Life in Castle Hills Magazine March 2020

March 20, 2020 - April 17, 2020

Beauty, Health and Wellness

NOT hail season?

How To Choose A Med Spa For the Perfect Blow Dry

Metro Dent still has YOU

covered

Considering A Chemical Peel?

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

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March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

CastleHillsMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran

Writers & Editor Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo

Advertising Manager

Kelly Murray 972.890.1128 kelly@murray-media.com

Production

Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene

Photography

What’s That Guy’s Name?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUY T 469.500.5657 www.whatsthatguysname.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. © 2020 Murray Media Group

Content

is KING…

so help us tell your story

I

f your goal is to publish a monthly neighborhood magazine that will win the hearts of every reader from the flip of the very first page, you’re going to need a healthy supply of inspiring stories that capture everyone’s attention and imagination.

Sometimes, we know exactly where to go to find those stories, whether it be at nearby schools, non-profit organizations, chamber and networking events, social media, families like yours right in the heart of our community, or at the hundreds of local businesses we build relationships with every day. Other times, the story tips come from you, our readers, who aren’t afraid to let us know we missed the boat on something big.

As we inch closer to the end of a restful summer and the start of what should be another stellar school year, your friends here at Murray Media Group are committed to not only doing our part in giving you exactly what you want to read about but also providing more of it. Hopefully, you’ll see the proof is in the pudding as you read through the next few pages.

But we still need your help! As you read through this month’s issue, be mindful of anything we missed – and let us know.

•

Residents with interesting hobbies, new inventions, or cool backgrounds

•

The local kid who did something special

•

Non-profits you’d like to see highlighted more

•

New local businesses that deserve some love

•

Teachers who live each day to inspire your children

•

Pictures (Ahhhh … we love your family pictures)

In a world where content is king, our goal is always to be the place you can go to read about what matters in your community – OUR community. So help us tell your story.

In the meantime, enjoy the latest issue.

Sincerely, Kelly Murray

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

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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Beauty, Health

Table of

Contents

and Wellness ISSUE Look For the Icon

Ask the experts On T he Mike Cover i s No Metr sker of o De nt

15 Health Advice with Surgical Care of North Texas 23 Travel with Terri Guthrie articles 06 Considering A Chemical Peel?

08 Hebron & The Colony Set to Take on New District Slates

Featured article

16

Not Hail Season? Metro Dent Still Has You Covered

09 Computer Kiosks Help with 2020 Census Count 10 Inside Community and Education 12 Local Cake Artist Wins Television Contest 14 Green Crafts: Homemade Easter Decorations 19 Foodie Friday DFW with Jay Marks Real Estate 20 For the Perfect Blow Dry 25 Sheriff’s Corner with Sheriff Tracy Murphree

Editor’s Pick

28 Lewisville Resident Grows Produce to Help Those in Need www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

26 How To Choose A Med Spa 30 Grandscape Development

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

Beauty, Health and Wellness Article

Considering A

Chemical Peel?

Read This First!

by Contributing Writer

I

ntentionally harming already damaged skin might seem illogical, but that’s exactly what a chemical peel does. The intent is to inflict just enough harm to trigger the body’s regenerative healing process. As damaged epidermal cells slough off, healthier, smoother skin takes their place.

Which Skin Conditions Can a Chemical Peel Treat?

Chemical peels are most commonly used

PHENOL

exploit this process of epidermal turnover by causing intentional, localized damage

keratoses - scaly, precancerous spots

damage or aging. The chemically-treated

pigmentation, dark spots and actinic

to an area of skin affected by acne, sun

caused by sun exposure.

outer layers of skin are removed, and in

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and bears the brunt of exposure to the outside world. Friction,

ultraviolet radiation, wind, dry

air and pollution accelerate skin damage, while acne can leave unsightly scarring in its wake.

Skin sheds constantly - in

6 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

skin has renewed itself. Chemical peels

to treat sun damage, acne, uneven skin

How Does a Chemical Peel Work?

TRICHLOROACETIC ACID

month, your body’s entire outer layer of

fact, approximately 1,000,000

epidermal cells slough off every

day, and in a bit more than one

their place, healthy new skin cells appear.

Types of Chemical Peels The most commonly used substance is glycolic acid. Derived from sugarcane, it belongs to a class of acids called

“fruit acids.” Glycolic acid is a relatively mild substance, which targets the

superficial layers of the skin. Several

applications may be required to achieve the desired outcome, and this type of

peel may be insufficient for more severe dermatological problems.

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Unlike glycolic acid, phenol peels work their way deep into the skin, and are so strong that a treatment takes only thirty minutes. Phenol generally yields excellent results - but the recovery time is long, peaking at one to two weeks after treatment and taking up to three months before the skin no longer appears damaged.

Trichloroacetic acid peels occupy a middle ground - neither as mild as glycolic acid nor as powerful as phenol. Trichloroacetic acid may be more effective than glycolic acid at reducing the appearance of fine lines, and the recovery time tends to be shorter than that of a phenolic peel.

Possible Side Effects Chemical peels can be highly effective but are not without potential risks. Applying caustic acid to the skin leaves the treated area tender, red and sore. Some patients may experience infection or scarring.

Side effects are most pronounced after a phenol peel - at worst, the skin may ooze before scabbing over and progressing to a stage of healing which resembles sunburn. There is also the risk of permanent hypopigmentation a distinct lightening of the skin.

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No Pain, No Gain Do the benefits of chemical peels smoother, finer, younger looking skin, fewer fine lines and a reduction in sun damage, dark spots or acne scars outweigh the potential side effects?

Ultimately, that’s a question you have to answer for yourself.

Chemical peels are a unique way to undo the visible signs of aging and environmental exposure. They aren’t without risk, but they often succeed where other treatments do not.

To ensure that a glycolic acid, phenol or trichloroacetic acid peel is right for you, always get evaluated and treated by a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. They can tell you if your blemishes are serious or benign, if a chemical peel is a suitable procedure for your skin type and apply the peel at the correct strength and appropriate frequency.

GLYCOLIC ACID

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

Hebron & The Colony

set to take on new

district slates J

by Steve Gamel

ust like every high school football team in the state, Hebron and The Colony found out which districts they will be apart of for the next two years when the University Interscholastic League announced its biennial reclassification and realignment slate on February 3.

Hebron is now in a revamped District 6-6A

throughout the state. Therefore, based

Marcus, Plano, Plano East, and Plano

may move up while others will move

with Coppell, Lewisville, Flower Mound, West. Meanwhile, The Colony, which is

once again in Class 5A Division I, is in a massive nine-team district with Denton

Ryan, Denton, Frisco Centennial, Frisco Heritage, Frisco Independence, Frisco Lone Star, Frisco Reedy, and Frisco Wakeland.

The UIL, the state’s governing body for extracurricular

activities of Texas public

schools, unveils new districts every two years based on

enrollment figures for each

school. The goal is to maintain

on enrollment numbers, some schools down to keep schools of similar size paired together.

New schools that just opened are also thrown into the mix based on their enrollment figures.

The goal is to maintain a fair and competitive field of play throughout the state.

a fair and competitive field of play 8 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

Naturally, this forces many

coaches and administrators

to play the guessing game on

where their programs will end up, and it all comes to a head on realignment day.

For Hebron, there aren’t many changes from the previous

realignments. While the Hawks are no

longer in the same district with the likes of Irving and Irving MacArthur, they’ve been district bunkmates with Marcus,

Lewisville, Flower Mound, and Coppell

for many years. The addition of the Plano schools harkens back to previous district lineups, too.

Regardless of who the Hawks are playing, they know what it takes to succeed.

Hebron is a perennial playoff power and

lost just one district game last year before losing to Guyer in the first round of the playoffs. The trick will be shoring up a

few losses to graduation and making a deeper run.

Meanwhile, The Colony’s season depends greatly on how it can compete with a

district that is easily one of the toughest in the state. Of the nine teams, only

Denton, Heritage and Centennial missed the playoffs last season. Ryan was a state finalist, losing to Alvin Shadow Creek in

the state title game. Lone Star lost to Ryan in the state semifinals, and Independence was a region semifinalist.

The Cougars, Reedy, and Wakeland all lost in the first round.

For all sports except football, The Colony

district will be slightly different. District 105A features Denison, Lovejoy, McKinney North, Princeton, Prosper Rock Hill, Sherman, and Wylie East.

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The kiosks will be available in the following Denton County buildings during business hours: Carrollton – Sandy Jacobs Government Center 1029 W. Rosemeade Parkway

Computer kiosks help with 2020

Census count D

by Denton County Judge Andy Eads

enton County is providing computer kiosks in county buildings to help individuals complete their 2020 Census online.

Making sure everyone in Denton County is counted in the 2020 Census is important. Even 1 percent of individuals not counted could result in $10.2 million fewer federal dollars each year for educational, legislative, business and other funding. These federal funds help all of us attain better quality of life.

Residents who need access to a computer will be welcome to use the computer kiosks free of charge.

The idea is to help everyone fill out the 2020 Census to provide a current snapshot of Denton County as well as the rest of the country. That snapshot will serve as the basis for determining a number of things in the next decade – from determining how many seats in the House of Representatives each state gets to providing for public safety and emergency preparedness. Businesses use census data to decide where to build

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factories, offices, and stores.

Residents use census data to support community initiatives.

The data, by law, cannot be shared with immigration enforcement agencies, law enforcement agencies, or allowed to be used to determine eligibility for government benefits.

Denton County is planning an event on Census Day, which is Wednesday, April 1.

Be sure to stay tuned for details about this upcoming free event.

The U.S. Constitution requires a census every 10 years and has completed one every decade since 1790. The 2020 Census information should arrive in your mailbox beginning in mid-March.

From there, you will have three methods for completing the limited number of questions – online, by phone, or by mail.

With $675 billion at stake in federal funds, ensuring everyone is counted is important to each community, county and state.

Completing the 2020 Census allows you to be counted. And you do!

Cross Roads Steven E. Copeland Government Center 1400 FM 424 Denton Administration Complex Elections Technology Services Building 701 Kimberly Drive Denton Administration Complex Health Services Building 535 S. Loop 288 Denton

Mary and Jim Horn Government Center 1505 E. McKinney St. Flower Mound Southwest Courthouse 6200 Canyon Falls Drive Frisco Government Center 5533 FM 423 Lewisville Lee Walker Government Center 190 N. Valley Parkway Lewisville Precinct 3 Government Center 400 N. Valley Parkway

Connect

With Us pictured to the left is Andy Eads

If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. andy.eads@dentoncounty.com 940.349.2820.

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Inside Community DONATE TO BEEHIVE HOMES BeeHive Homes 477 W Main St. • Lewisville, TX 75057 As we move into spring-cleaning season don’t throw out those unwanted board games, books, CDs, magazines, puzzles, or DVDs. The sweet residents at BeeHive Homes would love to be considered for your donations. Drop off during open hours or call for more information, 214-974-8474. photo courtesy of Lewisville Animal Services

PAWS IN THE PARK Mon., Mar. 16 - Fri., Mar. 20 | 10am-1pm, 1-4pm | Design Time Castle Hills 995 E. Valley Ridge Blvd. • Lewisville, TX 75057 The 7th Annual Weenie/Wannabe race is upon us! Dachshunds and “mixed” small breeds, 20 pounds or less are welcome to register. Participation is free. To register your fur baby, visit www.facebook.com/LewisvilleAnimalServices and click on the EVENTS link.

Inside Education

LOVE & LOGIC CLASSES HEBRON BAND’S PALOOZA 2020 Sat., April 4 | 7am-8pm | Hebron High School 4207 Plano Pkwy • Carrollton, TX 75010 Help support the award-winning Hebron High School Marching Band at their Palooza 2020. Start the morning off with a 5K and Kid’s Run and a Firetruck Pull. The evening will include tacos and music by the band during their Street Eats and Beats. Register for the event at www.eventbrite.com/d/tx--dallas/hebron-band/.

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

March 24 & 31, April 7 6-8pm LISD Administration Center

1565 W Main St. • Lewisville, TX 75067 Lewisville ISD is hosting Love and Logic classes that will provide simple and easy to use technique to help parents have more fun and less stress while raising kids of all ages. These classes are free to attend.

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KING METAL’S INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Mon., April 27 | 10:30am-6pm | Stonebriar Country Club 5050 Country Club Dr. • Frisco, TX 75034 Participate in one of the best tournaments of the year benefitting Journey to Dream and Kyle’s Place. There will be a silent auction, Shotgun tournament, and dinner. Come support a great cause. For more information email Samantha Sims at Samantha@JourneyToDream.com.

LOCAL AUTHOR MEET & GREET Wed., April 15 |4pm | Flower Mound High School Library 3030 Broadmoor Ln. • Flower Mound, TX 75022 Sandra Rhoads is celebrating her debut novel with a meet and greet. Please join her for snacks, drinks, door prizes, and an author signing. Her novel, Mortal Sight is first of many book releases for this incredible author. In partnership with the Flower Mound High School Library, this event is free and open to the public.

SPAGHETTI DINNER KINDERGARTEN ROUND UP Wed. April 1- Fri. April 3 | 8:30am-11:30 & 1-2pm | Castle Hills Elementary 1025 Holy Grail Dr. • Lewisville, TX 75056 It’s already that time of the year for registering your little ones for school. Come in for a tour, meet the PTA, and bring all your paperwork to enroll your child for the 2020-2021 school year!

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Thurs., March 26 | 6-8pm Polser Elementary 1520 Polser Rd. • Carrollton, TX 7501 You won’t want to miss this PTA meeting.

Come hungry for a spaghetti dinner and enjoy choir performances with an art show to follow.

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Local Cake Artist wins television

contest

by Steve Gamel

I

t’s one thing to bake a cake. It’s an entirely different skill when you can turn it into a work of art. That’s what British cake artist and Castle Hills business owner Elizabeth Rowe does every day, and it’s landing her all sorts of attention.

Rowe and her cake store, The London Baker, were featured on The Food Network Challenge on January 20. The objective of the show was to compete against three other teams in a five-hour competition that required baking a cake inspired by the cult-classic, Back to the Future. Rowe won when she designed a replica of the iconic town hall scene where Marty McFly’s DeLorean zoomed past the clock tower at 88 miles per hour as it was struck by lightning to send him back to the present day.

“The town hall was about three feet tall and had a huge storm above the clock tower that was made of sugar,” Rowe said with a laugh. She won a check for $10,000, which she is using to put back into

upgrading her store in Castle Hills. “That’s what really wowed the judges. They had never seen anything like that before.”

She added, “I love doing that sort of stuff.

I love nerdy things, so something like Back to the Future was special for me.”

Rowe has only had her store for just under two years, but she’s already been featured on five cake shows, including the most recent one. She has plans to be on two more before the end of the year.

Beyond The Food Network, they’ve been featured on The Knot Wedding Network, Good Morning Texas, Halloween Wars, and Cake Central.

And with one look at her Facebook page, you can see why. This is a gourmet shop that focuses on wedding cakes, celebration cakes, and gourmet treats for any occasion. From their true European style, freshly baked croissants made with real French butter to oooey-gooey double chocolate chip brownies made with real melted chocolate, you will find it difficult

to leave the store without your sweet tooth being 100% satisfied. Elizabeth has always had an eye for creativity. She is known for fantastical, highly detailed cakes, with examples that include a threefoot-tall Tyrannosaurus Rex, a towering blue dragon cake, Rapunzel’s tower, an armadillo, and even a jukebox that looks like it could actually play music.

She has become the go-to cake artist for local residents and celebrities, whether it be Dirk Nowitzki, Zeke Elliott, or entire sports teams. If you haven’t checked out The London Baker yet, stop by or visit the londonbaker.com for more information.

And who knows, you may be seeing Elizabeth on a tv set near you real soon.

“The sky is the limit if you’re willing to work hard. It can be really stressful and nerve-wracking [to be on these shows], but it’s exciting all at the same time,” Rowe said. “I’m a little used to it by now. It’s exciting to experience all the notoriety, considering we are not that old.”

I love doing that sort of stuff.

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Green Crafts:

Homemade Easter Decorations

by Contributing Writer

E

aster is a fun holiday that is great for craft enthusiasts; it is also the perfect craft season for using green and recyclable items when being creative. This Easter try making homemade decorations, and this article will provide you with detailed instructions on creating homemade Easter decoration crafts from green items.

Easter Bunny Lid Garland You can make an adorable Easter bunny

garland using lids. For this green craft you

nose, whiskers, and cute little oval shaped eyes. You can add different styles of features to each face for a fun twist as well.

will need:

After the bunny faces have dried glue the

•

Several old lids (You can use lids

ears onto the backs of the lids and allow

they are round.)

simply glue the lids to the ribbon in even

Paintbrush

around your home for Easter, and you will

Scissors

Egg Carton Chicks

Hot glue gun

You can make cute homemade baby chick

• • • • • • •

of all sizes and materials as long as

them to dry. To complete this green craft

White, black, and pink paint

intervals. Hang this green decoration

Ribbon

be proud of your homemade craft.

Hot glue sticks White foam sheets

Start this decoration by painting all of the

lids white. While the lids are drying cut ear shapes out of the foam sheet; remember

decorations using an egg carton and a few other supplies. For this green craft you will

•

Scissors

Yellow feathers

To begin this homemade Easter craft cut

out individual sections of the egg carton.

This will leave you with round sections,

and you should paint these yellow. Use the leftover scraps of the egg carton to

cut out small dimond shapes, paint these tiny pieces orange and set aside to allow

them to dry. Once completely dry fold the diamond shapes in half. Use glue on the

back of the folded diamond and attach it to the egg carton.

Once everything is dry add black dots for eyes. Glue the feathers to the top, back,

also need:

and sides of the chick to finish the look.

•

added to other green decorations, set

to cut enough ears for all of your lids.

•

the lids have dried add a pink heart for a

•

Each lid will make one bunny face. When

•

•

Yellow and orange paint

Black permanent marker Paintbrush Glue

These homemade Easter chicks can be

on tabletops, mantels, and counters, or

they can be strung from ribbon to make a homemade garland for Easter.

Going green is a great challenge and inspiration for crafts, and these homemade Easter decorations will provide you with fun and beauty. Try these homemade Easter decorations this year, and try being a little more green.

14 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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Health Advice: Ask The Expert

struggling with weight?

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY FOR WEIGHT LOSS

T

by Dr. Lauren Buck

he decision to have bariatric surgery is a big step in your weight loss journey. It can make a significant and positive impact on your health and quality of life. One of the first questions people ask when considering weight loss surgery is do I qualify? While we evaluate patients on an individual basis, the general qualifications for bariatric surgery include:

BMI over 40

•

High blood pressure

BMI, or body mass index,

•

High cholesterol

is a measurement of body

•

Sleep apnea

•

Osteoarthritis

fat based on height and weight.

BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is a valuable tool to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. If you have a BMI over 40, you may qualify for bariatric surgery.

BMI higher than 35 with obesityrelated health problems

If your BMI is between 35 and 39.9 and you have one or more obesity-related health problems, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery. The list of health problems associated with obesity is long, but some of the most common include: •

Diabetes

•

Coronary heart disease

•

Gallbladder disease

Who qualifies for bariatric surgery under insurance?

Many insurance plans cover bariatric surgery. Our team is here to answer any questions you might have and will walk you through each step, including verifying if the physician you selected participates in your plan.

If conventional weight loss methods haven’t worked for you, call one of our specialists at Surgical Care of North Texas and learn how our proven, individualized plans can help you achieve long-term success.

214.222.8150 | SurgicalCareNTX.com | Lewisville • Flower Mound • Castle Hills

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March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

NOT hail season?

Metro Dent Still HAs You Covered.

by Steve Gamel | photos courtesy of Metro Dent

metrodent

hailfreecar

.com

Serving DFW for Over 25 Years!

214.735.8365 HailFreeCar.com

1620 E. State Hwy. 121, Ste. C100 Lewisville, TX 75057

W

hen hail season is running rampant in North Texas, paintless dent repair facilities are bursting at the seams helping customers get their banged-up vehicles in tip-top shape and back on the road. But when Mother Nature finally takes a few months off, many of those same facilities see business slow to a crawl. That has never been the case at Metro Dent in Lewisville because, well, they’ve never been an ordinary hail repair facility.

Mike Nosker and his team created a one-stop-shop that is just as much a full-service body shop as it is a reliable place to rid your car or truck of a few dozen hail dings.

Instead of traipsing all over town working with multiple facilities for oil changes, repairs, detailing, restorations, or even a state inspection, Denton County residents have found it is a massive timesaver to just drive over to Metro Dent — whether it’s hail season or not.

“We provide the highest and most consistent quality and service and also add valuable time back into people’s lives by being a one-stop-shop,” Mike said. “We still see 5 to 10 hail repairs a week, but we stay busy year-round because we’ve eliminated the need for a client to go to multiple

16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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places — sometimes on multiple days — to get their needs fulfilled.”

Metro Dent is locally owned and operated and has been serving DFW better than anyone else for more than 26 years.

Their comprehensive list of services

includes full-body dent repair, minor

collision jobs, paint correction, detailing

what Metro Dent does. And Mike says

Mike said. “Hail falls under comprehensive

Many of the clients they see during non-

customer’s premium by filing a claim.

now is as good a time as any to come in. hail season have been putting off repairs but realize the importance of getting it repaired before the next storm. Some didn’t notice the hail marks until now

when the sun has started shinning again.

and reconditioning services, glass

When it comes to

and vinyl wraps. They also do wheel

you might be asking

treatments, and window tinting.

where your vehicle

And that’s for starters. They service cars

answer is yes. Mike

replacement, ceramic paint coatings,

insurance claims,

repair, oil and filter changes, window

if you can choose

and trucks as well as boats, RVs, and

dirt bikes. All Metro Dent technicians

are certified and have at least 15 years of experience in the industry. And if

that weren’t enough, Metro Dent’s Auto Spa & Concierge Services have three

detailing packages (Emerald, Sapphire, and Diamond). These services range

from a basic exterior wash to clay bar

decontamination, interior detailing and stain removal, hand wax and polish, and more.

While their suite of services is constantly growing, dent repair is still the core of www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

is repaired. The

stressed that it is every vehicle owner’s right to choose their own

insurance and will not increase a

It is also important to remember that if you filed a claim and didn’t repair it last year,

you may lose the opportunity to file a new claim and potentially would have to pay

out of pocket. So if you have been waiting, there is no reason not

“We provide the highest and most consistent quality and service and also add valuable time back into people’s lives by being a one-stop-shop...”

facility. Metro Dent

to get it fixed.”

Metro Dent is open Monday through

Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. During hail season, Metro Dent

offers extended work hours, free pickup and delivery, free

works on your behalf with a licensed

car rental, and personalized service. No

approved at the proper level, which

“Hail is right around the corner. So is

independent adjuster to get your repair means you are assured of the highest

quality service. Plus, they can help with

your deductible and still offer loaner cars and a lifetime warranty.

appointments are necessary.

summer,” Mike said. “Now is the time to get your vehicle looking its best for any and every occasion. We will continue

to work tirelessly to exceed customer

“Many customers think that their rates

expectations, service needs, and

are now figuring out that it isn’t the case,”

straight Best of Denton County award.”

would go up by turning in a claim and

demands to raise the bar for a third

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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Grapes to Wine: Foodie Friday DFW

Grapes

TO WINE

S

ure, you might find it comical that this month I’m reviewing a wine bar considering Diet Coke is my beverage of choice, but we know what an integral part Grapes to Wine owners, Dan and Hazel Adams, are to our community, so we knew we had to tell their story!

When you walk into Grapes to Wine

own living room, as well as a new, large

it feels like you’re walking into the wine-

enjoy their wine on a beautiful Texas

does know your name. We were even

also enjoy live music - largely with a

Tuesday that everyone has their “assigned

Contrary to popular belief, you do not

located in the Bartonville Town Center,

covered patio which is a great place to

bar version of Cheers. Everyone seriously

day. A couple times a week, you can

told by a group who meets there every

70s/80s/90s vibe.

seat” at the bar. And watching Dan interact with all of them was so much fun. Their motto is “Enter as strangers, leave as

friends,” and we absolutely felt that while we were there with them.

to visit! While it does earn you discounts if

you choose to become a member, anyone is welcome at Grapes to Wine! (Even Diet Coke drinkers!)

In addition to the bar, Grapes to Wine also

So, let’s talk about their wine selection,

like you’re enjoying a glass of wine in your

selection of over 250 wines that will satisfy

has a large dining area where you’ll feel photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW

have to be a member of Grapes to Wine

shall we? Their Wine Wall has a unique

novices and wine experts alike. If you’re not sure where to start, Dan is happy to

help you find a wine that will meet your personal taste.

They also have several wines on tap,

which are great to try for $7 during their

Happy Hour which is every weekday from 4:00-6:00pm.

With every glass of wine, there should also be a perfectly curated dish of food to go along with it! Since this is Foodie Friday DFW, let’s talk about some of their food. Their Cheese and Charcuterie Board is filled with some beautifully-unique cheese selections.

Or you can try one of their signature sandwiches or flatbreads like the “Dan Special” Chicken Salad Sandwich or the California Flatbread.

We love this neighborhood wine bar because we know they value the idea of “community” as much as we do. So, if you’ve never been in to visit Dan and Hazel at Grapes to Wine, we suggest you get yourself over there soon!

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

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March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

Beauty, Health and Wellness Article

Perfect For The

Blow Dry

by Contributing Writer

20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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...today’s low-sudsing product uses botanicals and essential oils to gently remove dirt and replenish your hair with just enough moisture to keep it healthy...

2 IN

ONE SHAMPOO

&

CONDITIONER

I

t never fails. You try to recreate that perfect salon blowout at home but instead end up with something that makes you look like you spent a day in a wind storm. You don’t have to be a pro to get great results; you just have to use the right stuff.

The Right Suds Two-in-one shampoos were once thick,

make a world of difference to your hair’s health and appearance.

goopy concoctions intended to save

If smooth and sleek hair is your goal,

up coating the hair and robbing it of

friend. Applying the balm to damp hair

time in the shower, but that ended

volume. Thankfully, the new generation of shampoo-and-conditioner combos

is much more hair-friendly, and features natural ingredients that are lightweight

and promote fuller, bouncier hair. Instead of using harsh detergents that strip your scalp and hair of the good oils, today’s low-sudsing product uses botanicals

and essential oils to gently remove dirt

and replenish your hair with just enough moisture to keep it healthy, without leaving the volume-killing residue.

Creating a Barrier Blowing hot air directly on your naked hair is not unlike sitting on the beach without

wearing sunscreen. The result, over time, is dull, dry, and frizzy hair. Using a

thermal spray or blow-out balm can www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

quicker and smoother results, and also reduce frizz, by not blowing hot air on already-styled sections.

blow-dry balm should be your new best

Locking In Your Style

will lightly coat your hair, creating a

While the days of “freezing” your hairstyle

It also seals the hair shaft, making it

of hair spray will give longer life to your

protective barrier against the heat. appear smoother and shinier.

For those who blow dry, but prefer a more tousled style, a lightweight

spray-in thermal protector will let your natural wave come through.

That Nozzle

in place are long gone, a light misting blowout, especially if you live in a highhumidity region. Create a barrier against humidity, and the frizz that comes with it, by using a humidity-proof hairspray.

Once your style is just right, spray your hair with a light coating to retain the

Remember that removable nozzle that

sleekness. If you have thick hair, you may

threw in your bathroom drawer and

protect the layers under the surface.

came with your blow dryer, the one you forgot? It’s time to dig that little guy back out and place it where it belongs – on

want to spray your hair in sections to Using the right products and tools will

the end of your blow dryer. That nozzle

not only give you better hair but can

controlled stream, which you can then

all of these a try, and start enjoying salon

concentrates the air flow into a

extend the life of your style. Give any or

direct exactly where you need it. You get

results from your home.

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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Travel: Ask The Expert

Hwy 30A

Florida photos courtesy of Terri Guthrie

by Terri Guthrie

I

n 1981, my husband, Ron, had his first Air Force assignment at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida flying F-15 Eagles. It was a very exciting time and is still a common sight today to see and hear fighter jets fly over the Gulf of Mexico as you play on the beach.

My first job was at the Destin Chamber of Commerce and then as a radio news anchor at WFTW. This area is very special to us and why I wanted to share about 30A – the scenic two lane road that is filled with charm, natural beauty and pristine sugar sand beaches!

Blue Mountain: Head over to For The Health of It. It’s an organic food and produce market where you can fuel-up with fresh juices or smoothies. It’s also a great place for a body massage.

There’s actually large hills so be prepared to take stairs down to the beach.

Grayton: The Shard Shop is a trendy make-your-own-art boutique.

They offer classes in ShardART. This is a

place where you can create an original art piece. Or buy a piece of original art from artist and owner Mary Hong. The classes are fun and therapeutic.

Seaside: This is such a picturesque little village. Lots of great waterfront dining and rooftop bars. I love shopping here and stopping at Modica Market, a quaint gourmet grocery. If you want to learn to surf, attend Austin Magee’s Surf School at Seaside. Austin is our cousin and is an awesome international surfer.

Rosemary Beach: We love this area and The Pearl Hotel reminiscent of a European villa. Bike rentals are popular here so consider a bike trip – my kind of exercise!

There are endless things to discover along the 24 mile stretch of 30A. It’s always an active family vacation or a relaxing romantic getaway!

Follow Terri on Instagram @travelwithterri | blog travelwithterrri.net

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March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

24 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

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SHERIFF’S W ith

S heriff

T ra c y

Crisis Intervention Team

S

heriff Tracy Murphree stated, “Mental health is a crisis in our country and is a major problem facing law enforcement. I am very proud of our Crisis Intervention Team and the work they do to ensure our citizens suffering mental crisis are properly cared for.”

The Denton County Sheriff’s Office Investigators assigned to the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) use their dual certifications as Peace Officers and Certified Mental Health Officers to obtain the most appropriate placement for individuals assessed for emergency commitment.

apprehension and detentions

The CIT provides the citizens of Denton County with professional law enforcement mental health assessments and transportation of the mentally ill.

In doing so, the CIT conducts emergency

with the goal of reducing the number of

independently and in conjunction with Denton County MHMR, the

Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA).

The CIT remains in constant cooperation with the Local Mental Health Authority

and area law enforcement agencies to

comply with jail diversion requirements

mentally ill persons being inappropriately

M ur p hree

We are

HIRING

Detention

Officers!

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

incarcerated in the Denton County Jail and other detention facilities within the county.

940.349.1600 | 127 N. Woodrow Ln., STE. 300 • Denton, TX 76205 | dentoncounty.com/Departments/Sheriff.aspx www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Beauty, Health and Wellness Article

How To

Choose a

Med Spa

by Contributing Writer

W

ith all the products and services out there, the options seem endless when it comes to ways to help you look and feel your best. To really be pampered with longer lasting, comprehensive results, though, a med spa is the way to go. Whether you want laser treatments, body contouring, cosmetic injections, specialty skin care products, or one of any of a number of other services, you want to make sure the spa you select is appropriately managed and the message you’re getting from the staff is forthright. A little research can help find a med spa that works for you to be able to pamper yourself and improve your appearance.

Look into the relationship between

ownership and operations at the med spa.

Some facilities are owned by a physician,

who ideally spends significant time on-site managing treatments. Others are owned by physicians who provide no oversite.

Often a med spa will be under a doctor’s “Directorship,” some in which the doctor

is involved in all treatment decisions and some where the doctor is only on paper but they will rarely be at the location.

Determine who will be

treating you. Ask about

training and certification

of the person who will be

providing your service and

experience. One treatment

One treatment that is of concern is cosmetic injections.

that is of concern is cosmetic

injections. Permanent damage can

occur if the procedure isn’t performed

correctly. There are two types of injectors, those who are medically licensed and 26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

trained (physicians and nurses) and those who are just certified in cosmetic injections.

The most fundamental factor is that you will have expert treatment.

Verify that the med spa is clean and follows manufacture guidelines for all

Whether you’re speaking with a doctor or technician, they should be pleased to inform you about the treatment... www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

Know that the spa staff isn’t exaggerating treatment claims. products. Facials and other procedures which are not done following proper guidelines for cleaning of equipment and disposal of one time use products can all lead to infection. It’s critical that the environment is sanitary. Go to the spa before your appointment, get a tour, and specifically ask about efforts to keep the facility clean.

Know that the spa staff isn’t exaggerating treatment claims. You should sense trustworthiness and integrity. You want the doctor or technician to offer both the positive expected results of the treatment as well as possible negative side effects.

If there is anything that makes you nervous about the service, the doctor or staff should discuss your misgivings and give you a reasonable outcome and www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

typical recovery time. Whether you’re speaking with a doctor or technician, they should be pleased to inform you about the treatment so that you can relax.

If they’re heavily pushing a particular treatment over another, ask why, and do your research.

Understand the medical spa’s aftercare.

It’s important that the staff isn’t just trying

to interest you in their services but is also dedicated to your comfort and health following the visit.

When you evaluate various med spas, location and costs are important, but the quality of treatment is paramount.

You want to understand the extent of the doctor’s involvement and that you will be treated in a sterile environment.

A good med spa can give you a mental and emotional boost while also improving your physical appearance. Make sure you’ve chosen the right one.

March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 27

Lewisville resident

grows produce

to help

those

in need

by Steve Gamel

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

www.CastleHillsMagazine.com

E

very day for as long as he can remember, retired Navy chief and Lewisville resident T.C. Beckett would stop near town and visit with a homeless veteran named Tony, who had fallen on hard times and had a tent set up just outside of an old building. The two became friends, and T.C. was always looking for ways to help Tony get back on his feet.

But for a guy like T.C., who had lived his entire life serving others, his efforts never felt like enough.

Community Organic Garden in Old Town Lewisville. They currently donate food to the Salvation Army and other veteran organizations.

“The produce is fantastic, and my hope is that we can grow to the point where we can visit Denton and other places as well,” T.C. said. “I’m literally there every single day, and every time I go, I’m just enamored by it all.”

“One night, I remember it was raining. I asked, ‘Do you need help?’ All Tony kept saying was, ‘No. I’ve got my tent. I’m fine.’

But that always bothered me,” T.C. said.

“I’ve always wanted to care for vets. It bothered me that I couldn’t do more.”

Thanks to a little forward-thinking and a kind heart, T.C. never has to worry again about not being able to do more for the Tonys of the world. About a year ago, T.C. created a nonprofit called Veterans Produce with the twofold purpose of eliminating veteran hunger due to food insecurity and then training them on how to grow their own food. They help break the cycle by empowering veterans to provide for themselves. On top of that, building local community gardens enables 365-day access to exceptionally healthy organic food. Veterans work alongside each other, learning new skills, and experiencing the rewarding nature of farming and growing healthy organic food by their own hands.

Veterans Produce is located in a 220-square-foot greenhouse situated on one plot at the Rich Lubke

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And it’s expanding! When everything is said and done, T.C. says he’ll end up with 520 square feet and enough resources to harvest upwards of 200 nutritious plants a week to keep his brethren fed and healthy. A former farm boy from Louisiana, T.C. said he’s been growing and perfecting the process every day through meticulous attention to detail and plenty of trial and error.

“I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to do something to help … build homes, help reestablish veterans, etc.,” he said. “After I met Tony, I ran across this community garden and decided to talk to them about what I was thinking of.

They loved it, so I bought a plot of land

Do you need help?

I’m literally there every single day and went to work. This is all so beautiful.

It’s fantastic.”

Veterans Produce is entering its second growing season, and though it’s on a small footprint, T.C. said they can maximize their space through a form of hydroponics (water-based planting) called aquaponics.

Rather than relying on soil, this system uses fish water. The filtered fish water is pumped to the bottom of each grow bed to allow the nutrients to get to the roots faster. He said aquaponics generates 8 to 10 times more food per square feet 30% faster using 90% less water.

For more information, go to veteransproduce.org.

Photo courtesy of Kenny Smith March 2020 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Grandscape Development enjoying soft opening of Lifestyle Center

by Steve Gamel

Photo Curtesy of Grandscape Texas Facebook

A

massive headline on the Grandscape development website tells visitors to “choose your adventure.” It is quickly followed by a statement that refers to the mixed-use development as a new kind of destination that offers a little something for everyone.

It’s far from false advertising, and last month, city officials kicked things into another gear.

laser tag, professional racing simulators,

of North Texas an opportunity to see

Grandscape is projected to have its official

Future business openings, per The Colony

Per a report by The Colony CourierLeader on February 28, the city held a “soft opening” for Phase 1 of the Lifestyle Center at Grandscape on March 3 that included 14 unique businesses opening their front doors for the first time.

people to the city who may not have been

Among those were Andretti’s Indoor Karting & Games, a one-of-a-kind draw that offers everything from high speed superkarts to an indoor ropes course,

first-to-market so that they’re not much

30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | March 2020

bowling, and a motion theater. grand opening in mid-April.

“We’re going to have over 25 businesses open there,” Keri Samford, the city’s

economic development director, told The Colony Courier-Leader. “This will bring

in more sales tax, property tax and new here before to experience Grandscape

and all of the other amenities The Colony has to offer.”

She added, “One of the things

Grandscape has done really well is

identifying unique businesses that are

unique businesses.”

Courier-Leader, include a 325,000 square foot sporting goods store called Scheels All Sports, Galaxy Theaters, and several more restaurants and entertainment

venues. According to the same report,

Galaxy Theatres will feature 15 theaters,

luxury power leather recliners, a full service bar, and a Sony Digital Cinema Premium large-format auditorium with dual-laser projection system with 4K laser digital cinema projectors.

Live Grandscape, the luxury residential

piece to the project, will begin leasing in late 2020, the report said.

crossover,” Samford said. “All of the

To learn more about the Grandscape

The Colony citizens and the people

on the horizon, visit www.grandscape.com.

businesses can co-exist. That gives

development and all the amazing amenities

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