Lantana Living Magazine - June 2015

june 2015

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JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 3

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JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 5

Lantana Community Events

Contents Table of

Featured Stories and News 10

Chamber Connection

11

Protecting Your Assets

The nomination stage for Best of Denton County is open through July 17.

12

Guyer Football

17

First-Aid Kits

18

Guyer Sports Roundup

Fourth of July

20

Briarwood Retreat Center

29

Adkins Fun Run

30

Kroger Marketplace Opens

33

Adkins Welcomes Hero

Vacation Bible School

Lantana Teen Pool Party

North Aminty Center June 26 7-9 p.m.

Want to feature your school’s or organization’s event? Contact us at artwork@murray-media.com 6 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

On The Cover: Liberty Christian School

In Every

Issue 36 07 From Your Editor

Liberty Christian School

46

The Great Need

A

L IV

ING

MAG

A ZI

N

E ’S

Bridgeway Church Joseph Keeping The Dream Alive July 13-16 BWChurch.com

Pg 36

’S TOR EDIPICK

08

Inside Education

15

Inside Community

55

Harpool Run Club

23

The Sidelines

58

Hillcrest Farms

24

Real Estate

Titensor Dental

34

62

Gardening

41

Counselor’s Corner

44

Upscale Home

53

Rejuvenation

42

Dr. Matt

EN

T

Independence Fest 2015 in Flower Mound at Bakersfield Park

LANT AN

Best of Denton County Nominations

2015 R E C

IPI

Photos from Lantana

05 29 52 56

Guyer Prom Adkins Fun Run Guyer Prom Helping a Hero

Enslaved

by Scheduling & Busy

A Message from The Community Editor

H

orribly destructive habits start early, really early. How did we end up living like this?

Why do we do this to ourselves? Why do we do this to our children? When did we forget that we are human beings, not human doings? Whatever happened to a world in which kids get muddy, get dirty, get messy, and heavens, get bored?

Do we have to love our children so much that we over-schedule them, making them stressed and busy – just like us? When did busyness become a badge of honor? What happened to a world in which we can sit with the people we enjoy and have slow conversations about the state of our heart and soul, conversations that slowly unfold as friends learning about each other and their strengths and weaknesses and which “buttons not to push,” conversations with pregnant pauses and silences that we are in no rush to fill? How did we create a world in which we have more and more and more to do with less time for leisure, less time for reflection, less time for community, less time to just…be?

I am guilty. Being enslaved by our schedules and our kids’ schedules zaps our ability to be fully present with those we enjoy the most, and keeps us from forming the kinds of relationships and community that we all so desperately crave.

Of course, it is not just in the work force that people are madly busy. Many people I know, who

might be able to enjoy some downtime because their children are in school and they do not have paying jobs, pile errands on top of volunteering on top of working out on top of, well, you name it.

When the children get out of school, they race from one activity to another, and if at some point life seems to calm down, then it is time to take on a big construction project, get a dog or have another baby.

So with summer here, our kids home more, and more time for what really matters each day, let’s lean in to a better us; a better community of friends!

When someone asks, “How are you?” let’s assume that is really what they want to know. They are not asking how many items are on your to-do list, nor asking how many items are in your inbox. Assume they want to know how your heart is doing, at this very moment. Tell them you are happy, say your heart is aching or your heart is sad or even you are worried about a family member. Examine your own self and then tell something about YOU. Put your hand on an arm to whom you are speaking, look them in the eye (and not constantly at your handheld device), and connect for one second. Tell something personal. Remember that we are full and complete human beings who also crave undivided attention and friendships.

All I know is that we are losing the ability to live a truly personally-connected life. Most of us know what we want: a meaningful life, a sense of community, a balanced existence, a happy family and friends who always have your back. We want our kids to be dirty, messy, and good grief yes…even bored.

As summer has officially begun, I challenge us all to insist on a type of connection where when one of us responds by saying, “I am just so busy,” we can follow up by saying, “I know, love. We all are. But I want to know how YOU are doing and how can I help you.”.

Kathryn Flores Community Relations & Marketing Manager

LantanaLiving.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton

Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Contributors Eric Williams Mark Miller Steve Gamel

Advertising

Kathryn Flores kathryn@murray-media.com Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production Graphic Designers Liz Wallace Stephanie Hansen Whitney Hill Josh Burkham Caroline Brock

Photography

Robert Payne (214) 437-9568 robertpaynephotography.com Scott Young (972) 899-3536 ScottYoungPhoto.com

Letters

Lantana Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@lantanaliving.com. All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising inquiries call (214) 734-5783 or email kathryn@murray-media.com Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100 Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022 Lantana Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher.

Lantana 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. © 2015 Murray Media Group

Lantana Living & Argyle Living Kathryn@murray-media.com (214) 734-5783

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 7

Lantana Residents Honored as Top Guyer Students Five Denton Guyer High School seniors who live in Lantana were among those honored as valedictorians and salutatorians for the Class of 2015 at graduation ceremonies June 5 at the University of North Texas Coliseum in Denton.

Earning valedictorian status were Damian Crow, Alicia Downard, and Jeffrey Miyata.

Lantana salutatorians honored were Max Malone and Andrew Reider.

Crow, son of Greg and Lisa Crow, will study English at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, in the fall. Downard, daughter of David and Karen Downard, will attend the Colorado School of Mines and study geophysical engineering while Miyata, son of John and Princess Miyata, will attend the University of Texas at Dallas and study either chemistry or biology.

Malone, son of Monte and Jeanette Malone, will attend the University of Texas at Austin and pursue a double major in business and economics.

Reider, son of Michael and Collette Reider, will attend the University of Texas at Austin and study computer science.

The quintet was among 32 Denton Independent School District students earning the honors.

Lantana School Offices Open on Limited Summer Schedule Offices at Harpool Middle and E.P. Rayzor, Blanton, and Rayzor elementary schools will be open on a reduced schedule throughout the summer.

Business can be conducted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursday except the week of June 30 when offices will be closed on all days.

Adkins, Barnes & Noble Partner on Summer Reading Lantana’s Adkins Elementary School and Barnes & Noble are teaming up for a summer fun reading and math activities program this summer.

Students can go to the Barnes & Noble website to download a reading journal. After they’ve read 8 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

eight books, they fill in the log and take it to Barnes & Noble to choose a free book from a selection listed on the journal.

The web site even has a list of books suggested by

grade group. It also offers a selection of workbooks to keep students learning.

Three Guyer High School students earned

top-four finishes in the 6A conference division of

the University Interscholastic League Academic Meet held May 26-28 at the University of In

editorial

writing,

sophomore

Bianca

Ramirez placed second while junior Tiffany Wang

second

matched in

her

the

Guyer High School’s Business Professionals of

America financial analyst team placed third in the nation at the 2015 National Leadership Conference

Guyer Trio Rate Highly in UIL Academic State Meet

Texas in Austin.

Business Pros from Guyer Shine in California Event

classmate

persuasive

by

speaking

placing

event.

Sophomore John Fredrickson finished fourth in prose interpretation

In the group events, Guyer’s speech and

journalism teams each tied for sixth in their respective categories.

Guyer’s UIL academic team is coordinated

by journalism teacher Larry Turner, who also coached Ramirez. Wang was coached by speech

in May in Anaheim, Calif.

Winning team members were: Brady Byrd,

Kira Griffiths, Christina Iskandarani and Douglas Palmer. Two students also qualified to compete in

individual events: Max Malone in human resource management, and Griffiths in prepared speech.

The competition required teams to make

decisions and recommendations using financial

and prepared reports. They determined trends, made projections or prepared budgets based

upon a case study and then presented findings to a judging panel.

Guyer High’s BPA sponsor was business

teacher Donna Lowe.

10 Students, Teacher Mentors Recognized at Denton Guyer Ten graduating Guyer High School seniors

teacher Josh Hamilton, and Frederickson was

were

Hamilton

district officials and the Denton Public School

coached

by

speech

and

the speech team.

teacher

Gossett

Karen

combine

to

Gossett. coach

Guyer’s Darby Traylor Earns CoServ Scholarship CoServ

senior

Electric

Darby Traylor

has a

awarded

$1,000

Guyer

scholarship

as part of its W. Tip Hall Jr. Scholarship

Program which honors a longtime educator,

preacher and legislator.

The W. Tip Hall Jr. Scholarship Program annually

awards scholarships to local graduating high school

among

30

throughout

the

Denton

Independent School District to be honored by

Foundation at a special ceremony at the LaGrone Advanced Technology Complex.

The

students

achievements

in

were

recognized

academics

for

and/or

combination of school spirit, extra-curricular efforts and achievements throughout their high school

career. Each named an educator who provided the greatest influence during their district-wide educational experience Guyer

students

educators were:

and

their

designated

students who have an established CoServ connection

•

Brittany Crabtree – Cory Maxwell

Texas. Its namesake served on the CoServ Electric

•

Andrew Hunsberger – Stephen Shade

and will attend a college or university in the state of Board of Directors for 10 years and was a threeterm state representative, serving from 1978-81 as well as 1983-85.

Darby has led a distinguished academic career

at Guyer, having been named an AP Scholar and

December 2014 Student of the Month during the current school year.

their

their

•

• • • • • • •

Damian Crow – Stephanie Taylor Whitlow Charles Drake Lawson – Karen Gossett Jeffrey Miyata – Paula Robinson Max Malone – Misty Moffitt

Eliza Price – Michelle Hanlon Andrew Rieder – Scott Dean

Adam Jackson Scott – Brandy Guilford Michel Tabet – Joshua Hamilton

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 9

Local Ribbon Cuttings!

The er Chamb

n

tio Connec

Jet’s Pizza Don Vito’s Italian Eatery & Safehouse

1121 Flower Mound Rd., #570 Flower Mound, TX 75028 972-874-9900 Mellow Mushroom

2450 Cross Timbers Rd. Flower Mound, TX 75028 214-513-8111

While the quality and taste of the food is number one for Jet’s Pizza, there is also a simple belief throughout the company: “Pizza should be fun,” says John Jetts. “If you’re eating one of our pizzas and you don’t have a smile on your face, then something is wrong.” That fun attitude can be summed up in the company’s simple slogan, says Jetts, “Life is short. Eat better pizza.” That is something that Jet’s Pizza is betting that people across the nation will agree with. They’ve found that it is working so far.

Lantanaresident

Mellow is a state of mind, a culture, a way of being. Our mission is to provide delicious food in a fun and creative environment. We are the originators of Classic Southern Pizza, and our unique and flavorful crust is a true original.

Don Vito’s started with a simple humble understanding, of serving Italian food with the simplest and freshest ingredients in a neighborhood restaurant feel.

We believe “When you walk into Don Vito’s you become family and because of this, we pride ourselves in serving you Italian comfort food. You know, the kind your mom would have made (if she were Italian).”

2001 Cross Timbers Rd., #105 Flower Mound, TX 75028 972-221-5387

10 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Advertisement Local Sponsored Content Family Law

Protecting Your

Assets

in Divorce

By Charla H. Bradshaw

D

ivorcing spouses or those contemplating divorce often have concerns about how to protect their assets. It is very common to have concerns such as “what will happen to my house?” or “what will happen to my retirement?” or “what will happen to my investments?” or “what will happen to my employee benefits?” or “what will happen to my business?”

These are all very valid concerns and go to the crux of divorce law.

When two people marry, they each have a separate estate, and upon marriage they create a community estate. The community estate is owned by both spouses.Texas is what we call a “community property state.” This means that all property is owned by the community estate unless a spouse can prove that certain property is owned by the separate estate.

Separate property and community property are even set out in the Texas Constitution. The most important part of protecting an asset is to first understand which estate owns the asset.

The most common type of separate property is property owned by a spouse before marriage, property that was a gift, or property that was inherited. There is a high standard (called clear and convincing evidence) to prove that property is separate property. A spouse can protect his or her separate property by keeping good financial records during the marriage, and if possible keeping separate property separate from any community property.

The complexity of this record-keeping involves knowing what property is separate property and what property is community property. This is because, for example, certain income from separate

property is community property. When community property and separate property are mixed together (comingled), it may be difficult or impossible to prove which property is separate property. It may be necessary to hire experts to identify the separate property. If a spouse cannot prove the separate property, then the property is community property and a court can divide it. This usually occurs when separate property and community property are hopelessly comingled.

Take for example, a spouse who has retirement such as a 401k on the date of marriage who makes contributions to the 401k during the marriage. This is an example of separate and community property being comingled. The reason is because money in a 401k on the date of marriage is separate property, interest earned on the separate property funds is community property, and the money contributed to the 401k during the marriage is income and therefore community property (absent a marital agreement discussed below).

Money contributed to the 401k during the marriage is not separate property because it is income and therefore it was not owned on the date of marriage, it was not a gift, and it was not inherited, unless it is addressed in a martial agreement. Comingling is certain to happen in most retirement plans if a spouse had funds in the plan before marriage.

Another common example of determining separate and community property is when a martial residence (along with the mortgage) is owned by one spouse before marriage. During the marriage the spouses pay the mortgage with community property and/or make improvements to the property with community property. The reduction in the mortgage debt and/or improvements can create claims between the community estate and the separate estate(s), and such claims can be complex.

Many spouses create or join entities such as LLC’s, partnerships or corporations, or were involved in such entities prior to marriage. Such entities create complex marital property issues no matter the size of the entity. It would be wise for anyone contemplating divorce to seek advice from a family law attorney before an entity is formed or before there are any changes made to existing entities.

Those planning to marry can avoid creating a community property estate by signing a premarital

agreement (often called a “prenuptial agreement” or “prenup”). These types of agreements, for example, can address alimony, spousal support, separate property, community property, and the division of community property in case of a divorce. During marriage, spouses can turn community property into separate property by signing a postmarital agreement (often called a “postnuptial agreement” or “postnup”).

Both types of agreements are presumed valid in the case of a divorce and usually are applicable on death.

Neither a premarital, or postmarital, agreement can address any issues regarding children: if so, the child-related provisions are not enforced as they are against public policy.

In the case of a divorce, a court cannot divide separate property, only the community property.

The origins of these laws date from 1841, and the mandate has been consistent for the courts to divide the community property in a manner that the judge deems ‘‘just and right,’’ not ’’50/50’’ or ’’equally,’’ as many people seem to think. However, if there is a premarital or postmarital agreement, such will have to be considered. Further, the rules are complex because each type of asset has its own set of rules. There are numerous other rules applicable to separate and community property that are too extensive to cover in this article. It is advisable to seek legal advice from a family law attorney for ultimate asset protection.

For more information, please visit KoonsFuller.com

320 Eagle Drive Denton TX (940) 442-6677 Koonsfuller.com

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 11

G

Guyer Football

Fills

Holes

by End of Spring Practices

By Steve Gamel

12 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

uyer quarterback Shawn Robinson may have some receivers to throw to after all.

The Wildcats concluded spring practices last month by filling in the blanks for one of their biggest positions of need. Gone are three wideouts that last season who gave Robinson – a junior-to-be dual-threat signal caller – an aerial attack few in Class 6A could stop.

But four more receivers have stepped up alongside lone returner J.T. Ashcraft, and like Robinson, could be playmakers for years to come.

“We weren’t quite sure what to think going into the spring, but as a group, I think this will be a very solid wide receiver core,” said Guyer head coach John Walsh.

The latest foursome includes sophomores-to-be Donovan Greenhoward and Colton Phillips, junior-to-be Thabo Mwaniki and senior-to-be Brandon Daniel.

Mwaniki and Daniel also will split time as defensive backs.

Walsh said it will be interesting to see how their big spring practices translate to the regular season, but this is a huge stepping stone for Guyer.

The Wildcats were blessed with the addition of Robinson, who moved in from Saginaw Chisholm Trail just prior to last season. He was an instant success, making dynamic plays right out of the gate, and now has practically every major college program in the country after him.

As a team, Guyer passed for 3,019 yards. Robinson accounted for 2,779 of those yards to go with his 1,416 rushing yards and 50 total touchdowns. He threw just five interceptions.

Those numbers were aided by the wideout trio of Alex Honey (Southern Methodist University), Adam Scott (Harvard University) and David Haynes.

All three of those guys are gone, leaving Ashcraft as the only experienced returner.

Ashcraft, a senior-to-be, averaged 17 yards per catch last year and was fourth on the team with 187 receiving yards and two scores.

That left Walsh with a ton of work to do coming into the season. The move to 6A last year after the Wildcats won two state titles in 4A means Guyer has to remain as balanced as possible. The team also must improve upon a defense that faced several big injuries last season, and as a result, underperformed.

The good news is Walsh feels his team is relatively healthy and further along than at this point last year.

“Shawn is going to make the younger guys around him even better,” Walsh said.

“We have to be smart about how some of those guys split time between offense and defense, but we believe we have found our wide receivers and our defense is better. We are going to be a tough out come November.”

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 13

Lantanaresident Lantanaresident 14 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Lantana Ladies League Introduces 2015-16 Board Members Joined by new co-treasurers Kristen Crane and Julie Steele and newsletter editor Erica Maxson, members of the 2015-16 Lantana Ladies League Board of Directors were inducted at a special dinner May 19 at Lantana Golf Club.

Leading the new board will be president Sunny Darden and vice president Stacy Sauer.

Tonya Walters will serve as secretary, Mary Beth Reinauer as membership chair, Jenae Hibbard and Heather Shimala as program co-chairs, Jennifer Peterson as historian, Germaine Volk and Piper Kleider as co-webmasters, and Staci Gibson as special interest lead.

The group will take June and July off and start the 2015-16 campaign with its first monthly meeting Aug. 18.

Lantana Property Values Up 17.5 Percent in Early Assessments The Denton County tax assessor/ collector’s office recently reported preliminary property tax values in Lantana increased 17.5 percent over 2014.

The community’s 2015 total assessed property value came in at nearly $1.2 billion compared to just above $1 billion last year.

Reasons cited for the increase included the construction of new homes and businesses in and around the community.

Richard Harned, controller for the Denton County Fresh Water Supply Districts, said official

totals will be available in the fall after decisions are made for those property owners filing appeals.

Denton County Storm Victims Eligible for Possible Federal Aid

Southern

May could receive federal assistance after Denton County was included in a list of eligible Texas

areas by the Federal Emergency Management 30-40

homes

and

15-20

businesses were reported to have suffered slight to moderate damage and several others with

major problems by Denton County Emergency Management officials.

Denton was one of 70 counties statewide to fall

under the declaration.

Affected

residents

and

business

County

communities

Flower Mound will hold special festivities to

record-breaking rain and flooding that occurred in

Approximately

Denton

including Copper Canyon, Double Oak and

Individuals and businesses affected by the

Agency.

Area Communities Set July 4 Celebrations

owners

celebrate Independence Day on July 4.

Copper Canyon will hold a parade at 10 a.m.

in front of the town hall. Participants are asked to arrive at 9:30. After the parade, hot dogs and drinks will be served in front of the building.

The Double Oak Volunteer Fire Department

will lead a July 4 parade and picnic at the Double Oak Town Hall.

The Flower Mound Independence Fest will take

place at Bakersfield Park. The day begins with the children’s parade at the Lewisville Independent

School District School Administration Building and concludes with fireworks at the park. In between, the band 38 Special will perform.

may apply for federal assistance online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 800-621FEMA (3362) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) for

people with hearing or speech impairments.

The toll-free numbers are available daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

County, Community Offices Closed on July 3 With the July 4 holiday falling on a Saturday

this year, Lantana District and all Denton County offices will be closed on Friday, July 3.

Regular business for both agencies will resume

on Monday, July 6.

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 15

16 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Lantanaresident

Lantanaresident

Lantanaresident

Advertisement Local Sponsored Content

Prepare for Summer with a

First-Aid Kit

By Rebecca D. Butler, M.D., FAAP

After a long stint of spring rain, we could not be more ready to get outside and enjoy the weather.

Are you prepared for cuts, scrapes, sunburns, insect bites, and rashes galore? You should be prepared to address the common ailments that accompany summertime fun, and a good firstaid kit is a great start. Put a kit together and keep it in your car for those impromptu minor summertime emergencies.

Here’s a good first-aid checklist borrowed primarily from Kathleen Berchelmann M.D. who recognizes that families would benefit from a “How-To” on first-aid kits located at healthchildren.org: • Pre-made first aid kit: Start by buying a pre-made kit. Find a large kit with a sturdy container with extra space to hold all the things you will add to it. Or, get a small duffel bag or backpack to hold your first-aid kit, and start by putting the pre-made kit in the bag.

• Water bottle: For cleaning out wounds and battling dehydration. Gatorade also is a good thing to add to your kit.

• Flashlight/headlamp • Baby wipes: Even if you do not have children in diapers, baby wipes are a good way to clean up spills and messes.

• Clean towel: Consider a highly-absorbent

• •

• • •

•

•

microfiber towel that can be stuffed into a small space.

Alcohol wipes: Good for cleaning instruments for reuse.

ACE bandage and pre-made finger splint: These two things will allow you to immobilize and secure injuries on your way to the doctor.

Small scissors and tweezers: Splinters, stickers, and ticks all require precision instruments.

Sunblock: This includes SPF 30+ sunblock and Chapstick.

Bug spray: The best protection comes from repellent that contains 30 percent DEET. Keep in mind that these should be reserved for those older than age 2 months. It is best to spray the repellent into your hands and then rub it onto your child’s face. Do not use a combination sunscreen with DEET as it may overexpose the child to DEET since sunscreens need to be reapplied often.

Benadryl: Benadryl probably is the most important over-the-counter medication to have in your first aid kit – it’s a first-line treatment for insect bites, hives, and other allergic reactions. If you have small children, make sure that you know the correct dosing.

EpiPen or Auvi-Q/ Prescription medication: If you have a family member with a history of severe allergic reactions, ask your physician for a prescription EpiPen or Auvi-Q. Keep it

Lantanaresident

•

• •

• •

in an outside pocket that is easily accessible.

Other frequently-used prescription medications also should be available in extra supply in your car first-aid kit.These typically include asthma and allergy medications.

Numbing spray/Ointment: Wound-numbing spray can be purchased over-the-counter at any pharmacy and can really save the day when a child is burned, sunburned, or has a painful cut or scrape. Your pre-made kit should have antibiotic ointment but adding a pain relief ointment (I like Calamoseptine) can make you a hero at the park.

Ibuprofen and Tylenol: Again, it is important that you know the correct dosing for your children.

Dramamine or other nausea medication: A car sick child can make a family outgoing miserable, so be prepared with medication to handle that car sick child.

Afrin nasal spray for nosebleeds: Afrin is a quick fix for nosebleeds.

Hydrocortisone ointment: This medication will treat almost anything that itches – insect bites, poison ivy, etc. If you stop the itch, the kids won’t scratch, and you reduce the risk of secondary infection.

Dr. Rebecca Butler is Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is proud to be a resident of Lantana and the owner of Lantana Pediatrics. For more information on Dr. Butler or to schedule an appointment, call 940-455-7200.

Rebecca D. Butler, M.D., FAAP

74 McMakin Road Suite 100 Bartonville, TX 76226 www.LanatanaPediatrics.com

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 17

guyer Spring

Sports Roundup

By Steve Gamel

The Team Won 19 games in 2015, and from

jump of 22-9 1/2 inches, but qualified for state

the season’s very first pitch, looked like a group

as a wild card based on where his jump ranked

that could make a deep playoff run with a roster

The Wildcats stole a 4-2 win in Game 1

against competitors from the remaining three

loaded with senior leadership.

regional meets.

behind the arm of sophomore Connor Herriage,

The Lady Wildcats delivered on that deep playoff run, but it just as easily could have been longer.

Guyer (19-9) had its season come to an abrupt halt last month against Lewisville in a best-of-three Class 6A Region I quarterfinal.

After winning Game 1, the Lady Wildcats lost the next two games to Lewisville, which is just two seasons removed from winning its first Class 5A state crown.

So just how tightly-contested was this series?

Both teams combined for five runs – the first two games ended in 1-0 finals – and neither was able to muster more than four hits in any one game of the series. Lewisville ace Maribeth Gorsuch, a junior and Louisiana State University pledge, and Guyer’s Shayne Starkey, a West Texas A&M University signee, both pitched lights out in the circle.

The series marked the second-straight season in which the Lady Wildcats lost in the third round. In 2014, Guyer was swept by Aledo. The Lady Wildctats are sure to come back better than ever next season under the direction of longtime coach Keith Medford, but must first replace standout seniors like Starkey, Maddie Green and Hannah Hodapp.

Toy Places Fifth in Long Jump

In his first appearance at the Class 6A state

track and field meet, long jumper Ethan Toy finished fifth with a leap of 22 feet, 10 3/4 inches – just three inches out of fourth place.

Toy had six attempts, but scratched four times.

Toy, a junior, finished third at the Region I meet in Arlington two weeks earlier with a 18 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

He won both the District 5-6A and area meet with jumps of 23-5 and 23 1/2 inches, respectively.

Guyer Baseball Suffers FirstRound Loss After winning five of its last six regular-

to Flower Mound Marcus last month.

but Marcus outscored Guyer 24-10 over the next two games – including a 17-8 loss in Game 2 that evened the series.

Guyer finished its first season in the new Class 6A with a record of 13-10 and made the postseason for a third-straight season. Since making the playoffs for the first time in 2009,

season games to finish third in District 5-6A,

Guyer has missed the postseason once (2012)

the Guyer baseball team couldn’t keep its

in those six seasons. The Wildcats’ deepest run

momentum going in a first-round playoff loss

was three rounds.

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 19

Briarwood

By Steve Gamel

T

Raising Tomorrow

here likely isn’t a day that goes by where Phil Geleske doesn’t learn something new.

While sitting with a few of his fellow pastors recently, Geleske, who has doubled as the executive director for Briarwood Retreat Center for the past 20 years, found himself apologizing for what he felt Briarwood may be lacking as a camp.

“We don’t have a beautiful lake or pretty mountains to climb, things that people associate with camp. I said we aren’t what you call a destination camp,” Geleske said. “That’s when he (a pastor) said, ‘I disagree. You are a destination. The relationship is the destination.’

“I remember thinking, wow. That’s so true.

We always say in the church that the church isn’t the building, it’s the people. It’s the same with this camp.”

So what is Briarwood?

Briarwood is a 70-acre wooded facility tucked away off Copper Canyon Road in Copper Canyon.

It’s primarily undeveloped, so campers and area retreat enthusiasts have a sense that they are out in the middle of nowhere with its large unspoiled areas. The developed areas still are vastly rustic and include two large activity fields, miles upon miles of hiking trails, and 27 buildings. It can serve 160 guests in a wide variety of housing units.

20 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Leaders for

And yes, it is church camp. Originally owned by the greater Presbyterian church, Briarwood was purchased by the Lutheran church in 1995. Its congregation has been committed to its growth ever since.

“Church camp brought faith to life for me when I was younger. As a pastor, I always wanted to make certain that every child would have the opportunity for that same experience,” said Geleske, who has been pastor at Faith Lutheran Church since 1990. “I wanted to pass that experience on.”

That’s where things really get interesting at Briarwood. Pastors like Geleske see the facility as more than just a church camp. Instead, it’s a conduit, if you will, to develop leaders of tomorrow in North Texas.

They do this in a number of ways. For starters, Briarwood is accredited by the American Camp Association and offers a range of summer camp programs for pre-kindergarten to school-age children. The community-based activities help develop a child’s leadership, decision-making and social interaction skills.

When Geleske first started taking kids to camps in the early stages of his faith career, most were in Kerrville and La Grange. Briarwood offers a more localized approach. Kids can go to camp, have fun, and still feel like they are miles away from home.

“I think the statistic states about 70 percent of

all ordained pastors in the Lutheran church had a positive experience with outdoor ministry when they were younger,” Geleske said. “So we figured, let’s get more intentional with this. The world is changing so much, so we feel the natural response is to raise up leaders, focus on leader development and do our ministry in new ways. We use Briarwood to make that happen.”

Approximately 75-80 kids attend Briarwood each week during the summer. That’s about 800 kids per summer. That doesn’t include year-round activities designed for older children and counselors.

The camps, and how they are structured, are broken down by age. The Young’ns program runs for a half-week and is designed to be an introductory experience to camp. Yearlings begin to look at faith a little deeper while expressing themselves through singing, worship and bible study. They also experience small doses of decision-making tasks.

From there, the programs increase in focus and are designed for campers looking for larger challenges, leadership and opportunities to build on their faith.

All activities are spiritually-based, but you don’t have to be Lutheran to attend.

“It’s not invasive in any way,” Geleske said. “We don’t want to push these kids. We just want them to know they are loved and they can come here to have fun and be involved.”

Speaking of being more intentional, the Lutheran

congregation helped raise $3 million to spur even more growth at Briarwood. Ten percent of those funds went to the sister companion synod in Sierra Leon. The rest went toward a new leadership facility at Briarwood.

The new facility, which opened in January, provides even more visibility and awareness for Briarwood. It is a 7,000-square-foot facility with offices for the bishop and Briarwood staff. There also are conference rooms, etc. to help further the development of staff and summer counselors, all of which are Internet connected.

“We can webcast our programs so that other churches in the area can tune in rather than drive here,” Geleske said. “It’s all about finding new ways to make use of our knowledge. What’s powerful to me, is that even when we have struggled financially, we were always impacting kids. These kids move on and become counselors and pastors. They do mission work.”

Geleske joked that he’s “getting up there in age” and knows that he’s closer than he thinks to retirement. Even when that day comes, he will rest easy that Briarwood – and its children – are in good hands.

“When you see your work translated through another person, that’s what it’s all about,” Geleske added. “That’s why I do what I do. Preparing the next generation has become so rewarding.”

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 21

22 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

elines

he Sid ou On T

E R O M Y T EN L P S ’ E OM R R E F H E T M A C T A H T E R E H W

See Y

amel

By Steve G

I

have never been a huge fan of the National Football League Draft – watching it from start to finish, that is.

There, I said it. Sorry to have offended anyone, but let’s be real shall we? I mean, how many of you actually watch the draft – from the coveted first pick all the way to Mr. Irrelevant – all the way through?

I’m willing to bet there are more of you who don’t than there are who completely disagree with me.

My brother recorded the entire draft, which was held last month in Chicago, just so he wouldn’t miss a second of it. While I was over it by Round 4, he was telling me all about Round 7 at dinner.

Just like our wives, I was unimpressed.

For me, following the draft in that much detail

is fun only to a certain point. I love college football, but I don’t follow it deep enough to know everyone who remains after rounds 3 or 4. And if I do know

who they are, there’s not enough excitement to keep me interested.

Not to mention, even the highest of draft picks is a total crapshoot.

Just give me Cliff ’s Notes, and I’ll be fine.

This year, I must admit, was drastically different.

I kept a watchful eye because of three Denton-area hopefuls who were looking to find themselves a new home.

And they did.

Former Denton Ryan standout Mario Edwards Jr., who had a stellar career at Florida State University and helped the Seminoles capture the 2014 Bowl Championship Series National Championship, was the 35th overall pick by the Oakland Raiders. Fellow Ryan alum Bud Sasser of the University of Missouri was the last to go off the board in the sixth round to the St. Louis Rams.

In between was former Lake Dallas stud Daryl Williams. Williams, who attended the University of

Oklahoma, went to the Carolina Panthers with the 102nd pick (4th round).

I only saw Edwards and Sasser play a handful of times when they were both in high school, but they held a special enough place in my sports-watching heart to warrant watching the draft to see where they ended up. Just like any of their friends, family and former coaches, I was excited to see them get drafted.

It happens every year, when kids sign to play in college. But a very small percentage of those same players have the chance to continue their careers as professionals. So I was willing to put the time in to watch this year’s draft.

I remember when Edwards was drafted. I was getting ready for a baseball game and was about to shut off the television when I decided to wait to see the next pick. That’s when Oakland chose the star defensive end. Over the course of the next day, it was fun to see Williams and Sasser come off the board, too.

For me, seeing guys like that succeed is the payoff. Last year, I watched as former Flower Mound Marcus basketball star Marcus Smart was drafted by the Boston Celtics. Now, I get to see three former football standouts move on.

And the good news is, there’s plenty more where that came from.

Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 23

Real Estate

Getting Ready to Sell

15

To Do’s

That are Simple

Low c

o

s

t

Smart!

A

By Mark Barnes

ll too often a homeowner rushes to get a sign in the yard, a lockbox on the door and have the home listed on the Multiple Listing Service, believing that the first person who walks in falls in love with it and makes an incredible offer. There are smiles and handshakes all around.

Happens all the time, right?

Well, maybe. But if that seller hasn’t invested any time in getting the home READY to sell, the chances of receiving an offer are significantly diminished, and the eventual offer could be well below market value. But getting ready doesn’t have

24 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

to take a lot of time, nor does it have to take a lot of cash. Usually some elbow grease, a small budget and some rational thinking will get the job done.

Before we get to the list of things to do, let’s start by planting two very important thoughts.

The first one has to do with a seller not making changes because it’s THEIR house, and they like it the way it is. That’s not the best recipe for a successful sale. The best rule of thumb is to put out of your mind that this is YOUR house.

Think of it as the next owner’s house, you are just taking care of it until the contract closes. So, what would the next owner want to see and experience in your home?

The second thought is to emulate what builders do to showcase their homes to attract and please prospective buyers. No, you don’t need designer furnishings and decorations. But go into any model home, and consider what you see. The floors always are swept clean, the carpets are vacuumed, the kitchen and baths spotless, windows are sparkling, all of the light bulbs work, and there isn’t any clutter. If the condition of your home for sale simply captured all of the above, your invested cost is pretty much zero.

Here are the 15 items that I have found are the easiest and cheapest to do, and still have GREAT impact. ALL of these can be done by you…contractors and specialists are not necessarily needed. t Apply fertilizer front and back. Get a good, quick green up of the lawn, it’s the first thing buyers see when they arrive. Cost: $40. t Plant color in the front garden beds, get rid of any weeds and encroaching grasses.

Pick up even just a couple of flats of simple annuals. Cost: $50. t Trim overgrown bushes and low hanging tree branches. Cost: $0. t Add a new coat of paint or stain to the front door. Cost: $20. t New, clean welcome mat for the front door.

Cost: $20. t Replace nonworking or dim light bulbs inside and out. Cost: $50.

t Use your builder’s touch-up paint kit to solve for wall scratches, chips and nicks on corners, baseboards, etc. Cost: $0. t Take down any heavy window treatments that hide a good view or make a room too dark, and caulk and paint where you remove rods. Cost for caulk and paint: $20. t Apply a fresh coat of paint on all trim and molds throughout the house. Cost: $80. t Except for children’s bedrooms, paint any other room to a soft neutral color. Sand or tan tones work best, never white. Assume you have six rooms to do, with two gallons of paint per room. Cost: $300. t Cut your yard every third day, and cut on the diagonal. Cost for fuel: $20. t Remove excess furniture, odd pieces, clutter in closets and the garage, and assume three months of storage. Cost: $300. t Remove 90 percent of what you have on kitchen and bath counters and put that stuff in cupboards and drawers. Cost: $0. t Rent a quality steam cleaner and shampoo your carpets. Spot treat stain areas.

Cost: $100. t Vacuum the main areas on the first level every morning, do the upstairs every other day. Cost: $0.

Total invested so far…$1,000. Considering that the difference could mean a faster sale and for far more money, it’s well worth the investment. And rest assured, your home will now look significantly better than other competing listings on the market.

So, before you list your home for sale: Take the time, make the investment, and do the work to maximize your return!

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Adkins

Field Day

FUN RUN Adkins Elementary School’s first ever Field Day/ Fun Run was a roaring success! Adkins Elementary PTA raised $20, 315.40!

The PTA worked with Mr. Birdwell, our PE teacher, to put together a full day of fun activities. So many families came to cheer on their kiddos in the Fun Run, and danced to the music from the D.J. who kept everyone’s spirits high.

"Healthy competition was alive and well through fun games such as tug of war and obstacle courses, as our wonderful parent volunteers led games and activities throughout the day. Over and over again I heard kids saying, “This is the best day ever!” said Principal Emily McLarty.

Photos Continued on Page 48

Several sponsors contributed generously to the event, and we are so grateful for their consistent support and involvement in our school. It was a day full of happy, healthy kids and supportive parent and community involvement…Thank you!!

Lantanaresident

Thank you to Southern Comfort Mechanical A/C & Heating, Kroger of Lantana, Pizza Hut, Rapid Med, Country Lakes Dental, Guidance Preparatory Academy, Spring Valley Construction, Speedway Events, Bahama Buck's, and Argyle Feed Store!

Your support led to a successful day!

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 29

New Kroger Marketplace

Is a Shopper’s Dream

By Mark Miller

At 120,000 square feet, it is twice the size of its traditional sister facilities.

With more than 60 shopping aisles and featuring every type of food, beverage, and health and wellness item imaginable plus clothing, home goods, technology, small appliances, even a jewelry shop, there may be no need to stop anywhere beyond the newest Kroger Marketplace.

L

ocated in the Bartonville Town Center across FM 407 from Lantana, the

facility opened May 22 with special ceremonies.

Included in the festivities were the Argyle High School Drum Line and E.P. Rayzor Elementary School Choir which sang the

national anthem.

It is the anchor for a shopping center that

eventually will feature additional businesses including Lantana Eyecare, Supercuts, Romney

Pediatric Dentistry, Tokyo Samurai, Terry’s

Donuts, The Tutoring Center, Legacy News and Dickie’s Bar-B-Que.

“We knew this would be a great place to

locate with the growth that’s taken place in the 30 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

area,” said Katie Nock, who manages Kroger’s area community outreach. “It’s projected to be astronomical in coming years.”

The Bartonville/Lantana facility is the 10th marketplace concept in North Texas. It employs about 300 people under store manager Keith Gaitlin and took about 17 months to complete from its December 2003 ground breaking.

“We want this to be the one-stop shop where you choose to do your shopping,” Nock said.

Open daily from 6 a.m. until 1 a.m., the store is so big its perimeter takes up a quarter of a mile. To help keep customers from having to wait long to pay for their selections, more than

20 check-out lanes are available, 19 speciallyequipped to open new lanes as needed.

Other inside amenities include a wine bar

to sample one of the 1,500 available choices, a New York-style cheese shop, pet center, open-air

seafood market, and a Starbucks coffee shop.

Outside is a Kroger Fuel Center.

Thanks in part to its ownership of FTD,

Kroger is the world’s largest florist. It also is in the jewelry business after purchasing Fred Meyer Jewelers, third largest in the nation, with

one of its 325 locations inside the Lantana/ Bartonville facility.

“Lantana is extremely excited because we are

here,” Nock said. “They see it as their store.”

Lantanaresident JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 31

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By Melissa Pittilo Adkins Elementary School Counselor

A

nyone who has ever tried to gain and keep the attention of a group of young children knows it can be a harrowing experience – easily equated to herding cats or nailing Jell-O to the wall. That is, unless you’re a Ninja Turtle, Super Hero, or Staff Sergeant Johnnie Yellock II.

From the moment he entered Adkins Elementary School on Armed Forces Day, all eyes were upon him. Students, dressed in red, white and blue, lined the main hall and waved American flags as “SSgt. Johnnie” smiled and high-fived his way to the cafeteria. Once there, he was greeted by the rest of the school’s students and staff. As always, his parents, sister, and dog accompanied him to share in a celebration honoring this true hero.

Even more impressive than Johnnie’s incredible reception was the fact he was able to stand on the stage, without assistance, to bask in the joy of 300 mesmerized kids. Standing straight and tall, he needed only two words to quiet the large crowd, “Eyes Front!” A hush fell over the room, everyone faced forward, and teachers sat amazed at the ease with which he elicited total respect and compliance from so many children.

While that, in itself, is an amazing feat, it does not even begin to compare to SSgt. Yellock’s accomplishments as a U.S. Air Force combat controller. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Combat Action Medal, and Purple Heart.

While serving his second deployment in 2011, an Improvised Explosive Device detonated beneath SSgt. Yellock’s armored vehicle. He suffered critical injuries to his feet, ankles, and legs. Miraculously, he applied tourniquets to his own legs and remained conscious, even providing landing zone guidance to MEDEVAC so that he and his team could be rescued.

After undergoing 30 intense surgeries, Staff Sgt. Yellock medically retired in 2013. However, his service goes on. He is a veteran liaison for HelpingaHero. org, which builds specially-adapted homes for soldiers wounded in the war. He also champions the Mark Forester Foundation which was established in

honor of his best friend who was killed in action in Afghanistan.

Through our connection with Lantana’s Mission Moms founder and president Kathryn Flores, Adkins learned that HelpingaHero.org would be completing a house for SSgt. Yellock in Lantana’s Bandera neighborhood in July. Therefore, our celebration on Armed Forces Day not only honored SSgt. Yellock for his service and sacrifice, but also served as an opportunity to welcome him to our community.

The Adkins Aviator Choir led with “The Star Spangled Banner,” but it was the group’s second performance that set the tone for the ceremony.

“You Are Our Heroes” poses the question many of us, even adults, struggle to answer: “What can you say to a hero?” The choir sang out the answer in the chorus:

We can say thank you!

Oh, we can say thank you!

THANK YOU!

SSgt. Yellock’s sister, with tears in her eyes, rose to stand beside her brother – the hero. In that moment, she was able to demonstrate what we were all thinking and feeling: We are grateful for this time with you and will stand by you.

Next, Mrs. McGee introduced fourth grader

Alysa Wysocki whose own father still serves in Afghanistan. She presented SSgt. Yellock with a piece of art she made to display in his new home. In addition, Johnnie received two books full of drawings and letters written by Adkins’ students.

Finally, SSgt. Yellock graciously answered student prepared questions. Some were met with humor.

For instance, one student asked, “What was it like at night in Afghanistan?” SSgt. Yellock, without missing a beat, a sly smile shining, answered, “Dark.”

However, it was his sincere and thoughtful answers that spoke most to the crowd. When asked if he was ever scared and what he focused on to get through the hard days of being at war, he credited God and his family. He explained, “Yes, I was scared.

It’s okay to be scared. Sometimes being scared is what keeps you safe. It leads you away from danger, but I relied on my faith and thought of my family in those times.”

With a final lesson on the proper way to salute and stand for the pledge, SSgt. Yellock closed the ceremony by leading “The Pledge of Allegiance.”

Three hundred smiling students filed out like tiny soldiers, marching back to class with a newfound pride in service and patriotism.

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 33

Gardening

Low

Maintenance Plants Can Shine in the

Summer Heat

H

ere they come...Every calendar year they roll around – June, July and August – the hottest months of the year in DFW with the thermometer often breaking 100 degrees.

Although we have received a lot of rain this year gardening can still be rough. Summers are hot but don’t lose hope. If you’re tired of losing plants from the heat and paying those high water bills then continue reading.

We’ve listed some low-maintenance annuals and perennials that can survive and even thrive with our hot temperatures, scorching sun, and terrible soil.

Get on board with a lower maintenance, more water cautious style of color for your bed areas by saying hello to these “Beat the Heat Crops” of 2015: »» »» »» »»

Victoria Blue Salvia Irene Lantana Greggi White Salvia

»» Little Business Day Lilies »» Blue Salvia »» Coneflower

34 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

So just because the lake is full doesn’t mean we can’t still be conservative and save some money this season.

Questions & Answers:

Q: We planted a bunch of summer color early and it is all starting to yellow and drop their blooms.

What should we do?

A. With all the rain we have been getting this is very common right now. Watering is vital for establishing newly-planted trees and shrubs, however, too much water forces oxygen out of the soil around the roots and can lead to death of the flowers, shrubs and trees. A good indication of too much water is the yellowing of the foliage that develops first on the inner leaves then moves towards the outer. Of course all plantings are different but with the amount of moisture in our soils right now this is what we are seeing the most. The best way to combat this is to pull-up if possible the plantings and add soil to elevate them. Mix in some gravel or something similar if the soil is really heavy, this will help the soil drain more efficiently.

Q: What’s the best way to keep this grass from getting into and spreading all over our flowerbeds?

A. It’s always a challenge to keep your turf and bed areas separate while keeping everything looking as natural as possible. We always recommend putting in a sufficient border that will enhance the look of the bed, retain the soil and mulch at the same

time as keeping grass out. Digging into the ground about four inches and pouring some concrete at least six inches front to back then setting some type of stone into the mix is the most permanent way to accomplish this. There are all types of stone variations, color styles and ways to lay it so that almost everyone should have an option that will work for them and be able to achieve the goal of having a lower maintenance bed space.

Q: What should our sprinklers be set at this time of year?

A.-With all the rain and as saturated as our ground is it really depends on the layout of the lot.

Ground that all is on the downhill side is going to take a lot longer to dry out requiring a lot less sprinkler water at this time while ground that lays on a steady grade will dry out at a lot faster rate even with the amount of clay we have in our soils helping to retain the moisture. If you are unable to do a moisture reading on your property the best thing would be to call an irrigation professional so you can really see how wet it is sub-surface and establish a watering schedule with their guidance.

By PJ Kratohvil, Complete Exterior Solutions, 214-735-1364

FEATURED ARTICLE Local Sponsored Content

The statistics to back that up are mind-boggling,

and certainly worth mentioning. We will get to

Life’s Work, in The Name of

those in a minute. But first, it’s worth discussing the school’s backstory – which is just as compelling.

Dr. Rodney Haire, the school’s founder and

leader, started Liberty Christian in 1983 without

a shred of experience in private school education, and five students – the majority of whom were

and a

his own children.

Haire owned a textile company in Dallas for

18 years and, as a University of Texas grad, never

went to a private school himself. But he and his wife, Judy, believed in strong Christian values, and

wanted to provide a school that could honor those values while at the same time instilling a focus on

By Steve Gamel

education.

In a lot of ways, there wasn’t that one school

that was able to provide one without sacrificing the other.

I

f you were to walk the halls at Liberty Christian School, you might catch a glimpse of an honors-student quarterback getting ready for choir practice or a cheerleader eagerly running to her engineering class.

Sprinkled in are a slew of younger children looking up with innocent smiles, wanting to be just like them.

It’s that sort of environment that has made Liberty Christian – an award-winning college preparatory private school in Argyle – an obvious choice for parents who want more for their children’s education.

The message: raise godly kids in an environment where academics and athletics are second to none.

36 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

For two years, Haire – who was in his late

“There is something tangible when you walk on campus,” said Michelle Simms, Liberty Christian’s director of marketing and communications. “There is the spirit of the Lord, and a mutual respect between students and teachers. I had heard of Liberty when I lived in California. Now that my children are here, it’s amazing to be a part of.

“We believe God’s plan is the best, and these kids are neatly crafted. Every child is unique, and

they won’t be defined just as an athlete, actor or computer whiz. They can express many talents.”

In an age where perhaps thousands of schools

across the country have struggled to find an identity, Liberty offers top-flight education from preschool through high school, and has had no problem defining itself.

“I think the misconception is that we

are just a high school,” Simms said.

“We are so much more than that.”

30s at the time – ran his textile company while

working through the process of opening Liberty Christian. He was so dedicated to obtain the

proper accreditations for the school, he went back

to school himself to earn both his master’s and doctorate degrees.

“I remember every day I’d work from 6 a.m. to

noon, eat lunch in my car, then go to the office,” Haire said. “At the time I figured I’d stay for a

couple of years, hire the right people, then they would hire someone to replace me. But it became a

major part of my life. We didn’t think we had to give up a Christian mindset in order to also have strong

academics. We knew what we wanted, and we set out to prove it.”

Simms agreed.

“Dr. Haire always said he wanted

to hire people that were smarter

than he is,” Simms laughed. “He’s

such a down-to-earth guy and

he wasn’t afraid to ask people if he was doing

include Boston College, Dartmouth, Duke, Rice,

so to speak, and have their feet firmly planted on

he went to the Jesuits and the St. Mark’s and

U.S. Air Force Academy.

do, they can do. We’ve won state in band four years

things right. One of the first things he did was

he asked them what he should do. What were

Harvard, Pepperdine, Stanford, Vanderbilt and the The school offers 44 advanced placement and

some of their successes and failures? He knew

dual credit courses beginning in seventh grade

to translate it.”

college preparation and entrance. Annually, the

what he wanted for these kids, and he was able

The original campus was in Denton, across

from where the University of North Texas’ Apogee

Stadium now sits. By the end of the first school year,

and a team of academic advisors to assist with

school puts on a college fair with approximately 150 colleges represented.

schools include Trinity Christian Addison and Plano Prestonwood.

To help spur more growth and variety of

programs, the campus was moved 10 years ago

there to help grow young kids with good values.”

And there’s still room for more growth.

If you haven’t been by recently, there is plenty

school officials to migrate the middle school classes

you don’t get second chances,” Simms said. “We

pre-kindergarten through high school. Similar

win games in order to keep their jobs. They are

same out there in the business world, and sometimes

enrollment for all grades is 1,323. Liberty Christian Metroplex, but is one of only a few that handles

had nine kids in the band. Coaches don’t have to

of construction going on. The plan is to complete

doesn’t turn in their homework, it’s a zero. It’s the

remains among the smaller private schools in the

in a row now, but seven or eight years ago, we only

“We have a rigorous curriculum. If a student

Liberty Christian had 194 students.

Fast forward all these years later and the total

the ground,” Haire said. “Whatever they want to

prepare them as much as possible for the outside

world, including Bible classes where they discuss

a new high school by January. That would allow – which currently are being held in portables – into the existing high school classrooms.

Liberty Christian also is adding six classrooms for

different religions and world views, business classes

the lower school and preschool to share, including a

and other life-skill classes such as marketing and

Liberty Christian to add even more opportunities

where they learn to interview and create a resume, finance or web design.”

Then there is the extra-curricular realm, which

gym and lunchroom. All of these changes will allow for student development.

“I keep thinking that one day I will turn this

to Argyle.

Liberty always has seemed to dominate.

all over to someone younger, but these kids truly

said of the move from Denton to Argyle. “We were

largest private school organization in the nation,

this has simply been my life.”

more kids and add more programs. Sometimes, you

Schools (TAPPS). Despite being one of the smaller

“A lot of that was in response to growth,” Simms

land-locked, so the move allowed us to bring in

just need more numbers to be able to offer those niche classes.”

Some of the more rare clubs and programs

offered to students include a language course in Mandarin Chinese, the Solar Car Club and Digital

Athletically, Liberty Christian competes in the

the Texas Association of Private and Parochial

schools in the largest 5A division, Liberty has a row from points earned in academics, fine arts and athletics.

This school year alone, Liberty won state titles in

girls basketball, academics/speech, band, art, cheer,

in Australia.

because the students compete in multiple sports, so

The Class of 2014 was

awarded $7.7 million in scholarships, percent attend

of

and

graduates

colleges

universities.

99

and

Some

of the major ones

It’s a winning formula, and a life’s work that was

well worth the wait.

won the overall state championship three years in

Media Productions. The Solar Car team soon will be competing in the World Solar Car Challenge

energize me,” Haire said. “I’m an old man now, but

1301 US-377, Argyle, TX 76226 (940) 294-2000 | www.libertychristian.com

and girls and boys track. Most of that success is they are staying active year-round.

“It’s a wonderful

feeling to see these kids find

their

lanes,

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 37

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Lantanaresident Lantanaresident JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 39

Lantanaresident 40 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Counseling Corner

Positioning Parents: By Jessica Burrows

The

S

l

W

ell it is here again, that special time of year when the kids are out of school and life as you know it is thrown into crazy mode due to the shift in routine and schedule.

As the temperature begins to rise, remember that summer is a great time to re-create the bond with your child or teen that may have been lost during the chaos of the school year. It is as easy as the word

o

w

d

o

is they feel so alone during the summer months

and having their parents’ attention is extremely important to them.

Organize and plan ahead. Teenagers love to know

what they will be expected to do with their spare time

during the break. Oftentimes teenagers and children

struggle with the shift in their schedule and really

crave the routine they had during the school year.

You can help them by sitting down and planning

out their summer schedule together. It will pay off Listen. Summer is a great time to sit out on the patio on a hot summer evening and just talk. Don’t give advice or do most of the talking but instead be present as your child or teen opens up about their lives and their personal experiences. One of the biggest complaints I hear by the teens I work with

huge dividends by giving them some control over

their summer and feeling the comfort of knowing there is a routine.

Visit a new place. Most teenagers love the thrill

and excitement of going to a place they have never been before. It doesn’t have to be an expensive

trip or even an overnight stay that is far away.

w

n

Ask your teen to tell you some places they have never been before in the area and then take them there.

Encourage. Encourage your child or teen by giving them a dose of positivity daily. Children and teens grow and thrive in an environment that fosters creativity and positivity. Remember that your child or teen will need extra support from you during the summer months.

Jessica Burrows is a Licensed Professional Counselor who currently specializes in teens and young adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and self-injury. She is the owner of NextGen Counseling, PLLC located in Flower Mound.

For more information regarding the services she or her associates may provide for you or your loved one please call 940-228-2171 or visit the nextgencounseling.org web site.

Lantanaresident JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 41

S

Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental at:

countrylakesdental.com.

Responding to

Dental Trauma

ummer break is here, and I know that typically means putting the brain on idle and avoiding any extra information that diverts from poolside lounging, late mornings, and vacation planning. However, I would like to offer a little extra, last-minute trivia with an uncommonly known fact: Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body.

victim from hazardous surroundings. Any serious

In fact, it has been said that enamel

broken or out of the mouth, place it in a liquid

hardest substances on earth. However,

way to the dental office, but do not place it in

concussion, excessive bleeding or vomiting, or

major injuries require immediate emergency medical attention.

When dealing with dental trauma involving

teeth, gums, and lips, it is important to see your dentist right away, at least within one hour, to allow your dentist to treat the situation and

help prevent the loss of a tooth. If a tooth is

is second only to diamonds as the

such as milk or saline for preservation on the

my experience has found that there may

plain water to avoid disruption of cells that may

be certain materials that outmatch enamel,

namely those that compose hockey pucks,

pool decks, playground pavement, little

sister’s elbows, various sporting equipment,

and the infamous bottle cap. Regardless,

should your or your child’s enamel encounter

such adversaries, it is important to know how

to handle situations of dental trauma.

42 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

medical conditions such as loss of consciousness,

allow its reattachment. Control any bleeding of

the oral tissues with pressure using clean gauze or paper towels.

Of course, preventative methods such as

using your teeth appropriately, playing safely, and wearing athletic mouth guards are ideal to

avoid dental trauma. Otherwise, always keep

Remember, when initially responding to

your dentist’s emergency contact handy, don’t

paramount. Keep the situation under control by

the situation. Let’s avoid summer “breaks”

any kind of dental trauma, ensuring safety is

panic, and trust your dentist to help resolve

remaining calm and removing the traumatized

and happy smiling!

Lantanaresident JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 43

Upscale Home

interest to powder rooms. Using a piece of furniture

Make Your

Powder Room

Rave

Something Visitors

About

By Paula Kratohvil, Owner Complete Interior Solutions 972-436-9083

P

owering up your powder room will make a good first impression with guests. Go big in this small room to make it the jewel box of your home.

Who doesn’t comment on a spectacular powder room when they visit friends or family? This is the bathroom to go lavish on because it’s small. Plus it doesn’t have to be practical for everyday showering, storage and hanging of damp bath towels. It doesn’t get used much, and it’s the room that almost all your guests eventually see. So why not make it dramatic and bold? A perfect place to bring “go big or go home” to visual life!

Paint the walls in bold colors and use attentiongetting finishes, such as shiny lacquer or faux marble. Or use beautiful wallpaper. If you have not looked at the variety of options in wallpaper

44 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

recently it’s time to seriously check out the unique and interesting patterns that would bring “over the top” interest to any area.

Use sinks and faucets that are unusual either because of their shape or material, such as glass, marble, granite or metal. There are some of the most vibrant colors in glass sinks and a variety of interesting shapes are available that would create an incredible room.

Consider sinks that are elevated above the vanity rather that set in. I would suggest leaving the water valves turned less than fully open as some of the raised and shaped bowls can have a tendency of splatter otherwise.

Vanities have “come a long way baby.”Transitional cabinets with simple lines, under mount lighting, hardware options and other unique features bring

as the vanity, maybe even an antique dressing table or bureau always is an option.

No plain unframed, rectangular mirrors for a

dazzling powder room. Think elaborate frames, interesting shapes and unusual sizes. And for the lighting, also select something special. Now is not

the time to get lazy or go simple. With so many lighting options from bar lights and pendants to side sconces, be sure to check out all your options.

For countertops, think unique surfaces such as

glass, recycled glass, marble, metal, concrete or select

unique tile that will grab your visitors’ attention.

Don’t just tile the floor or countertops. Think about

tiling the walls halfway or even all the way to the ceiling. Because most powder rooms are small, you

can afford to go expensive on the materials you

select, and sometimes you can pick up remnants for a fraction of their original cost.

You can use the more expensive pieces to create

so many different looks in the wall. Why not include

a tiled frame for the mirror or beautiful footprint of the sink area?

Be bold when you plan

your

powder

room

look.

Redecorate it to become a

room with “wow” potential.

Power up your powder room.

Lantanaresident JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 45

Lantana-Based Group helping

Orphan

ChildreN in Iraq

By Mark Miller

S

IV

IN

G

M AG A Z

INE

’S

R’S O IT ICK D E P

L

A

IE

NT

LANTAN

itting in his office in what used to be the formal dining room of his Lantana home, Tom Shiflet recently received a call nearly 6,000 miles away in Iraq. Members of that country’s army had come upon a refugee camp filled with 200 young children and 40 grandmothers, all who remained from an attack of the terrorist group known as ISIS.

2015

With their older males shot and killed and age 10-40 females taken as sex slaves, they were in desperate need of food. Hopefully Shiflet could provide some help.

Fortunately, the answer was yes since Shiflet’s good friend Steve Nabil was just about an hour away.

After quickly assessing the situation, Nabil and his team of volunteers brought a 30-day supply courtesy of an organization Shiflet spearheaded last year.

The Great Need is a non-profit organization that seeks an end to a growing world orphan crisis. It officially launched in March 2014 with three other founding members – Shiflet’s brother Rob and two colleagues at Liberty Christian School – campus pastor and fellow Lantana resident Chris Searcy and upper school principal David Martin.

“Our main thrust is helping orphans wherever that may be and to find people who have that same heart to do that mission,” said Shiflet, Liberty Christian’s director of technology. “Our scope is pretty narrow.

Though our IRS designation says we can work with orphans and other children in need, we try to focus on orphans.”

The idea for The Great Need came in December 2013 after Shiflet and wife Carrie had spent five years seeking to adopt a child from Honduras. It was an attempt that proved frustrating yet eye opening.

“I don’t think you can really learn what’s 46 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

happening with the 200 million orphans in the world without your heart being moved to do something,” he said. “It took a while and we dropped out of the Honduras program last summer and got into the Texas adoption system. We’re hoping this summer that will be completed to adopt one or two from that. We wanted our adopted children to be close in age to our (8-year-old) son James. There’s a lot of kids ages 5 to 9.

“For me it was a sudden thing. I just felt God calling me to do something. So we said ‘let’s go.

We’ve seen and learned and have all the facts about how this works so let’s do something.’ “ Shiflet admits the first six months of The Great

With their older males shot and killed and age 1040 females taken as sex slaves, they were in desperate need of food.

Need clearly was a case of on-the-job training.

“I didn’t know a lot and we were trying to feel our way through it trying to raise funds and trying to do all of this based largely on theory,” he said.

RE

CI

P

“This is the theory of how we’re going to attack it and everyone thought it was a great theory but they don’t want to donate.

“When we first started laying out our plans, Central America was where it seemed to make the most sense. I speak Spanish fluently. I’ve been to Guatemala, Honduras and Panama and El Salvador and all through that region. I had a lot of contacts down there so it made the most sense. But every door we tried knocking on we got slapped in the face.”

Enter Nabil, who grew up in Iraq and moved to the U.S. at age 16 to attend school. He primarily lived in the Phoenix area for the past 15 years, initially meeting Shiflet on the Internet. In ensuing years, Nabil and other friends helped Shiflet learn what was happening in the Middle East and especially with ISIS. Last September, Nabil went back to Iraq for what was supposed to be a 30-day visit with The Great Need raising some money to purchase food and clothing for orphans in refugee camps. But once Nabil saw his family again and witnessed first-hand what ISIS was doing, he decided to stay there to help his people.

“That was great because it suddenly gave us a team leader on the ground in Iraq,” Shiflet said. “We started raising money in earnest and

things started moving. We’re still small but we’re extremely efficient.”

Shiflet hears that often when working with officials from two United Nations agencies – the High Commissioner for Refugees (HCR) and Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). They’re especially impressed with the low-priced supplies Nabil and his network of Iraqi distributors are able obtain.

“When we ask them to join us, the owners of these distributors even drive the trucks themselves to the refugee camps,” said Shiflet, who has another group in Iraq helping girls who escape from sex slavery with food, clothing and toiletries.

Nabil recruited about a dozen trusted relatives and friends to help with the efforts which will continue until the day the Iraqi government is able to provide such services itself.

“It’s pretty cool,” Shiflet said. “We’re pretty openly a Christian organization and he’s very open Christian but our regular team is about half

Christian, four who are Sunni Muslims, two Shiite Muslims and two Yazidi Muslims. It’s a very diverse group. There’s four women involved.

“I regularly have people track me down through the Internet, Facebook usually and ask how they can join our team. They are in Iraq, especially the Yazidi’s who have been attacked so brutally.”

Though Iraq currently occupies most of The Great Need’s time and resources, Shiflet does some consulting work with a school in Haiti and with Campus Crusade for Christ in Guatemala where

in my formal dining room that’s now my office emailing these higher ups in the Iraqi government,” he said.

Until the orphan problem is eliminated, Shiflet’s wants to expand The Great Need’s reach to other places.

“Our approach is a little different than other people,” he said. “Our goal is to compliment other peoples’ missions. Our goal is not to start an orphanage or orphanages or to work adoptions or anything like that. Our goal is to help with all of those things.”

Photos courtesy of The Great Need. Photos were taken by and are owned by Hama Abbas, a veterinarian by trade who works in a UN Camp in Iraq Kurdistan. These photos are part of a set donated to The Great Need by Mr. Abbast

he and about a dozen others will head this summer to help on a construction project. He also hopes to visit Iraq later this year.

“It still blows my mind that who am I, sitting JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 47

ADkins

Field Day

FUN RUN

48 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

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Lantanaresident

Lantanaresident

Lantanaresident

Lantanaresident

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What

RELATIONSHIP

Sun

are you creating between

S

unscreen…I stash the bottles everywhere, gym bags, drawers, purses, backpacks.

Recently, I read a report that stated that 85 percent of the population does not understand that brown spots, wrinkles, laxity, and dull-looking skin are caused from sun damage. More than 90 percent of visible changes commonly attributed to skin aging are caused by exposure to the sun.

In fact, only one in seven women wear SPF daily, and women get 50 percent of their sun exposure after age 40. That is alarming.

I understand that the SPF ratings are confusing. The simplified facts are UVA causes aging and UVB causes burns. UVAs constantly are present, no matter the season or the weather.

They are long rays and penetrate some clothing and glass. Remember this when you take your next road trip in a car, on a cloudy day. Aging!!!!

These rays penetrate much deeper into the skin, damaging the cells beneath, causing sun spots, leathery skin, wrinkles and cataracts.

UVB rays are not the same strength year-round.

They are more prevalent in the summer months and in the highest amount between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Mineral VS Synthetic Sunscreen Mineral agents reflect UVA rays away from the skin. They are great for dry, sensitive or rosaceaprone skin. Synthetic agents change UVA rays into a harmless heat shield. It is better for oily, breakout prone skin.

It is best to choose a sunscreen that will protect your skin from both UVA (aging) and UVB (burn). Selecting a sunscreen that you will use every day of the year is best. Stash them in your backpack, purse, or gym bag so that you can reapply, especially if you find yourself in the direct sunlight.

We all change our plans, occasionally, and do not want to find ourselves having to choose between having fun in the sun protected with sunscreen, versus burning, being in pain, prematurely aging and potentially developing skin cancer.

Rejuvenation

FALSE

You cannot get sun damage on a cloudy day Using sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency A good base tan prevents skin cancer A beach umbrella blocks harmful rays

Women in their 50s who: 93% 92% 87% 50% 31%

RN Advanced Aesthetic Registered Nurse Injector Owner/Manager RSR Medical Skin Rejuvenation, L.L.C.

Don’t wear shorts now because of big brown spots Tanned using a foil reflector bib in college Tanned with baby oil Tanned with baby oil AND iodine Tanned with Crisco on their friend’s roof in eighth grade

So, which sunscreen should I use?

100 50 SPF 30 SPF 15

SPF

SPF

By Rebecca Romanucci,

myths related to sun exposure:

= 99% UVB Protection UVB Protection = 98% 97% Protection = 93% UVB = UVB Protection

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 53

54 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Harpool Run Club

Sixth Graders

Learn About Lifetime Activity

By Mark Miller

W

hile some people think of running as too much work, others see it as a relaxing and sometimes competitive activity.

Count Christi Weems in the latter group.

Julia Wysocki The Harpool Middle School math teacher not only runs for fun and competition, she encourages students to do the same as sponsor of the Harpool Run Club. The group attracted about 60 sixth graders this year after around 20 participated in its debut in 2013-14.

“Maybe it’s because the kids were more familiar with it being our second year,” she said of the huge increase.

“And this group of sixth graders has been very active.”

With members ranging from Junior Olympic qualifiers to one with autism, Weems must be creative in her offerings. Some run as much as six miles and others as little as one. The group primarily uses a trail located across Stacee Lane that ends up at a playground in the Magnolia neighborhood, then turns around and returns to the school.

“We’ve done some track work and stuff like that.

They don’t like that,” Weems said. “They just love going out and running on the trail. That’s their favorite thing to do.”

Weems is happy that several from her club have taken their running to a higher level. That includes Junior Olympic qualifier Jordan Frank, and Josh Lee, who won his division at the Reindeer Romp, a 4.2-mile race in Denton in December, and the Denton

Dash for Public Schools in March. Julia Wysocki won her Reindeer Romp age group while Cooper Lanz was runner-up to Lee, and Frank was third in his division.

Since Weems only works with kids for one year (except for the girl with autism), she’s constantly looking for new club members. She does the bulk of her recruiting during school registration where she has a booth. The first runs typically happen in mid-September after the North Texas heat has subsided.

“My goal with the whole thing is running is life-long. You can do it forever.”

“I’m 41 and I run all the time. It can help you stay healthy. I just want them to know it’s something they can do the rest of their lives,” she said.

Weems has been assisted by Harpool’s Michael Guynes and Blanton Elementary School’s Lisa Dorrell. Principal Jeff Smith also has shown up to run with the students.

“It’s great to see the administration involved,” Weems said.

Working with the club is an extension of Weems’ own running career. She started in junior high school and was on the cross country team in high school. She stepped away for her sons, now ages 15 and 17, then returned about 10 years ago. To celebrate turning 40 last year, she ran 40 half-marathons including five in five days in five states.

“It was very invigorating and life-changing,” she said. “It’s like therapy. I can just go out and run and do my thing and think things through.

“When I ran cross country in high school my coach would sit on the sideline and smoke a cigarette. It’s important for me to be out there with the kids and they see I’m still doing it to this day.”

After encouraging members to at least try one 5K race last year, upped that to two this year and hopes to do more in the future.

“The best part of that is some family members will come out and run with them,” Weems said. “It can become a family event. It was cool seeing mothers and fathers running with their kids.”

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 55

Salute. Shop. Serve. Support.

The Shops at Highland Village hosted a fun-filled patriotic evening of shopping, dining, entertainment and honoring local wounded heroes.

56 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

Sponsors

All proceeds from this event benefits Helping a Hero.

“Empowering Wounded Heroes, One Home at a Time” JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 57

Thrive

at Argyle’s Hillcrest Farm

W

ithin an easy horseback ride from Lantana, Julie Cleveland Beam and Bekah Wilson are planning to introduce English riding to area youngsters during camps and private lessons this summer.

A beginner camp will run from Tuesday through Friday, July 21-24. There also will be an upcoming intermediate camp Aug. 4-7.

By Eric Williams

“Our beginner camps focus on getting to know

horses and ponies,” said Wilson. “We will be looking at subjects such as points of the horse, the natural world of horses, and colors and markings. Every

competing on horses since age 8 and still spends a week or two each month on the road at shows

traditions of the English Fox hunt thus the attire is

Wilson also grew up in the saddle, winning

and a tie or choker. However, beginners really just

and competitions.

day, we will be working on and around horses at

numerous junior and amateur championships.

through Friday, July 21-24. There also will be an

managing the riding school.

the barn.”A beginner camp will run from Tuesday upcoming intermediate camp Aug. 4-7.

The hunter/jumper sports are based on the

She has great rapport with youngsters and enjoys

formal with riding breeches, jackets, collared shirts need boots, breeches and riding helmet.

While prize race horses run at 3 years old, elite

English riding horses need more training to excel.

A first intermediate camp in mid-June provided

a great depth of knowledge. Kids learned how to

measure a horse, how to tell what is normal for an

individual pony, a horse’s unique senses, horse breeds, and tack. The riding was more advanced. The August intermediate camp will focus on more advanced flat work while riding.

“The

courses

teach

horsemanship

skills,

responsibility and teamwork,” Beam said. She added that for some, love of horses and riding will become a lifelong passion. Some may even go on to win scholarships to compete as college students.

As owner of Argyle’s Hillcrest Farm, Beam runs

Photos courtesy of Hillcrest Farms

Hillcrest Farm riders have qualified for the

National Junior Hunter Finals, North American

Beam said. “We want their growth plates to close so

Equestrian Federation Junior Jumper Champions

our sport peak at age 10-12.”

Young

Riders

Championship,

United

States

(Prix des States), Pennsylvania National Horse Show and The National Horse Show, competing among the top 15 riders in the country.

“We like for our riders to strive for big goals,”

an operation that trains horses and teaches riders in

Beam said. During an interview, Lantana resident

is located on FM 1830 just north of its intersection

her morning ride. Haskins has qualified for the U.S.

a range from beginner to elite competitor. The farm with FM 407. It has 26 stalls and five large paddocks. About 20-25 riders stable their horses

and practice there.

The daughter of a rancher, Beam has been

58 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

“We don’t really start jumping horses until age 4,”

we don’t do any long-term damage. Most horses in Beam said she imports many of the horses she

trains and sells. Air fare, ground transportation and

quarantine costs for buying a European horse, mostly from Germany and France, run about $15,000.

Beam takes a lot of satisfaction in helping horses

Michelle Haskins stopped by to discuss plans for

reach their maximum capabilities. She also works

Pony Finals in Lexington, Ky., later this summer.

habits to horses, she quickly intervenes to reinforce

Already an experienced rider, Haskins decided to train at Hillcrest Farm after her family relocated from Georgia.

with riders. When riders inadvertently teach bad correct instruction.

As important as having a good horse is, horses

and riders form competitive teams. Elite riders often

practice five or six days a week, riding more than one

horse so they can spend more time in the saddle, Beam said.

Beam is the widow of Kevin Cleveland, and took

over the overall management of the farm after his death in 2006. She now is married to Paul Beam, a news photographer who grew up on a farm in Kansas and is comfortable amongst the many animals Hillcrest Farm is a haven for horses and rescue dogs including Bear, adopted through Golden Retriever Rescue. A dog who loves to ride motorized vehicles, Bear is living the dream. He’s befriended the grooms who let him get in the front bucket on a tractor to ride around as the arena is prepared and other chores handled.

“He’s my foreman,” Beam joked as Bear energetically looks over farm operations from his elevated bucket.

Lantanaresident

on the farm.

When you spend time with Beam, you quickly realize there is a lot of mutual caring among her and her horses. On a Saturday morning, she was walking across pastures to put drops in the eyes of Joey, a retired gelding sharing a pasture with two other well-fed horses, Nitro and Prince.

Beam explained she is loyal to horses who worked hard for her and she cares for them even after they cease to have economic value.

JUNE 2015 | LANTANA living | 59

Lantanaresident

60 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

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Photos courtesy of Titensor Dental

Titensor Dental Committed to

Smiles for Life

By Steve Gamel

G

etting people to go to the dentist does not have to be like “pulling teeth.”

Dr. Steven Titensor of Titensor Dental in Flower Mound and his

son, Dr. Brett Titensor, not only have mastered the art of making that

once dreaded trip to the dental chair a pleasant experience, but they are

willing to turn it into a lasting way to help poor communities all across

Both dentists have provided school supplies, dental work, equipment

and time to various villages, schools and orphanages in these struggling parts of the world. They also have been able to use their language skills

in these areas with Dr. Steven Titensor being fluent in Spanish while Dr. Brett Titensor is fluent in Mandarin Chinese.

“This profession has been good to us,” Dr. Steven Titensor said. “It

the world.

brings us the greatest satisfaction knowing we can share our dental skills

whitening services where all proceeds go directly to the Smiles for Life

access to dental care.”

For a limited time each year, Titensor Dental offers professional teeth

Foundation (SmilesforLife.org) to help provide care for underprivileged

and help those poor and remote communities who have never had any Both Dr. Steven Titensor, a general dentist with more than 30 years

children all over the world. The program – which runs for four months

of experience, and his son Dr. Brett Titensor, are lifetime and qualified

like the Dominican Republic, Nepal, Guatemala, Mexico and China.

roundtable of top-flight dentists who facilitate the Smile for Life

from March-July – also helps fund dental humanitarian trips to places The program is a win-win for everyone. For customers, it is a chance to

have their teeth whitened by one of the premier dentists in North Texas

while at the same time being able to donate money to a worthy cause.

It is even a tax write-off since all proceeds go towards charity. In turn,

members of The Crown Council (CrownCouncil.com), an international program. Since 1998, the foundation has received nearly $22 million

that has directly benefited nearly 500 children’s charities across North

America and supported dental humanitarian trips throughout the world.

Titensor Dental recently was awarded one of the top donators for

it is a chance for Dr. Steven and Dr. Brett Titensor to continue doing

the Smiles for Life foundation this last year. Both dentists continue to

those in need.

dental skills with all those in need.

what is most near and dear to their heart…sharing their talent to help 62 | LANTANA LIVING | JUNe 2015

help their local community and worldwide communities by sharing their

Dental Decisions Can Affect Your Child’s Health Too! Does Your Child Suffer from: • Bedwetting • Aggressive Behavior • Snoring

• Poor • Swollen Adnoids Performance & Tonsils In School • ADHD • Chronic • Crooked Teeth Allergies

Titensor Dental May be Able to Help

O

nly recently have researchers and health care providers begun to understand the root cause of these symptoms - a constricted airway that interferes with proper sleep, often called Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB). Yet many kids with the above health disorders are still being “treated” in ways that can mask the symptoms without ever getting to the root cause.

Titensor Dental is proud to offer the revolutionary new Perfect Start System, an all-natural oral appliance therapy which may be an effective solution to many of the symptoms associated with SDB. The Perfect Start System has been specifically designed to promote the proper growth and development of the oral cavity, the jaw, and the upper palate. Using this exciting new technology, many of the symptoms of SDB can diminish or disappear entirely.

In addition, Perfect Start can help straighten teeth and avoid the need for braces in about 9 out of 10 kids!

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