of and owning animals.

From a young age, she’s had a passion for animals, especially horses. At 10 years old, after saving all of her money, her parents allowed her to purchase her first horse.

“She was a Haflinger named Lenanna,” Shishana said. “I poured my life into this little horse. I taught her how to say yes and no, to bow, to lay down, and to roll over.”

30 | ARGYLE LIVING

| JUNE 2020

Lenanna was pregnant, and once the foal was born, Shishana spent the next four years training him. This was the start of the path that has led her to where she is today.

Shishana graduated with a degree in Horsemanship and a minor in Management from the University of Montana Western, the agriculture branch off of Missoula. She also received an associate’s degree in Equine Science, working with embryo transfers and the reproduction process.

Shishana rehabilitates unwanted, forgotten, and abused animals back to life. Some stay at the ranch and others are sold to new, loving homes. These animals might travel winding roads, but Nine Spur Ranch is a beautiful destination.

For a private tour, visit www.Facebook.com/NineSpurRanch. www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 31

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www.ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

J2 Steakhouse: Foodie Friday DFW

J2 STEAKHOUSE T photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

hose of you who have been in the area for a long time probably remember the old days when the Lewisville Feed Mill was open and was an integral part of the local community. These days, the old feed mill looks a little different. Now it’s a stunning, rustically-elegant restaurant called J2 Steakhouse that’s serving up some of the best food in the area.

Owner and Developer, Jim Murray – a resident of Hickory Creek and owner of the Prairie House Restaurant in Aubrey — took on the challenge of restoring the feed mill after it had been closed for more than five years.

The Lewisville Feed Mill closed in 2010 after being a hub of Old Town Lewisville for 124 years, originally opening as the Lewisville Feed Mill Livery Stable in 1886

by J.W. Degan.

Before opening the restaurant a couple of years ago, Jim and his team worked diligently to preserve the unique history contained within the walls of the feed mill.

At the back of the restaurant, you can still see the original mills and serving as the

focal-point of the well-stocked bar is a gorgeous mantlepiece that was crafted in the 1800s. They even created light fixtures using items found around the feed mill as they were restoring the building.

The menu at J2 Steakhouse is full of incredible dishes like high-quality steaks, barbecue, seafood, and an assortment of delicious sides that remind you of homecooking with a special J2 twist.

To complement their incredible food, J2 Steakhouse also has a fantastic lineup of cocktails, wines, and beers.

Two of their signature cocktails include the J2 Old Fashioned made with Old Overholt Rye Whiskey, Angostura Bitters, and a housemade simple syrup. And the

*During COVID-19 restrictions, J2 Steakhouse has opened their dining room with limited capacity and is also offering family take-out meals.

Texas Mirage made with silver tequila, a cucumber and jalapeno puree, and comes served with an ancho chile salt rim.

J2 Steakhouse is also the perfect place to host your private events. They have a stunning VIP room that seats 16 around the custom table made of wood from a live water oak off the Neches River in Central Texas. They also have a larger room that can accommodate up to 100 people for your larger parties.

This restaurant is really a beautiful sight, so head down to J2 Steakhouse to view all the beautiful updates and upgrades Jim and his team made to the old feed mill.

You’ll feel like you’re taking part in a little piece of history!

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

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JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 33

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HELPING TEENS WITH HEALTH

SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS

by Dr. Rebecca Butler, Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

I

make you breathe harder and get your

heart rate up. Walking, biking, dancing, swimming, participating in organized

sports, and weightlifting are a few ways

to get moving and your heart pumping.

The important thing is to find something that they enjoy doing and stick with it. # 3: Chill Out Teens often feel stressed by school, work, and other things that come

up. Teach them to manage stress by exercising, eating a healthful diet

regularly, and getting enough sleep.

Engaging in relaxation techniques such

as meditation and yoga and decreasing

negative self-talk may also reduce stress

levels as life becomes increasingly more complex. Have them, literally, “make

t is important to empower your adolescents to make healthy lifestyle choices as young as possible. As your teen is getting older, they start to make more and more decisions for themselves; making healthy safe choices now can develop healthy habits for life. A great place to start is teaching them that taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental health is what makes it possible for them to accomplish the goals they set out to achieve.

YELLOW (sometimes foods) represents

#1: Fuel Up! No matter how hard you may try, ultimately, they are in charge of what they eat and drink. The traffic light system can be a helpful tool in guiding food and drink choices. It divides foods by the colors of a traffic light: GREEN (anytime foods) represents lowcalorie foods that are high in nutrients and can be eaten freely (fruits and vegetables).

foods that are high in calories but also

high in nutrients (nuts, cheese, and grains).

RED (once-in-a-while foods) represents high-calorie foods that do not provide

a lot of nutrients (desserts, fried foods, and soda).

Give them other tips such as; eating on

a date with themselves” to do something they love EACH day that decreases their stress. Activities such as yoga,

reading, calling a friend, listening to

music, writing, or spending time with a pet can help with stress management. #4: Catch Some Zzzs Getting enough good-quality sleep is an

important part of staying healthy. Aim for

8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Remove

televisions and screens from the bedroom, including cell phones and laptops when schoolwork is complete. #5: Set Goals

a smaller plate (like a salad plate) with

Learning how to set and stick to goals

vegetables and choosing water to drink

goal and write it down. List the things that

half of the plate consisting of fruits and with meals.

#2: Get Moving Being active helps you to feel and sleep better. Aim for 60 minutes of physical

activity a day. Most of the activity should

is an important life skill. First, identify a

need to be completed to obtain that goal and start working on each one in order of priority. When a goal has been met,

celebrate with a nonfood reward, such as spending the day with a friend, buying a new water bottle, going on a hike, etc.

940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com

74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm | Fri: 7:30am-5pm | Sat: 9am-12pm

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JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 35

SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

ASSISTANT CHIEF DEPUTY BARRY CAVER

A

ssistant Chief Deputy, Barry Caver, was raised in the Lufkin, TX area where he graduated from high school and attended Stephen F. Austin State University.

Caver is a graduate of the 201st session of the FBI National Academy and holds a Master Peace Officer License and a Jailer License.

Chief Caver has been in law enforcement

Besides being instrumental for the Denton

1976 when he was hired as a dispatcher/

pandemic, Chief Caver has many notable

for 43 years, which began in December jailer for the Angelina County Sheriff’s

Department in Lufkin, Texas. On January 1, 2017, Caver was appointed by Sheriff Tracy Murphree as the Assistant Chief

Deputy with the Denton County Sheriff’s Office, where he currently leads as Jail Administrator.

36 | ARGYLE LIVING

| JUNE 2020

County Jail in dealing with the COVID-19 accomplishments throughout his career.

Caver assisted in the primary investigation of the Branch Davidian compound siege

M U R P H R E E of Texas, which lead to a stand-off near Fort Davis, Texas in 1997. Chief Caver was also the commanding officer and incident commander on the raid on the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints’ compound near Eldorado, Texas in 2008.

Denton County Sheriff’s Office is

extremely honored to have the experience and integrity of Chief Barry Caver on our Command Staff!

as commanding officer and lead hostage

940.349.1600 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 DENTON, TX 76205

a separatist group known as the Republic

DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

near Waco, Texas in 1993. Caver served

negotiator during the incident involving

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JUNE 2020

| ARGYLE LIVING | 37

ARGYLE COACHING LEGEND

COMES OUT OF

RETIREMENT

by Steve Gamel

W

hen Skip Townsend announced his retirement shortly after leading the Argyle girls basketball team to its third straight state championship in 2017, no one expected the coaching legend to change his mind.

Not even Townsend had that decision drawn up on his clipboard. But like all things, it’s best never to say never.

Ranger women’s coach, Bill Foy, and former men’s coach, Billy Gillispie.

“We still thought that was pretty farTownsend, who compiled a 1,081-395 fetched,” Townsend told the Denton record and won nine state titles during Record-Chronicle on May 5 about him his 44 years as a high and his wife, Sammye, school basketball coach, possibly coming out of I’VE BEEN A HEAD is now the new head retirement. “But we went women’s basketball coach COACH FOR 44 YEARS. up and met all the people at Ranger College in at Ranger, and after that, I KNOW HOW TO RUN Eastland County. Ranger I just couldn’t turn the THE PROGRAM AND went 22-8 last season GET AROUND KIDS. I’VE job down. Everybody you and climbed as high as meet up there — it’s a great GOT A CULTURE. WE No. 21 in the NJCAA place. It’s awesome.”

JUST HAVE TO GET THE national rankings.

The new job appears to CULTURE IN THERE. “ Townsend said he was be the perfect situation approached by former for Townsend, who will

38 | ARGYLE LIVING

| JUNE 2020

once again be flanked by Sammye, who also acted as his assistant coach at Brock and Argyle. The happily-married couple has been living a quiet retirement life in Graford on Possum Kingdom Lake, which isn’t far from Ranger. For Ranger, they have the luxury of replacing one decorated coach with another. Foy led the Lady Rangers to three straight appearances in the NJCAA Region V tournament, and it is expected that Townsend will transfer his success to the college ranks.

Townsend led Argyle, which had only been to one state tournament in its history, to four straight state title game appearances — winning three of them. He was inducted into the Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016 before his coaching career had even ended. In 2018, the Texas Girls Coaches Association inducted him into its Hall of Fame.

Along with Sammye, Townsend said Kamy London, who played for Townsend at Brock and won four state titles before playing collegiately at TCU, will also be on his Ranger coaching staff.

“It’s going to be a hands-on deal,” Townsend told the DRC. “I’ve been a head coach for 44 years. I know how to run the program and get around kids.

I’ve got a culture. We just have to get the culture in there. We’re going to go in there the first day and lay the rules down. The next day, we’re getting the basketballs out, and it’s going to be hardnosed basketball from then on. That’s all I know. And have some fun.”

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