Lantana Living Magazine August 2019

AUGUST 16, 2019 - SEPTEMBER 20, 2019

A NOT SO

LITTLE Journey WOMEN IN

BUSINESS

HARPOOL

HEELERS

BABY PROOFING

SIMPLIFIED

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

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AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 3

LantanaLiving.com

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Leanne Yocum

Advertising

Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469.583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Letters

Lantana Living invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole

property of Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email

artwork@murray-media.com www.murray-media.com

Address: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 Lantana Living is published monthly

by Murray Media Group. Some articles and/or content may be sponsored by advertisers. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. 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. © 2019 Murray Media Group

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Madness

I

t’s that time again! Are you ready to slide into another new school year? Time to purchase back-to-school supplies, school clothes, and get the endless amount of preschool forms completed. Time for parents and children to transition back into daily routines, meet new teachers, new friends, and for many, a whole new school.

For parents, this can either be a blessing or a time of stress and sadness.

But it’s always a time for everyone to get excited about the anticipation of a fresh start. Even for me, although I am clearly beyond school age, I still love the excitement that a new school year brings.

I also look forward to all the stories my kids will share – at least for the first week or so before they go back to their usual response “good” to my “how was your day” question.

This year, our family will welcome a sophomore into college, a junior into high school, and an 8th-grader returning to her current school. So we should have plenty of excitement around our house, to say the least. I don’t know about you, but each year during this time it’s like a “mini” New Year’s for me, where I set my resolutions for a better year.

I think things like “This year I am going to read every school email within 24 hours of it arriving” and “I am going to cook more family meals” or “Be more organized with the kids’ school activities.”

The list goes on. But, just like most of my New Year’s resolutions, by about the third week, I am back to just trying to keep my head above water.

In this issue, we are celebrating Women In Business, and I think it’s a perfect time to remind parents - especially Moms – that you are doing a great job. It’s Ok not to be perfect, because no one is regardless of what you see on Facebook or “Fakebook,” as I like to call it.

Many of the amazing women featured in our publication would be happy to tell you how they struggle to balance home and work, how they sometimes feel guilty and have days where they feel they fail at both work and at home.

That being said, I hope everyone keeps this in mind. And the next time you see a parent who forgot their child’s lunch or is late to pick up their kiddo from school, maybe offer them a smile or a word of encouragement instead of judging them.

I genuinely believe we are all just trying to do our best. I hope you enjoy this issue, and we wish you and your family all the best in the 2019-2020 school year!

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

www.LantanaLiving.com

TABLE OF

CONTENTS Women in Business

ISSUE Get to know your local female business owners.

32

On the Cover: Is Vann (left) and Thomas Little (right)

FEATURED:

A NOT SO LITTLE JOURNEY

ASK THE EXPERTS 14 Edit This with Steve Gamel 38 Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental 44 Fitness with Jesse James Fit 50 Gardening with Complete Solutions 51 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing PHOTOS FROM LANTANA 16 Lantana Resident's Summer 41 Lantana Resident's Summer BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 15 Balmos Law: Planning.

Protection. Peace of Mind.

21 Win Kids: Expanding the Ninja Warrior Program www.LantanaLiving.com

22 Law Office of Kimberly N. Shanklin: Client-Driven & Dedicated to Your Fight 49 KoonsFuller: A Strong Legal Reputation. An Even Stronger Legal Team

46 EDITORS PICK: Helping

Your Child Figure out A Career 23 Foodie Friday DFW 24 Lantana Ladies League 26 High School Football 2019 27 Fido Fest 28 Baby Proofing Simplified

ARTICLES

34 Fall Fashion with Hello Daffodil

07 Signs of Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke

37 Community Corner

08 Women in Business

42 Productivity Tips

10 Inside Community

52 Labor Day Weekend Getaways

11 Inside Education

55 Jalen Wilson Switches to Kansas

12 Lady Wildcats Inch Closer to District Playoff Push

56 National Fun Days

17 Harpool Heelers 18 Tips to Get Kids Back On A School Sleep Schedule

58 91st North Texas Fair & Rodeo 61 Sheriff’s Corner 62 Jalapeño Tater Tot Recipe AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

6 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

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Lantan a Resident

Signs of

HEAT EXHAUSTION & HEAT STROKE

by Dr. Rebecca Butler, Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

T Sponsored Content

he heat of the summer has definitely arrived. Summer is a season of fun – pool parties, park days, and family barbecues result in long days of playing outside in the heat and in the sun. Additionally, athletes are often preparing for the upcoming season with training camps and outdoor workouts.

stroke. If your child shows symptoms of heat exhaustion, you should:

•

Chills, despite the heat

•

Fainting, dizziness or weakness

•

Headache

•

Increased sweating

•

Increased thirst

•

Irritability

•

Muscle cramps

•

Nausea and/or vomiting

It’s important to treat heat exhaustion immediately, as it can develop into heat

•

Severe headache

•

Seizures Weakness and/or dizziness

Encourage them to drink cool fluids that contain salt (like sports rehydration drinks)

•

Apply a cold wet towel or sponge to the skin

•

•

If your child complains of painful muscle cramps in his or her legs, arms or abdomen, you can also gently stretch or massage sore muscles.

If your child shows signs of heat stroke,

Heat stroke is a severe type of heat

Cool, clammy skin

Rapid heartbeat and breathing

•

Signs of heat exhaustion in children may include:

•

•

Bring your child to a cool, shaded place

If your child is unable to drink or seems

An elevated body temperature, usually less than 104˚ F

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

•

Spending time outside is great, as long as your child is protected by sunscreen, proper hydration, protective clothing, and frequent rest periods to avoid heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

•

•

to be losing alertness, call your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.

Signs/Symptoms of heat stroke in kids: illness that occurs when a child’s body creates more heat than it can release.

This results in a rapid increase in core body temperature, leading to brain

call 911 and: •

Bring your child indoors or into shade and undress him or her right away.

•

Begin rapid cooling by immersing him or her in a bathtub of cool/cold water.

•

If not available, apply cold towels over much of the body replacing them frequently

•

Avoid pushing fluids unless your child is conscious and alert

It is important to seek immediate

damage or death if not promptly treated.

emergency medical treatment.

Signs of heat stroke in children

Be safe, have fun in the sun, enjoy the

may include: •

A body temperature that rises dangerously high – above 104 degrees

•

Absence of sweating

•

Confusion, disorientation

•

Flushed, hot and usually dry skin

•

Loss of consciousness

summer with your children. BUT be aware of the extreme dangers that can occur with high heat and dehydration.

VOTE FOR US! July 24

Aug. 21

940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com | 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. #100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-5pm | Wed: 7:30am - 12:30pm | Fri: 7:30am - 4pm • Sat: 9am - 12pm

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AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 7

Women in Business Article

Women in BUSINESS Inspirational quotes from successful businesswomen in Denton County

by Steve Gamel

Donna Phillips, Studio 360 Med Spa “Starting out was the least thought-about thing I have ever done in my life. Working for a company and feeling like I could do it better and make more money doing it for myself just made sense. I was 17 and had less knowledge of what could go wrong than fear – and I had zero fear. I set out one day to sell one person on my ability to provide a service in the male dominated industry of risk management and asset recovery. One man took a chance and gave me my first account, so I picked my husband up for his last lunch break at the job he had no idea he would be quitting that day to open our own business.”

photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

“The quickest way to succeed is by helping other people get what they want out of life and where they want to be in life! Happy people are always more successful, or maybe it’s the other way around – successful people are happier. But I think you have to be happy first. If you are unhappy with life, then a struggle or a challenge will feel overwhelming. I have been there. When you are happy, the hard times are just a hill for a high stepper.”

Poonam Bhana, V Eye P in Carrollton photography by Kim Ortiz Photography

“I had many challenges along the way. Not only am I a woman who has immigrated twice from different countries, I had to start over each time going to college to graduate with Optometry degrees and paying off student loans in each country. I had to learn the differences within the field of Optometry between these countries and make changes to many things I was accustomed to. This was a learning curve and made being successful a bit harder.”

“Do your research and know your demographics you are trying to serve/capture.

Set realistic goals and explore ways to achieve those goals. When you truly know your demographic, you are better servant to your patrons. Being able to provide a business that offers pragmatic solutions to all varieties of clientele gives a lot of leverage to capture every patient/customer/client. Be actively involved in support groups that are available to your business and most importantly, never be afraid to ask for help.”

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Beth Caudill, Make The Move Team

“I encourage people to

“I think people are more concerned with their own business or actions. I like to lift people up.

I encourage people to success, even if they are a

success, even

competing business. You never know who you are going to work with next. It serves a great benefit

if they are a competing photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

to treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. I have learned that I have quite a bit to offer others. I’m happy to share what I have learned though the years as a successful

business.”

business owner.”

“Do your research, find your why, go forth and conquer.”

Kim Gronberg, Gronberg Orthodontics “I think a roadblock is thinking that life is unfair and having a victim mentality.

First of all, life is not going to be fair, whether you are a man or a woman. So get over that! I feel like the biggest determinate of how “successful” you will be is your own attitude. I think the women who are truly successful don’t have time to talk or think about potential obstacles for them because they are too busy just doing what

needs to be done! If you have a goal and want to achieve it, just do it. You are the main person who can hold yourself back.”

“Just know it’s going to be a lot of work – but anything in life that is worthwhile is going to be a lot of work. Not everything is going to go 100% right – there will be a lot of tears. Just take each day as it comes, repeat the things that are working, and quickly re-evaluate and change the things that aren’t

working. Sometimes, we think we have to plan everything out perfectly before we get started. But I would say successful business owners many times are more of a “Ready, Fire, Aim” than “Ready, Aim, Fire.” Don’t waste years

photo courtesy of Dr. Gronberg

overanalyzing every small detail.”

phy by

photogra

Erin Lundie, Primrose School of Lantana

did Mem

n Your Ca

ourCan ories (Y

“I can do hard things! I think being reflective has allowed me the best insight into our business and where I can make adjustments. Being able to humble myself and see the mistakes and missed opportunities has allowed me to grow as a leader the most.

But also, I have learned how important it is to celebrate each little milestone, too! Owning a business is a marathon, not a sprint, so it’s really important to see the good things along the way.”

didMem m)

ories.co

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“When you are preparing to get your business off the ground, don’t just focus on your business. Think about all your other responsibilities at home and plan for them now. Do you need help with childcare, carpooling, or managing your house? Are there things you’ve typically done, but you may not have time for now? Sometimes being a business owner can give you some much needed flexibility, but sometimes it’s the opposite. There will be days when your best laid plans go awry, so having that support network is essential. This was the best advice I received before opening our school, and it was spot on.”

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY 10TH ANNUAL RUN LANTANA 5K & 10K Sat., Sept 21 | Blanton Elementary School, 9501 Stacee Ln. • Argyle, TX 76266 10K start: 8:25am $40 Race Fee + $3.00 Sign Up Fee • Price after August 31: $45 5K start: 8:35am $30 Race Fee + $2.50 Sign Up Fee • Price after August 31: $35

On your mark, get set, go! Runners and walkers of all ages, lace up your tennis shoes for a fun Saturday family event to benefit Ranch Hands Rescue Counseling Center & Animal Sanctuary. Tickets available at runsignup.com. For race details, please visit www.runlantana.com.

LANTANA LADIES LEAGUE 2019-20 MEMBERSHIP KICK-OFF MEETING Tue., Aug 20 | 6:15 - 9:30pm | Lantana Golf Club 800 Golf Club Dr. • Lantana, TX 76226 If you have the power to make someone happy, please save the date and join the ladies for light hors d’oeuvres, $5 wine and cash bar and 50/50 raffle. The league welcomes women from Argyle, Bartonville, Copper Canyon, Double Oak, Denton, Flower Mound, and Highland Village. For more information, please visit lantanaladiesleague.wildapricot.org/join-us

RYAN GLENN BAND AT MARTY B’S Thu., Sept 5 | 7pm | Marty B’s 2664 FM 407 East • Bartonville, TX 76226 No one does Rockabilly music quite like the 17 year old Texas teen sensation, Ryan Glenn. The Ryan Glenn Band bridges the gap between classic and new.

With a distinctive skill set and compositional flare, the band inhabits a space all their own. Kick back at Marty B’s and make some memories with family and friends at this FREE event.

For more information check out www.martybsplace.com/events.

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INSIDE EDUCATION

EP RAYZOR BOOK FAIR

WATCH D.O.G.S. PIZZA PARTY & PTA MEETING

377 Rayzor Rd. • Argyle, TX 76226

377 Rayzor Rd. • Argyle, TX 76226

Wed., Sep 11 | 6 - 7pm | EP Rayzor

Tue., Sep 10 | 7 - 7:40am | EP Rayzor 377 Rayzor Rd. • Argyle, TX 76226

Calling all awesome pawsome dads of grrrreat students! A fabulous way to get to know other dads, have some laughs, devour some pizza and learn all about the Watch D.O.G.S program!

Grandparents welcome! Parents by appointment only. Just show up with your lovely grandchild in the morning.

Enjoy the time spent with your family along with donuts, coffee and make sure to visit the book fair too!

Mon., Sep 9 - Sep 13 | 8am - 2pm | Library “The more you read, the more you know. The more you know, the smarter you grow.” — Dr. Seuss Hooray! It’s the first book fair of the year!

See you there!

BREAKFAST WITH GRANDPARENTS

photo courtesy of Denton Guyer FFA facebook

DENTON GUYER FFA KICKOFF Thu., Aug 29 | 6:30 - 9:30am | Guyer High School 7501 Teasley Ln. • Denton, TX 76210

What is FFA? Come find out! The meeting is open to everyone. However, students wanting to show an animal or be involved in an ag mechanics projects must have a parent in attendance. For more information check out sites.google. com/g.dentonisd.org/guyerffa/home or visit the Facebook page @DentonGuyerFFA. www.LantanaLiving.com

ADKINS FALL YOUTH SPORTS Fall season starts Sep 21st or 22nd depending on program and location. i9Sports believes in having fun and teaching good sportsmanship! Flag football, soccer, ZIP lacrosse, baseball or cheer, ages 3 - 12, are organized co-ed teams.

Buddy requests are honored. Choose your location and register now at i9sports.com or call 817.400.4525, final registration is August 24 for the fall programs.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

LADY WILDCATS

INCH CLOSER

TO DISTRICT, PLAYOFF PUSH

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer has always been a well-oiled machine on the volleyball court.

This year is no different.

Fresh off back-to-back playoff appearances, the Lady Wildcats are loaded with talent and have their sights set on preparing for another run through the gauntlet that is District 5-6A. They’ll open league play September 13 at Byron Nelson and have every intention of building early momentum.

“I am really excited about this group,” head coach Heather Van Noy said.

“They’ve been playing together for a long time, and not only that, we have girls that have played in this district before. We knew it would be tough last

“KENDALL IS MY NEW MAGGIE. SHE’S GOING TO BE REALLY GOOD,” VAN NOY SAID. 12 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

year, but we were a little shellshocked.

These are state contending teams, and being exposed to that type of competition will prepare us for playoffs.”

If any team is prepared for that type of no-nights-off schedule, it’s Guyer.

This year’s roster includes eight returners, four of whom were in the starting rotation.

One of those stars is junior Brooke Slusser, who committed to Alabama last year and is heading into her third year on varsity.

As a sophomore, Slusser, a setter, posted 263 digs, 228 kills, 54 aces, and 512 assists to help lead Guyer to a 30-17 record. Joining her is outside hitter Hailey Schneider, who is pledged to Arkansas, Ella Bridges (TWU), and Harlie Cooper

“I’M PROUD TO HAVE THAT TYPE OF COMPETITION FOR THESE GIRLS,” VAN NOY SAID. (Stephen F. Austin). Jordyn Williams is also back and will be relied on even more at the net following the graduation of Rachel Tullos. Last year, Williams had a team-high 421 kills to go with 128 blocks and 232 digs.

Rounding out the returning stars is Maggie Walsh, who was the district newcomer of the year last year as a freshman. Walsh’s stat line was pretty balanced with 342 digs, 191 kills, and 52 blocks. Van Noy also pointed to freshman Kendall Stowers, whose impressive vertical makes her a perfect fit for the Lady Wildcats’ front row.

“Kendall is my new Maggie. She’s going to be really good,” Van Noy said.

While Guyer expects to make the playoffs, Van Noy continued to stress that the road won’t be easy in district.

The District 5-6A schedule includes Southlake, Byron Nelson, Keller, Keller Central, Keller Fossil Ridge, Keller Timber Creek, and Northwest Eaton.

After opening with Byron Nelson, Guyer’s first round of district includes games at Keller Timber Creek, Keller, Keller Central, and Northwest Eaton and home games against Keller Fossil Ridge and Southlake.

Five of their final seven district games will all be at home.

“I’m proud to have that type of competition for these girls,” Van Noy said. “I think the girls are ready to get started, and that’s the most important thing. We’ve been playing together in summer league; it was an enjoyable summer, and now it’s time to get to work.” www.LantanaLiving.com

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AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 13

Ask The Expert: Edit This

MANAGEMENT Hacks for Writers

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 EditThisLLC.com

I

FOCUS

wrote the majority of this blog while sitting in a waiting room before a big presentation. I used a notes application on my phone to do most of the work, too.

You’re going to need to stay focused PLAN

on those days when it seems like too

More often than not, that’s the way it goes when you are a self-employed writer.

There are a ton of projects to keep up with, so you have to make the most of your time! In fact, some might argue being really good at time management is more important than being good at your craft.

If that means knocking out an article while in a waiting room, or on an airplane, you do it.

I’ve been a writer for nearly 20 years and have come up with a myriad of clever ways to divide my time efficiently to cover all aspects of running my business, spending time with my beautiful family, and even carving out a little time for myself.

Take advantage of times during the day – or night – when you typically have your creative juices flowing and there’s less chance for interruptions. Typically, that’s not the middle of the day! I get most of my bigger articles done at night or very early in the morning.

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| AUGUST 2019

slow down and prioritize each project in your head. Cutting target goals into smaller and more immediate pieces will help you accomplish more than you thought you could.

PLAN AHEAD

KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO DELEGATE

Use a calendar to plan things out. It doesn’t matter if it’s a paper calendar or the one on your phone. At the beginning of each month, I map out everything I know I have going on and when I plan on writing those projects. As the days and weeks go by and more projects come my way, I simply add them in.

I made this the last one on the list because

KEEP “STUFF” HANDY My family teases me because I constantly have my computer with me in the backseat of the car – even if I have nothing going on. I also have my phone, a pen, and a pad of paper. Keep that stuff handy because you NEVER want to be caught unprepared as a self-employed writer.

That’s not to say you always have to be in “work mode,” but when inspiration strikes, you’re ready for it.

there will come a day when a one-person show can no longer do the job on their own. You have to be able to recognize that before it happens, and when it does, be able to step in and delegate some of that extra work to someone else.

S

U

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX ON “OFFICE HOURS”

With the right focus, you will be able to

FOC

Below are hacks that work for me:

many projects are coming in at once.

www.LantanaLiving.com

Business Spotlight

PLANNING.

PROTECTION. Peace of Mind.

J

by Steve Gamel

ennifer Balmos has practiced law for almost 15 years. But it wasn’t until she made the leap to estate planning and elder law that she felt like she was making a real difference.

“I missed talking to people, listening to the problems they were facing, and then advising them on their best options,” said Jennifer, a Lantana resident and mother of two whose previous focus was on intellectual property. “I love people and I love problem solving. The best part of my job is seeing a client leave my office with a huge weight off their shoulders.”

pictured above is Jennifer Balmos who was nominated top 3 for best Elder Law Attorney for Best of Denton County 2019

940.300.9834 Balmoslaw.com 2652 FM 407, Ste. #215G Bartonville, Texas 76226

www.LantanaLiving.com

That client-first attitude has made her firm, Balmos Law in Bartonville Town Center, a trusted option for Lantana residents seeking individualized planning services.

These services range from powers of attorney to medical directives, wills and trusts, guardianship provisions, decisions on nursing home care, asset transfer and protection, and more.

Jennifer believes planning can help make emotional or traumatic situations just a little bit easier. With proper planning,

“It is always easier to plan in advance rather than react to a crisis...but there are so many more options for those families who are willing to plan ahead.” families like yours can avoid making medical decisions while in crisis mode.

Children can know that their parents’ long-term care plan is established, and seniors can have their wishes and dignity protected.

Bottom line, Balmos Law is committed to providing families the peace of mind they deserve now rather than later.

“I talk a lot about making a plan – not just drafting a certain document, but having a plan,” Jennifer said. “It is always easier to plan in advance rather than react to a crisis. No one ever really wants to talk about getting sick or passing away, which is understandable, but there are so many more options for those families who are willing to plan ahead.”

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

LANTANA Resident’s

SUMMER

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

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| AUGUST 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

Harpool

HEELERS W

by Leanne Yocum

“The reason we came up with the name is because our mascot is the Longhorn and heelers keep the herd together and keep them safe...”

hat is safety in school? Just ask Deputy Kady Wilkinson and her Harpool Heelers! They are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to keeping kids safe at school.

Wilkinson is the School Resource Officer

for dads. Middle schools don’t have any

suspicious activity and engaging and

Lantana. The partnership between the

with a program similar to Watch D.O.G.S.

schoolers are a special age group.

(SRO) at Harpool Middle School of

Denton Independent School District

type of program. So, I wanted to come up but open for moms too. I’m a mom and

and the Denton County Sheriff’s Office

had a son in elementary school but never

administration to provide a safe learning

down and came up with the program we

allows her to work closely with school

got to help. So, I started jotting things

environment on school campuses.

have today.”

“Safety and security in the school is my

The name Harpool Heelers was carefully

said Wilkinson. A law enforcement officer

“The reason we came up with the name

passion and a super big priority to me,” for over 19 years, she is never daunted by seemingly impossible tasks. “Once I became SRO 11 years ago, I really

started getting into how to keep the kids safe at school. I thrive on creating and implementing new programs to teach students and teachers what to do if

something happens at school and what we are going to do about it.”

Motivated by dedicated moms and dads who share her passion for enhancing school security, Deputy Wilkinson

bounced into action and created a plan.

“Elementary schools have Watch D.O.G.S,

which is a nationwide program, but it’s just www.LantanaLiving.com

selected instead.

is because our mascot is the Longhorn

and heelers keep the herd together and keep them safe,” she said. “Volunteers

must pass a DISD background check, and be a legal guardian of a Harpool student.

They must also assist with morning

drop off, afternoon pick up, help in the

interacting with the students. Middle Creating bonds with them and still being cool is a very important job.”

Deputy Wilkinson has put together an

easy and convenient process to schedule volunteer hours.

“We look at the calendar, and they decide what day and shift they want to work.

They can volunteer once a week or once a month. It is completely up to them.

Ideally, a shift is four hours long. Kids are in the classroom for 45 minutes. During the four-minute switch to get to their

next class is when volunteers have the opportunity to interact with students.”

lunchroom, and volunteers must purchase

Deputy Wilkinson is beyond proud of

participating in the program.”

Middle school, which is a community

a Harpool Heelers T-shirt to wear while The emphasis of her plan is just to be present.

“Volunteers are the extra set of eyes

walking outside and inside of the school, ensuring doors are secure, reporting

the parents and volunteers of Harpool within itself that bursts with school pride when it comes to making a difference in kids’ lives. The presence of the Harpool

Heelers is building a stronger, safer, and

more trusting school environment for their most precious resource...their children.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

S e v e n T i p s To G e t

Kids Back

ON A SCHOOL SLEEP SCHEDULE

by Steve Gamel

R

aise your hand if you’re still having to “gently” pull your screaming and groggy child out of bed so they can get dressed and make it to school on time. Wow; that’s a lot of hands. For many parents, the struggle is real, especially during the first couple of weeks of the school year when our kiddos are still used to lazy summer days of staying up late and sleeping in.

Getting up early for school is difficult for any kid or parent, and while you probably should have introduced a new sleep routine a week or so before school started, all is not lost. Many of the same tips still apply now that school has started.

Here are a few you can try right now to give your kids the rest they need and make those mornings a tad easier.

Don’t Let Them Nap After School Try to avoid allowing your child to take a nap after school, as it will only make going to bed later that much more difficult. You can avoid the midday snooze by keeping them active with sports, putting a priority on getting their homework done, or even putting them to work with a few chores around the house.

What tips do you have to make getting your child back on a sleep schedule less stressful? Share them with us on our Facebook page. We’d also love to see your first day of school pictures.

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| AUGUST 2019

Cut Out Caffeine As we all know, caffeine can even make grownups jumpy and wide awake. So you can imagine that allowing your child to drink soda at dinner may be counterproductive if you’re trying to get them to go to bed earlier. Choose water instead.

Get Into A Routine Creating a routine that your child can count on every night will help them wind down and mentally prepare for bed. A perfect example for younger kids is having them take a bath, brush their teeth, get their pajamas on, and read a book. You can even have fun with this and create a bedtime chart, complete with pictures and “good behavior stars.” For older kids, you can replace some of these steps by just sitting with them in their room and let them talk about their day. www.LantanaLiving.com

Know How Much Sleep They Need The first step in determining when your child should go to bed is determining how much sleep they need. The National Sleep Foundation recommends different hours for different age groups. For example, teenagers need roughly 8-10 hours of sleep versus a preschooler, who needs 1013 hours of quality sleep.

Adjust Slowly Once you know how much sleep your child needs, you may be thinking the answer to making up ground is to enforce a ridiculously early bedtime right off the bat.

On the contrary, a solid tip is to work them into the new pattern gradually – start with moving the time up by 20 or 30 minutes, then push it up 45 minutes to an hour.

Limit Electronic Screen Time Our kids are used to watching TV, playing video games, or talking to friends on their phones. This extra screen time, especially right before bedtime, makes it harder for them to fall asleep. Eliminate screen time at least an hour before their new bedtime, or better yet, immediately after dinner.

Move Everything Else Up, Too Another way to help get the kids into bed earlier once school has started is to move all the busy household chores up an hour or so. For example, have them do their homework as soon as they get home from school, so it’s out of the way, then try having dinner as a family at 5:30 instead of 6:30 p.m. You can also adjust your own bedtime, so your child realizes it’s time for everyone to go to bed. This creates a calmer mood throughout the house as bedtime approaches. www.LantanaLiving.com

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www.LantanaLiving.com

R O F S D N A P EX

A J N I N RRIIOORR

G D I N N A E X P

Business Spotlight

E T H

WAR R

P

972.355.9988

A

| WinKids.net

few years ago, Mike Winburn added a Ninja Warriors training program to his long list of kid-

centered classes at Win Kids in Flower

Mound, thinking only that he’d give it a try and see what happened next.

Today, he’s putting the final touches on remodeling his entire facility to

accommodate a program that won’t stop growing.

This September, Winburn will unveil a

brand new full-padded Extreme Ninja

Warrior Training Center for all experience

levels that is double the size of the original version. It features two 80-foot long ninja lanes packed with fun challenges like zip

lines, floating bridges, cargo nets, a spider wall, launch trampolines, a salmon ladder and cannonball alley, and more.

Popularized by the American Ninja Warrior

|

3000 Waketon

Available programs include ninja classes, ninja camps, ninja warrior competitions,

birthday parties, play days, and open gym.

This is a chance to train and

compete to be a REAL American

Ninja Warrior. The program is also a first for Flower Mound.

“When I started this three years ago,

I was amazed how quickly it took off –

to the point where it was rivaling some of our other programs,” said Winburn, who added that he had up to 250

kids participating each week. “It’s so

undeniably fun to do obstacle courses and work on your speed and strength.

Plus, it’s developmentally appropriate for all sports. The kids love it, so we’ve been doing all these crazy renovations and

crashing out walls to create more space.”

He added, “We’ve been changing

offer a safety landing pit, spring floor,

never stopped.”

www.LantanaLiving.com

Flower

and custom triple-height warped walls.

television program and other athletic

competitions, the training center will also

•

and innovating for years, and we’ve

O

G

R

A

M

amel

G

by Steve

Mound, TX 75028

The renovations will also give more space to the gymnastics area and open more doors for Win Kids’ growing martial arts classes. Dance students will also move to the front of the facility with new class spaces. Winburn said construction crews have been working at night so that everything is business as usual during the day.

“This has been a wild summer with all the construction. But when it’s done, it will be awesome,” Mike said.

If you haven’t been to Win Kids yet, you’re missing out. Since 1998, thousands of children and families each year come to Win Kids for everything from gymnastics and swim classes to dance, sports, martial arts, and music.

The facility is also the perfect host for birthday parties, camps, and a slew of other super fun activities.

Mike’s dream of building an amazing children’s place has come true, and clearly, it’s only getting better.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 21

Business Spotlight

CLIENT-DRIVEN

& DEDICATED

TO YOUR

T

FIGHT

by Steve Gamel

here aren’t many mornings where Kimberly Shanklin isn’t waking up to a barrage of text messages and emails from clients of her law firm. At first glance, the list almost seems like too many for any one person to get back with promptly.

But one by one, Shanklin responds as she always does – all with a reassuring tone that she is there to fight for them.

“It requires a lot of my time, but I open myself up so that my clients always feel like they can have trust in me,” she said.

“I want them to feel comfortable reaching out to me. Some even feel comfortable texting me at 10 p.m., and if I respond right then, I feel like I can ease their stress.”

940.382.8216 | shanklinlawfirm.com 400 West Oak St., Ste. 204 Denton, TX 76201

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| AUGUST 2019

Kimberly’s practice is focused on family law and select criminal cases. Kimberly is also one of few attorneys chosen to

represent high-risk clients through the

family drug court, and often represents

both parents and children in CPS cases.

These are emotionally charged cases,

but it’s never anything she can’t handle.

It’s all to help their clients get back to leading a normal life.

“I love the balance of “It requires a lot Shanklin lives by the both,” she said. “With of my time, but I open belief that there should criminal cases, it’s be a personal touch myself up so that my applying the law to to the practice of law, clients always feel the facts and getting and her firm is a true the best result for each like they can have representation of that. client. With some of trust in me...”

Kimberly’s team these family law cases, at the Law Office of it’s very intensive with Kimberly Shanklin, PLLC multiple life-altering decisions is a one-stop-shop for all your involved. You have to take a step back legal needs, with a focus on specialized and focus on quality over quantity so that attention, superior representation, and you can devote the time you need to each efficient decision-making. They represent person. I love helping all my clients in any clients in all types of family law cases, way I can.” including divorce, child custody, and Contact the Law Office of Kimberly adoptions. She is also the go-to Denton County attorney in misdemeanor and felony criminal cases.

Shanklin, PLLC at 940.382.8216 or kimberly@lawyer.com.

www.LantanaLiving.com

Ramen Mura :Foodie Friday DFW

Ramen T

here’s just something about ramen restaurants that draws HUGE crowds of loyal fans.

And that includes us! So, when we heard that Flower Mound was getting its own

ramen restaurant, Ramen Mura, we knew we couldn’t wait to try them out. And we

might have gone three times in one week. photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

Ramen Mura is the realization of Owner

Joo’s dream to own a ramen restaurant.

And his wife, Jin, was happy to support his

We know the concept of ramen might be new to some of you, so let us guide you

through what some of our early favorites at Ramen Mura are.

For an appetizer we recommend you start out with the Gyoza, which are their fried pork dumplings.

When it comes to your ramen, you’ve

got lots of options, including some glutenfree and vegan ones! Their Mura Special

dream after they had owned JJ’s Donut

is their vegan ramen and coming from

they sold the donut shop to their cousin

It comes with fried tofu, onion, corn, grape

them for lunch and dinner at their new

bokchoy, pickled ginger, and a Yuzu paste.

Palace here in town for over 10 years! So,

a meat-eater, I actually really loved it!

and told all their customers to come visit

tomato, Shitake mushrooms, eggplant,

ramen restaurant.

I’m a big fan of spice (ask my team ... I put

And so far, it seems all of their customers

Tabasco on everything), so I also love their

time we’ve gone in, it’s been PACKED!

broth and served with a spicy sauce.

have taken them up on that! Every 972.822.8254 DallasRamenMura.com 6100 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 400 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Mura

We actually had a hard time pulling Joo

and Jin aside to get an interview filmed.

Lucky for us they close down shop from 2:30-5:00 p.m. every day for break.

Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen made with a pork

All of their broths are made in house in the biggest pot you’ve ever seen - and they take four hours to bring to perfection.

If ramen isn’t quite your jam, we also love

their Korean Beef Bulgogi! Amazing flavor and tenderness in the beef.

Ramen Mura may be a dream come true

for Joo, but I’d say it’s also a dream come 972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

www.LantanaLiving.com

true for us and all you other ramen fans

out there! And if you’ve never tried ramen, find a friend to go with. Or, shoot, call me and I’ll go with you! Then you might start going three times a week too.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 23

Lantana Ladies League

KICKS OFF ANOTHER YEAR

OF GIVING BACK

...THE GROUP WELCOMES WOMEN FROM ARGYLE, BARTONVILLE, COPPER CANYON, DOUBLE OAK, DENTON, FLOWER MOUND, AND HIGHLAND VILLAGE TO JOIN.

24 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

T

by Kristine Hallingstad, LLL Vice-President

he Lantana Ladies League is hosting its annual meeting on August 20th to kick off another successful year of giving back. In 2019, the Lantana Ladies League has grown to over 230 members who are committed to improving the lives of people in the surrounding community. During the last membership year, the league contributed over $35,000 in donations to various charities in the community. Members put in hundreds of volunteer hours to support local non-profit organizations as well.

www.LantanaLiving.com

photos courtesy of Kristine Hallingstad

There is no better time to join or become a sponsor of the Lantana Ladies League.

For more information on membership or business sponsorship opportunities, go to lantanaladiesleague.com.

The league also hosts member social events throughout the year. Whether you’ve lived in the area for some time, or if you’re new, joining the Lantana Ladies League is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Because the league serves the surrounding communities of Lantana, the group welcomes women from Argyle, Bartonville, Copper Canyon, Double Oak, Denton, Flower Mound, and Highland Village to join.

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 25

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 2019

by Steve Gamel

T

he 2019 high school football season starts next week.

As you prepare to follow your favorite team through the regular season and, hopefully, the playoffs, we want to get everyone clued in on what all the football experts are saying.

Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine, regarded as the Bible of football in Texas, recently published its preseason magazine with previews of more than 1,400 high school teams. Here is a brief recap of some of the top teams in our Denton County coverage area, specifically, Guyer and Liberty Christian.

26 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

GUYER WILDCATS

(Coach John Walsh)

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN WARRIORS (Coach Steven Greek)

2018 record: 6-6 area finalist

2018 record:

2019 Projection: 1st place

8-5, state semifinalists

District opponents:

2019 Projection:

Southlake Carroll

1st Place

Keller Fossil Ridge

District opponents:

Trophy Club Byron Nelson Keller Central Northwest Eaton Keller Keller Timber Creek Key players:

Eli Stowers, QB Grant Mahon, DT Kaedric Cobbs, RB Deuce Harmon, WR Seth Meador, WR Jonathan Jones, LB

Fort Worth All Saints Midland Christian Addison Trinity Christian Fort Worth Nolan Catholic Key players: Collin Gamble, WR/DB; Daniel Greek, QB; Cristian Driver, WR/DB; Andy Buttrell, OL; Micah Grizzle, OL; Reid Rorick, WR/DB;

Zhighill McMillan, WR

Kellen Moran, WR/DB;

Jaden Fugett, DB

Tye Strickland, ATH.

www.LantanaLiving.com

FIDO FEST Sat., Sept. 28 | 10 am - 1pm

Heritage Park • Flower Mound, TX

Join Humane Tomorrow at Fido Fest for a celebration of dogs that raise funds to support the programs and services of Humane Tomorrow. While there, enjoy the kid-friendly activities, educational booths, entertainment, and have your pet’s picture taken by a professional pet photographer.

A walk to save dogs will start off the event.

Admission is free.

Sign up at fidofest2019.eventbrite.com.

For more info on the event to to www.HumaneTomorrow.org/fidofest Presented by: Humane Tomorrow www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

Baby

Proofing SIMPLIFIED

by Leanne Yocum

A

re they really going to let us leave this hospital with this baby? From that moment on, you are instantly and irrevocably entrusted with the most extraordinary responsibility – keeping your new baby safe!

Avoid the bumps and boo-boos with a little baby proofing know how.

NURSERY

FURNITURE

BATHROOM

Cuddly blankets, pillows, crib bumpers, and huggable stuffed animals flaunt oohs and ahhs. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) caution parents to avoid putting these items in the crib with their newborns.

Snuggly items can cover their nose and mouth and prevent them from breathing.

Open drawers are magnets for babies learning to pull up. Fill lower drawers with heavier items and keep them closed. Consider furniture anchors or straps so heavy furniture will be less likely to tip over. Wrangle in toys, storing them in a toy chest with a safe hinged lid that won’t snap closed on little cowgirl and cowboy pint-sized fingers. Accessorize tables with corner guards, bumpers, or foam insulation to soften the impact. Use double-sided tape inside foam insulation for extra superstar strength.

Forbidden treasures such as razors, mouthwash, toothpaste, cosmetics, hair products, and perfumes should be stored in latched cabinets and drawers.

Put a hook or lock high up on the bathroom door to ensure tiny pirates keep out. Keep water temperature set to no higher than 120 degrees to minimize accidental scalding.

Anti-scald safety devices slow water to a trickle if it reaches dangerously high temperatures. Turn on a cold faucet before the hot and turn off hot faucet before the cold. Don’t let the doorbell or cell phones distract you while your bathing beauty’s in the tub.

28 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

WINDOWS

KITCHEN

ELECTRICAL CORDS and OUTLETS

Babies love to explore. Move cribs, chairs, and large toys a child can stand on away from windows. Install window stops or window guards. Ensure blind cords are higher than your little one can reach. Replace old window blinds with cordless shades or use cord stops.

Cut blind cord loops just above the tassel and replace each cord with a new tassel. Some blinds require the cord be looped to function properly.

Little chefs love to help! Create a play cupboard away from the cooking area. Include wooden spoons, plastic containers, and saucepans. Place cleaning products, breakables, sharp knives, peelers, graters, and food processor blades in upper cabinets.

When using front burners, turn pot handles to the back. Consider knob covers or remove the stove knobs when not in use. Avoid spills that can burn delicate skin. Don’t leave a hot cup or dish at the edge of a table where curious hands can reach. Don’t sit with your baby on your lap while drinking a hot beverage or carry your baby with one hand while carrying a hot drink with the other.

Wiggly cords and mysterious outlets are irresistible for baby ninjas with emerging skills. Hide cords behind furniture so your little warrior cannot tug on cords that may also be attached to heavy items above. Outlets are eye level to skilled crawlers with perfectly sized little fingers. Consider removable caps that cover both outlets, covers with a sliding safety latch, or blank outlet covers if the outlet is not used.

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

LITTLE Journey A NOT SO

Thomas Little

Lantana Resident

Vann Little Son

by Steve Gamel

“ YOU THINK YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR LIFE IS GOING, AND THEN IT CHANGES...”

I

t’s Wednesday afternoon, and Thomas Little is sitting in his office in Flower Mound needlessly apologizing up and down for being what he considered too long-winded.

He promised he’d only share the “twominute version” of his unique journey into family law, but 30 minutes later, he was still talking.

32 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

eyed teenager who had every intention

“You think you know where your life is

kick-started a journey that included being

said. “I was studying and going to school,

of chasing that dream faster, but instead,

the 12th man on the Aggies’ football team and, after graduation, a five-year stint in

the Army, where he was commissioned as an Armor Officer.

Germany and Kosovo, and went scuba

Facing a crossroads that for the first

appointment. I don’t regret that.”

ran with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain.

a lawyer was clearly on hold.

longtime residents.

“I knew I needed help, and my mom and sister were there for us. I’d study for the

“[My plan] was to be a lawyer, but I Sponsored Content photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

www.LantanaLiving.com

Thomas moved with his son to Lantana

Little, and sister, Meredith Lowery, were

in Political Science and an MBA, but being

Thomas was 37 when he enrolled in his first year at St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio. He went to college at Texas A&M years earlier as a wide-

time in his life he was not prepared for, after graduation, where his mother, Chris

He still stayed focused and got his B.A.

Simply put, Denton County residents are putting their trust in Little Law. But because Thomas is so invested in hearing about his clients’ lives, most people haven’t had the opportunity to hear his.

She was going through so much; I hadn’t missed a single doctor’s visit or chemo

Caribbean, and the Pacific Ocean. He even

Thomas Little is clearly a guy who is finally living out a long-overdue dream.

As the owner of Little Law, Thomas, a Lantana resident, helps families navigate challenging issues most of us aren’t equipped to face alone. That includes everything from divorce to child custody, child support, property division, the complexities of adoption, and more. In a world where legal options are around every corner, Little and his staff believe that through respect, integrity, and clientfocused legal guidance, they can help you find peace you never thought possible.

a library, I was with my wife all the time.

Somewhere in the middle of all of that,

diving in the Adriatic Sea, Bali Sea, the

“Life throws twists and turns at you,” said Thomas, now the proud owner of Little Law. “You get to where you’re going and think, ‘Geez, I would never have imagined this five years ago.’ But I love what I do. I wouldn’t trade it.”

but while most law students go live in

even passed the bar yet, but I never

he traveled all over the world, including

In his defense, a winding journey like that deserved the added explanation.

going, and then it changes,” Thomas

bar while Vann was at school at North Star,

also wanted to play football and serve my country,” Thomas said. “I had that

and they’d pick him up. I’d come home

mentality where I was looking for

to play with him and feed him dinner,

adventure. When I got out of the Army,

I did consulting for six years, but it wasn’t my thing, so I began doing the, ‘What

then he’d go to bed, and I’d go back to studying,” Thomas said. “The important thing was that my son was doing fine.

do you see yourself doing in 10 years?’

Everything came back to being a lawyer.

I figured, now is my chance. I need to do

I passed the bar, and here we are.”

Fast forward to today, and the Little Family

this now.”

continues to carve its own path. Vann is

And he did. But then life added in more

his dad is also a coach. Thomas worked for

now 7 and is active in youth sports, where

of those twists and turns he mentioned

Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant in Denton

earlier – including heartbreak.

for several years where they taught him how to practice law before opening his

Thomas had met his wife, Kelsi, and

together, they had a cute-as-a-button little boy named Vann. But while Thomas was

It’s a practice he can be proud of,

still in law school, Kelsi was diagnosed

with breast cancer and died nine months later in 2014. Vann was only 2 years old,

and Thomas was suddenly a heartbroken single dad.

own practice closer to home.

and he also feels like a dad his son can be proud of.

No matter what journey life takes them on next.

940.489.8440 www.LittleFamilyLawFirm.com 2904 Corporate Cr., Ste. 123 Flower Mound, TX 75028 AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 33

Fuzzy sweaters are perfect to throw on with your favorite pair of jeans.

Cute ruffled dresses pair perfectly with knee high boots.

Animal print midi skirts are the hot trend this fall!

Easy to dress up with a cute top or down with a tied up T-shirt.

They look great with black jeans or a leather skirt.

Bell bottom jeans are back and better than ever!

2451 Lakeside Pkwy, Ste. 140 • Flower Mound, TX 75022 • 469.464.4339 • facebook.com/hellodaffodil/

34 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

Photos and Content Courtesy of Hello Daffodil

Bright colors and stripes are essential to add to your collection.

Snakeskin booties are a must-have this year.

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

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| AUGUST 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

COMMUNITY

CORNER

photo courtesy of Dawn Cobb

Your Health Is Top of Mind In Denton County

by Denton County Commissioner Precinct 4 Dianne Edmondson

W

e take your health seriously in Denton County! That has never been more evident than in the national recognition we received recently through the Denton County Health Department.

Project Public Health Ready (PPHR) recognized the Denton County Health Department (DCPH) for its ability to plan for, respond to and recover from public health emergencies, making it the sixth department in Texas and the only one in the Dallas-Fort Worth region to be recognized.

In fact, fewer than 20 percent of all national public health departments achieve PPHR recognition.

The national recognition reaffirms that DCPH has developed 14 thorough and coordinated emergency response plans for everything from mass care to environmental health. DCPH staff and volunteers are trained to protect Denton County residents in emergencies and coordinate with hospitals, local emergency management agencies and other public health departments to ensure maximum preparedness.

This designation comes after an intense evaluation by peers to assess DCPH’s ability to meet national standards for public health preparedness.

OTHER AWARDED SERVICES: COUNTY’S PUBLIC HEALTH DENTAL SERVICES CLINIC A NATIONAL MODEL The National Association of County and City Health Officials’ Model Practice Program also recognized DCPH as a 2019 National Promising Practice.

Denton County has one dentist for every 1,840 residents, according to County Health Rankings. DCPH’s public health dental services clinic provides an integrated care approach to improve the quality of life for our residents.

HEALTHY TEXAS PROGRAM PROMOTES PREVENTIVE HEALTH At Lake Dallas Middle School, students are learning how to grow vegetables and how to prepare healthy, yet tasty, meals.

Their efforts have earned the school as the First Healthy Texas Recognized School in Denton County – a designation from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Denton County.

You can find more information about the program at www.walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu.

www.LantanaLiving.com

Pictured above is Dianne Edmondson If you would like to receive a newsletter, please contact Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Edmondson at Dianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.com and ask to be placed on the email list.

OR CALL AT 972.434.3960.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 37

Ask The Expert: Dentistry

ANTI-AGING Dentistry

by Dr. Matt Artho owner of Country Lakes Family Dental CountryLakesDental.com

I

usually enjoy starting my articles with a little humor, my favorite being “fountain of youth” jokes, since they never get old. However, aging is something few easily chuckle over. We all face that crusade to maintain our youth, whether through simple diet and exercise to more cosmetic or medical means. As we embark on being more cosmetically conscience, modern dentistry, too, is evolving beyond the proverbial wooden teeth of George Washington toward an art of rejuvenation.

How exactly can dentistry help to restore

your youth? The answer is chiefly through facial esthetics. In the past, the focus

on the teeth may have led to straighter, whiter teeth, but it did not necessarily

incorporate a smile design that would benefit facial esthetics. With modern technology, we can utilize the measurements of facial proportion to not only

create smiles that fit your face, but can help create better lip and tissue

support to create a fuller

face and reduce wrinkles,

as well as produce a more

support create and aged appearance. In some instances, dentists are able to use Botox® or other non-surgical procedures within their scope to assist with facial esthetics to improve your overall smile.

Of course, along with well-shaped and straight teeth, a youthful

...can help create better lip and tissue support to create a fuller face and reduce wrinkles...

youthful positioning and design of your smile.

smile may be as simple as incorporating a whitening routine. A healthy, beautiful smile wellplanned and cared for can easily impart a more youthful look.

Of course, beyond outer appearances, the best way to achieve

In conjunction with smile design, the use of orthodontics and implant procedures

38 | LANTANA LIVING

can help restore areas where poor bone

| AUGUST 2019

that youthful essence is to always stay young at heart. Happy smiling!

A healthy, beautiful smile well-planned and cared for can easily impart a more youthful look.

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 39

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| AUGUST 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

LANTANA Resident’s

SUMMER

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

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 41

Productivity Tips To Help Make The Most of Your Day

by Steve Gamel

E

veryone is looking for helpful hacks to help them be more productive and make the most out of their day.

The only problem is that when you’re living that busy life of kids, work, school, household chores, taking care of pets, errands, etc., it can be difficult to find even the smallest shred of downtime to start implementing them.

good use. Our favorite is No. 1, but keep

Well, now that the kids are back in school, hopefully, you can find a quiet spot in the middle part of your day and put a few of these helpful productivity tips to

this activity is keeping you from starting

42 | LANTANA LIVING

| AUGUST 2019

reading to see what else is out there.

Don’t read emails or look at your phone first thing in the morning

Many of us open our eyes in the morning and immediately start answering text

messages, emails, checking social media, etc. While you think you are productive,

your day and will keep you in a constant state of catch-up. This is the time of day when our minds are clear and focused,

and there’s less noise. So put down the phone and focus on how you want to attack the day.

TO-DO LISTS ARE ALL THE RAGE Having all your tasks for the day written down is an effective productivity tool for the simple fact that it gives us structure.

Not only do we perform better and stay organized longer, but psychologically, there is a sense of accomplishment when at the end of the day, you see how much you crossed off your list.

www.LantanaLiving.com

EAT THAT FROG Instead of starting your day by knocking out a few easy tasks, start your day with the hardest or most dreaded one. If that means baking three dozen cookies for your kids’ field trip, squeezing in that overdue 6-mile run, or taking part in a lengthy conference call, get it out of the way. By waiting, it leaves a dark cloud over your head all day long.

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT We mentioned avoiding emails and texting first thing in the morning, and while that’s true, it’s still important to stay plugged in when you are on the go. There are plenty of productivity apps out there that can help you throughout the day, from checking your email on the go to digital calendars and the ability to sign and scan a document.

TAKE BREAKS As the old saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” We have so much going on in our lives, but it’s still important to take breaks to recharge the old batteries – even on our busiest days.

Stand up and walk around for 10 minutes, take a 30-minute cat nap, go for a quick workout in the middle of the day, or even call a friend. When you do, you’ll return to your busy day refreshed mentally and physically.

DELEGATE If you’re a small-business owner, it can be difficult to “let go” and delegate tasks to an employee, spouse, or someone else.

But at some point, you have to realize you can’t do it all on your own. Even if you can do it all, you won’t get it all done the same day. Start by handing off smaller tasks to someone else, and once you build more confidence in that process, delegate a few more items.

What did we leave off the list that has worked for you? Let us know.

www.LantanaLiving.com

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

Ask The Expert: Fitness

IS YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLE

HARMFUL OR HELPFUL?

W

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

hen working toward fitness goals, one important factor many overlook is the impact your friends and family have on your success.

Your social circle does play an important role in your success! It’s important to surround yourself with people who share similar goals, but this doesn’t always happen easily.

How Friends Or Family Can (Unknowingly) Hold You Back From Reaching Your Goals If you’re in a social circle that goes out a lot—eating out, drinking, etc. – those friends may not be supportive when you’re ready to call it a night for that earlymorning workout you have planned.

Plus, they may not be concerned about the calories of the food and drinks that are flowing—and therefore, not onboard when you try to make healthier choices.

There can be other problems if you’re in a relationship. If you’re on a fitness journey without your partner, this can sometimes cause friction. When you’re frequently leaving to go workout without your partner, they may become resentful of the time you’re spending at the gym instead of hanging out at home.

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| AUGUST 2019

and doubled the workout time over

When you’re getting fit and healthy, it can

working out alone.

often cause resentment from others who are going about their business-as-usual.

But this really has nothing to do with you!

•

harder than you would on your own.

health though, and we’re here to help!

The Best Results

•

exercised on a stationary bike for 30

solo exercising — is an increasingly

minutes with a friend felt calmer and

preferred form of exercise. One study

happier after the exercise was over

found that 95 percent of those who

than those who cycled alone.

•

That’s why we always offer FREE

ball tossing, partner-resisted moves,

Our Outlaw FitCamp group fitness

relays, etc.

•

have the support you need to succeed!

•

Increases Your Commitment To

A Fitness Routine For most people, staying consistent with workout

routines is difficult. But having others there waiting for you provides the

accountability you need to show up.

•

Causes You To Push Yourself Harder One study showed that working out with others improved performance

Gives You The Support Of Being

Part Of A Team A group that sweats and struggles through a workout creates a bond.

Working Out With Others Has The Following Benefits:

There are more exercises you can

when you have a partner: medicine

or the significant other of our clients.

Either of these options will ensure that you

Diversifies Your Workouts

do to keep a variety in your workout

personal training for the spouse

classes are fun and supportive.

Solo Exercise A study published in Management found that people who

in a motivational group — rather than

completed the program.

Boosts Your Mood More Than

the International Journal of Stress

Working out with someone else or

started a fitness program with friends

Wanting to keep up with those

around makes you push yourself

This is no reason not to take care of your Workout With Others For

Gives You A Competitive Edge

•

Motivates You When You Need It When you workout with the right

person or the right group, you feel uplifted and encouraged to do your best.

Don’t Go It Alone!

We are committed to helping you find the support you need. You will find support

here in reaching your goals—your success is our success! So don’t go it alone!

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AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

HELPING YOUR

Child

FIGURE OUT

A CAREER logo courtesy of Z

ack

's D og gy

Do o dy

k eboo Fac

T

by Steve Gamel

page @ ZacksDoggyD o od

here have been plenty of inspiring stories of local small-business owners in the pages of our Living magazines, but there’s no doubt that the best ones are the entrepreneurial tales of our area youth.

y

For example, there is young Zack Crabill, who started Zack’s Doggy Doody Service in Lantana to help him save money for his first car. There’s also the young men from Lake Dallas ISD who opened a lawn mowing service that gained a handful of new customers within a matter of days.

Just last month, we highlighted 5thgrader Chloe Kelley, who is the proud CEO of Soaper Girl.

After sharing those stories, and so many more just like it, it’s clear that there’s no limit to how early kids begin thinking about careers and their future. Who knows if they’ll stick with these jobs or move on to something else, but it begs the question: how can we as parents help our kids – from pre-teen to high school seniors – pick a career they’ll love?

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CHOICE

...it’s clear that there’s no limit to how early kids begin thinking about careers and their future.

HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS:

PUSH THEIR PASSION If you’re going to work for the next 20 or 30 years, you might as well

pick something you are passionate

LOOK FOR ELECTIVES AND TRADE CLASSES AT SCHOOL Signing your kids up for electives and trade classes like woodworking, theater, engineering, or plumbing provides them with a unique learning experience and the opportunity to prepare for a job directly out of high school.

about. As parents, it’s easy to suggest careers to our children that we like,

whether it’s our own career or another that carries lots of prestige. What we

should be doing is honing in on what our child’s strengths are and what they are most passionate about.

They may still become a lawyer or

police officer like you, or they could choose something else. Either way, they’ll be happy.

TAP INTO YOUR RESOURCES Speaking of chasing dreams, if your

child is passionate about a particular subject in school, maybe it would be

a good idea to leverage the contacts you’ve built over the years to expose

them to that sort of stuff outside of the classroom. They can interview these individuals and even shadow them

on the job for a day or two. And who

knows, maybe that person will become their mentor.

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ENCOURAGE SUMMER INTERNSHIPS Applying for a regular summer or after-school job has its advantages, but for the older kids out there, taking part in a paid or non-paid internship gives them hands-on experience in a career they enjoy so they can decide if it’s right for them.

HELP THEM GET THAT NEW BUSINESS VENTURE OFF THE GROUND The young men mentioned above who started a lawn care service got help from their parents, who not only bought supplies and equipment but also gave up their time to drive them to clients’ houses since none of them had a driver’s license. Make sure your kids know how much you support them and their entrepreneurial choices.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

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www.LantanaLiving.com

photo courtesy of KoonsFuller

Business Spotlight

A STRONG LEGAL REPUTATION. An Even Stronger Legal Team

N

by Steve Gamel

o matter how many times Charla Bradshaw has been seen walking into a courtroom, you can rest assured she and her clients are backed by the largest and most comprehensive family law team in the state.

For more than 25 years, Bradshaw has built a reputation of trust and superior knowledge while having her name linked to some of the more complex divorcerelated cases locally and internationally.

But when she merged her firm with KoonsFuller in 2008 and became the managing shareholder for the Denton office, she and her team did so with the promise of providing clients limitless resources.

KoonsFuller’s services include divorce, child custody, visitation, child support, paternity, marital agreements, property division, and the modification and enforcement of orders. The Denton office has five attorneys: Bradshaw, Sarah Darnell, Sean Abeyta, James Logue, and Nicole Carroll. The firm also has a full-time licensed professional counselor, Jenny Gomez, who provides litigation support for KoonsFuller clients.

“When someone hires us, they have access to all of our attorneys, of which we have every level. On top of that, there’s this amazing support staff,” Bradshaw said. “We do things differently and comprehensively, and it starts with the team approach. We have a reputation of taking remarkably good care of our clients.”

Bradshaw, a Denton native who is listed among The Best Lawyers in America in family law and family law mediation as recognized by Best Lawyers, LLC since 2011, has all but her thesis in a masters in marriage and family therapy: she went on to law school before completion and is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

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www.KoonsFuller.com Attorney Sarah Darnell has extensive litigation experience in family law. She graduated law school in 2006 and in 2012 became Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Attorney Sean Abeyta has helped many clients achieve out-of-court settlements through informal negotiations, mediation, and collaborative law. Abeyta is also Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been named to the Texas Super Lawyers list since 2014.

James Logue studied law at Texas Tech University School of Law in Lubbock and is a member of the American Bar Association, Texas Bar Association, and Texas Aggie Bar Association.

Meanwhile, Nicole Carroll has been practicing law for almost 22 years and is passionate about navigating clients through the divorce process and using creative solutions on complex issues.

“I am blessed to have such an amazing team around me,” Bradshaw said.

“And I know our clients appreciate it, too.”

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 49

Ask The Expert: Gardening

Fall

Prepping For

N

ow that school has started, and the vacationing is over, it's time to get out the “to-do list” and

focus on prepping for fall. It's a great time to get the ball rolling on that outdoor

space or landscaping project. But as you do, remember to protect yourself by keeping an eye out for quality. Ensure the estimates you are entertaining are going to be able to deliver on what's promised and not drag you through a long list of change orders and weeks of frustration!

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As a contractor, it's our job to establish ourselves in the community, build a solid reference list, and give you a level of comfort moving forward with anything we do. Make us work for it – look through

the initial pricing and into the company behind it, go through the details in comparison to the finished product you're being promised, check references, look at some jobs, and speak to your neighbors.

Make sure your contractor has an anchor in the community or gives back in some way. The only way to make our community

3 THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN HIRING A CONTRACTOR 1. Ask to meet with the job foreman, can you take me to a project he is managing?

2. What is your payment schedule?

3. Are you insured and registered here in our city?

better is to SUPPORT THOSE WHO ARE GIVING BACK TO IT! In our area, there are a ton of talented people who have built great businesses on being creative, building relationships, and doing things the right way the first time.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

Organizing :Ask The Expert

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

DECLUTTER

Your Business

T

here is a counterproductive and profit-draining habit that keeps many business professionals from achieving their fullest potential. This is the habit of tolerating clutter in their business. Clutter stifles creativity, energy, effective decision-making, and growth.

Want to level-up? Then start decluttering! As a professional

office and your mind for brilliant, future projects you haven’t even been able to

organizer and business owner, I have

dream of yet.

figured out how to open up new

More importantly, give yourself permission

possibilities, and increase productivity and profitability through decluttering.

Declutter your physical workspace.

Start with the obvious; the physical

clutter you can see and touch. Respect yourself, your business, and your clients enough to have a clutter-free workspace.

Clear off your desk, clean out your filing cabinets, throw away broken furniture, and cull through the excessive amount of office supplies.

Starting with physical clutter simply gets you in the right mindset to deal with the trickier clutter: unnecessary projects,

to let go of unfinished projects that you

know are never going to be completed.

represent the current focus of your business. This will open up space in your www.LantanaLiving.com

on all your devices while you are

working. Worry about what’s going on with you right now, not other people.

Declutter negative people and upgrade your tribe. Jim Rohn says, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” So if your ratio of

negative friends is too high, it’s time to

upgrade. I know this sounds harsh, but it’s what happy, successful people do.

Dealing with negative family members is more sensitive. Start by simply not

discussing work with family members who have negative comments about your business.

matches your goals and values is NOT a failure. It means you have a good

understanding of your business and your clients.

Declutter information overload.

It is completely counterproductive

(and exhausting) keeping up with all the irrelevant information that is constantly thrown at us on a minute-by-minute

basis. Be proactive in blocking out all the unwanted chatter.

•

You can quickly declutter your inbox by unsubscribing from solicitation

emails at unroll.me. If you don’t do

and the wrong clients. old, completed projects that no longer

Turn off all social media notifications

Not completing a project that no longer

information overload, negative people, Declutter your projects. Put away

•

anything else, do this.

•

Declutter your clients. This is HARD, but it may be the best decision you make. If there are struggles and

headaches, it can be a good move to

fire a client. You should also turn down new clients/jobs that don’t match your

It’s also a great idea to turn your

business values. Make sure it’s a good fit.

the middle of a big project. Most texts

will open up more opportunities for you

phone off if you are in a meeting or in

Turning down work sounds crazy, but it

or calls are not emergencies.

to work with your ideal clients.

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 51

Labor Day WEEKEND G E T A W A Y S

haunted by mountain spirits. Not far from Enchanted Rock is Six-Mile Light where unknown energies and ghostly lights join together.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

1629 Park Rd. 59 • Glen Rose, TX 76043 2 hours

A long trip to the past, but a short drive dinosaurs roamed leaving footprints in

the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean.

Discover dinosaur tracks, camp, hike,

o you long for a life less ordinary? Take a chance this Labor Day weekend and buckle up for a wild family trip. Below are some great quick getaways you and your family will enjoy.

Vacation

Gettin’ Batty in Austin 3 hours 20 mins Witness the great bat exodus on the Congress Avenue Bridge. These furry, winged critters are very punctual, emerging from the bridge at almost the exact same time – just before sundown.

Millions of shadowy flashes fly into the impending twilight, and they’re always back at the bridge by morning resting up for the following night’s performance.

Roa Trip d !

s rie Family Memo 52 | LANTANA LIVING

Indians believed the “talking” rock was

from Ft. Worth dwells a place where

by Leanne Yocum

D

and towering more than 400 feet high.

Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum 1800 Congress Ave. • Austin, TX 78701 3 hours 20 mins One of Austin’s jewels, the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, tells ‘the Story of Texas.’ Intriguing exhibitions and exciting activities will definitely inspire thought-provoking conversations with teachers and classmates alike.

Enchanted Rock 16710 Ranch Rd. 965 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 5 hours 15 mins On this ancient ground sits a massive pink, granite batholith formed over one billion years ago. It is one of the oldest exposed rocks in the world, covering 640 acres

| AUGUST 2019

mountain bike, swim, and much more!

Next to the park is Creation Evidence

Museum, which presents a biblical model of the world’s development showcasing the lifework of the Reverend Dr. Carl Baugh’s “creation of science.”

Waco, TX

2 hours 20 mins The quaint, quirky town of Waco boasts a myriad of whimsical attractions and

guaranteed fun. Visit Magnolia Market at

The Silos and the enchanting Cottonland Castle. Saddle up and venture on

horseback through Scenic Texas Ranch.

Tour the renowned Dr. Pepper Museum

or have a wild safari at the Cameron Zoo.

Unearth hidden stairs, turret-like walls and moat-like pools rumored to emanate a

harrowing stench from a legendary place called Witches Castle of Cameron Park.

Broken Bow, OK 3 hours 8 mins

A road trip family favorite! Discover epic ziplining adventures or power ATVs

through rugged mountains. Hike arduous trails that wind through blissful waterfalls and majestic mountains or raft down riproaring rivers. A vacation doesn’t need to be pricey in order to make a huge

impact on children. A family road trip is a time-honored tradition, one marked

with smiles and silliness, togetherness

and exploration. It’s a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

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FORMER GUYER STAR

Jalen Wilson SWITCHES TO KANSAS

by Steve Gamel

F

ormer Guyer star Jalen Wilson

“I’m very excited about Jalen’s

Coles, and others, Wilson helped the

back in November when he signed

Self was quoted as saying in the Denton

finals in his final two seasons. Including

appeared to be on cloud nine

his national letter of intent to play basketball at Michigan.

He had just narrowed

down his college choices

from six schools to one by picking the Wolverines,

and in doing so became one of the program’s

highest-rated commits.

Well, so much for that.

commitment to us,” Kansas coach Bill Record-Chronicle article on June 12.

KANSAS FAN FOR THE VAST MAJORITY

“He’s been a Kansas fan for the vast majority of his young life and is certainly a guy who

is used to winning after being a part of a great high school

program at John H. Guyer High School. He will bring great size, skill and versatility playing

both as a big and a small, but

Following the surprise departure of

more importantly he’ll bring

to become the coach of the Cleveland

Wilson averaged just more than 18 points

Michigan coach John Beilein, who left

Cavaliers, Wilson decided Michigan was no longer the right fit and signed with Kansas.

per game and 7.5 rebounds in his final

According to the Denton Record-

44 player in 247Sports’ class

Beilein’s decision to leave. He requested

He was instrumental in

Chronicle, Wilson felt blindsided by

his release from Michigan in May and by June had signed a new national letter of intent with the Jayhawks.

of 2019 rankings.

creating a winning culture for a Guyer basketball

program that has quickly

Incidentally, Kansas was one of the in November.

De’Vion Harmon (Oklahoma), JaKobe

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popping 125-16 since 2016.

Now that Wilson is a Jayhawk, the DRC’s article also pointed out that this means he’ll match up against Harmon and

the Sooners at least twice next season

since both are in the Big 12. Kansas and

Oklahoma split last year’s series. Kansas will be looking for its first national title since 2008.

to sign Jalen the first time around

when he committed to Michigan,”

KANSAS WAS ONE OF THE TOP 6 SCHOOLS

become one of the more

Top 6 schools on Wilson’s radar back

this past season, the Wildcats are an eye-

“We missed out on the opportunity

incredible toughness.”

year at Guyer and is the No.

Wildcats advance to back-to-back regional

dominant teams in Class 6A. Alongside

Self said in the DRC article.

“He’d been up here to

campus and was a guy we

were very interested in, but he made another decision.

When coach [John] Beilein left for the NBA and they

asked for the release, that

opened up the opportunity

for us to try again and to get it right, even though it was the second time around.”

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 55

DA YS

L A N O I NAT

by Steve Gamel

I

t seems like there’s a national day for everything these days. For example, if

NATIONAL KISS AND MAKE UP DAY August 25

you want to celebrate National Hugging

Day, you can do that in January, same with

This fun day reminds people all

National Compliment Day and Spouses Day. If you’re a fan of erasers, there’s a National Rubber Eraser Day in April and even a National Yo-Yo Day in June.

The list could go on and on, but in the interest of our current issue, your friends

NATIONAL TOOTH FAIRY DAY August 22 According to nationalcalendar.com, this fun

over the world to stop their bickering, which most of the time is over petty stuff we can all look back on and laugh about later. We all

day was celebrated on February 28 and

have a fight with a

now again in August. You can celebrate

loved one at some

it on social media with a picture of

point, so be sure to say

the more interesting National Days for

a toothless grin and the hashtag

your sorry and cap it off with

August and September.

#NationalToothFairyDay.

a sweet kiss.

here at Murray Media scoured the Internet and came up with a short list of

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| AUGUST 2019

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NATIONAL JUST BECAUSE DAY August 27

NATIONAL DOUBLE CHEESEBURGER DAY September 15

This is pretty cool because we can basically celebrate anything we want and in

Don’t just eat any

any way we want – JUST

cheeseburger, go

BECAUSE. Give everyone in

all out with a thick, juicy double-

the elevator a hug, surprise

patty monster with everything on

your wife with flowers, go to

it. Just make sure you wipe off your

every fast food restaurant in Denton County.

fingers before attempting to post pics on social media. Incidentally, National NATIONAL LAZY MOM’S DAY September 6

Cheeseburger Day is celebrated a few days later on September 18.

Heck yeah! Mom’s deserve more lazy NATIONAL TRAIL MIX DAY August 31 Usually, you don’t see trail mix unless you’re at a party with lots of finger foods and snacks, so show it some love on

days. This day is always celebrated on the first Friday in September, and it’s a great opportunity to skip the laundry, dishes, or even going to work if you so desire. Take a break, and make dad do it!

NATIONAL TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY September 19 Yes! Who’s up for a few “Ahoy, Marie”

National Trail Mix Day by creating your

and “Aye, Aye, Capt’n”

own special

to fill their day? We

version and

know a few people

share with

around our office here

friends at

NATIONAL VIDEO GAMES DAY September 12

the office.

And in one loud voice, every teenager in Denton County rejoiced! The best way to

at Murray Media who would jump all over this in a heartbeat – costumes included.

celebrate is to grab all the snacks you can, invite all your friends over, and cobble together a mega marathon gaming session. Don’t forget to mix NATIONAL CHEESE PIZZA DAY September 5 Cheese pizza gets a bad

in some old retro games along with the newer stuff to make it an amazing experience for everyone.

NATIONAL ONE-HIT WONDER DAY September 25 Bring back memories of your favorite songs by artists who made it big because of

rap sometimes for being so boring in

that one song – and one

comparison to pepperoni pizza, pineapple

song only. Maybe some

pizza, or a pie with the works. From what

Milli Vanilli, Blind Mellon’s

we can tell, though, it’s the only one with

No Rain, or even Turning

its own national day.

Japanese by The Vapors.

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AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 57

91

st

August 16 - 24, 2019 • 10:00am - 11:30pm 2217 N. Carroll Blvd. • Denton, TX 76201 Rodeo • Carnival • Contests • Shows • Livestock • Music

PARADE: August 17 | 10am - 12pm The parade will have a cash contest in five categories (Riding Club, Commercial, Youth, Western Wagon, Classic Car) going. First place gets $100, second place gets $50 and best over all wins $250.

It starts at Denton High School and goes towards downtown circling its way back to the high school.

COOKING CONTEST: August 17 - 18 For the cooking contests there are Children (ages 6 to 11), Junior (ages 12 to 17) and Adults (ages 18 and up) .

Each of these have the categories: cake, bread, cookie and candy baking.

PRCA RODEO: August 16 - 18 | 7:30 - 9:30pm There will be contests with bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, cafe roping, calf scramble, team roping, barrel racing and bull riding.

SWIFTY SWINE SWIMMING AND RACING PIGS: August 16 - 24 Mon to Fri: 6pm & 8pm Sat & Sun: 2:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm & 8:30pm. Watch pigs run as fast as they can to get to the other side where an Oreo is waiting for them to eat.

BULL BLOW OUT: August 22 - 24 | 7:30 - 9:30pm The Bull Blow Out is one of the most popular events during the North Texas Fair and Rodeo. It’s all about Cowboys riding bulls.

MUSIC: Caudia Hoyser August 17 | 6pm & 11pm Mike and the Moonpies August 23 | 11pm Jimmy Buffet August 24 | 6pm & 11pm

These are only some of the many events that are going on. For a list of more events please visit www.ntfair.com/events.

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TICKETS: Adults Mon - Thurs | $15 Adults Fri - Sun | $20 Adults Sat - Sun Before 6pm $15 (Gate Only) 4-Day Ticket | $60 Season Pass | $120 Senior/Military Adults | $14 (ID Needed, Gate Only) Teacher | $5 off (ID Needed, Gate Only) Children 7 - 12 | $5 (Any Day) Children 6 and under FREE (Any Day) FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.ntfair.com 940-387-2632 info@ntfair.com

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SHERIFF ’S

CORNER T

with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

he Denton County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone to be extra cautious as the start of the

new school year approaches. Here are a few tips for drivers as well as students: While Driving in School Zones • •

•

Remember, traffic fines double in school zones.

• • •

Be on the lookout for students who may be crossing the street or walking between vehicles near schools.

school zones and violators will be

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Watch for students gathering at bus stops.

Cell phones are banned in active fined up to $200.

Drop off and pick up your children in

•

•

Obey traffic rules, signs and signals.

Only cross at intersections and designated crosswalks.

•

Only walk on sidewalks, whenever they are available.

•

Look for traffic when stepping off of a bus or from behind parked cars.

•

Never assume drivers see you, make eye contact before crossing the street.

•

Obey crossing guards.

•

Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.

•

When walking, do not be distracted by electronic devices such as

the school’s designated areas.

Remain alert at all times.

Do not use your cell phones.

Obey school zone speed limits.

Students Walking or Biking to School:

cell phones.

•

Obey all traffic rules, signs and signals.

940.349.1600 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 DENTON, TX 76205

DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

AUGUST 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 61

Jalapeño

INGREDIENTS: • 1 (32oz.) Bag Frozen Tater Tots • 2 (8oz. each) Packages of Cream Cheese

TAT E R T O T C A S SEROLE

• 1 Cup (8oz.) of Sour Cream • 6 Cups Mexican Style Shredded Cheese • 3 (3oz. each) Bags of Bacon Bits • 6-8 Medium Sized Jalapeños • 2/3 Cup Green Onion

DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. Evenly spread bag of tater tots across a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Put in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. This will be your first layer.

3. Chop 2/3 of a cup of jalapeños and make sure to remove the seeds. There will be jalapeños left over.

4. Chop up the green onions and put 1/3 of a cup aside.

5. In a mixing bowl combine the cream cheese, sour cream,

2 (3oz. each) bags of bacon bits, 2/3 cup of jalapeños and 1/3 cup of green onion and mix them together. This will be your cream spread.

6. After the tater tots are done cooking take the cream spread and evenly spread it over the tater tots to create your second layer.

For more heat to this dish add chopped pickled jalapeños and add the juice to the cream spread.

Also, you can add pickled jalapeños on the very top of the casserole.

For less spice reduce the jalapeños from 1/2 to 1/3 of a cup in the cream spread and do not add them to the top.

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| AUGUST 2019

7. Next spread the Mexican Style Shredded Cheese across the top making the third layer.

8. Now spread the 1 (3oz.) bag of bacon bits and the 1/3 cup of green onions over the cheese evenly. This will make the fourth layer.

9. Cut slices of the left over jalapeño and lay them down over the top.

10. Put the dish back in the oven for 20 minutes.