Life in Castle Hills Magazine November 2018

CHRISTMAS BOOK

For Young Readers

MORE THAN

NO-SHAVE

November

Just Veins

NOVEMBER 16, 2018 - DECEMBER 14, 2018

Env y The

OF

TO

WN

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LEWISVILLE, TX PERMIT NO. 977

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

Ask The Expert: Fitness

YOUR GUIDE TO

EATING

Red wine. Stick to one glass, and drink responsibly.

ENTREES:

This is where the real damage is done.

When you order something carb-loaded you leave the restaurant feeling heavy and lethargic—you may not even realize this until you start eating better and experience the light, energetic way you’ll feel after eating a healthy meal.

Don’t Order Pasta. I don’t care if it comes with a red sauce or white sauce, meat or veggies.

If you’re trying to lose weight and maintain a lean body, then don’t order a plate of pasta.

HEALTHY APPETIZERS:

Appetizers are a great way to start out a leisurely meal, but can also quickly derail your good intentions.

Don’t Order:

Anything fried. Fried foods are a favorite but will do damage that even the most intense workout won’t undo.

Creamy dips. These are filled with fat and

BEVERAGES:

Calories in drinks are sneaky because they don’t fill you up. This means that you end up taking in far more calories than you bargained for.

Don’t Order

Regular or diet soda. On the one hand, you’re drinking corn syrup through

a straw, on the other you’re drinking

chemicals that cause you to crave sweets.

usually come with something fried to dip

It’s a no-win situation.

in it.

Sweet cocktails. Many restaurants are

Bread. It comes smothered in cheese or seeped in butter, and even when it’s plain, it fills you up with more carbohydrates than your body needs.

Do Order:

Green salad. Ask for very light dressing and no croutons.

Antipasto. A plate of thinly sliced meats, olives and cheese will start you off with some protein.

Lettuce wraps. These are delicious, protein-filled and low in carbs.

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

advertising sweet cocktails –resist the

urge. Sugar plus alcohol equals loads of unneeded calories.

Sweetened tea. You may feel righteous

for ordering iced tea, but if it’s sweetened, then you may as well be drinking fully loaded soda.

Do Order

Pizza. Another dish that has far more carbohydrates than you need. If you’re craving the pizza toppings then simply order those over a salad.

Burgers. If you really want a burger then ditch the bun and the fries, and have your patty wrapped in lettuce.

Do Order: Lean meat with vegetables. Fish, steak, chicken, take your pick and pair it with green vegetables.

Salad with protein. Ask for very light dressing and make sure you have a nice piece of protein on it.

Soup and salad. Stick with broth-based soups that contain protein and pass on the breadsticks.

If you want to expedite your results, then consider working with one of our professionals on a detailed fitness plan including nutrition guidance that will help you reach your desired results and turn you into a fat burning machine.

Call or email today- We look forward to hearing from you.

Water. Don’t laugh! Water is the best beverage of all.

Unsweetened iced tea. Don’t ruin it by adding that packet of sugar. Learn to

enjoy the natural sweetness to the tea.

by Jesse J. Leyva, Owner of Jesse James Fit & Outlaw Fitcamp JesseJamesFit.com OutlawFitcamp.com

#22KILL

GALA

2

by Susan Neuhalfen

2Kill held its annual gala on Saturday, September 22 at Venue Forty 50 in Addison. Approximately 300 were in attendance at the event that raised nearly $300,000 for the nonprofit organization. Hershel “Woody” Williams, a Medal of Honor Recipient from World War II who served in the Battle of Iwo Jima, served as the guest of honor. #22Kill was created to help raise awareness about veteran suicide and the struggles that veterans face after transitioning from the military to civilian life. More veterans are lost to suicide here in the United States – approximately 22 per day - than to combat overseas. photography by Austin Miller

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

CastleHillsMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Emily Mitchell

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen

Advertising Manager

Lizzy Hoffman 972.900.7302 lizzy@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

Kim Ortiz Photography 972.814.9642 www.KimOrtiz.com

Letters

Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries Call 972.899.3637

or email artwork@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com

Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Life in Castle Hills 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. Life in Castle Hills is not responsible for omissions or 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. © 2018 Murray Media Group

Holiday Family

TRADITIONS: E veryone has their own holiday traditions. Maybe it’s going to church or caroling as a family on

Christmas Eve, wearing matching PJs on Christmas Day, or building a few gingerbread houses.

These and many others obviously differ

from family to family, but the point is, we all have them. And as we inch closer to

Thanksgiving, and eventually Christmas, I can’t help but have a few on the top of my mind.

Oh, the memories I have of watching them wake up and be so excited to see magic sparkle dust! Oddly enough, I still do it occasionally. But now they just laugh at me.

it’s usually matching onesies – which,

Bottom line, it’s all in the name of our Murray Family traditions. They take part with smiles on their faces, and all of us never forget to leave out plenty of cookies and hot chocolate for Santa.

ask me since Konnor is 20 and Zach is 15.

So I ask, what are your family holiday traditions?

imagine the looks I get from that tall drink

Have a Very MURRAY Thanksgiving and Christmas!!

For years and years I have always made sure to get our kids a new pair of PJs

to wear on Christmas Eve. For the boys, honestly, is pretty darn hilarious if you

Konnor is a little over 6-feet tall, so you can of water. But it’s worth it; I know they love their mama.

When they were younger, my way of

ensuring they went to bed early was to

tell them that when they are asleep, their bodies produce magic sparkle dust. The

sparkle dust covers the roof, and when the 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

roof is completely covered, that’s when Santa knows it’s OK to come down the chimney. To give the full effect, I would then get glitter from Hobby Lobby and sprinkle it on the kiddos and their pillows while they slept.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

16

30

On the Cover: Massage Envy Team

FEATURED:

The Envy Of Town

ASK THE EXPERTS

ARTICLES

04 Fitness with Jesse James Fit

08

10 Organization with Cloud Nine Organizing

No-Shave November: What is It and Are You Doing It Right?

10

14 Reading with Reading Ranch Tutorial Center

Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

12

Inside Community

24 Edit This with Steve Gamel

13

Inside Education

18

Foodie Friday with Jay Marks Real Estate

20

Fall Fashion with The Palm Tree Boutique

23

Giving Back This Holiday

PHOTOS FROM CASTLE HILLS

25

Pet Adoption of the Month

25

Holiday Worship Services

05

28

Pet Spotlight: Makai Makana

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 22 The Wright Firm: The Wright Choice 26 Flower Mound Vein Center: More Than Just Veins...

#22Kill Gala

EDITORS PICK: Christmas Book for Young Readers

THIS MONTH:

We’re focusing on style. Look for the icon to find out what’s hot this season in the fashion / makeup industry.

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

Style Article

?

WHAT IS IT, AND ARE YOU DOING IT RIGHT

by Steve Gamel 8 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

A

sk the average guy on the street what No-Shave November is, and he’ll likely say it’s the one time out

•

medicine cabinet and skip shaving for an

34 years.

•

entire month.

The stories of what happens next run the gamut. Some guys will end up with the

most common cancer

in young men ages 15 –

of the year where it is socially acceptable for all men to leave their razor in the

Testicular cancer is the

More than three times

as many men as women

die by suicide in the U.S. •

Men are 24 percent less

best beard or mustache known to man –

likely than women to have

actor like Jake Gyllenhall – all in a matter

past year.

visited a doctor within the

think the late Burt Reynolds or a younger of 30 days, while others will either have

furry patches randomly spaced out across their face or nothing beyond cute peach

fuzz. While it’s fun to see guys take on the

challenge each year, the original answer is only part of the story.

So now that you’re armed with this

valuable information, how can you make sure this November is done right?

•

Here are a few tips: •

Raise Awareness – Whether or not you

Yes, No-Shave November means you

knew the true purpose of No-Shave

But the whole point of this movement

What matters is spreading the word.

November before now doesn’t matter.

don’t have to shave for an entire month. is to raise awareness for men’s health.

When people notice you are getting

Just like October is Breast Cancer

a bit shaggy, tell them why. In

Awareness Month, November

today’s modern world, you

raises awareness for men

could even post before

– specifically, testicular,

and after photos

prostate, and colon

on social media,

cancers.

or show your

transformation

It’s a big deal, guys.

weekly. In each

Prostate cancer

post, let people

alone is the second-

know this is for

leading cause of

it’s a fantastic idea. If you’re not ready

•

Trim your neck and cheek line to keep it work appropriate.

job frowns on that, support someone

•

Use a form of lube, moisturizer, or beard oil. It is November, after all, and the temperature outside will get increasingly cold and dry. Again, many of these products can be found at your local salon.

•

cancer. Both the No Shave

social media – This is straight

from the no-shave.org website, and

millions of dollars to support research

and awareness projects for these forms

to get hairy, or you can’t because your

of cancers, yet the average guy likely has no idea.

•

Men in the U.S. die an average of five years earlier than women.

Set up your

own fundraising page on

Movember Foundation have raised

•

else’s page.

•

Put the money that you’ve saved

to good use – Because you’re not

spending money on shaving cream,

1 in 8 men in the U.S. will be

razors, etc., the idea is to take that

their lifetime.

research and awareness efforts.

diagnosed with prostate cancer in

Some recommendations from mustache and beard professionals include: Use a good mustache wax, which can be found at most convenience stores and even where you normally get your hair cut locally here in Denton County. Wax is great for helping you tame and style your facial hair.

men behind lung

According to the Movember Foundation:

Once you’ve made some steady progress on that new facial hair, make sure you take care of it and don’t let it get out of control. It is perfectly acceptable to trim an existing beard – especially if you’re a business professional – or make sure your new one isn’t growing too weird.

•

cancer awareness.

death in American

November Foundation and the

Get the women in your life involved – No, don’t expect your wife to grow a beard. But there are ladies out there who are willing not to shave their legs for the month to help spread the word.

money and put it toward cancer

So what are you waiting for? Grow that beard – and do it for the right reasons.

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Ask The Expert: Organization

Why You Should

ORGANIZE Your Holiday Decorations

B

eing organized always saves time, money, and frustration. This even applies to your holiday decorations.

The best time to get those decorations organized is when you are storing them away for next year.

At the end of every holiday, throw out all those old, broken, worn out decorations.

If it’s broken, do not donate it, because it will be of no use to anyone else.

Once you have decided what you are keeping, get those decorations organized.

SAVING TIME

Keep all holidays separate. Don’t

combine different holiday decorations

inside the same storage bin. You’ll waste

time digging through boxes trying to find what you’re looking for.

If you want to level-up your organizing game, use color-coding. Simply use different colored storage bins for each holiday.

SAVING MONEY

When you can find what you are looking

CORNER C

with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

Division. The Denton County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is primarily responsible for criminal investigations for crimes occurring in the unincorporated areas of Denton County, which has a population of over 100,000

SAVING FRUSTRATION It’s always frustrating when you can’t find something you are looking for. Being organized will prevent this annoying problem. You will know exactly where all your Thanksgiving decorations are because they are labeled and stored in a spot that makes sense to you.

When organizing your decorations remember to purge at the end of each holiday, group all like-items together, and label everything. Doing this will save you time, money, and frustration!

Overwhelmed? Get more info at www.cloudnineorganizing.com

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

for, you’ll be less likely to buy duplicates.

SHERIFF ’S aptain Edward Barrett is responsible for the management of the Criminal Investigations

Keep holiday decorations in a centralized location and not scattered throughout the house to help you find them.

unit is composed of one Captain, one

Scene/Forensics Unit collects all different types of evidence including photographic, video, tool marks, DNA, and fingerprint evidence. The Forensics unit also has the capability to develop latent fingerprint and palm prints and to make comparisons on the prints for identifications.

The Denton County Sheriff’s Office CID works in close cooperation with smaller law enforcement agencies located in

Lieutenant, two Sergeants, seven Criminal

Denton County that do not have a unit

II, one Forensic Technician I, one

County Sheriff’s Office also assists the

Offender Compliance Deputy and one

that require a large amount of time

Investigators, two Forensic Technician

able to process crime scenes. Denton

Property/Evidence investigator, one Sex

smaller agencies with investigations

Administrative Assistant.

The Criminal Investigation Division

daily task is composed of the follow-up

and personnel.

If you have any questions regarding the Denton County Sheriff’s Office Criminal

persons and growing.

investigation of crimes by interviewing

There are primarily two units within

criminal forensics, execution of search

Captain Barrett by E-mail:

appropriate. The Denton County Crime

phone 940.349.1673.

CID, Investigations and Crime Scene/ Forensics. The Criminal Investigation 10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

witnesses, interrogation of suspects, warrants, and making arrests when

Investigation Division please contact Eddie.Barrett@dentoncounty.com or

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

INSIDE COMMUNITY HOLIDAY STROLL & CHRISTMAS PARADE On Saturday December 1st, join Huffines Auto Dealership in Old Town Lewisville for the Lewisville Christmas Parade at noon. The parade will follow the Motorcycle Toy Run and Lewisville Morning Rotary Pancake Breakfast. After the parade there will be shopping, crafts, midway attractions, community dance groups, live music, and the Lewisville Lights tree lighting ceremony. Following the tree lighting, the event will conclude with a holiday movie under the stars.

MOTORCYCLE TOY RUN

The 20th Annual Lewisville Motorcycle Toy Run will be held on December 1st, from 8:00am-11:00am. A new, unwrapped toy with a minimum value of $10 should be brought by each rider, which will benefit children of Denton County during the holidays as all toys and monetary donations will go to local charities. Riders will gather in front of Lewisville City Hall and proceed on a procession throughout Lewisville, beginning in Old Town Lewisville and ending at Maverick Harley-Davidson in Carrollton. You must register on www.cityoflewisville.com.

HIGHLAND VILLAGE CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH

BLACKBOX SONGWRITER SERIES

On December 8th, join the town of Highland Village in

On Sunday November 18th at 6:30pm, join The City of

The Doubletree Ranch Park will be turned into a Christmas

kicking off their inaugural Christmas at the Ranch event!

Lewisville in welcoming singers and songwriters, Tom Faulkner

wonderland featuring lights, decorations, and carriage rides.

and Beth Wood. The two longtime friends will share the stage

There will also be Christmas carolers, a Santa’s workshop,

at MCL Grand Theater for an intimate Black Box Songwriter Series performance. Tickets are $15 and for more information you can visit www.mclgrand.com.

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

special visits from Santa and his reindeer plus much more.

The month-long event will kickoff on Saturday, the 8th, from 10:00am-1:00pm and will continue throughout the remainder of the month on Saturdays and Sundays from 5:00pm-8:00pm.

INSIDE EDUCATION LEF SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS

Lewisville Education Foundation scholarship applications are now open! All Lewisville ISD senior students are eligible to submit an application for consideration and application forms are to be

completed and submitted by the student. Application submission opened on November 5th and will close at 4:30pm on January 11, 2019. For any questions, email Sherah Robinson at robinsonsl@lisd.net or visit www.lisdef.com for more information.

THE COLONY

EVENTS The Colony High School Fundraiser Day Nov. 19th

RENAME THE CAREER CENTERS

LISD is seeking community input to rename one of its career

Thanksgiving Break Nov. 19th - Nov. 25th

centers where students from across LISD attend classes ranging from auto collision and video game design, to architecture and pharmacy tech. There are plans for the current Dale Jackson

Early Release Dec. 21st

Career Center to be replaced with a new career center in August

2020, which was approved by voters in May of 2017. The winning

Winter Break Dec. 22nd - Jan. 6th

name proposal will receive a $500 Nebraska Furniture Mart gift certificate. For the link to submit an entry visit www.lisd.net.

HEBRON

NEW THEATRE AT THE COLONY HS The Colony High School is excited to show

COFFEE WITH THE COUNSELOR

off their newly renovated auditorium, which

On December 7th parents of 5th grade

refreshed auditorium as they performed

of Castle Hills Elementary from 10:00am-

grand re-opening reception on Saturday,

is a time to discuss feelings, thoughts, and

audience lighting, carpet, curtains, paint,

your child’s school counselor so that both

Christmas came early for The Colony

transition to 6th grade. Please RSVP to

EVENTS Thanksgiving Break Nov. 19th - Nov. 25th

was recently completed. They broke in the

students are invited to join the counselor

“Mamma Mia!” on November 2nd and a

11:00am for “Let’s Talk Sixth Grade”. This

November 3rd. Upgrades include LED

feedback with fellow parents as well as

seating, stage flooring, and stage lighting.

you and your child can be prepared for the

Theatre students!

Mrs. Rains at rainsc@lisd.net.

Hebron HS Band Winter Concert Dec. 17th 7pm - 11pm Early Release Dec. 21st Winter Break Dec. 22nd - Jan. 6th

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Ask The Expert: Reading

BELOW IS A BREAKDOWN OF OUR NEW COURSE LINEUP:

MASTERING

CRITICAL

THINKING T

SKILLS

he Reading Ranch® Tutorial Center announced recently that we are expanding our literacy program to include fifth and sixth graders. We are excited to make this transition, as the new approach will allow us to work with these kiddos through the end of elementary school – instead of just up to fourth grade – so they are better prepared for the road ahead.

In that announcement, which included a breakdown of the various age-group classes and skills that will be covered, you may have noticed we are placing a ton of emphasis on critical thinking skills for the older children. Critical thinking goes beyond simply reading a book or being able to memorize or recall information and facts. It is a person’s ability to analyze, evaluate, and formulate their own opinion in ways that help them solve problems.

For school-aged children, it is imperative that these critical thinking skills be honed as early as possible. Why? For starters, we use critical thinking skills every day, and for children, having that skillset helps them make better decisions, solve problems, follow through on goals, and better understand the world around them.

At The Reading Ranch, our critical thinking courses focus on analysis and reasoning, direct and indirect questions, word study, connotations, thesis and arguments, and more.

14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

Here are 8 reasons why students need to master critical thinking skills:

1. They’ll have more control over their learning

2. It allows the student to become more independent and self-directed

3. They’ll have the courage to try new things

4. They can readily accept different

points of view and formulate their own opinions

5. Critical thinking skills translate into other areas of academics, creating balanced achievement

5TH-6TH GRADE • Analysis & Reasoning • Direct & Indirect Questions • Word Study • Connotations • Thesis & Arguments DESCRIPTION: This 50-minute class provides an in-depth approach to mastering comprehension, exploring analysis, reflection, argument, and reasoned decision making using a logicbased approach. Students will also be able to broaden vocabulary with word study, connotations, and analysis of topic sentences.

This is an excellent combination to package with our writing lab courses.

2ND-6TH GRADE • Writing Lab & Written Expression • Sentence Structure • Paragraphs • Essay Writing Vocabulary • Spelling & Grammar DESCRIPTION: This 50-minute course helps students explore a variety of writing topics through interactive writing (with a writing coach) while building paragraphs to emerging essays with enhanced vocabulary and descriptive details. Spelling rules, punctuation, grammar usage, and legibility is included in our writing program.

6. Allows a child to assess their strengths and weaknesses

7. Promotes better decision-making and spurs creativity

8. Enhances their ability to work with other people in a team setting

by Kim Southwell, Ph.D. Founder, Owner & Director Reading Ranch Tutorial Center www.readingranch.com

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

Envy The

OF TOWN F

by Steve Gamel

rom the first day Massage Envy opened a convenient location in Carrollton 12 years ago, it has been the go-to place for residents near and far who crave the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, get a relaxing massage from friendly professionals who know their craft, and leave feeling their absolute best.

But no matter how satisfied customers are – trust us when we say they are lining up to schedule their next appointment right now – it’s no secret their needs change over time, and owners must adapt to a new set of expectations. When Life in Castle Hills sat down with franchise owner, Prasad, Potluri, we learned he’s been welcoming feedback from loyal customers for years and is excited to announce a few changes that will make their experience the ENVY of town.

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

“Massage Envy is not just about

those services and their advanced skin

“Being a

resident of Castle Hills who also owns

very popular couples massage room.

here, I can

massages anymore,” said Prasad, a another Massage Envy location in

Firewheel. “Our customers want a place

where they can get total body care. We’re adding those services, and as we add more, people will really be excited.”

He added, “Customer service is big for

me. I want them to feel like this is the only place they want to be.”

So what exactly is changing, you ask?

Well, the biggest news is that the current

location, which has been there for the past 12 years, has moved directly across the street to a larger facility at 1012

care services. The facility will also have the The new services lineup includes facials

using medical-grade products Obagi and Jan Marini. Massage Envy has already

been offering facials as part of its services, but in the search for clear skin, many

potential customers will instead seek help

tell you that people

don’t know Massage Envy as a place to come and get great cosmetic-grade facials,”

Cassandra said. “But we

wanted to expand and bring

from their dermatologist for professional

that part in, and I know people

appearance of aging skin, sun damage,

Marini are well known in dermatologist

discoloration, etc. Now, these services can

They will make us an authority on

results. Their goal is to minimize the

will love it. Products like Obagi and Jan

acne, dryness, fine lines, wrinkles,

settings and create instant credibility.

be handled at Massage Envy.

facial services.”

“Our customers want more of

a spa feeling and a place

W Hebron Pkwy. The grand

member

where they can get total

opening ceremony was

Other amenities at the new facility include massage chairs in the employee break

room and lobby as well as a patio area

for customers who prefer to relax outside

scheduled for Nov.

body care such as

time this magazine

chemical peels,

their hair. The original facility won’t be

and other services,”

converting it into a F45 group fitness

waxing, stretching,

24, around the same

with the cool breeze running through

was scheduled

microdermabrasion,

going anywhere, either. Prasad said he’s

throughout Castle

Prasad said. “As we

facility that he will also run.

to hit mailboxes

move to the facial

Hills (talk about

side of the business,

perfect timing, right?!).

we want a more

The new space gives

upgraded look and feel,

Prasad and his staff of

which is why we are also moving

23 massage therapists and

“It all falls in line with the total body care,”

Prasad said. “Go to the workout and come in for a stretch or a massage.”

Bottom line: if you’ve been going to

estheticians 15 treatment rooms instead

to a better facility. We’ve had a good

Massage Envy and you can’t get enough

nearly double the previous facility.

of being stagnant. People have different

you’re going to love what’s coming down

level from coming here all these years, we

an appointment.

of 11 and 4,100 square feet to work with – photography by Kim Ortiz Photography

The new facility also paves the way for

a completely different experience and upgraded list of available services at

Massage Envy, which wants to capture that

thing going here, but you can run the risk

of its amazing people and quality service,

desires, and since they have a comfort

the line next. All that’s left to do is make

want to branch out more and offer them those services.”

“spa” atmosphere everyone craves. While

Manager Cassandra Nelson, a client who

they want to create a balance between

recently joined the team, agreed.

they will still focus on massage services,

loves Massage Envy so much that she

“I have been waiting for this move for the last two years, and now it’s finally time,”

Prasad said. “We hope they already have

a comfort level with us and want to branch out and do even more.”

| 972.939.6868 | www.massageenvy.com | 1012 W. Hebron Pkwy., #300 | Carrollton, TX 75010

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

Foodie Friday DFW: Prohibition Chicken

PROHIBITION

CHICKEN

I

love a restaurant that provides a full, fun, unique dining experience in addition to fantastic food. If you haven’t

experienced Prohibition Chicken in Old

Town Lewisville yet, you’ll be finding a way to get there as soon as possible by the

time you’re finished reading this article.

Prohibition Chicken was created by

four local guys (Chef Roger Kaplan, Ken

Johnsen, Josh Babb, and Sean Clavir) who

have a passion for two things: chicken and

whiskey. And Prohibition Chicken perfectly marries those two passions together.

Customers can enjoy traditional dining

and drinks in the main dining area. Or if

you really want to enjoy the full prohibition experience, head on back to their

speakeasy, the Volstead Room, through the telephone booth where you can

enjoy their full menu as well as some truly unique cocktails created by their Cocktail Enthusiast, Ryan.

When we first visited Prohibition

Chicken more than a year ago, their

menu was solely family-style. They’ve

since updated their menu so in addition to their “Sunday Picnic” offering of fried

Well, really... let’s be honest. You can’t

go wrong no matter your choice. With

their double-crusted recipe, each piece of chicken is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Exactly as fried chicken should be.

And while Prohibition Chicken may be

(obviously) most well-known for their fried chicken, you can’t leave without trying some of their Kobe-style Tri-Tip from

Beeman Ranch! It is melt-in-your-mouth delicious goodness.

But, of course, the full experience

comes when you enter the Volstead

Room through the phone booth where you can enjoy craft cocktails like their popular “I Do What I Want,” which is

Prohibition Chicken’s unique take on an Old Fashioned.

We love that this fun, unique take on fried chicken is right here in our backyard of

Lewisville. Soak in the charm of Old Town Lewisville and then head into Prohibition Chicken for a scrumptious meal and

fabulous drinks. You know what they say,

“Come for the poultry, stay for the party.”

214.222.3302 www.prohibitionchicken.com 201 W Church St., Lewisville, TX 75057

chicken and a side, they also now serve sandwiches like their Nashville Hot

Chicken Sandwich and entree salads like their Smoked Tri Tip Salad.

They have four chicken options you can

choose from. Our personal favorite is the

Pecan Smoked, but if you’re a fan of a little

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com

version of Nashville Hot Chicken.

1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

heat on your fried chicken, you’ll love their

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

jay@jaymarksrealestate.com

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

Style Article

FALL FASHION with

The Palm

TREE

Boutique

by Rebecca Grunewald

W

hatever festivity comes your way, from cocktail parties to school parties to family dinners and, of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations, The Palm Tree Boutique, which has locations on the Denton Square and in Grapevine, is sharing the latest trends to spice up your winter wardrobe for the holiday season.

HOLIDAY COCKTAIL PARTY: This emerald green stunner hits two of the season’s biggest trends -- velvet and jewel tones -- without sacrificing comfort for style. This easy to wear dress pairs perfectly with over the knee boots or a simple heel. Add a pair of colorful studs from Kendra Scott’s Winter Collection and you will have everyone green with envy.

20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

FAMILY DINNER: Keep your look simple and sweet with a fitted turtleneck, plaid skirt, tights and boots. Plaid is having a major moment again this year and we just love the festive color combo on this tie waist skirt. Accessorize your look with a pair of ruby red, faceted drop earrings which add just the right amount of sparkle.

photography by Amber Nasser | model: Chelsea Wood

GIFT EXCHANGE WITH FRIENDS: Stay comfy and cozy for a night in with friends by pairing a chunky knit cardigan and bamboo Piko top with your favorite pair of distressed denim. The pom-pom details (those are hearts!) make this sweater anything but ordinary and we love the double dose of fringe on this pair of jeans.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: The countdown is on...to find the perfect outfit to ring in the New Year! This sparkly, multicolor sequin tank paired with flowy, black trousers just screams FUN and will have you dancing the night away in comfort and style. Want something a little more subtle?

This top also comes in gold and the only accessory you need is a glass of champagne!

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

Business Spotlight

Wright The

CHOICE

T

by Steve Gamel

Wright Firm Is The Expert You Need In Family Law

here’s something to be said for

a law firm that can do it all. Whether

are Board Certified by the Texas Board

Denton Partner, Cynthia Palmer, previously

of Legal Specialization. They also have

worked for the Harris County Attorney’s

multiple associates to handle your case.

Patrick Wright is an accomplished board

you’re faced with a

certified family law attorney and started

as divorce and child

Paul. He is also listed in the Best Lawyers

Office in the Child Protective Division and at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office Family Justice Division. Cynthia is on the Denton County Child Protective

family law case such

the firm 15 years ago with his brother,

custody or you need

in America publication, has made the

Protective Services Cases.

guidance in starting

list of Texas Super Lawyer published by

“The work we do affects peoples’ lives:

planning, mediation, personal injury, and

Peer Review (Top) Rated by Martindale-

pictured above is Patrick Wright

a business, tax law, bankruptcy, estate

Thomson Reuters (2008-2018), and is AV

probate, clients of the Wright Law Firm

Hubbell. Patrick has an aggressive

know they have one team to turn to for all their legal needs.

approach to litigating complex child custody and property cases. Patrick has

Perhaps the one area that is most near and

24 years of family law experience to

The firm, which has four offices in Frisco,

of family law.

dear to their hearts, however, is family law.

Lewisville, Dallas, and now Denton, was recently voted Best Family Law Firm by Best of Denton County voters.

“It means a lot,” said managing partner Patrick Wright, who was named Best

Divorce Lawyer in 2017. “With family

law, you want the right team so that each and every one of our clients’ needs are

taken care of. We all specialize in a little something different when it comes to family law. Clients want that.”

The Wright Firm’s family law section is

composed of three attorneys, all of whom 22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

Services Ad Litem list to handle Child

and, not just on a short-term basis,” Patrick said. “Our work sets the tone for the next 15, 20, 30 years. We keep that in the forefront of our minds with each step our clients take with us.”

guide you through the complex maze Lewisville Partner, Brad Michelsen, is also board certified in Family Law. Brad Michelsen is a skilled litigation family law attorney, who has extensive experience handling custody and divorce suits, involving estates of all sizes. As a former college baseball and football player, Brad does not shy away from competition. In every case, Brad identifies the client’s

www.TheWrightLawyers.com 972.353.4600 1422 W. Main Street, Ste. 201 Lewisville, Texas 75067

goals and then works to develop the case to put the client in the best position to achieve those goals during settlement or at a trial.

972.353.4600 7000 Parkwood Blvd., Ste. E300 Frisco, TX 75034

GIVING Holidays BACK DURING THE

area and help raise awareness for how

many animals need help. The program also raises money for those animals in

need of medical care so that they have a better chance of survival and adoption.

They are always looking for volunteers to be a part of the foundation and to foster

animals. You can also donate to the cause, and learn more information at www.dentonasf.com.

by Lindsay Mears

D

uring the holiday season, we are reminded that it is not just about receiving presents on Christmas

Our Daily Bread

This is a soup kitchen that provides

meals and services to the hungry and

morning. There are so many families less

the homeless. They encourage people

fortunate than we are, and now is the

in Denton County to volunteer for food

perfect time to give back and serve in your

preparation and clean up, as well as

community. Here are a few places in the

help with fund raising and other office

area that make this possible.

duties. The charity not only offers food, Denton Community Food Center

Their mission is to provide food to all families in need. Their service area includes 21 cities, towns, and communities in 31 different zip codes across Denton County. Currently, they are accepting

but other services such as hygiene items, computer center use, and free passes for transportation. You can either volunteer

or donate to help them continue to help those in need. Learn more at

www.ourdailybreaddenton.org.

donations of non-perishables and always accept cash to be able to buy the things Sadie’s Sleigh In 2015 a young cancer survivor in

specifically needed. You can find out more at www.dentoncfc.org.

profit organization whose vision is to

Sleigh. She voiced her concern of Santa

make Lewisville the best place to live,

being able to visit the hospital, so she

work, and play. This is great to get

began her own toy drive that delivers

involved with, as you can either volunteer

toys to children being treated for cancer.

your time and help make the community

This ensures that the kids have a great Christmas. They are now accepting donations at www.sadiekellerfoundation.org.

Keep Lewisville Beautiful

Otherwise known as KLB, this is a non-

Lantana, Sadie Keller, started Sadie’s

Denton Animal Support Foundation DASF has one mission: to save more

animals. They couple with shelters in the

better in a variety of different ways, or you

can donate as much or as little as you can.

You can learn more at

www.keeplewisvillebeautiful.org.

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

Ask The Expert: Edit This

Help Your Business Stand Out:

SHARE YOUR STORY T

hese Ask the Expert columns are great. They give smallbusiness owners such as myself

an opportunity to have some fun and share knowledge about our craft and

how it relates to the reader. I don’t ever miss a chance to take part, and you shouldn’t either.

That’s the focus of my column this

week, guys and gals. I don’t have any

pearls of wisdom to share other than to

say if you’re a business owner who is not taking the time to share your story, your knowledge, what makes your company tick, and why you are different than

anyone else in your industry, you are

doing yourself a massive disservice in

the relationship-building department.

Building relationships with your clientele, new or existing, is the name of the game these days, right? And doing so with the

written word can be a powerful statement

if you do it right. Potential customers don’t want to read about your products and

they know you and can learn a thing or

two just by being around you or reading your stuff.

of the few family-owned and operated dealerships around in Bill Utter Ford.

stories of hundreds of small-business

to share “the why” behind The Reading

beyond, whether that be working with

whose owner and founder Kim Southwell

or writing about them in the pages of

her own early literacy issues. Today, she

each week to be able to tell the authentic

There was also the opportunity I had

owners throughout Denton County and

Ranch® Tutorial Center in Castle Hills,

them through my company, Edit This®,

grew up on a farm and battled through

this magazine.

ensures our children are reading well –

For example: I recently did a cover story

on Jim Bridges, a local State Farm agent

in the Lantana area. Everyone knows Jim is great at his job, but did you know he’s

named after his grandfather, who used to own a sporting goods store and is a big

reason Jim went into business for himself?

Did you also know Jim is big on

supporting his community and fellow man

and having fun, too.

Whether it’s sharing a simple story or teaching a few things you’ve learned throughout the years, more business owners should put themselves out there.

Thank you to those who already have – I can’t wait to read more as we inch closer to the end of 2018.

and once drove a truckload of supplies down to Houston to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey?

There are countless stories where that

meantime, people would rather feel like

of writing about the father-son combo

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

Orthodontics, and the history behind one

As a local writer and editor, I’m blessed

services – I mean, they do … but they can go to your website to find that out. In the

of Dr. James and David Dyer at Argyle

came from, like the time I had the pleasure

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 EditThisLLC.com

PET ADOPTION OF THE MONTH

Holiday WORSHIP SERVICES

Hi I’m Pretty Girl!

I am almost 2 1/2 years old and I have been at the shelter for 7 months. I am a very affectionate girl that loves belly rubs or to give you kisses. I am great with kids and love to play fetch or splash around in the water. I might need to be the only dog because I don’t like to share my toys. Pretty Girl tested positive for heartworm but has completed her treatment and will need to be retested in six months. All of our adoptable pets are sterilized, up-to-date on vaccinations, tested for heartworm or FeLV/FIV (if applicable) and microchipped.

Gene Carey Animal Shelter and Adoption Center 972.219.3478 995 E. Valley Ridge Lewisville, Texas 75057

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH THE COLONY Christmas Eve Family Service of Light with Communion Sercive December 24th: 5:00PM Candlelight & Communion Service December 24th: 7PM & 11PM www.fumctc.org 4901 Paige Rd. • The Colony, TX 75056

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH THE COLONY Candlelight Christmas Eve Service December 24th: 5:00PM www.fbcthecolony.org

4800 S Colony Blvd. • The Colony, TX 75056

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH LEWISVILLE Christmas Eve Candlelight Service December 24th: 9:30AM & 5PM www.fbclewisville.org

1251 Valley Ridge Blvd. • Lewisville, TX 75077

FIRST BAPTIST CARROLLTON Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Service December 24th: 5:00PM www.fbcc.org 2400 N Josey Ln. • Carrollton, TX 75006

info and photo courtesy of Lewisville Animal Services

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Business Spotlight

MORE THAN Just Veins...

by Steve Gamel

Call Now

972.410.5757 www.FlowerMoundVeins.com 26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

NOW OFFERING STATE OF THE ART Laser Hair Removal | Vaginal Rejuvenation | Skin Rejuvenation

W

hen a patient desperately craves relief from the pain and embarrassment of varicose veins or any vein disease, they’ve never had to look any further than Dr. Robert Handley and his team at Flower Mound Vein Center. Now, Dr. Handley and his team are pleased to announce the opening of The Skin Fix Med Spa.

For nearly seven years, the practice has

“We treat a lot of women here for varicose

unsightly varicose veins with a variety of

additional need that could be filled,” Dr.

prided itself on treating symptomatic and

veins and uterine fibroids, so we saw an

minimally invasive outpatient procedures

Handley said of his female rejuvenation

minimal downtime. Simply put, they are

members Molly Harris and Alexandra

team will offer more than just great

technology that many people don’t offer.”

that leave little to no scarring and require

service, which is performed by team

the best at what they do, and now the

Giraldo. “This is a relatively new piece of

vein care.

There are plenty of medical reasons for

The clinic, located across from Texas

vaginal rejuvenation. Difficult pregnancies

Prairie Road, has added aesthetics to

along with damage caused by bowel

advanced solutions for everything from

genetics. Rejuvenation is also great for

Health Presbyterian Hospital on Long

and labor are often at the top of that list

its growing list of services. This includes

issues, pelvic cancers or surgeries, and

unwanted hair and skin discoloration

to skin laxity, wrinkles, and more. At the

top of that list is a state-of-the-art vaginal

Treatment plans are tailored to each patient and could involve anywhere from two to three sessions.

“This service is for anyone,” Molly Harris said. “This is an active community; most of the women here workout and are really active but may have stress and incontinence due to children and so forth.

You don’t have to be 50 years old and menopausal to receive benefits from this.

It’s for any age and need.”

women who suffer from chronic dryness

and sensitivity, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.

rejuvenation procedure that’s safe, gentle,

While there are methods out there

felt and seen immediately.

tightening procedures or laser technology,

and provides lasting results that can be

Dr. Handley and his team use what they feel is a safer method with the Votiva with the FormaV handpiece. This technology relies on gentle and non-invasive thermal energy to remodel and tone the internal vaginal and external labial areas.

that use more invasive radio frequency

4921 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 110 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Pet Spotlight

MAKAI MAKANA Love Is All You Need

by Kim Ortiz

adopted from Kauai, Hawaii in July 2016.

Makai didn’t know that his life would be

When she saw Makai, he was so happy and excited. She knew he was the perfect

(Hawaiian for Ocean Gift) and called

dog to spend the day with on the island.

Alaska Airlines to get him a ticket. The next

They went to the beach, the local farmers

to the pet store and bought him a crate,

forever changed on that day in July as

market, ate shaved ice and Hawaiian pork

Humane Society.

so that visitors and locals could potentially

he was sitting in his crate at the Kauai

tacos. Makai wore an “Adopt Me” jacket

Castle Hills’s resident Kim Ortiz was on a

adopt him. After dropping Makai off at

decided to take a dog out on the island

decided they needed to take him back

11 day vacation in Kauai in July 2016 and

the shelter that afternoon, Kim and Mario

for the Shelter Dog Field Trip program.

to Dallas.

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

They decided to call him Makai Makana

day they went and adopted him, took him and a toy for the journey, to fly him first class home with them.

So there you go, next time you go on

vacation to Kauai, you too could make a difference to a dog’s life. For more

information visit http://kauaihumane.org/ volunteer/shelter-dogs-on-field-trips/

photography by Kim Ortiz Photography

M

akai is a very special dog. Not just because he was born with a deformed leg but he was

NOVEMBER 2018 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Castle Hills Resident

Pens Christmas photos courtesy of Rick Zuroweste

for Young Readers

Y

by Susan Neuhalfen

ou could say that Castle Hills resident Rick Zuroweste has trained for his new career his whole life. A former corporate marketing executive, Rick spent his professional career researching and promoting children’s products, from Nerf and Batman toys to juice boxes, chocolate milk (TruMoo), and and cereals.

Focusing on making kids happy is

mostly have to do with Christmas

was only fitting that his first fiction

develops a fascination with the holiday

what he has done his whole life, so it storybook be geared toward the audience he knows best.

“I used a lot of the tools I’ve learned over

the years for inspiration,” said Zuroweste,

now a marketing consultant. “This book is

much more than a story, it’s about real life problems and experiences that kids, and even adults, can relate to.”

Christmas Comes to Prairie Dog Village is a delightful chapter book written by Zuroweste and geared toward

young readers (ages 6-10) but perfect for

parents, grandparents

and teachers to read to children of all ages.

The book centers around the main character, Pip,

a timid prairie dog who is

scared to go “Up Top,” so he stays in

his tunnel, collecting various papers that

have blown in for his “library.” The papers 30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | NOVEMBER 2018

(such as Christmas cards), so Pip

but is too scared to investigate it further.

One night he hears a cry for help that he tries to ignore but finally he goes

“Up Top” where his adventure begins with a dachshund named Gretchen

and a reindeer named Thunderbolt.

So how do Christmas and prairie dogs go together?

“I was looking for an animal

that hasn’t been overdone in books,” explains

Zuroweste. “My wife

and I were vacationing and came across

Prairie Dog Town

inside Mackenzie Park

in Lubbock. They were

so funny with lots of

energy. It seemed like the

perfect character.”

leg, is unable to fly home. It is up to Pip and Gretchen to get Thunderbolt back

to the North Pole in time for Christmas.

Zuroweste said the character of Pip relates to a lot of people, even himself as a child.

“I remember when I was in first or second grade, I was a bit of a mama’s boy, afraid

to leave the house and go to school,” said

Zuroweste. “I was a little timid and shy, and that’s an issue I think a lot of people can relate to.”

The book teaches kids lots of life lessons including the value of teamwork, facing

fears (not just once but throughout life),

and that while home is a place of comfort

and joy, you have to go out into the world in order to grow.

“The book teaches us that every

opportunity is a way to learn and grow,” said Zuroweste. “No matter what age you are.”

In the book, Thunderbolt loses his way

Christmas Comes to Prairie Dog Village

those big wind turbines and, cutting his

now through mascotbooks.com.

in a sandstorm, crashing into one of

by Rick Zuroweste is available for pre-sale