Argyle Living Magazine February 2016

FEBRUARY 2016

Divorce Attorney Charla Bradshaw on Emotion,

Fear

Reality

Argyle - Canyon Falls - Harvest - Robson Ranch

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FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 3

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Argyle resident

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Featured Stories and News 09 12 14

Beginning February 29th Argyle Residents trash will be every Monday. Bulk/brush and recycle 1st, 2nd and 5th Mondays

Pg 18 On the Cover: Charla Bradshaw - KoonsFuller Family Law

21 22 24 26 27 28 30 33 36 37

Argyle UIL Realignment Women’s Heart Health Argyle Town Council National Signing Day Inside Community Student Drivers Less Distracted Toyota Retreat Center Debut Author Shares Story

LI

Varsity Baseball Home vs. Nolan Catholic

Inside Education Cutting Edge Dental Care

Ask the Experts 07

From Your Editor

08

Dr. Matt

16

Upscale Home

17

Style

March 22nd - 26th

20

Real Estate

Good Friday

23

Life Coaching

31

Body and Soul

32

Gardening

35

Sidelines

March 18th at 7pm

ECE - US Missions Week

March 25th

Want to feature your school’s or organization’s event? Contact us at artwork@murray-media.com 6 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

NG

M AG A

ZIN

E’

R’S ITO K ED PIC

Spring Break

March 11th - 18th

VI

S

March 6th from 6-8pm at Robson Ranch Clubhouse

Liberty Christian Campus

T

All Pro Dads Breakfast

Wrestling Banquet

RSV: Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Family Law 18 KoonsFuller

Liberty Christian School Events March 4th from 7:30-8:15am

Argyle Top Schools

EN

Change in Trash Pickup

Contents

ARGY LE

Argyle Community Events

Table of

2016

RE C

IP

I

Spring Forward, spring cleaning

O

A Message from The Community Editor

step forward and be to what is calling you.

inevitably makes our weekend one

gain valuable momentum.

hour shorter … major bummer!

If you take one step at a time, before long you will Some of us do a “spring cleaning” of our

This is something that doesn’t change.

homes with a deep and intense cleaning of dust

round out the famous card-maker’s Valentine

windows allowing fresh air into a home that was

for wearing my heart on my sleeve. A soft

the “newness” that spring will bring. Just as we

It’s constant. It’s definite. Additionally, as we

as we prepare for the new season. We open the

holiday, I challenge myself to end my apologies

closed up during the winter and we embrace all

heart is often fragile, sensitive

engage in spring cleansing,

it allows me to empathize and

“spring clean” ourselves and

and often cracking, however,

spring is a great time to

sympathize, without judgment,

prepare for new relationships or

in the hearts and lives of

intentioned

hearts

the weights and heavy items

to

that we are carrying around.

do greatness, we often find

Some items we collected

ourselves back in the patterns

of our own ‘groundhog days.’

It’s humorous as we have just

commemorated this day/event, it really does parallel the life I share with so many of you!

We wake up with a routine

and/or

Sometimes we don’t realize

While we may always have

good

friendships

new opportunities.

people around me.

Kathryn Flores,

Community Relations, Marketing and Advertising Manager Argyle Living & Lantana Living Kathryn@murray-media.com 214.734.5783

that too often repeats in much of the same

series of actions and activities every single day.

In continuation to wearing our hearts outwardly, I am striving to be more intentional also taking my life and “spring it forward.”

Many people will begin to emerge out of

hibernation at this time. Maybe the spiritual cold

climate kept some people from moving forward, but it is time to shake off the coldness. If this is you, allow your heart and the hearts of others to

gently warm you up and help you open again to great possibilities.

Some have been hidden and others held

back. Do not allow the words or actions of

others to keep you hidden or back. Begin to

during the winter season, and they no longer have a function for the new season of our life. Doors are opening for for

and new relationships.

new

growth,

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

Sub-Editor Bobbi Byrne

n Sunday, March 13, we will take

notice of spring forward that

ArgyleLivingMagazine.com

opportunities development

Spring is a season of freshness in and a

shedding or placing away of the heavy items from

the previous season. This is a time to remove old, stagnated relationships that no longer fit this

new season of your life. Separate or pack away negative people and dream-killers. Replace them with cheerleaders and people who celebrate the “new” you.

Stay tuned … life just keeps getting better!

Spring yours forward … do the things you are passionate about and make a difference in

Contributors Steve Gamel Sarah Bays

Advertising

Kathryn Flores kathryn@murray-media.com Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Production Graphic Designers Liz Wallace Stephanie Hansen Whitney Hill Caroline Brock

Photography

Scott Young 972.899.3536 ScottYoungPhoto.com Karen Foust 214.850.3417 FoustPhotography.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 972.899.3637 or email artwork@murray-media.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. © 2016 Murray Media Group

yourself and unavoidably, someone else. We are part of an amazing community of greatness!

Carry on and be intentional about shining an outward light!

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 7

From Dr. Matt

Dentist Do For You? What Can Your

Dr. Matt is a practicing dentist and owner of Country Lakes Family Dental

www.CountryLakesDental.com

I

grew up in West Texas, and most anyone from there is aware of the unique mineral content of water.

My town was specifically known as “The Town without a Toothache” because the excess of fluoride in the water resulted in a decreased incidence of tooth decay.

Coincidentally for me, my dentist would clean my teeth on Saturdays when his hygienist was on a break. As a result, a cleaning was about the extent of my dental visit, so my childhood perception of dentists is that they simply “cleaned teeth.”

8 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

The truth is my dentist was more than

qualified in this aspect of my oral health. So, you may ask yourself what dental treatment

should you expect from your family dentist, and to what extent is your dentist qualified to

provide certain types of treatment? I raise these concerns because on January 21, a Texas Court ruled that dentists who don’t practice one of the

nine specialties recognized by the ADA may still advertise as “specialists” in Texas if they meet certain conditions.

An example of this is the term “cosmetic

dentist.” Even though most dental care in this

age focuses on improving overall aesthetics,

no dental specialty is recognized by that specific title.

To be clear, a dental specialty recognized by

the ADA is one that typically requires graduation

from a post-graduate residency. Therefore, specialists are capable of treating advanced dental

cases. On the other hand, dental specialties were born from general dental procedures, so

your family dentist may provide some specialty services at the same standard of care, for example implants, root canals, or treating children.

It may be advantageous to have your family

dentist treat these situations to avoid higher

fees or over-treatment almost in the same way you would not visit a cardiologist to take your blood pressure.

The best way to determine if you or your

child requires specialized treatment is to visit

your family dentist to determine if a specialist is recommended. Always have the conversation

with your dentist to understand their level of education and comfort with specific procedures.

Maintaining a lasting relationship with your

family dentist is invaluable in caring for you oral health and ensuring many happy smiles.

ARGYLE

Draw home buyers to area L

ocal schools are making the grade when it comes to drawing in home buyers.

Cruvita.com compiled a list of the top elementary, middle and high schools for homebuyers who want to move to Denton County.

All of these schools have received Cruvita Gold Medals of Excellence at the national level.

Argyle schools made the middle and high school rankings.

The top middle schools include: Argyle Intermediate Argyle Intermediate is home to some classy students who partake in unique activities like Argyle Knights. The event kicks off Hip Hop night for sixth graders, sort of like cotillion with a twist.

Then there’s the Argyle Eagles Talonettes Drill Team and a healthy sports program.

by Sarah Bays

The top High schools include: Argyle High A stellar athletics department has been a hallmark of Argyle High School for years. With a football team that returns to State year after year headlining the school’s sports, Argyle is known around the state as a formidable force.

Argyle High School has an exceptional band program. Currently, the band is UIL Class 4A State Marching Band Champion.

Other awards include the Texas Bandmasters Association 2014 Exemplary Band Award.

Students in the Argyle Independent School District are routinely competitive in UIL events. Recent wins include documentary film, narrative film, cheerleading, computer applications, literary criticism, journalism, calculator applications, mathematics and science.

A parent survey shows that each of the four schools in the district make parents feel comfortable on campus. Most feel that there is a good communication between school and home.

Most parents also agree that the schools are excellent learning environments and that they know how well their child is progressing academically.

The district is supported in part by the Argyle Education Foundation, which helps provide fluid funding while helping the district stay fiscally responsible. It provides funds for extra teachers and an avenue for business and community involvement in the educational needs of Argyle ISD students.

In the 2014-2015 school year, donors helped the Foundation bring in more than $130,000 in additional funding.

For more information about how Argyle schools match up with other Denton County schools, visit http://blog.cruvita.com/top-10high-schools-in-denton-county-texas.

Argyle Middle Located on the same campus as the high school, Argyle Middle School has been recognized as an exemplary campus 7 times in the past decade. Each student is issued a Chrome book to use for the year as a means of ehancing education through technology.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 9

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Come Visit Our New Showroom!

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We appreciate you supporting small business by shopping local.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 11

RSV Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Most children with bronchiolitis can be diagnosed with just a physical exam. When we listen to the lungs, the airways are congested with mucus. With RSV bronchiolitis, all areas of the lungs sound about the same which helps to rule out bacterial pneumonia.

We’ll often hear some wheezing and many children will breathe harder or faster than normal.

Sure, we could order a chest x-ray or a test to look for the RSV virus, but just because we can order tests doesn’t mean that we should. If a child’s symptoms and physical exam make sense for bronchiolitis, a slightly abnormal chest x-ray often leads to unnecessary antibiotics. RSV is a virus and does not improve with antibiotics.

Once the diagnosis is made, we have to decide what to do about it. For the majority of kids, with relatively mild symptoms and without significant distress, the best treatment is “symptomatic care.” That means staying home, using saline drops and suction to keep the nose clear, encouraging fluid intake, and keeping an eye out for worsening symptoms.

The symptoms tend to peak around day 4 and then gradually resolve over the next few days. Children with more severe symptoms may need to be admitted to the hospital overnight or for longer periods. But even there, the mainstays of our treatment are sucking out the snot and keeping kids hydrated.

Here are some signs that your child may need medical attention: • An infant under 2 months of age with a temperature of 100.4 F or higher requires medical evaluation to rule out other possible life-threatening causes for the fever.

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.

• Any child who stops breathing, turns blue or gray, or doesn’t respond to stimulation needs emergent medical attention.

• Children who are not able to drink enough fluids to stay hydrated should be evaluated for dehydration.

I

t’s that time of year again, RSV season. Respiratory syncytial virus or “RSV” is a particularly nasty virus that can cause a variety of symptoms in children–anywhere from common cold symptoms to respiratory problems bad enough to be potentially fatal.

• Any child who is breathing harder or faster than usual or seems to have difficulty breathing should be evaluated.

• In kids who seemed to be recovering, worsening symptoms or a new fever could indicate pneumonia, an ear infection, or other complications.

RSV tends to circulate in the winter and early spring–roughly December to March here in North Texas.

If your child needs to be seen, try your best to get an appointment with her regular doctor. It’s much easier to evaluate a child at her worst when you’ve seen her at her best. And if your child’s doctor isn’t available, try to find an urgent care or emergency facility that sees children frequently (or exclusively).

New Expanded Hours Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:30pm Friday: 7:30am - 5pm Saturdays: 9am - 12pm

Call to schedule appointment with Dr.Butler or our NEW Nurse Practitioner, Melanie Bitzer.

12 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 Bartonville, TX 76226

www.LantanaPediatrics.com

Sponsored Content

RSV infections are very common, occurring in 90 percent of children before their second birthday. Fortunately, the majority of these infections cause relatively mild congestion and runny nose. For some children the virus travels deep inside the lungs, resulting in a disease called bronchiolitis. This condition causes the small airways within the lungs to fill up with thick mucus and dead cells from the lining of the airway. When this happens the child has to work harder to move air through the lungs.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 13

Liberty Christian Has Made A+

Campus upgrades

by Sarah Bays

W

hen you walk into Liberty Christian School, you immediately experience some of the things that make the high school years so special. Friendships are made around study tables, while graduating seniors seek a space to hang out with their friends.

Argyle resident

The Warrior Union is a place for both, with chairs and tables and banquettes wrapping around pillars. A huge screen on one wall of the hang out gives updates and encouraging messages to students as they pass through.

“It’s a way to merge the new high school with the lower school,” said Julie Barber, director of campus planning.

14 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

This space was created as part of Phase I of the school’s Great Expectations building campaign, which included a new two-story upper school.

The $17 million project also added a new library, more classrooms for early childhood and the lower school, a new lower school gym and a new LCS swag store.

“We wanted to get everyone under one roof,” Barber said.

Phase I was completed just before students returned to school after Christmas break. Barber said there are a few minor tweaks to work on, but the Liberty family is excited about the changes.

There were some changes to the initial project phases, like building the new high school. For the past couple years, with colder than normal climes, middle school classes have been held in portable classrooms.

So the middle school is now located where the old high school was.

The new gym was specifically needed as

pre-K through 5th grade students have physical education time daily. The former library is now home to a new school store, which was also

housed in portables, but now boasts school swag with a splash of Liberty colors and personality.

Why now?

Liberty brings in 25-30 new students each

year, and while some space is left open by

graduating seniors, school administration wants to be prepared for growth.

“We anticipate the way this area is growing

… Dr. [Rodney] turn anyone away.”

Haire

doesn’t

like

to

Phase I was completed in 18 months. Phase II will include a new worship/performing arts auditorium and a double gymnasium.

Barber said school staff has sat down with parents in order to figure out what they wanted most for their Liberty kids. Ultimately, the entire project was funded by donations from some of those parents, among others.

“This is a partnership,” she said. “They look to the parents, knowing we’re doing this together.

We want to be an extension of what’s happening at home.”

And perhaps that’s why the halls, freshly painted and newly minted, are silent, free of clutter and reflective of the personal responsibility that Barber said Liberty tries to instill in its students.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 15

Upscale Home

Trends Who needs ‘em...

W

by Complete Solutions 972.539.8258

here do trends come from….In junior high the cool kids led the way when it came to trends? Those trends were captured forever in the pages of school yearbooks and family photo albums.

Sweatshirt sales soared in the 80s after the movie

The yearly paint trend is chosen by a group of

Flash Dance was released and the dancer wore a

people around a table who discuss several things

along with the leg warmers, it was a huge trend!

travel, and even weather. They begin their world

cut neck sweatshirt and everybody had to have one

We let so many things influence us but when

it comes to interior decor who sets the trends?

Seriously don’t you really wonder sometimes, “what were they thinking??”

their top choice. They debate until a decision is

reached and the new color trend for the year is chosen. Last year’s Pantone color of the year was

Marsala. How much of that did you see?? I would dare to say, not much. Instead of people being led

around by an attempted trend, we made decisions

on our own and the majority said no to Marsala.

When it comes to decorating I always plead “independence from trends.” When asked about the latest trend, we respond ‘we’re seeing a lot of...” We

love creative, fresh, new, and unique ideas....but if you like something then it will always be in style for

you. Use it in your deco planning with confidence because it speaks to who you are.

My personal opinion is that for the most part trends are for people who don’t know what they like.

including fashion, pop culture, technology, music, -wide search of trends in January each year and

by the time spring rolls around, the color experts

have culled their favorite hues and Pantone hosts a secret two-day meeting where everyone presents

If you like it, it will always be in style. Use more

fluid pieces for the “trendy” applications if you

want to be trending. Pillows, accessories even paint

can throw a splash of trend around with out being too expensive to change when you tire of it or it’s

replaced by the next trend. A lot of people follow trends whether in fashion or in home decor and as

with fashion they continually have to change their interior spaces to have the latest trend. Others will

follow a trend but are afraid of color and can’t pull it together, so their spaces end up void of color. It

is okay to have neutral colors on the staple pieces, that way you can change out the pops of color in

the room. Starting from scratch or just updating, throwing in some fresh patterns with color like a chevron pattern on an outdated floral sofa and

adding a new pattern on the draperies can give a simple updated look.

A well-cared-for piece of furniture can last for

generations. A nice custom bedding set will last so long you will move it from the master bedroom

to the guest room and then send it to the son or

daughters first home. With that kind of longevity make sure it’s some thing that you like and not just a passing trend.

From Trends to Traditions, Complete Solutions

we will help you find the perfect fabric, furniture

and accessories for your home. Stop by today, we would love the opportunity to get to know you and help with any of your decorating projects. Let’s 16 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

schedule your in home consultation today.

Style

Suit Guy:

Know Your Colors W

hen it comes to looking your best, there are a few things every man needs to know. A close shave, a trendy haircut and stylish shoes can really finish a look in ways that an outfit cannot.

But that doesn’t mean men should let down his

garment guard. What a guy wears says a lot about

him, from their self confidence to their level of professionalism, it’s important for men to have a keen eye when it comes to clothing.

Shopping doesn’t have to be complicated. A few

simple guidelines and rules of thumb can help every man make a few quick selections off the rack or at the tailor.

For example, these are the five suits every guy

needs in their closet:

Navy: This is the most classic suits fabric around.

A well-fitted navy suit will get you compliments

every time you wear it. And, it looks great with any

skin tone.

by Jonny Willingham

Charcoal: Opt for charcoal over black for everyday

wear. It can still be worn to some formal events, but

is much more versatile for work and nights out.

And, it’s a much more approachable color.

Light Color: After you’ve got the basic navy and charcoal in the closet, opt for a light gray, or

enlightened blue. You could also opt for something

on the brown spectrum if that fits your skin tone better.

Patterned: A glen plaid or window pane suit is great to mix in with your work suit to break out with a little flare and flash. It’s classic enough for the

office, but it will definitely get you a few more looks and comments. Why not keep things interesting?

Black: Save this for formal events and funerals. The

black suit/tuxedo is tough to beat when worn at the proper time, but Monday at the office isn’t a formal

event. Leave it in the closet until the moment is right, then look like a million bucks.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 17

Divorce Attorney Charla Bradshaw on Emotion,

Fear

Reality

by Steve Gamel

C

harla

Bradshaw

doesn’t

need

reminders of how difficult divorce can be on a family. The Denton native has been an attorney for more

than 23 years, and in that time has worked her share of bitterly contested cases as well as those unfortunate ones where only one spouse wanted the marriage to end.

Simply

put,

divorce

brings

about

an

emotional time for everyone, and there are sure to be endless questions and fears. But not one case Bradshaw takes on begins or ends with her clients feeling alone or afraid.

That’s because they have the right lawyer – and friend – in their corner to guide them every step of the way.

“I want them to think, ‘I was represented to the fullest, and now that it’s over, I have more resources to help me,’” said Bradshaw, who is the managing shareholder of KoonsFuller Family Law’s Denton office. “I don’t finish someone’s case and it’s, see ya later. People need to be able to come out of a firestorm the best they can. It’s extremely satisfying to know I brought someone through that difficult time and helped them with their future.”

18 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

Bradshaw is known for summarizing some of the most difficult cases, both locally and internationally, and her vast experience in family law has made her a clear choice as an expert for speeches, television and radio stations looking to discuss divorce-related matters.

She’s also very much that local girl from down the street who after all these years still prides herself on being a servant to the community in which she lives and works. We are pretty sure Charla could practice anywhere in the world and be successful, but she chooses to stay right here in Denton County, where her and her husband-and Republican candidate for Texas House District 64 - Rick Hagen, both work and live.

That’s why people feel an instant comfort level when working with her and the team at KoonsFuller, which has built its own solid reputation as the largest family law firm in the Southwest.

Yet bringing a person, or an entire family, through a divorce storm is not easy. Divorcing spouses or those contemplating it often struggle to take those first difficult steps. They hear horror stories from family members and friends who have gone through it, or they read about nasty litigation online, in the papers, or on television, and believe those exact circumstances will play out when it’s their turn in the courtroom.

Questions such as, “What will happen to my house?” or “How will I support myself ?” consume their lives. And if there are children involved, there will be a different set of hesitations and obstacles to overcome.

So how do we slay those fears?

Bradshaw says the biggest thing people need to realize is that no case is the same. In fact, they couldn’t be more different. What you see in the news has nothing to do with the specifics of your case, and most of the guidance you could get from a non-attorney is unrealistic or misguided.

With that said, the first step – even if you aren’t sure what your next move is – is to consult with an attorney.

“People will hesitate because of the fear of the unknown, but it’s so much better to seek answers from a lawyer than someone else,” Bradshaw said.

“Even if you don’t end up filing, it’s a very wise first step because you have a chance to talk things through and learn ways to protect yourself.”

Bradshaw added, “The goal of a family lawyer should never be to tell people they need to get a divorce.”

But taking preventative measures helps, and they include keeping a detailed checklist of events and evidence – such as posts on social media, pictures, videos, etc. – that may be beneficial in a court case. An attorney can think of things most clients wouldn’t.

To that end, Bradshaw takes the title of “family lawyer” to a whole new level. Most people wouldn’t know this, but after graduating from Denton High School in 1980, she got her undergraduate degree from Texas Women’s University where she also worked on her masters in marriage and family therapy.

Charla completed all her masters’ coursework with the exception of her thesis because she opted to go to law school instead. Her decision to switch careers wasn’t made lightly. She had been accepted into the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University and wanted to see that through after working as a paralegal temp at a family law firm in Houston.

But having that marriage and family therapy knowledge allowed her to approach her legal career differently.

“I think it’s a very good thing when a lawyer understands the dynamics of a family relationship, and I feel like that knowledge helps me in this job almost as much as anything I learned in law school,” Bradshaw said. “Divorce is personal, and you learn a lot about the family and their kids. I’m able to make suggestions most people don’t think of. They think the next step is litigation, but it’s not. It’s best to offer alternatives first.”

One of the first things Bradshaw said she does when she sits with a prospective client is to try to understand why the marriage broke down in the first place and if either spouse tried counseling sessions or explored other possibilities.

Bradshaw said one of the best parts of her job is that there are thousands of ways she can help her clients, and her resources are limitless. Since no divorce case is the same, there are so many factors that come into play, such as property, children, paternity and pre/post nuptial agreements. It’s important to have someone representing you that will look out for your best interests first.

Sponsored Content

photography by Kent Barker

“...most of the guidance you could get from a non-attorney is unrealistic and misguided.”

“This is the finalization of a relationship and it will affect the family and the kids. Life will look completely different afterward, so before someone throws in the towel, I personally want to know all that they did to try to help the situation.

And I want to know if they are emotionally ready,” Bradshaw said. “I have referred couples to marriage counselors first. Even if it doesn’t work, at least I’ve tried.”

Bradshaw said there are lesser-known options out there that need to be explored more often.

Options like collaborative law help to keep certain family cases out of the court system. And even when the divorce process is over, Bradshaw said she helps clients with everything from career design to future counseling, finding ways to protect themselves and their children, and other post divorce matters.

“My clients are placing the most important part of their lives in my hands, so they need to feel like they can talk to me about anything,” Bradshaw said. “It’s important to me that their needs are always being met.”

And that they know there is life after divorce.

Charla Bradshaw has been practicing family law for more than 23 years and is co-author of the book Protecting Your Assets From a Texas Divorce.

www.koonsfuller.com

Denton

320 West Eagle Dr. Suite 200 • Denton, TX 76201 (940) 442.6677 • (940) 442.6671 fax Principal Office in Dallas FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 19

Real Estate

Location

Location, Location,

H

“

by Will Woods

ello, we are looking for a new home and not very picky. We would like a 3,500+ square-foot, 4-bedroom, 3-bath, 3-car garage, with a study, updated, open floor plan, single story, with a pool, on more than an acre, with privacy, in a neighborhood, in Argyle ISD, with trees, and our budget is no more than $425,000.”

A lot of our initial conversations start just like above. If that sounds like you, that is okay.

A good agent should be a good listener and be skilled at identifying what is the most important couple of items in your home search. Most likely your Realtor will be able to find you most of what you would like, however understand you will definitely have to compromise.

When purchasing a pre-owned home we tell our buyers that if we can find you a home that scores a 7 or 8 on a scale of 1 to 10 then we should write a contract immediately. The reason is that it is almost impossible to find a home someone else built that is a perfect 10. An 8 is a home run!!! Even if you build a custom home typically compromises will be made to accommodate budget.

One of the main items we encourage our clients to settle on early is location. Some people will not want to buy a home that backs up to a busy road because they are concerned about noise or resale value. However, in Highland Park, near downtown Dallas, there are milliondollar custom homes that back up to the Dallas North Tollway. These typically sell quickly and are highly desired for their location. Sometimes what one buyer sees as a negative, other buyers will see as a positive and actually be willing to pay a premium for it.

One of the main items we encourage our clients to settle on early is location.

20 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

Locations also change over time due to progress

“deal-breakers.” This will allow your agent to

buyer moved into a quiet country setting, a

expectations. If you have a list of 10 items that

or communities growing. A few years after one

90-lot development was opened near them with third acre lots. The buyers were disappointed that

their dream location had changed so much. To

their surprise though, when they decided to sell, their home had more than doubled in value.

As you settle on your location determine

2-3 things about the location that will be most important or as I like to refer to them as

find you a location that meets or exceeds your your location must meet, it is unlikely your agent

will be able to find you a suitable place for your new home.

Please reach out to The Woods Group if

we can ever be of service to you in your real

estate transactions. You can reach us easily at 214.733.9239.

Few Surprises

“Believe it or not, it played out

For ARgyle Following UIL

align

pretty much as I expected,” Rodgers

said. “I looked at the numbers and I

saw the shifting in 4A Division I, and

I figured we would go Region I based on

our geography.”

Rodgers clearly did his homework

because trying to guesstimate where your

school will fit into the UIL realignment

puzzle, and who will be in the same district,

has been described by other area coaches

by Ste ve Ga m

el

as a mind teaser. Every two years, the UIL

A

rgyle football coach and athletic coordinator Todd Rodgers said there were few surprises, at least in his mind, when the University Interscholastic League released its 2016-18 biennial realignment and reclassification.

Starting next school year, the Eagles’ football team will be in the new six-team District 4-4A

(Division I) with Sanger, Burkburnett, Decatur, Gainesville and Wichita Falls Hirschi. In every other sport, Argyle is lumped into District 9-4A with Sanger, Krum, Bridgeport, Decatur and Gainesville.

realigns and reclassifies all public schools

under its jurisdiction within six classifications

(Class 1A-6A) based on the reported enrollment

numbers for each school.

In Argyle’s case, the only district foe that remains

the same as last year — regardless of sport — is

Sanger. Both schools were lumped in with several

Dallas ISD schools and Carrollton Ranchview for the

past two seasons. Now they join up with a completely

different set of schools, some of whom are district foes

of years past.

On paper, both should be two of the top teams in

the district with Decatur, which finished 9-2 last year.

Assuming Argyle makes the playoffs, which they always do, they’d be matched up with a

tough District 3-4A in the first round, which features teams like Abilene Wylie, Brownwood and Stephenville.

“There are a few surprises, but we are looking forward to the new challenges,” Rodgers added.

“These are teams that a lot of these kids

have never played against, so it’s fun to do something new.”

Because Argyle is in a six-team district for

football, Rodgers said the Eagles will have five non-district games in 2016 and 2017. They’ll

open the season against Lovejoy, followed by La Grange, Celina, Abilene Wylie and Paris.

Argyle is coming off its third straight

appearance — fourth in the last five years — in a state title game in football. Dating back to last school year, the school has won state titles in girls basketball, volleyball, baseball and boys golf.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 21

Sponsored Content

Focus on F

ebruary is American Heart Month. Since 2003, the American Heart Association has been working to increase women’s awareness of heart disease by launching the Go Red for Women ™ campaign.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen to the heart become blocked by plaque and/or blood clot. While women with coronary artery disease (CAD) generally are about 10 years older than men at the time of presentation, it remains the leading cause of death. One contributing factor is that women may not exhibit classic symptoms, and therefore may not seek prompt medical attention.

Additionally, data suggest that women are not referred as often as men for appropriate diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures despite similar clinical presentation. Heart disease claims the lives of one in 3 women. Additionally, 64% of women who die suddenly from coronary artery disease have had no previous symptoms. However, 80% of heart disease may be prevented by early detection, lifestyle changes and medical therapy.

While chest pain is the most common symptom of coronary artery disease in both sexes, women are more likely to exhibit atypical symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, back pain, jaw pain, fatigue or lightheadedness. It is important for women to be aware of CAD risk factors.

Risk factors include: Age >55 Family history of premature CAD (1st degree male relative less than 50 years old or female relative less than 60 years old) Hypertension (blood pressure of greater than 140/90 or treatment for hypertension) Dyslipidemia (elevated LDL and/or low HDL) Diabetes Smoking The next step would be to schedule a visit with your doctor to discuss your heart health and to help determine your risk. If appropriate, you may be referred to a heart specialist (cardiologist) to be considered for additional testing. If there is evidence of coronary artery disease, your health care team will be able to aggressively work on the risk factors that lead to disease progression with lifestyle modifications and possibly medical treatment. The bottom line is knowledge is power. When women are well informed, they are empowered to make decisions that can impact their quality and longevity of life.

Dr. David Scherer, MD, FACC

469.800.1030 • TheCardioVascularConsultants.com • 4421 Long Prairie Rd., Ste. #200 • Flower Mound, TX 75028 Call to schedule appointment with Dr. David Scherer, MD, FACC or Dr. Raul Santos, MD 22 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

What Kind of

Business are You

Running?

by Art Locke

I

f you’re in business for yourself, whether you employ people or run a home-based business solo, it’s important to answer the question, “What kind of business are you?”

This isn’t a question about the industry

you’re in, or your legal entity. It’s about your

Life Coaching What are the practical implications of

running each of these types of businesses?

Lifestyle businesses exist to maximize the cash they generate for the owner. In this scenario

investments in the business are minimized, costs are kept low, debt is avoided and the

business will be structured to easily dissolve it when the owner no longer needs or wants to

run it. Contrast that with an entrepreneurial business where the goal is to maximize the

And

valuation of the business in hope of a sale.

company logo emblazoned across a sleek,

command a fair price, the owner has to be

own personal involvement in the day-to-day

structure, processes, standards, a history of

opportunity without looking back.

last, there is the “legacy” business – think

To survive a buyer’s due diligence and to

glass high-rise – whose life far outlives your

able to demonstrate sufficient business

running of the business.

solid growth in sales and profits, mastery of

Why does this matter?

Because what

customer account management, compliance

fundamental purpose in running the business

you do this year, this quarter or this month,

to legal, regulatory and HR mandates and the

out of it.

your long-term objective. It matters because,

A “legacy” business is concerned with

and what you and your family hope to get There are three kinds of businesses, and

every for-profit business fits into one of these three categories.

The first kind is a “life-style”

business,

meaning its principal purpose is to fund your

lifestyle,

from

paying bills to helping you

afford

with your business, should be aligned with

existence of a skilled, well-motivated team.

depending on which of the three businesses

all of the same structural issues as an

you think you’re running, it will alter what

“entrepreneurial” business, but is also highly

how you manage it.

on the bench and being groomed to take over

his

That’s a key decision that has enormous

“Their answer dictates their leadership focus and priorities and determines what their time and money is invested in...”

college

and

committed to succession planning. Who is

in

the reins when the founder is ready to retire?

The Seven Habits of

ramifications for the company, employees

you

invest

Stephen

in

Covey,

landmark

book

Highly Effective People,

and customers.

“Begin with the end in

my clients is, “What business are you in?”

in is a terrific example of understanding your

and priorities and determines what their time

identified a key habit:

This is why one of the first questions I ask

tuition, vacations, etc. The second kind is

mind.” Understanding what business you’re

Their answer dictates their leadership focus

you’d sell it in a heart-beat if you got a good

“end in mind” so that you know how to wisely

and money is invested in, and why.

an “entrepreneurial” business, meaning that

offer for it and move on to the next business

invest your time and money today.

What business are you in?

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 23

Argyle Town Council

There are three open seats on the Argyle Town Council:

T

he Town of Argyle is led by a 5-member council and a mayor as well as various

boards and commissions.

Election Day for municipal offices is May 7 with

early voting from April 25 to May 3.

Hasty, Lamon and Hawkesworth are already

serving in the positions they are running for. The term for these offices is May 2016 - May 2018.

Hasty was first elected in 2008. He is a pilot

with Delta Air Lines. Hasty graduated from Nolan Catholic High School in 1994.

Hasty originally ran to balance growth and how

to keep Argyle a rural community.

24 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

by Sarah Bays

Place 1: Joey Hasty Place 3: Eric Lamon Place 5: Marla Hawkesworth

Lamon is an engineer who built a large family business. He was first elected to office in May 2014.

He is married to Cheryl, and has three sons: Brock, Mack and Mitchell.

Hawkesworth is originally from Arlington. She is married to Craig Hawkesworth. She is a partner at a commercial/residential flooring company.

She studied interior design at the University of Texas. She was first elected to office in May 2013 with a win over John Tutini.

You can view her YouTube video from her 2014 campaign at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hSFFsjBQ_sY Major issues surrounding the town include development and land ownership. The town

has a comprehensive plan that seeks to align commercial and residential growth with the needs of current residents.

Added to that, Argyle lawmakers must ensure that sufficient infrastructure is in place to support that growth. This includes road maintenance and local taxes.

Current development projects include Canyon Falls and Canyon Falls II. Canyon Falls is a master planned community located in the Towns of Flower Mound and Northlake and the Town of Argyle Extra-territorial Jurisdiction comprising approximately 1,242 acres. Canyon Falls II is a 126-acre portion of the 1,242-acre Canyon Falls Master Planned Community located within the Town of Argyle fronting I 35W. The community includes a mixed use of approximately 55 acres of mixed residential, 41 acres of commercial, and 10 acres of open space/park land.

Additionally, the town council recently adopted a hands-free law, which prohibits motorists in town from using electronic hand-held devices while driving.

Major schools in Argyle include the Argyle Independent School District -- Argyle High, Argyle Middle, Argyle Intermediate and Hilltop Elementary -- and Liberty Christian School.

For more information, visit argyletx.com/town/elections.html

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 25

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY

photo courtesy of Argyle Eagles Sports Facebook page

2016 Liberty Christian School

Argyle high school &

by Steve Gamel

during the annual recruitment ceremony on February 3, which is the first day a high school

senior can sign a binding national letter of intent for college football. While the day is marked

in the media as a football-heavy signing day, athletes in other sports take part.

That was certainly true at

Liberty Christian. The Warriors

had five girls soccer players sign on the dotted line, a list highlighted by twin sisters Addison and

Dakota Milner, who have the

with Oklahoma Christian. Liberty Christian’s football signing class was led by quarterback

Nick Starkel, who inked a deal with Texas A&M. Argyle had seven signings – all football. Tight

end J.C. Chalk signed with Clemson while the duo of David Bearden and Ty Smith signed what the Air Force Academy calls certificates of intent. There was also one who went the Ivy

League route as do-it-all receiver Drew Estrada signed with Dartmouth.

26 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

“I’d be remiss if I didn’t say I will miss them

all, but I’m excited they have made a name for

themselves and have this opportunity,” he said.

“This is a chance to see them make their own impression, and it will be fun to see and hear from them as they experience new things.”

The two biggest signings of the day were

Argyle’s Chalk and Liberty Christian’s Starkel.

Chalk had been committed to Clemson since

he was a sophomore. He played in three state title games during his high school

“Every one of these athletes picked a school that fits them to a T both academically and athletically.”

chance to continue their careers

Football:

signing day is always a special day for any athlete.

ARGYLE

The schools combined to recognize 15 athletes

Argyle football coach Todd Rodgers said that

career, winning one, and finished his senior year with 547 receiving Starkel signed with Texas A&M

after

from

originally

de-committing

Oklahoma

State

in

December. He threw for 3,091

yards and 29 touchdowns as a senior and also

made a name for himself when he finished as a finalist at the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback competition last summer.

“Every one of these athletes picked a school

that fits them to a T both academically and athletically,” Rodgers said of his signees. “They

proactively found environments that play to their strengths.”

To the right is the complete list of signings,

per school.

J.C. Chalk, Clemson Ty Smith, Air Force David Bearden, Air Force Drew Estrada, Dartmouth Taylor Sweatt, Truman Gage McCook, Harding Hudson Speed, Hardin-Simmons

Football:

yards and seven touchdowns.

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

A

rgyle and Liberty Christian held their respective National Signing Day ceremonies earlier this month, and given the large number of athletes who took part, it’s no wonder why both are seen as athletic powerhouses.

Nick Starkel, Texas A&M Justus Lee, Arizona (preferred walk-on) Garrett Johnson, Howard Payne

Soccer: Rachel Beierman, Oklahoma Baptist Reagan Mann, Oklahoma Baptist Dani Maniguet, Oklahoma Christian Addison Milner, Oklahoma Christian Dakota Milner, Oklahoma Christian

Horse Owners Workshop Coming Up Argyle Feed & Hardware is hosting a

horse owners workshop on February 25. A

representative from Purina Animal Nutrition will talk about “Evaluating your horse’s nutrition

program and weight management” and will be

Rayzor Seeks To Fill Officer Spots E.P. Rayzor Elementary needs to fill a few

positions for the 2016-2017 school year. They

are: vice president of programs; treasurer; and secretary. For more information, contact

there to answer all your horse questions.

the nominating committee: Jennifer Pender

raffle prizes, frequent buyer cards, BOGO Purina

(terriaugustyn@icloud.com) and Andrea Delano

The class starts at 6 p.m. and will also include

feed coupons when you bring a friend and a $200 Ariat gift card. RSVP at http://bit.ly/1P1IAiU.

Robson Ranch Kiwanis Members Help Restore Denton Park Kiwanis Club members from Robson Ranch

helped out Denton’s Department of Parks and

Recreation renovate Eureka Park late last year.

The group built ramps for the disabled to allow

easy access to their homes. We just repurposed

(jenpender24@gmail.com),

Terry

Augustyn

(secretary@eprayzorpta.org).

Daddy Daughter Dance Tickets On Sale Tickets are now on sale for the Annual

Daddy Daughter Dance, which will be held from 6-9 p.m. on February 20. This year’s theme

is Hollywood red carpet. The dance is open to grades Pre-K through 6. Tickets cost $35 per couple and $10 for each additional child.

the tools. The team included Jerry Waynant, Bill

Wright, John Chorba, Lee Cash, Bruce Walker, Doug Williams, Larry Brown, Dave Everly, Bill

Rauhauser, Jim Ryerson, Gary and Doris Koenig, Kiwanis of Robson Ranch President Barbara

Leurig, Alice Wright and Susan Galbraith.

Kiwanis at Robson Ranch is involved in multiple

events throughout the year providing community outreach, especially projects benefiting kids.

Aumc Offering Finance Class A Financial Peace University class begins

February 21 at Argyle United Methodist Church.

The class is based on the methods of Dave

Ramsey. It starts at 5 p.m. and a membership

kit will be available there for $90. Childcare is also available upon request by emailing Dawn@

ArgyleUMC.org. To register visit http://www. daveramsey.com/fpu/locations/class/1013942.

Argyle High Gets Grant Argyle High School received a $500 grant

from Lone Star Country Store and Exxon Mobile Corp. recently.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 27

Student Drivers

Less Distracted Behind the

Wheel

by Sarah Bays

That means it’s now illegal for anyone to use a

handheld electronic device, like a cell phone or GPS, while driving through town.

And my, are those speed limits fast!

Although

the

town

council

law until May 1.

“The council wants Argyle to continue to be one

of the safest towns in Texas,” said Mayor Peggy

Kreuger. “We have two high schools that have young drivers and we feel that we

to make the drivers of Argyle as If you get pulled over for

T

unanimously

will not issue tickets for violating the new

safe as possible.”

he Town of Argyle has aligned itself with much of Denton County as a new hands-free law came into effect toward the middle of last month.

Kreuger said. “We felt that we can never

approved this rule back in November, police

need to do everything possible

breaking this hands-free law

you’ll face a fine that can be up to $200 per offense.

So what can you be cited

for? Well, just about anything

that involves a cell phone — speaking,

texting,

taking

/

“We have observed many drivers that seem

to be busy with their phones instead of driving,” be too safe!”

Distracted driving is a problem anywhere, but it’s

especially dangerous around schools. Argyle High

School is right off a very fast-moving Hwy. 377.

Parents, along with student drivers and bus drivers, must pull into the campus, which is somewhat hidden from the highway.

Telena

Wright, superintendent

what can you be cited for? “...speaking, texting, taking / viewing photos, playing that new iTunes song, reading email or Tweeting, to name a few...,” said Mayor Peggy Kreuger

viewing photos, playing that

of

Argyle

ISD, appreciates the law and how it will impact the

area

schools,

such

as Argyle High.

“Whether a student, parent

or staff member is driving on a school campus or in close proximity to a campus, focus

on the driving task is vital,” she said. “Being hands free increases focus on driving.

“In

AISD

safety

new iTunes song, reading email or Tweeting,

and security are paramount. I believe that

car within a traffic lane or while it’s moving on

much as possible.”

to name a few — as long as you’re driving a a public road.

driving distractions need to be eliminated as In fact, traffic is already an issue around AISD.

“Traffic in our parking lots and in the streets coming

into our school campuses can be very congested

and backed up at times,” said Paul Cairney, chief of the AISD police. “We have pedestrians of all ages

— young children through high schoolers — and

drivers need to be on the lookout for them as they are transiting school grounds.

Argyle ISD has signs posted advising that the

campus property is a hands-free environment.

“It’s very difficult to enforce if it’s still allowable

in town. Now, hopefully that hands-free is required in the entire town, Argyle ISD won’t have so much trouble enforcing it on campus”

Cairney said there haven’t been any accidents or

incidents that were related to using a cell or other electronic device while driving.

“For what it’s worth, it really isn’t the

students’

driving

which

concerns

me,”

he

said. “The parents, in my opinion, are the bigger violators. Seriously.”

If you use a Bluetooth hookup or earbuds you can

still use your phone to talk or text, but you need to keep your hands from the phone. You won’t get a ticket for these things and you’ll be a lot safer.

Also, using the vehicle’s built-in navigation

system is OK. Making an emergency phone call is 28 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

also permitted under this law.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 29

What locals may not know is that the company

Toyota RETREAT

Center Coming To

denton county

by Sarah Bays

is also moving itself into a narrow swath of

of her neighbors said they would rather see

Hickory Hill Road on the north, FM 407 to the

housing development.

unincorporated Denton County bordered by E. south, Whitmore Road to the east and FM 1830

M

100-acre spread bringing between 4,000 and 5,000 jobs to the area.

“We are growing so fast and our schools and

roads are very crowded,” she said. “Traffic and car

complex to serve as a retreat center at this

exponentially over the past few years. Also, if

The company plans to shoehorn a corporate

location, very close to Argyle and Lantana

borders. Right now, according to Zillow.com,

the land is now home to a 7-bedroom, 10.5 bath, 12,205-square-foot house on 50 acres.

“The area was chosen because of its proximity

to our new Plano offices,” said Aaron Fowles, spokesman for Toyota North America. “It is in a country/secluded area.”

The property, on Hilltop Road, also includes

3-bedroom

guest

house, a manager’s home, a show horse barn and additional barn, a round pen and

accidents on 377 and even 1830 have increased they are considering erecting a sound wall it does make me curious as to how loud it will actually

be. We live just a mile or so from there as the crow flies so if it sounds like the speedway at 10

p.m. then I’m sure there will be lots of people not too happy about that.

“Another residential development with a

‘from the 200s’ sign out front would be most unwelcome but a corporate retreat center sounds

okay for the most

“...neighbors said they would rather see this retreat center move in than another housing development.”

a 20-acre hay pasture.

There is also a large Kiser riding arena, stocked

lakes, a professional zip line, a tree house and a trolley car.

“The property will keel many of the existing

structures, and is being improved to include

some additional lodging, horses and other farm animals, a fishing pond, a museum garage, a

part. Though I’m sure once those corporate folks figure out what

a nice little town we have they might decide they want to

move here too: so once again an impact on our growth and schools.”

Events held at the Toyota property will be

enclosed within it, Fowles said. There will be a permanent caretaker living on site for upkeep and security.

“We don’t anticipate any significant increase

vehicle check course and a Japanese-inspired

in traffic to the area,” he said. “When holding

Although unable to disclose the cost of the

to local suppliers (event planners, caterers,

garden,” Fowles said.

project, Fowles said it should be complete by early 2017.

30 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

this retreat center move in than another

to the west.

a saltwater pool, a

ost of us know that Toyota is moving into Plano with a

Argyle resident Sarah Davee and some

an event at the property, we would look

etc.) as our first choice if those services are necessary.

Body and Soul

Striving 2 Share

For the love, exercise

I

by Meredith S. Tittle PT, DPT, OCS

S2S, stands for Sole to Soul because everyday, I experience the intricate science of how our minds and bodies interact.

became a physical therapist because it enables

What can I do to prevent this downward spiral?

while providing care to those with pain, injuries

nowhere to go, these chemicals are wreaking havoc

me to develop rich relationships with others

and trauma. A close connection with someone can really improve your ability to heal. Often, I feel these friendships benefit me more than the patient!”

Stress affects our health.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), 70 percent of Americans experience stress daily.

When our bodies sense stress, the brain releases chemicals into our bloodstream in order to help

Heather Davies, MA, LPC, explains: “With

in terms of the physical manifestations of anxiety.

In order to dissipate these chemicals, exercise is

needed!” Unfortunately, only 14 percent of people make use of regular exercise to cope with stress.

Every day we are faced with challenges that keep

us from feeling like our best selves. My husband

can always tell when it’s happening to me. “For the

love,” he will say, “exercise.” It assists me in turning my distress into eustress.

It only takes about 45 minutes, three days a week,

us fight potential threats. When our bodies don’t

for exercise to help us reduce stress, improving our

burn them off, many problems can occur: tense

of pushing ourselves physically to distract ourselves

muscles, back pain, diarrhea or constipation, headaches and acne.

mood and our sleep. Even that small commitment

from emotional stress can be a powerful drug – no insurance, no harmful side effects.

Studies prove that exercise and movement in general aid in reducing muscle tension, assist our digestive systems to function properly, encourage better sleep and improve overall health.

As a physical therapist, I have a strong desire to heal and nurture. My hope is that at S2S Functional Performance, we are helping our community heal not only physically, but emotionally as well. Most importantly, we care about your passion and want to help you discover what type of exercise provides you the best endorphin relief !

“Train to Live Healthy, Energetic, and Injury Free.”

– Meredith S. Tittle PT, DPT, OCS www.s2sperform.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/s2sperform I Instagram @ s2sperform I Twitter @s2sperform

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 31

Gardening

E

Warmer Weather and the Outdoor Experience

veryone’s asking if we are even going to have a winter this year or not … it’s beautiful out, who cares? With the weather we are having now just get out there and enjoy!

Such a mild season is great for getting extended use out of your patio and outdoor living spaces so don’t put the furniture away just yet. If you have get it back out and sit down these 40-60-degree scenarios are perfect for hanging out around the fire pit.

So many times we put off our patio, remodels or simple upgrades until the weather warms up, but with weather like this why wait until everyone is busy and contractors are going crazy? Think about getting ahead of the crowd and high seasonal prices by starting now. Here are some things to get your brain turning in the right direction: Lighting is one of the quickest ways to gain square footage, and when done right can highlight prized landscapes, trees and backyard features while not digging too deep into your wallet. Sure you definitely get what you pay for on the hardware itself, but with most of the industry going to a low

32 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

voltage system you can save a ton by doing some reading and taking on the install on your own.

Depending on the amount of lights, you’re only talking about needing a few wire nuts, the lighting kit itself, a shovel and a good eye for placement.

Grill islands and bar tops create a finished and usable area whether your cooking or just hanging out. Most of the time we will widen the back splash so that it serves as a place to sit and chat or kick back and watch the game. Having a duel purpose area not only saves you money but also floor space. Keeping with a stone that matches the home or will at least accent the tones will really finish you space off nicely.

Concrete/stone seat walls are another way to get some fixed vertical character into your space. It always depends on materials, but typically they will be cheaper than patio furniture and accommodate more people than individual chairs would when working with limited square footage.

The seat wall will also define or finish the patio space versus just having all your edges open.

Fire pits and fireplaces are hands down some of the best options when it comes to wanting to add a destination to your outdoor space. Budget and space will steer you in the direction you need to go, but when wanting to create a place people will look forward to gathering around, you cant go wrong with either.

by PJ Kratohvil Complete Solutions 214.735.1364

VI

ZIN

photos courtesy by Heather Patterson

M AG A

NG

E’

S

LI

EN

HeathernPatterson.com

T

ARGY LE

R’S O IT K ED PIC 2016

RE C

Debut Author Shares Story Of

Presidential Dog

B

by Sarah Bays

o Obama is a Portuguese water dog, with curly, fluffy, black hair and a happy face. When he leaves the White House with President Barack Obama and his family early next year, he just might hide a parting gift for his canine successor.

Heather Patterson, a Kindergarten teacher at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, has taken up Bo’s story, showcasing former presidential pups in her first published book, Passing the Bone: America’s Next POTUS. “I wanted to write a book during the election season that is specifically for children,” Patterson said. “Our nation is consumed with campaign trails, election coverage and the upcoming change of office. I want to draw children in and include them in the process by engaging them at their level and appealing to their interests. Any presidential election is exciting and historic!”

Throughout her illustrated children’s book, Patterson uses Bo to introduce kids to the office and responsibilities of the president and the First Dog. Bo shares the do’s and don’ts of America’s

First Pup as he prepares to pass the bone on to the next canine entering the White House.

For Patterson, penning a light-hearted book was just what she needed to relax while working on another project.

“I first began writing in 2013, about former presidents George W. Bush and his father, George H. W. Bush,” she said. “I started writing Passing the Bone: America’s Next POTUS in September 2015. I actually had writer’s block from by Bush manuscript.

I decided to take a break and write something light and humorous. I opened a separate blank document and the words just started to flow.”

Patterson’s work as a teacher gives her a firsthand understanding of what children need and how they can connect with world events on a smaller stage.

IP

I

“I read multiple picture books every day to my class, which give me an inside perspective to what children find engaging, funny, interesting or flat. I was blessed to use these background experiences to help mold my story as I wrote and revised.”

Giving kids a way to be a part of what’s happening in our nation is not a simple task.

Patterson said it all comes down to showing them that they matter.

“The key to exciting children about a presidential election is teaching them they have an important role in our nation,” she said.

Their passions matter.

They way they treat others matters.

Their character matters.

Their interests matter.

Children are young, but they are capable of being good citizens.

“They have the privilege of being born in a free country, where one day they can vote and take part in electing a president. And of course, children can get excited about the new presidential pup that will be moving into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue!”

In Passing the Bone, Bo takes children through the White House, showing them portraits of former pups like Barney and Miss Beazley, President George W. Bush’s dogs. He also introduces kids to the previous 4 presidents.

“The reception has been very positive,” Patterson said. “I’m excited and very grateful for the opportunity to share Passing the Bone with children of multiple communities! Surprisingly, many adults have come to me with his much they learned from the book. To me, that’s what it is all about — providing something for the community that children and parents can enjoy and learn from together.”

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 33

34 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

Sidelines

See You On The Sidelines

Top 5 reasons to love sports even more in the spring

S

omeone came up to me recently while I was covering a soccer match and asked, “Why aren’t you at one of the local basketball games?”

My simple answer was, “Well, basketball isn’t the only show in town.”

We had a good laugh, mainly because it was so very true. Before that soccer game had started, and before either team made it onto the pitch for warmups, there were several athletes off in the corner of the stadium wrapping up track practice. On the other side of the field, two kids were playing catch with a baseball.

It is a sign of a busy spring beginning to ramp up. Of course, then I was asked, “How do you keep up?”

That question was a little harder to answer – I’ve been trying to figure that one out for nearly 20 years. Unlike the fall when my schedule is very routine between football and volleyball, there is so much more to keep up with during

the spring. I find myself everywhere covering games, and there’s something different to talk about every time I sit down to write a game story.

Regardless of how busy it is, it will be a fun second half of the school year. So with that being said, here are my Top 5 reasons to love high school sports even more in the spring.

A cornucopia of games – As I

alluded to earlier, the spring is chock full of sports to choose from. I like to say there are so many games going on that it’s difficult to find yourself getting into a routine – and that’s a great feeling.

We start with basketball, but before you know it, soccer is in the mix ... then playoff basketball ...

by Steve Gamel

then baseball and softball, then playoff soccer.

And don’t forget about track and field. Before you know it, we’re nearing the beginning of June and it’s the state baseball tournament.

National Signing Day – National Signing Day will already be behind us by the time this column goes to print. But I consider this one of the highlights of the spring because it’s a chance to see all the athletes I have watched for so long realize their dreams of playing collegiate sports. And as I’m sure you are aware, this area is riddled with talent. Argyle High School had a host of athletes sign, including Clemson commit J.C. Chalk. Liberty Christian’s signing class was led by Texas A&M signee Nick Starkel.

“spring is chock full of sports”

Women’s basketball – When you are talking about high school basketball, you’re supposed to technically refer to them as girls.

But these are women ... and they are amazingly talented. I joked last year that Argyle was Title Town after both Argyle and Liberty Christian won state titles in basketball. Vivian Gray is an absolute pleasure to watch – and she’s only a junior. Liberty Christian is saddled with a senior foursome led by twin sisters Rebekah and Hannah Hand and fellow senior Sydney Goodson. Both teams are primed to win state titles again this year.

Argyle High School baseball – Speaking of state titles, Argyle’s baseball team won its first crown last year. The Eagles are loaded for 2016 – and there are more stud athletes on the way at the lower levels – and I would personally be shocked if they aren’t in the mix for more titles over the next few years.

Football is right around the corner – I mentioned all the sports that are going on at the same time, so it should be no surprise that the area football teams – including Argyle and Liberty Christian – will be gearing up for spring practices before you know it. Football in Argyle only ended in December, and now it’s about to start up again. You really can’t beat that.

Until next time, I’ll see you on the sidelines.

FEBRUARY 2016 | ARGYLE LIVING | 35

Liberty Christian Unveils School Upgrades Liberty Christian School celebrated the official

opening of its newly reconstructed campus on

January 16. Through donations from school families, alumni and parents of alumni, Liberty now has a new two-story Upper School, a new library, seven more classrooms for Lower School and Early Childhood Education.

The work also includes an outdoor learning

plaza, a new LC Shoppe for student uniforms

and spirit wear and a new Lower School

cafeteria and gym.

Ahs Students Win At Uil In Flower Mound Some students from Argyle High School won

sweepstakes at the Flower Mound High School UIL A Invitational 2016. Here are the winners: Computer Applications: Raquel Barton 1st place; Marc Barton 2nd place

Computer Science: Justin Clark 3rd place

Literary Criticism: Carleigh Klusman 3rd place Headline Writing: Caleb Miles 4th place News Writing: Annabel Thorpe 4th place

Editorial Writing: Heather Lindemann 4th place Feature Writing: Heather Lindemann 5th place Calculator Applications: 1st place Team 686:

Sarah Llewellyn 1st place; Travis Koczo 3rd place; Shashwat Tripathi 6th place

Mathematics: Justin Clark 6th place Number Sense: 2nd place team: Justin Clark 2nd place;

Matthew Castle 6th place

Science: Andrew Hennes 1st place Biology

All-State Band Includes 9 Argyle isd Students Nine Argyle ISD students earned a spot in

the Texas All-State Band recently. They are: Chloe Livingston; Audrey Livingston; Gabriela

Cate; Madalyn Williams; Emma Webb; Sierra

Albanesi; Haley Emerson; Zach McKellar and Zach Schermerhorn.

36 | ARGYLE LIVING | FEBRUARY 2016

Lcs, Unt Prep Seniors For College Liberty

Christian’s

Academic

Advising

Liberty Christian School Press Release

Department with UNT, sponsored a special “Paying for College” seminar for parents of seniors. UNT representatives Diane Charles and Tonya Glenn provided an overview of grants, loans, scholarships and financial aid, and how these all play a part in paying for college.

On January 1, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened for parents of seniors each year. King said holding this meeting back on

Liberty Christian’s Ribbon Cutting Honors God, Liberty’s Past, and Liberty’s Future

Pictured: Co-Founders Rodney and Judy Haire cut the ribbon and unveil new additions to Liberty Christian School

(Photo Credit John Elsey Photography)

Dec. 2 was very timely for parents of seniors who are preparing to fill out the FAFSA, as well as College Board’s College Scholarship Service (CSS) Financial Aid Profile.

Liberty Christian School Welcomes Families

from the Surrounding Communities for its Spring

Black Diamond Affair Gala Coming In April

Preview Day on Wednesday, Feb. 17

Pictured: Middle School girls display their artwork from class

The Argyle Education Foundation’s Black Diamond Affair Gala will be held on April 16, at Circle R Ranch so mark your calendars. More information will be coming soon with details about how you can participate and help with the district-wide

fundraiser.

Email

information@

SupportArgyleISD.org for the latest.

Liberty Christian Charnival Provides Fun for Kids and Funding for Charities

Toddler enjoys getting her face painted at Charnival booth

Basketball Tourney Honoring Late Student Scheduled For May Argyle

ISD

has

scheduled

its

Annual

Shoot for the Stars community event and basketball tournament will be held on May 14 at Argyle High School.

Liberty Christian Lower School Students Raise the Bar at Spelling Bee

Pictured: Teacher Karina Smith pictured with Lower School spelling bee participant

The event is held in honor of Alex Betzhold, a seventh-grader who died in his sleep in January 2012 at the age of 13 due to an undiagnosed heart condition.

Find out more about donating, volunteering or being a vendor by contacting Pam Arrington at parrington@argyleisd.com or at

http://www.shoot4stars.org.

Largest Turnout Ever at Liberty Christian’s

Dodgeball Tournament Sponsored by Liberty Christian’s Baseball Team

Pictured: Lower School’s winning team

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w

er

Sh

ot

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Land & Lots

Available

Address

Homes Sold in AISD (Last 6 Months) Address

Sq Ft Total

Beds

Bath

Acres

Current Price

Acres

Price

5355 Country Club Lot R 6.670

$450,00

Lot 15 Prairie View Ct

2.500

$175,000

4517 Shagbark Drive

1,737

3

2/0

0.150

$185,000

5355 Country Club Road

4,184

5

3/0

8.670

$665,000

Lot 20 Prairie View Ct

2.500

$175,000

302 Chisholm Trail

3,055

4

3/1

0.230

$265,000

2452 Hamilton Drive

2,756

4

3/0

1.380

$352,000

Lot 35 Johns Well Court 2.500

$225,000

4604 Argyle Lane

12,608

4

2/1

1.033

$413,000

Lot 21 Johns Well Court 2.500

$225,000

4704 Argyle Lane

13,887

5

4/1

1/033

$547,000

960 Noble Champions Way

5,475

4

4/2

3.172

$1,200,000

00000 Britt

1.000

$149,000

3221 Stonecrop Trail

1,872

3

2/0

0.144

$193,000

Lot 3 Hilltop Rd

1.100

$169,000

4521 Remuda Lane

1,872

3

2/0

0.144

$200,000

3113 Buckthorn Lane

1,737

3

2/0

0.143

$290,000

568 Seals Road

5.000

$300,000

3305 Hornbeam Street

2,685

4

3/0

0.138

$253,000

6325 Faught Road

1,833

3

2/0

5.000

$377,500

4990 Kiowa Trail

3,262

3

2/1

1.626

$395,000

320 Ellison Trace

3,689

4

4/1

0.180

$505,000

3229 Club View Drive

3,326

4

3/2

N/A

$565,000

328 Creekside Trail

2,483

4

3/1

0.232

$269,000

1521 Tiff Circle

1,883

3

2/0

1.040

$295,000

Residential Lots Sold in AISD (Last 6 Months) Address

Acres

Current Price

1001 Fincher Road

1.000

$160,000

1005 Fincher Road

1.000

$165,000

00 Killdeer Trail

11.958

$359,000

670 Badminton Drive

2.953

$330,000

Lot 9 Hickory Ridge Court

5.000

$405,000

500 Gibbons

8.790

$535,000

6575 Faught Road

5.001

$237,500

310 Oak Drive

0.459

$65,000

13043 Gold Hill Road

2.124

$174,500

1317 Saddlebrook Court

3.202

$187,500

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Lease Properties Available Address

Acres

Current Price

4508 Merlot Drive

2,251

$1,550

4600 Merlot Drive

1,957

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500 Catherine Lane

2,462

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5700 Creekway Drive

2,224

$1,850

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3,218

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2,617

$2,600

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3,405

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