Life in Castle Hills Magazine January 2019

JANUARY 18, 2019 - FEBRUARY 15, 2019

7 TIPS ON TEACHING

YOUR KIDS

ABOUT MONEY EASY VALENTINE’S

DAY RECIPE

THE PERFECT PLACE

TO UNWIND

A Partner In Your

WEIGHT LOSS

FIGHT

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

2 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

Celebrating the

in Castle Hills Photos were submitted by area residents. If you’d like to submit your photos for publication or if you have any questions please email us at artwork@murray-media.com.

Of The Month

You can find both Socks and Rooney at the Gene Carey Animal Shelter 995 E. Valley Ridge Lewisville, Texas 75057 | 972.219.3478 10am-5pm Mon-Fri & 1pm-5pm on Sat Hi my name is Socks and I am about 9 months old.

I am a high energy pup, looking for an active family that can spend lots of time with me. I know the commands for sit, down, circle, roll over, and speak, but I need you to be consistent with me and training.

I have been an inside/outside dog that is kennel trained. I have lived with a cat, but I am very curious and like to chase them. I am sterilized, up-to-date on my vaccinations, and microchipped. If you think you are the one for me, come by today and get to know me.

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

Hi my name is Rooney and I am about 2 years old. I am a sweet guy that loves to be with people. I know the sit and shake commands. I am also good on the leash. I am sterilized, up-to-date on vaccinations, and microchipped. I would love to meet you. Come by today and get to know me.

info and photos courtesy of Gene Carey Animal Shelter Facebook

PET ADOPTION

JANUARY 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

TAKING

ACTION

IN 2019

T

he holiday season has passed, and as we settle into the new year we start to think about what we could better ourselves on. One of the big things that I hear everyone talking about is finances, and even though every person has a different problem with their financial standing, it all boils down to action.

For example, my friend has a terrible

Every person has a problem with this and it may not be in the financial area, but in a different area like staying on a diet or going to the gym. We all have our excuses for not fulfilling our goals, and even if they are legitimate, they are still excuses nonetheless. Wishing for a better life isn’t going to get you one. You have to be able to put it into action. In this issue, there are many different articles that can help you find a solution to your 2019 goal, like

things wasn’t working. So she had to

bettering your finances. You still need to put what you read into action, and that all comes down to you. If finances are your weak points you may need to have drastic rules in place to help keep you in check.

weakness when it comes to impulse

buying. She doesn’t even realize just how much she is spending since it’s just a

little here and a little there, but the little spontaneous purchases will add up to a whole lot of problems. She needed

help and telling her to just stop buying do something drastic. She gave herself a predetermined cash allowance every

month to spend on those spontaneous items. If she ran out before the month

ended, that was it. She wasn’t allowed to buy anything else.

It seems strange for an adult to have to

put such a rule in place, but sometimes that’s what we need.

When you think about what you want to change in 2019, think more about the

actions that need to be taken. Learning

your strategy is half the battle – the other half is taking action.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

17

08

On the Cover is: Dr. Hien Le of Lonestar Bariatrics

FEATURED: A Partner In Your Weight

ASK THE EXPERTS

14 Reading with The Reading Ranch 24 School Days with Valorie McGilvra 26 Organizing with Cloud Nine Organizing

Loss Fight

11 Inside Education 12 Putting the Human Touch Back into Financial Services 20 Hebron & The Colony Football All-District List 22 Student - Run Coffee Shop

18 Massage Envy: The Perfect Place to Unwind

23 Easy Valentine’s Day Recipe 27 New Restaurants Open in Castle Hills Village Shops

04 Castle Hills New Year’s Photos

28 Foodie Friday with Jay Marks Real Estate

ARTICLES

29 Chamber Corner

04 Pet Adoption of the Month

Teaching Your Kids About Money

10 Inside Community

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

PHOTOS FROM CASTLE HILLS

EDITORS PICK: 7 Tips on

30 Pet Spotlight

The Financial

ISSUE

Look for the icon above and get tips and tricks on how to manage your finances.

30 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

7 Financial Article

TIPS ON HOW TO START TEACHING YOUR KIDS

ABOUT MONEY

8 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

by Steve Gamel

M

any of us vaguely remember the day mom and dad first grabbed an old mason jar from the cabinet or bought a cute piggy bank from the dollar store and began taking the first steps toward teaching us about money. It was a critical time in our lives as we learned what money is, the value of it, and the importance of saving.

Looking back, those memories should also be a perfect reminder that it’s never too early to teach our own children.

But where do we start? Is it literally as simple as grabbing a piggy bank and a few quarters and nickels? The short answer is yes, but there are so many other tips and tricks that can make the process easy for both yourself and the kiddos.

In no particular order, here are seven

tips on how to start teaching your kids about money:

ENCOURAGE SAVING Yes, you can still grab a clear jar to create a visual experience for your child as they

GIVE THEM AN ALLOWANCE Remember, though, that an allowance

is something that’s both a privilege and

earned. As financial guru, Dave Ramsey, once wrote, “Don’t just give your kids

money for breathing.” Give them money

see their money grow, but piggy banks

for chores they complete around the

like PointBank even offer a free piggy bank

up their bedroom. More importantly, set

kids fill up their piggy bank on their own

chore is worth a dollar while another is

the bank. The important piece here is to

BREAK OUT THE OLD-SCHOOL

watching. They see what your spending habits are – good, bad, and indifferent

– and they are listening when you argue about financial troubles with your

significant other. Don’t just talk to your

kids about money, take it a step further by living what you preach every single day.

And if you mess up, don’t be shy about

work just fine, too, and many local banks

house, like folding towels or cleaning

if you open a kids’ savings account. Your

a value for each chore – perhaps one

EDUCATE THEM ON

time, and they look forward to taking it to

worth 50 cents.

As your children take hold of a debit

make a big deal out of it and reward them for how much they save.

PAY YOURSELF FIRST

Kids are so used to playing their Nintendo

pros and cons of credit and how to make

Switch or Playstation nowadays, but us

the adage of paying yourself first. Your

chance to physically hold “play money”

old enough to have a job and pay their

It’s a great teaching tool and something

to take a percentage out and immediately

another fantastic teaching tool.

first item on this list, it’s important to stress

Games like Monopoly give your kids a

kids will understand this more as they get

as they work through different scenarios.

own bills. With each paycheck, teach them

you can do together. The game Life is also SET A GOOD EXAMPLE

used to pay her 50 cents for a chore only

Even adults make poor choices with

savings account.

remember that if you have kids, they are

to take 25 of it away and sock it in her

card for the first time, it’s easy for them to think money just magically appears

adults grew up playing board games.

here at Murray Media told us how her dad

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS

BOARD GAMES

To piggyback (no pun intended) off the

put it in their savings account. A coworker

explaining the consequences to them.

money; it happens all the time. Just

on it every time they use it. Explain the

responsible decisions, particularly with their bank accounts.

BE PATIENT

This is perhaps the most important tip of them all. Your children will undoubtedly be exposed to different scenarios, wins,

and even losses as they continue to learn

about money and saving. It is important as the parent to be patient and to keep the communication lines open so your child

feels like they can talk freely with you. This is huge when it comes to money.

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

COMMUNITY On Saturday, January 26th, the 10th annual North Texas Soup-N-Bowl will take place at Cascades at The Colony from 11:00am-2:00pm. The event’s purpose is to raise awareness and funds for the North Texas Community Food Pantry, which is a nonprofit and affiliate agency of the North Texas Food Bank. Join them for savory soups, mac & cheese for kids, delicious desserts, silent auction and raffle, plus lots of fun while helping to fight hunger in The Colony and surrounding areas. Visit www.thecolonytx.gov for ticket information.

THE COLONY DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE On Saturday, February 23rd, The Colony Parks & Recreation department will be hosting their 14th annual Daddy Daughter Dance at the Cascades Event Center. There will be three dance times to choose from, 3:00, 5:00, or 7:00 p.m. The attire will be semi-casual and light refreshments will be provided. Tickets will be $35 per couple and $10 for each additional daughter, plus you can purchase a corsage and boutonniere for $12. Visit www.thecolonytx.gov for more information.

photo courtesy of Cane Russo Rescue facebook

CANE RUSSO RESCUE AT THE SHACKS

LOW COST PET VACCINATIONS

Join Cane Rosso Rescue at The Shacks at Austin Ranch and

The Shacks at Austin Ranch and Texas Coalition for Animal

meet their adoptable pups on the 4th Saturday of each month

Protection will be holding low cost vaccine clinics in February,

beginning on January 26th. You can find out more about Cane Rosso Rescue by visiting www.canerossorescue.org. You can

May, September, and December. Check The Shacks at Austin

check out their adoptable pups anytime at

Ranch’s Facebook page for dates, times, and prices. They will see

www.canerossorescue.org/dogs.

both dogs and cats at the clinic.

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

photo courtesy of North Texas Community Food Pantry facebook

NORTH TEXAS SOUP-N-BOWL 2019

INSIDE EDUCATION SORORITY FORUM IN AUDITORIUM Do you or your daughter have questions about joining a sorority after high school? Attend the Sorority Forum on Sunday, February 10th, at 2:00 pm in Prince of Peace School Auditorium. The event is sponsored by the Northwest Dallas Suburban & Plano/Richardson Alumnae Panhellenic. Scholarships are available at praptx.com and nwdsap.com

2019 MLK WINNERS

Girls & Boys Basketball Jan. 25th vs Denton Ryan Away Game

Photography Contest winners. The winning LISD students will be recognized at the 26th annual MLK Celebration on Monday, January 21st, at 6:30 pm at Marcus High School’s Auditorium.

Girls & Boys Track Denton Ryan Relays Feb. 7th at 3pm Denton Ryan High

The theme for the event is “Loving Diversity in Our World”. The winning entries will be displayed in the foyer of the auditorium beginning at 5:30 pm. Visit www.lisd.net to view the winners list.

LISD ACADEMIC CALENDAR

HEBRON HIGH SIGNING DAY

Lewisville ISD’s Board of Trustees approved

Congratulations are in order for seniors

the 2019-2020 Academic Calendar at the

from both The Colony High School and

some of the calendar highlights. First day of school: August 13th, STAAR & AP Testing: May 11-15th, Finals: May 18-21st. These dates are subject to change in the event of

athletes committed or signed their letters of intent to play collegiate sports during early

a bad weather day. Visit lisd.net/cal for this

www.lisd.net. We wish them all the best of

year’s and next year’s academic calendars.

luck with their sport of choice.

HEBRON

EVENTS Fire Drill Jan. 23rd at 9:30 am

Hebron High School. Multiple student-

signing period. See the complete lists at

EVENTS Martin Luther King Day Jan. 21st

LISD announces the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay, Art, and

December 10th board meeting. Here are

THE COLONY

Softball Scrimmage JV/V vs Guyer Jan. 28th at 5 pm 9th Annual College Fair Jan. 28th at 7pm

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Financial Article

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lla, ting star s, Gise e v o ca th. d ab s Lu i h ture e left i lia Sm n Smit c i P a e h h l t t G a from and N esy of t n Gle o cour t o h P

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12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

L A

I C

C A B

N AS

l me

a eG v e t

N I RVI

FSE

TO

N KI

S by

E C

A

s Glen Smith sits in his office on a rainy Thursday afternoon, he hesitates for just a few seconds and rubs one hand across his face. He wants to share a funny personal story, but he’s worried about how quickly it could backfire.

“All the stories that I think of don’t paint me in the best light,” he says with a laugh.

469.212.8072 | www.glendsmithandassociates.com 1029 Long Prairie Road, Suite C | Flower Mound, TX 75022

Yet he takes a deep

breath and continues

anyway. As the story goes, it’s

2003 and Glen is close to graduating

from Sonoma State University in California.

He interviews for a management position at Wells Fargo Bank and comes away

feeling pretty good about it. He’s even

satisfied with what he thought was a safe yet rock-solid answer to the question,

“What is unique about you?” when he said confidently, “I’m a hard worker.”

Surprisingly, he never got a callback.

“I eventually got a job at Lehman

Brothers, but a year later, my wife, Gisella, interviewed for the same role in the same building at Wells Fargo and not only got

the job but was offered more money,” he

said. “I asked what her answer was to that

question, and she says, ‘I just told them I’m flexible.’ I was like, ‘What? I totally should have said that instead!’”

He added, “I told our kids that story, and they think it’s the funniest thing.”

Glen, now the managing partner for Glen D. Smith & Associates and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®)

professional for Raymond James in Flower Mound, admits he’s always been playing a game of catchup with his beautiful bride, who has an MBA, was the Valedictorian

of her class at every level, and is a former Miss Guayaquil.

The lovebirds grew up in Ecuador and met when they were eight years old. They dated off and on starting at age 14, but even when their long-distance relationship got serious in college, Glen’s friends teased that they didn’t think she was real.

“My roommate told me when he finally met Gisella, ‘I seriously thought you made her up,’” Glen said. “I married up.”

“We have 250 clients, and while there

are some similarities here and there, not everyone is the same – especially when money is involved. It takes experience;

you can know numbers, but it’s that human touch that’s needed when someone says, ‘Hey, Glen, I’m concerned.’ That makes all the difference.”

He added, “When I’m getting to know

Not only did Glen prove that he got the girl, but he also showed how flexible he was after all.

my clients for the first time, I love asking

For more than 14 years, Glen has combined his passion for number crunching with helping people responsibly build wealth through longterm planning, methodical decisionmaking, and personalized service. He’s the go-to advocate for high net-worth clients who need guidance with everything from investment management and retirement planning to estate planning, trust services, and more. That commitment to the client and being able to adapt to any situation is a breath of fresh air in today’s environment, where it can be difficult to remember what personal service feels like.

has to do with managing their money, but

But Raymond James has long been a different kind of financial services firm.

And Glen has proven to be the perfect fit.

“You have to be super nimble, flexible, and customize everything because everyone is so different,” Glen said.

questions like, ‘What does money mean

to you?’ and “What was money like for you growing up?’ They may wonder what this

in my mind, it helps me understand where they’re coming from. Some people are super conservative; others are not.”

Outside of the office, Glen and

Gisella are just like anyone else –

which is another reason why his clients

gravitate toward him. The Smiths live in

Flower Mound and are trying their best

to raise two beautiful children, Nathalia,

12, and Lucas, 10. Born in California, Glen grew up in Guayaquil, Ecuador, where

his parents are still career missionaries.

He remains active in the Guayaquil

community supporting an organization that feeds malnourished children.

And yes, he enjoys being flexible – both in his personal life and for his clients.

Learn more about how Glen can help you at www.glendsmithandassociates.com

Steve Gamel and Life in Castle Hills are not affiliated with Raymond James. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Steve Gamel is not a client of Glen D. Smith & Associates or Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Glen D. Smith & Associates is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Ask The Expert: Reading

•

Parent-Teacher

PARTNERSHIPS

Parents and the Reading Ranch

Literacy Specialists can tackle the “tough stuff” together.

•

The Reading Ranch relationship

enhances the student’s and parent’s understanding of literacy and writing concepts.

•

IT’S ALL IN THE EDUCATION

The Reading Ranch values

and promotes trust between you (the parent), your child, and our Specialists.

•

Our Specialists share you

concerns and are dedicated to your child’s progress.

•

The Reading Ranch understands and

share’s our perspective as Parents, on your child’s leaning and growth.

•

Our Literacy Specialists can provide you a better understanding of what

your child is doing in the classroom.

•

Our team continually provides you

with feedback from you child’s session

as well as advice for working with your child at home.

W

e’ve made no secret of the fact that much of the magic we create here at The Reading Ranch® is a direct result of the partnerships we have with parents.

You are just as welcome in our halls and classrooms as your child is, and it is that open-door policy and feedback that helps bridge the gap between what’s happening at school and at home while creating strategies that drive results.

•

Bottom line: when parents and teachers

The Reading Ranch Tutorial Center offers a phonetically-based program in reading, writing, and spelling enrichment for children in Pre-K through fourth grade. The multi-sensory teaching approach meets individual needs, giving students a strong foundation in reading, writing, and spelling while “filling the gaps” for children who need literacy support.

•

Ongoing parental literacy updates regarding our reading & writing instructions.

•

Literacy workshops where parents are encouraged to partner in the literacy process.

work together seamlessly, it’s the kiddos that win.

Below are just a few of the ways we keep you informed with everything we are doing to give our students (your children) a strong foundation in reading, writing, and spelling enrichment.

Parent Training and Education: •

Communication with parents through weekly updates.

•

Reading & Writing Blogs (new content available on our website every month).

14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

Bottom line, we’re not crazy enough to think we can provide the best learning experience possible for our students without you the parents being involved every step of the way. Our doors are always open, and we welcome your thoughts, ideas, and feedback.

Here are more benefits and reasons parents should team up with The Reading Ranch:

The Reading Ranch Specialists focus

on the needs of YOUR child and help them to succeed and learn to enjoy literacy. Reading is FUN!

Call The Reading Ranch Today!!

We have eight locations in Castle Hills, Allen, Plano, Frisco, Southlake, North Dallas, Denison, and Mckinney (Coppell & Argyle are coming soon!) For more information, visit www.readingranch.com to call one of our locations directly.

by Kim Southwell, Ph.D. Founder, Owner & Director Reading Ranch Tutorial Center www.readingranch.com

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

A Partner In Your

WEIGHT LOSS

FIGHT

by Steve Gamel

D

r. Hien Le knew she wanted to be a surgeon; that was the easy part. The tricky part was deciding on a specialty.

After all, millions of medical students all across the globe are flooded with a world of options when it comes to being a surgeon, whether it be critical care, trauma, oncology, vascular, or something entirely different, and they spend years learning the intricacies of each. At some point, they must decide which area to focus on and find their calling.

For Dr. Le, a native of Arkansas who has lived in Castle Hills since 2015, what she realized filled her cup the most was helping patients fighting morbid obesity reach their weight loss goals through minimally invasive bariatric surgery.

“Specializing meant I could offer my patients the best possible care,” said Dr. Le, who with partner, Dr. Chad Carlton, runs LoneStar Bariatrics in Frisco. “You like the idea of being a general surgeon, but it’s special seeing how you can change someone’s life when you specialize. When they lose 100 pounds, now they are living their lives.”

She added, “Having the chance to experience their progress is what drew me to bariatrics.”

972.232.7171 | www.lonestarbariatrics.com | 5757 Warren Pkwy, Ste. 204 | Frisco, TX 75034 16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

LoneStar Bariatrics has been opened since November, but Dr. Le and Dr.

Carlton are far from new kids on the

block and have created a practice built on educating and motivating people –

whether the people who come to them

are considering surgery for the first time

Dr. Le said. “Something like bariatrics can help turn a person’s life around.”

Most surgeries these days can be

performed using minimally invasive techniques, but there are also

for qualifying patients such as the

Between them, Dr. Le and Dr. Carlton

swallowable intragastric balloon

experience and 10,000 surgical

system for temporary use.

LoneStar Bariatrics is unique in that

practice they’ve created, has quickly

who don’t want surgery. They also take

who have struggled with diet and

insurance companies to verify and

experience, coupled with the unique

they have a dietitian on staff for those

become a key differentiator for people

the lead on working with their patients’

exercise and may even suffer from

coordinate your case.

sleep apnea because of their

We could sing Dr. Le and

Dr. Carlton’s praises until

ballooning weight and health issues.

They need a guiding

hand – a partner – in their weight loss fight.

“Both of us have always

PROCEDURES

Obalon Balloon System, which is a

procedures under their belt. That

diabetes, high blood pressure, or

BARIATRIC

non-surgical weight loss solutions

or need revision surgery.

have more than a decade of combined

Different Types of

“Having the chance to experience their progress is what drew me to bariatrics.”

been on the same page

in that we want to take care

of our patients like they are family

as opposed to another number walking photography by Kim Ortiz Photography

through the door,” said Dr. Le, who

completed her general surgery residency at the University of Tennessee and stayed there for her fellowship in bariatrics and robotics. “He always likes to throw this saying around that neither of us has a desire to drive around in a Maserati.

At the end of the day, we’re doctors.

We want to help.”

we’re blue in the face,

but there’s something

to be said for hearing it from those who

have experienced this

impeccable care – and

had their lives changed for

weighed 341 pounds. After surgery, she now hovers around 200 pounds.

“Obviously, when you look good, and you feel you good, that’s really priceless,” the patient said in a testimonial on the practice’s website.

“But what’s even more priceless is I didn’t realize how much living I was missing out on being obese.”

Another patient lost 55 pounds

So what is bariatrics, anyway? Most people much more in that it includes a variety

pills for high blood pressure – just

of food the stomach can hold. The most

for the first time in 20 years.

know it as weight loss surgery, but it’s so

off all his medication – including nine

of procedures that restrict the amount

weeks later. He also ran on a treadmill

common bariatric procedures include

“Many of the new patients we have are from referrals. Our patients are happy with the way things went, and they tell others,” Dr. Le said. “That makes us feel great to hear those stories. We just want to be here to encourage people to make a change when they are ready.”

duodenal switch, and revisions.

“Most medicines can treat high blood pressure or sleep apnea. Surgery and weight loss can cure all those things,”

The gastric sleeve surgery removes about 85% of the stomach so that it takes the shape of a tube or sleeve.

the better. That includes one

patient who on December 2016

after surgery and was slowly coming

sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass/

SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY

GASTRIC BAND A gastric band is a silicone ring placed around the upper stomach and filled with saline. This creates a smaller food storage area that controls the stomach outlet.

OBALON BALLOON SYSTEM This is an inflatable balloon inserted into the stomach by swallowing a dissovable capsule. It is then inflated with gas, limiting the amount of food that can be ingested.

GASTRIC BYPASS A gastric bypass is when the digestive system is made shorter by bypassing a segment of the bowel, cutting down the absorption of food.

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

Business Spotlight

said. “They think it’s only for massages, but we are so much more than just

The Perfect Place To Unwind AT A PRICE THAT WILL MAKE YOU

SMILE

by Steve Gamel

are incredibly excited.”

With hundreds of locations all across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Massage Envy has become the go-to place for residents near and far who crave the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, get a relaxing massage or facial from friendly professionals who know their craft, and leave feeling their absolute best.

When we last caught up with Prasad in November, he was moving his location

A

s we settle into another fabulous new year, perhaps some of you are still looking for ways to unwind after a long 2018. You wouldn’t mind fixing that problem by spending a day getting a relaxing massage or facial, but you’re not sure where to go to find the best experience without losing sleep over what it will cost.

Stop your searching and look no further will cost just as much. In reality, massages than Massage Envy in Carrollton. Not and facials are only $45 each for a oneonly can you get a quality massage from hour appointment. professionals who genuinely What’s more is that if care, but it’s now a oneyou sign up at the stop shop for total Carrollton location body care – and in January, you Join Today & Get A prices that can’t will receive a be beaten. free hour of “Once our service with members membership. realize They are how little it also taking costs, they Valentine’s Day Sign up for a new 12-month membership are excited appointments between Jan. 1 - Feb. 10 and receive a and want for their new voucher for a free 60-minute Massage, to do more,” couples room, Facial or Total Body Stretch session. franchise owner where members Prasad Potluri said. can choose between a

FREE 60-MINUTE SESSION*

Prasad said it only costs customers $65 to become a member, but one thing he’s noticed is that new members think additional services

massages now. Once they realize, they

facial and a massage or a massage and a massage.

directly across the street to a larger facility at 1012 W. Hebron Pkwy. The new facility paved the way for a completely different experience and upgraded list of available services, including facials using medicalgrade products Obagi and Jan Marini.

Massage Envy had previously offered facials as part of its services, but in the search for clear skin, many customers instead sought help from their dermatologist with the goal of minimizing the appearance of aging skin, sun damage, acne, dryness, fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, etc. Now, these services can be handled at Massage Envy.

The new space gives Prasad and his staff of 23 massage therapists and estheticians 15 treatment rooms instead of 11 and 4,100 square feet to work with – nearly double the previous facility.

All you have to do to experience Massage Envy for yourself is schedule an appointment.

“Half our members don’t even realize they can also do the facials for $45,” Prasad

*Offer ends February 10, 2019. Promotional voucher redeemable at participating Massage envy locations nationwide by February 10, 2020. A 12-month Wellness Agreement must be entered into in order to be eligible for the 60-minute session voucher. Not valid online or for existing members. Check with franchised location concerning details of its Wellness Agreement. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Session times include a total of 10 minutes of time for consultation and dressing, which occurs pre-and post-service.

Additional taxes and fees may apply. Prices subject to change. Rates and services may vary by location and session. Not all Massage Envy franchised locations offer every service or enhancement. For a specific list of services, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Each location is independently owned and operated. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLIED TO PROMOTIONAL VOUCHER. ©2019 Massage Envy Franchising. LLC. ME 4922

972.939.6868 | www.MassageEnvy.com | 1012 W. Hebron Pkwy., #300 | Carrollton, TX 75010 18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

ALL-DISTRICT District 6-6A Co-MVP:

Jonathan McGill, Coppell Trejan Bridges, Hebron Offensive MVP:

Blake Short, Flower Mound Defensive MVP:

Kadren Johnson, Lewisville Special Teams Player of the Year: Caden Davis, Coppell

Co-Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Isaiah Broadway, Hebron

Armani Winfield, Lewisville Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Walker Polk, Coppell

Coaching Staff of the Year: Flower Mound First Team:

Brian Dashner, Coppell; Trevor Stange, Coppell; Cade Cowen, Flower Mound; Jack Lookabaugh, Coppell; Wyatt

Klawitter, Coppell; Jake Springfield,

Flower Mound; Sam Spence, Flower

Mound; Jeremy Jones, Lewisville; Garrison Wheatley, Coppell; Cale Pennington,

Flower Mound; Pierce Hudgens, Flower Mound; Jaylon Lott, Hebron; Treyvon

20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

Jackson, Irving; Gabriel Sanders, Irving MacArthur; Jase Holbert, Flower Mound; Jake Welch, Flower Mound; Reid Touchstone, Flower Mound; Daylen Clark, Lewisville; Marcel Brooks, Marcus; Jalen Jernigan, Irving Nimitz; Carson Harris, Hebron; AJ Newsome, Lewisville; Dylan Adams, Lewisville; Bert Auburn, Flower Mound; Collin Alves, Flower Mound; Khristian Jersey, Lewisville; Bryan Parker, Lewisville; JR Barker, Coppell; Chance Hill, Flower Mound; Noah Gipson, Irving MacArthur; Joseph Sheddy, Coppell; Carter Norrie, Hebron; Jacobie Lewis, Lewisville; Xavier Brown, Coppell; Cole Davenport, Flower Mound; Ibrahim Oyebanji, Lewisville; Jaylin Oliver, Irving Nimitz; Riley Strey, Flower Mound; Darius Snow, Hebron, Kevin Anderson, Lewisville; Justin Murray, Coppell; Corben Claterbaugh, Flower Mound; Diego Johnson, Hebron; Daylen Clark, Lewisville; Josh Plaster, Flower Mound.

Osborne, Marcus; David Armijo, Irving

Second Team: Gio Pansera, Flower Mound; Chris Navarez, Irving; Spencer Nielson, Lewisville; Ariel Escobar, Irving Nimitz; Blake Barber, Hebron; Joel Suarez, Hebron; Nick Nielson, Lewisville; Justin

Gerale Flye, Irving MacArthur; Sean

Nimitz; Myles James, Hebron; Kwentin Huddleston, Lewisville; Ben McAfee,

Lewisville; Josh Lockhart, Lewisville; Justin Dinka, Marcus; Collin Sutherland, Marcus; Mitchell Reinacher, Flower Mound; Reece Carter, Flower Mound; Deshawn Kincaid,

Lewisville; Jacob Reyes, Irving MacArthur; Jose Feliciano, Irving MacArthur;

Demetrius Chairs, Irving MacArthur; Dylan Frettoloso, Irving MacArthur, Adan Ponce, Irving Nimitz; Rafael Rivera, Hebron;

Pedro Yeverino, Irving MacArthur; Angel

Lopez, Coppell, Travis McFarling, Flower Mound; Earl Barnes, Lewisville; Blake Burris, Irving MacArthur; John Brand, Marcus; Jett Casillas, Flower Mound;

Stone Eby, Flower Mound; Cole Phillips, Hebron; Amazea Nweamo, Lewisville;

Tyler Wood, Flower Mound; Sebastian

Ibarra, Irving; Luke Halter, Lewisville; Ethan Barr, Marcus; Will White, Hebron; Tyler

Gainey, Marcus; Antonio Wiley, Lewisville; Watson, Marcus; Josh Williams, Coppell;

Elijah Venzen, Lewisville; Ibrahim Hassan, Irving MacArthur; Demarqus Sanders, Irving MacArthur; Mach Evans, Irving Nimitz; Grant Paulette, Hebron.

FOOTBALL 2018 District 5 - 5A (Division II) MVP: Myles Price, The Colony

First team:

Offensive Player of the Year:

Weston Symes, Frisco Centennial; Mikey

Star; Deavonte Massey, Frisco Wakeland;

Harrington, The Colony; Julian Larry,

Dom Puentes, The Colony; Adam White,

Defensive Player of the Year:

Frisco Lone Star; Logan Brungardt, Frisco

Connor Jackson, Prosper

Independence; Jadan Abdallah, The

Frisco Wakeland, Ashton Larza, Frisco

Co-Two-way Player of the Year:

Colony; Cade Starnes, Frisco Wakeland;

Marvin Mims, Frisco Lone Star

Brandon Crossley, Little Elm

JD Stephens, Frisco Centennial; Jake

Josh Burtch, Frisco Liberty

Marshall, Frisco Wakeland; Ryan Mora,

Special Teams Player of the Year: Harper Simmons, Frisco Lone Star Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Braylon Braxton, Frisco Independence Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Noah Bolton, Frisco Lone Star Offensive Lineman of the Year: Ben Perry, Frisco Independence

The Colony; Mason Lewis, Frisco

Independence; Zion Starling, The Colony; Zivaiishe Smith, Frisco Lone Star; Jalen Freeman, Frisco Independence; Aaron Davis, The Colony; Darius Cannon, Frisco

Independence; Chance Delashaw, Frisco

Lone Star; Calvin Backer, The Colony;

Wakeland; Kyle Taylor, The Colony; Keith

Torren Pittman, Frisco Lone Star; Jackson

Miller, The Colony; Kevin Rachel, Frisco

Marshall, Frisco Centennial; Cameron Pair,

Wakeland; Ife Opere, Frisco Lone Star;

The Colony; Trey Taylor, Frisco Lone Star;

Jake Harrelson, Frisco Centennial; Will

Garrett Field, Frisco Wakeland, Gerson

Harris, Little Elm; Brandon Trzeciak, The Colony; Oscar Guerrero, The Colony; Grant Carmichael, Frisco Lone Star; Ryan

Co-Defensive Lineman of the Year:

Bence, Frisco Independence; Elias De

Marcus Moore, The Colony

Leon, Little Elm; Matt Wilson, The Colony;

Espinoza, Little Elm; Christian Gonzalez, The Colony; Donavan Callis, The Colony; Elias Hernandez, Frisco Lone Star; Ridge Texada, Frisco Centennial; Tanner Cragun,

Alex Lara, Frisco Wakeland; Austin Hurley,

Frisco Wakeland; Anthony Goodman,

Coaching Staff of the Year:

Frisco Wakeland; Jack Karhu, Frisco

Little Elm; Dylan De Leon, Frisco Lone

The Colony

Independence; Isaiah Foster, Frisco Lone

Star; Trey Schlink, Frisco Wakeland.

Dylan Harris, Frisco Lone Star

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

STUDENT-RUN COFFEE SHOP

by Steve Gamel

H

ey, coffee lovers! In case you haven’t heard, there’s a new shop in town that’s a must-see.

The amazing students at iSchool High Lewisville Entrepreneurial

Academy have brewed up something special with their own student-run coffee shop called Deja Brew.

The coffee shop opened in December and has an option for literally everyone who loves coffee,

22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

whether you love smoothies, iced coffee, lates, cold brews, frappuccinos, and more.

The best part is the students run the show, get paid, and split any tips they receive.

They also get internship credit. The

bottom line is that while everyone has their favorite coffee shop, it’s great to take a break from the normal places you frequent before work or during lunch to support the kids in our community.

Deja Brew is located on campus at iSchool High. Be sure to check it out.

Valentine’s Day RECIPE EASY

BY

Italian Roast Beef Crescent Ring

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 8 servings

photos courtesy of The Fit Fork

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 2 cans (8-oz each) Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Roll Dough

Preheat oven to 375 F degrees.

Lightly spray large baking sheet with cooking spray.

• 1 lb. Roast Beef Deli Lunch Meat (Thinly Sliced) • 2 cups Fresh Baby Spinach • 6 oz. Provolone Cheese Sliced and Halved into “Semi Circles” • 2 oz. Un-dried Tomatoes (Cut in Thin Strips) • 2 tbsp. Italian Blend Herbs • 1 cup Ranch Dressing (For Serving)

Unroll both cans of crescent dough and separate into 16 triangles along perforations.

Arrange triangles (with narrow ends of triangle pointed outward) on cookie sheet to form a heart shape with approximate 6-inch opening in center.

Fat ends of triangles will overlap a bit.

Fold up roast beef slices and pile up along the heart-shaped inner perimeter of crescent dough.

Top beef with spinach, halved slices of cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.

Pull each pointed end of dough up and over filling, tucking in underneath to secure. Some of the filling will be showing through, that’s okay.

Sprinkle top of dough with Italian herbs and garlic salt.

Bake at 375 F degrees for 20 to 22 minutes or until lightly golden brown and cheese melting. Let cool for 5 minutes before cutting into slices.

Find More Recipes at: TheFitFork.com JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

Ask The Expert: School Days

THE MOST

IMPORTANT INVESTMENT OF YOUR LIFE:

YOUR

CHILD

R

by Valorie McGilvra, Certified Teacher and Life Coach

emember the birth of your child? Your emotions were all over the place.

Excited, happy, nervous? As you were holding your baby, did you wonder what kind of parent you were going to be? Were you wishing for a manual?

The only reference material we had was from our own upbringing, good or bad.

If you grew up in the 70s and 80s generation, you may remember hearing wise advice about money, character, making the right choices, and how to respect others.

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

•

Lessons on finance: “Money doesn’t grow on trees you know....”

•

Or about learning good habits: ”Close the door! - were you raised in a barn?”

•

Or when your parents told you not to do something and you asked why?

“Because I said so.”

However, that was another time. Since

then, the Internet and cellular technology have sent parents of today a few curve

balls. It is quite challenging to keep up with it all. Gaming, Social Networking, YouTube… and there still isn’t a Child

Rearing Manual. But fortunately, there are

lots of websites, blogs, and other experts, such as teachers who can provide us with guidance.

As an educational coach and teacher for 16 years, I’ve had many conversations

with parents and fellow teachers about how our kids are changing. There are many areas in which we can help our

children but the most important is T.I.M.E. (Technology, Interest, Model, Equip) Technology

We see so many students getting Smart

Phones at a younger age every year. My

son’s buddy was given a phone for his 8th birthday. I asked if there were restrictions

on his phone. He said no my mom doesn’t know how to do that. I know from my

own pains of trying to find ways to put

restrictions on my older son’s phone that it is impossible to completely protect

your child when they have access to the

internet. With just a touch of a button, they

can see, hear and read anything. It is worth your time to add restrictions.

Use it wisely, set parameters, monitor activity. Have a family plan for all

electronics. When, where, and how

are questions that need to be clearly

established with your child. There is an

excellent website called, “Healthy Child” which has an awesome fill in the blank form (with suggestions) that you can

complete with your child in just a matter of moments.

Children want and need to know your

expectations. They may gripe or complain initially, but in the long run, they WILL

thank you. You and your child will benefit from creating a Technology Plan in three important ways:

1. It provides the foundation for building a strong relationship with your child.

2. You will learn what they believe is a “fair” consequence, acceptable

solution or approach. (which means buy-in).

3. There is nothing to argue about

because expectations have been agreed upon.

she would rather be in her room at a desk where it is quiet.

Model

Like the song by Rodney Akin, “I’ve been

watching you, dad,” our kids see the good and the bad and all the in-between. Step back for a day and look at your life in the

To ensure your wishes are followed, set-

eyes of your child. What are the behaviors

internet router, or using an App such

your child do?

up the rules/restrictions through your

as Net Nanny. If your child has a game

platform like Xbox you can use a Microsoft account, it will send you a report of your child’s activity daily or weekly. If they

break a rule follow-through with your

predetermined consequences. And why is this all advisable? Well according to

Professor Jim Taylor, Ph.D., in his article in Psychology Today, entitled, “How

Technology is Changing the Way Children Think and Focus,”:

that you do that you would not want to see Commenting with offensive language and/ or actions to another driver. (Remember,

they can’t see or hear you, but your child can.) Try, “see, that driver was not being

courteous on how they cut in front of me.

When you drive you to need to...”

Don’t talk about someone in a negative way. Show them how to change their attitude about a situation, because

EVERYTHING is a situation and it is how

The bottom line is that too much screen

you think and feel about it that makes it

as reading, playing games, and good old

later article).

time and not enough other activities, such unstructured and imaginative play, will

result in your children having their brains

wired in ways that may make them less, not more, prepared to thrive in this crazy new world of technology.

Interest

Take interest in your child’s life. Watch or

play the games they play or watch movies or view what they watch on YouTube. Be on all of their Social Media Accounts. If

they use Apple products you can easily

do this through the “Cloud.” Know their friends and support their hobbies or

favorite things to do. Make it a game in

the car to “Guess My Favorite…” each of you take turns, give three choices and one is correct.

positive or negative. (More on this in a Equip

Equip your child with the tools to be

successful in life. Teaching your child

responsibility and respect will go a long

way. In education, it is called, “Scaffolding.”

Just like a carpenter uses scaffolds to

reach high places, you provide support

and training so your child will learn how to

reach their greatest challenge. Teach them step by step and slowly remove scaffolds as they meet each new goal. If they fail, that’s ok it just meant that they weren’t

quite ready or needed a different path.

Teach your child to say Thank You when speaking to others. This one action can go a long way epecially when using a

I remember one year I gave my students

cell phone, opening a door, waiting their

was, “How do you like to study and do

common courtesy and manners aren’t

parent shared with me that they always

hope. Our children are like a piece of clay

what their child preferred. But after

wonderful, productive adult. All they need

a survey and one of the questions

turn to speak. It seems strange to say but

homework?” At a parent conference, the

the norms anymore. But there is still

thought sitting at the kitchen table was

that is just waiting to be sculpted into a

reading the survey, the parent saw that

is your TIME.

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Ask The Expert: Organizing

Getting Your Home

Office

ORGANIZED

W

hether you use your home office to run a small business, pay personal bills, or do craft projects, it’s a good idea to keep it organized. An organized home office space inspires productivity and efficiency. Here are a few things you can do to create a more organized home office.

Purge: The first step to getting your office

you can quickly and easily find what you

don’t need. Take stock of your supplies.

identify document categories. It’s also

organized is to get rid of things you really Do you have hundreds of paperclips, so

are looking for. Color coding also helps important to keep business and personal

many pens that you can’t count them all,

files separate.

several boxes of unopened file folders,

Deal with the old documents: Make

and several broken staplers? This is pretty common in a dirty workplace. Let go of all the unnecessary office supplies. It’s true that the extra box of staples only takes up four inches of space, but let it go. You aren’t using them. A local school or church would benefit from your donation. Getting rid of the small stuff is a big step in the right direction.

Have a filing system: You can use file

folders or a binder system to keep your important documents organized. Label each file folder or tab with bold print so 26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

room in your filing cabinet, desk, or shelves by storing older, important

documents inside portable file boxes that can be put away in the attic or a storage closet. Another great option is to scan older documents and store them digitally.

If stored digitally, documents can be easily accessed, and they take up absolutely no space in your office.

Use a shredder: Always securely

and safely dispose of documents with sensitive information. Don’t leave these hanging around.

Make your office comfortable and inviting: If your office is a place you have to spend hours working then make it a place you enjoy being. Hang pictures of loved ones and art that inspires you.

Use furniture that is comfortable and represents your personality. Maybe even play your favorite music while you work.

Always clean up: At the end of each project put away all work supplies. At the end of each day clear off your desk. Put pencils back in pencil holders, throw scrap paper away, put files back in the filing cabinet, etc.

This is your area, so make it work for you. Increase your productivity by surrounding yourself with an inviting, clutter-free workspace that represents your personality. A productive day is a great day!

by Crystal Nerpel Cloud Nine Organizing Cloudnineorganizing.com

New Restaurants Open in Castle Hills Village Shops

by Steve Gamel

T

he Castle Hills Village Shops & Plaza just got a little busier with the grand opening of two new restaurants that

are sure to attract plenty of attention.

Ramen Izakaya Akira, a traditional Japanese ramen restaurant, and The Grind Burger Bar & Tap Room are open for business, as the news of their opening was announced in a press release by Margulies Communications in December.

Per the release, this is the second location for The Grind Burger Bar & Tap Room.

The Grind’s menu features fresh, madefrom-scratch burgers like the My Boy

Blue, with Neuske’s applewood smoked bacon, blue cheese, avocado, smoked

onion and baby spinach, as well as the Umami Tsunami, with charred tomato,

wild mushrooms, baconnaise and crispy parmesan cheese.

“We chose the Castle Hills location

because it’s an amazing community and needs a great burger bar,” The Grind

general manager, Matthew Hey, said in the press release. “We are looking forward to

getting to know the neighbors and seeing them at The Grind on a regular basis.”

Ramen Izakaya Akira is open for both lunch and dinner, and its menu items include Spicy Chicken Broth Ramen and Garlic Lovers Pork Ramen, as well as appetizers like Japanese-style dumplings and marinated octopus.

Be sure to check out these amazing additions to an already vibrant community. In addition to a variety of eateries and conveniences, the Village Shops has an outdoor plaza area with shaded seating, a permanent stage and water features for casual neighborhood

get-togethers as well as popular developer-sponsored community events, like the recent Holiday in the Plaza, which drew more than 2,500 guests.

The master-planned Castle Hills community located at 2520 King Arthur Blvd. in Lewisville.

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Foodie Friday DFW: Alkeys Lounge & Eatery

Alkeys Lounge & Eatery

W

e love a Foodie Friday spot that’s much more than what meets the eye. When you first walk into Alkeys Lounge & Eatery in Old Town Lewisville, it may seem like your typical gastropub, but take our word for it - there is so much more to this place than just a bar serving up normal bar food.

The owners have renovated this beloved spot in Old Town Lewisville to reflect the

art deco style of the surrounding area with a unique, Texas nod to the 1920’s.

it’s that good. The mac ‘n cheese has to be the creamiest mac ‘n cheese we’ve ever tasted and the brisket we had on top of ours was so tender and flavorful. This stuff

Those four families who came together

is a home run, grand slam, knock-it-out-of-

where friends could gather around the

And for all you out there with a sweet

to create Alkeys wanted to create a space bar, play some shuffleboard or darts, or

enjoy the scenery of Old Town Lewisville from their back patio.

Obviously, at the heart of Alkeys is the

bar. So they have some fantastic signature drinks for you to enjoy like their Giggle Water (hello, 1920’s) made with Old

Smokey Mango Habanero whiskey, lime juice, agave nectar, and soda water and their Alkeys Margarita.

And when it comes to their food, Alkeys

is offering up more than just your typical bar food items. While there are bar food staples like calamari, nachos, wings, and

sliders, the quality and presentation of the food is spectacular.

If you’re looking for something different,

the-park dish. tooth, Alkeys didn’t forget about you!

You can enjoy a slice of their chocolate or coconut pie at the end of your meal or grab one of their homemade carrot cakes to-go! The chocolate pie is full of rich, cocoa-y goodness. And we love that you can take the carrot cake home with you to enjoy after all the mac ‘n cheese settles.

We’ve had such a blast revisiting the revitalized Old Town Lewisville and are glad to see businesses like Alkeys Lounge & Eatery find their home there! Go check them out this weekend. Take your family

972.537.5522

for a round of shuffleboard or darts. But

www.AlkeysLounge.com

whatever you do and whenever you go,

165 West Main St. Lewisville, TX 75057

ORDER THAT MAC ‘N CHEESE.

you’ll love items like their Alkeys Cobb

Salad, their Chicken & Pasta Jambalaya, and the Chicken Fried Chicken. All of which are absolutely delicious.

But what you MUST try when you come

to Alkeys is their Loaded Mac ‘n Cheese

topped with either their brisket or pulled

pork. Honestly, this stuff should be illegal 28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

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

CHAMBER

CORNER “Havana Nights” A 56th Annual Awards Gala

re you interested in becoming a 56th annual Awards Gala Sponsorship or questions on

advertising opportunities?

Please contact Corey Koif –

corey@lewisvillechamber.org Award Nominations

Each year the Lewisville Area Chamber photo and info courtesy of The Lewisville Chamber

of Commerce recognizes its members

for the outstanding work that they do in their business and in the community.

Nominations are now open for the Citizen of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year for 2018.

Please review the award criteria and submit your nominations by 5pm on Friday, January 12.

Visit http://www.lewisvillechamber.org/ annual-awards-gala to view past Citizens of the Year and photos from the 2018 Annual Awards Gala To register for tickets, please go to www.lewisvillechamber.org/annualawards-gala

Friday, February 8th 7:00pm - 10:00pm Doors Open at 6pm

Lewisville Convention Center

at Hilton Garden Inn 785 TX-121 Lewisville, TX 75067

JANUARY 2019 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Pet Spotlight

MEET

ZSA ZSA

photography by Kim Ortiz Photography

A

fter the Griffith family had decided to let their child, Adrianna, have a dog. She quickly went searching online for the perfect pooch, but after spending countless hours searching she was getting restless. It wasn’t until she came across Operation Kindness’ website that she laid eyes on Zsa Zsa. Adrianna quickly showed her mom Katherine and after discussing it with her husband Rocky they decided to meet sweet Zsa Zsa in person.

“She is a typical Dallas Diva and enjoys loving, snuggling with and protecting her family. You’ll see her enjoying the Train Park most days and sometimes long walks to Lake Avalon,” said Katherine.

SHERIFF ’S

CORNER T

with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

he Denton County Sheriff’s Office hopes everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We want to start 2019 by introducing you all to our communications team. They are the men and women who work hard behind the scenes.

and relief supervisors also train the new dispatchers; training of new hires is between six and eight months.

Communications is covered 24/7/365 to maintain the safety of the citizens of Denton County as well as the Deputies, Police Officers, EMT, and Fire Fighters.

The Communications section is managed by one communications manager, one assistant manager, one training coordinator, one criminal justice information coordinator, and 26 dispatchers. Our shift supervisors

During the day and evening shifts, there are six dispatchers plus one supervisor, during the night shift there are four dispatchers plus one supervisor working at once answering all types of calls. When calling 911, the first question asked is,

30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | JANUARY 2019

It didn’t take long for Katherine and Rocky to fall in love and adopt her, and in 2012 at the beginning of Spring Break they surprised Adrianna with Zsa Zsa. Since then Zsa Zsa has brought unbelievable joy to their entire family!

“What is the address of your emergency?”

The communications officers need to make sure of the address to send the first responders to the correct location. So make sure of your address or location!

Our communications officers answer 911, Police, and Fire calls then dispatch the appropriate first responders to the location. Our communications officers are trained to help callers before first responders arrive.

We answer an average of 900 telephone calls per day, 1,000 calls for service per day, which includes officer-initiated calls. Are you looking for a career in law enforcement as a communications officer? We will be trying to fill four vacancies in 2019.

We will be offering the Woman’s Empowerment Program on February 16 and March 23, 2019. It is a free selfdefense class for women. Registration is required at WEP@dentoncounty.com.