Life in Castle Hills Magazine April 2019

IT’S HAIL

SEASON Y’ALL

APRIL 19, 2019 - MAY 17, 2019

A STRONG

LEGAL

REPUTATION

An Even Stronger Legal Team

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

SUMMER CAMP

ACTIVITIES

MOTHER’S DAY DINING IDEAS

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

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

photo courtesy of Prohibition Chicken

TOUR OF DOWNTOWN LEWISVILLE FOR CASTLE HILLS RESIDENTS May 11 | 4 - 8pm | J2 Steakhouse (119 E. Main St., Lewisville, TX 75057) The Main and Mill Association invites Castle Hills Residents to share in the history, food and events Lewisville has to offer. For people interested in going email Patrick Kelly at Patrick.kelly@castlehillsgovernment.com

ADOPTION Of The Month

Hi my name is Rex,

Hi, my name is Cheyenne,

I am around 5 years old. My previous owners say that I lived with and did well with other cats and young children.

I like treats and toys, am very playful and a mellow/relaxed guy. Please come by and meet me. I am sterilized, up-to-date on vaccinations, tested for FeLV/FIV (if applicable) and microchipped.

I am around 1 years old and love to play with tennis balls. I’m a sweet girl who likes to entertain myself with toys and then give lots of kisses. I do not like kitties so I need a home without them. If you think that I might be the one come by and meet me. I am sterilized, up-to-date on vaccinations, tested for heart worms (if applicable) and microchipped.

City of Lewisville Animal Shelter | 995 E Valley Ridge Blvd | 972.219.3478 Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm | Sat 1 - 5pm

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

photos and info courtesy of City of Lewisville Animal Shelter Facebook Page

PET

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

CastleHillsMagazine.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 Manager

Lizzy Hoffman 972.900.7302 lizzy@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

Kim Ortiz Photography 972.814.9642 wwwKimOrtiz.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: 3513 Yucca Dr., Ste. 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Life in Castle Hills 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. 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. © 2019 Murray Media Group

Mother’s Day:

Oh The Memories!

N

ow that Mother’s Day is almost here, I am reminded of a funny joke I usually play on my kids. Each year, I pull out the box of old cards, poems, and artwork and, while sitting at breakfast, chime in with, “These are a reminder of all the nice stuff you used to say about mommy!”

Naturally, their eyes get all big and wide, and they immediately start saying stuff

like, “Oh, mom, stop!” and “You know we still love you.” But I keep on reading in a cute mommy voice …

Like the card that says, “My mommy is pretty because she has striped hair.”

Or, “My mommy is the best mommy there is, and that’s all I have to say about that!”

My kids are so much older now, so the

entire charade embarrasses them a little

bit. In their defense, everything I do is just for show. I am incredibly blessed to be a

mom and wife, and I really do get treated like a Queen on Mother’s Day.

Not sometimes, or most of the time – but all of the time.

My husband, Scott, always goes out of his way to make sure I have the best gifts and even brings me breakfast in bed from time to time. The kids, no matter how fast they are growing up, are quick to make me the homemade stuff I adore so much – the poems, trinkets, and cards.

I love those because it means they took the time to sit down, think about how much I mean to them, and create something from the heart.

I keep all of it. And yes, I still like to look back on them from time to time.

What are your favorite Mother’s Day memories? Reach out to us on social media and share photos or funny stories.

You never know, we may print some of them in the next issue.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

16

On the Cover is: Charla Bradshaw of KoonsFuller Family Law

FEATURED: A Strong

Legal Reputation An Even Stronger Legal Team

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

10 Inside Community

12 Lorentz Automotive:

11 Inside Education

Family Owned, With Your Family In Mind 20 iO Dentistry: Giving You The Smile of Your Life

18 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate 22 Summer Camp Activities

04 Tour Downtown Lewisville

24 Mother’s Day Dining Ideas

04 Pet Adoption of the Month

26 Lewisville Corner

Your House Ready to Sell www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

EDITORS PICK: Castle Hills

Resident Helps The Mavericks Raise $1.3 Million

15 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

ARTICLES

08 Lesser Known Tips to Get

14

28 It’s Hail Season Y’all 30 What is Cinco de Mayo?

The Real Estate

ISSUE

Learn who your local real estate agents are and tips to help get your house sold. As well as moving tips and packing tricks.

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

Real Estate Article

Lesser Known Tips to Get Your

HOUSE

READY to Sell T

here’s so much that goes into selling your home.

From finding the right realtor to deciding how much your house is worth, wading through purchase offers, setting up inspections, and getting items repaired or replaced, etc., all of it can feel like you are quickly being buried by one overwhelming task after the other.

It’s all going to work itself out – we promise. But don’t forget that perhaps THE most important task on that to-do list is getting your home ready for sale. You know, making sure everything looks its absolute best for the litany of home showings interested buyers will sign up for? If you’re using a lockbox, that means total strangers could be walking through every corner of your house at a moment’s notice – so it’s imperative that you create a warm, appealing atmosphere.

by Steve Gamel

8 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

We scoured the Internet and found obvious tips to prepare your home for the market, including getting your carpets cleaned or replacing and repairing items that are broken, but here are some lesser-known strategies:

Declutter Your Entire Home OK, so this first one is obvious, too. But you’d be surprised how many people think picking everything up off the floor will do the trick. Decluttering means throwing away things you no longer use that may be taking up important “showing” space in a living area, closet, bedroom, or garage. Don’t get rid of everything, but the idea is that the less stuff there is to distract a potential buyer from falling in love with the house itself, the better.

Your home will look bigger and less busy as a result.

Give Your Pets a Vacation We all love our fur babies, but the shedding, the smells, the dog bowls, and even the cat yarn can make a home less than desirable in a hurry. Not to mention, keeping the home clean for multiple showings can be a chore if they are around. Consider boarding your pets or having them stay at a friend or relative’s house while your home is in showing mode.

Keep Up With The Laundry As we mentioned earlier in this article, you will likely have plenty of potential buyers in your home throughout the week, so it’s imperative to keep everything as tidy as possible during that time and beyond. That includes laundry, where a few full baskets or clothes still sitting inside the dryer can be an unpleasant site for some. A tip here is to fold and put items away each time you do a load of laundry, thus making the entire laundry experience less painful.

Tidy Up The Landscaping Everyone always focuses on the inside of their home, but curb appeal is just as important. Make sure your lawn, flower beds, and other landscaping is adequately maintained and eliminate any areas of overgrowth, broken branches, weeds, etc. If you have a gazebo or outside living area, make sure it is in peak condition for potential buyers to view.

Put White Towels in All The Bathrooms This goes along with the idea that your home and everything in it should be as neutral as possible (neutral paint, accent pieces, carpet and rugs, etc.). By staying neutral, you make everything easier to view, and nothing says clean and new like having white towels in all the bathrooms.

Consider Doing a Few Upgrades This is for those of you who may have lived in the same home for 20 or 30 years. Appliances can get outdated in a hurry, same with that shag carpet and older countertops that you never got around to changing out and can’t be prettied up anymore with a few spritzes of cleaning product. Buyers love to see upgrades wherever possible, especially with light fixtures, and it’s something your realtor will use as a selling point.

Keep All Your Lights on & Curtains Open Sure, your house will look like a fish bowl with everything on display but isn’t that the point when your house is on the market? Abundant light is not only inviting for guests, but it also gives the appearance that a space is bigger.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

Hire a Staging Company This is an excellent point since most homeowners quickly feel the tension and anxiety of getting their home prepped for the market. If you’ve done everything else and don’t know how else to improve the look and feel of your home, a local staging company can come in like a white knight and make some tweaks and adjustments – think new decor, new furniture, etc. – to make the entire home more buyer-friendly.

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

COMMUNITY WORKING WOMEN

WEDNESDAYS

Every Wed. until May 29 | 6 - 10pm | The Growler USA 6520 Cascades Ct., Ste. #200 • The Colony, TX 75056 Are you a hard working woman? Every Wednesday night until

May 29th the Growler is inviting all the hard working women to

come enjoy a night built for you. This is a great networking event that will have vendor tables set up to showcase women business leaders of today. There will also be drink specials, food specials and entertainment while you enjoy making new connections.

Visit the Growler USA (The Colony) facebook page for more info.

MOTHER’S DAY

PETAL PARTY

®

Thurs., May 9 | 6:30 - 9pm | T.B.D. Kitchen 2560 King Arthur Blvd., Ste. #102 • Lewisville, TX 75056

This Mother’s Day use your creativity and make a beautiful floral arrangement with the professional floral designers of CRD Events. Drinks and food are available and you will not be disappointed. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.com just search Mother’s Day Petal Party.

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

THE WALL THAT HEALS May 2 - 4 | Open 24 hours | Lewisville Lake Park 200 Lake Park Rd. • Lewisville, TX 75057

The City of Lewisville is proud to announce The Wall That Heals, the mobile three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall) in Washington, D.C. just west of the Bob Wiseman Soccer Complex at Lewisville Lake Park, 200 Lake Park Road. The Wall That Heals exhibit will be accompanied by the Mobile Education Center.

To learn more visit www.vvmf.org/twth.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

INSIDE EDUCATION photo courtesy of Hebron High School Facebook page

HEBRON HS TAKES

UIL FILM STATE TITLE On March 5th Hebron High School walked away with its first UIL Division II State Championship at the University Inter scholastic League (UIL)

Young Filmmakers Festival for their Narrative

Film “Pájaro.” After qualifying for the state finals

the entire cast and crew drove down to Paramount Theatre in downtown Austin to compete.

Congratulations Hebron High!

CASTLE HILLS ELEMENTARY

photo courtesy of www.lisd.net/castlehills

SPIRIT NIGHT April 24 | 4-11pm | T.B.D Kitchen 2560 King Arthur Blvd., Ste. #102 Lewisville, TX 5056

THE COLONY

EVENTS Golf (Girls) Regional Tournament Apr. 22 - 23 at Rawls GC Final Exams May 6 - 10 & 13 - 17 Student Early Release May 23 The Colony High School Graduation May 25 | 10am | at UNT 600 Ave. D Denton , TX 76201

Join the Castle Hills Elementary PTA for the final Spirit Night of the school year!

A percentage of your purchase will be donated back to CHE PTA. Be sure to say you are with Castle Hills PTA when ordering!

RIBBON CUTTING

RIBBON CUTTING FOR CHE

OUTDOOR GARDEN April 23 | 12:30 - 1:30pm

The Castle Hills Elementary School is having a

ribbon cutting event for their newly constructed outdoor garden learning area. Come out and

see this beautiful space that has been created for current and future students.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

HEBRON

EVENTS

Hebron HS Band Freshman Marching Camp Apr. 23 - 26 | 5:30 - 7:30pm Choir Trip Apr. 26 - 29 | Leave at 6am & return at 11pm Band - CVMS Spring Concert 4 - 11pm APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Business Spotlight

check engine light keeps turning on and

off to more specialized areas of care such

Family Owned, With Your

FAMILY IN MIND

by Steve Gamel

as electrical diagnostics, transmission

rebuilds, exhaust system service, mufflers, and more, they can do it all.

They offer the best warranties in

the industry, including a 36 months,

36,000 miles coast-to-coast warranty, a complimentary shuttle service,

and have been voted Best of Denton County in each of the last four years.

“Our goal is to make the auto industry a professional industry like any other

industry,” Cole said. “I think there are so

many other little shops out there that don’t carry that same professionalism, but it’s

something we have always strived to do.

We want to be that professional and wellrespected business everyone knows.”

The only person who is at the shop more

than Renae is Cole, who has been around cars since he was a baby. He’s got plenty

of help, too. Team leader Shane Matthews

I

t was the early 1980s, and Mike Lorentz was driving through Lewisville on his way to Dallas for a job when he spotted

the famous water tower with the Lewisville High School Fighting Farmers logo

emblazoned on it for all passersby to see.

For Mike, it wasn’t just another sign on the

side of the highway. It gave him a sense of community, and he felt at home.

“It made him feel like this was an area that embodied true values and good

people,” said his wife, Renae Lorentz.

“Rather than keep going to Dallas to

take a job he already had, Mike stopped and talked to some people in Old Town.

He went to work for a local muffler shop for about a year and then eventually

started his own shop, which is where we’ve been ever since.”

Mike passed away 15 years ago, but not before creating Lorentz

Automotive, an old-school family-owned and operated repair shop that has more 12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

has been with the shop for more than 30 than carried the torch for a city rooted in honesty, knowledge and integrity.

A staple since 1982, Lorentz Automotive services Lewisville and the surrounding communities and is now co-owned by

years and represents a solid staff with little to no turnover.

It’s the type of business Mike Lorentz set out to create all those years ago,

and it’s something he’d still be proud

Renae and their son, Cole, a fourth-

of today. As he always used to say,

They are the go-to professionals to

happiness and satisfaction.”

generation of auto excellence.

“Our success is measured by your

ensure you, your children, your parents,

“We are a family, and we take the time to

and grandparents travel the roads of

Denton County and beyond safely and with confidence.

get to know our customers,” Cole added.

“When we shuttle our customers around,

we love getting to know them one on one

“We have customers who have

and asking what we can do better the next

now bring their cars to us,” Renae added.

we want to be the best we can possibly

grandchildren who have grown up and

With that type of longevity in your corner, why would you trust your vehicle with

anyone else? Lorentz Automotive’s team

of ASE certified technicians can repair all

make and model vehicle, whether foreign or domestic, and their list of services is as

time we see them. It’s our way of saying be … for them.”

LorentZ Automotive Total Car Care

972.353.2100

comprehensive as it gets. From something

600 N. Mill St. Lewisville, TX

service, or uncovering why that pesky

lorentzautoinc.com

as standard as an oil change, tire rotation

ONLY 10 MINS AWAY

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Castle Hills Resident Helps THE

MAVERICKS

RAISE 1.3 $

MILLION

by Steve Gamel

C

astle Hills resident Dean McCurry wasn’t kidding when he said he’d been called upon to be a

live auctioneer for some of the largest charity fundraising events in North

Texas. His latest opportunity may be his biggest to date.

16 Reading & Learning Centers.

children with cancer, senior citizens,

Mavs Ball, the foundation had already

needs, and so many more.

The report also said that entering

granted more than $5 million to nonprofit organizations serving children, women, and families in need.

“We have some great season-ticket

McCurry’s DM Auction Services was on

holders that are very gracious and

March 1 as the Dallas Mavericks raised a

the years,” Nowitzki told the Dallas

Foundation charities. That staggering

great stuff with the Mavs Foundation.

legend Dirk Nowitzki that fetched a

community, so it’s been a great thing.”

hand at the American Airlines Center on

support this event tremendously over

record-setting $1.3 million for their Mavs

Morning News. “We’re doing some

number included two dinners with Mavs

Everybody gets involved in the

combined $340,000 in a live auction.

As for McCurry, the latest event serves as

“A record-setting night at Mavs Ball,”

McCurry said in an excited email sent to Life in Castle Hills.

According to an article in the Dallas

Morning News, the Mavs Foundation has built 40 safe Learn & Play spaces

throughout North Texas over the last 22

years, including 24 basketball courts and 14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

proof that his once “side gig” has become something very special. This full-service

military veterans, the homeless, special More than just an auctioneer, Dean

takes a significant amount of burden off the organizers by offering value-added services such as bidding technology,

trips, celebrity appearances, celebrity,

silent and live auction items, music and

entertainment, raffle girls and raffle items, event planning, and much more.

“It’s a feel-good job because you’re

helping people that need money to support their organization through

fundraising,” Dean said. “That’s what we help people do.”

charity fundraising and event planning

If you would like to partner with

million per year – including a staggering

next event your BEST event, visit

support for live benefit auctions for

214.783.8064. If you’d like to learn

schools and churches to victims of crimes,

visit mavsfoundation.com.

service helps raise an average of $3-5

DM Auction Services to make your

$5 million in 2018 – and has provided

www.dmauctionservices.com or call

organizations that support everything from

more about the Mavs Foundation,

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

T

DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE MISSION

he mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most cost-effective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public at-large who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

The mission of the Denton County Sheriff’s Office is to provide services which exceed the public safety expectations of the citizens of Denton County, and in doing so, we will provide the most costeffective, accountable, progressive, and professional law enforcement services possible to diligently ensure the safety and security of our communities and roadways for the citizens and public atlarge who live, visit, work and do business in Denton County.

ATTENTION THE DENTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IS NOW HIRING DETENTION OFFICERS. Detention Officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a secured facility. This is a fast-paced work environment where you can make a difference. Detention Officer I position starts at $37,623 per year + benefits, with pay increases for prior experience and education.

Join our family and be a part of a great organization!

Apply online at www.governmentjobs. com/careers/dentoncounty 940.349.1600 127 N.WOODROW LN., SUITE 300 DENTON, TX 76205 DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

www.KoonsFuller.com

A STRONG LEGAL REPUTATION An Even Stronger Legal Team

by Steve Gamel

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

N

o matter how many times Charla Bradshaw has been seen walking into a courtroom, you can rest

assured she and her clients are backed

by the largest and most comprehensive family law team in the state.

Don’t get us wrong, Bradshaw can

hold her own in the legal world. For more than 25 years, she has built a reputation

have an entire team working together

chair of the Texas Academy of

As Bradshaw said, clients receive a

chair of the State Bar of Texas District

to make sure all bases are covered.

different level of representation when they put their trust in KoonsFuller –

and their bread and butter is the team

approach. Bradshaw pointed to a recent contested custody case where she and

Darnell teamed up to represent a client.

of trust and superior knowledge while

“Sarah picked the jury, while I was able

more complex divorce-related cases both

information during

having her name linked to some of the

locally and internationally. But when she

merged her firm with KoonsFuller in 2008 and became the managing shareholder Sponsored Content

for the Denton office, she and her team did so with the promise of providing clients limitless resources.

“When someone hires us, they have

access to all of our attorneys, of which we have every level. On top of that, there’s this amazing support staff,”

Bradshaw said. “We do things differently and comprehensively, and it starts with

to gather valuable jury selection. We have jury trials in

Texas for custody

and certain divorce

matters, and we are

very experienced to handle such cases,” Bradshaw said.

“We pooled our

talents and the entire

Family Law Specialists and is a past 14 Grievance Committee.

Darnell has extensive litigation experience in family law. She graduated law school

in 2006, and in 2012 she became Board

Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Ms. Darnell is an

associate member of the Annette Stewart

American Inn of Court

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

team together for the

benefit of our client. And there are plenty

and is a Texas Super Lawyers Rising

Stars Honoree.

Abeyta has practiced family law in Texas

since 1997. He has

helped many clients

achieve out-of-court settlements through

informal negotiations, mediation, and

collaborative law. Abeyta is also Board

more examples.”

Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board

of taking remarkably good care of our

KoonsFuller uses the team approach,

named to the Texas Super Lawyers list

is largely due to referrals and word

team approach is having a supervising

the team approach. We have a reputation clients. Our firm’s growth over the years of mouth. We can handle any family law matter.”

and one of the models for the KoonsFuller attorney, an assisting attorney, and a legal assistant.

KoonsFuller provides the community with

“We handle emergencies, which can be

for its advocacy and care of clients.

when a child has been taken away, and the

a family law firm with a strong reputation They have offices in Denton, Plano,

Dallas, Southlake, and Houston, and their services include matters such as divorce, child custody, visitation, child support, paternity, and the modification and enforcement of orders.

The Denton office has five attorneys:

Bradshaw, Sarah Darnell, Sean Abeyta,

James Logue, and Nicole Carroll. The firm also has a full-time licensed professional counselor, Jenny Gomez, who provides

litigation support for KoonsFuller clients.

So how does it all work? When a client is working with an attorney such as

Bradshaw or Darnell, for example, they www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

severe in a family law matter. For example,

client has been excluded from their house.

There is constant coverage of a client’s case.” Bradshaw said.

Bottom line, every client receives a high-

level of representation regardless of which attorneys handle their case.

Bradshaw, a Denton native who has been

listed among The Best Lawyers in America in family law and family law mediation as recognized by Best Lawyers, LLC since

2011, has all but her thesis in a masters in

marriage and family therapy: she went on

of Legal Specialization and has been since 2014.

Logue studied law at Texas Tech University

School of Law in Lubbock, TX. He received the CALI Award for the highest grade

in Legal Research & Writing, as well as the American Jurisprudence Award in Accounting for Lawyers and Criminal

Law. He is a member of the American Bar Association, Texas Bar Association, and Texas Aggie Bar Association.

Carroll has been practicing law for almost 22 years and is most passionate about navigating clients through the divorce process and using creative solutions

on complex issues. She strives to help couples resolve issues smoothly.

It’s a team Bradshaw can’t imagine being without.

to law school before completion. She is

“I am blessed to have such an amazing

Board of Legal Specialization. She is past

know our clients appreciate it, too.”

Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas

team around me,” Bradshaw said. “And I

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

Foodie Friday DFW: Seven Loaves Catering & Events

SEVEN LOAVES Catering & Events “It’s not a miracle, we just work really hard.”

T

hat’s the motto of local catering company, Seven Loaves Catering & Events, owned and operated

by Phillip and Leslie Smithwick and their family.

We’ve known the Smithwicks for years, and have even utilized their catering

services for some open house events

over the years in our real estate business.

They are one of the hardest-working,

kindest families in town. And in addition to their abundance of delicious food options for your events, that’s what makes them so successful.

and you can count on as many things

being made-from-scratch as possible.

So, Phillip and Leslie, will you adopt us?!

And as we mentioned before,

that’s why they are so successful

at what they do! The day we were there, we counted 35 catering orders on their

production wall - with events like breakfast for their corporate clients, weddings, parties, and more.

So, the question you may now be asking

is, what areas of DFW does Seven Loaves cater? And the answer is... pretty much anything. Especially now that so many

While we were in their kitchen,

wedding venues are popping up on the

make no less than six completely

you have a need, give them a call and

menu. Everything from stroganoff that

Moral of the story is, no matter what kind

we witnessed Phillip and his team

outskirts of the Metroplex, Phillip says if

different kinds of food from their catering

they’ll figure out if they can make it work!

will remind you of your grandmother’s

to brisket tacos to a stunning peach and chipotle glazed chicken.

of event you have going on, and no matter what kind of food you want to serve, give Seven Loaves Catering & Events a call

And just about everything Seven Loaves

to help you out. You will absolutely love

kitchen. Down to the tortilla and potato

your guests will swoon over the food!

caters is made from-scratch in their

working with the Smithwick family and

972.293.5111 SevenLoavesCatering.com 1305 S. Highway 121, Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067

chips they serve on the side. (Heck, even

the seasoning that goes on the tortilla and potato chips is made-from-scratch!)

Phillip told us he wants their catering

clients to feel like they’re getting a little taste of what it’s like in the Smithwick

home. You’ll never eat the same thing over and over again, you’ll never leave hungry,

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022 www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

Business Spotlight

Giving You The

SMILE OF YOUR LIFE

by Steve Gamel

What sets iO Dentistry apart? iO dentistry

Implantology, began the search for an additional provider. At the beginning

and general dentistry for the entire family

of 2019, Dr. Thi Kim Nguyen joined the

at all phases of life.

practice. She was that perfect fit bringing

Dr. Perez has close to 25 years of

her compassion and her gentle approach with all patients, especially pediatric patients. Dr. Nguyen wanted to return home to the area she grew up in to give back through her expertise within a practice in her home community. As a graduate of the University of Texas

experience and constantly stays on the cutting edge of innovative treatment

options with predictable and comfortable results. Dr Perez is proficient in the

revolutionary All-on-4® fixed bridge dental implant procedure. Rather than resting on

the gum line like loose and uncomfortable removable dentures, This new denture is a

fully functional set of newly fixed teeth and can give patients a new smile in as little as

Health Science Center

one day with less discomfort and stress.

in San Antonio, for both

“As our practice continues to grow,

undergrad and dental

school, she is a Texas focuses on providing grown Dentist who is dental services that meet happy to be back at the needs of all patients, home in the great state as well as creating an photographed above is Dr. Nguyen of Texas. atmosphere throughout the office that delivers a Dr. Nguyen joins iO Dentistry boutique great patient experience at every visit. practice and a team of dental specialists With the growth and expansion of iO Dentistry, Dr. Perez, a specialist in Prosthetic Dentistry and Dental

full mouth reconstruction, veneers,

who have created the perfect fusion of specialty treatments including implants, orthodontic services, surgery, cosmetic,

it is exciting to be a part of our growth,” Dr. Nguyen said.

“The goal here has always been to give our patients the smile of their life,” Dr.

Perez said. “I give patients the confidence and courage to face the world with a

beautiful, healthy and functional smile.”

If you are ready for the smile of your life, call the office today at 469.289.5707 to

schedule your consultation, or visit online at iodentistry.com.

469.289.5707 • www.iODentistry.com • 1616 W. Hebron Pkwy., #100 • Carrollton, TX 75010 20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

photography of team by Guy T Photography | photo of Dr. Nguyen courtesy of iO Dentistry

i

O Dentistry is a result of two successful dental practices merging to form a boutique style practice. iO dentistry offers all dental services from general dentistry, to orthodontic services, to indepth patient needs related to prosthetic and implant dentistry. Previously known as Fairway Dental and Peppermint Dental & Orthodontics, iO Dentistry’s new name was created with a specialty focus on implants “i” and Orthodontics “O” in addition to all general dentistry services.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

S

ummer is just around the corner! Are you looking for some fun camps that will keep your kids active —physically, mentally and spiritually?

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Castle Hills Kids ‘R’ Kids is launching Kaleidoscope 360, a unique program offering exciting weekly themed camps throughout the entire summer! This program intends on redefining the camp experience for kids from kindergarten through elementary with fieldtrips, outdoor challenges, sports and more! Your child will look forward to a new set of adventures each week at Kaleidoscope 360. Call 972.483.9675 to enroll your child in this one of a kind summer expedition!

22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

Camp Invention Lewisville High School is hosting Camp Invention, a “Supercharged” themed innovative summer camp for kids from 1st through 6th grade.

Children will draw from STEM concepts as they take on 4 fun challenges that will teach them engineering and innovation skills, coding techniques, how to run a business and more. Challenges include inventing and adapting devices to stop “supervillains,” working as a team to create survival tools when they find themselves stranded on an island, how to reverse engineer an orbot, and how to manage their own farm business! From June 10-14, your child will have a blast discovering their creative potential at Camp Invention.

Tri-Sharks Splash and Dash Camp Each Tri-Shark Youth Triathlon Camp provides a fun training experience to introduce kids to the sport of triathlon! This year Tri-Sharks is hosting a Splash and Dash Summer camp focused on swimming and running skills. Located at the Westside Aquatic Center in Lewisville, kids ages 6 and over are welcome to join a 3-day camp that is a great preparation opportunity for the Little Buggy Kids Triathlon in September. There will be a Splash and Dash Race the last day of camp for kids to show off their new skills, as well as an award ceremony. Visit trisharkscoaching.com/summer_camp to sign up!

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

DAY DINING IDEAS

I

by Steve Gamel

f you’re looking for dining options for Mother’s Day, there are a variety of local favorites and hidden gems, and below are just a few.

photo courtesy of Nikugen Steak & Ramen Facebook Page

Mother’s

Nikugen Steak & Ramen

Nikugen Steak & Ramen 469.294.0417 • 4710 Preston Rd., Ste. 300 Frisco, TX 75034 A new Japanese restaurant in town, Nikugen Steak & Ramen serves traditional dishes that are sure to be the talk of the town, including ramen, sushi, steak, and various chicken dishes. If mom is craving something different than your ordinary restaurant, this is the place to be.

photo courtesy of Seasons 52 Facebook Page

Seasons 52 KANZI Sushi and Hibachi Restaurant 972.899.9779 • 2560 King Arthur Blvd., Ste. #142 Lewisville, TX 75056 Give your pallet a kick with KANZI. The portions are big, which means you are bound to take home some leftovers. Customers may also BYOB to go along with your beautifully plated meal.

KANZI Sushi and Hibachi Restaurant

Seasons 52 972.312.8852 • 7300 Lone Star Dr., Ste. C100 Plano, TX 75024 This place has a rotating menu of seasonal American dishes alongside international wines in an upscale setting.

What makes this place amazing is that everything on their food menu is under 600 calories.

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

LEWISVILLE

CORNER What Does A

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DO And Why Should You Join One?

T

he best way to spread the word about your business is by making connections. Whether you’re new to the local community or a veteran company that has been around for decades, your reputation grows as you engage in other influential entities within your community. That’s why so many businesses choose to join a chamber of commerce. These resourceful organizations are made to help local businesses thrive. Local chambers tackle both issues and trends taking place in their community as well as offer resources and services to help local businesses succeed. It isn’t just a goodwill effort, but an effective strategy.

A local chamber of commerce

44

%

63% 63

%

of consumers are more likely to think favorably of businesses who are members of their local chamber 63% of consumers are more likely to buy products or services from businesses who are members of their local chamber Consumers view chamber of commerce members as trustworthy and are 12% more likely to believe their products or services are better than competitors

organization has a reputation for

standing up for the local community

and its economy. When your business is associated with this, it gives the

perception that you stand for these

things, too. As a result, consumers trust you more. A chamber of commerce is a community within itself. It brings its

members together to not only benefit the

community but also to benefit each other.

Through various events, you will meet,

Get Involved with Your Local Chamber of Commerce From directory listings to spotlight features, exposure, and sponsored events, you can gain access to valuable promotional opportunities at a fraction of the cost it would take to do them yourself. Plus, with established chambers having numerous connections within the community, you will find that your ability to make a local impact grows exponentially.

network, and connect with a wide array of influential professionals. It’s up to

you to make the connection, of course, but the opportunities are aplenty.

Many businesses grow their customer

base and their network through chamber sponsored or hosted events.

26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Real Estate Article

It’s HAIL SEASON

Y’all

W

hen you live in North Texas, it’s easy to grow accustomed to unpredictable weather. One day it could be sunny and 75 degrees, and the next day, the wind chill makes it feel like 18 degrees with a chance of scattered thunderstorms.

It can be aggravating, but for the most part, everyone goes with the flow. Well, unless there’s hail – anything but hail!

According to the National Storm Damage Center, hail, which can be as small as a pea to as large as softballs, causes about $1 billion in damages in the United States each year to vehicles, houses, outside furniture, and anything else it feels like pelting in the middle of the night. We all know a comprehensive assessment of the damage to your home – especially if it involves climbing up on your roof – needs to performed by a licensed, neighborhood roofing expert, but there are a few things homeowners can safely look for from the ground to get an idea of whether or not they may have a damaged roof:

Chips or Cracks in Windows and Siding The hail may not have been big enough or lasted long enough to break a window, but pay close attention to the caulking around your windows – are there chips, tears, or cracks? If you have window screens, are they bent or missing? How about the siding on your house?

Are there punctures of any kind? Write all this stuff down to point out to your roofer.

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

Leaks Inside The House

Missing Shingles

Homeowners spend so much time leaping outside to spot potential damage that they ignore telltale signs inside the home. These can include leaks in the ceiling, attic, or excess water pooling on the inside of your fireplace.

Bottom line, if there are any leaks whatsoever, you need to call a roofing professional immediately.

Again, leave climbing on the roof to a professional.

But sometimes all it takes to spot signs of a potentially bigger problem is by walking around the perimeter of your property with a pair of binoculars to see if there are any missing shingles. Also check the grass, swimming pool, and nearby landscaping for debris such as roofing nails, shingles that may have blown off, large tree limbs, or granules that have collected near downspouts. www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

Here’s a Layman’s Guide To Roof Hail Damage

by Steve Gamel

Dented or Loose Gutters and Downspouts Your gutters are often a perfect indicator that there’s a bigger problem on the roof.

Even if they aren’t loose and haven’t fallen off your house, your gutters may have dents and dings in the metal from the hail repeatedly pounding on them.

Hail damage on your vehicles If the hail storm was significant enough to damage your vehicle, then the same thing likely happened to your roof. Have it looked at by a roofing pro immediately.

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

Hail Splatter Marks, Scrapes on Fences, Decks, and Wood Surfaces Depending on the color of your fence or deck, hail marks can look like someone splattered them with white paint. Look for holes, cracks, chips, splits, or general unsightly marks or indentations.

Chimney Damage Chimney damage can sometimes be very easy to spot if you notice holes in the siding. Another telltale sign of hidden damage is a water leak anywhere in the vicinity of where the chimney is.

There are a million other items on your property, including your mailbox, playsets, and outdoor lighting that will help you determine if your roof was likely damaged in a hail storm.

If you believe you may have hail damage, there are reputable roofing companies all over Denton County that will gladly provide a free and detailed inspection and give you tips on what to do next if there is enough damage to file a claim.

APRIL 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

What is Cinco de Mayo?

by Susan Neuhalfen

C

inco de Mayo (or May 5), a national holiday in Mexico and drinking holiday in the U.S., celebrates the victory of a small Mexican militia over the French army three times its size and much better equipped for battle. Though not a major victory,

the victory at Battle of Puebla was a huge moral victory for Mexico, proving they could defend their country and eventually force the French to withdrawal.

We are happy, of course, because being a border state we have become slaves to their food and Margaritas. Here are a few recipes that you can make this May 5th memorable as we toast the underdogs.

LIZ’S CARNE ASADA GREEN CHILE RICE

(MMG employee authentic family recipe) Ingredients

AVOCADO MARGARITAS (recipe from Curra’s Grill in Austin) Ingredients •

2 C. crushed ice

•

6 oz Tequila of your choice

•

1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced

•

2 oz triple sec

•

4 oz lime juice

•

pinch of cilantro

•

salt

Put ice, tequila, avocado, triple sec, lime juice and cilantro in a blender until smooth. Serve with or without kosher salt on the rim. Yields 4 servings.

30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | APRIL 2019

(courtesy of MMG’s resident California brand of Mexican - her words, not ours) Ingredients •

5 lb (1 lb per person usually) of thin sliced Beef Steaks

2 cups chicken broth

•

4 lb bag of oranges

3 whole, fresh roasted green chiles, skinned and chopped OR 1 (4 oz.) can chopped green chiles

•

Chef Merito Carne Asada Seasoning

•

1 large glass pan to hold/marinate meat in

•

Outdoor grill

•

1 ½ cups cooked rice

• •

•

½ teaspoon salt

•

½ teaspoon garlic salt

•

½ teaspoon ground pepper

•

1 ½ cups Monterey Jack Cheese (can substitute with Pepper Jack Cheese), shredded

•

1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded

•

1 cup Sour Cream

Mix Monterey Jack cheese, seasoned cooked rice, sour cream and green chile.

Lay in 8x10 pan. Add layer of Cheddar Cheese. Sprinkle the top with Paprika.

Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes.

Cut oranges in half then set aside to use later. Take out a slice of steak and place it in the glass pan. Squeeze orange half over one side then shake the steak seasoning over the meat. Flip and then drench the other side with more orange juice and shake the seasoning on it. Take out another slice of steak then repeat the process over the already drenched piece underneath it. Marinate until the all of the meat is in the pan. If you have any orange halves left, squeeze over the meat. If you want extra orange flavor you can grate some of the rind over the meat. Cover and let marinate for 2-4 hours. Grill and enjoy with corn or flour tortillas! www.CastleHillsMagazine.com