Lantana Living Magazine March 2019

MARCH 15, 2019 - APRIL 19, 2019

TOP 7 BENEFITS

OF ALOE VERA

INSPIRING OTHERS IN A

FITNESS JOURNEY

TIPS FOR D.I.Y

SPRING CLEANING

www.LantanaLiving.com

A Local Spa That

CARES FOR YOU AND

YOUR SKIN

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

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 3

PET EDITION 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.

BLANTON E L E M E N T A R Y

FUN RUN FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019

T

he Blanton Elementary PTA is currently planning its annual flagship fundraising event, the 11th Annual Blanton Fun Run. Blanton students will run as many laps as they can in 20 minutes to help raise money for technology, educational programs,

events and school investments that the PTA provides. Thanks to our generous corporate sponsors, each child will receive a t-shirt and a Blanton Fun Run water bottle!

All donations will be flat dollar amounts. We do not do per lap pledges.

An event of this magnitude could not be successful without the support of our local business community.

On March 8th, we sent home a sheet with information on how to donate and details on the prizes your child can win with donations and/or laps run.

4 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

Here is the tentative schedule for the day of the event: K - 8:30 – 9:15am 1st - 9:20 – 10:05am 2nd - 10:10 – 10:55am 3rd - 11 – 11:45am 4th - 11:50am – 12:35pm 5th - 12:40 – 1:25pm AWARDS CEREMONY -1:45 – 2:30pm

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 5

LantanaLiving.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Emily Mitchell

Writers & Editor

Steve Gamel Barbara-Scott Kolb

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

We Are Surrounded By

AMAZING BUSINESSES

I

AND NOW IS THE TIME TO GO VISIT

f you haven’t noticed, we’ve been sending out notifications here and there over the last month or so about our annual Best of Denton County contest. It’s funny because people keep coming up to me – including past winners who are looking forward to defending their title – and saying, “Already! It feels like we just wrapped all that up.”

Well, there’s still three months to go before nominations begin on June 12, but yes, it will be here before you know it.

Which reminds me – please take a few moments, especially before the craziness of BODC season, and visit some of the amazing small businesses we have here in Denton County. It doesn’t matter if you live in Flower Mound, Lantana, Argyle, or downtown Denton, we are surrounded by the best of the best. Whether it’s electricians, car repair shops, yoga studios,

lawyers, dentists, or someone else, you really can’t go wrong.

You simply need to see for yourself, especially if this will be your first

experience with Best of Denton County.

We are a very tight-knit community, and it really means so much to our organization to be able to call so many of you our

friends and family. We all work so hard

every single day; we pour our heart and soul into what we do for a living, and it means so much to put a smile on a customer’s face.

There are a lot of big-top companies out there who have forgotten the point of

being a business owner. Small-business owners, especially those right here in Denton County, never forget.

Shop Local. Promote Local. Look forward

to Best of Denton County. It’s almost here!

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue!

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

6 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

TABLE OF

CONTENTS The Health

ISSUE

Look for the icon above to learn more about your health and how to stay healthy.

32

On the Cover: The Studio 360 Wellness Team

FEATURED: A Local Spa That Cares For You & Your Skin ASK THE EXPERTS

ARTICLES

12 Home Design with ML Group

04 Blanton Fun Run

18 Fitness with Jesse James Fit

08 Brain Injury Awareness Month:

24 School Days with Valorie McGilvra 28 Gardening with

Complete Solutions

30 Counseling with Hopemead

Counseling & Trauma Center

10 Lesser Known Ways to Get a Concussion

10 Inside Community 11 Inside Education 13 Lantana Community Church Easter Egg Hunt

46 Edit This with Steve Gamel

14 Top 7 Benefits of Aloe Vera

58 Organizing with Cloud

20 Classic of Denton Honors Local

Nine Organizing

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 16 Buckets and Bows: Tips for D.I.Y Spring Cleaning

PHOTOS FROM LANTANA 04 You Submit, We Print: Pet Edition www.LantanaLiving.com

Military Veteran

22 Renowned Speaker Alex Sheen Coming to Guyer

40 EDITORS PICK: Inspiring Others in A Fitness Journey 38 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate

42 Tax Scams to Be Aware of 43 4 Things Everyone Needs to Know About Measles

44 A Legacy of Making A Better Person 48 Lantana Residents Recognized for

Excellence In Managed IT Services

49 3rd Annual Kids Fishing Tournament 50 Sheriff’s Corner with

Sheriff Tracy Murphree

52 Guyer National Signing Day 2019 54 Putting on The Glitz

26 E.P. Rayzor’s Teacher of The Year

55 Painting The World Beautiful

31 Your Oral Health Matters

56 A Texas-Style Casino Night

34 Cut Your Energy Usage & Save Some Money

to Benefit Charity

60 2019 Easter Services MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 7

Health Article

Brain Injury Awareness Month:

L E S SE R K N OWN WAYS TO GE T A

CONCUSSION

by Steve Gamel

I

f you were to give most people a few minutes to think about it, they could probably tell you how old they were when they suffered their first diagnosed concussion.

Granted, they may be a little fuzzy on the details for obvious reasons, but whether it happened during a game of dodgeball in PE class, while roughhousing with an overzealous sibling, or in the first half of a football game, it’s a memory that will always stand out in some way.

8 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

And why? Well, any injury to the brain – especially if it’s your first – is scary and presents a ton of unknowns since everyone is affected by a blow to the head differently. On top of that, recovery time also varies, which means you could be dealing with the effects for a long time if you’ve had repeated blows to the noggin.

Depending on the severity of the injury, concussion symptoms include:

Memory Loss

Chronic Headaches

Vision Problems, Including Sensitivity to Light

Vomiting and Nausea

We share all this with you because March just so happens to be Brain Injury Awareness Month, which

is designed to engage in public

awareness campaigns that educate the

general public about incidents of brain injuries and the needs of people with brain injuries and their families.

To that end, the folks here at Murray Media Group thought we’d remind everyone that while many of the stories we hear

the lesser known ways that may be contributing to the high number of unreported concussions. Some may sound silly but perhaps listing out a few of these will help more people consider visiting with a concussion specialist to improve their immediate and long-term health.

• Slips and falls, especially in the elderly • Hitting your head on the nightstand

about concussions involve athletes from high-impact sports such as football and

• Volleyball (it’s one of the highest-rated concussion sports below football)

soccer, no one is immune from suffering

a concussion. Furthermore, while various statistics from the CDC and the Brain Injury Research Institute say that an

estimated 1.6 to 3.8 million concussions occur in the United States each year,

• Rollercoasters • Whiplash from a car accident • Intense workouts

millions more go unreported.

• Explosions or work-related injuries

There are obvious ways to get a

• Willingly spinning or shaking your head violently

concussion, but here are a few of www.LantanaLiving.com

Difficulty Concentrating

Depression and Anxiety

• Violent shaking

the youth level all the way to the pros in

Neurological Issues

• Previous concussions (The more concussions you have, the more susceptible you are to them)

Once you feel you have a concussion, or if you suspect you do, follow these important steps:

• Avoid performing the actions that led to the concussion in the first place • Get plenty of sleep • Drink lots of water • Avoid strenuous mental activities • Consult with a doctor before taking pain-relieving drugs

Your friends at Murray Media Group want to remind you the best way to maintain your overall health is to live a healthier

lifestyle, be aware of what your body is

trying to tell you, and always consult with your physician.

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 9

INSIDE COMMUNITY WOMEN OF FLOWER MOUND

SPRING FASHION SHOW Sat., Apr. 13th, 2019 | 11am - 1pm The Women of Flower Mound are hosting their annual Spring

Fling Fashion Show at The Shops at Highland Village. They will be showcasing the current season’s fashion trends from The Shops

and will hold a silent auction for a gift basket afterwards. Guests will receive a gift bag and will be able to sample food from The Shops. All proceeds go to the WOFM Scholarship Fund!

To purchase tickets visit www.womenofflowermound.org.

ANNUAL GLENN GARCELON

GOLF CLASSIC Sun., Apr. 7th, 2019 | 1pm - 8:30pm | Tour 18 8718 Amen Corner • Flower Mound, TX 75022

The Glenn Garcelon Foundation will be holding their 8th Annual Golf Classic at Tour 18 in Flower Mound. There will be a shotgun start at 1:00pm, a box lunch, a raffle, great prizes, and a delicious dinner. It will be a fun day benefiting brain tumor patients and their families.

Register now at www.glenngarcelonfoundation.org.

10 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

LANTANA COMMUNITY

GARAGE SALE Sat., Mar. 30th, 2019 | 8am - 3pm Lantana, TX

Spring is here, which means so is spring cleaning! What better time to clean out the garage, or maybe that one closet that is

busting at the seams with stuff that you haven’t used all year?

Mark your calendar for the Lantana Community Spring Garage Sale and log into your community website to register.

www.LantanaLiving.com

INSIDE EDUCATION ADKINS ELEMENTARY

FLIGHT SCHOOL

If you have an incoming Kindergartener,

Adkins Elementary invites you to join them for Kinder Flight School! There will be a variety of

classes over the next few months for your little

one to participate in, including a Kindergarten

Orientation on Wednesday, April 24th. For the

photo courtesy of Claudia Roman

dates and times please visit www.dentonisd.org.

REWARDED FOR HER

EXCELLENCE

Laura Zambrana from Lantana, is a 23 year old student at the University of North Texas.

Laura was recently given distinctions from her school for having an excellent GPA. She also was on the President’s List in the spring of 2018. She is currently majoring in both digital retail and merchandising and is set to graduate in Spring 2020. Her family is so proud of her.

WORLD WEAR PROJECT

AT HARPOOL

The Harpool Middle School PTA is excited to

be partnering with World Wear Project to raise

money for the school through donations made

GUYER

EVENTS GHS Varsity Softball vs Byron Nelson March 22nd at 7pm at GHS Softball Field

GHS Varsity Girls Golf March 25th at 8:30am at Frisco Reedy HS & The Fields

GHS Varsity Baseball

vs Keller Timber Creek

March 29th at 7:30pm at Keller Timber Creek HS

GHS Band NTCA Championships

March 31st at Flower Mound

to the big blue bin that is located on campus.

World Wear Project will pay the school for every pound of shoes, clothing, purses, wallets, hats,

backpacks and toys that are donated to the bin.

The money raised will benefit the Renaissance

GHS Choir Region 2 UIL Concert & Sightreading

April 2nd to 4th

program as well as the Teacher Appreciation programs at the school. www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 11

Ask The Expert: Home Design

NEED CURB

APPEAL? Focus On The Porch First

W

Change the style or color of your front door by painting it; use different hardware or buy a new door.

Add appropriate light fixtures to match the desired style you are going for.

hen it comes to any home upgrade, one of the first places we as homeowners turn to for change is the interior. We’ll load up on new light fixtures, buy new furniture, choose a warmer shade of paint, install granite countertops, hardwood floors, and switch out older appliances for stainless steel.

But what about the outside of the home –

architectural tips to give that older, outdated porch a much-needed facelift.

You’re probably thinking, “Well geez,

We realize the thought of beefing up your curb appeal can feel like an overwhelming project, so start small. And in terms of budgets, many of these ideas can be accomplished by repurposing the money you would normally be happy to spend redefining the interior of your home.

our “curb appeal?”

Mike! There are a million directions I

could go with that. It’s overwhelming.”

It’s true there are a billion design ideas to enhance the outside appearance of your

home, from subtle changes like improved

landscaping and a charming new mailbox to those that completely alter the facade.

But how about starting with the porch?

Think about it: a porch is the first thing visitors see when they walk up to your

house. I’d venture to guess it was probably the first thing you noticed when you

The ML Group is not just a build-fromthe-ground-up architect. Our reputation for creativity, experience, attention to detail, and sensitivity to economics and environmental issues consistently delivers results. Give us a call today!

Enhance architectural details to the ceiling (bead board, dropped beams, or a pattern like herringbone).

Change the look by staining or scoring the concrete floor. Most builders start by using plain concrete.

bought your house. You hesitated to do

anything about it then, so why not now?

At the ML Group, Inc., we design for the way you live – even if your style

has changed over the years. Here are just a few crafty and budget-friendly

12 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

by Mike Love ML Group, LLC. 972.355.8700 MLGroupTexas.com

Enhance details, like adding cedar or metal accents, corbeling, or shutters.

www.LantanaLiving.com

LANTANA COMMUNITY CHURCH

Easter Egg Hunt Sat., April 20th 9:30am - noon

2200 E Jeter Rd. • Bartonville, TX 76226

www.LantanaLiving.com

FREE

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 13

7 Health Article

TOP

BENEFITS

ofALOE VERA

E

by Steve Gamel

veryone is out there looking for that wonder drug that can cure all types of ailments with a single application. Whether that drug or cream exists is up for discussion, but one cure-all that has been around for centuries is aloe vera.

I know what you’re thinking, “What? You mean that stuff my mom used to slather on

my back when I got a really bad sunburn as a child?” Yes. That’s exactly what we are talking about, though this gelatinous substance that can be found in grocery stores and pharmacies nationwide offers so much more than just being a cure for a sunburn.

Will it cure everything? Probably not. But there is an entire industry devoted to it as it can be used in everything from cosmetics and soap to moisturizers, shaving cream, and more. It can also be taken orally or in cream or gel form.

Here are a few ailments or other conditions that can be lessened or cured by using aloe vera.

BURNS We mentioned sunburns, but it can also be good if you accidentally put your hand on a hot stove or were burned in some other way. Not only does it help with the pain, but it can reduce healing time.

your teeth and close to your gums.

HEARTBURN RELIEF According to healthline.com, consuming one to three ounces of aloe gel at mealtime could reduce the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other digestive-related problems.

been known to improve skin elasticity and,

CONSTIPATION Studies on aloe vera being a potential laxative are mixed, but many people do believe it offers benefits in moderation.

juice per day can cause blood sugar levels

DENTAL PLAQUE Your dentist likely sounds like a broken record every time he or she tells you that you have too much plaque buildup on

these harmless sores, and aloe vera may

Aloe vera juice has been proven to act in the same way as standard mouthwash.

IMPROVE SKIN AND LESSEN WRINKLES

Everyone wants to look younger, right?

Topical applications of aloe vera have also in some cases redness in the skin, when used regularly over time.

LOWER YOUR BLOOD SUGAR

Also according to healthline.com,

ingesting two tablespoons of aloe vera

to drop in people with Type 2 diabetes.

MOUTH ULCERS

Everyone is looking for ways to get rid of do the trick. Rather than let it heal on its

own, aloe vera can reduce the size of the canker and decrease pain.

Bottom line, there are a variety of uses for aloe vera, but when in doubt, consult your primary care physician about aloe vera and any other natural remedies that could help.

14 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

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www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 15

Business Spotlight

Tips for

D.I.Y.

I

Spr ng

CLEANING

by Steve Gamel

t’s that time of year for some good, old-fashioned spring cleaning, and who

could blame you if your first thought

is to call Debbie Sardone at Buckets &

Bows Maid Service – one of the largest

independent maid services in the nation.

They’re local and have a knack for taking an overwhelming chore like spring cleaning and making it look easy.

But a hallmark of this company, which Debbie started more than 35 years ago from the trunk of her car, is its

commitment to training and education. In fact, Debbie teaches residential cleaning

companies around the world how to clean efficiently and consistently and coaches

them how to grow a successful business too. So while Debbie is happy to do the dirty work for you, she’s just as eager to lend a few helpful tips if you’re spring cleaning on your own.

“How do you eat an elephant?” she says.

“The answer is one bite at a time. That’s

how you tackle spring cleaning. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming.”

Debbie says the first step is knowing the

different types of cleaning and giving each its time. There’s every day cleaning like

picking up around the house, and there’s the routine cleaning to be done weekly or every other week like vacuuming

the rug and cleaning the toilets. Spring

cleaning is done once or twice a year and 16 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

includes hand cleaning all of the surfaces in your home and doing some purging and decluttering, too. It’s a big job that could take up your entire day, but you only tackle it once or twice a year, and Debbie makes it easier with these tips. She says:

• Don’t confuse or combine the types of cleaning – Choose to do one type of cleaning at a given time and stick to it. Keep up with your every day, weekly, and spring cleaning – at their time – and no cleaning jobs will be overwhelming.

• Time block – Commit to a block of time for the cleaning you’ve chosen and let the other cleaning go for the time being. Don’t decide to declutter your closets when it’s time for everyday tidy-up cleaning.

Work in one room at a time and follow the 13 Speed Cleaning™ rules like working top to bottom, left to right.

• Dress for the job – Wear your cleaning clothes, not your bathrobe and slippers!

• Limit distractions – Music is helpful and motivating. TV is not.

• And a favorite tip from the cleaning techs at Debbie’s Buckets & Bows Maid Service – Use baskets! They are perfect for quickly getting clothes, papers and toys out of sight and also

for moving items from where they are to where they belong.

Another secret to success is using quality cleaning products and tools. Debbie is a fan of products from Speed Cleaning™.

She’s used them for 25 years in her

customers’ homes. She’s such a fan that,

when the company came up for sale eight years ago, she and her husband, Steve, bought it. Speed Cleaning™ products

have a loyal base of fans all over the world, and Debbie wants the local community to

know about them too. Products like Speed Cleaning’s non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners like RED JUICE™ and high-quality tools

like the signature Speed Cleaning™ apron make spring cleaning a little easier on

everyone – whether you’re a professional cleaner or a homeowner.

“The perfect weekend doesn’t begin with

a bucket and a mop,” Debbie says. “That’s why busy families rely on Buckets & Bows Maid Service to help create free time

for doing things they want to be doing,

and DIYers look to Speed Cleaning™ for expert techniques and products.”

READY FOR YOUR SPRING CLEANING? • Follow the 13 Speed Cleaning rules (www.speedcleaning.com/rules).

• Train yourself using Speed Cleaning’s training materials, including the

Speed Cleaning and Spring Cleaning instructional books by expert Jeff Campbell (a regular collaborator with Debbie). Available at www.thecleanteam.com.

• Invest in excellent tools such as

eco-friendly cleaners and cleaning

products at www.thecleanteam.com.

Not excited about spring cleaning on your own? Turn it over to the pros! Schedule

your spring cleaning with Buckets & Bows Maid Service by calling 972-219-0400.

Lantana Living readers get $50 off a spring cleaning scheduled in March or April. Call for details.

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 17

Ask The Expert: Fitness

Getting A Summer Body Means

STARTING SOONER

THAN LATER

S

pring has sprung, the weather is warming up, and you just realized that you are nowhere close to being ready to wear a bathing suit. Luckily, you are not alone. Many people find themselves wanting to get that coveted summer body, trim some fat, and build some lean muscle all in time for those brutally hot, summer months. Unfortunately, the biggest mistake people make is waiting until the last possible moment to hit the gym or start eating healthy. As the famous saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” This is especially true for getting in peak physical shape.

One of the most effective, healthiest, and

of an instructor as well as surrounded by

muscle for a summer body, is through

fitness group, you can get over the mental

fastest ways to shed fat and gain lean group-oriented training sessions. In

particular, group training or a FitCamp class. In a FitCamp or group training session, you don’t work out as hard or as often

as you feel. Instead, you exercise as intense and

frequently as your group and instructor leads you.

By allowing yourself to

be under the guidance

18 | LANTANA LIVING

encouragement within the rest of your

and physical barriers you would otherwise stop at on your own. It is here that most

people start to notice drastic changes in

...the greatest motivation to reach your summer body goals comes from those around you.

| FEBRUARY 2019

their physical fitness as well as their appearance.

of your fitness group, you not only get pushed to a level beyond what you could accomplish on your own but discover that the greatest motivation to reach your summer body goals comes from those around you. Healthy competition within a group of like-minded partners is one of the best, if not the best, methods of developing your physical fitness level. In the world of professional athleticism, not only practice, but games revolve around competition; it’s what breeds excellence.

In a hurry to get that summer body you’ve always dreamed of? Consider the benefits of a convenient, come at your own time, FitCamp or small group training where you can work directly with our trainers to track and measure your success. At Jesse James Fit & Outlaw FitCamp, our members have collectively lost thousands of pounds during our six-week challenge.

So while summer may be three months away, it is never too early to start the long road to elite physical fitness. Don’t wait until the last few weeks of Spring to finally pull the trigger!

If you’re ready to commit to get in the best physical shape of your life, give us a call today at 972.355.2639 or visit us online at www.jessejamesfit.com or for any of our locations through DFW www.outlawfitcamp.com

Shedding fat and building muscle is a long and daunting process if

undertaken on your own.

However, within the confines

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

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 19

Classic of Denton

Local Military Veteran

by Steve Gamel

I

t’s no secret that giving back to the community is an everyday practice for the team at Classic Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram and Classic Mazda of Denton. But in all the years they have selflessly served those around them, they hadn’t had the opportunity to give back to the Military veterans who risk their lives to protect our freedom.

That all changed this February when General Manager Rick Wick, along with longtime owner Richard Allen, presented United States Marine Corps Sergeant Kenneth Rolon with a 2019 Ram Lonestar Crew Cab Classic.

20 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

The presentation was part of a joint effort

Wick said Classic was

Military Warriors Support Foundation, which

and the Military Warriors

between Classic, Wells Fargo Bank, and the honored Sergeant Rolon, a Denton native,

through its Transportation4Heroes program.

The Transportation4Heroes program is designed to help veterans successfully photo courtesy of Slade Meadows

transition back to civilian life by providing

access to reliable transportation as well as mentoring opportunities.

Sergeant Rolon was part of a presentation on February 9 at a UNT men’s basketball game. On February 21, Classic hosted a separate event at its dealership, where

Sergeant Rolon officially received the keys to his new truck.

chosen by Wells Fargo Support Foundation,

which chose Sergeant

Rolon but were in search

of a dealership to partner with. Wick said those

organizations reached out to UNT, which

suggested Classic as the perfect partner.

This year alone, Classic of Denton

adopted 119 children that are homeless yet attend school in the Denton

Independent School District, and

provided 330 learning cards to the

Gonzalez School in Denton. Classic also

“It was a very quick deal where we only

adopted 134 children for the Friends

visited with Richard, and he said let’s go

which gives assistance to mothers and

had two weeks to pull it all together. I

of the Family Denton organization,

for it,” Rick Wick said. “Our

children who are victims

to be recognized. They

and sexual assault. The

and our country. They go

children of Giving Hope,

one way to give back and

based organization that

military veterans deserve

of domestic violence

risk their lives to protect us

organization adopted 56

through so much, so this is

Inc., which is a Denton-

show our appreciation.”

assists individuals and

Sergeant Rolon grew up in Queens, New

families who are homeless or at risk

the events of 9/11. He began his service

financial aid, assistance with housing,

had a tour in Afghanistan and as part of a

and basic necessities.

York and chose to join the Marines after

of becoming homeless by providing

in 2004 and twice went to Iraq. He also

job training, transportation, childcare,

Marine Expeditionary Unit before being

Classic of Denton’s giving campaign

honorably discharged in 2012.

didn’t stop there as it adopted 24

He is a Purple Heart recipient and

children for Lake Cities Church and

Defense Service Medal, Global War on

Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s

Action Ribbons, and four Sea Service

history of offering healing and

was also recognized with a National

21 children and six mothers through

Terrorism Service Medal, two Combat

Home, which has a proud

Deployment Ribbons, among others.

hope to vulnerable children,

Sergeant Rolon and his wife, Jodalys, met as teenagers and have been married for 12 years.

“He’s a down-to-earth individual, and

it was a pleasure meeting him and his family,” Wick said.

www.LantanaLiving.com

the homeless and is also open anytime the temperature outside is above 80 degrees or below 38 degrees. Our Daily Bread, which provides nutritious meals, special services, and referrals for other services to those in need, received a cash donation of $3,000 along with prepaid gift cards – all courtesy of Classic of Denton.

Through the efforts of the Classic of Denton employees, customers, and vendors, over $40,000 was collected.

The Friday before Christmas, all Classic managers contributed $2,100 as a gift to Crosstimbers Church, on behalf of owner Richard Allen. Mr. Allen then matched a check for $2,100 for a total of $4,200 to Crosstimbers Church.

Last, but certainly not least, Classic donated $3,000 to the Bedtime Rescue Program, which was founded in December 2012 through Cloud 9 Charities.

Adding military support to their endless good deeds was a no-brainer, Wick said.

“The spirit of giving back is definitely infectious throughout our entire dealership staff,” Rick Wick said. “Our employees are determined to set the goals higher every year and challenge themselves to make the biggest impact we can for those in need right here in Denton.”

teens, and families. It also

donated sheets, gift cards,

backpacks, and hoodies to

the Monsignor King Outreach Center of Denton. The

outreach center opens on

December 24 every year for

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 21

Renowned Speaker

ALEX SHEEN COMING TO GUYER

by Steve Gamel

creator of the non-profit organization,

Because I said I would, will be speaking to the entire student body at a special assembly on April 2nd at 3pm.

The purpose of the event is to zero in on character education amongst teens to

help reduce incidences of bullying and

self-injurious behaviors while improving academic success. Alex’s non-profit is

dedicated to the betterment of humanity

photo courtesy of Alex Sheen’s Facebook Group @Because I Said I Would

G

uyer High School officials announced recently that Alex Sheen, a renowned speaker and

BECAUSE I SAID I WOULD

through promises made and kept. He

believes the consequences of broken

promises plagues the world, and nothing

about that is going to change unless there is something to change it.

His non-profit has inspired others to be aware of their commitments to themselves, others, and their community and has

campus,” said Rebekah De Peo-Christner,

integrity, the reputation you have built will

counselor at Guyer. “We felt Alex’s

on. So build a good one.”

a 9th and 10th grade student assistance

message was something that would leave a lasting impression on our Wildcats.”

De Peo-Christner added,

“During Alex’s TCA speech

distributed more than 10.3 million Promise

“We felt Alex’s message was something that would leave a lasting impression on our Wildcats.”

Cards to over 153

different countries.

“After hearing Alex

Sheen speak at the Texas Counseling

Association (TCA)

Conference in November,

Christina Dorton and I were

eagerly wanting to bring Alex to Guyer to speak to all 2,700 students at our 22 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

he spoke about how

in order to keep our promises it may

mean we must walk the journey alone.

That really stuck with

me; how sometimes

keeping a promise can

be a difficult, lonely journey

but one we must do. I always

try to remind my Wildcats that when we are faced with others questioning our

be the foundation others will judge you Alex Sheen has been featured on

CNN, ABC with Diane Sawyer, the

Today Show, and TEDX Talks. According

to De Peo-Christner, the Guyer Upstanders were able to raise the $2,000 needed to bring Alex to Guyer. Their sponsors are

M Squared Real Estate, Counseling Center of Denton, Viking Irrigation, Huffines Kia Subaru Denton, Blissfully Organized, and Marcos’s Pizza.

The school will be doing more fundraising through Marco’s Pizza March 25-27th.

If you place an order at their Denton

location off Teasley Lane, proceeds go to the Upstanders and this event.

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 23

Ask The Expert: School Days

then minutes. If their work is broken down into manageable chunks, they won’t feel

HOW TO END

Homework STRUGGLES

by Valorie McGilvra

R

esearch shows that students earn higher grades, get better attendance, are more motivated,

and less likely to drop out of school when their families are involved in

their education. By creating a home

material (ask your child’s teacher what

tools would be helpful). Encourage family members to support this study time so

that there are minimal distractions around.

Establish a Daily Routine for Homework

environment that encourages learning

Make a homework plan with your child

up for success and eliminate evening

them what they like and don’t like.

and schoolwork, you will set your child struggles. Establish a special place and daily routine for homework, support

your child by helping them break down assignments into manageable chunks, and hire a tutor if necessary.

Designate a Study Area that is Special Personalize the study area with your child’s

so it is clear to everyone. Discuss with Try asking these questions: Do you

want to study right when you get home,

so overwhelmed. A written schedule works best so your child knows the expectation.

Provide Your Child with Scaffolds Think of a scaffold used by a builder.

It supports the worker as they work in

hard to reach areas. The goal is to give your child more structure and support

then gradually take away a little at a time

as you see they can work independently.

All along, you are not telling them what to do but rather asking questions and helping them find their own way.

Create a plan to start the assignment

and how much they will complete in say

10 minutes, then take a break. If they can at least start the first problem it will help motivate them.

Get a Tutor If you don’t have the time to sit down

and help your child, or there is a struggle, then tutoring might be an option.

The Denton Public library offers free homework help for members.

or do you need a break? Do you like to

Homework may be tough to get your

with the family? Once you’ve established

benefits that your time and commitment

study when it’s quiet and alone or out

child to do. However, there are so many

a routine, stick to it.

are worth it. Students need to develop

Getting Started

good study habits and positive attitudes.

It can teach them to work independently

accomplishments, pictures, awards, comfy

Have your child open their homework

and encourage self-discipline and

that are only used for homework such as

them organize their papers and create a

some children with their first chance to

seating, desk, and a basket of supplies

pencils, sharpener, paper, and references

24 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

folder or log into their assignment. Help

responsibility — assignments provide

plan of action. Do this for the week, day,

manage time and to meet deadlines.

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 25

E.P. RAYZOR’S

TEACHER Of The Year

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

T

he close-knit staff of E.P. Rayzor Elementary are devoted to providing a premier learning experience for their students. Dawn Vaughn, one who truly embodies the intrinsic nature of an educator, has been chosen as their 2018-19 Teacher of the Year.

examples of what a teacher and specially designed “Mrs. Vaughn is one of can and should be...” teaching methods in the the most dedicated, classroom to assist her talented teachers I students throughout their educational have had the pleasure of working with development. To no surprise, her work in my career; her passion for students earned her the title of Teacher of the Year. and their learning is her gift,” E.P. Rayzor 26 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

photo courtesy of Mrs. Vaughn

With 42 years of experience in the field, Principal Mary Dunlevy stated.

Mrs. Vaughn has taught a variety of “So many students have benefited different subjects to students of all ages from her knowledge and skill.” as a Qualified Dyslexia Therapist. She Students with dyslexia experience currently works with students from second difficulty reading and processing to fifth grade. Mrs. Vaughn has made a language; this interruption in the learning lasting impact the past nine years she has process can often frustrate served at E.P. Rayzor and dishearten those and will retire this year “This award is very special pursuing an education.

– leaving her stamp to me because of the staff Closing in on a decade at on the education I worked with; each one of program within the E.P. Rayzor, Mrs. Vaughn the teachers are wonderful has used private therapy Lantana community.

“This award is very special to me

because of the staff I worked with;

each one of the teachers are wonderful examples of what a teacher can and

should be,” Vaughn said. “Lantana is fortunate to have the administration and faculty I have worked with.”

Despite her upcoming retirement, she

has decided to return to her hometown of Ardmore, Oklahoma and focus on amending and reforming Dyslexia

Education. Having earned the necessary

credentials, Mrs. Vaughn intends to teach other certified teachers how to teach

dyslexia therapy on a national platform.

Her dedication to enlightening

educators of the benefits of teaching

through a multi-sensory approach allows for learners of all levels to find success.

“I have taught undergraduate classes in

reading and participated on committees for curriculum on college campuses,” she said.

“Each time I work with higher education, I find the curriculum falling short on foundational skills for preparing new teachers on the science of the English language.”

The knowledge Mrs. Vaughn imparted on the teachers and students of E.P. Rayzor,

as well as local dyslexia therapists, helped bring awareness to the importance of

schooling in the appropriate manner to those involved in the development of

reading and writing skills. Her presence

enhanced the educational system within Lantana. The community congratulates

her for this honor and holds the utmost confidence her work will continue to

improve the education of any campus she serves.

“Students of every age can get excited about learning and understanding the

science of reading and writing. The reward is in their success,” Vaughn stated. www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 27

Ask The Expert: Gardening

GET YOUR LAWN

Spring Shape In

W

e’ve had some cold days and still might be in for few more but with the Bradford pear

don’t waste time back-tracking, stick with

blooming, Spring is approaching! We’re

mowings. As the grass starts to turn, train

trees starting to turn and dogwoods

focusing this article on information that

should be helpful in the preparations of your own lawn/landscape.

Such a mild winter could have you looking

the spray treatments (most retail sprays are going to be recommended on a

bi-weekly basis) and consistent bagged it to a conservative watering schedule, consistent chemicals, and mowing. It’s

simple but the consistency is KEY. Do this and you will see results.

at a lawn full of weeds about now. If so,

If things weren’t cleaned up in late fall,

company just yet, then let’s get to work!

ready for that spring growth. If you haven’t

and you’re not ready to call the chemical For some immediate results find a point

and spray post-emergent (add some color so you can track what you’ve covered as you go). Your first pre-emergent should

have been down a few weeks ago. If not,

28 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

then get it all cut back, reshaped and

can get hard over the course of a year.

Turning it over and allowing the oxygen/ nutrients to really penetrate is always a good idea. Consider your plant needs, sun exposure and soil conditions when choosing a mulch. Color typically dictates what direction people go, but there are so many other benefits to consider than just aesthetics.

We could write 10 pages on spring landscape prep. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer then you’ve probably already got a plan in place. If not, get on it or call a professional before you walk outside, notice everything is overgrown, and it’s too late to cut it back without damage.

We consider ourselves to be “small” local business, only servicing a few hundred lawns a week and having done so for the past 6+ years. In that time,

the number of unlicensed, illegal and uninsured maintenance workers has at least tripled. We encourage everyone this year, especially in our competitive markets, to try and see past the benefit of the immediate cheap price and look into the future of our communities. There are hundreds of knowledgeable, tax paying local businesses that do great work, while also giving back and investing in our communities. Please consider supporting those who support our community.

taken the time to remove the old mulch before adding new for the last couple

growing seasons, then do so this year.

Make sure you cultivate the bed soil and add fertilizer while it’s exposed. Our soil

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 29

Ask The Expert: Counseling

I AM...

WHO AM I ANYWAY?

having an emotion. I am not my emotions.”

Some people have been taught, “because you feel this way, you must be this way.”

This is not true. It is possible for us to be polite, compassionate, and fun-loving persons who experience anger (or

disappointment, sadness, fear, etc.). The

experience of an emotion does not make us that emotion. When we separate our

sense of self or “I” from the emotions, we can become more objective. An overidentification with emotion will almost always elicit some sort of behavior or

S

o, I’ve pondered this more than once, “Who am I?” This question, so deep, and maybe a little hippiedippie, can create some profound introspection. Yoga teaches us that our personal life experience is created by many different perceptions of self, the Koshas. The yoga term Kosha translates to “veil.” It is a term used to describe the things that hide our true self. “I am” is the most powerful statement when it comes to self-identification. All too often, we use the phrase “I am” out of context. We can begin to identify with things around us and in us that is not us. I like to refer to this as a form of mistaken identity. Meditation and movement in a yoga class help us to clearly identify what we are not so that we can in some way begin to know ourselves; also known as self-realization.

30 | LANTANA LIVING

and enables us to realize, “I am a human

| FEBRUARY 2019

On this path to self-realization, a yoga

therapist can help us to identify harmful “I am” statements that we connect to

our emotions. Notice when you feel an emotion and how you communicate

it. Let’s use the emotion of anger as an

example. When you’re feeling angry, do you

say, “I am angry,” or “I

am feeling angry?” The phrases are so similar.

However, the language

we use can in some way tell us if we are self-identifying with an emotion (being an emotion) or observing the emotion

(having self-awareness). Thinking, “I am angry,” is the form of mistaken identity.

The “I am” statement can be self-

prophesizing and creating more anger, thus, keeping us in a perpetual state of

disease. The phrase, “I am feeling angry”

helps us to depersonalize the experience

action that is out of character. Objectivity keeps us connected to our sense of

self, and thus, we stay more emotionally centered, and act more like ourselves.

So, as we ponder, “Who am I?” as a

question, it can be helpful to use the

process of elimination. Identify the body,

breath, mind, thoughts, perceptions, and emotions, then declare: “I am not my

body, I am not my breath, I am not my

mind, I am not my thoughts, perceptions,

and emotions.” So, what are we left to be?

We are all being human. Human beings or humans being. Affirming our human experience, we can simply affirm, I am alive.”

by Skila Ramirez, C-IAYT, 500 ERYT, Yoga Therapist Hopemead Counseling & Trauma Center www.hopemead.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

Oral HEALTH MATTERS Your

A

by Dr. Matt Artho, dentist & owner of Country Lakes Family Dental

specific author I enjoy reading delivered an inspirational “selfhelp” book in which one of his

lessons for life is to “take care of yourself

Bridges

as though you are taking care of someone

Implants

you care about.” It seems like a trivial

Dentures

some will focus on ensuring their loved

Invisalign

®

Root Canals Orthodontics Cosmetic Dentistry Same-Day Crowns

940.455.7645

www.CountryLakesDental.com info@countrylakesdental.com 74 McMakin Road | Bartonville, TX 76226

message, but it happens all too often that ones are following a strict health routine

while disregarding their own. Moreover, even certain health priorities are put

on the back-burner, even though they

constitute a greater precedence of our overall wellbeing than we assume.

I witness these situations often as

I observe patients disregarding their

oral health for the sake of their loved

ones – or even at the expense of their overall health.

More so, these days, we are discovering strong links that associate dental

health with overall systemic conditions.

Coincidentally, a recent article further supports a strong relationship to

periodontal health and Alzheimer’s. As

dentists, periodontal health is a concern

as bacteria within the gums not only can www.LantanaLiving.com

result in loss of the supporting bone around teeth but can also enter the

bloodstream – aggravating common health conditions. The new study

explains how the periodontal bacteria, p. gingivalis, can result in an immune

response that can kill neurons resulting

in symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s.

In addition to the previously

mentioned oral health association,

patients with gum disease are at risk for certain heart diseases. Accumulated

oral bacteria that spread throughout the bloodstream can provoke or augment

certain heart conditions like endocarditis.

Proper oral hygiene is also crucial

for people with diabetes, as strong

associations between diabetes and

gum disease exist. Of course, any dental

infection possesses the risk of spreading to crucial anatomy that can result in compromising complications.

Let’s make a concerted effort to appreciate all aspects of our health are important,

including our oral health. Remember, by

taking care of ourselves; we can continue to take care of those who need us most.

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 31

A Local Spa That

CARES FOR YOU AND

972.318.3600 www.Studio360MedSpa.com 2300 Highland Village Rd., Bldg. 3, Ste. 300 Highland Village, TX 75077 Hours: M-F: 10am - 6pm | Sat: 10am - 4pm 32 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

YOUR SKIN

by Steve Gamel

www.LantanaLiving.com

D

onna Phillips will be the first to tell you she doesn’t have a background in the med spa industry. She didn’t go to school to learn the latest advancements in helping women and men find the fountain of youth, nor is she a medical director with a wall full of degrees. In fact, before four months ago, she never dreamed of being a partner in a popular spa.

But she is a savvy business owner and a

balanced. And yes, if you aren’t happy

friends with those who are – which is why

are endless. It’s a 360-degree studio.”

loyal client who has always been close

it didn’t take long for her gears to start

churning when one of those dear friends was searching for a new opportunity.

“She reached out to me, and I remember

thinking, ‘What a great idea!’” Donna said with a laugh.

Sponsored Content

We’ll tell you more about their

conversation in a minute, but that great idea turned out to be Studio 360 Med

with your outer appearance, the options Studio 360 Med Spa opened November 2nd to rave reviews, and it’s a business

model none of them had seen before –

at least not locally. Alysee was the friend Donna referred to earlier, and the two longtime residents found themselves

wracking their brains trying to come up with something for Alysee that felt like the right fit.

photography by Your Candid Memories (YourCandidMemories.com)

Spa in Highland Village, a full-service

The more they got to talking, the more it

removal and skin tightening to Botox and

their own place.

spa dedicated to everything from hair

PRP injections, CoolSculpting, hormone therapy, regenerative treatments, and more. Surrounding Donna, who runs

the behind-the-scenes stuff, is a team of dedicated professionals that includes two on-site medical directors.

And naturally,

their goal is to

make a difference in everyone’s life. So if

you’re a young adult with acne problems, those issues can be fixed at Studio 360

Med Spa. If you’re a

woman who is going through

menopause or is having intimacy problems, that can be fixed, too.

Their list of services truly run the gamut.

“Short of being sick, we can help you feel

better,” said partner Alysee Compton, who joked the spa doesn’t even have enough

brochures to list all the services. “We have IV therapy, B12 shots, and we can fix your hormones if you need help being more www.LantanaLiving.com

became apparent they needed to open “Alysee and I grew up here, but I

found myself driving to Fort Worth and

Southlake for Botox and fillers. It felt like those places were big chains; they

didn’t feel like home,” Donna said. “Alysee wanted the right fit so she could

keep working, so I told her, let’s just sit down and talk through it.

We thought maybe

we could create that

home on our own.”

Alysee agreed.

“Something Donna

always says that sticks to me

like glue is, ‘I’ve got this,’” she said.

“It took a couple of conversations, and then it just happened.”

You would think a venture like this takes

time to gain traction in a community like Denton County, but everything fell into

place rather quickly – especially when it came to finding a rockstar team. Along

with Alysee, who has been in the business

for more than 30 years, they have resident

doctors John Delumba (OB/GYN) and Tom Olmsted (ER) and client favorites like Ryndi Hoge, a professional laser tech with a wealth of experience in microblading, registered nurses, Julie Carriker and Michelle Shepard, aesthetician, Kristen Clark, and Director of First Impressions, Glenna Bridges.

“We are very welcoming, and it’s a family.

You don’t always find that at other med spas,” Ryndi said. “It gets better and better around here every day. You can’t not be happy when you walk in the door and see Glenna smiling back at you.”

Glenna said it’s the entire team that makes the difference.

“It’s important to us that we make you feel important and wanted,” she said. “I come from a middle school background of 18 years, so I try my best to make sure everyone feels welcome from the second they walk in the door.”

Looking back on how everything played out, it’s clear the sky is the limit for this med spa. If you are looking to feel better about yourself inside and out, and you want to develop a bond with those who are helping you achieve the best version of yourself, there’s no other answer than Studio 360 Med Spa. “If you saw how this rolled out and came together as it did, you would know like we do that God had his hand in it and helped us put this together,” Donna said.

“Everything played out perfectly. It’s different here. It’s home.”

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 33

Cut Your Energy Usage & SAVE SOME MONEY

can also turn off your dishwasher’s drying cycle and air dry your dishes. This action

alone can reduce the total electricity your dishwasher uses by up to 20%.

To do even more, be sure to turn off lights in rooms that you’re no longer using.

Another helpful action you can take is

turning your water heater down from 140 degrees to 120.

It may sound difficult to get in the habit of

in late 2018 leading to a renewed outcry for preventative measures. With a problem this big, Texans have an obligation to do their part in fixing it.

county in its goal. When you use less energy, fewer fossil fuels are burned on account of your needs. To put all of this into perspective, just one light bulb swapped from a CFL model to a fluorescent model would be equitable to

Taking action is more important now than it’s ever been.

taking 1.3 million cars off the road.

One thing you can do to help is unplugging and shutting off the electronic

What Can You Do?

Reducing your energy consumption is

34 | LANTANA LIVING

one of the best ways you can join the

| MARCH 2019

devices you’re not currently using. You

doing all of these things. However, once you get started it’ll get easier and easier

to keep doing. Taking these simple steps

is a great way to reduce your energy costs as well since you’ll be consuming less energy overall.

Residents of Denton County can set an example for the rest of Texas to follow.

You can also reduce your own monetary consumption by following this advice.

Consider taking your first step towards energy use reduction today.

www.LantanaLiving.com

press release by Karoline Gore

C

limate change activists have sounded the alarm. The Arctic sea ice reached its lowest levels ever

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 35

www.LantanaLiving.com

Foodie Friday DFW: Verf’s Grill & Tavern

S

VERF’S Grill & Tavern

ome of our Foodie Friday DFW restaurants are especially near and dear to our hearts. And Verf’s Grill &

Tavern in Flower Mound is one of those.

The first time we visited Verf’s, we were

just a little-known food blog run by a real estate team – we were still trying to make our reputation and name known. But

topped with shrimp and a poblano cream; their Thick Cut Salmon Steak; and their Fish’n Chips!

And some of our other favorite “honorable mentions” on the menu are “The Bread” for an appetizer and their Chocolate Mousse Pie for dessert!

the whole team at Verf’s was incredibly

And we haven’t even mentioned their

entire experience special. And they’ve all

beers on tap, as well as a fabulous menu

excited to have us there and made our remained great friends ever since.

Fast forward to last February, Chef

Florencio and his team helped host an

INCREDIBLE 50th birthday party for me.

incredible bar yet. They have over 50

of hand-crafted cocktails. If you’ve never

had an Old Fashioned from Verf’s before, you need to! It’s one of the smoothest you’ll ever have.

The food was spectacular, the staff helped

Verf’s Grill & Tavern is the perfect location

care of, and the atmosphere (even with the

some drinks at the bar and watch a game,

all of our guests feel welcome and taken

torrential rain) was so fun and enjoyable.

It was definitely a birthday I’ll not soon forget thanks to them!

In addition to those particular fond memories of Verf’s, we’ve spent

anniversary dinners, client dinners,

Valentine’s dinners, work lunches, and

more with them. And each time, it’s been an out-of-this-world experience between the customer service and the food.

to eat out whether you just want to grab

sit out on their patio on a beautiful day, or enjoy a romantic evening out.

Chef Florencio promises that after you get to know them and what they do,

you’re going to keep coming back. And

he’s absolutely right! We (obviously) have

become big fans of Verf’s and are frequent visitors thanks to all of the fantastic experiences we’ve had with them.

972.317.3390 www.verfs.com 2221 Justin Rd., Suite 101 Flower Mound, TX 75028

So, let’s talk a little about the food, shall

we? When we visited this last time, Chef Florencio whipped up some of our

favorite dishes (which also happen to be some of their most popular), including: their Bone-In Pork Chop finished with

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com

Enchiladas stuffed with chicken and

1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022

a Wild Mushroom Sauce; their Verf’s

38 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

jay@jaymarksrealestate.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 39

Health Article

Inspiring OTHERS IN A FITNESS JOURNEY

by Steve Gamel

For Vicki, now 47, the tears streaming

Still too young to comprehend her mom’s limitations, Kelsey asked her mom to make a promise.

Guyer in 2015. Her journey from being

down her cheeks are happy tears.

Through the power of a strict lifestyle change, several dicey surgeries that were never promised to work, a local fitness guru and his staff who became like family, and good old-fashioned blood, sweat, and tears, Vicki walked with Kelsey when she graduated from bedridden and tipping the scales at 455

Confined To A Wheelchair

photographed above is Vicki Carter after her weight loss transformation.

40 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH FEBRUARY 2019 2019

“She said, ‘Will you promise me that when I graduate from high school, you will walk with me?’” Vicki said. “I promised her that mommy would try, and she never forgot. To this day, I still tear up about it.”

pounds to becoming one of Denton County’s most talked about personal trainers is inspiring everyone to hold out hope on their own road to recovery.

“I get emails, Facebook and Instagram messages from people all over the

www.LantanaLiving.com

photos courtesy of Vicki Carter

V

icki Carter must have played her daughter, Kelsey’s, innocent words over and over in her head a trillion times. Kelsey, just 6 at the time, was getting ready for her Pre-K graduation walk and wanted nothing more than to have mommy walk her across the stage. But Vicki, who because of a car accident that nearly took her life, was wheelchair-bound.

photographed above is Vicki (right) at her daughter’s, Kelsey (middle), high school graduation.

world, and it feels so great to be helping people,” Vicki said. “They tell me, ‘How can I tell you no? If you can do it, I can do it.’”

Vicki’s story is not

something you hear often. On June 29,

1999, she was on her way to work when a

drunk driver hit her.

change that included regular exercise,

Vicki said her journey is far from over, but

healthy eating habits, and a gastric

she hopes everything she’s done so far can

What happened next was extraordinary

Through the grace of

God, Vicki survived, though her legs

were disfigured and she was confined to a wheelchair.

Over the next 12 years, her weight gain ballooned out of control.

bypass surgery in 2012, Vicki ultimately lost 310 pounds over the next two years. Her dedication was so inspirational that Leyva and others helped raise funds so Vicki could have an additional surgery in 2014 to remove excess skin

that was causing complications.

“I couldn’t afford the surgery and was blown away by their generosity,” Vicki said.

“I kept asking why, and they kept saying that from the time I walked through the

In 2011, while waiting for Kelsey to finish a

door, I was always smiling no matter how

Leyva, playfully joked with Vicki.

I made the best out of even my worst

workout at Jesse James Fit, owner, Jesse “He kept asking me when I was going

to workout, too. I kept saying, ‘Are you

kidding? I can’t get out of this wheelchair,’” Vicki said. “But he was insistent. He said I could do it.”

much pain I was in. I never cheated, and possible day.”

The tipping point came when knee replacement surgeries in 2015 gave her the chance to walk – mere months before Kelsey was set to graduate from high school. That

What happened next was extraordinary.

also kickstarted a new career as a personal

his offer, but combined with a lifestyle

completed her certifications.

Not only did Vicki take Jesse up on

www.LantanaLiving.com

trainer as Leyva hired Vicki shortly after she

inspire others.

“When you start a weight loss journey, you don’t realize all the emotions you go through – especially when you lose the amount of weight I did,” Vicki said. “I was a single mother in a wheelchair; it wasn’t easy. But it was always a dream of mine to walk again, and no one was going to tell me I couldn’t. I kept playing my daughter’s words over and over in my head, and even if I couldn’t walk, I was going to do the best I could for her.”

Vicki walked with Kelsey when she graduated from Guyer in 2015 MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 41

one of the more recent ways crooks are scamming us out of our money.

According to several media outlets and the IRS, crooks are finding inventive ways to steal your data from legitimate tax professionals, including your bank account number if you’ve requested direct deposit for a refund. The scammer gives the IRS your information in the form of a fake return, then scares you with a phone call saying that you were a victim of tax fraud and to return the money.

TAX SCAMS TO BE

AWARE OF

by Steve Gamel

G

ood, honest taxpayers all over the world, including many unsuspecting residents right here

in Denton County, lose millions of dollars

•

A third party calls claiming the IRS has issued a warrant for your arrest

•

Someone claiming to be the IRS calls asking for credit card, bank account, or social security information

•

Phishing scams through email or phony website links

every year to illegal tax scams. Some

scams are very easy to spot while others

are so highly sophisticated that even the savviest person falls for them hook, line, and sinker.

Since we are in the

throes of tax season,

here are a few scams that prey on our fear of getting in trouble with the IRS. Be on high alert if you

According to the IRS website, the number of potential taxpayer victims from this particular scam jumped from a few hundred to several thousand in a matter of a few days last year.

or a loved one are

targeted by any of the following: •

Someone claiming to be an IRS agent calls demanding immediate payment for delinquent tax obligations

42 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

• Phony tax preparers passing themselves off as legitimate businesses • Someone promises free money in the form of inflated refunds

• Refund money shows up as a deposit in your bank account before you’ve even filed your return The last scam on this list is perhaps the most interesting of them all. It’s also

Of course, when you return the money, you are actually giving it directly to the crooks.

According to the IRS website, the number of potential taxpayer victims from this particular scam jumped from a few hundred to several thousand in a matter of a few days last year. Making things worse is that many taxpayers who receive these erroneous deposits end up spending the money or not following the proper steps to return the money directly to the IRS. The IRS wants everyone to know a good rule of thumb: when in doubt, assume it’s a scam. This is especially true if you’ve always filed your tax returns on time and have previously never been in trouble with the IRS. A few more things to keep in mind – straight from the mouth of the IRS. •

The IRS will never call you

•

The IRS will never send you a text message

•

The IRS will never send you an email

•

The IRS will never reach out through social media

•

The IRS will never ask you to divulge personal information (social security number, bank accounts)

The IRS has an entire page on its website dedicated to tax scams and consumer alerts. Everyone can visit that site and

learn more at www.irs.gov/newsroom/taxscams-consumer-alerts. www.LantanaLiving.com

4 THINGS EVERYONE

NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT

MEASLES

by Claire McCarthy, MD Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing (some areas amended by Rebecca Butler, MD)

W

e are in the midst of a measles outbreak here in the United States, with cases being

reported in New York City, New York

State, and Washington State. In 2018,

preliminary numbers indicate that there were 372 cases of measles — more than triple the 120 cases in all of 2017 — and

already 79 cases in the first month of 2019.

Five cases involving children between

12 and 21 months old have been reported in three Houston-area counties. Another

case has been confirmed in Bell County, and a seventh was

2. It’s Hard To Know That A Person Has Measles When They First Get Sick

The first symptoms of measles are a

high fever, cough, runny nose, and red,

watery eyes (conjunctivitis), which could be confused with any number of other viruses, especially during cold and flu

season. After two or three days, people

develop spots in the mouth called Koplik spots, but we don’t always go looking in our family members’ mouths. The

characteristic rash develops three to five

days after the symptoms begin, as flat red spots start on the face at the hairline and spread downward all over the body. At

that point you might realize that it isn’t a garden-variety virus — and at that point,

the person would have been spreading germs for four days.

3. Measles Can Be Dangerous Most of the time, as with other childhood viruses, children do fairly well. But there

can be secondary complications. Children

less than 5 years old and adults older than 20 are at highest risk of complications.

Common and milder complications include diarrhea and ear infections

(although the ear infections can lead to

hearing loss), and one

reported in Denton

out of four will need

County. There are four

to be hospitalized.

things that everyone

But there also can be

needs to know

serious complications:

about measles.

• Five percent of

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1. Measles Is

people with measles

Highly Contagious

get pneumonia. This

This is a point that

is the most common

enough. A full 90% of

the illness.

cause of death from

can’t be stressed

unvaccinated people

• One out of 1,000

exposed to the virus

get encephalitis, an

will catch it. And if you think that just

inflammation of the brain, that can

staying away from sick people will do the

lead to seizures, deafness, or even

trick, think again. Not only are people with measles infectious for four days before

they break out with the rash, the virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an

infectious person coughs or sneezes. Just

imagine: if an infectious person sneezes in an elevator, everyone riding that elevator

for the next two hours could be exposed. www.LantanaLiving.com

brain damage.

•

One to two out of 1,000 will die.

•

There is another possible

complication that can occur seven

subacute sclerosing panencephalitis or SSPE. While it is rare (four to 11 out of 100,000 infections), it is fatal.

4. Vaccination Prevents Measles The measles vaccine, usually given as part of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, can make all the difference.

One dose is 93% effective in preventing illness, and two doses gets that number up to 97%. In general, the first dose is usually given at 12 to 15 months and the second dose at 4 to 6 years, but it can be given as early as 6 months if there is a risk of exposure (as an extra dose — it doesn’t count as the first of two doses and has to be given after 12 months), and the second dose can be given as soon as 28 days after the first.

The MMR is overall a very safe vaccine.

Most side effects are mild, and it does NOT cause autism. Most children in the U.S. are vaccinated, with 91% of 19to-35 month-olds having at least one dose and about 94% of those entering kindergarten having two doses. To create “herd immunity,” which helps protect those who can’t get the vaccine (such as young infants or those with weak immune systems), we need about 95% vaccination, so the 94% isn’t perfect — and in some states and communities, that number is even lower. Most of the outbreaks we have seen over the years have started in areas where there are high numbers of unvaccinated children.

If you have questions about measles or the measles vaccine, talk to your doctor.

The most important thing is that we keep every child, every family, and every community safe.

Lantana Resident

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

to 10 years after infection, more

commonly when people get the infection as infants. It’s called

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 43

A Better

A LEGACY OF MAKING

PERSON Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Texas

by Steve Gamel

R

ick Troutman could spend all day sharing heartwarming stories that get to the core of why he and wife, Babs, have spent the last 14 years not only overseeing the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Texas – but making it their life’s work.

Like the day they stopped in for a treat at Sonic and were approached by one of the carhops. “Ms. Babs? Mr. Rick?

Is that you? It’s me … J.R. Remember me?” the boy said. The 16-year-old was a former regular at the Lake Dallas club five years earlier and couldn’t wait to tell his mentors how much he missed coming to the club.

Lastly, there was the time a young man showed up to the club specifically to show Rick his used pickup truck.

“To him, it might as well have been a Mercedes. And he was so proud to show it off to me,” Rick said with a smile. “I was so happy for him, and I was touched. I figured, ‘I guess we’ve done a pretty good job. He’s going to be OK.’” If anyone tells you they want to start a 501c3 non-profit because it’s easy, they’re lying. And Rick and Babs are prime examples. Babs took over the Lake Dallas location nearly 15 years ago, and since then they’ve added locations in Sanger, Denton, Lewisville, and Little Elm. Technically, Babs retired almost four years ago, but she has never completely stepped away. Together, the Troutmans do everything from hiring employees, seeking out donors and sponsors to keep the clubs running, raising money through various events,

ONE

There was also the time one of Rick’s employees got pulled over for speeding but got off with a warning when the officer realized she was trying to get to the club. He, too, was a former member at a San Diego club.

MISSION

KIDS

44 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

keeping tabs on the clubs’ books,

buying supplies – and oh yeah, making

sure kids are being raised to be quality

human beings and feel loved every step of the way.

That last part tends to get lost in

translation among many who think the Boys & Girls Club is simply

a daycare. Other preconceived

notions are that they only take bad

kids from poverty-stricken families

who live in bad neighborhoods.

“We take in some really good kids,”

Rick said. “Do we have people who live in low-income housing? Sure. But we also have kids who come from good

households. People volunteer and they

expect to see these rough kids with torn shoes, but what they get are sweet kids who say yes, ma’am and no, ma’am.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs is unlike other

non-profits in that they are a proactive organization. They keep things from

happening and ensure a child won’t go down the wrong path. Their mission is predicated on helping children reach

www.LantanaLiving.com

their full potential through everything from character development, education, health, leadership, and acceptance.

It’s like a mini city, and the kids who spend time there don’t care about color, culture, or how much money you have.

“If they have that mindset here, they’ll carry it with them,” Rick said. “That’s a big one for me. We are holistic in that we are trying to make a better person. That’s the impact we have on these kids.”

Slowly but surely, the Troutmans are finding ways to educate those around them and garner extra support. The Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Texas are coming up on their 25th anniversary later this year, and the Troutmans are gearing up for several of their mainstay events to drive more fundraising.

The biggest of those is their 13th annual golf tournament on April 25 at Lantana Golf Club. For the first time ever, this event has two title sponsors (Firestone and Interstate Battery) and is already completely paid for.

It’s a great spot to be in for a couple who has dedicated their lives to one mission – kids.

“I’m not sure we’ll ever get to the point where the clubs are financially sound, but if we can get enough people to understand what we are trying to do and support us, we can at least take care of the basic stuff,” Rick said. “Through all the things we go through, these kids are why we do this. We just care about the kids.”

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 45

Ask The Expert: Edit This

6 KEYS TO AN

EFFECTIVE RESUME

C

rafting a standout resume is easier said than done. You could be a young person fresh out of college

with only a few internships under your

belt, or a 30-year veteran with a seemingly

unending list of accomplishments. Clearly, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

What do you put on there? What do you leave off? What are the keywords I need to use to nab this job? The answers to

these questions are different for every job

hunter in every career field. What’s more is that I did a quick non-scientific poll of the internet and it appears most employers and recruiters only spend roughly six seconds reviewing a single resume.

Why do we even put in the time?

One of the many things I do at Edit This

is help business professionals craft their

resume. I take pride in it because I know

what it’s like to be on the job hunt. While

there is no one-size-fits-all approach, here are 6 tips to keep in mind:

Avoid grammatical errors

Just for grins, I went back and found my first resume. It was filled with so many punctuation mistakes and style errors

that I wish I could travel back in time just to slap my younger self. No employer

will take you seriously if your attention to

detail is that horrible. Read through what you have, then have someone you trust read over it.

Create a clear header

But it remains important to craft an

Make sure your header has all the

at all times. The emphasis should not only

name and updated phone number,

professional achievements, but doing

centered all in one easy-to-find and

count. If an employer really likes you,

No need to get cute; it makes the whole

amazing resume and to keep it up to date

necessary contact information (your

be on highlighting your educational and

email, address, etc.) and that it’s properly

so in a way that makes those six seconds

prominent location at the top of the page.

surely they will read deeper.

46 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

thing harder to read.

Own your summary statement There are recruiters and business professionals who don’t think having a summary statement near the top of your resume is important. I couldn’t disagree more. A summary statement allows you to quickly summarize your qualifications and what your objective is in a way that allows you to speak directly to whomever you are attempting to work for.

Stay organized Make sure everything on your resume is clearly organized and includes names of previous employers, positions held, responsibilities, and key dates worked.

Start with your most recent job and work back in reverse order.

Avoid generalities Highlight your educational and professional achievements, so make sure you are specific when you do that. Instead of saying, “responsible for increasing business,” you should be saying, “Increased sales revenue by 75% over a two-year span.”

Force yourself to have a cutoff point A general rule of thumb is to keep your resume to a page to a page and a half, including your education history, any certifications, and references.

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 EditThisLLC.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 47

Lantana Residents

MANAGED

EXCELLENCE IN

SERVICES

Recognized for

IT

by M3 Networks

M

3 Networks, providing WorldClass IT Services For Your Business, announced in a press

release last month that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named their company to its 2019 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer

250 category. This annual list recognizes North American solution providers with innovative approaches to managed

services. These services help customers improve operational efficiencies,

maximize return on IT investments, and continuously help them navigate the complexities of IT solutions.

Managed service providers are integral

to the success of businesses everywhere.

They empower companies to implement and operate complex technologies

while staying within their budgets and keeping focus on their core business.

CRN’s MSP 500 list identifies the most

a strong mix of on-premises and offpremises services; and the Managed Security 100, recognizing MSPs focused primarily on off-premises, cloud-based security services.

M3 Networks, which is based in Southlake but has ownership and employees who live in Lantana and service that area and the surrounding communities, was recognized by CRN as a Top Managed Service Provider because they are a customer service company first and always go the extra mile to serve clients and their community. They provide communication and technology that is always proactive, and they serve many clients right here in Denton County.

“Capable MSPs enable companies to take their cloud computing to the next level, streamline spending, effectively allocate limited

resources and navigate the vast field of available technologies,” said Bob Skelley, CEO of The Channel Company.

“The companies on CRN’s 2019 MSP 500 list stand out for their innovative services, excellence in adapting to customers’ changing needs and demonstrated ability to help businesses get the most out of their IT investments.”

“We are honored to be selected in this elite group,” officials from M3 Networks said. “We’ve built an amazing team and we love serving our customers and are excited to be a part of the Top Managed Service Providers in the nation!

The MSP500 list was featured in the February 2019 issue of CRN and online at www.CRN.com/msp500.

groundbreaking managed service

organizations, with advanced solutions that have endless potential for growth.

This annual list is divided into three categories: the MSP Pioneer 250,

recognizing companies with business models weighted toward managed

services and largely focused on the SMB market; the MSP Elite 150, recognizing large, data center-focused MSPs with 48 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

www.LantanaLiving.com

COME PARTICIPATE IN THE 3RD ANNUAL KIDS FISHING TOURNAMENT March 30th | 8am - 11am Located at the Argyle United Methodist Church North Central Texas College and Argyle United Methodist Church are hosting a kids fishing tournament.

Event proceeds go to North Central Texas College Students that are in need of additional financial support and Denton Wesley Foundation/Shiloh Food Pantry!

Pay Online at cfac.nctc.edu OR Pay At Event

PRE-REGISTRATION: $20 per child (ages 4-12) DAY OF EVENT: $25 per child (ages 4-12) Entry fee includes T-shirt, breakfast, bait, hook, bobbers, limited number of rods/reels. www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 49

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

C

aptain Jeff Davis is the SWAT Commander for the Denton County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team. The SWAT team is made up of 18 deputies who volunteer for this position, and all come from divisions within the Sheriff’s Office. SWAT team members have to apply and then pass a rigorous tryout which consists of a physical test, cognitive test, and firearms test. After the tryout, a board composed of senior SWAT personnel will meet to evaluate the applications and success of each candidate on tasks during the tryout. Recommendations are then made and sent to the Sheriff, who makes the ultimate decision.

Some of the scenarios the SWAT team deal with include: •

Barricaded people (mostly mentally ill individuals, drug addicts, suspects in crimes, or someone who has experienced a high stress event)

•

High Risk Search/Arrest Warrants

•

Hostage situations

•

Critical Incident/Active Shooter Response

•

Dignitary Protection

The Denton County SWAT team is responsible for mutual aid responses to smaller agencies in Denton County that require a SWAT response. The SWAT team also acts as advisors to smaller agency SWAT teams in Denton County and assist federal agencies with operations within Denton County. The Denton County SWAT team is also used for special operations – for example the recent online solicitation operation involving multiple agencies that was conducted in Denton County.

940.349.1600 | 127 N.WOODROW LN., SUITE 300 | DENTON, TX 76205 DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 50 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

EVENTS| NEWS Citizen Academy

Every Mon. for 10 Weeks Starting on MARCH 18th | 6:30 - 8:30pm Denton County Sheriff’s Office This is an awesome opportunity to experience how your Sheriff’s Office operates. The first class will start at 6pm.

Go to www.dentoncounty.com/sheriff

Women’s Empowerment Program (WEP)

MARCH 23rd Denton County Sheriff’s Office This is a self-defense class for females. You must register at wep@dentoncounty.com.

Go to our facebook page for information on a regular basis about our WEP.

ATTENTION THE DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS NOW HIRING DETENTION OFFICERS. You can apply online at www.dentoncounty.com/sheriff.

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 51

GUYER

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2019

by Steve Gamel

A

nother national signing day is in the books for Guyer High School, and once again a slew of prospects in multiple sports are moving on to the next level.

The Wildcats had 10 signees representing

Wood will both extend their running

recruitment ceremony on Feb. 6, which

get to do it close to home at UNT. In

four sports take part in the annual

has become the most widely publicized

recruiting day in the country. Many athletes from around Denton County, including

those from Guyer, made their commitments well in advance – but this was a chance to officially sign on the dotted line.

careers at the Division I level, and they football, Brent Jackson wrapped up his short commitment when he signed on the dotted line with Bucknell. He was

A&M-Corpus Christi. Austin McNair will

run cross country at Oklahoma Christian and baseball players Max McCready

and Zachary Cantu will move on to play at Eastern New Mexico and McPherson College, respectively.

Below is the list of everyone from Guyer who signed a National Letter of Intent on February 6.

FOOTBALL

Chad Aune, Stephen F. Austin

Lawrence Norton, Stephen F. Austin Brent Jackson, Bucknell CROSS COUNTRY

Jaden Reid, North Texas

Riley Wood, North Texas

Austin McNair, Oklahoma Christian

joined by the duo of Chad Aune and

GIRLS SOCCER

to Stephen F. Austin.

Maddie Janolo, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi

Lawrence Norton, who are both headed

Morgan Berres, Oklahoma Christian

Of Guyer’s 10 recruits, three were from

Rounding out the list of signings were

BASEBALL

country stars. Jaden Reid and Riley

Christian) and Maddie Janolo (Texas

Zachary Cantu, McPherson College

football and three more were cross

52 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

soccer players Morgan Berres (Oklahoma

Max McCready, Eastern New Mexico

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www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 53

G

old glitter will make the Denton Benefit League charity ball, “Putting on the Glitz”, sparkle on Saturday, April 6, at the Dallas/Fort Worth Marriott Hotel and Golf Club at Champions Circle.

The black-tie preferred seated dinner and dance will be joined with the In10city Band with a mixture of up beat dance music, country tunes, and some ballroom selections. There will also be a silent and live auction. Cocktails are at 6:30 p.m. and a seated dinner begins at 7:30 p.m.

THE GLITZ

54 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

The mission of Denton Benefit League is to raise funds for local philanthropic purposes and to promote volunteerism in the community. This organization shall be nonpolitical, nonsectarian, and nonprofit in all its policies and activities. Since 1973

fund raisers. The members of DBL contribute over 21,000 volunteer hours per year in the community.

For more information or additional information on how to purchase tickets please visit www.DentonBenefitLeague.org

press release by Denton Benefit League

PUTTING ON

Attendees can buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a pair of diamond peek a boo earrings donated by First People’s Jewelers for $25 per ticket or 5 tickets for $100.

DBL has awarded over $5.6 million to Denton County non-profits. This year 36 non-profit organizations were awarded over $240,000. The ball, the underwriters, and traditional tabloid are the biggest

www.LantanaLiving.com

Painting The World Beautiful

by Steve Gamel

Maithen is a third-generation, self-taught

artist who enjoys creating custom artwork such as abstract art, commercial art,

logos, children’s paintings, murals, geode

artwork, sports art, and more. Whether you need logo artwork for your coffee shop or a cartoon mural for your daughter’s bedroom, Maithen can paint it.

Many of those pieces are on display in the Lake Cities area, Lantana, Lewisville, and surrounding communities.

Photo courtesy of Freeform Amethyst Geode Art (Chance & Stephanie Post on the right, Maithen Elizabeth on the left)

M

aithen Elizabeth Fluhrer is on one knee next to a cute-as-a-button 7-year-old boy as he shows off his latest snow globe drawing. The boy has never met a real artist, and he’s grinning from ear to ear as she praises him for his choice of colors.

were there to view her paintings. It’s that

“You did such a great job!” she exclaims.

Custom Art By Maithen Elizabeth.

Maithen dropped everything to make that little boy feel like the most important artist in the room on a day when most people

“If you have a chance to spread a little

www.LantanaLiving.com

positive outlook on life, the willingness

to encourage a younger generation, and

desire to paint the world beautiful that has endeared her to residents and business

owners near and far through her company,

extra sunshine, then you should do it,” Maithen said.

“My calling in life is to make people happy with art,” Maithen said. “Sometimes, my

clients know exactly what they want. Other times, they have no idea – all they know is they want to fill a space. My goal is to adapt to each client’s situation.”

If you want to learn more, visit

maithenelizabeth.com. Maithen will also

be at a three-day art festival at Music City

Mall June 14-16 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 55

DENIM, DIAMONDS, & DICE: A TEXAS-STYLE CASINO NIGHT TO BENEFIT CHARITY

Friday, March 22nd | 7-11 pm | at Circle R Ranch | 5901 Cross Timbers Road • Flower Mound, TX 75022 Tickets are on sale at lantanaladiesleague.com

T

he Lantana Ladies League will once again present its signature Casino Night, open to everyone in Denton and surrounding counties, on Friday, March 22, 2019. The event will benefit Denton County Friends of the Family, which provides safety, hope, healing, justice, and prevention for victims of sexual and domestic violence.

“Denim, Diamonds & Dice: A Texas-Style Casino Night” will be held at Circle R Ranch and has something for everyone.

56 | LANTANA LIVING

| MARCH 2019

Come dressed in your finest “cowboy

The League would like to extend special

entertainment:

Group—Keller Williams. To inquire about

cocktail” attire to enjoy a wide variety of •

Traditional barbeque dinner

•

Casino table games (gamble with

funny money to earn a chance to win

thanks to our Title Sponsor: The Shimala additional sponsorships that are still

available, contact Committee Chair, Tami

Schmidt, at TamiSchmidt123@gmail.com.

prizes donated by local businesses) •

DJ and dancing

•

Mechanical bull

•

Silent Auction

For more information on Lantana Ladies League, go to lantanaladiesleague.com or visit the Lantana Ladies League Facebook page.

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 57

Ask The Expert: Organizing

The First Step To

CLEARING CLUTTER

W

hen your belongings are in your way, either physically or mentally, those belongings

have officially become clutter. I have

a simple rule of thumb for identifying clutter: Pick up an item and honestly

We may hold onto something we don’t

love or use simply because someone gave it to us. Getting rid of something that was gifted to us can sometimes carry huge

guilt. Keep in mind that clutter is a burden, so it’s OK to release the burden no matter

answer these two questions: 1) “Do I love

how it came into your life: a new store-

both questions, it’s clutter. Time to let it go.

family heirloom you inherited. These items

to clutter that no longer positively serves

intentions, but they have now become

let’s look at a few:

clutter. Let it go.

it?” 2) “Do I use it?” If you answer “no” to

bought gift, a used hand-me-down, or a

Easier said than done. We tend to hold on

may have been given to you with good

us. Why? There are multiple reasons, but

clutter. You have absolutely no use for

We hold on to clutter because it’s easier than dealing with it.

We hold on to clutter because of memories.

Closing the door on a cluttered room,

Objects hold memories for us: good and

old junk inside boxes is an easy, quick fix

attachment, and human beings struggle

shoving clutter under the bed, and stuffing when dealing with clutter, right? No!

The clutter is still there. Even if we can’t see it, we always know something feels

a little “off” or “heavy” when we are near it. That hidden clutter carries a lot of

mental weight. Avoiding the clutter isn’t fixing the problem.

We hold on to clutter because we have guilt.

58 | LANTANA LIVING

| FEBRUARY 2019

bad. These memories create an emotional with releasing emotional attachment.

This starts at a very early age in life. Small children get emotionally attached to a

favorite stuffed animal or a “lovey.” For

represents who you are right now. Then, ask yourself if you love or use the object.

No? Let it go.

We hold on to clutter because we get overwhelmed.

Not dealing with the clutter, having guilt associated with getting rid of the clutter, or being emotionally attached to clutter is all very overwhelming. It’s hard even to know where to start. Take a breath.

Tackle a little bit at a time. Sorting and decluttering is very time-consuming so show yourself patience, forgiveness, and kindness.

Sometimes, understanding why you have the habit of hanging on to things that no longer serve you allows you to move forward. Letting go of physical clutter can help clear some mental clutter.

Remember, if you get stuck Crystal with Cloud Nine Organizing can be reached at CloudNineOrganizing@gmail.com.

most of us, emotional attachment to

objects carries over into adulthood which makes decluttering some items very

difficult. The best way to deal with clutter

that holds memories is to honor yourself,

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

not the object. Ask yourself if this object

www.LantanaLiving.com

www.LantanaLiving.com

MARCH 2019 | LANTANA LIVING | 59

SERVICES

CROSSROADS BIBLE CHURCH

VALLEY CREEK CHURCH

8101 Justin Rd. • Double Oak, TX

5800 Long Prairie Rd. • Flower Mound, TX

www.crossroadsbible.org

valleycreek.org/flower-mound

April 21st Easter Services 9:15am, 10:45am

April 21st at 8am, 9:30am, 11:10am & 12:45pm

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ARGYLE 414 Hwy 377 • Argyle, TX www.fbcargyle.org April 21st Easter Worship 10:45am

LAMB OF GOD LUTHERAN CHURCH 1401 Cross Timbers Rd. • Flower Mound, TX www.log.org April 19th Good Friday Service 7:15pm April 21st Easter Services 6:30am, 8am, 10:30am

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| MARCH 2019

ST. MARK CATHOLIC CHURCH 6500 Crawford Rd • Argyle, TX www.stmarkdenton.org April 21st Easter Services 7am, 9am, 11:30am, 1:30pm (Spanish)

CREEKWOOD CHRISTIAN CHURCH 2660 Forest Vista • Flower Mound, TX www.creekwood.org April 21st Easter Services 9am, 11am

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