Lake Cities Living Magazine June 2020

JUNE 19, 2020 - JULY 17, 2020 Dental Issue

BEST The

OF TIMES

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 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 3

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo

Advertising

Kelly Murray Kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene Cayla Thompson

Photography

What’s That Guy’s Name?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUY T 469.500.5657 www.whatsthatguysname.com

Letters

Lake Cities Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become

It’s

Summertime SO MAKE IT ONE TO REMEMBER

S

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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. © 2020 Murray Media Group

•

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

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

before. Just be mindful of social distancing guidelines.

•

Master a new skill or talent:

This can be for you or the kids.

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

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

said he’s going to teach his littlest

son how to ride a bike this summer,

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

•

Check-in on your 2020 goals:

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

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

What ideas do you have for this summer?

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

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

DENTAL ISSUE LOOK FOR THE ICON

ASK THE EXPERT 13 Fitness with Outlaw Fitcamp

On The Cover Is Lake Cities Fire Chief Michael Ross

ARTICLES 06 5 Bad Dental Habits 09 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate 10 Inside Community & Education

FEATURED ARTICLE

16 The Best Of Times

18 Hickory Creek Resident Spreading The Message of Thanks 21 Crossing the Finish Line 22 Community Corner 24 20 Questions with New Guyer Head Coach 27 Falcon Determination Lifts Senior to State

EDITOR’S PICK

28 Veterans Volunteer to Clean Up War Memorial www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

29 Home is Where the Work Was 30 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 5

Dental Article

BAD DENTAL

HABITS

by Contributing Writer

O

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

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

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1

LIMITED BRUSHING

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

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

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

2

RARE FLOSSING

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

3

NAIL BITING

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

4

USE TEETH AS SCISSORS

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

5

HAVE BRUXISM

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

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

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J2 Steakhouse: Foodie Friday DFW

J2 STEAKHOUSE T photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

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

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

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

by J.W. Degan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY

LAKE DALLAS ANIMAL SHELTER EMPTIES DOG RUN

FARMERS MARKET NOW OPEN Saturdays through October 31 | 7am-12pm | Lake Dallas Public Library 302 S Shady Shores Rd. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 The third annual Lake Dallas Farmers Market is now open in front of the library every Saturday through October. Come out and support local growers and artisans. There is fresh produce, locally made crafts, and locally made food. To participate, contact Natalie McAdams at NMcAdams@lakedallas.com.

Thanks to the incredible community, the LD Animal Shelter’s dog run was completely EMPTY on May 20 due to adoptions! The last time the dog run was empty was over four years ago. Even if it only lasts for a short time this is a huge accomplishment, especially during this historic time. photo courtesy of Lake Dallas Animal Shelter

INSIDE EDUCATION DANCE. SPIN. GROW. Now is the time to join the nationally recognized, award winning Guyer High School Colorguard. No experience needed and auditions are open to anyone interested in dance, travel, and building a strong team. Interested in joining, visit www.Facebook. com/GuyerBand and fill out the Guyer 2020 Color Guard Interest form. photo courtesy of Oscar Ban

THANK YOU, MS. SHARON SIMON Ms. Sharon Simon of Corinth Elementary donated books and materials from her professional collection to the Lake Dallas Public Library. This large donation will go to help the staff of the library and neighboring libraries build stronger programming and provide better service to the public. photo courtesy of Emily January

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JULY 4TH CELEBRATION CANCELLED According to the City of Lake Dallas, the Lake Cities Independence Day Celebration has been cancelled. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and budgetary concerns this is the best course of action for the community to take.

For more information, call 940.497.2226.

DONATE TO THE ANIMAL SHELTER Monday-Saturday | 11am-4pm | Lake Dallas Animal Shelter 687 N Lakeview Dr. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 If you are able to donate, the Lake Dallas Animal Shelter has a wish list. They are in need of dry cat food, dry kitten food, canned dog food, laundry soap, dishwasher pods, Clorox wipes, bleach, and 45-55 gallon contractor bags. Donations can be dropped off at shelter during operation hours.

BEST HIGH SCHOOL, AGAIN! Lake Dallas High School has been placed on the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best High Schools” ranked list for the second year in a row! The publication analyzed over 17,000 schools across the nation based on college readiness, college curriculum breadth, math and reading proficiency and performance, undeserved student performance and graduation rate.

We are so proud!

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SUMMER LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES For parents who are concerned about any learning their student might have missed due to COVID-19 can choose to continue extended learning through the summer months.

Class descriptions and details for self-directed, online learning during June and July are available, visit www.dentonisd.org/summer2020.

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Fitness: Ask The Expert Small goals are easy to attain, meeting

ESTABLISHING

A FITNESS

ROUTINE

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

T

3. Write it out.

Use a planner or a calendar to write down your routine. Having it written in front of you will help you stick to it.

4. Be consistent with time.

To make exercise a new habit, it helps to do it at the same time every day.

5. Try to make it fun.

Put a new workout playlist together, find a group, do whatever you can to make

your routine more enjoyable. Our Outlaw FitCamp classes are lots of fun!

6. Track your progress.

Have a calendar or planner where you can

here’s one thing you can do that will increase your productivity, give you more free time, and help you meet your goals. So, what’s the secret that almost all successful people use? It’s this simple: having a daily ROUTINE.

For most people, the key to meeting goals is to develop a routine and stick to it! It takes self-discipline, but with a few simple tactics, it can be done.

Routines limit having to make decisions all day on which task you should tackle next.

It also limits the stress from feeling guilty for not getting things done.

Having a planned-out, daily routine does the following:

Here are some things you can do to help you stick with your plan.

•

Makes you more efficient.

•

Creates structure in your life.

10 things to do for success with a daily routine:

•

Encourages good habits and eliminates bad ones.

•

them gives you momentum to keep going.

Forces you to prioritize things that are important.

As an example, it can be hard to make the decision every day to go workout. But if exercise becomes part of a routine you already have in place, it’s much more likely you’ll follow through.

1. Prioritize what’s important when planning your routine.

Think about just one or two things you really want to change when starting a new daily routine, and give those priority in your plan.

2. Set small goals.

Don’t immediately go from hardly any exercise at all to exercising an hour a day.

check off tasks as you complete them.

7. Reward yourself.

Set small goals and have a reward in mind for when you get there.

8. Start each morning with a plan.

Make a habit of looking at your calendar or planner first thing each morning.

9. Give yourself time for your new routine to become automatic.

Keep in mind that it takes most people

about 90 days of doing something before it becomes a habit.

10. Don’t get caught up in perfection.

Remember—progress, not perfection!

Establishing a good daily routine will

make you feel great about yourself and

proud of your increased productivity. We

can help you easily fit scheduled workout sessions into your routine. Give us a call and we’ll discuss options with you.

972.355.2639 • JESSEJAMESFIT.COM | 940.497.6002 • OUTLAWFITCAMP.COM

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Neighborhood Find Your Local Home-Based Business Here!

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JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 15

BEST The

OF TIMES

by Steve Gamel | photography by What’s That Guy’s Name? Photography by Guy T (www.WhatsThatGuysName.com)

L

ake Cities Fire Chief Michael Ross has a lot to celebrate. He’s been singing his department’s praises constantly since taking the helm nearly two years ago, and now he’s not the only one. The 53 men and women who protect and serve the region aren’t just his pride and joy; they’ve now been recognized as among the best of the best, taking top honors in a series of reviews and awards by industry professionals.

The recognition is appreciated, but it’s something Chief Ross has known all along.

LCFD has three fire stations to serve and protect residents in Corinth, Hickory Creek, Lake Dallas, and Shady Shores.

The department recently underwent a thorough review by The Center for Public

Safety Management to determine its

ability to protect, educate, and manage the community’s anticipated rapid

growth. Not only did the department pass with flying colors for its existing

structure, training, performance measures, prevention activities, and interactions with the community, but Ross said he

heard that CPSM officials were struggling

To stay up to date with all the latest news regarding the upcoming development, visit www.CityOfCorinth.com 16 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

“Our efficiencies are better. We’ve streamlined our processes. We’ve had some growth and promotions.

It’s just a good time for us right now, even with all the added stress of COVID-19...”

to find anything wrong.

“I’ve always been proud of this

department and will tell people how good it is. But everyone thinks their

baby is beautiful,” Ross said with a laugh.

“It’s nice to have someone validate those

beliefs. They went through us with a finetooth comb and believed like we do that we are taking care of our community.

I like where we are at right now.”

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

The best practices review is just

one in a long line of accolades and

new developments for both the fire

department and the City of Corinth,

which for the past two years has unveiled several steps they’ve taken to put the city on the map. The Fire Department is no

exception. In 2018, the Insurance Services Office (ISO) upgraded the LCFD’s rating from a Class 4/4X to a split Class 2/2Y. The rating is from 1-10, with 1 being

“the best.” Insurance companies use

this information to help establish fair premiums for fire insurance and

generally offer lower premiums in

communities with better protection.

Included in that ISO rating was the

department’s new Station 3, which was under construction at the time and

completed in 2019. The new station put an emergency services presence on the

west side of the community and allows the fire department to provide more coverage and significantly improve its response times throughout the Lake Cities.

The fire department was also awarded

Gold Level for Pediatric Care in April, and

Station 3 was awarded the Texas Masonry Council Golden Trowel Award in October for its design.

Corinth City Manager Bob Hart agreed, saying that it’s those relationships that

have truly set the fire department apart.

“When you talk about effectiveness, you look at what type of difference the fire

“The changes we have gone through,

they’ve all been accepted well,” Ross said.

department is making in the community and how good the communication level is and interaction

“Our efficiencies

are better. We’ve streamlined our

processes. We’ve

had some growth

and promotions. It’s just a good time for us right now, even with all the added

stress of COVID-19.

And by following

our new protocols,

With the fire department firing on all cylinders, the City of Corinth can continue pushing forward with its strategic plan called Corinth 2030.

we haven’t had any

with businesses

and schools with

fire education and prevention. That’s

system that ties into the existing trail network around Corinth.

Hart said.

With an exciting future ahead, significant growth is bound to happen. And when it does, the Lake Cities Fire Department will be there to ensure a safe transition.

do a great job,” With the fire

department firing

on all cylinders, the City of Corinth can continue pushing

forward with its strategic plan called

together and the relationship we have

one of the top growth areas in Texas

with all the towns and cities.” www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

In the near future, there will be a 20-acre mixed-use development at the southwest corner of Corinth Parkway and I-35E. It will include a mix of sitdown restaurants, a hotel, high-end multi-family residences, and a trail

where I feel they

internal contamination. I just couldn’t be happier with the way we are all working

22,000 residents. But the city wants to attract quality residential and nonresidential development, increase citizen engagement and proactive government, and focus more on regional cooperation among all the Lake Cities communities.

Corinth 2030. Corinth has long been and the United States and boasts nearly

“When I came here, the goal was to do our jobs better,” Ross said. “If certain things were working, then great. But if not, what can we do to be better? I am blessed to lead this amazing group of individuals and am honored to be their Chief.”

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Spreading Hickory Creek Resident

THE MESSAGE

OF THANKS

R

by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of Sue Hipp

esidents of the Lakeview at Pointe Vista neighborhood in Hickory Creek, and several curious visitors from the Lake Cities, have been getting out of their homes over the past few months to see what Snoopy is up to next. What? Snoopy? That’s right! A neighbor named Sue Hipp resurrected a stuffed Snoopy that she had tucked away in a closet and has been using him to share messages of thanks and spread some much-needed smiles during the coronavirus crisis.

“I was cleaning out my closet and found him,” she said. “As a joke, I took Snoopy and put him in the driver’s seat of my husband’s car. Then, I sat him on the porch. It was just a fun thing. But one day, I put him on a bicycle in the front yard and made a sign for the trash collectors when they turned onto our street. At first, I thought they figured it was dumb, but just as I was about to tear up the sign, one of them got off the truck and came by to take a picture.”

Not a day goes by where you can’t find

Snoopy comfortably sitting on a chair in

Hipp’s front yard with a homemade sign thanking everyone from postal workers

and trash collectors to teachers, nurses,

and doctors. Snoopy has celebrated Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, and even one

neighbor’s anniversary by special request.

Hipp, a retired mechanical engineer, goes

all out, too, using various props to create a one-of-a-kind scene.

She added, “He didn’t just take a picture.

I mean, he was posing with Snoopy and everything. It really made him smile.”

“With the exception of one day where it was too windy outside, we’ve done

something with Snoopy every day since April,” Hipp said. “We’ve had so many

people just stuck at home and walking

around the neighborhood. I just wanted to inspire people and make them smile.”

with that?” Sue had no idea, so when she

Pictures of Snoopy spread like wildfire

left, she left it in her parents’ closet with a

shared the story. But there’s more to this

The idea was that they’d find it after Sue

on social media. Two news stations also

Snoopy than what meets the eye. Hipp has had that same Snoopy for nearly 30 years.

She bought it while visiting her parents in Ohio, and her dad’s reaction at the time

was, “what on earth are you going to do 18 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

homes and, without fail, would always leave Snoopy behind to continue the prank. The fun trades eventually got less frequent after Sue’s dad passed away, so Snoopy ended up spending several years sitting quietly in Sue’s closet.

message that said she enjoyed the visit. left and would have a good laugh. And they did!

For the next several years, Sue and her parents traded visits to each other’s

Though it took a lot of hard work and a few on-the-fly adjustments, Hipp was determined at that point to do something different every day moving forward. And the result is something her neighbors don’t want to see go away anytime soon.

“That’s my worry,” Sue said of having to stop. “I was thinking about stopping at the end of May, but it’s really open-ended.

It’s just been such a great reminder that there’s always something to be thankful for. I love the smiles that it brings.” www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

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CROSSING C

The Finish Line

by Brooke Ezzo

ongratulations to the Lake Dallas High School seniors who graduated at Texas Motor Speedway on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. Although the graduation ceremony looked different this year, the community rallied behind these students and showcased love and support.

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

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

proper graduation ceremony celebrating all of their accomplishments. And Lake Dallas students have plenty of them, including the positions of valedictorian and salutatorian.

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

salutatorian positions are usually selected based on their grade point averages and considered the highest-ranking students

academically among the graduating class.

For Lake Dallas High School, those

students were named, and we would like to give a huge shout out to

valedictorian, Antonio Banyaga,

and salutatorian, Anthony Kitamura.

What an incredible achievement!

Since the ceremony was unconventional this year, we wanted to give these two students an opportunity to send a message to future graduates.

ANTONIO BANYAGA | Valedictorian Will be attending the University of Texas at Austin, studying Chemical Engineering photos courtesy of Melaynee Broadstreet

“Through this senior year, I’ve really been thinking about the poem, If by Rudyard Kipling. Specifically the part: “If you can make one heap of all your winning And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss”. I interpret it as even if things are going well and you feel at the top of the world, you have to be willing to lose it all and start over from nothing. I really want to apply this to my future thinking. For example, engineering school may make me want to quit when it gets hard, but I have to be willing to humble myself and power through.”

ANTHONY KITAMURA | Salutatorian Will be attending Texas A & M, studying Nuclear Engineering “Don’t worry too much about your grades and about what prestigious college you’re going to. Those are great and all, but soon enough, you’ll be gone and onwards to another chapter of your life. Instead, focus on enjoying high school and the experiences and people that come along the journey.”

www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 21

COVID-19 CONTINUED

A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

state records show that more than

Normalization) to offer Denton County

local food supply as needs increase. In the

County. Currently, our Denton County

applications for up to $10,000 in grants.

opportunities for residents to find the

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

least two testing centers each week –

one at the University of North Texas every

businesses an opportunity to submit

An estimated 1,337 businesses submitted grant applications

from May 13 through

Tuesday, with a second one at different

May 20. Our call

has also set up several testing centers in

calls and we received

be announced for the coming weeks

answers to questions

locations throughout the county. The state

center fielded 496

the county. Additional testing centers will

255 emails seeking

and months.

about the grant

Our Emergency Services Office also

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

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

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

Transportation Authority to provide our

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

application process.

This month, we will

let businesses know

if they have qualified for grants and begin sending checks to

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

assist them in the

the organizations meet these needs by

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

help our area 501c3 organizations. We

anticipate continuing this process as more grant requests come in.

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

planning drive-thru

opportunities to pick up food boxes or

providing hot meals

to neighborhoods in

need through regional food trucks.

Through Denton

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

for our businesses countywide.

gave generously of his time and money

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

eviction. As of May 27, an estimated

assistance, we have worked to help

pantries with supplies,

Gumfory, a longtime Denton County

As our non-profits have seen tremendous

families who have never before requested

bolstering existing

recovery process. We will also soon

countywide housing assistance program

as much as a 400 percent increase from

nutritional food they need to feed their

families – whether by

continue to assist our residents.

growth in demand, some experiencing

coming weeks, we hope to create more

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

business owner and philanthropist who

to support many programs over the years.

He established the Shiloh Field gardens,

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

feed the hungry among us. I want to offer

mortgage and utility payments or to keep

a heartfelt thanks to his wife, Lynn, for her

anticipate the need for housing relief will

in this manner. We believe these efforts

them housed in extended stay hotels. We

support in allowing us to honor Gene

continue to grow in the coming months.

continue his lifelong mission to help

In addition, we are currently working on

plans to expand food supplies to our local

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

non-profits as well as fill in across areas

As you can see, we are committed to

make sure no one in Denton County goes

need. We are certain that, together, we

school districts, around 45 pantries as

and move toward restoring our vibrant,

and even our area farmers to bolster our

we are Denton County Strong.

where food deserts exist so that we can

being there for you in this time of great

hungry. We are working with our local

can begin to recover from this pandemic

well as local food distribution companies

fast-growing economy. Because, together,

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

JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23

20 Questions With

NEW GUYER HEAD COACH

by Steve Gamel

N

ew Guyer football coach Rodney Webb didn’t disappoint when he sat down with us recently to

play a good old-fashioned game of 20 Questions.

1. How excited are you to take over the Guyer football program?

Rodney Webb: I’m really excited for the

new adventure. Guyer football has a great

I enjoy what I do, and I’m not afraid to have fun and smile.

4. With summer basically upon us, what are your plans if you can get away?

Rodney Webb: I think this little break we’ve had took care of that.

5. What is something nobody knows about you?

reputation; the program has been built

Rodney Webb: I was a finalist in the Dallas

that’s something I am used to. So I think

10. Superman or Batman?

Rodney Webb: Superman.

11. As a player, did you at any level slack off during practice?

Rodney Webb: Nope. I was an all-effort guy. That’s how I survived as a football player.

12. As a coach, are you ever just like, “Do we really have to practice today?”

Rodney Webb: No, but I’m constantly

evaluating why we do what we do. I want every minute of every practice to count.

13. Can you out-lift any of your players in the weight room?

Rodney Webb: No. I stay out of their way.

14. If you could coach one NFL team,

which one would you coach and why?

Rodney Webb: The Green Bay Packers,

because their fanbase is the most loyal of them all.

15. Speaking of the NFL, how many

seasons would you survive as a coach?

on hard work, grit, and toughness, and

Golden Gloves heavyweight division in

Rodney Webb: I think I’d be a longterm

high school.

guy.

the transition will be good because of the

6. Do you have any superstitions?

16. What are some of your pet peeves?

Rodney Webb: Sort of like saying, break

Rodney Webb: People who are credit

offensive coordinator before he goes up

17. Who is the most famous person you

way I am used to operating and the kind of kids I’ve worked with.

2. How are you handling the pandemic restrictions?

Rodney Webb: It’s forced us coaches to

reevaluate how we communicate. It’s been educational. We’ve all gotten a little wiser about using technology to communicate.

Instead of talking face-to-face, it’s been

a leg, for good luck, I always tell my

to the press box on Friday night, “don’t screw up.”

7. What’s your favorite sports movie?

Rodney Webb: I’m not a big movie guy, but I’ll go with Eight Men Out.

one-on-one and lots of Zoom sessions.

8. Have you ever cried in a movie, and if

We’re making the best of it.

so, which one?

3. What’s your style? In other words, what

Rodney Webb: I’d say Titanic. There were

can we expect from you as a coach?

several scenes, but that one where the old

Rodney Webb: I’m an open person and

the most.

huge believer in relationships. We’re

going to have fun. I’m one of the biggest

wise guys and jokers. There’s never going to be a moment too serious for me.

24 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

lady threw the jewel into the sea got me 9. What was your first job?

Rodney Webb: I was a courtesy clerk at Safeway.

takers for what others have done. ever met?

Rodney Webb: Matt Ruhle.

18. Who is right more often, you or your wife?

Rodney Webb: I am right 100% of the time.

19. What’s your favorite food that you’d

rather have your players stay away from?

Rodney Webb: Jalapeño cheeseburgers.

20. If you had to karaoke any song in front of a packed gym, what would it be?

Rodney Webb: Depeche Mode’s Behind the Wheel.

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JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 25

26 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

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FALCON DETERMINATION

Lifts Senior TO STATE S

by Nitie Atamenwan, LDISD Communications

am Collier huddled over the barbell and used all the strength he had left to deadlift the 325 pounds that would send him to the State Powerlifting Competition. It had been quite a day for the Lake Dallas High School senior, and Coach Kord Smith couldn’t hide his delight after Collier’s final lift.

“I was extremely proud of Sam making it to state,” Coach Smith said. “We were pretty sure he was going to make it once he reached the 850-pound mark.”

“It was something I had been

Collier got his first taste of powerlifting when his football coaches saw how strong he was and how well he would compete.

They predicted correctly, seeing that he has made three regional meets and one state qualification since then. This year’s regional meet was more difficult than his last two because Collier knew it was his last chance to make it to state.

From his nutrition to his workouts, Collier

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working towards for four years,”

he said. “Finally obtaining my goal was an amazing accomplishment.”

went the extra mile to make sure he

qualified for state. He was determined to make it this year.

“I eat a healthy diet, drink a lot of water,

and keep my weight to the weight class

I wanted to stay in to compete,” he said.

“I also do 100 push-ups and 200 sit-ups

every night to prepare, along with the workout I did in the weight room.”

Of course, his coach noticed how

his discipline is reflected on everything he does.

“The discipline that Sam brings to his

powerlifting has allowed him to achieve great things,” he said. “Powerlifting is a sport that demands rigor not only

physically but mentally. I believe this plays right into Sam’s approach to life.”

In addition to his family and the school

district, Collier is grateful to Coach Smith’s guidance and support.

“Coach Kord Smith was with me at

the meets to push me to do my best

and having him there with me when I qualified meant a lot,” Collier said.

“While I am sad I didn’t get to actually attend the state meet and represent

Lake Dallas, I will always know I pushed myself and earned that spot.”

As expected, Collier’s state

qualification is one that Coach Smith will always remember.

“I was given the privilege of watching him pursue a goal that he had set for himself three years prior,” Coach Smith said. “To

witness him achieving it was a very special moment for me.”

Collier’s goal is to continue his education at Texas A&M while competing with their

powerlifting team. Eventually, he wants to be an athletic trainer for a high school.

JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 27

VETERANS VOLUNTEER TO CLEAN UP

WAR MEMORIAL

by Dawn Cobb

J

une 2, 2020 – Early Tuesday morning, several veterans separately decided to clean the Denton County War Memorial on the Denton County Courthouse-on-theSquare lawn after two individuals sprayed graffiti on it the night before.

“As a veteran, it comes natural to serve Justin Ward, who served in the U.S. Marine and do the right thing,” wrote Chad Corps, read a story in the Denton RecordFinholt in an email. He was one of five Chronicle and decided to stop by and veterans who arrived on their own. Soon, check the memorial, noting the spray employees from the Denton County paint. “I wanted to honor my brothers in Facilities Department and the Denton arms by cleaning it up,” he said.

County Sheriff’s Office arrived with U.S. Navy veteran Troy Ivey was asleep supplies to help restore the memorial when Ward texted him. “I went up to help that commemorates residents of Denton get the job done,” he said.

County who served Joel Edgar, who their country in the served with the U.S. Spanish-American “WE LOOK AT THAT Army, was just finished War, World War I, MONUMENT AND ARE with his shift as a World War II, the REMINDED OF OUR first responder when Korean War, the he stopped by the Vietnam War and the FRIENDS AND FAMILY Denton Square to Persian Gulf War. THAT SERVED BEFORE pick up trash. He saw “We look at that US AND WHAT SO MANY people around the monument and are memorial and decided reminded of our HAVE SACRIFICED FOR to help. friends and family that THIS COUNTRY.” Garrett Woodham, served before us and who has plans to what so many have join the U.S. Marine Corps, saw what sacrificed for this country,” wrote Finholt, who served U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. happened on Monday night at the 28 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

protest, during which two individuals were arrested after nearby protestors pointed

out what was being done to the memorial

to law enforcement officers. “I came today out of respect for the soldiers,” he said.

Denton County Criminal Court 3

Judge Forrest Beadle offered his

thanks on behalf of the “SGT Arthur

O. McNitzky” American Legion Post 71 in a social media post.

“Denton County Commissioners

Court appreciates their honoring the

monument and the men and women which it represents,” said Precinct 2

Commissioner Ron Marchant. “We also appreciate those that returned this

morning to clean the grounds of the Courthouse-on-the-Square for their

thoughtfulness and the pride they have shown in their property.”

Paul Bastaich, Director of Veterans

Services, called each of the volunteers to thank them. “I appreciate their

willingness to go above and beyond

not only in service to our country but

also in cleaning the memorial that honors all of the men and women who have served on behalf of us all.”

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HOME IS WHERE THE WORK WAS

by Jean Eisenmann

I

returned to work today. You can’t see me, but I have one large tear dripping down my left cheek. I guess my right eye remains neutral about the whole situation. First thing this morning, everybody stood around the company’s common area giving each other the once-over, trying to remember everyone’s names. Then they wondered about titles. Passing around business cards was the decided resolution. We have 15 employees.

These seven weeks of working from home changed my attitude about “quality of life.”

I used to think it only applied to animals because the only time I heard it said was from the vet about my dog. Or was he talking about me?

Make no mistake that I accomplished all my job tasks from home, but it was done on my appointed schedule. I even drafted a basic agenda that could be revised depending on each day’s events: 1. Wake up and decide which pair of daytime pajamas to wear 2. Walk around the house in heels every couple of days to keep in practice, then soak feet.

3. Plan lunchtime around “Let’s Make a Deal,” even though it airs at 2 p.m. I don’t

want to DVR it, I want to see it at its regular time. Executive decision.

caught myself surfing the Internet and

For the first time in my work life, I even had two assistants, Buddy and Dusty. They were always by my side, ready and willing to carry out any duties I asked of them: retrieve crumpled wads of paper I had thrown on the floor, notify me if someone was at the door, let me know when it was lunchtime (though they preferred to eat before 2 p.m.). I made sure we observed Administrative Professionals Day.

With the click of an email calling me back

I attempted to recreate the workplace by setting up a little breakroom situation off of my kitchen, complete with coffee and bottled water. My admins were welcome, too, when the pressure of assisting became too stressful. I have never before been in a breakroom without hearing office gossip, but Buddy and Dusty weren’t dishing.

inside you to achieve something, you

I have never before been in a breakroom without hearing office gossip, but Buddy and Dusty weren’t dishing. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Even without supervision, I was very disciplined. Twice I

reprimanded myself both times.

to corporate service, my “former life” re-

emerged, and I was once again bound by the rules for working with others. I really had been very productive during those

weeks, undoubtedly due to my efforts to remain professional. And I wasn’t even wearing shoes. No matter where your

physical work environment may be, if you

have the desire, dedication, and ambition will be productive. But working from

home instilled in me a sense of control

over how I go about accomplishing my

responsibilities. That was powerful, and I rose to the challenge...in pajamas.

All in all, it’s kind of nice to see my

co-workers again. You know, once I

remembered who they were. The hardest part in all this was relieving Buddy and Dusty of their duties. That was ruff.

JUNE 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 29

SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

ASSISTANT CHIEF DEPUTY BARRY CAVER

A

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

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

Chief Caver has been in law enforcement for 43 years, which began in December 1976 when he was hired as a dispatcher/ jailer for the Angelina County Sheriff’s Department in Lufkin, Texas. He was 19 at the time. He later received his Texas peace officer certification and was employed in 1978 as a police officer with the Diboll Police Department. Caver was accepted into the training academy of the Texas Department of Public Safety in 1979, where he spent eight years as a Highway Patrol Trooper before being promoted to the position of Highway Patrol Sergeant in 1987. Caver was later promoted to the position of Texas Ranger Sergeant in 1989.

In 1993, he was promoted to the position of Texas Ranger Lieutenant and stationed in Lubbock. In 1996, Caver was promoted to the position of Texas Ranger Captain, Company “E”, stationed in Midland, Texas, where he remained until his retirement in 2008. Caver retired with a Special Texas Ranger commission and was a Reserve

Deputy Sheriff with the Parker County Sheriff’s Office in Weatherford, Texas.

On January 1, 2017, Caver was appointed

by Sheriff Tracy Murphree as the Assistant Chief Deputy with the Denton County

Sheriff’s Office, where he currently leads

M U R P H R E E

WE ARE

HIRING

If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization.

Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year.

Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty

as Jail Administrator.

Besides being instrumental for the Denton County Jail in dealing with the COVID-19

pandemic, Chief Caver has many notable accomplishments throughout his career.

Caver assisted in the primary investigation of the Branch Davidian compound siege near Waco, Texas in 1993. Caver served

as commanding officer and lead hostage negotiator during the incident involving

a separatist group known as the Republic of Texas, which lead to a stand-off near Fort Davis, Texas in 1997. Chief Caver

was also the commanding officer and

incident commander on the raid on the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints’ compound near

Eldorado, Texas in 2008. With this incident, over 400 children were seized by Child Protective Services. Twelve arrests were made and 16 indictments returned on the alleged criminals involved.

Denton County Sheriff’s Office is extremely honored to have the experience and integrity of Chief Barry Caver on our Command Staff! Chief Caver will graduate from Texas A&M Commerce in the Fall of 2020 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. He is married to Tammy Caver and has a daughter, two sons, and eight grandchildren.

940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 30 | LAKE CITIES LIVING

| JUNE 2020

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