Flower Mound Town Life Magazine January 2022

JANUARY 2022

JAY MARKS REAL ESTATE

BECAUSE YOU MATTER

things

ARTICLES 08

contents

Because you Matter

14

18

28

10 HOT VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS

STALKER PREVENTION MONTH

LOCAL FINDS

GIVING BACK THROUGH ART

13

16

5 THINGS TO TRY

31

DENTISTRY WITH COUNTRY LAKES FAMILY DENTAL

TA B L E O F

10

JAY MARKS REAL ESTATE

FOODIE FRIDAY DFW: ALMA MEXICANA RESTAURANTE

22 25

BOUGEE ON A BUDGET

27

THE BIG GAME

FITNESS WITH OUTLAW FITCAMP

34 2021 OUTSTANDING CITIZENSHIP AWARD

37

SHERIFF’S CORNER WITH SHERIFF TRACY MURPHREE

39

2022: A YEAR FOR SETTING GOALS

53

BROWN SUGAR VANILLA SCRUB- DIY

54

BALANCING YOUR LIFE AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

40 INSIDE COMMUNITY AND EDUCATION

FEATURED

32

ISAAC SMITH FOR CONGRESS - POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT

43

DENTON COUNTY YOUNG REPUBLICANS NETWORKING TOGETHER www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

44

56

LEGACY OF GIVING

THE DRIVE FOR GOOD

50

58

THE LOVE OF THE GAME

NEW TOWN MANAGERJAMES CHILDERS

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Publisher of Murray Media Group, kelly@murray-media.com Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Optimism

2022 W IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS IN

ell, the holiday season is officially behind us, and 2022 is already here. Can you believe it? Where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday

that we were sending the kiddos back to school in triple-

digit temperatures, and I can remember getting ready for Thanksgiving and the rest of the holiday season as if it were yesterday.

But here we are, almost to February. Wow! They say time flies when you’re having fun and, while I definitely had a lot of fun this year, I have even more optimism as I look forward to another new year.

As we start to ponder how we’re going to make 2022 better than last year — personally, professionally, spiritually, etc. — I urge you all to reflect on 2021. Regardless of whether or not you nailed this past year, I’d be willing to bet that you still learned and grew in ways that you never expected this year.

I know I did. And I’m sure we will take all of those lessons and put them to good use this year.

That’s what I love about life – you never know what the next day (or, in this case, the next year) is going to bring. It’s the unexpected challenges that help us grow the most. We sure are happy to share our lives with each and every one of you. Enjoy your family, cherish your friends, always be kind, laugh often, and find unique and inspiring ways to make the best of even the bad days.

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Writers

Caylie Howard, Steve Gamel, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Mark Miller

Advertising Inquiries

sales@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Mish Cunningham-Scott Cayla Thompson Arynn Tomson Hallie Preece

Photography

Miranda Longoria Photography Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Photography by Guy T Live Beautifully Photography

Letters

Flower Mound Town Life invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial Inquiries Call Caylie Howard at 972.899.3637 or email editor@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Flower Mound Town Life 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. Flower Mound Town Life 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. © 2022 Murray Media Group

Cheers to 2022!

Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | JANUARY 2022

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BECAUSE you matter

by Steve Gamel | Photography by Your Candid Memories Photography

I

t was a typical weekday afternoon, and Jay Marks had just sold a $3.2 million horse farm in Argyle in a matter of a few days. Granted, other realtors have accomplished similar feats, but this transaction was different. The property was on the market with another agent for a year, and the

owner was at a tough crossroads.

Jay could have approached this from a purely

referral on a well inspector,” Jay said. “People

business mindset — complete with green,

know we are a resource for anything, whether

cartoon-size dollar signs in his eyes. But he was

it’s real estate, taking care of their house, or

called in to rescue this deal for way more than

personal stuff.”

his real estate skills.

“Jay showed up as an incredible human being in this emotional, high-stakes, high-dollar family transaction,” an out-of-state realtor said in a Facebook post after referring his client to Jay. “At one point, my friend the seller said to me, ‘You know what Jay said to me today at the end of our phone call? He said, “Wait, one more thing, Katie — you matter to me.”’ Then she hugged me with tears in her eyes and thanked me for bringing Jay into her life.”

Anyone who knows Jay Marks agrees his greatness lies in his humanity — his willingness to be real, vulnerable, loving, and ensure every client knows they matter. It’s the reason why he and his team at Jay Marks Real Estate in Flower Mound sell over 100 homes a year and earn a living off of repeat business and referrals. And it’s why people turn to him regularly for his honest advice, down-to-earth personality, and uncanny ability to connect with people.

For all of those reasons, Jay Marks is more than top of mind. He’s top of heart.

He added, “We want to be the ultimate resource for our customers and friends.”

So, where did Jay learn to be such an amazing human? It all comes down to a humble, bluecollar upbringing.

His late mother, Margaret, was one of the top Tupperware salespeople in America — all before computers, cellphones, and emails.

More importantly, she was a great mother and community supporter. Before she died in 1976, Margaret was a singer, actress, piano player, and den mother. She also volunteered at church, Jay’s school, and other community events. His late father, Julius, worked hard to build relationships in every part of town and every profession. He had friends who were garbage men and others who were bank presidents, and he wanted Jay to utilize those same principles in life while also being happy and successful.

Along with both of his parents, there were Jay’s grandmothers. He built a genuinely close relationship with both of them after his mother

“Recently, I got two calls from people looking

died, and they taught him how to sacrifice,

for a plumber and one who needed an air

put others first, and the importance of a good

conditioning person. I had a realtor call for a

name. He enlisted in the Army and was a

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“Wait, one more thing, Katie — you matter to me.” Then she hugged me with tears in her eyes and thanked me for bringing Jay into her life.”

paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. He became an award-winning soldier and instructor at every command he belonged to — he also sold real estate part-time during the last two years of service — until he left the military in 1995.

“What does this all mean to Flower Mound? I’ve faced fear, learned how to jump out of planes in the middle of the night, trained recruits and leaders, and been exposed to some of the bravest, smartest military people,” Jay said. “I’ve also been exposed to the greatness of my grandmothers, both of whom taught me to make a difference in my community. I’ve used all of that to put others first in life, and I’ve done the same thing here in Flower Mound [as a realtor]. I have three new

agents that I’ve trained to become smart, capable agents, and people trust us because they like how we make them feel.”

Jay and his team believe in connecting with people at the highest level, providing the best service possible, and building relationships that stand the test of time. Beyond real estate, residents have spent time with Jay at local charity events, enjoyed reading his Foodie Friday articles that hype various local restaurants, and partnered with him and his team on business deals.

When looking for a real estate agent and a friend for life, what more could you want?

“Buying a home can be a lot of fun. Selling a property to move to something different can be an adventure. But moving is awful,” Jay said. “We take a different approach. We always have. We want to make sure people know they matter.”

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com

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For your FREE Digital Magazine!

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18th annual

STALKER prevention month

by Caylie Howard

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S

talking is a very serious issue that

commonly used tactic when it comes to

that you can find online to help you with this

happens more often than you would

responding to their perpetrators is to confront

process. Make sure to include any police

think. Each victim’s experience is different

or threaten their stalker or even attempt to fight

reports that are filed in your records.

but the problem is still the same. Some cases

back against them, which can end

are more dangerous than others, with the

very dangerously.

situation leading to attacks, sexual assault, or

4. It’s important to save all evidence of stalking when you can. A common form of

Denton County’s Friends of the Family is a

contact with stalkers is by using technology.

great source for assistance as well as a place

If you remember to save all of the emails, text

Unfortunately, there isn’t one single

to offer helpful tips and resources to victims.

messages, photos, and social media postings

psychological or behavioral profile that could

Below is a list of 5 great tips for victims who are

as evidence of your stalker’s behavior, it will

point out to us an individual that carries those

experiencing this harmful situation.

benefit you in the long run tremendously. You

even killing the victim.

dangerous and unsettling stalker tendencies.

There’s also no definitive way to predict what a certain stalker will or won’t do to their victims.

A stalker’s behavior can escalate from less lifethreatening interactions such as phone calls or text messages to more physical contact such as delivering gifts or showing up to places that their victims are.

When it comes to victims of stalking, there is a very real struggle with how to respond to their stalkers. There are a few more common ways that victims seem to choose to handle the situation. Some victims attempt to reason with their stalkers to calm them in hopes that being kind to their attackers will encourage them to stop. There are many victims of this crime that tend to play down their frightening experiences by trying to convince themselves that their situation isn’t as bad as it truly is. Another

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1. A great tip to remember when you find yourself in a stalker situation is to trust your instincts. Many victims of stalking situations often are encouraged by their friends or their

may also look into ways to use your technology devices in a more protected way. A great source for this is the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net Project’s Tech Safety Site.

family to downplay the behavior of their stalker

5. Contacting a local victim service provider,

or the situation as a whole. However, your safety

such as Denton County’s Friends of the Family,

needs to be the number one priority. If you feel

is a vital part of safely escaping a stalker

any sort of real threat or harm, trust

situation. These local helpful sources can

your intuition.

aid you in exploring your options as well as

2. If you feel that you are in immediate danger, the first thing that you should do is call the

discussing a plan of safety for you and everyone involved.

police. They are going to be your number one

It’s important to note that as a victim of stalking,

source of protection in these horrid situations.

you can’t control your stalker’s behavior.

Take the time to explain the stalker’s actions

However, you should also feel empowered and

and why they are causing you distress or fear.

encouraged to take the necessary steps to keep

3. Keeping a record of each interaction of any

yourself and your loved ones safe from harm.

kind is a great tool to use when dealing with a stalker. There are examples and templates

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Giving Back Through Art

by Mark Miller | photos courtesy of Ryan Sanford and Tavia Whitlowe

W

At first, the long-time Legacy Lace Wigs owner

another whether it’s in church or in life,” said the

painted pieces for her home. Then husband

mother of six. Her own children have donated

Ryan suggested she start selling them. Not

hair for other kids.

ith her primary business closed for five months at the start of the pandemic, Ty Sanford

All of her art proceeds and 10 percent of every

needed something to address being trapped in her Flower Mound home.

wig sold at Legacy go directly to Tresses. That

So she turned to art.

also helped her create a room to display her

knowing how to do that, one of Ryan’s coworkers told them about Etsy online stores which she opened in October 2020. Since then, she has sold 144 paintings globally.

“I didn’t even realize I made that many paintings,” she said. “I had it to where it would take two weeks to get it but sold them so fast I had to shut off my shop for a while because I had to catch up.

“I had no idea anyone would buy them. I knew I had the talent – I had a scholarship for art in college – but never thought I could make a business out of it.”

That business has helped her fund the Tresses of Care non-profit organization she started in 2018 after learning of children with

work in the building she and Ryan own adjacent to Alforno’s Italian Kitchen on Morriss Road.

After starting college at Texas Women’s University, she transferred to the University of North Texas where she earned a bachelor’s, executive master’s, and Ph.D. in psychology. She employs a homeopathic way of helping clients deal with hair loss through wigs.

“A lot of people come to me and say, thank you for not making this awkward,” she said. “How can anyone not make this fun. I mean we’re playing dressup here.”

Sanford started her business out of

medical hair loss issues.

“My mother always told me you have to give back one way or

FLOWER MOUND RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

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972.330.3338 | tressesofcare.org | info@tressesofcare.org

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How can anyone not make this fun.

I mean we’re playing dressup here.”

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JANUARY 2022 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 29

her home in 2010 before opening a shop on Sagebrush Drive in 2013. That had to close in February when the pipes burst during the snow and cold storm.

“It was like it rained inside the shop,” she said. “I lost everything.”

She engaged her overseas connections to restock her inventory and moved to her current location in June.

“It’s exciting. It’s a new place with new space and new energy and motivation,” she said.

While Sanford has an online site for clients to browse her wigs, she prefers serving them in-person by appointment only to maintain privacy.

Sanford is planning two promotional events in 2022 – one called Giving of Yourself – where stylists give free haircuts used to create wigs. The other is Mocktails on the Mound where people will create their own artsy version of cocktails.

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POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT

by Caylie Howard | photos courtesy of isaacsmithforcongress.com

“T

o whom much is given, much is required.” This is what Isaac Smith has based his life on and what has started his journey of running for Congress. Isaac has been married to his wife, Tabitha, a nurse at Denton Presbyterian Hospital, for 14 years. Together, Isaac and

Tabitha have 2 beautiful adopted children. pandemic, Isaac’s business exploded and

dual citizenship until he was 17. “My parents

saw great success. “It was a great year for us

were missionaries in Mexico and I couldn’t wait

financially and when we asked God what we

to move to America to pursue the American

should do with our funds, we felt he told us to

Dream,” Isaac said. In 2011, a few years after his

pay off our home, so that’s what we did,” Isaac

move to the United States, Isaac made his way

said. “I love doing inspections; however, I’ve

to Texas and he’s called both Flower Mound

put my business to bed in order to follow God’s

and Highland Village his home ever since.

command to run for office.”

Isaac has a very faith-based background and

Isaac stands by his conservative and Christ-

lives his life accordingly. So, upon making

based values. “A lot of people don’t know that

Flower Mound their home, Isaac and Tabitha

they’re conservative but my wife and I know it.

quickly sought out the perfect church to call

And not only do we know it, but we also live it,”

home. After many different church visits, they

Isaac said.

Creek Church. “We knew that was where we were supposed to be and we’ve been there ever since,” Isaac said.

Isaac’s conservative beliefs are strongly represented in his stance on political issues. Some of his policy beliefs regard the freedom of choice when it comes to COVID

In 2013, Isaac started a small business

vaccines, election integrity, solutions to illegal

inspecting homes. Last year, during the

immigration, political term limits, support of

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life and making adoption a more accessible option, having a flat rate tax plan, and the support of the use and discovery of fossil fuels.

Isaac was born in Mexico and lived there with

finally found the perfect church family at Valley

the second and first amendments, being pro-

For the past 15 years, Isaac has paid great attention to politics and has always had strong opinions on what’s happening in our country.

However, that being said, running for office was never something that Isaac believed he would do. “I was never one to have the desire to run for political office. However, I felt that this is what God has laid out for me to do,” Isaac said.

“The position of a person in Congress is to represent the people and is held in high regard and should not be taken lightly,” Isaac said. With Isaac’s passion for his faith, his family, and his Christ-like values, he believes that he will have the character & strength to return integrity to the office and hopes to be able to humbly represent the people of our great state in his run for Congress.

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I’ve put my business to bed in order to follow God’s command to run for office.

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2021

Outstanding Citizenship

T

AWARD

by Caylie Howard | photos courtesy of Anna Thorsen

he town of Flower Mound holds the Outstanding Citizenship Award which is designed

The winner of the group category was The

to recognize those who demonstrate exemplary service to the community. Each of the

Followers of Jesus Christ. “The group’s number

recipients will have their names added to the town’s perpetual wall plaque displayed at the

Flower Mound Town Hall. The recipients will also receive an engraved brick at the Flower Mound Public Library, a community spotlight on Flower Mound’s website, as well as a small, engraved trophy that they can take home.

one priority is to serve the Flower Mound community with whatever they may need,” Anna said. The group assists Keep Flower Mound Beautiful on a regular basis with all of their clean-up efforts. They also volunteer at the local

In addition to all of these items received, the

spent several hours a day collecting trash in

recipient of the individual category always

a three-square-mile area along the shores of

receives a membership for one year to the Community Activity Center, a VIP pass to Independent Fest, as well as personal invitations to attend various Town events. The winners of the group and youth categories also get a day pass to the Community

Lake Grapevine,” The town’s Communications Specialist, Anna Thorsen, said. During Jared’s endeavors to recycle and keep the community of Flower Mound clean, he’s always been the perfect example of a great neighbor. Jared has gone above and beyond for his fellow Flower

Activity Center.

Mound residents. He has helped by moving

The Town of Flower Mound announced their

and even securing packages for residents

2021 Outstanding Citizenship Award recipients during their Town Council meeting on December 6th. Mayor Derek France along with the Council recognized all of the recipients of Flower Mound’s 2021 Outstanding Citizenship Award. There were three individuals and one local group that received the prestigious honor.

The individual category winner was Jared Bennos. “For the past ten years, Jared has 34 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | JANUARY 2022

furniture, cleaning pools, bringing in trash cans, who went out of town.

The winner of the youth category was Mia Camm. At just five years old, Mia started her Brighter Lemonade stand. “Instead of keeping her proceeds, Mia donated them to the nonprofit Journey to Dream, which helps house and care for teenagers experiencing homelessness.

Christian Community Action donation center as well as provide and teach “find a better job” classes, which are where the group offers lessons on building a resume, networking, and interviewing.

Lastly, the lifetime category winner was Carol Kohankie. “Carol has been a Flower Mound resident since 1981. Her history of service in the community spans 40 years,” Anna said.

Her acts of service for the community include assisting the Town of Flower Mound in getting a post office in 1987 as well as serving in multiple town commissions. She also worked with the Friends of Flower Mound Library as a board member.

The town of Flower Mound would like to thank each recipient for all they have done for

Five years later, Mia has raised more than

the community. Their services are noticed and

$10,000,” Anna said.

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Legacy of

M

by Leena Duwadi | photos courtesy of Michelle Cree

ichelle and Brian Cree's commitment to the Denton County community has gotten bigger and stronger over the years. The power couple from Highland Village was recently recognized by the 2021 Dr. Bettye Myers Humanitarian Award for their philanthropy in numerous ways. The

award was presented at United Way of Denton County's tenth annual UNITED Tribute gala celebration.

"We are very much honored by this award; we'll continue giving back to the community and people with all our hearts," they said.

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Named after a famous icon who left an indelible

and Denton County students scholarships. "It's

impact on people's hearts, the Dr. Bettye Myers

very rewarding to see kids going to college

Humanitarian Award was established in 2014

and building a career," Brian mentioned.

to recognize and appreciate the community

Providing The Salvation Army in Lewisville with

leaders with an extraordinary contribution.

a community industrial kitchen in 2013 was the

Most recently, the couple played a significant role in building a landmark partnership between United Way of Denton County

first big project the Crees carried out. They both are incredibly proud of the long-lasting impact created by the programs they're involved in.

and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. The

Brian, CEO of SWX Global Design & Production,

collaboration has expanded the way United

inherited benevolence from his parents and

Way of Denton functions in several Denton

grandparents. He grew up being fascinated by

cities. "Brian and Michelle's leadership

stories of his grandfather taking his mom door

in uniting all of Denton County proved

to door in her childhood for charity works. Mary

advantageous," said Gary Henderson,

Anne Cree was also a renowned philanthropist

President, and CEO of United Way of Denton

and civic leader. United Way of Metropolitan

County. "The partnership has positioned us

Dallas headquarters is named in her honor.

to work county-wide with government and nonprofits to respond to the unprecedented impact of the pandemic."

With more than eight decades of family philanthropy, Brian adheres to a motto of his life, "work hard and give back." "My family is

Born and raised in Amarillo, Michelle, in her

Michelle and Brian's social works focus on the

extremely fortunate and blessed for the things

school days, realized that she's a people

areas of mental health, homelessness, and

we're able to do," he shared. Brian thoroughly

person. After graduating from Southwest Texas

scholarships. They've helped students through

enjoys working behind the scenes in

State University (now Texas State University)

programs like the Jack Canon music scholarship

business and humanitarianism.

with a degree in Social Work, she joined Dallas

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County MHMR to work with adults with

both are incredibly humble and

intellectual disabilities in community-

grounded, as they believe that's how

based settings. Those 13 years prepared her for work in the nonprofit field, where she has held various roles.

She has also earned the PTA Lifetime Achievement Award for her active roles in PTA with LISD elementary, middle & high school while her boys were in school.

Michelle's ten years of involvement in LEF (Lewisville Education Foundation) have been crucial to her, along with her involvement in United Way Denton County, Salvation Army of North Texas, Metrocrest Community Services, and 100 Women Who Care. "I truly feel blessed to have been a part of so many organizations that have so positively impacted others,” she said.

The success Brian and Michelle have

they cherish their accomplishments.

Plus, one of the keys to their successful careers is "respect and dignity" toward each other. "My wife has always been very supportive, and I couldn't be more grateful for her," Brian expressed. "I am proud of what Brian has achieved as a social leader," Michelle shared with pride. "We never thought for this prestigious Bettye Myers Humanitarian Award; when you're in social works, you just keep doing that without any expectation," she added.

To continue with the family's legacy of philanthropy, the couple's sons have participated in several projects with their parents. As the Crees continue serving the needs of Denton County,

achieved individually and collectively

we wish more power to their time,

over the years is praiseworthy. They

talents, and treasure.

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FREE CONSULTATION • (972) 435-0341

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THE

LOVE of the

GAME O

by Caylie Howard | photos courtesy of Gabby Sinmaz

ver the past two years, our country has lost many of our beloved friends, family, and neighbors. We’ve seen heartbreak and tragedy that will live with us for years to come. For the Flower Mound High School Girl’s

Lacrosse program, the heartache of losing a loved one is no stranger to them. The loss of Craig Belmont was felt throughout the team, as well as the entire community.

Program Director and Varsity Head Coach of Flower Mound Girls Lacrosse, Gabby Sinmaz, met Craig in 2014. “I’ll never forget the moment I met Craig,” Gabby recalled. Craig was one of the first lacrosse parents that she had the privilege of meeting. “I was recruiting youth players at a tournament and was learning about different town programs, as I was new to the area and Texas lacrosse,” said Gabby.

“As I was jotting down notes from the sideline, Craig approached me and made a joke to ‘watch out for #0, she’s a beast’ which was in reference to his daughter, Brynn,” she said.

From that moment, Craig and Gabby became quick friends. “It was apparent he was so invested in the players and the program, that he could give me the most detailed player/team breakdown that I could have ever asked for. He then introduced me to

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all of the Flower Mound parents including his wife Beth and expressed that if I needed anything to reach out,” Gabby recalled. A characteristic that she notes he was known for within the North Texas girl’s lacrosse community. Gabby learned the impact and influence he had as a volunteer youth girls coach as she witnessed the players’ success over the years as they grew in the game.

It’s clear to the team and the entire district, that Craig was Flower Mound Girls Lacrosse’s biggest cheerleader. Craig was always first in line to volunteer his time to the players and program. “There are no words to describe this loss.

His presence in the stands will be greatly missed and he will forever be in our hearts,” Gabby said. “So much of his legacy will be carried out through his daughter Brynn. As a senior and team Captain this season, and soon to be a collegiate Division I lacrosse player, we are confident she will bring his spirit and passion to the field.”

It’s plain to see that Craig Belmont made a lasting impact on the players and this program. “His electric personality made you feel like you’ve known him your entire life,” Gabby said. “He was a one in a million human.”

The team plans to hold a memorial game in their upcoming 2022 season honoring Craig. If you’re looking for ways to support the Belmont family, you can visit Craig’s GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/f/in-the-lovingmemory-of-craig-belmont. The team will be posting updates on any community events to celebrate Craig on their Instagram page @flowermoundgirlslacrosse.

“IT WAS APPARENT HE WAS SO INVESTED IN THE PLAYERS AND THE PROGRAM.”

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JANUARY 2022 | FLOWER MOUND TOWN LIFE | 55

DRIVE for

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by Caylie Howard

The

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T

he holidays can be a difficult time for many people

and the struggles have only increased since the pandemic began. People lost their jobs and their homes. People were left trying to figure out how to put food on the table to feed their families. Aj Robbins, the owner of Robbins Dry Cleaners and Apollo Homes DFW, came to our local community’s aid for yet another holiday season. And this year, his efforts grew to places that were completely unexpected but greatly appreciated.

During the holiday season of 2020, Aj saw a

Aj said. “I can only

need with our local residents. People were

do so much.”

struggling and they were having a hard time reaching out for help. Aj himself was no stranger to the struggles of the pandemic, however, his heart for others led him to the desire to help those in desperate need. Aj began a food drive that he hosted in Robbins Dry Cleaners and saw great success and appreciation with his efforts.

This past holiday season, Aj decided to host the food drive again, however, this year, he wanted to be able to help in an even bigger way. “I have a large network and I reached out to those people and businesses to get them involved,” www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

With the help of Aj’s extended efforts, the drive took off. “It kind of blew up,” Aj said. People donated gift cards, food, clothing, and more to those that weren’t able to provide those things for themselves.

“We were doing more than just food and gift cards. We were paying tickets, helping with bills. If you had a financial strain, we would go out and pay it,” Aj said.

At the end of the holiday season, Aj and his network of partners were able to help around 120 families. Aj hopes to make this an annual event that will begin in the middle of November and go through December. With the success of the past year’s donations, Aj has found that the event has outgrown his own store. “Our goal next year is to be able to open up a storefront space to host the drive,” Aj said. It is because of his generosity and his true servant’s heart that so many local residents were able to have a truly magical Christmas season. It’s safe to say that without Aj’s devotion to our town and its people, the holidays would have looked a lot less merry and bright.

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new town manager

JAMES CHILDERS

by Caylie Howard | Photo courtesy of Melissa Demmit

A

s of January 3, 2022, the Town of

manager. Since 2018, James has been an active

Flower Mound has a new town

assistant city manager for the City of Irving.

manager, James Childers. The vote

to appoint him was voted unanimously by the Flower Mound Town Council.

James began his local government career in

The Town of Flower Mound had 48 applicants for this honorary position, and it was clear to see that James Childers was the best choice. “He is a proven leader, and we

2002 right here in Denton County. He worked

were impressed by his breadth of knowledge

as an administrative intern in the City Manager’s

and extensive background in a variety of

Office for the City of Denton. He then went on

municipal government fields, from public

to work in his next internship in our very own

works to planning and zoning to quality-of-life

Town of Flower Mound where he was later

services. He’s an excellent communicator and a

hired as a human resources generalist. He

true professional who I feel confident will lead

worked with the Town of Flower Mound for

our Town in the right direction,” Mayor Derek

three years before moving on to the City of

France said.

Dallas, where he stayed for seven years holding various titles, including working as a manager in the Office of Strategic Customer Services and as assistant director of the Code of Compliance Department. After his time in Dallas, James went on to work for the City of Abilene for more than five years, acting first as the director of community services and then as an assistant city

James is thrilled to be returning to the Town of Flower Mound and is ready to hit the ground running. “One reason I was attracted to the position is the excellent staff, many of whom I have the pleasure of already knowing. I’m a big believer in respecting and leveraging the internal human capital of an organization – and of the diversity of the community at

large,” James said. “I look forward to meeting the residents of Flower Mound and working together to continue ensuring Flower Mound is one of the best places to live in the region, in the state, and in the country.”

I look forward to meeting the residents of Flower Mound and working together to continue ensuring Flower Mound is one of the best places to live in the region, in the state, and in the country.

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