M AY 1 5 , 2 0 2 0 - J U N E 1 9 , 2 0 2 0
Home & Garden Issue
If You Can
THINK IT, WE CAN
BUILD IT Direct Mailed to the Following Areas:
Northlake - Justin - Roanoke (Canyon Falls - Harvest)
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 3
Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray
Administration
Managing Editor Jana Melton Sub-Editors Bobbi Byrne Alisha Tran
Writers & Editor Brooke Ezzo Steve Gamel
Advertising Manager
Kelly Murray 972.890.1128 Kelly@murray-media.com
Production
Graphic Designers Caroline Brock Alyson Modene
Photography
Nick Allen Photography 307.254.0451 www.naphoto307.com
Letters
35 West Magazine 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 35 West Magazine 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. 35 West Magazine 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
ONE STEP AT A TIME
A
t a young age, I was told that I had Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome, and the probability of me having children was very low. I let this lie into my heart and ultimately tricked myself into believing that I never wanted to be a mother anyway. In March of 2013, I found out I was
pregnant. My entire pregnancy was euphoric and the walls I had built
around my heart began to crumble. In November 2013, my son was
born. I instantly knew my purpose in this life was to love and protect this child.
On my 30th birthday, I found out I was pregnant with our second child, another boy. There was
nothing during my pregnancy that
indicated something was wrong and for reasons we do not know, our
son passed away 35 minutes after
delivery. I carried him for 40 weeks and 5 days.
Weeks after our loss, I was doing a
Bible study and read some scripture that I couldn’t get past. I wrote it
down in my journal, asked in prayer
told me that I was going to have twin boys someday. I have been holding onto that journal for four years. As of today, I am 22 weeks pregnant with identical twin boys. You can probably imagine my hysterics in the original sonogram and the gender reveal sonogram. I am blown away by the faithfulness and love God has shown me. I know it is hard when we are in the muck. The confusion and the worry to believe that things could get better. But my hope for you and for our community as we begin to open back up is to remember that smiles, kindness, and love go a long way. There are some who are hurting financially and emotionally, and instead of being another thorn, we should try to be their rose.
over and over what it meant, and
We all have a story. Let’s work together and take it one step at a time.
told my husband and a few close
Since we just celebrated Mother’s Day, if you have any stories of motherhood you’d like to share, email me at Brooke@Murray-Media.com.
decided to put it aside and wait. I family members of my revelation,
but I think we all thought it sounded a little nuts. For me, the scripture
Sincerely, Brooke Ezzo Writer for Murray Media Group, Brooke@murray-media.com
4 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
HOME &
GARDEN ISSUE
LOOK FOR THE ICON
ASK THE EXPERTS 15 Dentistry with Country Lakes Family Dental
27 Travel with Terri Guthrie SPONSORED SENIORS 08 Country Lakes Family Dental BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 19 Jay Marks Real Estate:
The Nicest Guy In Town
FEATURED ARTICLE
16 If You Can Think It, We Can Build It
ARTICLES 06 Garden Trends For 2020 09 Foodie Friday DFW: Earl’s 377 Pizza 10 Inside Community and Education 12 Living In Isolation 14 Sheriff’s Corner with
Sheriff Tracy Murphree
18 COVID-19 Continues 20 Continues Support 22 Grieve End Of
Spring Sports Season
24 Argyle Business Association
EDITOR’S PICK
28 Local Resident Answering The Call www.35WestMagazine.com
26 Local News - Business’s Reopen 30 A Picture Is Worth
A Thousand Words
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 5
Home & Garden Article
GARDEN
TRENDS FOR 2020
6 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
by Brooke Ezzo
www.35WestMagazine.com
P
eople have been gardening since the beginning of time. For some parts of the country, it is how they make their living. For other parts, it is a sustainable way of living. Gardening can be very therapeutic as well as pleasing to the eye. It can turn any space into something beautiful and functional. This year has turned out to be a very eyeopening experience for us all. We have witnessed businesses closing and the comfort of convenience interrupted. The supply and demand scale for certain items has been thrown off, and many people have retreated to learning how to grow and make household necessities themselves. The lack of certain foods in the grocery stores and practicing social distancing has led many people to start their own home gardens. If you don’t have a green thumb but want one, here are some easy gardening trends for 2020 to get you started. VERTICAL GARDENING Herbs are something everyone loves to have on hand. Fresh basil, cilantro, parsley, and mint can easily been grown using vertical gardening. Growing plants and produce vertically also reduces the carbon footprint, improving the quality of air. This type of gardening can maximize space. Create an herb garden in your kitchen, a lettuce tower on your patio, or construct wood planters on your back fence. The sky is literally the limit when it comes to vertical gardening. COMPOSTING Instead of having to go out and buy gardening soil from the stores, starting your own compost is free and comes with many benefits. When you compost wasted food and other organics, you are basically eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers. Composting enriches your backyard soil, encourages the production of beneficial bacteria and fungi, and
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absorbs water. Giving your garden a steady source of moisture and nutrients. REPURPOSING With the slow reopening of our communities and businesses, finding ways to repurpose household items in your garden saves time and money. Plus, repurposing never goes out of style. Some ideas are classic like pails and wooden crates, and some can be more creative. Old drawers can be constructed into a 3-tier flower tower, a chandelier could be painted and hung on a patio for flowing plants, or an old picture frame could be used for succulents and vertical gardening. It’s a nice combination: spring cleaning and purposeful gardening. GARDEN TO TABLE Many of us love and live by this term. So why not take this season to ensure that some of your favorites are coming from your own backyard. The growing season is not over yet. There is plenty of time to
put some seeds in the ground or in your vertical planters. To round out the end of May, some great produce to plant now includes black-eyed peas, cantaloupe, cucumber, eggplant, green beans, lima beans, okra, peppers, pumpkin, sweet corn, sweet potato, squash, and watermelon. Peppers, okra, and squash tend to grow like crazy in North Texas, and don’t forget most of your produce can be canned or frozen for later use. There is a lot of value in learning basics of backyard gardening and planting foods that can sustain us. As we have witnessed the last few months, there isn’t always a guarantee that what we need, when we need it, will be in the stores. There is a peace that comes with gardening and growing your own food, and we hope you find it!
To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. -Audrey Hepburn
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 7
This Page is Sponsored by
Congratulations
2020 SENIORS
8 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
940.455.7645 CountryLakesDental.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 200 Bartonville, TX 76226
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Earl’s 377 Pizza: Foodie Friday DFW
EARL’S
377
PIZZA
A
s a lover of the theatre, I appreciate a restaurant that has a great backstory to it - even if it is mostly made up. And if you haven’t been to Earl’s 377 Pizza out in Argyle, you’ve yet to experience one of the greatest restaurant stories of all time!
Earl’s is the unique brainchild of well-
The story of Earl the veteran is much
Pearson, who had the vision to turn the
Earl’s 377 Pizza, as well as the remainder
photos courtesy of Foodie Friday DFW
known local restaurateur, John ‘Sparky’ old Argyle Volunteer Fire Department into something truly special.
And ‘special’ is exactly what I would call Earl’s.
At Earl’s you’ll become a player in the
story about a fictitious military vet who met his wife, Isabella, overseas in Italy and convinced her to move back to
more than “just a story,” however.
of the restaurants under the Radical
Hospitality Group, have teamed up with
Spirit of a Hero, a nonprofit that works to help veterans right here in North Texas. At their restaurants you can find a
special menu item which has all of its
proceeds donated to Spirit of a Hero. And at Earl’s that item is their Spirit of
Texas with him only after promising to
a Hero Pizza topped with a BBQ-Ranch
help her realize her dream of opening
sauce, Bumbershoot chopped brisket,
an Italian restaurant.
and red peppers.
In the decor of the restaurant, you’ll
Another of their pizzas we love is their
“good-ol’-boy” style and Isabella’s
mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil,
the toppings which pairs perfectly with the hearty crust.
And when it comes to Italian classics,
Earl’s has more than just pizza mastered.
Their Nonna’s Meatballs are a fan-favorite as well as their Vita Mia Lasagna made
with a classic bolognese sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella.
notice the juxtaposition of Earl’s
Margherita Pizza made with pieces of fresh
When you come to Earl’s, you’re
more refined Italian taste.
and garlic oil. We love the fresh quality of
great experience.
guaranteed to have a great meal and a
*During COVID-19 Shutdowns Earl’s 377 is open for curbside pick-up. You can call in your order at 940.464.4444 or order online.
972.724.2540 | JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 | Flower Mound, TX 75022
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 9
INSIDE COMMUNITY
APOLLO SUPPORT AND RESCUE
1170 Dove Hill Rd. • Justin, TX 76247
ONE TABLE FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS
Every Friday | 3 - 5:30pm | One Table Food Pantry - One Church 531 John Wiley Rd. • Justin, TX 76247 Due to the affects of COVID-19, more families have been in need of food assistance. If you are able and willing to donate, many local food pantries are looking for more nonperishables. This includes canned meats, mac and cheese, canned fruits and vegetables, as well as toiletries. Your donations are greatly appreciated. photo courtesy of Leesa Hindman
Apollo is a well-known rescue in our area and they have just recently lost their main dog food source. If you are able and willing to donate bags of Purina One and Purina Pro Plan, it is greatly appreciated. They are also in need of flea collars for dogs. Drop off at Apollo or visit their website and click on donate, www.ApolloSupportAndRescue.org.
INSIDE EDUCATION
CONGRATS, CLASS OF 2020!
Tues., May 26 | 11am & 7 pm | Texas Motor Speedway 3545 Lone Star Circle • Fort Worth, TX 76177 Northwest ISD will host graduation ceremonies at Texas Motor Speedway. To ensure all health precautions are met, family and friends will remain in their vehicles while parked on the TMS infield and watch the broadcasted event from the 12-story-tall video board. Byron Nelson will be observed at 11am and Northwest will be at 7pm.
10 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
NORTHWEST ISD ELECTION DAY POSTPONED The Northwest ISD Election Day has been moved due to the COVID-19 stay-in-shelter order. The original day was May 2nd, but has been postponed to November 3rd. To stay up-to-date on the Bond 2020 package, visit NISDTXBond.org.
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SUGAR COOKIE KITS
JUSTIN COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS
Every Tuesday | 4 - 6pm | Justin Community Food Pantry 405 3rd St. • Justin, TX 76247 Due to the affects of COVID-19, more families have been in need of food assistance. If you are able and willing to donate, many local food pantries are looking for more non-perishables. This includes canned meats, cereal, peanut butter and jelly, canned fruits and vegetables, as well as diapers. Your donations are greatly appreciated.
Looking for something fun to do at home with the kids? Try a sugar cookie kit! Sharayah offers a kit that includes fresh baked themed sugar cookies, 3 Royal Icing colors, and 3 bags of sprinkles. Try a “Bored in the House” themed kit, or Spring cookies. Boxes start at $20 and can be ordered through Facebook, www.Facebook.com/SharayahAubrey. photo courtesy of Sharayah Clementz
SCHOOL SUPPLY PACKS REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Don’t forget to register your child for the upcoming school year! Northwest ISD uses the PowerSchool Registration online enrollment service, returning students will receive an email to complete the process. New to NISD can go to, www.NISDTX.org/enrollment.
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Educational Products, Inc. (EPI) school packs for the 2020-2021 are ready to be ordered. Save money and time by ordering now. Packs are $55 and can be ordered at, www.EducationalProducts. com/ShopPacks. Now through June 14.
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 11
Living In
ISOLATION by Jean Eisenmann | photo courtesy of Jean Eisenmann
W
e Texans are a social bunch. It’s in our DNA to mix and mingle, gather and party, and use any excuse to have a good ol’ time...together. When differing circumstances – from measles to a veritable pandemic – arise that force us to isolate ourselves from socialization we don’t fare too well. I’m just one example.
Normally I’m not a dessert lover, but apparently during social isolation I become a sweets Floozie. Good to know. 12 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
Shopping Before the Covid-19 pandemic I was one of those women who always found an excuse to shop. Nearly every day. Just the veritable smell of a retail store was uplifting; a mix of shoe suede, purse leather, fabrics, and female bonding. Why can’t they come out with an air freshener comparable to that? Who needs that vanilla cookie scent? ...Okay, there’s room for both. The female bonding between shoppers over a pair of ‘new arrival’ shoes was my nourishment. Now I’m starving. Speaking of starving... Eating In I don’t know about you, but during these days of isolation I’m eating my feelings. Did you know there are 25 varieties of Oreos? I’m on number 11. For three years I had all but given up bread, rice and potatoes and ate pretty healthy. A pandemic hits and I’m on a feeding frenzy. Normally I’m not a dessert lover, but apparently during social isolation I become a sweets Floozie. Good to know. The key items visible from all directions in a grocery store are junk food. My old friends from Frito-Lay missed me all these years (I swear I heard them call me from Aisle 15), and all those foot-long loaves of tanned bread – crusty on the outside but soft and warm within – made me salivate. Thank goodness for the bandana covering my mouth. It’ll come out in the wash. www.35WestMagazine.com
Leaving the House I placed my keys in a bell jar by the front door to keep them from getting dusty. Sometimes I get into my car that’s parked in the garage, sit in the driver’s seat and just start the engine. Vroom Vroom, I’m tooling along, deciding in my mind where to stop first. A grocery store is not foremost on my list. I’ve
seen enough of those lately. It’s so low on my travel agenda that it’s listed after Blockbuster, and they’re not even around anymore. The other day, while in the middle of my “travels,” I remembered that I used to play this same game. With my father’s car when I was 12! Physical Maintenance Okay, some say I’m high maintenance. What’s wrong with having something on your body either plucked, trimmed, colored, glued, waxed or polished about every other week? These days I’m forced to do things to myself that I haven’t done since college. Like pedicures. You thought I was going to say something else, didn’t you? My fingernails have whittled down to uneven stubs, so I have a better chance of picking up a paper clip with my teeth. Now I can relate to how a declawed cat feels. So I visited the nail care
I fantasize about the emotional reunion once my arms wrap around my chosen TP.
section of a drug store, thinking I would try some press-on nails that were already painted and ready for some paper clip action. The shelves were nearly empty, so everybody had the same brilliant idea that they stole from me. I had my choice between devil red or silver with each nail covered in rhinestones. I decided that I really don’t have an immediate need to use paper clips just now, but I’m thinking about adopting a cat. Toilet Paper The toilet tissue shortage has left me wiped. Counting out squares of the stuff
This isolation period will pass, and hopefully we all will emerge with lessons learned. I will continue to be high maintenance, shop ‘til I drop, love (but refrain from) junk food, and believe one of life’s pleasures is dining out with friends. But the new part of me will have a much deeper sense of gratitude for even the smallest things that I used to take for granted...with one exception. I will no longer covet toilet paper.
has become a pastime. It used to be golf. And then there’s the tug of war game, when the family is down to one role and the house has three bathrooms. Can I count that as a workout? I fantasize about the emotional reunion once my arms wrap around my chosen TP. Like the blue bears in the commercial I envision myself caressing the roll, sighing contentedly over the softness as soothing music plays. Is this the
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same stuff I used to throw onto the back seat, tear open once home and shove into the cabinet under the bathroom sink?
photographed above is Jean Eisenmann
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 13
SHERIFF’S W I T H
S H E R I F F
T R A C Y
WE ARE ALL ESSENTIAL
W
e are all essential! We find ourselves in uncharted scary times. The COVID-19 virus is proving to be a challenging adversary for all of us. Law Enforcement during this time is being presented with difficulties never experienced in most of our lifetimes. Those of us responsible for detention facilities are certainly concerned. We are not only responsible for the well-being of those we lead but with the health and safety of inmates in our care.
We are then asked to identify “essential
what is going on in the world outside our
essential” home. It doesn’t take long to
schools closed, and friends worried about
personnel” and send those deemed “nonunderstand that everyone here is essential to maintaining a successful operation.
It gives you an opportunity to really look
at many different areas of your operation and get a much clearer picture of how
walls. Watching businesses being closed, jobs. I’ve seen communities affected in ways I probably never really thought
HIRING If you are interested in a career in Law Enforcement, join our family and be a part of a great organization. Detention Officer I positions start at $38,752.00 per year. Visit our website to apply. www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/dentoncounty
“community” really means.
I’m witnessing heartache and triumph.
not just the commissioned people in the
do and, at the same time, the best. I’m
contributions of everyone.
to their name and uphold the oath they
It has given me an opportunity to evaluate
I’m seeing some of the worst man can
organization but also the sacrifices and
watching as our public servants live up have sworn.
employee, and this tragedy has given
This virus will not defeat us; we will
I then applied this to my observations of
many other challenges. My hope is we will
me a much better picture of their worth.
WE ARE
of. I’m getting a better idea of what
each individual contributes to your team.
I have always known the value of each
M U R P H R E E
endure and learn from it as we have so
come out on the other side of this better for having gone through it. I hope as Americans that we end up with a clear understanding that if we are to maintain our way of life and live our American dream, we must realize that we are all essential. Take care of yourself, take care of your family, and take care of each other!
940.349.1600 | 127 N. WOODROW LN., STE. 300 • DENTON, TX 76205 | DENTONCOUNTY.COM/DEPARTMENTS/SHERIFF.ASPX 14 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
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DEALING WITH
THE DELAY T
by Dr. Matt Artho, Owner of Country Lakes Family Dental
his year has been a great trial for our country and communities as we all individually made sacrifices for each other. As we approach Memorial Day, I would like to extend my gratitude for all those who together make great sacrifices for our freedom. With the recent events, it is likely that many faced the situation of delaying their dental care. Our current understanding in dentistry and healthcare in general is that a preventative approach is the best approach, as most dental disease does not improve but only worsens over time. When faced with having to put off dental care, it is even more crucial to address concerns earlier than later, and your dentist will appreciate your proactiveness. Why the concern? Let’s consider the progression of dental disease. When it
comes to tooth decay, it is first observed through routine exams in what is considered incipient decay; one of the few instances that can be reversed with good habits and fluoride use. If the decay spreads within the tooth, it requires repair with a filling. At the point where the decay spreads to the point of pain, this could indicate it has contacted the pulp or nerve of the tooth. At this point, debridement of the pulp is necessary to remove the bacteria during a root canal procedure. Left unchecked further, the tooth could deteriorate beyond restorability, requiring an extraction, or worse, an oral infection could spread from the tooth to the bone
Dentistry: Ask The Expert
causing facial swelling, nerve damage, airway obstruction, and systemic complications due to bacterial spread through the body. Scary, right? Though not my intent to sound an alarm, this is typically your dentist’s concern when attempting to encourage a proactive approach. A similar “horror story” can be true for gum disease, as well. Plaque along the gum line results in gingivitis that can be alleviated with a routine cleaning. In periodontitis, bacteria that finds its way beneath the gums requires a deeper cleaning. Unchecked, this bacteria can cause inflammation and infection, leading to bone loss around the tooth and eventually tooth loss, not to mention potential systemic diseases from bacteria that manages its way into the bloodstream. Though frightening tales, indeed, these are real biological responses to oral disease that are best prevented in early stages. The good news is, there are treatments to treat these anomalies at all stages. So, if you have put off your dental care, get back in touch with your dentist knowing they will be waiting with open arms. Happy Smiling!
940.455.7645 | COUNTRYLAKESDENTAL.COM | 74 MCMAKIN RD., STE. 200 • BARTONVILLE, TX 76226
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 15
If You Can
THINK IT, We Can
BUILD IT by Steve Gamel | photography by Nick Allen Photography (naphoto307.com)
214.770.7227 | BOWENPOOLSLLC.COM PLASTERING
16 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
TILE REPAIRS
COPING REPAIRS
HANDRAILS
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T
here are plenty of people out there who don’t have a pool and wish they did. But we’re willing to bet there are just as many who look at what they do have and aren’t as inspired by it as they once were. Sound familiar? Don’t get us wrong — the pool looked amazing 10 years ago. It had all the bells and whistles and was likely the envy of the neighborhood.
But now its features, shape, and style
changing and upsizing plumbing to
your friends have down the street.
in tanning ledges, and even changing
seem outdated in comparison to the oasis Homeowners should never be stuck with
what they have or don’t have — especially when it comes to a pool. If you’re ready to create that backyard getaway or add
oomph to what you’ve got, the sky’s the limit with one call to Bowen Pools.
“It’s important to me that no one feels
like they are stuck with the same footprint they have now,” owner Chris Bowen said. “If you need a pool, or you’re not happy with what you’ve got, we can do it. We’re not afraid to think outside the
box. We’ll put an entire
team together to handle projects from start to finish.”
Word is spreading that this family-owned and
operated pool company has already separated itself as a leader in
accommodate new water features, adding the shape of pools. On new construction,
Chris and his team have a knack for taking the smallest idea and making it larger
a lot considering the pool industry
is firing on all cylinders and is highlighted by big names that have been around for decades.
end materials no matter the size of the
caught up with him, he was quick to
your plumbing needs.
big break when the owner of the pool
job, and ensure proper hydraulics for all
share a story about how he got his first
“We’re really trying to let people know how good we are on the construction
and renovation side of pools,” Chris said.
pool hired him as a service technician.
Chris worked there for five years cleaning pools, all while continuing to dream big
able to give our clients
Unfortunately, that journey took a slight
enjoy, and I love being
of one day owning his own company.
what they’ve wanted for
detour when Chris was injured on the job
so long. We are not just a coping, tile, and plaster
company. We can do so much more.”
With that type of attitude, it’s no surprise residents
all over Denton County are
picking Bowen Pools for all their pool needs. Bowen
Pools also specializes in spas, covered
patios, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and landscaping. If there’s a problem with
a construction job or a project requires
extra attention, Chris makes you feel like his only customer.
If I’m not there, it is not difficult to get
renovations. That means everything from
company that was remodeling his parents’
“It’s what I personally
with their motto of quality over quantity. need, but they love the challenge of
business as far back as he can remember his younger days. When Lantana Living
“I’m also the project manager for
Not only can they handle any construction
Chris has wanted to be in the pool
shells, offer in-floor cleaning, use higher-
But to Bowen Pools’ credit, they are hitting those bigger companies where it hurts
a project too big for us.”
and was even a lifeguard for four years in
pool construction and
years of being in business. That’s saying
systems on all of our pools. There isn’t
than life. They waterproof all concrete
“IT’S IMPORTANT TO ME THAT NO ONE FEELS LIKE THEY ARE STUCK WITH THE SAME FOOTPRINT THEY HAVE NOW...”
renovation services after just two
pools, and doing in-floor cleaning
new construction. So I’m at every job.
me out there to take a look,” Chris said. “We are following codes stringently,
offering different packages for custom
and couldn’t work.
“I took some time off and sold health
insurance for a year and a half. I wasn’t
making a lot of money, so I turned to my wife one day and said, ‘I think I’m going to quit my job and go back to cleaning pools. I always wanted to start my own company, so now is as good a time as
any,’” Chris said. He and Kourtney now have a 10-week-old daughter named
Emerson. “Kourtney was nervous at first, but it all worked out.”
Bottom line, the folks at Bowen Pools never stop learning their craft and
would like to think their expertise in new construction and renovations is right up
there with the best of them. All you have to do is pick up the phone.
“People want to enjoy their backyard. We want to give them that.”
3341 LONG PRAIRIE RD. • FLOWER MOUND, TX 75028 OTHER GENERAL SWIMMING POOL REPAIRS
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ADDITIONS (Spas, Tanning Ledge, Waterfalls, etc.)
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 17
COVID-19
CONTINUES by Precinct 4 Commissioner Dianne Edmondson photo courtesy by Commissioner Dianne Edmondson
PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS FIGHT COVID-19 It warms my heart each time I hear about a mattress firm making face masks, or car manufacturers retooled to produce ventilators, enterprising college students designing/making face shields, the hundreds of women who are stitching face masks for medical workers and first responders, and many others. These unique and productive privatepublic partnerships give our country its best chance to beat this pandemic --together. Government alone cannot do it. The CDC is the first line of defense against such an enemy, but they are no longer the only ones working on a vaccine: At last count, there were at least a dozen private laboratories whose researchers are feverishly seeking the inoculation to prevent future COVID-19 infections.
Increased testing has been called for, and once again, our private sector jumped into action, answering that call. Abbott Labs has developed (and the FDA has approved) a 15-minute test for COVID-19 virus which is currently in production and quickly will be rolled out across the country. Other labs are also developing the quicker tests.
CLINICAL TRIALS IN PROCESS FOR POSSIBLE COVID-19 TREATMENT The Food and Drug Administration has announced that the Mayo Clinic will lead a clinical trial initiative to treat COVID-19 patients with plasma from someone who recovered from it, utilizing the antibodies produced by the recovered patient to neutralize the virus or cause an immune response in the sick patient. This trial test now has more than 100 sites working on
implementing convalescent plasma as a possible COVID-19 treatment. The Mayo Clinic also is focusing on determining how long that immunity lasts, thus targeting populations who can safely go back to work. The National Institutes of Health announced a clinical trial of hydroxychloroquine as a potential therapy for COVID-19 to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine for the treatment in adult patients who have been hospitalized. Some 140 other treatment drugs are being tested around the globe, including ones from America’s Pfizer and Gilead companies. Here in Denton County, our testing numbers are up (third highest per capita testing in Texas), resulting in more COVID-19 cases being discovered. Most cases do not require hospitalization, but are quarantined at home. Your County Commissioners are following Governor Abbott’s lead in dealing with this crisis, and anticipate soon allowing our economy and our lives to return to normal. Please follow current data and all that our County is doing on our special website: https://covid19. dentoncounty.gov/ Yes, these are tumultuous times. But with these joint efforts, coupled with fervent prayer, America will defeat COVID-19. Thank you for what you individually are doing to defeat our invisible enemy.
ToreceiveanewslettercontactDianneEdmondsonatDianne.Edmondson@dentoncounty.comORCALLAT972.434.3960. 18 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
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Business Spotlight
Jay Marks Real Estate:
THE NICEST GUY
NOMINATE US! June10
July 8
IN TOWN by Steve Gamel
K photo courtesy of Jay Marks Real Estate
nown as a problem-solver, a community promoter and someone who thrives on building relationships, Jay Marks is a man that makes things happen. In fact, he is known as “Mr. Make It Happen.” And when you’re in the market for real estate, that is exactly the kind of person you want helping you maneuver through the buying and selling process. With more than 25 years of real estate experience and his own boutique brokerage, Jay understands that every transaction is unique and has its challenges, and he has built a team that understands this as well.
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virtual services they have been utilizing for years to help their clients buy and sell real estate. This includes virtual open houses, virtual showings, remote closings, and online appointments.
Jay’s passion for helping others doesn’t stop with his clients. He enjoys giving
back and being active in the community. He strives to bring people together and
build relationships through
By raising awareness of the amazing things going on right in our community, Jay loves that he is able to bring people together to support each other.
“I have assembled a team of top-tier professionals who are each leaders in their specialized role of the sales process to make the experience as seamless as possible for our clients,” Jay said.
972.724.2540 JayMarksRealEstate.com jay@jaymarksrealestate.com 1013 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. 102 Flower Mound, TX 75022
were quickly able to rely on and offer the
This includes making changes to their internal processes to best serve their clients when things like a COVID-19 pandemic come into the picture. When quarantine hit right at the start of “busy season” for real estate, Jay and his team
both his Foodie Friday
DFW and Denton County
Giving video series, where he tells the stories of and
brings awareness to local businesses and nonprofit organizations. By raising
awareness of the amazing things going on right in
our community, Jay loves
that he is able to bring people together to support each other.
When it comes to real estate, Jay and his
team believe that each client matters and
every home matters. And at the end of the
day, he also wants to be known for making a difference in the community where he lives and works. Jay said, “I want to be
known as the nicest guy in town who also happens to sell a lot of real estate.”
MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 19
CONTINUES
SUPPORT by Brooke Ezzo
T
logo courtesy of Alyssa Edstrom
he Northwest ISD Education Foundation (NEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that works directly with the district and communities to create programs that engage students and provide resources to enable students and teachers to achieve their highest potential. Tax dollars for a school district mainly
cover the basics. Education foundations
Education foundations come in to further support and serve the needs of the district on a more personal level. 20 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
come in to further support and serve the needs of the district on a more personal level. NEF teams up with community
partners to ensure that each student and
teacher has what is needed to confidently navigate their future.
Alyssa Edstrom, NEF’s Community
Relations Specialist, said the foundation
has several roles in the district. Their main programs include grants for teachers,
which support classrooms and educational opportunities like creative projects.
Another priority is student scholarships.
all programs to a district level —
thus taking away the responsibility of each campus to ensure health safety district-wide.
Initiatives like the Snack Pack Program
that is normally at a campus level were brought to one centralized location.
As a result, there was a lot of planning
that had to be done to keep the students
When the coronavirus pandemic started,
from going without. Alyssa teamed up with
to close, Alyssa and leadership teams
and Marketing Specialist with Northwest
and Governor Abbott encouraged schools
Hailee Fojtasek, Community Engagement
within the district got together to redirect
ISD Partners in Education, to make sure
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the Snack Pack Program continued during this time.
were purchased for students across
books into schools. We’ve done STEM
Another one of Hailee’s roles in the district is bringing in community partnerships. These partnerships include local businesses and faith-based organizations that are close to each campus. These businesses and organizations adopt a campus to help when there is a need.
“Reading is so critical, especially at an
These grants are given during the school
wanted to make sure that not only did
are enhanced.
Some of these partnerships include Tanger Outlets, EECU Credit Union, Pinnacle Bank, Haslet Community Outreach, and many more. They donate funds to the foundation to ensure that students are being fed and have additional school supplies such as gradelevel reading books and even hygiene products. Alyssa said over 1,200 books
with in-home learning, NEF created the
his staff to make sure we understand what
to partner with the foundation. Behind the
supporting those programs.”
the district.
elementary level,” Alyssa said. “We really these students have basic school supplies but to make sure they are continuing to read and continuing to learn.”
projects, robotics kits, and much more.” year to make sure learning experiences
“Our goal is to make sure we are aligning with the district’s priorities to support
students and teachers,” Alyssa said. “We
With the district finishing out the year
meet with Superintendent Dr. Warren and
iNvest2Serve initiative as a way for people
the district is focusing on and that we are
scenes, the foundation goes above and
beyond to support students and teachers.
NEF is made up of board members, an
advisory board, and community members.
“Our grant program always covers
While we are all feeling the effects of the
“We do things like literacy by getting
that NEF and their partners have not quit
ideas teachers submit to us,” Alyssa said.
“Our goal is to make sure we are aligning with the district’s priorities to support students and teachers...”
pandemic, our community needs to know working, and they are shifting gears to
make sure that all students and teachers are provided for.
To find current opportunities to support
the Northwest ISD Education Foundation, visit www.NISDTX.org/Serve.
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 21
GRIEVEEND D
by Steve Gamel
OF SPRING SPORTS SEASON
enton County players, coaches, and fans were all holding out hope that somehow — someway — the coronavirus pandemic would not mark the end of the high school spring sports schedule for this school year. Even if they weren’t able to resume until May, or even June, at least they could salvage something from this year.
Sadly, those hopes were dashed last month when the University Interscholastic League announced that they were canceling everything for the remainder of the school year. The unprecedented move came mere hours after Gov. Greg Abbott announced that all Texas schools should remain closed to in-person learning. The spring sports schedule, which includes basketball, soccer, track and field, softball, baseball, and others, had been suspended since March 16.
The original plan was to reevaluate on May 4, but a final decision had to be made sooner. The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools also canceled the remainder of its 2019-20 athletics schedule. “It seems unfair that our Argyle baseball seniors don’t get the chance to lead us back to Austin,” Argyle baseball coach Ricky Griffin said in a heartfelt Twitter post on April 17. His team was hoping to win its third straight Class 4A state title but won’t get that chance. “I know it’s not the season they were hoping for, but each one of them has a special place in my heart. They have been a huge part of pushing this program to where it is. I love them.” Griffin wasn’t the only coach or player voicing their devastation — especially for the countless seniors who learned that they have competed for the last game as a high school athlete. “#COUGARNATION you’ll forever be my whole heart,” The Colony softball star Jayda Coleman said. “Argyle. Over the last four years, you gave me memories that’ll last a lifetime while allowing me to grow up,” Argyle senior Alex Gonzales said on Twitter. “Sad to see my senior year and my time in red and black end so soon. Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way. I’m grateful to call this amazing town home. “To our 13 seniors: Thank you for all you’ve given to our program,” the Guyer girls track and field Twitter account said in a statement. “We’re heartbroken for everything you didn’t get to finish. It’s been a joy to watch you wear a Guyer uniform with 22 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
pride over the past four years. We know you’re going to do great things! Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat!” The Hebron softball team agreed. “Lots of emotions with this announcement. Zeb, Casey, Ira, Nat, Sheridan and Dani, you may have played your last game in a Hebron uniform, but you will forever be a Hawk.” The UIL said in a news release that it had been working on scenarios to resume sporting events. But without schools in session, activities would have to follow suit. According to the Dallas Morning News, at least 10 other states’ high school sports governing bodies, including that of athletic hotbed California, had already canceled their remaining sports events for the 2019-20 school year by April 5. “Our highest priority during this challenging time is ensuring the health and safety of our students and communities and making progress in the containment of COVID-19 in Texas,” UIL executive director Charles Breithaupt said in a news release. “We are now turning our attention to the 2020-2021 school year.” www.35WestMagazine.com
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 23
Argyle Business
ASSOCIATION by Brooke Ezzo
SMALL GROUP SPONSORED BY THE TOWN TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
T
he importance of having a business association in our area is that it can create networking opportunities and raise awareness about our local businesses. An association can create resources for business owners and give them a platform to engage as our town continues to grow. Haley Pittman, EDC Marketing Technician, said the idea for a business association was brought up last year. Once she came on board this past November, she has been working with Interim Town Manager, Jeff Howell, and Director of Community Development, David Hawkins, to continue bringing it to fruition. The concept was to create a resource not quite like a chamber but a small group sponsored by the town to support local businesses, similar to the one that exists in Highland Village. “We met with the leaders of the Highland Village Business Association and got
24 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
OUR TOWN CONTINUES TO GROW
their input,” Haley said. “As well as some influential Argyle business owners and leaders in the community.” For a business owner, the opportunity to participate in a business association has many benefits. The ability to bounce around ideas and entrepreneurial advice is priceless. Long time business owners can share resources and teach others how to navigate expectations from the community. Associations hold special events for their members, giving them chances to meet with fellow peers. “At first, we had set out a launch plan that included a mixer event at the end of April,” Haley said. “Just as we were gearing up to announce and
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start promoting the Argyle Business Association (ABA), COVID-19 hit.” The impact of the virus has varied from business to business throughout the community. Although the plans for the ABA have been delayed, Haley said they have shifted gears to address the business owners’ needs in other ways. “We are working on an advertising campaign to support local businesses, since many of them have had to shut their doors or change their services
ADDRESS THE
BUSINESS OWNERS’ NEEDS during this time,” Haley said. “It has been wonderful to open up a line of communication with our business owners in a more centralized way.”
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Haley said the association is working hard to pick up right where it left off once officials are able to start planning for the official ABA launch. The goal is to make sure all business owners know the support from the town and community is there. “When we do, any business located within our town limits can join for free,” Haley said. “That means everyone from corporate offices to home-based businesses.” The Argyle Business Association will offer programming to connect local businesses with town officials, as well as network amongst themselves. “This means luncheons, coffee events, etc.,” Haley said. “In addition, we expect for the program to grow into a space for more communication and support between the town and our businesses.” Especially in the time we are in currently, and as businesses start to slowly reopen,
it is important for us to continue to support local. Until the official launch, Haley has created Argyle’s online business directory, and there is a form for business owners to join the ABA through the town’s website. Visit, www.ArgyleTX.com and find the directory under the Economic Development tab.
OPPORTUNITIES AND RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 25
LOCAL NEW
BUSINESS’S
REOPEN
OUTLAW BURGER AND BBQ - RESTAURANT 940.648.5808 111 W. 4th St. • Justin, TX 76247 Seating is every other table to practice social distancing, condiments and other items have been removed and available upon request. BECKS BEAUTY CO.- RE TAIL 817.791.0872 401 N. Sealy Ave. • Justin, TX 76247 Is currently open as a retail and plants shop. WISEGUYS PIZZERIA - RESTAURANT 682.237.2201 311 S. Oak St. • Roanoke, TX 76262
by Brooke Ezzo
A
s of May 1st, Governor Abbott’s plan to reopen parts of Texas has allowed some businesses, under new guidelines, to open their doors. Businesses like retail shops, restaurants, movie theaters, and malls. The second wave of openings will include barbershops and hair salons, bars, and gyms sometime around the middle of the month. Local businesses have been hard at work to comply with new rules and take the health of our community seriously. We have complied a small list of restaurants and shops and noted any changes they have made. Please continue to support and shop our local businesses.
TEXAS PATINA - BOUTIQUE 940.390.0268 401 N. Sealy Ave • Justin, TX 76247 Allowing five customers in the store at one time. Offering margaritas while you wait. COUNTRY FAUCET - WATER 940.648.5050 509 FM 156 • Justin, TX 76247 Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-4pm. Offering inside self-serve, one customer in the store at one time, and they sanitize after each customer.
26 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
Open at 25% capacity. Hand sanitizer stations set up, using disposable menus, and all staff to wear face masks FOSTERS SUSHI - RESTAURANT 682.237.7992 311 S. Oak St., Ste 100 Roanoke, TX 76262 VAULT COFFEE - COFFEE 817.400.4415 206 N. Oak St. Ste 130 Roanoke, TX 76262
JUSTIN ANIMAL HOSPITAL - HOSPITAL AND GROOMER 940.648.0328 9849 FM 156 • Justin, TX 76247
Open at 25% capacity. New hours are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8am - 3pm
Is continuing normal business hours but is offering “curbside service.” Grooming appointments get dropped off in back and veterinary patients use parking out front with numbered slots.
INZO ITALIAN KITCHEN RESTAURANT 817.890.4280 101 S. Oak St. • Roanoke, TX 76262 Limited seating, best to call for reservations.
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Travel: Ask The Expert
HAWAII A Paradise You Can’t Miss by Terri Guthrie
H
awaii is truly a unique paradise and a great destination for a family vacation! It consists of eight main islands: Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Niihau, Oahu, and the Big Island of Hawaii. It is the widest state from east to west, as it spreads across the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii, you need to add it to your bucket list. I would suggest starting with Oahu. It is a great island to begin your Hawaiian experience! Oahu is home to the state capital, Honolulu. Highlights of the city include the International Market Place, the dormant volcano, Diamond Head, and the crown of the city, Waikiki, a beautiful iconic beach with world class dining and nightlife. West of Honolulu is Pearl Harbor, site of the WWII’s 1941 bombing attack and home to the USS Arizona Memorial. On the southeast coast is Hanauma Bay, a marine embayment formed within a tuff ring. It is one of the most popular tourist
destinations on the Island and is spectacular for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Lyon Arboretum is a 200-acre botanical garden located at the upper end of Mānoa Valley. Much of the Arboretum’s botanical collection consists of a lowland tropical rainforest with native flowers, numerous trails, and lovely water features. It’s always fun trying to pronounce Hawaiian words. This alphabet consists only of 12 letters. In1822, it was adapted from the English alphabet by American missionaries who printed a Bible in the Hawaiian language. So make plans soon and enjoy our 50th state. Aloha!!!
FOLLOW TERRI ON INSTAGRAM @TRAVELWITHTERRI
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MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 27
Local Resident
ANSWERING THE CALL by Brooke Ezzo
courtesy of Dida Finch
A
fter receiving a phone call from her oldest daughter about the lack of masks at the hospital where she worked due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Dida started her research and hit the ground running.
Harvest resident Dida Finch is a self-taught seamstress. A few years back, she wanted to make Dorothy and Toto costumes, so she sat down and taught herself how to sew. Now, she does embroidery and alterations and has her own T-shirt business.
One way she learned her craft
was by deconstructing a scrub
cap, learning how to make the
pattern, and then sewing it back
together. She has been making
scrub caps for her daughter, Adair,
and those in the medical field for a few
months now. This superpower has come in handy since the day Adair called and asked if her mom could sew masks.
Dida’s Quick Action to Answer Her Daughter’s Call Started a Domino Effect “I reached out to several hospitals and
doctor offices to talk through what was
needed and what the CDC said was going to be okay,” Dida said. “Then I formulated
what mask, based on those specifications, was going to work and started sewing.” Dida said she has been nonstop ever
since. Once word was out that she was making masks, she almost instantly
started receiving large orders. She has been donating masks to local police 28 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
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departments, post offices, doctor offices, and essential workers.
“We have made donations to the
Children’s Hospital, non-profits, and Meals on Wheels,” Dida said. “We have had a
lot of nursing homes and rehabilitation centers reach out to us, as well.”
With the amount of orders coming in, Dida was going to need help. Luckily, a few
neighbors had reached out to see how they
could assist her. One neighbor came up with the idea to start a Facebook group to keep messages and orders all in one place. And the Harvest Mask Makers began.
Dida’s quick action to answer her
daughter’s call started a domino effect of
others wanting to get involved. Within the Harvest Mask Makers group, they have
groups sewing masks in Denton, Flower
Mound, Coppell, and Colleyville. It is like a large assembly line.
“We have people running to get masks,
people are cutting, people are sewing, and www.35WestMagazine.com
Selflessly Donating Masks, and as of Early May, The Group Has Made Over 8,600 Masks! people are dropping off materials,” Dida said. “I have kits of 10 for people to pick up to sew and materials for others to cut.” The masks being made for frontline and essential workers are sewn together using 100% cotton. They have two layers, and one layer open for a filter. They can be put on by elastic bands or tied around the head. The involvement from the community has been a huge help and very humbling at the same time. Dida said it isn’t just her generation that has stepped up but teenagers who are also recognizing the need and lending a helping hand. Dida’s teenage daughter, Reigha, and several others sew about 50 masks a day. She said it’s incredible to see selflessness from everyone involved. “Our country is going through this
devastating time, but it’s about more than just one person,” Dida said. “I feel like we have become desensitized, and we forget how these rising numbers really affect our communities, our churches, and states.” Dida said that for her, it is about helping someone and keeping others healthy. She believes her neighborhood, Harvest, is like a huge family. And the sense of community has been heightened even more. “Hopefully this causes the country to get closer,” Dida said. “Hopefully, it brings people together to help others.” The Harvest Mask Makers are selflessly donating masks, and as of early May, the group has made over 8,600 masks! If you would like to donate, or learn how to make a mask, visit www.Facebook. com/CDFinch4. MAY 2020 | 35 WEST | 29
A PICTURE
IS WORTH A
THOUSAND WORDS
can look at the same thing and capture it completely different with a different message.” — Chris Rusanowsky,
www.ChrisRusanowsky.com
HARVEST STAYS HOME
by Brooke Ezzo
B
usinesses have closed, students are finishing the remainder of the year at home, jobs have been lost, and there is a virus floating around that we haven’t fully figured out yet. Despite it all, there has been an outpouring of hope and faith by communities around the nation. Two local residents have decided to take their talents to the streets and bring to life the uniqueness of perspective. We are all dealing with this pandemic differently, but together. These photographers have figured out a creative way to allow their neighbors to tell their own stories, visually. THE PANDEMIC PROJECT
focus has been on people who suffer, from loneliness and hardship but come out of it with strong resilience and creativity.” “When the pandemic started I was losing jobs and assignments I had been working on with no sight of them coming back. I decided there were two ways I could handle this. I could start developing anxiety and depression and get caught up in what I have lost, or I can try to use this as a way to be creative.”
Canyon Falls resident Chris Rusanowsky has been a photographer for 13 years, working as a photojournalist and wedding photographer. His passion for photography comes from his love of telling stories.
“I reached out to my neighbors on our neighborhood Facebook page and told them I wanted to capture an editorialized portrait of their family in front of their home. They could dress any way they wanted, they would have to stand 6-feet apart to symbolize social distancing, and have a blank stare away from the camera to show the question of, ‘what’s going to happen next.’ I asked each family to answer two questions; how has the pandemic benefitted them and how has it affected them.”
“For me, photography is a tool for communication. I am telling stories of other people. What I try to do through my work in telling stories is to bring awareness and inspire people. Most of my
“This project wasn’t about money, it was more about doing something creative during this time and allowing people to read about their neighbors stories. This is what I love about art. Two people
30 | 35 WEST | MAY 2020
Harvest Resident, Cortney Lang is a photographer who specializes in newborn and family photography. When she realized that this time in our lives would likely go down in history, she wanted to document what it was like to show future generations. “I started a Facebook group, and a friend helped me organize the neighborhood. I worked with the HOA and local police department to make sure I was following all health and safety guidelines. I stayed in my car (actually on top it), and the residents stayed on their porch.” “The concept was to give the families something to look back on. Even though this year will never be forgotten, it is a time where these families could get creative, be together, and be apart of visual history. The story is different for everyone that is what makes this so unique. Each family did what they wanted and how they wanted to remember this time in quarantine. Every family had a different interpretation and different journey. It was amazing to watch it unfold.” — Cortney Lang,
www.BabiesAndBrands. Pixieset.com/
HarvestStaysHome
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