Lantana Living Magazine December 2017

DECEMBER 2017 Coping With The

HOLIDAYS

Winter Break FAMILY FUN Modern Day

CINDERELLA

Chalk It

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

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 3

Harpool Presents

The Lion King Jr.

H

arpool Middle School students brought the Lion King, Jr. to life November 16-18 delighting audiences for several performances, both evening and matinee, including in-school performances for 5th graders in all elementary feeder schools.

Approximately 70 Harpool students made this production an incredible success.

photography by Raul Cevallos

4 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

LantanaLiving.com

So Much

Wasted TIME

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Savannah Halfmann

Staff Writer

Susan Neuhalfen

Contributor Steve Gamel

Advertising

Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock

Photography

Photography by Guy T 469.500.5657 www.whatsthatguysname.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: 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. © 2017 Murray Media Group

I

know. You’re expecting me to give you all kinds of gooey language about how the holidays are all about giving and

you should go volunteer your time here and give money there, etc.

That’s all fine and well, but I actually have a different message for you:

If you’re going to give yourself or someone you love a present, give them the gift of time. Tell your spouse to take the day to him or herself and you’ll take the kids. Then you take some time to yourself. Take some time together without kids. Take your elderly parent to

Unplug, unwind and give the gift of time.

lunch. Take your time.

We spend so much of our time in a

We take time every night to recharge our

whirlwind of activity, that when we do

have time off, we usually spend it figuring out which room in the house we’re going to clean or what project we’re going to tackle…because we have time.

to recharge ourselves. You’d be amazed how much of a better parent, spouse and co-worker you would be if you’d take the time to charge your own batteries.

I don’t know about you, but my best

holiday memories didn’t have anything to do with presents. They had to do

Stop feeling like you have to keep people entertained this holiday season. Our best memories are not organized field trips.

with time. Spending time with my

relatives when they came over for dinner.

Spending an evening playing games

with my siblings. Spending the afternoon sliding down a snowy hill with my friends with nothing but a garbage bag.

electronics, but we don’t take the time

I’m told that David Cassidy’s last words were “…so much wasted time.” Don’t let them be yours.

Take your time and enjoy the holidays.

Sincerely Susan Neuhalfen

Writer and Editor for Argyle Living, Lantana Living and Lake Cities Living Susan@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 Ex. 101 6 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

32

On the Cover is Dr. Robert Borkowski, owner of Renown Orthodontics.

FEATURED:

Chalk it Up to Experience

42 EDITORS PICK:

Becoming Judy Garland

YOURSELF

26 Guyer Football Season Recap

46 Gardening with Complete Solutions

08 Coping with the Holidays

28 Guyer Volleyball All-District

10 Modern Day Cinderella

30 Counseling with Acorn Counseling

48 Sadie’s Sleigh

13 The Secret Weight Loss Program

34 Winter Break Family Fun

14 Dentistry with Dr. Matt

36 College Prep with Vanguard

16 Fitness with Jesse James Fit

37 Allergic Rhinitis & Vitamin D

60 What is a Quarter Auction?

18 Nutrition with Savory Bistro

38 Choose Your Words Wisely

20 Makeover with Cloud 9 Salon

62 Leftover Cranberry Sauce Recipes

40 North Texas Soccer

FAMILY 24 Inside Community 25 Inside Education

LIFESTYLE 42 Becoming Judy Garland 44 Working Together to Serve a Need

50 Christmas Eve Services 56 Gifts from the Heart

Photos from Lantana 04 Lion King Jr. 27 You Submit We Print DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 7

Coping

Yourself

Holidays with the

by Susan Neuhalfen & Christy Graham, Acorn Counseling Services

‘

T

is the season for present giving, New Year’s resolutions, eating, parties and, of course, family. What should be one big happy couple of weeks can become very stressful. Lantana Living sat down with Christy Graham, head cheerleader at Acorn Counseling Education Services in Corinth by Oakmont to discuss coping with the holidays.

Here are some questions we hear frequently at Acorn:

Third, think realistically about the type of gathering and whether you

How do I protect my kids [from

and your family can thrive there. You

statements] while still connecting

shorter amount of time or connect

negative relative behavior/

can always plan to attend but stay a

with my family?

with specific family later.

Wow, this is a complicated maneuver,

My Dad died this year. Thinking

even when you have a great family!

Our families are always the first to hug us and then tell us what we

about the holiday reminds me of

him and its like he just died today.

are doing wrong. First, talk with

Get support. Not everyone

for behavior and short term, clear

for you, but those that do understand

your children about expectations

understands how difficult this time is

consequences for misbehavior.

are out there.

Next, have a code red. Give your kids a signal to tell you they need to talk

Start a new tradition that honors your

with you about something and tell

Dad. Rituals and traditions help us to

injury either physical or emotional,

Be present and aware of your

emotions. You don’t have to be over it or get through it. Sometimes, you just have to take a break from the

celebrations and honor your Dad by missing him.

Do beware of negative coping skills

like isolation and drinking and make

plans to avoid problematic behaviors.

There is one member of our family,

and I won’t mention her name, that I just can’t stand.

First, remember that your family

includes a lot of people. Spending

time talking with those we love and who love us makes life sparkle! So

them the kinds of things to use it for:

work through our life story by adding

don’t isolate yourself from the family.

to our lives and not subtracting

feelings of being unsafe, etc.

from them.

Second, set clear boundaries for

yourself and for the family. If open

Get support.

Not everyone understands how difficult this time is for you, but those that do understand are out there.

conflict occurs, be clear about the

boundary that was crossed and then excuse yourself to the next room or simply leave.

Third, be honest with yourself about what actually happens. If there is something you can do to lessen the conflict and still feel honest, do that. Sometimes, it really is as simple as “if you have

nothing good to say, say nothing

at all”. Go with the

on the positive things

people that are there and your enjoyment of the event will go way up.

Start by asking what the season actually

Christmas that my phone’s screen

are religious, the season has a special

so often, trying to plan the ‘perfect’

protector has worn out. Help! I’ve

got to give my family ‘the best’!

No, you don’t. No one is perfect

and having a perfect holiday

Start by asking what the season actually means to you.

idea that you will focus happening and the positive

I’ve been on Facebook and Pinterest

season is impossible

and causes so much

stress, you can’t even connect. Research

shows, when you are

stressed, you connect

less, remember less,

and are less attuned

to the needs of others

around you. So calm down!

Plan the ‘Good Enough Christmas’

that has room for the things that everyone loves-including you!

means to you. For those of us who meaning that can get lost in the midst of the chaos of presents and rush. For others of us, the time has a special feel and a wonderful focus on relationships and family. Find the 2 or 3 most meaningful things and do those well. Then you are free to explore and be present at all the serendipitous wonderful memory making opportunities that abound at this time of year.

End by being completely present with the relationships around you. Finding time to connect can be difficult, but face-toface eye contact time fills your emotional bucket and allows you to weather the real crises in life.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 9

Yourself

photos courtesy of KelseyMakie.com

W

hen you talk about teachers that lead by example, you’re talking about Kelsey Macke. The Harpool Middle School 7th grade English teacher has shown herself to be a great example to her students by writing a novel that is not only timely to the teenagers of today, it’s much more than just a page turning story.

Damsel Distressed is a young adult

of many people that Mrs. Macke has

Read the reviews on Amazon, Good Reads

old living with clinical depression. After

family, students, people she’s worked with

relate to the character and are intrigued

fiction novel about Imogen, a 17 year-

being diagnosed at the age of 12, she is

simply trying to function when she suffers a relapse. In many ways, this is a modern retelling of Cinderella. After

encountered in her life including friends, and even herself.

“We all have similarities to Imogen,” said

Mrs. Macke. “It’s important for

and so many more. People love the book, by the music. Critics love it as well,

awarding Damsel Distressed the Gold

Medal Winner of the 2014 Moonbeam

Children’s Book Award for YA (General).

her mother’s death she’s in

young people to understand her story.”

“I’ve had dozens of young people from

her father remarries, her evil

As if that isn’t enough to

helped them feel like they’re not alone,”

and out of therapy and when stepsister Ella moves in.

entice a reader, there is

“It’s a modern take on

an element of creativity to

stepsister’s perspective,”

unique. Macke

“Except this time Cinderella

in an Indy rock band called

trying to make her stepsister’s

there are illustrations in the

Cinderella from the

this story that makes it truly

explains Mrs. Macke.

and her husband, Daron, are

is the evil, manipulative one,

Wedding Day Rain. Where

life miserable.”

book, there is a QR code to

all over the country tell me that the book said Mrs. Macke. “Imogen is experiencing universal feelings that all of us can relate to at one point or another.“

This book is about finding hope in

hopelessness and moving forward. Macke feels it has resonated with others because being in pain is something that everyone can relate to.

play the music that goes with

“Young people experience these types of

education in emotional and

released the CD “Imogen

day-to-day basis whether adults want to

she wanted to write a story that connects

the book was released. The

book empowers those who are hurting

Mrs. Macke is a mental health advocate with a Master’s of

that part of the book. They

difficult and complicated situations on a

behavior disorders. She said

Unlocked” at the same time

believe it or not,” said Mrs. Macke. “This

with young people that go through

songs represent certain themes in the

to get the help they need and those who

understand their trials. Within the story

not only what Imogen is pondering but

Damsel Distressed is available on

dark times. Imogen is a compilation

thinking as well.

these sort of difficulties and help others

book, helping the reader to understand

there is beauty and humor, even in the

what she thinks those around her are

10 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

don’t to better understand the struggles.”

Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com and damseldistressed.com.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

12 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

THE WEIGHT LOSS SECRET FOR BABY BOOMERS THAT

IS GOING TO HAVE THEM LOOKING GREAT AFTER CHRISTMAS

C

hristmas is right around the corner.

You’re about to see friends and family and they haven’t seen you in some time. You’re a bit self-conscious because you’ve gained some weight. Your life has been so hectic that the words diet and exercise sound like Greek!

This is what happens to everyone during the holidays. The next thing you know you’re making a New Year’s Resolution that this year is going to be different. Here is my question for you: Is it really going to be different? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s not! So what do you do?

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If you want to be like Peggy and finally lose that stubborn weight here is what we are looking for:

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DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 13

Yourself | Dentistry

Giving the Gift

of a Smile I

f you are one of the lucky ones, or maybe just consistently prepared, you were able to complete your Christmas

gift shopping on time or even ahead of time. It’s that annual exercise of meticulously browsing through the online depositories and store aisles of toys, tools, and treasures for that perfectly tailored gift that yields the anxiously awaited smile of our loved one. I propose that this year, consider giving your loved ones, just that: the gift of a smile.

that encourage good oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes make easy stocking stuffers, as well as travel size items like

toothpaste, floss, or mouthwash. You may be able to even add an over-the-counter whitening kit.

Though it may not appear as the most

“Giving a healthy smile is a gift with notable benefits and lasting longevity.�

The significance of the gift of a smile is easily apparent. There are a variety of articles and studies that show how important a smile is with regard to first impressions, job interviews, and social relations. Giving a healthy smile is a gift with notable benefits and lasting longevity. Here are some ideas: 14 | LANTANA LIVING

The easiest way to start is with products

| DECEMBER 2017

exciting present, if your family is out of the routine of regular

dental appointments, get them scheduled. You may even

consider coupling a cleaning

dental implants, or even routine dental treatment. Whatever the reason for the delay, having a healthy, beautiful and fully restored smile for five to ten to twenty years is not only worth it, but may be even long enough to outlast most appliances or electronics these days. Take the time to consider giving yourself or your loved one this long awaited dental care.

Of course, there are many ways to give the gift of a smile. Sharing your time,

appointment with a session of

happiness, and charity with those you love

member has expressed a desire

on the face of others, and maybe even

dental whitening. If your family for orthodontic care, start with

a consult. This is a perfect time to set up care that has a potential for a lifelong

impact. Hopefully, your recipients will appreciate your care for their dental health.

I, myself, often witness patients putting off either desired or necessary dental

care or dental treatment, like Invisalign,

and those in need will always put a smile your own.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and happy smiling!

by Dr. Matt who is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental www.CountryLakesDental.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

Yourself | Fitness

What Drives Someone

TO CHANGE?

S

o many people say that they want to change. They say they want results, a different body, or to be healthier. People say they want to wear the pants that have been hanging in their closet for 6 years, be able to buy clothes and actually feel good wearing them...but how many people actually change?

In all, very few actually do. Instead, they wait. They procrastinate. They excuse themselves out of what they want and instead embrace that feeling...we all know it...it’s that feeling like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket, near a cozy fire on a cold day...

THEY GET COMFORTABLE. Change, progress, forward motion occurs not when we are comfortable but when we are UN-comfortable. When we no longer excuse our actions as “just okay” and begin down a path of accountability that acknowledges our current state but calls us to make a change.

It’s that call - that reason that is so important.

Even when some people get uncomfortable, it only lasts a short period of time. We’ve been programmed from a very early age to revert back to habits that we’ve been taught or created, whether good or bad.

Action is the ultimate key to creating a successful habit. Not action when it’s convenient or when it works into your schedule but action in spite of the excuses

that can hamper an otherwise amazing

transformation. The drive and discipline needed to make these changes occur

comes from within you. It’s not an exterior force that drives your motivation; it’s the reason - the call - that guides you.

Find your reason, and remind yourself of that daily. Take action daily. Stop

making excuses. Create a goal, put a plan together and execute.

THIS ISN’T EASY, BUT IT’S WORTH IT. Accomplishing what you set out to do

stirs a beast within us that cannot be

stopped. Don’t let your past stop you

today. Go out and get what you want,

create the life, the body and the world

you want, by taking action daily through motivation created by your reason.

Do it now. If you don’t, tomorrow will

come and you will be exactly where you are today. To create a better you takes

action, daily. Go ahead, wait one more

day...which then becomes a month, a year and so on. Look back and tell me how

many of those days you waited, that you actually WASTED. Make this New Year

different than the others. Make this the

year you commit and see through to the goals you’ve been wishing for, but this time you work to achieve.

by Jesse J. Leyva, Owner of Jesse James Fit, Outlaw Bootcamp & Outlaw Fitcamp www.JesseJamesFit.com • www.OutlawBootcamp.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

Yourself | Nutrition

Soups Save the Season Dear Annette:

Winter months are so hectic with holiday events and parties for my family. Is there an easy way to get through the season of winter and try to keep our immune systems from running down leaving us vulnerable to colds and flus?

Dear Reader:

It is true that when we get tired from a busy schedule our immune systems often pays the price. I have a little trick that works so well and has not failed me for years: EAT SOUP. Broths with ginger, garlic and herbs all are immune boosters. The best thing to do to boost your immune system during cold and flu season is to get more vegetables into your diet. The phytonutrients that keep the cold away are all in our vegetables. Making your own soup from a bone broth is always the best. Make big batches and freeze servings to have on hand for nights you do not want to cook. I am including one of my favorite easy soup recipes for you to try.

Robust Chicken Soup MAKES 6 SERVINGS • PREP TIME: 20 minutes • COOK TIME: 25 minutes

I’m not sure what I should call this dish. It’s

3/4 teaspoon chopped fresh sage, or 1/4 teaspoon dried

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, or 1/4 teaspoon dried

more than a soup, but not quite a stew.

6 cups Old-Fashioned Chicken

but just wait till “stoup” makes its way into

bought organic stock

Maybe it’s a stoup (you’re laughing now, the Oxford English Dictionary). Well, no matter what you call it, I think you’ll find

yourself singing its praises often, as this is really a hearty, yummy recipe.

2 cups cooked cannellini beans, or 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed

Freshly squeezed lemon juice Sea salt 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 yellow onion, finely diced 2 fennel bulbs, finely diced 2 large carrots, peeled and finely diced 4 stalks celery, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 18 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

Stock or Magic Mineral Broth , or store2 cups sliced cooked organic chicken 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 cups arugula leaves 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

to the pot, and cook until the liquid is

reduced by half. Add the remaining 5

1/2 cups of stock, the beans, bring to a boil over medium heat, then lower the

heat and simmer until the vegetables are

tender, about 8 minutes. Stir in the cooked chicken, zest, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, arugula, parsley, basil, and another 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and serve right away.

Variation: Spinach or kale cut into bite-size pieces can be substituted for the arugula.

If using raw chicken (pieces), add with the beans and vegetables and simmer until

2 tablespoons finely chopped basil

cooked through.

In a bowl, stir together the beans with a

Reprinted with permission from The

Set aside. Heat the olive oil in a soup pot

2015 by Rebecca Katz with Mat Edelson,

fennel, carrots, celery, and 1/4 teaspoon

Publishing Group, Berkeley, CA.

spritz of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.

Healthy Mind Cookbook Copyright ©

over medium heat, then add the onion,

Ten Speed Press, a division of the Crown

of salt, and sauté until golden, about

15 minutes. Stir in the garlic, sage, and thyme and cook for another minute.

Pour in 1/2 cup of the stock to deglaze

the pot, stirring to loosen any bits stuck

Sincerely, Annette Doody Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

www.thesavoryteam.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 19

Yourself | Makeover

MAKEOVER OF THE MONTH

JENTRI CARTER

I

f anyone deserves a makeover, it’s Jentri Carter. This single mother of two toddlers has had a trying 2017. Within months of her divorce, she had a double mastectomy, and is only now recovering after plastic and reconstructive surgery. Having major surgery while taking care of her kids has taken a toll on her work life and personal life. The reduction in hours has been difficult financially, but she is doing everything to make sure her bills are paid and her children are well cared for. Luckily, the staff at Cloud 9 was ready to give her a much-needed break.

Hair and Makeup by Hannah Hannah really kept things simple by cutting about an inch off, giving her some fun layers and changing the tone of her hair to a nice, icy blonde. Jentri’s natural beauty made makeup very simple as well. Hannah added some color to her eyes with a dark brown cut crease and a bright white lid color.

Hair Removal by Lauren Reyes Lauren performed an eyebrow wax and Brazilian wax. While many women find the Brazilian wax painful, Lauren is the queen of making it simple and relatively pain free.

20 | LANTANA LIVING

AFTER | DECEMBER 2017

214.415.4806 www.cloud9salon.com Want to be the next Makeover?

Email cloud9salon@cloud9salon.com and tell us why you deserve it!

photography by Jene’s Lens Photographs

BEFORE

Makeover and clothes provided by

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 21

22 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 23

KNOW

Be in the

Family

INSIDE COMMUNITY

TOASTMASTERS MEETING If one of your goals in the New Year is to become more comfortable speaking in front of a group and being challenged on your feet, come visit the Flower Mound Toastmasters Club. They meet the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Trietsch United Methodist Church, 6101 Morris Road, Room 120. For more information, call 972-4674020 or go to flowermoundtoastmastersorg.toastmastersclubs.org.

largest service organizations. The Flower Mound New Century Lions have just joined more than 47,000 Lions Clubs across the globe and are looking for new members who want to help, make a difference and have fun. If you are interested in joining, contact Albert McDaniel at 972-906-7440.

MONEY RAISED FOR TCAP

YouTube sensation Boho Beautiful visited Pure Synergy and Wellness Studio for a yoga session benefitting TCAP (Texas Coalition for Animal Protection). Over $400 was raised at the benefit which included an intimate yoga class lead by Juliana Semenova. TCAP provides low cost spay and neuter as well as other services to those who can’t afford it in an effort to control animal overpopulation in Denton County.

SCRAP’S IN On January 2-3 from 9am until 4pm, Kids ages 6-12 play games, try experiments, and make quality, useful projects with discarded materials. School’s Out, SCRAP‘s In is centered on themes of creative reuse and making the most of your materials. This is for kids who love inventing, making, planning, and bringing their creative ideas to life. Register at scrapdenton.org.

photo courtesy of www.lionsclubs.org

NEW LIONS CLUB

Flower Mound is the newest member of the one of the world’s oldest and

INSIDE EDUCATION FUN RUN CHAIR NEEDED E.P. Rayzor PTA is looking for a new Fun Run Chair. This person would plan and coordinate the event which happens during field day on April 27 of next year. Duties include attending meetings, securing sponsors and donations and recruiting two other committee members to plan Spirit Week and the Pep Rally. If you’re interested, please contact Jennifer Clark at president@eprayzorpta.org.

GUYER ALL-REGION BAND Guyer High School had ten students named to the TMEA Region 2 All-Region band, competing against musicians from other 5A and 6A schools from Denton, Lake Dallas, Lewisville, and Northwest ISD. Jordan Meza (euphonium) and Brent Jackson (trumpet) also advanced to the TMEA Area A auditions for a chance to make the Texas All-State Band. The All-Region Band Concert is scheduled for January 20 at Denton High School.

DENTON ISD EVENTS “Donuts with Dad” Tuesday, January 9th at 7-7:30am Blanton Elementary Martin Luther King Jr. Day Monday, January 15th School Holiday "Reflections Contest Ceremony" Thursday, January 18th at 6-7pm Adkins Elementary

LOOKING FOR BOOKS The Harpool Middle School Builders Club is collecting new and gently used books for the Tiny Mobile Libraries that the Kiwanis Club takes out into our communities. They are looking for children’s, young adult, and adult books. Please turn in any donations to

HARPOOL SPELLING BEE RESULTS Harpool Middle School’s school-wide Spelling Bee was held on December 5.

Congratulations to the following students:

"DISD Band All-District Concert" Saturday, January 20th Concert at 7pm Denton High School

Champion: Julia Germany 2nd place: Audrey Lee 3rd place: Alora Aldridge

Builders Club Advisory teachers. They will be collecting now through January.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 25

Family

the

by Steve Gamel

G

uyer’s playoff success in football has been well documented over the years. Not only have the

Wildcats won two state titles, but they regularly make deep playoff runs.

And the best part is that they’ve been able to maintain that success across multiple classifications.

Needless to say, it’s a shocker when Guyer doesn’t have playoff success.

That’s what happened last month when Guyer lost to Trophy Club Byron Nelson, 28-24, in the first round of the Class 6A

playoffs. The Wildcats had a chance to

all year and finished his first year with the

but needed to show it could pass the ball

and 25 touchdowns. He was also a great

of their last six regular-season games,

consistently if it wanted to rattle off one of its trademark deep playoff runs.

touchdown was

negated by a penalty.

It was the first time in

program history that Guyer lost in the first round.

The early-round exit was a rotten cherry

on top of an uncharacteristically up and down season. Guyer still won seven

games, but it was no secret that the team

struggled to maintain consistency on both sides of the ball and got off to a 2-2 start.

| DECEMBER 2017

10 balls for 135 yards.

committed 85 yards in penalties. The

6A. Cobbs averaged just more than seven

Nelson, turned the ball over once, and

one penalty that hurt the most came on the second-to-last play of the game as quarterback Luke Stillwell broke free

and made a diving play for the end

zone to score. Everyone on the Guyer sideline erupted in celebration, but it was

short lived as referees

near the 15-yard line.

game-winning

pass catcher out of the backfield, catching His performance was good enough to

receivers for holding

seconds, but their

Wildcats having rushed for 1,362 yards

Instead, Guyer threw for 74 yards against

called one of Guyer’s

win in the closing

26 | LANTANA LIVING

The Wildcats rebounded by winning five

That set up a fourth-and-

long situation as time

expired, and Guyer

couldn’t convert.

Despite the negative ending to the

season, the Wildcats did show they

have plenty of weapons to work with in the coming years – the biggest being

sophomore running back Kaedric Cobbs.

Cobbs, who transferred from Melissa in

the offseason, was an absolute monster

make him the No. 11 rusher in all of Class yards per carry.

Expect Cobbs to have another big year next season as Guyer continues its runheavy attack. But with the upcoming

graduation of TCU commit John Lanz,

the team will need to beef up its offensive line to pave the way for its dynamic running back.

Guyer will also have a new quarterback

next season. Stillwell will graduate, which opens the door for backups like Trace

Jewell. Jewell saw plenty of action this past season while finishing with 215

passing yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 315 yards and a score.

The bottom line is that while Guyer will have plenty of new faces leading the

charge next year, it always manages to find itself making the playoffs. And you can bet the Wildcats will be more motivated than ever in 2018 to erase the memory of this year’s early-round exit.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

Family

Guyer Holds

Volleyball:

ITS WN

On All-District/

All-Star Teams

by Steve Gamel

this year’s list, including two superlative honors as freshman Jordyn Williams was named newcomer of the year and junior Rachel Tullos earned blocker of the year.

Kate Cowan, an LSU signee, and Brooke Slusser made first team while Angel Felan (Texas A&M-Corpus Christi) and Shea Slusser were selected to the second team.

In other postseason honors, the Texas Girls Coaches Association recognized the top juniors in the state with its annual AllStar team selections. Tullos, an Arkansas State commit, was named to the 5A-6A All-Star Red team.

Tullos, who was instrumental in lifting Guyer back to the postseason after a

T

he high school volleyball season ended last month, and postseason honors continue to roll in. Guyer, in particular, was well-represented when the District 6-6A All-District team was released.

one-year absence, was Guyer’s lone representative on the team and one of only two Denton-County athletes to make the team in any classification. The other was Argyle’s Alyssa Wallace in Class 4A.

DISTRICT 6-6A

All-District Co-MVPs

Jill Pressly: Plano West Julia Adams: Plano

Offensive Player of the Year Iman Ndiaye: Plano West

Defensive Player of the Year Haley Hoang: Plano West

Blocker of the Year

TEAM LIST First Team: Ashley Le: Plano West

Jill Pressly: Plano West

Iman Ndiaye: Plano West

Haley Hoang: Plano West Sydney Yap: Plano West

Lauren Blomquist: Plano West Callie Parlin: Plano

Julia Adams: Plano

Rachel Tullos: Guyer

Faith Panhans: Plano

Setter of the Year

Aysia Harty: McKinney Boyd

Alina Lam: Allen

Sarah Sheffield: Wylie

Callie Kemohah: Allen

Newcomer of the Year

Jordyn Williams: Guyer

Coach of the Year

Brittany Bridge: Plano West

28 | LANTANA LIVING

The Lady Wildcats had six athletes make

| DECEMBER 2017

Alina Lam: Allen

Avery Haydu: Allen

Kirby Smith: Plano East Kate Cowan: Guyer

Rachel Tullos: Guyer

Jordyn Williams: Guyer Brooke Slusser: Guyer Macey Winburn: McKinney

Second Team: Gerilyn Boyle: Plano West Hunter Anderson: Plano West Jessie Johnson: Plano Caitlin Cooper: Plano Annie Harris: McKinney Amari Wilson: Allen Morgan Christon: Allen Madi Miller: Wylie Allison Owen: Plano East Angel Felan: Guyer Shea Slusser: Guyer Courtney Walters: McKinney Boyd Andie Baldridge: McKinney Boyd

It was certainly an impressive season for Guyer, which won 31 matches this year under new coach Heather Van Noy and backed eventual state champion Hebron into a corner several times before losing that first-round playoff match 25-19, 25-27, 25-22, 25-19. The Lady Wildcats trailed by only one point late in the fourth while trying to force a decisive fifth set, but the Lady Hawks scored eight of the next 11 points to seal the win.

Guyer finished with 15 blocks and 72 digs.

Freshman Jordyn Williams and Arkansas State commit Rachel Tullos finished with 12 kills apiece. Tullos added nine blocks.

The resurgent season came after Guyer finished the previous season with just three district wins.

Overall, the Lady Wildcats were led by four Division I athletes in Cowan (LSU), Tullos (Arkansas State), Felan (A&MCommerce), and Mallory Pittman (Texas State).

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

Family | Counseling

YOUR

BODY YOUR

CHOICE R

emember the excitement and dread the holidays brought as a child? Remember that one family member that always wanted a too-long hug or patted your head just a bit too hard? Remember finding reasons to not be around the adults so that you wouldn’t have to endure it? You wonder if there is something you can do so your child won’t have that same experience….

We want our families to be close and youngsters need a lot of touch, but we also want them to know touch is their choice.

How do we balance these needs?

• Be honest! When my kids were young, I taught them that connection, particularly physical, is their choice.

[Go to my blog to learn why]. I told the family my purpose was to create intentional connection with my kids.

• Be Focused! Our family used these phrases a lot. If we were wrestling and wanted to stop- “My Body My Choice!” Everyone would scramble to stop immediately. At goodbyes, we said: “Hugs and kisses if you have them, high fives if you don’t!”

When an unwanted touch comes their way, my kids know the choices and the rule...

• Be Clear! Two short sentences conveyed the message: “My body, my choice.”

30 | LANTANA LIVING

“Hugs and kisses if you got them, high fives if you don’t.”

| DECEMBER 2017

Our kids are older, but they still recite these mantras. Our conversations about boundaries focus on those outside the family, but these statements still teach respect for personal space. When an unwanted

touch comes their way, my kids know the choices and the rule: my body, my choice.

Wouldn’t that save a lot of pain if everyone knew that?

Need help teaching boundaries to your little ones? Has something negative already happened to you or your family?

Christy has been helping families and individuals for 17 years come up with great ways to talk about boundaries and heal from trauma. Call her! She can help.

Acorn has same week appointments most weeks.

by Christy Graham LPC Play Therapist Supervisor Acorn Counseling Education Services

940.222.8703 • acorncounseling.services

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 31

Chalk It Up To

EXPERIENCE

by Susan Neuhalfen

“The depth of experience and research I’ve done over the years on the Damon system have demonstrated it to be able to far surpass conventional orthodontics when it comes to the patient’s overall front: Dr. Bob. Back row (left to right) TammyJo Dubose, Sacha Warren & Natalie Cordova 32 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

experience.”

They say experience is the best teacher.

In the case of Dr. Robert Borkowski,

teaching is also great experience. As

a pioneer in modern orthodontics, he

has been treating patients and teaching

more comfortable for the patient. The

difference in his practice is having a

game changing as far as the world of

staff that is well educated in the Damon

orthodontics was concerned.

students before he even graduated from

“After meeting with Dr. Damon, I went back

Georgetown University.

to my own practice and immediately

“When I was a resident I was asked

stopped using the old conventional

orthodontics,” said Dr. Borkowski, owner

would be short-changing my patients if I

to teach general dental students in

system,” said Dr. Borkowski. “ I knew I

of Renown Orthodontics. “Then, after I

didn’t use the Damon system.”

graduated I was invited back to teach one day each week, while I was opening my own practice.”

It’s one thing to simply gain experience

through practicing, but to be engaged in

the responsibilities of teaching, answering colleague’s tough questions, is quite

Because research had provided him with a deeper understanding of the force systems that drive the Damon system, Dr. Borkowski knew how to best make it work for his patients.

“I had already done a great deal of research on force

another. Dr. Borkowski has had quite

an impact on decades of students, having

been invited to their home countries to speak about

orthodontic topics.

“A teacher is held to a different level of understanding,”

Thus began a career-long love of research

and teaching, and as a result, Dr. Borkowski has been requested to speak globally for many years, lecturing to thousands.

“A teacher is held to a different level

of understanding,” said Dr. Borkowski.

“Orthodontists all over the world are so

meticulous in their approach to treatment, you find that you have to know more than if you just stay in your own office.”

sponsored content

photography by Guy T Photography

It wasn’t long before he began consulting

with other innovative orthodontists as well.

Dr. Dwight Damon called Dr. Borkowski to consult with him about his previous

The other thing that makes a huge

Damon system, as it is now known, was

systems. But it’s not enough to only know the information. You

system. That is critical as to how patients are treated. His staff is knowledgeable, experienced and talented in the application of Damon principles.

“I’m so thankful to find such a remarkable staff,” says Dr. Borkowski. “They are an amazing team and have been instrumental in anticipating, confronting and overcoming the challenges of starting a new practice.”

After such an illustrious career, one might wonder why Dr. Borkowski doesn’t just rest on his vast array of laurels.

“When I decided to open Renown Orthodontics, I had a friend ask me ‘Why don’t you just relax and float casually downstream?’”, said Dr.

have to know how to

Borkowski. “After that, I thought about

best apply it,” said

getting a tattoo over my heart, but in

Dr. Borkowski.

As a result, not only was Dr. Borkowski closely involved in the development of the Damon system, he was one of the original leading international speakers, lecturing in over 30 countries worldwide.

In fact, now that the patents have run out, several orthodontic companies are producing something similar to the Damon

reverse script, so that I can read it in the mirror every morning for inspiration: No, I don’t float casually downstream.”

Dr. Borkowski went on to say that this is a very exciting time in Orthodontics, with procedures and theories changing more rapidly than ever. Yes, we’ve come a long way in integrating so many fields of science, from Biology and Physiology to Engineering and Metallurgy, but there is

system, which has now come to be known

still a lot more to learn and discover.

as a Passive Self-Ligating (PSL) system, but

“As a profession, we have come so far,”

Dr. Borkowski says that there are nuances to the Damon system that make it the PSL leader.

said Dr. Borkowski. “I’m excited to see and be a part of what’s next. New technologies, such as Invisalign and Propel, the former

research and how it related to a new

“The depth of experience and research I’ve

which reduces friction between wires more efficient, but more importantly,

comes to the patient’s overall experience.”

of which can make treatment more cosmetically acceptable, and the latter

system that Dr. Damon had developed

done over the years on the Damon system have demonstrated it to be able to far

which can drastically reduce treatment

and brackets, making tooth movement

surpass conventional orthodontics when it

times, are on the verge of changing how we think about patient care.”

469.444.1640

RenownOrtho.com

2851 Cross Timbers Rd., Ste 113 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 33

Family

Winter Break

Family Fun

by Susan Neuhalfen

W

hile the relatives are in and the kiddos are home from school, here are some last minute holiday happenings that will still be going on over the winter break.

North Pole Express at Grapevine Vintage Railroad

With over 2 million LED lights, this

grapevinetexasusa.com

the family.

Now – December 23, 2017 Take a train ride back in time with music,

sleigh bells and a visit form Santa making this a great memory for families.

Lone Star Christmas at Gaylord Texas www.marriott.com/gaylord-hotels/travel.mi#texan Now – January 1, 2018 The Gaylord Texan ICE! features Twas’ the

drive-thru display of holiday lights at

Texas Motor Speedway is a MUST DO for

Enchant - The World's Largest Christmas Light Maze & Market www.mlb.com/rangers/tickets/events/enchant Now - December 31, 2017 Navigate through the world's largest

Christmas light maze, glide around the ice-skating pond, shop the Christmas

marketplace all while enjoying hot cocoa and time with family and friends.

Panther Island Ice Coyote Drive-In Ft. Worth pantherislandice.com November 17, 2017 – January 15, 2018 Rent some skates or bring your own to Fort Worth’s only outdoor ice-skating rink.

Get half price admission on Tuesdays or get $2 off admission on Wednesdays when you bring in two canned goods to donate to the Tarrant Area Food Bank.

Dallas Arboretum 12 Days of Christmas

life-sized ice sculptures, ice slides

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas

Workshop Snow Tubing, Glacier Glide Ice

Now-January 7, 2018 (select days)

You hardly need a reason to visit the

This year's Holiday in the Park features a

Dallas Arboretum but during the holidays

Night Before Christmas display including and ice monuments plus Santa’s Wild

Skating, Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt and beautiful decorations.

www.sixflags.com

Christmas train ride and a racing hill made

Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway

of snow along with an assortment of rides

www.tmsgiftoflights.com

light shows, and s'more cookouts around

reindeer dance parties, choreographed a real campfire.

Now – December 30, 2017 34 | LANTANA LIVING

to keep everyone happy. There are also

| DECEMBER 2017

www.dallasarboretum.org

it’s especially amazing. Come either during the daytime or nighttime to see 12 elaborate gazebos filled with costumed characters, animals and winter scenes from the 12 days of Christmas.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

Family | College Prep

V

How To Get Into Your TOP CHOICE FOR COLLEGE

anguard College Prep has been working to provide holistic preparation in the Denton community over the last 5 years. Instead of a taking a cliche one-sizefits-all approach prevalent in the education industry, we address the college application process through meaningful test-prep, individualized college counseling, and essay consultation that is tailored to each student.

When it comes to competitive college admissions, these are the three key steps to getting into your dream school.

KNOW YOUR STUFF In showcasing your smarts, there’s no faking it. The best way to achieve high scores is through engaging in meaningful learning with the content and aligning your focus to the test. Discover your areas of weakness, and seek to better understand those concepts. Keep practicing, and take full, timed tests.

36 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

CHOOSE THE RIGHT COLLEGE While you build the list of colleges you’re interested in, keep in mind classsize, location, and program specialities.

Consider what you’re looking for from a social and academic environment. Visit colleges early, so you have a chance to see these factors in action. Discover what you want, and work to tailor your applications to the colleges that fit.

PLAN FINANCIALLY As tuition costs rise, keeping debt

negligible has never been more important for families. Start early. Find out your Expected Family Contribution to know how much to save. Know what scholarships you qualify for, and prep wellwritten essays to win.

Vanguard College Prep 214.488.4333 www.vanguardcp.com Rockbrook Dr., # 307 Lewisville, TX 75067

&

L Re anta sid na en t

ALLERGIC RHINITIS

VITAMIN D

by Dr. Rebecca Butler

A

llergic rhinitis (AR) is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and adults. It is characterized by the symptoms of nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, ear and nasal itching, and watery itchy eyes.

AR can have a significant influence on quality of life. I personally see children that have poor focus, trouble with school performance, and some disciplinary problems secondary to poorly controlled AR.

Sponsored Content

Allergic rhinits is an immunologic reaction and the prevalence of the disease has increased during the last few decades. The exact cause of AR has not been clearly identified, but it is known that genetic, and environmental factors play an important role in the development of the disease. Treatment options consist of drugs like anti-histamines, intranasal corticosteroids, decongestants, and most recently immunotherapy (allergy shots).

I frequently get questions from frustrated parents regarding options for diagnosing and treating their children especially when they feel they have exhausted all of the usual treatment options. Allergy testing to identify triggers and offending agents is a good first step and often provides some directions to avoidance of specific allergens. Immunotherapy is the best option, at this time, for ‘curing’ allergies. It is important to Several

know that new allergies may develop at any age, so maintaining regular testing and treatment is vital to maintaining symptom reduction.

There is evidence that sufficient Vitamin D is very important in our immune function and has an effect on both innate and adaptive immunity. It helps to modulate, regulate, activate, and inhibit certain pathways of our immune system. Low Vitamin D levels may have a major impact on the outcome of allergic illnesses in both adults and children. So get outside, eat vitamin D rich foods, take a Vitamin D supplement if necessary, and talk with your doctor.

The association between low serum vitamin D levels and an increase in immune disorders is not coincidental. Current lifestyles have led people to spend more time indoors, leading to less sun exposure and therefore less vitamin D production by our bodies.

FLU

SE IS H ASON Plea ERE s . you e sche dul r flu sho e ts.

studies have investigated the role of vitamin D in the treatment of allergic diseases; however the results are still controversial. There is good evidence suggesting that correcting a true Vitamin D deficiency can prevent AR occurrence, reduce severity of disease, and thus improve quality of life.

In AR, exposure to allergens like dust mites, cockroach residues, animal dander, molds, and pollen may cause certain immune cells to infiltrate the nasal lining. Then a further cellular inflammatory response occurs over the next 4-8 hours resulting in symptoms. Vitamin D aids in adaptive immunity in a way that inhibits many pro-inflammatory functions of our immune response to these allergens.

Unfortunately there are very few studies that have been done on pediatric patients to assess a direct correlation between AR and vitamin D deficiency, but it is important to evaluate for a deficiency in very allergic children. The hope is that further studies and advancements in science and medicine find a solid and direct correlation and, in turn, another treatment option for all of those who suffer from allergic rhinitis.

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 Lantana Pediatrics, Dr. Butler and/or Melanie Bitzer, CPNP or to schedule an appointment with one of these providers, call the office at 940.455.7200.

940.455.7200 www.LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226

Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:00pm • Friday: 7:30am - 5pm Saturdays: 9am - 12pm

Choose

Family | Edit This

YOUR WORDS

Wisely

I

was asked recently to trim two articles by 40 or 50 words so that each fit the existing layout of a client’s newsletter. That’s no problem for me, but one of my goals for any editing project is to be considerate of the author’s message and writing style.

Perhaps you’ve found yourself walking that fine line with your own copy – you

have so much good stuff to write, but it’s

simply too wordy when you finish putting pen to paper.

You need to cut something.

But what? And how?

Start by shortening wordy sentences.

With patience and a keen eye, you and/

or your editor can shorten practically any sentence by removing what I call “empty

calorie” words and phrases. These also are called “filler” or “weasel” words, and they contribute nothing to your writing.

Writing concisely allows you to present more information with less words while maintaining a clear message.

Below are a few examples.

• Very • That • In spite of the fact that • Really • Due to the fact • At all times • More

38 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

Instead of writing, “It is imperative that all employees report to the meeting early and on time,” trim it to say, “All employees must report to the meeting on time.” That’s a difference of five words!

You’d be surprised how wordy we all are!

Writing concisely allows you to present more information with less words while maintaining a clear message. By following this simple approach with my client, I trimmed the fat in the newsletter without sacrificing anything critical. The end result was a quality product.

This article focused on wordiness, but using the active voice and staying on topic also helps you stay concise.

Edit This is a full-service writing and editing services company. With more than 20 years of experience, I can help you clearly and concisely communicate your written message to any audience. Give us a call today, and thanks for reading!

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 www.EditThisLLC.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 39

Family

REACHING L

antana resident and North Texas Celtic Futbol Club mom, Kathie Franklin is on a mission.

She loves North Texas Celtic FC and wants every child that strives to play

soccer at a higher competitive level to be

NTX Celtic FC has an International

to Glasgow, Scotland for training and

which was formed in 1887 to feed and

coaches in the league as a player with the

Partnership with The Celtic Football Club, clothe the poor of Glasgow, Scotland – all out of the love of the game. NTX Celtic FC is following in the steps of its sister

able to join them. Arthur Hamilton and

club to truly do wonderful things for the

asked Kathie to Chair the 2017 – 2018

This isn’t a casual experience for these

Carrie Langford, the owners of the Club, Fundraising Committee to create two

main fundraisers for the year to help kids of all ages play the game they love.

“We don’t want to turn players away

due to finances,” she said. “Some families just need a little help and others need 100% sponsorship.”

Their upcoming fundraiser

will be held at The Lantana Golf Club on January 20th at 6:30 p.m. when they

host a Boots, Bourbon &

Blackjack Casino Night. The

event will include a Texas Hold

less fortunate.

kids. Playing for NTX Celtic FC at a

higher level in North Texas has produced many kids who have gone on to play

high school, college and hopefully on

professional level. They have an Academy program for 5 -10 year olds and a Select program for 11+. The Club

“These clubs have produced many kids who have gone on to play high school, college and professional sports.”

‘em Tournament and other casino

recently was invited to play in

the National Premier League

the NTX Celtic FC philosophy states

that its primary purpose is to produce

upstanding, productive and law abiding

young adults and that the goal of winning at any cost should take a distant position to that of family and education. In other

words, they strive to teach kids not only to be competitive athletes and good people on the pitch but off the pitch as well.

NTX Celtic FC is a non-profit organization that operates out of Game On Athletics, right off Old Alton Road in Denton.

Though they hold fundraisers throughout

big success.

teams in Kansas,

Oklahoma Arkansas.

Last summer, NTX Celtic player

Program, an honor given to only four

| DECEMBER 2017

Despite being a competitive league,

against some of the top

play at a higher level

They will also have a silent auction and

40 | LANTANA LIVING

potential to play professionally some day.

the year, this is the first year for their

Gabriel Munillo, Jr. was selected to

multiple raffle baskets.

evaluation, having been pinpointed by

which allows players to

games, a food and cash bar, the live band Good Therapy and lots and lots of fun.

photos courtesy of NTX Celtic FC

GOALS

participate in the Celtic FC’s Elite Player individuals in the U.S. He will travel

casino night, which Kathie hopes will be a “We really hope everyone will come

out and join us,” said Kathie. “It’s really

important to us that these kids get to play and have positive interaction with other kids and adults.”

More information may be found at www.ntxcelticfc.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 41

Lifestyle photos courtesy of Judy Garland Fan Club

Becoming

JUDY

GARLAND

by Susan Neuhalfen

“I wrote this book because I feel Judy Garland is still relevant to children, even after all these years.”

T

o say that Adkins Elementary Music Teacher Randy Schmidt is living the dream would be inaccurate.

The truth is, he’s working the dream.

He spends the day teaching what he

loves to some very enthusiastic Lantana

students. If you’ve ever attended one of

his performances, you see the passion he puts into the songs which is reflected in the kids’ performances.

However, there’s another side to Mr. Schmidt.

best selling author. He’s been named a

New York Times Editor’s Choice and was on the Wall Street Journal’s Bestseller

list for Little Girl Blue: The Life Of Karen Carpenter. He has also edited and

compiled Judy Garland On Judy Garland: Interviews and Encounters, and Dolly On Dolly: Interviews and Encounters

With Dolly Parton, both books from the

Musicians in Their Own Words series from Chicago Review Press. Also Yesterday Once More:

The Carpenters Reader.

Now he has written a book geared more toward the students that he teaches every day. It’s all about Judy Garland and her

life before stardom. It is formatted much like a

Garland, certain stories and scenes would pop out to him. He started pulling those stories, crafting an outline of her young life.

He also had his own team of editors: his students.

“I would share the manuscript and ask for their opinion,” said Schmidt about his ‘captive audience’. “They were very honest and told me what parts were boring and which ones they loved.”

Believe it or not, he is a critically acclaimed

part of his repertoire is

As he was writing the other book on Judy

Schmidt mostly wanted his young audience to know that Judy Garland’s story was more than just the Wizard of Oz character of Dorothy.

“I felt it was important to keep her memory around for these younger generations,” he said.

Schmidt’s first book, Little Girl Blue: The Life of Karen Carpenter, took ten years of research and networking

Now he has written a book geared more toward the students that he teaches every day. It’s all about Judy Garland and her life before stardom.

scrapbook with lots of

pictures of the young star. see different biographies for children

before it was published in 2010. It was an instant bestseller and Schmidt was profiled in People Magazine, Entertainment Tonight, Inside Edition and other news sources for his insightful writing.

From there he wrote

books for the Musicians in Their Own

“Mrs. McLarty, the principal at Adkins, has been so supportive,” said Schmidt. “If I have to fly somewhere for an interview or book event, all she asks is that I come back and share my experience with our students. She sees the value in broadening my experiences and horizons and wants the kids to learn from me that a teacher can be an author, too.”

He is also grateful for his husband, Jaime Rodriguez-Schmidt and daughters Camryn (a freshman at UNT) and Kaylee (an 8th grader at Harpool Middle School) for their love and support.

Today, Schmidt still has lots of embers in the fire. There is talk about a movie based on his Karen Carpenter book. He is also thinking his next children’s book may be about Karen Carpenter or possibly a book about native Texas musicians.

“When I find a subject I’m very passionate about, I just love to write about it,” said Schmidt. “I want my students to explore and write about what they love, too.”

Becoming Judy Garland is available at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and randylschmidt.com For those who purchase Becoming Judy Garland through one of Schmidt’s scheduled events, they get a special edition CD with the audiobook and some of Garland’s earlier recordings.

Words series, first on Judy Garland

photography by Jonathan Mcinnis Photography

“In my first few years of teaching I would

to finally complete,

Throughout his dual career he has been very grateful about the support he has received from work as well as at home.

and then on Dolly Parton. Researching

and thought it would be neat to write

Dolly’s story took him to her hometown

book because I feel Judy Garland is still

theme park, and behind the scenes in the

these years.”

Fame in Nashville.

something like that,” he said. “I wrote this

of Sevierville, Tennessee, her Dollywood

relevant to children, even after all

archives of the Country Music Hall of

Author Randy Schmidt

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

Lifestyle

Working

TOGETHER C

to Serve a Need

by Susan Neuhalfen

ross Timbers Church Missions Pastor Bryce Olson was in Uganda when Hurricane Harvey hit the Gulf Coast of Texas. As soon as he returned he knew he had his work cut out for him. He, along with his team, quickly started reaching out to places to figure out what the church could do to help. They found a church in the area that was a sort of hub for the Port Aransas community and began working with them right away.

One lady in particular needed help from them. She suffered from a medical condition and after the hurricane, all of the walls of her house had to be taken down.

Olson and his crew installed insulation and paneling in the living room. On their

next trip, they’ll be working on the flooring The mission crew from Cross Timbers and finishing the fencing in the backyard. has already made two trips and are going for a third trip in In addition to the work the December. Their first project ...the mission mission crew has done, the was to help the church get crew became the church collected supplies and their daycare facility up and go-to contact for brought them to Galveston running which required a neighbors that needed via 18-wheeler. Within a few great deal of clean up. It was odd jobs done. days they also loaded a U-Haul pivotal for the people of Port Aransas as there was no other which was taken to Ecclesia Church daycare available and many weren’t in downtown Houston. able to return to their jobs. The daycare The best thing is that all Cross Timbers reopened the following week.

On their next trip, they were assigned two families that needed help. These were not members of the church, just two families in need in the community. One needed plumbing help and the other needed interior work. Once their job was completed, the mission crew became the go-to contact for neighbors that needed odd jobs done.

44 | LANTANA LIVING

| DECEMBER 2017

Church campuses participated as well

as many who didn’t even belong to the church. Bryce emphasized that not only do these people still need help, any help is welcome.

“Anyone is welcome to serve with us any time,” said Bryce. “The most important thing is that we all come together.”

photos courtesy of Cross Timbers Church

“We started working with Trinity by the Sea Episcopal Church in Port Aransas to find out what the community needs and what we could do to help,” said Bryce.

“They were very well connected to the community and able to give us a pretty clear picture of where they needed help.”

LAN

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

Lifestyle | Gardening

Winter

LAWN CARE T

his time of year always seems like it’s one of the busiest as we move through the holiday season and

toward the end of the year. Remodels

As the last lawn cuttings (scalpings) of the

year should be happening here in the next week or so (if not already) take advantage

of the ground exposure and look for areas

that need to be completed before guests

where water is either eroding or pooling

staging, shopping to wrap up and a

work done now that the grass is so short

get taken care of before 2018 arrives.

ground lays out. French drains along with

As you’re preparing for Christmas and

way to help dry out around your property.

arrive, patio builds to finish, customer

up. Winter is a great time to get drainage

laundry list of office items we need to

and everyone can see exactly how the

your own “end of the year deadlines”

don’t forget to get outside and take care of some wintertime maintenance. As the

downspout / gutter drains are a great

Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, foundation issues and muddy backyards should be high on our homeowner to-

trees are losing leaves, it’s an ideal time

do lists, ensuring year-round use of our

Along with helping to strengthen the

We hope everyone has a great Christmas

to get them trimmed up and thinned out. tree, trimming will allow more sunlight to your shady turf areas thickening them up

come spring, slowing the soil erosion and keeping your lawn looking healthier. Out in the Lantana and Argyle areas, we’ve

noticed what seems to be an increase in mice and squirrels this year, so getting

those limbs back off the house could also eliminate one of their routes back inside.

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| DECEMBER 2017

outdoor spaces.

season and doesn’t get too overwhelmed

by one thing or another. Enjoy visiting with your family and friends and invest your time in what really matters.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

Lifestyle

McCaul’s best friend in elementary school

Sadie Takes Her Fight To The

L

Big Apple

by Susan Neuhalfen

antana’s Sadie Keller made an appearance on Fox News Sunday with Texas Congressman Mike McCaul (R-TX). She and Rep. McCaul discussed childhood cancer and what the government needs to do to help these children get the research and funding they need.

Sadie went on to talk about how having childhood cancer has made her a better person because she’s shared that experience and she loves to help others now.

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| DECEMBER 2017

to him. He founded and chaired the Childhood Cancer Caucus to give these children a voice in Congress since they don’t have lobbyists and special interest groups to help them.

After meeting Sadie he knew he’d found his best advocate.

“This is a special girl in my life and many others because of her attitude,” he told Fox News. “She is so positive, taking a bad experience and turning it into something positive is really the life lesson for all of us.

She’s the best lobbyist we have.”

Sadie also talked to the host about her “Sadie’s Sleigh” toy drive which is now in its third year working to hit her lofty goal of 10,000 toys for four hospitals in the DFW area. For information on how you can help, go to www.sadiekellerfoundation.org.

photo courtesy of Sarah Keller

“Childhood cancer only gets 4% funding from government I think that’s horrible,” said ten year-old Sadie. “Kids shouldn’t have to go through that.”

died of leukemia so this cause is important

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 49

Lifestyle

Christmas Eve Services in Lantana

C

hristmas Eve falls on Sunday this year, making for some unusual Christmas Eve service scheduling. Many churches are offering their traditional morning services followed by a candlelight Christmas Eve service in the evening. Here are some schedules for churches in our area:

Crosstimbers Church 312 W. McKinney St. Denton Campus Crosstimberschurch.org

urch 7 rs Ch e b y 37 m ti . Hw S .

U Cross h Sout s 1119 mpu rg a le C rch.o y g r c A rs hu e b stim Cros

st ber 21 Decem m • 7p

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th ber 24 Decem m :00p • 12 m 00p • 2: 00pm • 4: 00pm • 6:

| DECEMBER 2017

Lantan a Com munit 2200 y Fello Jeter wship Rd E, lcfnaz Barto .org nville

December 21st • 6:00pm • 7:30pm

Decem ber 24 th • 10a m Bre akfas (brin t g bre akfas t to sha • 11: re) 00am Wors hip Se rvice

December 24th • 2:00pm • 4:00pm • 6:00pm

Roc kP 450 ointe Chu 3C rch ros Flo s we Tim rM b roc ers ou kpo Roa inte nd Dec d emb chu er 2 rch • 5 3 . rd org :00 pm Dec em • 9 ber 24t h :15 am • 1 1:0 0am • 2 :30 pm

urch lic Ch o rgyle h t a ad, A rk C o a R M . d St for Craw rg 6500 on.o dent k r a stm th ber 24 s Decem -Mas 0am s s • 7:0 a s -M -Mas 0am 0 : 9 , 4pm

s • s a :30-M • 11

Faith U nited Metho 6060 dist C Teasle hurch y (Dento Ln, D www enton n) .tryfa ith.or g

thodist Church Argyle United Me th Dr, Argyle 9033 Fort Wor c.org www.argyleum Service • • 3pm-Family ional Service December 24th • 5pm-Tradit ir, e, ic rv Se ily union & Cho • 10am-Fam with Comm e ic ry rv ra empo itional Se • 12pm-Cont • 11pm-Trad ion un m m o C h union Service wit with Comm

Decem ber 24 th • 10: 30am • 5:0 0pm

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 51

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| DECEMBER 2017

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 53

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Lifestyle

Gifts from the

Heart

by Susan Neuhalfen

S

o often we find ourselves trudging through malls looking for the “perfect” gift when the best gifts

aren’t really gifts at all; they are memories.

They are that time your friend made you

laugh until you spit your drink all over the table at the ice cream parlor. They are the fun you had building a sandcastle at the beach with your kids. They are the band

that you and your husband saw one night in concert.

The next time you have to buy a present for a friend or family member, consider

a gift that can’t be duplicated by anyone else. It’s a memory you share with that

person. Here are some ideas from readers as to how to give a gift that will be

only had two no-shows. I placed the letters in an album, complete with pictures of my husband with those people throughout his life. To this day, he pulls out that album and reads the letters.

cherished for a lifetime:

Vintage Pictures: My mom had a box full of

Letter book: When my husband and I were

old pictures that were barely surviving the

in his life, asking them to write him a letter.

them restored and then framed for her.

stamped envelope and, to my surprise,

was so happy.

still dating, I wrote to ten important people

Texas heat. I took a few of them and had

I sent the request with a self-addressed

You’d thought I’d bought her a new car she

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| DECEMBER 2017

Shadow Box: My friend and I went to Jones Beach to see the B-52s in concert. I put together a shadowbox with a vial of sand, the ticket stub and a picture of us at the concert. She still has it displayed proudly in her house, despite our out-of-date bilevel haircuts.

Engraved pie plate: I gave my sister a pie plate that had our mother’s recipe for apple pie, in her handwriting, engraved into the plate. That way she can’t lose the recipe and the familiar handwriting always reminds us of our mother.

Music video: Instead of buying my husband another power tool for our wedding anniversary, I made a music video using our wedding song and put together pictures of us over the years. I catch my husband watching it sometimes.

8MM Film to DVD: After my mother died, my dad found 8MM film stored away and took them to have them transferred to DVD. The result was getting to see my mother again, on films I didn’t remember. The best part was seeing how much my son looked like my five year-old self.

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Lifestyle

photos courtesy of Krista Middleton

T

he Lantana Ladies League is known for its crazy events but the quarter auction is in a class by itself.

“All of the people running around the

room collecting the quarters into buckets were people who have Type 1 Diabetes,”

Lantana resident Krista Middleton was

said Krista. “That way every single time

event raised over $2500 for Juvenile

buckets, they were giving it to someone

in charge of the auction. The LLL annual

someone dropped their quarters into the

Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). The

that would directly benefit from it.”

donation was matched by another donor on Giving Day, raising $5000 for JDRF.

Over 60 items and door prizes were

obtained from vendors including Fixd,

“I was diagnosed with diabetes as a

who donated free furnace tunes ups for

important to me.”

vendors included LuLaRoe, Scentsy

baby,” said Krista. “It’s a cause that’s very Held at the Lantana Golf Club, the LLL

Quarter Auction runs like this: participants come in the door and purchase a paddle.

Each paddle has a number that has a

corresponding poker chip that goes into a box for drawing. Some participants

purchase additional paddles for increased

everyone who walked in the door. Other and custom t-shirts by Lantana resident Jessica Marr.

The final item of the night was a custom outdoor TV cabinet, valued at $750, handmade by Krista’s husband, a professional carpenter.

chances of winning. As prizes come up for

“It had shutters for protection and

allowing guests to get great prizes for as

Krista. “It gets crazy in there but everyone

auction, each bid is a quarter (per paddle)

someone got it for four quarters,” said

little as twenty-five cents.

has a great time for a great cause.”

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| DECEMBER 2017

The pumpkin represents how many needles Lantana resident Krista Middleton, who was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes as a baby, has given herself from November 1 until the morning of the quarter auction on Tuesday November 14. She has given herself injections with 77,000 needles to date.

DECEMBER 2017 | LANTANA LIVING | 61

Lifestyle

What to Do with

LEFTOVER Cranberry Sauce W

hat do you do with leftover cranberry sauce? Florencio Benitez, Chef at Verf’s Grill &

Tavern and Shoal Creek Tavern gave us

SMOKED SALMON, CRANBERRY AND FETA DIP • 1 lb. of smoked salmon

some scrumptious ideas:

• 1/2 cup of cranberries

Bone In Roasted Pork Chop

• 2 oz. feta cheese

With Jalapeno/ Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

• 12oz bone in pork chop • left over cranberry sauce • 2 fresh jalapeños

• 1 tsp. garlic • 1 medium caramelized onion • 4 oz. of cream cheese • chopped chives • 1/2 cup of candied pecans

• one red onion • 1/2 cup of bourbon • chicken stock Season pork chop with sea salt, fresh

ginger, garlic, vegetable oil and cracked

black pepper. Pan sear chop and finish in

the oven at 325 until reaches 150 degrees.

Sauce:

• 2 avocados Put cream cheese, caramelized onions and garlic in a food processor until smooth, add cranberries, feta, avocados, chives and pecans and fold them in with the spatula. Serve with some flat bread crackers and pita chips.

Julia’s Incredible Cranberry Salsa

Sauteed jalapenos and onions until

• 2 cups leftover cranberry sauce, your choice of homemade or store bought

Add the cranberries and chicken stock

• ¼ cup diced red onion

caramelized, glazed with bourbon.

and let it reduce for about 20 minutes at low heat. Pour sauce over the pork

chop, garnished with some crumbled feta and chives.

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| DECEMBER 2017

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro • 1½ teaspoons powdered cumin (this is the secret ingredient!)

• ¼ teaspoon salt • juice of one lime • (Optional) 1 diced jalapeño or Serrano, depending on how hot you want the salsa Combine ingredients and serve with crispy corn tortilla chips, on a turkey sandwich, in a turkey salad, etc.

Refrigerate leftover salsa.

Salsa recipe courtesy of the husband and wife team of chefs and owners of Fusion Taco, David Grossman and Julia Sharaby in Houston and Cleverley Stone, "Cooking with Cleverley," FOX 26 Houston.

IDEAS FROM THE READERS: Ginger’s Sandwich Spread Mix leftover cranberry sauce with Dijon mustard for a sandwich spread.

Gianna’s Special Holiday Punch Add leftover cranberry sauce to

ginger ale for a yummy holiday drink.

Linda’s Jello Salad Prepare a small box of strawberry and small box of orange Jello.

Mix in the cranberry.