Lake Cities Living Magazine June 2019

JUNE 21, 2019 - JULY 19, 2019

BACK 2 SCHOOL

FAIR

IT JUST TAKES

20 MINUTES SOON-TO-BE

SENIORS

A Little Piece

COUNTRY

of HEAVEN

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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JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 3

LakeCitiesLiving.com

IT’S

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

SUMMER

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

TIME...

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

David Erdek Photography 404.664.5388 www.DavidErdek.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

S o M a k e I t O n e To R e m e m b e r

S

ummer is finally here, and I’ve got to tell ya, it’s about time! Not only am I looking forward to things slowing down just a little bit so Scott and I can hang out with the kids more, but I am eagerly awaiting more consistent weather patterns.

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

Good … so let’s make the most of it.

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

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

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

•

•

4 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

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

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

Master a new skill or talent – This can be for you or the kids because kids never want to stop trying new things

and adults need to remember they can still learn new tricks at any age.

A friend of mine said he’s going to teach his littlest son how to ride a bike this summer, and another said she will train for a half marathon.

The possibilities are endless.

•

Check in on your 2019 goals – June is the midway point of the year, and if you set goals for yourself back in January, it’s time to see where you are at and if you need to play any catchup.

What ideas do you have for this summer?

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

16

On the Cover is: Lucas Brawley, son of Bob and Dana Brawley owners of Brawley Farms

EDITORS PICK: The

FEATURED:

A Little Piece Of Country Heaven ASK THE EXPERTS 07 Real Estate with Beth Caudill

11 Inside Education 12 Hiking Trails Near You

30 Fitness with Jesse James Fit

18 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

22 Soon-To-Be Seniors

ARTICLES 06 Pet Adoption of the Month

24 What Are Your Sleeping Mistakes?

26 20 Questions with Tina Henderson

08 It Just Takes 20 Minutes

28 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

09 Back 2 School Fair

29 Independence Day Celebrations

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Library2Go Bookmobile Program

10 Inside Community

25 School Days with Valorie McGilvra

14 City of Corinth: New Vision for Corinth

20

The Fitness

ISSUE Featuring profiles on local fitness and health professionals.

Learn the latest trends in getting in shape.

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 5

Pet Adoption

OF THE

MONTH

Hi my name is Garland!

I’m a 1-2yr old pit mix and Lake Dallas Animal Shelter’s longest resident. I’m a very sweet and very loving girl who loves being with people. I’d prefer to be the only pet in the house as I can be picky of my dog friends. And no cats!

Please stop by the shelter and get to know me. I’ll be waiting!

LAKE DALLAS ANIMAL SHELTER 687 N Lakeview Dr. Lake Dallas, TX 940.497.7090 Tue-Thurs 12 - 4pm Fri-Sat 11am - 4pm

6 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Real Estate :Ask The Expert

REAL ESTATE TIPS

AS WE REACH THE

MIDWAY POINT OF 2019

W

hen you’ve been in the real estate business for as long as I have, you learn quickly that a realtor’s job is to be aware of everything – from the more talked about stuff that most clients at least know a little bit about to tips and tricks that are hot off the presses.

To me, there’s no better feeling then

We’re not seeing as many multiple offers

what they wanted and needed and that

but homes under $250,000 are being

knowing both the buyer and seller got they came out on the other side with

a little more knowledge than they had walking in.

on homes as we did this time last year,

scooped up a lot faster, and for homes under $200,000, many are getting

multiple offers. There’s plenty of buzz in the housing market right now, and

So with that in mind, I want to

that’s huge when your biggest

make sure everyone knows a couple of things as we’ve

reached the midway point of 2019.

For starters, if you are

considering purchasing a new home in the Lake

Cities area or surrounding

communities, doing so before

There’s plenty of buzz in the housing market right now, and that’s huge when your biggest goal is to find your next dream home.

the end of 2019 is a smart move.

Interest rates are down below 5%.

goal is to find your next dream home.

Don’t worry, sellers.

I haven’t forgotten about

you. The biggest tip I can

provide right now is to

make sure your house is

staged and being presented

properly to ensure it always

looks better than anyone else’s.

That’s super cheap when you consider

Staging is the big catch phrase right now.

higher – and most people use those

to envision what a living space could

rates on most credit cards are 12% or every single day.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Most potential homebuyers struggle be when it’s empty or untidy. This is

where you need to think in terms of cozy furniture, color-coordinated accessories, making every room look larger, and eliminating clutter as much as possible.

Also, make sure you are working with an experienced realty team (like mine … shameless plug) that isn’t afraid to roll up its sleeves and make sure your home is as eye-catching as possible.

This includes detailed photographs of your home – inside and out. Too many times, I see pictures of homes that are taken from too far away or with a cellphone and don’t capture the beauty you are trying to display. A good realtor will go above and beyond to make your home stand out.

If you have any questions when it comes to real estate, or if you are in the market for a new realtor, give me or my team at eXp Realty a call. We will have your back at all times.

by Beth Caudill Make the Move Team 940.320.2777 www.MakeTheMoveTeam.com

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 7

Fitness Article

IT JUST TAKES

20 MINUTES Y

by Audrey Christie, MSN, RN, Holistic Wellness Practitioner Essential Healing Lake Dallas

ep, that’s all it takes to make a difference in your health and wellness.

So often I hear from people that they just don’t have time to exercise, they don’t have the money for a gym membership, or maybe going to the gym just seems overwhelming.

I get it. I have been there.

But I have some news for you - don’t let that get in the way of moving your body.

You see what you need to overcome isn’t your schedule, your budget,

8 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

What if you thought about it as movement rather than exercise?

| JUNE 2019

or even your confidence about hitting the gym.

You simply need to overcome or reframe the way you view exercise.

What if you thought about it as movement rather than exercise?

You don’t need a gym membership, or a lot of extra time, or the perfect outfit to move your body, right? And moving your body for about 20 minutes every day is really all you need to make a difference for your wellness (unless you are training for a specific event or goal).

These 20 minutes don’t even have to be in a row! You can squeeze in 5 minutes here or there. You can go for an afterdinner stroll with your family, take Fido for an extra lap in the morning, or do a few sun-salutations/mini-yoga practice.

That’s all it takes.

So unless you are training for a 5K or Warrior Dash, or working for an Ironman

competition, consider setting the goal to just move your body everyday in some way. Making these small shifts create sustainable patterns that lead to long-term wellness.

This is a much more statistically successful choice than the looming excuses or fits and starts of a massive fitness undertaking.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Back 2

O

n Thursday, August 8th, There Has To Be More Ministries will

WANT TO #HELPUSHELPTHEM

with an emphasis on increased

You can drop supplies in the Back 2 School box at Lake Dallas City Hall or Lake Dallas Public Library.

event that is open to everyone

be hosting their annual Back 2

awareness of educational

School Fair at the Lake Dallas

Middle School from 5pm to 9pm.

The Backpack and Health Fair

provides LDISD families, who have found themselves with economic

challenges, the chance to start the school year off right.

The fair is a fun and FREE family

opportunities, jobs, and social services. While at the fair, our families have the chance to

spend time getting to know local businesses, churches, and even

community leaders, in a one-onone setting.

24 Ct Crayola Crayons

•

Small Plastic School

•

12 Ct Crayola Colored

•

Plastic Pocket Dividers

•

10 Ct Black Pens

•

Dividers 5-Tab Poly with

•

10 Ct Blue Pens

•

12X18 Manila Paper

Supply Box Pencils

(Package Of 6)

Single Pocket

(50 Sheets)

•

Single Red Pens

•

12X18 Colored (50 Sheets)

•

10 Ct Red Pens

•

3 X 5 Ruled Index Cards

•

(100 Count)

Yellow Highlighters

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Spiral Notebooks 5

•

24 Ct #2 Ticonderoga

Glue Sticks-Large

•

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket Set of 8 (2 Green, 2 Blue, 2 Red, 2 Yellow)

or Purple)

•

Blunt Tip Friskar Scissors

•

Pencil Sharpener with Lid

•

•

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket

Plastic Folder (3 Prongs with 2 Pockets)

•

Paper (150 Sheets)

•

Large Pink Erasers

Pointed Tip Friskar Scissors (7”)

Chisel Tip Dry Erase

•

Folders 3-Prong

•

Paper Folder (3 Prong with 2 Pockets)

•

12” Wooden Ruler

•

3 Ring Binder (1 Inch)

•

Canvas Pencil Bag

Set Of 4 (Red, Green,

•

Earbud Headphones

Blue, Yellow)

•

24 Ct Crayola Crayons

•

White Elmer’s Glue

•

Small Plastic School Supply Box

•

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket

•

5 X 7 Ruled Index Cards

•

Expo Chisel Tip Dry Erase

Construction Paper

•

•

Highlighters

•

12 Ct #2 Ticonderoga

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket Set of 7 (2 Green, 2 Blue, 2 Red, 1 Yellow)

•

•

•

•

3 X 3 Post-It Notes

•

(90 Sheets)

(4-Pk Assorted Colors)

•

(100 Count)

Markers (4-Pk Assorted) Wide-Ruled, Notebook

Markers, Black (4-Pk)

Yellow Pencils

Subject - College or Wide Yellow Pencils

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket

(Red, Green, Blue, Yellow,

Set of 2 (Red and Green)

with 2 Pocket Set of 3

(Red, Green and Blue)

Wide-Ruled, Spiral

Notebook (70 Sheets)

•

25 Ct Pencil Top Erasers

8 Ct Crayola Wide-Tip

•

Folders 3-Prong 2 Pocket

Classic Color Washable Markers

•

You can also donate financially online towards supplies as well.

Glue Sticks-Small

•

•

Cross Timbers in Corinth, or Ciera Bank

•

HERE IS A LIST OF SUPPLIES •

We will also have drop boxes at the following locations starting Saturday: Point Bank Corinth, Chick-fil-A in Corinth,

Wide-Ruled, Spiral

Notebook (100 Sheets)

•

10 T Crayola Markers

•

Wide-Ruled, Composition Notebooks (100 Sheets)

(4 Oz.)

Set of 4 (Green, Blue, Red and Purple)

For more information visit: www.ThereHasToBeMore.org/ Back-2-School-Fair JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY

DENTON BEER WALK Wed., Jul. 17 | 6-9:30pm | Denton Square 111 W Hickory St. • Denton, TX 76201 For those who love craft beer, don’t miss out on a new summer tradition taking place on the Denton Square! Upon arrival, you will receive a beer guide, a glass, and a beer “passport” to keep track of all your stops as you enjoy samples from 15 locations. Check-in time begins at 5:15 pm! Pre-purchase on Facebook at Denton Beer Walk for $10 plus tax, or at the Square for $15.

GNOME CONES

NOW OPEN! 205 Elm St. • Denton, TX 76201

Gnome Cones is now open for business at their new location in Denton! Feeling as if you just stepped into a fantasy world, you will not forget your experience at Gnomes! This summer come enjoy a one of a kind cone. Check out the fun new items on the menu on their Gnome Cones Facebook page. photo courtesy of Gnome Cones Facebook page 10 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

CHRISTMAS IN JULY! Fri., Jul. 12 | 5pm-2am | BackYard on Bell 410 N Bell Ave. • Denton, TX 76209

Ho ho ho! Do you remember where you stored your Santa hat? Because it’s time for Christmas in July! Come down to BackYard on Bell July 12th for a fun holiday event with live music, vendors, food trucks, and great drinks. They will also be running a Toys for Tots drive. Find more information on the BackYard on Bell Facebook page.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

INSIDE EDUCATION NEW DENTON HIGH LOCATION SECURED Following meetings and deliberation, Denton ISD has finalized on the land intended to serve as the new Denton High School campus.

Construction will begin during this month of June. The North Star Builders Group project a 2022 Fall grand opening for the new campus.

FIND IT Police Car with Lights On Man Wearing a Hat Swing Set Train

Logo courtesy of www.ldisd.net

LAKE DALLAS ISD ACHIEVES “BEST HIGH SCHOOL” STATUS After analyzing more than 17,000 schools on student performance, the U.S. News and World Report just declared Lake Dallas ISD on the list of one of the “Best High Schools” of 2019. Lake Dallas is now ranked in the top 40% of public high schools in America.

Green Roof Picnic Table Detour Sign Person Singing in Car Baseball Field Bird on a Wire Water Tower Ambulance Ladder

photo courtesy of Denton ISD Facebook Page

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DR. DANIEL LOPEZ Well reputable throughout Denton ISD academia, Dr. Daniel Lopez is now serving as the Denton ISD Executive Director of Human Resources. Responsible for much of the work designing and organizing the new Denton High Schools campus, Lopez is determined to further impact the educators and students of Denton.

Mailbox Rusty Pickup Truck Yellow Sports Car Person Taking a Selfie Bridge Over Water Port-A-Potty Old Tire on Side of Road Swimming Pool

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 11

Fitness Article

HIKING TRAILS Ne ar You H

iking is one of the best ways to get exercise and spend good quality time with family and friends. Neighborhood walking is great but it’s nice to get off the sidewalk from time to time for something a little more off road. There are a tone of hiking trails around your area but here are just a few to try out if you haven’ t already.

1

NORTH SHORE TRAIL | 18 Miles

3501 Pavilion Pl. • Grapevine, TX 76051

4

This trail traverses the North Shore of Grapevine

This trail isn’t off road hiking but it is great for runners,

including: Rockledge Park, Murrell Park, MADD

strollers and wheelchairs since it is paved and partly a city

Shelter, and Twin Coves Park. This is an old

walk. There are numerous street crossings so look before

motocross trail that is used for hiking and mountain

crossing. This trail is also dog friendly as long as they are

biking. We suggest if you are hiking to go in the

on a leash.

opposite direction of the suggested trail, so that you can see oncoming bikers.

Running | Biking | Family Friendly

Dog Friendly | Kid Friendly | Mountain Biking

Stroller/Wheelchair Friendly | Walking | Dog Friendly

Hiking | Trail Running

SHORELINE TRAIL LOOP | 2.6 Miles

4500 Sarasota Dr. • The Colony, TX 75056

5

and horses. This trail also connects to Knob Hill Trail.

It offers scenic views and dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Hiking | Trail Running

LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL

LEARNING AREA | 9 trails | About 13 Miles In Total 201 E. Jones St. • Lewisville, TX 75057 (Visitor Center Address)

Within this park are multiple trails for all levels. This is a great place to come and spend the day with family

12434-12498 Dunham Rd. • Roanoke, TX 76262

moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips

trafficked loop trail is great for the whole family.

Dog Friendly | Kid Friendly | Mountain Biking

CROSS TIMBERS EQUESTRIAN TRAIL | 6.5 Miles

A lightly trafficked trail that features a lake and is rated as

Connected to Stoneridge Drive Trailhead this lightly

3

304 Swisher Rd. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 This trail is moderately trafficked and is rated as moderate.

Lake. There are several trailheads for this route,

2

DENTON KATY RAIL TRAIL | 8.4 Miles

Horse Friendly | Hiking

6

KNOB HILL TRAIL | 10.6 Miles Off of US-377 • Roanoke, TX 76262 Knob Hill Trail is a moderately trafficked loop trail and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. This trail connects to Cross Timbers Equestrian Trail.

and friends to hike and enjoy nature.

Dog Friendly | Kid Friendly | Mountain Biking | Hiking

Kid Friendly | Hiking | Canoeing

All information sourced from AllTrails.com

12 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

77

288

380

DENTON

380

380

288 35W 377

35E

4

ARGYLE

LAKE DALLAS

35W

LANTANA

377

6

2

35E

3

5

114

CASTLE HILLS

121

1 35E

121

State Highway

Roads

U.S. Highway

Water

Interstate

Vegetation/Park

Business Spotlight

NEW VISION

Corinth

for

C

by Steve Gamel

all him old fashioned, but Bob Hart has always had an appreciation for even the smallest of details.

For example, when he was appointed

Corinth’s new City Manager in January 2017, he admits one of the first things

that caught his eye was the Corinthianstyle architecture throughout City Hall – especially the intricate design on its facade and rooftop.

“I loved that they tied that timeless

look back into the name of the city,”

Hart said. “I appreciated that detail.”

Since then, Hart, along with the city council

and staff, have been tirelessly looking

for ways to not only

build on that timeless

The plan serves as a development guide to help officials determine where to focus their efforts between now and 2030. Its approach centers on attracting quality residential and non-residential development, increasing citizen engagement and proactive government, and focusing on regional cooperation among all the Lake Cities communities.

Per the city website, the plan outlines three areas of recommended strategies and actions: • Land development strategies, including policies that will determine the use of land and the aesthetics for all public and private development in town

identity and small-

• Infrastructure development strategies, including physical infrastructure such as water, sewer, roadways and drainage, and funding-related policies and policies that relate to human capacity building

town feel but also

create an environment where residents are

acutely aware of the input they have on fulfilling those goals and preparing for future trends in the city they happily call home.

Hart believes there was a significant step

forward in that mission with the adoption of a strategic plan called Corinth 2030.

14 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

•

Economic development strategies, including activities that will ultimately increase tax revenues

Corinth offers an outstanding quality of life with great educational and recreational amenities. But there is always room for improvement. In terms of the citizen engagement and proactive government piece, the city has redesigned its logo to play up its Corinthian architecture look and feel and will be inclusive of updates to all city paraphernalia and vehicles. The city has also recently updated their website, to be launched in June.

The website was organized and designed based on input from resident focus groups and what they wanted to see most. In the next few months, residents can also expect the launch of a mobile app.

“The website is tailored to what residents want to see,” Hart said. “We used results from resident surveys to discover why they go to the website and what information they are seeking. It allowed them to be a part of the process and provide input.

No matter what outlet they utilize, we want residents to feel engaged with us and empowered to find information on their own.”

To provide transparency and accountability, timely and accurate information, and public engagement, Hart said the city distributes information for residents daily on Facebook, Nextdoor, and Twitter along with their current Corinth Connections newsletter.

A Communications Ambassadors Program was also created to share information about City initiatives through a grassroots, word-of-mouth strategy. The ambassador program is expanding from nine members to 12, will meet six times a year, and will make communication suggestions to staff based on feedback from residents.

“From the city council to the mayor, everyone is enthusiastic and engaged,” Hart said. “Everyone is focused and working together for a better future for Corinth.”

WWW.CITYOFCORINTH.COM communityrelations@cityofcorinth.com

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

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JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 15

A Little Piece

COUNTRY

of HEAVEN

by Steve Gamel

W

hen Bob Brawley moved to Southern California 15 years ago to further his horseback

riding career, he had no idea he’d wind up meeting his future wife. And, in an ironic

twist, it turned out she actually knew quite a bit about this total stranger.

As the story goes, Dana Brawley was

an accomplished rider, too, and, though she hadn’t met Bob or his family, she

was well aware of how well-respected

the Brawley name was throughout the equestrian world.

In fact, ever since she was 17, she had been riding horses at Blue Fox Farm, a sales barn located in Escondido,

California. The sales barn accepted

horses from all over the country, but Dana preferred to ride horses that came from Sponsored Content

Brawley Farms in Oregon.

“If it was a horse from Bob Brawley,

then I wanted it,” Dana said with a laugh.

“Who knew we’d meet 15 years later?

Now, I am a Brawley. Nancy and Kenny

Nordstrom, our mutual friends, introduced photography by David Erdek Photography

us, and we never looked back.”

Bob agreed in his soft-spoken yet engaging voice.

“It’s quite a story,” he said with a smile.

It’s been quite the fulfilling journey for Bob and Dana Brawley, who

have now been married for nine years.

They relocated to Double Oak in 2011

and eventually built what is now the third Brawley Farms location in the United

States. The farm that started it all is in

Jefferson, Oregon and was built in 1974

by Bob’s parents, Tom and Judy. His sister, who lives in Portland, runs the second

stable. This latest piece of country heaven, located off Simmons Road across the

street from Lantana, has quickly endeared itself to both riding and non-riding

residents as an equestrian’s dream.

With more than 17 acres of lush pastures and scenic trails, the farm includes a

large covered arena that is directly accessible to the barn, an outside derby field with natural jumps, and ample turnout paddocks. They offer a lesson program for riders who do not own their own horse, junior and amateur hunter, jumper, and equitation training for all levels of competition, exceptional fullservice equine boarding and training for competition horses, and more.

But what’s most inspiring is that when Bob and Dana first purchased the property, all that was there was the house and the lake; the rest of it was open fields.

Everything you see today was built and designed by Bob and Dana. And they literally thought of everything … from a massive observation room for guests to a fully-stocked equipment room.

In addition to supplying saddles, bridles, and

Bob is the oldest of four siblings and grew up doing every farmhand job imaginable, from feeding animals to cleaning horse

stalls, bailing hay, driving tractors, doing irrigation work, and even picking rocks.

Naturally, the jobs got more difficult as

he got older, and if it took two or three of them to complete a task, then that’s what they’d do – no questions asked.

“We liked it; we never felt overworked,”

Bob said. “My dad made it really fun, even if it was a chore that had to be done. As

much as I loved the farm, though, my true passion was riding. My dad has always

been a do-it-all kind of guy, and he used to help my mom with the horse shows in the summer. When I was 16, he said he

wasn’t going to do that anymore and that it was going to

be my job. I drove the

helmets, Brawley Farms owns five lesson horses that are available to lesson program riders.

The only equipment a new rider needs is a pair of snug fitting jeans and closed-toe shoes with a heel.

“Until you arrive on site and tour our facility, you don’t realize the full scope of what we offer,” Dana said. “Bob did a great job thinking of literally everything.”

Bob said it was important to him to follow in the footsteps of his parents.

“Like any business, you change with the times. But our basic design and business model is the same as it was in 1974,” Bob said. “It’s a model that worked for my parents, so why change it? It’s served us well over the years.”

He added, “I’m a farm boy born and raised,” he said. “Not many people can say that anymore.”

horses, the equipment, and did everything I needed to do to make it work.”

Bob boasts

more than 30

years of experience

on the hunter jumper

circuit and is known

for his classic style,

quality horsemanship, and

unwavering attention to detail. Part of

his rise to popularity was because of that move to California, which allowed him

to compete in horse shows nearly every week due to their close proximity to his stable in Del Mar.

It’s a life he takes pride in and wouldn’t trade for anything, especially after

relocating to Texas. And with Dana by

his side, what they’ve created here is like heaven on earth.

“It’s a little piece of heaven here,” Bob said while staring lovingly at Dana. “You really do feel like you’re in the country.”

760.801.6655 | www.BrawleyFarmsInc.com | 200 Simmons Rd. | Double Oak, TX 75077 | Visit Tues. - Sat. during business hours www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 17

Foodie Friday DFW: Z Grill & Tap

Z GRILL

& Tap

This week we got to visit with Shawn and Zara Mash, the three-year owners of Z Grill & Tap, who have recently finished making some fun, new changes to this beloved local hangout spot.

One of the things Z Grill & Tap is probably best known for is its live music. Whether it’s New Year’s Eve or just a normal weekend, the team always has something fun happening. You can find live music Wednesday through Saturday evenings at Z Grill & Tap, and they’ve also recently introduced live jazz music on Sundays.

To better serve their customers, they also just wrapped up remodeling the entire interior of the restaurant. Shawn (an architect by trade) was committed to making the floor plan flow more to allow for more dining space and room for dancing. The interior has new paint, new TVs, and they moved the stage to allow for that extra dining and dancing space. They also added a special VIP section near the dance floor. We’d like to be a VIP!

Shawn and his team also overhauled the equipment and technology in their POS System and the kitchen to allow for better service. Plus, they’re rolling out a new menu featuring gluten-free and vegan options.

photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

W

e always love visiting new restaurants in the area, but just as fun is visiting some of our previous Foodie Friday restaurants who have made some big changes!

You’ve probably also noticed their new signage as you’ve driven by. They have incorporated a new look all the way around, but it’s still the same great food and entertainment you’ve come to love!

With all these new changes, one thing has always stayed the same. Shawn and Zara always comment on how grateful they are for their regular customers who call Z Grill & Tap their local spot! And it really is the perfect hangout - it’s open 7 days a week and they offer Happy Hour every day from 3pm to 7pm.

So, this weekend, head to Z Grill & Tap for some live music, delicious food, and to check out their new look! Shawn and Zara are so excited to share it with you!

972.691.2300 www.zgrillandtap.com 2321 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028

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

18 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

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JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 19

THE LIBRARY2GO BOOKMOBILE PROGRAM

by Steve Gamel

D

eep down, Kelly Born always knew there was a better way to get more books into the hands of children

who, for one reason or another, don’t

have access to them during the summer.

But like all grand ideas, you have to start somewhere.

run all summer, the district has a bus and

“While the bus can hold 2,000 books,

their growing collection of books and,

we are getting closer to that every day.

driver that librarians will use to transport hopefully, reach more children.

A few years ago, Born said several

teachers attended an outside conference

we know we need 5-6,000 books, and

It really has been a huge collaborative effort, and it’s nice to see everything coming together like it has.”

and heard of the bookmobile concept.

As previously mentioned, the bookmobile

Denton Independent School District,

and Born said it took the entire district

consistently show students who do not

each summer to load up their vehicles

it happen.

For Born and other librarians in the

that has meant using their personal time with donated books and distribute them in neighborhoods of higher need.

It hasn’t been an ideal

They eagerly wanted one of their own, banding together to finally make

Born said the bus could hold roughly

2,000 books, which are being

43

situation, and there were hiccups along the

way, but the goal has always been the same.

donated by book vendors,

%

OF DENTON ISD STUDENTS

“We just want books in the hands of

children,” Born said.

“All of us as librarians

and teachers recognized

Live outside the city limits and have little to no access to a public library over the summer.

we have all these children

in our schools who don’t have

access to books over the summer.

So some of us have done our own thing.”

That hard work paid off recently when Denton ISD announced the fledgling

initiative was getting a significant upgrade in the form of what is now a district-

parents, book drives,

is the district’s answer to studies that

read during the summer months lose core reading skills and fall behind when they return to school. Conversely, those who

read four to five books over the summer

achieve a positive impact comparable to enrolling in summer school.

and through other

Recent numbers show 43 percent of

the first year, it

city limits and have little to no access

means. During

will operate two days each week

throughout the

summer and will

make two stops in

each high school feeder

zone. Locations could be

anywhere from school parking

lots to nearby churches, parks, and

commercial businesses like Walmart – wherever the district feels will be a natural access point for families.

The hope is that more days of operation and stops will be added each year.

Denton ISD students live outside the to a public library over the summer.

Therefore, they must pay $50 annually to use the Denton Public Library.

Transportation and access to a free

public library can be an obstacle for

these families. The bookmobile provides them with quality reading material

throughout the summer to prevent the loss of reading skills.

“I can’t help but think, ‘What if we had a

bus for each zone someday?’” Born said.

“We have this grand idea, but you have to start somewhere, and this is where we are right now. It’s exciting; that’s for sure.”

wide program called the Library2Go

“People have been donating books out

For information on the bookmobile, visit

which kicked off June 4 and is expected to

quickly this has grown,” Born said.

org/bookmobile/home?authuser=0

Bookmobile. Under this new program,

20 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

the wazoo, and it’s crazy to see how

https://sites.google.com/g.dentonisd.

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JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 21

SOON-TO-BE

SENIORS Here’s What You Should BE DOING THIS SUMMER

by Steve Gamel

W

e totally get it. You’ve got one more summer before your senior year of high school,

and the last thing you want to be thinking about is more school. Now should be the

time to goof off with friends, go on family

vacations, lay out by the pool, take in a few movies, and yes, maybe squeeze in an allnight binge of Fortnite when the parental units aren’t looking.

You can do all of this, but there also

For example, if you wanted to

up to your college applications. It may

home, UNT is a perfect option and

getting a summer job will give you

Journalism. If you want to go far, Emerson

College Essays Are Critical

on most polls. A quick Google search or

The truth is, you won’t really know what

be a journalist and not be too far from is home to the Mayborn School of

College in Massachusetts is ranked No. 1

in-person campus tour may reveal options you’ve never considered.

Search For Scholarships, Financial Aid

must be some balance. The summer

Not everyone can pay for college out

opportunities to stand out in the college

in the classroom, you may be eligible

in a row, so you’re ahead of the game

apply early and often. There are also

before your senior year is one of your last

of pocket, and if you’re a smarty pants

admissions process and get all your ducks

for a handful of scholarships if you

when August rolls around.

We’re not trying to lecture you, but here

opportunities with a local Chamber of

Commerce or community organization

are just a few productive activities you

like Rotary International where you can

should add to your summer to-do list:

be offered scholarships.

Narrow Down Your College List And

Build Your College Resume

Potential Major

With this tip, think summer internships,

The list of colleges and universities you

volunteer work and community service,

overwhelming, so start by deciding how

College admissions officials want to

what areas of study you want to focus on.

you, and these are just a few ways to beef

can attend in the United States alone is

and summer classes for college credit.

far away from home you want to be and

know anything and everything about

22 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

not be high on your to-do list, but even real-world experience.

the essay topic is on most applications until you officially apply. Now is your chance to start brainstorming ideas

ahead of time and even think of defining moments in your life that have molded you into the person you are today or

shaped your decision on what you want to do for a living. All of these could be great fodder for a potential essay.

How you score on your essay is critical to not only earning a spot in many

major universities but also stand out amid a sea of qualified applicants.

Prepare For Standardized Tests Summer is a great chance to take practice

SAT or ACT exams if you haven’t taken the real thing yet or weren’t too happy with

your previous score and want to try again.

This doesn’t mean you have to study all

day, every day … but every little bit helps down the road.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

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JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23

WHAT ARE YOUR Sleeping Mistakes?

Here are some of the most common mistakes people make before bedtime:

DRINKING OR HAVING A NIGHTCAP: Alcohol can help you fall asleep but it also affects how you sleep. When you go to bed tipsy or drunk it can cause you to have slower sleep patterns, interrupt your circadian rhythm (which can block your REM sleep), have aggressive breathing, and have your sleep interrupted by the need to go to the bathroom. This will lead you to have an unrestful sleep.

BEING NEGATIVE: Being stressed, thinking about what happened during the day or planning the next day makes it hard for you to sleep. Your body cannot relax and your heart rate and blood pressure become elevated. Try meditating, doing yoga or doing something relaxing before bed to help you go to sleep.

HITTING THE SNOOZE BUTTON: We all have woken up to the alarm and hit the snooze button and said, “Just 5 more minutes.”

Well it turns out that it’s not the best for us. When you hit that snooze button and go back to sleep you start your sleep cycle again, which means when you do get up you have not finished a sleep cycle making you more tired than if you had gotten up without pressing the snooze button.

HAVING THE TEMPERATURE TOO HOT: Your body temperature has a cycle and towards bedtime your body temperature gets cooler, which affects your blood vessels. When the temperature in the room is too hot it prevent your body temperature from lowering which means your blood vessels are enlarged and you lose more heat. So when heading to bed put the temperature somewhere in the 60s.

24 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

USING TECHNOLOGY: When we use a device that produces light it tricks our body into thinking that the light is coming from the sun. The body thinking it’s sunny signals to stay awake, stopping the production of melatonin, which is what helps us go to sleep. So instead of scrolling through social media, watching a video or playing a game, try reading a book before going to bed.

HAVING CAFFEINE: Caffeinated items such as coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, and chocolate are great for when you wake up because the caffeine blocks the sleepinducing chemicals in your brain. Once the caffeine takes effect, it takes about 6 hours for half of the caffeine to leave your body. This means it would be best not to have that cup of coffee in the afternoon, because it will keep you up at bedtime.

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Family

School Days :Ask The Expert

F

I

T

N

E

S

It Starts At The Dinner Table

S

by Valorie McGilvra, Teacher and Life Coach-ADHD/Parenting

W

hen you ask your kids what they want for dinner, do they say?

A. A favorite home-cooked meal B. Chick-fil-A, Panda C. Order pizza

•

summer. We do have family dinners, but

•

My childhood memories of setting

the table and helping prepare meals with mom.

•

It is becoming a fortune to eat out.

•

Healthy-Home-cooked meals are

• •

Time- between baseball and my

husband’s work schedule this always puts a wrench in our dinner plans.

•

Planning-I start with good intentions, then I drop the ball. All it takes is a

few days of unplanned dinner, and my car’s GPS takes over, and I am ordering a #5 combo!

•

Routine-Once again this skill

comes from the part of your brain that controls Executive Function, so I struggle with this as well.

Once you identify why your goal is

important and what obstacles you’ve

encountered, then you are ready to write your new goal and plan of action.

going to be healthier, and you can

Step 1: Write your goal. I want to have

Doctors attribute many diseases

sure your goals are clear and reachable,

control what is going into your food.

family dinner three days a week. To make

to diet.

each one should be:

It is really the only time to sit with

• Specific (simple, sensible, significant).

everyone and connect.

• Measurable (meaningful, motivating).

Teaching your child how to cook,

• Achievable (agreed, attainable).

table etiquette, measurements,

timing, learning what ingredients to

use, and how to mix and match them for a perfect meal. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

• I want to use our money wisely.

Step 3: What are the possible obstacles, and how will you overcome them?

• Action: Make a menu and a grocery list in advance.

change in my family’s life, and here’s how

a family dinner is important to me.

• I want my family to eat healthily.

•

been successful.

to “coach” myself to make this important

First, I wrote down the reasons why having

• I want to have a regular family time that will help foster strong, healthy relationships with my family.

• Lack of Planning/Preparation: I wait until I’m driving home to plan dinner.

they are far and few between. I decided

I did it.

share with family.

Step 2: Identify the reasons why your new goal is important to you and list the reasons why you want the change.

Next, I wrote down why I haven’t

My boys will choose B or C more often

than not. I want to change all of that this

Communicate with people,

limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive).

• Relevant (reasonable, realistic, and resourced, results-based).

• Time-bound (time-based, time-

• Extracurricular Activities: Baseball, soccer, music lessons, etc.

Honor the day and time I set for our family dinners. Be prepared for life’s events to happen and set another day, so you still get in your minimum weekly family dinners.

Step 4: I now have a doable plan.

I will have three family dinners per week.

I will choose three dinners and have them prepped ahead of time on Sunday. If we miss a day, I will go back and figure out why it didn’t happen and readjust the day or time.

Want to join me? Give it a try and let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear from you. Val@ADDitudeCoaching.com.

Quick Tip: Try playing some family conversational games at the table to keep it lively. We play guess the capital, and famous people named George…

Check out: Marriage 365 Blog for dinner conversation starters. https:// www.marriage365.org/blog/40family-questions-to-ask-at-thedinner-table?rq=dinner%20table JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 25

photo courtesy of Tina Henderson

20 Questions With

TINA HENDERSON With Lake Cities Chamber Of Commerce And City Of Corinth

by Steve Gamel

L

ake Cities Living recently sat down with Tina Henderson, one of the more recognizable, selfless, and community-minded residents in the Lake Cities community. Not only is Tina the face of the Lake Cities Chamber of Commerce as its Executive Director/President for the past three years, but she also just celebrated her one-year anniversary as one of the newest members of the Corinth City Council.

In her recent interview with us, Tina was gracious enough to play an old-fashioned game of 20 Questions.

1. Lake Cities Living: Why do you

enjoy being as community-minded as you are?

(A) A big part of it is that I watched

my dad do it. My dad instilled in me

the importance of giving back. Also, when I was a young lady, I went to a

women’s conference, and the speaker

to fuss in the past and say, “Why don’t

(A) I have no idea. When Cooper was

process. I see that now, and that has

granna. We still don’t know how he

they do this?” But everything is a been very interesting to me.

4. Lake Cities Living: If you couldn’t

work in your current roles, what would you do for a living?

there talked about the importance of

(A) I would do public speaking. I have

More than anything, it was my dad.

at conferences, and I enjoyed it.

being a part of your community.

2. Lake Cities Living: What is your

emceed at a conference and spoken

5. Lake Cities Living: What is your

little, I always tried to get him to say came up with that.

8. Lake Cities Living: What’s your favorite color?

(A) Orange. I really like fun colors like oranges and reds.

9. Lake Cities Living: If you were stuck in an elevator with one person, who would it be?

favorite trait about yourself?

(A) Someone who can get me out

(A) I would say the camaraderie.

(A) I’m really hard on myself,

stuck in an elevator.

it was in Louisiana, Missouri, or here,

and am good at connecting people.

favorite thing about the Chamber?

Everywhere I’ve ever been, whether the Chambers have always been important to me.

3. Lake Cities Living: What is your

favorite thing about being on the city council?

(A) Getting to see the interworkings of the city. I never realized how

complex things are; I always wanted 26 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

but I would say it’s that I love people, I love keeping people together.

6. Lake Cities Living: What is your least favorite trait about yourself?

(A) My lack of self-confidence.

7. Lake Cities Living: You are known as “Yaya” by your grandkids. Where did that come from?

really fast. I would not do well being

10. Lake Cities Living: What’s your deepest darkest secret?

(A) A lot of people don’t know my lack of self-confidence. But I don’t know if that’s a deep, dark secret.

11. Lake Cities Living: If you had to

karaoke one song, what would it be?

(A) What a Wonderful World. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

12. Lake Cities Living: What’s the

dumbest way you’ve been injured?

(A) When I fell off the top deck

of a Mardi Gras float and broke my tailbone.

13. Lake Cities Living: Do you have an unusual talent?

(A) No. 14. Lake Cities Living: Who is the

funniest person you know in the Lake Cities area?

(A) Gary Peppers with State Farm.

He’s hilarious.

15. Lake Cities Living: Would you rather trade your looks for smarts or your smarts for looks?

(A) I am not sure I have enough of either. I guess I would say I would

trade my looks for smarts because

you can always get plastic surgery.

16. Lake Cities Living: What is your favorite food?

(A) Seafood.

17. Lake Cities Living: What’s your favorite movie?

(A) Steel Magnolias 18. Lake Cities Living: Who is right

more often, you or your husband?

(A) Well, of course, it’s me.

19. Lake Cities Living: Who or where

would you haunt if you were a ghost?

(A) A few family members who shall remain nameless.

20. Lake Cities Living: Have you ever worn clothing with the labels and tags still attached?

(A) No. I just think that’s horrible when people do that. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 27

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER T

with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

he Denton County Sheriff’s Office Training Unit falls under the Support Services Division. It is under the command of Captain Kelly Fair and is composed of one Lieutenant, one Sergeant/Training Coordinator, one Range Master, and a Training Deputy.

The Training Unit is responsible for the career development of officers by finding or providing specialized courses appropriate to their assignment areas.

The Training Unit also manages the Denton County Sheriff’s Firearms Range and keeps records of firearms qualifications.

28 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2019

The Training Coordinator will monitor transcripts to ensure the availability of certification/re-certification classes to keep officers current in CPR, Impact Weapons, TASER, Firearms, etc.

The Training Coordinator also ensures compliance of agency members with rules established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement as to hours required and courses required to maintain a peace officer license, jailer license, or tele-communicator license.

Interns from Colleges and Universities are under the purview of Training.

2018 Major Accomplishments •

The Denton County Sheriff’s Office Training Department taught a total of 25,066 contact hours of onsite training, which accounts for more than 50 TCOLE accredited classes.

•

Ninety-three students attend the Denton County Sheriff’s County Corrections Academy, which includes students from the Collin, Wise, Montague, and Lewisville police departments.

We are hiring Detention Officers. If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization. Detention Officer positions start at $37,623 per year.

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

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E N D C N E E P DAY E D IN

Celebrations

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

T

he Fourth of July is a time to gather with friends and family in commemoration of America’s birthday and remember how lucky we are to live in this great nation!

If you haven’t decided on the right place to celebrate this year, here are a few ideas!

DENTON’S FOURTH OF JULY

Denton Downtown Square | 110 W Hickory St. • Denton, TX 76201 Denton is hosting its annual Independence Day Celebration that will keep you active all day long! Kick your day off with the Liberty 5K run or 1-mile walk down the streets of the Denton Square. Race day registration is $30 from 6-7 am. Or you can register online for $25 at www.discoverdenton.com; online registration closes July 1st at midnight.

Enjoy the 9am Yankee Doodle Parade that begins at the Hickory-Locust corner of the Square and will travel down to the Denton Civic Center for the Fourth of July Jubilee including carnival games and fun contests, and much more.

End your day at the Apogee Stadium (1251 S Bonnie Brae St. • Denton, TX 76207) for the traditional Kiwanis Firework Show. Gates will open at 6pm with a variety of live music and the fireworks will begin at 9:30 pm.

LAKE CITIES FOURTH OF JULY

101 E Hundley Dr. • Lake Dallas, TX 76065 The Lake Cities Fourth of July event brings together the communities of Lake Dallas, Corinth, Hickory Creek and Shady Shores for a free day of festivities at the Lake Dallas City Park. The day will begin with a grand parade starting at 9 am, followed by a day of fun contests, food, vendors, and live music! The day will end with an awe-inspiring firework show! See infomation on page 19 www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

JUNE 2019 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 29

Ask The Expert: Fitness

LOOK YOUR BEST forSummer

W

ith vacation and beach days quickly approaching, most of us are now thinking about looking our best while dressed in our finest. Too bad that losing body fat is a slow and steady process, rather than an instantaneous fix.

However…I do have an extremely effective 2-step method for losing belly fat faster than ever, and I’d like to share it with you today so that you can utilize it to look and feel your best this summer.

This step requires zero extra effort on your part! In fact all you have to do is NOT do something that you’re currently doing! Stop consuming refined sugar, in all its forms. This means no sodas, no desserts, no packaged snacks, no candy, no mocha lattes, NO SUGAR AT ALL! When you stop to evaluate your diet, it may be shocking to find out how much refined sugar has crept in. Nothing will contribute to fat gains as swiftly as consuming sugar, so it makes sense that cutting sugar out is the top must-do for shedding those unwanted pounds.

It’s not necessary, or beneficial, to starve yourself during this time of rapid fat loss – you should fill in your diet with lean meats, vegetables, nuts and seeds as you cut out the refined sugar. Keep your metabolism high by fueling up on high protein, high fiber, low carb, and zero sugar foods whenever hunger strikes.

Here’s the step that requires some effort, but trust me when I say it’s worth it.

You crank up the intensity of your workouts to a whole new level.

Most people take exercise on with the slow and steady mentality – moving, pushing and pulling as little as possible while still “getting the job done”.

I’ve got some news for you…if you still have belly fat to lose then the job isn’t getting done.

If you can comfortably hold a conversation, hardly break a sweat, or feel the same when it’s over as you did when it began, then you’re simply not pushing yourself hard enough while you exercise.

Increasing the intensity of your workouts requires focused intent. You must go into the session with the goal of pushing your body to the limit. Remember, it’s a contained time frame that will be over shortly, so bear down and deal with the discomfort. With practice you will learn to embrace the burn.

The safest and most effective way to crank up the intensity and effectiveness of your exercise time is to work with a qualified fitness professional, such as the team at Jesse James Fit and Outlaw FitCamp. We would love to hear from you!

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

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| JUNE 2019