Lake Cities Living Magazine October 2020

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020 Medical Experts Issue

It Ain’t Just About

PEPPER A T

M R S.

L I V E L Y’ S!

Corinth - Hickory Creek - Shady Shores - Lake Dallas

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TABLE OF

Contents ASK THE EXPERTS 13 Fitness with Outlaw Fitcamp 22 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing 29 Travel with Terri Guthrie ARTICLES 08 How to Talk to Your Doctor Without Pulling Out Your Hair

10 Inside Community and Education 12 Meet Joyful Restoration 15 My New Hobby In A Nutshell 18 Track and Field: Guyer’s Brynn Brown Commits To North Carolina

19 8 Halloween Movies You Must See Again

21 Foodie Friday DFW: Rusty Beagle 23 Volleyball Team Serves Up Community Project

24 Sheriff’s Corner With

Sheriff Tracy Murphree

26 Mental Health Services Are Important In Denton County

27 Save Your Pumpkin Recipes 30 Pumpkin Decorating Without Carving

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PAGE

16

It Ain’t Just About

PEPPER

AT MRS. LIVELY’S! Cover Image Kevin and Judy Lively of

Mrs. Livey’s Cajun Konnection

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 5

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

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors

Bobbi Byrne

GO BIG

Gourd OR

E

HOME!

veryone loves a good pun, right? I sure do! This time of the year is my favorite; cooler weather, pumpkins everywhere, the anticipation of neighbors passing out full-sized candy bars, and a good Halloween pun. Just a basic Internet search led me to a few good ones I had to share with you.

I hope these Halloween puns don’t drive you batty. Ha! Get it?

Want to hear some skeleton puns? They’re very humerus!

It’s going to be a great Halloween – I can feel it in my bones!

If you’ve got it, haunt it.

I have a few vampire puns, but they suck.

Ghosts make the best cheerleaders. They have lots of spirit!

Pumpkin’ out Halloween puns like it’s nobody’s business!

Use these puns with friends and family and see if you get a laugh. With all the seriousness going on these days, smiles are everything. I hope this helps get you in the spirit of this ghoulish holiday.

However Halloween and trick-or-treating looks like this year for you and your family, we would love to see pictures! Pumpkin patch photos and ones of your littles dressed up in their best costumes are always fan favorites.

We hope you enjoy this issue. And don’t forget to carve out some time for pumpkin decorating!

Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor

Steve Gamel, Brooke Ezzo, Diane Ciarloni

Advertising Inquiries

sales@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock

Alyson Modene

Cayla Thompson

Photography

Nick Allen Photography

Your Candid Memories Photography

What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography

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 Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@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 Livings 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 spook-tacular Halloween!

Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 7

Medical Experts Article

HOW TO TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR WITHOUT PULLING OUT YOUR HAIR

by Contributing Writer

Y

ou go to see a physician because you want to learn about the issues you may be having with your health. The reality is you will only have seconds to say anything about your situation. After this, a physician will have a question, comment, or redirect the conversation. If you wonder if your doctor even hears what you’re saying, you are not alone.

Communication This is not everyone’s experience when

they go to see their physician, but it is a common one. There was a recent study

patient’s health. When a person disagrees with what a physician says, they

and not so much about your health history.

Both can help and physicians know that

more than 80 percent of proper diagnoses are made by effectively listening to

their patients. A list and notes can help a physician remember what they have

already told you. If you have your story

must respectfully communicate it.

may want to hear about your symptoms

and questions ready, a

Trust must be built and

IN MANY CASES,

communication with their patients. Less

them. There are certain

THERE IS A

these same physicians believe their talks

communicate effectively

DISCONNECT BETWEEN

disconnect between patient and physician

Make Notes

conducted that showed over 74 percent of physicians believe they have satisfactory

maintained between

than 22 percent of patients treated by

things a patient can do to

were adequate. In many cases, there is a

with their physician.

that is difficult to accept.

Working Together

It may help if you have

some notes about your

PATIENT AND PHYSICIAN THAT IS DIFFICULT TO ACCEPT.

It is understood that the better a physician

condition before you go

the higher a chance a patient will get

know the questions you want to ask, you

patient must work together to improve the

Patients have to realize that physicians

and a patient can speak to one another,

to your doctor’s appointment. When you

the correct treatment. A physician and

will listen more closely to the answers.

8 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

physician will be ready to listen.

Honest and Accurate On the other side, it’s important to remember your

physician has many

patients who have not told them the whole truth about their

symptoms. This usually

happens when it involves something a

patient doesn’t feel comfortable speaking about. These topics often involve a sexual

question as well as the illegal use of drugs www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

or alcohol and more. It’s important to try and work on developing a relationship with your physician where you are comfortable being

honest and accurate

They often follow various educational models such as rapport, empathy, support, partnership, explanations, cultural

PATIENTS HAVE

about any issue

involving your health.

TO REALIZE THAT

about the best way to

PHYSICIANS MAY WANT

It is important to ask

contact your physician with any follow-up

questions. Feel free

to communicate with

TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR

your physician about

SYMPTOMS AND NOT

the experience you’ve

SO MUCH ABOUT YOUR

Physicians appreciate

HEALTH HISTORY.

your care as well as had in their office.

this type of honest

communication. They believe it helps

them learn more about the care they are providing and how their office is operating.

Physician’s Barriers

competence, as well as trust --which is better known as RESPECT. There is also acknowledge, introduce, duration, explanation, as well as thank you -- or AIDET. Some medical experts try

If you are experiencing a communication problem with your physician, you may need to seek ways to correct the situation.

You should always work with a physician that makes you feel as if you can trust them. A doctor who makes you believe they are listening to what you have to say about your medical issues. At the end of a visit, you may want to go over with your physician what was discussed and make certain you are both on the same page.

This can lead to a better understanding between the two of you and result in more effective communication taking place.

to teach physicians how to effectively communicate with their patients emphasize the Four

Es. This involves engage, enlist, educate, and empathize. This method is used as a way to help patients become active participants in their health care plans.

Try to understand your physician is also facing things that put up a

barrier for them when it comes to effectively communicating.

•

Patients being confrontational and

resistant to answering questions by

those who are providing them care.

•

They may unintentionally use jargon a

•

It is possible there is a cultural barrier

•

A patient or physician could

patient could misunderstand.

between a physician and their patient. simply have a lack of effective

communication skills. This often

involves not knowing when or how to respond to specific nonverbal cues.

•

There could be an avoidance of social

•

All physicians have a fear of

and emotional issues. being sued.

Communication Models Physicians are always trying to learn how

to communicate better with their patients. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY

AMERICAN PICKERS IN DENTON COUNTY Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz and the team from American Pickers will be filming throughout the state during November and they will be coming to Denton County! This popular series is known for exploring the world of antique “picking.” The team is looking for leads. If you or someone you know has a large collection of hidden treasures, send them your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST.

INSIDE EDUCATION

HIGH SPEED TRAIN APPROVED The Federal Railroad Administration has approved the high-speed train that promises to transport passengers from Dallas to Houston in 90 minutes. Texas Central Railroad, the company in charge of the project, expects to start construction in the first half of 2021.

HOMEWORK HOTLINE

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ONLINE Denton ISD fans will have a new option for viewing team sports this fall. Varsity games will be streamed live on NFHS Network. This streaming service allows anyone interested in any Denton ISD high schools to subscribe to the Network for an annual subscription fee of $70. Not only will you have access to most athletic events, but you can also watch high school sports from around the nation. Visit www.NFHSnetwork.com and search, Guyer High School.

10 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

In partnership with Texas Women’s University and the Univeristy of North Texas, Denton ISD has opened the homework hotline. It is a free service offering over the phone and Zoom homework assistance to students who participate in the Dual Language and English as Second Language programs in grades 3-8. Students can receive support from approved volunteers Monday through Thursday between 4pm-8pm. Students are to call the hotline at 940.369.0466. photo courtesy of Jamie Wilson www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

LAKE CITIES TRUNK OR TREAT Fri., Oct. 30 | 5pm-7pm Lake Dallas City Park 101 E. Hundley Dr. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065

HICKORY CREEK PD BREAST CANCER AWARENESS FUNDRAISER October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and the Hickory Creek Police Department is graciously raising money to bless a member of the community that is fighting breast cancer. If you would like to nominate someone you know who lives in the Lake Cities community, message Kristy Bleau with the Lake Cities Area Buzz Facebook group with the person’s name, contact information, and a paragraph about what they are going through. Most information will be updated in the Facebook group throughout the month of October.

ARTWORK DISPLAYED AT SCHOOL BOARD CONVENTION Lake Dallas High School senior Lanie Schantz had her artwork displayed at the annual TASA/TASB Convention, placing her among the few in the state to have their artwork represented. This year the display took place virtually from Sept. 30- Oct.2, with many school representatives in attendance. Lanie’s artwork displayed was a painting titled, “Through the Chaos,” which investigates how making art helps counterbalance the stress of life as student-athletes. Congratulations, Lanie! photo courtesy of Anthony Tosie www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

Halloween family fun! Join your community for another year of festivities put on by sponsors Point Bank and many more. There will be food, candy, games, golf cart parade, costume contest, pumpkin decorating contest, balloons, and a special edition band (sponsored by the City of Corinth.) To enter the contests, visit www.LakeDallas.com/Trunk-or-treat.

DISTRICT OF DISTINCTION, AGAIN! This marks the second consecutive year Lake Dallas ISD has been named a District of Distinction for its visual arts programs and initiatives by the Texas Art Education Association, making the district one of just 43 in the state to earn the prestigious honor. photo courtesy of Anthony Tosie OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 11

Medical Experts Article

Meet JOYFUL R E S T O R A T I O N

W

photo courtesy of Joyful Restoration Wellness

e are a group of faith-based, licensed professionals that is devoted to health and healing of the body, mind, and spirit of each person. We believe our multi-faceted approach results in a more effective and efficient healing, and it is our desire to guide individuals, couples, and families toward better functioning in all areas of their lives. Our prayer is that each person may discover their inner joy along the journey to a healthier version of themselves.

Our vision is to create a holistic wellness facility that promotes physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual well-being from the inside out. We envision a community in which non-judgmental and compassionate professionals view all people as capable of change.

Our wellness services currently include counseling, chiropractic, and psychiatric care.

940.239.3575 | www.JoyfulRestorationWellness.com | 2214 Emery St., Ste. 510 • Rayzor Ranch, Denton, TX

12 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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Fitness: Ask The Expert

WORKING OUT

WITH CONSISTENCY

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

T

o accomplish your fitness goals, consistency is arguably one of the most important components. Making a commitment to a regular workout routine increases your fitness level, improves your overall health, and offers a greater sense of mental well-being. But what are the tricks to staying consistent?

Step One: Create a Workout Plan.

Committing to a fitness plan, regardless of your goals, means mapping out and physically writing (or typing!) an actual plan. Whether it’s for a single activity or a series of activities, they are a written commitment to put your fitness goals into action. Without a long-term physical plan in place, there’s often a drop-off in enthusiasm and action.

Programs keep you on track. You won’t have to think about what you’re going to do that day – it’s already written out.

Depending on what your end goals are, each program or part of your program can have a different focus – endurance, strength, cardio, etc. Be realistic. Each day should be designed with your goals in mind – follow your plan consistently!

Step Two: Adapt.

•

Cardiac muscle hypertrophy

If you have a program and don’t follow it, your body can’t adapt because there isn’t an opportunity for progressive overload (we want this!), which is when the amount of stress on your body is gradually increased over time, leading to increased strength and performance.

•

Increased force production

A lot of things happen inside of your body during exercise. Over time, your body changes, becoming stronger, growing, or running more efficiently. Different factors affect adaptations in everyone, and there’s no way to know when changes will occur.

However, being consistent with training will increase the likelihood of seeing adaptations sooner!

Check out this report “Physiologic Responses and Long-Term Adaptations to Exercise” from the CDC for more examples, including: •

Improved ability of muscles to use fat as energy

•

Stronger ligaments and tendons

•

Increased VO2 max and lactate threshold

•

Increased number of capillaries in muscles

Step Three: Create Habits.

We’re all creatures of habit. The more we practice, the more natural it becomes.

Think about babies learning to walk, or when we learned to drive – it’s the same with exercise. It’s completely normal to feel out of your element if you’re trying a workout, fitness regime, class, etc., for the first time. But the more you do it – the more comfortable you’ll feel.

Research suggests that to make something a “habit,” it needs to be performed for 68 consecutive days.

The idea of sticking with something for 68 days can feel overwhelming. Focus on taking it day to day. Once you’re comfortable with one small change, add another, and then another.

Outlaw FitCamp CAN and WILL help – on all fronts. We’re here to help you create a plan. We’ll help you gradually adapt to exercise and work with you on the consistency to help you reach your goals. Walk in to one of our Outlaw FitCamp locations. Take our “Find your Fit” quiz at OutlawFitcamp.com. Become an Outlaw family member today!

972.355.2639 • JESSEJAMESFIT.COM | 940.497.6002 • OUTLAWFITCAMP.COM

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OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 13

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MY NEW

Hobby IN A Nutshell

by Jean Eisenmann | photo courtesy of Jean Eisenmann

I

have a new hobby. Ever since Covid-19 forced us to become semi-homebound, I’ve had more time to be, well, bored. Yes, I’ve worked remotely, experimented with new recipes, and increased my housecleaning regimen (is my nose growing?). But I’ve lacked having a passion — such intense interest in something that I want to learn everything about it to escape the stresses of pandemic life. Quite by accident, I found it — squirrel watching.

Building, gently picking gnats, ticks, or some such whatnots from their coats. Adorable.

One squirrel, in particular, was my favorite and could be identified by a dark brown ring around his nose and mouth, much

It began innocently enough, with me

believe this critter was a male, and if you

like a COVID-19 face mask. I named

the window at the many varieties of birds

please consult the internet. Anyway, I

surrounded our birdbath and would lie

didn’t disturb the birds as they picked the

like an hour. Then, Corona would bury

idling on the couch one day, staring out

that our feeder and birdbath attract. Over the next several days, I set aside time to observe how

interesting birds are, and how they all

have personalities

akin to their species.

Of course, I made sure the intense

daily housecleaning

was completed first.

wonder how I came to that conclusion,

him Corona. He dug up the flowers that

became captivated by his manners, for he

prostrate on the cool soil for what seemed

THE ENSUING WEEKS FOUND MY PASSION FOR THE SQUIRREL WORLD INTENSIFIED. I WORE A LOT OF BROWN.

Then, at 2 p.m. on

ground for dropped seed

some edible treasure reserved for a late-

He waited his turn, and

where his buttocks had been. Tears filled

from the feeder above.

night snack in the very same soil, right

with a nod to the flock as

my eyes.

they flew away, ate the

spoils. What a gentleman!

I was hooked.

Bye-bye, birdies.

I’ve met a few squirrelly

guys in my time, but this

a Friday, to be exact, it appeared. No, not

four-legged variety quickly became the

bounded into the yard. It was brownish

weeks found my passion for the squirrel

Sasquatch. And not a UFO. A squirrel

rust with big brown eyes and a fluffy tail,

which are very unusual characteristics for a squirrel. Of course, I had seen squirrels

in the yard before, but my focus had been on the feathered friends. All those five hours wasted that I’ll never get back. I www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

new object of my affection. The ensuing world intensified. I wore a lot of brown.

They had such endearing mannerisms:

holding food with their little hands and

I asked my husband, Van, if we could put together a play area for them with a tiny slide, sandbox, and trampoline. If not,

how about a teeny-tiny bounce house?

Van slept in the guest room that night and called me “Rodent Mom.”

Rodent? Then it dawned on me. My

thoughts traveled back to fifth grade,

where I learned that squirrels were part

of the – gulp – RODENT family. Corona’s cousin could be a field mouse!

menacing claws, hanging upside down as

Let the squirrels live their lives. I’m

feeder like Godzilla on the Empire State

housecleaning regimen before I go nuts.

they wrapped their feet around the bird

getting back to concentrating on my

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 15

It Ain’t Just About

PEPPER A T

M R S.

L I V E L Y’ S!

by Diane M. Ciarloni | photo of Kevin and Edith Lively by WHAT’S THAT GUY’S NAME? | Photography by Guy T

W

e’ve all been in a Cajun restaurant. We walk in and think Bourbon Street and New Orleans. Our imagination smells the gumbo, the étouffée, and the blackened fish. We actually feel the sense of celebration that comes with New Orleans, including the contagious beat of foot-moving Cajun/Zydeka music.

Our food comes, and we deflate like a pricked balloon as soon as we taste it.

It’s coated in cayenne pepper; so hot we want to raise a white flag of surrender.

And we can’t even remember what

that blackened lump was before it was blackened. Fish? Chicken?

None of that disappointment is part

of the experience waiting for diners at Mrs. Lively’s Cajun Konnection in Lake

Dallas. The first difference is you won’t see Mrs. Lively’s by accident, which is

why owner Kevin Lively refers to it as a “destination restaurant.”

“Very few people just ‘happen’ to find

us,” he says. “We’re completely off the

beaten path, which means you get driving

directions and then you intentionally seek us out.”

Mrs. Lively’s is 24/7/365 Mardi Gras,

in spirit and in decor. And the food?

The food is mouth-watering, belly-filling, country Cajun. Crisp okra. Red beans, simmered and seasoned, with rice.

The grits are to die for, as is the beautiful, golden catfish.

Anything and everything “food”

comes under Kevin’s passionate

obsession with the focus on quality, freshness, authenticity, and total customer satisfaction.

Kevin, with his grandmother, Edith Lively,

began “cooking” when he was three years old. It was in a tiny kitchen in a modest

trailer in Vidalia, Louisiana, where he, his

grandmother and his mom, Judy, all lived.

The dishes that came off the stove and

out of the oven were Edith’s recipes, and Kevin still uses many of them today.

“Listen,” says Kevin, “we were about as

poor as snakes. My mother was widowed young, and we were responsible for

ourselves. I mowed lawns and had other odd jobs until I went to work for Burger King at 15.”

He moved up the BK hierarchy, relocating with the company to DFW in 1998 and switching to Tom Thumb a short while

later. It was always about food for Kevin, always stoking the thirsty fire Edith lit in him years ago.

Kevin launched a traveling concession business before opening the doors to

Mrs. Lively’s. He concentrates on festivals/ special events across the country, such as

the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque.

940.279.4299 | 721 E. Hundley Dr. • Lake Dallas, TX 75065 16 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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Dubbed Mrs. Lively’s Southern Cuisine, Kevin holds his “traveling food” to the same standards as the restaurant.

“People experience our unique tastes at the fairs and always ask where is our restaurant. Mother wanted me to have a restaurant but things didn’t line up until 2 ½-years ago when this place came up for lease.”

in their pickups with

tables and chairs in the

back. I put up a canopy

with tables and chairs, but they

did it first. I also got music to the

outside. They celebrated birthdays and

anniversaries. Sometimes they even put cloths and flowers on the tables.

“Our kitchen is small. We had to figure

The location was occupied for many years by Neal’s Italian Restaurant. A rapid succession of several turnovers followed Neal’s. Mrs. Lively’s will mark its three-year anniversary May 8, 2021, longer than anyone except Neal’s.

out a new way to physically operate.

Mrs. Lively’s did not escape COVID-19 but, as Kevin describes it, “It was hard on the kitchen but great for the cash register.

him to open a Mrs. Lively’s. He hasn’t

“It’s impossible to describe how our customers rallied to support us. They put out the call on social media and word of mouth. They were very vocal. They came

It’s incredible how much space is

needed for a row of 9x9 boxes with lids. That part was hard.”

Kevin still has the concession business, and three or four towns/cities are after

decided but, “My customers have proven to me that our food is worthy.” Pictures of

grandmother Edith and mother Judy hang in the foyer of Mrs. Lively’s, and Kevin is

The made-from-scratch cooking, the home-blended spices and the stringent quality control are strong drawing cards for Mrs. Lively’s. If the kitchen gets super busy, you may wait a bit longer than usual for your food. “I’ll feed a trash can before I serve something that’s not fresh or is below par in quality,” Kevin says.

His other drawing card is Judy Lively, referred to as “Mama” by the guests.

She’s a gracious, straight-walkin, Louisiana-talkin woman who’s very, very proud of her son. Together, they’re the perfect host and hostess for their delicious bayou experience.

represented by the “K” in Konnection.

It’s all about family.

D I N I N G R O O M O P E N | O U T D O O R S E AT I N G | B Y O B | L I V E M U S I C E V E R Y F R I & S AT www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 17

TRACK AND FIELD: GUYER’S BRYNN BROWN

COMMITS TO NORTH

C A RO L I NA

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer senior Brynn Brown is in the news again. Arguably one of the top runners in the country, Brown announced on August 24 that she has committed to North Carolina. The big announcement comes two months after Brown was named the Gatorade Texas Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year.

“I didn’t really expect to make a decision this early,” Brown told the Denton RecordChronicle. “I just felt something click. I really felt like that’s where I wanted to be.

Why wait? I got the offer and accepted.

And here I am now. It’s been an exciting past 48 hours.”

As of press time, Brown was one of three more prep distance runners to choose

Chapel Hill. And many people would say she is the centerpiece. Brown broke the tape in the outdoor 3,200-meter run at

the Coppell Relays

“EVERY ACCOMPLISHMENT IS GREAT, AND I’M SUPER GRATEFUL AND BLESSED.”

Brown’s decision makes perfect sense. The Tar Heels already boast one of the top cross country and track programs in the nation, but coach Chris Miltenberg has been dead set on becoming a national power while also building for the future. Just last year, his strong women’s signing class included Taryn Parks of Greencastle Antrim in Pennsylvania, Sasha Neglia of Dobyns-Bennett in Tennessee, Ava Dobson of St. Joseph’s Catholic School in South Carolina, Sarah Trainor of Franklin D. Roosevelt in New York, and Kelsey Harrington of Virginia High.

18 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

in 9:58.58 in late February, which

ranked as the fastest girls time in state

history and as the nation’s No. 12

performance of

all-time in the event. She also recorded a time trial of 9:39.38 in the 3,200, which,

had it been official, would have shattered the national record by eight seconds. As a sophomore, Brown won the Class 6A 3,200 title in 10:09.91.

She also won state in the 1,600 with a time of 4:48.37.

Brown’s rise to notoriety hasn’t come without adversity. As a freshman, she

suffered an injury that could have ended

her career much too early. Clearly, she has found a way to overcome those setbacks and is now on track for a huge final push to her high school career.

“Brynn is no stranger to adversity. She has endured multiple season-ending injuries, unfortunate falls, and most recently, the loss of an outdoor track season to the pandemic,” Guyer coach Megan Sprabeary told Gatorade after Brown won that award. “However, she has handled it all with dignity and grace. She uses each disappointment as motivation toward her next goal.”

Brown agreed, adding that she wouldn’t be the runner she is today without her coaches at Guyer.

“Every accomplishment is great, and I’m super grateful and blessed,” Brown told the DRC. “I wouldn’t trade my experiences at Guyer for the world. The coaches are amazing. There is an expectation every day that you’re going to put in the work and get better, not just for yourself, but to build a program, culture, and team.”

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HALLOWEEN MOVIES YOU MUST SEE AGAIN

by Steve Gamel movie posters photos courtesy of IMDB (https://www.imdb.com/)

H

alloween is almost here.

To get you geared up for the big night, we compiled this list of must-see scary movies that have managed to stand the test of time.

Some are the type you’d be OK with having the kids watch while others are cult classics that are definitely on the adult side. Either way, why wait until Halloween when you can grab some popcorn, turn the lights off, and start a chilling movie marathon throughout the month of October?

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SCARY MOVIES FOR THE KIDDOS

SCARY MOVIES FOR ADULTS

Edward Scissorhands A scientist with good intentions creates an animated human being (Edward) but dies before he can finish. This leaves poor Edward with scissors for hands as he tries to live in an average suburban neighborhood. Another mustwatch classic by Tim Burton that is great for the entire family.

Scream (all of them) “What’s your favorite scary movie?” — Ghostface. Say what you want about Scream, but there’s something about this series of four slasher films that are funny, clever, and scary. The films follow Sidney Prescott and her war against murderers who adopt the guise of Ghostface.

Halloweentown If you’re looking for something light for your small kiddos to watch, Halloweentown is a great choice courtesy of the Disney Channel. The series consists of four films that ran between 1998 and 2006.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula Everyone loves a great movie about Count Dracula, and this is perhaps the best one out there.

This is a perfect movie to watch on Halloween after the kiddos have finally gone to bed.

Hocus Pocus This is a funny tale starring the hilarious and odd trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. A curious youngster moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches that were executed in the 17th century.

Just like Beetlejuice, word on the street is there’s a sequel brewing.

Poltergeist Another Steven Spielberg flick that became an instant classic. There’s just something about that small, blonde-haired girl that will instantly creep you out for weeks. “This house … is clean.”

Gremlins Never feed a Gremlin after midnight. If you do, they may just take over your entire town. Kids and adults will definitely get a kick out of this 1980s masterpiece directed by the great Steven Spielberg.

Exorcist Out of all the scary movies you could watch this Halloween, this is one you must fit into your movie marathon.

The Exorcist (1973) is one of the most profitable horror movies ever made and is based loosely on actual events.

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 19

20 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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Rusty BEAGLE

Rusty Beagle: Foodie Friday DFW

by Jay Marks | photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

I

f you’re looking for a place where “everybody knows your name” and where you can get some of the best wings and burgers in town, then look no further than the Rusty Beagle located off FM 407 on the Lewisville and Highland Village border.

Husband-and-wife team Charles and Jackie Carlock took over running the restaurant in 2015 after Charles’ dad, Rusty, passed away from cancer. The two have continued Charles’ father’s legacy and have created a beautiful environment where everyone feels welcome from the customers to the staff.

The Rusty Beagle is, by definition, a sports bar, but it’s also a gathering place for Little

League Teams, a family dinner spot, a Super Bowl party venue, a great place to grab some lunch, and so much more.

We did mention that these guys have some of the best wings and burgers in town - in fact, they recently won Best Wings from Best of Denton County 2020!

They have a wide range of sauces for their wings ranging from Mild to Asian Sesame to Mango Habanero, and you can order them naked or breaded.

Two of their crowd-favorite burgers are the Rajun Cajun made with blackened seasoning, sauteed mushrooms, pepper jack cheese, bacon, and a creole aioli; and their namesake burger - The Rusty - which is topped with tender smoked (in-house) brisket, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, chipotle BBQ sauce, and two halved bacon-wrapped jalapenos. Yes,

that’s real life. That sucker is about 2 feet tall and it’s delicious.

The Rusty Beagle also has some killer sandwiches on their menu like their Triple Stack Clubhouse Sandwich and their Reuben made with house-made corned beef, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing.

And, of course, at the center of the Rusty Beagle is their bar which has 24 taps with craft beers that rotate through seasonally, cocktails, whiskeys, wines, freezer shots, and more. They have Happy Hour every day of the week with different daily specials, and on the weekends you can find live music on the patio.

All in all, between the food, the environment, the people, and the sports, you’ve got to make the Rusty Beagle your new hangout. You’ll love getting to meet Charles and Jackie and the whole team and you’ve got to try out The Rusty Burger while you’re there!

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

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OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 21

Ask The Expert: Organizing

the time and not being consistent with where you keep things confuses and frustrates everyone.

Next, a Family Command Center should be fairly simple, visually speaking. If you

have too many notes, agendas, calendars, and to-do listed posted all over the place, you may create information overload and add to the chaos.

Finally, tailor your command center

to fit the current needs of your family.

The Center of Everything

E

Remember to update the information as

it changes. Here are a few ideas for what

you could add to your command center: •

A family calendar with

•

Baskets for each family

As your children grow, they start school, develop new interests, and become involved in extracurricular activities.

All of these things are fun but can take some adjustment. You may need to start coordinating carpool schedules, preparing school lunches, and keeping track of homework. How do you keep it all straight without losing your mind?

As your children enter high school and college years, they are almost fully grown.

On top of that, they have developed agendas of their own — agendas independent of your agendas. This can be freeing for both of you, but you still need to be in the loop about the big events. How do you effectively keep track of your grown children’s schedules without being invasive?

Maybe you and/or your spouse have a heavy workload, so you don’t get to see each other as often as you would like.

How do you coordinate your schedules so you can meet in the middle more often?

You can use one of my favorite organizing tools to stay on top of it all: A Family Command Center.

This is simply an area, in your home, designated to hold everyone’s schedules, important dates, and frequently used household information.

member’s current projects/ school papers/misc.

by Crystal Nerpel, Owner of Cloud Nine Organizing

very stage of a family’s lifecycle brings with it special scheduling challenges.

Keeping up with the busy lives of all family members can be a bit overwhelming if you don’t have the right tools in place.

everyone’s schedules

•

Shopping lists

•

School lunch calendars or school

•

A dry erase board for

•

Household binder with important

lunch ideas

special reminders

information such as contact

numbers, school information, pet/house sitter info, etc.

•

An extra set of keys

•

A secret stash of emergency cash

•

Adding a family motto to your command center is another

Here is how I suggest creating a simple Family Command Center to calm the chaos.

fun idea. Print up your favorite

First, select a centralized location where everyone will know to look for important information, such as the kitchen or den.

Once you’ve chosen the location, stick to that spot. Moving stuff around all

each other.

inspirational quote or create your own family motto as a reminder

of why you want to keep up with Visit CloudNIneOrganizing.com/

Free-Stuff for more of Crystal’s favorite organizing tools.

CLOUDNINEORGANIZING.COM

22 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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goes beyond a simple team photo day.

It includes sponsoring one or two dogs

Serves Up VO L L EY BA L L T EA M

CO M M U N I T Y PROJECT

T

by Steve Gamel | photo by Kelly Koele Photography

he Lake Dallas volleyball team has unveiled its new team photo in the form of a giant banner on its gymnasium wall. This is really nothing new, as nearly every program around the state does something similar to commemorate the start of another season. But even the quickest glance at it will tell you this year’s photo op serves a much loftier purpose. Posing next to each of the 13 Lady Falcons in that photo is a pack of adorable dogs from the Denton Animal Shelter.

The team is partnering with the shelter throughout this season to raise awareness for pet adoption. “I have six seniors this year, and we told them that we really wanted to do a community service project that would give them a chance to give back to the community in our own special way,” second-year head coach Kristinn Holbrooks said. “Our theme for the year is ‘Leader of the Pack,’ so naturally, we wanted to do something with animals.”

Holbrooks added, “It turned out better than I ever could have thought up on my own.”

each week on social media to help them

find a loving home. Players will also show up at the shelter weekly to play with the dogs and decorate windows. With help

from her mother, Tamara Schantz, Lanie spent an entire weekend sewing Lady

Falcon themed bandanas for each pup to wear. The plan is to eventually sell those

bandanas to local families with pets, with all proceeds going back to the shelter.

Lake Dallas also plans to host a dog toy drive at several of its games.

“I had paragraph after paragraph of ideas and plans laid out,” Lanie said. “I sent

it to the girls on the team and basically

said, ‘Does anyone have anything to add because I’m about to send this email?’

They were all shocked. They basically told

While the initial idea was concocted by Holbrooks and long-time Lake Dallas assistant, Phyllis Brahinsky, they hoped the girls would take the idea and make it their own. And that they most certainly did, thanks largely to senior right-side hitter Lanie Schantz. According to Holbrooks, it was Schantz who emailed nearly every local animal shelter to gauge their interest.

It didn’t take long for the Denton Animal Shelter to fall in love with the idea, mainly because Schantz had already organized her own plan of attack.

me, ‘no — I think you’ve got it all covered.’”

The multi-tiered approach, which will play out over the course of the season,

Holbrooks agreed, saying that she

Schantz has been a Student Council

member for several years, so organizing events and community service projects

came easy for her. At the same time, she admitted she’d never taken on such a

large project, and it took hard work from

everyone on the team to make sure it went off without a hitch.

“You could tell the dogs were having a great time,” Schantz said. “They loved the attention.”

couldn’t be happier with the leadership of this year’s team.

“Everyone was blown away by it — I think

Lanie had everything organized, planned, and contacts made within two weeks of

us bringing up the idea,” Holbrooks said.

“Just the fact that these girls selflessly and

willingly take time out of their day to go to the shelter every week means a lot. What more can you ask for?”

If you’d like to help the Lake Dallas

volleyball team, you can visit the Denton

Animal Shelter to adopt a pet today. You

can also check out the team’s social media sites for toy drive information. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 23

SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

Intern to Captain DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE SPOTLIGHTS CAPTAIN KELLY FAIR

C

aptain Fair began her career at the Denton County Sheriff's Office as an Intern in 2005, where she shadowed Forensics and Patrol. In April 2006, she was hired full-time as a Detention Officer. She was hired in Patrol later that same year, where she worked various shifts as a Deputy Sheriff. In 2009, she was promoted to Patrol Corporal. In 2011, she moved into the Administrative Patrol Corporal position, where she assisted patrol shifts with supervisory duties, managed the Patrol Field Training Program, testified in grand jury hearings, and continued as the liaison to the water district and contract deputy positions. In August 2013, she was promoted to Sergeant of the Criminal Investigations Division assigned to Forensics, and in 2016 promoted to Criminal Investigations Lieutenant. In March 2017, she was appointed to Support Services Captain. Captain Fair currently oversees the Support Services Division, which encompasses the Professional Standards Unit, Quartermaster, Radio Services, Training, and Technical Services.

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 a Texas Ranger in Denton County, I was introduced to Kelly Fair, a new

intern for the Denton County Sheriff’s Office. It was apparent from the start

that Kelly had a thirst for knowledge and an outstanding work ethic. Kelly was a

“go getter” and learned very fast. I then watched as Kelly worked her way up

Captain Fair completed the Peace Officer Academy in August 2005. Later that same year, she graduated with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Texas Woman’s University while interning with the Denton County Sheriff’s Office. In December 2012, Captain Fair earned her Masters of Business Administration Degree while working as a Patrol Corporal for DCSO. While working as Forensics Sergeant in August 2014, she completed the

University of North Texas Forensics Science Academy. Captain Fair currently holds an Intermediate Jailers license and a Master Peace Officer license. Captain Fair was awarded DCSO Officer of the Year in 2012 and 2017. She has also received the Academic Recognition award from Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Captain Fair’s son, David, is currently an SPC serving in the United States Army in Ft. Hood. She resides in Denton County with her partner Joel.

in the organization and did a great job at each level with professionalism and

integrity. After being elected Sheriff, an opening for Captain became available.

It was my honor to appoint Kelly to the

rank of Captain. Kelly has continued to

be the professional she has always been

and serves the people of Denton County with ethical integrity-driven leadership.

I’m very proud of Kelly and her

accomplishments and it is an honor to

serve with her.” –Sheriff Tracy Murphree.

940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 24 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 25

MENTAL HEALTH

SERVICES

ARE IMPORTANT I n

D e n t o n

C o u n t y

struggles due to the risks of contracting

COVID-19. Thankfully, CARES Act funding allowed MHMR to receive funds as part of Operation: Connecting Lives to

purchase iPads to assist in connecting

with the elderly population, especially

those in nursing homes who have been especially isolated.

United Way of Denton County is another organization that has been on the

frontlines serving our residents in many ways including mental health. UWDC leads the Denton County Behavioral

Health Leadership Team, which advocates and facilitates for a collaborative personcentered behavioral health system to repair and restore lives.

Interested residents can attend a

free-8-hour course on adult mental

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

health first aid to equip them with a

five-step action plan to respond and refer an adult who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

O

ctober is National Mental Health Month, which provides the perfect backdrop to stop and assess exactly, “How are you doing?” As stressful as life is normally, COVID-19 has magnified stressors in everyone’s life and pushed the boundaries of our mental health.

Another population in Denton County

Statistically, Americans rank high in the realm of mental health issues. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 26.3 percent of adults 18-25 suffered from a mental health issue in 2018. During 2009-2017, adults 18-25 suffering from major depression increased 63 percent.

The senior population (55 and above) in the U.S. is estimated to have 20 percent of the demographic struggling with a variety of mental health issues, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 40 million adults, around 18.1 percent of the U.S. population, suffer with chronic anxiety, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

The U.S. spent $187.8 billion on mental

Incarceration provides a plethora of

abuse disorders in 2013. An estimated

still being among a constant population.

treatments alone, according to a

this population and keep them healthy.

who has a great need for mental health

assistance is our inmates, juveniles, and the public in crisis situations.

health conditions and substance

restrictions, rules, and even isolation while

$70 billion was spent on depression

Our County recognizes the need to serve

SingleCare report.

Denton County has spent over $1.3 million

These statistics remind us that many of

to provide mental health assistance for

struggling with mental health, suffering

a mental health crisis through the Sheriff’s

the added pressures of life due to the

and the Denton County Public Health’s

our neighbors in Denton County are

our inmates and the public experiencing

in silence at an even deeper level with

Office Mental Health Investigative Unit

ongoing pandemic.

Jail Health Program.

Denton County’s MHMR has reported a

During this month of mental health

elderly population since the onset of the

these initiatives and assist each other

true struggle to remain connected to their

awareness, let’s do our part to continue

pandemic. People are not coming out to

in ensuring mental health services are

seek assistance with their mental health

available to all in need.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you at andy.eads@dentoncounty.com or 940.349.2820 For more information, register for my newsletter at www.Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup.

26 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | OCTOBER 2020

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Pumpkin Save Your

Recipes

A

re you finding yourself failing once again at pumpkin carving? Don’t just throw it away – while you might have intended it to only be a decoration, you can easily turn it into a great dish or a sweet treat. Here are two great recipes that will recycle your sad jack-o-lantern attempt. So ditch the pumpkin spice latte, and get into your kitchen to whip up a bit of fall flavors in your own home (or don’t ditch the latte, we won’t judge).

ROASTED SPICY PUMPKIN AND SQUASH INGREDIENTS

PUMPKIN COOKIE DOUGH INGREDIENTS •

1/2 cup pumpkin pureed in blender

•

1/2 cup vanilla flavored protein powder

•

1/2 cup gluten-free oat flour

•

1 tablespoon of maple syrup

•

2 tablespoons of almond butter

•

1 tablespoon of almond milk

•

dark chocolate chips

2 pounds fresh pumpkin, peeled & seeded

•

1 tablespoon salt

•

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

•

3 whole yellow squash

•

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

INSTRUCTIONS

•

1 onion

•

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

•

4 tablespoons olive oil

•

(optional) sprig of thyme

In a bowl, combine the pumpkin, protein powder, flour and maple syrup.

Mix together thoroughly.

•

INSTRUCTIONS Pre-heat oven to 200°C or 400°F. Carefully peel and seed the pumpkin. Cut pumpkin and squash into 2” cubes.

Cut onion into several wedges.

Place pumpkin, squash and onion into a large roasting tray before drizzling olive oil over it.

Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika and cayenne pepper over the mixture to ensure everything is properly coated (you can add more or less cayenne depending on your taste and spice level).

In a small sauce pan, melt the nut butter with the maple syrup and add to the pumpkin mixture until fully incorporated.

Add almond milk to desired consistency. Leave in fridge for a day or so for best results.

Bake in the oven for about 30 to 45 minutes or until everything is soft & also tinged brown at the edges.

Before serving sprinkle a bit of thyme over the top and garnish with sprig of thyme. www.LakeCitiesLiving.com

OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 27

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TEXAS

Travel: Ask The Expert

Back R ad TRIP!

by Terri Guthrie

T

here’s no better time to take a little road trip down some scenic back roads.

Get off the busy interstate and meander to Granbury. As you go south, you’ll be entering the Texas Hill Country.

We’ve taken this road trip many times and always discover something interesting and exciting!

- it’s legendary for fabulous musicals since 1886.

Granbury

This is a charming place with nice shopping and great restaurants. Granbury has one of the best town squares in the state and is crowned by a beautiful historical courthouse. They even have horse-drawn carriage rides around town.

Be sure to see the Granbury Opera House

home cooking and blue plate specials.

Then work it off at Siloville, a converted grain silo turned climbing gym.

Marble Falls

This quaint town has several awardwinning wineries. But our favorite stop is at the famous Bluebonnet Café. They make amazing pies with mile high meringue. It’s one of the most famous pie joints in Texas!

Texas charm definitely radiates throughout the streets of each of these little Texas towns!

Hico

This is a real Wild West town and even has a Billy the Kid Museum and Festival. The Koffee Kup is a family restaurant and is a Texas landmark known for its delicious

FOLLOW TERRI ON INSTAGRAM @TRAVELWITHTERRI AND HER TRAVEL BLOG AT TRAVELWITHTERRI.NET

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OCTOBER 2020 | LAKE CITIES LIVING | 29

PUMPKIN

F

without Carving

all is just around the corner and as you may have recently noticed during your most recent grocery shopping trip, pumpkins have returned once more. Soon it’ll be time to decorate your home with jack-o-lanterns and autumn decor however you may encounter an issue. You have no skills at carving a pumpkin. What makes it worse is that all the pumpkin carving kits have horribly flimsy tools that bend easily and barely make a dent in even the softest pumpkins. What’s worse is having to reach in and scoop out all the slimy seeds and try your best not to get it everywhere. After all that. . . the pumpkin lasts maybe a few days before turning green in the warm humid weather.

Luckily we have several alternatives that are not only easy but also free of pumpkin guts. Since they do not require damaging the pumpkin, it’ll ensure that they last much longer than your standard jack-o-lantern. There are several options to choose from to suit your skill level and talent so you won’t be stuck with a failed pumpkin (we’re lookin at you Pinterest). So take a look then head over to your local craft store.

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

2 pumpkins & 1 can of gold spray paint

1 pumpkin & 1 - 50 yard stool of straw ribbon (raffia)

1 pumpkin, paint brushes, black paint & pencil.

Wipe the pumpkin down with soap and

Start by choosing a pumpkin with a stem.

water to get off any oil and dirt. Once it’s

Tie the end of the ribbon around the

dry set it outside on paper or anything you

stem to anchor it. Use the grooves of the

don’t mind turning gold. Shake the can for

pumpkin to guide you, they will also help

a minute to ensure you get even coverage

keep the ribbon from slipping. Use the

before spraying a thin even coat around

stem to wrap the ribbon around it before

the pumpkin. Wait 20 minutes then apply

moving on to a different groove (hot glue

another coat then repeat 2 more times. Let

also does the trick). Once done secure it with a

dry for a day and viola! One can should be

knot and make a bow from the ribbon to

enough for 2 pumpkins.

place on top.

Draw small jack-o-lanterns around the pumpkin with the pencil. With a smaller paint brush paint the edges of the pumpkins first along with the face.

Once all of them have been completed, finish painting the rest of the pumpkin black. You may need 2-3 coats to ensure the pumpkin is fully covered. The end result will be a black pumpkin with cute mini pumpkins revealing the natural orange underneath.

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