Life in Castle Hills Magazine August 2021

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021 - THE WOMEN OF INFLUENCE ISSUE

DEDICATED TO YOUR

HEALTH &

BEAUTY www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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

TABLE OF

Contents ARTICLES

PAGE

16

DEDICATED TO YOUR

HEALTH &

BEAUTY Cover Image MedSuite’s Owner and

Medical Director Dr. Anam Tharoo

08 10 Hot Weekend Spots For Girls 10 Setting the Stage for the Future of Denton County 12 Inside Community & Education 15 5 Things to Try 19 Dedicated to Texas Committed to Texans 22 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree 24 Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell 28 Paving the Way for the Future

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

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

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

YAY!

THE KIDDOS

T

ARE BACK TO

SCHOOL

here is so much to talk about with our latest issue!

Not only are we justifiably highlighting women of influence in our community, but the kiddos are officially back in school! If you remember — and I know you do — last year was a little iffy when it came to the start of school because of COVID-19. Some kids were in person, others were learning virtually, and the traditions of school supplies, new clothes, carpool lines, and big yellow school busses each morning looked drastically different.

All opinions aside about the pandemic, I really do have a heart for working parents who stepped in as homeschoolers, the teachers who shifted lesson plans, administrators who tirelessly worked behind the scenes, coaches who kept our kids in the game, and the students who found a way to roll with the punches.

Our kids deserve nothing but the best — now and well into the future. And I know they will continue to make us proud during the 2021-22 school year.

We hope you enjoy the latest issue. Along with back-toschool stories, we are celebrating women in business.

Many of the women I have interviewed for this issue all spoke of being true to themselves and having strong allies in their corner. They spoke on balancing work and home life — how it comes with ups and downs but to focus on the positive and find ways to do the things that make you happy.

I wish you and your family the best of luck as we start the new school year!

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Editor & Writer Steve Gamel

Writers

Caylie Howard, Diane Ciarloni Jade Kensington, Jean Eisenmann Leena Duwadi, Mark Miller

Advertising Inquiries

sales@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Cayla Thompson Michele Cunningham-Scott

Photography

Miranda Longoria Photography Your Candid Memories Photography What’s That Guy’s Name? Guy T Photography

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 Inquiries Call 972.899.3637 or email editor@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. © 2021 Murray Media Group

Stay well, stay kind, and be blessed.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray 6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

HOT

WEEKEND SPOTS

FOR GIRLS

1. Fredericksburg

Are you looking for a hot spot for your weekend’s girl trip? Fredericksburg is the perfect spot for you. Fredericksburg is known for its wineries. You can stay in one of their quaint bed and breakfasts, shop and explore the town during the day, and relax with a glass of wine in the evening. It’s the perfect place for you to unwind with your girls for a weekend.

2. Granbury Granbury is the perfect getaway for any girl’s weekend. They have a cute town square with lots of shops and restaurants for you to enjoy. If you’re looking to cool off during the day, they are also home to Granbury Lake, where you can boat, water ski, and more. If you’re looking for a unique nighttime experience, you can also check out their historical ghost tour that they host on the square. Granbury is sure to show you and your girls a great time!

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3. Dallas You don’t have to travel far to experience a fun weekend with your girlfriends.

Dallas is home to some amazing history. You can check out any number of their

museums, eat delicious foods at any of their fabulous restaurants, and experience some amazing shopping experiences. A weekend in Dallas is just what the doctor ordered for your hot girl weekend!

4. Fort Worth If you’re looking for a boot scootin’ good time with your girls for a weekend, then look no further than Ft. Worth. You can take a tour of the historical district of this fun little

town during the day, and then dance the night away at one of their country dance halls

and bars. And don’t forget to take a stroll in the Ft. Worth Stockyards. Ft. Worth is a girl’s trip you won’t forget!

5. San Antonio San Antonio is a fun way to spend a weekend away with your girls. You can remember the Alamo by taking a tour of the historic building, enjoy delicious food from their

variety of restaurants, then take a River Walk boat ride in the evening. This trip is a surefire way to ensure that you and your girls have a fantastic weekend getaway!

6. Salado Salado is the perfect little town for your relaxing girls weekend getaway. You can stay at

the historic Stagecoach Inn, explore the Royal Street District, Browse Unique Boutiques, and enjoy some delicious wine. This is the perfect little trip for you and your girlfriends to experience a weekend of memories.

the Galveston Island Historic Pier in the evening, and dine on some delicious food. This is the perfect little town for a weekend at the beach with your girls!

9. Dripping Springs Are you looking for a sip and relax girl’s weekend? If so, Dripping Springs is the place for you. They are home to some of the best wineries and breweries. You’ll get to experience unique tastes and flavors that you will only find here, in Dripping Springs. If you and your girls are wine connoisseurs, this is the trip for you!

10. Austin

7. Waco Are you and your girlfriend’s wannabe fixer uppers? Waco is the home of the original Fixer Uppers, Chip and Joanna Gaines. You can take a stroll around the Magnolia

Silos, enjoy a delicious Magnolia cupcake at their bakery, and even eat at the Gaines’

restaurant in Waco. Waco is the perfect place to live out your redecorating dreams with your girls!

8. Galveston Are you in need of a beach vacation with your girls? Galveston is a great little town

to explore with your girlfriends. You can relax on the beach during the day, explore www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

The capital of our beloved Lonestar State is a great weekend getaway for you and your girls. You can experience the history of our home state by taking a tour of our capitol building. If you’re looking to cool down, you can take a swim in the Barton Springs Municipal Pool. You can also enjoy some delicious cuisine that is unique to Austin. Austin is more than just our state capital, it’s a great girl’s weekend destination!

AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Setting The Stage

FUTURE For The

O f

D e n t o n

C o u n t y

by Denton County Judge Andy Eads photo courtesy of Judge Andy Eads

E

nsuring Denton County continues to have a thriving economy is an important part of County government and one the Denton County Commissioners Court takes very seriously.

Despite recent challenges, growth across Denton County is rapidly increasing as

new businesses – large and small – flock to

our region. In fact, new projects have been ongoing since the middle of last year, not slowing at all. Calls for available office

space are constant while major housing developments, townhome projects,

and apartments are under construction throughout the county.

With a current estimated population of

911,912, Denton County is not far from

topping the 1 million mark – a milestone

now anticipated by 2025. We are growing at a faster pace than what was projected just five years ago when our population was expected to hit 1 million in 2030.

By 2050, the latest estimates call for our

population to reach more than 2.3 million.

Jobs grew by 45,488 in the past five years and are projected to grow by

40,810 in the next five years. The median

household income, as reported in 2018, is now $83,400 in Denton County – around $23,100 above the national median household income of $60,300.

The rapid growth is exactly why we are focused on drawing high-paying jobs to Denton County and providing a diverse portfolio of positions to meet the needs of all residents. In just the last five years, we’ve attracted such top companies as Farmer Brothers, Tanger Outlets, Mary Kay, Charles Schwab, Tyson, two Stanley Black & Decker facilities, Thirty-One Gifts, Gulfstream, ASCO/Texaplex, Ariat, the PGA headquarters, Grandscape, Schluter, Ericsson, Belltown Solar, and a major expansion of Retractable Technologies Inc. Together, these projects have invested billions into Denton County, some relocating regional and national headquarters along with higher wages in an array of industries from solar power to tourism, technology and much more.

When you stop to think about it, Denton County has become THE place to live, work, and play in the region, state, and the U.S. We have also worked tirelessly in the last few decades to ensure transportation needs are being addressed as more vehicles traverse our highways. We expanded FM 2499, Interstate 35E, FM 1171, west U.S. 380 with plans underway for east U.S. 380, and much more. Soon, you will see construction along Interstate 35W in the main lanes and frontage roads as well as in the area where 35E and 35W merge. Plans are being drawn for Loop 288 West with an estimated let date of 2026 to complete the loop both east and west of I-35 in Denton.

And that is just the beginning.

We will continue to plan ahead to ensure adequate access throughout the county. We also work with the Denton County Transportation Authority to provide alternative transportation via bus routes and the A-train as well as with our cities and towns to address their ongoing needs.

The Denton County Commissioners Court also recognizes the importance of balancing this fast-paced growth and the requisite infrastructure requirements while keeping our taxpayers top of mind.

Among the top 15 counties in Texas, we have the lowest countywide tax rate at .224985 since we do not have hospital or college districts. And we aim to keep it that way.

A thriving, diverse economy coupled with meeting residents’ needs for transportation, housing, education, and income is the legacy we want to leave for decades to come. It is important we all work together to create the Denton County we can all be proud of for future generations to enjoy.

CONNECT WITH US

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you.

940.349.2820 | andy.eads@dentoncounty.com | www.Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup 10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

INSIDE COMMUNITY

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK @CastleHillsMagazine

HOPEFUL HEARTS 5K STAMPEDE On September 25 in Old Town Lewisville come run for the Hopeful Hearts 5k Stampede benefiting Christian Community Action! Registration includes a t-shirt, goody bag, free food and drinks, and an opportunity to win individual and team contests with great prizes! There will be music, an auction and a VIP party for the top sponsors to meet former Dallas Cowboy and three-time Super Bowl Champion Tony Tolbert! For more information visit ccahelps.org/hopeful-hearts or contact Sandra.Sims@ccahelps.org.

GUIDED KAYAK TOUR On September 12 Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA) is hosting a guided kayak tour at Beaver Pond. All skill levels are welcome, all equipment will be provided, and children ages 9 and up can join. You will drift under willows, float past reeds and cattails, and see what wildlife is in our backyards. This area is a haven for turtles, frogs, fish, beavers, and other species. Go to https://bit.ly/3zCPcNA for more information and to register.

INSIDE EDUCATION

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VIRTUAL ART SHOW Traditionally, Lewisville ISD’s district-wide art shows are held at Medical City Lewisville Grand Theater where students, families, and friends gather to admire students’ artwork, but this year the galleries were closed. Thanks to the Visual Arts Leadership team, LISD was able to showcase the students’ art virtually and families could view the gallery just by clicking a link. Upon entering audiences were transported to the gallery shows they know and love! photo courtesy of Lewisville ISD

LEWISVILLE ISD IS HIRING Lewisville ISD is hiring for multiple positions across the district. To view the open positions and to apply visit https://www.applitrack.com/lewisvilleisd/onlineapp/.

Keep in mind you must complete an LISD job application to be considered for a position. Once you’ve completed it, you may send a letter of interest as well as your resume to the campus and/or department.

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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FOOD TRUCKS IN THE PARKS THE LONDON BAKER NEW LOCATION The beloved London Baker has opened a new location at 4400 TX-121 Ste. 60, Lewisville!! This new location is absolutely beautiful and features navy blue walls, turquoise sofas, and brown leather booths. This bakery creates the most incredible desserts that are even more delicious than they look. On top of that, the owner, Elizabeth Rowe was even on the Food Network shows, Cake Wars and Food Network Challenge. photo courtesy of The London Baker Facebook page

Head over to Thrive (1950 S. Valley Pkwy., Lewisville) on Wednesday, September 8 from 3-8pm to enjoy some delicious Righteous BBQ for Food Trucks in the Parks! From loaded mac to BBQ quesadillas to BBQ sandwiches and more, Righteous BBQ has all the best BBQ foods you could search for. Come check them out!

COLONY HIGH BIOLOGY TEACHER OF THE YEAR The Colony High School biology teacher, Curry Goff was recently named Lewisville ISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year! Mr. Goff was born and raised in Little Elm and has been teaching at The Colony High for four years. We congratulate Mr. Goff on this amazing accomplishment! photo courtesy of Lewisville ISD

HEBRON SENIOR PHOTOS Attention Class of 2022! You will need to have your senior photos taken with Prestige Photography on or before October 2nd to be included in the yearbook. Go to either https://prestigeportraits.com or https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/jssjt14/ to schedule an appointment to get your photos taken. If you have any questions you can contact Prestige Photography’s Plano studio at 972.669.9200.

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

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Things 5TO TRY little orange fish 601 S. Main St., Ste. 101 • Grapevine, TX little orange fish is a fun-filled children’s boutique that carries children’s clothing in girl’s sizes 0-12 and boy’s sizes 0-8.

They have many different brands to suit a variety of styles and carry high-end lines as well as budget-friendly fashions.

No matter what you or your child is looking for, you’ll find it here.

Heaven Sent Boutique & Gifts 2585 MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 1100 • Lewisville, TX

Heaven Sent Children’s Boutique has been outfitting children in fun, upscale clothing for the past 15 years. They carry clothing for boys and girls from infants to age 14 years old. They also carry a huge assortment of unique gifts and accessories to complement each outfit.

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Janie & Jack 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy., Ste. 425 Grapevine, TX Janie and Jack is a design house with every kid at its heart. They make clothes that last, that you can pass down from sibling to sibling. They carry clothing for boys and girls from newborn to age 16 years old. Their collections feature modern twists on class fashion.

Pickled Pink Children’s Boutique 148 S. Elm St. • Keller, TX

Half-Pint Children’s Boutique 108 W. Oak St., Ste. 102 • Denton, TX

Pickled Pink Children’s Boutique is owned by Texas native, Shannon, who opened up this children’s boutique in 2009. It consists of multiple vendors and a wide selection of personalized clothing and gifts, giving customers the ultimate shopping experience. They also carry many exclusive lines you can only find at Pickled Pink.

Half-Pint Children’s Boutique carries many different brands to suit a variety of budgets and styles. They have clothing items for boys and girls from newborn to size 6, and toys and accessories for a variety of ages. They also offer monogramming services to customize your children’s clothing and accessories.

AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

DEDICATED TO YOUR

HEALTH & BEAUTY T

here are women who seem to navigate through life radiating confidence and vitality. They exude such positive energy that it’s a pleasure just to be near them.

That kind of self-assuredness usually stems from feeling really good about yourself – both inside and out. It’s safe to say that most of us want to achieve that level of self-fulfillment, and most of the time, we need more than positive thinking to become that fortunate person.

“MedSuite was a vision that came to life when the time was right...

None of it came easily.”

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

MedSuite at Castle Hills has the resources and talent you need to look, feel, and become your best self. Located within the vibrant community of Castle Hills in Carrollton, this premier integrative medical aesthetic center offers the most advanced, results-oriented treatments in a safe and modern environment.

“How you look on the outside often reflects how you feel on the inside, including your mental and emotional health,” MedSuite’s Owner and Medical Director Dr. Anam Tharoo remarked.

Dr. Tharoo is a board-certified, multifaceted family medicine physician with an impressive list of credentials. She has provided care for patients, delivered babies, and has consulted on adult medicine, cardiac, orthopedic, and intensive care units. A distinguished and highly regarded physician within

by Jean Eisenmann photography by Miranda Longoria Photography

“These women feel empowered enough to empower me...”

North Texas, Dr. Tharoo currently serves as the vice chief of staff at Carrollton Regional Medical Center. She is a boardcertified physician with the American Board of Family Medicine and also volunteers her time with the Ismaili Health Professionals Association.

Maintaining that life-long dedication to improving and enriching the lives of others, Dr. Tharoo worked in a hospital, enjoyed a thriving career, and nurtured a family – husband Danish and two boys, Noah 8, and Jonah, 3. Following her heart, she made the life-changing decision to drive her talent, compassion, and experience in a new direction.

Dr. Tharoo wanted to shift career gears to a more sustainable familyfriendly business of helping people in a new realm.

“It was a tough decision to leave Family Medicine for Aesthetic Medicine,” she said. “MedSuite was a vision that came to life when the time was right, the mission was set, and the resources were available.

None of it came easily.” www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

No stranger to education, she returned to the training arena to meet this new

challenge with great enthusiasm driven by motivation. Though Dr. Tharoo is

already highly accomplished in a broad variety of medical procedures and techniques, “I had to continue to remain up to date with product

innovations and the needs of our clients,” she acknowledged.

MedSuite at Castle Hills opened their

doors in October 2020. Utilizing the latest in medical and aesthetic technology, this

modern, client-focused medical aesthetic clinic offers best-in-class services such as injectables, non-surgical body and facial

rejuvenation, customized facials and peels, and advanced laser treatments – including BeautiFill™ – a non-surgical laser

liposuction and fat transfer treatment.

Dr. Tharoo is most proud of the monthly membership programs at MedSuite,

which encourage clients to be consistent and accountable.

“We develop a monthly treatment plan

to address the client’s concerns. Clients receive a service of their choice once

a month, included in the membership

price,” she explained. “If you skip a month, service for that month can carry over to

the next. Or if you know in advance you

won’t be able to come in for a month or

two, your membership can be placed on

hold. We strive to ensure that every dollar you spend is beneficial for you.”

The team at MedSuite is committed to

continued learning and growth on new

modalities of skincare and products. The

staff is well equipped with tools to tackle

any skincare or aging concerns. Educating our clients is of the utmost priority, and

customizing treatment plans is what sets them apart. “We want our clients to feel empowered,” Dr. Tharoo emphasized.

Dr. Tharoo envisioned MedSuite, but she did not do it alone.

“I cannot thank my family, my mentors, colleagues, and friends enough for www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

encouraging and supporting me. I am most humbled by the outpouring of support from women around me – friends and clients alike,” Dr. Tharoo marveled.

“These women feel empowered enough to empower me. I have already gained the most wonderful clients who go above and beyond to support our cause.”

Given Dr. Tharoo’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the health, appearance, and confidence of women through MedSuite at Castle Hills, she is certainly determined to pay it forward.

972.474.3400 | Med-Suite.com 1790 King Arthur Blvd., Ste. 140 Carrollton, TX 75010

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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D

O

CAT ED I D T E

TEXAS C O M M I T T E D TO T E X A N S

by Jean Eisenmann | photos courtesy of Kronda Thimesch

H

er grandmother grew up in a home with dirt floors and didn’t finish high school.

Her dad’s family were farmers in Oklahoma living a simple, hardworking life. She herself was born to humble beginnings in the oil patch region of New Mexico.

Now she is a candidate for the Texas House of Representatives – House District 65, that serves a portion of Denton County.

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

“In America, it doesn’t matter where you

landscaping designs,” Kronda recollected.

affirmed. “If you are persistent and work

when starting the business from scratch,

came from,” candidate Kronda Thimesch hard, anything is possible. That’s the American Dream.”

From Kronda’s early years in New Mexico, the family moved to New Orleans, and

eventually her father’s job transfer found them calling Midland, Texas home.

Family influence seemed to be a recurring factor in Kronda’s life.

“We always valued hard work, faith, and

family,” she recollected. “On my mother’s side of the family, the importance of education was always stressed. My

“There were challenges along the way and lots of ‘beans and rice days.’”

Today, their grassroots business has

blossomed into the successful Green

Meadows Landscaping – a local employer and part of Lewisville’s thriving business community.

While raising four kids and remaining

active in both church and community,

Kronda was also involved in PTA when

the kids were young. Later, she became

Hebron High School’s first female football booster club president. As both business

paternal grandfather served as county

owner and community member, her

desire to serve the public might be in my

“I’ve been involved in chambers of

chairman for the Republican Party, so the blood,” she speculated with a grin.

voice was heard.

commerce, such as those in Lewisville,

Community service always has been

The Colony, and Metrocrest, all of which

in Louisiana. Kronda demonstrated

There, professional women in business

president, student council secretary,

network. I encourage other women to

squad. As a senior considering landscape

Kronda proposed.

her calling, even throughout high school

include women’s divisions and forums.

leadership skills early in life as class

have opportunities to learn, grow, and

and an officer for the cheerleading

look into these and similar venues,”

architecture, Kronda had the option of

Always willing to give more of herself,

two Texas colleges offering that field of study: A&M and Texas Tech — the latter

being her final choice. Ultimately, Kronda earned a bachelor’s degree and also met her future husband, Jeff, who

Kronda was elected to the Lewisville ISD school board, one of the largest school districts in Texas, in 2015. Three years later, she won again.

shared her academic major!

“A school board is nonpartisan,” she

The couple married right after college and

and serve everyone in the community.

started a landscaping business out of their garage.

“Jeff mowed lawns, and I worked for

Coca-Cola. In the evenings, I worked on

explained. “You work with everyone

“Whatever my professional title is, has been, or will be in the future, it’s not about the position,” Kronda remarked. “It’s the opportunity to serve. I want to leave something better than the condition in which I found it, and for those to enjoy who come along behind.”

Her advice to others? “No opportunity is too small if it leaves the world a better place than before. I join those who look toward the end result rather than the journey. Also, consider how to contribute to those we meet along the way. Not all opportunities to serve are noticed. I never accepted a job to be noticed, only to make things better.”

Within her political platform, safety is a priority.

“And we absolutely need to ensure that we keep the Texas economy strong,” Kronda asserted. “No other state embraces higher values than Texas toward making the American Dream possible.”

This woman who hails from humble roots and modest beginnings has earned a college degree, grown a business, served on a school board, and is running for political office.

“Don’t be discouraged from pursuing your dream. It often takes a long time, but it’s worth it,” she added. “I am running for State Representative to ensure Texas remains the land of endless opportunity for future generations.”

In this particular role, my objective was representing the best interests of the children.”

Kronda stepped down when she was

asked to run for state representative, so

her campaign wouldn’t cause a distraction for the school board.

“I wanted then – as I do today – to ensure

that our children receive a good education by supporting our teachers and the quality of education in the classroom,” Kronda emphasized. ”I was glad for the time I spent with the LISD.” 20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

SHERIFF’S W I T H

S H E R I F F

T R A C Y

WE ARE CURRENTLY HIRING

DETENTION OFFICERS!

D

etention Officers perform specialized law enforcement work in the care and security of inmates to ensure their constitutional rights and welfare are safeguarded in the County Jail. A typical work day could involve admitting and booking inmates, supervising trustees, ensuring security of inmates and the Jail, performing commissary duties, receiving and maintaining an inventory of inmate property and supplies, performing control operations, performing inmate classification duties, and preparing and transporting inmates. Additional responsibilities may include monitoring cameras, monitoring emergency systems, performing various life and fire safety activities, performing telephone and radio communications and performing duties as a member of the Extraction Team.

If you or anyone you know might be interested in a career in Law Enforcement, and you meet the following minimum qualifications, you can apply online.

• Good moral character.

• Must be 18 years of age.

• High School diploma or GED required.

• Must be a U.S. citizen.

• Must attain certification by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement as a

Jailer within one (1) year of employment.

• Possession of a valid Driver’s License.

Must be able to obtain a State of

Texas driver’s license within 90 days.

Once hired, Detention Officers will go through on-the-job training before

attending The Basic County Corrections Class, which is on site at The Denton

County Sheriff’s Office. This is where the

certification by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) is obtained.

M U R P H R E E

WE ARE HIRING If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization.

Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year. Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty

Detention Officers’ starting salary ranges from $38,752 - $44,952 depending on education and experience. Detention Officers receive a wide range of benefits including: health care

benefits, longevity pay, stipends for

education/bilingual proficiency, tuition

reimbursement, county retirement plan, provided equipment, exceptional Law

Enforcement training in preparation for

TCOLE licensing, and many promotional opportunities within Law Enforcement.

www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ dentoncounty

940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.GOV/707/SHERIFF 22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

BOBBIE MITCHELL

COMMISSIONER

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | AUGUST 2021

“People will work with you if you work with them. People will respect you if you respect them. We don’t have all of the answers, but we can be a resource to the people.”

by Caylie Howard | photos courtesy of Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell

O

ver the years, our world has produced some of the most influential women in history. We have seen the world of women blossom with opportunities. We have seen women, quite literally, change the world as we know it. As residents of Denton County, we are privileged to say that we are home to some of the women that hold the prestigious title of women of influence. It’s safe to say that there is no one more deserving of the title of an influential woman than our very own Denton County Commissioner, Bobbie Mitchell. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

Commissioner Mitchell has been a loyal resident of Lewisville since 1971. She is the proud wife of her husband, Fred, loving mother to her two children, Darin and Rhonda, adoring grandmother to her nine grandchildren, and a great grandmother to three.

“Above all, I serve the Lord. I am blessed and highly favored.” Commissioner Mitchell said.

Commissioner Mitchell retired from GTE in May of 1993 after 20 years of service in various management positions.

“I believe that a business background was very beneficial in my political career.

There’s a lot of red tape that you have to go through to get things done.”

Commissioner Mitchell said.

In 1985, Commissioner Mitchell joined the City of Lewisville’s Zoning Board of Adjustment. She served on the board until 1987 when she joined the City of Lewisville Planning and Zoning Commission, to which she served until www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

“There was a little bit of racism involved, but I had the support of the Chamber of Commerce to take racism out of the election.”

1990. “A lot of people don’t like to start by serving on boards, but for me it was a positive.” Commissioner Mitchell said.

From there, Commissioner Mitchell went on to serve two years on Lewisville’s City Council.

In 1992, Commissioner Mitchell served as Deputy Mayor Pro Tem, until 1993 when she became acting Mayor of Lewisville.

She served in that role until 2000.

In 2000, the opportunity to run for Commissioner of Precinct 3 opened up.

This opportunity did not come without its challenges.

“This was my first time running as a Republican. This was a party office.

I had two opponents to begin with until one dropped out.” Commissioner Mitchell recalled. But that wasn’t the only obstacle in Commissioner Mitchell’s run for office. “There was a little bit of racism involved, but I had the support of the Chamber of Commerce to take racism out of the election.”

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As residents of Denton County, we are privileged to say that we are home to some of the women that hold the prestigious title of women of influence.

“Every one of us has a calling. I like to say God put me here for such a time as this.”

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Commissioner Mitchell went on to say, “I was a candidate for the people; for all of the people. Now I’m an elected official for the people. We are all the same, no matter our race. We are all God’s creations.

I’m looking forward to the day when we don’t refer to it as the first black Mayor of Lewisville, or the black Commissioner, or even a woman Commissioner. We just refer to it as Commissioner.”

She added, “Every one of us has a calling.

In the many years that Commissioner Mitchell has served Denton County, she has

Saying that Commissioner Mitchell has

learned some very wise lessons.

When asked what Commissioner Mitchell’s advice is for women considering running for office, her response was “first and foremost, pray about it. It can be a hard job. Then talk to some of your friends. Ask them how they feel about you becoming a public servant.

Then you should find out about the job.”

I like to say that God put me here for such a time as this.” Commissioner Mitchell

has prided herself on representing the

people of Denton County as a resource of information. “We can’t know everything.

But I make sure that people know that they can come to me. If I don’t have a

solution, I will point them in the direction of someone who does.”

served Denton County with grace and

outstanding leadership is nothing short of the truth. She has led with kindness,

acceptance, and wisdom for decades, and it is because of her amazing dedication to our County that Commissioner

Bobbie Mitchell is without a doubt to be considered one of our most influential women of Denton County.

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PAVING

THE WAY

FUTURE

I

and each time the community has rallied.

I can’t imagine surviving without the help of the community.” Lori said. “The time you take helping build up the community pays tenfold in the end.”

When asked about the advice Lori would give to future leaders, she said, “Never make your leadership about yourself. Seek to understand before being understood. The things you do

by Caylie Howard | photo courtesy of Lori Fickling

t takes someone special to be titled a leader of the community. It takes time, dedication, and passion for being a leader. Women worldwide have been paving the way for future generations of women to become future leaders of the world.

In our home of Denton County, we are honored and privileged to have a significant number of influential women leaders among us. Flower Mound resident Lori Fickling is among that elite group of women.

Lori’s long journey of service to her community started many years ago when she was a small-business owner.

She sought out the assistance of her local Chamber of Commerce for the sole purpose of marketing. “I can’t imagine having a business and not seeking out the help of your local Chamber of Commerce. Even if it’s for selfish reasons, like promoting yourself.”

Lori said.

From there, Lori went on to serve on the board of the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce. She was then promoted to vice chairman, went on to become interim president and eventually its president.

“I love my community. Serving the community is in my blood.” Lori said.

“I learned not to count on myself alone. Teamwork is better work.”

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But this job didn’t come without its challenges. As current president of the Lewisville Chamber of Commerce, Lori has faced the challenges of COVID-19, just like we all have.

“COVID was just terrible,” Lori said.

“Lots of businesses didn’t recover.

People didn’t feel safe. It was gutwrenching and a slow climb back.”

Over the many years of service to her community, Lori learned a lot about how to be the best leader that she could be.

“I learned not to count on myself alone.

Teamwork is better work. I learned not to take myself or things around me too seriously. I learned to value relationships and connections — to value the strength of the community.” Lori said.

Lori said that when times got tough, she learned how beneficial the community could be.

“I’ve experienced three tragedies in my years with the Chamber of Commerce,

Seek to understand before being understood. won’t always see the end result quickly, but the work you do is not wasted. Be aware of what you present and what you represent outwardly, and do things for the right reasons.

Be proud of your work.”

She added, “I love that I have invested in the community. I like that I’ve been in this place for decades. I’ve built great relationships that are priceless.” Lori said.

Lori Fickling has proven over many decades of service to her community just how invested she truly is. She has given heart, kindness, and understanding in everything that she has done for Denton County. Because of her leadership, it is easy to say that she is most definitely a woman of influence. www.LiveLocalMagazines.com

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