Life in Castle Hills Magazine August 2017

Bike Ride with

YOUR TRIBE

How to Deal with

MIGRAINES

Hebron Football

PREVIEW

PREMIER ISSUE - AUGUST 2017

The Leader in

Montessori

Education

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

CastleHillsMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Staff Writer

Susan Neuhalfen

Contributor Steve Gamel

Advertising Manager

Mendy Lea 214.228.5052 mendy@murray-media.com

Production

Welcome It

To Life in Castle Hills

is our pleasure to welcome you to Life in Castle Hills Magazine.

Inside these pages, you will find a variety of family and

community articles highlighting life in your neighborhood.

Featuring family-friendly, feel-good content with high visual appeal, Life in Castle Hills will bring home the stories of the men, women, children and businesses which you see every day in your life.

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Stephanie Hansen

As parents of four energetic children, we are active in our own community so we know what it means to be able to get to

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469. 583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Letters

Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of

Murray Media Group.

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries Call 972.899.3637

or email artwork@murray-media.com www.Murray-Media.com

Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101

FlowerT Mound, TX 75022 Life in Castle Hills is published monthly

by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Life in Castle Hills is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2017 Murray Media Group

know your neighbors and surroundings, and how important it is to enjoy the place in which you have chosen to live your life.

Staying in touch with your community enhances self-esteem, confidence, and creates a sense of ‘family’ that not all neighborhoods are blessed to experience.

Being involved where you live enhances your life in ways you don’t realize, until you find a place like Castle Hills, where you can

Local Business Spotlights, School News,

Community Sports, Castle Hills Exclusive News and more.

Life in Castle Hills would not be possible without the support of our advertisers.

In their efforts to support our local

community and its residents we are able to bring you this publication, so please

offer them your support as you shop for products and services in the area.

Let them know that you saw them in Life in Castle Hills.

really feel ‘at home’.

We welcome your feedback, family/

Residents can look forward to receiving

send them to artwork@murray-media.com.

Life in Castle Hills magazine the third weekend of each month. We want you to feel as though it is your magazine. Readers will find lots of local events and news, plus sections like Community Events,

company photos and story ideas so please

Please read more about us on Murray-Media.com

Follow Us on Facebook @ CastleHillsMagazine

Sincerly, Kelly & Scott Murray

Publisher & Editor kelly@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

Table of

Contents

16

On the Cover: The students and faculty that make Castle Hills Montessori so special.

Featured: Castle Hills Montessori: The Leader in Montessori Education Lifestyle 10 Counseling with Lifeworks 11 Events Around Castle Hills 12 Styles for the School Year 13 Gardening with Complete Solutions

Yourself

08 Editor’s pick: Bike Ride with Your Tribe

Family 22 Inside Community 23 Inside Education 24 Hebron Football Preview 26 Your Child’s Education 28 The Colony Football Preview 29 Low Carb Sugarless Snacks for Kids 30 Volleyball: Lady Hawks

18 Nutrition with Savory Bistro

Photos from Castle Hills

21 Edit This with Steve Gamel

25 Bring the Wood Stick

Find out How to Deal with Those Horrible Migraines

14

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

by Susan Neuhalfen

Lifestyle

H

ave you ever seen an idea in another country and thought to yourself that that would be a great product to try in the US?

Denton resident Aaron Powell did just that.

The former middle school band director spent two months in Malmo, Sweden, with his wife and two young children and became engrossed in the cycling culture.

Located just across the Oresund from

He found the right factory, the right parts

of transportation there, but not like

bikes – right in Denton. Urban Tribe just

United States.

Collins Road and have partnered with a

Copenhagen, bikes are a major form

what we’re used to seeing here in the “They aren’t all decked out in athletic gear with helmets,” said Aaron. “They wear their business clothing and use their bikes for transportation, not exercise.”

A particular bike that caught Aaron’s eye was a motorized cargo bike used to sell ice cream, cart materials or just carry kids.

Though the ones in Europe were not on the level of quality that he wanted, Aaron thought it would be a great idea to offer a

and even the right place to assemble the signed a lease in a new business park on bike shop in town to makes sure that every bike is assembled to Urban Tribe standards.

Urban Tribe Cargo Bicycles can now be

purchased online. Ironically, one of the first orders came in from Hawaii. He is

also getting a lot of attention right here as he takes the bike into downtown Denton and to local parks with his kids.

“It’s actually faster to go into the Denton

sturdier version of the bike for families.

Square on the bike because I don’t have

“It is a car replacement for my family,” said Aaron who has two children, ages 4 months and 3 years. “I can fit the kids, groceries, or whatever I need to carry.”

have to trek from blocks away with kids in

Despite its solid appearance, it is a very

people, it’s for everyone.”

lightweight bike and easy to turn. The

best feature, however, is the small motor attached that charges as easily as a laptop.

It averages about 15 miles per hour, has a headlight on front and is perfect for

traveling around the neighborhood or around town.

“Even my wife will use it,” said Aaron.

“She’s not big on riding bikes.”

After coming back from Sweden, Aaron immediately started researching cargo

to park in a space,” said Aaron. “I don’t tow, I can park up front.”

He had one father take his four kids out to see if this was a purchase he wanted to make.

“All four kids fit perfectly on the benches

and the father really enjoyed carting them

around,” said Aaron. “It’s not just for sporty For Aaron, this is what he hopes to be the beginning of new era for our area.

“We want to see more bikes on the road,” he said. “When families start biking, our cities will change from the inside out.”

To learn more visit www.facebook.com/ UrbanTribeCargoBicycles/ or

urbantribecargobicycles.com/. photos courtesy of Aaron Powell

bicycles in the US and found one manufacturer on the West Coast who was charging over $5,000 per bike.

Having had previous experience working with factories and importers, he began researching everything it would take to make a good quality cargo bike and found just the right combination to pull it all together.

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Lifestyle | Counseling

Starting the Conversation

W

hat does it mean to live well? In a nutshell, it’s living up to one’s full potential in every aspect of life. As with most of us, life, at times, gets out of balance and sometimes even chaotic. We’re here to help you bring back that balance.

At Lifeworks, we are in the business of LIFE change. If you want something different, you have to do something different. Most of us do not like change and consequently remain in our sometimes disruptive patterns, even though we may be aware that without change, our current reality will stay the same or worsen. It’s important to understand that doing is not just about behavior. Without a change in our perspective of self and the world around us, any behavior change is unlikely to remain. True transformation comes with the consistent practice of new perceptions that inform our behavior leading to new patterns.

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

The mission of Lifeworks is providing

deal of our clients come for help dealing

guidance and support to help you

with everyday issues; such as, job stress,

manage life well. “You” may be an individual, a relationship, an organization, or an entire community that desires to live well but may need some assistance. Our

relationship struggles, life transition, and general life improvement. Our clients come to talk things out loud in a safe environment without fear of judgment.

licensed psychologists and professional

If you would like help living well, we

counselors provide you a confidential

encourage you to start the conversation.

and safe place to talk with someone who

Live well. Let us help

neither needs nor wants anything from you, is not connected to your world, and who desires to help you help yourself. Not everyone who comes to Lifeworks for help has a clinical diagnosis. In fact, a great

by Wayne M Cagle, MEd, LPC-S Owner/Lifeworks wcagle@lifeworkscc.com

Events in and Around Castle Hills

Lifestyle

Step on the Square September 9, 2017

6 pm - 9 pm - Downton Carrolton 1106 S Broadway St., Carrolton, TX 75006 Two-step under the stars on the Square! Food and beverage available for purchase. 6-7pm: Two-step dance lessons Movies In The Park September 8, 2017

provided by Jim Weber. 7-9pm: King George: A Tribute to George Strait

7:45 pm - The Colony Five Star Complex 4100 Blair Oaks Dr., The Colony, TX 75056 Back to School Party August 24, 2017

Cost : Free. Bring the whole family to enjoy popcorn and a kid-friendly movie as well as fun games and give-aways.

Brought to you by the Parks and Recreation Department.

7 pm to 8 pm - Carrolton Public Library @ Hebron & Josey.

For more information, please contact the Parks and

4220 N Josey Lane, Carrolton, TX 75010.

Recreation Department at 972-625-1106.

Bow-Wow Luau

September 10, 2017 1 pm to 5 pm - Hawaiian Falls Waterpark 4400 Paige Rd., The Colony, TX 75056 Cost: $15/person in advance, limit two dogs/person; $20 day of event, limit two dogs/person Calling all dog lovers! Dive in with your best canine friend and enjoy doggie swims, contests, games, and prizes. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Colony Animal Shelter Injured Animal Fund. For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 972-625-1106.\

Mother & Son Adventure Night September 16, 2017

Noon to 3 pm (ages 3-7) 4 pm to 7 pm (ages 8-12) - Lions Club Park. 4800 Nash Dr., The Colony, TX 75056. Cost: $25 per couple, $5 each additional son. Moms and sons will test their skills at archery, fishing, horseshoes and many other camping/outdoor activities. Purchase your tickets in advance at The Colony Recreation Center (5151 N. Colony Blvd.). For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 972-625-1106.

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Lifestyle

Styles

W

e checked with some local store managers to find the basic “must

haves” for the school year. Here are their recommendations:

start with the basics: black leggings and basic shirts in every color

imaginable. These are the go-to starts to every outfit. Leggings 2/$15 and

shirts in v-neck, scoop, crew are 2/$10.

Spearmint shorts in all colors are a

bestseller at $12.99 but check length before you buy – some schools won’t allow them.

Charlotte Russe: Store Manager

Sarah recommends distressed jeans,

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

School Year which she can’t keep on the shelves.

Boyfriend style jeans are not skin tight and usually fringed, but you can also get them in a legging style. They go with everything and they are all the

rage at $25. Rips and tears might not

be acceptable at school but there are plenty of other options without them.

Get the Charlotte Russe app for coupons.

Francesca’s: Alec recommended the

pephem embroidered tops from Blue Rain. Perfect for dressing up or just

wearing with jeans or shorts. $38 and

very classy. Francesca’s has email offers as well as student, teacher and vet discounts available.

embroidered tank photo courtesy of www.francescas.com

H&M: Store Manager Cedrick says to

for the

Gardening | Lifestyle

What’s Going On in my Yard...

W

hen it comes to turf

grass turns brown, so having a licensed

instead, apply weeks prior to the seasonal

maintenance and getting

technician examine your system is

change to help fend off what’s coming.

straight answers for what

actions you should and shouldn’t be taking on your lawn right now, our friends

highly recommended.

Mowing height

over at GRASSPERSON are a great source of knowledge. They’ve sent over a couple

common,

should be cut

hardest weeds

help with water

Texas summer.

retention.

You should be watering at least 3-4 days a week.

The goal is watering deep,

not frequently. Always water between 4-6 a.m. to avoid fungus issues. Run times for pop-up spray heads should range between 14-18 minutes; rotor style heads 20-25 minutes; and drip style lines range from 35-45 minutes. It is a great idea to

We recommend to keep your Bermuda between 3-3.5” and the St. Augustine a little higher.

Fertilizer

You should be applying food to your grass to ensure it’s a success with all the heat stress

we have had so far this summer. Just as important, be prepared after September 1 to apply your pre-emergents. Most

system to ensure proper coverage as well

homeowners make the mistake of not

as efficiency of the system. Most of the

applying these treatments until the

a problem until plants start dying or the

is nutsedge.

Nutsedge is a weed that is caused by heavy rainfall which we have experienced this year. To treat it, call a professional that has weed specific treatments to help get rid of this problem. General weed chemicals

have a professional walk thru the entire

time our customers don’t notice there’s

to deal with

summer to

through the ups and downs of a typical

One of most

All grass higher in the

things to keep in mind while we go

Watering

Weeds

window has passed. You should not

will not touch it, and other than thinning out some of your broad leaf weeds, could be a waste of money. Getting on a chemical program and being consistent with it is worth its weight in gold. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but within a few months of being on a professional program, you should be very pleased with results.

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

apply when the cool weather is here, but AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Medication

Sleep

Yourself

I

f one has never experienced migraines, it is hard to understand the pain attached to them.

Migraines are debilitating headaches that make performing daily tasks

difficult for even the most determined of people. They affect roughly 12% of the population, the majority being women.

Signs of Migraines So how do you know if you’re having a migraine or just a headache? Here are some telltale signs of migraines: • Nausea and/or vomiting • Sensitivity to light and/or sound • Pain on one side of the head • Pain located behind one ear or eye

• Seeing flashing lights, spots or having double vision

• Vertigo, imbalance, fainting

How to

Deal Migraines With

by Susan Neuhalfen

• Migraines usually give warning signs

Watching for Signs While interviewing several area

residents who have suffered from migraines, they all paid particular

attention to the patterns and signs that lead to the migraine. In some

cases a jagged light would appear on one side their vision. Some reported having migraines after coming

“down” from a stressful situation. For others, it would happen hours after eating certain foods. The causes of

the migraines are known as triggers.

Food Management

Botox

Common Triggers • Allergies (including food allergies) • Bright lights • Loud noises • Strong odors • Foods, drinks especially containing caffeine and alcohol

• Changes in weather • Changes in sleep • Dehydration • Anxiety and stress • Medication • Hormonal changes Hormonal changes, whether menopause or menstruation, are a very common

triggers among women, which is why migraines are slightly more common in boys than girls until girls begin

menstruation. However, those with

Hydration

Stress Management

practices and always had water or a drink with electrolytes on hand. Now it’s rare that he gets a migraine.

Prevention and Treatment One of the recurring themes that every migraine sufferer mentioned was recognizing the patterns that lead to the migraine. Many kept food journals to see if there was a correlation between ingredients that caused the migraine.

Others recognized that as soon as they felt stress they began taking medication to stave off any problems. One mentioned that she used Excedrin Migraine while some had prescription medications. Still others, as soon as they saw the flashing lights, simply laid down in a dark room with no sounds and covered their eyes with a towel or sleep mask.

If natural remedies don’t help, or if new symptoms develop, the most important thing to do is to see a doctor who specializes in headache management.

kids mentioned dehydration and sleep

deprivation as the most common triggers.

A relatively new development in the

“They don’t stay well hydrated, especially

treatment of chronic migraine headaches

my kids are playing sports I have to really

to treat wrinkles, but don’t think that a

in the Texas heat,” said one reader. “When

is to use Botox. Yes, the same Botox used

monitor their schedules.”

trip to the plastic surgeon is in order.

Another reader had a child athlete who

was suffering from five migraines a month.

Not wanting to put him on medicine, she took control of his diet.

“I made sure that everything I fixed was

fresh and took all food with MSG out of the house,” she said. “Processed foods really affected him.”

She and her husband kept an eye on the patterns. They made sure that he had

Only a trained neurologist will have the clinical expertise to perform these Botox injections. Also, this method is only used for chronic migraine sufferers. A chronic migraine sufferer is one who has migraine headaches for 4+ hours at a time at least 15 days out of the month. For those chronic migraine sufferers who have not responded well to other medications, Botox injections have proven in many cases to be a positive alternative.

a banana or yogurt just after his soccer AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

Castle Montessori:

The Leader in

Montessori

Education

by Susan Neuhalfen

its inception, they are the largest privately

Vikas and Varsha Patel have been there.

“It’s so hard as a parent because you

“We didn’t get into this business to make

feel this guilt about being away from

money,” said Vikas. “We got into it to leave

your children,” said Varsha, a corporate

a legacy.”

accountant and now Founder and Head of Schools at Castle Montessori. “ We went through a few schools ourselves so we know exactly how parents feel in this situation.”

That’s when the Patels visited a small Montessori school. Varsha said she hadn’t been impressed with the overall environment, but the staff really drew the Montessori school because of the

could about Montessori and began by hiring a Montessorian with 30 years of experience to train her. The two worked hand in hand every day. They then hired two AMI consultants from California who stayed in the area for two years to make sure every room was set up to true Montessori standards and that exactly the right staff members were hired.

with five schools in the DFW area.

What sets Castle Montessori apart is the caliber of their educators. In addition

to teaching credentials, every teacher

must be AMS, AMI or MACTE certified.

Castle is well known for their world-class teachers dedicated to preparing each child for a bright future. Even those

working with infants must acquire highly specialized training in order to be an infant Montessori teacher.

“We wanted to emerge as the leader in

Montessori education,” said Vikas Patel.

“To this day we refuse to budge from the requirements we set.”

Both Vikas and Varsha believe in being hands-on owners and both visit each

school at least once every week to make

The results have been astounding.

sure that everything is running smoothly.

Patels started discussing the possibility of

For ten years, Castle Montessori has

leaving corporate America to open their

been the leader in Montessori education.

educators are doing their jobs properly

own school.

Serving the Castle Hills community from

teachers and the program. That’s when the

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

They visit classrooms to ensure that the

and that the schools are staying true to the Montessori educational process.

Sponsored Content

her children in. Their children thrived in

Varsha set about to learn everything she

held Montessori school in North America

photography by Your Candid Memory (yourcandidmemories.com)

J

ust a few years ago, they were two full-time working parents looking for a school for their two young children. They wanted a safe learning environment where their children would be loved and nurtured.

In Montessori there are six curriculum areas: Sensorial, Practical Life, Language, Mathematics, Cultural Studies and Sciences. Castle also offers additional daily enrichment programs such as Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Music, Physical Education, Nature Study and Fine Arts. They will also be introducing a STEM curriculum in the fall.

In Montessori school, the philosophy is to follow the child, instead of the child following the class. In other words, children are encouraged to work at their own pace and are provided the learning materials that are exclusive to the Montessori program. According to Varsha, training is crucial in making sure the Montessori age groups have certain materials presented to them at particular times and that only comes from a welltrained staff.

The tenure of their staff is also a testimony to the schools. Several teachers and administrative staff members are celebrating their ten-year anniversaries along with the schools. That is why the Patels make certain to be in each school as often as possible, ensuring that everyone on staff is exhibiting the positive energy that kid’s need in a learning environment.

The results don’t lie. After 10 years

Parents are encouraged to interview the teachers and they offer a free half-day trial to anyone interested in bringing the child in for a “trial run” in the classroom.

There are also a monitors right up front in the main lobby so that parents may come and see their children in the classroom environment any time of the day.

Castle Montessori runs a secure but open environment.

working parents,” said Varsha. “As a

and roughly 850 students, not only do the students transition well into public schools, many students tested with very high scores to get into the best private schools in Dallas.

“We set out 10 years ago to change the landscape of schools available to result, we created schools where children are growing in a safe environment with a strong academic base, guiding and maximizing their strengths.”

“We wake up to this, every day, seven days a week and make sure that everything is addressed in person,” said Vikas. “Because at the end of the day it’s about the results.”

972.492.5555 • www.castlemontessori.com • 1416 W. Hebron Parkway • Carrollton, TX AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

Yourself | Nutrition

Boost Your Energy Dear Annette:

I

need energy!!! Summer is ending and that means fall schedules and holidays around the corner. I just drag my feet some days, please help!

Dear Reader: Today’s schedules are demanding. Energy is a something we all need more of. Many people tell me how tired and run down they feel at times. It seems we have run out of energy. What creates energy for us? We create energy through the mitochondria.

How many remember the Krebs cycle from biology? We need healthy mitochondria for optimal energy. It is also extremely important for cell regeneration to prevent aging and imperative for healthy cognition, for fighting inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the body. We need BDNF Brain- derived neutrophic factor to create new and healthy brains cells. If the brain is sluggish, so is every other system in the body. Certain foods lend themselves more to creating strong mitochondria and turn on the gene to create BDNF. The top 12 food choices for healthy mitochondria based on the Functional Medicine Institute are: • Almonds

Diet is extremely important but so is sleep.

Good sleep hygiene can really help. Some pointers for good sleep are: • Get in a routine; go to bed at the same

• Avocado

time every night. Get at least two hours of

• Grass fed beef or buffalo (bison)

sleep before midnight.

• Blueberries

• Have no clutter in your bedroom.

• Broccoli (all cruciferous vegetables)

• Do not eat a heavy meal before going

• Coconut oil

to bed.

• Use lavender oil in your bedroom.

• Green tea • Olive oil

• Take the TV out of the bedroom.

• Pomegranate seeds

• Do some meditation or breathing exercises before sleeping.

• Salmon

Stay away from processed foods and sugar they are big energy thieves.

Having more energy is all about lifestyle choices . The good news is we can create it for ourselves!

• Seaweed

Strangely enough we have to move to

• Spinach

exercise on a regular basis report

Sincerely Yours,

having more energy than those who

Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

have more energy. People who

It is best to eat organic foods as toxins are what deplete your energy.

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

are more sedentary.

Annette Doody

www.thesavoryteam.com

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

Memory Lane:

Edit This | Yourself

My Favorite

Sports Ledes

H

aving a great lead – or “lede” as journalists spell it – is part of our job as writers. It gives readers the main points of an article right away and, if cleverly written, hooks the reader’s attention.

The purpose of this article is to share my own lede writing, with an emphasis on sports journalism. For those who don’t know, I cover high school sports for the Denton Record-Chronicle. I also own a writing and editing company called, Edit This. Over the last 20 years, I’ve spent time focusing on effective lede writing in my sports coverage. I do so because: 1. I hate writing that has no creativity – it shows the writer is afraid to take chances.

2. We watch sports because it’s fun.

Sports writing should have just as much personality.

I went back and pulled some of my favorites. Here are just a few: Argyle’s Vivian Gray could have gone anywhere to play college basketball.

She just redefined anywhere.

DALLAS — When Army went for it and scored on fourth-and-3 in overtime to eventually win Tuesday’s Heart of Dallas Bowl, it put the finishing touches on what

everyone could see from the opening kickoff. North Texas had no answer for Army’s triple-option rushing attack — at least not one that could withstand fourplus quarters.

SNYDER — Ryan believed it could beat

With about 10 rounds left in last week’s first-year player draft, former Ryan standout Nash Knight was starting to believe he wouldn’t get his chance to play professional baseball.

was a beatdown.

Jackson Weatherford has told only a few people about the outcome of a new medical procedure that gave him partial relief from his post-concussion symptoms.

Now he wants to tell everyone, with the understanding he still has a long way to go.

Jacob Castro is 9 years old, and his golf game may be better than yours.

ARGYLE -- Nathan Priddy struggled for the right words while being interviewed during the final week of his high school basketball career. Clearly nervous, he rarely took his eyes off the ground in front of him -- unless to grab the attention of a nearby teammate.

Jackson Weatherford stares at every baseball field as if it were his home — a home, sadly, he may never go back to.

Canyon in Friday’s Class 5A Region I

semifinal. It didn’t take long for reality to set in.

It was billed as a showdown. The result Keith Pierce used to be a fixture on the

marathon scene. Then he scaled back — way back.

ROCKWALL — Krum may have shot itself in the foot several times in Saturday’s Game 2 loss, but it wasn’t near the

collapse Carthage had in the ensuing door-die series finale.

GARLAND — Opponents have been able to get the best of Argyle before. It’s just that not many could finish the job.

Nicholas Gay, who quickly turned around Ryan’s volleyball program during a

two-year stint at the school, is leaving to take over as coach at Weatherford in a

decision prompted by a similar move his wife is making.

by Steve Gamel Edit This 469.360.3611 www.edit-this-npsteve.com

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

Know

Be in the

Family

Inside Community

Pooch Pool Party September 9

Bring your dog on Saturday, September 9 for the Pooch Pool Party at Rosemeade Rainforest. Contests include Best Swimsuit, Best Dog ‘N Owner Look-alike, and Pool Toy Retrieval. Admission is $5 per dog; humans are free.

Owners must show proof of dog’s current rabies vaccinations. The Carrollton West Pet Hospital will be on site from 11am to 1pm offering free rabies vaccinations for the first 200 pets. For more information, call 972-466-9833 or visit cityofcarrollton.com/athletics.

Car Show September 24

Come and see some incredible vehicles at The Time Machine Car Show at The Plaza on September 24 from 10am until 2pm. View the classic cars and trucks competing in the following categories: Castle Hills Pick, ’79 and Older, ‘80 and Newer, People’s Choice, and Outstanding Club Participation. For more information call Ray at 940-367-1798 or email ray@timemachinecarshows.com. $10 entry for participants, but it’s absolutely free for spectators.

Fall festival on October 28 Mark your calendar now for the Fall Festival at Castle Hills Village Shops and Plaza on October 28 This is a one of a kind family event featuring horse-drawn hayrides, bounce houses, carnival games, a pumpkin patch, face painters, a petting zoo and so much more.

It all happens at the Castle Hills Village Shops & Plaza starting at 5pm and closing at 8pm. Bring the family!

Area Farmers Markets Abound There are plenty of great places to get local produce, meats, specialty foods, beauty and handmade skincare products near Castle Hills. On Thursdays the Farmers Market Old Town Lewisville is open from 3pm until 7pm at Lewisville City Hall, 151 W. Church St. In Flower Mound, Parker Square on Saturdays is open from 9am until noon. The Carrollton Farmers Market, 2722 North Josey Lane is open Sundays.

Inside Education CHE Grandparents’ Lunch September 8 August 28

Call all Nanas and Papas! Castle Hills Elementary School’s Grandparents’ Lunch is on Friday, September 8 during your grandchilden’s regular lunch times. Lunch will not be available for purchase so bring your own lunch and, if you’d like, bring lunch for your grandchild(ren) as well. Lunch runs anywhere from 10:30am until 1pm so make sure you know when to be there and don’t be late!

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL! Independence Elementary

HHS Fall Open House September 18

Parent Orientation Nights 6pm

Hebron High School will have its Fall Open House and PTSA Meeting from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Monday, September 18.

This is open to all parents and students of Hebron High School.

Parents are encouraged to come and see all that the school has to offer and take time to visit their student’s classrooms and teachers for this year.

September 6 PreK - 2nd Grade September 7 3rd-5th Grade

Polser Elementary Positive Proof September 7 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

The Colony Needs Classic Cars

LISD Back to School Fair Success

Classic car owners are needed to participate

The LISD Back to School Fair was a huge

in The Colony High School Homecoming

success! Numerous volunteers and sponsors

Parade on Wednesday, September 13 at 6pm. Participants will be driving Lewisville ISD administration and board members.

Cars will need to be lined up at the starting point in The Colony by 5:30pm. If you are interested in helping to make this a

provided school supplies and resources for over 4,000 economically disadvantaged students in LISD. All students received a new backpack with required school

Hebron High School Pictures during 2nd Period and Lunches August 30 September 1

supplies, free vision exams, sports physicals,

successful event, contact Lana Crevier at

immunizations, haircuts, information on

crevierl@lisd.net or call 469-948-2515.

student aid and after school programs.

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

Family

Hebron

Preview

by Steve Gamel

I

Ready to Make a Push in Class 6A

t’d be easy for any Texas high school football fan to look at Southlake Carroll and Trinity as the potential pacesetters

in District 5-6A. Both programs have won state titles and never seem to have a down year.

But Hebron is a championship-caliber

program, too, and the Hawks refuse to play in anyone’s shadow in 2017.

Hebron’s offense averaged just more than

to stop. Cornerback Verone McKinley III is

practically everyone back. Quarterback

He’ll join linebacker Colby Newton,

31 points per game last season and has

Clayton Tune (Kansas commit, third year

as a starter) threw for 2,957 yards and 30

touchdowns last year. He’ll have a host of weapons around

Running back Jatyn

– returns 14 starters, nine on offense, and

veteran offensive line, should add

for the district title and that long-awaited

“Clayton is so confident in what he does

deep playoff push.

back. We’re in a good place,” said Brazil, whose team lost in the second round

last year. “With our district, there will be

tough games every week. Everyone will be prepared for us, but we’ll be ready.”

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

“We don’t have

as much back on

defense, but the guys

we do have back did

some great things last

and Trejan Bridges.

Taylor, coupled with a to that explosiveness.

out there, that he makes everyone else

“We’re fortunate to have these players

Joseph Angelone and Colin Lundgren.

Jaren Mitchell (1,015

longtime head coach Brian Brazil. Brazil

could be a not-so surprising contender

and defensive backs Mario Montez,

wide receiver

yards, nine scores)

– who led Hebron to a state title in 2005

linemen Carlos Hatcher and Chris Befell

him, including

A year after finishing 8-4, the Hawks are

primed to have a breakout season under

back and recently committed to Oregon.

around him that much more confident,”

Brazil said. “His ability to improvise when plays break down makes him a special

player, and it wins a lot of games for us.”

As excited as Brazil is about offense, he

insists his defense will be just as difficult

year,” Brazil said. “We

have a solid front three

and we’ve got three back

in the secondary. So we have the

potential to be just as good on defense as we will be on offense.”

Hebron opens its season Aug. 31 against Plano. The District 5-6A schedule gets

underway Sept. 29 at Trophy Club Byron Nelson. District 5-6A includes Southlake

Carroll, Trinity, Lewisville, Marcus, Trophy Club Byron Nelson, Flower Mound, and Hurst L.D. Bell.

Family

BRING THE

WOOD STICK

photos courtesy of Green Meadows Landscaping The “Bring The Wood Stick” is brought to every game in reference to Hebron Hawks bringing their opponent to the woodshed.

Pictured from left to right: Mario Montez, Clay Tune, Jatyn Taylor and Jack Genard. Landscape design for backyard was done by Green Meadows Landscaping.

Pictured are hollies and an Oklahoma Red Bud for privacy. Ferns and begonias planted for color. Oklahoma chop stone used for edging.

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Family

When It’s Important

to supplement

your child’s

education

by Susan Neuhalfen

C

astle Hills resident Beena Momin knows a lot about tutoring children. As a 13 year-old she began tutoring kids after school for 4-5 hours every day. Even when she was home from college, she would conduct private study lessons. Today, she

and her husband own Mathnasium in Denton, bringing her life full circle.

“It’s been in my blood a long time,”

relearn Algebra, bring in a third party.

kids get ahead.”]

teaches this information daily, to get

she laughs. “I always wanted to help She has found in her experience that

those who desired tutoring fell into one of two categories: those who need help and

Parents love to live vicariously through their children, whether it’s sports or education.

The key is to fuel the passion without pressuring them to the point where it is no longer fun.

26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

Choose a person or organization that

your child back on track. In a best-case

scenario, the tutor makes it fun and easy to learn.

those who have a passion for the subject.

Your Child Loves the Subject

Your Child Needs Help

Your child has a passion for baseball so

Your child is behind on a subject. In many cases, both parents work and don’t have

the time or patience to help. There is also the problem that parents don’t always

make the best teachers because no man (or woman) is a prophet in his own land.

“Receptivity is a big problem,” said Beena.

“When do you stop being the parent and start being the tutor?”

That’s when it’s best to bring in an outside source. Instead of searching YouTube to

you sign him up for little league, right?

If your child has a passion for math or

science, you want to fuel that. It doesn’t

necessarily mean that your child is great at the subject, but the passion alone is

a good reason to expose the student to more information.

Parents love to live vicariously through their children, whether it’s sports or

education. The key is to fuel the passion without pressuring them to the point where it is no longer fun.

“If your child loves something don’t burn

On the other hand, Beena argues that

them out, but don’t stop it, either,”

some kids that are way ahead of their

said Beena.

That’s when it’s vital to find balance.

While it’s great to have activities it’s just as important to carve out time for kids to just be kids.

fine balance,” Beena finished.

Beena discussed one parent who wanted her child to excel in math but not to the point where

too confident. That’s when they make mistakes. This scenario can be avoided when they stay challenged.

One thing she does tell parents is to never tell their kids that they’re

“Now that I have a daughter, I understand that

classes, become overly bored and

“Our kids have enough culture and society blocks,” she said. “Education shouldn’t be one of them.”

she ostracized herself from the other kids because she was so much smarter.

“Our kids have enough culture and society

bad at something, because they give their children the excuse to not try.

She instead advises parents to tell the child how they learned.

“I was not taught how to swim, but I’m gong to

teach my child how to swim,” said Beena. “I’m going to tell her how hard I worked to learn it myself and how rewarding it was.”

blocks,” she said. “Education shouldn’t be

For those parents still on the fence, Beena

one of them.”

says many programs, such as Mathnasium,

offer free assessments. They play games and do oral and written assessments in a fun way so the student doesn’t feel pressured.

“Believe me, if we don’t feel your child needs to be here, we’ll tell you,” she said.

“All we want is what is best for the child.”

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Family

T

here’s not much separating The Colony from potentially laying claim to the District 14-5A title in 2017.

Last year, the Cougars lost a wild 56-31 game to Prosper on Oct. 21, yet both teams went on to end the

Season Preview:

The Colony Could

Vie For District

14-5A Title

by Steve Gamel

regular season with identical 6-1 district records. Prosper was ultimately named the district champions due to head-tohead tiebreaker rules, but the Cougars likely feel that crown is just as much theirs.

To gain the upper hand in 2017, The Colony must be able to rely even more on star quarterback Jamel Jones and a balanced group of starters on both sides of the ball. The Colony returns five starters on offense and six defensively.

Jones is the engine that makes everything go, having thrown for 1,480 yards last year while chipping in another 1,027 yards on the ground with 21 total touchdowns. Jones was named the district’s Co-MVP and led his team to the second round of the playoffs before losing to Wylie East. He’ll need playmakers to step up around him, though, in order for The Colony to live up to its massive expectations.

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017

photos courtesy of The Colony Cougar Football

On the defensive side of the ball, The Colony returns six starters, including what many project to be the preseason defensive MVP of the district, Cameron Pair. Pair, a defensive back, rolled up 85 tackles last year as a junior and was named defensive newcomer of the year. He’ll be flanked by defensive back Jaxon Gibbs (two interceptions) and other standouts like Stuart Plaugher and Peter Kimani.

Family

Low Carb Sugarless Snacks for Kids (and Parents)

N

ow that everyone is going back to school the kids will be hungry the second they get home. Curb that need for sugar by having sugarless snacks ready to go:

Protein Balls

Berry Powerful Smoothie

Peanut Power Packed Smoothie

1 c. fresh or frozen organic berries ¼ c. of fresh organic power greens 1 c. unsweetened almond milk 1 Tb protein powder

8 oz. unsweetened almond milk ½ c. frozen strawberries ½ frozen banana 1 Tb natural peanut better 1 Tb protein powder

Mix all of the ingredients for a yummy smoothie (or freeze for healthy popsicles)

Mix and enjoy!

2 c. rolled oats 1 1/2 c. peanut butter 1/4 c. unsweetened coconut flakes ½ c. raw honey 2 scoops chocolate protein powder 2 Tb. flax seeds ground (optional) Mix together all ingredients and roll into balls. Place them in a container in the refrigerator or freezer for easy storage. Add semi-sweet mini chocolate chips if you’re okay with a little sugar.

AUGUST 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Volleyball:

Family

Lady Hawks Out to Defend Their Crown

by Steve Gamel

H

ebron’s volleyball team is not short on talent this season. But for the

Lady Hawks to win a third-straight

state title, they’ll have to fill the most important position

only provides leadership, but ultimately

since repeated that effort in 2010,

controls how everything operates on the

2015 and 2016. Last year, Hebron won

court. McLaughlin, now at Oregon State, did all that and then some while winning two state titles

on the court.

at Hebron and finishing her senior

Longtime head

year with 1,618

coach Karen Keeney

assists, 419 digs, 97

is always a picture

kills, and 42 aces.

of optimism, but she didn’t mince words

“Kylee took our team

earlier this month when she said the loss of four-year starting setter and Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year, Kylee McLaughlin, has been a focus for the defending champs for much of the offseason and into the start of this season.

For those who don’t know, the setter is to

to a different level,” Keeney said. “It will be interesting trying to fill that role, and right now I have three, possibly four, girls in the running.”

And that’s the good news. Since Hebron opened in 1999, it has consistently maintained its status as one of the top teams in its classification because of

46 matches.

One of the players that could be in the running to fill McLaughlin’s shoes is sophomore Nicole Drewnick. As a freshman, Drewnick won a varsity roster spot as both an outside hitter and setter.

She’s one of two sophomores, a freshman, and two juniors in the mix.

As for the rest of the team, Hebron is loaded. Both middle blockers return in senior Lauren Merrill and junior Emma Clothier. Libero Annie Benbow is also back, as are outside hitter Adanna Rollins and right-side hitter Gabby Pliskal.

“The experience across the board will be there. It’s just all about finding that setter,” Keeney said. “Everyone is going to

volleyball what the quarterback position

Keeney’s ability to churn out standout

is to football. Having the right person

player after standout player. The program

be gunning for you, which is nothing we

in that spot is critical, as the setter not

won its first state title in 2004, and has

haven’t seen before.”

30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| AUGUST 2017