Lake Cities Living Magazine April 2019

APRIL 19, 2019 - MAY 17, 2019 MOTHER’S DAY

Dining Ideas DIANE

Barton SUMMER CAMP

Activities

A

Lifetime OF SMILES

GUARANTEED

Corinth - Hickory Creek - Shady Shores - Lake Dallas

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

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LakeCitiesLiving.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Emily Mitchell

Writers & Editor

Steve Gamel Barbara-Scott Kolb

Advertising

Kelly Murray Kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469.583.2819 YourCandidMemories.com

Letters

Lake Cities Living 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 Lake Cities 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. Lake Cities Living 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. © 2019 Murray Media Group

Mother’s Day:

Oh The Memories!

N

ow that Mother’s Day is almost here, I am reminded of a funny joke I usually play on my kids. Each year, I pull out the box of old cards, poems, and artwork and, while sitting at breakfast, chime in with, “These are a reminder of all the nice stuff you used to say about mommy!”

Naturally, their eyes get all big and wide, and they immediately start saying stuff

like, “Oh, mom, stop!” and “You know we still love you.” But I keep on reading in a cute mommy voice …

Like the card that says, “My mommy is pretty because she has striped hair.”

Or, “My mommy is the best mommy there is, and that’s all I have to say about that!”

My kids are so much older now, so the

entire charade embarrasses them a little

bit. In their defense, everything I do is just for show. I am incredibly blessed to be a

mom and wife, and I really do get treated like a Queen on Mother’s Day.

Not sometimes, or most of the time – but all of the time.

My husband, Scott, always goes out of his way to make sure I have the best gifts and even brings me breakfast in bed from time to time. The kids, no matter how fast they are growing up, are quick to make me the homemade stuff I adore so much – the poems, trinkets, and cards.

I love those because it means they took the time to sit down, think about how much I mean to them, and create something from the heart.

I keep all of it. And yes, I still like to look back on them from time to time.

What are your favorite Mother’s Day memories? Reach out to us on social media and share photos or funny stories.

You never know, we may print some of them in the next issue.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

16

On the Cover: Dr. Harry Ashitey of Aesthetic Dentistry & Implant Center

FEATURED:

A Lifetime Of Smiles Guaranteed

ASK THE EXPERTS 26 Fitness with Jesse James Fit PHOTOS FROM LAKE CITIES

18 Spring Break Family Fun Photos ARTICLES 08 Mother’s Day Dining Ideas 10 Lesser Known Tips to Get Your House Ready 12 Inside Community 13 Inside Education

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

24 EDITORS PICK:

Diane Barton

14 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree 18 District 8-5A All-District Boys & Girls Basketball 2019 20 Summer Camp Activities 22 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate 28 It’s Hail Season Y’all 30 Wildcats Look to Rebound After Another Season Suddenly Halts

The Real Estate

ISSUE

Learn who your local real estate agents are and tips to help get your house sold. As well as moving tips and packing tricks.

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Mother’s DINING IDEAS

I

by Steve Gamel

f you’re looking for dining options for Mother’s Day, there are a variety of local favorites and hidden gems throughout Denton County. Below are just a few.

Genti’s Ristorante Italiano 940.497.5400 • 3700 FM 2181 Hickory Creek, TX 75065 For you Italian food lovers out there, Genti’s is a can’t miss. Located in the heart of Lake Cities, Genti’s offers everything from pizza and pasta to seafood and traditional Italian entrees. And let’s not forget desserts like cannolis, cheesecake and tiramisu.

PRIME FARM TO TABLE

Shoal Creek Tavern 972.317.2250 • 1701 Shoal Creek Dr. Highland Village, TX 75077 This is just an all-around great restaurant. It’s casual, it’s fun, and the food is fantastic. For those still sticking to their New Year’s resolution, Jesse James Fit has his own JJ mark on the menu with dishes that he recommends to stay on track. Start with the smoked Old Fashioned.

SHOAL CREEK TAVERN

Prime Farm to Table 972.539.1902 • 5810 Long Prairie Rd., #200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Tucked away in the plaza behind Compass Bank, this hidden gem has food that is not only upscale, but very unique. The menu is created daily depending on what is fresh from the local farmers, so your food choices are always different and fabulous.

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photos courtesy of each restaurants Facebook page

DAY

GENTI’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

Verf’s Grill and Tavern 972.317.3390 • 2221 Justin Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 The extensive menu at Verf’s carries everything from steak and seafood to pasta and enchiladas and all of it is scrumptious. They also carry a full bar and a long list of wines. It’s a meal you won’t soon forget!

VERF’S GRILL AND TAVERN

Bistecca Steakhouse 972.318.0515 • 2300 Highland Village Rd. Lewisville, TX 75077 This is the perfect place for a romantic dinner, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The food is delicious, serving everything from steaks to pasta, and the service is impeccable.

BISTECCA STEAKHOUSE www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

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Real Estate Article

Lesser Known Tips to Get Your

HOUSE

READY to Sell T

here’s so much that goes into selling your home. From finding the right realtor to deciding how much your house is worth, wading through purchase offers, setting up inspections, and getting items repaired or replaced, etc., all of it can feel like you are quickly being buried by one overwhelming task after the other.

It’s all going to work itself out – we promise. But don’t forget that perhaps THE most important task on that to-do list is getting your home ready for sale. You know, making sure everything looks its absolute best for the litany of home showings interested buyers will sign up for? If you’re using a lockbox, that means total strangers could be walking through every corner of your house at a moment’s notice – so it’s imperative that you create a warm, appealing atmosphere.

by Steve Gamel

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We scoured the Internet and found obvious tips to prepare your home for the market, including getting your carpets cleaned or replacing and repairing items that are broken, but here are some lesser-known strategies:

Declutter Your Entire Home OK, so this first one is obvious, too. But you’d be surprised how many people think picking everything up off the floor will do the trick. Decluttering means throwing away things you no longer use that may be taking up important “showing” space in a living area, closet, bedroom, or garage. Don’t get rid of everything, but the idea is that the less stuff there is to distract a potential buyer from falling in love with the house itself, the better.

Your home will look bigger and less busy as a result.

Give Your Pets a Vacation We all love our fur babies, but the shedding, the smells, the dog bowls, and even the cat yarn can make a home less than desirable in a hurry. Not to mention, keeping the home clean for multiple showings can be a chore if they are around. Consider boarding your pets or having them stay at a friend or relative’s house while your home is in showing mode.

Keep Up With The Laundry As we mentioned earlier in this article, you will likely have plenty of potential buyers in your home throughout the week, so it’s imperative to keep everything as tidy as possible during that time and beyond. That includes laundry, where a few full baskets or clothes still sitting inside the dryer can be an unpleasant site for some. A tip here is to fold and put items away each time you do a load of laundry, thus making the entire laundry experience less painful.

Tidy Up The Landscaping Everyone always focuses on the inside of their home, but curb appeal is just as important. Make sure your lawn, flower beds, and other landscaping is adequately maintained and eliminate any areas of overgrowth, broken branches, weeds, etc. If you have a gazebo or outside living area, make sure it is in peak condition for potential buyers to view.

Put White Towels in All The Bathrooms This goes along with the idea that your home and everything in it should be as neutral as possible (neutral paint, accent pieces, carpet and rugs, etc.). By staying neutral, you make everything easier to view, and nothing says clean and new like having white towels in all the bathrooms.

Consider Doing a Few Upgrades This is for those of you who may have lived in the same home for 20 or 30 years. Appliances can get outdated in a hurry, same with that shag carpet and older countertops that you never got around to changing out and can’t be prettied up anymore with a few spritzes of cleaning product. Buyers love to see upgrades wherever possible, especially with light fixtures, and it’s something your realtor will use as a selling point.

Keep All Your Lights on & Curtains Open Sure, your house will look like a fish bowl with everything on display but isn’t that the point when your house is on the market? Abundant light is not only inviting for guests, but it also gives the appearance that a space is bigger.

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Hire a Staging Company This is an excellent point since most homeowners quickly feel the tension and anxiety of getting their home prepped for the market. If you’ve done everything else and don’t know how else to improve the look and feel of your home, a local staging company can come in like a white knight and make some tweaks and adjustments – think new decor, new furniture, etc. – to make the entire home more buyer-friendly.

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INSIDE COMMUNITY MOTHER’S DAY CHARITY TEA Sat., May 11 | 12:30 - 3pm | Global Spheres Center 7801 I-35E South • Corinth, TX 76208

Come join the Oakmont Women’s Club at their Mother’s Day Charity Tea. The event will feature a three-course tea menu with three teas to enjoy and a hat contest which will award prizes for Most Elegant, Best Handmade and Most Outrageous hats.

Door prizes will be given and the Name-a-Rose raffle drawing also will be held. Tickets are $30 and will be available from March 12 through April 30. No tickets will be sold at the door.

Contact Connie Prendergast, 940.326.9461 or Sue Hague, 940.326.9417 for tickets. photo courtesy of the LD Police Department Facebook Page

LAKE DALLAS FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday from May 11 - Oct. 26 | 7am - 12pm At The Lake Dallas Public Library

302 S. Shady Shores Rd. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 Join us on Saturdays starting May 11 for the 2nd Annual Lake Dallas Farmers Market. The market will run every Saturday from May 11 through October 26. Be sure to get here early to get the pick of the crop. If you wish to be a vender download the vendor application off our website at www.lakedallas. com/456/Farmers-Market. Please return the payment and the application to your Lake Dallas Public Library.

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KIDS’N COPS COOK OUT Sat., Apr. 27 | 11am - 3pm | LD Police Department 212 Main St. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 It’s almost that time of year again! That’s right the annual Kids’N Cops Cook Out and Safety Fair is just around the corner. This year the Lake Dallas Police Department and Municipal Court will have FREE food, gifts, music, superheroes, a drug take back event and more.

Be sure to mark your calendar! For more information go to the Lake Dallas Police Department Facebook page.

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INSIDE EDUCATION BRING MOM TO SCHOOL DAY Apr. 26 | 7:15 - 8:15am | Shady Shores Elementary

We invite all moms to come to Shady Shores Elementary! Enjoy a muffin with your child(ren), join us for our morning assembly and visit your child’s classroom. Sponsored by our SSE PTA. For more information email ssepta300@yahoo.com

photo courtesy www.saysomething.net

LDISD INTRODUCES SAY SOMETHING APP Say Something – or Text Something. A new

LDISD EVENTS Spring Family Fun/ Fitness Night Apr 26 | 6 - 8pm At Lake Dallas Elementary Senior Class of 2019 Barbecue May 4 | 11am - 12pm Bentley Station in Lake Dallas

phone app is in the hands of students at Lake Dallas High and Lake Middle School. It lets them report any warning signs of violence that they see anonymously. The app is being provided free to the district by Sandy Hook Promise. The district has also posted a website of resources for parents and community members that are interested in learning more at www.ldisd.net/saysomething

GUYER HIGH SCHOOL

CRAFT SHOW May 4 | 9am - 5pm

7501 Teasley Ln. • Denton, TX 76210 Join our 3rd Annual Spring Craft Fair. This event is a great time for local businesses to showcase what they offer along with supporting the fine arts at Guyer High School. There will also be a silent auction. Help support small local businesses and our Guyer Band program.

For more info contact wendy@pape.us.com.

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GUYER

EVENTS

School Board Meeting Apr. 23 | 6pm Held in the board room at the Dennis Stephens Central Services Building

School Board Meeting May 14 | 6pm Held in the board room at the Dennis Stephens Central Services Building

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SHERIFF ’S

CORNER with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE MISSION

T

he mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most cost-effective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public at-large who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

The mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most cost-effective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public at-large who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

940.349.1600 127 N.WOODROW LANE SUITE 300 DENTON, TX 76205 DENTONCOUNTY.COM/ DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

ATTENTION THE DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS NOW HIRING DETENTION OFFICERS. Detention Officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a secured facility. This is a fast-paced work environment where you can make a difference. Detention Officer I position starts at $37,623 per year + benefits, with pay increases for prior experience and education.

Join our family and be a part of a great organization!

Apply online at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/dentoncounty or call 940.349.1550

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Lifetime OF SMILES

A

940.489.8181 • SmileInFocus.com 3500 Corinth Pkwy., Ste. 200 Corinth, TX 76208

GUARANTEED

by Steve Gamel

I

t was another busy afternoon, and Dr. Harry Ashitey was hard at work on an unexpected dental emergency.

His focus was 100 percent on taking care of that patient’s every need and restoring a perfect smile, but he also knew there was someone in the lobby who would end up waiting longer than usual for their appointment.

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Rather than ask one of his assistants to

apologize, Dr. Ashitey excused himself for a brief second and personally walked into the lobby to say he was sorry and explain the delay.

The person in the lobby was floored by

the gesture, as he’d never seen a dentist go out of his way to be so attentive.

In that instant, Dr. Ashitey had

someone who was willing to sing his Sponsored Content

praises for a lifetime.

“I want everyone who walks in to feel

the same way I’d want to be treated,” Dr. Ashitey said. “I want them to feel

photo on the left by Your Candid Memories (www.YourCandidMemories.com)

comfortable, attended to, and feel like

they are not just a number. Everyone gets that same treatment across the board.”

He added, “I want a simple life. All I want

to do is be a good dentist and take care of people. I am here for them.”

It’s no surprise residents of Lake Cities are going out of their way to visit Dr. Ashitey

and his amazing staff at Aesthetic Dentistry & Implant Center in Corinth. Customers as far away as Argyle– sometimes with their entire family – come to meet the dentist with that million dollar smile.

They all crave a dentist who cares just as much about connecting with his community as he does providing superior dental care.

photo on the right courtesy of Aesthetic Dentistry

“I feel very fortunate that my family and I were able to come from Ghana to the

USA,” Dr. Ashitey said. “I have received so much support already from the

community, and I’m here to tell you my

goal is to be a big part of this community.”

As we alluded to before, Dr. Ashitey is

originally from Ghana – though he jokes

that he came to Texas as fast as he could.

After obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in medical sciences and

a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree

from the University of Ghana, he earned

his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the New York University College of Dentistry. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

“I always thought about being a doctor of something … since I was six years old,” Dr. Ashitey said. “I always worked hard throughout my education, and I am glad to be practicing dentistry today.”

comprehensive support for patients

He is married to wife, Imelda, and they have three beautiful children. But each and every day, he is excited to go to work and see his extended family of dental patients.

bridge or the revolutionary All-on-4

Aesthetic Dentistry opened its Corinth office in December, but it is actually one of two family-owned offices in Denton County. Dr. Ashitey also oversees his original practice in Lewisville, which has been open since 2013 and offers an array of services for adults and pediatric patients.

who have teeth that cannot be restored

and are seeking guidance when it comes to dental implants. So if a single implant is all you need, or you need a dental

method that uses as few as four implants while making the best use of your

available jaw bone to provide a fully-

functional set of fixed teeth, Dr. Ashitey and his team of specialists can help.

“We have CT scans and a 3D machine that lets us know of any underlying

conditions that otherwise might be

missed,” Dr. Ashitey said. “We have a

machine where we can sit with a patient

and simulate tooth movement so they can see what their smile will ultimately look

Aesthetic Dentistry in Corinth specializes in cosmetic dentistry, which includes everything from minor tooth touch-ups to full-mouth reconstruction, porcelain veneers, and teeth whitening. Most people know these services as a smile makeover, a way to restore your teeth and mouth in a way that boosts your confidence as you show off your pearly whites.

like, and we can even do some fillings

But that’s not all. Dr. Ashitey’s practice is steeped in digital technology and the most up-to-date methods of care. That includes teaming with specialists to offer

patient base that we have, and for them

without having to give the patient a shot.

Having that kind of technology, patients are comfortable and don’t feel like the appointment is going to be painful.”

After meeting Dr. Ashitey, it’s hard to

imagine anyone wouldn’t immediately feel at ease.

“I am incredibly fortunate to have the to have welcomed me as they have,” he said. “I will always do my best to

provide exceptional care to my clients.”

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District 8-5A All-District BOYS & GIRLS BASKETBALL 2019

Newcomer of the Year:

Mackenzie Buss, Lake Dallas Coaching Staff of the Year: The Colony FIRST TEAM

Cierra Smith, Justin Northwest Kannessia Holbert, Ryan

BOYS BASKETBALL 2019 MVP: Avery Anderson, Justin Northwest Offensive MVP: RJ Hampton, Little Elm Defensive MVP:

Brandon Crossley, Little Elm Newcomer of the Year: Cam Smith, Braswell

MJ Leslie, Braswell Sammie Freeman, Northwest Julien Smith, Northwest SECOND TEAM

Josh King-Walker, Ryan

Yash Mattu, Lake Dallas Keith Miller, The Colony Mark Kunz, Braswell Lezeric Bailey, Braswell

Coach of the Year:

Travis Edwards, Northwest FIRST TEAM

Tashawn Banks, Ryan

Garren Davis, The Colony

Luis Rodriguez, The Colony Bryce Okpoh, The Colony

Jaylen Peterson, Northwest

GIRLS BASKETBALL 2019 MVP: Jewel Spear, The Colony Defensive MVP: Kamryn Gibson, Braswell Offensive MVP: Ky’lie Scott, Denton

Tamia Jones, The Colony Chloe Adame, The Colony Dorian Norris, Lake Dallas

Josephine Elliott, Lake Dallas Aminah Hall, Braswell

Taylor Howell, Denton SECOND TEAM

Tiarah Starks, Braswell Jorja Elliott, Lake Dallas

Courtnee Locke, Little Elm Larissa Moser, Ryan Sandrine Uwera, Justin Northwest Aariyah Cotto, The Colony Kennedy Ryan, The Colony Darielle Neal, Braswell Raegan Wright, Denton

SPRING

BREAK Family Fun Photos were submitted by area residents.

If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

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by Barbara-Scott Kolb

S

ummer is just around the corner! Are you looking for some fun camps that will keep your kids active —physically, mentally and spiritually?

Achievers Summer Camp The Achievers Gymnastic Center is offering an affordable and flexible program to keep kids entertained throughout the summer! Achievers provides a fun, interactive environment for kids to make friends, learn a new skill and keep active.

Kids will stay excited and engaged as each week at camp is themed differently. Visit achieversgymnastics. com to save a spot in one of the available camps or the entire 9 weeks of summertime fun.

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Point Guard College Point Guard College is a renowned training program for up and coming basketball players to improve their performance on the court. Kids from 7th through 11th grade will spend time in the classroom learning from acclaimed coaches, watching film, and practice sessions in the gym each morning, afternoon and evening. Texas Woman’s University will be hosting the 5-day, 4-night PGC camps throughout the summer — the first camp will commence June 25-29. Don’t miss an opportunity for your child to grow in their skills as a leader, student and athlete as they learn from a first-class coaching staff.

City of Corinth 2019 Summer Camp Looking for a fun summer program to keep your kids busy during the day and give you a little R&R? Kids ages 5 through 12 are invited to spend Monday-Friday at Shady Shores Elementary participating in a variety of activities. Campers will also go on weekly field trips to the Fort Worth Zoo, Ripley’s Believe it Or Not, Legoland, Water Works, and more! Spaces at camp are guaranteed to fill up quickly, so make sure and sign up soon at www.cityofcorinth.com/summercamp.

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Foodie Friday DFW: Seven Loaves Catering & Events

SEVEN LOAVES Catering & Events “It’s not a miracle, we just work really hard.”

T

hat’s the motto of local catering company, Seven Loaves Catering & Events, owned and operated

by Phillip and Leslie Smithwick and their family.

We’ve known the Smithwicks for years, and have even utilized their catering

services for some open house events

over the years in our real estate business.

They are one of the hardest-working,

kindest families in town. And in addition to their abundance of delicious food options for your events, that’s what makes them so successful.

and you can count on as many things

being made-from-scratch as possible.

So, Phillip and Leslie, will you adopt us?!

And as we mentioned before,

that’s why they are so successful

at what they do! The day we were there, we counted 35 catering orders on their

production wall - with events like breakfast for their corporate clients, weddings, parties, and more.

So, the question you may now be asking

is, what areas of DFW does Seven Loaves cater? And the answer is... pretty much anything. Especially now that so many

While we were in their kitchen,

wedding venues are popping up on the

make no less than six completely

you have a need, give them a call and

menu. Everything from stroganoff that

Moral of the story is, no matter what kind

we witnessed Phillip and his team

outskirts of the Metroplex, Phillip says if

different kinds of food from their catering

they’ll figure out if they can make it work!

will remind you of your grandmother’s

to brisket tacos to a stunning peach and chipotle glazed chicken.

of event you have going on, and no matter what kind of food you want to serve, give Seven Loaves Catering & Events a call

And just about everything Seven Loaves

to help you out. You will absolutely love

kitchen. Down to the tortilla and potato

your guests will swoon over the food!

caters is made from-scratch in their

working with the Smithwick family and

972.293.5111 SevenLoavesCatering.com 1305 S. Highway 121, Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067

chips they serve on the side. (Heck, even

the seasoning that goes on the tortilla and potato chips is made-from-scratch!)

Phillip told us he wants their catering

clients to feel like they’re getting a little taste of what it’s like in the Smithwick

home. You’ll never eat the same thing over and over again, you’ll never leave hungry,

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

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APRIL 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23

photos courtesy of Diane Barton

Diane BARTON RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

eve Gamel

by St

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R

emember the first time you went to a business networking event? You were so nervous that you started sweating … in the dead of winter. You didn’t know anyone, you were still trying to figure out what possessed you to show up, and you purposely snuck in so quietly that you barely got noticed by anyone.

Well, except for that one lady.

Diane Barton was her name, and she had a smile that could make anyone relax.

She shared what she did for a living, but

you couldn’t remember since she quickly

shifted gears and began asking you more

personal questions than you’ve ever been asked in a span of 30 seconds. It was the most welcomed you’d ever felt, and she

reassured you that you were now part of a tight-knit community. Suddenly, you

realized, “Hey, I could grow to like this

networking thing.” And you did. As for

Diane, she quickly became one of your closest friends.

There are no limits to Diane’s acts of

volunteerism and selfless generosity.

That story sounds far-fetched,

but there are very few people in the

Lake Cities business community who

don’t know Diane Barton. The 59-year-old

native of New Milford, Connecticut moved to Hickory Creek in 1989 and, despite living in the shadows for more than

25 years, has made up for lost time by

It’s gotten to the point now where she is continuously one-upping herself every

day by carving out time that most people might think doesn’t exist in a regular

workday. She is on the board of directors

for the Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce and is one of the founding leaders of

immersing herself in a community that is

the wildly-popular Lake Cities Coffee &

it. And she considers it her duty to ensure

first person to reach out to a newcomer,

now just as much a part of her as she is of

Connections networking group. She’s the

everyone she meets has the

and somehow, she makes time to be at

every charity event, mixer, ribbon

same experience.

“When I started going to things like the

Chamber, I didn’t know a soul. I just figured,

‘I’ll keep showing up,

and surely people are

going to remember my name eventually,’”

Diane said with a laugh.

cutting, and luncheon.

“I always get something back, whether it’s business, a new friendship, or just someone to do something with.”

“I never went into it with the mindset of getting

In between all that, she’s running a

successful business as a representative for

Stream, which provides

life-essential services

such as electricity and

cell phones. Somehow,

she still manages to meet

with local business owners for

business from people. I wanted to make

1-on-1s and post heartwarming stories,

connections. My purpose in life was to ask,

videos, and pictures of their accolades on

‘What can I do to help you?’”

social media.

She added, “I always get something back,

“I have sort of become known as

just someone to do something with.”

No one really asked me to take numerous

whether it’s business, a new friendship, or

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the roving photographer at events.

amounts of photos – I just do it,” Diane said. “I see life in pictures ... people laughing, hugging, and engaging.

It’s important to me that those moments are captured for and shared with the community for everyone to remember.”

Surprising as it may be hard to hear, Diane wasn’t always involved in her community as she and then-husband Mike did their socializing with friends outside of the immediate community. That all changed in 2009 after Mike’s sudden passing.

“I was by myself,” Diane said. “I could have either sat in the house and wasted away, which probably would have been fine by me at the time, or I could get out and meet people, make new friends, and build a community around me. I started with the Chamber and was eventually invited to a networking group. I just kept showing up and continued to support others in the community.”

She hasn’t stopped trying new things, and now she has that community of friends she’s always wanted.

“It’s the sort of thing that doesn’t happen overnight, and to this day it amazes me when someone calls me by name. I try to be a true friend to everyone.

After all, what do you have if you don’t have family and friends?”

APRIL 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 25

Ask The Expert: Fitness

The Best Gift for Any Mom:

A HEALTHY

FAMILY

W

One of the best ways to teach children a fit and healthy lifestyle is to do it together.

Get everyone on board and center the new life changes around an event. With Mother’s Day around the corner, ask for the best gift of all – a healthy family.

Children naturally look to parents as mentors and role models. That influence helps mold them into who they will be as adults and is a key factor in how they make decisions about life and about fitness.

So make fitness a family affair.

Get Fit Together. Whether you walk together, bike together, or even dance together, the important fact is that 1) you live an active lifestyle and 2) you’re doing it together. In the gym, exercise together and encourage one another to go the extra step and not to give up. Remember you, as a parent, are modeling a fit and healthy lifestyle.

Also consider a fitness trainer who can

Actual Clients

26 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| APRIL 2019

Eat Healthy Together. That large order of french fries may taste delicious, but is it really the healthy lifestyle you want for your child? One in five school-aged children is obese according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Make a healthy diet part of your everyday life. Cut out the chips and sodas, and stock the fridge and pantry with healthy snacks like fruit, cheese, nuts or yogurt.

Make going out to eat a special event and try to prepare more meals at home as a family. Not only do you have more control over the ingredients and quality of your food, but meal preparation becomes a family activity.

Take Care of Yourself. As a mother, consider how important your health is to your family. Fitness, specifically weight training, can help protect your bones and prevent osteoporosis-related injuries.

With strength training, you’ll gain improved balance and coordination, which helps you keep a steady step and not fall. It is also beneficial in preventing bone loss and building new bone. In fact, a recent study involving postmenopausal women found that a year of strength training resulted in significant increases in bone density in the spine and hips.

Health and fitness can be extremely successful when you do it together as a family. At Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp, we encourage families to get fit together. We work with clients of all ages and fitness levels to help them reach their personal fitness goals. Visit us at jessejamesfit.com to learn how we can be a positive influence on you and your family as you transform your life and begin working.

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

photo courtesy of Jesse James Fit

e learn by example, and the same holds true for fitness. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that more than 80 percent of adults fail to meet guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

At the same time, 80 percent of adolescents do not get enough aerobic physical activity to meet the guidelines for youth. Isn’t it time that we set the example and teach our children about health and fitness by leading the way?

tailor a mother/child program specifically to meet each of your personal goals, whether that’s cardio, toning, strength building, or weight loss.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 27

Real Estate Article

It’s HAIL SEASON Here’s a Layman’s Guide To Roof Hail Damage

by Steve Gamel

W

Y’all

hen you live in North Texas, it’s easy to grow accustomed to unpredictable weather. One day it could be sunny and 75 degrees, and the next day, the wind chill makes it feel like 18 degrees with a chance of scattered thunderstorms.

It can be aggravating, but for the most part, everyone goes with the flow. Well, unless there’s hail – anything but hail!

According to the National Storm Damage Center, hail, which can be as small as a pea to as large as softballs, causes about $1 billion in damages in the United States each year to vehicles, houses, outside furniture, and anything else it feels like pelting in the middle of the night. We all know a comprehensive assessment of the damage to your home – especially if it involves climbing up on your roof – needs to performed by a licensed, neighborhood roofing expert, but there are a few things homeowners can safely look for from the ground to get an idea of whether or not they may have a damaged roof:

Dented or Loose Gutters and Downspouts Your gutters are often a perfect indicator that there’s a bigger problem on the roof.

Even if they aren’t loose and haven’t fallen off your house, your gutters may have dents and dings in the metal from the hail repeatedly pounding on them.

Missing Shingles Chips or Cracks in Windows and Siding The hail may not have been big enough or lasted long enough to break a window, but pay close attention to the caulking around your windows – are there chips, tears, or cracks? If you have window screens, are they bent or missing? How about the siding on your house? Are there punctures of any kind?

Write all this stuff down to point out to your roofer.

28 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| APRIL 2019

Leaks Inside The House Homeowners spend so much time leaping outside to spot potential damage that they ignore telltale signs inside the home. These can include leaks in the ceiling, attic, or excess water pooling on the inside of your fireplace. Bottom line, if there are any leaks whatsoever, you need to call a roofing professional immediately.

Again, leave climbing on the roof to a professional.

But sometimes all it takes to spot signs of a potentially bigger problem is by walking around the perimeter of your property with a pair of binoculars to see if there are any missing shingles.

Also check the grass, swimming pool, and nearby landscaping for debris such as roofing nails, shingles that may have blown off, large tree limbs, or granules that have collected near downspouts. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Chimney Damage Chimney damage can sometimes be very easy to spot if you notice holes in the siding. Another telltale sign of hidden damage is a water leak anywhere in the vicinity of where the chimney is.

Hail Splatter Marks, Scrapes on Fences, Decks, and Wood Surfaces Depending on the color of your fence or deck, hail marks can look like someone splattered them with white paint. Look for

holes, cracks, chips, splits, or general unsightly marks or indentations.

Hail damage on your vehicles If the hail storm was significant enough to damage your vehicle, then the same thing likely happened to your roof. Have it looked at by a roofing pro immediately.

There are a million other items on your property, including your mailbox, playsets, and outdoor lighting that will help you determine if your roof was likely damaged in a hail storm.

If you believe you may have hail damage, there are reputable roofing companies all over Denton County that will gladly provide a free and detailed inspection and give you tips on what to do next if there is enough damage to file a claim.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

APRIL 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 29

WILDCATS Look To

REBOUND AFTER ANOTHER SEASON

SUDDENLY HALTS

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer boys basketball coach Grant Long tried his best to maintain composure as he exited the

locker room last month at Wilkerson-

Greines Activity Center in Fort Worth.

On the one hand, he was incredibly

proud of his players – but he was also consumed with sadness.

For the second year in a row,

the Wildcats did all they could to make

it to the pinnacle of high school basketball – the UIL state tournament in San Antonio – only to fall short by one game.

The game lived up to the hype as both juggernauts traded blows for four-plus quarters. Guyer led for most of the game but never could build more than an eightpoint lead in the first half. The Panthers cobbled together a late surge to take a four-point lead into the fourth quarter.

By that point, it was clear the game was far from over. Guyer rallied to force overtime and nearly pushed double overtime before missing two free throws in the final 2.9 seconds of overtime.

“ THE BALL JUST DIDN’T BOUNCE OUR WAY...”

Another magical

season cut short.

“I’m super proud of the guys, but

also heartbroken

It was Duncanville’s second win over Guyer this year, though clearly by the slimmest of margins.

over the result,”

Long said after their

66-62 overtime loss to Duncanville

in the Class 6A

Region I final on March 2.

The marquee matchup was billed as 30 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

a showdown of epic proportions between the top two teams in the state. “They fought so hard. I’m very proud.”

| APRIL 2019

“The ball just didn’t bounce our way,” Long said.

While the sadness over the rough end to

this season will linger for a while, Long has worked hard over the years to make sure his program bounces back every year.

Including this year, the Wildcats are an eye-popping 125-16 since 2016.

One of the biggest reasons for that

success has been a healthy combination of Division I level talent and plenty of

depth behind them. But that will all be

challenged this offseason as Long tries to

replace arguably the strongest senior class in school history. Both De’Vion Harmon

(Oklahoma) and Jalen Wilson (Michigan) will graduate, leaving guys like big man

JaKobe Coles and all-around knockdown

shooter Tyler McGhie to shoulder the load.

Long didn’t seem concerned by the upcoming changing of the guard.

“I’m proud of our program, the culture, and the family atmosphere we have

built,” Long said. “I hate that we weren’t able to take the next step that we’ve

been talking about. We’re just going to continue to work to try and do everything we can [next year].”

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com