Life in Castle Hills Magazine September 2017

Breast Cancer

Prevention is Key

North Texas

Harvey Heroes

Class 5A Split Divisions

SEPTEMBER 2017

Charla Bradshaw Talks

Divorce

in the Lone star

state on

oust

See Inside for More Information

For H

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 3

4 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 5

CastleHillsMagazine.com

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray

What Makes

Administration

Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

Texans Great

Staff Writer

Susan Neuhalfen

Contributor Steve Gamel

Advertising Manager

Mendy Lea 214.228.5052 mendy@murray-media.com

Production

Art Director Liz Wallace Graphic Designers Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock

Photography

Your Candid Memories 469. 583.2819 yourcandidmemories.com

Letters

Life in Castle Hills invites reader feedback, story suggestions

M

y career started in Houston. Despite living in West

down as quickly as they could load them

York, Chicago and London,

lives and property, to help those in need.

Virginia, Connecticut, New

Houston is where I have lived for the

longest period of time. I kept going back.

As I tell people, no one moves there for the weather, but you won’t find better

Call 972.899.3637

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

Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101

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

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

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

up carpet and take neighborhoods down fellow Texans.

born here, but I won’t leave without a

fight, either. After watching the worst of

my fellow Texans leading the country to

Editorial and Advertising Inquiries

to door to help tear down sheetrock, pull

That holds true for all of Texas. I wasn’t

All submissions become the sole property of

Groups of volunteers are now going door

to the bare bones in order to help their

the country in Charlottesville, Virginia,

Murray Media Group.

took their own boats, risking their own

people on the planet.

and general comments.

Email artwork@murray-media.com.

(and get precious gasoline). Some even

just a few weeks ago, it’s wonderful to see victory over hate and division.

Despite the rivalry between Houston and

It wasn’t just Texans either. People have come from all over the country, taking their vacation time to help perfect strangers. In a way, after this disaster, we’re all Texans. We’re all Americans.

Dallas, I saw some amazing people here

It took a bully named Harvey to put it all in

neighbors to the South.

but Texas won the war.

in North Texas jump right in to help our

Many stores in the Denton Square and all over the Dallas/Fort Worth metro pitched

in to give their profits to the victims. Many more collected supplies and drove them

perspective. He may have won the battle,

Perseverance and resilience in the face of unthinkable odds is what makes Texas great. It’s also what makes Texans great.

Sincerly, Susan Neuhalfen

Writer and Editor for Life in Castle Hills, Argyle Living, Lantana Living, Lake Cities Living Susan@murray-media.com 972.899.3637 Ex. 101

Table of

Contents

16

24

On the Cover Charla Bradshaw

Featured: Local Lawyer, Statewide Reputation

Yourself 08 Breast Cancer:

Editor’s pick:

The Natives are Restless

20 Football: What’s All the Fuss About With Split Divisions in Class 5A?

Prevention is the Key

19 Volleyball: Lady Hawks’ Rollins and

10 Nutrition with Savory Bistro

Benbow Named All-American

12 Edit This with Steve Gamel

22 The Colony QB Out for Season

Family

Lifestyle

14 Inside Community

28 Gardening with Complete Solutions

15 Inside Education

29 Makeover of the Month

18 Counseling with Lifeworks

30 What’s in Style for North Texas

See Harvey’s Heros on pg

26

Fall/Winter 2017? september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 7

Yourself

Breast Cancer:

Prevention Is The Key

by Susan Neuhalfen

C

hances are, you’re in a room right now with a woman who has or has had breast cancer, and probably more than one woman. That’s because one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Think about that: one in eight.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime

Breast cancer is the #1 cancer killer

This is another reason to adopt a healthy

if you catch it early, there’s a very good

the better your chances of avoiding

among women but the good news is,

chance you can beat it. While there are many factors that contribute to breast cancer, most doctors will agree that prevention is the key.

The first step to prevention for women

is to remain up to date on their regular

exams. Though most women are urged

to begin mammograms at the age of 40, many doctors recommend that women

should start their own self-breast exams by the age of 30. There’s no risk so the earlier a woman starts, the better. It may cause

an unnecessary alarm but it’s better to be

lifestyle. The less risk factors you have, breast cancer.

Women over the age of 50, women who

have had children in their 30s and women who had a menstrual cycle prior to age

12 also have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Family history is another important

component. If a patient has a sister,

mother or daughter diagnosed with breast cancer, the risk for the patient is doubled.

If more than one of these relatives has

been diagnosed, the patient’s risk is five

safe than sorry.

times higher than average. As strange

Yearly mammograms after the age of 40

though it is rare. However, if a patient has

are another necessity. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may want to

consider a screening mammogram before the age of 40. Even if it isn’t covered by

as it sounds, men can get breast cancer a brother or a father with breast cancer,

her chances of developing breast cancer will increase.

insurance, a screening mammogram isn’t

Any instances of family cancer, on either

be certain.

reason for concern. There is also a small

very expensive and it would be worth it to If you have dense breasts, it may be

necessary to request a breast MRI or ultrasound. Ask the radiologist who

performs your mammogram to inform you of your breast density score and find out if a different test is right for you.

So how do you know if you are at risk for breast cancer?

While many like to point to family

history, there are, in fact, many other

factors that contribute to breast cancer.

While some are not within a patient’s

control, most have to do with everyday

side of the family, should give a patient chance that a patient’s breast cancer is

tied to a genetic mutation, though it only

accounts for about 5% of all breast cancer diagnoses. The good news is, there is

genetic testing available and, if found, a plan may be established early.

The most important thing a woman can do it simply limit risk. Some things are out of

our control, but if there are risk factors that you can control, you should.

Here is a quick list of things you should do: •

members. Knowing your family medical history

lifestyle choices.

can help you avoid a lot of medical issues, including breast cancer.

Some contributing lifestyle factors include: •

Obesity

•

Smoking

•

Excessive alcohol use (1-2 drinks per day)

•

Unhealthy diet (refined foods, meats, saturated fats, sugars)

Start by having a conversation with family

•

The next thing to do is stick to your regular OB-GYN exams and mammograms. For most of us, that’s only once a year – not really a big commitment.

•

Perform breast self-exams whenever you shower.

•

Above all, keep a healthy lifestyle. september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 9

Yourself | Nutrition

Healthy Family Meals For Fall Dear Annette: Fall is in full swing. With busy schedules, it seems impossible to have healthy meals ready for my family. Help! before I go through the drive-thru again!

Dear Reader:

Think also about sauces. One or two

First, let me congratulate you for not

sauces can transform a simple baked

Children’s brains are still developing and

a gourmet meal in minutes. Things like

wanting to go through any drive-thru.

chicken breast or some plain pasta into

there are now thousands of studies that

tomato sauce, pesto sauce, or a balsamic

clearly show that trans fats, processed sugars, and food additives affect how

our brains develop and function. That means that fast foods are negatively

affecting the brain and the body. So, what is the answer?

To be healthy we need to be using our kitchens or have access to healthy “to go’ meals such as the meals we have

at Savory Bistro. One dish meals were always popular because they were

fast and easy to make and full of good nutrients if made from scratch. This

time of year, think of soups and one

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Another option is what I call the “picky“

1 tablespoon freshly squeeze lemon juice

dinner. I like to use boards and put out

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

all sorts of fun ingredients. Some items might include olives, cheese, nitrate free

make a large pot of soup. Let it cool

and then divide it to freeze for another night. Soups are yummy and highly

nutritious. Kids love soup especially if they have helped to make it!

10 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

cold cuts, pickles, nuts, fruit, hummus,

1 tablespoon water (optional)

vegetables cut small, a little bread, and

Put the basil, pistachios, olive oil, lemon

you have a great dinner that requires no

juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor

cooking and is fast and easy.

and process until well blended. For a

Breakfast for dinner is also a perfect

process again. Taste; you may want to add

and spinach is a high protein, high fiber

are huge. Plan one day a week to

1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves

chicken breast to life.

months for those nights when there is time and coordination but the rewards

5 minutes • COOK TIME: 0

1/2 cup shelled raw pistachios

dish meals that are fast and easy. Most

no time to cook. Yes, this takes a little

MAKES ABOUT 2/3 CUP • PREP TIME:

vinegar sauce bring a simple baked

solution. Simple scrambled eggs with

can be frozen and keep for up to 3

Easy Pesto Sauce

onions, mushrooms, peppers, cheese dinner. It’s also fun to let the kids decide what they want to put into their eggs.

Take a little time to search for recipes with ingredients that appeal to you and take less than 20 minutes to make.

Here is one of my favorites:

thinner pesto, add the water and briefly

a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of salt.

Reprinted with permission from The Longevity Kitchen: Satisfying Big-Flavor Recipes Featuring the Top 16 AgeBusting Power Foods Copyright © 2013 by Rebecca Katz with Mat Edelson, Ten Speed Press, a division of the Crown Publishing Group, Berkeley, CA.

Sincerely Yours, Annette Doody

Savory Bistro Owner & Wellness Coach

www.thesavoryteam.com

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 11

Yourself | Edit This

10 Interview

Tips & Techniques

For Writers

I

learned a long time ago as a writer that to craft a compelling feature article or investigative piece, I had to be even better at the interview process.

The interview will make or break your next article, and it's not simply about reading from

question on their list, and not enough on listening.

7.

Keep notes for follow up stories – As you're interviewing, you'll learn new information that, while not pertinent to what you're writing now, could be fodder for later.

8.

Ask for clarification – If the person you are interviewing is talking about things you don't understand, ask them to explain. This is also critical in making sure you heard them right.

9.

Don't be afraid to ask stupid questions – I am the king of stupid questions. As a writer, you have to be able to explain the simplest of details to your readers.

Besides, stupid questions don't always lead to obvious answers.

a list of questions. Interviewing is about preparation, listening more than you speak, and striking a balance between doing your job and having trusting conversations that put everyone at ease – even when you're asking sensitive questions.

Here are 10 interviewing tips and techniques to get any writer going in the right direction.

1. Do your homework – Learn about

4.

the person you are interviewing

or three quick questions answered

with a list of questions ahead of

But for any lengthy interview, record

up. It's also good to come up

on deadline, use a notepad and pen.

time. If you don't, you'll do more

it. I prefer this because I can have a natural dialogue with someone

without having to worry about writing

asking anything of substance.

Show up on time – This shows you are a professional who cares about the

everything down.

5.

story, your craft, and the valuable time

Ask open-ended questions – When the person you are interviewing is a

Chatty Cathy, life is great. But that's

the person you are interviewing is

not always the case. Open-ended

dedicating to you.

3.

interview where you only need two

and the topic BEFORE you show

fumbling and bumbling than 2.

Bring a recorder – If it's an in-and-out

questions require more than a one-

Be personable and engaging – Nobody

word answer, and they help get you

going to open up to one in an

story for readers.

the information you need to tell the

likes a dead fish, and they're not

interview setting. I always start with a smile and create small talk to build rapport.

12 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

6.

Actively listen – Many young reporters I work with make the mistake of focusing too much on the next

10. Thank the person for their time – You have to build rapport in an interview from the very start, so it makes sense to close things out with a simple thank you. This shows you are a professional and that you care about their time.

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

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 13

Know

Be in the

Family

Inside Community

CAMP in Carrollton

Grab the camping gear and bring the whole family for a night under the stars at the Fall Family Campout on Saturday, October 7 starting at 5pm at the R.E. Good Soccer Complex, 2355 Sandy Lake Road. Dinner will be provided, as will a bonfire and a screening of Back to the Future. Registration is required for everyone. For more information, call Carrollton Athletics at 972-466-9833 or visit cityofcarrollton.com/athletics.

Castle Hills Book Clubs Abound Castle Hills has many book clubs including one that meets on the last Monday of every month from 11a-12p in the Josey Library. It is open to all Castle Hills residents and the next meeting will be September 25 discussing Isaac’s Storm

by Erik Larson. For information, contact debbiedumas.hamner0108@yahoo. com. If this time doesn’t suit, just join the NextDoor app for Castle Hills to find more book clubs in the area.

Castle Hills Lends a hand

Have Fun at the Fall Festival

Three cheers for the residents of Castle Hills who came together to help our neighbors to the south, namely Houston, in the wake of Hurricane Harvey! Everyone had a hand in helping out. One group of kids held a bake sale, another sold donuts and lemonade for the SPCA and many neighbors dropped off items with those who had family and were heading to Houston to help. Many thanks to all who aided in the effort.

Bring the whole family for an evening they will never forget! The Fall Festival at Castle Hills Village Shops & Plaza will be Saturday, October 28 from 5pm until 8pm.

There will be two horse drawn hayrides for everyone to enjoy. There will also be lots of fun for the kids including bounce houses, carnival games, a pumpkin patch, face painters, balloon artists, a photo booth, a petting zoo and more.

Inside Education

EVENTS

CHE Candy Lane Carnival October 20 Bring the whole family for a great evening of fun! The Castle Hills Elementary School Candy Lane Carnival will be held Friday, October 20 from 6pm-8pm. There will be bounce houses, face painting, games, food and lots and lots of fun. It all benefits the Castle Hills Elementary PTA. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, go to www.chepta.net.

Tickets will also be available at the door.

donuts with dudes Attention all male role model types! It’s time for Donuts with

Homecoming Game The Colony vs Denton September 15th, 7pm at Tommy Briggs Stadium

Dudes! Come and enjoy breakfast with your Independence Elementary students on October 13 from 7am until 7:45am.

They’ll have donuts and juice in the cafeteria for kids and dads, granddads or dad-like figures. Start your Friday morning off right and have a great breakfast with your student before classes start for the day. No need to sign up, just show up!

Killian MS Counseling

STEM Video wins $1000

If your family is going through a divorce

Attention high school and middle school

transition the whole family might benefit from

students! Inspire elementary students to

small group offered by school counselor Brent Hughes at Killian Middle School.

Hughes is offering a non-threatening, activitybased small group to help you and your family cope with divorce. Please contact Brent Hughes at hughesd@lisd.net for more information.

learn about careers in science, technology, engineering and math and you could win $1,000 from State Farm. Create a video to explain to elementary students why a career in STEM is the way to go. Videos can be up to 3 minutes and the student must pick a technology. Submissions start October 1.

Learn more at www.techtitans.org.

Homecoming Dance

September 16th, 8-11pm at The Colony High School *only TCHS students allowed

Homecoming Parade/Community Pep Rally October 4th, 6-8pm at Hebron HS Stadium

Homecoming Game Hebron vs LD Bell October 6th, 7:30-10pm at Hebron HS

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 15

Local

Lawyer, Statewide Reputation

by Steve Gamel

O

You could go to any court in Texas and find a judge, competing counsel or client who has worked with Charla Bradshaw.

r at least knows someone who has. Bradshaw has been a trusted family law attorney for more than 24 years, and the demand for her services — not just in Denton, but across Texas — has literally taken her all over the state.

Simply put, Bradshaw is a local lawyer

whose statewide reputation only scratches the surface.

In fact, simply trying to recall all the

from Denton High School, as did her

Bradshaw’s reputation has grown

has become quite the challenge for the

the community, and Charla is very much

before that she is known for summarizing

followed in their footsteps.

statewide and even internationally.

Texas counties she’s worked cases in Denton native.

“Oh gosh, I’ve been to Lubbock County,

grandparents. They were all plugged into

exponentially over the years. We’ve written

that little girl from down the street who

some of the most difficult cases, locally,

Potter, Medina, Montague … you name

Needless to say, practicing law in her

prefer to stay in their own territories, but

true. But it’s Bradshaw’s willingness to

it,” Bradshaw said. “Some attorneys may with me it’s like — have file, will travel.”

Make no mistake that Bradshaw, the

managing shareholder of KoonsFuller

Family Law’s Denton office, is a Dentonite to the core. Both her parents graduated 16 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

hometown continues to be a dream come work with clients in and beyond Denton

Her vast experience in family law has

made her a popular choice as an expert

for speeches, television, and radio stations

looking to discuss divorce-related matters.

County, all the while adapting to whatever

The many accolades she’s received

Bradshaw and her team at KoonsFuller

She recently made the Top 50: Women

setting she’s in, that has helped both

along the way are proof of that success.

stand out in a state where clients have

Texas Super Lawyers List. The annual list

plenty of legal options.

has been in existence since 2002, and

Bradshaw has made it every year without

“I honestly don’t think a lot of people

Lawyer in the 2016 Best of Denton

option,” Bradshaw said. “Sometimes you

fail. Locally, she was named Best Divorce County awards.

That’s a huge advantage for clients who want the right legal representation.

Bradshaw has worked her share of bitterly contested divorce cases as well as those

unfortunate ones where only one spouse

realize it’s possible … that they have that have someone who is from a really small town where everyone knows each other, and they don’t feel comfortable working

with a local attorney for that very reason.

So they seek out someone from outside to help. There’s no rule against it.”

wanted the marriage to end. In each case, Bradshaw was just

as much a confidant who could not only defend the client

in the courtroom, but slow things

down enough to be compassionate in

answering questions and calming fears.

All of that has clearly

“...there are still too many people out there who need help from an experienced lawyer but feel as if they are limited to working with attorneys in their area.”

caught the eye of potential clients.

KoonsFuller, the largest family law firm

in the Southwest, is unique in that all its

attorneys — not just Bradshaw — have the

necessary reach to cover a huge swath of Texas without batting an eye. And unlike

sure she is the right

find out everything I can ahead of time.

judge, or they know me. But I still try to

fit — especially in those situations where

she is taking on a case outside her immediate area.

“I would never take a case if it would be to the detriment of the client. It’s all about

putting the client in the best possible

light,” Bradshaw said. “Every court in every county, in every state, has different rules. I do my research, because there are many things I need to look at.”

different states.

need to file in the court with jurisdiction

Bradshaw said she’s happy to lead that

that original court may want to hear

has moved up here. Bradshaw would

photography by Kent Barker Sponsored Content

they can go to take on a case. So just

simply just isn’t the case.”

Lawyers have zero limitations on where because Bradshaw offices in Denton, that doesn’t mean she can’t help someone in Lantana, El Paso, Houston —

or for that matter — even California.

chance at winning the case.

Bradshaw said. “Sometimes I know the

expand that reach even into

working with attorneys in their area. That

a legal team to give the client a better

homework to make

over a child in a case, but now that child

lawyer but feel as if they are limited to

from the client’s area, essentially creating

constantly doing her

areas, KoonsFuller has the ability to

who need help from an experienced

working substantively with another lawyer

and experience different courtrooms,”

where another county has jurisdiction

there are still too many people out there

Bradshaw could end up traveling or

Bradshaw said she is

same experience working in different

Bradshaw said “The ironic thing is that

If there ends up being a court case,

“Either way, I love to meet new judges

For example, there could be a case

In her latest interview with Lantana Living,

Sometimes the clients come to her first.

At the same time,

some legal offices that may not have that

charge, but sees it all as just doing her job.

doesn’t mean she always has to travel.

After you do it a few times, you get pretty comfortable with it. It’s just part of what I do.”

And that’s proof that despite all the successes and accolades, Bradshaw’s eyes are firmly set on her clients’ needs — no matter where they may be.

“My roots go way back in Denton County, and I’m a Dentonite through and through,” Bradshaw said. “But I also believe clients should be able to hire a lawyer by choice.

If that means I need to travel, that’s what I’ll do. It’s a fun part of my job.”

and ask for a transfer. But in the meantime, temporary orders.

“One thing I know is that you can’t walk

into any court thinking everything works

the same, and sometimes you can’t even dress the same way. I would never walk

into a court in Montague County dressed like I just stepped out of a courtroom in

Dallas. Clients will ask me if I know judges in their area, or if I’ve ever been there. To

do a case, you have to fit into that area … do things their way in their community.

That, to me, is serving the client.”

Even though Bradshaw may take a case from out of her immediate area, that

Charla Bradshaw has been practicing

family law for more than 24 years and is co-author of the book

Protecting Your Assets from a Texas Divorce.

To learn more, visit her page at www.koonsfuller.com.

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 17

Family | Counseling

Back

in the

Swing

F

riday night football, heavier traffic, pumpkin spice lattes…fall is here and families are settling back into the school routine.

Shifting back into school mode can be difficult. If your family is struggling to adjust, here are some ways to help get everyone’s day off to a better start.

Limit Screen Time and Social Media

success aren’t just for tests. Doing these

These are some ways to maintain a healthy

Whether your kids are in kindergarten

regularly will help your kids be successful

balance of what we have to do (work,

or high school, limits need to be set regarding social media and screen time.

Navigating where to set the line can

every day.

school) and what we want to do (have

Schedule Family Time

happens and following a simple list is not

be difficult when school requires these

Let’s face it. When things are chaotic, if

for homework and group interaction.

it isn’t scheduled, then it isn’t going to

Regardless, electronics need to be

happen. It’s easy to get lost in school

turned in an hour before bedtime to give your brain a break and prepare for a restful sleep.

Treat Every Day Like a Test Day

activities and neglect face to face interaction. Designate family time to be together – without electronics - to invest in each other. Kids and teens are more likely

Eat a good breakfast. Don’t overschedule.

to talk to parents when they see parents

Get a full night’s sleep. These tips for

take time to be with them.

18 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

fun with others). Sometimes, though, life enough. If your family needs more to achieve that balance, you are not alone.

If you would like help with living well, we encourage you to start the conversation.

Live well. Let us help.

by Amanda Owen, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S Lifeworks businessoffice@lifeworkscc.com

Family

Volleyball:

Lady Hawks’

Rollins and

Benbow

Named All-Americans

by Steve Gamel

T

he Hebron volleyball team is a little over a month into the high school volleyball season, and two

Lady Hawks have already captured AllAmerican honors.

Senior outside hitter Adanna Rollins and

This year’s All-USA team consisted of 21

volleyball players spread out across first, second, and third team. Players were

selected based on past performances, level of competition, and strength of

schedule. Rollins and Benbow were two

senior libero Annie Benbow both were

of four Texas players to make the team,

Family Insurance All-USA Preseason Girls

Worth area.

selected last month to the 2017 American

and the only ones from the Dallas-Fort

Volleyball Team. The teams were chosen

Since Hebron opened in 1999, it has

by John Tawa of PrepVolleyball.com.

consistently maintained its status as one of

Rollins, who is committed to Minnesota,

the top teams in its classification because

second team.

churn out standout player after standout

was a first-team selection. Benbow made Both players were instrumental in guiding Hebron to 46 wins in 2016. The Lady

Hawks captured their second-straight

of head coach Karen Keeney’s ability to

player. The program won its first state title

in 2004, and has since repeated that effort in 2010, 2015 and 2016.

Class 6A state title, giving the program

Hebron is in the middle of the District

named MVP of the state title match and

out the first half of league play against

had 565 digs and joined Rollins on the

the second half of district on Oct. 3

four state titles since 2004. Rollins was

6-6A schedule. The Lady Hawks will close

finished the year with 540 kills. Benbow

Trophy Club Byron Nelson before starting

all-state team.

against Lewisville.

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 19

Family

Football:

What’s All the Fuss About With Split Divisions in Class 5A?

by Steve Gamel

I

f you’ve been paying attention to high school football storylines, you may have heard about the University

Interscholastic League’s plans to move

forward with a split division format before the start of next season.

in Dallas sits on the borderline between Division I and Division II using current enrollment figures, the DMN article states. Since Dallas ISD schools – which are all in close proximity to each other – could fall on different sides of the

Under this format, all Class 5A teams will

division cutoff number, Wilson’s district

for the regular season and playoffs based

could, in turn, create scheduling and

be split between Division I and Division II

mates could change drastically. This

on their enrollment numbers. The goal is

transportation issues.

to match schools of similar size with one

another rather than having smaller schools squaring off against schools with larger numbers and depth to pull from.

turned in on Oct. 27 to determine

every team’s fate for realignment day in February.

Sounds like a good plan, right? It’s all in the name of competitive balance, and

having split divisions is really not a foreign concept, anyway. Teams competing in

Class 4A and below are already using it.

For example, Argyle is in Class 4A Division to its own size both during the regular season and playoffs.

But with any great plan, there can

always be the potential for chaos. So what’s all the fuss?

According to a Dallas Morning News

article last month, the biggest concern is fear of the unknown – split divisions

will affect every program differently. For example, Woodrow Wilson High School 20 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

“It levels off the disparity and creates a level playing field, because you won’t have teams with an enrollment number of 1,100 competing against schools with enrollment numbers at 2,200,” Young said. “As an example, Division II could be schools with enrollments between 1,100 and 1,600. Any coach will tell you that numbers are very important.”

Another benefit Young pointed to is a consistent playoff structure. Under the current format, teams are split into different divisions once playoffs start, which means teams that win district don’t always get matched up with the right opponent.

The UIL will use enrollment numbers

I and competes against schools relative

see cause for concern when it comes to the split division format, especially with the threat of more travel. But that’s where all the concerns should end.

There is also the possibility that the cutoff numbers in each classification (1A through 6A) could change and force teams that are on the bubble between 5A and 6A to move up a weight class. Highland Park, for example, is a large 5A school, but spent 2014 and 2015 in Class 6A and could find itself moved up again.

All of this has created quite a lot of conversation among area coaches. Lake Dallas football coach Michael Young can

“If you win your district, you’re supposed to play the fourth place team from whatever district you are lined up with,” Young said. “But it doesn’t always work out that way. We’ve had it happen here where we won our district and ended up facing a second-place team in the first round. That doesn’t make any sense. This new format should fix that.”

There are plenty of other coaches who also have come to terms with the potential changes that lie ahead, but it will continue to be a topic of conversation until realignment day. Until then, they’ll simply have to focus on this season and let the chips fall where they may after that.

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 21

Family

QB

The Colony T Out for Season

by Steve Gamel

he Colony quarterback Jemel Jones was one of the best players in the area last year and had huge expectations placed on his shoulders heading into this season. But a season-ending injury has put all of those expectations on hold.

The Dallas Morning News reported in August that Jones, who is committed to Army and is the reigning District 145A Co-MVP, tore his Achilles tendon in June. He has already had surgery, but it is expected that he won’t be completely recovered until December.

This can only be seen as a monster blow to the Cougars, who relied on Jones last year as he threw for almost 1,500 yards while rushing for more than 1,000 yards in leading The Colony to the playoffs. Per the DMN, he’ll finish his career with 2,750 passing yards, 1,107 rushing yards and 34 total touchdowns (24 passing, 10 rushing).

He also only threw 10 interceptions.

How this year’s season plays out for the Cougars remains to be seen. We are barely a month into the season and the team is gearing up for district play.

The Colony coach Rudy Rangel had three quarterbacks to work with knowing that Jones would be on the shelf heading into the season. Those names include Jaxon Gibbs, Keegan Sueltz and Michael Harrington.

22 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

photography by Steve Downes

Despite Jones’ absence, there’s not much separating The Colony from possibly laying claim to the District 14-5A title. Last year, the Cougars lost a wild 56-31 game to Prosper on Oct. 21, yet both teams went on to end the regular season with identical 6-1 district records. Prosper was ultimately named the district champions due to head-to-head tiebreaker rules, but the Cougars likely feel that crown is just as much theirs.

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 23

Lifestyle

The Natives

Restless are

by Susan Neuhalfen

S

ure we love our football in Texas, but just as important to many is the halftime show. Marching band halftime performances have become an art form. Not only have the bands become more competitive musically, their shows have become productions of a Broadway caliber.

In only his second year as Director of Bands for The Colony High School,

Michael Larkin has brought his own brand of creativity to the

field. After spending six was excited to lead a North Texas band.

“This district is

one of the best

districts you can

teach in as far as

is known to have some of the best music and band programs in the country.”

In his first year at TCHS, Larkin came in after the show was created, but

this year, he started with a fresh idea and then brought in the rest of the

staff to plan their show for this year.

According to Larkin, everyone on his staff has a say in the show, it’s truly a team effort.

photography by Steve Downes

years in Florida, he

music education,” said Larkin. “Texas

“We had a standing room only meeting back in April,” said Larkin enthusiastically.

“We presented the idea and we got everyone on board. We rallied the

the Maori Haka dance, a traditional war dance designed to scare the opponent

before battle. Then there is the battle itself followed by a more lyrical section, paying

students and parents and everyone

respect to the fallen warrior.

was excited.”

“The end is the celebration of the warrior’s

Marching rehearsals started in April with a series of spring camps and rehearsals throughout the summer. Mandatory band camp started August 1. The theme for the show is “The Rite of Passage” and the scene is tribal, based on the Maori tribe in New Zealand. The show begins with a call to battle, the battle itself and then a celebration of the warrior’s life.

“One of my first shows

life,” said Larkin. “The students really love it.”

Because there are so many things that

go into the show, the show will

“Texas is known to have some of the best music and band programs in the country.”

was a native American show,” said Larkin. “I used what I learned from that show to make the changes that I really wanted to make this show a success.”

The show begins with some students hidden who then come running onto the field to square off with their opponent.

It is choreographed in the tradition of

not be complete until

the last week of the

season. What crowds at football games are seeing now

and competitions, tweaking the show and the music along the way. Luckily for Larkin, he has not only a dedicated group of students, he has an amazing team of parents as well.

“The band parents are fantastic,” said Larkin. “They work all year round for us, just non-stop.”

Larkin said that the parents are a key component in the success of the band.

It’s vital for parents and as well as the community to support music education and support the students. He encourages

isn’t the finished

the parents to not only show up for

why Larkin

rehearsals as well.

product. That’s encourages

everyone to watch

each week to see

what they’ve added

and changed.

“The performance is never completely

ready until the very last show,” said Larkin.

“It will be in its final form for the area and state competitions.”

The Colony High School Marching Band

multiple shows, but to come to the

“They should see how hard these kids work at rehearsal,” said Larkin.

“Showing up, whether at practice or at a performance, makes the students feel special.”

As for Larkin, he’s just excited to showcase his students’ hard work.

“Every show is a new production,” said

will have its first competition the first

Larkin. “I get up every morning to continue

band will have multiple performances

and continue to develop the show.”

weekend in October. From there, the

to work with the students, make music,

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 25

Lifestyle

North Texas

T

Harvey Heroes

by Susan Neuhalfen

he rivalry between Houston and Dallas is always fun, but when disaster strikes, we’re all Texans and we all pull together. No sooner had Jim Cantore taken cover than our North Texas community started south with supplies and much needed helping hands. Though we couldn’t personally thank everyone around for their help, here are some wonderful people that went above and beyond the call of duty to help our friends in the southeast.

Several residents in Castle Hills worked to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey. One group of children sold donuts and lemonade to raise money for the SPCA and the other held a bake sale. All of the proceeds went to help the families affected by the hurricane.

photo courtesy of LDPD Facebook

Lake Dallas Police Officer Sara Deville was deployed (136th Military Police Battalion - Texas Army National Guard ) to assist with search and rescue efforts.

26 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

Shady Shores Elementary collected toiletries, socks, underwear, diapers shoes and school supplies.

P.I.E 3.14 served as a drop off location for donated items and then delivered them to Houston.

The Palm Tree Boutique, J.T. Clothiers and several other downtown Denton businesses donated their sales on August 31 to Global Giving Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund and the SPCA of Texas. photo courtesy of RPM Construction

Donnie Finchum with RPM Construction headed straight to Port Arthur with his boat helping to rescue those stranded by Hurricane Harvey. On the first trip down they were able to rescue of 20 people, 4 dogs and 1 cat. The second trip was a supply trip with 13,000 pounds of bottled water, 6 cases of formula, 4 cases of depends, 18 cases of diapers, 2 cases of wipes, two giant bags full of brand new socks and underwear, a lot of snacks and food, pre-made hygiene kits, hygiene supplies, tarps and towels.

photo courtesy of RPM Construction

Paula’s Canine Academy took in dogs in need from displaced owners due to the flooding. They also took in pets for volunteers who were traveling to Houston to help with the hurricane recovery effort free of charge.

photo courtesy of Pure Synergy

Pure Synergy Wellness Studio accepted donations and promptly delivered the first truck full of donations to the people of Rockport.

Lifestyle | Gardening

Not So Great Deal You Get What You Pay For

THINGS TO REMEMBER Q-What is your pay schedule on this project?

A-Most professionals will have a draw type payment schedule (depending on overall total) or a 50-50 split upon completion.

If you’re asked for a majority of all funds upfront without a binding contract and before the materials have even been dropped on site you’re probably not

dealing with a trustworthy company.

N

ow that school started it’s time to get to work preparing for fall.

September is a great time to get

the ball rolling on that outdoor space or

landscaping project, but as you’re getting bids remember to keep your eye out for

As busy as the construction industry is right now, it’s always a good idea to

business here locally?

have a prepared checklist ready when

A- A contractor who’s been around for

interviewing any potential contractors.

It is our job as contractors to make you

quality. Everyone’s looking for a “great

feel comfortable with the information

lowest price and into the company behind

for it. They should be able to provide

deal” but be careful! Look through the

we provide. Make your candidates work

it. We warn against it as we go into the

references, take you to a couple of

busy season every year but daily we run

into situations where the best price/lowest price got the job and now your paying double or triple to fix it.

With new construction comes all the

handymen turned patio builders and lawn mowers turned landscapers. There is a

big difference in having someone that’s

studied design and space management

with years of “patio specific” construction

experience. Having a degreed landscape designer put a plan together for you will ensure a higher success rate with your

plants simply because they understand

completed (as well as in-progress) jobs, and ensure you get a real-time view of

Ensuring you’re dealing with professionals makes a huge difference in the overall product and process.

28 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

5 to 10 years has established a solid

network of suppliers, subcontractors and has earned a local reputation. This will

make them a safer bet than a contractor

who’s either new to the business, the area or planning on commuting in from an outside location.

Q-Can you provide me with at least five

what to expect while things are under

local referrals?

construction as well as when they’re

A-All contractors should be prepared to

finished. In our area there are many great contractors who have proven themselves

provide at least five references for you to gauge their quality of work and

time and time again and won’t balk at your

overall experience.

questioning them or their work.

Q-Are you insured and registered here

Just remember as your organizing your

with our city?

next project don’t put yourself in a

A-Any company that is worth doing

situation where you’ve paid less and been left hoping for more.

working with the sun / shade exposure scenarios in our climate and soil types.

Q-How many years have you been in

by PJ Kratohvil of Complete Solutions completesolutionsdfw.com

business with will carry both insurance

and local registrations wherever they are working. You should expect to pay more

for dealing with a legitimate company but you’ll also rest easy knowing that you’re

protected and following city codes when taking on your project.

Makeover | Lifestyle

Makeover of the Month

Anna Casteen

Anna Casteen was nominated by her

sister, Amy, for a makeover. After eight

years of teaching middle and high school

photography by Caroline Simpson

Before After

math in New York, Anna has moved back to the area and no one is happier about this than Amy. They do Zumba together

twice a week, have game nights and now Amy is helping her get ready for her

wedding in February. On top of all that,

Anna is apparently the “coolest aunt ever” to Amy’s daughter.

Anna now teaches at a community

college and doesn’t have the summer off, only Fridays, so Amy thought a Makeover and clothes provided by

makeover at Cloud 9 would be a perfect way for her to enjoy the summer, even if for only one day.

214.415.4806 www.cloud9salon.com

Make-up by esthetician Pauletta Collins Pauletta gave Anna a mini facial to remove dead skin to brighten her

appearance and add moisture. She also performed an eyebrow wax and tint so

that her eyebrows would frame her face for hair and makeup purposes.

Make-up application done by Taylor Compton Taylor lightened Anna’s hair two levels,

and added a lightning strike in the front to

brighten up her face, in order to match her personality to her new look.

Taylor used Mary Kay make-up provided by

Lindsey Redfern Mills, a pink Cadillac driving

Sr. Director with Mary Kay Inc. who wants every woman to feel beautiful in her own skin.

Want to be the next Makeover? Email cloud9salon@cloud9salon.com and tell us why you deserve it!

september 2017 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS | 29

Lifestyle

What’s in Style for North Texas

Fall/Winter 2017?

I

t’s almost starting to get a little cool outside which means it’s time for new clothes!

Here are the latest trends for Autumn/Winter 2017 from our friends at Palm Tree Boutique in Plano and the Denton Town Square.

Plaid

It’s easy to transition your wardrobe into autumn by replacing your bright spring-like florals with darker hues such as deep blues, rich purples, and warm yellows.

Plaid is a primary pattern for Autumn/Winter 2017, but it’s not just for flannel button-ups anymore.

Plaid is getting an update with classic silhouettes like the bell sleeve jacket pictured. Feel free to play with the pattern by adding a pop of animal print or embroidered shoes.

Effortlessly add texture to any outfit with the perfect faux suede piece.

From leggings and tops to moto jackets and dresses, this lush fabric will be the coziest and most stylish addition to your closet.

Styling: Tasia Shadden Burns, Palm Tree Boutique photography by Brooke Parr 30 | LIFE IN CASTLE HILLS

| september 2017

floral suede