Argyle Living Magazine - FEB 2015 by Murray Media Group

February 2015 - Premier Issue

Epilepsy Awareness Local Child Gets Community Support

UIL Lone Star Cup Argyle’s Got Attitude!

Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch

Area Dentist and Family Proud to Call Argyle Home

We’ll Love Them The Way You Do! Always Supervised Play • Individual & Small Classes • Luxury Kennels • Certified Doggie First Aid & CPR

5 3

Outdoor Play Areas Indoor Play Areas

Best Groomers in Town! Open 7 Days a Week

972.724.2157

caninecourtyard.com

3209 Justin Rd. • Flower Mound, TX 75028

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 3

Runyonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eagles Nest EAGLES/WARRIORS SIGNING DAY!

Featured Stories and News 14

Pg 14

L.C. Solar Car

Meet The Arthos Changing American Family L.C. Girl’s Basketball Scott Witten at L.C. Argyle ISD Unrivaled Customer Service LI

Epilepsy Awareness

M AG A

E’

R’S ITO K ED PIC 2015

Lone Star Cup

ZIN

Want to feature your school’s or organization’s event? Contact us at artwork@lantanaliving.com

18 22 25 26 27 30 33

ADHD Quick Facts

11 13

Visit ArgyleTX.com for more community events!

6 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Inside Education

Families from the surrounding communities are invited to Liberty Christian’s spring musical, “Annie Get Your Gun,” a show that will include students of all ages. Thur Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. Fri Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. Sat Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.; Sun Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets for the show are $10 and may be purchased at the door or online at libertychristian. com/theatre. The performances will be held at Liberty Christian School, located at 1301 S. Hwy. 377 in Argyle.

ARGY LE

Argyle Community Events

RE C

Welcome to Argyle Living It is our pleasure to welcome you to Argyle Living Magazine. Inside the pages you will find a variety of family and community articles highlighting life in your neighborhood. Featuring family-friendly, feel-good content with high visual appeal, Argyle Living will bring home the stories of the men, women, children and businesses which you see every day in your life. As parents of four active children and long term residents of Denton County, we are active in our own community so we know what it means to be able to get to know your neighbors and surroundings, and how important it is to enjoy the place which you have chosen to live your life. Staying in touch with community enhances self-esteem, confidence, and creates a sense of ‘family’ that not all neighborhoods are blessed to experience. Being involved where you live enhances your life in ways you don’t realize until you find a place like ours

where you can really feel ‘at home’. Residents of Argyle, Canyon Falls, Harvest and Robson Ranch can look forward to receiving Argyle Living magazine the third weekend of each month. We want you to feel as though it is your magazine. Readers will find lots of local events and news, plus sections like Community Events, Resident Spotlights, Local Business Spotlights, School News, Community Sports, Argyle Exclusive News and more. Argyle Living would not be possible without the support of our advertisers. In their efforts to support our local community and its residents we are able to bring you this publication, so please offer them your support as you shop for products and services in the area. Let them know that you saw them in Argyle Living. We welcome your feedback and story ideas so please send them to me at Kelly@LantanaLiving.com.

Happy Reading, Publisher & Editor

Publisher & Editor Scott & Kelly Murray Administration Managing Editor Jana Melton

Sub-Editor

Kristin Maurer

Contributors Eric Williams Mark Miller Steve Gamel

Advertising

Kathryn Flores kathryn@lantanaliving.com Kelly Murray kelly@lantanaliving.com

Production Graphic Designers Liz Wallace Zulma Martinez Stephanie Hansen Whitney Hill

Photography

Robert Payne (214) 437-9568 robertpaynephotography.com Scott Young (972) 899-3536 ScottYoungPhoto.com

Letters

Argyle Living 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 (214) 734-=5783 or email kathryn@lantanaliving.com Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100 Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022 Argyle Living is published monthly by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Argyle Living 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. © 2015 Murray Media Group

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 7

May 9 Election Will Decide Two Spots on Argyle ISD Two positions on the Argyle Independent School District board of trustees will be decided in the May 9 general elections. President Eric Fields and Board Vice President Spencer Jefferies are up for re-election. The deadline to file for the positions is Feb. 27 at 5 p.m.

Liberty Christian’s Holland Chosen for Key Club Honor Liberty Christian Academy junior Glory Holland was recently elected the next lieutenant governor for Division 8 of the Texas-Oklahoma District of Key Club International. Currently president of Liberty’s Key Club, Holland was the group’s editor her sophomore year. Liberty’s Key Club is sponsored by the Denton Breakfast Kiwanis Club and has more than 60 members. “I am so pleased and proud that Glory decided to take her commitment to service and the Key Club to the next level,” said Liberty Christian sponsor and teacher Kathy Hall. “She joins a proud tradition of Liberty Christian lieutenant governors, following in the footsteps of Haylee Smith (2012–2013) and Michael King (2013–2014).” In her new role that begins in April, Holland will supervise Key Clubs at nine North Texas and Oklahoma high schools including Liberty Christian, Denton, Durant, Gainesville, Sherman, Ryan, Guyer, Decatur, and Krum. During her one-year term, Holland’ duties will include visiting clubs, holding monthly presidential council meetings with local club officers for communication and training. She also will attend district board meetings, serve on district committees, encourage service through planning and implementing of a divisional project, publish monthly newsletters, and serve as a liaison between local clubs and the district.

Argyle Horizon Students Share Chrome Presentation Argyle Middle School sixth grade students recently gave their fourth-grade peers a sneak peak into the world of Google Chrome books during a visit to Hilltop Elementary School. The event centered around a research project being conducted by both grades under the direction of Professor Kimberly Mack, a new Argyle ISD teacher of Horizon/GT 3-6. “Both the fourth and sixth grade Horizon students have been doing a similar research project,” 8 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Mack said. “They have researched an enigma in nature in Bermuda Triangle, pyramids, Marfa lights, Atlantis, Lost Colony of Roanoke.” After the presentations, the students gathered for pizza and shared stories about their experience.

extended those concepts to include students’ current study of Texas history. Animal ambassadors who joined Kleven included a ferret named Slinky, a barn owl named Thatcher, an alligator named Izod, a prairie dog named Rye, a opossum named Trashcan, and a kingsnake named Freckles.

“Critterman” Visits Liberty Christian’s Fourth-Grade Argyle Students Take Part Students in February in Challenge Day Activities

The professional, wildlife outreach educator named “Critterman” presented his Lone Star Junior Safari program to Liberty Christian Academy’s fourth-grade students Feb. 3 using his live “Animal Ambassadors” to spark students’ interest in learning. David Kleven, a graduate of America’s Teaching Zoo, houses more than 50 non-releasable animals who were orphaned, injured, surplus, or cast-off by previous owners. These animals now act as ambassadors for their species. “This unique presentation gave our students the opportunity to experience and learn about native Texas wildlife to help them develop an understanding and a healthy respect for the world around them,” said science teacher Amanda McGlothlin. Kleven’s presentation expanded on science concepts recently taught in students’ classrooms and

Members of the nationwide Challenge Day organization, which has served more than one million youth in 400 cities since 1987, visited the Argyle Independent School District the first week of February. Challenge Day provides youth and their communities with experiential workshops and programs that demonstrate the possibility of love and connection through the celebration of diversity, truth and full expression. Each of three days brought a different activity for Argyle middle and high school students. Among the issues the organization dealt with during its visit were gossip, judgments, teasing, harassment, isolation, stereotypes, racism, sexism, bullying, violence, and homophobia.

(. . . more Inside Education on page 12)

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 9

Upscale Home

Introducing the

Color of the Year!

he new color of the year...Seriously, how can it be that time again? The powers that be have made a decision that is suppose to impact every part of the world we live in for the upcoming year. The color that we will be seeing as a choice in what we wear, walk on, accessorize with, paint our walls, put on our windows, sit on with the color of our sofas, etc. has been chosen.

Well, I’m sure it will just blow your socks off if I revolt and just say “no” that I’m not “buying” into the latest choice. I mean every color deserves its time but give me something to celebrate. I thought we were supposed to be going lighter and not so heavy. The “trend” is to have a little more fun with our wares. How so with... Pantone’s 2015 Color of the Year: Marsala! According to the New Jersey-based Pantone Color Co., wine lovers will rejoice as Marsala is inspired by the fortified wine. The color “embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness.”

10 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

I don’t want to eat it or drink it. I need to make it look good in your home or office. Call it what you want but it’s a glorified “wine” color with a little brown in it, dressed up with a nice name that rolls off the tongue kind of pretentiously. With my southern accent I can make it work without my fingers directing you to the sample with bend back of the wrist and slight tilt up of the chin.

Pantone, the self-proclaimed color authority, continues to describe Marsala as a “hearty, yet stylish tone that is universally appealing. OK, enough, I’m a professional and can make anything look good right? Sure! Here’s what I see. Since it is such a rich, dark color use it as a backdrop or a contrast color. You could have a lighter, warmer contrast color on the wall and use the Marsala as your drapery color. I could definitely see an accent chair in Marsala or bedding pillows. What would I pair it with? For a fun look try turquoise or deep yellows and beige. Love it! I could see it with grays and as Pantone agrees pale

By Paula Kratohvil, Owner Complete Interior Solutions

blues, pinks and neutrals. Another color pallet could be Marsala with mustard gold, several different greens to choose from and amber and umber tones. Actually there are so many different pallets that would work with Marsala it would be rather easy to translate into fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings, and interiors and bring the color into your home or office. Maybe I was a little hard on Marsala. Stop by the studio or give us a call today and let’s explore how we can blend the 2015 color of the year into your home or office! We’d love to help with any decor projects you have now or plan in the future. Time to get to thinking them through!

Some Quick Facts About

Local Sponsored Content Advertisement

ADHD ttention, learning, and behavioral disorders make up a large number of office visits in a pediatric office. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a diagnosis that is becoming more and more prevalent with today’s youth. ADHD is continually being studied with the exact cause still unknown. ADHD is a multi-faceted condition extremely difficult to discuss in a 500word column. But maybe a few highlights will help some families recognize and find help for children who struggle with ADHD. Your pediatrician will determine whether your child has ADHD using standard guidelines developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. These diagnosis guidelines are specifically for children ages 4-18. It is difficult to diagnose ADHD in children younger than age 4 because these younger children change very rapidly. It also is more difficult to diagnose ADHD once a child becomes a teenager because of other compounding factors including puberty. There is no single test for ADHD. The process requires several steps and involves gathering a lot of information from multiple sources. You, your child, your child’s school, and other caregivers should be involved in assessing your child’s behavior.

The Following Guidelines are Used to Confirm a Diagnosis of ADHD:

• Symptoms (see chart below) occur in two or more settings, such as home, school, and social situations, and cause some impairment. • In a child age 4-17, six or more symptoms must be identified.

Rebecca D. Butler, M.D., FAAP

• Developmental disorder such as speech problems, motor problems, or a learning disability • Chronic illness being treated with a medication that may interfere with learning • Trouble seeing and/or hearing

• In a child age 17 and older, five or more symptoms must be identified.

• History of abuse

•

• Severe aggression

Symptoms significantly impair your child’s ability to function in some of the activities of daily life, such as schoolwork, relationships with you and siblings, relationships with friends, or the ability to function in groups such as sports teams.

• Symptoms start before the child reaches age 12. However, these may not be recognized as ADHD symptoms until a child is older. • Symptoms have continued for more than six months. Your pediatrician may refer your child to a pediatric sub-specialist or mental health clinician if there are concerns in one of the following areas: • Intellectual disability (mental retardation)

Symptom Inattention

Hyper Activity

Impulsivity

• Major anxiety or major depression

• Possible seizure disorder • Possible sleep disorder

If you are concerned about your child and the ability to learn and excel in school and life, contact your pediatrician for a full evaluation. Dr. Rebecca Butler is Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is proud to be a resident of Lantana and the owner of Lantana Pediatrics. For more information on Dr. Butler or to schedule an appointment, call 940-455-7200.

How a child with this symptom may behave Often has a hard time paying attention, daydreams Often does not seem to listen Is easily distracted from work or play Often does not seem to care about details, makes careless mistakes Frequently does not follow through on instructions or finish tasks Is disorganized Often forget things Frequently avoids doing things that require ongoing mental effort Is in constant motion, as if “driven by a motor” Cannot stay seated Frequently squirms and fidgets Talks too much Often runs, jumps and climbs when this is not permitted Cannot play quietly Frequently acts and speaks without thinking May run into the street without looking for traffic first Frequently has trouble taking turns Cannot wait for things Often calls out answers before the question is complete Frequently interrupts others

www.LanatanaPediatrics.com

74 McMakin Road Suite 100 Bartonville, TX 76226 FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 11

Public Hearing Slated at February Council Meeting The second of two public hearings on proposed amendments to the Argyle Comprehensive/ Future Land Use Plan will be conducted at the monthly meeting of the Argyle Town Council beginning at 6 p.m. Feb. 24 at Argyle Town Hall. This will follow the first public hearing conducted Feb. 3 by the Planning & Zoning Commission. A series of three question-andanswer sessions were held in January. Key points in the plan drafts include: • Transecting lines to follow property lines instead of organic boundaries featured with the current Future Land Use Plan. • Abolish the “Discouraged” category throughout all of transects. • Introduce a new transect, T3-A on the west side of the Union Pacific Railroad for exclusively single family residential. A “recommended” density of one unit per acre or “suitable” density of 1.25 units per acre is contemplated with significant open space requirements. All T3-A land uses must accommodate public trails along the railroad tracks with significant landscaping and buffering from the railroad track. • “Conservation” land use option available in the T1 transect, proposed to be added to the T2 transect to promote increased preservation of natural features and open space at the discretion of Planning & Zoning and Council. The T1 transect currently lists 10 acres per dwelling unit as “recommended” and 5 acres per dwelling unit as “suitable” with variances for conservation development at one dwelling unit per acre as an alternative option. The T2 transect currently lists 2.5 acres per dwelling unit as “recommended” with no other options. • Minor clean up of areas to the Future Land Use Plan consistent with current residentially-developed areas.

Deadline Fast Approaching for 2015 General Election Argyle citizens considering running for public office in 2015 have until Feb. 27 at 5 p.m. to file for those spots. The May 9 general election will include voting for Places 2 and 4 on the Argyle Town Council 12 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

and for mayor. Kay Teer and Jay Haynes currently hold those council positions while Peggy Krueger currently serves as mayor and has indicated she will run again. Each position holder will serve for two years. Candidates interested in filing for these positions can obtain candidate packets at Argyle Town Hall weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

highest possible rating among 113 its peers in a

Argyle Maintenance Sales Tax Back on Ballot in May

access to information on how taxpayer money is

The Town of Argyle Street Maintenance Sales Tax expires in 2015 after the third four-year term of collection. Texas state law requires such a local option sales tax be renewed every four years. The one fourth of one percent sales tax can only be used for maintaining and repairing the town’s streets and roads. The Town of Argyle ballot in May will include the following proposition: “The re-authorization of the local sales and use tax in the Town of Argyle at the rate of one-fourth of one percent to continue providing revenue for maintenance and repair of municipal streets. The tax expires on the fourth anniversary of the date of this election unless the imposition of the tax is reauthorized.”

year-long audit about open government by the Dallas Morning News.

The county’s A rating came courtesy of

high marks for request best practices, request compliance, web customer service and online meeting notices. The study aimed to determine

how well agencies follow state laws guaranteeing spent and how well they follow best practices.

Additional criteria included customer service,

handling open record requests, processing

request costs, and if opinion was needed from the state attorney general.

Keep Argyle Beautiful Sets March 10 Monthly Meeting The next meeting of the Keep Argyle Beautiful

group will be held March 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Argyle Town Hall.

The meeting will be open to the public. For

more information, call 940-464-7273.

New Portal Offers Citizens Direct Link to Argyle Police The Argyle Police Department has unveiled a new “Police-To-Citizen” (P2C) Internet portal to provides easy public access to department information and daily activities. Residents also can access Denton County Sheriff ’s Office information through P2C. Among the features are real-time event bulletins, home/business security check registrations and missing person photos. Also available are slide shows of Denton County sex offenders and recent arrests. To access the latest happenings in your neighborhood, visit the “Search for Events” link to get maps and information about incidents, arrests, and accidents throughout Denton County. The P2C website can be accessed at p2c.dentoncounty.com

Denton County Earns “A” Rating for Transparency Denton County was among a small number of local governmental agencies to receive the

Continued from page 8

Argyle, Liberty Christian Preparing for Spring Breaks Students, faculty and staff of the Argyle Independent School district will be able to enjoy a week away their classrooms and schools during the annual spring break March 16-20. The break also comes between the end of the third quarter and start of the fourth quarter (March 23) of the 2014-15 school year. Liberty Christian Academy is off the same week but its spring break actually begins March 12 after early dismissals around the lunch hour. Classes in both systems resume March 23.

Liberty Christian Solar Car Club

Gearing for Australia!

By Mark Miller

o build a car powered solely by the rays of the sun could only be done by smart automotive industry engineers or teams of collegiate science students, right? That was true of the earliest such vehicles dating as far back as the mid-1950s. Since the early 1990s, however, there have been groups of equally-smart high school students who not only have designed and hand-built such machines, but raced them well beyond the friendly confines of their hometowns. One of those groups resides at Liberty Christian Academy which has had a Solar Car Club since the 2007-08 school year. Students there are now working on the second version of their fifth car with big plans on where to race next. Last year the LCS team finished third in Open Division of the annual American Solar Car Challenge race which ended in Austin. It was the school’s best finish ever and just eight miles short of second place. In 2013, the club traveled from Justin to Los Angeles and though not among the leaders, the Warriors covered more than 328 miles of official racing, including 71 on one hot day. The solar car rode the remaining miles in a special trailer. This year, Liberty Christian will skip the American Solar Car Challenge for the biggest race of them all – the World Solar Car Challenge in Australia in October. Under the direction of school sponsor Dr. Brent Dragoo, the dozen active students are working hard to get their car ready. “We’ll be spending the summer testing it and getting it as efficient as possible,” Dragoo said. The club, based at the nearby Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, started under Russ Sivey, a retired electrical engineer at Verizon who taught physics at LCS before Dragoo. The club’s

coordinator for the past six years after helping Sivey, Dragoo also teaches applied engineering. Dragoo said solar cars at the high school level date back to 1993 when Dr. Lehman Marks built the first prototype at the Winston School in Dallas. Marks’ goal was to inspire students in engineering and science while bringing more attention to alternative energy sources. The Open is the middle of three divisions in solar car racing above classic (“Dr. Marks said that’s the cheapest way to get into solar car racing,” Dragoo said) and below advanced (“no holds barred,”). Solar car racing doesn’t always come cheaply as attested by the new $16,000 hub master engine purchased by the LCS club in addition to expenses to travel to races. Companies like Co-Serv and Peterbilt help provide the funds as do parents and raffles like one being held in conjunction with Honda of Denton. The other challenge in going to Australia is the logistics and cost of getting the car there. Dragoo said the least expensive but slowest option is by boat which also can cause problems with corrosion. The other is by airplane which though more costly, can get the vehicle there quickly and well in advance of the race allowing more testing time.

Hill, Gabe Benzer, Cole Brolick, David Qai, and Henry Harshfield. Several in the club are members of the National Honor Society including Walker, who hopes to attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His backup schools are Stanford and California Polytechnic Institute. “He’s off the charts smart,” the elder Dragoo said. The club’s coordinator is confident his team can do whatever is necessary not only get to Australia but be in contention especially after the success of the club’s new 2014 car. “We never had to stop to change power cells,” Dragoo said. “We drove all day, every day 25 to 30 miles per hour. “We finally have our electrical system figured out. We’ve made a better fiberglass bearing to make it more aerodynamic.”

Dragoo said the club decided to take the trip Down Under this year because eight members are sophomores whose only chance to compete in the biennial race is this year. Since his team isn’t racing, Dragoo will serve as an American Solar Car Challenge judge. The only student who will not be able to make the trip after graduating from school this year is senior and Argyle resident Neiman Walker. The lone junior is Brian O’Connor and the only freshmen are Rodney Haire and Austin Hunt. The big sophomore classes features Clayton Odom, Brayden Dragoo, Cameron Mutis, Silas

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 13

Meet the Arthos

A Big Family with Big Hearts By Paul Colby

Area Dentist and Family Proud to Call Argyle Home

hat makes a town great are its residents, and what makes a great town are great residents. With the debut of Argyle Living we are enthusiastic to share the chronicles, achievements and passions of those individuals and families who make Argyle a great place. This month we share the journey of a family that made its way to Argyle and is happy to call it home, Matt and Leigh Ann Artho and their children, (take a deep breath) Reiter, Amber, Leah, Ella, Emma, Owen, and Canon. Those who know Matt know him best as Dr. Matt, owner and dentist of Country Lakes Family Dental, while Leigh Ann is recognized as nothing short of a supermom. Their story, though engaging, is one they both agree “could not have been planned.” Matt and Leigh Ann first met in 1998 in college while they were both attending Texas A&M University. At the time, Leigh Ann was a premedical student studying biology while Matt was working toward his electrical engineering degree. While Leigh Ann admits it was his smile that first charmed her, Matt recounts Leigh Ann’s studious demeanor.

The Artho children having fun. From left to right Reiter, Emma, Canon, Leah, Amber, Owen and Ella

14 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

“Most of our first dates were actually spent in the library,” he said. “I would ask ‘what are you doing tonight?’ and she would answer ‘going to the library.’ Our first year of dating doubled my GPA.” In 2002, following their graduation, Matt and Leigh Ann married. Matt accepted a job at Texas Instruments in Dallas and Leigh Ann received a scholarship to attend dental school at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. It was at this time life took an unexpected turn when they learned they would be expecting their first child. “At that point, my heart just was not in dental school,” Leigh Ann recalled. “Since I could remember, I always felt called to be a mom. I wanted that to be my focus. ” Leigh Ann withdrew from school and a desire for a more service-oriented vocation found Matt debating his own career. “Engineering gave me the challenge I wanted, but not the personal interaction,” he said. “Following Leigh Ann through school is where I found an interest in dentistry. It was a perfect blend of engineering and service. I’ve started calling it ‘enamel engineering.’ ” The next three years Matt worked on his prerequisites for dental school, and in the

meantime, the couple was blessed with son defense. We had such good zone coverage, we just kept going.” Reiter in 2004 and daughter Amber in 2006. “Not expecting to have a big family so quickly Matt was accepted to dental school in 2007 we learned right away where more surprises the blessings,” Leigh ensued. Faced with Ann added. “Even the challenge of though there is definitely raising a family, Matt more responsibility, we found himself able learned love grows with to accommodate each child.” his work schedule Growing up in the area, and maintain his Leigh Ann admits she engineering career always wanted to raise a while attending family in Argyle, so when school. He also took Matt found a chance to on an opportunity open a dental practice in to serve in the Texas Bartonville, he seized the Army National Pictured above are proud parents Leigh Ann & Matt Artho. Gail Young Photography opportunity and in 2012 Guard in 2008, the they bought a home there same year the couple and in 2013, they brought their son Canon into welcomed twins Leah and Ella. “So many things seemed to be happening at their new home. Since then, they have enrolled once, but as demanding as it was, we actually their children in school with Reiter attending found ourselves growing in faith,” Leigh Ann Argyle Intermediate and Amber, Ella, and said. “We started to learn to trust in God to Leah enrolled at Hilltop Elementary. Leigh get us through each day. The toughest times are Ann continues to stay at home and Matt has enjoyed his success as a local dentist winning what made us grow closer as a family.” They both attribute their growth in faith consecutive Best of Denton County awards in and love for family that led to the birth of their 2013 and 2014. When it comes to working and living in daughter Emma in 2010 before Matt graduated in 2011. He was accepted to an advanced dental Argyle, the two share many positive accounts. “By far, the best part about Argyle is the residency and graduated in 2012, but not before people,” Matt said. “Meeting new patients, the birth of son Owen. In growing their family, Matt jokes, “After whether they are from Argyle or new to the town, the twins, we lost any chance at man-to-man always makes my day. Everyone has such a great disposition, even when at a dental appointment. There is something about Argyle that harbors good people.” For Leigh Ann, not only is it the people, but the experiences. “We live in such a great neighborhood with great neighbors,” she said. “We were able to make good friends in no time. We’ve had great experiences like state football games, national nights out, and even block parties with our neighbors.” Excited to create new memories in Argyle, Leigh Ann concluded, “We are happy to be settled in a town our kids can call home, but we still live by the saying: ‘If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.’ ”

(940) 455-7645 74 McMakin Road #200, Bartonville, TX 76226 countrylakesdental.com FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 15

Real Estate

Argyle Real Estate Market 2014 Year in Review

he real estate market in Argyle showed significant growth in 2014. As we look at year-over-year performance and compare last year to 2013, we only will look at homes located in the Argyle Independent School District. Another key piece of data that will impact our view into the market is not all sold homes are reported. This can be homes sold without the assistance of a licensed real estate agent or homes built by a custom builder. However, these numbers will not dramatically impact the overall results. Argyle had a 61 percent increase in total homes sold for 2014 compared to 2013. New construction homes represented the largest gain with a 450-percent increase. The majority of this construction increase was in the new subdivision called Harvest located at I-35W and FM 407. The Oaks of Argyle and Argyle Town Village also had several new homes completed in 2014. Preowned home sales increased 14 percent in 2014 while at the same time the average sales price increased by 6 percent and average days on market decreased by 4 percent. The two main areas of strength in preowned sales for 2014 were homes in the $250,000-$499,000 price range and above $1 million with a 45 percent and 600 percent increase, respectively. New construction and model homes draw potential new residents to an area. Most of my clients are so enamored with Argyle from the moment they see it that they also want to see preowned properties. As we all know the estate properties and horse ranches in Argyle are beautiful. When we see strong sales in several key price points and home types it clearly indicates a broad base desire to call Argyle home. Overall this information points to a very healthy real estate market for Argyle. Demand across the board was strong and remains strong for preowned and new construction. The Argyle lifestyle, location, and fantastic school district continue to draw residents to this beautiful area. We also would expect the surrounding communities, such as Bartonville,

16 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

By Will Woods

Justin, Denton, etc, to experience a halo effect as people look for less costly options with a close vicinity to Argyle. It will be important as the I-35W corridor continues to experience rapid growth and expansion to maintain the lifestyle and feel that makes Argyle such a special place to live. Next month we will look at land and lot performance in Argyle as well as many things to consider when building a custom home on your own land.

(817)328-足1387 850 E State Highway 114 #100 Southlake, TX 76226 thewoodsgrouptx.com

2013

2014

Less Than $250k

$250k -$499k

$500k-$699k

$700k-$999k

Over $1m

Totals

Pre-Owned

New Construction

Pre-Owned

New Construction

Gardening

Trimming

The Whens and Whys of

ions, 214.735.1364

By PJ Kratohvil, Complete Exterior Solut

ebruary and March definitely can be considered wild-cards when it comes to trying to predict the weather. We never know if school is going to be shut down with a couple inches of ice on the ground or if it's going to be 70 degrees and sunny.

There are some things we can keep in mind either way when it comes to our plant maintenance to ensure we have our bases covered. So whether you're hunkered down trying to stay warm or sitting out on the patio enjoying a spring-like day, file it away and use it when you need it.

1) To revitalize a regularly-maintained shrub. When shrubs are continually trimmed the plant becomes very exhausted and barrel looking, flowers are continually being removed never giving the plant/shrub a chance to rest in its natural growth cycle.

Plant management is one of the most important topics when it comes to maintaining a healthy landscape. Natural pruning techniques promote the natural beauty of the shrubs, trees and ground covers in your landscape. The term "plant rejuvenation" means basically a HEAVY pruning of the plant that typically is performed through the late winter and early spring months.

2) To keep the plants contained within their budgeted space without having to continually trim them. Replacing plants in this situation also is an option but when you don't have to why would you?

Why perform a "pre-spring cut back?"

3) Rejuvenating the planting by removing older growth and leaving younger, healthier structures. This helps promote flowering since most flowering shrubs bloom better on 1-year-old growth or newer. What should my expectations be with doing the "pre-spring cut back?" Typically in the first 30 days you will see new growth appear. As we start into spring-summer you will begin to see more and more flowers on several of the different shrubs and groundcovers. Summer is the growing season for a majority of the plants, so this is the time that we want to help control the growth through the use of "selective pruning.â&#x20AC;? Selective pruning is a method of only pruning the unwanted growth from the plant. This would include awkward growth, crossing branches and deadwood. The goal is to keep the natural look of the planting and help promote flowering. Please remember that pruning is an invigorating process and one of the most important parts of managing your landscape.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 17

How is the American Family

Changing?

he majority of families no longer consist of husband and wife with 2.5 kids. Families are comprised of grandparents raising their grandchildren, single moms, families with step-children and step-parents, and girlfriends and boyfriends living together.

a petition for custody if the grandparents believe the child’s parent is physically or emotionally harming the child.

Why the changes? The overall attitude toward relationships and commitment has shifted. Census data shows that 26 percent of all households are made up of a single person. More and more babies are born when the parents are not married and divorce rates continue to climb so that nearly half of all marriages end in divorce court.

The information provided herein is given for general information only. The information presented should not be construed as formal legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2010 American Community Survey results indicate the latest statistics concerning grandparents as care givers. 7.0 million – the number of grandparents whose grandchildren are younger than age 18 living with them. 2.7 million – the number of grandparents responsible for the basic needs of one or more grandchildren under age 18 living with them. 5.4 million – the number of children under age 18 living in a grandparent household. As a grandparent do I have a legal right to my grandchildren? Grandparents in Texas do not automatically have a right of access to their grandchildren. However, the Texas Family Code includes statutes allowing grandparents the right to seek access or custody of a grandchild with the court. Grandparents are permitted to file a petition with the court if their son or daughter is not actively involved in their child’s life. There are several situations in which the court would allow a petition by a grandparent. Examples are where the child’s parent does not have custody of the child and is not actively involved in the child’s life, a parent is deceased, the child’s parent is in jail, or the child’s parent was declared incompetent by a judge. More and more grandparents now are raising their grandchildren. In some situations, grandparents can file for custody of a grandchild. Grandparents may be granted custody by the court if the grandchild has been living with them for at least six months. Grandparents also may file

18 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

The Law Office of Dale A. Burrows, P.C. is ready to help you with access to your grandchildren.

2900 VIllage Parkway Ste 330 Highland Village, TX Phone: (972) 304-6000 Fax: (972) 317-6220 www.BurrowsAtLaw.com

Introducing

Local Style

Color

as your daily eye makeup routine been pretty basic lately? If so, I can’t blame you.

When it comes to makeup, it is easy to stick with what you know. With an abundance of choices in lipstick, liners, shadows, blushes and foundations, the term ‘overwhelmed’ becomes an understatement. And if you’re not overwhelmed, you may find yourself being ‘color shy’… leaving you with a fear of looking too much like our spirit animal, My Little Pony, that makes you retreat into makeup normcore in an instant! Reservations or not, stepping out of your normal ‘makeup box’ may be exactly what you need for a little confidence lift. Anyone can pull off colored lips and liner. You simply adjust the intensity or amount of color to suit any function or personality. Below are some great tips and rules for bringing color to your eyes. The Prep Work Keep skin super fresh and clean. Even out your skin

to Your Makeup Routine By Heather Patterson, Lead Fashion Stylist, mrsstyleseeker.com

tone with a tinted moisturizer or sheer foundation and only use a concealer where needed, like under the eye area. Use an eye primer to keep the color in place. Use a soft blush to warm up the cheeks and light natural lip tone to compliment your colorful eyes. The Best Match The basic rule of thumb when choosing a colored liner: Think opposite colors on the color wheel to bring out contrasting colors. For Brown Eyes Brown eyes often have shades of amber and warm tones, so use shades of blue like navy or cobalt or go for green shades from pastel to deep forest. For Blue Eyes Blue eyes can pop when complimented by golden tones, bronze, yellow or even (dare I say) orange. For Green Eyes Choose hues of purples (anything from lavender to deep eggplant) to emphasize your green eye color.

For Hazel Eyes Because hazel eyes change their color depending on the day, it’s suggested that you opt for golden-bronzy tones or purples. Grey and silver are a great choice here too. Finally, regardless of your eye color, add a matching color mascara. It will bring more definition to the eye and will be super polished.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 19

Body & Soul

Where is My Sciatica Coming From? By Meredith S. Tittle, PT, MPT

As a health care provider, I often feel that the term sciatica is commonly used and perhaps somewhat misunderstood. However, overall there truly is a condition known as sciatica, so letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;bottomâ&#x20AC;? of it! Lumbar Spinal Nerves Simply stated, there are 31 pairs of spinal nerves that travel the course of our spinal cord. The sciatic nerve arises from the levels of L4-S3 in your lower back. The sciatic nerve exits from the spinal cord at the level of your sacrum, travels through a bony notch in your pelvis (the sciatic notch) and innervates the muscles in your buttocks and the back side of your leg. It is the largest nerve in the body.

20 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Treatment To reduce the horrible pain in the buttocks, tingling down the leg and/or numbness through your hamstring you must determine the location of the nerve entrapment. The reason you feel the aggravating and sometimes completely debilitating irritant depends on its source of compression. Nerves, unlike muscles, do not like to be stretched. In fact, they really like to glide similar to dental floss through your teeth. The nerves send information to our legs as a water hose distributes water flow. If the hose is pinched or tangled, the amount of flow decreases at the terminal end. To fix the flow of water, you must fix the entanglement, not just stretch the opening where the water comes out. Make sense? Through a thorough musculoskeletal exam, a licensed physical therapist can assist in the diagnosis and discovery of the place of nerve entrapment. Possible causes of entrapment may

be any of the following or a combination of them all: a problem in the spine such as a disc bulge or a narrowing of the spinal canal, a tight muscle in the buttocks or hamstring, or more rarely complications from a surgery or other abnormality. It is important to discover the area of entrapment to properly treat the condition. The good news is that with proper physical therapy the pressure can be reversed. Take Home Message Seek help to determine the cause of your symptoms. It is important to have a proper diagnosis as not all sciatica is the same. In some cases, specific movements can be taught to reduce the irritant, provide for healing and restoration of the tissue and structures. Do not let the symptoms continue, the sooner the pressure is relieved, the better chance there is for full and healthy recovery!

Learn more at S2SPerform.com

Paul Frederiksen New Argyle Town Manager Learning on the Job By Mark Miller

nly on the job since late December, Paul Frederiksen has been spending a lot of his time as Argyle’s new town manager learning.

Among his first tasks was getting to know his staff and his bosses on the town council. Next was beginning to meet and listen to as many residents and business owners as possible. Though he expects the process to last as long as six months, what he has quickly discovered is how unique and exciting the town is and can be in the future. And he’s excited to be able to play even a small role in that future.

“It’s the job of town manager to get a sense of what the town wants and what it wants to be,” said Frederiksen, a Keller resident. “It’s not the job of the town manager to come in with preconceived notions of what he or she thinks it should be. “It’s a unique community. What makes it unique in certain respects is the geography where it’s located between Fort Worth and Denton and that it straddles both sides of I-35. The community also straddles (U.S. Highway) 377 on both sides. And of course we have the main east-west road with (Farm to Market) 407. So from a road network standpoint we’ve got three areas of road network concentration. Such major roads have spurred tremendous growth outside of Argyle with the building of planned communities like Canyon Falls, Argyle Town Village, The Oaks of Argyle, Harvest, and Country Lakes. While none of those developments fall within Argyle’s borders, all will be provided town services with most of their children attending Arygle schools. Part of Frederiksen’s challenge is learning how much the town needs to balance that surrounding growth with the many people still wanting to stay rural within the town itself. “The pressures of growth, the desire to have a very rustic and rural feel, that’s why the residents moved out here to begin with to preserve that as much as possible,” he said. “That’s why the comp plan and zoning rules are so important to help

guide and balance that and reduce the impact as much as possible.” Frederiksen already has been learning the community’s passions at question-and-answer sessions and public hearings aimed at tightening up the comprehensive/future use plan developed in 2009. “I think everyone in the community is understanding it,” he said. “Everybody gets it. But how do you get agreement? That’s a little bit more precarious. “It’s a very smart, very well-educated community. They have a full appreciation of what’s happening and how it works and again it’s just trying to get that balance.” While striking that balance may be new to Argyle, it’s not unique to the region as private land owners sell their acreage to developers. “Every community is trying to deal with that balance and maintain their unique identity,” said Frederiksen, a certified public manager with previous knowledge and experience in that area. Whatever topics Argyle residents want to discuss, Frederiksen feels he and his staff are ready to meet them. “Though we have a small staff and and a small community, the expectations are very high,” he said. “That’s where the pressures come in. You want to deliver the highest quality services to our residents with a small budget and infrastructure.”

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 21

Girls Basketball:

Liberty Christian Ready for Playoff March By Steve Gamel

he last few years have been rough for the Liberty Christian girls basketball team, largely because of its inability to stay healthy rather than being at a loss for talent. Truth be told, the Lady Warriors are good. Real good. They always have been. Three TAPPS state titles in seven tournament appearances is further proof of that. The harsh reality, though, is that you would have to go back in time four years to find their last championship trophy. The reason is a head-scratching number of injuries that, while not completely detrimental to their success, has been just enough to keep the team from reclaiming the ultimate prize. This year may be the turning point. Liberty Christian, which as of press time was the No. 1 team in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches large private school state poll, is about to start the playoffs and is as healthy and dangerous as ever. Longtime coach Ken Burroughs hopes that translates into another title.

22 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Liberty Christian basketball team practicing, photography by Robert Payne

“We’ve always done well for ourselves, but it’s been nice this season not having to hear, ‘well, if only this one girl, or that girl, didn’t get hurt,’ ” said Burroughs who is in his ninth season at the school. “God has always blessed us with talent, but the biggest thing this year is we’ve been healthy. It doesn’t guarantee us anything, but it’s allowed us to do the things we want to do on the floor.” It was too soon to tell, as of press time, who Liberty Christian would be matched up against in the first round, but a deep run is all but expected. The Lady Warriors’ only two losses this season in non-district play were against Class 6A power South Grand Prairie and last year’s Class 3A state champ, Waco La Vega. At one point midway through the district schedule, the team’s average margin of victory in league games was just more than 32 points. Much of that can be attributed to a loaded roster, which features Arizona State commit Sydney Goodson, a junior point guard, and Kendall Ellig, another junior. Fellow juniors and twin sisters Rebekah and Hannah Hand are practically unstoppable and

come from a respected basketball family at Liberty Christian. Their older sister Whitney is widely regarded as the best player in school history and went on to play at Oklahoma. Through the first 32 games, Rebekah Hand was averaging just north of 20 points per contest. Hannah Hand wasn’t far behind at 13.6 points per game. Goodson averaged 14.46 and Ellig was scoring just shy of 11 points per game. All four girls have been on varsity since they were freshman, but have been unable to stay healthy. Hannah Hand was injured for most of her freshman year, and last year, Goodson suffered a season ending knee injury. The team still made it to the state tournament in 2013 and the regional final last year, but Burroughs said it was difficult to maintain consistency with several girls playing out of position to compensate. That’s what makes this year so special, he said. “Like I said, it doesn’t guarantee us anything,” Burroughs said. “I’ve always told them to just go out there and play. This is a good bunch of girls and I hope they go a long way this year.”

Sound Advice from Jessica

Counseling Corner

Help Your Children Reach Their Full Potential by

Making Their Dreams a Reality

hinking back to when I was a child, I can’t help but think about all the dreams I had while I was growing up. I remember that I always wanted to be like Super Woman and save the day or like Neil Armstrong and walk on the moon. Dreams were my playground that helped me realize my true potential in life. If no one dreams then how can we grow as a society and as individuals? Thus the first step as parents is to ask your children the details of their dreams. It is so easy to pass on our own desires to our children and forget to listen to their aspirations. Thus the second step and the most important step is to be there for your children and give them the support

they so desperately need without altering their imaginations. Without support, dreams never come into fruition. Therefore listen to your children’s hopes and support their dreams. Through active dream building your children will grow confident in their own imaginations and reach for the stars. So with a little love, patience, and positive advice you will help turn your children’s dreams into realities.

Jessica Burrow, MA, LPC, CFLE specializes in children who struggle with anxiety, depression, and self-injury. She is the owner of NextGen Counseling, PLLC. For more information regarding the services she may provide for you or your child please call 940-228-2171 or visit www. nextgencounseling.org.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 23

24 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Ten-Time Pro Bowl Dallas Cowboy Tight End

Jason Witten Launched Liberty Christian’s Baseball Season

he varsity, junior varsity, and freshman baseball teams were also introduced to members of the media. The athletes and their parents were motivated by the words of Jason Witten. “My best memories as a kid were of being a part of a team,” said Mr. Witten, as he encouraged the boys to fight for each other on the field and be God-fearing young men. He told players to enjoy the journey of the season as they share a commitment and a common goal. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” Mr. Witten said as he quoted Proverbs 27:17, explaining that ‘team’

at its Annual Media Day on Feb. 3

is a powerful word when players form a family bond of encouragement for each other. At Media Day, coaches were also introduced and a video was shown of the senior players, many of whom started playing baseball at a young age. At the conclusion, players were dismissed to the field for photos. Head varsity coach Johnny Isom said he was honored to have such an outstanding football great in Mr. Witten come and speak at this inauguration of the Warrior baseball season. Coach Isom said to his team, “We are going to have an outstanding season and give all the glory to God.” Dr. Brent Dragoo, Liberty teacher and solar car sponsor, was the master of ceremonies, and he began the day with prayer and announced all of the coaches and players for the

2015–2016 season.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 25

Argyle ISD

Benefits of Bond Issue Already Coming to Fruition

By Mark Miller

Argyle Baseball/Softball Complex, Photography by Robert Payne

ess than one year after approving a major school bond issue, study indicated Argyle ISD enrollment will double within eight years. As of late Argyle voters are about to see the results of their decision. January, enrollment stood at 2,069 students.

Spring Break Fun!

The expected opening later this month of the new baseball/softball complex adjacent to Argyle High School is proof positive of the progress made with the $45 million bond issue passed last May. “It’s all very exciting,” said Dr. Telena Wright, superintendent of the Argyle Independent School District.“We’re very, very appreciative to the voters of Argyle ISD for passing the bond.” The baseball/softball facilities are just the first of many brick-and-mortar changes coming because of the bond referendum. Four new lighted tennis courts should be ready by April with an indoor activity center and girls field house expected to open this fall. Then in March or April, ground will be broken for a middle school at the northwest corner of the intersection 1171 and 377 to open in August 2016 that eventually could be swapped out with the high school. An additional middle school will be built in and donated by the new Harvest planned community west of I-35W and north of FM407. Harvest also is donating a site for a future elementary school as is the Canyon Falls community south and west of the town. Combined with additional new planned communities Argyle Town Village, The Oaks of Argyle, and Country Lakes, it’s no wonder a recent demographic

26 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

As someone who has helped the high school grow from scratch since joining the Argyle ISD in 2000 and becoming superintendent in 2009, Wright is excited about the future growth. But she’s also proud of the district’s great mix of strong academics, athletics and fine arts. “We’ve had a lot of success in this district,” she said. “We’ve won the Lone Star Cup five times (2006, 2009, 2012, 2013 and 2014). We’ve won six state marching championships. We’ve had a lot of success but it’s been very carefully planned and orchestrated. “We’re very blessed to have very talented students and supportive parents. But we have very carefully selected and positioned the staff to make this possible. It’s been exciting to see the success of the band, to see the success of the athletic teams and the academic program. The first focus of all in Argyle is academics.” With the baseball/softball complex about to open and middle school construction soon to begin, Wright and her staff will be busy with spring activities including prom and hosting the UIL academic district competition. They also will begin work on filling the high school principal position left open when Jeff Butts became superintendent in the Ballinger ISD. Yes, it’s a time for excitement and change for the Argyle ISD.

Local Sponsored Content Advertisement

Committed to

Unrivaled

Customer Service by Steve Gamel

(940) 488-4239 www.Berkeys.com

e all know how fickle North Texas weather can be — especially this time of year. One day it’s sunny and 75, and the next it’s near freezing, rainy and miserable. There are plenty of heating and air companies that can keep your home feeling comfortable year-round, but none do it the Berkeys way.

Berkeys is celebrating its 40th year in business in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and prides itself on being the go-to source for all your air conditioning, heating, plumbing and electrical needs. Besides being fast and reliable, Berkeys can handle everything from furnace or A/C repair to new installs, garbage disposals, water heaters, tankless heaters, water filtration systems, slab leak repairs, and all things electric, including whole home back-up generators and surge/ lightning protection. Getting set up on our industryleading Peace-Of-Mind maintenance plan — we inspect your home up to four times per year, ensuring you are safe, comfortable, and getting the best possible efficiency out of your home’s mechanical systems. If it involves your home or office, Berkeys can help.

“We work so hard to make sure that our customers’ experience is first class, from the very first contact we have with them over the phone to when our service tech shows up at their front door,” Berkeys president Jamie Wooldridge said. “We don’t claim to be perfect, but we’ve been around a long time, we plan to be around for a long time to come, with the mission to make it right for each and every one of our customers.” Berkeys started in 1975 as a plumbing company and has evolved to handle HVAC, electrical and plumbing for residential and light commercial customers. Approximately 95 percent of Berkeys’ business comes from residential clients, and 65-70 percent of its business is referral based, said Wooldridge, who added that Berkeys grew by 30 percent over last year. Berkeys main office is in Southlake, but services the entire Metroplex. Wooldridge added that Berkeys prides itself on honesty, integrity, teamwork and respect. The company has a strong reputation for its work, is trained to handle the latest technology and is a strong community partner. “All our technicians are the best of the best,” Wooldridge said. “We are very selective in our hiring process; we probably interview 10 potential techs to get one. With that comes tenure. While there may be a lot of turnover in other companies, we have techs who have been with us for a long time. We are proud of that.”

“We work so hard to make sure that our customers’ experience is first class, from the very first contact we have with them over the phone to when our service tech shows up at their front door.”

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 27

Living Healthy

The Power of Partnership:

Choose A Health Coach W

e are familiar with Einstein’s definition of insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Yet how many of us seeking better health still find ourselves caught up in this trap? People seeking improved health and weight management fuel a multi-billion dollar industry. According to a report by research firm IBISWorld, it is predicting weight loss industry revenue to hit $2.7 billion by 2018. Your personal health is paramount, thus it’s time to consider a different approach to ramp up results when seeking to improve overall wellness. Enter...the health coach. When attempting to implement positive changes to your health, a qualified health coach is an important piece of the healthcare puzzle.

28 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

By Dan Nevitt of Health in Motion

Health and wellness coaching is a service provided by trained professionals whose skill sets assist clients to set and achieve sustainable health and wellness goals. A health coach guides clients to become proactive in their wellness journey by eliminating unhealthy behaviors and making health and wellness a priority.

Health coaches work one-on-one to guide and empower clients to get in shape, lose weight, reduce stress, identify blocks and create balance in their lives. By addressing emotional, physical, behavioral, nutritional and lifestyle factors, each program a health coach creates is personal and unique to enhance overall health and well-being. Health coaching differs greatly from personal training. A personal trainer tends to tell clients how much to exercise and in some cases, what to eat. But a health coach does that and

so much more, focusing on improving the overall quality of life – not just in the gym.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agree. They report health coaching programs can be an effective way to help patients achieve their wellness goals related to healthy weight, healthful eating, and physical activity. Of those participants who had completed two or more coaching sessions, 70 percent reported being satisfied with the program and 71 percent would recommend health coaching.

When looking for a health coach to partner with, it is imperative to find a licensed professional, preferably holding degrees in health education and/or medicallyrelated fields with diverse backgrounds in psychology, health education, physiology of exercise, nutrition and weight management. Sharing past successes, failures, attitudes, and self-beliefs regarding personal health will allow a qualified health coach to establish short- and long-term goals that are continually revisited, taking a client’s aspirations and transforming them into realities.

ines

e Sidel

On Th ee You

Covering

Argyle,

a Dream

n o i t a u t i S amel By Steve G

hile sitting in the interview room at AT&T Stadium in December, it dawned on me that I would be asking Argyle football coach Todd Rodgers a series of questions I wasn’t used to asking him – and he wasn’t used to answering.

The Eagles had just lost in double overtime to Navasota in the Class 4A Division I state title game. It was their first loss in 32 games. Think about that for a second. That means Argyle was one win shy of going unbeaten in back-to-back 16-game schedules. That’s a feat only achieved by the elite of Texas high school football.

So excuse me if I felt awkward talking to Rodgers after a loss, though he and his players were gracious in defeat. The Town of Argyle is, and seemingly always has been, elite when it comes to providing top-notch academics and athletics. Winning is practically a given – regardless of the sport – and you can say that about both Argyle High School and its private school neighbors down the road, Liberty Christian. That means my job as a local sports writer got a lot more interesting with the arrival of Argyle Living. Most of you may recognize my name from the pages of the Denton Record-Chronicle, where I write full time and have the luxury of covering several programs – including the Eagles and Warriors. Argyle Living gives me a chance to write even more about sports, and how can you go wrong in this town? Just look at what the Eagles have done this year. So far, both the football and volleyball teams have made it to a state final. That consistency always has been there. Since going 5-5 in 2003 – Rodgers’ first season at the helm – Argyle is a

mind-boggling 126-26 in football with four state title-game appearances. Its 31-straight wins prior to Navasota loss was, at the time, second only to Class 6A power Allen. Last year, the school won its first football state title and was represented at state in several other sports, most notably girls basketball and baseball. Both lost in the state final. The same can be said for Liberty Christian. The girls basketball team – which I featured earlier in the magazine – has three state titles and is primed to possibly win another. The football team is a perennial playoff favorite and is no stranger to state titles. Two seasons ago, the Warriors’ baseball team won the TAPPS 5A title. With so much winning going on in this area, the only downside is I’ll have to adjust to those fleeting moments where both schools may come up short. Thankfully, it doesn’t happen often. I am excited to have the chance to add some sports flare to the pages of Argyle Living. Thanks for reading. Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 29

M AG A

ZIN

E’

ARGY LE

R’S O T I K ED PIC 2015

RE C

Claire with her beloved service dog Holly. Photography by Scott Young Photography

Epilepsy Awareness Day

Community Support Makes a

Big Difference

for Family Touched by Disorder By Eric Williams

Epilepsy is a disorder that has a powerful impact on its victims and their families, though its effects can remain practically invisible to the rest of us.

“

t’s been in the shadows a long time,” said Argyle’s Theresa Locastro, whose daughter

Claire has the disorder. The family spoke about helping provide illumination for those of us who know little about the disorder during Epilepsy Awareness Day scheduled for March 26.

If you just met Claire you probably would be

impressed with her gigantic smile and winning

personality. A fourth-grader, Claire has a big vocabulary

and

comfortable

carrying

conversations with adults. But because Claire has

epilepsy her family has to be vigilant in her care, paying special attention to make sure she’s in

the right educational environment and avoiding

activities and circumstances likely to trigger seizures. The family must be careful to make sure she gets

enough sleep and eats the right kinds of food and never misses her medications. Seizures can cause loss of consciousness and convulsions that can result in bodily and/or brain injury.

30 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Fortunately, Claire’s parents, John and Theresa, and older sister Victoria, are resourceful people who not only help her optimize her learning and life experiences, they’re willing to help others too. For example, grateful for a Lions Club whose camp at Kerrville hosts Camp Neuron for young epileptics each year, John and Theresa have joined the Argyle Lions Club. They praise the camp for providing terrific recreation and life experiences for Claire, not to mention welcome relief for a family that every once in a while can use a break from administering medications and constant monitoring of Claire’s conditions. They have great confidence in the camp and some staff members are part of the Cook Children’s Health Care System team they praise for providing terrific care and support for North Texas families dealing with epilepsy. The family has taken Claire to the Cleveland Clinic and participated in a Yale University study. What they learned through the processes of consulting other medical experts is that the care provided at Cook is exactly what Claire needs. They also moved into the Argyle Independent School District, where the staff is aware and very helpful with the particular educational needs for children with epilepsy. “We’d like to mention our wonderful church family and support from Rockpointe Church,” said Theresa. “They have reached out to us many

times with meals, prayers and visits when Claire was in the hospital. They have been there when we needed it most.” The family participates in an annual Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyland, where families impacted by epilepsy wear purple. The message that families are not alone in what they are experiencing is tremendously important, the Locastros say. Theresa is active in epilepsy support groups and when a family dealing with issues around a recent diagnosis contacts her through the Epilepsy Support in North Texas Facebook Group, she’s happy to share what she’s learned in five years dealing with the disorder. The Locastro family also has demonstrated considerable ingenuity. Since John, vice president of sales for Sandlot Solutions, a software company that serves the medical industry, is frequently out of town, he actually has Internet access to a camera that monitors his daughter while she sleeps. Victoria, a middle school student, knows about Claire’s medication and treatment and can be counted on to be part of the team keeping her sister safe. The family also is training a service dog, a bright, energetic Golden Retriever named Holly. While a trained service dog would cost upwards of $30,000, the dog-loving Locastros are, with professional assistance, teaching Holly the skills she needs. In rare cases well-bred Golden Retrievers and Golden Doodles can detect an oncoming seizure.

However, even without that skill, the dogs are tremendously useful because they can be trained to be close to the epilepsy victim and help break the fall and prevent serious injury. During a seizure they can lick the face of a seizure victim, helping them come out of the experience more quickly. They also can be counted on to carry or quickly retrieve devices like a magnet or medicines that can help minimize injury potential of the seizure. Claire has a medical device implanted in her chest that sends signals to her brain. In fact, the device sometimes causes vibrations that alter her voice for a few seconds. Claire’s last serious seizure occurred Feb. 22, 2014. Pointing to the device barely visible beneath the skin just below her collarbone, Claire said, “Since I have this, I don’t have seizures.” The family felt comfortable enough that with Claire’s grandmother in the house, John and Theresa took an adult-only trip to New Orleans to see Theresa’s beloved Ohio State beat Alabama in the Sugar Bowl to win a trip to the College Football National Championship Game.

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 31

32 | ARGYLE LIVING | February 2015

Argyle’s Attitude Can’t Be Replicated!

By Steve Gamel

hen the UIL Lone Star Cup standings were updated last month, it was not a shocker to see Argyle sitting atop Class 4A. Recently, the school has had a stranglehold on the annual award, which is given to one high school in each of the UIL’s five classifications based on team performances throughout the year in district and state championships. Argyle has won threestraight 3A Lone Star Cups and five titles overall (four in 3A, one in 2A) in nine years. This would be the school’s first in 4A should it continue on its current path. As they say, winning is expected. “You have to be like a chameleon, and we feel like we’ve been able to adapt to what the UIL has thrown at us over the years,” said Argyle football coach and athletic director Todd Rodgers. “Our community has high expectations. They want these kids to experience success in all areas, and it’s our responsibility to provide a good education and give

them all the tools to help them be successful. “It’s important to us and our kids, and it’s nice to see our success recognized state-wide.” The winning goes beyond athletics and is part of a much broader theme for this small town. The Lone Star Cup also takes into consideration top finishes in academics, band and one-act plays. In the 2013-14 school year, Argyle reached state in football, baseball, girls basketball and boys golf. Marching band won its consecutive fourth state title and the school took home its ninth-straight academic state title. It’s much of the same this year. According to the latest UIL update on Jan. 9, which includes state and area marching band, team tennis, cross country, volleyball and football, Argyle has 47 points. That’s more points than any school – regardless of classification. The majority of this year’s points – at least so far – have come by way of athletics. The football team went undefeated en route to the 2013 Class 3A Division II state title and rolled up 31-straight wins coming into this year’s 4A Division I final, where the Eagles lost to Navasota in double overtime. It was gut-wrenching for a program not used to

losing, but the fact the Eagles were there – they have been in three title games over the last four seasons – is mind-boggling. Simply put, these kids don’t know how to lose. As the football team was making its run, the volleyball team made its first state final appearance where it lost to Decatur. Both teams were extremely young; the volleyball team had just one senior on the roster while the football team had the daunting task of replacing 29 seniors from the previous season. In the meantime, they had to do things a little different than more established programs. Coaches like Clark Oberle, who led the volleyball team to the state tournament in two out of the last three seasons, said he was one of two coaches running girls volleyball, track and basketball in the early days. “That was it, and there were nights where I’d be coaching seventh grade, eighth grade and JV one after the other,” Oberle said. “We got our rears kicked a lot in those days, but it’s not that way anymore. It’s definitely rewarding to see all of our success now. I’ve got a son who is a seventhgrader and he’s been waiting for this his whole life, to be an Eagle.”

FEBRUARY 2015 | Argyle living | 33

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Home Sold in AISD (Last 6 Months) Address

Sq Ft Total

Acres

3309 Hornbeam St.

1,731

.138

$179,500

3329 Tamarack Ln.

1,873

.155

$207,990

4581 S Bonnie Brea St. S

2,759

4.453

$294,000

316 River Meadows Ln.

2,419

.288

830 Frenchtown Rd.

3,318

2100 Fairway Acres Dr.

3,267

2940 Britt Dr.

Address

Acres

Price

Lot 9 Fincher Rd.

1.000

$165,000

Lot 7 Fincher Rd.

1.000

$165,000

Lot 8 Fincher Rd.

1.000

$165,000

Lot 11R Charyl Lynn Dr. .713

$39,900

$310,000

314 Willow St.

.455

$75,000

4.500

$375,000

Lot 7 Wagner Way

.680

$89,000

2.460

$399,900

290 Boonesville Bend

.250

$120,000

4,315

2.188

$650,000

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1.000

$139,000

5205 Lighthouse Dr.

6,030

1.880

$900,000

4500 Tour 18 Dr.

10,125

2.655

$950,000

0 US 377

.189

$149,00

145 Quiet Hill Cir.

2.001

$220,000

728 Johns Well Ct.

2.500

$225,000

Lot 21 Johns Well Ct.

2.500

$225,000

TBD E Hickory Hill Rd. 9.000

$225,000

Residential Lots Sold in AISD (Last 6 Months) 000 Walnut St.

.322

$139,000

425 Taylor Rd.

1.999

$150,000

2054 Briar Hill Rd.

1.637

$190,900

000 Crepe Myrtle Ln.

2.257

$249,000

00 Squirrel Run Rd.

2.505

$207,500

0 Hamilton Rd.

5.000

$259,000

4 Badminton Dr.

2.425

$220,000

000 Deer Path.

5.880

$275,000

5605 Masters Ct.

1.672

$250,000

405 Stonewood Blvd.

2.100

$275,000

Lot 9 Hickory Ridge Ct.

5.000

$375,000

438 Taylor Rd.

4.000

$298,900

0000 Shady Trail

11.770

$505,000

100 Quiet Hill Cir.

2.961

$330,000

631 Sunset Ct.

4.880

$450,000

1030-D Rockgate Rd.

7.205

$486,338

00 E Hickory Hill Rd. E 7.260

$525,000

500 Gibbons

8.790

$550,000

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1,872sqft 1,800

3237 Buckthorn Ln.

1,736sqft $1,800

3225 Hornbeam St.

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3212 Hornbeam St.

2,576sqft $1,950

000 Sam Davis Rd.

6.611

$555,324

3216 Hornbeam St.

2,928sqft $2,300

1964 W Jeter Rd. W

19.619

$1,299,000

206 Colling St.

1,498sqft $1,800

1030-B Rockgate Rd.

22.300

$1,616,750

411 Goodnight Trail

2,742sqft $2,300

1030-A Rockgate Rd.

25.200

$1,827,000

8601 Riviera Ct.

4,840sqft $5,500

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